There’s a certain swagger to ‘Slow Horses,’ a confidence that’s both charming and earned. The Apple TV+ dramedy has been steadily climbing toward greatness since its debut in 2022, delivering three seasons of sharp, entertaining espionage that sets it apart from the pack. Season 4 builds on this foundation, pushing the show into even more violent and personal territory without ever sacrificing the narrative sharpness and darkly humorous tone that defines the series.
This season adapts Mick Herron’s ‘Spook Street,’ following the ragtag group of MI5 rejects at Slough House as they become embroiled in a new conspiracy. The investigation centers around a London shopping mall car bombing and a countryside murder that leads them to the shadowy past of River Cartwright’s (Jack Lowden) grandfather, David (Jonathan Pryce), now battling dementia. The investigation is further complicated by the arrival of Frank Harkness (Hugo Weaving), a former CIA operative with secrets of his own.
The season’s central conspiracy unfolds in typical Herron fashion, spiraling outwards and inwards, with significant repercussions for everyone involved. While the show doesn’t shy away from the twisty nature of the plot, its focus this time around seems to be on the tension between the MI5 and Weaving’s cunning Frank, resulting in some breathtakingly tense sequences, including a particularly gripping late-season ambush.
‘Slow Horses’ continues to excel in its action sequences, proving that it can deliver car chases, shootouts, and fight scenes with a visceral impact that rivals shows with much larger budgets. The show’s willingness to kill off even its most prominent supporting characters adds an element of danger to every confrontation, making the violence feel even more impactful.
Despite the heightened action, the heart of ‘Slow Horses’ remains its characters. The show excels at capturing the messy, acrimonious humanity of its protagonists, and the sharp wit and cynical humor of the dialogue are as sharp as ever. The show’s commitment to showcasing the flaws and vulnerabilities of its characters makes them feel authentic and relatable, even when they’re trapped in the most ludicrous of situations.
Season 4 sees the Cartwrights at the center of the narrative, which means some of the supporting characters, like Saskia Reeves’ Catherine Standish, get less screen time. However, this is a testament to the show’s efficient storytelling. ‘Slow Horses’ maintains a brisk pace throughout, keeping the audience engaged and on the edge of their seats, delivering another season that’s packed with intrigue, action, and humor.
If you’re looking for a show that delivers thrilling entertainment without sacrificing character development or sharp wit, ‘Slow Horses’ is definitely worth your time. The show is consistently captivating, and season 4 is no exception, raising the bar for espionage thrillers and leaving audiences eager for more.
