PAN AM: let's fly away

September, 2011 - February 2012

1 season

14 episodes

I recently watched this series because it was aired on a local TV. 

Set in 1963, it recreates the relationships between pilots and stewardesses on Pan Am airlines, the big company which revolutionized the international airline industry. But this is only the starting point of a deeper plot, because what the series is really about is an accurate reflection of the 60’s: historical events, political issues, society and their rules and worries. 

What will you see in Pan Am?

• History and politics: the series takes advantage of the airline’s flights to show the political situacion around the world. You’ll see several referrals to presidents and governors and the way politics was affecting international relations.
• Cold War: this is one of the main points of the plot. One of the stewardesses becomes a spy as she can travel around the world without being suspicious. So you’ll be immersed in a world of secrets, intrigue, spies, double agents...
• Art: history and politics aren’t the only reflection of the 60’s, so the show also includes photographers, exhibitions and a little bit of music.
• Fashion: I was amazed about the costumes! Every single character is like a piece of art, seriously! specially the stewardesses with their always-stunning clothes and make-up. It really made me think that people used to be incredibly dressy and stylish at that time.
• Love affairs: of course! love, lack of affection, disappointment, jeaolusy...
• Friendship: I took pleasure in observing how the relation between the characters was built and developed. It was really nice.

The main cast is formed by: Christina Ricci, Margot Robbie, Michael Mosley, Karine Vanasse, Mike Vogel, Kelli Garner and Goran Visnjic. I have to say it was great to see the lovely Christina Ricci in a series’ main role.

Despite starting with big audiences, they decreased fast and the series was cancelled. Its international success and winning a Best Series award didn’t manage to pick it up for a second season either. I think this is an unfortunate ending for a series which deserves a proper one. 

In my opinion, this type of show is the perfect way to do a historical series without being exclusively historical. It’s the perfect way to approach people to that kind of events and to wake up their curiosity about history. Although it wasn’t one of my favourite I enjoyed the time I was watching it, so I encorage you to check it out:

Follow this link if you can't watch the video correctly: http://bit.ly/T6rhPM