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NCIS: Los Angeles - Leipei - Review: "It's All Greek to Me"

12 Nov 2014

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This week’s “NCIS: Los Angeles” focused on a Greek terrorist who was killed by a remote-controlled drone at a hotel in Los Angeles. That’s after the man snitched on his organization and was placed into witness protection in the U.S. So the NCIS team works to find out who killed the man and why. In the process, they uncover and try to stop a drone operation targeted at a U.S. oil refinery.

I must say, being Greek-American, I enjoyed all the Greek elements to the episode: the Greek restaurant with Greek music playing inside, Callen referring to moussaka (a Greek casserole made with eggplant, spiced meat and bechamel sauce), and one of the Greek suspects asking Sam where he could get a picture with Yanni. (That made me laugh out loud.) The Greek accents, unfortunately, were not very authentic, but they had moments of believability. Even the title of the episode was Greek. “Leipei” means missing, which could have applied to the dead terrorist, who had been lost in witness protection, or the large drone the team tries to track down. I figured executive producer John Peter Kousakis was likely the consultant on anything Greek. So the writing team had a good expert at their fingertips.

Overall, though it wasn’t extremely meaty, I thought this episode had some fun interactions between the different sets of partners and ended with a great unexpected scene between Nell and Hetty. (That was the one scene that held some real dramatic weight.)

Eric, Nell and Hetty

I loved the scene where Eric encouraged Nell to come forward and talk about her expertise in Ops. These two were on the same wavelength without using hardly any words, except a few “ums” and “hashtags.” Even if no one else could understand their nerd talk (or “Ewok routine”as Granger amusingly called it), they understood what the other was saying.

I was happy to see a little more of Eric and Nell in this episode. Eric still hasn’t had enough screen time but I enjoyed the scene between him and Deeks when they were left alone in the gun range. Deeks starts telling Eric his problems but can’t seem to muster enough patience to return the favor when Eric talks. Poor Eric! No one listens to him. Deeks tried, but he sure didn’t last long before he bailed, leaving Eric to tell his story to himself.

Nell, on the other hand, had a larger role this week. Because of her drone knowledge, she accompanied Sam and Callen to the crime scene to check out the initial small drone that killed the victim. Since she understands so much about drones, she is able to track this one to where it took off – a warehouse in Long Beach where Deeks and Kensi find a dead body and later realize a larger, more dangerous drone was created. Then Nell’s expertise really comes in really handy when she has to guide Callen through controlling the drone from a tablet. She tells him how to take it off autopilot, drop the drone and turn it. And when the device can’t be controlled any longer and is heading straight toward Callen, she knows its blast radius. All this information saves Callen (and the public who could have been injured). And her efforts don’t go unnoticed with Hetty.

My favorite scene of the episode was the final scene between Nell and Hetty. The scene was poignant and dramatic and emotional. As Hetty praises Nell for her contributions, she offers her a special whiskey made by Pappy Van Winkle created from wheat instead of rye. At first it seems like just a friendly drink as a token of appreciation for Nell’s work. But Hetty has a more specific purpose for the whiskey. (I believe she planned it that way all along.) Hetty makes the observation that Nell has never tried to emulate the agents who have gone before her or copied the way they do things. When she questions if Nell still wants to do covert work, Nell is adamant: She wants to be a covert agent more than anything. But she is not willing to do it the way someone else does. She has to follow her own path.

Part of the reason the scene was so good is because Nell reveals her vulnerabilities. She is clearly comparing herself to the other agents and sees that she can’t do things the way they can. She knows she’s never going to be like them and you can hear the emotion and fear in her wavering voice as she acknowledges this. She is battling herself and her own fears, which is easily relatable. But at the same time, in another sense she is also very sure of herself and knows exactly who she is. This is obvious when she says she has to do things her way, even if that means never making it. Only someone who has a strong sense of self and is confident in who they are can say something like this. So I found her dueling emotions of confidence and fear very captivating.

Hetty, of course, believes in Nell like she always has, and she wants to encourage her. Hetty appreciates Nell for who she is and believes that Nell can make a great field agent. But she wants Nell to see that for herself. That’s when Hetty jumps in with her whiskey analogy. She tells Nell it was amazing what happened when the Van Winkles made whiskey their own way. The words were purposeful and Nell gets choked up as she takes in Hetty’s meaning. Nell may not be the same type of field agent as the others, but she can forge her own path and add her own unique traits to the job. Hetty knew exactly what she needed to hear. That support and encouragement from her mentor makes all the difference to Nell.

