Ranking Every HBO Miniseries From Worst To Best

A series adapted from a Pulitzer Prize winning novel - by the novelist himself, no less - and starring a host of acclaimed actors, this is prestige telly of the highest order. Empire Falls is one of HBO’s most successful book-to-screen translations, a patient piece of storytelling with a focus on character.

Though the main draw is the ensemble at large, its star is Ed Harris as Miles Roby. It’s a departure for the actor, who often plays villainous or brutal characters; here he’s the gentle and good hearted proprietor of a diner. He has lived in the titular town his whole life and seems content, but as the series unfolds, we delve into his childhood and the mysteries therein.

The flashbacks allow for more A-grade performers to strut their stuff, including Robin Wright as Roby’s mother, and the much missed Philip Seymour Hoffman as a mysterious suitor. Best of all, there’s a rare TV performance from Paul Newman as Roby’s father, in an Emmy winning turn.

The series burns through eight episodes in a little over three hours, a refreshing approach to a story that could have taken a lot more squeezing. It’s about as good as screen acting gets, and the narrative’s superb too.