HBO set the trend for networks to begin pushing the boundaries with their TV shows. They became so successful at this, that other networks like Starz and Showtime started to follow. Everything began though, with Oz. Surprising though it may be, there’s still so many viewers that are unaware of its existence. In 1997, Oz was HBO’s first experimentation with one hour dramas. The success of Oz, a prison themed series, led HBO down a road to greatness of which they’ve never looked back on.
Movie and TV fans might feel they have some idea of what prison may be like after having seen projects such as American History X, The Shawshank Redemption, or even Orange is the New Black. All of the above undoubtedly have told their narratives with little to no fluff. Oz however was the first real opportunity for television networks to push the envelope with what they were willing to show on a series. There is no censorship, it’s graphic, and most of the time, realistic. Though it at times leans in a less than realistic direction, Oz is for the most part the closest depiction of what former prisoners claim the life to be all about. Narrated by Augustus Hill (Harold Perrineau) from the comfort of his wheelchair, the prisoner provides the audience satirical context about life within the cell block known as Emerald City.
Drugs, sex, murder, and power are all major focus points that coincide with life inside the walls of Oz.
The structure of the show is the most interesting part. Each episode is almost like a short story with a specific theme related to prison culture. Drugs, sex, murder, and power are all major focus points that coincide with life inside the walls of Oz. Even with each separate theme, the writers are able to weave mini storylines together for the characters throughout each season. The characters are also fascinating. As is true with real prison, many who come in do not come out alive, standing to reason some don’t live out the series. Of those who do or don’t, there’re a few standouts. The storyline of Tobias Beecher (Lee Tergesen) is exceptionally well developed over the course of the show. Beecher’s journey from straight edge to hardened prisoner is a true to life depiction both in script and in Tergesen’s performance. Dean Winters’ (Ryan O’Reilly) tenure as a scheming psychopath throughout each story line is also well showcased thanks to the writing team. Then of course there’s Tim McManus (Terry Kinney) who oversees Oz. His mission to inspire change and real rehabilitation is an authentic portrayal of a true idealist.
This is merely a sample of what awaits any who are brave enough to sit down for Oz. Watching Oz is a journey that will test wits and even lend perspective, though, it’s not an easy experience to endure. It can be cruel and incredibly depressing at times, but it is hardly possible to question its brilliance. It may have even been ahead of its time. Be that as it may, interested viewers can check out Oz on HBO Max.
