Who is the gory horror series starring Billy Crystal and Itzhak Perlman meant for?

In a surprising turn of events, renowned violinist Itzhak Perlman has made a rare venture into the world of acting, taking on a character role in the Apple TV+ series "Before." While Perlman has made numerous appearances as himself, his portrayal of the character Drake, a professor at Columbia University, marks his first scripted character role on screen.

The series, created by Sarah Thorp, revolves around the character Eli Adler, played by Billy Crystal, a widower grappling with grief. Perlman’s character, Drake, makes a brief appearance in the pilot episode as a professor who encounters a child psychiatrist, played by Crystal, dealing with a distressed young patient speaking an unfamiliar language.

Perlman’s presence in the series can be attributed to his friendship with Crystal, who also serves as an executive producer alongside screenwriter Eric Roth. The show boasts a star-studded cast including Crystal, Judith Light, and Perlman, aiming to appeal to a demographic that resonates with the Jewish backgrounds of the actors.

"Before" unfolds in a series of 30-minute episodes, delving into dark and unsettling themes as Crystal’s character navigates hallucinations and disturbing encounters. The plot thickens when a troubled foster child, Noah, played by Jacobi Jupe, enters Eli’s life, prompting a deeper exploration of trauma and grief that may be intertwined with Eli’s own struggles.

While Crystal’s attempt to venture into a psychological thriller with elements of horror is commendable, the show struggles to find its footing with a mismatched tone. Despite the efforts of the supporting cast, including Rosie Perez as Noah’s foster mother, the series falls short of delivering a cohesive and engaging narrative.

Crystal’s departure from his usual comedic roles to explore a darker and more intense character in "Before" showcases his versatility as an actor. However, the show’s execution may not fully resonate with audiences seeking a more profound psychological thriller or a traditional horror experience.

In conclusion, "Before" presents an ambitious effort to blend comedy with psychological horror, anchored by a talented cast led by Billy Crystal. While the series may not hit the mark for all viewers, Crystal’s willingness to explore new creative avenues deserves recognition, even if this particular endeavor falls short of expectations.