Jon Bernthal has been having a monumental year, with starring roles in blockbusters like The Odyssey and Spider-Man: Brand New Day, but one of his most powerful performances remains in a smaller, grittier project that's now available to stream. We Own This City, a six-part HBO miniseries, is officially on HBO Max, and it's the perfect binge for anyone who craves hard-hitting crime drama.
Premiering in 2022, We Own This City is often hailed as a spiritual successor to The Wire, another iconic Baltimore-set series. Created by David Simon and George Pelecanos, the show dives deep into the rise and fall of the Baltimore Police Department's Gun Trace Task Force, exposing a web of corruption that included robbery, planted evidence, and overtime fraud. It's a story that feels ripped from headlines, and it's told with the kind of unflinching realism that Simon and Pelecanos are known for.
Bernthal leads the cast as Sergeant Wayne Jenkins, a charismatic but deeply flawed figure whose crew's actions unravel into one of the most sprawling police scandals in American history. His performance is raw, intense, and utterly compelling, reminding viewers why he's one of the most versatile actors working today. The supporting cast, including Wunmi Mosaku, Jamie Hector, David Corenswet, and Josh Charles, delivers equally strong work, making every episode a tense, character-driven experience.
While We Own This City shares DNA with The Wire, it also appeals to fans of investigative journalism stories like Spotlight. The series doesn't just show the crimes; it examines how systemic corruption can fester when institutions fail to hold their own accountable. It's a sobering look at a real-life scandal, but it's also a gripping piece of television that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Critics have praised the show, with Rotten Tomatoes scores of 93% from critics and 79% from audiences. The series has been lauded for its writing, direction, and Bernthal's standout performance. If you're looking for a show that's both entertaining and thought-provoking, We Own This City is a top pick.
For those who enjoy crime dramas that dig into the darker side of law enforcement, this miniseries is a must-watch. It joins a long list of great HBO miniseries that have defined the genre. And if you're in the mood for more addictive crime shows, check out our list of crime shows you can't stop binge-watching.
Bernthal's career has been on a hot streak, but We Own This City remains a highlight, showcasing his ability to carry a complex, morally ambiguous character. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his work, this series is a testament to his range. So, clear your weekend and get ready to dive into one of the most compelling crime stories on streaming.
All six episodes of We Own This City are now streaming exclusively on HBO Max. Don't miss this gripping tale of corruption and its consequences.
