The Diplomat: Netflix’s Surprisingly Delicious Political Drama

Career diplomat, Kate Wyler (Keri Russell, The Americans), reluctantly accepts reassignment to the U.K. as U.S. ambassador. Her husband Hal (Rufus Sewell, The Man in the High Castle), also a diplomat, accompanies her to London. He’s got swagger, a high profile, and a penchant for the limelight. Their roles have reversed; she’s driving the relocation this time and he’s the trailing spouse. It’s immediately apparent that he will have a hard time being the second fiddle. And as they struggle to adjust to their new life in England, their marriage is unraveling; depending on which one you ask and when, they’re done.

Ambassador Wyler immediately finds herself trying to defuse an international incident. A British Navy vessel has been bombed and the death of British soldiers has the Prime Minister (played by Rory Kinnear) seeking retribution. The U.S. President (Michael McKean) has to support its major ally without triggering a wider conflict. And of course, politics underlies everything. The behind-the-scenes diplomacy may be a little far-fetched but it’s riveting and reflective of current events.

While the couple is forging strategic alliances, there are uncomfortable moments and mischief afoot at the palatial residence of the Ambassador. Kate Wyler is not suited for living in a castle, the English pomp and circumstance, or fancy photo-ops. Watching her handlers and stylists preparing her for a ceremonial appearance in a white gown is hilarious. (“I have a black dress and another black dress.”) The couple tries to keep their marital troubles under wraps, but that doesn’t last long under the prying eyes of household staff. And then for all to see, their verbal jousting turns into a full-on, knock-down, drag-out brawl on the front lawn. It’s part cringeworthy, part hysterical. This blend of geopolitics and a wicked sense of humor is where the show excels.

You’ll enjoy The Diplomat if you liked The West Wing, Madame Secretary, or Borgen (see previous post on the excellent Danish program Borgen: The Engrossing Danish Political Drama and Its Well-Deserved Encore). But The Diplomat is not as refined. It lacks grace and subtlety. The selected diplomatic path is often not the moral high ground. The Diplomat posted big numbers for Netflix and was renewed for another season right out of the gate. Where will season two go? Well, season one concludes with Kate in an elegant red dress attending a grandiose ball…

D² Rating ◼◼◼◼☐

Trivia: Keri Russell won a Golden Globe in 1999 playing the lead role on what WB network show?

Answer: Felicity