The Walking Dead: Season 1, Episode 2 “Guts” (B+)
I’m tempted to declare this second episode an enormous letdown from the first, but after all is said and done, it’s actually still a pretty decent hour. I think it has more to do with the episode title – the series premiere of “Rescue Me” boasted the same moniker and wasn’t anywhere near as good as episode two. It’s hard to live up to the awesomeness of a series premiere like the one that aired last week for this show, and this second installment does actually perform commendably. More than anything, this show is establishing itself as bleak, at best, in tone. The segue from Shane and Lori having sex in the woods right into the fantastically eerie opening credits indicates both that this is the most intimate setting two people can find in this new world and that this is what Rick has to look forward to when he finally finds his wife again, which could be as early as next week given the episode’s resolution. Stranding Michael Rooker’s Earle on top of the building, handcuffed to a post, even after T-Dog went back to free him, underlines an even darker outlook. Fortunately, there are people aplently in this zombie-filled world, and the fact that they got ahold of not one but two vehicles after a frightfully claustrophobic and pessimistic episode is a good sign. Rick has already been established and cemented as the lawman of this new generation, declaring that there are no longer races and just people. Also, though I said last week that the show had already been renewed for a second season, apparently that didn’t actually happen until this past Monday. In any case, get used to these people – if they survive, you’ll be seeing them for a while!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
What I’m Watching: Bored to Death
Bored to Death: Season 2, Episode 7 “Escape from the Castle” (B+)
One of the things I love most about this show is the fluidity with which all of its characters accept their various predicaments, whether it’s the peculiarity of their assignments or the bizarre situations in which they seem to continually find themselves. I particularly loved the way that Jonathan chose to inform the dermatologist of his partner’s birth gender, so subtly and seemingly professional. The fact that Vikrum was able to get in on all of the excitement and become a part of the team, at least for this episode, was nice, especially since this show’s core cast of only three characters is a bit small (the similarly testerone-filled trio of “Human Target,” returning to the air next week, is actually expanding its cast and adding two female characters). This show managed pretty well this week by having a male character that also happens to be the central female character of the show. Ray’s birthday was a fun subplot that wasn’t much delved into, since Jonathan’s side job and George’s affinity for hallucinogens seem to always take precedence. It did have the benefit of delivering my favorite line, from Ray to George: “are you sure you’re the editor of a magazine?” Nina’s speedy progression of her dalliance with Jonathan was somewhat alarming but rather entertaining, mostly for Jonathan’s reaction to the whole thing. Sadly, next week is this show’s finale, but it’s been a fun, fleeting, all-too-brief run, and fortunately we’ll have our three silly characters back next year for season three!
One of the things I love most about this show is the fluidity with which all of its characters accept their various predicaments, whether it’s the peculiarity of their assignments or the bizarre situations in which they seem to continually find themselves. I particularly loved the way that Jonathan chose to inform the dermatologist of his partner’s birth gender, so subtly and seemingly professional. The fact that Vikrum was able to get in on all of the excitement and become a part of the team, at least for this episode, was nice, especially since this show’s core cast of only three characters is a bit small (the similarly testerone-filled trio of “Human Target,” returning to the air next week, is actually expanding its cast and adding two female characters). This show managed pretty well this week by having a male character that also happens to be the central female character of the show. Ray’s birthday was a fun subplot that wasn’t much delved into, since Jonathan’s side job and George’s affinity for hallucinogens seem to always take precedence. It did have the benefit of delivering my favorite line, from Ray to George: “are you sure you’re the editor of a magazine?” Nina’s speedy progression of her dalliance with Jonathan was somewhat alarming but rather entertaining, mostly for Jonathan’s reaction to the whole thing. Sadly, next week is this show’s finale, but it’s been a fun, fleeting, all-too-brief run, and fortunately we’ll have our three silly characters back next year for season three!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
What I’m Watching: Desperate Housewives
Desperate Housewives: Season 7, Episode 7 “A Humiliating Business” (B-)
If the only truly compelling part of this whole episode comes at its very end and relates to a storyline from the first season, does that mean that this show isn’t worth all that much anymore? I might argue yes but still posit that some of it is worth watching. Lynette standing by while Renee hired Susan as her nanny was uncomfortable to watch, and while it did work with the theme of humiliation in this episode, it’s still highly unrealistic that Lynette would be so blind and oblivious to her friend’s predicament. Gaby reuniting Bob and Lee after thinking that Bob is trying to flip Carlos comes from completely out of nowhere, and feels just as irrelevant and unnecessary as it is. Keith’s mother happening to be the doctor Bree went to see and confide in about her menopause was funny, and I just wish that John Schneider had been used in a more interesting way. His appearance in the “Hot in Cleveland” pilot proved that he’s capable of being an entertaining suitor in addition to a stern, supportive father figure like the one he played on “Smallville.” Now back to the good stuff: Beth is Felicia Tillman’s daughter. I never suspected that connection, and while it seems unlikely that Paul would be unaware of this fact, it’s completely awesome. I’m curious both about what Paul’s revenge plan is and what Beth and Felicia’s plot against him is, and like Dave in season five, that’s going to be pretty much the only thing ensuring that I still watch this show.
