Homicide: Life on the Street, produced byTom FontanaandBarry Levinson, is finally streaming onPeacock.
On Peacock, its the fourth episode of Season 2, which reflects the production order.
But, it originally aired as the Season 2 premiere.
Custom Image by Nimesh Niyomal
Bop Gun isthe firstHomicide: Life on the Streetepisode to focus on one standalone story.
This change in focus leads to great scenes that serve asa showcase for Robin Williams talent.
In another scene, Tim Bayliss (Kyle Secor) tries to interview Ellisons young children.
Image via NBC
The children are clearly upset and Ellison intervenes, telling Bayliss that the interview is too hard on them.
He states, One does not acquire Robin Williams to have him off-screen in every other scene.
In one scene, Ellison is frustrated with himself after he fails to identify the suspects.
Despite his efforts, he doesnt remember their faces.
Williams walks the line of showing the depth of Ellisons grief without veering into melodrama.
The purely dramatic approach completely works, and the performance brings something toHomicidethat was missing previously.
Image via NBC
The episode, anchored by Williams performance,emphasizes the importance of what these detectives do.
This makes sense becauseRobin Williams previously worked with Levinsonon the filmsGood Morning, VietnamandToys.
He also said he found the performance draining.
Williams toldThe New York Times, It was kind of brutal.
You would finish a day and still be in a kind of state.
You’d want to go back to the hotel and call home immediately to ensure everyone was all right.
At the time the episode was conceived,Homicidewas struggling with ratings.
This is whyHomicideSeason 2 is only four episodes long.
But,bringing in Robin Williams and focusing on an approachable, standalone storypaid off.
This contributed to the show being renewed for a third season.
WithHomicide: Life on the Streetnow on Peacock, it’s a great time to binge the groundbreaking series.
