This is the second Kirkman comic adapted for television, arguably the far superior work. Outcast is a more personal tale than its zombie cousin, although the stakes are metaphysically larger. Possession is used in a metaphor for domestic violence, and the show is unreserved in demonstrating the physical and mental trauma upon the victims. There is examination of the dark shadows in any small town, and how complicity and perpetration of abuse stains an entire community. While scenes of possession and exorcism are unfettered in their violence, gratuitous gore lovers lurk elsewhere. The show itself is more a character study than reliant upon shocking events and showy set pieces. Violence is used sparingly, but it is shocking in its brutality. Religious themes are; of course, explored, the inversion being that the possessing entities are smart enough to to play to an audience. Easy answers and agendas are not very forthcoming, leading to speculation about actual motives and nature of these beings. This show will always go subdued as opposed to bombastic, but the show is building towards something still as inscruitable as the possessor's agendas. The season ending has me hooked and ready to see where season 2 might go.
Outcast (Season 1)