Introduction: Recreating the Past, Creating the Future
‘NCIS: Origins’ has been bringing fans of the long-running NCIS franchise back to the earlier days of the iconic series, and one of the most gripping moments from the latest season has been the recreation of a key scene involving Gibbs and Franks. In an exclusive video, Austin Stowell—who plays a younger version of Mike Franks—talks about the intricacies of bringing a pivotal moment back to life. This scene revolves around Pedro Hernandez, a character whose actions continue to haunt both Gibbs and Franks.
But what went into recreating this tense and emotional scene? Stowell shares insights that not only shed light on the acting process but also how it ties into the overarching narrative of ‘NCIS: Origins.’ Let’s dive into Stowell’s thoughts, behind-the-scenes details, and why this scene is pivotal for fans of both NCIS and its spin-off.
The Power of Recreating Classic Moments in ‘NCIS: Origins’
When a franchise as beloved as NCIS goes back to explore its roots, the challenge isn’t just about telling a fresh story—it’s about honoring the legacy. The dynamics between Gibbs and Franks have been central to the original NCIS series, making their interactions in NCIS: Origins all the more crucial. Austin Stowell, who portrays a younger Mike Franks, shares that his approach to these iconic moments is not just about mimicking the past but ensuring the emotional depth is felt by the audience in a modern context.
Austin Stowell: Stepping Into Mike Franks’ Shoes
Mike Franks is a character who, despite his tough exterior, carries deep emotional scars. When Stowell was first asked to portray him in NCIS: Origins, he knew the stakes were high. “It wasn’t just about mimicking Mark Harmon’s portrayal,” Stowell explains. “It was about understanding the essence of Franks—his pain, his loyalty, and his history with Gibbs.”
This careful attention to character nuance is key to how Stowell brings Franks to life. He spent hours watching old NCIS episodes and analyzing the subtleties of Franks’ interactions with Gibbs, hoping to capture that same unspoken bond. “It was about the silence between them, the respect. You could feel it in every scene they shared,” says Stowell.
Pedro Hernandez: The Catalyst for the Emotional Scene
Pedro Hernandez is not just another name in the NCIS universe; he’s a figure whose actions have profound implications on both Gibbs and Franks. Stowell discusses how the character of Hernandez has been haunting both men, even years after his actions were first revealed. The recreation of the key moment around Hernandez serves as an emotional anchor for the characters.
In the video, Stowell emphasizes how the scene is not only critical for plot development but also serves to deepen the emotional core of the show. “Pedro Hernandez symbolizes the darkness that they both carry, and that darkness is never easy to confront,” he says.
How ‘NCIS: Origins’ Successfully Balances Legacy and Innovation
While recreating such an emotional and iconic scene from the original series could have been a daunting task, NCIS: Origins has managed to strike a delicate balance between honoring the legacy of the original NCIS series and bringing something fresh to the table. Austin Stowell notes that the series’s writers and directors were meticulous about capturing the essence of the scene while ensuring that it fit seamlessly into the context of Origins.
“The balance was tricky,” he says, “but it was essential. We wanted to make sure that long-time fans would recognize the stakes, but also give new viewers the chance to feel the tension and history between Gibbs and Franks.”
The Director’s Vision: Bringing Tension to the Screen
The director of this particular episode of NCIS: Origins played an instrumental role in crafting the intensity of the scene. According to Stowell, the director’s vision was to bring out the emotional complexity of both characters as they confront the repercussions of Pedro Hernandez’s actions.
One of the most challenging aspects of recreating the moment was capturing the psychological weight of the situation. “This wasn’t just about physical acting; it was about conveying the mental toll,” Stowell shares. The team used close-ups, dramatic lighting, and strategic pacing to heighten the emotional impact, ensuring that viewers could feel the weight of every word and gesture.
Behind-the-Scenes: How Austin Stowell Prepares for Intense Scenes
For an actor, the preparation for emotionally charged scenes like this one is crucial. Stowell reveals that his preparation involved not only reading the script but also connecting with the history of NCIS and understanding the relationship between Gibbs and Franks on a personal level. He explains, “I had to understand their history, how far they’ve come, and where the unresolved tension lies.”
In addition to studying past NCIS episodes, Stowell also worked closely with the other cast members, especially the actor portraying young Gibbs, to ensure that the chemistry between the two was authentic. “We rehearsed together, talked through the scene, and made sure we were on the same page emotionally,” Stowell says.
Recreating the Moment: The Impact on Fans and Characters
When it comes to pivotal moments in a show as loved as NCIS, it’s important that these scenes resonate with the audience. Fans of NCIS are not only attached to the characters but also to the emotional depth of the narrative. The recreated scene with Gibbs and Franks does more than just highlight the stakes of their relationship—it also serves as a poignant moment for fans who have followed these characters over the years.
The decision to revisit the Pedro Hernandez storyline is a deliberate one, as it provides both a reminder of the past and a glimpse into the ongoing challenges the characters face.
The Legacy of Gibbs and Franks: A Bond That Transcends Time
As Stowell reflects on his role in NCIS: Origins, he emphasizes the importance of the legacy between Gibbs and Franks. Their bond is more than just professional—it’s personal. “Franks was a father figure to Gibbs, and their bond is unlike anything I’ve ever seen on screen,” Stowell explains. This relationship, built on years of shared experiences, is one of the driving forces of the scene and provides the emotional heart of the show.
What’s Next for ‘NCIS: Origins’?
With the success of this pivotal scene, fans are eager to know what comes next in NCIS: Origins. Stowell teases that the series will continue to explore more of Gibbs’ backstory and delve deeper into the emotional moments that shaped him into the agent fans know and love today.
“The emotional depth is just beginning,” says Stowell. “There are a lot of layers to uncover, and I think the fans will appreciate the journey we’re about to take them on.”
Conclusion: A Perfect Blend of Old and New
In summary, Austin Stowell’s portrayal of Mike Franks in NCIS: Origins brings new life to the character, while respecting the legacy of the original NCIS series. His insights into the process of recreating the pivotal scene about Pedro Hernandez offer fans a deeper understanding of the emotional complexity behind the show. Whether you’re a longtime fan of NCIS or a newcomer to Origins, this episode showcases the power of storytelling and character development, as well as the deep bond between Gibbs and Franks that continues to resonate with audiences.
FAQs:
1. What is the significance of Pedro Hernandez in ‘NCIS: Origins’? Pedro Hernandez plays a crucial role in the backstory of both Gibbs and Franks. His actions have haunted the characters, shaping their emotional and psychological journeys.
2. How did Austin Stowell prepare for his role as Mike Franks? Stowell prepared by watching past NCIS episodes, understanding the nuances of Franks’ character, and rehearsing intensely with the cast to ensure the chemistry between him and young Gibbs was authentic.
3. Will there be more flashbacks to Gibbs and Franks’ past in ‘NCIS: Origins’? Yes, NCIS: Origins will continue to explore the emotional backstories of Gibbs and Franks, providing fans with a deeper understanding of their bond.
4. How does ‘NCIS: Origins’ differ from the original ‘NCIS’ series? NCIS: Origins focuses on the early years of the characters, delving into their pasts and providing new insights into their personalities, while still honoring the legacy of the original series.
5. Can fans expect more emotional scenes like the one between Gibbs and Franks? Absolutely! NCIS: Origins is committed to delivering more emotionally charged scenes that explore the complex relationships between characters, ensuring fans stay engaged with the show.
