The man is just a joy to watch and makes an improbable character-govt spy turned international criminal mastermind- delightful and believable. In short, his performance is everything that makes this show great and I suspect he's somehow improved the template like performances of his supporting actors over time. He's not only the captain of the ship, he's the crew and the ship as well. How is this possible? Just what is its appeal? James Spader as Red Reddington is the answer and the sole reason this show is so watchable. Into its 3rd season, The Blacklist survives, it thrives despite its being no Breaking Bad, or Mr. It doesn't have distinctive, stylish features. The Blacklist isn't the best TV show you've ever seen-it's not edgy or innovative with an original storyline or remarkable cinematography.
