Yet another legal drama. But this one is more like a cross between a buddy-cop show and a legal drama. It’s more of a legal buddy dramedy.
Here is the synopsis of The Defenders straight from CBS:
“THE DEFENDERS stars Jim Belushi and Jerry O’Connell in a comedic drama about two colorful Las Vegas defense attorneys who go all-in when it comes to representing their clients. Nick and Pete are the local go-to guys with an eclectic client list who are still looking to hit their own jackpot. Leading the law firm of Morelli & Kaczmarek are Nick Morelli (Belushi), an earnest, hard-charging attorney who represents his clients to the best of his ability, no matter how big or small the case, and his partner, Pete Kaczmarek (O’Connell), whose passion for the law is matched only by his love of fast cars, beautiful women and expensive clothes. Joining them in their growing law practice is new associate Lisa Tyler (Jurnee Smollett), an enthusiastic young attorney looking to put her exotic dancing days behind her; and their young assistant, Sophie (Tanya Fischer), a spunky and sweet ingenue who is eager to please her bosses. As Lady Luck shines on their legal careers, the partners have their hands full when it comes to their personal lives. While Pete is busy cruising the Vegas Strip for his latest romantic conquest, Nick is focused on repairing his fractured marriage to his estranged wife, Jessica (Gillian Vigman), while remaining present in the life of their young son. No matter the offense, Nick and Pete aim to prove that when the stakes are high they’re willing to bet the house on the clients they defend in Sin City. ”
My First 10 Thoughts on the “Pilot” Episode of The Defenders:
1. Yes, this is still a lawyer show.
2. But the comedy is the main focus over the drama, which is a good thing.
3. Despite the age difference, Jim Belushi and Jerry O’Connell are believable as good friends.
4. Anyone else remember when Jurnee Smollett was a little girl and was on Full House? She was one of Michelle’s friends on that show I think. Good to see her jump from Friday Night Lights to this show.
5. Las Vegas is the best setting for this show.
6. All of the law stuff is not that original, though.
7. Most of the characters are stereotypes.
8. The cast is still fantastic.
9. In the same timeslot as two other law shows, but one is new and less unique (ABC’s The Whole Truth), while the other has been around for years and could be played out (NBC’s Law & Order: SVU). Can easily win that battle.
10. The Defenders is still a law show, but it plays up the comedy to a greater level and Jim Belushi and Jerry O’Connell seem to be having a lot of fun, which make this show more watchable.
