Taron Egerton Apple TV+ crime thriller “Smoke” brings together the acclaimed actor with author and creator Dennis Lehane, centering on a gripping investigation inspired by the real arsonist John Leonard Orr. Launching on Apple TV+, the series explores the complex motives behind arson, as Egerton and Jurnee Smollett bring layered performances to a world shaped by danger, trauma, and troubled psychology.
The premise of “Smoke” draws from Lehane’s previous work on major crime dramas such as “The Wire” and “Shutter Island,” in addition to Egerton’s established reputation from “The Kingsman” franchise. Developed from the podcast “Firebug” by Truth Podcasting Corp, the story delves into the hunt for two serial arsonists, one directly influenced by the real-life crimes committed by Orr. Set in the modern era, the narrative leans heavily into character-driven investigations while balancing factual inspiration with fictional storytelling.
Complicated Characters and a Dynamic Investigator Partnership
Egerton steps into the role of Dave Gudson, while Jurnee Smollett portrays Detective Michell Calderon, forming an odd yet compelling pair at the heart of the investigation. Their contrasting approaches—Gudson’s raw, grating demeanor compared to Calderon’s fiery determination—drive much of the show’s emotional tension. As the story moves forward, Egerton’s Gudson becomes increasingly hard to stomach, but his character’s troubled pathos adds to the complexity of the unfolding drama.
Smollett’s Detective Calderon takes on the case under her own shadow, grappling with memories of a previous arson attack that changed her life. Her character is spirited and relentless, though not without flaws, making the dynamic partnership intriguing as they dissect what motivates serial arsonists. The chemistry between Egerton and Smollett forms the backbone of the show, unifying an ensemble that includes other notable performances, such as Ntare Mwine as the loner Freddy Fasano.
The dialogue throughout “Smoke” creates a distinct, insular environment among the investigative authorities, painting a world filled with aggressive banter, frequent innuendo, and a charged, sometimes uncomfortable, atmosphere. This style of interaction, while occasionally overbearing, helps to immerse viewers in a community shaped by tension, history, and the emotional baggage that characters carry with them.
While the series pays homage to the facts surrounding John Leonard Orr, its main focus is constructing a drama that feels just as persuasive as the true events. The choice to set “Smoke” in the present day rather than the 1980s allows the cast room to develop unique, modern interpretations of their roles. The result is a blend of reality and fiction, underscored by a strong sense of character and local culture.
Slow-Burn Pacing and Gritty Explorations
“Smoke” intentionally foregrounds the reveal of its arsonists early on, choosing instead to build suspense and emotional stakes as the investigation takes shape. The narrative structure moves away from simple whodunit mechanics, focusing instead on the intense personal impacts of the crimes and the psychology of those involved. Ntare Mwine’s portrayal of Freddy Fasano stands out in parallel to Orr’s legacy, weaving a sympathetic and difficult thread through the show’s plot.
The story’s layers give its actors the opportunity to move beyond literal adaptations of real-life events, instead playing with nested narratives that provide additional depth. The creators do not hesitate to critique toxic masculinity and highlight institutional failures when supporting disenfranchised men, using the characters‘ experiences as a lens to question society’s overall response to such threats.
Although “Smoke” employs plenty of dark humor, its core message remains sober. Entertainment value intermingles with an undercurrent of warning about the dangers posed by individuals like Orr and the lasting effects on their victims and communities. The storyline ultimately becomes an exploration of the catastrophic consequences that arise when those motivations go unchecked.
With its precise visual style and pacing that slowly heightens tension, the series entices audiences to keep watching even during its quieter episodes. Especially in the early installments, the narrative progression feels sluggish, but as secrets start to emerge and the plot accelerates, momentum builds, leading to what many will consider a rewarding payoff.
Standout Performances and Subtle Social Commentary
The performances from Taron Egerton, as Dave Gudson, and Jurnee Smollett, as Detective Michell Calderon, are central to the success of “Smoke.” Their on-screen energy and detailed character work hold the ensemble together, making even the most fraught or outlandish moments watchable. Egerton brings unsettling authenticity to Gudson’s struggles, while Smollett injects passion and a sense of purpose into Calderon’s investigation.
Supporting actors such as Ntare Mwine add to the intricate web of motives driving the story forward, offering views into the minds of both the law enforcement officers and those on the fringes of society. The show’s attention to the subtle shifts in power, history, and psychology between characters helps to keep each episode engaging.
Despite at times excessive use of profanity and crude exchanges among the cast, “Smoke” delivers an impact through its exploration of how trauma shapes individuals and communities. The relationships depicted—often brimming with histories and unresolved conflicts—feel authentic and resonate with viewers seeking more than standard procedural fare.
Premiere and Audience Expectations
“Smoke” is set to debut its first two episodes on Apple TV+ on June 27, followed by new episodes each Friday. Early reactions suggest that while the opening episodes lean into a slow-burn approach, viewers who commit to the journey are rewarded with a nuanced and powerful resolution. For fans of truth-based crime thrillers, the series provides both intense character studies and a cautionary tale about obsession and the damage it leaves behind.
By weaving together inspired performances from key actors, a carefully-constructed story rooted in disturbing true events, and critical commentary on the darker elements of society, “Smoke” positions itself as a standout in the landscape of streaming crime dramas. For those seeking a thoughtful, layered take on both criminal psychology and institutional response, Taron Egerton Apple TV+ crime thriller “Smoke” is likely to become a must-see series for the year ahead.
