Watch 12 Monkeys
- TV-14
- 2015
- 4 Seasons
-
7.7 (50,014)
12 Monkeys is a science fiction series that premiered on Syfy in 2015 and ended in 2018 after four seasons. The show is a reimagining of Terry Gilliam's 1995 film of the same name, which was based on Chris Marker's 1962 short film La Jetée. The series was created by Travis Fickett and Terry Matalas and tells the story of James Cole (Aaron Stanford), a time traveler sent back in time from the year 2043 to prevent the release of a deadly virus that was unleashed in 2017, wiping out most of humanity, and forcing the survivors to live underground.
At the beginning of the series, James Cole is a prisoner in the year 2043 who is offered a chance to earn a pardon if he travels back in time to gather information about the release of the virus. Initially, Cole is sent back to 2015, where he meets Dr. Cassandra Railly (Amanda Schull), a virologist who becomes his ally in his mission to prevent the release of the virus. Together, Cole and Railly work to uncover the secrets of the shadowy organization known as the Army of the 12 Monkeys, who are responsible for the virus.
As the series progresses, Cole and Railly travel through different time periods, trying to change events that will alter the course of history and prevent the release of the virus. They face numerous obstacles on their journey, including other time travelers who are also attempting to change history for their own purposes and the Army of the 12 Monkeys, who will stop at nothing to ensure the virus is released.
In addition to Cole and Railly, the series features a diverse cast of characters, including Deacon (Todd Stashwick), the leader of a group of scavengers in the post-apocalyptic future; Jennifer Goines (Emily Hampshire), the daughter of one of the key scientists involved in the development of the virus; and Jennifer's eccentric and prophetic friend, Pallid Man (Tom Noonan), who becomes a key player in the battle between the time travelers and the Army of the 12 Monkeys.
One of the hallmarks of 12 Monkeys is its intricate and often mind-bending plotting. The show is known for its use of time loops, paradoxes, and alternate timelines, which can sometimes make it challenging for viewers to keep track of what is happening. However, the series is also praised for its strong character development and the complex relationships that develop between the main characters as they navigate the challenges of time travel and the threat of the virus.
Another notable aspect of 12 Monkeys is its visually stunning production design. The show makes extensive use of special effects and CGI to create the various time periods that Cole and Railly travel to, from the desolate wasteland of the post-apocalyptic future to the decadence of the 1920s and the dystopian future of 2043. The series also employs interesting editing techniques, including split-screen shots and flashbacks, to keep the audience engaged in the story.
Overall, 12 Monkeys is a gripping and thought-provoking science fiction series that offers a unique take on the time travel genre. The show features compelling performances from its cast and a dynamic visual style that helps to bring its complex and ambitious storytelling to life. For fans of science fiction and time travel stories, the series is a must-watch, offering a thrilling and emotionally resonant journey through time and space.
12 Monkeys is a series that ran for 4 seasons (48 episodes) between January 16, 2015 and on Syfy