Anyone watching this show? I'm liking it so far and the picture quality is great. Thoughts?

One of the better new shows IMO.

The critics generally savaged it in thbe Fall Previews, but I have found it to be consistently entertaining.

And despite its time slot (against Lost) it has been building a decent audience:

(More from Marc Berman’s Thursday, October 20, 2005 Programming Insider column at Mediaweek.com)

“…Yes, Dear led into the just full season-renewed Criminal Minds with a comfortable third-place 8.8/12 in the overnights, 12.44 million viewers and a 3.8/ 9 among adults 18-49 at 9 p.m. Considering Criminal Minds faces Lost, that is impressive…”

“Criminal Minds” ratings history

(updated in post #69)

But we'll have to wait until after baseball ends, and the males presumably return to entertainment programming, to see what this all really means.

Real men don't watch baseball. :)

Solid show. I'm just pissed that my DVR didn't record it for some reason last night. I have 2 damn tuners with Lost recording on one Criminal Minds should have been recorded on the other.

Swami,

That is why I also record the analog channel of my must see shows on on of my Panny DVD recorders with HDD's just in case of a glitch on my DCT6412. Fortunately last night my 6412 caugt both shows in their entirety.

I really enjoyed the Crimnial minds episode (went home for lunch and watched it), something about hot twin blondes made the show all that much better. :)

I like this show a lot. It's on my weekly DVR list. I enjoy almost anything Patinkin is in. I really miss Dead Like Me...

It amazes me that it keeps growing against "Lost".
I never would have believed it.
But in this case the CBS execs made a great move: starting it behind CSI's season premiere on Thursday night to get it sampled.
Had they just begun it against "Lost" it probably never could have survived.

This show rocks! I watched it for the first time last night, and it smokes! Literally lol.

Anyone else like it?

Who does the music for that show? The music last night was very cerebral...would love to know who wrote that stuff!

nc

I agree this is one of my favorite new shows.

Merged

It replaced 'Threshold' last night. Doesn't bode well for Threshold.

Wolfie

Threshold was cancelled.

Threshold was cancelled.
...so it REALLY doesn't bode well for Threshold. Is that what you're trying to say? :D

I watched last night for the first time. I liked it too. The "shotgun" scenes were pretty cool. I somehow doubt my wife will let me watch this instead of LOST. For some reason, I just can't get into any J.J. Abrams shows. They all seem VERY sneeky to me. Like, how can a show continue to ask questions, ut never give answers. Alias did it. Now LOST does it. Weak writting in my opinion, but then again, I don't have J.J. Abrams income either.

Who does the music for that show? The music last night was very cerebral...would love to know who wrote that stuff!

This week's season finale used a worn-out producers' trick to leave viewers to stew over the apparent but not certain murder of a team member over the Summer. A shot was fired in the last split-second of the program, without the results being shown. Why insult the audience of what has generally been a dignified and straight-forward show by such a tactic?

Was last night the season ending..I thought they had one one show next week?

Was last night the season ending..I thought they had one one show next week?
It said part 1 of 2 in the guide yesterday. But why werent previews of next weeks show given?

nc

Regarding PQ, here's an extract from a recently posted 'production-insider' article: (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7586912&&#post7586912)
Tellefsen says that CBS' "Criminal Minds" and "CSI: Miami" are being finished in HD SR and that ABC's "What About Brian" was shot with Panavision's Genesis camera and switched to HD SR in post.
HD SR refers to Sony's newer, higher-PQ HDCAM-SR tape machines, which CBS requires for final delivered tapes. That doesn't indicate what production hardware preceded HD SR, though, as noted in this follow-on post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7594365&&#post7594365). Perhaps someone has the specifics. How much PQ can vary on home screens with newer production hardware, when everything must be compressed to <17 Mbps (ATSC video payload) anyway seems to be a fine point. (CBS' earlier required-delivery HD D5 tapes typically compress to ~270 Mbps, while the HDCAM-SRs are ~400 Mbps; portable SW1s have a 800-Mbps mode.) -- John

This week's season finale used a worn-out producers' trick to leave viewers to stew over the apparent but not certain murder of a team member over the Summer. A shot was fired in the last split-second of the program, without the results being shown. Why insult the audience of what has generally been a dignified and straight-forward show by such a tactic?

I picked up on this show about midway through the season and really enjoy it. If what you say is correct then I would agree with the characterization "worn-out producer's trick". However, I wasn't even aware it was a multi-parter: it sort of looked that way during the show but when I checked the D* program guide it didn't say "Part 1", so I was taken aback at the end. I'll try and check and see if there is another part to it this season; I was sort of hoping, as you indicated, that the writing on this show would be a bit above the "24" type cliffhanger-non-cliffhanger.

=NLK=

Titantv says not on next week and 5/24 starts repeats

Whenever a cast member of a show like this decides to leave, a sudden and spectacular death for the character is often staged. Perhaps this actress is going to pursue greener pastures elsewhere, just the way it happened on "NCIS" last year. I got some hints that Mandy Patinkin might be moving on, as well. His character was very disturbed and depressed that his last refuge from the gruesome realities of his job, at his remote cabin, had been discovered and violated. But, this issue wasn't developed further and the season ended without any more references to it. The final scene of the show saved the writers from having to concoct anything substantial and gave them a multitude of options to pursue over the Summer for the start of next season. Maybe, they had just reached the budgetary limit for the season and were told to cut it off cold. After all, they can't go to Congress and beg for more money to fight the bad guys.

"real men don't watch baseball"???

If being a football fan makes you feel more "manly" I guess you've found your small penis compensator.

I think the first two episodes this season were fantastic!

Jericho & Criminal Intent
Dark Wednesday on CBS

wow another solid episode tonight, this show keeps getting better and better

Loved tonight's episode. This show never fails to entertain!

This is one of my favorite shows on TV.

Loved tonight's episode. This show never fails to entertain!


what happened to the last 5 minutes or so... my friggin DVR cut off... :(

all i got was the wife was missing from the police station and everyone was running out after her...

The wife was the " dominate one " and she put the guy up to it. She was running the video camara.

This is one of the best shows on TV. I have had a SP for it from day one.


Bill

This show really kicks ass!

(From Marc Berman’s Thursday, October 12,, 2006, Programming Insider column at Mediaweek.com )

“…At 9 p.m., CBS’ Criminal Minds actually moved ahead of ABC’s Lost in the overnights, while trailing in total viewers by just 180,000 -- an amazing accomplishment (and a cause of great concern for ABC once new Taye Diggs drama Day Break temporarily steps in for three months in November). Take a look:

Wednesday 9 p.m.
Lost (ABC)
Overnights: 11.4/17 (#2), Viewers: 16.66 million (#1); A18-49: 6.7/17 (#1)

Criminal Minds (CBS)
Overnights: 11.9/17 (#1), Viewers: 16.48 million (#2), A18-49: 4.4/11 (#2)...”

http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/newsletters/proginsider/index.jsp

(From Marc Berman’s Thursday, October 12,, 2006, Programming Insider column at Mediaweek.com )

“…At 9 p.m., CBS’ Criminal Minds actually moved ahead of ABC’s Lost in the overnights, while trailing in total viewers by just 180,000 -- an amazing accomplishment (and a cause of great concern for ABC once new Taye Diggs drama Day Break temporarily steps in for three months in November). Take a look:

Wednesday 9 p.m.
Lost (ABC)
Overnights: 11.4/17 (#2), Viewers: 16.66 million (#1); A18-49: 6.7/17 (#1)

Criminal Minds (CBS)
Overnights: 11.9/17 (#1), Viewers: 16.48 million (#2), A18-49: 4.4/11 (#2)...”

http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/newsletters/proginsider/index.jspLooks like a distant second in the prime demographic. All the old people are watching CM. I'm guessing they won't be into the Taye Diggs Groundhog-Day Break show either :).


ron

Total bull$hit. Seems to me, an FBI agent, Elle, would/could never do what she did. Shoot someone in cold blood. I sw no evidence in other episodes this season that she was "snapping" (did I miss something? wouldn't be the first time lol).

Other than that, this show has been very good. I watch every week. Jason is a cool character. I hope we see more of his outside-of-work life.

I agree nashville, I have been watching the shwo from the beginning and E's changed behavior is sudden. I think see is on the way out of the show and this is the way the writers want her off.

Total bull$hit. Seems to me, an FBI agent, Elle, would/could never do what she did. Shoot someone in cold blood.

