How Does the ‘NCIS: Hawai’i’ Premiere Compare to the Rest of the Franchise? (RECAP)
Spoiler Alert
[Warning: The below contains MAJOR spoilers for the NCIS: Hawai’i series premiere.]
After three successful NCIS series — we still remember the Red backdoor pilot on Los Angeles — CBS is hoping it has a fourth on its hands with Hawai’i. But do we have another team on our screens we want to see running around solving crimes each week?
In Hawai’i, Vanessa Lachey stars as the first female special agent in charge — and franchise lead — Jane Tennant, who makes it clear to the newbie, Kai Holman (Alex Tarrant), that she considers her team — Jesse Boone (Noah Mills), Lucy Tara (Yasmine Al-Bustami), and Ernie Malik (Jason Antoon) — a family. (Tori Anderson‘s Kate Whistler isn’t technically part of the team — she’s their liaison with the Defense Intelligence Agency — though she has a fun connection to one of them, as revealed in the premiere.) It’s a sentiment shared across pretty much every procedural drama.
Let’s compare the Hawai’i premiere to NCIS, Los Angeles, and New Orleans‘ in a few key areas:
The Cases
On Hawai’i, the crash of an experimental Naval aircraft leads to the team uncovering a ring after classified information on the project using cocktail waitresses to lure in the pilots. (The latest victim was poisoned.) Tennant jumps off a cliff, followed by Kai, to take down the leader (with some help from a massive wave).
It certainly had some action, but it just didn’t have the connection that New Orleans‘ did to the community as Pride (Scott Bakula) and his team investigated the murder of a young man he mentored, nor did it have the high stakes and suspense of Los Angeles, in which a young girl’s father is more involved than they thought in the case. And NCIS‘ was just a lot more fun, onboard Air Force One and with the team stealing the body away from the FBI (and putting Michael Weatherly‘s DiNozzo in its place).
Karen Neal/CBS
The Team
The premiere does a pretty good job of establishing the members of the team: Jesse is the second-in-command (and the one who has known Tennant the longest), Lucy worries about getting on her boss’ bad side, Ernie is the quirky tech guru, and Kai is the newbie who’s a bit resistant to entirely fitting in and finding his place. But it seems to push a bit too hard on establishing these as people who gather outside of work with the gathering at Tennant’s place, with her kids, at the end. There’s a disconnect there. Sure, we can see the relationship between Tennant and each of her team, but not really among the team members or everyone as a whole. We just don’t feel the bond like we should among people who (mostly) knew each other already.
On the other hand, that wasn’t the case for NCIS, Los Angeles, or New Orleans, though all had an advantage that Hawai’i doesn’t: They were all introduced in backdoor pilots on other shows (JAG, NCIS) in the franchise. Even so, there were bits sprinkled throughout those premieres that made us believe these characters cared about each other (at least somewhat) outside of work, such as the welcome back for LA‘s Callen (Chris O’Donnell) when he returned to work after getting shot, or the NOLA team helping Brody (Zoe McLellan) find a place and Pride cooking in the kitchen in the office.
Karen Neal/CBS
The (Potential) Romances
Now, this is where Hawai’i thrives where the other shows didn’t. The premiere establishes two will they/won’t they (or will they again, in one case) relationships. Tennant and Lucy both clash with others involved in the case — Captain Milius (recurring guest star Enver Gjokaj) and Kate, respectively — and at least one party in each pairing seems intrigued by the other. Tennant and Milius’ tentative professional (and likely soon personal) relationship is just beginning.
Meanwhile, Lucy clashes with Kate over (the sensitive information of) the pilot’s autopsy report (he was poisoned), and yes, that tension does lead where you might be thinking it will based on that interaction: a kiss when Lucy goes to apologize, and no, it’s not the first time. But while Kate calls it a “horrible mistake,” Lucy doesn’t exactly agree. If this is going anywhere (and hopefully it is), we’re definitely excited to tag along for the ride.
On the other hand, the romances of the other shows didn’t come into play (and many of the characters involved didn’t first appear) until much later. For example, Eric Christian Olsen‘s Marty Deeks didn’t join LA until near the end of the first season and officially partnered with Daniela Ruah‘s Kensi Blye in the second, and Pride was separated from his wife.
The Location
Hawai’i also has the edge on incorporating the location and its culture, especially as Kai uses his local knowledge during the case and reconnects with people from his past. It would be nearly impossible for it not to get a win in this regard, considering how gorgeous the island is.
New Orleans did a good job of using its location as well (and continued to do so past the premiere), especially when it came to the food and music.
What did you think of the newest NCIS series? Let us know in the comments below.
NCIS: Hawai’i, Mondays, 10/9c. CBS
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It was horrible! Cannot even compare to NCIS or NCIS LA. It seemed like it was trying to replace Hawaii Five-0. And the actors just lacked a connection. Not a fan.
