Creator: David Guggenheim
Cast: Kiefer Sutherland, Natascha McElhone, Adan Canto, Italia Ricci, LaMonica Garrett
Rating: 12
Running Time: 887 mins
DVD Release: 25th September
After a devastating terrorist attack wipes out almost all of US Congress, the ‘designated survivor’, 11th in line to the presidency is hoisted into the spotlight and must now guide a country in turmoil.
Designated Survivor is full of dramatic twists and turns with the very first episode full of chaos and confusion. As the series progresses, you find out more and more about the motive of those responsible for the Capitol bombing. It’s full of enough twists and cliffhangers to keep you gripped and interested in the story.
The series splits into two avenues; the new President Kirkman (Kiefer Sutherland) trying to find his feet and gain control of a nation is chaos, and the FBI investigating the terrorist attack and chasing down those responsible.
President Kirkman’s journey of course is the main focus of the series, with he and his staff tackling hurdles from the press, public and politicians. A former housing minister, he is immediately treated with skepticism and considered out of his depth in his new role. The independent politician has to use his own moral code to bring the country back from the brink. However, the tenacious Agent Wells’ (Maggie Q) side of the story is far more interesting. She is by far the most intriguing character in the series.
Designated Survivor is by no means another House of Cards, but it is entertaining and, at some points gripping. Unlike a lot of series, there are no episodes that feel redundant or pointless. Every episode furthers the plot a little more, and there is a revelation every step of the way. The performances are all passable, with Kiefer Sutherland portraying the shocked new president very well. No one in the entire cast lets this series down, meaning every episode is entertaining and well thought out.
Overall, Designated Survivor is a decent series full of twists and turns to keep you entertained. The first season ends on a high note that will leave you eagerly waiting on the next episodes.
Designated Survivor season 1 is released on DVD on 25th September.Â
