Criminal Minds

In the absence of the fantastic Grey’s Anatomy, which undoubtedly is the best show on television these days, a show of similar engrossing possibility and excellent writing was needed, enter Criminal Minds. Being a fan of the original C.S.I. and Bones and also knowing how spin-offs such as CSI: Miami, can ruin a good thing, I was of course sceptical to add another crime/evidence solving show to my list of viewing. Criminal Minds did not disappoint.

Criminal Minds is based on the idea of preventing the unsub (unknown subject) from continuing their serial criminal behaviour. As such, the show centres around understanding the mind of the offender through profiling and victimology and not solely focusing on what evidence is left behind. It is crime prevention rather than simply the retracing of evidence, that makes Criminal Minds so dynamic and exciting.

The show is about the B.A.U., Behaviour Analysis Group of the F.B.I., played by a wonderfully varied cast : Jason Gideon, a hugely experienced profiler, a rock, a man of infinite wisdom and insight; Dr. Spencer Reid, a 24 year old with multiple doctorates who’s academic IQ way out numbers his social IQ; JJ, the group’s liaison who deals with publicity and all the other red tape encountered; Derek Morgan, an obsessive crimes expert and hottie; Penelope Garcia, the group’s tech whiz and Elle Greenway a sex crimes expert. The team is lead by former prosecutor now Special Agent, Aaron Hotchner, a by the book, never tie-less, family man. The show is careful to be all about the case, yet gives enough insight into the characters that over time, we learn to respect and care for them. This graceful characterisation is a breath of fresh air in television.

Each episode opens and closes with a quote, employs a music selection only outdone by the magnificence of the Grey’s music supervisor, and above all, manages to present a scenario or story every week, that’s never been done before. Coupled with the unapologetic intelligence of the material, the lack of pretension, relatable characters and innovative approach to solving crime, it’s no surprise that the show continues to both draw and retain viewers week to week.

If you’re looking for a smart, involving, crime based show, look no further.