'Eric' Review: Benedict Cumberbatch's powerful performance in Netflix series is everything we didn't know we needed
Contains spoilers for 'Eric'
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: 'Eric' has officially dropped on Netflix, a gripping series that revolves around Vincent, a puppeteer in 1980s New York, whose world turned upside down when his nine-year-old son, Edgar, goes missing.
Benedict Cumberbatch takes on the pivotal role of Vincent, while Ivan Morris plays Edgar in Netflix's 'Eric'.
Each time Benedict graces the screen, it's impossible to look away. His presence is commanding, exuding an air of calm professionalism that belies the raging storm of emotions underneath.
Despite being a serious story, the series also contains humorous moments, especially in the interactions between Vincent and his seven-foot-tall puppet, Eric.
Benedict Cumberbatch delivers an outstanding performance in 'Eric'
Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of Vincent is a delight to watch. Initially depicted as a strict and somewhat distant father who struggles to connect with his son, Vincent's character undergoes a transformation following Edgar's disappearance.
Clinging to his son's drawings of a monster puppet named Eric, Vincent becomes determined to bring Eric to life on television, believing that this will lead to Edgar's safe return.
Portraying a character as complex as Vincent is no easy feat, but Benedict rises to the challenge and does justice to the role. Benedict, known for his role as 'Doctor Strange', captures the essence of a father grappling with unimaginable loss, guilt, and desperation in 'Eric' with perfection.
His portrayal of Vincent's internal struggles, from the initial stoicism to the eventual emotional breakdown, is incredible.
From the outset, Vincent is portrayed as a man consumed by his own ego, yet as the story unfolds and he grapples with his son's disappearance, Benedict masterfully peels back the layers to reveal the vulnerability. He delivers a mesmerizing performance as the deeply flawed and narcissistic Vincent, whose unraveling psyche is magnified by the trauma of his son's disappearance.
While the interactions between Benedict and the puppet Eric are undeniably charming, it is Benedict's portrayal of Vincent's inner turmoil that is truly remarkable.
Benedict's portrayal as Cassie Anderson's (Gaby Hoffmann) husband is equally compelling. Together, they authentically capture the challenges faced by a couple, as well as the complexities of parenthood.
Whether they are navigating the ups and downs of married life or dealing with the everyday challenges of raising children, Vincent and Cassie seems like a real couple. Maybe it's Benedict's talent to strike chemistry with any female actor.
'Eric' strikes a perfect balance between reality and fantasy
'Eric' masterfully strikes the delicate balance between reality and fantasy. At its core, the show is a crime thriller series, centered around the disappearance of Edgar.
However, what sets 'Eric' apart is its incorporation of fantasy elements, particularly through the character of Eric, the puppet. While Eric is a creation of Edgar's imagination, he becomes a central figure in the story, representing both the innocence of childhood and the power of storytelling.
Blending true crime and social realism with hallucinations of a giant monster is a challenging combination, but the series skillfully incorporates Vincent's delusions.
One of the most striking aspects of Abi Morgan's writing in 'Eric' is her ability to blend humor and pathos seamlessly. The depiction of Vincent's hallucinations is both eerie and captivating, leaving a lingering sense of unease.
Even in serious situations, the conversations between Vincent and Eric elicit laughter from the audience. Their banter and witty exchanges take the limelight.
In 'Eric', the fusion of Benedict's talent with the whimsical puppetry of Eric has been a focal point of the show's promotion. However, this delightful pairing is just a small part of the larger narrative.
Overall, 'Eric' is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates intelligent writing, compelling characters, and a story that will make you laugh, cry, and think.
'Eric' is currently streaming on Netflix.