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I felt like the show was so focused on a diverse cast that the producers just picked random diverse actors. There was no chemistry between the actors. And the possible same sex couple’s flirtation was lame. No chemistry between the two actors. That relationship should have already been established, like showing how to juggle work and family.
I doubt that I watch it again. It really missed the “pull” that the other NCIS shows had on their premieres.
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Didn't care for it....probably won't be watching. I've been a die hard NCIS fan since 2003 with the first episode Yankee White....you connected with the team right away, especially Gibbs, DiNozzo and Ducky! Smart team with a lot of chemistry..
55 1
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I wasn't impressed. I love the other NCIS shows, but not this one.
50 2
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15 minutes in I was not impressed. Trying to give it a fair shake, I endured the whole episode.
That is an hour of my life that I will never be able to reclaim.
Bad acting, a transparent plot, no believable connection between characters, obvious green screen "outdoor" scenes, and writers going out of their way to check all the woke boxes they could in one episode all add up to an unwatchable waste of time.
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I am still upset about how NOLA was "canceled." It was my favorite. I watched this but it wasn't even as good as Five-0 and hard to distinguish from it as opposed to being an NCIS team. Even Leroy Jethro Gibbs couldn't save it.
40 1
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I didn’t really care for it. I was hoping I would like it since I watch all the other ones but this one just didn’t grab me.
37 5
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You’re right. Bring back NCIS New Orleans
26 1
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I agree with you!
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I didn’t Like NCIS Hawaii she’s a terrible actress I don’t know what made them pick her and the other ones it just didn’t work they need to bring back NCIS New Orleans they were a believer ball team this one isn’t and don’t say just give it one more try no if you don’t get me when you first start it’s not worth watching
30 1
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Agree...bring back NCIS New Orleans
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I watched half of it then turned it off. I'll try re-watching today on Paramount, but for some reason, it just didn't grab me.
30 2
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I wasn’t impressed at all. Needs a lot of work to get me to watch every week.
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Was not at all impressed. Completely misses the mark. The cohesiveness between the cast is totally missing.
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I turned it off half way thru.
18 1
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Didn’t like it . It’s not Hawaii 5 0 and it’s not as good as any if the other NCIS shows.
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Not a fan. Suggest future episodes do a better job of giving us some back stories on main character and supporting cast. Plus Vanessa Lachey has very little acting experience-beyond reality tv-kinda surprised she was chosen….supporting cast same, tech guy familiar but oddball in a bad way, and I didn’t think the locations chosen for scenes showed off Hawaii the way it should have been.
15 1
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Hated it, nothing at all like I was expecting. Have watched every single episode of the other NCIS shows, but Hawaii is one and done for me and my husband. Honestly, I can't believe that they thought NCIS fans would like this show. Somebody needs to be fired.
11
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Made me miss New Orleans & Pride’s team even more.
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As a huge NCIS fan since the first season of the mothership, I was totally unimpressed with this one. I'm bummed that they cancelled New Orleans and put this one on. LA is my least favorite but I still watch it. To me, I agree that Hawaii does seem like they threw a randomly diverse cast together with no real chemistry. And Vanessa whatever her last name is sounded like she was reading her lines off a script hidden off camera. Plus I couldn't figure out why she had to make that dramatic helicopter entrance and say to the captain her name and "NCIS Hawaii." Like he wouldn't know which NCIS agency? You don't hear the LA agents going "NCIS Los Angeles!!!" Or Gibbs and his team introducing themselves as "NCIS Washington DC!!!" And I laughed out loud at how stupid the climactic scene was. A huge wave? Really? Besides that, we won't even TALK about how their tech guy's manic glares made me think of the sidekick in Young Frankenstein...
So I doubt I'll tune back in.
11
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Boring. No connection to Gibbs which has been key to the success of the franchise. They also could have used Hettie, a fabulous character to introduce the series. Give it time but doubt it’s renewal for year two!
12 1
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Put NOLA back.
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All the other NCIS series started with much better, more seasoned, actors in the lead roles. They also made the crime solving the focus and developed the team personalities as they went. Based on the pilot I don’t think this one will do as well… I know I won’t go out of my way to watch it.
11 1
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It was not very good. Too much nonsense action and the scene jumping into the ocean was ridiculous. No interaction between the team and the acting was rather non-existent No intellectual following of the evidence. Don't think I'll look at it again.
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I will watch it some more to see if I can grow to like it. I LOVE shows in Hawaii. I loved Hawaii five O. I hate to say it, but I think this show would have been better with a different lead actress/actor. Kono from Hawaii five O might have been better. My favorite of all the shows is Hawaii five O and NCIS: LA which totally rocks. I didn't like Magnum PI when it first came out, but I've grown to really like it. So, I will give it a chance.
12 3
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Not watching. Should have kept New Orleans show.
