Amazon Prime’s 'Upload' is an unparalleled sitcom
Courtesy of Deccan Herald
In the year 2033, our lives will be completely digitized from self-driving cars to virtual reality afterworlds – or at least that is what life is like in Amazon Prime’s original series “Upload.” Released in early May, the series follows Nathan, played by Robbie Amell, as he navigates life after death in a society run by technology.
After a fatal car accident, Nathan is “uploaded” to Lakeview, a digital afterlife for the privileged. Upon waking up for this first day of the rest of his virtual life, he is welcomed with the voice of his customer service representative, Nora, who initially goes by the name “Angel.” As a customer service representative for Lakeview, Nora monitors the lives of Nathan and various other uploads, providing them with whatever they need. With a virtual reality headset, Nora is able to enter Lakeview and walk among the dead, forming friendships and even romantic relationships with those no longer living.
Nathan and Nora’s lives become deeply intertwined as Nathan adjusts to his new life and being stuck in a complicated relationship while Nora attempts to convince her sickly father to choose a digital afterlife. This is not only a love story that can easily be compared to the movie “Her,” but also a story about murder, privilege and personal growth. “Upload” is like a satirical version of “Westworld” or “Black Mirror.” It portrays this digital society in a way that is more similar to “The Sims” than it is to a typical dystopia.
Created by Greg Daniels, who is best known for hit shows “Parks and Recreation” and “The Office,” it is no surprise that “Upload” tells a story that is both dark and hilarious. There are moments where the viewer is left contemplating the unfairness of death, and then within a split second the show brings light and humor to an otherwise bleak subject.
The cast is what makes the show truly amazing. Amell plays the complex character of Nathan perfectly, capturing both the tragic and the charming elements of his character. Andy Allo, who plays Nora, also excels in her role. Allo has made a name for herself as a singer-songwriter, but her acting skills really shine in “Upload.” The chemistry between Amell and Allo is electric, and despite the less-than-normal circumstance of their budding relationship, it is impossible not to swoon when the two are on screen together.
On the surface, this is a show about life and romance in an age where technology rules, but at its core it exposes human struggles that even in the year 2020 we can relate to. Jealousy, financial struggles and mourning the loss of someone close are interwoven within the plot. With its comedic and dark elements, Amazon Prime’s “Upload” is one of the best new series of 2020.
