Jonathan Baily and Matt Bomer created a epic story. These two actors have brought viewers 0n a journey story of Love that spans 30 years. A story that makes that 30 years history a 3rd character in the story. It is complex and beautifully crafted story. A story that avoids the common stereotypes and demonstrates the reality of being Gay in this country. What life for a gay man as like before gay rights legislation. What the raelity and impact of HIV/AIDS crisis was like. Some of the events in the series I personally witnessed. Jonathan Baily and Matt Bomer give that history a new perspective to the events. Definitely worth watching. Definitely worth sharing. I guarentee you will be affected.
64 Reviews
I surprisingly loved it
arod_857 January 2024
I'm a straight female who resides in an area with a very small LBGQ population. I do not have much exposure to gay culture, but I do believe in to each their own. I have always been a fan of Matt Bomer so I tuned in for him. I did not expect to become so invested and overwhelmed with their love story. The story was very compellingly and extremely well acted. I didn't particular like Hawk or Marcus as people, but they were brilliantly portrayed. Tim (Skippy) absolutely broke my heart. I have to say, I was initially a little shocked by the explicit sex scenes, but it wasn't anything worse than what I've seen between heterosexual couples on series like Sparticus, GOT, etc. This is definetly one of the most impactful series I've seen in awhile.
*Extremely* important subject, recounted quite well
fgantzler11 November 2023
The "Lavender Scare" was a very real, despicable period in American political history that deserves to be widely-understood and known. "Fellow Travelers" is an engaging, informative vehicle for recounting the events; while the fictionalization entertains, the subject matter truth stays appropriately prominent throughout the show.
As a gay man & longtime DC-area resident, with a 30-year successful career in federal government defense contract work, the story is a close-hitting view of past discrimination faced by the LGBTQ community. Much progress has been made, with much more needed. "FT" tells the oft-ignored story of the time period, to remove the "blight" of homosexuals from our government - with great actors, beautiful period sets and costumes - and remind us that the fight is NOT over, especially for trans individuals in the present.
Federal government-employed LGBTQ people were hunted by McCarthy & his acolytes (he was the root of the "Red Scare") and when/if discovered, many had their lives utterly destroyed by the subsequent "outings" and criminal prosecutions. Many targeted individuals lost careers, families and hopes for the future, and too many lost lives to suicide. The fights to expunge criminal records and clear names continues TODAY by the families of their now-deceased loved ones who were targeted, persecuted AND prosecuted.
Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey are great in their roles. There is perhaps a little too-graphic representation of sex at times, but it's not un-real or overly-done. Supporting characters are faithful to their roles and vary in acting quality, though all are solidly good. I adore Alison Williams, and she is credible and generally wonderful as the wife of "Hawk." I like that actors of color, along with *actually queer* actors, are present throughout the plot lines. The inclusion of the AIDS crisis, which was largely ignored by political leaders in its early days, is another sad/tragic part of queer history deserving of the spotlight, too.
To me, the only drawback is the use of flashbacks to change the period of time being addressed. It happens very quickly in Ep1, without much setup, so it took me a beat or two to follow the context and characters through the transitions; once I understood what was occurring, it was not an issue. I saw negative reviews that focused on cigarette smoking (really??) and other minor elements, and while I respect differing views, to give a lowest rating for such things both diminishes the important overall message, AND misses the forest for the trees by a wide margin.
Overall, "Fellow Travelers" is a warmly engaging, well acted and accurately depicted account of an important facet of queer history in the United States. It deserves the attention and positive reviews it is receiving, and I recommend it to others, without reservations. -v/r, FEGIII.
As a gay man & longtime DC-area resident, with a 30-year successful career in federal government defense contract work, the story is a close-hitting view of past discrimination faced by the LGBTQ community. Much progress has been made, with much more needed. "FT" tells the oft-ignored story of the time period, to remove the "blight" of homosexuals from our government - with great actors, beautiful period sets and costumes - and remind us that the fight is NOT over, especially for trans individuals in the present.
Federal government-employed LGBTQ people were hunted by McCarthy & his acolytes (he was the root of the "Red Scare") and when/if discovered, many had their lives utterly destroyed by the subsequent "outings" and criminal prosecutions. Many targeted individuals lost careers, families and hopes for the future, and too many lost lives to suicide. The fights to expunge criminal records and clear names continues TODAY by the families of their now-deceased loved ones who were targeted, persecuted AND prosecuted.
Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey are great in their roles. There is perhaps a little too-graphic representation of sex at times, but it's not un-real or overly-done. Supporting characters are faithful to their roles and vary in acting quality, though all are solidly good. I adore Alison Williams, and she is credible and generally wonderful as the wife of "Hawk." I like that actors of color, along with *actually queer* actors, are present throughout the plot lines. The inclusion of the AIDS crisis, which was largely ignored by political leaders in its early days, is another sad/tragic part of queer history deserving of the spotlight, too.
To me, the only drawback is the use of flashbacks to change the period of time being addressed. It happens very quickly in Ep1, without much setup, so it took me a beat or two to follow the context and characters through the transitions; once I understood what was occurring, it was not an issue. I saw negative reviews that focused on cigarette smoking (really??) and other minor elements, and while I respect differing views, to give a lowest rating for such things both diminishes the important overall message, AND misses the forest for the trees by a wide margin.
Overall, "Fellow Travelers" is a warmly engaging, well acted and accurately depicted account of an important facet of queer history in the United States. It deserves the attention and positive reviews it is receiving, and I recommend it to others, without reservations. -v/r, FEGIII.
Thank You Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey!
cr-1404027 December 2023
At 81 years old (born 1942) I'm younger than the characters portrayed (a WW II vet in 1950's to '80's) - but can relate. In 1954, with the Army-McCarthy hearings being broadcast on all 3 networks (that's all we had in those days) at 12 yrs. Old, the young question is - "why are we fighting amongst ourselves " and why can't we get regular programming? (and "why are they after me ?"- even then I knew I wasn't attracted to the opposite sex). So - many years later -having survived, thru those years that you could be arrested for being gay - until now - and having Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey bring to life those years - well - that's extraordinary. Thank you! You can quibble about production values, acting (all great), factual accuracy (and I did), but overall - it was great. I've seen all episodes - some good, some great (2nd to last) - wow. Thanks Matt Bomer (always loved you since "Chuck" and especially "White Collar") - but I also have a new love - Jonathan Bailey. Let's have some wine.
Another Show Getting Review Bombed
pebsdad28 October 2023
This show is getting ratings bombed, clearly, like many controversial shows tend to be lately. Somewhere there must be a post about poorly reviewing the show to bring down the ratings. 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 6 here...
The show is based on a book about 2 men who meet during the McCarthy hearings era and fall for each other. Both work in Washington and have to keep their relationship a secret. It jumps back and forth between the 50's and the 80's, after both men have moved on. Not a groundbreaking story line but the period production work is impeccable.
This is a limited series that has actual M/M passion and doesn't hold back. It's the type of sex and passion usually only seen in heterosexual shows. I wish we had all episodes at once.
The show is based on a book about 2 men who meet during the McCarthy hearings era and fall for each other. Both work in Washington and have to keep their relationship a secret. It jumps back and forth between the 50's and the 80's, after both men have moved on. Not a groundbreaking story line but the period production work is impeccable.
This is a limited series that has actual M/M passion and doesn't hold back. It's the type of sex and passion usually only seen in heterosexual shows. I wish we had all episodes at once.
A beautiful, candid & epic Gay love story spanning decades of LGBT history.
PlutoZoo30 October 2023
Fellow Travelers isn't for those who know nothing about history nor much about the struggle and plight of gay men in the several eras this book-to-screen adaptation recounts. I mention this because I've seen some comments berating the creators for showing the power imbalance between the two leads and it's generally coming from people who were born into a world where it wasn't illegal to be gay, the world they arrived in was one where LGBT equality was at the fore and gay marriage was starting to become legal in many countries around the world, coupled with the introduction of anti-discrimination laws in the workplace and hate crime laws in many modern societies.
So, for those people who don't get this story about the paranoia and hatred stemming from a government of the day, a government steeped in the mire of a cold war and itself paranoid beyond reason, it's principally because they are shocked and expect every gay story to be like Heartstopper or Red, White and Royal Blue, both very enjoyable in their own right, but equally unrealistic and cuddly.
For my part, I like the cuddly stories but I also like the grit, and Fellow Travelers has plenty of grit: from the underground gay-scene to the dom-sub dynamic between the two leading men and then on to the paranoia of McCarthy-ism and the horrendous persecution and witch-hunts of gay men and all that that entailed. Then onwards through the 60's and 70's it goes to the height of the AIDS crisis in the late 80's, spanning the lives of the cast and the struggles of being gay at that time, and is it no wonder that the shying flowers who've never had those same struggles believe it's made up or inappropriate to convey. Well, I have news for them, that was the harsh reality even if they don't want to believe it.
