High Potential
By Sioph W. Leal
High Potential follows Morgan (Kaitlin Olson), a single mom with three kids and an exceptional mind, who helps solve an unsolvable crime when she rearranges some evidence during her shift as a cleaner for the police department. When they discover she has a knack for putting things in order because of her high intellectual potential, she is brought on as a consultant to work with a by-the-book seasoned detective, Karadec (Daniel Sunjata). Together they form an unusual and unstoppable team.
Detective shows are a dime-a-dozen but rarely is there a standout out. With High Potential, that may all change given the formula of the show. Fans of similar genre will enjoy the familiarity of a weekly crime to solve with a personal mystery for Morgan hanging in the background. The new crime a week has been a common formula for most detective-based shows, but High Potential really does bring a fresh take to it. Morgan isn’t defined by being a single parent, nor does she begrudge the world about it or her situation. Instead, when she is given the chance to shine and showcase her skill set, that truly defines the series.
One of the most enjoyable things about High Potential must be Kaitlin Olsen, who is mostly known for her comedic work. She embodies the fun side of Morgan with the right amount of chaotic, carefree energy that is brilliantly shown through Olsen’s comedic timing and editing of her sleuthing. Balancing out Morgan’s hyperactive brain is Detective Karadec. Sunjata is just as appealing as Olsen, but he brings a calmness to their partnership that really helps to balance the dynamic. Karadec is by-the-book, but rather than overdoing his reluctance to Morgan’s help, it’s refreshing to see a partnership begin without either loathing each other. There is no jealousy, no bitterness from either side of their partnership, and hopefully there is no romantic entanglements between the two in future episodes.
The other part of High Potential focuses on Morgan’s home life with her children Ava (Amirah J) and Elliot (Matthew Lamb). While Elliot is young, he’s inherited his mother’s brain while Ava is struggling with being abandoned by her father fifteen years ago. While Ava is going through the normal teenage struggles, it’s refreshing to have a show that has the main character having a functional, happy family that she doesn’t want to get away from. Morgan does everything she can for her family and with a cast that has great chemistry across the board.
High Potential offers viewers an enjoyable crime drama that doesn’t focus on the bleakness of the crimes that Morgan and Karadec solve. Instead, it showcases how Morgan is an integral part of the team. High Potential proves to be a clever, witty show that has a perfect ensemble.
The first three episodes were watched for review. High Potential premiers on ABC, the series is set to premiere on September 17, 2024.