The CBS series The Good Wife introduces an underrepresented perspective to the legal drama landscape. The show centers around Alicia Florrick (Julianna Margulies), the wife of a disgraced politician who reenters the legal field after setting her career aside for her family.
The pilot opens with Alicia and Peter Florrick facing a press conference, where State’s Attorney Peter (Chris Noth) admits to a sexual scandal. Six months later, Alicia is hired as a junior associate at a law firm to support her family in the wake of her husband’s arrest, where she is ironically placed on a case representing a woman accused of murdering her ex-husband. The show follows Alicia as she balances raising her children and handling her freshly incarcerated husband, all while being the new hire at a large Chicago law firm.
Captivating performances in the pilot elevate an unremarkable professional setting to a compelling level. Julianna Margulies convincingly portrays a lawyer rediscovering her aptitude after a long hiatus, effortlessly communicating vulnerability and in the next breath exuding confidence. Christine Baranski displays sharp wit as a leader of the firm, undoubtedly delighting those familiar with her work. Chris Noth is frustratingly likable in his portrayal of Peter Florrick as he treads the ethical line; his role as the former State’s Attorney promises to be an intriguing aspect of the series.
Viewers should note that the pilot supposes that Alicia’s marriage is a significant component of this series, as is clearly implied by the title. Upon entering the firm, Alicia is quickly pelted with judgments from her peers–attorneys and judges alike–regarding her husband’s actions. Those looking for a full 45 minutes in the courtroom may find their legal appetite better satisfied elsewhere.
A true highlight of The Good Wife lies in its bold representation of the American political and legal climate. Immediately, viewers may be reminded of the Clintons, who experienced a similar scandal to the one faced by The Good Wife’s central characters. It’s no coincidence that a name partner of Alicia Florrick’s firm, Diane Lockhart (Baranski), displays a framed photo of her and Hillary Clinton in a meeting, cheekily referencing it as motivation for Alicia in a meeting between the two of them.
While the outcome of the pilot’s case likely won’t shock viewers, particularly crime genre enthusiasts, courtroom proceedings are detailed in their depiction of legal strategy. The Good Wife succeeds in not overwhelming viewers with fluffy distractions while not taking itself too seriously. Subtle interactions between lawyers are captured, and the judge’s distinct personality clearly influences the trial’s course. Alicia’s experience in the trial is nuanced by her freshness in the field; she points out before entering the courtroom for the first time that she hadn’t been in one in 13 years. Despite starting with a significant revelation, the primary focus of the pilot is the legal case at hand. For viewers looking for a compelling blend of personal character study and sharp, intelligent courtroom drama, The Good Wife is certainly worth a watch.
