If the show doesn’t fit, then you must quit. This statement does not reflect the success of the new FX program “American Crime Story: The People vs. O.J. Simpson.” The show premiered Tuesday Feb. 3, and it is already clear that the channel known for creating the riveting and suspenseful hour long programs, such as “American Horror Story” and “Sons of Anarchy” has done it again.
The show is created by Ryan Murphy, the mastermind behind such programs as “Glee” and “American Horror Story.” The show follows the story of O.J. Simpson, a former athlete whose ex-wife is killed one night as O.J. prepares to go to Chicago. As the police begin to investigate, evidence leads them to believe that Simpson is a suspect in the case.
In terms of openings, the show has one of the most grabbing. The show begins with images of early police brutality and riots from various people and groups of people that are filled with vandalism, cars being flipped and some good old fashion fire. People are brought into the show instantaneously, a fantastic foot for the show to begin on.
Cast wise, the show has a good line up, yet the main cast may need some questioning. This is mainly focused on Cuba Gooding Jr. (“Selma”), who portrays Simpson. The moment he walks on screen you question the power of his performance. His initial scene in a limo heading to the airport just doesn’t help him in terms of setting the mood and following the prior scene.
Cuba picks up his performance at parts. His time in the interrogation room, as well as his initial conversation with the cops show the actor’s strength, plus his deserving of the role. Yet viewers often have to weigh the good with the bad, scenes shine or fad through out and a consistent opinion of the performance is hard to form.
Other members of the cast do a great job standing out on the screen and drawing fans in. Sarah Paulson (“American Horror Story”) plays Marcia Clark, a prosecutor who is assigned to the case after news breaks. Her character is well developed and the actress gives a great performance as she goes through a divorce, questions the integrity of the cops investigating and interrogating Simpson, and her passion for his ex-wife after she discovers that Simpson hurt her in the past.
Another performance that stands out in the episode is given by Courtney B. Vance (“Terminator: Genisys”) who portrays Johnnie Cochran, a lawyer who is opposed to working the case at first. The actor uses his time on screen better than any other actor in the episode. Each scene with him stands strong and leaves viewers wanting more. Great things should be coming from Vance as the series progresses.
Two that leave people questioning are David Schwimmer (“Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted”) and John Travolta (“Criminal Activities”). Schwimmer plays Robert Kardashian and Travolta plays Robert Shapiro, two members of the defense team. The two give good performances and work well with each other and Gooding Jr. as they prepare their case. Yet both leave more to be desired. They are good, not great, and tend not to stand out or work as well as other members of the cast. As things continue they may have more opportunities to step up, but right now they are sitting on the side lines waiting to be called.
The show had a great start, nice build up for the next episode and incredible potential. Be sure to watch next week, and if you missed the first episode be sure to catch up, you don’t want to miss the case for a second.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
