Two months ago, I was on a crazy Criminal Minds marathon. I rewatched and finished eight seasons in about 4-5 weeks. So, I'm very very happy when Criminal Minds Season 9 was released just a few days ago and I watched it yesterday! Before this, the show had released several teasers for fans so that they know what they can expect in this season. Read all about it here (link).. So much rewards for long-term fans in-terms of story line! So excited :P

Anyway, I have this random thought of posting a review of the new episodes every Saturday... so... let's see if I can keep this up :P



Low quality video :( Sorry, but this is the best I could find on Youtube lol.


Episode 1 Review (Spoiler ahead!)



Image source: (link)


The episode started off with JJ and Morgan in a car chase and a lorry was heading their way...and...flashback begins. In this episode, we learnt that Hotch has too much to do - paperwork AND staying active in the field. He's still deciding whether to take over as BAU's Section Chief (since Strauss died in the Season 8 episode finale, the seat is now vacant) and he would have more time to spend with Jack but he won't be on the field with his team.


Image source: (link)


The first episode of the season is on cannibalism (obsession with the praying mantis, as deciphered by Reid) coupled with ritualistic kills.. not the first on the show. I would admit this though - the portrayal of cannibalism in this episode was more...scary? The unsub was having some hallucinations about his crush and in one of the scenes she was seen moving around the room like spiderman (the posing and walking on ceilings).. Err...


Image source: (link)


I was wondering why the unsub's mother was so familiar..and so I googled and found out it was a guest appearance by Camryn Manheim. I recognised her from the Ghost Whisperer. Apparently, critics are very fond of her performance and thought her character was underused. Maybe more next week?

Anyway, the episode ends in a cliffhanger! If I had not mistaken, this is the very first time the BAU made a mistake for getting the wrong guy! The ending quote by Hotch explains it all : Josh Billings once wrote, "There are two things in life for which we are never truly prepared: twins."

I'd like to see more of the team but most of the screen time was given to the unsub instead. I would think it's because the producers wanted to build a solid storyline to play with for Part 2. Can't wait for the next episode and the rest of the season cause I'd really want to learn more stories on the team ; )