Special Ops: Lioness is a new thriller series on Paramount+ that focuses on an elite team led by CIA agent Joe, played by Zoe Saldaña. The team, named Lioness, infiltrates terrorist groups by using undercover operatives to gain the trust of their wives and daughters. One of the newest recruits is Cruz, portrayed by Laysla De Oliveira, who embodies the stereotypical strong female character. She is physically capable, emotionally reserved, conventionally attractive, and initially portrayed as a damsel in distress.
Although the series only provides a glimpse into the characters and storyline in its first episode, it is clear that Special Ops: Lioness aims to meet broad palatable standards rather than offer anything genuinely interesting. The moral universe of the show seems oversimplified, portraying America as good and terrorists as bad, with war-torn Middle Eastern countries depicted with a perpetually yellow tint. Hopefully, future storylines will introduce more nuanced perspectives and shades of gray. Additionally, the characters currently lack depth, but this may be developed as the series progresses. The brief appearances of Nicole Kidman as Joe’s CIA boss and the anticipated introduction of Morgan Freeman offer potential for compelling performances.
Despite its shortcomings, Special Ops: Lioness does have some redeeming qualities. De Oliveira brings depth to her character, Cruz, suggesting hidden layers that the script has yet to explore. The dynamic between Cruz and Joe, portrayed by Saldaña, is intriguing, as Cruz challenges Joe’s authority with her stoicism and defiance. Saldaña effectively portrays the contrast between Joe’s icy professional demeanor and her softer private moments, such as when she visits her estranged family.
However, much of the show falls flat due to indifference, lack of imagination, and a lackluster script. The action scenes, directed by John Hillcoat, are forgettable and sometimes confusing. The dialogue is formulaic and fails to showcase the personalities of the characters. Scenes that could have been opportunities for character development are filled with clichés and uninspiring lines. The show seems to assume that most viewers will only be half-engaged, scrolling through social media while watching. As a result, details, such as the timeline of events, become inconsistent and confusing for viewers who pay closer attention.
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One aspect of Special Ops: Lioness that is evident regardless of viewer engagement is its overt reverence for the U.S. Marine Corps. The show feels like an extended recruitment advertisement, emphasizing the Corps’ strength and dedication to protecting the weak. While a more thoughtful drama might explore the complexities and potential misuses of this mercilessness, Special Ops: Lioness simplistically embraces it. The characters’ mission is unquestioningly portrayed as noble, and any potential ethical concerns are dismissed with the mantra, “if you ain’t cheating, you ain’t trying.” This mindset aligns with the series’ focus on unattainable ideals rather than genuine exploration of human nature and lived experiences.
In a time when even Barbie confronts the contradiction between fantasy and reality, Special Ops: Lioness appears to be populated by plastic action figures. The series tries too hard to meet a broadly appealing standard and fails to offer anything truly compelling or thought-provoking. Its lackluster execution and adherence to conventional tropes make it difficult to recommend to viewers seeking more innovative and engaging storytelling.
