Vince Lombardi said, “Perfection is not attainable. But if you chase perfection, you can catch excellence.”
JUSTIFIED is back.
I’m in heaven.
It’s not just because I’m watching Timothy Olyphant. Though, he is nice on the eyes.
Talented actors; brilliant writing; pitch-perfect pacing. Justified is about excellence. I don’t say that lightly.
In fact, I’m such a big fan-girl, that a year ago—after the Season Two premiere—I blogged about this show over at Murderati.
You might think I’m blogging yet again about Justified so I can post pictures like this here at Murder She Writes. Not true. Not me, nope. That would be Lori 
But I’ll let you enjoy this shot for a moment.
Or two.
Ready?
Okay, there are a lot of fantastic television shows out there—but most of them are no longer on the networks. Or, the big networks kill them too soon, without giving them an extra push or doing nothing to save them (PRIME SUSPECT & DETROIT 1-8-7 – two of my fave new shows – cancelled after one short season.)
Cable has succeeded because they’re lower budget and can achieve success with a smaller viewership. They break rules and take risks. They don’t fit the mold. This is good for television lovers like me who are frustrated with the ho-hum and predictable shows. Sure, I like BODY OF PROOF and CASTLE and others, but my favorite shows—the shows I put on my calendar—are all on cable.
As soon as F/X announced January 17th as the Season 3 premiere of Justified, it went on my calendar. I bought the season on iTunes, but because I could not wait for the show to air and download, I also recorded it on my DirectTV box and watched it last night
Justified, based on an Elmore Leonard short story “Fire in the Hole” about U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens, is violent, edgy, and darkly humorous. I’ve often said that character is the single most important thing in a good book, and that’s true for television as well. Character is the foundation. Without character, it doesn’t matter how strong the writing is or how beautifully the film is shot, or how much money is spent on special effects. If the foundation crumbles, everything else falls with it.
Justified has the acting, writing, and pacing. But it’s foundation is rock solid. It’s about the characters.
Raylan Givens himself (played by Timothy Olyphant) is a flawed hero. Self-confident (cocky); smart; dedicated; bad-ass Western lawman in every sense of the word. DEADWOOD was just preparing him for this role.
Yet, if this show was just about Raylan, it wouldn’t be half as good. Boyd Crowder—played by the amazing Walton Goggins)—is even more complex than Raylan. He’s the bad guy … most of the time. But like any good villain, he’s not pure evil. In fact, he’s not evil, just not good. Boyd has his own code of honor, and when he and Raylan are on the same side, they can fight together. When they’re not? Raylan’s put him in prison a few times.
The other characters are all equally outstanding. Raylan’s boss, his colleagues (I hope they do more with Tim and Rachel, who have been strong secondary characters who add to the show, and can add much more as hinted in some past episodes.) The two primary female characters—Raylan’s whiny, bitchy, cheating, pregnant ex-wife Winona (yes, the baby is Raylan’s. I don’t have to like it.) and Ava, widow of Boyd’s brother who was with Raylan for season one and is now with Boyd. I like Ava. She has spunk, she stands up for herself, and she’s complex just like Boyd and Raylan.
Season three promises to be as good as the first two. Maybe better—and that’s hard to do. But if the opener is any indication, they’re on that road. My only skepticism at all is that the writers think that Winona can be redeemed. Because I trust them, I’m willing to give them the chance—but I think she should leave Raylan and go elsewhere. I mean COME ON. She cheated on him with GARY, a realtor. Divorced Raylan and married the weasel. I actually liked Gary more than her! (And I didn’t like Gary.)
At it’s core, though at times morally murky, JUSTIFIED is about good versus evil. No one is all good, or all bad. It’s also about all the shades of gray in between. It’s about choices you make and living with the consequences. It’s full of action, suspense, humor, crisp dialogue, and–of course–great characters.
And with it, Graham Yost and his crew have caught excellence.
Here’s a little commercial that played last year as a Super Bowl commercial:
And a teaser for Season Three:
I wish I could find the opening scene of season 1, episode 1 to show you — the scene that sold me on the series, where Raylan shoots Tommy Bucks. That scene has lasting consequences, even in Season Three.
Instead, here’s a music video of the opening song with some fantastic clips from season one. Gangstagrass performs the song, and because I loved it so much I bought their album, which inspired IF I SHOULD DIE. They were so gracious to give me permission to quote lyrics from another of their songs in the opening of DIE.
What show do you evangelize for? What show has characters so real you believe? Is there an opening scene that drew you in immediately, sold you on a show hook, line and sinker? Comment below for a chance to win season 1 or 2 of JUSTIFIED on DVD or iTunes; or season 3 gifted from iTunes … winners choice.
Hi Allison, here a big fan of Justified
I found a video of the scene you talk about (the guy Raylan killed on season one) Here’s the link in youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgD0YffAFCE&feature=related
Hugs.
Andrea from Argentina
You rock Andrea!
Oh, lordy! You are speaking my language! I would so love to win a “Justified” DVD!!! I have a “Justified” obsession ; )
The first season of Justified was fabulous! The second season was sensational. The third seasons will be terrific!!! This show has it all: a compelling story line that could take place in any era in history, well-etched, compelling characters, a wonderful leading man and a faultless ensemble cast, and always a surprise or two! One of my favorite aspects of Justified is that the women are every bit as fallible, ferocious, and fascinating as the men. Mags and her killer brew–Awesome!
Timothy Olyphant fits the character of Raylan Givens the way that Raylan’s Stetson fits his head! Perfectly! I must say that Timothy looks mighty fine in that hat, and he wears the hat, it doesn’t wear him. “Justified” is just about perfect in every way–an outstanding cast and astounding writing and overall production values. Dark, gritty, and impossible to look away from! Raylan is a dedicated lawman, a deadly crack shot, and his own worst enemy. Bad boys are naughty with a touch of irresistible sweetness. There is something about them, even though you may try to remain proper, that makes you want to show your own naughty self : ) They certainly won’t reproach you for letting down your hair and giving in to temptation! Bad boys are just as delicious and delectable as that last piece of chocolate fudge cake that you devour in the dark on a midnight kitchen raid!
Winona has Raylan by the “bahoogies”…and she always will. She was his wife, but she had an affair, divorced Raylan and married “Gary the Loser”, the guy with whom she had the affair. She really knocked Raylan for a loop and caused him to have all kinds of doubts and mixed-up thoughts. Even though he is not without blame in the break-up of his marriage, he never really understood why Winona left him. Later on, she couldn’t stand to see Raylan with Ava, so she cheated on Gary with Raylan. She really has Raylan twisted right where it hurts : (
Your analysis about Raylan and Winona is spot-on; but I wish Raylan would just dump her. She was bad enough married to Gary, but then cheating on Gary TOO??? My first thought is, if Raylan doesn’t make her happy, who’s she going to cheat with next? I don’t like her, I don’t trust her.
But it’s still a great show. And the conflict is great, too. We know he should dump her, but he doesn’t because she’s his weakness.
I also enjoy Body of Proof and Castle, but have yet to see Justified. It sounds great!
It’s violent and bold, just fair warning!
Hey Allison! Did you see a Justified episode “The Life Inside” was just nominated for an Edgar?
Argh, I posted my response below … It was also nominated for emmys and won best supporting actress for Mags Bennett. (The actress was Margo something, can’t remember off the top of my head …)
I’m a huge Justified fan. When it premiered the other night I was so anxious to be home in time to watch it. My family asked why I didn’t just DVR it like I do everything else. I had to explain that Justified is being recorded but the first viewing must be live. It’s that kind of show for me. The only other show that I will watch live no matter what is True Blood.
LOL, I agree that it’s better live, but I have strict writing rules. TV is my reward at the end of the writing day! (night most of the time!)
My favorite was 24. I pine for it. Justified sounds amazing.
I never watched it. I know, I’m bad, but I just didn’t get into it. Maybe that’ll be my new show to get — I’ll probably get a good deal on the old seasons!
Yes, I got the email this morning! LOL.
You and I have this same love love love of this series. I was afraid to read this post because I feared there might be a spoiler for the first episode, and I haven’t watched it yet!
God. Love me some Justified. That’s all I can say.
I tried not to give away spoilers! It is AMAZING. You will LOVE it. Just watch the scene with Raylan and Boyd in the office CAREFULLY because I have an opinion of the scene and I think I’m right, but no one else believes me until I explain it.
I guess I need to see Justified. I missed it and loved Deadwood. I like quirky, but I want characters I can root for. When I can like the serial killer enough to want him to escape in spite of what he’s done, thats a good show. Same with “Walking Dead”, it’s more about the characters than the zombies.
Carol, I totally agree! I didn’t want to watch WALKING DEAD, but my daughter did and it sucked me in because it’s all about the characters. I hope it’s just as good considering they fired the show-runner.
I saw the first season of Justified and loved it. It is intense and shocking at times but ‘justified’ is the optimum word! We stopped watching it because I have a very impressionable 12 yo that thinks guns and murder on tv are just a little too cool at the moment. My dad watches this series (much to my mothers displeasure) and always asks when I’m going to catch up so we can talk about it. Looks like I’m adding it to netflix so I can catch up while kids are at school.
My husband is completely addicted to Homeland. He is a disabled veteran with emotional ties to the war on terror so this show really appeals to him. It is the only show where he has ever yelled at the tv or screamed when he has been shocked by something. Not sure he will be able to stand the wait for the next season.
I’m not involved with any show this season, which is unusual for me. Lately my series addictions lean more towards written words than anything else. I LOVE anything by Lori Armstrong (not to mention Lorelei too!), moving on to Roxanne St. Claire’s Guardian Angelinos and also starting the Immortals after dark series by Kresley Cole.
I’ll try to see if I can put down my nook long enough to watch some tv!
I understand about impressionable kids — my son is nearly 11 and I wouldn’t let him watch it. We’re watching HEROES right now — I’ve seen it, but it’s been a few years, so I’m rewatching with him and we’re halfway through Season 3. It’s too scary for my 9 year old daughter, but for Luke it’s perfect. JUSTIFIED is too realistic and over the top in violence for him. However, I’m planning on watching GRIMM with him.
wow, i have *got* to watch that show. I especially loved the music you linked to, allison – that was amazing, i’ve never heard anything exactly like that before. as for me, i’m *still* watching Oz…very slowly…should finally finish it up soon. Love that show.
Look, Sophie, you got me hooked on WALKING DEAD, the LEAST you can do is let me get you hooked on JUSTIFIED. I guarantee you’ll love it.
I was completely addicted to LOST. I even composed an article that was published online on the Lost Studies page. http://loststudies.com/1.3/bad_twin.html
I knew every character and their backstory and had heated debates about what everything meant. For the finale, I made a cake map of the island, created a smoke monster from balloons, and served Dharma Beer. On my FB page, my pic is my LOST face when it was over…
I need a new obsession.
I haven’t gotten past season three of LOST. I need to.
So I have this theory about Winona that I’d like the writers to adopt. Last season Winona cheated on Raylan (again!) with Gary. The baby is Gary’s. Gary has earned oodles of dough in some real estate scam in another country and he takes Winona away with him. She’s never seen again.
The “documentary” beginning of LIFE had me hooked from the first minute of that sadly short-lived show. Knowing what Charlie Crews had endured and how everyone abandoned him, made him a character I HAD to get to know better.
I loved, loved, loved LIFE and have blogged about it here before. Another show network television cancelled. Great characters, but I know why it was cancelled — it was “tame” — no big chases, low budget, very “smart” in writing and dialogue. But unfortunately, it had that “quiet” feeling to it and in a network cop show it doesn’t work. But the acting was amazing and I loved the storylines. I have both seasons on my AppleTV, and I appreciate that the network let the series complete the story arc, so it’s a solid closed series, meaning we had closure.
Hmm, did she sleep with Gary after Raylan? I don’t remember. Maybe I need to watch season 2 again! Poor me
…
I thought she’d just disappear after the end of Season 2 because she gave Raylan the ultimatum that he needed to quit or she was gone. I know the writers, based on what I’ve read, know that viewers have a problem with Winona. I don’t know if they know WHY, however. They should poll us here at Murder She Writes, because we can tell them in no uncertain terms what our problem is with Winona.
I watched Jusitified this morning, I didn’t start watching this show until the middle of last season but I really enjoy it.
Fortunately, you don’t have to see it from the beginning, but you should!
I have only seen one episode of Justified. Liked it but it is on at a time when I am not able to watch it. May just have to buy the episodes on DVD. The one show that drew me in was The Closer… it has had a good run and the lead character is quirky. I agree with major networks not giviing shows a chance but what can we do as mere viewers-
Linda, I always write to the networks (or tweet them to death, LOL — I did that when they cancelled PRIME SUSPECT, not that it mattered.) But truly, I don’t care anymore. The best shows are on cable, and cable gives them a shot, usually more than one season.
