The last thing I need in my life is more depressing TV. Yet, BLACK BIRD is expertly crafted by creator Dennis Lehane (MYSTIC RIVER, SHUTTER ISLAND, GONE, BABY GONE). There’s a reason this show has a 97% fresh score on Rotton Tomatoes. And I predict award nominations for Ray Liotta 😢, Taron Egerton, and the haunting Paul Walter Hauser.
Sorry, but I must go down a PWH (Paul Walter Hauser) rabbit hole. This guy continues to be the most interesting actor in the world. From his idiot star-marking performance in I, Tonya, to his award-winning performance in RICHARD JEWELL, he has been on a winning streak. Even his small cameos in TV shows like THE AFTERPARTY and COBRA KAI are compelling.
Coming out of the PWH rabbit hole, BLACK BIRD is easily one of the best of the year. It earns these honors not by revolutionizing the serial killer genre but instead by being able to captivate audiences for all six episodes. In 2022, TV shows tend to have filler. That’s not the case for BLACK BIRD. It’s perfectly paced with insights into how serial killers think while also keeping you on the edge of your seat.
I could compare it to the other recent serial killer series, MIND HUNTER. However, that show was much more talk, with not as much suspense. In contrast, BLACK BIRD hikes this up with the prison tale from the inside.
At the heart of BLACK BIRD are characters that want “to be seen.” Yet, it’s incredibly sad to realize what that means for humans that have committed a crime. The true story behind BLACK BIRD is insane. I’m glad I learned James Keane’s (Taron Egerton) story.
When you watch TV, most people tend to choose lighthearted content. With the news today, I don’t blame them. However, instead of ordering the standard “vodka soda and lime,” be a “rebel” and pick the “lemon” to go with your vodka. I promise you won’t be disappointed with your selection.
It’s available on Apple TV+.
