Ep 2. Home Invasion

Nash Bridges season 1 episode 2 titled "Home Invasion" is an action-packed police procedural drama that follows the investigations of the San Francisco Police Department's (SFPD) Special Investigations Unit (SIU). In this episode, Nash Bridges (Don Johnson) and his partner Joe Dominguez (Cheech Marin) are called to investigate a home invasion that resulted in the death of a wealthy resident.

The episode kicks off with a bloodied and disoriented man named Frank Bower (guest-star Jeffrey Dean Morgan) stumbling out of a wealthy San Francisco home in the middle of the night. Bower, who is the ex-boyfriend of the resident of the home, claims to have been beaten and robbed by intruders who are still inside. Nash and Joe arrive at the scene, accompanied by their colleague Evan Cortez (Jaime Gomez). They realize that the suspects have taken the homeowner hostage, and they quickly set up a perimeter around the house.

As Nash and Joe try to negotiate with the suspects, they learn that the homeowner, Carolyn Malloy (guest-star Nina Siemaszko), is a wealthy socialite involved in a bitter divorce with her husband, a prominent lawyer. The investigation leads the SIU detectives down a complex web of greed, betrayal, and violence. Meanwhile, Joe deals with personal issues when his daughter is caught shoplifting, and Nash reconnects with an old flame.

The show's pacing is intense, with plenty of action, suspense, and drama. The writing is sharp and witty, and the characters are well-developed and engaging. Don Johnson's portrayal of the charismatic and unorthodox Nash Bridges is especially noteworthy. Johnson infuses the character with a wry sense of humor and a deep dedication to his job, making him a memorable hero audiences will root for.

The episode tackles relevant themes such as wealth disparity, domestic violence, and corruption in law enforcement. Despite the serious subject matter, the show avoids being too heavy-handed, thanks to its light-hearted moments and charming characters. The episode's resolution is satisfying, tying up loose ends while leaving room for future investigations and character development.

Overall, Nash Bridges season 1 episode 2 "Home Invasion" is an excellent example of the show's formula. It's a well-written, well-executed police procedural drama that manages to be both entertaining and thought-provoking. It's a must-watch for fans of the genre and a perfect introduction to the world of Nash Bridges and his SIU team.