THE TERMINAL LIST. One of the best series in recent years

Chris Pratt has accustomed viewers to playing charismatic adventurers who overcome every obstacle and top it off with a witty one-liner—perfect protagonists for light, popcorn-style films like Guardians of the Galaxy or Jurassic World. It’s hard to picture him in a more serious role. However, in The Terminal List, where he portrays James Reece, a Navy SEAL team commander, he proves that he can handle more dramatic material just as well.

The series is based on the book of the same name by Jack Carr, a former Navy SEAL (who also served as a sniper) and who has captured the elite unit’s operations with great authenticity. The novel was a commercial success, quickly catching the attention of filmmakers. Alongside Pratt, Antoine Fuqua—an acclaimed director known for Training Day and the Equalizer trilogy—took on the role of producer and directed the first episode. With such strong source material, an experienced filmmaker, and a charismatic lead, the result is a gripping thriller packed with tension and surprises. However, the show takes a moment to gain momentum—the first episode serves as an extended introduction—but its finale hits hard, and from then on, the story moves at full speed until the very end.

James Reece’s character reminds me of The Punisher, one of my favorite comic book heroes. With a few tweaks, The Terminal List could almost be a Marvel adaptation of the vigilante’s story. The show is a masterclass in revenge-driven storytelling, which fundamentally requires only two things: a solid motivation for the protagonist and a villain the audience loves to hate. The first aspect is particularly well-executed—Reece couldn’t have a stronger reason for hunting down his enemies. And there are quite a few names on his hit list.

The series belongs to Pratt, who drives every event forward and delivers a performance that feels genuinely convincing. His preparation for the role is evident—it’s easy to believe that Reece is a seasoned operative who has been through countless tough missions. While the character is vastly different from Pratt’s usual roles, he portrays him just as convincingly as his more lighthearted counterparts. As the story unfolds, the stakes rise, and the challenges Reece faces become increasingly difficult. The first season (with a second already confirmed) forms a complete and engaging story with no dull moments. Even the typical “filler episode” that often drags down TV series is enjoyable and doesn’t feel unnecessary.

Alongside Pratt, the cast includes Jeanne Tripplehorn as a high-ranking politician, Constance Wu as a relentless journalist, and the excellent Taylor Kitsch as Reece’s loyal friend. The writers have done a great job depicting the brotherhood among elite soldiers—you can feel their unwavering trust and willingness to sacrifice for one another. A pleasant surprise was Jai Courtney, whom I usually dislike, as he has been involved in the decline of several beloved franchises (Die Hard and Terminator). However, here he plays a solid role—perhaps because he’s cast as a complete jerk?

The Terminal List is one of the best series in recent years. It’s serious, almost entirely devoid of humor, yet brimming with tension. And let’s be honest—there’s something satisfying about seeing despicable villains get what they deserve. Reece doesn’t hold back, and the show doesn’t shy away from brutality. I can’t wait for season two!

Written by Piotr Zymelka