Prime Target is a new Apple TV+ series that premiered on January 22, 2025. This eight-episode thriller stars Leo Woodall—yep, the guy from The White Lotus—as a math genius tangled in a conspiracy that’s as wild as it is entertaining. It’s got action, twists, and a slick look that makes it a contender for your next streaming pick. So, settle in, and let’s break it down—spoiler-free, naturally.
The Setup: Numbers and Nightmares
The story follows Edward Brooks (Woodall), a Cambridge post-grad obsessed with prime numbers. Sounds dull, but hear me out—he’s about to crack a formula that could unlock every digital system on Earth. Think of it as the skeleton key to the internet. Predictably, this puts a bullseye on his back, drawing the attention of shadowy figures who’d rather see his work vanish than succeed. Enter Taylah Sanders (Quintessa Swindell), an NSA agent who’s been keeping tabs on math geeks from her base in France. When their paths collide, it’s a race against time, bullets, and betrayal.
It all kicks off with a bang—an explosion in Baghdad uncovers an ancient chamber, sparking a mystery that spans continents. From Cambridge’s old-world charm to Paris streets and Moroccan deserts, the show’s got that high-stakes, globe-hopping feel of a spy thriller. The twist? The MacGuffin here is a math equation. It’s an oddball hook, but it’s quirky enough to keep you intrigued.
The Vibe: Fast, Flashy, Fun
Prime Target blends the brainy edge of Good Will Hunting with the pulse of The Bourne Identity—minus the endless chalkboard scenes, plus more chase sequences. It’s got that Apple TV+ sheen, meaning it looks sharp and moves quick, ideal if you’re not into slow, brooding dramas. The action’s not overblown like a blockbuster car pile-up, but there’s enough tension—think car chases and near-misses—to keep things lively. Woodall brings a scruffy charisma to Edward, making him easy to root for, even when he’s a bit of a prick.
The show’s got a relatable streak too. Edward’s not your standard hero—he’s awkward, stubborn, and glued to his notebooks. But when he teams up with bartender Adam (Fra Fee) or gets dragged into Taylah’s chaos, he starts to click. It’s got that “everyday guy in over his head” energy that lands well.
The Highlights: What Hits
The cast is a big win. Woodall owns the screen as Edward, balancing smarts with a jittery edge that feels authentic. Swindell’s Taylah is a perfect foil—tough, sharp, and just reckless enough to shake things up. Their dynamic isn’t forced into romance (a relief), but leans into a solid partner-in-crime vibe. David Morrissey’s Robert Mallinder, Edward’s enigmatic professor, adds a layer of intrigue—you’re never sure if he’s friend or foe. Sidse Babett Knudsen as an archaeologist and Martha Plimpton as an NSA heavy hitter round out a crew that keeps it interesting without hogging the spotlight.
Visually, it’s a stunner. Apple’s clearly shelled out for this one—think moody Cambridge shots cutting to sun-baked Moroccan vistas. There’s a chase in episode three through a bustling market that’s so tightly shot you can almost smell the spices. Pacing-wise, it’s mostly snappy—45-minute episodes that don’t dawdle. The cliffhangers are proper hooks, daring you to hit “next episode” every time.
Twists are a strong suit too. The plot keeps you on your toes—Mallinder’s motives, the Baghdad link, the real players behind the hunt for Edward. It’s not the deepest puzzle box, but it’s got enough curveballs to stay engaging. And there’s some quotable gold—“Math nerds are the most dangerous people on the planet” lands with a smirk, even if it’s played straight.
The Rough Spots: Where It Wobbles
Not everything adds up perfectly. The core idea—prime numbers as a world-ending threat—is cool but flimsy if you poke at it. The show tosses around jargon like “prime finder” without much explanation, banking on you just nodding along. If you’re a stickler for airtight logic, it might grate.
The writing’s hit-and-miss. When it’s on, it’s crisp—Edward and Taylah’s back-and-forth has bite. But it occasionally veers into cheesy territory, with characters dropping heavy-handed lines about truth and power that feel like they’re auditioning for a different show. Edward’s genius tag doesn’t always hold up either—he misses obvious red flags too often. Taylah’s backstory, tied to some vague guilt, feels like an afterthought.
Pacing takes a dip mid-series. After a hot start, it settles into a loop of “Edward scribbles, bad guys chase” that drags a bit. The conspiracy gets murky—too many players, not enough clarity. It rebounds late, but that middle stretch might have you glancing at your watch.
The Takeaway: Does It Deliver?
So, is Prime Target worth your time? If you’re after a sleek thriller with a solid cast and a knack for surprises, it’s a yes. It’s not flawless—the plot’s a bit out there, and it stumbles here and there—but it’s got the goods to keep you hooked. It’s a polished, punchy ride that’s easy to sink into, especially if you’re in the mood for something that doesn’t demand too much heavy lifting.
It’s not rewriting the genre, but it doesn’t need to. It’s got style, a few thrills, and enough momentum to carry you through eight episodes. Woodall and Swindell are a draw, and the visuals alone make it feel like a cut above your average streaming fare. It’s a solid pick for a night when you want entertainment that hits without overcomplicating things.
Final Verdict
Prime Target is a slick, twist-filled romp that’s more about the ride than the destination. It’s got the looks, the hooks, and the energy to keep you watching, even if it doesn’t always solve its own equation. If you’re scrolling for something fresh and fun, this one’s got enough going for it to warrant a look—just don’t expect it to blow your mind.
