Quick Take: The Mentalist, "His Thoughts Were Red Thoughts"
Jane helps prove the innocence of cult leader Bret Stiles.
Review: The Mentalist, "His Thoughts Were Red Thoughts"
(S0416) Here's a tip. If you don't want people to think your church is a cult, don't convince your members to literally stand up to the police when you're being arrested. It might be a cool power trip but it really makes you look culty.
Watching Malcolm McDowell is a real treat. Whether he's playing a creepy cult leader, time traveling author or an eccentric lawyer, there is a sense of humor about him. I get the feeling that he's always laughing at the audience for some reason. It makes for some very interesting performances.
As I watch this episode it occurs to me that Patrick Jane (Simon Baker) is a lot like the detective version of House. He's extremely self-centered. He thrives on conflict. He only cares about interesting cases and he loves to manipulate people. Going further, the CBI team mirrors House's team as well. Lisbon (Robin Tunney) is the attractive boss for whom Jane has respect and affection but refuses to take orders from, much like Dr. Cuddy (Lisa Edelstein). The similarities continue from there. I suppose it's simply a blueprint for television dramas, but I'm surprised that I never noticed the comparisons before.
Once Jane figured out what Stiles was doing, it was a little tedious watching the plan unfold. The most interesting part of the episode came at the end when Jane admitted that he wanted Stiles to owe him a favor. While I'm positive that favor has something to do with Red John, I'm very intrigued to find out what it will be.
I found the similarities, from the very beginning in the pilot! Actually, I said to my friends: he's like House but more charming and funnier!
Speaking of that, now, it ocurres to me that House has set a precedent for brilliant characters who are self-centered and manipulative and also usually are the smartest person on the room. Gregory House surely made his mark as great TV character. :)
Also, while House is physically damaged, Jane is emotionally damaged having had his wife nd daughter nmurdered. Both are victims of their own hubris. Interesting.