Prime Video is wading into murky waters with “Silent River,” a new thriller starring John Krasinski and Matthew Rhys. The series, created by Aaron Rabin, centers on two men who uncover a serial killer lurking beneath the placid surface of their small town. Krasinski isn’t just starring; he’s directing the pilot and multiple episodes, and executive producing through his Sunday Night banner. Consider this another feather in the cap of a multi-hyphenate who’s proven adept at balancing acting, directing, and producing.
Krasinski and Rhys, both known for their ability to portray nuanced characters, seem like a solid pairing to explore the unsettling undercurrents of small-town life. The series looks to capitalize on the inherent creepiness of seemingly idyllic communities, where secrets fester and darkness hides in plain sight. It’s a familiar premise, sure, but with these two at the helm, “Silent River” has the potential to be more than just another crime procedural.
Andrew Bernstein, whose directorial credits include episodes of “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan,” will also direct and executive produce. Bernstein’s experience with suspenseful storytelling could be crucial in shaping the show’s atmosphere and pacing. Given the talent involved, both in front of and behind the camera, “Silent River” seems like a safe bet for Prime Video.
The series stems from Sunday Night, the production company founded by Krasinski and Allyson Seeger, which recently extended its first-look deal with Amazon MGM Studios. Vernon Sanders, head of television at Amazon MGM Studios, has described “Silent River” as a “gripping series” and a “thought-provoking psychological thriller,” though those are admittedly broad strokes. He also mentioned the show’s exploration of small-town mysteries and secrets, hinting at a narrative that might extend beyond the immediate serial killer plot.
While a premiere date has yet to be announced, the casting and creative team alone are enough to generate some buzz.
