David Caruso: Changing Face of CSI Miami

A few tagalong comments to add to those already published here, from fans and viewers expressing their appreciation, disappointments and concerns regarding Season 8 of "CSI Miami" and David Caruso's presence, or lack of same, as the leader of the pack.

Everyone is well aware of David's diminished onscreen frequency this Season. We pay little attention to minutes involved. We do, however, give all our attention to the significance of David's contribution to the storyline; e.g., was it a drop-in scene or an integral part of the whole? That's not a question we consider lightly.

We were surprised no one mentioned the absence of scenes pairing David's Horatio with Eddie Cibrian's Jesse for the vast majority of the season to date. Other than the first 2 episodes introducing Jesse, the remaining seven have featured David and Eddie together only once each in four of them, for mere seconds, and no shared scenes at all in the remaining three.

That, along with Jesse's exceptionally high profile in all his scenes, often usurping David's leadership, speaks volumes of the direction TPTB are heading. Even though not onscreen, there was always, in the past, the obvious acquiesence to the superior; e.g., "I'll call "H" or "H" needs to see this" or "Horatio's waiting for this". Those comments are largely absent this season as well.

Our perception is of a fragmented team without a leader. Yes, they've spent a tad more time onscreen together this year. Yet, aside from those moments, each member, or pair, goes off on their own, seemingly with no marching orders of the day and no requirement to report in with results to The LT.

On one of the boards, responding to complaint regarding Horatio's lack of presence this year, a commenter said (in dead seriousness), "This isn't the David Caruso or Horatio Caine show".

That poster is, or was, incorrect. "CSI Miami" has always been The David Caruso/Horatio Caine Show. David is the fibre that holds it together. To deny that simple fact will spell the demise of "CSI Miami".

Thanks so much for all the terrific comments. We hope the interested parties took advantage of the opportunity and read them all.

David Caruso: We have Opinions.....

Happy belated birthday to one of our regular contributing readers, Astraea. Hope it was a great one!
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We had so many good comments to our previous request, we just had to bring a sampling to our front page. We continue to be amazed at the number of readers who neglect the meatiest segment of this blog; our reader's comments and opinions. These folks are generally wittier, often more articulate, certainly bring a distinctive spin to the topic up for discussion.

mjszud said.................
...What's working? The team aspect -- I'm enjoying it to the fullest.
What's not working? The abundance of Jesse -- though I am fond of him, and eager to see where he goes, I don't actually need it to enjoy this show. I'd choose Horatio, Natalia, Ryan, and Frank over Jesse any day. That would be the second part to "what's not working" -- not enough of those characters I just mentioned above (save for Jesse)!
I guess that falls under what needs to be addressed as well -- just give me those characters, fresh storylines, and good cases, and I'll remain loyal.
I have Horatio action on my wishlist though -- he needs something this season!
As for the other characters - I like Walter & Tom both. Both have given something new & refreshing to the show, but I'd like for TPTB to settle in on who Walter is as far as his duty in the lab...is he a labrat, or a CSI?...
Calleigh - I am not ashamed to speak brutually of my dislike for her. She is another subject that falls under what isn't working.... She's no true portrayal of what a female lead should be; and to be honest, I'd rather see Horatio side by side with Natalia (not romantically) -- they ARE what's working and I'd love to see more of that! Bring on the rest of the season, I can finally say I'm looking forward to it!

Anonymous said...
Horatio's scene at Eric's bedside was another example of what a wonderful actor David is. I am glad TPTB give David some meaty scenes to sink his teeth into once in awhile.

Shelby said...
...I still think 3 ninety minute episodes alternating with each other would bring a breath of fresh air to the franchise and actually extend the life of the series. Regarding "Miami" specifically, only Emily and David will be left from the original when Adam leaves. The second grouping i.e. Frank, Ryan, and Natalia have become like bedroom slippers --- I am very comfortable with them as they wear well and fit in nicely with the others. The newbies I like, too. Christain Clemensen hasn't quite found his character but he's getting there. I like the simple demonstrations with the jello and the banana and am wondering just where he stores his lunch??? Walter refuses to be ignored. He seems to be the kind of soul who automatically thinks everyone is his friend and is self-assured rather than conceited....

