Person of Interest, which aired from 2011 to 2016, is a show that often gets overlooked when discussions of great TV shows come up. However, it is one of the most underrated shows of all time, and here’s why.
First and foremost, the show’s premise is unique and intriguing. The show follows John Reese, a former CIA operative who teams up with a reclusive billionaire, Harold Finch, to prevent crimes before they happen. Finch has developed a machine that can predict terrorist attacks, but it also has the ability to predict other violent crimes that the government considers irrelevant. Finch hires Reese to help him prevent these “irrelevant” crimes, and they become a dynamic duo working to save people who would otherwise fall through the cracks.
The show’s cast is exceptional, particularly the two leads. Jim Caviezel plays Reese with a quiet intensity, and Michael Emerson’s portrayal of Finch is subtle and nuanced. Together, they have fantastic chemistry and elevate the show with their performances. The supporting cast is also excellent, particularly Taraji P. Henson as Detective Joss Carter, who is determined to uncover the truth about Reese and Finch’s activities.
One of the show’s greatest strengths is its ability to blend episodic storytelling with an overarching narrative. Each episode follows Reese and Finch as they try to prevent a new crime, but there are also larger storylines at play that slowly unfold over the course of the series. These storylines are incredibly well-crafted and give the show a sense of depth and complexity that is often missing from procedural dramas.
Person of Interest is also a show that is unafraid to tackle big ideas. The show explores themes of government surveillance, artificial intelligence, and the balance between freedom and security. These themes are particularly relevant today, and the show’s exploration of them is thoughtful and nuanced.
Despite all of these strengths, Person of Interest never quite found the audience it deserved. The show was often shuffled around the schedule and didn’t receive the same level of promotion as other shows on CBS. As a result, it never quite gained the widespread recognition it deserved.
In conclusion, Person of Interest is one of the most underrated shows of all time. Its unique premise, exceptional cast, well-crafted storylines, and exploration of big ideas make it a show that deserves to be remembered and celebrated. If you haven’t had a chance to watch it yet, I highly recommend checking it out.