Don't really agree with the previous reviewer respectfully. 'Criminal Minds' is not what it once was generally, it has become hit and miss with too many average/mediocre episodes and some stinkers (especially in Seasons 9 and 11). There have been at the same time some very good episodes and also the odd gem.
As said in all my reviews of Season 12 so far, Season 12 considering the circumstances has been much better than expected. "Taboo" and particularly "The Anti-Terror Squad" were disappointments, but personally was very impressed by "Elliot's Pond", joined with this episode as the best 'Criminal Minds' episode since the previous season's season finale "The Storm". "Mirror Image" to me was the joint best episode of the season to date.
Was not sure initially whether it would work, that it was directed by Joe Mantegna (a very good 'Criminal Minds' director if not quite as good as Matthew Gray Gubler, who has been responsible for a few of the best episodes of the whole show) promised much. However, considering that neither the character of Tara Lewis or Aisha Tyler's acting has never done much for me and "Mirror Image" was a Tara-centric episode, there was a little nervous about it.
No fear of that after all. Tara is finally an interesting character, her story is intriguing, tense and moving, and Tyler gives her best acting to date on the show which is saying a huge amount. In fact, all the acting is very good, Matthew Gray Gubler standing out as a far better used Reid than "The Anti-Terror Squad" (which saw him criminally underused). It was wonderful to see Reid true to character, what makes his character the fan favourite is in full view here, his intelligence is a sheer delight.
The team interaction is the best it's been all season so far. Some of it has tension and some of it is also hugely entertaining. They also work cohesively as a team and how they solve the case is closer to prime 'Criminal Minds' than the latter season stinkers. Prentiss as chief and her return is one of the show's best decisions in a long time.
Case is also fascinating. It is very tense, creepy and poignant and is also very twisty. The unsub is remarkably sympathetic and replaces the one from "Keeper" as the best developed and acted of the season so far. Was worried initially as to whether the Mr Scratch story line would be too drawn out, needn't have worried because he makes a frightening impression and is a remarkable sicko of a character.
Visually, "Mirror Image" is very well shot and lit and is overall stylish, gritty, classy and atmospheric. The music is moody in the haunting and melancholic sense and fits well, without either enhancing or distracting from it. Joe Mantegna does a great job directing. In support, Alimi Ballard and Terence Terrell are revelations.
Although Alvez is settling in well, there are a couple of times when Adam Rodriguez's quirks distract and are a little annoying. Also miss Hotch and his exit in this season has done the character a big disservice.
In conclusion, very good episode and one of the best of the season to date. 8/10 Bethany Cox
