Critiquing ABC's Crime Drama: Five Tired Tropes That Need To Go

4 min read Post on Sep 16, 2025

Critiquing ABC's Crime Drama: Five Tired Tropes That Need to Go

ABC's latest crime drama has arrived, promising thrilling mysteries and compelling characters. But while the initial buzz might be high, a closer look reveals a concerning reliance on tired, overused tropes that are hindering the show's potential. Instead of innovative storytelling, we're left with predictable plotlines and characters lacking depth. It's time for a change. Let's examine five tired tropes that need to be banished from crime dramas, using ABC's new show as a cautionary tale.

1. The Unreliable Narrator Who's Actually Right (Most of the Time)

This trope, while occasionally effective, has become incredibly predictable. The protagonist, often burdened with a troubled past and questionable methods, constantly questions their own sanity and perceptions. Yet, despite their internal turmoil and external doubts, they are ultimately proven correct, revealing a hidden truth that only they could uncover. ABC's new drama leans heavily on this, making the protagonist's internal conflict feel less like genuine struggle and more like a predictable plot device. Instead of this tired cliché, viewers crave genuinely complex characters with relatable flaws and uncertainties that don't magically resolve themselves into unwavering correctness.

2. The Genius Detective Who Solves Everything Through Intuition

Gone are the days of meticulous detective work. Now, it's all about the eureka moment, the sudden flash of insight that unlocks the entire mystery. This reliance on intuition, rather than thorough investigation and evidence gathering, simplifies the process and robs the audience of a satisfying intellectual journey. The genius detective trope, while sometimes entertaining, often feels lazy and undermines the credibility of the investigative process. ABC's show falls into this trap, offering little in the way of procedural detail and relying heavily on the protagonist's "gut feeling." A more nuanced approach is needed, showcasing the rigorous work involved in solving complex crimes.

3. The "Damsel in Distress" Who Secretly Has Hidden Skills

While strong female characters are increasingly common in crime dramas, the trope of the seemingly helpless victim who secretly possesses extraordinary skills continues to persist. This trope often feels like a cheap attempt to subvert expectations without genuinely challenging gender roles. Instead of creating truly independent and capable female characters, writers fall back on this familiar formula, diminishing the character's agency and reducing her to a surprise twist rather than a fully realized individual. ABC's new show employs this trope predictably, undermining the potential of its female characters. True progress requires abandoning this worn-out cliché and creating female leads who are powerful from the start, not just after a dramatic reveal.

4. The Corrupt Cop with a Secret Agenda (Who's Also Surprisingly Competent)

The morally ambiguous cop is a staple of the crime genre. However, the predictability of this character archetype, particularly when their corruption doesn't significantly impact their effectiveness, is starting to wear thin. Viewers are left wondering why this supposedly corrupt individual is consistently solving cases, often better than their ostensibly ethical colleagues. This trope often undermines the narrative's moral compass, blurring the lines between good and evil without offering sufficient nuance or complexity. ABC's show utilizes this trope, making the morally compromised officer almost too efficient, which negates the intended tension.

5. The Twist Ending That's Obvious From Mile Away

The shock twist ending has become a cliché in itself. While a surprise ending can be effective, the predictability of many modern crime dramas' twists undermines their impact. Instead of genuinely surprising the audience, these endings often feel forced and contrived, resulting in a sense of dissatisfaction rather than excitement. ABC's new drama fails to avoid this trap, relying on a predictable plot twist that feels less like a revelation and more like a desperate attempt to manufacture suspense. A truly gripping crime drama should prioritize compelling narratives over cheap shock tactics.

In conclusion, ABC's latest crime drama, while visually appealing and featuring some talented actors, ultimately falls short due to its reliance on these tired tropes. The future of the crime drama genre demands innovation, creativity, and a willingness to move beyond these predictable clichés. Only then can we hope for truly compelling and engaging narratives that capture and hold our attention. What are your thoughts? Share your opinions on tired crime drama tropes in the comments below!