Matt Zimmer (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
matt_zimmer) wrote2017-05-13 04:25 am
matt_zimmer) wrote2017-05-13 04:25 am
Doctor Who "Knock Knock" Review (Spoilers)
Also reviews for the latest episodes of Class, DC Super Hero Girls, Supergirl, The Flash, Arrow, Gotham, iZombie, Lucifer, Samurai Jack, Ben 10, Marvel's Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D., Marvel's Guardians Of The Galaxy, Once Upon A Time, The Simpsons, Bob's Burgers, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and Prison Break, the season finale of The Last Man On Earth, and the latest episodes of Making History, Fargo, Angie Tribeca, The Blacklist, and Blindspot.
Doctor Who "Knock Knock"
Time Lord does NOT sound like the name of a species. Good observation by Bill there. Also a good guess on the funny hats (although Twelve claims it's more about the collars).
Regeneration has been mentioned, which says that it's possible Twelve will discuss with Bill what it means before it happens.
Twelve is completely implausible as Bill's grandfather for two reasons. While the Doctor is right to be offended that he doesn't look old enough, that's actually the second least plausible thing. It's possible a woman like Bill had a white grandfather. But not THAT white.
The Landlord is SUCH a creepy scumbag.
Bill says she's "mostly" into girls, which says that even though she's a lesbian, she's also bicurious.
Twelve says he sat in for Quincy Jones. Am I silly for hoping it was Twelve himself who did that, instead of one of his younger, foxier incarnations?
The Doctor says not to be scared because it isn't helpful. It's true, but that observation isn't helpful either.
Whoa! Twelve gets an "Everybody lives!" Well, technically the bad guys died. But I shed no tears.
I am 100% certain Missy is on the other side of the door. Nardol is right. There are plenty of monsters on Earth. And I can see UNIT forcing the Doctor to stay on Earth and watch over the latest incarnation of The Master. She IS his fault, after all.
Pretty good. ***1/2.
Class "Co-Owner Of A Lonely Heart"
Last week was the first good episode of the show. This week is the first GREAT episode of the show.
April's mother's feet moving at the end as she and Ram jumped into another dimension was the best cliffhanger EVER! Super exciting and heart-pounding.
I love the Shadow King's make-up. It reminds me heavily of the demon Skip on Angel. I laughed upon the female Shadowkin asking if it was good for him, and him asking if it was all right to cuddle. Probably the most sexually subversive thing I've seen with two people made up like that since Farscape's D'Argo and Chiana.
I want to see Ms. Quill with free will. Whether she becomes a bad character, or chooses to remain a hero, she will be a more interesting character for it.
Charlie was gettin' it from all sides this episode. We see for the first time that he's less the heroic alien prince, and more like the slaveholding aristocrat. And it's weird that both interpretations fit him. I love his boyfriend constantly correcting him whenever he softens his language. TYRANTS are the only people who talk about killing as eliminating, and his boyfriend wants him to understand what company he is keeping when he is doing that.
It's took Torchwood three seasons to become watchable. It took this show four episodes. ****1/2.
DC Super Hero Girls "Wildside, Part One"
Is it just me or does Starfire not look like an alien at all? For all we know, she could just have a Snookie spray tan.
Except for the hair on fire. Is that from the comics? Because it's cool. ***.
Supergirl "City Of Lost Children"
The scene where Rhea picks up Lena's phone and says "Hello, Supergirl," is a great scene. Stipulated. And it's not remotely plausible. Lena doesn't see her screeching at the top of her lungs into the phone from across the room? And while I am very happy to finally learn what the story arc of the season is actually about, it is troubling it took until Episode 20 to get to that. Whatever else this season is, it is also meandering.
Rhea lying to Mon-El about his father shows she's a bad person. She ostensibly tells him as she's killing him that he betrayed her, and she is reclaiming her honor, but that's just jive. If she truly believed she was righteous, she'd tell Mon-El she put a knife in his father's heart because he deserved it. "And I hope they all burn in hell!" Rhea actually has no such convictions. She's a lousy mother and a lousier villain.
I like that the show actually said what was going on between Marcus and James was racial solidarity. Because if they didn't acknowledge the elephant in the room as to what was actually going on, I'd think the show was utterly gutless.
Oh, and James' speech in the climax was so cheesy, it could have been said by Captain Kirk.
This show has major problems. ***.
The Flash "Cause And Effect"
Why is Grant Gustin so legitimately funny when he's playing a total dope?
"Bart sounds kind of cool." I like Wally.
Savitar has a cooler suit than Flash does.
Frankly, I think Joe, Iris, and Wally are far more forgiving to the idea that Savitar is a version of Barry than they need to be. It seems to me it doesn't matter if it's an alternate future version. He still has all of Barry's memories up to this point. That makes him culpable in my mind. And that's my opinion of the day.
Savitar gave them their way out. "The more you time-travel, the less the rules apply to you." That means all of this predestination s*** is something that doesn't actually apply to this specific situation. There is a reality and way out there for Barry to win.
HR says "I've never met another person either." Why does that sound credible?
I love Julian whispering in court that Fire Monger is a lame name, and then Cisco leaning forward to assure him it was actually cool. Funny moment, because I think only Cisco realized how dumb is was to insult someone that dangerous in front of them.
I love the moment of Cisco trying to stir good memories in Killer Frost. When she says she never loved any of them at the end, I know she's the biggest liar in the Arrowverse.
Personally, I would have kept Barry with amnesia at least until the big day when Savitar killed Iris. Because that would have worked. It makes no sense that they didn't try that exact same plan again after that. It was a good one.
King Shark and Captain Cold next week. Can't wait. ****.
Arrow "Honor Thy Fathers"
Suffice it to say, that was unlike any other Arrow Episode 20 EVER. Usually things get worse and worse at this point, but we actually got a reprieve here. I can't tell if that's good, or an insane storytelling choice.
Flashbacks were good, and we got some hints about the beard, and learned the story behind the Deathstroke mask on the beach. Things are coming full circle.
Oliver seems genuinely surprised his father is a killer. My question is, why? His parents have always been terrible people, and they've never denied that fact. What would truly have shocked me is that if he WASN'T actually guilty.
Speaking of shocking, I fully expected Oliver himself to be fingered as the culprit. And even if Chase had faked the evidence to do that, that would have made more sense tactically than what he did. Robert's name being besmirched does absolutely nothing. And it's s*** like this which is why Superhero projects REALLY p*ss me off. And I mean REALLY. Thea isn't destined to become a monster because both of her parents are. If Thea decides to become a monster, that is simply because she chose to be. Superhero projects take the discredited, and frankly, dangerous, idea that criminality is genetic. And if someone's actions are decided by their genes, nobody is truly responsible for anything. Which is b.s.
I am sick and tired of seeing project after project about how Lex and Lena Luthor are destined to become supervillains, or Superman and Batman are fated to become to become saviors. Each of those characters is actually the way they are because they chose to be. Not only is the genetic destiny idea letting Luthor off the hook, but it's also saying that Batman and Superman's accomplishments are less impressive than they actually are. Which is in my mind a crazy storytelling decision. Robert could have been a secret serial killer, and that has nothing to do with Oliver and his actions. And I'm puzzled why not only Chase thinks that, but that on some level the writers are willing to make that argument too (even while ultimately landing on the correct side of the moral).
Speaking of Oliver's actions, I jumped back at Felicity saying Oliver is not a killer. That is SO freaking untrue, I cannot believe the writers had her say it. She doesn't appear to be lying, so it's like the writers are pretending that Oliver isn't something he definitely is. And hasn't that been what this entire season is about? Why would the writers not only have Felicity say that, but not even have Oliver correct her?
And if Oliver is not a killer, why do his people seem to be going for kill shots with their guns? I might have bought the idea that Oliver was using less lethal force than usual. BEFORE he let Rene and Dinah on the team. Now this is just infuriating. And Rene was straight up trying to kill the bad guy at the end. He admitted it. What is wrong with the writers? How can they compartmentalize these essential themes of the show so completely, and with no irony, or even reason behind them? Berlanti is REALLY bad at this.
Rene seems to think his daughter would be better off and happier without him. Here's an opinion: I don't think he's wrong. And it's not that his actions at the end of the episode changed my mind to that opinion. I've always thought that. And I think Quentin is putting too much of his own personal hang-ups into the matter. But if the show ultimately decides to show Quentin is right, I'll think a lot less of it. Because I think Rene was right about that all along.
I love the moment at the end where Oliver reveals Chase's father is ashamed of him. Chase has spent the episode (and frankly, the season) trying to prove to Oliver the motives behind his mission were bogus. And it turns out Chase is pursuing this vendetta on behalf of a father who was ashamed of him. Oliver is right about something about Robert: For all of his faults, he loved and believed in his children. And for this entire circus to have been started because Chase was unaware the same thing couldn't be said for his own dad is beyond pathetic.
