The Alienist -

Synopsis:

The Alienist delves deep into the grimy underbelly of New York City during the Gilded Age, focusing on the hunt for a heinous serial killer preying on boy prostitutes. Amidst the backdrop of a city experiencing rapid change, Dr. Laszlo Kreizler, an “alienist” (a precursor to modern-day psychologists), assembles a group of like-minded individuals to embark on a pioneering journey through the realm of forensic investigation, using emerging psychological theories and techniques to track down the killer.

Main Characters:

Dr. Laszlo Kreizler (played by Daniel Brühl): A brilliant but unconventional psychologist (known as an “alienist” in the late 19th century) who leads the investigation into the gruesome murders.
John Schuyler Moore (played by Luke Evans): A society illustrator and Kreizler’s close friend, whose knowledge of New York’s elite proves invaluable to the investigation.
Sara Howard (played by Dakota Fanning): The ambitious secretary to then-police commissioner Theodore Roosevelt and the first woman employed by the NYPD. She becomes a vital part of the investigative team, bringing her fierce determination and keen insights.

Themes:

At its core, “The Alienist” examines the societal structures and prejudices of the time, touching upon class disparities, the roles of women in society, and the burgeoning field of psychology. The series adeptly juxtaposes the glitz of the Gilded Age with its seedy underbelly, revealing a complex web of corruption, ambition, and humanity.

Rating:

4/5 – “The Alienist” has been generally well-received for its lavish production, meticulous historical detail, and strong performances, particularly from its leading trio. Critics have praised its atmospheric portrayal of late 19th-century New York. However, some feel the narrative pacing can be uneven and occasionally veer into sensationalism.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating:

TV-MA – Due to its mature content, including graphic violence, sexual content, and thematic elements, the series is suitable for mature audiences.