When I think of romance, I think of Korean dramas. But when it comes to thrillers, American TV series reign supreme. It feels like the U.S. has mastered the art of crafting new crimes, twisted characters, and unforgettable narratives. These shows feed my thriller obsession, pulling me into their world day after day. Yet, not all American thrillers rely on grim serial killers or last-minute plot twists. How to Get Away with Murder is different - it’s a gripping tale that intertwines crime, societal issues, and raw human complexity.
The premise is straightforward: a group of ambitious law students learns the art of defending clients in murder cases, only to find themselves entangled in one. At the center is Annalise Keating, their enigmatic professor, who isn’t just teaching them legal tricks but inadvertently drags them into her own dark secrets.
The series structure isn’t groundbreaking - the central murder case serves as the show’s spine, with episodic side cases adding flavor. Right from the start, you know the students are guilty of murder. Flashbacks and real-time scenes intertwine, creating a whirlwind of confusion in the early episodes. But when episode five hits and the victim’s identity is revealed, the pieces start to fall into place. From then on, each episode packs a twist so addictive that stopping at just one feels impossible (trust me, I’ve tried).
What makes the show shine isn’t just its thrilling cases but its characters - flawed, raw, and achingly human.
Wes: Naïve, earnest, and relatable.
Laurel: Smart and reserved but caught in the web of her emotions.
Connor: Charismatic, bold, and irresistible to the men around him.
Michaela: Fierce and ambitious, fighting for her dream life with her aristocratic fiancé.
Asher: Privileged, brash, and hilariously out of touch.
Annalise: A force of nature, blending ruthless logic with deep vulnerability.
From the outset, it’s clear: this group isn’t here to make friends. Each character is out for themselves, stepping over anyone in their way. The Keating 5 isn’t about camaraderie or justice - it’s a survival game where alliances are fleeting and morality is a luxury no one can afford.
Annalise is the heart of the show, and her portrayal feels revolutionary. Gone is the trope of the glamorous, flawless lead. Annalise is a tall, muscular African-American woman whose every move exudes power. She’s a departure from the polished, slim, blonde heroines we’ve seen too often.
Annalise represents a broader reality - one where women don’t all have perfect figures, flawless skin, or dainty features. She’s real, relatable, and unapologetically herself. The most unforgettable scene? When Annalise discovers her husband’s betrayal, sits in front of a mirror, and slowly wipes off her makeup and removes her wig. It’s raw, painful, and symbolic of her vulnerability. It also breaks the illusion of perfection so often perpetuated in film and TV.
The show doesn’t just entertain; it seamlessly weaves in themes of feminism, gender equality, and LGBTQ+ representation. Connor’s relationship is beautifully normalized - no melodrama, no over-explaining, just love. Michaela’s ambition and unapologetic drive are refreshing. And Annalise’s character is a celebration of diversity and realness, giving a voice to women who don’t fit Hollywood’s narrow mold.
Despite its rich social commentary, How to Get Away with Murder never loses sight of its roots as a crime drama. The suspense, clever twists, and emotional weight will keep you hooked, even when minor plot holes crop up.
The first season leaves you wanting more, and the promise of a new case this September means the story is far from over.
Comments