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« David's Numbers Blog
Lucky "Thirteen"
"Velocity" written by the series creators, husband and wife, Nicholas Falacci and Cheryl Heuton, and directed by Fred Koeller, is an episode that reveals the deadly truth about street racing. Recently, a young mother and her two young children were struck and killed by a racing motorist in L.A. The episode's Oct. 12 airing was timely, albeit horribly unfortunate. Nic and Cheryl have written our most conscienscious episodes. "Hardball" from Season 3, was an episode that exposed the dangers of steroid abuse amongst pro athletes. "Protest" starred legendary actor Robert Forster as an FBI agent who is desperate to conceal his corrupt past, until Don Eppes figures out that he was part of a much larger, true to life government conspiracy put into action in the late 60's to counteract the anti-war movement in the United States, a subject long considered to Taboo to cover. And in "Money For Nothing", Nic and Cheryl presented the plight of struggling African Nations in their attempts to deliver medical care to their citizens. I think it's highly admirable that these two writers tackle this heavy subject matter time and again within the context of a little show that solves crimes with math. Velocity features incredible stunts, and a brilliant guest appearance by actor Chris Bauer who plays engineer Ray Ray Galuski. A very different image of your typical science and engineering "nerd". I had an awesome time working with him, and there are plans to bring him back to the show in a future episode.
"Thirteen" written by Don McGill and directed by Ralph Hemecker, is a tentpole episode of our show. What I mean is, that when this show was concieved, it was inevitable that we would do an episode about Biblical Numerology, what with the popularity of The Da Vinci Code, and the emergence of Kabbalism as a religious philosophy. The episode explores a serial killer's desire to be considered a modern day biblical martyr, and the lengths he goes to, to make his presence known. My character has to decipher the numerological code the killer leaves behind in his messages, to discover the true motive behind his killings. The episode is dark, disturbing, downright frightening, and is a brilliant example of the series' strengths. The twisting plotline, the intense manhunt, the imperative use of intellect to solve the crime. A difficult night of sleep lies ahead for our fans who are used to our usual, somewhat lighter fare. This one will linger with you. The writer, Don McGill (who happens to be the creator of the popular CBS series NCIS) is known around the set as the guy who writes the gory, deranged episodes of our show. With "Thirteen", he has outdone himself. And if you can believe it, he couldn't be a nicer, gentler guy. It's always the nice quiet ones you have to watch out for. It's rare after having filmed almost 70 episodes of this show, to pinpoint an episode as one of my personal favorites. This one joins that exclusive club along with only a handful of episodes. I'm very much looking forward to reading the fan's reactions to this one.
This season, the series has clearly hit it's storytelling stride. Breaking out of formula, a greater freedom expressed in the writing. I think this season is our best so far, and I am thrilled that the show has grown so much. I have always believed in my heart of hearts, that this show has tremendous potential. The potential to surpass the cliches of other crime procedurals and set itself apart from the rest of the pack. So far this season, we are making great strides toward fulfilling that potential. So keep watching. This season will surprise and delight.
CBS' Numbers airs Fridays at 10 pm/ET.
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Oct 20, 2007 10:35 AM
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I have watched Numb3rs since day one and I agree it is one of the most well written and acted shows on TV. It is definately Emmy worthy. David,(Charlie), has one of the most amazing faces around. He can say more with a look than most people can say talking all day. One minute he is a scared and frightened little boy you want to hug and protect the next a cool confident teacher and consultant. It is magical to watch. When he gets together with the rest of the team it is a sight to behold. I love the comedy duo he does with his teacher friend and mentor Larry on the show. Talk about funny. I laugh so hard I cry.
One of the things that I love is the growing bond between him and his older brother Don that is growing each week. Charlie adores Don and finally they are beginning to understand each other. Growing up like they did was hard, a genius that graduated the same year as his older brother. Alan Eppes, the grounding force, the Father is so amazing to watch too. Every kid in America should have a father to repect them as let them be their own person like he did.
