As we were watching, (and getting totally hooked!) my husband and I said that this was the "House" of the line of cop shows. His personality is sarcastic and witty, in a very intelligent and sexy kinda way! He is captivating, and his zen-like qualities are refreshing in a world of fast-paced criminal action. This (cop show) is not like any other- it has a uniqueness to it that is appealing and addicting. It is more than crime scenes and investigations. This is good. How is the Lt connected? And his partner-she has intriguing secrets to her personality too. I want to know about her story as well. The whole show- I was thinking, "ooh, what does that mean? Ooh, how is that connected?" It was humorous and intense. I can't wait till next week to get deeper into the story, I could have kept watching and watching. I like the "interviews" with the people that are involved with his personal case, it lets you, as the viewer, try to draw conclusions about his personal case. This show has a scandalous mystery and I can't wait to get more clues to the truth. Hopefully they don't pull the plug on this one, definitely a keeper in our wed night agenda. It seems like they always do that to the good ones. Keep your fingers crossed!
103 Reviews
This was such a great show!
Rob133129 September 2022
Life is show that is so much better than it has any business of being. That's mostly due to the terrific cast who you can tell are all having fun making this show. Life really was such an underrated show. It was a shame that NBC barely advertised it while it was on. Damian Lewis and Sarah Shahi are both terrific actors and both are at their best in this one. I know that there are a million different cop shows out there to choose from but this one was such an original, it's a shame it only lasted 2 seasons but those 2 seasons were great. It was one of the most clever, intelligent and fun shows while it was on. It's one of those rare shows where once you start watching it's hard to stop!
Character Driven Cop Drama, Great Concept
missmissa27 September 2007
Warning: Spoilers
I've heard a lot of hype the last couple of weeks about Life's Charlie Crews is like Gregory House. Well, while the characters are equally as interesting (and both played by English actors), they are nothing alike.
The set up is this; Charlie Crews was a cop on the beat who went to maximum security prison on a life sentence for twelve years. After twelve years he was proved innocent and, when he gets out he goes back to the force. Things have changed for Charlie though; he's divorced, his mother is dead, his dad is remarrying, and he's loaded. His settlement for the false imprisonment has made him rich, famous and a detective. Everyone thinks he's just in the position because of the settlement, but the truth is, he's actually pretty good, which we find out in the first five minutes.
Crews is even more interesting because he's spent the last twelve years in prison reading "The Path to Zen" and instead of raising his voice when he's angry, like normal people, he spouts off about how the universe is making fun of us. And Crews, unlike House, has a bona fide soft side. (Spoiler) After he fatally wounds a crack head, he tells him, "It's okay, it was just a bad dream. Go back to sleep," as the man dies in his arms, which was a slow and truly touching moment that was actually, you know, sweet for a network television pilot. Damian Lewis plays Crews with such subtlety and sincerity, that the character is completely believable.
Also, unlike "House", Life has a whole cast of complicated and interesting characters. Sarah Shahi's Dani Reese is Crews' partner and a recovered drug addict. She's under pressure from the department both to prove that she's fit for duty and to find a way to get rid of Crews. It's a difficult line to walk for her because, like I said, Crews is good at his job, and Reese respects that.
Reese is also smart. She doesn't believe Crews is Zen enough to have completely let go of his own case, which, as we discover at the very end of the show (Spoiler) he has not. He's devoted a whole room in his ridiculously large house to laying out the case. We see that his old partner and current boss, the person putting pressure on Reese, were involved in setting Crews up, if not the original murder all together. Crews' case is going to be an ongoing plot line, probably throughout the entire series, and it's something I'm looking forward to seeing fleshed out.
My favorite supporting character thus far has got to be Adam Arkin's Ted Early, who was in prison with Crews for insider trading. Now that they're both out and Crews is loaded, Early is his financial adviser and lives above Crews' garage.
The show also makes fun references to how much technology has changed in such a short time span. Crews, having been in prison for twelve years, has no clue that there are such things as camera phones and instant messages. It's interesting to have a character who is very smart, but a little hapless in the modern era.
I'm very interested in both the ongoing story of the series and in the interactions Reese and Crews will have in the future with each other and with the rest of the force. It's a great show, so tune in and watch and keep great TV on the air.
The set up is this; Charlie Crews was a cop on the beat who went to maximum security prison on a life sentence for twelve years. After twelve years he was proved innocent and, when he gets out he goes back to the force. Things have changed for Charlie though; he's divorced, his mother is dead, his dad is remarrying, and he's loaded. His settlement for the false imprisonment has made him rich, famous and a detective. Everyone thinks he's just in the position because of the settlement, but the truth is, he's actually pretty good, which we find out in the first five minutes.
Crews is even more interesting because he's spent the last twelve years in prison reading "The Path to Zen" and instead of raising his voice when he's angry, like normal people, he spouts off about how the universe is making fun of us. And Crews, unlike House, has a bona fide soft side. (Spoiler) After he fatally wounds a crack head, he tells him, "It's okay, it was just a bad dream. Go back to sleep," as the man dies in his arms, which was a slow and truly touching moment that was actually, you know, sweet for a network television pilot. Damian Lewis plays Crews with such subtlety and sincerity, that the character is completely believable.
Also, unlike "House", Life has a whole cast of complicated and interesting characters. Sarah Shahi's Dani Reese is Crews' partner and a recovered drug addict. She's under pressure from the department both to prove that she's fit for duty and to find a way to get rid of Crews. It's a difficult line to walk for her because, like I said, Crews is good at his job, and Reese respects that.
Reese is also smart. She doesn't believe Crews is Zen enough to have completely let go of his own case, which, as we discover at the very end of the show (Spoiler) he has not. He's devoted a whole room in his ridiculously large house to laying out the case. We see that his old partner and current boss, the person putting pressure on Reese, were involved in setting Crews up, if not the original murder all together. Crews' case is going to be an ongoing plot line, probably throughout the entire series, and it's something I'm looking forward to seeing fleshed out.
My favorite supporting character thus far has got to be Adam Arkin's Ted Early, who was in prison with Crews for insider trading. Now that they're both out and Crews is loaded, Early is his financial adviser and lives above Crews' garage.
The show also makes fun references to how much technology has changed in such a short time span. Crews, having been in prison for twelve years, has no clue that there are such things as camera phones and instant messages. It's interesting to have a character who is very smart, but a little hapless in the modern era.
I'm very interested in both the ongoing story of the series and in the interactions Reese and Crews will have in the future with each other and with the rest of the force. It's a great show, so tune in and watch and keep great TV on the air.
New show worth watching
imdb-1796111 October 2007
Warning: Spoilers
NBC did a horrible job advertising this new show and I almost didn't watch the first episode because it didn't look like it was worth watching, I glad I did. The writers thew in a great combination of humor and suspense. How often do you see a chase seen end with a cop and suspect duking it out in a knife fight? Unlike other police shows, this show you really don't know if the victim will actually turn out to be the criminal - in the last episode I watched I found myself going back and forth believing victim, no, criminal, no, victim, no, criminal......
I should point out that this show may not seem to be so great at first but once you've gotten to know the characters you'll find yourself waiting anxiously for the next episode. This is a show you grow into.
I should point out that this show may not seem to be so great at first but once you've gotten to know the characters you'll find yourself waiting anxiously for the next episode. This is a show you grow into.
I Love It!
sanja-1122 October 2007
Main character is great, I love the guy! His zen-philosophy is understandable to everyone, zen-or-not, even like some usual wisdom; and his not-so-zen seek for revenge is so Western... This is just the thing that crime series needed: fresh new character, interesting and funny. I also like his partner (she's beautiful, reminds me of Jo in Eureka), but I hope she will develop in a more interesting way soon - not just because of her past and drug abuse, but also like a character itself, with characteristic language and everything that a full character needs. Story is very promising, it could lead to many different ways; also the crimes that Charlie and Reese have to work on are interesting. Life is great, I hope it will continue for many seasons.
12 years in prison for a crime you didn't commit...what does that do to a man?
MovieChickie15 September 2007
Charlie Crews is a former cop turned inmate who has just gotten out of jail after 12 years for a crime he didn't commit. He becomes a detective again upon his release as part of a settlement with the city. I just watched the pilot, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's not some dumb action piece with big car chases and naked women. It also has a great relationship between the two lead characters, a man and a woman. They're detective partners, but there isn't any forced chemistry tacked on. You know, the whole they hate each other, but you can't deny the attraction...uggh. This avoids that perfectly. It also has some great actors, Damian Lewis is always great, since "Band of Brothers" he's displayed a remarkable talent for character roles. And this is most certainly a character drama. But unlike Shark or Monk or something where the character is the whole plot, there's also a great deal of other fantastic elements. The man was in jail from 1995-2007, so there's cute scenes about a sort of culture shock, mostly pertaining to technological advances. But there's also a darker side, as Crews was brutalized in prison (as a former cop) and has a vendetta against those who conspired to put him in jail. This is the overarching arc of the series, but smaller cases worked with his partner form the bulk of the story lines. I was really impressed and look forward to further episodes. I just hope that NBC manages to get this show enough ratings to keep it on the air. Kudos on a job well done. J.