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They really need to connect the characters with some of the leftovers from Hawaii Five-O and Magnum. Where's Kamakona? Noelani the coroner? Maybe even a guest appearance by Grover's son or Grace Williams...
8
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Did not like it. Turned it off. Found something more interesting an entertaining
Give me back NCIS New Orleans
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Didn't care for it!!! it just seemed like Hawaii Five-O with a different cast. I probably won't watch it again. Not nearly as good as all the previous NCIS shows.
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Not a fan….should have never taken NOLA off…much better then this one
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Female Special Agent is too serious, straight forward. I'm not happy about the show, should have let New Orleans continue.
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My husband was so disappointed he went to bed. I decided to stick it out & give it a chance but was VERY sorry I did!! I won't watch it again.
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It will never replace NOLA. Canceling NCIS NOLA was a big mistake. A new Hawaii 50. is not needed
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I lost interest after the first half hour because it moved so slowly. I have been watching the NCIS series since it’s inception. Unfortunately NCIS Hawaii cannot compare to the original, to LA and certainly not the canceled New Orleans. It was too slow paced for my liking. Perhaps it might get better. I’ll watch again and see if it does.
7 1
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That same sex love scene was forced.
Go back to the drawing board or bring back NCIS New Orleans.
6
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It was a repackaged version of Hawaii 5 0 with a new cast and a new name. 5 0 was better.
6
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Lousy. Cancel it now.
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LA was definitely better then all of these. There's something that's just so special about seeing the boss put a blanket on a sleeping agent and letting him sleep on the couch.
NCIS is definitely ranked second on this list, because it was really fun.
7 1
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This spinoff will be lucky to last one season. Poor Hawaiian takeoff if compared to Hawaii 50 or Magnum. Should have stayed with NCIS NOLA. It had better cast and interactions. Producers blew it this time.
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Underwhelmed. Still bummed that they took NCIS NOLA off.
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They canceled NCIS New Orleans for this garbage. Yikes! Redo the cast, especially Vanessa.. Or enroll her in acting class.
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I stopped watching after the first 15 minutes. The characters are completely unbelievable, the plot is unrecognizable and the premise is silly. Nothing like the other NCIS shows at all. Will not be watching.
6 1
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It was horrible! Will not be watching!
4
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Not good. Turned it off half way thru. I felt no connection at all. Bring back NOLA
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It was terrible. The lighting was off, too many characters, too jumbled, I hardly made it through the episode. Shame on you for canceling NOLA. It was the best. I even watch reruns of reruns.
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This show was so boring that I turned it off. PLEASE BRING BACK NOLA!
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Not impressed. Probably won’t watch. Rather have NOLA back.
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It didn’t impress me at all at all,
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Terrible! Will never watch it again …can’t believe it’s from the same producers!😢
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I just did not connect to it at all…I’ll try another episode or two
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I watched 1/2 of NCIS Hawaii and it didn't impress me at all. I won't watch it again.
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It did nothing for me not one character I like I think we have to much NCIS shows stick with two CBS NCIS and LA that is enough.
It’s time CBS brings a good drama show instead of more NCIS FRANCHISE
6 2
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I didnt like it. It didn't keep my attention and Im a big fan of all these CSI type shows. I probably won't tune in again. Also Im not a fan of Vanessa Lachey, I dont find her to be likable.
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was so excited about a female lead... Lachey is a disappointment. There are so many more strong female that they could've picked. She lacks that quiet commend of a lead and reeks trying way too hard to be I'm a "strong lead" and she looks so uncomfortably awkward and stiff with ALL her lines, the inflections of her deliveries are just plain off . Kim Raver in the cancelled NCIS: Red was so much a better strong female team lead. Any of the female characters in the FBI series have more quiet strength that doesn't veer into the cliche female boss territory. And as everyone points out - there's zero chemistry between ANY of the character - this is not an ohana that fights crime together day in and out.
Can we also make a point of how dark the series looks in one of the happiest places on earth. You'd think that the sun never visits Hawaii. When NCIS OG is more upbeat visually than Hawaii... I have questions, if the plan of this new version of NCIS is more gritty and dark... why did you pick Hawaii? Aesthetically, it's ridiculous and there are so many other US cities you could've picked - for god sake, if it must be on the west coast and by the Pacific Ocean - then any where in the Northwest region would've been more weather appropriate.
Literally writing this midway through the episode, this is how much I enjoyed the pilot. Just cancel it - try another iteration. There are so many other show of the same format to spend any time on.
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So I have been a fan of NCIS since it debut on JAG. I have loved every series that they have done till last night. NCIS Hawaii does not compare to the other series, NCIS New Orleans was 100 times better. I watched the 1st episode and will not watch any more. If I want to watch a Hawaiian show, I will watch Hawaii 5-0, it was a much better show.