Why did Chase meet William at the end of the last episode if it is not brought up (even in the recap) here? Something tells me next week or the week after is going to be tough for Oliver. Frankly, I half expected the crate to contain William's dead body. We'll see.
This was all right for what is was, and I'm sure comic book fans will not have the same problems with it I do, but I sort of reject the premise of the episode, the season, and comic books in general. People are responsible for their own actions. Period. **1/2.
Gotham "Heroes Rise: The Outsiders"
I think the show is for going for bad@$$ with Jim in the mask at the end, but instead it's just goofy as h*ll. How is it comic book TV shows and movies believe they can actually play a moment like that straight with no irony or self-awareness? There is a reason superhero projects get a bad rap with critics. They deserve it.
What I love about Selina's full-throated defense about Bruce to the clone, is that you can tell she didn't even realize how awesome Bruce was until the words escaped her mouth. Bruce would try to save everyone. And maybe this twerp is finally making her realize how unusual (and good) that is.
Drew Powell is one of those actors that you don't see on the show every week, but when you do, you immediately feel how weak the show is for him having been gone for awhile. He truly is the one irreplaceable non-kid actor left on the show.
How does Gordon survive his encounter with Ed? By telling him that killing him makes a riddle unsolvable. He said the exact right thing. Genies should fear him.
I think the show wants me to be touched or regretful when Jim tells Ed he truly considered him a friend, but I simply think both of the characters are idiots and jagoffs. I don't care about either even slightly.
I am not on-board with a cut Mr. Freeze. Brings back too many bad memories of Ah-nuld. Why is it that every single actor on television has to be eye candy nowadays? They even hired a hunk to play the Freaking Penguin! I don't get who this is for.
Love the end with Selina being thrown out the window, and then surrounded by cats. That's Batman Returns. And it's one of the ONLY good things from Batman Returns. I do not mind seeing it referenced here.
How is Alfred satisfied with the clone's explanation here? Yeah, it's possible he's been distant with Alfred because the real Bruce would not want to tell him the truth about wrecking things with Cat. That's plausible. But that doesn't explain why he lets Alfred beat him at chess. The clone thinks that depression over Selina should answer everything. What I don't get is why Alfred thinks it should too.
Kind of a boring week, to be honest. ***.
iZombie "Some Like It Hot Mess"
Aaaand, back to the status quo. It's not like I'm complaining. It was already a good show. But it will probably be even better back with the original premise and no secrets busting up the characters.
Keith Mars directed this. The boss of the hot mess (Ron) also plays one of the Dwarfs on Once Upon A Time.
Part of me thinks that even if Ravi was right about Blaine, he's still a total knob for not having Liv be the one to tell her his theory. The fact that it was right is good. Because it would have been an unbelievable dirtbag move if he had been wrong.
Can't wait for next week. Ret. Tri. Bu. TION. ****.
Lucifer "Deceptive Little Parasite"
Is that pathetic touchy feely principle Elden from The Cosby Show? I'd mock how far he's fallen, but knowing what we all know now, it's lucky he's willing to show his face in public at all.
I love the PE teacher dopily laughing at the end: "I'm a dad? Cool!" Oh, yeah, and something tells me you'll be GREAT at it.
Lucifer letting the killer into Chloe's car shows something essential about him. He is an astonishingly bad judge of character, which considering his job description, is a bit adorable. He is always attributing sinister motives to the innocent that do not exist, and he always gets suckered in by the guilty party's not at all credible performances. Something tells me God probably should have picked a different Sorting Hat for Heaven and Hell than him.
Not a great episode, but diverting enough. ***.
Samurai Jack "Episode XCIX"
Magnificent episode. Lots to unpack.
I am a little bit leery of a romance between Jack and Ashi. Just because Ashi is so young. But the show is playing Jack's responses to the flirtations very interestingly. It is seriously possible Jack is a virgin.
How many human women did Jack encounter on the Original Series? And we know his childhood and teenage years strictly dealt with training around the world. Jack's embarrassed reactions suggest that after 70 years, this is actually new to him. Which sort of makes the romance okay in my mind. And it's the only thing that does.
I loved the episode ending on "Everybody Loves Somebody" upon their kiss. Just because this is the first episode of the series not to play the Samurai Jack theme by Will.I.Am during the end titles. And it is significant that they did that, and I think it was the fact that the show is on Adult Swim instead of Cartoon Network which is why they did. Cartoon Networks squishes the end credits half the time, which would ruin the moment. The fact that Adult Swim always plays the entire credits of every series uninterrupted means they can go for an ending for more romantic, funny, and effective. I mostly think the show is worse for having gone to Adult Swim. It's now slightly too violent and vulgar This is one of the things I think makes it better. The freedom to tell the story the way they want.
Fighting that creature was so bad because every time you hit it, you were just putting out a small fire, and the creature would regroup seconds later just as strong as before. I think Jack accidentally figuring out how to work the weapon is very unsatisfying as far as storytelling goes. And yet, I personally cannot think of a better way out of that particular scenario than that. So I forgive it.
Ashi is NOT just incredibly young, which could make a potential romance awkward. She has no concept of sex, and doesn't understand why Jack is embarrassed and uncomfortable with her nudity. But again, it's the fact that he is which is why I think it might be okay.
Five star episode. *****.
Ben 10 "Story, Bored"
When Hex threw a human Ben across the room I was like "Dude! That's a little kid! Uncool!"
And that's my opinion about that. ***.
Ben 10 "Hole In 10"
A "___ minutes earlier" opening is a bit much in an 11 minute cartoon.
Ben using Diamondhead to get a two par at a minigolf course is pretty much the biggest waste of superpowers I've ever seen.
I like that the Ground Hawgs made Ben their leader and the end and that he got them to rebuild the minigolf course.
I think it is less likely that Max was in a biker gang in his youth and more likely that he's tangled with mutant groundhogs before.
A good one. ***1/2.
Marvel's Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. "The Return"
What a great episode! Ghost Rider!
I was unsure of a Coulson and May romance before, but I'm on board now. Because whatever else it will be, it will be funny. I love how furious she was Coulson drank their special bottle with her robot, and I love that Coulson thinks he got a reprieve from her shade when she asks if her robot tried to kill him. Yeah, THAT'S the thing he's weird about.
Forgot that May never found out how the stuff with Ghost Rider ended. Well, now it's back again.
Great cliffhanger with Yoyo. I hope she is a series regular next year.
Fitz realizing he's exactly like Ward was a great moment. Because that's what he was.
Am I the only one who was dumb enough to hope for a genuine redemption for Ophelia? Freaking genre. This is why we can't have nice things. Love her starting to screw the Russian at the end, before bashing his robot's head in. His double's reaction to witnessing that was perfect: "Feel better?"
Love the moment where Simmons comforted Fitz at the end. I am not crazy enough to believe they can simply get back together after this, but they will still always be there for each other, which is the important thing in my mind.
"Do you expect me to believe that?" is Talbot's catchphrase. He ever gets an action figure, I want it to be programmed so that it says that.
Can't wait for next week! *****.
Marvel's Guardians Of The Galaxy "Symbiote War: Part One: Wild World"
Rocket Symbiote is freaky.
Interesting to learn the mythology and history behind the Venom Symbiote. Not sure if this is just the show's explanation, or something that is also true in the comics, but it was interesting. ****.
Marvel's Guardians Of The Galaxy "Symbiote War: Part Two: I Will Survive"
I laughed upon the reveal that it was Thor who abstained his vote. He votes with actions! Big chuckle.
I thought Peter and Victoria's scene where Victoria admits she's ashamed of their father, and is doing every in her power to erase her mistakes was beyond sweet. A lesser show would have had those two characters be estranged. But Peter has always, ALWAYS loved Victoria, beyond all reason, and it would surprise me if she didn't feel the same way because of that. I'm glad the show did the right thing for the characters there. ****.
Marvel's Guardians Of The Galaxy "Symbiote War: Part Three: Thunder Road"
I kept wondering why Loki put one of his Avengers whammies on Peter, especially since it didn't seem to work, until the end, and I was like "Oh." And I laughed. Loki thinks of everything. The fact that Odin actually granted Peter's insane request shows that Asgardians are dimmer than most people. Loki does not have to be a genius to run circles around these chumps. They are practically asking to get took.
The weakest of the three parts. ***1/2.
Once Upon A Time "The Song In Your Heart"
That was an ordeal.
Ironically, out of all of the "dramatic" shows I watch, Once Upon A Time is one of the only ones which I think would lend itself well to a musical episode. Which makes it a bit alarming the episode sucked as much as it did. And it SUCKED. And it should not have.
I wish Once wasn't a serial. Because I would have just skipped that. There were several points where I truly debated whether or not to shut this off, but I knew I had to watch it because this is an arc based show. But I was pretty much thinking "Kill me now!" by the end of that.
The story is terrible, the song lyrics are beyond dumb, and the musical voices are so professional sounding, I have a nasty suspicion most of the cast didn't even sing their own lyrics. This is everything people hate about musical episodes, with nothing about them they love.
I will give the episode a single star, because even if the lyrics were terrible, not all of the melodies were. But I still wouldn't sing along to lyrics that bad, even if they ARE attached to otherwise hummable-sounding earworms. I'd be too embarrassed.
One of the worst episodes of the season, and frankly, the series. *.
The Simpsons "Moho House"
The singers of the Simpsons song are dead? That idea, even if it's a joke, saddens me. As does the idea that Marge cries every night instead of sleeping.
I hate episodes that show the Simpsons' marriage in trouble, but at least this took an interesting tack: instead of splitting due to a huge fight, they were drifting apart due to lack of common interests.
I REALLY love Marge's new hairstyle. I almost wish it would be permanent.
I thought Smithers' mother was dead. Why else would he be raised by Mr. Burns after his father died?
I like that Smithers was nice enough to get Nigel off the hook for his debt. It may have been out of spite, but he was also right that Mr. Burns didn't actually need that fortune.
I laughed at Flanders buying harps for both Maude and Edna. Less funny was his version of "Take Me Out To The Ballgame". And when I say "less funny" I actually mean "horrifying".
I love Moe pointing out the Shining end didn't make any sense. And if the writers truly think Moe is too lonely they could pair him up with Maya again. She DID appear last week after all.
Average. **1/2.
Bob's Burgers "Moms, Lies And Videotapes"
That was Avenue Q meets Caligula meets a fight behind a Dairy Queen. You saw Caligula? What's Caligula?
Linda is so gross with her sneezes. I literally HATE people like that.
Speaking of which, I'd feel more sympathy for Bob and the camera if he wasn't so stupid he forgot to check all that stuff ahead. Even I know you check the batteries and the tape first. I laughed at all three kids picking up the camera. On three!
Somewhat fun but Bob and Linda were annoying. **1/2.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine "Cop-Con"
I love Scully's sweet romance. I laughed that she like it when he put his finger in her mouth.
I also love that Holt was ultimately right about his pleasant seeming enemy. And that Holt's biggest regret is that he wasn't at the party. Which is, I think, the correct moral.
Rosa snoring on the treadmill was hilarious.
Charles being jealous of the robot was less funny but I liked that he repented once he decided Jake meant it as a replacement for Amy. That was good.
Good episode. ***1/2.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine "Chasing Amy"
What amazes me is that Amy is not a very funny character. And yet when Jake is mimicking her personality, she is. Which will make me enjoy the character more from now on.
I could have told Holt and Terry that no kids liked model trains. That was even true when I was a kid.
Pretty good. ***1/2.
Prison Break "Phaecia"
Loved Michael blinding Cyclops like that. Dude had it coming in my book.
Fast paced and action packed. Can't wait for next week. ****.
The Last Man On Earth "When The Going Gets Tough"
I love Melissa stepping up. This tells me the flashforward was a great idea.
Love and Tandy and Jasper together too, which again tells me the same thing.
I was nearly weeping with Todd near the end. What a great and moving moment. Totally shipping Gale and Erica.
One thing I didn't like was Tandy with the Phil mask. Do they have to make Tandy the single worst person who ever lived? Does that actually help the show? If so, how?
Great cliffhanger too. ****.
The Last Man On Earth "Nature's Horchata"
What a great cliffhanger. I sincerely hope this means Kristen Wiig is going to be a regular cast member next year. I was super worried to see Pat and then delighted at the fact that Pamela instantly killed him. This show is so great.
Tandy however is not. He is such a creepy sex offender around Erica nursing and his stupid speeches were the things that put the group in danger in the first place. No, that's not entirely true. That also had to do with Carol's stupid candles. I'm thinking if Tandy and Carol are the best humanity has to offer I see everyone left on Earth eventually earning a Darwin Award in a similar manner.
Loved the look on Melissa's face as she covered up the Shawshank hole with a picture of Rita Hayworth. Even better was her and Todd bonding over the film when they decided everyone should move to Mexico.
I sincerely hope this show is renewed. It is for some miraculous reason still great. *****.
