


The Alienist
New York, 1896. Police commissioner Theodore Roosevelt brings together criminal psychologist Dr. Laszlo Kreizler, newspaper illustrator John Moore and secretary Sara Howard to investigate several murders of male prostitutes.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1896 New York City, a criminal psychologist known as an 'alienist,' Dr. Laszlo Kreizler, teams up with newspaper illustrator John Moore and police secretary Sara Howard to investigate a series of gruesome murders of boy prostitutes. They delve into the dark underbelly of Gilded Age society, using early psychological profiling techniques to catch a killer operating in the shadows.
Critical Reception
The series received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its atmospheric production design, compelling performances, and suspenseful narrative. Some found the plot occasionally convoluted, but the overall engagement and historical detail were frequently highlighted.
What Reviewers Say
- Visually stunning with a rich period atmosphere.
- Strong performances anchor the dark and intricate mystery.
- Engaging but sometimes complex narrative that demands attention.
Google audience: Viewers appreciated the show's dark, atmospheric portrayal of 19th-century New York and the compelling performances, particularly from the lead actors. Some found the storyline a bit slow-paced in parts but generally praised its suspense and historical setting.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for 5 Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Period And/Or Character Music Composition and Outstanding Production Design For A Narrative Period Or Fantasy Program.
Fun Fact
The series is based on the 1994 novel of the same name by Caleb Carr, which was the first in a trilogy featuring Dr. Laszlo Kreizler.
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My Review
TMDB Reviews
3 reviews