Since its debut in 2021, numerous creators have attempted to emulate the atmospheric and intricate storytelling of Mare of Easttown, featuring Kate Winslet.
The latest production from creator Brad Ingelsby, titled Task, incorporates various aspects from his acclaimed series, resulting in a gripping thriller that keeps viewers on edge until the very end. This seven-episode series presents two main characters for the audience to connect with; they are on a collision course from which there is no escape.
Task: Plot
Mark Ruffalo portrays FBI agent Tom Brandis, who leads a task force investigating a series of violent heists targeting drug dens and gang hideouts. As he and his team delve deeper into the investigation, they uncover treachery and informants that have far-reaching consequences. At the same time, primary suspect Robbie Prendergast (Tom Pelphrey) is suppressing powerful emotions that could jeopardize his and his family's safety. Will both individuals survive the ordeal?
Task: Writing and Direction
While both Mare of Easttown and Task explore dark themes, the new series carries a slightly more hopeful tone amid the chaos depicted on screen. Ingelsby crafts his lead character, Brandis, as a former priest who strives to see the good in everyone until a personal tragedy strikes. Similar to Mare (Winslet), Tom grapples with his own inner struggles. As he uncovers certain realities about the motorcycle gang Dark Hearts, the lives of his task force members hang in the balance.
Ingelsby, who has penned all episodes, skillfully escalates the tension, revealing small fragments of the overarching mystery that, when pieced together, are shocking. The direction of the series is also exceptional, allowing most characters to share their viewpoints. The creators build the series to a boiling point, leading to an all-out conflict with numerous casualties. Ingelsby is unafraid to eliminate characters, as those in Mare of Easttown can attest.
Task: Performances
The adaptable Ruffalo once again showcases his dramatic talent as a mourning widower striving to maintain control over his family and task force. With graying hair and a bit of a belly, this portrayal is a stark contrast to the superhero and romantic comedy image most fans are familiar with. However, the familial tensions echo his earlier breakout performance in You Can Count On Me (2000). Tom Pelphrey and Emilia Jones deliver an electrifying performance as uncle and niece Robbie and Maeve Prendergast.
The FBI task force includes Aleah (Thuso Mbedu), Anthony (House of the Dragon's Fabien Frankel), and Lizzie (Alison Oliver), who effectively embody their roles, while Martha Plimpton shines as Tom's superior, Kathleen. Other noteworthy supporting cast members include Jamie McShane, Phoebe Fox, Silvia Dionicio, and Mireille Enos in a brief appearance as Tom's deceased wife, Susan.
Task: Final Verdict
The HBO Max series explores various themes of loss, redemption, and vengeance; it even poses inquiries about faith. Although the episodes are only seven hours long, Task unfolds gradually, building momentum toward its conclusion. It takes its time to establish the world and characters, and once viewers become familiar with them, it manipulates our emotions by placing them all in peril. Task serves as a commendable successor to Mare of Easttown, delving into second chances and the quest for meaning in life. The series will premiere every Monday on JioHotstar starting September 8.
