White Collar

Even though White Collar originally was on from 2009-2015, I just now got around to watching it now in 2024. I'm actually upset with myself for not watching it earlier because it was a really fun show to watch. Netflix acquired the rights last year and it immediately went to the Top 10 watched list and stayed there for months. It did so well that they're talking about rebooting it again. The reason the show works so well is its two stars, Matt Bomer (Neal Caffrey) and Tim DeKay (Peter Burke). Their chemistry is just fantastic. I'm currently on Season 4 right now. I've been flying through it, watching several episodes at a time. This is just an easy show to watch so if you're looking for a show that's just a fun watch then give White Collar a try.

Very clever and has your rooting for both the good guys (FBI) and the bad guy (Neal in this case). The pairing of the FBI couple is just right and of course Matt as the con reminds me so much of Pierce Brosnan in the movie "After the Sunset" in which he played a perfect con man and there grew to be a grudging respect between the con and the FBI guy (Woody).

I can see that happening here too and if this lives up to the first few episodes, I'll be tuning in each week as this show is refreshing. I'm tired of the gore in many of the top crime shows. I actually taped this and showed the first two episodes to a few friends that hadn't heard of it and now I have them hooked on it and they want to watch it each week. Let's hope the networks finally realize the gore is getting to be too much and this type of show really works and let's hope it lasts a long time.

If you are a fan of the buddy cop genre (if not, start with French Connection and work forwards), you'll know the basic rules:

1 - One 'straight' cop, one 'rogue' cop

2 - The two have a love/hate relationship, although deep down, it's love

3 - The pair learn about themselves and each other while solving wacky crimes

4 - Hilarity ensues

Since the genre itself starts off very close to satire, it's easy for a show to devolve into parody and idiocy - remember when David Addison turned into a freaking frog on Moonlighting? Luckily, White Collar hasn't gone in that direction.

In fact, it is funny, clever, well written, the cast is great, and they have obviously made a clear choice to focus on character relationships and not to obsess over getting all the real-life details exactingly accurate.

If you want heavy, serious drama you should watch The Wire; if you want silly comedy, watch Chuck; but if you want something smart and funny, but light, try White Collar. You can think of it as Burn Notice's older, more mature, brother.

(For the record, I like and enjoy every show mentioned in this review - except for maybe that frog episode.)

White Collar is an exceptional TV series. I just bought it on DVD and it does not disappoint. The characters are so good. The dynamic between Peter and Neil, Peter and Elizabeth, Mozzie and Elizabeth, Neil and Mozzie and the list goes on. Seasons 2, 3, 4, and 6 are the best in my opinion but there are very few misses in this show and most of those are at the beginning when there are just finding their footing. The acting and chemistry is especially on point with Willie Garson, Tim Dekay and Matt Bomer. But everyone is incredible. Overall it is very entertaining. Though they do overuse the Neil going rogue trope a bit too much, but other than that this show is perfect.

White Collar is a captivating and stylish crime drama that follows the partnership between the charming con artist Neal Caffrey and the FBI agent Peter Burke. The series kicks off with Neal's escape from a maximum-security prison, only to be captured by Peter Burke, who offers him a deal to assist the FBI in solving white-collar crimes.

As the unlikely duo teams up to crack cases involving art thefts, forgeries, and other sophisticated crimes, viewers are taken on a thrilling ride filled with clever twists, witty banter, and engaging character dynamics. Neal's charisma and expertise in the world of high-end crime perfectly complement Peter's by-the-book approach, leading to a dynamic partnership that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

One of the standout features of White Collar is its attention to detail when it comes to the intricate schemes and puzzles that Neal and Peter must unravel. The show's clever writing, combined with the chemistry between the lead actors Matt Bomer and Tim DeKay, creates a compelling narrative that keeps viewers invested in the characters' journeys.

Beyond its thrilling crime-solving plots, White Collar also delves into themes of loyalty, trust, and redemption, adding depth and emotional resonance to the series. The show strikes a perfect balance between lighthearted moments and intense drama, making it a must-watch for fans of crime procedurals and character-driven storytelling.

Overall, White Collar is a sophisticated and entertaining TV show that offers a unique blend of crime, humor, and heart. With its charismatic leads, intricate plots, and stylish presentation, the series stands out as a must-see for anyone looking for a smart and engaging television experience.