Waco: A review

Occasionally we write about other things than the Bundesliga and this is one of those times as we review the Paramount Network's minsieries, Waco.

Waco was based on the standoff between the notorious Branch Davidian cult/sect/group leader David Koresh and the FBI. While there has been an abundance of documentary-type features about Koresh floating through channels on cable, this was a unique attempt to recreate the personalities and saga that captivated the nation 25 years ago.

There were a number of strong performances from the cast, notably from Taylor Kitsch as David Koresh, Michael Shannon as FBI negotiator Gary Noesner, Paul Sparks as Branch Davidian Steve Schneider, Shea Wigham as FBI antagonist Mitch Decker, Rory Culkin as Branch Davidian David "Thibs" Thibodeau, Glenn Fleshler as FBI buffoon Tony Prince, and Andrea Riseborough as Branch Davidian Judy Schneider; but it was also exceptionally well-done for television.

The writing was excellent as the story progressed and never stagnated with unnecessary asides or inconsequential conflicts. In addition, the production was top-notch. What we were most interested in, however, was to see how the climax would be handled. Would it take an FBI-leaning spin or tell the story from the Branch Davidian side? Truthfully, it captured both magnificently, but came out against the public story as was presented by the FBI (mass suicide by the Branch Davidians) and more on what the surviving Branch Davidians believed happened (tear gas being ignited into flames from lanterns that were knocked over). Conspiracy theorists openly debunk the FBI's reports, while government officials and some historians stand-by the FBI's findings. Whatever the case, it made for a fascinating watch.

Most importantly to a viewer, this was not a HUGE time investment. It was a five-episode season that moved quickly and gave insight on the plight of the "cult", the FBI antagonists, and the world surrounding them. We highly recommend this as binge watch material and would not be shocked if you found yourself doing a little internet research to find out more of the inner-workings of what really happened on a desolate plain of Texas land some 25 years ago.

#TV #Waco #Koresh