5 Movie References in NCIS You Probably Didn’t Catch During First Watch
Even if you're an NCIS enthusiast, a movie buff, or both, these movies might have flown under your radar.
NCIS ’ appeal lies not just in the gripping crime investigations and character dynamics, but also in the cheeky pop culture references sprinkled throughout the series. While some of these nods are glaringly obvious, others are subtle winks to the world of cinema.
The Godfather
In episode 5 of season 2, Mafia personnel are on the FBI's radar, and one of them is nicknamed Abe after Abe Vigoda’s role in The Godfather. Here's a fun catch: Tony and FBI's Charles reenact a scene from the movie featuring characters Tom Hagen (Robert Duvall) and Sal Tessio (Abe Vigoda). Quite the homage to a classic.
Friday the 13th
Abby makes a quirky remark in the episode Conspiracy Theory. Hearing a soundtrack of voices, she says it immediately reminded her of Friday the 13th. Another sneaky nod is in the episode Murder 2.0, where Marine Sergeant Jack Burrell has the same name as Kevin Bacon's character from the iconic film.
Top Gun
In the 13th episode of season 20, Kasie Hines jokes about the unreality of television. Yet, in a cool twist, NCIS brings in some authentic flavor. Director Leon Vance shares an interesting tidbit about how Tom Cruise met a fighter pilot while filming the original Top Gun. Cruise later arranged a flight experience for the cast of Top Gun: Maverick.
North By Northwest
Season 9’s episode Enemy on the Hill brings us a mysterious name — George Kaplan. As the episode unfolds, Tony can't shake off the feeling he's heard it before. And then it clicks. George Kaplan is the imaginary CIA agent from Alfred Hitchcock's classic North By Northwest.
Pulp Fiction
Fans of Quentin Tarantino, this one’s for you. Ziva points out a store named Jack Rabbit Slim’s, mirroring the restaurant from Pulp Fiction. And DiNozzo, the movie guru, is impressed with Ziva's movie knowledge. But it doesn't stop there.
In the same episode, Abby receives a mysterious gift from Gibbs. The unopened box shines with a golden hue, and viewers are left guessing its contents. Abby says, “This is so Pulp Fiction.” We totally agree, Abby.