Went into this without having any idea it was even a new TV series I just saw the banner ad whilst looking through something to watch one night when I couldn't sleep. Did initially groan a little bit internally in the hope this wasn't going to be watching a brilliant Judge now way beyond her best before but actually, I was pleasantly surprised. It does take a few episodes to warm and get the gist of her new setup so if you're not aversely affected by the first one, give it time and watch a few more before giving it the death penalty.
First thing I noticed is how well she looks. Whether it's been the time off, a bit of work done or just the change of colour in robes and the set or whatever - she looks really well, freshened up and brighter in general.
I then noticed a change in Bailiff which I was really glad to see. Byrd seems to have been really popular with most people and his departure is what I gather irks and has gone down badly with many. I personally never liked him nor understood how and why Judge Judy would have him behave and conduct himself the way he did in her court. He wasn't some jumped up nightclub bouncer hired for TV - he was a law enforcement officer and court bailiff so the unprofessional swagger, attitude and arrogance was so unprofessional and unnecessary.
Anyway he's gone and in his place a super sweet bailiff Kevin who is polite, well mannered, attentive and not leaning against the set doing crosswords or whatever.
The two young ladies sat at either side of her I didn't quite get at first and felt like they could have been a token addition but it turns out they do have a place and role both of which are good additions. One is the court reporter providing transcription to allow Judge Judy clarification of an exact quote or statement someone said. The other is the clerk with access to internet and relevant databases to check specific queries and provide accurate information on the spot.
The feel, tone and pace is a little slower than with the older shows but again, I think that works better as she does allow that bit more time to speak with each person, go through the basic info and gist of their case. She's not softened or lost her touch by any means - she's just toned down the yelling and belittling and I don't think there's been any real hand banging / chair bouncing as yet but she's still very much got the old trademark "Shhhhhhhh!!!" and "Just a second..."
What I really dislike is the little girly chit-chat she has right at the end in her chambers with one of the girls (not sure if it's her granddaughter but that's irrelevant) The credits roll and as before, each side has their little swipe at the other over the outcome and then it cuts to them having a little two or three minute chat about the case and its outcome. Why? Who did that and why?
It feels like Jerry Springer's "Final Thought" and just forced, naff and lets down each episode right at the very last as well. Maybe a second series will have tweaked and ironed out the creases but that little couple of minutes for BFF girly chat in chambers needs to go.
