“Deadwood.” “American Gods.”

“Deadwood.” Amazon Prime. Historical Western. Three seasons and a movie. The backdrop: 1870s. Deadwood in South Dakota, before and after the area's annexation by the Dakota Territory. The series chronicles Deadwood's growth from goldrush camp to full-pledged town. Many other historical figures appear as characters, including Seth Bullock, George Crook, Wyatt Earp, Al Swearengen, E. B. Farnum, George Hearst, Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, Sol Star, Jack McCall, and Charlie Utter. But as the usual case, writers excise liberty in “fictionalizing” or overextending characterization of those real people in the past, notably Mr Hearst who is often pictured as villain non-pareil. At least there is no vampire slayer Abe Lincoln here.

       The plot lines involving these characters include historical truths as well as substantial fictional elements. Actual diaries and newspapers from 1870s Deadwood were used as reference points for characters and events—but as I said, this is an “artistic-license” version of history. At least, the look and feel of the production set seems believable though I don’t know really.

       But “Deadwood” is an engaging show. Writing is topnotch, no kitschy lecturings and lumbering moralism. Seems credible. All in all, this is Ian McShane’s stage. As Al Swearengen, he is both filthy ruthless and reluctant pacifist. The movie version, “Deadwood: The Movie,” is simply a gist of the TV series. Nothin’ much. 📹📺📹

“American Gods.” Hulu. Fantasy drama. Three seasons. Based on Neil Gaiman's 2001 novel of the same name. Mr Gaiman is huge among my kids but not me—although I labored through 3/4th of this book, and the series. Mainly because Ian McShane is on it. Not saying that the entire exercise is bad; it just appeals to you. But not to me. The special effects are kickass but I am not a fan of special effects. I am old school cineaste. So there!

       Premise: Only days before his scheduled release from prison, Shadow Moon is told his wife has been killed in a car accident, and he is released early to attend the funeral. A series of events delays his trip home, during which time he meets the mysterious Mr. Wednesday. Something like that. I like though the series of episodes with Peter Stormare as Czernobog, the Slavic god of darkness, and Orlando Jones’ spoken word spot. 

       I can’t really say much since I stopped watching midway Season 2. 📹📺📹