At first glance, the series presents itself as a typical period mystery, complete with cobblestone streets, gas lamps, and a sense of intrigue rooted in the corseted fashion of the era. However, those who delve deeper will uncover a richly layered narrative that explores the origins of criminal psychology and the early advocacy for women’s rights. Starring Dakota Fanning, Daniel Brühl, and Luke Evans, this two-season production from TNT is set against the atmospheric backdrop of 1890s New York City, offering viewers a compelling blend of history and thriller.
Adapted from Caleb Carr’s acclaimed 1994 novel, the plot follows Dr. Laszlo Kreizler, a criminal psychologist, who is tasked by Police Commissioner Theodore Roosevelt to investigate a series of brutal murders targeting street children. The series paints a haunting portrait of the stark divide in Manhattan during 1896, where opulence and squalor exist mere blocks apart. Kreizler teams up with illustrator John Moore and Sara Howard, Roosevelt’s ambitious secretary and the first woman on the NYPD payroll. Utilizing the early tools of forensic science, such as fingerprinting and crime scene analysis, the trio embarks on a quest to catch a killer whose actions are ignored by the city’s elite.
A standout feature of the series is its production design, shot in Budapest to faithfully depict the look and feel of Gilded Age New York. The visual richness rivals iconic shows like Peaky Blinders and Boardwalk Empire, immersing viewers in a world drenched in both grandeur and grime.
Beyond the surface, the narrative grappled with profound themes, with the murders serving as a lens through which to explore trauma and morality. Brühl’s portrayal of Kreizler presents a character torn between fascination and revulsion for human depravity, prompting both the character and the audience to confront uncomfortable truths. Evans breathes life into Moore, a journalist undergoing a transformation as his initial idealism is reignited. Fanning’s portrayal of Sara Howard stands out as the heart of the series, embodying determination in a male-dominated environment, with her evolution becoming central to the story’s conflict.
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In the second season, titled The Alienist: Angel of Darkness, Sara takes the lead in her own investigation when a diplomat’s infant daughter is abducted. As they delve back into the city’s underbelly, the narrative intensifies, revealing themes of class tension and corruption while enhancing the complexity of the characters. Although Season 1 is characterized by its chilling mystery and gothic ambiance, the sequel turns inward, focusing on personal evolution rather than bloodshed.
Fanning, in particular, delivers a performance that transforms her character from a figure of restraint to a bold and fearless investigator. The series’ supporting cast remains strong, with familiar faces and new additions bringing further depth to the storyline.
The Alienist may not redefine the crime drama genre, but its execution is marked by a meticulous attention to detail. Critics have noted its deliberate pacing, which, while sometimes viewed as languid, is integral to its atmospheric storytelling. Instead of a rapid succession of plot twists, it offers a gradual exploration of the psychological landscape of the 19th century.
Now streaming for free on Spectrum, the series is finally gaining the recognition it deserves. With its captivating production, powerful performances, and thoughtful examination of the origins of modern criminal investigation, The Alienist is a hidden gem that warrants a rewatch. Although a third season hasn’t been confirmed, the existing material and a dedicated fan base leave room for future exploration of its characters. For now, both The Alienist and its sequel stand as elegantly crafted narratives worth experiencing in their entirety.
