The Old Man

Jeff Bridges plays Dan Chase, a former CIA assassin living covertly in upstate New York. When a hit is launched on him, he’s forced to confront his past and go on the run. Pursuing him is FBI veteran Harold Harper (John Lithgow), a longtime colleague-turned-adversary tangled in old regrets 

What sets this apart is the concept of a “geriaction” hero—an aging man with creaky joints who still fights with lethal precision. Bridges imbues Dan with depth: struggling to button socks one moment, then expertly neutralizing threats the next His relationship with his dogs, gadgets, and quiet routines humanize him even amid the chaos .

• Jeff Bridges at his best: Magnetically acts both weary and threatening—bringing emotional and physical realism to the role 

• Strong supporting cast: John Lithgow counters Bridges with gravitas, and Alia Shawkat as Angela adds sharp wit and intrigue Balanced tone: The writing blends slow-burning introspection with gritty action. Flashbacks to Chase’s Afghan mission enrich his backstory t

• Emotional stakes: Moments like his conversations with daughter Emily and love interest Zoe (Amy Brenneman) add profound emotional resonance 

• Sluggish pacing at times: Some episodes take a slow burn before ramping up action Flashback dips: Backstory scenes can feel overlong or melodramatic compared to present-day thrills .

• Season 2 reception uneven: While the first season earned rave reviews (~97% on Rotten Tomatoes), the second dropped to ~64%, with critics citing a staler vibe and convoluted plot

• Critical acclaim: Season 1 was praised for its fresh take on the genre and Bridges’s standout performance 

• Fan reactions: Viewers lauded its emotional depth, visceral fight scenes, and compelling characters—as one Reddit user put it, “slick, emotionally complex, exciting” 

• Awards: Garnered Golden Globe and SAG nominations for Bridges and Lithgow, earning critical acclaim and industry recognition .Cancellation: Despite success, production delays (COVID, strikes, Bridges’s health) slowed output; the show concluded after Season 2 in late 2024 .

The Old Man is a thoughtful twist on the spy-thriller, mixing vulnerability, legacy, and action through a uniquely aged lens. Jeff Bridges anchors the series with nuanced strength, supported by an excellent ensemble. While Season 2 faltered a bit, the first season remains a standout—at once a slow-burning character study and a well‑crafted suspense drama.

Overall Rating: 8 / 10

• ✅ For: Fans of spy thrillers with emotional depth, solid acting, and unconventional heroes.

• 🚫 Skip if: You prefer fast-paced or superhero-style action without introspection or slower momentum.