ERIC was a limited series that highlighted the pain, grief, and anguish of a child gone missing either by choice or circumstances. The writers made sure to show what ordinary people feel, think, and do under these conditions. It was a story that gave power to a tenacious, secretive detective and his outlook on life.
Benedict Cumberbatch’s portrayal of Vincent as the alcoholic puppeteer was stunning. His emotional journey was difficult to watch at times due to Benedict’s honest and raw presentation. It was as if viewers could almost smell his body stench and sweat in every frame. His angst became ours as we watched him deteriorate within the boundaries of mental health. Bravo for a fine performance. He is an actor who is not afraid to go “there.”
Kudos to Cassie (Gabby Hoffman) Lennie (Dan Fogler) and Michael (McKinley Belcher III) for their stellar performances as well. They were amazing with their gritty authenticity. Their darkness juxtaposed against the light and warmth of the puppets seemed surreal at the Good Day Sunshine studio. “Be good, be brave, be kind, be different” are words we all should live by every day.
ERIC will stir the audience’s souls with the depth of the homeless problem. It brings forefront the simplicity of the phrase…do better. It is streaming on Netflix.