There are few things worse for a TV fan than wasted potential. Some shows could be great, but they just need some work. Here are three shows that need help, and some suggestions that might save them.
Harry’s Law
“Harry’s Law” is one of the more innovative offerings from the major networks in recent times. Being a series from David E. Kelley, this has the potential to be a highly successful and unique series, however, it could have some trouble building an audience in the early stages much like Kelley’s previous efforts like “Boston Public” and “The Practice.” The biggest problem for “Harry’s Law” is the under-development of the title character. Kathy Bates is an excellent actress who could be utilized so much better. Often times the side characters are more interesting to watch, so if the producers can work on fleshing out the “Harry” character, this could be a truly great ensemble show.
The Cape
This show may just be another example of rushing a product to the finish line at the expense of quality. The plot has the potential to build a great superhero mythology, but falls short due to issues with the writing and direction. The show suffers from a lack of character depth and an inconsistency of theme. Essentially, this series needs to decide if it wants to be a silly light-hearted fantasy where the characters have no emotional link to the audience, or a serious character-driven drama. The producers appear to be walking a line that only uses half of the show’s potential. It may be too late for this one, but if it can be saved, “The Cape” needs a complete overhaul.
$#*! My Dad Says
Probably the most disappointing series to come along in quite a while, the story line could be sitcom gold, and William Shatner can make just about anything great. The fact is that I would watch William Shatner read the paper for an hour, but I can’t sit through his latest foray into network TV. With plunging ratings, the show is on its last shaky leg at this point, but if it could be redeemed, two things would need to happen. (1) Kill the laugh track. (2) Give it some teeth. The laugh track at the end of every bad joke just accentuates how bad the show is, and the truly sad thing is CBS’s misuse and figurative neutering of Shatner’s character. We should have an “Archie Bunker” but instead we get more of a “Danny Tanner” feel because CBS doesn’t want to offend anyone. Ideally the show would move to FX and use its full potential without being inhibited by an out of touch network.
Sources:
Personal opinion and experience as a TV fan
David E. Kelly Shows
Harry’s Law
The Cape
$#*! My Dad Says