Honestly, this conversation was also good for me to hear as a viewer. There have been many times I’ve felt like there is no way Nell can be out in the field. She just doesn’t hold up to the others in their skills and confidence and knowledge. Even earlier in this episode I noticed Nell didn’t seem to be eager to get out in the field with her drone knowledge. Eric had to talk her into it. But this conversation opened my eyes a little. Nell’s fears were getting in her way. And I believe it’s true that Nell could bring different strengths to the job that could be invaluable. She may not look like the same type of field agent as the others, but that doesn’t mean she wouldn’t be a good agent. Of course, just because the words are spoken doesn't make it true, either. The verdict is still out on this one for me. In the past I have not liked Nell as a field agent - she's weaker than the rest of the covert team. But the conversation made me more open to giving it a chance.

Sam and Callen

I really loved Sam and Callen’s mini theme woven throughout the episode of Sam having to become an expert in everything. Apparently Sam doesn’t like to lose or be average at anything, which was amusing. He doesn’t even like it when instructors outscore him in practice shooting. So he practiced his “weak-hand shooting” exercises three times a week and later casually squeezed an object in his hand to strengthen his dexterity.

Callen was funny as he teased Sam about this need to become proficient in everything – from strange breathing techniques to magic classes to bird things. Left-hand shooting was “just the latest stop on the Sam Hanna world tour of skill acquisition,” according to Callen. But Sam said all of the skills he learned benefited him or pertained to his job. And he had a pretty good explanation for everything. The breathing techniques benefited him in a gunfight, being handcuffed in a box under water was part of tactical training for stressful situations, and the falconry obsession was because “raptors are just cool.” I love learning more about characters like Sam through conversations like these.

By the end of the episode, Sam turns the tables on his partner and facetiously taunts Callen at his own game. When asking Callen how cool it was to fly the drone, Sam acts like he has looked into it and believes the two of them should buy one. But as Callen begins to think he’s serious, the entertaining smirk and mischievous glint in Sam’s eyes point to the fact that he’s throwing the joke right back at his partner.

These two bring out the humor in each other but they also push each other’s buttons. When Sam goes after a potential suspect and ends up duking it out in a car wash, Callen heckles him by asking what took so long to get just one guy. But Sam is not amused. He tells Callen he is “not in the mood” and walks away upset at Callen’s brazenness and questioning of his skills. At that, Callen has to laugh. These two are like brothers who get on each other’s nerves. They look out for each other and joke around, but sometimes they also want to punch each other.

Deeks and Kensi

These partners also continue to joke around, make fun of each other, harass each other and enjoy their friendship. They begin in the gun range as Deeks compares himself to a gunslinger, born in the Wild West. Then Kensi makes fun of him for having a dog with anxiety issues. I have to say, I felt the transition leading into that conversation was weird – and the talk itself was awkward. But at least the characters acknowledged that. The fact that everyone wanted to get out of there made it kind of amusing, along with Deeks rambling about what, to him, was a very serious accusation. I loved how Sam asked Deeks if he was finished hijacking their conversation. And I enjoyed Deeks’ comment to himself about Kensi driving him crazy.

Later the two partners compare notes on the best parts of Long Beach. For Kensi, Snoop Dogg is on the list. (Who knew she was a fan?) And for Deeks, it’s all about the skate park. Kensi doesn’t really understand that passion but Deeks wants her to try it and enjoy it. I love that he wanted to share the things he enjoys with her. The fact that he wanted to include her in his favorite activities and do them together was really cute. When Kensi actually agrees to trust him and try it out, Deeks can’t help but feel like she is messing with him.

Other Thoughts

- I loved how the episode began – the viewpoint of going through different laser boxes with scenes of Los Angeles moving in the background, almost like a video game. I didn’t know exactly what the boxes were at first. But later you see them again and realize it’s the view from the drone as it heads to its destination. It was visually appealing.

- I also like how the episode ended with the rest of the team being treated to “libations,” but everyone else doesn’t get the Van Winkle whiskey like Nell. They get the Makers brand, emphasizing that the special whiskey was just for Nell.

- It amuses me that Deeks has to be a part of the conversation. When they were all talking about the Greek terrorist organization in Ops, he added the obvious – that all of the members were Greek – just so he wouldn’t be left out.

- Sam shot the guy at the apartment a little too quickly for my liking. The man hadn’t pulled a gun on Sam yet. In the real world, this action would have been questioned. (Even though I’m sure the guy would have shot Sam if he had the chance.)

- I like seeing that Hetty and Granger had a short conversation addressing the mole in their operation. Granger acknowledged that no one on the team seems to be leaking information but they still haven’t found the mole. I was happy to see this topic is still on the back burner and I expect to see this addressed more in future episodes.

- I was impressed with Kensi’s car knowledge when her car stopped working and she immediately knew it was likely because the axle was busted. Go Kensi!



What did you think of "Leipei?" Which scene was your favorite? Do you think Nell will make a good field agent? Join our discussion in the comments below.


About the Author - Tonya Papanikolas
Tonya Papanikolas is a entertainment journalist who loves covering her favorite TV shows, including "NCIS: Los Angeles." (She's a big fan of Kensi and Deeks!) She spent more than 10 years as a broadcast news anchor/reporter and now does everything from hosting to writing. She writes reviews and feature articles for SpoilerTV on a ton of great shows.

26 comments:

  1. I miss the special relationship between Hetty and Callen. I am not really a fan of Nell and I find her annoying. I don't know why but I just do.

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  2. Hi Tonya, great review as always. I liked very much this episode, for me was the episode of the last tree weeks. I really liked the way as the producers used the Greek culture in this episode, i don't know very much about the culture of Greece, but from you wrote up there it seems that they used very well the Greek elements.I loved that they did an episode that speak about Portuguese culture, after all it was the culture of my country and Daniela Ruah. Maybe one day that will happen!
    I really liked the scenes of Nell in this episode, were very good, and the scenes of Densi too. Kensi is the smartest person in the world she knows everytjhing, like said one day, Kensi is the WIKIPEDIA. Do you see the last promo of the next episode? I'm so anxious to know more about the Kensi past.
    This is all I have to say for now, Byye.

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  3. Love your review! Here are my thoughts on Nell:

    The relationship between Hetty and Nell seems contrived to me, and frankly, I don't like the idea of her becoming an agent. I don't feel her character has what it takes, nor does it seem an appropriate job for her personality and skills. I realize the reason Hetty had that whole conversation with her was because Nell's different, and that was supposed to be meaningful, but it just didn't ring true to me.

    The part where Nell said she had to do things her way felt too self-serving and precious—like she's a mysterious, unique creature unlike any we've seen before. She doesn't have the right to do things "her way" until she learns how to do them the way her badass predecessors have successfully done for years. You can't break rules you never acknowledge or follow. That's not rebellious, that's just dangerous (and pretty stupid if you ask me).

    The thing that intrigued me about Nell when her character was introduced was her off-the-charts IQ, which has never really been explored. There are countless interesting ways to play that up within the context of the show. I really don't understand why the writers/producers are so obsessed with her character becoming something else.

    Obviously, the plan is for Nell to eventually take over for Hetty. Hetty has had such vast experience—her badassery is legendary—so I wonder if the writers are trying to make Nell a superhero overnight. The way to get that awesome in real life is to have years of experience. The way to get that awesome on TV during the lifetime of a series is to have some hefty backstory, and I just don't see how they would have the time or inclination to develop that when there's so much fascinating material to explore with the rest of the characters. Hell, Kensi or Callen would make better Hettys.

    Meh, I don't dislike Nell, but her character is becoming less interesting and more annoying as this arc continues. I think the writers want us to care more about her, but this whole thing is making me care less. More Eric, I say. (Actually, more Densi, I say. I say that a lot.)

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  4. I agree 110%. This show needs more Densi and even more Eric and I too feel the whole Nell thing is contrived.

    Why would these senior NCIS LA agents think Nell could ever take Hetty's place? She is way too young and inexperienced to be running other agents.

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  5. I have to agree with Caz. When the show started out, it was Callen and Hetty who had the heart to heart chats, I miss that. To me, Nell is not a strong enough character to be pushed to the forefront of these episodes. I've always liked her as a supporting character and that is where she is best suited. When the episodes center on Callen, Sam, Kensi, and Deeks, that is where the shows strength is. I did really enjoy the banter between the partners, not as big a fan of the Hetty/Nell scene.

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  6. I agree with everything you said. This was the first NCIS LA episode this season that I didn't bother to watch live (although I didn't watch Castle), and a lot of that was because of the Nell spoilers (although disappointment with previous episodes contributed mightily to my disinterest). I just don't get why the show keeps pushing a character beyond what she brings to the show. Nell works fine for me in Ops and doing exposition, but even last season when they were forced to push her out in the field in Kensi's absence, it just didn't work for me. It's like taking a mediocre role player in basketball, and hoping they'll turn out to be your LeBron. Good luck with that.
    Meanwhile the lack of balance among what used to be the Core Four is very frustrating. We hardly get anything for Deeks, and even that is often just comic relief (not all of which is terribly well written). I never thought I'd say this, but I'm getting sick of Sam and Callen. I never thought the show worked in season one as a buddy show; it wasn't til Deeks came along and we got some balance between Densi on one side and the bromance on the other that I really enjoyed the show. Now, even though I'm no longer a hard core Densi shipper, I find their status very confusing. Either let them be a couple or let them move on, but for goodness sake, be clear about it.
    I just hope Nell turns out to be the mole. At least that would explain why they keep building her up so much - so they can eventually just knock her down.
    Rant over. For now.

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  7. I couldn't agree with you more. As much as I love Densi they have lost some spark and its not the case of they got together so I don't care anymore. Its the constant back and forth that is driving me away. If they put them together or broke them up I could move on but right not its not working. I hate the are they or aren't they going on right now. Its time to decide if they are together or not and go ion one direction.

    Nell needs to go. She is being over used and I am resenting that. The 4 main characters are what the show should be about. I even like Eric.

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  8. Tonya Papanikolas13 November 2014 at 07:24

    It's so interesting to hear you say that because I also haven't been a big fan of Nell (but I haven't said that because I didn't want to be offputting in my reviews). I hate to say that her character and the way she's played just isn't as interesting as the others. Glad I'm not alone. I know what you mean about missing that Hetty/Callen relationship.

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  9. Tonya Papanikolas13 November 2014 at 07:30

    Thanks, Catarina. Glad to see you back here. So did you get a chance to watch the other episodes online? It sounds like you did. I agree this was probably the best episode of the last few weeks. The episodes haven't been too emotional since the one with the Deeks and Kensi scene where she was crying. I hope we get more Densi scenes like that soon. I, too, am looking forward to next week's episode with "Kensi's secret revealed." That sounds intriguing! Yeah, they used the Greek elements pretty well in this episode. That would be really neat if they did one with Portuguese characters. Maybe Daniela could speak Portuguese in the episode. That would be fantastic! You made me laugh when you said Kensi is the Wikipedia! Haha. She does seem to know a lot about everything! That's great. I'm going to remember that. I can't wait for next week! Thanks for commenting.

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  10. Tonya Papanikolas13 November 2014 at 07:54

    I love hearing your thoughts on Nell. I have felt exactly like you when it comes to her being an agent. I have thought numerous times in the past there's no way she would be a good agent. Perhaps I was too easily swayed by this episode into thinking her differences might work for her. I think I was just happy they addressed the fact that she is unlike any other field agent and her skills aren't really suited to covert work. I guess the conversation opened my mind more. But in truth I probably haven't fully decided if I think she'll be good or not. I am beginning to believe that she won't. I can in theory agree with Hetty's message but that doesn't make it true in person.

    After hearing your thoughts (and others', too), I actually agree with a lot of what your'e saying. I hadn't thought of it as the scene pointing to Nell being so mysterious and unique that we've never seen anything like her before. And I don't really know how she would be a field agent "her way" when there's a certain "badassery" way field operatives have to work. There's a reason that a certain type fills that job. You have to have certain skills that Nell doesn't have. So it's kind of unusual that Hetty believes she can do something that might not actually match her skills and personality. That's where the contrived part comes in, I think.

    I have actually never wanted Nell to be a field agent (the times she's out in the field just simply feel weaker to me) but I guess in this episode I resigned myself to the fact that they want to go there. But you're right to question why they're going there since it really doesn't fit with her character.

    I must say (and I hate to say it, which is why I haven't put it in a review), the rest of the characters definitely offer more interesting material than Nell. And I think Callen would be a much better Hetty replacement, too. (Kensi could do it, too.) Unfortunately her character has also been getting more annoying to me, too. I really wish they'd play Eric and Densi up more than what they're doing with Nell. But I WAS happy that Nell showed some of her vulnerabilities in the scene.

    I think that's a big part of the reason I liked the scene - it was the only one in the last little while that really had some emotional connections and dramatic character interactions that meant something significant. I love the humor in all the episodes but I also want a little more character drama, too. Unfortunately the episodes are becoming lighter and lighter on this aspect and I feel like that is hurting the show a little. You can take it or leave it when there's not a lot of significant things happening. And to me the scene showed Hetty and Nell's connection and played on her fears. Plus, I liked Hetty's whiskey analogy. Ha ha.



