"The Alienist" is a psychological thriller based on the eponymous novel by Caleb Carr. Set in New York in 1896, recently appointed Commissioner Roosevelt takes on the investigation of a series of murders of young boys, whose bodies have been not only mutilated but also dressed in women's clothing. When he realizes that someone higher up disapproves of his efforts to find the culprit, Roosevelt seeks the help of the alienist, Dr. Laszlo Kreizler, and his colleague, illustrator John Moore.