By: Matt Reuter
When Jessica Biel finds her way back onto our TV screens, it’s kind of a big deal. Biel rose to fame with a major role on hit TV show 7th Heaven, and later progressed to star in critically-acclaimed movies such as Total Recall and The Illusionist. Now it’s 2017, and not only does Biel have a child with husband Justin Timberlake, but she also has completely changed her image as an actress.
After starring in a number of indie films, Biel has returned to her TV roots in the form of a limited series. In The Sinner, a disturbing psychological thriller, Biel serves as the lead actress and executive producer. The show capitalizes on the rising popularity of limited series (think The Night Of, American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson) and highlights the versatility of Biel in the film industry. With a quick eight episodes, this series will leave you wanting much more.
PHOTO: USA Network
Based on a novel of the same name, the show follows Cora Tannetti, a housewife who appears to be unsatisfied with her mundane, married life. One day at the beach with her husband and son, Tannetti walks over to a man sitting nearby and, without hesitation, viciously stabs him. In the aftermath, Tannetti cannot figure out why she would’ve done such a thing. I don’t want to give too much away, but the series is formatted as a reverse narrative. We figure out why Cora may have committed this crime as she figures it out herself. It creates a truly captivating mystery about one woman’s hidden struggle—and each episode just gets better and better as you dig deeper into Cora’s memory. Bill Pullman co-stars in the role of Harry Ambrose, a detective who is determined to find out what’s eating at Cora Tannetti. If you’re into crime mysteries, psychological thrillers, or creepy films, The Sinner will definitely hold your attention.
And if you do end up becoming addicted to The Sinner, there’s no doubt you won’t be hooked on the infectious, hard and heavy, rock-synth song played in her flashbacks. Before you go looking for it, here’s what it’s called: Huggin & Kissin by Big Black Delta. Try jogging to it; you’ll feel like someone’s chasing after you.
PHOTO: Peter Kramer/USA Network
The show aired on USA Network on 8/2/17 and can be accessed on USA’s streaming service. Episodes are available for rent on Amazon, YouTube, Google Play and Vudu. So what are you waiting for?
Cover Photo: Brownie Harris/USA Network
Tell me if you’ve tuned in to The Sinner in the comments!