What is the Severance TV Show About?
The Severance TV show, which premiered on Apple TV+ in 2022, is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the lives of employees at a fictional company called Lumon. The series, created by Star Trek: Discovery writer and producer Bruce Miller, explores themes of identity, memory, and corporate control through a unique and innovative narrative structure.
In the show, the employees of Lumon undergo a surgical procedure that removes their memories of their personal lives, leaving them with only their work-related memories. The procedure is designed to enhance productivity and eliminate stress, but it also has profound effects on the characters’ identities and relationships. The series follows the employees as they navigate their new reality, struggling to maintain their sense of self while working for a company that is seemingly determined to control every aspect of their lives.
The show’s unique format is one of its most compelling aspects. Each episode is divided into two halves, with the first half taking place in the fictional world of Lumon and the second half in the employees’ “real” lives. This structure creates a sense of disorientation and intrigue, as viewers are constantly questioning the boundaries between reality and fiction.
The characters in Severance are complex and well-developed, each with their own unique struggles and motivations. The main character, Mark Benecke (played by Chris Walken), is a middle-aged man who is deeply affected by the procedure. As he tries to reconnect with his wife and daughter, he is also torn between his loyalty to the company and his desire to uncover the truth about the procedure and its origins.
The series also delves into the ethical implications of memory manipulation and the potential dangers of corporate control. As the employees begin to question the nature of their reality, they must also confront the moral dilemmas presented by their altered memories and the lengths to which they are willing to go to reclaim their identities.
Overall, Severance is a thought-provoking and engaging TV show that challenges viewers to question the nature of reality and the role of technology in our lives. With its innovative narrative structure, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, it is sure to be a hit with fans of psychological thrillers and science fiction alike.
