Amazon's "Carnival Row" is fully embracing the 'Fear of the Other' theme that has become increasingly prevalent in works of fiction over the last few years. With the world's sociopolitical climate growing more tumultuous it's no surprise that content creators are drawing inspiration from these issues when developing stories and character for audience to empathise with. The world of "Carnival Row" uses a fantastical premise of fairy-like creatures which symbolize the Other that this society's most privileged are prone to discriminating against. When the show visited San Diego Comic Con, Amazon included it in its roster of experiences and won many over with its effective immersion and efficiency in introducing these themes to those who went through this experience.

Series lead Orlando Bloom portrays a human, Rycroft Philostrate, and found the show's material to be rich and easy to connect to. "First of all, the great gift and opportunity of stepping into this show was because it was so timely and it did feel like it spoke to a lot of the issues and with relevance to what's happening in the world today. Alongside that, because we're in this fantastical world in this remarkable brain child of Travis Beacham, we're able to examine with real humanity some of the really tragic and desperate situations that are happening in the world but with an objective and an empathetic view because we're looking at the fae folk, as we call them. It enables us to step outside of ourselves and look at this situation and think around it. It was so beautifully handled by both Travis and Mark in the writing that it was a gift for all of us. Of course, I think as actors, we feel a certain sense of responsibility to deliver on that. That's really down to the show-runners and in the writing and that was the very good fortune that we had with them."

With established names like Orlando Bloom and Cara Delevingne leading the show, it begs the question of whether more diverse faces will be included in the conversation. Actor David Gyasi, who portrays Agreus, chimes in on this discussion of the show's relevance to the world we all live in.

"I have two kids and I'm of African origin. They're showing signs of wanting to get into this business. There's the African side of me that's like, 'Well you have the option of being a lawyer, doctor, or an engineer.' Then there's the other side of me that I think... when you want to get into this business the best advice that I give people is, go out and talk to people and listen. That helps you to get a perspective on life and how humans work and so, as an actor, when you get an opportunity and a script that feels like it's speaking about our world that we recognise, it's a real gift and like Orlando says, an honour. That's how we approached it."

Producer Travis Beacham adds his perspective as a writer on the show. "It's important. I think the thing that art has a chance to do is get people to look at issues and discuss those issues. I don't know if it necessarily needs to be more than that. That alone is a very substantial lift. I think a lot of our problems that we have as a society stem from the fact that we don't talk about things anymore. It's considered rude to discuss politics. As a result, we all have placed ourselves in these bubbles. The nice thing about art is it can maybe, hopefully, jump-start some of those conversations. If you have those conversations, it's ultimately healthy for our society."

"Carnival Row" will premiere on August 30 on Amazon Prime.

Listen to the full press conference or "Carnival Row" from SDCC here:

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Amazon Prime has set up a series of Experiences for Comic-Con goers to gain the opportunity to dive into the worlds of their different shows including "The Expanse," "The Boys," and "Carnival Row." Whether you're going onto a strange new planet (The Expanse) or attempting to solve a crime committed by out-of-control superheroes (The Boys), there are many adventures to be had. But by far, the most meaningful and powerful Experience of the group is "Carnival Row."

The attendees are split into two groups, humans and fae (or anything pertaining to the broader supernatural world). Immediately there is a stark contrast in the manner of treatment. Humans are spoken to with respect and consideration while anyone belonging to the supernatural world is berated, has their documents meticulously inspected, and generally handled with a sense of distrust.

What's particularly powerful about this premise and the world-building that's established throughout the Experience is that it not only effectively introduces the attendees to the world of the show, but strikes a resonant and timely chord with current events. As a result, this is the experience that becomes most memorable. After entering a marketplace, you are gradually ushered off into a dark but sultry club that fosters feelings of wonder and secrecy (please remember that this Experience is intended for 18+ people only).

The club is filled with entertainment ranging from seductive dancing, peep-holes, and lush vocals. We'll refrain from spoiling the final plot development of the Experience's arc but when all is said and done, one can't help but feel compelled to bookmark the show as a must-watch to gain an even deeper insight into the world of "Carnival Row" and all the socially relevant layers in the storytelling.

All's well that ends well, as attendees are treated to one last parting gift: the opportunity to take flight and pose as a fairy complete with a stylish cape. This Experience is not to be missed!

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