Boss: Season 2, Episode 10 “True Enough” (A-)
This show just doesn’t stop pulling surprises and major, game-changing turns that make its universe all the more watchable. Meredith becoming the new alderman was hardly the most notable of all the political appointments in this hour, as Kitty managed to come back and work for Tom despite the fact that she was wearing a wire. Doyle himself revealed to Zajac that he would be running against Tom, and Claire therefore would get to move up to his position despite Doyle failing to express his gratitude. Things are certainly looking up for Zajac, as his wife even came back to him, showing her support for his eventual run for the presidency. Though many people experienced downfalls in this episode, none was worse than Sam’s, after he played right into Tom’s hands and got his story refuted and his reputation destroyed because he paid for information. His loyal coworker Jackie wasn’t even up to helping when she knew that Tom was in fact sick. Kitty’s decision to go back and work for Tom because it’s where she belongs is both fascinating and disturbing, and the way she spoke to Dr. Harris about conscience was cruel and scathing. Preparing to handle the public revelation of Tom’s disease allowed for a terrific amount of transparency so rarely seen on this show, and Kitty is going to be a great asset to Tom now that she knows about his condition and has seen it in action. Ian’s aspirations were squashed by Tom’s cruelty, and he didn’t seem bothered by Emma’s discovery of the fact that they were half-siblings. It was a sad end for Darius, who likely won’t be back in the future since his ties to Emma have essentially been severed. Not only was Tom the one who commissioned the assassination attempt, he also nearly let Meredith die after she went out and had an affair with Vacarro. Mona’s situation is the best summary of what happens when Tom no longer needs someone – she’s horrified by what he’s done but can’t do a thing about it. This season was exceptional, and I’m worried that the ratings will cause Starz to think twice about renewing this series that promises to be excellent in its third season based on the developments in this hour. Please bring it back!
Season grade: A-
Season MVP: Kathleen Robertson as Kitty
Showing posts with label Boss. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Boss. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
What I’m Watching: Boss
Boss: Season 2, Episode 9 “Clinch” (B+)
There had to be a way out of this mess, and Tom was going to be the one to find it, at everyone’s expense, particularly Mona’s. Sending her to DC so that he could pull the strings without her watching was cruel, and he wasn’t exactly gentle with her after she was clearly devastated by this new casino that he had announced to the public. His compromises with both Cullen and Alderman Ross were somewhat surprising, since he’s been known to lord his achievements over his enemies rather than make peace with them in the pursuit of victory. He also made sure to alienate his most important supporter, Meredith, by thanking his crush Mona instead of her and not bothering to acknowledge her for the crucial work she put in to introduce Cullen to Gil Bellows’ financial savior. Locking Emma in her room was a harsh but fair punishment, and I don’t see how her situation ends up getting any better with Ian’s uncertain help and Darius’ unfortunate descent into cold-blooded murderer. I’m very curious to see what happens now that Ian knows about Tom’s condition. Taylor’s sudden demise was hardly the most shocking death of the episode, however, as the victim of the hit presumably ordered by Tom was Walsh’s annoying aide – and lover – Tina rather than Sam’s detective contact. Its timing all but negates Patty coming to Kitty with the report of her indiscretion with Ben, and things have taken a serious new direction in preparation for the upcoming season finale.
There had to be a way out of this mess, and Tom was going to be the one to find it, at everyone’s expense, particularly Mona’s. Sending her to DC so that he could pull the strings without her watching was cruel, and he wasn’t exactly gentle with her after she was clearly devastated by this new casino that he had announced to the public. His compromises with both Cullen and Alderman Ross were somewhat surprising, since he’s been known to lord his achievements over his enemies rather than make peace with them in the pursuit of victory. He also made sure to alienate his most important supporter, Meredith, by thanking his crush Mona instead of her and not bothering to acknowledge her for the crucial work she put in to introduce Cullen to Gil Bellows’ financial savior. Locking Emma in her room was a harsh but fair punishment, and I don’t see how her situation ends up getting any better with Ian’s uncertain help and Darius’ unfortunate descent into cold-blooded murderer. I’m very curious to see what happens now that Ian knows about Tom’s condition. Taylor’s sudden demise was hardly the most shocking death of the episode, however, as the victim of the hit presumably ordered by Tom was Walsh’s annoying aide – and lover – Tina rather than Sam’s detective contact. Its timing all but negates Patty coming to Kitty with the report of her indiscretion with Ben, and things have taken a serious new direction in preparation for the upcoming season finale.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
What I’m Watching: Boss
Boss: Season 2, Episode 8 “Consequences” (B+)
There isn’t one corner of this show that hasn’t been affected by people not being able to control their sexual impulses. It’s most startling in the case of Doyle, who had previously seemed like a fairly stable and solid person, who, upon realizing that Claire slept with Ben, punishes her in a rather explicit and disturbing fashion. Ian’s actions are especially deplorable given that Emma is likely his sister, and their floor sex was less disconcerting than the sight of an angry, beaten Darius watching them from right outside the house. Ian made his power play earlier than I might have expected, and he did seem devastated to have it seem real and then snatched away from him because Tom had other priorities. Tom running to the council room was a sure sign of defeat for the otherwise stable and newly cocky king, and McGantry’s alliance with Ross suggests that Tom has a big fight ahead of him. I loved that Walsh was so honest and unfriendly with Tom, and it’s great to see the gubernatorial race heating up, as Walsh begins to resent Kitty for failing to acknowledge her advances and Zajac’s bluntness wins him the hearts of many and reignites his campaign. Zajac did a great job to standing up both to his wife and to Tom ("The puppet is cutting his strings"), no small feat. Sam is closer than ever to the truth, but I’m worried he’s going to get himself hurt in Toronto while digging so obviously into Tom’s patient history there. Either way, Tom’s empire is starting to crumble down. His problems at home, namely his daughter’s complicity in his father-in-law’s turn for the worse, are sure not to help.
There isn’t one corner of this show that hasn’t been affected by people not being able to control their sexual impulses. It’s most startling in the case of Doyle, who had previously seemed like a fairly stable and solid person, who, upon realizing that Claire slept with Ben, punishes her in a rather explicit and disturbing fashion. Ian’s actions are especially deplorable given that Emma is likely his sister, and their floor sex was less disconcerting than the sight of an angry, beaten Darius watching them from right outside the house. Ian made his power play earlier than I might have expected, and he did seem devastated to have it seem real and then snatched away from him because Tom had other priorities. Tom running to the council room was a sure sign of defeat for the otherwise stable and newly cocky king, and McGantry’s alliance with Ross suggests that Tom has a big fight ahead of him. I loved that Walsh was so honest and unfriendly with Tom, and it’s great to see the gubernatorial race heating up, as Walsh begins to resent Kitty for failing to acknowledge her advances and Zajac’s bluntness wins him the hearts of many and reignites his campaign. Zajac did a great job to standing up both to his wife and to Tom ("The puppet is cutting his strings"), no small feat. Sam is closer than ever to the truth, but I’m worried he’s going to get himself hurt in Toronto while digging so obviously into Tom’s patient history there. Either way, Tom’s empire is starting to crumble down. His problems at home, namely his daughter’s complicity in his father-in-law’s turn for the worse, are sure not to help.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
What I’m Watching: Boss
Boss: Season 2, Episode 7 “The Conversation” (B+)
And, just like that, Tom is back, pretending like he was never gone in the first place. That’s hardly the case, however, since, despite his repeated dodging of questions about his whereabouts, it’s what on everyone’s mind. Royczyk being caught on tape and forced to resign was bad news for Tom, since it compelled him to go talk to Sam, which should provide him with enough to put the pieces together and figure out why Tom was in Toronto. Meredith is continuing to immerse herself in Tom’s affairs, and discovering the intimate videos of Mona on his computer could have served as ammunition for a major power grab. Interestingly, the unhappy couple seems to be reconciling to a degree, as Meredith confronted him about the videos and he readily admitted to hallucinating Ezra’s presence. That alliance will help him politically but could prove damaging as it continues to alienate both Mona and Ian. I’m not sure what angle Ian has in helping Emma since she’s likely his sister, but she seems to have grown attached awfully quickly while ignoring the real night in shining armor in her life. Kitty doesn’t seem to mind doing dirty business with her candidate present, but she’s not nearly as gung-ho about the idea of cozying up to Walsh when she left her room key at the table for her. This show is so obsessed with sex, but it makes the drama even more compelling. I do hope that Ben’s latest indiscretion doesn’t come back to haunt him – he could use some good news right about now.
And, just like that, Tom is back, pretending like he was never gone in the first place. That’s hardly the case, however, since, despite his repeated dodging of questions about his whereabouts, it’s what on everyone’s mind. Royczyk being caught on tape and forced to resign was bad news for Tom, since it compelled him to go talk to Sam, which should provide him with enough to put the pieces together and figure out why Tom was in Toronto. Meredith is continuing to immerse herself in Tom’s affairs, and discovering the intimate videos of Mona on his computer could have served as ammunition for a major power grab. Interestingly, the unhappy couple seems to be reconciling to a degree, as Meredith confronted him about the videos and he readily admitted to hallucinating Ezra’s presence. That alliance will help him politically but could prove damaging as it continues to alienate both Mona and Ian. I’m not sure what angle Ian has in helping Emma since she’s likely his sister, but she seems to have grown attached awfully quickly while ignoring the real night in shining armor in her life. Kitty doesn’t seem to mind doing dirty business with her candidate present, but she’s not nearly as gung-ho about the idea of cozying up to Walsh when she left her room key at the table for her. This show is so obsessed with sex, but it makes the drama even more compelling. I do hope that Ben’s latest indiscretion doesn’t come back to haunt him – he could use some good news right about now.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
What I’m Watching: Boss
Boss: Season 2, Episode 6 “Backflash” (B+)
The characters on this show are so magnificent, and seeing how they deal with a crisis and with knowing next to nothing about what’s going on is incredible. Meredith springing into action in Tom’s absence was especially terrific since we haven’t seen her doing nearly as much while she’s been injured, and it’s obvious why she and Tom make the perfect power couple. Tom’s shock therapy allowed for a window into his past and his rise to power, highlighting the moment that Meredith started despising her husband, when he cut off her father because he was trying to continue exerting influence over him. It’s disconcerting to see a younger Tom unsure of himself and an older Tom truly losing it in Toronto. Meredith’s take-charge attitude has definitely alienated Ian and Mona, and it’s interesting to see the different ways they handle it, with Ian internalizing and controlling his rage and Mona wearing her emotions on her sleeve. The riots in Lenox Gardens are getting dangerous, and it’s great to see a dejected Zajac put himself to some positive use and get down and dirty with the people. Kitty doesn’t seem capable of settling down in a real romantic relationship, and to watch Sam try to slow her down is a harbinger of her inevitable betrayal. Her realization that Ezra was Deep Throat is sure to have major implications, and I suspect that will be Sam’s next story, which should be a welcome break from the entire press room watching news on TV all day instead of writing stories.
The characters on this show are so magnificent, and seeing how they deal with a crisis and with knowing next to nothing about what’s going on is incredible. Meredith springing into action in Tom’s absence was especially terrific since we haven’t seen her doing nearly as much while she’s been injured, and it’s obvious why she and Tom make the perfect power couple. Tom’s shock therapy allowed for a window into his past and his rise to power, highlighting the moment that Meredith started despising her husband, when he cut off her father because he was trying to continue exerting influence over him. It’s disconcerting to see a younger Tom unsure of himself and an older Tom truly losing it in Toronto. Meredith’s take-charge attitude has definitely alienated Ian and Mona, and it’s interesting to see the different ways they handle it, with Ian internalizing and controlling his rage and Mona wearing her emotions on her sleeve. The riots in Lenox Gardens are getting dangerous, and it’s great to see a dejected Zajac put himself to some positive use and get down and dirty with the people. Kitty doesn’t seem capable of settling down in a real romantic relationship, and to watch Sam try to slow her down is a harbinger of her inevitable betrayal. Her realization that Ezra was Deep Throat is sure to have major implications, and I suspect that will be Sam’s next story, which should be a welcome break from the entire press room watching news on TV all day instead of writing stories.
