A period crime drama has left viewers hooked, with many calling it a gripping Victorian thriller that can be consumed in a single sitting. Fans are urging others to watch this cherished series adapted from a 1994 novel, featuring an impressive ensemble cast.
The Alienist: A Victorian Thriller with a Stellar Cast
The Alienist is an American period crime drama based on Caleb Carr's 1994 novel. The series stars Daniel Brühl, Luke Evans, and Dakota Fanning as an improvised investigative unit formed in 1890s New York City to track down a serial killer targeting street children. The show blends historical fact with fiction by incorporating real-life figures, including Theodore Roosevelt, who served as police commissioner between 1895 and 1897.
The ten-episode limited series premiered on TNT in early 2018, with a second season arriving in 2020.
Official Synopsis
The official synopsis states: "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 (aka alienist) 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. Using the emerging disciplines of psychology and early forensic investigation techniques, this band of social outsiders set out to find and apprehend one of New York City's first serial killers."
The cast also features Brian Geraghty as Theodore Roosevelt, alongside Robert Ray Wisdom, Douglas Smith, Matthew Shear, Q'orianka Kilcher, Matt Lintz, Rosy McEwen, and Melanie Field.
Free Streaming and Fan Reactions
All 18 episodes of The Alienist are currently available to stream for free on U, with certain viewers even managing to watch the complete series in a single sitting.
One IMDb reviewer commented: "Hidden gem. People romanticize the Victorian period and our history and this show shines a light on the realities of that time, the seedy underbelly, the corruption, ignorance and greed."
Another remarked: "Peaky Blinders meets True Detective, with a bit of the Exorcist mixed in! A must-watch. Compelling to the end," while a third simply stated: "Chilling masterpiece."
A fourth enthusiast echoed this view, noting: "I actually think this is better than Peaky Blinders. Better writing than Ripper Street with all the flair of a horror film."
Someone else commented: "The story is dark and twisting. One of the greatest TV shows, definitely top shelf viewing!" with another adding: "One of the best crime series. Outstanding."
The Alienist is currently streaming for free on U.