If the only truly compelling part of this whole episode comes at its very end and relates to a storyline from the first season, does that mean that this show isn’t worth all that much anymore? I might argue yes but still posit that some of it is worth watching. Lynette standing by while Renee hired Susan as her nanny was uncomfortable to watch, and while it did work with the theme of humiliation in this episode, it’s still highly unrealistic that Lynette would be so blind and oblivious to her friend’s predicament. Gaby reuniting Bob and Lee after thinking that Bob is trying to flip Carlos comes from completely out of nowhere, and feels just as irrelevant and unnecessary as it is. Keith’s mother happening to be the doctor Bree went to see and confide in about her menopause was funny, and I just wish that John Schneider had been used in a more interesting way. His appearance in the “Hot in Cleveland” pilot proved that he’s capable of being an entertaining suitor in addition to a stern, supportive father figure like the one he played on “Smallville.” Now back to the good stuff: Beth is Felicia Tillman’s daughter. I never suspected that connection, and while it seems unlikely that Paul would be unaware of this fact, it’s completely awesome. I’m curious both about what Paul’s revenge plan is and what Beth and Felicia’s plot against him is, and like Dave in season five, that’s going to be pretty much the only thing ensuring that I still watch this show.
What I’m Watching: Dexter
Dexter: Season 5, Episode 7 “Circle Us” (B+)
I’m very impressed with the way that this season is playing out and the way that all of the guest stars are being incorporated in a remarkably compelling and intricate fashion. It’s especially gratifying since the idea of having another killer present each season might have seemed like it would get old (season three wasn’t particularly compelling), yet the show has managed to make it work, and then some. The bonding between Lumen and Dexter towards the end of the episode there, complete with hug from Lumen and delightful realization that Dexter said “what do we do?” Brits Jonny Lee Miller (“Eli Stone”) and Chris Vance (“Prison Break,” “Burn Notice”) are well-cast as the well-dressed duo secretly involved in group-oriented torture and murder. Dexter was clever to frame Boyd as the person driving the car to divert attention away from Cole so that he can kill him himself. The fact that local celebrity Jordan Chase is actually involved too is sure to complicate things, and I’m eager to see what happens. I’m very worried about just how close Stan is to uncovering some of Dexter’s secrets as he starts to research Lumen and her background. The shot of a smiling Lumen holding Harrison is particularly powerful, since it represents, as Dexter says in voiceover, a coming together of his separate lives. Things on the non-Dexter front got pretty violent too as once again Laguerta made a dumb call while Deb made the right one. These brothers are bad news, and the one who’s still living is sure to continue causing trouble for at least a little bit.
I’m very impressed with the way that this season is playing out and the way that all of the guest stars are being incorporated in a remarkably compelling and intricate fashion. It’s especially gratifying since the idea of having another killer present each season might have seemed like it would get old (season three wasn’t particularly compelling), yet the show has managed to make it work, and then some. The bonding between Lumen and Dexter towards the end of the episode there, complete with hug from Lumen and delightful realization that Dexter said “what do we do?” Brits Jonny Lee Miller (“Eli Stone”) and Chris Vance (“Prison Break,” “Burn Notice”) are well-cast as the well-dressed duo secretly involved in group-oriented torture and murder. Dexter was clever to frame Boyd as the person driving the car to divert attention away from Cole so that he can kill him himself. The fact that local celebrity Jordan Chase is actually involved too is sure to complicate things, and I’m eager to see what happens. I’m very worried about just how close Stan is to uncovering some of Dexter’s secrets as he starts to research Lumen and her background. The shot of a smiling Lumen holding Harrison is particularly powerful, since it represents, as Dexter says in voiceover, a coming together of his separate lives. Things on the non-Dexter front got pretty violent too as once again Laguerta made a dumb call while Deb made the right one. These brothers are bad news, and the one who’s still living is sure to continue causing trouble for at least a little bit.
