Manifest (TV series)

Manifest
Genre	Drama Supernatural
Created by	Jeff Rake
Starring	Melissa Roxburgh Josh Dallas Athena Karkanis J. R. Ramirez Luna Blaise Jack Messina Parveen Kaur Matt Long Holly Taylor Daryl Edwards Ty Doran
Composer	Danny Lux
Country of origin	United States
Original language	English
No. of seasons	4
No. of episodes	52 (list of episodes)
Production
Executive producers	Robert Zemeckis Jack Rapke Jacqueline Levine Jeff Rake David Frankel (pilot) Joe Chappelle Len Goldstein Romeo Tirone
Producers	Cathy Frank Laura Putney Margaret Easley Harvey Waldman Marta Gené Camps
Cinematography	Tim Ives Tim Norman Joseph Bradley Smith Sarah Cawley John Inwood Andrew Priestley
Editors	Elena Maganini Nicholas Erasmus Scott Boyd Steven Lang Mark Conte Nina M. Gilberti Maura Corey Matt Coleshill
Camera setup	Single-camera
Running time	42–50 minutes
Production companies	Compari Entertainment Jeff Rake Productions Universal Television (2018–2021) Warner Bros. Television
Release
Original network	NBC (seasons 1–3) Netflix (season 4)
Original release	September 24, 2018 (2018-09-24) – present

Manifest is an American supernatural drama television series created by Jeff Rake that premiered on September 24, 2018, on NBC. It centers on the passengers and crew of a commercial airliner who suddenly reappear after being presumed dead for five and a half years. It stars Melissa Roxburgh, Josh Dallas, Athena Karkanis, J. R. Ramirez, Luna Blaise, Jack Messina, Parveen Kaur, Matt Long, Holly Taylor, Daryl Edwards, and Ty Doran.

In October 2018, NBC ordered further episodes for the first season and subsequently renewed the series for a second season that aired in 2020, and again for a third in 2021. In June 2021, the series was canceled by NBC after three seasons. The series was added to Netflix shortly before it was canceled and immediately topped the viewing charts, persuading Netflix to renew Manifest for a fourth and final season consisting of twenty episodes, with part one premiering on November 4, 2022, and part two set to premiere on June 2, 2023.

Plot

While traveling from Jamaica to New York City, Montego Air Flight 828 experiences a brief period of severe turbulence. When they land at Stewart International Airport in Newburgh, New York, the plane's 191 passengers and crew learn from NSA deputy director Robert Vance that over five and a half years have passed while they were in the air, during which time they were presumed dead. As they rejoin society, the passengers begin to face the fact that their lives—and loved ones—are not the same as they were, while they also begin to experience guiding voices and visions representing events yet to occur, referred to as 'callings.'

Cast and characters

• Melissa Roxburgh as Michaela "Mick" Stone, a detective who works at the NYPD's 129th Precinct, and Ben's sister. She was a passenger on Flight 828. She later marries Zeke. Ariana Jalia portrays a younger Michaela.
• Josh Dallas as Ben Stone, a college associate professor in mathematics, Michaela's brother, and father to Olive, Cal and Eden. He was a passenger on Flight 828.
• Athena Karkanis as Grace Stone (seasons 1–3; guest season 4), Ben's wife, Michaela's sister-in-law, and mother to Olive, Cal and Eden. She runs a catering business.
• J. R. Ramirez as Jared Vasquez, a detective at the NYPD's 129th Precinct and Michaela's ex-fiancé; he married Michaela's best friend during the five-plus year absence of Flight 828, but they divorce after Michaela's return. Jared is later promoted to police lieutenant.
• Luna Blaise as Olive Stone, Ben and Grace's daughter, Michaela's niece, Cal's twin sister, and Eden's older sister. Jenna Kurmemaj portrays a young Olive.
• Jack Messina (seasons 1–3; guest season 4) and Ty Doran (season 4; guest season 3) as Cal Stone, Ben and Grace's son, Michaela's nephew, Eden's older brother, and Olive's twin brother, who is five and a half years younger than she after Flight 828 returns. Cal was a passenger on Flight 828. Jack Messina portrays a younger Cal while Ty Doran portrays a teenage Cal.
• Parveen Kaur as Saanvi Bahl, a doctor and medical researcher at Koch Hospital and passenger on Flight 828. She is later recruited to work for the NSA's Project Eureka task force that is investigating 828.
• Matt Long as Zeke Landon (seasons 2–4; recurring season 1), a hiker who got trapped in a cave during a blizzard and was presumed dead for a year. He returns to life in a situation similar to what happened to Flight 828 passengers. He later marries Michaela and becomes the first person to beat his death date after saving Cal's life. After beating his death date, Zeke develops empathic powers. At the end of the first part of season 4, Zeke sacrifices himself to save Cal by absorbing Cal's returned cancer. Colin Critchley portrays a younger Zeke.
• Holly Taylor as Angelina Meyer (seasons 3–4), a Flight 828 passenger who is held captive by her religiously fanatic parents in Costa Rica after her return. She is later rescued by Michaela and Zeke and taken in by the Stones to live with them.
• Daryl Edwards as Robert Vance (season 4; recurring seasons 1–3), the director of the NSA who leads the investigation of the re-emergence of Montego Air Flight 828. Despite apparently being killed in season 1 during the raid on a Singularity Project's base, he is revealed to still be alive in season 2. With only a few people aware he is alive, Vance begins working covertly to uncover the mysteries of Flight 828 and his government's sinister objectives. After his survival is revealed to the government in season 3, Vance resumes his old position and heads up a new taskforce known as Project Eureka, examining the rebuilt wreckage of the plane for clues.

