I didn’t have a chance to get a review in before the holidays, so this isn’t very timely, but thought I’d throw it in anyway before the season resumes.
Overall, I thought this was one of the stronger episodes of the season. The case had enough unusual elements (the fruit, DNA masking, etc.) to hold my interest and the writers did a good job with the character work, giving all some meaningful scenes and even throwing in a few pairings that we don’t see frequently (Stella/Angell, Danny/Adam).
It’s especially refreshing to see two strong women like Stella and Angell working together on an ongoing case and I hope to see more of that pairing (although I have a bad feeling about where their investigation may lead).
As promising as the forbidden fruit case seemed, however, I have to take points away for the resolution. The killer’s motive didn’t seem strong or deep enough to result in such a hateful and horrible murder. And additional points off as well for the Lindsay demonstration scene. A few seasons back this type of thing might’ve been cute given that Lindsay and Danny seemed to be competing for Mac’s attention and good will, but if writers are remaking Lindsay’s character, they might consider upping her professionalism as well. It’s great that Mac reminded her that he’s the boss and she shouldn’t be wasting his time with these shenanigans, but next time, maybe he shouldn’t fold like a rug and end up humoring Lindsay anyway.
Moving on, I thought the Danny/Linsday scene worked well, but like others, I found myself distracted by the notion that in the space of one episode, she progressed from an early stage pregnancy (which apparently was not visible to anyone) to one that is advanced enough that they can feel the baby kicking. That said, I’m glad the writers are moving this storyline along and not subjecting the audience to numerous congratulatory scenes or angst about the marriage issue.
Re: the Mac/Ella storyline, it didn’t squick me out as much as expected – probably because both actors did a good job with the material, especially the scene in the supermarket. Mac had just the right air of polite wariness and Ella, an air of “forced” naturalness. The one false note in the whole scenario was the ending, when Mac rushed over to Ella’s apartment and carried her out like a knight in shining armor. Surely, a seasoned detective like Mac would call in to central dispatch so the nearest police and EMT unit could respond, but I guess they needed the dramatic effect and a way to reinforce Ella’s obsession. I’m curious to see where they are going with this and whether Mac will now stay as far away from Ella as possible (since he should realize now that she has an unhealthy fixation) or will continue to be involved in some way because he feels responsible and/or guilty. Either way, no good is likely to come of this one.
Nor will the Greek coin storyline end well, I fear. It seems a bit OOC for Stella to be so obsessed with this particular case and the only way her reaction works for me is if it’s supposed to be a cumulative effect from her experiences with Frankie, Drew, etc. Also, despite the toughness, I’ve always seen Stella as more of a nurturer/protector, so it doesn’t really fit that she would involve Angell while keeping her in the dark about Mac’s order. But if that’s where the writers are heading, it will certainly put some tarnish on Stella’s character.
It will be interesting to see the effect on Mac and Stella’s relationship as well. I think Mac and Stella both take certain things for granted in their relationship. Mac seems to expect Stella’s unconditional support, personally and professionally, but doesn’t always respond in kind, especially when it comes to emotional support. On the other hand, Stella doesn’t always acknowledge Mac’s role as her boss and take account of the difficult position he is in professionally when she pushes the boundaries. And interestingly enough, they each enable these behaviors in the other. Cases in point: Mac commends Stella for bending the rules and finding a way to keep Adam around; meanwhile, Stella turns down Mac’s offer of a room after her apartment burns down.
This situation could lead to some interesting character work for both Mac and Stella, but in a crime series like this one, the writers may not be able and/or willing to delve too deeply into this type of character drama. Either way, I am looking forward to a showdown (hopefully, well written) between these two where all the frustrations finally come out.
I do wonder if the writers had Mac order Stella to stand down so there can be some official consequences for her actions. It’s possible Stella could be suspended and even demoted if the case ends badly. And if the writers really want to extend the arc, she could possibly be reassigned as a homicide detective. That way, some of season six could be devoted to seeing how Mac and the team function without Stella and then finding a way to bring her back and rebuild the relationships. We’ll see how it unfolds.
As for this episode, I think it accomplished what it needed to do – entertained for an hour and set up some intriguing storylines which peaked my interest in the second half of the season.
Grade = B+
