Leverage Redemption Review - A Solid Return...With Asterisks
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- čas přidán 29. 06. 2021
- IMDBtv and Amazon Studios have brought back Leverage with the revival series Leverage Redemption. In this new iteration, and new world, the Leverage crew have watched as the rich and powerful continue to take what they want without consequence. Grifter Sophie Devereaux (Gina Bellman), thief Parker (Beth Riesgraf), hitter Eliot Spencer (Christian Kane), and hacker Alec Hardison (Aldis Hodge) have watched the world change over the last eight years. Since their last job, it’s become easier-and sometimes legal-for the rich to become richer and the powerful to squash anyone who gets in their way. To address the changes in the world around them, the team finds new blood in Harry Wilson (Noah Wyle), a corporate lawyer who is looking for redemption after realizing he’d been sitting on the wrong side of the table for his entire career, and Breanna Casey (Aleyse Shannon), Hardison’s foster sister who has a knack for computers, robotics, and getting into trouble.
This review was made possibly thanks to a screener copy from Amazon Studios and IMDBtv. Footage was provided to be used for this review and is an example of FAIR USE!
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After watching the new series, I found this review to be kinda inaccurate and setting people up to have low expectations. How they handled Nate's absence was not surprising at all and pretty much the only logical way it could have been handled. And the series is clearly meant to be some kind of cathartic experience or closure for Sophie. And she clearly says that she knows they are just allowing her to be in charge for that reason. So I don't think Parker's leadership role is forgotten at all.
The only part of the review that matched the series was the take on Hardison's absence from the show. You are right, the first two episodes with him in it are the only ones that feel like original Leverage.
The low expectations this review set me up for actually increased my enjoyment of the show. It's not the original Leverage, more than just because the cast has changed. The plots are a lot more simplistic than the original, but with Sophie as the leader it also feels less paternalistic and condescending than the original sometimes felt. It also has a more upbeat tone than the original.
Overall the new series is well done. It feels just enough like the original while clearly demonstrating that it is a NEW show.
I actually agree with your assessment as well. I've seen the first two episodes before this and the explanation for Nate being gone make absolute sense. The only thing that we don't know is the exact reason for his absence, however in real world basis (which this show strives for) is absolutely on the money.
I also think Sophie's reaction to that absence makes sense. What the reviewer doesn't mention that the first episode starts as a flashback and then goes to a year after Nate's absence, which PERFECTLY explains why he's not there.
I would honestly rather have this explanation than what other shows do and it keeps the character as is without a recast. The only thing I'm currently worried about is a love interest scenerario between Sophie and Harry.
I would absolutely HATE that, I don't care how much spark between the characters there is (which is none). Not every show has to have a romance and I'd rather we focused more on Parker/Hardison than anything else.
@@BassBeat66 the only way I would find Nate's absence acceptable is if he died. There used to be such a thing as innocent until proven guilty and the rule of law. I miss those days.
@@kimberlywiederhold627 He did die, that was how they explained his absence in the show, they literally go to his grave in the first episode.
@@kimberlywiederhold627 IDK why everyone talks around what exactly happens to Nate, we see stone-solid evidence of what it was in the first few minutes of the first episode. BUT SPOILER.
He's dead. We see his gravestone. Sophie clearly not taking it well still reaching for him in her sleep a year later... Which, as people said, is both fairly realistic (considering his age, his drink problem and everything else.) and about the only way to handle him being absent.
I just want to say that aldis aged like fine wine, he went from little brother to Sir with a capital S
Yes, he has! Dude is a total hunk now. He has busted his ass in the gym and it really shows.
Yes..he's looking so delicious 😋..lol
@@NaterTot He had to get super hero fit for his movie with the Rock: Black Adam. He's playing Hawkman.
@@Tyfreaky13 Yep! I mentioned this in my previous reviews! :)
@@Tyfreaky13 ... and he will be leading the cast in a TV mini series about the James Patterson character , Alex Cross, later this year (2024). He is a pretty good actor and seems to come from a talented family as his brother Edwin Hodge stars in FBI Most Wanted.
I wanted to hate the show because of no Nate, but was curious about this one. No bones about it, the magic is back and the way they matured has flawless. I've only seen the first 2 episodes, but you can tell Sophie is the broken one this time and she's using the job to work through it.
Should I watch something else before this show, or this is an independent series?!
@@radwaesmaeel5944 Watch the original leverage.
@@10INCHCRUSHER thank you so much
I love how Casey didn’t just feel like a Hardison replacement, but also feels a bit like the old Parker in certain ways. I also love how Parker is now her teacher in the same way that Sophie was for her too.
Leverage is back baby!! While I do miss Nate… I am loving Noah Wylie!!
And Breanna!
Welcome back team…welcome back!😊👍
I miss Nate, but I can see why they wrote out his character in the way they did. Anything besides him dying would have seemed like they were trying to replace him, I'm impressed on how they integrated it into the story and character development.
Wish there was more Hardison, but his lil adopted sister was a decent substitute. Would be cool to see his character develop in real time dealing with his foster sister being in danger on jobs.
Hope they get some recurring characters back to
I wanna see Tara Cole played by Jeri Ryan return...she took Sophie's place in season 2
@@vangohsears I loved her as Tara. One thing Mr. Devlin has a true gift for is when our beloved characters can’t be there for filming, he knows how to find the perfect “someone” to stand in so that it doesn’t hurt so much that the original character isn’t there. He did it with Tara and he did it with “our Mr. Wilson” and he did it with Breanna.