Probably but it makes great TV. If people wanted super intelligent accurate representations they could read technical manuals on the subject or worse watch PBS.

I think it's because she got shot and what ever else happened to her in that scene.

... at the very least, a psychiatric evaluation. Maybe by Reid lol.

Total bull$hit. Seems to me, an FBI agent, Elle, would/could never do what she did. Shoot someone in cold blood. I sw no evidence in other episodes this season that she was "snapping" (did I miss something? wouldn't be the first time lol).
-snip-


Well, that may be but it's no more bull$hit than her getting shot at point blank range and surviving.

If your concern is that it denigrates FBI agents and the vetting the agency does then that's a separate concern, I'm not addressing that. However.....

Outside of a few incidents I can't think of a single show where you don't already know what's going and not going to happen to the lead characters because either a: they are lead characters and you know they won't be killed off or b: the writers WON'T show supposed good guys committing a crime or heinous act. For example, you KNOW Jack Bauer is always going to prevail, so it takes the suspense out of things for many of us. I was SURE Lola wouldn't shoot the guy at the end because she couldn't be shown committing murder. The fact that CM had the b*lls to do something like this (similar to the first year of Shield or 24 and some others) actually puts the audience on notice that you can NEVER be too sure what is going to happen on the show. Someone else made this point first but I think it really is going to make people watch CM because you might see something you wouldn't expect.

=NLK=

(From Marc Berman’s Thursday, October 19, 2006, Programming Insider column at Mediaweek.com )

“…At 9 p.m., although ABC’s deteriorating Lost continues to own the hour among adults 18-49, CBS’ competing Criminal Minds inched past the thriller in total viewers for the first time ever. Lost averaged an 11.3/17 in the overnights (#1), 16.07 million viewers (#2) and a 6.5/16 among adults 18-49 (#1). The vastly improved Criminal Minds came in at an 11.1/16 in the overnights (#2), 16.10 million viewers (#1) and a 4.5/11 among adults 18-49 (#2). Take a look at how CBS has made inroads in this time period in just one year, and how Lost has dipped by double-digit percentages.

Wednesday 9 p.m.
Lost (ABC)
10/19/05 - Overnights: 13.9/20 (#1)
Viewers: 21.38 million (#1)
A18-49: 9.3/22 (#2)
10/18/06 - Overnights: 11.3/17 (#1)
Viewers: 16.07 million (#2)
A18-49: 6.5/16 (#1)
Percent Change – Overnights: -19
Viewers: -25
A18-49: -30

Criminal Minds (CBS)
10/19/05 - Overnights: 8.8/12 (#3)
Viewers: 12.79 million (#3)
A18-49: 3.9/ 9 (#3)
10/18/06 - Overnights: 11.1/16 (#2)
Viewers: 16.10 million (#1)
A18-49: 4.5/11 (#2)
Percent Change – Overnights: +26
Viewers: +26
A18-49: +15 ...”

• Source: Nielsen Media Research data

http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/newsletters/proginsider/index.jsp

Typically, when actors want to leave a show like this, they either kill-off their characters or have them commit career-ending acts like this. It usually happens at the end of a season or shortly after the start of a new one. Apparently, the actress who plays "Elle", wants to move on to roles that better suit her vision of how she wants her own career to develop. I can't imagine the producers would want to dump someone who brings such class and charm to the show. Actually, all the main ensemble of actors on this show are very dignified and talented.

But, perhaps there's a plot twist to all this, that doesn't seem logical at this point. There's a trend in TV shows to have most, if not all the characters, showing significant flaws in character and behavior. No more heroes of foursquare virtue in modern times. How many people are like that in real life, who don't have at least one foot of clay, anyway? I've personally known only a handful who managed to keep any bad sides concealed from me.

(From Marc Berman’s Thursday, October 19, 2006, Programming Insider column at Mediaweek.com )

“…At 9 p.m., although ABC’s deteriorating Lost continues to own the hour among adults 18-49, CBS’ competing Criminal Minds inched past the thriller in total viewers for the first time ever. Lost averaged an 11.3/17 in the overnights (#1), 16.07 million viewers (#2) and a 6.5/16 among adults 18-49 (#1). The vastly improved Criminal Minds came in at an 11.1/16 in the overnights (#2), 16.10 million viewers (#1) and a 4.5/11 among adults 18-49 (#2). Take a look at how CBS has made inroads in this time period in just one year, and how Lost has dipped by double-digit percentages.

Wednesday 9 p.m.
Lost (ABC)
10/19/05 - Overnights: 13.9/20 (#1)
Viewers: 21.38 million (#1)
A18-49: 9.3/22 (#2)
10/18/06 - Overnights: 11.3/17 (#1)
Viewers: 16.07 million (#2)
A18-49: 6.5/16 (#1)
Percent Change – Overnights: -19
Viewers: -25
A18-49: -30

Criminal Minds (CBS)
10/19/05 - Overnights: 8.8/12 (#3)
Viewers: 12.79 million (#3)
A18-49: 3.9/ 9 (#3)
10/18/06 - Overnights: 11.1/16 (#2)
Viewers: 16.10 million (#1)
A18-49: 4.5/11 (#2)
Percent Change – Overnights: +26
Viewers: +26
A18-49: +15 ...”

• Source: Nielsen Media Research data

http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/newsletters/proginsider/index.jsp

I wonder how much the increasing availability of dual-tuner HD DVRs will change the do or die nature of a show, that is pitted against a top-rated one in its time-slot? With my DVR, I now have the option of watching both HD shows in such pairings, and can call my SD DVD/HDD recorder into service to catch a third one, if it's on at the same time. I almost never watch any show live, so I can skip past commercials. With the On Demand selections of primetime shows increasing on cable and Internet services, many people don't even have to bother to record them, to watch them up to a month later. I think that time-slot positioning will be steadily declining in importance and perhaps in the future, many good shows will survive, that might have earlier been shot-down by an unfortunate scheduling against a more established one.

Total bull$hit. Seems to me, an FBI agent, Elle, would/could never do what she did. Shoot someone in cold blood. I sw no evidence in other episodes this season that she was "snapping" (did I miss something? wouldn't be the first time lol).

I agree.....totally out of character for her.....even the almost-evil grin!
And more unbelievable.....that they would let her go undercover like that
so soon after being traumatized by her recent attack. C'mon....!

This show really kicks ass!

I agree I love this show and have watched since day 1 nice to see the ratings are still climbing.

Seeing a show like this is proof why CBS is consistently the most watched network... maybe CBS could loan NBC some of their writers :)

Total bull$hit. Seems to me, an FBI agent, Elle, would/could never do what she did. Shoot someone in cold blood. I sw no evidence in other episodes this season that she was "snapping" (did I miss something? wouldn't be the first time lol).
There was plenty of build up for this event. Aside from her being shot, in season one several episodes showed her having problems adjusting to the life of an FBI agent, and in the "Unfinished Business" episode we saw that Elle has emotional issues handling sexual offenders.

As for saying that an FBI agent could never do what she did...you're being far too idealistic. These sorts of things really do happen. Some (a small number, one hopes) police officers have killed indiscriminately, some U.S. soldiers in Iraq committed rape, etc. All people -- police officers, FBI agents, and religious figures included -- are capable of committing immoral acts.

Since I'm sure Gideon and Hotchner know she did it on purpose, I'm curious to see if she does end up leaving or if they just "sweep it under the rug."

I'd hate to see her go, she's a hottie.

(From Marc Berman’s Thursday, October 26, 2006, Programming Insider column at Mediaweek.com )

“…Once again, the little show that could, CBS’ Criminal Minds, gave ABC’s Lost a run for dominance in total viewers. And, yes, that is one of the biggest stories worth telling this season…
At 9 p.m., there are now two shows dominating the hour, ABC’s Lost and CBS’ Criminal Minds. Take a look:

Wednesday 9 p.m.
Lost (ABC)
Overnights: 11.5/17 (#1t)
Viewers: 16.80 million (#1)
A18-49: 6.9/17 (#1)

Criminal Minds (CBS)
Overnights: 11.5/17 (31t)
Viewers: 16.59 million (#2)
A18-49: 4.4/11 (#2)

Criminal Minds, of course, is up by double-digit percentages year-to-year, while Lost is just the opposite. As for last night’s episode of Lost, all I can say is it was one of the best I have ever seen. Too bad, again, that ABC is making the mistake of taking it off for three months in place of upcoming drama Day Break, which debuts on Nov. 15….”

