Netflix’s ‘Strip Law’ Courts Xennial Viewers with Pop Culture Barrage

Netflix’s animated comedy Strip Law, created by Cullen Crawford (a veteran of The Late Show), debuted on February 20th and immediately distinguished itself with a relentless stream of pop culture references. The 10-episode first season appears geared toward a specific audience—those who appreciate obscure nods to past entertainment and cultural moments.

A Las Vegas Legal Comedy Unlike Others

The series centres on Lincoln Gumb (voiced by Adam Scott), the son of a deceased Las Vegas legal legend. Haunted by his mother’s memory, a former legal partner (Keith David as Steven Nichols), and his own professional shortcomings, Lincoln seeks to establish himself in the city’s competitive legal scene. He enlists Sheila Flambé (Janelle James), a magician’s assistant overlooked by the industry, to help him inject some “pizzazz” into his legal practice.

Lincoln, Sheila, Lincoln’s weight-lifting niece Irene, and a disbarred lawyer named Glem Blochman form an unconventional legal team operating out of a strip mall office. The show’s structure often features “A” and “B” storylines, allowing for multiple comedic threads to develop simultaneously.

References as a Core Component

Strip Law doesn’t shy away from referencing a wide range of media. The show frequently alludes to The Simpsons, Stanley Kubrick films, and even CBS’s Bull. Some cases presented in the show, such as a divorce involving a mentalist, attempt to capture the essence of Las Vegas, while others, like a dispute between two individuals claiming to be Santa Claus, feel less connected to the setting.

The series also references Franklin & Bash and Boston Public, suggesting a strong influence from legal dramas of the 1990s and 2000s. The show’s creators appear more interested in commenting on the tropes of the televised lawyer genre than subverting them.

Character Development and Animation Style

Despite a talented voice cast including Adam Scott, Janelle James, Stephen Root, and Shannon Gisela, the characters in Strip Law are described as feeling underdeveloped. A new paralegal, Kevin, is introduced seemingly at random, mirroring the lack of clear origins for other characters. The animation, produced by Titmouse studio, is described as “hit-and-miss,” with occasional stylistic shifts, such as a parody of the California Raisins, offering glimpses of potential.

What’s Next for ‘Strip Law’?

The final two episodes of the first season hinted at a more promising creative direction. If renewed, the show could potentially build upon these developments, deepening the characterizations and exploring more original storylines. However, it’s also possible that Strip Law will continue to prioritize references over narrative depth, catering to its niche audience. A second season may further lean into the meta-commentary on legal dramas, or it could attempt to broaden its appeal by developing more relatable characters and storylines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ‘Strip Law’ about?

Strip Law is an animated comedy about Lincoln Gumb, a Las Vegas lawyer who hires a magician’s assistant to help him succeed in the city’s legal world.

Who created ‘Strip Law’?

The show was created by Cullen Crawford, a writer with experience on The Late Show.

What kind of humor does ‘Strip Law’ employ?

The show relies heavily on pop culture references, particularly those that may appeal to a Xennial audience.

Given the show’s emphasis on recognising cultural touchstones, do you think a series like ‘Strip Law’ thrives on shared nostalgia or risks alienating viewers unfamiliar with the references?