Brooklyn Nine-Nine Review: The Tattler (Season 6 Episode 3)
On Brooklyn Nine-Nine Season 6 Episode 3, “The Tattler,” no one solves their case. In fact, no legitimate police work happens at all. And it is an absolute joy of an episode.
“The Tattler” proves that figuring it out in life is far more about relationships than it is finding the answer. The point builds up throughout the episode and fireworks as we learn Gina is leaving the 99.
It’s the perfect emotional platter to serve the horribly sad news.
Gina Linetti- A Legacy
The next episode of Brooklyn Nine-Nine promises to be a tribute and farewell to our egocentric minx, Gina Linetti. But, NBC doesn’t wait to let Gina shine as the center of the 99 universe.
She is the best thing about “The Tattler,” and that is taking into account how excellent 90s Amy is on the episode.
Chelsea Peretti is unmatched in her ability to create a millennial wonderkind who still fits into this deeply uncool context. It is a testament to the writers sure, but it is truly Peretti who connects with everyone and gives us these emotionally meaningful relationships under a blanket of snark.
I already miss her, but four Gina-heavy episodes is the only way I want to say goodbye.
The decades-long friendship between Jake and Gina is given the focus on the episode, and it is just wonderful.
The big reveal that it was Gina who accused Jake of tattling leads to this a far better reveal: Gina has had Jake’s back every day since high school.
It’s stinking romantic and as I wipe a tear away I find myself so grateful for how this show lets platonic friendships mean just as much as romances.
Amy is on her own journey on the episode, and it is so very Amy (she would really excel as a dean at a high school).
Her separateness lets the episode be about Gina and Jake, while also developing her character. I love it.
It’s a dead tie for my favorite Amy moment between the vicious “hyped about admin”punch and the look on her face when she carries off the chemistry model to complete it.
I love how Amy loves school. It’s deeply endearing and it’s also an important representation for Latinx women to see. Our minds and curiosity are more important than how we fill out a romper.
Gina’s brilliance is evident on the episode and I like that the writing lets the characters note this aptitude.
The Todddddler app is not only a fun commentary on the ridiculousness of the tech-generation, it is also is a legitimately good idea.
Gina comes up with the idea on the spot, but it’s not out of nowhere.
She is a millennial mom and it is a real thing that it is hard to find other parents and kids to connect with when you live in a city environment.
Here the episode highlights something about Gina that is not often discussed: she is empathetic.
She seems vapid, but she has her finger on the cultural pulse. Understanding culture means understanding people and that takes empathy.
During a time where we as a culture are dealing with the emptiness of Fyre Festival madness, it is important to recognize that Gina is motivated by moral and community-based goals.
Have I mentioned yet that I love Gina?
Her conversation with Jake at the close of the episode is such sweet sorrow. It is a testament to the depth and richness of their friendship, and also a recognition that when we love a person, we let them grow. And so, we are ready to say goodbye (just kidding I AM NOT READY-NEVER LEAVE GINA).
Hang Ups
Boyle has been Rosa’s confidante in the past and it is refreshing to see that aspect of their relationship return on “The Tattler.”
Rosa is dating around and needs to make a decision. Boyle helps her do that, but not really.
Really the process is about the two reconnecting and Rosa finding an anchor during a time of insecurity.
She’s had a break-up and she is sad. Rather than unpack her feelings, Rosa enlists Boyle’s help to decide which lover to move forward with.
Rosa is decisive. She could absolutely do this on her own. But she invites Boyle in so that she has support, on her terms.
It is funny and lovely and includes an incredible flip.
Also, side-note, Rosa’s new look with a softer hair and a bold lip color is fantastic. Jake’s swirly hair is less of a glow up, but it still is a nice change.
Rosa’s entire arc on the episode works well and I hope we continue to explore what Rosa’s love life looks like through the lens of her Brooklyn Nine-Nine family.
Sounds Like Work
Terry helps Captain Holt to come to an important realization on the episode.
CAPTAIN HOLT: I can’t wait to go home and tell Kevin you can have fun without being productive.
Although Captain Holt initially eschews the radio game, we all know that Captain Holt cares about the 99. He is relationships focused as a part of his morality, but it is really cool to see him and the rest of the team embrace playing.
Each plot on the episode emphasizes the importance of people.
It is a nice and leisurely pause from police work, and it sets us up perfectly for the Gina-centric episode to follow.
Top One Niners
- “[The Tattler] is a sexy nickname.” – Amy
- “Why learn to grow when you can FIX the past.” – Jake
- “I’m just so amped up about admin!” – Amy
- I’m your origin story.” – Gina
What did you think of this episode of Brooklyn Nine-Nine? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Brooklyn Nine-Nine airs Fridays at 9/8c on NBC.
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Janelle Ureta
Janelle Ureta is equal parts Veronica Mars, Raven Reyes, and Rebecca Bunch, but she aspires to add some Tammy Taylor to the mix. An attorney turned teacher, Janelle believes in the power of a well-told story. She is currently exploring how to tell short stories, 140 characters or less, on twitter. She loves to talk about TV, and right now she can't shut up about Timeless, Dear White People, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, The 100, or Younger.