I Watched Netflix’s Top Show, and There’s Only One Thing It Has Going For It (But It’s a Big Thing)

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Among the shows streaming on Netflix with a subscription, “The Waterfront” created by Kevin Williamson (known for “Scream” and “The Vampire Diaries”) is currently the most popular. While it’s good, I must admit it doesn’t quite top my list of favorites in the 2025 TV lineup thus far. The show seems to draw inspiration from Taylor Sheridan’s style, as a struggling Southern family resorts to criminal activities to save their declining small town dynasty. The cast is strong, particularly Holt McCallany as the Buckley patriarch. However, Topher Grace’s portrayal of the sinister Grady truly shines.

(Note: There are mild spoilers ahead, so if you prefer not to know anything about the show before watching, it would be best to steer clear.)

It Takes A While For The Waterfront To Find Its Rhythm

As a movie enthusiast, I’m currently hooked on “The Waterfront,” the latest series that just started streaming this week. It shares similarities with a Taylor Sheridan show, focusing on the tumultuous journey of the influential Buckley family in the make-believe North Carolina town of Havenport.

The narrative begins somewhat fragmented, as each of the first three episodes focuses on distinct members of the Buckley clan enduring their worst days – a predicament they all lament repeatedly. The family, in an attempt to escape a seven-figure debt, has resorted to their old ways of drug trafficking, hoping this will secure their family business and the beachfront property from unwanted development.

As a loyal family member, I’ve found myself in a challenging position. My patriarch, Harlan, has been dealing with a string of heart attacks and, unfortunately, has been spending his days and nights immersed in drinking and infidelity, which Belle, my wife, is well aware of. Despite this, she, along with our son Cane, have been tirelessly working to preserve our family’s empire. In an effort to keep things afloat, Cane has ventured into the drug trade using our fleet of boats – a business practice that Harlan and his father engaged in during less savory times before Harlan cleaned up the business.

Cane’s endeavors haven’t been fruitful until Harlan discovers what he’s been up to, but it isn’t until the arrival of Topher Grace’s character, Grady, that the show truly gains momentum.

In Episode Four, We Finally Meet The Supplier

In the series, Grady has been orchestrating events from backstage, long before we encounter him in Episode Four. His first appearance is on his farm, not only dealing heroin but also cultivating poppies and producing his own supply. He’s got a gang of tough guys residing with him on the farm, and it swiftly becomes apparent that he’s far from mentally stable. Actress Grace delivers an exceptional performance, skillfully portraying Grady as both a charismatic tech entrepreneur and a potentially dangerous individual, keeping audiences guessing about his unpredictable and terrifying nature.

Towards the climax of the series, Grady’s behavior became increasingly malevolent and erratic, leaving me eager to see just what extreme actions he might take next. I sensed that the storyline wouldn’t veer too far from the norm, and ultimately, the Buckleys would emerge victorious. The show was essentially a test of their resilience against Grady’s torment, and an exploration of how they could ultimately outwit him.

Grady makes an exceptional antagonist, and Grace’s role perfectly fits her talents. Though you may not find yourself cheering him on, there’s no denying that you can’t help but be drawn in by his continued appearances.

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2025-06-24 21:07