Sterling K. Brown understands that “Paradise” is not your typical relaxing show to watch before bed. The first season of the Hulu thriller series, now available on Disney+ in Canada, portrayed a bleak scenario set in a government-controlled bunker post-climate disaster and nuclear apocalypse, offering little in terms of comfort.
Within the confines of the bunker, the inhabitants continuously uncovered the deceit and manipulation by their leaders, drawing uncomfortably close parallels to real-world issues. Brown, who not only acts in but also oversees the series, emphasized the show’s aim to entertain while prompting viewers to reflect on their role in shaping the world for better or worse.
With the release of the second season a year after its debut, the recurring themes of political distrust and governmental chaos in “Paradise” resonate strongly. Brown hinted that such themes may mirror current events, highlighting the inherent skepticism citizens hold towards their government, especially concerning political funding sources and interests.
The show’s narrative mirrors the erosion of faith in political institutions and the looming specter of international conflict, particularly evident in an episode detailing the government’s struggle to respond to an imminent nuclear threat. Brown revealed the initial plan to craft three seasons, each delving into different aspects of the storyline, with a focus on combating pervasive pessimism in the latest episodes outside the bunker.
Addressing contemporary concerns was a deliberate choice from the outset, as the creators aimed to tap into the prevailing societal anxieties and weave them into the show’s narrative. By breaking out of the bunker’s confines, the series seeks to offer a nuanced exploration of hope amidst a backdrop of uncertainty and mistrust, presenting a multifaceted view of the world’s complexities.