Someone should compile (if possible) a list of essential episodes that takes out the fillers. The equivalent X-Files list is great.

I tried PoI myself and couldn't get through it, because it was just so dull -- run-of-the-mill low budget procedural with that glossy network-TV feeling of Hollywood reality to it (e.g., everyone in the show looks like a model, except eggheads or villains, where they're allowed to cast someone unattractive).

Several people have told me it gets much better, but I just don't want to have to wade through all the mediocre episodes.