New Netflix Series in 6 Parts Sparks Buzz: Short, Powerful, One-of-a-Kind – Must Watch Now!

Last week, Netflix made a big splash with the release of two series that have been creating a lot of buzz on social media and on AlloCiné: the Spanish drama Ni Una Mas and the thriller Eric, starring Benedict Cumberbatch. The latter is currently the third most-watched title on the streaming platform.

A logical ranking for a series that stands out from other productions by the American giant, due to its subject matter and its slight fantastical twist. Eric takes us back to New York in the 1980s. After his nine-year-old son disappears on his way to school, Vincent (Cumberbatch) launches desperate search efforts. Overwhelmed with self-loathing and guilt, he clings to Eric, a puppet designed by Edgar, convinced that he can bring this blue monster character to life on screen when his son returns.

More than a series about a child’s disappearance, Eric is a snapshot of American society, tackling a range of topics from social crisis to systemic racism to homophobia. This mix seems to have particularly resonated with subscribers.

The Benedict Cumberbatch Slap

With a rating of 3.5/5, the Netflix series may not be at the top of the list but it has generally convinced subscribers (the press gives it an even higher average, of 3.8/5). Here’s a small selection of comments found on the AlloCiné page:

“It’s simply sublime. The father’s character is so different from the usual clichés. A short series to devour. The messages conveyed by this series are subtly presented and show everyone’s role in change. Well done!” (Romain C)

“This series is a true gem of television. The characters are wonderfully developed and their interactions are both authentic and captivating.” (Bruno Couvidoux)

“Great 6-episode series. I had a hard time recognizing the lead actor but it was indeed Benedict Cumb… aka Sherlock” (Wiwi)

“This very noticeable social and psychological darkness is technically well staged. All the actors are excellent. Their performances are very intense. A remarkable series, a true concentration of emotion.” (Lecter_H)

“Ok, another gem from Netflix, 1 month after Ripley (and Andrew Scott). Eric is a near-perfect mini-series. Abi Morgan/Lucy Forbes delivers a powerful, unique, terribly current series (despite the time it is set in) carried by in-tune performers. Superb.” (Tom Ford)

“Very good crime mini-series. Engaging story that doesn’t drag on (6 episodes). Love it” (Laurent b)

“I like Benedict Cumberbatch and that’s why I had high expectations for this series. But I’m only moderately thrilled…” (Françoise Devaux)

Eric, 6 episodes of 50 minutes each, is available to watch on Netflix.