Apple’s new thriller, “The Last Frontier,” set in the vast Alaska wilderness, takes viewers on a journey that mixes espionage with action. Unlike HBO’s “True Detective: Night Country,” which expertly weaved local folklore into a captivating mystery, “The Last Frontier” adopts a lighter, sometimes campy approach. The series features U.S. Marshal Frank Remnick, portrayed by Jason Clarke, who returns to Fairbanks after a harrowing experience in Chicago.
Plot Overview
The series kicks off dramatically with a CGI plane crash that releases a horde of convicts into the snowy terrain. Frank finds himself battling these escaped criminals at a familiar one-episode-at-a-time pace, reminiscent of classic procedural shows. The plot, conceived by Jon Bokenkamp, the creator of “The Blacklist,” is filled with action but is ultimately held back by a convoluted espionage storyline.
Key Characters
- Frank Remnick: U.S. Marshal returning to Fairbanks.
- Sidney Scofield: CIA operative played by Haley Bennett.
- Levi Hartman: CIA asset, portrayed by Dominic Cooper, who is central to the espionage plot.
- Hutch: Frank’s deputy, played by Dallas Goldtooth.
- Sarah: Frank’s wife, a nurse played by Simone Kessell.
- Alfre Woodard and John Slattery: portrayed as CIA superiors to Sidney.
Critique of the Espionage Plot
The show introduces a key character, an agency asset codenamed “Havlock,” tied to both main protagonists. While he is initially presented as a menacing figure, the ensuing storyline quickly turns convoluted. The series shifts focus from the thrill of the chase to a drawn-out plot involving office politics, stolen databases, and vague threats of Russian hackers.
Action Scenes and Set Pieces
Despite its flaws, “The Last Frontier” finds moments of exhilaration. The series includes thrilling action sequences involving snowmobiles, horses, and helicopters that occasionally boost viewer engagement. There’s a particularly unforgettable stunt where a truck dangles perilously over an icy cliff, reminiscent of high-octane films.
Character Dynamics
Frank’s backstory, including a troubled marriage and aspirations to run a bed and breakfast, adds some charm. However, the chemistry between Bennett and Cooper feels lacking. As the season progresses, the focus on Sidney’s background overshadows the more exciting elements of the series.
Streaming Information
The first two episodes of “The Last Frontier” are currently available for streaming on Apple TV+, with new episodes released weekly on Fridays. While the show begins with high potential, it risks losing its gripping narrative as it delves deeper into bureaucratic themes.
Overall, “The Last Frontier” dazzles with its Alaskan setting and action-packed sequences but struggles to maintain a cohesive and engaging storyline throughout its episodes.
