The Gang Finds a Dead Guy
First Aired: Tuesday September 6, 2005
After the gang finds a dead body in the bar, Dennis and Mac try to win over the man's granddaughter. Meanwhile, Dee makes Charlie take her to see her Pop-pop, leading Charlie to a revelation about Dennis' lineage.
Just like the previous episode that had more subtle and built up humor, this episode was certainly fun to watch. Even though Charlie had supposedly closed up the bar, a man had died overnight. While the gang worries about what to do about the booth he died in, the man's granddaughter comes to find out about her grandfather. Mac and Dennis then compete with each other to win the girl, trying to show they knew he father more than the other. They even go as far as to get some bums to pretend to have been the grandfathers friends.
Meanwhile, Dee decides to visit her own grandfather before it is too later. It turns out that has a very serious fear of old people. She enlists the help of Charlie, but when they get to the old people home, she bails on him and he is left with her grandfather. He mistakes Charlie for Dennis and asks him to retrieve his war uniform. Agreeing to this, it turns out that the man had been a Nazi officer, so Charlie and Mac try to sell the mementos to a museum. When their plan fails, they burn the goods, but not before Mac drops the bomb on Dennis after Dennis had revealed he had slept with the mans granddaughter.
The humor in this episode was subtle and spot on. The moment when Mac saw Charlie in the uniform was particularly hilarious. I especially enjoyed this episode because, even though Dennis got the girl, he was still devastated by news of his grandfathers past. It was also amusing to see Dee's relentless phobia towards old people, but I only wish they did a bit more with it, or even in subsequent episodes.
Score: 9.1 / 10
Saturday, July 21, 2007
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia - S1E5
Gun Fever
First Aired: Tuesday August 30, 2005
In this episode of Sunny, the bar gets robbed and the gang decides to purchase a gun. Mac and Dennis then decided to find out who robbed them and believe it is Dee's new boyfriend.
After being robbed of their small safe and the cops can't help them, the gang decides to get a gun. However, the "gun fever" gets the best of the them and they can't put the thing down. Charlie even uses it to intimidate his landlord. Mac and Dennis decide to do some detective work and figure out that the true robber is Dee's boyfriend Colin, played by Michael Rosenbaum (Smallville). When they set up a sting on him, the actual robber that night turns out to be Charlie, who needs money for rent. Dennis shoots him in the head ... only a gaze though. The episode ends with Colin robbing the bar again while the gang is at the hospital.
I really enjoyed this episode, even though it wasn't a laugh a minute one-line script like most of them. The part I found the most hysterical was the parts with Charlie and his landlord, Mr. Hwang. The rest of the episode's humor was mainly situational, but it played well with the theme of the episode. It was good to see Rosenbaum in a role other than Lex Luthor and, being a fan of his work on Smallville, I really enjoyed his guest starring in this episode.
Score: 8.7 / 10
First Aired: Tuesday August 30, 2005
In this episode of Sunny, the bar gets robbed and the gang decides to purchase a gun. Mac and Dennis then decided to find out who robbed them and believe it is Dee's new boyfriend.
After being robbed of their small safe and the cops can't help them, the gang decides to get a gun. However, the "gun fever" gets the best of the them and they can't put the thing down. Charlie even uses it to intimidate his landlord. Mac and Dennis decide to do some detective work and figure out that the true robber is Dee's boyfriend Colin, played by Michael Rosenbaum (Smallville). When they set up a sting on him, the actual robber that night turns out to be Charlie, who needs money for rent. Dennis shoots him in the head ... only a gaze though. The episode ends with Colin robbing the bar again while the gang is at the hospital.
I really enjoyed this episode, even though it wasn't a laugh a minute one-line script like most of them. The part I found the most hysterical was the parts with Charlie and his landlord, Mr. Hwang. The rest of the episode's humor was mainly situational, but it played well with the theme of the episode. It was good to see Rosenbaum in a role other than Lex Luthor and, being a fan of his work on Smallville, I really enjoyed his guest starring in this episode.
Score: 8.7 / 10
Vacancy (2007)
Theatrical Release: April 20, 2007
This riveting thriller features Luke Wilson and Kate Beckinsale as a couple whose car breaks down, stranding them at a very dangerous hotel. Director Nimrod Antal carefully builds the suspense as the film gradually leads to horror when the hotel turns out to be a snuff film operation, with cameras everywhere and lots of truly horrific videos of past murders (shot in the same room) lying atop the TV set. The couple needs to think fast before they become the next victims.
In the past decade, I have found it hard to find a good horror movie. The three exceptions to this have been In the Mouth of Madness, The Ring, and Saw. The reason I loved these movies so much was mostly because of the very real tension coupled with the mystery and fear pervading the movie. The 2007 Vacancy is now part of what I consider a good horror movie, where horror in my mind is anything that can fright or leave one, well, horrified.
In the movie, a couple are currently on the outs due to an accident that killed their only son. On the way home form a party, the husband, played wonderfully by Luke Wilson, takes a short cut. During the travels, engine trouble forces the two to say at the Pineridge Motel, which is managed by a very creepy guy. As they settle in for the night, strange knocking pervades their rest and they are confronted with VHS tapes in their room that show grisly murders with a slight twist: the room in the tapes is the room they currently occupy. The remainder of the movie shows the two trying to fight their unknown assailants and make it through the night.
The film did manage to set me on the edge of my seat, though the first twenty minutes was all about building to the meat of the story. I am usually averse to human-based horror flicks, since I like a dab of the strange, but this one was able grab me. Of course with any movie like this, the killers are head strong and sure of their goal. They are relentless, since they had never met people with such staunch conviction to live and use their wits. While one knows that in the long run, something will come to almost all of the killers, there is always that little nagging at the back of my mind that says either one or both of the main characters will be killed in the end. Still, I do nothing but wish the most horrible end possible for the perpetrators, which I am sure that the writers and director wanted to evoke in me.
The film was very well directed, above average for horror and suspense movies. Like I mentioned, the acting of Luke Wilson was very good. I only had passing knowledge of his work prior to this, still preferring him over his brother Owen, and I was very happy with his performance. As for Beckinsale, it was nice to see her in a role where she is vulnerable to her surrounds and that doesn't play up her sex appeal. This was also the first time with this actress that she really gave me a good movie experience.
A very good entry to the suspense and horror genre. Nothing that will change the genre, but at least better than some of the other recent big screen fare out right now.
Score: 7.9 / 10
This riveting thriller features Luke Wilson and Kate Beckinsale as a couple whose car breaks down, stranding them at a very dangerous hotel. Director Nimrod Antal carefully builds the suspense as the film gradually leads to horror when the hotel turns out to be a snuff film operation, with cameras everywhere and lots of truly horrific videos of past murders (shot in the same room) lying atop the TV set. The couple needs to think fast before they become the next victims.
In the past decade, I have found it hard to find a good horror movie. The three exceptions to this have been In the Mouth of Madness, The Ring, and Saw. The reason I loved these movies so much was mostly because of the very real tension coupled with the mystery and fear pervading the movie. The 2007 Vacancy is now part of what I consider a good horror movie, where horror in my mind is anything that can fright or leave one, well, horrified.
In the movie, a couple are currently on the outs due to an accident that killed their only son. On the way home form a party, the husband, played wonderfully by Luke Wilson, takes a short cut. During the travels, engine trouble forces the two to say at the Pineridge Motel, which is managed by a very creepy guy. As they settle in for the night, strange knocking pervades their rest and they are confronted with VHS tapes in their room that show grisly murders with a slight twist: the room in the tapes is the room they currently occupy. The remainder of the movie shows the two trying to fight their unknown assailants and make it through the night.
The film did manage to set me on the edge of my seat, though the first twenty minutes was all about building to the meat of the story. I am usually averse to human-based horror flicks, since I like a dab of the strange, but this one was able grab me. Of course with any movie like this, the killers are head strong and sure of their goal. They are relentless, since they had never met people with such staunch conviction to live and use their wits. While one knows that in the long run, something will come to almost all of the killers, there is always that little nagging at the back of my mind that says either one or both of the main characters will be killed in the end. Still, I do nothing but wish the most horrible end possible for the perpetrators, which I am sure that the writers and director wanted to evoke in me.
The film was very well directed, above average for horror and suspense movies. Like I mentioned, the acting of Luke Wilson was very good. I only had passing knowledge of his work prior to this, still preferring him over his brother Owen, and I was very happy with his performance. As for Beckinsale, it was nice to see her in a role where she is vulnerable to her surrounds and that doesn't play up her sex appeal. This was also the first time with this actress that she really gave me a good movie experience.
A very good entry to the suspense and horror genre. Nothing that will change the genre, but at least better than some of the other recent big screen fare out right now.
Score: 7.9 / 10
Friday, July 20, 2007
NCAA Football 08
In NCAA Football 08 you'll put your heart, hustle, and toughness on the line, for the right to a championship win! With all-new Leadership Control, you can boost the motivation level of your teammates by making big plays. A Campus Legend mode and even deeper Dynasty Mode puts your coaching prowess and integrity to the ultimate test. With the all-new My Shrine, Home Field Advantage, and exciting new plays like the Statue of Liberty, NCAA Football 08 is everything that's great about college football. What kind of legacy will you leave?
Point of fact, I am watch college football with more interest than professional football because I personally believe that the players want in more at the collegiate level. That means that I usually pick up a copy of EA Sports' NCCA Football once every other year and I have never purchased a Madden game as a result. This is the first year that I get to play it on a sixth generation system, the Xbox 360. So far, I am very pleased with my purchase.
The first major option, once I created my dynasty season (PSU), was that I was allowed to do pre-season options. I personnally know that many people couldn't wait to try this new, expanded feature out, but I am not a micromanager in the least and decided to simulate through this.
