The coastal communities of Miami and The Keys are the perfect setting for The Finder which airs on FOX (local WSVN Channel 7) on Wednesday nights following American Idol. The character driven, procedural show aims to strike a delicate balance between intrigue and humor. Thanks to a charismatic cast, a unique approach, and some witty dialogue, so far it is succeeding admirably.
In the age where the ante keeps getting upped for sheer intensity indramatic shows (Breaking Bad, American Horror Story etc.), The Finder is a laid back change of pace. It is in many ways a throwback to the light-hearted detective dramas of the ‘70s and ‘80's, but with less cheese and better writing.
The Finder character was introduced in an episode of Bones last season and is based on a series of two books titled The Locator Richard Greener. It is produced by Bones creator and show runner Hart Hanson.
Geoff Stults stars as Walter Sherman, an eccentric private detective of sorts. Walter had an experience in the military that left him with mental issues and a touch of paranoia, but also a savant-like ability to, well, find things.
Veteran film character actor Michael Clarke Duncan is major casting coup as the sidekick. The actor’s booming voice and commanding physical presence helps to give the show a much needed anchor of intensity amidst the fluff. He also has a great sense of comic timing.
Maddie Hasson is spot on as the delinquent gypsy teenager placed in their care. The drop dead gorgeous Mercedes Masöhn plays a U.S. Marshal and she gets some of the best dialogue as Walter's romantic interest and the only straight-laced character among this motley crew of entertaining castoffs.
The Finder’s base of operations, his batcave so to speak is a Tiki bar in Key West. According to Deadline.com and Onlocationvacations.com, The Finder is primarily shot on set in Los Angeles. But whatever footage they did shoot on location for the pilot or establishing shots is well utilized. Last night’s episode The Great Escape used footage of Key Biscayne.
After five episodes The Finder is finding itself as a laid back, smart, funny hour of entertainment with the humid and breezy feel of an Elmore Leonard caper novel set in South Florida. Fans of Bones may want to check this show out.
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