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NCIS: Los Angeles - Black Wind - Review: "Humor and Fun"

Feb 4, 2015

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I have to commend the “NCIS: Los Angeles” producing and writing team. The second half of the season, beginning with the holiday episode, has been fantastic. This week the fun ride continues with “Black Wind.” The episode follows the investigation into a man’s anthrax infection. The case takes the NCIS team to Tijuana, Mexico, where someone has used a warehouse to produce the biological agent. Sam and Callen go undercover as food truck operators to gain intel while Kensi and Deeks get help from the infected man’s father.

I loved the humor in this episode. It had so many funny moments and great scenes that it was hard to pick a favorite. And I love that the episode highlighted all the main characters. Sam and Callen were hilarious together, and Kensi and Deeks were both amusing and sweet at various times. The funny banter seemed endless. It reminded me how great the character writing is on this show. The characters are so well-defined and individualized and fun and the writers do a wonderful job of giving them great dialogue that adds new layers to their character definition. Combine that with the great acting and you have a character recipe for success!

Another thing the episode did well was give us a little drama in the midst of the case. I loved how the touching scene at the hospital – where the grandpa, Alejandro, was so thankful to the NCIS team – was immediately followed by the heartbreaking scene of ICE coming to pick him up to deport him and send his family back to Mexico, where they were in danger. The juxtaposition of those two scenes made it all the more devastating and made you feel even more for Alejandro – and Deeks and the team who hadn’t been able to help him. It was great that all the team members, but especially Deeks, were so invested in trying to help this man. They wanted to do right by him since he had helped them with their investigation, and it was awful to see both the grandfather and the young boy saying to Deeks, “This is not what you promised,” and, “You said you were the good guys.” Deeks looked distraught, which just showed how much he cared and wanted to keep his promise, but he was helpless. His word became hollow and he couldn’t do anything to change it. Those dramatic moments added a nice element to the show and made it even more meaningful when Granger spent four hours on the phone to get the man and his family released. Each character expressed his/her relief at the news. But Deeks summed up the scene’s emotions best by hugging Granger – after announcing he was going to do it. (Granger’s aversion and surprise to the hug made it even better.)


Sam and Callen

The two partners had a lot of wonderful scenes and dialogue together in this episode. They were cracking me up! I loved them ribbing each other about who would survive in a Mexican prison. Sam was hilarious as he boasted how he would have a long line of friends and family coming to feed him in prison while he claimed Callen, with only Jo in his corner, would starve to death. We already know how much Sam cares about Callen – he spent two weeks in Atlanta at Callen’s side when “G” was being treated for a deadly virus, all because he didn’t want Callen to wake up alone. He is a great friend. That knowledge just made their good-natured teasing even funnier.

I also adored the scene of them cooking in their “Fast Gringos” food truck, which offered a lot of great moments. My favorites were Callen teasing Sam about buying veggie burgers (which later come in handy) and Sam insisting he has to take over the burger cooking because he can’t stand how Callen is cooking them. I love that Sam is a person who is very specific in how he likes things accomplished. Most of the time, he likes them done his way. He doesn’t like corners cut, and he loves to be right. And Callen knows that. This scene played with all those elements.

The duo wasn’t lacking in action, either. Someone had removed their brakes and rigged their truck to speed up, but their calm thinking under pressure and quick actions saved them from a crash – by just inches, of course. Seriously, I want these guys with me if I’m ever in a pinch. And then there was the shootout at the airport. Callen had some great golf-cart-riding skills, hanging off the side while maneuvering it. I was impressed! As usual, he and Sam worked as a team to take out the bad guys. The hosing down of the helicopter was also a fun touch.


Kensi and Deeks

I really loved Kensi and Deeks’ interactions in this episode. And Deeks had some great scenes with the team. It starts with him bringing in his cactus. I love how Deeks gets so intensely dedicated to a cause in which he believes. He is hilariously focused. And this time his cause is saving water. So he brings in a cactus that hardly needs any water and tells the team not to flush the toilets if they pee. (I laughed out loud at the flier he handed out: “In this land of fun and sun, we don’t flush for number one.”) Everyone – especially Sam – thinks he’s crazy, and during the hubbub, Deeks inadvertently backs up into his cactus and ends up with several thorns in his butt. I loved how no one would help him remove them and Kensi told him he was getting “cactus karma.” (Although later she clearly enjoys inflicting the pain of suddenly pulling them out.)

