Streaming on Netflix
If you're a fan of sleek spy dramas with just a bit of grit and an awful lot of heart, you should definitely check out Netflix's Black Doves. From the mind of Joe Barton, it stars Keira Knightley as Helen Webb, a spy juggling a double life, and Ben Whishaw as Sam, an assassin who is equal parts deadly and endearing. With its blend of sharp writing, intense action, and emotional depth, Black Doves is as binge-worthy as it gets.
Helen appears to live the perfect life: married to a high-ranking politician, mother to two kids, and dwelled in a swanky house. Of course, nothing is easy in this world. She was, in fact, a secret spy for a mysterious team known as the Black Doves. Her life tumbles downhill when her secret boyfriend gets killed, dragging her into this world of conspiracy and doom.
In steps Sam, an assassin with a past of his own making, who teams up with Helen to unravel the mystery. Together they must find their way through crime bosses, betrayal, and never-ending danger amidst their personal baggage.
Keira Knightley is totally a powerhouse as Helen. She nails the duality of her character-one moment she is a loving mom, and the next she is taking down bad guys with precision. There is this epic scene in a jewelry store where she is dressed to the nines but goes full action-hero mode. It is a chef's-kiss kind of moment.
Ben Whishaw, though, is the show-stealer. His character, Sam, is such a fun mix—he’s a deadly assassin who somehow manages to be soft-spoken, sarcastic, and genuinely relatable. You’ll root for him even as he’s taking people out left and right.
Supporting cast does not disappoint. Sarah Lancashire plays Reed, the unyielding boss of the Black Doves, and dry and cutting lines are pure gold. Andrew Koji brings an air of vulnerability as doomed lover Jason to Helen. Ella Lily Hyland provides that just right amount of comic relief as the quirky assassin.
The beauty of Black Doves is that it finds the right balance between the action and moments of humor and emotion. Fight scenes are slick, almost like watching a dance, but the show doesn't overdo it. There's just enough downtime for you to connect with the characters.
The comedy is on point as well. Sam's deadpan one-liners and Helen's sarcasm never allow things to become too serious. Even amidst chaos, the repartee always seems genuine and is an excellent way to bring a lighter element into things.
Essentially, Black Doves is about people, flawed, complicated, and doing their best to survive impossible situations. You feel for Helen as she tries to protect her family amidst a life of danger and deception. You realize why Sam is the way he is, even though his choices are sometimes dubious.
The show does great work building its world, from the feel of its living, breathing underground networks of spies and assassins, the serious John Wick and Guy Ritchie vibes but with a distinctly British twist.
Is It Worth Watching?
Absolutely. Black Doves is thrilling, stylish, and surprisingly emotional. The first season ends on a cliffhanger that will leave you yelling at your screen and Googling when season two is coming.
So, if you’re looking for a show with slick action, standout performances, and characters that stay with you, Black Doves should be at the top of your list. It’s perfect for a weekend binge. Grab the popcorn—you’re in for a ride.
Binge Living Rating: 4/5
Watch Official Trailer of Black Doves released by Netflix: