Manifest takes viewers on an unexpected and thrilling ride through the unknown. This captivating movie (or series) blends science fiction, mystery, and drama in a way that keeps audiences at the edge of their seats. Whether you’re drawn to high-concept plots or character-driven stories, Manifest delivers an intriguing narrative that explores themes of fate, family, and what happens when life takes an unexpected turn. Here's my review of the movie Manifest.

1. Plot Overview: 
Manifest begins with the mysterious disappearance of Flight 828, a commercial airliner that vanishes mid-flight only to reappear five years later, with no time for the passengers on board. What seems like a miracle soon unravels into a mind-bending puzzle, as the passengers grapple with strange, supernatural phenomena, shifting realities, and the understanding that their lives will never be the same again. As they search for answers, the question becomes: what happened to Flight 828?

2. The Premise: 
At its heart, Manifest is a story about second chances, the power of human connection, and the complexities of time itself. With its mix of grounded emotional drama and thrilling supernatural elements, the movie explores how people react when faced with the inexplicable. The passengers on Flight 828 are forced to confront their own personal demons and the overwhelming uncertainty of their future. The time jumps and mysterious “callings” experienced by the characters leave viewers constantly wondering what’s real and what’s not.

3. Characters: 
One of Manifest's strongest assets is its well-developed characters. The ensemble cast is led by Ben Stone (played by Josh Dallas), a man who not only has to come to terms with the traumatic event of his plane’s disappearance but also grapple with the new reality of having missed out on five years of his family’s lives. His journey is filled with emotional highs and lows, making him a relatable and empathetic character.

Other key characters include Michaela Stone (Melissa Roxburgh), Ben’s sister, who is also dealing with her struggles, and Zeke Landon (Matt Long), a mysterious character whose story unfolds alongside that of the passengers. Each character brings a unique perspective, which adds layers to the already complex narrative.

5. Cinematography and Special Effects: 
Visually, Manifest is a treat. The cinematography captures the tension and intrigue of the story’s twists and turns. The special effects are used sparingly but effectively, heightening the mystery without overpowering the story. The subtle use of visual cues helps maintain the tension and builds the suspense as the story moves forward.

6. Themes: 
One of the most compelling aspects of Manifest is its exploration of deep, thought-provoking themes. The show delves into fate vs. free will, the consequences of choices, and the relationship between time and destiny. As the characters try to understand their mysterious experience, the audience is led to ask themselves: if given a second chance, what would you do differently?

Additionally, the movie touches on themes of love, loss, and the complexities of family dynamics. It’s not just about the supernatural, but how ordinary people respond to extraordinary events.

7. What Works:
a. The pacing is well-balanced, keeping viewers engaged without feeling rushed or drawn out.
b. Strong character development, with well-acted performances that make the emotional stakes feel real.
c. The plot is packed with twists and turns that keep the audience guessing, particularly as the mysterious phenomena continue to evolve.

What Could Be Improved:
a. Some viewers may find the slow reveal of answers frustrating, as the movie (or series) doesn’t immediately provide clear answers about the supernatural events.
b. Certain secondary characters could have been fleshed out more to enhance the overall narrative.
c. Final Verdict: Manifest is a movie (or series) that doesn’t just rely on the mystery to carry the story. It’s about the people at the heart of the mystery and their journeys as they navigate the unknown. With a mix of engaging characters, thrilling twists, and thought-provoking themes, Manifest is a compelling watch for anyone who enjoys a good mix of mystery, science fiction, and emotional drama.