Classics: A Review of Sound of Freedom By Lauren Ennis

Arguably the most sinister crime is the abuse of children. With the advent of the internet the creation and distribution of child pornography has become one of the fastest growing criminal enterprises in the world. While stories appear in the news about trafficking and abuse victims every day the sheer magnitude of this issue has left  the public at a loss as to what can be done to address it. 2023's sleeper hit Sound of Freedom follows one man as he makes it his personal mission to rescue trafficking victims and bring traffickers to justice. At once a compelling retelling of one man's journey into the darkest corners of the criminal underworld and a universal call to action the film is equal parts wrenching and inspiring. Witness the power of The Sound of Freedom.

The story begins in Honduras with eleven year old Rocio and her eight year old brother, Miguel, being approached by glamorous local beauty queen Gisselle. Gisselle presents the children with what seems to be the opportunity of a lifetime when she offers them the chance to audition for her child modeling agency. Despite his misgivings, the children's father, Roberto, reluctantly gives in to their pleas and agrees to allow them to attend the audition. The family's dream soon turns into a nightmare when  Roberto arrives to pick the children up from the audition only to find that they, along with the entire 'agency', have disappeared. It is then revealed that Rocio and Miguel, along with all of the other children at the audition, have been sold into human trafficking. Meanwhile,  DHS agent Tim Ballard is working in undercover operations tracking human traffickers. During one of his operations he manages to rescue Miguel, who begs for his help in finding Rocio. The film then follows Ballard on a harrowing journey into the dark world of human trafficking in pursuit of of the missing girl.

In the weeks since its release Sound of Freedom has taken audiences and the box office by storm and it is little wonder why. The film succeeds by putting a human face on the issue of human trafficking while still acting as an apt thriller. By focusing upon Ballard and his mission to rescue Rocio the film personalizes the horrors that trafficking victims are subjected to. Through this single-minded focus upon its characters and their unique struggles the film ensures that viewers will invest in the characters' fate without  resorting to lecturing or preaching. Even as the film relates its brutal tale it also offers thrills that rival those of its famous counterpart Taken. Whether busting child pornographers, outsmarting communist guerillas, or creating an elaborate sting operation worthy of Robert Redford and Paul Newman, Ballard's adventures are certain to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. What sets this film apart from its crime drama counterparts is the way in which it allows its true life story to speak for itself rather than relying upon unnecessary action sequences or embellishments. As a result, the film achieves the enviable balance of relating a vital message without restricting itself to merely being a 'message movie'. After one viewing you will be hard pressed to forget the echo of the Sound of Freedom. 

The film brings Ballard's harrowing story to life thanks to the brilliant work of its cast. Yessica Borroto expertly blends cool charisma and cold calculation as beauty queen turned child trafficker Gisselle. Javier Godino portrays Columbian policeman Jorge with an apt combination of empathy and world weariness. Eduardo Verastegui infuses millionaire playboy turned undercover operative Paul with roguish charm. Bill Camp steals each scene in which he appears as charismatic cartel accountant turned anti-trafficking operative, Vampiro. Jose Zuniga offers a heartbreaking turn as Rocio and Miguel's father, Roberto. Newcomers Cristal Aparicio and Lucas Avila are nothing short of haunting in their depiction of innocence lost as Rocio and Miguel. Jim Caviezel turns in the performance of his career as Ballard as he follows Ballard on a tortuous journey through the darkest, cruelest, depths of the human soul to ultimate redemption.

Sound of Freedom is difficult, uncomfortable, inspiring, and ultimately essential viewing. The film's script manages to raise awareness of the scope and scale of the issue of child trafficking while still relating a powerful and compelling drama. The stellar performances transport viewers from the US across Central and South America on a harrowing journey into the darkest depths of the  criminal underworld. For one of the most important cinematic experiences that you'll ever have listen to the Sound of Freedom.

Classics: A Review of Blue Period By Lauren Ennis

Can living without passion truly be considered living? That is the question that lies at the heart of 2021's hit anime series Blue Period. This deceptively simple tale aptly explores the chaos, confusion, and pain of finding who you are as well as the anxiety and exhilaration of discovering who you want to be. Through its depiction of one teen's journey to become an artist the series acts as a tribute to passion and an ode to the artist within us all. Start adding to your own canvas with Blue Period.

The story begins with high school student Yatura Yaguchi leading a stable but passionless life. He balances his days between socializing with friends and diligently studying without realizing that he is merely going through the motions of life. All of that changes after he stumbles upon a fellow student's painting. Mesmerized by the beauty of this work he becomes inspired to make a painting of his own in art class. With that one assignment he finds himself drawn into the world of art against his better judgment. He then becomes determined to earn a place in art school even as he remains painfully aware of just how high the odds are stacked against him. The series then follows him as he struggles through difficult courses, class rivalries, and his own insecurities in his pursuit of his dream of becoming an artist. 

Much like such classics as Lust for Life and Dead Poet's Society, Blue Period urges us to seize the day and is sure to inspire you to chase your dreams. Through its simple tale of one teen's efforts to enter art school the series perfectly captures the trials and triumphs of the artistic experience. In its depiction of Yatura's mundane existence prior to art entering his life the series aptly portrays the emptiness of a life without passion. Similarly, it showcases the ways in which passion for even one aspect of our life inevitably infuses the rest of our lives with greater meaning and purpose. Even as it celebrates the importance of passion, however, the series avoids the trap of romanticizing Yatura's pursuit of his. In fact, the series is at its most effective and poignant when he is forced to confront the all too real struggles he faces in his efforts to become an artist. For example, in the midst of his burgeoning love affair with painting he is still plagued by the fear that sharing his dream with his mother would only disappoint her. Similarly, when he enters prep school he is  haunted by his insecurities, particularly when he compares himself to his more experienced classmates. In this way the series shares a story for anyone who has ever pursued their passion and everyone who wishes that they had. Unleash the artist within you along with Yatura in Blue Period. 

The series brings Tsubasa Yamaguchi's 2017 manga to vibrant life as Yatura's journey leaps off of the page and onto the screen. The series utilizes Japan's signature animation style to infuse each of the characters with unique designs and movement. Even as it uses the exaggerated style of anime to highlight the characters' divergent personalities it depicts the art that they study with remarkable realism. In this way the series showcases the breathtaking beauty of the work of such artistic icons as Degas, Van Gogh, and Picasso in a way that leaves little wonder as to why they inspire Yatura. The voice actors infuse each of the characters with a depth, charm, and raw emotion that ensures that viewers will root for them every step of the way. Feast your eyes upon beauty of Blue Period.

This celebration of the trials and triumphs of the artist's life is every bit as inspiring as the real life works of art that Yatura and his classmates study.  At once a universal coming of age story and an in depth portrait of a budding artist the series is certain to appeal to anyone who has ever felt touched by a work of art. Through its portrayal of Yatura's tribulations and achievements the series offers a surprisingly realistic depiction of the sacrifices that art requires and the passion that makes it all worthwhile. Paint outside of the lines with Yatura in Blue Period.

Classics: A Review of The Pursuit of Happiness By Lauren Ennis

How far would you go for your family? This is the question that lies at the heart of the 2006 drama The Pursuit of Happyness. Through its depiction of one man's struggle to protect and provide for his son the film presents a portrait of fatherhood at its most selfless. In its portrayal of its unique story the film pays universal tribute to the self-sacrifice, and love that define fatherhood. This father's day bond with your father over The Pursuit of Happyness.

Like father, like son

Based upon the autobiography of stockbroker Chris Gardner, the film relates a tale of one man's journey from poverty to prosperity. The film begins with Gardner struggling to make ends meet meet selling medical scanners that most hospitals deem an unnecessary luxury. Despite his best efforts he, his wife, Linda, and their young son, Christopher, continue to live a 'hand to mouth' existence. Their financial struggles strain the couple's marriage until Linda finally walks out, leaving Chris to raise his son alone. As Chris' finances continue to deteriorate he and Christopher face eviction and finally homelessness. When Chris is offered an internship at prestigious brokerage firm Dean Witter Reynolds he recognizes the unpaid position for the opportunity that it is. Through the ensuing months he is determined to prove himself as both an employee and a father as he struggles to balance his work and family responsibilities, all while navigating life in the shelter system. 

