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Episódio
Temporada
Life
20078
DramaCrimeMistério
Lançamento
26 de set. de 2007
País
Estados Unidos
O complexo e excêntrico detetive Charlie Crews retorna à polícia após cumprir pena na prisão por um crime que não cometeu. A nova chance de vida de Crews lhe proporcionou uma visão zen, paz de espírito e nenhuma necessidade de vingança, uma atitude que pode ser difícil de manter quando alguém de quem gosta é ameaçado — ou quando investiga o mistério em torno do assassinato do qual foi falsamente acusado.
About
Quick guide
Detective Charlie Crews returns to the force after a wrongful conviction. The series follows his quest to clear his name while tackling new crimes.
Life centers on former LAPD detective Charlie Crews, who returns after a twelve‑year prison sentence for a murder he didn’t commit. Released with a newfound Zen‑inspired calm, he re‑joins the homicide squad, partnering with ex‑undercover narcotics officer Dani Reese. Together they investigate a series of cases that slowly unravel a larger conspiracy tied to Crews’ wrongful conviction. The show blends detective work with introspection and quiet Zen‑inspired moments, giving the story a contemplative pace. Each episode offers a self‑contained mystery, while the overarching plot threads through the two‑season run.
What to know
- Detective Charlie Crews has served 12 years for a crime he didn’t commit.
- He returns to the LAPD and partners with former narcotics officer Dani Reese.
- A conspiracy surrounds his wrongful conviction and continues to surface.
- Episodes mix case‑of‑the‑week with a larger mystery arc.
- The show includes subtle Zen philosophy influencing Crews’ approach.
- Episodes are 45‑minute long, with a total of 32 across two seasons.
Watch if
Watch if you enjoy detective dramas that blend mystery with personal growth, appreciate a calm, introspective detective, and like shows that gradually build a conspiracy plot across a self‑contained episodic structure.
Skip if
Skip if you prefer high‑speed action, loud confrontations, or if you dislike slow‑pacing character development and intricate conspiracy threads together.
crime violencedark tonedialogue heavyinvestigation heavylanguage somepsychological elementssuspensefulsome goremature themes
Premise Overview
Life centers on ex‑police officer Charlie Crews, who returns to the Los Angeles Police Department after a twelve‑year prison sentence for a murder he didn’t commit. With a newfound Zen‑inspired calm, he partners with former narcotics officer Dani Reese to tackle homicide cases, while slowly exposing a conspiracy that led to his wrongful conviction.
Main Characters
Charlie Crews is a former detective whose pragmatic mind is softened by a quiet spiritual outlook. Dani Reese, once an undercover narcotics officer, struggles with sobriety and a protective instinct toward her team. Supporting roles include Ted Earley, the pragmatic roommate, and Captain Kevin Tidwell, the LAPD commander whose decisions shape the investigation’s direction.
Tone and Style
The series mixes slow‑paced, dialogue‑heavy scenes with the brisk pace of crime‑scene investigations. Dark humor punctuates tense moments, while occasional gore and violence keep the stakes real. The show leans into psychological tension, exploring how trauma shapes a detective’s methods and relationships, rather than relying on fast action or high‑octane drama.
Season Structure
Each of the 32 episodes runs for about 45 minutes. While most are self‑contained mysteries, the first season’s overarching storyline threads through the wrongful‑conviction conspiracy. The second season expands on that conspiracy, deepening character backstories and the forces that keep Crews and Reese on edge.
Themes Explored
Life examines the fragility of justice, the lingering effects of imprisonment, and the search for personal redemption. It juxtaposes the calm of Zen philosophy against the violence of crime scenes, exploring how a detective reconciles a desire for vengeance with a commitment to truth. The series also comments on institutional power, corruption, and the cost of truth on personal relationships.
Reception and Legacy
Life received mixed reviews, praised for Damian Lewis’s nuanced performance and its unique tone. Critics compared it to shows like Monk and 24, noting its slower pacing and introspective approach. Despite a loyal fan base, the series was canceled after two seasons, but remains available on streaming platforms, offering a concise, character‑driven crime drama for niche viewers.
Where to Watch
Life can be streamed on platforms such as Hulu and Netflix, depending on your region. The two‑season series is available on DVD and Blu‑ray, offering a complete collection with bonus features. For those who prefer physical copies, the series is also sold in digital stores like Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
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FAQ
22 Q&A
Who is Charlie Crews?
Charlie Crews is a former LAPD homicide detective who was wrongfully imprisoned for a triple murder. After serving twelve years, he is released and returns to the force, determined to clear his name. He brings a calm, introspective mindset to his investigations, influenced by Zen philosophy.
What crime was Charlie convicted of?
