How the Series Reflects Real-World Police Misconduct
Jon Bernthal stars as Sergeant Wayne Jenkins in the six-part crime miniseries We Own This City, which premiered in 2022 and is now available to stream on HBO Max. The series, based on true events from the Baltimore Police Department, has earned critical acclaim with a 93% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It explores systemic corruption and the consequences of unchecked power within law enforcement. Bernthal delivers a powerful performance as a rogue sergeant whose actions expose deep flaws in the system. The show’s release on HBO Max brings renewed attention to its gripping narrative and timely themes.
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What Makes Jon Bernthal’s Performance Stand Out
Critics have praised Bernthal for transforming into Wayne Jenkins with physical and emotional intensity, gaining weight and adopting a distinctive posture to embody the character. His performance avoids caricature, instead presenting Jenkins as a complex figure driven by loyalty to his team and a warped sense of justice. Reviewers noted that Bernthal’s ability to convey both charm and menace makes the character’s downfall more tragic. The actor has said in interviews that he studied real police footage and consulted with former officers to understand the mindset behind such corruption. This dedication adds authenticity to a role that anchors the series’ moral ambiguity.
Is We Own This City based on a true story? Yes, the series is based on the nonfiction book of the same name by Justin Fenton, which documents the rise and fall of the Baltimore Police Department’s Gun Trace Task Force.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes are in We Own This City? The miniseries consists of six episodes, each approximately 60 minutes long, and tells a complete story arc over its short run.
Why is the series relevant today? We Own This City highlights issues of police accountability, systemic corruption, and the impact of flawed law enforcement practices—topics that remain central to national conversations about justice and reform.
