Lowdown on Michael Emerson’s new show: Person of Interest
What it’s about: The story centers on the relationship between Reese and Finch, a pair of men with mysterious pasts who team up to try to prevent crimes before they happen. Finch (Emerson) has developed a system that provides the social security numbers of Manhattan residents who are about to involved in a dangerous crime. Reese (Jim Cavaziel) is a military man-turned-bum whose brain and brawn help Finch protect the innocent.
Where it works: Emerson is excellent as always, and his relationship with broody Cavaziel makes for a fun, geeky, odd couple of sorts. Though both guys are loners, the few hints we get at their past lives and loved ones could make for an interesting undercurrent to the weekly cases.
Where it doesn’t: The pilot lays on some of the themes pretty thick: the dialogue is painful at times and some of the heavier action scenes feel forced in for dramatic effect. I found myself wanting more character development and sci-fi and less run-of-the-mill sleuthing.