Mindhunter review: Mindhunter is a psychological crime thriller TV series developed by Joe Penhall, based on the true-crime book Mindhunter: Inside the FBI’s Elite Serial Crime Unit by John E. Douglas and Mark Olshaker. Set in the late 1970s and early 1980s, the series explores the early days of criminal psychology and criminal profiling at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), focusing on the development of the Behavioral Science Unit (BSU). The show, which debuted on Netflix in October 2017, quickly became a fan favorite for its dark tone, intricate storytelling, and meticulous exploration of human psychology.
The series revolves around FBI agents Holden Ford (played by Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany), alongside psychologist Wendy Carr (Anna Torv). These characters form the backbone of the BSU, which attempts to understand the minds of serial killers to solve ongoing investigations. What sets Mindhunter apart from other crime dramas is its slow-burn pacing, atmospheric tension, and deep dive into the psyche of some of the most notorious killers in U.S. history.
A New Take on the Crime Genre
Unlike conventional crime series that rely on action-packed sequences, shootouts, and fast-paced investigations, Mindhunter is much more restrained. The show thrives on long, unsettling conversations between agents and criminals, offering a more cerebral and psychological approach. The interview sequences, particularly with real-life killers like Edmund Kemper, Dennis Rader (the BTK Killer), and Richard Speck, are the heart of the show. These tense, dialogue-heavy scenes showcase how FBI agents study their subjects, decoding their behavioral patterns, motivations, and triggers to predict and prevent future crimes.
One of the primary strengths of Mindhunter is its ability to humanize the monsters it portrays. These serial killers, while terrifying, are shown as deeply flawed, often broken individuals shaped by abuse, neglect, or mental illness. The writing and direction, largely overseen by David Fincher (best known for films like Se7en and Fight Club), manage to evoke a strange empathy for these characters, without ever justifying their crimes. The careful balance between understanding and condemnation is one of the most compelling aspects of the show.
Character Development: Holden Ford and Bill Tench
The two main characters, Holden Ford and Bill Tench, are contrasting figures, which adds complexity to the show. Holden, the younger, more idealistic agent, is fascinated by the minds of killers and is driven by a need to understand them on a deep psychological level. He is innovative and often willing to push ethical boundaries in his pursuit of knowledge. Throughout the series, Holden’s obsession with the work becomes more pronounced, impacting his mental health and personal life. Jonathan Groff’s portrayal of Holden captures the agent’s evolving psychological state, as his once-clear vision becomes clouded by moral ambiguity and emotional detachment.
On the other hand, Bill Tench is a more seasoned and pragmatic agent, serving as a counterbalance to Holden’s idealism. Tench represents the old guard of law enforcement, where procedures and rules were followed strictly, and criminal behavior was seen in black-and-white terms. However, as the series progresses, Tench is forced to reconsider his rigid views as he is exposed to the complexities of criminal psychology. Holt McCallany’s performance as Tench is nuanced, showcasing the character’s internal struggles as he grapples with the impact of his work on his personal life. Tench’s strained relationship with his wife and their adopted son adds another layer of emotional depth to his character arc.
Together, Ford and Tench’s dynamic is at the heart of the show. While they often disagree, their partnership is crucial to the BSU’s development and success. The tension between Holden’s academic curiosity and Tench’s street-level pragmatism creates a compelling push-pull dynamic that drives much of the narrative.
Wendy Carr: The Intellectual Voice
Dr. Wendy Carr, portrayed by Anna Torv, adds a vital intellectual dimension to Mindhunter. Based on real-life psychologist Dr. Ann Wolbert Burgess, Carr is a consultant for the BSU, helping the agents to systematize their findings and develop profiles of serial killers. Wendy’s character is cold and analytical, offering a stark contrast to the emotionally-driven Holden and the practical-minded Bill. Her role highlights the importance of data, research, and academic rigor in criminal profiling.
However, Wendy is not without her own personal challenges. In the second season, her struggles with her identity as a lesbian woman in the 1970s add depth to her character, portraying her as someone who must navigate the complexities of personal and professional life in a male-dominated and socially conservative environment. Her character’s personal journey subtly mirrors the BSU’s fight for legitimacy within the FBI, as both struggle to be taken seriously in their respective fields.
A Dark and Brooding Atmosphere
David Fincher’s signature style is all over Mindhunter, from its bleak color palette to its unnerving score. The series immerses viewers in a world of grim realities, where the line between good and evil is often blurred. The show’s cinematography is meticulous, often framing characters in confined spaces to heighten the sense of psychological tension. This claustrophobic visual style, combined with Fincher’s slow, deliberate pacing, creates an atmosphere that is as much a character in the show as Holden, Bill, or Wendy.
The depiction of 1970s America is also a critical component of the show’s atmosphere. From the authentic period details, such as the technology, clothing, and cars, to the portrayal of the societal attitudes of the time, Mindhunter is a vivid exploration of the era. The series subtly addresses the cultural and political backdrop of the late 20th century, including issues like racism, sexism, and the changing nature of law enforcement.
A Critique of Society
At its core, Mindhunter is not just about serial killers but also about society’s response to violence and deviance. The show delves into the institutional resistance faced by the BSU, with the FBI initially viewing criminal psychology and profiling as “soft science.” The skepticism and outright hostility from more traditional law enforcement figures highlight the challenges of pioneering new methods in a bureaucratic and conservative organization.
Furthermore, the series subtly critiques the media and public’s fascination with serial killers. As Holden becomes more engrossed in his work, he mirrors society’s morbid curiosity with these figures. The ethical dilemma of whether studying and publicizing serial killers makes them famous, thereby encouraging others to follow in their footsteps, is an underlying theme throughout the show.
The BTK Killer Subplot
One of the most intriguing elements of Mindhunter is the slow-burn subplot involving Dennis Rader, also known as the BTK Killer. Throughout both seasons, the series offers glimpses of Rader’s life, showing him in his mundane day-to-day existence while committing heinous acts. This subplot, while not fully explored in the first two seasons, adds an extra layer of tension and anticipation. It leaves viewers wondering how the BSU will eventually catch up with Rader and when his story will intersect with the main plot.
Conclusion
Mindhunter is a masterful exploration of the dark corners of the human psyche and the criminal mind. It offers a fresh take on the crime genre, focusing more on psychological depth and character development than on action or suspense. With its rich storytelling, complex characters, and atmospheric direction, Mindhunter stands as one of the best crime dramas of the last decade. While the show has been put on indefinite hold after its second season, its impact on the genre and its exploration of the human condition continues to resonate with audiences.