Entertainment Blog #306 | Cross [2024 -] : From Movie Series to TV Series...

I got to know the "Alex Cross" character from its movie series. But I didn't watch it as its reviews were bad. Then I recently got to know that a web series is in progress based on the main character. Anad watching it, i was able to understand why the movie series wasn't that successful.

The new series Cross, based on James Patterson's iconic character Alex Cross, dives into the complexities of grief, masculinity, and justice in a contemporary setting. The story revolves around Alex, a detective and forensic psychologist grappling with the aftermath of his wife's murder. Alex's professional duties lead him into a shivery investigation that twists with his personal life, mirroring many's struggles to balance work and emotional well-being. This story highlights with audiences who may have experienced loss or the pressures of societal expectations, making it both a thrilling and relatable watch.

Cross is a crime thriller series that was released on Prime Video on November 14, 2024. It was directed by Ben Watkins and features Aldis Hodge in the main role alongside Isaiah Mustafa as his partner John Sampson. The cast also includes notable performances from Juanita Jennings as Nana Mama and Ryan Eggold as Ed Ramsey. The show consists of eight episodes that aim to capture the essence of Patterson's novels while introducing original storylines that expand the universe of Alex Cross.

The plot kicks off with Alex Cross, haunted by his wife Maria's tragic death, actually not a death, it's a killing. it made him to apply for a leave of absence from his job. However, he is soon called back to work when the body of local activist Emir Goodspeed is found, seemingly the latest victim of a serial killer. As Cross and Sampson dig deeper into the case, they uncover a web of deceptions that not only challenges their professional skills but also puts their lives at risk. The tension escalates as they race against time to prevent further murders while dealing with Cross's own stalker at home, adding layers to an already gripping narrative.

As the investigation unfolds, viewers are introduced to a cast of mysterious characters that enrich the storyline. Each episode reveals more about Cross's psyche and his struggle to cope with his past while trying to protect his family. The dynamic between Cross and Sampson is particularly compelling; their companionship offers moments of silliness amidst the dark themes explored in the series. This interaction not only provides humor but also deepens the emotional stakes as Cross confronts his vulnerabilities.

But what I noted from the first series is that the plot is lacking the depth. The plot is not enough for 8 episodes. And with the try to expand the actions to more episodes, it kind of got boring in 6, 7 episodes. but other than that, the story is solid and hopefully there will be a second season.

What sets Cross apart from other crime dramas is its thoughtful approach to storytelling. While many shows in this genre focus heavily on action and plot twists, Cross emphasizes character development and emotional depth. The series explores themes of maleness and mental health in a way that feels timely and relevant, encouraging viewers to reflect on the implications of trauma and loss in their own lives.

Critical reception has been mixed, yet generally positive. On IMDb, Cross holds a rating of 7.5/10, while Rotten Tomatoes reflects a 75% approval rating from critics who praise Hodge's performance but note some clichéd elements in the storytelling. Metacritic gives it a score of 65, indicating generally favorable reviews but highlighting areas where it could improve. Google users have rated it at 80%, suggesting a solid audience appreciation for the series.

With a budget that is speculated to be substantial given its production quality and star power, Cross targets high viewership numbers. Early reports indicate that it has garnered significant attention upon release, contributing to Amazon's growing catalog of successful crime dramas. In conclusion, while Cross may tread familiar ground within its genre, it offers enough character-driven storytelling and emotional resonance to engage viewers. As it stands poised for a second season, there is hope that future installments will refine its pacing and deepen its character arcs even further.