When Netflix drops a new limited series starring Jude Law and Jason Bateman, expectations run high. Black Rabbit, released worldwide on September 18, 2025, is already sparking debate among critics and audiences alike. With its mix of family drama, psychological tension, and the glamorous yet menacing backdrop of New York nightlife, this 8-episode miniseries is positioning itself as one of the must-watch shows of the fall season.
What is Black Rabbit about?
At the heart of Black Rabbit lies the complicated bond between two brothers:
Jake Friedken (Jude Law), a successful restaurateur and owner of a trendy lounge in New York, and
Vince Friedken (Jason Bateman), the troubled brother who suddenly re-enters Jake’s life after years of absence.
Jake has built his empire on discipline and ambition, but when Vince returns, old wounds reopen. With Vince come debts, shady connections, and a criminal underworld that threatens not only Jake’s business but also his carefully constructed life. The restaurant “Black Rabbit” becomes more than a setting—it’s the stage where loyalty, betrayal, and survival collide.
A powerhouse cast and creative team
The casting alone makes Black Rabbit worth watching:
Jude Law delivers a layered performance as the polished yet vulnerable Jake.
Jason Bateman, also an executive producer, directs the first two episodes while portraying the chaotic Vince with his signature intensity.
Supporting performances include Cleopatra Coleman (Estelle), Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù (Wes), and Oscar-winner Troy Kotsur (Joe Mancuso).
The directing lineup is equally impressive, featuring Laura Linney, Ben Semanoff, and Justin Kurzel, each bringing a unique vision to the narrative.
Why critics are divided
Early reviews have been mixed. On Rotten Tomatoes, the show holds around a 65% approval rating, and Metacritic describes it as “generally favorable.”
Praised for: the performances of Law and Bateman, atmospheric cinematography, and the exploration of themes like guilt, family ties, and the price of ambition.
Criticized for: a relentlessly heavy tone, occasionally predictable writing, and characters that some viewers find difficult to empathize with.
The Guardian described it as “almost impossible to care” about the brothers, while other outlets highlight its raw emotional depth and stylish execution.
Themes and style
Black Rabbit is not just another crime drama. It dives into:
Family loyalty vs. personal ambition
Addiction, debt, and redemption
The double life of New York nightlife—glamour on the surface, danger underneath
Visually, the series captures neon-lit clubs, high-end dining, and the gritty underbelly of the city, echoing tones familiar to fans of Ozark or The Bear but with its own dark twist.
Should you watch Black Rabbit?
If you’re drawn to character-driven thrillers where personal demons clash with external threats, Black Rabbit deserves a spot on your Netflix queue. Its compact 8-episode structure means you can binge it in a weekend, but its emotional weight might linger much longer.
Watch if you loved: Ozark, The Night Of, The Bear.
Skip if you prefer: lighthearted dramas or fast-paced action thrillers.
Final thoughts
Black Rabbit might not be perfect, but it is ambitious television. With two A-list leads, a rich atmosphere, and themes that cut deep into family and survival, it’s the kind of series Netflix hopes will dominate conversations this season. Whether you side with the critics or get hooked instantly, one thing’s clear: Black Rabbit will not leave you indifferent.