Were getting more episodes in October so i'd expect well more of everything let's be honest launch is usually the rockest part as they have to explain what has already happened I'd love for them to reference the list from the series finale at some point though
Sterling. He maybe started as a Nate rival, but he became more then that later on. The whole crew has a connection with this guy now. Sophie and Eliot especialy. It's a put we cant hear him say ''Hallo Nate'' But a ''hello spencer'' and Eliot going funny balistic would still make my day. Also Sterling being all ''nate was the best of you'' could still tie him the new seasons without forgetting or ignoring his ties to Nate. Sterling could have mourned him in his own right, and miss him in his own way.
I watched the first two episodes Thursday and they reminded me of the original series. I did not miss Nate at all.
They way they explained Nate’s absence is one of the most logical and expected ways to handle it. Gina Bellman delivered a great performance.
I started the third episode. I loved the creators for showing how important Hardison really was and is. The team always took him for granted. In today’s world, a lot of the new age people still don’t give us old geeks credit. Big ups to the Dean Devlin and team. Alec will always be my favorite.
I am looking forward to the other episodes. Hopefully, Hardison will be there for the others. Either way, I still will watch the other episodes of Leverage: Redemption.
I'm starting the 3rd episode. I'm hoping they make Sophie broken like Nate was. They all have a part of Nate in him. This one was well thought out.
I agree with your post, really like the new stuff; except I REALLY miss Nate. Loved him and could relate to his alcoholic relationship to the show.
It seems that they get rid of Hardison & then Elliott in the nxt coming eps 3-7..
#metooing all the guys
SJWing the show to the "girls"
🙄
Another once GREAT show
go's down..down..down😌
I got to watch the remaining 3-7 episodes Friday. Hardison is absent (I think because he is on City on a Hill. Which is also a good show but totally different tone from Leverage because the catalyst for the show and Aldis’s character were based on historical events.). He is also working on a film with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. I hope he is back for the episodes in 2022. Aldis is one of my favorite actors in general. Alec is one of my favorite 2 characters from leverage.
I think Christian Kane was only absent for one episode. The creators did remove the guys from 2 of the original Leverage episodes (The Girl’s Night Out Job and The Broken Wing Job). Christian Kane’s character Elliot other favorite Leverage character for me.
Overall, I thought the show was an 8 out of 10. It definitely was not the same show but it still was great. The best reboot, re-imagination, continuation and next chapter I have seen to date. I am here for it.
Don't they explain pretty much right away that Nate died, I'm not sure why he is confused why Nate is missing.
Parker does run several teams overseas so her not being the mastermind for the original team isn't a huge issue. The two new additions are fun and also show growth especially harry as he shows his personal feelings more.
I love Dean Devlin's work and I love the fact that he never forgets his people. You'll always find some of the same cast and crew in anything he works on
This. Usually a good sign of a reputable producer or director. You see it with Nolan, Scorsese and others. Devlin is no different!
I think Dean Devlin is a Doctor Who fan because in episode 6 Breanna gives her fake name as Billie Potts a companion from season 10 of Doctor Who.
I’m rewatching the series and there are a lot of Doctor Who Easter Eggs.
@@cyarnell91 always. For me, it's a leverage tradition at this point. Even the new one has a couple of Easter eggs. Originally, Harry was even going to be called Harry Sullivan
Love the comeback show. Just miss Hitter & Hacker's back & forth banter, my favorite parts of the old Leverage. I binge watched all episodes & found myself craving more. Yes, there are 2 replacements, but they're good at their craft & it's just enough fresh to keep it going for me. One more gone would have blown it.
I mostly just want Hardison and Parker to still be together. Their relationship was one of the best things about the show, especially in season 5. If the show says that they've broken up I'll be devastated. I think that would be the only reason I'd stop watching the revival before even giving the first season a chance.
No worries! They are TOGETHER TOGETHER
@@MFStarr WOOOOOOOO
@Jax Teller I’m not watching only for a certain ship. I’m gonna watch because I love all the characters and the wacky stories. But that doesn’t mean that the show without Parker and Hardison being together would be very hard to watch. People watch different shows for all sorts of reasons. I’m sure there are plenty of people who would watch it despite them not being together and people who agree with me. The only “dumb” thing is disrespecting a person’s opinion when it doesn’t hurt you at all.
Hardison is gone after episode 2.
@@rp7326 gone, but they're most definitely still together.
I just want Hardison back!!! He really made the first 2 episodes 😭😳but I still LOVE THIS SHOW
Sucks that aldis hodge is only in a few episodes. Hardison is my favorite character. But i understand he's probably been the busiest cast member since leverage ended and has been blowing up. But now im curious to see the explanation of why nate is gone to see if its that bad. I hope its not as disappointing as it seems
Yep. Hodge has really made himself a known name and I can't be happier for him. As for the whole Nate thing, it is entirely expected, but what they do sucks. The writing, tone and direction in the first ten minutes are so incredibly off.
@@NaterTot Coming back to this now, at the end of the first season and well into the second...I actually couldn't disagree more. Leverage' first run was absolutely mostly Nate's story, but Redemption has really been Sophie's. I wasn't sure about the decision at first, but looking back on it now I really think it was a choice that paid off. We've seen a lot of growth, and investment in Sophie's development, and the way the crew, new and old have kinda rallied around her.
So honestly, yeah, it was a gamble, made based on factors the series couldn't control, but I think it's really been turned to the series' advantage. I think it'd be more accurate to say that the 'Redemption' in the title has been as much in reference to Sophie, as to Harry Wilson.
@@Blisterdude123 Couldn't have said it better
To be fair Aldis was supposed to be in more episodes but covid delays caused filming conflicts with his other projects. He wants to be back more if there's a season 2.
I hope so because I missed him being on the show this season. I still want the foster sister to stay because she fits in just fine. That being said, Hardison still needs to be on the team.
His sister isn't helping the case for a season 2. They need Hardison back full-time
Aldis is in five of the next eight episodes coming in the Fall so he's not out of the picture completely.
Why are Jacob Stone and Flynn Carsen there? Is this an undercover artifact retrieval? And how did they manage to keep this mission secret? Because I don't see Ezekiel Jones but, to be fair, he could be pilfering whatever artifact they're there for.
I love Leverage, though. Just being silly because God I miss The Librarians.
Well since parker shows up in librarians I'm hoping Cassandra and or Ezekiel show up in leverage.
It's such a shame that Hutton isn't returning. Nate was my favorite character from leverage and I think he was played well. I liked his character's motivation and drive to be a modern day Robin hood.
Well, given the accusations against Hutton, would you really want him to return? Would you be able to watch Leverage, love the show and character in the same way? I know I wouldn't. I'm glad they did things the way they did. It's for the better.
@@monikaklimczak9828 Accusations are not facts
@@monikaklimczak9828 The Actor isnt the character and people should be innocent until proven guilty.
@@rootcause7662 That isn't how media and entertainment work. Sometimes actors aren't worth the baggage they carry, regardless of what one might think of them personally.
Loved the original Leverage and nothing can live up to that standard. Seeing the old crew together, albeit without Nate, is nice. Worth watching and better than lots of other stuff.
Leverage is tied with chuck for my favorite series ever so when I heard of the reboot I was initially excited but I feel like I will be disappointed since Hardison and Nate aren't really part of the crew anymore. Hardison was and still is my favorite character from the show and despite Nate's drawn out backstory about his son, he was integral to the team's on-screen chemistry. While I love that the series is getting more attention, I don't think it was ever going to be possible to recreate the charm of the original this many years later even if all of the original cast members were present.
Well fans should just be GRATEFUL for its return unless it truly bombs. Roll with change and enjoy it!!!! Big fan.
I agree. I watched all the released episodes and frankly I’m annoyed by this reviewer telling fans what to think of them. I didn’t have any issues with what he got hung up on. The show made it clear that Parker still was in charge of several crews, and that this was an attempt to get Sophie out of her grief imposed isolation. This review really sounds like a case of “I can’t truly enjoy it because it’s not what I wanted”, instead of appreciating it on its own merits.
That doesnt mean it's good.
Even though it was a bummer, I was actually okay with Nathan being gone but now that the explanation could possibly piss me off, I’m a little scared now. Looking forward to seeing the new characters though. I’m always going to support Leverage. I didn’t discover it until long after it had gone off air and it’s quickly become one of my faves. Seen every episode a million times.
I think the explanation could have worked better if it was executed better. The first ten minutes of the episode feels extremely jarring. It doesn't really feel like Leverage. It honestly feels like you hopped into a show, midseason and are getting a brief summary of what happened. I was watching and was like, "wait, what...who, wait why? I'm so lost."
I hope you enjoy it regardless!
I think the explanation worked. And while Timothy Hutton isn’t around, the shadow of Nate Ford appears when it needs to. Episode 8 is where it’s laid to rest.
I am so happy to have the crew back (for the most part.) They are fun entertainment and I am looking forward to future episodes.
Love the orginal, beyond happy for leverage redemption.
Parker stepped aside to let Sophie be the Mastermind because 1) Sophie was always the "mom" of the team and 2) (this one is the most important one) "giving Sophie the reins" it getting her out of her funk and getting her blood flowing again (as it were).
I guess as long as there is some fun to be had with the show it is still work checking out.
Super bummed about some of the choices they made.
But thanks as always the video Tot!
Turned out great!
This shows biggest selling point was the chemistry between the characters. Adding new characters is okay but not having the original crew in full! I just can’t think of it as Leverage anymore.
I follow this show on every streaming platform. Was beyond thrilled when I saw a preview on IMDB about Redemption. Aldis is booked so I didn't think he'd be on the reboot. Guess I'll have be excited for the 2 episodes.
At first it was sad that Timothy Hutton couldn't be involved, but I understood why and was heart broken to see that they had to kill his character (still understandable, but still sad), but I saw that he's legal troubles have been delt with and I'm hopeful that he'll come back to the series, I know I know, his character is dead........ or is he? In the first episode we see Nate's home office so maybe despite walking away he was still keeping an eye on things and came across something really big, big enough to fake his death to protect everyone else so he could countiue investigating without putting others in harms way.
I have to say I like the way they handled Nate's absence. There aren't a lot of options for explaining his absense, and most of them would have either raised questions or caused problems with the story. SPOILER:
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Basically you have 4 options - divorce, arrest, personal solo mission, or death. Divorce would harm his legacy. Arrest and personal mission would have begged the question why the team didn't help him out. The only way to explain it that gives him a satisfying conclusion is his death. It explains why he's not there, and also why Sophie is back in the game. I also like that they don't dwell on it. Maybe they could have given Sophie more time to grieve (only watched the first episode, so it might get better), but it works. Just drop us into the story and don't give us time to miss him.
