NBC’s ‘Suits LA’: A Pale Imitation of a Beloved Original
NBC has attempted to capitalize on the renewed popularity of its former legal dramedy "Suits" by launching a spin-off series entitled "Suits LA". However, this new iteration falls short of the original’s appeal, lacking the humor, charm, and captivating characters that made "Suits" such a binge-worthy success.
A Bargain-Basement Recreation
"Suits LA" possesses the superficial trappings of its parent show—polished professionals in tailored suits, fast-paced dialogue, and a flirtatious atmosphere. However, it fails to capture the essence of what made the original series so compelling. The dialogue lacks wit and humor, and the characters are not nearly as interesting or relatable as Harvey Specter and Mike Ross.
A Disjointed and Unfulfilling Pilot
The pilot episode of "Suits LA" is a confusing and disorienting affair. The story jumps between different time periods and introduces a plethora of characters without giving viewers a chance to connect with any of them. The betrayal that is meant to drive the plot feels forced and unbelievable, given the limited time invested in establishing the relationships between the characters.
A Mishmash of Disparate Elements
"Suits LA" suffers from a lack of focus and direction. It attempts to be a Hollywood-centric legal drama, incorporating elements of both "Entourage" and "Law & Order". However, these disparate influences clash rather than complement each other, resulting in a disjointed and unsatisfying viewing experience.
Ted Black: A Lackluster Protagonist
Stephen Amell, known for his role in "Arrow", is a competent actor, but he lacks the charisma and magnetism necessary to carry a lead role in a show like "Suits". His character, Ted Black, is a bland and uninspired protagonist, lacking the charm and intelligence that made Harvey Specter such a memorable character.
Missed Opportunity for Friendship
One of the highlights of the original "Suits" series was the deep friendship between Harvey Specter and Mike Ross. However, "Suits LA" squanders this opportunity by blowing up the potential friendship between Ted and his colleague Stuart in the very first episode. This decision deprives the show of a much-needed emotional core.
Erica and Leah: A Glimmer of Hope
The most promising moments in "Suits LA" come from the interactions between Erica and Leah, two supporting characters who are tasked with the show’s Hollywood lawyer B-plots. Their chemistry and humor provide a welcome respite from the uninspired and convoluted main storyline.
A Spin-Off That Falls Flat
Overall, "Suits LA" is a disappointing spin-off that fails to live up to the legacy of its predecessor. It lacks the heart, soul, and compelling characters that made the original series so beloved. Without significant improvements, "Suits LA" is destined to remain a pale imitation of a once-great show.
