In this week’s episode of NCIS: Los Angeles, titled “The Chosen One,” the team dives headfirst into the harrowing world of terrorism and undercover operations, showcasing their strengths and resilience in a high-stakes situation.
A Return to Form
Season 4 has seen its ups and downs, but “The Chosen One” stands out as a strong installment, focusing on a gripping life-or-death scenario. The narrative kicks off with a seemingly routine traffic stop that escalates into chaos when a police officer discovers something sinister inside a van. The pivotal clue—a fast food bag—sets off a chain reaction that propels the NCIS team into action.
Eric and Nell’s tech-savvy skills shine as they trace the van to a parking lot, where they find traces of ammonium nitrate. This leads them to a Chechen terror cell, ultimately guiding the undercover operation that Callen undertakes to infiltrate their ranks.
Undercover Dangers
Callen’s mission to pose as Anwar Amurov is fraught with peril. The resemblance between the two men plays to the team’s advantage, but the risk is palpable, especially when a pizza delivery creates a tense moment of potential discovery. The operation is a reminder of the constant threat of violence, particularly illustrated through Callen’s interactions with Gloria, a character whose faith and hope have been twisted by extremist ideologies. Her tragic decision to follow through with a suicide bombing adds a layer of emotional weight to the episode.
The tension reaches its peak when Callen, in a moment of distraction, makes a critical mistake by using the wrong hand while writing. Thankfully, Sam and the team come through, preventing catastrophe just in time.
The Heart of the Episode
While the undercover mission is compelling, the standout element of the episode is the lighter moments, particularly the recurring fish motif. The banter surrounding fish not only provides comic relief but also showcases the team’s camaraderie. The concept of a “doppelganger fish tank,” appropriated by Hetty, is a delightful touch that adds a quirky layer to the episode. The unexpected scare from a guppy serves as a humorous reminder of the episode’s more whimsical side.
Conclusion
Overall, “The Chosen One” successfully combines tension and levity, returning to the series’ roots of tackling terrorism while highlighting the strength of teamwork and friendship. The clever dialogue and character interactions elevate the narrative, making it one of the season’s more memorable entries.
Did you enjoy this thrilling dive back into terrorism-based cases? Which fish doppelganger made you chuckle the most? Let us know your thoughts!