What I’m Watching: Boardwalk Empire
Boardwalk Empire: Season 1, Episode 8 “Hold Me in Paradise” (B+)
I’ve always been impressed with the way this show has been able to incorporate actual history into its continuing storyline, and in this episode I was privy to the clever reference being made. The sudden presence of one Warren G. Harding, who would become President of the United States in 1921, enabled an appearance by his disgruntled wife, who worriedly mentioned to Nucky that a fortune teller had said he would die in office. Of course, Harding did die in office only two years later, and what’s more is that it’s suspected by some that his wife was behind his death. The fully scripted stuff was plenty compelling too, of course. Jimmy and Nucky coming face-to-face was extremely interesting, as Nucky referred to him coldly and condescendingly as James and chewed him out for not supporting his family. Their conversation following Eli’s shooting was much more intimate, and Jimmy was wise to call Nucky on turning to him in a moment of need and almost begging him to come back. Those two do have one hell of an interesting relationship, though not quite as fascinating as that of Nucky and Margaret. The fact that he calls her to move his books was very intriguing, and the fact that she looked through them in the episode’s final scene is a sign that this is one woman who’s not going to be kept in the dark, and certainly not selectively. My favorite exchange of dialogue in the episode was “you’re speaking to a U.S. senator” / “that’s all you’ll ever be.” Nucky is one tough cookie, and you do not want to cross him.
I’ve always been impressed with the way this show has been able to incorporate actual history into its continuing storyline, and in this episode I was privy to the clever reference being made. The sudden presence of one Warren G. Harding, who would become President of the United States in 1921, enabled an appearance by his disgruntled wife, who worriedly mentioned to Nucky that a fortune teller had said he would die in office. Of course, Harding did die in office only two years later, and what’s more is that it’s suspected by some that his wife was behind his death. The fully scripted stuff was plenty compelling too, of course. Jimmy and Nucky coming face-to-face was extremely interesting, as Nucky referred to him coldly and condescendingly as James and chewed him out for not supporting his family. Their conversation following Eli’s shooting was much more intimate, and Jimmy was wise to call Nucky on turning to him in a moment of need and almost begging him to come back. Those two do have one hell of an interesting relationship, though not quite as fascinating as that of Nucky and Margaret. The fact that he calls her to move his books was very intriguing, and the fact that she looked through them in the episode’s final scene is a sign that this is one woman who’s not going to be kept in the dark, and certainly not selectively. My favorite exchange of dialogue in the episode was “you’re speaking to a U.S. senator” / “that’s all you’ll ever be.” Nucky is one tough cookie, and you do not want to cross him.
Monday, November 8, 2010
What I’m Watching: Smallville
Smallville: Season 10, Episode 7 “Ambush” (D)
I’m all for the romance between Lois and Clark, but there’s no reason we have to have these stupid episodes with obnoxious music and relationship woes. This one is better than the rest, but it’s still problematic. One issue here is one that many have with “No Ordinary Family” – there were no stakes. Lucy’s duplicity is addressed only by a brief apology from her after the incident, and she so willingly agrees to plant a tracker on her father without his knowledge that it’s hard to believe she has a clue what she’s doing half the time. More importantly, the assertion that Clark is fast but can’t stop something or other is pointless, because he can and there’s no reason anyone else should think otherwise. The bad guys know Clark’s identity, yet he’s able to run around free and clear without a care in the world, and their big move is to blow up a building with anti-Blur signs on it? That’s not going to help anyone. We also have Clark appearing to ask the General (a dumb character, by the way) for Lois’ hand in marriage, yet the plotline is never addressed after that scene. While it’s possible that it’s being saved for a future episode, with the way this show keeps things on the sidelines for episodes at a time, that’s not exactly a comfort. On the subject of uncomfortable things, there’s already talk brewing that an eleventh season of this show could be in order. Please no.
I’m all for the romance between Lois and Clark, but there’s no reason we have to have these stupid episodes with obnoxious music and relationship woes. This one is better than the rest, but it’s still problematic. One issue here is one that many have with “No Ordinary Family” – there were no stakes. Lucy’s duplicity is addressed only by a brief apology from her after the incident, and she so willingly agrees to plant a tracker on her father without his knowledge that it’s hard to believe she has a clue what she’s doing half the time. More importantly, the assertion that Clark is fast but can’t stop something or other is pointless, because he can and there’s no reason anyone else should think otherwise. The bad guys know Clark’s identity, yet he’s able to run around free and clear without a care in the world, and their big move is to blow up a building with anti-Blur signs on it? That’s not going to help anyone. We also have Clark appearing to ask the General (a dumb character, by the way) for Lois’ hand in marriage, yet the plotline is never addressed after that scene. While it’s possible that it’s being saved for a future episode, with the way this show keeps things on the sidelines for episodes at a time, that’s not exactly a comfort. On the subject of uncomfortable things, there’s already talk brewing that an eleventh season of this show could be in order. Please no.
What Andy's Watching: Survivor
Survivor: Season 21, Episode 8 “Company Will Be Arriving Soon” (B)
It’s merge time!
This is great for some players, like the alliance of Brenda, NaOnka, Chase, and Sash. For some players it doesn't really matter, like Dan, because he doesn't care to win anyway. It sucks for Alina because, as much as she is on the outs already, now she is the lowest on the totem pole.
I don't know why everyone views Marty as such a threat. Sure, he was able to convince the older tribe of voting off his competition, but now he is powerless. He doesn't even have his idol to fall back on. As much as he complained at the beginning of the game that the older tribe did very little intense game playing, he isn't making any real power plays, or even trying. He needs to expose Brenda's alliance and get the votes to vote them out. Until then he is just a sitting duck.
Ironically, I think NaOnka stealing the food and equipment and getting caught actually helps her game. She is an essential part of her dominating alliance and now, why wouldn't anyone want to take her to the end? How could she even win? Of course she thinks she has potential but that is because she is making a classic mistake - not playing the social game.
Although I doubt it will happen, I think Jud/Fabio would be another great person to take to the end. Can you imagine him trying to convince the jury why he should win? He will probably end up being confused by their questions.
It’s merge time!
This is great for some players, like the alliance of Brenda, NaOnka, Chase, and Sash. For some players it doesn't really matter, like Dan, because he doesn't care to win anyway. It sucks for Alina because, as much as she is on the outs already, now she is the lowest on the totem pole.
I don't know why everyone views Marty as such a threat. Sure, he was able to convince the older tribe of voting off his competition, but now he is powerless. He doesn't even have his idol to fall back on. As much as he complained at the beginning of the game that the older tribe did very little intense game playing, he isn't making any real power plays, or even trying. He needs to expose Brenda's alliance and get the votes to vote them out. Until then he is just a sitting duck.
Ironically, I think NaOnka stealing the food and equipment and getting caught actually helps her game. She is an essential part of her dominating alliance and now, why wouldn't anyone want to take her to the end? How could she even win? Of course she thinks she has potential but that is because she is making a classic mistake - not playing the social game.
Although I doubt it will happen, I think Jud/Fabio would be another great person to take to the end. Can you imagine him trying to convince the jury why he should win? He will probably end up being confused by their questions.
What I'm Watching: Nikita
Nikita: Season 1, Episode 8 “Phoenix” (C)
It's a bit hard to appreciate the moral ambiguity on this show when good guy Thom's first kill isn't some poor, innocent woman caught up in a corrupt scheme but instead a willing Russian spy. Somehow, Nikita managed to get on Division's trail and track the woman without having the slightest suspicion that she might actually be a guilty victim. The use of one sole fake family photograph is quite the Achilles' Heel, and at least Nikita is able to see through something to peg the mourning parents as the spies they were. Nikita really isn't good at gaining allies, whether they're disgruntled Division recruits or enemies of enemies. The way that both Thom and Michael are written, you'd think that they would make for the perfect friends to have in the right places, yet she just can't seem to get along with anyone except for her trusted ally Alex, who really comes through for her in this episode in a way that she hasn't yet been called upon to do. We also have people like Owen the Guardian and Robbie the Cleaner running around somewhere in plot limbo, and I'm fairly unsure of when, if ever, they're going to come into play. I think this show might be well served to go the route that the now-cancelled “Undercovers” was going to go, to pursue the overarching storyline more actively rather than episodic cases with throwaway heroes and villains. It would certainly make for a more compelling case and give the show a reason to be renewed.
It's a bit hard to appreciate the moral ambiguity on this show when good guy Thom's first kill isn't some poor, innocent woman caught up in a corrupt scheme but instead a willing Russian spy. Somehow, Nikita managed to get on Division's trail and track the woman without having the slightest suspicion that she might actually be a guilty victim. The use of one sole fake family photograph is quite the Achilles' Heel, and at least Nikita is able to see through something to peg the mourning parents as the spies they were. Nikita really isn't good at gaining allies, whether they're disgruntled Division recruits or enemies of enemies. The way that both Thom and Michael are written, you'd think that they would make for the perfect friends to have in the right places, yet she just can't seem to get along with anyone except for her trusted ally Alex, who really comes through for her in this episode in a way that she hasn't yet been called upon to do. We also have people like Owen the Guardian and Robbie the Cleaner running around somewhere in plot limbo, and I'm fairly unsure of when, if ever, they're going to come into play. I think this show might be well served to go the route that the now-cancelled “Undercovers” was going to go, to pursue the overarching storyline more actively rather than episodic cases with throwaway heroes and villains. It would certainly make for a more compelling case and give the show a reason to be renewed.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
What I’m Watching: The Office
The Office: Season 7, Episode 7 “Christening” (B-)
I think this is one of those “classic Michael” episodes that was promised by the writers for this season, and I’m not terribly thrilled about that (I doubt G1000 is either). It contains the kind of awkward, almost unbearable actions Michael chooses to take without delivering the hilarity along with it. These out-of-office field trips only succeed part of the time, and I would posit that this is only a semi-successful effort. Watching Jim and Pam try to deal with the ridiculousness of Michael and the rest of the employees is something we’ve seen before at their wedding, yet it still works, due mostly to the talents of John Krasinski and the lovely Jenna Fischer. Otherwise, there was nothing particularly memorable about this episode (in a positive way, at least) since Michael’s move was so obviously bone-headed and the inevitable disembarkment was rather painful. I did enjoy the fact that Ryan had more lines all of a sudden and that Angela expressed her love of babies in a rather creepy way, still coupled with a hatred for all things Pam. The shot of Creed and Darryl asleep on each other was amusing, and it indicates to me that it would likely be a whole lot of fun to work on this show and have the actors goofing off regularly while shooting (I’m sure both Creed and Craig Robinson are hilarious). Regarding that opening scene, there’s just no one out there like Dwight, who would ask people to start sneezing on him in order to build up his immune system.
I think this is one of those “classic Michael” episodes that was promised by the writers for this season, and I’m not terribly thrilled about that (I doubt G1000 is either). It contains the kind of awkward, almost unbearable actions Michael chooses to take without delivering the hilarity along with it. These out-of-office field trips only succeed part of the time, and I would posit that this is only a semi-successful effort. Watching Jim and Pam try to deal with the ridiculousness of Michael and the rest of the employees is something we’ve seen before at their wedding, yet it still works, due mostly to the talents of John Krasinski and the lovely Jenna Fischer. Otherwise, there was nothing particularly memorable about this episode (in a positive way, at least) since Michael’s move was so obviously bone-headed and the inevitable disembarkment was rather painful. I did enjoy the fact that Ryan had more lines all of a sudden and that Angela expressed her love of babies in a rather creepy way, still coupled with a hatred for all things Pam. The shot of Creed and Darryl asleep on each other was amusing, and it indicates to me that it would likely be a whole lot of fun to work on this show and have the actors goofing off regularly while shooting (I’m sure both Creed and Craig Robinson are hilarious). Regarding that opening scene, there’s just no one out there like Dwight, who would ask people to start sneezing on him in order to build up his immune system.
What I’m Watching: 30 Rock
30 Rock: Season 5, Episode 6 “Gentleman’s Intermission” (B+)
I will admit that this was one of the funniest episodes of this show that I’ve seen in a long time. Jack’s search for a new sad soul to mentor and Liz’s efforts to get her father to realize that he needs to go back to her mother came together to create one hilarious half-hour of television. There’s just something about the way that Alec Baldwin delivers his lines that’s completely incredible. Another chance to see the often-absent Avery isn’t a bad thing, especially when she’s acting generally crazy. Jack’s four qualifications for being worthy of his mentorship, childish acronym aside, were very entertaining, and I liked how each of his candidates were dismissed for some reason or another, the random executive at the end for the most obvious of reasons. I enjoyed all of the quick things muttered under his or others’ breath during this installment. Tracy’s ownership of the New York Necks, the all-giraffe basketball team, was definitely my favorite subplot. This episode helped to remind me that sometimes the irreverence on this show works wonders, and it’s very fitting that this show come a week after the show didn’t even air at all and thus was not missed by this TV viewer. After five seasons, Tina Fey and company do know what they’re doing, and while there will be miss episodes every now and then, there will also be hits. And that final montage of Liz running through why all the names are terrible was very funny.
