Criminal Minds

I do absoloutly love this episode. But watching it again today something I realised was very obvios about it, was that it is PLAINLY based off the murderers, 'Rosemary and Fred West'. Although not completely following their storyline, the similarity was uncannny. I loved that I picked that up, although i'm not sure how many other people actually know who these people are.

The BAU is trying to determine if the Dawes killed more young women than bodies have been found in order to give closure to Florida families. Certainly the concept of “death-bed interviews” is sound – much of the information our guys have about serial killers comes from the mouths of the killers themselves after they are convicted. Although these interviews have got to be stressful and extremely difficult (as is shown in Hotch’s interviews with Jacob), there is that slim possibility that the FBI might get some answers. So Hotch takes on the very, very evil Jacob, and comes away empty. One more body, one more identification, but no real answers.



Gideon’s interviews with Sarah Jean end up going down a whole ‘nother road. Once we learn that Sarah Jean is innocent and Riley is alive, Gideon's goal becomes finding enough evidence to keep Sarah Jean from the electric chair. Even though she doesn’t cooperate, he manages to get the information he needs. But Sarah Jean isn’t saved.



So why is this episode so satisfying? Maybe it’s the contentment that Sarah Jean expresses as she sacrifices her life so her son can grow up without the taint of serial killer parents. Maybe it’s the knowledge that Riley has become a talented and, above all, normal young man in his adoptive home. Or, maybe it’s that final moment when Jacob is in the electric chair and Hotch shows him that his son is alive. Yeah, I think that’s it. You lost, Jacob.

one of the most moving episodes of the season...



I find it very fascinating that this episode is able to portray that not all convicts are guilty. Strange enough, Sarah Jean, the unfortunate wife who was said to take part in assaulting and mutilating teenage girls, willingly let herself be convicted of the crime she didn't commit. She admitted to killing her son in order to protect him. I initially thought that she was protecting her son against her serial killer huband, only to find out near the end that her motivation is deeper; she wants to give her son a new life, away from the complications of being known as the son of a serial killer couple. Jason Gideon showed tears as he was watching the son perform. Touching, his demeanor almost looked maternal. Nice to see him personally affected by the case...

I will readily admit, the fact that Gideon lets Sarah Jean die is probably incredibly unrealistic. Other concerns raised about inaccuracy, however, seem to be based as much on guesswork as to how things "should" be as anything else. The BAU are interviewing the husband and wife because that is one of their side projects, as is mentioned in many episodes both prior and after this one. Sarah Jean was charged with "Accessory to Murder" for at least some of her husband's victims as well as with the murder of her son. And as for whether a mother would actually sacrifice herself for her child... well, I actually feel sorry for the reviewers who felt that it was completely unrealistic.



As I mentioned, Gideon letting Sarah Jean die seemed to me to be the biggest flaw in accuracy for this episode. That being said, it was absolutely necessary for the story to have its full emotional impact. The scene where they lower the hood on Sarah Jean has made me cry every time I watch this episode. It made my boyfriend cry. I don't actually know anyone who didn't cry. And that scene is just the climax, not the only effective scene. The entire story is well-woven throughout the episode and I think you'd have to actively be trying to resist it to not be pulled in by it. The acting is beautifully done both by the guest stars and the regular cast. Overall, a fantastic episode.

Jacob and Sarah Jean Dawes are just thirty-six hours away from execution for the murder of thirteen young, blonde women. Gideon and the team have been invited by the killer couple to interview them and it will be the first time that a husband and wife serial killing team have been evaluated for VICAP.



Jacob Dawes is cocky, self-assured and clearly enjoying all the attention but Sarah Jean is gentle, quiet and withdrawn. Gideon believes that there are several more victims whose bodies have not been located and the BAU not only want information about that but also they want to know why the girls were abducted, tortured and murdered in Jacob's workshop at the back of their house.



When talking with Sarah Jean, (who confessed only to the murder of her two-year-old son, Riley) Gideon is convinced that she is innocent of involvement in the killing of the young women, particularly after a letter recently written to her mother suggests exactly that. As the conversation continues, and after viewing Sarah Jean's paintings, Gideon is certain that Riley Dawes is alive and, if that is indeed the case, then Sarah Jean really is innocent of murder and the BAU race desperately ahead to try and halt her execution. But will they find the evidence in time to save her from Old Sparky?



If you want to see a superbly acted and extreme well written episode of television crime drama then you can't go past this so check it out and enjoy.

This was probably the best, yet most depressing, episode of any television show I have ever watched. It was so amazing from beginning to end. The mother is a true mommy. She is giving up her life so her son can have a good future. I almost cried. The only reason I didn't is because I was watching with my mom and I don't like to cry in front of others. At the end of the episode both my mom and I were so stunned that we just sat there silently for a moment. Then I said, "Oh my gosh. That was so depressing." Neither of us could believe the ending. Amazing!

I am very much speechless and stunned by this episode, which was something so special and unique. The episode was very sad, and the end was really what you call the ultimate sacrifice. What a mother will do for her child - it is just incredible, and very touching.



