Spoiler Alert: This article contains spoilers from The Rookie Season 7, Episode 2, titled “The Watcher.”
The Rookie Season 7: A Promising Follow-Up
The debut of The Rookie Season 7 had its ups and downs, but Episode 2 shows significant promise, indicating a brighter future for the series. Alexi Hawley’s acclaimed police procedural has evolved considerably since the first season. Nathan Fillion’s character, John Nolan, transitioned from a rookie officer to a training officer, but his journey of learning continues.
Episode Overview
In “The Watcher,”Nolan attempts to empower Celina Juarez during Plain Clothes Day, while Nyla Harper confronts personal challenges, and Tim Bradford along with Lucy Chen navigate their rookies’ missteps. This episode offers simplicity, which enhances the viewing experience compared to the less impactful premiere of Season 7. Though it has a few flaws, “The Watcher”provides a positive glimpse of upcoming episodes in the next 16 installments.
Episodic Format Returns
Episode Structure: A Nod to Classic Storytelling
True to Hawley’s word, Season 7 is recapturing the essence of its classic episodic structure, where each episode presents cohesive stories that start and conclude within the hour. While Episode 1, titled “The Shot,”followed this model, its effectiveness was overshadowed by unresolved cliffhangers from Season 6’s finale. In contrast, Episode 2 emerges as a more satisfying episode.
Although “The Shot”left significant questions lingering, such as the whereabouts of characters like Jason Wyler and Oscar Hutchinson, Episode 2 allows viewers to savor its narrative without dwelling too much on past unresolved plots. However, ignoring these lingering storylines proves challenging.
This episode also brings back the thrilling Plain Clothes Day experience, successfully showcasing Celina’s capabilities. Additionally, the team’s hunt for a vigilante and their copycat proves engaging, with both storylines reaching fulfilling resolutions by the episode’s end. “The Watcher”further develops ongoing narratives, including Celina’s rookie year, Nolan’s self-doubt in his training role, and the romantic dynamics between Tim and Lucy.
Empowered Characters: Nyla & Angela’s Screen Time
A Long-Awaited Spotlight
One notable advancement in “The Watcher”is the increased screen time awarded to Nyla and Angela. Nyla’s story delves into her home life and the tensions within her marriage to James, as they navigate the complexities of policing and their relationship. This leads her to seek refuge at Angela’s home, reinforcing the strength of their friendship.
|
The Rookie Season 7 Cast |
Character |
|---|---|
|
Nathan Fillion |
John Nolan |
|
Richard T. Jones |
Wade Grey |
|
Alyssa Diaz |
Angela Lopez |
|
Eric Winter |
Tim Bradford |
|
Melissa O’Neil |
Lucy Chen |
|
Mayor Cox |
Nyla Harper |
|
Shawn Ashmore |
Wesley Evers |
|
Jenna Dewan |
Bailey Nune |
|
Lisseth Chavez |
Celina Juarez |
|
Deric Augustine |
Miles Penn |
|
Patrick Kelehe |
Seth Ridley |
In previous seasons, particularly Season 6, Nyla and Angela were given scant screen time. With more focus on these characters in Episode 2, Season 7 is off to a promising start in addressing their development—a narrative direction that viewers hope will continue moving forward.
Introducing New Rookies: Miles & Seth
Filling the Void Left by Aaron
Welcoming new characters is often a challenge in long-running series, yet Miles and Seth are gradually carving their niche in Season 7. After Aaron’s departure, these two new rookies bring refreshing dynamics and have quickly become integral to the storyline. Their contrasting personalities—Miles’ brashness and Seth’s anxious demeanor—help establish their characters effectively within just two episodes.
The Rookie successfully evokes empathy for these newcomers, which is no small feat considering the show’s established legacy. Miles reveals layers of complexity beyond his initial arrogance, while Seth’s sweetness and depth are captivating, showcasing his struggles and strengths.
Catch new episodes of The Rookie Season 7 every Tuesday at 10 PM ET on ABC!
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