Classics: A Review of Ponies By Lauren Ennis

"We're women. People only look at us if they want to have sex with us or marry us" embassy secretary Twila Hasbeck aptly notes. With that revelation begins a madcap adventure through the streets of 1970's Moscow where danger and secrets lurk around every corner. Blending dark comedy with Cold War spy drama to expert effect Ponies is one of the most original, exhilarating, and hilarious series on television today. For thriller that will have you gasping and laughing in equal get off to the races with Bea and Twila in Ponies.

The story begins in 1970's Moscow with Bea Grant and Twila Hasbeck working as secretaries at the American Embassy while their husbands are working operations for the CIA. Both women soon find their lives upended when their husbands are killed in a plane crash. As they learn about the unusual and mysterious circumstances surrounding the crash they become convinced that the tragedy was part of something more sinister. They then decide to conduct their own investigation and persuade their husband's former boss to hire them as agents. Despite his misgivings he eventually gives in because women are considered "persons of no interest" who the Soviets would never suspect. The unlikely duo are then thrust into a world of intrigue, danger, betrayal, and plenty of spyjinks. Can two CIA widows share a mission without driving each other crazy? Find out when you pay a visit to Moscow with Twila and Bea in Ponies.

Equal parts espionage thriller and buddy comedy Ponies is some of the best viewing this side of the Iron Curtain . The story offers a fresh twist the Cold War drama through its unique blend of breezy humor and gritty honesty. Rather than acting as a tired propaganda piece the series casts an equally critical eye to both the KGB and their CIA counterparts. Through its depiction of the crosses, double-crosses, and exploitation that both the US and USSR engaged in the series highlights the devastating lengths that both were willing to go to secure victory. In this way, the series sets itself apart from both classic and modern spy dramas by refusing to either sanitize or subvert history. Even as it rachets up the tension with each episode the series never loses its sense of humor. Through its depiction of two fish-out-of-water heroines who are in way over their heads the series highlights the outlandish nature of intelligence work. Similarly, its portrayal of Bea and Twila's efforts to maintain their cover showcases the terrifying absurdity of life in the USSR. Through its blend of humor, thrills, and history Ponies easily outruns its competition.  

The series takes viewers on a groovy journey to 1970's Moscow thanks to the stellar work of its cast. Harriet Walter blends maternal warmth and steely resolve as Bea's grandmother, Manya. Petro Ninovskyi imbues local asset Sasha with an endearing blend of moral uprightness and boyish charm. Vic Michaelis is deliciously devious as scheming secretary, Cheryl. Artom Gilz expertly balances charisma and menace as ruthless KGB agent, Andrei. Lila Walters infuses black market racketeer Ivanna with biting wit. Adrian Lester is no nonsense as Bea and Twila's put-upon boss, Dane. Nicholas Podany balances quirky humor with decency as CIA agent, Ray. Even in the midst of excellent supporting performances the series belongs to Emilia Clarke and Haley Lu Richardson as Bea and Twila. Clarke turns her Game of Thrones image on its head in a nuanced performance that sees Bea evolve from bookish good-girl to resilient, capable agent. Haley Lu Richardson steals each scene in which she appears in her magnetic turn as street-wise and wise-cracking Twila. The two play off of each other with a comedic timing and chemistry worthy of such classic duos as Lemon and Mathau. 

Alternating between thrills and laughs Ponies is a Valentine to Cold War thrillers and classic buddy comedies alike yet still manages to feel refreshingly original. The script expertly blends tension and hijinks to create a madcap caper that is certain to leave viewers on the edge of their seats. The performances transport viewers to the danger and absurdity of Cold War Moscow. For a guaranteed winner place your bets on Twila and Bea in Ponies.