User reviews

Like most HBO shows, The Night Of was fantastic. The Night Of is full of suspense, drama, action, twists, turns, etc. But what makes this show so good is the performance of Riz Ahmed. He even won an Emmy for lead actor in a miniseries. The show itself has won a ton of awards and has an impressive 94% on Rotten Tomatoes. Ahmed is the star here but he's not the only one to give a great performance. As always John Turturro and Michael Kenneth Williams were as terrific as always. They both were nominated for best supporting actors in a miniseries for their work here. I was hooked from the start. It will keep you guessing throughout the series. The show is best watched binged so make sure you give yourself enough time before starting it.

The Night Of is a great mini-series that won a bunch of awards including five Emmy's. This series will hook you from the start and keep you on the edge of your seat throughout the entire series. The twists and turns will keep you guessing and mesmerized until the very end. It has a great cast, led by Riz Ahmed and John Turturro, who are all just terrific in this. It's also beautifully written. It's about a college student who meets a girl and the next thing he knows he's in custody for murder. If you're looking for a great crime drama to pass the time then give this a chance. You won't be disappointed.

Introduction: When I stumbled upon the series "The Night Of," little did I know that it would become a transformative experience for me. As I embarked on this intense and emotionally charged journey, I found myself drawn into a world of crime, justice, and the complexities of the human psyche. In this personal review, I will share my thoughts and reflections on this captivating series that left an indelible mark on my soul.

A Captivating Narrative: From the very first episode, "The Night Of" gripped me with its compelling storyline. The show follows the harrowing journey of Nasir Khan, a young man accused of a brutal crime he claims he did not commit. As I watched Nasir's life unravel, I became emotionally invested in his struggle for justice and redemption. The series skillfully weaves together suspense, mystery, and legal drama, keeping me on the edge of my seat throughout.

Raw and Authentic Performances: The performances in "The Night Of" are nothing short of extraordinary. Riz Ahmed's portrayal of Nasir Khan is deeply moving, capturing the vulnerability and anguish of a man caught in a web of injustice. Ahmed's nuanced performance allowed me to connect with Nasir on a profound level, feeling his fear, desperation, and unwavering determination to prove his innocence. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, adding depth and authenticity to each scene.

Exploring the Flaws of the Justice System: One of the show's most powerful aspects is its unflinching examination of the flaws within the justice system. "The Night Of" sheds light on the dehumanizing realities of incarceration, the prejudices faced by those accused of crimes, and the complexities of the legal process. It confronts viewers with uncomfortable truths, forcing us to question our own biases and the fairness of the system we place our trust in.

Character Development and Emotional Depth: "The Night Of" excels in its portrayal of complex and multi-dimensional characters. From John Stone, the unconventional lawyer played brilliantly by John Turturro, to the enigmatic and captivating inmate Freddy Knight portrayed by Michael Kenneth Williams, each character is meticulously crafted. The series delves into their personal journeys, showcasing their growth, vulnerabilities, and the moral dilemmas they face. It is through these characters that we witness the profound impact of the events unfolding around them.

Cinematic Brilliance: Visually, "The Night Of" is a masterpiece. The dark and gritty atmosphere of New York City is beautifully captured, immersing viewers in the seedy underbelly of the city. The use of lighting, cinematography, and sound design heightens the tension, creating an unsettling ambiance that adds an extra layer of depth to the narrative. The attention to detail in every frame is a testament to the artistic vision of the creators.

Conclusion: "The Night Of" is a series that transcends its genre. It is a deeply personal and introspective exploration of the human condition, shining a light on the complex nature of justice, morality, and redemption. This thought-provoking series left me contemplating the blurred lines between right and wrong, the impact of our choices, and the enduring power of hope. It is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and a reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding. "The Night Of" is a must-watch for anyone seeking a profound and immersive television experience.

Pros:- 1. Acting - Brilliantly acted by the entire cast, Riz Ahmed delivered a brilliant performance as the protagonist.

2. Storytelling 3. The Directors have made an attempt to keep it as simple as possible, something a lot of the directors fail to achieve, leading to too complex a show to watch to. The Night Of directors do not make this mistake. Loved how they did not overcomplicate the trial.

Cons:- 1. Plot Hole - With the sort of stabbing, no blood stains at all on the accused, and neither the defence, nor the investigation team notice it. The prosecution could have easily used it to corroborate the truth regarding the incident.

2. Character Arcs inconsistent - Yes, the makers attempt to reflect on the fact that a falsely accused young man may not be as simple or innocent as one might think, through Naz's character, but they make him inconsistent by making him remorseful and repenting at first but then turning him into a cold and sort-of-seasoned convict inside the jail.

