What I’m Watching: Person of Interest

Person of Interest: Season 3, Episode 11 “Lethe” (B+)

This episode was probably the show’s least thrilling installment in a while since it’s set in the aftermath of Carter’s death and Reese’s time off following the devastation of her murder and the failure of his revenge plan. But, by its end, everything got turned around, and this episode came together to send things in a fantastic new direction. Casting Saul Rubinek from “Warehouse 13” as the NSA operative whose brain tumor was causing him to say too much about covert programs was great, but even better was Camryn Manheim, who won an Emmy fifteen years ago for “The Practice,” in the too-insignificant role of his wife. Her presence prompted the episode’s best moment, which was the reveal that she wasn’t actually his wife, and instead working not for Collier but with Hersh as Control. That reshapes things in a big way, and it’s great to see yet another acclaimed performer choose to guest star on this show in a major role like this. This isn’t the first time that an episode has ended with all of our heroes in jeopardy, and let’s hope that Fusco can help coach Reese back into being useful just in time to save the day. Flashing back to Harold’s childhood was intriguing, and even more fantastic than that is the notion of a second machine existing. Root using books from Finch’s library to spell out a number he was trying to ignore was typically superb, and I hope that she gets a chance to shine outside of her willing captivity soon.