NCIS: LA Fans Feel Season 14’s Finale Does The Series A Disservice
The NCIS: Los Angeles season 14 finale has stirred up significant discussion among its loyal fanbase, with many fans expressing their disappointment and frustration. For a show that has built a reputation over the years for delivering compelling drama, intricate plotlines, and unforgettable moments, season 14’s conclusion left a lot to be desired. Fans are feeling that the finale not only failed to live up to expectations but also did a disservice to the series’ legacy.
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind the fans’ discontent, break down the critiques of the season 14 finale, and look at what could have been done differently. Read on to learn why the grand conclusion left many fans disappointed.
The Disappointing Conclusion of Season 14
Unresolved Plotlines and Loose Ends
One of the main reasons fans have expressed dissatisfaction with the NCIS: LA season 14 finale is the sheer number of unresolved plotlines. Over the course of the season, the show presented multiple story arcs that promised to lead to satisfying conclusions. However, many of these storylines were left hanging, creating a sense of unfinished business.
For instance, the ongoing struggle with major threats to national security, personal conflicts within the team, and the future of key relationships were expected to be addressed in the season finale. Instead, fans were left with more questions than answers. When a series builds up tension throughout a season, viewers expect the finale to deliver on those promises, but the lack of resolution in key areas left many feeling let down.
The Underwhelming Fate of Key Characters
Another factor that contributed to the sense of disappointment in the NCIS: LA season 14 finale was the treatment of several key characters. Over the years, the show has introduced a diverse and complex cast of characters, each with their own unique arcs. Fans have become deeply invested in these individuals and their journeys. As such, the way they were handled in the finale left much to be desired.
For example, Kensi Blye (played by Daniela Ruah) and Marty Deeks (played by Eric Christian Olsen) have been central to the show’s emotional heart. Their dynamic has been a fan favorite, but the season finale barely touched on their personal struggles and growth. The lack of focus on their evolving relationship felt like a missed opportunity to provide closure or further development.
Similarly, Sam Hanna (played by LL Cool J) and Callen (played by Chris O’Donnell) have long been the backbone of the show. Both characters have undergone significant growth over the years, but the season 14 finale didn’t offer much in terms of deep exploration of their characters. For fans who have followed these characters’ journeys for over a decade, their relatively underwhelming arcs left many feeling dissatisfied.
The Pacing and Tone of the Finale
Too Much Focus on Action, Not Enough on Character Development
NCIS: LA has always balanced high-octane action with compelling character-driven storylines. However, in the season 14 finale, the focus on action seemed to overshadow the much-needed character development. While fans expect an action-packed conclusion, they also want emotional payoffs and character arcs to be resolved in a satisfying way.
The finale leaned heavily on explosive scenes and intense moments of action, but in doing so, it left little room for character exploration. Fans were hoping for a more introspective and emotional finale, particularly given the stakes of the season. The action may have been thrilling, but it ultimately detracted from the emotional depth that NCIS: LA is known for.
The Missed Opportunity for Closure
Season finales are often the moment when a show ties up loose ends and gives its characters and storylines the closure they deserve. The NCIS: LA season 14 finale, however, failed to offer a sense of closure for the team or the audience. With so many lingering plot points and unanswered questions, it felt like the writers missed a crucial opportunity to wrap up the season in a meaningful way.
The absence of a clear resolution left fans feeling like the show was simply treading water rather than delivering a satisfying conclusion. After 14 seasons of invested storytelling, viewers were hoping for a finale that would honor the show’s legacy and provide closure for both the characters and the fans. Unfortunately, the season 14 finale didn’t deliver on these expectations.
What Could Have Been Done Differently?
More Focus on Character Development
One of the key aspects that NCIS: LA fans have always appreciated is the development of the show’s characters. Throughout the series, viewers have followed the personal and professional growth of the team, and it’s those moments that have made the show so relatable. To truly honor the show’s legacy, the season 14 finale could have done more to focus on the emotional journeys of the characters rather than relying on action sequences to provide excitement.
By giving each character a moment of reflection or resolution, the finale could have provided fans with a sense of closure. Whether it’s Kensi and Deeks navigating their future, Sam and Callen reflecting on their partnership, or the team as a whole coming together in a meaningful way, the finale could have left fans with a deeper emotional connection to the story.
Resolving Major Story Arcs
Another major point of frustration for fans was the lack of resolution for key story arcs. The finale had the potential to address major questions and tie up long-running plotlines, but instead, it left fans hanging. For example, the threat to national security that had been teased throughout the season could have been concluded in a way that felt earned and satisfying. Instead, the finale simply brushed it aside.
Additionally, the unresolved tension between certain characters—such as the personal struggles of the team members—could have been addressed more thoroughly. Fans were invested in these arcs and wanted to see them reach a conclusion. A more thoughtful, layered resolution would have gone a long way in making the finale feel complete.
What Are Fans Saying About the Finale?
Disappointment and Discontent
The general reaction to the season 14 finale has been one of disappointment. On social media platforms, fans have expressed their dissatisfaction with the way the show wrapped up its season. Many fans took to Twitter to voice their frustrations, saying that the finale didn’t do justice to the show’s long history or the beloved characters.
One fan tweeted, “After 14 seasons, this is how we’re left with? I expected a more emotional and satisfying ending for these characters we’ve watched grow for over a decade.” Others expressed similar sentiments, stating that the action-heavy finale didn’t leave room for the depth and emotional payoff they had hoped for.
Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for the Future of NCIS: LA?
What Can Fans Expect Moving Forward?
While the season 14 finale may have disappointed some viewers, it doesn’t necessarily mean the end for NCIS: LA. The show’s legacy of character-driven storytelling and action-packed drama remains strong, and there’s hope that future seasons will do a better job of delivering the emotional closure and development that fans crave. If the show can find a balance between action and character arcs, it’s possible that NCIS: LA can bounce back from the criticisms of its season 14 finale.
Conclusion: The Legacy of NCIS: Los Angeles
The NCIS: Los Angeles season 14 finale may not have lived up to the expectations of many fans, but the show’s legacy as one of the most beloved procedural dramas on television remains intact. While the finale may have left fans wanting more, there’s still plenty of potential for the show to continue delivering exciting and emotionally engaging stories in future seasons.
As the team faces new challenges and evolving threats, fans will undoubtedly remain invested in the characters and the world of NCIS: LA. Whether the show’s future includes a more satisfying conclusion or further character development, it’s clear that the NCIS: LA team has much more to offer.