As a seasoned viewer of legal dramas and someone who has gone through the painful experience of watching a family member go through a high-profile trial, I find myself deeply invested in “Presumed Innocent.” Barbara’s storyline in this episode really struck a chord with me.
Approximately midway through the season, you’ll encounter: The episode where “Presumed Innocent” introduces its key supporting character. As Rusty prepares for his murder trial, it’s high time we delve into the seemingly endless reservoir of hatred that drives Tommy Molto. Supporting characters have been a common feature in television since its inception; some of my personal favorites include Marnie and Charlie’s Central Park escapade in Lena Dunham’s “Girls” and Seinfeld’s episode where Kramer attempts to become an actor in L.A.
In the opening scene of “Pregame,” Rusty’s explosive behavior towards Brian Ratzer and subsequent explanation to Barbara continues from the previous episode. Shortly after the title sequence, Tommy is seen examining Michael’s evidence related to Carolyn’s murder, making a note of “BIKE.” Eugenia bursts into his office to object to being an early witness, but Tommy responds with rude remarks. He asks if she has ever “shared a kiss” with Rusty in a juvenile manner, then implies the need for impartiality, and finally hints at job instability, stating, “There have been many changes happening here. Nico and I highly regard loyalty.” This exchange lasts barely over one minute.
Tommy has kept a significant part of himself hidden from us until episode three, where we saw Nico publicly criticize him in a bar booth. The camera focused on Tommy from behind Nico’s shoulders, revealing only two-thirds of his face and leaving the rest in shadow. This filming technique suggested to me that it wasn’t crucial for us to understand how Tommy was taking Nico’s criticism, but rather that he could endure it. Prosecutor Tommy puts up with a great deal of harassment from Nico, despite his short temper. In contrast, in the novel “Presumed Innocent,” Turrow portrays Rusty and Raymond’s relationship as a “fading romance.” After getting divorced and losing an election he shouldn’t have contested, Raymond becomes more insular, leading to growing resentment from Rusty. However, it seems the writers of “Presumed Innocent” have switched this dynamic: Tommy is continuously belittled and scolded by Nico, who treats him as a mere pawn. Does my sympathy for Tommy begin to grow?
I recall the moment at work when my mind drifts back to Carolyn. Our past encounters have remained hidden from the readers until now. In this recollection, Carolyn’s demeanor towards me is evidently dismissive, a tactic often employed by influential women towards less powerful men. As I relive our interaction, I challenge her: I’ve heard she prefers working with Rusty over me, and I’m curious to know the reason. In my mind, I interrogate her like a detective seeking answers. Carolyn justifies her preference based on his previous position as chief deputy, which seemed more advantageous for her professional growth. I wear an expression of humiliation, similar to how one might feel upon recalling a night of overindulgence and regrettable conversations at the bar. It’s a mortifying reminder of the power dynamic that existed between us.
Nico interrupts the recollections of the man, trusting Tommy’s assessment of Reynolds being a dead-end. However, this concession from Nico doesn’t last long. In front of the media, Tommy passionately criticizes the rampant corruption and lack of accountability in both the city and country, mentioning various individuals and institutions like Rusty, Big Pharma, and Wall Street. This is the first wise thing Tommy has ever done, but Nico disapproves. He rebukes Tommy for being uncooperative and hasty while he paces around him. The criticism itself feels belittling: “Tommy, wasn’t that helpful for us?”
After a long time, Tommy asserts himself against Nico. He makes clear that he won’t endure suspicion any longer, although he struggles to explain why he’s been under suspicion by many in the office. He places the blame on Nico: How can others have faith or regard him highly if the district attorney does not? Tommy is near tears as he insists, “I’m the good guy here,” and argues that for a conviction, he needs to persuade the jury that “something is true because Tommy Molto says it’s true.”
