Hijack

Yep, it's exactly what you think it is — a seven-part series about a plane hijacking. The show drags on endlessly, with Idris Elba really showcasing his acting chops only towards the end. The finale is actually why I stuck it out. The beginning sets up the scenario so you get the gist of what's happening. The middle is mostly filler, but the last two episodes are packed with tension. If the whole series had been like those final episodes, I'd be satisfied. As it stands, it's just average. (01/17/2024)

Apple's carnival continues! Apple currently reigns supreme and has already surpassed Netflix in terms of quality. After this year's awesome Silo, there's another big hit that is unrivalled in the Breathless Thriller category this year. It reminded me a lot of the British miniseries Bodyguard, which is very similar to Hijack in certain aspects. I'm glad Idris Elba finally has a decent role tailored for him and isn't starring in another flop. Hijack benefits from an appealing theme where hijackers take over a plane, and Idris Elba, a negotiator, happens to be on board to try to disrupt the plan. Almost until the end, we have no idea what purpose the hijackers have and what's at stake, which is fine. The viewer is left to guess and make up all sorts of variations. The series has very good pacing, likeable characters, well built-up tension, lots of cool and intelligent ideas, and both the line on the plane and the line on the ground where the ministers are dealing with this whole situation work well. The finale is very satisfying all round, twist upon twist, the very purpose of the hijacking is perfectly plotted and the suspense had me slowly squirming (the emotions work too). This series took me by the balls a lot and is very addictive. It is definitely interesting that the entire series takes place in real time, a 6 hour flight. 9/10. (08/04/2023)