A First Look at "Before": Billy Crystal Stars in Atmospheric Psychological Thriller for Apple TV+

Images: Apple TV Press

By Jon Donnis

Apple TV+ is set to premiere Before, a captivating 10-episode psychological thriller starring the legendary Billy Crystal. The series, which delves into the supernatural and the intricacies of the human psyche, will launch globally on Friday, October 25, with the first two episodes available immediately, followed by weekly releases through December 20.

Before marks a significant return to television for Crystal, who not only stars in the series but also serves as an executive producer. Known for his extensive career as an actor, comedian, and filmmaker, Crystal takes on the role of Eli, a child psychiatrist grappling with the recent loss of his wife, Lynn, portrayed by the multi-Emmy and Tony Award-winning Judith Light (Transparent). As Eli navigates his grief, he encounters a young boy named Noah (Jacobi Jupe, Peter Pan & Wendy), whose mysterious connection to Eli's past becomes increasingly unsettling.

The series promises to blend psychological tension with elements of the supernatural. As Eli delves deeper into Noah's troubled psyche, the bond between them intensifies, uncovering secrets that may have been better left buried. The show explores themes of memory, loss, and the eerie ways the past can resurface, challenging the boundaries of reality and the mind.

Joining Crystal and Light in this atmospheric thriller are an impressive ensemble cast, including Academy Award nominee Rosie Perez (The Flight Attendant), Tony Award nominee Maria Dizzia (Orange Is the New Black), and rising star Ava Lalezarzadeh (In the Garden of Tulips). The series boasts a lineup of notable talents both in front of and behind the camera, promising a richly textured narrative experience.

Created by Sarah Thorp (The Bounty Hunter), Before hails from Paramount Television Studios. Thorp, who also serves as the showrunner and executive producer, has crafted a narrative that intertwines the eerie with the emotional, challenging viewers to question the nature of reality. The series' executive production team includes Academy Award winner Eric Roth (Killers of the Flower Moon, Dune), who brings his storytelling prowess to the project. Adam Bernstein (Silo, Billions) directs the pilot episode, setting the tone for the series' atmospheric visuals and suspenseful pacing. Jet Wilkinson (The Chi, Truth Be Told) joins as the producing director, further ensuring the show's high-quality production values.

Before represents a unique entry into the psychological thriller genre, with Crystal's involvement signaling a blend of nuanced drama and dark intrigue. As the series explores the shadows of the human mind, viewers can expect a gripping journey into the unknown.

Mark your calendars for the global premiere of Before on Apple TV+ on October 25, and prepare for a season of chilling revelations and emotional depth. The series' weekly release schedule will build anticipation, leading up to a dramatic conclusion on December 20. With its stellar cast and creative team, Before is poised to be one of the standout television events of the year.