The Plot Against America
The Plot Against America

The Plot Against America

2020TV ShowEnded1 SeasonEnglish

An alternate American history told through the eyes of a working-class Jewish family in New Jersey, as they watch the political rise of Charles Lindbergh, an aviator-hero and xenophobic populist, who becomes president and turns the nation toward fascism.

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IMDb7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes88%
Metacritic75/100
Google Users79%
Director: David Simon, Ed BurnsGenres: Drama, History, War

Plot Summary

The Plot Against America is a speculative alternate history miniseries that reimagines American history during World War II. It follows the Levin family in Newark, New Jersey, as they navigate a nation under the leadership of aviator hero Charles Lindbergh, who has become president and steers the country toward isolationism and xenophobia. The series explores the rise of fascism and its impact on ordinary Jewish families living in the United States.

Critical Reception

The series received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its timely exploration of political themes, strong performances, and the chilling plausibility of its alternate timeline. Some noted its departure from historical accuracy as a narrative device to comment on contemporary issues. It was particularly lauded for its sensitive portrayal of the anxieties faced by marginalized communities.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its thought-provoking premise and exploration of contemporary political anxieties through an alternate historical lens.
  • Lauded for strong performances, particularly from the lead actors, and its effective depiction of mounting fear and societal change.
  • Appreciated for its sensitive handling of themes related to prejudice, antisemitism, and the erosion of democratic norms.

Google audience: Viewers found the series to be a compelling and unsettling "what-if" scenario that effectively highlighted the dangers of political extremism and prejudice. Many appreciated its relevance to current events and the emotional depth of the family's struggles, though some found the premise too dark or disturbing.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for a Critics' Choice Television Award for Best Limited Series.

Fun Fact

The series is based on Philip Roth's 2004 novel of the same name, which also explored this alternate history scenario.

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