Watch Angels in America
- TV-MA
- 2003
- 1 Season
-
8.1 (28,679)
Angels in America is a groundbreaking HBO miniseries that was released in 2003, directed by Mike Nichols and based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name by Tony Kushner. The cast of the miniseries includes several high-profile actors like Al Pacino, Meryl Streep, Emma Thompson, and Mary Louise Parker. The story of Angels in America takes place in New York City during the mid-1980s, amidst the AIDS epidemic and a conservative political climate. The series revolves around the intersecting lives of several characters who are struggling with their own personal demons and political issues. The main characters of the series are Prior Walter (played by Justin Kirk), a young man with AIDS who is abandoned by his lover, Louis Ironson (played by Ben Shenkman); Harper Pitt (played by Mary Louise Parker), a Valium-addicted Mormon housewife whose husband, Joe (played by Patrick Wilson), is wrestling with his own sexuality; and Roy Cohn (played by Al Pacino), a powerful lawyer who is dying of AIDS but refuses to acknowledge his homosexuality. The miniseries blends elements of fantasy and magical realism with realism, including dream sequences and visits by angels (played by Emma Thompson and Meryl Streep) who communicate with Prior and push him to be a prophet of a new age. The angels' appearances have sparked controversy among some religious groups, but they help to add a surreal and poetic element to the story. The miniseries is often praised for its exceptional performances, with Al Pacino's portrayal of Roy Cohn being a particular standout. Pacino brings a menacing and charismatic energy to the role, giving viewers a glimpse into the complex psyche of a man who is both powerful and deeply flawed. Another standout performance in the series is delivered by Mary Louise Parker, who delivers a nuanced and heartbreaking portrayal of a woman struggling to keep her marriage intact while dealing with her own fears and doubts. Her character's journey is one of the most emotionally compelling of the series. While the show was aired nearly two decades ago, it still resonates with audiences today due to its themes of isolation, discrimination, and the search for meaning in a confusing and changing world. The show explores themes of religion, morality, and social justice, making it an incredibly thought-provoking and relevant watch. Overall, Angels in America is a landmark television event that has had a lasting impact on the medium. Its combination of exceptional performances, mature storytelling, and political relevance continues to make it a must-see for viewers who are interested in drama and societal issues.