He was convicted of the murders of his friend Tom Seybolt and most of the Seybolt family. The case was based on circumstantial evidence that was later disproved. His conviction was the catalyst for the series’ central mystery.
How long did Charlie serve in prison?
Charlie spent twelve years in Pelican Bay State Prison. The sentence was a life term, but he was released after evidence proved his innocence. The time in prison profoundly shaped his outlook on life and justice.
Who helped Charlie prove his innocence?
Constance Griffiths, a tough Los Angeles attorney, played a key role in uncovering the truth. With her legal expertise and persistence, she helped secure new DNA evidence. Their collaboration was essential to Charlie’s exoneration.
How does Charlie’s philosophy change after prison?
The harsh reality of prison life prompted Charlie to adopt a Zen‑inspired perspective. He focuses on mindfulness, the present moment, and acceptance of what he cannot control. This new outlook helps him stay grounded amid stressful investigations.
Who is Dani Reese and what is her background?
Dani Reese is a former undercover narcotics officer turned homicide detective. She struggles with addiction and the trauma of her past work. In partnership with Crews, she brings street‑smart insight and a strong sense of duty.
What is the main conspiracy in the show?
The conspiracy involves a network of former police officers and corrupt officials who framed Crews. It’s woven throughout both seasons as Crews uncovers hidden motives behind his conviction. The plot keeps viewers engaged as new evidence emerges.
How does the show handle the theme of justice?
Life examines the imperfections of the justice system, showing how bias and power can lead to wrongful convictions. The series invites viewers to question the reliability of evidence and the weight of institutional authority. It ultimately highlights the importance of truth over reputation.
Are there any supernatural elements in Life?
Life is a grounded crime drama with no supernatural or fantastical elements. It relies on realistic crime scenes, forensic details, and investigative procedures to drive the narrative. The show’s strength lies in its character development rather than speculative plot devices.
How many seasons and episodes does Life have?
The series ran for two seasons, comprising a total of 32 episodes. Each season has 16 episodes, each lasting around 45 minutes. Viewers can watch the entire run in a relatively short span.
Who are the main recurring characters besides Crews and Reese?
Ted Earley provides financial counsel and moral support for Crews. Captain Kevin Tidwell serves as Crews’ commanding officer. Other recurring figures include the legal assistant Constance Griffiths and former partner Bobby Stark. These characters enrich the main narrative.
What type of cases does the show focus on?
The show tackles a mix of homicide, missing‑person, and crime‑scene investigations. Episodes are structured around a single case that usually resolves within the episode. Some cases also intersect with the main conspiracy.
Does Life use any real-life crime scenes as references?
Life incorporates realistic investigative details, such as forensic analysis and evidence‑based interrogation. The writers consult police procedure guidelines to maintain authenticity. While some scenes are dramatized, the core methods stay true to real policing.
How does the show balance episodic and serialized storytelling?
The series offers a hybrid format: most episodes solve a stand‑alone mystery, but a continuous arc about Crews’ past threads through them. The creators balance resolution with the gradual unfolding of the larger conspiracy. This approach keeps the show fresh and suspenseful.
What tone does Life maintain throughout its run?
Life maintains a subdued, contemplative tone, punctuated by moments of tension. The show favors introspection over flashy action, with a focus on dialogue and character interaction. Dark humor and subtle references add depth to the narrative.
Is there a romantic subplot in Life?
A romantic thread is present, primarily involving Crews’ interactions with various characters. The series explores the challenges of balancing personal relationships with demanding work. Romantic subplots are secondary to the main investigative plot.
How does the show portray police bureaucracy?
The show depicts police bureaucracy as a mix of obstacles and allies. It portrays internal politics, departmental politics, and the influence of superiors. Crews faces pushback from some officials while gaining support from others.
Are the investigations realistic in terms of procedure?
Most procedural aspects are realistic, drawing on real police practices. The series shows evidence handling, crime‑scene protocols, and legal procedures. Some creative liberties are taken for dramatic pacing, but the overall framework remains believable.
How does the show end the story of Charlie Crews?
The story concludes with Charlie reaching a sense of personal closure, though the exact details of the final resolution are left open. The ending focuses on his emotional journey and the relationships he rebuilt. Viewers receive a feeling of resolution and hope.
Why was Life cancelled after two seasons?
Network decisions and ratings influenced the cancellation. Despite a dedicated fan base, the show struggled to maintain high viewership. NBC opted not to renew it after the second season, concluding the series.
Where can I watch Life today?
Life is available for streaming on platforms such as Hulu and Netflix, depending on the region. Physical copies can also be purchased from major retailers. Fans can access the entire series through various digital outlets.
Is there any continuation or spin‑off of Life?
There is no official continuation or spin‑off of Life. The story remains contained within the two seasons. Fans who enjoy the series can explore related shows with similar themes.
