On January 26, 2025, Hulu launched its new thriller series, "Paradise," which has quickly become the topic of conversation among audiences and critics alike. The show stars the talented Sterling K. Brown, known for his poignant performances, and was created by Dan Fogelman, the mastermind behind the acclaimed hit "This Is Us." With its engaging narrative infused with suspense and emotion, "Paradise" presents itself as both refreshing and thrilling.
At the center of the series is the murder of President Cal Bradford, portrayed by James Marsden, prompting Secret Service agent Xavier Collins, played by Brown, to navigate through layers of conspiracy and deceit. The story begins with Collins, whose life is upended by the loss of Bradford, as he grapples with not only the investigation but also his role as a single father to two kids amid the chaos.
"Paradise" is more than just another murder mystery; it presents itself as a social experiment set within the confines of the fictional town of Paradise. This utopian locale, reminiscent of Southern California, is characterized by its futuristic features, including high-tech wristbands replacing traditional wallets and keys, and the absence of firearms, even among law enforcement. The community has its secrets, and the narrative invites viewers to explore these hidden layers alongside Collins.
The storytelling technique is noteworthy, combining present-day investigations with flashbacks, which reveal the characters' pasts and motivations, adding depth to their current predicaments. Brown's portrayal of Collins is particularly compelling, as he infuses his character with warmth and complexity. "This Is Us" fans will recognize shades of racial discourse woven through his character’s arc, providing insightful commentary within the thriller framework.
Variety noted, "Paradise can seem oddly unconcerned with the details of its eponymous social experiment, at least compared with the residents' personal histories and emotional lives." This perspective highlights Fogelman’s preference for character exploration over expansive world-building, emphasizing the impact of grief, identity, and interpersonal relationships amid the gripping mystery.
The show features more than just Brown and Marsden; Julianne Nicholson joins the cast as Samantha Redmond, the politically influential patron whose multifaceted presence adds another layer of intrigue to the narrative. A tech billionaire nicknamed “Sinatra” for her audacious confidence, Redmond juggles the demands of leadership with family life—something audiences see from the mundane to the menacing, particularly when Nicholson skillfully navigates her character’s darker turns.
"Watching Hulu’s new thriller Paradise is a bit like eating a hot fudge sundae served on top of a chocolate cake: It’s a little messy and almost too much at times... but hard to deny it’s pretty damn delicious," remarked Dave Nemetz from TVLine.com. This analogy aptly describes the show's ambitious yet layered narrative, where not all elements fit perfectly, yet the overall enjoyment remains intact—a feast for viewers hungry for intriguing plots.
While the premise presents Collins at the helm trying to solve the murder, there's also significant character drama at play. Collins’s fellow agents, Billy and Jane, are portrayed as preoccupied with their own romantic entanglements, reflecting the human condition’s flawed nature even amid dire circumstances. Variety captures this sentiment well, noting, "Xavier’s fellow agents seem more worried about covering up their workplace flirtation than figuring out who killed their boss." Such dynamics offer comic relief and stress the fragile state of relationships within high-stakes environments.
With eight episodes slated for this season, the anticipation among fans is palpable. Critics didn’t receive the finale for review, leaving much speculation as to how the myriad plots and character arcs will converge. For now, the series maintains momentum as viewers remain hooked by the steady unraveling of its mysteries, posing questions about the very fabric of Paradise and its inhabitants.
Despite being set within this speculative vision, "Paradise" hinges on its characters, creating engaging arcs and interactions—pushing viewers to care about what happens next. The blend of action, humor, and emotional moments makes it stand out, promising excitement and depth for those seeking more than just surface thrills.
To experience the suspense of "Paradise," tune in to Hulu, where episodes will be released weekly on Tuesdays after the initial binge of the first three episodes. Be prepared for twists and turns, as this series is destined to keep its audience entertained and guessing long after the credits roll.