• Source: Nielsen Media Research data
http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/newsletters/proginsider/index.jsp

So, is she off the show? Or is this just a partial time off?

I'd hate to see her go, she's a hottie.

Not since she got here hair cut.

Since I'm sure Gideon and Hotchner know she did it on purpose, I'm curious to see if she does end up leaving or if they just "sweep it under the rug."

I'd hate to see her go, she's a hottie.

First saw her on NYPD Blue.

I wonder why they keep having the hot female characters leave in disgrace instead of offing them or finding some more honorable way to move them on. CSI:NY did it to Anna Belknap's predecessor last year.

They should have just had Elle die offscreen in the season premiere, a la Lauren Lee Smith in Mutant X.

I'd hate to see her go, she's a hottie.

They are replacing her with Paget Brewster who is also a hottie so it shouldn't be that bad regarding just that aspect of the show.

Not since she got here hair cut.

True, that haircut was awful. I was thinking back to Season 1 and when I saw her on The Sopranos in a bra. Very hot!

I guess I missed an episode, what happen to Elle? Or after she killed that guy, tonight's episode was the next one and she is gone?

I guess I missed an episode, what happen to Elle? Or after she killed that guy, tonight's episode was the next one and she is gone?

There was a new group picture of the cast tonight and she wasn't included. Do you suppose that indicates anything?

just a few observations...

Reid seem to have less screen time.

Blondie had allot of screen time. (Perhaps making up for thr brunette not being on the show anymore.)

Terrible acting on the part of the three girls in the bunker.

nc

John, you missed the two episodes

1. She killed a guy in cold blood
2. Second episode she resigned from the FBI

John, you missed the two episodes

1. She killed a guy in cold blood
2. Second episode she resigned from the FBI

I saw the one where she killed that guy, but I missed the episode where she resigned. That's it she quit and nothing happend, no trail, nothing. Thanks TulsaCoker.

John, you missed the two episodes

1. She killed a guy in cold blood
2. Second episode she resigned from the FBI

It's still hard to believe a show of this quality is going to just let it go like that. Perhaps she'll be back later to continue/develop/finalize the story.

I sure hope so. I sort of liked the new 'do and in any case Elle (Lola) had a smokin' body (from what I could gather :)). Her replacement doesn't seem quite up to those standards (but she could grow on me).

=NLK=

I saw the one where she killed that guy, but I missed the episode where she resigned. That's it she quit and nothing happend, no trail, nothing. Thanks TulsaCoker.

Well in that episode Hotchner followed her around and asked her to do a phyic evaluation. It was a pretty good episode for her to go out on. Not sure of the reasons but sometimes actors want off the show to purue other gigs or wanted more money? who knows.

I'm very late to this party...

I'm actually a bigtime LOST fan, and was wondering what all the hoopla was about with them catching and then passing LOST in total viewers. I mean ANOTHER procedural? How good can it be?

Well I've been blown away, caught up with the first season on a 2 day blitz viewing over last weekend, then caught up with season 2. Great show!

Maybe Elle will show up later as a vigilante unsub :-)

RE: Beginning scene with bus - Had anyone else noticed the outside bus number was 539 but when the inside of the bus was being shown, it read as 1330?

Other than that, I thought tonigh't episode was a little too straight-on. Not enough mystery. I knew the teacher had a hand in it in some way. BUT, I still LOVE this show.

Incidently, I read in the entertainment section of The Tennesseean that this show "requires patientce." They state the reason this show is getting successful, is because us, as a viewing audience, is more patient inwaiting for things to occur. Not as much action, as intrigue (maybe?). Anyhow, I thought it was a pretty important point.

nc

(From Marc Berman’s Thursday, Nov. 9, 2006, Programming Insider column at Mediaweek.com )

“…In the 9-10 p.m. battle of ABC’s Lost versus CBS’ booming Criminal Minds, it was another week of shared leadership. Lost was second in the overnights (11.6/17) and total viewers (17.10 million) and first among adults 18-49 (7.0/17), while Criminal Minds was just the opposite with an 11.7/17 in the overnights (#1), 17.54 million viewers (#1) and a second-place 5.1/12 among adults 18-49. As for Lost, considering we now have to wait another three months for an original episode, I wish there would have been some sort of resolution -- anything -- last night. Why we needed another back-story on Kate’s shady past (which revealed nothing new about the character) was beyond me. J.J. -- what’s going on?...”

• Source: Nielsen Media Research data
http://pifeedback.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/63310451/m/97010691

I really enjoy CM, but I wasn't too impressed with the episode last night. I didn't find it nearly as suspenseful as the last few episodes. (I, personally, did find the woman who defused the bombs to be quite attractive though.)

I hope either Elle comes back or maybe they could get Kate from NCIS into the show

I think I was sitting next to A.J. Cook in Vegas this past weekend in Gallaghers at NYNY. If it wasn't her, she has a twin. Wow !!

Bill

“Criminal Minds” / “Lost recent ratings history
(Viewers in millions)

October 4
Lost 18.82
Criminal Minds 15.19

October 11
Lost 16.89
Criminal Minds 16.73

October 18
Lost 16.31
Criminal Minds 16.20

October 25
Lost 17.09
Criminal Minds 16.77

November 1
Criminal Minds 16.74
Lost 16.12

November 8
Criminal Minds 17.54
Lost 17.10

(I, personally, did find the woman who defused the bombs to be quite attractive though.)

Agreed, quite the little hottie.

I've noticed CM tends to trample on racial/sexual stereotypes at will. They do it so much and so well that you almost don't notice. Last night they had an Asian cop with the name of Dennis Jones (or something to that effect), and a female minority bomb tech. I think it's cool.

A so-so episode last night. So we have a new agent on the horizon? She really get into the mix yet.

nc

(From Marc Berman’s Thursday, Nov. 16, 2006, Programming Insider blog at Mediaweek.com )

“…Criminal Minds…won the 9 p.m. hour with 16.56 million viewers and a 4.9/13 among adults 18-49. Comparably, however, Criminal Minds did not benefit without ABC’s Lost in the time period.…”

http://pifeedback.com/eve/?cdra=Y&s=32410241

(From Marc Berman’s Thursday, Nov. 16, 2006, Programming Insider blog at Mediaweek.com )

“…Criminal Minds…won the 9 p.m. hour with 16.56 million viewers and a 4.9/13 among adults 18-49. Comparably, however, Criminal Minds did not benefit without ABC’s Lost in the time period.…”

http://pifeedback.com/eve/?cdra=Y&s=32410241


Glad to see this show isn't leeching any of LOST's audience, but it's keeping up it's same #s.

An excellent episode last nite. Good cooperation finally between FBI & CIA. At least we didn't have polar bears or black clouds.. :)

It was an ok episode. The writing on this show is tremendous, I'll say that. The whole Gideon slowly moving up the terrorist's prayer time to make him think it was night by the time they needed his info was awesome.

I also like how the new agent isn't starting off all tight with the group. She's calling Gideon "Sir". Nice touch.

And is anyone else glad to see Garcia being much more involved with the group this season?

wow, what a bunch of crap! i'm tired of hearing/seeing about 9/11 all over gain. Take it from someone who saw 9/11 up close and personal. (can we say chambers street?) can't we just stop trying to recreate that 9/11 terrorist feeling ion our television shows? the creep who played the terroriost even looked like osama...that sux.

i was very upset after watching this episode. i still like CM very much, i just didn't find this episode very appealing :(

nc

.....And I thought that this was the best and most riveting episode I've seen yet. It stuck in my mind for hours afterwards.
(I did NOT witness 9/11 personally). To each his/her own......

I thought it was a very good episode...but then again, I also didn't think that it had anything at all to do with 9/11.

the creep who played the terroriost even looked like osama...that sux.
Hmm...I don't get it. That would seem to be as unfounded as a person from foreign culture X claiming that Eva Longoria looks just like Jennifer Lopez. The only features that they share in common are their gender and the color of their skin.

I thought it was a very good episode...but then again, I also didn't think that it had anything at all to do with 9/11.


Hmm...I don't get it. That would seem to be as unfounded as a person from foreign culture X claiming that Eva Longoria looks just like Jennifer Lopez. The only features that they share in common are their gender and the color of their skin.
Did you see the dudes eyes? They look like osama's.

