Billy Crystal Stars in Supernatural Series ‘Before’ on Apple TV+
Apple TV+ continues to explore themes of grief and loss with the release of its latest drama series, "Before," starring Billy Crystal. The show follows a familiar narrative thread for the streaming platform, focusing on a man mourning the death of his wife. Crystal’s character, Eli, a child psychologist, grapples with the loss of his wife Lynn, who died by suicide after battling cancer. Haunted by memories of her, Eli struggles to move on, even refusing to enter the bathroom where she passed away.
As the series unfolds, Eli’s life takes a new turn when he encounters a mysterious eight-year-old boy named Noah, portrayed by Jacobi Jupe. Noah exhibits troubling behavior, including lashing out and speaking in a foreign language, leading Eli to question the nature of these occurrences. With the help of colleagues and friends, Eli delves into Noah’s unsettling experiences, which blur the lines between reality and the supernatural.
Despite its intriguing premise, "Before" falls short in delivering a compelling narrative. The show’s reliance on standard supernatural thriller tropes and predictable plot twists leaves much to be desired. Crystal’s performance as Eli, stripped of his usual comedic flair, offers a somber portrayal of a grieving widower, but struggles to elevate the thin material.
The series also features a talented ensemble cast, including Judith Light, Rosie Perez, and Maria Dizzia, yet their characters feel underdeveloped and fail to make a significant impact on the storyline. As the mystery surrounding Noah deepens, the show’s attempts at building tension and intrigue often fall flat, relying on clichéd scares and disjointed storytelling.
"Before" ultimately fails to deliver a cohesive and engaging viewing experience, leaving audiences with a sense of missed potential. While Crystal’s performance provides a semblance of emotional depth, the show’s lackluster execution and repetitive storytelling prevent it from standing out in the crowded streaming landscape. Viewers seeking a more captivating and nuanced drama may find more satisfaction in exploring other offerings on Apple TV+, such as "Pachinko."