Sunday, September 16, 2012
What I’m Watching: Boss
Boss: Season 2, Episode 5 “Mania” (A-)
This episode was increasingly hard-hitting, starting out with an astounding amount of sex, even for this show, and then featuring some devastating dramatic moments. Tom’s repeated utterance of “My friends are my enemies” couldn’t be truer, and as he continues to deny it, his hallucinations are just getting much worse. Ezra is becoming a problematic element, and Tom calling the D.A. a pig was truly an awful situation, even for him. It’s good to see at least two people fight back, as Mona didn’t try to suck up to him and thank him for being horrible like everyone else and Jeff reminded him that he’s not an employee and needs to be treated with respect. Ian, on the other hand, offered up his sexual services without blinking an eye, and Tom didn’t even acknowledge his gesture, which is sure to continue festering his anger and resentment towards the mayor. Tom’s fury about the pothole caused his second public meltdown of the episode, and it’s no surprise that he took off driving, unaware of how to rectify the situation in the present. It’s only logical that Maggie would enable her husband’s sex addiction at the office to prevent him from fulfilling it with other women, but her loyalty wasn’t as strong after the news of his affair with Alderman Ross’ wife broke. That doesn’t bode well at all for Ben’s campaign, but Kitty is the one whose actions are far more questionable. After she was rebuked by Sam when she tried to trade sexual favors for information, she acted like she was still working in the mayor’s office and timed the news to break right in the middle of the campaign, a dirty trick that her candidate surely wouldn’t support. At this moment, even Ben and Ian are starting to look sympathetic, which doesn’t say much for the character of people on this show.
This episode was increasingly hard-hitting, starting out with an astounding amount of sex, even for this show, and then featuring some devastating dramatic moments. Tom’s repeated utterance of “My friends are my enemies” couldn’t be truer, and as he continues to deny it, his hallucinations are just getting much worse. Ezra is becoming a problematic element, and Tom calling the D.A. a pig was truly an awful situation, even for him. It’s good to see at least two people fight back, as Mona didn’t try to suck up to him and thank him for being horrible like everyone else and Jeff reminded him that he’s not an employee and needs to be treated with respect. Ian, on the other hand, offered up his sexual services without blinking an eye, and Tom didn’t even acknowledge his gesture, which is sure to continue festering his anger and resentment towards the mayor. Tom’s fury about the pothole caused his second public meltdown of the episode, and it’s no surprise that he took off driving, unaware of how to rectify the situation in the present. It’s only logical that Maggie would enable her husband’s sex addiction at the office to prevent him from fulfilling it with other women, but her loyalty wasn’t as strong after the news of his affair with Alderman Ross’ wife broke. That doesn’t bode well at all for Ben’s campaign, but Kitty is the one whose actions are far more questionable. After she was rebuked by Sam when she tried to trade sexual favors for information, she acted like she was still working in the mayor’s office and timed the news to break right in the middle of the campaign, a dirty trick that her candidate surely wouldn’t support. At this moment, even Ben and Ian are starting to look sympathetic, which doesn’t say much for the character of people on this show.
Monday, September 10, 2012
What I’m Watching: Boss
Boss: Season 2, Episode 4 “Redemption” (B+)
This episode was full of confrontations, and it’s difficult to pick the most memorable one. Ben’s weakness for women is coming back to haunt him, as an overly eager Patti catches him in an impatient moment and Kitty is forced to make concessions to Maggie after she lords their extramarital indiscretion over her. Few men seem to be able to resist Kitty, as even Sam feels the need to kiss her in the middle of an information exchange. No one has any privacy anymore, as Tom lingered a bit too long on his surveillance of Mona’s home and watched her have sex with her husband. Hallucinating a confession of love to Mona was dangerous, but it looks like the moment was over quickly enough for it to be forgotten. The very uncomfortable Kane family dinner included a surprisingly honest conversation about Tom’s condition before both Kane women got to one-up Tom for the cruelest quotes of the episode. From Emma: “You’re not a father, you’re a monster,” and from Meredith: “Some things are best left broken.” Tom did utter harsh words of his own to Ian, telling him that doing his job well doesn’t call for commendation, and sending him on an errand to the bar revealed that Ian may in fact be Tom’s illegitimate son, which would prove quite transformative. As Meredith recovers, Tom is milking the shooting for all it’s worth, and a staged speech at Lenox Gardens demonstrated just how much he still wants to win, no matter the situation.
This episode was full of confrontations, and it’s difficult to pick the most memorable one. Ben’s weakness for women is coming back to haunt him, as an overly eager Patti catches him in an impatient moment and Kitty is forced to make concessions to Maggie after she lords their extramarital indiscretion over her. Few men seem to be able to resist Kitty, as even Sam feels the need to kiss her in the middle of an information exchange. No one has any privacy anymore, as Tom lingered a bit too long on his surveillance of Mona’s home and watched her have sex with her husband. Hallucinating a confession of love to Mona was dangerous, but it looks like the moment was over quickly enough for it to be forgotten. The very uncomfortable Kane family dinner included a surprisingly honest conversation about Tom’s condition before both Kane women got to one-up Tom for the cruelest quotes of the episode. From Emma: “You’re not a father, you’re a monster,” and from Meredith: “Some things are best left broken.” Tom did utter harsh words of his own to Ian, telling him that doing his job well doesn’t call for commendation, and sending him on an errand to the bar revealed that Ian may in fact be Tom’s illegitimate son, which would prove quite transformative. As Meredith recovers, Tom is milking the shooting for all it’s worth, and a staged speech at Lenox Gardens demonstrated just how much he still wants to win, no matter the situation.
Monday, September 3, 2012
What I’m Watching: Boss
Boss: Season 2, Episode 3 “Ablution” (B+)
There’s sex at almost every turn on this show, and it’s likely to get certain people in a lot of trouble before long. Tom’s paranoia is increasing, somewhat rightfully so, as evidenced by his bugging of Mona’s home and his alcohol-assisted viewing of her dinner conversation with her family. It’s so interesting to see how Tom is manipulating and monitoring Mona and Ian’s interactions, and to see how they are managing to work together, even getting along occasionally. We got the chance to see both in a momentary meeting with their former employers, and Ian’s visit contained an unexpected and quite passionate affair. After being rejected both personally and professionally by Kitty, Ben has decided to refocus his sexual impulses on his very willing intern Patty, right after promoting his wife to campaign manager. Being so obvious in the middle of the office can’t be a good idea, and someone’s going to get damaging dirt on him soon, especially if he keeps defying Tom’s wishes. Emma is proving to be just as bratty during house arrest as she was while she was in prison, and Tom is spiraling downwards as he becomes more and more lonely, accompanied only by his hallucinations of Ezra. It was refreshing to see him be honest – if only for a moment – with Dr. Harris as he confirmed that he was indeed having a hallucination in the middle of their conversation. I’m curious to see who has been arrested as Meredith’s shooter, and how Tom is going to take him or her apart.
