6.6 / 10 (based on 2774 reviews)
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Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Edie Falco, Michael Chernus, Adelaide Clemens, Russell G. Jones
Creators: Paul Attanasio
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1 season, 12 episodes
Shows Most Like Tommy (2020)
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6.4 / 10 (based on 5499 reviews)
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6.8 / 10 (based on 2430 reviews)
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6.9 / 10 (based on 9025 reviews)
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6.9 / 10 (based on 5376 reviews)
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Genre: Drama
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7.1 / 10 (based on 16788 reviews)
A New York firefighter relocates to Austin, Texas with his son, where he works to save people’s lives while trying to solve his own personal problems.
Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller
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7.5 / 10 (based on 12161 reviews)
A sharp-witted Marine veteran becomes a private investigator in Portland, Oregon, where she takes care of her brother who has Down syndrome.
Genre: Crime, Drama
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Briarpatch (2019)
6.5 / 10 (based on 2572 reviews)
A senator’s aide returns to her small corrupt hometown of San Bonifacio, TX near the U.S.-Mexico border to investigate the death of her sister – a local cop killed by a car bomb. She unravels a complex web of lies, crimes and conspiracies.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
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7.9 / 10 (based on 4592 reviews)
An ER doctor, who fled his native Syria to come to Canada, must overcome numerous obstacles to resume a career in the high stakes world of emergency medicine.
Genre: Drama
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2 seasons, 26 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
In the landscape of television, where cop dramas and procedural series are as common as coffee shops in a bustling city, “Tommy” (2020) stands out not because it reinvents the wheel, but because it brings something new to the table. This CBS series, led by the formidable Edie Falco, offers a fresh perspective on law enforcement leadership through the lens of its titular character, Abigail “Tommy” Thomas. Let’s strip away the usual TV gloss and get to the heart of what makes “Tommy” worth your screen time.
The Premise
At its core, “Tommy” follows the story of a former high-ranking NYPD officer who becomes the first female Chief of Police for the Los Angeles Police Department. This setup is ripe for exploration, not just of crime-solving and police work, but of the dynamics within the LAPD, the challenges of leadership, and the societal issues that bubble up in the melting pot of Los Angeles.
Why Edie Falco is a Force to Be Reckoned With
Edie Falco, known for her roles in “The Sopranos” and “Nurse Jackie,” brings a level of authenticity and gravitas to the role of Tommy. It’s not just her acting chops that make her compelling to watch; it’s her ability to convey the complexities of being a woman in a position traditionally held by men, without the script having to constantly remind the audience of that fact. Falco’s Tommy is tough but not unapproachable, authoritative yet deeply human. She navigates the politics of the LAPD, the city, and her personal life with a realism that’s often missing in similar shows.
Breaking Stereotypes Without Breaking a Sweat
One of the show’s strengths is its approach to character and storytelling. “Tommy” doesn’t lean heavily on the tired tropes of the genre. Yes, there are crimes to solve and internal conflicts to address, but the series shines in its quieter moments. For instance, the show delves into Tommy’s relationship with her daughter, offering a nuanced look at family dynamics that feels genuine rather than contrived for drama’s sake.
Moreover, the series doesn’t shy away from addressing social issues. From immigration to sexual orientation, “Tommy” tackles these with a sensitivity and relevance that resonate with current events. It’s this willingness to engage with the world beyond the precinct that sets the show apart.
A Supporting Cast That Holds Its Own
While Falco may be the linchpin of the series, “Tommy” boasts a strong ensemble cast that deserves recognition. From her loyal team within the LAPD to the political figures she butts heads with, each character is well-drawn and adds depth to the narrative. Their interactions with Tommy help to flesh out her character while also providing insight into their own.
The Challenges of Being First
One of the central themes of “Tommy” is the challenge of being the first woman to hold the Chief of Police position in LA. The show doesn’t gloss over the obstacles Tommy faces, from sexism and skepticism to outright hostility. However, it’s not all doom and gloom. “Tommy” also celebrates the victories, both big and small, that come from breaking barriers. These moments of triumph, often underscored by Falco’s nuanced performance, are some of the most satisfying in the series.
The Los Angeles Setting
Los Angeles is more than just a backdrop in “Tommy”; it’s almost a character in its own right. The diversity of the city, with its rich tapestry of cultures, is reflected in the cases Tommy and her team handle. Additionally, the political landscape of LA, with its unique challenges and opportunities, plays a significant role in the storyline. This setting allows “Tommy” to explore issues of national relevance through a local lens, making the show both specific and universal.
Why “Tommy” Stands Out in a Crowded Field
In a genre saturated with similar shows, “Tommy” manages to carve out its niche. It’s not just the fact that the series is led by a female character in a powerful position; it’s how it handles its themes and characters with care and complexity. “Tommy” doesn’t rely on sensationalism or melodrama to draw in viewers. Instead, it offers thoughtful storytelling, compelling characters, and a willingness to engage with the world as it is.
The Verdict
“Tommy” may not have the high-octane action of other cop dramas, nor does it indulge in the cynicism that pervades much of the genre. What it offers is something arguably more valuable: a reflection on leadership, diversity, and the importance of breaking molds. Edie Falco’s performance alone is worth tuning in for, but it’s the show’s heart and intelligence that will keep you coming back.
In an era where television is constantly evolving, “Tommy” proves that there’s still room for shows that approach familiar territory with a fresh perspective. Whether you’re a fan of police procedurals or simply looking for a series with substance, “Tommy” is a compelling addition to the landscape of TV dramas.