Originally released in 1995, John Grisham's The Rainmaker is a gripping thriller that exposes the deep cynicism surrounding the legal profession and the troubling realities of the health insurance industry. The 1997 film adaptation, directed by Francis Ford Coppola and starring Matt Damon, Danny DeVito, and a notably devious Jon Voight, heightened frustrations with these industries, revealing how profit often supersedes principles. Fast forward to today, and the themes of Grisham's work are more relevant than ever. USA Network's new series adaptation of The Rainmaker emerges as a timely commentary, even if the source material feels somewhat dated.
While the original narrative of The Rainmaker reflects a 1990s sentiment, USA and series creators Michael Seitzman and Jason Richman opted for a nostalgic approach that leans more towards the early 2000s and 2010s, reminiscent of the network's “Blue Sky” brand. This era was known for producing reliable, if occasionally formulaic, hits. This strategic choice raises questions about whether the political commentary inherent in Grisham's story may have felt too risky for a revival of the Blue Sky television brand.
Through the first five episodes, The Rainmaker presents itself as a conventional legal thriller. While it lacks the rough edges and opportunities for deeper engagement with real-world issues, the series remains engaging enough thanks to Grisham's storytelling mechanics and a strong supporting cast led by John Slattery and Lana Parrilla. British actor Milo Callaghan stars as Rudy Baylor, a determined law school graduate who overcomes a troubled past to secure a position at the prestigious Tinley Britt law firm. However, after a clash with senior partner Leo Drummond (Slattery), Rudy finds himself jobless on his first day.
Desperate for work, Rudy is drawn to the questionable ethics of his new employer, the "Taco Hut," run by the morally ambiguous Bruiser Stone (Parrilla). Here, he teams up with the comical Deck Shifflet (P.J. Byrne), a para-lawyer who has failed the bar exam multiple times. Together, they embark on two cases, including one involving a grieving mother, Dot Black (Karen Bryson), whose son died under suspicious circumstances after being admitted to a hospital represented by Rudy's former firm.
The show attempts to explore themes of institutional corruption but ultimately simplifies the narrative into a more contained crime story, lacking the depth Grisham’s original work offered. The creators infuse humor into the legal drama, resulting in a tone that evokes comparisons to shows like Suits, particularly given the recent revival of interest in the latter on streaming platforms. Early director Russell Lee Fine, known for his work on White Collar and Graceland, applies a familiar formula that combines humor, sexiness, and enough darkness to captivate viewers without overwhelming them.
While the series tackles themes of injustice within the legal system, it does so in a rather vague manner, suggesting that while the system may be flawed, it also has its entertaining aspects. The portrayal of various settings enhances the story, particularly the contrasting atmospheres of the Taco Hut and the high-end Tinley Britt office. However, the show’s setting feels generic, as it was filmed primarily in Ireland, and the supporting cast often doesn’t reflect the Southern roots of the characters.
Callaghan's performance as Rudy Baylor is characterized by a fiery disposition, although his portrayal doesn't fully resonate with the Southern blue-collar persona intended. His chemistry with Madison Iseman, who plays his girlfriend Sarah, is engaging but Sarah's character remains somewhat predictable and lacks depth. In contrast, the series truly shines when Slattery and Parrilla take the stage. Slattery’s portrayal of Drummond is captivating, and Parrilla’s Bruiser Stone is complex, embodying the moral ambiguity of the legal world.
Ultimately, The Rainmaker finds its sweet spot in blending dark themes with an easygoing style. It thrives on engaging characters, unexpected plot twists, and a soundtrack of smooth country tracks that lighten the mood. While the series may not delve deeply into the heavier themes of murder and abuse, it provides an entertaining experience that aligns with the Blue Sky brand's legacy of easygoing storytelling. As viewers navigate through the complexities of the legal world portrayed in The Rainmaker, they can expect a blend of entertainment and superficial insight into the world of law.
