Two of the recent story arcs in this series come to very bad ends, as Councilman Fisk (George Coe) is determined to return to his base of operations, and Kiki (Clinton Derricks-Carroll) is equally as determined to prove that he was innocent. Frank, always looking out for his officers, orders Bobby to take a day off, to sort out his problems. Andy is just as concerned about his partner & friend.
On 'Hill Street Blues', you could often count on the writers to refrain from true predictability, as they come up with resolutions that fly in the face of pat & happy endings for the characters. On the other hand, it was nice to see Bobby have a very raw, emotional response to the roller-coaster ride he's been on, and realizes what a jerk he's been. Mick has a similarly effective outburst where one can see how unhappy he is: the deskbound detective was tasked with giving a lecture to business owners, and THAT scene came to an uncomfortable conclusion as the owners and Mick get into a shouting match.
Henry is still moping over the entire Hector Ruiz situation; although it should be another poignant moment when he bursts into tears, it doesn't feel so genuine and just comes off as awkward. At least Howard is gracious enough to offer an apology.
'Death by Kiki' wraps up with an appealing moment as Fay gives birth to her baby, and Frank (in bed with Joyce, of course) receives the news from Henry.
In the end, this was another sterling combination of humor, heart, and great character moments.
Eight out of 10.
On 'Hill Street Blues', you could often count on the writers to refrain from true predictability, as they come up with resolutions that fly in the face of pat & happy endings for the characters. On the other hand, it was nice to see Bobby have a very raw, emotional response to the roller-coaster ride he's been on, and realizes what a jerk he's been. Mick has a similarly effective outburst where one can see how unhappy he is: the deskbound detective was tasked with giving a lecture to business owners, and THAT scene came to an uncomfortable conclusion as the owners and Mick get into a shouting match.
Henry is still moping over the entire Hector Ruiz situation; although it should be another poignant moment when he bursts into tears, it doesn't feel so genuine and just comes off as awkward. At least Howard is gracious enough to offer an apology.
'Death by Kiki' wraps up with an appealing moment as Fay gives birth to her baby, and Frank (in bed with Joyce, of course) receives the news from Henry.
In the end, this was another sterling combination of humor, heart, and great character moments.
Eight out of 10.