Brooklyn Nine-Nine is one of those miracle-shows that got canceled and came back stronger than ever. With the series closing its final doors with Season eight, it can be said that Brooklyn Nine-Nine had a thrilling roller coaster ride. Perhaps, its initial canceling by Fox was a much-needed push for the show to gain fame.
With Andy Samberg taking on the lead role of detective Jake Peralta, the show began in 2013. However, after just five seasons, Fox canceled this brilliant show, which created a huge spark on the internet. With NBC coming to the rescue the very next day, it was revealed that the series would continue. Interestingly, Brooklyn Nine-Nine went on to become such a massive hit that it received many awards including a Golden Globe Award for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy. What is fascinating is the way in which the show had brilliant progress, and this article will unpack how Brooklyn Nine-Nine became a fan favorite at the end.
The Beginning Might Seem Abrupt and Generic
Brooklyn Nine-Nine opens with Jake and Amy Santiago (Melissa Fumero) investigating a crime scene. It does seem like something one might see on any other crime/detective show. Moreover, the way in which it seemed to be a random opening scene may not have attracted the attention of the viewer at first. However, as the episode progresses, humor starts to take over and the awkwardness between Amy and Jake seems to die off. Of course, this might be a satirical take on other detective shows that tend to portray the detectives and the officers as heroes who are super serious all the time. Nonetheless, the very first episode of the show might not be its best simply because of its ability to throw off the viewer.
Also, the episode seems to portray several characters in a negative light. Amy being one such character, is introduced as a very cocky and rule-abiding detective who is eager to win the attention of the leader. While the last bit is somewhat accurate, this very first introduction does not do justice to Amy's character. Captain Holt (Andre Braugher) was introduced as a strict captain who is all about no-nonsense. All these impressions of the viewers change as the show progresses. While this might not be the very reason why the show had not-so-good live ratings at the beginning, the pilot episode might have not convinced some viewers to tune into Fox to catch the show.
The Character Development and The Development of Characters' Bonds
Fortunately, as the show progressed, the characters had some phenomenal character arcs. In the finale, we see Holt talking about how Terry (Terry Crews) introduced Jake as a brilliant detective whose only mystery was trying to figure out how to grow up. Holt's comment at how Jake has finally figured it out perfectly illustrates the protagonist's character development. From being an immature jester to a responsible father, though not perfect, Jake ended up being one of the best characters in the history of TV shows.
In terms of other characters, it is notable how each and every character's background and personal life was explored. Their flaws and struggles were revealed and in the end, every single character overcame their weaknesses.
On top of this, the bonds between these characters were unpacked. These co-workers ended up developing such a strong bond that the show leaves the viewers with the hope that every single character will return each year to the ninety-ninth precinct to continue the annual Halloween heist.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine: The Most Amazing Geniuses/Humans, Ranked
Explored Real-Life Issues
One commendable element of Brooklyn Nine-Nine was the way in which it tackled important issues. The inclusion of a diverse cast made it easy for them to explore harsh realities by bringing them through the characters' perspectives. From racial discrimination to homophobia, the series looked at these topics from different angles. For example, the discrimination Holt faced due to his sexuality stemmed from his former co-workers, while the discrimination Rosa (Stephanie Beatriz) faced stemmed from her family's inability to accept her sexuality. This added some important analytical frameworks to these issues.
Moreover, the way in which the series still focused on invoking humor while focusing on these issues was superb. The creators ensured that the complex nature of these topics was not taken away through humor. That route is definitely not an easy one to take, but Brooklyn Nine-Nine ended up successfully overcoming the challenge.
Why Brooklyn Nine-Nine Has One of the Best TV Finales Ever
The Final Season Was Nostalgic
It is quite heartbreaking to see one of your favorite TV shows end its run. However, Brooklyn Nine-Nine ensured that their 8th season gave a memorable finale. From exploring more social issues to bringing in some old characters and recreating nostalgic scenarios, the show ensured that it was the perfect goodbye.
Gina's (Chelsea Peretti) entrance during the heist as well as Adrian (Jason Mantzoukas) helping Rosa with the heist was definitely thrilling. Moreover, it is interesting the way in which the characters revisited places which played a prominent role in the previous seasons. Thus, it is perhaps possible to say that Brooklyn Nine-Nine ended with one of the best final seasons ever.