Presumed Innocent is a 2024 American psychological crime drama miniseries that premiered on Apple TV+. The series is based on the 1987 novel of the same name by Scott Turow, which was previously adapted into a 1990 feature film starring Harrison Ford and Brian Dennehy. The 2024 miniseries stars Jake Gyllenhaal, Ruth Negga, Bill Camp, O-T Fagbenle, Chase Infiniti, Nana Mensah, Renate Reinsve, Peter Sarsgaard, Kingston Rumi Southwick, and Elizabeth Marvel.
Plot:
The story revolves around Rusty Sabich (Jake Gyllenhaal), a talented and dedicated prosecutor in the Chicago District Attorney’s office. His life is shattered when his close colleague, Kathy Pomerantz (Juliet Marie Granger), is brutally murdered. Still reeling from the loss, Rusty is further stunned when he becomes the prime suspect in the case.
Rusty’s alibi is weak, his past is shrouded in mystery, and his conflicts at work have made him a target. Amidst the whirlwind of suspicion and public pressure, Rusty is forced to take matters into his own hands to find the truth and clear his name.
His quest to uncover the real killer leads Rusty deep into the dark secrets of the District Attorney’s office. He uncovers a web of corruption, bribery, and power manipulation, where the lines between good and evil are blurred.
Review:
Presumed Innocent is a gripping psychological crime drama with a suspenseful plot full of twists and turns. The series not only delivers thrills and suspense but also raises thought-provoking questions about justice, trust, and the nature of humanity.
Highlights:
- Excellent screenplay: Based on a renowned novel, the screenplay is tightly constructed and logical, with engaging and suspenseful plot points. The series skillfully weaves together elements of psychological drama, crime, and politics, creating a comprehensive picture of a justice system riddled with flaws and contradictions.
- Impressive performances: Jake Gyllenhaal delivers an outstanding performance as Rusty Sabich, a man grappling with grief while fighting to protect himself and find the truth. His performance is full of emotion, capturing the character’s inner turmoil with nuance and conviction. The supporting cast also contributes to the success of the series with memorable performances that contribute to the tense and mysterious atmosphere.
- Stunning visuals: The series is shot with modern cinematography techniques, resulting in beautiful and polished visuals. The settings are arranged thoughtfully, contributing to the film’s dark and mysterious atmosphere, which is fitting for the content.
Drawbacks:
- Slow pacing: Some viewers may find the pacing a bit slow in the early stages, but this is necessary to establish the setting and introduce the characters fully.
- Controversial ending: The ending of the series may leave some viewers feeling disappointed or unsatisfied. However, it is a conclusion that is consistent with the story’s logic and provides plenty of food for thought.
Conclusion:
Presumed Innocent is an exceptional psychological crime drama with a captivating plot, outstanding performances, and stunning visuals. The series not only provides entertaining viewing but also raises profound questions about justice, trust, and the nature of humanity. It is a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers, crime dramas, and those who enjoy exploring the complexities of the human condition.**
Additional thoughts:
- The series does an excellent job of exploring the themes of justice and presumption of innocence. Rusty’s journey to clear his name highlights the flaws in the justice system and the importance of due process.
- The series also delves into the complexities of human nature. The characters are all flawed and morally ambiguous, making them relatable and thought-provoking.
- Presumed Innocent is a must-watch for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a thought-provoking and suspenseful drama.
Overall, Presumed Innocent is a gripping and thought-provoking psychological crime drama that will stay with you long after you finish watching it.
You can watch the trailer here:
