Overview of Butterfly
The action sequence that kicks off the first episode of Butterfly sets a high bar that the series struggles to surpass. While the rest of the episodes aren’t subpar, they lack the same exhilaration. Co-created by Ken Woodruff and novelist Steph Cha, this adaptation of a graphic novel by Arash Amel and Marguerite Bennett is a stylish and engaging spy thriller made even more appealing by its backdrop of South Korea.
Plot Synopsis
Daniel Dae Kim stars as David Jung, a talented superspy who has gone off the radar after a presumed death while working for Caddis, a private security firm he co-founded with fellow operative Juno (Piper Perabo). David seeks to reconnect with his daughter, Rebecca (Reina Hardesty), who has become embroiled in Juno’s worldview during his absence. The revelation that David is alive complicates their reunion.
Character Dynamics
The father-daughter relationship could be the show’s focal point but feels underdeveloped. While David receives ample time for introspection, Rebecca remains defined by her aggression and lethal skills. Hardesty delivers a strong performance but the series sometimes lacks the emotional depth necessary to elevate the story beyond mere action.
Setting and Action Scenes
Seoul serves as a dynamic backdrop, with David and Rebecca traveling to various South Korean cities. The diversity in settings—from towering skyscrapers to intimate eateries—offers numerous opportunities for unique action choreography. Although the blend of family drama and high-paced action evokes comparisons to Alias, it lacks similar emotional resonance and intricate narrativity.
Villainous Complexity
Piper Perabo’s Juno emerges as a compelling antagonist, characterized by a relentless yet nuanced approach. Her layered performance suggests genuine concern for Rebecca while executing morally dubious plans, adding depth to her character. Also featured is Juno’s son, Oliver (Louis Landau), whose inadequacies create further tension within the narrative.
Overall Impression
Butterfly excels in delivering captivating action sequences and maintains a solid pace across its six episodes. The cast’s performances are commendable, especially with Kim in a leading role. While the emotional facets could be better developed, the series lays a promising foundation for potential future seasons. If the second season can effectively build on its initial momentum, Butterfly has the potential to significantly elevate its narrative.
Additional Information
Premiere: All episodes launched on Prime Video on Wednesday, Aug. 13
Cast: Daniel Dae Kim, Piper Perabo, Reina Hardesty
Creators: Ken Woodruff and Steph Cha
For Fans Of: Twisty spy stories that double as travelogues
Episodes Reviewed: 6 of 6
