What Makes Procedurals Tick: A Deep Dive into Their Appeal and Origins

Recently, I stumbled upon a compelling episode of a show that highlights a fundamental characteristic of the crime drama genre: the procedural. From Nancy Drew to 1960s Batman, these narratives follow a procedural pattern, often referred to as 'procedurals'. While the term seems straightforward, the essence of a procedural is rich in complexity and tradition. This article delves into the core elements of procedural shows and their intriguing origins.

Understanding Procedurals

Crime dramas have often earned the tag of 'procedurals' due to their meticulous adherence to a structured methodology. These programs emphasize technical details and procedural steps, often centered around law enforcement agencies, legislative bodies, or courts of law. The central theme revolves around solving crimes through a series of methodical actions and strategic investigations. In a procedural drama, a problem is introduced, investigated, and resolved within the same episode, making it an hour-long, self-contained narrative unit that is both captivating and accessible.

The General Formula

The general formula for a police procedural is a well-worn lock that ensures consistency but also predictability. Each episode unfolds with the commission or discovery of a crime, followed by a thorough investigation and, eventually, the arrest or conviction of the perpetrator. This formula creates a satisfying and almost comedic relief when smaller details—such as the peculiarities in communication practices—also tie into the plot. For instance, the text-message that was apparently sent by the woman before her apparent suicide included two spaces after each period, a detail that seems trivial but adds to the authenticity of the narrative.

Popularity and Accessibility

Procedurals are immensely popular because their predictable structure and episodic nature make them highly accessible to new viewers. Unlike serialized shows that require a complete viewing of the series or substantial plot knowledge, procedurals allow viewers to jump into any episode without feeling lost. This episodic format also makes it easier for viewers to return to a show if they have missed some episodes. One of the recurring ques in procedural dramas is the ability to run episodes in any order without significant disruption to the story. However, critics argue that the formulaic nature of procedurals can sometimes lead to a lack of character development, a common issue in many procedural series.

Character-Driven Procedurals

Not all procedurals are formulaic. Some series manage to inject character depth, providing an interesting balance between procedural structure and character development. Shows like Elsbeth, with Carrie Preston’s comedic styling, and Monk, are prime examples of how a procedural can shine through its quirky characters and unique approach. Other notable shows like psych, The Equalizer, The A-Team, and Mrs. Columbo showcase the flexibility of the procedural format. These shows introduce help from outside the standard team, bringing a fresh twist to the conventional procedural narrative.

The Etymology of Procedurals

The term 'procedural' and its related words have a fascinating etymology that traces back to the Proto-words that signify movement and progression. The roots of the word 'procedural' are found in the Proto-words that combine to mean 'to Go- or Yield Forward'. These proto-words evolved to mean 'Come Forward', 'Make Progress', 'Advance', and 'Go'. The term 'procedural' itself emerged from words that denote 'to proceed', 'to conduct', and 'to measure'. It eventually became associated with the 'records of the doings of a society', 'method or mode of conducting action in Parliament', and 'mode of procedure', thus encapsulating the essence of a structured and methodical approach.

Conclusion

Procedurals, with their structured and methodical nature, offer a unique blend of entertainment and educational value. From being a predictable and accessible format to showcasing profound character development, these shows continue to captivate audiences. Understanding their origins and the rich tradition behind the term 'procedural' provides a deeper appreciation for the genre. Whether it's a procedural drama that introduces a fresh approach or one that maintains a strict adherence to the formula, these shows continue to entertain and intrigue viewers alike.