‘Cape Fear’ series review: Javier Bardem’s last-act scenery chewing cannot save this frustrating reboot
A critical review of the new 'Cape Fear' television series, which stars Javier Bardem and Amy Adams. The reviewer argues that despite the high-profile cast, the show suffers from poor writing, plot holes, and a lack of tension.
Why it matters
It provides consumer guidance on a major media release and critiques the adaptation of classic intellectual property.
From J. Lee Thompson’s Cape Fear in 1962 and Martin Scorsese ’s version of John D. MacDonald’s 1957 novel, The Executioners in 1991, to the recently concluded series, the story of a man defending his family has been updated to reflect the current worries of the time.
Also, considering that the lawyer Sam Bowden in the 1962 film was played by stalwart actor, Gregory Peck, known for his straight back, it effectively ruled out anything sketchy from the man who was to play Atticus Finch only six months later in To Kill a Mockingbird . On the other hand, Robert Mitchum delivered a charmingly sinister performance as the sadistic Max Cady, terrorising Bowden and his family for putting him in prison.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in