Apple TV is debuting a new crime thriller series called Nocturne tonight, and early reviews paint it as a binge-worthy hit. The series features Liev Schreiber as Philly homicide detective Jonah Lynn, Zazie Beetz, and Stephen Graham playing the villainous serial killer Jurek Walter—a role that’s already drawing attention for its chilling intensity. Major outlets are already calling the show “impossible to stop watching.”
What Nocturne Is About
Nocturne follows Jonah Lynn, an ex-military detective who leaves behind the grim urban streets of Philadelphia for what he hopes will be a quieter life in a small town in western Pennsylvania. But peace is short-lived. When the ruthless serial killer Jurek Walter begins picking off people and threatening Jonah’s family, the tension escalates rapidly. Jonah risks everything when his FBI agent surrogate daughter, Saga Bauer (played by Zazie Beetz), is compelled to confront Jurek directly. The show is based on “Lazarus” and “The Sandman,” bestsellers by Lars Kepler.
Critical Response & Release Pattern
Critics are largely praising the series, especially Stephen Graham’s turn as the villain. Some compare his performance to classic killers in the genre, noting his portrayal of Walter as both unnervingly calm and devastatingly sharp. A few reviews mention that the pacing in the early episodes feels slow, but most agree that the tension builds into something addictive. The consensus: once it gets going, you won’t be pressing pause.
The first two episodes of Nocturne launch tonight, with new episodes rolling out weekly until December 25. The series begins airing at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT.
Subscription & Pricing: Apple TV is available for $14.99/month, with discounts offered via the Apple One bundle.
Main Cast: Liev Schreiber, Zazie Beetz, Stephen Graham.
Source Material: Based on Lars Kepler’s bestselling novels Lazarus and The Sandman.
This is Apple TV’s latest foray into atmospheric crime dramas, joining offerings that aim to combine cinematic ambition with narrative grit. It follows a trend among streaming services leaning into serialized thrillers with character-driven stories and morally ambiguous villains.
Nocturne isn’t just another crime series—it’s shaping up to be a benchmark in tension and performance. With its compelling lead high point, a story built for escalation, and a release structure that keeps audiences on the hook, this could be one of Apple TV’s most talked-about shows this season. If you’re into psychological thrills, dark mysteries, or just want a show that holds your attention, this one’s hard to miss.
