NCIS: Origins Season 1, Episode 7 Review: ‘One Flew Over’ Delves Into Gibbs & Franks’ Bond
NCIS: Origins Season 1, Episode 7, “One Flew Over,” is another solid entry that dives deep into the dynamic between Leroy Jethro Gibbs and Mike Franks. The episode offers new insights into why Franks brought a damaged, troubled Gibbs onto his team in the first place. While Kyle Schmid’s performance has been foreshadowing this answer, it’s still gratifying to see it unfold.
What makes NCIS: Origins so compelling is its ability to bring familiar stories to life in a fresh way. We already know the broad strokes of Gibbs and Franks’ history, but this show fleshes out the details with a cast that makes you care about not just the plot, but the characters themselves.
When I first started watching, I appreciated that the show wasn’t just about Gibbs—but now I have to admit that the “Gibbs story” is just as captivating. In this episode, we see how Franks and Gibbs are two sides of the same coin. Franks understands Gibbs on a profound level, seeing in him both the pain and anger that mirrors his own. It’s no surprise that Franks was the one to reveal the truth about the man who killed Gibbs’ wife and daughter. Just as Franks can’t let go of his own past, Gibbs struggles to let go of his own demons, making both of their journeys all the more compelling.
The complexities of Franks’ decisions are evident, especially when he continues pursuing a personal vendetta that may backfire. His desire to avenge the wrongs in his life, even at the cost of others, sets him apart from Gibbs—who, with nothing left to lose, acts purely on instinct and the need for justice.
The episode concludes with a line that seems to encapsulate the essence of Gibbs’ transformation: “This is a story about her,” a reference to Lala. While their connection hints at something more than just a professional relationship, we’re left wondering about the depth of Lala’s role in Gibbs’ healing journey. Though we know it likely won’t lead to a romantic resolution, the bond between two broken souls, coming together to heal in their own way, offers hope for something more.
While a “happy ending” may not be in the cards, a “happy now” would be a welcome outcome—if we get to see it unfold for a while.
Agree or disagree? What did you think of NCIS: Origins Season 1, Episode 7, “One Flew Over”? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
NCIS: Origins airs Mondays at 10/9c on CBS.
