Damnation (TV Show)

Title — Damnation
Available on — Prime Video, Netflix, YouTube TV
Production Country — United States
Release Date — 2017
During the Great Depression, a stranger with a violent past poses as a preacher and rallies farmers to mount a strike in a rural Iowa community.

🪶 Story & Synopsis

In the gripping period drama series “Damnation,” created by Tony Tost, viewers are transported to the bleak backdrop of 1931 Iowa during the Great Depression. The story unfolds in a time of turmoil where impoverished farmers are on strike, facing off against powerful industrialists determined to maintain control.

The protagonist, Seth Davenport, portrayed by Killian Scott, masquerades as a preacher while secretly plotting a rebellion against the oppressive establishment. Unbeknownst to him, a ruthless strikebreaker named Creeley Turner, played by Logan Marshall-Green, has been hired to crush any hint of resistance.

As tensions escalate and alliances shift, viewers are drawn into a world where loyalties are tested, and the line between good and evil blurs. The intricate web of deceit, power struggles, and moral ambiguity keeps audiences on the edge of their seats throughout the ten intense episodes of the series.

With stunning cinematography capturing the vast plains of Iowa and a haunting score by composer Adam Taylor, “Damnation” immerses viewers in a bygone era fraught with injustice and rebellion. The single-camera setup enhances the gritty realism of the narrative, bringing the historical setting to vivid life.

Throughout the series, themes of corruption, greed, and the fight for justice resonate strongly, echoing the struggles of the era. The ensemble cast delivers powerful performances, with Killian Scott’s portrayal of Seth Davenport standing out for its depth and complexity.

As the story unfolds, dark secrets are revealed, alliances are tested, and the consequences of choices made reverberate through the community. The tension builds to a gripping climax as Seth Davenport’s true motives are uncovered, leading to a shocking revelation that leaves viewers questioning everything they thought they knew.

Despite its compelling storyline and strong performances, “Damnation” faced challenges and was ultimately met with cancellation, leaving fans disappointed and craving more of the intrigue and drama that defined the series. The unresolved cliffhanger at the end of the season left viewers on the edge of their seats, yearning for closure and answers to the lingering mysteries.

With its rich historical backdrop, complex characters, and gripping narrative, “Damnation” is a must-watch for fans of period dramas and compelling storytelling. The series leaves a lasting impact, exploring timeless themes of power, resistance, and the enduring struggle for justice in the face of overwhelming odds.

🧑 Cast & Crew

Logan Marshall-Green, Killian Scott, Sarah Jones, Chasten Harmon, Christopher Heyerdahl, Melinda Page Hamilton, Joe Adler

Actor Role
Seth Davenport Portrayed by Killian Scott
Creeley Turner Portrayed by Logan Marshall-Green
Amelia Davenport Portrayed by Sarah Jones
Bessie Louvin Portrayed by Chasten Harmon

💬 Reviews and feedback

Picture this: a thrilling showdown between a farmer-preacher, a strikebreaking cowboy, and a corrupt sheriff set against the gritty backdrop of the Depression era. No, this isn’t a wild west reenactment at your local fair; it’s the riveting series, Damnation.

Damnation is like unearthing a hidden gem in your grandmother’s attic – unexpected, intriguing, and full of historical secrets. The plot follows Seth Davenport, a preacher with revolutionary ambitions, pitted against the ruthless strikebreaker Creeley Turner hired to crush his rebellion. As their clash escalates, alliances are tested, morals are blurred, and the line between good and evil becomes as murky as a moonshine cocktail.

