Absentia, a thriller series that initially premiered internationally in 2017 before arriving on Amazon Prime Video the following year, has made its way to Netflix in 2025 and has quickly risen to the platform’s Top 10. The show poses a thought-provoking question: What happens when someone returns to a world that has presumed them dead for years? If you’re contemplating whether to watch the series, here’s an overview of its premise and appeal.
The story begins with a cheerful home video featuring a young couple playing with their young son and puppy, set to a foreboding orchestral score that sets a tense tone. The narrative quickly shifts to a stark contrast as we witness Emily Byrne, portrayed by Stana Katic, an FBI agent who has been kidnapped and tortured. After being declared dead in absentia following a serial killer’s conviction, Emily’s husband, fellow agent Nick Durand (Patrick Heusinger), has moved on, remarrying and blending a family with his new wife Alice (Cara Theobold) and their son Flynn (Patrick McAuley), who has emotionally distanced himself from his biological mother.
After six long years, a chilling call indicating that Emily is alive leads the FBI to her horrific captivity. Despite being rescued from the tank where she was imprisoned, Emily’s return is fraught with trauma; she struggles with PTSD and faces a son who feels replaced. As she grapples with the reality of her situation and the changes in her family dynamic, the search for who abducted her intensifies, raising questions about whether it was truly the man who was sentenced for her kidnapping.
Absentia has garnered attention for its unique blend of a serious cable drama vibe mixed with elements of a procedural crime series. While Katic’s portrayal of Emily showcases her impressive range as she conveys deep emotional scars from her harrowing experience, some plot elements feel underwhelming. The investigation into her abduction risks becoming formulaic, with certain character reactions echoing typical network procedural clichés.
The show does include some moments of tension, such as Emily’s insistence on joining the investigation despite her fragile condition, allowing for compelling character interactions and growth. However, the storyline can sometimes appear predictable, undermining the complexity of Emily’s return to a changed world.
Despite some shortcomings, the series possesses a distinctive atmosphere, primarily due to its unique filming location in Bulgaria, which adds an eerie quality to the setting. Katic’s compelling performance shines in moments of vulnerability and determination, making her character an engaging focal point of the story.
Ultimately, while Absentia presents an intriguing premise and moments of strong character development, the overall execution may leave some viewers wanting more originality and depth. Despite its Netflix success, the recommendation leans towards skipping it unless you’re particularly drawn to Katic’s performance or the show’s premise. Those looking for a more captivating and unique viewing experience might consider exploring other options. Absentia is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime.