As a writer of NW historical romance (I write other romantic subgenres, too and now women’s fiction), I've researched and driven across parts of the US and Canada. After seeing Hill on Wheels, I have more appreciation for the railroads traveling beside me, the difficulties of their creation. As a writer, I also appreciate the complexity of the series story-weaving, character and lives blending into a seamless piece of work. Hell on Wheels is a good study for any writer, and the editing is great, too, just enough rest and appreciate scenes vs action, segways also great.
Big Note Here: if possible, everyone should drive and explore the United States. I've driven the Oregon Trail, the Cariboo trail, studied the North West Mounted Police, the Voyagers and for traders, and some of the forts. We've got wonderful history out there, and you can almost feel the settlers pushing themselves, animals and wagons westward. The actual diaries are wonderful, filled with color, desperation and hopes.
As viewers move through different lives, connections, and deals, Anton Mount fills the bill as Hell on Wheels’ continuing series star. In his role as Cullen Bohanan, I see the very cat-like, athletic movements of the old-time Western stars, such as Burt Lancaster and Richard Widmark. The actor fit to the role is super. Whomever the casting director and/or staff is, they've done a wonderful job too. You can feel the intensity and relationship between the actors. The period costumes, weapons, sets, etc. were great, as well as the cars in the railroad. And oh my, the weather which included muddy streets, some of which people rolled in, and the scene at Truckee Pass deep with snow. I don't know where that was filmed on site, but I have driven that area/pass and appreciate the efforts taken in that scene.
Through the series, we see the people, age, change, die/or move on with their lives; it's a flow, a braid of different lives. Attention was given to the different cultures, too, which I appreciated, i.e. the underpayment of Chinese workers, human trafficking and slavery dynamics upon the workers. Also seeing Colm Meaney (Doc) maneuvering his railroad business deals, shifting around political/business dynamics was fascinating. I am not certain if/or the real character upon which his character may be based.
Take a look at Robin McLeavy’s character Eva’s costume. If that isn’t steampunk style… Also her character’s use of herbs etc., uncommonly specific in films. She's hardened by life, yet compassionate, too. Excellent characterization.
The series editing also struck me. If it didn't count for texture/story line, it wasn't there. Too often we writers be so entranced with researching details and we forget we are writing a novel, rather than a history book.
Hell on Wheels equals good entertainment. Thank you all.
