Ever wondered what could be more grim than Mare of Easttown? Brad Ingelsby is back with “Task,” a new HBO miniseries that’s serving up even more Delaware County despair. Expect slow-burn suspense, powerful performances, and enough heavy drama to make even a kidnapper feel sad. Are you ready for the ultimate wallow?
The latest highly anticipated HBO series, “Task,” marks the return of creator Brad Ingelsby, renowned for his Emmy-winning “Mare of Easttown.” This new crime drama plunges viewers back into the familiar, bleak landscape of Delaware County, Pennsylvania, where profound despair and complex characters intertwine. It immediately establishes a heavy, somber tone, exemplified by a character’s lament, “I’ve kidnapped the most depressing human.”
Fans of Ingelsby’s previous work will find “Task” echoing the distinctive atmosphere and thematic depth of “Mare of Easttown,” yet it manages to carve out an even more profoundly dour space. While “Mare” offered occasional glimmers of levity through supporting characters, “Task” maintains a relentless, grim focus on its deeply troubled protagonists, providing few respites from its pervasive sense of melancholy and limited prospects.
This miniseries review highlights a narrative that begins with a deliberate, slow burn, characteristic of Ingelsby’s storytelling. The initial episodes unfold at a measured pace, allowing the audience to gradually immerse themselves in the intricate web of personal traumas and criminal pursuits. However, as the seven-episode arc progresses, the plot gains significant momentum, evolving into a more propulsive and engaging experience.
Central to the series is Tom Pelphrey’s compelling portrayal of Robbie, a garbage man entangled in a side gig robbing drug stash houses. Pelphrey, known for his scene-stealing supporting roles, steps confidently into the lead, imbuing Robbie with a complex blend of forced optimism, simmering rage, and deep-seated family trauma, making him a truly captivating figure.
The supporting cast further elevates the crime drama with powerful performances. Emilia Jones shines as a young woman forced to confront adulthood far too soon, constantly burdened by the fallout from her uncle’s choices. Ian McShane delivers a memorable, albeit smaller, role as a character whose barely contained anger mirrors, and perhaps even surpasses, Robbie’s own.
The setting of Delaware County, PA, is more than just a backdrop; it’s a character in itself, contributing significantly to the series’ authenticity and gritty realism. The show continues Ingelsby’s tradition of featuring local cuisine, with Martha Plimpton’s character enjoying regional dishes, grounding the story firmly in its distinctive locale.
Ultimately, “Task” delves into themes of societal disillusionment, the psychological toll of past traumas, and the stark realities faced by individuals with seemingly few paths to emotional well-being. It’s a testament to Brad Ingelsby’s consistent vision, presenting a raw and unflinching look at the human condition within a working-class American setting.
For those who appreciate a meticulously crafted, character-driven crime drama that doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of life, “Task” offers a profoundly rewarding experience. Its slow build and intense performances culminate in a satisfying, albeit somber, conclusion, solidifying its place as a standout HBO series.
