Monday, February 15, 2010

The Mentalist: Season 2 Episode 14 ' Blood In, Blood Out' Review


Finally an episode centered around Cho; the strict, serious and by the book character. In fact even through the most hilarity of scenes Cho maintains his permanent serious expression, docile and disciplined. Although there were times Cho did try to bend the rules a bit for Jane, that only showed his obligations to the people he works with and cares about. I am actually surprised that with Cho''s actions and capabilities, he isn't his own boss. Certainly his rough past would have something to do with that.

At least the writers decided to play with Cho's character a bit more by giving him a girlfriend. She seemed very understanding of the person he was and remained calm even after her life was threatened on her boyfriend's behalf. That only showed the depth in the length of time they were dating, probably for a good while. "Kimball you are talking even less than you normally do". How much less could that be?

It's funny that when Elise (Cho's girlfriend) was first introduced to Lisbon, Rigsby and Jane, she referred to herself as Cho's friend. It seemed likely that they were friends and something more than that. For her to know about Lisbon and Rigbsy personally, down to what they looked like showed the deep connection she had with Cho even before this first interaction. I wonder what Cho thinks about Jane for Elise to believe he was scary? It doesn't seem like Cho fears Jane, maybe he holds a decency of respect for him.

Did anyone else notice the emphasis on Jane's wedding ring in the beginning 'coin toss' between Jane and Rigsby? It's not question why Jane still holds on to it, it was like the cameras were deliberately placed on his hands to reveal it. It is strange how 'Red John' hasn't made a decent topic in weeks and it's like Boscow's death became a memory of some sort. Jane is not able to move on until that case is resolved and it's like the writers are holding out on us, as if it's the last trick in the hat to surprise us.

Jane and Lisbon weren't used much, basically because of Cho's story and an insight into his past. Rigsby and Van Pelt were also scarcely used, the only hint with the shape of their relationship, was the suggestion from Cho that Van Pelt was probably holding out on Rigsby. Which was probably why he had time to obsess over a coin trick, as though his desire had transferred. I don't believe they had anytime to discuss their relationship. Things were probably the same as the last time we saw them at each others' throats.

On most occasions writers found ways to mess up couples when they get together to the time they break up, but they managed t keep flame lit here, with all couples actually. Even though Jane and Lisbon, aren't a couple, I always look forward for scenes with them together.

As for the case that was equally entertaining. I figured out the culprit the moment Cho went out with the Director and the Janitor appeared suddenly. It was more obvious when the Director didn't come clean while being beaten by Cho and the missed fire in the end to make the Janitor talk was far-fetched. It was unbelievable at that point that Cho would be crazy enough to kill anyone that got in the way of the truth. That entire scene went against Cho's principles as a cop. I guess his friend meant a lot to have him risk his job for the truth. I wonder when did they have the time to concoct such a scheme. It kind of blew over for me the more they tried to get the janitor to confess. I knew Cho wasn't going to kill him. It would have been nice if it was shown as though Cho had truly lost it, like Teresa in 'Red Badge'.

As for that Director, didn't they just kill him off in 24? He seems to be attracted to many villain roles. I surely didn't like him here either. Huge mistake threatening Cho buddy!

I am happy that Cho and Elise's relationship wasn't dented, she still maintained a calm front around him... I believe it's love. I doubt he would let anyone else call him Kimball.

Lexa

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Four Stars

Grade B-
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