Stateless

As a white male, it felt very humbling to watch this series. I do not think that I have felt so lucky to be an American citizen and someone who is not an immigrant. All my life I have heard stories of immigration stories, but it is different to see their struggle and plight on-screen.

My favorite storyline was of Ameer (Fayssal Bazzi) and his struggle to provide the best life for his family. He is sincere, kind and cares deeply for his family. I was reminded by my father and how he provides for us. The series exposes the problems with immigration systems as they believe Ameer to be a criminal simply because of his background.

There is a universal problem with the immigration policies of countries. Images of Latino children in cages reflect how poorly they are. This TV show furthers that, but there is a current theme that we are all human beings. Immigrants are not to be treated as less than or different, but just like how everyone should be treated. This is a major storyline with guard Cam Sandford (Jai Courtney) conflicted between his sister (pro-refugee activist) and his fellow guards.

The Barton facility (where the immigrants are held) has guards who treat the immigrants as if they are animals: there is no humanity, compassion or dignity. Furthering the theme of humanity is the character of Sofie Werner (Yvonne Strahovski). Her character portrays a contrast between the immigrants and herself. Her character is damaged because her freedoms and hopes have been destroyed, which is interesting to me. The immigrants contain all of these hopes and dreams for their futures, but in a way, she doesn't believe that her life holds anything happy or positive in store for her future.

Her scenes with Cate Blanchett and Dominic West were particularly amazing and standout moments of the show. Of course, both were scene stealers and every scene with them was amazing.

I cannot begin to sing the praises of this series! There are many different characters and themes that add many layers to the show. There is a theme of balloons, which I was not able to figure out, but that might have to do with ascendancy or being free. I love this miniseries and highly suggest it!!!