Watch Rectify

Rectify is a gripping drama series that premiered on the Sundance Channel in 2013 and ran for four seasons, concluding in 2016. The show is created by Ray McKinnon and it follows the story of Daniel Holden, a man who is released from prison after serving 19 years on Death Row for the rape and murder of his teenage girlfriend. While awaiting his execution, new DNA evidence is discovered that casts doubt on his conviction, leading to his eventual release. Upon his return to his hometown of Paulie, Georgia, Daniel must navigate an unfamiliar world that has changed drastically since he went away, and he struggles to come to terms with his newfound freedom.

At the center of Rectify is Aden Young's outstanding performance as Daniel Holden. Young's portrayal of the character is nuanced and complex, as he conveys the myriad of conflicting emotions that Daniel experiences upon his release. Daniel is a man who has spent the majority of his adult life in prison, and as a result, he struggles to connect with the outside world. He is haunted by memories of his past and is plagued by feelings of guilt and shame, as he believes that he is responsible for the death of his girlfriend. Young perfectly captures the haunted, fragile nature of Daniel's psyche, and his performance is nothing short of remarkable.

The rest of the cast is equally impressive, with Abigail Spencer delivering a standout performance as Amantha Holden, Daniel's younger sister. Amantha has spent the last 19 years fighting for her brother's release, and her belief in his innocence is unshakable. Spencer brings a fierce intensity to the role, conveying the passion and determination that drives Amantha's quest for justice.

J. Smith-Cameron plays Janet Talbot, Daniel's mother, who is struggling to come to terms with her son's release. Janet is a complex character, torn between her love for her son and her guilt over the past. Smith-Cameron delivers a powerful performance, capturing the character's conflicting emotions perfectly.

Adelaide Clemens plays Tawney Talbot, a young woman who develops a connection with Daniel after meeting him at a local tire shop. Tawney is a deeply religious person who is searching for meaning in her life, and her interactions with Daniel provide a source of hope and comfort for both of them. Clemens delivers a subtle, nuanced performance that perfectly captures the character's vulnerability and longing.

Clayne Crawford plays Ted Talbot Jr., Tawney's husband and the son of a wealthy local businessman. Ted is a complex character, torn between his loyalty to his family and his feelings for Tawney. Crawford delivers a powerful performance, capturing the character's inner turmoil perfectly.

Luke Kirby plays Jon Stern, Daniel's lawyer, who played a crucial role in securing his release from prison. Jon is a smart and driven man, who becomes so invested in Daniel's case that he risks everything to help him. Kirby delivers a nuanced, complex performance that perfectly captures Jon's fierce determination and emotional investment in the case.

Michael O'Neill plays Senator Roland Foulkes, a prominent figure in the town of Paulie who becomes embroiled in Daniel's case. Foulkes is a shrewd politician who is more concerned with his public image than the truth, and O'Neill delivers a chilling performance that perfectly captures the character's slimy, self-serving nature.

Johnny Ray Gill plays Kerwin Whitman, a death row inmate who befriends Daniel in prison. Kerwin is a complex character, with a tragic backstory and a deep understanding of the criminal justice system. Gill delivers a powerful performance, bringing depth and nuance to a character who could have easily been a cliché.

Sean Bridgers, J. D. Evermore, Hal Holbrook, and Robin Mullins round out the cast, delivering excellent performances in their respective roles.

Rectify is a show that is equal parts gripping drama and character study. The show explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the nature of justice, while also delving deep into the psyches of its complex and intriguing characters. The writing is top-notch, with a level of nuance and complexity that is rare in television. The direction is also excellent, with a keen eye for detail and a masterful use of tone and atmosphere. Overall, Rectify is a must-watch for fans of powerful, intelligent drama that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.

Rectify is a series that ran for 4 seasons (31 episodes) between April 22, 2013 and on Sundance Channel