The Good, the Bad, and the What Could Have Been - "FBI" Season 1

Hey everyone! I've been tuning into "FBI", the procedural drama from the mind of Dick Wolf, the creator who's practically synonymous with gripping crime television. I've been watching it since its series premier in 2018 and I think being one of the crime procedurals that I am currently watching, it is just justified to feature this show in my posts.

Set in the bustling heart of New York City, this series takes us inside the intense and high-stakes world of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's New York office, where every day brings a new challenge for the dedicated agents keeping America safe.

The People Behind

Dick Wolf, the legendary creator of the "Law & Order" franchise, brings his signature procedural mastery to "FBI." Known for his ability to craft compelling, ripped-from-the-headlines drama, Wolf's venture in the FBI space (as many of his creations are in the police force) is no exception. The show was initially penned by Craig Turk and saw a showrunner shift to Greg Plageman, promising a blend of Wolf's tried-and-true formula with a fresh perspective on the crime genre

The Cast

• Missy Peregrym shines as Special Agent Maggie Bell, a role that allows her to channel the same kind of strong, complex female lead she's known for from her "Rookie Blue" days.
• Zeeko Zaki plays her partner, Special Agent Omar Adom 'OA' Zidan, bringing a nuanced performance that complements Peregrym's Bell. This is probably the first time I encountered his name as I haven't seen his other shows
• Ebonée Noel as Analyst Kristen Chazal and Jeremy Sisto as Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jubal Valentine round out the team with performances that add depth and authenticity to the ensemble.
• Sela Ward joins the cast in the second episode as Dana Mosier, stepping into the leadership role with the gravitas and experience she's known for. It's good to see her after watching her stint in CSI.

_{Screenshot taken from IMDB website}

The Plot

Season 1 throws us into the thick of it from the get-go, with an explosion in a residential building that sets the tone for the series. The agents of the FBI's New York office, led by the dynamic duo of Bell and Zidan, tackle a wide array of cases, from terrorism to organized crime. While the series primarily focuses on the case-of-the-week format, it also gives us glimpses into the personal lives and backstories of the agents, adding a human element to the high-octane drama.

The Good

The series' strength lies in its ability to deliver adrenaline-pumping action and complex investigations that keep you guessing until the very end. The cast's chemistry is palpable, with Peregrym and Zaki leading the charge with compelling performances. The show also doesn't shy away from contemporary issues, weaving them into the narrative in a way that feels both relevant and thought-provoking.

_{Screenshot taken from IMDB website}

The Bad

However, I noticed that there are occasions that the dialogue and setup a bit static, with the characters sometimes struggling to connect with each other and the audience. Additionally, the procedural format can feel overly familiar to fans of Wolf's previous work, lacking the kind of narrative twists and character development that make for truly standout television. With me always watching procedurals, there are times that the plot can be easily predictable.

The What Could Have Been

While "FBI" delivers on the action front, it could have benefited from richer character development and a deeper dive into the agents' personal lives, something that viewers have found lacking in the first season. A more serialized storyline, or subplots among the characters, perhaps focusing on a single overarching case, might have added a layer of complexity and urgency to the show.

Conclusion

In sum, "FBI" Season 1 is a solid addition to the crime procedural landscape, offering up the kind of dependable, if somewhat formulaic, entertainment that Dick Wolf is known for. It's a show that will likely appeal to fans of the genre looking for a straightforward, case-driven series with a competent cast and high production values. While it may not break new ground, it's a reliable watch for those who enjoy a good crime drama with a side of action. Whether you're in it for the thrill of the chase or the satisfaction of seeing justice served, "FBI" is worth giving a shot.

That's all folks, thank you for taking time to read my piece and I hope you got something from it.