Carnivale

Set in the dustbowl era during the Great Depression, Carnivale is about a travelling carnival filled with oddities and curiosities—and a young man named Ben with a mysterious power. The striking visuals are reminiscent of a grotesque painting brought to life, rendering the barren landscapes and struggling people with a distressing beauty. Against this backdrop, the carnival troupe's eccentric personalities shine brighter, showcasing a range of compelling performances, especially Clancy Brown's chilling portrayal of a preacher with a sinister agenda.

Carnivale masterfully explores the dichotomy of good and evil through its intricate narrative with religious allusions— from biblical prophecies to apocalyptic visions. Although sometimes the pace slows down a bit, and the mythology can become a bit dense, the uniqueness of the storytelling keeps you glued. However, the show was abruptly ended after just two seasons, and some plot threads were left unresolved, leaving a sense of unfulfillment.

If you love shows like The Leftovers or Twin Peaks that dwell in theological dilemmas and surreal aesthetics, Carnivale is a richly-layered, visually-stunning piece of television that may have slipped under your radar. It's a grim, yet enchanting journey into the heart of darkness, filled with bizarre characters and profound themes that is still worth the visit despite its unfinished status.