Netflix's latest original series, 'I Will Find You', is a prime example of the streaming giant's approach to background viewing. The show, an adaptation of a Harlan Coben novel, is designed to be watched with one eye on the screen and the other on your phone, as evidenced by its simplistic plot and one-dimensional characters. The series follows David Burroughs, wrongfully imprisoned for the murder of his son, who, conveniently, is revealed to be alive and out there somewhere. This premise, while intriguing, is just the tip of the iceberg in a show that feels more like a series of contrived events than a coherent narrative. The plot's urgency is undermined by stiff performances and a lack of focus on interpersonal relationships, with the leads' characters speaking in dialogue that doubles as exposition dumps. The show's momentum is pushed forward by convenient developments, such as the protagonist's escape from prison and the involvement of a wealthy ex-boyfriend, who acts as a literal get-out-of-jail-free card. The emotional throughline about the lengths parents go to for their children is hinted at but never fully explored, leaving the audience with a sense of inconsistency. The show's suspense gradually spins out of control, with shady figures and ridiculous twists that feel more like plot devices than a well-crafted narrative. The show takes itself too seriously and not seriously enough, leaving it an inorganic mess that not even its cast can elevate. While 'I Will Find You' may not be a distraction from your doomscrolling, it is a prime example of a show that fails to engage and captivate its audience. The series premieres on Netflix on June 18th, but it's unlikely to leave a lasting impression.
