Lexabuti Classic

Rookie Blue: The Butterflies Begin

2011-06-24T17:18:00.000-07:00

Well my favorite series is back, although I was a bit harsh with it last year, it is a fresh idea that could last a long time. I expected Rookie Blue to step up its game. It already established itself as amateur cops learning the way, they had to now take it a step up. Without hesitating, this cop show removed the melodrama nonsense which soaked up last season and focused solely on these cops' hearts. It worked, shined and above all delivered.

A huge break between Season 1 and Season 2, could leave most people out in the wilderness when it came to remembering a cast that was off screen for a long time. Their personalities happened to leave a memorable impression that stuck, so these characters were not forgotten. One thing I could not put down was McNally and Callaghan. I am not satisfied with the McNally and Callaghan pairing. I wanted them to take a break since last season their relationship seemed false. It was as though the handsome detective hooking up with the rookie was too cliche. We know nothing about Callaghan except that he was McNally's boyfriend.

Callaghan often came off false in the end and it made his input to the series pointless. Still we did get to know his ex in "Butterflies" and it seems that the writers are aiming to improve on the big question mark dangling over Callaghan. Callaghan's ex "Detective Jo Rosati" (Camille Sullivan) also starred as Emily (Red's ex-wife) in Hellcats. It was uncanny how much her role here mirrored the same role she portrayed in Hellcats. The typical ex reigning on her ex's new relationship. It would be too much of a replica if she ends up trying to break McNally and Callaghan up. She looked pretty upset seeing McNally and Callaghan together.

The surprise element when McNally was shot, was the highlight of the episode, completely unexpected. At first it seemed as though McNally was shot herself, but it had greater impact knowing that the sweet girl, was the real target. Swarek is so head over heels for McNally, that it became overwhelming to watch him comfort her after she was checked out. I kept thinking, why aren't they together?

Still this show had so much promise for this series premiere. A little more Nash getting screen time with Williams would have added a little push to the already interesting premiere. Also when McNally had the man who shot her at gunpoint, when the friend ran into her saying he's going to kill her, it was really annoying. McNally had the guy, to have this girl run into her. It had me thinking she was in on it somehow, but she was just crazy scared. McNally redeemed herself by catching the guy with such wit (no pun intended).

Other than that this was a solid introduction to season 2.

Lexa

Season 2, Episode 1 "Butterflies"
4 Stars

In Plain Sight: Mary, Mark and Baby?

2011-06-13T08:33:00.000-07:00

Thinking long and hard. This aint gonna be easy!

For as long as we've known Mary, family is not her strong suit. While most people dream about finding the one, settling down and eventually raising a family, Mary is more the type to sit back and nod at their silliness. Still, what does this mean for her and Mark? Could Mary really sit back and raise a child, or would Mark now be in the picture?

I have been loving the character Mary McCormack portrays as Mary Shannon. It is uncanny that they both share the same first name and now playing similar roles on screen and off screen. Mary McCormack's real life pregnancy was rumored to filter on screen. I only expected the father to be, well someone other than Mark. He's a sweet guy, but unfortunately too sweet for Mary's liking.

Mary is also not known for her subtlety, she speaks her mind and she goes all in with her well represented believes in humanity. She is a fearless woman and her strong presence on screen has made 'In Plain Sight' a huge success. What I have probably wanted more from Mary, is a relationship with Marshall. He knows her inside out and might be the only person that she could share her life with. It didn't surprise me that he knew about her pregnancy before she did. Their final scene together made me appreciate their closeness.

I hoped Marshall's new girlfriend was an attempt to get a rise out of Mary and change the odds of their relationship, but Mark came along and I just kept hoping that he was simply a distraction. Unfortunately it was just the opposite, he was quite the obvious solution to the real changes occurring off screen.

What this challenge has presented for Mary, is the ability for her to parent. Supposing she hasn't found other alternatives to counter her reality, she would learn ways to become a mother. All of these new changes could alter the perception Mary would have about families and she may instead nod her head in agreement to the everyday struggles, rather than stand from a distance and laugh at it. Mary handles relations in her work life better than her personal life. This makes her an incredibly great person, but limited to one side of her life. Separating lifestyles can only split you at both ends.

Mark's influence in Mary's past was a simple quick marriage, that ended just the same. Years later, trying to rekindle an old flame, he stumbled into another quickie with Mary, but could he handle being a father? Would Mary even let him know?

These are new arcs that could be beneficial for this series and for Mary. I personally enjoy Mary's transition throughout this series and watching her grow. As much as she is closed off, she has a huge heart, and great strength in her personality. Dealing with a pregnancy is one step, but a baby, a child, can affect you in an even bigger way.

Picture Courtesy: tvfanatic.com

Lexa

Human Target: Character Study "Guerrero"

2011-06-10T15:53:00.000-07:00

When you saw Guerrero he was always on a job. You could tell how much he loved his car, there was either somebody in his trunk or a load a guns in that persons place. Doesn't all that sound a bit dangerous?

At first he came off cheesy and typical wannabe bad-like. The random way that Chance called on him as though he had all the chops, it didn't surprise that he was supposed to be the 'off the books' type.

"Don't mess with me or you'll be sorry" It seemed all a bit too cliched for me. Which is also why I gave 'Human Target' a bit of a hard time in the early stages.

In order to truly get 'Human Target', you have to go a few more episodes in. After a decent while 'Human Target' was well spoken of, by a few colleagues and after watching an episode mid season, the flavor was in. Guerrero was really the bad egg, but it complimented this group.

-- "Just don't cross me"

He has this brotherly way about him, so it showed that he had a human side. Even while he got his hands dirty, he still had compassion. So that sets him apart from any other character on television. Still, where does this compassion come from? This was hardly revealed in the first season, as it focused solely on Christopher Chance and the mystery that surrounded him, but Guerrero had a story to tell as well.

What we gathered in Season one was that if anyone could get the job done, Guerrero was your guy. His conflicting relationship with Winston added for a laughable drama. Indeed 'Human Target' had a lot of Macho tension, showcasing only males and romantic interests at a minimal. It worked for this series later on and Guerrero had a lot to offer. The action literally jerked your attention, and one would admit Guerrero knew his stuff.

If you want a good, trusting friend Guerrero's your guy. This was revealed later on in Season 1 and embraced in Season 2. Although he handled a lot for one person, he became his own army. What made me appreciate him more was the Season 2 side of him, when he embraced his family in Chance, Winston and surprisingly Ilsa Pucci. Guerrero surprised me when it was revealed he spent his off time following his peers, to ensure their safety. That came off both creepy and humble at the same time. He always put his family first.

Writers added the extra touch by revealing he was a parent. Honestly as bad a Guerrero was, he seemed to be more loving as a father. I would have actually liked to have this explored on a deeper level.

Not everyday you would meet a character like Guerrero, someone you warm up to eventually. His bad reputation took a life of its own, from the moment his name was mentioned, people actually ran away in fear.

This character study was meant to give a full insight into who Guerrero is, and it was also meant to give the production team a thumbs up. FOX needed this one on its schedule, nothing else works without it. Jackie Earle Haley made an excellent interpretation of this character and I hope to have him on television again ...sooner rather than later.

If there is any chance for another station to pick up the series, or FOX to make an exception many fans would appreciate this. Why not? I am certain the actors and actresses would not mind. I did not grow to appreciate this character then to have it meet the axe.

Jackie Earle Haley as Guerrero
5 Stars

Picture Courtesy: humantargetonline.com

Lexa

Covert Affairs: Season Premiere 'A Hit or a Miss'?

2011-06-10T14:05:00.000-07:00

When this first aired last season, I was not completely a lover. Usually when a show sucks for me I move on pretty fast. I watch series that show growth and genuinely entertain. I was happy to give Covert Affairs a chance, because it did impress -- eventually.

After re watching Season one on DVD, which I felt was pretty short lived, I could not wait until Season Two aired. Honestly I did not like Annie and Ben Mercer in the beginning. Their 'love' was exaggerated and that could play either for or against this couple, because their chemistry had to be just as on point when they finally met post honeymoon. Besides, I was holding out for a Annie and Jai Wilcox romance.

Regardless the season still impressed in the end. Annie did not present herself as spy material when she first joined, but that fits the unrecognizable criteria they go for. She was sweet and hardly that bada%$ type you would recognize on screen. The series opened many arcs to explore:

Joan and Arthur - The conflicted in house 'agency' marriage with spy conflicts. Joan is particularly a unique character. She clearly knows what she wants and is willing to own up until she gets it. Arthur is more laid back and subtle, but he gets the job done.

Auggie - He is definitely a character fit for television screens world wide. I admire his charm and his growing relationship with Annie. He plays his character's weakness as his strength, so that shows some moral growth in character and strength through an audience.

Liza Hearn - The reporter that stirs up trouble and probably the most interesting driving plot line for this series. At least just until the others blossom to its fullest. Until then, I want to have this story line gradually surface, nothing good comes from too much information all at once.

Conflict with being an agent and balancing love with duty - This definitely came up a lot last season. At one point Annie did not know who she could trust in the agency. She had to negotiate whether Ben's words were those she could trust outside agency regulations. I specifically admired this conflict because it showed her human side and made her more likeable. Joan was also forced to balance her love for her husband with her duty to the agency. I wonder if they would always choose love.

What sets this series apart is its characters. The premiere touched on every inch of character growth, while delivering a good action segment. Annie's hysteria towards 'doing the right thing' came off too strong at times and it became a concern as to how she figured out the real villains in the story. The clues just didn't add up when she painted the picture.

Surprisingly, Ben and Annie did have a spark. Even in his weak state Ben was willing to risk it all to save her and that makes me like him a bit. I am still rooting for Annie and Jai, he is just too handsome to not have a romance arc. He had concern for Annie when it came to Ben and his 'solo act'. Could Ben actually believe in a partnership?

So even if this wasn't a big hit of a season premiere, it is still worth it. Ben working with Arthur does have it's perks as a new twist and Auggie and Annie make decent friendship pals, so give the series that. I couldn't bare the 'C' word attached to this one, I want a third season, if only to have those characters on screen a little while longer. So get cracking guys, it's actually better than you think.

Picture Courtesy: sidereel.com

Lexa

'Begin the Begin'
4 Stars

Smallville: Finale Prelude 'Clark as Superman'

2011-06-10T12:38:00.000-07:00

Finale!

I waited in hope that this finale would be debated by the producers and we could wring another season from them.

"What were we thinking guys 'Finale'"
"Yeah right, not the F word"
--- Behind the scenes debate.

In fact, I remained in denial up until Clark flashed the iconic Superman cape.

"This is not a show about Superman" -- Tom Welling

We understand that, but as fans maybe they could have stretched the 'final moments' a bit longer, or even do a 'Pre-Superman' montage? Tom Welling (TW) must have been preparing a long time to fit into those tights. After long speculation that TW was strongly opinionated about wearing them, but when you're in a series referencing the man of steel, wearing the tights seems inevitable. The moment arrived and we hardly caught a glimpse of it.

Finally we had 'future Clark' in present; the fixed glasses, the long trench coat, the slick hairstyle. It seemed as though Clark took all the hunky tips from future Clark. Was Clark supposed to look nerdy there in present - I don't think so? He couldn't look too much like a dork marrying Lois and all. I don't think it's possible now to transform Clark into his high school clumsy days. Aside - I applaud the commitment applied to the principle of Clark as Superman.

Superman - Hmm, did they even mention Superman in the Finale?

I imagined a perfect reveal to Superman since it was clearly adopted in the future by the Daily Planet. Making the premise lean towards a theatrical closing without the theatrics, and reveal Superman by the first journalist. If the goal is to not tell the story of Superman but only the journey, then not actually saying the words while leaving the audience to assume that Clark would use the title sometime sooner when the series ends, would be classic.

"It's a bird, It's a plane, no It's ..."

The most impressionable catchphrase coined in the popular Superman movies. When you think of flight, what are the first thoughts that pass through your mind? The last thing you expect would be a man, let alone a 'super' man.

Think of Five for Fighting "It's not easy to be me" -- a perfect understanding as to the man in 'superman' -- It's not easy to be me.

The responsibilities a superhero holds, it's not one to be envious of. They face the same challenges of fitting in, understanding their abilities, learning to live and to learn from mistakes and what is worse off for them, is that the higher they fly, the harder they fall. Smallville did an excellent job of creating Clark as a human. Making him easy to relate with. The battles he had to fight were far beyond challenging and it opened him up to so many wounds. Even as Clark's journey has just begun, it hurts to think that he may have far more to over come. It is an ease knowing that he has love in his heart and it guides him in the right direction. There is much we haven't seen from him, that wasn't written deliberately, but accomplished fully.

Writers spent years teasing viewers with 'The Red Blue Blur' into just 'The Blur' since he was no longer red or blue, why not tease with a super reference? We all laughed around the names they developed, but at one point I feared they were going far past the Superman trademark to make Smallville unique, that they crossed all traditional Superman analogies. Smallville in itself is a unique series. Through adopting Chloe that has made it to the comics in a phenomenal way, but we were also introduced to Lois very early in Clark's life, which conflicted with everything Superman. I didn't care though, Erica Durance has proven to be as an effective character, warming her way in our hearts and growing into a beautiful persona. It wouldn't hurt to think of this as an alternate universe to Clark as Superman and in another world Clark's first day in the Daily Planet was his first time in Metropolis as well, and his first time meeting Lois Lane.

Series Finale Semi/Talk

This finale 2 hour special felt rushed. When you break it all down, it is as though they tried a tie all the knots, dot all the I's and cross all the T's, sort of play. CLois grew stronger clearly from the beginning of the season. Mostly initiated from Season 9 into Season 10, they shared a glow on screen. Their relationship was stronger and it was clear that Lois helped mold the finer part of Superman, but pushed Clark into clumsy mode splitting both man and man of steel. It leaves you wondering how Superman from past series and movies became the man of steel.

Remember 'Lois and Clark The New Adventures of Superman' -- Lois and Clark met in the Daily Planet. Definitely attending Smallville High changed the course of time. It would have been nice to have an episode that mirrored that lifestyle.

So we sit back, stand, dance and cry as bloggers, writers, critics and fans, to write, comment and express how we admire the closure of Smallvile or disapprove of the end. It all gives us something to share and talk about. What is the next step for Allison Mack, Erica Durance, Tom Welling and Justin Hartley? Not to mention Michael Rosenbaum, John Glover, Annette O'Toole, John Schneider and Cassidy Freeman. Where do we expect to see them next?

I know Tom Welling gave directing a shot through "Hellcats", which is now canceled. Michael Rosenbaum was recently on the now canceled "Breaking In". I am not so sure about the rest of the cast, but I do remember a guest star appearance from Annette O'Toole on Private Practice. I just don't want Smallville to be the only place we have such talented actors and actresses in one place. Sam goes for my other favorite series that were also canceled. We want to see you guys acting again!

Lexa

Private Practice: Season 4, Episode 17 "A Step Too Far" Review

2011-05-25T09:33:00.000-07:00

When it comes to commitments, many are at odds for several reasons. We try to tell ourselves that we are in a particular situation, because we give in to that selfish desire. It's human and Addison has embarked on that journey for a long time, but here she showed how mature she was and admitted it to herself. "A Step Too Far" definitely embarked on the journey of going a bit too far on the selfish.

A husband who turns an affair into a righteous act of love, manages to tear two sisters' relationship apart. Cooper suggesting to Sheldon that he could lose Violet if he forged a relationship with one critic opposing Violet, boldly telling Sheldon that he should not be happy because of Violet. Then we have Sam who once protested to Addison that they should be together, that he loved her and he wanted to be with her, and when they finally are together he goes a step too far and gives into temptation, limiting Addison to just that. If he truly loved her, he would want her happiness and he would not be so cold, but we know what it means to go a step too far to get the 'wants' and the 'needs', sometimes not even for the benefit of others.

Private Practice has been my favorite series since season 1, mainly because of how much Addison's conflicted character and human flaws made her out to be interesting. Lately Addison has annoyed me, based on the decisions she has made before. I was not for an AddiSam relationship, but this episode brought Addison back into perspective for me. She showed her flaws and she owned up to it. She is loving and she wants to have love. Which made me question why she stood with Sam after his kiss with Naomi. Saying nothing happened is not enough, because it points out that something did happen emotionally. Sam isn't perfect, but he is as flawed as anyone else and is still finding out what his values mean to him. Addison wants a child and he cannot just tell her that he has a family already and make that be enough. He cannot tell Addison to wait. Addison is a passionate person and she needs to have someone in her life that brings that out in her.

I believe this was a comeback for Private Practice, because lately they have resorted to fillers that make up the series. As much as Addison's mother brought perspective into her life, everything surrounding that storyline was held up by a string. So this episode had exceptional writing and beautiful acting. I enjoyed the two cases, they underlined conflict with self and morals. The case with the pregnant sister and her affair with the husband crossed many unethical boundaries that could not be simplified within this hour. The husband's actions felt like a slap in the face, he gave into his selfish desires and estranged sisters because of it. Had the circumstances ended with the sister taking that child away and leaving with the husband, I would have been enraged beyond words. I was happy that they came to an agreement and did not make the child suffer through the case of adulthood mystery that lead to unnecessary fights. I was disappointed in the husband, even as he was upset with his wife through their arguments, his actions were cruel and he was willing to take away the one thing his wife wanted. Any man willing to hurt someone like that should be looked over thoroughly. Even with love that self indulgence should turn away anyone. The wife came out victorious in the end still opening the door for her sister to be an aunt.

The second case with Cooper was heart warming; the boy with the dilemma of choosing between a scholarship and his life. Cooper was pushed on taking risks and choosing that the end should justify the means. At one point I thought Cooper would have overreacted and the boy's risks would have been taken as an eye opener for Cooper. Instead, Cooper's concern panned out and the boy was left in a coma state after disregarding Cooper. Then to top it off, he did not even have to wrestle at all, because he had his scholarship already. What a sad story, had he listened to Cooper, her would have been celebrating anyway. Sometimes we often wonder whether these risks would be worthwhile, and if we leap a hard fall would follow, or would we simply land on our feet?

Violet's book has been coming and the picture taken by Pete was the defining moment of all chapters. This storyline seemed somewhat isolated. I am happy for Violet, the fact that she could turn all her challenges into a book that helps others is inspiring for anyone. She has often sought help from her colleagues through her decision making and the claims from the critic was probably on point, but harsh. Knowing the critic's meaning of her words brought clarity, and Violet has done some crazy stunts, but it makes her as complicated as anyone else around her, she's not perfect either.

Oh and Sheldon, you could date whoever you want, Violet would get over it. Oh and Cooper well, it's interesting to have you comparing yourself with others achievements. It was good to have Charlotte by his side. Since Audra McDonald is leaving Private Practice this season, her absence this hour was not unexpected, but her appearances should point more towards her exit. That would put a dent in a Naomi and Sam reconnection. We've have hardly seen Maya since she gave birth, I wonder if those storyline would come into play. How would Naomi leave her granddaughter behind. Last tie she mentioned helping others in a different way, maybe she might do that solo. The writers might try to keep a window open in case Audra McDonald decides to make some guest appearances, if in case that is possible for her. She would be missed.

A Step too Far
3.5 Stars - That one B Plot really annoyed me

Lexa

Castle Season Finale: Was it a "Knockout"?

2011-05-24T11:24:00.000-07:00

The court scene was an epic twist

The series definitely gave some unexpected twists. It was reported that someone would be killed off at the end of this season and my first thought was Captain Roy Montgomery since we hardly saw his character anyway. We usually saw Montgomery behind the scenes and rarely did he ever get his own centered episode.When the moment arrived for him to have his last dance, it had an impact. I sensed the writers tried to add a few layers on to him at the last moment.

We had him asking around for the best anniversary present, showing more screen time with him, his wife and children. All of those are definitely bad signs, because just as we are warming up to him, his character could be plucked away leaving a dent behind.

How many of you felt Beckett overreacted a bit when she realized Montgomery was willing to sacrifice his life for hers. I actually didn't, even if it was dramatized, I believe Beckett loved him and would rather her life be taken, instead of having an incredible guilt for his kind actions. When the episode broke into Kate's past zone, I knew everything would unravel from there. What shocked me was Montgomery's involvement, but I was happy the writers chose to give him a heroic exit, instead of making him a villain. He was young, naive and he wanted to do better by Kate. It worked fine and it made me actually miss him deeply after his courageous act.

My favorite scene would be the montage between Beckett and Castle, alongside Montgomery's murder. Beckett's reaction was priceless and Castle's comforting showed character. Castle had to lift a broken Beckett up to get her out of the room, he then had to comfort her, while trying to be subtle and sweet. That was an intimate scene between them. Another scene preference came more at the end of the finale, but first I must mention how cute it was to have Castle and Becket argue with each other.

Argument Excerpt

Castle: Walk away, they are going to kill you Kate. If you don't care about that at least think about that is going to affect the people that love you. You really want to put your dad through that? What about Josh?

Beckett: ...and what about you Rick?

Castle: Well of course I don't want anything to happen to you, I'm your partner! I'm your friend!

Beckett: Is that what we are.

Castle: All right you know what I don't know what we are. We kissed and then we never talk about it. We nearly die frozen in each others arms, but we never talk about it so no I've got no clue what we are. I know I don't want to see you throw your life away!

Beckett: Yeah well last time I checked it was my life not your personal jungle gym, and for the past three years I have been running around with the school's funniest kid and it's not enough!

Castle: You know this isn't about your mother's case anymore, this is about you trying to hide, because you've been chasing this thing for so long you are afraid to find out who you are without it.

Beckett: You don't know me Castle! You think you do, but you don't!

Castle: I know you crawled inside your mother's murder and didn't come out. I know you hide there, same way you hide in these no where relationships with men you don't love. You could be happy Kate, you deserve to be happy (Just say the rest Castle, You deserve to be happy with me!), but you're afraid.

Beckett: You know what we are Castle we are over now get out! (Ouch)

The entire time Castle was telling Beckett that he loved her, without saying the exact words. I appreciate writing like that, acting done so well like that. Castle and Beckett have been an ongoing theme for a while and I was happy Castle was picked up for a second season, then a third and now we are having a fourth. It is shows like this that make you happy to know that they can possibly be around for a long time. Castle and Beckett are good friends and that doesn't come around often. To point out the piece that Castle mentioned; they did kiss and it wasn't discussed after that. I enjoyed having Kate call Castle, Rick. We all know that is his first name, but if you look at that scene closely, it made things more intimate and personal between them.

I enjoyed having Martha counsel Castle after his argument. She knows how Castle feels about Beckett and her wisdom as a mother to her son shows. It is good to know Castle has two rational people in his life. Even if Alexis is going away, she would still stay close to her father.

Beckett was just acting out of rage and when she wanted Castle out of the station, Montgomery said okay. Beckett's expression to his response was comical, it was obvious she had just gotten into a fight, but her rational side made her realize that Castle was right and she had to be careful.

"I forgive you" I thought it was big of Becket to forgive Montgomery. She saw him as a father and saw his selfless act. It made him human for his past mistakes. I actually knew he wasn't going to trick Beckett, I would be surprised if he did. He practically told his wife he loved her before she left and embraced his children. Showing signs of affection at the final minutes of a series is not good, he knew what he was going to do. I felt for his wife at the funeral. Beckett got one step closer to lose another person close to her.

On to the final scene, Beckett got shot? She couldn't be dead, that would be critical for this series. Castle finally telling Beckett the obvious, that he loved her, I only hoped that they wouldn't use the 'You thought she was dying right' cliche, to get out of it. I hope Castle repeats himself, and stop being so afraid.

Memorable Selections

Beckett in a cop uniform - she actually looked like a real life cop.

Martha's Advice to Castle
For Someone who is better than halfway through the movie, don't waste another minute of it!

Special Mention goes to Ruben Santiago-Hudson as Roy Montgomery.

Castle "Knockout" Season 3, Episode 24
5 Stars

Castle Season 3
4.5 Stars

Hellcats: Just as surprised by cancellation

2011-05-24T07:17:00.000-07:00

Last week's series finale of Hellcats didn't go out with a big BANG. Instead it went out with a big HUH(?), leaving viewers flabbergasted by so many unresolved story lines left dangling in mid air. Hellcats was one of the recent pitfall subjected to the canceled series 'vibe' going on. It was sudden and it seemed as though Hellcats was just as surprised as its viewers.

Not only was Hellcats thrown out of the competition altogether, Vanessa was thrown out of her position as coach, definitely in that order. Red's ex-wife has been stirring up trouble for Vanessa the minute she arrived. There ain't nothing like a woman scorned according to Lady Antebellum (seems like an appropriate quote right?), because it seems like Emily was crushed by Vanessa and Red's affair. She set out deliberately to hurt Vanessa the minute she arrived.

How devastating it would be to see your ex, after having an affair, still happy with the woman he cheated with? Emily could tell the story and as much as she appears unlikeable, it's understandable where the rage comes from. Vanessa and Red show no remorse or guilt. Sometimes through hurt, the worst sides overcome characters. We have only known Emily through her hate for Vanessa, but it is all wasted energy. Emily appears to still be single, which meant she spent years focusing on one thing, that she couldn't move past and that could be depressing.

Writers waited too long to reveal Emily to viewers and that could be a major setback for this series. They also waited to long to bring Marti's sister into the picture. They just pushed what seemed to be the most thrilling story lines at the end and dragged out the relentless ones like the Marti-Dan-Savannah triangle. Alice and her craziness with Jake, all could have been cut short. So now I am left wondering had they done that, would things be different?

As much as Marti and Julian was unexpected and interesting for most, he still came of as Marti's professor. Their relationship should have been explored much deeper before they became so intimate. Their romantic scenes were well covered and acted through, but their was still this detachment in character chemistry. I wanted a little more conversation. Although most characters are well in their twenties and going to college, the show still came off like high-school drama without the classes and the bells and well you know that stuff.

There were also other dangling themes:
The Nasty Kathy
Savannah's pregnant sister - Savannah's ex 'the baby-daddy'
Savannah's father on the run
Dan not best best friends with Marti anymore
Alice and her father
Alice-Lewis-Marti-Lewis-NastyKathy-Lewis-Alice-Lewis (maybe we could have had a Savannah-Lewis(?))

As much as I appreciate these arcs, they could have been dealt with on a more subtle way. Savannah's sister definitely began to annoy me after a while. As for Savannah's choice to stay out of the competition, very noble, but it came off very naive of a captain to abandon her team. They could have at least had Charlotte attempt to convince her to support her team, to make it more realistic that Savannah's absence was for loving her sister and not some scandal to keep the Hellcats out of the competition for convenience and ratings.

Oh yeah Marti's father revelation could add for a great cliffhanger, but it was poorly handled. We barely got to know Marti's sister, so when she acted irrational towards Marti's affections, I couldn't tell if it was because she didn't have enough trust in her life, or if she was just trying to be annoying. Clearly Marti loved her, because she was the only other family she knew. She deceived Marti by leading her on to the idea their father was possibly dead, when she knew for a fact that he was alive. So instead of running out and saying 'you promised', how about an 'I can explain'. Cliched, but she could connected the pieces, who else calls her phone? Her father obviously regularly enough for her to be more careful if she was keeping a secret from Marti. What was her game anyway?

I am just disappointed that all of that was just left there, incomplete. Like an exam you are taking, you just walk out knowing fully well things would fail and this series failed to deliver in the end. It actually had high hopes and I like the fact that Tom Welling was the producer, way to have an idea of Smallville still on air, even though the shows aren't related. So goodbye Hellcats, it was sudden, short and sweet(?) who knows what it could have been.

Series Finale Rating:
2 Stars

Lexa

Private Practice: Season 4, Episode 22 "To Change the Things I Can" Finale - Good Bye Naomi

2011-05-22T12:40:00.000-07:00

This means good bye to Audra McDonald who spent four years having us get to know Naomi. McDonald has taken this opportunity to spend more time with her family in New York, departing from her 'series regular' role. Although there may be a chance for use to see her again in season five, I doubt she would get much of a storyline. The real question remains, would this departure hurt the series?

I don't think it would, Addison has been the drive for this series' existence. Even though each character has grown over the past four years, Naomi's relative absence from the series this season didn't leave much of a dent. Her absence alone would however be missed. She became part of the reason Addison came over to the practice and now she's not even going to be around.

I was upset with Naomi mostly for the latter part of this season. Her spontaneous trip away from the practice, then she came back all judgy about her 'practice' family. She was once a part of their decision making and grew up with them, formed bonds with them. She angered me when she returned in 'What we have here' with hostility to Addison and Sam's relationship. 'Addison's Testimony' can shed some light on how Addison could react to that situation.

Coming down to the end, it felt like the writers were pushing story-lines her way. Fife following Naomi around until she agreed to travel with him and Naomi taking Betsey under her wing; as much as these both sound sweet, it felt rushed and unsettling. Betsey's storyline particularly felt like an easy way to get Betsey the home she needed and off the show fast.

Given the change in events had McDonald stayed on another season, they might have handled the Fife story better. They might have even removed the desperation attached to him and have him do something while he stayed to swoop Naomi away. I liked Fife as a 'mean a#^' and now he is just too soft and unlikeable as he was before. *Hmm* I liked him better when he was meaner, that's something.

For the rest of this episode Addison's new 'way of living' felt like she was in a crisis. I was happy that she and Naomi mended fences, so I was hoping Naomi would be the voice of reason. Unfortunately Addison had to deal with 'supermarket guy' alone. I call him 'supermarket guy' because I don't think we got his name. The guy gave Addison the option to travel with him and have 'hot sex'. I wondered how many times Addison met with this guy with no name, for a vacation like that to be an option. 'Supermarket guy' also looked a little creepy, don't let his apparently sexy voice fool you Addie, that's probably all that could be good about him.

What got me really upset was Addison and Sam taking one for the night. Sam admitted that he missed Addison and next she is seen in bed with him, has the 'wanting a baby' situation changed? They would only fight again if the situation is not resolved. I just figure they both do not want to be alone anymore and decided to shack-up. I don't blame them for wanting something together without knowing what could be apart, but Sam hurt Addie and right now I don't like him that much.

Another couple that is shaky right now is Violet and Pete. Pete just cannot accept any form of compromise, forcing himself to believe an ultimatum would work instead. Pete works himself up too much and is stubborn about it. Violet can be selfish and strongly motivated by her convictions and so could Pete, and there is where they clash as a couple. They are both controlling, but they could hardly control each other. It was heart wrenching watching Pete plummet to the floor in agony from what seemed like a heart attack. Pete has too much stress in his life, what was even worse was that poor Lucas saw the whole thing and couldn't do anything about it.

Everyone is having their own crisis, so who would think to make a stop by Pete just to check on him and get him to the hospital in time? My guess, Violet changes her mind and returns home in time. That might be a plot changer. Way to leave season 4, with poor Lucas traumatized. I didn't like one bit of it.

'To Change the Things I Can', is an interesting piece of advice to leave the season with. You can only change the things you are capable of changing. People try to over-exceed their limits and end up stressing themselves out. What's the use of wearing yourself down to complete a task when you could rest and live to do it another day? Charlotte had to face a past trauma, and she did it the best way she knew she could. Amelia is dealing with her drinking and she is crying out for help. Charlotte and Amelia have a close friendship and maybe she could help her, but the rest is up to Amelia.

So what can we expect next season? Who else didn't believe the words coming out Sam's mouth when he flat out told Naomi to leave and be with Fife? I expected Addison to say that, but Sam seems appropriate for the only one Naomi would listen to. Your ex-husband is telling you to run off with someone, maybe there is plausibility in that relationship right? I don't know. I am just happy that Audra McDonald would be spending more time with her family, the leave seems more worthwhile. I mean we all want her to be happy, but she will be missed as a regular cast.

Here's for a promising Season 5.

Lexa

Picture Courtesy: tvfanatic.com

To Change the Things I Can
4 Stars

Private Practice Season 4
4 Stars

Desperate Houswives: Lynette and Tom Seperated?

2011-05-20T16:07:00.000-07:00

Stop fighting already!

I admired this couple for what seemed like an inseparable marriage. Didn't it give you guys hope that in the long run things could actually work out? That's the problem with using television couples as role models to your relationship, if the writers say 'divorce' chances are Lynette and Tom would not survive the pitfall. It was clear the writers set them up for a pitfall since the beginning of the season. It became most apparent when they began arguing for the little things. This could be a real life factor, one minute things are close to perfect, then there is the fallout and you wonder 'how did things get so horrible'.

What I understood from Lynette's perspective, she's gotten used to having her husband around, holding him tight. The moment he got this job it was a trap, Lynette no longer had control over him. In their world it leaves you thinking whether their problem was there all along and we just did not see it. Lynette seemed worried when Tom preferred work over everything else. Money began flowing and Lynette became the prize wife. What set things off further was when Lynette was invited to a function with Tom, she got the visitor's ID. Close to nobody just visiting for a day. Lynette winded up embarrassing herself and Tom after stealing a VIP pass for a lady who had to give the main speech. 'Big Ouch!' I felt bad for Lynette.

She pushed Tom to defy Carlos, for the 'better opportunity' and she ended up being screwed. It sucked the way things degenerated. Each week became more painful to watch on Desperate Housewives, just because Tom and Lynette refused to really communicate with each other. Instead of arguing over remodeling Tom's office and the way Tom 'should have it', Lynette should have sat him down and admit that she was afraid of him changing. She has clinged to this reality of her life that is no longer there and as Tom changes she is unable to keep up. That explains everything they are going through. So many arguments could be avoided if she just chose to tell him why she was upset instead of yelling and Tom should stop being arrogant for one second to realize that shouting back would not have helped the situation.

When Tom admitted to sleeping with Renee during his 'break' with Lynette earlier this season, I thought of the Ross and Rachel situation on Friends. Ross' justification 'We were on a break'. The mere fact that his solution to a problem was having a meaningless fling without actually facing the problem head on, showed their maturity level. That judgement reflects that if their is a problem later down the road, you wouldn't choose to sleep with the random stranger, instead you would learn how to deal with the issues head on. This isn't a shrink session, but honestly Tom lost any appeal when he stood up for what he did and used his children to guilt Lynette into staying with him. I was more upset with Lynette for giving in.

I sensed something a bit off in their relationship then as to how strong it was. They just let simple, petty things destroy their relationship, now their baby is going to have to endure living with separated parents. How is that going to work out anyway? I am disappointed in them both. They have so much to be thankful for and they are using each other as weapons. Wake up Lynette and Tom! Both of you are looking for a reason to stay into a relationship, guilting a poor couple into spending their time instead of facing your dilemmas. It's not a puzzle, it's probably more simple, just find the love you already have in your hearts, so those that do look at you for support might have that hope.

Lexa

The Good Wife: Character Study "Alicia"

2011-05-19T17:35:00.000-07:00

Alicia's orientation with the ideals of her husband are flawed. Peter himself is a man of deception. He is the master of politics, after all he was tainted by his convictions, but reappointed anyway. Alica had a big part to play in his rise, which is ironic since he is the one responsible for the obstruction in her lifestyle.

Housewife?- Could you imagine what Alicia did before she became this powerful? She has risen above her husbands success and shenanigans. The first hint of Alicia's strength was seen in her interview before Peter was elected. Alicia was asked if she was going to run and it wasn't that funny a mention by the reporter. It would be no surprise if Alicia ran and won. I imagine Eli by her side routing for her, possibly even turning against Peter. Her relationship with Eli has grown into a deep friendship, established out of respect. Not even Peter has that.

Alicia carries this admirable love for her children. She's not getting into politics because of them. The way the game of politics is played, both Zack and Grace's name would be dragged into the mud. People play dirty, she doesn't want her children subject to that again.

Alicia and the Guys
Peter doesn't love Alicia.
He only became attracted to her when she came out of the shadow of the household and into the work world, and even that remained a physical attraction. I don't think Peter cares much that Alicia kicked him out, but that she bruised his ego. He set out to hurt Alicia before, when she seemed invaluable. All the pieces fit together. There was always a smirk on his face, even when he was in prison, but now things are really falling apart for him. He doesn't like lack of control.

In "Closing Argument" Peter was willing to set Will up, he sent the package directly to Will's office hoping to get a face to face meeting. Peter blames Will for his marital problems, because he doesn't want to take blame or admit that things are crumbling in his life. Alicia and Kalinda were friends and in Peter's mind, Alicia is at fault because his 'fling' with Kalinda was in the past. The way Peter sees it, Will is to blame even if he wasn't in Alicia's life at the time.

Alica on the other hand put everything Peter did closed up. Everything was supposedly alright and nothing pushed her to deal with it. Soon enough work was going well and what was past remained past, but that was until her past caught up to her work. It more seems like Alicia is reacting to a few stabs in her back that now revealed itself. Alicia always had feelings for Will, but she told herself that maybe with her job and her children, she could be happy without any drama or risky chances. I was happy to have Alicia finally call it quits and realize there was nothing good. Peter is not good for her . Although Will comes and goes for me when dealing with Alicia, the final scene between them in "Closing Arguments" was a decent end to the series. This is a huge leap for Alicia. I do not agree with her having her one-nighter with Will while married. I have a feeling Peter would do all he could to defer Alicia from happiness. Not to mention the press that could paint her entire relationship from a biased angle, making her look like the bad seed.

Alicia and Friendship
Alicia doesn't trust many many people, so she has a handful of friend in her life. The awkward tension between her and Kalinda was uncomfortable and funny to watch. I hope this does not deteriorate their friendship completely. Although Alicia takes things very personally, Kalinda is more of a free thinker. Kalinda is relatively detached from everything in her life. What ever happened to Kalinda's husband reference, they didn't mention anything of it after Blake left?

Alicia is cold when she upset, and the slightest things roll over her, so when she is upset, it is definitely a deep scar. She doesn't let anyone get under her skin. What about the coldness in her eyes when she told Kalinda to 'buzz off'. She doesn't like being made a fool of. She even 'handles' Peter's mom now, when before she used to possibly ignore her. Now Peter's mother sees no wrong in her son, she should at least admit his faults. I don't know if that makes her loving or just naive. I even thought she and Alica were becoming friends once, I guess that's history now.

Character Appeal
I admire Alicia's growth in 'The Good Wife'. Some do not think Alicia would really leave Peter because only then the show would be called 'The Good Ex-Wife'. Peter is bad for Alicia, I am only glad the show is being practical by even having Alicia consider a divorce or having an ounce of happiness. It doesn't mean that Alicia cannot be remarried or still remain 'The Good Wife' for what she was. Alicia is intelligent, so she deserves the chance to visit the best options to cure her beyond happy lifestyle.

The writing on 'The Good Wife' is brilliant. The series can begin in the middle of a scene and still embrace continuity, while giving you enough information to go on. Regularly that show has adopted a style of editing I admire and don't even start with the acting team. For Julianna Margulies (Alicia) and Josh Charles (Will), it's interesting for Josh working with Margulies who is older, but they compliment each other on screen. I have always appreciated this series for its opening sequence, beautiful graphics to depict the ideal good wife. I hope for the best of next season.

Lexa

"Closing Argument"
4.5 Stars

"The Good Wife" Season 2
5 Stars for Consistency (Not many series can pull this off)

Chase: Why no second season?

2011-05-15T15:47:00.000-07:00

Chase: Could have been Great

Chase started off with strong characters worth breaking their necks to send the necessary behind bars. The show pulled in villain guest appearances like Travis Fimmel, Robert Knepper, Robert LaSardo, Yancey Arias and Jennifer Morrison to name a few. The series rested on adrenaline boosts that rage fan scores. What put the dent in the flow of the series, was the scheduling misplacement. Chase took what seemed like a long vacation from NBC and reemerged recently to air on Saturdays, this definitely didn't look good. What I feared the most was that Chase would lose its appeal and decline further in ratings due to this unsettling placement.

Kelli Giddish (Annie Frost) took up a recent role in "The Good Wife". The actress has to move on, especially since a cancellation was recently announced. This was not easy news for me to take on. Chase took its name literally and gave fans a guaranteed trill of a catch. When the season returned on Saturdays, it took a hard bump. It was not as strong as it used to be, but character chemistry was still there and I had hope.

This would have been Amaury Nolasco's comeback from "Prison Break" and his stay was short lived as well. The only character I found did not fit in as well as the others, was Jesse Metcalfe as Luke Watson. He always had this 'us and them' attitude about him. It was hard to take his character seriously for me especially since I remember him from his role in "Desperate Housewives". He took on more comedy-soap opera appearances and there weren't enough layers added to make him more appealing to the Marshall world. If it was took on, they took to it too late. Daisy was used to pull him in, only their chemistry was not profound.

The changes in the series seemed most apparent after the switch to Saturdays. Before the series scored highly with episodes "Narco: Part 1" and "Narco: Part 2". These episodes placed Annie in a tight spot and created an adrenaline aside from the catches they were used to. Was it enough? Sometime after the show took a break. I wondered what was going on that the network had to push Chase into a hiatus. The storyline focused on a partial reveal to Annie's past with her father, but didn't delve too much into that front. I was routing for her and Jimmy, but they even kept pushing this perfect life between him and his girlfriend, so I felt lost in the direction for an AnJi shipper.

"Breakout Kings" is a new series which came out on A&E, and it recommends similar thrills of 'the catch'. Although they bare similarities through borrowing of guest stars and going to jail analogies, Breakout Kings has a better chance of succeeding Chase.

Why no second season? Besides all the flaws in the series, I still wanted another season. It had action, decent character chemistry and I like Annie Frost. I only hoped others felt the same way.

Lexa

Castle "To Love and Die in L.A" Review - Caskett just kiss already!

2011-05-15T10:52:00.000-07:00

The actual set for 'Heat Wave' so realistic.

The tension between Beckett and Castle is growing. This was especially established in "Countdown" when death was close in proximity. Their love story hasn't even begun, yet they are hopeless romantics. They ache for that chance to be close, and Castle obviously wants to kiss her. So what's holding them both back? They find time to bond over cases. The irony; the most traumatic the case, the closer they become. I don't know what the writers are waiting on!

Royce's letter to Kate:
Now for the hard part kid... It's clear that you and Castle have something real and you're fighting it, but trust me putting the job ahead of your heart is a mistake. Risking our hearts is why we're alive. The last thing you'd want is to look back on your life and wonder if only.

Royce truly knew Beckett by saying those words. It gave a clear depiction of the person Beckett is. There is a clear connection between her and Castle, but she's not making anything of it. Castle is partially to blame for that, when either party is ready to attempt a relationship bump, the other is occupied. Now they are both in that zone where they realize how they feel and nothing is surfacing. Everything is just hushed like grumbles in their throats. It's all in the fear of taking the leap. The choice of risking everything for a chance at something different.

This was Dominic's Purcell semi-comeback after "Prison Break". I tweeted Stana Katic on his Terminator like appearance after she called him a "gentle giant". Who else pictured Arnold Schwarzenegger's "I'll be back" one liner, when Dominic's character (Ganz) first came on screen, pistol in hand. Almost built like an actual machine. Ganz was nothing like Lincoln Burrows; he was cold and stiff, but he was still a good looker. Even though Purcell was a guest star, he was hardly screened. The center was mainly on Beckett and her seeking revenge. When faced with Ganz there was no doubt, Beckett was going to pull that triger. She had to avenge Royce's murder.

Beckett loved Royce deeply. He hurt her and yet she was still willing to kill for him. The moment Beckett revealed to Castle the impact Royce had on her life, it was a comfortable moment. She trusts Castle and it is clearer now that Castle loves and respects her. Beckett was at ease talking to her best friend. I wonder how her conversations are with her actual boyfriend, he must see how much Castle means to her.

I enjoyed Caskett in LA. Since they visited the set of 'Heat Wave', I expected to see Natalie Rhodes from 'Nikki Heat'. It would have been so perfect had she made an appearance, but again the focus was on Beckett. I admire the transition this series has taken, relating to real life situations. The connotation are as close to the actual picture; of course after the book emerges the movie. It's good that they gave us some progress on that picture.

Castle was flashier in LA. It was where he could shine the most. He had to calm Beckett down in defense, in fact he was actually 'fitting in' to the LA lifestyle. It was nice to have these two enjoy themselves. The staged interrogation room was classic hilarious. I could just imagine the directors saying after Beckett and Castle were finished questioning the witness:

-Yeah hurry up and close the set, that's supposed to be the dressing room.

Key Extras:
Lanie & Esposito need a little more screen time, instead of sneaking a few smooches in. They did look so good together.

Beckett has a good heart, those she loves are greatly cared for.

No Alexis and Castle? I heard the actress was leaving the show, although she gains little screen time, I would miss her. She is already a big part of Castle's life.

Lexa

______________________

Four and a Half Stars

Grade A-
______________________

Cancellation Buzz Kill: Fox on a Cancelling Spree

2011-05-15T07:02:00.000-07:00

All showed great potential.

The shock was announced the day Fox issued the massacre of shows like 'Human Target', 'Breaking In' and 'The Chicago Code'. Series in its early season got the axe; "The Chicago Code" and "Breaking In", some of which could have risen to higher success. I denounce actions like this; 'cancelled' *cringe*, the action alone could send a fan crazy.

Since the recent end to Smallville, most series have been pulled likewise. This is strange, since the series I wouldn't mind living without those that still reside on air, taunting the good ones now gone *eeehmmm* 'Gossip Girl' *eeeehmmm*.

I was routing for "Human Target". I would wait in hope of some glimpse of recognition that this series was really good. I didn't like the series initially, but each week brought an entertaining episode showing plausible continuity.

5 Reasons Why Human Target should ~~have been~~ be Renewed

5) Action, Action and more Action: The excitement doesn't fail. Week after week you have your sweaty guys beating each other up, which should be enough for the ladies. Then we have cleverly articulated stunts, not the average punches, but there is in-depth background from each character perspective.

4) The soundtrack is impeccable. Action sequences are well represented.

3) Christopher Chance. Is that even his real name, the mystery was one I wanted to discover. There was always this sense of familiarity in each plot. Most often it was even nice having Christopher Chance on screen, his eyes would hypnotize a damsel and his fists would kill a wolf in her path. Almost hero like.

2) Guerrero... who doesn't like Guerrero? I didn't initially, I was still trying to figure him out. Then Season 2 gave us an episode dedicated to him, and you should check it out, it was one of the best episodes that season.

1) It keeps getting better. The chances are the network could have found ways to work with the series a bit longer. They might have cut it before it got its real chance to shine.

It is difficult for me to deal with the loss of a favorite series, and they seem to be piling up. First "Dark Blue" got the axe, just as I was getting into the drama of it all. It seemed as if the feminine aspect drove both series to its fall. Human Target was criticized for its introduction of Ilsa Pucci, Chance's love interest. The testosterone in Season 1 seemed like too much initially, but it warmed up to me. Who doesn't like having a bunch of guys on screen with clever manipulative skills. Isla softened the tone of the series, and while it may not have been Season 1 quality, it worked. I was looking forward to a kiss between Chance and Ilsa as a real couple.

I have it difficult accepting the range of good shows that leave television, compared with the horrid ones that remain. I guess this may be in my opinion, there are many fans that support the ones on screen, so why should shows like Human Target get the victory dance. Terminator The Sarah Connor Chronicles didn't even stand a chance.

Shows that got the official axe on Fox:

Breaking In - Really it just started
The Good Guys - I kind of stopped watching this one, seemed typical.
Lie to Me - Just getting into it, the scheduling was way off.
Running Wilde - Couldn't stand the first episode.
Traffic Light - It just started and I don't know, a possible maybe.

Lexa

The Office: Dwight K. Schrute, (Acting) Manager...Or Not

2011-05-14T20:29:00.000-07:00

- Did Dwight do a good job of filling Micheal's shoes?

The Office is scampering to find a decent replacement for Michael and it shows. Deangelo's visit to "The Office" was short-lived; gone just as fast as he came. He wasn't trying to fill Michael's shoes, but to act as the best manager he could be in Michael's absence.

It was somewhat saddening to have Steve Carell's name ripped from the opening title sequence. I found myself trying to recall the scenes they had of him before. The simple things we let slip our minds matters most when it is missed, and Steve Carell was missed. Even if "Dwight K. Schrute, (Acting) Manager" was a decent episode that granted a few laughs, I am not sure whether this series would last without Michael.

There is an obvious struggle to find a suitable 'king of the office', so maybe the writers should focus on other things rather than 'replacement'. There are other ways to pull an audience in, without reminding us of an absence, because right now the series is in that stage of absence. There is this shaky feel to the overall picture.

This was Dwight's point to shine, and although there was a slight difference in his shine to Acting Manager, he failed to disappoint. Switching the Snack Machine with Dwight products, having the workers clock in and the 21 digit code, those were all hilarious and the exact impression of Dwight as a manger. I expected Jim to take lead, but he surely regretted it more when Dwight became runner up. I only imagined the torture Jim had to endure, testing his patience to listen to Dwight's in character moments. He even got to tease him like old times.

Is it just me, or is Gabe reallllllly annoying. I don't know if to laugh or smack him sometimes. Snap out of it, do you really want to be with someone that cringes at the thought of you! Erin was practically quirky as usually, I actually felt bad for her.

I would definitely like to see how Creed handles this new position. I definitely would not have thought him, but it gives Creed a chance to be in the spotlight. While "The Office" finds its niche again, I would stay tuned. The characters were what made the show and they still carry a half hour well. My favorite scene would be Angela helping Kevin with his copier code, he was like a child playing with a cool toy.

Lexa

________________________

Three and a Half Stars

Grade C+
________________________

Smallville: Curtains Close; Let us Applaud the Final Act

2011-05-13T19:24:00.000-07:00

The Journey has just begun

So we've met the closing, the series finale, the end of Smallville or any hope of new episodes. Why look at it like that though, we have so many memories to share. Just because the directors say cut, doesn't mean fans should close up shop. We have our fan fictions and creativity to keep Smallville growing strong. So really It's the series finale, but it's not over.

Reviews would be posted later on. I want to take the time to gather a few memorable clips and quotes from each episode. No spoilers yet! Let us just share in the memory of what we've seen for a short ten years which flew by so quickly. This season flew by quickly. I want to take some time to rehash some of my favorite scenes and share it with you guys, and I hope you would do they same.

Lexa

Parks and Recreation: Leslie and Ben

2011-05-13T19:05:00.000-07:00

Leslie: I'm allergic to fingers.

This is definitely the first I have heard of this allergy. Ben sweetly asked Leslie to make a wish on the eyelash he took from her cheek and Leslie had an immediate reaction. I applaud Amy Poehler (Leslie) for the delivery of that moment. Simply hilarious.

I have been a fan of Parks and Recreation since the first Season, but nothing keeps me as glued to the television screen like the scenes between Leslie and Ben. All week I've waiting for some advancement in their relationship, be it a conversation or just a simple smile. Adam Scott (Ben) knows how to move a scene with his expressions. They leave you either cracking up or in tears of laughter.

The moment he entered last season, I didn't like him at first, he seemed as though he was stirring up trouble. Getting to know him, I understood that he was learning Pawnee and he warmed his way in. I've seen Scott somewhere before, earlier on television. I only realized that he played Jeremy in my favorite romantic movie "Leap Year". I don't think that was where I knew him from, I didn't like or pay attention to Jeremy much in that movie.

Leslie Knope also carries a scene to its fullest. She delivers her lines with such finesse, it feels so natural. Although in the earlies Leslie came off crazy for her actions, she is humanized now and more accomplished. I admire the pace the writers move with Leslie and Ben's relationship. The kiss in "Road Trip" was unexpected and warming. After all that tension created, I would have been upset had they not kissed.

I do not see the point for the relationship barrier between workers as Chris' rule. It doesn't change the feelings they would already have. For someone who doesn't like to give bad news, he surely knows how to put a dent in something good. I was happy Chris mistook Leslie's cheap kiss with Tom seriously, Leslie and Ben would have had Chris watching them like a hawk had it been them instead. It would have been upsetting had Chris walked in on Leslie and Ben in the final minutes of the episode.

I always wondered why Chris wasn't harsh with April and Andy, but technically Andy is not officially with the department right (?).

Here's to a well established couple that I am routing for. They really like each other and it is infectious when they smile and 'hang out'. They seem like cool people to just chill with. Ben is ideal for Leslie. He accepts her for who she is and he embraces her success as just that. In "The Fight" I admired how he reached out to Ann on behalf of Leslie, it showed that he really cared about her happiness. He couldn't stand to see her unhappy.

Lexa oh I'm rating them both...

Five Stars

Just for that Leslie and Ben goodness

Smallville: "Season 10" The Cast is smaller but Vastly Effective

2011-05-13T16:00:00.000-07:00

Clois: So in love

The series finale is hours here and we find ways to reminisce on the old days of Smallville. The mid-season had its ups and downs and felt shaky at times. Clark was younger, his decisions were flawed with emotion and he was still finding his way. he wanted to fit into a world that did not know he existed. I only became hooked in the later part of Season 7. Season 10 soon became golden. I admired how Clark has grown. It's been ten years and Clark found love, honor in heroism, strength in relationships, the world finally sees his bravery and the difference he has made. He appears flawless.

"Prophecy" pulled Lois into Clark's super world. this was the first time Lois had to deal with Clark's powers, from a heroic perspective. Imagine the title prophecy, the ability to create or predict from the mind. The idea of creating a destined path. The glamor and fame for being a hero doesn't highlight the struggles to control abilities and moderate an average life. Clark could save the entire world and still be lonely. Lois had to walk in those shoes and sped off at will. She wasn't in control at first, she needed a compass; something to keep her focus on the issue at hand. Jor El gave their love a test, and Lois needed to focus, if not on passing, but understanding what was most important to her.

What Jor El was trying to teach both Lois and Clark, was that a Krptonian's destiny was not simple. There would be trials and if Lois wanted to spend her life with Clark in her 'human form' she must understand the source of his strength. There is a level of control Clark has to utilize. A motivating scene for the fans would be the decisions Clark has to make. While Lois attempted to listen with super hearing, she heard the cries of many and she realized that Clark would have heard millions of cries alike; people in need of a hero. Clark is only one person and even with super speed, he cannot be two places at once. It was the first key to Lois' final decision in the end. Was she being selfish by keeping Clark to herself, and wanting him to live a human life? How could he? He has a bigger path to follow.

Smallville sucks us into this imagined world of heroes, yet it feels so real that we are lacking the very same heroes in our life. Why not, there are the very same villains. Sure they dress differently, but they bite as hard and they punch to hurt. Toyman's presence always paints a man reliving his childhood. What makes him persist and play as though life were a game and he had all the pieces? I was upset with Lois when she confronted him and gave in to his threats. That was the second straw for her, having Clark's powers she could have snapped his neck in a second. All Lois had was Clark's safety in her heart, but her actions were wrongly driven. had she waited long enough Clark could have easily protected himself.

The bond between Lois and Clark has grown stronger. It made it very difficult to watch Lois call off the wedding. She is afraid of hurting him or even standing in his way. Clark has conquered that challenge before, but because this challenge is new to Lois, she sees it as a threat. I don't blame her for being concerned, it shows that she is not selfish and she is willing to put his needs before hers.