I will admit that this was one of the funniest episodes of this show that I’ve seen in a long time. Jack’s search for a new sad soul to mentor and Liz’s efforts to get her father to realize that he needs to go back to her mother came together to create one hilarious half-hour of television. There’s just something about the way that Alec Baldwin delivers his lines that’s completely incredible. Another chance to see the often-absent Avery isn’t a bad thing, especially when she’s acting generally crazy. Jack’s four qualifications for being worthy of his mentorship, childish acronym aside, were very entertaining, and I liked how each of his candidates were dismissed for some reason or another, the random executive at the end for the most obvious of reasons. I enjoyed all of the quick things muttered under his or others’ breath during this installment. Tracy’s ownership of the New York Necks, the all-giraffe basketball team, was definitely my favorite subplot. This episode helped to remind me that sometimes the irreverence on this show works wonders, and it’s very fitting that this show come a week after the show didn’t even air at all and thus was not missed by this TV viewer. After five seasons, Tina Fey and company do know what they’re doing, and while there will be miss episodes every now and then, there will also be hits. And that final montage of Liz running through why all the names are terrible was very funny.
What Drew's Watching: Bones
Bones: Season 6, Episode 5 "The Bones that Weren't"
Wait a minute, what? I wait two whole weeks for the next episode to air, and I get this? Generally if the murder victim has an odd occupation (a male ballerina à la Rahm Emanuel in this one) or lifestyle, it lets the show embark on an engaging exploration of that subject matter. (The bounty hunters and guidos come to mind from this season.) Here, however, there's very little delving into the world of ballet, let alone ballet from a male perspective, save a few esoteric terms agonizingly couched in Bones's maladroit French accent. There is no action to speak of unless you count interminable street-dance sequences. I remember the existence of some comedic moments, but they weren't good enough to imprint details. The episode's trajectory is painfully predictable--I gave it the two plot points only because I found the technological tools this time around fascinating (no matter that my putative expert girlfriend condemned all of them as BS). I mean, come on--of course Hannah gets shot going into a bad neighborhood, and of course Booth supports her even though he disapproves of her pursuing the story. Thank God Bones looked like a normal human being in this one, or it would have been a total bust. Now, I'll admit that I had a lousy week, so maybe I'm not giving this episode its due. That said, unless you received a million dollars and a unicorn in the mail recently, best skip this one.
Plot: 2/10
Action: 0/10
Characters: 2/10
Comedy: 4/10
Bones's Makeup: 3/10
Overall Grade: D
Wait a minute, what? I wait two whole weeks for the next episode to air, and I get this? Generally if the murder victim has an odd occupation (a male ballerina à la Rahm Emanuel in this one) or lifestyle, it lets the show embark on an engaging exploration of that subject matter. (The bounty hunters and guidos come to mind from this season.) Here, however, there's very little delving into the world of ballet, let alone ballet from a male perspective, save a few esoteric terms agonizingly couched in Bones's maladroit French accent. There is no action to speak of unless you count interminable street-dance sequences. I remember the existence of some comedic moments, but they weren't good enough to imprint details. The episode's trajectory is painfully predictable--I gave it the two plot points only because I found the technological tools this time around fascinating (no matter that my putative expert girlfriend condemned all of them as BS). I mean, come on--of course Hannah gets shot going into a bad neighborhood, and of course Booth supports her even though he disapproves of her pursuing the story. Thank God Bones looked like a normal human being in this one, or it would have been a total bust. Now, I'll admit that I had a lousy week, so maybe I'm not giving this episode its due. That said, unless you received a million dollars and a unicorn in the mail recently, best skip this one.
Plot: 2/10
Action: 0/10
Characters: 2/10
Comedy: 4/10
Bones's Makeup: 3/10
Overall Grade: D
Saturday, November 6, 2010
What I’m Watching: Modern Family
Modern Family: Season 2, Episode 7 “Chirp” (B+)
It doesn’t seem like this show will ever run out of relatable family dynamic plotlines to turn into comedic gold. The impossible-to-locate beeping smoke detector is a great and believable way to keep Phil occupied for an entire episode, and seeing him get frustrated after doing everything he possibly can to find and check every single unit in the house was entertaining. I enjoyed the fact that it was Luke’s placement of the old units in the attic that was causing it the whole time, in addition to Luke’s attempt not to catch a cold despite his fondness for kissing pigeons on the mouth. With the middle child absent from the episode, Haley and Claire had a nice session of misunderstood bonding as they were both home sick, and I love how much credit Haley tried to give herself despite completely misunderstanding the situation. Her celebration of her alleged success to Luke and her swift dismissal of the pizza boy at the end of the episode were very funny little moments. Cameron’s moments, as usual, were considerably bigger, and I liked how he went behind Mitchell’s back to get Lily into the commercial then promptly taking a stand when he heard the ridiculous and offensive accents being put on by the voice actors. There’s nothing like the relationship between Jay and Manny, and I like how Manny gave up the intel to ensure that Jay went to the right place to celebrate one of one million different anniversaries with Gloria when Jay called him his kid. Very touching.
