Ep 25. The Big Departure

In the second season finale of Dragnet (1967), titled The Big Departure, viewers are taken on a gripping ride through the complexities of crime, law enforcement, and the human experience. This episode explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the emotional toll that police work can take on its officers and their families.

As the episode opens, detectives Joe Friday and Frank Smith are called to investigate a perplexing case that seems to involve not only potential criminal activities but also raises questions about personal morals and ethical considerations. The storyline unfolds in a typical Dragnet style, with a focus on realism, procedural accuracy, and the nuanced challenges faced by law enforcement officers. The narrative captures the raw intensity of police work, diving into the nitty-gritty of detective responsibilities while highlighting the difficulties of maintaining personal relationships in such a demanding line of work.

Tension builds as Friday and Smith decode a series of clues that suggest a potential inside job—a departure from the norm that prompts them to reconsider trusting those around them, including colleagues and informants. The Big Departure is a two-part story, intensifying the stakes as the detectives uncover deeper layers of deception and intrigue. The investigation leads them through various neighborhoods and communities, presenting a mosaic of Los Angeles in the late 1960s, with all its socio-economic complexities.

A hallmark of the series is its commitment to authenticity, and this episode is no different. Through realistic dialogue and character interactions, it shines a light on the procedural aspects of police work in a way that is both engaging and educational. Viewers are brought along on the journey as the detectives meticulously gather evidence, interview witnesses, and confront suspects, all while grappling with their own dilemmas and moral questioning.

The episode also delves into the personal lives of Friday and Smith, revealing the toll that their work takes on them. The narrative oscillates between their professional duties and their responsibilities to their families, showcasing the struggles of balancing dedication to the job with the need for familial connection. This dual narrative adds an emotional depth to the episode, allowing viewers to empathize not just with the detectives but with the families affected by crime and the choices made in the heat of investigation.

The pacing of The Big Departure is meticulously crafted, building suspense gradually and drawing the audience in. As Friday and Smith navigate their leads and piece together the puzzle, viewers are treated to moments of reflection—character-driven vignettes that highlight the detectives' thoughts and feelings about their work and its impact on their lives. It is a poignant reminder of the humanity behind the badge.

Supporting characters play significant roles in this episode, including various informants and victims who offer insight into the crime's impact on their lives. Each character is carefully woven into the narrative, enriching the story and presenting a diverse range of perspectives on law enforcement and the criminal justice system. The interactions between the detectives and these characters serve to further illuminate the complexities of each case, illustrating how personal experiences shape perceptions of justice and responsibility.

The Big Departure is marked by its hallmark dragnet-style realism, which serves to enhance the gravitas of the narrative. The direction and cinematography work in tandem to create an immersive experience—gritty, yet polished enough to retain the polished aesthetics of the 1960s. The use of close-ups and atmospheric shots, paired with a well-crafted score, underscores the emotional stakes of the story, enveloping viewers in its tense atmosphere.

As the episode progresses, the connections among the characters deepen, leading to moments of revelation that challenge the detectives and complicate their investigation. The tension escalates, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats as they wonder how things will resolve. Will Friday and Smith be able to navigate the emotional and ethical quandaries presented to them and reach a resolution before it's too late?

The Big Departure seamlessly ties together various elements, including procedural drama, emotional weight, and social commentary, ensuring it resonates deeply with viewers. Through compelling storytelling and robust character development, this episode stands out as a notable entry in the Dragnet series, encapsulating the essence of the show while also providing a thought-provoking examination of the complexities inherent in the pursuit of justice. As the concluding episode of the second season, it invites viewers to reflect on the nature of duty and the price of commitment in the world of law enforcement.