Kara's short return was within Oliver's story arc. Oliver wanted to rid himself of the evil inside of him. Even though his intentions were clear and he wanted to stand the good fight, he should have seen through it. Granny Goodness was just as sinister as the last time we saw her. Kara put her trust in Oliver and left just when things took a strange turn for the worst. She could have figured out the good and evil analogies and seen through Oliver's misguided moment, but she trusted Clark and that meant everything to her. Oliver is human and greatly influenced. I wanted this to be a victory for him, not a defeat!

Writers of Smallville believe the show is not for a "Superman", but for just "Smallville" - Pre-Superman, giving fruit to why the series is coming to a close. I cannot believe that things are ending so soon. This would really mean no more episodes of Smallville. While I want another season, I know this was coming since the beginning of Season 10. I would miss Tom Welling, Erica Durance and Allison Mack mostly for their contributions to this epic story told. The series is not over yet, so we can stay tuned to the "Finale", then say our goodbyes.

--------------------------------
Prophecy: Season 10, Episode 20
--------------------------------

Lexa

_______________________

Four and a Half Stars

Grade A-
_______________________

Private Practice: Addison's Testimony "Something Old, Something New"

2011-05-13T13:40:00.000-07:00

The Practice has taken a toll

"I hope it was worth it!"

Name: Addison Montgomery
Title: Director. Head of Neonatal Surgery, Obstetric and Gynecology M.D. F.A.C.S.

I hope it was worth it, those words must have rang in her head and left Addison flabbergasted. "Was Naomi serious!" she must have thought "I thought she was my best friend". In all fairness, sleeping with your best friend's ex could put a dent in the relationship, but Addison felt that dent. She was open with her feelings and she felt guilt before anything was ignited. Sam made it clear to her that she may have been the one for him. Addison did not deceive Naomi, so where did that come from. "I hope it was worth it", as though she stabbed Naomi in the back.

Addison had it rough from the moment she was introduce in Grey's Anatomy. She was labeled the backstabber, a bi%#@, pathetic and inhumane for her action. From what was grasped in all perspective, Addison was searching for happiness. She met her husband at a very young age, still growing in her profession. She was seeking some meaning, a family that wanted her. Derek was not it, but it doesn't excuse the way he isolated her. After the affair he fled to another city and makes him flawed. He refused to face his problems head on and created more baggage to carry.

After that phase, Addison was still searching. Like any human being, she wants love and what might be a unique practice, she cherishes it. Even through her escapades, she has experimented with every possible ideal before she gets involved. She moved to LA for that better life, to life with her friends and share fond memories. She lived ten times as much. Some way down the line she was a turn, unexpected and now it seems like a lot of people are turning against her. The man she loves or loved, turned her away for wanting a child with him. This was strange since he once claimed to love her and he placed her in the very difficult situation with her best friend to a "I hope it was worth it!"

Sam already has a family, there is just no room for anyone else. He has Maya and her baby and her husband and...

These all sound like excuses, like he was playing Addison like a fiddle. It was as if everything that happened between them turned into a joke. Time wasted and for what? Addison's ultimatum was a way to test Sam, but he failed. She saw a side to him that would make anyone resent him. The breaking point for Addie was surely Pete. When times were tough, Pete turned on her in one snap. His wife came first and even though Addison was thinking of the Practice and what Violet made them prone to, Addison was wrong for it. You have your friends, and while there would be concern for them, it would be better to think long term than be small minded.

Addison is now struggling to fit in. Her pain is reflected with every hurt, and mistrial. Every time she tries something new, she loses more. Addison is strong.

What I admire about Private Practice is it's ability to set aside the human mistakes made in everyday life. Not every one knows what they want in this life and it becomes a trial when focus is placed on figuring it out. Addison is a classic example. She still hasn't found it, but she still fighting and she is still trying. Addison has accomplished a lot, she is trying to keep the Practice firm even though it is like a battle field.

Naomi's rage is misplaced. She has too much on her mind and yet she tries to express her stress through anger. There is only so much hurt one human can take, and that is all Addison is, human.

Lexa

Pictures Courtesy: TvFanatic.com

Nikita: Season 1 Definite Big Leap into Season 2

2011-05-13T10:11:00.008-07:00

There are moments in life we try to amend for our mistakes. Revenge is sought and the truth is hidden, yet we still surface and try to do what is right. When we met Nikita in the pilot, it resembled a similar fraction of a show I once loved and missed dearly ‘La Femme Nikita’. I missed actors like Peta Wilson and Roy Dupuis on screen and felt like nothing could replace what was created. I didn’t expect Nikita to win me over, but the series did. The series direction was independent of thought and unique in direction. The show had its similarities to the previous premise, but eventually took its own form into what could be considered one of the ‘best series on television’.

I took a break from reviewing the series and just sat back and watched with enjoyment. Each week brought on an addiction to the remote control at that hour, and everyone saw my excitement when the episode began. I always expected something phenomenal. The camera work is exceptional and unique. They not only have the best actors and actresses to work with, but the directing staff is owed great commendation. Often flawless use of continuation and remarkable fight scenes unlike anything I have seen on television. Maggie Q as Nikita shines best when she puts up a defense and exemplifies a glow in caring for those she loves.

A particular comment was made by few surrounding Shane West’s acting; this series should put a dent in their hesitations towards him. He is a skilled actor, and uses ideal techniques to deliver each sequence. I fall for him every second he is on screen. The plot mirrors an interesting writing team. The writing is ahead of the audience, which is entertaining. Just when the moment passes and you believe you understand the direction of the series; it takes a spin at you. Even the characters confusion is highlighted in the plot. Particular mention should go to the episodes where we felt like Division’s days were numbered and Nikita and Michael had leverage, but that in itself was misguided and Percy had the upper hand all along. That was clever writing, the pieces are not all laid out and the feedback is phenomenal.

The arc resembles life on a whole; we are only faced with the puzzles that are in front of us. There is no telling what agendas people have up their sleeve, but we can prepare ourselves enough to prevail on hostile ground. Michael and Nikita were faced with an overload. They came close to losing their necks, but succeeded because of their hearts and true intention to make for better. Although Alex’s intension was motivated elsewhere, she loved Nikita. Her direction in this series was confusing to me at first, but I understand what the writers are doing now. There are no longer good and bad guys and the fight, there are human beings that were bruised, that loved and have scars that need to be healed. It’s that simple and complicated, it’s what makes Nikita shine as a series. I have no doubt of a renewal coming this way. Michael and Nikita’s relationship have not been typical either. They both have their baggage and are willing to work together to find something that works for them both.

Those who have not begun watching this series yet, should begin now. Buy the entire season when it comes out on DVD. This is coming from someone who had harsh doubt about this series’ success in the beginning, and I have fallen in love with everyone on screen. You would be won over as well. What probably heightened this success was the actual actors and actresses behind the scenes. Maggie Q (Nikita), Shane West (Michael), Lyndsy Fonseca (Alex), Aaron Stanford (Birkhoff), Melinda Clarke (Amanda), Xander Berkeley (Percy) and Tiffany Hines(Jaden) all have warm personalities off screen. You can tell when a cast works well together behind the scenes, it shows. “Pandora” was particularly the best episode for the season. Characters are humanized and you relate with them in this agent world. As for the revenge sought, it relates with the plot. Our lives can be seen as a narrative, we create our own escapes and we love deeply. Here’s to Nikita and for waiting until the next season renewal is announced and Season 2, Episode 1 is aired.

Lexa

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Season 1 Rating
-------------------

Five Stars

Grade A+

Happy Valentines Day 2011! From Lexa

2011-02-14T14:29:00.000-08:00

Hey guys I am a bit upset that I haven't been regular with reviewing 2011. Time races by you so quickly and already we are in February, and I haven't found the time to keep up to date with all our favorite series. I would not make this Valentines about work dilemmas, but it should be about love and happiness, which I hope you guys are having this year, especially today. I would especially like to give a thumbs up to another follower to my blog *yeah* always appreciated!

So instead of a basket of goodies, like the one I got you guys last year, I decided on adopting a few puppies just for this occasion. I'm hoping they would be enough to share. Remember to keep your relationships strong on this occasion and for those going single, Valentines day is not limited to couples only, you can make it your own and for those you love. So it could be a friend as well, at least until the right one arrives.

Here's for hoping for a turnaround within the next few moths, I miss you guys so I would try extra hard to stay in touch. Take care and again...

Happy Valentines! From Lexa!

Picture courtesy: http://3.bp.blogspot.com

Smallville: Season 10, Episode 10 "Luthor" Review

2011-01-03T11:51:00.000-08:00

How strange it is to create such beauty in one hour; to tell an entire story and make it seem as though it were a movie-like premiere. John Glover as Lionel was a sweet refresher. Even since we have not seen his acting on Smallville in a while, any recurrence from the old days would be a great boost (well, with the exception of one particular who crashed season 8). In the earlies, a little way after the first season, I wasn't such an avid fan as I am especially now, since things got heated. Lionel was not my favorite character in the past, but he had his moments then, and now was his moment to shine. I don't know what is it with this season; be it the writers, new inspiration or just the best in character chemistry, but this season is blooming. Even the laziest story-lines surprise us, and it is the same show we've been looking at for years.

We cope however, and lavish at this new beauty, even with the gloomiest patch involving the majority of "Luthor", managing to stand firm as one of the best this season. Imagine our surprise when Clark woke up in a dark time, almost close to black and shadows, no color whatsoever. This could point to the way they saw this alter universe, almost as though something went wrong. We knew Clark was not home; the two women wrapped up in his arms as soon as he woke proved that much and the "Clark Luthor" reference may have raised a few eyebrows, but Glover nailed that, and it was proven Clark was indeed far from home. Glover delivered that Luthor line with such passion, it was good acting on his part.

The storyline took shape when Tess received a Kryptonian artifact and a slight betrayal after Clark discovered a Luthor clone (Alexander) was missing and Tess knew about it. The entire mood in the beginning set the tone for this gloomy time that spun out of control. Clark still doesn't trust Tess to the fullest and slightest errors like that would be cause for concern in his eyes, but after handling the artifact, this spun Clark into this strange world, the audience figured was not anywhere near the Metropolis we knew. There was this insatiable thrill to this world, something we've probably seen in the comics, now come to life. Lionel with a sword brought back memories for the Lex/Lionel battle in past seasons, and now this world had to offer the same battle, with Clark as the replacement son. Who knew! Clark as a Luthor? I didn't think it could be done, but then the story unraveled.

Piecing the plot together, it was so obscure, even worse when Tess planted a kiss on Clark, wanting to rid him of his clothes. Hands off! We're probably the first words that surfaced, and Clark hung in there a bit too long. When I saw the promos for this episode and Tess was kissing Clark, I hoped for a reasonable explanation. The alter universe explanation just didn't cut it, perhaps the writers wanted to have a reason to get anyone to kiss Wellings lips before the finale. Hey why don't they have another guest star appearance, I'm sure I could think up a decent storyline before the series closes. I just know of many friends that would be interested in being cast for that role. Going back on track however, I did some research on the alter universe; this Ultraman that appeared in Clark's role. Ultraman was very familiar to me, and it made sense when I read his biography. He is definitely the bad ass version of Clark (emphasis on bad, probably on ass as well).

Tom Welling really did a wonderful job, I despised the Ultraman Clark portrayed. He was full of it, cold and disheartened, anyone's nightmare. There was also the Earth one and Earth two reference between worlds. That does makes sense, imagine having an opposite you in another world, could be strange either way. Clark (Ultraman), needed to be slapped. Lionel spoiled him a bit too much over the years, Lois couldn't even grasp the concept of liking him, who would anyway, well except Tess, his sister (of no real relation). Still that kiss scene was really deep, as though lots of practice went into it. What didn't surprise me was how much Tess loved kissing Ultraman, as though it were something she wanted to get off her chest a long time. The one thing she knew, was that Clark was no where near there, even as the look a like stood right in front of her.

The storyline of this entire plot was just priceless. This Earth two realization portrayed an Oliver and Lois romance, but there was no real passion between them. That Lois seemed lost, as though she only settled for loving Oliver. The writers purposefully did that, I am certain. They have centered Smallville around Clois and the kisses with Tess only tested a lot of fans patience, but it was well made up for in the end when Clark returned home and Lois knew he was back just by looking into his eyes. Kind of amazing not so? To think that the one you love would know you so well, that you could count on them for that. I am happy that Lois knew Clark's secret then. It surprised me how much damage Ultraman caused in Clark's world without making any headway in getting the artifact to destroy it and remain on earth. Watchtower was damaged, but a bruised Lois with a weapon in her hand, was lack of a match, especially since they were fighting someone as invincible as Clark.

Nonetheless, such brilliance! Lionel in Clark's time in the end, topped the platter after he faded into the crowd (The time seemed pail then, beautiful coloring)! I know this one was late guys, but I am glad to have it up, also the mid-season finale review "Icarus", would be posted soon enough.

Picture Courtesy: teaser-trailer.com

Lexa

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Five Stars

Grade A
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Lexabuti's 2010 Show List - Special

2011-01-02T19:10:00.000-08:00

Happy 2011!!! This time Christmas has come and gone, and we meet a new year together. There is still time to reflect on the shows that have been with us and the others that have left. There are even those odd shows that managed to spring into an additional favorite. Here is my end of the year list. For 2010 we were introduced to a loathsome of series, so the list was increased to the top 40. Before we continue, let's give a thumbs up to a new follower to my blog!!! Always appreciated!

My Favorite 2010 Series.

40) Cougar Town - This series outdid itself in its first season, mainly because off Courtney Cox. I always imagined another "Friends" comeback, as though there would be something that would make you lake until you cried, or for weeks on end. Cougar Town may have come really close, but missed it in the second half of the first season. Somehow the second season has moved farther away from the "Cougar" aspect, and moved towards this friends appeal. It's no "Friends" but I still appreciate the quirky, so it made my top 40. Although it still means I expect more, hopefully more than they have given us.

39) The Office - What went wrong this year? For me the Office lost it's edge, sometime after Jim and Pam got married. They often had their once in a blue funny episode out of the season, but it just doesn't last for weeks end on like it used to. The new characters have added an appeal. Hey what happened to Timothy Olyphant? The guy who Pam dated before Jim? I found a new reason to look forward to 'The Office'. Since Steve Carell is leaving 'The Office', I don't know what much they could do after that.

38) Life Unexpected - I always liked the concept of this series, but they just missed the point and turned it into a romantic drama instead.

37) Hawthorne - Oh how I enjoy having Jada Pinketh Smith deliver her lines here. She is truly a brilliant actress in this series. Although I often questioned her relationship with Tom, the series managed to pull through. The only problem I have with this one is the fact that it's just too short! Come on, we really need more episodes to tell the full story.

36) Undercovers - I liked this one probably after the first two episodes. I just couldn't really connect with any character, except the annoying Bill Hoyt obsessed with Steven Bloom. I looked forward to what more sucking up he could actually do, you would think it would get stale after a while, but he gives it a comedy boost.

35) No Ordinary Family - Now we all understood that this was definitely No Ordinary Family. Could we get beyond that premise now? There were a few episodes that stood out for me, the fight scenes with the Mrs. Everything else seems so ordinary even in the extraordinary. I was so fed up with Jim Powell's co workers picking on him, being a sketch artist is such a unique job. At most, it requires a level of skill that could amaze many, so weren't his co workers impressed. The lack of support made Jim's character at work seem so pointless. It would have made more sense if even they had a few co workers patting him on the back for helping them solve a big case. That was probably a big deal that was ruined, also we as the audience wonder 'how did they get their powers?', if it wasn't the water, then what was it?

34) Burn Notice - Well I am surprised I have Burn Notice here, instead of in the early part of this. It has gotten washed down and frankly, the characters are beginning to annoy me. The clients are predictable, the mother, Michael and his discovering who burned him; these are all repetitive formulas that often work against the series. As for the Finale, (SPOILER) Michael finally back in the organization was a huge surprise, probably why I was a bit lenient. (END SPOILER) I still do not think think that things would get better from there, especially since the writers plan on souring Michael and Fiona's relationship. I almost forgot they were still dating until those last few episodes.

33) White Collar - This was a fresh one in the beginning and it still remains that way. The only fault it has is the pace; there aren't many high points of even lows, there is an equal level of fun and enjoyment. That can work for the good and the bad. There was one I can remember when the Kate's storyline escalated, but that is just one I can think of. Now I don't think I care about Kate, since Caffrey appears carefree without her. Maybe they should of shown scenes of them together in the past to makes the audience establish a connection between them. I still admire this one though.

32) Justified - Hmm The main star says all, Nuff said! Well that and its interesting plot; seems like something you know, but unlike something you've seen before, very subtle and country-like.

31) Scoundrels - Did not expect to like this, kept watching because of Tony from 24, as the cop that fell for the wife in the plot. Very interesting twist, but Tony was less interesting. The other characters out-shined him greatly.

30) Royal Pains - What a Royal Pain in the ^&%. Ok, but truly this is an interesting series, I always thought it would be one of those typical doctor shows you've seen before, but in fact the characters add a little appeal that makes it stand firm long enough to anticipate another season.

29) Drop Dead Diva - How refreshing to have this Legal drama, mixed in with fun and enjoyment.

28) Rizzoli & Isles - Crime drama, but the characters actually make this one interesting.

27) The Glades - This was one series I happened to cross over, between channels, but it had this way of hooking you in.

26) Desperate Housewives - I missed several seasons for this series, but I began watching again this season, and it's makes an interesting Sunday.

25) Rookie Blue - I was really excited for Rookie Blue; the promos were solid and I couldn't wait for the next episode. The one thing I did not like was the relationship aspect of it, although I appreciated the attachment to the detective, they made Callaghan and Andy move too fast as a couple and ruined it as quickly.

24) Outsourced - Surprisingly, this turned out to be interesting, I didn't think I would like this one. A little bit of comedy encourages an appreciative sense of humor for this flick.

23) Memphis Beat - Cool, mellow and talented. I am certain there are more words used to describe this one, but the musicality of it would make you smile.

22) Parks & Recreation - Still funny, and it was missed at a good part of 2010.

21) Outlaw - How much more would they cancel! Legal drama, I could have used a few more episodes.

20) Leverage - Clever and fresh, but could use a little more sprucing up.

19) V - Let's see what more happens in 2011, but this was a fresh series, with unexpected twists.

18) Bones - Cannot get enough of Brennan and Booth, but the writers really need to do something about the tension that is still there among Brennan, Booth and his girlfriend. The Brennan-Booth connection was just left in mid air.

17) Raising Hope - Surprisingly refreshing. Definitely check this one out.

16) Grey's Anatomy - I began watching this along side Private Practice again, but it still doesn't compare.

15) House - Huddy fan, but House has this way of being extremely saddening at times, and yet funny. House's comments are for the funny, and he has his moments.

14) Castle - Brilliant, but please give us more of the Castle and Beckett we love!

13) Lie To Me - I began watching this one for the first time in 2010, the first episode seemed so plain, or otherwise trying to hard, so I just didn't bother. It is only through a recommendation from a friend that brought the hook this season.

12) Hellcats - Wow, Tom Welling behind the scenes producing this fine quality. Excellent depiction of characters and plot.

11) The Mentalist - Still waiting to here more surrounding Jane's past, rather than case after case, week after week.

10) The Defenders - You would love this one; a legal drama with lawyers that seem to care more than what we've seen before. You would enjoy every bit.

9) Dark Blue - You guys know how I feel about this one. Oh how I miss it already, you cannot get a team like this that would produce such flawless quality.

8) Human Target - First season had it flat moments, but this season keeps climbing heights. You would not regret setting aside your day around this one, I believe it would be worth it. Share some popcorn if you must or throw it.

7) Chase - Definitely a Chase, definitely needs more support.

6) Parenthood - I loved this from day one, it manages to be the neighbors you knew next door, the family you shared thanksgiving with, the friend you never knew would come through and would love you so much.

5) Blue Bloods - Another family show, in competition with Parenthood.I always admired the family aspect of this one that draws you in on a Friday. Coupled with Smallville this makes for a fun filled evening. If you guys are familiar with Samantha Who, do you remember Samantha's best friend Andrea? Well she stars alongside Danny (the main star) in this flick, but imagine her as a strong lead role, she aces her partner arc and ads the comedy every show craves to have. Definitely worth the entire hour.

4) Private Practice - Of course, my all time favorite series, since Addison came on, that would definitely be day one. There has been a constant sad appeal, but the writing is well portrayed.

3) Smallville - Still in my top 5. Growing stronger and leading its way into an epic appeal. Smallville stands on its own as the strongest series on television, gladly it would meet its end with a decent finale. Clois makes this series for me, but there are other arcs that makes this one score with great heights.

2) The Good Wife - This is a new burst of fun. Well written, well depicted, brilliant acting, you would not go wrong with popcorn at the television screen, bring a tissue (Well that's too dramatic). I find myself setting aside things just to find out more surrounding Alicia's life. Alicia spends most of her time providing for her family, her job also means the world to her. I believe that it is not only for the money, but her passion for doing her job. You guys should watch this one if you haven't already started. Worth the runner up position.

1) Nikita - Dun dun da dun dun pah! Yup it's Nikita! From the first episode I didn't expect to love this so much, but I did and now it's a fresh series that made the number one slot. Well done and Keep it up. It would not get old.

Favorite New Series

Blue Bloods - Another cop show, but what makes this one stand out? Oh, the mystery and real downtown appearance, then it's back home to the family, a big family that has this warmth and you admire them for it. Danny and his partner hmm what a pair, though I hope they would keep Andrea from "Samantha Who" as a regular, make her permanent. Don't miss it, this is fairly new so you could still catch up, experience another well written series on television among the few.

Chase - It's a chase that you could catch up with. Something about this one brings it home, and makes it stand out among others with the same theme. I know most compared it with "In Plain Sight", but there is more action and goes beyond the sappy, while getting to the point. I did miss "In Plain Sight", which missed my slot this year for its long absence, but Chase is unlike it. Annie frost is different and there is more to her that I like, and I hope the writers would take this seriously to know that there are fans that appreciate this one!

The Defenders - You know, the lawyer show has been done, used over and over again. You know this doesn't come off lawyer-ish to me, it has this friend in need feel to it. Lawyers that don't represent a company, but represent the people and I appreciate this newbie. You might actually find it as warming.

The Glades - As I mentioned earlier, in between channels "The Glades" made it appearance, and it had this comedy sort to it and I watched on until the hour was up. It is simple, may have been done before, but I still like it.

Hellcats - You know cheerleader, best friend - turned into relationship drama hmm added with Ashely Tisdale, I expected a typical plot, tuning out after the first episode. Strangely Alyson Michalka made her appearance and that girl showed of some slick moves and hardcore abs working it on the dance floor. She gave it a certain edge, smooth and likable in fact. Her conflicted character brings it home and the finale; I felt really sorry for Marti (Which reminds me of a few more reviews to end off - coming soon, hopefully before it begins again). Any show that has this effect could really leave an impact, surprising one indeed.

Memphis Beat - It has this Elvis feel to it, of course the main star is obsessed with similar vocals. I haven't done much research into his character, but if he sings all his tunes, he is very inspirational, loaded with talent. It keeps you going back to hear the latest, that and the story attached, very smooth.

Nikita - Well, well, it looks as though I actually got attached to Nikita. I didn't expect it, but I did try to be objective and it paid off. I find myself tuning in to old episodes, even the pilot that I found questionable in the earlies. I smile now at what I felt for the pilot and understood why I may have felt defensive of "La Femme Nikita". I may like the pilot a little more than before, but I loved every single episode afterward.

Raising Hope - Ha! Would you believe I laughed in the beginning, I mean genuinely out of the direct uncanny sense of humor these writers had for this one. Poor hope, poor Jimmy!

Rizzoli & Isles - You know I just like the quirkiness of Maura and the blunt Jane. Those two just I don't know how to explain it - crack you up!

Rookie Blue - Remove all the relationship drama, these cops have a long journey to travel and we love being in the passenger seat with them.

Scoundrels - What were you thinking, this show needs some more tough cops, probably Jack Bauer would have been a good addition. I applaud Cheryl West for her incentive to go beyond what her husband expected her to have for her life, but kissing the cop in the end, just before the husband walks through to door, definitely expecting a continuation.

Unexpected Series 'Wows'!

Chase
Covert Affairs
The Defenders
The Good Wife
Nikita
Hellcats
Human Target - This Season Especially!
Memphis Beat - Expected this one to be boring.
Outsourced - Expected this to be really lame.

Series Blows

24 (Finale that is)

Burn Notice - A Slow decline this season

The Event - What went wrong? They just continued to throw the audience in an unexplained merry-go-round, leaving us puzzled in the end. We are now confused as to who are the aliens they claim and well everything else.

Life Unexpected - Disappointing. Expected this season to get better.

Make it or Break it - Lauren just needs to grow up or go.

The Office - How many times could Steve Carell act just Michael enough to survive the half hour, even he needs a break from this.

The Whole Truth - Lost its ability to capture an audience. I liked the concept, but it just got lame and repetitive. I stopped watching this before the cancellation was announced.

Most Missed Series of All Time!

Dark Blue
Men In Trees
Terminator The Sarah Connor Chronicles
Xena Warrior Princess

My New Years Wish-list

We need more good series' that actually stays on for a few more seasons, just a few is all I ask. A few episodes and a spur of the moment series finale, would not cut it anymore!

Hope Everyone had a Merry Christmas and Lexa wishes you a Happy New Year!

Life Unexpected: Season 2, Episode 9 "Homecoming Crashed" Review

2010-11-30T13:31:00.000-08:00

This was probably the most thrill we got out of this series in a while. Sadly it was short-lived, and it could not make up for all the rushed backlog they threw over us this season. There are subtle story-lines that make up a good series; the writing has to be on point, the characters must be well connected, and fans must be able to connect with them. Sometimes an idea is developed behind the scenes, but once it is placed on screen, something goes wrong. This is a fragment of what "Life Unexpected" has been competing with these past few weeks. I tune in because it is not too crazy to follow, but there is a possibility for things to turn around. I still expect more from it, and the moment the homecoming theme was reintroduced, it showed that instead of making Life Unexpected stand out, the series only reflected what other shows accomplished. So the plots become old very fast.

I was surprised Lux did not think of Bug once. He was such a huge part of her life, and it seemed as though she cut him out completely, as though it were that easy. Lux's relationship with Eric is so far-fetched and almost fairytale-like, which makes it impossible to believe that they could get away with sneaking around for so long. Eric is more mature, so he should not be encouraging sneaking around. I don't know why the writers didn't truly bring Eric into Lux's foster lifestyle. He should have been the one to discover Lux's foster mom, and he should have been the one asking the questions, before he had this epiphany to be with Lux. It would have been more believable had Eric and Lux bonded over that defining moment in her life, when he finally discovered the truth that she was abused. It would have been realistic had Eric been the one throwing the punches.

Maybe Eric and Lux's relationship would not seem so unrealistic, had the writers created a better environment for their 'love' to bloom. Fans appreciate some complicated relationships, because reality welcomes that kind of atmosphere. The direction the writers took with this, went slightly of course the moment Cate was the one to discover the foster mother and believe her over Lux. I understand Cate's hesitance to believe Lux completely, that is partially because she hasn't taken the time to truly bond with her daughter. She spends so much time arguing with Ryan, that she barely notices how much more time she needs to spend getting to know Lux. So I was disappointed with Cate when she didn't at least ask to hear Lux's side to the foster mother's version of the story.

