What's happened
HBO's new crime drama miniseries Task, starring Mark Ruffalo, premiered on September 7 in the US and September 8 in the UK. Set in Philadelphia suburbs, it follows an FBI agent leading a task force to stop violent robberies. The seven-episode series airs weekly on HBO and Sky Atlantic, featuring a notable ensemble cast and created by the writer of Mare of Easttown.
What's behind the headline?
Task's Position in Contemporary Crime Drama
Task continues HBO's successful formula of gritty, character-driven crime dramas set in American suburbs, following the acclaim of Mare of Easttown. Mark Ruffalo's casting brings star power and familiarity, likely attracting viewers who appreciate nuanced portrayals of law enforcement and community struggles.
Narrative and Thematic Depth
The series explores complex themes such as fatherhood, guilt, and broken dreams, adding emotional layers beyond procedural crime elements. This approach aligns with current audience preferences for character-rich storytelling over formulaic crime plots.
Strategic Release and Audience Engagement
By airing simultaneously on HBO in the US and Sky Atlantic in the UK, Task leverages transatlantic appeal, catering to audiences on both sides of the pond. Weekly releases maintain engagement and discussion, contrasting with binge-release models.
Cast and Creative Team
The ensemble cast, including Tom Pelphrey and Emilia Jones, supports Ruffalo's lead, enhancing the show's depth. Brad Inglesby's involvement assures continuity in quality and tone, building on his previous success.
Forecast
Task will likely sustain strong viewership due to its pedigree and thematic resonance. Its focus on working-class settings and moral complexity positions it well for critical acclaim and audience loyalty, potentially influencing future crime dramas to blend procedural elements with intimate character studies.
What the papers say
The Scotsman provides detailed coverage of Task's cast and broadcast schedule, noting Mark Ruffalo's lead role and the show's weekly release on HBO and Sky Atlantic. They highlight the show's setting in Philadelphia suburbs and its seven-episode format, linking it to Mare of Easttown's success. The NY Post emphasizes the thematic exploration of fatherhood and guilt, describing the central conflict between Ruffalo's FBI agent and a family man leading robberies. Both sources underscore Brad Inglesby's role as creator, reinforcing the show's pedigree. This combination of production details and thematic insight offers a comprehensive view of Task's place in contemporary television crime drama.
How we got here
Task is a seven-episode HBO crime drama miniseries created by Brad Inglesby, who also wrote Mare of Easttown. It stars Mark Ruffalo as an FBI agent tackling a string of violent robberies in Philadelphia suburbs. The show debuted in early September 2025 on HBO in the US and Sky Atlantic in the UK, continuing a tradition of acclaimed crime dramas set in working-class American communities.
Go deeper
- Who else stars alongside Mark Ruffalo in Task?
- What themes does Task explore beyond crime?
- When will the full series of Task be available?
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