Discover the Gripping True Crime Series ‘Smoke’: Taron Egerton and Denis Lehane’s Latest Arson Thriller Reviewed!

SPOILER ALERT: The following content has plot details from the first two episodes of “Smoke,” now available on Apple TV+.

Three years back, crime writer Dennis Lehane and actor Taron Egerton teamed up for “Black Bird,” a gripping series about undercover informant James Keene. It explored tough themes of masculinity, earning critical acclaim and even Emmy nominations. Egerton shined as a tough criminal, while Paul Walter Hauser, in a supporting role as a killer, took home an Emmy.

Now, Egerton and Lehane are back together for “Smoke,” another true crime series that dives into criminal psychology. This time, the plot centers on arson. The story unfolds in Umberland, a fictional city in the Pacific Northwest, with Egerton playing an arson investigator paired with detective Michelle Calderon, played by Jurnee Smollett. The show uses the real city of Vancouver for its backdrop, transforming its landscapes into a setting filled with danger.

“Smoke” sparks curiosity right from the start. Egerton’s character, Dave Gudsen, is a former firefighter and aspiring novelist, allowing Lehane to lightly poke fun at some typical storytelling tropes. Smollett’s character, Michelle, brings a strong presence to the screen, revealing layers of trauma and personal challenges. A surprising twist at the end of the second episode really amps up the tension and signals the true direction of the show.

Let’s dive into that twist. One of the arsonists, Freddy, played by Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine, has a troubled past and a simple technique for setting fires. His character adds an interesting angle to the story, highlighting issues of mental health and societal struggles. However, the other arsonist remains a mystery—at least until Dave’s personal life takes a turbulent turn. This development leads him into a supermarket, where the suspense thickens, transitioning “Smoke” into a riveting cat-and-mouse game.

What’s fascinating is how the show portrays the duality of Dave. Egerton captures the blend of charm and menace perfectly, making his character both relatable and unsettling. As he’s revealed to be not just an investigator but also involved in arson, the complexity of human nature shines through.

“Smoke” balances its darker themes with humor. The awkwardness of Dave’s writing often lightens the mood, especially in scenes with Smollett, who delivers brilliant reactions. Other characters, like John Leguizamo’s unscrupulous ex-partner, add yet another layer of complexity to the narrative.

In terms of production, “Smoke” has strong backing, with executive producers from HBO lending their expertise. The show’s music, with a theme song by Thom Yorke of Radiohead, further enriches its artistic value.

While the series has fewer episodes than “Black Bird,” it doesn’t stay as tightly woven, especially toward the end. Some characters venture into stereotypes, and certain decisions from Michelle may stretch credulity. Nevertheless, “Smoke” stands out as a compelling watch. It intertwines personal stories with wider societal issues, delivering a narrative that’s engaging and thought-provoking.

The first two episodes of “Smoke” are streaming now, with more episodes releasing weekly on Fridays.

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Dennis Lehane,Smoke,Taron Egerton