When this show first aired in 2009 I needed serious cheering up.
I found it accidentally and, my goodness, was I happy for that accident.
Knowing I could tune into this show was such a relief - I easily recall the happy memories of sitting down to tune into it.
Nathan Fillion deserved to have a show that exhibited his wonderful comedic timing and challenged him as the seasons progressed. His leading charisma is unique - his presence alone could absorb all the attention with little effort.
And while respecting Fillion's allure, Stana Katic was, by far, the true break-out star of the show.
Her performance as Beckett was stunning, forever engrossing and a masterclass in acting. In many ways the show really revolved around her - Castle is stronger with Beckett, she gave him a focus and greater depth, a purpose and someone to live for. and it was a wonderful relationship arc to watch (until the murkiness - the writers know what they did)
I truly believe Katic did for Fillion, what Beckett did for Castle. Their onscreen chemistry was effortless. But Katic raised the bar performance-wise and demanded Fillion give a deeper insight into Castle's emotional centre in order to match Beckett's struggle and grit. This is why this show was incredible.
Jon Huertas, Seamus Dever, Tamala Jones, Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Susan Sullivan, Penny Johnson Jerald and Molly C. Quinn built one of the strongest and lovable ensembles I have ever watched. Whenever I see them in their own non-Castle credits, my heart leaps. I got so used to seeing a new episode of Castle every week or so for 7 years. It was hard to adjust. (until I remembered the murkiness... eek)
When it comes to 'jumping the shark', this show at notable moments in the later seasons - leapt over oceans. It was very difficult to understand how the team of writers and producers - who had 100% nailed the magic formula for excellence in TV writing - made such a meandering dive in some of the storylines - especially the end.
The unknown circumstances around the infamous Season 9 and contract issues was a truly heartbreaking reality to face as an ardent fan. Having been the mightiest assets to the show, the fact the writers considered a Castle season without Beckett or Lanie was nothing short of mindblowing.
So, in that sense, it was better to leave it to end on peaceful terms- heartbreaking though it was.
I give it 10 stars because, despite the imperfections in the writing and direction towards the end, this show was a gift to me a decade ago and following it over the years brought so much entertainment and escapism. I was and am eternally grateful to the writers and cast for creating it and for bringing fun back to this genre.
A major shout-out to the exceptional soundtrack and editing because the command of emotional pace was incredible.
6 out of 14 found this helpful.
Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Tell Your Friends