Presumed Innocent, the latest adaptation of Scott Turow's 1987 novel, offers a fresh take on a story that captivated audiences with its 1990 film version starring Harrison Ford. This 2024 series, crafted by David E. Kelley, introduces a stellar cast featuring Jake Gyllenhaal, Ruth Negga, Bill Camp, Renate Reinsve, and Peter Sarsgaard. The series embarks on a journey into a murder investigation that unsettles the Chicago Prosecuting Attorneys' office.

 

The first two episodes, "Bases Loaded" and "People vs. Rozat Sabich," immediately draw viewers into the complex dynamics of legal and personal turmoil. Chief Deputy Prosecutor Rusty Sabich, played by Jake Gyllenhaal, is confronted with the murder of his colleague, Carolyn Polhemus. Gyllenhaal delivers a compelling performance, balancing Rusty's professional dedication with his personal vulnerabilities. The narrative sets up the premise effectively, hinting at the intricate web of relationships and secrets within the office.

 

However, the series feels somewhat stretched, with the first two episodes appearing as though they could have been condensed into one. There is a lot happening, but the show seems to focus primarily on the whodunit aspect of the story, potentially overlooking other rich storylines. This emphasis on the mystery of whether Rusty committed the murder may leave viewers feeling that the plot's complexity is not fully utilized.

 

The performances by the cast are a highlight of the series. Gyllenhaal's portrayal of Rusty Sabich captures the character's internal struggle, while Ruth Negga and Peter Sarsgaard provide solid support. Bill Camp’s Raymond Horgan brings a sense of gravitas and loyalty, balancing Molto’s aggressive pursuit. The acting is commendable, considering the talent involved.

 

David E. Kelley's writing is sharp and engaging, capturing the essence of Turow's novel while updating it for contemporary audiences. The dialogue is crisp, and the narrative pacing maintains interest. The series benefits from high production values, with cinematography that sets the tone and mood for the unfolding drama. The use of Chicago’s urban landscape adds to the realism of the story.

 

Presumed Innocent (2024) starts off with promise, suggesting a series that is both thought-provoking and thrilling. While the pacing and focus on the whodunit aspect might leave some viewers wanting more from the narrative, the show’s strengths in acting, writing, and cinematography make it a worthwhile watch. As the series progresses, it will be interesting to see if it delves deeper into its subplots and maintains its momentum and intrigue. Fans of the original novel and film, as well as new viewers, are likely to find enough to appreciate in this new adaptation to stick it through till the end. While Apple provided the first seven episodes for viewing, only the first two are being reviewed. The series finale was not made available to press at the time of this review.