“Eric” powerfully dramatizes weighty social issues in 1985 New York

Through a title character defined by his demons, the miniseries “Eric” tackles weighty issues. They include: racism, anger management, alcoholism, adultery, and the disappearance of children. Propelled by the no-holds-barred, dynamic performance of Benedict Cumberbatch as puppeteer Vincent Anderson, events unfold in 1985 New York where Vincent is the creative force behind “Good Day, Sunshine!”, a show reminiscent of “Sesame Street."

With enough issues for seve More than a difficult co-worker, Vincent unleashes insults on his colleagues whom he treats with contempt amidst volatile outbursts. Often in an alcoholic stupor, Vincent imagines and is unnerved by the shaggy, blue, seven-foot puppet Eric, a new character for the show suggested by Vincent’s nine-year-old son Edgar. Only Vincent and we can see and hear Eric, a catalyst to Vincent’s nightmarish free fall when Edgar disappears. His wife Cassie, with whom Vincent fights loudly and contemptuously, becomes increasingly frantic.

In a tense, heartbreaking subplot, NYPD detective Michael Ledroit pursues the case which intersects with another child’s disappearance, Marlon Rochelle, a black boy. His mother Cecile refuses to accept the police dismissal of that tragedy. Police misconduct and racist treatment of Ledroit intrude, further complicated by Ledroit’s partner’s HIV positive status and Ledroit’s own closeted identity. Adding to all this are trips to subterranean subway encampments.

With enough issues for several series, “Eric” masterfully interweaves personal and professional crises with incisive, sobering social critiques devoid of melodramatic exploitation. In other words, it dramatizes real, disconcerting issues. Solid performances keep violent confrontations truthful and, therefore, unnerving. Vincent’s vulgar insults and hateful attacks on his hard-working colleagues at the network will resonate with employees disrespected in their workplaces, but Vincent’s behavior goes far beyond anything considered civil.

As Cassie, Vincent’s wife, Gaby Hoffmann embodies the distraught mother of a missing child. As Detective Ledroit, McKinley Belcher III offers a sensitive response to his environment. Equally solid are Dan Fogler as Vincent’s boss Lennie and Clarke Peters as building superintendent George Lovett. Showrunner/creator Abi Morgan and director Lucy Forbes deliver a hard-hitting, memorable series. The six episodes of “Eric” are streaming now on Netflix.