L.A. Streets Come Alive in Action-Drama Saga

Read Time:3 Minute, 16 Second

TV SERIES REVIEW
NCIS: Los Angeles: The Complete Series (DVD)
TV-14 –

Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
Year Released: 2009-2023
Runtime: 323 x 43m episodes
Creator(s): Shane Brennan
Cast: Chris O'Donnell, Peter Cambor, Daniela Ruah, Adam Jamal Craig, Linda Hunt, LL Cool J, Barrett Foa, Eric Christian Olsen, Renée Felice Smith, Miguel Ferrer, Nia Long, Medalion Rahimi, Caleb Castille, Gerald McRaney
Where To Watch: available now, order here www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: To be entirely transparent, I do my best to binge-watch the entire TV series before reviewing them; however, I could not screen all 323 episodes before covering this series. I watched several episodes from each season based on each episode's best and worst ratings to get a good feel for the series. NCIS: LOS ANGELES THE COMPLETE SERIES embarks on a riveting saga through the streets of Los Angeles, intertwining the personal and professional lives of its central characters, G. Callen (Chris O’Donnell) and Sam Hanna (LL Cool J). Throughout 19 seasons, this series transcends the traditional crime drama mold, blending deep character exploration with a city that pulsates as a living, breathing entity.

Right from its onset, the show diverges from its NCIS roots, injecting a fresh pulse into the well-established franchise. With its noir undercurrents and perpetual buzz, Los Angeles emerges as a pivotal setting, shaping the narrative. The series' early seasons dip into a melange of storytelling elements, balancing crime-solving with lighter, comedic threads.

The narrative hits a high mark in seasons 2, 4, and 5, where espionage and complex character arcs take center stage, especially for agents Callen and Hanna. Incorporating guest stars from other series infuses the show with nostalgia, bridging the old and the new.

Not all seasons maintain this upward trajectory. Seasons 3 and 6, for instance, tend to feel like intermissions rather than critical chapters, and by season 9, there's a tangible dip in the series' original allure. But just when you think the story might be losing its steam, season 10 reinvigorates the narrative with a cameo that re-sparks interest among its loyal fan base.

NCIS: LOS ANGELES crafts a complex picture of action, drama, and character-driven storylines throughout its extensive run. The chemistry between O’Donnell and LL Cool J stands out, providing a solid foundation that anchors the series. In all its visual grandeur, Los Angeles enhances the storytelling, while the international scope of the crimes tackled adds depth and complexity.

The expertise of writer and executive producer Shane Brennan, honed from his time with NCIS, is evident in the series' strong casting and seamless plot detailing. Despite occasionally treading familiar ground in the crime-solving genre, the series successfully carves out a unique niche within the larger NCIS universe.

NCIS: LOS ANGELES THE COMPLETE SERIES is a multifaceted exploration within the action-crime genre. It offers a compelling blend of action, humor, and intricate storytelling that has evolved impressively over the long run. Catering to a broad spectrum of viewers, from die-hard enthusiasts to casual watchers, it is a notable and significant addition to the television landscape, inviting audiences to explore the depths of Los Angeles and the complexities of its crime-fighting “heroes.”

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[photo courtesy of PARAMOUNT HOME ENTERTAINMENT]

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