It's a reality that's conveyed so very well in Fellow Travelers, with lavish production values from sets to costume and script. To top it all, we get to see two actual out gay actors give amazing performances and I must say that there is a realism to the sex scenes and an animalistic intensity which I don't believe two straight actors could quite achieve so convincingly. Although it shouldn't matter, if an actor is good, wheter he's gay or not and I've not seen love making as convincing since Free Fall, the German gay film, and that was a straight cast as far as I know. Nevertheless, there's something special going on between Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey in Fellow Travelers and perhaps it's the fact that we know they're both gay men that helps us to buy into it more.
Amid other reviews here taking of ratings bombing and social media with various moaners who want cuddly stories I felt the need to write a review and point out that this production and story is top notch, it's special and it's a rarity to find two out gay men playing two gay characters in a serious drama.
This is without question, one time where it would be very remiss to believe any of the reviews, including this one, and just simply make up your own minds after watching this outstanding show. If you like it, it deserves your support, if you don't, please remember that there was a time when a story like this one wouldn't even be considered for production and it is books that have made these TV series possible. More importantly it's about remembering the persecution and then writing about it, it's those stories that have liberated gay men to the extent that they now have the luxury of watching themselves, and lives which went before, portrayed on screen by two out gay actors. That alone is remarkable. If we want more real gay stories, the equation is simple: lend your support, it will be rewarded by a great story and excellent acting such as that of Fellow Travelers.
So, for those people who don't get this story about the paranoia and hatred stemming from a government of the day, a government steeped in the mire of a cold war and itself paranoid beyond reason, it's principally because they are shocked and expect every gay story to be like Heartstopper or Red, White and Royal Blue, both very enjoyable in their own right, but equally unrealistic and cuddly.
For my part, I like the cuddly stories but I also like the grit, and Fellow Travelers has plenty of grit: from the underground gay-scene to the dom-sub dynamic between the two leading men and then on to the paranoia of McCarthy-ism and the horrendous persecution and witch-hunts of gay men and all that that entailed. Then onwards through the 60's and 70's it goes to the height of the AIDS crisis in the late 80's, spanning the lives of the cast and the struggles of being gay at that time, and is it no wonder that the shying flowers who've never had those same struggles believe it's made up or inappropriate to convey. Well, I have news for them, that was the harsh reality even if they don't want to believe it.
It's a reality that's conveyed so very well in Fellow Travelers, with lavish production values from sets to costume and script. To top it all, we get to see two actual out gay actors give amazing performances and I must say that there is a realism to the sex scenes and an animalistic intensity which I don't believe two straight actors could quite achieve so convincingly. Although it shouldn't matter, if an actor is good, wheter he's gay or not and I've not seen love making as convincing since Free Fall, the German gay film, and that was a straight cast as far as I know. Nevertheless, there's something special going on between Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey in Fellow Travelers and perhaps it's the fact that we know they're both gay men that helps us to buy into it more.
Amid other reviews here taking of ratings bombing and social media with various moaners who want cuddly stories I felt the need to write a review and point out that this production and story is top notch, it's special and it's a rarity to find two out gay men playing two gay characters in a serious drama.
This is without question, one time where it would be very remiss to believe any of the reviews, including this one, and just simply make up your own minds after watching this outstanding show. If you like it, it deserves your support, if you don't, please remember that there was a time when a story like this one wouldn't even be considered for production and it is books that have made these TV series possible. More importantly it's about remembering the persecution and then writing about it, it's those stories that have liberated gay men to the extent that they now have the luxury of watching themselves, and lives which went before, portrayed on screen by two out gay actors. That alone is remarkable. If we want more real gay stories, the equation is simple: lend your support, it will be rewarded by a great story and excellent acting such as that of Fellow Travelers.
Fantastic show
dreamgirlevil27 November 2023
Acting, set design and costume design are magnificent. I'm in awe of how good it gets on each episode.
I'm also surprised in the way they managed to adapt the book and make it so much better in every way, from the treatment of the delicate topics to the sex scenes that are explicit yet never feel exploitive or fetishizing like in many other shows/films "for" the LGBT community.
I can't wait to watch the next episode this week for many reasons but especially because of Jonathan Bailey's fantastic acting, he keeps raising his own bar with each episode and that makes this show a pleasure to watch.
I'm also surprised in the way they managed to adapt the book and make it so much better in every way, from the treatment of the delicate topics to the sex scenes that are explicit yet never feel exploitive or fetishizing like in many other shows/films "for" the LGBT community.
I can't wait to watch the next episode this week for many reasons but especially because of Jonathan Bailey's fantastic acting, he keeps raising his own bar with each episode and that makes this show a pleasure to watch.
Brilliant show on the war on gays and how sadly relevant today
tomperuhawaii5 December 2023
Brilliant show on the war on gays and how sadly relevant today
What a brilliant and sad show on the biggest closet gays in American history, Senator McCarthy and Roy Cohn, his lawyer. Their hatred over their own sexual desires made made them spread homophobia all over the country. The invasive tactics of the FBI and the government into gay mens lives is portait here extremely powerfully one man dedicated to politics as much as the other, whom he falls in love with. Both experience the insane level of homphobic hatred from the very top in the most insane ways. The lead actors all are brilliant here in this must watch Showtime presentation.
What a brilliant and sad show on the biggest closet gays in American history, Senator McCarthy and Roy Cohn, his lawyer. Their hatred over their own sexual desires made made them spread homophobia all over the country. The invasive tactics of the FBI and the government into gay mens lives is portait here extremely powerfully one man dedicated to politics as much as the other, whom he falls in love with. Both experience the insane level of homphobic hatred from the very top in the most insane ways. The lead actors all are brilliant here in this must watch Showtime presentation.
Moving, entertaining, wonderful production
svensk-fiolspel28 October 2023
Toroughly enjoyed episode 1. Jonathan Bailey and Matt Bomer are simply wonderful. Jonathan Bailey, as always, is especially magnetic, wtih an impeccable American accent. Matt Bomer is also very solid, and the chemistry between the two leads is undeniably strong. The whole production is tied together very well with the back-and-forth flashbacks and the historical backdrop of various events of the 20th century. The supporting cast, who I was not familar with before, also do a great job. The music, costumes and sets are very enjoyable as well, especially for any fan of history. Can't wait to see more of this.
We Get It
cheryllauer1 December 2023
Warning: Spoilers
The show is interesting, but the frequency of the sex scenes is too over the top for me. And I'd say this if it was a heterosexual love story.
We get it, but they need to spend more time on plot IMHO.
All that said, it's good to see Matt Bomer not playing a straight man for once. He's a very good actor and I've enjoyed him in everything since White Collar.
The music and scene decor for the changing time periods is great. I do think they should've aged the main characters a bit more for the 30+ year time lapse.
I knew about Red Scare of McCarthyism, but this show does a great job explaining his hypocrisy into going after homosexuality as well.
We get it, but they need to spend more time on plot IMHO.
All that said, it's good to see Matt Bomer not playing a straight man for once. He's a very good actor and I've enjoyed him in everything since White Collar.
The music and scene decor for the changing time periods is great. I do think they should've aged the main characters a bit more for the 30+ year time lapse.
I knew about Red Scare of McCarthyism, but this show does a great job explaining his hypocrisy into going after homosexuality as well.
A must watch...with one qualification
philrwell18 November 2023
A classic and unbeatable formula: an ardent (to say the least) but forbidden romantic entanglement against the background of thirty years of dramatic social and political upheavals. A sort of The Way We Were but with Bomer and Bailey (both perfectly cast) instead of Streisand and Redford. The McCarthy era episodes are strikingly well done with the good period detail (one carping point: the '50s seem to be in vogue at the moment and every actor is dressed so perfectly in period style that no-one ever seems stepped out of an upmarket clothing store with nary a worn or patched garment to be seen).and fine performances from the troupe of Washington politicians and their cohorts. One glaringly obvious misstep where, because everything else is so well done I indulgently suspend my disbelief, is the almost total lack of effort taken to age the characters. After 30 years Hawk is supposed to have grandchildren yet he appears to have discovered the secret of eternal youth; the secret seems to have been shared with Marcus, who, apart from longer hair and a beard is similarly untouched by time.
High Expectations Lowered
besogoginava8 January 2024
It's a decent attempt at capturing the struggles of gays and leftists in 50s America. I was expecting a bit more depth in the story instead of so much focus on the sex scenes, but hey, they were done well. Hawk starts off interesting but ends up pretty dull. Tim, on the other hand, was just plain annoying, selfish and kinda dumb.
I felt like something was missing in the narrative, and some intriguing plotlines got messy. Matt Bomer's performance was okay, but Jonathan Bailey often felt like he was overdoing it. Shoutout to Allison Williams for rocking the role of Lucy.
Overall, it's an okay show, but far from a masterpiece. And let's be real, the music really sucked. Recommended, but don't expect a game-changer.
I felt like something was missing in the narrative, and some intriguing plotlines got messy. Matt Bomer's performance was okay, but Jonathan Bailey often felt like he was overdoing it. Shoutout to Allison Williams for rocking the role of Lucy.
Overall, it's an okay show, but far from a masterpiece. And let's be real, the music really sucked. Recommended, but don't expect a game-changer.
