As an evaluator, I’ve grown accustomed to encountering a familiar set of dissenters who vehemently challenge my viewpoints. These include, but are not confined to:
- If it doesn’t suit your taste, opt for an alternative (though, I am a proficient TV critic).
- You’re simply a detractor! (I’m lenient with the terminology).
- You’re just incapable of understanding it. (Perhaps!)
- Your judgment is prejudiced. (Mhhmm)
- You must lead a sheltered life. Everyone is praising this show/movie/game! (Critique isn’t a popularity contest, thank goodness!)
No doubt, I anticipate encountering some of these responses after crafting this assessment of the initial episode of “True Detective: Night Country,” a premiere that left me as indifferent as the frigid Alaskan terrain where the narrative unfolds. It could very well be the last accusation. After all, a multitude of critics is showering accolades upon this show. Nevertheless, appeals to popularity have never swayed my judgment.
As of now, I’ve only viewed the premiere, so the trajectory of the remaining six-part season remains uncertain. My perspective might evolve in the ensuing weeks, but for the present moment, I find myself underwhelmed.
Despite the laudatory reviews—”Night Country isn’t a mere resurgence,” exclaims Slate. “It surpasses.” “Night Country is so exceptional, it might outshine Season 1,” raves USA Today—my expectations soared. Season 1 of True Detective holds a special place in my heart as one of the finest television seasons. I was captivated instantly—not after the first episode but within the initial ten minutes.
Regrettably, I don’t experience the same electrifying enthusiasm for Night Country, which already feels ponderous after just one episode. While a deliberate pacing can be forgiven, the premiere appears chaotic, and its characters lack depth and intrigue.
The cast, spearheaded by Jodie Foster portraying the stern Ennis, Alaska police detective Liz Danvers, delivers commendable performances. Danvers, though ornery, exhibits intelligence and competence. It’s a delight to witness Foster reprising a law enforcement role. (If nothing else, I now realize it’s been too long since I’ve seen The Silence Of The Lambs).
Conversely, the narrative takes too long to pique interest—considering it’s a shorter season than usual, much of the six-episode limit feels squandered. Danvers and detective Evangeline Navarro (Kali Reis) share a history with lingering animosity over a cold case involving a deceased indigenous woman. Yet, it’s evident they will collaborate to unravel this new—and undoubtedly interconnected—mystery surrounding a group of missing scientists, all of whom are men.