Cape Fear

Max Cady is out of prison, and married lawyers Anna and Tom Bowden have good reason to be uneasy. Their part in putting him behind bars has made their family the focus of his attention. Javier Bardem, Amy Adams and Patrick Wilson lead this 2026 psychological thriller, created by Nick Antosca, with Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg among its executive producers.

I really enjoyed Cape Fear. The writing kept me guessing, putting pieces together and trying to anticipate what would happen next. The cast supports it well, but the unfolding story and the tension are the reasons I kept wanting another episode. There is a satisfying amount to think through as the Bowdens face a threat their professional experience cannot keep at a comfortable distance.

I watched the 1991 film first and would recommend that order if you fancy both. It isn't essential, though. The series is a modern reworking with much more time to develop its situation, and knowing the film didn't spoil my enjoyment or leave me feeling I already knew how this version would play out.

The ten-episode limited series is on Apple TV in the UK, checked on 20 September 2026. Read my full Cape Fear review for more on why it worked for me. Your Honor is another option if family pressure and legal trouble are your sort of television.