
Warning: This article contains spoilers for episodes 1 and 2 of Prime Target.
The opening episodes of Prime Target not only set the stage for the forthcoming season but also leave audiences grappling with a multitude of compelling questions. This Apple TV+ miniseries, featuring Leo Woodall—known for his work in The White Lotus and One Day—weaves elements of classic sci-fi thrillers like The Imitation Game and Pi. It skillfully fuses intricate mathematical enigmas with high-stakes tension, forming a captivating tale while distinctly carving out its own niche within the genre.
As a miniseries, Prime Target is designed to unravel its core mysteries within its limited run, rather than hinting at potential sequels. Nonetheless, the first two episodes have left viewers with more questions than answers, raising intrigue surrounding its later developments. Fans are eagerly anticipating how the story will logically connect the various plot threads and resolve the lingering uncertainties as the narrative progresses.
10 Who Killed Professor Mallinder?
It Had Something To Do With His Connection To The Prime Number Research

As Edward dives into prime number theory, Professor Mallinder grows increasingly apprehensive, ultimately urging him to abandon his work. In a state of desperation, Mallinder erases all of his research, both digitally and physically. Tragically, shortly after, he dies in his vehicle from carbon monoxide poisoning. While authorities initially label it a suicide, NSA agent Taylah discovers that the surveillance footage from the time of death has been tampered with, casting doubt on the circumstances surrounding Mallinder’s demise.
9 What Makes Edward’s Prime Number Research Dangerous?
Someone Is Taking Down All The Mathematicians Involved With The Research
Following Mallinder’s inquiry into Edward’s work on prime numbers, an unidentified individual warns him about the dangers of returning to the project, suggesting he has previously ceased his research for similar reasons. The implications of this warning indicate a larger, more sinister campaign against those exploring the complexities of prime number theory.
Prime Target’s Cast & Characters |
|
Actor |
Role |
Leo Woodall |
Edward Brooks |
Quintessa Swindell |
Taylah Sanders |
Sidse Babett Knudsen |
Professor Andrea Lavin |
David Morrissey |
Professor Robert Mallinder |
From Fee |
Adam Mellow |
Stephen Rea |
Professor James Alderman |
Joseph Mydell |
Professor Raymond Osborne |
Tom Stourton |
Ricky Olson |
Sofia Barclay |
Sufiya Zamil |
The series maintains an air of mystery regarding the gravity of uncovering the patterns in prime numbers, hinting that deciphering the code could grant access to astonishing knowledge, potentially affecting digital security worldwide.
8 Who Killed Olson & Shot At Taylah In Episode 2’s Ending?
The NSA Could Be Responsible
After alerting her superior, Olson, about her concerns regarding Mallinder’s death, Olson consults higher-ups in the NSA. Shortly thereafter, he is shot by a sniper, and Taylah has a narrow escape from the assailant. These events strongly imply that either the NSA or another clandestine organization is attempting to silence them to bury the truth surrounding Mallinder’s case.
7 Who Was Safiya Zamil?
Safiya Zamil Was Also Working On The Prime Numbers
Safiya Zamil, mentioned in passing, plays a key role in the unfolding narrative that the show deliberately keeps vague for maximum intrigue. Mallinder’s wife hints at complexities in Safiya’s history, suggesting a significant yet undisclosed connection to Mallinder. Edward learns that Safiya’s research also revolved around prime numbers, further weaving her into the fabric of the mystery.
6 Was Safiya Killed By The Same People Who Murdered Mallinder?
Many Details Surrounding Safiya’s Fate Remain Unknown
Edward’s investigation reveals that Safiya supposedly died by suicide three decades ago. This revelation triggers a connection in Edward’s mind, leading him to suspect both Mallinder and Safiya may have been victims of foul play rather than suicide. The possibility that Safiya actually faked her death to escape dangerous implications of her research adds another layer of suspense.
5 How Did The Prime Numbers Equation End Up On The Wall In Baghdad?
The Baghdad Ruins Somehow Tie Into Ed’s Story
In the premier episode, an explosion in Baghdad unveils ancient ruins, prompting Andrea to share photos with Edward. He soon discovers that an equation inscribed on one of the walls correlates with his prime number research. This tantalizing link suggests that ancient knowledge might play a critical role in the unfolding storyline, which viewers can expect to be further explored in future episodes.
4 Should Edward Trust Adam?
Adam May Not Be As Clueless As He Seems
Initially perceived as a minor character, Adam takes a more substantial role as he comforts Edward after Mallinder’s tragic passing, leading audiences to question his true intentions. His persistent inquiries into Edward’s research raise suspicions about whether Adam might be affiliated with the NSA or another shadowy agency, casting a shadow of doubt over his motives.
3 What Does The NSA Want?
The NSA’s True Motives Remain Unknown
The NSA is poised as a potential antagonist, hinting at extreme measures taken to protect the pivotal prime number research from falling into the wrong hands. However, the complex narrative in these initial episodes leaves the possibility open that the NSA may have underlying motives that guard mathematicians like Edward rather than merely imposing restrictions.
2 What Is The Kaplar Institute?
It Is Another Mysterious Organization That Seems To Work Against The NSA
In contrast to the NSA’s perceived threat, the Kaplar Institute (KI) emerges as an enigmatic organization potentially vying to uncover the mysteries surrounding prime number research. Clues threaded throughout the narrative indicate Mallinder’s involvement with the KI, and as Edward uncovers KI’s logo in his documents, it heightens curiosity about the institute’s true intentions and their potential alliance with him.
1 What Does Kaplar’s Stephen Patrick Nield Want From Ed?
He Seems To Be A Leading Figure In The Kaplar Institute
In a pivotal moment, Stephen Patrick Nield from KI appears at Ed’s residence, urging him to pursue his prime number research. While this could suggest that the organization has noble aims, the precarious nature of the information at hand makes it wise for Ed to remain discerning about their intentions. Navigating this treacherous landscape filled with potential dangers will be critical as the series progresses, especially considering the immense implications of cracking the prime number code on a global scale.
For further insights and images related to the show, visit Screen Rant.
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