HBO is set to launch its latest prestige crime series, “Task,” this Sunday, September 7, at 9 p.m. EST, featuring Virginia Beach native and four-time Oscar nominee Mark Ruffalo in the role of an FBI agent. The series marks a return to the gritty, character-driven storytelling that fans of “Mare of Easttown” have come to cherish, with showrunner Brad Ingelsby at the helm.
Set against the backdrop of small-town Pennsylvania, “Task” follows FBI agent Tom Brandis, portrayed by Ruffalo, who is grappling with personal loss while leading a task force targeting a local biker gang involved in drug trafficking across Delaware County. The series explores intense turf wars, mounting violence, and moral dilemmas faced by law enforcement and criminals alike.
The ensemble cast features Emmy-winning actress Martha Plimpton as Kathleen McGinty, Ruffalo’s seasoned FBI supervisor, whose sharp wit and depth add layers to the narrative. Supporting roles include Tom Pelphrey as Robbie Prendergast, a dedicated family man and criminal who commits a chilling robbery wearing a skeleton mask, and Emilia Jones as Maeve Prendergast, a rebellious young relative eager to escape her small-town confines. The series also introduces Isaach de Bankolé as a philosophical priest, adding a nuanced layer to the storyline.
Visually, “Task” distinguishes itself with a more polished aesthetic than Ingelsby’s previous work, employing earth-toned cinematography reminiscent of David Fincher’s style. The series blends procedural tension with intimate family dramas, emphasizing the emotional toll of moral compromises. Ruffalo and Pelphrey’s characters are both haunted by their past losses, setting up a compelling collision course.
Ingelsby’s storytelling excels in subtle character development and meticulous world-building. His careful use of dialogue and visual cues conveys a rich backstory, making the characters more authentic and relatable. Fans of classic HBO crime dramas such as “The Wire” and “The Sopranos” will likely find “Task” a worthy addition to their watchlist.
Drawing inspiration from Michael Mann’s “Heat,” the series promises a fast-paced, atmospheric thriller that combines action with psychological depth. Critics and viewers can anticipate a series that not only entertains but also probes the moral ambiguities faced by those enforcing and breaking the law.
“Task” premieres on HBO and Max this Sunday at 9 p.m. EST. The network has released an official trailer showcasing the series’ intense storytelling and cinematic quality.