Cold Lazarus
Cold Lazarus is a four-part British television drama written by Dennis Potter with the knowledge that he was dying of pancreatic cancer. Forming the second half of a pair with the television serial Karaoke, it is Potter's sole science fiction work. In a bleak, synthetic 24th-century dystopian Britain, scientists work on reviving the mind of 20th-century writer Daniel Feeld, whose head was frozen after Feeld's death shortly after the events of 'Karaoke'. Progress has not been made, so discontinuation is considered, but media mogul David Siltz, who has been spying on the project, envisages a fortune from broadcasting Feeld's memories on TV.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set in the 22nd century, Cold Lazarus explores the consequences of scientific ambition and human fallibility. It follows the story of Dr. Robert Apfel, a brilliant but morally compromised scientist who seeks immortality through cryogenics. His resurrected consciousness grapples with his past actions and the ethical dilemmas presented by his pursuit of eternal life. The narrative delves into themes of identity, regret, and the very nature of humanity.
Critical Reception
Cold Lazarus was critically acclaimed for its ambitious themes, strong performances, and thought-provoking narrative. It is often cited as a landmark in British science fiction television, lauded for its intelligent exploration of complex philosophical questions. The series garnered significant attention for its unflinching look at the darker aspects of scientific advancement and its impact on the human condition.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its intellectual depth and challenging themes.
- Albert Finney's performance as Dr. Apfel was widely lauded.
- Considered a benchmark for thought-provoking British sci-fi television.
Google audience: Audience reception information is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The series is a sequel to the 1995 BBC drama "Karaoke," also written by Dennis Potter, and features some of the same characters and themes.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources