Recently got PureFlix - the series name "Vindication" and the vagueness of the advertised story line got my attention. From the first minute of Season 1, Episode 1, I've been captivated. I've read the other 10-star reviews here, and they see the same qualities that I do, so I don't want to duplicate them.
I've seen most of Season 1, and find Vindication realistically and crisply written, with methodical pacing that is a nice break from the pressure of fast and furious police and detective shows. I particularly like how the personal and family stories underlying the detective's work, and underlying the events in the lives of others with whom he deals, are weaved together seamlessly.
The sets are simple, even spartan - which is fine with me, as that is more like a stage play where the focus is upon the people, the story, the human experiences. Camera angles and shots are tasteful and add meaning - the cinematography isn't like the shows where the camera is always moving around, a feature that can be distracting. Music is added perfectly, perhaps sparingly, as accents and mood setting rather than as a commanding part of the show.
Some of the situations, difficult conversations, and stressful moments are familiar to me - and Vindication reflects them fairly and true to life. There are instances involving how Christians deal with things, speak, and make decisions - I've seen nearly the same sorts of things with Christians in my world (I'm one, too.) No caricatures here. And some characters like the detective are still "not sure" about God and Christianity - I was one of those previously - and they are presented fairly and accurately.
I am really impressed with the acting (and of course also the directing that brings it out) - the repeating characters do things, say things, and experience emotions that come across as quite genuine. Each episode features situations that can happen in real life, with real people dealing with them and addressing thoughtful issues as they arise. I wish I could personally congratulate Todd Terry, Peggy Schott, Venus Monique, and Emma Elle Roberts for their memorable performances, often with close up cameras that would not forgive anything less than actors' precision. The other great actors do a terrific job to make the episodes powerful as well.
Like the other 10-star reviewers here, I would binge watch, so I can hardly hold myself to one episode a day, because I know there are not that many - and I do hope the series is continued as long as the writers, actors, and directors can make it happen.
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