Third Watch’s ‘Ohio’ Episode: A Testament to Character-Driven Storytelling

Third Watch’s ‘Ohio’ Episode: A Testament to Character-Driven Storytelling

Original Air Date: March 20, 2000

In the world of television, it’s easy to get caught up in the hype of every episode being a ‘must-watch’ event. Promos tease us with shocking twists and turns, but sometimes, the true mark of a great show is an episode where nothing significant happens. This is where the strength of the characters and their interactions take center stage, and for Third Watch, the episode ‘Ohio’ is a shining example of this.

A Political Backdrop and a Focus on Character Interactions

Set against the backdrop of a political debate between Rudy Giuliani and Hillary Clinton, ‘Ohio’ finds the cops stationed in the hotel kitchen where the debate is taking place, while the firefighters and paramedics are on standby in the parking garage. With plenty of time on their hands, the characters engage in hilarious and poignant interactions that showcase their depth and development.

Bosco, as usual, is politically incorrect and belligerent, annoying Yokas and getting in the way of the pastry chefs. He even attempts to sing at one point. Bosco and his partner, on opposite sides of the debate, engage in a heated political argument, while Sully displays his ignorance of rap music but appreciation for poetry, much to Davis’ amusement. These lighter moments highlight the strong acting and comedic timing of the cast, particularly Coby Bell, who would later star in the sitcom The Game.

Relationship Struggles and Unsettling Stories

Kim faces further issues with Jimmy when she discovers her wages are being garnished to pay off his debts. Their repetitive arguments are reminiscent of a dysfunctional couple that keeps returning to each other despite their problems. Later, the characters share some of the most unsettling experiences they’ve encountered, with Kim recounting a tragic story about a girl from Ohio, giving the episode its title.

Technical Challenges and Bold Choices

From a technical standpoint, ‘Ohio’ is an interesting episode to analyze. The actors navigate through a crowded set filled with extras and ambient noise, showcasing co-executive producer Christopher Chulack’s preference for using and talking over background sounds. The camera operators also skillfully maneuver through tight spaces and numerous people. The decision to include a character-driven episode like this in the first season is a bold move, as most shows would wait until the characters have more established backstories. Despite still exploring these characters, the episode is one of the most successful of the season.

A Reminder of the Demands of Their Jobs

The episode concludes with a sudden call to a major motor vehicle accident, reminding viewers that these characters are always on call and rarely get a break from their demanding jobs. However, when they do have downtime, as seen in ‘Ohio,’ their interactions and relationships are still worth following. This episode serves as a testament to the power of character-driven storytelling and the importance of well-developed characters in a successful TV series.