“Wicked City” is yet another television drama within this fall’s television lineup focusing on murder. However, its structure as an anthology series distinguishes itself from the slew of murder-related programming — an unsurprising detail when looking at the critical acclaim surrounding “True Detective” and “American Horror Story.”
The first season revolves around LAPD detectives Jack Roth (Jeremy Sisto) and Paco Contreras (Gabriel Luna) and their quest to capture serial killers Kent Grainger (Ed Westwick) and his lover, Betty Beaumontaine (Erika Christensen). Set in drug-laden, wild and flashy 1980s California — specifically the Sunset Strip — the show pairs the seductive aspect of glamour with traditional violence.
The relationship between Roth and Contreras rings true to the style of the typical procedural drama. Newcomer Contreras seeks to establish himself as a detective. What Contreras lacks in experience, Roth makes up for as an esteemed homicide detective. Similar to other dramas, the two clash immediately and must put their differences and egos aside in order to work as an effective team. The shtick is irritatingly familiar and obvious, fueled by the snappish dialogue between Roth and Contreras.
The premise of the show itself is seemingly exciting — however, with the onslaught of shows that already deal with serial killers, “Wicked City” can feel overwhelming. The show’s music selection and fashion choices provide an 1980s feel, adding a nostalgic aspect. Still, there are plenty of familiar faces and fan favorites on the show such as Westwick of “Gossip Girl” and Taissa Farmiga, who portrays journalist Karen McLaren working alongside the detectives. Fans of Westwick and Farmiga, whom most likely make up the young adult sector of the audience, will definitely be pleased to see how their characters in “Wicked City” differ from the ones that catapulted them to fame.
“Wicked City” has many positive aspects, but it needs to remain cautious of its predictability. If it does not invoke typical “cat-and-mouse” game that precedes the detectives’ search of the Sunset Strip killers, it could be a breath of fresh air in a sea of murder dramas.
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