The depiction of Chris' journey to Hell and back for the sake of his son makes The Pursuit of Happyness a perennial crowd pleaser and prime Father's Day viewing. The film expertly highlights both the bond that exists between Chris and Christopher and the lengths to which Chris will go to protect this bond. In this way, the film ensures that audiences are just as invested in the pair's relationship as they are in Chris' struggles. The focus upon the bond between the two additionally ensures that even those who have never stepped foot in a homeless shelter will relate to Chris' journey and appreciate just how high the stakes of his pursuit of happiness truly are.  Some critics have contended that the film places too high of an emphasis upon Chris' pursuit of wealth, but those critics have missed the point of the film. While Chris' journey does include his struggle to earn an income in order to provide a healthy and stable life for his son, his success is not one that can be measured in dollars and cents. Instead, his success is best measured in terms of the love that motivated him to achieve it and the happiness that it brought to the most important person in his life; his young son. For a film that you and your dad can both enjoy make an investment in The Pursuit of Happyness, but make sure that you invest in a box of Kleenex while you're at it.

Chris Gardner's real life story is brought to vibrant life thank to the stellar work of its cast. Brian Howe exudes likeability at Chris' unlikely ally and boss, Jay Twistle. Thandiwe Newton personifies world weariness as Chris' wife, Linda. Jaden Smith proves himself to be more than just another child actor in a performance that combines a raw emotion, depth, and sincerity that belies his young years as Christopher. Even in the midst of superior supporting performances the film belongs to Will Smith as Chris. In Smith's hands Gardner is more than just one man and is instead an everyman in which all of us can see ourselves. As a result, viewers are certain to be rooting for him on every step of his pursuit of happiness. 

At once an apt portrayal of one man's journey and a universal story of the power of family The Pursuit of Happyness is well worth pursuing. Through its unflinching script the film brilliantly brings Gardner's harrowing journey from rags to riches to the screen. The film's real life characters are vividly brought to life thanks to the expert work of its cast. This Father's Day kick back with some grilling and flip your remote onto The Pursuit of Happyness.

"This part right here...this is called happiness"

Classics: A Review of The Letter By Lauren Ennis

Noir is a genre populated with shady dames and murky morals. Even in the back alley's of film noir, however, rarely has a femme been quite so fatale as  Leslie Crosby in 1940's The Letter. In her hypnotic performance Bette Davis' Lesley personifies the all too real evil that lives among us. Bridging the gap between melodrama and noir this film acts as a gritty legal thriller and compelling character study in human cruelty. For one of Davis' most memorable performances open The Letter.

A clear cut case of self-defense

The story begins on a rubber plantation in Malaysia as British expatriate Leslie Crosby shoots a man on the steps of her home. It is soon revealed that the victim was a friend of Leslie husband, Robert, fellow expat Geoff Hammond. While Leslie maintains that she shot Hammond in self-defense during an attempted rape, she is arrested and her case is brought to trial. Although her fellow expats hail her as a heroine her attorney, family friend Howard Joyce, is skeptical of her story. Howard's suspicions are confirmed when his clerk informs him that Hammond's wife, an unnamed local woman, possesses a salacious letter Leslie wrote to Hammond. In an effort to protect his client Howard acts against his own conscience and sets out to buy the letter from Hammond's widow and ensure that neither Robert nor the jury learn of his client's sordid past. What ensues is a noirish legal thriller that takes viewers on a harrowing journey into the heart of a killer.

Through its dark subject matter, morally compromised characters, and expressionist cinematography The Letter stands as one of the earliest examples of film noir. Even in its place at the forefront of the genre, however, the film manages to defy genre conventions by challenging viewer expectations as well as the norms of its era. While noir typically exposes the dark side of the modern metropolis The Letter is set on the exotic shores of Malaysia. Similarly, the film follows society's elites rather than its dregs. As a result, the film's depiction of human nature at its most brutal is all the more shocking. In this way, the film highlights the fact that all too often the greatest evil is that which is within our own midst. The film also defies the norms of its era through the ways in which it subverts both gender and racial stereotypes. While many post-Hays Code films depicted female characters in an idealized light The Letter harkens back to Hollywood's pre-censorship era in its portrayal of Leslie. While she outwardly seems to personify society's ideals, the film slowly reveals Leslie to be one of the most self-serving, callous, and calculating individuals ever put to celluloid. Similarly, the film begins with what appears to be a stereotypical portrayal of the Malaysian workers employed on Robert's plantation. Over time, however, the film inverts these stereotypes by portraying its Malaysian characters, particularly Hammond's wife, with a dignity and humanity that escapes their British counterparts. In this way, the film exposes the hypocrisies of both its characters and the colonial society in which they live. Even as it seems to bend the noir genre at every turn the film captures the dark heart of the genre. For a look at noir at its most unique take the stand with Leslie in The Letter.

Not at all ominous...

The film transports viewers into the jungles of Malaysia and the soul of a sinner thanks to the brilliant work of its cast. Sen Yung infuses Howard's clerk, Ong Chi Seng with cool cunning. Herbert Marshall aptly portrays Robert with humility, charm, and warmth. James Stephenson imbues Howard with intelligence, and portrays his moral conflict with nuance. Gale Sondergaard steals each scene in which he appears in a virtually silent performance as Hammond's vengeful wife that is nothing short of haunting. Even in the midst of stellar supporting performances the film belongs to Bette Davis. In Davis' hands what could have been a melodramatic turn is instead a chilling portrait of humanity at its most ruthless. One viewing will remind viewers why Bette Davis is still considered one of Hollywood's all time greats.

At once a tense courtroom drama, a gritty noir, and a character study, The Letter is a classic that defies genre limits. Through its intelligent and nuanced script the film brings Maugham's stage drama to visceral life. The all star performances infuse each of its characters with depth, complexity, and realism. Kick back with a cool classic and tear open The Letter.

With all my heart I still love the man I killed!

Classics: A Review of Swing Kids By Lauren Ennis

Adolescence is a turbulent time in which we learn who we are and who we want to be. It is a confusing period in which we rebel against authority and feel a desperate need to be heard. Imagine how much more difficult and desperate that time is when the mere act of questioning authority is forbidden and rebellion is illegal. 1993's Swing Kids aptly explores that very subject. The film relates a coming of age story set against the backdrop of Nazi Germany in which each of its three protagonists are forced to decide not only who they want to be, but also what kind of world they want to live in. An equally adept ode to adolescence and tribute to the power of resistance Swing Kids will leave you singing its praises.

Dressed up like a million dollar trooper trying hard to look like Gary Cooper

The story begins in 1939 Hamburg as high school friends Peter, Thomas, and Arvid struggle to navigate adolescence in the midst of an authoritarian regime. The boys find release from their restricted lives in the city's underground clubs where they listen to banned American music. The trio's friendship is put to the test when Peter and Thomas are forced to join the local Hitler Youth program after they are caught stealing a radio. As time passes Thomas becomes enamored with the program and the brutal ideology that it promotes. Peter, meanwhile, is forced to come to terms with his mother's relationship of convenience with a local gestapo officer while Arvid finds himself increasingly alienated from both of his friends. When he learns the true depths of the horror gripping his country Peter is forced to choose a side and learns who his true friends really are.

While numerous films have addressed the horrors of Nazi Germany Swing Kids stands out for its exploration of the adolescent experience under authoritarianism.  Through its focus upon the struggles and conflicts that Thomas, Peter, and Arvid face the film highlights the ways in which totalitarian regimes crush youthful hopes and passions. Over the course of the film the trio are forced to sacrifice their shared love of swing, their friendships, and finally their individuality. In its depiction of the ways in which each of the characters lives are fundamentally changed by the Nazi regime the film sheds light upon  the devastating impact of totalitarian regimes both past and present. As a result, the film  brings history alive in a way that kids and teens can relate to while highlighting the damage that authoritarian governments continue to inflict today. Even as it offers an unflinching look at one of the darkest chapters in history the film also acts as a testament to the resilience of youth and the power of the human spirit. In its depiction of the characters' small acts of rebellion the film shows the ways in which ordinary people can resist against oppression. In this way the film reminds viewers of all ages of the vital importance of maintaining your values even in the face of persecution and the ways in which all of us can work towards a better tomorrow. For a historical drama that the whole family will love put on your dancing shoes with Peter, Thomas, and Arvid in Swing Kids.

It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing

The film transports viewers to the dark days of the Third Reich thanks to the brilliant work of its cast. Barbara Hershey aptly portrays Frau Mueller's conflicted efforts to protect her children from the oppression surrounding them. Kenneth Branagh infuses SS office Knopp with sinister sleaze. Frank Whaley steals each scene in which he appears as valiant rebel with a cause Arvid. Christian Bale depicts Thomas' transformation from snarky swing kid to conforming Hitler Youth with a realism that foreshadows his later success. Robert Sean Leonard is the film's beating heart as everyman Peter and captures Peter's coming of age with a depth, maturity, and raw emotion that belies his young years.

