On Call: Season 1 Episode 1 – Recap and Review | A Potentially Different Kind Of Cop Show
In Prime Video’s “On Call,” we see neither a damning nor push to see police officers as heroes – thus giving a sense of humanity most other shows miss.
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Quick Recap
Coming from a small police class, Alex Diaz is a rookie/trainee who needs someone like Traci Harmon as a mentor and partner. However, she is hardened, hurt, and has a reputation that precedes her. Together, the two do good work, and operating with someone like Alex, who is a bit more optimistic, might be good for Harmon.
However, every time he tries to give someone a chance or go the extra mile, there are moments he reminds Harmon why procedures exist so neither one of them has to get on the radio, make that call, or deliver bad news to the other’s family.
Episode Details
| Category | Details |
| Episode Title | Pilot |
| Originally Aired | January 9, 2025 |
| Network | Prime Video |
| Director(s) | Eriq La Salle |
| Writer(s) | Tim Walsh, Elliot Wolf |
| Character | ACTOR’S NAME |
| Alex Diaz | Brandon Larracuente |
| Traci Harmon | Troian Bellisario |
New Character Descriptions
Alex Diaz
Alex is a good person from San Pedro trying to be a good cop. However, being the first in his family with a badge and having no love amongst his family, even his mother, for taking on the role, his support is minimal, which makes the influence of his peers strong.
Traci Harmon
Hardened and a bit isolated, from what it seems, Traci doing things by the books have made her the black sheep on the force. However, despite perceptions about her, she sometimes steps out of line – especially when a call triggers something in her.
Review
Trajectory (83/100): Plateau
The only other cop show I’ve watched is “9-1-1,” which I watched for about six or seven seasons. This feels refreshing. It is rooted enough to give a sense of realism, but there is a certain amount of light and levity, mainly from Alex, to put an optimistic or lighthearted spin. Now, don’t get it twisted. Drug use, blood, and signs that we’re in for seeing violence happen are established early on.
However, I’d submit that in this surprisingly half-hour episode, you get something far better than what is currently out there, which tries to use the latest headlines, often the ones you’d find hard to believe, to keep your attention. Add in the body cam view that is given sometimes, which can make it feel like the show is shifting in tone, and you get something that can capture and keep your attention.
Highlights
- Half-Hour Drama
- Rooted In Realism, But Isn’t Overtly Dreary
- The Body Camera Views
What To Check Out Next & How To Check This Out
On Call: Season 1 – Video Review and Summary
A video review and summary of Prime Video’s On Call: Season 1.
On Call: Show and Character Guide
This is a show and character guide for Prime Video’s “On Call” with character descriptions, storylines, quotes, information on groups and locations, and more.
On Call: Season 1 – Review and Summary | Troian Bellisario Reinvents Herself As “On Call” Tries To Reinvent The Cop Show
Prime Video’s “On Call” goes against trend when it comes to giving us a cop show, and while there is a certain level of adjustment required, it ultimately makes for a quality binge-watch.
Check out our page for this series, featuring more recaps, reviews, and articles.
