Ep 2. Original Sin

Detective Harlee Santos continues to walk the dangerous line between being both a dedicated officer and a corrupt member of a closely-knit unit of the NYPD. She works to keep her team together while embarking on an undercover mission with an FBI agent. In the Series 1, Episode 2, named Original Sin, Santos is approached by her FBI contact, Stahl, to look into a drug dealer known as the Balmains. Stahl believes the Balmains are connected to the death of an undercover agent, which is a matter of great concern to him.

While the focus is on the case, Santos' personal life is also explored. Her daughter Cristina has behavioral issues at school, which bring up Santos' feelings of inadequacy as a mother. Meanwhile, Santos continues to be watched by her superiors at the NYPD. Lieutenant Wozniak warns her to stay off his radar, which puts further pressure on Santos to walk the gray line.

As the investigation continues, Santos and Stahl grow closer to one another, leading both of them to make choices that will have long-lasting repercussions. Santos must also confront a difficult choice when a member of her team is caught in the middle of the investigation. She must decide whether to protect the team or to follow through with her undercover duties.

The episode reveals more about the complex characters and relationships within the show. Santos' loyalty is tested time and again, and her morality is constantly questioned. The audience is given glimpses into her past, with scenes featuring her childhood and relationship with her father, serving to deepen the viewer's understanding of her character.

The show's theme of loyalty is explored in various ways, with both Santos' allegiance to her fellow officers and her commitment to her FBI mission being called into question. The idea of trust is also explored, with Santos struggling to trust both her fellow officers and her superiors. The consequences of misplaced trust are highlighted, as are the sacrifices that must sometimes be made to maintain it.

The episode's pacing is smooth, and the tension between the characters is palpable. The performances of the cast are strong, with Jennifer Lopez delivering a nuanced take on the conflicted Santos. The supporting cast also adds depth to the show, with Ray Liotta as Wozniak and Drea de Matteo as his second-in-command Tess being particularly notable.

In conclusion, Shades of Blue Season 1 Episode 2, Original Sin, is a strong addition to the series. The themes of loyalty and trust are explored in interesting ways, and the performances of the cast are impressive. The episode sets up further conflict and intrigue within the show and leaves the viewer wanting more.