Southland managed to make the successful jump from NBC to TNT, and despite its short run (six episodes) it's worthy to talk about the best episodes from Season Two. After I watched "Maximum Deployment," the season finale, I realized that this show is just starting to hit its stride and meet its potential. While we wait for news on a hopeful pickup for Season Three, let's take a look back at the five best episodes from Season Two.
#1 – Southland, "Maximum Deployment" – S0206
Season Two closed out with far and away its best episode, which is a great sign for what Southland holds in store for us. Seeing Chickie (Arija Bareikis) take down the Canyon Rapist singlehandedly after a season of being berated (and not without reason) by supercop John Cooper was a stunning moment for her character and the show. We also saw satisfying developments with Russ' (Tom Everett Scott) return from the hospital (but out of the force?) and John's pill addiction.
#2 – Southland, "U-Boat" – S0203
This episode revealed Southland at its best, flexing its dramatic muscles through great storytelling and by showcasing its best characters. Ben's methodical hunt for an Asian girl with Asperger's who has wandered off was particularly compelling. I also enjoyed seeing the professional pairing of Lydia (Regina King) with Rene Cordero (Amaury Nolasco) grow. Hope to see Nolasco back for Season Three now that Lydia seems to be in need of a partner again (if not a boyfriend?).
#3 – Southland, "Butch & Sundance" – S0202
In a scene which rivals the best of The Wire, Officers Ben Sherman (Ben McKenzie) and John Cooper (Michael Cudlitz) make us feel what it would be like to stumble across a scene of ghastly murders. That in addition to Wood Harris' (Avon Barksdale himself from The Wire) entry on the scene as ex-con (but ex-reformed?) Trinny Day makes this a great hour of drama in the Southland.
#4 – Southland, "The Runner" – S0204
A focus on Lydia and Rene's investigation into a college student's rapid descent plus the return of C. Thomas Howell as Officer Billy Dewey made this a standout episode.
#5 – Southland, "What Makes Sammy Run?" – S0205
Shawn Hatosy, who plays Detective Sammy Bryant, got the spotlight in this one, and while I find the subplot involving his wacky, unfulfilled wife Tammi (Emily Bergl) to be irritating, the "cop part" of this episode was intense and entertaining. Bryant's attempts at making a difference with the Casper, a bright kid from the streets who could go either way, showed off Hatosy and Southland at its best.
