Image credit – Netflix
Author’s Score
10/20
The storyline is good, but the casting needs to be worked on
When it was released a month ago, the trailer looked promising, and I thought it had the potential to become a great series. The production values were impressive, and it had a cinematic appeal that suggested it could become the next Power. With the series created by one of the executive producers behind Power, there was every reason to believe it would deliver a compelling, high-quality show.
The first episode was explosive. From the outset, it was engaging, action-packed and full of energy. The robberies and meticulously planned operations were exciting to watch. However, as the storylines developed further, the weaknesses began to emerge, particularly in the acting. The large-scale production and Netflix’s financial backing clearly aimed to put this series on the map, while the reputation of the producers made it even more appealing to viewers.
As the series progresses, many of its elements become repetitive and predictable. Characters often repeat the same behaviours and deliver similar lines, which gradually becomes frustrating. What initially feels fresh and exciting soon starts to lose momentum.
The storyline becomes increasingly monotonous, with scenes often repeating the same patterns and sequences. The character Isaiah Stiles feels particularly over the top, and his performance lacks the confidence needed to command the screen. At times, it feels as though he is trying too hard, which can make certain scenes uncomfortable to watch. The rest of the cast generally performs their roles naturally and convincingly, but Isaiah’s significant presence in the series makes his mediocre performance difficult to ignore.
The producers chose to end the series on a cliffhanger, which was probably the wrong decision. However, it raises the question of where the story can realistically go from here, particularly with the robbers in police custody and Coltrane Wilder on the run.
It is evident that Courtney Kemp was attempting to create a Netflix version of Power. The concept is strong, and some of the storylines have potential, but the series needs to address the issues surrounding Isaiah Stiles’ character if it hopes to succeed in the long term.
The show still has the potential to become a strong series, particularly if Coltrane is positioned as the central character. His journey and personality share similarities with Ghost from Power, making him a far more compelling focal point. Perhaps a soft reboot is needed for the second season, allowing the story to develop further. If those improvements fail to materialise, however, the series may struggle to justify its continuation.
