Review: ABC's Hit Crime Drama And Its Five Problematic Tropes

James

3 min read

Post on Sep 16, 2025

4.9

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Review: ABC's Hit Crime Drama and Its Five Problematic Tropes

ABC's latest crime drama, "[Insert Show Title Here]", has quickly become a water-cooler hit, captivating audiences with its gripping plot twists and compelling characters. But beneath the surface of its polished production and thrilling mysteries lie several problematic tropes that, while common in the genre, detract from the overall experience and reinforce harmful stereotypes. This review delves into the show's successes while critically examining five of its most concerning narrative shortcuts.

The Show's Strengths: A Gripping Premise and Strong Performances

Before diving into the criticisms, it's crucial to acknowledge "[Insert Show Title Here]'s" undeniable strengths. The central mystery, revolving around [brief, spoiler-free description of the central plot], is genuinely intriguing and keeps viewers hooked. The performances, particularly from [mention lead actor/actress and their role], are compelling and nuanced, elevating even the more cliché moments. The cinematography is also noteworthy, creating a dark and atmospheric world that perfectly complements the show's tone.

Five Problematic Tropes Holding the Show Back:

While the show excels in many areas, it unfortunately relies heavily on several tired and problematic tropes that hinder its potential.

1. The "Damsel in Distress" Trope: The female characters, while strong in certain respects, frequently find themselves in perilous situations requiring rescue by their male counterparts. This repetitive reliance on the "damsel in distress" trope not only limits the agency of these characters but also perpetuates a harmful stereotype. For example, [give a specific example from the show without spoilers].

2. The Unrealistic Police Procedural: The show often takes liberties with police procedure, glossing over legal complexities and employing convenient plot devices to advance the narrative. This unrealistic portrayal can be frustrating for viewers familiar with the intricacies of criminal investigations. A prime example is [give a specific example from the show without spoilers].

3. The "Magical Negro" Trope: [If applicable, discuss how the show uses this trope. If not, skip this section and proceed to the next trope.] The show features [character description] who, despite their limited screen time, inexplicably possesses deep wisdom and insight that assists the main characters. This is a classic example of the "Magical Negro" trope, which relies on the stereotypical portrayal of Black characters as mystical guides.

4. The Overly Convenient Coincidence: Several key plot points hinge on highly improbable coincidences that feel contrived and undermine the show's credibility. These plot devices, while useful for advancing the narrative, detract from the sense of realism and organic storytelling. [Give a specific example from the show without spoilers].

5. The Villain's Unnecessary Monologue: The show’s villain frequently engages in lengthy monologues explaining their motivations, revealing their plans, and providing the audience with information that could have been more effectively conveyed through action and subtext. While such scenes might offer some psychological insight, they often feel unnecessary and interrupt the pacing.

Conclusion: Potential for Growth, but Needs Improvement

"[Insert Show Title Here]" is an undeniably entertaining show with a strong premise and talented cast. However, its reliance on these well-worn and problematic tropes prevents it from reaching its full potential. The show's creators have an opportunity to address these issues in future seasons, crafting a more nuanced and impactful narrative that avoids these harmful clichés. While the show's current popularity is undeniable, addressing these criticisms is crucial for its long-term success and positive impact. What are your thoughts on these tropes? Share your opinions in the comments below!