By Mike McCarthy
Lethal Weapon is the first of several shows being remade this year and it is exactly what you think it would be. Lethal Weapon is action packed with comedy and some off the wall craziness that makes Lethal Weapon just like the films. For all of you millennials that haven’t seen the Lethal Weapon films, get off your asses and watch them.
Clayne Crawford takes the role of Martin Riggs, the former SEAL who is borderline suicidal and new to the LA Police Force. The older and wiser Roger Murtaugh is played by Damon Wayans. Wayans has been around for 3 decades, going back to In Living Color. The comedic chemistry between Crawford and Wayans is noticeable on screen and reminds us of the films. Riggs is on the edge after losing his wife while she is pregnant with their first child. Murtaugh goes back to the force after having a heart attack while his third child is being born. Murtaugh has been with the police department for 20+ years and doesn’t want a new partner. There are definitely a good amount of similarities between the films and the show.
A big part of the cast in Lethal Weapon has always been the psychiatrist and the show is no different. Jordana Brewster stars as Dr. Maureen Cahill who will be the pseudo voice of reason between the two detectives. The PD Captain has also been a staple in all of the films and once again it is a predictable addition to the cast. Kevin Rahm is Captain Avery Brooks, who was also Murtaugh’s previous partner. The longer the shows goes on, the amount of similarities between the two will become more apparent.
With so many shows and films being remade nowadays, trying to differentiate them from their predecessors can be difficult. Lethal Weapon being the first of three shows ( MacGyver, Training Day) to be remade, it will try and set itself above the rest. There are a few classic scenes that we certainly hope they decide to remake. If the dislocated shoulder and the bomb on the toilet scenes occur, we will be excited, but only if done right. You will definitely want to check out this show on Fox, Wednesday nights at 8 PM