Television Review: A Model Citizen (Homicide: Life on the Street, S3X04, 1999)

A Model Citizen (S03E04)

Airdate: 11 November 1994

Written by: Noah Behn
Directed by: James McNaughton

Running Time: 48 minutes

The fourth episode of Season 3 of Homicide: Life on the Street, titled A Model Citizen, presents a narrative that feels notably weak, especially when juxtaposed with the highly regarded episodes from the first two seasons. While the earlier seasons set a high standard with their compelling storytelling and character development, A Model Citizen struggles to maintain this momentum. Even when compared to the first three episodes of the current season, which themselves were not particularly remarkable, this episode falls short, lacking the engaging plotlines and emotional depth that fans have come to expect.

One significant issue that exacerbates the episode's shortcomings is NBC's decision to reschedule episodes, which creates continuity problems that are hard to overlook. This continuity issue becomes apparent almost immediately as the main plot unfolds. The episode introduces Emma Zoole, portrayed by Lauren Tom, an attractive Asian American forensic artist from the State Attorney’s Office. Her arrival at the Baltimore Homicide Squad is intended to be pivotal; she seeks out Detective Crosetti, who had previously closed a case now headed for trial. However, she learns from Crosetti's partner, Lewis, that Crosetti is dead. This revelation is delivered in a rather flat manner, lacking the emotional weight that such a loss should convey. Lewis's immediate infatuation with Zoole feels forced and cliché, as he volunteers to assist her despite his partner's death. The ensuing romantic subplot between Zoole and Tim Bayliss devolves into what could easily be mistaken for a teen soap opera rather than a serious police drama. Their relationship quickly escalates into a torrid affair marked by absurd moments, such as their sexual encounter in a coffin.

Moreover, Lewis’s reaction to Bayliss's involvement with Zoole further complicates their partnership and adds unnecessary drama that feels out of place in this context. The revelation that Zoole has a cavalier attitude towards monogamy—dating another policeman on the side—only serves to highlight how poorly developed her character is within this narrative framework.

Another subplot in the episode, loosely inspired by an incident described in David Simon's 1991 book, revolves around Detective Munch, who is struggling to come to terms with the lack of success in his romantic life. Temporarily partnered with Howard, the two are tasked with investigating a case based on information provided by a black teenager named Lennox (played by Terry Dawson), who claims that his brother was shot on the street. Initially sceptical, they later discover that Lennox's brother is indeed in the hospital, having been shot in the stomach, and that the incident occurred at home, with Lennox himself being the shooter. Munch believes that the shooting was accidental and becomes determined to find the gun, convinced that the presence of firearms in the hands of children poses a significant danger. Unfortunately, his efforts are unsuccessful, leading to increased frustration. Meanwhile, community activist Sam Thorne, played by Joe Morton, demands that Giardello and the Homicide detectives take action to address the issue of guns in the community.

Munch’s difficulties are compounded by his defiant attitude towards city bureaucracy when he is required to attend an alcohol awareness course for his bar venture. His cynical remarks lead to his expulsion from class, jeopardising not only his business aspirations but also painting him as an outsider within both professional and personal spheres.

Meanwhile, Pembleton and Russert deal with the fallout from a previous case involving Wiggins, who has sued the City of Baltimore over Pembleton’s interrogation tactics that resulted in Wiggins being injured. This subplot adds layers of tension as Pembleton learns that although a settlement has been reached for a smaller sum than expected, he remains incensed over being unable to vindicate himself or prove that he conducted his job properly.

The episode concludes on a somber note as Felton returns home only to find it empty—his family has left him along with their belongings. This poignant moment serves as a stark reminder of personal loss amidst professional chaos; however, it feels somewhat disconnected from the rest of the narrative threads explored throughout A Model Citizen.

While there are moments within A Model Citizen that hint at deeper themes—such as gun violence and personal loss—the execution often falls flat. The plot surrounding Emma Zoole resembles more of a melodramatic teen soap opera than a serious police crime drama indicative of Homicide's earlier successes. Furthermore, poor continuity and unresolved issues related to Crosetti's death detract significantly from what could have been a compelling episode. Ultimately, A Model Citizen stands out as one of the weaker entries in Homicide: Life on the Street.

RATING: 4/10 (+)

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