NCISLA Case Briefing: “Command & Control” (S7E4)

NCISLA Case Briefing: Command & Control (S7E4)
“Command & Control” – Callen and Sam are forced to work on their day off when they mysteriously receive a cell phone and the caller threatens the lives of innocent people if they don’t do exactly what he says, on the 150th episode of NCIS: LOS ANGELES, Monday, Oct. 12 (9:59-11:00 PM, ET/PT), on the CBS Television Network. Written by: Kyle Harimoto| Directed by: Terrence O’Hara

It’s a seemingly lovely day off for the team to enjoy sunny Los Angeles. Or not. Nope. Definitely not. In a storyline similar to the “Die Hard” franchise (what is it with this show and “Die Hard”?! Memories of “Spiral” anyone?) and the movie, “Cellular” (that features a supporting role by our own Eric Christian Olsen), someone has targeted Sam and Callen to be instruments of their evil bidding.

The senior agents are tasked with obeying the demands of their faceless master- and quickly as innocent lives hang in the balance. Who or what group of people might be endangered? Were they pinpointed for a specific reason? Likewise, does this also apply to Callen and/or Sam? Is this a demonstration of power by a fanatic or possibly the return of an agent’s past nemesis?

On the topic of the past, a quick review of the guest star list (something sure to be investigated in Tess’s “Classified Preview”) recalls the delightfully bizarre Tyler Brunson from “Three Hearts” (S5E21). Based on last names it’s easy to foresee a connection to the forceful caller who is in full control of the day’s events. How much of that past operation might relate to the present events? Who is truly in “command & control” of the current-day happenings?

Speaking of last names, the NCIS:LA Family does just that by including more of their own. Chris O’Donnell’s wife, Caroline, returns- this time in a credited role. Keen viewers may recall a brief shot of Mrs. O’Donnell and her friends in the background of a scene from “Wanted”, an episode that had Chris working both sides of the camera pulling double-duty as director. The family expands to include the youngest of the O’Donnell clan with little Maeve!

With the guys cut off from their comm and tech support of the Ops Center, similar to that in “Merry Evasion”, how will they out-smart the criminal they seek while ensuring the safety of innocents? The seasoned agents will surely apply their well-honed wisdom along with some expected creativity. Regardless, it’s definitely going to require a “full-court press” by the entire team! How will Nell and Eric surely obtain key information and be able to keep the guys up-to-date? How will Kensi and Deeks provide physical support? Might the long-term experiences of Granger and Hetty serve as a key assist in proclaiming victory over evil?

With the connection to a major player from “Three Hearts”, Deeks and Kensi are likely reminded of an operation filled with as many personal repercussions as professional ones. (Luckily we’re able to avoid the faux stories and cryptic metaphors of Agent Angelo. Maybe?) Might the strengthening ‘ship be reminded of the potential barriers that lie ahead?

Deeks’ Week: Well, we already know the poor guy just lost a coveted day off, perhaps one intended to be spent with his personally blossoming Fern. What plans might now be frustratingly postponed? Could Deeks’ often creative tactics solve the communication challenge between Ops and the guys? What memories (and likely concerns) might arise in realizing Mr. Brunson has returned as a target in their investigation- again?! This guy’s like a growing rotten spot in a delightful piece of fruit. Maybe if Deeks had a good knife in which to cut it out… (Can you believe I went there with Deeks and the knife?! Shame on me!) How do you think Deeks will react to the threat that’s splintered their team- and brought yet another troubling memory from his past to the present?

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Gayle H. is a contributor at wikiDeeks.com. Follow her on Twitter: @DensiLand