Criminal Minds Review of Episode 9×06, “In The Blood”

Criminal Minds Review of Episode 9×06, “In The Blood”

“Do you feel lucky, punk?”

Ow.

How much would it hurt to have rocks piled on you until you’re just dessicated rubble yourself? I think I’ve just found a new numero uno on the list of ways not to die. This episode’s methods were interesting, even if the UnSub himself wasn’t. We didn’t get much backstory on him, or his methodology and motivation, which actually was compelling and warranted more attention. The history of the Salem Witch Trials is gruesome indeed, a virtual case study in sanctioned genocide, and it would’ve been nice to see a little more of the history there, especially since this was their Halloween episode.  JJ’s remark “Did you know not a single witch was burned in Salem?” was new to me, I always was under the impression they lit ’em up at the drop of a (pointy?) hat.

Thrilled that Zimmerman dialed back the gross factor for once (no maggots! Yay!), and Spencer’s contributions were again recognized (loved the ‘reiding’ scene), even though you can tell he still isn’t quite himself. There were some great team scenes (always my favorite), Reid doing a very bad Clint Eastwood impression, and it’s always welcome to see the use of the green screen effects, which were a staple in the earliest seasons. The effect is signature Criminal Minds, and a nice nod to the roots of the show.

Hotch’s “Well, I don’t speak in parables…” dressing down of the snooty Herbert Sykes was awesome, typical of his commanding style, and it was a relief to see him on point this soon after his surgery. Nothing distresses me more than seeing Hotch in a hospital gown, and it was good to see our Alpha back in action. Go get ’em, Aaron.

We wrap up with a memorial altar at Garcia’s place, her Day of the Dead theme appropriate and oddly touching. Each of them brought a photo of someone they’d lost, and said a few words of remembrance. It was nice to finally get a name for JJ’s sister; Rosaline, and Blake sharing her mom’s influence was responsible for her love of words and language was another check-off in the character’s backstory. Reid’s choice to be silent while honoring Maeve, yet waxing rhapsodic about Tesla’s accomplishments was unique and true to character, and we knew Morgan and Garcia would choose their parents. Rossi’s decision to honor his fallen comrade was in keeping with Mantegna’s real-life dedication to veterans – although I would have liked to have seen Strauss remembered, too.

All in all, In The Blood was a big check in the ‘win’ column, and with six episodes in, we’re seeing nine shaping up impressively so far. Bring on the “Gatekeeper”!

Written by: Bruce Zimmerman

Directed by: Michael Lange