Pilot Review: The Finder

The Finder (FOX)
Premiered January 12 at 9pm

I have to admit that I didn’t expect much from this show at all, having given up quickly on “Bones” after finding it decent enough but hardly worth watching on a regular basis. While I’m not sure that I’d be ready to commit to this series every week, I did thoroughly enjoy the pilot. This was my first introduction to these characters since I didn’t view the “Bones” episode that introduced them, and they’re one entertaining bunch. Geoff Stults, fortunately, is infinitely better than he was on ABC’s awful “Happy Town,” and he reminds me somewhat of Mark Valley, who before “Human Target” never impressed me and then delivered exactly in the right way when called upon for a role like this. Lying down in the middle of the road and spreading his arms to deduce clues was a standout moment that indicated that he is not your normal investigator. This is a superb role for Michael Clarke Duncan, hilarious as his brawny sidekick Leo, and I also love both of the women featured in the main cast: Mercedes Masohn as U.S. Marshal Isabel, and Maddie Hasson as the feisty Willa. At first, it seemed to be that Cooper could well be a regular character as well, but I think he’s gone after this first installment. This show definitely has its own tone, separate from “Bones” and altogether weirder and more relaxed, if the penciled names in the opening credits are any indication. This is just the kind of show that FOX should be producing, funny and enthralling, with a bit of crime and crime-solving mixed in. It definitely surprised me in a good way.

How will it work as a series? Each week, Walter is going to have someone new to find, and that would make this your average procedural with a wacky protagonist. Yet Willa’s gypsy ties and the complex relationship among the other three main characters might make this one stand out and necessitate watching each and every week.
How long will it last? Unfortunately, this premiere was not a hit in any way, shape, or form for FOX, which leads me to believe that the network won’t want to keep it around for long. Thursdays at 9pm has always been one of the most competitive time slots, and perhaps this would have been better off elsewhere. I wouldn’t give up hope just yet, but it’s not looking good right now.

Pilot grade: B+