By Blake Laurita
Staff Writer
The fifth season of the emmy-nominated show, “House of Cards” did what most critics deemed impossible by surpassing the masterpiece that was the fourth season.
“House of Cards” season 5 is very well-produced, with elite acting accompanied by a signature soundtrack and ground-breaking development of every major character. The core of the show has always been the complex and intriguing intricacies of the relationships of the main characters, which has increased tenfold in the new series.
The show picks up right where it left off, a few days before an election during a decisive time for United States. Frank Underwood, the current president of the United States, strikes fear into the hearts of Americans by using terrorism as a ploy to move the election into the hands of Congress and out of the peoples’, as he knew a loss was inevitable.
The show mainly takes place in Washington D.C., much like the previous 4 seasons. Some of this season takes place in Russia, as the White House is in communication with Kremlin during the second half of the season.
Photos: The new season offers a direct continuation from where season four left off.
One of the show’s selling points is its plot, which is very realistic and mirrors the corrupt backroom deals in modern day politics. It has intelligent twists and turns, like when Underwood fabricates terrorist attacks from ICO, a terrorist group, in order to consolidate power.
Another highlight of the show is the soundtrack, which adds suspense to the most intense scenes. The signature introductory song sets the mood for the rest of the episode, creating tension and association. Produced by Jeff Beal, the brilliant soundtrack helps keep the show grounded and places an emphasis on the most important moments.
Video: The fifth season follows Frank Underwood’s journey to the presidency and his epic struggle to maintain it and was released May 30, 2017 on Netflix. The trailer shows some of the season’s most exciting moments.
While “House of Cards” mainly focuses on Underwood and Claire Underwood’s relationship throughout the season, the show does a fantastic job of developing all of the supporting characters and their complex, dynamic relationships. By showing the audience different aspects of all characters’ lives, all major characters have a background, goals and political aspirations, thus eliminating any possibility of a dull character.
Possibly the show’s strongest aspect is Frank and Claire’s relationship. Their complex and unusual relationship has been developing and dynamically changing throughout four seasons, and the benefits are reaped in season five. It is really interesting to see their ever-changing relationship, and to watch two cutthroat, power-hungry politicians interact so frequently with one another.
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“House of Cards” is still the same intelligent, chaos-filled, political drama and is at its best in season five. It has an dark yet appealing plot, an emphatic soundtrack, expert character development and is all built on the foundation of the Underwoods’ dynamic, fluid relationship.
Click here for more information on the fifth season of the series.
Season 5 of “House of Cards” was released May 30th, and can only be streamed on Netflix.
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