Good Behavior

Good Behavior is an American television drama series that aired on TNT from 2016 to 2017. Developed by Blake Crouch and Chad Hodge, this darkly comedic show is based on a series of novels by Crouch featuring the enigmatic character, Letty Raines. The show masterfully blends elements of drama, crime, thriller, and dark humor.

Good Behavior is centered around Letty Raines, portrayed by Michelle Dockery, known for her role in the award-winning Downton Abbey. Drawing away from her British period-drama roots, Dockery brings to life a complex and deeply flawed character riddled with vices. Letty is a con artist and thief, fresh out of prison and battling addiction, trying to stay afloat while attempting to mend her relationship with her 10-year-old son, Jacob, and her estranged mother, Estelle.

A fascinating aspect of Good Behavior is Letty's psychological dichotomy. While she is consistently on a mission of self-destruction, simultaneously, she is trying to be a better person, desperately seeking redemption and self-improvement, to be the mother that her son deserves. Unfortunately, her life begins an new entanglement when she crosses paths with Javier, a hitman played by the charismatic Juan Diego Botto.

Javier, despite his dubious profession, operates under an oddly firm set of morals and fosters a tight-knit bond with his family. His entrance into Letty's life is chaotic but sparks a strong mutual infatuation. This presents an even more complex spin to the plot, with Letty getting entwined in Javier's dangerous life of crime.

Functioning on diverse yet complementary character arcs, Dockery and Botto's performances are of stellar quality. The show's unique twist on the anti-hero trope, paired with dexterously layered storytelling, provides an on-screen narrative that’s hard to resist.

The creators of the show leave no stone unturned to weave the plots intricately. The series gradually allows viewers to peel back the layers of its protagonists' backgrounds, motivations, and relationships. As the show progresses, the viewers are offered a greater insight into the dynamics of the dysfunctional yet emotionally gripping bond between Letty and Javier, as well as the adverse impacts of their individual histories, and their struggles with addiction and loneliness.

On one hand, the narrative is driven by Letty's frantic challenges between maintaining sobriety, her constant endeavour to be a better parent, and her fight against her inherent propensity for chaos. On the other hand, Javier's challenges and consciences concerning his chosen profession, deep-seated family issues, as well as his complex relationship with Letty, create opposing tensions that complement the plot.

While dealing with the gritty reality of crime and addiction, Good Behavior tactfully intermingles moments of dark comedy, providing much-needed relief from the series' intense high-stakes scenarios. Furthermore, the show showcases thrilling cons, clever tricks and relentless chases embossed with noir-ish hues.

Elevating the narrative of the show is not only the multi-dimensional character portrayals or the well-designed storylines, but also the picturesque locations and the meticulously chosen background score, resonating with the dark yet alluring themes of Good Behavior.

Good Behavior, despite its woeful brevity over two seasons, serves up a delectable treat of complex characters, thrilling sequences, heartfelt moments, thoughtful dialogue, daring plot twists, and masterful performances, all flavored with a captivating blend of suspense, comedy, and drama.

The relationship between Letty and Javier forms the heart of Good Behavior. As they dive deeper into their risky world of crime, trying to run from their pasts but unable to escape their inherent penchant for chaos, viewers are treated to an engaging tale of love, redemption, and survival.

Overall, Good Behavior is not your average crime drama series. It offers an unconventional exploration into the psyche of its complex characters, allowing the audience a view of their damaged yet human sides. Despite the premise of crime and the consequential chaos, at its core, the show constantly attempts to deconstruct the meaning and pursuit of 'good behavior,' making it a compelling watch indeed.