As the crisp autumn air settles in, Apple TV+ invites viewers to cozy up with a chilling new psychological thriller that’s sure to send shivers down your spine. “Before”, starring beloved actor Billy Crystal, takes us on a dark journey into the realm of ancient, unknowable horror as a grieving man’s life becomes entangled with that of an unsettling child who sees visions and speaks in tongues.
Crystal Shines in Haunting Role
In “Before”, Billy Crystal sheds his comedic persona to tackle the role of Eli, a man grappling with the recent loss of his wife, Lynn. As he navigates the depths of his grief, Eli encounters Noah, played by the captivating young actor Jacobi Jupe. Noah is no ordinary child; he’s plagued by disturbing visions and has a penchant for appearing on Eli’s doorstep in the dead of night.
Crystal’s portrayal of Eli is a testament to his range as an actor. He brings a raw vulnerability to the character, allowing viewers to empathize with his pain while simultaneously feeling unsettled by the eerie events unfolding around him. It’s a departure from the roles we typically associate with the comedic legend, but one that showcases his depth and versatility.
A Talented Supporting Cast
Alongside Crystal and Jupe, “Before” features a talented ensemble cast that breathes life into the haunting tale. Robert Townsend appears as a laid-back academic who offers Eli cryptic advice, while Sakina Jaffrey portrays an understanding colleague. Julia Chan rounds out the cast as Eli’s therapist, delivering exposition that hints at the protagonist’s long history of helping troubled children.
Why are you playing down what you do? You’ve had such a long and successful career helping troubled kids!
Julia Chan as “Therapist” in Before
While the supporting characters help to flesh out Eli’s world, the heart of the story lies in the enigmatic interactions between Eli and Noah. As Eli presents the boy with significant objects, hoping to unlock the secrets of his visions, viewers are drawn deeper into the mystery that binds these two troubled souls together.
The Power of the Unknown
One of the most compelling aspects of “Before” is its embrace of the unknown. The series revels in the unsettling ambiguity of Noah’s visions and the ancient horror that seems to connect him to Eli. Rather than offering easy answers, the show invites viewers to immerse themselves in the eerie atmosphere and slowly unravel the mysteries alongside the characters.
This approach may not appeal to everyone, particularly those who prefer their horror stories to be neatly resolved by the final credits. However, for those willing to embrace the unease and let their imaginations run wild, “Before” delivers a spine-tingling experience that lingers long after each episode ends.
Apple TV+’s Growing Lineup
“Before” is the latest in a string of high-profile releases from Apple TV+, which has been steadily building its roster of original content. The streaming service has attracted top talent both in front of and behind the camera, with actors like Crystal not only starring in but also executive producing their own projects.
As Apple TV+ continues to expand its offerings, it will be interesting to see what other genre-bending series and films the platform has in store. With its commitment to quality storytelling and its ability to lure Hollywood heavyweights, the future looks bright for the streaming newcomer.
A Must-Watch for Horror Fans
For fans of psychological thrillers and supernatural horror, “Before” is a must-watch. The series masterfully crafts an atmosphere of dread, drawing viewers into a world where the lines between reality and nightmarish visions blur. With Billy Crystal delivering a haunting performance and young Jacobi Jupe holding his own as the unsettling Noah, the show is a showcase of acting prowess.
As the story unfolds over ten episodic chapters, “Before” promises to keep audiences guessing, gasping, and eager for more. So dim the lights, grab a cozy blanket, and prepare to be thoroughly spooked by this gripping new addition to the Apple TV+ lineup. Just be warned: you may never look at Billy Crystal the same way again.
