Here in the States, ORPHAN BLACK returns tonight for it’s third season. This is the TV equivalent of
pitchers and catchers report. I’ve been waiting for months.
For those who are not familiar with ORPHAN BLACK (like TV Academy members obviously), it is a show on BBC America that is part science-fiction/part thriller about cloning. It’s well written and stylish but what elevates it to must-see status is Tatiana Maslany who plays at least five clones. Each character is well drawn, and that’s just for starters. There are scenes where several of the clones are in the same scene interacting with each other. And other scenes where one of the clones tries to pass for another and Tatiana deftly portrays two distinct characters at once. Sound confusing? It’s really not. You pick up on it very quickly. And you're in awe.
(This is in contrast to Debra Messing who can play five characters different and make them all seem the same.)
What is confusing is the plot. It’s filled with conspiracies and double agents, but you know what? Forget all that. Sarah is the main character. Just assume that everyone is a bad guy and out to get her. Then just go with it. You’ll be fine, even if you’ve never seen the show.
And this year there will be two clones. Ari Millen will be a boy clone. The mating possibilities are infinite!
The fact that Tatiana Maslany has not won an Emmy is a travesty. Jessica Lange can't carry her make-up case.
For all I know the season has already aired in the U.K. and Canada, but here in America season three premieres tonight at 9:00 on BBC-America. I can’t wait to see it… them.