The 2-Season HBO Crime Drama Stephen King Called a 10/10 Masterpiece

There's no shortage of prestige options for crime drama fans to enjoy. In a crowded streaming environment, some shows may slip through the cracks even though they possess all the ingredients to succeed. HBO 's Perry Mason is a perfect example of a series that garnered critical acclaim and hit the ground running. Still, several factors led to an early cancellation. It has earned a strong reputation among those who have given it a chance.

One of the show's most vocal supporters was Stephen King himself, who took to social media to give Perry Mason a stamp of approval. King has always had an appreciation for mystery and character-driven stories, so it's no surprise that the sleeper series impressed him. While it's unfortunate that the show only lasted two seasons, it has left a worthy legacy that has mystery and crime fans craving more.

For fans who kept up with the series after its release, the overwhelming consensus is that HBO canceled Perry Mason far too soon . Season 1 premiered in late June 2020, drawing viewers and ultimately earning rave reviews from critics. However, the second season didn't debut until nearly three years later. That massive gap killed the show's early momentum and caused a significant dip in viewership.

Another factor leading to Perry Mason being scrapped was the high production cost. As a period drama, the meticulous, extensive historical sets depicting Depression-era Los Angeles required a massive budget that Season 2's viewership didn't justify. Though fans only have two seasons to enjoy and ponder the potential future, Perry Mason has much to offer the viewer looking to scratch the neo-noir itch.

Starring Matthew Rhys as the legendary lawyer, the series takes the audience back to when Mason was just a struggling private investigator trying to make ends meet. HBO didn't present Mason as the polished icon that audiences remember from previous series and films. Rhys' Perry Mason was deeply flawed and carried his past on his sleeve.

It's a different version of the character, one that viewers could relate to and root for. Alongside Rhys, Juliet Rylance, John Lithgow, and Chris Chalk make up a supporting cast that makes the series feel more complete. Each actor brings a specific energy to their respective role that fills out the corners of this corrupt setting.

Lithgow shines as veteran attorney E.B. Jonathan, a flawed father figure and mentor to Rhys' Mason . Their relationship blurs the line between personal and professional. Jonathan, at the end of his rope as an attorney, sets up Mason's eventual rise from investigator to lawyer. The world of HBO's Perry Mason feels dirty and alive as all of these characters' individual stories intertwine.

The underbelly of Los Angeles becomes a character in its own right, creating that classic noir feel. Just when the viewer believes they've figured out the next clue, the series throws a curveball that resets expectations.

HBO reimagines Perry Mason just enough to make the character feel fresh and modern while maintaining his legacy. The result is a benchmark for how to properly upgrade and reintroduce a classic figure to a modern audience while appeasing old-school fans.

It's clear early on that the show is much more than a hollow revival cash grab. This is a quality series that can stand on its own. The main case is intriguing and full of twists, but perhaps the world itself is the biggest draw. It exists beyond the mysteries and fuels everything happening, from the characters to the atmosphere.

The series has an unmatched sense of immersion in modern noir television. Despite its premature cancellation, crime drama fanatics will find much to love about Perry Mason .