A period crime drama has left viewers hooked, with many calling it a 'masterpiece' that surpasses even Peaky Blinders. The Alienist is an American series based on Caleb Carr's 1994 novel, featuring an ensemble cast including Daniel Brühl, Luke Evans, and Dakota Fanning.
A Star-Studded Cast in 1890s New York
The series follows an improvised investigative team in mid-1890s New York City, tracking a serial killer targeting street children. It blends fact with fiction, featuring historical figures like Theodore Roosevelt, who served as police commissioner. The ten-episode first season premiered in 2018, with a second season in 2020.
Chilling Storyline and Free Streaming
The official synopsis describes: 'The Alienist opens when a series of haunting, gruesome murders of boy prostitutes grips New York City. Newly appointed police commissioner Theodore Roosevelt calls upon criminal psychologist Dr. Laszlo Kreizler and newspaper illustrator John Moore to conduct the investigation in secret.' They are joined by Sara Howard, a headstrong secretary determined to become the city's first female police detective.
The ensemble cast also includes Brian Geraghty as Theodore Roosevelt, Robert Ray Wisdom, Douglas Smith, Matthew Shear, Q'orianka Kilcher, Matt Lintz, Rosy McEwen, and Melanie Field. All 18 episodes are currently streaming for free on U, with some fans powering through the entire series in a single sitting.
Viewer Reactions
One IMDb reviewer called it a 'hidden gem' that shines a light on the realities of the Victorian period. Another remarked: 'Peaky Blinders meets True Detective, with a bit of the Exorcist mixed in! A must-watch.' A third simply declared: 'Chilling masterpiece.'
A fourth viewer commented: 'I actually think this is better than Peaky Blinders. Better writing than Ripper Street with all the flair of a horror film.' Another wrote: 'The story is dark and twisting. One of the greatest TV shows, definitely top shelf viewing!'
The Alienist is currently streaming for free on U.