Mandy said...
AS a UK viewer it is a bit difficult to comment.I did watch the first episode,probably the same way CC does,but find this method nerve wracking - worry about infecting the old PC! Loved the first show-it was a great idea to go back in time.This was a snappy and fresh start.
Have followed people's comments for the rest of the season. Jesse seems to be a problem for many. This is understandable if he has been pushed to the forefront too quickly but the hysteria on the official forum is unbelievable!..... Frank, Ryan & Natalia are all great characters played by good actors.I would like to see them all getting more screen time.
Don't know what's happening with Horatio but DC can make quite an impact with very little screen time!

Lindy said...
...I sense greater energy from David Caruso and am pleased that tptb have finally seen the light with the inclusion of that wonderful commodity: The Caruso Smile. 'T was moi who coined the phrase: a smile that could melt polar ice caps and thwart the efforts to stem global warming btw...
The inclusion of new team members has been reasonably refreshing. Walter and Tom are both amusing in their own way and carry off the humor quite well altho' Tom has a little way to go in clarifying whether he is an eccentric nerd or just childish geek. I prefer the former.
I would still like to see more of Natalia, Jonathan and Emily although it is a little crowded currently and more switches accross scenes to include all may be too confusing.
...In some ways I find his role as Jesse little wishy-washy, I have it in my head that Horatio will pass him the crown one day. Jesse has the credentials but I feel lacks the inner strength required, and that which has been shown by Horatio. He can't be a Horatio clone obviously but I am struggling to find the essence of Jesse. Perhaps over time ...
Horatio.... David Caruso. More energy, more involved. And and am I imagining greater inner ease?? Yet, with fewer scenes and NO ONE LINERS, and the HUMOR GIVEN TO OTHERS, I feel as tho' I should be enter the grieving process now so it won't be so difficult later....
...Please tptb, give David a share of the banter and humor, and the one-liners. They are unique to the legendry Horatio and we don't need to see that aspect diluted. Frank... I didn't mention him. Why? That says it all doesn't it! Frank is integral, a stand out... yet not enough of him either.

karonis2 said...
...The additions are enjoyable but they should be minor roles. Give us our established characters with good storylines. More, more, more of Horatio, Natalia, Frank, and Ryan.
I've given some thought to my dislike for Jesse. The obvious would be that they are giving him Horatio's lines as well as his caring nature.... But I just don't see him as a CSI. Perhaps a cop, like Frank.... I agree that the stories are much better, although I would like to see more stories that actually happen day to day in the life of CSI's. I've grown quite tired of solving the case in one day. There needs to be change...of day, clothes, etc. Come on who has a "party" at 7:30 in the morning?

Lynne said...
First, the phrase, "all good things must come to an end" comes to mind here. I can see the show, going in one of two directions. First, a series finale coming up sooner rather than later. Secondly, the show goes on with the new characters taking the lead over the more established ones.
...DC and the Eddie character. It is pretty clear that Eddie is at least, becoming H's second in command. Will he completely take over H's spot? Well, depends on several factors of course. The fact that DC has been in less scenes could be a hint of things to come....
Calleigh has changed over the years, which is not surprising. But I have come to like her less and less....
Ryan Wolfe/Jonathon Togo is probably the character I have the most trouble with. He seems to have multiple personalities from one season to the next the way the writers have him. His character is the most inconsistent of the group. First we see him as OCD, very meticulous, then later on he comes off as kind of a jerk, then he is kind of a bad guy, keeping things from the team, etc. It is a shame really.
Walter, I can only take in small doses. His walking encyclopedia bit grates on my nerves in large amounts, the way he spouts information constantly with the force of Old Faithful. They could do better with that character.
Jesse Cardoza, I dont have a real problem with, although, the fact Eddie Cibrian is in the tabs alot regarding his personal issues makes me wonder if that had something in part to do with his being hired. Publicity is publicity.
The new ME. I like him better than Tara Price, but with the exit of the lovely Ms. Khandi Alexander, he has impossible shoes to try and fill. He has no easy task...

