New Apple TV+ Series "Smoke" Explores Arson and Criminal Psychology

Premise and Background

Apple TV+ has launched a new true crime series titled “Smoke,” created by acclaimed crime writer Dennis Lehane and actor Taron Egerton, known for their previous collaboration, “Black Bird.” While “Black Bird” received critical acclaim and multiple Emmy nominations, “Smoke” takes a different direction, delving into the psychology of arson. The nine-episode series stars Egerton as Dave Gudsen, an arson investigator, alongside Jurnee Smollett as police detective Michelle Calderon.

Setting and Characters

Set in the fictional city of Umberland, portrayed by Vancouver, “Smoke” introduces viewers to a world rife with intrigue and danger. Egerton’s character, a former firefighter and aspiring novelist, is coupled with Smollett’s focused detective, who harbors her own trauma. Together, they embark on the challenging task of apprehending a duo of arsonists terrorizing the Pacific Northwest.

As the story unfolds, viewers are presented with Freddy (Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine), one of the arsonists whose actions stem from mental health issues. The show captures Freddy’s internal struggles as he grapples with his compulsion to set fires.

Plot Developments and Reveals

The series takes a compelling turn in its second episode, transforming into a gripping cat-and-mouse thriller. An unexpected twist reveals Dave’s disturbing duality as both an investigator and a perpetrator of arson, adding depth to his character. This development not only enhances the tension but also showcases Egerton’s range as an actor, blending charm with menace.

Critical Reception

Initial reviews of “Smoke” praise its eerie atmosphere and sharply etched characters. The series is noted for its humor, balancing the grim subject matter with moments of levity, especially through the interactions between Calderon and her colleagues. Radiohead’s Thom Yorke contributes to the show’s distinct tone with a specially crafted theme song.

Despite its strong start, some critics argue that the series loses focus towards the later episodes, hinting at potential absurdities that could detract from its more grounded elements.

Conclusion and Future Episodes

With two episodes currently available for streaming and new episodes releasing weekly on Fridays, “Smoke” is positioned as a noteworthy addition to Apple TV+’s growing catalog of high-quality series. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are left anticipating how the psychological complexities of its characters will evolve within the framework of crime and morality.

For further updates on "Smoke," stay tuned for weekly episode summaries and critical evaluations as the series progresses.

Marcus Reed

Focuses on crime, public safety, and regional events.

Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.