Old School Meets New School
SaintRobbie10 November 2007
Life is one of the best shows on television because it revives the old Detective shows where there was no "CSI" made-up procedures to catch people. Instead, it is straight detective work that keeps you on edge.
This show is great because it doesn't have the flashy-ness or unbelievable murders/events as Police shows on TV now. It could be about murders for the simplest and believable reasons. Jealous spouses, simple rapes and other, everyday events. The shows characters are down-to-earth and cast perfectly with the recovering-addict Detective and Damian Lewis' enthralling "Zen-Like" Detectiveness. The way the writers have him interviewing and connecting with people is unlike any other police show or movie I have ever seen.
To make things better, is the side story of how Damian Lewis is spending his money from his settlement. What at first seems like a series like "Bad Boys" is quickly proved incorrect with the lines "I am not attached to this car..." and you can see that he is.
But the best, very best part of this show is how Dt Crews is investigating his own case to find out who framed him during a triple homicide. Again, using basic, detective work.
I was starting to find CSI-style shows becoming boring, and lacking in depth and was excited to finally find a show that uses its characters to bring it to life, not scantly-clothed girls with almost no acting skill.
So if you want a believable show, with great characters and a great story line every week, watch Life and you'll become attached to the show!
This show is great because it doesn't have the flashy-ness or unbelievable murders/events as Police shows on TV now. It could be about murders for the simplest and believable reasons. Jealous spouses, simple rapes and other, everyday events. The shows characters are down-to-earth and cast perfectly with the recovering-addict Detective and Damian Lewis' enthralling "Zen-Like" Detectiveness. The way the writers have him interviewing and connecting with people is unlike any other police show or movie I have ever seen.
To make things better, is the side story of how Damian Lewis is spending his money from his settlement. What at first seems like a series like "Bad Boys" is quickly proved incorrect with the lines "I am not attached to this car..." and you can see that he is.
But the best, very best part of this show is how Dt Crews is investigating his own case to find out who framed him during a triple homicide. Again, using basic, detective work.
I was starting to find CSI-style shows becoming boring, and lacking in depth and was excited to finally find a show that uses its characters to bring it to life, not scantly-clothed girls with almost no acting skill.
So if you want a believable show, with great characters and a great story line every week, watch Life and you'll become attached to the show!
another home-run by Damian Lewis!
mcmaster197326 September 2007
Being the 'Band of Brothers' groupie that I am, I thought I would give my man Damian Lewis a chance to interest me yet again. I was pleasantly surprised by the "Life" pilot! I have always considered Damian a brilliant actor, and this role seems to fit him well. He plays those parts that make you ask"what exactly is going on in this man's head" very well. The "Life" plot is quirky and original (yes, imagine that - originality!), and promises to keep me eagerly anticipating subsequent episodes. I noticed that Robin Weigert (Calamity Jane from HBO's Deadwood) plays a recurring role - another excellent actress. Keep your eye on this one! I certainly will!
Great show, great acting
karen-cooper-14 November 2007
Excellent plots, if you have missed it, catch up by watching the full episodes on line on NBC. This program deserves a strong following of viewers. Great character development and moments of humor and insights on humanity interspersed with drama, suspense and darkness. The program mixes single stories each week with on going meta stories about each of the characters pasts-especially the story of the main character Charlie Crews who was framed for a mass murder and spent twelve years in prison before he was exonerated. We learn a little more about the past stories each week as the crime of that episode is investigated and solved. Complex and captivating show.
Dark mystery/cop drama,set in the sunshine of L.A.
