The show "Citadel" has a vintage spy feel with modern lead actors, Richard Madden from "Game of Thrones" and Priyanka Chopra Jonas from "Quantico," as well as cutting-edge action scenes. While the time-twisting plot may lack originality, the series is a straightforward and engaging drama that should appeal to Amazon's audience, much like "Jack Ryan" and "Reacher." But does it have enough originality to stand out from the crowd?
The story begins with the revelation that the top-secret spy organization known as Citadel was dismantled eight years ago. The show's protagonists, Mason Kane (Madden) and Nadia Sinh (Chopra Jonas), were once a daring and romantic duo within the agency.
Fast forward to the present, Kane is leading a peaceful life with no recollection of his past until he is unexpectedly pulled back into the spy world. With the help of his former Citadel partner, Bernard Orlick (Stanley Tucci), he must rely on his muscle memory and fleeting memories to stay alive.
As the show progresses, viewers are left wondering what happened to Citadel, who is behind the current threat, and who can be trusted. These familiar themes propel the plot forward, as the series is produced by the Russo brothers, known for their work on the "Avengers" franchise, and showrunner David Weil ("Hunters").
Richard Madden's charm, on display in his role as Mason Kane, adds to the excitement around his rumored potential as a future James Bond. Priyanka Chopra Jonas, while not as prominent, still impresses in action sequences that rival those of big-budget films.
Although the show finds humor in Kane's memory loss, the espionage element takes center stage. The series blends the styles of classic spy shows like "The Man From U.N.C.L.E." and "Mission: Impossible" with impressive explosions and stunts, elevating it above typical TV productions. The action sequences have a "Bourne" feel, thanks to their kinetic energy. Still, some of these scenes feel generic.
Amazon has invested heavily in producing content for their streaming service, and "Citadel" is a clear attempt to appeal to action fans. This genre has been more successful for Prime Video, as seen in their adaptations of Tom Clancy and Lee Child book series, rather than in splashy fantasy and sci-fi shows (with the exception of "The Boys").
The show's plan to produce different versions around the world is an interesting concept but ultimately, "Citadel" must stand on its own. As an escapist spy series, it succeeds in entertaining its audience... for now.
"Citadel" premieres on Amazon's Prime Video on April 28.