    Well, I guess I still think Nell is a really strange choice for agent. Thanks for swaying me! :) If they go there, I will give it a chance. But I can't promise I'll like it.


    Love your awesome comments and insight!!!

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  11. Tonya Papanikolas13 November 2014 at 08:04

    Thanks for the nice words on the review! I also have been getting kind of bored with the episodes - mostly because there just aren't enough good emotional scenes between the characters. (That's part of why I liked the Nell/Hetty scene.) But I also must admit that Nell is my least favorite character after Granger. Her scenes usually just feel weaker to me (although I liked her in the scene this week because she was so vulnerable). Nonetheless, I agree that her scenes generally aren't as good as the other characters and therefore unless she somehow gets a better story that works better (which I don't think will happen because she just isn't gritty enough), she shouldn't be promoted over the other characters. I really can't figure out why they're giving her more screen time while they give Eric less. That is a mistake.


    On another topic, that really WAS cute when Deeks said Kensi drives him crazy. It was adorable how he said it. I can't stand that thought that they're a couple and we never got to see it happen. I still find it so weird that no one knows what's going on with them for sure. Why are they making things so nebulous? It's strange and annoying. It seems to me like the show has pulled back on the relationship this season and just furthered the friendship. But who knows. You're right - they would be making a big mistake if the show played the relationship like it's already happened and we missed it! They better not do that!!!!


    Thanks for all your awesome comments!

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  12. Tonya Papanikolas13 November 2014 at 08:07

    I know - I've almost forgotten all those chats it's been so long! And that's a bad thing because that relationship is great! I agree that she's not a strong enough character to be pushed to such a prominent position and is better suited as a supporting character. I really thought I was the only one who felt this way but I see from all the comments many do. I did like the Hetty/Nell scene because of its emotional weight, but I agree with you about the rest. :) Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

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  13. Tonya Papanikolas13 November 2014 at 08:17

    I like how you say of Nell they're "pushing her beyond what she brings to the show." I agree. It also didn't work for me last season when they put her out in the field. So I guess I can't expect that to get better. It probably really is like taking a mediocre basketball player and hoping they'll turn into LeBron. Ha ha. So funny yet true.


    I know what you mean about the Core Four often now just being comic relief. It is frustrating. I hate to admit that I didn't watch the show in season one because it didn't interest me that much. But later when Deeks came along and, like you say, Densi on one side balanced the bromance on the other, it was fun! So I really wish they would feature some more significant scenes with the pairs - and yes, especially Densi. Their status is definitely confusing and I wish the powers that be would move forward on clearing things up. But they are not doing that, which is annoying. They just continue to be unclear, which is such a cop-out on forwarding the story in whatever way they choose to do it.


    I love your idea on Nell being the mole. That would be a fun twist. But I definitely don't think that will happen. I think it would be out of character and Granger mentioned that no one on the team was leaking information. Oh, well.


    Valid rant. Thanks for sharing!

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  14. Hi Tonya. Thanks for your review--I think your reviews are the best from all the reviews that I read. And, as someone else said, sometimes they are better than the episode. I am not Greek but I am from the neighborhood so I too liked the Greek references (and I love moussaka!)


    I am also so glad to read all the comments since I agree so much with lots of it and am relieved I am not the only one thinking it. Beginning with Nell--I never liked her character and usually fast forward her parts which I find boring or annoying. But I especially dislike the attempts of the producers to literally shove her character down the throats of viewers as a field agent (let alone as being groomed [as the Callen character hinted at in the Xmas episode of last year] as a possible "replacement" of Hetty(!) An inexperience agent, no field record or knowledge, no life experience, no agency working connections, no command ability, becoming the head of a highly professional elite unit? Really people? Are you out of your bloopers?!)


    That is why, when I read in the press releases that this is going to be another 'Nell' episode I knew I will not tune in, nor even watch later until I read the reviews and see how much of a Nell there is there. I know from reading other boards that others had the same feelings and I think the ratings (about which volumes can be said but not now) show some of it. Those attempts to have Nell in the field last season, in my opinion, looked, to put it delicately, unbelievable which is why, by the way, as was said in this discussion before, I think the writers put that conversation between her and Hetty at the end. I think they heard the incredulous comments from fans and decided to address it for which I give them kudos. And by the way Tonya, you do not have to apologize for liking the scene, as you said, at least it had some depth and feelings. I must say, it was the first time I saw quality acting for the Nell characters who until that point I felt was acted in a one dimensional fashion. So, I hope the producers listen to Nell's own words and put her back in Ops and while they are there give the extra time to an actor whose talents are severely underutilized and whose character is fun to watch Eric Beal



