The Episode
EPISODE SUMMARY:
It's a chilly winter evening in Los Angeles, and Sergeant Joe Friday is on the case. "Big Try," the 28th episode of Dragnet, is a gripping tale of corporate espionage, corruption, and deceit. The story centers around the attempted murder of Richard Langley, a wealthy businessman with ties to several major corporations. As Friday navigates the complex web of alliances and rivalries between these powerful entities, he uncovers a sinister plot that threatens to destroy not just one man's life, but also the fabric of the community.
The atmosphere in this episode is tense and foreboding, with a sense of impending doom hanging over every scene. The sound design, masterful as always, amplifies the tension with the eerie echo of footsteps, the creaking of doors, and the ominous hum of fluorescent lights. Friday's calm and collected demeanor provides a welcome respite from the chaos, but even he is not immune to the creeping sense of unease that pervades every aspect of the case.
As the investigation unfolds, Langley's colleagues become increasingly suspicious, their alibis and motives called into question by Friday's sharp instincts. The lines between truth and deception blur, leaving the listener on the edge of their seat as they wonder who will be revealed as the mastermind behind the attempted murder.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT:
It's the early 1950s, a time of great social change in America. The post-war era has brought about unprecedented economic growth, but also rising tensions between labor unions and corporate interests. McCarthyism is on the rise, with Senator Joseph McCarthy using his platform to root out perceived communist sympathizers across the country. Fear and paranoia are palpable, as citizens wonder if they will be next on the list of "untouchables." Radio drama like Dragnet taps into these fears, offering a thrilling escape from the anxieties of everyday life.
The world outside the studio is also experiencing seismic shifts in technology and culture. Television is slowly gaining popularity, threatening to usurp radio's place as the dominant form of entertainment. The Cold War casts a long shadow over the globe, with the threat of nuclear war hanging over humanity like a specter of doom. Radio drama provides a safe space for listeners to confront these fears and anxieties in a controlled environment.
The relevance of Dragnet during this period cannot be overstated. As radio's popularity wanes, shows like Dragnet are fighting for attention against the rising tide of television. By crafting compelling stories that explore the complexities of human nature, producers like Jack Webb and Bert Granet create a sense of community among listeners, providing a shared experience in which to confront the fears and anxieties of the times.
WHY IT MATTERS:
What makes "Big Try" an enduring episode of Dragnet is its masterful exploration of the human psyche. Friday's calm, rational approach belies the complexity of his character, revealing a deeply intuitive detective who understands the intricacies of human nature. Langley's plight serves as a microcosm for the struggles of the common man, whose life is forever changed by the machinations of those in power.
This episode remains essential listening today because it demonstrates the fundamental craft of radio drama: the art of tension and release, of building anticipation and delivering payoff in equal measure. The pacing, the sound design, the performances – all come together to create an experience that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. As we listen to "Big Try," we are reminded why Dragnet remains one of the most beloved and enduring radio dramas of all time: its ability to tap into our deepest fears and anxieties, and provide a safe space for us to confront them head-on.
The World of
Why Listen Today
"The story you are about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent."