There Goes the Neighborhood

I learn from this episodes how differently I feel about watching cop shows. In earnest, I was saying aloud to the TV, "Don't shoot!" to both Murtaugh (Wayans), and Marcus (DeRon Horton) when they are facing off with guns. The scene raises heavy emotions built up from the current events in America. Murtaugh Jr.'s (Dante Brown) being pulled over for speeding also addresses the issue of law enforcement and the public. Delicate balance. Handled well. The Barber Shop scenes provide the perfect safety zone relief from the big bad world. Watching the guys joke around feels like a viewer hug.

Bravo!

I'm sorry I like Damon Wayans but it seems to me like he is trying to hard like over acting. And the guy who plays Riggs. I haven't seen him in anything else so I don't know if he is over acting.

There was something off with this episode, something very generic cop- show about it. It felt more like NCIS: Los Angeles the way characters would either pose or move through a scene. This, I did not expect. The dramatic elements also felt forced; the story gave Murtaugh something personal to work with, but having him clash so fiercely with Riggs was awkwardly handled.

Now, it did have its moments (LTD's "Back In Love Again", in particular), but what I'm really hoping with this show is something that isn't a formulaic procedural.

6/10

The fourth episode of the first season of "Lethal Weapon", "There Goes the Neighborhood" shows all the strengths this show has this early in its life. We have action, comedy, touching moments, and a great chemistry between the characters. The plot is not especially original, but it is interesting enough, directed in a fast paced style and doesn't let the viewer down.

In this episode we have Roger and Martin trying to catch some robbers. At the same time, Roger's son, Roger Jr., meets an old friend in his old neighborhood, and they start hanging out together. Does this friend, Marcus, have anything to do with the burglaries?

From the get-go this episode is a blast. From Roger visiting his old neighborhood with his son, the dynamics between the characters are great, and the character development top notch. Wayans does a great job, and seems to feel quite comfortable by now as Roger, and in his relationship with Crawford's Martin. There is some talk about the values of community and friendship and asking for forgiveness that add a nice touch to the episode. The action is good, but it is also funny and there is a fight in a gym that is quite good. And the humor keeps coming. "Lethal Weapon" is rising above average TV to become a very entertaining show.

Great episode.

The chase scene, the old man walking into the street with the dog. Sirens, and he didn't hear anything? Also, crashing into the garage and riding out on a motorcycle.........