A Truly Entertaining and Near-Perfect Crime Drama
“We’re not gonna give you the Oscar, no matter how hard you try,” says Rust (Matthew McConaughey) in an interrogation at the beginning of the fourth episode. Well, if they gave Oscars to TV shows, Pizzolatto and Fukunaga’s True Detective would be my first pick. True Detective has to be one of the most engaging and entertaining shows I’ve ever seen. It is crime drama brought to perfection.
The story delves into the lives of two detectives, Rustin “Rust” Cohle and Martin “Marty” Hart (Woody Harrelson), from the Louisiana State Police. They find themselves entangled in a series of gruesome homicide cases that extend beyond the surface, while uncovering their own personal struggles.
It’s very clear that the story was well-thought out prior to filming; Even if there were imperfections, they eluded my notice in the face of the narrative’s intrigue. The strength of the storytelling was remarkable; every word in the script served a purpose. Characterization was skillfully employed, forging a connection with the characters. The narrative featured deep, thought-provoking thematic undertones and motifs throughout. The dialogues, infused with introspection and philosophy, not only prompted me to question my own beliefs but also deepened the bond I shared with the characters. Despite the challenge posed by the non-linear narrative, it enhanced my viewing experience, immersing me further in the story and maintaining a seamless flow throughout.
The standout aspect of this drama lies in the performances, particularly those of Woody Harrelson and Matthew McConaughey, whose chemistry is indescribably compelling. They not only flawlessly embodied the roles of seasoned cops from the South, but their synergy made it seem as though they had been partners for years. Their acting was exceptionally authentic, immersing me completely in the narrative. Yet, it wasn’t solely their brilliance; the entire cast, spanning from the children to the background characters with just a line, delivered their roles convincingly. I believe that, beyond the source material and the director’s vision, it is the casting that makes or breaks a movie or show. Given Harrelson’s successful stint in the Hunger Games series and McConaughey’s triumph in Interstellar around the same time as True Detective’s release, I don’t think anybody else possessed the screen presence they had to take on the lead roles.
Though cinematography is usually an aspect I don’t immediately focus on, treating it more as an afterthought, the camera work in True Detective demanded attention. The precision in every shot was impossible to overlook, presenting the show as a brilliantly captured masterpiece. Each frame and angle seemed to encapsulate the essence of the moment perfectly. The meticulous color grading and thoughtful sound design not only enhanced the visual experience but also played a pivotal role in establishing the mood and tone of the show.
As I wrapped up binge-watching the entire series, the realization hit me—I couldn’t believe I had already reached the end. Time had slipped away in the blink of an eye. True Detective not only fueled my intrigue for crime dramas but also highlighted the incredible storytelling achievable in just eight episodes. Despite its brevity, True Detective stands tall as a near-flawless show, etching itself into my memory and securing the top spot on my current list of TV recommendations.
While there may not be Oscars for TV shows, True Detective has won a Prime Time Emmy and a BAFTA award, among others. And unsurprisingly so.