    Wow, I did not mean this comment to go on for so long, so one last thought. Like many, many others, I started watching this show when the character of Deeks came aboard. Even though the character of Kensi is the one I like most in the show, I could not watch the first season as the 'bromance' and characters of Callen and Sam do absolutely nothing for me. But when Deeks came along I felt the show got a zing stemming directly from the relation of Deeks and Kensi. I also think the show is at its best when all 4 of them work together. I am not a shipper and I don't care if Densi ship or not, I think the main thing about these two is how they interact which is utterly fun and, when they are aloud to by the writers, quite moving to watch. That is why I agree with others that something seems off this season, first there is not enough of them (obviously as they have to push the Nell character or make everyone dead sure that the "real stars" of the show as every DVD covers screams are Callen and Sam). Second, some of their scenes (thankfully though not most of them) are forced. I think the reason is that the producers have not made up their mind about how they want this partnership to proceed; or they do not have the guts to proceed in what seems to be the natural direction for this relationship. When you don't know what you want from a characters or afraid to proceed in where the characters naturally leads you your writing for it would become awkward, or forced. But this is a conversation for another time.


    Sorry to have taken so much space but obviously, I needed to vent.

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  15. I have a bad feeling that they are trying to faze out Eric so they can put Nell with Callen. That crazy rumor a month or so ago about Callen being put with a well liked character everyone assumed was going to be Nell. ( Or Talia which will be even worse)

    The whole Densi situation is just frustrating. If this season 6 stuff had lead to what happened in season 5 I would get it but I cannot for the life of me figure out how everything is going backwards.

    It looks like the producers have decided they don't want them to get together. Some people are fine with it going slow but I am not one of those people. There is slow and then there is messing with the minds of your fan base. This just seems calculated.

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  16. I totally agree with you about the episodes becoming lighter and lighter, and I can understand why you liked the Hetty/Nell scene for its grounding effect at the end of the episode. I enjoy the heavier, more contemplative side. The characters are what make it interesting and are why, I think, fans are so invested in the show. The action and humor are huge, but when I look back on my favorite episodes, they're the more serious ones with deeper character development and emotion. See, this is why I liked last season so much, and yet most longtime fans seem to have hated it. Maybe I've got poor taste, but I'm stickin' to my guns.

    As far as Nell goes, I really want to like her, but it definitely get the feeling the writers are trying to force her down our throats. It would be hard for them to backpedal now, but hasn't anyone in the writers' room ever considered the simple fact that she's just too young? Experience is everything, and she hasn't had the time to become much of anything yet. To be totally honest, I just don't think the series has time for this arc. I hope it doesn't mean one of the main characters is leaving, because that's the only thing I can think of for wanting to move her character to the forefront. Seriously, though, what about Eric?

    More importantly, what about Densi? I've got a one track mind. :) The next episode looks promising, but I try not to get my hopes up when it comes to these two. I just enjoy seeing the pretty people being pretty. I wish I could say I wasn't a shallow person. I cannot.

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  17. Tonya Papanikolas15 November 2014 at 07:00

    They better not faze out Eric. That would make me really mad! He is really underutilized. Especially if they put Nell with Callen. That would be the dumbest thing ever. I just cannot picture those two together. Yikes!


    Yes, Densi does seem to be moving backwards. I could see how it seems the producers don't want them together. I know a lot of people who feel like they've done that and don't want it moving slow! You are not alone. To me it seems more like they can't or won't decide what they want. But either way they are messing with the minds of their fan base. I hate it!


    That's funny that you find the positive side first and then negative. I'm not sure which way it works for me. A little of both. Funny about how you say you wouldn't be a good reviewer because you can't do the positive side of things. Ha ha. That made me smile. I have struggled myself with how much negative to include. I don't want to be too negative and seem like I'm harping on something but then sometimes that negative reaction is what others are feeling, too, so you might as well voice it. There can be a fine line. :) Walking the balance is tricky sometimes.


    No need to worry about your negative comments reflecting on your love for the show. It's those of us that love the show that have the most bones to pick, right? It's just because we care. :) But I know what you mean about being bored this season. There have definitely been some boring, cut-and-dry, not real interesting episodes so far. I'm hoping they improve and I look forward to next week with some secret information being revealed about Kensi. Interesting. I hope it's a tease that actually pays off. Oh, and I've enjoyed Sam this season more, too!