  • Plot and Themes: The storyline is as rich as Grandma’s famous apple pie – layered with historical references like the Farmers’ Holiday Association and the Black Legion. It delves into complex themes of power struggles, moral ambiguity, and societal unrest with the finesse of a skilled storyteller spinning a captivating yarn around a campfire.
  • Acting and Characters: The cast delivers performances sharper than a farmer’s pitchfork. Scott’s portrayal of the conflicted preacher oozes charisma, while Green’s chilling cowboy sends shivers down your spine. Heyerdahl’s corrupt sheriff adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already compelling mix.
  • Direction: The direction is as precise as a well-aimed lasso throw. Each scene is crafted with attention to detail, drawing viewers into the tumultuous world of 1930s America with authenticity and grit.
  • Cinematography and Production Design: The cinematography captures the essence of the era in sepia tones that transport you back in time faster than Doc Brown’s DeLorean. The production design recreates Depression-era settings with such realism that you can almost smell the dust kicked up by passing cattle.
  • Special Effects and Editing: The special effects add an extra layer of intensity to the show’s action sequences. From explosive confrontations to heart-pounding chases through dusty plains, every moment is skillfully enhanced by seamless editing that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Binge-watching Tips: Grab some popcorn (or maybe some moonshine if you’re feeling adventurous) and settle in for a wild ride through this gripping tale of rebellion and redemption. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for subtle historical Easter eggs hidden throughout each episode!

The dialogue crackles like an old radio broadcast from yesteryears – sharp, impactful, and laced with enough tension to make even John Wayne break out in a sweat. Each word uttered feels like a bullet fired in an intense standoff where words are just as deadly as bullets.

If you’re looking for a series that doesn’t shy away from exploring dark themes or delving into the complexities of human nature amidst chaos, Damnation is your ticket to ride through turbulent times where morals are tested like steel forged in fire.

In conclusion, Damnation isn’t just another TV show; it’s a journey back in time where morality hangs by a thread, alliances shift like sand dunes in a desert storm, and redemption seems as elusive as water in drought-ridden plains.

Ratings: 9/10

So grab your hat, saddle up your horse (or cozy up on your couch), and dive into Damnation for an unforgettable ride through America’s turbulent past!

Pros Cons
Great storyline set in the Depression era Low viewership leading to cancellation
Strong performances by the cast Dark and violent themes might not be suitable for all viewers
Loosely based on interesting chapters of American history Some critics find the portrayal lurid and violent
Interesting and deep characters May not appeal to those looking for light entertainment
Realistic portrayal of historical events Some viewers may find the pacing slow

Feedback

  • Damnation (TV Series 2017-2018) - IMDb

    • Awards
      • 1 win & 5 nominations

    Browse episodesSPONSOREDSPONSORED

    Did you know

    • TriviaWas originally titled “Dark Wind,” but was changed to “Damnation” to fit the show’s theme and tone.

    Featured reviewCancellation :(I am sad this was cancelled… Killian Scott and Logan Marshall Green are excellent and the storyline is quite interesting. But really, I’m impressed with Killian and his ability to play Seth Davenport since the only thing I’ve seen him in is the very Irish, but very good, show Love/Hate.helpful•70

  • Damnation (TV series) - Wikipedia

    Damnationis an American period drama television series. The series was ordered on May 12, 2017. The series is a co-production between Universal Cable Productions and Netflix. Netflix streamed the show worldwide outside the United States, where it aired on USA Network. The series premiered on November 7, 2017. On January 25, 2018, it was announced that the series had been cancelled after one season and was removed from Netflix in 2023.

  • Damnation: Season 1 | Rotten Tomatoes

    Damnation’s complex character driven mystery is intriguing, though it occasionally feels like homework.

    Season 1 – DamnationWhere to WatchDamnation — Season 1

    Buy Damnation — Season 1 on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV.

    What to KnowCritics ReviewsAudience ReviewsMy RatingCast & Crew

    Killian ScottSeth DavenportLogan Marshall-GreenCreeley TurnerSarah JonesAmelia DavenportChasten HarmonBessie LouvinChristopher HeyerdahlDon BerrymanJoe AdlerGuest Star

