Arika Lisanne Mittman (Creator), Dan Ariely (Book)

CAST
Jesse L. Martin
Maahra Hill
Travina Springer
Molly Kunz
Arash DeMaxi
Karen David

Review

In the crowded genre of police procedurals, The Irrational emerges as a breath of fresh-ish air, merging the intriguing world of behavioral psychology with the gritty realities of law enforcement. Created by Arika Lisanne Mittman (Timeless, Dexter, Elementary, Legend of the Seeker) and inspired by Dan Ariely’s groundbreaking non-fiction book Predictably Irrational, this series embarks on an explorative journey into the depths of human decision-making through the eyes of Alec Mercer (played by Jesse L. Martin), a distinguished professor of behavioral psychology. Mercer’s expertise becomes a beacon of hope in solving complex cases for governments, corporations, and the police.

The Irrational excels in delivering episodes that are as engaging as they are intellectually stimulating. The series manages to distill complex concepts of forensic psychology into digestible pieces of drama without compromising the integrity of the science. This delicate balance keeps the narrative both accessible and compelling. Martin leads an exceptional cast that brings depth and levity to the storylines, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

The Research Assistants, Phoebe and Rizwan, and Alec’s sister Kylie are favorites of mine, they add layers of personal and professional dynamics that enrich the overall narrative of the series. These relationships provide a window into Alec’s world beyond his professional expertise, offering glimpses of vulnerability and personal growth. The characters’ development is quite good, with each episode peeling back layers, revealing motivations, and showcasing a trajectory that promises even more depth in future seasons.

While the series might remind some viewers of Instinct (2018) for its focus on behavior and psychology intertwined with police procedural elements, The Irrational establishes its unique identity. It stands out for its varied and entertaining cases that not only challenge Mercer’s expertise but also engage our curiosity and empathy. The show’s ability to maintain this variety is a testament to its creative writing and innovative direction.

By the end of the first season, the show has laid a solid foundation for character development and narrative intrigue. The trajectory of the characters and the evolving complexity of the cases they tackle suggest interesting stories yet to be explored. The Irrational offers a promising new direction, blending the cerebral appeal of behavioral psychology with the draw of a well-crafted crime drama. Fans of the genre and newcomers alike will find something to appreciate in this engaging, thought-provoking in a Doug Sharpe “Fun Fact” kind of way.

If you’re interested in the source material, help us by getting them from the links below: