If you tell someone there's a new show that is similar to "Castle" and "Elementary"--with a man-woman team that solves murders--he might say he wants to check it out, because he likes both of those shows. Or he might say it's been done before and refuse to watch it.
The new show "Forever" involves a homicide detective, Jo Martinez (Alana De La Garza), and a medical examiner, Dr. Henry Morgan (Ioan Gruffudd), who work together to solve murders. Like Sherlock in "Elementary", Henry utilizes amazing powers of observation to deduce the truth. Will Henry and Jo become romantically involved, like Castle and Beckett? It seems destined to be.
Unlike Sherlock, Henry is very attached to a family member--Abe, played by Judd Hirsch, who is Henry's adopted "son". And there's another important twist: Doc Henry is immortal. He has lived for about two hundred years and he considers that a curse. He has chosen to eschew close relationships, knowing the inevitable pain of loss that must result when he outlives a loved one.
The appeal of the show depends upon the three main characters. Fortunately these three actors are fun to watch and bring believability to a supernatural premise.
After watching the first two episodes, it seems that the writing will bring interesting stories to the murder-solving genre. I want to see how many ways they can use Henry's "affliction" to advance a plot. In the pilot, Henry uses himself as a guinea pig to test the properties of a deadly poison--something that even Sherlock cannot do.
The story takes place in New York City, so put on your thinking cap and watch "Forever" over a cocktail--perhaps a Manhattan.
Update 10/8/14: After watching the episode titled "The Art of Murder", I am finding this new show even more enjoyable. This episode draws on Henry's personal experiences to create a truly emotional resolution, which might have been aided by the music of Ella Fitzgerald. I may have to increase my rating if this keeps up.
