"Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan," repeatedly, each season, proves the power of the limited-episode TV series (LETVS) over the relatively shorter format of the feature film. With more time to develop plot and character arches, the LETVS gives the story time to unfold more like the novels from which they evolve.
This series is set before the first Clancy novel Hunt for Red October, so serves as a prequel to the work published by the renowned author, remaining (mostly) faithful to the titular character.
Even if you are not familiar with the books or the films featuring Jack Ryan, this series is worthy of your attention. As mentioned above, the longer format allows time for the tension to build, similar to the novels. But also, unlike so many other productions, the so-called smart people actually ARE smart. They act as smart people would act. Frankly, I'm fed up with characters who are supposed to be smart but act as if they don't have any brains in their heads. "Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan" is full of people who have risen to the top of their respective professions. They, therefore, should be more than merely competent, they should be superior. And time-and-time-again, the writing and dialogue delivers: smart people acting and behaving smart--as it should be.
So, in sum, the long format allows for the story to develop better than film is able, and the brains behind the plotting and the writing bring us a world where smart people act and behave as smart people should. Both of these prove that his show is a cut above, well above typical TV fare.
But be warned: if you are not prepared to pay close attention to EVERYTHING, you can easily lose the plot. So, take the time. Enjoy the ride. It's one of the best out there.