You have to watch this show to fully appreciate it. The FBI Team is so brilliantly played by a team of actors that to me have no equals right now. Diane Farr had an eppesode that should get her an Emmy nomination. Her eyes were blazing last night with a passion that new no bounds. All the actors on this show do this every week for us. Dylan Bruno and Alimi Ballard have me crying each week lately. Their storyline was heartbreaking and tender a the same time.
You have to see this show to see the delight they give their fans each week. I will not miss not one eppesode. I look forward to this show every week. Comedy, Drama, Romance, you laugh, you cry. what more could anyone want in a show.
David Krumholtz, you deserve all our love and support. Thank You for your portrayal of Charlie Eppes. You do us proud, and We do love you. We love Nick and Cheryl too for Creating the Best TV show around.
CBS, We thank You for this show. You only give us the best.
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Oct 20, 2007 1:51 PM
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I love this show - the wit, the intelligence, and the interplay of the characters always leaves me with a smile on my face at the end. Not this time, though.
'Thirteen' was so dark and heavy it shocked me. Plus, Charlie was so snotty and disdainful of both a colleague and his dad I couldn't believe it - I felt sorry for David having to play Charlie that way.
The plot was brilliant, combining pure math with numerology, but the crime was so horrific it needed further exposition as to why and how it could happen. Plus there were so many side-issues thrown in that it really should have been a 2 or 3-part mini-arc.
As it was, I was left confused and unbelieving and without the usual feeling of family warmth and camaradarie at the end.
I'm sorry, but this episode wasn't up to the standard I expect from one of the best shows on TV.
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Oct 20, 2007 3:10 PM
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Thanks for the blog David. Numb3rs is my favorite show!
Its great to have a behind the scenes take on the episodes.
Can you answer us this: Where is Millie and is she coming back?
Also, I agree Chris Bauer was great last week and I'm glad he will return.
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Oct 20, 2007 4:57 PM
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Hi David,
I was delighted when I read you were going to be doing a celebrity blog. I've been watching the show since the beginning and I love it. Even though the math is mostly over my head, it gives the show a different spin from the other crime procedurals.
I agree that the show this season has grown in its storytelling with more interesting cases. Last night's episode was, I think, the best yet (and with Mozart's Requiem as the soundtrack yet!). I'll have to watch it a couple of more times to even begin to understand the numerology aspects of the plot, but it was a big leap in complexity and sophistication. It was also good to finally learn about what has been spooking Megan so much in regards to her DC assignment.
One aspect of the show that I really like is the family interaction. Even the most disturbing cases are leavened by the home-life scenes.
Thanks for the blog, David. I'm looking forward to reading your insights during the rest of the season.
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Oct 20, 2007 6:46 PM
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Thanks for blogging, David. I've been watching the show since the first episode and it's a great Friday-night show.
I did think that "Thirteen" was way too gory...I can't stomach that kind graphic stuff. But the numerology was fun!
And please bring back Ray Ray. He was a breath of fresh air.
Looking forward to more blogging. This season is very promising so far.
P.S. Please don't let them break up Megan and Larry.
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Oct 20, 2007 7:51 PM
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Big fan of Numb3rs. I think the more the show uses math in the crimes and the less it is a standard crime procedural the better. I also love the characters and the relationships between them. The family dynamic is great. Great cast, great writing, keep it going!
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Oct 20, 2007 9:54 PM
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It's nice to see you around the blogosphere! I've been part of the political blogging scene since 2002, but it's nice to come over here and read about what's happening on the series. What I love most about Numb3rs is that it's accessible and never dumbed down. Truly a magical combination.
Saw 'Thirteen' last night. Really dark, exceptionally insightful, and punctuated with really amusing lines.
I loved your response to Judd Hirsch when he asked how kids can do it, and you had the correct answer: "They're kids!"
Welcome again 
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Oct 21, 2007 12:46 AM
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I have been watching Numb3rs from the beginning and I have to agree that this episode was different from the usual type of story that we are used to. I found it difficult to watch parts of it, Some scenes were too graphic for me. I liked the fact that there were still several family scenes which are my favorite parts of the show.
I think it's great that you are taking the time to write this column so we can get a different point of view about the show. I think you did a great job with your first column and I look forward to reading more columns in the future.
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Oct 21, 2007 1:37 AM
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David,
Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to blog for us (can blog be a verb?). It's always interesting to get the opinions of someone who's actually involved in creating one of my favorite TV shows.
I have to say that "Thirteen" is now one of my favorite episodes. Not only was the crime story part of it incredible, you guys also found time -- somehow -- to do some very nice character development.
This season had indeed surprised and delighted so far, and we're only 4 episodes in! Keep up the good work!
I look forward to your next entry here.
Jo
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Oct 21, 2007 9:46 AM
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HEY DAVID 
"Thirteen" is definitely up there as one of my favorite episodes. It was great to see Charlie and the religion professor go at it over whether numerology was math or not.
Numb3rs remains my favorite show of ALL TIME.
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Oct 21, 2007 1:55 PM
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Really love "Numbers" and have from the beginning. Sorry, though-------"Thirteen" was too far afield from what I've come to expect. Am just not into torture and graphic gore. (That's why Criminal Minds is not on my watch list). Hope that there won't be anymore of that genre on the show. Was also a bit disappointed in the put down of a colleague. Also David, could we return to last years "look"? Charlie is looking a bit too grungy. The hair is fine but you do "clean up" nicely! ) My favorite parts are still the interactions with family!!
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Oct 21, 2007 2:39 PM
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David,
Thank you for taking time out of what must be a busy schedule to give the fans of Numb3rs your thoughts on the show. I just love this show, it's got everything a person could want it.
Thirteen was beyond disturbing but you know, there are some truly sick people out there and I'm glad that the writers and producers of Numb3rs are willing to show them (at least as far as you can on tv).
Thank you and everyone on Numb3rs for the excellent job you all do. I look forward to each episode.
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Oct 21, 2007 3:51 PM
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Hi, David!
I've been a Numb3rs fan since the first episode ~ have never missed one ~ and have enjoyed all except ~ yes, Thirteen. Interesting, definitely, but a bit too gruesome for me.
You are terrific as Charlie ~ and I love your 'look' this season. Shaving is overrated.
I'm glad to hear that Chris Bauer will be back as Ray Ray ~ a nice addition to the cast. And are the writers setting up a Ray Ray-Megan romance, hmmm? For me, she & Larry have come to the end of the road with nowhere to go.
Best wishes to you and everyone on the show.
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Oct 21, 2007 6:51 PM
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This is awesome! I was so happy when I saw in the TV Guide that you were doing a blog. I enjoyed your comments on the DVDs and I enjoyed reading about your thoughts on the show. I'm interested in which episodes that you particularly liked and why they appealed to you.
Thirteen was definitely darker than the usual episodes, but it had a solid plot and some great moments.
I liked the debate about whether numerology was actual math or not.
I liked Amita's teasing about the 'hot' numerology professor. And I loved the 'Amita-vision'!
The double dating scenes were fun to watch, too. It made for a nice mood lightner.
I really liked the business with Alan's homework. I can see him having problems with it and I can see how tempting it would be for Charlie to just DO the work for him.
I think it's wonderful that Charlie and Alan were able to discuss the situation. Every episode it seems like we see the characters grow more.
One of the many reasons why I like Numb3rs is because there is a lot of thought that goes into it and not just into the math. I like that the show tries to look at social and family issues from more than one perspective.
Another reason is the fact that the show portrays intelligent characters as being able to make a difference in the world rather just sitting in ivory towers working on theories that have no connection to real life.
I guess what it boils down to is that watching Numb3rs makes me feel intelligent.
Looking forward to the next episode and your next blog!
Jill
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Oct 21, 2007 6:54 PM
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