The Rig (TV Series 2023 - Present) is a British supernatural thriller series created by David Macpherson and directed by John Strickland. The show, which premiered on Amazon Prime Video, is set in the North Sea and follows a group of oil rig workers who find themselves trapped in an eerie and terrifying situation when a mysterious force takes over their platform.
Plot Summary:
The series is set on the Kinloch Bravo, an isolated oil rig stationed off the coast of Scotland. The crew, led by Offshore Installation Manager Magnus MacMillan (Iain Glen), is preparing to return to the mainland when a strange, supernatural fog envelops the rig, cutting off all communication with the outside world. At first, the crew believes it to be a natural phenomenon, but as they investigate further, they realize something far more sinister is at play.
As the thick fog settles in, the crew begins experiencing bizarre and unexplainable events. People start acting strangely, strange visions appear, and a series of accidents and deaths throw the rig into chaos. Among the crew are Rose Mason (Emily Hampshire), a scientist trying to make sense of the mysterious occurrences, and Fulmer Hamilton (Martin Compston), who tries to keep order amid the growing fear and paranoia.
The crew soon discovers that they may have disturbed something ancient and powerful beneath the ocean floorโsomething that has been lying dormant for centuries. The force appears to be sentient, possibly even extraterrestrial, and it starts to manipulate the minds of the crew members, turning them against each other. As tensions rise and the body count increases, the remaining survivors must find a way to escape before the rig becomes their tomb.
Themes & Reception:
The Rig blends elements of supernatural horror, psychological thriller, and environmental allegory. The show explores themes of humanityโs fragile relationship with nature, corporate greed, and the unknown horrors lurking beneath the depths of the ocean. The eerie atmosphere, combined with strong performances from the cast, particularly Iain Glen and Emily Hampshire, has drawn comparisons to films like The Thing and The Abyss.
The series received mixed-to-positive reviews upon release. Critics praised its gripping mystery, suspenseful storytelling, and strong performances but noted that some of the pacing and character development could have been stronger. Despite this, The Rig successfully delivers a chilling and atmospheric thriller that keeps audiences on edge.
With an open-ended finale, the show sets up the potential for future seasons, leaving viewers eager to uncover more secrets hidden in the deep sea.