Memphis Beat Season 1 Episode 1 Pilot - That's Alright, Mama

Set in the city of Memphis, Memphis Beat is a cop drama that centres around Dwight Hendricks (played by Jason Lee) - an offbeat and charismatic detective with his very own unique way of solving crimes. In the show's first season, Pilot - That's Alright, Mama follows Hendricks and his partner, Whitehead (played by Sam Hennings), as they investigate a series of pharmacy robberies in the city. The episode takes a deep dive into Memphis' music scene and its influence on the city's identity.

The episode opens with Hendricks belting out Elvis Presley's "That's Alright Mama" at a local karaoke bar, surrounded by enthusiastic locals revelling in the melodies that make Memphis music an American icon. The show's setting itself is steeped in musical history and references. The tune and other Memphis-based tunes bounce around the show as a continuous soundtrack.

As the episode sets its tone, we are introduced to Hendrick's unconventional style of policing. Hendricks flirts with the ladies and speaks in strange tongues to his female coroner Dr. Quick, played by Celia Weston. He's one of the most respected detectives in Memphis, with a lot of success to his name, but he's still considered something of an oddball by those around him.

The primary plot of the episode focuses on the pharmacy robberies taking place around the city. In a break from tradition, this is an investigation that absolutely hinges on the city's rich musical heritage. The first heist takes place at a Memphis pharmacy, with the robber fleeing the scene in a vintage Cadillac blaring Sun Records' "Son Of A Preacher Man." It's not letting on too much to suggest that Hendricks and Whitehead's investigation ties into the Memphis music industry.

The episode is filled with a rich helping of southern charm and wit. Hendricks' character is quirky and highly likable. He has a great rapport with everyone he meets and always goes an extra mile in making that human connection with people in the city. In one sequence he helps his barber, Reggie, with some writing. When the pair gets looped into the investigation, the show gains some added zing.

Hendrick's engaging personality is also matched by the quirky characters he meets on the job. The show is littered with engaging local personalities, including Hendrick's amiable coroner, Dr. Quick, who pops Advil like candy and has a thing for our leading detective. As the investigation heats up, we are introduced to a handful of suspects - each with their own unique personalities - and we see Hendricks captivatingly win them over, as well as getting them to spill the beans.

Memphis Beat is one of the few cop dramas that adore its environment, with the rich musical culture of Memphis woven right into the inter-textural makeup of the show. It's near impossible to watch an episode of Memphis Beat and not develop an affinity for the city that birthed it. The people of Memphis are diverse, colourful and confident, and the series does an excellent job of celebrating them.

The pilot episode of the show isn't perfect, but it's a quality start to the series. The narrative moves along at a brisk pace, with engaging set pieces and charming characters sprinkled throughout. A lot of the story hinges on the show's musical roots, meaning that for fans of the music, this episode is a really enjoyable ride. Even viewers unfamiliar with the Memphis music scene will find a lot of likability in the city's distinct culture and Hendrick's offbeat approach to detecting. It's the kind of show that offers a welcome respite from the darker, more visceral cop dramas on TV and is sure to have you toe-tapping throughout.

The show is a celebration of crime drama and Memphis's immeasurable spirit, providing a light-hearted feel to cop dramas while still maintaining the core elements of tension, suspense, and intrigue.