For longtime fans of Michael Connelly’s novels, the transition of his literary worlds to the screen has been a rewarding experience. Particularly captivating are the adaptations of the Harry Bosch and The Lincoln Lawyer series, both finding homes with major streaming platforms. While Bosch thrives on Amazon, Netflix has successfully brought Mickey Haller and his Lincoln Lawyer universe to life. Now, with the highly anticipated release of The Lincoln Lawyer Season 3 on October 17th, the series promises to delve even deeper into the intricate world of Los Angeles crime and courtroom intrigue. Building upon the foundations laid by the previous two seasons, Season 3 elevates the complexity and layers of storytelling, drawing viewers further into Haller’s compelling journey.
Season 3 of The Lincoln Lawyer draws its narrative inspiration from “The Gods of Guilt,” the fifth novel in Connelly’s acclaimed series. The season seamlessly integrates with the events of Season 2, as the repercussions of a significant character’s death from the previous season reverberate throughout Mickey Haller’s world. This interconnectedness strongly suggests the dual greenlighting of Seasons 2 and 3, allowing for a cohesive and continuous storyline. Mickey Haller, portrayed with charismatic intensity by Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, navigates a life brimming with personal and professional challenges. He juggles the complexities of raising his teenage daughter, manages a burgeoning law practice, supports his office manager and second wife, Lorna Crane (Becki Newton), as she pursues her legal aspirations, and immerses himself in a multi-layered, demanding case linked to the character lost in Season 2. Adding another layer of intrigue is the hint of a potential new romantic interest, suggesting a season rich in both legal drama and personal evolution. Season 3 masterfully intensifies the suspense and intrigue, surpassing the already engaging narratives of the first two seasons.
Manuel Garcia-Rulfo as Mickey Haller in The Lincoln Lawyer Season 3, facing a complex legal case
Season 3 is a masterclass in juggling multiple narratives without losing focus. The intricate plot weaves together various subplots involving a rich ensemble of supporting characters. Fan favorites like Izzy (Jazz Raycole), Lorna Crane (Becki Newton), and Cisco Wojciechowski (Angus Sampson) return, further enriching the tapestry of Haller’s world. Andrea Freeman (Yaya Decosta) adds another compelling layer to the supporting cast. The season also sees the return of familiar faces such as Niel Bishop (Holt McCallany), the former LAPD Detective now working as an investigator for the DA’s office, and introduces Eddie, Mickey’s new driver, adding fresh dynamics to the mix. The writing, spearheaded by showrunner Ted Humphrey and his team, expertly adapts Connelly’s source material, arguably surpassing previous seasons in its nuanced storytelling. Even for viewers familiar with “The Gods of Guilt,” Season 3 remains utterly captivating, a testament to its compelling adaptation and execution. The season’s ability to maintain suspense, even knowing the source material, is a significant achievement.
Legal dramas thrive on tension and intricate courtroom dynamics, and The Lincoln Lawyer Season 3 delivers on all fronts. The season masterfully portrays the inherent drama of the legal system, with its inherent “ups and downs.” The central suspect grapples with the harsh realities of incarceration, while the presiding judge, though empathetic, harbors reservations about the case’s complexities. The narrative skillfully incorporates elements of missing witnesses, DEA involvement, and the shadowy world within prison walls. While courtroom dramas can sometimes veer into implausible scenarios, Connelly’s strength lies in grounding these dramatic elements in a sense of realism, making the outlandish believable. This hallmark of Connelly’s writing elevates the show above typical legal procedurals. Creating compelling courtroom drama is a delicate art, often compared to the work of luminaries like David E. Kelley. The Lincoln Lawyer Season 3 confidently positions itself among the best streaming shows in this genre, offering a sophisticated and engaging viewing experience.
Courtroom scene from The Lincoln Lawyer Season 3, highlighting the intense legal battles
Many viewers, including myself, hold a fondness for the 2011 Matthew McConaughey film adaptation of The Lincoln Lawyer. The film captured a certain “je ne sais quoi” that resonated with fans of the genre, creating initial skepticism towards the Netflix series and Manuel Garcia-Rulfo’s casting. However, over the course of three seasons, Garcia-Rulfo has demonstrably grown into the role, winning over initial doubters. While the character’s Latino heritage represents a departure from the books’ depiction, it’s a change that ultimately works within the context of the series, contributing to a more contemporary and diverse representation on screen. In an era where diversity both in front of and behind the camera is paramount, this casting choice feels both relevant and well-executed. Garcia-Rulfo, while perhaps not a household name prior to the series, embodies Mickey Haller with a compelling gravitas that solidifies his portrayal as genuinely captivating.
One of the enduring strengths shared by The Lincoln Lawyer series and Bosch is their evocative portrayal of Los Angeles. The showrunners and directors skillfully translate Connelly’s deep affection for the city onto the screen. The series frequently incorporates real Los Angeles restaurants and iconic locations, grounding the narrative in a palpable sense of place. This commitment to authentic filming locations is crucial in establishing the show’s realistic atmosphere. For viewers unfamiliar with LA, the show offers a vicarious experience of the city’s diverse landscapes and vibrant energy. Shots of Mickey’s house overlooking the sprawling cityscape, particularly at night, are visually stunning. Los Angeles itself becomes a character in the show, and the meticulous attention to detail in capturing its essence is a significant part of its appeal. The show inspires a desire to visit these locations and experience the city firsthand.
A nighttime view of Los Angeles from The Lincoln Lawyer Season 3, emphasizing the city as a character
The musical landscape of The Lincoln Lawyer further enhances its immersive quality. The score is consistently excellent, and the judicious use of licensed songs, such as Kings of Leon’s “Use Somebody,” adds emotional resonance to key scenes. The series’ theme music is undeniably catchy and jazzy, instantly recognizable and setting the tone for the show. Connelly’s characters, Harry Bosch and Mickey Haller, are known for their appreciation of classical music in the novels, and this appreciation subtly translates to the series through the filmmakers’ and directors’ choices, creating a sophisticated auditory backdrop.
The Lincoln Lawyer Season 3 seamlessly picks up the narrative threads from the previous season, immediately plunging viewers into a new case rife with complexity and depth. With each season, the writing becomes increasingly nuanced and layered, bringing Connelly’s literary world to life with greater fidelity and impact. The supporting characters are given compelling subplots that enrich the overall narrative, making them more than just ancillary figures. Central to the season’s success is Manuel Garcia-Rulfo’s performance. He has demonstrably grown into the role, overcoming initial skepticism and establishing himself as the definitive Mickey Haller for this series. For viewers deeply attached to the McConaughey film, this transition is particularly noteworthy. A dream scenario for fans would be a crossover event between The Lincoln Lawyer and Bosch universes, given their interconnectedness in the books. While that remains a wish, Season 3 stands as a fantastic installment in its own right, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating Season 4.
Mickey Haller and Lorna Crane working together in The Lincoln Lawyer Season 3, highlighting the strong character dynamics
4 ½ stars
By Dan Skip Allen
