Criminal Minds is a thrilling crime drama that has been captivating audiences for over a decade. With its sharp writing, intricate character development, and intense storylines, the show has cemented its place as a fan favourite.
Over the years, Criminal Minds has given us some truly unforgettable moments. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the 10 greatest episodes of Criminal Minds, each one an example of the show’s masterful storytelling. As usual, you can let us know your thoughts in the comments below:
“Derailed” (Season 1, Episode 9)
In “Derailed”, the team is called in to investigate a series of murders that occur on a train. The killer, who has a history of sexual abuse, targets women travelling alone. This episode is a great example of Criminal Minds at its best, with a tense and gripping storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
The team has to race against the clock to catch the killer before he strikes again, and the episode is full of intense moments as they try to piece together the killer’s motives and methods. The climax of the episode, when the killer is finally apprehended, is one of the most satisfying moments in the entire series.
“The Fisher King, Part 1” (Season 1, Episode 22)
“The Fisher King, Part 1” is a two-part episode that is considered one of the best in the entire series. When a killer starts leaving clues that lead to a treasure hunt, the team realizes that they are dealing with someone who is playing a twisted game.
The episode is full of suspenseful moments as they try to solve the puzzles left by the killer, and the final scene, in which the killer attacks Hotch, is one of the most shocking in the show’s history.
“The Fisher King, Part 2” (Season 2, Episode 1)
“The Fisher King, Part 2” picks up where the first part left off, with Hotch in critical condition after being attacked by the killer. The team must rush to save Hotch and stop the killer from carrying out his final plan.
The episode is full of twists and turns, and the final showdown between the team and the killer is an incredibly intense moment in the series. But the heart of the episode is the emotional journey that Hotch endures as he confronts the trauma of his attack.
“Profiler, Profiled” (Season 2, Episode 12)
“Profiler, Profiled” is a standout episode that focuses on Hotch’s backstory. When Hotch’s family is threatened by a killer he put behind bars years ago, he is forced to confront the demons of his past.
The episode features an excellent guest performance by James Van Der Beek as the killer, who is equal parts charming and terrifying. But the best part of the episode is Hotch’s journey, as he struggles to balance his duty as an FBI agent with his responsibilities as a husband and father.
“Coda” (Season 6, Episode 16)
“Coda” is a standout episode that focuses on Reid and his relationship with music. When the team investigates a series of murders that seem to be connected to a local orchestra, Reid discovers that he has a special connection to the case.
The episode is a great showcase for Matthew Gray Gubler’s skills as an actor, and the scenes in which Reid plays the piano are some of the most moving in the show’s history. The climax of the episode, in which Reid confronts the killer, is tense and emotional, and it’s a great example of how Criminal Minds can use character moments to drive the story forward.
“The Big Game” (Season 2, Episode 14)
“The Big Game” is one of the most action-packed episodes of Criminal Minds. When a young boy is abducted by a killer who forces his victims to play a deadly game of cat and mouse, the team must race to save him.
The episode is full of tense moments as the team tries to figure out the killer’s next move, and the action scenes are some of the best in the show’s history. But the heart of the episode is the relationship between the boy and the team, as they work together to outsmart the killer and bring him to justice.
“Minimal Loss” (Season 4, Episode 3)
“Minimal Loss” is a unique episode of Criminal Minds that takes place mostly outside of the usual FBI setting. When the team is sent to investigate a religious cult, they find themselves taken hostage along with the cult’s members.
The episode is tense and claustrophobic, as the team navigates the volatile dynamics of the cult while also trying to find a way out. The standout performances by the guest cast, including Luke Perry and Bellamy Young, add to the episode’s intensity.
“Revelations” (Season 2, Episode 15)
“Revelations” is a very intense episode of Criminal Minds. In this one, Reid is kidnapped by a serial killer who tortures him in an attempt to “purify” his soul. This episode is a showcase of Matthew Gray Gubler’s acting skills, as he portrays Reid’s fear and desperation with chilling authenticity.
The killer in “Revelations” is one of the sickest in the show’s history, and his methods of torture are difficult to watch at times. But the episode is not just about shock value – it’s also a character study of Reid, who is forced to confront his own demons and weaknesses in order to survive.
“100” (Season 5, Episode 9)
“100” is a milestone episode celebrating the show’s history while also moving the story forward. The team tracks down a killer that’s targeting people who were previously involved in one of their cases.
The episode is full of callbacks to earlier episodes, and it’s a great opportunity for fans to see how the characters have grown and changed over the years. The standout moment of the episode is when the team finally catches the killer, and the tension is palpable as they rush to save the latest victim.
“The Lesson” (Season 8, Episode 10)
“The Lesson” is an episode that focuses on JJ and her past. When a former friend from her military days is killed, JJ is forced to confront the trauma that she experienced during her time in the service.
The episode also shows off how good of an actor AJ Cook is, with her scenes being emotional and powerful. The final scene, where JJ visits the grave of her friend, is a great example of the depth and story development that Criminal Minds has.
There we have it, our list of 10 best Criminal Minds episodes. What do you think about our picks? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below: