theguardian.com
High Potential: A Review of Season Two
High Potential, a US procedural, returns for a second season, focusing on Morgan Gillory, a genius cleaner-turned-detective with an IQ of 160, who solves complex crimes while juggling single motherhood.
- What are the show's overall strengths and weaknesses, and what is its likely future appeal?
- High Potential excels in creating suspense and showcasing Morgan's impressive problem-solving abilities. However, plot inconsistencies and a less-than-perfect conclusion in season two raise concerns about the show's long-term quality. Despite these flaws, the show's easy-to-watch format, likable characters, and the ever-reliable appeal of a brilliant detective will likely ensure continued viewership.
- How does High Potential compare to other shows featuring savant detectives, and what makes its approach unique?
- Unlike other savant detectives portrayed as reclusive or flawed, Morgan is presented as a glamorous and charismatic single mother. This unique approach aims for a more heartwarming and crowd-pleasing narrative than the typical cynical detective story. The show's focus on a more accessible, positive portrayal contrasts with the often darker depictions of genius detectives.
- What are the main strengths and weaknesses of the show's protagonist, Morgan Gillory, and how do they contribute to the show's overall appeal?
- Morgan's extraordinary intelligence and problem-solving skills are the show's main strength, creating thrilling and suspenseful narratives. However, her unrealistic perfection – flawless instincts, high emotional intelligence, and lack of significant flaws – diminishes her relatability. The show also struggles with inconsistencies in plot quality.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view of the show High Potential, highlighting both its strengths (the protagonist's character, the suspenseful plots) and weaknesses (unrealistic elements, inconsistent plotting). While praising Morgan's character, the review also points out inconsistencies in her portrayal and the show's overall narrative. The framing is largely neutral, though the concluding sentence subtly suggests a positive overall assessment.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral and descriptive, although words like "slick," "narcotic," "cosy," and "heartwarming" carry subtle connotations and could be considered subjective rather than objective descriptors. The description of Morgan as "flawless," "gorgeous," and "charismatic" could be seen as overly positive and potentially biased. More neutral alternatives could be used, such as 'competent,' 'attractive,' and 'engaging.'
Bias by Omission
The review focuses primarily on the main plot and the protagonist's character. Other aspects of the show, such as supporting characters' development or the overall thematic elements, receive minimal attention. This omission may limit a complete understanding of the show's quality beyond the central narrative.
Gender Bias
The review focuses heavily on the female protagonist, which isn't inherently biased; however, the description of her struggles as a single mother and her use of a "mind palace" for couponing is presented in a way that may perpetuate stereotypical views of women juggling motherhood and career. The description could be reframed to highlight her resourcefulness without reinforcing stereotypes. The article also notes the uniformly 'nice' and 'two-dimensional' male colleagues.
Sustainable Development Goals
The show features a female protagonist who is a single mother working a minimum wage job while also being a highly intelligent detective. This indirectly addresses gender inequality by showcasing a woman excelling in a typically male-dominated field and overcoming socioeconomic challenges. While not explicitly focused on inequality, the portrayal of a successful single mother challenges stereotypes and can inspire.