In the second episode of Matlock, titled “Rome in a Day,” the series maintains its suspenseful charm, continuing the trend established in its premiere. Writer-producer Jennie Snyder Urman, known for her work on Jane the Virgin, introduces moments that leave audiences on the edge of their seats, highlighting her ability to craft compelling cliffhangers.
This week’s episode sees Matty grappling with self-doubt, which adds depth to the storyline. The tension builds from the onset, with a vivid dream sequence featuring the original Matlock theme, where Matty’s identity is questioned, referencing an oversight about Andy Griffith’s Matlock’s history. This anxiety lingers throughout the episode, as Matty recalls nearly mishandling her first case due to her emotions, prompting her to focus on staying composed.
Matty strategically plans her office interactions, hoping to win over her colleague Olympia by inserting herself into a tense custody handover situation. While she adopts a charming persona, she struggles to navigate personal conflicts, particularly with Sarah, who resents Matty intruding on her relationship with Olympia. This underlying tension culminates in an outburst from Matty, threatening the careful facade she has built.
Despite her careful planning, Matty faces difficulties, including receiving criticism for attempting to bond with a grieving parent by sharing her own tragic loss. These challenges serve to humanize Matty, making her relatable and vulnerable, which is essential for the series’ longevity. The narrative builds anticipation as Matty’s struggles lead her to confront her own limitations.
In a twist towards the end, Matty’s casual criticism of Olympia’s leadership style leads to a blunder when she accidentally leaves behind her takeout. This misstep escalates into a significant plot twist, revealing Matty and her grandson Alfie’s clever ruse involving surveillance on Olympia’s actions, as they attempt to gather evidence related to the firm’s alleged malpractice.
While the courtroom narrative remains a weaker aspect of the show, this episode includes a murder case that reflects the original Matlock’s essence. Matty and her peers work diligently to uncover the truth behind the accusations against a developmentally delayed youth, showcasing the importance of social justice while prompting moral questions about the motivations behind such cases.
Overall, the episode weaves together personal challenges, courtroom drama, and unexpected plot developments, sustaining momentum and intrigue for the series. The intricacies of Matty’s character, alongside the ongoing legal battles, promise engaging storylines as the season progresses.