'On Call’ Review: Prime Video’s new cop show misses the mark

Prime Video’s latest cop drama, On Call, comes from legendary producer Dick Wolf—but even his pedigree can’t save this bland addition to an oversaturated genre. The reason why Dick Wolf's first OTT procedural doesn't leave a lasting impact is because it isn't catered to binge-watchers.

While it borrows heavily from shows like The Rookie, now in its seventh season and buoyed by Nathan Fillion’s star power, Dick Wolf's latest fails to offer anything genuinely fresh or memorable.

The eight-episode season follows LBPD veteran Traci Harmon (Troian Bellisario) and her rookie partner Alex Diaz (Brandon Larracuente) as they navigate the challenges of gang violence and street crime. While the premise offers potential, the show’s execution fails to rise above familiar tropes.

One standout feature is the use of bodycam footage, which is seamlessly integrated with traditional filming. However, while this technique feels immersive, it’s not entirely new—The Rookie has employed a similar approach for years, and the novelty here wears thin quickly. The same goes for the realistic action sequences, which, while well-executed, fail to elevate the show beyond its competitors.

Troian Bellisario delivers moments of intensity as the hardnosed Traci Harmon, but these flashes are too infrequent to anchor the show. Meanwhile, Brandon Larracuente’s portrayal of rookie Alex Diaz often feels one-dimensional, with his tendency to stumble into trouble becoming more frustrating than endearing. Their dynamic lacks the spark needed for a show centered on their partnership.

While the showrunners attempt to flesh out the characters with backstories, these feel rushed and superficial, offering little depth or emotional connection for viewers to invest in. The chemistry between Bellisario and Larracuente is inconsistent—while there are moments of camaraderie, their interactions often feel forced, lacking the natural rapport needed to anchor the show.

Ultimately, On Call feels like a missed opportunity. Despite an interesting premise and moments of potential, the show struggles to find its footing in a genre dominated by stronger contenders. With uninspired performances, a lack of originality, and uneven character development, On Call may struggle to earn a second season—if viewers even stick around that long.