Paradise (Hulu) 

By: Rachel Brodeur

Hulu’s Paradise brings emotional impact to the action genre. At first glance, the display thumbnail suggests another special agent drama, but by the end of the first episode, it's clear this series defies expectations, blending crime thriller, action, and even science fiction elements into a high-intensity show. 

Dynamic actor Sterling K. Brown (This is Us, American Fiction), fresh off of his recent 2024 Academy Award nomination, plays elite Secret Service agent Xavier Collins, leading the president’s detail. He is quick thinking, logical and adept at his job. The president is played by familiar face, James Marsden (X-Men, 27 Dresses). Marsden, known for his charismatic likeable characters, brings that same likability but delivers his most nuanced performance, as he has matured beyond simply being a romantic lead.

Show creator Dan Fogelman is no stranger to creating layers in series, as Paradise mimics the nonlinear storytelling of his breakout hit This is Us (2016 - 2022). In Paradise, viewers join the story at a pivotal point in the timeline but then learn about the backstory through compelling flashbacks that reveal details of an underlying mystery. In a series driven by intensity, this technique heightens both the suspense and emotional depth. However, at its core, the show thrives on momentum; do not expect the slow, tearful exchanges of This is Us.

It’s best to go into Paradise free of spoilers. Part of the series' appeal is not knowing if the conflicts will arise with the environment, society, or individuals. Paradise is never what it seems, and viewers should brace for a thrilling ride of unexpected conflicts and gripping reveals 

Rachel’s Rating: 9/10  Paradise (Hulu) elevates the action genre with sharp storytelling, layered characters, and an emotional undercurrent. The flashback structure reveals layers of a riveting mystery involving worst case scenarios faced by a presidency through the lens of a highly-trained Secret Service agent.