Special Ops: Lioness Review

Special Ops: Lioness attempts to balance the personal and professional lives of its main character, Joe, who is portrayed as the tip of the spear in the CIA’s war on terrorism. Although the series aims to portray the harsh realities of special operations, it has faced criticism for its characterization and storytelling. Real military advisors were brought in to lend authenticity to the show’s depictions of weapons handling, house cleaning, and other tactical maneuvers. This attention to detail is commendable, but does it make up for the show’s shortcomings?

Characterization and Plot Development

One of the major points of contention among viewers is the portrayal of the character’s thin nature. Critics have argued that Joe is written as a highly capable character, reminiscent of a “supergirl” or even a “terminator.” While strong female leads can be empowering, her lack of depth makes it difficult for viewers to connect with her. Rather than being a relatable character, she often comes across as unsympathetic and overly adept, detracting from the realism the show aims to achieve.

Execution of the Operation

Another major flaw in Special Operations: Lioness” is the ineptitude of the special agents. From the very first scene, where they allow the insurgents to attack before they realize they might be hostile, the team continually makes decisions that raise eyebrows. This portrayal risks undermining the show’s credibility, especially since it’s billed as a realistic portrayal of military operations. The plot seems to hinge on the idea that something has to go wrong to create drama, but the scale of the agents’ mistakes can be hard to swallow.