At once a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit and a haunting reminder of its many failings Swing Kids is far more than your average family film. The script's blend of realism and raw emotion vividly brings one of history's darkest chapters to life. The stellar work of the cast transports viewers from Hamburg's swinging dancehalls to the brutal reality of everyday life in Nazi Germany. Swing into action with Arvid, Thomas, and Peter in Swing Kids.

Rebels with a cause

Classics: A Review of The Secret of NIMH By Lauren Ennis

Each year we devote one day to honoring the women who set us on our first steps of life's journey; our mothers. For better or for worse our mothers shape who we are and inspire who we ultimately become. Given the importance of mothers in their children's lives its bizarre how few family films focus upon mothers. This trend is so prevalent that family entertainment juggernaut Disney has jokingly become synonymous with dead or missing mothers. One film that defied this odd standard to spectacular effect is 1982's cult classic The Secret of NIMH. While it is better known today for being the first animated film to challenge Disney's dominance, The Secret of NIMH offers one of cinema's most compelling portraits of the struggles, sacrifices, and transformative power of motherhood. This mother's day join Mrs. Brisby on an unforgettable adventure to learn The Secret of NIMH. 

This one's for all of the moms out there...

The story begins with widowed field mouse Mrs. Brisby struggling to provide for her four children. The family's already fragile existence is thrown into upheaval when they learn that a nearby farmer plans to plow the field that they are living in. While her neighbors urge her to move her family to safety one of her children, Timothy, is ill with pneumonia and cannot be moved. At the advice of her wise neighbor, Mr. Ages, she seeks out the Great Owl who directs her to a colony of hyper intelligent rats living under the farmer's rose bush. She then sets out on an epic quest to save her family and discover the great and terrible secret of NIMH.

While The Secret of NIMH showcases such animated adventure staples as evil villains, magic, and comic sidekicks the film's choice of heroine sets it apart. Mrs. Brisby is not royalty and does not possess special powers. She is not saving the world or exploring unknown lands. She is merely a mother doing the best that she can to provide for and protect her children. As a result, she is perhaps the most unlikely of animated heroines; an all too relatable everywoman. It is for this reason that she is truly a heroine for our times. While most cinematic heroes are notable for their fearlessness, Mrs. Brisby begins the movie as outright timid. What makes her truly heroic is that she does not allow this fear to hold her back when her children are endangered as she routinely risks her own safety to ensure her children's. In this way, she offers an inspiring example of what we can accomplish when we face our fears. Her single-minded determination to protect her children also personifies the bravery and self-sacrifice that sets good mothers apart. As a result, she highlights the importance of maternal role models in a genre in which mothers are sorely lacking. This mother's day give your mother a call and let her in on The Secret of NIMH.

The film brings Robert C. O'Brien's novel Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH to brilliant life thanks to its dazzling animation and exemplary vocal performances. When Don Bluth left Disney to start his own studio he did so with the goal of reviving classic animation, and his debut feature does just that. The expressiveness of the characters, the scope of the settings, and the thrilling action sequences stand leave this reviewer longing for a return to 2D animation. The voice actors' perfectly suit their characters with Elizabeth Hartman lending the best performance of her career since 1965's A Patch of Blue. Bluth favorite Dom DeLuise lends his signature comedic skill in his uproarious turn as lovelorn crow Jeremy. Peter Strauss' charm and relatability ensure that gallant rat Justin makes for a surprisingly noble hero. Paul Shenar is a villain worthy of Vincent Price as the coup plotting rat Jenner. Together, the cast create a memorable world of heroes and villains to rival even the most celebrated of fairy tales.

At once a thrilling adventure and a heartfelt ode to motherhood it's no secret why The Secret of NIMH continues to delight the young and young at heart. The script vividly brings O'Brien's story to the screen while imbuing it with Don Bluth's signature flair. The animation is nothing short of breathtaking as it transports viewers from the pastoral beauty of an open field, to the horrors of NIMH's labs, to the dark beauty of the rats' colony. The voice performances bring each of the characters to vibrant life and ensure that viewers will root for the film's furry heroes every step of the way. For the mother of all animated adventures follow Mrs. Brisby to find The Secret of NIMH.