Compelling but Flawed
tenore6519 November 2023
Contrary to all the other reviews and reviewers, I have a problem with this show. Yes, it is well acted and well crafted in direction and execution. My first problem is with the character of Hawkins: he is such a narcissistic, pathological liar and, ultimately, snake, that I don't see this as much a a love story as I do a story about a predator and its prey. Skippy is far too sweet and innocent to have fallen for such a complete jerk. Second, although I am a gay man in his 70s and have been around the block many, may times, I find Bomer a bit too pretty and effete to be believable as the character he is playing. Still, that might be a tribute to his acting so, again, conflict. Despite all this, I am looking forward to the remainder of the show to see if there is any resolution and, in fact, absolution of Hawkins' character.
Unforgettable drama
rocketmike-8279526 December 2023
Amazing story which reminded me of my youth in the 1960s and onwards through a military career (don't ask don't tell) and 17 years in a corporate job always hiding my sexual identity. Fellow Travelers could have been written by me. I lived through all the drama, aids, loves...what in incredible telling of history: the sadness and fear in the gay culture because of aids and the government's refusal to recognize it! This drama goes behind the scenes to show the real stories behind the headlines of that period in American History which caused so many to suffer and be treated as lepers, outcasts, not worthy of being Americans.
Long overdue
y-3865328 October 2023
I guess Matt Bomer has been waiting for his whole career for a role like this. And tbh, we all have been looking forward to a show like this but never thought it would actually happen. It's still early to decide whether the show is good. It's promising and I believe it marks the beginning of more mainstream series delving into LGBTQ+ storylines.
In the first episode, I can really see the tension between Bomer and Bailey. Even though they might have tried a little too hard, I can still feel their vibe and whole cast seemed decent. The storyline seemed to be a bit orthodox. Let's just take it as a good adaptation of a readable M/M romance with a touch on some serious topics. I'm sure it will do just fine.
In the first episode, I can really see the tension between Bomer and Bailey. Even though they might have tried a little too hard, I can still feel their vibe and whole cast seemed decent. The storyline seemed to be a bit orthodox. Let's just take it as a good adaptation of a readable M/M romance with a touch on some serious topics. I'm sure it will do just fine.
Brilliant and necessary
christinatencheva28 October 2023
A stunning show with masterful acting. It's a tough watch at times but also very necessary - these are struggles and trials that so many went through. The two leads Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey have great chemistry and the supporting cast is great - Jelani Alladin being a personal favourite - but also Erin and Noah. The political aspect gives it a sense of truthfulness and it rightfully (but unfortunately) connects to a lot of what we currently see happening around us. The romance and intimacy deserve praise too. I look forwards to seeing what the rest of the episodes will deliver. Fantastic work!
Wow!! Just swooped away!! Brilliantly Amazing!!
remuse-astra24 November 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Hawk and Tim are born to be with each other even before they have met. They know instantly, like any other gay men, that their strong attraction for each other, pulls them back together much stronger each time they are apart, and they come back to each others arms like moth attracted to light.
Every Hawk and Tim scene is so connecting, I see myself as Tim and yearning and "kneeling in praying" for Hawk's attention, and to let Hawk raid Tim in all posts. Like his name, the Hawk gets what it wants and has a precision vision to its prey..er..Tim, I meant Tim, sorry.
Phew..I felt this series so close to my heart. Hawk has a plastic-y emotionless look, that justifies his character of being that Washington Govt. Officer always watching out for themselves. But with Tim, Hawk just shows how vulnerable he is and oh boy how exciting it is to see those pure souls engage in a divine melody of togetherness. Skippy shows all flavors of innocence that makes him pure with Hawk.
I have grown a new found love for Mr. Jonathan Bailey and a continued love for that gorgeous, cute and just perfect blue eyed guy, Mr. Matt Bomer.
The Lavender scare, McCarthyism and such have been there for ages throughout history, but just in different forms. But amidst all that chaos, there blooms a true and eternal love of two people. Being gay, I can just barely phathom, how devastating their lives could have been in those days. I struggle even to this day.
Each time I see such series, I am reminded of their struggles who have paved the way for all of us, and I revel in their onscreen emotions and cry with them and laugh along their folly. This series has all the pure excitement of gay sexual experiences and wait for much more to come. It has BDSM, blowjob, handjob, bareback love, foot fetish, armpit fetish (wow that way Hawk digs in to Tim's), kissing and nipple play.
This is a gem of a series, loved it and waiting for all of the remaining episodes.
