‘Manhunt’ Limited Series Review – Apple TV+’s Compelling And Thrilling Hunt For Abraham Lincoln’s Killer

Four American presidents have been assassinated throughout this country’s history. Out of those four, Abraham Lincoln’s assassination at the hands of John Wilkes Booth continues to intrigue both historians and everyday people alike. Some movies and TV shows are more compelling than others and as someone interested in the history of the United States, I’ll almost always watch something about the 16th president.

Apple TV+ offers a new look into the aftermath of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination with the miniseries Manhunt. Created by showrunner Monica Beletsky, this show is adapted from James L. Swanson’s book Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln’s Killer. The first two episodes are currently out on Apple TV+ right now; there are seven episodes to the show in total.

The show focuses on Edwin Stanton, played by Tobias Menzies, who is unwavering in his pursuit of justice. Stanton was Lincoln’s secretary of war and close friend, so you can feel the urge and dedication Stanton has in bringing the killer of his friend in. Stanton and his team search for John Wilkes Booth, who is portrayed by Anthony Boyle. Menzies’ performance offers viewers a nuanced side to his character, while Boyle adds depth to Booth. Both are flawed, questioning their own moral resolve, while incredibly driven by individual motivations. It’s a cat-and-mouse game that keeps viewers on their toes.

Manhunt is more than just a show about Lincoln’s assassination. It not only tackles the political issues and ramifications of a post-Lincoln-assassination America, but it takes on the struggles of a post-Civil War country, as well as the Reconstruction era. It is a thought-provoking miniseries that essentially acts as a character study for all those depicted. The show does a good job of showcasing the events of America at the time, while not sensationalizing them or embellishing them in a manner that takes the show from non-fiction to fiction.

Hamish Linklater portrays Abraham Lincoln in flashbacks and he provides a good take on the character, offering viewers Lincoln’s point of view in the time leading up to his assassination. It should be said that the overuse of prosthetics is somewhat distracting at times – taking viewers away from Linklater’s performance. Obviously, Lincoln has a distinct look and it is important when you’re doing a historical piece to have a well-known figure be recognizable. However, this sometimes can work against a project and there are times when not using prosthetics or CGI works better in their favor. Some of the dialogue can also be wooden, but overall, Linklater is a good actor and he does well with what he is given.

Overall, if you’re a history buff or enjoy a good political thriller, you should check out Manhunt. The performances are done well, it has a compelling storyline, and there are themes in it that feel relatable even today. It’s clear that this is a well-put-together show that isn’t simply using the fact that it’s based around Lincoln’s assassination as a quick and easy cash grab.

Manhunt is currently available to stream on Apple TV+. New episodes will debut every Friday through April 19, 2024. 

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFT-b8eKdSo]