Reel Review: Leo Woodall is Brilliant in Dark Academia Thriller Series Prime Target
A brilliant and studious postgraduate math student, Edward Brooks (Leo Woodall), is working on breakthrough research regarding patterns in prime numbers. Unbeknownst to him, that pattern is the key to every computer and digital system in the world, making him an investigation target by the NSA. An unknown enemy attempt to derail his research, and subsequently his life.
Prime Target is the center of modern dark academia, a genre mostly claimed by book fans. While the concept of math and prime numbers seems boring to many, Leo Woodall brings his charm to the mainly nerdy character and proves his chops as leading man material. His previous work in The White Lotus and One Day solidified him as an actor to watch, but Prime Target proves he can be far more than just a charming smile and love interest.
The first two episodes dive head first into seemingly unconnected storylines; a brilliant math student and an archaeological discovery. However, Edward’s professor is married to a woman who is set to research and understand the newfound underground building and decipher when and why it was formed. This through line is still a bit murky, but when people connected to the couple are threatened, the dangers surrounding these different types of research seem to intersect.
It also comes to light that Edward’s research has been tracked by the NSA, more specifically Tylah Sanders (Quintessa Swindell). She was tasked with watching and reporting mathematician’s research and behavior in fear that their work could become a national or international security threat. While the job is frequently boring, her investment begins to increase as she detects details within her work that may connect to something more dangerous. In an attempt to disprove a possible murder, Taylah’s own life is threatened leading to her belief that either the NSA is at fault, or a mole is putting her in danger. Swindell is captivating in this role, performing stunts from the get go and conveying so much emotional and information in the subtlest movements.
No need to fear, you don’t have to have a genius brain to follow this mathematical thriller. It is intelligent without being pompous or pretentious and is aware that that viewer is not looking for in depth education on the topic. The details pertinent to the story are divulged in an accessible way, allowing audiences to focus on solving the mystery behind the madness. The one spot where the show begins to loose momentum is mid-season. The two interconnected storylines still don’t feel united and leave audiences a bit bored. Without being able to hold onto the high stakes promised in early episodes, Prime Target loses steam.
Every single episode is a puzzle of questions and answers which keeps you clicking ‘next episode’. The dual storylines are sure to connect at some point, but the not knowing is the most fun aspect of this show. Even the sets are dramatic and grandiose allowing you to fall into the world of this story. This academic thriller is the perfect balance of deep analytical issues and a charming and easy to watch cast. Prime Target is brilliant, but crumbles under the weight of trying to connect too many stories and side characters.
Prime Target is streaming on Apple TV+.
