Brookyln 99, which first aired on September 13th, 2017, is a workplace sitcom that takes place in the 99th precinct, in Brooklyn, New York. Among the show’s cast members are Andy Samberg, Andre Braugher, Terry Crews, and Melissa Fumero, who act as the main characters of the show.
Season One is especially entertaining. It presents the characters, their stories, and their backgrounds so well that it makes you want to keep watching. Each episode is a different case, ranging from Jake Peralta’s, played by Andy Samberg, favorite pizza place being burned down, or a task to infiltrate a crime family on behalf of the FBI.
Each episode shows a variety of different stories and messages involving each of the characters, going deeper into the detective’s personal lives, ambitions, and family. For example, episode 16, ‘The Party’ brings us into Captain Holt’s (Andre Braugher) personal life, leading the detectives to find out more about their serious captain.
Some episodes, such as the first one, “Pilot” are more lighthearted and comedy based as the squad meets their new captain and gets used to some new rules. Others have a deeper undertone and message about them, such as “The Bet”, where the main character, Jake Peralta, is determined to catch a serial killer he previously encountered, known for his violent and unpredictable nature. Charlotte Haque (‘26), says this is her favorite episode because “The plot in this episode is so well written, and there is still that aspect of humor”.
This episode shows the realities of the case but still showcases the friendships of the main characters. Each episode showcases how the squad has developed close ties with each other, such as how in episode 22, ‘Charges and Specs’, Jakes coworkers rally around him to give support when he is unjustly put on trial. It allows Jake to see how many people care about him, and motivates him to proving himself innocent, and solving the case.
Unlike many of the other episodes, which don’t have as serious “The Bet” shifts its tone to reflect the severityof the case, along with the potential danger and impacts it has on the main characters, as the investigation puts the entire precinct in a vulnerable position. In the end, the episodes always manage to deliver the story well, and each episode is unique and fun to watch.
Overall, if you like shows like The Office, and Parks and Recreation, you will like this show as well. Parks and Recreation has shared similar actors, with both Andy Samberg and Joe Lo Truglio appearing in the show, and the show has a similar feel to it, as both have a workplace comedy format. The Office also has a workplace comedy style, that gives off a similar feel to Brooklyn 99, just without the crime. Overall, the blend of comedy and realism works well, and the characters each have unique stories and personalities that really tie the show together. This was a 10/10, so go watch it!!
