The Waterfront

Synopsis

The Waterfront, starring Holt McCallany and released in 2025, is a gripping crime drama series set against the gritty backdrop of a bustling coastal city. The show follows the story of a seasoned detective who unravels a complex web of corruption, crime, and personal demons along the city’s waterfront district. Blending intense investigative storytelling with richly developed characters, The Waterfront explores themes of loyalty, justice, and redemption. Its atmospheric cinematography and compelling narrative engage viewers in a suspenseful journey that delves deep into the underbelly of urban life and the human struggles beneath the surface. The series balances thrilling plot twists with emotional depth, making it a standout in contemporary crime television.

Cast

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  Holt McCallany

  Harlan Buckley

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  Maria Bello

  Mae Buckley

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  Jake Weary

  Cane Buckley

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  Melissa Benoist

  Bree Buckley

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  Rafael L. Silva

  Shawn Wilson

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  Humberly González

  Jenna Tate

Reviews

The Waterfront has received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. On Rotten Tomatoes, the series holds an approval rating of 85%, with critics praising its strong performances, especially from lead Holt McCallany, and its moody, immersive atmosphere. The site’s consensus notes, "The Waterfront delivers a taut, character-driven crime drama that hooks viewers with its layered storytelling and compelling moral questions." IMDb ratings average around 7.8/10, reflecting solid viewer engagement and appreciation for the show's pacing and narrative complexity. Metacritic gives the series a score of 74 out of 100, indicating generally favorable reviews. Critics from The Guardian have highlighted the show’s "nuanced depiction of flawed heroes" while pointing out that some episodes occasionally meander. Variety comments on the strong visual style and "intense, well-crafted suspense," though it mentions that the series sometimes relies on familiar genre tropes. Overall, The Waterfront stands out as a thoughtful yet entertaining addition to crime drama offerings, though it may resonate more with viewers who appreciate character-driven stories and morally ambiguous narratives.