I am awestruck by this episode. It ywas so sad and the nd was quite upsetting, but at the same time, it was ridiculously high quality television. Simply marvellous!



The acting was spectacular on all fronts, both by the guest cast and the main cast. Simply phenomenal!



Keep it up, Criminal Minds! If this is the type of episode we will see every week, then this show cannot be beaten! I am thoroughly impressed!

I love this show......not only is this a perfect example of a well written criminal investigation show, the story lines are never lacking that dramatic, humanizing touch. The story line tonight will go down in television history as a classic. What an ending, not a dry eye in my house....

Wow. I've viewed other episodes of this series but I must say, this episode brought me to tears. What a sacrifice that a mother's love could run so deep that you would do anything to protect your child. She gave the ultimate sacrifice so that her son could live a life that she could never, ever give him. I can understand her reasoning. Truly touching.

I was so emotionally overcome by this episode. I have always had mixed feelings on the death penalty and this show just surfaced all of that. I majored in Criminal Justice/Corrections, so this is my area and I am fascinated by every aspect of the field. This episode just makes me realize how precious life is or should be.

As usual, this episode kept you tuning in to see what turn was going to happen next. What a moral dilemma to be in. She knew what she was doing and had made peace with herself. What love a mother has for her child. I was happy to see they granted her last request. Now what was the quote he said at the end? I should have written it down. Ugh!

I was extremely moved during this episode. I am a prison volunteer, and have protested execution; a very unpopular position in today's society. There is a bloodthirstiness that really impacts some of the "have nots" in society.



Gideon's involvement and witness of the execution was a very spiritual act. He certainly humanized this prisoner.

It took me a few minutes after this show was off before I leveled out. I have seldom seen an episode of any series that grabbed me like this one. Not only high drama but real art was going on here. Jacob Dawes, the serial killer, evil and controlling, was skillfully balanced by the well developed character of his wife, played hynotically by Jeannetta Arnette. Gideon, true to his nature, has to save her life once he's convinced she's innocent of her husband's killings. But he has to accept her execution when he sees the reasons for her sacrifice. Beautiful!

Nothing to add to the summary



Very well done show. The writers made their point about the ultimate complete love of a mother for her child and sold it through the characters and acting. Much more than a crime show, this episode. The relation to Moses was quite good. This is a solid program.

I love this episode! I couldn't believe I was sobbing out loud by the end of the show. It's very sad and very touching and just full of love. This mixture of feelings can overwhelm you. The sacrifice of the mother reveals the ultimate love of her child. Knowing that she could protect her child from the legacy her husband had caused, she was able to find peace from this ordeal. This is most admirable. I love the quote stated at the very end; it took me a while to find the actual quote on the web. "What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains and is immortal." -- Albert Pine

This episode was great because it showed that the show can do much more than the usual \"save the victim in time\" premise. It also showed Gideon as a \"do the right thing\" type of guy. Hopefully, the added range will keep this good series going. A good example of finding warmth in a cold, cold case.

I\'ve always loved this new show, but this episode really brings it to another level. A very touching ending, not your typical Hollywood happy ending.



\"Sarah Jean\" (not sure what\'s her real name) gives an outstanding performance. She really brings the character to life.



Definitely an award worthy episode!

You knew when Gideon was interviewing Sarah Jean that the boy was still alive. You could feel her heart break when she learned about the 14 year old victim. You felt sorry for Sarah Jean's mother. Especially when you saw what was spray painted on her house. I'm glad they respected her last wishes in regards to her son. My favorite scene was when Hotch showed the father the picture of Riley right as he was about to die.

The way they turned the concept of deathrow interviews into a countdown mystery was amazing. The play between Gideon and Sara Jean was of course wonderful; But I was also rivited the Hotch interview, exspecially the way JJ jumped in. I like her better every episode. A can't look away episode from beginning to end.

This episode was not my favorite to watch and did have holes left to fill, but the political and moral statement it made was refreshing. The plotline was innovative, and offered a beginning to empathy for people who have ended up down the wrong path in life. I appreciated it. The character development was well done, and really personified people who we have easily written off as demons.

Best episode so far. Great casting for the \"killer couple\". Great performance on both their parts. Excellent story line with a haunting ending. Really set me back in my seat and gave me plenty of food for thought. What an ending! I didn\'t think Gideon had it in him, but he surprised me. Keep it up guys. You got a winner going for you.

I did note one error: After the curtain opens, Sarah Jean is not given the chance to speak any final words. It could have ruined the moment with the music, I suppose, but I'm sure she could have said something at that time.



I'm glad they didn't do a straight shot from Patinkin watching her to watching her son. It was nice to have the cello transition.



This was the best episode. It will be hard to top. I do hope they get rid of Elle, though. She bugs me. I hated how she said to the lawyer, "I'm sorry, who are you exactly?" She said it like a challenge, even though Gideon and the others seemed comfy with his presence. I just don't like the character at all. She also dresses so inappropriately, doesn't have facial expressions. Blech! But at least I can fast forward through her scenes.

I watch a ridiculous amount of television and was completely spellbound by this episode of Criminal Minds.



