Ep 2. Mercury Retrograde

In "Mercury Retrograde," the second episode of the first season of the Canadian television series Rookie Blue, we see the newly graduated officers of the Toronto Police Service continue to acclimate to their roles on the job. The episode opens with a scene of McNally, Diaz, and Peck on duty in their patrol car discussing an upcoming "shift bid," where officers choose their preferred assignment for the coming month. This conversation not only sets the tone for the episode but highlights the personal and professional challenges the officers face as they begin to find their place within the department.

As the title suggests, the episode takes place during a period of Mercury retrograde, which is known for hindering communication and causing confusion. This theme of disrupted communication is woven throughout the episode as the characters struggle to connect with one another both on and off the job. For example, McNally is tasked with working with Detective Luke Callaghan on a missing persons case but struggles to communicate effectively with him, as he often seems more interested in flirting with her than in solving the case at hand. Meanwhile, Diaz and Peck find themselves at odds when Diaz's eagerness to prove himself on the job puts them both in danger.

Throughout the episode, we see the characters operating in an environment where trust and communication are vital for success, highlighting the importance of teamwork and the challenges that come with it. Along with the interpersonal relationships of the officers, the episode also explores the hierarchy of the department as the more experienced officers assert their authority over the rookies. While this dynamic can be frustrating for the new officers, it helps to highlight the need for discipline and respect in the police force.

At its core, "Mercury Retrograde" is a character-driven episode that explores the personal and professional struggles of the officers as they navigate the challenges of their new roles. While the episode does feature some exciting action sequences, such as a high-stakes chase through a crowded street and a tense standoff, the real focus is on the characters and the relationships they form with one another. This allows the show to establish a strong foundation for the rest of the series and gives the audience a glimpse into the complex and intricate world of law enforcement.