The Sweet Old Lady With a Secret Mission
Viewers expecting a simple gender-swapped version of the classic TV show starring Andy Griffith were treated with an unexpected twist at the end of the episode. Instead of seeing the sweet little old Madeline “Matty” Matlock go home to her modest house and cat, we find out that this brilliant, 60-something lawyer is actually on a secret mission to bust up the law firm that could have prevented opioids from killing so many people (like her daughter, whose son she is now raising with her husband.)
Matty’s targets are Olympia (Skye P. Marshall), a senior attorney and key rainmaker with a thirst for justice; Olympia’s ex-husband/attorney Julian (Jason Ritter), and his father Julian Sr. (Beau Bridges), who heads the firm that Matty wants to destroy.
The “Matlock” Deception
Show creator and showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman knew she wanted to subvert the classic Matlock image by presenting the character as a “spy” — an undercover agent posing as a naive old lady. This deception adds an intriguing layer of complexity and suspense to the show, as Matty attempts to uncover the truth and bring justice to those affected by the opioid crisis. Urman explained that the show’s “spine of steel” comes from Matty’s determination to expose the law firm’s dark secrets and hold them accountable. She’s not just seeking justice for her daughter, she’s seeking to protect the vulnerable and prevent future tragedies.
Playing the Game
The reveal of Matty’s true identity in the premiere episode marks the beginning of a “serialized” plot that spans the season. In the pilot, viewers get to experience the comedic “fish-out-of-water” dynamic as Matty navigates the corporate world of high-powered lawyers while secretly plotting their downfall. The next episode, however, takes viewers deeper into the intricacies of Matty’s mission as her secret comes to light, and the show’s focus shifts towards her undercover operation.
Unraveling the Mystery
The show’s central mystery involves Matty’s quest to expose the law firm’s role in the opioid crisis. The pilot episode establishes the core players – Olympia, Julian, and Julian Sr. – and sets up the stakes of Matty’s mission. But as the season unfolds, we can expect to see more layers added to the story, as Matty delves deeper into the firm’s shady dealings and uncovers the true extent of their involvement in the opioid crisis. The show promises to deliver a “card flip” moment in each episode, as the mystery unfolds and Matty’s strategy takes shape.
The Heart of the Matter
The relationship between Matty and Olympia serves as the central love story of the series. Their dynamic is complex and layered – a mix of friendship, rivalry, and mutual respect. While Matty’s undercover mission puts a strain on their relationship, it also provides opportunities for their connection to deepen. The emotional journey of Matty and Olympia serves as a central theme of the series, exploring themes of trust, betrayal, and redemption. As Matty’s mission progresses, the stakes increase, and her emotions become a central part of the narrative.
A Masterful Performance
Kathy Bates, who plays Matty, brings a masterful performance to the role, showcasing her ability to portray both comedic and dramatic nuances with equal expertise. She brings an air of authenticity and gravitas to the role, making Matty’s undercover mission all the more believable. Urman praised Bates’ dedication to the role, noting her ability to convey multiple layers of emotion through her performance.
Matlock: A Twist on Tradition
“Matlock” has taken a bold approach to the classic legal drama formula, presenting a fresh take on the genre with a modern twist. The series is a perfect blend of humor, suspense, and heart, and it’s clear that the creative team is committed to delivering a compelling and thought-provoking show. With its complex characters, intricate storylines, and masterful performances, the new “Matlock” has all the ingredients to become a modern classic.
