Procedural Perfection: How "High Potential" Rewrites the Crime Drama Rulebook

In a television landscape often dominated by procedural dramas that rely on tired tropes, ABC's "High Potential" stands out as a refreshing exception. Created by Drew Goddard and based on the French series "HPI," this captivating dramedy boasts a winning ensemble led by the talented Kaitlin Olson, who showcases her versatility in the role of single mom and crime-solving savant, Morgan.

Elevating the Procedural Genre with Nuance and Authenticity

Competent Colleagues, Not Clueless Counterparts

One of the hallmarks of "High Potential" is its avoidance of the common television trope where the lead character's intellect far surpasses that of their colleagues. Instead, the show presents a team of capable and competent LAPD officers, including Daniel Sunjata's Karadec, Javicia Leslie's Daphne, Deniz Akdeniz's Oz, and Judy Reyes' Selena, who are not mere foils to Olson's Morgan. These characters are skilled at their jobs and contribute meaningfully to the case-solving process, rather than being portrayed as bumbling incompetents.Moreover, Morgan's own intellect is not without its flaws. While her photographic memory and vast knowledge of diverse subjects prove invaluable, she is also depicted as a "bumbling mess" in her personal life, just like the rest of us. This nuanced portrayal adds depth and realism to the character, making her more relatable and engaging.

A Professional Partnership, Not a Romantic Entanglement

Another refreshing aspect of "High Potential" is the relationship between Morgan and Karadec. In a genre where romantic tension and will-they-won't-they dynamics often take center stage, the show has resisted the temptation to go down that well-trodden path. Instead, the focus remains on their professional partnership, with no overt signs of a burgeoning romantic connection.This decision not only avoids the clichéd tropes of the "will-they-won't-they" narrative but also allows the characters to develop a genuine, platonic rapport. Karadec is not written as a jealous or antagonistic counterpart to Morgan, but rather as a supportive colleague who recognizes her value and contributions to the team.

Harmonious Family Dynamics, Not Constant Drama

The show's handling of Morgan's personal life is equally refreshing. Rather than resorting to the typical family drama that often plagues procedural dramas, "High Potential" presents a surprisingly harmonious dynamic between Morgan, her ex-husband Ludo (Taran Killam), and their children.Instead of the expected friction and conflict, the relationship between Morgan and Ludo is marked by a cooperative and supportive co-parenting arrangement. This allows the show to focus on the more compelling aspects of the characters' lives, such as the mystery surrounding the disappearance of Ava's (Amirah J) father, without getting bogged down in unnecessary personal drama.By avoiding these common pitfalls, "High Potential" sets a new standard for procedural dramas, offering a more nuanced and authentic portrayal of its characters and their relationships. The show's commitment to subverting expectations and delivering a refreshingly grounded approach to the genre has earned it critical acclaim and a growing fanbase.