'Too Close': New AMC Series Is Not Quite Close Enough
AMC drama Too Close - now streaming on the cable network's premium service AMC+ - packs a lot into its three episodes, and while much of its story is intriguing, the series is disappointing overall. It’s based on the novel of the same name, by Natalie Daniels, the pen name of the series’ writer, Ciara Salaman, and directed by Susan Tully (Line of Duty). A series with an all-woman creative team and two exceptionally strong female leads in co-stars Emily Watson and Denise Gough feels like it ought to be a slam dunk--so why doesn't it work? The series could have been a powerful statement about women's lives, but it misses the mark.
The first episode was powerful, riveting stuff. Forensic psychologist Emma (Watson) has been assigned to evaluate Connie (Gough), a woman who has committed an unspeakable and inexplicable crime and is now in a secure hospital. We know she committed the crime; but what led her there? She’s suffering from amnesia, which may be faked, and Emma’s findings will determine whether she is fit to stand trial.
Emma, we learn, has suffered a tragedy recently, and this is her return to work. Clearly, this is a case she should never have taken on.
