As with its other seasons, the first few episodes of “Brooklyn Nine-Nine”‘s fifth season begins by shaking up its formula before slowly re-adjusting to its own established beats, and it continues to make for a jarring but audacious creative choice on the part of the showrunners. By the time it returns to its established formula, things snap back into focus and the show returns to its strengths: Ensemble comedic acting, extraordinary lighting, clever plotting and a simple but straightforward spirit that often recalls the best of “Spin City.” Stephanie Beatriz’s Diaz has a number of remarkable sequences throughout and Andre Braugher remains the show’s standout performer, but Andy Samberg’s charming performance as Jake Peralta is the anchor here.
Rating: ★★★★ (out of 5)
