Transatlantic
Transatlantic

Transatlantic

2023TV ShowEndedGerman

Two Americans and their allies form a scrappy rescue operation in 1940 Marseilles to help artists, writers and other refugees fleeing Europe during WWII. Transatlantic is a historical drama television miniseries created by Anna Winger and Daniel Hendler, based on the 2019 novel The Flight Portfolio by Julie Orringer. The novel explores the historic Emergency Rescue Committee that operated in Marseilles, Spain, and Portugal in 1940 after the fall of France. The series includes or refers to well-known artists or scholars of the time who were saved by the Committee or interacted with it. The series closed the 2023 Series Mania festival in March, ahead of its Netflix premiere on 7 April 2023.

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Insights

IMDb6.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes78%
Metacritic65/100
Google Users85%
Director: Anna WingerGenres: Drama, History, War

Plot Summary

In 1940s Marseille, during World War II, a group of refugees and resistance fighters seek passage out of occupied Europe. Among them are American journalist Varian Fry and wealthy heiress Mary Jayne Gold, who become central to organizing escape routes. The series follows their dangerous efforts to save lives amidst the encroaching Nazi threat, navigating treacherous political waters and personal risks.

Critical Reception

Transatlantic received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its timely themes of heroism and resilience in the face of oppression. The performances, particularly of the main cast, were highlighted for their nuance and emotional depth. The series was commended for its historical accuracy and engaging narrative, though some reviewers noted a pacing that could occasionally feel slow.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its compelling portrayal of courage and humanitarian efforts during WWII.
  • Noted for strong performances and a well-researched historical backdrop.
  • Some critics found the pacing uneven, but appreciated the overall message.

Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the series for its historical relevance and inspiring story of individuals risking their lives to help others. Many commented on the effective storytelling and the emotional impact of the refugees' plight.

Fun Fact

The series is inspired by the true story of the Emergency Rescue Committee (ERC) and its efforts to help thousands of refugees escape Europe during World War II, based on the memoir 'The Light of Day' by Varian Fry.

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