3. Pace- the pace at which the show moves forward is really slow. You might watch an episode and still have the feeling that you haven't really watched anything because there is just so little to learn from the episodes between the first and the last. You can also observe this from the fact that the first and last episode are 75+ minutes each, but the rest of the episodes are around the 55-minute mark.

4. Personal opinion - I did not like the love angle added by the makers between Naz and Chandra. When they kissed in the jail cell, I wanted to see where are the writers headed with this, but by the end it just felt like a way to get Stone to deliver the closing statement of the defence. Not to highlight the fact that Chandra being a straight-up smart and career-oriented woman made such a stupid error, which any prudent human understands can cost them their career too.

Special Mention - The direction, story-telling and acting of the first episode really make you, as a viewer, feel the protagonist. I absolutely felt the anxiety and nervousness like Naz would have from the moment he discovered Andrea's murder.

Brilliant and strait-laced Pakistani-American student Naz (Riz Ahmed) is off to a must-attend party in Manhattan on a Friday night in his only available transportation, his father's (Payman Maadi) cab. But his party-going schemes are quickly forgotten when a gorgeous young woman (Sophia Black) jumps aboard in need of a ride. After a night of partying with the mysterious girl he picked up, Naz wakes up to find her stabbed to death and with blood on his hands. Detective Sergeant Dennis Box (Bill Camp) discovers some clues and Naz becomes prime suspect and is subsequently charged with her murder. This resulted him accused for murder and rejection of bail by a judge. He's imprisoned at a dangerous jail where's harassed and humiliated until that who receives some kind of help from a tough convict (Michael Kenneth Williams). Meanwhile, an alcoholic lawyer (John Turturro) in financial trouble offers to represent him. ¡ He wakes up with blood on his hands, the evidence is stacked against him, but he doesn't remember the grisly crime !. Is he guilty or not ?.

A brooding and enjoyable drama based on the BBC series "Criminal Justice" that results to be a gripping, interesting and old-style entertainment. The series mixes three genres: prison movie, courtroom drama and police investigation, and the combination emerges with undoubted perfection. The remaining plot is how he goes through the criminal justice system and prove his alleged innocence. A real chesnut, outstanding the character of the alcoholic lawyer winning back his self-respect in a case that proves not as straightforward as everyone thought. The series excels thanks to a very thoughtful and immaculately structured script written by prestigious writers Peter Moffat, Richard Price and created by director Steven Zaillian himself. This mini-series plays fair and square with its audience. Main and support cast are perfect and giving magnificent interpretations. John Turturro is awesome giving an exceptional acting as an outcast, alcoholic failed lawyer sees who the chance to salvage his career and self-respect by taking a murder case to trial rather than settling. The series is developed in two environments : in and out of prison. One of the best parts being narrated into prison because of it reflects the astonishing existence of a good man in a violent prison, as well as the inmates , with fights, threats , murders and where rules the strongest's law. This piece of exemplay moviecraft, is surely the series for which John Turturro and Riz Ahmed should have won an Emmy. The movie gets an exciting battle of wits between the obstinate lawyer John Turturro and the cunning District Attorney Jeannie Berlin. The latter is smoothly persuasive as ever as coutroom opponent, but what really gives the movie a lift is John Turturro's grip on the central role. And not forgetting Bill Camp, who is a terrific as a stubborn and relentless police inspector about to retire who tries to find the truth and achieve justice by any means. And remaining support cast is frankly excellent, such as: Payman Maadi, Poorna Jagannathan, Jeannie Berlin, Michael Kenneth Williams Michael Kenneth Williams, Amara Karan, Glenne Headly, Paul Sparks, Paulo Costanzo, Don Harvey, among others.

The series in 8 episodes was stunningly directed by Steven Zaillan and James Marsh, both of whom have through a long career, making several successful films. Steven Zaillian has contributed to screenplays uncredited on a number of projects over the years. They include Patriot Games (1992), Red Tide (1995), Twister (1996), Primal Fear (1996), Amistad (1997), Saving Private Ryan (1998), Black Hawk Down (2001), Road to Perdition (2002) , Body of Lies (2008) , Exodus , The Irishman . He was also called upon in post-production to rewrite some scenes for re-shoots for Salt (2010). Wrote four screenplays for feature films nominated for the 'Best Picture' Academy Award: Awakenings (1990), Schindler's list (1993), Gangs of New York (2002) and Moneyball (2011). Of those, Schindler's list (1993) won 'Best Picture' and earned Zaillian an Academy Award for 'Best Adapted Screenplay', and directing the attractive ¨Searching for Bobby Fisher¨. While James Marsh is a director and producer, known for The King (2005), Shadow Dancer (2012) and especially The Theory of Everything (2014), directing 2 Oscar nominated performances: Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones, Redmayne won for his main role as Stephen Hawking. The Night Of (2016) Rating: 8/10. Better than average. A must watch thriller/suspense drama series.

