Streaming Sunday features TV series or movies adapted from books I’ve read, offered on at least one streaming service and I’ve watched.
I am up to date in the Mickey Haller book series by Michael Connelly, which begins with The Lincoln Lawyer. It’s related to the Harry Bosch book series and they often crossover. However, the TV series based on both book series have yet to connect and as they are on different streaming platforms, I fear they never will.
The movie version of The Lincoln Lawyer stars Matthew McConaughey, which I watched and loved. He became my version of Mickey as I read through the book series, both visually and voice. When the series lead was announced, I worried whether he’d live up to my existing voice and image for the character as McConaughey left a strong imprint.The first season of the TV series is based on The Brass Verdict, the second in the book series. I think that was a smart decision as it put some space between the movie and the TV series. There were hints from the first season that makes me think that case will be featured at some point.
Manuel Garcia-Rulfo stars as Mickey Haller and his version is polar opposite of McConaughey’s depiction. My hubby struggled initially but I decided to lean into his performance. By the end of the second episode, he’d won me over. I thought it was a smart decision for him to play him so differently from the movie personality. He’s his own Mickey and I never felt like I was comparing him to his predecessor.
The casting of the other roles feels right but I especially love Becki Newton (of Ugly Betty fame). She’s ideal as Mickey’s second ex-wife and office manager whose lover is former biker Cisco and Mickey’s investigator, portrayed by Angus Sampson. Yes, Mickey’s relationships are complicated and can feel incestuous but it just works! Neve Campbell plays Maggie “McFierce” McPherson, his first ex-wife and mother of his daughter Hayley. She’s a prosecutor so their paths cross both personally and professionally.
Another standout is Mickey’s driver, Izzy Letts, portrayed by Jazz Raycole. Their conversations in the Lincoln Navigator are some of the best moments in the series. She brings a uniqueness to the role.
I tried to savor the series by watching only one or two at a time but by episode four, hubby and I gave up and binge watched the rest. I very much enjoyed the first season and I’m confident there will be a Season 2.
Here’s the most recent news from Michael Connelly, the author of the book series and executive producer of the TV series:
“Truly incredible news: The Lincoln Lawyer was the most watched show on Netflix in 65 countries! We haven’t heard yet if there will be a season 2 but we certainly hope so. If you enjoyed The Lincoln Lawyer please do give it a thumbs up on Netflix. (And if you like to rate shows on sites like Rotten Tomatoes & IMDb, that would be helpful, too.)”
The Lincoln Lawyer is currently streaming on Netflix.
Blue Mood Café 
Love both those trailers Jo, and can see why you like the Matthew McConaughey film,it looks really look. Must just have to give the Netflix series a go!
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Thanks, Nicki💜 I’ve watched that movie several times. I hope you enjoy the series as much as hubby and I!
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We’ve just finished Lincoln Lawyer season 1 and loved it! I’ve not seen the movie or read the series, so it’s all fresh and new for me!
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Woo hoo! Glad you enjoyed, too, Carol💜 I must say, they passed a tough test when the new series can win over a die hard fan of the books and the earlier movie.
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🙌 now I need to watch the movie!
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It’s free on HBO Max.
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Thanks!
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We watched last night! It was good but I think I prefer the Netflix version! Maybe because I watched it first?
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I actually think that’s great since the series will define Mickey going forward. Much more depth over ten episodes.
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True!
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I’m glad you are enjoying these. I have streaming and never get to anything. I feel most strongly about Love It or List It but I haven’t even got to the Raleigh years of it.
Anne – Books of My Heart
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Is Love It or List It streamed? I’ve only watched it on cable.
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Discovery+ We got it since it was $2.95 a month for a student and we are huge fans of HGTV and Animal planet which are both included.
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One of the few I don’t subscribe to😏 I catch them when they show up on cable.
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I liked the movie, but the series goes so much more in depth and I really enjoy the characters.
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I thought the same, Lynn. Wonderful that you liked it, too💜
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Now I’m tempted. I avoided the series because I loved Matthew’s Mickey so much in the film.
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Oh, Eva, you should definitely give it the two episode test.
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Great review! I still need to check this one out!
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Thank you, Amy💜 That means a lot coming from an expert reviewer!
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I’ve been meaning to start watching this one! I liked the movie, but I’ve only read the book with the same name and I’m worried there will be spoilers for future books.
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This one is based on the second book and they changed some things, just a little bit. But, it still has enough about the central plot that it will spoil the book.
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Thanks for letting me know, I made the right call to wait then! I probably should read at least book two first before watching…
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Yes, you did!
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Good timing with this post! I just finished up a couple of shows I was watching on Netflix and trying to decide what to watch next. 🙂
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Oh, I highly recommend, Suzanne💜
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