For Life

Watch For Life

  • TV-14
  • 2020
  • 2 Seasons
  • 7.6  (8,881)

For Life is a powerful and moving legal drama that made its debut on ABC in February 2020. Set in New York City, the show is loosely based on the real-life story of Isaac Wright Jr., a man who was wrongfully convicted of drug trafficking and yet managed to become a licensed lawyer and win his freedom. The lead character in the show is Aaron Wallace, played by Nicholas Pinnock. Aaron is a talented and ambitious African-American man with a wife named Marie (Joy Bryant) and a daughter named Jasmine (Tyla Harris). However, his life takes a dramatic turn when he is falsely accused of a drug-related crime and sentenced to life in prison without parole. This devastating event shatters his dreams and endangers his family, but Aaron refuses to give up hope. Determined to prove his innocence and regain his freedom, Aaron begins to study law and fight for justice from behind bars. He is helped by a talented and dedicated team of lawyers, including his former wife and now public defender, Marie, and the charismatic and ambitious Safiya Masry, played by Indira Varma. Together, they work tirelessly to uncover new evidence, expose corrupt officials, and challenge the broken criminal justice system that failed Aaron and countless others like him. For Life is a heart-wrenching and inspiring story of resilience, perseverance, and the enduring power of hope. It tackles important themes such as racial inequality, systemic injustice, and the role of the media in shaping public opinion about crime and punishment. The show does not shy away from showing the harsh realities of life in prison, from physical violence and emotional trauma to the human cost of isolation and dehumanization. However, it also celebrates the strength and dignity of the human spirit, as Aaron and his fellow inmates find ways to support each other, learn new skills, and maintain their humanity in the face of adversity. The performances in For Life are outstanding, especially the central role of Nicholas Pinnock, who brings depth, compassion, and authenticity to the character of Aaron. He convincingly portrays the challenges and contradictions of being a convicted criminal who is also a brilliant lawyer and a loving father. Joy Bryant is equally impressive as Marie, whose journey from resentful ex-wife to loyal ally is one of the highlights of the show. Indira Varma excels as Safiya, a smart and savvy lawyer who shares Aaron's passion for justice and his determination to challenge the status quo. The supporting cast, including Mary Stuart Masterson, Boris McGiver, Dorian Missick, Glenn Fleshler, Timothy Busfield, and John Doman, are also superb, adding layers of complexity and nuance to their respective roles. The production values of For Life are impressive, with high-quality cinematography, editing, and sound design that enhance the emotional impact of the story. The show's use of flashbacks, dream sequences, and voiceovers adds depth and texture to the narrative, revealing new layers of character development and plot twists. The soundtrack is also notable, featuring a mix of contemporary and classic songs that add resonance to the themes and moods of the scenes. Overall, For Life is an outstanding drama that deserves to be watched and appreciated by a wide audience. It offers a unique perspective on the criminal justice system, one that is both critical and empathetic, and raises important questions about the role of law, morality, and humanity in the face of overwhelming adversity. Whether you are a fan of legal dramas, social justice issues, or simply want to be moved and inspired by a powerful story, this show is definitely worth your time and attention.

For Life
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Seasons
Andy Josiah
10. Andy Josiah
February 24, 2021
Aaron and his legal team face their toughest trial yet as they prosecute the police officer responsible for the killing of an innocent, unarmed Black man.
The Blue Wall
9. The Blue Wall
February 17, 2021
With Aaron and Marie facing threats from an increasingly hostile community, Aaron and his team double down by pursuing criminal charges against a high-ranking police officer they believe tried to cover up the shooting.
For the People
8. For the People
February 10, 2021
Aaron faces pressure from all sides when he is forced to decide which charges to bring against the officers responsible for the killing of an unarmed civilian. While Safiya pursues video evidence that could change their case, Roswell searches for a way to move the case from Staten Island to a friendlier venue.
Say His Name
7. Say His Name
February 3, 2021
Aaron takes on the case of an unarmed man shot by a police officer. Safiya represents Ronnie after he's arrested and roughed up by law enforcement, and the family struggles with whether to have Aaron Jr. baptized.
354
6. 354
January 27, 2021
After an urgent call from Bellmore concerning the growing COVID-19 pandemic, Aaron enlists Safiya's help and heads back to the prison to investigate. Meanwhile Marie faces a choice: Expose her family to the virus or go all-in at the hospital.
Collars for Dollars
5. Collars for Dollars
December 16, 2020
After Aaron and Roswell agree to help a young woman facing deportation for a minor crime, they realize her case could be a key to exposing a broad pattern of police corruption. Meanwhile, Jasmine begins to spend more time at Ronnie's house and Marie grapples with the first signs of an empty nest.
Time to Move Forward
4. Time to Move Forward
December 9, 2020
As a favor to Jamal, Aaron defends a man in a witness tampering case, while tensions rise at home in the run-up to the Wallace family Thanksgiving.
The Necessity Defense
3. The Necessity Defense
December 2, 2020
At the urging of Spencer Richardson, Aaron defends a woman charged with holding hospital workers at gunpoint to secure lifesaving treatment for her son. Aaron and Marie navigate their newly intimate relationship, and a young social justice warrior joins Aaron and Roswell's firm.
Homecoming
2. Homecoming
November 25, 2020
A newly liberated man, Aaron acclimates to family life outside of prison. As he attempts to help Jamal with his case, Aaron encounters Jamal's sister who needs legal help of her own. Former nemesis Spencer Richardson proposes an intriguing work opportunity to Aaron and Roswell.
Never Stop Fighting
1. Never Stop Fighting
November 18, 2020
After nine years of fighting to win his freedom, it's do or die for Aaron Wallace. As dangerous enemies lurk at Bellmore and Marie faces criminal charges for assisting Aaron in prior cases, Aaron must find a way to gain the upper hand on Maskins.
Description

