M.I.A.

This was a good episode, which is typical and is why this is such a long lasting series. I think they did a good job in furthering viewers understanding of Torres. What really caught my attention was the outstanding performance by Katherine Cunningham. Many actors do a fine job, but Katherine Cunningham just nailed her role playing Laura Ellison! I just had to publicly say this.

"They" being the writers, actors, director(s), creators and producers of this consistently outstanding show. Although I'm a long-time IMDB user (and rate numerous movies and TV shows), this is my first written contribution. By now I've seen the vast majority of NCIS episodes (as well as most of those from the various, also high-quality, spin-offs), but never have I rated ANY episode of ANY TV series a "10". Maybe it's late and I'm tired, but this was a particularly moving story, well-acted by the always-excellent regular cast and the guest stars (I've been a fan of John Finn in particular for many years). Don't miss this top-notch entry in the NCIS pantheon.

I gave the earlier review from evenhoused a "helpful" tick, but I think it deserves more than that. I think that evenhoused is exactly on the money. The script covers all that makes this such a successful series. The investigative segment of the story sort of takes a back seat here, but is still interesting, and although I had my suspicions from early on, the identity of the villain wasn't clear until near the end. Apart from the investigations, we had humour in the marathon training thread, and character development in the opening-up of Torres' backstory. However, the triumphant element here for me was the pathos of the main storyline, and the astonishingly sensitive performance of Katherine Cunningham. I lost a loved member of my family in a similar scenario. She was as brave as Lt Ellison is portrayed here. I wish hope and strength to all those in the same situation. Keep fighting. Semper pugnate!