“The Rabbit and the Hawk” finds Matlock less a legal drama and more a finely tuned character study disguised as one. This week, the case itself, a wrongful death suit involving a quirky artist and lethal black mold, serves primarily as a backdrop for the interpersonal fireworks within and around the firm. And while the courtroom theatrics are satisfying enough, the real meat lies in the tangled relationships simmering beneath the surface.
Olympia (Skye P. Marshall), tasked with representing the aforementioned artist, finds herself butting heads with none other than Senior (Beau Bridges), whose own client, the building’s shady developer, stands as the defendant. The resulting legal “firewall” supposedly erected between the two sides feels about as sturdy as a cardboard cutout, particularly when Senior’s team attempts to pin the wife’s respiratory problems on the artist’s own art supplies. It’s a low blow, even for a lawyer, and a clear signal of the lengths Senior will go to for a win.
The case eventually swings in the artist’s favor, only for a twist worthy of a late-night soap opera to snatch victory from the jaws of justice. Senior, it turns out, has orchestrated his client’s bankruptcy, rendering the multi-million dollar settlement utterly worthless. It’s a harsh reminder that legal victories don’t always translate to real-world wins, and a testament to the ruthlessness lurking beneath Senior’s avuncular exterior.
Meanwhile, Matty (Kathy Bates), tasked with “hand-holding” the artist, finds herself facing an unexpected proposition of the romantic kind. The widower’s advances, while politely rebuffed, underscore the complexities of Matty’s carefully constructed widow persona. It’s a delicate balancing act, maintaining the facade of grief while simultaneously pursuing her own covert investigation. This delicate balance is further tested by her ongoing conflict with Edwin (Sam Anderson) over Alfie’s involvement in her schemes. Their argument, while painful, feels authentic, thanks to the nuanced performances of Bates and Anderson.
Elsewhere, the episode throws a few bones to the supporting players. Billy’s (David Del Rio) surprise introduction of his long-term girlfriend serves as a gentle nudge to Sarah (Leah Lewis), whose workaholic tendencies and obliviousness continue to provide both humor and pathos. And Elijah’s (Eme Ikwuakor) decision to transfer to the Dallas office, while ostensibly driven by his heartbreak over Olympia, feels more like a narrative convenience than a genuine character development.
The episode culminates with Matty uncovering a crucial piece of the puzzle – Senior’s signature on the document authorizing the removal of key files related to the Wellbrexa opioid lawsuits. It’s a significant step forward in her investigation, but also a chilling reminder of the formidable opponent she faces. As Matty closes in on the truth, one can’t help but wonder how many more casualties will be left in her wake.
The Rabbit and the Hawk was written by Jeffrey Lieber and directed by Kat Coiro.