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  18. Tonya Papanikolas15 November 2014 at 07:07

    I think part of last season was really good and part was really frustrating. But it did seem like we had more serious episodes, which was nice. I don't think you have bad taste at all and you should stick to those guns!


    Wouldn't it be interesting to sit in on a writing session? I would really like to be a fly on the wall! Or a fly with a voice would be even better - to tell them where they go wrong. He he he. We are brash, aren't we? The experience factor is important, though - and so is interest. And I'm not sure I can get real interested in this as a main story arc.


    Yeah - what about Eric? And Densi??? One track minds are good. :) I am also excited for the next episode - it does look promising. But you probably have the right attitude with not getting your hopes up too high. And what's wrong with enjoying pretty people being pretty? Nothing, in my book! ;)


    Oh, yes, I was definitely still referring to Nell when I said she was getting annoying. Sorry about that confusion. Nell - not Kensi. Definitely Nell.

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  19. Than you Tonya for this very detailed and encouraging response! I really like this column and its responses!


    In the mean time, the sneak peeks for the coming episode seems (underline seems) to indicate more Kensi and Deeks along with perhaps some deeper scenes all around. Dare we dream? I shall and hope to not have any rude awakening:))

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  20. Tonya..I enjoyed reading your entertaining & jam packed with details review as well as all the interesting comments from the fans that it generated.

    I also must confess...that I did not really enjoy watching the early episodes in S1....until Deeks came on board the show.

    Just like another poster said.soon as Deeks signed on..the zing & fun factor..really ramped up!
    Deeks character & his instant on screen chemistry with Kensi...was like a shot of much needed adrenaline..for both the show and my eyes & ears!

    It was actually kinda painful..noticing that there was no.. on screen chemistry between Kensi and either Dom's or Nate's character.

    The fact that Densi has been mostly been M.I.A. so far this season....has only helped to remind me...how important Deeks & Kensi's characters and their "thing".....means to my enjoyment of the show.

    I'm also on board with you & other fans..who want to see more of Eric's character.

    Barrett Foa..has great comedic skills....and he has put them on display..every so often...when he's given the chance to do so...which is all too rarely.

    Barrett's acting talents are being squandered while Eric's character is being shoved even more into the background this season .

    As for that upcoming romance with Callen...I have no idea who they will pair him up with.

    If it's Nell..it will feel like it came out of nowhere...but if its Talia...it will be even a bigger leap of faith for fans.

    All I know is..whoever Callen is romantically involved with...it will most likely..come at the expense of Densi & thier fans.

    There is no way... a TV cop show that can hardly find the time to focus on the one already built up relationship on the show...suddenly finding the time to show two office romances taking place.

    Like yourself & many of the other posters... I really hope that the writers & producers will wake up ..and will give us more Densi..and actual human emotions & character development this season..before we all start losing hope of it ever happening.

    In that vein and to do my small part..I tweeted to one of the show's producers ...Peter earlier tonight..after I saw a tweet he put out..talking about the show's ratings this season on their new day & time....being "respectable"

    ( I'm thinking... respectable..is a nice way of saying.,..their ok! )

    I've been meaning to write to him for a few weeks now...to express my frustrations with their handling of Densi etc.....but I didn't know how to get my point across in only 140 characters

    .But once I saw him mention the ratings..I felt this was the opening I needed!
    .Anyway...here's what Mr. Kousakis wrote..and my response to his tweet.

    John Peter Kousakis‏@jpkouz·Nov 15 California, US
    "#NCISLA fans. We’re doing well on #Mondayat10pmCBS Respectable ratings on competitive night. Thank you for hanging with us! #BestFansEVER"

    Owen O’Leary‏@
    "@jpkouz Ratings would b higher if you would only focus more on Densi,character development/ human emotions & less on gun fights & explosions!"

    It was tough to get what I wanted to say to him.. in only 140 characters…the main thing was...I didn’t want to come off as rude….but I did want to get my main points & complaints about the show so far this season…in my tweet to him.

    I have no illusions .none whatsoever.... that what I wrote to him will have any effect on what he thinks works for the show..if he were to bother to read my tweet..


    But since he publicly acknowledged that the ratings for the show are only “respectable”..I figured. what the heck...it was worth a shot!
    .

