All Rise

A nice premiere episode. Two court cases are presented to a new judge who gets appointed after an older judge retires after a "meltdown" of the bailiff in his courtroom. (Involving a non-fatal shooting.) She is there to witness it. Seems like the intent is to present a semi-dramatic version of "Night Court" with several likeable" supporting actors. She has also made an adversary of a well-respected female detective.

Most of the negative reviews of this series dismiss the show altogether based on a lack of realism.

The truth is that no legal drama serves as an accurate depiction of a real life courtroom. Not even Law and Order or Matlock are realistic interpretations of true court proceedings. Further, the grandiose behaviors that are consistently offered under the guise of drama would never be acceptable in real life court proceedings. Regardless, the show is entertaining.

I suspect that those who dismiss the show outright have a problem with the mostly diverse cast and the main antagonist being a woman of color. The writing and production are as good as anything else on network TV. Further, I'm noticing that any new show that addresses racial commentary or issues of bias is immediately criticized as social justice signaling or promoting liberal ideals. But, I wonder two things: what's wrong with social justice? and what's the opposite of social justice since so many are in favor of its antonym?

I think I'm going to like this. The writing is sharp. The characters are approachable. Simone Missick has a serenity that balances the rapid fire dialogue. It's going to have to self correct on edging toward being sappy but, otherwise, I think this has potential. I give this pilot a 7 (good) out of 10. {Legal Drama}

I loved this show when it first aired and was so pleased OWN made the wise decision to continue it. Everything about this court room drama is compelling. Great plot lines, stellar acting and timely topics of discussion. It has incredibly strong leads and is timely for the times we live!

Many of the other reviewers here seem to have no understanding of race and class issues in the USA, and so have a hard time understanding the point of the show. Realism isn't the point, social commentary is. My opinion is that most people don't want to think when they watch TV - especially when presented with something new to them. Read the below reviews with that in mind and see what you think.