True Detective Review: A Southern Gothic Detective Story
8.5/10 — True Detective (2014)
Pros
- McConaughey and Harrelson's performances
- Atmospheric direction
- Distinctive tone
Cons
- Later seasons are weaker
- Resolution doesn't match the build-up
In its first season, two Louisiana detectives, Rust Cohle and Marty Hart, hunt a ritualistic killer across seventeen years. Nic Pizzolatto wrote the series and Cary Fukunaga directed every episode.
What works
McConaughey and Harrelson are riveting, and the nihilistic dialogue gives the series a distinct voice. Fukunaga’s direction, including a six-minute tracking shot in episode four, is superb, and the atmosphere of rural Louisiana is oppressive.
Where it falters
Later seasons were uneven, with the second widely disliked. The first season’s mystery resolution is less impressive than its set-up.
Verdict
A moody, stylish first season that’s the show’s high point.
