The campaign caught attention but remained abstract, leaving little clue as to what the show was actually about.
The marketers can be forgiven for this approach, as the show itself seemed uncertain.
Having completed its second season, it seems that it remains unsure.
This, however, is both a weakness and a strength.
Fortituderetains its curious kaleidoscope of genres.
Part science fiction, part fantasy.
A little murder mystery.
Consequently, they all suffer.
Its a shame, because in its individual parts,Fortitudeis very good indeed.
Some of it nears excellence.
Through this couple,Fortitudeoffers a portrait of a relationship clouded by trauma.
Its aided by sensitive performances by Sienna Guillory and Luke Treadaway who humanize their characters so well.
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Indeed, so many of the shows performances are rewarding.
The show lingers far too long on less interesting characters.
This confusion extends to the shows expanding mythos.
The impact is that death feels cheap and easy, appearing with the weary regularity of advert bumpers.
When Christopher Ecclestones Professor Stoddart was killed off in the first episode, it was mildly shocking.
By the time we lose Hildur, its almost become commonplace.
Nevertheless, it was comparatively bloodless, which by this point was a strength.
The show is addicted to gore to the point that it all becomes rather wearying.
Episode nine was a particular struggle with Dan Anderssens extended torture and Vladeks gruesome self-castration.
At times, the show tests the viewers patience.
At its worst, it becomes a test of endurance.
Fortituderemains a show with a great core idea.
When it works,Fortitudeoffers all of this.
It just needs a tighter focus.
Fortitude series 2 is currently airing on Sky Atlantic on Thursday nights in the UK.
The entire series is available to watch via Sky Box Sets and Now TV.
