Wolf Entertainment’s and Prime Video’s latest series, On Call, is set to redefine the police drama genre with its immersive storytelling and emotionally charged performances. Starring Troian Bellisario (Pretty Little Liars) and Brandon Larracuente (The Good Doctor), the show dives deep into the complexities of modern policing through the eyes of a veteran officer and her rookie partner. In a recent interview, Bellisario and Larracuente shed light on their characters, the series’ unique approach, and its relevance in today’s social climate.
An Innovative Format to Capture Realism
The use of cinéma vérité techniques such as bodycam, dash-camera, and cellphone footage sets On Call apart from other police dramas. This style plunges viewers into the intensity of each moment, creating an authentic, almost documentary-like experience.
“It’s intense and immediate. The format puts you right there in the moment. You’re not just watching these officers—you’re experiencing what they’re experiencing,” said Bellisario.
The unique filming style creates an unparalleled level of immersion for audiences. By placing viewers in the shoes of the officers, the series conveys the tension and unpredictability of their daily lives. This innovative approach ensures that viewers don’t just witness the drama—they feel it, making the stakes feel personal and real.
The Push-and-Pull Dynamic Between Mentor and Rookie
The relationship between Bellisario’s Traci Harmon, a seasoned officer, and Larracuente’s Alex Diaz, an eager rookie, is central to the series. Their dynamic reflects the generational differences, tensions, and mutual growth that occur in real-life mentorships.
“Traci’s been through a lot. She’s tough and protective, but she’s also questioning her place in a system that’s changing. Training someone like Alex challenges her to confront her own beliefs and biases,” said Bellisario.
Traci’s struggles are deeply relatable, portraying the challenges faced by veterans in adapting to a shifting landscape. Her journey is mirrored by Alex’s optimism, which is tested by the realities of the job. Larracuente highlighted this duality:
“Alex wants to do good, but he’s learning that it’s not always black and white. His relationship with Traci forces him to grow up fast, but it also gives him the perspective he needs to stay true to himself,” said Larracuente.
The layered performances of Bellisario and Larracuente bring depth to their characters, ensuring their on-screen chemistry reflects the complexities of mentorship and collaboration under high-pressure circumstances.
Addressing the Morality of Policing
On Call doesn’t shy away from tackling the challenging conversations surrounding law enforcement. By focusing on the human side of policing, the series portrays officers as multidimensional individuals navigating an often-controversial profession.
“We’re not trying to glorify or vilify law enforcement. We’re showing the human side of it—the mistakes, the triumphs, and the consequences,” Bellisario explained.
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The series’ approach reflects current societal conversations about the morality of policing. Rather than providing easy answers, it challenges viewers to grapple with the same questions its characters face, encouraging empathy and critical thinking.
“The show reflects the conversations happening in the real world. It doesn’t offer easy answers, but it does ask important questions about what it means to protect and serve,” added Larracuente.
By weaving real-world themes into its storytelling, On Call achieves a balance between entertainment and social relevance, making it a show that resonates with modern audiences.
A Vision Guided by Experienced Creators
As Wolf Entertainment’s first scripted streaming series, On Call benefits from a team of seasoned creators, including Dick Wolf (Law & Order), Tim Walsh (Chicago P.D.), and Eriq La Salle (ER). La Salle, who also appears in the series as Sergeant Lasman, brought his directorial expertise to multiple episodes.
“Eriq brought so much to the table. His experience and vision shaped the tone of the series in a way that feels both grounded and cinematic,” Bellisario noted.
This collaboration between accomplished storytellers ensures the show maintains the high standards associated with Wolf Entertainment. The cinematic yet grounded tone adds authenticity, elevating On Call above traditional police dramas.
A Bold Step Forward for Streaming Police Dramas
With its gripping storylines, innovative filming techniques, and emotionally resonant performances, On Call sets a new standard for police dramas. Bellisario and Larracuente’s nuanced portrayals provide a human lens through which audiences can explore the challenges and contradictions of law enforcement.
“We want audiences to see these characters as people first. They’re flawed, they’re learning, and they’re doing their best in a complicated world,” said Larracuente.
On Call isn’t just another procedural—it’s a bold reimagining of the genre. Its willingness to tackle complex themes with sensitivity and authenticity makes it a must-watch for fans of gripping, thought-provoking television. Be sure to experience the series when it releases January 9, 2025 exclusively on Prime Video.
About On Call
Release Date: January 9, 2025
Creators: Tim Walsh and Elliot Wolf
Executive Producers: Dick Wolf, Tim Walsh, Elliot Wolf, Eriq LaSalle, Peter Jankowski
Production: Universal Television, Amazon MGM Studios, Wolf Entertainment
Cast: Troian Bellisario, Brandon Larracuente, Lori Loughlin, Rich Ting, Eriq La Salle
Synopsis
On Call, a thrilling new half-hour drama series from Wolf Entertainment and Universal Television, is an adrenalized and visceral police drama that follows a rookie and veteran officer duo as they go on patrol in Long Beach, California. Incorporating a mixture of bodycam, dash-camera, and cellphone footage to create a cinema verité effect, the innovative series explores the morality of protecting and serving a community.
What are you most excited to see in On Call? How do you think its unique approach will shape the police drama genre? Let us know what you think on social media!
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