StartUp (2016–) tv series review, story and analysis
History of Construction and Production Challenges
“StartUp” is a television series that premiered in 2016. The show was created by Ben Ketai and was produced by Crackle, a streaming platform owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment. The construction of “StartUp” began with the idea of exploring the world of cryptocurrency and its implications for both legitimate businesses and criminal enterprises. The series faced challenges in accurately depicting the complexities of blockchain technology and the ethical dilemmas surrounding its use. Additionally, as a relatively new concept in mainstream media at the time, there were concerns about how to make the subject matter accessible and engaging for a wide audience.
Cast and Characters
The cast of “StartUp” features a talented ensemble of actors, each portraying characters involved in the world of cryptocurrency and organized crime. Martin Freeman stars as Phil Rask, an FBI agent investigating a potentially illegal startup company. Adam Brody plays Nick Talman, a tech entrepreneur who launches a digital currency called GenCoin. Otmara Marrero portrays Izzy Morales, a computer programmer who becomes involved in GenCoin’s development. Edi Gathegi rounds out the main cast as Ronald Dacey, a Haitian-American gangster who becomes embroiled in the world of cryptocurrency. Each actor brings depth and complexity to their role, contributing to the series’ exploration of morality, ambition, and power.
General Concept
“StartUp” follows the intertwining lives of a disparate group of characters as they become embroiled in the world of cryptocurrency and organized crime. The series explores themes of ambition, morality, and the blurred lines between legality and criminality in the digital age. Against the backdrop of Miami’s diverse and vibrant landscape, “StartUp” offers a gritty and compelling portrayal of the pursuit of wealth and power in the modern world.
Full Story
The series begins with the introduction of Nick Talman, a tech entrepreneur who creates a digital currency called GenCoin with the help of his friend Ronald Dacey. Despite their best efforts, Nick and Ronald struggle to secure funding for their startup, leading them to turn to unconventional sources for investment. Meanwhile, FBI agent Phil Rask becomes suspicious of GenCoin’s potential ties to organized crime and launches an investigation into the company’s activities.
As the series progresses, viewers are introduced to Izzy Morales, a computer programmer with a troubled past who becomes involved in GenCoin’s development. Izzy’s expertise attracts the attention of both Nick and Ronald, who see her as a valuable asset to their operation. However, Izzy’s involvement with GenCoin puts her at odds with her former employer, a powerful and corrupt businessman named Wes Chandler.
As tensions escalate between the various factions involved in GenCoin, the characters must navigate a dangerous and unpredictable landscape where loyalties are tested and alliances are formed and broken. With the FBI closing in and rival criminal organizations vying for control of the digital currency market, Nick, Izzy, and Ronald must decide where their loyalties lie and how far they are willing to go to protect their interests.
Criticism and Analysis
“StartUp” has received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its ambitious storytelling and compelling characters, while others have criticized its uneven pacing and convoluted plotlines. The series has been commended for its exploration of timely and relevant themes, including the rise of cryptocurrency and its potential for both innovation and exploitation. However, some critics have argued that the series’ ambitious scope leads to a lack of focus and coherence in its storytelling, resulting in a narrative that feels disjointed at times.
From a thematic standpoint, “StartUp” offers rich material for analysis, exploring themes of ambition, greed, and the corrupting influence of power. The series raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of entrepreneurship and the moral and ethical responsibilities of those who seek to disrupt established systems and institutions. Through its portrayal of the characters’ struggles and conflicts, “StartUp” offers a compelling and insightful commentary on the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.
Opinion of Critics and Position Among Other Similar Series
“StartUp” has garnered a dedicated fan base and remains popular among viewers who appreciate its ambitious storytelling and complex characters. However, the series has struggled to achieve the same level of critical acclaim and mainstream success as some of its counterparts. While it has been compared favorably to other crime dramas and thrillers, such as “Breaking Bad” and “The Sopranos,” “StartUp” has yet to establish itself as a standout entry in the genre.
In terms of its position among other similar series, “StartUp” stands out as a unique and distinctive take on the world of entrepreneurship and organized crime. While there are other series that explore similar themes of ambition, power, and morality, “StartUp” distinguishes itself with its focus on the world of cryptocurrency and its implications for both legitimate businesses and criminal enterprises. With its compelling characters, gritty atmosphere, and timely themes, “StartUp” holds its own as a must-watch series for fans of crime dramas and thrillers.
Similar Series
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- “Breaking Bad” – This critically acclaimed drama series follows a high school chemistry teacher who turns to cooking methamphetamine after being diagnosed with terminal cancer, exploring themes of morality, ambition, and the consequences of one’s actions.
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- “Sneaky Pete” – This crime drama series follows a con artist who assumes the identity of his former cellmate in order to evade a dangerous gangster, leading him into a world of deception, betrayal, and unexpected alliances.
