Michael C. Hall’s Underrated Thriller: A Top Harlan Coben Show on Netflix Even 7 Years Later

Renowned author Harlan Coben has seen numerous adaptations of his crime novels, the majority of which have found a home on Netflix. Among these adaptations, Safe stands out as a particularly noteworthy entry. This series, one of Coben’s early works adapted for television, unfolds in a quaint English town and centers around Tom, a widowed father striving to care for his two daughters following the tragic death of their mother. However, his life takes a dark turn when one of his daughters goes missing, leading Tom to uncover the sinister secrets within his seemingly secure gated community.

Coben is celebrated for crafting immersive and thrilling narratives that captivate readers, earning him numerous accolades throughout his writing career. Nonetheless, not all of his literary masterpieces have successfully transitioned to the screen. While his novels are rich with intricate characters and layers of motivation, the television adaptations have occasionally fallen short of expectations. The recently released show Missing You struggled with an underwhelming Rotten Tomatoes rating, intensifying anticipation—and pressure—for Coben’s upcoming series.

Safe: A High Point Among Harlan Coben Adaptations on Netflix

A Critical Favorite

Michael C Hall in gated neighborhood in Safe.

Released seven years ago, Safe continues to garner praise and maintain its position as one of the top-rated adaptations of Coben’s work, boasting a remarkable Rotten Tomatoes audience score of 74% alongside a critic score of 71%. These ratings are significantly higher compared to other adaptations, such as Fool Me Once (audience score of 45%) and Missing You (a mere 28%). The show’s success can be attributed to its tightly woven storytelling and captivating performances, elements that have been lacking in Coben’s other adaptations.

At the heart of Coben’s storytelling prowess lies his ability to build engaging narratives that not only entertain but also set the stage for unexpected plot twists. Safe exemplifies this skill, with each episode offering new enigmas that compel viewers to stay engaged. However, recent adaptations have struggled, with shows like Fool Me Once diverting considerably from their source material, ultimately diminishing their impact.

Safe’s Intriguing Central Mystery

Michael C. Hall and Audrey Fleurot in Safe promotional art.

The primary reason Safe remains Coben’s most engaging adaptation is its compelling premise. The storyline of a father desperately searching for his missing daughter resonates deeply, drawing viewers into an emotional narrative without the need for convoluted plots that often plague thrillers like Fool Me Once or Missing You. Notably, Safe is not derived from any of Coben’s existing novels, further suggesting that sometimes the best stories emerge from original concepts rather than adaptations.

Michael C. Hall delivers a masterful performance as Tom, striking a balance between vulnerability and hidden depths. His character’s complexity shines, adding layers to the depiction of a father’s love and determination. Alongside him, Amanda Abbington shines as Detective Sophie, enriching the ensemble cast with her enigmatic presence, which enhances the overall depth of the story.

A Notable Follow-Up for Michael C. Hall Post-Dexter

Parallels Between Tom and Dexter

Michael C. Hall’s portrayal in Dexter left an indelible mark on television, and after years in the role, it’s understandable why he would seek a fresh perspective with Safe. This series provided him with a character that retains some familiar traits while allowing him to explore new territory, making it a refreshing departure from his past role.

Tom, as a protagonist, embodies a multifaceted nature; while he remains focused on finding the perpetrator responsible for his daughter’s abduction, his own hidden motives add an intriguing twist reminiscent of Dexter. This complexity not only enriches his character but also cleverly signals to the audience that Tom may not be entirely what he appears, may add another layer of intrigue to the series, confirming Safe as one of Coben’s most compelling creations.

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