I'm disappointed by some of the reviews here but I'll make my best case for the show. First of all, the music, it's excellent if you like rap music, particularly intelligent rap music. The music is fresh and not regurgitated Common tracks or Public Enemy. Second is the cast, this role has been waiting for Forest Whitaker since the quiet menace of Ghost Dog. He will be compared to James Ganfolfini as Tony Soprano but maybe that's not fair as Ganfolfini grew into the role after years of great writing. Forest Whitaker exudes that kind of hidden strength, much like Vincent D'onofrio did as Kingpin in Daredevil. D'onofrio's Italian gangster in this show is not as intense a character but he certainly comes into the role with a believable presence. Chad Palmantieri is always awesome and Paul Sorvino, it's just so nice to watch Paul Sorvino. Giancarlo Esposito is Amazing, he just chews the scenery in every shot. Nigel Thatch plays Malcolm X in a very credible and subdued way. His sympathy for Whitaker's character, Bumpy Johnson, is complex and intersting to watch develop.
If this show has one flaw it is that the female roles could do much more than they are and the show would be better for it. Antoinette Crowe's performance as Bumpy's estranged daughter from a previous relationship is Emmy worthy, really. A great character with one of the most interesting arcs in the show.
Is it perfect? No. Is it better than Power? Lord yes.
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