After what was a truly up and down season when it comes to the character dynamics in Season 22, NCIS Season 3, Episode 3 ‘The Sound and the Fury’ delivers a great hour showcasing the Nick and Jess friendship, and what Jessica Knight has come to mean to this team. That the hour does this while still giving us a pretty solid case, some spooky vibes, and a hint of where the relationship is going for Jessica and Jimmy is just icing on the cake.
NCIS has always known how to do character work, but last season, it felt like they missed an opportunity to use Torres dating Knight’s sister to cement the relationship we actually cared about, which was Knight and Torres. Plus, Season 22 clearly had no clue what to do with Jessica and Jimmy, which meant we got a year-long limbo instead of any actual development, for better or worse. It’s only been three episodes of Season 23, but it already feels like the show knows what it wants to do in Season 23, and that… well, that’s a pretty welcome change.
When it comes to long-running shows like NCIS, maintaining emotional depth and fresh storytelling is no easy feat. Yet, in Season 23, Episode 3, titled “There It Is”, the show manages to strike a perfect balance between gripping procedural drama and heartfelt character evolution. This episode isn’t just another case-of-the-week — it’s a reminder of why NCIS continues to resonate with fans after two decades.
A Deeper Dive into NCIS Season 23, Episode 3
The Case That Binds the Team
Episode 3 kicks off with a seemingly routine investigation — a Navy officer’s mysterious death that hints at espionage. But beneath the procedural surface, the real story unfolds within the team dynamics. Each clue leads not just to the truth about the crime, but to moments of vulnerability, honesty, and human connection among the agents.
Emotional Depth Meets Classic NCIS Suspense
The Balance of Heart and Action
From the first scene, “There It Is” reminds viewers why NCIS remains the gold standard for TV crime dramas. The tension is high, the stakes are real, and yet, it’s the quiet moments that hit hardest. When characters like Nick Torres and Jessica Knight share personal reflections, the audience feels the emotional weight behind their words.
The Writing Shines
What truly stands out in this episode is the writing. Each line feels earned, each pause meaningful. It’s not about flashy action scenes — it’s about the subtle shifts in character that make NCIS feel as alive as ever.
Nick Torres – The Heart of the Episode
Growth Through Pain
Fans have seen Torres struggle before, but in “There It Is”, his emotional journey takes center stage. After his past troubles and personal demons in previous seasons, this episode finally gives him a chance to reflect and move forward. His vulnerability doesn’t make him weak — it makes him real.
The Power of Redemption
Torres’ character arc is a masterclass in redemption. His willingness to open up, trust his team, and confront his past mistakes shows the kind of depth that most shows fail to capture even after years on air.
Jessica Knight – Strength in Stillness
Balancing Professionalism and Emotion
Knight continues to prove she’s one of the strongest additions to the NCIS team. Episode 3 showcases her unique ability to remain calm under pressure while still connecting emotionally with those around her. Her interactions with Torres and McGee are nuanced, layered, and deeply human.
A Subtle Shift
What’s impressive is how Katrina Law (Knight’s portrayer) brings such quiet power to her performance. Without grand gestures, she shows growth — not just as an agent, but as a person navigating the complex emotional terrain of the job.
Tim McGee’s Wisdom Shines Through
The Voice of Experience
McGee has long been the moral compass of NCIS, and this episode reminds us why. He offers wisdom without judgment, advice without ego. His steady presence helps anchor the emotional chaos of the team.
A Mentor, Not a Boss
Instead of asserting authority, McGee leads through empathy — a leadership style that’s become increasingly rare in modern TV dramas.
The Gibbs Legacy Lives On
Echoes of Gibbs’ Philosophy
Even though Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Mark Harmon) is no longer on-screen, his influence continues to shape the team. His rules, his integrity, and his quiet leadership echo throughout “There It Is”. It’s almost as if Gibbs’ spirit still lingers in the bullpen, guiding his team through moral dilemmas.
Director Vance’s Quiet Strength
Balancing Duty and Compassion
Vance has always been a complex character — a man of authority who also carries emotional scars. In this episode, he delivers some of the most powerful dialogue, reflecting on how the job changes people. His conversation with Torres serves as a reminder of the human cost of justice.
A Case That Mirrors the Characters’ Journeys
More Than Just a Crime
What makes NCIS Season 23, Episode 3 special is how the case parallels the characters’ personal struggles. The investigation into deception and misplaced trust resonates deeply with what each agent is facing internally. It’s storytelling at its finest — layered, purposeful, and emotionally grounded.
Cinematic Storytelling and Direction
Visually Captivating
From the way the camera lingers on faces during tense exchanges to the use of lighting during emotional scenes, the direction of this episode is top-tier. It gives the feeling of a cinematic experience rather than just a weekly TV procedural.
The Soundtrack That Amplifies Emotion
Subtle Yet Powerful
The score enhances every beat of tension and every emotional revelation. The use of soft piano melodies during reflective scenes adds a depth of emotion that words alone can’t capture.
Themes of Trust, Healing, and Growth
Lessons That Linger
“There It Is” isn’t just a title — it’s a statement of realization. It represents that moment when everything clicks — when healing begins, when understanding blooms. Each character finds a piece of themselves they didn’t know was missing.
Why This Episode Stands Out
The Perfect Blend of Emotion and Action
After twenty-three seasons, you’d expect NCIS to start showing its age. But this episode proves the opposite. It feels fresh, relevant, and deeply emotional — a rare achievement for a show with such history.
Fans’ Reaction – Social Media Buzz
Emotional Reactions Everywhere
Fans flooded social media with praise for “There It Is.” From heartfelt tweets about Torres’ emotional arc to fan edits celebrating the team’s bond, it’s clear this episode struck a chord. The hashtag #NCIS23x03 trended within hours of airing — proof that the show still knows how to capture hearts.
The Future of NCIS – What Comes Next?
Seeds for Future Storylines
Episode 3 lays groundwork for what could be a transformative season. It hints at deeper emotional explorations and unresolved personal conflicts that promise to make the upcoming episodes even more compelling.
Conclusion – There It Is, Indeed
NCIS Season 23, Episode 3 isn’t just another entry in a long-running series — it’s a statement. A statement that growth, healing, and emotional honesty still matter. Through authentic storytelling and standout performances, this episode reminds us that even after 20+ years, NCIS still has plenty of heart — and plenty of story left to tell.