For a minute there, I thought that the 11/29 show was "Huff". Bird, sure does have the disturbed teen act down!

It was an ok episode. The writing on this show is tremendous, I'll say that. The whole Gideon slowly moving up the terrorist's prayer time to make him think it was night by the time they needed his info was awesome.

I think this has been done before. Does anyone remember the old Superman TV series from the 50's with George Reeves? There was an episode where the criminal had a plot to be declared legally dead by disappearing for seven years but was really living in a thick concrete bunker. He had a clock locked to Naval Observatory time and Superman had the Naval Observatory slowly advance the time so that he would come out several minutes early and was arrested.

Yep, I remember that episode but I think it would ok to borrow from it now, what 50 years later. I thought this was one of the better episodes but overall this season has not been as good as last, do I miss whats-her-name already? I don't know, the last ep about the prostitutes was just ok for me.

Late to the party, new convert to this show and must say I am loving it. Now I have to go rent the earlier seasons to catch up so I can see the backstories or how they started off together. Only saw a few re-run episodes in over the last few weeks but hooked now.The writing is excellent.

This show keeps getting better! Poor Reid seems to be having some issues with his drug problem. I wonder when he will really snap and the boss get on him about it. Emily seems to really add to the show. At first I hated her, but she adds a heck of a lot more than Morgan does.

Last night's story was a bit upseting however. Again, we are being pummeled by television dramas about war. I see enough war on CNN and in the papers. Can't we have a stirring episode without bringing politics/war into it? Just an opinion...

nc

The show was interesting to me because it was set in Houston and I have to drive through the 5th Ward to get to work every day. Belive me, it is not as bad as they portrayed it ---but I would not go anywhere in town without my " protection". HPD is down over 1,500 police officers due to retirement and normal attrition. I guess they were tired of the stereotypical East LA setting.

Good show and I expect Reid to be called on the carpet soon.


Bill

Last night's story was a bit upseting however. Again, we are being pummeled by television dramas about war. I see enough war on CNN and in the papers. Can't we have a stirring episode without bringing politics/war into it? Just an opinion...

nc
You make it sound like every episode has a political/war theme/plot. It's just one episode and I thought it was very compelling and timely. I also thought it added another dimension to the show by dealing with a character that evoked empathy from the viewer because of the tragic nature of his criminal mind.

Every episode is a "bit upsetting". It wouldn't be such a good show if they weren't.

What does "un sub" stand for? Is this a new term introduced in the show?

Unknown Subject

What does "un sub" stand for? Is this a new term introduced in the show?
unknown subject -
It struck me as a bit pretentious at first, but I'm guessing it's a real term used by the FBI. If it isn't, then it is pretentious.

From Wikipedia:
" * Unsub is a law-enforcement slang acronym for "Unknown Subject Of An Investigation". A less common replacement for "perp" or "suspect". It may

also have come from "unsubstantiated," referring to charges against an individual that have not been proven.

* Unsub (TV series) was the title of a 1989 television series starring David Soul as a forensic investigator.

* The word is used heavily on the CBS drama Criminal Minds, a crime procedural dealing with an elite team of FBI profilers."

You make it sound like every episode has a political/war theme/plot. It's just one episode and I thought it was very compelling and timely.
The "Lessons Learned" episode also dealt with a somewhat political theme. Nevertheless, I'm in agreement with you that I find these stories to be compelling and relevant. I like it when shows tackle issues of 'moral and cultural significance.' Three of the best episodes this season have been ones addressing such issues:
Lessons Learned - prisoner interrogation/torture
Profiler Profiled - sexual abuse
Distress - post traumatic stress disorder

They've never dealt with these in a heavyhanded way though. Rather, the writers have been quite sensitive to the complexities of the issues.

Good episode! I'm not quite sure what to make of Reed. Is he hooked on drugs or not? We're supposed to believe he is (or might be), but never do we see him take anything. His behaviour is maybe because he is getting burned out or just doesnt have confidence in himself anymore. I do love these sub-plots.

How 'bout that Emily :)

nc

Good episode! I'm not quite sure what to make of Reed. Is he hooked on drugs or not? We're supposed to believe he is (or might be), but never do we see him take anything. His behaviour is maybe because he is getting burned out or just doesnt have confidence in himself anymore. I do love these sub-plots.

How 'bout that Emily :)

nc

He was in the bathroom a few eps back and about to take some drugs, when he got interrupted. I have a feeling he has been taking them, he looks strung out.

Last night's episode waas delightfuily disturbing! Great story!

I really don't xcare for Emily at all. Bring the brunette back.

nc

[QUOTE=nashvillecat]Last night's episode waas delightfuily disturbing! Great story!


Didn't it remind anyone of "Hostel"?

Yes, and even "Saw". While I realize the show is fiction, the idea that 63 people have been murdered in one city by a serial killer is a bit of a stretch, it's as if there going for higher and higher body counts, and with this episode there was really no insight to the killer.

With the "Frank" storyline coming back next it looks to be a much better episode, IMO anyway.

I thought this episode was great just like last week's. I think this is one of the best shows on tv. and the blond really helps out as well.

Hmm, I was wondering what happened to this episode until I read a description of it, now I understand why they didn't show it.

46. 3- 1 221 Doubt (originally episode 2-21)

Description:
The team investigates a serial killer who is targeting women at a small midwestern college. The BAU shuts down the campus, creates a detailed profile of the unsub, and arrests a suspect. However, the team members begin to have doubts about themselves when the killings on campus continue.

Only a few hours.... :cool:

...perhaps my imagination, or some setting I've got...

Did anyone else notice the camera work was a bit odd? I actually started getting dizzy as the canmera did allot of moving around and switching between characters and sets -- more so than usual.

curious...

nc

I thought it was a poor episode. I really like the show when I first saw it in the previews. But it seems like every episode is the same and I'm being driven away from the show.

In real life, does a serial killer strike so often? I thought most serial killers waited months between kills. In the show, it's always a couple of days.

Someone told me Gideon is leaving after next weeks episode. Is that true?

Someone told me Gideon is leaving after next weeks episode. Is that true?
Yes, Joe Mantegna is stepping into the role/position Patinkin has been playing.

Yes , he is leaving the show. He said the proverbial " artistic differences " with the writers and producers was the reason. It is a shame. I like everything that he has been in but he doesn't seem to stay in one place very long.

Not sticking with any gig for very long before moving on has been a longstanding pattern of Patinkin’s. I will miss him because he is a terrific actor. Still, I look forward to Joe Mantegna’s coming onboard; he should be a worthy replacement for Mantegna.

I like the show and have found its exploration of dark subject matter to be unusually effective for a TV series. I hope the writers don’t give up on doing that sort of thing after Mantegna takes the reins.

Not sticking with any gig for very long before moving on has been a longstanding pattern of Patinkin’s. I will miss him because he is a terrific actor.


Patinkin is becoming the Ted McGinley of TV dramas--a sure sign your show is about to jump the shark is when he signs on as a main character.

I thought it was a poor episode. I really like the show when I first saw it in the previews. But it seems like every episode is the same and I'm being driven away from the show.

In real life, does a serial killer strike so often? I thought most serial killers waited months between kills. In the show, it's always a couple of days.

I agree 100% with all of your points. I really enjoyed the first season, but the show has been in a slow death spiral ever since. It has turned into a ridiculous, predictable clone of CSI:Miami. Every show is nearly identical, the only things that change from week to week are the details of the crime. The crimes are solved absurdly fast, usually without the "team" even having to check into their hotel rooms. The team members take turns each week providing the key brilliant insight that creates a profile so perfect that the inevitable computer search spits out a single suspect, who turns out to be the unsub. How about throwing in just a bit of reality once in a while? I'm sure hunting a serial killer is grueling work in real life. Potential suspect lists from profiles contain dozens of names, not 2 or 3. The FBI agents spend weeks and weeks interviewing and re-interviewing suspects and witnesses, not half a day. And do all of the investigations have to be all wrapped up in a long weekend? Can we see a case that just hits a dead end and has to be put on a back burner for a few months? I'm sure the real BAU has dozens of active unsolved cases open at any given time. Let's see more of the grunt work the agents have to do back in DC to develop new leads on the open cases. Let's see them actually make a mistake or two, where they follow a lead that doesn't pan out and they are forced to start all over again at square one. In short, stop being so predictable. Give the viewers a bit of credit, not everyone needs or wants the instant gratification of having every case solved in 43 minutes every week. It would be a much more interesting show if the unsub's capture was actually in doubt from week to week, rather than the current boring, predictable show they trot out every week now.

Just remember, if you don't like a show, you can always turn the channel.

Someone told me Gideon is leaving after next weeks episode. Is that true?
Off to find a 'six fingered man' I suppose...:D

Just remember, if you don't like a show, you can always turn the channel.My wife loves the show, so I really can't. :)

My disappointment with the show is the predictability. I first saw the show when it aired after the Super Bowl. I thought it was cool and original. Not just another crime drama. But one with a twist (psychological profiling). But that has become played out quickly.

CSI: LV is basically the same situation. You can only tell the same story so many times. Yet, despite some missteps (like this season's premier), they've been able to maintain my interest with some subtle additions throughout the 8 seasons of the show. I'd hope that Criminal Minds is able to adapt because the concept really is interesting.

I think I'm done. The show's too formulaic for me these days and I really like Mandy Patinkin. We've pretty much already seen everything they're gonna write. Mandy made it riveting, If he's not there, I'm not there.

I love the characters on this show, but I think the writing has gone a little awry. How can Emily and hadge just come back to the team without approval? Isn't this the Feds we're dealing with here? It dos seem lkke the show is in a bit of a flux. When Joe Montegne come on board? I personally think he is an awesome fit for this team. I did appreciate the writers putting a little "home" or "personal" life into it. Mr. Stoic's (name eludes me right now) wife being pissed at him and he struggling with the job and the wife and home stuff - refreshing.

Let's get this show going! Bring on Joe Mantana!

nc

I love this show and have enjoyed it again so far this year.

I agree 100% with all of your points. I really enjoyed the first season, but the show has been in a slow death spiral ever since. It has turned into a ridiculous, predictable clone of CSI:Miami. Every show is nearly identical, the only things that change from week to week are the details of the crime. The crimes are solved absurdly fast, usually without the "team" even having to check into their hotel rooms. The team members take turns each week providing the key brilliant insight that creates a profile so perfect that the inevitable computer search spits out a single suspect, who turns out to be the unsub. How about throwing in just a bit of reality once in a while? I'm sure hunting a serial killer is grueling work in real life. Potential suspect lists from profiles contain dozens of names, not 2 or 3. The FBI agents spend weeks and weeks interviewing and re-interviewing suspects and witnesses, not half a day. And do all of the investigations have to be all wrapped up in a long weekend? Can we see a case that just hits a dead end and has to be put on a back burner for a few months? I'm sure the real BAU has dozens of active unsolved cases open at any given time. Let's see more of the grunt work the agents have to do back in DC to develop new leads on the open cases. Let's see them actually make a mistake or two, where they follow a lead that doesn't pan out and they are forced to start all over again at square one. In short, stop being so predictable. Give the viewers a bit of credit, not everyone needs or wants the instant gratification of having every case solved in 43 minutes every week. It would be a much more interesting show if the unsub's capture was actually in doubt from week to week, rather than the current boring, predictable show they trot out every week now.

There was a show kind of like what you describe. It left the veiwer asking questions every week. Nothing easily handled in one episode. Had suspense. Unfortunately it was cancelled after 5 episodes? That show was called, "Kidnapped". Everybody wants instant gratification nowadays. Their ADD demands it.:D

Anothere stirring epuisode, huh guys? Really like this show and all its characters.

Hey JJ, can ya wear that skirt any tighter? :D

nc

This episode was really the first IMO without Jason Gideon (Mandy Patinkin) and I think they dealing with the loss very both in terms of story and the continuing arc/arcs in the plots. This plot was very good in this episode, and was very entertaining, some crime shows fight to keep me entertained with high techness, but this show has very good acting and writing as this episode showed..... I think this show is one of the best crime dramas on tv right now!!

I saw the new episode least not.....The PQ was dreadful, Faces were half fuzzy and half clear. It would randomly become fuzzy a lot and go away and then come back.

It is the show too cause my friend said the same thing.

I saw the new episode least not.....The PQ was dreadful, Faces were half fuzzy and half clear. It would randomly become fuzzy a lot and go away and then come back.

It is the show too cause my friend said the same thing.

Weird cause I watched it rendered to 720P and it looked great on a 32inch, a little "softer" then say CSI, but still nothing like Studio 60 or Friday Night Lights... Maybe you and your friends feed has been compressed more then mine....

The wifey and I were very sad that Mandy left the show - he was one of the reasons we were attracted to it in the first place! The "write out" was done perfectly - thoughtful and in line with the characters psychology.

Joe Mantegna (aka, Fat Tony :D ) is a terrific actor, so I'm at least going to give it a try as the other characters are also (still) terrific and the writing is generally very good.

We haven't watched this weeks yet - so we're working without Mandy AND no Joe M as of yet?

;11879132'] Joe Mantegna (aka, Fat Tony :D ) is a terrific actor, so I'm at least going to give it a try as the other characters are also (still) terrific and the writing is generally very good.

We haven't watched this weeks yet - so we're working without Mandy AND no Joe M as of yet?

Joe also starred in " Joan of Arcadia" and the forgotten "First Monday". All of these tv characters were on the other side of the law compared to "Fat Tony". :D

My favorite Joe spot, other than the "Simpsons", was the bad bumbling comic character Eddie in "Baby's Day Out" .

Joe also starred in " Joan of Arcadia" and the forgotten "First Monday". All of these tv characters were on the other side of the law compared to "Fat Tony". :D

My favorite Joe spot, other than the "Simpsons", was the bad bumbling comic character Eddie in "Baby's Day Out" .
He cracks me up in Airheads, as the DJ, Ian.

After watching CM last night, I can safely say it is by far my favorite show on TV right now. (Well, maybe second only to Heroes).

Just a few observations about last night's episode...

What is definately missing is Gideon's introspect, cerebral outlook. I mean, the crew on there now is all guns blzaing and thre guys are all testosterone. There isnt enough "thought". Does anyone agree or underestand what I mean by this?

What really pissed me off was having injected those cats. I was very upset by this and was surprised the producers could show such a thing :(

nc

the two villains last night looked like they came straight out of this German thriller from 1997

http://us.imdb.com/title/tt0119167/

two harmless looking young guys wearing gloves con their way into a home then proceed to terrorize and kill the family.

I haven't watched the show at all this season, and the CBS website doesn't have recaps. Anybody care to let me know how they wrote off Gideon's character? Did they kill him off? Thanks.

He is upset and wandering the country trying to get his soul back. (off screen)

wow what an ending for Garcia, the story was strange enough.. any more comments?

wow what an ending for Garcia, the story was strange enough.. any more comments?

That was wild! I knew he was up to no good...but shooting her point blank BLAM!

So do you think he had a personal axe to grind with her? He obviously targeted her specifically, knowing she couldn't resist helping him with this PC. But why all the subterfuge? If he wanted her dead, why not just shoot her and not leave evidence?

wow what an ending for Garcia, the story was strange enough.. any more comments?

Yea, dramatic, but we all know next week she'll hover between life and death, you'll get all the emotional flashbacks and dialog from the regulars, after which we'll be told she managed to survive.

As a previous poster said, you just KNEW there was something going on; the guy LOOKED like a sociopath.

I like CM a lot, like the characters, but when one of the stars gets shot you just KNOW they're not going anywhere (with very few exceptions). Sort of takes the edge off, you know?


=NLK=

I think Joe Montegna is doing a pretty good job. I knew he would. I think there's tons of stuff the writers could drum up for him.

What do you guys think of JM?

nc

I've allways been a Joe Montegna fan. He's doing a great job so far in fitting into this show.

I'm ticked off about Garcia though. In a show this dark her charactor adds some much needed comic relief at times. This is one show that just might kill her off. CM makes a point of being anti "warm and fuzzy". Unlike Grey's Anatomy, I doubt Garcia will have a dream about her Mom and be back next week.

I think Joe Montegna is doing a pretty good job. I knew he would. I think there's tons of stuff the writers could drum up for him.

What do you guys think of JM?

nc

I think he's doing no less than the job I expected from him.

JM is a very experienced and accomplished actor, though underappreciated because he keeps such a low profile. Just goes to show you how important it is to employ people who can actually ACT. Mandy was fine but Joe's at least his equal.

And no, I'm not JM's agent. :)

=NLK=

Kind of strange if she survives the shot. Looked like it was point blank to the chest, but this is Hollywood..

