Apple TV+'s #1 Arsonist Drama Based on Real Events Is a Perfect Pick for 'Chicago Fire' Fans

Season 13 of Chicago Fire has already ended, and we won't see Season 14 until fall. However, we already have a new project for you about arsonists and the people who fight them.

Smoke, a new Apple TV+ series, was released on June 27 and has already become one of the platform's most popular shows.

What Is 'Smoke' About?

The story centers on Detective Michelle and arson investigator Dave. They team up to catch an arsonist.

Most of the arson attacks are carried out in public places, such as shopping centers, when there are many people around. The situation becomes more complicated when suspicion arises that the arsonist is not acting alone.

Either there are two of them working together, or they are dangerous loners who have nothing in common except an obsession with fire.

'Smoke' Is Based on the Story of a Real Arsonist

Smoke is based on the true crime podcast Firebug, which is dedicated to the case of the most prolific serial arsonist in US history. For ten years, former firefighter John Leonard Orr terrorized Southern Californians, filling them with dread every time they walked into a supermarket.

Orr most often set fires in stores during their busiest hours. In total, Orr set more than 2,000 fires.

He got away with it all because he worked as an arson investigator, participated in the hunt for himself, and even wrote a book about it: Points of Origin: Playing with Fire.

'Smoke' Loses to 'Black Bird', but Remains a Worthy Crime Project

Three years ago, writer and screenwriter Dennis Lehane created the successful Apple TV+ miniseries Black Bird. In both Black Bird and Lehane's new project, Smoke, the lead role was played by Taron Egerton.

While Black Bird received unanimous praise from critics, Smoke, although lacking in rhythm, remains a worth-watching crime series – especially since there are very few projects about arsonists and the investigation of their crimes.

'Smoke' Starts Slowly but Rewards Viewers With a Gripping Finale

The first part of Smoke is a slow burner. The first episodes have their exciting moments and plot twists, but it is mostly a leisurely story, in which the characters slowly approach one of the arsonists.

This may turn off some viewers, but if you have some patience and reach the second half of the season you will be pleasantly surprised – it is the complete opposite of the first, dynamic and exciting.

Lehane saved all the suspense, tension, and drive for the finale. The last three of the nine episodes are a real treat. Even knowing the arsonists' identities, it will be hard to tear yourself away from the screen.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Smoke'?

• Smoke has 69% from critics and 74% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the series has a score of 6.4/10.