House of Cards

Set in present day Washington, D.C., House of Cards follows Frank Underwood, an ambitious and ruthless politician, and his equally determined wife Claire as they push for influence at every level of power. The show traces the calculated moves, alliances and betrayals they engineer, from whispered deals in back rooms to public displays designed to shape perception. Tone is cold and strategic, with characters using charm and cruelty in equal measure. Episodes often focus on the mechanics of power rather than moral redemption, keeping the stakes high without revealing major plot turns or final outcomes.

The series was developed for American television by Beau Willimon, adapted from Michael Dobbs' source material and the earlier BBC miniseries, and premiered on Netflix in 2013. Notable filmmakers were involved up front, including David Fincher directing the opening episodes.

House of Cards drew significant awards attention, securing multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations and earning wins in several categories, particularly for acting and production. Its presence in awards conversations was an early sign that streaming originals could compete with traditional networks.

The show left a clear imprint on pop culture, especially through Frank's direct addresses to the camera, which became a defining stylistic device and a frequent target for parody. Its imagery and key scenes entered public discussion, influencing how later political dramas treated media, strategy and the private lives of public figures.

Critics generally praised the series for its tight plotting, performances and dark tone, reflected in a strong vote average from viewers. Major themes include the corrosive effects of unchecked ambition, the role of media in shaping power, and the personal costs of political life. The ensemble cast, including Robin Wright as Claire Underwood and Michael Kelly as Doug Stamper, helped give the series a steady, focused energy across seasons.