Daybreak (2019 TV series)
Daybreak is an American post-apocalyptic comedy-drama streaming television series created by Brad Peyton and Aron Eli Coleite, based on the comic book series of the same name by Brian Ralph. It premiered on Netflix on October 24, 2019.
Synopsis:
The series follows 17-year-old high school outcast Josh Wheeler as he navigates the post-apocalyptic city of Glendale, California, after a nuclear bomb has transformed all adults into zombie-like creatures called "Ghouls." Josh is on a quest to find his missing girlfriend, Sam Dean. He is joined by a ragtag group of survivors, including a 10-year-old pyromaniac named Angelica and Josh's former high school bully, Wesley Fists, who has become a pacifist samurai. Together, they face off against the Ghouls, marauding tribes of teenagers, and the evil Baron Triumph, who rules over the ruins of the Glendale mall.
Characters:
- Josh Wheeler (Colin Ford): The protagonist, a high school outcast searching for his girlfriend.
- Sam Dean (Sophie Simnett): Josh's missing girlfriend, the popular girl in school.
- Angelica Green (Alyvia Alyn Lind): A 10-year-old pyromaniac who becomes one of Josh's allies.
- Wesley Fists (Austin Crute): Josh's former bully who becomes a pacifist samurai.
- Principal Burr/Baron Triumph (Matthew Broderick): The high school principal who transforms into the main antagonist.
Reception:
Daybreak received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its quirky humor, visual style, and performances, while others criticized its inconsistent tone and reliance on genre tropes. The series was cancelled by Netflix after one season.
Themes:
The series explores themes of:
- Post-apocalyptic survival
- Coming-of-age
- High school social dynamics
- Redemption
- Found family