These days, most TV shows are only average - they are a little too predictable or maybe just a bit boring. Even most of this year's "good shows" are, at best, slightly above par - they keep me interested, but they're not a "watching priority."
Fortunately, USA Network's addictive crime dramedy White Collar is anything but average. First airing in 2009, the show is now on the last half of its third season. Full of plot twists, fashionable clothes and believable acting, White Collar has become one of my favorite programs.
Set in New York City, White Collar has a very similar premise to Stephen Spielberg's 2002 flick Catch Me If You Can. The show follows the story of Neal Caffrey (Matt Bomer), a hot, young con artist who got caught by the FBI. Caffrey was released from prison to work with the FBI, but still has to wear an ankle tracker. Tim DeKay stars as Peter Burke, Caffrey's boss and, incidentally, the man who originally caught him. Naturally, what started out as a grudging partnership between the two men turns into a brotherly camaraderie as Peter begins to understand Neal's wily mind and Neal comes to appreciate Peter's strong moral fibre. Together, the two form an unstoppable duo as they assist the FBI in combating white-collar crimes.
With Tiffani Thiessen starring as Burke's wife Elizabeth, and Willie Garson as Neal's eccentric partner-in-crime, Mozzie, the acting for the show is top-notch. You'll never be lacking for laughs with these two characters around. In each episode, the writers masterfully blend this natural comedy with the perfect amount of intensity.
The show has talent in spades, but it doesn't hurt that the cast is also good-looking. Bomer is arguably the most gorgeous man alive, and DeKay, with an uncanny resemblance to
Colin Firth, is no strain on the eyes. Granted, it can exacerbate any viewer's inferiority complex knowing that every main character on the show - especially the female characters - could walk down a runway at the drop of a hat. But if the worst I can say about a show is the characters all look beautiful and put-together, then I think we have a winner.
Upcoming episodes promise interesting developments and plot twists. In a recent episode, Neal showed his willingness to give up his legally questionable ways for Peter and
Elizabeth, unmasking a previously hidden vulnerable aspect of his character. The program also promises to show viewers the elusive conman's background. Until now, viewers have had very little idea of where Neal Caffrey comes from or even if that is his real name, but, according to season three trailers, followers can look forward to finally learning the true story of the man behind the con.
3.2 million people tuned in to the January 17th episode, and you'd be wise to join them. You can catch new episodes of "White Collar" on the USA Network Tuesdays at 10 p.m. 3
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