Hollywood (Miniseries)

 

Better late than never, and I am usually late watching most of the movies and shows I'll review on this site. "Hollywood" premiered on Netflix, the streaming service, in 2020, but I only sat down to watch the full series in one night, earlier this year (2025). 

The period fantasy poses the question of "what if?" Re-imagining Tinseltown in an alternate universe where racial divides, homophobia, and traditional power dynamics are trampled. 

Without further ado, these are my thoughts about the series, and a SPOILER alert is now in effect. 

Created by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan, Hollywood takes us on a re-imagined trip down memory lane. The premise shakes up the industry's prejudiced history, dismantling the not-so-pleasant facts about Tineseltown's ecosystem.

It reconstructs the tale of industry hopefuls, giving each character the spotlight in more ways than one. They overcome different hurdles in their quest to make it big. 

Behind the Characters

A star-studded cast tells the riveting tale, with each celebrated actor adding intrigue. 

David Corenswet Portrays Jack Castello

The limited series opens up in the '40s, post-World War II, following Jack Castello (David Corenswet) as he chases after his big break. He is the leading man, introducing us to most of the other characters.

Dylan McDermott Portrays Ernest West

If you were a fan of the "Practice," a '90s legal drama series, McDermott isn't a stranger to your screen. He plays the part of Ernie, a pimp inspired by the legendary George "Scotty" Bowers. 

Jeremy Pope Portrays Archie Coleman

Archie is an aspiring screenwriter and Roy's boyfriend. He faces prejudice based on his race and orientation. Pope's performance earned him a Primetime Emmy Award in 2020,  recognizing his outstanding acting in a leading role. 

Darren Criss Portrays Raymond Ainsley

Being half-Filipino poses challenges for Raymond Ainsley, an aspiring film director. Criss did a stellar job bringing the character, who is dating Camille Washington (Laura Harrier), an up-and-coming black American actress, to life.

Laura Harrier Portrays Camille Washington

Camille Washington is a Hollywood hopeful chasing the dream of becoming a leading lady. We can't help but root for her as the story unfolds, with Harrier nailing the role of an underdog, bridging the odds stacked against her because of her race. 

Jake Picking Portrays Roy Fitzgerald, Alias Rock Hudson

The show draws several parallels to real-life events in Tinseltown, and Pickings' character exemplifies it. He embodies Roy Fitzgerland, who is the legendary Rock Hudson fictionalized. While chasing after the Hollywood dream, he tries to understand who he is and navigate a relationship with Archie. 

Samara Weaving Portrays Claire Wood

Claire Wood is also an ambitious Hollywood hopeful who has already got her foot in the door as the daughter of Ace Studios' head. Still, she doesn't bank on her family ties but works hard for her big break. 

Jim Parsons Portrays Henry Wilson

Parsons isn't a stranger to fans of the hit CBS sitcom "The Big Bang Theory." He embodies Henry Wilson, the famous Hollywood agent, fictionalized. He manages several artists, including Rock Hudson. 

Hoyland Taylor Portrays Ellen Kincaid

"The Practice" fans might also remember Holland Taylor for her award-winning role as Judge Roberta Kittleson. She personifies Ellen Kincaid, an Ace Studio executive who mentors aspiring actors. 

Joe Mantello Portrays Richard "Dick" Samuels

Richard Samuels, an Ace Studios executive, is a menacing yet receptive person, and Montello brings out the character well. His character is also a closeted gay man. 

Patti LuPone Portrays Avis Amberg

Avis Amberg is a former actress and the wife of Ace Studios' head. She takes a liking to Castello, whom she meets when searching for a "John" at West's gas station.