How many of us were surprised when Tasha took the bat into the foster dad. He seriously looked like the abusive type, his wife was even intimidated by him. That entire scene was filled with ranges of emotions. Someone needed to hit that guy and if Tasha didn't do it, he surely would have done Lux harm. Lux spirals over there in a rage to confront her past foster mother, without expecting to face her husband? She surely wasn't thinking straight. Next time Cate, try listening to Lux, then she wouldn't feel the need to call Ryan, the last alternative in my book, because he still annoys me.

They are now painting Baze as the good father and relationship type guy. It's moving how much he cares for Lux, enough to want to make a difference in her life. He was even willing to woo a client to get that paycheck advance, and it worked. The client (can't remember her name) was right on Emma's character, you really don't know how to approach her. I am sure it is not the first time she would get comments like that, and her bosses should have a heads up. So far, I have no idea what Baze and Emma does for a living, all I know that Emma is above Baze (no pun intended) and the rest doesn't really matter. We haven't really had much of her work life explored in detail, that did not revolve around Baze (that is). I liked how Baze was able to bond with Emma's son slightly, who came off quite bad-boyish in the beginning. I believe the pill talk and raiding the cabinet's are just a front. At one point, I hoped he would have been the one to swing the bat, instead of Tasha. Instead he did nothing. The weed talk was laughable and giving his "bad-boy" status, he should have been all for a crazy Lux hijacking Cate's car.

*Sigh* After speculation was confirmed and Life Unexpected did meet it's cancellation (Source), I was still hoping for the series to turn around. Adding new characters like Emma and her connection with her son Sam did not help much. They still needed to go that extra mile. For now, we can be amused by the plot they give us, firstly following that reveal that Sam knew about Eric and Lux's relationship. The promos show Sam teasing Lux about it for the next episode. I wonder if the writers are trying to push the bad boy image in Lux's life; probably a new crush. I wonder how far could Lux take her relationship with Eric anyway? So Lux isn't the perfect responsible girl they painted her after all, I don't know who they were trying to fool, because I knew Lux was far from that stereotype. Let's see what happens next.

Oh and by the way, where was Lux going with that rather short dress for homecoming, without Cate pointing that fact out? Cate needs to pay more attention to these things, not even a funny remark from Baze. (Tsk, Tsk).

Picture Courtesy: cwtv.com

Lexa

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Three Stars

Grade C-
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Private Practice: Season 4, Episode 9 "Can't Find My Way Back Home" Review

2010-11-30T08:53:00.000-08:00

Private Practice has adopted a serious tone this Season. In the early days of this series, we had lots of comedy and many freestyle relationships. No one was really ready to settle down. We had a lot of breakups and heartbreaks, but like life, the serious decisions settle in; there would be the occasional comedy, but those tough decisions are still evident. The past few episodes have focused on Charlotte's recovery, which is proving to be even more difficult than Charlotte herself imagined. Charlotte is a strong person, something about her character that always made her the toughest, but we always saw a softer side in her, when it came to Cooper. That only shows up the cloak she used to hide her sensitivities, and she would truly be loving if she had her chance to show the world. Which is why these moments are still heartbreaking.

We have other characters moving on with their lives, trying to be the best they can be. Yet we open to a traumatized Charlotte entering the police station with Cooper. Something about the atmosphere made Charlotte sick and horrified. Cooper was the only one left in the dark, we only hoped that it was just a robbery, and Charlotte was only badly beaten, because the alternative was mind-numbing. Charlotte tries to push herself to recovery, but no matter how close she gets, it's always a mile-step away for her to access. Still, when Cooper announced a line up at the station, there was probably a gasp on the audiences' part "Finally a chance to get that perp behind bars!", but Charlotte couldn't face him. What would have angered anyone was seeing the smug savage blatantly admit to Sheldon the heinous act in the open, as though his actions had no consequences. How are we as an audience supposed to react to that?

What was the purpose for writers showing another side to the perp? Sheldon in all his right followed the guy, out of fear that he would hurt someone, but then to reveal that he had a family! The only thing that would give Charlotte the satisfaction she needed, was to know that this perp was behind bars and his family spat on him because of the animal he was. It was amazing, the way Cooper was willing to risk going to jail, just so Charlotte could have that feeling of safety. When Cooper found out what happened, he snapped at Olivia. I actually feared that Cooper would overreact and start shouting at her out of guilt, but he maintained his calm, and got out of the elevator after some shrewd words. Cooper was the drive for Charlotte's got bravery. She couldn't lose Cooper, he was her strength and the only reason she could relax if even for five seconds.

When we mention the other lives that existed, we relate with Addison and her growth. Even as Addison came to the Practice, we understand the complicated lifestyles that existed there. I can actually say that I was warming up to AddiSam, almost as though they were a fresh item, interesting enough to survive the Season. When Addison mentioned having children, I just couldn't picture it. The writers have placed Addison and Sam in many sexual positions, ironically, when it comes to children, we question Addison's notion. Children would mean an actual commitment, and also that marriage could also be a possibility. Also Addison would also have to consider being a step mother to Maya, and a grandparent. Does Addison just realize the value of life to appreciate welcoming more life into her world? I think Sam would have a problem with that, especially since his reaction to her request was "uhmmmm..... not really". Sam is already a father to Maya, anything else seems so unrealistic.

As for Violet and Pete, their relationship as husband and wife is becoming stronger. I just didn't really think of them as the marriage type, but they are doing such a good job at it. The focus was placed on Pete's mother and brother, and we got to understand a little bit of what Pete's life was like. Even as his brother came to him for help, I hoped for them to reconnect, but for his mother, she was very cold. It was as though she didn't even want to try and have a relationship with Pete. Maybe she would have considered it at some point, but that wasn't enough. I admired Violet's influence over Pete, and they provided some enlightenment to the series' gloom. I only hoped that Pete's relationship with his mother would be different, she didn't even know the man her son grew up to be.

The episode, as usual, brought some unusual cases to the table, that they were able to solve in some form or fashion. The conflict between Amelia and Addison was notable, and we got to understand what drives Amelia. I was happy the procedure worked in the end. The writers grasped a method that establishes each episode, and I wonder sometimes where they get their incentives. I don't know what to expect next episode, but I hope the best for Charlotte since she pointed out her worst fear. I also hope the best for Cooper as he continues to hold Charlotte's hand, and be the best love he can. Violet did a good deed in the end, she understands what it takes to be there for her friend.

I hope to see Naomi soon, she has a lot of explaining to do about her absence.

Picture Courtesy: tvfanatic.com

Lexa

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Four and a Half Stars

Grade A
______________________

Smallville: Season 10, Episode 9 "Patriot" Review

2010-11-30T06:47:00.000-08:00

What does it mean to be a patriot? Someone who is proud of their country, who would be willing to do whatever it took, to be noble on their country's behalf? In "Patriot", the focus was so much on the country, that mankind and humanity fell into the shade. What good is doing something for the country, if the country does not have a say. So much that greed and rage were the only emotions that surfaced. The writers have created this world for us, that we delight in the thought that people could fly, that the man-of-steel actually exists among humans. Is it so much the superhero with superpowers we delight in, or the thought that in our world today, that a mere human could be their very own superhero, without the powers needed be to do the right thing.

Have the writers successfully created this image? I am intrigued by Clark's growth, even through his human form, he has faced many challenges and battled many enemies. Haven't we all done the same in our lives? There would be people that try to bring us down and crush us just to have that power over us, but we prevail, because it is human to keep climbing. So Clark isn't so different from us, and neither are the people that love him. Only when we fear something and the power it could bring down, do we put up our weapons and fight, we don't know whether the threat is harmless or harmful those defenses go up, because either way we must be prepared for the worst. So was General Slade Wilson wrong in his actions of capture and possibly torture, all in the name of hi country? He seemed like he would have done harm even if he discovered the vigilantes he captured were harmless. He seemed like the type to only crave power.

This situation reminded me so much of Lois' father; "The General" Sam Lane. He was all set out to destroy the vigilantes, until The Blur saved his daughter's life and his heart was lightened. He however still considered the thought that not all vigilantes would have The Blur's reserve. I expected General Wilson to follow the same pattern, that in the end he would see the worth of having the vigilantes on his team. It was hopeless however, because of the darkness that Clark had to battle. I enjoy making connections like this to everyday life. The characters are almost comic-like, but we face the same battles, so we relate with "Smallville", even through it's fictional state.

The writers chose to develop their plots at a steady pace, just like how they developed Lois and Clark's relationship. Which is why I was surprised after we believed Clark told Lois everything, that in deed he was still keeping her in the dark, trying to protect her. I was surprised when Tess inquired to Lois about Clark and she uttered something about Jury Duty. Tess looked at her a bit shocked, only then did I wonder whether Clark filled Lois in on the Tess alliance. We haven't seen Lois in Watchtower, but we only assumed that Clark would have at least mentioned that side to him. Tess could only play along in the end, Clark didn't tell Lois, so she shouldn't be the one to say anything either.

I didn't see the point to Clark's reserve, Lois could handle herself, and she has proven that to him time and time again. Some old habits would not die hard, and it becomes natural instinct for Clark to keep those he love in the dark. On the flip side, it was a refresher seeing AC (Aquaman), even hunkier than the last time we saw him. Surprisingly bringing a wife with him, at least we would not have to worry about him and Lois' history. He was also changed, more a man than a boy himself, with bigger priorities and goals. I admired his approach to defending his people, but working in teams always gave better results. The writers cleverly made a similarity between Aquaman's relationship with Mera and Clark's relationship with Lois. Aquaman was clearly with his wife for a long time, given the memories they shared with us, so I appreciated Mera's bluntness to Lois. Mera's and Aquaman could be Lois and Clark in a few years or months. Probably Clois could grow even stronger. Mera and Aquaman make a warming couple, which is why this episode was probably used to develop that side to Clois.

I appreciated Lois' input in Watchtower and her determination to be in Clark's life completely. Now that Lois has seen the other side to Clark, she could also be exposed to his indirect harsh ways of protection. Still it was funny having Lois see Tess appear on screen when she went to Aquaman's hideout, almost as though she was slapped in the face. Mera also snapped at her in the nude for being an outsider, but she made up for it when she stated her confidence in Lois in the end. The final scene between Lois and Clark when Oliver was caught off guard having Lois at Watchtower was surreal.

I want Clark to battle this darkness that seems to frighten him if he were to fail. It also could be the worst of most enemies he would have to face. I actually missed Kara, I wonder if she got a decent job. She was another person who came out about her powers, so it was strange that the others didn't consider her as an alternative instead of Oliver. Oliver risks too much in his life, signing the Patriot Act without any Plan B if in case things got out of control, that was reckless on his part. He still is human without Green Arrow, and he has to be careful. As for General Wilson, his actions were reckless as well. Did he believe the vigilantes would just crack. After he caged Clark like an animal and declared some theory for justice, he didn't do his research well on The Blur. His death was for nothing. I understood that no matter what Clark said, he wasn't going to budge, but Clark's plea to save his life was more patriotic. It's sad that he could not see that.

This was an interesting episode, a lot of exposition, and unexplained theory, but I liked it. We want to keep guessing. However, now that others know Clark's weakness, he needs to be extra careful.

Picture Courtesy: rackspacecloud.com

Lexa

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Four Stars

Grade B+
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Nikita: Season 1 Episode 9 "One Way" Review

2010-11-27T15:11:00.000-08:00

Then there are some series we can sit back and relax, because in a series with this good material, we as fans remain confident. We trust writers and the equivalent is a good feedback on both ends. How about the pace of this series; there is not much revealed and we are kept guessing at every step. I love it when a series is this good and people recognize it! It really takes the stress off.

"One Way" was an excellent example of this. Gradually, we not only get to appreciate what drives Nikita to bring down Division, we also appreciate her relationship with Michael. Now I watched this episode many times over, and it did not get old. The stunts are incredibly challenging, but effective and the action is gripping. Michael's past was descriptive, with the little scenes we had of his wife and daughter, yet in those short scenes, we felt his loss. His lust for Kasim's blood, this was actually the first time we saw a passionate rage in Michael. The only people Michael would hate were the ones that got in the way of him having the satisfactory kill and Nikita became Michael's new enemy.

We have this connection between Michael and Nikita, that the writers would not shed further light on, but that's okay. Their relationship is probably even complicated to them, that it is so difficult to cover. We can only cherish moments when they are screened together. Now, I fear for Nikita, because Michael is literally on a war path. Before he would have given Nikita a break and not shoot her, because some part of him wanted to agree with what she was doing. Michael's only reason for being in Division was for him to avenge his family's slaughter. Michael was willing to have himself killed, so he could have his victory. Is Michael blinded by rage? I wouldn't blame him if he was. Michael wanted so much to have himself killed, but part of him wanted to stay alive.

I admire the moments they spent together; talking close, almost as if they were going to kiss. Percy, couldn't have it. He was too happy watching Michael suffer after he didn't get his kill. Almost as though he preferred his new angst he had for Nikita. He needs Michael the most, because he is the only one that could get close enough. In the beginning Percy, did not see Nikita as a threat, but now she is the biggest threat and Michael is the only weapon he could use. He didn't care that sending in Division troops could sabotage Michael's plans, so long as Nikita was out of the way.

These characters are so interesting, that I have already formed an attachment to this series. The secrecy and anonymity of it had an overwhelming effect. Alex's role in the matter was also intriguing. For the first time in a while, we have Jayden back. She came off a bit feisty in the earlies, but now she seems more reserved and likable. After that kiss Alex shared with Thom, I expected another Alex and Jayden smack down. I would love to know what Jayden was up too all the episodes we had not seen her. Still, it was nice to have Alex go the extra mile for Nikita and even further to clean up her tracks. I remember the escape root she mentioned in an earlier episode to a friend, it was nice to have Alex show us the route. Even if Jayden was able to prove she was not the one who found out Division's back door escape, it would be no surprise if she was canceled just for knowing where it was.

I even look forward to Amanda scenes, she is so interesting, I just want to know her background even more. Even if Alex is smart enough to outsmart Amanda, she can only do so because Amanda doesn't know Alex's true motives. It is enough that Amanda knows something is up, and I wonder how long could Alex keep risking her life, without eventually getting caught. I mean, she had to break her wrist just to get Nikita the information she needed. Alex handled herself good, but how much could she really trust Jayden? I would like them too be friends, but Division may have that brainwashing tendency that can cause each situation to surprise you either way. Alex needs to be more careful, and Nikita needs to enforce that. I wonder if they would have an episode where Michael suspects Alex, or where someone realizes how long Alex spends on Division's computer.

Now that Thom is an agent, I suspect that Alex would be using him, pretty soon he could catch up with her. For now, the production sequence of this episode was visually affective. The scenes with Michael's daughter was warming, a unique orange-like theme, showing his past military lifestyle. The mood changed the moment Percy first introduced himself to Michael, more gloomy. Division scenes are always cold and detached, more colors of steel. The moments between Alex and Nikita are always somewhat professional yet warming at the same time, I am still trying to define their relationship. I was skeptical of this series in the beginning. I was still loving "La Femme Nikita", that I just didn't want anyone else to ruin whatever memory I had of it. "Nikita" however keeps climbing heights, as I get to know each character, actor and actress even more, I grow to admire this series and now I even look forward to the next week, when the episode hour is up.

After Nikita clutched Michael's knife in that final scene, I remember the moment he gave it to her and how close they were then. They keep a scene interesting and I really cannot wait for the next installment. I am certain that I would be surprised. Shane West did a brilliant job and Maggie Q keeps on exceeding my expectations.

Picture Courtesy: tvmedia.ign.com

Lexa

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Five Stars

Grade A+
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Canceled Shows: Lexa's View - We as Fans should have a SAY!

2010-11-27T14:22:00.000-08:00

There were many new series that were sprung on us at the latter part of this year.
Shows like:
Outlaw
Undercovers
The Whole Truth

There were also others that were with us for a short time like:
Dark Blue
Life Unexpected
Terminator the Sarah Connor Chronicles (TSCC)
Men In Trees
10 things I Hate About You

It is actually sometimes a relief when some shows are canceled, for the sake of closure. Some writers start off with a good idea, then carry the storyline into an odd unlikeable turnout, leaving the plot empty and basically worthless. SO I applaud writers for giving in to that early season closure. Then there are some shows that goes on and on and on and the writers just can't seem to realize that no matter how much love stories they create, it's not getting better, unless the catch a lucky break.

My worst fear however, is when there are REALLY, I mean really good series that either don't gain the necessary attraction or the writers make the BIG mistake of canceling before it becomes epic. The worst feeling for a fan is to have their favorite series end with a cliffhanger. Which leaves me somewhat in tears when I found out my favorite series 'Dark Blue' was canceled. For those that follow the series, the writing there was flawless. Sure we had some characters that needed a little more development, but everything else made up for it. The actors were incredibly easy on the eyes and when that last season episode was aired, I waited patiently for any hope of return.

Writers just don't seem to get it, those that become avid fans pay the most after it seems like they give up on a plot, or simply the fact that not much people paid attention. I can think of a list of shows that are more popular, but lacks any sense of chemistry between characters. I wonder sometimes how they last so long? So this would definitely be another heartbreak. I felt the same way the moment I heard TSCC was canceled.

What recently made the canceled list was Life Unexpected Source . I still hoped for a turnaround with this one, even as cancellation was expected, I wanted to have more of Lux's life established. We as fans should have a say in what should or should not get canceled. It seems almost unfair. For those that don't watch 'Dark Blue', you guys should check out the reruns, it's really a good cop series. Even sometimes it felt as though I was the only one that enjoyed it so much, I am certain that there would be an out cry for this one. Huge mistake canceling this one!!!

Picture Courtesy: ngepress.com & images.buddytv.com

Lexa

Smallville: Season 10, Episode 8 "Abandoned" Review

2010-11-15T17:33:00.000-08:00

"Abandoned", anyone would feel the same way had their parents deserted them at birth. At least that's the way children see it, they don't know what's going through their parents minds when they did what was believed right. This episode was used to shed some light to the years of darkness built up in each child, now adults. Tess, Lois and Clark was subject to this emotion of abandonment, and they each discovered their parent's true emotions before they left them to face the world alone.

Teri Hatcher guest starred as Lois' mother and it brought back so many memories. Why couldn't they have her guest star in an earlier episode, to make Lois watching those videos more profound? Those tapes were hidden away and now her father decided to release them to Lois at this defining moment for Lois. Maybe he thought she needed them, or maybe it was time for him to let go, his big girl was growing up and she needed her mother. Erica Durance and Teri Hatcher sold that moment. There was a lot of exposition in that scene and it could have been boring or simply uninteresting, but it was golden. It showed how much Lois craved a mother in her life; someone to give her advice even when she didn't think she needed it. Hatcher filled in all those voids Lois kept close.

I remember "Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman", and how much I loved Teri Hatcher there. Instead, Hatcher proved herself as a mother in this character and I had hoped to have more scenes with her in it. However what followed made up for that. In all the comic books and Superman themed shows and movies we've seen, there has always been the end of Krypton, Kal-El's parents sending him to earth and the message they left their son. It took the love of a woman (Lois) for her guy to reveal that message; a defining moment in Smallville history. You could sense the concern and hope for their son and the love between parents. A message Clark had to touch to see if it was real, but it was only a message and his parents were not before him, his fingers went right through them.

It took guts for Lois to confront Jor-El without knowing what he was capable of. He couldn't hurt her though, he knew what she meant to Clark, and it would mean losing his son forever, if that meant anything to him, which I am certain it would. I am happy Lois and Clark saw the message together. They are truly open with each other and it seems as though Lois knows more than anyone else in Clark's life, and she is willing to go beyond and above for them as a couple. Although it was interesting how easily Lois got to see Jor-El, hiding the key behind a bookshelf. I guess Clark didn't really expect anyone to go looking, people hardly visit the barn anymore.

A cliffhanger from last season was revealed along with a filler into Tess' past. Granny Goodness, seemed to good to be true, and not in a good way either. Tess' dream was so real and we all sensed that it had something to do with her past. So Granny Goodness was to thank for Tess' brilliant plastic surgeon. I almost forgot about Tess' mishap with Zod that landed her in the hospital. She is entirely transformed from that moment that her task to the audience is to do good. Yet, when Granny decides to give Tess a birthday present, it all comes together and Tess' dreams become memories of her past. She soon remembers Lionel as her father, making Lex her half brother. I only hope she and Lex...

Clark needs to find a way to combat his Kryptonite vulnerability. He needs to walk with a device that calls on his friends for help. The bad ass chicks with the lasso and the punches were depressing. Were they there from birth? Do the fight each other everyday in a dungeon-like place? How hasn't anyone shut down the orphanage? I was happy that Clark was helping Tess. It changes the way he used to see Tess, but I didn't like him being in captivity through his vulnerability. Kryptonite was the only reason he didn't storm out with Tess. What did Granny Goodness wipe from his memory? She did get that advantage over him before the Kryptonite was defused, then Granny Goodness just disappeared. Very strange. I simply do not understand how everyone owns Kryptonite as though they could purchase it in the local market. I am glad Clark took down lasso girl, she needed to be tied up and tamed. Granny Goodside and the Darkseid union was semi-disturbing. Those Justice League footnotes came in handy providing insight into their relationship, and Smallville finds ways to mesh together bits and pieces of Superman affiliated series. It created a suspense I think we would appreciate, slightly.

Finally Lois moves in! I mean she doesn't have a choice since the Talon incident, with no home to go to. Then we have the confirmation that Clark did ask the General for Lois' hand in marriage, and that diamond ring did shine. Lois and Clark have been through a lot as a couple and it was only a matter of time before this came up. I remember last season resenting the lack of Clois moments and how many time Clark disappointed Lois. Now, all is almost forgiven and I am happy for them both. The moment was sealed by Lois receiving that wedding note from her mother. Let's just see what happens next. For now let's focus on Lutessa, really couldn't she just be Tess. Did they have to make her name close to Lex, her last name would have spoken loud enough for fans. We would still call her Tess right guys? At least everyone found their parents in the end, and realized how much they were loved.

Pictures Courtesy: scifiscoop.com & wordpress.com

Lexa

_______________________

Four and a Half Stars

Grade A-
_______________________

Hellcats: Season 1 Episode 9 "Finish What We Started" Review

2010-11-15T15:39:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when someone gets Savannah upset? It's not pretty, Marti had to suffer through several burpees because of it. Moreover, I can't believe Marti did them, she couldn't stop at one point and ask Savannah what was up? Although Savannah had every right to be angry with Dan, Marti had every right to keep "The Back of a Car" at the back of her mind. She and Savannah are friends, but some things are difficult to talk about even when you are friends, and that doesn't make it a lie when you don't spill your guts. It's not like Savannah tells Marti everything either. The rage she showed towards Marti was more directed towards Dan, and it was unnecessary that Savannah allowed a boy to control her emotions so deeply, casting her out from the rest of the group.

I was truly disappointed in Lewis, how long have they been dating? Marti doesn't need to tell him anything related to what happened between her and Dan. Whenever Marti felt like coming clean, that should be her choice. I didn't like how everyone came down on Marti as though she were the villain, Marti has been nothing but helpful and as open as she could be, but she isn't perfect. As for Alice, I was surprised when she expressed compassion for Marti, things had to look really horrible from that angle. Marti used to be a threat for Alice, but now they appear to be meshing well, I wonder how long that would last though?

Had everyone kept their noses in the right place, they would not have forced Marti to confront Dan, and maybe everything would be fine. Now Marti opened a door she cannot close and now She and Dan have a 'thing'. This all started with Savannah and her jealousy, had she just kept things open and not rush things before actually knowing more about Dan, maybe things would have been different, and Dan would be all hers. Unfortunately for Savannah and Lewis, that door was opened and now I'm hoping for a connection between Dan and Marti, when before I would have preferred them as friends. It seemed poetic the way Dan reacted to his first time; afraid and distant, then realizing that their friendship meant more to him after six months of no communication.

In the beginning we have Dan recording Marti's confession that she wouldn't change after she entered the cheer-house, yet he was the one that changed. Although their friendship remains strong, it's hard to ignore the steamy almost sex scene that happened between them again, at the back of the car. Something about those words that brings them in the mood. They were a bit high after all. I was saddened though, the reasoning behind the stake out was to help out Marti's friend behind bars, and the guys got away. I really wanted her to find something interesting enough that would free him from prison. I only hope they are not back to stage one again.

I was angry with Savannah, she was pretty harsh and irrational, but her relationship with her sister soften her outbursts. It was wonderful how she stood in place for her sister. Even as her sisters teammates saw her as competition, she mastered those moves well. I am sorry that her sister is going to be a teenage parent. We now understand why she was awful to Savannah; after her big sister left, she no longer had someone too talk to. Savannah's mother is coming around greatly and I liked how she stood up to Dan when he came to visit. What was Dan going to say?

After Alice made cheer-leading the new front page, things were made difficult for Vanessa. It turns out Raymond was the real target. It sickened me to know that he gave in to the con, but it showed that he truly cared for Vanessa. I am also beginning to dislike her boyfriend. Where is he? He doesn't seem too concerned about Vanessa's past with Raymond anymore. I guess it doesn't matter that fan appeal is turning heads and he may not be the suitable guy for Vanessa.

Savannah made the right decision. It's terrible that she had to experience lying for the benefit of another, through her sister, in order to understand why Marti didn't tell the whole truth. I still hold the fact that Marti was not responsible, she gave the clear for the both of them, when she could have stopped Dan, she wanted the best for Savannah. The only problem I had was Marti's decision after her and Dan's make-out session. How does she expect for things to go back to them being just friends after that steamy scene? She would be helping everyone if she would be honest, because now more people are involved and she has a responsibility to them. She needs to be honest with Lewis, like how he was with him and Alice, and she needs to stop making up Dan's decisions and leave him to do that for himself. They should have literally finished what they started, if not physically, but emotionally for both their benefits.

Picture Courtesy: tvfanatic.com

Lexa

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Four Stars

Grade B-
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Life Unexpected: Season 2, Episode 8 "Plumber Cracked" Review

2010-11-15T14:55:00.000-08:00

An adult holds it's responsibility. You have to uphold that there are others in your life that may need more than you can rationalize, and you have to understand how your actions may affect others. As a young adult, Lux has her own responsibilities, and I understand why this teacher love-affair would make sense to her, but as for Mr. Daniels, the real adult in the relationship, he should have known better. The running around and the excitement of a secret could bring an adrenaline rush to surface, but Eric should know that Lux as a teen would make irrational decisions. He doesn't have that luxury, not only could he have Lux suspended, but he could lose his license as a teacher. Even as Lux shows more of her irrational side being a teenager, I expected better from her as well.

This episode was filled with a hilarity of plots, mostly surrounding Cate and Ryan's dispute, and Lux with the Mr. Daniels love affair. I applaud Tasha for still being a friend with Lux, but I disapprove of her allowing her place to be meeting grounds for Lux's love affair. It's almost disturbing the way they ran away together and stayed in a hotel. When Tasha covered for Lux after Cate found out about the hotel, they still continued to meet, because Lux said it was okay. I understand what the writers are trying to portray here. They are trying to create the thrill of a perfect love story, but it's not working, Lux and Eric are not well developed for them to be risking so much, after knowing so little about each other.

Cate and Ryan try to mend things, but it's just not working. They argue about the same things and since it's already annoying us, it must be worse off for them being in such a troubled relationship. Cate and Ryan created these problems for themselves, because even though the argument may be about Baze, Baze has moved on and Julia, well she's not even in the picture, so what's the point to this disagreement. I really like their therapist, she puts things into perspective and remains objective at the same time. She doesn't lean to one side over the other, instead she does her job. The exercises she gave to Cate and Ryan, were only exercises because they had to try too hard to get it done. In any relationship there would be that aspect of open honesty, you don't have to spill your guts, but you don't keep everything away either. So instead they moved towards being more miserable than they already were.

