The TV Chick

For five young and bright new law associates, being accepted into one of Los Angeles’ most prestigious law firms is their first step on the road to success. However, they soon come to realize that the Sterling law firm is a lot more than they bargained for. The law firm is harsh, non-traditional and constantly trying to find a reason to fire them.

The associates are thrown right into cases that challenge their morals and ethics. Dylan (Matt Long, “Jack and Bobby”) is faced with a practically un-winnable custody case, Beth (Leah Pipes) has to choose whether to keep silent when a 90 year old signs an agreement thinking she’s his daughter, Liam (Ben Lawson) has to get a client to sign with the firm under not-so-ethical conditions, Addy (Tina Majorino, “Big Love” and “Veronica Mars” — absolutely adore her) has to stand up to her overbearing bosses, and Malcolm (Mehcad Brooks, “True Blood”) is put in the middle of a battle of the bosses after being hired outside of the traditional process. The associates also have to face fighting partners, other partners who are married to each other, the pressures, the hours, and the competition.

I have to admit, I mainly watched this pilot because I will watch anything that has Veronica Mars cast members in it. Tina Majorino was amazing on that show, and she is great here too. I think the role of Addy is particularly fitting for her. It is a vulnerable character with insecurities, but also someone who is smart, competent and strong. I found myself really enjoying this show. However, I am hoping that the setting of a law firm doesn’t limit the show to plot lines just about cases. I think The Good Wife does a great job with depth of character within the law office setting, so it definitely can be done. The male associates on The Deep End are certainly nice to look at, and the show has its quirky and funny moments in addition to serious ones. I’m curious to see how the partner war plays out and if any relationships develop between the five of them. There were hints in the premiere, but I don’t want to spoil too much.

So if you are looking for a show that is entertaining with some great actors, this show is for you. I really hope it has longevity. From what I’ve seen in general, ABC (minus Eastwick, we shall not discuss that), has been kind to its new shows so I hope this one sticks around. It’s not a typical procedural. It focuses more on the lawyers instead of the law and court cases. I am interested to see more! The show also stars Norbert Leo Butz as Rowdy Kaiser, and Nicole Ari Parker as Susan Oppenheim.

The Deep End premieres tomorrow night, January 21st at 8 pm on ABC.