As I booted up my first game of the season, I was astounded by the level of detail in the players and their action. Of course, the story for a while was that the X360 version would be running at 20fps more than the PS3 version, but I didn't think that would effect me since I play on a pretty old television. I was wrong. I think the thing I like the most is the collision control after a play, such as when I player is celebrating: he won't "jump through" adjacent player but notice that they are there. Also, when you do a good play, you can see the frustration on the opposition even before the play is over.
Maybe it is because I haven't gotten into the groove with this game yet, but the difficulty and the game AI is pretty good. Granted, I have won my first four games, including against #2 Michigan, but the Michigan game was a close 31-28 victory with my offense being horrid (the QB gave up four interceptions with a 10.2 rating at the end), but my defense was top-notch.
This was a sound purchase. I plan on doing a full review at the end of the first season after I have given it a bit more time.
Point of fact, I am watch college football with more interest than professional football because I personally believe that the players want in more at the collegiate level. That means that I usually pick up a copy of EA Sports' NCCA Football once every other year and I have never purchased a Madden game as a result. This is the first year that I get to play it on a sixth generation system, the Xbox 360. So far, I am very pleased with my purchase.
The first major option, once I created my dynasty season (PSU), was that I was allowed to do pre-season options. I personnally know that many people couldn't wait to try this new, expanded feature out, but I am not a micromanager in the least and decided to simulate through this.
As I booted up my first game of the season, I was astounded by the level of detail in the players and their action. Of course, the story for a while was that the X360 version would be running at 20fps more than the PS3 version, but I didn't think that would effect me since I play on a pretty old television. I was wrong. I think the thing I like the most is the collision control after a play, such as when I player is celebrating: he won't "jump through" adjacent player but notice that they are there. Also, when you do a good play, you can see the frustration on the opposition even before the play is over.
Maybe it is because I haven't gotten into the groove with this game yet, but the difficulty and the game AI is pretty good. Granted, I have won my first four games, including against #2 Michigan, but the Michigan game was a close 31-28 victory with my offense being horrid (the QB gave up four interceptions with a 10.2 rating at the end), but my defense was top-notch.
This was a sound purchase. I plan on doing a full review at the end of the first season after I have given it a bit more time.
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia - S1E4
Charlie Has Cancer
First Aired: Tuesday August 23, 2005
The gang finds out that Charlie has cancer and the guys try to find a woman to sleep with him, settling on the waitress. Mac starts a "friendship" with a hot transsexual while Dee tries to find cheap help at the bar.
Up until this point, I felt Charlie had the best storylines and acting. This episode, however, shows the finer points of Mac. He is what makes this episode as good as it is.
Charlie confides in Dennis that he has cancer, which he then tells Mac and Dee. The guys decide to get Charlie something he never gets (laid) and decide to go after the waitress. In the process, Mac meets Carmen, a gorgeous transsexual, here played by Brittany Daniels (Dawsons Creek, That 80's Show), and falls for her/him. In the process of trying woo her into going out with Charlie, Dennis sleeps with the waitress. Mac, however, is able to convince her to sleep with Charlie anyway ... for $250. Charlie later reveals that he was lying in order for Dennis to get the waitress to go out with him, but reveals she didn't sleep with him. As for Mac, he accidentally hit Carmen and was chased by a group of guys for the act. The episode ends with Dennis and Mac trying to get their money back from the waitress, who doesn't relent.
I felt that the main storyline was good, but not great. Charlie did some wonderful somber acting for sure, but I still think I am not a big fan of Dennis unless the others are ripping on him. Mac's storyline, however, was hilarious. His comments and the looks of shame that he gives are classic. They are what make this episode stand out. I feel this one is a bit better than the previous episode dealing with the prom, but only by a little.
Score: 8.6 / 10
First Aired: Tuesday August 23, 2005
The gang finds out that Charlie has cancer and the guys try to find a woman to sleep with him, settling on the waitress. Mac starts a "friendship" with a hot transsexual while Dee tries to find cheap help at the bar.
Up until this point, I felt Charlie had the best storylines and acting. This episode, however, shows the finer points of Mac. He is what makes this episode as good as it is.
Charlie confides in Dennis that he has cancer, which he then tells Mac and Dee. The guys decide to get Charlie something he never gets (laid) and decide to go after the waitress. In the process, Mac meets Carmen, a gorgeous transsexual, here played by Brittany Daniels (Dawsons Creek, That 80's Show), and falls for her/him. In the process of trying woo her into going out with Charlie, Dennis sleeps with the waitress. Mac, however, is able to convince her to sleep with Charlie anyway ... for $250. Charlie later reveals that he was lying in order for Dennis to get the waitress to go out with him, but reveals she didn't sleep with him. As for Mac, he accidentally hit Carmen and was chased by a group of guys for the act. The episode ends with Dennis and Mac trying to get their money back from the waitress, who doesn't relent.
I felt that the main storyline was good, but not great. Charlie did some wonderful somber acting for sure, but I still think I am not a big fan of Dennis unless the others are ripping on him. Mac's storyline, however, was hilarious. His comments and the looks of shame that he gives are classic. They are what make this episode stand out. I feel this one is a bit better than the previous episode dealing with the prom, but only by a little.
Score: 8.6 / 10
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia - S1E3
Underage Drinking: A National Concern
First Aired: Tuesday August 16, 2005
After finding out they are doing good business, the gang tries a experiment to let underage kids drink in the bar. Shortly after, the gang gets involved in relationships with the high school kids and are all asked to the prom ... except for Mac.
A hilarious episode in which the gang serves alcohol to minors. The problems really start when Dee starts to go out with one of the high school kids, Trey, and when Mac and Charlie are invited to a party just to provide the alcohol. Trey's ex-girlfriend blackmails Dennis into taking her to the prom, but her and Trey make up at the pre-prom party at Paddy's leaving Dee and Dennis behind. Charlie was also asked to the prom and still ends up going. Mac had planned to crash the prom and go stag, but after the plan dissolves, he opts out.
On the acting of Mac and Charlie, again this is another episode that shines. It is fun to get a look into the background of the gang and it seems like how I thought they would be. The one who suffers the most from their high school past, though, seems to be Dennis after finding out that someone had slept with his date on prom night. He had found this out after instigating Mac and Charlie. Dee's story faltered a little, as I have noticed often, but her performance in the last five minutes more than makes up for the previous fifteen.
Score: 8.3 / 10
First Aired: Tuesday August 16, 2005
After finding out they are doing good business, the gang tries a experiment to let underage kids drink in the bar. Shortly after, the gang gets involved in relationships with the high school kids and are all asked to the prom ... except for Mac.
A hilarious episode in which the gang serves alcohol to minors. The problems really start when Dee starts to go out with one of the high school kids, Trey, and when Mac and Charlie are invited to a party just to provide the alcohol. Trey's ex-girlfriend blackmails Dennis into taking her to the prom, but her and Trey make up at the pre-prom party at Paddy's leaving Dee and Dennis behind. Charlie was also asked to the prom and still ends up going. Mac had planned to crash the prom and go stag, but after the plan dissolves, he opts out.
On the acting of Mac and Charlie, again this is another episode that shines. It is fun to get a look into the background of the gang and it seems like how I thought they would be. The one who suffers the most from their high school past, though, seems to be Dennis after finding out that someone had slept with his date on prom night. He had found this out after instigating Mac and Charlie. Dee's story faltered a little, as I have noticed often, but her performance in the last five minutes more than makes up for the previous fifteen.
Score: 8.3 / 10
Picket Fences - S1E16
The Body Politic
First Aired: Friday February 5, 1993
Jimmy becomes suspicious that the contracted town dentist has HIV. The mayor fires him when it is shown true. Also, a new resident is found to be harboring the comatose body of his wife in order to allow her to give birth.
Wow, if nothing else, that is how I would describe the final minutes and the last scene of this episode. I will describe why in more detail in the closing paragraph.
During the open scene, a dentist contracted by the town to give weekly checkups at the school becomes agitated after Zach Brock bites him. Jimmy then confronts the doctor later, asking if he is HIV positive. When the doctor doesn't respond, Jimmy talks to Jill and finds out that it is true. Jimmy and the mayor then confer and give the dentist an ultimatum: either he discloses this information to the public, or he resigns, or they fire him. He doesn't relent to the first two and is instead fired. He takes his case to the courts because he feels he was discriminated. Tensions between Jill and Jimmy begin to rise because Jill knew of this and continued to send her children to the dentist, even though she knows Jimmy would not allow it if he knew.
In the other story, Howard believes he sees his new neighbor bringing a corpse into his house. When Maxine confronts the man, he refuses to allow a search of his home, leading Maxine to request a search warrant from Judge Bone. Upon inspection of the property, they find the legally dead, but machine run body of the man's wife. He is keeping her alive so that she may carry her pregnancy to term. The mother of the woman shows up and demands that he daughters will be carried out; that she be taken off life support.
In the final court room scene, Judge Henry Bone allows the body to be sustained in order to provide the life insider of her. He came to this conclusion after seeing that her lisence says she is an organ donor and he felt that is what she is doing; using her organs to bring life to fruition. In the second ruling, Judge Bone rules that the Mayor was wrong in his decision and that there is no law that says a doctor must reveal that he is HIV positive. Judge Bone concludes by saying that HIV prejudice will always be prevailing and the only thing the dentist can do is to push on.