I hope you all enjoy the review. I'm sure some will probably enjoy the show a bit more than I did, but overall I did enjoy it. I just think there was elements that could have been handled a bit better. I can't wait to hear what everyone thinks!
Do you think those problems could be fixed if it gets a season 2
I am only on episode 3… but I am enjoying it. Episode 1 seemed liked they were getting back in sync… episode 2 I really enjoyed. Look forward to watching the rest of the season.
I enjoyed the first two episodes, but started checking out after that. The appeal of the original is that they were a team of criminal masterminds - the best in the world at what they did. With Redemption, you're getting three masterminds and two newbies who are just learning the ropes. I also felt Episodes 5 and 6 were a little too goofy for my liking. The original Leverage had comedic moments, but Ep5-6 in Redemption started feeling more like Scooby-Doo.
Thanks for this review. And answering the questions. Sad that the Nate explanation is not satisfying. Hopefully they are releasing the episodes in 2 batches, so that they can gauge the audience reactions and make adjustments in the second half accordingly.
Nate's explanation is probably the worst part of the show, in all honesty. Beyond that everything is at least solid.
@@NaterTot how do they explain him being absent or would it be a spoiler to say?
@Jax Teller well I expected that, it was obviously going to happen this way, I had just wanted his death to be what brought the team back together so that they could avenge him, because he would have been killed by a mark from the past, like Damien, whom they imprisoned for "no reason", since he hadn't targeted any of them personally or any particular client, for that matter. But it looks like, at this point, when they reunite, he's been dead for a while, so I suppose his death wasn't anything as interesting as that.
As someone whose favourite character is Nate, this reboot feels like someone tried to put a puzzle together with several missing pieces and tried to pass it off as complete. Just doesn’t feel right.
Parker is still Parker. 20 lbs of crazy. Also Hardison and Eliot interactions are to die for.
Every time I see that guy from ER and the librarians he makes me miss Librarians even more
Noah Wylie
I love these characters but I'm not sure if I want it without Nate to be honest.
I hope this show never goes away
Me too!
Love it!
Already watching it for the 2nd time!
I loved this, it had just the right amount of nostalgia with such a strong overarching story. Wilson really hates himself for the things he's done for really scummy people and like elliot he feels like he'll never be clean of that so im really looking forward to were this story of redemption will take us in the second half.
What a great review! Hit all the points without giving too much away. Well done! 👏👏👏
Knew Tim Hutton (love Nate Ford!) unfortunately couldn't be involved at this point but it's great to see the gang back in action and Noah Wiley seems a good fit. Great cast & great writers! Glad they're (mostly) back. Love it!!
We named our tiny, cute little stray kitty after Parker. That girl will effortlessly leap on top of a cluttered bookcase without disturbing a single thing! And the cat does too! 🙆♀️😄
FINALLY bringing it back!!! LOVE this show!!1 Although it will NOT be the same without Nate!!! But we'll see...
I wish they'd have put up the Nathan Ford ancestor painting or at least showed it.
I also disliked the absence of Hardison.
His foster sis is a fun addition.
Wiley bugs me and was the sore point for me throughout.
If they ditch Wiley for season 2, it will be great!!
Thank goodness it's back! 😄
Amen, Kevin! I'm excited! :)
Thanks a lot for this review! The original was and is one of my favorite shows ever, and I was hesitant about this version of it, something seemed off/forced in the trailer. Glad to hear it’s got solid bones, though, and I’ll definitely be checking it out now.
Thanks for the update.
Of course! :)
It was terrible that they killed off Nate who was the one that started this in the first place. None of these people would know each other without him. None of them would have decided to work together without him. It's like leaving out Ray from The Ghostbusters.
Sup Tot. Thanks for reviewing this. I will take your Asterisks with acknowledgment, but hopefully, I can enjoy this series return and new members.
I think you will. Make no mistake, I still really enjoyed it! :)
I am a huge fan of Leverage. I’ve watched it many, many times and have even listened to the Director’s Commentary on every episode. When I heard about the revival, I just didn’t care. I thought the show ended perfectly and I didn’t want to mess with that.
After watching the review, I mostly feel the same. On one hand, it sounds like the revival won’t somehow retroactively ruin the show for me. On the other, I just don’t see anything here that makes me excited to jump in and keep watching the new eps. Personally I would just ignore the show wishing everyone who does decide to check it out the best. Unfortunately I have a very good friend who is super excited about the revival and he wants me to watch it with him. So I’ll at least be checking it out. 🤷♀️
I very much enjoyed the original Leverage and was sad that they were forced to write off Nate Ford… but I case anyone is unaware of the allegations against Timothy Hutton… “In 2020, Timothy Hutton was accused of raping 14-year-old child actress Sera Johnston in 1983. After Johnston’s accusation was made public, Hutton’s then-current project Almost Family was canceled after one season. Leverage: Redemption was able to move forward with the rest of its ensemble cast, but due to the gravity of the allegations, Nate Ford will not appear again.” I would not have watched Redemption if he had been included and am very happy that they decided to continue with the show!
screenrant.com/leverage-redemption-reboot-no-timothy-hutton-reason/amp/
Wooo! Made it just in time!! Edit: actually I am late but I am here!!
Tbh I loved it and felt like it was set up well and I don't really miss Nate.
I have not seen anywhere after episode 2, but the first two episodes were an amazing start! I love our Mr Wilson's character! The original will no doubt have a hard time being overtaken, but it doesn't need to be yet. The two new characters definitely still need to work themselves into the crew, but as you'll no doubt remember, the first season of Leverage was just that: The family getting to actually *be* a family.
Episode 4 - Kimbo, you're greatness. We love you!
It's amazing how they all still look great
I really enjoyed the show. I didn’t know it had come back. Whereas you went in with high expectations I had low expectations so I was uplifted and you were down lifted (boy is that the wrong word).
I can understand why Sophie is the actual master mind. It is bc she was nate’s Sophie she knew him best meaning she would actually know how Nate would think and plan everything.
I agree. I don't see how Parker loses out on being a mastermind when she basically put Sophie in charge. Parkers mission was to help Sophie by letting Sophie work through her grief of losing Nate, and still being able to do what Nate and she loved doing. Sophie may now be "out" of the game but thinking about the game won't slowly kill her.
Wow. This review is great. I'm even more excited to watch it now.
That's great to hear! Make sure you come back and let me know what you think! :)
@@NaterTot how’d you even watch it?! I have IMDBTV on Amazon but all that shows up is their final trailer. No episode. Did u get an early release copy??
@@NaterTot I loved the show for the most part. My biggest critique is I really disliked the episode about the fake haunted house. It just didn't fit the vibe of any Leverage episode ever except maybe the one about the dream from the original season, but I didn't like that episode either and have only watch it once despite having watched all of the other Leverage episodes multiple times.
Another critique is that the endings of the new episodes don't feel as complete as the old ones. The wrap up in a way that doesn't feel as resolved for some reason as the old episodes do. This was especially the case on the episode about the building falling, and with that episode, the way it was written, the male antagonist came across more like a victim to feel sorry for than the "bad guy," so imo their were some issues with mixed messaging on that episode.
As for what I liked, the overall vibe of the characters' relationships with each felt in tact and reminiscent of the older episodes which I loved as their connections are my primary reason for loving this show so much. I also loved how well the new characters fit in. I've watch The Librarian films and show, so Noah Wyle coming in to replace Timothy Hutton is a plus for me. I also liked how they wrapped up Hutton's character. I was familiar with the accusations against him already and knew going in they would likely vaguely kill him off, so the explanation we got was enough for me.
I was actually happy with the amount of Hardison we got in the show because I actually expected for him to be in it for much less than he was given his schedule and the fact that his career has sky-rocketed beyond Leverage. I expected him to maybe be in the pilot with a few cameos here or there maybe, so him fully being in 2 or 3 episodes iirc was a pleasant surprise for me. Also, they talked about him so much that it lessened how much I missed him.
My favorite episode of the reboot is the one about the hacker because it reminded me a bit about the epsiode from the original series when Parker, Hardison, and Eliot were in DC chasing the virus which is one of my top favorite original episodes.
Parker still runs all 12 Leverage International with Hardison. As for the main Leverage team Sophie will be the mastermind. I also agree with what they did to Nate was wrong.
I love the old and the new shows. Back , I glad.
I am totally fine with this. Leverage is my favorite episodic series of all times (Criminal Minds is a somewhat close second), and if it plays out as advertised, the positives will far outweigh the negatives. Great review!!
I think you'll enjoy it. Thanks for supporting TNT and I'm glad you enjoyed the review. Check out some of my other content! :)
I like it! I miss Nate, but understand the way they went with it. I like the new youngen. I am enjoying visiting with the team again!
I've been a Leverage fan for almost 10 years now so I was super excited about the reboot and on the whole wasn't disappointed. I do agree with several of these points, especially that Parker's role as the Mastermind has been largely set aside which I think is too bad. I don't have a problem with Sophie taking on the role and getting some character growth there, but it would be nice to see more of them working together as a kind of co-mastermind team. I also agree that losing Hardison and the dynamic he adds was definitely to the show's detriment. I knew going in though that he wasn't going to be in most of the show because of Aldis Hodge's other acting commitments, which in my opinion is the best reason for him to not be there. I liked too that they used it to further his character growth! This situation reminds me of the way they wrote Sophie out of much of season 2 because of Gina Bellman's pregnancy. Obviously we miss having the character in the show, but it's happening because of something with the real life actor which the showrunners are respecting. I think they handled this similarly well as its set as a good thing for his character and in a way that would make it easy for him to slip in and out flexibly as Aldis' schedule (hopefully) permits.
The effect the actors real lives have on the show is true for Nate's absence as well because of the allegations against Hutton. I agree that it would have been nice to know more about what happened and that the dialogue surrounding it was somewhat stilted, but it was a valid reason not to include him in the show, and they may circle back to the mystery of what happened to him later in the season. I didn't find myself missing Nate very much, certainly not as much as I missed Hardison from episode 3 on. Honestly, I think it was okay to have that chapter end and let them move forward, but I was also never as attached to Nate as I was to the rest of the crew so maybe it's just because of that.
There are definitely parts of the script that were written pretty awkwardly, and not all of the plots hold together all that well (looking at you, Paranormal Hacktivity - although I did like the reprise of the Girls Night Out and Broken Wing Jobs). For the most part I think it keeps the same kind of goofy charm that we had in the original show, and I was also glad it didn't take itself too seriously. I would like to see more in-between moments with the characters though, as that's when they're really able to shine and give the show some depth. We got more of this in the Hardison episodes because they needed to lay the groundwork for him leaving, and I wish those kind of interactions happened more frequently through the show. I love their comedy and the way they play off each other will always make me smile, but their more character driven conversations are the real heart of the show. Did anyone else feel like they're underusing Eliot in the comedy though? A lot of his gags, especially at the ends of some episodes, seemed like they were trying to recreate a "dammit, Hardison!" moment which just doesn't hit as well without Hardison.
I did really like that they spent time developing Breanna - how she needed to grow into the job, but also make it her own as she's not just a replacement for Hardison. I liked the dynamic between her and Parker because the mentor role isn't something we've seen a lot from her aside from The Boost Job and some gags with client's kids. She's conquered becoming comfortable working with and relying on her equals, but I like her learning how to be a role model and mentor too (an unconventional one to be sure). The addition of Harry's character is perfectly inoffensive to me and I like his confusion and ineptitude when it comes to the things we're used to from the crew, it makes for some good jokes. I also love that he's not just a bumbling idiot either and has his own kind of corporate expertise! The way he handled his kidnapping predicament in the Mastermind Job I thought was really clever and adds something new that had its own humor.
These are all obviously just my opinions but as a diehard Leverage fan I have SO many of them haha. I think I'm a little bit biased as I do really Want to love the show, and I know that in some places I'm filling in the gaps with my own feelings and headcannons. But they're taking care of and respecting the characters, trying to preserve the charm of the original, and it's making me smile, which are the most important things to me. I really hope Hardison is back for more of the second half of the season, I'm assuming he'll be there for the finale but I hope it's more as I do really miss him goofing with Parker and Eliot and I think the sibling rivaly with Breanna will also be funny now that she's come into her own as part of the team - I hope we see them stepping on each other's toes a little, particularly her on his! Fingers crossed for good things coming in the rest of the season!!!
I do have a question for you, Do you think that, in the world of Leverage, the mastermind role was given to Sophie as a way to get her out of her funk? Much like Season 2 when Nate let Sophie take charge or how Nate let every other team member run a con at one point, do you think this is “the kids” letting Sophie gain a balance of working with everyone? I mean Parker does work well as a mastermind but I guess I would have to see the episodes before making the suggestion of Parker needing more time to fully develop her skill as mastermind without Hardison or Elliot backing her up.
I definitely miss Nate, it was as weird as when Lasseter wasn't in the first Psych movie
I'm really disappointed that Parker's not the new mastermind. One of the biggest reasons I was excited for the reboot was because I wanted to see what type of twists would come about with Parker being behind most of the plans. My excitement level for the show is now quite low
Parker was quite entertaining in "Broken Wing" where she was the "mastermind" in the episode while everyone else was gone and she was stuck at home with a torn TBS/ABD/TDB knee thingy (forgot what it is called). Parker certainly would have brought the drama if she was the Mastermind in all of the new episodes as she does think a bit differently than everyone else on the team. Either way, I hope that your level of excitement about the new episodes doesn't keep you from hitting the F5 button the second that it is released as I will be. :)
Yeah!!!! Baby
Love the show can't wait.
Thanks for the update. 😁 👍
With the exception of a few lines of dialogue...
I am SOOOOOOO glad this was a pleasant surprise as i watched it.
Thought it was ok the first time through but then i watched them again and liked it even more the second time.
I hope they don't bait and switch us for a second season.
I loved the original and am 4 episodes in on Redemption. This was the first new show I have been excited about in a long time.
I was pleasantly surprised when I found out about the reboot, bummed about Nate, and surprised that Aldis Hodge was coming back, considering his movie career seems to be taking off and he costars with Kevin Bacon on a 3rd season of City on a Hill. It felt like a Leverage style twist to have him leave after the second episode. IMDB indicates he will be back for 7 episodes this season so that cheered me up and an article I read today indicates he will be a series regular so I have hope he will stick around.
I am thoroughly enjoying the show so far. I'm digging what the new team members are bringing to the table, and loving the old familiar friendships between the characters with their newly acquired skills and activities outside of the team. I was worried that the new characters would be unlikeable, but I find that the casting, writing and acting has allayed my concerns. I am enjoying the commentary about how the world has changed, and they have adapted, as we all are as well.
Hubby and i give Leverage Redemption to thumbs up!
Leverage was my favorite series of all time! I haven't seen any of the new ones yet but will definitely watch them.
Tbh my expectations are so low they’re almost at the earth’s core. The only thing that would’ve made me super upset is if they went super dark and edgy, which it sounds like they haven’t.
I was never really into leverage for the long plots. I was 100% more interested in the short cons. And most of my favorite episodes are the plot lite con heavy episodes, anyway.
Though I am a little disappointed that they dropped Parker being the Mastermind.
Bridge, you should like it if your expectations are low. I think I came off a bit negative, but overall I did enjoy it. I don't feel like any of the cons or episodes were beyond what we have seen befroe.
I rather liked the show. I cried in the beginning. I’m glad they took care of the Nate thing in the beginning.
As to Parker's alleged mastermind training, I felt like that line was written for the Season 5 finale before the rest of the season, but they forgot to show much or any such training and forgot to fix that line. Though I haven't re-watched said season since it aired as of yet, so maybe I may catch something the next time around.
