Before

Apple TV+'s supernatural psychological thriller Before received largely negative to mixed reviews from critics. While Billy Crystal's dramatic turn in a horror role generated initial intrigue, the majority of reviewers found the series struggled significantly in its execution, labeling the narrative stagnant, repetitive, and monotonously somber.

Several major outlets heavily criticized the writing and pacing, with reviews pointing out that the show loses its way trying to emulate established horror tropes. Critics noted that despite an atmospheric tone and a strong supporting cast, the series failed to muster enough narrative depth to support its ten-episode run, with some describing the final product as bizarrely flawed and flimsy.

However, reception was not entirely uniform. A minority of critics praised Crystal's performance as a grieving child psychiatrist, commending his ability to step outside his comedic roots to deliver a grounded and compelling lead portrayal in a spine-tingling story.