The Intersection of Power and Truth: Aldis Hodge and Ben Watkins’ New Legal Drama “Cross”

In the ever-evolving world of television and cinema, few narratives grip the audience like a well-executed legal drama. Combining intrigue, moral dilemmas, and the quest for justice, such shows offer viewers not just entertainment but also a mirror into societal issues and personal motivations. With the rise of streaming platforms and evolving tastes in storytelling, a new legal series, Cross, is set to redefine the genre. Featuring the powerhouse talents of Aldis Hodge and Ben Watkins, this upcoming drama promises a complex exploration of justice and personal revenge, while also shedding light on deeper societal issues.

Aldis Hodge’s Dynamic Role as Alex Cross

Aldis Hodge, known for his compelling performances in One Night in Miami and City on a Hill, takes on the role of Alex Cross in the upcoming series. The character is more than just a regular lawyer, but one driven by a deeply personal mission. Cross is a detective-turned-lawyer seeking justice for his late wife, whose mysterious death has haunted him for years. The emotional depth of the role allows Hodge to immerse himself in a character driven by both moral and emotional complexity. In an interview, Hodge expressed his excitement about playing Cross, describing him as a man struggling to balance his relentless pursuit of justice with the personal cost that comes with such an obsession.

Alex Cross, as portrayed by Hodge, stands as a representation of many black men navigating systemic injustice. His position as a Black lawyer in a system historically designed to undermine individuals like him elevates the stakes of his character. Not only does Cross seek to solve the mystery of his wife’s death, but he also stands as a beacon of justice for those wrongfully accused or oppressed. Hodge’s portrayal of Cross transcends traditional narratives of revenge, evolving into a powerful commentary on the broader legal and social frameworks that disproportionately affect marginalized communities.

Ben Watkins and His Vision for “Cross”

Behind the visionary storytelling of Cross is Ben Watkins, a writer, producer, and showrunner known for Hand of God and his work on Burn Notice. Watkins’ ability to weave complex narratives filled with moral ambiguity and intense character development brings Cross into the fold as one of the most anticipated legal dramas of recent years. He has expressed that Cross is not just about legal battles or courtroom drama; it’s about exploring the gray areas between justice and morality. By doing so, Watkins sets the stage for a narrative that challenges the traditional black-and-white view of the law.

Watkins’ creative philosophy for Cross focuses on exploring how power, race, and privilege influence the legal system. As Cross digs deeper into his wife’s death, he uncovers a conspiracy that reaches into the highest levels of power, suggesting that justice is not always about what is right but rather who controls the narrative. Watkins, being a Black showrunner, is particularly interested in highlighting the systemic issues within the justice system. Through the series, viewers are invited to consider how those in power manipulate the law to their advantage, leaving individuals like Alex Cross fighting against both personal and systemic obstacles.

The synergy between Hodge’s performance and Watkins’ storytelling is expected to create a multifaceted narrative filled with tension, moral questions, and emotional depth. Watkins has crafted a narrative that doesn’t simply focus on the legal system but on the human elements within it—the complexities, flaws, and gray areas that make the pursuit of justice so elusive.

Legal Drama as a Reflection of Society

Legal dramas have long held a mirror to society, reflecting its complexities and imperfections. In Cross, the focus shifts from standard courtroom proceedings to a broader exploration of the legal system’s impact on marginalized individuals. The series dives into themes of systemic racism, police corruption, and the exploitation of legal loopholes by the wealthy and powerful. What sets Cross apart from other legal dramas is its intimate portrayal of a man who is both an insider and outsider in the world of law.

Alex Cross’s journey parallels many real-life legal cases where racial bias has led to miscarriages of justice. By turning Cross into a lawyer and former detective, the show portrays the delicate balance between understanding how the system works and trying to change it from within. The series goes beyond the courtroom, delving into investigations, political influence, and personal vendettas. Cross’s story illuminates the struggles many black professionals face in the law enforcement and justice systems, where they are often forced to reconcile their professional responsibilities with the moral and ethical dilemmas they face.

This approach makes Cross more than just a legal drama—it becomes a social commentary on the broader systemic issues at play in today’s world. By framing these issues within the context of a personal tragedy and legal battle, Watkins and Hodge are able to bring these societal discussions into the homes of millions, using the medium of television to engage with larger issues of justice and inequality.

The Visual and Emotional Depth of “Cross”

One of the most striking aspects of Cross is its commitment to visual storytelling. Exclusive photos from the set offer a glimpse into the dark, atmospheric aesthetic that complements the series’ dark and complex themes. Shot with a noir-like quality, the imagery captures the intensity of the courtroom scenes, as well as the personal turmoil of Alex Cross as he navigates his dual roles as a lawyer and grieving husband. Cinematographer Blake McClure, known for his work on Euphoria, brings a haunting visual style to the show, using stark contrasts between light and dark to reflect the moral ambiguity present in the story.

The emotional core of Cross is underscored by the relationship between Alex Cross and his late wife, whose memory is a constant presence throughout the series. Flashbacks, visual cues, and a haunting score composed by Kris Bowers evoke a sense of loss and urgency that drives Cross’s actions. The series explores how grief can manifest in different ways, from the pursuit of justice to the emotional toll it takes on a person. Hodge’s portrayal of Cross delves into these layers of grief, making his character’s journey as much about emotional closure as it is about legal victory.

The use of visual metaphors, such as the recurring imagery of rain or shattered glass, adds depth to the storytelling. These motifs reflect the fragmented state of Cross’s life and mind as he pieces together the mystery of his wife’s death. Combined with intense performances and a gripping storyline, the series promises to be an emotionally charged experience that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

The Broader Cultural Impact of “Cross”

The arrival of Cross at a time when conversations about racial justice and systemic inequality are more prominent than ever adds to the cultural significance of the show. In recent years, legal dramas have become more than just a source of entertainment—they have become platforms for discussions on pressing societal issues. Cross is poised to join this tradition, using its narrative to challenge perceptions of justice, race, and power in America.

For Hodge and Watkins, the series is an opportunity to contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the role of race in the legal system. Both have been vocal about the importance of representation in Hollywood, and Cross provides a platform to showcase not just the talents of Black creators, but also the stories that resonate with Black audiences. By centering a Black protagonist in a legal drama, the series challenges traditional tropes and stereotypes, offering a fresh and nuanced perspective on the genre.

Beyond its narrative, Cross also holds the potential to inspire broader discussions about how the legal system interacts with issues of race and class. The character of Alex Cross, with his unique blend of intellect, emotional depth, and moral ambiguity, serves as a vehicle through which these larger societal questions are explored. In this way, Cross becomes not just a legal drama but a cultural touchstone, reflecting the broader conversations happening across the country about justice and equality.

Conclusion: “Cross” as a New Standard for Legal Dramas

Cross, led by the dynamic performances of Aldis Hodge and the visionary storytelling of Ben Watkins, is set to redefine what a legal drama can be. With its complex characters, morally ambiguous narratives, and a commitment to exploring the gray areas of justice, the series stands out as a powerful commentary on the legal system and the broader societal issues that influence it. Through the lens of Alex Cross’s personal quest for justice, Cross invites viewers to reflect on the nature of power, morality, and the pursuit of truth.

As it joins the pantheon of great legal dramas, Cross has the potential to leave a lasting impact on both its audience and the genre. By combining personal tragedy with broader societal commentary, the series offers a fresh and innovative take on the genre, ensuring its place in the cultural zeitgeist for years to come. With the release of Cross, audiences can expect a deeply engaging, emotionally charged, and visually stunning exploration of justice that challenges and captivates in equal measure.