The Plot Against America/Sky Atlantic

I have the advantage over some reviewers as I have read Philip Roth’s novel The Plot Against America twice.

I am now three programmes into the HBO adaptation and enjoying it hugely.

I do not find knowing the novel well a hindrance – more a blessing as you wonder how the actor has interpreted the role and there are omissions and additions.

The story is alternative history: Charles Lindbergh the aviator wins the 1940 Presidential election on an anti-war ticket and the USA – far from joining the war- enters into a pact with Hitler.

This is all seen through the eyes of the Levins a family living in a Jewish area of Newark, New Jersey.

Most of Roth’s Novels  are autobiographical and this one features a Philip, the youngest Levin.

Father Herman believes in the American Dream. He is hard working , decent family man, mystified that Lindbergh – who before the war received a medal from another Herman, Goering – could be elected.

His naïveté is contrasted to his nephew Alvin (Anthony boyle), a tearaway who sees more clearly what’s coming and enrols in the British army.

Herman’s wife Bess (Zoe Kazan) is a kind sort, more anxious, who wants to emigrate to Canada.

Her sister Evelyn (Winona Ryder) takes up with unctuous Rabbi Lionel Bengelsdorf (John Turturro) who supports Lindbergh and comes up with an initiative that young Jewish boys should spend time in the country with American farmers. Herman’s son Sandy, a keen artist, is anxious to go to draw horses.

The production values are high with much period detail to cars, music (Frank Sinatra, another from New Jersey, is beginning to make his name), dress and footage of Lindbergh.

There are omissions – no reference to the kidnapping of Lindbergh’s son in 1931, or his writer wife and -maybe because she’s played by Winona Ryder – Evelyn is given a bigger role.

This said she plays it very well.

David Simon who created The Wire has produced another winner