In the Dark

In the Dark is an engaging drama and comedy series that first aired on The CW in 2019. Created by Corinne Kingsbury, and featuring a compelling ensemble cast led by Perry Mattfeld, the show is an exciting blend of suspense, humor, and character-driven storytelling. Rich Sommer, Brooke Markham, Casey Deidrick, Kathleen York, Keston John, and Aiza Ntibarikure also notably feature alongside Mattfeld, bringing dynamic performances that command attention.

The prominent lead is Perry Mattfeld, who breathes life into the role of Murphy Mason – a complex, flawed and free-spirited young woman who happens to be blind. Murphy's world consists of two constants, her loyal guide dog, Pretzel, and her best friend, Jess, played by Brooke Markham. Jess is the owner of their shared apartment and works as a guide dog trainer – a job that becomes a pivotal plot element as the series unfolds.

Another central character is Dean Riley, portrayed by Rich Sommer – a well-intentioned, but conflicted police detective, whose life intersects with Murphy's in unexpected ways. Dean’s complicated relationship with Murphy evolves significantly over the series, bringing to the forefront an interesting dynamic.

Kathleen York and Morgan Krantz play the roles of Murphy's self-absorbed mother Joy and the nerdy and awkward Felix Bell, respectively. Each brings their unique brand of humor and depth of character to the show, contributing significantly to the success of the series.

Further driving the plot is Casey Deidrick as Max Parish. Max's charm, mystery, and romance with Murphy add another dimension to the show, keeping audiences hooked to their screens. Keston John plays the role of Darnell James – the owner of a dangerous Chicago street gang, whose character also sees a considerable amount of development and complexity as the story unfolds.

Aiza Ntibarikure plays the fiery and undeterred character of Vanessa "Ness" Lima, a character who embarks on a gripping journey of self-discovery throughout the series, contributing significantly to the show's compelling narrative.

"In the Dark" is not just about Murphy's blindness but about her journey towards finding herself and her place in the world. The storytelling is bold, and the narrative continually throws curveballs at the audience, keeping them on the edge of their seats. The series goes beyond the classic crime thriller, offering an intricate exploration of how friendships, relationships, and personal demons can influence individual choices and life paths.

The writing stands out, carefully peppered with bits of humor that are gritty, genuine, and gives the show a unique flair. The series drifts comfortably between its comedic elements and its thrilling suspense, resulting in a piece of work that is delightfully unpredictable, captivating, and heartwarming in turn.

Furthermore, the series has a distinct edge in exploring the life of someone with visual impairment. But this is not done in a condescending or superficial way. We see Murphy as a normal woman with desires, ambitions, fears, and flaws. The portrayal of blindness is neither her defining characteristic nor an afterthought but deeply integrated into the fabric of her being, her lifestyle, and her choices.

Another strong point of the series is the development of its characters. Characters in "In the Dark" are given depth, complexity, and room to grow, ensuring that audiences can form a connection with them. Each member of the cast brings life to their roles, blending humor and intensity with a natural ease that is truly engaging.

Ultimately, In the Dark is a brilliantly written, excellently performed, and intelligently directed series. It challenges stereotypes and pushes the envelope on many fronts. The show is remarkably unpredictable, refreshingly authentic, and offers a well-balanced mix of comedy, drama, romance, and suspense. It's a series that warrants being on your watchlist. Its intense portrayal of love, friendship, personal triumphs, and the human spirit's resilience leaves a lasting impression on its viewers.