Brooklyn Nine-Nine Review: Return of the King (Season 6 Episode 15)

Brooklyn Nine-Nine Season 6 Episode 15, “Return of the King,” is a fun and visually satisfying episode that finally provides some rich insight into Terry. Melissa Fumero proves that she’s a leader behind the camera, not just in front of it. 

Fumero takes the perfect amount of risks as she directs the episode: enough to be interesting, but not so much that it ever feels like anything but authentic Brooklyn Nine-Nine.

Where the previous episode Brooklyn Nine-Nine Season 6 Episode 14, “Ticking Clock,” sprints by, “Return of the King,” is peppy and skips. The quick pace and action-packed story is fitting for a season that has already hit on some heavier topics like sexual harassment, having kids, and more. 

I miss Gina! I will admit, it is a little difficult to see her on the episode, knowing that she won’t be on the next one, and the next one, and the next one. 

Her guest appearance (sob!) hits its stride when she is sitting on the sidewalk with a literal knife in her back. 

It’s really refreshing and completely consistent with his character, to see Jake so endlessly supportive of Gina. The issue is her lie more than it is her busy schedule. 

Jake understands that being an ally to strong women means letting them be as ambitious and focused on career as they need to be, without expecting them to change. He gives that respect to Amy. It’s more remarkable than the show gives credit for, which is a good thing.

Brooklyn Nine-Nine is subtly and consistently showing us what allyship looks like and what feminism looks like, without putting it in neon lights. 

Gina in pain is so funny it gives me chills. Chelsea Peretti’s physical comedy is top notch, and it is a breath of joy to see her back at it. We’ll take what we can get, even if there is sorrow attached to the brevity of her visit. 

Both B plots work really well on the episode. 

Captain Holt calling Charles a good father and praising him for giving Nikolaj what he never had is beautiful.

I love how this show delves into fatherhood and the ways our childhoods seep into our adult relationships. It’s a serious thing, treated seriously, but also handled with slippery clown gloves.

It works because of the masterful writing and the talented actors who always add immense humanity to the scenes. 

I feel an enduring fondness for Charles that I haven’t quite felt this season, and for that reason alone this episode is a standout. 

Amy and Rosa together is ALWAYS magic. “Return of the King” is no exception.

I love the direction and use of props in their scenes. Amy watching the video is really nice, funny framing. 

The best part, though, is how these two women inspire each other. It’s like they are in a constant loop of strengthening, as they resist the other, but ultimately incorporate the other’s teachings into their lives. 

Rosa does, in fact, learn how to ask for help. But, Amy also learns to revel and celebrate in their ability to do things themselves. 

It’s never too serious and I really love being able to see them have fun and hug it out. 

Again, Melissa Fumero’s talents are stunning and she can lead a whole series. 

There are only a few episodes left in the season and after a streak of satisfying episodes, I feel comfortable just settling in for a fun ride. My fingers are still crossed that we’ll get a totally Terry episode, but I’m not worried. 

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 Thursdays at 9/8c on NBC.

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