On 11/20, I had the privilege of attending an exclusive screening of Prime Video’s highly anticipated series Cross, followed by an illuminating Q&A session with its charismatic star, Aldis Hodge. The new Cross TV series, which reimagines James Patterson’s beloved psychological detective Alex Cross for a modern audience, proves that some characters are timeless – they just need the right actor to breathe new life into them. (Cover Photo Credit: Le Studio Photography)
Who is Alex Cross?
Alex Cross, for those unfamiliar with Patterson’s bestselling book series, is a brilliant forensic psychologist and detective with a gift for getting inside the minds of the most dangerous criminals. The character has captivated readers through dozens of novels, becoming one of crime fiction’s most enduring heroes. Previously brought to life by Morgan Freeman in the films Kiss the Girls (1997) and Along Came a Spider (2001), and later by Tyler Perry in Alex Cross (2012), the character now finds a perfect new incarnation in Hodge.
On His Preparation For the Role
During the Q&A, Hodge revealed the fascinating process of becoming Alex Cross. Handpicked for the role, he chose not to taint his preparation by studying the previous films or books. Hodge states, “I needed to maintain a clear palette so that my relationship with the character was honest. I never let anything interrupt or interject when it comes to my relationship with my character because I need it to be built honestly off of what I’m doing and not what other impressions are.” In order to maintain his integrity, he worked closely with series creator Ben Watkins and James Patterson himself to craft his interpretation of Alex Cross. This collaboration shows in every scene – Hodge’s Cross is younger, grittier, and brings a fresh energy to the role while maintaining the sharp intelligence and psychological insight that fans have come to expect from the character.
Contemporary Edge and Sophisticated Storytelling
Prime Video’s Cross TV series distinguishes itself with its contemporary edge and sophisticated storytelling. Hodge’s portrayal balances Cross’s brilliant analytical mind with raw emotional depth, creating a complex hero for today’s audiences. The show masterfully weaves together intense psychological thrills with personal drama, as Cross navigates both dangerous investigations and family relationships.
What sets this adaptation apart is its ability to honor Patterson’s source material while carving out its own unique identity. The series maintains the intricate plot twists that Patterson fans love while adding layers of contemporary relevance and emotional complexity. The production values are cinematic, with Washington D.C. serving as an atmospheric backdrop to the unfolding mysteries.
In true James Patterson style, viewers can expect countless twists and turns that will keep them guessing until the very end. The writing is sharp, the pacing is relentless, and each episode builds upon the last to create an addictive viewing experience. It’s no surprise that Prime Video has already greenlit a second season – a testament to their confidence in the show’s quality and appeal.
The supporting cast deserves special mention, creating a rich ensemble that complements Hodge’s stellar performance. Each character feels fully realized, contributing to a world that feels authentic and lived-in. The chemistry between cast members, in particular Isaiah Mustafa, adds depth to both the professional and personal aspects of Cross’s life. “Not all the time do you get lucky to have a scene partner that actually respects you, that actually wants to work with you, that actually wants to help you do better and bring out your greatest potential. So I’m terribly grateful to Isaiah for being who he is,” says Hodge.
Must-Watch TV
As someone who’s watched numerous book-to-screen adaptations, I can confidently say that Cross sets a new standard for how to reimagine beloved literary characters for television. Hodge’s performance is nothing short of revolutionary – he captures the essence of Alex Cross while making the character entirely his own. His interpretation feels both fresh and faithful, appealing to longtime fans while welcoming newcomers to the franchise.
With its perfect blend of psychological tension, action, and character development, Cross is must-watch television. As we await Season 2, one thing is certain: Aldis Hodge’s portrayal of Alex Cross will be remembered as definitive for a new generation of viewers. The series is available now on Prime Video, and trust me – this is one psychological thriller you won’t want to miss.
