Take Three: Extant

Extant: Season 1, Episode 3 “Wish You Were Here” (C)

Things are moving at a fast pace on this show in terms of developments from which the show won’t be able to come back. It’s only a few episodes in and Alan has already played his hand to reveal that he wants to bring Molly in for “observation,” and that was only a short while after he came to her confessing his supposed ignorance to what was going on, something that she bought initially. Molly’s trusted ally, Sam, has now put herself in extreme danger by being present at the run-up to the attempted capture and quarantine of Molly, and though Molly managed to make her escape, I don’t think Sam will be nearly as fortunate. Molly’s shocking pregnancy was explained away pretty easily by a scientific experiment, painting John as the father without much doubt, which strikes me as far from likely. It was disconcerting but fairly obvious that the good old friend that Molly was talking to throughout her party wasn’t actually there, and just serves to underline the eeriness of it all, which doesn’t feel quite as compelling and creative as it should. Meanwhile, I can understand John and Molly’s desire to educate others about how their son is a real boy and should be treated as such rather than be ostracized, but Ethan is demonstrating some seriously sociopathic tendencies. On an unrelated but interesting note, this episode was titled “Wish You Were Here,” and actor Pierce Gagnon, who plays Ethan, also stars in “Wish I Was Here,” the new Zach Braff film that opened in New York last week.

What I’m Watching: Californication (Season Premiere)

Californication: Season 3, Episode 1 “Wish You Were Here” (A-)

After dragging a bit in its second season, this show is back full-force with a stellar premiere that sets it in new directions and introduces several fantastic new characters. Hank’s back to his normal life, though not everything is the same. Becca isn’t the good girl she always was, and having her show up stoned with her bad-influence friend at the start of the episode is a great reintroduction to her character and a sign that something has changed for at least some of the characters. Becca’s new friend is a great addition not just for the way she talks to Hank but mostly for the fact that her parents are joining the show too. Embeth Davidtz and Peter Gallagher are both great performers who are perfect for the roles they’ve taken. Hank’s first meeting with the bushy-eyebrowed-dean is so completely in character and awesomely typical. The wonderful Diane Farr is also terrific, and if there’s any actress besides Natasha McElhone who could spar with David Duchovny, it’s her. I’m so happy that those three will be on the show for at least a good portion of this season, and Hank’s inevitable working with them is going to be incredibly fun. Hank shaping young minds is an entertaining prospect, and it’s going to be incredible to see him interact with students. The best part of this premiere, and what makes this show so great, is the ending phone conversation between Hank and Karen. Their relationship has always been a unique one, and the way they can so comfortably and jokingly discuss their sex lives while proclaiming their devotion to each other is amazing. The closing fadeout reminded me of the end of a great “Sopranos” episode where Tony is on the phone with Carmela, sees the sun rise and asks her what time it is where she is. This premiere has restored my faith in “Californication,” and I can’t describe my excitement for this season.