Is Desperate Lies on Netflix a True Story?
The Formulaic Police Procedural Drama
Desperate LIES is a Netflix original series that premiered in 2018 and has since gained a large following. The show is an adaptation of L.A. Story, a German television series created by Steve Martino and Zach Cregger. The series follows the story of Mike Milliken, a Los Angeles cop played by Jonathan Goldstein, who is a third-generation cop with a troubled past.
The Formula: Police Procedural Drama
Desperate LIES follows a similar formula to other police procedural dramas on Netflix, such as Orange is the New Black and Killing Eve. The show typically features a group of detectives working together to solve crimes, often with a focus on racial tensions and police brutality. The series explores themes of identity, community, and social justice, but also frequently gets bogged down in repetitive plotlines and character development.
Recurring Characters and Plotlines
One of the main concerns with Desperate LIES is its reliance on recurring characters and plotlines. The show features a large ensemble cast, including Tony Hale as Detective Arnold Skolnick, a wheelchair-bound detective played by Justin Chatwin. However, the characters tend to recede into the background as the series progresses, making it difficult for viewers to become invested in their stories.
- Samra Shepard plays Sandra Broussard, the lead detective and Mike’s love interest. However, her character is often relegated to background scenes, and her storyline is frequently resolved in a predictable manner.
- Alyssa Davis plays Sean Hansen, a romantic interest for Mike. While Davis is a talented actress, her character is often reduced to a plot device rather than a fully fleshed-out person.
- David Oyelowo plays Detective Lonnie Lemmons, a highly intelligent and experienced detective. Oyelowo is a versatile actor who has delivered impressive performances in films like Selma and A United Kingdom.
Lack of Depth and Character Development
One of the main criticisms of Desperate LIES is its lack of depth and character development. The show often relies on contrived plot twists and convenient coincidences to advance the story, rather than exploring the complexities of its characters.
- Mike’s backstory: The show’s creators often gloss over Mike’s troubled past, reducing it to a series of vague anecdotes rather than a fully fleshed-out narrative.
- Arnold Skolnick’s character: Skolnick’s character is often portrayed as a one-dimensional, stereotypical "cop with a heart of gold." While Hale brings some enthusiasm to the role, the character feels more like a prop than a fully realized person.
- Racial tensions: The show often explores racial tensions in Los Angeles, but these moments are frequently resolved in a way that feels superficial or convenient. The characters’ relationships are not necessarily nuanced or complex.
Nostalgia and Critical Reception
Despite its flaws, Desperate LIES has been praised for its nostalgic value and performances. The show is widely regarded as a guilty pleasure, and its charm lies in its ability to evoke a sense of familiarity and comfort.
- Jonathan Goldstein: Goldstein’s performance as Mike is widely praised, and his chemistry with Hale is undeniable.
- Tony Hale: Hale’s portrayal of Arnold Skolnick is particularly effective, bringing a sense of humor and charisma to the role.
- Supporting cast: The supporting cast, including Rachel Dratch and David Anders, deliver solid performances throughout the series.
Is Desperate LIES a True Story?
In conclusion, Desperate LIES is a Netflix original series that may be worth watching for its nostalgic value and performances, but it is not a true story. The show’s reliance on formulaic plotlines, lack of depth and character development, and nostalgic value make it feel more like a reimagined version of a familiar story than a completely original one.
While the show may explore some real-world issues, such as racial tensions and police brutality, these moments are often resolved in a way that feels superficial or convenient. Overall, Desperate LIES is a show that may appeal to fans of police procedural dramas, but may not be a true story in the classical sense.