Apple TV+'s latest series does the worst thing for a new show but I can't help recommend it
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*Warning - this article contains minor spoilers for the opening scene in Smoke, episode one*
Apple TV+'s latest series does the worst thing a new show could possibly do, in my opinion, but I still can't help but recommend it.
The first two episodes of Smoke are now available. It is the latest prestigious and original television drama series from the company.
It comes after the likes of Your Friends & Neighbors, The Studio, Stick, Dope Thief, Murderbot and Prime Target all releasing earlier this year. That's a lot of new shows demanding your attention.
As a film and TV writer and critic, I'm able to see shows before they're released. So, let it be known that as of writing, I have so far watched the first five episodes of the nine-part season. Three of those will not be available to subscribers until July. This is crucial, as had I only watched the premiere streaming now, I would most likely tell you not to bother at all with Smoke.
(Image: Apple)
An early review of Smoke claimed it is "nine great hours of television." That's the thing. The reviewer had clearly watched all nine hours, as had they only watched the first two, it would be described quite differently.
Be warned, as I'm about to mention some aspects of what happens in Smoke's opening moments. However, it could lead you to realising you can skip the first 10 minutes or so.
The series follows troubled detective, Michelle Calderone, played by Jurnee Smollett, who is made to team up with arson investigator, Dave Gudsen, played by Taron Egerton, as they track down two serial arsonists.
Their investigation turns into a "twisted game of secrets and suspicions" as they try to track down those responsible for the alarming crimes. The series is inspired by true events and the acclaimed Firebug podcast. Those familiar with that podcast will already know where the biggest plot point leads.
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Now, the worst way a new series which is attempting to establish its characters, setting, premise and convince viewers the premise is viable is one of a few things. At least it is for me personally. These include a voiceover. There really needs to be a good reason for this tactic. It cannot be just describing what should be shown or utilising flowery language about the show's theme.
There's also intermittent flashbacks. You want to show a past or future event before telling the audience we are actually days later or before said event? Fine. But don't keep flashing between past and present as if you couldn't decide where the story should start.
Smoke manages to do every one of these things. Taron Egerton's character begins trapped in a burning building, his voiceover pointlessly droning about fires then - he wakes up! When our other lead character is introduced, we get more intermittent flashbacks for her.
However, despite all those tropes, which is surprising they are even present considering the episode is penned by an experienced writer in Dennis Lehane, I recommend most viewers to push on.
We come to one of the other worst things that a review could tell a potential audience. You're going to have to make it through the first two episodes before knowing if this show is for you.
By the final scene of the second episode and its huge plot twist, I've gone from wanting to give up, to needing to know what's next.
(Image: Apple)
From episode three, Egerton's arson investigator is more than just a terrible stepfather, there's a side the show is delicately peeling away to reveal. Detective Calderone is now interesting when actually investigating the story's central crime rather than reflecting on an affair, and I need to know just what is going on with Ntare Mwine's Freddy Fasano.
The show's weekly release schedule could be an issue here, as perhaps it is better as a binge watch.
Smoke is not the best show of the year. It's not even Apple's best new series of 2025 (The Studio, if you were wondering) but I still find myself attracted to its flames, needing to know how it all ends and recommending it to anyone who is after a twisty crime drama.
Smoke is streaming on Apple TV+.
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