Watch Under the Banner of Heaven

Under the Banner of Heaven is a gripping and thought-provoking limited series that aired on Hulu in 2022, resonating deeply with audiences through its intriguing exploration of faith, extremism, and the complexities of human relationships. Based on Jon Krakauer’s non-fiction book of the same name, the series intertwines a murder mystery with a profound examination of the intricacies within the Latter-day Saint community, compelling viewers to ponder the intersection of belief and morality.

Set against the backdrop of the picturesque yet stark landscapes of Utah, Under the Banner of Heaven expertly balances a simmering tension with thoughtful character development. At the heart of the story is Detective Jeb Pyre, played by Andrew Garfield, a devout member of the Mormon Church who finds his faith challenged as he investigates a horrific crime. When a young mother and her baby are brutally murdered, Pyre embarks on a quest for justice that unveils hidden sects, radical beliefs, and deep-rooted cultural norms within the community. Garfield's performance is both nuanced and captivating, showcasing the internal struggle of a man torn between his love for his faith and the realities of the horrific acts that have shattered his worldview.

Daisy Edgar-Jones stars as the ill-fated Brenda Wright Lafferty, who becomes pivotal to the storyline. Her character embodies the struggles faced by women within the community and the challenges of nonconformity in a rigid societal structure. Brenda's vibrant spirit is palpable, and her tragic fate acts as the catalyst for the unfolding drama. As Jeb Pyre delves deeper into the investigation, the narrative shifts to unravel Brenda’s life, revealing the tensions that exist within her marriage and her aspirations as a woman navigating a patriarchal society.

The series artfully handles the multigenerational influences of religion on family dynamics. Sam Worthington plays Alan Lafferty, Brenda’s husband, whose own connection to the Church and the radical beliefs surrounding it adds complexity to the unfolding case. Worthington delivers a layered performance that illustrates the friction between conformity and rebellion, showcasing the impact of faith on relationships.

Denise Gough and Wyatt Russell further enrich the narrative as they portray pivotal characters with deeply entrenched beliefs that are juxtaposed against Detective Pyre's growing skepticism. Their nuanced performances highlight the varying degrees of acceptance and extremism within the Faith, forcing viewers to confront their preconceptions about organized religion. This dynamic is further accentuated by the performances of Billy Howle and Gil Birmingham, who contribute to the storytelling by embodying contrasting viewpoints on faith and justice.

Under the Banner of Heaven expertly uses its cinematic language to enhance the storytelling, employing stark visuals and atmospheric sound design to create an unsettling mood. The series navigates through past and present timelines, with flashbacks that illuminate the characters' backgrounds and the historical complexities of the Church. This technique not only enriches the character arcs but also provides critical context about the events leading to the crime, creating a multifaceted narrative that explores the cutthroat nature of religious zeal and its impact on individual lives.

The themes of faith, loyalty, and morality serve as a constant backdrop throughout the series. As Detective Pyre grapples with the contradictions of his own beliefs versus the evidence he uncovers, the audience is invited to question the very nature of faith itself. The series does not shy away from uncomfortable truths and presents a raw, unfiltered look at how deeply held beliefs can lead to both community solidarity and destructive violence, prompting deep reflection on the nature of belief systems in general.

Additionally, the ensemble cast—featuring strong performances from Adelaide Clemens, Rory Culkin, Seth Numrich, Chloe Pirrie, Sandra Seacat, and Christopher Heyerdahl—brings a tangible realism to the story, enriching the narrative with diverse perspectives of belief and community. Through their portrayals, the show emphasizes varying interpretations of faith, making the series not just a crime thriller but also a poignant exploration of the human experience within the constraints of religion.

Under the Banner of Heaven is a powerful series that combines a murder mystery with an in-depth investigation of the human psyche and societal structures related to faith. Its intricate storytelling, masterful performances, and profound themes create a compelling viewing experience that stays with audiences long after the final credits roll. Through its exploration of belief, violence, and morality, the series invites viewers to reflect on the nature of faith in a modern context, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the complex interplay between religion and humanity.

Under the Banner of Heaven is a series that ran for 1 seasons (7 episodes) between April 28, 2022 and on Hulu