Every Hawk and Tim scene is so connecting, I see myself as Tim and yearning and "kneeling in praying" for Hawk's attention, and to let Hawk raid Tim in all posts. Like his name, the Hawk gets what it wants and has a precision vision to its prey..er..Tim, I meant Tim, sorry.
Phew..I felt this series so close to my heart. Hawk has a plastic-y emotionless look, that justifies his character of being that Washington Govt. Officer always watching out for themselves. But with Tim, Hawk just shows how vulnerable he is and oh boy how exciting it is to see those pure souls engage in a divine melody of togetherness. Skippy shows all flavors of innocence that makes him pure with Hawk.
I have grown a new found love for Mr. Jonathan Bailey and a continued love for that gorgeous, cute and just perfect blue eyed guy, Mr. Matt Bomer.
The Lavender scare, McCarthyism and such have been there for ages throughout history, but just in different forms. But amidst all that chaos, there blooms a true and eternal love of two people. Being gay, I can just barely phathom, how devastating their lives could have been in those days. I struggle even to this day.
Each time I see such series, I am reminded of their struggles who have paved the way for all of us, and I revel in their onscreen emotions and cry with them and laugh along their folly. This series has all the pure excitement of gay sexual experiences and wait for much more to come. It has BDSM, blowjob, handjob, bareback love, foot fetish, armpit fetish (wow that way Hawk digs in to Tim's), kissing and nipple play.
This is a gem of a series, loved it and waiting for all of the remaining episodes.
absolutely amazing
francjosers3 December 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This series must be acclaimed because introduce, lightly and certainly without demonstrating how cruel it must have been to those who experienced it, how difficult is to be LGBTQIAPN+ in times past, justifying many current behaviors such as a excessive red flag today. Did you know how to be hard to all gay and catholic men as Tim? And the outcome off lesbin couple? And Howlkins, did you know how can be hard to do all for to be alive? Did you know how was hard to journalist and black and gay say goodbye to your love exactly don't had the same end than their brother? Just like them, a million of people still go through situation currently. The make, the age, the light ou cloting does't matter.
Indispensable viewing and sadly relevant
bfdrgfbb29 October 2023
Written, acted and directed brilliantly. Nothing about it feels dated, in fact it's frightening in its relevance to today. It's gorgeously shot and costumed.
Bomer and Bailey's chemistry radiates off the screen. Bomer is a revelation as he commands your attention with unflinching sexuality and fearsome resolve. He's matched by Bailey's exquisite vulnerability and heart on his sleeve bravura. There are no weak links in the rest of the ensemble. Allison Williams shines in what could have been the formulaic other woman and Jelani Alladin adds rich layers to Marcus. I can't wait for the next episode, which looks to cut deep.
Bomer and Bailey's chemistry radiates off the screen. Bomer is a revelation as he commands your attention with unflinching sexuality and fearsome resolve. He's matched by Bailey's exquisite vulnerability and heart on his sleeve bravura. There are no weak links in the rest of the ensemble. Allison Williams shines in what could have been the formulaic other woman and Jelani Alladin adds rich layers to Marcus. I can't wait for the next episode, which looks to cut deep.
Messy but beautiful at times
the_happy_boy20066 February 2024
This is beautiful story is set in an importantant historical context, but overcomplicated by time jumps that don't always bring much value. Emotion and narrative logic are lost because of these continous jumps in various points of the couple's past.
The beginning of the love story seems particularly rushed, as the love between the two men is served as a given, but its growth is not protraied on screen in a clear and sustained manner. As a viewer, I couldn't emotionally engage with their love story during the first episodes, as there was little investment on screen on why I should care.
The constant conflict, that of Hawke always pushing Tim away, also doesn't fully explain why Tim would refuse reconnecting with his life's lover on his death bed. As we are shown in one of the last episodes, their last rupture (during Hawk's griving for his dead son) is not as dramatic and personal to Skippy, particularly compared to the other ones.
Overall, the first episodes do better justice to the historical context in which they are set, at the expense of building the grounds of the relationship between Tim and Hawk, which is beautifully put in focus during the later part of the series.
The beginning of the love story seems particularly rushed, as the love between the two men is served as a given, but its growth is not protraied on screen in a clear and sustained manner. As a viewer, I couldn't emotionally engage with their love story during the first episodes, as there was little investment on screen on why I should care.
The constant conflict, that of Hawke always pushing Tim away, also doesn't fully explain why Tim would refuse reconnecting with his life's lover on his death bed. As we are shown in one of the last episodes, their last rupture (during Hawk's griving for his dead son) is not as dramatic and personal to Skippy, particularly compared to the other ones.
