Samuel R. Murrian

So long as you're not expecting iron-clad faithfulness to the enduring, admittedly superior and nearly 250-year-old novel, The Seduction will easily ensnare you as a handsomely appointed, inspired creation all its own.

The property that Monster of Florence most clearly evokes is David Fincher's time-spanning period masterpiece Zodiac, which was clearly an influence. Though this Netflix true crime miniseries doesn't reach those same heights (admittedly, not many crime films or series have), it's often remarkable, lingering long after the final episode is over.

It's edgy, funny, and fresh, but what really makes it work is a combination of strong craftsmanship and narrative discipline that evokes every television show that has successfully stood the test of time.

Sadly, the execution lacks impetus and personality, resulting in Hotel Costiera being a surprisingly unremarkable destination.

It's urgent escapism, and the first three episodes suggest the series will become more psychologically and narratively complex as it goes along. If you've never watched a K-drama and are curious to dip a toe into the genre, it's hard to imagine a more perfect place to start than this.

The Terminal List: Dark Wolf has no interest in reinventing the wheel or really being particularly innovative beyond its exemplary craftsmanship, and it's easy to get caught up in admiration for a show that takes this much pride in presenting the kind of old-school action entertainment that feels increasingly rare these days.

Long Story Short is an uncommonly entertaining and inventive dramedy that feels like a pure memoir even as it weaves in and out of the outlandish. It's a sturdy foundation of considerable depth.

It's surprising and disappointing in equal measure to announce that the show is such a muted and limp affair that none of the characters or performances really ultimately amount to much.

The storyline concerning the company could have delved deeper into satire, but it's not as compelling as the admittedly very memorable youths. Still, this captivating, character-driven surprise is easily one of the most purely entertaining series of the summer so far.

The Waterfront is the mercilessly entertaining flex of a showrunner who knows exactly what he's doing.