Luther: The Fallen Sun is an audacious direction for the BBC series “Luther” to take. The show’s focus on the complex antihero John Luther (played by Idris Elba) has introduced a wide range of unhinged villains over its five seasons, from dice-rolling Dungeons & Dragons enthusiasts to lethal heart surgeons and even Satanic blood-drinkers.
In Netflix’s latest production, Luther’s story is taken to new extremes. As a cop with a penchant for violence, Luther’s actions often straddle the line between justice and vigilantism. However, in this feature-length continuation, his questionable methods are justified as he faces off against a cyber-savvy killer portrayed by Andy Serkis. The villain is portrayed as nearly omnipotent, a bombastic force whose exaggerated presence matches the movie’s likely sizable Netflix budget. This latest installment represents a twisted and surreal dive into Luther’s world, surpassing any previous forays into his story.
The Fallen Sun, an episode in the popular TV series Luther, was directed by Jamie Payne and written by the series creator Neil Cross. The show’s trademark nightmare-inducing setup is immediately evident in the opening scene where a young man, Calum, receives a terrifying call from a stranger who blackmails him into driving to an isolated location. However, Calum is confronted by a horrifying and unexpected obstacle that sets the stage for a gripping and suspenseful story.
This unsettling beginning sets the stage for a cat-and-mouse game between Luther and the blackmailer, David Robey, played by the talented actor, Andy Serkis. Robey is a terrifying character, and Serkis’ portrayal of him is strikingly theatrical, complete with some powerfully bad wigs. The show’s real focus, however, is on Robey’s use of the internet to locate and target his victims.
The Fallen Sun is a masterful episode that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats with its combination of suspense, horror, and psychological drama. Through the story, the audience is shown how modern technology can be used to cause unimaginable harm to innocent people. The episode’s gripping narrative and outstanding performances from the cast, particularly Serkis, make it an unforgettable addition to the Luther series and a must-watch for fans of the genre