There’s sex at almost every turn on this show, and it’s likely to get certain people in a lot of trouble before long. Tom’s paranoia is increasing, somewhat rightfully so, as evidenced by his bugging of Mona’s home and his alcohol-assisted viewing of her dinner conversation with her family. It’s so interesting to see how Tom is manipulating and monitoring Mona and Ian’s interactions, and to see how they are managing to work together, even getting along occasionally. We got the chance to see both in a momentary meeting with their former employers, and Ian’s visit contained an unexpected and quite passionate affair. After being rejected both personally and professionally by Kitty, Ben has decided to refocus his sexual impulses on his very willing intern Patty, right after promoting his wife to campaign manager. Being so obvious in the middle of the office can’t be a good idea, and someone’s going to get damaging dirt on him soon, especially if he keeps defying Tom’s wishes. Emma is proving to be just as bratty during house arrest as she was while she was in prison, and Tom is spiraling downwards as he becomes more and more lonely, accompanied only by his hallucinations of Ezra. It was refreshing to see him be honest – if only for a moment – with Dr. Harris as he confirmed that he was indeed having a hallucination in the middle of their conversation. I’m curious to see who has been arrested as Meredith’s shooter, and how Tom is going to take him or her apart.
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
What I’m Watching: Boss
Boss: Season 2, Episode 2 “Through and Through” (A-)
Somehow, she made it, and the first thing Meredith did once she was conscious was to say what all viewers were thinking: that Tom arranged for her to be killed. It wouldn’t be too surprising given that she had learned the truth about what Tom’s illness, but given the other interactions in this episode, it seems that, for once, Tom may actually be telling the truth. It certainly doesn’t reflect well on Tom that Ben heroically shielded his wife as soon as he heard bullets, and Ben is treading very carefully to not offend or anger Tom. Their visit to the hospital was well-received and without the whispered threats that often come with meetings with Tom. Despite an impatient declaration of “Listen to me the first time” and an expression of aversion to Oxford commas, Tom seems to like Ian, impressed by his quick response to being accused of sleeping his way to the top and even offering him a permanent job after hiring what would effectively have been his replacement. Mona got one hell of a job offer with a tight expiration date, and I’m so curious to see how she does working for Tom. Maybe having people around him will help shake the constant sight of Ezra, which is haunting Tom at every turn. Kitty is clearly not coming back to work anytime soon, despite her willingness to do so, and she reacted quite strongly to the news that Tom had seen a neurologist. Sam managed to track down Dr. Harris, and though she’s tight-lipped, he’s not going to stop until he finds out what’s really afoot.
Somehow, she made it, and the first thing Meredith did once she was conscious was to say what all viewers were thinking: that Tom arranged for her to be killed. It wouldn’t be too surprising given that she had learned the truth about what Tom’s illness, but given the other interactions in this episode, it seems that, for once, Tom may actually be telling the truth. It certainly doesn’t reflect well on Tom that Ben heroically shielded his wife as soon as he heard bullets, and Ben is treading very carefully to not offend or anger Tom. Their visit to the hospital was well-received and without the whispered threats that often come with meetings with Tom. Despite an impatient declaration of “Listen to me the first time” and an expression of aversion to Oxford commas, Tom seems to like Ian, impressed by his quick response to being accused of sleeping his way to the top and even offering him a permanent job after hiring what would effectively have been his replacement. Mona got one hell of a job offer with a tight expiration date, and I’m so curious to see how she does working for Tom. Maybe having people around him will help shake the constant sight of Ezra, which is haunting Tom at every turn. Kitty is clearly not coming back to work anytime soon, despite her willingness to do so, and she reacted quite strongly to the news that Tom had seen a neurologist. Sam managed to track down Dr. Harris, and though she’s tight-lipped, he’s not going to stop until he finds out what’s really afoot.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
What I'm Watching: Boss
Boss: Season 2, Episode 1 “Louder than Words” (B+)
Last fall’s dark drama is back for its second season, and it’s just as gloomy and excellent as ever. It’s best summarized by the intonation of Tom’s greatest and meanest line from the hour: “Don’t interrupt me with attempts at relevance.” A close runner-up in terms of cruelty was Meredith’s whispered sentiment to her father, immediately after demeaning his caretaker: “He’s sick, daddy. You may outlive him after all.” Ezra being out of the picture affects many aspects of the show, with Tom hallucinating him, Kitty visiting his grave, and Sam continuing to probe into what he, quite correctly, thinks Tom has done. It’s not a surprise that Sam’s new position isn’t going entirely smoothly, mainly because he’s not concerned with making friends and instead just wants to keep his investigative journalistic integrity. Tom has new enemies to fear, not that he’d admit as much, with Walsh and Mona both dead set on taking him down. I was pleasantly surprised to see Jonathan Groff as a positive new addition to the cast, the slightly too enthusiastic Dean. I think he’ll make a fine replacement for Tom, so long as he can stand the occasional angry outburst from Tom. Darius is proving himself to be faithful to Emma, somewhat unwisely, petitioning Tom to get her out of jail and then arranging for protection for her on the inside. The closing moments of the episode seem to indicate a new direction for the show, and it may just have eliminated the one person who knows exactly what Tom’s suffering from and could have done some real damage.
