christopher m butler
I'm terribly disappointed that this series was canceled. But for those that appreciate historical fiction featuring exciting and unexpected plot twists and award-worthy acting, the two seasons of this series are worth your entertainment dollar. I was particularly appreciative of the setting of this story - 1860s Five Points district of New York. The Civil War is still raging, yet the story focuses on the civilian lives of a handful of well-developed characters, living on different sides of the tracks, so to speak. Two major themes are explored: the plight of newly freed slaves and the rising influence of Irish immigrants in New York. Both themes are explored against a backdrop extreme bifurcation of society between "haves" and "have-nots," as well as corruption in the city government, local government, and police department. I rated this series a 9 out of 10 partly because I appreciate the treatment of an under-appreciated part of American history. If you don't like historical fiction, it's unlikely you'll agree with my "9." But in the end, people watch television series because they like the story, the characters, or both. I enjoyed both tremendously.
kedenbird
Great Series ! Meticulously researched as to historic accuracy. 1864 NYC.The sets and costumes are fantastic and truly represent the period. We think of these people living a distant past yet we see through COPPER that their lives are very much like our own. A rough and tumble period it was; civil war, crime, class and race struggle and just good and not so good folks trying to survive.This series is so well made I am surprised it did not win more awards. I can't wait for the next season.Don't miss it. If you like COPPER you will enjoy RIPPER STREET (BBC) very much as well.Rick
farmergilesuk
What the Hell's kitchen were they thinking of cancelling Copper? A third season shelved on such a cliff hanger, when the story was really gaining momentum, and just as Billy Baldwin showed up and confirmed he hadn't flat lined. Maybe a new TV commercial for a network provider beckons for Kevin Bacon's best mate, know what I mean? Anyway it was good to see his sleazy return to our screens, if only for a short while. Copper was a great series, not as hard edged as Deadwood, or as sophisticated as Boardwalk Empire, however it was good fun. The violence was a little cartoonish at times and it certainly became a bit modest just when you thought something really awful or exciting should have happened. That said, it really left the viewer wanting to know more about the characters and indeed the actors, who more or less did a great job, especially Kevin Ryan, who plays Detective Francis Maguire. He displayed just the right mix of brooding malice and dogmatic honour that made him really fun and interesting to watch.The first series starts off well and builds a good story, complete with a few historical inaccuracies and misplaced modern attitudes, but remember this is no Deadwood! Apart from a bit of violence, this was something your mother could probably tolerate. Then came the second season, which obviously must have caught a negative whiff about re-commissioning for a third, because the violence and the nudity are certainly ramped up. Now your mother may have a thing or two to say and you'd best watch it on your own first.This is a fun and lively series if you fancy a bit of period drama, that is gritty at times but never really shocking or uncomfortable to watch for anyone with a medium strength stomach. However, be warned that you will probably really enjoy it, and will need to be prepared for the disappointment of not seeing a third series!
tmk824
I had the great pleasure of studying American History at Brown University however that has made me quite picky when it comes to historical fiction whether it be in the form of a novel, movie or television series, but Copper has me thoroughly satisfied. Being a born and bred New Yorker I am always on the look out for anything related to the history of the City especially the 19th Century and this show has me sitting on the edge of my seat every week. The sets are remarkable, the characters have depth and Five Points as the backdrop is the cherry on top. I hope there is 3rd season and much more on the agenda.