Watch Magic City
- TV-MA
- 2012
- 2 Seasons
-
7.6 (12,972)
Magic City is a television series that takes place in Miami Beach, Florida during the late 1950s. The show premiered on Starz in 2012 and ran for two seasons until 2013. It is a drama series that revolves around the lives of the Miramar Playa Hotel's owner, his family, and the hotel's employees. The main character, Ike Evans (Jeffrey Dean Morgan), is the owner of the Miramar Playa Hotel. He is a self-made man who has worked hard to create a luxurious hotel that attracts Miami's elite. He is married to Vera (Olga Kurylenko), a former showgirl who struggles to adapt to the upper-class lifestyle. Ike's right-hand man and confidant is his hotel manager, Victor Lazaro (Yul Vazquez), who is also a close friend. The show is set during the height of the Cuban Revolution and the Cold War, and the political tensions of the time are interwoven into the storyline. Ike is always looking for ways to keep the hotel afloat, and one of the ways he does this is by getting involved with organized crime. He is in constant negotiations with Ben "The Butcher" Diamond (Danny Huston), a local mob boss, and trying to stay one step ahead of him. Ike's son Stevie (Steven Strait) becomes entangled in the criminal world despite his father's efforts to keep him out of it. Aside from the criminal activities, the show also explores the personal lives of the characters. Ike and Vera's relationship is put to the test as they face adultery, financial struggles, and other obstacles. Stevie falls in love with Lily Diamond (Jessica Marais), Ben's wife, leading to a complicated love triangle. Victor is dealing with his own secrets and personal life while trying to manage the hotel and support Ike. The show is visually stunning, with a focus on the Miami Beach aesthetic of the 1950s. The set design, costumes, and music all transport the viewer back in time. The hotel serves as a central location for many scenes, and the glitz and glamour of the era are on full display. One of the highlights of the show is the performances from the cast. Jeffrey Dean Morgan brings depth to Ike Evans, portraying him as a man who is both ruthless and vulnerable. Olga Kurylenko shines as Vera, showcasing her talent for playing complex characters. Yul Vazquez is excellent as Victor, bringing a quiet intensity to the role. Danny Huston is a standout as Ben Diamond, creating a character who is both terrifying and charismatic. Overall, Magic City is a compelling drama series that is well-written and well-acted. It offers a glimpse into a fascinating time in American history and the fascinating characters who inhabit it. The show's cancellation after only two seasons was a disappointment to many fans, but despite its short run, it remains a beloved series.