Sidebar: A Suits Watch Podcast – Episode Summary Episode: Clearing the Docket with Aaron Korsh & Kevin Bray - Pt. 2
Release Date: February 18, 2025

Introduction

In the second part of their engaging conversation with Suits creator Aaron Korsh and producing director Kevin Bray, hosts Patrick J. Adams and Sarah Rafferty delve deeper into the intricacies of the show’s first season. Building upon the foundational discussions from part one, this episode explores character development, pivotal scenes, production techniques, and the challenges faced during the show's inception.

Character Development: Donna Paulsen’s Arc

Sarah Rafferty reflects on Donna Paulsen’s evolution, particularly focusing on her portrayal from a status-confident woman to someone facing challenges imposed by characters like Malik.

Sarah Rafferty (01:00): "When I'm watching the show, I'm viewing it from my experience in the world as a woman. And what was interesting about Donna until Malik came in and really kind of tried to tear her down status wise..."

Aaron Korsh elaborates on his approach to character dynamics, emphasizing equality and humanity over hierarchical status.

Aaron Korsh (03:15): "I don't think I'm the boss and you're the employee. Right. It never occurs to me until you really piss me off."

This perspective ensures that relationships within the firm remain grounded in mutual respect, a principle that resonates with both Rafferty and the audience.

Challenges Faced During Season One

Aaron Korsh opens up about the personal and professional struggles he encountered while managing the first season.

Aaron Korsh (10:06): "I was chained between home and work. I felt like I was a prisoner of those two things. And it was horrifically difficult for me to balance those things."

Balancing the demands of a new showrunner role with personal life, especially with a young child, presented significant hurdles. Korsh discusses the tension between his vision for the show and the studio’s expectations, highlighting moments of frustration and eventual growth.

Aaron Korsh (13:45): "I had to translate. I knew when we wrote it that in my gut it felt good... But I wasn't able to readily communicate what it is."

Patrick Adams shares his own insecurities and fears of underperforming, which contributed to a tense working environment initially.

Patrick Adams (15:20): "I felt like I was a bit... terrified in every scene that I was going to screw this up."

However, as the season progressed, both Korsh and the cast found ways to navigate these challenges, leading to a more cohesive and confident production team.

Production Techniques: Walk and Talks, Oners, and Blocking

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing the innovative production techniques that gave Suits its distinctive feel. Korsh and Bray explain the deliberate choice to incorporate walk-and-talk scenes and oners (long, uninterrupted shots) to enhance the show's dynamism.

Aaron Korsh (34:28): "The walk and talk and oner are not the same. Right. A oner means you do the walk and talk in one shot."

These techniques not only added a cinematic quality to the show but also served practical purposes, such as reducing shooting time and maintaining narrative energy. The hosts and guests recount specific scenes where these methods were pivotal, like the iconic can opener scene and the interview exchange between Harvey and Mike.

Notable Scenes: The Can Opener and Interview Moments

The can opener scene, a fan favorite, is dissected in detail. Korsh recounts the creative decision to leave certain elements unexplained to maintain intrigue.

Aaron Korsh (26:17): "If you have no break point, then you have to pick just one. But oftentimes it's awesome... But I wouldn't change it. It's part of the charm of the scene."

Rafferty and Adams share their personal experiences filming the scene, highlighting the spontaneity and chemistry that made it memorable.

Patrick Adams (27:30): "I just love that. It's in the film scene."

Additionally, the interview scene where Harvey hires Mike is praised for its strong performances and naturalistic blocking.

Aaron Korsh (37:06): "This scene was another stroke of brilliance... There is nothing, no false moves or inorganic."

These discussions underscore the meticulous planning and improvisational elements that contributed to the scene's success.

Casting Insights: Chemistry Reads and Character Selection

The episode also delves into the casting process, particularly the challenges of finding the right actor for strong, multifaceted roles. Korsh and Bray discuss the "chemistry reads" that were pivotal in selecting actors who could embody the show's complex characters.

Aaron Korsh (63:52): "We had to talk to Dave. This is the woman for the role. And then that was it. So your talent won him over."

Rafferty recounts her own casting experience, emphasizing the importance of mutual recommendation and the producers' trust in her abilities.

Sarah Rafferty (64:56): "I think we're all in agreement. It was a very clear moment."

The hosts highlight how these casting decisions were instrumental in shaping the show's dynamic and ensuring that each character resonated authentically with the audience.

Evolution Across Seasons and Final Thoughts

As the episode draws to a close, the discussion shifts to how the production team adapted based on early reactions and the growing fanbase. Korsh shares insights on maintaining creative integrity despite external pressures.

Aaron Korsh (68:02): "Season one, to me, was a great first chapter... I couldn't be happier with the way it introduces the show and platform."

The hosts express gratitude towards the listeners and express hope for future interactions, reinforcing the familial atmosphere of the podcast community.

Conclusion

This episode of Sidebar: A Suits Watch Podcast offers an in-depth look into the early stages of Suits, revealing the behind-the-scenes efforts that shaped its success. Through candid conversations, notable quotes, and personal anecdotes, Adams and Rafferty provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the show's creation, challenges, and enduring legacy.

Notable Quotes:

• Sarah Rafferty (01:00): "She never apologized for who she was, and she knew she belonged and that she was valued."

• Aaron Korsh (03:15): "We are all human beings. I don't really walk around ever thinking someone is bad beneath me in any way in life."

• Aaron Korsh (10:06): "I felt like I was a prisoner of those two things. And it was horrifically difficult for me to balance those things."

• Aaron Korsh (26:17): "But I wouldn't change it. It's part of the charm of the scene."

• Patrick Adams (27:30): "I just love that. It's in the film scene."

• Aaron Korsh (37:06): "There is nothing, no false moves or inorganic."

• Sarah Rafferty (64:56): "I think we're all in agreement. It was a very clear moment."

These insightful quotes capture the essence of the discussions, highlighting the dedication, challenges, and creative choices that defined the first season of Suits.