Seeds of the Word

Many of the character names in this TV series are biblically inspired. Here are some notable examples:

1. Michaela Stone: The name "Michaela" is derived from the biblical name "Michael", which means "who is like God?". Michael is an archangel mentioned in the Bible. This archangel is a significant figure in various religious traditions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In these traditions, Michael is regarded as a powerful celestial being, often depicted as an archangel or a chief angel.
   • In Judaism, Michael is considered as one of the archangels and is mentioned in the Hebrew Bible. The name "Michael" is derived from Hebrew and means "who is like God?" He is often associated with protection, righteousness, and the defender of the Jewish people.
   • In Christianity, Michael is also recognized as an archangel and is mentioned in the New Testament. He is depicted as a warrior and a guardian of God's people. In the Book of Revelation, Michael is described as leading the heavenly armies against the forces of evil.
   • In Islam, Michael, known as Mikail in Arabic, is considered one of the four archangels mentioned in the Quran. He is associated with acts of mercy and is believed to be responsible for the distribution of sustenance. Though the Quran does not explicitly mention the names of the four archangels, Islamic scholars have however identified, based on Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad), four archangels who play significant roles in carrying out the commands of Allah (God). These archangels are: Jibril (Gabriel), Mikail (Michael), Israfil, and Azrael.
   Overall, Michael the archangel is a significant figure in religious mythology, often portrayed as a powerful and protective celestial being.
2. Ben Stone: The name "Ben" is a shortened form of "Benjamin", a biblical name that means "son of the right hand" or "son of the south." In the Bible, Benjamin was one of the twelve sons of Jacob.
3. Grace Stone: The name "Grace" carries religious connotations and refers to the unmerited favor or mercy of God.
4. Cal Stone: The name "Cal" is a shortened form of "Caleb", a biblical name that means "faithful" or "devoted to God". In the Bible, Caleb was one of the spies sent by Moses to explore the Promised Land.
5. Olive Stone: The name "Olive" does not have a direct biblical reference, but it symbolizes peace and is often associated with religious symbolism and the story of Noah's Ark. It can also be associated with the Garden of Gethsemane also known as the Garden of Olives, where Jesus prayed with his apostles after the Last Supper and where he was arrested by the soldiers of the sanhedrin before being brought to trial before Pontius Pilate and ultimately being crucified to then rise again on the third day.
6. Zeke Landon: The name "Zeke" is a variant of "Ezekiel," a biblical name that means "God strengthens." In the Bible, Ezekiel was a prophet. The surname "Landon" does not have a specific biblical reference.
7. Eden: The name "Eden" is commonly associated with the biblical Garden of Eden, which was depicted as a paradise where Adam and Eve lived before the Fall. The name might have been chosen to evoke a sense of innocence or a metaphorical connection to a place of beauty.
8. Angelina: The name "Angel" or "Angela" has connections to heavenly messengers in various religious traditions, including Christianity. In the context of the TV series, the name Angelina might have been chosen for its aesthetic appeal or to convey a sense of grace or beauty.
9. Adrian: even though this name does not have a direct biblical connection, it can however refer to the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Hadrian was known for his architectural achievements and his efforts to consolidate and fortify the Roman Empire. The name Adrian can be associated with leadership, strength, and the ability to govern.

Divine Providence

The flight number for the mysterious reappearing aircraft is 828. This is a reference to Romans 8:28 and is the basis for many of the biblical references in this series:

This scripture verse is sewn on the pillow of Michaela's now-deceased mother.

The passengers of Flight 828 experience a time jump and encounter various mysterious events, but ultimately, their experiences and the subsequent events are portrayed as part of a larger divine plan. The verse reflects the underlying theme of the show, which explores concepts of fate, destiny, and the belief in a higher power orchestrating events for a greater purpose.