KUAlum261 December 2007
Detective Charles "Charlie" Crews(Damien Lewis,in competition with Hugh Laurie for most convincing TV American as done by a Brit)has returned to the Los Angeles Police force. His return is from a twelve year hiatus,brought about by a life sentence(hence the title)for his(wrongful)implication in a multiple homicide. Of course,once vindicated of said crime,Charlie sets about finding out how he was framed,who did it,and who--if anybody--should he trust around him,in the force and elsewheres. He's conducting a lonely search,as he tries to put on the guise of resuming life as normal,back on duty investigating cases alongside a partner(Sarah Shahi)who is as damaged as they come,and VERY suspicious of her partner's ways,among other things.
While the plausibility of some of the show's situations(examples:Crews is the beneficiary of a $50 MIllion settlement with the force,yet somehow shows little sign of having any money,save occasionally cruising around in a different souped-up auto each show;how the force would be penalized or settle with giving up a sum of money THAT steep without appeal;the willfulness of the force to let Crews back on to active duty)seems a shade hard to swallow,this show's edgy,nervous and reflective mood--mostly spurred on by the inspired performance of Lewis--helps the medicine go down a lot easier. Arguably one of the more inspired shows on the new fall season(along with "Pushing Daisies","Chuck" and "Aliens in America"),here's hoping that this show doesn't fall under the wheels of the current writer's strike. THe fertility of the story-lines and richness of characters here merits this show of a longer run.
While the plausibility of some of the show's situations(examples:Crews is the beneficiary of a $50 MIllion settlement with the force,yet somehow shows little sign of having any money,save occasionally cruising around in a different souped-up auto each show;how the force would be penalized or settle with giving up a sum of money THAT steep without appeal;the willfulness of the force to let Crews back on to active duty)seems a shade hard to swallow,this show's edgy,nervous and reflective mood--mostly spurred on by the inspired performance of Lewis--helps the medicine go down a lot easier. Arguably one of the more inspired shows on the new fall season(along with "Pushing Daisies","Chuck" and "Aliens in America"),here's hoping that this show doesn't fall under the wheels of the current writer's strike. THe fertility of the story-lines and richness of characters here merits this show of a longer run.
Outstanding & innovative
keywestbeaner3921 November 2007
The premise is new (how rare that is) and innovative. The main guys, Damian Lewis and Adam Arkin are clever and highly intelligent. This is super refreshing since most shows are predicated on 5th grade vocabulary and intelligence.
Damian's reasonable obsession with whoever framed him and their reason(s) for doing so is an interesting undercurrent to each show's primary theme. Adam's past shenanigans with his fiduciary duty, and his odd little quirks, add to the interest and are totally believable.
All in all this "Life" is a unique item which is an ORIGINAL idea and obviously writers good enough to stay with that. Big kudos to whoever thought this up and had the guts to follow through.
Damian's reasonable obsession with whoever framed him and their reason(s) for doing so is an interesting undercurrent to each show's primary theme. Adam's past shenanigans with his fiduciary duty, and his odd little quirks, add to the interest and are totally believable.
All in all this "Life" is a unique item which is an ORIGINAL idea and obviously writers good enough to stay with that. Big kudos to whoever thought this up and had the guts to follow through.
Best New Show this Fall!!!!
sandymorgan724 October 2007
Funny, heartwarming, wonderfully acted, great mysteries....this is the best new show this fall!!! I agree that Bionic was a total let-down....but NBC has a hit in Life.
I love the fact that their is a bigger mystery that we get a little clue to each week. In addition, the cases they work on each week are fun and interesting. Lewis is awesome as this guy and it's great to see him play such a fun character! Also, his "partner" has her own story that has caught my attention. This is a great show...check it out if you haven't already.
NBC>>>>>THIS IS A KEEPER!!!!
I love the fact that their is a bigger mystery that we get a little clue to each week. In addition, the cases they work on each week are fun and interesting. Lewis is awesome as this guy and it's great to see him play such a fun character! Also, his "partner" has her own story that has caught my attention. This is a great show...check it out if you haven't already.
NBC>>>>>THIS IS A KEEPER!!!!
Stop watching after Season 1
jaubert-4368826 March 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Season 1: Excellent crime show with a creative premise and a clear main conflict, and great, fleshed-out characters with motivations and intriguing flaws. Season 2: After a few amazing episodes, everyone suddenly becomes one-dimensional. What went wrong? Everything. Even the sets and crimes seem empty. And everybody with a 21st century mind, do yourself a favor and stop watching when Captain Kevin Tidwell gets introduced, or you'll need a huge barf bag. He's the ultimate sleazebag, all of his lines are gross, he has no redeeming qualities, and he doesn't know what personal space is. And get this: his only goal in life is to sleep with Dani Reese. Really? Yes. Imagine you get a new boss, he's greasy-looking and faintly reminds you of a young Harvey Weinstein. He has had multiple wives in the past with nothing good to say about him AND he likes mentioning that all the time. His first introduction to you is him verbally harassing you by saying he wants to sleep with you with a classic Freudian slip. Adorable right? NO. And when you try to greet him with a handshake, he tries to HUG you. Wow, that's a lawsuit waiting to happen. "Jesus Christ, where's human resources? Where did my old boss go?" you would say. That's the wonderful character of Captain Kevin Tidwell. Wow, why didn't Dani Reese get the hell outta there? Oh Lord! Oh snap, she ends up with him!? F-
Great concept, great cast, great creativity, but often hokey in the execution
SeriousJest25 September 2012
This show's concept was brilliant. The cast was mostly awesome (especially Lewis, with outstanding supporting performances by Garret Dillahunt and Gabrielle Union). After the first episode, I thought for sure that this would be a 5-mug show. Unfortunately, over its 2 seasons, it turned out to be a mix of great creativity without the attention to detail and follow-through necessary to bring it to its full potential. The overall story lines and individual-episode plots were interesting, unique, and entertaining, and the dialogue was even pretty witty. I even liked the Buddhist voice-overs with lessons relevant to each episode. However, too many scenes seemed hokey and/or contrived. It felt like a bunch of effort and intelligence was spent on thinking up concepts for intriguing and entertaining characters and stories, but little effort was spent on fitting that creativity into a believable story. If your show is about police and murders, you should probably research some of that subject. For example, somebody needed to tell the directors and writers that it is not always appropriate for a policeman to draw his weapon in every circumstance. Although this series did not live up to its full potential, it was entertaining, and I did not feel that my time was wasted watching it.
What a shame.
ZigZagHelios4 August 2018
Good show that was canceled too early
anselmdaniel28 December 2022
Warning: Spoilers
This review contains spoilers.
Life is a serial detective television show that premiered on NBC in 2007. The show stars Damien Lewis as Charlie Crews and Sarah Shahi as Dani Reese. These two characters are partners as they work the homicide cases in the Los Angeles Police Department. The television series features a case of the week model with a story arc in the background that has Charlie Crews finding out who framed hom.
Life is a good show. The television series makes the philosophy of Zen brief. Charlie Crews was locked up in prison for more than a decade. This resulted in him losing his mind as he maintained his innocence. This Zen aspect leads to interesting interactions between Charlie and his partner Dani Reese. This Zen aspect is much more surface-level that shows Charlie Crews' peacefulness as he searches for the truth.
The show's main flaw also comes with its early cancellation. The early cancellation meant the show would end in the second season. The television show sets up this grand conspiracy but does not completely follow through gracefully. The show had good pacing in the first season with Charlie Crews finding the real killer in a friend's family. The second season has the investigation following up into Jack Reesebut this is dropped in favor of Mickey Rayborn being the primary benefactor of the conspiracy. This is rushed but the show does an admirable job in resolving the mystery of why Charlie Crews was set up.
I would recommend Life, the television show that premiered on NBC.
Grade: B.
Life is a serial detective television show that premiered on NBC in 2007. The show stars Damien Lewis as Charlie Crews and Sarah Shahi as Dani Reese. These two characters are partners as they work the homicide cases in the Los Angeles Police Department. The television series features a case of the week model with a story arc in the background that has Charlie Crews finding out who framed hom.
Life is a good show. The television series makes the philosophy of Zen brief. Charlie Crews was locked up in prison for more than a decade. This resulted in him losing his mind as he maintained his innocence. This Zen aspect leads to interesting interactions between Charlie and his partner Dani Reese. This Zen aspect is much more surface-level that shows Charlie Crews' peacefulness as he searches for the truth.
The show's main flaw also comes with its early cancellation. The early cancellation meant the show would end in the second season. The television show sets up this grand conspiracy but does not completely follow through gracefully. The show had good pacing in the first season with Charlie Crews finding the real killer in a friend's family. The second season has the investigation following up into Jack Reesebut this is dropped in favor of Mickey Rayborn being the primary benefactor of the conspiracy. This is rushed but the show does an admirable job in resolving the mystery of why Charlie Crews was set up.