Classics: A Review of Perry Mason By Lauren Ennis

From 1957 to 1966 one name was synonymous with integrity, ingenuity, and the rule of law; Perry Mason. The classic series followed the brilliant defense attorney as he tackled one convoluted case after another, always managing to reach a winning verdict before the end of the hour. In 2020's HBO adaptation Mason could not be more different from his beloved predecessor, and is all the better for it. This noirish reboot follows its reluctant hero on a twisting journey through the gritty streets of Depression era L.A. that is guaranteed to leave viewers guessing until its final reveal. At once an apt tribute to the early television classic and a refreshingly original standalone piece Perry Mason is guilty of being one of the most entertaining legal dramas to ever grace the small screen.

The story begins in 1932 as Matthew and Emily Dodson race to pay the ransom for their kidnapped infant son, Charlie. The couple gladly pay the ransom only to make the devastating realization that Charlie was killed during the course of the kidnapping. Police suspicions quickly fall on the Dodsons, prompting Matthew's father,  powerful industrialist Herman Baggerly to intervene on their behalf. Meanwhile, Perry Mason is working as a private investigator for his mentor, attorney E. B. White. White's firm agrees to take on the Dodson case as a favor to Baggerly, setting its staff on a collision course with the LAPD, the rising Evangelist movement, and the political establishment. White, Mason, and their secretary, Della, soon find themselves put to the ultimate test as the case leads them down a trail of murder, corruption, and coverups that is just the stuff film noir is made of. 

In this modern retelling the squeaky clean attorney of old is all but abandoned in favor of a morally murky and all too human hero for our times. The series wisely moves the action from the original's post-war setting to the early 1930's. Even as it moves the story back in time the altered setting actually makes the series feel more modern as it uses the backdrop of the Great Depression to explore such timely themes as economic uncertainty, racial and gender tensions, the impending threat of war and institutional corruption. This change also allows the script to act as an origin story in its exploration of Mason's humble beginnings as a struggling private investigator coping with trauma from World War I. In this way, Mason is transformed from a near genius in the style of Sherlock Holmes to an everyman who viewers will find themselves relating to and rooting for. Similarly, the series invests each member of the supporting cast with backstories and conflicts that ensures that they are fully realized characters rather than the stock types and plot devices that characters were reduced to in the original hourly series. The series also aptly utilizes the aesthetic of classic noir to to highlight the morally grey subject matter while placing the plot firmly within the context of the early thirties. In this way the series serves as an accurate historical drama while offering an atmospheric crime story that will appeal to the jaded taste of modern viewers. For a drama that delivers style and substance in equal measure take a stroll down the dark alleys of 1930's L. A. with Perry Mason.

The series brings the gritty streets of Depression-era Los Angeles to life thanks to the brilliant work of its cast. Gayle Rankin perfectly blends the contradictory small town naivete and disillusioned world weariness that define Emily Dodson. Nate Corddry aptly conveys Matthew's devastation at the loss of his son and betrayal of his wife. Andrew Howard is nothing short of chilling in his ruthless portrayal of corrupt cop Joe Ennis. Eric Lange depicts Ennis' equally compromised partner, Gene Holcomb, with subtle menace and cold calculation.  Veronica Falcon infuses pilot turned speakeasy owner Lupe with shrewdness, humor, and a sizzling sensuality worth of Marlene Dietrich. Tatiana Manslany is mesmerizing as magnetic preacher Sister Alice McKeegan. Chris Chalk aptly portrays the inner conflict of honest police officer Paul Drake in his depiction of Drake's efforts to maneuver the corruption surrounding him. Juliet Rylance infuses Mason's secretary turned attorney Della Street with wit, warmth, and charm in a performance that rival's Barbara Hale's iconic turn in the original series. Even in the midst of a superior supporting cast the series belongs to Matthew Rhys as Perry Mason. In Rhys hands' the too good to be true attorney of the original series is transformed into an all too human everyman struggling to hold onto his principles in an increasingly unprincipled world.

At once an inspired tribute to both its predecessor and classic noir and a refreshingly original mystery Perry Mason aptly raises the standard of modern television. The script expertly balances the grit and atmosphere of classic noir with a modern sensibility to create a viewing experience that is nothing short of gripping. The expert performances of the cast transport viewers to the dust ridden streets of 1930's Los Angeles and the darkest corners of the human soul. The verdict is in Perry Mason is one of the most riveting dramas to appear on the small screen.