Then we witnessed some great moments between the couple themselves. I loved their discussion as they fought over who would go up the opening of the tunnel into an unknown, potentially dangerous situation. After Kensi loses at Rock, Paper, Scissors, she amusingly plays the girlfriend card, which I found hilarious because it wasn’t typical Kensi who volunteers for the tough assignments. This time she didn’t want to go up and risk her life if she didn’t have to – if Deeks could do it instead – so she worked the situation by telling Deeks sarcastically (and good-naturedly), “You’re such a gentleman.” It works – Deeks feels guilty, which is cute that he wants to be a gentleman. So he heads up instead, commenting on his way, “This is why you should never fall in love.” It’s so nice to hear him acknowledge his feelings, even in funny moments like these. In fact it’s perfect in these kinds of moments because they feel natural. After all they’ve been through, it’s satisfying to finally see these two acknowledging their relationship in their everyday life. I must say, I’ve loved how they’ve worked as partners since officially dating. They don’t impede or hinder one another as some critics of the pair suggested they might; instead they continue to bring out the best in one another both professionally and personally. They work well together on the job, which was clear in this episode as they made smart decisions in the tunnel, and personally they continue their teasing banter as their way of flirting.

Deeks was also sweet to Alejandro’s family as he and Kensi were working to get the daughter-in-law and young grandson out of Mexico. What a touching scene as Deeks comforts the scared boy by showing him a Mighty Mouse cartoon on his phone. (Kensi loved it, too, as you could see by her smile.) As someone on a bike comes to shoot them, the child was so preoccupied with the cartoon, he didn’t notice Kensi taking him out. Deeks wins new points here for being great with children.

And let’s not forget the love story at the end. After Deeks was trying to find some hope in their situation through a “sign” of a flower on his cactus, Hetty gives them a different kind of hope in her tale about two young lovers who were forbidden to marry. She tells them of a goddess who took pity on the couple and turned the man into a cactus and put the woman’s spirit inside. That way they were always protected and together for eternity. And occasionally when the woman wants to see the view, she emerges as the cactus flower. The story was sweet, but it was the reactions it received from Kensi and Deeks that were the most enjoyable. During the story Kensi looks away, as if she’s uncomfortable with where it’s going. But when Hetty finishes, Kensi and Deeks each share a meaningful, loving smile or gaze at one another that held no doubts about their own love. With all the “prickles” these two gave off with each other for so long to protect themselves, Kensi and Deeks have finally let one another inside their walls and are “protected” and stronger together now because of it.


Other Thoughts

- I enjoyed the character of Mauricio. He was amusing how he first tackled Sam and Callen and then really wanted to help them, even promoting their food truck (as if booming business was really what they needed). These touches made it sadder when he was found dead.

- I loved how every character spoke Spanish in the episode. It seems they all know the language. But Kensi’s (and Daniela Ruah’s) language skills were the most impressive. I loved hearing how the language rolled off her tongue so easily. Maybe we’ll get to hear her speak Portuguese one day!

- Deeks really wanted to go to Mexico, didn’t he? Sam and Callen always outrank him and get the destination assignments, so it was fun to see Kensi and Deeks end up in Mexico later, after all. I love it when they’re all together in new places.

- What a great name for the food truck: “Fast Gringos.” Hilarious!

- I thought Eric’s rain stick could have been used a little more in the episode. He held it and mentioned it but they could have played it up a little more to make it more relevant. Eric and Nell’s role in the episode was pretty routine this week.

- As much as Granger seems to want to stop many of their ideas, he always comes around to seeing their side in the end. I was amused how in the tunnel – after he’s allowed Kensi and Deeks to go after the shooter and Alejandro has been shot – Deeks yells, “Stop the bleeding” and Granger yells back, “Stop the shooter.” Touché, Granger.

- I really love how the episodes usually end with a team scene, whether they’re talking together or celebrating their win. Their toast with tequila was a great wrap-up for “Black Wind.” I wish I could end my work day every day like they do!



What did you think of "Black Wind?" Is it easy for you to pick your favorite part? Join our show discussion in the comments below.


About the Author - Tonya Papanikolas
Tonya Papanikolas is a entertainment journalist who loves covering her favorite TV shows, including "NCIS: Los Angeles." (She's a big fan of Kensi and Deeks!) She spent more than 10 years as a broadcast news anchor/reporter and now does everything from hosting to writing. She writes reviews and feature articles for SpoilerTV on a ton of great shows.

23 comments:

  1. Do you think that cactus story was meant for them?

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  2. This episode was my favorite kind of NCISLA episode. All of the main characters had their moments to shine and there was plenty of humor as well. I also liked the scene where Sam and Callen talked about surviving the Mexican prison. Sam's ribbing Callen about it was particularly funny because we all know Sam would never let Callen starve anywhere. I loved the food truck scenes as well. I also enjoyed how invested Deeks was in helping Alejandro and his family. We don't always get to see that side of Deeks and it was nice. On a side note, did you notice the scene where Deeks tells Kensi "to the batmobile" and then the scene immediately cuts to Chris O'Donnell sitting in a car? Somehow I don't think that was an accident of editing. I found it quite humorous.

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  3. That's a good question. I don't know if Hetty necessarily intended it for them, but I felt like the writers did. And I noticed on the CBS website, little prompts come up with the video, and the prompt with that scene said something like, "Is Deeks or Kensi the cactus or the flower? Weigh in." CBS employees who wrote that made it seem like the whole analogy was definitely intended for them.

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  4. So true - all the characters really did have their moments to shine. I love that, too! And yes, it was nice to see that side of Deeks, wasn't it? Oh my gosh, I didn't notice the editing you mentioned. That is hilarious! I remember hearing Deeks say "to the batmobile," which I found amusing, but I didn't notice what came next. I love that you noticed that! Thanks for sharing. Great fun!

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  5. The writers seem to be on a roll this season. This was really, really good. The case was interesting, the team was in fine form, lots of great moments. Sam and Callen were hilariously awesome, as usual. No way Sam would let Callen starve in prison - he'd bust him out first chance he got. Also, nice to know Jo's still around. :)
    I completely agree with you about the Densi bits. It really feels very natural, and clearly their personal relationship hasn't negatively affected their working relationship at all. I loved how Deeks completely casually said, "This is why you should never fall in love," and Kensi didn't even blink. I don't know if they've actually said "I love you" yet, but it's pretty obvious they know. Oh, and Kensi actually said touché correctly this time!
    I loved Granger in this one. He may act like an old curmudgeon, but he's really a good guy. He totally earned that hug.
    I would have liked to see a bit more of Eric and Nell too, but oh well. Maybe next week.

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  6. Hi Tonya, great reviewas always. I'm back and this time is to stay...Unfortunately have not had opportunity to see the episode this week yet, but I will comment in accordance with what I read in your review.The first thing I want to say is that I found hilarious to see Sam and Callen cooking in the food truck!I never imagined see them in this situation!!!
    I think beyond Sam and Callen, this episode also had excellent scenes for Kensi and Deeks.I can not stop thinking about the fact that they are so cute and funny when they are together!!!!t's so good to see them express themselves in a more open way. It seems that the old communication problems are being overcome.I think this sixth season is being very good in every aspect and I just hope the rest of the season is as good as they have been so far!! And thats all for this week... Byee ☺

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  7. Excellent review. It was really enjoyable episode to watch. Humor and action in this show are just great. I really don't have anything to add about review. You covered everything so good job. :D

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  8. i guess the episode was kind of good, but it's hard for me to enjoy when I hear them talking Spanish, because it doesn't sound right. I mean the American characters do their best with a foreign language, but the ones that are sipposedly from Mexico... the accent might be right but the expressions are so weird, as if someone just directly translated English sentences without thinking how it is actually said in Spanish. With so many Spanish speaking people in the area I don't get why these kind of things aren't made better. It just takes out all the fun.

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  9. Hey! Thanks for your great comments, Stephanie. I totally agree - the writers have been on a roll! And you're so right about what would happen if Callen were in prison - Sam would totally bust him out. It IS great to know Jo is still around. I love how you mention Kensi didn't even blink at Deeks' love comment. It's so great! Yeah, they know they love each other. ;) So cute. Oh - and Granger really did earn that hug!

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  10. Oh, that's interesting. I didn't realize the translations were not really how native Spanish-speakers would talk. Thanks for telling us. I could see why that would be annoying. Shoot. Hope that changes if they go to Mexico again. We want you to enjoy the show as much as possible! Thanks for commenting!

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  11. Thanks for your nice words, Mario. I'm glad you enjoyed the episode and the review! It really was a fun one to watch. I like being spoiled like this! Haha. NCISLA certainly does offer great humor and action! Thanks so much for leaving your comments. Much appreciated!

