Matthew Rhys has proven he's more than just a one-hit wonder. After his Emmy-winning turn in The Americans, the actor has continued to take on fascinating roles, from the upcoming The Beast in Me to the horror-comedy Widow's Bay. But one of his greatest performances remains in a show that ended far too soon: HBO's Perry Mason, a noir crime drama that deserves a spot on your watchlist.
This isn't your grandfather's Perry Mason. The series, which ran for two seasons, strips away the procedural formula of the classic 1950s show and returns the character to his gritty 1930s origins. Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, this Perry Mason is a slick, edgy noir that dives into the dark underbelly of Los Angeles. It's a historical reboot that feels both fresh and timeless, blending courtroom drama with a detective thriller.
A Darker, More Complex Hero
Rhys' Mason is a far cry from the polished lawyer of yesteryear. He's a broken World War I veteran struggling with PTSD, working on the fringes of the law as a voyeuristic photographer. The series opens with a brutal case inspired by the Lindbergh kidnapping, immediately establishing that this is an HBO show unafraid of adult content. Rhys brings a raw vulnerability to the role, making Mason a prickly yet deeply sympathetic character whose trauma fuels his relentless pursuit of justice.
The supporting cast is equally stellar. John Lithgow delivers a poignant performance as E.B. Jonathan, Mason's mentor and a beacon of hope in a corrupt world. Chris Chalk shines as Paul Drake, a Black beat cop who becomes Mason's ally, offering a unflinching look at racism in 1930s Los Angeles. Their chemistry elevates the series beyond a typical legal drama.
Two Seasons of Riveting Mystery
Each season of Perry Mason focuses on a single, complex case. Season 1 tackles a high-profile child murder, while Season 2 takes a more concentrated look at systemic racism, as Mason defends a young Black man scapegoated by a biased legal system. The show excels at building tension through clues, witnesses, and Mason's risky legal strategies. It's a satisfying blend of anti-hero story and noir crime drama that keeps you guessing until the final verdict.
Despite critical acclaim, Perry Mason was cancelled after just two seasons, making it one of HBO's most disappointing losses. The series cracked the code on how to revitalize an old property, offering a compelling mystery that respects the character's roots while appealing to modern audiences. For fans of crime thrillers, it's a hidden gem that deserves a binge. If you're looking for more underrated crime series, check out our definitive ranking of the top crime series of the last 5 years.
Rhys' performance is the heart of the show, and it's a shame he didn't get more time in Mason's shoes. But with his recent projects like Widow's Bay and The Beast in Me, it's clear he's one of the most consistent and exciting actors on television. For now, Perry Mason remains a must-watch for anyone who loves a good noir mystery.
