Criminal Minds: The Must-Watch Crime Series

As one of the most fascinating and captivating crime series of all time, Criminal Minds has captured the attention of audiences worldwide. In this post, we’ll take an in-depth look at the show’s intriguing world of psychological profiling, intense crime-solving, and unforgettable characters. Join us as we explore what makes Criminal Minds a must-watch for any fan of the crime genre.

Criminal Minds: Overview

Criminal Minds is a fascinating, fast-paced, and authoritative crime series that has captivated audiences worldwide. Centered around a team of FBI profilers known as the Behavioral Analysis Unit, the show takes viewers on an intriguing journey through the minds of both the criminals and the investigators who are trying to catch them. With its high-stakes cases, expertly crafted characters, and unique focus on psychological profiling, Criminal Minds is a must-watch for any fan of the crime genre.

Criminal Minds is a crime series that centers around a team of FBI profilers known as the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). Led by special agent Aaron Hotchner (Thomas Gibson), the team works to solve complex cases and catch some of the most dangerous criminals in the country. The show is known for its thrilling cases, intricate character development, and intense action.

Each episode of Criminal Minds follows the BAU as they investigate a new case. The team uses their expertise in criminal psychology and behavior analysis to get inside the minds of the criminals and predict their next move. From serial killers to kidnappers to terrorists, the BAU has seen it all and is always ready for the next challenge.

The cast

Here are some fun facts about the cast members that you might not know yet:

• A. J. Cook (Jennifer “JJ” Jareau) previously appeared in the TV series Higher Ground and the film Final Destination 2.
• Adam Rodriguez (Luke Alvez) is best known for his role as Eric Delko on CSI: Miami.
• Aisha Tyler (Dr. Tara Lewis) is not only an actress, but also a comedian, director, and talk show host. She was also Dr. Charlie Wheeler in FRIENDS, who was Joey’s girlfriend and became Ross Geller’s girlfriend around Season 9.
• Daniel Henney (Matt Simmons) previously appeared in the Korean dramas My Lovely Sam Soon and Spring Waltz. He also appeared in X-Men Origins: Wolverine and Big Hero 6.
• Jeanne Tripplehorn (Alex Blake) is best known for her roles in the films Basic Instinct and The Firm.
• Jennifer Love Hewitt (Kate Callahan) is also a singer-songwriter and has released several albums throughout her career. She was the lead actress in Ghost Whisperer and The Client List.
• Joe Mantegna (David Rossi) is a prolific actor who has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including The Godfather Part III and The Simpsons.
• Kirsten Vangsness (Penelope Garcia) has also appeared in the spin-off series Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior.
• Lola Glaudini (Elle Greenaway) is best known for her role as Deborah Ciccerone-Waldrup on The Sopranos.
• Mandy Patinkin (Jason Gideon) has won multiple Tony Awards for his work on Broadway, and is also known for his roles in the films The Princess Bride and Yentl.
• Matthew Gray Gubler (Dr. Spencer Reid) is also a director, and has directed many episodes of Criminal Minds. He also wrote another book which is launching in September this year!
• Paget Brewster (Emily Prentiss) has appeared in numerous TV shows, including Friends and Community. She was Joey’s girlfriend Kathy, who eventually became Chandler’s girlfriend.
• Shemar Moore (Derek Morgan) previously appeared in the soap opera The Young and the Restless.
• Thomas Gibson (Aaron Hotchner) is best known for his role as Greg Montgomery on the sitcom Dharma & Greg. He was also part of Chicago Hope, Dr. Danny Nyland.

Why did I start watching Criminal Minds?

It started when I finished rewatching the entire Bones series on Disney+ and was looking for another crime or procedural series. I scrolled down the platform and stumbled upon Criminal Minds. At first, I was hesitant to watch because it wasn’t watched by most of my friends or recommended by the TV Time app. Later on, I found out that one of my friends is also watching the series!

Then, that was the time that I decided to start watching the series. At first, I was not excited about it, but after two episodes, I caved in! I was clearly hooked! It got me to a point that I researched about the entire series, the different plots for every season it has. Lastly, I also checked if until when it was last aired. Furthermore, I looked into some information about the cast, where are they now, and if there are spin-offs or other productions related to the original series.

So, moving forward, here are my thoughts.

My review of Criminal Minds

I said in my title that it’s a must-watch because it definitely is! I did not expect that a crime series would give me so much interest, curiosity that would lead me to taking down handwritten notes and even create theories on how the episodes and series will play out. Likewise, I’m impressed about how the writers worked on creating a bigger story that weaves right into every episode.

In every episode, you meet a new “UnSub” or defined as an unidentified subject. The term is widely used throughout the series, and I got used to listening and using that term whenever I would watch a new episode or even listen to true crime videos on YouTube or podcasts. The UnSubs are the antagonists in every episode or even throughout the season.

With the cast, I believe that they have good chemistry. It’s sad that some left the show before the entire series ended. But I trust that the writers and the actors have excellent reasons for that. Some episodes in the entire series were either directed by one of the actors, like A. J. Cook, Matthew Gray Gubler, or Thomas Gibson. It’s really so amazing that actors direct. Back then, I used to think that actors and actresses alike only study their roles or characters. But what I love their craft, they become chameleons. They learn new skills that help their careers, just like us.

Oh, I remember one episode that Matthew Gray Gubler directed. It gave the right combination of mysticism and science that left me flabbergasted at how that episode turned out. I gave it high ratings on TV Time because I was amazed with the storytelling and how it was directed overall. Moreover, I hope that he will have more directing projects in the future.

Favorite characters in mind?

The ones that come to mind first are:

• SSA Aaron Hotchner
• SSA Jennifer Jareau
• Dr. Spencer Reid
• Penelope Garcia
• SSA Derek Morgan
• SSA Matt Simmons

I love the chemistry of all the actors portraying the characters, but Aaron Hotcher stood out because he balances the comical events with his serious looks. Plus, he has such a lovely voice that I think I hear in my sleep occasionally!

On the other hand, I love the comical banter between Derek and Penelope. It is usually spread out through the series, and you’ll never expect it to happen. Hotchner’s serious look and aura contrasts the light and comedic banter that Derek and Penelope have. It’s something that cannot be matched in the series when new actors came in to the series.

As an Asian, I love that the series wrote in an Asian American character, found in SSA Matt Simmons. It feels so great to be represented and see the diversity and inclusion in a Western series. SSA Matt Simmons first appeared in the crossover with Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders. Daniel Henney’s acting was really superb. It’s refreshing to see an oppa in a Western series!

Criminal Minds and other series?

Another aspect that I like about this series, you get a glimpse on how people become killers, let alone serial killers. Aside from the other crime series or productions you watch on Netflix, this is different. It gives an analytical side that rationalizes and studies the triggers or behaviors of different criminals. I know the criminals did unspeakable things, but it’s also nice to know how they arrived at that state of mind.

From the other crime or procedural series that I’ve watched, this is the first I encountered that explored the behavioral aspect of every criminal or suspect. I admit, there are still other crime series out there that I haven’t watched, but I know this series stood out to me differently. Aside from the different ways of storytelling, it gave me a 360-degree take on each of the character or the series in general.

Criminal Minds and Bones

It’s a lot different even though there are similar elements like catching bad guys, the FBI, and solving crimes. Bones focuses on forensic anthropology as one of the main ways to pinpoint the bad guy. That means, the scientists or squints in the Jeffersonian use their knowledge and expertise to assist Agent Booth and the FBI solve the crimes.

On the other hand, Criminal Minds explores the behavioral aspect of the criminals. Analyzing their movement, location, and patterns to help catch the UnSub. It uses findings from the medical examiners or coroners, but heavily uses thinking patterns. It also involves connecting to history or even copycats from old cases.

