Recently, HBO Max released the first two episodes of “The Institute,” a sci-fi series featuring the son of a well-known actor…
If you’re a fan of Stephen King or sci-fi series, you’ve probably heard of The Institute. The novel, published in 2019, was a huge hit, and the adaptation has been highly anticipated. HBO Max launched the first two episodes on July 17, and they’ve been met with positive feedback.
The story follows Ellis, a 14-year-old prodigy who wakes up in a facility filled with children who, like him, were brought there under mysterious circumstances and possess unusual abilities such as telekinesis and telepathy.
In a nearby town, Tim Jamieson, a former police officer looking for a fresh start, is unaware that his peace will soon be disrupted as his path is destined to intersect with Luke’s.
A Promising Start
Viewers were introduced to actor Joe Freeman in the leading role. Although this is his first major role, the 19-year-old is no stranger to the world of film and television, being the son of Martin Freeman and Amanda Abbington.
Both are best known for their roles in the British series Sherlock. Martin played Watson, the doctor and best friend of the meticulous detective portrayed by Benedict Cumberbatch, while Abbington joined in the third season as Mary, Watson’s wife.
Martin Freeman is also famous for portraying Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit trilogy and has appeared in several Marvel movies and series, including Captain America: Civil War.
Their son has benefited from the guidance of two experienced actors, as he shared in an interview with Screen Time: “He told me, as my mother did, to expect failure, because it’s 99% of this job, and it’s not as if it was my first audition. Nothing is guaranteed in this job, not even the chance to work again, so you must seize every opportunity.”
Joe Freeman also relies on the support of his fellow cast members in The Institute, including Ben Barnes (Shadow and Bone, Narnia) and Mary-Louise Parker (Weeds). One thing is nearly certain; this won’t be the last time we see this young actor on screen.
The Institute, a new episode every Thursday on HBO Max.
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A passionate journalist, Iris Lennox covers social and cultural news across the U.S.