March 28, 2024

The wait is almost over for Wittenberg’s Netflix junkies who have been eagerly awaiting the third season release of the award-winning series “House of Cards” on Feb. 27.
The show is centered on Frank Underwood’s, Congressman from South Carolina and House Majority Whip, rise to power in Washington, D.C.
I think what stands out about “House of Cards” is its exceptionally multi-dimensional cast.
Underwood, played by Kevin Spacey, is one of the most fascinating characters ever written for television.
What amazes me about watching Underwood is how he morphs into a normal person to impress and manipulate those around him. He even manages to fool the viewer even when we know better. Underwood is a monster at his core, but a master at hiding it.
Underwood’s Shakespearian asides to the camera draw you into the conspiracy and dare you to root for the bad guy.
The second most fascinating aspect of “House of Cards” is Underwood’s wife, Claire, played by Robin Wright.
“I love that woman. I love her more than sharks love blood,” Underwood says at the beginning of the first season.
Underwood’s wife is just as intelligent, conniving and dangerous as her husband. Together, they are a well-oiled machine.
Claire Underwood tends to be the archetypal Lady Macbeth character. She pushes her husband to pursue power and is often an integral part of his schemes.
Underwood is also a powerhouse in her own right. She openly undermines her husband when it is in her best interests and even contemplates leaving him. She has her own career as a lobbyist and isn’t willing to sacrifice it for his political ambitions.
The scarcity of strong women characters in media makes Underwood a welcome change. She isn’t likable, but her ability to get what she wants is enviable. Underwood is a great example of a woman who is confident enough to maneuver in the political world usually dominated by men.
The intrigue in “House of Cards” is over-the-top. The show has been criticized for being too cynical about democracy.
In the Underwoods’ Washington, people are killed to cover up mistakes, corruption is rampant, and every move is high stakes.
If you are looking for an accurate portrayal of American politics I would suggest C-SPAN.
If you are looking for great drama, cozy up on your futon and binge on “House of Cards.”

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