Search
Picture of Derrick Dunn

Derrick Dunn

Colman Domingo continues to excel as a thespian in the engaging series, “The Madness”

Colman Domingo, an Academy Award nominee, is experiencing a noteworthy year as he collaborates once again with Netflix to lead the limited series “The Madness.” Stephen Belber is the showrunner for this production, which centers on Muncie Daniels (portrayed by Domingo), a media pundit who must clear his name after inadvertently discovering a murder in the depths of the Poconos woods.

To navigate this crisis, he is required to reestablish connections with lost opportunities and reconcile with his estranged family, which includes his wife Elena (played by Marsha Stephanie Blake), his teenage son Demetrius (Thaddeus J. Mixson), and his adult daughter Kallie (Gabrielle Graham) from a prior relationship.

The show starts fast and furious and plunges you into the quaint, almost abysmal setting of the Poconos. It’s Domingo’s masterclass performance that brings Muncie to life. He’s a cross between a self-assured media mogul and a profoundly flawed man who can’t stand his once-loved values anymore. His struggles and the guilt he’s holding are tangible, with the audience experiencing his struggle and grit as he fights for his life and a reconciliation with his family

The supporting cast all deliver great performances. In addition to the previously mentioned talents, Deon Cole, John Oritz, Tamsin Topolski, and the legendary Stephen McKinley Henderson enrich the narrative, each character adding depth and intrigue to Muncie’s tumultuous journey.

But what makes “The Madness” a standout book is the fine prose, which chimes with the media’s influence over the public’s image and the precariousness of innocence in a scandal-driven world. The twists are surprising and satisfying, luring the audience into Muncie’s world and leaving them questioning how they read news and media.

The shows timing is another interesting feature; it makes you stay on the edge of your seat but does not feel rushed. It’s a story that builds tension with each episode, and then just when you think you know what you’re doing, the script shifts to allow you to revise everything you thought you knew. But some may find the show’s flurry of heavy-hitting themes — identity, morality, family love — too much. Nonetheless, the moments of humor and reflection are handled so well that it doesn’t take too long to get dark.

“The Madness” is an engaging experience that facilitates meaningful discussions about truth, sensationalism, and our connections. Colman Domingo presents this thought-provoking vignette with a poignant and powerful touch. Viewers will reflect on life and their choices as the credits roll at the final episode’s end.

“The Madness” is a must-watch series for those who like a solid thriller that is not just entertainment but also a celebration of the mess we live in and, most importantly, the messiness of our humanity.

Final Grade: B+

“The Madness” is available to stream on Netflix this Thursday.

Movie Clappers

More reviews to explorer

Slow Jam Saturday : Chauncey Black, “Everyday Is Your Birthday”

This week’s Slow Jam Saturday pick takes us back to 2008 to show some love to Chauncey Hannibal, a member of Blackstreet, and his solo track “Everyday Is Your Birthday.” Chauncey’s vocals were featured prominently on the group’s first four albums until he began his solo career in 2005. He initially signed with Flipmode Entertainment, and “Everyday Is Your Birthday” was the first single from his project titled “Church Boy,” although the actual album was never released.

Second Listen Sunday: Brooke Valentine, “Chain Letter”

As my loyal readers know, one of my passions during my Air Force enlistment was being a DJ. Since I was stationed in the UK, it was sometimes hard to keep up with the music scene, as there was no satellite radio, the club scene rarely showcased new music, and I missed out on shows like 106 & Park. Often, I would buy new CDs based solely on their covers and find a way to incorporate the music into my sets, particularly if the artist caught my attention. One such artist was Brooke Valentine, who is this week’s pick for Second Listen Sunday.

Second Listen Sunday : Akon, Konvicted

Since my wife’s favorite solo artist, Ne-Yo, is currently on tour, I decided to show some love to Akon this week for Second Listen Sunday by focusing on his second album, “Konvicted.” I first discovered Akon in the fall of 2004 when I made my DJ debut while stationed in the UK. During my warm-up set, I played “Locked Up,” and one of the bouncers came over, handed me a pound, and said it was about time someone played that song.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn