Proof You Watch Too Much TV

Just Like on TV

2007-12-09T16:01:00.000-06:00

HIATUS.

Interlude

2007-11-21T18:46:00.001-06:00

Dear Coach Taylor,

I love Dillon, TX almost as much as you do. Maybe more, because aside from everything, I feel I fully appreciate ALL of Matt Saracen and Tim Riggins' various talents and abilities off the football field. BUT, as a caring, concerned ... let's just say ... friend, I have a few things I'd like to put on your radar.

First, your QB1 is making out with his grandmother's nurse. And said grandmother's nurse is giving The Saracen, "the nod." You know what I mean. It's dangerous. As Ross Gellar once shouted at Rachel and Phoebe, "DANGER!" I mean, let's face it, the nurse is better than the Texas haired cheerleader with awesome car knowledge, but still, her presence is cliched and undesired. Got me? I think it's time for one of your famous father figure Matt chats.

Also, Riggins, whom you threw off the team and are now watching for signs of loyalty and desire to be a Panther, is homeless. He's living with a guy who has dog pens or... something. I really think you should take him in and let him see how the Taylor house is run. Except maybe keep him away from Julie and Tami's sister. He's a charmer, that one.

Then there's the matter of John from Cincinnati. He's trying to get in your daughter's pants and if there's anything we learned from Mary Kay LeTourneau and Dawson's Creek, this particular breed of storyline never really works that well (worse, it's just a truly terrible cop out). Just my observation, of course, but I feel it's warranted.

On that note, I'd like to bring up the number of new characters making their presence known in the Lone Star State. Tami's sister, Glen, Landry's dad, Lyla's prison pal, the pervert teacher, the soccer coach, the nurse, the big haired cheerleader being used to make Julie jealous ... I mean, really. Street and Riggins got shafted in this episode to make room for people we care less about. Granted, if any show can handle it, FNL can, but I really don't want to deal with these people when those I know and love are being pushed to the wayside.

Lastly, I'd like to talk to you about Lance. He killed someone. And he dumped the body. Then his dad helped him cover it up. Reeeeaaaaalllly not a good call considering the number of procedurals I've seen where those in this situation get caught. You should talk to Lance about his crime - it was self defense - and what it means that his police officer father just helped conceal a crime.

I want you to know I bring these things up out of love - for you and your family and town. While Friday Nights are still AMAZING, even with these small annoyances, I fear they could lead to bigger problems in the future. You're a leader - you're THE MAN - I charge you with directing the path.

Clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose!

The Office: 4x08

2007-11-21T18:04:00.000-06:00

The Office

4x08
The Deposition
and
QUOTES

What do you do when your favorite television show airs an absolute gem of an episode and then goes off the air indefinitely?

Tell me!

I chose to put off watching it as long as possible, because honestly, this week was funny, heartfelt and a little bit of everything I love about Dunder Mifflin, but it wasn't anything akin to a season finale. I refuse to accept it as a season finale. Or acknowledge it as one. The entire 22 minutes, all I could think was - what if The Strike steals my season. Where will it pick up next year? Will they skip all those months ahead? What about the tease we were given for the next episode - the one where they had their best table read ever?

So, Michael. See, I love him. I really, truly do. From the cold open with the Post-Its (hysterical), to the deposition and his diary, he has absolutely NO social skills, but if you're loyal to him, he's loyal - to an almost creepy fault - to you. It should be interesting to see how (if we ever get to) his actions at the deposition filter down into what he and Jan have going on. Plus, I laughed for days at some of his lines (see quotes post) - and then, the pushing Toby's tray off the table. CLASSIC. You know I love some Michael/Toby hate and just when poor Toby was sharing his heart ... Michael reconfirms all the reasons why Toby asked Kelly what it felt like to slap her boss.

Jim and Pam are still the cutest. And even if her boyfriend is 12, Pam has it a million times better than Kelly, who has to resort to talking smack - not trash - in order to feel good about her relationship. And the guys, all they wanted to do was play... I definitely enjoyed the Dwight commentary and expertise on the game and the tag at the end with him and Mose was hysterical. Alas, if I dwell to long on any of this goodness, it makes my heart ache with emptiness.

***

Jan: We went over it carefully … and just so that we wouldn’t leave anything up to chance or Michael’s judgement.

Pam: Sometimes I bring him juice. My boyfriend is twelve.

Kelly: What has two skinny chicken legs and sucks at ping pong?

Kelly: I don’t talk trash. I talk smack. They’re totally different. Trash talk is all hypothetical, like, “Your momma is so fat, she could eat the Internet.” But smack talk is, happening like, right now. Like, “you’re ugly and I know it for a fact, ’cause I got the evidence. Right there.”

Pam: Kelly's trash talking me because Darryl's beating you.
Jim: What? Seriously? What's she saying.

Kelly: Your boyfriend is so weak, he needs steroids just to watch baseball.

Kelly: Were Jim’s parents first cousins that were also bad at ping pong?

Jim: Bring me players.

Michael: Are you renewing your divorce vows before my deposition?
Toby: Michael I'm your HR rep. I'm on your side.
Michael: Never. I want him gone. I don't talk until he leaves.

Jan: People underestimate Michael. There are plenty of things that he is well above average at.

Lawyer: How long have you known the plaintiff?
Michael: I haven’t actually seen it, but I have seen The Firm, and I’m planning on renting The Pelican Brief.

Lawyer: How long have you known Ms. Levinson?
Michael: Six years and two months.
Lawyer: And you were directly under her the entire time?
Michael: That’s what she said.
Lawyer: Excuse me?
Michael: (slowly) That’s what she said.

Michael: Come again? That’s what she said.

Michael: Delivery’s all wrong. She’s butchering it.

Lawyer: Did Ms. Levinson ever say why she thought she was being fired?
Michael: She thought it had to do with the twins. That's what, I call them.
Lawyer: Can you be more specific. Who are the twins?
Michael: To be delicate, they hang off milady’s chest. They … make milk.
Lawyer: You don’t have to go any further.

Michael: And frankly, the timing was nothing short of predominant.

Michael: Well, it depends on how you define “begin.”

Michael: Line.
Lawyer: I’m sorry, what?
Executive: He asked for a line, like in a play.

Court reporter: [reading transcript] Mr. Scott do you realize you just contradicted yourself. I did? Yes you did. Can I go to the bathroom? No. I really have to I've been drinking lots of water. You went five minutes ago. That wasn't to go to the bathroom that was to get out of a question. You still have to answer it. First can I go to the bathroom. No.

Michael: I throw myself at the mercy of the deposition.

Lawyer (reading Michael’s diary): “Tan almost everywhere. Jan almost everywhere. Hee hee.”

Lawyer (reading Michael’s diary): “More tomorrow. XOXO, Michael.”

Toby: Um … could you make it 11?

Lawyer (reading Michael’s diary): “Just as hot as Jan, but in a different way.”

Michael (reading Jan’s statement): “I am out of carrots. I am out of sticks.”

Dwight: He has gone from completely hopeless to simply miserable.

Dwight: He works here, dumb ass.

Lawyer (reading David Wallace’s statement): “What do you want me to say? C’mon, he’s a nice guy.”

Kelly: The floppy-haired girl you date won a point.

Michael: You expect to get screwed by your company. But you never expect to get screwed by your girlfriend.

Head's up...

2007-11-15T14:46:00.000-06:00

I'm leaving for Birmingham and Atlanta at 5:15 today, so the likelihood of an update before Sunday is minimal, at best.

It's already been determined I will not be able to catch the (I refuse to call it Season Finale) last Season 4 episode - for now - of The Office until I get home. And while a plan is already in place to watch Friday Night Lights (with two of my obsessive friends from the Facebook group) at its regularly scheduled time, I'm not sure I'll have access to a computer, as I don't own a laptop and don't expect anyone to have theirs with them at the hotel. If I find out differently, perhaps I'll be able to make an FNL post, but no promises!

Hope you'll forgive me, but this trip is essential. As in, fun for me.

I'll be hanging out with my girlfriends at "The Swell Season" show in Atlanta on Saturday night. I kicked myself for missing their show in LA this summer, and wasn't about to pass up a second opportunity, so thank goodness for TIVO and shows streaming on the Internet (hear that, AMPTP).

If you've never heard of "The Swell Season," grab the soundtrack to the movie, Once. Listen. Be mesmerized. (And then check out Glen's band, "The Frames.") And if you haven't seen this movie, it needs to be at the TOP of your DVD list!

Once, the Movie
The Swell Season

Okay, gotta go pack!

How many more do we get?

2007-11-15T02:00:00.000-06:00

From what I've gathered via Ausiello, Spoilerfix and various show-specific sites, here's how many episodes we have left of the following (give or take), before the Writer's Strike eats them.

Monday:
Chuck - 5 more
How I Met Your Mother - ?
Heroes - 3 more
Samantha Who - 7 more
Journeyman - ?

Tuesday:
Reaper - between 2 and 4 more
House - 5 more

Wednesday:
Pushing Daisies - 3 more
Private Practice - 3 or 4 more
Gossip Girl - 5 more

Thursday:
The Office - 1 more (cue gnashing of teeth)
Grey's Anatomy - 4 more

Friday:
Friday Night Lights - 9 more

Sunday:
Brothers and Sisters - 5 more

--

So, about 5 more weeks of solid television before it all starts to taper off. Thanks goodness FNL gets it done and will be with us well into the new year - just in time for LOST to begin. And then end again. (Don't get me started right now.)

Random Round-up.

2007-11-15T01:19:00.000-06:00

Chuck: I'm still lovin' this show. It's a little bit of everything - action, drama, romance, fantasy and comedy. Geez, Levi cracks me up. He's just so... lovable and adorkable. Perfect casting on their part because I watch him and think, "Man, he's just so ... sincere." It's sweet, really. Plus, come on, last night we had R Bils and Marshall Flinkman in the same episode (who else was cracking up at the gymnast routine?), so I really don't see how they can go wrong. Casey continues to grow on me, simply because I totally understand his complete exasperation in everything and everyone. But my poor Chuck, secret bound and hung up on his romantic cover. Really, Sarah, did you have to lie ... even if you are immune to the Veritaserum poison? Tell Chuckie you like him. You know you wanna.

Gossip Girl: Dang Josh Schwartz and his teenage soap operas. Seriously, there is about as much integrity of story in this show as there is in my pinkie ... but I just can't stop.

Pushing Daisies: Top of my list show, but odd. Honestly, PD is one of a kind unique and quirky, which I love. The dialogue slaps you - quick, funny and sarcastic - in the best way and Lee Pace's delivery of Ned is ... well, I think the whole world has a crush on him. I'm also a fan of the narrator. Love him. Especially when he comments on the story. All that said, I don't necessarily find something to say about PD each week. Mainly because watching it is an escape from my escape. Sure, there are things to comment on, but I know the story of The Pie Hole. I know Ned and Chuck are in love and that Emerson is unabashedly annoyed by everything (another trait I identify with), while Olive pines away for The Piemaker. What keeps me coming each week is that little tag of hope at the end, where Ned and Chuck are the only ones in the room. Romantic. That's what this show is! But not cheesy. Romantic without gouda - the best possible kind.

Private Practice: Watching for Violet and Cooper.

House: 4x07

2007-11-13T21:13:00.000-06:00

HOUSE

4x07
Ugly

More Chase this week - good start. But honestly, after finishing, I'm more interested in discussing next week's preview than this week's episode (House collapsing, 13 with tremors, Criss Angel wannabe) - even though there were some fabulous moments tonight (quotes below).

Speaking of Chase, he and Cameron are boring me. I know Jesse and Jen broke up and with new characters, there's not as much time, but COME ON! We invested in their relationship for three years. And nothing. You know, besides her getting all hot and bothered about House and discussing it with Chase. On camera. *sigh*

And I'm not really sure what the point was in bringing the CIA doctor into the mix - other than proving that Thirteen is smart and solidifying her as one of the final fellows and not just a pretty face. I mean, we all know House likes the ladies and the inappropriate comments (I maintain that he and Cuddy are hot for each other), so why bring this chick in for two episodes just to tell us what we already knew?

Amongst it all, there are still some things I can count on, and while there has been a shocking lack recently, House and Wilson together continues to be one of the consistently funny rocks of the show. I love it. Seriously. I want to be friends with them.

In other news, I really wanted Cuddy's outfit tonight. So cute. What? I know it has nothing to do with plot or story, but I don't care.

Who doesn't like Patch Adams?

Camerawoman: Pretend we're not here.
House: If I do that, won't I bump into you?

House: It's a joke. See, I became a doctor because of the movie, Patch Adams.

House: I think she might be an idiot.

House: She was able to identify that they were good ideas.
Wilson: Stab in the dark, here. Is she pretty?
House: She's new. She's nervous.
Wilson: She's a C cup.

House: Hey, hey, hey, hey! You have an all access pass to the case, not my Fave Five.

Wilson: Thirteen's pretty. You're obviously okay with her.
House: She killed a patient.
Wilson: The Bitch is pretty.
House: The Bitch is a bitch.
Wilson: Ask her out.
House: The Bitch? She's a bitch.

Wilson: Pretty girl kill again?

Heroes: Thoughts on being a Sophomore

2007-11-12T23:35:00.000-06:00

I can't just discuss tonight's episode. No. At the moment, Heroes needs more than a snarky recap and a pretty picture of Milo. It needs... a mother's discipline.

See, Heroes is a cool show. I wouldn't exactly call it the smartest, or best written hour of entertainment, but in Season One, it was actually entertaining. It was different and unpredictable and full of cool characters and merging storylines. And it held my attention, kept me wanting, became Must See TV.

Then Hiro landed in feudal Japan and that girl started crying black tears.

Here's what makes Heroes tick: Plot twists, multiple stories and characters, entwined without their knowledge, pushing toward one, big agenda. Season One's agenda was clear from the beginning. Hell, we even got slogans for each phase of the plan. (Say it with me, Save the Cheerleader... save the world.)

Season two's direction was made clear ... last week. Somewhere around the SEVEN episode mark. There's a virus, it's gonna kill them all. The heroes have to fix it. Why did it take so long to get there?

I read a recent interview with Tim Kring (which made me hopeful), in which he owned up to several sophomore issues. Most importantly:

1. Late introduction of the season's purpose (plague wiping out civilization, gotta stop it). I seriously had no idea what the hell any of them were doing until last week. Storyline was/is all over the place. I mean, they mentioned the virus, but then with all the ancient warriors and brain boxes, it was hard to make it fit. And I'm still wondering on B story with the older generation being killed off (I'm suspecting by Adam).

2. The Seven Years in Tibet storyline, or whatever that crap was with Hiro living in his childhood storybook. The payoff with Takezo K./Adam turned out to be cool, but it could have been done sooner. Waaaaay sooner. Like, before there were ever Cherry Blossoms involved.

3. New characters. Seriously, I'm less interested in Maya, Alejandro and Monica than that infomercial where the guy screams about four types of kitchen cleaner. They Nikki and Paolo'd it with the first two, and Monica, poor thing... what's the point? Then there's West. Don't get me started. I mean ... what can I say? That kid totally goobs me out with his Peter Pan flying and dumbass dialogue.

That said, the newbies aren't ALL bad.

1. Elle. The four minutes of screen time Kristen Bell got in episode five, were the most entertaining of the season at that point, and shot her to immediate status as a character I'm actually interested in, want to figure out. And not because I'm already partial (which I am) and think she's fantastic (which she is), but because the character maintained the mystery of Season One. She has a purpose, she has secrets, she's got layers. To me, she's on par with Sylar in that way. Completely unpredictable and totally enthralling. LOVE how Bell is playing her, too. Sadistic little girl. Amazing.

2. Adam. Yes, the Japanese storyline was crap, but the twist - that he's immortal and because of Hiro's tampering, living in present day, carrying a 400 year old grudge and a sexy English accent - awesome. We all knew early in the season that David Anders been made a regular, which left me wondering HOW. Pretty cool payoff - plus, he has GOT to have some connection to Claire, right? (Note that everything I'm saying in this paragraph goes back to the reasons listed as what makes the show tick. Coincidence? I think not.)

As for plot this season, it's hard to comment because I've yet to see anything cohesive. And now I'm sad because it looks like things are about to shift gears (because Kring says he hears his audience!), just in time for an early season finale due to the WGA Strike.

Tonight's episode was probably the best of the season. Why? Oh, I don't know... because we finally found out about the characters we care for, Peter got his freakin' memory back and there was some payoff! And I won't lie, the preview for next week looks awesome. This beach-bound showdown with Mohinder and HRG and The Company. Exchanging Claire for Elle - all good things.

And only three left to give us some closure to a less than stellar, and incomplete season.

Damn you AMPTP!

Thoughts on Striking...

2007-11-12T00:32:00.000-06:00

See, I get it.

I do.

I think it sucks because it's the middle of the television season and fans are getting left in the lurch. Shows are hitting their stride, mid-story, and it's possible the viewers will have to wait over a year for seasonal conclusions to already scarce shows (LOST), while baited with the promise of an upswing from faulty stories in others (Heroes). Nevermind the super quick shut down of favorites like The Office, teasing its best table read EVER!

I may go insane.

Not that I think the actors and writers and directors are using this as an excuse for vacation because they don't want to be at work, churning out episodes. If there's anything I learned from my short time in Hollywood, it's that those people are workaholics - seriously. To a fault.

I think the cast and crew is as sad about Dunder-Mifflin sitting empty as I am. Well, probably more when it comes to crew, because let's face it, this strike is NOT good for the grips and the PAs and all the other hardworking little guys making a living on set.

But if there's anything I love, it's a display of solidarity.

My husband is in the entertainment industry, so I know what residuals mean and why they're important. If someone tried selling his CD's or posting their songs on iTunes and left them out of the cut, I'd be there with my own picket sign (even though I think I'd be the only one - have musicians ever gone on strike?), knocking on the proverbial door.

So, yeah, I think the writer's deserve their cut because it's true, in a few years, New Media and the Internet will be an even bigger monster in this industry than they are now. It's strange to me that TV and Movie scribes aren't automatically figured into the deal, because without them, we wouldn't have television. No company would spend millions of dollars in advertising funds for a slot during NBC's Thursday night because characters as ingenious as Dwight Schrute and Veronica Mars would be figments of our imagination (aren't they kind of anyway), LOST would be nothing but a word normally printed in lower case letters, we'd never have heard the charming tale of Ned the Piemaker, and Prime Time wouldn't exist.

Writers ARE television.

Sure, they're important for movies, but TV is the writer's medium. They produce it, they live it, they star in it, they ... write it. The director doesn't get the glory because he comes in for one episode and leaves. It's the guys and girls in the writer's room, under a florescent light at 3 a.m. who run the show - and they do deserve to be compensated.

So, I get it.

I support the strike - what it stands for - 100%.

Still, while I KNOW it's not about greed - it's NOT - if I'm totally honest, there's this little nagging voice in the back of my brain that's kind of annoyed because the average writer in Hollywood makes about $200,000 a year (putting them in something like the top 1% of earning elite in this country) and the ones who are between jobs, working sporadically, make around $62,000 a year (almost twice the average national salary). Granted, Hollywood is an unpredictable place, and a few years from now, that once viable writer may need to live off their residuals while they look for work with the rest of us Regular Joes, so I can't really begrudge them at all - but I can't feel totally sorry for them either, when I'm living with a struggling musician and trying to find a job! Of course, it's people like me, obsessed with the Hollywood product, that make it the norm for salaries in that industry to inflate past people like teachers and social workers, so I can't get too upset can I?

No, dang it, I can't!

Get me the AMPTP, I want my TV back!!!

Brothers and Sisters: 207

2007-11-12T00:21:00.000-06:00

Brothers and Sisters

2x07
36 Hours

There were things I loved and there were things I didn't.

For some reason, as annoyed as I am with the whole rehashing of Justin's addiction storyline, I enjoyed it tonight. I think it was more about the family being together, the dynamic of the Walker's showing up for one another. And Justin falling asleep on Kitty's shoulder was the cutest. Poor Rebecca though. I kept waiting for Justin to call her and apologize, but I guess that will come after he gets over the shakes and vomits.

Saul... well, it's been coming on for a while now. Still not sure whether it's a good move or not, but we shall see. I am interested to see whether or not he was just in love with one man, or if it's his overall preference because honestly, I don't want the Holly storyline from last season - and the numerous discussions of other women - to be chalked up to a cover - it's been done and it's just not as interesting.

As for Robert's little white lie to Kitty about wanting to have kids... not a good idea.

Next family issue: Just in time for his miraculously non-depressed wife to come home, everyone learns Tommy's a cheater. (GRRRRR.)

It doesn't sound like you really mean that...

2007-11-11T11:06:00.000-06:00

Sorry, guys.

It's been outrageously long since I posted, but life has sort of taken over the last couple of weeks. My grandfather had a stroke, I worked ridiculous hours at this Christmas retail fair (it's questionable as to whether or not my feet still function) and I found a new apartment that has to be painted and cleaned before I can move in (because it was built in the '40s). Thing is, with all that going on, I've been behind on my shows and had to watch some online (which I know is a "no no" these days with the strike) and some days later than airing. Then, my TIVO tried to explode from holding the backlogs of material. Alas, I think I'm caught up. Finally. As for the blog, it was hard to keep it going as it's just me manning the ship.

That said, I bow in humble apology for my absence. I'm not really sure how many people actually come here regularly, but if you do, I will not look you in the eye for at least a week as a sign of deference. ;)

---

And now, a mash:

The Office: I've missed two recaps, but I'm focusing on "Survivor Man." Interesting episode. Funny, in its own way, but interesting. Steve Carell tends to take a heavy undertone to the story when he writes. This evolution of Jim Halpert thing (check out GMMR) - stuck in his job, but content in his life - seems to be coming to the front lines this year. Jim being afraid of becoming Michael, promising not to be at DM in 10 years just like Michael did. And then there's the second life discovery of what Jim would really like to be doing.

It's interesting, veddy veddy... we're seeing Jim happier than he's ever been personally, but I'm starting to wonder if we won't see a bit more discontent with his choices professionally. Of course, this storyline should have been saved for the second to last or last season, so the final episode involves Jim getting a fancy new job and moving off with his fiance, Pam (did I just say that? oops!), but whatever the writers want to explore, I'm up for it. As long as they don't screw with my PB&J. Wouldn't it be interesting to see them actually stay together and figure things out. What a novel idea. You know, sort of like people do in real life. On a side note, Jan has plastic boobs!

House: House at the CIA = Awesome! Still only one Chase scene, a smattering of Cameron and LOTS of Foreman. I'm starting to wonder how Jesse Spencer feels about this.

Friday Night Lights: Okay. I'm sorry. You KNOW how obsessed I am with this show (I'm currently wearing a T-shirt I made a Spreadshirt.com with Panther Football written on front and Riggins and Saracen on back), but I have several WTF (not necessarily bad, just... WTF) things to toss out into the ether.

a) Last week in Mexico. Lyla making out with Street and Riggins. In front of each other. (The "I need to go pray" comment was a bit much for me.) My friend and I had to rewind after looking at each other and saying, "Did that just happen?" I'm supposing she was drunk? I... And... But then, the next day driving home (this week's ep), there's no mention of it, head on Rig's shoulder, reminiscing about the past. Weird. Not that I mind, I mean, I'd go for both too, maybe just not in front of each other. All I'm sayin'. Still, my funny friend in the elite Facebook group that shall not be named, had this to say: "I don't know why everyone's thinking it's strange. Didn't any of ya'll see Y Tu Mama Tambien? Apparently those sorts of shenanigans happen all the time during Mexican road trips." Apparently. I'll know what to expect when I hit the road for Mexico.

b) Tami's sister is gonna annoy me. c) Saracen! Get your lips off that randomite! d) Riggins. I love you. e) Coach and Tami were CLASSIC in last week's episode (re: post baby fun time for Coach). I laughed... god, I laughed.

f) Landry's dad is cop and an idiot. I mean, how is he going to explain Landry's missing car? Better yet, what's he gonna say when they find the car (they always find the car)? More importantly, how is Landry going to drive all the Collete women, plus Mrs. Saracen and Lyla to the State Championship this year? Geez.

---

There were other moments of the week. But since I have two weeks to atone for, I think I'll just start over fresh with the one upcoming.

Samantha Who?

2007-10-28T22:24:00.001-06:00

I watched the first two episodes online this weekend. Cute enough. Not gonna say it was as mindblowing as all the promos would lead you to believe, but it's definitely watchable - especially with Sookie St. James involved. Hello!? Gilmore = goodness (even if Scott did sign on for Saw IV, which I will not be watching). Still, my Monday night can handle anything else. As in, I'm not technologically capable of TIVOing it, so I'll have to settle with ABC.com until someone (Santa, if you're reading) decides to get me another TIVO.

P.S. New promo shots needed.

Brothers and Sisters: 2x05

2007-10-28T21:58:00.000-06:00

Brothers and Sisters

2x05
Domestic Issues

It's been a while since we talked Walker, and I've missed them. You?

Granted, tonight was more drama heavy than usual. Custody battles, adultery, pregnancy, growing addiction - with no outburst of funny from Kevin to temper the blow. I'm counting on you, man! Come on!

So, wow with the Sarah and Joe thing. I sort of wanted to pound Joe in the pants with a water bottle for doing that to her. I get that he took care of them while she worked (don't get me started on why he thinks that suddenly means he's got sole rights to them), but she didn't neglect them - she was their provider for Pete's sake, and to try and pull the rug out from under her is just WRONG. And DIRTY. Shared custody is the ONLY fair thing to do in this case, so that judge and Joe can just kiss it. God, Rachel broke my heart in the last scene, and I'm nowhere near in the market for my own children at this point in life, so I'm blaming my tears on all the emotion of going to the baptism of my best friend's baby girl this morning. I just can't imagine.

So, Kitty's pregnant and Robert's running for President. Not exactly ideal, but interesting. And who knew Kitty even wanted a kid? I mean, has she said anything about reproducing before? Maybe she has and I lost the memory somewhere amid a mountain of press releases. Whatever. In all honesty, it's a believable turn - and I think I might actually like it. Who knows what will happen next, but for now, I'm good. And this storyline provided the only comedic break of the night as Justin spread the news as only Walkers do. Plus, now we are all in on the pantry secret...

Um, waiter *snap, snap*... I mean, writer... could I order a new storyline for Justin?

And, didn't Rebecca and her mom make up - kinda - last week? I mean, not that I'm complaining, I like her being at Nora's, but I'm just trying to recall.

Tonight's special section is reserved for idiocy...

TOMMY. Just... just... STOP. Seriously. When I say that your little ... dalliance is unacceptable, I really mean, a stupid ass thing to do you bonehead. Okay? I mean, I get that you're pissed and sad and confused and really feeling low about Julia - and you have every right because I think she's really doing an unfair number on you with the whole packing up your kid and leaving and not giving you any say in the matter, but STOP. Don't make me not like you anymore. Please. Keep it in your pants. I have to stop or I'll get up on my handy dandy soap box and not come down.

Across the Universe

2007-10-25T22:05:00.001-05:00

I'm in love with this movie.

And I worked hard for it. I mean, I heard about it a while ago, researched release dates, and waited patiently, trying to spread the word to everyone else in my circle. When I left LA, I also left the land of getting movies while in limited release, so there was that delay. Then, when I finally went to see it last week during the day, I ended up alone in the theater with a guy that really started creeping me out - I won't go into detail - but about the time Jude started singing, "Something," I was outta there. And royally pissed. Then the weekend was full, so I put it off until Tuesday - and it was so worth it.

Completely fantastic - and while it enriches the experience and understanding of the film, I really don't think you have to know The Beatles to like it or get it or whatever. It's just... I don't know how to describe it, but it's beautiful to watch and hear.

Jim Sturgess is my new favorite - and I've discovered he's playing George in The Other Boleyn Girl, so... score. Can't wait to see more of him - though I think Jude will always be my favorite character, and I'll always want him to burst out into song. Not to type-cast him or anything.

Just go see it.

The Office: 4x05

2007-10-25T21:36:00.001-05:00

The Office
4x05
Local Ad

And we're back to thirty minutes - which has its fair share of pluses and minuses. Plus: not filling in the gaps with Michael driving his car into a lake. Minus: thirty less minutes of funny and cuteness. Oh, well, whatever. As long as I can count on the constancy of my Thursday night, as long as I know it's going to be there for me, I'll take what I can get. (Sorry, was discussing with a friend, how TV is a source of comfort when everything else is haywire in life - moving, job searching, etc.)

Tonight was all about ensemble...

And I loved it. When they stay on site, all together, it reminds me of season 1 and 2. Less bells and whistles (not that I don' t love the occasional bell or whistle) and moments with Cousin Mose, but the idea of that group trapped in an enclosed space, for an unknown amount of time... pure comedy. And in honor of that, tonight's breakdown is by character...

Michael: Such dedication. He can be laughable, sure, but that ad was pretty dang good! I mean, come one, Chariots of Fire?! Awesome. Michael broke out of his creative lock box. He used the talents of his workers. He visualized the unicorn. It's inspiring, really. Look for Mike's Cereal Shack in a city near you.

Andy: KIT KAT BAR!! Come, on! (Though I do like "football cream.") And I'm sorry, what he and Angela were doing is called "facing." I have this on good authority from a friend. Apparently there are by-laws to facing, and I think "cheeking the earlobe," crosses the boundaries of decency. Also love that Nard Dawg has NO clue what is going on with Dwight.

Dwight: Heh. "Oooooh, D." And, I'm sorry, but his second lifer can fly? Saving the masses from overpriced paper. Plus, his life was so good, his second life had a second life. Who can top that?

Jim: I, like Pam, want a Philly Jim. Too cute. Plus, bringing in breakfast, proud boyfriend smile at Pam's animation, followed immediately by protective/jealous boyfriend arm around the shoulders... always a win. Even if he did have to catch a ride home with Meredith. Guess he pissed... (P.S. Let's not give Jim and Pam any issues yet, everyone - this is normal. People work late.)

Pam: I loved focused, artistic Pam, falling asleep in the office, but having to decide if sleeping in the same place as Dwight and Michael was better or worse than falling asleep at the wheel and dying in a fiery car crash. P.S. I need Pam to clear my phone lines.

Darryl: The song was fantastic. And the backup singers - even better! Hysterical. Why did I feel like I was watching Cheers?

Phyllis: I want to see the outtakes on that crying scene.

Angela: Who doesn't hate being titillated? Yeah, I need outtakes on that, too.

Dunder-Mifflin.
The people-person's, paper people.

House: 4x04

2007-10-23T23:58:00.000-05:00

House

4x04
Guardian Angels

Strange. This photo was labeled, "Season 4 Cast Promo." If that's the season four cast, why am I spending entire episodes seething at Cutthroat Bitch and reluctantly becoming more attached to 13, while Chase enters the frame for all of 90 seconds?

I need my team. I need their interaction with House. There. I said it.

Still, I love this show. And I'm willing to let it take it's time, bring them all slowly back into the same realm (read: Princeton Plainsboro), but I'm going to need some trade offs. More Wilson, please. More Chase/Cameron interaction (if they can't be with House, at least let me see them together). More Cuddy/House... everything.

I'd also like Cutthroat Bitch to go away. Far, far away.

The good...

1. House's Angels.

2. The Bachelor. When House walked in with those flowers at the end of the episode, I felt the corners of my mouth turn up. Classic. (Much like the Survivor spoof a few weeks before.)

3. The interaction between House and Cole. The beliefs, the kid, all of it. I love how House can't stand not know anything... no matter what it is. Great bet with Cameron to carry the storyline forward, but in the end, just like House, I enjoy seeing someone stand up to him, earn his respect. Plus, it provided a plethora of inappropriate jokes and comments.

4. Cuddy seeing through Cutthroat Bitch's brown nosing avoidance.

5. Newbies in the cemetery.

The bad...

Not enough Chase. Not enough Cameron. Not enough Foreman interacting with the right people! It just doesn't work for me. I can't invest in the lives and stories of these characters and then have it come to an abrupt halt. It's one thing when you kill them off, but it's another completely to leave them there, within my reach, but out of my grasp!

Just a few quotes

Cuddy: The doctor's lounge is covered in mud.
House: Thirteen and Cutthroat Bitch had a disagreement, cafeteria was out of Jello.
Cuddy: There were pickaxes. Either you had them dig up a body, or you're building a railroad.

House: Big Love, have I humiliated you in the last hour?
Cole: No.
House: Check your email.

House: You punch your boss and stick around?
Cole: Just give me the flower and shut up.

House: Sorry, Henry. We had some giggles.

Heroes: Season 2, Chapter 5

2007-10-23T23:17:00.001-05:00

HEROES

Season 2, Chapter 5
Fight or Flight

A random snapshot and thoughts...

1. Riddle me this, Mohinder. Why the hell did you take Molly to The Company? Not your best move. And then, you're sent to investigate Monica? Wha...huh?

2. So, Matt's daddy is a freakin' weirdo. I mean, yikes! But was he giving us a little foreshadowing of Parkman's future? And why do they have the same power, or derivative thereof?

3. Peter - You're goobing me out.

4. What is with Scarface!Nathan? Huh? HUH?

5. So Nikki has the virus, turned herself in and is going to do it with Mohinder. Wait, was the last part not in the episode?

People/Things I'm bored with...

1. Monica. I really thought her power was going to be awesome catering. As a Food Network junkie, I'd prefer it.

2. Again, they weren't in the episode tonight, but seriously, I'm jumping on board with the, "Maya and her brother are the new Nikki/Paulo" train. Most exciting thing I've seen in regard to them was Sylar's promise to kill them in next week's preview.

3. Ando. *yawn*

4. The really bad accents in Ireland.

5. Micah and his super reasoning skills. What kid would have made that association about Monica, with or without the comic book? I know, I know... he's a genius. Fine, I'll give it to him... but right now, that whole family is taxing my attention span.

Things I want...

1. And Elle/Sylar face off. (It makes me a little giddy that KB and Zach are such cute friends offscreen, great chemistry already - so I can only imagine how well they'd play off one another ONscreen.)

2. Sark in present day. Feudal Japan has to go.

3. Bear to stop flying around with Peter Pan. (Not in this episode, but just weighing on my mind.)

Best in show...

Oh, Kristen, how I love you. I mean, your electricity looked totally fake, but that has nothing to do with your skills. And sure, the dialogue lacks that snappy, quippy, super smart quality us Veronica Mars fans are so used to (and missing terribly), but again, you're working with the words you're given. It's the facial expressions, the voice - so much played in so few scenes. Loved the switch from merciless vixen, "I killed him, what's the big deal?" to petulant and childlike (total voice change and everything), "What if I promise not to..." All the interviews I've read and seen were totally true. I saw the loose canon, loving her power and the pain, alongside the girl who's trying to please, to get the job done. Kristen Bell, hero and girl genius. Layers, people, it's about layers! Cannot wait to see what Elle gives us next. And I'm wondering, just a little bit, if Veronica is already on your trail.

P.S. Who's your daddy? No. Really. Who's your daddy... the one on the phone?

Friday Night Lights: 2x03

2007-10-21T12:02:00.001-05:00

Friday Night Lights

2x03
Are You Ready for Friday Night?

Another quality episode of FNL. If people don't start watching this show, I'm gonna organize some sort of march on Austin. (Not really, but I'd think about it a lot.) I maintain their DVD guarantee that you'll be hooked after one episode. Seriously... Jenna Fischer joined the train after much persuasion from Angela. People from The Office are rarely wrong.

Dillon needs its golden boy...

Coach: Seriously, I've never been one to agree, unquestionably, with Buddy Garrity, but he's right, Eric needs to come home. He's trying so hard to build and mold the boys at TMU - something their staff doesn't understand or care for. But that's what Eric does - and why we love him. Meanwhile, Glenn's got his hands in Tami's icebox, Julie's in the midst of a teenage melt down and his team needs him. Saracen needs him. (I mean, all the others too, but we all know Coach loves Matt the best.) I'm sensing college ball is not exactly living up to the dream Eric imagined and his deal with the Devil to come back to Dillon, may not be a smooth a road as we'd like, but it's the path he needs to be on. Should be interesting to see how they get rid of crazy town coach...

Julie: Is she really that much of a brat? I mean, she didn't get it from her parents, and I know it's been a hard year and she's a teenager and it all feels strange and confusing and the perfect time to act out, but honestly... "I think your baby's crying," is just bitchy. And the Swede. The SWEDE? Stop being something you're not. Ugh. I'm all about the slap from Tami. Sure, she's stressed and taking some of it out on Julie, but Julie needs a wake up call... like life isn't hard for anyone in the Taylor family but her? Natural teenage self-centeredness that drives me up the wall. Step up, kid.

Tyra and Landry: I'm just not sure what I think. The "morning after" scene was expectedly awkward and strange, but so are they - and I was not the least bit surprised they continued to be friends despite it. I like them for that. I like them as friends. Friends. As twisted as it is, I really liked the scene between them in the watch store, even if they were there, you know, because Landry lost his watch at the scene of a crime. I just don't get how he still functions as Landry with that on his mind. As for the ending, Tyra showing up, more kissing... I have no doubt that she truly cares for Landry, but I only see this ending in disaster.

Matt: If you hook up with the nurse, I will steal your football jersey. Just stop it. Writers, this is a terrible plot device. Don't do it. Also, on a side note, angry works well for Saracen.

Tim Riggins: First off, I think it's important to acknowledge the first shot of him in this episode. Shirtless. Duly noted? Okay, so I fail to see why Rig is constantly being heckled by the new coach. I guess it's the coming to practice drunk and not working like he's supposed to, but the dude needs to chill out before he kills the kid. Of course, what does Riggins care, he had Buddy rescue him and a trip to church with Lyla. I like seeing Riggins wrestling with something that I think he might have actually been a little affected by - but still seeing it as a way to get closer to Lyla. Totally believable. I'll leave my thoughts on he and Street, to the Street section, but needless to say, it seems Riggins is circling the bottom of the barrel.

Lyla: I continue to be impressed by how they're handling this storyline. It's not over the top or ridiculous - Christianity does change people's lives and it can be done without the judgment often associated with the experience, so I admire Lyla's new convictions, and I think it's fantastic she's still reaching out to Tim. But she's still reaching out to Tim... so I'm pretty sure they're gonna hook back up. Something we can all be happy about.

Street: I feel for him. He takes his job seriously and is thrown a bone by the coach, only to see it didn't really matter in the end - he's still the mascot. (Just wait 'til Coach Taylor comes back and you are a coach - fair and square.) I don't know what to think about this whole Mexico/surgery/trip with Riggins. I think a lot of his anger toward Riggins comes from Street being upset that Tim takes what he has for granted - what Street can't have - and it pisses him off. Would me too. As for this surgery. DANGER. DANGER. I'm really wondering what's about to go down... whatever it is, I sort of love the fights he and Tim get in, because they never seem to stick. "You could've knocked, Six." and "Put it away... we're still in Texas. Idiot."

Buddy Garrity: The great motivator. "You listen to me Tim Riggins (stole that line from Bo), I've seen you play with a hangover many times and you played like a champ." Way to mentor, Buddy.

Smash: The Smash is back and loving the attention of the new coach's running game. He's also not worried about what it means to see his team being torn apart, or how it might feel to pull the rug out from under Matty. (In his defense, he is a senior and he wants to prove himself and get a scholarship, etc.) Still, it was good to see The Smash get some air time again. But I'm wondering... where's Waverly? Back in therapy? Another character we've seen no mention of... what is the deal?

Favorite exchange of the night...

Eric: Who's that?
Tami: That's Glenn, darlin.
Eric: What's Glenn doin' at the house?
Tami: Glenn is here, helping me at the moment, trying to get the ice maker to work.
Eric: I don't want Glenn over at the house, with his hands in my wife's icebox. Just tell him to leave it alone, I'll fix it when I get home on the weekend.
Tami: Alright, sweetheart, that'll be great. Well, um, is that what you called to talk to me about?
Eric: No. Listen, did you forget to tell me that Julie and Matt broke up?
Tami: No, Julie and Matt didn't break up.
Glenn: Yeah, they did. It's all over the school, it's huge, everybody's talking about it.
Eric: Hey babe, tell Glenn to sit down and be quiet.

I declare... BANKRUPCY!

2007-10-20T11:19:00.001-05:00

The Office
4x04: Money
QUOTES

Michael: Steak! Where’s my steak!

Michael: Get me Armani.
Pam: A suit?
Michael: On the phone.
Pam: Like the main company number because I’m gonna have to call information.
Michael: Where’s Armani? He’s on the phone. Too slow. You’re not going to Paris. I’m so much better than you.

Pam: He’s watching Million Dollar Baby. He’s gonna try to kill me.

Michael: At the end of my life, when I’m sitting on my yacht, am I gonna be thinking about how much money I have? No, I’m going to be thinking about how many friends I have, and my children, and my comedy albums. I mean, I have a yacht, so I obviously did pretty well money-wise.

Dwight: Schrute Farms. Guttentag. How can I help you?

Dwight: We make our own mattresses that don’t conform to the traditional sizes. Closest would be twin.

Jim: Hey Dwight.
Dwight: None of your business, Jim.
Jim: You running a Bed and Breakfast?
Dwight: It is not a B & B.

Dwight: Agrotourism is a lot more than a bed and breakfast. It consists of tourists, coming to a farm, showing them around, giving them a bed, giving them breakfast.

Jim: Does the Department of Health know about this?
Dwight: I am not telling you anything. Permits are pending.

Pam: Hello, I’m looking for a room.
Dwight: Okay. This is a misuse of company phones.

Jan: Why don’t you just pretend that you have a car?

Dwight: I was recently scrubbing my room of memories and I didn’t see it there.

Jim: What do you got going on tonight?

Michael: You wouldn’t understand. It’s a secret.
Jim: I wouldn’t understand, or it’s a secret?
Pam: You wouldn’t understand, Jim. It’s a secret.

Pam: The Beets Motel.
Jim: The Beets Motel? That is… wow.
Pam: Thank you.
Pam: The Embassy Beets. Radish Inn.
Jim: How are you doing this?

Michael: I took this second job kind of as a hobby.

Dwight: We have three rooms, each with a different theme.
Pam: What are the themes?
Dwight: America, irrigation, and night time.
Pam: Irrigation.
Jim: Nice.

Dwight: Now then, do you have any special needs or dietary restrictions?
Jim: Yes, we will be requiring a bedtime story.
Dwight: No.
Jim: Not even Harry Potter?

Dwight: As of this morning, we are completely wireless here at Schrute Farms. But as soon as I find out where Mose hid all the wires, we’ll get that power back on.

Jim: Mmm, I’d say one in six.
Pam: What?
Jim: Oh, I thought you asked me what our chances were of being murdered here tonight.

Jim: You know, I just realized, this is Pam’s and my first night away together. I used to play it over in my head and it was just a little bit different. Maybe a nice hotel, or a romantic dinner. Wine. But wine that wasn’t made out of beets. Didn’t think Dwight would be involved at all. And I always imagined less manure. I mean, some manure. Just … less.

Stanley: When I’m at home at night, in my own house, in my sweat streakers and red wine, watching my mystery stories, the last thing I want in the whole Godforsaken world is the voice of Michael Scott.

Michael: Medical school must have cost like $40 or a donkey or something.

Michael: I would have been chief of surgery. Or a cowboy.

Pam: Oh, my God, what century is this?

Dwight: I am better than you have ever been or ever will be.

Michael: Power point, power point, power point.

Michael: And up comes the tool bar. That’s what she said.

Michael: “Estimated time, 12 minutes.” So this should take about five or ten minutes.

Michael: What I do between 5:30pm and 1am is nobody’s business but mine and my other businesses.
Jim: Are you a cocktail waitress?

Michael: Whomever is never actually right.
Jim: Well, sometimes it’s right.
Creed: Michael is right. It’s a made up word used to trick students.
Andy: No, actually, whomever, is the formal version of the word.
Oscar: Obviously it’s a real word, but I don’t know when to use it correctly.
Michael: Not a native speaker.
Kevin: I know what’s right, but I’m not gonna say, because you’re all jerks who didn’t come see my band last night.
Ryan: Do you actually know which one is correct.
Kevin: I don’t know.
Pam: It’s whom when it’s the object of the sentence and who when it’s the subject.
Phyllis: That sounds right.
Michael: Well, it sounds right, but is it?
Stanley: How did Ryan use it, as an object?
Ryan: As an object.
Kelly: Ryan used me as an object.
Stanley: Is he right about that…
Pam: How did he use it again?
Toby: It was… Ryan wanted Michael, the subject, to explain the computer system, the object, to whomever, meaning us, the indirect object. Which is the correct usage of the word.
Michael: No one asked you anything ever, so whomever’s name is Toby, why don’t you take a letter opener and stick it in your skull.

Pam: What’s up?
Andy: Me. All night. Dreaming about Angela’s smoking hot body.
Pam: You’re being gross.
Andy: Not from a male perspective. You need to set me up with her. I know she told you that she’s looking and she’s totally not responding to my moves.
Pam: What moves?
Andy: I have moonwalked past accounting, like, ten times.
Pam: I can’t believe that’s not working. I don’t know if I really see you two together.
Andy: Really? Well, maybe you should look in the smart part of your brain.

Pam: She can be kind of severe.
Andy: Yeah, and I punched a hole in a wall.
Pam: That’s right, you did.

Pam: Now that I think about it, Angela and Andy might actually make a good couple. But I couldn’t do that to Dwight. Or Angela. Or Andy.

Michael: Okay, I know what’s going on. You’re talking about Jim and Pam. If they’re having sex. What it looks like, and I think…
Pam: Michael.

Oscar: Michael, are you having money problems?
Michael: Monkey problems. No, I’m not having monkey problems.
Oscar: I know you heard me correctly.
Michael: Ohhh, I hate monkeys.

Michael: I don’t have a second job. Maybe I am having an affair with Suzanne Somers.
Pam: Doesn’t Jan have money?
Michael: I don’t talk to my girlfriend about money. It is rude and unsexual.

Darryl: You need to access your uncrazy side.

Kelly: Darryl Philbin is the most complicated man I have ever met. I mean, who says exactly what they’re thinking. What kind of game is that?

Creed: You don’t go by Monopoly man, that game is nuts. Nobody just picks up “Get out of jail free” cards. Those things cost thousands.
Michael: That is a good point.
Creed: Bankruptcy, Michael, is nature’s do-over, it’s a clean slate.
Michael: Like a witness protection program.
Creed: Exactly.
Oscar: Not at all.

Michael: I’ve always wanted to be in the witness protection program.

Oscar: Hey, I just wanted you to know, that you can’t just say the word bankruptcy and expect anything to happen.
Michael: I didn’t say it; I declared it.

Pam: “Table-making never seemed so possible.”

Angela: Nothing fancy or foreign. No bars, no patios, no vegetables. And no seafood.

Jim: Did I ever tell you why I left Scranton? Yeah, I didn’t think I had. Well, it was all about Pam. Yeah, I mean, she was with Roy, and I just couldn’t take it. I mean, I lost it, Dwight. I couldn’t sleep, I couldn’t concentrate on anything. And then weird stuff, like, food had no taste. So my solution was to move away. It was awful. And it is something that I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. And that includes you.

Pam: Jim’s just really passionate about Italian food.

Jim: Yep, I’m very passionate about Italian food. In fact, um, I’m in love with Italian food.

Michael: This is who I am now… a guy on a train with no answers. I hope that can be enough for you.

Michael: Don’t sell your implants, please.

The Office: 4x04

2007-10-20T11:17:00.001-05:00

The Office

4x04
Money

I loved this episode. I know there's some debate going on about it being too dramatic, but honestly, Booze Cruise had its moments - and so does life. And I think they did a good job of interspersing the heartfelt with the funny. So much goodness.

I wouldn't wish that on my worst ememy...

Jim and Dwight are fantastic together. Yes, it's funnier when they're annoying each other and playing pranks, but I like getting a glimpse into the inner workings of their "friendship." The beet farm was funny - Dwight reading the bed time story, while Mose rocked on the bed. But more than that, I loved seeing Jim and Pam take care of Dwight while he dealt with his break up. And I adored Jim's confession (and personal revelation) that brought Dwight around. I was also a fan of the moaning and the crying in the stairwell - reaching out for Jim, but finding him gone was a great touch. I think my favorite thing is that "normal" for those two, is Dwight being hard to get along with and pushing Jim's stuff off his desk. Victory.

And speaking of Italian food...

Seriously, anyone who says that getting the couple together on a TV show doesn't work, needs to watch The Office. I swear, every week I think I'm going to die from the cuteness that is Jim and Pam. Really. I can't handle it. I mean, let's roll call the moments of the week: the look on Jim's face when he realizes Pam is booking them a room at Schrute Farms, Jim's "manure speech" about how he imagined his first night away with Pam, Harry Potter story time cuddling, the glimpse into their room where we can see the beds pushed together, the Trip Advisor review, and of course, the kiss and subsequent Italian food talking heads. *sigh* John Krasinski is really blowing it for the male population out there, making women think that Jims actually exist in the wild.

Notables and Quotables...

1. The Devil Wears Prada/Million Dollar Baby cold open with Michael and Pam.

2. Schrute Farms. From Jim's discovery of its existence, to Cousin Mose running alongside the car, using the outhouse and just... running. Everywhere. I love Mose. I feel like I learned so much about agrotourism tonight. And really hate I can't stay at the asparagus farm.

3. Darryl. Just... so funny.

4. Michael having actual friends who like him at his other job.

5. Power Point! Power Point!

6. The conference room scene! Whomever/whoever. You know that discussion had to have gone down in the writer's room. So good.

7. Andy's moonwalking moves - even though we didn't actually see them, I like to imagine that's why he was standing spread eagle at Pam's desk - his legs were tired.

8. Michael's runaway train (never goin' back).

Friday Night Lights: 2x02

2007-10-13T17:11:00.000-05:00

Friday Night Lights

2x02
Bad Ideas

Yes, and there were lots of them in this episode. So many it's hard to choose. Returning to the scene of the crime, The Swede, Buddy Garrity (Just in general... "Rig-O"), The Taylor family split (which is taking its toll, obviously) ... and let's not forget Landry and Tyra doin' the dirty.

Where do I even begin?

I have a wonderful group of TV obsessed friends, with whom I can have endless conversations about fictional characters. I've had my boss remind me that Jim and Pam aren't real while, discussing them with A, I've sat at length while pondering LOST in a room full of faces, and now that FNL has entered my life, there's T-shirt making and Facebook groups. In said (and very exclusive, I can't even discuss it) Facebook group, I'm an officer. Julie Taylor is my name. And last night... I was ashamed of myself. But more on that later. There's something else bigger on my mind...

Forget WWJD. Let's ask what Kyle Chandler's hair would do... because it has a life of its own and I love it.

Sometimes it's easier to write my feelings down. You know, letters you'll never send...

Dear Landry and Tyra,
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no. Do you hear me? NO! I loved the funny Landry/Tyra dynamic. The mismatched hot girl/goofy good guy friendship. I'm not sure I can handle the angsty, "I killed him for you," subplot. *facepalm* I mean, between the MURDER (What? Why was there even a murder?), the river, the hand holding, love confessions and the ohmygodI'mfreakingoutandyou'retheonlyonewhoknowshowifeel sympathy sex, I just can't take it. (Still, even if I have issues with the storyline, kudos to Jesse and Adrienne - they really impressed me tonight.)

Dear Tami T,
I just want to sit down and cry with you. Or get you a maid. And ground Julie. Seriously, you are stretched thin. You're strolling down the street in 105 degree Texas weather, ending up with a sick baby, a long distance husband and a TEENager. Nevermind you have your own life to deal with - and you're missing your job. You need help, I mean, come on, the constant and spontaneous tearful breakdowns? You need Coach and his sexy hair to come home. Good thing I sense the winds are a-changin'.

Dear Julie,
You suck for a number of reasons. 1) It's not you, it's me. 2) Stringing Matt along. 3) Breaking up with Matt. 4) Kissing The Swede. 5) Being rude to your mother. Alas, you are a teenager... I expect remorseful, angsty, up and down emotional upheaval. *sigh* At least they're writing you true to teenage character, no matter how much I want to pull out your hair, strand by strand. And can I just ask - how old is The Swede supposed to be? Because one minute he's acting like your dad, patting you on the head and patronizing you with terms of endearment like, "kid," and then he's making out with you in the car. I'd be insulted if I were you... I'm just sayin'.

Dear Matt,
I love you, really, I do. And I'm sorry Julie is dragging you through the mud (I bet she realizes her mistake before too long), and you have grown up things to do like look for medical assistance and take care of your family, but if you hook up with your grandmother's new sit and be fit , in-home nurse, I will strangle you. Kisses. P.S. I still think you should find some way to show Jules what she's missing, just... not that way.

Dear Jason,
Okay, the dream is kinda creepy - not because of the walking, I'd love for you to walk - but because it includes Coach's wife. Weird? Yes. And also... I NEED some information on Street and Lyla. Seriously, they were together for like, their whole lives and suddenly... nothing. I need closure, even if you don't.

Dear Coach,
Go, go Coach! Go, go, go Coach! You tell that hyped up, full of himself punk college kid where to stick it! "Who am I talking to? Who am I? Who the hell are you?" Ooooooo! Too bad you got a little zing and a cut when you got back to the office, "I bet you were one hell of a high school coach, Taylor." What exactly is that supposed to mean? He's just one hell of a coach in general.

Dear Lyla and Riggins,
We all know you still want to do it.

My favorite exchange of the night:
Matt: Grandma. What... what'd you order?
Mrs. Saracen: Is that my tiara?
Matt: (as if he's never heard the word before) Tiara?
Mrs. Saracen: Is it? (gasps) Look how pretty!
Landry: That... that'll be beautiful for whenever you just... zip on over to the Rite Aid.
Matt: Grandma, no, no, no, no. It's $2400. We gotta... it's... we gotta send this back.
Mrs. Saracen: Look how pretty!
Landry: Beautiful.
Matt: It's really pretty, but it's really gotta go back.
Mrs. Saracen: (puts on the tiara) Oh, boys.
Landry: Look at... look at her...
Mrs. Saracen: You can't put a price tag on happiness.

Next week on FNL: Tyra hits and runs, Buddy calls a late night coup, and Tami bitch slaps Julie... just another Friday night in Dillon.

And now...
a little somethin' for the ladies.

A wopping 52 reams!

2007-10-12T16:45:00.000-05:00

The Office

4x03: Launch Party
QUOTES

Jim: There’s this cube on the screen that bounces around all day, and sometimes, it looks like it’s headed right into the corner of the screen and at the last minute, it hits a wall and bounces away. And we are all just dying to see it go right into the corner. (shakes head) Pam claims that she saw it one day, when she was alone in the conference room. Okay. I believe she thinks she saw it.

Pam: I saw it! I saw it, and it was amazing! Who said I didn’t see it? Did Jim say that I didn’t see it? I saw it!

Michael: Today’s the big day that I’m heading to New York to attend a party with sushi and important people. On an unrelated note, if anybody has an interesting anecdote that is not boring, and easy to memorize, please drop by my office before I leave.

Jim: Whoops. Is that really what Ryan wanted you to tell us?

Michael: The website is a brainchild of my brainchild, Ryan. It is my brain grandchild.

Kelly: That’s from Ryan? Does it mention if he’s seeing anybody?

Michael: No, it doesn’t. I’ll find out tonight.

Stanley: Yes, please let us know.

Pam: Dwight mercy killed Angela’s cat. It’s very complicated. It’s caused a lot of unpleasantness between Dwight and Angela. Who were both already prone to unpleasantness.

Andy: And then I will say something positive, like “kudos” or “job well done.”
Jim: Or “zip-a-dee-doo-dah.”

Andy: I can’t tell if he’s mocking me.

Dwight: Just ignore him.

Andy: Can’t do that. It’s really hard for me to let things go.

Jim: I was. Mocking.

Andy: Thank you.

Dwight: I just feel like we need something more to acknowledge when I make a sale.

Andy: Yes! Like a chime or a bell…

Jim: Or a gong.

Dwight: Go to my car. Open the trunk. Inside, you will see many pelts. Under the smallest one is a case. Inside that case is a bear horn. Bring it to me.

Phyllis: Angela is worse than usual lately, and we have a party to throw. So I Googled, (whispering) ‘How to deal with difficult people,’ and I got all of this. So we’re gonna try out some new things today.

Phyllis: So how do you feel about the fact that the banner says “lunch”?

Angela: I feel angry. Angry at you. Angry at you for doing something stupid. Angry at me for believing you could do something not stupid.

Phyllis: I’m so sorry to hear that, that must be awful.

Michael: Wow, easy, booster seat, nobody cares about this party anyway.

Jim: What would you say if I told you we could pull a prank on Dwight, and at the same time, not be working? What?

Pam: He’s going through a break up.

Jim: Yeah, I’m aware of that, but he’s also being super annoying, and… I’m not a perfect person.

Dwight: [airhorn] Woohoo! Three reams! In your face, machines!

Pam: What kind of prank are you thinking?

DunMiff/sys (Jim): Not sure. Just became self-aware. So much to figure out. I think I am programmed to be your enemy. I think it is my job to destroy you when it comes to selling paper.

Dwight: How do I know this isn’t Jim?

DunMiff/sys (Pam): What is a Jim?

Dwight: It appears that the website has become alive. This happens to computers and robots sometimes.

Dwight: I did so well last February, that Corporate gave me two plaques in lieu of a pay raise.

Pam: Yes, it’s too tight.

Kelly: Waaaay too tight.

Oscar: Really? This is why I’m here?

Kelly: Why is it so tight?

Michael: It’s European cut.

Michael: How many pounds do you think I could lose by 7?

Michael: Do I have your permission to invite Carol?

Andy: Okay, why don’t you just lay off, lady?

Michael: So, this is the dealio. God has smiled on me and given me two tickets to the big party in New York tonight. What are you doing this evening? (Jim and Pam look at each other, smiling.) Look at that, they have their own little language now. Twins.

Jim: Sure, we’ll go.

Michael: Alright, well, fight it out amongst yourselves. I was thinking Pammy, but boy’s night out is also good.

Jim: Wait, I’m sorry…

Pam: One of the tickets is for him.

Michael: Just let me know who the winner is.

Pam and Jim: Not it.

Jim: Nope…

Pam: I won.

Jim: Definitely not. If anything, it was a tie.

Pam: Tie goes to the girlfriend.

DunMiff/sys (Jim): While you were typing that, I searched every database in existence, and learned every fact about everything. And mastered the violin. And sold more paper.

Phyllis: I want to understand what you’re saying, but it’s difficult for me when you use that tone.

Angela: Phyllis, these are spoons. Spoons have rounded tops, and are used to scoop things. What we need are forks. Which have prongs, or tiny spears on top. And we need knives, which have blades. Do you understand me now?

Michael: Alright, I’m ready to go and I’m calling shotgun.

Jim: I’m driving.

Michael: Yes. Thank you.

Jim: Alright, let me just say goodbye to Pam.

Michael: Oh yeah, you better, you better say goodbye to Pam. (in a high voice) Bye. I love you. (makes smooching noises)

Michael: It’s a club called Chatroom, and there’s a password to get in, which is actually, “password.”

Jim: Mmmkay.

Michael: What are you doing?

Jim: Um, that, is an invitation to an online party.

Jim: Are there three W’s at the beginning of the address?

Michael: Yes.

Angela: How do you tell someone it’s over? You send them a notarized letter, right? Well what if the recipient is your notary?

Angela: I would like to have a relationship with a man.

Pam: Um… I’ll get back to you.

Dwight: I think you should date Kelly.

Andy: How is that any different, she works here, too.

Dwight: Uh, she works in the annex. You’re also welcome to date Toby.

Andy: They say you should never mix business with pleasure. Really. Well then explain to me how a putt-putt golf company operates.

Michael: I’m not kidnapping him. I am keeping him until I get what I want.

Jim: As a hostage.

Michael: I think you’re over-thinking it.

Jim: I think you’re under-thinking it.

Jim: Hey, quick question. If I take a pizza, do you think you could take some sodas and some napkins up to the roof?

Pam: I’m all over it.

Jim: Okay.

Jim: Do you remember what you said to me, on my first day of work, before you walked me toward my desk?

Pam: Yeah. Enjoy this moment, because you’re never going to go back to this time before you met your desk mate, Dwight.

Jim: And that’s when I knew. You?

Pam: You came up to my desk and you said, “This might sound weird, and there’s no reason for me to know this, but that mixed berry yogurt you’re about to eat has expired.”

Jim: That was the moment that you knew you liked me?

Pam: Yep.

Jim: Wow. Can we make it a different moment?

Pam: Nope.

Jim: No…

Michael: Hey, I just think you should know that one of my salesmen beat your stupid computer, so take that ***hole.

The Office: 4x03

2007-10-12T16:17:00.001-05:00

The Office
4x03
Launch Party

Or Lunch Party, whichever you prefer.

I claim tonight as a triumph. Much better than last week. Just enough craziness, but not driving in a lake insanity. THANK GOODNESS.

Back on track and I love it...

1. DVD wallpaper screens are RIVETING! So funny to watch them all completely captivated and Michael totally oblivious. Plus, Jim and Pam's ribbing each other over whether or not she saw it when she was alone... too cute.

2. Jim's look of defeat after signing Meredith's cast.

3. Dwight's beard, and attempt to win Angela back by beating the computer in sales.

4. Phyllis, Googling, "How to deal with difficult people," before tossing paper in Angela's face.

5. Andy. His inability to let things go (when Jim is ribbing him), his pursuit of Angela, his sales monitoring with Dwight. And the singing, oh, the singing.

6. Angela, back to her old self - plus some. Dead cat, break up with her boyfriend, yeah... she's a little more tense than normal. And asking Pam to set her up... risky, since Pam is the office mattress.

7. Jim and Pam's prank on Dwight. First off - LOVED seeing them back in action. Second, great prank, very funny, but actually kind of touching at the end when Pam throws Dwight a bone.

8. Michael's shirt, his belief that the VIP party with the "www" address is in New York, and asking Jim OR Pam to go with him. (Add their, "Not it." conversation after Michael leaves and I'm thinking we have a standard, classic Office scene.) Ah, and his webcam "message."

9. Jim and Pam escaping criminal charges with dinner on the roof - and an adorable discussion of when they first knew they liked each other.

10. Michael and Dwight heading to the city for New York style Sushi.

Pushing Daisies: 102

2007-10-12T15:51:00.001-05:00

Pushing Daisies
1x02
Dummy

I. Love. This. Show.

I love how it looks. I love how it sounds. I love the strange, funny, quirky sense of humor it maintains. I love the narrator and the yearly countdown. I just... love.

One of my favorite things is the dialogue. But more than that, the delivery... especially on Ned's part. For instance, in this episode we see Ned and Chuck, cute as pie, in matching twin beds, with matching smiles on their happy faces:

Chuck: Is this strange?
Ned: This is not strange. Unusual, maybe, eccentric, in a quaint way, like dessert spoons.

And if Lee Pace continues to look at Anna Friel the way he does, I may melt. Great chemistry, those two.

What we learned this week:

1. Ned and Chuck can touch... just not skin to skin. Prepare for cuteness. Loved Chuck's distaste for the back seat and Ned's plexi-glass screen with gloved hand holding slot. Not to mention the kissing through plastic. I expect to see a plethora of inventive new ways to touch, without touching.

2. Olive is channeling Sandy from Grease. The musical number cracked me up, and, as a huge fan of Wicked, made me slightly giddy to see "Galinda" on screen.

3. Professor Landry is a killer, no matter what show he's on.

4. Emerson keeps his reward money in individually knitted cases... anyone have the key to his office?

5. Digby is awesome. Just because...

Two for One.

2007-10-09T22:07:00.000-05:00

Heroes

Season 2, Chapter 3
Kindred

Disclaimer of the day: This blog is for shows I watch, meaning I like them, am invested in the story and characters, which sort of makes them like old friends I give an hour of my time to once a week. And you know how it is with old friends - as much as you love, respect and care for them... you REALLY like to make fun of their quirks, laugh at their mishaps and relive all their most embarrassing moments.

With that in mind, I'm interested to know if anyone else out there is having the same trouble I am, focusing on anything OTHER than the cheesy flying sequence in last night's Heroes? Because I feel certain some other stuff happened, but I... just... can't... seem... to recall.

"Claire. Shut up."

I fully expected it to be followed by, "And kiss me," while an appropriately cheesy 80's song played in the background. Such disappointment. He could have at least played, In Your Eyes, on a boombox outside the window while he watched her cut off her toe. Of course, West has a dark place. And it's all Claire's daddy's fault... so now, she's Creepy Bear, staring HRG down through the blinds while he looks at rather ominous pictures of himself, glasses busted.

And I'm sorry, but as much as I love Ireland... Peter has got to leave. I mean, come on. Aside from the lost identity and the life of crime, we find him randomly shirtless, (Lightning! Sparks!) practicing his magic show when Bonny Bar Maid walks in? Why did he need his shirt off for that? Ohhh, right. It's for the ladies. The ladies who tat him up with the family symbol?? What?

Sark, can you please get Hiro to take you back to 2007? The Japanese armor isn't really all that flattering to your accent. Plus, don't you want to meet your great, great, great, great, great, great, great granddaughter and her creepy dad? As for Hiro, you've already punched enough holes in the space-time continuum, do you really want to test it further by sticking notes in the sword for Ando? And how does that work? I'd like to see the moment the sword is altered in the present because of something you're doing 400 years prior. My mind can't really wrap itself around that...

Sylar. Are you on LOST now? Wrong network, buddy. Whatever, just glad to have you back, even if you're still evil.

As for Parkman and Mohinder, I feel I have nothing to add that can fuel the fire of speculation more than anyone else already has.

Other people did things, but... I sort of found them uninteresting.

KB countdown: 2 Weeks.

House
4x03
97 Seconds

Um, House, what is wrong with you? Let's just forget the knife incident, okay. Not that I'd ever put it past you in the first place, but still, let's focus on more important things, like how you should fire Cut-throat Bitch. Immediately.

I'll be honest, I didn't think I was going to like Olivia Wilde's character. My husband's comment was, "Isn't that the girl that made out with Mischa Barton?" Yes... she was that plot device, but I liked her even then, so it wasn't Josh Schwartz related. No, my fears, in regard to her stint on House, were more about not wanting to see Cameron replaced. I'm sort of like House that way... I lost the team, and I'm not too keen on newbies. Anyway, I'm now conceding to liking her. So, there you go. Plus, I just felt really bad for her tonight, what with the guy AND his dog dying... waaaay too sad to handle.

That said, there was a shocking lack of Cameron and Chase this ep. I really, really, really hope they haven't become wayside characters because, change what you want, there is no chemistry like House and the original three. And I miss it. Of course, with Foreman's unfortunate foray into acting like House tonight, and subsequently being fired, I can see the halls of Princeton-Plainsboro once again being filled with the sounds of discord. What a beautiful noise.

And could I please get some sort of information on why there is no House next week? Is it sports related? Ugh.

Friday Night Lights: 2x01

2007-10-06T17:43:00.001-05:00

Friday Night Lights
2x01
Last Days of Summer

I have a question we all want to know the answer to: WWRD?

What Would Riggins Do? Because... you know... he is the Captain of the S.S. TaTas.

Coach and Mrs. Coach: Text I received from a friend during last night's episode, "Coach Taylor is the hottest thing in the universe." I concur. Seriously. My little, southern heart can't take that sweet, sweet man and his hair and his accent and his... Coach-ness. If you don't love Coach Taylor, your heart is black. As for Mrs. Coach (my second favorite person), she's bearing up well under the stress of being pregnant, having a bratty, hormonal teenager in the house and a husband four hours away... but I'm thinking Coach Taylor will have his blue-clad, Panther self back in Dillon before Buddy Garrity can yell State! (Did you not see his heart swell when he started giving out those Championship rings?) Kudos, as usual, to Kyle and Connie for being amazing. Her restraint when she finds out Eric has to go back to Austin early, and the tears when he shuts the door... awesome. Also loved the conversation between Coach and Julie after he picks her up at the bar, "You have GOT to be kidding me!" And let's be honest, Gracie Taylor might be the cutest name I've ever heard.

Matt and Julie: Jules!!! Stop it! Forget The Swede and his stupid band (I am not a fan of what I saw in next week's preview). Stop complaining that you have a perfect boyfriend and worrying about ending up like your parents (who are AWESOME). Stop being a teenager! (I'm sorry, I taught them and they annoy me.) And get your little, blonde head to that party with Matt Saracen. *sigh* I know, I know. They're in high school, and will inevitably break up. And get back together. And break up. But they were so sweet last season. I need the sweetness. And if she doesn't want him, damn it, I do! (Perhaps therein lies the reason for my frustration.) As Coach says, "What about the Saracen?" As for Matt, LOVE anytime he has interaction with Coach T - and the grocery store scene was no exception. "Don't just stand by and watch it happen." Hopefully he won't...

Landry and Tyra: Here is the point of contention for everyone. I do take some slight issue with this - especially considering Landry is who I generally rely on for comic relief. And it was okay... until the very end. Still funny that he's completely befuddled when he's around her, that she's being his friend and that he's her, "knight in shining armor." But seriously, why is the guy from 8 months ago suddenly following her around. And if the guy showed up and tried to attack her for a SECOND time and they were defending themselves... why didn't they call the dang police?? Because this murder/drop in the river could possibly be a bit too dramatic for FNL. But I trust them. I do. So let's see how they handle this one. (P.S. Why is Landry trying to get on the football team?) And by the way, are Tyra and Lyla friends now? I want them to be...

Lyla and (let's just put her with) Riggins: Wow. I know some fans get annoyed with Lyla, but I'm actually impressed with the realism here (people can moan and groan all they want, but it is a big part of some people's lives), and kind of interested to see where they take the storyline. And say what you want, but her prayer at the dinner table was hysterical. "... and to give others at the table the strength to remember that a mother of three should not be wearing skinny jeans. Amen." (So, did Lyla graduate or is she now a Senior, just no longer cheering?) Throw Tim Riggins in the mix and I'm thinking we'll see a little give and take, a little struggle for Lyla between the past and her new life. Especially since she's still his, "number one." And speaking of Riggins, the boy is losing it. LOSING it. And I don't think it's any small coincidence that Lyla is there, offering to save his soul. She can get mad and pissy, but we all know she still cares. Which leads me to wonder about...

Street: Where does he stand with Lyla? He and Rig left last season on good terms and he's there to defend Rig to the new coach, but what about his lady friends? And as for Jason's job, I sense some issues to flesh out with his place in Dillon and on the team. 'Cause we all know he doesn't want to be the mascot.

Buddy: I know you're just trying to protect your kids from becoming part of some cult, (And I laughed out loud with Eric when Buddy wondered why anyone would find him annoying.) but come on, Buddy, you're sleeping at work and getting into fights? You need to go see the guidance Counselor.

Smash: Where were you tonight? Besides the pool?

Dear New Dillon Panther Football Coach,
I don't like you. You don't care about the kids. You're rude and will never have the team's respect. Go away.
Sincerely,
Proof

The Office: 4x02

2007-10-06T14:42:00.000-05:00

The Office
4x02
Dunder Mifflin Infinity

*eye blink*

Um...

*eye blink*

I take issue with this week's episode. Maybe it's because the premiere was so fantastic, but Thursday night was - dare I say it - disappointing. The first half hour was fine, but the second was just... off. For as much as there was to love, there was just as much to... not... love.

Jim and Pam were fantastic. Loved the break room kiss and Toby's jealous memo and subsequent unwillingness to let them sign a "love contract." Michael's, "day that will live in infamy" and Angela and Phyllis's comments were funny (Phyllis is hardcore), as was the interchange between PB&J about the magic being gone. They're officially the cutest thing I've ever seen - no doubt. OH! And how much did I love JK's face after Ryan tried to hit on Pam. "I guess he can't get ANY girl he wants." Thankyouverymuch.

And sadly, as much as I love this show, and as much as I know it's NOT all about Jim and Pam - they were the best part of this episode for me. Honorable mentions:

Dwangela. I'm interested in the direction of the relationship now - whether or not they'll overcome the death of Sprinkles. Some very funny stuff between the two of them, not to mention Dwight breaking into tears in the car with Michael...

Kelly. "I'm pregnant." So funny. So delusional and sad... but so funny.

But then, there was the second half hour. Goodie baskets and driving into a lake and yelling at clients... I just... I wasn't feeling it. And for some reason, the lack of "feeling it" for this show, is a huge loss for me. Like some sort of gap in the universe of funny. I still trust the writers and the show - one episode doesn't do me in - I just hated feeling this way after such a strong opening.

Still, I fully expect to see Ryan fall flat on his smug, little face. And I can't wait for that.

A smattering...

2007-10-01T22:59:00.000-05:00

Last night was the Season 2 Premiere of Brothers and Sisters. You know how I am about the Walkers - LOVE them (though, sadly, they've been slightly eclipsed by the Taylors over on FNL). Poor Nora spent much of the summer alone, save for black sheep, Rebecca - her dead husband's love child, who's now living in Kitty's old room. Confused? Heh. Somehow it works for the kooky clan - and I'll always give Rebecca the benefit of the doubt because I feel certain one day she'll go back to Ephram. Oops, is that the wrong show? Anywho, a few questions/comments:

1. I feel bad for Kitty. Are we going to start every season on her cursed birthday?
2. Since when did Joe want a divorce?? He's the one that screwed up and got kicked out. Now he's the one who wants to end it? Um...
3. I see some bumps in the road for Tommy and Julia.
4. I wonder if Kitty and Robert will actually get married... and will he get elected? That would be interesting... and strange. Can you imagine the Walkers in the White House?!
5. A shocking lack of Justin! Bring him home now!

--

Still liking Chuck. It's just super cute - or am I confusing the show with Zachary Levi? Nah. It's a fun show... and I'm especially excited about the casting news/photos released recently. Cutie-patootie Rachel Bilson is headed to Buy More. Not sure who she's playing (Is it possible she's the ex-girlfriend Bryce stole?) or when her arc begins, but I love me some R Bils. Plus, who knows... Zach is cute and very Adam Brody/Seth Cohen-ish... and we know she likes the type. How cute would the two of them be?

Number one reason of the night to watch Chuck? Shout outs to other awesome shows! Chuck's brain is set off by an image and amongst the flashing pictures we hear him say, "Flight 815 was shot down..."

Looks like the Chuck peeps are LOST fans. Solidarity, baby.

--

Claire cut off her toe. And watched it grow back. Gross. And seriously... West is obviously flying in the sky, look up. Mr. Muggles sees him, but you don't? I see some angsty, teenage, "we're so different, no one understands us," bonding ahead. Wonder if West takes Bear on a magic carpet ride next week... Claire's about to enter a whole new world. /Cheesy Disney jokes. On a side note, I sort of love that Bear uses her powers at home (the ring in the water) and that Mom's "in it" and not still being brainwashed.

The guy that was beating Peter up, when he was tied to the chair, where have I seen him before? It's making me batty. I wonder if the Irish thugs will give Peter his life box next week. (I'm sorry, but NBC needs to stop with The Box promo. It's just sad in comparison to, "Save the Cheerleader.") It can't be that simple... plus he was making out with cute bar maid sister... hey, if I were him, I'd want to stay in Ireland, too, so I say, work whatever angle you have to for some time on European soil. (And as cute as he and Hayden are, all the talk of him hooking up with Claire, totally grosses me out.) And in the words of Hubby, who Blackberry Messaged me during the ep, "Milo looks ripped. Heeeeeey."

Still sort of bored with the Takezo K. story... save the visuals on David Anders, whom it appears, is of the same power family as Bear. Warriors and Cheerleaders unite!

The Haitian returns. The virus returns. Mohinder keeps handing out blood to cure people - that can't be good, I'm just sayin'.

Creepiest new hero? Maya. What the HELL is she doing?

That preview for next week better not be faking me out, AGAIN. As in, Sylar better be back. And bring on episode 5 already... I'm ready for some Kristen Bell!

I am a little stitious.

2007-09-27T23:02:00.000-05:00

The Office
4x01: Fun Run
QUOTES
(And boy were there lots of them tonight!)

Tech guy: Yeah, what kind of video?
Pam: (embarassed) A... celebrity sex tape.
Jim: Really? What kind of... celebrity?
Pam: Not relevant.
Jim: How much did you pay for it?
Pam: Not relevant.
Jim: You paid for it!?
Pam: It all happened so fast!

Pam: Jim and I went to dinner a few times when he got back from New York. I talked him through his break up. It's really nice to be good friends again.

Kevin: Are you kidding me! Pam and Jim are totally hooking up. All they do is smile. They're just keeping it a secret. Right?
Oscar: I don't know. There is no evidence of intimacy. They've been in remarkably good moods, could be other things.
Kevin: Are you kidding me!

Michael: I took her to the hospital, and the doctors tried to save her life. They did the best that they could, and she is going to be okay.
Stanley: What is wrong with you? Why did you have to phrase it like that?

Michael: She has a slight, pelvical fracture.

Michael: Kind of a good news, bad news there. I was able to be on the scene so quickly, because I was in the car that hit her.
Jim: Who was driving?
Pam: (off Michael's silence) Oh, Michael.

Jim: One day Michael came in complaining about a speed bump on the highway. I wonder who he ran over then.

Dwight: It's only Meredith.
Michael: Yeah, it's only Meredith, thank God.

Dwight: Hey, why did you do it?
Michael: It was an accident.
Dwight: Was she talking back?
Michael: No.
Dwight: Got sick of that face? Did she owe you money? Uh oh, is this downsizing? Did she spurn your advances.

Pam: Hey guys, we're all gonna visit Meredith at lunch, and we're kicking in $5 for flowers.
Kevin: Who's we? You and Jim?
Pam: No, um, me and Stanley and Phyllis so far.
Kevin: Oh. I bet Jim goes, too.
Pam: Yeah, I haven't asked him yet.
Kevin: Oh, I bet you ask.
Pam: I was planning on it.
Kevin: I bet you were.

Angela: I have to give her her meds. Pet her. And who will she eat lunch with?
Pam: Can't your other cats keep her company?
Angela: There's bad blood. Jealousies. Cliques.
Pam: Angela! You are the chairman of the Party Planning Committee. I shouldn't even be planning this. It's your job.
Angela. Ugh! Alright!

Michael: So, I need a little treat for the gang, something to win their affections back.
Ryan: Back? Why is that, Michael?
Michael: Well, I ran down Meredith in my car.
Ryan: Ohhh! Did you do it on purpose?
Michael: No, I was being negligent.

Angela: Hey, D?
Dwight: Hey, Monkey, what's up?
Angela: Can you do me a little favor? Go to my place at lunch and give Sprinkles her medicine?
Dwight: Sure.
Angela: I have to visit the alchie.
Dwight: Check to see if she's faking. If a car hit me, it wouldn't crack my pelvis. You know what, I bet she cracked it at home, jumped in front of the car to get some Worker's Comp.
Angela: I wouldn't put it past her.

Pam: I can take three people.
Jim: I can also take three people.
Oscar: (to Kevin) Separate cars.

Michael: Yaaaay, PAM!

Stanley: You cannot be serious. You ran a woman over this morning.
Michael: Everyone inside the car was fine... Stanley!

Michael: Guess what? I have flaws. What are they? Oh, I don't know. I sing in the shower. Sometimes I spend too much time volunteering. Occasionally, I'll hit somebody with my car. So sue me. No... don't... sue me. That's the opposite of the point I'm trying to make.

Michael: I hate hospitals. In my mind, they are... associated with sickness.

Jim: I think she's awake.
Michael: No, she's in a coma.
Nurse: No.

Phyllis: Does it hurt terribly?
Meredith: No, it's not too bad. They had me on a lot of painkillers.
Creed: Oh, really. What kind? Codine? Vicodin? Percosette? Oxycontin? Paladone? What...
Meredith: I have no idea.

Michael: You know what I thought would be sort of fun, is if you forgave me in front of everybody.
Meredith: Michael, I'm not gonna do that.
Michael: 'Cause, you know what they say in the Bible, about forgiveness? Forgiveness, is next to godliness.
Angela: That's not...

Michael: Do I need to be liked? Absolutely not. I like to be liked. I enjoy being liked. I have to be liked. But it's not like this, compulsive need to be liked, like my need to be praised.

Dwight: Hey, Monkey.
Angela: Any problems?
Dwight: Well, you left the TV on. And your cat is dead.
Angela: What!
Dwight: Sparkles, the white one...
Angela: (crying) Sprinkles.
Dwight: Is dead. That was the sick one, right?
Angela: (crying) Uh huh. I... thought she had more time.
Dwight: Nope.
Angela: Did she... look... when you saw her... how was she looking?
Dwight: Really dead. Like a, just a, dead cat. So... Hey, come on. Don't be sad. Just, okay... she's in a better place. Actually, the place that she's in is the freezer. Because of the odor.

Pam: Michael, Angela's cat died.
Michael: Sprinkles?

Michael: This office is cursed! And we need to do something about it!

Michael: Well, I am taking responsibility. And it is up to me, to get rid of the curse that hit Meredith with my car. I'm not superstitious, but I am a little stitious.

Michael: Did anyone do anything involving an Indian burial ground?
Oscar: Like what?
Michael: Like park on it. Or dig up a body. Toby, you have anything you want to tell us?
Toby: No. I did not violate an Indian burial ground. In fact, I had some good luck recently. Alfredo's pizza picked my business card of the basket, so I get a week of free pies.
Michael: Perfect. So our tragedy is your good luck. Satan.

Angela: Sprinkles never hurt a soul. God, in your infinite wisdom, how can you do this? She wasn't ready. She had so much left to accomplish.
Dwight: It is only a cat.
Angela: You never... you don't like them.
Dwight: Cats do not provide milk. Or wool, or meat.

Michael: I would now like to talk about each of your individual religious beliefs.
Toby: Oh. Michael, you can't ask about religious beliefs.
Michael: Satan (pointing at Toby), is a master of lies. Everything he says is the opposite.
Toby: Alright. Then you can ask about religious beliefs.
Michael: Thank you for the permission. Psych!

Creed: I've been involved in a number of cults. Both as a leader and a follower. You have more fun as a follower, but make more money as a leader.

Michael: Kelly, you are Hindu, so you believe in Buddha.
Kelly: That's Buddhists.
Michael: Are you sure?
Kelly: No.

Michael: You spend your whole life, trying to get people to like you. And then you run over one person with your car... and it's not even one of the popular ones... and everybody gets on your case. Doesn't make any sense. God is dead.
Kelly: If there was a God, then Ryan and I would be married by now.
Michael: Maybe believing in God was a mistake. What did people believe in before? The sun. Maybe there's some sort of animal, that we can make a sacrifice to. Like... a giant buffalo, or some sort of monster, like something with the body of a walrus, with the head of a sea lion. Or something with the body of an egret, with the head of a mere cat, or... just... the head of a monkey, with the antlers of a reindeer, with the body of... a porcupine.
Jim: I will do some research.
Pam: Let me help you with that.

Michael: I know a lot of you are very upset with me, for endangering Meredith's life, by hitting her, with my car, but it may make you feel a little bit better to know, that Dwight endangered her life by putting a garbage bag over her head that had a bat in it.
Jim: Six and one, really.
Michael: Turns out, Meredith has been exposed to Rabies, which is like 10 times worse, than a little crack in your pelvis. Thanks to me, she went to the hospital, and I saved her life. Curse is broken. Curse is broken, people! Ohhh, there is a God, and he has a plan for us, after all.

Michael: Is there a God? If not, then what are all these churches for? And who is Jesus's dad?

Kevin: Oh, well. If they aren't together now, then they probably never will be. I thought they'd be good together, like PB & J. Pam Beesly and Jim. What a waste! What. A. Waste.

Pam: I told you I'm not dating anyone. And even if I was, I don't think it's anyone's business. I mean, when I do fall in love, like when it's for real, the last person I'm gonna talk about it to, is a camera crew, or my coworkers. Almost marrying Roy Anderson, is as close to Pamela Anderson as I ever want to be. Trust me, when I fall in love, you'll know.

Michael: Hi Stankley, how many sponsors so far?
Stanley: Zero.

Angela: This is Halloween last year. Just a couple of kittens. Out on the town.

Angela: (to Pam) I’m having relationship problems. And since you’re always having relationship problems, I thought you’d be able to give me some advice.

Jim: So what’s your strategy for this race?
Pam: Well, I’m going to start fast. Then I’m going to run fast in the middle. Then I’m going to end fast.
Jim: Why won’t more people do that?
Pam: ‘Cause they’re stupid.

Pam: Yeah, I gave him a ride home because … we’re dating.
Jim: Wow. There it is.
Pam: Yeah. We haven’t told anybody, but it’s going really great. Right?
Jim: It is going really great.

Michael: I always imagined it with a giant check.
Jim: Yeah, I mean personally, I am definitely on board with the giant check.
Pam: Giant check it is.
Dwight: I don’t know. On the other hand, it does leave less money for bat birth control.

Pam: There is no such thing as a rabies doctor.

Michael: Have you met that kid? Not going to college.

Pam: Michael, 5K means five kilometers, not five thousand miles.

Pam: So I closed the door, but the image of his …
Jim: Baguette.
Pam: … dangling participle …
Jim: Ooh.
Pam: … still burned in my eyes.

Pam: On average, how many hours a day do you spend naked in your office?

Pam: I didn’t see where it started, but I saw where it ended.
Jim: Gross.

Pam: They say if you’re nervous around someone, you should picture them naked. I do not recommend this strategy. Try picturing them with more clothes on. Or a funny coat.

Jim: Oh, I’m sorry. Is this a working office? And not a French beach?

Michael: Myth: Three Americans every year die from rabies. Fact: Four Americans every year die from rabies.

Jim: Ooo, an estate sale. Wanna go in?
Pam: I don't know, I'm really committed to winning.
Jim: Okay, but what if I told you that all the money you spend here, goes to preventing a disease that's already been cured?
Pam: Mmm... yes.
Jim: That's what I thought.
Pam: Yeah.
Jim: Right? Let's do some good.

Pam: You have reached the offices of Dunder Mifflin Scranton. Currently the entire staff is out doing the Michael Scott D.M.S.M.P.M.C. Rabies Awareness Pro-Am Fun Run Race.
Michael: For The Cure.
Pam: Leave a message.

Andy: Gah! Watch the nipples, Kevin!

Dwight: Are you feeling better?
Angela: No.
Dwight: Well, you look cute as a button.

Angela: Cat heaven is a beautiful place. But you don’t get there if you’re euthanized!

Pam: I know you, Michael. I saw you naked.
Michael: You don’t know me. You’ve just seen my penis.

The Office: 4x01

2007-09-27T22:37:00.001-05:00

The Office
4x01
Fun Run

Yes. Yes, it was very fun. Like, the most fun I've had in AGES. And because I'm feeling slightly warm and tingly all over, I have to start... yeah, you know where.

It's more than just "a date," it's DATING!

I'm not sure there's anything more perfect than the Jim and Pam I saw in this episode - and I can't be the only one. Surely, Greg Daniels will fall asleep to the screams of fangirls from across the nation tonight. And being one of them, I refuse to think about obligatory bumps in the road, and instead, choose to relish tonight for what it was... From Kevin's investigation and the covert kiss in the car (ohmygodtheykissedforreal), to the camera crew calling them out, Pam's confession and Jim's blushing (why is he THE cutest thing I've ever seen), to her checking him out from her perch at reception and the looks and the jokes and the hand-holding (oh my word, the hand-holding), to the overall and in general feeling that I might die from their sheer cuteness... it was just... amazing. And yes, I am a female and therefore allowed to think all those things without judgement. And then to rewind. And rewind. And rewind. See, I could have written a whole blog, complete with pictures, on this subject, but I condensed it to a paragraph, because I know there is more to The Office and its brilliance than Jim and Pam... (even though I feel they are a very import part, let's say, "the heart," of the show.) *ahem* And now I need new screencaps.

I was laughing less than 60 seconds into this episode, always a good sign.

1. Let's begin with Jan, passed out in the bed, followed immediately by Michael, hitting Meredith with his car because he was being, in his own words, "negligent."

2. Kevin, the investigative reporter, who's not quite as good as the documentary team.

3. D, Monkey and the Sprinkles instructions/situation. Nevermind, Angela's black suit of mourning, black running ensemble and fury at Dwight, including pushing him into office furniture. Oh yeah, and Dwight's farming principles. In his defense, how was Dwight to know Sprinkles wouldn't get into Cat Heaven?

4. Michael's religious icon. Hysterical. I really had issues breathing during this part. (Sidenote to the writers: Presbyterian is not a religion. It's a denomination of the Christian religion. Not to be picky, but... I'm just sayin'.) And I'm sorry, but why was the tech guy still there? Working out the porn situation?

5. Dwight discussing "putting farm animals out of their misery" while visiting Meredith. And why has she been bitten by so many rodents?

6. Michael's attempt to lessen his attempt on Meredith's life, by focusing on Dwight's. From last season.

7. Andy's nipple chaffing. Disgusting, disturbing... and somehow, hilarious.

8. The couple of kittens. Out on the town.

9. Angela's relationship discussion with Pam. LOVE that she doesn't even hide it from Pam anymore. Also love how disgusted she is by Pam's being a "dog person."

10. The giant check, bat birth control, Rabies doctor and fake nurse.

11. Oh. My. God. Pam seeing Michael's "dangling participle." And the conversation/talking heads that followed, re: European Offices... it's just not fair to people with Rabies.

12. Creed's age. Heh. Wonder what benefits he's getting from that.

13. Toby stretching, while Michael carbo-loads. P.S. Who gave Dwight a gun?

14. Stanley, Creed and Oscar at the bar.

15. Michael and Meredith in the hospital. Sharing lollipops.

*Quotes to follow tomorrow. I'm only half-way through... these hour longs are gonna kill me.

Grey's Anatomy: 4x01

2007-09-27T22:27:00.000-05:00

Grey's Anatomy
4x01
A Change is Gonna Come
SEASON 4 PREMIERE

I'd love to sit here and wax poetic about Grey's Anatomy and the possibility that Season 4 might (tonight gave me a glimmer of hope) be able to overcome the tragedy that was Season3. But if I did, I'd also have to talk about the ridiculousness of the Meredith and Derek story, Alex's facial hair, and Izzie doing surgery on a deer. Or the fact that it's still way too "themey" (come on, Alex actually gave Christina a bag of change). But I can't. I can't focus on much of anything... except what just happened on The Office.

So, I'll just say...

1. I enjoyed the opening, where our Interns, now Residents, give the same speech to their newbies, that Bailey gave to them three years ago. Nice continuity.

2. George and Izzie have got to stop it.

3. I have mixed feelings about Lexie.

4. Bailey still rules.

5. And, once more, I'm really, really, really sick of the Meredith/Derek thing.

House: 4x01

2007-09-25T22:03:00.000-05:00

HOUSE

4x01
Alone
SEASON 4 PREMIERE

What with the title of the episode, I feel it appropriate to feature Hugh - minus the rest of the cast - in this week's recap photo. Plus, I love him.

Where to begin, friends? Should I focus on the joy a new season brings to my little heart? Should I lament the absence of Chase, Cameron and Foreman from this week's episode? Or, I don't know... laugh with glee at the prank Wilson played on House? I choose option 3.

We see House, living life without his ducklings and completely unwilling to hire a new team. So much so that he brings in a janitor and hilariously names him, Dr. Buffer, even sending him to deal with patients in his stead. Cuddy is not a fan and, once again, she and Wilson have varying opinions on how to deal with Greg when he's being... *ahem* difficult. I'm siding with Wilson tonight, out of sheer love for his creativity. Knowing just where to hit, Wilson steals House's guitar, sending ransom notes and photos (making it completely obvious the whole time - I loved the paper with letter holes cut in the front), and promising the return of his friend's prized possession - after he interviews new fellowship candidates. You can imagine how well this goes over with House, who in turn, kidnaps one of Wilson's patients. Classic. Seeing House and Wilson onscreen together, gives me the same giddy feeling I get when Michael and Toby share a scene on The Office, and sometimes I laugh so hard... I cry. Tonight, for instance, I had to hit the pause button on my Tivo when Wilson (doing his best to be ominous) muttered, "Ever tightened a guitar string really, really slowly? Past the point it can handle the strain? It makes this weird... sound. Almost like a scream. Eeeah. Eeeah." Wilson, you dog. I won't even mention the Telenovela you had on your Tivo. Teehee.

Back at the farm, Cuddy and House resume their, IloveyouIhateyou routine I adore, complete with a Magic 8 Ball and inappropriate comments about Cuddy's Water Bra. They just need to get it over with already. Again (if we believe their little season three exchange). And in the end, it's Cuddy (the enabler) who turns the knife, listing the attributes of Foreman, Chase and Cameron, and how they'd have solved the case for him, "days ago." Of course, she gave him waaaay too much leeway (as usual) when she told him to hire a new team, "I don't care how you do it. Just do it." Cut to House and his girl-guitar, with a roomful of doctors at their "interview."

Ah, Greg, this is why I love you.

Next week: House thinks he's hallucinating when he sees his ducklings back at Princeton-Plainsboro. Let the fun begin.

Weirdness: I saw not one bottle of Vicodin, nor one pill pop, tonight. Veddy, veddy strange.

Reaper: 1x01

2007-09-25T20:42:00.000-05:00

Reaper

1x01
PILOT

My first encounter with Reaper was reading the script a few months ago and then, watching the Pilot a few days later. I mentioned back then, that I really like the show, and the opinion still stands, but I have a slight beef with their continuity department after re-watching it tonight on the CW.

After filming the original pilot (the one I saw), there was a casting change. Nikki Reed, who played Sam's love interest, Andie, was replaced by Missy Peregrym (Candice from Heroes). I have no problem with the casting, but I DO have a problem with all the scenes they reshot with Missy. Why? Because Brett Harrison (Sam) was clean-shaven in every scene, save the ones with Missy... where he had a nice little porn-stache. Why did no one pay attention to this? Why did they let Brett grow facial hair? Am I the only one who noticed... and found it completely distracting?

Taking a leap with Journeyman!

2007-09-25T00:01:00.000-05:00

Interesting. I left the TV on NBC after Heroes and found myself actually drawn to/liking the premiere of Journeyman. Especially when I realized it's basically just a new, flashy, modern version of Quantum Leap (which I totally adored). I'm not gonna get all crazy and start talking weekly write-ups, but I'll be watching for a while... check out whether or not it's really worth all the "don't miss" hype at E! Online. So far, so good.

NOTE: I have not finished watching Season 2 of HIMYM, so there will be no coverage of the S3 Premiere. Thank goodness for TIVO.

Heroes: Season 2, Chapter 1

2007-09-24T23:10:00.001-05:00

Heroes

Season 2, Chapter 1
Four Months Later...
SEASON 2 PREMIERE

I liked the way they opened this one... a smattering of scenes, new characters and old, during the time we missed. An easy, yet effective way to show us things have changed, the story is still moving and we've got some "catch up" to play.

Tonight, I'm working in story groups, starting with the Bennets. Or maybe I should say, Butlers. (Honestly, not the greatest, or most super secret, name change. They could have at least gone with a different letter of the alphabet.) HRG gets little bear all set up for her first day of school in California (again, with the terrible anonymity) and wants her to be as un-noticeable as possible (and we know from the moment he says it, that's NEVER going to happen). She fights the urge to answer a question about Charles Darwin (we get it, evolution) in class, and refrains from taking a swan dive off the P.E. platform (who has one of those things at school... and why do the cheerleaders on this show ALWAYS have on their uniforms), but she's struggling with her inability to be herself (you know, breaking bones, etc. and regenerating), leading to a rather strained phone call between her and DNA Daddy (more on that later). Considering the promos of Bear and West (cool name) getting all kissy face, and him flying, Clay Aiken style, outside her room, I expect she's not gonna keep her secret for long... or stop wearing a cheerleading uniform.

Mother Bennet-Butler is upset that Mr. Muggles can't rest on his puppy competition laurels (you don't have any laurels, Saracen, not a damn one) while under cover. Could they make this woman seem any crazier? Little does she know, ol' Noah's out breaking his boss's fingers for asking him to finish a coffee break. (Why HRG working at Kinkos?) Still, it's all part of Daddy B's big plan to take down "The Company" with Suresh.

Speaking of Suresh. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE that he and Parkman are Molly's guardians. Could there BE anything cuter? I don't think so. And it appears while Mohinder is out baiting "The Company," Matty is passing his police exams (nice recovery from the gunshot wounds, man) and questioning Molly on some rather disturbing drawings and dreams. Poor kid. And poor Matt. He and Janice are divorced now (what?)... but I'm sure that's not the end of that story.

And I'm wondering if the creepy guy Molly keeps drawing and seeing (aside from being the baddie that's bigger than Sylar) is the one who's sending death threats to the older heroes. That whole situation was odd to me. Intriguing, but odd. Mainly because, a) Ando had on a suit? and b) If the guy that pushed Mr. Nakamura off the building was old, he sure dressed a lot like Sylar. Wonder if Mrs. Petrelli is gonna bite it? I sorta hope so, but somehow, I doubt it.

Which leads me to Nathan. Wow. Beard. (Someone call for a Jack Shepard character arc?) Apparently, since he and Peter went birds eye in the finale, he's lost his house (no mention of the wife and kids) and his political prowess/aspirations. And he's drunk. A lot. And seeing really creepy reflections of himself in mirrors. Don't worry, Nate, Peter's alive. And hot. And chained to a wall in Ireland. Without his memory, but somehow, with hair that was cut perfectly by the flames of himself.

Hiro. I hope at some point I get this story. Like, is David Anders going back to the future with Masi, because that would be AWESOME. And I love that DA is still rocking the British accent. It's like Sark got the lead role in a really strangely costumed movie. I know I should focus on Hiro here, but I can't. He's just doing his Hiro thing... I'm sure he'll inspire Takezo (I can't spell that name) into action at some point.

Lastly, what is this Maya chick's power, because it's freaking me out?

Next week: More shirtless Peter, and hopefully some Sylar. And really, can we just skip to episode five so I can be in the presence of Kristen Bell again?

I'm so glad this show is back on...

Chuck: 1x01

2007-09-24T23:01:00.000-05:00

Chuck
1x01
PILOT

I professed my love for Chuck back in July, so I won't wax on AGAIN now. I am, however, anxious to see what you thought of tonight's premiere. Me? I liked it even more the second time around... the perfect mixture of snappy humor, Alias spy-gear, and Jim Halpert charm. What more could a girl ask for? (You know, besides the actual Jim Halpert and Chuck and Saracen and... ok, I'll stop.)

Gossip Girl: 1x01

2007-09-19T22:57:00.000-05:00

Gossip Girl
1x01
PILOT

Ah, the life of the privileged teen! Josh Schwartz, you've cornered the market.

Somehow, I failed to post in regard to my decision to watch Gossip Girl (or I did and don't remember, maybe I was at the hotel bar with Serena). I was iffy. Mainly because it's been done. In California. With the same creator. BUT, I had a chance to read the pilot and see the footage The CW released early and I liked it... but kept it a secret because, well, let's be honest, it's another soap opera. For teenagers. (Even though, if you have a teenager, you probably shouldn't let them watch it.) Still, we all need a guilty pleasure show. And it's set in New York, so eye candy in the scenery and, come on, Kristen Bell is the narrator (which is probably the reason I picked up the script to read it in the first place).

The pilot, as with most, is all set up. The characters as follows:

Gossip Girl: New York's most infamous teen blogger, identity unknown. The entire social scene depends on her for scandalous, "as it happens" information. Only secret she won't spill? Her name.

Serena: Beautiful, mysterious Queen Bee who disappeared, without reason, to boarding school and has returned, throwing everyone's world into turmoil. Most notably Blair (her wayward best friend) and Blair's boyfriend, Nate, with whom Serena shares a secret. She's trying to change her ways, deal with family issues (a troubled brother) and is genuinely a nice, sweet character.

Blair: Seems willing to do anything to hold on to the power she's gained in Serena's absence... especially when it comes to Nate. Not so nice. I smell a bitch in the making.

Dan: The regular Joe, living in the world of the elite. He goes to school with all the trust fund kids, but isn't one of them - an instant outsider. He's got a thing for Serena and finds himself suddenly, luckily, thrust into her company. Is that... do I hear... oh, yep, yep, that's a love triangle, ladies and gentlemen. Perhaps even a trapezoid.

Nate: Blair's boyfriend "since Kindergarten," who's beginning to question his privileged world and all that comes with it. Not to mention his relationships with Blair and Serena.

Jenny: Dan's little sister, whose desperate to be one of the "in crowd."

Chuck: The asshole. Reveling in his world and milking it for all it's worth.

And yeah, there are parents (it appears Serena's mom and Dan's dad may have had a little somethin' back in the day), but who really cares about them?

You're either gonna love GG (oh my gosh, I don't know if I can call it that, as Gilmore Girls held the letters for 7 years) or hate it. It's not gonna rock your world. It's no House or Friday Night Lights, by any stretch of the imagination, so take it for what it is. Enjoy with a pint of ice cream and move along to something smarter the next night.

Schedule and Info

2007-09-19T02:04:00.001-05:00

As my Fall TV Season officially begins (ohmygoshilovethistimeofyear) with the Gossip Girl premiere tomorrow night, I thought I'd do a little update on plans, schedules, etc.

Nothing much has changed, other than the addition of Friday Night Lights, heretofore known as FNL, to the roster, as it's now one of my must-see shows. (See previous blog entry for gushing.)

Most of you know this, but as fate (or really sucky timing) would have it, this fall is starting off a bit crazy at home. I'm looking for a new job after finishing my summer school program, trying to find a place to live, and feeling generally, rather stressed.

That said, you may not find a blog for every show, every week. I'm sure I'll have something to say about all the premieres, especially when it comes to the newbies, but you probably won't find a weekly HIMYM or Private Practice recap. Maybe an end of the week round-up, general thoughts about what's going on in TV Land. (Read: Things that pissed me off/made me happy/both.)

Still, there are some shows you can count on for regular coverage (it's possible others will be added once life has settled down). And the winners are:
Heroes, HOUSE, The Office, Friday Night Lights.

Fall Premiere Dates
(and There's Proof's Viewing Schedule)

Wednesday, September 19
8/7c - *Kid Nation, CBS
9/8c - *Gossip Girl, CW

Monday, September 24
8/7c - *Chuck, NBC
8/7c - How I Met Your Mother, CBS
9/8c - Heroes, NBC

Tuesday, September 25
9/8c - House, Fox
9/8c - *Reaper, CW

Wednesday, September 26
9/8c - *Private Practice, ABC

Thursday, September 27
9/8c - Grey's Anatomy, ABC
9/8c - The Office, NBC

Sunday, September 30
10/9c - Brothers and Sisters, ABC

Wednesday, October 3
8/7c - *Pushing Daisies, ABC

Friday, October 5
9/8c - Friday Night Lights, NBC

Friday Night Lights

2007-09-19T01:28:00.001-05:00

I'm not feeling particularly eloquent tonight, so I'm letting the picture above do most of the Friday Night Lights talking for me. I will say that the hype on this show is ALL true. It's AMAZING. I heard about it last season (but you know I can't get involved half-way through), a few weeks ago from a commenter here, and then, from one of my trusted TV confidantes, who used the word "obsession" when recommending the show to me... he wasn't exaggerating.

I watched the first season in 3 days and stayed up until almost 5 a.m. two of those three nights to do so. Yeah. Seriously. I don't even know how to describe it, other than to tell you, if you watch the first episode, you'll be hooked. And I'm not just saying that because I grew up in the South and cheered for a 5-A, High School State Champion football team (that's real, baby.)

It's real, it's funny, it's people, it's life. It's not melodramatic, and doesn't depict an unrealistic lifestyle where teenagers rule the world in Marc Jacobs and go to Happy Hour for martinis. It's about the MOST ordinary things in life, that are amazingly extraordinary to watch. And it's not all about football, so don't let that deter you.

Kyle Chandler (who plays Coach Taylor) is my new favorite person. What he does with this character is brilliant. And when he's on-screen with TV wife, Connie Britton, look out. I laugh, I cry, I rewind. Add daughter Julie (played by Aimee Teegarden) to the mix, and you might be looking at my new favorite TV family (sorry, Walkers).

Outside the Taylor family, Matt Saracen (who has a really sweet relationship with Coach Taylor's daughter) and Tim Riggins are probably my favorite characters, but all of them: Street, Smash, Lyla, Tyra and adorkable, hilarious Landry, stand out as individual, unique and interesting people - the kind I want to know more about... for many more obsessive seasons.

Ok, see, I said I didn't have much to say... but this show brings it out of me, even when I don't feel like being particularly verbose. I really don't know what else I can say. Just WATCH IT!

Season 2 Premiere: Friday, October 5.
(But go get Season 1 and watch it first...)

59th PRIMETIME EMMY AWARDS

2007-09-16T11:24:00.000-05:00

2007 PRIMETIME EMMY AWARDS

Winners, Losers and Commentary

Preshow, E! - 6/5c

Award Show, FOX - 8/7c

A few disclaimers for the evening:
1. I cannot be held accountable for the length of this blog entry. But it's all in fun, so everyone calm down.

2. If I start talking about dresses from the preshow, and you're a guy... come back later.

3. If you read this blog, you know what I watch (obsess over). I did not, never have, do not, probably won't ever... watch The Sopranos. (We can talk about my reasons later.) I know was a good show and this was their last year and they're probably gonna take home a load of the DRAMA awards (some rightfully, some not), but airing a Series Finale has never meant a show deserved every available award in its category, and so... you will not see it listed as my favorite, nicely colored in red... and I may get a little pissed if someone takes Hugh Laurie's trophy, just because he's gone to TV Heaven. There. I said it.

4. I WILL make fun of Ryan Seacrest.

5. I've only listed the "big" categories below. Sorry if you wanted to proliferate over this year's best Mini-Series. Also below... my "Award Winners' Key."

CATEGORY

Who Won

Who I Want/ed to Win

Other

Random set of thoughts on the category...

RED CARPET ROLL

*Kristen from E! - Looks great!!

*Jennifer Morrison - LOVE you. Not sure I love the dress.

*Zachary Quinto - Evil is yummy.

*Jesse Spencer - I've never had a doctor that HOT.

*Debra Messing - Alaways looks good.

*BJ Novak - Who are you with? And... the Ryan stubble is confusing me. Are you hot or not?

*Rainn Wilson - Awww, old pictures with Seacrest. I know you probably wanted to hit him.

*America - Looks GREAT. Love the blue.

*Oh. My. Word. Masi walking in with Kristen Bell - who looks FAB in blue! The Heroes cast just got 100x cooler.

*Hayden - So cute. I'm totally into the dress.

*Ahhh, the Heroes boys. Milo, Adrian Leonard and Masi on one screen.

*Eva looks great.

*Kate Walsh - What did you do to your hair?

*Jamie Pressley's voice IRKS me.

*House newbies... I only know Olivia.

*Ellen and Portia with Ellen's videocamera. I need to see her show when that airs.

*JENNA! I just got a glimpse... awwww...

*Julia-Louis looks great in purple.

*The pink on Felicity Huffman is fabulous.

*Omar is gonna be a proud papa!

*Kristen Bell, Masi, Leonard and Adrian. Seriously, I could not love Kristen Bell anymore. So funny and cute.

*Um, JKras just walked up with someone who's pregnant. Sister? Oh... nope, just saw an interview with G and it's his agent. How sweet... and of course, I hung on his every word in the interview.

*Hugh Laurie. Marry me? Hubby loves you too, he won't mind.

*Rashida Jones looks AMAZING.

*Awww... Jenna is talking to Kristen fromE! So cute. Love her.

*Hello!! Coach Tay... I mean, Kyle Chandler!

*Steve, you funny guy... talkin' about Rainn.

*Heidi Klum is beautiful.

*What the HELL is wrong with Ellen Pompeo's hair?

*Ah! I forgot about Rachel Griffiths having an accent. Love it.

So, of course... I get to my viewing location (dad's new house has a 52" HD flatscreen) and the wireless is SUCKY! Alas, I wrote some notes throughout...

1. What is with Secrest's tie? Is it leather?

2. Rainn and Jenna both lose in the first 30 minutes. Not a good sign, my friends.

3. Hello, Kyle Chandler. I was unaware you talked like Coach Taylor in real life. I like it.

4. Ellen D. asking Hugh Laurie what we all want to know.

5. Um, Seacrest, I see JJ and Damon sitting right behind you. Prime opportunity to ask about Season 4 of LOST and you are totally blowing it.

6. Oh, Steve, I love you. "Good evening good people of TV." I don't think I could love The Office cast anymore if I tried.

7. Next year, let's cut out the whole middle section where a plethora of mini-series/TV movies no one has heard of, soak up an hour of time.

8. When did Al Gore become a red carpet darling?

9. "You picked a bad time to speak properly." Wayne Brady and Rainn Wilson, BRILLIANT. Kanye, go away. Ugh.

10. FINALLY! Greg Daniels wins for Comedy Writing. (Must add, the clip of Stephen and Ricky from Extras was hysterical. Can't wait to see that.) Dunder Mifflin was seriously robbed this year.

11. Colbert and Stewart. Once again, BRILLIANT. And how much did I love, "Ricky can't be here tonight, so we choose to give the Emmy to our friend Steve Carell!" Cue Steve running onstage to engage in silly, wonderful antics.

12. Hello Hugh. You're here to present. Wanna be my friend?

13. A couple of HUGE upsets in the Drama categories... discussed below.

And because I feel she should be singled out...

Dear Katharine Heigel,

Get over yourself. How bitchy can you be to NOT clap, sit there with a scowl on your face when TR doesn't win, correct the announcer from stage, and make the first comment when you win (I'm now regretting putting you in red as my choice earlier) be, once again, about your name. I repeat: Get. Over. Yourself.

Thanks,

There's Proof

DRAMA SERIES
Boston Legal
Grey's Anatomy
Heroes
House
The Sopranos

SHOWS THAT DESERVED A BID OVER GREY'S: Veronica Mars, LOST and Friday Night Lights (new obsession, to be discussed post-Emmys.) These shows were robbed, I tell you! Grey's, you won't win, you sucked this year, or did you forget? Heroes, if there was a newbie award, I'm sure you'd take home the trophy. House, there's no denying you deserve it (in my book, anyway)... but I'm betting this year's a Mob hit! (hahaha... *rolls eyes at self*)

COMEDY SERIES
Entourage
The Office
30 Rock
Two and a Half Men

Ugly Betty

In my world, there is no other option besides The Office. Ever. But especially this year. I know 30 Rock is supposed to be great (I'll watch it on DVD one day), but seriously... come on.

**Telecast update: Ok, I thought if anyone beat The Office, it would be Betty. But 30 Rock!! What is going on??? *sigh*

LEAD ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES

James Spader, Boston Legal
Hugh Laurie, House
Denis Leary, Rescue Me
James Gandolfini, The Sopranos
Kiefer Sutherland, 24

Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know I'm delusional that he'll win this year, but he's just as deserving as Gandolfini. Ah, well, I have last year's Golden Globes, Dolce and Gabanna speech, speech, to get me through the disappointment. (James Spader, you were fantastically sleezy in Pretty in Pink. Kiefer, I'd acknowledge you, but I'm only on the second disc of Season 2 and I heard this year sucked...)

**Telecast update: WHAT in the world is going on this year?? James Spader doesn't even know who voted for him??!

LEAD ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES
Sally Field, Brothers & Sisters
Kyra Sedgwick, The Closer
Mariska Hargitay, Law & Order: SVU
Patricia Arquette, Medium
Minnie Driver, The Riches
Edie Falco, The Sopranos

Interestingly enough, Brothers & Sisters is the only show on this ballot I watch, so by default it gets the red... still, I'm betting this one goes to Edie. OR... maybe it's all a sham and Kristen Bell already won for being AWESOME.

**Telecast update: Wow. Talk about an upset. Not that I'm complaining...

SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES

William Shatner, Boston Legal
T.R. Knight, Grey's Anatomy
Masi Oka, Heroes
Michael Emerson, Lost
Terry O'Quinn, Lost
Michael Imperioli, The Sopranos

T.R., I love you, but no. Masi, you're adorable, but too green. Michael E. and Terry... wow... you're both freakishly good, but Terry has tenure... and YES, deserves it over Imperioli.

**Telecast update: Spot on. Such a nice guy, but Terry, honey, as much as I love you (did I mention we've spoken on the phone), the pink silk shirt and sparkly tie... WOW. And Katharine Heigel needs to chill out with the pissed off face and no clapping because TR didn't win.

SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES

Rachel Griffiths, Brothers & Sisters
Katherine Heigl, Grey's Anatomy
Chandra Wilson, Grey's Anatomy
Sandra Oh, Grey's Anatomy
Aida Turturro, The Sopranos
Lorraine Bracco, The Sopranos

YIKES! I don't even know who I'd pick as my "want." Grey's sucked this year, not that the three ladies listed weren't great, and I love B&S, but am not sure Rachel will get this nod. Can I just surmise that one of the Sopranos will win and be done with it? No? Fine. I pick... Katherine, because Knocked Up was funny. Logic, people.

**Telecast update: I'm now wishing I'd chosen Rachel, gone with the gut.

LEAD ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES
Ricky Gervais, Extras
Tony Shalhoub, Monk
Steve Carell, The Office
Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock
Charlie Sheen, Two and a Half Men

Gervais, I love you by default, for giving me David Brent, but Extras is still sitting in my Neflix Q. Tony, you were AWESOME on Wings. Steve, sweet, Steve - you gave us Prison Mike, take home the Dundie. Alec, I'm sure you're good, what I'm not sure of is that your family issues won't play a part in this, plus... did you do Prison Mike? Charlie, who invited you the party?

**Telecast update: Best acceptance speech of the night!

LEAD ACTRESS IN A COMEDY SERIES
Felicity Huffman, Desperate Housewives
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, The New Adventures of Old Christine
Tina Fey, 30 Rock
America Ferrera, Ugly Betty
Mary-Louise Parker, Weeds

Er... I love you, Tina, but haven't seen 30 Rock. I can't vote for anything related to Desperate Housewives, solely on principle, so I'm going with... America (who is also in my Q).

**Telecast update: I like America. I really like her. Seems like she's got a good, humble head on her shoulders. Unlike Katharine.

SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES
Kevin Dillon, Entourage
Jeremy Piven, Entourage
Neil Patrick Harris, How I Met Your Mother
Rainn Wilson, The Office
Jon Cryer, Two and a Half Men

Can we bold, capitalize and underline HOW much Rainn Wilson deserves this?? Kevin, you... are weird. Piv, I love you, but not this year. Neil, I'm not denying your right to be here, because you crack me up on HIMYM, but it better Rainn tonight!

**Telecast update: Rainn Wilson was robbed!! Robbed, I tell you! This is an outrage! I mean, I literally gasped (a regular occurence for the rest of the evening) when they called The Piv's name.

SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A COMEDY SERIES

Jaime Pressly, My Name Is Earl
Jenna Fischer, The Office
Holland Taylor, Two and a Half Men
Conchata Ferrell, Two and a Half Men
Vanessa Williams, Ugly Betty
Elizabeth Perkins, Weeds

Jenna! Jenna! Jenna! Jenna! I can't even talk about the rest of you...

**Telecast update: WHAT!? What! What the HELL just happened out there? I'm speechless. This does not bode well for the rest of the evening.

Can you FEEL the excitement?

2007-09-15T17:13:00.000-05:00

First off, sorry for being MIA for a few weeks... but as most of the people reading this blog are family and friends who know where I've been, I'll assume you aren't too upset about it!

MORE IMPORTANTLY!!

The Emmy's are tomorrow! I know, I know... Hollywood award shows are worse than High School Homecomings, but I can't help it. I love the red carpet shows and the dresses and the (sometimes) heinous host jokes. Plus, what other night are all my favorite TV peeps in one place?!

Still, if we're talking about "hosts" and "heinous" - I do sort of have a bone to pick with the Academy in regard to their choice for this year. Seriously, Hugh Laurie was supposedly offered the job and they gave it to Seacrest?! Someone's gonna be regretting that come Monday morning.

But whatever, I'll love it to pieces anyway, especially if Jenna Fischer and Rainn Wilson win.

And if anybody out there cares, I'll probably make camp in front of a very large TV screen somewhere and update the blog as the evening moves along. Feel free to join me... Central Standard Time.

Random Round-up.

2007-09-06T01:40:00.000-05:00

1. TV Guide has formulated a nifty (and printable) 2007 Premiere Calendar. New promo pics for all the shows are also beginning to circulate - can't wait to use them for episode posts!

2. I officially want to be BFFs with the Heroes (just wait until Kristen Bell arrives and this feeling goes into overdrive) after all the pics and videos (shot by the cast) from their World Tour.

3. I'm definitely way more sad about this than than I should be, considering I don't know them personally. Still... super classy about the whole situation. *sniff*

4. So, I'm now forced to never leave home on Thursday nights. Thanks a lot, Apple. (Yes, let me go on with the drama - I know it's available other places.)

5. This is driving me crazy... and I'm not even one of those UBER-obsessed people spending every waking minute trying to figure it out. I'm SO not that industrious, instead preferring the lazy man's route and checking every day to see if he's given in and given up.

LOST and the art of the MindFrak.

2007-09-05T19:37:00.001-05:00

What... is this?

How was YOUR summer?

2007-08-29T15:29:00.000-05:00

God, I love this show.
(Season 4 Tease)

1. Pam!
2. Ryan?
3. Good to know, Karen. No, like... really, good to know.

I love lamp.

2007-08-28T03:45:00.000-05:00

Don't expect personal pictures to become the norm here at There's Proof (so ignore me and look at the blonde), but tonight I met Angela Kinsey and Kate Flannery (Angela and Meredith) from THE OFFICE!! And if you've ever read this blog before, you know how obsessed I am with that show... so I had to share pictures and details!

The fortuitous event occurred after seeing talk on Angela's MySpace about a show at IO West - an improv theater in Hollywood - that does "Inside the Improvisers Studio," where they sit down with an improv artist and talk about the craft, how they got there, etc. And tonight's guest happened to be the lovely Angela Kinsey - tickets were only $5 - I was SO there!

And it was fantastic! First off, the woman is TEENY TINY. Like an inch shorter than me and with the smallest body frame you've ever seen. Seriously, like a size 12 at Abercrombie Kids. But she was SO funny and SO cute - Southern accent out in full force. She said lots of funny things, so I wouldn't even know where to start, and most of you only care what she said about The Office, so...

(No spoilers unless you haven't seen Season 3 - and not a very big one at that.)

She talked about getting cast in the role (she read first for Pam, "I know, everyone's like, 'What, you can't be Pam!'") and how her character has grown... about Rainn Wilson being her first on-screen kiss and the funny outtakes of that particular Dwangela scene we didn't see in the episode. And she teased a little season four saying, "Well, I can't say much, but before I came here tonight, Rainn and I were filming a nighttime Dwight and Angela scene - uh oh!!!" All in all, the interview lasted about an hour, and she hung around afterward to chat with people and... TAKE PICTURES!!

She was super sweet when I met her and talked to me for a minute about our Southern accents and The Office documentary, Fandomicity - she hadn't seen it and wanted me to send the YouTube links to her MySpace.

Then there was the fabulous, Kate (we're a little blurry). She actually performed in a show at 9 p.m. that Angela was supposed to do before her interview (she had to back out to film her nighttime Dwight and Angela scene). And apparently she stuck around to see Angela, because she was standing outside after the interview, chatting with her manger. I took the opportunity to say hello. Good thing she wasn't channeling Meredith and had a shirt on!!

Sadly, no Krasinki to be seen, but still, so, so, so fun. My Dwight bobblehead has a whole new meaning to me now...

ALERT!

2007-08-24T21:38:00.000-05:00

Jack Bauer just car-jacked LIZ from Gilmore Girls!!

They really know their market.

2007-08-24T00:57:00.000-05:00

With the imminent release of, The Office: Season Three on DVD, someone at Universal decided to throw us a bone and update the DVD website with two, of what will hopefully be many, BLOOPERS. Seriously, I live for this stuff... screw three hours of "hilarious deleted scenes" (though I'll watch every single one and love it) and give me BLOOPERS!!

Oddly, a focal point of both? John Krasinski. Not that I'm complaining...

By the way, Best Buy is once again featuring a gift set with the DVD, including a mini Dwight Bobblehead, and your very own DUNDIE!! (Hello, pre-order, nice to meet you.)

And while we're on Krasinski (That's what she said!), I happened upon this picture today. Now, either Big Haircut is filming with some pretty prominent Office guest stars, or it's a peek at a scene from Leatherheads. Yeah, yeah... the latter. Either way, the person who should be in focus, is a little too blurry for my taste...

Lastly, wanna see some pics from filming on 401? Hysterical... that's all I have to say about the 7th one.

Oh!! And don't forget to check out the new, and very official, Dunder-Mifflin website. "Join the team" to get a company newsletter unlike any other.

I can't believe I'm doing this...

2007-08-23T17:17:00.001-05:00

Ok... I'll just... say it. IlikeHighSchoolMusical.

What?

I. Like. HighSchoolMusical.

There.

Happy?

I mean, yes, I'm technically going to celebrate my 10th High School Reunion next summer, so I probably shouldn't watch anything on the Disney Channel, and I rant and rave about smart, quality programming, but dammit, I can't help myself! Sure, they're just ripping off Grease and, with number 2, Dirty Dancing, and it's cheesy and overdone and ridiculous, but it's somehow, supremely entertaining. And if I were still into Tiger Beat, Zac Efron would be my Johnny Depp.

Speaking of Zac, and my reason for posting this entry, his musical number, "Bet On It," is getting a lot of play... more for humorous reasons than anything else. It's a little bit MJ, a little bit Footloose (maybe that's the reason for all the remake rumors), and his defiant foot stomp at the beginning gives me the giggles every time. But, I laughed out loud when I saw this on Sarah's blog:

What was the best part of High School Musical 2, Sarah?

Why, I'm glad you asked. It was this part when Zac Efron's character, Troy Bolton, expresses his anger through interpretive dance. It's beyond awesome.

24: Season 1 UPDATE

2007-08-23T16:53:00.000-05:00

It's now 8 a.m. on the day of the California Presidential Primary. Jack Bauer has had a rather busy night, what with his wife and daughter being kidnapped, and the baddie (why is Michael Massee so creepy?) trying to pin an assassination on him, apparently because he finds it amusing. Nevermind the security breach inside CTU (I know there's another agent playing us, is it Nina?) and the staged death of his former lover. Seriously, the guy should just give up and go have a cocktail.

Then there's Presid- oops, I mean, Senator Palmer's son, who was involved in the murder of his sister's rapist, and is now in the midst of full on "daddy issues" rage, exercising his petulance any way he can. (All I can think about is the kid's guest stint on House, and the fact that his character died... hope it's not foreshadowing for him as a Palmer.) Still, beginning this series 6 years after it started, gives me the benefit of knowing Palmer gets to the White House - so he obviously doesn't die, and the public forgives his little family drama... I just don't know how.

In short, I'm starting to dig in, feel a bit more interested - as you assured me I would. My only question... are they using some sort of freak Alias technology for all these body double baddies??

Private Practice Issues

2007-08-23T16:40:00.000-05:00

I love Kate Walsh, I do. She managed to take Addison Shepard from one of my least favorite Grey's Anatomy characters, to a person I wanted to see every week - and not everyone could have done that. But, I'm starting to get this sinking feeling about her new show, Private Practice... and I have no good reason as to why. Well, other than the access to shows 10 times more creative, smart and innovative, when I expect this one to be rather formulaic and... soap opera-ish.

I won't get into my personal issues with recasting Merrin's role (Hello! Did you see what happened to Alias after they killed off Francie??) or cutting Chris Lowell's hair (ick). My point is, there's just something about all this that's NOT working for me. Sure, I'll give it a fair shot, but as of now, it's probably the most volatile - and expendable - show on my roster this year.

But hey, I'm sure there's always a job (and a co-worker to boink) for Addie at Seattle Grace.

Save Veronica, Save the World!

2007-08-21T02:50:00.000-05:00

Heroes was always a good show, but now,
I think it's moved onto greatness!

Interview with KB about the Heroes gig and turning down LOST!

13 Episodes! I think I love Tim Kring.
(Veronica could SO kick Sylar's ass!)

24: Season 1

2007-08-19T17:52:00.001-05:00

I'm on episode 2... and hoping this show hooks me, because the Pilot didn't. And I have 6 Seasons to catch up on before January (assuming they get on schedule with production). It's interesting, a bold concept, but I need the story to grab me. I'm betting it will, just gotta give it a little time. Anyone want to confirm or deny... prepare me for lagging seasons and crappy storylines?

Jenna Fischer: Music Video Star

2007-08-17T16:01:00.000-05:00

Jenna in the Wisely video,
"Through Any Window."

House Keeping with Pilots

2007-08-13T03:56:00.001-05:00

Hello all. You'll be glad to know I'm on the brink of entering the world of 24. Netflix is sending me the last available Entourage disk tomorrow - and until the new season is out on DVD, I must move forward! In the meantime, I'm doing a bit of upkeep in preparation for the Fall Season. At right, I've organized the links to various show and spoiler/pop culture sites. If there's a great website you know of, and it's missing from the list - please let me know. I'm always looking for good resources on my favorite shows and your help is much appreciated. You'll have to forgive me, I couldn't take the Veronica Mars link down... mainly because it should still be an active show. My own tiny protest.

In other news, I saw the Reaper pilot tonight. Loved it! Very pleasantly surprised. I mean, I'd heard the buzz, but let's face it, The CW is not exactly a hot bed of all things great in TV Land - especially with the loss of the Gilmores and Veronica - so I was a bit unsure, but willing to try it out. And I'm so glad I did. Bret Harrison's, Sam, is lovably goofy and endearing (following the winning, Seth Cohen/Jim Halpert trend, now being employed by many shows, including NBC's, Chuck), but it wouldn't be anywhere near as good a show without Tyler Labine. He had me laughing out loud. Smart idea. Interesting characters. Good payoff. That's enough to capture my interest...

I also watched the Pushing Daisies pilot for a second time. Words cannot detail how much I love this show. Seriously. I mean, it's either going to take off and be a smash hit, or fail miserably because people don't get it (I see no reason it should be the latter, unless people's brains have been fried by watching too many episodes of D listers dancing off for a sequined trophy). It's innovative, smart, funny and completely different from anything else on the tube. WATCH IT!! Tell everyone you know. Screw the dance off!!

P.S. Please go read the most recent Creed Thoughts. I was laughing so hard I couldn't speak... tears, people. Tears of joy and mirth.

PREMIERE DATES

2007-08-04T19:38:00.001-05:00

FALL PREMIERE DATES

We've entered August, our favorite TV cast and crew members are returning to work, and I think it's safe to list premiere dates... just to psych ourselves up a little. Poor TIVO, he's gonna be working over time, along with his cable DVR buddy, this year. Behold the regulars, *the newbies, and the one reality show I've decided to give a chance... just out of morbid, former teacher, curiosity.

Wednesday, September 19
9/8c - *Kid Nation, CBS
9/8c - *Gossip Girl, CW

Monday, September 24
8/7c - *Chuck, NBC
8/7c - How I Met Your Mother, CBS
9/8c - Heroes, NBC

Tuesday, September 25
9/8c - House, Fox
9/8c - *Reaper, CW

Wednesday, September 26
9/8c - *Private Practice, ABC

Thursday, September 27
9/8c - Grey's Anatomy, ABC
9/8c - The Office, NBC

Sunday, September 30
10/9c - Brothers and Sisters, ABC

Wednesday, October 3
8/7c - *Pushing Daisies, ABC

Friday, October 5
9/8c - Friday Night Lights, NBC

Becoming...

2007-08-03T23:29:00.000-05:00

While my husband was out playing Hacky Sack with Kat Von D's husband at Warped Tour, I went and saw Becoming Jane. And I seriously think I got the better end of the deal.

I'm an admitted Jane "nerd" and would watch, read or listen, to just about anything remotely related to her life and work. Last summer I got to visit her house in Chawton and spent hours loitering and walking in the garden, sitting on the benches to do a little writing of my own... so this movie... yeah, I've been waiting on it for a while, following the IMDB profile since it was still a teeny-tiny idea in pre-production.

Worth it? To me. Yes. Absolutely. I knew of her history with Tom Lefroy from my studies in college and etc., but I'm gonna spend a little more time researching tonight, see if I can figure out how much of the movie was factual and how much was... "creative embellishment" (I would imagine quite a good deal, as we have not heard more of him) on a fantastic life and story.

Final verdict? Like romance and all those other things women are suckers for? Like Jane? You'll love the movie.

For more on all things Jane, visit Austen Blog.

Joining the Entourage

2007-08-01T16:40:00.001-05:00

I'm in the midst of my Entourage catch-up. Season 2, Disc 3 should be arriving on my doorstep tomorrow and I'll continue my faithful review until I'm up on Season 4 (that may take some time, I know) - no matter how wacky their schedule is. My thoughts at the moment are a bit... scrambled... because I get it. I see, I understand, why people love this show - especially the Hollywood crowd.

Don't get me wrong. It's fabulously done, well written, funny, satirical - and it has The Piv. All things that put it on top. But if I have to listen to one more montage about weed and how many girls they've all slept with (described, sometimes, in the most derogatory ways), I might go a little crazy. Just momentarily. I've heard and seen plenty of filthy language and unnecessary sex and violence, but I think the onslaught of 5 episodes at a time is getting to me. Maybe I should start breaking it up...

Still, it is a clever show, not afraid to show the good and bad of this town, and I applaud that for sure. They're great with locations and I find myself amazed at some of the places and people they've gotten access to. So yeah, all around, I like it. I just need a little time to breathe between episodes.

Imagine, without Melissa Joan Hart and Drive Me Crazy, Vinnie Chase might not exist as we know him...

DVD Update.

2007-07-22T03:32:00.000-05:00

How I Met Your Mother, Season 2 - October 2
Gilmore Girls, Season 7 - November 13

Random comment: I watched The Starter Wife today while continuing to unpack and organize my apartment. Good stuff. Entertaining, if a little cheesy at times. I liked it. And I get why Debra was nominated for the Emmy.

I think I'm part of the Nerd Herd.

2007-07-20T18:25:00.000-05:00

So, I think I love Chuck.

I hadn't really heard much about the show... something from Kristin or Korbi at E! about how funny he was at the TCA's, but before that... not much. Maybe I wasn't paying attention.

Today I saw the Pilot.

And it's funny. Like, actually funny. You have to suspend your disbelief for a little bit (The $11/hour computer geek opens an email and downloads all the US/World Security secrets into his brain via a parade of images - think the creepy room from LOST on speed, with less use of the word Jacob.) but it's worth it. Zachary Levi carries the show well for a newcomer. He's got that effortless, Jim Halpert-esque charm... slightly-dorky-but-irrestible-for-some-reason, quality. (That's a high compliment from me, ok? You're talking to the girl who loved Seth Cohen.) There's Sarah Lancaster (Everwood, What About Brian) as Chuck's sister, and newbies Yvonne Strzechowski and Joshua Gomez as the mysterious CIA agent and quirky best friend.

Chuck is full of... promise. Just like Ryan Howard. I have no idea how the rest of the TV audience will react - who can predict these things? - but I give it a hefty, "Go for it!"

Premieres at 8 p.m., September 24 on NBC

EMMYS!!

2007-07-19T12:04:00.000-05:00

2007 EMMY NOMINEES

The Office:
Comedy Series
Lead Actor, Steve Carrell
Supporting Actor, Rainn Wilson
Supporting Actress, Jenna Fischer
Directing for a Comedy Series
Writing for a Comedy Series: Gay Witch Hunt and The Negotiation

LOST:
Supporting Actor, Terry O'Quinn
Supporting Actor, Michael Emerson
Directing for a Drama Series
Writing for a Drama Series: Through the Looking Glass

House:
Drama Series
Lead Actor, Hugh Laurie

Heroes:
Drama Series
Supporting Actor, Masi Oka
Directing for a Drama Series

Brothers and Sisters:
Lead Actress, Sally Field
Supporting Actress, Rachel Griffiths

Grey's Anatomy:
Drama Series
Supporting Actor, T.R. Knight
Supporting Actress, Katherine Heigl
Supporting Actress, Chandra Wilson
Supporting Actress, Sandra Oh

How I Met Your Mother:
Supporting Actor, Neil Patrick Harris

Studio 60:
Directing for a Drama Series

Other future "Proof" shows also nominated in various categories: Entourage, Scrubs and 24.

Congrats to ALL the shows for these, and their other nominations in art direction, casting, editing, sound mixing, sound editing, music direction, cinematography, make-up, stunts, and guest stars!!

Proof's 2007 Fall Schedule

2007-07-17T16:46:00.001-05:00

FALL 2007

I know, I know. The 2007-2008 Television Season doesn't officially begin until mid-late September, but most shows go back into production in a week or so - and some are already there. I figure, if they're back at work, it's never too early for me to prepare. So, if you're planning to follow along this year, here's what you can expect from me (so far).

SUNDAY

10 p.m., Brothers and Sisters, ABC

MONDAY

8 p.m., How I Met Your Mother, CBS

9 p.m., Heroes, NBC and 24, FOX (January)

10 p.m., October Road, ABC (Mid-Season)

I'm giving it a second chance to get better!

TUESDAY

9 p.m., House, FOX

WEDNESDAY

8 p.m., Pushing Daisies, ABC

Saw the Pilot and loved it.

9 p.m., Private Practice, ABC and Gossip Girl, CW

The latter is a guilty pleasure, for sure. Screw that, they're both guilty pleasures and the first one has to prove itself.

8 p.m., LOST, ABC (February)

THURSDAY

9 p.m., The Office, NBC

Don't forget, the first four episodes are an hour long!

9 p.m ., Grey's Anatomy, ABC

I'm giving it a second chance to get better!

MIDSEASON/UNSCHEDULED/STILL INVESTIGATING

(But Likely Will Give It A Shot)

Miss Guided, ABC

The Rules for Starting Over, FOX

Reaper, CW

PENDING

(or, Will Catch Up On At Later Date)

Entourage, HBO

Their new season is ongoing, and I'm waaaay behind.

The Return of Jezebel James, FOX

I love ASP, but it comes on Wednesdays at 8:30, which means I probably won't follow it religiously.

Scrubs, NBC

Final season, so I must watch at some point, but I'd probably need to watch last season first.

WOULDN'T TOUCH WITH A 10-FOOT POLE

Cashmere Mafia, ABC

Dirty Sexy Money, ABC

Just trust me. The pilots were a tad scary, especially the former. DSM was tolerable, but I'm not arranging my night around it.

Such a long, long time...

2007-07-13T14:32:00.001-05:00

Wow. I truly didn't mean to be out of pocket as long as I have been... but sometimes life gets in the way, just a little bit! Moving to California, starting school, trying to find a place to live - it's been insane! But it's beginning to settle in, thank goodness!!!

Of course, we don't really care what I've been doing. We care about TV. So, let's get to what I know at the moment.

Upcoming TV/DVD release dates:

August 21 - HOUSE, S3
August 28 - HEROES, S1
September 4 - THE OFFICE, S3
September 11 - GREY'S ANATOMY, S3
September 25 - BROTHER'S and SISTERS, S1
October 23 - VERONICA MARS, S3
December 11 - LOST, S3
---
GILMORE GIRLS, S7 - ??
HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER, S2 - ??
24, S6 - ?

Hope you're still out there, somewhere.

My own little hiatus.

2007-06-21T23:52:00.000-05:00

If a week can be considered such a thing. It is summer, you know... and therefore, not much is on my TV radar at the moment, especially considering the move and etc. STILL. I finished (stayed up until 4 a.m. to watch) season 2 of HOUSE and am very eagerly (read: impatiently) awaiting the season 3 DVDs - of that and several other shows. There's just something about that Hugh Laurie that makes him a teensy bit irresistible. Obsessive. That's me.

Things I've heard about recently:
1. Heroes is already back in production. Good grief.
2. David Anders has been cast on Heroes (hello, love him!)
3. Fandomicity, which I'll assume everyone has seen by now, but if not, there are tons of YouTube links floating around - including the one in the post below this one. Check it out if you like The Office. There's just no excuse not to.
4. Some of the Heroes cast is not returning.
5. Why is this all about Heroes?

Speaking of The Office. Today was my last day of work at the design firm. My boss and a coworker took me out to lunch and gave me a little going away gift: a DWIGHT BOBBLEHEAD. So excited! He will find an immediate place of prominence on my desk - once it's been unpacked. Isn't he cute? And I hear there are bobbleheads of other cast members coming soon!!! They're gonna suck us all in. Every single one of us.

I'm ending this pointless, rambling post now, before it's too late. I promise a return to some sort of normalcy once I'm resettled on the West Coast.

You might like The Office if...

2007-06-13T17:07:00.000-05:00

If you're a fan of The Office and keep up with Office Tally - or various other sites - you know about the documentary seat18b has been working on for her film class. Perhaps you've seen some of her other videos like Just Schrute It, It's Gettin' Hot in Here: Scranton Style, The Office Heroes or, my personal favorite, An Office Christmas. Everybody loves her work, including the cast and crew of The Office, who have pushed to get some of her stuff put on the DVDs!! Don't know about you, but that's pretty frakin' cool.

Anywhooo... the documentary. She gathered footage from 25 different MySpacers (including Bob Vance, Vance Refrigeration) who filmed themselves at home, at work, etc. talking about their love of all things Office. It's called FANDOMICITY and it's finally finished - totally awesome and very... Office. And I don't say that just because my husband and I are in it. What? Did I not mention that part before? I'm not kidding. We really are... but nevermind us, because there's too many other people in there spreading the funny, fan love. (Look out for a tiny Granger cameo.)

Fandomicity Preview

Want to see it all?
The footage is about 50 minutes long and divided up into 6 parts.
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6

Kudos to seat18b. The girl has talent... and got an A on her project!

*****

And now we resume the "great HOUSE blitz of 2007."

Everybody lies.

2007-06-12T22:20:00.000-05:00

Except all those people who told me - continuously - how great House was. They weren't lying.

I appreciate that.

I finished Season 1 about an hour ago, watched the special features (Why don't the producers or whoever puts the DVD materials together ALWAYS include bloopers? It should be a requirement.) and now find myself at a bit of a loss, because Netflix doesn't deliver the first two discs of Season 2 until tomorrow.

I'm passing the time searching for pictures to use in future blog posts. Yeah, like I have nothing else to do before next Sunday...

My mom called earlier and started talking about an "administrators retreat" she's supposed to go to tomorrow for work. It's on a party barge at the local reservoir. My first thought was, of course, Booze Cruise. I tried to explain it to her, but I don't think she appreciated the nuances of Michael Scott and how he's obviously impacted the local team building industry. Heh.

I'm a little bit in love with Gregory House.

2007-06-06T23:42:00.001-05:00

Why didn't anyone tell me how FABULOUS this show is?! Okay... so, they did, but still - I'm impressed, if not slightly infatuated. And yeah, I'm only on episode 3 of Season 1, but does that really matter when it comes to love? Sure, the inevitable pain and disappointment will eventually hit, making me want to throw things at the screen. House or Chase or Cameron will piss me off and I'll gnash my teeth in anguish, but through it all... I'll still love them. Because this is one of those shows. You know what I mean.

Hugh Laurie is a riot. LOVE him. It's like I feel his British smarminess radiating from behind the American accent. I'm telling you... people love a sarcastic, smart ass. There's no denying it. No helping or changing it. It's like Veronica Mars said, "Every school has it's obligatory psychotic jackass..." And as she said it, you knew she was totally gonna want him.

I may be new to the show, but as a TV lover, I've seen various HOUSE rumors and plot points as I scoured for info on other shows... so I know a few things. Not many, but a few. Like Chase and Cameron - which I think I'm going to be completely behind, 100%. (Who doesn't want a man with a sexy accent with a face to match?) I know things here and there about Sela Ward. I've even heard tidbits of the most recent season finale - which makes me a little nervous... so I can't wait to follow the story as it goes.

That said... what are some good HOUSE websites? I need to bulk up on my new obsession.

California Dreamin' and all that other stuff...

2007-06-02T01:56:00.001-05:00

It's official. The summer slump has begun. It's slightly (read: completely and utterly) depressing, and it's not like I don't have things I could watch. There's an episode of Studio 60 (with a little Jenna Fischer sprinkled in) and that new show... Traveler (is that the right name?), which I taped purely out of curiosity, on the TIVO. But I haven't gotten around to either. Anyone have an opinion? I need the motivation that comes with my regularly scheduled programming. As it is at the moment, I've got lots of "other," non-TV related (gasp) things going on.

1. I'm moving to California in three weeks. Yeah. I found this out Wednesday. Very excited, don't get me wrong, it's just all sort of happening at once. Quickly. (That's what she said.)

2. In the three weeks between now and the move, aside from life and work, I have a week long beach trip (starting Sunday), a Bachelorette Party to host and the task of finding a place to live. Easy, right? I need to be sedated or something.

3. I feel like Rory in the final episode of Gilmore Girls. I thought I had a month to ride roller coasters...

All that "life" stuff aside, I'm not shirking my duties. Netflix delivered the first two discs of House to my house (hahaha) yesterday, and I'm planning to start catching up at the beach... so if you're already a fan of House, or you really, really want to be, get ready!

And just to make this even more random... I saw Knocked Up tonight. Hilarious movie. Actually pretty smart... not uber generic or campy. It's consistently funny, which I appreciate, and of course some things were over the top (I could have done without all the body parts and neverending F-bombs), but the emotions weren't processed. It felt very... real. My only issue? I wanted (and really expected) to see a License to Wed trailer. *pouts* It was like being shot down with no Harry Potter at Pirates last week.

Enough. It's 2:15 a.m. Time to fall asleep watching Pride and Prejudice. Oops! I'm sorry. Is that picture not of Colin Firth? I really thought it was. I meant for it to be... dang it. I guess I'll just have to leave this one...

Accio earlier relase date!

2007-05-30T08:08:00.001-05:00

It appears the release date for Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix has been moved up two days, to July 11.

Do you hear it? The sound of impatient Harry Potter fans all over the States, rejoicing and donning their cloaks a couple of days early. Not that I'd ever do that...

Okay, maybe for Halloween.

Of course, for me, it means I have to get on the ball as I'm rereading OotP at present. Progress was made during my trip to St. Louis a few weeks ago, but I kinda, sorta... haven't picked it up since then. Don't worry, though, I'm on it during my beach trip next week.

Seriously, I'm just a wee bit excited (read: will buy tickets early to be there in line opening night, no exceptions) and cannot wait for the rebellion to begin!!

Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End

2007-05-29T18:53:00.001-05:00

I broke my own pirate code by the fact that I just got around to seeing this movie last night. I'm all about opening night for movies high on my list - as this was - and so it hurt a little to have to put it off. Still, I promised I'd see it with a friend who was in town from Baltimore... then she had to cancel. So I woke up hubby (who'd been driving all night and only had about 3 hours of sleep) and made him go with me.

Was I entertained? Yes, thoroughly. I mean, that's the whole point of these movies, in my opinion. I can't get all deep and philosophical about a movie based on a theme park ride, but I can enjoy my almost 3 hours of Orlando and Johnny (did I say that out loud... again?) - I mean, humor and action - without the least bit of guilt.

We both loved it, but still, when we left, we were a little... confused. Or something. I came home to check it out and discovered there's a HUGE debate going down on all the message boards, etc. And when I say huge debate, I mean nasty, with name calling and stuff. Seriously, these people need to simmer down. A LOT.

So... without offering my opinion (which I'm not so sure of just yet), I ask you for yours!

LOOK OUT! SPOILERS AHOY!

My confusion was over the last scene, of course. Was Will returning for his one day or was he "alive" again? I recall something about a green flash of light signaling the return of someone from the dead - we got one when Jack came back from The Locker. So, in the end, there was a green flash and hottie, I mean, Will, on the horizon. But I scratched my head a bit because I remember a green flash when he left on the Dutchman after his night on the beach with Elizabeth. What did that one mean?

It would seem the two writers divulged on their website forums at Wordplayer, that a scene was cut, wherein it's explained that if Elizabeth is faithful to Will for 10 years, his curse as Captain of the Dutchman is lifted, no longer binding him there for eternity. That said, the scene was absent from the film and I saw no real allusion to the idea of anything else besides Will being bound to 10 years at sea and one ashore - forever. The Dutchman must have a captain... and all that jazz.

I keep finding essay long posts (which are very thought out and obviously written by intelligent people) with words like metaphysical and archetypal and antihero and Hercules and Persephone and I was an English major, so I get all that stuff, but I feel a little overwhelmed because I sat there laughing when the little pirate shot off the gun and got blown into a hole.

Still, some people are NOT happy about Will and Elizabeth being left in such a state (it is pretty bittersweet, I must say) and others are not pleased with the writers for having given him an "out" from the duty Calypso created. From my end, I understand the romanticized ideal of the ancient myth, etc. but yeah, I totally get wanting to see him in that gray bandana more than once every 10 years.

Let's say I ride the fence on this one.

Studio 60: 1x17

2007-05-27T16:03:00.001-05:00

Studio 60
1x17
The Disaster Show

Issues and all, I'm a fan of this show. Maybe it's my fascination with the way TV is run, how it gets done and put on the air, that keeps me coming back. It would seem I'm in the minority as there are only 5 more episodes to air, but that's okay. I'll take 'em - if for no other reason than it means I'm seeing something new on TV this summer.

Stories like Simon's double Hawaii dates and the never ending saga of Matt and Harriet, can be rather annoying, but the show consistently amuses and holds my attention, so I follow along.

I really like Tom and Lucy (maybe because she's the British Pam), and I LOVE Jordan - not so sure about her and Danny. It's possible, however, that Timothy Busfield's character, Cal, is my favorite. He cracks me up.

I don't have tons to say about the episode. Funny, in a disastrous way that usually makes me cringe. And Cal's comments to Christine at the end, about having the time of her life and being so blessed to do what she does, were fantastic. I like that they worked some heart in at the end.

It won't change my world when it goes off the air, but I will miss it...

LOST: 3x22

2007-05-23T23:24:00.000-05:00

LOST
3x22
Through the Looking Glass
(A Jack Episode)
SEASON 3 FINALE

*@$!

Wow. I mean, I knew... but... wow.

HOLY @%!* Moments...
1. Sayid snapping dude's neck with his legs.
2. Hurley running a man down with the van.
3. Sawyer killing YET another person.
4. Danielle and Alex, face to face.
5. Um... Kate and Jack. Off the island?!

That's right... THEY GOT OFF THE ISLAND!
Well, at least Jack and Kate did. I loved my happy, emotional, stirring, LOST music, all of the characters hugging when Jack made the call... only to see him broken, crying, and wishing to go back a few minutes later. We weren't given any clues, but I think it's been a while since their rescue. Sarah wasn't shocked to see Jack in the hospital and even said, "Are you drinking again," like they'd been through it all before. Kate's behavior, Jack's words... all lend me toward this conclusion - but what do I know? I'm just guessing. So why are they not happy to be home? Even though Kate doesn't look "terrible," she doesn't look happy. I'm thinking she's running from the pain, while Jack's taking it all on... pretty characteristic of them both.

As for Jack and Kate...
First off... he told her he loves her! Totally unselfishly and knowing she's been hookin' it up with someone else. That's my Jack. All the girls at our finale party were sort of melty from that one. ;) And can we talk about home free Kate not being a fugitive?? What's the deal with that? And having "him" wondering where she is. I'm sure everyone's mind immediately went to Sawyer - I think that's what they want us to think - which leads me to think it's someone else entirely. All that aside, it's obvious, even with all the dark, twisty angst, Jack and Kate still have some sort of connection. When he pulled her to him and said, "I'm sick of lying. We made a mistake," I saw the old Kate/Jack chemistry. She still cares, but she can't deal with him as he is now and whatever happened between them... which tells me, it's affecting her too. My husband said, "I'd think she'd be more concerned about him." As do I, which adds to my theory that it's been a while since they got off the island. Should be interesting to follow...

Let's talk about the Foxy...
See, now I told you up front, I'm a Jack Shepard fan. Why? Hmmm... let's see... did you watch with me tonight? Matthew Fox was AMAZING. I mean, I seriously hate seeing Dr. Giggles on a downward spiral, but he gave us some massive range. When he finally beat the hell out Henry, we were all cheering. And the tears and the caring and the leading... he was so strong as "island Jack," so the contrast of present Jack was a bit daunting to process. And I think that's why he needs to go back. Whatever happened during rescue, whatever secrets Jack and Kate are keeping... they have to be pretty big and pretty destructive to put Jack in the place he is - which, by the way, is completely lost!!! (seriously, he's still lost, even though he's home, I think I may have hit on something here) - back on dry land.

Charlie's big send-off...
Never my favorite character, but I was totally feeling the Charlie love tonight. He stepped it up and took it like a man. I mean, come on... shutting Desmond out of the hatch to save him (thank goodness!) and still having the forethought to pass along a VERY important nugget of info from Penny. We had lots of time to say goodbye, and I even hoped he'd pull through in the end, but when it came down to it, Charlie's character departed in an incredible tribute to the whole spirit of the show - these characters, these people, finding peace and overcoming their past. Seriously, though, the final shot of him in the water, crossing himself... wow.

So, what do we know?
1. Jack made contact with Naomi's boat and it's headed toward the island.

2. Penny knows Desmond's alive, so we can bet she'll have men on it ASAP.

3. Desmond knows Naomi's boat is NOT Penny's, so he can warn Jack and the LOSTies. Of course, since we know where Jack ended up, something obviously went down that Desmond couldn't stop.

4. Kate and Jack made it off the island.

5. Something happened between Jack's radio call and his post-island meeting with Kate - and it's shaken them to the core.

Things we don't know... (besides a lot)
1. How the HELL is Walt on the island?

2. What happened when Naomi's boat arrived?

3. Who was in the coffin?

4. Who made it off the island besides Jack and Kate?

5. Why does Jack want to go back?

Season 4?
There are so many directions they could go from here. Do they remain in the present and have flashbacks occur on the island, showing us how they were rescued and what happened in the process? Or are we still on the island in its time period, watching the future (I don't think it's this one, for the record)? Are the next three years about Jack, Kate and whoever else, getting back to the island, finding their redemption? Come the end, in May 2010, after everything I've read, I highly doubt our creators will leave us dissatisfied with the state of our heroes. It would be pretty upsetting to leave Jack as he is now, the fate of everyone else in the air. No, I think this show will end with an air of hope (the question is, how do they get there)... but good grief... who the hell could predict?

All I know is this:
1. LOST is amazing.
2. 8 months is unacceptable!!!

Enemy, thy name is CW.

2007-05-22T21:41:00.000-05:00

Tonight, the CW aired two of the best Veronica Mars episodes of the season... and now we're left in a lurch. Rob Thomas provided set-up for a BRILLIANT season 4 and The CW (geniuses that they are) chose "quality" programming like The Pussycat Dolls and Farmer Wants a Wife, over an hour of intelligent, strong-minded, quality programming. I can see how the world might not function if we don't meet our yearly reality TV quota and continue warping the minds of America's youth. I know if I were a mom, I'd rather my kid watch a show with a bunch of slutty girls in no clothes parade and exploit themselves across the screen, than see a smart, flawed, real character deal with issues in an interesting, creative, non-mind numbing way.

It's ridiculous. It's insanity... it's completely unbelievable and ludicrous. So excuse me while I vent a little frustration, but CW... I sort of hate you right now.

OH! And by the way... if you're going to cancel a show, don't give its audience false hope by calling it a Season Finale on your website AND during programming.

*deep breaths*

The CW has until June 15 for a final decision... let's hope they prove me wrong.

Veronica Mars: 3x19, 3x20

2007-05-22T21:29:00.000-05:00

Veronica Mars

3x19
Weevils Wobble, But They Don't Go Down
&
3x20
The Bitch is Back
SERIES/SEASON 3 FINALE

Genius.

Kristen Bell is a TV goddess and the network shutting her down is really pissing me off. I loved every second "the bitch" was back and found myself thinking what an amazing season 4 we could have. Not a season set four years in the future, but one that picked up where we left off tonight. Jake Kane, people! Jake Kane was back and Veronica was in charge!

Instead, she walked off in the rain... completely unhappy, with nothing resolved.

I seriously think network television needs to rethink its renewal policy. Upfronts should be earlier in the season, giving creators, cast, crew, etc., time to round things out if they discover they won't be returning... if for no other reason than the fans and the people watching, waiting, following the action, getting attached to characters and storyline.

And all I had were questions...
What happened when the list was exposed? Do we see Weevil return to his old ways? Who won the sheriff's race? What happened to Keith? How was Veronica's internship? What about The Castle? The threats from its members?

Nevermind the completely shallow Logan and Veronica lover in me. Yeah, we got a smile and a glimmer of hope at the end... but how do they get back to something? And we knew months ago that Piz had a new show, so how did he exit Neptune? What about Mac? What about Wallace? What about Dick? How do you stop an exploding man... wait, wrong show. Seriously, HOW am I supposed to be okay with this?

Things that stood out tonight:

1. Dick's multiple personalities. From Dickster to crying in 60 seconds. I so love him for it. And seriously, he quoted The Office. This is one of life's great tragedies: we're canceling shows that quote The Office...? And how did I not see that Dick and Michael Scott are one in the same person?

2. Logan, Piz and Veronica at the beach. Awkwaaaard.

3. Weevil!

4. Logan channeling a little Aaron Echolls. At least he apologized to Piz.

5. Veronica. The Bitch was back and taking it on. Intelligent, cool and funny to boot.

I could say more, but it'll just depress me.

I need quotes to make me happy.

Veronica: She has the right to remain famished. (cracks up at herself)

Dick: Who you talkin’ to?
Logan: Parker.
Dick: Park ‘er? I don’t even know her.

Dick: This new wetsuit’s like a cheap motel. No ballroom.

Mac: I feel so bad for Wallace. He needs more thrust. (Dick laughs)
Logan: Don’t say it.
Dick: That’s what she said.

Veronica: I guess you’re all asking yourself why I called this meeting. What? That’s comedy gold.

Piz: I guess he was pissed about that thing that happened at the beach. I think he still likes you.

Veronica: Dick, get out here.
Dick: (in a small voice) What’s up, V?
Veronica: If you had to bet?
Dick: Look, from a guy’s perspective, the video just made your stock go up. You looked great. Enthusiasm? Always a plus.
Veronica: It’s like, you’re this giant, jackass piñata, begging for someone to be the candy out of you.

Veronica: After all these years, do you not instinctively fear me? Maybe you should write yourself a note.

Veronica: You are going to be sooo popular in hell.

Heroes, Chapter 23

2007-05-21T18:10:00.001-05:00

Heroes
Chapter 23
How to Stop an Exploding Man
SEASON 1 FINALE

Okaaaaaaaaaaay.

I'm a little confused. But let's cut to the chase before we ponder the end.

First off, HELLO! We found out Mr. Bennett's name! That was rather exciting... Noah. I like it.

So, in general, I enjoyed the episode, but I wasn't exactly on the edge of my seat. Don't get me wrong, the idea of Nathan flying off with Peter hadn't come to mind (I'm not sure why... better yet, I'm not sure why Peter couldn't fly off on his own) and was a great twist on it all, but I still wasn't exactly... satisfied by the episode. I loved seeing all the heroes together in New York, and that Nikki got a good hit in on Sylar, but I think I'd put too much stock in this ending I kept hearing about... maybe someone else will have better insight than me... maybe I will if I think on it longer. This is just initial reaction...

That said, I do appreciate the book being closed, as it were, on Chapter 1. No wondering if the bomb went off or who it was going to be, but we were still left with plenty of questions (it wouldn't be a finale if we weren't), so I'll start there:

1. Where is Peter?

2. Is Nathan alive?

3. What about Parkman? (I could have told him Sylar was gonna shoot those things back at him!)

4. Where did sluggy Sylar go and HOW is he still alive?

5. If this part of the story is over, how do we keep all the Heroes crossing paths?

6. Does Mohinder (I've never discussed what a cutie he is) keep Molly or do DL and Nikki?

7. Why is Hiro in 1641 and why am I supposed to think that's so cool?

Honestly, the "first three minutes of season 2" the cast kept touting at Upfronts... sort of annoyed me. I mean, I love Hiro, but can't he just pop back out of there? And sorry, but I was a little more concerned about the fate of Peter (and his lovely, lovely hair - sorry, it's fabulous) and Nathan.

Still, I trust the show. It had a banner first season and got stronger as it went. I don't understand the impact of this "Generations" storyline and how it will impact the heroes as they are, but I suppose that's the point of a season - to expound on such things.

See, this is where the idea of patience comes in, and I happen to not have any.

Brothers and Sisters: 1x23

2007-05-21T02:19:00.001-05:00

Brothers and Sisters
1x23
Matriarchy
SEASON 1 FINALE

I've said it once (like a broken record, I know), I'll say it again - I LOVE the Walkers! The final scene, with them all jumping into the swimming pool, was my absolute favorite. Seriously, if you need a fake family, let the Walkers adopt you!

Justin tried to wrench my little heart out, saying goodbye and not saying goodbye to everyone. The scene between him and Nora was lovely... and proved why Sally Field is Sally Field. I was glad he and Rebecca had a moment together and that she came clean to him. She actually seems genuinely sorry and more than a little damaged by her time in Chicago. Of course, we're left waiting for her to tell Sarah, but there's next season for that. I did want to kick Justin a little for sneaking out early, but the scene with Kitty and Nora at the airport was worth it. Now, I'm left wondering... how is he in the show next year?

Random, small notation: They've got to be setting Julia up for a bigger storyline next year. Depression or something from the looks of last night's episode.

And Robert's family is crazier than the Walkers, in a totally annoying way. Walker, 'jumping in the pool with all your clothes on' crazy, I can handle. McAlister crazy, I'm not so sure about. Good grief, I'd have gone ballistic when the tent fell! Plus, a family like that has to have some skeletons in its closet... especially when it comes to their golden boy. Should be very interesting to find out what they are.

Kevin kills me. And anytime he wants to take me to Wicked (with Dave), I'm ready. He's right, you can't NOT love that musical. Plus his gay standoff in the place Nora was renting, cracked me up. Probably because I see my boss say stuff like that ALL the time. And can't you see him walking around with a pitcher of margaritas... I love him completely for his superiority complex.

No resolution for Sarah and Joe. Understandable as there's a lot of ground to cover.

What else? Oh, oh! I loved the fight between Kitty and Nora over the party and moving out, etc. Rebecca's comment was priceless, "Wow. That was amazing." So true...

And I don't know what to think about this development for Saul, since he seemed to have the hots for Holly... maybe he's bisexual like Michael Scott's suit.

Guess we'll find out in SEASON 2!

Grey's Anatomy: 3x24

2007-05-18T19:10:00.000-05:00

Grey's Anatomy
3x24
Burning Down the House
SEASON 3 FINALE

It comes in waves - disappointment.

You sit down on Thursday nights, the little red light on your TIVO promising another episode of a show you like enough to spend an hour of your evening involved in its fictional world. You get attached. You talk about the characters and the story and you think, "Wow, it's been a while since TV was smart... this show is upping the bar."

And then it stops. Grey's hasn't felt right to me since it came back from hiatus after Christmas... and I'd stop complaining and nix the side comments if I thought I was the only one. But I don't. Actually, I know I'm not. What I don't know, is where to begin dissecting my thoughts (and yes, it's sarcastic and I'm annoyed, so take my words with a grain of very frustrated salt)...

Meredith and Derek
Honestly, I don't understand the concept of constant upheaval. Shonda can rationalize this situation until she's blue in the face and I'll still maintain - there was no real period of happiness. No payoff. We, as an audience, watched this couple fight to be together for two seasons. Watched them hurt and cry and heal and still not be able to deny one another... then, before we've ever really seen them together, she's suddenly falling in the water and losing her mom and her fake mom and her dad and Derek doesn't know if he wants to be Chief or have Meredith and I'm sitting here thinking: "Um... what?" I'm sorry. I get that Meredith's damaged, but this is ridiculous. At this point, I could care less, and that's sad, because I think they're supposed to be that couple we always root for.

Burke and Christina
*sigh* Don't get me started on the cliche that was that entire marriage storyline. I think everyone could tell from a mile away that Burke was going to call off the wedding and "set her free," as it were. Sure, Sandra Oh's a great actress and the last scene was all a testament to her ability. I actually got that she was relieved and destroyed and completely unsure of what to do next... but on paper, I bet that scene read about as well as a Danielle Steele novel. And speaking of trashy romance novels and large amounts of romanticized CHEESE... can we talk about Burke's vows? Sorry, that may just be me. I'm NOT a romantic in that way. At all. I was totally goobed out.

George/Izzie/Callie
Huh? Callie wants a baby? Yeah, that will really be the glue to hold you and George together. NOT a good call. Bailey's not Chief Resident, Callie is? George failed the test? And really, I'm still sort of stunned that I'm supposed to believe Izzie and George are in love when they never so much as approached the topic before the slept together. I don't buy it...

The "race" for Chief
Such a cop out. Seriously...

Alex and Ava
I think everyone has mixed feelings here. I LOVE the idea of those two. I liked the Alex I saw with Ava, but again with the, "making a declaration, turning it down, ships passing in the night, I barely missed you as I ran back into the hospital," cliche.

Overall
Here's my issue. The show is getting preachy and theme-y and way too soap opera-esque. I get that it sort of was to begin with, but it was a much more quality version than it is right now and I'm KIND OF upset about that. Nevermind the lack of respect for marriage and the recycled storylines. And in relation to this episode specifically... is it possible we could have tied up at least ONE storyline without issue or questions?

And still...
I'll continue to watch, because I know shows go through slumps and pull themselves out, and Grey's deserves that I give it a fair chance. Things fluctuate, right? This time next year I could be singing a different tune...

Ross has the Answers.

2007-05-18T18:44:00.000-05:00

I love me some Ross the Intern, first and foremost, because he updates his blog daily. It gives me a few minutes of laughter and distraction, right when the day's gotten just a little too long. Today (or maybe it was yesterday), I found a new feature: Captain Answer. Wanna know Ross's favorite color? Wondering if he's a fan of refrigerating condiments? Pondering the meaning of life? Shoot him an email (or two or three or four) at captainanswer@hotmail.com and see if he lends insight to your query. You're sure to be rewarded if he does!

Feel Better, Jenna.

2007-05-18T18:28:00.001-05:00

I think everyone knows about Jenna's fall at the NBC Upfronts on Monday. From what I've heard at E!, she slipped on a marble staircase and fractured her back in a few places. OUCH! Not a fun way to start summer vacation, but I hear Angela and her buds from The Office kept her company until James got to New York, so I'm sure she's on her way to a speedy recovery! (And just in time for Jim and Pam's first date!)

Feel better, Jenna!

FOX "upfronted" by CW.

2007-05-18T09:20:00.001-05:00

Henceforth known as, The Network I No Longer Watch. I'm not boycotting or anything that drastic, but I don't watch Smallville or Supernatural, so there's nothing drawing me in... especially when you take all your quality programming and replace it with a reality show about a farmer... well, I gotta boogie.

Their schedule is confusing me at the moment. I'm gonna be caught up on 24 by September... but it's not on the fall schedule. Is it one of those that doesn't start 'til January? And if so, what's its usual time slot? I'll also be watching House and it appears he's on Tuesday... nice Gilmore/Veronica replacement. Lastly, I know Rashida Jones' new show, The Rules for Starting Over, got picked up, but I do NOT see it on the schedule. Can anyone clarify this for me? Fox, help me out!

It's a date.

2007-05-18T01:21:00.000-05:00

The Office
3x23: The Job
Quotes

Michael: I have got it made in the shade. I know this company. The other branch managers are total morons. (On phone) Hey, Pam, yeah. I forgot what day the interview was, and I drove to New York accidentally. Be, like, three hours late.

Kevin: What’s different about you? You look worse.
Meredith: He got a haircut. It’s sexy hot.
Jim: Ohhh...
Meredith: Turn around.
Jim: No thanks.
Meredith: Do it!
Andy: What’s up, Big Haircut? You are no longer Big Tuna. From henceforth, you shall be known as Big Haircut.

Jim: Karen suggested that I get a haircut. For the interview tomorrow. So that I could look presentable. And not, as she so lovingly puts it, homeless.

Pam: After I had my little outburst at the beach, Jim was really nice about it. He just basically said that, he missed my friendship, too, and I would always mean a lot to him, and I understand where he’s coming from. For the record, I am not embarrassed at all. It needed to be said, and I said it. And it only took me three years to summon the courage. So … (bows) thank you.

Michael: Please hand this letter of congratulations to Dwight K. Schrute.
Dwight: But that’s my name. (Reads letter) “Dwight, congratulations, a-wipe. Don’t screw the pooch.”

Pam: Um, about the beach.
Karen: It’s okay. We all say things without thinking.
Pam: Oh no, it’s not that. I’ve actually been thinking that for a long time. And I’m glad I said it. I just, I’m sorry if it made you feel weird.
Karen: Oh. Okay.

Kevin: So Jim, who do you think is hotter, Pam or Karen?
Jim: Yeah, I’m not going to talk about this now.
Kevin: Pam is taller.
Jim: You sure?
Kevin: Yes. She has bigger breasts, too.
Jim: Wow.
Kevin: But I think Karen has a prettier face.
Jim: Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm. What else?
Kevin: Well, I mean, Pam’s face is really pretty too. It’s a very tough call.
Jim: Really tough call.
Kevin: Yeah.
Jim: You know what? Why don’t you take the rest of the day, figure it out, and then come back, and tell me what you got.
Kevin: Will do.
Jim: All right.
Kevin: Yes

Kate: You know what? Don’t even worry about it. Everyone was so drunk, I bet no one even remembers what you said.
Creed: I remember. I blogged the whole thing.

Creed: www.creedthoughts.gov.www\creedthoughts. Check it out.

Ryan: Last year, Creed ask me how to set up a blog. Wanting to protect the world from being exposed to Creed’s brain, I opened up a Word document on his computer, and put an address at the top. I’ve read some of it. Even for the Internet, it’s … pretty shocking.

Dwight: Jim, Jim, Jim. Jim, Jim, Jim, Jim, Jim, Jim, Jim.
Jim: Oh, hey, Dwight.
Dwight: I’m going to be your new boss. It’s my greatest dream come true. Welcome to the Hotel Hell. Check-in time is now. Check-out time is never.
Jim: Does my room have cable?
Dwight: No. And the sheets are made of fire!
Jim: Can I change rooms?
Dwight: Sorry, we’re all booked up. Hell convention in town.
Jim: Can I have a late check-out?
Dwight: I’ll have to talk to the manager.
Jim: You’re not the manager? Even in your own fantasy?
Dwight: I’m the owner. The co-owner. With Satan.
Jim: Okay, just so I understand it. In your wildest fantasy, you are in hell. And you are co-running a bed and breakfast with the devil.
Dwight: Yeah, but I haven’t told you my salary yet.
Jim: Go.
Dwight: $80,000 a year.

Dwight: Once I’m officially regional manager, my first order of business will be to demote Jim Halpert. So I will need a new number two. My ideal choice? Jack Bauer. But he is unavailable. Fictional. And overqualified.

Pam: No, it’s fine. I’m sure it must have been weird for Jim when Roy and I were joking around. That one time.

Creed: I find it offensive. Au natural, baby. That’s how I like ‘em. Swing low, sweet chariots.

Pam: I’m happy for him. I hope he gets the job. I really just want him to be happy. And I know that sounds cliche, and I know saying it sounds cliche sounds cliche. Maybe I’m being cliche, I don’t care. ‘Cause I am what I am. (Thinks about it) That’s Popeye.

Andy: I am a great interviewee. Why? Because I have something no one else has. My brain. Which I use to my advantage, when advantageous.

Michael: Your advice was good, but Jan’s was bigger.

Pam: So you would be the regional manager, and the assistant regional manager, Andy is your number two, I would be the secret assistant regional manager.
Dwight: Mmm, let’s call it secret assistant to the regional manager.
Pam: Mm-hmm.
Dwight: Do you accept?
Pam: Absolutely I do.

Dwight: Don’t you want to earn Schrute bucks?
Stanley: No. In fact, I’ll give you a billion Stanley nickels if you never talk to me again.
Dwight: What’s the ratio of Stanley nickels to Schrute bucks?
Stanley: The same as the ratio of unicorns to leprechauns.

Karen: Wow. That was some serious, hardcore, self-destruction.

Jan: I could wear stretch pants and wait for you to come home at 5:15.

Pam: No, I don’t know what the future holds, but I’m optimistic. And I had fun goofing around with Dwight today. Jim and I are just too similar. Maybe one day I’ll find my own Karen. But, you, that is a, um, you know, not … a man. A man version. But uh, until then, I can hold my head up. I’m not gay.

Jim: So is the question how’d I get to be so awesome?

Jim: How are your feet?
Pam: Medium rare. Thanks.
Jim: The real reason that I went to Stamford was because I wanted to be … not here.
Pam: I know.
Jim: And even though I came back, I just feel like I’ve never really come back.
Pam: Well I wish you would.

Pam: I haven’t heard anything. But I bet Jim got the job. I mean, why wouldn’t he? He’s totally qualified, and smart, everyone loves him. And if he never comes back again, that’s okay. We’re friends. And I’m sure we’ll stay friends. We just … we never got the timing right, you know? I shot him down, and then he did the same to me, but you know what? It’s okay. I am totally fine. Everything is going to be totally …

Jim: Pam. (To camera) Sorry. Um, are you free for dinner tonight?
Pam: Yes.
Jim: All right. Then it’s a date.
Pam: (Smiling back to camera) I’m sorry, what was the question?

Kelly: Who was that?
Ryan: Nobody. You and I are done.
Kelly: What?!