Premiered July 15 at 10pm
Consider this the surprise of the year. I expected nothing from this show, with a lead star I hate and a seemingly trite premise. My expectations were far beyond exceeded. This show is well put-together, and despite a few quirky elements, works incredibly well. The story is nothing too new, but the tone of the show seems appropriate and makes it feel fresh. Benjamin Bratt talking to God every few minutes is something I can do without out, and the team’s interactions need a little fine-tuning. Otherwise, this show reminds me quite a bit of “Breaking Bad” both in terms of narrative and style, but this one impressed me much more right off the bat. I was shocked to see Grace Park (Boomer from “Battlestar Galactica”) on this show, as I had no idea she was moonlighting (like Tricia Helfer, a.k.a. the only reason I watch “Burn Notice”). She’s a welcome presence, and it’s nice to see her explore her more flirtatious side. Gil Bellows, who I knew was the same guy who Tim Robbins tutored in “The Shawshank Redemption”, gave a powerful performance in the pilot, almost unrecognizable under that handle-bar mustache. And even Benjamin Bratt did a fine job – I guess there is a reason he went into acting. I’m not entirely in love with this show but it surprised me enough to hook me in for at least a few episodes unless it takes a spectacular nosedive in quality.
How will it work as a series? Simultaneously barreling through Bratt’s character’s own addictions and the way the team interacts and deals with their cases should provide an enticing double narrative which should work very well, especially as it has time to develop.
How long will it last? Original series seem to be the thing for cable networks these days, and given the critical success of recent offerings like “Damages”, “Mad Men”, and “Breaking Bad”, I think this one will be on the air for at least the season, and if it gets good enough reviews, it should be back for season two next year.
Pilot grade: B
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