The Closer is a “Live Wire”

Wow.  I have to admit I am beginning to appreciate this show.  Last Monday’s episode, “Live Wire,” was very well-written, characterized by an intricate story line and lots of plot twists.

The show begins with the discovery of a most intriguing John Doe, a murder victim who was wearing a wire, similar to the type worn by undercover police officers and confidential informants.  A handy bit of sleuthing from Detective Provenza reveals John Doe’s identity, and the investigation is underway.  It turns out that the victim is entangled in a far-reaching drug enterprise, and Brenda and the rest of the crew become involved in a high-stakes search to find his killer.  What I enjoy about The Closer is that although it is clear from the outset that Brenda is in charge, each character is an integral part of the investigation, with no particular person being more important than the next.  It is truly a collaborative effort, which lends an air of authenticity to the show.  Brenda does not single-handedly solve the case; rather she parcels out investigatory tasks to each officer, running a tight ship and establishing a no-nonsense cohesive nature to the process.

The problem with most police procedural dramas is that they begin to feel formulaic, but The Closer manages to keep you interested with its high level of plausibility.  Nothing about the storyline feels forced – you just have a group of intelligent, resourceful police officers who work through a case methodically and logically.  The writers also introduce elements of Brenda’s personal life, which breaks up the monotony of always seeing her in “cop mode.”  Unfortunately for Brenda, she brings her police officer mentality into her home life, and her romantic relationship suffers as a result.  It’s almost like she can’t shut off her competitive switch.  It’s been said that lawyers shouldn’t date each other.  Perhaps law enforcement officers shouldn’t date each other either, if Brenda and Fritz’ relationship is any indication.  When Fritz finds out that Brenda’s case implicates a notorious drug lord, he wants in.  He gives Brenda valuable information to make her case, in exchange for permission to be present when the unit apprehends their suspect.  Brenda uses Fritz’ information to her advantage, and then betrays him by not fulfilling her end of the bargain.  This culminates in a very painful, real argument between the two in their home, and the scene showed a more vulnerable, flawed aspect of Brenda’s personality.  We see that the very characteristics that make her an effective interrogator (aggressive, cunning) are the same ones that will probably lead to the demise of her relationship.  This scene appeared to have been filmed using a hand-held camera, and the herky-jerky shooting style lent a voyeuristic vibe – a noticeable and effective shift that made the scene feel all the more real.

The Closer is a riveting show with enough layers to keep you interested.  Brenda is a multi-dimensional character who is as endearing as she is exasperating, and I like the writers’ exploration of the different facets of her personality.  Bolstered by a strong supporting cast, it is one of the better original shows on network TV right now.  I think I’ve been converted!