What do you do when following orders means sacrificing innocent lives? In this episode, we examine the new Peacock series The Copenhagen Test starring Simu Liu, exploring the ethical dilemmas facing modern intelligence operatives. Through a spy thriller that uses biometric surveillance technology as its MacGuffin, we unpack questions about collateral damage, revenge versus ideology, and whether spy agencies can ever justify their methods.
Questions We Discussed
- What is the Copenhagen test and why does the show use it as its title? We explore this impossible moral dilemma presented to special operations soldiers and intelligence agents, examining whether there are situations where no ethical choice exists.
- Does the show take a stance on whether US spy agencies are justified? We analyze how the series sidesteps ideological questions by making its villains motivated by money and personal revenge rather than competing political philosophies.
- How does the show handle collateral damage in intelligence operations? We examine powerful scenes showing the emotional aftermath of missions, particularly through the character Parker who witnesses the deadly consequences of her recommendations.
- Can spy fiction avoid taking political positions in today’s climate? We discuss whether it’s possible—or desirable—for a show to focus solely on questioning the means while deferring judgment about the ends.
- Is this show continuing or subverting recent trends in spy media? We trace how spy fiction has evolved from pro-agency to more skeptical portrayals, and where The Copenhagen Test fits in that trajectory.
Additional Topics
- The effectiveness of Simu Liu as an action hero leading man
- How the show’s diverse casting enhances the story
- The show’s use of near-future surveillance technology as a storytelling device
- Whether the “Russian nesting doll” villain structure sets up compelling future seasons
- Comparisons to The Bourne Identity, Burn Notice, and other spy thriller influences
