TV Review of “War”
If you’re searching for a successor to “The Good Wife” and “The Good Fight,” consider tuning into “War,” a new British legal drama by George Kay (“Lupin,” “Hijack”) premiering on HBO Max on October 1. This eight-episode series delves into a contentious divorce battle between tech billionaire Morgan Henderson (Dominic West) and actress Carla Duval (Sienna Miller).
The show is filled with dramatic legal maneuvering and deliciously British wit, featuring quirky character names like Prudence and Budgie, who refer to each other in court as “my learned friend.” The casting of Archie Panjabi as Prudence may resonate with fans of “The Good Wife,” stirring nostalgia for her interactions with Josh Charles.
At its core, “War” showcases the escalating tension in a high-profile divorce, with Morgan and Carla each enlisting an elite London law firm. Morgan’s firm, led by the pompous St. John Smallwood (Pip Torrens), presents itself as the poshest option available, while Carla’s team, Taylor & Byrne, includes a pregnant partner, adding an unexpected layer to the narrative.
The drama escalates quickly, with characters like Johnny Warren (Archie Renaux) embodying questionable ethics in the pursuit of victory. The dark, moody law offices and the wealthy lifestyles of the characters contrast sharply with the intense legal battles being waged.
While the overarching narrative may seem resolved by the end of the first season, a second season is already planned, promising a new legal conflict with a fresh cast. However, some viewers may find themselves ready to move on from Morgan and Carla’s story by the finale, despite the engaging performances from the supporting cast.
Overall, the appeal of “War” lies in its lush atmosphere and the intriguing dynamics between the characters, particularly the formidable lawyers like St. John and Panjabi’s Prudence. As the story closes on season one, one can’t help but wish for more and appreciate the clever commentary on the nature of legal battles encapsulated in the line, “The last thing any client wants is for their lawyers to be reasonable.”
