Today, Explained Copaganda
Jun 13, 2020
Aaron Russon Thomas, co-creator and executive producer of SWAT, dives into the shifting portrayal of police in media. He critiques the legacy of shows like Cops, now canceled, and discusses how narratives have evolved from critical to heroic depictions of law enforcement. The conversation highlights the disparity between optimistic series like Brooklyn Nine-Nine and real-world crime resolution rates. With the pandemic prompting a reevaluation, Thomas advocates for nuanced representations that reflect societal complexities and the need for accountability amidst social justice movements.
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Evolution of Cop Shows
- Early police portrayals in media were often critical or satirical.
- This changed as police departments collaborated with Hollywood, realizing the positive PR and recruitment benefits.
Dragnet's Influence
- Jack Webb's Dragnet pioneered the formula of police-Hollywood collaboration, portraying cops as competent and community-focused.
- This template, where cops are good at their jobs and always get their man, has largely persisted.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine's Paradox
- Brooklyn Nine-Nine presents a comedic but serious look at policing, aiming to be a model for what policing could be.
- However, its optimistic portrayal clashes with the current realities of policing, creating discordance.