Reverie

Reverie is an engaging drama series developed by Mickey Fisher and aired on NBC that brings together elements of science fiction, action, and human emotion. Premiered in 2018, the show revolves around a highly advanced virtual reality program as its center plot with the indispensable role of various characters portrayed by talented actors including Sarah Shahi, Dennis Haysbert, Jessica Lu, Sendhil Ramamurthy, and Kathryn Morris.

Sarah Shahi plays the protagonist role of former hostage negotiator and behavioral expert, Mara Kint. The storyline unfurls as she is recruited to a new opportunity after suffering from a personal tragedy that ended her career. Her skills are essentially required by a tech company Onira-Tech, a company that has developed a revolutionary virtual reality program named "Reverie."

Reverie is not an ordinary virtual reality platform. It has the distinctive ability to read the user's subconscious mind and to create exceptionally realistic simulations based on their most loved memories. The users are able to precisely interact with the simulated versions of their loved ones who passed away, or revisit their cherished memories. However, as captivating as it sounds, the program holds an alarming drawback — it's so alluring, users are going into catatonic states, unwilling to return to the real world.

Mara's mission revolves around pulling these lost souls back to reality, navigating the picturesque yet dangerous landscapes of their minds. Dennis Haysbert plays Charlie Ventana, an ex-cop and the head of security at Onira-Tech who recruits Mara for the job. Jessica Lu portrays Alexis Barrett, an introverted technology prodigy and the creator of Reverie program. Sendhil Ramamurthy appears as Paul Hammond, the program’s code designer responsible for the psychological aspects of it, while Kathryn Morris plays Monica Shaw, a Department of Defense official with an interest in the program.

Moreover, the ethereal and aesthetic presentation of Reverie reflects both the beauty and the danger infused in the show's very concept. The program, melancholic and wonderful in its design, forms a fascinating dichotomy between the possibilities of technology and its potential consequences if left unchecked.

Reverie isn't just about the splendor of a sophisticated virtual reality universe or the peril it presents; it's also significantly invested in the human element. Memories, both joyous and remorseful, play a pivotal role in the storyline. The series effectively captures the profound human yearning to alter the past, recapture unfulfilled dreams, or simply reunite with lost ones, offering a stirring exploration of love, regret, and healing.

The mix of action, suspense, and human emotion with a tinge of sci-fi makes Reverie a distinctive show. It can sometimes feel like an elaborate virtual reality puzzle that Mara must navigate, taking the audience along a gripping journey into a digital wonderland graced by the human subconscious.

At its core, Reverie raises thought-provoking questions about technology, memory, and human nature. This intriguing narrative, complemented by well-crafted characters and impressive performances, adds a compelling depth to the series. Shahi shines as Mara, perfectly capturing her character's strength, vulnerability, and determination. The supporting cast is equally good, each bringing unique characteristics to the table.

Reverie, as a series, deftly encapsulates the potential and the peril of advanced technology. It's a tale that marries human desire with technological possibility and explores their resulting complications. The characters deal not only with the challenges of the program but also with their own personal demons, fears, dreams, and pasts. The blend of real and virtual, the power of memory and desire, and the essence of what truly makes us human all contribute to the fascinating narrative tapestry of this enthralling series.

In conclusion, Reverie from NBC presents an expertly woven, imaginative drama where advanced technology meets human emotion in a compelling narrative. With a cast that delivers strong performances and a story that retains intrigue and suspense, the show offers an engaging watch for those who love exploring the intersection between humanity and technology.