National Treasure (2017)

National Treasure, on a narrative level, has the complexity of a “Law and Order” episode, but that’s not meant that as an insult; in fact, the way events roll out simply makes the journey from celebration to accusation to dismay all the more impactful.

A marvelously acted piece. If the subject matter sounds grim, it is, but the production is exciting: well-acted, suspenseful, and moving.

National Treasure is a beautifully drawn portrait of ugliness, impeccably written and acted, yet painful to absorb.

The strength of the show is primarily in its lead actors, all four of whom offer enthralling performances.

Be assured that National Treasure (rated TV-MA, mainly for its subject matter) pays off in every way a British crime drama can pay off. Plus, accents are unusually easy on the American ear.

By unfolding largely from Paul's perspective, the storytelling is inordinately good at keeping the audience guessing about what to believe.

The ending is satisfying without betraying the nuanced writing and characterization that came before.

It’s not quick or easy to watch. It’s also not easy to forget.

There's an obvious familiarity to the subject matter, but with National Treasure, Thorne never makes it seem rote, boring or insignificant.

Coltrane, Waters and Riseborough are brilliant in this compelling drama.

National Treasure can feel moody to a fault, and there are times, as in the climactic courtroom scenes, when the drama gets a little... dramatic. (Attorneys who should object keep mum for the sake of the monologue.) But it also does capture an awful sense of isolation in close quarters, the sadness of lives that never quite align. And there’s plenty to chew on from beginning to the end.

As it progresses and its narrative deepens, viewers are left with plenty of substantive matters to ponder, especially after its conclusion.

Thanks in part to a uniformly phenomenal cast, it makes intelligent and unsentimental observations about the costs of fame and the routine concessions made to celebrity.

Though fictionalized, National Treasure often feels like an intimate portrayal of true crimes. Coltrane is perfectly cast as the larger-than-life Finchley, who is beloved for his comedy and charm.

It’s a strong, challenging drama with great performances.