'Thrilling' prequel to controversial Prime Video drama has 'better action than most action movies'

Prime Video’s riveting new thriller series is said to be even more impressive than most action movies hitting the big screen.

If you’ve been let down by the latest blockbuster fare at the cinema, look no further than the streamer’s latest offering, which also cements an underrated star as a bona fide action lead.

Although the first season of The Terminal List, released in 2022, proved controversial amongst critics, it was well-loved by fans, scoring an incredible 94 percent audience rating.

Now, the franchise continues by taking a surprising new direction, following Chief Special Warfare Operator Ben Edwards (played by Taylor Kitsch) in the events leading up to the chilling conspiracy which unravelled in season one.

Also featuring Hollywood star Chris Pratt and The Umbrella Academy’s Tom Hopper, the seven-part prequel The Terminal List: Dark Wolf premiered this week and is essential viewing for thriller fans.

READ MORE: Netflix drops release date for grisly true crime series as fans say it's 'top of the list'

READ MORE: ‘Dizzying’ new thriller starting today is an ‘explosive’ must-watch for action fans

The series tracks Edwards’ journey from the Navy SEALs to the CIA, exploring the dark underbelly and harsh realities of warfare.

Collider has raved about the new series, which they say “finally gives Taylor Kitsch his spotlight as an action star”.

They went on to claim that Dark Wolf has “better action than most action movies”, calling Kitsch “terrific” and an “uncommonly interesting action presence with many contrasting qualities”.

Their review has also teased that the series establishes even more franchise potential than the original first season, so fans could expect plenty more follow-ups and spin-offs coming down the line.

Meanwhile, Decider urged fans to “stream it” and likened the series to other military dramas such as SEAL Team and Jack Ryan.

They said: “The Terminal List: Dark Wolf picks up the thread of action-oriented shows exploring the depths of covert ops and the toll that stuff takes on the people doing the work.

“But as a prequel to Terminal List, we’re most interested in how Taylor Kitsch builds out his intriguing character from that show.”

Fans who have already gotten started on the first three episodes have also been raving, with one five-star Google review declaring: “The first three episodes are absolutely phenomenal — pure intensity, sharp pacing, and gritty realism that Navy SEAL fans will love.

“[Kitsch] completely owns the screen, delivering a powerful performance that feels both tactical and human.

“Every scene is peak action, and the authenticity makes it unforgettable. If you’re into military thrillers, this is as good as it gets.”

Will you be tuning into new episodes of the gripping prequel each week?

The Terminal List: Dark Wolf continues Wednesdays on Prime Video.