by Mike Hilty, Contributing Writer
In the past, movies were seen as a better gig than TV for performers. Now, as the line between TV and movies continues to blur, we see traditional movie stars coming to TV. Limited series offer the chance for actors to stretch out their performances over eight hours, versus the two that a film provides. Stars like Julia Roberts, Matthew McConaughey, Jodie Foster, and Michael Keaton have all made limited series over the last few years, and now, Jake Gyllenhaal has joined the mix.
Presumed Innocent is about Chicago prosecutor, Rusty Sabich (Gyllenhaal), who is accused of murdering one of his coworkers, Carolyn Polhemus (Renate Reinsve). As the investigation and trial consume Rusty’s life, his wife and children are caught in the middle, while he slowly unravels emotionally and mentally.
Gyllenhaal is an outstanding performer who gives it his all. Rusty is a complicated character, and we don’t get a good sense of his guilt or innocence throughout the show. It’s a testament to Gyllenhaal and his performance that you can be empathetic about his situation and hate his guts at the same time. Rusty is flawed because he is obsessed with Carolyn. It feels like he could have done it.
Rusty’s wife, Barbara (Ruth Negga), is perhaps the most fascinating character of the entire series. She is in the challenging situation of a “stand by your man” mentality, while dealing with her own trauma. Rusty’s encounters with Carolyn cause significant strife in their family, and the trial is another layer to their already damaged relationship. Negga is fantastic in this series. She brings a more grounded approach to this role, whereas Rusty is more boisterous. I certainly hope that, at this time next year, she’ll be considered for Emmy’s consideration.
The primary storyline is the investigation; however, the trial is the best part of the series. While Rusty, an attorney himself, accepts counsel from his friend and former District Attorney, Raymond (Bill Camp), he continues to investigate the murder like he’s trying to prosecute the case. Instead, he’s trying to save himself. Tommy Molto (Peter Sarsgaard) takes the lead, along with newly elected District Attorney, Nico Della Guardia (O-T Fagbenle), for the prosecution. Presiding over the case is Judge Lyttle (Noma Dumezweni), who gives the defense plenty of opportunities to help themselves when everything feels dire. Everything from the trial feels tense, from the opening arguments, to the witness testimony, to the verdict.
Tommy is the wild card for this case. He has a vendetta against Rusty due to his relationship with Carolyn. Tommy isn’t very well-liked by his coworkers either. He thinks he has something to prove by being the lead in this case. Yet you notice something incredibly off about him. At times, you think he could be a suspect, and at others, you think he’s the world’s most superb lawyer. His opening argument is incredible, and he builds a strong case. I’ve always thought Sarsgaard was a fantastic performer; this is one of his strongest performances in the last few years, which is saying a lot since he’s been doing some of his best work lately.
In addition to the trial, one of the best parts of Presumed Innocent is the feeling of pressure and tension throughout the entire series. There is a persistent, dreadful tone, and Rusty’s short temper elevates everything. Two scenes in particular had me on the edge of my seat. The first involves an incident when Rusty is confronted by someone he’s investigating. The individual comes to the house, pounding on the door, and Rusty pleads with his family to calm down. Secondly, most witness testimony during the trial produce incredible tension.
I am conflicted about the ending. When the trial’s verdict is shocking. However, after thinking about the evidence and how the case unfolds, the jury’s conclusion makes sense. Where I was conflicted, though, is when Carolyn’s true fate is revealed. It’s a little unrealistic, and too much of a stretch. Regardless, it’s a devastating ending. Carolyn didn’t deserve what happened to her, and the series does a phenomenal job of showing us why.
Presumed Innocent is one of Apple TV+’s best shows of the year. Gyllenhaal anchors it, but Negga and Sarsgaard steal the show. The trial provides some of the best courtroom scenes you’ll see on television. It’s an engaging mystery and a top-notch thriller.
Rating: High side of Liked It
Presumed Innocent is currently streaming on Apple TV+
You can read more from Mike Hilty and follow him on Instagram, Letterboxd, and Serializd