As I said, the final courtroom scene was very moving and the writing was very top notch for Judge Bone. It certainly elevated the episode to a higher pedestal. While in all of the other episodes such as this, we do see into the lives of the people on trial, there was a very poignant conversation in the middle of the episode. The dentist showed up at the hospital to see the woman and her husband; the woman represented life and death at the same time, and the dentist just had to see it for himself to appreciate his own mortality. I think this was a nice touch instead of always having one of the main or supporting actors as the focus of every scene. This is a recommended episode for, if nothing else, the final scenes. Though I have never watched his later shows, it is evident that David E. Kelly and his trusted writers are able to craft excellent courtroom fare.
Score: 8.6 / 10
First Aired: Friday February 5, 1993
Jimmy becomes suspicious that the contracted town dentist has HIV. The mayor fires him when it is shown true. Also, a new resident is found to be harboring the comatose body of his wife in order to allow her to give birth.
Wow, if nothing else, that is how I would describe the final minutes and the last scene of this episode. I will describe why in more detail in the closing paragraph.
During the open scene, a dentist contracted by the town to give weekly checkups at the school becomes agitated after Zach Brock bites him. Jimmy then confronts the doctor later, asking if he is HIV positive. When the doctor doesn't respond, Jimmy talks to Jill and finds out that it is true. Jimmy and the mayor then confer and give the dentist an ultimatum: either he discloses this information to the public, or he resigns, or they fire him. He doesn't relent to the first two and is instead fired. He takes his case to the courts because he feels he was discriminated. Tensions between Jill and Jimmy begin to rise because Jill knew of this and continued to send her children to the dentist, even though she knows Jimmy would not allow it if he knew.
In the other story, Howard believes he sees his new neighbor bringing a corpse into his house. When Maxine confronts the man, he refuses to allow a search of his home, leading Maxine to request a search warrant from Judge Bone. Upon inspection of the property, they find the legally dead, but machine run body of the man's wife. He is keeping her alive so that she may carry her pregnancy to term. The mother of the woman shows up and demands that he daughters will be carried out; that she be taken off life support.
In the final court room scene, Judge Henry Bone allows the body to be sustained in order to provide the life insider of her. He came to this conclusion after seeing that her lisence says she is an organ donor and he felt that is what she is doing; using her organs to bring life to fruition. In the second ruling, Judge Bone rules that the Mayor was wrong in his decision and that there is no law that says a doctor must reveal that he is HIV positive. Judge Bone concludes by saying that HIV prejudice will always be prevailing and the only thing the dentist can do is to push on.
As I said, the final courtroom scene was very moving and the writing was very top notch for Judge Bone. It certainly elevated the episode to a higher pedestal. While in all of the other episodes such as this, we do see into the lives of the people on trial, there was a very poignant conversation in the middle of the episode. The dentist showed up at the hospital to see the woman and her husband; the woman represented life and death at the same time, and the dentist just had to see it for himself to appreciate his own mortality. I think this was a nice touch instead of always having one of the main or supporting actors as the focus of every scene. This is a recommended episode for, if nothing else, the final scenes. Though I have never watched his later shows, it is evident that David E. Kelly and his trusted writers are able to craft excellent courtroom fare.
Score: 8.6 / 10
Angel - S1E11
Somnambulist
First Aired: Tuesday January 18, 2000
Angel has been having dreams of killing people, which seem to have been coming true. As he, Cordelia, and Wesley investigate, they find that the actually perpetrator of the crimes is a former sire of Angelus.
Another fine episode that I do not remember seeing. I really enjoyed the mystery surrounding Angelus' sire and the anguish that Angel now feels for having created him in the first place.
The past couple of nights of sleep, Angel has been having very lucid dreams of killing. Wesley shows up to compare information about the goings on in the city, but leaves abruptly when he sees a newspaper article about a series of murders. Angel goes to see Kate for some help with a case, but ends up seeing crime scene photos from the murders. When he returns to his office, Cordelia and Wesley are waiting with accusations, which he doesn't deny. They chain him up for the night and, after another murder happens, they figure out that the real killer is a former sire of Angelus'. Angel then goes and tells Kate the identity of the killer without giving away his secret. That evening during a pursuit, Angel fights Ben in front of Kate, revealing his vamp face. After Ben escapes and taunts Angel the next morning, Kate researches who both of them are and warns Angel to stay away. As Kate briefs her officers about Ben, it turns out that Ben is right in the room and takes Kate to the sewers. Here, Angel and Ben fight again. This comes to a climax when Kate takes a small beam of wood and stabs through Angel to kill Ben. The episode ends with Angel on the roof being consoled by Cordelia that he is now Angel and not Angelus, which the PTB are able to distinguish.
Like I said this was a really good episode and an inevitable one where Kate finds out Angel's true nature. I think it is good that he tells her, because once she comes to terms with this revelation, she may be able to help Angel more be sending him the "weird" cases. As always, David Boreanz's acting is top notch, as well as the guest star who plays Ben.
Score: 8.5 / 10
First Aired: Tuesday January 18, 2000
Angel has been having dreams of killing people, which seem to have been coming true. As he, Cordelia, and Wesley investigate, they find that the actually perpetrator of the crimes is a former sire of Angelus.
Another fine episode that I do not remember seeing. I really enjoyed the mystery surrounding Angelus' sire and the anguish that Angel now feels for having created him in the first place.
The past couple of nights of sleep, Angel has been having very lucid dreams of killing. Wesley shows up to compare information about the goings on in the city, but leaves abruptly when he sees a newspaper article about a series of murders. Angel goes to see Kate for some help with a case, but ends up seeing crime scene photos from the murders. When he returns to his office, Cordelia and Wesley are waiting with accusations, which he doesn't deny. They chain him up for the night and, after another murder happens, they figure out that the real killer is a former sire of Angelus'. Angel then goes and tells Kate the identity of the killer without giving away his secret. That evening during a pursuit, Angel fights Ben in front of Kate, revealing his vamp face. After Ben escapes and taunts Angel the next morning, Kate researches who both of them are and warns Angel to stay away. As Kate briefs her officers about Ben, it turns out that Ben is right in the room and takes Kate to the sewers. Here, Angel and Ben fight again. This comes to a climax when Kate takes a small beam of wood and stabs through Angel to kill Ben. The episode ends with Angel on the roof being consoled by Cordelia that he is now Angel and not Angelus, which the PTB are able to distinguish.
Like I said this was a really good episode and an inevitable one where Kate finds out Angel's true nature. I think it is good that he tells her, because once she comes to terms with this revelation, she may be able to help Angel more be sending him the "weird" cases. As always, David Boreanz's acting is top notch, as well as the guest star who plays Ben.
Score: 8.5 / 10
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Picket Fences - S1E15
Nuclear Meltdowns
First Aired: Friday January 22, 1993
Kimberly's friend becomes pregnant, but her family life is not what it seems after this revelation. Also, Maxine investigates the strange occurrence of a mans death tied to "cult" and Kenny goes out with a mysterious woman looking for answers.
First Aired: Friday January 22, 1993
Kimberly's friend becomes pregnant, but her family life is not what it seems after this revelation. Also, Maxine investigates the strange occurrence of a mans death tied to "cult" and Kenny goes out with a mysterious woman looking for answers.
A very fine episode here, with, as the norm with Picket Fences, equal parts drama and humor. The show continues to question my thoughts on many different aspects of what is considered normal, without the show becoming too comical for its own good.
The main storyline revolves are Kimberly's friend Jodie Elyse becoming pregnant. Kim becomes suspicious because her friend hasn't ever had a boyfriend as far as she knows. The subject is compounded further when Kim witnesses her friend and her friend's father sharing a rather intamite kiss. The speculation and secret reach Jimmy, who arrests the fathers on charges of incest. However, before the court case can even start, it is revealed that the family are of the Mormon religion, that the father practices polygamy, and that Kimberly's friend is actually his wife, not his daughter. Judge Bone dismisses the charge of incest and tells counsel to make them dissolve one marriage to allow them to all live together. This was another interesting and controversial topic for the time. Having read the book "Under the Banner of Heaven", which dealt heavily with fundamental Mormons, I think this episode was very well handled and again shows the two sides of the coin. It tries to show one side is not exclusively good or bad and that, as Judge Bone says, the normal American family/home is becoming incredibly skewed.
One of the side story's involved Maxine wondering about the death of an old man and whether his son had done something. A family pet duck had gone missing the previous day and in the nose of the deceased Maxine found a duck feather. Her and Ginny go undercover to the funeral of the man and witness what appears to be occult ceremonies, such as the sacrifice of a goat. When the case goes to court, Judge Bone dismisses the case due to religious freedom within the bounds of the law. I thought this was a good side story and I agree with the judge that people should be allowed to practice their religions within the law. The judge's acting was the best it's been so far in the episode, especially when he chides the courtroom about how they raised hell about the Christmas pageant but are readying the torches for this religion.
The other side story revolved around a woman Kenny pulls over. She says she felt something compelling her to come to Rome and believed that to be Kenny. The two have a date that evening and have sex, but the next day, it turns out that the real reason she felt like coming to Rome was because of her long-lost twin sister. The two had never met, but they both felt compelled to come to Rome, leading them to literally crash into each other. After the revelation, it turns out that they both want to date Kenny. This was another good side story like the other one, because it very humorous for Kenny's character. This was a very good episode with both the main storyline and the side story's all being above average. The acting in the episode was also great, especially that done by the judge.
Score: 8.3 / 10
The main storyline revolves are Kimberly's friend Jodie Elyse becoming pregnant. Kim becomes suspicious because her friend hasn't ever had a boyfriend as far as she knows. The subject is compounded further when Kim witnesses her friend and her friend's father sharing a rather intamite kiss. The speculation and secret reach Jimmy, who arrests the fathers on charges of incest. However, before the court case can even start, it is revealed that the family are of the Mormon religion, that the father practices polygamy, and that Kimberly's friend is actually his wife, not his daughter. Judge Bone dismisses the charge of incest and tells counsel to make them dissolve one marriage to allow them to all live together. This was another interesting and controversial topic for the time. Having read the book "Under the Banner of Heaven", which dealt heavily with fundamental Mormons, I think this episode was very well handled and again shows the two sides of the coin. It tries to show one side is not exclusively good or bad and that, as Judge Bone says, the normal American family/home is becoming incredibly skewed.