The truth surfaces, Julia neglected Ryan and now Cate is a descent substitute for marriage. So was it love, or simply the next best option? Who cares. I am slowly losing interest in this plot. The writers have geared away from the radio station appeal I admired, now focusing more on the confusing relationship battles, and it's not working. Baze and his boss are the only okay ones, but they are too rushed, already they love each other and we didn't get moments outside of make-out sessions to confirm this love the writers threw in our faces. Things are not looking up here.

As for Tasha, I feel really bad for her. Lux let her confess to something she did not do which made Cate take the credit card and some privileges away, and Lux still gets to sneak around. It felt as though Eric revealed to Lux that it was wrong what they were doing to clear his conscience, after Lux persisted, it didn't matter. This just isn't working for me, I actually do not look forward to more installments, probably only to hope that things improve, but it doesn't seem to get better. Where is Kelly anyway? Paige continues to be my favorite character, whatever that's worth.

Picture Courtesy: spoilersguide.com

Lexa

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Two Stars

Grade D-
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Private Practice: Season 4, Episode 8 "What Happens Next" Review

2010-11-15T11:46:00.000-08:00

Compassion, concern, guilt, remorse; these are the emotions most feel after someone has been through a trauma, but Charlotte wanted none of it. Her hardcore shell shielded her sensitive side, she didn't want to show pain, that was only weakness to her. Charlotte's mind has gone past reasoning and stuck with survival. She had to survive her everyday pain, and not even Cooper knew what to do for her. It's amazing that no one could truly come close to the real issue of Charlotte's assault. Addison was left with a burden to carry and only Sheldon understood why Charlotte would give Addison the cold shoulder. Addison probably did essentially remind her of that day, and she would rather avoid all images associated with her pain. Unfortunately, Sheldon did not realize the true meaning behind Charlotte's behavior.

Violet had a lot to relate with Charlotte. This was the first time details surrounding Violet's assault was shared with anyone, but Charlotte wouldn't hear it! It was as though she spent the entire day convincing herself that it was a robbery that's all, because that's what everyone else believed 'a robbery, that's all it was' and she didn't know why the schmuck didn't take the purse and leave! Charlotte confronted Violet, revealing the Katie incident, that she thought at the time could have helped Charlotte, but Charlotte snapped 'no you don't get it Violet!'. She couldn't bear the thought and had it just been a robbery, and a few broken ribs, maybe that speech would have worked. Instead the latter did and Charlotte had to face it, ripping apart her newly reformed office.

Who's idea was it to send Charlotte back to her office? Even if they believed it was just a robbery, she still endured a trauma. It seemed so cruel then. I was glad that Amelia reached out to Charlotte; her willingness to attend meetings showed that she had also succumb to pills to ease her pain. A touching moment for this episode was between Cooper and Charlotte in bed together. Even as Charlotte's scars healed, everything inside her was still bruised, beyond repair and all Cooper could do was lie close enough to let her know he was near, but not close enough to touch her. That was deep, and as Charlotte's fiancee, holding hands was the biggest step for their relationship, although I fear the worst, that she would push Cooper away if she had the chance, but Cooper would put up a huge fight first.

Addison and Sam have proven to be a mature couple and for the first time, 'maybe' Sam could be it for Addison. She was the only one that really knew about Charlotte and it killed her that she couldn't tell Sam. I still believed that telling him the truth during sex wasn't the best time and it painted an awkward picture in the viewers' minds as well. I know as fans we commit names to reveal our favorite pairs, and Addison and Sam want to paint it in our minds that they are AddiSam. I admire the way Sam told Violet to talk to Charlotte, but not telling her why, keeping Addison's promise in tact. They actually work well together. I miss Naomi however, where is she? She should be at least keeping tabs on Maya and with Sam spending all this time with Addison, are they leaving the responsibility of the child in Maya's hands alone?

Cases returned as usual here, this time focusing on religious beliefs and another dilemma between Cooper and Pete. Still it wasn't a center case and all was remedied by the patient at hand. Cooper went to extremes however, involving a judge, because he saw the father as incapable of making rationale decisions. Pete made a persuasive appeal, it was up to the patient and her beliefs, if she didn't believe, then what would be the point of supporting her father's decisions. At least Pete's reasoning made more sense there. As for the girl, she was brave, to sacrifice her life because she believed treatment was too expensive for her family. I was happy they found a new solution to the financial problem enabling to girl to get the necessary treatment in the end.

All that mattered really after the episode ended, was what's gong to happen next. I saw the promos involving the follow up after Sheldon fessed up to the cops, when he discovered the truth and Addison doing what she thought was right in the end, with Sam's help. It's all up to Charlotte now and her willingness to prosecute. How would she handle that? Would her hard surface remain firm, if she breaks down in tears, so would we as an audience.

Picture Courtes: tvfanatic.com

Lexa

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Four and a Half Stars

Grade A
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The Mentalist: Season 3, Episode 8 "Ball of Fire" Review

2010-11-15T06:33:00.000-08:00

Lisbon: "We're his only family"

This case took on a full team effort, including Hightower on the chase to find Jane and bring him home safe. Lisbon was right, his work was his life and his colleagues were his friends and family. I don't know if Jane has any other friends that would tolerate his manipulations. Jane makes it difficult to like him, not that he even cares who likes him. He would also go through lengths for his team and they are the only ones he wouldn't manipulate beyond repair. Rachel however presents an interesting psychotic appeal to the many traumas Jane had to endure on his own. Jane is already troubled, the torture scene where she tried electrocuting Jane was ridiculously pointless, why torture a man who is already tormented everyday.

So the episode begins with Jane finally out of the office in search of something fruitful to eat. Yet the one time he stepped outdoors, was Rachel's lucky break, otherwise she would have to break in to the police station to get him out. I don't understand how Jane thinks completely, but his relationship with Lisbon goes just beyond a concerned friend. Although there hasn't been any real romantic gestures between them, the writers keep their relationship light, leading toward brother and sister or close friendship-relationship status. Jane is comedic in his own sense, he doesn't even realize it sometimes.

When the guy in the hoody comes behind Jane, I thought he was going to rob the vendor, instead he hijacked Jane. As soon as hoody gets destracted, Jane runs away quickly, almost hoping out of the situation; being shoved into a trunk. A gun was truly that persuasive, and Jane finds it difficult to talk himself out of situations like that. I didn't want Jane to get captured, I wanted him to get away. The whole time Jane was captured, it was in the form of a basement creating a gloomy, secluded feeling that did not mesh well. I couldn't remember this Rachel character and I didn't really care, she annoyed me too much. When she brutally murdered her hired kidnapper, leaving hoody for dead, I couldn't understand her intentions, nor could I figure out her motives other than pure delusion.

Poor Lisbon, like a fish out of water. The team worked well together, using Jane's tactics, but Lisbon had to rely on help from a past fiend; Dr. Linus Wagner. I couldn't tell whether Wagner was in line with Rachel's scheme, misleading Lisbon. Why would he want to help Jane? Especially since he would have more motive to want him dead than alive. He confessed to having deranged thoughts that could possibly make Lisbon want him to rot in jail. Did she take him up on his offer? Would Lisbon talk on Wagner's behalf? I hope there is some way for her to get out of it. I would have preferred it, had they figured out Rachel's identity on their own, they had enough to go on.

I don't think I like having Jane in situations like these. When Rachel got the better of Lisbon and cuffed her threatening to burn the building, I couldn't believe how well Jane made up Lisbon with the blood of the lifeless hire. It looked as though he did do something badly, and had Hightower not walked in when she did, the wrong person could have gotten themselves killed.

I still wonder about Kristina, who they have neglected to give us any insight on. It's almost as though they expect us to forget that scene between Jane and Kristina. Jane's clever notes to add some insight gave cause for us to forgive the writers temporarily. I didn't even know Jane had a desk for Van Pelt to look through, he always lies on that couch of his. Just don't have anymore of Mashburn and Lisbon and we should be fine. For now, I appreciated every moment with Rigsby and O'Laughlin; Van Pelt's current boyfriend.

Rigsby: "Don't hurt her"
O'Laughlin: "Or what?"
Rigsby:"Or else you'll have to deal with me!"

Does O'Laughlin love Van Pelt as much as Rigsby? I highly doubt it, but he wants to learn. His response to Rigsby however should have been "I won't hurt her".

Picture Courtesy: tvfanatic.com

Lexa

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Four Stars

Grade B-
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Castle: Season 3, Episode 8 "Murder Most Fowl" Review

2010-11-15T04:20:00.000-08:00

Interestingly enough I found myself glued to the television. Although "Castle" touches lightly on Beckett's past, the series' main focus is on Castle and his life. I find it strange that Castle hasn't been curious enough to dig deeper into Beckett's past, since she clearly wanted to find out who was behind her mother's murder. I am more interested in that aspect, but for now we are faced with a case dilemma; the death of a subway worker, which reveals the kidnapping of a boy. I found Castle and Beckett's teamwork profound; they compliment each other. One of the many reasons I wonder why the writers do not hint romantic gestures between them here and there.

For now, we have Beckett's hunky boyfriend and Castle's absent ex-wife. I could understand why Beckett would move on, but Castle and his ex don't seem like the real deal. It is almost as though he uses his ex to fill a void, that would explain why there is little or no development in their relationship; at least for the viewers. We only get warming moments between Castle and his daughter. I still haven't gotten used to the Alexis and Ashley pair. Leaving his girlfriend with the responsibility of his pet rat was sweet and sour (for Castle mother). I admire how close they have become with the little screen time Ashley gets. We always learn more about Ashley through Alexis, which is crafty on the writers' end.

"Murder Most Fowl" crossed boundaries and subsided along coincidences. The subway worker was my favorite character. Even though we didn't get a live role because of his death, his character spoke highly of him, and he would have done good things had he not been caught in the crossfire. Simply taking pictures of birds should not get you killed the next day. It's saddening how in this world the many people that would have motive to kill, even if you sat back and did the right thing all your life. Although his world did involve an isolated lifestyle. For someone who had such a big heart, his doors were often closed to anyone else, and those who truly knew him, were the ones he went underground with. In reality, Len spent his entire life in the shadows.

The twist was essential for this plot, but I suspected the step-dad had some responsibility in the kidnapping. Sadly it was widely linked around the father's job title, as an all access pass to all floors in an elevator. These guys were deliberate in holding Tyler and his son hostage, making all these impossible demands. Had Tyler done everything these guys asked he would have lost his son and himself. So Len did see the light by saving their lives before he died.

This was a suspense filled episode mixed in with some comedy. Martha to be specific, reminding of the "Three blind mice" tale, minus two, who had Martha literally on the table. Running for a hotel billed by Castle was the little expense Castle had to pay for, bringing light to Martha fun personality. All that makes this series for me are these scenes. I look forward to the development in Alexis' plot and Martha's remarks. I admire Castle's confidence in Beckett to gain some advice on teenage girls, she is like the role model for Alexis. We don't have Castle asking for advice from his ex-wife.

Let's see what new case "Castle" would bring our way, but I also look forward to some Beckett character development, if that's too much to ask for.

Side Note: Could Castle's theory get any more far-fetched? Ryan and Esposito always has a field day with them, always giving Castle a thumbs up. Leave that up to Beckett to cut him off at just the right moments.

Lexa

Picture Courtesy: abc.com

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Four Stars

Grade B+
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Smallville: Season 10, Episode 7 "Ambush" Review

2010-11-08T12:28:00.001-08:00

You know there are those moments where you can't believe the growth in a series? For me, "Smallville" has come a long way. Tom Welling has not only become more muscular to match the man of steel, but the on screen charisma from everyone is overwhelming. Coming closer to the Christmas season, "Smallville" writers have thrown us a treat or two. Lois and Clark secretly undressing each other with their eyes in the morning. Lois seductively cuts a strawberry; which I can't really look at in the same way, coupled with some orange juice. Lois wanted something then and it wasn't breakfast (her words). I smiled intensely during that opening scene, I didn't even pay attention to the war-like scene before. This is a big deal for Clark, he can express his love and utilize his full powers in front of Lois, which becomes even more of a turn on. All Clark's past worries about sex and the danger surrounding the people he loves, just slipped away headed to that porch swing.

Clark: "Lois, the bedroom is upstairs" (Isn't someone being kinky).

The only person that could put in an awkward dent, was The General. Did he not call ahead to let Lois know he was coming over, or was it supposed to be a surprise? Lois' father is hardcore and puts a 'guilty until proven innocent' stamp on everyone he meets. The only people or person that was an exception to that rule was his ex-wife. The General gnawed at Clark throughout the entire episode. After seeing Lois half-naked on top of Clark, that would have triggered some military defenses in his head, yet the sex topic didn't surface after that revealing scene. Lucy, to top it all off wasn't a big help. I remember a certain phone call Lois made to Lucy, while under the influence of Kryptonite, announcing her engagement to Clark. Instead of screams and girl chatter about how hunky Clark was, Lucy was the downer. She not only gives him a cold shoulder, but seduces Clark (Was that for Los' benefit?).

Lucy herself has her own issues, I didn't fully grasp her true sense of character previously, so I do not know her problems with her father. It seems as though The General's girls have responded to rules and commands. Was there truly love behind it all? After his wife passed away, it caused a dent in his heart and the only way he can truly connect with his daughters was by enlisting a stratified duty arrangement. He does love Lois and Lucy, he also wants the best for them both. I dislike the fact that Lucy planted one on Clark. I looked forward to Clark's reaction to the kiss, and I expected him to pull Lucy away, before Lois arrived. The kiss still felt meaningless, more of a scheme and I enjoyed Lois bashing her sister instead of Clark.

This episode was definitely Clois centered, as the writers are taking their time developing Lois and Clark before they explored other arcs. "Ambush" particularly explored a side to Lois we are not used to seeing. Lois was more reserved, obedient and walked on egg shells when faced with her father. These were sides to Lois that seemed unusual, and Clark noticed how much of an affect The General had on Lois. Her father's hardcore appearance has a lot to do with the type of person Lois is, as he often has his moments of surrender. I enjoy the bonding moment where Clark and the General made amends. Somehow his Blur bashing was turned around.

When The Blur takes on a personal favor and saves your daughter, one has to change their perspectives on things.

Does this mean the General would believe that all vigilantes would have The Blur's honor? No, but he also caught on to Clark's secret identity. He hinted many times that he was talking to Clark and The Blur at the same time, and Clark did not try to defend himself. Instead Clark had a personal question to ask him, did it have something to do with 'hand in marriage'? I hope so, the way Lois and Clark express themselves, it might as well be the kind of love that involves a ring on Lois' finger. Maybe they could try it for real this time.

I am grateful that the writing for this series have been creative, and week after week, I look forward to "Smallville". The moments where Lois lowered her inhibitions in front of her father, but took that final moment to stand up to him, showed growth in her character. I admired her for that strength. The pen that Lucy believed to be helping her father, but was really a bomb that almost killed Lois, was sloppy on behalf of the Suicide Squad leader; Rick Flag. They placed all their trust on Lucy getting the job done for them. I am glad they didn't succeed, but at the same time, what was their end game? It all worked out in the end for Clark, who was integrated into Lois' family. I appreciated the Lois and Lucy squabble, but I felt at some points, Lois was a bit harsh to her sister. Everyone got a make up scene except Lois and Clark in the end, but I guess that didn't matter. Clark scrubbing the floors with a toothbrush was hilarious, but Lois telling her father how much she loved Clark with a tear, was beautiful.

On the Tess and Oliver topic, I saw a spark between them. I remembered the moments they were together in the past and if they were to do it all over, with a fresh start, I believe they would prevail. Oliver just could not see the sudden light inside of Tess, even after he brought her on the team. He is still keeping a close eye on her. I believe he just got irritated because it seemed as though Tess were replacing Chloe, but Tess put her own twist to things. she still manages to get the job done. I liked how Tess discovered the tags on them, I found it scary that others knew Clark's identity unaware to him, it puts Clark at a great disadvantage. I am glad Tess pulled through in the end. She and Oliver needed to have that bonding moment. I still wonder what happened to Lex though, is he locked up? That would certainly be revealed in the future, we know we have not seen the last of him.

As for everything else, this was yet another interesting episode. Things are in the settling down stage, where the writers try to get us used to the pace, then gives a bang of an episode. I loved every moment of "Ambush", some more than others.

Picture Courtesy: tvmedia.ign.com

Lexa

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Four and a Half Stars

Grade A-
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Hellcats: Season 1 Episode 8 "Back of a Car " Review

2010-11-05T18:17:00.000-07:00

Who did it in "Back of a Car"?

I didn't think once that Marti was Dan's old flame, and he could still be holding a torch for her. There were many unanswered questions, we were given a huge blow when Marti and Dan indirectly confessed to sleeping with each other. What went wrong either way? It's not like they stopped being friends. We still have moments between Dan and Marti that prove that their connection goes beyond friendship, it could lead to a brother sister relationship. Still, when Dan revealed that his first experience was also behind a pick up truck or a car in this case, Savannah's heart was broken.

I believed Savannah stressed too much on the sex topic and frustrated herself into a difficult, possibly heartbreaking decision. Marti and Lewis cuddled up in bed together, while Dan was setup on the floor, was too much for Savannah to handle. She just needed to relax, Marti and Lewis have had their sexual frustrations relieved and are able to cohabitate in the same bed, but Savannah and Dan are different, because has her principles set about sex and I respected her for them. Everything could have been easier had both guys remained on the floor, but nothing is truly that simple. Savannah had to make a decision; whether to uphold her principles on behalf of her strong faith or give into the pressure of an already frustrated teenage mind, facing sex with her peers regularly.

I didn't expect "Hellcats" to take this relationship centered turn. Their attention has drifted farther from the cheer-leading and more into the high-school drama bits. Savannah is a decent; slightly high-strung individual, and I had my doubts surrounding her losing her virginity and her reasoning behind it. She stresses strongly on her faith and even if Marti had her mixed feelings on the matter, she cared about Savannah, she didn't want her to make a decision based on a rushed moment. Savannah's jealousy of Dan and Marti's relationship could have encouraged the obsession, and I am not too unhappy that she found out about the Dan and Marti relationship. It did hurt watching Savannah leave the hotel room in tears.

Usually having sex would be natural for Dan, but for some strange reason, he had his doubts as well. Being a "player" type could explain why he and Marti broke up, and he gave Marti enough control so that he would not go to the hotel with Savannah. Were they involved romantically before? Wanda took a leap telling Dan about Marti's Diary, but refused to reveal details? She opened a can of worms and told them to stay put; cool metaphor(?). Wanda comes off as the cool mom who tries to do everything right, but ends up saying the wrong things, that make her out to be not such a good mom. Poor Lewis was oblivious to everything going on.

I was surprised when Alice and Jake was revealed to be a couple. After her fallout with Lewis, I believed nothing would make her let go from her old flame for him. We also haven't heard much about Alice's arm, has it healed completely? Her feud with Marti is almost non-existent and the writers have chosen to focus on her relationship with Jake completely. The idea of the football wife was cheesy at best, but Alice ruled in defending her cheerleader honor. Her football husband isn't worth it standing up to his coach, so why is Alice with him? The quarterback title can only go so far. I found that Alice already acted as the wifey, walking about in her lingerie and arguing about her husband's bossy like coach.

Alice, in her own sense, is sensitive beneath her tough exterior. She teared up and gave in to the coaches demands, which I found to be very unlike her. I expected her to stand up to him, instead she waited for her boyfriend to say something, he was already intimidated. Well, her comeback was well articulated, grabbing the reporter in the midst of their annual anniversary party. Vanessa, might I had, had a very interesting voice. I didn't expect her to sing and dance so musically. The "Hellcats" cast has a talented crew of singers, it wouldn't be before long Ashley Tisdale takes the spotlight. I miss Marti's focus on law, especially since it is her center, cheer-leading usually takes over her life. That laptop scene with the guy in her room was mysterious. I like a little mystery, but what was the guy doing in a cheerleader house, wouldn't anyone notice a strange person entering Marti's room?

Overall, an episode filled with ups and downs, tipsy turvey relationship drama, mixed in with a twist of entertainment. Lewis and his funky fro' brought 'back in time' into a new spin.

Picture Courtesy: spoilersguide.com

Lexa

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Four Stars

Grade B-
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Nikita: Season 1 Episode 8 "Phoenix" Review

2010-11-05T17:32:00.000-07:00

Talk about bad ass! Nikita can kick some people to the curb can she! This series has gone past trying to prove itself as a credible series, forming it's own identity. I am actually proud how far Nikita has stretched and warmed itself to our hearts, well at least our hard core urges to kick some butt! Learn a few moves along the way, crafty!

The moments I look forward to the most are Michael/Nikita scenes. There hardly are enough for us to get any insight into their relationship, if they had any at all. Michael refuses to kill Nikita each time they are faced together, which means there is a back-story to this hesitance to pulling the trigger. When Nikita fell for someone outside Division, that must have meant that her relationship with Michael was complicated. Could she have also had a past with Michael before she fell in love?
I am happy to make question references with this series. It succeeds in maintaining a level of mystery I enjoy, leaving room for potential fans to fill in the blanks. If we guess right, but there are surprising moments writers throw our way, making us think a little deeper into the plot.

In an article "The 4-Episode Test: Judging the New Fall Shows" I read on TV.com, Nikita's ratings continued to grow on a weekly basis. TV.com criticized "Nikita" for its portrayal of Alex's past, citing a "not that interesting" back-story. On the other hand, I believe it gave Alex leverage over the person she is now, that she can work to avenge her past and make a better future. Alex is a character I grew to admire and "Nikita" seeks to add layers that make her seem closer to human, rather than just a fictional character.

The storyline was beyond sensational, I feel for the hardcore moments and Nikita as the biker chick racing to a woman's rescue. I worry sometimes about Nikita using Alex, since it has not been established whether they have a fall guy, if in case Division suspected another rat on Nikita's behalf. The scene where Alex broke into medical to give Nikita the antidote, was loyal, but Alex could have easily been caught had she not been careful. Alex honestly loves Nikita, I can't put a label yet to their relationship; be it friendship, sisterhood or combat partners, they work well together at deception. The only people they can truly trust are each other.

The Russian spy, falling in love with someone outside her mission was closely linked to Nikita's past. Almost as though she could have related with this woman. The only difference being, she was pregnant, working for the wrong side and well caught in the end, suffering a brutal murder. Nikita risks her life everyday for the better of mankind, but could she really do it on her own? Even if she has Alex, there is only so long she can maneuver Division without getting caught. Look at how easily she got caught by the Russians when she believed them to be grieving parents of the deceased. Congratulations writers for that clever twist, we knew something was wrong the moment Nikita saw those pictures, but the two parents gunning to have Nikita killed ... that was a bad ass scene!

Who ever crafted Nikita to do those moves, whether Maggie Q did her own stunts, but it was so ^**#^#% unbelievable! Alex had her touchy scenes as well; that was one good kiss for Thom, especially since it was fake-ish. She did want to use him to get the antidote out for Nikita, but it seemed so real-ish. I know Alex has a mission and she would not let anyone distract her, but she can't help who her heart may take interest in. Maybe that was her treat. All this talk about Alex and Thom, but where is Jaden who had her eyes on him and constantly got into fights with Alex for him? It is odd that we haven't seen her around in a while. She is listed as a regular cast member, but her storyline officially has no real arc.

As for everything else, we finally got to see more of Roan; the cleaner, who Nikita beat fiercely in "The Guardian". He is just as handy as Nikita and their fight scene lead to Nikita's side based on pure luck had he not taken the plunge. He has no emotion, except rage perhaps and is the most intriguing character. One call from Percy and he is there within seconds, dragging a body in a dustbin none-the-less. What are his limits? I enjoyed firmly the moments where he was one step behind Nikita, close to catching her at the Senator's mansion. He was forced to clean up where the Senator did the dirty with the spy (what a profession?). Yet that phone line receiver was cleverly done by Nikita and discovered. She jumped off that roof top with such skills; was that a stunt writers -well done!

I look forward for more, and don't hesitate to outdo yourselves writers, we're not holding you back. More chair scenes where Nikita was in captivity, although I despised the guy that put her there, I look forward to emotions where we feel like kick boxing the villain for Nikita to flee. This episode places Nikita in the Top 5 Favorites for me. Thumbs up for that stellar red dress on Nikita with the Senator and for slipping through Michael's finger tips - again. I believe Michael lives to see Nikita another day.

Picture Courtesy: bscreview.com

Lexa

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Five Stars

Grade A+
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Life Unexpected: Season 2, Episode 7 "Camp Grounded" Review

2010-11-05T17:31:00.000-07:00

Why is Cate arguing with someone every-time we tune into "Life Unexpected"? I almost resent scenes where Cate and Ryan are screened together, because they are always at each others throats. In the early days of this series, when it was new, Lux was the center of attraction with her life as a foster child, suffering the spoils of the system. That held my interest for a long time, I looked forward to scenes with Lux and her past life, having problems fitting into the real world with a family; a mother and father that loves her. Reactions to this new life could have been written either way; either Lux grasps the concept of living life with a family quick and efficient or she has her own problems along the lines. The writers chose the latter and the problems Lux became faced with was fitting into school, bouncing up meanbie girls and boyfriend problems. Those seem like typical teenage dilemmas, not that Lux wouldn't face them along the lines, but I hoped for more rebuff.

In the early season the grasp on the social service system was lightly touched on. Occasional clips of Lux as a child was exposed, then the custody of biological parents was embraced. Things took a slow pace afterward; we had mention of Lux stealing a bong to help Baze, Lux partying and then prom night with Bug. There was not much creativity when it came to the psychological pain Lux would have endured all those years. I expected a few scenes where Lux would run away, because even though she loved Cate and Baze, she couldn't handle living a normal life, because it didn't exist in her book. Keeping Bug around kept "Life Unexpected" affiliated with the foster system, but pulling him away made Lux seem like any average teenager.

Now Lux centers her world around this teacher love affair that comes off really wrong. It is a soft storyline to boot since most series has taken up this story arc. I find myself becoming uninterested in moments where Lux and Mr. Daniels are in the same scene together. Eric Daniel's character needs a little fine tuning. As soon as he finds out about Lux as a student, he backs off and becomes cold, after a few episodes he confesses to Lux how much he wants to be near her and it's almost pathetic the way those scenes were delivered. I only hope someone else would discover this 'off' love affair quickly, if not, Tasha needs to say something now!

"Camp Grounded" was an episode used to get all the cast members together so that they get let off some steam, exposing all their issues to the open public. Cate and Ryan needed to have that breaking moment in their marriage, Lux needed to have that thrilling teacher-student relationship, Tasha's relationship with Jones needed to be explored, Baze's relationship with his boss, well you know where this leads. Firstly, what was Baze thinking using the bus as a prop for sex? Did he prepare for the possibility that a student might walk in, just as Cate did? I feel sorry for whoever sat in the seat they did it in, on the trip back home.

This was a sex filled episode, but did they have to show Ryan's sex scene along with Baze's? I couldn't even watch the screen from all that mean sex Ryan threw Cate's way, then to end it by saying they were possibly broken up. Jerk! Frankly Cate and Ryan annoy me so much that I find myself busy during their scenes, I don't ever pay attention really. It is always the same conversation over and over... "Ryan I love you, but Cate you're still in love with Baze, Baze is the father of my child, yeh but you still have a flame for him, yup Baze is the problem, Ryan I love you, let's have sex, I'm angry with you Cate, Baze again, Julia now, who is Julia?, Julia is my ex, she was pregnant, WHAT!, why didn't you tell me, but you hesitated with Baze, BAZE AGAIN!!!!!". It is a recurring cycle with them and their relationship is based on regurgitated arguments, with the inability to truly connect as a real couple. Do they even love each other? All they do is have sex (fine!) but where are the romantic elements, they don't have dinner together or spend time just talking, they are always at each others throats. I knew this would happen since they just jumped into marriage without even thinking about love. It's sad really and a pain to watch!

