“Transatlantic,” a beautiful Netflix series, is inspired by Julie Orringer’s novel, “The Flight Portfolio.” This historical fiction revolves around the true story of Varian Fry and the Emergency Rescue Committee, which saved hundreds during World War II.
The show, created by Anna Winger and Daniel Hendler, spans seven episodes and offers a blend of Old Hollywood charm while highlighting underappreciated heroes from a crucial time in history. While rooted in reality, “Transatlantic” takes creative liberties, portraying the events with a mix of style, romance, and occasional humor.
The plot centers on two Americans and their allies who, in 1940s Marseilles, form a rescue operation to help artists, writers, and other refugees fleeing Europe during WWII.
The show’s cast is particularly intriguing due to its international composition, lending authenticity to the narrative. Gillian Jacobs stars as Mary Jayne Gold, a Chicago heiress who uses her wealth to assist the Emergency Rescue Committee. Cory Michael Smith plays Varian Fry, the committee’s leader, navigating the challenges posed by Vichy France and the American government.
Other notable cast members include Lucas Englander as Albert Hirschman, a Jewish refugee, Amit Rahav as Thomas Lovegrove, another Jewish refugee aiding the cause, and Ralph Amoussou as Paul Kandjo, a concierge who assists in the rescue efforts. Deleila Piasko portrays Lisa Fittko, a refugee involved in the operation, while Corey Stoll plays Graham Patterson, an American consul with conflicting interests. Gregory Montel rounds out the primary cast as Philippe Frot, a French police commissioner opposed to the rescue mission.
The historical accuracy of “Transatlantic” is balanced with fiction. While many characters are based on real people like Varian Fry, Mary Jayne Gold, and Albert Hirschman, others are fictional composites designed to represent broader groups. The series blends true events with fictionalized romances, adding an element of “what if” to the storyline.
Visually, “Transatlantic” is stunning, with impressive costumes, authentic French filming locations, and beautiful cinematography. The series also features appearances by famous historical figures such as Peggy Guggenheim and Marcel Duchamp, exciting for fans of Surrealism and WWII history.
The performances are compelling, thanks to the diverse international cast. The show cleverly integrates various languages, enriching the narrative with authenticity. The plot is engaging, featuring spies, resistance fighters, refugees, and artists, keeping viewers hooked through all seven episodes.
Romantic subplots, though fictional, add depth. The main pairings include Mary Jayne and Albert, Varian and Thomas, and Paul and Lisa, each bringing its own emotional weight despite their fictional nature.
Overall, “Transatlantic” is a visually delightful series with a mix of romance, historical intrigue, and engaging characters. While it may not reach the artistic heights of classic films like “Casablanca,” it offers a fresh look at often-overlooked historical figures and their heroics during WWII.
You can stream “Transatlantic” on Netflix, with a TV-14 rating for some violence, sensuality, thematic elements, and language. If you’re into period dramas, this series is a worthwhile watch.
