Perry Mason

Perry Mason, a captivating, eight episode, crime drama series that premiered on the American premium cable network HBO in 2020, brought new life to the well-known television character of the mid-twentieth century, presenting it in a groundbreaking and modern way. The show is set in a dramatically recreated 1930s Los Angeles, complete with a rich history, gritty aesthetics, and a captivating noir setting.

The title character, Perry Mason, is embodied by the gifted actor Matthew Rhys, formerly of "The Americans". Rhys' portrayal of Mason is notably and purposefully different from that seen in previous incarnations of the character - a weathered and gritty private detective, rather than an unbeatable defense attorney. Struggling with the emotional and physical scars of his time in World War I, this Mason is prone to ethical missteps and legally questionable choices.

The show boasts a colorful cast of extraordinary talent who traverse the great depths of humanity and society in this trying era. This ensemble harmoniously befits the show’s themes of corruption, legal injustice, religious manipulation, and the heavy toll of post-war fallout.

The plot centers around a heart-wrenchingly baffling case involving a kidnapped and murdered child. In grappling with the case, Perry Mason finds himself entangled in a plot that spirals into greater mysteries, penetrating the high and low echelons of Los Angeles. As Mason navigates his way through a dense labyrinth of lies, deceit, and complicity, the show reveals the city's fabric of corruption extending from the police forces all the way to the city's spiritual leaders, symbolized by the captivating evangelist Sister Alice, portrayed by Tatiana Maslany.

religious character is utilized not as a cliché, but as a dynamic tool to explore relevant questions about faith, manipulation, and the powerful influence of organized religion in society. Her exhilarating performance deserves a special mention for its raw intensity and its striking juxtaposition against the crumbling world around her.

The writers have composed complex characters who are multi-dimensional, fleshed out and not easily labeled as villains or heroes. Instead, they are realistic, flawed individuals, navigating troubled waters. The narrative is further enhanced by the striking cinematography, which effectively captures the mood of the period and gives the show a distinctive look and feel. The show is steeped in rich historical context, artful storytelling, and an exploration of America's great depression era that unravels elegantly over the course of the series.

The complexity of the themes explored complements the dark, beautifully-shot setting of 1930s Los Angeles. The economical struggles, the growing divide between the rich and poor, the rampant corruption in establishments vested with power–all these elements are presented in a nuanced and personal manner by focusing on the individual struggles of Perry and the characters surrounding him.

Juliet Rylance in the role of Della Street, Mason’s ingenious, ambitious secretary, deserves a nod for her remarkable performance, confronting the restrictions faced by women in a predominantly male dominated professional world. Shea Whigham as Detective Pete Strickland, Mason’s partner and confidante renders a gritty and realistic portrayal of a private detective stuck in the corrupt and complicated world of Los Angeles.

An aspect that deserves special mention is the brilliant original score by Terence Blanchard, famed jazz musician and composer. The subtle, atmospheric style elevates the series and amplifies many of the heart pounding, dramatic scenes.

Although Perry Mason broadcasts on a premium cable platform, the creators made the daring choice of slow-burning storytelling, focusing on character developments and situational nuances over the instant gratification of rapidly solved cases. This might not resonate with all viewers, but for those with an appreciation for period pieces laden with rich characters, complex themes, and stunning visuals, it is a rewarding journey.

In conclusion, HBO's Perry Mason is a fresh, reimagined interpretation of the popular franchise. It offers a well-measured blend of courtroom drama, police procedural, and a reflection on societal conditions of the time. The series unwinds slowly, meticulously, and almost cinematically, establishing a world and characters that feel not only real in their own context but echo back to our own realities as well. Though it shares the namesake of the classic, the show is unquestionably original, holding its own against the vast library of modern television.