Orphan Black - low commitment binge watch

Recently, I cancelled my cable subscription.  The only reason I didn't do it sooner was because I wanted to watch the final episode of Orphan Black season 3 as it aired.  I literally called the cable company right after I finished watching.

I didn't start watching this show until after season 2 had finished airing, but I got through all two seasons very quickly and couldn't wait for the third to start.  It's a great binge watch because every episode is compelling, and there are only 10 episodes per season.  It's easy to finish in one weekend and get caught up before the next season starts - perfect during this slow season for TV.

Yes it is a sci-fi show, but it's not just for sci-fi lovers.  There's mystery, suspense, action, dysfunctional and unexpected relationships, and of course the occasional comic relief.  The premise is about a woman who finds out she is a clone and has many clone sisters that look like her around the world.  She and some of her sisters embark on a hunt to find out the truth behind their existence while still trying to live their normal lives.  It sounds a little quirky the way I describe it but it definitely isn't once you watch it.  Check out the first episode for free (with ads).


Tatiana Maslany, the actress that plays all the clones, is remarkable.  Each character is unique and incredibly well-developed.  They also have great chemistry together.  You forget that it's one person playing all these people.  Think of how much time she must put into just filming, let alone all the other work that goes into playing each clone.

If the storytelling and acting isn't enough, special effects lovers will be impressed by how seamlessly they create the scenes with more than one clone.  They go through a bit of it on the special features of the season 2 DVD and behind the scenes footage available on Amazon Prime.

Right now the first two seasons are streaming for free on Amazon Prime.  And the first episode with ads can be seen for free by everyone.  If you're not a Prime customer, you can sign up for a 30 day free trial, which is plenty of time to get through all the episodes.

Enjoy the show!