Bloodline-the Netflix Psychological Thriller

 

So if you’re here because you’ve read some of my books, you probably know I go for psychological thrillers. Last year, Netflix debuted Bloodline, starring Kyle Chandler, Ben Mendelsohn, Linda Cardellini, Sissy Spacek, Norbert Leo Butz, Owen Teague and Enrique Murciano.

With a cast like that, you can’t go wrong and Bloodline doesn’t. Season one reminded me a bit of Breaking Bad. Kind of hard to explain without giving away spoilers, but both series started with a flashback that intrigued. Events build slowly in both first seasons but then escalate towards the end.

 

Scene from season two. (NSFW-swearing)

 

But, I’m not here to compare the shows or even to talk about the first season of Bloodline. I just wrapped up a three-day mini binge of Season Two of Bloodline.

No spoilers, but here are some things I felt as I watched. My heart was pounding practically the whole way through. I think maybe they should issue a warning about that. You know, like they do for roller coasters? “If you have a history of heart problems…” 😉

 

Whereas last season was a slow burn through the first 8 episodes or so, this one burst out of the gate at a flat out sprint and never let up. Relentless and riveting,  it was akin to watching a trainwreck in slow motion. You want to cover your eyes but can’t help peeking out between your fingers. There is no possible way things can end well, and yet…you keep hoping for a miracle.

 

Every single actor nailed their parts. I think they should just fling Emmys at all of them and be done with it this year, but special mention, and I’m not just saying this because I’m a huge fan, but Kyle Chandler just…wow. I don’t want to give spoilers, but there’s a scene in episode seven between his character, John, and his wife, Diana. I think he says one word in the entire scene, and it wasn’t even anything major.  But he didn’t have to say anything. Looking at him, I’d say he was feeling dread, guilt, nausea, and incredible fear. Fear for his relationship, his children, his family and himself. I think he felt those things because that is what I felt watching the scene.

 

Whew. This show had better return for a third season. You hear me, Netflix? Or I may have to go all Rayburn on you….;)