If you're craving a crime drama that grips you from the first scene and doesn't let go until the credits roll, Apple TV+'s Smoke is your weekend savior. With only nine episodes, this psychological thriller is tailor-made for a binge-watch, delivering a twist that will leave you breathless.
What Is 'Smoke' About?
Created by Dennis Lehane—the mastermind behind Mystic River, Shutter Island, and Gone Baby Gone—Smoke draws inspiration from the true-crime podcast Firebug, which chronicled a real arsonist who terrorized a town for over three decades. The series follows Dave Gudsen (Taron Egerton), a former firefighter turned arson investigator, as he probes a series of suspicious fires in his jurisdiction. Haunted by his own traumatic past—he survived a horrific blaze that ended his firefighting career—Dave struggles to crack the case, especially when he suspects multiple arsonists are at work, each using distinct methods and devices. The fires grow increasingly deadly, prompting his superiors to bring in Detective Michelle Calderone (Jurnee Smollett), a guarded investigator with her own fire-related trauma. Despite initial reluctance, the two form an uneasy partnership to unravel the mystery.
A Twisty Psychological Thriller
Smoke could have been a straightforward procedural, but a major twist early on flips the narrative on its head. Just when you think you've figured it out, the story veers into unpredictable territory, keeping you guessing until the final frame. The series is packed with non-stop action, morally ambiguous characters, and choices that challenge your assumptions. The cinematography is stunning, creating an eerie, haunting atmosphere that makes you feel the heat of every blaze. Special effects are top-notch, immersing you in the inferno alongside the characters.
The cast is phenomenal. Taron Egerton showcases his range, portraying Dave's complex emotions with authenticity. Jurnee Smollett is equally compelling as the fierce yet broken Michelle. Supporting players like Rafe Spall, Greg Kinnear, John Leguizamo, and Anna Chlumsky add depth, but Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine steals the show as Freddy Fasano, a fast-food worker turned prime suspect. His performance builds from quiet intensity to a monstrous display of trauma's insidious effects.
Once you start Smoke, you won't want to stop. The series hasn't been renewed or canceled yet, and Lehane has hinted at plans for three seasons. But even as a standalone, these nine episodes offer a fast-paced, thrilling ride that's perfect for a weekend binge. If you're looking for more binge-worthy options, check out our list of Best Shows to Binge on Prime Video This Week or explore why Apple TV+'s 'Margo's Got Money Troubles' Is Outshining Its Sci-Fi Giants. For fans of British detective thrillers, 'Criminal Record' Season 2 is dominating streaming this month.
Smoke is a must-watch for crime drama enthusiasts. Its twisted storytelling and gripping performances ensure you won't be disappointed—though you might develop a new fear of fire.