I would recommend Life, the television show that premiered on NBC.
Grade: B.
Such an underrated show!
Supermanfan-1310 August 2021
Life was such an underrated show. It was a shame that NBC barely advertised it while it was on. Damian Lewis and Sarah Shahi are both terrific actors and both are at their best in this one. I know that there are a million different cop shows out there to choose from but this one was such an original, it's a shame it only lasted 2 seasons but those 2 seasons were great. It's one of those rare shows where once you start watching it's hard to stop!
Quirky and fun
rack_focus27 September 2007
Warning: Spoilers
Quirky leads have been very big lately. In the aftermath of the success of Gil Grissom, Monk, and House, quirky leads are seen as a guaranteed hit. We love when the lead is sarcastic, or does odd things that turn out to be completely logical. And that is what pulled me to Charlie Crews, played by the under-rated Damian Lewis.
The writers did a great job with the pilot. It is clean, and clear what the storyline is. Charlie Crews is an ex-cop who was set to prison for murder. 12 years later, he is released, compensated, and reinstated. His wife is remarried (presumably an amicable break-up), and he still doesn't know who framed him, but he has an anally set up system to try and figure it out.
Adam Arkin is in the cast playing his friend and financial adviser. He was in the same prison as Charlie for a white-collar crime, and Charlie saved his life. Now, he lives above Charlie's garage, and sometimes destroys his car with a tractor... Adam Arkin is fantastic.
Sarah Shahi plays Charlie's new partner, Dani Reese. The two actors have great chemistry and it shows on-screen. She is the typical straight laced cop, whereas he is the goofy, brooding, Sherlock. She's also got her own demons. It is clear that she has made a mistake that got her the "honor" of getting Charlie as a partner, and she is seen having a one night stand.
The storyline is clean, and not just focused on Charlie. The writers manage to do a good job juggling his character storyline, and the story of a murdered little boy. Good luck, "Life". I'll be watching.
And if you like Damian Lewis, check him out in Colditz. Excellent movie.
The writers did a great job with the pilot. It is clean, and clear what the storyline is. Charlie Crews is an ex-cop who was set to prison for murder. 12 years later, he is released, compensated, and reinstated. His wife is remarried (presumably an amicable break-up), and he still doesn't know who framed him, but he has an anally set up system to try and figure it out.
Adam Arkin is in the cast playing his friend and financial adviser. He was in the same prison as Charlie for a white-collar crime, and Charlie saved his life. Now, he lives above Charlie's garage, and sometimes destroys his car with a tractor... Adam Arkin is fantastic.
Sarah Shahi plays Charlie's new partner, Dani Reese. The two actors have great chemistry and it shows on-screen. She is the typical straight laced cop, whereas he is the goofy, brooding, Sherlock. She's also got her own demons. It is clear that she has made a mistake that got her the "honor" of getting Charlie as a partner, and she is seen having a one night stand.
The storyline is clean, and not just focused on Charlie. The writers manage to do a good job juggling his character storyline, and the story of a murdered little boy. Good luck, "Life". I'll be watching.
And if you like Damian Lewis, check him out in Colditz. Excellent movie.
Great new show! Don't miss it!
tintinnabulous128 September 2007
Warning: Spoilers
I actually watched this by accident and a few minutes into it, I saw it was good enough for me to record on my DVR. I like all the actors and their story lines are intriguing. Like another fan of this show, I also like Burn Notice. "Life" mixes in moments of humor with good drama. The premise is very unusual, at least to me, and I like that past scenes are spliced in, especially the prison ones...it will be interesting to see more of how he survived 12 years of prison as a former cop. I thought the scene where the main character was helping his partner shower off the drug powder that got all over her was well done, and sexy-I wouldn't mind him lifting me into a shower!
One of the best shows ever
crogers-195 December 2007
I first saw an episode of Life when I was on vacation in Las Vegas. I was paid ten dollars to watch an episode and give my opinion of the show. After watching the episode, I felt that I should have paid them. I love this show. Charley Crews is one of the most enjoyable characters I have seen on TV in a long time. His viewpoint is new and refreshing to this jaded TV viewer. Sarah Shahi is perfect as his partner and friend. NBC has a hit on their hands. The other networks should take a page from the writers and producers of "Life" and get rid of that so called "reality" TV shows and put on shows like "Life" that keeps you caring for the characters and coming back for more.