I can usually tell when they’re going to cancel something. I feared for PRIME SUSPECT because there was nothing to distinguish it from other cop shows. It has great acting, great writing, but there are a lot of other cop shows with the same. DETROIT surprised me because 1) it was gritty and well written, 2) the hero was tortured and imperfect and made some morally ambiguous choices, 3) it was done in a location rarely seen on TV. I thought it would survive. I was wrong.
I do not have cable so I haven’t seen the series. Now, I wish I had
I loved the characters on HBO’s The Tudors. I watched the entire series on Netflix and was hook.
Netflix is good!
I like to watch Body of Proof or Castle myself. Justified is supposed to set in KY around Cumberland if i remember and that’s where my husband is from. The scenes of Cumberland they show at the beginning i have personally seen in person lol My husband is from Whitesburg KY a stones throw away and we lived there the first 5 yrs we were married. It’s funny because there are several movies and shows that have been filmed there. Although Justified is not filmed in KY. I watched that show for a while and then just didn’t. I need to get back into it and watch it again apparently based on all the talk i hear about it on the web. It’s great to find a show you can really get into.
Lisa B
I haven’t missed one episode of Justified. I love the writing and characters. Other shows that grabbed me from the beginning, The Walking Dead and American Horror Story.
I love you Jerri!!! I was hooked on DEAD and I love AMERICAN HORROR STORY. My 16 year old and I watched Season 1, and wow. I loved the complete story arc, the acting, the edge, the originality. Jessica Lange should take home an Emmy, hands down. They’re using a completely different location and story arc for Season 2, which I also love. Hmm, I may have to blog about that show later …
I haven’t watched the first episode yet, I’m waiting for subtitles so I can watch it with my mom, but after YOU got me addicted to it, I just CAN’T WAIT!
As you know, I really like Raylan, especially the fact that he shoots first and asks questions later, but my heart belongs to Boyd, and I’m a HUGE BAva fan! Boyd & Ava just have to be one of the cutest couples on tv! EVER!
But I think the show with the characters so, so real for me is PRIVATE PRACTICE. It’s the show that makes me cry just about weekly. It’s mostly the women, but the men somewhat, too. But they’re the most messed up, hypocritical, characters on television, and Good Lord, I ADORE them! They’re fantastic doctors. Amazing professionals, who deal with ethical dilemmas pretty much every episode, and more often than not, they put aside their values, they break their own rules and do a helluva lot “do what I say and not what I do” in order to save their patients. And most often, they do. But they end up shattered, unhappy and very alone. I know very, very people who like PP, being an spin off of Grey’s Anatomy, more than the original show, but every week, when I think Grey’s was good, I just have to wait another hour for PP. It’s probably the show that gets to me the most. That has the most real characters.
That and DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES. The plots have faltered through the eight seasons, some of them sucked, but the characters have remained real and steady and I love them with the same force that I did when I was sixteen years old, and I’m heartbroken to have to say goodbye in May.
NEVER making ANYTHING bold again. EVER
I fixed it
You’re my hero! <3
Glad I hooked you!
I don’t watch much TV anymore, but lately, Hubby has gotten me hooked on watching AMC’s Hell on Wheels with him. It’s a Western set during the building of the transcontinental railroad. Ex-Confederate soldier Cullen Bohannon (Anson Mount) is the tortured hero of the series. And, if anyone is interested, he’s not too hard on the eyes, either. His cast photo is here:
http://www.amctv.com/shows/hell-on-wheels/cast/cullen-bohannon
Oh, great pic, and sounds like a great series to replace DEADWOOD!!!
I’m also hooked on Justified, but am behind. Thanks to several recommendations — including several from Allison — I bought season 1. I have yet to watch season 2.
I’m also fond of Person of Interest, White Collar, and Burn Notice. All very different but very character based.
I haven’t watched Justified yet but several of my friends love it. I prefer to watch a series from the beginning so I would love to see how it all began.
I was always a LOST fan but I currently love Sons of Anarchy. It can be a bit over the top but I love the Hamlet theme that runs throughout the series.
I have never watched Justified. Looks awesome. I love NCIS and Bones.
Many people have mentioned they love Justified. I don’t have cable, but I’ve requested season 1 from the library. I think someone on this site recommended Luther, a British show. I got both seasons at the library and it is great. In a lighter vein, I love Wonderfalls, all the characters make me laugh.
I love LUTHER!
I know there’s a blog post in there somewhere..but I just got mesmerized by Timothy Olyphant’s eyes, as per usual. I was watching Justified on the Canadian Netflix, then it disappeared mid-episode (stupid Netflix). But I loved what I saw!
I’m hooked on Sons of Anarchy. I didn’t think I would be, but whoa, I love it. True Blood also drew me in right away. And Nurse Jackie? Seriously hilarious.
Justified. I loved the new show with Maria Bello, but it got canceled, and that was just stupid decision making at NBC. (It was tough and edgy like Justified, with a flawed female heroine and really interesting cast.) My old favorite is still Life (also canceled after 2 seasons). So looking forward to this season 3.
I agree about PRIME SUSPECT. I loved the ensemble cast. It took a couple episodes for them to find their rhythm, then BANG! Cancelled. But I’m going to miss it.
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Where did you get this information? I personally thought the first episode of the third season was a prelude to her self-destruction. In this one alone; She seemed as if she didn’t want to go into his hospital room. She showed little or no emotion about his injury. She was wanting and willing to drink while pregnant. She wanted sex and then “used” him. She looks even more sleazy this season. Or were all of my perceptions because I don’t like her?
I quoted: My only skepticism at all is that the writers think that Winona can be redeemed.
Here’s the article where Graham Yost is interviewed: http://insidetv.ew.com/2012/01/18/justified-graham-yost-season-3-premiere/
Here’s the key quote:
“What is your plan for showing us Raylan and Winona’s relationship this season? How will you balance it with the rest of the show?
YOST: Our goal is really to rehabilitate Winona, in that, I think with some viewers, and I think with us, we were just terrified of her becoming this whiny drudge who was not letting our hero be a hero. So we wanted to show a different side of her and a different side of their relationship and have more fun with them, because they play well together. So we wanted to have a little bit of that come back.”
I just don’t think she’s redeemable, I think she’d leave Raylan in a heartbeat if she doesn’t get her way, and I’m still pissed at her about stealing the money out of the evidence room. Talk about a TSTL moment. But it boils down to fidelity. Even if I COULD forgive her for being an idiot and cheating on Raylan, I have a hard time forgiving her for cheating on Gary with Raylan, then going back to Gary, then dumping him for Raylan. Really. What’s going to happen when another Gary comes along? How can anyone trust her? I don’t. She’s an adulteress and a thief.
Not that I have any strong opinions about Winona or the show …
I cannot think of another show I love more than Justified. On the same level, I also love Dexter and Trueblood. Different shows, which I love for different reason.
Raylan Givens is my kind of hero.
I saw the trailer and knew I’d regret missing it. Now I have to go back and start from the first season!
Yes you do, Karin. Gary would love it too.
I was a huge fan of LOST.
Oh, I’d have to say I’m a huge fan of Justified. There are quite a few other shows I absolutely love, including Castle, White Collar and Warehouse 13. The only television shows I have on DVD are Lost, Firefly and Brisco County Jr., so I guess you could say they’re top favorites. Justified would definitely earn a spot on my DVD shelf though, that’s for sure.
I’ve never seen Justified but I do enjoy Sanctuary and NCIS. Not much else appeals to me.
Sorry, had a second dentist appointment today! Just getting back online … then off to the high school open house though my jaw is sore
I still enjoy Leverage though I fear it’s going to jump the shark sooner than later. I tried AMC’s Hell on Wheels, a gritty western but just didn’t spark with it. The newest show on my radar is SyFy’s Lost Girl. I’m glad Rylan is back but Lawyer Guy is even more excited. He’s a true devotee of the show. LOL
Okay, I have to watch this show!!
Don’t you love that show? Raylan is divine. Old Mags Bennett is going to be hard to beat, but I have every confidence in the writers. This show is the best and I agree with you that cable takes more risks with their programming. We viewers are so lucky. Tim has a lot of input and he’s allowed to improvise. Of course, being one of the producers helps.
LindaC
I loved Mags Bennett. She was a fabulous villain, totally believable.
hi! ive never seen justified. i know, i know. im definitely gonna have to start.
thanks for sharing!
I looove Timothy Olyphant, but sadly, I have not seen this series and I can’t believe it. Where the bleep have I been???? Would love to win the first two seasons, have some catching up to do!!!! I’m sold with Castle and can see it being a reality. Love that show and the chemistry between Castle and Beckitt is what keeps me coming back
Yes, where have you been? LOL. You’ll love it.
I’m not sure which rock I’ve been hiding under but this is the first time I’ve heard about Justified. The video clips are appreciated and I learned about a new show, thank you.