Introduction
The supernatural drama ‘Manifest‘ has captivated viewers around the globe. But as we delve into the show’s mysterious plot, one question often arises: is ‘Manifest’ based on a true story? Let’s explore this intriguing question and uncover the inspirations behind this hit series.
What is ‘Manifest’?
Before we explore the truth behind the story, let’s first understand what ‘Manifest’ is all about. ‘Manifest‘ is an American supernatural drama television series that premiered on September 24, 2018, on NBC. The show revolves around the passengers and crew of a commercial airliner who suddenly reappear after being presumed dead for five and a half years. The plot thickens as these passengers begin to face the changed realities of their lives and loved ones while experiencing guiding voices and visions of events yet to occur, referred to as “callings”.
Is ‘Manifest’ Based on a True Story?
Despite its supernatural elements, many viewers wonder if the series is grounded in reality. The short answer is no; ‘Manifest‘ isn’t based on a true story per se. But the plot does borrow elements from a real-life incident that bewildered the world: the unexplained disappearance of Malaysian Airlines Flight 370 in March 2014.
The Real-Life Inspiration
While the series creator, Jeff Rake, conceived the initial idea for ‘Manifest’ before the Malaysian Airlines flight disappeared, the real-life tragedy certainly gave the story a stronger sense of relevance. The disappearance of Flight 370 and the ensuing global attention helped bring ‘Manifest’s complex timelines and mysteries to life. The series frames its narrative around a tragic yet compelling event that pushes viewers to wonder how they would react in the passengers’ place, thereby enhancing the stakes and making the series more relatable.
Art Imitating Life
Manifest, although not a true story, is a reflection of real-life events that impact us deeply. It’s not uncommon for filmmakers and writers to be inspired by true stories, spinning them into unique narratives. After all, art should reflect and refract elements of real life to transcend the sum of its parts.
Other Inspirations
The mysterious disappearance of Flight 370 has sparked numerous other media projects. From movies like ‘A Dark Reflection’ that focus on airline safety issues to Netflix’s documentary ‘MH370: The Plane That Disappeared’, the event has left a lasting impact on popular culture. These projects often borrow some details from real circumstances, even though the stories they tell are entirely fictional.
FAQ
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What is the TV show Manifest about?
Manifest is a supernatural drama television series that follows the lives of passengers and crew members of a commercial airliner who suddenly reappear after being presumed dead for five and a half years. The show explores their attempts to reintegrate into society and the mysterious “callings” they begin to experience.
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Is Manifest based on a true story?
While the specific events and characters in Manifest are entirely fictional, the show’s premise is loosely connected to the real-life mystery of Malaysian Airlines Flight 370. This flight disappeared in March 2014 and has never been found, sparking international intrigue and speculation. However, it’s important to note that the idea for Manifest was conceived by Jeff Rake before the Flight 370 incident occurred.
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Did the disappearance of Flight 370 influence the creation of Manifest?
Yes, the disappearance of Flight 370 played a “pivotal role” in the development of Manifest, according to series creator and showrunner Jeff Rake. While Rake came up with the idea for Manifest before the Flight 370 incident, the real-life disappearance of the airplane and the ensuing media attention made his concept feel more relevant and real, aiding its acceptance by networks.
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Has the story of Flight 370 influenced other media projects?
Absolutely. The mysterious disappearance of Flight MH370 has inspired a range of media projects, from movies and TV shows to documentaries. These projects explore various theories about the flight’s disappearance and often weave in fictional narratives around the real-life mystery.
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Who is Jeff Rake?
Jeff Rake is the creator and showrunner of Manifest. He conceived the idea for the show, initially without any connection to real-life flight disappearances. However, with the occurrence of the Flight 370 incident, Rake’s concept gained more relevance and was accepted for development.
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Will there be more seasons of Manifest?
Yes. After initially being canceled by NBC after three seasons, Manifest was picked up by Netflix, which renewed the series for a fourth and final season. This final season consists of 20 episodes and is expected to conclude the series’ narrative.
Conclusion: Unraveling the Mystery of Manifest
As we draw to a close on our deep dive into the intriguing world of “Manifest,” one fact becomes increasingly clear: while the thrilling series may not be a direct recounting of real events, it certainly taps into the universal human fascination with the unexplained and the unknown. The connection between Manifest and the real-life mystery of Malaysian Airlines Flight 370 is a testament to the power of art in reflecting and refracting elements of our reality, creating narratives that feel profoundly real, even within the realm of the supernatural.
Manifest takes an unsolved real-world enigma and builds a compelling, imaginative narrative around it. It’s a classic example of art imitating life, then pushing the boundaries to create a story that is both fascinating and thought-provoking. The show forces us to ask ourselves: “What if that were me?” It’s a question that draws us in, keeps us hooked, and has us eagerly waiting for the next episode.
Whether you’re a dedicated fan or a curious newcomer, Manifest offers a rich, suspense-filled viewing experience. As we look forward to the series’ conclusion, one thing is certain: the journey of Manifest, much like the mystery of Flight 370, will continue to captivate, inspire, and intrigue us for years to come.