Alec? At the end of the second season, he says in a dramatic scene he must go to one place, and then just leaves, leaving a forlorn Parker. We're led to believe it's some big thing that will take time. Then she seems fine the rest of the season as Alec's location changes every couple episodes.
I liked Breanna, and felt she was a good, solid addition to the team before the dialogue started hammering in that she's Alec's replacement, and that we need to learn so much about her at a brisk pace rather than giving us more chances to simply enjoy her character. It's like they felt obliged to fit a season or two of backstory, and a small amount of development, in seven episodes.
Nate's absence, and its reason, though... I would not say I was appalled by it, but I will have to say two things: 1) "Wow, OK, they really went there, and there is no turning this back without pissing off more people. 2) Half of the show hammers this death in harder than anything else in the show--actually almost to the point of the Mother and Baby thing from a certain Metroid game that must not be named--and it almost seems to get in the way of the plot rather than helping it move forward. And that is generally how we can compare these eight episodes to the five older seasons. There is no going back unless you re-watch the old episodes (which are good), and moving forward is missing that certain something.
Harry Wilson is an OK character, but, outside of the three episodes where he directly contributes to the plot, he just felt like the wacky attorney guy with the legal know-how in a few matters, or else another body that is there to fill the roster for the obligatory number's sake. His roles on grifting jobs boil down to some attorney here, some attorney there, or not taking part in the grift but hey, look, he still has the legal mumbo-jumbo to save the day against the Shkreli analog. Once the third episode passes, the show becomes far less about his redemption and more about the bad guy that the crew is taking on.
On that note, I felt like the weakest point in Redemption was about half of the dialogue. A lot of the charm and chemistry was there, and the plot was able to move forward. However, there were moments where I felt like the quality was subpar or cringe; less refined than the older Leverage seasons. The worst offender, imo, is an assassin whose very character goes down the drain when he goes into a poorly-written monologue about respecting the dead, which is then followed by a predictable endgame that plays him on this alleged respect.
I love the show. It entertains me, and that is what I want in a show. It gives me the action and suspense I want without being so intense that I need to unwind after watching it. The characters are not just coworkers they have become a family.
I disagree on Nate’s not being there not explained. It actually happens. As for Sophie taking over, if you watch Parker is the one that pushes her into Nate’s spot and subtly pushes her. Sophie was a mother figure to Parker, so to me it made sense for Parker to move Sophie from “The Grifter” to the Mastemind.
Agreed! And Sophie doesn't just take over. She consistently checks with Parker and values her opinion. I think its very cool to see the team being led now by the female characters working together!
Can't believe this was released off the radar...I was doing a rerun of the original series then suddenly got this on my VOD.
I am so hyped right now! the show is awesome even though not every character is back. the new characters are fantastic and sorry to everyone else but Christian Kane is my favorite :)
I just miss the - "Damn it Hardison" he used to say...
Hey, you get plenty of that! Check out my latest review for the fall episodes! It is my latest video!
My opinion is that the cast as a whole was greater than the sum of its parts. With that being said, I think the absence of Alec and Nate is going to be noticeable and make the new show less than the origional. I will still watch and hopefully enjoy it.
In the back of my mind, I hope that Harry ends up being a red herring and a villain getting the cast in to some kind of trouble that will usher in the return of Nate and hopefully a full time Alec too. Sounds too much like the very first episode though.
I started watching on Ion a few weeks ago. Enjoying it so far.
Without Nate, I'm not watching this show. He was central to the team. It's not the same unless all the characters come back.
I really agree with you with Redemption being "a solid return...with asterisks". I love the series and it is definitely a comfort show.
They really did not fully explain Nate's death whatsoever which irked me to no end. Personally, I was not in love with Hardison's foster sister, I feel like she needs some type of teacher (even though parker is suppose to be her mentor). With sophie, I felt that she should have some type of protege with the whole school thing. Harry, is interesting as a "inside man." The thing that makes me curious about him is his family. They are mentioned through the first 8 episodes, but not much is really said. Like he is becoming more of a con man, can he truly separate himself from that life to his home life. Just like how Sophie tried in the first series. But alas, we gotta wait until the second part to have a better idea
loved it, binge watched it.
The new Leverage Redemption is awkward because there are no love interests in the active crew now. Parker is alone, and Sophie is grieving. We need some spice here, people! Love Elliot forever!❤
I don't recall Nate ever training Parker to be Mastermind. Hardison wanted to learn to be leader and took point during the gold episode and Nate gave him a few pointers after showing his mistakes and to have contingency plans. Nate was training Elliot during the DC caper how to find a person's weakness to exploit it and Elliot at the end figured out Nate's motive for doing that was to groom Elliot to fill his spot. And at the series finale when Nate and Sophie were leaving the crew to get married Nate told Elliot to give them a call if they ever needed help (and doubting he ever would since Elliot would never need help) gives the impression that Nate left Elliot mainly in charge. Parker taking Nate's role in the last scene seemed more like Elliot, Parker and Hardison drew straws to see who would be the front 'man' for the new client and Parker won. After that they probably took turns being the lead.
leader and mastermind are very different angles
@@larrychatfield Are they really though? Nate was the mastermind who came up with the cons and led the group. When Sophie held the reins for a while she came up with the scam and gave everyone their assignments. When Hardison wanted to show Nate what he learned Hardison came up with the plan and told everyone what to do. Although I do think after Nate and Sophie left there was no THE Mastermind of the group, it was a group effort of the three to come up with the scam and who'll do what (I do hope the show acknowledges that the three likely hired more members to help out since the cons they did were a bit involved).
