The recent episode of NCIS Origins marked its return after a winter break and it put a spotlight on a character many viewers are finding captivating: young Mike Franks. This prequel series explores the early days of Leroy Jethro Gibbs but Episode 11 took a different route.
NCIS Origins Takes a Turn by Concentrating on Mike Franks in Episode 11 Flight of Icarus
For many who followed the original NCIS series Gibbs was a central figure. Even with Mark Harmon's departure and Gary Cole's arrival as Alden Parker some viewers still miss the original lead. NCIS Origins was expected to fill this gap by showcasing Gibbs' initial days at NIS. However a different character is grabbing attention.
The NCIS franchise is known for its spin-offs. NCIS Origins is unique as it goes back in time to explore the history of the established series. It shows Gibbs' younger years working with Mike Franks' team at Camp Pendleton. While the idea was interesting there were concerns about recasting Gibbs. Austin Stowell plays young Gibbs but some feel the choice for young Mike Franks is even more impactful.
Kyle Schmidt's Performance as Young Mike Franks Steals the Show in NCIS Origins Episode 11
NCIS Origins has largely centered on Gibbs' character development. Yet episode 11 titled "Flight of Icarus" demonstrated that Kyle Schmidt as young Mike Franks is a standout. The episode delves into Franks' character using his worn-out boots as a focal point and includes flashbacks to his past. Interestingly Gibbs has a minimal presence in this episode but "Flight of Icarus" is considered a strong point in NCIS Origins' current season.
Although Mike Franks was not a constant presence in NCIS his appearances were significant in understanding his personality and his bond with Gibbs.
Episode 11 highlights Schmidt's portrayal of Franks making it believable that he evolves into Muse Watson's version in the original NCIS. From the first set photos Schmidt looked like Franks and captured his essence. Episode 11 brings this to the forefront.
Why Mike Franks' Story in NCIS Origins Is Gaining More Traction Than Young Gibbs' Journey
This isn't to say Austin Stowell's portrayal of young Gibbs is lacking. He does capture some of Harmon's mannerisms. However this younger Gibbs feels quite different from the established character making it harder to see them as the same person. Conversely Schmidt's Franks is instantly recognizable as a younger version of Watson's Franks. This isn't a fault of Stowell or the writing but rather a challenge inherent in exploring Gibbs' past.
Episode 11 of NCIS Origins marks the first time Franks' history is explored and it leaves viewers wanting to know more.
Much of Gibbs' life story has already been covered in NCIS. This makes it feel like NCIS Origins is not presenting much new information regarding Gibbs. While expanding on Gibbs' past trauma is possible it might not sustain long-term interest. Franks however remained more of a mystery in NCIS. Even after his death he was still enigmatic. This offers fresh narrative possibilities for the spin-off and enriches the NCIS universe. Episode 11 provides the first glimpse into Franks' backstory and it is compelling.
NCIS Origins Should Capitalize on the Growing Appeal of Mike Franks' Character Moving Forward
Episode 11 is actually the second episode of NCIS Origins to explore a character beyond Gibbs. Earlier an episode focused on Randy Randolf and his challenges as a new father balancing work demands. That episode connected to Gibbs' family history by revealing Randy's hidden link to Kelly and Shannon's murder. Franks' episode on the other hand is purely about him.
Looking ahead there is interest in exploring Franks' character further in ways NCIS did not. This could involve examining his past before joining NIS or his relationship with Tish. There is ample material to explore. Since NCIS Origins doesn't technically have a single lead character perhaps Gibbs and Franks could share that role. It's even conceivable that in the future Harmon and Muse Watson could appear together in supernatural-like conversations between their characters.
Episode 11 provided flashbacks to Franks' early life showing his recruitment and his brother's decision to join him in Vietnam. In the present timeline Franks deals with wearing sneakers while his boots are being repaired. Meanwhile Lala shows signs of being bothered by Randy trying to set Gibbs up on a date.
Showrunners Gina Lucita Monreal and David J. North discussed the episode and hinted at future developments. The boots are central to Franks' character and the idea of him without them for a day led to exploring his backstory. The episode's music including Bob Dylan's songs was also a deliberate choice to enhance Franks' narrative.
Schmidt's discomfort playing Franks without his boots was intentional and contributed to his performance. Franks' brother is an important part of his history and will be revisited. This episode is just the beginning of Franks' backstory exploration.
While Randy gives up on setting Gibbs up Lala is still present. The showrunners aim to keep Gibbs' romantic life grounded and realistic given his past losses. The chemistry between Gibbs and Lala is noticeable but Gibbs is hesitant due to his emotional state. They are proceeding cautiously episode by episode while staying within established NCIS canon.
The storyline of Lala and her background will be further developed this season. Gibbs' mental health is also being addressed with his interest in a veteran support group. This will continue to be explored in future episodes possibly leading to Gibbs' boat-building hobby seen in the original series.
A significant change is coming for Franks and his personal life but details are being kept secret for now. The relationship between Franks and Tish is valued for its balance and depth. It will be further examined in the latter part of the season.
More scenes between Gibbs and Randy are expected as their dynamic provides lighthearted moments and humor that are true to the original NCIS style. Randy's character is important for maintaining this balance.
Operation Sundown is a mysterious element that will impact all team members. Vera's work with Bugs and the presence of a second sniper suggest potential danger for her and the entire team. Vera's profiling program and her relationship with Bugs will be further revealed. Everyone faces risk with the sniper threat.
Overall NCIS Origins episode 11 successfully shifted focus to Mike Franks providing a compelling backstory and making him a central figure to watch in the series. The exploration of his past adds a rich layer to the NCIS universe and offers fresh storylines.