Poetic Review

Apple TV “Smoke,” gripping new crime drama from creator Dennis Lehane

SMOKE (Apple TV)

By Lin Milano

This isn’t just a show about chasing arsonists—it’s about people consumed by the very thing they’re trying to control. 

Smoke digs deep into the psychological toll of confronting destruction day after day, and it does so with sharp writing, layered performances, and bold choices. The result? A series that isn’t just hot—it’s scorching.

:boom: Characters That Burn Bright
Taron Egerton is gripping as Mickey, a fire investigator with a haunted past and a simmering intensity. He’s as unpredictable and dangerous as the fires he investigates—driven, damaged, and always on edge.
Jurnee Smollett, as Detective Michelle Calderone, brings clarity and compassion to the chaos. She’s sharp, grounded, and fiercely determined. Together, their chemistry crackles with tension and begrudging trust, making every scene between them feel volatile and real.

 A clever new take on fire investigations — not your typical crime drama. This series dives into how fires start, but things quickly get strange. Twists you don’t expect. A bit crazy in all the right ways. The writing keeps you guessing, and the cast? Fantastic across the board. Sharp performances with just the right edge.
If you’re into slow-burn thrillers with brains and bite, this one’s worth watching.

The Movie Gallery: Lin’s Collection