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Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
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Creators: Rand Ravich
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2 seasons, 32 episodes, 45-minute runtime
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In the realm of TV shows, few manage to blend mystery, drama, and character development as seamlessly as Life (2007). This show, although not as widely recognized as some of its contemporaries, carved a niche for itself with its unique premise, engaging storyline, and compelling characters. Over two seasons, Life offered viewers a fresh take on the crime drama genre, making it a show worth revisiting or discovering anew.
The Premise
At its core, Life follows Charlie Crews, a detective who returns to the police force after being wrongfully imprisoned for 12 years. His conviction for a triple murder is overturned thanks to new DNA evidence, and Crews settles back into his role as a detective with a substantial financial settlement and a changed outlook on life. This premise sets the stage for a series that explores not just the crimes Crews solves in each episode, but also his personal journey of readjustment and the larger mystery of who framed him.
Characters and Performances
Charlie Crews
Played by Damian Lewis, Crews is not your typical TV detective. His time in prison has left him with a Zen-like approach to life, often quoting philosophy and opting for fruit over fast food. Lewis’s portrayal is nuanced, capturing Crews’s complexities—from his struggles with reintegrating into a world that moved on without him to his relentless pursuit of truth.
Dani Reese
Sarah Shahi plays Dani Reese, Crews’s partner. Reese has her own demons, battling drug addiction and the pressures of living up to her father’s legacy in the police force. The dynamic between Crews and Reese evolves from skepticism and tension to mutual respect and a deep, albeit platonic, bond. Shahi’s performance brings depth to Reese, making her much more than the typical “tough cop” stereotype.
Ted Earley
Adam Arkin’s Ted Earley is another standout. Earley, Crews’s former cellmate and financial advisor, provides comic relief but also serves as a moral compass and friend to Crews. Their relationship adds a layer of humanity and warmth to the show, highlighting themes of loyalty and redemption.
Storytelling and Structure
Life distinguishes itself with its storytelling approach. Each episode features a standalone case, but there’s also an overarching narrative concerning Crews’s quest to uncover the conspiracy that led to his wrongful conviction. This dual structure keeps the show engaging on multiple levels—offering the satisfaction of a case closed by the end of the episode while also enticing viewers with the slow unraveling of a larger mystery.
The show also employs flashbacks effectively, providing glimpses into Crews’s time in prison. These moments are not just filler; they’re essential to understanding his character and the transformation he underwent behind bars.
Themes and Messages
Change and Adaptation
One of the most compelling aspects of Life is its exploration of change and adaptation. Crews’s return to the police force and society serves as a broader commentary on the challenges of adjusting to drastic changes in life. His Zen philosophy, often seen through his interactions with others, emphasizes the importance of adapting and finding peace amidst chaos.
The Concept of Freedom
Freedom, or the lack thereof, is a recurring theme. For Crews, freedom comes not just from being exonerated but also from understanding and accepting his past. The show prompts viewers to consider what it means to be truly free, both physically and mentally.
The Search for Truth
At its heart, Life is a quest for truth. Crews’s determination to clear his name and uncover the conspiracy against him drives much of the narrative. This search for truth extends beyond Crews’s personal story, touching on the idea that truth is often complex and multifaceted.
Reception and Legacy
While Life was well-received by critics, praising its writing, performances, and fresh take on the crime drama genre, it struggled to find a large audience. The 2007–2008 Writers Guild of America strike and subsequent scheduling challenges didn’t help, leading to its cancellation after two seasons.
Despite its premature end, Life has maintained a dedicated fan base. Its blend of procedural structure with long-term storytelling, along with its philosophical undertones and character depth, set it apart from other shows of its time. For many, it remains a hidden gem in the TV landscape, a testament to the show’s quality and the impact it had on its viewers.
Conclusion
Life (2007) stands out as a unique and thought-provoking take on the crime drama genre. With its intriguing premise, rich characters, and thematic depth, it offers a viewing experience that is both entertaining and meaningful. Though it lasted only two seasons, its exploration of themes like freedom, truth, and adaptation, coupled with standout performances, make it a show worth watching. For those looking for a series that combines the thrill of a procedural drama with the complexity of long-term storytelling, Life is an excellent choice.