One of the side story's involved Maxine wondering about the death of an old man and whether his son had done something. A family pet duck had gone missing the previous day and in the nose of the deceased Maxine found a duck feather. Her and Ginny go undercover to the funeral of the man and witness what appears to be occult ceremonies, such as the sacrifice of a goat. When the case goes to court, Judge Bone dismisses the case due to religious freedom within the bounds of the law. I thought this was a good side story and I agree with the judge that people should be allowed to practice their religions within the law. The judge's acting was the best it's been so far in the episode, especially when he chides the courtroom about how they raised hell about the Christmas pageant but are readying the torches for this religion.
The other side story revolved around a woman Kenny pulls over. She says she felt something compelling her to come to Rome and believed that to be Kenny. The two have a date that evening and have sex, but the next day, it turns out that the real reason she felt like coming to Rome was because of her long-lost twin sister. The two had never met, but they both felt compelled to come to Rome, leading them to literally crash into each other. After the revelation, it turns out that they both want to date Kenny. This was another good side story like the other one, because it very humorous for Kenny's character. This was a very good episode with both the main storyline and the side story's all being above average. The acting in the episode was also great, especially that done by the judge.
Score: 8.3 / 10
Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends - S1E12
Adoptcalypse Now
First Aired: Friday October 15, 2004
Unbeknownst to Bloo and Mac, it is adoption day at Fosters Home. When they realize the true meaning of the day, they do everything in their power to stop anyone from getting adopted.
First Aired: Friday October 15, 2004
Unbeknownst to Bloo and Mac, it is adoption day at Fosters Home. When they realize the true meaning of the day, they do everything in their power to stop anyone from getting adopted.
This was a good episode that didn't have a whole lot of laughs but just enough to make it funny enough. Bloo and Mac try to bring their friends inside from outside to stop them from being adopted during "Adopt-a-Friend Saturday". The bulk of the episode was spent watching Bloo and Mac scheme and then succeed in bringing friends back into the home. This part of the episode is basically action-packed, with the characters resulting in a Benny Hill Show type of pursuit.
I found the most humorous moments to take place with Mr. Herriman or with Eduardo. Mac slyly points out that Mr. Herriman doesn't wear clothes (ie, the "Daffy Duck complex") and for the rest of the episode, he tries to hold on a pair of pants. As for Eduardo, it is both sweet and funny when he is frightened by the cutest little girl. Besides Bloo, he is perhaps my favorite character due to his naivety and timidness.
As I said, this was a good episode that was mainly based in action with a good touch of humor. Not the best, but certainly not the worst.
Score: 8 / 10
I found the most humorous moments to take place with Mr. Herriman or with Eduardo. Mac slyly points out that Mr. Herriman doesn't wear clothes (ie, the "Daffy Duck complex") and for the rest of the episode, he tries to hold on a pair of pants. As for Eduardo, it is both sweet and funny when he is frightened by the cutest little girl. Besides Bloo, he is perhaps my favorite character due to his naivety and timidness.
As I said, this was a good episode that was mainly based in action with a good touch of humor. Not the best, but certainly not the worst.
Score: 8 / 10
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia - S1E02
Charlie Wants an Abortion
First Aired: Thursday August 11, 2005
An old girlfriend of Charlie's comes to tell him that he has a 10 year old son. Mac joins a pro-life organization to score with a girl while Dee and Denis join the pro-lifers.
First Aired: Thursday August 11, 2005
An old girlfriend of Charlie's comes to tell him that he has a 10 year old son. Mac joins a pro-life organization to score with a girl while Dee and Denis join the pro-lifers.
A very funny Charlie episode where he finds out that he has a son. Everything seems to be going wrong for him with the child, a rambunctious hell raiser, until he sees the waitress and tells her that he is his "big brother" in order to get points with her. He then finds out that the child isn't his and that his girlfriend was trying to pull a fast one because he needed a role model. At first, Charlie is angry but he still needs to kid to fulfill his car pool "date" with the waitress to a Big Brother/Big Sister picnic. Charlie Day is an expectational over-the-top actor in the comedic realm. His expressions, even the most minute sigh or look, can invoke hilarity. While I felt sorry for Charlie having to deal with the kid, I sometimes felt worse for the kid to have such a father as Charlie. There were a number of parts that I rewound multiple times just to laugh at his performance.
The other storyline dealt with Mac trying to score with a pro-lifer at abortion rallies. After telling Dennis about the scam, Dennie decides to join in, but opts for the pro-choicers since Mac talks them up a bit more. Dee and Denis join the pro-choicers, but Denis gets shot down multiple times. I enjoyed his performance much more in this episode, especially during the rally, then I did in the first episode. Dee was also funny when trying to help Charlie get a date with the waitress. Mac, on the other hand, has a problem when the girl he has been with tells him she is pregnant and straight away says she needs an abortion. However, she was lying to see if Mac was the one.
The episode ends with Charlie's pseudo-son getting drunk at the bar. Charlie takes him into the alley to get try to get him sober, but in his hate filled ranting at the kid, the waitress had showed up. This was a very funny episode and very easy recommendation for a first watch. Again, the writers are able to take on sensitive subject matter, abortion, and satirize and parody it.
Score: 9.0 / 10
The other storyline dealt with Mac trying to score with a pro-lifer at abortion rallies. After telling Dennis about the scam, Dennie decides to join in, but opts for the pro-choicers since Mac talks them up a bit more. Dee and Denis join the pro-choicers, but Denis gets shot down multiple times. I enjoyed his performance much more in this episode, especially during the rally, then I did in the first episode. Dee was also funny when trying to help Charlie get a date with the waitress. Mac, on the other hand, has a problem when the girl he has been with tells him she is pregnant and straight away says she needs an abortion. However, she was lying to see if Mac was the one.
The episode ends with Charlie's pseudo-son getting drunk at the bar. Charlie takes him into the alley to get try to get him sober, but in his hate filled ranting at the kid, the waitress had showed up. This was a very funny episode and very easy recommendation for a first watch. Again, the writers are able to take on sensitive subject matter, abortion, and satirize and parody it.
Score: 9.0 / 10
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia - S1E01
The Gang Gets Racist
First Aired: Thursday August 4, 2005
In the pilot episode of the show, the gang hires a bar promoter to help buisness at the bar. However, it turns out that he is gay and has made Paddy's Pub the hottest gay bar in town. Also, Mac and Charlie try to prove they aren't racist.
First Aired: Thursday August 4, 2005
In the pilot episode of the show, the gang hires a bar promoter to help buisness at the bar. However, it turns out that he is gay and has made Paddy's Pub the hottest gay bar in town. Also, Mac and Charlie try to prove they aren't racist.
Ah, Sunny. My favorite comedy of all time, how I love thee. So, I figured I would look back at my old tapes and watch everyone again before the third season premier, reviewing them in the process.
The first episode of Sunny just jumps right in to it's abrasiveness by presenting the gang with a problems with racism and homosexuality. After Dee brings her new acting class friend to the bar, the gang decides to hire him to promote the bar. It turns out, though, that he is gay and has made Paddy's the most desirable gay bar in the city. Dennis and Charlie are fine with this due to the amount of money they are making, thanks in part to the attention Dennis gets as bartender. Dee and Mac are against this; Dee is still mad that her friend is gay and Mac doesn't want to be associated with homosexuals after seeing his cousin in the bar. I found this storyline to be less funny than the other one with Mac and Charlie, but it had it's moments at the end. The other storyline involves Charlie and Mac trying not to be racist. Charlie's crush, a coffee shop waitress, overhears him say the n-word in a very horrible way (even though he was quoting someone else). Mac wants to prove himself after embarrassing the gang when talking to Dee's friend at the bar. The two end up going to Temple University to make some black friends, resulting in Charlie getting the most attention particularly from the women. He takes one girl out, but he takes her to the coffee shop to prove to the waitress that he is not racist. His date is told this, though, and she knocks him out. At the end of the episode, it turns out she is Dee's friends' sister and the friend quits the job. Now, Mac and Charlie together are one of the prime reasons I got into this show. The way they deliver their lines, both the comical ones and run-of-the-mill ones, can evoke everything from a chuckle to laughing out loud. It is at times hard to figure out who is more socially awkward, but this is why these two characters work so well.
A great first episode for this wonderful show. It starts with the punches from the get go and doesn't let up. They don't shy away from the tough situations and always find a way to satirize the situations. Highly recommended.
Score: 8.5 / 10
The first episode of Sunny just jumps right in to it's abrasiveness by presenting the gang with a problems with racism and homosexuality. After Dee brings her new acting class friend to the bar, the gang decides to hire him to promote the bar. It turns out, though, that he is gay and has made Paddy's the most desirable gay bar in the city. Dennis and Charlie are fine with this due to the amount of money they are making, thanks in part to the attention Dennis gets as bartender. Dee and Mac are against this; Dee is still mad that her friend is gay and Mac doesn't want to be associated with homosexuals after seeing his cousin in the bar. I found this storyline to be less funny than the other one with Mac and Charlie, but it had it's moments at the end. The other storyline involves Charlie and Mac trying not to be racist. Charlie's crush, a coffee shop waitress, overhears him say the n-word in a very horrible way (even though he was quoting someone else). Mac wants to prove himself after embarrassing the gang when talking to Dee's friend at the bar. The two end up going to Temple University to make some black friends, resulting in Charlie getting the most attention particularly from the women. He takes one girl out, but he takes her to the coffee shop to prove to the waitress that he is not racist. His date is told this, though, and she knocks him out. At the end of the episode, it turns out she is Dee's friends' sister and the friend quits the job. Now, Mac and Charlie together are one of the prime reasons I got into this show. The way they deliver their lines, both the comical ones and run-of-the-mill ones, can evoke everything from a chuckle to laughing out loud. It is at times hard to figure out who is more socially awkward, but this is why these two characters work so well.
