Watch Get Shorty

Get Shorty is an American television series that premiered on the EPIX network in August 2017. The show is based on the 1990 novel of the same name by Elmore Leonard, which was also adapted into a 1995 film starring John Travolta, Rene Russo, and Gene Hackman. The television series stars Chris O'Dowd, Ray Romano, Sean Bridgers, and Lidia Porto among others, and it has earned critical acclaim for its performances, script, and direction.

The plot of Get Shorty follows Miles Daly (O'Dowd), a former mobster who decides to leave his criminal past behind in order to become a movie producer. Daly's motivation is to use the funds from his criminal activities to finance his film productions. However, his new career proves to be even more dangerous than his old one as he finds himself entangled in the complicated and often violent world of Hollywood.

Alongside Daly is Rick Moreweather (Romano), a washed-up producer who teams up with him to make a movie. Moreweather is an ambitious individual who has tried and failed multiple times in the industry, and sees Daly as his ticket to success. The duo embarks on a journey of deceit and schemes to make their dream project a reality.

Throughout the show, Daly and Moreweather run into numerous difficulties, including dealing with actors with large egos, challenging directors, and competing producers. The twists and turns of the plot explore the underbelly of the film industry, highlighting the power plays and darker aspects of the business. However, Daly and Moreweather's biggest challenge comes in the form of the criminal underworld they both left behind, which threatens to catch up with them and derail all their plans.

The show is also driven by an excellent supporting cast, including Sean Bridgers as Louis, Daly's former associate who is sent to LA to check on his progress, and Lidia Porto as Amara de Escalones, a cartel boss who becomes interested in investing in Daly's projects. The intertwining of the criminal underworld's activities with Hollywood's chaos creates a delightful balance of tension, humor, and drama.

Get Shorty's writing is sharp, witty, and full of interesting characters who jump off the screen. The showrunner, Davey Holmes, captures the nostalgia of the 1990s while making the story feel current and relevant. He also maintains a consistent tone that strikes a balance between comedy and drama, creating a unique blend that is both entertaining and engrossing.

The performances of the lead actors, Chris O'Dowd and Ray Romano, are the centerpiece of the show. O'Dowd's tough-guy demeanor mixed with his comedic timing make him an instant favorite for the audience, while Romano's portrayal of a desperate, washed-up producer is a refreshing change from his usual roles. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable, with their dialogue bouncing along effortlessly and humorously.

Get Shorty is a stylish, sharply written, and well-acted television series that explores the intriguing intersection of the criminal underworld and Hollywood. The show balances the drama and the humor perfectly, making it a thrilling ride, perfect for fans of gritty crime shows and movie making. Overall, Get Shorty is a must-watch television series that deserves every bit of praise it has received.

Get Shorty is a series that is currently running and has 3 seasons (27 episodes). The series first aired on August 13, 2017.