Category Archives: Next On NCISLA

Next… on NCISLA! Black Wind (6×14) Preview by Gayle (@DensiLand)

Next graphicBlack Wind (6×14) Preview

by Gayle (@DensiLand)

Written by: Joe Sachs; Directed by: Dennis Smith

Official CBS press release – “Black Wind” – Callen and Sam go undercover as food truck owners in Mexico to find the source of an anthrax poisoning before it’s used to create a bioweapon, on NCIS: LOS ANGELES, Monday, Feb. 2 (10:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.

Darkness looms as a “Black Wind” approaches Los Angeles. While it could be the result of an accidental burnt offering, something far more ominous is apt to be the likely culprit.

On the topic of burnt, the evolving bromance of Callen and Sam might end up in flames as they find themselves undercover in a food truck. (One can only wonder how that ride compares to Sam’s beloved Challenger.) It’s easy to presume this will be a case of “too many cooks in the kitchen”. As the banter and nicknames are sure to be in high supply, with a main ingredient of anthrax in the mix, the guys will be forced to make sure their operation doesn’t overflow in lethal proportions.

The mind of writer Joe Sachs takes the team from over the top in Mexico to another visit to the LA underground. Mr. Sachs is known for taking us to interesting locations that hold significant meaning to the case, such as the Vietnamese clothing factory in “The Dragon and the Fairy” (3×18), the rail lines of “The Livelong Day” (5×7), and the previous subterranean pursuit in “Purity” (4×20). It will be intriguing to see what has captured his attention this season! Our team is further secure under the keen eyes of series-long director Dennis Smith.

The current operation has the team facing yet another chemically-based threat. Based on less than comforting confrontations of the past, let’s hope everyone has appropriately prepared. Remember Deeks’ issue with the smallpox vaccine in “Touch of Death” (3×21)? Let’s hope he’s overcome his denied fear of needles for this necessary inoculation!

Chasing down suspects across the border, how will the team yet again keep our nation safe Next… on NCISLA?

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Next… on NCISLA! In the Line of Duty (6×13) Preview by Gayle (@DensiLand)

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In the Line of Duty (6×13) Preview

by Gayle (@DensiLand)

Written by: Tim Clemente; Directed by: Karen Gaviola

Official CBS press release – “In The Line Of Duty” – After U.S. Ambassador Nancy Kelly narrowly escapes a terrorist attack at the U.S. consulate in Tunisia, Callen and Sam are sent on a secret, dangerous mission to obtain key evidence from the crime scene. Upon their return, the team seeks Kelly’s help to provide missing information, on NCIS: LOS ANGELES, Monday, Jan. 19 (9:59-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Julie Chen, host of THE TALK, guest stars as U.S. Ambassador Nancy Kelly.

Welcome to the second half of Season 6! Can you believe we’ve reached the midpoint already? With this show time passes effortlessly with the compelling mix of mystery, action, and I dare say, tiny bits of romance. So what might the powers-that-be have planned for our favorite team and viewers this week? It’s a tough guess based on the brief teasers, but let’s give it a try.

It seems OSP might have to present a more formal, all-business environment once their protectee is revealed as a U.S. Ambassador. Those holding the position of Ambassador, like many other appointed government officials, are known for “serving at the pleasure of the President”. (The team likely mirrors that situation with regard to Hetty and Granger. Don’t cross them!) So when it comes to the term “duty”, Ambassadors and agents alike have a keen understanding of their significant commitment.

Always on the move, this week’s operation takes Callen and Hanna to Tunisia, a small country wedged between Algeria and Libya at the northern tip of Africa. What might they discover there to shed light on the case? What might the Ambassador have done or said to prompt the attack? Is she hiding something? Does this point to government secrets, personal illegal or unethical actions, or something else entirely? Has U.S. policy provoked backlash? The possibilities are simply too numerous to consider.

