A High-Budget Misstep: When ‘Smoke’ Fails to Ignite on Apple TV+
What happens when an acclaimed writer and a charismatic star reunite on a new project, yet the result feels like a curious blend of prestige budget and pulpy execution? This is the perplexing reality of Apple TV+’s new nine-episode mini-series, *Smoke*. Helmed by Dennis Lehane, known for his masterful narratives like *Gone Baby Gone* and *Mystic River*, and starring the talented Taron Egerton, this thriller attempts to delve into the dark world of arson, but often feels like a missed opportunity draped in a lavish production.
Mismatched Investigators and a Fiery Premise
The series introduces us to an unlikely pair tasked with tracking down elusive arsonists. Taron Egerton plays Gudsen, an enigmatic expert whose life seems inextricably linked to fire itself – he practically breathes it. His counterpart is Calderon, portrayed by Jurnee Smollett, a detective burdened by a harrowing past. In a narrative turn that strains credulity, it’s revealed that Calderon’s own mother once attempted to burn down their home when she was just a child. This setup, intended to add psychological depth, unfortunately veers into territory so melodramatic that it recalls the most contrived moments from a classic Mahesh Bhatt thriller, despite Apple’s typically polished aesthetic.
The Second Episode’s Shocking Betrayal
Just as you’re settling into the investigative rhythm, the second episode of *Smoke* unleashes a plot twist so jarring and fundamentally deceptive that it leaves you questioning everything that came before. It’s not the kind of ingenious reveal that recontextualizes the narrative; rather, it feels like a writerly sleight of hand that betrays the unspoken contract between storyteller and audience. When a series dedicates significant screen time to a protagonist’s solitary moments, it implicitly builds trust, suggesting their perspective is reliable. Here, that trust is shattered, leaving viewers feeling profoundly cheated by Lehane’s departure from the narrative integrity expected of his caliber.
A Tonal Identity Crisis and Stumbling Pace
Beyond its controversial twist, *Smoke* grapples with a significant identity crisis. It ambles along at a slovenly pace, often feeling unsure whether it wants to be a serious, brooding crime drama or a self-aware, almost satirical take on the genre. This ambiguity prevents it from achieving either aim, leaving it in a frustrating middle ground. Despite its glossy Apple production values, the show frequently descends into what feels like the B-movie buffoonery reminiscent of early 2000s network television, rather than the high-stakes, nuanced thrillers we’ve come to expect from premium streaming.
Actors Navigating a Confusing Script
Amidst the narrative’s meandering path, the cast, including Taron Egerton and Jurnee Smollett, strive to imbue their characters with depth and a believable dynamic. Egerton’s Gudsen is particularly captivating; he approaches fire with an almost poetic reverence, even working on a book about his experiences. His private narrations, a quirky detail, set up an intriguing subversion of traditional gender roles alongside Smollett’s tough-as-nails Calderon – a subversion unfortunately undercut by the later twist. Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine also joins the ensemble as Freddy, a mysterious line cook who seemingly exists to propel new subplots, yet often feels like a contrivance designed to keep a flagging narrative alive.
Unexplored Depths and Squandered Potential
The series attempts to ponder profound questions, such as the genesis of malevolence: are “monsters” born or forged by their environment? Are they introverted observers or extroverted catalysts? Regrettably, *Smoke* offers no truly insightful answers. The intriguing philosophical underpinnings are quickly overshadowed by increasingly ridiculous plot developments, stranding the talented actors in a project that seems to have withheld vital parts of its own script from them. The dissonance in the show’s tone permeates their performances, highlighting the challenges of delivering compelling portrayals within a fundamentally inconsistent story.
Apple’s Shifting Content Strategy
The release of *Smoke* raises questions about Apple TV+’s evolving content strategy. While the platform once seemed to be on an unparalleled streak, delivering one “all-timer” after another – recall the critical acclaim for shows like *Black Bird* in 2022, which truly felt like a prestige offering akin to AMC or HBO’s golden eras – *Smoke* feels like a step backward. As Apple seemingly embraces a “Netflix model” of broader content output, it inevitably opens itself up to the same kind of critical scrutiny that its streaming rivals have long faced. While the ambition is commendable, *Smoke* serves as a stark reminder that a high budget alone cannot guarantee a compelling narrative or a truly satisfying viewing experience.
