A Minnesotan's guide to Fargo

Does the impressive new FX series double down on the stereotypes established in the Coen brothers' original film? You betcha.

Fargo
(Image credit: (Matthias Clamer/FX))

Tonight, FX is set to premiere a limited, 10-episode series based on the Coen brothers' legendary 1996 film Fargo, which scored with audiences and critics alike by infusing a twisty neo-noir narrative with a healthy dose of Minnesota nice. Having seen a few episodes, it's clear that the Fargo series is more than a mere cash grab attempting to capitalize on the movie's legacy; this is a smart, beautifully acted miniseries that honors its source material while carving out some new ground in the crowded TV landscape.

Some critics have lavished praise on the new series; others have been more skeptical. But however audiences respond to this small-screen version of Fargo, there's one place where it's guaranteed to have a unique impact: Minnesota.

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Scott Meslow

Scott Meslow is the entertainment editor for TheWeek.com. He has written about film and television at publications including The Atlantic, POLITICO Magazine, and Vulture.