Based on the 2011 bestselling novel by Tom Perrotta, The Leftovers is seen primarily through the eyes of police chief Kevin Garvey, played by Justin Theroux, as he experiences life post “the Departure.” After what can only be explained as an instance similar to the biblical rapture, the people of Mapleton, New York, are suddenly shaken to their core as many of their loved ones disappear into thin air. With roughly 140 million people actively missing — 2% of the world’s population — the world starts to question everyone and everything. Will people turn to cynicism, paranoia, and cult-like fanaticism, in order to survive? The eerie and thought-provoking series leaves viewers riveted, second-guessing theories from episode to episode.
The Leftovers first season is based on the novel by Tom Perrotta. Damon Lindelof from LOST fame and the writers adapt the series for HBO with some interesting twists and a shocking ending that will lead the show in a new direction for it's second season and past the novel.
The cast is lead by the brooding Justin Theroux. His police chief character is one who is trying to hold it all together after the loss of a member family, separation from his wife, and keeping the town safe from the annoying but supposedly pacifist and silent group The Guilty Remnant. Christopher Eccleston is excellent as Reverend Jamison who's character has the best episode of the season in "Two Boats and a Helicopter". The second season currently airing on HBO has been firing on all cylinders so make sure to pick this set up and catch up or revisit the first season of ten episodes. 9/10
The Leftovers: The Complete First Season arrives on Blu-ray with a 1080p transfer in the aspect ratio of 1.78:1 - The color palette has a natural appearance as do skin tones. Primaries are lush. Blacks levels were consistent in their richness and depth. Fine detail was quite impressive highlighting textures in the wardrobe and all the lines and tiredness in faces. 9/10
Audio is provided by a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. - Dialogue reproduction was perfect, crisp and clear. The show has a number of environmental effects that easily breathe through the mix utilizing the surrounds effectively. The score has great fidelity. LFE performance includes deep, rich bass notes for the music and more powerful punch when guns are fired. No problems to report with these tracks. 9/10
* Pilot Audio Commentary - Executive Producers Damon Lindelof and Tom Perrotta provide an insightful and interesting listen.
* Making The Leftovers (HD, 28:56) - HBO created featurette on the origins of the show.
* I Remember: A Season One Conversation with Damon Lindelof and Tom Perrotta (HD, 15:11) - In this informal, entertaining discussion, Executive Producers Damon Lindelof and Tom Perrotta share insights about the challenges telling a complex, daring story that blends sci-fi, religion, and social commentary to tackle universal themes.
* Living Reminders: The Guilty Remnant (HD, 8:50) - Damon Lindelof and Tom Perrotta reveal the origins of the series' most mysterious antagonists. Justin Theroux, Amy Brenneman, Liv Tyler and Ann Dowd describe the acting challenges presented by playing scenes in which characters do not speak or reveal their motives.
* Beyond the Book: Season Two (HD, 4:15) - Damon Lindelof, Tom Perrotta, Justin Theroux and others provide a tantalizing preview of some of the twists and turns ahead in The Leftovers Season Two.
* Finale Audio Commentary - Commentary is provided by Damon Lindelof, Tom Perrotta, and Executive Producer/Director Mimi Leder. T