And fortunately it is a good, very good even, one. If "Demons" (the last Season 9 episode and the two-parter conclusion) lives up to "Angels" standard, it means Season 9 finishing strongly after starting pretty poorly with "The Inspiration" (very easily the worst of the 'Criminal Minds' season premieres).
Season 9 of 'Criminal Minds' was a highly variable seasons. When it was good, like with "Gabby" and "The Caller", it was great and a fond reminder of what the show used to be. When it was bad, like with "200" and "The Black Queen", it was insultingly so. Then there are episodes that fit within neither extreme, either being decent/good enough or average or just above or below it. As far as Season 9 goes, "Angels" is one of the season's best episodes.
While starting off pretty ordinary (though the opening sequence is quick and quite intense), for 'Criminal Minds' or any other detective/mystery/crime show, "Angels" very quickly becomes much more surprising and twisty, with enough to keep one guessing and shocked without being simplistic or convoluted. Loved the more "who-dunnit" style than to many of the episodes before in the season, and pacing wise it was an adrenaline rush without feeling rushed, just when you think you've figured it out you immediately are given another shock. The ending is filled with suspense and couldn't have been a more thrilling cliff-hanger that effectively bends the nerves, one where one really cares for the fate of two main characters.
Production values are as always stylish and atmospheric, with the episode beautifully and classily shot and lit with slickness and a real sense of mood. The music is the kind that fits very well, and while not enhancing the mood it never distracts at the same time either.
The script is clever and thought-provoking, with a case that's engrossing and easy to follow and with characters that are identifiable, Reid (always has been a favourite) and Rossi (whose character has come on immensely since being first introduced in Season 3) have still got it. Didn't mind Garcia not having a huge amount of screen time at all, if it was an early season episode when she was more interesting, entertaining and likable it may have been a problem but there have been episodes in recent years where there has been too much of her and with her written like a pale, melodramatic and annoying caricature.
Nor with Alex Blake, who has her fair share of detractors (especially in Season 8) but generally in Season 9 she does have more of a personality, that is more fleshed out and more likable, and is nowhere near as disconnected, also really like her chemistry with Reid. Wouldn't have said no to more Hotch though. Mills and McGregor are fun supporting characters, and effectively played by Brett Cullen and Michael Trucco, Cullen in particular seems to be really enjoying himself.
Found very little to criticise actually about "Angels", other than Cruz serving absolutely no point to the story at all. Esai Morales not only isn't given much to do but he himself also shows a lack of enthusiasm.
Overall, very good first part to the season finale, here's to hoping that the high level continues to "Demons". 8/10 Bethany Cox
Season 9 of 'Criminal Minds' was a highly variable seasons. When it was good, like with "Gabby" and "The Caller", it was great and a fond reminder of what the show used to be. When it was bad, like with "200" and "The Black Queen", it was insultingly so. Then there are episodes that fit within neither extreme, either being decent/good enough or average or just above or below it. As far as Season 9 goes, "Angels" is one of the season's best episodes.
While starting off pretty ordinary (though the opening sequence is quick and quite intense), for 'Criminal Minds' or any other detective/mystery/crime show, "Angels" very quickly becomes much more surprising and twisty, with enough to keep one guessing and shocked without being simplistic or convoluted. Loved the more "who-dunnit" style than to many of the episodes before in the season, and pacing wise it was an adrenaline rush without feeling rushed, just when you think you've figured it out you immediately are given another shock. The ending is filled with suspense and couldn't have been a more thrilling cliff-hanger that effectively bends the nerves, one where one really cares for the fate of two main characters.
Production values are as always stylish and atmospheric, with the episode beautifully and classily shot and lit with slickness and a real sense of mood. The music is the kind that fits very well, and while not enhancing the mood it never distracts at the same time either.
The script is clever and thought-provoking, with a case that's engrossing and easy to follow and with characters that are identifiable, Reid (always has been a favourite) and Rossi (whose character has come on immensely since being first introduced in Season 3) have still got it. Didn't mind Garcia not having a huge amount of screen time at all, if it was an early season episode when she was more interesting, entertaining and likable it may have been a problem but there have been episodes in recent years where there has been too much of her and with her written like a pale, melodramatic and annoying caricature.
Nor with Alex Blake, who has her fair share of detractors (especially in Season 8) but generally in Season 9 she does have more of a personality, that is more fleshed out and more likable, and is nowhere near as disconnected, also really like her chemistry with Reid. Wouldn't have said no to more Hotch though. Mills and McGregor are fun supporting characters, and effectively played by Brett Cullen and Michael Trucco, Cullen in particular seems to be really enjoying himself.
Found very little to criticise actually about "Angels", other than Cruz serving absolutely no point to the story at all. Esai Morales not only isn't given much to do but he himself also shows a lack of enthusiasm.
Overall, very good first part to the season finale, here's to hoping that the high level continues to "Demons". 8/10 Bethany Cox
