The Man in the High Castle

Discussion in 'Books and Films' started by TheApollonian, Aug 30, 2015.

  1. TheApollonian

    TheApollonian Deus Ex Machina

    There's a new series on Amazon based on the science-fiction Dystopian alternate universe novel of Philip K. Dick called "The Man in the High Castle". It's an earth where the Axis powers win during WWII and what happens 15 years after when Japan and Germany rule over what was the United States.

    I've only watched episode 1 but I already like the realism of it. The story is pretty good if not controversial. What do you guys think? Have you read the book?
     
  2. Interrogator#6

    Interrogator#6 Active Member

    Apollo... (may I call you Apollo?), I read "Man in the High Tower" many years ago, 30-35 years. I enjoyed it. I thought it thoroughly entertaining bit of speculative FICTION. It was fiction and therefore not bound to Historic Accuracy. It was not historically accurate nor real. Likewise neither are the works of Harry Turtledove.

    You say you have watched an episode of some sort of production? Where might this production be found and what might its title be, as I would like to also watch it.

    I wonder if you use the term "realism" to discuss the cinemagraphic production quality. Easily made mistake. I have seen several movies regarding the epic battle of Stalingrad (WWII). These movies are of various qualities. Perhaps you saw an American production entitled "Enemy at the Gates" based on a book called "War of the Rats" (not the book called Enemy at the Gates). It was a high quality production which tried to emerce the viewer in the battle.

    The was a German production entitled "Stalingrad" which was earlier than "Rats", err "Enemy...". This film was equally well done.

    Then there was a French production. It also was focused on the snipers of Stalingrad. Alas the director, the producter, the art direction, and casting, et cetera were failed attempts, so bad I think I stopped watching half-way through. The actors looked too clean all the time, too french (not Slavic or German). Where was the MUD, the RUINs, the weather, the explosions, and the horror of war. And halfway through the story the hero and heroine manage to sneak off to what appeared to be a french chateau in the quiet sunny grassy countryside, with songbirds and clean sheets. That may have been added for French audiences but.....
     
  3. GearZ

    GearZ Member

    I read Man in the High Tower a long time ago. As a work of fiction, it was pretty fun. I didn't care for the overly mystical aspects of it. And, frankly, the alternative history was more than far fetched. Other authors have created more plausible scenarios. Still, it was a good read and I recommend it as an early, and enjoyable, example of alternative history.

    I wasn't aware they create a television series based upon said. I'll have to check it out. Thanks.
     
  4. TheApollonian

    TheApollonian Deus Ex Machina


    It's pretty good if you can stand the sight of Nazi symbols everywhere. I think Amazon risked a lot with this production, it might pay off in the long run though as it's been getting good reviews.
     
  5. GearZ

    GearZ Member

    I just watched the trailer on Business Insider and it is pretty powerful. Apparently Ridley Scott is behind the film and his credits are the stuff of legends (e.g., Aliens, Blade Runner, etc.). Anyway, it can be seen here.
     
  6. GearZ

    GearZ Member

    Well, I managed to watch both episodes ("Pilot", "Sunrise") and I must say it was pretty darn good. It is, more or less, true to the original book. The cityscapes that Scott created are amazing. The acting is pretty solid and the overall vibe is simultaneously familiar and yet surreal. I look forward to the next installment.
     
  7. TheApollonian

    TheApollonian Deus Ex Machina

    Good to hear it's great to see another fan. Ridley Scott like many other directors before him have a lot of hits and misses when it comes to producing new risky films. It's just too bad that Business Insider had to be a miss.
     
  8. GearZ

    GearZ Member

    I just finished watching all ten episodes and I must say I enjoyed it thoroughly. The cinematography was great, the alternative history was a real treat for us fans of said, and the acting was, generally, good. The series did diverge pretty royally from the original book and at least one of the characters was pretty annoying. However, all and all, I'd recommend it.
     
  9. djordjem87

    djordjem87 New Member

    I can't wait to start watching this show. it sound like something i like and i will enjoy. SF stuff and fantasies are my cup of tea and i have high hopes about this show. Right now i have several shows on my list and i will have to finish one to fit this one on the list or ai will not have time to work :). So, from what i heard the pilot was interesting and it already has 10 episodes. My friend is watching and he thinks it quite good. I didn't ask if there is a trace of some futuristic SF stuff. I hope there is.
     
  10. GearZ

    GearZ Member

    The tenth episode is the final one. It is a mini-series, so after that, there won't be any more. At least, as far as I know.
     
  11. GearZ

    GearZ Member

    Well, I stand corrected, sort of. There wasn't, from what I read, any plans for a second season, but considering the great reviews, they are producing another season. I can't wait. :D
     
  12. GearZ

    GearZ Member

    Does anyone know when the second season will begin? I've been googling it tonight, but can't find anything solid. And, yes, I'm itching to see more. :D
     

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