If you like apocalyptic shows, then look no further than “Zoo.” Two seasons on Netflix should be enough to satisfy the biggest binge watcher, including myself. However, after 2 seasons in 3 days, I was foaming at the mouth for more.
If you haven’t heard of Zoo, what first appears as a potential cheesy B grade series actually pushes through by episode two, leaving the viewer to not only ponder on the next turn, but to contemplate the morality and ethical questions we face today: When is enough brutality against animals enough?
The series takes a suspended look through the eyes of man when the tables are turned. Suddenly, the lion is able to devise plans, hunt strategically and form social bonds within his animal kingdom never witnessed before. The defiant pupil, as the scientists in the show describe it, is a coming of age when the hunter becomes the hunted.
Set across several countries and racing against the clock, a haphazard team of strangers who are experts in their fields, are grouped together to find a cure for the ‘virus’ responsible for giving animals self-awareness, a free will not to be messed with, and a higher level of consciousness. In essence, the animal kingdom wants payback for all the suffering that mankind has caused.
Like all good television series’, you become invested in at least one character. Everyone has a stake in the fight, and not everyone wins. I guarantee, by season 2 you’ll be cringing in fear as your favorite character ‘gets it’ from one of the animals, insects or fellow man.
The show also successfully balances the important question of Mother Nature and our ignorance. Our greed is under the microscope, in an unforgiving and brutal way. One can’t help but wonder about the minds of the creators Josh Appelbaum, Jeff Pinkner, Andre Nemec and Scott Rosenberg and their strong message to viewers – or is this simply another dystopian themed show?
The cast are equally brilliant with a sprinkling of fresh blood amongst seasoned actors such as Billy Burke playing Mitch Morgan; and the cinematography is as impressive.
At the end of season two’s cliffhanger, you really do wonder who the antagonist is: man, or beast,and if you’re siding with the wrong team.
I can’t wait for third season, this is a five star show.
Review by Aral Bereux