At some point do the guys find themselves repelling into a compound? (The writers and producers always find a way to keep us on the edge of our seats – even without the customary “booms”!) Via pen, keyboard, or physical demonstration, the action is sure to be on point from Tim Clemente, a regular consultant on many fast-paced, criminally-focused shows with first-hand experience in stunt performance! Also back on set as director is Karen Gaviola, who also gifted us with such memorable episodes as “Merry Evasion” and “Overwatch”.

Of course this wouldn’t be our “family” without a little levity, which this week is tasked to Team Densi. Speaking of little, the clues and evidence suggest a search for something akin to a “needle in a haystack”, at least based on Kensi and Deeks’ considerable (& comedic) magnifying glasses. [This harkens back to “Paper Soldiers” (4×13) when a squinting Kensi results in Deeks’ mention of “granny glasses”!] All joking aside, NCISLA again introduces us to next-generation technology: 3D evidence printers that bring the crime scene to the gym and the ability to see “evidence smaller than the naked eye can detect”. While it’s typically Neric hoarding the cool gadgets, with these accessories, what might Kensi and Deeks “spy with their little eye”?

Unsurprisingly their appearance triggers a cartoon (excuse me, animated series) reference from the ill-contained inner-child of Deeks. It’s no wonder the detective has an affinity for the humorous Magoo, who regularly finds himself in problematic situations, refuses to admit the gravity of those situations, and shares many commonalities with his canine companion! And might the animation topic lead to a nearly-inevitable mention of Scooby-Doo?

Whether it be the protection of one or many, abroad or at home, how might the team complete their duties as keepers of the peace Next… on NCISLA?

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Next… on NCISLA! Spiral (6×12) Preview by Gayle (@DensiLand)

Next graphicSpiral (6×12) Preview

by Gayle (@DensiLand)

Written by Dave Kalstein; Directed by Larry Teng

Official CBS press release – “Spiral” – While Callen is undercover in the mail room of an office building to investigate an arms dealer, it is taken over by terrorists and Callen becomes a hostage. When the team arrives to help, they discover the entire building is wired with explosives, on NCIS: LOS ANGELES, Monday, Jan. 5 (9:59-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.

Happy New Year and welcome to 2015! If the team resolved to put themselves is less dangerous situations, then based on the promo, there’s one resolution already busted! Speaking of busted, that may very well be the diagnosis for Deeks’ butt after Kensi yet again effortlessly and literally manhandles him onto the mat. It seems some things never change between these two, even after their post-”Humbug” boldness. (Although there is a possible question as to the state of their ‘ship here since these two episodes were filmed in the reverse order of airing. Yet, we have strong faith in writers’ commitment to continuity and producers’ strategic planning.)

Zen Kens? The Wonder Woman who commonly battles her own demons internally, while regularly (& violently) expressing her frustrations externally seems to be trying a new tactic: meditation. Unlikely to stem from a voluntary effort, such as a New Year’s resolution, Bad Ass Blye confirms as much. Medically mandated? “Adrenal fatigue”? It’s a wonder the entire team doesn’t suffer from this malady! So what prompted this diagnosis? Remedies to this affliction include better nutrition (looks like all that junk food finally took its toll), improved lifestyle (turning down the techno & club outings), and dealing with negative emotions or stressful situations (with her past and occupation, good luck with that). Series writer Dave Kalstein first introduced us to the Filipino martial art of Sayoc; could Kensi’s shift reflect a glimpse into Kalstein’s own personal practice of neurofeedback?

As usual, stress is central to the team’s day. A mundane undercover with Callen posing as “the mailroom guy” has him investigating the boss, a presumed supplier to a weapons cartel. Yet, it’s not this criminal that serves as the operational cornerstone when gunfire erupts. Shots not from a nail gun, but rather a semi-automatic! Immediately discarded is the team’s original design for the case. Rapidly the op goes sideways as a construction team implements its plan to build a dastardly scheme. The investments firm is held captive resulting in Joelle’s Callen finding himself in an entirely different type of “securities” situation.

