Precinct Hollywood (2005)

Cops are among the most indelible characters ever portrayed in the movies. Whether they're rogues like Harry Callahan (Dirty Harry), superheroes like John McClane (Die Hard), or morally bankrupt renegades like Alonzo Harris (Training Day), Hollywood keeps immortalizing members of the police force. Precinct Hollywood explores the evolution of the Hollywood cop film from the gritty realism of the 70's to the romanticized versions of the men in blue and offers insightful analysis and details about the connection between real-life cops and their cinematic alter egos. This one-hour documentary film, narrated by Frances McDormand, features interviews with prominent filmmakers of the 70's such as William Friedkin and Martin Bregman, up-and-coming directors Antoine Fuqua, James Mangold and Joe Carnahan, and actors who became synonymous with the genre including Ray Liotta and Roy Scheider. It's a thought-provoking look at our changing attitudes toward the men in blue. Airs Mon., September 5 at 10PM ET/PT.