The premiere episode of “Suits LA,” titled “Seven Days a Week and Twice on Sunday,” aired with an editor’s rating of three stars. This new spin-off, directed by Aaron Korsh, revisits the beloved legal drama format but shifts the setting to Los Angeles, where the narrative unfolds through the character of Ted Black, portrayed by Stephen Amell.
“Suits LA” attempts to capture the charm of the original series, which became a streaming sensation long after its conclusion. The original “Suits” is known for its charismatic leads, particularly Gabriel Macht’s iconic portrayal of Harvey Specter. However, the premiere introduces a new character in Ted Black, a prosecutor turned celebrity lawyer, with a somewhat less dynamic entrance as he navigates legal and personal dilemmas.
The episode launches with a dramatic flashback of Ted engaging in a morally ambiguous tactic to secure a witness’s testimony, which concludes abruptly with an explosion—a sequence that has drawn comparisons to the more action-oriented style of Amell’s previous role on “Arrow.” This explosive introduction sets a distinct tone, one that diverges from the sleek charm of its predecessor.
As the story moves forward, viewers are introduced to Ted’s experiences at his law firm, Black Lane, which stands in stark contrast to the stylish Pearson Hardman. The firm faces challenges, including a contentious merger, highlighting internal power struggles led by Ted’s competitive colleague, Erica Rollins, played by Lex Scott Davis. The chemistry between Ted and Erica becomes apparent throughout the episode, suggesting potential for character development in future episodes.
The narrative takes a darker turn as it reveals the complexities of Ted’s past, particularly his strained relationship with a father whose neglect has left deep scars. This theme of familial conflict mirrors that of the original series, where character backgrounds often intertwined personal struggles with professional challenges.
Despite its ambitious attempts to balance a fast-paced legal drama with layered character arcs, “Suits LA” faces hurdles in character development and emotional payoff. The betrayals and corporate chess games presented may not resonate as deeply with viewers, lacking the foundation that made the relationships in the original so compelling.
In conclusion, “Suits LA” may have potential to grow into its own identity as it explores more nuanced character dynamics and finesses its storytelling approach, but its debut raises questions about whether it can recapture the magic of the original series. The show’s reliance on flashy moments needs to be balanced with deeper character work to achieve long-term success. As viewers engage with this new chapter in the “Suits” legacy, there remains hope that the series can evolve and find its stride in future episodes.