Two Specific Reasons Elsbeth And High Potential Got Me Back Into Network Murder Mysteries

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If you had predicted at the beginning of autumn 2023 that two TV series I was eagerly awaiting in 2025 would be network murder mysteries, I wouldn’t have thought it possible. For quite some time, I had stayed away from procedurals, especially those involving murders, and hadn’t planned on returning to them. However, in 2024, I decided to catch up with as much of CBS’s Elsbeth and ABC’s High Potential as I could, and my perspective on these types of shows has undergone a complete reversal for two main reasons.

Both Elsbeth And High Potential Are Genuinely Hilarious And Heartfelt

It seems I struggle with intense network dramas because they’re overly serious. Shows like Law & Order, Criminal Minds, or NCIS have never appealed to me due to their heavy and dramatic nature. Granted, these qualities might be what draws many viewers to them. Nonetheless, I prefer a series that carries a lighter, more emotionally engaging tone most of the time. Fortunately, shows like High Potential and Elsbeth offer just that in abundance.

Initially, let’s discuss the TV program in question, which is headed by the charismatic comedienne Kaitlin Olson. Her inherent wit is evident and it translates beautifully into her portrayal of Morgan. This humor serves to disrupt the strictly professional atmosphere of the police department, significantly enhancing the show’s appeal. The dynamic between her and the serious Detective Karedec, along with her antics in dealing with crime-solving, results in an exhilarating and genuinely humorous series.

Carrie Preston’s character, much like Elsbeth, shines for a similar reason. The lead character portrayed by Carrie in both “The Good Wife” and “The Good Fight” – who is known for her quirky, optimistic, and downright funny nature – mirrors the brightness of Elsbeth’s wardrobe amidst the blue uniforms. Her exceptional comedic delivery sets her performance apart, much like a beacon in a sea of seriousness that often dominates this genre.

Beyond their wit, these women are sincere and empathetic. Their characters demonstrate a profound concern for their cases and colleagues, without ever appearing insincere. They skillfully balance humor with gravity, knowing precisely when to lighten the mood and when to be earnest.

Engaging with shows that allow me to appreciate both their humor and the depth of their narratives keeps me captivated, as I find myself not only sharing their jokes but also becoming emotionally involved in their storylines and investigations.

Elsbeth And Morgan Are Both Three-Dimensional, Confident And Hyper Intelligent Characters Who Don’t Take Themselves Too Seriously

In most network murder mysteries, you’ll find characters that are strong, independent, and intelligent. However, Elsbeth and Morgan stand out because they don’t let their heads swell with self-importance. Despite not being the most seasoned in the room, they often prove to be the sharpest minds. Their confidence is evident, but they also have moments where they show vulnerability, making them endearing characters that I can’t help but cheer for in shows like Elsbeth and High Potential.

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In the character of High Potential, Morgan is well aware that her IQ outshines others. Olson’s portrayal of this, particularly when he playfully mocks Karadec, is quite amusing. Conversely, she takes her responsibilities as a mother and guardian extremely seriously. The blend of these traits results in a multi-layered character who strives hard, yet remains entertaining to observe.

On the fictional character Elsbeth, Preston’s unique approach to crime-solving is proving hard to resist, suggesting she finds joy in her work, which in turn makes it enjoyable for me as well. Furthermore, we are gradually uncovering more details about her personal life, particularly with her son now involved, providing insights into why she relocated from Chicago to New York. This additional depth adds a touch of drama and makes the mystery both clever, entertaining, and completely unique – I can’t seem to get enough!

Watching these women skillfully manage their lives, showcasing their self-assurance and wisdom, creates captivating series that I find incredibly hard to look away from.

Previously, I’ve found it challenging to engage with network murder mysteries as I didn’t develop a strong connection with the characters and their heavy tones often felt burdensome. Yet, both Elsbeth and High Potential skillfully avoid these issues while still maintaining the classic structure of their shows that I enjoy so much!

To join this ongoing procedural series, you can watch fresh episodes of “High Potential” every Tuesday at 9 p.m. Eastern Time on ABC, or stream the entire series if you have a Hulu subscription. On the other hand, the popular show “Elsbeth” will be back on Thursday, January 30th at 10 p.m. Eastern Time on CBS. If you have a Paramount+ subscription, you’ll be able to stream it as well.

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2025-01-13 17:37