The opening shot of Rabbit Hole (2023) is a close-up of Kiefer Sutherland’s eyes darting side to side, his gaze betraying a paranoia that will come to define the series. This isn’t just another spy thriller; it’s a descent into a world where nothing is as it seems, and trust is a luxury John Weir (Sutherland) can’t afford.

Created by Glenn Ficarra and John Requa for Paramount+, Rabbit Hole casts Sutherland as Weir, a corporate espionage agent framed for murder. The series, inspired by political thrillers like Three Days of the Condor, follows Weir as he navigates a cat-and-mouse game to clear his name. With a cast that includes Charles Dance and Meta Golding, and filmed primarily in Toronto, the show aims to deliver a modern take on the paranoid thriller genre.

What works is Sutherland’s performance. His portrayal of Weir is nuanced and compelling, carrying the series with a gravitas that grounds even the most far-fetched twists. The supporting cast, particularly Dance in his enigmatic role, adds depth and intrigue. The series’ pacing is another strength, with eight propulsive episodes that keep the audience hooked. The reveals and twists are satisfyingly dispersed, maintaining a tension that rarely lets up.

However, Rabbit Hole falters in its execution of some plot points. The show tumbles into one twist too many, sometimes at the expense of coherence. The intricate web of deception can become convoluted, making it difficult to follow the narrative thread. Additionally, while the premise is intriguing, the series occasionally struggles to differentiate itself from other espionage dramas.

The cinematography and production design are solid, with Toronto standing in for New York City effectively. The series also benefits from a score that amplifies the tension and paranoia central to the story. Yet, the visual style never quite elevates the material beyond what we’ve seen before.

In the end, Rabbit Hole is a decent addition to the spy thriller genre, elevated by Sutherland’s performance and a tight narrative structure.