What I’m Watching: True Blood

True Blood: Season 2, Episode 11 “Frenzy” (B+)

This episode is hardly the strongest of the season, but that’s not taking it down too much. I like Bill’s usually serious demeanor, and while his funnier material was entertaining at first, at this point it’s become a bit repetitive and far less exciting than his dramatic work. Having him just stand around when things are awkward makes them infinitely more awkward (first demonstrated several weeks ago when he was avoiding talking to Sookie and blocking Jason out the door). I’m disappointed with the guest star I had so anticipated last week – Evan Rachel Wood, who was so great in movies like “Thirteen” but doesn’t show quite the same skill here. Maybe it’s that I’m tired of these ancient vampires who are so incredibly young, and Godric was so magnificent that he’s unmatchable. Something about Wood’s portrayal of the queen didn’t do it for me, and with the exception of the fantastic visual introduction of her last week, she wasn’t nearly as memorable or terrific as I had hoped. Fortunately, next week may provide her with excellent material with Eric, and that could be a lot better. The interaction between Bill and Eric don’t sparkle with quite as much tension as they used to, but I haven’t given up hope yet. Back in Bon Temps, things are getting quite interesting. Sam’s decision to turn to Eric was very intriguing. I don’t know how Sookie, aided only by Sam and the hapless duo of Andy and Jason, can possibly get rid of Maryann, short of an army of vampires similar to the one that showed up at the church a few weeks ago. Two weeks from now is the season finale, and I’m pretty excited.