Calling

"Callings" refer to a central supernatural phenomenon experienced by the passengers of Flight 828. Callings are unexplained visions, messages, or instincts that guide the characters and often lead them to take specific actions.

Here are some key aspects of "callings" in the storyline:

• Collective Experience: Callings are shared experiences among the passengers of Flight 828. They can appear as vivid visions, hallucinations, or a strong sense of intuition, and they usually involve specific people, places, or events.
• Premonitions and Guidance: Callings often provide premonitions or guidance to the characters, giving them glimpses of future events or warnings about potential dangers. They can be cryptic and require interpretation to understand their significance.
• Time Sensitivity: Callings often have a time-sensitive nature, urging the characters to act swiftly or within a specific timeframe to prevent negative outcomes or assist others in need.
• Individual Interpretation: Each character may interpret the callings differently based on their unique perspectives, skills, or personal connections. This can lead to different approaches to understanding and fulfilling the callings.
• Connection to Fate and Destiny: Callings are believed to be connected to a greater plan or purpose. They suggest that the passengers of Flight 828 have a specific role to play in the events unfolding around them and that their experiences are not random.

Throughout the series, callings serve as a central plot device, driving the characters' actions and influencing the overall narrative. They provide a supernatural and mysterious element to the show, pushing the characters to unravel the mysteries surrounding their time jump and their place in a greater cosmic plan.

The pastor Adrian, having been isolated from the rest of the passengers, interprets his "callings" in a negative manner, as though they will bring him to spill blood. Michaela finds him during a "flashback" on the mysterious flight with blood covering his hands.

In the Bible, there are several examples of individuals receiving callings or divine assignments. Here are a few notable examples:

1. Moses: Moses received a calling from God at the burning bush in Exodus 3. God spoke to Moses and called him to go to Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt.
2. Noah: Noah received a calling from God to build an ark in order to save his family and pairs of animals from the Great Flood. God instructed Noah on the dimensions and construction of the ark in Genesis 6.
3. Samuel: As a young boy, Samuel received a calling from God while serving in the tabernacle under the guidance of Eli the priest. God called Samuel by name and appointed him as a prophet to deliver messages and guide the nation of Israel.
4. Isaiah: Isaiah received a powerful calling from God in Isaiah 6. In a vision, Isaiah saw the Lord seated on a throne and heard the voice of the Lord asking, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" Isaiah responded, "Here am I. Send me!"
5. Jeremiah: Jeremiah, known as the "weeping prophet," received a calling from God to be a prophet to the nations (Jeremiah 1:5).
6. Paul: Saul, later known as the Apostle Paul, received a dramatic calling on the road to Damascus. Jesus appeared to him in a blinding light, and Paul heard a voice saying, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" This calling led to Paul's conversion and his subsequent mission to spread the gospel.

These examples demonstrate how individuals in the Bible received specific callings from God, often involving instructions, tasks, or appointments to fulfill divine purposes. The callings varied in nature and scope but were generally intended to serve God's plan and bring about His purposes in the world.

Death and Resurrection

In the TV series "Manifest," the themes of death and resurrection are integral to the storyline and play significant roles in the overarching narrative. Here's how these themes are tied into the storyline:

1. Death of Flight 828 Passengers: The initial event that sets the series in motion is the presumed death of the passengers aboard Flight 828 when it disappears and reappears after a time jump of five and a half years. The passengers experience a sense of loss, grieving the lives they left behind and struggling to adapt to a world that has moved on without them.
2. Resurrection through Time Jump: The reappearance of Flight 828 and the survival of its passengers can be seen as a form of resurrection. They were presumed dead, but they are given a second chance at life. Their return raises questions about the nature of death, the possibilities of supernatural phenomena, and the mysteries surrounding their fate.
3. Renewed Life and Second Chances: The passengers, upon their return, often face personal challenges and struggles but also find new opportunities and a sense of renewal. They are given a chance to reconnect with loved ones, make amends, and pursue paths they may not have taken before. The concept of resurrection ties into the idea of second chances and the potential for personal transformation.
4. Symbolic Resurrection in Character Arcs: Throughout the series, many characters experience transformative journeys that can be seen as symbolic resurrections. They confront their past mistakes, grapple with their identities, and undergo personal growth. The themes of death and resurrection are explored in the context of their emotional and psychological journeys.
5. Mystery Surrounding Death Dates: In "Manifest," the passengers begin to experience "death dates," which are visions of their potential future deaths. These visions create a sense of urgency and heighten the tension around life and death. The characters grapple with the notion of destiny, trying to understand if their futures are predetermined or if they can alter their fates.

The themes of death and resurrection in "Manifest" add layers of mystery, emotional depth, and spiritual exploration to the storyline. They raise philosophical questions about life, death, fate, and the nature of human existence.

