I don’t know about you, but I enjoyed the early 2000s TV show, Alias, starring Jennifer Garner. And I’ve been missing it ever since – I mean, what actor since has shown such facility for multiple identities and costume changes? I have found the answer: Tatiana Maslany, the star of Orphan Black. Maslany plays Sarah, a woman thrown into the midst of a bizarre conspiracy, and who, despite battling her own demons, finds herself having to take on the trials and hang-ups of many other characters as well. But in recompense, she is privileged (and sometimes haunted) by the unique answers to “what ifs” that we all must ponder when faced with a fork in the road. Sarah learns that even though the grass may be greener, it always comes at the price of toil and exclusion.
Although the show is dark, it is continually brightened by humor, especially on the part of Sarah’s foster brother, Felix, who keeps Sarah sane and the show feeling fresh. The plot has plenty of twists to keep you guessing, and even when you anticipate a turn it’s with a satisfied “I knew it!” Maslany’s extraordinary versatility drives the show forward, but the whole cast is quality. Although I miss the more light-hearted Alias, I’m enjoying its murkier cousin, Orphan Black.