Netflix has quietly added the acclaimed British crime drama Prey to its UK library, and the show is already climbing the platform's most-watched charts. The series, which originally aired on ITV, is a gripping thriller that has drawn comparisons to Prime Suspect, Broadchurch, and Line of Duty.
Series Overview and Accolades
Prey first premiered on 28 April 2014 in the UK, with a second series commissioned in April 2015 and broadcast later that December. Each series consists of three episodes, each running approximately 45 minutes, leaning towards a miniseries format. The show received a BAFTA Television Award nomination in the 'Mini Series' category in 2015.
Rosie Cavaliero plays DS Susan Reinhart, the only lead character to appear across both series. John Simm (known for Grace, Doctor Who, and Life on Mars) stars in the first series, while Philip Glenister (Life on Mars, Ashes to Ashes) takes the lead in the second. For his portrayal of DC Marcus Farrow in the first series, John Simm won a Royal Television Society North West Award for 'Best Male Performance'.
Cast and Plot
The first series of Prey also features Anastasia Hille, Craig Parkinson, and Benedict Wong in supporting roles. The second series includes MyAnna Buring, Nathan Stewart-Jarrett, Ralph Ineson, and Daniel Jillings. The show's official plot describes Detective Sergeant Susan Reinhardt as she investigates two intense cases involving corruption by UK law enforcement officials. In the first case, she pursues colleague DC Marcus Farrow, wanted for the murder of his wife and son. In the second, prison officer Dave Murdoch's pregnant daughter is kidnapped, and he must help an inmate escape for her release.
Critical and Audience Reception
Prey boasts a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. One critic said: "Prey... is a near perfect blend of well-crafted characterizations within the context of a credibly gripping murder case." Another reviewer added: "Despite its familiar premise, Prey is an engrossing, dynamic series, a testament to the sturdiness of the tropes it's driven by as well as Lunt's ability to play with and execute ideas so many have others explored." A third critic noted: "Bolstered by a stacked roster of very capable British actors, Simm, Glenister and Cavaliero go a long way toward helping you not worry about wasting your time."
Audiences have been equally effusive. One viewer wrote: "I can't believe that I just found this gem. Outstanding acting from virtually everyone, non stop action, great storyline." Another said: "BRITS DO IT BEST... The Brits just seem to have the formula for these types of series..always spot on..better than anything on American and Canadian TV...and anything with John Simm in it is going to be A1 entertainment."
Streaming Availability
Prey is available to stream on Netflix now.