Peacock symbolism

In season 3 episode 3 "Wingman", while Olive is exploring ancient mythologies by studying pieces of Egyptian artwork that TJ had given her, she stumbles upon some clues and a peacock feather at the same time that Cal has a vision of a peacock. The peacock has various religious and symbolic significances in different cultures and religions. Here are some of its religious associations:

1. Christianity: In Christianity, the peacock has been associated with immortality, resurrection, and the glory of God. Its extravagant and vibrant plumage was believed to symbolize the radiant beauty and eternal life found in Christ. Peacock feathers were used as decorative elements in religious art and architecture, particularly during the Byzantine era.
2. Hinduism: In Hinduism, the peacock is closely associated with the deity Lord Murugan (also known as Kartikeya or Skanda). Lord Murugan is often depicted riding a peacock and is considered the god of war, victory, and wisdom. The peacock is regarded as a sacred bird and a symbol of beauty, grace, and divine protection.
3. Buddhism: In Buddhism, the peacock is regarded as a symbol of purity, wisdom, and enlightenment. It represents openness and acceptance of all experiences and is associated with the concept of breaking free from the cycle of suffering (samsara) and attaining spiritual liberation (nirvana).
4. Greek Mythology: In ancient Greek mythology, the peacock was associated with the goddess Hera. It was believed that Hera adorned the tail feathers of the peacock with "eyes" as a symbol of her watchfulness and all-seeing knowledge. The peacock, therefore, became a symbol of protection and divine vision.
5. Islam: In Islamic art and culture, the peacock is often depicted as a symbol of beauty, abundance, and spiritual guidance. It is associated with the concept of Paradise and is believed to have resplendent feathers in the heavenly realm.

Faith and Salvation

The themes of faith and salvation play significant roles in the storyline of "Manifest." Here's how these themes are tied into the narrative:

1. Faith in the Unknown: The passengers of Flight 828 are thrust into a mysterious and supernatural experience that challenges their understanding of the world. As they navigate the unexplained phenomena and the callings they receive, faith becomes a central theme. Some characters turn to faith in a higher power or a divine plan to make sense of their circumstances and find meaning in their experiences.
2. Belief in a Greater Purpose: The concept of a greater purpose or a higher calling is intertwined with the theme of faith. The passengers grapple with the idea that their return and the subsequent events are part of a larger plan. They seek to uncover the meaning behind their experiences and whether they have a specific role to play in shaping the world.
3. Redemption and Salvation: Several characters in "Manifest" seek redemption and salvation in the face of their past mistakes, regrets, or personal struggles. The callings they receive often guide them toward acts of selflessness, forgiveness, or making amends. The theme of salvation is explored through the characters' quests for personal redemption and the potential for finding peace and healing.
4. Trusting the Journey: Faith in the journey and trusting in the process become essential for the characters. They face numerous challenges and uncertainties but rely on their faith and belief in something greater to guide them forward. They learn to trust in the callings they receive, even when the path is unclear or difficult.
5. Moral and Ethical Dilemmas: The themes of faith and salvation also come into play when characters are faced with moral and ethical dilemmas. They must grapple with the choices they make and the consequences of their actions. Faith and the search for salvation guide them in making decisions that align with their values and the greater good.

The themes of faith and salvation in "Manifest" explore the complexities of belief, trust, and the search for meaning in extraordinary circumstances. These themes add depth to the character journeys and highlight the spiritual and existential aspects of the series.

Faith and Science

The storyline in the TV series Manifest explores the relationship between Faith and Science.

The tailfin of the airplane was being studied in a government facility by Saanvi, a scientist from India. When Cal goes up to it and touches it, he disappears. Ben becomes desperate in his search to find Cal again, coming to the conclusion that the tailfin must be thrown back into the ocean. The scientiest however is contrary to this choice, convinced that it would make no sense to throw it into the ocean rather than continue to study it; however she changes her mind when she sees writing in Cal's drawings that is in her own native language, along with the constellation of the dragon which she always gazed upon as a child through her telescope in trying to "see" her deceased mother among the stars of heaven. She had given up on the pursuit of seeing her mother in the heavens, but Cal's drawing became a sign for her: she understood that perhaps faith had a role alongside scientific research, and that she should listen to Ben and Grace. It is thus decided to bring the tailfin back to the ocean, in the specific spot that Ben had located.

See also

• Departure, a TV series about a crashed airliner investigation
• Lost, a TV series about a crashed airliner on a mysterious island
• 4400, a TV series about people from various different times in the past who come back to life
• Les Revenants ("The Returned"), a French TV series about people who mysteriously return years after their death without having aged and their attempts to reintegrate into their former lives
• The Returned, an American remake of the French TV series
• Glitch, an Australian TV series about people from various different times in the past who come back to life in a country town

External links

• Official website
• Manifest at IMDb