Last fall’s dark drama is back for its second season, and it’s just as gloomy and excellent as ever. It’s best summarized by the intonation of Tom’s greatest and meanest line from the hour: “Don’t interrupt me with attempts at relevance.” A close runner-up in terms of cruelty was Meredith’s whispered sentiment to her father, immediately after demeaning his caretaker: “He’s sick, daddy. You may outlive him after all.” Ezra being out of the picture affects many aspects of the show, with Tom hallucinating him, Kitty visiting his grave, and Sam continuing to probe into what he, quite correctly, thinks Tom has done. It’s not a surprise that Sam’s new position isn’t going entirely smoothly, mainly because he’s not concerned with making friends and instead just wants to keep his investigative journalistic integrity. Tom has new enemies to fear, not that he’d admit as much, with Walsh and Mona both dead set on taking him down. I was pleasantly surprised to see Jonathan Groff as a positive new addition to the cast, the slightly too enthusiastic Dean. I think he’ll make a fine replacement for Tom, so long as he can stand the occasional angry outburst from Tom. Darius is proving himself to be faithful to Emma, somewhat unwisely, petitioning Tom to get her out of jail and then arranging for protection for her on the inside. The closing moments of the episode seem to indicate a new direction for the show, and it may just have eliminated the one person who knows exactly what Tom’s suffering from and could have done some real damage.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
What I’m Watching: Boss (Season Finale)
Boss: Season 1, Episode 8 “Choose” (B+)
After such a gut-wrenching and intense season, it was hard to imagine that this finale could top all of it. What we got was a somewhat splintered but altogether powerful conclusion to many of this season’s arcs which sends us into season two with a whole new sense of purpose and even darker tone. Tom going around telling people that he’s not going anywhere feels good in that he’s back in top form, though it’s clear that there isn’t one person whose strings he isn’t attempting to pull. It was most devastating to see Ezra come clean with Tom about the fact that he was the one that leaked the incriminating documents, because he realized that Tom was no longer in it for the betterment of the city, just for his own aggrandizement. Ezra was the one person that Tom truly trusted, and therefore it’s fitting that, after much discussion from Ezra, he was dealt the ultimate punishment: death. Ben’s victory over Cullen, who gave a very noble concession speech, was hardly unexpected but somber nonetheless, as he reserved his biggest thanks not for Kitty but for Tom, declaring his eternal loyalty to the master manipulator. Getting slugged in the face by Ross didn’t even make him flinch, but he’s going to have an uphill battle ahead of him with the introduction of the determined other candidate. Darius tailing Tom didn’t come to anything, and visiting Emma in prison was tragic but didn’t have too much of an impact on her evil father. Dr. Reyes calling newly promoted editor Sam Miller is sure to have negative consequences, and I hope she doesn’t suffer the same fate as Meredith’s father’s nurse. Meredith’s dependency on Tom seems to have returned, though he won’t be able to console her since he’s busy having a seizure, something that’s sure to cause him some grief as we enter season two sometime next year.
Season grade: A-
Season MVP: Kelsey Grammer and Kathleen Robertson as Kitty
After such a gut-wrenching and intense season, it was hard to imagine that this finale could top all of it. What we got was a somewhat splintered but altogether powerful conclusion to many of this season’s arcs which sends us into season two with a whole new sense of purpose and even darker tone. Tom going around telling people that he’s not going anywhere feels good in that he’s back in top form, though it’s clear that there isn’t one person whose strings he isn’t attempting to pull. It was most devastating to see Ezra come clean with Tom about the fact that he was the one that leaked the incriminating documents, because he realized that Tom was no longer in it for the betterment of the city, just for his own aggrandizement. Ezra was the one person that Tom truly trusted, and therefore it’s fitting that, after much discussion from Ezra, he was dealt the ultimate punishment: death. Ben’s victory over Cullen, who gave a very noble concession speech, was hardly unexpected but somber nonetheless, as he reserved his biggest thanks not for Kitty but for Tom, declaring his eternal loyalty to the master manipulator. Getting slugged in the face by Ross didn’t even make him flinch, but he’s going to have an uphill battle ahead of him with the introduction of the determined other candidate. Darius tailing Tom didn’t come to anything, and visiting Emma in prison was tragic but didn’t have too much of an impact on her evil father. Dr. Reyes calling newly promoted editor Sam Miller is sure to have negative consequences, and I hope she doesn’t suffer the same fate as Meredith’s father’s nurse. Meredith’s dependency on Tom seems to have returned, though he won’t be able to console her since he’s busy having a seizure, something that’s sure to cause him some grief as we enter season two sometime next year.
Season grade: A-
Season MVP: Kelsey Grammer and Kathleen Robertson as Kitty
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
What I’m Watching: Boss
Boss: Season 1, Episode 7 “Stasis” (A-)
Talk about a tough and insanely demoralizing hour, which features not one but two punching bags that pretty much have their entire lives uprooted out from under them. In its first half, it’s Kitty’s turn to experience some hell. It’s no surprise that she’s pregnant given the extravagant amount of unprotected sex that she and Ben have been having on a regular basis, and if only that were the biggest of her problems. Going right to Ben with Tom’s mention about stepping down was an enormous mistake, and his verbal punishment was brutal, telling her that she didn’t matter and that her shifted dependency was numbingly predictable. Meredith was nearly as cruel in her talking down to Kitty, and it was difficult to see the usually put-together Kitty fall apart in front of them. I was shocked that Ben made a move on Meredith in the elevator, and it seems that his promiscuous ways have led to his premature downfall, as Tom shrewdly sent pictures of him having sex with Alderman Ross’ wife to both his wife and Alderman Ross. Maggie proved to be just as harsh as both of the Kanes, telling her husband that he had to go grovel for mercy from Tom, which he literally did after Tom told him how easy it would be to completely wipe him off the map. To me, these events weren’t even the most appalling of the hour, and that had to be Tom having Emma arrested by the DEA in order to turn public opinion, and I can only hope that his episode-ending visit to her means that she approved the plan before it happened. Sam stepping into his editor’s position should be interesting, though what happens with everything in next week’s season finale is sure to be highly unpredictable.
