Dickinson

Hailee Steinfeld delivers a tour de force performance as the poet Emily Dickinson in the Apple TV+ series "Dickinson." Her portrayal is a vibrant and fresh take on the renowned literary figure, capturing the passionate intensity and the rebellious spirit of the young poet. Steinfeld adeptly balances the show's modern sensibilities with the constraints of 19th-century society, infusing Emily with a contemporary wit and relatability that resonates with today's audience. Her nuanced performance brings to life the inner turmoil and ecstasy of Dickinson's creative process, as well as her defiance against the expectations of her time, particularly as a woman. Steinfeld's Emily is both a product of her era and a timeless icon, whose struggles with family, society, and her own burgeoning sexuality are portrayed with authenticity and depth. Her portrayal not only honors the legacy of one of America's most celebrated poets but also reimagines Emily Dickinson as a figure who speaks powerfully to the present.

Toby Huss delivers a captivating performance as Edward Dickinson, the stern yet complex patriarch of the Dickinson family in the Apple TV+ series "Dickinson." Huss embodies the character with a depth that transcends the traditional portrayal of a 19th-century father, bringing a nuanced understanding of Edward's old-fashioned values and his struggle to adapt to the changing times. His performance is marked by a commanding presence, often conveyed through subtle changes in his expressive eyes and the measured cadence of his speech, which serves to highlight the character's internal conflict between his love for his family and his rigid adherence to societal norms. Huss's Edward is not merely a disciplinarian but a man bound by the expectations of his era, trying to navigate the whimsical and progressive inclinations of his daughter, Emily, played by Hailee Steinfeld. His interactions with the rest of the Dickinson clan reveal a complex family dynamic, where Huss's portrayal of paternal affection is often veiled by his character's stoic demeanor. Huss's ability to humanize Edward Dickinson, making him both a product of his time and a relatable figure to modern audiences, is a testament to his talent and contributes significantly to the show's unique blend of historical drama and contemporary wit.