Billy Crystal’s Quirky Psychological Thriller "Before" Strikes a Hilariously Unintentional Tone

Billy Crystal, known for his comedic talents, has made a return to television as the executive producer and star of the Apple TV+ thriller "Before." Crystal’s absence from the small screen since 2015, following the cancellation of his showbiz satire "The Comedians," has made his comeback in "Before" quite the event.

The series, created by Sarah Thorp, fails to meet expectations despite the anticipation surrounding its premiere on October 25. "Before" is criticized for its lack of emotional depth and repetitive storyline spread across 10 episodes. The psychological thriller falls short in delivering both psychological insights and thrills, with clichéd dialogue and stiff acting contributing to its lackluster reception.

The plot of "Before" centers around Dr. Eli Adler, played by Crystal, a child psychiatrist grappling with the loss of his wife. When a mysterious boy named Noah enters his life, strange occurrences unfold, hinting at a deeper connection between the two characters. As Eli tries to help Noah, the show delves into themes of trauma and supernatural elements, creating a narrative that fails to engage viewers effectively.

Despite a quality cast, including Rosie Perez and Judith Light, the series struggles to develop its characters beyond superficial traits. The lack of depth in character backgrounds and the reliance on clichés detract from the overall impact of the storytelling. As Eli and his colleagues navigate through a series of bizarre events, the plot fails to provide a coherent and engaging narrative, leaving viewers with a sense of disappointment.

Apple TV’s approach to original content, characterized by giving A-listers creative freedom, has yielded mixed results. While some projects, like the tech thriller "Severance," have been successful, others, such as "Before," have fallen short of expectations. The streaming platform’s willingness to invest in talent is commendable, but the need for more rigorous vetting of ideas attached to high-profile names is evident.

In conclusion, "Before" represents a missed opportunity to deliver a compelling and engaging thriller, despite the talent involved. The series’ failure to explore its characters and themes in depth highlights the challenges of creating impactful storytelling in the competitive streaming landscape.