Gangland Uncover has a strong debut in Episode One of this mini-series about Charles Falco, who infiltrated the infamous Vagos Motorcycle Club to gather evidence of criminal activity. The show starts with some brief words from Falco, whose appearance is hidden, then switches to a tense scene where an undercover informant is being executed by a motorcycle gang. The viewer will eventually come to know all the characters in that scene.
From this point onward the show is built around Charles Falco's account of what happened back in 2003-06 when he was nabbed for being a crystal method dealer, and eventually infiltrated the Vagos as a special agent of the ATF instead of serving a long prison sentence. Falco is portrayed by Damon Runyan, who is in just about every scene, and also narrates from time to time.
As the episode progresses Falco makes contact with a Vagos chapter. He has to learn the motorcycle club's language, unwritten rules, and distinct culture very quickly. And he also has to learn how to ride a motorcycle, which amazingly, he has no experience.
Falco's appearance gradually becomes more hard-edged as he adapts to the biker culture. At the same time he must secretly report his activities to Koz (Ari Cohen), who is the ATF agent running the undercover investigation. Falco must walk a fine line between fitting in with the Vagos, yet not committing any crimes – at least any serious crimes.
Although Damon Runyan looks way too clean cut to be a biker, I think he does pull it off with his low-key temperament and gritty resolve. He keeps his thoughts closely in check, and plays up being a loyal, no-nonsense Vagos member. He also has to keep his girlfriend Suzanna (Melanie Srofano) happy as she suspects Charlie is hiding something.
There's no wasted time in Episode One as each scene moves the story forward at a quick pace. This is the kind of show you could easily watch several times and keep seeing something new that you didn't catch before. You will also notice that each member has a distinct personality and mentality, and are not all friends. While a few aren't too bright, others are actually quite clever and street smart. It will not be easy for Falco to pull this off. But once he has infiltrated the club, there is no turning back.
From this point onward the show is built around Charles Falco's account of what happened back in 2003-06 when he was nabbed for being a crystal method dealer, and eventually infiltrated the Vagos as a special agent of the ATF instead of serving a long prison sentence. Falco is portrayed by Damon Runyan, who is in just about every scene, and also narrates from time to time.
As the episode progresses Falco makes contact with a Vagos chapter. He has to learn the motorcycle club's language, unwritten rules, and distinct culture very quickly. And he also has to learn how to ride a motorcycle, which amazingly, he has no experience.
Falco's appearance gradually becomes more hard-edged as he adapts to the biker culture. At the same time he must secretly report his activities to Koz (Ari Cohen), who is the ATF agent running the undercover investigation. Falco must walk a fine line between fitting in with the Vagos, yet not committing any crimes – at least any serious crimes.
Although Damon Runyan looks way too clean cut to be a biker, I think he does pull it off with his low-key temperament and gritty resolve. He keeps his thoughts closely in check, and plays up being a loyal, no-nonsense Vagos member. He also has to keep his girlfriend Suzanna (Melanie Srofano) happy as she suspects Charlie is hiding something.
There's no wasted time in Episode One as each scene moves the story forward at a quick pace. This is the kind of show you could easily watch several times and keep seeing something new that you didn't catch before. You will also notice that each member has a distinct personality and mentality, and are not all friends. While a few aren't too bright, others are actually quite clever and street smart. It will not be easy for Falco to pull this off. But once he has infiltrated the club, there is no turning back.
