By Daily,Editor
Copyright dailymail
Post-apocalyptic martial arts-fuelled fantasy
Year: 2015-2019
Certificate: 15
This post-apocalyptic fantasy, which began in 2015, flew under the radar somewhat, but those in the know have long sung its praises. It’s Mad Max meets Shogun Assassin or Kill Bill, variously described by critics as ‘a high-octane sci-fi martial arts series’ and ‘grindhouse meets arthouse’. Its violent, stylistically extravagant merits won’t be for everyone, but if you’re in the mood for a truly original slice of dystopian escapism, there’s three series to enjoy.
It’s set in a future America that, post-war and catastrophe, has settled into feudal rule. Seven different barons rule over land and resources such as fuel and opium, operating with slaves known as cogs, as well as a warrior class (clippers) and a prostitute class (dolls). Outside of the barons’ system, nomads, bandits and other clans roam the Badlands.
The show builds a complex and compelling world out of its post-apocalyptic setting, one that feels both old and new at the same time. The way in is through Sunny (Daniel Wu), the regent (head clipper) of Quinn, the most powerful of the barons. In the opening episode, Sunny comes across a young boy with mysterious powers who becomes yet another resource for the barons to fight over, among them Minerva, aka The Widow (Emily Beecham), who oversees the barony of her late husband but wants out of the feudal system.
It’s a show that thrives on conflict and beautifully choreographed action, with a cast that also includes Orla Brady (Mistresses), Sarah Bolger (Once Upon A Time) and Nick Frost (Shaun Of The Dead). (Three series)
