The best new police procedural that surprisingly makes you comfortable and cosy.
Adapted from the classic cop caper, the TV adaption carves its singularity in a time where demand and consumption of procedurals is diminishing, while still managing to stay remarkably true to its source material. Lethal Weapon the series, manages to do so, courtesy of its well-paced writing, outstanding chemistry between the two leads and the hilarity that ensues when Damon Wayans is asked to speak.
The pilot sets up the premise of the series introducing the viewers to the Lethal duo, while also hinting at an emphatic back story to each of them. In the premiere episode itself, the series manages to encapsulate everything people love about the film, as well as the genre. From high speed car chases to budding camaraderie; from explosive action to a beginning of a durable partnership, the series promises to be an appealing substitute for FOX’s veteran Bones.
The series marks Damon Wayans’ return to the television, albeit instead of multi-camera comedies the 56-year old actor was known for in the early 00’s, this is the first time the actor will be starring in a broadcast network procedural in a leading role. His partner in the series is played by Rectify-regular Clayne Crawford. Crawford and Wayans play off against each other well in the pilot promising viewers a memorable rapport that can be expected as the series continues.
While the bittersweet bromance between the two leads is palpable, the pilot of Lethal Weapon lacks a good 'case-of-the-week' plot to successfully compliment the duo's chemistry. Even though the pilot moves quickly and boasts admirable fast and furious action, the premise seems predictable with familiar motives and confrontations. Hopefully, the dearth of strong cases will be remedied as the season progresses.
Lethal Weapon, the series is created by Matthew Miller, who is best known for creating the short-lived preternatural procedural with an excellent premise, Forever. In addition to Lethal Weapon, Miller also has the upcoming single-camera law firm comedy Trail & Error that is scheduled for midseason on NBC. The pilot of Lethal Weapon was directed by McG, who is mostly credited as a producer on Supernatural, The OC, Chuck, Nikita, and most recently directed the pilot of the Freeform teen hit Shadowhunters.
So, if you're looking for a series that’ll keep you thoroughly entertained throughout the hour, gripping you enough to not want to switch the channel or hit pause, but not drain you of all your attention, then Lethal Weapon is the show for you. Especially, if you’re a fan of the original film.
Watch the trailer below.
