It’s always a treat to have a new TV series that’s entertaining and, in this case, just plain fun. “Poker Face” streaming on Peacock is by the renowned writer/director from the creator of the “Knives Out” films, Rian Johnson.
Meet the new Columbo, ‘her’ name is Charlie Cale, played by Natasha Lyonne; she wears oversized sunglasses and a dusty baseball cap and drives a beat-up 1969 Plymouth Barracuda. Don’t try to underestimate her as she’s got any crime case solved, as she has a secret weapon. Each episode of “Poker Face” has a unique twist, as Cale can tell when a person is lying. And…she doesn’t hesitate to find out the truth of every case.
The episodes involve another case, and typically another murder, whereas Cale shows up in some capacity (she is usually working near the crime scene as a waitress, cook, housekeeper, etc.). Each episode unfolds through flashbacks and flashforwards, highlighting clues to be considered.
I’ve enjoyed the first five Episodes and look forward to the next five. The guest celebrities are loads of fun to watch, as in Adrien Brody, Benjamin Bratt, and Judith Light. There’s something about the charisma of Natasha’s character that makes the series so entertaining and of course, Rian Johnson’s excellent scripts. Looks for different writers and directors throughout the season.
I’m Sarah Knight Adamson, your film and TV critic for Sarah’s Backstage Pass. Be sure to check out my top 15 film reviews of the 30 I screened at the Sundance Film Festival.
Sarah Knight Adamson© February 5, 2023
