MAJOR CRIMES: Season 2 Premieres with “Final Cut”

Tonight is the season 2 premiere of TNT’s Major Crimes, the spinoff series from The Closer which ended its eight season run. Captain Sharon Raydor (Mary McDonnell) goes toe-to-toe with the new Deputy D. A. Emma Rios (Nadine Velazquez) over a new case and Rusty (Graham Patrick Martin).

In the official synopsis for Final Cut the squad scrambles to garner a confession when the pregnant wife of a big-time film director is found murdered. Meanwhile, just as things seem to fall into place under Raydor’s leadership, new Deputy D.A. Emma Rios challenges Raydor’s intentions as Rusty’s guardian.

Nadine Velazquez as D.D.A. Emma Rios
Photo: Darren Michaels

In Final Cut you really do get the feeling that the team fits together under Captain Raydor. This is a new division who’s purpose is to not just get a confession from the suspect, but to make sure they go to jail. This idea is something the new DDA has trouble grasping but Sharon quickly teaches her the rules of this game.

When it comes to Rusty however, these two women cannot see eye to eye. It will be wonderful to watch Rios and Raydor work together this season. Because they can work together. Rios brings an energetic feistiness to the show that offsets Raydor’s calm quietness. Both women are powerful, you can feel it. The air crackles right out from your TV screen.

By the way, watch Graham Patrick Martin in this episode. Rusty and Provenza have a scene that will bring tears to your eyes and it’s all on Graham. This kid has the makings for a powerful dramatic actor.

Watch Final Cut tonight and Major Crimes every Monday night at 9/8c.