Life. Nice characters but it could have done with better murder cases.
marloes6621 February 2012
Warning: Spoilers
I think the idea behind Life, cop convicted for murder he didn't commit becomes millionaire after getting out, is great. It's original, as far as police shows go.
Damian Lewis as Charlie was great. He did a good job, as far as I can tell. His character, Charlie, was both funny and tragic, but would you really go back to being a cop when your colleagues once betrayed you? I liked the bit about the fruit and him hating fences.
I like the short flashbacks to the main characters time in prison. I felt that was very effective.
However, I found the murder cases very uninteresting and way too simple. The first suspect they met was usually the guy who did it. It was predicable and way to easy.
If they had done a better job, made it more interesting/complicated, even if they'd just thrown a couple of red herrings in, I would've liked it a lot more.
I think they had a lot of potential, but they didn't execute it well.
Damian Lewis as Charlie was great. He did a good job, as far as I can tell. His character, Charlie, was both funny and tragic, but would you really go back to being a cop when your colleagues once betrayed you? I liked the bit about the fruit and him hating fences.
I like the short flashbacks to the main characters time in prison. I felt that was very effective.
However, I found the murder cases very uninteresting and way too simple. The first suspect they met was usually the guy who did it. It was predicable and way to easy.
If they had done a better job, made it more interesting/complicated, even if they'd just thrown a couple of red herrings in, I would've liked it a lot more.
I think they had a lot of potential, but they didn't execute it well.
Hopefully this series will have a long 'Life'
complete-unknown6527 September 2007
Warning: Spoilers
The new fall season is just starting and a dozen or more different TV shows are invading our living rooms. Naturally, there'll be a few series that will fall under the ax while there are others who will prevail and return for the next season and for seasons to come.
I'm hoping that one of those shows that survive is 'Life'. It's a fresh and vibrant take on the cop drama that has a great mix of comedy, drama, some action, a hint of sexual tension, and a great mystery. And that's only what I saw in the first episode.
Detective Charlie Crews is played in a wonderfully quirky but understated way by actor Damian Lewis. Viewers are most likely to remember him from the WWII miniseries, 'Band of Brothers', where he also shined. His Crews is truly an original character with quirks such as his love of fresh fruits and his zen-like outlook on life. Despite his zen outlook, he can't help but feel attached to his newly bought Bentley or the sexy women his money attracts. Crews is not a total oddball though. He's actually a brilliant detective since his zen outlook actually helps him in solving cases. Hopefully, if this series continues, Charlie may be able to develop into one of those great cop characters...like Andy Sipowicz or Lennie Briscoe.
The rest of the cast also does a great job in their roles. Sarah Shai plays Dani Reese with just the right balance of toughness and vulnerability. Crews' financial adviser, Ted Earley (Adam Arkin), boss, Lieutenant Karen Davis, and attorney, Constance Griffiths (Brooke Langton), provide solid if short performances. Lewis, however, is the anchor of the show and truly holds this show together. The show is also interspersed with documentary-like scenes about Charlie's time in prison, with interviews from his former partner, his ex-wife (who divorced him while he was in jail), and various others.
If there were any flaws, it would be the pacing. There were times when the show kind of slowed in its pace but otherwise it was a great show to see.
I definitely recommend you to save some time Wednesdays at 10:00 PM for a little slice of 'Life'.
I'm hoping that one of those shows that survive is 'Life'. It's a fresh and vibrant take on the cop drama that has a great mix of comedy, drama, some action, a hint of sexual tension, and a great mystery. And that's only what I saw in the first episode.
Detective Charlie Crews is played in a wonderfully quirky but understated way by actor Damian Lewis. Viewers are most likely to remember him from the WWII miniseries, 'Band of Brothers', where he also shined. His Crews is truly an original character with quirks such as his love of fresh fruits and his zen-like outlook on life. Despite his zen outlook, he can't help but feel attached to his newly bought Bentley or the sexy women his money attracts. Crews is not a total oddball though. He's actually a brilliant detective since his zen outlook actually helps him in solving cases. Hopefully, if this series continues, Charlie may be able to develop into one of those great cop characters...like Andy Sipowicz or Lennie Briscoe.
