It's been years since HBO's Big Little Lies wrapped its second season, yet its haunting blend of suburban secrets and psychological tension still lingers. Similarly, Sharp Objects left an indelible mark with its brooding atmosphere and complex female protagonist. If you've been craving another series that captures that same addictive unease, look no further than Apple TV's Disclaimer—a seven-episode gem that flew under the radar when it premiered in 2024 but deserves a spot on your binge list.
What Is Disclaimer About?
At the heart of Disclaimer is Catherine Ravenscroft (Cate Blanchett), a celebrated journalist whose life appears picture-perfect: a thriving career, a devoted husband (Sacha Baron Cohen), and a quiet son (Kodi Smit-McPhee). But beneath the surface, Catherine harbors secrets that threaten to unravel everything. When a mysterious novel arrives on her doorstep, it seems to recount a past affair with a younger man named Jonathan Brigstocke (Louis Partridge). The book, penned by Jonathan's father Stephen (Kevin Kline), is a calculated act of revenge—Stephen blames Catherine for his family's downfall. What follows is a tense, twisting journey that forces viewers to question every character's version of the truth.
A Masterclass in Suspense and Performance
Directed by the visionary Alfonso Cuarón, Disclaimer wastes no time in building a suspenseful, emotionally charged narrative. The story unfolds through multiple perspectives, making it clear that no one is entirely reliable. Flashbacks to Catherine's past add layers of complexity, ensuring you'll be guessing until the final frame. This narrative structure is reminiscent of both Big Little Lies and Sharp Objects, where trust is a luxury no one can afford.
The cast is nothing short of extraordinary. Blanchett delivers a nuanced performance as a woman desperately trying to control her crumbling life. Kevin Kline is a formidable adversary, his portrayal of Stephen growing more desperate and unsettling with each episode. Both Kline and Baron Cohen, known primarily for comedy, prove their dramatic chops here, sinking into roles that are as dark as they are compelling. The supporting cast shines too: Lesley Manville is heartbreaking as Stephen's grief-stricken wife, Leila George captivates as a younger Catherine, and Smit-McPhee brings a quiet intensity to a son caught in the crossfire. Each actor weaves a tapestry of betrayal and lies that makes it impossible to look away.
Visually, the series is stunning, with cinematography that captures both the opulence and the decay of its characters' worlds. The score, composed by Finneas O'Connell, adds an eerie, beautiful layer that heightens the tension.
Why You Should Watch Disclaimer Now
Despite its pedigree, Disclaimer only earned two Emmy nominations—for cinematography and Blanchett's performance—which feels like a snub for such a richly crafted show. But that's exactly why it's a perfect discovery for fans of psychological thrillers. If you're still waiting for a third season of Big Little Lies, this is the ideal palate cleanser. And if you're in the mood for more gripping mysteries, check out this Peacock thriller you'll finish in one weekend or our ranking of the most nerve-shredding thrillers since 2020. For those who appreciate a slow-burn mystery with a stellar cast, Disclaimer is a must-watch.
