In today’s rapidly changing world, people often seek continuity and reliability in their entertainment. There’s a certain comfort in knowing what to expect—such as familiar settings and characters—especially after a long day. This familiarity is a key factor behind the ongoing success of franchise shows. While they may not push boundaries in artistic innovation, they provide a sense of escapism that audiences often desire.
“NCIS,” which stands for the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, is a long-running series that explores the workings of a specialized military police team handling various cases tied to military personnel. The premise may seem limited at first, but the show has successfully evolved, managing to produce multiple spin-offs while maintaining viewer interest.
The franchise encompasses a range of genres, including crime procedural, comedy, soap opera, and action-adventure. It seamlessly combines lighthearted entertainment with suspense, appealing to a wide audience. The military backdrop adds a layer of patriotism, which some viewers appreciate, but the show’s narrative also acknowledges the complexities within military culture.
Over the years, “NCIS” has spawned several iterations, set in locations like Los Angeles, New Orleans, Hawaii, and Sydney, each with its own unique flair. Despite the varying degrees of their successes, none have matched the impact and longevity of the original series, which is set to launch its 22nd season on CBS.
The upcoming addition to the “NCIS” franchise is “NCIS: Origins.” Instead of introducing a new city, this series takes viewers back in time to 1991, featuring a younger Leroy Jethro Gibbs, played by Austin Stowell, who has just started on the team he will eventually lead. The series is set in Oceanside, California, at Camp Pendleton, reflecting a stark and less glamorous setting compared to the high-tech environments of modern “NCIS” shows.
In this earlier era, the technology is outdated, showcasing the contrast of a world that relies on phone booths, pagers, and bulky computers. This nostalgic approach offers a refreshing break from current trends.
Mark Harmon, who played Gibbs in the original series before his departure after the 19th season, established a template for the character of the team leader—stern yet supportive. The younger Gibbs is still coming to terms with personal trauma, dealing with the aftermath of his family’s murder and exhibiting signs of instability.
Unlike previous series where Gibbs took the lead role, he shares the spotlight with Mike Franks, his mentor, portrayed as a rough-around-the-edges cop. The dynamics within the team create tension, especially as characters like competitive agent Lala Dominguez challenge Gibbs’ instincts.
The initial episodes emphasize emotional struggles and interpersonal conflicts among team members, balanced by lighter moments supplied by comedic characters. Stowell as Gibbs presents a contrast to Harmon, and while he carries the attributes of a lead character, he has yet to establish the gravitas associated with the long-standing role.
With “NCIS: Origins,” audiences will experience a blend of old and new, offering insights into the formative years of a beloved character while maintaining the elements of drama and levity that have characterized the franchise.