Furious

There’s a scene in the first episode of Furious where NYPD officer turned FBI agent Alice Black (Emmy Rossum) sits by the hospital bed of a teenage abuse victim alongside her world-weary superior, Nora Washington (Quincy Tyler Bernstine). Nora tells Alice the story of Medusa, of how Athena turned her into a monster after she was assaulted by Poseidon. “She’s a victim, but that doesn’t make her a good person,” Nora explains. “Victims of violence are the most violent.” This is the thematic core of creator Elizabeth Meriwether’s fierce crime thriller as the hunt for an elusive serial killer evolves into a rich character study about trauma, power dynamics and abuse. Driven by a sublime ensemble cast, the opening three episodes are a marvellous introduction to what’s set to be a powerful piece of television.

The metaphorical Medusa is a devious murderer brilliantly played by Lola Petticrew, who’s seeking retribution for her past. Her latest target is the son of a prominent billionaire, whom she watches slowly die of an overdose in the opening scene. Alice is brought on to investigate the death by a former colleague (Scoot McNairy) and notices similarities between an older case. As she pursues the killer, she’s forced to confront her own recent history of domestic violence and the fallout that it’s caused in her own life.

The plot is divided between the perspectives of Alice and the killer. As Alice pushes back against workplace sexism, the perpetrator uses a false identity to stay in women’s shelters and manipulate those around her. Although these characters are at opposite ends of the law, they share a lot of common ground. This includes a deep anger towards the men who wronged them. This rage is felt throughout the series, with Meriwether ultimately asking whose actions are just.

Rossum and Petticrew are utterly captivating. Both actors convey the pain felt by their characters to harrowing effect, with the little moments having the most impact. In one devastating scene, Alice is berated by a family member and blamed for what her ex-boyfriend did to her. In another, she solemnly questions her friend about why he never asked what happened.

With Furious, Meriwether underscores how violence can destroy entire lives and relationships. It’s a provocative thriller and character piece that has a sharp feminist edge and often feels all too real.

Andrew Murray

Furious is released on Disney+ on 27^th July 2026.

Watch the trailer for Furious here: