The Mentalist: Season 2 Episode 23 'Red Sky in the Morning' Season Finale Review

In the beginning I was concerned about Jane, because I knew it was his first date. The first time he has actually admitted to himself that he had feelings for another woman since he lost his family an shot down all of his emotions. I understood the denial and the hesitance to commit to anything as yet, the tension was felt at the dinner table. Kristina herself was a bit on edge, she obviously had real feelings for Jane. It didn't surprise me how well she read him, especially since the 'stunt' in Jane perspective, she pulled at the table. Jane is convinced that she is working a scam, because at one point in his life, he was that convincing as a psychic, so everything she said could be easily contested in his eyes or based on pure luck.

The funny thing is, Jane would not once admit or attempt to analyze how she comes up with some of her facts, how she suddenly knew the waiter's name, or even the members in his family, or why she would even care to let the waiter know half the things she told him. Cause for better service or a discount on the meal would be the reason for that and a means to impress or convince Jane, because of course it wasn't her first time at the restaurant and she once overheard the same waiter talking. It is all debatable, but Jane didn't once attempt to figure her out in detail, whether her story checks out. He is just dead set on proving her wrong with no cause or genuine reason.

I admired the scene where he sprung up from the dinner table and rushed off to the bathroom. He seemed out of breath and out of practice as she suggested. He finds himself attracted to someone that did exactly what had is family killed so his dilemma is evident. He was sure ready to pack things up had his phone not rang in time to give him a valid excuse to leave their date. I admire what the writers are trying to do. This was actually the first 'Red John' episode in a while, and actually the closest Jane has gotten to discovering who's behind the mask. His compassion for Kristina was erratic and misplaced, but we got the message. He cared about her, and as we all thought when we saw her talking on live television to 'Red John' "What was she thinking! Is she crazy" and soon enough a feeling of deja-vu overcame the audience, especially when the one who interviewed her, did not have a decent end.

Jane was considerate enough to see her to the elevator, in his awkward state, after he wanted to have her removed from the case. It surprised me that Hightower gave in to Jane's empty threat to leave, as though the CBI cases rested solely on Jane's participation in their classes. Even more surprised that she didn't threaten to have Lisbon removed if he continued with his ramblings, to omit Kristina altogether. What is Hightower's story? Lisbon has the utmost respect for her, and she proves to be a proficient leader. I don't think we have the full story yet. Just on the sideline note, it's been a while since we have seen the group get together to strategize, just something that was noticed.

For a season finale, a little more episodes after this revealing episode would have made a decent appetizer. I would like to see Jane happy for once, so Katrina as a temporary guest star should be up for grabs. I still have hope for a Lisbon and Jane connection, anything's possible, and they have known each other for too long. So here we are back to square one, and Jane hasn't found what he is looking. Another so close and yet so far situations. Do you feel Jane's pain, the writers have surely created a prize winning setting for Jane, his broken heart still in need of a mend or two.

Lexa

______________________

Four and a half Stars

Grade B-
______________________



Read Full Post

Glee: Season 1 Episode 19 'Dream on' Review

We all have our dreams, something that fills us up and give us that drive to keep traveling down that road, even if we are uncertain where it would lead us. For those without their dreams, that takes them down a dismal path that seems unending. Rachel had her dream, she uses her voice because she knows the potential she has within her. She goes wherever her voice carried her, which is why in 'Laryngitis', when she lost her voiced, it was almost as though her dream was slipping away. It took Finn to show her that there are more things worth living for, and that even when one dream ends, another one begins, or simply our dreams may take a completely different direction.

This time around, Rachel's dream also embraced another, the dream of finding out who her mother was. This episode was truly moving. I always wondered where were the parents in Rachel life, that gave her advice and guidance. At first when Jesse came back into Rachel's life I saw how much Rachel loved him, and truly hurt to know that it would all be a sham and that Rachel would get her heart broken. I actually despised Jesse even more, he could have easily seen that beyond Rachel's compulsive moments, she has a sensitive heart. She is used to getting slushies thrown in her face and being labeled as the outcast based on what she's good at, but Rachel keeps climbing heights non-the-less, but I was afraid that Jesse would steel the ladder right up from under her.

This whole time we were led on to believe that Jesse was using her to get close to the Glee Club, but we didn't ever point out how much Rachel resembled Shelby. We only saw Shelby as the enemy, using an innocent girl to achieve her bidding, probably get into Schuester's head in the process. The writers did a good job at distracting me at least, I kept wondering why Jesse would come back just to be with Rachel again. t defeated the entire purpose, but being the puppet responsible for bringing a child back to her mother, seemed so unexpected and selfless. It showed that even though Jess used his manipulations to get close to Rachel, his intention were sincere. Still that does not make things right, and I only hope Rachel does not end up despising Shelby for it.

Jesse: "She wanted you to hear this"
Rachel: "What if she's singing on the tape, what if she's terrible or worse what if she's better than me!"

It only took Rachel to pull of a line like that, and through the humor of it, I kept wondering the significance of this tape. Immediately the concept of a stolen routine concept bounced around in my head, but the 'I dreamed a dream' rendition of a mother speaking to her child, was beyond what I expected. The harmony and chemistry between Lea Michele and Idina Menzel was impeccable. Their harmony brought chills, it truly enhance their acting skills as well to deliver such depth in their emotion. Rachel was determined against listening to that tape, at one point I thought Jesse would shove it down her throat, but it impacted differently than I thought it would. At least Jesse still came off on a good note.

This episode went beyond the Rachel and her mother theme, we also dealt with Will's high school competition Bryan Ryan. They made Will over well, he really wore an Urkel look back in the day. I would have appreciate seeing how Terri would have looked back then as well. It passed over well given the focus was on Will and Bryan, it also didn't hurt that Bryan had a crush on Terri. Wouldn't it be interesting if Bryan were to guest star again as Terri's date? What impact would that have on Will to have Terri move on and become a new woman? Anyway, Ryan and and Will's duet of 'Dream On' was really interesting, especially that surprising high pitched ender by Bryan. Who knew the boys had it in them.

I don't know if anyone else noticed, but Will was rather angry in this episode, of course he had reason to be, but his anger transcended the character. Will is very passionate about his anger, solely because when he is angry, it consumes him. I honestly don't like him for it, I always remember how angry he was when he left Terri, not a pretty image to have in your head. Still Ryan had always been the competition for Will in the past, he must have felt better having the tables turn, after he got the part. It was also strange that after they sang their duet in front of the casting director, he just blurts "Thank you, we'll let you know". I expected a jaw dropper, they certainly out performed themselves and it was worth more than a 'we'll let you know'. I also thought Ryan deserved more than a 'Hallelujah' part based on how he sang. Although for that speech he gave to the Glee Club about giving up on their dreams by throwing it in the trash, made him worthy of that one liner.

Surprisingly this round we had a little less of Sue; very horrible on the Sue and Ryan union, but transparent a Sue does nothing selfless, except when it deals with her sister, and absolutely there were no Brittany lines. The focus was more on Artie and Tina; two characters who should have more screen time. Artie's story was very sensitive, and it's a shame that Emma couldn't do more to help him. That scene where Tina went to get a bagel and Artie stood up suddenly was too dreamlike to resemble the reality of the situation, I really felt sorry for him. What was even more depressing, was the scene where he tries to walk and is left on the floor, truly heartbreaking. Artie did show honor and maturity at the end, when he admitted to himself the reality of the situation. He knew his dream was elsewhere, that didn't mean he should sulk, but find his dream through his voice and who knows what would happen for his future. Also, Quinn's sensitive side was represented her on a sincere level, when she touched Artie, to comfort him in the final scene. Quinn is learning herself what compassion is about, which means she could make a good mother.

As for dreams in total, it can only be accomplished when put into action. We realize what our dreams are through our passions and what fills our heart up. So, Dream On indeed.

Lexa

_____________________

Four and a half Stars

Grade B+
_____________________


Read Full Post

24: Season 8 Episode 22 'Day 8: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM' Review

24 had us on a roller coaster toss around this season, pushing in a few messy ingredients of crazy story lines, with the additional touch of plot that would guarantee a head spin. I believe I lost track of 24 the moment Jack was tortured by the Russians and over turned them. What I admired mostly about 24 in the earlier seasons, was the slow development needed for each character and the less villains to despise or even be impressed by for their dubious approach. Nothing really makes sense any more as 24 rushes through plots and drives their audience crazy for the many characters to keep up with. I think I would have appreciated this season more had Jack not turned the Russian so easily, and had the writers taken the time to draw out that story a bit more believable, but this is what we have to work with.

The wild-card they used was Renee's death to fuel Jack's vendetta for revenge. Other than that there wasn't much of a rational for Jack to go berserk killing anything in his path. It would have been creative had the writers brought up his condition from last season to slow him down, rather than having him tortured an bruised. I can say this much, when Jack went in search of Logan, that was strictly bad ass, which the writers were probably gunning for. The reveal of the man in armor, undefeated and ready for war, was the thrill most viewers were waiting for, but was it enough. TO hear Logan whine like a baby was surely worth it. Sly but coward and the switch to the coward, well scored a few laugh at his character to cry like a baby "That's Jack Bauer!" or even to spice up the moment with "Kill Him!". Why didn't he just run out the vehicle and grab himself a get away car or even surrender himself knowing how good Jack was. I guess Jack would not have been able to use his tear gas and have Logan squirm out like the rat he made himself out to be.

Still I lost interest in the entire plot soon enough. Logan came out of no where trying to be the solution to the President's problem. President Taylor on the other hand disappointed me more this season. Nearing the finale, things don't seem to look up for any character. Chloe still feels obligated to Jack through friendship, and Jack has clearly lost his mind for a love we didn't get enough time to appreciate. His actions are backed up by a rage we don't understand, we wonder whether he has his granddaughter in mind or even Kim when he kills his way to his own death.

As much as we didn't get to know Meredith, she proves to be a sincere character. It would have been worth it had she turned out to be the villain in place of Dana and all the other pointless ones. Wait! Did they manage to find the body Dana shoved in Hastings' office. In all the hustle and bustle 24 should find a way to tie up these loose ends, otherwise we would be in for a messy series finale.

Photo credited to FOX

Lexa

_____________

Three Stars

Grade C-
_____________


Read Full Post

Smallville: Season 9, Episode 20 'Salvation' Review

Lois: "How could a guy who kept a journal in High School ever hurt anyone?"

Really Lois, kind of too trusting there.

After some speculation, Smallville's tenth season has been confirmed as the last. I remember reading some spoilers on the possibility that our long-running superman affiliated fan-series, would meet it's end, and I was in denial for a long time until it was officially confirmed. I actually anticipated that this series would have a longer run, but it was a huge leap. Which means that my excuse to stare at Tom Welling and secretly admire him through my television screen in hope that we would meet in real life, well, would probably have to take a rain check for a while. At least I would miss this series as it being the reason for fans to be so Superman oriented, with comic book terms and technical phrases which only the fans would know. Smallville has grown with each character, from season one till now. It would be missed, but for now we would watch this final season, which given that season nine finally, might have an overall turnaround.

The Book of Rau was the driving force for each and every character in this episode. Everyone had something to do with Zod, Kal-El and with the hope of saving the world, or even the future. This Finale left us with three cliffhangers; Tess' death and her suspicious knitting visitor, Green Arrow/Oliver's capture, and Clark's sacrifice, at an uncertain outcome. The final begs the question, will Clark survive the blue Kryptonite stab would before he hits the ground? Nothing is written in stone, and the writers would not get rid of a main character. Or in other words, Kal-El would not meet his fate with a stab wound, his destiny as Superman is too grand.

I could go in great detail about what I thought about this finale, to sum it up, it was a good episode. I may have not completely loved how Zod left, but Clark's plunge was a cliffhanger which surely had me in awe. Oh wait, but I forgot another cliffhanger, Clark finally revealed to Lois that he was 'The Blur'. There are many loose ends the writers left us clinging on to. Lets just hope that the next season is able to deliver beyond anything we've ever seen. In the past Smallville managed to focus on insignificant plots using episodes to deliver fifteen minute story-lines. Clark has grown up from the boy we knew him to be, and his decision making has matured. Lois is officially his first real relationship as a responsible adult. Clark's battles in the past are minuscule, compared to the battles he has to face now.

I don''t know how the writers would pull Clark from his plunge, whether they would find another superhero to pull him out before he falls, or even have him fall and succumb to his injuries in a hospital, then to have him heel when he is rid of the blue Kyrptonite. However the writers choose to do it, the only thing I would not be too okay with was an 'It was all a dream' or even 'Let's go back to the past and change things'. Although the latter would have its complications. If Clark does end up falling, I wonder if the writers would use that to make Lois believe Clark is human after all and leave her confused about the Blur, who kisses like her boyfriend. I hope not! Clark better be honest from now on, with one season left, all we need is a solid storyline and a decent ender, that would put the cherry on top.

What was up with the future scene in the beginning of the episode? Is this what we are to expect for the next season; The Blur with his legendary cape, Lois with glasses and a Perry White for 'The Daily Planet'? You know I forgot to look for a ring on Lois' finger, one can dream. Still I am sure fans smiled when they saw the cape, especially since presently Martha left Clark with a parting gift and a new addition to the wardrobe. The question is, how would Clark hide his identity? Would he forever remain in the shadows? Does the outfit come with a mask?

As for Chloe and Oliver's love story, we all saw it coming. If the last words between this couple were to be that of love, that's would surely place a wound in the heart, an Chloe would have lost yet another person that stole her heart. Although it's believed that Oliver survived whatever attack that came his way. My first suspicions were also the Kandorians when he put a satellite feed back on, but to learn that it was another organization. Could it be his allies in superhero victory, Black Canary or was it Watchtower?

All I know is that the Zod and Clark fight scenes where very interesting, actually better that Clark and Doomsday final scene. They punches were a bit edgy with the blood squirting out the mouth and then the slow-motion run to catch Lois before she crashed into the phone booth glass. The irony had Lois completely trashed the phone booth with her fall, the same place where she fell for the blur. I was disappointed in Lois for the while, but I tried to be objective. Clark didn't really give Lois a code name of some sort to recognize that it was the Blur she was speaking to, so Zod came off more believable as the Blur. Even if she had her doubts, Clark as the enemy only comes off as laughable to the fullest. He has his moments and Zod would have done anything to get the Book of Rau. He clearly didn't think things through when he gutted Clark, or even before when he incriminated himself. I guess all that's happening to Zod would be repercussions of what he did to Tess.

Poor Tess, even with her dying words she wanted to do good; just to save mankind. Tess went out without having true love in her heart, besides her passion. She didn't even have Oliver's love. Zod brutally torched her, it's a wonder she survived at all, as though he wanted her to suffer. Does Tess have family? Who was the strange woman knitting outside her hospital door, and went in only after they called her death? Very suspicious, would Watchtower have anything to do with that? Or was it even a woman?

At least we wait in anticipation for the next run, a bit sad knowing it would be the last season. Still we could enjoy it to the fullest and hope the writers give us an epic season to remember. Hopefully someone would pick up a sequel say 'Metropolis'?

Lexa

______________________

Four and a half Stars

Grade A-
______________________


Read Full Post

The Mentalist: Season 2 Episode 22 'Red Letter ' Review

We welcome back the psychic Kristina, after a long while. She surprised me the last time she worked alongside the CBI, based on the impact she had over Jane. She was actually the only one that he allowed to get through the shell surrounding his family. She literally brought tears of sorrow to Jane's eyes, so her presence would have a similar emotional effect on him. I sensed a deep connection between them, and even though I have been holding out hope for Jane and Lisbon, I am not too disappointed that he is showing his true feelings for someone outside his sly remarks. Did we hear right in the end? Did Jane ask someone out on a date (cup of coffee, same thing)? I don't know where it would lead or whether the writers would encourage anything more, but Jane needs some bonding time. He spends his entire life wrapped up in cases, that he barely finds time to himself, I am sure Jane is very lonely and hurting.

What surprised me here, was that even though Kristina gave some insight into Jane's family they last time they met, he still did not believe her psychic abilities. He kept second guessing her approaches, replacing it with his method of guess work and practicality. Every inch of enlightenment Kristina unfolds, Jane has his theory to back it up, just so it would make sense to him. He once pretended to be a psychic based on his guess work, so Kristina assumes the very same role he was in years ago. Nothing would get Jane to believe anything otherwise. I believe subconsciously Jane wants to believe it, but he is so full of himself to actually be practical of the things she discovers without his help. Maybe he views her as the competition.

This case actually brought on new prospects of a father who didn't truly know who his daughter was, and a man taking advantage of that naivety. In the beginning of this episode I assumed the them would be about wealth and power, at least I had the speech part right. This guy sends his assistant to ensure that the head of the non-profit organization makes it to his podium safely. He gets a call and goes hurriedly in another way while she waited on him, I kept saying, why didn't she just follow him, or at least find out where he was going? He could have been leaving out the back entrance for all she knew, and she would have been standing waiting in vein. At least I thought her boss did it as well. Much to my surprise it turned out to be a crime of manipulation based on that guy who guest stars on 'Bones' on occasions. A completely different character.

Still there was no curiosity on Lisbon's part when it came to Jane's connection with Kristina. I admire how respectable as a leader Lisbon is and yet we haven't really discovered whether she has a special person in her life. Where does she stand with Jane? Or for a better question, where does Jane stand with her? Cheers to Jane also for almost getting hit again. Is it something that feeds his drive for him getting himself on everyone's bad-side.

At least the culprit got the smack down of the day, and blood was spilled as Kristina said. Based on pure luck as Jane led on? Who knows. I thought it a bit offensive when Jane tried to use Kristina's session to discover the villain, just like what he did the last time. Kristina would have compensated for Jane's actions, which is why she allowed it. I believe she truly likes him, working with him has put an interesting spin on how things are done, at least she gets the job done like Jane does. I would however like to know her story, at least what got her involved into helping the cops find the bad guys. Does she have a past like Jane does?

Lexa

___________

Four Stars

Grade B+
___________



Read Full Post

Glee: Season 1 Episode 18 'Laryngitis' Review

Puck shaves his Mohawk, which puts everyone in awe at school, but as he enters the Glee club;

Brittany: "Who is that guy?"

Brittany has transformed her character in such a way that makes her all the more enjoyable to watch. It amazes me that she had an attraction to Kurt. It's almost as if she couldn't really care much, although they did look kind of cute together. We all know that Kurt transition was to impress his father, by becoming the boy or man he always wanted, which is also a conflicting storyline presented by the writers. They are approaching Kurt's storyline in small doses, but it was inevitable from the day where his crush was not on Rachel.

The title revealed what this episode would be about, the question was then; who would lose their voice? Rachel and her voice are what carried Glee straight through. It came to the point where Will would only cast Rachel as the lead. This has been evident as Rachel point out, till she decided to pay someone to double check herself when it came to warm ups. Hilarious scene, but that really puts a strain on someone's voice if they are the only ones doing the the singing.

I felt compassion for Rachel on the other hand, the fact that she believed she would be nothing without her voice really hit home. It was also surprising that the only one willing to take Rachel to the doctor was Finn, an he was the only one that went out of his way to convince her of her self worth. Where are Rachel's parents throughout these troubling moments in her life. I think back to the amount of guys she was allowed up in her room without any parental supervision. How are they okay with the amount of action Rachel is or is not getting? What about as her support system, are they too preoccupied, or have the writers deliberately left that up to us?

Finn's friend that was the moving moral for Rachel to man up and grow a pair. His story was very sensitive and I appreciated the bond Rachel shared with him in the end. Even the song they sang together was beautiful. It actually made me look at Finn differently as well. Fin has a sift heart and his feelings for Rachel re still there; we know he cares for her. Rachel may come off as overly enthusiastic and odd at times, but Finn understands her, probably better than anyone in Glee.

For once in a long time, the writers let us in on where Quinn is staying. She is bunking with Puck for the while, but its obvious that her relationship with Puck is not serious. It's sad that Quinn doesn't have that family support in her life. Funny enough, had Terri's plan not backfired, I'm sure she would have taken her in. Quinn, at her age, needs a support system and had she been honest with Finn from the beginning maybe things would have mellowed and he would have found it in his heart to forgive her. I still think back to how horrible she treated Finn, when he was willing to do almost anything to support who he believed was his child. We haven't really had a scene between Quinn and Finn, at least to get some clarity on how they feel towards each other. Whether Finn is willing to forgive Quinn at all, or show compassion.

As for the song base Kurt's solo was powerful at best, and it came from his heart. I also appreciated hearing Santana and Mercedes sing 'The boy is Mine', is was an impressive comedy, but why give Puck so much attention. Who knew that Mercedes' popularity would overthrow the Mohawk disappointment? At least she put him in his place long enough, but wouldn't their relationship complicate things with Quinn. Even though she clearly gave Mercedes the go ahead, what does that mean for Quinn an her child? Why would Santana be obsessing over someone who has a child on the way. We need to have Santana and Quinn have a confrontation of some sort.

Lexa

______________________

Three and a half Stars

Grade B-
______________________



Read Full Post

Private Practice: Season 3 Episode 23 'The End of a Beautiful Friendship' Review

Who knew the end of a beautiful friendship would be through death? I believe that even through death, friendships live on in our hearts, because we remember the love we had for them, and amidst all the hurt and pain, Dell was loved. I felt compassion for Betsy, she now has to face the death of both parents at such a young age. Her reaction to Dell's death was solid and no child should have to hear such sorrow.

I was honestly not surprised at Shonda Rhimes' choice to let Chris Lowell (Dell) off from the series. He was given less and less roles from the beginning of the second season, and after the drug storyline came to an end, he was hardly ever screened. In an interview with TV Guide, Lowell revealed the insight into Dell's elimination from the plot. Rhimes suggested that there was not much room for a midwife on the series, at least she could not place anymore story-lines that would embrace or enhance Dell's character given his profession. It was a risky bet given the many ways they could have let him leave the show, Dell had been accepted into medical school, so he could have been sent off with the hope of a return as a guest star.

Lowell, on the other hand appreciated the way Dell was let go according to TV Guide, he always wanted a challenge with his character and Dell gave him that opportunity. In the past, I was known to criticize Dell for his poor use of screen time and his inability to hold a decent storyline without seeming out of place, but his character will be missed. It was almost heartbreaking and unexpected that the after effects of a crash was what took his life. He was trying to bring Maya safely to the hospital, but not everything went as planned. Even Maya's plan took a turn for the worst. Naomi mentioned that had she been in Maya's life a lot more, the outcome could have been different, as Maya would have called her instead of Dell. That's impossible to know for sure, the pregnancy carried its weight on everyone. The past cannot be changed, no matter how much it is willed to do so.

Just when there was an appreciation that Addison and Amelia saved Maya and her child, Dell didn't have the same fate. Amelia's silence alone was enough words to deliver the bad news. Amelia herself had been a character that joined the cast at the latter end of the season. It causes me to inquire whether or not she was ever revealed in Grey's Anatomy and whether or not there would be another crossover. Although there have been word of a possible cross over for next season, it hasn't been confirmed, and already i am curious as to where Private Practice would take us next. Rhimes has managed to create a beautiful series, especially if we analyze how each character has grown each season.

Dell changed from he shirtless surfer boy, to a responsible father. In fact each and every character has changed from the first day we met them as a cast. This change has impacted well on the series; from the torn friendships, to the heartbreaking reunions and realization of the reality of it all. Even Maya has grown from the child to the young adult. I appreciate the family we as a fan-base have grown to love ourselves and we in fact wait in anticipation for the next season.

If we look closer into Charlotte and Cooper's relationship, that proposal came as a huge shocker. I am not convinced that the relationship would last though, Charlotte still doesn't know what went wrong with their relationship in the beginning and Cooper hasn't gotten past his issues long enough to commit himself into a long-term relationship. Cooper was jealous and afraid of losing Charlotte to another man, and although he may truly love er, I would not like it if their marriage turned out to be the same arguing and bashing. Surprisingly, I found Sheldon to be a turn around for Charlotte, the better man; but she was not in love with him. Charlotte and Cooper have so much history that it's very hard to compete with. The good man and husband routine gets old, but I was loving the way Sheldon reacted to Cooper and Charlotte's engagement. I didn't believe it when Cooper announced it. I kept looking at Charlotte's wedding finger to see if it had a ring on to confirm my suspicions that Cooper announced it to irritate Sheldon.

I also expected a Sheldon and Charlotte confrontation after the fact, but that could be left up to next season. Seeing as the engaged couple didn't get hitched right away and preferred to return the rings and try again another day, Sheldon's chances of winning Charlotte's heart became a slim possibility again. Rhimes would not have scripted Sheldon in the plot if he didn't have some impact over Charlotte. Cooper needs to prove himself not only to Charlotte again, butt to the audience for his despicable behavior over the past few weeks, which earned him quite a few punches.

Speaking of punches, how about the one to Pete's face by Sam, after having lied to him that the guy he was operating on, was not the one responsible for Maya's accident. I kept wondering why they were having Sam doing operations in his mentally disoriented state of mind. The staff didn't have a doctor waiting in line to prepare for surgery, they had to wait for a surgeon to come and replace Sam? It's funny how most of the cast find their way doing operations all the time at the hospital, the only one that stays in the practice is Violet. Still Pete should not have lied, convincingly at that. Sam was wrong to use his anger to make his decisions for him, an that man could have died on the table had Pete told Sam the truth. The truth on the other hand comes with acceptance and Sam should have made his personal decision so we could see as an audience the type of person Sam was. The type to operate on a patient even though he hated his guts, or the type to walk away and leave the patient for dead? It's all a puzzle, and we cannot say for sure what Sam would have done, even after he steeped away from the table, his guilty conscience would have stepped in at the last minute, or he could have purposefully not close up a wound fr the sake of his anger.

Altogether Sam has proven to be a very angry person. He could not even handle rejection, but more or so rationality on Addison's part. Even if Naomi gave Addison an apology for her resentment against the Sam and Addison notion, it still felt wrong of Addison to strip naked in front of Sam and have her way with him. I believe that it was easy for Addison to let Pete go, because she knew she held Sam's heart, but how long would it last. After the mild depressed state of everyone, would it sink in that Addison and Sam's relationship is really not that great after all. Naomi still considers him her husband.

After all the other events are settled and questions remain evident as to what next season would bring us, Maya's story would become a tale and Dell's own epic. I actually wondered how the writers would take care of Betsy, I guess leaving her with an aunt would be best, I still appreciated her connection to Maya, and she would have been welcomed by the viewers of the series. Who knows, maybe we would see her again, her story is not over yet. So Rhimes, what's next for Private Practice after this tear moving production?

Lexa

___________

Five Stars

Grade A+
___________


Read Full Post

Romantically Challenged: Season 1 Episode 2 'The Charade' Review

The bonds of friendship and family is evident here, and is continuously tested time again. The trouble I am having is setting these series apart from the many other family or friend oriented themed shows. What Romantically Challenged has on its side is the newness in story lines and plots. Each character carries a different personality and side that shows off a unique appeal I like. I still cannot get over Alyssa Milano's 'Mom' role, since they have hardly screened her son since she mentioned him in the pilot. In fact, we haven't seen the mother side, but more the single side to her.

Her sister comes off as a free spirit who cannot truly commit, so it's understandable Shawn is so crazy over her. Lisa wears one night stands and a weekend away no strings attached as though they were her uniforms or the style off the week. She's is only focused on living life. It often surprised me that the writers placed her as the kindergarten teacher, but that only showed her fun side and the fact that she was still growing up. Which is probably why the guy that is too nice, came off as a creep to her. Frankly I'm sure he scared some of us out as well. Was he willing to run five blocks (or so) for a jacket? I am simply upset he would have a woman waiting for so long.

As for Shawn, he still reminds me a bit of Joey from friends, still I found Joey to be a bit more charming in his flirtatious state, and his 'How you doin'' liner just sold it throughout each season. I just haven't found something that agrees with Shawn yet. Forgetting to pick up Perry after so many reminder notes, was a flat insult. It would have been more attractive had he taken her number, showed off his sensitive side by saying he had to run off and pick up his friend, then he could pick her up later. Shawn didn't understand that once you bunk with a buddy, you try not to piss them off to the point where they kicked you out. Word of advice, even though you know he's going to forgive you for letting him own yet again, you don't gloat about it. Lesson was surely learnt.

This series is very interesting and I actually look forward for more episodes, and for more characters like the extra nice guy, who certainly suffocated poor Rebecca with his niceness. Probably also to the point where she might be afraid for the next guy that asks her if she felt cold and needed a jacket. "You're not going to run ten blocks to get me a jacket though if I said, 'yes I was cold' though?"

Lexa

______________________

Three and a half Stars

Grade B-
______________________


Read Full Post

Smallville: Season 9, Episode 20 'Hostage' Review

The Red Queen; where did Martha find the time to create such a risky villainess. Exploring Martha's history, it's been rough. Clark, although she would not admit it has brought a lot of happiness and sadness into her life. Who knew whether Johnathan would be growing old with Martha or everyone else would have normal lives, whether Smallville would remain the ever so normal town. Martha has sacrificed a lot for Clark's happiness and we all know how much she loves Clark.

Perry White is a character strongly associated with all the comics. I recognized his name, being a fan of Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman. This was a new twist to the storyline, as White is introduced so early in the plot, as was Clark's career at The Daily Planet. White, is the Editor and Chief at the Daily Planet, at least he should be, which I found humorous that the writers chose to place him as Martha's boyfriend. I don't believe that Martha loves White, especially since she is not over Johnathan. The most heartbreaking scene was watching Martha crave for on last moment with her husband, while watching Perry where Johnathon's jacket.

That jacket was symbolic of so many things; a broken heart, death and life, love and desperation and a son that still held on to memories of his father. Which made that particular scene almost depressing. Clark obviously showed no love for his future boss(?) (still wouldn't know how the writers would construct Perry into the storyline; a regular cast?). At least Clark was not the cliched son who resented the notion that his mother would see anyone else but her husband. That was probably because Clark accepted the fact that Martha was still in love with his father and White posed no threat. I did find it disturbing that when White made his first appearance he suggested to Martha that he would have been getting some action, which poses some serious questions, which were not acknowledged.

As we drifted from the Lois and Clark breakup with good reason, I just don't understand why this couple have been fighting so much lately. Clark refuses to let Lois in, even if it means frustrating her completely. Lois has lost her job from The Daily Planet, but Clark isn't the least bit worried. If anyone would remove the hero complex of Clark that the audience is aware of and replace that with the plain Joe Lois sees on a regular, Clark would come off a s a jerk. Clark's communication skills are lacking, and if he were to continue lying to Lois, or keeping the truth from her, their relationship would not be able to last. How does Clark expect to carry on an open relationship, when he is as open as a closed book?

I understand where Lois comes from and she could have easily told Martha the truth earlier in the game, without subjecting herself to a family dinner. Clark himself after being so persistent on leaving could have left well enough alone and assisted Chloe with her rendezvous. The Book of Rau poses some great questions as everyone has motive to look for it. It poses a great threat to the Kandorians, which made me curious as to how Lois and White had such strong leads on the all powerful book.

I was astonished the way Faora's sister still gave information to Clark without even a fight. I remember when she had a crush on Clark not too long ago, and Clark did save her life, subconsciously she doubted Clark's ability to take her sister's life. Another part of her held allegiance to Zod who made it his goal to destroy anyone that came in his path, Checkmate included. She sure enough led Clark to Tess, and after Zod destroyed Checkmate, the Kandorians held the upper hand on everything needed over dominating mankind. Why would Faora's sister help Clark anyway, even if he figured out that it was his own mother as the Red Queen and that she was the crowned owner of the Book of Rau.

How did Tess find herself mixed up in all the combustion, if Faora's sister knew of Tess' motives, it only meant that Zod knew as well. I wonder where Watchtower stands now after Chloe showed the impressive skills of bringing it back to a tolerable capacity? What about Checkmate even? I am almost certain the finale would provide us with the answers needed to survive, or would probably leave us with a bunch of cliffhangers to decipher over. Still I hope this isn't the last we see Martha Kent, Clark needs some parenting in his life and not the Jor-El training type either.

Lexa

_______________________

Three and a half Stars

Grade B-
_______________________


Read Full Post

Castle: Season 2 Episode 23 'Overkill' Review

Beckett's boyfriend was a big reveal, even though Castle knew it in his heart, having Beckett kiss another man would have been heartbreaking for him. We shared his pain. For weeks we have seen Castle's inner emotions for Beckett increase. His eagerness to arrive early at the station just to share a coffee with a special someone, the competition to solve a murder so that inadvertently he could select the prize of recognition; every man's dying dream from the woman he loves. We could definitely say that now more than ever, that Castle loves Beckett.

I was surprised the way he lashed out at his mother, as though her sending a nice note to her competition in the working world, meant the end of his. He was clearly routing for the way his mother despised the person she was competing with. It literally gave him a rush, knowing that secretly if she won the fight, he could win his own as well. That letter signified some sort of retreat or acceptance that the enemy had won, and Castle couldn't have it. His mother was right to have asked him if he was okay, and I was actually hoping for some kind of heart to heart on the matter, where his mother would have shared some sound advice as to what Castle should do with his present situation.

That would however open everyone else into the reality of the situation; Castle loved Becket and she was seeing someone else. The reality probably hurt more for Castle. Once it was out there, it meant that he would have to deal with it, on a grown up level. He would have to take responsibility for his emotions and deal with a broken heart. Becket understands where she stands an she acknowledges her emotions, but she also understands Castle on a bigger level. If he couldn't come to terms with their relationship on a more serious base, how could they actually make it more without complications. Either that or Beckett is taking the safe was out, she can't risk falling deeply in love with someone, it would show off her sensitive side too much, and with Demming she could hide it.

I have no problem with Demming, he seems cute enough to crush on, but I wouldn't want him the be the reason Castle and Beckett stay apart.

The actual case on the other hand had its moments. The double scam reminded me of an episode where two strangers decide to kill people unfamiliar to them respectively. Except this version dealt with two people who killed one person at different times in a day, kind of outlandish and cold. At least the scam was discovered by both and they were able to decipher the real killers in the case.Still the focus was on the Demming, Castle, and Beckett relationship. When Castle tested Beckett to see whether Demming was her boyfriend, she brushed it off with a 'It's none of your business' card. For a second I believed maybe her relationship with Demming was one for courtship, but it was sound, and that scene ender not only broke Castle's heart, but the majority of the audience as well.

Lexa

______________________

Four and a half Stars

Grade A-
______________________



Read Full Post

Glee: Season 1 Episode 17 'Bad Reputation' Review

Why didn't anyone suspect Quinn for being placed at the top of the list? Sure everyone else had motive, but Quinn obviously put her name on the top. She thinks very highly of herself as well, or would probably try anything to get noticed. Even the writers have scripted Quin in a way that gives her little screen time, so the audience feels the tension as well. When was the last time Quinn had her own solo?

Quinn was not the only one who felt like an outcast. What got into Rachel well enough for her bring 'slut' into her music. Although I believed the video was odd, I still thought Rachel was being unfair to the others she mislead. These three guys in her life are all that circulate her. Finn has his feelings he openly admits to her, her boyfriend, even though his intentions are questionable, he still carries the boyfriend label and Puck just wants to well go beyond the friendship zone with Rachel. In total, her video only came back to bite her in the as*.

I didn't like Jesse's excuse for breaking up with Rachel. I believed he didn't show much hurt, but more relief. We all know as an audience Jesse's intention, so does this give him the actual zeal for him to remain a part of Glee without having to play a part of Rachel's life. We haven't even gotten his true perception of his relationship with Rachel; whether or not it is sincere. I believe that Finn would be the first to forgive her, Puck probably was probably upset with his bruised ego.

Emma frankly surprised me here. She stood up for her morals and set the record straight with Will. If Sue hadn't bugged Will's place; under his bed and elsewhere, who knew how else Emma would have found out about his illicit affairs, will he or won't he go all the way. i can't believe that Emma is going through therapy to control her obsessive compulsions, but she surely tole Will off. The sound choices this time didn't leave an impact. Sue's video with Olivia Newton John, came off as a shocker, but brought on a lot of laughter with it. Sue was a bit misguided in her tendencies, brings forward her soft side. Sue's bond with her sister makes her more human than we actually thought she could be. It's funny that Will couldn't see that side to her, maybe he would be more understanding of confused to the character she brings to school.

Lexa

____________

Three Stars

Grade C+
____________


Read Full Post

Smallville: Season 9, Episode 19 'Sacrifice' Review

Zod has managed to bring a whole army of his people together, all for the sake of dominion over mankind. Is it really worth it? We all know where this is going next, it bothers me even further that Zod knows of the fortress' whereabouts, enough to do severe damage. What is Zod's strategy; a repeat of the future seen in Lois' vision? The only thing that surprised me most with this episode, was Faora and Zod's unborn child. It made me question where he stood with Tess and how serious was his relationship with Faora. Zod is a conflicted character, he once wanted to make a pact with Clark that included him in a brotherly relationship. Even if Clark was under the red kryptonite influence, Zod's intentions were clear, and his connection with Clark did prove to be sincere to a particular extent.

Zod's misguided approach to dealing with a traitor in his mind backfired. The most sincere moments created on Smallville was the faded heartbeat of Zod's unborn child. He murdered the woman closest to his heart, pressed his ears against her stomach and with his super hearing skills, witnessed two deaths by his hand. I expected Clark to intervene, I did not want Faora to leave. Although her past allegiance to Zod brought some questions to mind when her character was first introduced. Remember in the beginning when Faora was set on overthrowing Zod, her actions surprised me then, especially since she swore that she owed Zod everything for saving her life. Faora herself was conflicted from the moment she arrived. The cloned DNA does bring rise to perspective and the first child of Krypton would have been interesting to follow through as a storyline. Sadly her death struck up more vengeance for the Kyptonians who raged war.

An episode without Lois creates a serious theme to the series, gearing it toward its finale goal. This is where Zod, Checkmate, Krypton, Tess, probably even Lex comes into play. It's no surprise that Tess and Chloe got thrown together, all for the sake of Checkmate. It's funny, I didn't ever believe that Tess would come off as this cowardice character, on the run. Her alliance with Checkmate made her seem weak that she would ever associate herself with something other than her own scheme. The chip inserted in her sort of reminded me of a scene from 'The Mummy', but that was just a humorous aspect. Still Tess has lost her edge, especially since she was well and ready to die.

We saw an old acquaintance who Tess shot in 'Pandora'; the computer geek who fire-walled(?) Chloe. Strange enough he reminded me of Dr. Evil from 'Austin Powers' or even Seth Green his associate,(we make fun wherever we can), but he did have this comic book look. His revenge towards Tess was not acquired. When Tess trusted Chloe to remove the tracking device, she expected that Chloe would have let her die. I was even surprised when Chloe contemplated on leaving her lifeless body there as well. This has shown how much Chloe has changed throughout each season. The fact that she just considered it, every few seconds that went into her changing her mind represented a changed Chloe. Still I can't imagine why the writers chose to make Tess lose her edge, even if she grasped a speck of her tendency to validate.

As for the ending, it was expected. Zod lied through his teeth, but that was nothing new. His madness and self pity is what makes Zod the character he is. Green Arrow was able to get a speck of insight into how Zod thinks, but I hope Ollie's okay. I know for a fact Zod's relationship with Tess is tarnished, since his heart was preoccupied with loving another. Still who would really want to have that kind of love from Zod?

Lexa

___________

Four Stars

Grade B-
___________



Read Full Post

24: Season 8, Episode 21 'Day 8: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM' Review

Did Jack need to take Dana Walsh's life? Was it really necessary? Her life was pathetic already, you have to admit, always getting shoved around and beaten up like a punching back, it came to a point where I just felt sorry for her. Still couldn't the writers find another way to get her out of the picture. A jump into deep pool with the uncertainty of her survival, a sudden leap to her death, but no body found. Come on writers were is the suspense! So who is going to take the wrap for Kevin and his friend's murder? Cole? He could barely speak two words without regret, and now the evidence Jack discovered showed Cole that Dana sincerely loved him, and was willing to surpass the traitor motto, to be with him.

I am not sure whether I like how far off track 24 has delivered these plots. The constant loopholes are still evident; the body Walsh stuck in Hastings office without recognition or subtle mention even now, the previous president Logan's absurd hold over President Taylor, Renee's sudden death and Kanin's recovery, Jack on the run again, they all don't add up. I believe that this day should have been shorter, and had the ended it earlier when they captured the first Russian on Renee's behalf, I would have been okay with that. Unfortunately we still have to tolerate a merry-go-round of events until this day is over.

Jack is now working with an old friend who can get him all the goods to facilitate his run-around. All that's well and good, but where does this reporter come in? I knew we would see her face again, but I thought the writers would reveal that she id have a part to play in Hassan's assassination plot. I still didn't buy that she was the outside woman on that end, without an ulterior motive. Jack contacted her with the full intention that others would be listening. At first I knew Jack wouldn't play it that safe without a plan, but when he walked into the shopping place to meet the reporter, I thought he was nuts, right up until his partner in crime caught the Russian off guard and Jack began skilfully avoiding the cameras.

I still had a lot of questions as to how CTU lost Jack, was he really that good and didn't they have other guards at all exits? Pretty reckless security. It would have been a huge advantage if someone figured out Jack's plan before hand, but to have Jack still escape. The shoot-out in the mall was skillful, but the risk was pretty weak as well. I don't know what these few moments are lacking, but there seems to be a void. Jack leaves with the same Russian responsible for Renee's death, accuses him of making him suffer for Renee's death after possibly having a clear shot on Jack. Not that we didn't see how upset the Russian was when he couldn't shoot Jack in the first place, and the many shots afterward. Still Jack took too much pleasure in torturing this guy mercilessly and taking his life to gut out a digested SIM card. The torture scenes are cold lately, first Dana, now this guy, and I did not like the new Jack that seemed to be so relentless with his actions.

For the first time, we gain some insight into previous president Logan's true intentions. He wants tot be recognized, he wants his tarnished President imagine to be replaced with honor and integrity, but no matter how hard he tries, his ingenuity would always shine. He is too full of himself, really. Did he really think that a simple acknowledgment from the Presidential staff with respect to the treaty, would suddenly wipe his criminal slate clean. He is sadly misleading himself if he believes that he would get more than a shrub of recognition. President Taylor had to force a whisper of gratitude, especially since she now has her hands dirty.

I believe if everyone were honest with Mrs. Hassan and given the Russians' the publicity of their actions, the Peace Agreement could stand strong. Everyone would have won and Mrs. Hassan would have had her revenge, and now her anger falls on President Taylor for this messy cover up, which is bound to be blown out of proportion. President Taylor needs counsel and since Kanin gave in his resignation, she has no one. It would have been courteous on Kanin's part had he brought the President's ex-husband into counsel her. She might not listen to Kanin but her ex should be able to bring things into perspective for her. We don't really know where Taylor stands with her family, but now would have been a good time to acknowledge what happened to Olivia, I am certainly curious.

Everything else seems unnecessary. The hours are dragging on and on, so for the sake of me just tolerating two more characters again, this run around needs to end.

Lexa

____________________

Two and a half Stars

Grade D
____________________



Read Full Post

Castle: Season 2 Episode 22 'Food to Die For' Review

So we get our fair share of what high school was like for Beckett and a taste the type of friends she associated herself with. Surely what an awful way to have a reunion though, on a murder case. It's goo to see that Beckett had a feminine side to her, or at least embraced her girly-ness in the past. So Beckett and Madison don't seem to have much in common years later, except for their past friendship. Even though Beckett made an attempt to rekindle her friendship with Madison in the end, I doubt we would be seeing much of her. I was also glad Madison didn't turn out to be the killer. It would be a shame since she and Beckett bonded and then to have the cheesy 'bad guy' revelation be placed on her.

Castle's desire for food and taste for adventure was put to the test, but I believed that Beckett was too eager to break up Madison and Castle's date. It really looked as though Beckett overstepped when she chose to arrest Madison on her date with Castle, right after she asked Beckett if it was okay. What ever happened with that guy she and Beckett fought over in high school? I guess it doesn't matter now, but the real question should be, what juicy details does Madison have on Beckett? Who was Beckett like in high school really? Maybe it does not matter since she's overly set on keeping it in the past.

I am more concerned about this relationship with Demming. Castle obviously holds his resentment towards the union, and the final scene where he watches Beckett have fun with someone else that wasn't him, truly plunged a big one in Castle's heart. Castle was downright depressed watching Beckett and Demming bond. It even put a hamper on his home life. Does Beckett know what she is doing to him, by falling for another man right in front of Castle? I know Beckett is taking the safe road, probably hoping that Castle remains the insecure, unstable and uncertain person in order to make a transgression into a new relationship possible.

I still believe that Demming is the decoy that gets Castle to admit his true feelings for Becket. This guy comes out of nowhere on the part of the writers, all for appearances and looks. I don't buy it. He's going to play some crucial part in the script, we just don't know which part yet.

Lexa

__________

Four Stars

Grade B-
__________


Read Full Post

Private Practice: Season 3 Episode 22 'In the Name of Love' Review

It's almost without words that one can share, when the first time we see Maya, she is involved in a fatal accident. Who knew? Or who would have ever imagined, that the time Naomi spent away from her daughter, would be the moments she regrets the most. Maya is far along, her belly is swollen with life, so where does this leave her little baby? Would Addison be forced to operate, or even choose? Is Maya going to be okay?

I remember embracing how well Addison and Sam handled being friends again, and how happy he was to realize that Maya was in labor, but what happened? I knew something didn't smell right. Maya was in such pain, I kept thinking why was she alone, and what if Dell wasn't around to take care of her? Where was her husband during all of this? Private Practice has managed to create yet another heart rendering episode that brings you closer to the screen having your mouth open in awe for the moment. No one is truly safe as a character role, we almost lost Violet last season and now we have yet another potential loss.

On a side note, we embrace the continuation after the court battle between Violet and Pete for custody over Lucas. Violet is still upset with Cooper and Pete still harbors his stance on whether or not Violet could spend time with Lucas. Both issues are resolved in both favors. Cooper regains Violet's friendship and Violet some visit time with Lucas, under Pete's best wishes. It only took a heart felt apology and a slight notice towards her imperfections. Then again no one is truly perfect, not even Pete. Just take a look at every one's relationship on this series.

Even Sheldon has his weak moments, just look at what his emotions for Charlotte are doing to him. Sheldon had to stop an elevator to get advice from Addison. Her advice simply told him to 'go for it' with Charlotte, but that just goes to show that even the therapists need advice once in a while, and that they do not have all the answers. Although Sheldon should have been smart enough to realize that Charlotte was still in love with Cooper, and if Cooper were to snap out of his depressing trance to realize what Charlotte meant to him, he would try to win Charlotte back. Charlotte would inadvertently choose Cooper, so I believe that Sheldon is a very lonely guy. He has lost a lot, even before he had it; he lost a potential family with Violet and could possibly lose Charlotte.

That was an exceptional speech he gave Charlotte, for protesting to love her the way she deserved to be love. What woman wouldn't want to hear those words? It was just coming from the wrong guy at the moment, but if Cooper shot Charlotte with a 'I want to take care of you the rest of your life', I am certain Charlotte would choose Cooper in a second before he finished his speech. It's sad when the heart chooses something that just wouldn't go away, it fears embracing anything new, especially when Charlotte wasn't truly over Cooper tot begin with. I am happy Violet told Cooper to go after 'his girl', but I was kind of sad for Sheldon.

I feel sorry for Fife, even if he was acting like a jerk, did he say he loved Naomi. Wow that seems to be the topic of the episode, the title should be 'Love is in the Air, Literally'. Honestly, I don't understand Naomi's relationship with White. Did they make Naomi and White begin dating just so Naomi could take care of him at his weakest moment. The writers obviously want to get rid of White's character, that is unless Fife's procedure works.

As for Addison and Sam, while dealing with kidnapped patient. Private Practice, by the way sold that case solid, beautiful acting from all parties. Sam and Addison eradicated their tension long enough, to be faced by yet another tragedy. We all know this places Dell in a hot seat. Let's just hope Maya's okay.

Lexa

___________

Five Stars

Grade A+
___________




Read Full Post

The Mentalist: Season 2 Episode 21 ' 18-5-4' Review

This was an unusual start to a 'The Mentalist' episode. At one point I wondered whether or not I had the right show on, getting ready to adjust the remote until Jane and Lisbon presented their familiar faces. Yeah, what was with the clowns? Did they just want to get a laugh out of us? I guess it worked when one of them came on to Van Pelt.

How sick would a wife be for killing her husband for the money? Of course this is not the first story we have heard, but it was truly heart rendering when the wife was revealed as the one responsible for her husband's murder. Pretty well planned out as well; she dressed up as a clown, butchered him, then cut off his finger as a somewhat key to an already tarnished treasure. There was obviously no love there, from the beginning to the end. Even though she testified to marrying the 'geek' after all her friends teased her, it is now apparent that she married the 'geek', because she believed one day he would be smart enough to create a wealthy plan. Sad Really.

What really drives a person to be so cold, the money? Jane has been going head to head with the CBI for moths perhaps, so what is his drive. There has been no apparent update with regards to the 'Red John' case. The writers have deliberately chosen to keep that topic away from the audience for a good while, but why? Are they waiting for the right moment to drop the shoe on us. I always had a feeling Hightower's sudden appearance would impact on the outcome of that sensitive case to Jane. Hightower has proven herself worthy to the unit; hardcore, yet a decent ally. At least there is more to that story.

This entire episode was a money, high-tech game of merry-go-round. Jane set the odds against him by ruining the hacking machine, but what good would court do Jane? Has he paid off his last debt? Jane has moved in such a way that he comes off selfless and fearless all the same. Yet when it comes to home and Lisbon is close to his heart, he softens. This has been apparent recently, but how much time does Jane spend lying down in that couch of his? Remember when he helped Lisbon find the bomb from pure memory last episode? He was on the couch then, it seems as though when things are slow in the office, he just sits back and relaxes as though he didn't have one worry in the world. I can't believe how sympathetic Lisbon is to Jane, I mean she lets anything slide when it comes to his remarks and sudden twists in emotions.

Lisbon's relationship with Jane is an understandable one, and she has in her own self grown to love Jane, which is why she understands him so well. Hightower on the other hand wants to have Jane on a leash, at the same time watch him while he does his tricks and gets the job done. I am now curious into Van Pelt and Rigsby, they obviously treat each other like high school crushes, still emotionally involved. After falling for someone, it's kind of hard to tell yourself to turn away and pretend as though they have no feelings and the 'I love you's' to go away. Who knows? Chop it up to Jane for playing a game verbally, who won again? Oh yeah, go Jane, please don't break anything else.

Lexa

__________

Four Stars

Grade B-
__________



Read Full Post

Glee: Season 1 Episode 16 'Home' Review

Brittany: "I'm sure my cat's been reading my diary."

I don't think I recognized Brittany that much in the earlies, all I remember was her association with Santana. Now Brittany's limited lines are what makes a decent appeal for each episode. They are entirely uncanny, in a so awful, but you can't believe you are still laughing, kind of way.

'Home' played on the actual meaning of what a home conveys. A place of warmth, meaning and understand, somewhere we could feel like we belong somewhere. Which is probably why Kurt is trying his best to create a home of his own, but honestly he was pushing too hard on the Finn ideology. Did he really believe that if he brought Finn's mother together with his dad, a family would be there in the making. Had Kurt not have his ulterior motives, that entire fix up would not have been so weird. Had Kurt probably focused his attention on making his father happy, he wouldn't feel a sudden loss when his father began paying Finn some attention he wish he would pay him.

The not being so straight has been a topic that has been played down on Glee, as with the tension Kurt creates with Finn. His 'A House is not a Home' version did place a certain light his way. The music itself is built up with several connotations. Anyone could have a house, but not everyone could feel at home. This probably signified how conflicted Kurt feels at home with his father, and his need tot have a father son moment, which Finn took up from under him. I am not too keen with the constant googly eyes Kurt throws Finn's way, but as a lad Kurt surely has a long way to go in life.

As for Finn, he too has his family issues. He is not over his father's absence from his life, and it makes sense why he wouldn't be okay with his mother moving on from the memories shared with their father. Finn has dealt with a lot of pain and mistrust, which is why the first sign of change sends his radars up. Question though, speaking of home, where is Quinn's home? There has been no mention of her location since the last time it was established that her parents kicked her out and it earned her a temporary stay at Finn's home, which she was absent at. I believe their writers are holding out on us for a reason, as it is not like them to hold on to a crucial plot without full explanation.

Quinn, however has presented herself in a different light. Having a child has surely changed her perspective on things. it took a lot out of her to help Mercedes out of her trying time. Mercedes is a strong character, so the mere fact that she was able to fall whim to Sue's cheerios rules, showed her human side. It is a lot of pressure being in a Glee club that is underrated at their school, but joining the cheerios comes with it's conditions to fitting in. I was happy she was able to surpass an experience like that for the hope that it would make her character stronger. Sue on the other hands comes off as a mean b*tch, yet the way Jane Lynch delivers those lines makes you sit back and admire how much you despise her character.

Even if you want to dislike Sue, her sister's background brings light to human side and why she was able to make exceptions to who she brought on to her team. Will and April Rhodes' 'Fire' take was well in sync. Their emotional connection was evident the first time she guest starred on Glee. When the writers began opening them up to each other as two lost people searching for some meaning in their lives, I almost believed that they would push it beyond what it should have been. I still thought that Rhodes and Will sleeping in the same bed was a bit too far, even if nothing happened passed that. It makes you wonder where Will stands with Emma as a relationship, especially since he was well and ready to propose at one point. Emma still doesn't know about his illustrious kissing spree with a particular teacher, and yet she has to deal with another incident like this.

I give the writers credit, they are able to create exactly how a boy would behave while he is trying to become a man, because truly has Will ever grown up while he was with Terri. Terri only reminded him of his school days and being away from that makes him accept reality for what it really is. Somehow, even though there were some highlight musical moments, I more appreciated the emotional impact brought on by this episode. There were many character developments and revelations, but that's what added insight to the series this round.

Lexa

_______________________

Three and a half Stars

Grade C-
_______________________


Read Full Post

Private Practice: Season 3 Episode 21 'War' Review

War, why war at all? One thing I appreciate about Private Practice, is their ability to create the most unthinkable and possibly unlikeable story lines and make music with it. I always believed that I would find Pete's sudden fatherhood a bit cheesy, but he surpassed my doubt within him. Pete has proven himself to be a good father, and I believed Violet rushed into court to fast. She should have taken things slow first. As a mother, that's not much to ask, but she cannot expect that saying she is ready to be a mother, would mean that she is. What Pete is probably afraid of, is that Violet would fall whim to her past behavioral tendencies and leave Lucas. I believe that Pete is afraid of losing Violet and probably himself in the process.

Addison mentioned that Pete loved Violet, which came ff as a shocker to me at first, because went though Violet and Pete started on the physical side, things between them did become emotional, besides the fact that they were friends first. I admired the writers' ability to convey each storyline in a split framework, as though they were telling a story from different angles until the pieces came together. We open with Addison and Violet awkwardly sharing a moment in the restroom together, then Addison on the stand testifying against Violet and Violet getting ready to go to court. We, as the audience figure out how these pieces fit together and eventually we understand why Violet is upset with Cooper, and what was actually said in his testimony. Sure Cooper admitted that Violet was an unfit mother, but is 'unfit' the right word, and did Cooper deserve that slap.

Even though Violet was ready to be a mother, she still needed time to heal. You can't just rip off the plaster and expect the wound to go away, it would still be there, and you would still have to take care of it and probably put a new plaster on it for the time being. Pete understood that, but I believed that he was being a bit obnoxious in the process, as though the case for him was selfish and of his own agenda. Although I did like his lawyer, she knew her way around the courtroom very well, being a fan of 'lawyer themed' series myself. So this courtroom appeal was a bit of a relief from the constant medical sob stories they keep throwing or way. I was not too happy with the way Violet spoke to Addison, as though she was out to get her. It was amazing how something simple, turned into a huge mess of a story.

Poor Lucas, while he's probably at home sleeping, his parents are battling over him in a courtroom, out for blood as the case may be. Addison was the only neutral one, I honestly believed that she didn't see Violet as ready to take on the responsibility of a mother, but it was not her call to make. Addison seemed to be solely interested in Lucas, I mean really couldn't they have talked things out instead. Look at what the inability to communicate cost these relationships. I believe even Naomi's surprise visit was well executed by the writers, and it is nice to see that her relationship with Sam is still open tot communication.

Addison and Naomi on the other hand should talk things out and be adults about the situation. Even if Sam and Addison developed something for each other, there is nothing really she can do to prevent an emotional relationship from happening. She shouldn't be completely okay with her best friend and her ex, for the mere fact that she is human, but ignoring it would only put a damper on all her relationship. Surprisingly, she was the only person that really came true for Violet in the end, but a lot of good that did for her, Pete still wounded up getting custody. I believe Pete was angry, but I don't believe he didn't love Violet when she asked him, he just couldn't trust her.

Lexa

___________________

Four and half Stars

Grade A-
___________________



Read Full Post

24: Season 8, Episode 19 - 20 'Day 8: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM' Review

These two hours grouped together unravels many plots, that no one would ever imagine possible. As the day grows, being in Bauer's shoes proves less and less desirable. I am still disappointed that they decided to take Renee's life, for the sake of Jack's vengeance. Couldn't they have put her in a stable condition, cause her to have a false alarm like Kanin. Renee and Bauer's story wasn't even well established. This intense emotion Bauer feels over Renee's death is understandable given the behind the curtain relationship, but was it the first time they got together? The pieces just don't add up to create this love story the writer feels the audience should appreciate.

The last time we saw Renee and Jack, Renee was wishing Jack farewell as he went to get treatment in a hospital. That's just the thing, Jack's condition was rushed through. Has he fully recovered, are there any side-effects? I know this is the narrative version of a typical series, but simple gestures could shed some light and add more validity to a plot that we can buy. 24 in effect has lost its edge slightly. The suspense has proven more predictable and the characters; unlikeable. I really cannot figure out Dana Walsh, or why the Russians would still keep her alive, therefore implicating themselves in the process. After Walsh served no purpose, they should have sent the crazy Russian guy with the rifle that killed Renee, to cover up their tracks.

Now we have a crazed President Logan carrying the evil laugh mentality, he obviously has his own agenda, but why? Why bother at all to be a part of something he was put to shame for? Does he believe a simple good dead would erase his past mistakes? He must be truly lonely, because there is now mention of his ex, Martha, or even a mention of a significant other. President Logan's reputation is severely tarnished and the only connections he has managed to maintain are those that play the dirty field. I am appalled as to why President Taylor would even subject to his crazy whims. He acts more like a lad still on the verge of puberty, yet isn't and has to take the role of a grown man, which proves great difficulty.

President Taylor is losing her edge, and Kanin sees it. His resignation was slightly unexpected though, I'd hoped he would stick around to act as a moral compass, now she has no real objectivity in her decisions and is following through with Logan's dirty politics. She would succumb to her very own selfish whims, to facilitate Bauer's manhunt, the same man responsible for saving her life and his country several times over. Sure Bauer has gone a little nuts, but that doesn't change what he did in the past. I always admired President Taylor for her modesty, sincerity and geniality, but she has lost sight of over all of the above.

What kind of torture were Logan's guys subjecting Walsh to. Somehow, it made no sense to see her be tortured like that, sort have brought on a yawn in the mix. The writers have lost their creative touch and someone should be persecuted due to the amount of abuse Walsh endured, during the last few hours. It's amazing how she didn't suffer a concussion when Jack badgered her head on the table in the holding room. Then to have these guys attempt to stifle her in the process, all for what. Information is power, but Walsh still didn't come off as the type to work with the enemy. I somehow wondered whether she was being sincere when she told Ortiz that she loved him. If she were a true spy, why would she spend time falling for another guy? Why would she spend any time away from doing her job, was it all for appearances?

I am still disappointed that they did not even find the dead parole officer Walsh hid in Hastings' office. How long should it take before that is revealed, at least for Chloe to acknowledge a strange smell coming from her office. Walsh's death in the end was truly terrible to watch. Why bother Jack, why bother at all? His rage has taken a piece out of his judgment. This rage that suddenly gives him the urge to shoot everyone one that ever spoke, interacted or had any dealings with the Russians, all for the sake of Renee who, when not too long along wanted to give her some space. Oh Jack, you truly disappoint me.

Lexa

Grading scheme for both...

___________

Two Stars

Grade D-
___________


Read Full Post

The Mentalist: Season 2 Episode 20 'Red All Over' Review

Lisbon: "I understand it's a compulsion you're not fully in control of, but I wish you would try. It would make our work a lot easier if you did, try."

Go Lisbon for trying to get Jane to settle down his obnoxious side and show a little attempt, good attempt I should say.

Jane: "Did you see that"
Lisbon: "What"
Jane: "Right outside that window, it's a pink unicorn. Amazing!"
Lisbon: "Now you're hallucinating"
Jane: "No, no, no look it's right outside the window, seriously look it's a unicorn!"
Little Girl (Ashley Herrington): "I want to see!"

For a moment I almost agreed with Lisbon on the hallucinating part, or a smack on Jane's head for trying to pull a stunt on Lisbon. That girl definitely came out of no where, at one point I wondered what was her role in everything, since she was placed as a focal character. That scene between her and Lisbon was a burden to watch, fingers crossed them, dealing with the bomb and trying to pull Ashley away to safety. How many of us shouted, 'just get out of there Lisbon!' or even 'Come on, just crawl under there, grab her by the foot and get out!'. Most of us would agree with Jane 'Bad Girl' Lisbon, for trying to disarm a bomb when she had no real clue what she was doing.

I have to admit, that look in Jane's eyes when he waited in hope to hear Lisbon's voice was priceless. It was not as though he heard a huge explosion and the sound of a busy tone either, so Lisbon would have done something, but what? Boy oh boy did Lisbon take a huge risk, but she was rewarded to the fullest in the end. Her selfless actions gave her good recognition, to get Hightower off of her back for once. Lisbon seems to really respect Hightower as well, even though she goes all the way to stick up for Jane, she also holds a decent respectful tone to those in charge; a quality Jane seems to lack.

It's a sure goo thing Hightower views Jane's skills as helpful, because if Jane ended up on the wrong end, Hightower would personally see that Jane was removed from the unit. Hightower like seeing people have fear instilled in them when she passes. Her authoritative figure gives her a little rush whenever she sees someone quiver in front of her. So far Jane has proven to be a challenge in that area, which is probably why she likes him so much, but it is an even bigger challenge to keep Jane in check while he gets the necessary results. I still don't know Hightower's story, which i hope the writers would explain later down in the plot.

What about Van Pelt and Rigsby? Where do they stand as a couple? I doubt it would be easy for them to move on from each other. I expect that the writers would place another love interest in the mile to cause conflict, because their relationship is unresolved. They admitted to loving each other, which meant that it was serious. I still don't understand this rule, I believe Hightower, although I doubt she would, but she should change, or more adjust the concept of the rule against dating coworkers. 'If coworkers were to get involved, you would have to consider these conditions a, b, c...' something like that. The heart wants what it wants, and a mere separation would not change things. When Hightower suggested Van Pelt go on an assignment with Rigsby, I saw the sad expression on Grace's face, as though it would have been awkward for her, even though it really wasn't. I believe she just felt intimidated by Hightower's remark then.

The opening scene was the most overwhelming graphic scenes of presenting a case to be solved. What a terrible way to see someone go right in the middle of a party. The grandfather acted pretty calm in the beginning after being revealed as the killer in the end, must have been a cold moment for him. HE must have known that if he survived an attack, he would have named him as the person responsible, so why be so kind in welcoming him to incriminate himself? That's a mystery, but the scenario Jane set up around the granddaughter seeing the entire murder was apparently a terrible move on Jane's part that made him get a slap in return.

So this was the typical, stepmother sleeping with the son of her husband and the husband who kills his son because of the illustrious affair, theme. Rarely have those moments, but it is a shame that a father would take his own son's life because of it, more like the wrong son. The other son, who proved to be more the downer in his father's eyes and being the one sleeping with his father's wife, well poor lighting in his father's eyes may have earned him his life. Just a poor case in judgement on his part.

Lexa

___________

Four Stars

Grade B+
___________


Read Full Post

LATE NOTICE: Reviews should return by Monday May 10th (Stay Tuned).

Hey guys, it's about time I posted this notice. I am just swamped with work, but that's besides the point. I am still working on getting all reviews up to date, which I guarantee would be up fully by next week. Most of my posts are still in draft, so I have them mostly ready.

Hopefully by Monday 10th, things would begin as normal on a weekly regular. I would also tweet you guys when I am going to post them. I also have some new series reviews in store so stay tuned. I apologize for any inconvenience. Thank You.

Lexa
Read Full Post