Talk about a tough and insanely demoralizing hour, which features not one but two punching bags that pretty much have their entire lives uprooted out from under them. In its first half, it’s Kitty’s turn to experience some hell. It’s no surprise that she’s pregnant given the extravagant amount of unprotected sex that she and Ben have been having on a regular basis, and if only that were the biggest of her problems. Going right to Ben with Tom’s mention about stepping down was an enormous mistake, and his verbal punishment was brutal, telling her that she didn’t matter and that her shifted dependency was numbingly predictable. Meredith was nearly as cruel in her talking down to Kitty, and it was difficult to see the usually put-together Kitty fall apart in front of them. I was shocked that Ben made a move on Meredith in the elevator, and it seems that his promiscuous ways have led to his premature downfall, as Tom shrewdly sent pictures of him having sex with Alderman Ross’ wife to both his wife and Alderman Ross. Maggie proved to be just as harsh as both of the Kanes, telling her husband that he had to go grovel for mercy from Tom, which he literally did after Tom told him how easy it would be to completely wipe him off the map. To me, these events weren’t even the most appalling of the hour, and that had to be Tom having Emma arrested by the DEA in order to turn public opinion, and I can only hope that his episode-ending visit to her means that she approved the plan before it happened. Sam stepping into his editor’s position should be interesting, though what happens with everything in next week’s season finale is sure to be highly unpredictable.
Monday, November 28, 2011
What I’m Watching: Boss
Boss: Season 1, Episode 6 “Spit” (B+)
This episode is monumental for many reasons, and none of them are good. The extent of the forces rallying against Tom is increasing rapidly as he continues to upset more and more people, and each time he rectifies one situation, he creates at least one more. Getting Dr. Reyes to retract her statement with the help of his former cop friend was impressive, and it did throw the aldermen for a loop and remove the possibility of impeachment. Dr. Reyes spitting in his face couldn’t have felt good, and it’s reassuring to hear that Tom is at least aware of the fact that he is, on occasion, evil. Alderman Mata’s change of heart was never going to have much of an effect, but Ross’ essential rigging of his death was considerably more fatal than I might have expected, and decently terrifying. Ezra being aware of the plotting against Tom is only helpful if the people he tries to talk to in order to sort it out are alive. Ezra is an effective mouthpiece for Tom, telling everyone that Tom will remember who helped him and who didn’t to pressure them not to conspire against Tom. The sudden danger faced by Emma while she was with Darius is representative of the precarious situation she finds herself in with that relationship, something that’s definitely not healthy for her. Tom’s evisceration of Kitty following her simple question about settling the lawsuit was harsh, and it seems that the facts of the case are getting to her. Tom’s most grievous mistake was smacking Meredith following her efforts to help, and it’s sent her directly to Ben, to help him win. Tom is going to go ballistic when he finds out, and I can’t wait to see how it all plays out.
This episode is monumental for many reasons, and none of them are good. The extent of the forces rallying against Tom is increasing rapidly as he continues to upset more and more people, and each time he rectifies one situation, he creates at least one more. Getting Dr. Reyes to retract her statement with the help of his former cop friend was impressive, and it did throw the aldermen for a loop and remove the possibility of impeachment. Dr. Reyes spitting in his face couldn’t have felt good, and it’s reassuring to hear that Tom is at least aware of the fact that he is, on occasion, evil. Alderman Mata’s change of heart was never going to have much of an effect, but Ross’ essential rigging of his death was considerably more fatal than I might have expected, and decently terrifying. Ezra being aware of the plotting against Tom is only helpful if the people he tries to talk to in order to sort it out are alive. Ezra is an effective mouthpiece for Tom, telling everyone that Tom will remember who helped him and who didn’t to pressure them not to conspire against Tom. The sudden danger faced by Emma while she was with Darius is representative of the precarious situation she finds herself in with that relationship, something that’s definitely not healthy for her. Tom’s evisceration of Kitty following her simple question about settling the lawsuit was harsh, and it seems that the facts of the case are getting to her. Tom’s most grievous mistake was smacking Meredith following her efforts to help, and it’s sent her directly to Ben, to help him win. Tom is going to go ballistic when he finds out, and I can’t wait to see how it all plays out.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
What I’m Watching: Boss
Boss: Season 1, Episode 5 “Remembered” (B+)
It’s absolutely fascinating to see this crew of hard-working political people jump into serious spin mode when Tom was revealed to have signed a document related to the water pollution when in a previous position so many years back. Ezra’s three-pronged strategy was quite brilliant, and it was so impressive to see it play out on the screens in front of them, with Kitty carefully watching each news channel to see the focus change from Chicago to Bensenville. Kitty tasking her underlings with planting for sale signs on lawns demonstrated both the extremes to which she was willing to go and her ability to think on her feet and swiftly solve problems. Tom managed to have two terrifically intimidating and awful moments in this episode, the first involving him pulling his pants down and going to the bathroom in the middle of a meeting and the second involving a tirade against the half-assed nature of gluten-free muffins. I’ve heard plenty of arguments against being vegan, but never one quite as harsh as that one. Despite his strong moments, Tom seems to be hallucinating to a disturbing degree, imagining everyone in his life in his office when Ezra was talking to him and then conjuring up an image of Meredith comforting him after seeing him drop his pills. His meeting with Emma where she apologized to him led him to break down on the elevator, and he doesn’t even know what’s happening at that same moment, with Ben being promised many things by Cullen and others if he drops out of the race.
