The Terminal List: Dark Wolf (2025) expands the world of the original series by turning the spotlight on Ben Edwards, played by Taylor Kitsch, in a gritty and emotionally charged prequel. Set years before the events of The Terminal List, the show traces Edwards’ journey from an idealistic Navy SEAL to a morally conflicted CIA operative. It explores the blurred lines between duty, loyalty and betrayal, offering a darker, more psychological look at the cost of war and espionage.
From the outset, the series immerses viewers in the visceral realities of covert operations. Its production values are impressive, with battle sequences that feel authentic and unflinching in their brutality. The cinematography captures the harsh beauty of its global settings, from dusty Middle Eastern landscapes to shadowy urban backdrops, while maintaining a grounded sense of realism. Each mission pulses with tension, aided by sharp sound design and tightly choreographed action.
Taylor Kitsch delivers a commanding performance as Edwards, portraying him as both capable and haunted. His internal conflict, torn between loyalty to his brothers-in-arms and the murky motives of intelligence agencies, gives the series its emotional backbone. Supporting performances from actors like Chris Pratt (in limited appearances) and Jared Shaw add depth and continuity, helping to bridge the new series with its predecessor.
While Dark Wolf succeeds in atmosphere and intensity, it occasionally falters in pacing and originality. Some episodes linger too long on exposition, and certain plotlines feel predictable, echoing familiar beats from other military thrillers. The writing, though serviceable, sometimes oversimplifies the moral complexity it aims to explore. Still, its focus on brotherhood, sacrifice, and the personal toll of violence keeps it emotionally engaging.
Ultimately, The Terminal List: Dark Wolf stands as a worthy, if imperfect, addition to the franchise. It deepens the mythology behind one of its most enigmatic characters while delivering the high-stakes action fans expect. Though it doesn’t reinvent the genre, its blend of realism, grit, and emotional weight ensures it hits its target, proving that the shadows cast by loyalty can be as dangerous as any enemy on the battlefield.
Here are some of the best lines / quotes from the TV series The Terminal List: Dark Wolf (2025).
“Even a pawn can take down a king.” — Ben Edwards
“No matter what the rules, you have to remember we’re not the players here. We’re just pieces on the board.” — Raife Hastings
“Men like us, protectors, defenders, sentinels. You’re either in the fight, or you’re thinking about it.” — Jed Haverford
“You had to shoot him to end the fight.” — James Reece
“What we’re doing here is going to echo through time.” — Jed Haverford
“My father used to tell me that some men will go to war to fight the enemy. But others will seek war to fight themselves.” — Raife Hastings
“Thank you for your service. I’m offering you a chance to finish what you started.” — Jed Haverford
“This one hits close to home. I’m trying to do what’s right.” — Ben Edwards
“You go tell my men what you just told me!” — Ben Edwards
These quotes capture the moral complexities, tension, and emotional stakes faced by the characters in the show and contribute to its intense and gripping narrative.