HBO doesn't disappoint when it comes to crime shows it seems. When i first heard about "The Night of" being reminiscing of "True detective" in New York fashion I got curious.

Although not as good, I would say this show is rather a compilation and a little cousin of "The Wire" "True Detective" and "Oz". It starts as a murder mystery, turns into detective / prison / court drama at the same time. What is there not to like?

However I want to say this: AT FIRST the characters seem very uninteresting and boring which made me almost quit the show after the third episode! But the mystery kept me going and I watched some more, and I was hooked til the end. Thanks to the great and compelling writing.

What this show does the best is the depiction of New York and it's everyday police investigation. But in my opinion the prison world is really what makes this shine, it's done very well. You really start to feel for the character.

Also towards the end the court scenes are some of the BEST lawyer drama I have ever seen, so it's quite clear the showrunners know what they are doing given the complex themes of law and prison life.

If you're looking for a quality crime show similar to "True Detective" and "The Wire" watch this and get through the first few episodes, you won't be disappointed.

8/10.

The story line is just the same as a documentary i watched(shot and paralyzed by Manasseh Azuri in Ghana, just check it on YOUTUBE). i just love movies with DRAMA and investigation and the night of happen to be one of them. Guys this series is amazing, follow it.Every day in our lives we faces or hear about murder cases like the one portray in night of, as to whether these individuals commit such offenses depends on swift actions taken by police department and our criminal justice system. The legal system and the court plays a huge also plays a huge role in coming out with the truth,Is very difficult to predict if this young man committed this crime. i recommend this series for every one

Good show, but it gets a bit ridiculous at times. Prison is actually safer than the streets in terms of potential murder on average. Also, what are these subplots about John's eczema and cat? Is this just another thing where something physical bugs him until he gets the big break on the Nazir Khan case? I feel the same way about each of these scenes as I do when Maester Pycelle did the calisthenics in Game of Thrones. The show seems to be plodding along and I am somewhat reluctant to see how they're possibly going to wrap this all up in one more episode.

HBO just always seems to dish out masterclass series doesn't it? This one surely didn't disappoint. Even though it's another classic law and order type baseline, the way the story was written out really gets you more and more invested in the entire crime drama. The acting was stellar, especially John Torturro who was absolutely phenomenal, peaking at the end with that closing argument bringing the whole thing to a summit.. almost al pacino-esque in scent of a woman. Riz did a phenomenal job in his transformation both physically and with his acting to show you the role prison plays in criminalizing people.

The show starts with a big bang, and the episodes in between are fairly long which I didn't think they needed to be, but still I was gripped to each one. The sub plots play a big part in the overall story although there's a hint of predictability in the end of where it would go (I mean as viewers we all kinda want that feel good stuff too).

Overall an absolute must watch, not for the crime drama itself, but for the storyline, the excellent character play and the overall life potrayal of what all the parties involved in a crime go through.

HBO's The Night Of is a U. S. remake of the BBC's Criminal Justice (2008), and while it honors the original's core premise - an ordinary person accused of murder facing a merciless legal system - it expands the story into something uniquely American. Set in New York, the series uses the framework of the UK show to explore race, class, and the grueling machinery of U. S. justice.

Riz Ahmed delivers a career-defining performance as Naz Khan, the shy, awkward student whose life unravels after one fateful night. Opposite him, John Turturro is quietly brilliant as Jack Stone, the world-weary lawyer whose shabbiness masks sharp insight and genuine humanity. Their dynamic anchors the show, giving it heart amid the systemic horror.

The series is deliberately slow-burning. Every courtroom scene, prison corridor, and mundane detail, from Rikers' routines to the discomfort of daily survival, contributes to a suffocating sense of realism. At times the pacing tests patience, but the tension and atmosphere are worth the immersion.

Compared to the original, The Night Of is more expansive and socially resonant, letting the audience linger longer in the moral and bureaucratic gray zones. The result is less a mystery than a deep, unsettling character study and indictment of a flawed system.

At 8.5/10, it's gripping, immersive, and unforgettable... a rare remake that not only honors the original but adds its own depth and dimension.