It’s absolutely fascinating to see this crew of hard-working political people jump into serious spin mode when Tom was revealed to have signed a document related to the water pollution when in a previous position so many years back. Ezra’s three-pronged strategy was quite brilliant, and it was so impressive to see it play out on the screens in front of them, with Kitty carefully watching each news channel to see the focus change from Chicago to Bensenville. Kitty tasking her underlings with planting for sale signs on lawns demonstrated both the extremes to which she was willing to go and her ability to think on her feet and swiftly solve problems. Tom managed to have two terrifically intimidating and awful moments in this episode, the first involving him pulling his pants down and going to the bathroom in the middle of a meeting and the second involving a tirade against the half-assed nature of gluten-free muffins. I’ve heard plenty of arguments against being vegan, but never one quite as harsh as that one. Despite his strong moments, Tom seems to be hallucinating to a disturbing degree, imagining everyone in his life in his office when Ezra was talking to him and then conjuring up an image of Meredith comforting him after seeing him drop his pills. His meeting with Emma where she apologized to him led him to break down on the elevator, and he doesn’t even know what’s happening at that same moment, with Ben being promised many things by Cullen and others if he drops out of the race.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
What I’m Watching: Boss
Boss: Season 1, Episode 4 “Slip” (B+)
Just as Tom is taking measures to make sure that he’s able to keep a handle on his behavior by monitoring himself via his computer camera, he makes an enormous mistake which he’s not going to be able to talk his way out of, no matter how hard he tries. He did do a good job of controlling his mumbling and taking a moment, but reversing his decision negates that stealthy move. It seems that anyone that comes into contact with Tom isn’t safe, as his drug dealer gets busted and then released, only to be shot for the potential damage he might do to the mayor. It’s nice that Emma is willing to have a relationship with her father, on her own terms, and it’s awfully convenient that she is able to get him the drugs he needs, procured by Darius, who himself is considering the changes he’s making in his life for the girl he likes. Tom preempting Sam’s big article by admitting the presence of toxic waste and pinning it on his father-in-law sure got the newspaperman all riled up, but he seems to have stumbled upon something just as juicy following his research involving sick children. Meredith knows there’s something up with Tom, but she’s also fighting her own personal battles, as evidenced by her breakdown at the end with her father. Ben is doing a superb job of handling himself with multiple assaults, coming from the likes of the anonymous farmer and his number one opponent in the gubernatorial race, who tries to get him to reconsider running since he could feasibly lose. Turning the cameras off during the key moment didn’t sit well with Kitty, and she didn’t buy his excuse about doing the right thing either, mainly because the two of them just can’t stop having sex nearly everywhere they go, even if they do have one meeting in public to keep their passion tempered ever so slightly.
Just as Tom is taking measures to make sure that he’s able to keep a handle on his behavior by monitoring himself via his computer camera, he makes an enormous mistake which he’s not going to be able to talk his way out of, no matter how hard he tries. He did do a good job of controlling his mumbling and taking a moment, but reversing his decision negates that stealthy move. It seems that anyone that comes into contact with Tom isn’t safe, as his drug dealer gets busted and then released, only to be shot for the potential damage he might do to the mayor. It’s nice that Emma is willing to have a relationship with her father, on her own terms, and it’s awfully convenient that she is able to get him the drugs he needs, procured by Darius, who himself is considering the changes he’s making in his life for the girl he likes. Tom preempting Sam’s big article by admitting the presence of toxic waste and pinning it on his father-in-law sure got the newspaperman all riled up, but he seems to have stumbled upon something just as juicy following his research involving sick children. Meredith knows there’s something up with Tom, but she’s also fighting her own personal battles, as evidenced by her breakdown at the end with her father. Ben is doing a superb job of handling himself with multiple assaults, coming from the likes of the anonymous farmer and his number one opponent in the gubernatorial race, who tries to get him to reconsider running since he could feasibly lose. Turning the cameras off during the key moment didn’t sit well with Kitty, and she didn’t buy his excuse about doing the right thing either, mainly because the two of them just can’t stop having sex nearly everywhere they go, even if they do have one meeting in public to keep their passion tempered ever so slightly.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Take Three: Boss
Boss: Season 1, Episode 3 “Swallow” (B+)
This show continues to get darker and more intense with each episode, as Tom begins to notice more symptoms of his condition and start slipping up in front of other people. Wetting the bed in the middle of the night and then zoning out and muttering while meeting with Cullen are unsettling developments, and his lengthy lecture about horses while the two women are making out with each other in front of him seems to indicate that he really can’t concentrate on much of anything. His apologies to Doctor Harris felt sincere, but all it took was a friendly offer from Meredith to get her effectively deported from Chicago with the threat of losing custody of her son hanging over her. Sometimes, he is on, of course, like when he literally feeds questions directly to a reporter to as he asks them to Cullen. Telling him that what he has, Tom gave him was harsh, but that’s nothing new for Tom. Cullen’s not doing too well, told by his advisors that it’s better for him to be perceived as gay than to admit the truth, that he was going over the acceptable campaign contribution limits. Sam is getting into truly dangerous territory in his investigation of the construction site, and I just hope that he doesn’t get himself killed. Ben and Kitty need to stop having sex at every possible juncture, and Kitty was right to take issue with the fact that Ben propositioned her with his kids several feet away. Kitty’s meeting with her former mentor was melancholy, memorable particularly for his point that his exit from politic has absolutely nothing to do with his constituency. It’s about time Tom came clean with someone, and he didn’t waste any time just coming out and saying it. Emma, unsurprisingly, lambasted him for never coming to see her just because he missed her. The episode ended on a fitting, haunted note as Tom saw himself captured on camera, just like everyone else in Chicago.
This show continues to get darker and more intense with each episode, as Tom begins to notice more symptoms of his condition and start slipping up in front of other people. Wetting the bed in the middle of the night and then zoning out and muttering while meeting with Cullen are unsettling developments, and his lengthy lecture about horses while the two women are making out with each other in front of him seems to indicate that he really can’t concentrate on much of anything. His apologies to Doctor Harris felt sincere, but all it took was a friendly offer from Meredith to get her effectively deported from Chicago with the threat of losing custody of her son hanging over her. Sometimes, he is on, of course, like when he literally feeds questions directly to a reporter to as he asks them to Cullen. Telling him that what he has, Tom gave him was harsh, but that’s nothing new for Tom. Cullen’s not doing too well, told by his advisors that it’s better for him to be perceived as gay than to admit the truth, that he was going over the acceptable campaign contribution limits. Sam is getting into truly dangerous territory in his investigation of the construction site, and I just hope that he doesn’t get himself killed. Ben and Kitty need to stop having sex at every possible juncture, and Kitty was right to take issue with the fact that Ben propositioned her with his kids several feet away. Kitty’s meeting with her former mentor was melancholy, memorable particularly for his point that his exit from politic has absolutely nothing to do with his constituency. It’s about time Tom came clean with someone, and he didn’t waste any time just coming out and saying it. Emma, unsurprisingly, lambasted him for never coming to see her just because he missed her. The episode ended on a fitting, haunted note as Tom saw himself captured on camera, just like everyone else in Chicago.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Round Two: Boss
Boss: Season 1, Episode 2 “Reflex” (B+)
It’s hard to argue that this show moves at a thrilling pace, but there’s little denying that its contents are ferociously interesting. Most impressively, it’s not even all about Tom, and the show wisely focuses on its entire ensemble to craft an enormously compelling series with quite a dark side. Even if Sam Miller was the only one who seemed to notice, Tom’s flub during the press conference seems to have really gotten under his skin, and his obsessive concern about it isn’t likely to subside anytime soon. Leaking the footage of Ben and the beating was a master move, and seeing the victim of that beating stand up during his introduction was stunning, impressing even Tom. It’s clear that Ben is just the right apprentice for Tom, displaying disgusting behavior as he grabbed Kitty for a quick moment of passion before jumping into the car with his wife and sons. Kitty sure knows what she’s doing, and that press conference was impressively orchestrated. I like the focus on Cullen’s campaign, since he’s just as cutthroat as Tom but hardly as bright, and that look on his face when the video of his suit being adjusted comes on the news says it all. Sam’s hunt for scoop in the Indian case is proving to be tough, but he seems like just about the most determined reporter that ever lived. If Tom is a harsh, soulless individual, his wife seems even worse, coolly talking about and to her daughter, to the point that Tom’s harsh remark downplaying the doctor’s name almost doesn’t feel undeserved.
