Watch For Life

For Life is a powerful and moving legal drama that made its debut on ABC in February 2020. Set in New York City, the show is loosely based on the real-life story of Isaac Wright Jr., a man who was wrongfully convicted of drug trafficking and yet managed to become a licensed lawyer and win his freedom.

The lead character in the show is Aaron Wallace, played by Nicholas Pinnock. Aaron is a talented and ambitious African-American man with a wife named Marie (Joy Bryant) and a daughter named Jasmine (Tyla Harris). However, his life takes a dramatic turn when he is falsely accused of a drug-related crime and sentenced to life in prison without parole. This devastating event shatters his dreams and endangers his family, but Aaron refuses to give up hope.

Determined to prove his innocence and regain his freedom, Aaron begins to study law and fight for justice from behind bars. He is helped by a talented and dedicated team of lawyers, including his former wife and now public defender, Marie, and the charismatic and ambitious Safiya Masry, played by Indira Varma. Together, they work tirelessly to uncover new evidence, expose corrupt officials, and challenge the broken criminal justice system that failed Aaron and countless others like him.

For Life is a heart-wrenching and inspiring story of resilience, perseverance, and the enduring power of hope. It tackles important themes such as racial inequality, systemic injustice, and the role of the media in shaping public opinion about crime and punishment. The show does not shy away from showing the harsh realities of life in prison, from physical violence and emotional trauma to the human cost of isolation and dehumanization. However, it also celebrates the strength and dignity of the human spirit, as Aaron and his fellow inmates find ways to support each other, learn new skills, and maintain their humanity in the face of adversity.

The performances in For Life are outstanding, especially the central role of Nicholas Pinnock, who brings depth, compassion, and authenticity to the character of Aaron. He convincingly portrays the challenges and contradictions of being a convicted criminal who is also a brilliant lawyer and a loving father. Joy Bryant is equally impressive as Marie, whose journey from resentful ex-wife to loyal ally is one of the highlights of the show. Indira Varma excels as Safiya, a smart and savvy lawyer who shares Aaron's passion for justice and his determination to challenge the status quo. The supporting cast, including Mary Stuart Masterson, Boris McGiver, Dorian Missick, Glenn Fleshler, Timothy Busfield, and John Doman, are also superb, adding layers of complexity and nuance to their respective roles.

The production values of For Life are impressive, with high-quality cinematography, editing, and sound design that enhance the emotional impact of the story. The show's use of flashbacks, dream sequences, and voiceovers adds depth and texture to the narrative, revealing new layers of character development and plot twists. The soundtrack is also notable, featuring a mix of contemporary and classic songs that add resonance to the themes and moods of the scenes.

Overall, For Life is an outstanding drama that deserves to be watched and appreciated by a wide audience. It offers a unique perspective on the criminal justice system, one that is both critical and empathetic, and raises important questions about the role of law, morality, and humanity in the face of overwhelming adversity. Whether you are a fan of legal dramas, social justice issues, or simply want to be moved and inspired by a powerful story, this show is definitely worth your time and attention.

For Life is a series that ran for 2 seasons (23 episodes) between February 11, 2020 and on ABC (US)