In the ninth season episode “The Monster,” NCIS Los Angeles delves into the theme of failure, exploring its ramifications through the lens of personal and professional dilemmas faced by the team. While the premise is compelling, the execution has its flaws, detracting from the overall impact.
Exploring Failure
The episode stands out by increasing the stakes for the team, as they grapple with multiple failures. After the emotional fallout from past episodes—like the loss of Michelle and Callen’s father—the narrative continues to build on the consequences of failure. Mosley’s backstory is fleshed out as she seeks to capture her ex, arms dealer Spencer Williams, in a bid to reclaim her son. This personal stake adds depth to her character and highlights her emotional struggles.
Simultaneously, Sam and Kensi’s investigation into a murder leads them to the realization that they inadvertently interacted with the serial killers involved. This twist amplifies the tension, as the team’s close encounter with danger leaves them feeling frustrated and ineffective. The missed opportunity to catch the killers is a poignant moment that could have been explored further to highlight their emotional responses.
Character Dynamics and Flaws
Despite the intriguing themes, some character interactions feel contrived. The initial conflict surrounding Deeks and the team’s dynamics with Mosley feels forced, especially given the team’s history of temporary partnerships. This sudden concern seems out of character and undermines the established relationships.
Additionally, Mosley’s lack of communication is a recurring frustration. Her evasiveness hampers the effectiveness of her collaboration with Callen, resulting in missed opportunities for richer storytelling. A more transparent approach could have led to a more engaging partnership, rather than relegating them to the sidelines of the investigation.
Potential for Depth
“The Monster” could have benefitted from focusing more on each storyline separately, allowing for a deeper exploration of the characters’ failures and their repercussions. The episode’s dark themes provide a foundation for strong narratives, yet the rushed pacing prevents them from reaching their full potential.
Overall, while “The Monster” offers a glimpse into the complexities of failure within the team, it falls short of delivering the emotional resonance and character development that could elevate it to the level of some of the season’s stronger episodes. There’s promise in the concepts presented, and hopefully, future episodes will expand on these themes in a more cohesive manner.
