Kaitlin Olson Is Solidly Quirky in ABC’s Sufficient Cop Drama ‘High Potential’: TV Review

As a film enthusiast who has spent countless hours binge-watching crime dramas and procedurals, I must say that “High Potential” is a refreshing addition to the genre. Kaitlin Olson‘s portrayal of Morgan, a cleaner turned LAPD consultant, brings a unique blend of quirkiness, intelligence, and fashion sense that sets her apart from other characters in this field.


Crime dramas continue to be abundant on TV, but modern networks prefer shows that offer a fresh perspective on this genre. Shows like CBS’ “Elsbeth,” NBC’s “The Irrational,” and ABC’s “Will Trent” feature consultants or detectives who approach crime scenes from unusual angles, making them stand out from typical cops. “High Potential,” airing on ABC and created by Drew Goddard, is based on the French show “Haut Potentiel Intellectuel (HPI).” The series stars Kaitlin Olson as Morgan, a professional cleaner, single mother of three, who uses her unique viewpoint and high IQ to work with the Los Angeles Police Department’s Homicide Division. Although “High Potential” doesn’t break new ground, Morgan’s oddities and the peculiar cases the team investigates might be intriguing enough to keep viewers hooked.

The story of “High Potential” unfolds during an apparently routine Los Angeles evening. Morgan steps out and catches a bus to her work, where she tidies up the homicide department’s office. Despite being engrossed in the music pulsating from her bright red headphones, an overturned evidence box and a whiteboard detailing the ongoing case catch her eye. Intrigued, she delves into the photos from the case and confidently strikes out the suspect on the board. Instead, she marks the female as the victim.

The following day, as the detectives arrive at work, they’re not pleased about their methods being scrutinized. Upon finding footage of Morgan in the office, Selena (Judy Reyes), the unit’s lieutenant, summons her for an explanation. Detective Adam Karadec (Daniel Sunjata) takes offense to Morgan’s presence and her disregard for established procedures. However, Morgan’s talent for spotting errors and rectifying them catches Selena’s eye, as well as that of detectives Daphne (Javicia Leslie) and Oz (Deniz Akdeniz). Initially hesitant and unwelcome by Karadec, Morgan nonetheless starts offering insights on various investigations, bringing to light details the police had missed or undervalued.

Despite not being particularly innovative in its choice of title, “High Potential” works just fine. Olson, who has been nominated for an Emmy for “Hacks,” and a long-term cast member on “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” delivers a compelling performance as Morgan. This character, who seems to happily march to her own rhythm, even when it annoys her eldest daughter Ava (Amirah J) and Karadec, is well portrayed by Olson. Moreover, her unique fashion style, characterized by miniskirts and towering stiletto boots, adds depth to the character. Furthermore, due to the fact that her wardrobe is completely unsuitable for navigating crime scenes, Morgan is often underestimated by those she’s trying to aid or implicate.

From a movie buff’s perspective, my personal life is equally captivating. I maintain a cordial bond with my ex-partner Ludo (Taran Killam), who happens to be the father of our two youngest offspring. Yet, my complex relationship with my adolescent daughter, Ava, and my financial struggles hint at underlying motivations for agreeing to Selena’s proposal to assist in the homicide division.

After Rob Thomas departed during summer, the role of showrunner for “High Potential” was taken over by Todd Harthan. With the genre becoming more congested, his task is to keep the show distinctive. However, Episode 3, titled “Dirty Rotten Scoundrel,” offers an intriguing twist. Initially, it seems that a man died from an overdose in a hotel bathroom and drowned accidentally. But soon, the case transforms into a multi-layered crime story involving identity theft, greed, fraud, and revenge. Furthermore, Morgan realizes that her casual approach towards rules might put her fresh team members at risk.

The show “High Potential” has its shining moments, but a lot of what it presents isn’t particularly surprising. It seems to be setting up a drawn-out will-they-won’t-they dynamic between Morgan and Karadec. Even though some episodes have unexpected twists, many of the clues are quite predictable for those who have watched network crime dramas. However, with Olson steering the ship and talented actors supporting her, the series delivers as solid, formulaic TV.

“High Potential” premieres Sept. 17 on ABC, with new episodes airing weekly on Tuesdays.

Read More

2024-09-17 16:16