I’d say that both Aaron Hotchner and Seeley Booth are similar as they have a son, excellent snipers, love their families so much, and do an excellent job as FBI agents.

Criminal Minds and NCIS

Ah, this is an interesting study. I’ve seen NCIS and currently on its Season 20. NCIS focuses on naval crimes and has some collaboration with the FBI, but not very often. It doesn’t usually rely on the behavioral pattern of the suspect, but on the concrete evidence or testimonials from witnesses. There are very peculiar aspects to NCIS that, like Ducky’s character, who’s been present since the first episode. I also love the diversity in the cast, since they’ve cast different actors of various descent.

Both belong to almost the same genre that tackle cases in different ways. I would say that Aaron Hotchner and Leroy Jethro Gibbs are similar, they both are exceptional snipers. Penelope Garcia and Timothy McGee are similar because they’re both geniuses and know their way with technology.

Negative thoughts?

I think I do. There’s no such thing as a perfect series, but Criminal Minds has its low points too. Some characters’ exits were underwhelming, or I expected more from the series itself. Honestly, I was sad and disappointed how Aaron Hotchner’s character was written out of the series, given the fact that Thomas Gibson was removed from the series. I think, there was only one character that was given the best exit. Who, if you ask? I won’t spill it because that may be a spoiler!

On the other hand, there were some episodes that didn’t give me all the sparks and glitter. I think all series have that moment, and also it depends on the viewer also, right?

Final thoughts

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

After watching all 15 seasons of Criminal Minds, I can confidently say that it is a must-watch crime series that I highly recommend to anyone. The show’s ability to combine intense crime-solving with complex character development is truly remarkable. It’s a rare feat to find a series that can keep you on the edge of your seat while also giving you insight into the minds of both criminals and law enforcement.

As I reflect on my time watching Criminal Minds, I can’t help but feel grateful for the unforgettable journey it took me on. The show not only entertained me, but it also challenged me to think critically about the psychology behind criminal behavior.

Overall, if you’re looking for a thrilling, thought-provoking series to add to your watch list, I wholeheartedly recommend Criminal Minds.

P.S. I’m currently on Season 16!

So, will you give Criminal Minds a chance? Please let me know your thoughts! 💖

References:

1. “Why Thomas Gibson Was Fired From Criminal Minds” by Danny Salemme, Screen Rant [[https://screenrant.com/criminal-minds-thomas-gibson-fired-hotch-exit/]]
2. “Criminal Investigative Analysis: Practitioner Perspectives, Part One of Four” by John H. Campbell, Law Enforcement Bulletin [[https://leb.fbi.gov/articles/featured-articles/criminal-investigative-analysis-practitioner-perspectives-part-one-of-four]]
3. “Psychology of Crime: Understanding the Minds of Criminals” by Maryville University [[https://online.maryville.edu/online-bachelors-degrees/forensic-psychology/resources/psychology-of-crime/]]
4. “The Shows Fans Think Are Most Similar To Criminal Minds” by Michelle Regalado, Looper [[https://www.looper.com/628770/the-shows-fans-think-are-most-similar-to-criminal-minds/]]
5. “10 Crime Shows Like Criminal Minds To Watch Next (And Even During The Revival)” by Chris E. Hayner, TV Guide [[https://www.tvguide.com/news/crime-shows-like-criminal-minds-watch-next-revival/]]
6. “7 TV Shows Like Criminal Minds” by Lauren Garafano, Decider [[https://decider.com/2021/01/07/7-tv-shows-like-criminal-minds/]]
7. “Criminal Minds Wiki” [[https://criminalminds.fandom.com/wiki/Criminal_Minds_Wiki]]
8. “Matthew Gray Gubler and Daniel Henney Are Returning to Criminal Minds” by Selena Barrientos, Country Living [[https://www.countryliving.com/life/entertainment/a42657360/criminal-minds-fans-matthew-gray-gubler-daniel-henney-return/]]