Season Five of “The Wire” offers an acceptable conclusion to a great series. The groundbreaking HBO original show should be thought of as a sixty-part movie.
The ten episode conclusion is perfect in that it wraps things up without overstaying its welcome. It again injects new characters while maintaining the history of the old ones. It doesn’t overdo it and at the same time leaves us wanting more.
The prophecy is scary
What’s great is that a story written in 2008 has relevance today. A majority of the plot revolves around budgetary restraints, employee cutbacks, and technology as a self-created weapon to replace us. The machines are taking over. Then and now. The prophecy is scary.
Journalism in Baltimore
Season Five involves the inclusion of a newspaper based on The Baltimore Sun in which show creator David Simon used to write for. Clark Johnson joins the cast as the editor. Along with Tom McCarthy as ambitious reporter Scott Templeton and the adorable Michelle Paress as Alma, the new characters are an intriguing and welcomed addition to the story.
“The Wire” has always worked with its casting.
Of course there are seasoned professional actors. But real politicians, cops, and actual criminals play ancillary parts. It makes the history of Baltimore a valued part of the show. The sheer scope of depth from its roster fortifies its perfection.
I won’t lie. Season Five, as is the case with most finales, is the weakest entry into the series. And it’s not even close. For the first time I found myself bored, and not being invested much. The story follows a more outlandish plot that, while I won’t spoil it, comes across as too contrived. The characters are given a proper sendoff. And of course, I still want to see more.
Bad guys in Baltimore
I rank the seasons in order 1-5 as top to bottom. You can watch Season One and have an amazing time. And you could end it there. If you decide to venture into Season Two, you’ll have to stay until the finish. Either way, it’s a win-win dilemma.
I urge anyone to check out “The Wire.” If you’ve seen it before, it has great replay value. I myself will be revisiting it many more times. If you have not watched it before, I envy you. Get your popcorn and favorite blanket ready. You’re in for a fantastic journey.
“The Wire” is available to stream.
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