Ep 18. The Big Look

The iconic police procedural television show, Dragnet, aired its first season in 1952 and quickly gained a massive following for its realistic depiction of police work. Each episode followed the detectives of the Los Angeles Police Department as they tackled a new case. Season 1 Episode 18, titled "The Big Look," is no different in its gritty portrayal of a complex crime investigation.

The episode begins with the discovery of the body of a young woman in a ravine outside of Los Angeles. The victim, named June Fowler, had been sexually assaulted and strangled with her own scarf. Detectives Friday and Smith are assigned to the case and begin their investigation by interviewing those closest to June - her roommate, ex-boyfriend, and current boyfriend. Their initial interviews turn up few leads, but the detectives continue to follow every possible avenue.

One of the most striking aspects of Dragnet is its dedication to portraying the methods of police work realistically. This includes painstaking attention to detail, with detectives examining the crime scene for any possible evidence and following up on even the smallest leads. The investigation into June's murder is no different. Friday and Smith retrace her steps on the night of her death, visiting every location she had been to and interviewing anyone who had seen her or spoken to her.

As the investigation progresses, the detectives discover that June had been involved in a modeling contest held by a local lounge. The winner of the competition would receive a $1,000 cash prize and the opportunity to be featured as a poster in the lounge. Friday and Smith attend the contest and speak to the contestants, as well as the lounge's owner and employees. It is during this scene that viewers are treated to one of the most memorable aspects of Dragnet - the iconic "just the facts, ma'am" line that has become synonymous with the show.

As Friday and Smith continue to dig into the case, they begin to piece together the events leading up to June's murder. Without giving away any spoilers, it can be said that the investigation takes some unexpected turns and leads to a surprising and satisfying conclusion.

One of the elements that sets Dragnet apart from other crime dramas is its emphasis on accuracy and realism. The show's creator, Jack Webb, was a former LAPD officer who strove to create a show that accurately reflected the work of the police department. As such, Dragnet features interviews with real police officers and focuses on the methods and practices of the LAPD in the early 1950s. This commitment to realism helps to create a sense of immersion for viewers, who feel as though they are watching an authentic depiction of police work.

In addition to its focus on realism, Dragnet is also notable for its lack of sensationalism. Unlike many other crime dramas, the show does not rely on excessive violence or graphic imagery to engage viewers. Instead, it relies on well-crafted storytelling and strong performances from its cast to keep audiences invested in the characters and the outcome of the case. This focus on character and story is another aspect that sets Dragnet apart from other crime dramas of its time.

Overall, Dragnet season 1 episode 18, "The Big Look," is a prime example of the show's dedication to realism and authenticity. The investigation into June Fowler's murder is handled with painstaking attention to detail, with detectives Friday and Smith following every possible lead to bring the killer to justice. The episode is a prime example of the show's strengths - strong storytelling, well-crafted characters, and a commitment to accuracy and realism. Fans of crime dramas and police procedurals are sure to enjoy this episode, as well as the rest of the iconic show.