The Assassin Season 1

  

Pack your bags, grab some sunscreen, and maybe duck for cover. The Assassin looks like a dreamy Greek vacation until sniper rifles come out and a deeply awkward mother-son reunion turns into an international manhunt. It’s stylish, ridiculous in the best way, and completely my kind of chaos — so yes, I had thoughts. Here’s my recap and review of AMC+’s latest globe-trotting thrill ride.

The series opens with a pulse-pounding flashback to 1994 in Bulgaria, showing Julie (Keeley Hawes) as a cold, silent, and terrifyingly efficient killer. Fast-forward to the present: Julie is “retired,” living a prickly, isolated life on a remote Greek island.

Her peace? Gone. Enter her estranged son, Edward (Freddie Highmore), not for a vacation but with questions—and a mysterious trust fund—that stir up Julie’s past. Meanwhile, an order for a hit lands on her doorstep. When she refuses, the island explodes into chaos.

A local wedding becomes a massacre. Julie grabs Edward and the local butcher, Luka (Gerald Kyd), and flees. They crash a swanky yacht, only to discover Edward’s fiancée, Kayla, is aboard, and the same woman Julie was just ordered to kill.

Oh, and the twist: Edward isn’t just Julie’s son; he’s the child of a French arms dealer she was hired to assassinate 30 years ago. Instead, she took the baby and raised him as her own. Family drama? Check. International intrigue? Double check.

The Assassin is a riotous, stylish, and deeply entertaining series that really knows how to deliver thrills without losing its playful spirit. Keeley Hawes shines brightly, reaffirming her status as the queen of British TV. With its six exhilarating episodes, the show never lets up, fully embracing the charmingly outrageous style that the Williams Brothers excel at. It's a delightful ride for anyone who loves a clever blend of fun and flair.

Keeley Hawes beautifully captures the essence of a “menopausal James Bond,” delivering sharp wit while effortlessly snapping necks. Freddie Highmore makes a charming counterpart: nervous, slightly annoyed, and hilariously out of his element. The breathtaking Greek scenery, combined with witty dialogue, offers a delightful blend of humor, action, and thrilling adventures across the beautiful Greek islands, the lively streets of Albania, and romantic Paris. The story’s worldwide journey keeps the excitement alive, making every moment truly engaging.

But if you’re in the mood for a spy drama grounded in reality, this might not be the right fit. Julie’s nearly superhero-like abilities could come across as a bit “cheesy” to some, and the sudden jump from family squabbles to intense shootouts might surprise or unsettle some viewers.

Overall, I give this series an 8.7/10.

Have you checked out The Assassin? What are your thoughts on the series? Now that you know Julie actually kidnapped Edward after killing his father, do you believe their relationship can withstand this shocking truth? Or will the “Lazarus” conspiracy pull them apart forever? Are you hoping for a second season? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments! 

You can catch The Assassin on AMC+.