Netflix star's dark thriller perfect for crime addicts that's 'better than the book'

Netflix's new limited series Black Rabbit has one of its stars featuring in another gripping thriller, hailed as a 'masterclass in suspense'.

Launched today (September 18), Black Rabbit is the latest significant addition to the streaming giant's ever-evolving library. The eight-part series sees Jason Bateman and Jude Law take on the lead roles as brothers.

Bateman portrays the unruly sibling who pulls his successful restaurateur brother into New York's criminal underworld after he unexpectedly returns to town with loan sharks hot on his heels.

This character is a stark departure from the comedic roles Bateman was previously known for in shows like Arrested Development and the Will Smith superhero film Hancock.

However, the actor is no stranger to more sombre material. Netflix viewers will undoubtedly recognise him from the platform's popular series Ozark, some episodes of which Bateman also directed.

Fans of that show have likely been eagerly awaiting the release of Black Rabbit, reports the Mirror.

But the star has another dark thriller that fans should definitely check out. Based on the Stephen King novel of the same name, The Outsider features Bateman as Terry Maitland, a suburban parent accused of a horrific murder.

Detective Ralph Anderson, portrayed by Star Wars actor Ben Mendelsohn, grapples with solving the peculiar case as he stumbles upon some contradictory evidence. Initially, the investigation appears to be simple and straightforward, but things soon take a turn.

Hints of otherworldly elements prompt the detectives to doubt everything they hold dear.

Wicked sensation Cynthia Erivo also stars as Holly Gibney, a figure who crops up across numerous Stephen King tales.

With an impressive 91% score on Rotten Tomatoes, both critics and audiences are singing the show's praises.

One enthusiast sharing their verdict online wrote: "Stephen King adaptations can be hit or miss, but HBO's The Outsider is a resounding, terrifying success."

They added: "From its chilling opening to its ambiguous yet satisfying conclusion, this series is a masterclass in suspense, atmospheric horror and psychological dread, pulling you in with an unrelenting grip and refusing to let go long after the credits roll."

Meanwhile another was bold enough to declare: "Best Stephen King adaptation hands down. Really well done with the exact right amounts in the mix of horror, supernatural-ness, feel-good alliance-making, and humanness. This series has it all... AND some police-procedural elements added in for you crime/mystery addicts as well."

Hinting it might appeal more to audiences who aren't fond of Black Rabbit's tempo, they concluded: "The pace is good - not so heavy on the slow-burn tact other shows are using that leave you irritated you are watching your life pass you by."

Another viewer praised Bateman as a crucial element in the show's success, commenting: "I think this show is a rare instance of the movie/show is better than the book, especially for a Stephen King flick. Usually his books are much better than the movies.

"But thanks to the hard work of Jason Bateman and all the actors, they make this show come alive in a way that the book just didn't do for me."

Black Rabbit is streaming on Netflix while The Outsider is streaming on Sky Atlantic and NOW.