Arson sparks hit Apple TV+ series ‘Smoke’ by Dennis Lehane

Dennis Lehane, the talented writer behind novels like “Gone, Baby, Gone” and “Mystic River,” is known for his gripping storytelling that delves into the darker sides of human nature. His latest venture, the nine-episode crime drama “Smoke” on Apple TV+, explores the chilling world of serial arson with a unique twist.

Inspired by a true story of a former arson investigator convicted of arson and bizarrely writing a novel about a serial arsonist firefighter, Lehane was fascinated by the mind behind such twisted actions. The series stars Greg Kinnear, Taron Egerton, Jurnee Smollett, Anna Chlumsky, and John Leguizamo, with an original song by Thom Yorke of Radiohead.

Egerton’s character, Dave Gudsen, is an arson investigator in the fictional town of Umberland, working alongside a detective played by Smollett. The duo embarks on a complex game of cat and mouse, revealing layered characters with questionable morals that add depth to the storyline.

“Smoke” transcends the typical TV procedural format, delving into moral ambiguity and contradictions within its characters. Egerton’s portrayal of Dave strikes a balance between goofy and frightening, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Smollett’s character, a former Marine with a troubled past, adds emotional depth to the series, exploring themes of vulnerability and self-destruction.

With Lehane’s sharp street poetry woven throughout the narrative, “Smoke” is a gripping exploration of the destructive power of fire and the flawed individuals who are drawn to it. The series promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, unraveling secrets and exploring the darker facets of human nature in a captivating and thought-provoking way.