How Does the Treadstone TV Series Connect to the Bourne Movies?

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As a longtime fan of the Bourne franchise, I can confidently say that I’ve seen more than my fair share of spy movies and read enough Robert Ludlum novels to fill a small library. The world of the Bourne movies, with its intricate plot lines and high-octane action sequences, has always been a thrilling escape for me.

The mysterious and thrilling spy setting depicted in the Bourne film series appeals to various types of viewers. Filled with high-octane action and intricate, labyrinthine storylines, this cinematic universe can be enjoyed as light entertainment while munching on popcorn or meticulously analyzed alongside Robert Ludlum novels, offering a chance to delve deeper into the novel-based source material that sparked its creation.

For enthusiasts delving into the rich CIA-centric lore of the Bourne series, starting with Robert Ludlum’s 1980 novel “The Bourne Identity” and expanding through numerous sequels, there appears to be an endless source of material to explore. The books are quite detailed, and at times, so are the films.

For More on Treadstone and Bourne

Experience the Thrill: Diving Deeper into the World of Treadstone – a Bourne Spinoff

But on the other hand, it’s fun to just sit back and watch franchise star Matt Damon crash cars and smack down attackers, all while staying one step ahead of his secret CIA handlers… and to do that, there’s no need to know where any of this spy-story stuff actually comes from.

Titled “Treadstone,” a short-lived USA series that expands the “Bourne” franchise beyond its main character, follows a similar pattern: Featuring Jeremy Irvine (known for his roles in “War Horse” and “Great Expectations”) as the rogue agent John Randolph Bentley, it’s filled with action and rapid-fire pace… For those who prefer to delve deeper and connect the numerous clues the series provides to link the series back to the books, there’s certainly enough intrigue to satisfy longtime “Bourne” enthusiasts.

How Treadstone ties in with the Bourne movie franchise

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In 2019, the television series Treadstone made its debut for just one season. It was the brainchild of Tim Kring, who had previously demonstrated his knack for serialized suspense in shows like Crossing Jordan and NBC’s Heroes (which are also available on Peacock). Unlike the Bourne films, neither Jason Bourne nor Matt Damon appear in the series, although there are occasional subtle mentions to the parallel off-screen events depicted in those movies.

Instead of Treadstone, it sets up a distinct yet interconnected universe with unique characters and an expansive list of intriguing, globetrotting spy locales. The series narrative endeavors to delve into the past, revealing the roots of the same covert CIA program that molded figures like Bourne into highly disciplined, lethally obedient assassins.

In the movies, Jason Bourne transforms into an unconventional operative who manages to dodge his designated role as a highly trained (yet somewhat mind-controlled) super-agent from a clandestine CIA operation called Operation Treadstone, which originated in the 1970s. Nowadays, Operation Treadstone has been discontinued and replaced by a revamped version called Operation Blackbriar. However, the TV series Treadstone focuses on exploring the development of Operation Treadstone from its inception, moving between current events and agent Bentley’s initial activation as a Treadstone “cicada” (the term used for agents who are prepared and conditioned, much like Bourne, to “emerge” with their abilities and commence their new lives as lethal assassins) back in 1973.

It’s interesting to note that Bourne wasn’t the only agent who suspected something suspicious about their part in the agency’s long-standing, mind-control activities. The 1973 incident involving Bentley sets the stage for “Treadstone”, hinting at possible Soviet involvement as well. The series follows separate narratives focusing on Treadstone agents Tara Coleman (Tracy Ifeachor), Soyun Park (Han Hyo-joo), and Doug McKenna (Brian J. Smith). These stories intertwine, coming together – or at least getting progressively closer to each other.

As Bentley delves deeper into his personal enigma, he’s gradually recovering lost memories and revisiting critical points in his Treadstone mind control odyssey. Meanwhile, the show subtly hints at a significant connection (no spoilers!) between his initial Soviet escape and the current missions of his fellow Treadstone operatives. Remember, this series can get intricate! Yet, throughout its single season comprising ten episodes, Treadstone sticks to the thrilling logic that underpins the larger Bourne film franchise.

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2024-12-06 20:01