Dragnet

Looking for something that actually makes you laugh? Dragnet delivers. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. 553 viewers have already rated it on TMDB — the kind of consensus that does not happen by accident. Dan Aykroyd is the obvious draw, but the whole ensemble earns its laughs. Put it on tonight and see for yourself.

There is a reason Dragnet keeps coming up in conversation. Sharp writing and a well-matched ensemble are what separate Dragnet from the crowd. LAPD Sgt. Joe Friday -- the equally straight-laced nephew of the famous police sergeant of the same name -- is paired up with a young, freewheeling detective named Pep Streebeck. After investigating some strange robberies at the local zoo and the theft of a stockpile of pornographic magazines, they uncover cult activity in the heart of the city and are hot on the case to figure out who's behind it all. Between them, Dan Aykroyd and Tom Hanks carry the comedy without ever forcing it. It hit screens in 1987. What keeps Dragnet from feeling disposable is a cast that clearly understands the material better than the format usually demands. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

For viewers who want something light without wanting something stupid, Dragnet respects your intelligence. It rewards viewers regardless of what else is in their watch history. A contained runtime means every scene is doing real work. Dan Aykroyd anchors an ensemble with real chemistry. Genuinely funny, consistently, across the whole run.

Dragnet was released in 1987, directed by Tom Mankiewicz. The full 106-minute film is available to watch now. Find exactly where it's streaming below, and TV Butler Pro makes it effortless to track your progress as you go. Just search the name, and Butler finds it instantly, tells you which service has it, and remembers exactly where you left off.