Suits: The Complete Series (2011-2019) [Blu-ray review]

“Suits” is a stylish and sharp legal drama that debuted in 2011 on the USA Network and quickly became one of the network’s most successful series, running until 2019. Created by Aaron Korsh, the show mixes legal intrigue with high-stakes personal drama, set against the backdrop of a high-powered New York City law firm. The series was not only known for its clever writing and charismatic ensemble cast but also for catapulting Meghan Markle into the spotlight before she became a member of the British royal family.

What is Suits?

The central premise of “Suits” revolves around the talented Mike Ross (Patrick J. Adams), who accidentally lands a job as an associate at Pearson Hardman, despite never having attended law school. The only person aware of Mike’s lack of legal credentials is Harvey Specter (Gabriel Macht), one of the city’s top lawyers, who takes a gamble by hiring Mike due to his prodigious photographic memory and legal prowess. This secret forms the basis of the series’ ongoing tension, with each episode building on the risk of their deception being discovered.

This show lasted for 8 years?

“Suits” is defined by its dynamic characters. Gabriel Macht’s Harvey Specter is suave, cocky, and deeply complex. His mentorship and sometimes tumultuous relationship with Mike Ross provide much of the series’ emotional and narrative drive. Patrick J. Adams, as Mike Ross, balances vulnerability with a sharp intellect, creating a character that viewers root for from the start.

One of the standout performances comes from Gina Torres as Jessica Pearson, the managing partner of the law firm. Her commanding presence and moral complexity make her a compelling character who navigates the cutthroat legal and corporate environment with skill and a deep sense of personal integrity.

Meghan Markle’s Rachel Zane, a paralegal who aspires to be an attorney, adds depth to the storyline with her ambition and her romantic involvement with Mike. Sarah Rafferty as Donna Paulsen, Harvey’s fiercely loyal secretary, and Rick Hoffman as Louis Litt, a brilliant but insecure attorney, provide both comic relief and emotional depth, enhancing the ensemble dynamic that is central to the series’ appeal.

Dive into the narrative depths of a show that I thought was fake until 2015

“Suits” excels in portraying the intricacies of legal cases while also delving into personal ethics, loyalty, and the quest for power within the corporate world. Each season intertwines personal growth and professional challenges, with characters frequently facing moral dilemmas that test their relationships and ideals.

The series effectively uses its legal setting not just for procedural drama but as a stage for larger ethical questions and character development. The interplay between personal ambition and moral responsibility is a recurring theme, as is the idea of family—both biological and chosen. The tight-knit environment of Pearson Hardman (later Pearson Specter, and several other iterations) showcases both the best and worst of what a corporate family can offer.

“Suits” is notable for its sharp dialogue and witty banter, particularly between Mike and Harvey, which adds a brisk pace and levity to even the most dramatic episodes. The show’s fashion, particularly its emphasis on high-end corporate attire, adds an extra layer of sleek sophistication that became a hallmark of the series.

The impact of USA originals

“Suits” made a significant impact on television with its unique take on the legal drama genre. It spawned a short-lived spin-off, “Pearson,” focused on Gina Torres’s character, and influenced how legal dramas could blend procedural elements with personal drama. The series also gained additional attention due to Meghan Markle’s departure to marry Prince Harry, bringing a wider audience to the show.

“Suits” remains a definitive legal drama that blends intelligence, quick-witted dialogue, and complex character dynamics. It challenges its characters and its audience with moral complexities and personal dilemmas, all wrapped in a stylish, polished presentation. Whether binging for the first time or revisiting the series, “Suits” offers a compelling glimpse into the ambitions and moral trials that define the corporate legal world. Its mix of humor, heart, and legal intrigue ensures its place as a beloved and influential series in the landscape of modern television.

Suits: The Complete Series comes to Blu-ray

Suits is the latest massive series to get a Blu-ray release from Universal. I know they just did Heroes and a few other sets. However, I’m stoked to see recent TV getting such loving care in massive box sets from Universal. It shows a continuing commitment to Physical Media.

The special features in this massive set ranges from deleted scenes to gag reels to the extended pilot and related featurettes. The A/V Quality is what you expect and sports a stunning 1080p transfer. What is even more impressive is the stellar DTS-HD 5.1 master audio track. The original broadcast was never that clear. Oh well, if you’re a fan…pick it up.

Suits: The Complete Series is now available for purchase at MovieZyng