Prime Target, now streaming all eight episodes on Apple TV+, is a thriller that takes a deep dive into the world of prime numbers. The series stars Leo Woodall as Edward Brooks, a reclusive math genius, and Quintessa Swindell in a key role. Woodall’s portrayal of Brooks is compelling, reminiscent of Benedict Cumberbatch’s portrayal of Alan Turing in The Imitation Game—a brilliant but socially isolated character whose genius becomes central to solving a life-or-death mystery.

The show’s premise follows Brooks, with his exceptional math skills, as he is thrust into a dangerous situation where his understanding of prime numbers is the only way out. From the first two episodes, the show makes it clear that it’s not here for casual entertainment—it’s a serious thriller that expects viewers to engage with its complex ideas.

The pacing and storytelling work well, keeping the audience hooked as the mystery unfolds. Despite its focus on prime numbers—a subject that could easily feel dry or overly technical—Prime Target manages to make it accessible and engaging. The show cleverly balances the complexity of its subject matter with a suspenseful plot that keeps you interested in both the characters and the mystery they’re trying to solve.

However, one of the show’s major drawbacks is its lack of character development. While Woodall’s performance as Brooks is strong, many of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped. Their motivations and personal stories aren’t explored enough, leaving viewers invested in the plot but not deeply connected to the people driving it. This makes it harder to fully care about what happens to them, despite the intense situations they’re involved in.

All in all, Prime Target is a solid watch for fans of the thriller genre, offering an engaging story with enough twists to keep you hooked. While it doesn’t quite reach its full potential, particularly due to the underdeveloped characters, it’s still a worthwhile addition to the streaming service.

P.S. My Letterboxd handle is @BhumikGrover.