What I’m Watching: NCIS: Los Angeles

NCIS: Los Angeles: Season 1, Episode 9 “Random on Purpose” (B+)

This show is often reminiscent of the series that spun it off, and having one of that show’s signature players guest star in a front-and-center role is a nice treat. Abby never gets much of a chance to leave her lab unless she’s the target of a crazy stalker or psychotic killer, though it’s certainly fun to see her outdoors. Eric’s excitement at having Abby come work with them is a great way of welcoming the forensic expert to the Los Angeles office, and it’s terrific to see Abby agree so readily to go out on a date with him. I’m curious how viewers of this show who have never seen the original reacted to the character of Abby, since the other main link to that series, Director Vance, is a far less developed character, and much of what defines him has transpired on this show. It is a good thing that Gibbs and crew aren’t seen or heard at all, and that this is the only time Abby really gets puts in serious danger. The Los Angeles team doesn’t take any crap from anyone, and therefore their take-no-prisoners attitude is just what’s needed to rescue Abby before some violent serial killer chops her head off with an axe. The part of the dynamic that didn’t pertain to Abby was still very strong in this episode, starting off with Hetty’s reorganization of the desks and ending with Callen’s affirmation that it did in fact increase productivity. The most entertaining moment was the rescue attempt by Sam and Callen, where their debate about going in resulted in Sam’s allusion to Peter Pan. I’m glad they decided to use the fire hose instead of trying to fly. It was a good plan.