While Jason Momoa is globally recognised for his roles as Aquaman and Khal Drogo, a critically acclaimed police thriller from his back catalogue has resurfaced for UK audiences. The Red Road, a tense drama that originally aired from 2014 to 2015, has now landed on the ITVX streaming platform, allowing viewers to binge all episodes for free.
A Gripping Small-Town Thriller
The series shifts the spotlight from Momoa's typical action-hero persona to a more complex and vulnerable character. The story centres on Harold Jensen (Martin Henderson), a local police officer in the fictional New Jersey town of Walpole. His investigation into a student's disappearance leads him to the nearby Ramapo Mountains, home to a federally unrecognised Native American tribe.
It is here he crosses paths with Phillip Kopus (Jason Momoa), a dangerous and charismatic ex-convict. When Kopus descends from the mountains into Jensen's town, a fragile alliance forms, forcing the sheriff to compromise his moral code. This partnership threatens to unravel Jensen's already fragile family life, creating a powder keg of tension that forever alters the community.
Critical Acclaim and Fan Devotion
The Red Road ran for two seasons, totalling 12 episodes, on SundanceTV. Despite its relatively short run, the show garnered a dedicated following and impressive scores on Rotten Tomatoes. The first season holds a solid 80% audience score, while the second season soars to an exceptional 92%, indicating the narrative only grew stronger.
Fans have long praised the series for its intricate plotting and powerful performances. Online reviews describe it as 'beyond excellent' and 'one of the best series', with many highlighting Momoa's performance as one of his finest. One ardent viewer wrote, 'This is the most well-written, well thought-out, well produced... show. Entertaining every minute keeping you on the edge of your seat.'
The Lingering Demand for Revival
The show's cancellation after its second season remains a sore point for its fanbase. Many continue to express their frustration online, labelling the decision a 'biggest mistake' by Sundance and calling for its revival. The 12-episode run left viewers craving more, with some feeling the story concluded without full closure.
For Momoa, the role was a conscious departure. In an interview with Daily Actor, he explained he took the part to challenge perceptions, stating he had to convince producers he could handle such a vulnerable and complex character. 'Normally, I'm like, gutting something, killing something with my shirt off, and grunting,' he joked, highlighting his desire to showcase his dramatic range.
His commitment was absolute; to prepare, Momoa spent time with the Ramapough Lenape Nation in New York to understand his character's connection to his homeland and his mindset after six years in prison.
The series also boasts a strong supporting cast, including Julianne Nicholson, Tamara Tunie, Annalise Basso, and Allie Gonino. For those who missed it the first time or wish to revisit this hidden gem, all episodes of The Red Road are available to stream now on ITVX.