A great first episode for this wonderful show. It starts with the punches from the get go and doesn't let up. They don't shy away from the tough situations and always find a way to satirize the situations. Highly recommended.
Score: 8.5 / 10
Picket Fences - S1E14
Bad Moons Rising
First Aired: Friday January 15, 1993
Carter Pike's girlfriend runs her ex-husband over with a steamroller. At the trial, Wambaugh claims she had suffered temporary insanity due to the onset of menopause. Also, Matt Brock begins to have sexually suggestive dreams.
Score: 8.0 / 10
First Aired: Friday January 15, 1993
Carter Pike's girlfriend runs her ex-husband over with a steamroller. At the trial, Wambaugh claims she had suffered temporary insanity due to the onset of menopause. Also, Matt Brock begins to have sexually suggestive dreams.
After taking his date on their third date, Carter Pike is hit over the head with a planter by her because she feels his advances are too aggressive. The next day, she then runs over her husband John with a steamroller. Even though she confesses to the crime, at the arraignment she and Wambaugh claim she was temporary insane when she did it due to menopause. This leads to a controversial case in which Jill becomes involved. As a male, I enjoyed this episode because it shed some light on things I was unaware of, even though the episode is ~17 years old. I like the stories where Carter is part of the main storyline. I think the courtroom scene and the debating of whether menopause is a plausible reason for insanity both were very interesting. I also enjoyed the ending, since it really isn't a happy one and I think I like these kinds of endings the most since that is how life is; things don't always end on a good note. As for the side story, this was a nice comical diversion from the main storyline. It turns out that Matt Brock is starting to have sexual dreams, involving Maxine no less, and is going through puberty. It was funny to see the contrasting of desires in the dream, between the sexual and the generally entertaining (Gameboy, baseball cards). I think I laughed the most when he dreamed Kenny coming out of the closest to bust him and Maxine. The conversation with Jimmy was also very comical because you can see the struggle in Jimmy of how to present the facts to Matt. All in all, a very good side story.
This was a good episode, not a big highlight but not a let down either. I personally enjoy ones that make you think and any of them that involve Carter as a main character.
This was a good episode, not a big highlight but not a let down either. I personally enjoy ones that make you think and any of them that involve Carter as a main character.
Score: 8.0 / 10
Picket Fences - S1E13
Frog Man
First Aired: Friday January 8, 1993
The town is in the grip of a crime wave by a figure the police have called the Frog Man. After Kenny gets shot by the Frog Man during a break in, the police believe they have their perp. Things don't go as plan, however.
Score: 8.0 / 10
First Aired: Friday January 8, 1993
The town is in the grip of a crime wave by a figure the police have called the Frog Man. After Kenny gets shot by the Frog Man during a break in, the police believe they have their perp. Things don't go as plan, however.
I am starting to see a bit of a pattern in the way episodes are presented. It seems that when one episode is family drama-centric with perhaps a crime/mystery secondary story the next episode seems to flip flop this. After last episodes dramatic story of Kim and her place in the Brock household, we have a main story that revolves around a mystery assailant and the subsequent actions.
In the main storyline, a person being called the Frog Man has been robbing stores and leaving frogs behind as a type of calling card. One night, Maxine and Kenny respond to a call at a jewelry store. Kenny gets shot by the Frog Man, who is wearing a mask, and almost dies at the hospital. Maxine then pursues Mr. LeBeck, played by the wonderful Broadway star Michael Jeter, who is an avid fan of frogs. However, because of technicalities, the man is left off even though he confessed to the crimes. However, it is in the closing moments that we find out that the man had actually been covering for his son.
This didn't catch me off guard at all, since the old who's the enemy switheroo is common, at least in my eyes. However, the acting by Jeter is what makes it more than the run of the mill scenario. The other storyline that surrounds the main one is the fact that Kenny can't deal with having been shot and blames Maxine. The friendship is being tested, since they are both right and wrong in different ways. It is good to see that tension, because it is readily apparent in most friendships and can sometimes rip them apart.
I enjoyed this episode even though I know where the resolution would be. It seems like they could have played a bit more on what made the kid do it; I am still wondering if it was because he was getting picked on or if it was in fact because he was embarrassed by his father or maybe a combination of both. Thanks to the acting by the guest stars, this was a good episode.
In the main storyline, a person being called the Frog Man has been robbing stores and leaving frogs behind as a type of calling card. One night, Maxine and Kenny respond to a call at a jewelry store. Kenny gets shot by the Frog Man, who is wearing a mask, and almost dies at the hospital. Maxine then pursues Mr. LeBeck, played by the wonderful Broadway star Michael Jeter, who is an avid fan of frogs. However, because of technicalities, the man is left off even though he confessed to the crimes. However, it is in the closing moments that we find out that the man had actually been covering for his son.
This didn't catch me off guard at all, since the old who's the enemy switheroo is common, at least in my eyes. However, the acting by Jeter is what makes it more than the run of the mill scenario. The other storyline that surrounds the main one is the fact that Kenny can't deal with having been shot and blames Maxine. The friendship is being tested, since they are both right and wrong in different ways. It is good to see that tension, because it is readily apparent in most friendships and can sometimes rip them apart.
I enjoyed this episode even though I know where the resolution would be. It seems like they could have played a bit more on what made the kid do it; I am still wondering if it was because he was getting picked on or if it was in fact because he was embarrassed by his father or maybe a combination of both. Thanks to the acting by the guest stars, this was a good episode.
Score: 8.0 / 10
Picket Fences - S1E12
High Tidings
First Aired: Friday December 18, 1992
The Brock family catches Kim in bed with her boyfriend, leading to an arrest and the cancellation of Christmas in the household. At the Sheriff Station, Max and Ginny are held hostage at gunpoint by an elderly man dressed as Santa Claus.
Score: 8.3 / 10
First Aired: Friday December 18, 1992
The Brock family catches Kim in bed with her boyfriend, leading to an arrest and the cancellation of Christmas in the household. At the Sheriff Station, Max and Ginny are held hostage at gunpoint by an elderly man dressed as Santa Claus.
Another episode where the main story is center around the Brock family dramas. This time, it is because Kim was caught having sex with a nineteen year old boy when Jill, Jimmy and the boys bust into her room to sing her Christmas carols. Jimmy trumps this around, demanding statutory rape, and this leads Kim to call on her real mother, Lydia.
I can only imagine the pain that Jimmy is going through seeing his only daughter in such a position. His reaction is to raise hell as the sheriff and he does a good job doing so. Tom Skerrit really shines in this episode due to the emotion he is meant to convey, especially during the waning moments. Also, the acting of Holly Marie Combs and Cristine Rose as Lydia were really well done. The conversations between Lydia and Jill were particularly interesting. In this episode, you can see Jill shying away from her usual calm demeanor while still adding a touch of humor, such as using Matt's device to hear Kim and Lydia's conversation. Very good and well acted storyline by the main characters.
The other storyline involves a man convinced he is Kris Kringle, aka Santa Claus, and has been giving out stolen goods on Christmas Eve. The storyline goes south after his daughter arrives at the Sheriff's station to pick him up, mentioning her father blames himself for a car accident that killed his wife and son. While distraught and trying to overcome his delusion, the Santa Claus takes Maxine and Ginny hostage. Eventually, Jimmy replaces them and finishes the standoff. While this is a lighthearted story to begin with, it takes a turn for the worse and ups the dramatic ante just a hair more. I found this storyline more interesting after we find out that the man was facing severe mental issues. This was a very good episode and furthered the relationship between Jimmy and Kim while showing/explaining some of the history with Jimmy's first wife. Another good ending for this type of show where no one is the enemy at the end and no one is truly at fault more than another.
I can only imagine the pain that Jimmy is going through seeing his only daughter in such a position. His reaction is to raise hell as the sheriff and he does a good job doing so. Tom Skerrit really shines in this episode due to the emotion he is meant to convey, especially during the waning moments. Also, the acting of Holly Marie Combs and Cristine Rose as Lydia were really well done. The conversations between Lydia and Jill were particularly interesting. In this episode, you can see Jill shying away from her usual calm demeanor while still adding a touch of humor, such as using Matt's device to hear Kim and Lydia's conversation. Very good and well acted storyline by the main characters.
The other storyline involves a man convinced he is Kris Kringle, aka Santa Claus, and has been giving out stolen goods on Christmas Eve. The storyline goes south after his daughter arrives at the Sheriff's station to pick him up, mentioning her father blames himself for a car accident that killed his wife and son. While distraught and trying to overcome his delusion, the Santa Claus takes Maxine and Ginny hostage. Eventually, Jimmy replaces them and finishes the standoff. While this is a lighthearted story to begin with, it takes a turn for the worse and ups the dramatic ante just a hair more. I found this storyline more interesting after we find out that the man was facing severe mental issues. This was a very good episode and furthered the relationship between Jimmy and Kim while showing/explaining some of the history with Jimmy's first wife. Another good ending for this type of show where no one is the enemy at the end and no one is truly at fault more than another.
Score: 8.3 / 10
Picket Fences - S1E11
Pageantry
First Aired: Friday December 11, 1992
The town's rabbi gets a court order to forbid the religious Christmas pageant from being performed in the school. This leads to the discovery that the teacher set to play the Virgin Mary is in fact a transsexual.
