From Collider · Charlie Ridgely · · 1m 30s
Apple TV's 'Nocturne' Review
Apple TV's 'Nocturne' delivers a gripping crime thriller with a strong cast but struggles with overproduction.
In brief
Apple TV's 'Nocturne' delivers a gripping crime thriller with a strong cast but struggles with overproduction. Apple TV's 'Nocturne' is a solid crime thriller that could've been even better. Originally reported by Collider.
Nocturne's Origin
Apple TV's 'Nocturne' adapts Lars Kepler's 'The Sandman' novel into a crime thriller set in Western Pennsylvania.
Key Characters
Liev Schreiber plays Jonah Lynn, a former police detective grieving his family's death, while Stephen Graham portrays the imprisoned killer Jurek Walter.
Setting and Conflict
The quiet town of Fairhaven, PA faces panic when a missing boy reappears, raising questions about the killer's accomplice.
Plot Progression
FBI agent Saga Bauer goes undercover at Walter's facility to uncover the missing girl's whereabouts.
Production Style
The series features overproduction with excessive camera tricks and lighting that distance it from realistic storytelling.
Cast Performance
Bill Camp shines as Fairhaven's sheriff with a flawless Western PA accent and grounded performances.
Season Structure
Nocturne has seven episodes out of ten, with a mystery box element that keeps viewers engaged throughout.
Strengths
The show's strong cast and gripping mystery keep viewers invested despite production challenges.
Weaknesses
Overproduction and complex dialogue make the story feel disconnected from real-life authenticity.
Release Date
Nocturne premieres October 30, 2026, on Apple TV.
Overall Assessment
Nocturne sets a higher bar than many genre contemporaries but could've been even better with less overproduction.
The short version
Apple TV's 'Nocturne' is a solid crime thriller that could've been even better.
