For the typical student, extracurricular activities will be just another burden besides classes, homework and tests. Others may view it as unnecessary distractions from...
Prison Break is one of those extraordinary television series that captures its audience from the premiere and holds on tight. A gripping mix of action, suspense and emotional depth, the show is less about escaping from prison than about how far one man will go to save his brother and what he's willing to sacrifice along the way.
Michael Scofield (Wentworth Miller), a genius engineer who offers to insert himself into Fox River State Penitentiary's infamous gates for the purpose of rescuing his wrongly convicted brother, Lincoln Burrows (Dominic Purcell), is where things begin. A dazzling round of schemes, betrayal and hair-raising close calls arises as the rescue mission to liberate Lincoln pushes forward under the leadership of Michael's team of convict members and like-minded allies from outside prison fences.
What distinguishes Prison Break from other action TV shows is its advanced plotting. The series is excellent at building suspense, with every episode bringing a new level of complexity to Michael's plan. The show is riddled with twists and turns, with one wrong move possibly leading the characters to doom.
For example, in the first season, Michael hides part of his escape plan in a labyrinth of tattoos on his upper body to help his brother escape. Abstract ink to the human eye is, in fact, a replica of the prison, featuring duct schematics, pipe routes and codes. In a suspenseful episode, the breakout is aided because Michael has access to a specific pipe in the prison infirmary because of his fellow prisoners. When the warden suddenly decides to redecorate and give orders for the wall over the pipe to be demolished, Michael must improvise under pressure a new plan. The tension is palpable, and each delay or twist compels the team to adapt, threatening exposure or death.
The chemistry between Purcell and Miller is also a highlight. Their portrayal of the brotherly love between Michael and Lincoln is realistic and heart-wrenching. Michael's unshakeable commitment to his brother, no matter what the cost and ethical challenge, is a strong emotional pull throughout the series.
The supporting cast lends depth as well. Veronica (Robin Tunney), an attorney who is determined to exonerate Lincoln and T-Bag (Robert Knepper), quite possibly the most erratic and terror-inspiring villains on TV, provides depth and suspense to the series. The chemistry between characters, especially within the prison setting, creates an electrifying atmosphere that cannot be overlooked.
Prison Break is not only about suspense and action; it is also a show that discusses loyalty, justice, and the strength of family. As the characters struggle to survive in a world that is merciless, their motivations come under scrutiny, and the series provokes difficult questions regarding right and wrong.
Prison Break is an entertaining show with intelligent storytelling, excellent action and a high emotional core. It's an adrenaline ride full of surprises and suspense, and even if crime shows aren't your thing, this one's worth checking out. If you haven't seen it yet, it's well worth a glimpse.
