'The Killing Kind' Review: Emma Appleton delivers standout performance in Hulu's thriller series
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM: 'The Killing Kind' is streaming on Hulu from May 14, 2024. 'The Killing Kind' created by Zara Hayes, is based on a book of the same name by Jane Casey and follows the story of Ingrid Lewis (Emma Appleton) as she investigates the death of her colleague Belinda Grey (Sara Powell).
'The Killing Kind' features a talented cast that includes Emma Appleton, Colin Morgan, Elliot Barnes-Worrell, Sara Powell, Olivia D'Lima, Nicholas Rowe, Sophie Stanton, Bethany Muir, and Kerr Logan among others.
The series is a psychological thriller where the story is told using flashbacks to establish the relationship between Ingrid Lewis and John Webster, who was her client in a stalking case and helps her in investigating the murder of Belinda while confessing to his love for Ingrid. Ingrid is dealing with the guilt of Emma Seaton's (Bethany Muir) death. Emma took her own life after the acquittal of John Webster in a case where she accused him of stalking and harassment.
The makers have carefully sculpted in time and intelligently taken the audience into the depths of Ingrid Lewis and John Webster's minds while intertwining the storyline and moving it forward at a good pace. Here is a detailed review of 'The Killing Kind'.
'The Killing Kind' is a brilliantly scripted psychological thriller
Investment in character building makes the writing of 'The Killing Kind' special. The psychological dissection of Ingrid Lewis is laced together with the plot without convoluting it at any stage in the show.
The character of John Webster is a physical reminder of the ghosts of Ingrid's past and how she must get rid of them to move on in her life and career. The dichotomy of a lawyer trying to serve justice and at the same time trying their best to defend their client is the centerpiece of an engaging puzzle that 'The Killing Kind' is.
The physical manifestation of guilt and consequences adds weight to the screenplay and the climax is the perfect payoff as it completes all the character arcs and gives the audience a climax they can be satisfied with.
Emma Appleton is the perfect choice for Ingrid Lewis
Emma Appleton carries this show on her back and does it exceptionally well. Her character arc requires her to play many shades of emotions and her expressions are always on point.
Colin Morgan is restrained in the character John Webster and that works for his character as his subtle change of expression is precise for his role. He has a haunting presence that lingers on after the show.
Bethany Muir does exceptionally well in a small role, particularly in the final scene where the confrontation happens with Emma Appleton. She brings out the best in Emma Appleton too.
Zara Hayes and Chanya Button have crafted a cerebral psychological thriller
Directors Zara Hayes and Chanya Button are in top form in this series and from the writing to its execution, they have crafted a brilliant series that ticks most boxes.
It is a visual treat to watch with great costume design, art direction, and cinematography. The editing is exceptional going back and forth in time as they build the story.
The only thing that didn't work for this series was its rushed climax. It did complete the story but perhaps taking another episode to do it would not have harmed the show.
'The Killing Kind' trailer
'The Killing Kind' is streaming on Hulu from May 14.