First Aired: Friday December 11, 1992
The town's rabbi gets a court order to forbid the religious Christmas pageant from being performed in the school. This leads to the discovery that the teacher set to play the Virgin Mary is in fact a transsexual.
"Now listen to me. I can put up with elephants and exploding cow udders and serial bathers and killing nuns, but I got no stomach for a transexual. It could make me faint." - Judge Henry
I really like the directions this show goes, usually making a swift turn in full stride of a story to tackle something even more alarming. In this episode, it begins with church vs. state as the Christmas pagent is canceled but then turns into a moral situation when a female teacher turns out to have been a man.
The acting all around was very good this episode, especially by the woman who was being persecuted. I find it doubly interesting since I have been hearing about the issue of transexuality and sex changes more often lately, the most recent being on NPR about a city official who was fired due to his pursuit to be a woman. And yet, this is episode was made and dealt with about 15 years ago, a time when such things were consider taboo conversation for a "family show". What I like about when they deal with hot issues on Picket Fences is that they are able to abjectly show both sides of the coin, though sometimes one side will be the more prominent and resolute.
I personally think that the most interesting part was near the middle where Carter confronted the woman, whom he had a short relationship with. She asked if, knowing what he knows now, would be ever consider kissing her again. After a short pause, he says no. As a male, I would have to say I would come to the same conclusion, even though I am open to other peoples personal decisions within the bounds of moral and judicial rights. But this is why I love this show besides the humor and drama ... it makes me think and consider possibilities I would have never thought of before and makes me take stock of my own moral perceptions. Again, another fine episode of this wonderful show.
Score: 8.8 / 10
I really like the directions this show goes, usually making a swift turn in full stride of a story to tackle something even more alarming. In this episode, it begins with church vs. state as the Christmas pagent is canceled but then turns into a moral situation when a female teacher turns out to have been a man.
The acting all around was very good this episode, especially by the woman who was being persecuted. I find it doubly interesting since I have been hearing about the issue of transexuality and sex changes more often lately, the most recent being on NPR about a city official who was fired due to his pursuit to be a woman. And yet, this is episode was made and dealt with about 15 years ago, a time when such things were consider taboo conversation for a "family show". What I like about when they deal with hot issues on Picket Fences is that they are able to abjectly show both sides of the coin, though sometimes one side will be the more prominent and resolute.
I personally think that the most interesting part was near the middle where Carter confronted the woman, whom he had a short relationship with. She asked if, knowing what he knows now, would be ever consider kissing her again. After a short pause, he says no. As a male, I would have to say I would come to the same conclusion, even though I am open to other peoples personal decisions within the bounds of moral and judicial rights. But this is why I love this show besides the humor and drama ... it makes me think and consider possibilities I would have never thought of before and makes me take stock of my own moral perceptions. Again, another fine episode of this wonderful show.
Score: 8.8 / 10
Joan of Arcadia - S1E19
Do the Math
First Aired: Friday April 2, 2004
Another fine episode of Joan of Arcadia in which God asks Joan to take piano lessons, leading to Will dealing with his half-brother and Joan's relationship with Adam reaching a point of revelation.
First Aired: Friday April 2, 2004
Another fine episode of Joan of Arcadia in which God asks Joan to take piano lessons, leading to Will dealing with his half-brother and Joan's relationship with Adam reaching a point of revelation.
"Why is she doing this?" - Kevin
"I've learned with your sister that it's best not to ask. She might try to explain." - Helen
God tells Joan to take piano lessons from a miserly old lady in return for house work as payment. During the course of learning and cleaning, Joan discovers an old LP by the lady performing a rendition of a classical piece by Bach. It turns out that even though the woman performed well on the album, she had trouble transferring the piece into a live setting, giving up on performing altogether. The discovery, however, seems to be the right sort of encouragement for the woman, since at the end of the episode, she is shown playing the piece on the piano. There is no more resolution to this main storyline besides Joan walking away with a smile, so I was left wanting just one more quick conversation with the woman.
While Joan is looking for old piano lesson books in the closet, she and Grace find old photos and a letter referencing a Will Gerardi. Will turns out to be Joan's fathers half-brother, who is father had after leaving him and his mother. Joe Montanya is a wonderful and powerful actor, and it is a shame he isn't currently on a regular show. His dramatic presence in this episode, between the contained feelings about his half-brother to his explosion at the kitchen table, he really made me sad. His side story here was amazingly acted.
As for Joan and Adam, it seems like they are ready to give each other a chance again. I am happy with this outcome because they are right for each other, but I can see why Joan is hesitant due to being influenced by God. It will be interesting to see the next episode and how this works out with Iris.
All in all, this was a very good episode, carried by the commanding acting of Montanya. While the main plot was bit unresolved in my eyes, I still think it served its purpose of producing the "good ripples" for Joan, Adam, and Will.
Score: 9.1 / 10
"I've learned with your sister that it's best not to ask. She might try to explain." - Helen
God tells Joan to take piano lessons from a miserly old lady in return for house work as payment. During the course of learning and cleaning, Joan discovers an old LP by the lady performing a rendition of a classical piece by Bach. It turns out that even though the woman performed well on the album, she had trouble transferring the piece into a live setting, giving up on performing altogether. The discovery, however, seems to be the right sort of encouragement for the woman, since at the end of the episode, she is shown playing the piece on the piano. There is no more resolution to this main storyline besides Joan walking away with a smile, so I was left wanting just one more quick conversation with the woman.
While Joan is looking for old piano lesson books in the closet, she and Grace find old photos and a letter referencing a Will Gerardi. Will turns out to be Joan's fathers half-brother, who is father had after leaving him and his mother. Joe Montanya is a wonderful and powerful actor, and it is a shame he isn't currently on a regular show. His dramatic presence in this episode, between the contained feelings about his half-brother to his explosion at the kitchen table, he really made me sad. His side story here was amazingly acted.
As for Joan and Adam, it seems like they are ready to give each other a chance again. I am happy with this outcome because they are right for each other, but I can see why Joan is hesitant due to being influenced by God. It will be interesting to see the next episode and how this works out with Iris.
All in all, this was a very good episode, carried by the commanding acting of Montanya. While the main plot was bit unresolved in my eyes, I still think it served its purpose of producing the "good ripples" for Joan, Adam, and Will.
Score: 9.1 / 10
Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends - S1E07
Dinner is Swerved
First Aired: Friday September 10, 2004
Bloo and Mac get lost in the home while trying to get to the ground floor. Since Bloo isn't present, Mr. Herriman refuses any other imaginary friends to eat until Bloo shows up. After awhile, he sends Wilt, Coco, and Eduardo to find Bloo and Mac.
First Aired: Friday September 10, 2004
Bloo and Mac get lost in the home while trying to get to the ground floor. Since Bloo isn't present, Mr. Herriman refuses any other imaginary friends to eat until Bloo shows up. After awhile, he sends Wilt, Coco, and Eduardo to find Bloo and Mac.
This episode is one of the main reasons I like this show so much. Out of the five I have watched from the DVD so far, this by far had me laughing the most and hitting the rewind button more than ever.
I think it really comes down to the character of Bloo in so many different aspects. The two prime ones are voice and animation. The voice actor, while first coming off as an annoying voice, really nails the different situations. A good example in this episode was when he was explaining the use of the clothes to Mac; the simple "I love you" at the end is hilarious. Then, on top of it, the animators make Bloos', and other characters', movements so spot on for humor. To go along with the speech mention before, the way Bloo moves and shifts his eyes when talking, while subtle, just adds even more to the hilarity.
A very, very good episode, I would recommend this one to people new to the show without hesitation. I even go out of my way to show people the section right near the middle where Bloo and Mac are on the roof talking about the pizza man. "No sheets."
Score: 9.5 / 10
I think it really comes down to the character of Bloo in so many different aspects. The two prime ones are voice and animation. The voice actor, while first coming off as an annoying voice, really nails the different situations. A good example in this episode was when he was explaining the use of the clothes to Mac; the simple "I love you" at the end is hilarious. Then, on top of it, the animators make Bloos', and other characters', movements so spot on for humor. To go along with the speech mention before, the way Bloo moves and shifts his eyes when talking, while subtle, just adds even more to the hilarity.
A very, very good episode, I would recommend this one to people new to the show without hesitation. I even go out of my way to show people the section right near the middle where Bloo and Mac are on the roof talking about the pizza man. "No sheets."
Score: 9.5 / 10
Joan of Arcadia - S1E20
Anonymous
First Aired: Friday April 30, 2004
Joan joins yearbook to find her calling while Luke and Freedman dealing with their friendship and Kevin seeks further understanding of his chances to walk again.
Joan's plot of this episode was one of the comical ones with only tinges of drama. While Adam and Joan are now together after Adam broke up with Iris, Joan feels disconnected since she doesn't have a "thing". This is understandable, since Adam has his art, Iris has her photograph, Grace has her brooding nature, Luke has science, etc. When God tells her to join yearbook, she thinks He will lead her to her calling. She believes this to be photography, which the yearbook editor gives her by default, but finds out she has very, very, very limited skills. After being **** out about her amatuerness, she quits but God tells her she shouldn't. She returns to the yearbook to perform menial tasks such as garbage collecting and, in the process, tosses the yearbooks' poetry submissions. She confesses to her mother, the adviser for the yearbook, who says she will cover for Joan but is overheard by the editor. Helen ends up defending Joan and quiting, but Joan does not join her walkout, since she still hasn't found her "thing". Joan then has to rifle through the garbage to find the poems, leading to the discovery of an anonymous one that is far better then the rest. In her search to find the author, she reads the poem to Adam who tells her it was written by Grace. Grace reveals it is hers, but she wrote it for personal use and through it out at lunch. She doesn't want the poem published. However, it is only at the end of the episode when Joan and Adam through flyer's of the poem into the air for other students to read that Grace seems to realize that perhaps her work is good.