3
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I was very disappointed with this program! Been a devoted fan of the NCIS series since its inception. Hawaii is really lame compared to the others.
I really enjoyed "50" this doesn't come close. Maybe incorporate some of the "50" people might improve things. I think who ever made the decision to dump New Orleans, should be dumped also! Long live GIBBS and Miss Lang!
3
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I am not impressed with this new NCIS. The location is beautiful! The cast just doesn’t gel. I can’t put my finger on it, but it just doesn’t work!
3
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I think they should kill off the whole cast and start fresh. With actors that really connect with each other. A boss, a number 2, a couple of team members and a (weird) tech person such as in The Equalizer, the Chicago series , the FBI series, Person of Interest, Five-0, NCIS & NCIS-LA, Revenge! This debacle failed on so many levels. Cancel it immediately.
3
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Not impressed . Don’t think I’ll be watching it again .
3
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One and done! Not comparable to any show using the NCIS name. Shameful!
3
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Something was missing. Chemistry, someone to care about, the humor that's an undercurrent in the other NCIS franchise shows. Not sure I'll watch a second one
3
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I was not impressed and will not watch again. Preferred NCIS New Orleans.
3
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I just couldn’t get connected.
3
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I love all the NCIS shows, have followed them all! Yet, I really didn’t like this one!
3
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I'm glad to see I'm not the only one who thought it was crap.
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First, Vanessa talks too fast, it's hard to understand what she is saying. Second, I'm tired of looking at shows about Hawaii what with Magnum PI, Hawaii Five-O, and others. I would think CBS would look for a different location. Not a fan of this show, it lacked substance and connectivity. Not sure if I'll watch anymore, I wasn't impressed. The New Orleans version's characters were much more connected especially with Pride's music, the bar, and his love and trust of his team. Although, I was disappointed that they married him off. I think his being single and perhaps dating was a much better story line, and I'm sure his real-life wife is a nice person, but her character came off as a smart-a.., and southern women are not like that. Not a fan of the Hawaii version.
3
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I didn’t care for it. I don’t plan on watching it.
3
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Take 2 great programs off and put this on, I'm not an expert but this won't fly. Strongly dislike!
3
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Boring. No grab at all. I didn't see anything wrong with Five-0 task force. At least they had some comedy mixed in. This one, just boring.
3
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Disappointing
3
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No chemistry , no introduction of characters. Lot of cultural dialogue that made no sense, scenery was beautiful. Should of moved the NOLA actors to Hawaii if they wanted to film there so bad.
2
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I am a long time NCIS fan so I watched the new Hawaii version. Not impressed. They didn't take advantage of the great scenery, or the beautiful area; whole show seemed dark and too complex to totally follow closely. Characters disjointed. They should have left "NCIS New Orleans" on and quit trying to do something new. I will always watch the original NCIS with Jethro Gibbs!
2
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Two thumbs down. Wanted to like it; but never really felt any connection with any of the agents; hate shows where everyone struts their egos as to who is in charge; it was all forced.
2
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I felt that it was disjointed no spark between the characters bad acting not believable
2
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Hated it. Will not watch again!
2
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Didn’t care for it. Won’t watch again. Very disjointed.
2
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B.O.R.i.N.G & very sick of same sex relationships being shoved into my world on a continual basis give it a rest.
2
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I fell asleep. The whole story line was boring. The cast seemed like it was their first day working together and I didn’t have the energy to try to fit them together. I doubt I will be watching with any consistency. Might let it play while I do laundry…
2
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I programmed it to always record until the lesbian scene. I will not watch it.
2
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I can’t believe we lost NCIS-NO for this replacement. Even the beautiful setting of Hawaii won’t be enough to save this one. We suffered through the whole episode but not fans. May give it one more week and hope it improves from the pilot.
2
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Boring. No connection. I quit watching about half way through. Bring back NCIS New Orleans. Loved that one.
2
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No to Monday, no to NCIS Hawaii, no to trying to mix things up!
2
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Main character not strong enough. Very boring. Probably won’t watch it
2
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Stinks
2
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Too many new, tough people to introduce in such a complex high profile case..in a new show. The cast was not at all believable..
And the jumping into the ocean was just stupid..
And the Kumbaya pot luck is too soon..
As well as some scenes were too dark.. 💡
Not entertaining at all..
I’m hoping someone puts more effort into NOLA and brings it back..
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I think it's too bad that CBS has gone to pandering the LGBTQ audience with another lesbian relationship as in "All Rise." Spoiling my Hawaii.
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I SO AGREE WITH YOU
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Saw it once and it was enough
2
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Terrible
2
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Sucks
2
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I found the show very confusing. It seemed that the female agents were in conflict with the male navy officers. It was difficult to figure out who was with what agency and why they would not work together! It lacked the relationships between the NCIS team. It was all about the boss being female.