JM is a very experienced and accomplished actor, though underappreciated because he keeps such a low profile. Just goes to show you how important it is to employ people who can actually ACT. Mandy was fine but Joe's at least his equal.

=NLK=

Mandy never knew what he wanted to do. He dabbled in musicals, broadway, films, tv, and music. He seems to get bored rather easily. He did give hints during the past that he found his character and the overall mood of the show to be depressing. I believe that his acting in CM suffered as his character became more rigid as the seasons went on. I thouroughly enjoy Joe.

CM makes a point of being anti "warm and fuzzy".

I have to disagree with you there. In every single episode, the team displays the uncanny ability to discover the unsubs' identity just in the nick of time to save the final victim. So even though they show grotesque violence and murder throughout the show, they always leave you with a "warm and fuzzy" happy ending.

I have to disagree with you there. In every single episode, the team displays the uncanny ability to discover the unsubs' identity just in the nick of time to save the final victim. So even though they show grotesque violence and murder throughout the show, they always leave you with a "warm and fuzzy" happy ending.
The end of this week’s episode was “warm and fuzzy”? Yikes! If having one of the show’s principal characters brutally gunned down in front of her apartment by her deranged date was “warm and fuzzy, what is “dark”?

The end of this week’s episode was “warm and fuzzy”? Yikes! If having one of the show’s principal characters brutally gunned down in front of her apartment by her deranged date was “warm and fuzzy, what is “dark”?

I think he means they usually save more people than they lose...and often they have a musical montage that projects feelings of closure and well being. The Halloween "Coming Home" montage with Daughtry being an example.

I think this show needs it, give the dark nature of the cases. I don't want every episode ending in a downer.

I think Joe Montegna is doing a pretty good job. I knew he would. I think there's tons of stuff the writers could drum up for him.

What do you guys think of JM?

nc

I'm actually turning around on this show, and it's because of Mantegna. There was no real reason for the existence of Gideon's character. He just didn't seem to fulfill any special role. And he was boring. Thus, I didn't really like the show.

Mantegna's character is interesting, though that may be because they are keeping us in the dark about him. I'm beginning to really like the show now.

how did he like going thru life with a first name like "Mandy?".. Good choice for replacement, very mysterious man..

great episode so far tonight.

Ok, I missed the first half of tonight's episode (11/21). I thought Garcia was shot in the chest? How come she's walking around at the end like nothing happened? What did I miss? Was she wearing a giant piece of jewelry that deflected the bullet?

Ok, I missed the first half of tonight's episode (11/21). I thought Garcia was shot in the chest? How come she's walking around at the end like nothing happened? What did I miss? Was she wearing a giant piece of jewelry that deflected the bullet?

in and out of the hospital in 5? days (IIRC) following surgery .. bullet missed by an inch for killing her or something like that.

Ok, I missed the first half of tonight's episode (11/21). I thought Garcia was shot in the chest? How come she's walking around at the end like nothing happened? What did I miss? Was she wearing a giant piece of jewelry that deflected the bullet?
wow, and I was just thinking that this was a tremendous episode! I never even thought that Garcia was so quick to mend :(

nc

Great episode last night. I really thought that ****** would be the one to f that guy up. JM is doing an OK job --- but I miss Mandy. He always seemed " on the dark side " and added a lot to the show. My wife and I do not miss this program.


Bill

Excellent episode, Garcia must have had great medical coverage..Never thought suspect was a cop..Was the head of Internal Affairs the same guy who plays Grissoms boss on CSI?

Excellent episode, Garcia must have had great medical coverage..Never thought suspect was a cop..Was the head of Internal Affairs the same guy who plays Grissoms boss on CSI?

And - Garcia may have met her soulmate. Any idea if we'll be seeing more of him, or was it a one-off?

Ok, guys, I'm lost now. What's the deal with CM? Since Joe M. got on the show, I thought it's been rocking. Last night, I was greatly disappointed. I didn't understand why they seemed to change this show so drastically. Wasbn't it going well? And I thouht Garcia was under investigation by the Dept? She got cleared of that? ...I musta missed something.

nc

I thought the episode was written to emphasize the unsub's POV and see the BAU as an outsider. Without A Trace did this last year. They had a higher profile guest star than normal, so they put him to good use. Garcia was cleared after she saved the supervisor guy from being killed by the unsub last week.

Ok, guys, I'm lost now. What's the deal with CM? Since Joe M. got on the show, I thought it's been rocking. Last night, I was greatly disappointed. I didn't understand why they seemed to change this show so drastically. Wasbn't it going well? And I thouht Garcia was under investigation by the Dept? She got cleared of that? ...I musta missed something.

nc

As the other poster mentioned this seemed like a one shot deal to emphasize Malcolm in the Middle's guest appearance. They purposely kept the vicitm info away from us as well as their profile so we wouldn't know until the end why he was killing (although by then it was easy to figure out).

Garcia had one encryted file that was not allowed, but it was only their personal information. She was protecting it so it couldn't get hacked like it did a few years ago.

I doubt they are changing the format of the show...don't panic :-)

Last night's episode was pretty interesting, even if it wasn't entirely believable. CBS obviously still has a few "new" episodes of some shows socked away. :D CSI:NY and tonight's CSI are supposed to be "new" ones also. :) :) :)

damn, I cant believe this thread is dead, yet alone no one is talking about the season finale. I deff did not expect what happened, to happen. For those of us that did watch, who do u think got it?

The pregnant agent.

Noooooooo !! Not JJ !!!Thats the best eye candy that they have !!

The pregnant agent.

My thought as well...her character is pretty useless.

Given the quality (or lack thereof) of the writing on some of these shows I expect either that it was a civilian who happened to be getting into his black SUV at the same time as the agents OR whichever agent was in the exploding car will not be QUITE dead, will be attended to by a doctor who just HAPPENED to be passing by and will be rushed to the California version of St. Vincent's to be patched up.

I like this show very much, especially since Joe M. came on board, but I harbor no illusions as to the integrity of its scripts.

I guess the Hours before the Finale aired, the exec Prod said one of the team members will be severely injured.

I'm thinking it was Morgan who was in the exploding SUV. They just focused too much on him with the whole him being the "next in line" for a certain position.

Yea, Wasn't he the only one that they actually showed walking toward the car and hearing the ignition. I hope the team stays together.

Seems all the CBS Crime Finales this week had something BIG happening. This Fall should be good.

Yea, Wasn't he the only one that they actually showed walking toward the car and hearing the ignition. I hope the team stays together.

Seems all the CBS Crime Finales this week had something BIG happening. This Fall should be good.

Or after the Writers Strike that CBS put all its LEO show writers in the same room together.

CM: "Okay...were going for a blown up car for the 'hanger"

CSI: "NO! That's what we were going for...guess we go for assassination in the car."

NCIS: "NO!" That's what we were going for...guess we do it in a building instead."

CSI-M: "NO! That's what we were going for...guess we do it out in the open instead."

CSI-NY: "NO! That's what we were going for...guess we do everything but pull the trigger."

:D

Well, I liked how they shaked everything up for the most part. Not a big fan of CSI M or NY either.

I suspect it's Morgan. As someone before said, they focused on him too much and that way they can bring in the blond brit girl. Maybe she can get a smile out of Mr. Personality! My wife and I rewound and slo-mo'd the final scenes and the suv and street scene makes led me to my conclusion.

Seems all the CBS Crime Finales this week had something BIG happening. This Fall should be good.

That seems to be the note that everyone passed around. FOX has been killing people off and writing cast members out with ludicrous finale twists as well.

I'm surprised CBS didn't shoot the kid on Two and a Half Men for shock value. :D

I'm surprised CBS didn't shoot the kid on Two and a Half Men for shock value. :D

Now, that's funny right there...I don't care who you are. ;)

Can anyone see a loose connection with this show and scooby-do?:D

My wife and I rewound and slo-mo'd the final scenes and the suv and street scene makes led me to my conclusion.

Did the same thing. ;). Based on the surroundings, I ruled out JJ and Dr. Reid. Based on the truck, it can't be Prentiss (her license plate was in a different position). But I think it could be any of the others.

That said, I don't expect a TV show to be too accurate with the exploding car (i.e., it's possible that Prentiss died, even though it obviously wasn't her truck.)

And what kind of budget does the BAU have? They take a private plane to NY, then each of the agents gets their own black SUV?

That said, I don't expect a TV show to be too accurate with the exploding car (i.e., it's possible that Prentiss died, even though it obviously wasn't her truck.)

there's no guarantee that whoever was in there is dead either!

I'm saying JJ if only for the reason that when they restart filming she'll be very very pregnant or about to give birth and she probably wants to send some time with the baby.

That and the fact she was the only one who was off to a happy relationship. That's far too cheery for Criminal Minds. They all have to be miserable and damaged. I think smiling is fatal in their job.

I think it was mogan too,when i paused the dvr i could see his brown shirt sleeve as he closed the door then the suv blew up. I really hope they didnt kill anyone off as i like all the actors in this show.

Anybody think that JJ's boyfriend looks like kd Lang???

just an observation if it is Morgan than it brings the token black character quota down. CSI killed off Gary Dourdan,Candi Alexander is off CSI Miami. I will admit all the cliffhangers are fun. :)

The cliff hanger for CM was almost identical to that of ER. In both cases, an exploding vehicle and we're not supposed to know which cast member was involved. It would seem that the folks who write for television are really running out of original ideas.

And just when did it become mandatory to have these cliff hangers at the end of every season?

And just when did it become mandatory to have these cliff hangers at the end of every season?When JR Ewing got shot. That's when they found out that a summer full of just this kind of water-cooler speculation is worth more than any advertising they can buy.

Since the FBI in CM World seems to have a fleet of black SUVs in every city, you kind of gotta assume that local agents are assigned one, too. Which means the person in the car could very well be the British girl. Which gives Shemar Moore's character some drama to contend with in the fall.. should he take the job or not?

On the other hand, Shemar's star is rising and the show may be holding him back from doing other projects.

If they were going to kill off JJ, they wouldn't have invented the boyfriend story line (http://community.tvguide.com/blog-entry/TV-Show-Blog/Tv-Previews/Jr-Criminal-Minds/800038586) to cover AJ's real pregnancy that's really not showing yet. Or they would have brought Louisiana Boy on board a whole lot sooner so we'd be emotionally invested in their relationship.

Though I wouldn't mind seeing Paget Brewster's character go away. Loved the actress in "Huff" but not so much here. Maybe it's because she did more underwear scenes in "Huff." And I'm really tired of the bangs.

I think I can rule out at least two charactors.

I re-watched the episode on DVR and slo-mo'ed thru the final scenes.

The car that blew up was a Chevy with duel rear doors and a licence plate on the rear bumper.

Reed is clearly seen getting into a GMC truck.

Prentice gets into a Chevy but it has a single hatch type rear door with the plates in the middle of the rear door right under the Chevy Bow tie design.

So barring a continuity screw up neither of them are dead.

My wife has the theory that the exploding car is actually in the road stopped at a red light and none of the main charactors had started their cars and had time to drive away so nobody is dead.

Though I wouldn't mind seeing Paget Brewster's character go away. Loved the actress in "Huff" but not so much here. Maybe it's because she did more underwear scenes in "Huff." And I'm really tired of the bangs.

That's funny, I was thinking the exact same thing while reading these posts yesterday, I liked her in "Huff", but wouldn't miss her one bit in this role. Also agree about the bangs...

Something else I've noticed this season, while I like Joe Mantegna, he really hasn't seemed to have much impact, certainly not as dynamic a force as Patinkin was.

Anybody think that JJ's boyfriend looks like kd Lang???

Now that you mention it, yes. Although not as clone like as the young Donny and Marie Osmond.

Something else I've noticed this season, while I like Joe Mantegna, he really hasn't seemed to have much impact, certainly not as dynamic a force as Patinkin was.

I was thinking that but it's probably because Patinkin was the lead when it started (by a slim margin) and this time around that role went to next in line - Hotch.

Could be why they are killing someone. So they can give Mantegna a bigger presence.

I was thinking that but it's probably because Patinkin was the lead when it started (by a slim margin) and this time around that role went to next in line - Hotch.

Could be why they are killing someone. So they can give Mantegna a bigger presence.
Actually, if Hotch was the one that bites the dust I think it would be good for the show. Not only is he way too dull, his angst over job vs family is not really working for me. I think they have at least one too many people in the cast. Removing Hotch would open up the lead position for Rossi, and allow more screen time for the rest of them.

I think the most fascinating character on the show is Reed. The episode(s) where he and JJ were held captive, and the recent one about the kid in Texas, were excellent TV. The actress who plays JJ was very good in those earlier eps as well, but not so good over all throughout the season.

And what kind of budget does the BAU have? They take a private plane to NY, then each of the agents gets their own black SUV?

What's funnier is the fact that it's always the same SUV regardless of what city they're in. If you look closely at past episodes, the license plate on the SUV is always the same (since I'm sure they're using the same prop vehicle on the set for each shoot). So they fly to CA and get the same SUV as when they fly to NY.

And they've always only had one or two SUVs per show until this one--which is silly since there was no other reason for each of them to have their own except to set up the cliffhanger.

Since the FBI in CM World seems to have a fleet of black SUVs in every city, you kind of gotta assume that local agents are assigned one, too. Which means the person in the car could very well be the British girl. Which gives Shemar Moore's character some drama to contend with in the fall.. should he take the job or not?

Yep - it set up the possibility of a spin-off: Criminal Minds NY. :rolleyes:

I'm still guessing that it's JJ. Rumor has it that none of the main characters is dead, but someone is seriously hurt. They could kill of the boyfriend and the baby to pave the way for her to return later in the next season.

Yep - it set up the possibility of a spin-off: Criminal Minds NY. :rolleyes:

I'm still guessing that it's JJ. Rumor has it that none of the main characters is dead, but someone is seriously hurt. They could kill of the boyfriend and the baby to pave the way for her to return later in the next season.

My guess is she'll have a miscarriage and her romance with the cajun man will end.

My guess is she'll have a miscarriage and her romance with the cajun man will end.

Anything is possible, but that would be in extremely poor taste, as she is actually pregnant. :(

Art

Anything is possible, but that would be in extremely poor taste, as she is actually pregnant. :(

Art

LOL I didn't realize that the actress herself was pregnant. Oops. I guess the question is how far along and will she have delivered by the time they start filming again.

But yes, a bit creepy of a plotline in that context.

I believe this show is one of the best shows on TV right now! All very good characters with equal time... this means allot (unlike CSI).

I forgot about this. I felt a bit cheated that they didn't kill anyone. It reminded me of those old black and white Saturday morning serials when they would show a cliffhanger, only to change it slightly in the next chapter.

I thought the ending was a bit cheesy as well with the burning ambulance and then Morgan rising into frame like he's in a Michael Bay movie.

I liked the rest of it though. A lot more exciting and a nice change from the usual carnage and deviancy that seems to be lurking around every corner.

I'm with you VisionOn, how many series premiers does that make this week that none of the regulars didn't bite the dust???

I forgot about this. I felt a bit cheated that they didn't kill anyone. It reminded me of those old black and white Saturday morning serials when they would show a cliffhanger, only to change it slightly in the next chapter.

They killed the blond agent from NY that Hotchner had the hots for.

They killed the blond agent from NY that Hotchner had the hots for.

Yeah but nobody cared about her!

I'm with you VisionOn, how many series premiers does that make this week that none of the regulars didn't bite the dust???

Only ER did far as I know.

Regarding Criminal Minds I think it would of been too much if there was another cast change at least this soon.

Only ER did far as I know.

Regarding Criminal Minds I think it would of been too much if there was another cast change at least this soon.

Probably agree but then why insult the audience by making it seem as if someone significant died (rhetorical question, I know)? I mean, if you were TOLD "someone got it" then you'd KNOW it was one of the non-regulars.

Given that, I thought the script had a nice twist. The fact that the bomb seemed to have been detonated just to maim was a very interesting clue. Had I not seen a preview with the paramedic doing some shooting I never would have guessed he was a terrorist. The moment when the agents in the hospital realized what was going on was very well done (sort of made me think of other "deja vu" moments like "Narrow Margin" or "Witness for the Prosecution").

I have to complain about the premier. I generally like the show. It's not a great show. But it's usually not a bad show. This past episode was just downright bad.

* A cliffhanger (who's hurt?) that was resolved with a cop-out answer (no one you care about).

* The unsub was blindingly obvious from the beginning. As soon as the Good Samaritan showed up, it was obvious that he was the bad guy. And why he didn't even attempt kill Morgan in the subway is just beyond belief. He's a terrorist! Act like one.

