Why ‘The Old Man’ Starring Jeff Bridges is a Must-Watch Thriller.
“The Old Man” Review: Jeff Bridges Returns to the Screen in a Gripping Thriller
After a brief hiatus, Jeff Bridges returns to our screens in “The Old Man,” a gripping thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The series, which premiered on FX on Hulu, is based on the novel of the same name by Thomas Perry, and follows the story of Dan Chase (Jeff Bridges), a retired CIA officer who is forced back into the game when he becomes the target of an assassination attempt.
The show opens with a dramatic car chase, as Dan narrowly escapes a group of assassins who are hot on his trail. From there, the story unfolds in a series of flashbacks and present-day scenes, as Dan tries to piece together who is after him, and why. Along the way, he teams up with a young woman named Zoe (Alia Shawkat), who is also on the run from some dangerous people, and the two of them work together to uncover the truth behind the conspiracy that has put their lives in danger.
One of the standout features of “The Old Man” is the performance of Jeff Bridges in the lead role. Despite his age and declining health (Bridges was diagnosed with lymphoma in 2020), he brings a level of gravitas and depth to the character that is unmatched. Dan Chase is a complex and nuanced character, and Bridges plays him with a quiet intensity that is both captivating and compelling. He is a man who has seen it all, and his experiences have left him jaded and disillusioned, yet still determined to do the right thing, no matter the cost.
The supporting cast is also excellent, with Alia Shawkat delivering a standout performance as Zoe, a young woman who is in way over her head but refuses to back down. John Lithgow is also great as Harold Harper, a powerful and influential figure who may have more to do with the conspiracy than he lets on.
The show’s pacing is spot on, with each episode leaving you wanting more. The flashbacks to Dan’s time in the CIA are expertly woven into the present-day storyline, adding depth and context to his character and the events that have led to the present-day situation. The action scenes are well-choreographed and exciting, but it is the quieter moments that really shine, as the characters grapple with their inner demons and struggle to find their place in a world that has turned against them.
Another standout feature of “The Old Man” is its setting. The show takes place in the Pacific Northwest, and the lush forests and rugged coastline provide a stunning backdrop for the action. The cinematography is excellent, with sweeping shots of the landscape that give the show a cinematic quality.
Overall, “The Old Man” is a must-watch for fans of Jeff Bridges and anyone who loves a good thriller. The show is expertly crafted, with a compelling story, excellent performances, and stunning visuals. It is a testament to Bridges’ talent as an actor that he is still able to command the screen in such a powerful way, even in his old age. Whether you’re a fan of action, drama, or suspense, “The Old Man” has something for everyone.
