Eriq La Salle Returns to Acting in Dick Wolf’s Innovative Police Procedural, "On Call"
Eriq La Salle, renowned for his long-standing portrayal of Dr. Peter Benton on the iconic medical drama "ER," makes a compelling return to acting in "On Call," a new police procedural series spearheaded by Dick Wolf. While La Salle has spent recent years primarily directing high-profile series like "Chicago P.D.," "FBI," and "Law & Order," the opportunity to embody a seasoned sergeant in "On Call" reignited his passion for acting. Though initially hesitant due to his extended hiatus from on-screen performances, La Salle quickly found his rhythm, supported by the talented cast he helped assemble. This new venture sees him collaborating once again with Dick Wolf’s production team, a partnership forged over years of successful television projects.
"On Call" distinguishes itself from conventional police procedurals through its innovative storytelling approach. The series immerses viewers in the raw reality of patrolling Long Beach, California, through a dynamic blend of footage captured from body cameras, dash cams, cell phones, and traditional handheld cameras. This cinema verité style, a deliberate choice from the series’ inception, aims to create an authentic and visceral viewing experience, unlike anything previously seen on television. La Salle, serving as both actor and director, faced the challenge of balancing these diverse perspectives, ensuring the technique enhanced the narrative rather than becoming a distracting gimmick. Navigating this uncharted territory required careful consideration of how each camera angle contributed to the unfolding story, ultimately shaping a unique and engaging visual language.
The half-hour format of "On Call" further sets it apart, harkening back to the origins of television drama. Inspired by the classic police procedural "Adam-12," the series embraces the concise storytelling format, packing each episode with intense action and character development. La Salle explains that this intentional throwback allows the narrative to unfold with a focused intensity, mirroring the high-pressure environment faced by police officers on patrol. This compact storytelling style keeps viewers engaged, prompting reflection on the complex and rapid decisions officers must make in the line of duty.
La Salle’s character, a stern and by-the-book sergeant, presents a nuanced and potentially controversial figure. Embracing the complexities of the role, La Salle acknowledges that the sergeant may initially rub viewers the wrong way. However, he emphasizes his commitment to portraying the character authentically, allowing audiences to form their own judgments. This approach reflects La Salle’s belief in multifaceted character development, recognizing that not every character needs to be likable to be compelling. He relishes the opportunity to explore the gray areas of human behavior, adding depth and realism to the portrayal of law enforcement.
"On Call" also grapples with evolving public perceptions of policing. La Salle notes that the series consciously avoids simplistic portrayals, aiming to depict the complexities of law enforcement without a predetermined agenda. The characters in "On Call" are not infallible heroes; they make mistakes, grapple with challenging situations, and face the consequences of their choices. This nuanced approach aligns with La Salle’s desire to present a more realistic and humanizing depiction of police work, acknowledging the difficult choices and inherent ambiguities inherent in the profession. The series aims to spark thoughtful dialogue rather than offer easy answers.
At its core, "On Call" is a character-driven drama that explores the intense and often unpredictable world of frontline policing. Through the lens of rookie and veteran officers, viewers experience the immediacy and weight of split-second decisions made in high-stakes situations. La Salle underscores the series’ commitment to conveying the emotional and psychological toll of police work, emphasizing the importance of conveying the urgency and intensity these officers face daily. The series’ multi-platform viewing availability on Amazon Prime Home Video further expands its reach, inviting audiences to engage with this innovative and thought-provoking exploration of modern policing.
