When Sicario hit theaters in 2015, it set a new bar for gritty, morally complex thrillers about the war on drugs. Denis Villeneuve's direction and Taylor Sheridan's script created a tense, unforgettable experience. But if you think that's the peak of the genre, you haven't seen Echo 3 on Apple TV+. This 10-part series, which debuted in late 2022, takes the same raw intensity and cranks it up, delivering a military thriller that's even more unpredictable and emotionally devastating.
Echo 3 follows scientist Amber Chesborough (Jessica Ann Collins), who is kidnapped by militants while researching psychedelics in Colombia. Her brother, Delta Force operator Alex "Bambi" Chesborough (Luke Evans), and her husband, Eric "Prince" Haas (Michiel Huisman), are sent to rescue her. The personal stakes—brother and husband, both trained killers—add a layer of tension that most action series only dream of. And unlike many shows that promise unpredictability, Echo 3 actually delivers, with a narrative that spirals out of control in ways you won't see coming.
Why 'Echo 3' Outshines 'Sicario'
While Sicario is a masterclass in tension, Echo 3 goes deeper into the moral quagmire of modern warfare. The series doesn't just show the action—it shows the consequences. Bambi and Prince initially think they can negotiate Amber's release, but when her captors learn about her research, the mission becomes far more complicated. By the fourth episode, "Upriver," the story takes a sharp turn, revealing how political maneuvering and being outnumbered can sabotage even the best-laid plans. It's a rare thriller that actually earns its "unpredictable" label.
The relationships between the characters are another area where Echo 3 excels. Bambi and Prince are already on shaky ground after a previous mission gone wrong, and their constant clashes threaten the rescue. Meanwhile, Amber discovers that her research is being used for horrific purposes, forcing her to confront the unintended consequences of her work. While Sicario showed that no one is truly innocent, Echo 3 takes it further by exploring how blood ties and military bonds can both help and hinder a mission.
From Oscar-Winning Writer to TV Thriller
Echo 3 was created by Mark Boal, the Oscar-winning writer of The Hurt Locker and Zero Dark Thirty. Boal's background as a journalist who embedded with bomb squads in Iraq gives the series a realism that's rare in the genre. He described his approach as "naturalistic," and it shows in every frame. The series is based on the Israeli show When Heroes Fly, but Boal makes it his own, crafting a story that feels both intimate and epic.
If you're a fan of Taylor Sheridan's Lioness or other military thrillers, Echo 3 is a must-watch. It's a hidden gem that deserves a spot on your watchlist, especially if you're looking for something that doesn't pull punches. And if you're into psychological depth, check out our list of 21st Century's Best Psychological Thriller Books for more mind-bending stories.
A Shocking Ending That Fits Perfectly
Echo 3 ends on a note that's as unexpected as the rest of the series. It was never renewed for a second season, but in a way, that's fitting. The finale leaves things unresolved, mirroring the chaos of the real world. Nothing turns out as the characters—or the audience—expects. If you're waiting for Reacher to return or just want something new to binge, Echo 3 is a perfect choice. For more overlooked thrillers, don't miss our roundup of Hidden Gems: 10 Thrillers from the Past 20 Years You Probably Missed.
In a landscape crowded with action series, Echo 3 stands out for its realism, emotional weight, and willingness to let things go wrong. It's a series that respects its audience enough to show the messy, often tragic reality of modern warfare. And if you're a fan of Sicario, you owe it to yourself to see how this Apple TV+ gem raises the bar.
