Under the Banner of Heaven – Limited Series [2022]

Within a true-crime framework, Under the Banner of Heaven highlights the dangerously thin line between scriptural literalism and messianic delusions. In a very scary way.

Getting one thing out of the door, Andrew Garfield is amazing as Detective Jeb Pyre. Not that he needs my opinion. Between tick, tick…BOOM! and Spider-Man: No Way Home, to name a few, he’s having a wonderful year. Garfield is the beating heart of the show, but the entire ensemble breaks out of expected roles to place the show among the top miniseries of the year.

Based on a book of the same name, the true crime limited series was adapted, written, and created by Dustin Lance Black. He even directed one of the episodes. Black assembles an outstanding cast and a roster of fine directors and succeeds in making the seven-part limited series more than just an especially riveting crime story.

Enlightening and harrowing, the show doesn’t flinch away from the darkest and strangest corners of religious fundamentalism as it searches for justice in the supposed promised land. And while the subject matter may seem specific, it is surprisingly universal and even timely in its takedown of a social structure that demands women accept their status as property.

Just look at republicans in USA, and basically the whole group of countries in the middle east.

Should you watch it?

FX’s show is an elegant and even topical adaptation that dares to ask big questions. What’s the place of religion in life, marriage, and government? A definitive must see thanks to the amazing writing and cast lead by Andrew Garfield.

Where can I watch it?

You can stream Under the Banner of Heaven exclusively on Hulu in USA and on Disney+ everywhere else.