Prime Video has launched a new supernatural series, “The Bondsman,” starring the ever-charismatic Kevin Bacon. All eight episodes of this intriguing show are now available for streaming, promising a wild ride that blends action, horror, and a touch of Southern charm.
The central premise is undeniably captivating: a murdered bounty hunter is resurrected by the devil himself, tasked with hunting down escaped demons.
The Plot
At the heart of “The Bondsman” is Hub Halloran, portrayed by Kevin Bacon as a seasoned, “hard as a rock” bounty hunter operating in the Georgia woods. With his Southern accent, Hub isn’t your typical hero; he’s a flawed individual with a past he’d rather keep buried, including an almost forgotten ambition to succeed as a country music singer. His life takes a dark turn when he’s violently murdered in a trap orchestrated by Lucky Callahan, the owner of a local country music club who is now romantically involved with Hub’s estranged ex-wife.
However, death isn’t the end for Hub. The devil unexpectedly resurrects him and offers a second chance at life with one condition: he must become a hunter of fugitive demons and bring them back to the fiery pits they escaped from. Hub’s new profane boss operates under the mundane guise of a company called “Pot O’ Gold,” with the seemingly modest Midge serving as the devil’s supervisor and emissary. The stakes are high; even the slightest failure in returning a demon will result in Hub’s permanent death.
Adding to the complexity of his situation is the involvement of his estranged family: his ex-wife Maryanne, a country music singer played by Jennifer Nettles, and his teenage son Cade, portrayed by Maxwell Jenkins. Their presence in his life, both helpful and harmful, forces Hub to confront not only supernatural threats but also his own personal demons.
As he embarks on his demonic missions, Hub begins to understand the reasons for his own damnation, propelling him on a journey toward genuine redemption in his second chance at life, love, and perhaps even a return to his forgotten musical dreams.
The Actors
The series’ cast is led by the versatile Kevin Bacon. With a career spanning numerous genres, including memorable roles in horror classics like Friday the 13th, Bacon brings both star power and genre credibility to the role of Hub Halloran.
Alongside him is Jennifer Nettles, celebrated for her vocal talent as part of the band Sugarland and for her performances in series like The Righteous Gemstones and The Exorcist: Believer. Nettles plays Maryanne Dice, Hub’s ex-wife and country singer whose life remains intertwined with his, even in the face of the supernatural.
The role of Hub’s tough and supportive mother, Kitty Halloran, is portrayed by the accomplished Beth Grant, known for her roles in No Country for Old Men and Donnie Darko. Damon Herriman, recognized for his work in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and Justified, plays antagonist Lucky Callahan. Maxwell Jenkins, known from Lost in Space, portrays his teenage son, Cade Halloran.
Completing the main cast is Jolene Purdy, known for her roles in “The White Lotus” and “Orange Is the New Black,” as Midge, Hub’s enigmatic intermediary to the underworld.
Between Horror, Action, and Comedy
“The Bondsman” is firmly situated in the action and horror genres, but skillfully interweaves elements of comedy and family drama, creating a unique and often surprising viewing experience.
The action and horror are visceral, with descriptions of “gore,” “bloody murders,” and Bacon wielding a chainsaw against demonic enemies in sequences often described as horrifying and entertaining.
Adding to the show’s peculiarity is a healthy dose of dark humor, arising from the absurd premise and the characters’ often deadpan reactions to supernatural chaos. The series also grounds its fantastical elements with a strong emphasis on family drama, exploring the complexities of Hub’s relationships with Maryanne, Cade, and his mother Kitty, providing emotional stakes that resonate beyond the monster-of-the-week scenarios.
The Production
The Bondsman is a creation of Grainger David, with Erik Oleson (Carnival Row, Daredevil) as showrunner and executive producer. The series is produced by Blumhouse Television, known for its successful horror productions, along with CrimeThink Production Company, Marker 96, and Amazon MGM Studios. Filming took place primarily in Georgia, using locations in Atlanta, Grantville, Senoia, and Sharpsburg between March and June 2024.
Our Opinion
Don’t take it seriously, but prepare to enjoy the absurd humor of a deeply flawed demon hunter who, accompanied by his mother, son, and ex-wife, tries to rid the world of diabolical presences. Absurd enough? The series is full of jokes, ironic characters, and has one great virtue: it knows not to take itself seriously at any moment.
If you like macabre humor, very macabre humor, it will at least make you laugh. Enjoy it!
Where to Watch “The Bondsman”
