At this point, there is no need to justify why you should have Apple TV+. Tim Cook’s streaming platform is one of the best today, and to realize this you just have to take a look at the quality of its series. It’s not just that they invest in great actors and spend a fortune on each production, but the quality of their scripts and stories fully matches this investment.
Undoubtedly, if you are a fan of science fiction, Apple TV+ is the best place you can turn to. But not only that: in the VOD service there is room for all kinds of genres and formats, and it also features hidden performances by top Hollywood actors. This is the case of Jason Momoa with the surprising See, and also Samuel L. Jackson with the impressive The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey.
That’s right, Quentin Tarantino’s favorite actor, who has become more popular in recent years for portraying the unstoppable Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, is the main character of a miniseries that, despite generating some excitement at the time, has gone somewhat unnoticed among the extensive catalog of Apple TV+.
Launched in 2022, The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey is one of the biggest bets in the platform’s history, and also one of the best stories you can find there. Without a doubt, Samuel L. Jackson delivers one of the best performances of his career, but this is not the only reason why you should give it a chance.
Samuel L. Jackson’s most challenging performance
The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey emerges as a moving miniseries that captures the soul of a protagonist in his final days. From the beginning, we witness the life of Ptolemy, an elderly man who clings to fragments of his memory as he delves into the dark corners of dementia. Samuel L. Jackson, as we say, shines in his portrayal of Ptolemy with a depth and authenticity that transcends the screen. He immerses us in his pain, his loneliness, and his struggle to find meaning in a blurry and blurred world, in a way that few films have achieved before.
The series, based on Walter Mosley’s novel of the same name, is an emotional journey that delves into the deepest layers of the human being. Through meticulously woven flashbacks, we explore the key moments of Ptolemy’s life, from his lost love to the traumas of his childhood in a racist and slaveholding environment in the southern United States. These moments not only add depth to the character, but also offer a powerful reflection on memory, identity, and resilience.
Beyond Jackson, the fascinating performance of Dominique Fishback as Robyn brings a palpable authenticity to her character. The chemistry between Jackson and Fishback is particularly remarkable, creating a genuine connection that transcends generational and emotional barriers.
Beyond the cast, the masterful direction of the series, along with its impressive cinematography and evocative soundtrack, contribute to creating a cinematic experience that goes far beyond any miniseries of this style. Each episode is meticulously crafted, building a rich and immersive narrative that, in turn, has a functional internal structure.
However, despite its emotional power and cinematic beauty, The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey is not without its flaws. Some critics have pointed out that the plot becomes somewhat predictable towards the end, and that some moments can be repetitive or overly sentimental. However, these minor details do not overshadow the overall impact of the series, which remains a powerful and touching work for sensitive hearts.
Undoubtedly, the series is not afraid to explore the darkest and most complex corners of the human experience. Through the story of Ptolemy, we witness the fragility and strength of the human spirit, as well as the ability of love and connection to transcend even the most heartbreaking circumstances. A unique bet from Apple TV+ that brings us the best of Samuel L. Jackson.
