Show Spy is a TVSA column that uncovers must-watch international shows. This column keeps you scooped on international series that get our thumbs-up! to help you choose what to watch from the huge selection of international shows available across multiple platforms.
If you're in the mood for a gripping, addictive psychological thriller, I'd highly recommend losing yourself in Stephen King's Mr. Mercedes.
The first season premieres on M-Net City this Saturday (6 October) at 22h00, following a run on M-Net. The second season started on M-Net this week and airs on Mondays at 23h05.
The series is based on Stephen King's trilogy of books, which follows the mental, emotional and physical troubles faced by retired detective Bill Hodges (Brendan Gleeson), who becomes obsessed with taking down psychopath Brady Hartsfield (Harry Treadaway) a.k.a. Mr Mercedes.
Brady becomes known by this name after he murders 16 people by mowing them down in a stolen Mercedes, which sparks a crazy mind game between Bill and Brady when they become obsessed with each other.
Bill becomes obsessed with catching Brady to destroy his madness and Brady wants to defeat Bill while bragging about his deadly "achievements" which make him feel seen and validated.
They get into each other's minds and the series follows the insane consequences.
The story and acting are excellent, each character has distinctive, memorable qualities and the script matches the style perfectly. It's got a humour to it that gives quirky relief to the darkness of Brady's twisted soul.
The storyline includes a shocking exploration of incest - Brady and his mother - the most honest and in-your-face depiction of incest I've ever seen on TV. It's craaaaaazy and makes you freak out.
Ultimately the series makes you think about who’s in your head and who controls your mind. Where does the power over your mind lie? In you or in someone else?
This idea is extended in a radical way in Season 2, which follows on directly from Season 1.
So let me take a step into your mind right now.... *
think haunted voice*... Watch. The. Show.
If you dare.
Here's a trailer...