Netflix's The Waterfront: A Wild Ride That Falls Flat

Netflix's The Waterfront, although kicked off with potential, leaves a disappointing taste. The show is attempting to replicate the happy-go-lucky soap operas of yesteryears with a cast that can be considered above average.

However, the show left much to be desired beyond episodes two and three. Solid actors and bits of cartoonish violence couldn't salvage the lacklustre characters and distinct lack of authenticity in drama and setting. And even with the introduction of renowned actor, Topher Grace, as an unexpected sociopathic drug kingpin character, the show still fell flat in captivating audiences.

The Waterfront centres around a simulated waterfront community in North Carolina. Following characters such as Jake Weary's Cane Buckley, a struggling local fishery operator and scion of a family at the point of reverting back to criminality. Other characters include Cane's wayward mother and father, his recovering addict sister, and his seemingly underused wife, all culminating in a generic family crime saga.

Key criticisms of the series include its artificial setting, looking more like a commodified advertisement for filming in North Carolina than a believable panorama. Despite the details drawn from creator Kevin Williamson’s past, it never comes across as a personal story, resembling instead an unconvincing mix of crime and affluence made acceptable for streaming.

The Waterfront appeared to lack life beyond the screen, with characters existing only when required for the plot. This issue even extends to reputable actors within the show, creating an unsettling air of inauthenticity. Through all these, however, Topher Grace’s performance as Grady added an unpredictable and captivating element. His performance and the unique torture scene in the administration show are, unfortunately, the only somewhat redeeming qualities of The Waterfront.

Hence, while it's a serviceable attempt, Netflix's The Waterfront, with its generic, characterization-deficient plot and over-polished aesthetic, doesn't quite deliver the desired impact.