This FX crime drama created by Shawn Ryan is the very definition of gritty. The Shield follows a police precinct in inner-city Los Angeles that utilises a specialized force, Strike Team, to complete missions by whatever means necessary. This often means that the Strike Team goes outside the law to achieve its goals, regardless of whether those goals are in line with the interests of the police force, or the general public, as a whole. The team is led by Michael Chiklis' Detective Vic Mackey, who is the consummate antihero. Walton Goggins is terrific as Detective Shane Vendrell. The show blurs the boundaries between good guys and bad guys and examines motivations behind every action and reaction. The show doesn't shy away from brutal violence, controversial themes, and compelling character clashes. The Shield is famous for its intricate plotting and intense circumstances, and the fifth and seventh seasons are all-time greats. It features a great ensemble cast, including CCH Punder, Jay Karnes, Benito Martinez, Catharine Dent, and Michael Jace. It also includes periodic guest roles from great actors like Forest Whitaker and Glenn Close. Prepare to view each character and every situation in shades of grey rather than black and white, and this show explores the consequences of every conflict in dramatic detail.
