Synopsis
"Is to Live and Die in LA" is a crime drama series that premiered on Netflix in 2020. The show is based on the memoir "The Big Chill: Life, Love, and Crime in the Bay Area" by William Andrews Braggs. The series follows the lives of a group of friends who reunite in Los Angeles, only to find themselves entangled in a web of crime, corruption, and deceit.
Cast and Crew
- The show features a talented cast, including:
- Ken Leung as Jaxson "Jax" Laroche
- Amber Midthunder as Detective Marnie Gherkin
- Johnny Boy Landers as Oakley
- Brian Healy as (uncredited)
- The show was created by Megan Plowman, Andrew Barron, and Sam Levinson
Plot
The series follows the lives of a group of friends who reunite in Los Angeles in 1980. The group, which includes Jax, Marnie, Oakley, and others, has become notorious for their reckless behavior and lack of responsibility. However, things take a dark turn when they are entangled in a murder investigation.
As the series progresses, the group’s relationships are put to the test, and they must confront their own personal demons. Meanwhile, a new group of friends enters the scene, including a young woman who is connected to the original group.
Key Themes
- The series explores themes of:
- Friendship and loyalty
- Mortality and the inevitability of death
- Addiction and the allure of destructive behavior
- Corruption and the blurred lines between right and wrong
- The show also touches on issues of identity and self-discovery, as the characters navigate their relationships with each other and with themselves.
Mood and Atmosphere
- The series has a dark and gritty tone, with a focus on crime and corruption
- The show’s cinematography is stunning, with a focus on Los Angeles’s urban landscape
- The mood is often tense and foreboding, with a sense of impending doom hanging over the characters
Key Cast Characters
- Jax Laroche (Ken Leung): A charismatic and confident leader of the group, Jax is a complex character with a dark past.
- Marnie Gherkin (Amber Midthunder): A smart and resourceful detective, Marnie is initially wary of the group but eventually becomes embroiled in their activities.
- Oakley (Johnny Boy Landers): A charming and affable young man, Oakley is a new arrival in the group and is immediately drawn to the group’s notorious reputation.
- Alec (Sam Ahers): A young and ambitious lawyer, Alec is initially portrayed as a smooth-talking con artist but ultimately reveals a more vulnerable side.
Relationships and Friendship
- The relationships between the characters are central to the show, and are often fraught with tension and conflict
- The group’s dynamics are complex and multifaceted, with each character bringing their own unique perspectives and experiences to the table
- The relationships between the characters are often blurred and ambivalent, with each person simultaneously seeking to maintain their own individuality and deepen their friendships with the others
The Role of Crime and Corruption
- The show explores the darker aspects of human nature, including the allure of crime and the ease with which corruption can thrive
- The series uses the group’s involvement in a murder investigation to explore themes of justice and accountability
- The show’s portrayal of crime and corruption is often raw and unflinching, with a focus on the consequences of these actions.
The Power of Addiction
- The show highlights the dangers of addiction, particularly when it comes to the allure of destructive behavior
- The characters’ addiction to substances and their destructive habits are a recurring theme throughout the series
- The show also explores the consequences of addiction, including the toll it takes on relationships and overall well-being.
Impact and Reception
- The show was widely praised by critics and audiences alike, with many praising its original storytelling and strong performances
- The series has been praised for its nuanced exploration of complex themes, including addiction, corruption, and friendship
- The show has also been praised for its stunning cinematography and atmospheric sound design.
Conclusion
"Is to Live and Die in LA" is a thought-provoking and visually stunning series that explores complex themes and relationships. With its strong performances, nuanced storytelling, and atmospheric cinematography, the show is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and anyone looking for a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition.
Stats and Details
| Platform | Release Date | Number of Episodes | Runtime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Netflix | October 24, 2020 | 6 episodes | 45 minutes |
| Genre | Crime Drama |
Nominations and Accolades
- Critics’ Choice Television Awards
- Outstanding Drama Series (2021)
- Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series (Amber Midthunder) (2021)
- Golden Globe Awards
- Best Television Series – Drama (2021)
- Best Supporting Actress in a Series, Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television (Amber Midthunder) (2021)