It doesn’t seem like this show will ever run out of relatable family dynamic plotlines to turn into comedic gold. The impossible-to-locate beeping smoke detector is a great and believable way to keep Phil occupied for an entire episode, and seeing him get frustrated after doing everything he possibly can to find and check every single unit in the house was entertaining. I enjoyed the fact that it was Luke’s placement of the old units in the attic that was causing it the whole time, in addition to Luke’s attempt not to catch a cold despite his fondness for kissing pigeons on the mouth. With the middle child absent from the episode, Haley and Claire had a nice session of misunderstood bonding as they were both home sick, and I love how much credit Haley tried to give herself despite completely misunderstanding the situation. Her celebration of her alleged success to Luke and her swift dismissal of the pizza boy at the end of the episode were very funny little moments. Cameron’s moments, as usual, were considerably bigger, and I liked how he went behind Mitchell’s back to get Lily into the commercial then promptly taking a stand when he heard the ridiculous and offensive accents being put on by the voice actors. There’s nothing like the relationship between Jay and Manny, and I like how Manny gave up the intel to ensure that Jay went to the right place to celebrate one of one million different anniversaries with Gloria when Jay called him his kid. Very touching.
Friday, November 5, 2010
What I’m Watching: Better With You
Better With You: Season 1, Episode 7 “Better with Road Joel” (B+)
A division along gender lines isn’t something we’ve seen on this show before, and it’s a fun gimmick for an episode. Pairing the boys with the boys and the girls with the girl was entertaining and worked very well. Ben’s desperate search for Casey’s approval and friendship is amusing as always, and throwing Joel into the mix definitely shakes things up. This episode also was the first (I believe) that didn’t start with the traditional three couples solving a problem in different ways and instead saved that for the end. Perhaps that means the show is really getting its legs and emphasizing its specific characters rather than the character tropes themselves? I’d cite is a positive evolution of an already decently good show. This episode marked the second time that I laughed out loud for an extended period of time, and that was thanks to Ben’s reaction to Maddie detailing that she thought she was having an online affair and that she hadn’t really done much to investigate. All I need is one or two scenes with Ben getting flustered and I’m set. His post-shower conversation flashback that accidentally occurred in front of Joel and Vicky was funny as well. I’m not quite sure what to make of Casey’s mom, played by Valerie Mahaffey, recently seen as Alma Hodge on “Desperate Housewives.” She didn’t contribute much to the show, but seeing Vicky step in to defend her daughter and threaten her with awful grandmother names was fun, as was Mia’s own desperate search for an in-law’s approval.
A division along gender lines isn’t something we’ve seen on this show before, and it’s a fun gimmick for an episode. Pairing the boys with the boys and the girls with the girl was entertaining and worked very well. Ben’s desperate search for Casey’s approval and friendship is amusing as always, and throwing Joel into the mix definitely shakes things up. This episode also was the first (I believe) that didn’t start with the traditional three couples solving a problem in different ways and instead saved that for the end. Perhaps that means the show is really getting its legs and emphasizing its specific characters rather than the character tropes themselves? I’d cite is a positive evolution of an already decently good show. This episode marked the second time that I laughed out loud for an extended period of time, and that was thanks to Ben’s reaction to Maddie detailing that she thought she was having an online affair and that she hadn’t really done much to investigate. All I need is one or two scenes with Ben getting flustered and I’m set. His post-shower conversation flashback that accidentally occurred in front of Joel and Vicky was funny as well. I’m not quite sure what to make of Casey’s mom, played by Valerie Mahaffey, recently seen as Alma Hodge on “Desperate Housewives.” She didn’t contribute much to the show, but seeing Vicky step in to defend her daughter and threaten her with awful grandmother names was fun, as was Mia’s own desperate search for an in-law’s approval.
