Elementary Season 3 Episode 23 Review: Absconded
Tanya Moat
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Bees were buzzing and dying on Elementary Season 3 Episode 23 while Captain Gregson was offered a promotion that would take him away from Sherlock and Joan.
This was the penultimate episode and it was rather ho-hum. Most series build up excitement for their season finale to ensure you tune-in and come back next season. This was not that kind of episode.
It was a bit confusing and a little all over the place. But worst of all - it was boring.
I enjoy this iteration of Sherlock Holmes, particularly how they have humanized him. However, I really feel this season have lacked a certain amount of intrigue or a compelling arc. While the beginning had Kitty's story, it has drifted along since she left. Mostly stand-alone episodes not tied to a greater storyline or threat.
Some of those episodes have been very good, but when you feature the world's greatest detective, you really want him to have a nemesis who is truly his equal. The unfortunate part of having his greatest nemesis played by the wonderfully, talented Natalie Dormer is that she has a very limited availability.
I understand this is not a serial, but most procedurals have serial elements, which I feel enhance the show. Because Moriarty isn't readily available, I suggest creating a wholly unique rival or pick another from Arthur Conan Doyle's books who can toy with Sherlock and wreak havoc until it's the right time to bring back Moriarty.
Okay, enough ranting for now. Let's get down to business.
Bees were dying, which you knew would be something Sherlock would be concerned about since he has his own small apiary. Colony Collapse Disorder is actually a real problem and no cause has been uncovered yet. Of course, in the fictional world, Sherlock Holmes will find the murderer of bees and people.
The murderer was easy for Sherlock to determine, but it did lead to more crimes, and the discovery that our victim wasn't such a good guy. Everett Keck was supposed to be finding what caused the deadly outbreak, but he was actually the one behind it.
This discovery then led Sherlock to realize Keck had poisoned his boss who was investigating him, which then led Sherlock to a kidnapped Sheik. Confused? Me too.
Okay, it probably wasn't that confusing, but it was a little convoluted. Or maybe it was crystal clear, and my boredom prevented me from following along. Either one is possible.
In the end, like so many crimes, it was about greed and sex.
What does Buddhism have to do with erectile dysfunction?
Joan
Apparently when you send sexy pictures to a Sheik you plan to kidnap, you shouldn't wear your lover's cap and gown because your husband might get upset and turn against you, even though he was okay with the sexy pictures because he was a part of that scheme.
The more interesting storyline involved Captain Gregson and him possibly leaving the team to become Deputy Chief. As Sherlock noted their success would certainly benefit Gregson, which he deserved. However, he wasn't sure he wanted it.
I love what we do. You. Me. Marcus. Holmes. It's not some report that shows up on my desk. I'm a part of this.
Gregson
I found it interesting that he confided in Joan while not wanting to involve Sherlock. She did help him figure out what was in his heart, which in all fairness, Sherlock might not have done. He would have told him to take it, I think.
The truth is the 11th Precinct is where I want to be.
Gregson
I agree, Captain Gregson! You are an integral part of this team. His answer wasn't a huge surprise but learning the higher-ups wanted Gregson to take the promotion and leave the 11th precinct was. Hopefully, we will learn more next week.
What did you think of tonight's episode? Did it set-up an exciting season finale for next week or just seem like a normal episode? Why do you think Gregson's bosses want him out of the 11th Precinct? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Don't forget you watch Elementary online via TV Fanatic at your convenience.
