Is there anything that might dethrone Reacher? Currently, this action series remains the leading title on Prime Video’s top 10 list in the U.S. While none of the three shows mentioned below are in the top 10 at the moment, each has garnered its own following. The first on the list is a Prime Video original that has already aired two seasons, with a third on the horizon.
The second series aired for three seasons on NBC during the 2010s but was unfortunately canceled prematurely. Lastly, our top pick this week is an Emmy-nominated thriller featuring Julia Roberts.
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Cross
The iconic homicide detective receives a television adaptation
Prime Video appears eager to replicate the successful formula of Reacher, by taking a well-known book series with a prominent character and translating it to television. Each season is designed to revolve around this character, tackling a different book from the series each time. Their new contender is Cross, adapted from James Patterson’s Alex Cross series.
Aldis Hodge stars as Alex Cross, a D.C.-based homicide detective and forensic psychologist specializing in killer profiling. Cross also faces personal struggles, grappling with the loss of his wife. In its inaugural season, Cross delves into the murder of a Black Lives Matter activist, which ignites significant racial turmoil in the city. The second season shifts focus as Cross hunts for a murderer targeting corrupt billionaires.
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Hannibal
The legendary fictional serial killer comes to life
If I were to select four of my favorite films on Letterboxd, The Silence of the Lambs, celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, would undoubtedly be one. This cinematic classic features the unforgettable Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a psychiatrist with a sinister side. While Anthony Hopkins’ portrayal is legendary, Mads Mikkelsen’s performance in NBC’s Hannibal is also commendable.
Crafted by Bryan Fuller, Hannibal brings together FBI profiler Will Graham (Hugh Dancy) and Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Mikkelsen) to investigate a serial killer who has abducted several college students. To catch this killer, Graham relies on Lecter’s assistance, unaware of Lecter’s true nature as a cannibalistic murderer.
Unlike many adaptations that struggle to capture the essence of their source material, Hannibal offers a fresh perspective on its iconic characters while presenting a gripping narrative. This horror series doesn’t shy away from graphic content, setting it apart on traditional television. Canceled too quickly, Hannibal is deserving of a revival.
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Homecoming
What transpired at the Homecoming Center?
In the past, movie stars and television stars typically occupied separate spheres. When an A-list actor ventured into television, it was often perceived as a sign of a waning film career. Today, the lines have blurred significantly, and many actors transition between films and TV. Julia Roberts’ involvement in the series Homecoming in 2018 marked a significant milestone in this trend.
Inspired by a scripted podcast from Gimlet Media, Homecoming‘s first season unfolds in two timelines. In 2018, Heidi Bergman (Roberts) serves as a caseworker at the Homecoming Transitional Support Center, which provides assistance to veterans reintegrating into civilian life. By 2022, Heidi finds herself working as a waitress, struggling with amnesia regarding her experiences at Homecoming. Her inquiries about her past lead her down a path that may unearth sinister truths.
The show’s popularity paved the way for a second season featuring Janelle Monáe as a character who awakens on a rowboat without any memory of her identity.
Homecoming presents captivating television, especially with its dual-timeline structure. Sam Esmail’s direction in the first season complements his experience in crafting complex narratives in Mr. Robot. Drawing inspiration from 1970s paranoid thrillers, Homecoming offers a refreshing approach for mystery enthusiasts, showcasing innovative storytelling.
What else do you wish to watch this weekend?
Diversity is a prime benefit of streaming platforms, offering a wealth of movies and shows at your fingertips. For those seeking films under 90 minutes on Paramount+, consider Paranormal Activity or A Quiet Place. For thrillers on Netflix, try Anaconda or 1917.
