**Escape at Dannemora: Ben Stiller Takes the Helm on This Gripping Crime Series**
The anticipation for *Severance* season 2 on Apple TV+ has been excruciating for viewers, but if you’re searching for something to engage with in the meantime, Netflix has added a hidden treasure to its offerings. *Escape at Dannemora*, a 2018 limited series from Showtime directed by the talented Ben Stiller, is now accessible for streaming. This riveting crime narrative draws upon a real-life prison break that fascinated the public.
### The Real Account Behind *Escape at Dannemora*
*Escape at Dannemora* recounts the astonishing true tale of a 2015 escape from Clinton Correctional Facility, a maximum-security institution in upstate New York. The breakout was masterminded by two convicted murderers, Richard Matt and David Sweat, aided by a prison employee, Joyce “Tilly” Mitchell, who became romantically involved with both inmates. The series explores the intricate dynamics among the trio and the extensive manhunt that followed their bold escape.
### A Talented Ensemble Cast
The limited series features an outstanding cast, with Benicio del Toro and Paul Dano portraying the convicted murderers, Richard Matt and David Sweat, respectively. Patricia Arquette shines in her role as Tilly Mitchell, the prison staff member who gets drawn into the escape scheme. Arquette’s interpretation of Tilly is both chilling and intriguing, earning her widespread acclaim and numerous award nominations. The supporting cast includes Bonnie Hunt as New York State Inspector General Catherine Leahy Scott and Michael Imperioli as then-Governor Andrew Cuomo.
### Ben Stiller’s Entrance into TV Direction
While Ben Stiller is predominantly recognized for his comedic performances in films like *Zoolander* and *Meet the Parents*, *Escape at Dannemora* represents his initial foray into directing a television drama. Stiller’s direction in this series is meticulous, emphasizing the gradually building tension throughout the seven episodes. His work on *Escape at Dannemora* received widespread acclaim, laying the groundwork for his subsequent success with *Severance*, another critically lauded series.
### A Gradual Crime Drama
*Escape at Dannemora* isn’t a typical high-octane crime thriller. Rather, it embraces a methodical approach to explore the psychological depths of its characters and the complexities of the escape plan. The series unfolds slowly, with each episode intentionally crafting tension as the characters’ motives and relationships are examined thoroughly. Critics have remarked that while the pacing is leisurely, the performances—especially Arquette’s—are captivating and deserving of the wait.
As Troy Patterson from *The New Yorker* highlighted in his critique, “Patricia Arquette’s brilliance as Tilly is the most compelling aspect of a show where the elements of a predictable plot are secondary to a memorable intensity of performances.”
### Reception and Impact
After its debut, *Escape at Dannemora* garnered mostly favorable reviews, with numerous critics commending the performances and Stiller’s direction. Nevertheless, some pointed out the series’ slow tempo as a potential downside for viewers seeking more action. Despite this, the show accumulated several award nominations, including nods for the Golden Globes and Primetime Emmys, cementing its status as a remarkable entry in the crime drama realm.
For those who value character-centric stories and meticulous storytelling, *Escape at Dannemora* is a must-see. The series provides a captivating perspective on a real-life escape that gripped the nation, brought to life by an exceptional cast and a director who showcases his talent beyond comedy.
### Where to View
*Escape at Dannemora* is currently available on Netflix, making it easily accessible for anyone who missed its initial Showtime airing. With its compelling narrative, top-notch performances, and Ben Stiller’s skillful direction, the series is an excellent selection for fans of true crime dramas seeking fresh content to binge.
### Final Thoughts
If you’re in the mood for a taut, slowly unfolding crime series featuring an excellent cast and a fascinating true story at its heart, *Escape at Dannemora* should not be overlooked. Furthermore, for admirers of Ben Stiller’s directing, this series acts as a precursor to his critically acclaimed *Severance*, which is set to return for its eagerly awaited second season in January 2025 on Apple TV+.
So, grab your snacks, get comfy, and get ready to be enthralled by this underrated masterpiece now streaming on Netflix.
