As you know, of course, I have felt that since Warren Leight took over as show runner for Criminal Intent, the programme has dropped the ball somewhat, churning out what is moderately good entertainment, but essentially a sad attempt to marry the CSI format to the CI format and, of course, failing miserably because the two simply don't mesh in that way. CI relies on certain basic things that the writers seemed to have forgotten - showing us the crime from the criminal's point of view and using Goren as a specialist detective that can see things others can't.
And this week, the programme is back on form. Hip hip hooray!
Starting off with the curious murder of a man underwater (and sticking to the new house style of CI which means we get funky editing of the events over a funky hip track) that initially appears to be all about another terrorist plot, it soon turns into a rather bizarre attempt by a man to ensure that his son will be left with the fortune that is his legacy by not revealing one of his ancestors was a slave trader. It's a bit tricky and a bit complex, but it's actually a brilliant little story that gives us the opportunity to see the criminals do their bit, without giving away exactly who the murderer is; as well as give us the chance for Goren to investigate in his own unique fashion - in this case, doing extensive research at a library.
Characterwise, it is the regulars who shine. The guest cast all turn in more than satisfactory performances, though Kelli Giddish does a very good job as the manipulative blonde who uses her looks to get her way; but all are more than convincing when the ultimate villain of the piece tricks them all into framing each other for the original murder.
But, yes, it is the regulars who are stealing the show, as well they should. Vincent D'Onofrio gives us the Goren we remember: at the beginning of the episode he is instantly aware that the corpse can't be too old due to a scent he picked up, while at the end he gets to mentally trick the villain into giving himself away. Eames is back to being his straight man, but thank god she actually likes him again this episode, supporting everything he does and even covering for him when he pushes the socialite into the water. D'Onofrio is keen to show us that Goren still has little time for Captain Ross, and there appears to be tension between Ross and semi-regular ME Rodgers, which Goren significantly observes. One can only wonder if that particular plot thread is going to lead anywhere.
Ultimately, though, this is an incredible return to form for Criminal Intent, and an emminently watchable episode.
"A+"
1 comment:
One of the best episodes. A little tricky to follow the ending. But if you like history, this is the episode for you.
J.
Post a Comment