Charlotte said...
...I really like when real media stories become material for the CSI:s, like with the investor who was fooling many, and found dead....
New ME, ok, Walter, think he will fit in and will never try to take over the CSIM. But Jesse is a threat, and a non-favourite: too good-looking, the Yt-vid with the towel-“dress” is still getting in the way. And TPTB writes him too much a good guy (just seen 8:4) to be real! Will he turn out to be false, with bad conscious? Or just bad? He can not be just goodlooking, smart and good! It’s not possible to live like that, it is just for princesses in fairytales! His “start” makes so many storylines impossible, that he was a working mate in Miami so long ago. 'Cause I want to see him be unveiled! (My apologize to the real Mr Cibrian.)
As most of You I wish for a plot besides the crime stories, that something will happen in HC:s life, with Kyle, and maybe Julia, or Yelina, does ever the cousins meet, Kyle and Ray Jr, Kyle and Madison? Something that follows from one epi to another or more. And I agree with Mandy, about DC!

Corpuschristie said...
...As for Miami...it's becoming a little dull for me. What has happened to the likable characters? DC is the show and it always has struggled when he steps back a little.
Cal was always robotic, but a likeable robot. Now she has about as much likeability as a checkout till. Jesse is OK but I just keep remembering Cibrian in the awful 'Invasion' show and expecting him to turn into a fish.
Ryan has always flipped between stupid and not quite so stupid but he has always been interesting and Togo is hilarious. La Rue is by far the best actress and I just wish Nat had more to do than be a piece of furniture. She should have a fling with Frank and that would give them both more screen time.
You know my feelings on Walter. He seems to have become the star of the show and he just annoys me....
I am hoping that the ME is going to be surrounded by a bunch of gators when he is working in the lab one night and given an ultimatum to leave and convince Khandi to return or be eaten for breakfast.

David Caruso: Progress at Season Midpoint

If you persevered through Thanksgiving with the family, including the obligatory disfunctionals, and came away relatively unscathed from the Black Friday melee, welcome back to the lesser significance of our trivialities.

In answer to the unasked, yes, for the first time, we succumbed, arriving at one local electronics store at 5:00 AM for a one-shot purchase. No, it wasn't Best Buy, WalMart, Toys R Us, or any mob-mentality riddled big box store. We walked in, grabbed our purchase, waited 1/2 hour to pay and beat it for the nearest latte fillup.

How did we luck out? Easy! The only one of the item they had left was in pink. Voila`! Perfect for an 11 year old girl; she with the birthday and Christmas just 2 days apart. She'll be thrilled with the camera; HOH was thrilled that it cost less than 1/2 today's price.

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Back to business here. As David Caruso and "CSI Miami" prepare to begin filming the second half of Season 8 episodes, perhaps now is a good time to review the first half. What's working? What isn't working? What needs to be addressed? What has continually been ignored? Which performance(s) deserves the accolades?

We get a few hundred visitors daily who read our blog, but only a smattering of those comment regularly. Thanks so much to those who contribute. We couldn't survive without them. On the other hand, we'd like to see what other readers are thinking, too.

David and his staff read his MS and FB pages routinely; however, those missives are 110% 'atta boy' comments or, worse, adulation and droolery. We've seen nothing of constructive critiques and, no, they don't delete the contrary comments; there simply aren't any. TPTB, from the show and from David's staff, read our blog, and probably others also, on a somewhat regular basis. Most of those blogs are punctuated with the oh's and ah's of the idolizing fan, with little or no input from the more objective viewer.

For starters, while we appreciate David's more sensitive side in evidence this season, we have to comment on the obvious drop-in scenes, nearly always separate and apart from the main theme. E.g.; David's scene at Eric's bedside was so separated from the script of that episode, it could've ended up on the editor's floor without causing a ripple in the flow. We prefer not to be constantly reminded that so many of these scenes are simply inserts to appease a specific segment of the viewing audience. Agree? Disagree?

Share your opinion. We, and TPTB, are looking for feedback.

Thanksgiving At Our House!

As we near the end of Thanksgiving Eve, our dinner preparations are on schedule. For those who are up to their elbows in these same tasks, we commiserate with you. To those whose Thursday is just another day, take this article for the useless piece of fluff that it's intended to be.

If you've been a longtime online friend, you know we are not, nor do we aspire to be, a gourmet cook. Kitchen duties are nearly always a chore to be accomplished with minimal effort and a modicum of success. Deli, carry-out and frozen entrees often share our table with the 'made from scratch' and usually win the popularity polls.

We break with that routine for Thanksgiving. Our 22 lb fresh-from-the-farm bird is brining as we write this, waiting for tomorrow morning's oven. The dressing (or stuffing, if you prefer) is ready to go. We've tried dozens of more elaborate types; oyster, clam, cornbread, venison, etc. The troops will have none of it, though they love the added sausage without being aware of its existence.

