HBO’s “Task” Premieres with Ruffalo Leading Philadelphia Crime Drama

HBO’s highly anticipated crime drama “Task” made its debut tonight, marking the return of “Mare of Easttown” creator Brad Ingelsby to Sunday night television.

The seven-episode limited series launched September 7 at 9 PM ET on HBO and HBO Max, bringing viewers back to the working-class suburbs of Philadelphia. Created by Ingelsby, who previously captivated audiences with Kate Winslet’s acclaimed detective drama, “Task” represents HBO’s latest investment in character-driven crime storytelling set in Delaware County, Pennsylvania.

Star-Powered Cast Tackles New Crime Saga

Mark Ruffalo leads the ensemble as Tom Brandis, a troubled FBI agent and former Catholic priest who heads a specialized task force. The series pairs him against Tom Pelphrey’s Robbie Prendergrast, a seemingly ordinary garbage collector orchestrating violent heists targeting local drug operations.

The supporting cast includes Emilia Jones from “CODA,” Martha Plimpton, and Jamie McShane. Ruffalo’s character grapples with personal tragedy following his wife’s death, while Pelphrey’s family man leads dangerous raids against the notorious Dark Hearts motorcycle gang.

Philadelphia Setting Returns to HBO Spotlight

Following the success of “Mare of Easttown,” HBO continues mining Philadelphia’s collar counties for compelling crime narratives. The series unfolds across the industrial outskirts of Philadelphia, where federal investigators pursue increasingly violent robbery crews.

“I believe there are still untold stories about the people in Delaware County,” Ingelsby told The Hollywood Reporter, noting both series “inhabit the same universe”. The creator even entertained potential crossover possibilities between the two Delaware County-set dramas.

Critical Reception and Viewing Schedule

Early reviews have praised the series’ performances and atmosphere. Rotten Tomatoes reports an 85% approval rating based on 27 critic reviews, with Metacritic scoring it 78 out of 100. Critics highlighted the series’ exploration of fatherhood, broken dreams, and moral ambiguity.

“Task” will air weekly on Sunday nights at 9 PM ET through October 19. The complete seven-episode schedule includes titles like “Family Statements” (September 14) and “Nobody’s Stronger Than Forgiveness” (September 21).

Streaming and International Availability

HBO Max subscribers can access episodes immediately following their HBO broadcast. UK viewers can watch on Sky and NOW starting September 8. New HBO Max subscribers can utilize seven-day free trials, with monthly plans starting at $9.99 with advertisements.

The series promises to explore themes of generational trauma and law enforcement challenges through Ingelsby’s signature lens of working-class Pennsylvania communities.