Banshee is pure, unfiltered pulp crime drama — and one of the most entertaining shows ever made. The series follows an unnamed ex-con (Anthony Starr) who assumes the identity of a murdered sheriff in the small Pennsylvania town of Banshee, then uses his new position to continue his criminal activities while pursuing his former lover and her crime-lord father.
The concept is absurd, and the show knows it. Rather than pretending to be prestige television, Banshee embraces its comic-book sensibility with extraordinary fight choreography, over-the-top violence, and performances that treat every line with deadly seriousness. It's Shakespeare for the action-crowd, delivered at a breathless pace.
Starr's Lucas Hood is a force of nature — a man of few words and devastating fists. The fight scenes are among the best ever produced for television, choreographed by a team of martial artists and stunt performers. Each season raises the stakes, introducing new adversaries who push Hood to his physical and emotional limits.
The supporting cast is excellent. Ivana Milicevic as Carrie Hopewell, the former love who has built a new life, provides the emotional anchor. Ulrich Thomsen as Kai Proctor, the Amish crime lord, is a villain of surprising depth and dignity. Hoon Lee as Job, the hacker and loyal ally, provides the show's wit and heart.
Banshee is essential viewing for anyone who loves crime drama at its most visceral. It's a show that knows exactly what it is and delivers it with maximum impact.