Cheesy mashed potatoes, yams, corn casserole, cranberry-orange bread, cran-raspberry salad, deviled eggs, pumpkin and pecan pie, cherry cheesecake round out our contributions. Visitors will bring in libations, some sort of green bean concoction, and various appetizers.

We also did up a pumpkin roll, but that will probably be split for take-home purposes, along with enough turkey for a couple of sandwiches and a scoop of dressing, for those loving leftovers.

We have 3 tables and a huge dining counter. Puck has complained in recent years if he's relegated to 'the kids table'; not necessary in this house. All the tables are decorated in some Thanksgiving theme (Martha Stewart or Rachel Ray we are not), thanks to the local Dollar Store.

How many will actually sit down to eat? Not sure, but expect between 15-20, depending on weather, other commitments. What we know as fact is that once the guests arrive, our work is pretty much done, except to make quiet suggestions as the need arises. It's so nice to have a kitchen-savvy HOH. We thank our Mother-in-law regularly for giving her best efforts in housebreaking the men in her life. We have made it a point to pass this custom on to our own brood.

And, yes, there is a strategically placed tv in the kitchen so HOH and various other fans don't miss their football.

Feel free to share your menu and traditions with us. If you're going to be in the neighborhood, drop in. We'd love to see you. There's always enough to go around and always an extra chair or stool.

Happy Thanksgiving to all our American readers!

Enjoy your families and friends! Give thanks for all the good people and things in your lives and your good health. Eat hearty, drink moderately, drive safe.

David Caruso: Kill Clause A Step Above

Last night's contribution to the CBS lineup, "CSI Miami" gave us quite an enjoyable hour, as we pass subjective judgment from our La-Z-Boy perch. Head n shoulders above last week's episode, "Kill Clause" seemed to bring it all together, while leaving us a few dangling threads to hold us over the holidays and into December.

We've included Scott Parker's review, though not read, yet knowing it offers a concise synopsis. Thanks to Scott, we are left to rant on about those niblets that bug us, satisfying our bummed out compulsion to provide the piss n vinegar. E.G.:

(a) All those high-power suspects and nary a legal counsel in sight? How unreal is that. We all know even the most common criminal clams up until they get representation, yet we are led to believe a CEO, an executive assistant and a professional statistician are ready to sing at the first steely glare from Horatio or trout pout from Calleigh. What insurance company would write a policy for 1M on one of the maintenance staff? The Batman reference from the CEO? More than a tad out of character.

(b) Referring to a superior as "H" should be a term reserved for team members of long-standing, not the new kid on the block. Hearing Walter use the more intimate 'H' right out of the gate is disrespectful, then inconsistent as he uses 'sir' when he next addresses him. We find it equally unsettling when even Calleigh or Natalia refer to Horatio this way, but suspect our objection there is to its being slightly low-class for the distaff members.

(c) Did it suddenly, in Season 8, occur to TPTB that "CSI Miami" lacked any humor? Or have they been reading ours and other sites which have routinely complained of this lack? Perhaps they've noticed the procedural high ratings often go to those with a few 'gotcha' phrases thrown in; "NCIS", "The Mentalist", "Castle" are examples. "Baby wipe", indeed!

(d) We are still, and will continue to be, disconcerted unless and until Horatio is firmly reinstated as the team's leader, with the primary exposure and, often, the focus of the evening.

(e) There's no question we're experiencing a renewed wave in the more personal, intimate crime dramas. Forensics isn't the shiny new penny any longer. These shows must evolve to survive. That seems to be the motive in play this season. With this production, writers and directors hit a home run.

(f) Natalia's (Eva LaRue) fans will be chafing at the bit, waiting for her to nail Jesse (Eddie Cibrian) for his inconsiderate actions. Vengeance, we sincerely hope, will be sweet and necessary to supplement Jesse's new secret. Eddie's fan base alone isn't sufficient yet to carry it over the long haul.http://www.bscreview.com/2009/11/csi-miami-kill-clause-review/

Megan Pieper, associate producer on CSI Miami, delves into the fragility of the jellyfish and the process necessary to obtain optimal visual effects for "Kill Clause", in The Producer's Blog. Again, a good read.
http://www.cbs.com/primetime/csi_miami/community/blogs/blog.php?key=0