Law enforcement remains a controversial topic in society, but television shows like “Blue Bloods,” “The Rookie,” and “Chicago P.D.” continue to capture the audience’s attention with their gripping cop procedurals. Adding to this genre is the new Prime Video series, “On Call,” created by Tim Walsh and Elliot Wolf. This scripted streaming series is the first of its kind from Wolf Entertainment, known for its popular crime dramas. The show follows the journey of veteran training officer Tracie Harmon, played by Troian Bellisario, and her rookie trainee Alex Diaz, portrayed by Brandon Larracuente, as they respond to various emergencies in Long Beach.
From the outset, “On Call” attempts to break away from the traditional cop procedural format, but falls short of its potential. Officer Diaz’s first day at the West Side Division of the Long Beach Police Department pairs him with the no-nonsense Officer Harmon, who faces resistance from her fellow officers, especially Sergeant Lasman. Together, they navigate through different calls, ranging from overdoses to domestic violence incidents, offering a glimpse into the daily challenges faced by law enforcement officers.
One of the main drawbacks of “On Call” is its episode length, with each episode running for 30 minutes or less. This short runtime limits character development and meaningful dialogue, leaving supporting characters as mere caricatures. Additionally, the stylistic choices, such as the constant use of body camera point of view and grayscale coloring, detract from the overall viewing experience.
Despite its flaws, Episode 5, “Not Your Savior,” stands out as a highlight, showcasing the tension between Diaz and Harmon and the harrowing situations they encounter. While Bellisario delivers a solid performance as Officer Harmon, the character’s evolution is constrained by the script. Furthermore, Lori Loughlin’s character, Lieutenant Bishop, lacks substantial screen time, despite being billed as a significant return to television.
“On Call” effectively portrays the toll that constant exposure to violence and chaos takes on law enforcement officials’ mental health. While Harmon excels at compartmentalizing her emotions, Diaz struggles with impulsivity and managing stress. The series could benefit from exploring the officers’ personal lives outside of work to humanize them further.
In delving into the daily routine of police work, “On Call” captures the constant challenges and decisions officers face while on duty. However, the series falls short of fully exploring its characters and the complex dynamics within the East Barrio gang. Despite its realistic portrayal of police work, the show can feel stressful and mechanical, lacking the depth needed to engage viewers fully.
The eight episodes of “On Call” are set to premiere on Prime Video on Jan. 9, offering a unique perspective on the realities of law enforcement.