The rest of the cast also does a great job in their roles. Sarah Shai plays Dani Reese with just the right balance of toughness and vulnerability. Crews' financial adviser, Ted Earley (Adam Arkin), boss, Lieutenant Karen Davis, and attorney, Constance Griffiths (Brooke Langton), provide solid if short performances. Lewis, however, is the anchor of the show and truly holds this show together. The show is also interspersed with documentary-like scenes about Charlie's time in prison, with interviews from his former partner, his ex-wife (who divorced him while he was in jail), and various others.
If there were any flaws, it would be the pacing. There were times when the show kind of slowed in its pace but otherwise it was a great show to see.
I definitely recommend you to save some time Wednesdays at 10:00 PM for a little slice of 'Life'.
Here's hoping....
jthelin13 November 2008
Many have commented on Life with glowing reviews. While I try to catch it every week, I find it an uneven show, especially in regards to the writing and to various characters coming and going. Who is a regular, who is not? Crews' ex-wife? Reese's father? The lawyer who eventually sprung Crews? Last year's captain (Robin Weigert, underused mostly), who made an interesting appearance this year? And on and on. The show feels as tentative as NBC's scheduling and marketing of it. Let's settle down, writers and network, por favor!
I hope NBC allows this program to evolve and develop its intriguing array of characters, played well by its cast, especially the innovative Damien Lewis, who brings nuance and passion to all his roles. We also need the writers to delve further into the background case of Crews'. There are shadowy characters who disappear further into the shadows because this plot point is treated as peripheral. It needs to be more in the center of the action.
Don't get me wrong there is sharp dialogue galore and actors with the chops to get it across. But the show needs to come together better. I recall feeling similar re: the first season of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and, well, we know how fine that has turned out. Let's hope Life (great title, by the way) grows in the same way and that NBC makes that investment.
I hope NBC allows this program to evolve and develop its intriguing array of characters, played well by its cast, especially the innovative Damien Lewis, who brings nuance and passion to all his roles. We also need the writers to delve further into the background case of Crews'. There are shadowy characters who disappear further into the shadows because this plot point is treated as peripheral. It needs to be more in the center of the action.
Don't get me wrong there is sharp dialogue galore and actors with the chops to get it across. But the show needs to come together better. I recall feeling similar re: the first season of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and, well, we know how fine that has turned out. Let's hope Life (great title, by the way) grows in the same way and that NBC makes that investment.
Romance
tatetytiffany27 November 2017
Warning: Spoilers
Totally ruined the show by having the sleazy boss sleep with the hot detective. Did not add anything to show and was almost impossible to watch after that. Messed up a good show. Story line was good each show had a crime with the added bonus of the big picture of who put him in jail. All destroyed by that stupid romance.
Meet Dr. Gregory House of Cop World!
themoviejedi15 September 2007
I promised myself not to get hooked on any new TV show this season as there were a handful of shows i loved last season that got cancelled...
well, so much for that.... i hated both CHUCK and BIONIC WOMAN pilots with utter disgust and yet these two are NBC's flagship banners this season... chances are, they both will survive over the shows that had more quality: LIFE and JOURNEYMAN finally. a cop drama that had substance in it. charlie crews stroke me as the DR HOUSE of the cop drama world.
his being not attuned to the technological advancements since being locked in, provides the comic relief of the show...
charlie crews' partner has an interesting storyline as well.
the pilot episode seems to be suited to how things are going on today.
it's an irony that a guy who hasn't been in touch with the world solved a mystery that includes the word "I.M" ( a little spoiler there)...
well, just a heads up for everybody. you should definitely check this show out. my wednesdays @ 9pm are locked in for this show.
PS: NBC, please don't pull a FOX on this one.
well, so much for that.... i hated both CHUCK and BIONIC WOMAN pilots with utter disgust and yet these two are NBC's flagship banners this season... chances are, they both will survive over the shows that had more quality: LIFE and JOURNEYMAN finally. a cop drama that had substance in it. charlie crews stroke me as the DR HOUSE of the cop drama world.
his being not attuned to the technological advancements since being locked in, provides the comic relief of the show...
charlie crews' partner has an interesting storyline as well.
the pilot episode seems to be suited to how things are going on today.
it's an irony that a guy who hasn't been in touch with the world solved a mystery that includes the word "I.M" ( a little spoiler there)...
well, just a heads up for everybody. you should definitely check this show out. my wednesdays @ 9pm are locked in for this show.
PS: NBC, please don't pull a FOX on this one.
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