Photo credit: www.tvfanatic.com
Critic’s Rating: 3.5 / 5.0
3.5
The saying about how “the boots make the man” holds a certain truth in the context of NCIS: Origins, particularly when it comes to the character of Mike Franks. His presence makes one wonder if Gibbs is still the primary focus of this series.
The show seems to have tapped into what its audience truly desires — more screen time for Mike Franks, a character beloved by many. It’s hard not to be drawn in, especially considering the iconic mustache he sports.
However, this episode can be considered one of the weaker entries in the NCIS: Origins lineup. While it was not outright bad, it lacked the emotional depth and intensity that earlier episodes delivered.
With the main conflict regarding Gibbs’ quest for vengeance largely resolved, the series now faces the challenge of defining its central narrative. The overarching plot appears somewhat nebulous, leaving viewers to wonder where the storylines are heading as Season 1 continues.
Exploration of Mike Franks’ Backstory: Welcome Yet Optional
As noted, this episode felt lighter, offering viewers a chance to breathe amid the suspenseful narratives prior to the winter hiatus. A gentler storyline can definitely serve as a palate cleanser after the plot-heavy episodes we’ve seen.
The exploration of Mike’s backstory was a welcome addition; however, it might not have been essential. In “Flight of Icarus,” the revelations about his life—such as his early years on a farm with his family—could have been integrated within a dialogue rather than necessitating a flashback sequence.
That said, if NCIS: Origins continues to delve into Franks’ history in a meaningful manner, as it has with Gibbs’ emotional journey, fans can anticipate more compelling moments featuring Kyle Schmid’s portrayal of the character.
Interestingly, a significant gap remains in the storyline involving Tish. The buildup from previous episodes has hinted at something tragic concerning her character, yet the narrative has failed to provide clarity or resolution.
Perhaps there will be exploration of this subplot in due time, akin to Mike’s curious stash of unused footwear in his garage, leaving viewers questioning the significance of such details in the broader storyline.
A Shift Away from Forced Romantic Tensions
A notable issue among viewers, myself included, has been the series’ clumsy attempts at developing chemistry between Lala (played by Mariel Molino) and Gibbs. Fortunately, Episode 11 presented their dynamics in a much more believable light, hinting at the possibility of romance.
However, before any romantic developments can occur, Lala needs to address her own tumultuous behavior, especially given her previous indiscretions. Her character has left many questions unanswered, and viewers are eager for greater insight into her backstory to assess her compatibility with Gibbs.
The tension surrounding Lala’s character is further underscored by Gibbs’ social life, as seen with attempts from Randy to connect him with new acquaintances. Interestingly, though Gibbs’ ex-wives don’t bear the name Amanda, there still lies a potential for relatable connections with Lala.
In collaborative settings, Lala and Gibbs shine brightest when pursuing cases. Their professional synergy indicates that this may be where their strengths truly lie.
Exploring Trauma: A Central Theme
This episode veered towards a narrative rich in emotional undertones rather than graphic violence. The storyline had the potential for heartbreak regardless of the direction it took, creating a poignant impact.
Initially, the circumstances surrounding the case left it ambiguous whether it would culminate in a suicide or homicide investigation. However, a telling comment from the victim’s father solidified the tragic conclusion.
Indeed, it’s commonly said that the ones who laugh the hardest are often the ones hurt the most. This theme resonates throughout the episode, highlighting how pain can manifest in unexpected ways.
Aspects of Mike Franks’ character serve as a reminder of the importance of recognizing emotional pain in those around us, as articulated through Mark Harmon’s reflective narration at the episode’s conclusion.
Looking Ahead: What Lies Beyond Gibbs’ Venegence?
With Gibbs’ vendetta wrapped up, a pressing question emerges regarding the future trajectory of NCIS: Origins. Season 1 Episode 9 left a significant mark on viewers with its unexpected twists, creating curiosity about the show’s next steps.
For the meantime, the series appears to embrace a case-by-case episodic format, which may not be a drawback considering the compelling narratives explored thus far. Instances like the episode featuring the priest exemplify the show’s knack for engaging storylines.
As for character development, there remains a strong desire for a deeper dive into underutilized figures like Mary Jo. It seems an oversight not to spotlight her character, considering her significance within the ensemble.
Ultimately, fans can expect both surprises and nostalgic echoes of classic NCIS storylines as the series progresses. Regardless, the charm of Mike Franks and his memorable mustache continues to draw viewers to this evolving narrative.
What are your thoughts on the recent developments in Mike Franks’ storyline? What direction do you foresee for the series now that Gibbs has resolved his vendetta? Feel free to share your insights in the comments.
Source
www.tvfanatic.com