I really liked NCIS New Orleans they had a good relationship between the characters on the show.
1
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It left much to be desired. No outstanding actors nor was there any character that called for attachment from viewers. I didn't think that Ms. Lachey had the intensity to be thought of as the leader of the team. Personally I changed channels after 30 minutes. I felt that was enough. You either fall in love with a show from day one or you don't, and I didn't. Considering the fact it was given the best time slot right after NCIS, I'm sure there were many viewers wanting to give it a shot. For this viewer, it's just not up to snuff. Why they canceled NCIS New Orleans and brought this to the fold, is beyond me and many other fans.
1
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Just couldn’t connect to the characters. Instantly connected to the other teams. Wish NCIS New Orleans was still on.
1
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Did not like at all. Too many women. And when those women kissed the television was turned off immediately. So tired of being forced to watch that junk. It is not natural. I shudder to think that kids watching will think it is the normal and okay.
1
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I hated it. Terrible acting, too chopped up, really stupid. I'm embarrassed that the name NCIS is attached to it, because I'm a big fan. I will not watch it again. I don't want lesbian love shoved in my face. What did that add to the show? It's not reality TV. It was supposed to be a law enforcement procedural. Yuk!
1
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Ncis Hawaii needs work. Boring and slow. Willing to give it 1-2 more weeks but otherwise no go. Loooove all other NCIS franchises. This one NOT up to its standard at all! So sad!! 😭
1
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Did not like from the beginning thought the helicopter was foolish story line went south from there. Poor storyline and acting. One and done for me…
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Did not like it. Stopped watching after the lesbian scene.
1
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Did not care for it....upset also about NOLA being XD. This new one did not show Hawai'i to its best advantage....Hawai'i 5-0 spoiled me as I immediately cared for all the players, loved the photography and really felt they were Ohana. I know a different franchise! BUT....it was in Hawai'i and basically a cop show. So right now not a fan. I might try it again in a few weeks to see if there's some improvement. Just my opinion.
1
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Turned it off immediately, stopped recording it, and cancelled future recordings as soon as 2 women kissed.
1
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Very disappointed
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C
Didn't like it
1
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O
Terrible show and there was just no excitement and chemistry between the actors. All of the roles and scripts were not well executed. They appear to be only going through the motions. Could not even follow along the show and what was happening partly due to the boring story line.
1
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I didn't care for it at all. I did watch most of it with hope that it would live up to the other NCIS shows,,but when the two women started making out in a heated moment,,,that's when I turned it off,,,will never watch it again. Bring back " Hawaii 5-0".
1
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R
Horrible!
1
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B
Not impressed at all. I don’t believe I’ll be watching this one.
1
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Horrible from start to finish. Cast is mediocre and the introduction of same sex situations won’t sit well with many people including me but that’s why we have a channel switch button!
1
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Hated it as well as NCIS why they took Nola off I will never understand
1
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Big let down
1
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Not good at all , fake actors .
1
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I won't be watching it again.....YUCK
1
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Not impressed won't watch again can't hardly understand the characters connections .
1
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Doubt I will watch again. I love shows set in Hawaii but don’t want to see kissing between two women. Buh bye
1
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didn’t particularly care for it
1
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Not too impressed but shall give it a try. Miss New Orleans.
1
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I wasn't a fan. The whole thing felt disjointed, no noticeable chemistry or connection with the team and a whole lot of what I assume will be recurring characters thrown at us very quickly. All of those outside family/friend connections should have been rolled out slowly while concentrating on the core team first. I don't even remember their names because there was just too much squeezed into this one episode. I'll give it another episode or two before deciding if I'll stick with it
1
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It was a bit disconnected. They have good bones and the setting is beautiful but they need to show more team dynamics. Also I was not sure of the lead chosen but I was impressed with Vanessa. Since I am a huge fan of anything NCIS I will see how it plays out. Please give them a chance!
1
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I did not care for the first episode.
Probably will not watch. Don’t you
think we have enough problems then
Putting this show on the air.
Won’t be watching this series.!!!!
1
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B
It wasn't bad also wasn't great, they were trying to hard.I won't watch again
1
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I so looked forward to this new show. What a huge disappointment. Have followed NCIS since its beginning. Loved the New Orleans one too. Followed L.A. one until middle of last season and quit watching it. This new one was so hard to follow..the cast and the show did not flow smoothly ..we gave up on it before the hour was over. NO comparison on great flowing or interraction of the cast. No longer on my need to watch list..will see how long it stays on the air.
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I managed five minutes before I quit and went to football instead. Boring.
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NCIS:NOLA was much better all the way around.
That should have stayed in the air.
I gave up on LA pretty early in its run.
I’ll probably drop this one soon, but I’ll give it a few weeks.
