Okay, let's talk about a Brooklyn Nine-Nine episode that's practically iconic: "I Want It That Way." Even if you're not a die-hard fan, you've probably seen the clip floating around on the internet. It's THAT good.
The premise is simple, yet brilliant. A string of robberies plagues Brooklyn, and Jake Peralta is on the case. He gets a crucial lead: eyewitnesses who heard the suspect singing "I Want It That Way" by the Backstreet Boys.
The Lineup Heard 'Round the World
This is where the magic happens. Jake, with the help of Amy Santiago, stages a police lineup. But instead of just asking the eyewitnesses to identify the suspect, he makes each of them sing a snippet of the song.
The result is pure comedic gold. Picture a room full of burly, potentially dangerous guys belting out, "Tell me why!" in varying degrees of tone-deafness. It's awkward, hilarious, and totally unexpected.
And it works! One of the eyewitnesses, while initially unsure, is suddenly flooded with memories triggered by the awful singing. The ridiculousness of the lineup somehow jogs their memory.
Why It's So Funny
The humor in "I Want It That Way" isn't just slapstick. It's smart. It relies on the contrast between the seriousness of a police investigation and the sheer absurdity of the situation. The Backstreet Boys become an unlikely tool of justice.
Think about it: Jake, the immature goofball, is using pop music to solve crimes! It's the kind of outlandish idea that only Brooklyn Nine-Nine could pull off so well.
Plus, the commitment from the actors is incredible. Everyone involved fully embraces the silliness, making it even funnier. They sell the absurdity, hook, line, and sinker.
More Than Just Laughs
Beyond the comedy, "I Want It That Way" also showcases the dynamics of the Nine-Nine. Jake and Amy are working together, their contrasting personalities complementing each other. Even Captain Holt, the ever-stoic captain, cracks a slight smile (a monumental achievement!).
You see the camaraderie, the support, and the underlying affection that binds the characters together. It's more than just a workplace; it's a family, albeit a very eccentric one.
And let's not forget Terry Jeffords' quiet enjoyment of the whole situation. He's always the voice of reason, but even he can't help but appreciate the ridiculousness of it all.
A Lasting Impact
"I Want It That Way" has become a cultural phenomenon. The lineup scene is endlessly re-watched and shared online. People who haven't even seen Brooklyn Nine-Nine know about it.
It's a testament to the show's clever writing, brilliant performances, and ability to find humor in the most unexpected places. It's a reminder that even serious situations can have moments of levity.
So, if you need a good laugh, or just a reminder that life doesn't have to be so serious all the time, go watch "I Want It That Way." And prepare to have the Backstreet Boys stuck in your head for days.
