9-1-1: Nashville Season 1 Episode 5 Review: Lost Children

When he can’t get past the feeling of betrayal, Blue spirals on 9-1-1: Nashville Season 1 Episode 5, “Lost Children.”

Uncovering only half of the truth of his childhood, Blue allows his anger and hurt to overpower his decisions, putting him in a life-or-death situation. Through that, though, he proves that being a firefighter is who he is destined to be.

Meanwhile, Roxie connects with a patient on a personal level when she saves her life, preventing her from overdosing. Her daring actions prompt personal reflection and some much-needed character development.

Firefighting is His Destiny

Blue is understandably upset to learn that his father has known of his existence his whole life and never attempted to know him. Heck, nerve-wrecking news like that would affect anyone.

However, I have an issue with the approach to Blue’s actions. Studying to pass the firefighter exams is a grueling, time-consuming act that only someone with a true passion would tackle.

Blue has proven he has that determination on his own. That’s why it doesn’t make sense for him to quit midway through his skills test, as some screw you to Dixie and Don.

If he genuinely wanted to stick it to his parents, it would make more sense for him to pass his test, get his certification, and then transfer stations. Not only would it cause emotional damage to both, but it would also allow Blue to achieve what he’s been working so hard towards.

Nonetheless, in the end, it’s his day-to-day heroism that allows the journey he’s begun at the 113 to continue.

Blue: Cammie, would you please tell my momma I still love her?

Amidst one of the most emotional moments of his life, 9-1-1: Nashville still finds a way to provide an intense adrenaline boost, with Blue barreling towards a life-or-death situation.

When a drunk woman gets behind the wheel, he takes it upon himself to make sure she doesn’t get anyone hurt. There aren’t many people who would be willing to sacrifice their own lives for the general public. That’s why this Blue scenario is a valuable part of his character.

His willingness to sacrifice his own life to save those of complete strangers is only further proof that he knows where he belongs. Saving others runs in his blood.

Helping Jane Doe

Blue might be the focal point of the episode, but it’s the B plot of “Lost Children” that provides some of the most thrilling instances.

Roxie and Taylor tag-team to rescue two children kidnapped by their father, and save the life of a young woman who overdosed. In just a few outings, the two have already cemented themselves as a power duo.

We know they work together exceptionally well in high-octane situations, but what we’ve been lacking up to this point is character development.

It’s crucial early on in a new series to establish a relationship between the audience and the characters. That’s why it’s thrilling to take a peek behind the curtain and unveil new details about Roxie’s background.

Through her help with Greta and reuniting her with her family, we’ve learned that she didn’t have an easy upbringing.

Growing up in New York, she had difficulty opening up to her religious parents out of fear of rejection, which led her to run away from home. In an unfortunate instance that too many people seeking help experience, the people she trusted roofied her and left her for dead.

Roxie: I was lost once, too. I wouldn’t be here if somebody hadn’t stepped up for me.

It wasn’t until she awoke in the hospital with her parents next to her bedside that she understood she wasn’t alone. Through her own grief and hurt, she brings Greta a sense of peace and joy at seeing her family again.

One small aspect of this scenario I find a bit irritating, though, is how fast the episode pushes past Roxie and Taylor’s midnight bonding moment.

Breaking down walls and fostering a connection with a victim is undoubtedly needed. What would have felt more genuine, though, is Roxie explaining the thoughts behind her actions in detail to Taylor.

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While there are a few letdowns in the execution of specific actions, 9-1-1: Nashville continues the momentum it’s built so far.

The drama of the Bennings and Hart families might be one vital piece of this story, but it’s often the secondary storylines that bring more exciting moments. That’s something the series is juggling quite well for the time being.

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9-1-1: Nashville airs Thursdays at 9/8c on ABC.

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