Criminal Minds - TV Fanatic

Criminal Minds Episode Trailer: JJ on the Attack!

matt@mediavine.com (Matt Richenthal) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:59:22 EST

Having a bad day? The unsub on next week's new Criminal Minds has a cure for that. But you probably won't like it, as teased in the following preview.

Looking ahead to "Closing Time," fans can expect to see bodies discovered in lifeguard towers along Southern California beaches. They can also expect to see JJ kick some serious behind.

Watch now to get an idea of the sort of villain she'll be up against and then prepare for this agent to physically combat an evil doer in very close proximity on the episode:

Criminal Minds Promo: "Closing Time"

Criminal Minds Review: Hit it, Maestro

ra3480@yahoo.com (Renata Sellitti) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:53:44 EST

Criminal Minds writers decided to honor the show's 150th episode by changing up the formula a bit.

As promised by A.J. Cook, the action in "Unknown Suspect" didn't disappoint, but it did keep us guessing until the very end. We're used to our UnSubs doing bad things, but they don't usually provide their own soundtrack (or share the same name as a Billy Joel song, ha!). Making a playlist to victimize to? That's just creepy.

It's also pretty brilliant, in a people-are-capable-of-doing-sick-things kind of way. I was amused by their choices of tracks as well. Some of those were torturous enough just to hear without having an UnSub assault on top of it. Rape is no laughing matter, of course. But I couldn't help but wonder a few minutes into the episode: do you think he takes requests?

It seems like writer Breen Frazier was really attempting to think outside the box when he wrote the script for this one. Our first surprise came when it was revealed that our victims had already been victims before, not to mention when they figured out the victims were being drugged via cigarette. Then, when Regina pulled out her taser and turned the tables on her attacker I almost leapt off my couch. Wow, didn't see that one coming.

I think the idea of throwing out a red herring to throw us off, in the form of the hospital orderly, was a good notion. It's nothing they haven't tried before, but I enjoyed the intrigue anyway. What I didn't expect, however, was to end up second guessing at the end whether or not the man being held hostage was innocent or if they'd known he was the UnSub all along. I'm sure our readers will have a wide variety of opinions as to whether or not this tool worked well, but I tend to think it was an effective way to keep us on our toes.

I have to say, though, my favorite part of was how they added little psychological factoids, like how the music we listen to at age 14 has the most lasting effect on us emotionally. How neat! You learn something new everyday. It also enabled them to deduce that the man in custody was too young to be the murderer, a bit of profiling I particularly enjoyed.

When Garcia made reference to "What Would SSA Hotchner Do?" and then said she imagined herself in a really good suit, I slapped my knee. I know she's been the subject of some love-her-or-hate-her? discussions in our comments sections lately, but for the record I think Garcia adds something to the show that can't be replicated. There weren't any Reid one-liners this week, but that's alright, you can't win 'em all.

As for the Prentiss dealing with her own death storyline, I was happy they finally acknowledged that Prentiss had turned into somewhat of a shoulder to cry on/sensitive advice-giver this whole season. Many of us have mentioned that her character seemed to be relegated to that role lately, so for them to at least own up to it was appreciated. It seems she's made progress by being able to tell Hotch she was having a bad day, even if she did blatantly lie to her therapist.

Did anyone else wonder why the FBI wouldn't have a psychologist capable of deducing if she was being lied to, especially since she was working with behavioral experts trained to control their physiological cues after all? Just a thought. Maybe they should've plucked one of their own BAU wannabe's or castoffs to fill that position; at least then they'd be able to spot when one of their agents was faking.

We'll be back in two weeks to dissect the next profiling madness on Criminal Minds. As usual, we love to hear your thoughts on this week's action, so pull up a seat and weigh in.

A.J. Cook on 150th Criminal Minds Episode: Expect the Unexpected!

matt@mediavine.com (Matt Richenthal) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:53:57 EST

150 episodes. It's a milestone for any series and any series star.

