Apple TV+ ‘Presumed Innocent’ Episode 7 Review - Fitting Yet Emotional Penultimate Episode

The penultimate episode of "Presumed Innocent" on Apple TV+, titled "The Witness," continues the gripping narrative as new threads come to life. Jake Gyllenhaal’s portrayal of Rusty Sabich anchors the episode, offering a performance that's as compelling as it is complex.

The episode picks up from the cliffhanger in Episode 6, where Rusty’s lawyer and friend, Raymond Horgan, suffers a medical emergency, casting a shadow over Rusty's defense. This development pushes Rusty further into the corner, making his legal battle even more personal and desperate. Without Horgan, Rusty’s options are limited, and the tension around his potential self-representation heightens the drama.

As the trial unfolds, the courtroom scenes continue to deliver the series' hallmark intensity. The back-and-forth between the prosecution and defense is gripping, showcasing the intricate dance of legal maneuvering and moral ambiguity. These moments are where "Presumed Innocent" truly excels, drawing viewers into the high-stakes environment where every word and gesture can shift the balance.

However, outside the courtroom, the show struggles with its character development, particularly with Rusty's family. The interactions between Rusty and his wife Barbara, played by Ruth Negga, often feel repetitive and melodramatic, detracting from the narrative’s momentum. This soap opera quality can sometimes make the family dynamics feel more like filler than a substantial subplot.

Carolyn Polhemus, the murder victim, remains somewhat of a shadow throughout the series. Seen mainly through Rusty's flashbacks, her character lacks depth, making it hard for viewers to form an emotional connection. This distance lessens the impact of the mystery surrounding her death, which is central to the plot.

Furthermore, the episode suffers from disjointed direction that detracts from its overall impact. The episode struggles to maintain a cohesive narrative flow, particularly evident in uneven pacing and abrupt shifts in tone. The directorial choices sometimes overshadow the nuanced performances, leaving pivotal scenes feeling rushed or underdeveloped. Additionally, while the courtroom sequences are intense, the direction lacks subtlety in exploring deeper character motivations and emotional arcs, resulting in a narrative that feels somewhat hollow and disconnected from the series' earlier strengths.

"The Witness" does a commendable job of maintaining suspense until the very end. The episode's structure keeps the audience guessing, balancing revelations with new questions. Even with some narrative missteps, the penultimate episode ensures that the central mystery remains engaging, and the resolution is both satisfying and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, "The Witness" delivers a fitting lead-up to the finale of "Presumed Innocent," highlighting the series' strengths in courtroom drama and character complexity. While some elements outside the legal arena falter, the penultimate episode ensures that viewers remain invested in Rusty's fate until the very last scene. The episode encapsulates the show's core themes of doubt, guilt, and the quest for truth, leaving a lasting impression despite its flaws.

Final Score - [7/10]