Ep 1. Products of Discovery

The Closer is a crime drama television series that was among the most popular shows on TNT from 2005 to 2012. Set in Los Angeles, the show follows the investigations of Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson, played by Kyra Sedgwick, and her team of detectives in the LAPD's Priority Homicide Division.

Season 5 of The Closer begins with episode 1, titled "Products of Discovery." The episode centers around the murder of a woman who was doing research on a controversial pesticide. As Brenda and her team investigate the killing, they quickly discover that the victim had made some powerful enemies.

The episode opens with a news conference in which Brenda announces the arrest of a suspect in a high-profile case. However, the celebration is short-lived, as her attention quickly turns to the murder of Dr. Madeline Roth, a scientist studying the effects of a pesticide called Cyclonite. The victim was found dead in her lab, and initial evidence suggests that she was killed by someone who wanted to stop her research.

As Brenda and her team dig deeper, they learn that the pesticide is owned by a powerful corporation that has a lot to lose if the research becomes public. In addition, they discover that Dr. Roth had been working on a report that would expose the dangerous side effects of Cyclonite. With this information in hand, Brenda realizes that the murderer is likely someone from the company who wanted to keep the report from being published.

As the investigation unfolds, the team discovers more evidence linking the killer to the company, and Brenda becomes convinced that she knows who did it. However, she needs concrete proof if she is going to make an arrest. With the help of her team, Brenda sets a trap to expose the killer's involvement in the murder. The trap works, and the killer is arrested without incident.

Ultimately, the episode ends with Brenda reflecting on the case and the power of corporations in today's world. She acknowledges that while the killer will be punished, the company behind the pesticide will likely continue to operate with impunity. It's a sobering realization, but one that highlights the complexities of modern policing.

Overall, "Products of Discovery" is a thrilling episode that showcases the strengths of The Closer. With a compelling crime at its center and strong characterization, the episode is a great start to what promises to be a gripping season.