Westworld

[BeelzeBob]

Kinda surprised not to see a Westworld thread started on here. I think the writers have done an outstanding job with this HBO series. Admittedly, the nonlinear narrative can be difficult to follow at times. It's a demanding show that requires commitment on the part of the viewer, as every episode is absolutely crucial to future events. But I love how it touches on all things ontological. It definitely leaves the viewer wondering the depths of their own real life programming, be it biological, cultural, so on and so forth. A philosophical Anthony Hopkins in season 1 is not to be missed!

[dr. locrian]

100%

[marioneta]

I followed the first season religiously, however I have not been up to a commitment to follow the second season. It is a demanding series for the viewer, no cheap entertainment here. I did like the philosophical reference to Julian Haynes theory of the bicameral mind. The series is deeper than the flash bang of its trailers. To repeat: it demands a lot from the viewer and it's unconventional looping time lines are very challenging. I think I'll wait for the DVD. However I have a son who is a loya,fanatical viewer and he fills me in every now and then.
By the way, Anthony Hopkins was amazing in season one.

[Zaharoff]

I have not started this.
I prefer series that conclude with one season, rather than open ended soapers that tend to march on and on.
Have producers indicated how long Westworld will go?
Don't get me wrong, the show intrigues me, but I dislike committing to a series that builds an arc, then gets cancelled midway.
Like what just almost happened with The Expanse.

[Gnosticangel]

Re. "I prefer series that conclude with one season, rather than open ended soapers that tend to march on and on. Don't get me wrong, the show intrigues me, but I dislike committing to a series that builds an arc, then gets cancelled midway."

I agree re. concerns for the open-ended soapers, and have heard various reports of 3 years and 5 years for Westworld. But in terms of being cancelled midway, that is very unlikely with this highly-regarded show.

Personal opinion - I have found that it does really live up to its hype in terms of acting, directing and production values. It also raises intriguing questions about consciousness.

Some people dislike the unreliable narration, but that is a quality that I have grown to appreciate throughout literature and film.

[marioneta]

Some of you have hit on what is my concern with Westworld, that it will go on and on like Game of Thrones, which is tiresome. Recently the series The Terror ended and its finality was well paced and satisfying. It doesn't need a second season, which I hope will be the case, but money talks, not art. I fear that Westworld will go on and on as long as the money flows. This doesn't take away from the issues it raises such as "What is consciousness?" or the nature of a sentient AI.

Game of Thrones ran out of steam once the writers stopped following the books and is a moronic mess now, albeit a well made one. The disparity between the strength of the production and the weakness of the writing is really something. See also: The Walking Dead. Such shows are the junk food of the 'golden age of television', while great shows like The Leftovers and Hannibal amble to cancellation.

Still not checked out Westworld. Will do. Right now I'm enjoying The Handmaid's Tale.

[BeelzeBob]