* The second unsub was also blindingly obvious. Let's see, they cut-off the crime scene from one direction, but not the other. Then they just let some random ambulance come from the other side and take people from the scene?

* The bomb wasn't nearly big enough to do a lot of damage to the hospital. If they were really trying to hurt a Mysterious Important Patient in the hospital, the bomb would have to be humongous. This was just a car bomb.

* The most glaring error of all. Garcia jams the cell phone towers so that the unsub can't set off the bomb. Then she guides Morgan to a clear area where he can detonate the bomb. So how does she talk to Morgan? By cell phone!

I think Reid should stay in the office..He is so out of place in the field.. He even holds his gun holster the wrong way, like a little kid..

I think Reid should stay in the office..He is so out of place in the field.. He even holds his gun holster the wrong way, like a little kid..

I agree, I also noticed he carries a wheelgun (revolver) which is usually what inexperienced policemen use until qualified on an automatic. I think he only carries because he is required too.

The biggest reasons for carrying an auto are magazine capacity and less muzzle jump if you want a big bore. Revolvers are very reliable. They are far less likely to jam or fail. If you are not going to use your sidearm very often, then you don't necessarily need an auto. I think Reid would be very happy if he never had to fire his weapon.

give him a cap gun..

The biggest reasons for carrying an auto are magazine capacity and less muzzle jump if you want a big bore. Revolvers are very reliable. They are far less likely to jam or fail. If you are not going to use your sidearm very often, then you don't necessarily need an auto. I think Reid would be very happy if he never had to fire his weapon.
My guess would be, given that Reid is an extremely logical person, is why he uses a revolver, the instances of jamming/misfire are next to nil, it would make the most sense to him.

That may be all well and good, but most large agencies require *everyone* to carry the same service weapon, if for nothing else than it's easier to purchase one type and only one type of ammo for the entire agency (excluding swat/tactical/specialty). One of the other reasons is in an extended firefight (think Bank of America hold-up in L.A. several years back), field officers may need to borrow ammo from fellow officers if they've depleted their own supply, or if they have to cover another injured officer. Doesn't do any good when two officers side by side have different weapons, different loading mechanisms, and different ammo. Not to mention having to use someone else's weapon in a firefight--you want all officers to be equally trained on the same weapon.

Although I agree Reid would logically choose the revolver, no way it would ever be approved as his primary weapon for field use.

I agree, I also noticed he carries a wheelgun (revolver) which is usually what inexperienced policemen use until qualified on an automatic. I think he only carries because he is required too.

I'm pretty sure Reid and his ability with a weapon was addressed in the first season episode "L.D.S.K." and something about profilers not being required to carry a gun.

I distinctly remember a scene where he kills someone for the first time to save another team member but he is unsure if he can make the shot.

My DVR was getting too full so I've had to sacrifice Criminal Minds to the Rerun Gods. I'll catch up then.

anyone catch last nites episode? Jason Alexander was brilliant as a crazy killer playing mind games with the BAU.

Aside from the season premier, this season has been pretty good. I like that they're going away from the standard model of the serial killer who strikes every day whenever BAU gets the location. But I'm also watching season 1 reruns from A&E. I liked the person Prentiss replaced (Elle) better than Prentiss, who seems to be kind of generic. Definitely like Rossi better than Gideon, though.

PS, I agree that Alexander was good in his role and it was a good episode.

I thought his performance could have been the worst I have ever seen on television. Totally miscast in that roll, It ruined what was a cool episode. Both my wife and I thought he was brutal.

I thought his performance could have been the worst I have ever seen on television. Totally miscast in that roll, It ruined what was a cool episode. Both my wife and I thought he was brutal.

He was over the top. But he was supposed to be over the top.

I thought Alexander was very good as well, it's a side of his craft I've never seen before.

Unfortunately, I couldn't get the image of "George in a bad wig" out of my mind.

Coooo-Stan-ZA!!!

The way Jason was talking and his mannerisms seemed very familiar to me. It took me several hours to figure it out.

Jason Alexander was channeling Kiefer Sutherland from the movie "Dark City" not that there's anything wrong with that.

Ok, really great ep...but that ENDING?!?! WTF? Are we really supposed to know who that is in the mask?

I hope that's not really the end for Hotch...he's my favorite character on the show.

Ok, really great ep...but that ENDING?!?! WTF? Are we really supposed to know who that is in the mask?I think it was C. Thomas Howell the actor. IIRC, remember he played a serial murderer unsub that they got locked up a while back and he escaped vowing to come after the BAU team. Or something like that. But I may be wrong.

I think it was C. Thomas Howell the actor. IIRC, remember he played a serial murderer unsub that they got locked up a while back and he escaped vowing to come after the BAU team. Or something like that. But I may be wrong.

I think you're right, I caught his name in the opening credits as well. He's the guy who had the team thinking he was a survivor of a serial killer attack when in reality he was the killer. I didn't get the part about "taking the deal" though?

Another fine performance by Garret Dillahunt, the actor of 1000 characters.

Excellent ending to one of my favorite shows.. Didn't portray the Canadian police in such a good way.. Somebody leaving a shotgun unattended, SWAT team open firing on the brother in the bunker..

Another fine performance by Garret Dillahunt, the actor of 1000 characters.Was that the quadraplegic guy? I remembered him as one of the gay co-owners of the diner in A Minute With Stan Hooper (Norm MacDonald).

Ok, really great ep...but that ENDING?!?! WTF? Are we really supposed to know who that is in the mask?

I hope that's not really the end for Hotch...he's my favorite character on the show.

He was the serial killer some years back who made a deal with the officer on his trail to stop tracking him in exchange for stopping the killings. On that officers death bed he exposed his secret to Hotchner. Once the officer died, the serial killings began again.

In the process of tracking him down, the killer made the same offer to Hotchner to stop the killings in exchange for the manhunt to stop. Hotchner turned him down. The killer immediately boarded a bus after the call and killed all the passengers. They finally figured out the killer was one of the supposed early victims. But by the time they figured it out he was gone.

Hence the "You should have taken the deal." ending.

Was that the quadraplegic guy? I remembered him as one of the gay co-owners of the diner in A Minute With Stan Hooper (Norm MacDonald).

Yes, that was him, he's been in so many roles playing such diverse characters, just in the last year, that I'll bet many folks don't even realize it's the same actor.

He was the serial killer some years back who made a deal with the officer on his trail to stop tracking him in exchange for stopping the killings. On that officers death bed he exposed his secret to Hotchner. Once the officer died, the serial killings began again.

In the process of tracking him down, the killer made the same offer to Hotchner to stop the killings in exchange for the manhunt to stop. Hotchner turned him down. The killer immediately boarded a bus after the call and killed all the passengers. They finally figured out the killer was one of the supposed early victims. But by the time they figured it out he was gone.

Hence the "You should have taken the deal." ending.

Thanks, "the deal" now makes sense to me.:)

Hence the "You should have taken the deal." ending.

I remember that ep now...thanks!

I think the actor who played the quadraplegic was John Henry on T:SCC

I think the actor who played the quadraplegic was John Henry on T:SCC
Yes, that was who was the quadrapelic. Of course, the man in the mask was C. Thomas Howell. His name was in the credits but I didn't remember seeing him in the episode. I wasn't sure if that final scene was a dream or was real. If it is real, I don't know how Hotch could survive.

.....I wasn't sure if that final scene was a dream or was real. If it is real, I don't know how Hotch could survive.

Well, has his contract been renewed for next season? ;)

Yes, that was who was the quadrapelic. Of course, the man in the mask was C. Thomas Howell. His name was in the credits but I didn't remember seeing him in the episode. I wasn't sure if that final scene was a dream or was real. If it is real, I don't know how Hotch could survive.

I remember now...it was the Boston Reaper.

Sheesh. Here's hoping he's back next year.

The episode was probably based on this:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Pickton

Therefore the Canadian conection....

Caught up on my episodes due to the WS.. good luck to Morgan as the new team leader.. spooky eppy with the eyes..

I'm not sure where they are going with the Morgan as team leader thing. Rossi would have been a more natural choice, since he is supposedly the star of the show. Note that Hotch still is in the center of the group photo during the title sequence.

Seems to me I read something about a CM spinoff, this manager thing may be a vehicle for Morgan to move to the new show.

The way I read it, Rossi isn't there to be the boss, he had been retired but came back because he wanted to solve an old case, I don't think he wants to be the boss.