Television Review: And the Rockets' Dead Glare (Homicide: Life on the Street, S1X07, 1993)

And the Rockets’ Dead Glare (S01E07)

Airdate: 17 March 1993

Written by: Jorge Zamacona
Directed by: Peter Markle

Running Time: 46 minutes

The episode And the Rockets' Dead Glare from Homicide: Life on the Street serves as a significant attempt to expand the narrative scope of the series, reminding viewers that the world extends far beyond the confines of Baltimore. This episode, which originally aired on March 17, 1993, explores themes of international politics, personal dilemmas, and societal issues, effectively broadening the show's horizons.

The first plotline revolves around the brutal murder of a Chinese university student, which sets a serious tone for the episode. Detectives Lewis (played by Clark Johnson) and Crosetti (played by Jon Polito) are called to investigate. They encounter Tamryn Chow (played by Bai Ling), a mysterious woman who reveals that the victim was a prominent student leader during the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests. She explains that he had been harassed and threatened by the Chinese government since then. Intrigued by her claims, Lewis and Crosetti decide to travel to Washington, D.C., to verify this information with officials at the Chinese embassy. There, they meet Mr. Dengshu (Alvin Lum), who acknowledges knowing the victim but insists that the Chinese government has no interest in silencing dissidents on American soil. This assertion is quickly undermined when they are confronted by Gruszynski (played by Ed Lauter), a U.S. Secret Service agent who discourages them from pursuing the matter further, suggesting instead that they enjoy a tour of Washington. While Crosetti eagerly embraces this diversion, Lewis considers their trip a waste of time.

The second plotline continues from previous episode, focusing on Felton (played by Daniel Baldwin) and Howard (played by Melissa Leo) as they prepare to testify in the trial of "Pony" Johnson. This subplot showcases Howard's anxiety over her testimony after making an error in court. Despite her immediate correction, she fears that her mistake could allow for killer zo ho free. Assistant State Attorney Ed Danvers (Željko Ivanek) reassures her about the strength of their case, which ultimately results in a guilty verdict for Johnson. Additionally, after overhearing Felton and Howard discussing Howard’s apparent attraction to Danvers, he asks Howard for a date, and she accepts.

Another significant plotline involves Bolander (played by Ned Beatty) and Munch (played by Richard Belzer) investigating a murder linked to marijuana trafficking. The victim is identified as a middleman in this illicit trade, prompting Munch to showcase his extensive knowledge about cannabis cultivation and its historical context in America. During their investigation, Munch advocates for drug legalisation, arguing that it could reduce violent crime—a perspective that resonates with Bayliss (played by Kyle Secor), and is opposed by De Silva (played by Steven Marcus), narcotics detective assissting the investigation. Despite their differences, detectives quickly solve the case and arrest the suspect.

Simultaneously, Captain Barnfather and Colonel Granger (played by Gerald F. Hough) offer Pembleton (played by Andre Braugher) a promotion to shift commander of the Murder Unit, but he is cautioned not to disclose this opportunity to Giardello (Yaphet Kotto). Pembleton grapples with this decision throughout the episode, discussing it with his wife Mary Whelan-Pembleton (played by Ami Brabson, Andre Braugher’s real life wife). Ultimately, he chooses to decline the promotion in favour of remaining a detective—a decision that underscores his commitment to his colleagues and his work on the streets rather than climbing the ranks within police hierarchy. His rare appearance at a bar with his colleagues signifies a moment of camaraderie amidst their challenging professions.

And the Rockets' Dead Glare is generally regarded as a serviceable episode that provides an insightful glimpse into the lives of its protagonists while weaving together multiple storylines effectively. . The subplot involving Howard's courtroom experience draws inspiration from real-life events detailed in David Simon’s book Homicide: A Year on the Killing Streets. Moreover, Pembleton's promotion offers viewers an intriguing look into Baltimore Police Department's internal politics; however, seasoned viewers might predict its outcome due to typical television drama conventions requiring continuity among main characters throughout a season.

One of the most compelling aspects of "And the Rockets' Dead Glare," especially for contemporary audiences, is its reflection on how America has evolved over three decades. The emergence of "Chimerica," representing the complex relationship between America and China as economic powers, is subtly critiqued through this episode's narrative lens. The suggestion that idealistic pursuits should not obstruct pragmatic partnerships resonates with current geopolitical discussions regarding international relations and economic cooperation.

Additionally, Munch's advocacy for drug legalisation presents an interesting contrast when viewed through today's lens. His countercultural beliefs may have seemed radical during the early 1990s; however, with marijuana now legalised in many states across America without ushering in utopian outcomes as once promised by proponents like Munch, audiences may find themselves aligning more closely with De Silva’s scepticism regarding drug policies.

In conclusion, And the Rockets' Dead Glare encapsulates Homicide: Life on the Street's ambition to explore broader societal themes while maintaining its gritty realism.

RATING: 6/10 (++)

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