‘Chicago P.D.’ Recap: ‘Pawns’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

CHICAGO P.D. -- "Pawns" Episode 12006 -- Pictured: Marina Squerciati as Kim Burgess -- (Photo by: Elizabeth Sisson/NBC)

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 1206 of ‘Chicago P.D.’ To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
One particular aspect of crime stories that is genuinely fascinating, is how every single green detective in these stories, is a master sleuth. Sure, the rookie might be awkward just a bit, but they know their stuff, they’re already grizzled and hardened and able to solve stunning cases with ease, and what makes that so fascinating… is how? How on earth can a brand-new gumshoe, know everything so well and be so perfect at solving crimes? Because people don’t just magically fall into what they do, they learn, they grow, they make mistakes and eventually master what they do, and it is just wild that new detectives are these polished products in stories, and it is why we are all so thankful for shows like Chicago P.D. on NBC.

Simply because this series doesn’t fall into such storytelling traps, and that adds to its wonder, its realism and its ability to engage and for proof… well just look at this week’s episode. Since ‘Pawns’ followed Kim Burgess closely, as she took the final exam to become a detective. Which involved a seasoned investigator riding along with her to a crime scene. Wherein Kim would take charge and be the lead detective, and her performance would determine if she would get the title of detective and where she would be placed as one, and sadly… it did not take long for Detective Suarez and Detective Burgess to receive their first call. One that involved a violent homicide during the attempted robbery of a catalytic converter.

Which of course, pushed Kim into action and well… she made some mistakes for certain. Simply because she was new to this, and worried about messing up. But for every mistake she made, she found a way to counter it and move the case forward. Because she wanted this, and she knew she could do it. So, slowly but surely, she was able to unravel the case and narrow down who was responsible and for her efforts, and after an extensive chase, she was able to bring the bad guy to justice in the most stunning way possible. Which of course, should have brought forth a happy ending. One where she was praised and adored and given her choice of assignments. But a mistake on Suarez’s part and the ugly nature of this case, ended with Kim being assigned elsewhere, but she did receive her new title and badge regardless.

Yet, there was some joy to find here, albeit strange. Because despite being ready to step into a new role at a new division, she was told to stay put, by Deputy Chief Reid no less. Who hammered her and Suarez during this case, and that was just out of sorts for him and left even Sergeant Voight confused. But what mattered most, is that we finally got to see a serious crime drama, handle a new detective’s career/first day, in a realistic manner. Where no strange knowledge switch was flipped or where some hidden vision was magically discovered. There were nerves, there were missteps, there was just straight humanity and a chance to see what Kim will be like going forward as a detective. Since she did inject kindness and gentleness into the role as needed, meaning that balance will be the order of the day for her. 

All of which made for an amazing and refreshing episode. One that truly bucked tradition in this genre, and also offered up a compelling case for certain. Because the hunt for those responsible for this fatal shooting was intense and full of twists and turns and stunning moments, and you simply cannot go wrong with that. Plus, this episode set the stage for more surprises down the line. After all, there is now a grand mystery surrounding DC Reid. Because we know he is just not known for grace and kindness. But he showed it here and there has to be a reason, and a price to pay for it. Which will be interesting to uncover. But while we wait, we can celebrate one amazing tale. One that truly offered up a different kind of detective story, and that should come as no surprise from a crime drama that is unlike any other. Until next time.

---

Watch ‘Chicago P.D.’

Powered by JustWatch