The Night Of is a really stunning and thought-provoking series. A story that deeply examines the dark aspects of crime, the justice system, and human nature. The series impressively reveals how an ordinary life can be turned upside down in an instant and the complex, sometimes ruthless nature of the justice system. The atmosphere of the series, the dark and tense narration, Riz Ahmed's performance that gave life to the character of Naz, the thin line between innocence and guilt is memorable. While watching, you are watching not only a crime story, but also an analysis of the prejudices of society, the weaknesses of justice and the inner transformation of the individual. In summary, "The Night Of" is both a crime drama and a strong social criticism. A must-watch production for those looking for a quality script description and unforgettable performances.

"The Night Of" is a standout TV miniseries that offers a compelling and original crime drama. I give it a solid 8 out of 10. From the first episode to the last, the series keeps you hooked with its well-crafted story, excellent acting, and dark atmosphere.

The story follows Nasir "Naz" Khan, a Pakistani-American college student who gets caught up in a murder investigation after a night out goes wrong. The plot is well-written and thought-provoking, exploring the criminal justice system, race, and class in America.

One of the best parts of "The Night Of" is its dark and moody feel. The show's look and design perfectly match the serious and tense story. This darkness adds to the suspense and keeps you engaged throughout the series.

The acting is top-notch. Riz Ahmed shines as Naz, showing his character's transformation from an innocent student to someone hardened by prison and the legal system. John Turturro is equally impressive as John Stone, Naz's lawyer. His portrayal of a struggling lawyer with a skin condition is both convincing and relatable.

Supporting actors like Bill Camp as Detective Dennis Box and Michael K. Williams as Freddy Knight, a prison inmate who befriends Naz, also deliver strong performances. Each actor adds depth to the story, making it richer and more engaging.

While the series is dark, this tone is essential to the story. It offers a realistic look at the criminal justice system, showing its flaws and complexities. This realism makes the show both entertaining and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, "The Night Of" is a must-watch for crime drama fans. Its original story, strong performances, and dark atmosphere make it a standout series that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Despite its serious tone, it is an engaging and insightful tale, deserving of a solid 8 out of 10.

All the episode are absolutely riveting from start to finish. Almost everything about this show is well done. The acting is great, the cinematography is very expressionistic

It's a great series that keeps you watching until the end. The performances are very good from all the main actors. John Turturro has that "unique dynamic style" he has in almost all the series/films he stars in. The camerawork is also very nice and clear. You definitely don't know what will happen until the end, but it doesn't bother you that much because it's a stable journey to the end.

The only thing that was a little tiring was the length of the series. There are 8 episodes that last from 60 to 90 minutes, but the series could have had 5 episodes and we as viewers would have gotten exactly the same thing. In other words, it seems that they drag out many scenes for no reason.

It is, however, a series that I would recommend watching.

Good cinematography dark theme and very detailed character building...just watch first episode and you never stop yourself to finish rest of the episodes

The good thing about mini-series is that you can watch the whole story in a couple days, and you don't have to wait an entire year to know the rest. The Night Of is one of those series you binge watch. The mystery level is that high that you can't help it to watch all the episodes as soon as possible. It's the kind of show where you have your idea about what really happened, that makes you change your mind at one point, to end up with something completely different than what you expected. It's a quality crime/trial show with excellent actors like Riz Ahmed, John Turturro and the late and missed Michael Kenneth Williams. The rest of the cast was also really good in playing their characters. The cinematography is quite simple but effective. No wild action scenes, no CGI's, just plain storytelling at the highest level. The Night Of is definitely a show I will watch again in the future, when I will have forgotten everything about it, if that's even possible.

This show starts really slow and stays slow, I usually hate that but they made it work with this show. You know what's going to happen next but it's so interesting you have to keep watching. The characters are awesome, the kid is an idiot but everyone is still watchable. Great show so far. This review has to contain a certain amount of lines, do I need to explain every detail about the show to give a review. It's a really good interesting show and I enjoy watching it. I would recommend this show, even to people who don't like slow shows. It's not a typical he done it show where the suspect is obviously innocent but looks a little guilty, he looks a lot guilty and you don't actually know for sure he's innocent but he could be........ Great show

I haven't seen anyone else mention this, but I found this series to be pretty heavy. Watching the things this guy had to go through to survive is painful, just the mental torment alone starting in the very first episode. It feels personal because the situation that the main character finds himself in can happen to any of us.

Besides that the acting is great, the storytelling is as well and it seems very raw. It is not dramatized, but also not sugar-coded. It's reality and it's brutal and that's why it's so diffcult to watch.