Overall, the first episodes do better justice to the historical context in which they are set, at the expense of building the grounds of the relationship between Tim and Hawk, which is beautifully put in focus during the later part of the series.
Excellent, stellar acting, and so well portrayed.
billrenaud16 December 2023
I started watching this series at the recommendation of a friend who wanted to watch it again, and we ended up watching the whole series today, basically occupying most of the afternoon and later hours. The series is just absolutely excellent, very realistic, the acting was superb, the reality of the situation was accurate and the whole series was executed beautifully. Hats off to everyone involved in this endeavor, such a necessary story that needed to be told, of a very, very troubling and challenging time in our nations history, I just hope at least some of our civilization learns from this. It's downright scary. There are people out there who are trying to do the same thing to LGBTQ people today once again. Anyway, congratulations on a stellar production.
Excellent!
mm-349-9225249 December 2023
Amazingly tight and emotionally told Family / Love- Story spanning almost four decades, starting in the rigid McCarthy era of the 50's where communists and LGBT+ people were persecuted and hunted up to the AIDS crisis in the 80's. It's written great, it's cast and acted great and direction and editing explore the character's needs and desires of being accepting of oneself as much as of others and the tension and friction it creates when the authentic self is suppressed and hidden in fear and shame.
It's a great reminder to stay true to yourself as much as allowing others to stay true to themselves so life's full potential can unfold.
It's a great reminder to stay true to yourself as much as allowing others to stay true to themselves so life's full potential can unfold.
Loved it
lauraberg-5963519 December 2023
That was so heart wrenching and hurtful but I loved every second of it. The two of them did an amazing job.
I did think the time jumps were confusing at times and that made it hard to follow sometimes but the characters and well the story made up for it a hundred times.
The whole story was hard to watch at times the stuggles and everything. I loved Frankie so much. What a great character. Him and Marcus where so beautiful together and I was happy they got a happy ending.
The ending really got ne tho I was crying when hawk told is daughter that Tim was the man he loved. He never once said it in the show, so that hurt extra bad.
Overall great show. Great actors. Great story.
I did think the time jumps were confusing at times and that made it hard to follow sometimes but the characters and well the story made up for it a hundred times.
The whole story was hard to watch at times the stuggles and everything. I loved Frankie so much. What a great character. Him and Marcus where so beautiful together and I was happy they got a happy ending.
The ending really got ne tho I was crying when hawk told is daughter that Tim was the man he loved. He never once said it in the show, so that hurt extra bad.
Overall great show. Great actors. Great story.
Quality production a vital part of LGBTQI history
tm-sheehan17 December 2023
My Review - Fellow Travelers
Streaming on Paramount
My Rating 9/10
It's so encouraging when quality stories of our LGBTQ history like this screen adaptation of Thomas Mallon's highly acclaimed novel Fellow Travellers are transferred to the screen with great skill and integrity.
This is an impressive 8part series produced with great style and sensitivity.
Impressive performances from the entire ensemble cast plus memorable and intimate performances from the 2 main stars Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey who play the lovers Hawk Fuller and Tim Laughlin.
Matt and Jonathan certainly got to know each other on this television project but raunchy as some of their lovemaking scenes are they are crucial to show the passion of their on again off again romance that lasted over three decades . This story begins in the 1950's McCarthy witch hunt era that included hunting out closeted homosexuals or sexual subversives as they were referred to back then when monsters like Joel McCarthy, Roy Cohen and J Edgar Hoover caused many a gay man to live lives of desperate and misery that often lead to suicide .
Enter the handsome Washington Department official Hawkins Fuller or Hawk who frequents the underground gay bars of the city for brief sexual liaisons to satisfy his true nature .
The charismatic Hawk is a master of the art of concealing his sexuality even managing to fake a lie detector test in an effort to hold on to and advance his political career.
He meets young eager Timothy Laughlin, a recent Fordham graduate and devout Catholic eager to join the crusade against Communism.
Their passionate encounters lead to Tim's first job in D. C. and his first love affair.
As the climate and pressure in Washington hots up it becomes clear to Hawk that he can have his cake and eat it if he does the expected thing and find a suitable bride.
He marries the very eligible Lucy Smith played by Allison Williams they have what looks like the ideal Washington marriage with children a fabulous lifestyle and a country house . Hawk eventually distances himself from Tim or Skippy as he calls him by his Pet name and goes back to brief occasional encounters.
We then travel forward and back through each episode to observe what has happened over the years to the two lovers .
First to 1986 SanFrancisco where AIDS is ravaging the city and its gay population. Hawk when finding out that Tim who is now an activist and Social Worker is ill wants to be by his side and his wife Lucy who over the years finds out the truth about her husband reluctantly gives him her blessing to go as she knows by then the true nature of her husband.
