Action fans searching for their next streaming obsession may have just found it with Netflix’s Man on Fire reboot. The action thriller, starring Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as John Creasy, is a fresh adaptation of A.J. Quinnell’s 1980 novel of the same name, which was famously adapted for the screen in 2004 with Denzel Washington in the lead role, and Tony Scott directing and producing. The new take has landed an early Rotten Tomatoes score, with critics hailing the seven-episode series a “must-watch” in reviews. Man on Fire has been positioned as a gritty, Jack Ryan-style thriller that has a darker edge than previous film adaptations, perhaps serving as Netflix’s answer to Prime Video’s Reacher. The series only debuted on streaming today (Apr. 30) but critics are already delivering their verdict on whether it’s a hit or a skip. At the time of writing, the small-screen actioner holds a 56% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on nine reviews – which is 17% higher than the 2004 film, which mustered a “Rotten” score of 39%.

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Abdul-Mateen has received widespread critical acclaim for his performance as Creasy, a Special Forces soldier looking for a fresh start, per the synopsis (below). The majority are in agreement that he is the anchor of the show, including Collider’s Carly Lane, who gave Man on Fire a glowing review and praised the actor for the “undeniable magnetism” he brought to the role “as both a leading man and an action star.” Digital Spy’s David Opie also asserted that, ultimately, his “charisma is the reason you’ll keep going when the middle stretch becomes a slog, and he’s the reason you’ll be happy that the season ends with potential for more.”
“Man on Fire follows John Creasy, who was once a high-functioning and skilled Special Forces Mercenary known for surviving even the most desolate situations. However, John is now battling extreme PTSD and personal demons. As he attempts a fresh start, he’ll find himself back in the (metaphorical) fire and fighting harder than ever.”
Unlike the 2004 movie set in Mexico City, the series relocates the action to the streets of Rio de Janeiro. It also switches up the relationship dynamics – with Creasy protecting a teenage girl instead of a young child. CBR’s Nicolas Brooks noted that the “shift from the book and the film offers a fresh perspective on the character, similar to how Jack Ryan evolved beyond the Tom Clancy novels.” Netflix’s Man on Fire is also described as being more “grounded” and “gripping” than the movie version. Screen Rant’s Dani Kessel Odom said its “deeper level” is what makes it a “must-watch” in the competitive streaming space:
“It’s rare for a story with such a brutal and violent edge to have such a heartfelt message at the core. The Netflix show is truly something special. Ultimately, this deeper level makes Netflix’s Man on Fire a must-watch.”

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as John Creasy in Netflix’s Man on Fire seriesNetflix

With such high praise, people may be wondering why Netflix’s Man on Fire hasn’t achieved a higher Rotten Tomatoes rating. However, there are a few negatives in the mix. Several reviewers have criticized the plot for being too formulaic and the visual style for lacking its “own identity” Others wondered whether it needed to exist at all, with some feeling that it fails to live up to the Denzel version, which has undergone a significant critical reappraisal in the years since its release. Kaiya Shunyata from RogerEbert.com summed it up as such:
“By the end, its characters never truly reach the heights these actors are so desperate to carve out of a dull script, and the action feels so lackluster that it may as well not exist at all.”
Man on Fire is currently available to stream on Netflix. Fear Street’s Kyle Killen is the writer, executive producer, and showrunner on the action saga. Creed II director Steven Caple Jr. helmed the first two episodes. He also has ideas about where it could go should it continue, though he told ComicBook.com its future “depends on everyone out there checking it out and watching it.” A potential second season renewal would likely only come once Netflix has evaluated the viewership data – so, watch this space.

Release Date

April 30, 2026

Network

Netflix

Showrunner

Kyle Killen