With this being Kalstein’s first script of the season teamed with regular “partner-in-crime (production)” director Larry Teng, it’s no surprise a few members of the team are in jeopardy. At least one expected explosive achieves its goal; Kensi engages in close-quarters combat; Callen is held hostage (along with Deeks & Kensi at some point); and the daring detective applies his now-common climbing skills with an unconventional approach to the op – dangling from a high rise! The episode is aptly titled as things “spiral” out of control! What are the criminals’ goals and how will the team find creative solutions to their mounting opposition?

How will the team resolve to keep the country  – & themselves – safe in 2015? Next… on NCISLA!

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Next… on NCISLA! Humbug (6×11) Preview by Gayle (@DensiLand)

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Humbug (6×11) Preview

by Gayle (@DensiLand)

Written by Kyle Harimoto & Andrew Bartels; Directed by Tony Wharmby

Official CBS press release – “Humbug” – The team investigates a burglary at a cyber-security company, but Callen must steer clear of the crime scene after Hetty reveals his girlfriend, Joelle, is one of the lead witnesses. Also, the team discusses their personal holiday travel plans, on NCIS: LOS ANGELES, Monday, Dec. 15 (9:59-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.

It’s the Christmas episode! The excitement feels like child-like anticipation in observing a bevy of holiday goodies! With a promo stuffed like a Christmas stocking (curiously released prior to the previous episode), oh where to begin? The title seems as good as any!

It wouldn’t be a day in the life of our NCIS team without some mean-spirited mayhem. Yet, is that what has Operations Manager Hetty, who seems to have been bitten by the holiday bug, emphatically declaring someone a “Grinch”? (Does anyone else immediately picture Granger?) Speaking of, how is the Assistant Director presumably recovering from his most recent near-death experience?

And on the topic of a near-death experience, what appears to have caught Eric off-guard this week (somewhat like last week’s non-mistletoe-induced cheek smooch from his beloved elfish partner, Nell? Maybe that’s what sparked this week’s sparks!) Anyway, our MIT-trained Tech Analyst is sure to show that overloaded circuit board who’s boss!

In this character-driven show, the personal lives of our federally-employed family are of prime interest; so the topic of their non-work-related travel plans has lit a warm fire in many fans’ imaginations. Might this holiday better reflect the story of Noah and his Arc with the team departing two by two? Neric can easily be considered. Will Jallen/Calelle’s (a.k.a. Callen & Joelle) ‘ship survive this case? Most obvious (& highly anticipated) is Densi. And what a sight Hetty and Granger might be! Or could the current case go sideways, yet again wrecking their seasonal escapes? (I’m looking at you Tahoe!)

While Valentine’s Day is still two months away, it seems like Cupid may be Santa’s new helper in regard to the usually solitary G. Callen. Yet all indicators point to the fact Callen’s personal life has significantly evolved over the course of the year. Has the spirit of the season provoked the dashing team leader to “lead” his lady along to a musical interlude? It looks like Callen might owe the Hannas an extra gift under the tree for the introduction to Joelle!

Back to the case, how might Joelle be involved? Will this create a challenge for Callen to separate his personal life & professional responsibilities? On that note, does Joelle yet know Callen’s real job or does she still believe he’s in finance? If not, could her role in this investigation force him to admit the truth? In this situation Callen might discover himself skating on thin ice. Along with his teammates. Speaking of…

Densi finds themselves on a different kind of “frozen lake”! Could this location prompt the partners to revisit the parable that wholly defines their “thing”? (And it’s no surprise to see an extra-jovial ECO likely showboating his hockey skills. Apparently Deeks has mastered all forms of water-based sport!) Yet with Callen and Sam also on scene, it’s beginning to look as if this is part of the actual investigation in sussing out a suspect or protecting a potential victim. Or might this simply be an example of a holiday-themed celebratory team outing? In observing both Joelle and young Kamran Hanna at the rink, the answer is virtually unknown.

Now wielding a different kind of blades, the often-dangerous Kensi not only states she wants to be bold, but also expresses it boldly! To her partner! This begs the questions of “How does she want to be bold? and “With whom?” Acting boldly himself, Deeks cradles Kensi’s neck and quickly pulls her to him to…? Whisper in her ear? Actually kiss her? (The only thing we know for sure is it has served as fuel for the ever-burning fire of the Densi fandom!) Yet are their proximity, words, & actions just another cover ruse or true to their real-life ‘ship?

Based on this hyped episode’s keen character offerings, coupled (no pun intended) with the heightened level of “Densi Frenzy”, fans still have plenty of opportunity to determine writers Harimoto & Bartels fates: Will they find themselves rejoicing with holiday merriment on the Nice List or be regretfully relegated to the Naughty List?

We can be sure a vast variety of holiday hi-jinx will be delivered NEXT… on NCISLA!

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Next… on NCISLA! Reign Fall (6×10) Preview by Gayle (@DensiLand)

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Reign Fall (6×10) Preview

by Gayle (@DensiLand)

Written by Joseph C. Wilson; Directed by Christine Moore

Official CBS press release – “Reign Fall” – Sam reflects on his own upbringing and relationship with his father when the team investigates the murders of marines who have sons in military academies, on NCIS: LOS ANGELES, Monday, Dec. 8 (9:59-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.

We return this week with the episode title “Reign Fall”. This alone brings about many questions. Whose reign? Over what? Will the “reign” endanger innocent citizens, or possibly the team? Might the “fall” of the “reign” have a catastrophic result? What has veteran NCISLA writer Joey Wilson crafted for us in this iteration, other than an expected “boom” featured in the promo, of course!

In this month of holidays, it seems as if the Spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Future will be visiting Sam. Regarding the past, information about Sam’s father comes to light. How did this person impact the development of our agent that is equal parts tough Navy SEAL and sensitive teddy bear? Current day events will force him to face a personal challenge. Fathers of military academy students are being murdered and it’s revealed Sam fits this description. What?! Yes, in a long-sought revelation we learn Sam indeed has a son! This case and its implications for him and both his professional and personal families must shake Sam’s foundation. Related to his future, his son will surely be central to the case as viewers are finally, truly introduced to both of his children. (This presumes there are only two…?)

Father and son relationships are rarely simple. It’s expected we’ll delve into those complications, but will it include all three generations of Hanna men? Did Sam attend a military academy like his son? Is this where he became a Junior Math Olympian? Why is his son enrolled at a military academy? Is it to follow in his esteemed father’s footsteps or was this a parental directive?

Of course the rest of the team will rally to support their colleague and bring the perpetrator(s) to justice, but in what way? How will they respond when not only one of their own, but also his “blood relation” are connected to their next threatening operation? Will Callen have to “reign” in his partner before Sam takes an ill-conceived or unknowing “fall”? (And I’m not talking about this most recent dive into the pool!) Could this force Sam to recall memories of the last significant time he had to protect his family, specifically Michelle’s eventual entrapment by Siderov and Sam’s own torture? As the SEALs are known to say, “The only easy day was yesterday.”

It seems abundant personal revelations are on this week’s slate of events. The investigation appears to lead Deeks and Kensi to the doorstep of one of the detective’s friends? (A friend that appears to have “bro”-status to the extent their conversation has focused on Fern?! Talk about a serious implication!) Is this man genuinely a friend of Deeks or is this in some way a front? Will he assist with helpful information or is he honestly a suspect? More importantly, what personal information might we glean about our favorite detective’s personal life – presuming his partner doesn’t mortally harm him for his interested response to the bikini-clad “door greeter”!

How might the NCISLA “families” converge NEXT… on NCISLA?

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