When does Brooklyn Nine-Nine Get Good?
Most fans of Brooklyn Nine-Nine praise the show for having a consistent run over the entire series. While there is a slight shift in tone with the show’s commentary following the move to NBC from FOX, most fans say the series is a bastion of comedy television, that never really has major weaknesses.
Fans will tell new viewers that if you’re not into the show by the end of the first season, which for some takes a bit to get its footing (or a few episodes into the second season), this probably just isn’t the type of show you’ll end up enjoying overall.
What Fans Say
Fans of Brooklyn Nine-Nine appreciate its lighthearted and positive portrayal of friendship, teamwork, and identity. The comedic elements paired with unique and relatable characters have made it a fan favorite across demographics. Jake’s growth from a carefree prankster to a responsible and thoughtful detective particularly resonates, as does Captain Holt’s portrayal as an openly gay police captain who defies stereotypes. Rosa Diaz’s character development, especially her coming out storyline, is widely praised for its authenticity and sensitivity.
Fans also appreciate the show’s balance of humor with real-world topics, noting that the series does not shy away from addressing issues like discrimination, police brutality, and LGBTQ+ rights. Many also enjoy the witty, often rapid-fire humor, the character dynamics, and the memorable running gags.
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What Haters Say
Critics of the show often argue that Brooklyn Nine-Nine simplifies complex issues within policing, sometimes portraying an idealized version of police work that doesn’t reflect real-world complexities. Additionally, some detractors feel that the show’s comedy occasionally relies on tropes or clichés, and there are those who find the characters too exaggerated or “cartoonish” for their taste.
Another criticism is the show’s handling of serious topics, such as police reform. Some viewers feel that the show could go further in addressing these issues, rather than relying on humor to gloss over them. While some found these critiques more pronounced in later seasons, particularly as the show grappled with real-world events surrounding police reform, others argue that it still offers a nuanced portrayal within the limitations of a sitcom format.
Does the Show Fall Off in Quality at Any Point?
Many fans and critics observe that while the show remains relatively consistent, certain elements shifted post-Fox cancellation. Some feel that the NBC episodes feature a slightly different tone, with more emphasis on social issues and an increased focus on character development over humor. While this shift was embraced by some fans, others felt that it reduced the comedic balance that characterized the earlier seasons.
Despite these critiques, the show generally maintained a high standard throughout its run, with the quality of writing and character development praised even in its final season. The show’s efforts to incorporate discussions about policing and social justice were seen as timely, even if they sometimes sparked debate among fans.
Aggregated Critic Commentary
| Season | IMDb Rating | Rotten Tomatoes Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 8.2 | 88% |
| 2 | 8.3 | 100% |
| 3 | 8.4 | 100% |
| 4 | 8.4 | 100% |
| 5 | 8.5 | 100% |
| 6 | 8.2 | 100% |
| 7 | 8.1 | 100% |
| 8 | 8.0 | 100% |
Critics generally praise Brooklyn Nine-Nine for its humor, unique characters, and the way it tackles contemporary issues. It has a strong rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with its sharp wit and approachable treatment of difficult subjects frequently highlighted as strengths. Many critics commend the show’s commitment to diversity and the fact that it embraces meaningful character growth.
The show’s comedic timing and ensemble cast received consistent praise from outlets like The Guardian and IndieWire. However, as discussions about policing became more prominent in the U.S., some critics examined the show through a more critical lens. Reviews from Vulture and The Atlantic noted the difficulty in balancing comedy with the responsibility of portraying law enforcement realistically. Nonetheless, most agree that the series succeeded in maintaining its humor and heart while staying relevant in changing times.
Overview of Brooklyn Nine-Nine
Brooklyn Nine-Nine follows the officers of the fictional 99th precinct of the NYPD in Brooklyn, New York. The series centers around Detective Jake Peralta, a talented but immature cop who brings humor and an often over-the-top approach to police work. The show balances comedy with social commentary, addressing real-life issues while maintaining a lighthearted tone. With Andy Samberg as Jake Peralta and a strong ensemble cast, including Terry Crews, Stephanie Beatriz, and Andre Braugher, Brooklyn Nine-Nine became known for its clever humor, memorable characters, and modern take on the police procedural genre.
Premiering in 2013, the show aired on Fox until its abrupt cancellation after Season 5, a decision met with outcry from fans. NBC picked up the series for an additional three seasons, bringing it to a total of eight. Praised for blending comedy with representation, the show has often been celebrated for its inclusive portrayals, particularly of LGBTQ+ characters and people of color. Its thoughtful handling of issues like police reform and identity, coupled with its unique comedic style, has cemented Brooklyn Nine-Nine as a beloved staple of modern television.
Season-by-Season Breakdown
- Season 1: The debut season establishes the dynamic between Jake and Captain Holt, setting the tone for the show’s mix of workplace comedy and crime-solving. The season ends with a cliffhanger involving Jake going undercover.
- Season 2: This season delves deeper into character relationships, especially between Jake and Amy, while expanding on backstories. Highlights include the Pontiac Bandit storyline and the “Halloween Heist” tradition.
- Season 3: Rosa’s relationships and Holt’s transfer provide fresh narrative avenues. The season ends with Jake and Holt in witness protection, adding suspense to the usually lighthearted series.
- Season 4: Brooklyn Nine-Nine tackles more substantial story arcs, including Jake and Rosa’s wrongful imprisonment. This season emphasizes the group’s loyalty and moral compass.
- Season 5: After facing cancellation, the season ends with a high point — Jake and Amy’s wedding. Episodes explore serious topics like Rosa’s coming out and highlight the supportive nature of the precinct.
- Season 6: Now on NBC, the show features a slightly different tone, with more social commentary woven in. This season tackles burnout, parenting, and relationships within the precinct.
- Season 7: This season delves into Jake and Amy’s journey to parenthood, while still maintaining the show’s signature humor. The Halloween Heist episode remains a fan favorite.
- Season 8: The final season brings a more reflective tone, addressing police reform directly. The series finale is widely regarded as a satisfying conclusion, honoring the characters and long-running gags.
Similar Shows
Fans of Brooklyn Nine-Nine might enjoy:
- Parks and Recreation – A workplace comedy set in local government with a similar balance of humor and heartfelt character moments.
- The Office – Known for its quirky characters and mockumentary style, it features a similar blend of humor and workplace dynamics.
- Superstore – A comedy centered around employees at a big-box store, known for its diverse characters and relevant social themes.
- Scrubs – Set in a hospital, Scrubs combines humor with touching moments, much like Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
- The Good Place – Another Michael Schur production, it explores philosophical questions with humor and an ensemble cast.
If You Liked These, You’ll Like Brooklyn Nine-Nine:
- Archer – A mix of comedy and espionage, known for its witty dialogue and over-the-top characters.
- Psych – A detective comedy-drama featuring a quirky investigator with a “psychic” edge, blending mystery with humor.
- New Girl – Known for its eccentric characters and laugh-out-loud humor, New Girl offers a similar comedic vibe.
- Community – A comedy with an ensemble cast, known for its meta-humor, pop culture references, and character-driven storytelling.