“NCIS: Origins” – A Dive into Gibbs’s Past

CBS introduces “NCIS: Origins,” a prequel that dives into the background of Leroy Jethro Gibbs during his early days as a NIS agent in 1991. While the show offers a nostalgic flair with a focus on various characters surrounding Gibbs, it struggles to provide a more enriching portrayal of Gibbs himself. The series manages to balance familiar procedural elements with themes of personal loss and evolving workplace dynamics, making it a watchable, if imperfect, addition to the beloved franchise.

In a world where familiar faces return with fresh tales, CBS unveils “NCIS: Origins,” a prequel that delves into the formative years of the iconic Leroy Jethro Gibbs, reimagined through the eyes of Austin Stowell, who breathes life into a younger version of the character made famous by Mark Harmon. This compelling series transports viewers back to 1991, capturing the gritty essence of military investigations wrapped in a neo-noir style. As the story unfolds against a vibrant period soundtrack that sets a nostalgic tone, we witness young Gibbs navigating the chaotic landscape of his new role as a NIS agent, fresh off a personal tragedy with the loss of his wife and child. Despite the foundations laid for a gripping series, the narrative often casts Gibbs himself into a shadowy corner, revealing his stoicism without the rich depth that viewers might expect, making him, ironically, the most tedious aspect of the show. Gibbs, the rookie with battle-scarred knuckles, is labeled “probie,” grappling with the sharp-edged dynamics of his team and the darker realities of the crimes they investigate. As he encounters various personnel, we meet the ambitious investigator Lala, who challenges both Gibb’s mental state and the old-school sexism of the workplace, Randy, whose earnest demeanor adds charm, and the nurturing Secretary Mary Jo, all adding texture to the unfolding drama. Familiarity reigns with appearances by young versions of past characters but, refreshing or predictable, it’s the characters around Gibbs that often steal the spotlight. While Gibbs struggles for emotional resonance, “NCIS: Origins” bravely strives to elevate themes of trauma, accountability, and the complexities of military life—ambitious aims that sometimes wade into cliché waters. Still, amidst the traditional procedural elements, there’s a budding sense of growth in the storytelling and character dynamics that leave traces of promise if only for a brief moment. So settle in for a nostalgic journey, where the past meets the procedural, and while Gibbs may lack the sparkle of complexity, the team around him shines bright enough to make this spin-off worth watching for loyal fans on Monday nights.

As a part of the long-standing “NCIS” franchise, which has captivated audiences for over two decades, “NCIS: Origins” serves as a narrative bridge to understand the past of its central character, Gibbs. The exploration of his backstory during a tumultuous era for both him and the world around him aims to deepen the viewer’s connection to this beloved character while introducing new themes relevant to the time. CBS seeks to capitalize on the nostalgia of its audience while providing relatable conflict and solid investigative plotlines.

In summary, while “NCIS: Origins” may present a mixed bag of engaging character dynamics and overwhelming clichés, it ultimately stands as a reminder of the complexities of its central character’s past and invites fans to rejoice in the familiar as they tread through the new. A noble effort is made to present a more mature take on the franchise, albeit with some growing pains along the way. This spin-off might be a mixed experience, yet it’s undeniably an intriguing addition for long-time followers, who can savor the unfolding retrospective of Gibbs’s early career.

Original Source: www.usatoday.com