Eric challenges genre definitions, blending elements of family drama with detective fiction and a critique of the enduring social and economic policies from the Reagan era. The six-episode miniseries showcases Benedict Cumberbatch in the dual roles of Vincent Anderson, master puppeteer of a children’s television show and the voice behind the eponymous monster puppet, Eric. Abi Morgan, the series’ writer and creator, along with director Lucy Forbes, strike a balance between sincerity and peculiarity. Although ambitious, the Netflix original doesn’t quite rise above the pack, providing entertainment that, though enjoyable, may not be particularly memorable.
Cumberbatch’s portrayal of Vincent, a misanthropic and alcoholic puppeteer genius grappling with the world behind the cheerful façade of his children’s show, is complex. When Vincent experiences the loss of his son Edgar (Ivan Morris Howe), his harrowing journey is marked by despair, derangement and the creation of a new puppet based on Edgar’s drawings. Vincent’s life off-camera contrasts sharply with his on-screen persona as familial struggles and a quest for personal redemption unfold.
The series is further anchored by the performance of Gaby Hoffman, who portrays Vincent’s wife Cassie in a poignant depiction of a mother’s anguish and desperation. Eric delves into the psychological and emotional aspects of its characters while weaving a narrative tapestry that encompasses political intrigue and touches on societal issues through its 1980s setting and its ensemble cast.
The narrative complexity of the series escalates through the subplot involving detective Michael Ledroit (McKinley Belcher III), whose own story reveals the dark underbelly of systemic corruption and prejudice in ’80s-era New York. As the drama unfolds, Vincent’s loss becomes a looking glass into broader societal plights, with the period setting functioning as both a narrative backdrop and a commentary on contemporary circumstances.
However, Eric at times feels too confined, as characters interact within an unrealistically small slice of the city. The show’s approach to storytelling is both a strength and a weakness; it entertains with moments of levity while sometimes diluting the impact of its darker themes. Yet, its blend of humor with the darker threads of the narrative helps make the series digestible without overwhelming viewers with its intensely emotional core.
Ultimately, Eric stands as a testament to the storytelling power of merging character drama with important social issues. While it might not reach the zenith of what it aims to achieve, it nonetheless offers some standout moments, especially as a platform for Benedict Cumberbatch’s acting prowess.
‘Eric’ becomes available for streaming on Netflix starting May 30th.
FAQs about ‘Eric’ Starring Benedict Cumberbatch
- What is ‘Eric’ about?
‘Eric’ is a genre-blending Netflix miniseries that combines elements of family drama, detective story, and social critique, set in the 1980s and starring Benedict Cumberbatch.
- Who does Benedict Cumberbatch play in ‘Eric’?
Cumberbatch plays Vincent Anderson, a master puppeteer of a children’s show and the voice of the monster puppet, Eric. He also portrays the character’s struggle as a parent after the disappearance of his son.
- How many episodes are in ‘Eric’?
The Netflix series ‘Eric’ consists of six episodes.
- When will ‘Eric’ be released on Netflix?
‘Eric’ is set to begin streaming on Netflix on May 30th.
- Is ‘Eric’ based on a true story?
No, ‘Eric’ is a work of fiction created by writer Abi Morgan and director Lucy Forbes.