Meet Sarah, she’s our British protagonist who just arrived back in town (Toronto, I suppose) and runs into someone who doesn’t just look like her…looks exactly like her. Then her identical self jumps in front of a train. Welcome to Orphan Black.
There’s just something highly entertaining about seeing an actor play multiple parts in one show. Like Buffy and Buffy Bot, Willow and Vamp Willow or not-so-Xander and Xander (oh wait, that was his real identical twin brother playing the other roll, never mind.) In this show, we get to see the rightly awarded acting chops of one Ms. Tatiana Maslany. Not only does she play Sarah, but we also get introduced to the (SPOILER ALERT) recently deceased Beth, but that’s only after Sarah decides to escape her baggage and take over Beth’s life. Seriously, Tatiana (who is Canadian) gets to play a Brit trying to act and speak more North American (that’s what I’m calling the Canadian/American accent because this show confuses me). My mind is blown. SO META (have I ever mentioned how I do not really understand the proper use of META, but will just throw it out there and see if it sticks…)
Sarah playing Beth (who is a proper detective)
Through being Beth, Sarah finds other clones. And that means we get the more fun adventures of Tatiana playing several different personalities.
There’s the German who is a bit Euro trashy.
The uptight Soccer mom, Alison.
The scientist grad student who likes the ladies, Cosima.
When you see these different personalities in action, it’s easy to see why there’s so much buzz happening around Tatiana’s performance as these characters. She’s the dark horse in the Emmy nomination race and if I had a vote, it would certainly go to her. Since those things are completely out of my control, I would rather focus on the types of clones I would like to see her play next.
Jersey Girl Clone
Think big hair, dark tan, and long nails with an explosive personality. I’m talking full out Real Housewive’s of New Jersey throwing tables.
Southern Belle
The really southern with a deep accent belle and southern values.
Twihard
The Puh-LEASE woman in pink.
Basically, if you like shows about mysteries surrounding clones, countries of origins and ethical practices of advancing science and medicine, this show is for you. If you like actresses that can create unique individual characters all within one hour, this show is for you.
Check out BBC America for information on how you can binge watch this past season (because you will).
Are you watching Orphan Black? Which is your favorite clone?
