Watch The Border

The Border is a Canadian drama television series produced by the CBC that aired for three seasons from 2008 to 2010. The plot focuses on the elite team of officers within the fictional Immigration and Customs Security agency (ICS) who are responsible for protecting Canada's borders from any and all potential security threats.

The lead character of the show is ICS team leader, Major Mike Kessler, played by James McGowan. Kessler is a tough and loyal officer who believes that protecting Canada's borders is a critical duty that should be pursued with utmost dedication. The rest of the team is comprised of various skilled and dedicated officers, including Kessler's second in command, Deputy Director Maggie Norton (played by Catherine Disher), and intelligence analyst, Gray Jackson (played by Graham Abbey).

The show explores a vast list of complex issues, ranging from terrorism and smuggling to human trafficking and government corruption. With this much complexity, the series never shies away from examining relevant issues and topics to keep its audiences connected.

Each episode typically features an individual storyline relating to national security, usually involving some form of criminal activity at the Canadian border. As the show is set in Canada, its primary setting is Toronto and surrounding areas, but the team is willing to travel the globe to investigate cases.

Throughout the series, the show also introduces various recurring characters, both allies and foes of the ICS. They form a pool of characters that the team interacts with from time to time, adding depth and variety to the show. Some of the recurring faces are assigned to other law enforcement agencies or governmental departments, such as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) or the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), who are interested in assisting ICS in various circumstances.

A notable inclusion in the show is a critical character named Lorna Corbett (played by Grace Park), who served as the ICS liaison with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in aid of joint operations, especially where American interests were involved. The inclusion of Lorna demonstrates the strong link between the USA and Canada when it comes to national security concerns.

One of the unique features of The Border is its emphasis on Canadian immigration law, public policy, and political affairs. As the ICS deals with immigration and customs regulations, the show provides an insight into how Canada deals with immigration issues, such as asylum seekers, refugee process, and visa regulations.

The characters of the show possess different backgrounds, personalities, and experiences, lending to intriguing conflicts, cracking jokes, and drama. The show successfully demonstrates their commitment to fighting for national security, but it also successfully creates an acknowledgement of the extensive mental strain that comes with the territory. PTSD, anxiety, and substance abuse are frequently touched upon issues that add a level of depth to the characters involved.

As an action show, viewers can expect plenty of thrilling sequences, including car chases, hand-to-hand combat, and high-speed pursuits. The show often challenges viewers to delve into the moral grey area, showcasing the moral and ethical nature of law enforcement.

Aside from its notable cast and usual storyline, the show's technical production aspects are top-notch. The show is filmed in high definition, creating stunning and highly detailed visuals. The stylish camera shots are recreated artistically, especially during tactical operations and their aftermath. The elaborate set-pieces during episodes lend to the immersion into the dangerous situations the agents get involved in.

Overall, The Border is a highly enjoyable Canadian television show that weaves multiple storylines and recurring characters within an overarching narrative. The storylines are carefully designed to explore contemporary issues, with a careful balance of action, drama, and suspense. The technical aspects and acting performances contribute greatly to providing viewers with a thrilling and memorable show. Even though the show ended in 2010, it continues to be a popular and highly recommended Canadian show.

The Border is a series that is currently running and has 3 seasons (38 episodes). The series first aired on January 7, 2008.