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Will not watch again I will not be forced to watch lesbians
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Turned it off on the first episode when the gay crap came up! Hollywood too gay today! Plus between Hawaii Five-O and Magnum PI Hawaii has been done! And NCIS LA needs to lose the rag rapped female she's not living in a desert with sand storms and need the head dressing to keep the sand out! Sad how bad Hollywood has gotten with politics in all the shows!
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Terrible, a cheap knockoff, bring back NCIS New Orleans
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I had to force myself to watch the whole episode. It was kind of boring, there was no chemistry between the actors, I really don't want to watch two women in a kissing frenzy, and the tech guy is so bad that I will not watch this show again. Huge disappointment
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It was absolutely garbage. Bad acting, writing, directing. Not worthy to be linked to NCIS and is nothing more than a cheaply and poorly done knock off of hawaii5o. Should have gone with the NCIS San Diego idea with harm and mac
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Like the others on this thread are saying, it was an hour of our lives that we'll never get back. One and done.
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I watched the first show and waited to give my opinion until I saw the second show. The first show was lacking in team leadership and team togetherness. You need a strong main character to lead a show like this and make it real. The lead female was lacking in her take charge role. The second show was better mainly because the story was more dramatic. Seems like her team knows more than the lead character. Need to beef up her strength and knowledge. The pushing of lesbian relationships in shows is getting really old. Why was NCIS investigating when there was not a clear military involvement?
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Won't bother. Bring back 5-O and New Orleans. They were a family
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G
I did not like it, the plots are fake and the characters too.
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B
REMOVE the gay gals....we don't need that on a police/security program, you shouldn't have to watch that
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O
I gave it two episodes but unfortunately doesn't even resemble the other NCIS franchise. I was looking forward to the beautiful scenes of Hawaii , but even those scenes could not save this show for me. In my opinion there is no chemistry with the team and unfortunately the stories themselves have been disjointed and boring. Had to remove it from my DVR not worth my time to watch. Sorry CBS you have to do better. Still love the original however.
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C
Too soon to say.I give new shows 3-4 episodes before I decide if I will continue watching
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O
I really don’t like NCIS Hawaii. I wish NCIS New Orleans would return.
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G
The worse premier of any show this fall!! Why cancel New Orleans? It was fun to watch and Hawaii, boring!! The cast are dull, sound monotone and don't interact together. Get rid of it and bring back NCIS New Orleans!
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P
She is not a strong enough lead .It's like making James bond a woman doesn't work.
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O
I watched the first 15 minutes of this show. I was bored. No chemistry between the cast. They should have kept NCIS New Orleans!
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C
It was just okay. Plot was so so and the cast did not seem to gel with one another. No Medical Examiner?? Can’t believe New Orleans was canceled for this!! Sad
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G
horrible!! disappointing! uninspiring! waste of time! the acting is horrible the plot was boring why have an ocean scene on hawaii in the dark??!! some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and you can’t see the water!! this was the pilot the one that’s supposed to suck you into the story but this is a failure an hour i won’t get back! too bad.. you lost me this is a one and done … i miss NOLA!!!
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O
Funny, the majority people hate it but once again, the media is giving us a supposed higher ranking (5.2 on IMDB) to fit their narrative. It was NOTHING like ANY of the NCIS shows. The elements were NOT there. Boring piece of garbage with POOR filming and dialog. None of the actors were good. Just look at the comments here and on IMDB. It is almost 95% critical of the show. I cannot see this lasting even 8 episodes.
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C
I loved it. It had adventure. Premise was good. Vanessa Lachey played Jane Tennant and was outstanding. I I believe the characters will interact more and become closer as the series progresses. I will watch it again. I didn’t compare it to any other NCIS. I took it a face value.
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B
It was a good pilot episode with interesting and diverse characters set in a gorgeous setting. I look forward to more!
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P
I can't believe they cancelled New Orleans for this. The first episode was awful. I'll watch again but why cancel a good show for this
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P
Did not like the show at all. Don’t know what they were trying to do. Not much could help it.
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R
better than the other two spin off shows, but still disappointing. Does not compare to the original
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R
Need to stop filming. Terrible NCIS. It will die a slow death
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P
LOve the original NCIS..my favourite show. Really like NCIS New Orleans..upset when it went off the air. Watched the new one and not that impressed. Very disjointed. Will watch a few times to see how the story line goes. Hope the new episodes are better than the first show. Bring back NCIS New Orleans.
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G
Niced scenery but that is about all. Lame writing, not too likeable cast, don't need 2 women kissing......So it's a NO for me.
Go back to Hawaii 5 - 0 show
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B
It was terrible! No realism at all. I doubt this show will last very long. Too bad! I like all the other NCIS shows.
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O
It was terrible, as a long time NCIS fan I wanted to like it. The writing was stilted, the cast seemed more like people thrown together in some bad college group project. None of them were believable, they were more like cartoon versions of real people. Absolutely no sense of team. Super BORING!
