Review of the series Presumed Innocent

 Presumed Innocent Review A Slow Burn Thriller that Keeps You Guessing

Presumed Innocent masterfully blends elements of crime and mystery, crafting an intriguing and captivating watch. While perfect for solo or group viewings, its mature themes and content make it unsuitable for family audiences (no spoilers!).

Review of the series Presumed Innocent

The Story

The series revolves around Rusty, a successful lawyer, devoted husband, and loving father working for the District Attorney. His life, a testament to legal brilliance and an impeccable reputation, crumbles when he's suddenly accused of murdering his colleague. 

This isn't just any colleague; a past affair complicates matters, plunging Rusty into a maelstrom of suspicion and intrigue. We follow his journey as he fights to clear his name and uncover the truth behind the murder.

Analysis

Presumed Innocent excels in building suspense through psychological thrills. It delves into the intricacies of the human psyche and how buried secrets can shatter one's present. 

The series highlights Rusty's internal struggle as he grapples with protecting his family and reputation while confronting a truth that's far more complex than he imagined.

The eight episodes unfold with a gradually building pace. The initial few episodes, particularly the first five, might feel slow as they focus on character development and backstories. 

This deliberate pace amplifies the pressure on Rusty, revealing his psychological unraveling. 

As the series progresses, the pace picks up, culminating in a gripping climax filled with shocking revelations in the final three episodes.

Acting

The series boasts powerful and nuanced performances from its cast. Both the main and supporting actors deliver commendable portrayals, authentically conveying the fear, suspicion, and confusion surrounding their complex situation. Rusty, as the central figure, is brought to life with heartbreaking authenticity, making us empathize with his turmoil and wavering certainty.

What Works

Presumed Innocent shines in its ability to surprise the audience at crucial moments. The plot brims with unexpected twists and turns, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats, constantly questioning what will happen next. 

The series also benefits from sophisticated cinematography, enhancing the atmosphere of mystery and unease.

Presumed Innocent, a miniseries premiering on Apple TV+ in October 2023, dives into the thrilling world of legal battles and hidden truths. 

Based on Scott Turow's 1987 novel of the same name, the series marks the second adaptation of the story, following the 1990 film starring Harrison Ford.

The narrative centers around Rusty Sabich, a highly regarded prosecutor in Chicago, whose life takes a devastating turn when he finds himself accused of murdering his colleague, Carolyn Polhemus. 

The situation becomes even more complicated as Rusty desperately tries to hide a passionate affair he had with Carolyn, adding layers of secrecy and suspicion to the unfolding investigation.

Jake Gyllenhaal delivers a powerful performance as Rusty, a man fighting to prove his innocence while grappling with the ramifications of his past actions. 

The cast also features the talented Ruth Negga as Carolyn, the victim whose murder sets the story in motion, and Carmen Ejogo as Barbara Sabich, Rusty's wife forced to confront both the accusations against her husband and his infidelity.

Presumed Innocent delves into crucial themes of justice and morality, questioning the very nature of guilt and innocence within a flawed legal system. Secrets and betrayals simmer beneath the surface, driving the suspense as hidden truths about various characters are slowly revealed. 

The series also explores the human cost of ambition, showcasing how the pursuit of power can lead individuals down a dangerous path, corrupting relationships and morals along the way.

Critically acclaimed for its suspenseful plot and powerful performances, particularly Gyllenhaal's nuanced portrayal of a man caught in a web of deceit, the series has resonated with viewers. 

While some argue it doesn't quite reach the brilliance of the source material, Presumed Innocent remains a compelling and well-crafted thriller that will keep you hooked until the very end.

What Doesn't Work

While beautifully executed, the series has elements that might not resonate with everyone. The slow burn might test some viewers' patience, and certain plot details lack complete clarity, leaving some questions unanswered. 

However, these aspects don't significantly detract from the overall experience, especially for those who appreciate character-driven narratives and intricate conflicts.

Presumed Innocent is a must-watch for enthusiasts of crime and mystery. Despite a slow start, the finale delivers gripping suspense and shocking revelations. 

The stellar cast adds depth to the characters, making this series a compelling choice for a thrilling viewing experience. However, viewers should be mindful of the mature themes and content that might not be suitable for all.