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  21. Tonya Papanikolas17 November 2014 at 23:31

    Thanks, dby! I'm really looking forward to tonight's episode for the reasons you mention. We will dare to hope and dream! Ha ha. But yes, in those dreams we hope to not be rudely awakened. I guess we'll see soon. :)

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  22. Tonya Papanikolas17 November 2014 at 23:41

    Thanks, Big O. I've enjoyed these discussions. I am hoping for a little "zing" tonight with Kensi and hopefully Deeks. I hope the teasers about Kensi's "secret" are really interesting and pay off! Their characters, their "thing," and their chemistry definitely make the show enjoyable!


    Barrett Foa really does have great comedic skills! It's so true his acting talents are being squandered. I hate seeing Eric's character being shoved into the background as you mention.

    I also don't know who they're going to put Callen with. I wonder if it's someone who has just been a guest star on past episodes - like Kim Raver perhaps. We'll see. But I hope his relationship doesn't push aside Densi's. If done right I think they could both flourish. But I hope they do them right. :)

    Now on to your tweet... Wow! Good for you for writing your true thoughts to John Peter Kousakis. That's tough because you want to say it as a fan and not be rude. It was gutsy. So way to go. It is definitely hard to get it all in there in a tweet but you did it. You never know how much they listen but at the same time they have to notice fan response. They have to. So I think you probably made him take notice of your concerns. It's worth alerting them to things we want! Nice job!

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  23. Tonya...writing my little tweet to..Mr. Kousakis was easy..compared to when I asked my date to our high school prom.

    That took guts..because back in HS..I was so shy.. I would turn beet red..if a girl so much as sneezed in my general direction!! :)

    ( While asking her to the prom ..my bottom lip was trembling so much..it was a miracle..that I didn't pull a muscle in my face! lol).

    Anyway...thanks for the kind comments about my tweet to him.

    After I tweeted it out..I thought.perhaps I should have written.."..Ratings .might be better..": ..intstead of.." Ratings would be better" but..it's what I truly believe..so..IIm happy I went with.."...would be better!"

    I have no idea if he read it or not..but he hasn't banned me from seeing his twitter feed..so I guess everything is ok between he & I! :

    I've enjoyed reading all your comments to my many ramblings about the show & what ails it...but..I know you got better things to do..so..I'm keeping this one..short and sweet! :)

    Speaking of Callen & his upcoming romance..I saw that.Mr. Kousakis had tweeted this out...

    "G Callen reveals secrets w/Gunfire & Romance.MerryXmasEp.airs 12/15/14"

    Sigh!! There Mr. K, goes again..with the "Gunfire" thing!

    I share your frustrations at the under use of Barrett Foa's comedic talents & his characters... measly story lines most episodes.



    While watching him on Monday's show..I found myself..actually feeling sorry for Foa.


    He's a real pro..and I was impressed..looking at his face.. how he makes Eric... look like he's really concerned about the case & all..


    But I can't help but think..how bored he must feel sometimes as an actor on the show..knowing that most of the time we see Eric..he's usually just seen in Ops..typing furiously away on his Ipad thingy.


    lol I wonder .. .if Foa..ever types imaginary.insults to the writers on his magical tablet.......for giving him & his character..so little to say and do most of the time on the show?

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  24. Tonya Papanikolas20 November 2014 at 09:12

    Love the high school prom memories and comparison! I think both took guts. :)


    I hadn't seen that tweet about revealing secrets through "Gunfire and romance." Oh my gosh that makes me laugh and cry at the same time. Man!! 'Sigh' is right! Oh, dear. Same ol, same old again. ;) Thanks for sharing.


    I've thought the same thing about Barrett Foa. He's got to be bored sometimes on the show! Wouldn't that be funny to see what he was really typing away on his tablet? Love the thought!

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  25. I believe Mr Kousakis..is the one of the architects of this season's "same ol same ol' approach and vibe.to the episodes of this season.


    That man... sure loves his gunfires and explosions!
    I bet going out on a date with him.. would be interesting..



    Maybe Instead of asking a woman if she wants to come up to his place to see his etchings......he asks them if they want to come by and see his grenade collection!! :)


    ( "... and this here green little beauty.. I picked up in Season 3.. now....I found this one...after S4 wrapped!" )


    As for poor Barrett...I can only hope..that he gets paid very well.. for pretending to type stuff on that tablet of his.


    His acting talents are going to waste on that show..same goes for Chris...ECO..and DR.
    They all can act...and they have shown us just how very talented they are over the years..when they are given the opportunity.



    When this show is finally cancelled or calls it a wrap........the biggest unsolved crime & mystery will be...who was responsible..for giving all of these very talented people.....so little of real substance do or say ...for the vast majority of the time we saw them on the show...

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