Review of ‘Suits LA’: A Bold and Rewarding Departure from the Original Series

Suits LA: A Heartfelt Evolution from the Original

Suits LA brings more emotional depth than I initially anticipated. The original series revolved around the clever and ambitious Mike Ross, played by Patrick J. Adams, who operated without a traditional law license. The new spinoff, however, focuses on accomplished lawyers facing demons from their past, demonstrating how unresolved issues continue to plague their present lives.

Playing with Familiarity

At first, I was skeptical about whether this series could live up to the legacy of Suits. Nevertheless, I couldn’t shake the feeling that Ted Black, portrayed by Stephen Amell, resonates with the spirit of Harvey Specter, famously played by Gabriel Macht. Their similar motivations and cunning strategies are evident, and Amell’s vocal delivery uncannily mimics Macht’s. I expected Amell would struggle to shed his persona from Arrow, but he delivers a refreshing take on a high-powered character.

SUITS LA -- 'Seven Days a Week and Twice on Sunday' Episode 101 -- Pictured: Bryan Greenberg as Rick Dodson -- — (Photo by: David Astorga/NBC)

Signature Suits Tropes Revisited

In the opening episodes of Suits LA, I noticed familiar elements, such as the frequent “walk and talk”scenes through open-concept offices. This stylistic choice always raised eyebrows in the original, particularly given the secretive nature of their profession. One has to wonder why critical discussions happen in such public settings.

Setting the Scene: A Shift from Manhattan to Los Angeles

Transitioning from the corporate hub of Manhattan to the vibrant landscape of Los Angeles introduces new dynamics. Instead of corporate law, Black & Lane specializes in entertainment and criminal law. The premier episode features a producer embroiled in controversy over a gun’s use, echoing real-life events and suggesting that Suits LA could draw from celebrity culture for its storylines. This shift offers an intriguing perspective that could redefine the series.

Exploring the Criminal Angle

The criminal law aspect of Suits LA is ambitious, especially given the plethora of shows like Law & Order that already tackle similar themes. However, the intertwining of celebrity scandals adds a novel moral complexity to character motivations, potentially enriching the narrative.

Dynamic Characters: Analyzing Key Performances

A standout character at Black & Lane is Amanda Stevens, played by Maggie Grace. As a pro bono lawyer with a strong sense of justice, her privileged background might introduce moral ambiguity, making her character’s journey one to watch closely throughout the season.

Initially, I anticipated that Rick Dodsen, portrayed by Bryan Greenberg, would capture my attention as my favorite character. Having enjoyed his performances in previous roles, I wondered how he would embody a corporate antagonist. To my delight, his character thrives on the complexity crafted by the writing and his performance, making him an intriguing figure in the narrative.

SUITS LA -- 'Seven Days a Week and Twice on Sunday' Episode 101 -- Pictured: Lex Scott Davis as Erica Rollins -- — (Photo by: David Astorga/NBC)

Still, my unexpected favorite is Erica Rollins, played by Lex Scott Davis. She embodies traits reminiscent of earlier iconic female characters from Suits: the strategic foresight of Donna, the leadership qualities of Jessica, and the integrity of Rachel. Davis brings a powerful presence, serving as a formidable counterpart to her colleagues, and I eagerly await her character’s development.

Comparative Color: Filling Louis Litt’s Shoes

While Louis Litt’s quirky essence was a hallmark of the original series, Suits LA opts not to fill that particular void. Rick Hoffman’s charismatic portrayal is missed, but newcomers like Leah bring a different charm. Although not as eccentric, Leah is quirky and embodies the underdog spirit that audiences can root for.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Suits LA

Many viewers may experience a significant tonal and cultural shift with Suits LA, yet this transformation holds promise. As characters confront their pasts and navigate the intricate world of double-crossing and legal battles, it will be fascinating to observe how they evolve. This fresh take on a beloved franchise invites us to stay tuned.

Suits LA is set to premiere on February 23 on NBC, with streaming availability on Peacock the following day.

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