What I’m Watching: Undercovers
Undercovers: Season 1, Episode 7 “Assassin” (B+)
I continue to see articles about how bad this show is, and one site even proclaims it the most likely NBC show to be cancelled by 2011 (really, over “Outsourced” and “The Event”?). My attitude, therefore, is that I’m going to enjoy it while it can. I’ve also read that the focus in the coming episodes is going to be on the greater mythology of the Blooms and their relationship with the CIA than episodic cases, and while that doesn’t seem to be the case with this episode, I think that’s a positive step for the show. The guest appearance of one David Anders in this episode was a plus, and it’s nice to see a J.J. Abrams favorite and “Alias” alum back on one of his shows. Silly Samantha for thinking that Sark can be trusted! Fortunately, expert marksman and super awesome husband Steven managed to take him down and allow her the opportunity to break free of her bonds and show him who’s boss. It was a good thing that Samantha’s college friend didn’t turn out to be a duplicitous spy trying to infiltrate her personal life, and I much prefer Leo flirting with Lizzy as the only link between the personal and (secret) professional lives of the Blooms. Lizzy is a fringe character who hasn’t yet been featured extensively, and maybe this new focus on the Blooms and their relationship with the CIA will be just the trick for getting to know more about Samantha’s least favorite sister.
And no sooner did I write this post and the show is officially cancelled. Yikes. It's a shame.
I continue to see articles about how bad this show is, and one site even proclaims it the most likely NBC show to be cancelled by 2011 (really, over “Outsourced” and “The Event”?). My attitude, therefore, is that I’m going to enjoy it while it can. I’ve also read that the focus in the coming episodes is going to be on the greater mythology of the Blooms and their relationship with the CIA than episodic cases, and while that doesn’t seem to be the case with this episode, I think that’s a positive step for the show. The guest appearance of one David Anders in this episode was a plus, and it’s nice to see a J.J. Abrams favorite and “Alias” alum back on one of his shows. Silly Samantha for thinking that Sark can be trusted! Fortunately, expert marksman and super awesome husband Steven managed to take him down and allow her the opportunity to break free of her bonds and show him who’s boss. It was a good thing that Samantha’s college friend didn’t turn out to be a duplicitous spy trying to infiltrate her personal life, and I much prefer Leo flirting with Lizzy as the only link between the personal and (secret) professional lives of the Blooms. Lizzy is a fringe character who hasn’t yet been featured extensively, and maybe this new focus on the Blooms and their relationship with the CIA will be just the trick for getting to know more about Samantha’s least favorite sister.
And no sooner did I write this post and the show is officially cancelled. Yikes. It's a shame.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
What I’m Watching: Sons of Anarchy
Sons of Anarchy: Season 3, Episode 9 “Turas” (B+)
While SAMCRO has certainly been in precarious situations before, there’s nothing like an attempted assassination by explosion to launch an attack on your nerves. Even taking the attack at the funeral into account, this is the most direct threat on their lives that has occurred to this point, and it’s certainly going to leave an impression on its members. Watching them so easily slide through the blockade put on by the police did seem to indicate that something was gravely wrong and that our dear members were in danger. Fortunately, no one of true importance to the series lost their life, and that’s equally true of the scare with Jimmy coming in guns blazing looking for the SAMCRO women. Gemma keeps pointing guns at people with duplicitous intentions, and she’s going to get herself shot one of these days. Speaking of Gemma’s predicament back home, Stahl is going to be in a terrible situation when her partner confronts her about all the secretive talking she’s been doing and the lies she’s been telling. As if the younger Hale brother wasn’t involved in enough shady business, now he’s gotten himself on tape hiring a disgruntled Mayan to scare off the poor old guy from last week. Tara is now more involved that she’s ever been as some sort of hostage, and the revelation that her boss has a tattoo on her back comes from out of nowhere. It’s definitely intriguing, and I’m worried for the livelihood of both of them considering their top rescuers are overseas.
While SAMCRO has certainly been in precarious situations before, there’s nothing like an attempted assassination by explosion to launch an attack on your nerves. Even taking the attack at the funeral into account, this is the most direct threat on their lives that has occurred to this point, and it’s certainly going to leave an impression on its members. Watching them so easily slide through the blockade put on by the police did seem to indicate that something was gravely wrong and that our dear members were in danger. Fortunately, no one of true importance to the series lost their life, and that’s equally true of the scare with Jimmy coming in guns blazing looking for the SAMCRO women. Gemma keeps pointing guns at people with duplicitous intentions, and she’s going to get herself shot one of these days. Speaking of Gemma’s predicament back home, Stahl is going to be in a terrible situation when her partner confronts her about all the secretive talking she’s been doing and the lies she’s been telling. As if the younger Hale brother wasn’t involved in enough shady business, now he’s gotten himself on tape hiring a disgruntled Mayan to scare off the poor old guy from last week. Tara is now more involved that she’s ever been as some sort of hostage, and the revelation that her boss has a tattoo on her back comes from out of nowhere. It’s definitely intriguing, and I’m worried for the livelihood of both of them considering their top rescuers are overseas.
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