When his former law partner is killed, hotshot Los Angeles lawyer Mickey Haller is left to take over the firm, including a high-profile murder trial. With the biggest case he’s ever had to tackle out of the back seat of his Lincoln Town Car, Mickey discovers there may be more at stake than he thought. Based on the bestselling novel by Michael Connelly, The Lincoln Lawyer premiered on May 13 on Netflix. It’s already hit the top ten list on Netflix, and according to Forbes, Netflix’s ‘The Lincoln Lawyer’ Review: Probably Worth Your Time.
Alright, Alright, Alright
The Lincoln Lawyer, a new adaptation of the Michael Connelly books, has hit screens across the country. But don’t expect Matthew McConaughey to show up in this 10-episode, easy-to-binge series. Instead, we have Manuel Garcia-Rulfo stepping in as Mickey Haller, and I’m not mad about it. (That dimple!) Within the first episode, we learn that Mickey is getting back into his attorney groove after spending some time in rehab due to a substance abuse disorder. And this won’t be the only character in this series to be dealing with addiction and recovery.
Izzy Letts, played by Jazz Raycole, is one of Mickey’s clients who ends up being his personal driver. There’s a scene early on where the two are sitting at a bar, not drinking, and talking about recovery. Izzy is pretty active in recovery via 12-step meetings, and Mickey has basically been white-knuckling his recovery. Izzy turns to Mickey and says this profound statement, “You can’t recover until you know what you are recovering from.”
Addiction Storyline is Minimal
While the addiction storyline is pretty subdued and not at the forefront of this series, it is nicely intertwined throughout all 10 episodes. It does accurately depict the quick-to-form bond that happens between two people in recovery who are supporting each other with the curve balls that life throws their way. I personally find it refreshing to see characters in TV Series and movies where recovery is part of their persona but not what the actual leading storyline is about. Because, newsflash, people, we do recover!
Overall, I found The Lincoln Lawyer an easy to binge series. Why yes, I did watch all 10 episodes in one day, while I was putting together my newest Lego Succulent kit. I’ve had a lot going on lately, and one thing I’ve found that is good for my long-term recovery is to unplug and relax with mindless things I enjoy. Crafting and binge-watching are two activities that bring me both joy and inner peace.
It’s a solid legal drama that gave me Bosche vibes. Especially with the scenes from Mickey’s house that overlooks a stellar view of Los Angeles and interactions with his teenage daughter Hayley Haller, played by Krista Warner. Plus, if you’re a Neve Campbell fan, then you’ll want to check out this series. Her character, Maggie McPherson, is the ex-wife of Mickey and I do have to say, this fabulous wild thing hasn’t aged at all.
The Mindful Binge Sobees Score: 4.5 out of 5
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The Lincoln Lawyer Season Two
The Lincoln Lawyer Season 3 – Read the review
What are you watching? We want to know! DM us on social media or email us at thesobercurator@gmail.com and tell us what movies or TV series you’re binging that have addiction, recovery, and/or mental illness as part of the leading storyline.
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