  • Watch Damnation, Season 1 | Prime Video - amazon.com

    Episodes

    • S1 E1 – Sam Riley’s BodyWhen a farmer’s strike led by local preacher Seth Davenport escalates, a vicious man from his past named Creeley Turner is sent to Holden, Iowa to restore order.Available to buy
    • S1 E2 – Which Side Are You OnAs Seth and the farmers ward off the treacherous Black Legion vigilante group, Creeley works to learn more about his brother’s new life and the woman he shares it with.Available to buy
    • S1 E3 – The Blessed Heart of Middle AmericaWhen the local farms face foreclosure, Seth and Amelia must find a way to win them back. Creeley and Bessie run afoul of the Black Legion.Available to buy
    • S1 E4 – The Emperor of Ice CreamNegotiations commence between the farmers and the bank. But things turn bloody when Creeley divides the farmers.Available to buy
    • S1 E5 – Den of Lost SoulsWhen a traveling carnival comes to Holden, a collection of new faces put Seth and Creeley on their toes, but it’s a friend from the past that truly shakes things up.Available to buy
    • S1 E6 – In Wyoming FashionWith banker Calvin Rumple run out of town, the local bank presents an unexpected opportunity for Seth and Lew.Available to buy
    • S1 E7 – A Different SpeciesCreeley meets his master on an exclusive hunting retreat, but finds there is more than one game at play here. Seth infiltrates a nearby factory.Available to buy
    • S1 E8 – The Goodness of MenWhen Bessie discovers the grand industrial plans for Holden, Seth and Amelia must decide whether to protect her from the Black Legion.Available to buy
    • S1 E9 – Dark Was the Night, Cold Was the GroundSeth and the farmers take on the Black Legion with help from unlikely allies.Available to buy
    • S1 E10 – God’s BodySeth and Creeley are forced to confront the truth about their past, and in turn figure out a way to survive the rapidly arriving future.Available to buy
  • Damnation - watch tv show streaming online - JustWatch

    You are able to buy “Damnation” on Apple TV, Vudu, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies as download.

    • S1 E10 – God’s Body
    • S1 E9 – Dark Was the Night, Cold Was the Ground
    • S1 E8 – The Goodness of Men

    Seth Davenport is masquerading as a small town Iowa preacher in the hopes of starting a full-blown insurrection against the status quo, unaware that an industrialist tycoon has hired a professional strikebreaker to stop the uprising by any means necessary. An epic saga of the secret history of the 1930’s American heartland, chronicling the mythic conflict and bloody struggle between big money and the downtrodden, God and greed, charlatans, and prophets.

⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)

In the season finale of Damnation titled “God’s Body,” the show delves into themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. The residents of Holden County are depicted as flawed individuals, each grappling with their own sins and desires amidst a backdrop of social injustice and power imbalances.

The storyline unfolds as a modern-day David versus Goliath tale, with the farmers representing David and the industrialists embodying the formidable Goliath. Love, revenge, and the complexities of human relationships are interwoven into the narrative, adding layers of depth to the character dynamics.

Sheriff Don Berryman’s past interracial relationship, Creeley and Bessie’s dangerous bond, and Connie and Amelia’s quests for vengeance all contribute to the intricate web of motivations and conflicts within the show. These relationships highlight the blurred lines between good and evil, often veering into the realm of the melodramatic.

As the tension escalates, a pivotal shootout at Martha Riley’s farm underscores the ongoing battle between the farmers and the forces of evil. Through the lens of faith and divine intervention, the show explores the idea of communal unity in the face of adversity, culminating in a climactic moment where the townspeople come together to confront their shared enemies.

The season finale also introduces a musical theatre element and a series of confessions, setting the stage for a dramatic cliffhanger that leaves viewers eagerly anticipating the next season. Despite some shortcomings in the execution of certain plot points, the episode manages to deliver a satisfying conclusion while hinting at new challenges and revelations to come.

Overall, the season finale of Damnation receives a rating of 3 out of 5, reflecting a mix of compelling storytelling, flawed character portrayals, and the promise of further intrigue in the upcoming season. As the residents of Holden County grapple with their past transgressions and seek redemption, the stage is set for a continuation of their tumultuous journey in the face of adversity.

👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating

TV-MA

Age Rating:

Damnation TV show is best suited for older teens aged 16 and above due to its dark themes, violence, language, and mature sexual content.

