The verdict is in for The Lincoln Lawyer, and it looks like a win for the viewers.
The Lincoln Lawyer series on Netflix arrives on May 13th for a 10-episode season. Once again, a popular Michael Connelly book character graces the small screen in a big way. Mickey Haller is a charming and clever defense attorney who claims to do his best work riding around Los Angeles in the back of his Lincoln vehicles. Mickey has not been practicing law for about a year now after a surfing accident leads to a drug addiction. Now in recovery with a windfall of cases, including a very high-profile one, The Lincoln Lawyer is ready to ride.
Here are three compelling arguments for why The Lincoln Lawyer series works.
#1 A richly textured cast of characters
Mickey (Manuel Garcia-Rulfo) cannot assume the duties of The Lincoln Lawyer without help from practice manager Lorna (Becki Newton), investigator Cisco (Angus Sampson), and a driver Izzy (Jazz Raycole) with each of whom he shares a unique bond. We also get to know his first ex-wife, Maggie (Neve Campbell), and mother of his teenage daughter Hayley (Krista Warner). Interestingly, Maggie practices law at the other table as a prosecutor with the District Attorney’s office.
Do not let the fact that Mickey uses contact names “First Wife” and “Second Wife” on his phone fool you into thinking there is a lot of relational conflict in his life. Okay, maybe the office dog is a little bit of a sore spot for him. Otherwise, while Mickey’s relationships may be a bit unorthodox, at the end of the day, these people are family to him, a foundation of support when he inherits the entire caseload from someone’s practice. We are initially introduced to these characters in relation to Mickey. Over time, however, we become interested in them as individuals with their own stories to tell.
Watch especially for Becki Newton’s fabulous performance as Lorna. Lorna is smart, efficient and ready to cheer for those she loves, all while sporting high heels and big hair. Still, there might be more to Lorna’s story than we initially realize. Other standout performances on the law enforcement side of things include Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine as Detective Griggs and Jamie McShane as Detective Lee Lankford. Christopher Gorham digs deep into his portrayal of Mickey’s high-profile client Trevor Elliott who has been accused of murdering his wife and her lover. Let’s just say there is not a boring character in the bunch. Even the various judges have their own unique personalities.
#2 Clever writing
Ted Humphrey serves as showrunner, writer, and executive producer for the series in addition to having experience as an attorney himself. Michael Connelly, author of The Lincoln Lawyer book series, also serves as an executive producer on the show. Combining the talents of these two gentlemen with an impressive writers’ room results in a compelling mixture of authenticity and suspense. You want the story to be exciting and believable. This is not science fiction after all!
Interestingly, The Lincoln Lawyer also offers a healthy dose of humor for a series about an attorney who defends clients accused of some dark things. At the same time, prepare yourself for audible gasps as well. Expect a full range of emotions as cases large and small are argued on screen.
As a reader of The Lincoln Lawyer novels, it is genuinely exciting to see these characters come to life on television. Do not feel like you must compare the books to the show. The show stands on its own while having a solid foundation of source material from Connelly’s novel The Brass Verdict. Do watch for updated themes and twists that keep you on your toes.
#3 Momentum
There is a quote from Mickey at the beginning of an episode: “One thing I know, in court, success is all about momentum”.
I think this also applies to what I believe will be the ultimate measure of success for The Lincoln Lawyer in the eyes of the viewers. The series is very adept at building momentum. Plan to remain at apt attention as Mickey and Maggie build their respective cases. Prepare to stay near the edge of your seat as reveals propel you into the next episode. Get ready to be intrigued as backstories of characters unfold.
In the beginning, the show lays the groundwork with entertainment and clever exposition. But by the end, you are fully invested in the outcome of these cases after digging through case files, investigating leads, selecting jurors, filing motions, negotiating plea deals, and finally, but most importantly, finding the truth. It is an investment that is rewarded with a satisfying return, and hopefully a second season.
Tune into The Lincoln Lawyer on May 13th on Netflix.
Interview with The Lincoln Lawyer showrunner Ted Humphrey
Stay tuned for ongoing coverage including interviews, recaps, and all new episodes of our The Lincoln Lawyer themed episodes on our podcast for SoManyShows.com.
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