Taboo: The Dark Historical Drama Starring Tom Hardy
Premiering in 2017, Taboo is a British historical drama series that dives into the darkest recesses of the 19th century. Created by Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders) along with brothers Tom Hardy and Chips Hardy, the production stands out for its enigmatic storytelling and cinematic visuals.
Starring Tom Hardy himself, who is also one of the executive producers, Taboo combines political intrigue, family mysteries, and a dark atmosphere that captures the brutality and corruption of the time.
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Synopsis
The story is set in 1814 and follows James Keziah Delaney (Tom Hardy), a man presumed dead who returns to London after spending years in Africa. His return coincides with the death of his father, making him the heir to a strategic land in the United States, the Nootka Sound.
This inheritance places James at the center of a deadly game between the East India Company, the British government, and the United States, which are embroiled in the Anglo-American War of 1812.
As he faces powerful enemies, James seeks answers about his family's past, dealing with dark secrets and his own disturbing visions.
Central Themes
1. Ambition and Power Struggles
The control of Nootka Sound is the central point of conflict in Taboo. Located on the west coast of North America, the land holds significant strategic and commercial importance, making James a target for powerful factions that spare no effort to secure their interests.
The struggle for power exposes the greed and corruption of institutions like the East India Company, one of the early examples of global corporations, portrayed as an almost omnipotent and unscrupulous entity.
2. Family Secrets and Trauma
Beyond political intrigue, Taboo explores James's troubled past and that of his family. The series gradually reveals secrets involving betrayals, conspiracies, and problematic relationships, such as the emotionally complex connection between James and his half-sister Zilpha Geary (Oona Chaplin).
These elements add emotional depth to the narrative, highlighting the scars left by loss, abuse, and isolation.
3. Mysticism and the Supernatural
The title Taboo reflects not only the controversial themes of the series but also James's mystical and spiritual side. He is haunted by visions and nightmares suggesting a supernatural connection to the spiritual practices he encountered during his time on the continent.
These aspects give the series a unique tone, blending brutal realism with elements of mystery and mysticism.
Direction and Visual Style
1. The Dark London of 1814
Taboo is visually stunning, with a meticulous recreation of London in the early 19th century. The city is presented as a dirty, claustrophobic, and dangerous place, filled with smoke, muddy streets, and decaying buildings.
This realistic and dark aesthetic contributes to the oppressive atmosphere of the series, reflecting the brutality of the time and the precarious conditions in which many lived.
2. Cinematic Cinematography
The cinematography of Taboo, led by Mark Patten, uses natural lighting and elegant framing to create a sense of intimacy and intensity. The scenes are carefully composed to highlight the emotional tension and mystery of the narrative.
3. Striking Soundtrack
The soundtrack, composed by Max Richter, is one of the standout features of the series. With a blend of classical instruments and modern arrangements, the music amplifies the dark and emotional atmosphere of the plot, elevating each moment of tension and introspection.
Main Characters
1. James Keziah Delaney (Tom Hardy)
James is a complex and enigmatic character. His relentless and unpredictable behavior makes him both fascinating and fearsome. Hardy delivers an intense performance, capturing the duality of a man tormented by traumas yet driven by an unwavering sense of purpose.
2. Zilpha Geary (Oona Chaplin)
Zilpha, James's half-sister, is a woman trapped in an unhappy and tumultuous marriage. Her relationship with James is fraught with tension and ambiguity, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative.
3. Sir Stuart Strange (Jonathan Pryce)
As the head of the East India Company, Strange is James's main antagonist. Pryce delivers a captivating performance, portraying the character as a cunning, manipulative man relentless in his pursuit of power.
4. Brace (David Hayman)
Brace is the loyal servant of the Delaney family, acting as an advisor to James. Although a secondary character, his presence provides important insights into the family's past.
Critical Reception
Since its premiere, Taboo has received mostly positive reviews, praised for its dark aesthetic, high-level performances, and intriguing narrative.
- Rotten Tomatoes: 76% approval rating, with praise for Hardy's performance and the originality of the plot.
- Metacritic: Score of 67/100, indicating favorable reviews.
Critics especially commended the combination of historical intrigue and supernatural elements, though some noted the slow pace as a downside.
Comparisons with Other Productions
1. Peaky Blinders
Created by Steven Knight, just like Taboo, Peaky Blinders also explores themes of ambition, violence, and family conflicts within a historical era. Both series share a dark tone and morally complex characters.
2. Ripper Street
Set in the same dark London, Ripper Street is a police series that shares the same detailed visual style and focus on mysteries.
3. The Alienist
With an equally dark atmosphere, The Alienist investigates psychological mysteries in a similar time period, attracting fans of intense historical dramas.
Why Watch Taboo?
1. Magnetic Performance by Tom Hardy
Hardy delivers a powerful performance that captures the intensity and mystery of James Delaney, making him one of the most memorable characters of his career.
2. A Realistic and Brutal Portrayal of the Era
The series dives into the social, political, and economic complexities of the early 19th century, providing a rich and educational experience.
3. Mystery and Intrigue in Every Episode
With constant twists and a tension-filled atmosphere, Taboo keeps the viewer engaged from start to finish.
Where to Watch
Taboo is available on Amazon Prime Video in various regions, in addition to being accessible on Blu-ray and DVD.
Conclusion
Taboo is a dark and fascinating historical drama that combines political intrigue, family mysteries, and supernatural elements. With masterful direction, high-level performances, and an engaging aesthetic, the series is an essential experience for fans of intense and well-crafted stories.
If you’re looking for a production that balances complex storytelling with striking visuals, Taboo is a solid choice. Prepare to dive into a world of secrets, betrayals, and power, led by Tom Hardy's magnetic performance.