Parental Guide:

Parents should be aware that Damnation is a dark drama set in a 1930s Iowa farming community with intense scenes that may not be suitable for younger viewers. The show contains:

  • Violence: There are many instances of bloody deaths including shootings, stabbings, and an attempted lynching.
  • Sex & Nudity: The show features moderate sexual content with scenes set in a brothel where workers conduct business and lounge around in lingerie. Characters are shown kissing in bed, having clothed sex with moaning and thrusting, and a woman is seen giving oral sex to a man.
  • Language: Expect the use of strong language throughout the series.

Due to these themes and content, Damnation is recommended for viewers aged 16 and above who can handle the mature subject matter portrayed in the show.

📺 Streaming and where to watch

streaming service extra information
Prime Video Watch Damnation, Season 1 on Prime Video at amazon.com. An epic saga about the secret history of the 1930’s American heartland.
Netflix Unfortunately, Damnation is unavailable on an ad-supported plan due to licensing restrictions.
YouTube TV Start a Free Trial to watch Damnation on YouTube TV. Stream live TV from various cable networks.

❝ Quotes and Cult

  • The man I work for just sent someone to kill my brother and his wife, and I can't let it happen.
    Bessie
  • I thought you were sent here to stop him.
    Creeley
  • Yeah, I was, but it's more complicated than that. I need my brother alive.
    Creeley
  • People change.
    Creeley
  • Everyone can use a little tenderness sometimes...especially those of us unaccustomed to it.
    Bessie
  • Deep down, that cold-blooded killer routine is just an act.
    Seth

🤖Damnation Reddit Talks

Damnation TV Show

r/DamnationTV is a subreddit dedicated to discussing the USA Network TV show Damnation. The period drama series centers on the mythic conflict between good and evil in the American heartland during the Great Depression.

Cancellation and Future Prospects

Unfortunately, Damnation was canceled after only one season, leaving many fans disappointed. Some Redditors expressed frustration over investing time in a show that would have no proper conclusion. Others speculated that the show’s cancellation may have been due to its dark and violent content.

Despite its cancellation, there is some hope that Damnation may be revived in the future. The show’s distribution rights are held by NBCUniversal Television, which also owns the streaming service Peacock. This suggests that Damnation could potentially find a new home on Peacock or another NBCUniversal platform.

Reviews and Opinions

Redditors who watched Damnation generally had positive things to say about the show. Many praised its strong performances, compelling story, and evocative setting. Some also noted the show’s relevance to current political and social issues.

However, not all Redditors were as enthusiastic about Damnation. Some found the show to be too violent or preachy. Others felt that the story was too predictable or that the characters were not well-developed.

Topics of Discussion

In addition to discussing the show’s cancellation and overall quality, Redditors also engaged in a variety of other topics related to Damnation. These topics included:

  • The show’s historical accuracy
  • The characters’ motivations and relationships
  • The show’s religious themes
  • The show’s political and social commentary
  • The show’s potential for future seasons

Overall, Redditors had a lot to say about Damnation. While some were disappointed by the show’s cancellation, others remained hopeful that it would be revived in the future. Overall, the show received positive reviews, with many Redditors praising its strong performances, compelling story, and evocative setting.

Top discussions

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is Damnation on Netflix a true story?

Damnation is fiction, but it is loosely based on some obscure chapters of American history, including the Farmers’ Holiday Association and the Black Legion.

What happened at the end of Damnation?

At the end of Damnation, the final scene shows Seth returning home to find fresh blood, adding a cliffhanger element to the storyline.

Why was Damnation cancelled?

Damnation was cancelled due to declining viewership, with the network worried about further drops if a Season 2 was ordered.

Was Damnation filmed in Iowa?

Damnation was actually filmed in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, with the setting designed to comment on the current state of affairs in the early 21st century.

Is the show Damnation based on a true story?

Damnation is very loosely based on historical events like the Farmers’ Holiday Association and the Black Legion, drawing inspiration from American history.

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