As for Baze, I like his relationship with his boss, but they jumped into bed too fast within seconds of realizing they had feelings for each other. Everything is fast paced with this series, that you don't get the chance to settle in and like characters. I used to like Tasha for her influence with Lux, but ever since she shacked up with Jones, she became ordinary. The only character that holds my interest even now is Paige. He tom-boyish charm and sexy wit, fearing nothing was cool. Her taste in guys however have been slim. I fear the worst for this series, especially if it keeps up borderline arcs with dwindling room for growth.

Picture Courtesy: tvfanatic.com

Lexa

____________________

Two and a Half Stars

Grade D
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The Mentalist: Season 3, Episode 7 "Red Hot" Review

2010-11-05T16:53:00.000-07:00

Lisbon and billionaire Walter Mashburn... why *cries*?

It was as though Jane set them up, continuously putting Mashburn's crush in her face. He practically told Mashburn to give Lisbon a go in the final scene, but why? I always had high hopes for a Lisbon/Jane union however superficial that may be. I even have a huge Jisbon shipper fan base backing me up here, so why did they ruin it for me... them. This one night stander with a billionaire was unlike Lisbon and the chemistry between them was weak. The only amusing part was the explosion scene where Mashburn saved his own life by asking Lisbon out on a date. It was cute for the while, but then it got old and the almost kiss scene between them when the murderer was almost revealed, was a relief for me. I thought Mashburn's crazy ex should have gotten a gold star for that outstanding performance. I wonder why they broke up?

Elsa Struven: "Coorperate, so you can tell Walter what a hero you are, how you save him from me and then he kiss you again non? That is what you want bitch! No, go suck your own face!"

I think she was practically off by insulting Lisbon "You're totally wrong for him, so little and bony!". Glad Jane came to Lisbon's defense "Well she does have a damaged intensity that some people might find attractive". That was showing Elsa, Jane, it's her intense personality most men go for! I only hoped Jane was referring to himself as well.

I just couldn't come to terms that Elsa was obsessing over a guy like Mashburn. He didn't have that allure and the only appealing terms to him was his money. I still remember Currie Graham (Mashburn) from "Men in Trees" and he wasn't the fancy stud most women go for!

Jane's funny moments would probably be him yelling for help after the explosion and dipping into a bush heap while being shot at. Ah! but for the most part of this review I went on about the relationships, yet the surprising faked death didn't once cross my mind, until afterward. Imagine his favorite toupee tipped Jane off! Having a wife act as Lady Macbeth according to Van Pelt, was a kind gesture to Shakespeare. Van Pelt and Risgby have their on and off moments that I look forward to each episode.

This was yet another case and no reference made to Kristina or how vested is Jane into her abduction. Viewers are left guessing at every stop.

Image Courtesy: tvfanatic.com

Lexa

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Four Stars

Grade B-
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Castle: Season 3, Episode 7 "Almost Famous" Review

2010-11-05T15:55:00.000-07:00

Usually I anticipate Castle on a weekly basis, but now the story lines have been filled with discontinuous themes unrelated to Beckett's past. I have been waiting for a hint from the writers each episode, and ever since Beckett was betrayed by her close friend (the bounty hunter) in "Under the Gun", that was as much information fans were updated on. I appreciate the case with strip tease cop, gone business rogue, but we all know know how well Castle and Beckett could solve cases. So why try to prove it to us over and over again, repeating storyline after storyline. There is always the murder victim, the discovery of the lifeless body, Castle, Beckett and Lanie show up, murder escalates into a wild storyline and murderer is captured. Fans have solved murder cases even before most culprits are revealed. So I expect a bit more from Castle.

The previous episode "3XK" was a brilliant boost, but writers revert to their old strategies with this installment and fans could only tolerate so much redundancy. For me, in the opening of Season 3 Castle was let off the hook easy after he ditched Beckett, before she had the chance to reveal her true feelings for Castle. As much as the Castle/Ex-wife plot has some interest, it seems almost superficial. I preferred Beckett's hunk of a boyfriend, but there are still moments between Beckett and Castle that I keep hoping the writers would exploit. Beckett's mother's case has remained unresolved and there have not been any references made to either plot-lines. So fans are left hoping that the writers would throw a bone, but remain hungry in the end.

The cougar bit relating with the stripper cop was a stretch. I liked how they threw us off-guard in the beginning by throwing suspicion on one of the girls he stripped teased for. I expected the worst for Beckett when she knocked on the door, yet a hungover woman after a huge bachelorette party of some sort, surprised me. The stripper cop did finish his last strip tease. We still couldn't grasp exactly what kind of party it was. The writers tried so hard to throw us off the scent with the stripper side, that it made me uninterested in the lawyer as the culprit and the whole complicated business plot with money and Et cetera...

Castle has had its ups and downs, but I look forward for a continuous spin this season. Alexis' role to follow in her grandmother's footsteps as an actress was amusing. Probably the most successful storyline that has been consistent. For a teaser, the actual strip scenes with Becket was worth a booster. Who knew a cop could be such a turn on, Castle uses that title to his advantage every chance he gets! Did you sense a jealous Beckett when Castle was surrounded by all the ladies?

Lexa

____________

Three Stars

Grade C-
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Private Practice: Season 4, Episode 7 "Did You Hear What Happened to Charlotte King?" Review

2010-11-05T06:52:00.004-07:00

'Did You Hear What Happened to Charlotte King?'

A heart beats at a rate far beyond the normal rate, so much that one gasps for air. Out of fear, depression, hurt, worry, there is that feeling of trauma which leaves pity, regret and then there is this episode. Shonda Rhimes took a plunge by manipulating such emotions to an already sensitized audience. Did anyone else feel that warm gasp in the throat, that knot that you couldn't get rid of in that opening scene? While Charlotte's world was ripped beyond repair, another world revolved around her and everyone else existed, it seemed so impossible that something so sudden could sneak up and bite you, breaking a few bones in the process. Pete's expression after Charlotte crawled out of her shattered office, a place she could not return to. Pity, shame, comfort; expressions they both exchanged in the hallways. This was a Private Practice that would stay in our memories, appealing to every emotion, compassion at the top of the list.

"Cursed", that was one word Violet described the situation. She couldn't bring herself to see Charlotte, not in that condition. While the writers chose to screen the moments right after Charlotte's assault, instead of her recovery, we as an audience had to shed tears as there was no room to breathe. The intensity of each scene was crucial, sadly overwhelming. Even as Cooper was having a pre-bachelor night at a bar, there was not room to laugh at his drunken jokes and Amelia come-on's. Only when Violet appeared distraught with her son, delivering the worst news any future husband could bear, could he gather himself, ready to fall on his knees and beg for the clock to turn, and for him to be there for the woman he loves; his future wife.

Amidst all the fear and closed curtains, a sideline story, another world circulating around this depressed situation existed. A man with a blood stained shirt, mentally deranged and unknown to Sheldon, the person that may have slipped through his fingers. We connected the pieces and couldn't feel any emotion during those Sheldon scenes, except for him to get the call about Charlotte, and connect the pieces on his own. Instead, nothing happened, the man slipped through the system and all for what, because the woman he mentioned told him "to wait his turn!". How do we as an audience react to such a statement, this deranged man sitting in the station interrogation room? His smirk as he confessed haunting our thoughts and depressing ourselves because Sheldon, oblivious to Charlotte's world was in for a whole load of pain. Not only was this fiend released, but the woman Sheldon feared was assaulted, was right under his fingers and he was gone! Just like that!

This was another emotional turn for fans. We remember the Violet's encounter with Katie, Addison and Sam's car accident; with a woman whose stomach was ripped to her death after giving birth, Maya and Dell, but this has topped the scales that emotionally cripple fans to the brink of deep sadness. We may hope for a recovery, but like Charlotte said, she would not be getting enough sleep and neither would the fans for her sake. Even as Amelia had unrelated scenes with Charlotte, they connected and Amelia's heart break was shown. Addison has to bear the guilt, and unknown to viewers was the reasoning behind Addison's hesitance to answer Charlotte's burning question, did Addison face any trauma situations like the one, or maybe a close friend? Sam was there for Addison, but he didn't really visit Charlotte, and he had only hoped that Addison was not in that situation herself. Was Sam insensitive to say that?

Cooper was the most heartbreaking as Charlotte had to comfort him; the irony.

Where is Naomi? White's financial disputes do not matter as much and Naomi should have shown her face, if even for a few seconds. There is not much that can be said in situations like this, but we can be heartbroken like the rest of the group and possibly hold hands and comfort. Hope for some kind of unexpected glory, that Charlotte would make it out. Even as she walked down the halls and Cooper helped her suit up for home, their faces were enough. The nosy nurses in the beginning could not compare to the unforseen misery in that final scene. KaDee Strickland kept firm as an actress in creating this character. The cast complimented each other.

In "All in the Family" there was preparation for tears, and it leaves you with that gripping pull in your stomach and a clasp in your jaw, a pull in your throat and heavy eye lids. I really don't know what to think of this one Shonda, I was frustrated and depressed. There are no more words that could describe.

Pictures Courtesy: spoilersguide.com & tvfanatic.com

Lexa

_____________________

Four and a Half Stars

Grade A-
_____________________

Private Practice: Season 4, Episode 6 "All in the Family" Review

2010-11-02T08:57:00.001-07:00

We had the Addison disagreement, the curious Violet and the Sam and Addison dispute, but when Cooper and Charlotte had their disagreement over a child, it seemed measly compared to the trauma she endured during that final moment. That final scene would forever remain scared in our memories, and even worse for Charlotte as she would have to live through that terrible experience for the rest of her life. No one should have to suffer that much pain! The writers sprung it on us during that final scene, just as how Charlotte was surprised that a predator was lurking around her office. The last we would expect as fans, was for this to happen. Our hearts sank in that moment I am certain. I remembered reading articles that one of our beloved characters would have faced this situation, but I put it to the back of my mind, and overtime I forgot the article I read, but after this incident no other story line made sense to mention. Nothing would ever be able to compare to what a dysfunctional person had in store for Charlotte and she was left helpless. No one should ever go through that!

Even as I glimpse scenes from "Did you hear what happened to Charlotte King?", the next episode would leave scars and I dread the moment, but at the same time, I hope for Charlotte's strong will to carry her through. It would be even satisfactory for Cooper to gut the wicked grunt of a human being that would mutilate another like an animal.

Violet had her share of trauma's in her life, and could be the closest that Charlotte could lean on. Her dispute with Pete and his troubled family life was sincere. A wife that wanted to know more about her husband, how beautiful, and I actually grew to admire Pete and Violet's relationship. Addison and Sam had their disagreement as Addison refused sex from Sam for his decision towards a patient. If it meant anything, I believed Addison should not have called the cops on a husbands deranged mind over his comatose wife. That was even based on perception. There were other methods and I appreciated the counseling sessions with Sheldon. Still Addison acted the most concerned, and while she made the reference to Sam to have his way with her while she laid helplessly, I smiled, but frowned on the notion. I enjoyed Lucas' Halloween moments with his family. In addition, there was a tribute to a Prison Break character, who played the HIV positive patient, this was indeed a different role for him.

Yet as I think back to those mentioned moments, my mind shifts over to Charlotte and I grieve. All we as fans can do is watch in dread and gasp. This is a situation that is very popular in the society we live in and to have it happen to one of our beloved characters! We can pelt things at the television screen and scream to the top of our lungs for Charlotte, hoping someone would hear for her sake, but it all comes down to the writers and their capability to deliver a moving story line like this one, that is so sensitive. I dread the next episode, as I prepare for an hour of tears.

Pictures Courtesy: tvfanatic.com

Lexa

________

Five Stars

Grade A-
________

Smallville: Season 10, Episode 6 "Harvest" Review

2010-11-01T18:17:00.000-07:00

Harvesting the true essence of Smallvile. Setting the highest of all standards, Smallville places another hit in the mix. Such quality doesn't seem to surprise me anymore. The writers have taken the majority of the first season to explore the Lois and Clark connection and I am loving it. Although I miss characters like Chloe (Allison Mack), the writing has made Clois appeal to all our desires. Watching Clark glow in front of Lois, especially the moments where he constantly referred to Lois as his girlfriend, was gold for me. I honestly cannot get enough of this roll Smallville is on, as I anticipate "Ambush", the following thrilling installment which refreshingly includes Lois' father.

Finally "dum da dum dummmm" the moment we have all waited for, well at least I have anticipated the moment where Lois and Clark consummate their relationship. Although I had hoped for it to be right after a romantic evening together, but I guess pitch forks and being burned to the steak, could be a mood booster as well. I'm guessing this only means the beginning and Smallville fans would be in for a long ride before the completion of the series. Still I hope that this series would live on, if not on television, but in our hearts. It has earned the right to give true meaning to fans, and I imagine future fan-fiction, being plastered all over the internet.

Tom Welling (Clark) looked extra hunky in "Harvest". The plot line surrounding the episode was the essence of a ghost town, looking for their latest sacrifice; Lois unfortunately fell prey to their misguided beliefs. Although I liked the plot, it still seemed like a filler episode, the only advancements in plot-lines we got were the Lois and Clark revelation and the rebirth of Lex Luthor. For the Luthor part, I truly anticipated a surprise Michael Rosenbaum appearance, I missed his presence on Smallville.

From the moment we discovered the blue Kryptonite, we knew that this town was not as it seemed and the little girl was not as innocent as she portrayed with the lemonade in the beginning (I mean, who walks around selling lemonade in a deserted place?). Something was definitely up with that girl and I kept wondering as she mysteriously appeared and Clark got a flat tire (convenient), where were her parents?. Lois should not have gone anywhere with that girl, especially since she knew Clark would have been back in two seconds, so why she leave? Her fight with Clark was more playful than serious anyway. Still I appreciated the moments before the flat tire and the twenty questions Lois asked Clark regarding his Kryptonian legacy. Lois seemed so enchanted by his legacy. The mere fact that she was dating "The Blur" and the Clark Kent she loved in one package, made it worthwhile for her.

I believe Lois spent her entire life a free spirit. She didn't anticipate falling in love with anyone, and she was more interested in traveling the world than becoming a reporter. What I admired about Lois in the past, was how we see her transformation and how easily she learns new things about her life. It is almost like reality; we begin one journey and end at new destination we didn't know were possible. Here we have Lois living her dream and being a beautiful woman. It is somewhat inspiring; as she learns, we learn at the same rate!

As far as the storyline goes, it was an interesting plot. We can now see Clark in his human form, just as vulnerable as Lois. I resented the local officer for knocking him out just because he heard some bells ringing - so what! The town that no one is supposed to know about (so they killed everyone that walked by!). It shows the capability of the mind when trapped in a situation for a long time. perception is key in discovering how to live a life, and how to lead a people and was the little girl's father leading his people astray? Maybe he had the right idea, but the wrong concept, who knows? Anything that involved killing Lois was a bad plan for me. Still when Clark dove to save Lois and have the burning flame scorch his back, to save her life, his love for her was felt. It consumed the entire moment when he picked after she blurted out "This is a sign" to the people who stared at Clark as though he were a god.

Lois truly praised Clark in that moment. She went on and on long enough before Clark sped of with her. This was indeed a simple episode with deeper meaning rooted through the surface, and I enjoyed this piece.

On a side note, another revelation would be the four year growth in Alexander -!whoops!- now known as Lex Luthur. Tess' love for Alexander blinded her from his flaws. As a boy he may have been innocent, but a couple of years later he sprung his true colors. It reminds you of how the original Lex was. Did Tess truly believe that Lex would make a perfect boy opposite to the person he turned out to be in the end? She resented the notion of having her little boy locked up, as she loved Alexander like a son, but as Tess formed an alliance with "The Blur", she has an obligation to her team to do what's best for the world. I enjoyed the older look-a-like to the boy Tess loved, when she felt like a mother. Still, why didn't Tess save the cure for Alexander? It could possibly stop his growth, but could it have also removed those dreams Lex planted in him? Who knows? We certainly wouldn't, and I doubt Tess could take it upon herself to kill the boy she raised, even if it was for a short time.

I admire Tess' growth as well, she has transformed and her beauty is shown in her good nature. I have high hopes for her, but she didn't need to bend down to Alexander as though she were begging him, it showed off her weakness through him. The final scene where Alexander shaved off his hair, was that just instinct? Must he look like the Luthor replica, or couldn't he appreciate his hair for once. It solidified Lex Luthor's official birth, and it meant that Clark had another enemy to battle.

Picture Courtesy: static.tvguide.com

Lexa

______________________

Four and a Half Stars

Grade A-
______________________

Notice: Regular Reviews are way Overdue!

2010-10-31T14:20:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, it seems I have taken up reviewing more than my fair share to handle at the moment. I simply love so many series that I want to give my opinion on, but if I keep up at this rate I would not be able to post to you guys on a regular weekly basis. I can either divide my review shows with other parties or cut back on some reviews like "Life Unexpected", "Parenthood", to name a few.

I am already behind on "Private Practice" and given this recent episode I have already drafted some solid reviews. My boss has already given me a hectic workload and I am struggling to finish reviews for posting. I thank all who are patient and I would like to apologize now, among my many other apologies on Twitter.

"The Mentalist", "Castle" among other reviews that are way overdue would be completed, but it should take another two weeks. I thank you all for your patience. Upon posting I would make reviewing our latest favorites regularly.

Lexa

Smallville: Season 10, Episode 5 "Isis" Review

2010-10-24T18:45:00.004-07:00

I almost find it unbelievable that there is a series that cause us to fall in love with Superman all over again. We know Clark and the person he is going to become, so why is the journey filled with such mystery? We are always guessing, on our toes, uncertain of the destination and losing ourselves into the way Superman discovers his wings.

Many had their doubts about this episode, given the revelation that Lois was going to be possessed by 'Isis'. Yet I wasn't quick to judge. The writers have given us this drug that doses us on a Smallville high. I keep expectations up and the standard of delivery mirrors my expectations. There was an overwhelming response to last week's episode of "Homecoming". I couldn't believe how much I loved it either, but Erica Durance's performance in "Isis" was solid.

"Isis" had it purpose in Clark's defining moment, even though Clark had initially decided to tell Lois his secret, he still had his doubts. He confided in Oliver to establish that his decision was not purely influenced by his visit to the future. Yet when he told Isis on the roof, it seemed like he wanted to get it off his chest, rather than tell the woman he loved. I was actual happy he had his trial telling Isis first.

It surprised me that Lois got her hands on the amulet when she was in Egypt and had not discovered it since she returned to Metropolis. It was worth it however, watching Lois counsel herself into getting Clark to fess up.

Lois: "Do you remember when the Blur and I kissed?"
Lois (Impression of Clark): "How could I Lois I wasn't there?"
Lois: "...but you were, because I could tell it was you from the kiss!"
Lois (Impression of Clark): "Does it change the way you feel about me?"
Lois: "When I realized that the man I loved and the hero I admired were the same person, it was everything just fit into place... I'm going to start with coffee and donuts"

All Lois needed was some mirror therapy moments. We can all admit we've done it at times; while prepping for that job interview, or proposing to someone you love, steps like that take time and we feel as though we need to prep ourselves before we take a big leap. Lois was taking her leap and both Lois and Clark left their homes with the hope of breaking the exact news to each other. Clark may have done his Lois impression, but I think Lois nailed Clark's own! Did you think so?

Everything about Durance's impression of Lois Lane brings about joy and fun, yet at the same time feisty, and willing to do anything to get the job done. We saw a bit of feisty Lois when faced with Cat. I actually felt a bit annoyed by Cat this round. She was irritable without cause and since Lois returned to reclaim her seat, it was not established where Cat was going to sit, or who her new partner was? I wonder if Tess did the hiring there?

I fell for Lois' outfit that mirrored the essence of the Greek wear and fit well on Isis' character. Isis' story was heartbreaking, I usually find myself tuning out during the long speeches of the 'why exactly I am doing this', but I couldn't help but listen. Lois' voice was changed, I am not certain if that was completely Durance, or the impact of a computer interface, but Durance sold it. Even as Lois spoke to Clark as Isis, he was able to profess his love for Lois again. When Isis was willing to sacrifice two lives to revive her love, something about what Clark's conversation with Isis seemed puzzling.

Isis: "You would no risk the world for her?"
Clark: "Not for such a selfish reason"
Isis: "Then do not pretend what you feel is love!"

We know that Clark loves Lois, but to what extent? It was selfish of Isis to risk tarnishing a world because of her love, but does that mean she was blinded by it? Isis was in agony because she could not be with the man she loved. I was still conflicted about that statement. Clark was willing to do anything for Lois, but Lois would not ask Clark to ruin the lives of millions so that they could be together. It is like Clark and Lois share the beauty of mankind and the value of life in common, but Isis and Osiris couldn't care about the world that surrounded them and were lost because of their love. Clark was right it was selfish of Isis, but that changed nothing for her and she was willing to kill the woman he loved for the sake of revenge, had Clark not acted quickly enough.

Lois said so many things about love in the form of Isis, yet it was uncanny the way she and Isis were opposites. Isis was able to read the value of hearts and it amazed me how well she read Oliver.

Isis: "Your heart is brave, but I can see it belongs to a lonely soul."

That could only reflect his feelings for Chloe. Isis was not alone in depicting Oliver's true feelings. The writers deliberately chose to have Tess during this episode where love was definitely in the air. Tess has little love in her life, and there is no one that would care if anything happened to her. I didn't understand why Tess cried as though she had a broken heart after Clark and Oliver trusted her enough to join the team. I believe it had everything to do with Oliver. Tess admitted to there not being enough love surrounding her, I sympathized with her. Not only has Tess transformed from the villain to helping the heroes, but she also shows a human side to her; warming. Her connection with the cloned Lex was moving. Cat pointed out that Tess was grieving like a mother would for her son, which was exactly how she saw little Lex and for the first time Tess could say she was loved.

Tess also had her fun moments and I laughed with Tess when Cat accused Lois of being 'The Blur', almost convinced because she saw Lois with powers. She had everything about "The Blur's" identity down except for the sex. Cat humiliated herself, why didn't she just publish the evidence then brag about what she did, instead of what she was going to do. Even if Lois was 'The Blur' wouldn't she have done something to prevent her from revealing anything, especially if Lois was as dangerous as she looked? When Clark explained that Lois was possessed by Isis, she didn't even ask who Isis was. Cat is a mystery on her own and it surprises me that she would risk her life going on dangerous missions, all the while being a mother with a child at home. Cat was more than fortunate when she got out of that situation alive.

Cat got thumbs down in my book for stabbing Lois in the hand with a boiled point pen! Why did Clark stop Lois from punching her to the curb; Cat definitely should have seen that coming! As for that Clark and Lois' final scene, Lois was going to reveal the secret to Clark only unless he was ready to let her know the truth and I wanted to jump on top of Welling uh Clark just when he revealed his secret to Lois, definitely not the reaction he was expecting!

Clark: "All my life I've been afraid Lois! Afraid of people knowing the truth about me! Afraid of them rejecting me and even if they didn't, still losing them! I've been afraid of everything I can't control, but when I was faced with the idea of losing you forever it made me realize that there was something I would regret more than anything else, and it's not telling you the truth about me, because that's the only way we could share a life together, and I know the odds are stacked against us and we would be risking everything, but if you're ready to take that leap, there is no one else that I would want to take that leap with. Lois you have had a lot of questions about 'The Blur' it's me! I'm the Blur!"
(Lois leaps into Clark throwing him on the floor)
Lois: "What took you so long!"
Clark: "What... you!"(Lip touch)

"Isis" gave Clark the incentive that nothing was worth holding back. The revelation was beyond my imaginings. The writers found ways to tell this beautiful story and managed to keep us surprised at the notion. I applauded at the end of this one, anticipating the next and the next. I only hoped that the end of a season was met at episode 100, I could surely do with another year of Smallville!

Image Courtesy: tvmedia.ign.com

Lexa

___________

Five Stars

Grade A-
___________

Private Practice: Season 4, Episode 4 "A Better Place to Be" Review

2010-10-20T15:59:00.000-07:00

What happens when an old friend's past merges with your present and you are forced to show some kind of good nature out of the sake of obligation? Except when Betsy arrived on the Private Practice elevator floor, being forced out of obligation should not have been the initial feeling for Dell's beloved friends. I couldn't imagine the impact it had on Betsy, being told in front of her face that her aunt didn't want her. I mean really! Couldn't she have put her aside and have Violet relay the hard truth, choosing the lesser of two evils! Poor Betsy, she probably knew her aunt's true intentions the moment she stumbled back into her deceased dad's office, at least she had the courtesy to leave her some place familiar. I only resented Violet's plea for anyone to take a helpless child, it was so pathetic, their pitiful faces!

My personal feelings aside on the matter, Betsy has endured a lot within her short childhood. Her mother was a drug abuser, her parents fought and her dad died before she even got to have her first boyfriend, or even a crush. So we all felt for Betsy, and we wanted her to have a save, healthy home. There was a particular scene I admired when Violet took responsibility for her; she spilled some juice on the kitchen floor and it seemed as though it were the end of her world because of the spill. It showed how much little love she had in her life and because of the simplest mistake, she feared the worst punishment. It made me realize that her aunt probably punished her for the petty things out of resentment for her label as the guardian. I applauded Violet for showing Betsy that spilling was natural and she joined in by spilling some bottles of her own. Betsy did not expect that reaction, which made her love Violet deeply.

At first I was concerned for Lucas' sake, Betsy isn't used to having people and babies around her, so she reacts to natural instinct, without considering the effect her actions would have on others. Taking Lucas was Betsy's way of caring, because she hasn't been able to show it much. She had no good parenting role for a huge part of her life and it makes sense why she would do things considered as unnerving to others. The speech Sheldon gave to Violet which painted her as tormented, was slightly extreme. I was surprised that everyone was reluctant to take responsibility for Betsy. It seemed rational that they would try to keep her out of the system, or at least get a good family for her to stay with, through their many connections. They didn't even seem pushed to lift a finger to help. They owed that much to Dell, if he meant anything to them!

Addison, Cooper and Violet were the only ones capable of taking responsibility. Charlotte barely knew Betsy and given her reluctance to have children, it made sense why she wouldn't push. Addison on the other hand wanted children and the writers painted Sam as her reason for not wanting to give Betsy a home, rather than her reluctance to keep a child out of fear of losing them if she became attached. In fact that would have been more an Addison response to the Betsy situation. Violet allowed Pete to dictate how things ran and it made me resent Pete for being so cruel. He has a soft spot for children, but when this tough situation comes along, it is almost impossible for him to think like a grown up. I am certain Pete would have some connections of his own to make his wife happy that Betsy wasn't going in to an already broken system.

Poor Amelia didn't even know who Betsy was and was forced to play catch up on the Dell situation. The thought that seemed to pass through her mind was "I'm so young, I'm not ready to be a mother". Even as the obligation card was played and Violet said the "This was wrong" speech, no one looked as though they cared, there was guilt written all over their faces.

Still I liked the case Addison had to deal with and the tip given by Amelia given her skills as a neurosurgeon. Addison and Pete had this dilemma over a patient and her child. What a horrible situation for a patient to be in every time, no one wants to be in pain every second of their life! It leads me to wonder, had Amelia not been there, how would they have solved this situation? Would a mother be forced to terminate her pregnancy without being given the very best possible alternates? I am happy that Amelia is part of the team for the Practice's sake.

The following case regarding the boy who was moved because he was teased continuously in school reminded be a bit of a previous case where a mother covered her son's face so he wouldn't eat everything in his path. Each parent had good intentions, but incredibly extreme solutions to each problem. No one wants to have their child abused in school, but when she called her son weak, it was so cruel of her to not even want to give the son a fighting chance to succumb to his fears and battle his dilemmas. That would be the only way he could survive in the real world. He was definitely fortunate to land up on Cooper's door step. It is funny sometimes to see Cooper be such a good father type then be a sex object for Charlotte.

Charlotte: "I'm horny, want a quickie?"

Regardless, my best wishes for Betsy remain and I hope for a follow up episode that tells us that Betsy is okay for Dell's sake. They at least owe it to Dell to make sure she is okay.

Picture Courtesy: tvfanatic.com

Lexa

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Four Stars

Grade B-
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Smallville: Season 10, Episode 4 "Homecoming" Review

2010-10-16T15:12:00.000-07:00

Nearing the end of a series, where an abundance of fans have followed since the beginning, writers often slip with the quality or step up their game. "Homecoming" was proof that not only these writers improved on the material, but gave meaning to the story of Smallville; a boy's journey to become the man he was destined to be. Ten years of Smallville clubs, shippers from videos on 'Youtube' and incredible reflections on the image previous writers played on the Superman image, created this milestone. What other meaning could this Superman be to us; the dream that gives every individual hope of life, that people beyond our imaginings hold our best interest at heart.

This episode was filled with such debt. Others have put strain on the pressure placed on Clark to become the hero he was already, but did not take into consideration the strain he placed on himself that held him back. Our minds were focused on the possible threats that Clark would have to battle on this journey, that no one paid attention to his destination. This trip down memory lane was for his own good, despite our resentments. Clark had to face his past; a past he dreams he could redo, correct the wrongs he made and save the people he hurt. He finds so many ways to hurt his already bruised heart from the suffering he had endured. Instead of learning from his mistakes, he transforms the pain into another load.

All this time I struggled to figure out exactly how Clark would change his identity, except the mistake made was the 'change'. There is no way Clark could change the person he spent years building. He once tried to erase himself completely for the betterment of others, rather than realizing the strength he already had to realize his humanity and his destiny. In fact, with a trip to the future, 2017 to be exact, Superman was already born, he was in love and he was on his prophesied path.

Braniac: "This is the moment that your life changes forever"

Braniac's presence alone shows the fate that Clark needed to have in himself. If a corrupted villain could change his stripes, maybe the darkness Jor-El described could be eradicated and overcame. Clark just needed to figure out the meaning behind his doubt, rather than focusing on saving the world just because he could.

Braniac: "The problem is Kal-El you and I aren't very different. We were created in one way or another by Jor-El, both intended to save civilizations, to bring peace to a brutal world, but neither of us was immune to corruption and darkness."

Clark: "What does that mean? All of a sudden everyone is telling me that I have a darkness inside of me, but I don't understand what it is or how I'm supposed to change it!"

It's amazing that when Braniac made his trip to the counselor's office, whose mind was triggered to harm Clark, we assumed Braniac would use her to do Clark harm when he did show up. The question that came up was 'If Braniac was not defeated, why wait on some high school reunion to reap havoc?' So when the counselor bounced into Clark and embraced him, I expected to have her eyes glow, or for some sort of twisted look bearing a smirk, leading to an element in Braniac's plan. I was caught off guard with Braniac's good nature and his trip from the future theory proved more believable and it was time for Kal-El to begin his true path. What other explanation through the revelations of Clark mourning his father's death, or going back to the fight he had with Lionel, could Braniac have other than to help Clark? Give him a saving chance of survival.

Braniac: "We cannot see it in ourselves. My corruption started with a nanobite"

Braniac issued a displeased puff; he could not believe a nanobite could cause so much harm. Yet it's the little insecurities in ourselves that cause us to do harm, so maybe the nanobite was not so small but the biggest revolution to Braniac becoming who he was in the end and being the guide that made Clark discover his nanobite. Sometimes, it is even that simple. We spend so much time figuring out why we need to change ourselves, rather than pointing out what led to that thought of change. What is wrong with the people we are already? All Clark needed was to see for himself that even heroes need a savior.

This revelation for Clark and a trip to the future, made him focus on the people around him. Through his thought of saving humanity by staying away; he hurt the others around him. Oliver needed a friend that remained hidden and Lois was Lois in the end, but he didn't realize how he was hurting her emotionally. Clark's view of humanity and how he could help was what he needed to see clearer. In fact, his glasses in the future gave him a clearer double identity. Though the writers imprinted a nerdy Clark, he was still super in those glasses and the uniformity; the trench coat, the brown overhauls, they all completed the look of Clark Kent. Looking at himself in the elevator, the differences between them were impeccable. Future Clark was so confident, he had no burdens and all that mattered to him was seeing how his destiny truly began. No wonder why Lois couldn't keep her hands off of him. Clark discovered he could also trust Lois with his secret.

Lois: "I would do anything for you"

I remember being hooked on Superman affiliated shows; Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Superman Movies and even Justice League caught my addiction. When Smallville came into play, I couldn't believe, an actual series that masks the true Superman I fell for! Overtime, Smallville worked on developing Clark's character, his journey through childhood; then a teenager. This is something we definitely did not get to see with Clark and the other series. It is almost as though they work hand in hand to tell the full story. Even as Smallville does not reach to the point where we get to see Tom Welling as the Man of Steel, the journey he took us through would always be cherished. I would however save this speech for the finale. We know how we all love it when our favorite series come to an end.

My only fear was the representation of Clark. Previous writing strategies have often played with the idea leading up to Superman; Red-Blue-Blur, The Blur. I only hoped for more serious episodes like this where we connect with Lois and Clark and we see the potential that this Clark Kent could fly. Floating is almost the first baby step to flying and it happened while in the arms of Lois. I found myself staring in awe at that final scene, the moment he told Lois he loved her. Lois is still trying her best not to come into Clark's way. She knows that his destiny is far greater, but hers is also a big part of his. We don't always need future trips in our lives to discover where things would end up, what road not to take, but we can always try to be selfless in our decisions.

I was impressed beyond words with this 'Homecoming'. In the beginning, it seemed to get off at a slow pace with regurgitated clips, but as it built up, I became just as hooked. There were subtle clues in the future, like "Photo by: Jimmy Olsen" and the eight floor dedicated to Lois and Clark, not to mention Perry White. Those were about all the clues the writers chose to reveal, but as for the present "Glad to see you are carrying my torch" -- CS (Chloe Sullivan perhaps?).

Also as a tribute to the present, I admired Oliver's valor; the reporter came down on him, but he didn't put up a fight until Clark showed up to give his support.

Oliver's Speech: "I am not dwelling on revenge for past atrocities, or looking ahead to what I can personally gain from a few tax breaks, drilling oil wells in the ocean, putting up razor wire fences to keep out immigrants who only wanted what our grandparents wanted! In this world of arm chair bloggers, who created a generations of critics instead of leaders, I am actually doing something. Right here! Right now! For the city, for my country... and I'm not doing it alone. You damn right I am a hero!"

Except for the criticism on bloggers, who obviously gave him a topic to talk about, Oliver's speech was his defining moment.

The future as painted in "Pandora" has changed drastically. Moreover since Zod was defeated. It can also prove that what future Clark was exposed to, may be cause for change, and it would only be up to Clark to create his own future. I spent a while on this review, re-watching clips of my favorite moments throughout this episode, which meant I had to watch the episode over to its entirety. Thumbs up to everyone who made 'Homecoming' possible. I applaud each and everyone to keep it up, the journey was a long one and fans are still traveling down the road you constructed for us.

Picture Courtesy: tvmedia.ign.com

Lexa

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Five Stars

Grade A+
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Smallville: Season 10, Episode 3 "Supergirl" Review

2010-10-14T12:13:00.000-07:00

Imagine a world filled with an evil that could consume anyone not pure of heart. This mirrors the every day life ideal; going from day to day expecting that the inside good would combat those frequent struggles life throws our way. This reflection of our everyday lives can be made more comical, portrayed through the image of a Superman; a hero that could take all troubles away. This is something that Clark is learning to become every week and we watch him as he tries to flap his wings, but falls in the process. We would be kidding ourselves if by one lesson by Kara, Clark would fly like a bird. That could have been taught years ago and of course be put to ridicule by fans if he did magically sprout wings.

The highlight of the episode for me was the Lois and Clark reunion. While Darkseid possessed a talk show host with credible angst against the vigilantism in the beginning, that black smoke created a tormented doom. There is more to this Darkseid that can even overpower Doomsday's ripple effect of distress. What was even more disturbing; the possibility that he could posses Clark and destroy the person he spent years creating. Kara had his best interest at heart, as well as Lois, who Darkseid could not possess the same way because of her pure heart. This should give Clark more reason to tell Lois his secret, because no matter how much he tries to protect her, she would always find herself in danger.

Time would be better spent if Lois and Clark worked together, as opposed to covering up a secret that is only credible when the people involved do not know. Amusement for the fans was spent hearing Lois question Clark about Kara coming out about her powers, as Clark made mention to infection by meteor rock. The mere fact that there is mention to these vigilantes facing the public light, brings 'Smallville' closer to the superhero image, strived for since Season one. Lois and Clark are growing closer together, Supergirl is being made public (as Lois secretly tries to avoid calling her that), and Green Arrow is also made public, which brings Clark's role as Superman even clearer.

Oliver played a behind the scenes kind of role, and is hardly being given strong scenes since Chloe left. Still his announcement as Green Arrow's true image would have been more convincing had he worn the actual outfit and removed his mask for the press. A possible show for his fans as to how well he can shoot an arrow, following a prepared speech about justice. Oliver is taking a huge risk flashing Green Arrow to the public as though it were his riches exploited by the press. Except people react differently to money being thrown in their faces; an ulterior identity depends on how much the public has grown within a season of exposure to these heroes. Episodes like "Infamous" place Oliver's decision in the shade. On the other hand, the reasoning behind his leap to stardom and the gamble of imprisonment was due to Chloe's sacrifice, either way he would have done something good.

As for Darkseid, it is going to take a lot more than Kara's bracelet for a complete take down. So long as he believes there is an all pass access to Clark, he would do whatever it takes to get closer to him, and not have pedestrian talk get in the way. In the mean while, Clark has to work on suppressing his inner doubts and confusion that keeps him from becoming the person he is meant to become. I believe that the reasoning behind Jor-El's disowning Clark, is to help him become that person. He knows Kara would not be able to do it on his own, and Clark would need some kind of motivation to get him on the right track. Jor-El found some way unknown to us to communicate with Kara, which could also point out how desperate he is to show Clark that no matter how much training he receives, he would have to make the decision that discovers his defining moment.

What was clever on the writers end was Kara in a brunette wig, with glasses; mirroring the exact identity Clark Kent held in the previous Superman installments. There is no doubt that anyone would be able to identify Clark as Superman if he just wore glasses as Clark Kent. Kara present an unusual pun to this game the writers are playing for our pure enjoyment. We all continue watching week after week anyway.

Thumbs up for Kara and her red and blue slimming outfit; incomplete without the S.

Image Courtesy: popgeezer.com

Lexa

______________________

Four and a Half Stars

Grade A-
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Private Practice: Season 4, Episode 3 "Playing God" Review

2010-10-13T19:14:00.001-07:00

Who got to play God here? Was it Sam with his belief that he could choose who lived or died? Then again, what kind of man admits he is a pedophile to the one doctor that is responsible for his life? Sam was stuck with a dilemma, but was it up to him too decide? He could have easily patched the sucker up and report him to the cops, surely others would have some complaints, but why put children through judicial scrutiny and fear of someone they thought they could trust. The children seemed so disappointed in his death.

Sam came off scary in this episode; his past and present self. He not only intentionally killed someone in his past life, but he considered killing someone again in his present. On top of his pitiable decisions, he yelled at Addison to "Shut up", pushed her away and drew nearer towards Naomi. It also seemed as though Sam resented Addison for telling her what happened a few years ago. Addison is beginning to question the man she is with, as Sam no longer respects her as a friend.

Naomi's letter: "You're selfish Addison, you always have been. The tunnel vision that makes you a great surgeon also makes you a crappy friend. You're a cheater and while Sam and I aren't married anymore you knew what you were doing was wrong and so you lied to me. Everyday that you didn't tell me about the two of you, you lied, because you knew, telling the truth would be hard, and you're a coward. You're my best friend and when I look at you now, I just want to slap you across the face."

That about sums up exactly how Naomi felt after Addison broke the news to her that she and Sam were a couple. We saw about five pages more that Naomi was holding, maybe she had more to say or those were just drafts. She blurted out in so many awful, bitch slapping words and covered it up with "just kidding" fall backs. Do we really blame her for feeling hurt? Has Addison gone too far? Not too long ago Addison was telling Sam how lonely she felt, making odd references to how has it been since she had sex. Those moments were crucial for their friendship and now, Addison managed to alienate her only friend left; Naomi.

Honestly, Naomi lost claim over Sam the moment they got divorced. Had she not known Addison personally, it would just be Sam dating or in this case sleeping with another woman, because he was single. The mere fact that Addison knew how intimate Sam and Naomi were, makes it all the more wrong in Naomi's eyes, so all of her remarks makes sense.

Addison: "Who needs cereal when you could have, chocolate cupcakes?"
Naomi: "You're sleeping with my husband and all I get are chocolate cupcakes?"

Maybe Addison should have gone for an entire chocolate cake just to be sure. Naomi just wanted to see Addison grovel a little more before she revealed she was playing, but we all knew she was serious, and Addison knew it as well.

I am certainly not routing for Addison and Sam, something about their relationship was spoiled by the writers. They lack the intimate chemistry; I am not used to having Sam's arms over Addison's intimate parts and vice versa.
The flashbacks between them would have been justified had Patrick Dempsey (Derek) guest stared in the past; the way Caterina Scorsone (Amelia) made a trip over to see her brother on Grey's Anatomy. Addison looked dorkier and Sam had more facial hair. They all looked hilarious.

Amelia's Grey's Anatomy filler piece
Boy was Derek anal and vindictive toward Amelia, almost as if he resented his own sister for something we aren't really clear about. Amelia's past is somewhat vague, since her character was created in Private Practice, it is almost impossible to pin point her relationship with Derek, since we got to know her through her relationship with Addison. Amelia brought a present for Derek in the form of a patient; how twisted can this family become. Derek was willing to accept the patient out of share obligation, but was consistently mean to Amelia. His reaction to her almost reminded me of the ways he used to look at Addison; with disdain and regret. In the end when they made up, she should have suggested Derek visit the Practice, at least give the audience some hope. The only one that ever came over to the Practice was Bailey oh and Mark, which seems so long ago.

Aside from the Grey's Anatomy piece, which I had to watch after Amelia blurted that she slept with Mark! Imagine me being confused then; either I missed an episode or Amelia took that visit to Seattle like she promised to do week after week since the season began. Grey's did have an interesting episode, but I think I would only join in when the shows cross, things are more interesting that way. As for Mark and Amelia "What were you thinking girl!" - that was what Addison should have said, instead of dusting it under the carpet for pure amusement.
End

We also had many more interesting plot lines aside from the Addison-Sam-Naomi triangle which took over. Pete and his old friend came out of nowhere, but I would have appreciated it had Pete decided to make his own clinic in the measures of the law that made him comfortable. I understood his connection with Violet, which the writers are trying to encourage the idea of this newlywed marriage. I am still shocked that Violet and Pete were a couple. Had they held out for Pete's old friend, maybe Violet would have wanted to change him for the better and she might have ended up being in a relationship outside the Practice. Each doctor is in a relationship with each other, with the exception of Sheldon and Naomi. Everything is just too messy around the Practice as Cooper and Charlotte are in this "let's find a new home, but I love you enough to stay here" zone.

Shonda Rhimes needs a little bit more edge for each plot, before everything else crumbles. I hope to have more of Maya and Dink, with their child and less scenes being opened with everyone having sex; too cliche now. I am actually beginning to miss the old days where everyone was still getting to know each other. I can now say I actually missed Dell's presence. Even though he was hardly given real scenes, the man that took his life brought back memories of that finale episode. It was devastating that Dell had to leave that way. What about this guy that decides his life is worthless because Sam would not forgive him? Those scenes seemed less moving, as I couldn't really care for them. It didn't make much sense why this guy was ready to kill himself and when Sam gave him the go ahead not too, it was implied that he was willing to live another day. A bit far-fetched and could have been made more moving.

At least now we have some reasoning behind Sam and Naomi's break-up, too bad it was too late and now he's in another woman's arms.

Picture Courtesy: tvfanatic.com

Lexa

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Four Stars

Grade B-
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Hellcats: Season 1, Episode 4 "Nobody Loves Me But My Mother" Review

2010-10-03T15:03:00.001-07:00

What does it say about Dan that he can charm his way into any family, but it looked as though he could not fool Savannah's mother long enough to get away with it. I was proud of Savannah though, when Dan placed the 'We're in an open relationship' label on them, I could tell Savannah was not okay with that. It was almost as if it went against her principles; which are pretty strong. Giving Dan an ultimatum 'All in, or All out' took guts and proved that every experience was a learning challenge for her. I believe experiences outside the world her family mirrors, would seem fresh for Savannah, and would cause her to be a fish out of water, but she handles the pressure and swims toward the water (If you understand the metaphor).

Something about Dan and this shift to a monogamous relationship may prove to be stressful, especially if he thinks of it as just that. They are in the awkward stage of the relationship; silent stares over the dinner table, weird kissing moments and weird conversations. Beneath the surface there is something more worth discovering, they are willing to dig until they find it. On the role of awkward relationships, we have Lewis and Alice still holding on to that flame that Lewis thought he blew out. It was desperate on Alice's part as she was willing to strip tease Lewis inhibitions to get him back. What went on after the cameras went off and Alice was on top of Lewis (We all know they probably yelled cut and switched to the next scene, leaving our imaginations to play with that scene). It makes me wonder how serious was their relationship that made Alice turn psychotic to relight the flame.

Alice surprised me here; I always believed she was snappy towards Marti because she was in her way to succeed as a cheerleader. When Alice brought up the theory about her father's controlling habits, it felt as though she had no choice than to succeed as a cheerleader, otherwise her old man would send her to the wolves. After Alice confessed to Lewis about taking the drugs so they would get back together, as though everything would revert to square one, it seemed so crazy. Pelting an object at him just so he would listen after he officially broke up, it was like Alice 'lost it'. Lewis disappointed me as well, I expected him to refuse Alice's gestures, after just having asked Marti out on a date. Seemed so imprudent when he decided to roll on the floor with Alice after the fact, then to give Marti the run around when she accepted his offer. It was however a good sign on his part telling Marti the truth instead of leading her on, as I imagined he would have done.

Thumbs up to Alyson Michalka (Marti) for that stellar stage performance, well executed. Marti seems so talented all round; a singer, trained gymnast, cheerleader, soon to be lawyer, what's next. Marti has a long way to go when it comes to character development, but its fun watching her grow as an individual. We don't always have it figured out ourselves.

Lexa

Picture Courtesy: static.wetpaint

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Four and a half Stars

Grade B+
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Nikita: Season 1 Episode 3 "Kill Jill" Review

2010-10-03T15:01:00.000-07:00

Surprisingly this series is growing on me. I found myself tuning into the promos for this episode specifically and anticipate what exactly 'Nikita' would bring to the table. No matter how many cool stunts they bring in the promotions, it does not measure up to the quality each episode displays weekly. The series takes up a life of its own, despite the cheesy opening title that gives us a little insight on why Nikita is taking Division down. There is a particular rush of excitement you would get during each action sequence. The intensity between Michael and Nikita is impeccable; I actually can't wait for moments of them in the same scene together. Even as we are uncertain as to what chemistry they had in the past, Michael's hesitance to do her harm speaks for itself, creating an unspeakable allure.

Nikita: “You have no idea how much pain I can take.”

It's interesting how even through their fight scenes, it seems as though Michael and Nikita knew each other intimately. It's not necessarily a sexual intimacy, but they've probably seen each other on a deeper level and know how they think. Still Nikita was willing to dislocate her arm for the betterment of the mission. No matter how hard Michael tries to get her in a hold, Nikita slips away. I'm not sure if it is intentional on Michael's part, but he seems loyal enough to Percy, but is torn by his love for Nikita.

Jill was the obvious subject in Division's spotlight; "Kill Jill" stemming from the plausible "Kill Bill" premise, almost an ideal pun. Still the reporter gig taken by Julie Gonzalo (Jill) was bound to cause a dent in Division's Bond-like ssshhhecret image. A nosy reporter is almost as dangerous as someone putting a gun to Percy's head. What was with the helicopters and the cover-ups? Divison's dirty tricks come off on a personal level; used to take out Percy's dirty laundry. Nikita is probably not the only threat that Percy has to worry about, especially since she and Jill became buddies in the end. It was poetic justice the way Jill managed to remain alive in the end. If anyone tried to kill Jill after her story went public, it proves its validity, working against Division. It was still sad for Jill's source to get the axe, even after he helped saved Jill's life.

Birkhoff is Division central and fears Percy more than anyone else. Amanda comes of scary as well, but he doesn't seem afraid, but intimidated by her silent death threats. Finding that device Nikita planted in Birkhoff's mouth was clever. Nikita must have had a fall back plan and she didn't just kidnap Birkhoff in the beginning to threaten information out of him, but to plant a bug of some sort. Alex didn't seem to care that her fall guy was discovered; it only meant that she had to be extra careful when she ran her errands for Nikita. It also meant playing close attention to missions that help compromise her friend's location. Alex is probably as good as Nikita, I still wonder how Nikita taught her about Division's tricks, or even how she is allowed so much computer time after hours.

One thing that contrasts "Nikita" from "La Femme Nikita" is the focus on the rookie alone, as opposed to the actual agents. We form bonds with those competing to go on an actual mission. Although Jaden comes off as the villain, she still carries her sensitive roots. I don't understand her weekly angst, but fighting is the only way she learns how to cope. We know nothing about her past and it probably fills in the odd gaps we are uncertain, about her character. Alex carries a sense of tolerable strength that Thom is attracted to and it takes the shine Jaden once believed he had for her.

As mentioned before, this season is looking up and growing with each character change and development. I am certainly anticipating the next installment, who knew it would carry this effect.

Picture Courtesy: screencrave.com

Lexa

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Four and a Half Stars

Grade B+
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The Good Wife: Season 2, Episode 1 "Taking Control" Series Premiere Review

2010-10-03T14:59:00.000-07:00

Alicia is too good a wife that it makes her naive as she focuses purely on her family and continuously neglects herself and her needs. I have been observing Peter's actions from last season and he hasn't once showed signs of guilt, or regret. He only felt saddened through his misfortune and loss of almost everything in his life. It almost sickened me during that sex scene between them. He was more willing to rip off her clothes like an animal, rather than make love to her as his wife. Peter is even gaining control in the bedroom department, something that Alicia always had over him. It's depressing; their love story turned into a despicable tale of sorrows and disgust; more for the audience.

I always cheered for Will and Alicia, because he always loved her not because of her physical attributes, but because of her intelligence reflected through their intimate friendship. It was more disturbing watching Will flash eyes of resentment towards Alicia. This episode opened not too long after the dreaded phone call, where Alicia had to make a tough decision, between her family and the man she was falling in love with. Whoever taught Will that he should leave life changing message over voice-mail, fooled him drastically. Do you know how many messages get lost or are not retrieved, Will was truly naive himself to have the voice message be the decision options for Alicia. He should have flown there in person, to save manipulators like Eli Gold from intercepting an important message. Oh! I'm certain Will didn't count on the Eli Golds that would sabotage a relationship before it began at least he has the entire season to learn from his mistakes.

The writing of 'The Good Wife' is so intricate and intense at the same time. They manage to bring real facts; formulating plot-lines that are placed perfectly. The new partner Derek Bond, sheds light on the problems Lockhart and Gardner faced last season. Now they are willing to do anything to keep the firm standing. Derek and Will have bonded far beyond their names. They have managed to score past conflict, but rest solely on results. I sense Diane being left out slightly, she and Will are strong independent leaders, but have often clashed when it came to work.

The law business seems to put a lot of people at odds, promoting more foes that can be counted. I always disliked Carey for his competitive, cold-heated nature. He was always out for himself and saw people as parts in the game he played. He was a good lawyer; he had his moments, but somehow Alicia was better. This season Alicia and Carey would clash a lot, for Carey it would be personal because Alicia took a place he believed belonged to him. Then, it seemed like sweet revenge, but now he is trying to prove himself; working form the enemy in the audience eyes makes him slimier than he used to be.

Another interaction we were familiar with was Alicia's friendship with Kalinda. Kalinda herself is getting competition with a fellow employee, who seems to be as good as she is and knows more about her past than the audience. I knew something was up with him when she ran into him at the apartment. He seemed suspicious somehow; giving her access to the room knowing clearly she was there to do exactly what he was up to. What is their tension about anyway? This Blake character seems threatening, and I am not certain if I completely like him. The best moment was when Kalinda decided to announce that she was ready to help Alicia, but Blake was already on the case. Alicia sees Kalinda as a friend, and whatever trickery Blake has up his sleeve, Alicia would not crack under his childish pressure.

Except for the Alicia and Peter scenes, this episode was exceptional, but it hurt watching Will and Alicia be so distant. Hopefully Will would get over the incident long enough to rationalize that maybe she did not get the message. Time would tell.

Picture Courtesy: tvfanatic.com

Lexa

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Four and a Half Stars

Grade A-
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Parenthood: Season 2, Episode 3 "I'm Cooler Than You Think" Review

2010-10-03T14:57:00.000-07:00

"I'm Cooler Than You Think!" I believe this was the exact statement Sarah was trying to prove to Amber. What mother wouldn't want to be seen as their child's best friend, at least friendship was important to Sarah. Amber seems to have grown up so fast, surpassing Sarah's expectations, leaving little time to be a mother. Now it appears as though friendship is Sarah's weapon of 'last resorts'.

This relationship partially touches on the drama each member of the Braverman clan has to live through, day in and out. This time, Adam's relationship with his son was exhausted because of Max's condition. We had Haddie prioritizing her goals and aiming for a leading role, resenting any assistance from her mother. Sarah interestingly formed a new relationship with a fellow colleague, and strengthened her relationship with her daughter. Julia wanting a new addition to her family against her husband's agreement and Crosby coming to a block when Jabbar's grandmother attempted to restrict 'daddy time'.

When there are this many story lines occurring in one plot, within one hour, it may be difficult to keep track of all. Yet, we manage to keep connected, just as we would with the many family members in our lives, blood related or through friendship. The Bravemans take family on a long journey and give parenthood new meaning.

Sarah - The Cool Parent

This venture in Sarah's life took a sudden turn through Amber's eyes. We hardly got any decent time spent on what Amber was up to, especially since she got a sudden friend. Amber's friend came in the picture under suspense, in fact we found out about through Sarah's discovery. Now Kelsey is where Amber spends most of her time. Meeting Kelsey's mom was also discovered through Sarah. The writers deliberately give us as much information as Sarah for a particular reason I am intrigued about. Kelsey's mother seemed not to have a care in the world; anything went for her.

Sarah: "I don't know if the girls mentioned, I wanted to take them to this uhm, club to see a singer this week? It's on a school night?"
Jennifer: "Oh fabulous! Oh it sounds fun! Great yes! Good for you!"
Sarah: "I'll be with them the whole time!"
Jennifer: "Oh great! Great! Thank you!"

It seemed almost hopeless then, as though all Kelsey's mother heard was "I am taking your daughter away", before she was quick to give in without hearing anything further. Sarah would have certainly asked her more questions, like what time is the concert? What day exactly? How long would she be gone? Would there be supervision? Sarah seemed to answer that final question for her. Jennifer had not one care in the world, which could possibly be why Amber spends most of her time there, who doesn't love the 'no rules mom'?

Jennifer was painted as the rich mother; through Zeek's interest in her car and her attitude in general depicted the cliched wealthy woman. Yet she spends more time with Amber, having Sarah resort to 'underground club tickets' as some sort of motherly salvation. I took interest specifically in this plot because of Sarah's new love interest; the co worker with underground connection, how charming! I especially admired the lengths Sarah would endure just to spend a few seconds with Amber. I was hopeful for a decent outcome and that her underground connection guy did not bail, but it worked out for the best and Sarah also scored a potential boyfriend.

Adam - The Father in need of Love from his Son

When we first learned about Max's condition, it was Season 1. Adam had moments with his son before, but as Max grows older with the asperger syndrome, Adam realizes his son's disconnection with the world surrounding him and saw a future where he and Max were complete strangers. Adam is unable to relate completely with what Max is going through. His opening scene where he tries to get Max to agree to terms outside the comfort zone was hope in Adam's heart that he and his son could have a different future to the one painted in his head.

I sympathized with Adam as he voiced his concerns to Gaby and she stared at him blatantly with no response. All the feelings Adam was going through, were natural.

Adam: "It's just hard, and I would like to have a conversation with my son"
Gaby: "He would get there"

Somehow I expected more from Gaby, she must have had this conversation several times with other families. Adam's questions were pertinent, so why were her responses of disregard. She told Adam that 'everything would be alright' without explaining how. It's not her job to counsel parents, but it could just as well be her job to recommend help for Adam, even as she didn't have all the answers. The final scene however was moving to me. Others believe that it was too much for Adam to experience that much improvement in Max's condition, but how can we understand how much interaction Adam has had with his son or whether or not that was his first break in communicating with his father? It is almost puzzling as to why the writers gave us that piece of comfort, but does this mean that Max is progressing?

Julia, Joel and a Newborn (?)

Fall in love, get married, have one child, but did Joel count on leaving his job and becoming a house dad? Nothing can be too predictable and we all knew how much Joel resented being the stay at home dad. He loves his daughter very much, but he got a taste of his old life. After Sarah asked him to build that desk, it just brought back old memories as to how much he loved his job and another child could prevent him from reconnecting with his older job.

I admire Joel and Julia's relationship. Julia is the baby girl in the family, but Joel seems wrapped up in Julia's world, unable to resurface. We haven't truly had the chance of understanding what makes Joel beyond the handsome husband role model. Last season we had some conflict with another woman and now we have Joel's passion to be other than 'the dad' resurfacing. I expected more of a fight for him to go back at work, rather than suffocating at home, although they each have their merits. There is so much Julia could promise. There is no guarantee her job would not come in the way again. Only when the idea went public did Joel blow up, he should know that Julia would confide in her brother, only when Julia's colleague gives a high five should he draw out his armor.

Crosby - The Unexpected Father-Type

Crosby surprised me the moment he decided to be a real father to Jabbar, even after he began an exclusive relationship with Jasmine. Crosby came off as a party guy, who would hook up with the many women in his life. Now he has focus and his son has taken priority, along with his relationship with Jasmine. His relationship with his mother needed a little work however. She continued to picture him in a poor light, as though he would leave Jabbar as soon as he could, just like her husband did Jasmine. I believe Crosby's connection to family came from his own family that is well connected and his love for his son goes beyond actions and reaches for his heart.

Crosby: "Well, I'm his dad and I don't have a say in it so..."
Zeek: "Oh I see. Well your balls will still be here when you get back."
Jabbar: "What balls?"

I always admired the Braverman family interactions, especially that cute remark by Jabbar made hilarious by how oblivious he was to the statement. Crosby's commitment as a father encouraged him to stick up to Rene, to show her that he was there for Jabbar. Jabbar is proving to be a loved child, which makes his presence prodigious.

Crosby: "It's not fair of you to hold a grudge against me for some crap your husband did years ago! I'm, I'm here for my son! Okay and I'm not going anywhere! You're going to have to deal with that!"

Yeah! You tell her! Crosby's words had an effect and Rene worked with that, she even joined him on his game ventures even past Jabbar's bedtime. I thought that was grown up of her and she would be giving Crosby more chances to prove himself as a father in the future. He's not completely off the hook yet!

Kristina and Haddie - Mother and Daughter Dispute

Haddie is fortunate to have a mother that cared so much to smother her with love. I believe Haddie knows how over enthusiastic her mother can become about situations surrounding changes in her life, and Kristina could be a bit enthusiastic, but when it comes to the amount of love Kristina has to offer Haddie's election was her chance to show off that love. Kristina may have little influence over her daughter's decision (eg. Her boyfriend choices), but campaigns were Kristina's thing in the past and that was something she could hold on to with Haddie. Still the off and on conflict between shows the fluctuating tension between parent and child. It's natural and makes them a family because of it.

Image Courtesy: images.hitfix.com

Lexa

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Four and a Half Stars

Grade A-
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Private Practice: Season 4, Episode 2 "Short Cuts" Review

2010-10-03T14:55:00.000-07:00

What's wrong with this picture; Violet ruining 'Happy Time' with Pete, to answer a phone call from Cooper, really. Cooper seems to not understand the concept of the honeymoon phase; I mean give the newlyweds a break. I may not be a fan of Violet and Pete's new found love for each other, but there are some limits you just don't cross. Charlotte was not particularly 'happy-go-lucky' with the idea of Cooper's relationship with Violet; it's not the first time. She has the right to be upset with the situation, it's like having your husband-to-be nagging about spending more time with his best friend Violet, of course it would hit a nerve! Frankly I'm merely surprised that Cooper did not once say that Charlotte was his best friend or a friend at all. As though Charlotte was the only person he was allowed to have sex with. If he were to uphold this friend theory, then it would not make everyone else's life miserable because he wants to spend time talking to Violet. Hey! He is the only one making the calls in the first place!

(Whew, guys had to be said) Lately, Private Practice has developed the knack of placing odd couples together, that in reality would raise a few eyebrows; Sam and Addison making a fine addition to this 'odd couple' theory. The connection is not there and I actually missed moments when they were just friends. It seemed so real and honest, now Addison and Sam feels constructed because of a script. Then again, I remember a friend whose husband of twenty years were friends first, but with them you always wondered why they weren't dating sooner. Addison and Sam, the question remains 'why did they stop being friends and began sleeping together?'. Mostly shows have the capability to ruin couples when they get together, but what was Shonda Rhimes thinking here? When Addison told Naomi about the relationship, it was a major wreck! How does not talking about your happiness around a friend be left out in every conversation, because that happiness is because of her ex-husband?

The cases surrounding the relationship drama were pretty basic. We had a guest star appearance from a familiar face Justine Bateman, from a past favorite 'Men in Trees'. She was the mother of an autistic child who used marijuana as a medicinal supplement for her child. It actually compelled a feud between Cooper and Pete, because of Pete's marijuana prescription for the mother. It almost seemed like the feud developed out of Cooper subconscious resentment for Pete. Cooper's anger was sincere, but his mockery of the situation came from a different place, more personal. Bateman's acting was impressive and moving as a mother seeking the best interest of her child, but the entire time I kept think of Max's autism from 'Parenthood' and how much I missed 'Men in Trees' and resented Lynn (Justine Bateman) for coming in between Jack and Marin (unrelated I know, but it did bring back some loved memories).

The second case dealt with a gender reassignment patient who Sheldon had to psychologically anaylse before a life altering decision was made. Frankly I believed Sheldon spent too much time on this case. It dealt with the basic anatomy of merging two separate identities into one image, yet it seemed more personal for Sheldon, as though he could have related somehow with an older patient. Sheldon does not want to be responsible if he encouraged someone to make a wrong decision, but it was touching how Charlotte was sympathetic and even made a friend. We were able to get a little more insight into Charlotte's past, dealing with how she got the title 'Bitch'. It was always evident that Charlotte had a heart, merely because she showed emotion in her own way.

Surprise turn for the Practice, revealing new cases to their audience. That was a bold move for Naomi to merge Practices, but why take so long to do a predictable stunt? Almost everyone could not care less about joining, they saw each other practically every day, merging cases and splashing titles along with responsibilities. Now William passed away, it gave Naomi initiative. Now I am beginning to miss Fife and his annoying personality, he added a lot of juice, and his connection with Naomi was the most sincere in a long time. On a side note, what it is with James Morrison's (William White) reputation to leave each series with a death notice. We don't even get to officially mourn his death since Naomi dismissed it as a 'he was sick after all, so we should just accept it'. For the final most awkward moments, how about walking in on a friend while they are having sex in their home, looks like Cooper pulled his last straw.

Lexa

Picture Courtesy: tvfanatic.com

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Three and a half Stars

Grade B-
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Castle: Season 3, Episode 2 "He's Dead, She's Dead" Review

2010-10-03T14:54:00.000-07:00

Richard Alexander Rogers; that name rolls of the tongue, no wonder Castle felt the need to change it around so confusingly. Richard Castle seemed so much easier, still finding out from a psychic that Alexander would be 'the one' for Beckett was priceless, even if it felt corny. Not to mention Castle's subtle explanation of his name, what could the psychic say about Alexander? Could that have been concern on Castle's end? Only Beckett would have understood the entire puzzle.

Aside from the nonstop batter between Castle and Beckett about psychics, the body revealer in the beginning was a new awkward touch. We all know a dead body is discovered in the first few minutes, and with the opening scene; calling out for the mother only meant that she had seen her last. Still that body wrapped in the sofa seemed so cruel. The mind games the writers threw our way kept us on our toes. I figured it out though, I might not have had all the pieces and it could have spun either way, but the mother and daughter routine; past clients of the psychic seemed so out of the blue. Why only focus on those clients, showing them within the same five minute brief it took to discover the psychic's body.

Writers of the most successful series throw false alarms our way to get the audience off the scent of the culprit. Only the best of the best can cleverly create a scene that surprises us at the final reveal. I give Castle credit for t=doing that most of the time. Separate from the murder case, the constant batter between Castle and Beckett and the morgue visits with Lanie, everything else seemed like a mere episode. Last season we were left off with a cliff hanger; Castle went off with his ex-wife, Beckett dumped Demming and this season we had Esposito and Ryan at odds with Castle. Neither of the former was acknowledged. It almost seemed like all was forgiven with Esposito, who had it out for Castle, it would have been consistent had the intensity still remained and Castle was left to fend for himself. After all, I believe that I am a bit angry with Castle and haven't truly forgiven him for being so clueless when it came to Beckett.

Beckett's only satisfaction right now is knowing she had Castle by her side, so that's understandable. We, however can see how much Beckett loves him, it's unspoken and pure. Besides the obvious, if Castle is in a relationship with his ex, why haven't we seen her or got any further confirmation of their involvement? This episode was pretty subtle and even as I had figured out the guilty culprit, everything else surrounding the case felt meaningless.

The only comic relief that bent in this episode's favor was the relationship between Castle and his mother. Except this time Susan Sullivan (Martha) played the more serious role regarding a proposal she did not anticipate from the guy she was seeing, then to deal with him passing. Her tears were felt and even as she may not have loved him as he loved her, she did not want him dead, nor did she want to break his heart. It was amazing how much I enjoyed that final scene between Castle and his mother more than every situation surrounding that moment.

Lexa

Picture Courtesy: screencrave.com

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Three and a half Stars

Grade C-
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The Mentalist: Season 3, Episode 2 "Cackle-Bladder Blood" Review

2010-10-03T14:53:00.000-07:00

Finally! Some more back story into Jane's past, it even surprises me that his past surpassed the person he is now. Jane has always been an intriguing character, the way he manipulates his skills to depict the value of the world in front of him. This time however Jane is different, a little more detached than usual. The scene opened late at night with Jane playing with a mechanical airplane at the station. It's almost as if he has moved his life completely their and falls prey to his childish whims, to override the pain he endures regularly. We not only learn more about the person Jane's wife used to be, but the family that came along with her past. Without question Jane devoted his loyalty to her brother Danny, as though he were honoring a promise from beyond the grave, regardless of his guilt.

Jane's motives are warped at times, but eventually become sincere and understandable. They also come with a price and most may get hurt because of his reckless scandals. We often forget the grief surrounding other when the camera focuses on Jane's life, but Danny added an additional grief for viewers and may have even allowed us to form deeper connections to Jane's past. Old acquaintances like Pete (Who would have easily break Jane's neck if he didn't reveal his connection) and Samantha (The cop hater), created a sense of depth I appreciated. Danny and his knack for sneaky carnival tricks certainly cost him jail time, but it also showed the dent in his life after his sister left. The final scene between them at the cemetery deepened Jane's love for his family, brutally taken away from him.

At certain moments, memories of Jane's first date with Kristina, he grieved the moment he realized he was having feeling for another woman other than his wife. Jane blames himself regularly for her death and he uses that as leverage to prevent him from being happy. This entire episode was Jane focused for me and I enjoyed it. The murder was not as explicit and the culprit was caught, giving Danny a second chance to maybe even improve his life. Lisbon did Jane a favor by letting Danny leave before the cops arrived, almost as if she felt she owed it to Jane to give him a chance of redemption. Lisbon is probably the closest person that Jane has in his life and he is even keeping her at arm's length.

I equally enjoyed Van Pelt's scenes, helping to con a con artist and she believed the old lady, makes you think about the elderly person you helped across the street the other day then asked for 40 bucks to get home.

Lexa

Picture Courtesy: images.starpulse.com

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Four Stars

Grade B+
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Life Unexpected: Season 2, Episode 3 "Criminal Incriminated" Review

2010-10-03T14:47:00.000-07:00

Well, well, looks as though Lux is caving in from all the pressure of the goody too-shoes Cate. High grades are what's keeping Lux in school and it's just too much for her to bear. Yet, it's understandable. Did Lux have to study in her previous schools? I believe she spent most of her time away from childhood and more in the grown up zone, that she lost the initiative to sit down and study. I believe that Cate should have sat her down and go through her work with her because Lux cannot do it all on her own. Cheating comes off as a means of survival for her.

It was a relief having Jones on board this season, after his break-up with his girlfriend last season and Lux's interaction with meanbies, Jones is a changed man and ready for settling down. At least we knew he was still pinning away after Lux, without her even giving him a decent chance. Still he seems so charming and around her age, so while Lux is really pining for someone that is forbidden, Jones' heart is being torn in the process. I'm beginning to like Jones and dislike Lux a little more. Lux seems to have everything in front of her, yet isn't as happy as she should be. I always wanted her and Jones to have a chance, but I preferred her with Bug then because of their history, now she has every chance to be happy with a guy that has the hots for her, and she is still uncertain.

Lux is attracted to Eric because of his mature stability look. She continues to be attracted to him, because he has the responsible, independent allure that she once used to be. Lux still has a lot going on with her, and when she overheard the cheater league collaborating on ideas to score high in test. When Cate was missing money, I automatically assumed Lux took it, mainly because she did not present a convincing argument when Cate confronted her. Still why would Lux pay a few hundred to score into the cheater's league? Forty bucks would have been enough, so I had my doubts, but Ryan's sister non-denial for taking the funds, was well more convincing - ironically.

Cate and Ryan have been arguing a lot since they got married. It is even presenting some tension for those Cate and Ryan fan. Although I am not a fan of either, it becomes annoying listening to them argue consistently. I had my doubts the moment they said 'I do'. It was almost as if they got married to prevent and ignore the problems they were already having, when in reality they couldn't really run away from problems they already have.

A funny scene for Cate was probably the pot bread that made her high at work. Paige got a gold star for provoking the marital problem Cate and Ryan already had before and after they tied the knot. I admire Paige's commitment to pay Baze back for burning down his bar without argument or bringing legal disputes to the forefront. Baze wants to keep sleeping with Paige from Ryan and Cate for as long as possible. So once it came out, Ryan couldn't help himself, but giving Baze a fist punch couldn't delete what happened between Baze and his sister. It's was funnier that Ryan laughed at the Baze and Paige idea, then to find out that they did do it. His little sister was all grown up, but did he have to kick Paige out, her words towards Cate were piercing. They could have least found her an apartment to stay until.

I guess Ryan wanted to get as far from Baze as possible, his sister sleeping with Baze is too much of a reminder of Cate's previous infidelity. Poor Ryan, if he would stop being in such denial with his marriage maybe things could get straightened out. Cate is afraid of losing Ryan and would do and say anything to keep him around, just so she wouldn't be alone. Ryan on the other hand, has some explaining to do about Julia, the character the writers haven't shed further light on. Maybe Julia would open up some broken wounds that the audience would just eat up.

I enjoyed Baze bonding with his boss and being honest with the client. I hope Baze finds someone that doesn't string him along and keeps him grounded. His boos seems feisty enough - too much for Baze to handle all at once, that should cool him down a bit.

Best Moment of the episode
Kelly gets hit by Cate's ball; looks like no one is truly safe around Cate - emotionally or physically!

Picture Courtesy: tvfanatic.com

Lexa

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Three Stars

Grade C-
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Smallville: Season 10, Episode 2 "Shield" Review

2010-10-03T14:45:00.000-07:00

One step closer to the flight of Superman, but not just yet, Clark still has a few mountains of his own to climb. "Shield" surprisingly shined, as I can say how much I enjoyed the broken boundaries and shattered dreams hoping to subside. Meaning of love and devotion was splashed beyond borders, we all shared how much Lois and Clark loved each other, and within a short space of time, how deeply Oliver and Chloe did the same. Both stories are twisted to form many meanings and I enjoyed both plot-lines.

My focus was still on Clark and his new partner at the daily planet. Lois leaving seemed to have Clark saddened, even if often times he tried to hide it, his emotions are evident. The boy in Clark Kent has transformed into the man, through the way he handles his emotions and refrains from looking at the downside. Clark has been through a lot of anguish, his belief that the further Lois is away from him, the less pain he would have to suffer if anything were to happen to her. Lois is a big girl, she would die to protect Clark and the identity he keeps hidden from her, even with him not knowing.

I still don't understand this need to keep secrets. Inside, Lois had her suspicions, but she was not naive and she connected the pieces on her own. Her discovering Clark's secret was mere confirmation and the secret only holds for new comers that know nothing of him. Particularly Cat Grant, whose naivety when Clark saves her life, twice, surprises me. At first I initially believed that the villains were after Cat for some reason unknown to us, but it turned out quite the obvious and that Clark was the main target. Most people found Cat irritating and simply wanted her off screen, but even as she badgered the vigilante heroes that lurked in the dark, she merely recommended them surfacing and showing their faces. Figures as much, we often believe what we can see, anything else is subject to misconception. The hero acts from the vigilantes could be proof of mere reckless chances for heroism, but doesn't the hidden part take away from claiming a trophy and removing the "Who can catch the most villains" competition.

Something about Cat was amusing; she was a climber and wanted to be well known, but her rough past kept her in the dark and on the run. She can relate with the same vigilantes that she claimed to run around in the dark. Maybe that was why she despised their being, but her bashing of Lois was easily swept under the rug, and I warmed up to her when Clark held that picture of her son. One question though, how did she measure the accident with her car explosion, in her head. Wasn't she the least bit confused, or simply suffered from selective memory. Who knows, it is still a series with a lot of mysteries.

I enjoyed watching Lois and Carter Hall moments. The moment he discovered that Lois knew of Clark's abilities, he did not deny them. He even encouraged Lois to be with the man she loved. It amazed me more to know that Clark preferably sent Carter out to keep an eye on Lois. (Do they have a black book with each superhero list of names?) It showed me that Clark wasn't too worried once her knew Lois was safe. Carter's story about his wife was beautiful, once he told their love story, almost breathtaking his delivery of that scene. I believed that their loved crossed even the journey toward death and the newness of life. When he leaned in to kiss Lois, I wondered why Lois allowed him to get that close before she slapped him. Maybe he looked as though he was playing the part during his beautiful story telling. Lois and Clark may even share that same bond. We haven't had much of Lois and Clark scenes this season, but it may work out for the best when they eventually reunite.

As for the action scenes, I enjoyed the way Clark stopped the bullet for Cat and had it land on her bullet proof vest. Did Cat argue in her mind "Wait how did Clark reach here so quickly" before the "Next time you should wear a bullet proof vest, mine saved my life". Cat's character was priceless, and it made me believe even the unexplained she gobbled up. The Suicide Squad presented an interesting villain-hero scenario; heroes for wanting to save the world and villains for tagging the heroes that would eventually save the world. Deadshot was a new villain, but why waste time tagging bullets with the victims name on them? We also had a reintroduction of an old appearance, Plastique. I can't recall the events surrounding her last visit, but she seemed more in control. It seems as though there are some organizations that view the vigilantes as a treat, but what is more disturbing is how easily they could track each down. Tagging them with a symbol that only means trouble would make their job easier.

What do you guys think of Clark's new suit, it's not the Red-Blue-Blur or the Black and Blue mishap. Even Clark's suits define his character changes. His black suit presented him at a dark peek in his life and now he has added a little color that brings him closer to the suit Jor-El has locked up, couldn't Clark ask Martha to sew him another one?

Lexa

Picture Courtesy: ugo.com

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Four Stars

Grade B+
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Parenthood: Season 2, Episode 2 "No Good Deed"Review

2010-10-03T14:44:00.000-07:00

How does a family seem so real on television? We are usually used to simple parental disputes and just that, or even teenage dilemmas for share entertainment. "Parenthood" makes you take the very same situations you have either seen personally or experienced on a deeper level. No other series have been able to pattern situations so successfully, it's almost as though writers decided to place their own lives or of those around them on television, just so it would feel so real, as though you met the Braverman’s living next door.

Each member in this family has their own character that separates them from each other. We find separate characters to relate with, but manage to love each and every one.

The story-lines are a lot to fit so much juice in just one hour. One thing that always amazed me was the opening titles; they reflect the pictures of almost everyone when they were younger, which paints a connection in our minds that the Bravermans were a family even before this show began. Even though we know it's a simple series, we can be tricked in that way to believe exactly what the writers intended.

Adam - The first son

What is it about about being the eldest that gives you the leader role in the family. The mere title causes you to take on the world of responsibility as though you were the soon-to-be father replacement, next in line when the parents took on the natural way of life, and everyday was an audition. Adam's personal family life is complicated, managing a son diagnosed with Asperger syndrome. It's almost as though the family believes that if he could take on such a challenge, he could handle anything in his life. That would be true if he was more but human, but taking on a work life along with his blood family and family through marriage, it can eventually take a toll.

Sarah - Still finding her way

In "I Hear You, I See You", Sarah was still searching for a job; she was not financially stable. Now I believed that Adam took on a lot of responsibility, then to vouch for Sarah at work stretched thin, but she did initially create the idea that Adam gave to his boss; not that he cared where it came from. Now Sarah has taken the internship, which I hope lasts longer than a few episodes. I actually admire Sarah's determination, even though she is labeled as one least likely to end up succeeding her siblings, it doesn't mean that she could surpass our expectations and surprise us. At least I would not be surprised if she came out successful and accomplished even with her children on her side. Speaking of her children, we have hardly seen any of them this season. Last season Amber wen rogue, angering everyone in her path and her son had his personal issues with his dad, but there is hardly mention of them both. Except for Amber occasionally surfacing for air after school hours, hanging out with the grandparents. I am sure there is more to the time the writers deliberately chose to leave out, there is only so much Braverman they could cover in one episode.

Kristina Braverman - The stay at home mom, and then there was Suze Lessing

Being a mother alone is a challenge, but taking it on as a job, others may find ways to take advantage. Here we have a recurring role from last season Suze Lessing dropping off her son for Kristina; who already has her own burdens to take of. Really, what was Suze thinking? The last time we met Suze. her relationship with her husband was in the clouds and they were on a high with their situation. Now, a summer later, her husband is settling for a divorce leaving Suze to take care of their son with Asperger syndrome. It leaves you to believe that your life could really change in the blink of an eye, but what gives Suze the right to impose on Kristina as though she would have it all figured out. I always believed that you don't leave your baggage with others, because they would always have baggage of their own to carry. It was fun however knowing that Max had someone to relate with on the same level, even if Haddie is as understanding as his big sister.

Sarah, Gordon and the Internship

How cool was Sarah in her work clothes huh! Almost business-like, I'm so proud of her.

Sarah: "Anyone ever heard of Nepotism?"

Talk about an icebreaker when Adam broke the news that Sarah was new in front of her fellow interns. It was probably the thoughts that went through their minds. I kept hoping for Sarah to begin springing her ideas on everyone and showing off her inner genius. The Braverman's are a smart group that know how to take on responsibility and I was proud of Sarah. Then the boss walks in after Sarah is thanking Adam for the chance to aim fro her dreams, and Gordon begins staring at more than her glow of success when she exits, his aim more toward the floor. There was an obvious attraction and he would have sooner undressed her with her eyes had Adam not caught on to his boss' lust for Sarah. The pudding in the lunch room was a knack for Gordon to get to know exactly how Sarah thinks and Nepotism would have crossed a new border. Just then I became intrigued by how concerned Adam was for his sister, almost as though he knew the kind of man his boss was, surely a relationship was not what he had in mind and Sarah was purely meat. I applauded Adam for his concern, it made me believe he would lift his arm to punch his boss had things gotten out of control.

Crosby, Jasmine and Jabbar

Oh how I admire this family, everything dating back to how Jasmine found Crosby and formed her family. Now things were at odds and Jasmine's dreams are forcing her to choose between her career and her family. Jabbar is such a loving child, he loved his father the moment he met him and the feeling was mutual, but it is almost disturbing how Crosby is pulled at ends; having Jasmine return home only to leave again, also leaving her son behind. Even though Crosby means well, his grandmother did have a point, where was Jabbar's room. No matter how much it was sugar coated that Jabbar would be safe, there was no guarantee. I also remember one occasion with a can and was it Jabbar's finger. Staying at his grandmother's was a plausible solution, but it still seemed as though the grandmother resented Crosby even before that boat trip and it would make visiting his son even more challenging. I look forward to Crosby finding his own place and getting to see his son anything time he wanted, probably a place where he and Jasmine could be a family.

Julia Braverman-Graham and Joel Graham

Last season Julia was painted as the mom who barely made time for her family life and allowed her job to consume her. Now she is making time to appear in her daughter's life and be there for her husband. Does that mean she would have time to mother another child? Her husband doesn't seem to want to chance the possibility, because he understands the responsibility, from committing to a lifestyle of fatherhood and removing his job skills from the equation. Still, when Sarah gave Joel the beauty of constructing a desk for her, he had a little hope and having a child may soon create a dent in that moment of happiness. We all saw his doubt when Julia seemed at her happiest, while Julia watched her daughter from a distance. Yet I could not believe the stress her daughter caused at such a young age, engaging in disputes that teenagers are often faced with. Maybe Julia thought that next time she could do better. It was worth it having Joel lay out why Sydney could not 'play date' with Amy. Then again, any child that thinks to ask a mom to set up a play date with a fellow peer should consult the fellow peer first.

Zeek and Camille Braverman

Finally the parents, where it all began. It amazes me that this beautiful family came from one origin. Zeek and Camille love each other, but have often been mislead in their time as a married couple. They face dilemmas, but are trying to work things out. Their counseling sessions seems to be holding for now.

Lexa

Picture Courtesy: hitfix.com

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Five Stars

Grade A-
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