‘Fallout’ Review (Amazon Prime Video): I Have Some Good News

The Fallout series is a risky endeavor for Amazon, as it involves producing an extensive and costly TV show that needs to both introduce a fresh narrative in the video game's universe and satisfy established fans of the franchise. Furthermore, the program must attract a broad new audience to achieve widespread success.

I'm delighted to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the game as a loyal follower of the series. After watching all eight episodes, I grew to like the show even more. From the trailers, it seemed like a tall order, but I think they succeeded.

The overall ambiance, appearance, and extreme care put into developing the in-game environment stands in complete contrast to some other video game adaptations, which we won't mention, that strive to entirely deviate from the original content. This movie remains remarkably true to the games, all the while not being a direct interpretation of any one specific game. However, it does share a fundamental premise: the protagonist, a vault dweller, must journey to the surface and reunite with their father.

The individual in the vault is named Lucy, portrayed by Ella Purnell from Yellowjackets. Her performance is exceptional and could potentially launch her into stardom. As she experiences the terrible realities of the immense wasteland, her once innocent and inexperienced mentality is distorted. However, unlike the Joker's character development, she manages to preserve her fundamental beliefs even as she becomes acclimated to shooting at a multitude of things.

I really enjoyed Aaron Moten's acting in his role as Maximus, a squire in the Brotherhood of Steel. I had never heard of him before this, but he surprised me with his performance. He wasn't what I expected for this character - not your typical tough soldier, but more of a clumsy and awkward young man shoved into a grown-up role. I actually think that's a good thing - it's refreshing to see something different. Usually, you would expect a grizzled veteran to play this part, but Moten's portrayal offers a unique perspective.

Moreover, let's not forget about Walton Goggins. It was widely acknowledged that his selection as a ghoul was perfect, and the reality is that it is perfect. However, you might not be aware of the dual part he plays. Yes, Goggins portrays a tough and somewhat sinister ghoul gunslinger with a digitally-enhanced nose. Yet he also appears in extended segments of the program that depict his pre-war period as a Clint Eastwood-like movie idol who begins promoting Vault Tec while slowly discovering the true intentions of the corporation.

Jonathan Nolan, known for his work on Westworld, is the creator of this series, and it features classic Nolan-style mysteries for viewers to enjoy. Many followers of his work will recognize some of the recurring themes, like the "vaults being dangerous and ominous," although the specifics of this danger are still a mystery to be unraveled. Additionally, there are more significant inquiries to be made, such as what is the object that everyone in the Wasteland is searching for, why was Lucy's father abducted, who is the mountain's warlord, and how has Goggins' ghoul managed to survive for so long while still pursuing his objective?

Although not all questions were resolved by the conclusion, we don't have to anxiously await a never-ending mystery due to the show's cancellation like in Netflix or Max. Amazon has faith in this series, and they have already begun production on season 2.

The tone was perfectly executed in this series. It's rated hard-R and includes graphic violence, foul language, sexual content, and nudity, but it doesn't feel like it's just there for shock value. It stays true to the video game in most ways and pays close attention to the details. The replica weapons, Stimpaks, and Vault sets are all crafted with impressive accuracy, and the wasteland's CGI is seamlessly integrated without looking fake. The scope of Fallout's world is three levels beyond a ruined world like in The Last of Us, and the show successfully captures that vastness.

There are not many complaints about this show as it is highly entertaining. Though, towards the end, there is more emotional depth. The storyline where characters pass around an important object relies on coincidences, which can be a bit much at times. At the start of the show, there are many different storylines that can be overwhelming, but they come together smoothly. It is refreshing to see a show that explores all angles of the Fallout universe, including pre-war storylines and characters stuck in vaults with their own mysteries to solve. Overall, it is a great show.

It would surprise me greatly if those who are fond of Fallout don't find the show appealing and crave for more. I cannot accurately anticipate how the madness of the show will resonate with the public, but nonetheless, I do believe that it will achieve success and will undoubtedly return for one or more seasons in the future. So, sit back and enjoy the ride.

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