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O
Hated it! It was like a very bad reboot of Hawaii Five-0... tried to be too much like them. The quirky tech guy 🙄 to the man's man who bucks the rules. Not original at all. Just awful. I miss NCIS:New Orleans. I won't be watching this one again.
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O
It’s a “no” from me. Cardboard characters.
-
O
I don't see this one lasting more than 1 season! The characters have no personality.
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G
Meh!! Needs a lot of improvement. C- for the first episode.
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C
Very disappointed. Felt like it was a copy of Hawaii Five O which I loved. Will not watch again
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R
Disappointing, an awful show. Will not be watching.
Bring back NCIS New Orleans.
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R
Boring beyond belief - stopped watching 20 min in. Terrible writing and acting. Too much focus on diversity instead of a "real" team. Bury this under "offensively mundane"
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C
It was awful, just terrible. It was like the producers tried to take all the great parts that made up the early seasons of Hawaii Five-O, Magnum PI, and NCIS, but totally missed the mark. There was no chemistry, not enough info about the characters to make you want to watch more learn about them and hope to get the impression that they click as a team…nothing. It was actually worse than the failed NCIS Read Team they floated in NCIS:LA.
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P
Tried to cover too much going on in the world today in one episode. Sexism check (early scene where main character has to let the man look like it’s his call she has the case). Police misconduct, check. Bar scene. LGQBT relationship, check. Diverse cast check, however background stories revealed so far have all been done (local with family issues returns to island from military ((H5O)). Also little to no action (which I’m grander scheme of things is more realistic ((number of cops or agents that actually have to fire service weapon in real world isn’t as large as Hollywood would have us believe). Chemistry isn’t there yet but as with any show that doesn’t have a intro from a more well known show we will have to give it some time. Big NCIS fan so I’ll give it a season to see where it takes us and if it can draw us into its world. However I do hope it’s not the new “stereotype show” trying to correct every past Hollywood “sin” by over emphasizing “woke culture” in such a way that it becomes unrealistic. Also as a military vet (20 years) they need to take a look at their advisor or other shows because things are more off than required. I’ll leave it at that for now. Hope the show does well in the long run!
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G
What is Hetty Lange, if not female?
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P
She wasn’t the main agent going into the field and seeing action every day (although she has a past story and some side stories with plenty of it) Also original NCIS had a female director in charge of them all (but same thing applies I guess).
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R
I think the network was wise putting this behind NCIS. It may give it a chance for the cast to build chemistry but right now it's a little wonky. And the same sex thing I thought I was watching the cw. That was doe poorly.
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G
No cast chemistry at all. Lachey recited her lines, but that was about it. Writing was pedestrian, to downright stupid. The head of the agency was really going to jump off a cliff to apprehend a bad guy that was going to drown? And the tech guy with his creepy bug-out eyes was downright strange. The show survives since it follows the mother ship. NOLA was terminated for this mess?
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O
I thought that the Tech character was the most believable! The rest were kind of weak, especially Vanessa Lachey. Stick to reality shows with no scripts.
-
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C
It was terrible...boring! I agree I felt no connection or vibe or chemistry between the cast. I fell asleep 20 mins into the show. The actin was also limited and their was no stand out character. I will watch a few more shows but they should have kept NCIS New Orleans...so far I’m unimpressed.
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G
Did not like it. Hawaii 5-O much better.
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R
I watch the Hawaii 5-0 reruns and this show makes me miss that show a lot, but it's not as good as 5-0, nor as good as the other NCIS shows. But, I have faith that in time, the chemistry between the actors will start coming out more. The one thing I can say that probably won't change is that Vanessa as the Captain did a lousy job. The others I can see getting better and had their good parts.
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G
This program falls into the "if I can't find anything else worth watching, I'll watch it" category. Could have done without the lesbian love affair - it added absolutely nothing and certainly proved to be an unneeded distraction. Do the writers really think all this crap and these love affairs would be allowed in the real world? One of those people would be gone inside of a day. Totally tasteless as well. The original plot was good, but there wasn't enough time spent on it and too much on other things. I give it a D- as a grade.....it certainly doesn't stand up well against NOLA, LA, or the original series. Weak characters too - didn't care for any of them. And how soon before there's a fake "Magnum" crossover in hopes of boosting ratings? If there aren't changes - gone by January.
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G
Bring back NCIS Nola!!!
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O
I thought it bombed. I feel sorry for the cast. It’s not their fault.
-
O
I found it boring and the team seemed disconnected. I actually stopped watching at the half hour in favor of a NCIS New Orleans rerun.
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G
Thought it was awful had to.turn.it off
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C
Felt no connection to this cast. Turned the channel after 30 minutes.
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R
It’s not NOLA . Miss that program very much
-
O
A bad Hawaii five O.
