I'm Watching…Fortitude, Togetherness
Perched on the edge of the Arctic Circle, Fortitude is one of the safest towns on earth. There has never been a violent crime here. Until now.
Fortitude, a UK psychological thriller, is a super trippy show. The first episode is kind of confusing, and to be honest, boring, until everything is set up. I wasn't even sure what I was watching - if it's sci-fi, a straight up murder mystery or a genre mash up.
I'm 6 episodes in and I'm still not 100% sure but that's what makes it so interesting. I'm invested in the characters (who are seriously f*cked up) but unsure of their motives or where this all might be headed.
The polar landscape makes for an interesting, desolate backdrop and the seemingly simple town of Fortitude has many secrets.
I watch it on Pivot but it's also on Amazon etc
Togetherness – HBO
The spark in parents Brett and Michelle Pierson's marriage is all but extinguished. When his best friend, out-of-work actor Alex, and Michelle's sister Tina move in with the Piersons in Los Angeles, the four adults try to remain good friends/siblings/spouses while achieving their personal goals: Sound designer Brett, pushing 40, wants to rediscover himself; Michelle wishes to rekindle passion for life; Tina tries to get her bounce-castle business off the ground; and Alex takes yet another shot at an acting career.
I binge watched the first 5 episodes on Sunday, and while there isn't anything particularly original about Togetherness, I think it's a really honest portrayal of marriage and parenthood.
The show is at it's best when it allows the characters to be messy or yell, revealing those really raw moments that we all feel if we're in any kind of relationship long enough.
It's at it's worst when it tries to be edgy, the masturbation jokes – the wife trying to reenact 50 Shades of Grey with her husband to spice up their marriage. Those moments feel forced and like – hey! We're on HBO – we need to throw in some sex!
But the more honest scenes of Brett taking Michelle to a hotel overnight and they just cuddle because sex between the married couple has gotten so awkward lead to pure gold.
Togetherness isn't really drama or comedy but it has a bit of both.
Julie@My5monkeys February 25, 2015 at 9:21 AM
Yes I too am watching Fortitude and reminds me of Broadchurch a bit. I adore Stanly Tucci and this place is weird with a feeder & ice hotel and wind chimes :)
Melissa (Books and Things) February 25, 2015 at 4:18 PM
Sounds like it would be a great show if parts wasn't forced. Still, it does sound interesting. I may have to check out both of these!
Blodeuedd February 25, 2015 at 4:20 PM
Hm can't say they are for me
Amber Elise February 25, 2015 at 5:46 PM
One thing I've learned is that British shows are ALL about set up. I appreciate that their seasons are short through. Now I'm curious as to how trippy one show can possibly be (in six episodes nonetheless) so I'll have to make time for this.
Kimberly @ Caffeinated Reviewer February 25, 2015 at 11:09 PM
Oh Fortitude sounds right up my alley! I love British shows, and will look this up :)
Shooting Stars Mag February 26, 2015 at 4:09 PM
I'd never heard of Fortitude, but it sounds crazy yet kind of awesome. I do really like British shows. :)
I'm not sure about the first one, Togetherness is more my thing. Is that in Netflix?
brandileigh2003 February 26, 2015 at 6:46 PM
I don't watch either, but my interest is peaked
Aylee February 26, 2015 at 10:18 PM
I love trippy!! Always makes for great viewing :) I just love that feeling of not knowing what the heck is going on. Usually, at least... So long as it all comes together in the end. I shall check it out!
© For What It's Worth: I'm Watching…Fortitude, Togetherness