For Life is a powerful and moving legal drama that made its debut on ABC in February 2020. Set in New York City, the show is loosely based on the real-life story of Isaac Wright Jr., a man who was wrongfully convicted of drug trafficking and yet managed to become a licensed lawyer and win his freedom.

The lead character in the show is Aaron Wallace, played by Nicholas Pinnock. Aaron is a talented and ambitious African-American man with a wife named Marie (Joy Bryant) and a daughter named Jasmine (Tyla Harris). However, his life takes a dramatic turn when he is falsely accused of a drug-related crime and sentenced to life in prison without parole. This devastating event shatters his dreams and endangers his family, but Aaron refuses to give up hope.

Determined to prove his innocence and regain his freedom, Aaron begins to study law and fight for justice from behind bars. He is helped by a talented and dedicated team of lawyers, including his former wife and now public defender, Marie, and the charismatic and ambitious Safiya Masry, played by Indira Varma. Together, they work tirelessly to uncover new evidence, expose corrupt officials, and challenge the broken criminal justice system that failed Aaron and countless others like him.

For Life is a heart-wrenching and inspiring story of resilience, perseverance, and the enduring power of hope. It tackles important themes such as racial inequality, systemic injustice, and the role of the media in shaping public opinion about crime and punishment. The show does not shy away from showing the harsh realities of life in prison, from physical violence and emotional trauma to the human cost of isolation and dehumanization. However, it also celebrates the strength and dignity of the human spirit, as Aaron and his fellow inmates find ways to support each other, learn new skills, and maintain their humanity in the face of adversity.

The performances in For Life are outstanding, especially the central role of Nicholas Pinnock, who brings depth, compassion, and authenticity to the character of Aaron. He convincingly portrays the challenges and contradictions of being a convicted criminal who is also a brilliant lawyer and a loving father. Joy Bryant is equally impressive as Marie, whose journey from resentful ex-wife to loyal ally is one of the highlights of the show. Indira Varma excels as Safiya, a smart and savvy lawyer who shares Aaron's passion for justice and his determination to challenge the status quo. The supporting cast, including Mary Stuart Masterson, Boris McGiver, Dorian Missick, Glenn Fleshler, Timothy Busfield, and John Doman, are also superb, adding layers of complexity and nuance to their respective roles.

The production values of For Life are impressive, with high-quality cinematography, editing, and sound design that enhance the emotional impact of the story. The show's use of flashbacks, dream sequences, and voiceovers adds depth and texture to the narrative, revealing new layers of character development and plot twists. The soundtrack is also notable, featuring a mix of contemporary and classic songs that add resonance to the themes and moods of the scenes.

Overall, For Life is an outstanding drama that deserves to be watched and appreciated by a wide audience. It offers a unique perspective on the criminal justice system, one that is both critical and empathetic, and raises important questions about the role of law, morality, and humanity in the face of overwhelming adversity. Whether you are a fan of legal dramas, social justice issues, or simply want to be moved and inspired by a powerful story, this show is definitely worth your time and attention.

For Life is a series that is currently running and has 2 seasons (23 episodes). The series first aired on February 11, 2020.

Where to Watch For Life

For Life is available for streaming on the ABC (US) website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch For Life on demand at Google Play and Apple TV.

  • Premiere Date
    February 11, 2020
  • IMDB Rating
    7.6  (8,881)