Spy thrillers are a crowded genre, but Thomas Brandon's 'The Copenhagen Test' manages to carve out a distinct space with its intense focus on identity, patriotism, and psychological trauma. Headlined by a compelling Simu Liu, the series presents a vulnerable take on the classic espionage narrative, drawing comparisons to James Bond while forging its own path.
A Soldier Haunted by His Past
The series follows Alexander Hale (Simu Liu), a first-generation Chinese immigrant and ex-Special Forces soldier now working as an analyst for a shadowy US oversight agency called The Orphanage. Hale, battling PTSD from his military service, is haunted by a critical mission where he saved a scared child over an American hostage—a decision that continues to torment him. His deep desire to prove his loyalty and worth to his adopted country drives him to seek a field role in the agency's 'Upstairs' department.
However, Hale's world shatters when he discovers that his defining moment of trauma was not real. The hostage situation was a manufactured loyalty assessment, aptly named 'The Copenhagen Test'. To make matters worse, he learns his brain has been hacked with surveillance technology, turning him into an unwitting spy against the very nation he swore to protect. This violation of his autonomy and patriotism forms the brilliant, painful core of the storyline.
A Web of Lies and Ethical Dilemmas
As Hale begins to unravel the conspiracy, he finds that nothing in his life is as it seems. His ex-wife, his oldest friend, his purpose, and his very identity are all called into question. To counter the hacker, The Orphanage builds a fabricated reality around him, forcing Hale to feed false intelligence. This leads to devastating ethical quandaries where he must witness attacks on his countrymen without being able to intervene, masterfully conveying a profound sense of helplessness to the viewer.
The narrative is well-paced, revealing its secrets methodically. While some plot twists may be anticipated, the execution remains satisfying. The series also benefits from strong supporting performances, particularly from Sinclair Daniel as Parker and Brian d'Arcy James as Peter Moira. Their mentor-mentee dynamic, fraught with personal insecurities and professional risk, adds rich layers to the overarching game of 'cloak and daggers.'
Simu Liu's Stellar Performance Anchors the Series
The true standout of 'The Copenhagen Test' is Simu Liu, who proves his mettle as a serious dramatic actor. He skillfully portrays Hale's vulnerability, patriotism, and simmering rage, making the character's psychological journey deeply relatable. Liu channels a raw, betrayed version of the classic spy archetype, making him more accessible than the typically invincible James Bond.
While the cinematography is functional rather than groundbreaking, it serves the story's purpose without distraction. The series doesn't overreach, staying firmly within the bounds of its narrative—a decision that ultimately works in its favour. It may not reach the iconic heights of a 'Skyfall,' but 'The Copenhagen Test' is a gripping, thought-provoking entry into the spy genre, elevated significantly by Simu Liu's impressive and nuanced performance.