-
O
I liked it l didn't care for LA but in the end I love it
-
O
I really didn't like it at all . The whole program seemed chopped up. No flow to the story hard to follow what was happening. Would have loved to see Emily Wickersham as the lead not Vanessa.
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C
Didn’t care it , I’ll give a second look , NICS New Orleans was a lot better
-
G
I think I will be watching something else if available like NCIS NEW ORLEANS RERUNS
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G
I did not care for the show. I want watch again.
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B
It was just ok. I didn’t feel like the cast meshed well together. Lachey was better than I expected!
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C
Didn’t realize it was on now have to go on demand and watch it
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O
I thought it was light, no connection. Maybe because we aren’t familiar with the characters. Yes
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P
I won't watch again. Bad writers and of course they had to bring on the Lesbian story, what a crock.
-
R
I agree with most that it was lacking chemistry. It has none of the charm of the other NCISes. All of them started with connections to the others. They all had experienced veteran actors to stabilize the show. Where is the Linda Hunts, Scott Bakulas, or Mark Harmons? If you wanted a female Boss, what happened to Hannah Khouri from New Orleans? Where is the connection to Bellasario, like Brennan had on LA and Glasberg had on Nola
1
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O
I quit watching the other boring NCIS shows years ago, but I was up for this one because of Vanessa Lachey, the rest of the cast, & location in Hawaii. This show had the feel of 5-0 & Magnum, but @ the same time had its own identity. Hopefully, there will be some crossover with Magnum & Tennant working together. Great start to hopefully an entertaining season for NCIS:Hawaii!
1
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C
I've learned to have patience with new shows. Even though some of these folks have known each other for a while, they all need time for development. I'm looking forward to what comes next.
1
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C
I loved how the shows writers made the distinction with the difference in male/female leadership! I do wish that Vanessa and her Navy counterpart had more chemistry! I just don't know that they picked the right guy for the job. He didn't have that oomph. I know they are toning down Vanessa's sex appeal so her other traits are highlighted so they need a sexier guy (in my opinion). Scott Foley would have been great!
The chemistry with Lucy and the DIA agent was surprising although I did sense something in the air. I love Lucy's "smart, innocent and I wanna be liked by the boss" vibe. Her reading upside down skills....that was awesome to catch!
Loved the local boy that came back and how he adds to the cast. If you don't have a local, so many things can get lost to nuance. So many lessons to be learned and I feel like there are so many stories to tell and share here. Loved the plot. Very believable and interesting how you can be tracked...eeks.
Definitely will keep watching.
1
-
O
It was OK -I woulde give it a B to B+. One of the problems is that some of the crimes that may be investigated would be ones similar to the ones that involve 5-0. So that does this mean rhat 5-O is what -not there anymore?There was a cross over between 5-o & NCIS LA a few years ago. I know that they canned NCIS NOLA because of poor ratings. Considering that football & COVID did not help. Moving NCIS NOLA to Monday to follow NCIS would have helped. NCIS NOLA was established and the characters and stories compelling. If the big reason to can it was for this NCIS CBS made the wrong choice. Once again we have the same type of characters includinfg the quirky geek. There is no reason for NCIS Hawaii. It is 5-0 re figured. I will probably watch it but not like I watch NCIS LA or NCIS. NCIS LA is my favorite -great chracters & stories. Though Neil & Eric have departed at least Hetty is back and Kilbride is a regular. NCIS Hawaii will probably be kept on the schedule but I do think it will remain the third slot in terms of viewership .
1
-
O
to many NCIS shows all the same
1
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P
Was I watching the same show? I enjoyed it and will continue to watch.
1 3
-
G
Wasn't really impressed. But I am going to give it a chance .
2
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O
I was pleasantly surprised by the first episode. As someone who grew to love, then hate, NCIS: NOLA, NCIS: Hawai'i definitely has potential to be an interesting, solid show. It will all depend on the stories they tell and how the characters are developed. I'll definitely keep an eye on this one.
4 6
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R
Agreed… I lost interest in NOLA (but watched til the end) - I’ll give this a chance…
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G
I think it’s time for me to quit watching entertaining TV. Last night I watched the new NCIS: Hawaii, felt like I was watching a season of Hawaii 5-0. Needless to say it was disappointing. Except for Alex Tarrent, (800 words), I wasn’t familiar with any of the actors. I think it’s time to put some of these old shows to rest, ie. Law and Order, SVU; the NCIS franchise; Blue Bloods; Survivor; even The Blacklist. Now, they're bringing back CSI LV. Really? These shows were great when first started and for many seasons after. However, now, I feel they've outlived reality and are grabbing unrealistic scenarios.
1 3
-
O
I still hold out hope that CSI Las Vegas will be as good as the first incarnation!
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O
I liked it. It’s good to have a show in Hawaii again. I thought the characters matched the location. Give it a chance it won’t surprise you.
2
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