Before stepping behind the camera to direct next year’s highly anticipated “Scream 7,” iconic writer Kevin Williamson brings his creative mind to Netflix as showrunner of the new series “The Waterfront.” Directors on the show’s episodes include Erica Dunton, Liz Friedlander, and Marcos Siega. The writers include Williamson, Katelyn Crabb, and Lloyd Gilyard Jr.
Based on actual events, “The Waterfront” occurs in coastal North Carolina, where the Buckley family has maintained significant power in Havenport for many years and gained control over multiple local industries, such as fishing and dining establishments.
The fishing empire faces significant challenges as the family patriarch, Harlan Buckley (portrayed by Holt McCallany), recovers from two heart attacks. During his absence, his wife Belle (Maria Bello) and son Cane (Jake Weary) strive to keep the family businesses afloat, but their efforts quickly descend into chaos and dangerous situations. Cane tries to maintain his marriage to Peyton (Danielle Campbell), but their relationship encounters complications when his ex-girlfriend Jenna (Humberly González) returns to town. Meanwhile, Belle must fend off the advances of a potential new suitor, Wes (Dave Annable).
Harlan retakes command to bring back stability to their situation. Their daughter Bree (Melissa Benoist) faces recovery challenges from addiction while dealing with losing custody of her son Diller (Brady Hepner). Her complex romantic entanglement presents a substantial risk to the stability of the family.
Growing up in the late nineties, whether it was horror films or teen angst drama, Williamson’s name always drew attention from me. While Williamson has had his share of hits and misses, I still try to support him as much as I can. From the first episode, I have been hooked on the series.
Holt McCallany carries the show’s weight, giving his character a country boy bravado with an alpha male persona. Harlan wants the best for his family and will go to any lengths to get it. The always radiant Maria Bello is also present, while Melissa Benoist and Jake Weary shine while juggling the nuances required of characters dealing with the sins of the past.
From a supporting standpoint, it is surprising to Rafael L. Silva in the role of a bartender at the family restaurant. While fresh off his performance in last winter’s thriller “Flight Risk,” Topher Grace pops up in the second half of the season in a scene-stealing performance. If there was one character I wanted to see more of, it was Danielle Campbell as Peyton Buckley. There are flourishes here and there, but she came off as more of a trophy wife.
Nevertheless, “The Waterfront” is worth the stream because it combines family drama, solid acting, and twists.
Final Grade: B+
“The Waterfront” is now available to stream on Netflix.