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  12. Hi Catarina!! Thanks. Great to have you back. :) You're so cute that you read my review before you saw the episode! Haha. I know you will love the episode! Yes, that food truck scene is great. And there were definitely some great moments for Kensi and Deeks! I totally agree - they are so cute and funny together!! I love that those old communication problems are being overcome. That's a great point! Yes, let's hope the rest of the season continues like it's been going. We love it! Bye :)

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  13. I really enjoyed the episode, as I'm a major fan of Sam and Callen and their always amusing repartee.

    I still think Granger looks like a frail old man and having him in the field is ridiculous. He looks like he'd break if anyone knocked him down.

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  14. Their truck was called fast GRINGOS so they weren't pretending to be Mexican. Having them speak Spanish like a gringo would be acceptable.

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  15. As Aaronia explained ...his complaint was not with how Sam & G spoke Spanish...it was in regards to how the people who were supposedly from Mexico in the episode spoke Spanish.

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  16. Thanks for helping to clarify my comments. That's exactly what I meant.

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  17. Terrific review Tonya...glad to read that you really enjoyed the episode!

    I also found the episode funny & entertaining!

    One of my favorite scenes was when the Mexican female agent.popped out of the bathroom in her robe!! Dios Mio!!!

    lol I liked how G...kept his eyes mostly trained on her face..while Sam..the ladies man... made sure to take advantage of his lowered position while holding Mauricio down on the bed...to look her up & down!

    The Densi stuff was great and I was pleasantly surprised to hear Deeks say..."This is why you should never fall in love.” and by the looks Densi shared with each other as Hetty was telling her cactus love story.

    The only thing that I would have would have loved to have seen..was a little PDA Densi action.

    I'm not talking about an actual hug or anything that showy or big while their at work.....just a small scene...lasting maybe a few seconds at most...of a.touching of the arm or back,,,,.demonstrating their love and care for one another...supporting their new status.

    A perfect chance to show something like that...would have been when Kensi was trying to cheer Deeks up while he was upset about the young kid being deported....and when Deeks & Kensi were standing next to each other at the end of the show.

    Alas...as I've said before....the showrunners have continually demonstrated in the 6 seasons they have been on the air...that they are far more comfortable & eager to show graphic violence & torture etc.....than scenes of actual affection or endearment between two of their most popular characters.

    Anyway...I'm looking forward to the episode on Feb 23..."Expiration Date" written by Dave Kalstein & showcasing the return of Thapa ..who was.last seen in The Frozen Lake episode!

    The press release from CBS..mentions that Kensi and Deeks have their first official argument ....so Im curious what's the cause of the argument and how they resolve it.

    Im guessing Thapa comes to Densi's rescue...with some wise words of Gurkha wisdom... for both of them!

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  18. No problem buddy...glad to be of some help!

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  19. In which case, my apologies. I misread that part.

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  20. That makes sense, Catarina. Glad I can help keep you informed and understanding what is going on with your favorite series. I'm so glad you come read the reviews and leave your comments! Sorry you can't find a version without regional blocks. That must be frustrating!

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  21. Sam and Callen do have great repartee! Granger definitely isn't as strong as the rest of the team. Lucky for him, they all back him up. :) Thanks for your comments.

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  22. Ah ha, you liked that Mexican female agent in her robe, huh? I could see how you would! ;) I actually didn't catch that Sam looked her up and down. That's funny. I'm not sure if we're going to get much PDA Densi action. But we'll see. :) Small actions like you mention would be nice. That Feb. 23 episode sounds intriguing. I, too, am curious about this first official argument. Can't wait to see what's coming. Thanks, Owen.

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  23. lol Tonya.. just like George Washington...I cannot tell a lie...so si amiga... did indeed like seeing that agent!


    It's very cold where I live....so I appreciate anything and anyone..that helps in anyway....to warm things up around here! lol ;)


    As for the PDA Densi actiony.....like yourself..I have serious doubts we will any of it...but it sure would be a nice change!


    Humbug was episode 11..and next week is episode 15...and apart from Deeks saying.." And thats why you should never fall in love!".on Monday's episode....their has been virtually ...no other visible or verbal clues..that anything has really changed or happened with Deeks & Kensi.


    Im also hoping that the events talked about in that press release for the Feb 23 episode.....show Densi fans...some tangible evidence..than things are indeed very different now between Deeks & Kensi...even if their just shown arguing..


    I;ll take anything at this point in the season..that tells me...their "all in" moment..wasn't just a one and done.type of thing... as far as the show runners are concerned.,

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