Sarsgaard delivers a remarkable scene, my favorite from the show thus far. The humiliation he endures leaves a profound impact – we see his struggle, even if he does not. Tommy yearns for respect but is immature and unable to help it. His name, Tommy, adds to his lack of dignity in the eyes of others. While it’s possible for a Tommy to be powerful, such as a mobster, the name seems mismatched given his inability to intimidate or convey irony effectively. Instead, when Tommy tries to intimidate or be ironic, he only comes off as petulant and unsettling – the kind of pitiful, slippery behavior that pushes people like Carolyn to minimize their contact with him.
In relation to respect, mastery of self, and powerful personalities, Barbara’s character becomes clearer in “Pregame.” Once more, she finds herself at the bar, longing for a glimpse of Clifton, whom I could refer to as his true name, Clifton. She contacts him when he fails to show up, but her mind momentarily drifts back to Rusty, clouding her judgement. However, Clifton encourages her with the words, “you only regret the choices you don’t make.” And so, Barbara prepares herself for their meeting. The setting is bathed in red light as she navigates through Clifton’s artwork. Their interaction is filled with playful banter – Barbara expresses how his art makes her feel “safe.” Clifton shows respect and consideration by offering Barbara the initiative if she desires, making her uncomfortable situation a non-issue. They share a tender kiss. It’s no surprise that Clifton holds such allure for Barbara; in the world of “Presumed Innocent,” he is a rare breed: a thoughtful gentleman.
When Barbara confesses to Dr. Rush about the kiss she kept hidden, she is scolded for not disclosing it earlier. It’s perplexing, isn’t it, with that woman? At first, Barbara tries to dismiss Dr. Rush’s inquiries regarding her silence, but ultimately, she reveals her true feelings. She was not ashamed of the desire and relief she experienced. Furthermore, she believed Jaden would approve of her encounter with Clifton. Moreover, she feels criticized by her daughter for staying in a marriage with an unfaithful and deceitful husband. This revelation deeply moved me. Ruth Negga portrays this scene brilliantly; her tone remains composed until she utters the word “judgment,” after which her voice cracks suddenly. I find myself connecting more to Barbara now, having previously sympathized with her situation intellectually rather than emotionally. Her anger and resentment were apparent, but now, she comes across as a genuine character with her own motivations, desires, and emotions, making the show even better.
As a movie lover and from my perspective in this scene, Rusty attempts to present a respectable image during the family’s breakfast for just a minute. However, he makes numerous questionable decisions throughout the episode. He nearly burglarizes Ratzer’s house before getting caught by him personally. Convinced to let Ratzer speak with his legal team, Rusty fails to persuade Raymond and Mya of Reynolds being a suspect due to his past actions. When Ratzer arrives, he denies any connection to Reynolds, leaving the interview fruitless. Furthermore, Rusty discovers Kyle’s bicycle in the trash and takes it without informing Raymond or Mya, which seems ill-advised considering the prosecution has images of Kyle. If he intends to conceal potential evidence, perhaps Rusty should share his findings with his team instead.
Raymond exhibits a mix of apprehension and determination regarding the upcoming trial. He values Barbara’s testimony for Rusty’s case and intends to request her presence, disregarding any objections. The eve of the trial day brings sleepless nights for everyone. The Sabiches clasp hands in the car, offering each other support. Tommy delivers an eloquent opening statement, acknowledging his nickname and its origin, but I remain skeptical. His arguments hold weight through powerful oratory. He appeals to the jury’s sense of justice and duty, questioning the significance of truth in the pursuit of justice.
Addendum
Raymond’s sleep is still disrupted by terrifying nightmares; in the latest instance, he imagines his head suddenly bursting open and his brain scattering around. Contrarily, Lorraine remains firmly convinced that Rusty is responsible.
Rusty changed his at-home workout from swimming to running on the treadmill, which Barbara mentioned as a possibility for “blowing off steam” to Jaden. The reason behind the change isn’t clear, but it might be due to avoiding unwanted attention from the media and potential adversaries during the trial preparation period.
Although Kyle is the child who played a bigger role in the trial’s incidents, Jaden receives more attention in the film. She expresses concern about Rusty’s potential guilt but ultimately chooses to give him the advantage of doubt. I find her difficulty in accepting the truth about her father particularly touching.
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2024-07-22 18:32