Watcher the season 1 twice. I really in joy this show and will be watching again.
loved every minute of it
For myself. The original series was great and set a high bar. Redemption still brings it but I admit that I missed Nate. And Timothy Hutton should be here but we know why he isn't.
Parker is still the "Mastermind" only due to Sophie leaving with Nate. remember that Sophie ran her own crew form time to time. so Parker still the Mastermind, shifted back to let Sophie run things. and did I not hear somewhere that Hardison said in the final show. "leverage world wide." and also heard they have 12 crews. so Sophie taking over their own crew, its still Parker as the CEO of Leverage and Hardison as head of the Hacker department of all those crews. so has to be out supporting them and checking up on them as well. Parker respects Sophie and loves her so letting Sophie run the main crew is natural for Parker.
Giving it some thought after watching this review, I actually really liked how they handled Nate in Redemption. BUT, I suspect that I mostly like it strictly due to the context that it's happening this way. It means that, in no uncertain terms, Nate will never be making an appearance. This way, they are able to acknowledge and honor the great character that was Nate Ford, while providing absolutely no spotlight towards rapist Timothy Hutton. I genuinely think it's the best way they could have possibly handled these circumstances.
Calling Timothy Hutton a rapist is just rubbish. In fact if you did any research into it at all you would know all charges have been dropped. Many a woman has charged an innocent man with such crimes.in an attempt to get monetary gain. And it has been alleged that the woman had tried to extort millions from Hutton before making the accusations public, only doing so after he refused to pay her off. In fact Timothy Hutton has now been officially cleared of any and all charges since the court found that their was no evidence to back the claim. The Canadian authorities scutenized the evidence and found a glaring lack of any evidence that a crime had been committed and no charges will be laid.
Yayyyyy!! Cant wait!!
I love the new episodes. Been waiting for this.
Awesome news, Susan! I enjoyed them highly!
I wish Hutton came back as Nate. It is a great series. I hope it gets another season. The last episode of the previous series Nate and Sophia was going to retire.
I didn’t feel those asterisks were that noticeable. It’s interesting that we’ve had two streaming series where grief was the prime motivator. I’m liking Harry Wilson. He’s out of his depth, but he never has to be taught something twice. One thing I think you may be seeing is that original Leverage, most episodes were very self contained. But the streaming shows get to be more a serial
Is any one else pi***d that Parker regressed to second season Parker instead of the kick ass mastermind Parker from Long Goodbye Job?
Yep. I love Parker, but she has regressed. Hopefully the show will get another season for her to return to her matured state...and bring back her love, Mr Hardison for more than just two episodes. If they can do that I'll be ecstatic. It was good seeing the old crew back together, even without the obvious absentees.
They do address Sofia planning the cons. In the Halloween episode. Parker is letting her take the lead to distract her from Nate being dead. Also explained. Heart took too much damage after all the anger
Thanks for the review!
Derek. Thank you so much! I hope you enjoy the show! :)
Thanks for the review, again, HUGE fan of Leverage. As another comment said, whatever it's going to look like I'll just have to roll with it, give it a chance. It is kinda sad Hardison won't be there for most of it, but it's understandable. Still looking forward to it.
Is this review just of the first episode or all 8 that are due to be release. I want to watch you review but will have to wait till i see atleast the first episode or first 8 depending on which this covers. BTW love the channel. Also if you love leverage check out Hustle aired on BBC from 2004 - 2012. I think you would like it.
This is the first EIGHT episodes. I believe they're still working on the rest right now.
Thanks for the kind compliments. I truly work hard given my situation. Thank you so much!
@@NaterTot all the other episodes are done. They're just in post production
Watched 20 min of first episode just couldn't watch anymore of it. Not going to watch it. So I rewatch seasons 1-5 over and over. Yea i know I should give redemption a chance but..... The dynamics just felt bit off. Original Leverage is my favorite and I always pick up on a couple of subtle things that I have missed over the years here and there which make it more fun to rediscover.
You’ve got Sophie dealing with crippling grief, plus she’s been off the grift for years. The overall arc of the 8 episodes is largely about Sophie recovering, and Episode 8 puts a nail in it
This is the thing, they said they wanted a bit of a different feel. The new characters they introduced they said wanted them to be part of "Original Leverage Redemption ". Like a new "spin off" sorta. Idk if they'd get two seasons tbh. Should have let it just be.
I kinda figured they’d go in the direction that they did regarding the absence of Nate’s character. It’s really the only thing that makes sense as to why Sophie would be back and not Nate. I really didn’t think I’d like the addition of the new characters as with most shows, it always seems forced and out of place when it happens but I was shocked that it worked so well here. Noah actually made me like him as “our Mr. Wilson” within his first few minutes in the first episode which shocked me. And of course, no one can replace Hardison but some how, Aleyse (Breanna) just…fits. She really does bring her own quirky nerdy vibe to the team and it makes Hodge’s absence hurt a little less (I’m also loving the way she interacts with Eliot and how Eliot already treats her like his little sister.) All in all, I really did enjoy the first 8 episodes and can’t wait for the rest later this year.
I was a fan of the original, but not a super fan. Glad to see the return and sounds like it’ll be good enough for me.