Apple TV+’s untitled adaptation of Lars Kepler’sJoona Linnanovels continues to expand its cast, as horror star Rory Culkin joins Liev Schrieber in the streamer’s upcoming answer to theReacherseries. Younger sibling to Macaulay Culkin and Kieran Culkin, the actor received widespread attention in 2011 for his portrayal of Charlie Walker, a Woodsboro teen who would become one of the few to don the mask ofthe Ghostface Killer inScream 4. Culkin also starred inBlack Mirror, The Twilight Zone, Castle Rock,andSigns.
As reported byDeadline, Culkin has joined the cast of Apple TV+’s upcoming, untitled adaptation of theJoona Linnanovel series. The report states thatthe actor is set to portray Karl, an idealistic but nervous employee at a high-security psychiatric institutewho has good intentions, despite finding himself caring for some of the most dangerous inmates. Culkin will join series regular Schreiber, who will portray Jonah Lynn, the series' adaptation of the Linna character.
What This Means For Apple TV+’s Joona Linna Adaptation
The Series Is An American Reimagining Of The Tale
First published in 2009 withThe Hypnotist, Kepler’s series of nine novels centers on the exploits of detectiveJoona Linna, a homicide detective and chief inspector for the Swedish Police Force in Scandinavia,who is acclaimed for being able to spot details that may pass other investigators by and willingness to do anything to bring a case to a close.
The Hypnotistwas previously adapted to film in 2012 with a movie directed by Lasse Hallström, which was submitted as Sweden’s Best Foreign Language Movie entry at the 85th Academy Awards. However, while details on the upcoming adaptation are few, it is becoming clearer that the series will make alterations.
Rather than the series being set in Scandinavia,Apple TV+’s retelling of Kepler’s novels will bring the story over to an American setting. It has previouslybeen revealed that Schreiber’s Lynnchose to move from his post in Philadelphia in order to enjoy a quieter life in a western Pennsylvania town, though a serial killer’s arrival upends these plans. Alongside Culkin and Schreiber, the series will also star Stephen Graham as the bloodthirsty killer Jurek Walker, Zazie Beatz as FBI Agent Saga Bauer, and Bill Camp as Police Chief Ellison.
Our Thoughts On Culkin’s Joona Linna Casting
The Actor’s Range Shows He Can Be More Than A Villain
While Apple TV+‘sJoona Linnaseries already had a pretty impressive cast, the series’ addition of Culkin to its roster is sure to intrigue many. For those more familiar with his role inScream 4, they may beeager to see him play what seems on the surface to be a more affable, approachable, and morally correct character. However, as proven by his roles in many varied horror productions and dramas such asUnder The Banner of Heaven,Culkin is a varied performer.
Furthermore, the description of Culkin’s role does emphasize elements that will help it stand out fromReacherand other crime dramas.WhileReacherhas seen Alan Ritchson’stitular roaming crime fighter prove himself to be a formidable force against wrongdoers,Kepler’s series is slower and more cerebral, as seen through Karl being an optimist within an environment where he is exposed to terrifying individuals. As such,Apple TV+‘sJoona Linnaadaptation may draw those looking for a more complex drama.
