Shudder Original Series
Series Premiere Date: November 22, 2024

In “Jeremy,” The Creep Tapes continues its deep dive into unsettling territory with a narrative that centers on lust, shame, and deceit. The titular character Jeremy is a burgeoning YouTuber who hosts a show titled Gotcha!, dedicated to exposing controversial figures. His latest subject, a self-proclaimed priest, leads him directly into the orbit of Josef, the infamous serial killer from the series. What begins as a seemingly bold exposé unravels into a chilling game, with Jeremy’s curiosity and hubris placing him squarely in Josef’s sights.

Mark Duplass returns as Josef, delivering a character performance steeped in manipulative charm and sinister undertones. While it’s always intriguing to see Duplass breathe life into this calculating villain, the narrative risks becoming repetitive. Josef’s tactics, while terrifying, are increasingly predictable, stripping some of the tension that earlier episodes had so masterfully constructed. Jeremy’s arc, though compelling in concept, doesn’t quite break the mold, relying on familiar tropes of an unsuspecting victim lured by a dangerous predator.

Where the episode shines is in its exploration of themes. Lust and shame are woven into the fabric of Jeremy’s interactions with Josef, underscored by a theological backdrop that highlights the dangers of blind faith and deception. Unfortunately, these elements are undermined by uneven pacing and a lack of innovation in the series’ now-established formula.

At its halfway point, The Creep Tapes risks stagnation unless it takes bold narrative leaps to freshen Josef’s story. While “Jeremy” is a serviceable entry with moments of dread and intrigue, it doesn’t quite match the impact of earlier episodes. If the series can shift gears and surprise viewers, there’s hope it will regain its momentum.

• Saul Muerte

The Creep Tapes Series are currently streaming Exclusively on Shudder and AMC+