I could almost feel the same amount of frustration that Joan was going through. I really did want Joan to find her "thing", but it turns out that just her doing stuff, thanks to God, is what she is good at. This does fit her personality and I think it is a nice touch at making her feel better about herself. Joan and Adam already seem strained after getting together, but it is most likely from the latent tension with Iris. I hope that the relationship will become more relaxed soon.
Luke and Glynis seem to be at the breaking point, since Luke is getting frustrated at his lack of independence. This is compounded by the fact that he is spending less time hanging out with his (only) friend, Friedman. It turns out that Friedman had come up with a girlfriend to hide his pain of missing his friendship with Luke and I think this was a good little plot; it was very in-character for Friedman to do. It seems more and more like Luke and Glynis are going to call it quits soon, leaving a way for Grace and Luke to finally get together, since I believe Luke was the object of her poem.
The final little plot line in the episode comes when Kevin, in a highly amusing scene, has Luke stick a dart in his behind to gage his perception of pain. After feeling a bit, Kevin becomes frustrated when his neurologist basically tells him the feeling does not mean much. In a huff, Kevin demands a second opinion, gives up on physio, and disses The Bear. It seems like he finally comes to the conclusion that he is in the wrong and stops his tantrum before long.
Overall, this was a above average episode, slightly better than the last one dealing with the piano lessons because I felt there was a better resolution of God's task. Also, I enjoyed Luke's storyline almost as much as the main one, mostly due to the character of Friedman. I think paved the way for some future plots and that they will lead to a good area.
Score: 9.2 / 10
First Aired: Friday April 30, 2004
Joan joins yearbook to find her calling while Luke and Freedman dealing with their friendship and Kevin seeks further understanding of his chances to walk again.
Joan's plot of this episode was one of the comical ones with only tinges of drama. While Adam and Joan are now together after Adam broke up with Iris, Joan feels disconnected since she doesn't have a "thing". This is understandable, since Adam has his art, Iris has her photograph, Grace has her brooding nature, Luke has science, etc. When God tells her to join yearbook, she thinks He will lead her to her calling. She believes this to be photography, which the yearbook editor gives her by default, but finds out she has very, very, very limited skills. After being **** out about her amatuerness, she quits but God tells her she shouldn't. She returns to the yearbook to perform menial tasks such as garbage collecting and, in the process, tosses the yearbooks' poetry submissions. She confesses to her mother, the adviser for the yearbook, who says she will cover for Joan but is overheard by the editor. Helen ends up defending Joan and quiting, but Joan does not join her walkout, since she still hasn't found her "thing". Joan then has to rifle through the garbage to find the poems, leading to the discovery of an anonymous one that is far better then the rest. In her search to find the author, she reads the poem to Adam who tells her it was written by Grace. Grace reveals it is hers, but she wrote it for personal use and through it out at lunch. She doesn't want the poem published. However, it is only at the end of the episode when Joan and Adam through flyer's of the poem into the air for other students to read that Grace seems to realize that perhaps her work is good.
I could almost feel the same amount of frustration that Joan was going through. I really did want Joan to find her "thing", but it turns out that just her doing stuff, thanks to God, is what she is good at. This does fit her personality and I think it is a nice touch at making her feel better about herself. Joan and Adam already seem strained after getting together, but it is most likely from the latent tension with Iris. I hope that the relationship will become more relaxed soon.
Luke and Glynis seem to be at the breaking point, since Luke is getting frustrated at his lack of independence. This is compounded by the fact that he is spending less time hanging out with his (only) friend, Friedman. It turns out that Friedman had come up with a girlfriend to hide his pain of missing his friendship with Luke and I think this was a good little plot; it was very in-character for Friedman to do. It seems more and more like Luke and Glynis are going to call it quits soon, leaving a way for Grace and Luke to finally get together, since I believe Luke was the object of her poem.
The final little plot line in the episode comes when Kevin, in a highly amusing scene, has Luke stick a dart in his behind to gage his perception of pain. After feeling a bit, Kevin becomes frustrated when his neurologist basically tells him the feeling does not mean much. In a huff, Kevin demands a second opinion, gives up on physio, and disses The Bear. It seems like he finally comes to the conclusion that he is in the wrong and stops his tantrum before long.
Overall, this was a above average episode, slightly better than the last one dealing with the piano lessons because I felt there was a better resolution of God's task. Also, I enjoyed Luke's storyline almost as much as the main one, mostly due to the character of Friedman. I think paved the way for some future plots and that they will lead to a good area.
Score: 9.2 / 10
Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends - S1E06
Busted
First Aired: Friday September 3, 2004
"This is no good. A bust this big needs ample support." - Bloo
Bloo is scolded by Mr. Herriman again and again on breaking rules. This frustration leads to the destruction one of Herriman's prized possessions and chaos ensues.
First Aired: Friday September 3, 2004
"This is no good. A bust this big needs ample support." - Bloo
Bloo is scolded by Mr. Herriman again and again on breaking rules. This frustration leads to the destruction one of Herriman's prized possessions and chaos ensues.
Another fine example of a episode of Foster's Home that while it is geared towards children, adults laugh at the subtle comments such as the quote above. It turns out that everything that Bloo is doing is against the rules of Mr. Herriman. He hovers over Bloo and corrects his mistakes ever step of the way. Finally, Bloo reaches a breaking point at which he doesn't want to move so he can't break any rules. However, he flies into a huff when Mac shows up, bumps into a pedestal with Madame Foster's statue/bust on top, and it falls to the ground to shatter to pieces. The group then scrambles through several ideas to little success just to find out that Herriman has a closet full of busts in his office.
Right from the start, this episode made me laugh. Though geared towards juvenile humor with having to pee, Bloo's voice and expressions make the events more comically appealing. The mad escapades are also giggle-worthy, but I personally got more humor out of the continued angering of Frankie. He willingness to yell at Herriman is hilarious.
This was a great episode and a good show primer after the pilot/movie. Laughs all around.
Score: 8.5 / 10
Right from the start, this episode made me laugh. Though geared towards juvenile humor with having to pee, Bloo's voice and expressions make the events more comically appealing. The mad escapades are also giggle-worthy, but I personally got more humor out of the continued angering of Frankie. He willingness to yell at Herriman is hilarious.
This was a great episode and a good show primer after the pilot/movie. Laughs all around.
Score: 8.5 / 10
Picket Fences - S1E09
Thanksgiving
First Aired: Friday November 13, 1992
Jill's father arrives for Thanksgiving with a young love in tow. Wambaugh has his wife Myriam arrested after he catches her in bed with Harold Lundstrom. It all adds up to a typically riotous and far from peaceful holiday in the Brock house.
First Aired: Friday November 13, 1992
Jill's father arrives for Thanksgiving with a young love in tow. Wambaugh has his wife Myriam arrested after he catches her in bed with Harold Lundstrom. It all adds up to a typically riotous and far from peaceful holiday in the Brock house.
The obligatory Thanksgiving episode, but as traditional for Picket Fences, it is anything but a traditional holiday. While a bit more dialog heavy then usual, especially in the middle where four conversations take place at the same time, the "message" still comes through.
From the first mention before her father even shows up, you can sense Jill has a strained relationship with her father that is only compounded further by his new love interest; a women who is younger than Jill. While at first the viewer is lead to believe there is a possible criminal/black widow storyline coming, the twist is a welcome departure from the obvious other storyline. Jill displays expectational pouting for the first half of the episode, but really shines in the second half where she turns back to the caring, understanding Jill that I prefer. Overall, I think that the Brock family storyline faltered for a bit but redeemed itself in it's finale.
Maxine and Kenny's storyline had me worried for a bit. The reason being is that I have come to the conclusion that I do not want to see the two getting tangled up in a relationship since I really don't feel it fits their characters. I feel that this will be further tested in the future, though. However, I do feel that this storyline continued to lay foundation to the already strong friendship the two maintain. While never actually mentioned by name, the masturbation conversation, most likely taboo at the time for prime-time television, was well handled and fitting for the two to discuss in the way they did.
The third storyline revolved around Doug Wambaugh and his wife, who had supposedly committed adultery. I think that this part of the episode could have been a bit more fleshed out, but I understand where the writers want to show the human nature of Wambaugh. I really saw the character in a new light during the pre-election episode due to his candid conversation with Jill about his motives for running. I am starting to feel that the humor is more-or-less containing the fragility that is the real Douglas Wambaugh.
Overall, I felt that the episode was average and didn't exactly "grab" me as other do. I am sure that this probably has to do with the fact that this was more of a drama episode than a strange crime type episode. I think this happens a lot with holiday-centric episodes. However, this is still a quality episode.
Score: 8.5 / 10
From the first mention before her father even shows up, you can sense Jill has a strained relationship with her father that is only compounded further by his new love interest; a women who is younger than Jill. While at first the viewer is lead to believe there is a possible criminal/black widow storyline coming, the twist is a welcome departure from the obvious other storyline. Jill displays expectational pouting for the first half of the episode, but really shines in the second half where she turns back to the caring, understanding Jill that I prefer. Overall, I think that the Brock family storyline faltered for a bit but redeemed itself in it's finale.
Maxine and Kenny's storyline had me worried for a bit. The reason being is that I have come to the conclusion that I do not want to see the two getting tangled up in a relationship since I really don't feel it fits their characters. I feel that this will be further tested in the future, though. However, I do feel that this storyline continued to lay foundation to the already strong friendship the two maintain. While never actually mentioned by name, the masturbation conversation, most likely taboo at the time for prime-time television, was well handled and fitting for the two to discuss in the way they did.