Jeannetta Arnette offers an amazingly powerful guest performance as Sarah Jean. The dynamic between her and Mandy Pantinkin (Gideon) is so emotional and entrancing, it moves one to tears. It was played with pathos and sensitivity as well as deep understanding that went beyond words.



Hopefully, the appropriate parties will see this and submit Jeannetta\'s and Mandy\'s performance in this episode for an Emmy ... because it will win ... I\'m sure of it!



In any case, the above actors are to be congratulated for extraordinary performances.

All I can say is that this kind of episode is totally not what I expected from this show from the season so far. A real tear-terker from an unexpected storyline gave me one of the best TV episode experiences of the recent offerings across the board.



Fantastic... Really good!

This had to have been the best episode of Criminal Minds they have produced. The way Sarah Jean was willing to make the ultimate sacrifice to keep her son safe and happy was one the best and saddest things I have seen. She allowed her love for Riley to bring her peace with her decision when she first brought him to his adoptive parents, and while on death row awaiting execution.



It was heartbreaking for the team to allow her to go through with it, instead of allowing them to get her a stay of execution. I think Gideon and Hotch may have had the hardest time with accepting Sarah Jean’s decision to be executed, because– being fathers themselves- they understand the love she feels and the need to protect her son from something that could disrupt his life when he’s safe and happy where he is. They did everything they could to keep her alive, but had no choice with her decision to keep the truth from her son so he could remain at peace with his life.



At the end when Morgan finally just tells Riley’s (Byron Sheffield) father (Frank)that he and Elle have the wrong house, I think he realizes that this is about Sarah Jean. When they adopted Riley, at least Frank may have been asked by Sarah Jean that Riley could not ever know about her so that he would not be plagued with the knowledge that his mother allowed his father to kill young girls, even though she did not know what Jacob was actually doing.

You could tell Gideon really like Sarah Jean. He really wanted to prove her innocent. I feel so bad that she had to die. I wish she had lived.



She wanted to protect Riley from finding out the past of his parents. She didn't want his life to be ruined because of his father being a kidnapper and murderer. She was a devoted mother to Riley. She wanted him to live a normal life. I think she deserves some kind of award for her outstanding performance. This episode really brought out Gideon's emotional side. I loved this awesome episode!

I love Criminal Minds and I still enjoyed the episode, but it really didn't do much for me. I liked the development but I found my mind wandering as I watched it. I think I might be the only Criminal Minds fan who didn't absolutely love this episode. I think the ending killed it for me though. I'm one of those people who loves torture episodes but I like happy endings... I guess some people might say it was happy as everyone got what they wanted... but I just couldn't believe they'd let her go in there and die. *sigh*

I watched this episode thinking it would be usual run of mill confession at last minute type of stuff.



Wow how wrong could I have been . As the story unwinds you feel empathy for the mother about to go to her execution and the people around her chase frantically to help her although she never wants it ,leading her to make the ultimate sacrifice for the greater good she believes in.







This episode alone should be held up as an example of how good tv can be when done properly.

It took me a while to figure out what's going on the first half of the show... as, it's somehow different from the rest of the episode I have watched before, ie. to catch the criminal as to prevent the next murder to take place... this one is... not so much to 'prevent'.. that's why it took me a while, as there wasn't a recent murder case...



The next half took my full attetion as Gideon was trying his best to save Sarah Jean... her look is just too sad to look at, and lastly she mentioned to Gideon, "my life ended the day I met Jack"... ooh, it made me wanted to cry...



As most of the TV crime cases recently are about over-protective and obsessive mothers... I rarely see such a self-sacrificing mother..



Sarah Jean decided 15 years ago, to go to jail with Jack, on a death penalty... to protect her own son Riley... it's so sad... as there're so many other mothers who claim that they'll do whatever it takes to protect their children, but the last thing they think about is for the real good of their children, and also to give up their life totally, and speaking about giving up her life, Sarah Jean gave it up for a duration of 15 years, that's a long wait, and that's torturing for her soul... what I am saying is, for some mothers, to give up maybe easier to give it up instantly, rather than to give it up in such a slow pace, 15 years.



I was glad that Gideon made a good choice, as not to tell the kid(Riley) to come forward... usually one will insist in doing that, to get the kid to come forward, just for self-justification and nothing else... but Gideon really thought for Sarah, and Riley, and Riley's current parents... as Sarah said, what good will it do, to let Riley knows who his real parents were.



This story tells about a very self-less person's life...

I have watched this one several times, having taped it the first time it reran, and now I have it on the DVDs. It is so well acted and so well written that I would suspect this was an episode that would have been submitted for a possible EMMY award. My wife cries every time we watch this. The two guest stars who play the executed couple are the real stars, along with Mandy Patinkin. Most moving moments, in my opinion, are the scene were Sarah asks Gideon to be the last face she sees, and the scene at the house where Morgan has gone to find the child, and when Gideon tells him through Hotch that it\'s \"the wrong house,\" and he backs off, the father\'s statement of \"thank you\" to the agents tells us everything. This is my favorite episode of season one.