Claire Danes, Matthew Rhys Do ‘The Jinx’
“The Beast in Me” Review: A Psychological Thriller on Netflix
In the world of psychological thrillers, Netflix has delivered another gripping series with “The Beast in Me.” Starring Matthew Rhys as Nile Jarvis, a reclusive New York real estate heir suspected of murder, the show takes inspiration from real-life events similar to those portrayed in the acclaimed docuseries “The Jinx.” Created by novelist Gabe Rotter and showrun by Howard Gordon, the series delves into the complex dynamics between Nile and his interviewer, Agatha “Aggie” Wiggs, played by the talented Claire Danes.
Aggie, an award-winning author grappling with personal tragedy, finds herself drawn into Nile’s dark world when he moves in next door and offers her a compelling new subject for her writing. As the two engage in a battle of wits and manipulation, the true center of the show emerges as Aggie, with Nile serving as a catalyst for her personal growth and development.
While the series is absorbing and expertly paced, it leans heavily on Aggie’s perspective, leaving Nile’s character somewhat hazy and undefined. This choice of focus, while shedding light on the less explored side of the story, also detracts from the potential dynamic between Danes and Rhys, reminiscent of iconic duos in the genre.
Despite lacking a direct source material, “The Beast in Me” expertly navigates the realm of true crime adjacent narratives, drawing parallels to real-life cases like that of Robert Durst. Rhys delivers a chilling performance as Nile, but falls short of the eccentricity that made Durst so compelling and believable as a killer. Instead, the show focuses on the intricate plot surrounding Aggie and Nile’s interactions, driving the narrative forward with suspense and intrigue.
As Aggie becomes embroiled in Nile’s world, a web of deceit and mystery unfolds, leading to a thrilling cat-and-mouse game between the characters. With a stellar supporting cast including Natalie Morales and Jonathan Banks, the series builds tension and suspense, culminating in a satisfying binge-worthy experience.
Danes shines in her role, bringing depth and emotion to Aggie’s character, while Rhys exudes a sinister charm as Nile. The show’s production design adds to the atmospheric setting, creating a visually captivating backdrop for the unfolding drama.
In conclusion, “The Beast in Me” is a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers, offering a compelling narrative filled with twists and turns. While it may not reach the heights of true crime classics, the series excels in building tension and delivering a captivating story. All episodes are now streaming on Netflix, ready to immerse viewers in a world of intrigue and suspense.
