10 Ways the Matlock Reboot Took a Hammer to the Law: How It Diverged From the Beloved Original
Ben Matlock, the portly, rumpled lawyer with an uncanny ability to sniff out the truth, was a fixture on television screens for nearly a decade. His folksy charm, meticulous approach to law, and signature "gotcha!" moment captivated audiences. So, when a reboot of the beloved series arrived, expectations were high. However, instead of simply dusting off the original formula, the new Matlock took significant liberties, reshaping the character and the overall tone of the show. Here are 10 ways the Matlock reboot swung its legal gavel in a distinctly different direction, straying from the spirit of its 39-year-old predecessor.
1. Gender Swap and Generational Shift: Perhaps the most glaring departure was the transformation of Ben Matlock into Madeline "Mattie" Matlock, a young, vibrant female lawyer. While Kathy Bates' performance as the original Matlock's associate brought a touch of femininity to the courtroom, the reboot fully embraced a woman in the lead role. This generational shift also brought a modern sensibility to the legal dramas, addressing issues relevant to a younger audience.
2. Fast-Paced Storytelling vs. Deliberate Unraveling: The original Matlock prided itself on its deliberate pacing. Episodes often built slowly, meticulously laying out the details of the case and allowing Ben to methodically unravel the mystery. The reboot, in contrast, opted for a faster, more action-oriented approach. Cases were resolved with more urgency, sacrificing the slow-burn suspense that characterized the original.
3. Focus on Relationships vs. Individual Brilliance: Ben Matlock was largely a lone wolf, relying on his own sharp intellect and investigative skills. He had assistants, yes, but the spotlight was firmly on his genius. The rebooted Matlock, on the other hand, emphasized the importance of collaboration and teamwork. Mattie relied heavily on her associates and colleagues, creating a more ensemble-driven dynamic.
4. Modern Technology vs. Analog Ingenuity: The original Matlock relied on old-fashioned investigative techniques: interviewing witnesses, scrutinizing documents, and trusting his gut. Technology played a minimal role. The reboot, naturally, incorporated modern forensic techniques, digital evidence, and social media, reflecting the technological landscape of contemporary law enforcement.
5. Flamboyant Suspects vs. Understated Deceit: The suspects in the original Matlock were often well-to-do, arrogant individuals who thought they could outsmart the clever lawyer. They wore their guilt on their sleeves, often overplaying their innocence. The rebooted Matlock presented a more nuanced array of suspects, individuals who were skilled at hiding their true motives and blending into the background.
6. Folksy Charm vs. Polished Professionalism: Ben Matlock was a man of simple pleasures, known for his love of hot dogs and his penchant for wearing the same rumpled suit in every episode. His folksy charm was integral to his character. The rebooted Mattie, while still possessing a strong moral compass, exuded a more polished and professional demeanor, fitting the image of a successful, modern lawyer.
7. Conservative Values vs. Progressive Themes: While not overtly political, the original Matlock subtly reflected more conservative values, particularly regarding family and tradition. The reboot, on the other hand, embraced more progressive themes, tackling issues such as social justice, gender equality, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities.
8. Predictable Structure vs. Surprising Twists: The original Matlock followed a fairly predictable structure. The murder, the investigation, the courtroom drama, and the climactic "gotcha!" moment. While entertaining, it rarely deviated from this established formula. The rebooted Matlock attempted to introduce more surprising twists and turns, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats and challenging their expectations.
9. Comforting Nostalgia vs. Cutting-Edge Relevance: The original Matlock offered a sense of comforting nostalgia, a familiar and predictable escape into a world where justice always prevailed. The reboot, while still aiming to deliver justice, prioritized cutting-edge relevance, addressing contemporary issues and appealing to a modern audience.
10. Hot Dogs and Ice Tea vs. Craft Cocktails and Fine Dining: Finally, even the culinary preferences reflected the changes. Ben Matlock was known for his cheap suits, simple pleasures, and love of hot dogs and ice tea. He was a relatable everyman. The rebooted Mattie, on the other hand, might be more likely to be found enjoying craft cocktails at a trendy bar or indulging in a fine dining experience, reflecting her more modern and sophisticated lifestyle.
In conclusion, while the rebooted Matlock inherited the name and the basic premise of a lawyer defending the wrongly accused, it underwent a significant transformation. It modernized the character, embraced contemporary themes, and adopted a faster-paced, more collaborative approach. While some may lament the departure from the original's comforting familiarity, the reboot attempted to revitalize the franchise for a new generation, ultimately offering a distinct, albeit different, take on the iconic legal drama. Whether it succeeded in capturing the magic of the original remains a matter of personal taste, but one thing is certain: the Matlock reboot definitely took a hammer to the established formula.
