This is my review of the Long Bright River TV Series. I have binge-watched this on C4 catch up, and it’s brilliant. The book was highly praised for its narrative structure and brevity of chapters, and the TV adaptation follows that style perfectly. I’d particularly note how well the plot twists are executed. The show is elevated by standout performances from all the leads. Special note should go to Callum Vinson who brilliantly plays an 8-year-old (and must be around that age himself) in what is a complex role. Amanda Seyfried’s central character is worlds away from her role in Mamma Mia! The performance of Ashleigh Cummings, playing a drug addict and prostitute with remarkable conviction, is equally impressive.
The plot twists caught me off guard several times, and I felt a sense of foreboding as I neared the end of episode 8. While American dramas tackling social issues can sometimes fall into a self-righteous trap, this one stays grounded and feels authentic. It’s a great drama with a meaningful message that’s well delivered—highly recommended.
Synopsis; Long Bright River TV series
Set in the opioid-ravaged neighborhood of Kensington, Philadelphia, Long Bright River follows patrol officer Mickey Fitzpatrick as she investigates a string of murders targeting vulnerable women. As the case unfolds, Mickey’s personal life becomes entangled with her professional duties, particularly concerning her missing sister, Kacey. The series delves into themes of addiction, family bonds, and the complexities of law enforcement within a struggling community.
Original Channel and Premiere Date
- U.S. Premiere: Peacock, March 13, 2025
- UK Broadcast: Channel 4, commencing May 18, 2025
Key Creatives
- Creators: Liz Moore, Nikki Toscano
- Directors: Hagar Ben-Asher, Gwyneth Horder-Payton, Mona Fastvold, Nikki Toscano, Jessica Yu, Meera Menon
- Writers: Liz Moore, Nikki Toscano, Alexandra McNally, Tricia V. Johnson, Russell Rothberg, Alye Capone
- Production Companies: Original Film, Pascal Pictures, Black Mass Productions, Universal Content Productions, Sony Pictures Television
Cast
- Amanda Seyfried (Mickey Fitzpatrick): Known for The Dropout, Mank, Mean Girls
- Nicholas Pinnock (Truman Dawes): Known for For Life, Marcella, Top Boy
- Ashleigh Cummings (Kacey Fitzpatrick): Known for NOS4A2, The Goldfinch, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries
- Callum Vinson (Thomas Fitzpatrick): Emerging talent with limited prior credits
- John Doman (Gee): Known for The Wire, Borgia, Gotham
Next Episode Info
- UK Broadcast Schedule: Channel 4 airs two episodes weekly on Sundays at 10 PM, starting May 18, 2025.
- U.S. Availability: All eight episodes are available for streaming on Peacock as of March 13, 2025.
