Prime Video has unveiled a dramatic first look at its upcoming thriller The Assassin, offering audiences a glimpse of Keeley Hawes and Freddie Highmore in a story that blends espionage with family drama, all against the striking backdrop of a Greek island. The highly anticipated series has already generated buzz among critics and viewers alike, with early reactions noting its fresh take on the spy thriller genre.
The show follows Julie (Hawes), a retired hitwoman who has painstakingly built a quiet new life, only to be forced back into the shadows when her dangerous past resurfaces. Highmore plays Edward, her adult son, who finds himself pulled into a world he barely understands — one filled with secrets, betrayal, and danger at every turn. While the plot promises suspense and intrigue, what sets The Assassin apart is its focus on the bond between mother and son, creating a personal and emotional core amid the action.
The Greek setting immediately adds to the show’s allure. From windswept coastlines to sunlit villages, the island landscapes provide a striking contrast to the story’s darker themes. Producers have hinted that the location is more than just a backdrop; it becomes integral to the series’ atmosphere, heightening both its beauty and its tension. In an era when many thrillers rely heavily on urban settings, the decision to root The Assassin in such a picturesque yet isolating environment adds a distinctive edge.
The first-look images and trailers highlight the intensity between Hawes and Highmore. Hawes, known for her commanding roles in Bodyguard and Line of Duty, brings both strength and vulnerability to Julie, a woman torn between the instinct to protect her son and the violence of her former life. Highmore, fresh off his seven-season run on The Good Doctor, shifts gears entirely to play Edward, a character caught in a moral gray zone. Their chemistry, at once tense and tender, promises to anchor the series in authentic emotion.
Critics who have previewed the show are already praising its mix of suspense and humanity. Radio Times described it as “stylish and tightly written,” while early Rotten Tomatoes scores have soared to 90%, placing The Assassin among Prime Video’s best-reviewed recent dramas. For fans of shows like Killing Eve or The Night Manager, this new series is shaping up to be a must-watch.
Beyond the buzz, The Assassin also marks a significant career milestone for its stars. For Hawes, it is another chance to prove her status as one of Britain’s most versatile actresses. For Highmore, it represents a bold post-Good Doctor move into darker, more unpredictable territory. Both actors bring international appeal, ensuring that the show will resonate with a global audience.
With its dramatic setting, compelling leads, and gripping storyline, The Assassin looks poised to become one of Prime Video’s standout hits of the year. The first look has already set expectations sky-high, and if the series delivers on its promise, viewers are in for a thriller that is as breathtaking as the island on which it is set.
