With every television show that dares transport its characters inexplicably into the past, there are always going to be comparisons to Game of Thrones. Especially when it’s the biggest television show at the moment, soaring back to our screens on Monday. You take mystery and mystical elements, then film it on the murky shores of Scotland and, bam, you’ll immediately think of the romping good show. Outlander seems to have ensnared a different element to it that feels somewhat departed from the aforementioned series despite the fact that it just can’t help showing some blood and boobs - a staple of shows filmed way back in the past.
Claire is an intriguing heroine and protagonist to follow. She is fully fleshed out, meaning her capabilities and frustrations are matched. She is stuffy and pompous, yet intelligent and helpful. Enthusing knowledge she learnt from her prior life in a more modern era and applying them to her surroundings, she is able to adapt to survive. Played effortlessly and sublimely by Caitriona Baife, Claire is the sort of strong willed yet flawed character that you can’t help but warm too.
That being said, the story is unfolding in a rather pleasant way that has us wondering who the allies actually are (except Randall, because Randall is a dick who just happens to look like Claire’s husband. Which somehow makes him more of a dick). Not to mention the score is unforgettable. Outlander is excellent and the period costume and drama all twist together nicely with just the right amount of enthral to keep us continuing.