“Patrick Dempsey Returns in Fox’s New Series ‘Memory of a Killer’ Review”
Patrick Dempsey makes a notable return to television in Fox’s new thriller series, “Memory of a Killer.” With its blend of action and psychological depth, this show aims to captivate audiences. However, initial reviews suggest that it may not leave a lasting impact.
Overview of “Memory of a Killer”
“Memory of a Killer” premiered with a two-night event starting January 25, following the NFC Championship Game, and continues Mondays at 9 ET/PT from January 26. The series explores themes of memory, aging, and the duality of a life straddled between crime and family.
Plot Summary
Dempsey stars as Angelo, a hired hitman balancing his life between organized crime in New York City and a domestic existence in the suburbs. He works for an amicable yet fearsome mob associate, Dutch, portrayed by Michael Imperioli. While in the city, Angelo is a professional killer; at home, he presents as a devoted father to his pregnant daughter and husband.
- Character: Angelo, a hitman.
- Mob Associate: Dutch, played by Michael Imperioli.
- Family: Pregnant daughter (Odeya Rush) and son-in-law (Daniel David Stewart).
As chaos from both sides of his life collide, Angelo grapples with memory loss, raising questions about the impact of aging on his violent profession.
Style and Themes
“Memory of a Killer” distinguishes itself by taking on deeper themes than typical procedural dramas. The series focuses on the poignant struggles of its lead character while incorporating thrilling elements often seen in action dramas.
Despite its ambition, early critiques indicate that some scenes may seem tedious, particularly those depicting Angelo’s home life. The contrasting elements of crime and family may not connect cohesively, making parts of the narrative feel lackluster.
Inspiration and Adaptation
This series is based on “De Zaak Alzheimer (The Alzheimer Case)” by Belgian author Jef Geeraerts. The novel has previously been adapted into a Belgian film in 2003 and a 2022 American movie featuring Liam Neeson. However, “Memory of a Killer” opts for a different narrative approach, leaning into character studies over straightforward thrillers.
Performance and Future Prospects
Dempsey brings his characteristic charm and intensity to the role, suggesting potential for character development throughout the season. His performance, alongside Imperioli, provides moments that elevate the show’s appeal and may encourage viewers to continue watching.
The pilot episodes hint at intrigue and complexity, but only time will tell if it evolves into a compelling series worth remembering. As Dempsey takes on a role that diverges from his previous heartthrob characters, “Memory of a Killer” could mark a significant chapter in his acting career.
