Television Review: A Dog and Pony Show (Homicide: Life on the Street, S1X06, 1993)

A Dog and Pony Show (S01E06)

Airdate: 10 March 1993

Written by: James Yoshimura
Directed by: Alan Taylor

Running Time: 46 minutes

The episode A Dog and Pony Show of Homicide: Life on the Street offers a stark contrast to the intense simplicity of its predecessor, Three Men and Adena. Returning to the show's formula of cramming multiple plots into a single episode, this instalment delivers a mixed bag of storylines that range from compelling to underwhelming.

The first plot centres on Detectives Bayliss and Pembleton, who are assigned to investigate the death of "Jake," a police dog. Initially, Bayliss exhibits a dismissive attitude towards the case, viewing it as trivial compared to the weighty matters they typically handle. In contrast, Pembleton approaches the investigation with professionalism and seriousness, reminding Bayliss that they are legally obligated to treat the death of a city-owned animal as an official case. Their inquiry reveals that Jake was poisoned, leading them to Penny Babcock (played by Joy Ehrlich), an overworked dog pound employee who mistakenly killed Jake by confusing him with another dog slated for euthanasia. The emotional climax occurs when both detectives attend the scattering of Jake's ashes by his handler, John Kuehn (played by Nick Olcott). This moment resonates deeply with Bayliss, who is still haunted by his unresolved case involving Adena Watson.

The second plot shifts focus to Felton and Howard as they investigate the brutal murder of Idamae Keene, a woman found cut and tortured in her own bedroom. The detectives quickly deduce that Keene likely knew her killer, leading them to her boyfriend, "Pony" Johnson (played by Geoffrey Ewing), a drug dealer who displays a chilling indifference towards his illegal activities and personal relationships. Latoya Kennedy (played by Lisa Gay Hamilton), one of Johnson's girlfriends reveals that he left a party with another dealer, William Lyness (played by Lawrence Gillard Junior), on the night of Keene's murder. Lewis later informs Felton and Howard about another murder – a woman that happened to be Lyness’ mother. The investigation culminates in Lyness confessing to his involvement in both crimes.

The third plot introduces Bollander's discomfort as he navigates his relationship with Danny (played by Steve Patakosky), the son of his girlfriend Dr. Carol Blythe. Young man’s eagerness to accompany Bollander and Munch on their investigations leads to awkward exchanges filled with inappropriate questions about murder and Bollander's sex life. Bollander’s discomfort culminates in a candid conversation with Carol about Danny's seemingly disturbed nature.

Crosetti's storyline continues to depict his friendship with Officer Chris Thormann (played by Lee Tergeen), who is now grappling with his new reality after becoming blind and crippled due to an injury. Thormann's struggles with self-worth and impending fatherhood resonate deeply as Crosetti attempts to offer support amidst his friend's despair.

Giardello's retirement party for his friend Jim Scinta (played by Michael Constantine) provides a moment of reflection on the transient nature of their work and the changes in the city. The conversation between the two men offers a sense of camaraderie and nostalgia for the past.

The writing by James Yoshimura shines throughout A Dog and Pony Show, effectively balancing multiple narratives while maintaining character depth. Despite some moments that verge on quirky or exaggerated, the episode remains solidly grounded in its exploration of human experiences within an often harsh reality. Notably, Lisa Gay Hamilton delivers an outstanding performance as LaToya Kennedy, showcasing her character's intelligence and refinement in stark contrast to her boyfriend’s criminal lifestyle.

Yoshimura also adeptly addresses the relationship dynamics between Felton and Howard, presenting their bond as strictly platonic despite underlying tensions regarding attraction. Felton’s candidness about his marital issues adds depth to their interactions while dispelling any notions of romantic involvement between them.

One particularly noteworthy moment, which would today be described as “based”, involves Howard confronting obviously incompetent female police officer Anne Schanne (played by Julie Lauren). This is followed by Howard describing Schanne and other like her as “secretaries with guns”, brought to the field only to fill affirmative action gender quotas. This could be interpreted through contemporary lenses as problematic or even sexist. However, given that this remark comes from a female character, the episode gets away with it.

A Dog and Pony Show delivers a mixed bag of storylines, with some shining brighter than others. While it may not reach the heights of its predecessor, the episode remains a solid instalment of Homicide: Life on the Street, thanks to strong writing and excellent acting.

RATING: 6/10 (++)

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