Writer-director Brad Ingelsby returns to his familiar Philadelphia backdrop with the HBO series Task, starring Mark Ruffalo. The seven-episode thriller, premiering on September 7 at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and Max, follows an intense pursuit between an FBI agent recently widowed and a motorbike gang hijacker, highlighting Ingelsby’s continued exploration of how parental sins affect their children.
Plot and Central Characters in Task
Task shifts away from the single-protagonist, character-focused storytelling of Ingelsby’s previous work, such as Mare of Easttown, and instead delivers a gripping cat-and-mouse narrative. Mark Ruffalo plays Tom, a widowed FBI agent tasked with leading a cross-agency operation against a group of criminals. Opposite him is Robbie, portrayed by Tom Pelphrey, a garbage collector who doubles as head of a crew robbing a local motorcycle gang, the Dark Hearts. This sets up a high-stakes pursuit that drives the series.
Exploring Complex Characters Beyond Stereotypes
Both Ruffalo and Pelphrey bring depth to roles with familiar yet nuanced traits. Tom’s background as a former priest and current bird-watcher adds layers to his character, portraying a soulful and contemplative lawman grappling with personal loss. Robbie, on the other hand, challenges viewers’ expectations by blending a Robin Hood-like charisma with criminal enterprise, bellied by his infectious optimism rather than cynicism. Pelphrey’s authentic Delaware County accent reinforces the regional authenticity, balancing Ruffalo’s star power with compelling counterplay.
A Broad Ensemble Cast Adds Depth and Realism
Task evolves into a genuine ensemble drama rather than a dual-lead show. Tom’s team includes state trooper Lizzie (Alison Oliver), whose spirited demeanor contrasts with her occasional freezes in crisis; detective Dominic (Fabien Frankel), whose devout Catholic faith influences his approach; and Aleah (Thuso Mbedu), a survivor of domestic violence each bringing unique perspectives. Robbie‘s group features Cliff (Raul Castillo) and Peaches (Owen Teague), while the Dark Hearts gang is depicted through a strict internal hierarchy, with Perry (Jamie McShane) fiercely protective of his protégé Jayson (Sam Keeley). The careful casting orchestrated by Avy Kaufman ensures authentic, immersive performances that interweave the multiple storylines seamlessly.
Themes of Family and Survival Under Pressure
Underlying the crime narrative is a powerful examination of family dynamics and caregiving struggles. Tom lives with his adopted daughter Emily (Silvia Dionicio) amid the emotional distance created by the absence of his wife Susan (Mireille Enos) and institutionalized son Ethan (Andrew Russel). Similarly, Robbie co-parents his children alongside his niece Maeve (Emilia Jones), with both facing grief and upheaval after the loss of Maeve’s father and the departure of Robbie’s wife. Even within the Dark Hearts biker gang, protective loyalty and harsh discipline reveal a chosen family fighting for survival.
Direction and Cinematic Execution Highlight Moral Ambiguities
The series benefits from the dynamic direction of Jeremiah Zagar (We the Animals) and Salli Richardson Whitfield (The Gilded Age), who stage tense sequences that blur the lines between law enforcement and outlaw lives. Task provides a raw, often grim look at the characters’ realities while allowing moments of respite through shifting perspectives. The show wrestles with heavy themes of fatherhood, grief, and legacy, portraying characters fighting to protect the next generation—even if through desperate measures.
Premiere and Anticipated Reception
The first episode of Task will air on HBO and Max on September 7, with subsequent episodes released weekly on Sundays. Given its intense storytelling, complex characters, and deep emotional themes, the series promises to engage viewers interested in crime dramas that dig into the psychological consequences of violence and family ties. Mark Ruffalo’s portrayal of Tom, alongside strong ensemble performances, is expected to elevate the show’s appeal and solidify Brad Ingelsby’s reputation for crafting thoughtful explorations of troubled communities.
