Juan José Campanella: the genius behind the success of "Law & Order: SVU"

Juan José Campanella, a recognized Argentine director and winner of an Oscar, has been a key player in the ongoing success of the series "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," which remains one of the most popular on American television. In an exclusive interview with Saltar Intro from El Comercio, Campanella shares his vision on the impact of the series and reveals some of the keys that have led to its continued relevance on the small screen. With over 20 seasons under its belt, "Law & Order: SVU" has managed to captivate a wide audience over the years, presenting impactful cases and memorable characters that have kept viewers hooked season after season. The director highlights the charisma of Mariska Hargitay, who plays Captain Olivia Benson, as a fundamental factor in the success of the series. The seemingly simple yet effective formula of the series, which combines police work with seeking justice for victims of sexual crimes, has managed to maintain the audience's attention over time. Campanella emphasizes the gradual evolution of the characters and storylines throughout the seasons, keeping the audience engaged without losing the essence of the show. One of the aspects that has stood out in the series' continued success is its ability to address new themes in each episode, allowing viewers to engage with the program without needing to have followed all previous seasons. This thematic versatility, combined with the emotional depth of the characters, has been a determining factor in the longevity of "Law & Order: SVU" on television. The 550th episode of the series, titled "The Prowler," promises to be a highlight in its history, exploring an impactful case that will test the main characters, including Agent Shannah Skyes, portrayed by the talented Jordana Spiro. The episode's plot addresses a sensitive and emotional theme that is sure to resonate with viewers. Campanella highlights Spiro's exceptional work in the episode, mentioning that her performance in a previous chapter was so impactful that it earned her the creation of a recurring character in the series. The actors' ability to convey the emotional complexity of the characters has been crucial to the series' success and its ability to connect with the audience. The Argentine director also emphasizes the series' evolution in terms of representing victims and incorporating more personal aspects of the protagonists, which has added layers of depth to the storylines and allowed for the exploration of ethical and emotional dilemmas in a more complex manner. "Law & Order: SVU" has managed to stay relevant over the years thanks to its ability to adapt to changes and explore new themes without losing its essence. With a combination of impactful cases, memorable characters, and expert direction, the series continues to captivate the audience and promises to continue surprising in future seasons.