For audiences that enjoy period dramas, mysteries, or series that include some dark themes,The Alienistis a much-watch. This TV series is based on the 1994 novel of the same name by Caleb Carr.The Alienisttakes place in 19th Century America and focuses on a trio that are involved in solving mysteries. However, this trio is not like the usual mystery gangs we see in TV. Rather, it includes a criminal psychiatrist, also known as an alienist, named Dr. Laszlo Kreizler (Daniel Brühl), a New York Times illustrator and cartoonist named John Moore (Luke Evans), and a strong headed woman named Sara Howard (Dakota Fanning), who ends up becoming the first woman employed by the NYPD. With two seasons already released, audiences that enjoyed this series are eagerly awaiting season three, which is yet to be confirmed.
However,The Alienistseems to be anunderrated series that definitely deserves more recognitionthan it gets. Perhaps, that might be an initiative for the series to return with season three. Either way, if the trio’s “occupations” are not enough to entice the audience, this article will show howThe Alienistis a binge-worthy period drama that is filled with suspense and chills.
Related:Will The Alienist Return for Season 3?
The Unusual Mysteries
One key reason as to why this particular show grasps the viewer’s attention is its mysteries. Each season focuses on one peculiar mystery that cannot be solved easily. Of course, these mysteries can be a bit too gruesome and chilling. What is interesting about the two seasons is that the first season ofThe Alienistallows Dr. Laszlo to take the lead in solving the mystery, while the second season,The Alienist: Angel of Darkness, shifts the point of view and allows Sara Howard to take the lead role.
In season one, the series follows the murders of young boy prostitutes in New York. The gruesome nature of the murders suggests that the serial killer is someone who is psychologically distraught, as we see him carving out certain body parts of his victims, and leaving the “remainder”. In season two, there is a criminal of a different nature. The series follows the mysterious missing and murders of infants. The story focuses on not only how the murderer is a woman who has psychiatric issues, but also the unorthodox methods used by the trio to solve the mysteries.
Brilliant Casting and Acting
Daniel Brühldelivers a magnificent performanceas Dr. Laszlo. It is undeniable that portraying a psychiatrist is no easy task as it requires the person to be able to understand the other characters. Dr. Laszlo is a character who is not merely a psychiatrist, as his background and the unusual methods used by him indicate that he is different from the other specialists in his field. His understanding nature, as well as his affection towards children and other people who are regarded as “outcasts” by elite society, makes Dr. Laszlo a favorite among viewers. In an interview, Brühl talks about howhis wife, who is a psychotherapist, helped, as he states; “She gave me stuff to read. She put me in touch with other psychologists, with a criminal psychologist.”
This goes on to show the effort Brühl has put in, as well as the research done to take over the role of Dr. Laszlo.
Sara Howard’s character, played by Dakota Fanning, is yet another complex character. She is a strong-willed woman who is quite ambitious. Similar to Dr. Laszlo, Howard has a dark past as she is someone who witnessed her father’s suicide. This is reflected in her character, as she attempts to stay away from deep connections. What makes this character quite important is the way in which she attempts to break patriarchal norms. By season two, we see her running her own detective agency.
John Moore’s character seems to be quite different to Lazlo, and Howard as he seems to be more emotional than them.Luke Evanscapturesthe nature of Moore’s character perfectly, since this character is the crucial element that balances the dark personalities of the other two.
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Exploration of Crucial Themes
Another very important reason to watchThe Alienistis the manner in which it explores some fundamental themes. Feminism is one major theme that is emphasized in the show. With Sara Howard being a strong and independent woman, we see her tackling some massive patriarchal norms, like refusing to marry, and opening up a detective agency that hires women. Of course, Sara usesher privilege and status to achieve her goals. Yet again, it is definitely better than adhering to the rules expected of a societal woman.
Mental health is obviously another theme that is focused on the series. With Dr. Laszlo trying to shed light on various mental health issues, the show focuses on how it was a huge taboo in the 19th century. The social class system that was evident in 19th century America is yet another key theme that is brought out. Yes, the leading characters are all from high classes. However, the show emphasizes on this theme by showing the plight of those who are poor and unable to cover up their experiences.