The third storyline revolved around Doug Wambaugh and his wife, who had supposedly committed adultery. I think that this part of the episode could have been a bit more fleshed out, but I understand where the writers want to show the human nature of Wambaugh. I really saw the character in a new light during the pre-election episode due to his candid conversation with Jill about his motives for running. I am starting to feel that the humor is more-or-less containing the fragility that is the real Douglas Wambaugh.
Overall, I felt that the episode was average and didn't exactly "grab" me as other do. I am sure that this probably has to do with the fact that this was more of a drama episode than a strange crime type episode. I think this happens a lot with holiday-centric episodes. However, this is still a quality episode.
Score: 8.5 / 10
Picket Fences S1E15
Nuclear Meltdowns
First Aired: Friday January 22, 1993
A very fine episode here, with, as the norm with Picket Fences, equal parts drama and humor. The show continues to question my thoughts on many different aspects of what is considered normal, without the show becoming too comical for its own good.
The main storyline revolves are Kimberly's friend Jodie Elyse becoming pregnant. Kim becomes suspicious because her friend hasn't ever had a boyfriend as far as she knows. The subject is compounded further when Kim witnesses her friend and her friend's father sharing a rather intamite kiss. The speculation and secret reach Jimmy, who arrests the fathers on charges of incest. However, before the court case can even start, it is revealed that the family are of the Mormon religion, that the father practices polygamy, and that Kimberly's friend is actually his wife, not his daughter. Judge Bone dismisses the charge of incest and tells counsel to make them dissolve one marriage to allow them to all live together. This was another interesting and controversial topic for the time. Having read the book "Under the Banner of Heaven", which dealt heavily with fundamental Mormons, I think this episode was very well handled and again shows the two sides of the coin. It tries to show one side is not exclusively good or bad and that, as Judge Bone says, the normal American family/home is becoming incredibly skewed.
One of the side story's involved Maxine wondering about the death of an old man and whether his son had done something. A family pet duck had gone missing the previous day and in the nose of the deceased Maxine found a duck feather. Her and Ginny go undercover to the funeral of the man and witness what appears to be occult ceremonies, such as the sacrifice of a goat. When the case goes to court, Judge Bone dismisses the case due to religious freedom within the bounds of the law. I thought this was a good side story and I agree with the judge that people should be allowed to practice their religions within the law. The judge's acting was the best it's been so far in the episode, especially when he chides the courtroom about how they raised hell about the Christmas pageant but are readying the torches for this religion.
The other side story revolved around a woman Kenny pulls over. She says she felt something compelling her to come to Rome and believed that to be Kenny. The two have a date that evening and have sex, but the next day, it turns out that the real reason she felt like coming to Rome was because of her long-lost twin sister. The two had never met, but they both felt compelled to come to Rome, leading them to literally crash into each other. After the revelation, it turns out that they both want to date Kenny. This was another good side story like the other one, because it very humorous for Kenny's character. This was a very good episode with both the main storyline and the side story's all being above average. The acting in the episode was also great, especially that done by the judge.
First Aired: Friday January 22, 1993
A very fine episode here, with, as the norm with Picket Fences, equal parts drama and humor. The show continues to question my thoughts on many different aspects of what is considered normal, without the show becoming too comical for its own good.
The main storyline revolves are Kimberly's friend Jodie Elyse becoming pregnant. Kim becomes suspicious because her friend hasn't ever had a boyfriend as far as she knows. The subject is compounded further when Kim witnesses her friend and her friend's father sharing a rather intamite kiss. The speculation and secret reach Jimmy, who arrests the fathers on charges of incest. However, before the court case can even start, it is revealed that the family are of the Mormon religion, that the father practices polygamy, and that Kimberly's friend is actually his wife, not his daughter. Judge Bone dismisses the charge of incest and tells counsel to make them dissolve one marriage to allow them to all live together. This was another interesting and controversial topic for the time. Having read the book "Under the Banner of Heaven", which dealt heavily with fundamental Mormons, I think this episode was very well handled and again shows the two sides of the coin. It tries to show one side is not exclusively good or bad and that, as Judge Bone says, the normal American family/home is becoming incredibly skewed.
One of the side story's involved Maxine wondering about the death of an old man and whether his son had done something. A family pet duck had gone missing the previous day and in the nose of the deceased Maxine found a duck feather. Her and Ginny go undercover to the funeral of the man and witness what appears to be occult ceremonies, such as the sacrifice of a goat. When the case goes to court, Judge Bone dismisses the case due to religious freedom within the bounds of the law. I thought this was a good side story and I agree with the judge that people should be allowed to practice their religions within the law. The judge's acting was the best it's been so far in the episode, especially when he chides the courtroom about how they raised hell about the Christmas pageant but are readying the torches for this religion.
The other side story revolved around a woman Kenny pulls over. She says she felt something compelling her to come to Rome and believed that to be Kenny. The two have a date that evening and have sex, but the next day, it turns out that the real reason she felt like coming to Rome was because of her long-lost twin sister. The two had never met, but they both felt compelled to come to Rome, leading them to literally crash into each other. After the revelation, it turns out that they both want to date Kenny. This was another good side story like the other one, because it very humorous for Kenny's character. This was a very good episode with both the main storyline and the side story's all being above average. The acting in the episode was also great, especially that done by the judge.
Angel S1E10
Parting Gifts
First Aired: Tuesday December 14, 1999
A little background information: I recently collected the final seasons I had been missing from my Angel and Buffy DVD collection. I have decided to watch both series through again in tandem from season 4 of Buffy and season 1 of Angel on through to the end of each. For some reason, which I think was because I was just starting college at the time, I don't remember much from the first two seasons of Angel, so it is nice to go through it again. I had already watched up until this episode before I decided to start reviewing them, so here we are.
It is apparent that the death of Doyle is hitting Angel and Cordelia both very hard, but it is a bit lightened by the fact that it was his sacrifice to save lives. While brooding, an empath demon named Barney comes looking for help from Angel because he is being pursued by an unknown force. Angel takes the case and, in the process of searching Barney's apartment, meets up with Wesley, of all people. It turns out that he is now a rogue demon hunter after being fired from the Watcher's Council for failing so badly with Faith and Buffy. It is quite fun to see the indifference that Angel holds for Wesley, but he allows him to help with the case after it turns out they are searching for the same demon, a Kungai. Upon finding the creature, Angel and Wesley find out that the demon was actually a victim of Barney, who has been harvesting demon powers and selling them at auction. Cordelia is taken by Barney as a result of her having "seers' eyes" and is sold at auction to a representative of Wolfram and Hart for $30,000. Wesley and Angel show up in time, however, and stop the sale from being finished. The episode ends with the three of the them having breakfast with, what appears to be, the unspoken resolution to have Wesley join Angel Investigations.
I really enjoyed the dynamic of the show with Glenn Quinn, but I understand now why he and his character removed from the series. Still, one can only wonder where things may have gone in regards to storylines. I think his giving of the "gift" to Cordelia is sweet in a way but horrible in another. Now she can't be too much of a slouch for Angel Investigations. At the time this episode and the subsequent ones appeared on television, I don't believe I was very receptive about Wesley joining the group. However, I now know where it will lead and look forward to the coming episodes again. The humor in this is top-notch, with such zingers from Cordelia as "what's a Rogue Demon" and her kissing all of the male characters in hope she can pass on the visions.
This episode was a good starting point for the new group, though not as riveting as the previous episode. I am happy with the final product, however.
Score: 8.5 / 10
First Aired: Tuesday December 14, 1999
A little background information: I recently collected the final seasons I had been missing from my Angel and Buffy DVD collection. I have decided to watch both series through again in tandem from season 4 of Buffy and season 1 of Angel on through to the end of each. For some reason, which I think was because I was just starting college at the time, I don't remember much from the first two seasons of Angel, so it is nice to go through it again. I had already watched up until this episode before I decided to start reviewing them, so here we are.
It is apparent that the death of Doyle is hitting Angel and Cordelia both very hard, but it is a bit lightened by the fact that it was his sacrifice to save lives. While brooding, an empath demon named Barney comes looking for help from Angel because he is being pursued by an unknown force. Angel takes the case and, in the process of searching Barney's apartment, meets up with Wesley, of all people. It turns out that he is now a rogue demon hunter after being fired from the Watcher's Council for failing so badly with Faith and Buffy. It is quite fun to see the indifference that Angel holds for Wesley, but he allows him to help with the case after it turns out they are searching for the same demon, a Kungai. Upon finding the creature, Angel and Wesley find out that the demon was actually a victim of Barney, who has been harvesting demon powers and selling them at auction. Cordelia is taken by Barney as a result of her having "seers' eyes" and is sold at auction to a representative of Wolfram and Hart for $30,000. Wesley and Angel show up in time, however, and stop the sale from being finished. The episode ends with the three of the them having breakfast with, what appears to be, the unspoken resolution to have Wesley join Angel Investigations.
I really enjoyed the dynamic of the show with Glenn Quinn, but I understand now why he and his character removed from the series. Still, one can only wonder where things may have gone in regards to storylines. I think his giving of the "gift" to Cordelia is sweet in a way but horrible in another. Now she can't be too much of a slouch for Angel Investigations. At the time this episode and the subsequent ones appeared on television, I don't believe I was very receptive about Wesley joining the group. However, I now know where it will lead and look forward to the coming episodes again. The humor in this is top-notch, with such zingers from Cordelia as "what's a Rogue Demon" and her kissing all of the male characters in hope she can pass on the visions.
This episode was a good starting point for the new group, though not as riveting as the previous episode. I am happy with the final product, however.
Score: 8.5 / 10
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)