But the Criminal Minds installment airing tomorrow night is extra special for A.J. Cook, considering she didn't think she'd be a part of it following a cast upheaval in 2010.

"For me, this one means a little bit more," the actress told me over the phone. "I'm so overwhelmed even to this day by all the fan support. Not a day goes by when I'm not grateful for it and grateful to be working with this group of actors. And here we are..."

Criminal Minds 150th Episode Promo: "Unknown Suspect"

Here they are, indeed, set to unleash "Unknown Suspect" on the world.

As previewed above, the episode will focus on a serial rapist (known as "The Piano Man" and played by Jay Karnes) who resurfaces in order to re-assault previous victims. But Cook makes it sound like the case, which takes the BAU to Houston, will be anything but typical.

"The best way to say it is: expect the unexpected," the actress teased. "It will be a roller coaster of a ride for the audience to go on, with an interesting twist that [Karnes] handles so well."

Cook points to the show's 100th episode and to her character's "swan song" episode as two that really stand out over the years, but it's clear that any time spent with her castmates is welcome, no matter what they're shooting or doing.

"I've been texting with the girls all night and morning," she said, joking: "I'm almost afraid of my next job now! What if I end up with all these crazy people? It really can't get any better than it is now."

The same might not be true for JJ, however. Cook is really excited about an upcoming episode in which we see JJ "in a completely different light."

"There's a pretty ugly fight," the actress previews. "You see a tougher, scrapper, bloodier JJ. It was so much fun to film and I can't wait for everyone to see it."

Criminal Minds airs the big 1-5-0 tomorrow night. Visit TV Fanatic soon after it concludes for a detailed review of events.

Criminal Minds Review: Copycats and Check Mates

ra3480@yahoo.com (Renata Sellitti) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 01:12:14 EST

New year, new episodes of Criminal Minds. Finally! Welcome back, BAU lovers, and welcome back to Hotch and the gang.

They say good things come to those who wait, and anyone who watched "True Genius" would likely agree. After five long weeks without any Un-Subs to profile or cases to crack, the folks at CBS delivered what I'd consider to be a pretty entertaining episode to kick off 2012. With copycat killers, an infamous case revisited and numerous chess references, there wasn't a dull moment for the team.

First things first: Reid was especially brilliant this week. His constant deciphering of codes was impressive even by Reid standards, and when the Un-Sub directly challenged him, I was positively gleeful in anticipation. Even though the killer was himself a genius, nobody better step to Dr. Spencer Reid unless you plan to come correct - he's just one step ahead of the game. The chess game, that is.

I think it was clever how the writers led us on a bit of a chase to first decide whether the killer could possibly have been the same from 40 years ago, then had him communicating through the newspaper, and finally made us wonder whether it was Harvey or Caleb who was ultimately more evil. The answer: both. The fiancee should be happy she dodged a (literal) bullet on that one.

The idea of incorporating such a well known case like the Zodiac murders, featured in many movies, TV shows and books over the years, was also a fun way to engage the audience because we felt like we already knew some back story. Plus, the killer wasn't revealed until almost half way through the episode, and I appreciated how it wasn't clear right away what Harvey's role had been all along. I also liked how they had to change the profile halfway through when they found out the killer's IQ was above 160, and when Garcia said the Mensa society was "slumming it because it only required an IQ of 130." I couldn't help but laugh.

Some things that I noticed this week, in no particular order:

Reid's refusal to shake the detective's hand reminded me that he's been known to have phobias in the past (like elevators), so we can add germs to that list now.
When Hotch checked his watch in the park it seemed like a fairly overt product placement for Rolex. Did anybody else notice that? Either that or they want us to believe that FBI agents just rock really expensive watches... which could be true, you never know.
Reid flexed his federal agent muscles again when he called that guy out in the press conference for being a fake. Way to lay down the law Reid. The actual law.
Rossi kissing Reid on the face for his birthday was priceless. Nice how Rossi is such a father figure for them, he balances out Hotch's quiet demeanor.

And, finally, I think Prentiss and Reid's conversation about what he could've been doing with his life was interesting, considering the timing. One would think that any reflection on whether he'd taken the right path would've come when he thought Prentiss had died, because people often reexamine their lives in the wake of a loss. But I suppose his run in with that youthful CEO was the nudge he needed for introspection. Either way, we just got the team back together this season, so please nobody dip out again, thanks.

Next week's official preview shows more Morgan, which could be fun because he wasn't terribly active this week, and also a deadly soundtrack for the crimes. And, I hope, Garcia wearing cat ears again. She's just too quirky not to love.

What did you think of this week's action? Glad the break is over? Wonder what Reid got for his birthday presents? Wish there had been more intrigue? Weigh in, as always I'm all ears.

Criminal Minds Winter Premiere Promo: The Return of Who?!?

matt@mediavine.com (Matt Richenthal) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 14:06:58 EST

It feels like ages, but Criminal Minds finally returns with a new episode this Wednesday night - and it will focus on the return of an iconic serial killer.

Or the suspected return of him, I should say.

On "True Genius," the BAU will travel to San Francisco under suspicion that the Zodiak Killer - yes, that Zodiak Killer - is once again on a murderous warpath. Meanwhile, Reid will ponder his own capabilities as he accompanies Prentiss to a seminar on violent crime hosted by the crime novelist Patricia Cornwell. Watch the CBS episode promo now:

Criminal Minds Promo: "True Genius"

Criminal Minds Review: Knock Down Drag Out

ra3480@yahoo.com (Renata Sellitti) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 03:14:00 EST

Well, well, well. Hotch and Beth, siittin' in a tree...

Look who finally smiled this week - a lot! I know this episode was primarily enjoyable because of Shawn Hatosy and Charles S. Dutton's killer performances, but can we just pause for a moment and recognize the awesomeness that is Hotch finally being given some dating story love? Thank you, writers, even if it only totaled fewer than five minutes of screen time. We'll take it. And I hope this Beth ends up helping Hotch with more than just his triathlon training, if you know what I mean.

But seriously, this week on "The Bittersweet Science," Dutton did a stellar job playing an old school Philadelphia boxing trainer, as did Hatosy in convincing us he was a mentally unhinged fighter with a critically ill child. The scene where Jimmy killed Tony was so spectacularly acted by Dutton, it was almost painful to watch.

I could probably have done without the part where Jimmy has a vision of his son bleeding out the eyes (but again, that may just be my eye phobia), but other than that I felt the flashbacks/visions worked well in explaining his mental state. I was still a little bit unclear as to how Hatosy's character was driven into his blood lust - even their profile didn't fully explain it, in my opinion - but I don't think it particularly hurt the plot. I just had to rewind here and there.

Rossi was absolutely adorable in encouraging Hotch to get out into the dating world, and when Reid said, "Who's getting a bicycle?" I couldn't help but laugh. Moments like that, and Garcia making fun of the final Rocky movie, are what bring a little extra levity to frequently heavy material.

I thought the scene where Hotch convinced Jimmy to tell his son it's alright to let go was just heart breaking, and seeing Hotch cry was really powerful. We so rarely witness any cracks in his armor, and I really, really enjoyed getting more of a glimpse at his human side. Hatosy's performance in that scene was also gut wrenching. I do see what everyone means when you readers say that it's anti-climactic to know who the UnSub is the entire episode. Knowing this was the culprit from the beginning did seem to take a little something away in the suspense area, but coming off last week I suppose I can forgive them.

Prentiss was pretty much set furniture this week, and it would've been cool to see a little more of Reid, but those are minor complaints that didn't really detract from my viewer experience. I will say that the scene on the plane where Garcia puts her foot in her mouth about Hotch was hysterical. Even if you're one of those people who wants more crime talk and less banter, you have to admit that was an endearing moment.

Other than that, I'm not sure what else there is to say about this week other than any time boxing is involved you can't really go wrong. As always, jump in with your thoughts on Hotch's love interest, the guest stars or even the terminally ill child story line - whatever suits your fancy. We'll be treated to reruns over the next few weeks, but keep it right here for all things Criminal Minds after the holidays.

Criminal Minds to Enter the Ring: Official Preview

matt@tvfanatic.com (TV Fanatic Staff) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 14:09:32 EST

Criminal Minds will go down swinging in 2011. Literally!

The CBS hit airs "The Bittersweet Science" tomorrow night, an episode that welcomes guest stars Charles S. Dutton and Shawn Hatsoy and is set in the world of boxing.

Look for the BAU team to head to Philadelphia on the episode, as a series of beatings force members into the universe of the squared circle. Hotch, meanwhile, will bond with an attractive triathlete while they train together. Watch the official preview now:

Criminal Minds Promo: "The Bittersweet Science"

Criminal Minds Review: So Long, Strauss

ra3480@yahoo.com (Renata Sellitti) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 01:31:10 EST

Oh, how the mighty fall.

This week on Criminal Minds we saw an all-around collapse of authority. First, the Colonel's devious ways were uncovered, then Strauss' dirty little secret was revealed. Coming off of a few week break, this episode came out swinging.

One of the biggest pieces of reader feedback this season has been your desire to not know who the UnSub is right away, but you can't say that "Self-Fulfilling Prophecy" didn't keep you on your toes. The is-he-a-victim-or-the-aggressor? storyline that swirled around Josh for most of the episode was constantly changing, and it required some careful following along in order to keep up. Further, the introduction of the young cadet who killed himself's father, and then the killing of him off, was an interesting twist.

The message that the writers were sending with this episode - that of corruption and secrecy at upper levels of military authority (albeit a school and not the Army) - is nothing original, but it does venture into dicey territory.

Would such a place as Somerville Academy even be allowed to exist in real life? With no technology? Who knows. What I do know is that I'm kind of relieved that Strauss is out of the picture temporarily. Her alcoholism story line is nothing to be made fun of, but since she's been a less-than-savory character the majority of her dealings with with the BAU team, I won't necessarily be sad to see her go.

Of course, she has had her moments of compassion and kindness, but she never really meshed with the team, and now we see what she was battling all along. When Morgan confronted her, I was impressed. He didn't mince words, and he wasn't afraid to show her he meant business. I actually laughed when he said that at the beginning of her tirade against Col. Massey he was happy to see her go off, but then he smelled the alcohol and all bets were gone.

Morgan also had a rough time with Hotch this week. The guy made some valid points. I know Hotch is in charge of everyone, but for a group that relies so heavily on trusting one another, keeping things from them seems a very unwise move. Morgan's frustration with Hotch's tendency to withhold information lately - no matter how sensitive - really bubbled to the surface. I know they're handling Strauss' removal with discretion, but I doubt Morgan is the only one on the team who would feel that way towards Hotch if they knew everything, too.

Rossi was the one with the punchy one-liners here - his poison ivy knowing not to mess with him because he's Italian comment made me laugh out loud. And I still don't think Prentiss is being used to her full potential, but at least they gave her some more lines. Reid and Garcia's exchange about paranormal activity was pretty amusing, as well. He knows how much that interests her, and having his knowledge of the subject must be fun for her to dabble in from time to time.

The bullying aspect of this week's episode has been done a million times before since it's so relevant lately, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's any less important or enjoyable as a theme. I'm glad they touched upon it, though it's unfortunate that it exists at all.

Next week's boxer storyline looks like it'll be really solid (promo HERE). Not only is Charles S. Dutton co-starring, but Shawn Hatosy will also appear. I'm a sucker for his performance in Outside Providence, what can I say? Glad to be back with all new episodes, and as always remember to weigh in on what you thought of the action this week.

Something tells me the opinions on Strauss' departure and the Morgan/Hotch conflict will vary greatly...

Criminal Minds Review: All in the Family

ra3480@yahoo.com (Renata Sellitti) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 01:00:47 EST

I don't know about you, but I'd say butterflies have never seemed creepier than they were on this week's episode of Criminal Minds. And a total cliche, and computer-generated, but mostly... creepy.

Okay, those of you who have been complaining that there wasn't enough profiling this season should be happier now. You could practically hear the wheels turning in the heads of the BAU team as they pieced together the twisted kidnapping story. Little by little, they figured out that the victim wasn't just abducted, she was abducted to try and reproduce another child like her own kidnapped daughter. What. The. Eff.

Even though "Hope" was rife with cliches, I still thought it was a decent episode, though there have been better this season. First of all, Garcia upped the ante on her involvement when she told Morgan he'd have to "forcibly remove her from the SUV" because she was riding along to find her friend no matter what. Aw, you tell 'em, Garcia!

Then, she went all hostage negotiator on us and tried to talk the UnSub (who by then was a very KnownSub) out of killing Monica. Who knew that excessive blue eyeshadow complimented an FBI bullet proof vest so nicely?

Also doing some standout work on the team this week - again - was Reid. Though he wasn't as funny as usual, he still kept us on our toes with his rapid fire thinking. And Rossi pretty much nailed it, too, when he figured out the UnSub's real kidnapping motive. I can only say I would've liked to have seen some more Hotch. He barely said anything this week, but maybe they're saving all of his dialogue for the episode when he gets a love interest. Hotch is a man of few words anyway.

When Monica grabbed the gun at the end, did she actually shoot our UnSub Bill? I mean, they made it look like she killed him (or at least shot him), right? But then at the end she was with Garcia at the butterfly-releasing memorial, and I'm assuming if you shoot someone they wouldn't just let you walk around free like that. Was anyone else momentarily confused? (Insert "how could you be so stupid?" reader comments here, no doubt. Kidding!)

I liked how Prentiss and JJ confronted Hope's friend, Heather, and got through to her, despite her hesitation. They're always tossed into the touchy feely sensitive roles for the team, but it seems to be because they're genuinely good at dealing with people. Well, it took Prentiss a minute to get there, though. Maybe coming back to life has softened her up a bit.

Did anyone else notice that it seemed like Morgan was going to say something to Garcia when she was freaking out right before JJ interrupted them to say it was time to deliver the profile? They showed his face and it was almost like he was going to have a more personal moment with her, but I guess we'll never know. Or maybe we're all just so starved to see Morgan get a personal storyline that I'm putting him with anyone these days.

Throw the man a little plot action, please!

As for the actual criminal case, it was an interesting twist to have the UnSub kidnap his victim's mother after having sat behind her in a support group all that time. Makes you wonder how susceptible people are to being taken advantage of while they're grieving. I could've done without the decaying corpse, but it is a crime show after all, so no biggie. It also made me realize what Garcia carries around with her all the time about her own loss and how much she wants to help people after what she sees every day. If her character were ever gone, they'd have virtually no way of replacing her. Garcia is one of a kind.

I'm curious to hear what observations the Criminal Minds faithful came up with after this week. Since you all do your homework, there's sure to be some strong feelings about whether the writers got it right or missed the mark. I just hope that Morgan and Reid get a little more development soon, just as long as the writers don't skimp on the profiling as a result.

Dean Cain to Guest Star on Criminal Minds

matt@tvfanatic.com (TV Fanatic Staff) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:41:05 EST

It's a bird. It's a plane. It's an actor best known for playing Superman!

Dean Cain - who starred years ago opposite Teri Hatcher on ABC's Lois & Clark - will guest star on a future episode of Criminal Minds. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the actor will appear as an in-debt gambler who ends up as a murder suspect. Look for him on the 13th installment of the season.

Other upcoming roles for Cain include a stint on ABC's upcoming new comedy Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23 and USA's Burn Notice.

Criminal Minds, meanwhile, airs a Garcia-based episode tonight. Watch the official CBS promo for it NOW.