Published on March 31, 2026
I took my time watching “Ozark” because I tend to be lazy when it comes to starting a series with multiple seasons and a heavy load of episodes. I thought I could alternate each season with other series. However, that proved completely impossible; it created such an addiction that I ended up binge-watching all 44 episodes consecutively. In fact, having all the episodes available was advantageous compared to those who followed the show week-to-week. The result is that I am left feeling like I have watched one of the best series of this century.
How many series are pitched as the next “Game of Thrones” or the new “Stranger Things,” only to fall far short? However, this one, which was marketed as the new “Breaking Bad,” truly lives up to that comparison, while also carving its own path. The narrative parallels, both initial and developmental, are more than evident. And it must be said, no matter how sacrilegious it may sound to some, that while it may not surpass the series starring Bryan Cranston, it at least matches it in quality. One possible advantage is that “Ozark” is engaging from the very first episode of the first season, whereas “Breaking Bad” really took off in its third season. Not to mention the pacing of “Ozark,” which is incredibly high, filled with twists that are clever rather than contrived, thanks to a robust and brilliant script that flawlessly weaves together all those narrative shifts, making each episode—many of which exceed an hour in runtime—fly by, as there isn’t a single one that feels like filler or mere transition.
The script ensures that character evolution remains constant, allowing the cast to shine as their story arcs are rich and complex. The level of acting is exceptional, both from the main and supporting actors, whether they appear in forty episodes or just a few. Jason Bateman is magnificent. However, Laura Linney may be even better. Julia Garner’s remarkable achievement is especially noteworthy; amidst such talented co-stars delivering their best performances, she manages to shine brightly, transitioning from a supporting character to a co-lead who gradually claims ownership of the series. While the Byrdes (Marty and Wendy) maintain control, we have all come to adore Ruth Langmore, thanks to a truly wonderful performance from Julia Garner, who has taken home three Emmys and a Golden Globe over four seasons. It wouldn’t be surprising if she adds another trophy to her collection soon.
Anyone can die in this series, and they can do so at any moment. In fact, it features one of the cruelest, most painful, and darkest conclusions I have ever seen on television. The deaths are utterly shocking—not necessarily due to their unpredictability (some are, but most can be anticipated) but because of the manner in which they occur, presented in a stark, unembellished fashion, much like how they would happen in real life. Throughout the series, the so-called curse of the Langmores is often mentioned. While it’s true that fate is unkind to that family, the true curse lies with the Byrdes. Like Attila’s horse, nothing grows back in their wake. Since their arrival in the Ozarks, they take over businesses and manipulate their owners, resulting in the death of many. Although they initially operate at others’ expense, it is Marty and Wendy Byrde who emerge as the true villains of this story. Unlike Walter White (Bryan Cranston), who finds redemption at the end of “Breaking Bad,” the Byrdes cannot curb their ambitions or their moral decline.
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