REVIEW: Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 19 Episode 5
“Friendly Fire” is Criminal Minds: Evolution season 19 episode 5, which follows the crushing case of a training accident gone wrong. Luke Alvez’s (Adam Rodriguez) friend from episode two (Jamison Jones) serves as this week’s victim. While Luke clashes with Tyler over motive and M.O., the B plot is on Elias Voit (Zach Gilford). In addition, Dr. Lewis and Agent Rossi (Aisha Tyler and Joe Mantegna) learn that Brian Garrity (Paul F. Tompkins) received a nearly identical manifesto from Voit’s fan. Using Garrity’s podcast, the BAU attempts to communicate with The Fan in order to capture him.
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RELATED: REVIEW: Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 19 Episode 3
Brian Garrity the BAU’s Newest Tool
While Emily Prentiss (Paget Brewster) may agree with the title in the derogatory sense, Brian Garrity’s presence provides a functional and unique branch between the BAU and The Fan. Previously known as Prentiss’ ridiculous neighbour and conspiracy theorist, his role in season 19 is the infamous Sicarius podcast host. In his time as a trending podcaster, Brian has attracted the attention of Voit’s worst sycophants and their intentions. Could his service as the communication link for the season also be the foreshadowing of his death by season’s end?
In the episode “Friendly Fire,” at Voit’s suggestion, Rossi and Tara orchestrate a live podcast to goad The Fan into calling in. As shown in episode three, The Fan has been attentive to Brian’s retelling of the Sicarius story. However he took offence to Voit’s “pathetic” designation of the listeners. He then sent Elias a handmade compilation of letters with the repeating sentiment, “I AM NOT PATHETIC,” similar to his booklet to Brian. His including the phrase “Some may call me a FAN. But HE may call me GOD.” Brian being forcibly intertwined into the BAU’s investigation seems like the build to what prompted The Fan’s interest in Sicarius.
What Clues Foreshadow Garrity’s Death?
Recalling Garrity’s likelihood to overstep his role as a civilian, in season 17, the audience witnessed how his lack of impulse control put Prentiss in danger. At that point in time, Brian was manipulated by Pete Bailey to frame Prentiss for assault. In tandem, he was also a mouthpiece for his conspiracies. Barring a radical personality shift, Brian could allow his ego and strong will to push him into dangerous waters. This time without the BAU to guide or save him.
Aside from Brian’s newfound bridge between the safety of the BAU and the danger of The Fan, there is one more sign that his death could be imminent. In true Criminal Minds fashion, the greatest omen is an episode with a character name. After searching the Paramount+ title list, season 19 episode 9 is named “Special Agent Garrity,”. This could possibly signify Brian uncharacteristically entering the field, intentionally or not.
Perhaps Garrity’s desire to keep his societal fame and standing with the BAU will entice him to play hero, only to end in martyrdom.
