What’s your first impression of Netflix’s new crime drama _The Waterfront_?
Netflix’s _The Waterfront_ Brings Southern Crime and Family Secrets to the Spotlight
_The Waterfront_, Netflix’s newest original drama, debuted June 19, 2025, and dives into the morally complex world of the Buckley family—a coastal North Carolina clan struggling to save their failing fishing empire by smuggling drugs. Created by Kevin Williamson (of _Dawson’s Creek_ fame) and inspired by his real-life family history, the series stars Holt McCallany, Maria Bello, Melissa Benoist, and Topher Grace. Early reactions draw comparisons to _Ozark_, _Yellowstone_, and _Bloodline_, praising its strong performances and emotionally layered story. While some critics noted tonal inconsistencies, many viewers appreciate its Southern Gothic vibe and gritty portrayal of family loyalty under fire. The eight-episode series is now streaming globally and generating plenty of buzz among drama fans.
Options
- Gritty and gripping
- Great cast, uneven writing
- Not my style
- Haven’t watched yet