HALO: SEASON ONE
Starring: Pablo Schreiber, Shabana Azmi, Natascha McElhone, Bokeem Woodbine, Natasha Culzac, Olive Gray, Yerin Ha, Bentley Kalu, Kate Kennedy, Charlie Murphy, Danny Sapani, and Jen Taylor
Creators: Steve Kane and Kyle Killen
QUENTIN
With established mythology and Pablo Schreiber as Master Chief, Halo had a lot of potential. However, it’s mostly undone by an air of cheapness that prevented me from getting wrapped up in it. Honestly, it feels like something from late-90s syndication (think early Stargate SG-1). I hope this makes sense, but the sets look like manufactured sets, not lived-in worlds…like, it was very obvious I was watching a television show, y’know? Schreiber is solid in the role at times, but it’s also hard to take him seriously because his costume is so cumbersome (and plastic-looking) that it affects how he walks. Ultimately, another mediocre video game adaption.
AMARÚ
Halo’s first couple of episodes are reminiscent of 90s action films like Demolition Man: a fast-paced, action packed good time. But as the story evolves, the drama and mystery reach beyond what any video game property is expected to be. The political intrigue, dramatic storylines, and great performances are given as much care as the intense action and intricate sci-fi. Pablo Schreiber and Natascha McElhone are particularly engaging, while Bokeem Woodbine sustains the cool Sly & Arnie-like vibe. Halo deftly balances drama, action, sci-fi, and thriller elements to become one of the surprise series of 2022.