The Evil Lawyer, a Thai crime-thriller-courtroom drama on Netflix, introduces Jittri (Rhatha Phongam), a pantomime villain in a power suit with an oversized ego. Known for using dirty tricks to free guilty clients, she struts in slow motion, flashes a crooked smirk, and wears sunglasses indoors. But beneath the hamminess lies a gripping, twisty plot directed by Nottapon Boonprakob.
Plot and Characters
The series opens with Jittri successfully defending a client who stole a stillborn baby, arguing the child was a “scrap of flesh.” She gets blood thrown on her by protesters, staining lawyer Mek (Nat Kitcharit), who becomes her reluctant ally. Mek, an ethical lawyer working pro bono, is framed for murder by corrupt police chief Anan and faces the death penalty. Jittri offers to represent him for free if he works on her cases, forcing him to compromise his morals.
These cases explore societal inequality and justice limits. Mek uncovers abuse of migrant workers, aided by ex-girlfriend Ang, who consults for a powerful party. Mek’s father, a judge, has history with Anan. Jittri’s backstory reveals her manipulation stems from the legal system’s failures.
Direction and Performances
Boonprakob’s script, co-written with five others, holds together multiple plot lines. The action is well-paced with creative time-freeze segments. Bangkok settings range from backstreets to fish markets to a replica of the Criminal Court. Kitcharit excels as the desperate Mek, and Phongam adds layers to Jittri. Supporting cast shines, especially Ploy Siriudomset as a rape victim delivering heartbreaking testimony.
Tonal Issues
The show suffers from tonal bumps. The soundtrack overuses drum climaxes, and subtext can be heavy-handed, like Anan snapping a toothpick while threatening someone. Legal loopholes strain credulity despite research. Levity from two oafish brothers feels misplaced, though a hammy flashback with lying witnesses is amusing.
While not the most artful series, The Evil Lawyer is compelling. I will stream the final two episodes to see if Jittri keeps her fabulous perm. Available now on Netflix.
