‘NCIS’ franchise learns to time travel with prequel series ‘Origins’

As someone who’s spent countless hours navigating the labyrinth of TV shows, I can confidently say that “NCIS: Origins” is a welcome addition to my lineup. The series masterfully blends elements of police procedural, family drama, workplace comedy, and action-adventure, all while maintaining a patriotic undertone that resonates with viewers.

In an ever-evolving world, we yearn for consistency and predictability. Just as we prefer to step into a room knowing roughly what it contains – walls, floor, furniture, not fire or toxic fumes – so too does the familiarity of franchises appeal to us. They might not spark great, groundbreaking artistry, but after a tiring day, one may not crave “The Young Women of Avignon” or a tire-encircled taxidermied goat. Instead, comfort and predictability are sought.

NCIS,” or Naval Criminal Investigative Service, is an ongoing television series focusing on a highly skilled team of investigators specializing in military crimes. It may seem surprising that such a specific topic could sustain numerous seasons over many years, but the writers have proven this assumption wrong, often stretching the connection between the military and their cases to its limits.

This collection provides a diverse menu of traditional stage performances. It includes a detective drama, a symbolic sitcom about family, a humorous workplace setting, a soap opera, a dramatic tale, and a low-cost action-adventure series. You’ll find attractive leading roles, a few comedic characters, a couple of peculiar medical examiners, a touch of romance – all common ingredients in such dramas, but “NCIS” excels at blending enjoyable relaxation with intense suspense. The military connection brings a patriotic flavor, which some viewers might appreciate, although the concept suggests that the military isn’t always spotless. These aren’t shows I typically watch, but it’s clear why others do so.

This franchise has featured versions set in Los Angeles, New Orleans, Hawaii, and Sydney, all incorporating local charm and flavor into a classic structure; some have ended their run, while others are still new, but none is expected to match the longevity or worldwide impact of the original, which begins its 22nd season on Monday.

After the broadcast of “NCIS” on CBS, we move on to the latest member of the franchise, titled “NCIS: Origins.” Unlike introducing a new city setting, this prequel takes us back in time instead, to 1991. In this story, “new recruit special agent” Leroy Jethro Gibbs (portrayed by Austin Stowell), who later becomes the leader of this team, is just beginning his tenure with the squad. At this point in time, the team does not yet carry the “C,” which appears on their windbreakers as an oddity but is quicker to shout at suspects when it’s eventually added to their acronym.

As a movie enthusiast, stepping foot into Oceanside feels like entering a new territory, specifically Camp Pendleton. Compared to the seductive backdrops of other “NCIS” series locations, this place is more about practicality than glamour – no offence to the city or its oceanic charm. The team’s workspace, a Quonset hut, mirrors this understated appeal, starkly contrasting the sleek, futuristic, tech-laden sets of modern shows.

Harmon, who departed the series following its 19th season and was subsequently replaced by Gary Cole, set the template for the “NCIS” team leader – a figure who is stern yet nurturing, showing signs of age yet proving resilient, always prepared to challenge established authority when needed. The character portrayed by young Gibbs, a Marine sniper recently brought back from Iraq after the murder of his family, does not fit this mold completely at present, but there are indications he might evolve into it: his set of rules, his intuitive instincts. At this point in time, Gibbs is heavily immersed in trauma, engaging in bar brawls and failing his psychological evaluation. There’s some apprehension that he may be emotionally unstable, not quite as erratic as Mel Gibson’s character in “Lethal Weapon,” but potentially posing a risk to himself and those around him.

In contrast to typical “NCIS” series where the main character is often the team leader, having Gibbs, who’s relatively new despite his experienced appearance, as a team member instead, can seem unusual. However, this setup is crucial because it allows Gibbs to shine, spotting details that others might miss and handling situations in unique ways. When he declares a suspect isn’t their man, it’s often true. This unconventional approach adds an element of imbalance to the ensemble cast.

1) Mike Franks, portrayed by Kyle Schmid, is the team leader and a former cowboy mentor to Gibbs, with his horseshoe mustache, sunglasses, and cigarettes, he embodies a 90’s cop dressed as a 70’s cop. (Muse Watson played an older Franks in some intense episodes of “NCIS” previously.) Lala Dominguez, played by Mariel Molino, is a sharp and cautious agent who challenges Gibbs, responding to his initial assignment with “No, you’re on my squad.” Agent Vera Strickland, who made a brief appearance in the original series, has yet to be fully utilized (with only four episodes available for review).

Initially, these episodes showcase intense emotions and personal struggles, marked by raised voices, tense facial expressions, and clenched jaws. To add a lighter atmosphere, characters like Randy Randolf (played by Caleb Martin Foote), who is friendly, talkative, and the only one in suits at work; “head secretary” Mary Jo Hayes (Tyla Abercrumbie); and Granville “Granny” Dawson (Daniel Bellomy), promoted to the K-9 squad and responsible for a dog named Special Agent Gary Callahan, bring humor. Bobby Moynihan offers comic relief, while Lori Petty and Julian Black Antelope provide forensic support. (“He’s just one dog, but he’s all the dog you need.”)

Regarding Stowell, he has a strong jawline and wide shoulders, yet his role seemed to spark much debate. However, he doesn’t give off the vibe of maturing into Mark Harmon. It’s worth mentioning that Sean Harmon, who originated the concept for “Origins” and was developed by franchise veterans David J. North and Gina Lucita Monreal, portrayed a younger Gibbs in “NCIS” flashbacks. Stowell appears to be rather tense. Yet, maybe that’s the intended characterization.

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2024-10-14 13:33