Timeless is a sci-fi drama series that premiered on NBC in 2016. The series follows the trio of Lucy Preston, Rufus Carlin and Wyatt Logan as they attempt to stop the token villain, Garcia Flynn, from changing the course of American history through the use of a time machine. Upon hearing the premise of the show, I was immediately skeptical and my thoughts drifted towards the CW’s DC Legends of Tomorrow. The shows have obvious parallels such as the use of a time machine and dynamic characters who chase a villain through time. Nevertheless, I gave Timeless and try and I’m glad that I did as there are some great elements in the show that differentiated it from other dramas.
There’s a strong female lead.
Lucy Preston, portrayed by Abigail Spencer, is an exceptionally bright history professor who holds the entire group together. Although each of the three main characters brings something to the table, her knowledge of history and strong personality sets her as the natural leader of the group. Without giving away any spoilers, I find it refreshing that she works towards a goal throughout the series and doesn’t focus on pursuing a man. (You’ll have to watch to see how this unfolds.) Furthermore, her character has a visible evolution throughout the series from the classic know-it-all who is fearful of breaking the rules, to a woman who begins to think for herself. It’s refreshing to have a strong female character who learns to hold her own.
The three leads have good chemistry together.
Casting choices make or break a show, and I think that Timeless had nailed it with a trio that connects well together. As the series progresses, the three main protagonists grow more fond of each other and eventually form a close bond. Now, this may be a typical characteristic of many hit television shows, but it’s unique how Timeless takes the time to point this factor out on numerous occasions throughout the show. Lucy, Wyatt and Rufus bring together different elements that all work together seamlessly. Lucy is the smart historian who is afraid of breaking rules. Wyatt is a soldier who lost his wife and is questioning what he’s living for, and Rufus is the genius who made time travel possible as well as comical while still remaining serious at times.
The lines between good and evil are blurred.
One of the elements of this show is that good and evil are not always clearly defined. Often times on television, there will be a clear villain without any goodness in them. In Timeless, the main characters are often questioning what is right as the intentions of the mysterious entity of Rittenhouse is unraveled. There are many times in the show when the characters (and viewers) are positioned to agree with the views of Garcia Flynn. Even more so, there are times when the viewers begin to question authority figures in the show and develop unique thoughts. It’s rare that a show will cause you send you into deep thoughts.
The show deals with heavy issues.
Albeit comically, Rufus often confronts the historical treatment of African Americans in many periods of America’s history. Typically, television shows deal with racial tensions by demonstrating racism in scenarios and basing the character’s reaction to the situation. It’s interesting how Timeless not only does that, but it also comes right out and says what everyone is thinking. On a different note, Wyatt embodies PTSD from his days in the army. With mental health issues being talked about more and more in our society, it’s no surprise that they are making an appearance on television. It’s interesting how the show doesn’t portray Wyatt’s PTSD as a problem with an easy solution, as mental disorders are sometimes portrayed as it other shows. Each character has their own set of problems to work through, which makes them more human and more relatable to viewers.
The show incorporates little-known historical facts.
Rather than deal with the basic historic facts that everyone is familiar with, Timeless takes little-known historical facts and uses them as main plot points. In the facts presented, it’s obvious that NBC took the time to be historically accurate, which is something that many viewers appreciate. Of course, there are some classic famous people in history featured such as Benedict Arnold, Abraham Lincoln, and Bonnie and Clyde. There are also many historical events that we don’t remember so well such as the crash of the Hindenburg, the world’s fair, and Jesse James among other events. For all the history lovers out there, this aspect of the show is incredibly interesting.
A ‘ship-worthy couple.
Although it took a season to develop, the relationship between Wyatt and Lucy develops into something more than friendship. Their relationship slowly builds in tension throughout the first season, making you want them to get together already! They are truly a cute and realistic couple and we can’t wait to see where they will go next.
Give Timeless a try!
Thumbnail image via NBC