The Last Ship gains popularity and stays afloat on TNT
They’re stranded - at sea. Not by powerful winds or heavy rains, nor by savage pirates or mechanical errors, but by an invisible force consuming entire continents in a matter of weeks. The Last Ship, a TNT drama, tells the story of an American Navy crew in this very position.
With nearly eighty percent of the global population already dead, the Red Flu continues to ravage the planet, returning humanity to its former barbaric state. Anarchy dominates as national governments crumble to dust amidst starving, desperate bands of people. Ordered to return home from a mission in the Arctic, Captain Tom Chandler uses his better judgement, deciding instead to keep the USS Nathan James abroad. Separated from their loved ones and uncertain of the future, the ship’s resolute crew nevertheless directs their attention to the single saving hope- a cure. Led by virologist Dr. Rachel Scott, they set up a lab at sea and begin research.
However, armed forces aboard the U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer rush to general quarters more than once as they encounter numerous opposition forces seeking to hinder or manipulate the world’s reconstruction for their personal benefit. At the forefront of every episode resides universal, timeless themes regarding family, friendship, loss, faith, tenacity, and altruism.
One of the show’s greatest attributes is that the characters, although taking on significant roles respective to the world crisis, remain relatable humans with a full spectrum of emotions. Fans will find themselves anxiously awaiting the next episode, always having a place to be on Sunday nights at 9 o’clock - with their heroes, salvaging remaining supplies and people to return the world to its former glory, all while curbing corrupt societies threatening to finish what the virus started.
The cast brings to the show its exceptional talent, so much so that fans may find it difficult to imagine the actors as anyone but their characters in The Last Ship. Actor Eric Dane (former star on Grey’s Anatomy) fills the leading role of Captain Tom Chandler, accompanied by co-stars Rhona Mitra as Dr. Rachel Scott, Adam Baldwin as Executive Officer Mike Slattery, and Travis van Winkle as Lieutenant Danny Green. Marissa Neitling (known for her role in the movie San Andreas) Christina Elmore, Australian actor Bren Foster, Jocko Sims, Hiroyuki Sanada, and Charles Parnell also bring the characters to life with their hard work.
Based on the 1988 novel The Last Ship by William Brinkley, the show’s first episode premiered June 22, 2014, and is currently in its third season. The leaders behind the TNT drama’s success are author Steven Kane and executive producers Michael Bay (director of Transformers), Andrew Form, and Bradley Fuller, co-owners of the production company Platinum Dunes. Hank Steinberg, Jonathan Mostow, and Jack Bender (director on Lost and Game of Thrones), also combine their talent and experience to produce this captivating television series.
Receiving a rating of 7.4/10 on IMDb and 8.3/10 on TV.com, The Last Ship boasts an impressive reputation in the entertainment industry, but has not yet captured the attention of its entire potential audience. More viewers should watch the show due to its satisfying collaboration between admirable female and male leads, as well as an intricate plot involving multiple political powers at work.
Furthermore, the emphasis on moral debates, leadership methods, and decision making adds a thought-provoking aspect to complement the show’s action-packed scenes. The show will provide a great source of entertainment for those who enjoy dramas and critical thinking. Overall, viewers should not hesitate to invest their time in watching The Last Ship.