We see through snapshots of the earlier years like 1968 when Tim who is now an anti war protester then decides to join the priesthood and while on the run from the authorities reconnects up with Hawk needless to say he doesn't become a priest.
Then forward to 1979 when their passion reunites on Fire Island as Hawk takes Tim on a tour of the Gay Paradise .
I really felt that this series was very similar in its emotional intensity and intent to the 1973 movie The Way We Were.
Executive Producer Matt Bomer delivers a career defining performance as Hawk in a series that was obviously a labour of love for him and it deserves to be seen by all audiences over 18 would suggest .
I watched it drip fed over 8 weeks and can't wait to binge watch it now that all 8 episodes are available.
Each of the 4 Directors Uta Briesewitz, Destiny Ekaragha, James Kent and Daniel Minahan have skilfully bought Fellow Travellers to the screen.
It's so encouraging when quality stories of our LGBTQ history like this screen adaptation of Thomas Mallon's highly acclaimed novel Fellow Travellers are transferred to the screen with great skill and integrity.
This is an impressive 8part series produced with great style and sensitivity.
Impressive performances from the entire ensemble cast plus memorable and intimate performances from the 2 main stars Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey who play the lovers Hawk Fuller and Tim Laughlin.
Matt and Jonathan certainly got to know each other on this television project but raunchy as some of their lovemaking scenes are they are crucial to show the passion of their on again off again romance that lasted over three decades . This story begins in the 1950's McCarthy witch hunt era that included hunting out closeted homosexuals or sexual subversives as they were referred to back then when monsters like Joel McCarthy, Roy Cohen and J Edgar Hoover caused many a gay man to live lives of desperate and misery that often lead to suicide .
Enter the handsome Washington Department official Hawkins Fuller or Hawk who frequents the underground gay bars of the city for brief sexual liaisons to satisfy his true nature .
The charismatic Hawk is a master of the art of concealing his sexuality even managing to fake a lie detector test in an effort to hold on to and advance his political career.
He meets young eager Timothy Laughlin, a recent Fordham graduate and devout Catholic eager to join the crusade against Communism.
Their passionate encounters lead to Tim's first job in D. C. and his first love affair.
As the climate and pressure in Washington hots up it becomes clear to Hawk that he can have his cake and eat it if he does the expected thing and find a suitable bride.
He marries the very eligible Lucy Smith played by Allison Williams they have what looks like the ideal Washington marriage with children a fabulous lifestyle and a country house . Hawk eventually distances himself from Tim or Skippy as he calls him by his Pet name and goes back to brief occasional encounters.
We then travel forward and back through each episode to observe what has happened over the years to the two lovers .
First to 1986 SanFrancisco where AIDS is ravaging the city and its gay population. Hawk when finding out that Tim who is now an activist and Social Worker is ill wants to be by his side and his wife Lucy who over the years finds out the truth about her husband reluctantly gives him her blessing to go as she knows by then the true nature of her husband.
We see through snapshots of the earlier years like 1968 when Tim who is now an anti war protester then decides to join the priesthood and while on the run from the authorities reconnects up with Hawk needless to say he doesn't become a priest.
Then forward to 1979 when their passion reunites on Fire Island as Hawk takes Tim on a tour of the Gay Paradise .
I really felt that this series was very similar in its emotional intensity and intent to the 1973 movie The Way We Were.
Executive Producer Matt Bomer delivers a career defining performance as Hawk in a series that was obviously a labour of love for him and it deserves to be seen by all audiences over 18 would suggest .
I watched it drip fed over 8 weeks and can't wait to binge watch it now that all 8 episodes are available.
Each of the 4 Directors Uta Briesewitz, Destiny Ekaragha, James Kent and Daniel Minahan have skilfully bought Fellow Travellers to the screen.
An interesting start.
yannisfloketopoulos28 October 2023
It seems to be a quite pleasant and interesting story of romantic - dramatic content that unfolds through the romantic/sexual relationship between two men with different characters and backgrounds. The chemistry between Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey is evident and its very sexy.
The plot is moving and easy to follow. It is clear that the production has done a great job and this is evident in the way the characters and their environments are presented back and forth through the different eras (50s and 80s).
It raises interesting themes of an earlier era that are definitely reflected in today's time.
Let's see how this unfolds.
The plot is moving and easy to follow. It is clear that the production has done a great job and this is evident in the way the characters and their environments are presented back and forth through the different eras (50s and 80s).
It raises interesting themes of an earlier era that are definitely reflected in today's time.
Let's see how this unfolds.
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