The first time when I watched the Conviction pilot I wasn't really captivated by it, probably because of my high expectations, but after watching the episode a second time for the purpose of writing this article I was quite surprised by the quality of it. The writing, acting and pace were a lot more enjoyable and Hayley's performance was more convincing than I initially thought.
If you liked Hayley Atwell in the role of Peggy Carter, you maybe won't be the biggest fan of her Conviction incarnation Hayes Morrison. Even though both women share some character traits, as being smart, rebellious and driven women, they express them in very different ways allowing Hayley to shine in a new light throughout the pilot. My first impression of Hayes is that she is too smart for the fake world she grew up in as a President's daughter and if she isn't fighting everyone she meets along her way she is doing something wrong. She misses a purpose in her life and the Conviction Integrity Unit could be what she was looking for.
The premise of the show is very simple, D.A. Connor Wallace (Eddie Cahill) formed the Conviction Integrity Unit (CIU) to help him in his future campaign for Mayor. The unit's job is to rehash old cases, exam them thoroughly, turn over convictions and give innocent people their happy endings. Connor put the team already together and assigned Hayes as the head of Unit.
Shawn Ashmore plays Sam Spencer another attorney who was supposed to run the CIU but was pushed aside cause of Hayes' popularity. The two of them have an interesting chemistry going on, but not as interesting as Hayes' and Merrin Dungey's character Maxine Bohen. Maxine is an ex-cop who pushes Hayes just when and how she needs to be pushed in this pilot. Also part of the team Frankie Cruz (Manny Montana) a forensic specialist, very passionate and emotionally involved cause of personal attachments. Last but not least Tessa Larson, played by TWD sweetheart Emily Kinney, plays a hard working paralegal, very engaged and with a lot of positive energy. By the end of the pilot, a dark side or secret of every team member is revealed or teased.
The first case of the CIU revolves around a young African-American boy who was convicted for murdering his girlfriend eight years ago. The team's debate and examination of evidence had its good and bad moments, accelerating and decelerating the pace of the show.
Conviction's probably biggest flaw is that is not blowing your mind, in a TV landscape filled with a variety of genres and stories the show does fall flat as a "simple" procedural. Still, in this case, simplicity works and Hayley is very convincing in her role and very enjoyable to watch. The supporting cast is relatable and strong enough to deliver interesting character arcs in the future.
The pacing works very well, with just a couple of redundant scenes. The story flows nicely and reaches its peak emotional and conviction wise and with a nice strong ending.
Other tidbits:
- Someone gets called "Moron" a lot.
- A pig will play a big part in resolving the case.
- Hayley's Spanish is very convincing.
CONVICTION premieres on October 3rd 10/9c on ABC.
