My wife and I enjoyed episode 1 last night and we will continue to watch this series. It was well shot and acted, but far from perfect. I, too, see some Clint Eastwood in the lead character. He sounds and squints like Clint.
This is my take away (spoilers ahead):
1. The guy does not have to be 100% totally ripped. He would have to be in the gym 4 hours a day to look like that. It is not believable.
2. The police work is horrible. They arrest him for murder because he is tall and then put him in prison without formally charging him. Either of these things would result in a huge lawsuit. The lead investigator would never seek Reacher's help with a murder investigation. Zip tie cuffs are rarely uses and people are rarely cuffed in the front. Add to that the whole "local cops are idiots" trope. Its lazy writing.
3. Reacher is a better fighter than Muhammed Ali.
3. Reacher's specific conclusions with very little information. For example his conclusions about the detective. No one would assume the guy was quiting smoking or was separated given the information. A good investigator does not jump to conclusions but rather seeks more information and considers all options.
4. The bullying. We get the guy is tall. Does he have to belly bump people repeatedly? If we are supposed to respect the man for his other (superhuman) qualities, they why would he need to resort to flexing?
5. Mike Hammer and Jack Ryan were interesting because they were flawed and relatable. They were never presented as perfect and you could root for them. This main character was too much of a Superman; the best at everything he does.
Sorry for the rant. We did like the show, but wish it was more realistic.
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