It’s hard to argue that this show moves at a thrilling pace, but there’s little denying that its contents are ferociously interesting. Most impressively, it’s not even all about Tom, and the show wisely focuses on its entire ensemble to craft an enormously compelling series with quite a dark side. Even if Sam Miller was the only one who seemed to notice, Tom’s flub during the press conference seems to have really gotten under his skin, and his obsessive concern about it isn’t likely to subside anytime soon. Leaking the footage of Ben and the beating was a master move, and seeing the victim of that beating stand up during his introduction was stunning, impressing even Tom. It’s clear that Ben is just the right apprentice for Tom, displaying disgusting behavior as he grabbed Kitty for a quick moment of passion before jumping into the car with his wife and sons. Kitty sure knows what she’s doing, and that press conference was impressively orchestrated. I like the focus on Cullen’s campaign, since he’s just as cutthroat as Tom but hardly as bright, and that look on his face when the video of his suit being adjusted comes on the news says it all. Sam’s hunt for scoop in the Indian case is proving to be tough, but he seems like just about the most determined reporter that ever lived. If Tom is a harsh, soulless individual, his wife seems even worse, coolly talking about and to her daughter, to the point that Tom’s harsh remark downplaying the doctor’s name almost doesn’t feel undeserved.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Pilot Review: Boss
Boss (Starz)
Premiered October 21 at 10pm
The cinema has seen its share of corrupt politicians, yet it’s hard to find someone quite as despicable and manipulative as Tom Kane. This pilot provides an intriguing introduction to Kane, showing him broken down before we see him put together, receiving some devastating details about his diagnosis. From there, he reveals his true colors, giving an intense speech in support of the Governor Cullen reelection campaign and then calling in wunderkind Ben Zajac to position him to run against that very same governor. Kane is hardly alone in his ruthlessness and cruelty, as evidenced by Cullen’s reaction to bad news from an underling, which leads to tragic results for an iPad. Grabbing someone by the ear during a meeting, threatening to expose voters by name if a bill doesn’t pass, and commissioning a terrifying warning for someone who hasn’t even done anything wrong all add up to make Kane one seriously determined and frightening leader. I can’t get that scene where the doctor was paralyzed in her car as her son was only feet away just to ensure that she got the message out of my head. Seeing how coldly Meredith reacts to him underlines his ability to make and keep friends. Sarn Miller is sure to have an intriguing and troublesome role in the res of the show, and Tom’s daughter seems to have enough problems of her own. The rather graphic sex scene between Ben and Kitty says plenty about those two characters, and I find Martin Donovan’s almost unrecognizable Ezra Stone especially captivating. The show can be dense and dark at times, but overall this is a strong and compelling series, even if it may not be my particular cup of tea.
How will it work as a series? There should be no shortage of possible plotlines related to politics, and with characters like these, there’s going to be a wealth of ground to cover. It may be a bit dull and impenetrable at some times, mainly due to the show having a widespread ensemble cast with a number of tangents.
How long will it last? This show got renewed for a second season before the first even began nearly a month ago. Kelsey Grammer is a bankable star, and I don’t think Starz will want to let him go anytime soon. The first season is only eight episodes, while the second will be two, so we’ll have to see where it goes from there.
Pilot grade: B
Premiered October 21 at 10pm
The cinema has seen its share of corrupt politicians, yet it’s hard to find someone quite as despicable and manipulative as Tom Kane. This pilot provides an intriguing introduction to Kane, showing him broken down before we see him put together, receiving some devastating details about his diagnosis. From there, he reveals his true colors, giving an intense speech in support of the Governor Cullen reelection campaign and then calling in wunderkind Ben Zajac to position him to run against that very same governor. Kane is hardly alone in his ruthlessness and cruelty, as evidenced by Cullen’s reaction to bad news from an underling, which leads to tragic results for an iPad. Grabbing someone by the ear during a meeting, threatening to expose voters by name if a bill doesn’t pass, and commissioning a terrifying warning for someone who hasn’t even done anything wrong all add up to make Kane one seriously determined and frightening leader. I can’t get that scene where the doctor was paralyzed in her car as her son was only feet away just to ensure that she got the message out of my head. Seeing how coldly Meredith reacts to him underlines his ability to make and keep friends. Sarn Miller is sure to have an intriguing and troublesome role in the res of the show, and Tom’s daughter seems to have enough problems of her own. The rather graphic sex scene between Ben and Kitty says plenty about those two characters, and I find Martin Donovan’s almost unrecognizable Ezra Stone especially captivating. The show can be dense and dark at times, but overall this is a strong and compelling series, even if it may not be my particular cup of tea.
How will it work as a series? There should be no shortage of possible plotlines related to politics, and with characters like these, there’s going to be a wealth of ground to cover. It may be a bit dull and impenetrable at some times, mainly due to the show having a widespread ensemble cast with a number of tangents.
How long will it last? This show got renewed for a second season before the first even began nearly a month ago. Kelsey Grammer is a bankable star, and I don’t think Starz will want to let him go anytime soon. The first season is only eight episodes, while the second will be two, so we’ll have to see where it goes from there.
Pilot grade: B
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