Imagine Nancy Drew with a smartphone, a podcast, and an unwavering sense of justice. Now, sprinkle in a small-town mystery that’s darker than a black hole, and you’ve got “Home Before Dark,” a show that’s nothing short of a revelation.
Home Before Dark is an American mystery drama streaming on Apple TV+, and it’s based on the life of real-life young journalist Hilde Lysiak. Yes, you read that right—a journalist in her single digits. The series follows the precocious Hilde Lisko, played by the supremely talented Brooklynn Prince, as she moves from Brooklyn to the sleepy town of Erie Harbor, her father’s hometown. Spoiler alert: Erie Harbor is anything but sleepy.
The Plot Thickens:
Hilde stumbles upon a cold case that everyone else in town seems to have conveniently forgotten, including her father, Matt Lisko (Jim Sturgess). The plot weaves through decades-old secrets, probing questions, and a whole lot of reluctant adults who are way too comfortable with leaving stones unturned.
But the show’s real charm lies in how it portrays Hilde’s dogged determination. She’s a pint-sized powerhouse of tenacity, wielding her pen like a sword and her notepad as a shield. Hilde has a nose for news and a gut for justice, which makes her both endearing and formidable.
Young Age Feminism & Poise:
Why is Hilde such a compelling character? Because she’s a feminist icon in the making. In a world where young girls are often told to “stay in their lane,” Hilde swerves all over the road with the confidence of someone who knows she’s got GPS and a full tank of gas. Her pursuit of truth isn’t just a plot device; it’s a statement. It’s young-age feminism wrapped in a candy-colored Scooby-Doo mystery.
The show doesn’t just preach girl power; it lives it. Hilde is surrounded by a cast of strong, layered female characters, from her tech-savvy sister Izzy (Kylie Rogers) to her no-nonsense mom Bridget (Abby Miller). Together, they form a tapestry of modern femininity, where strength is multi-faceted and intelligence is celebrated.
Wit and Wisdom:
The show is peppered with witty dialogue and moments that make you chuckle, even as you’re biting your nails in suspense. Hilde’s interactions with the adults in her life are especially delightful. She has that rare gift for making grown-ups feel like they’re the ones who need to grow up.
Poise Under Pressure:
What’s truly inspiring about Hilde is her poise under pressure. She faces bullying, skepticism, and outright danger with a level of grace that would make even the Queen of England take notes. Hilde’s poise isn’t just about maintaining her cool; it’s about her steadfast belief in doing the right thing, even when it’s the hardest option.
Final Thoughts:
Home Before Dark isn’t just a show; it’s a rallying cry for young girls everywhere to embrace their inner detectives, journalists, and truth-seekers. It’s a testament to the power of youth, curiosity, and unshakeable determination. So, whether you’re a fan of mysteries, a supporter of young feminism, or just in need of a show that will keep you on the edge of your seat, Home Before Dark is your go-to.
Grab your magnifying glass, your notepad, and your sense of adventure. Just remember to be home before dark. Or not; Hilde wouldn’t follow that rule, and neither should you.