Making History "The Duel"
Dumb. If Chris really doesn't have any friends and is celebrating his birthday alone, why is he pretending it's okay to get rid of Dan and Deb?
That reporter is super hot. Every time I see that actress in something I am reminded she could have been a supermodel.
Chris is dumb. Dan trying to quash the newspaper story is the thing that will get the reporter's attention. How does a supposedly smart person like Chris not know this?
Newspapers are what people who don't have phones read on the toilet? That makes modern newspapers sound more useful than they actually are.
So-so. ***.
Fargo "The Narrow Escape Problem"
Gettin' good. I like that they got Billy Bob Thornton to narrate the Peter and the Wolf introduction at the beginning. And of course, Gloria is Peter.
Stuff is spinning out of control for both Ray and Emmitt. We'll see how bad it gets next week. Ironically, if Ray had been fired five minutes earlier Gloria might never have been turned on to him. Then again, the cop she met in the loo might have still come to see her. But a lot of why the cops seem to be solving this is random coincidence.
The one thing I didn't like was Vargas being such a disgusting eater and a bulimic. It was gross and added nothing. But everything else was good. ****.
Angie Tribeca "This May Sound Unbelievable, But CSI: Miami Did It"
Wow, if this episode title is true, CSI: Miami is DUMB.
There is a difference between something being funny and something being weird and off-putting. This episode fit the latter more than the former.
The zero gravity puke was funny though. **1/2.
The Blacklist "The Debt Collector"
I love that Liz actually convinced Red to spare Kaplan's life. I think he meant it too. But I understand why she refused the truce. She was speaking up for abused women everywhere. She is no going to get past Raymond's abuse and pretend it didn't exist. And frankly, if Liz were slightly more self-aware, she'd realize there is no reason Kaplan needed to do that. Kaplan's mission remains (mostly) righteous.
About that "mostly": He pointing a loaded gun at a teenage bully IS going too far, but I've personally had enough of those little sh*ts and the lives they ruin. I won't lose sleep over it. Besides, she knew she'd never have to shoot him. Because he would automatically do it. Because bullies are cowards.
The Debt Collector admitting he's a sociopath is fun, because it almost seems like his crimes are as righteous as Kaplan's on some level. But no, this is just business. There is money to be made from crimes of revenge, very little to be found in crimes of sadism, even if it's the second thing he is really drawn to.
Gale is a force to be reckoned with. I do not know why he hasn't confronted Ressler yet, but when he does, it is gonna be awesome. He just became a dark horse to win the Red Reddington Game of Thrones.
Pretty good episode. Next week looks amazing. ****.
Blindspot "Mom"
Wow, intelligible title for once.
Honestly? Not great. I think it's ridiculous that Jane and Weller are having those cutesy romantic moments while all of that horror is going on with everybody else. Felt inappropriate for the subject matter.
Unsurprised Roman chose Shepard, but as far as I'm concerned, he's just chosen her for right now. He might be convinced to switch sides again.
Jane and Weller: They seemed to have already known the dose of forgetting drug that was given was not enough to be permanent, and they STILL kept a lie this big from him? Berlanti shows are never good at getting the characters to act sensibly.
I love how brave and rational the director is. He seems cold-blooded, and his underlings are actually more terrified than he claimed they were, but I do not resent him for it in the slightest, simply because when it was his turn, he didn't refuse to offer up his life, when it came down to it. As noted, he was s "pr*ck to the end". And that was cool.
'The ending is just all kinds of ridiculous. I don't even know what to think about something like that. I could accept something like that on Prison Break. But Prison Break is actually a fun show and I love watching it. You'd figure a plot turn that goofy would occur on a show where the lead characters don't suck the life out of every room they enter.
Unimpressed. **1/2.
Doctor Who "Knock Knock"
Time Lord does NOT sound like the name of a species. Good observation by Bill there. Also a good guess on the funny hats (although Twelve claims it's more about the collars).
Regeneration has been mentioned, which says that it's possible Twelve will discuss with Bill what it means before it happens.
Twelve is completely implausible as Bill's grandfather for two reasons. While the Doctor is right to be offended that he doesn't look old enough, that's actually the second least plausible thing. It's possible a woman like Bill had a white grandfather. But not THAT white.
The Landlord is SUCH a creepy scumbag.
Bill says she's "mostly" into girls, which says that even though she's a lesbian, she's also bicurious.
Twelve says he sat in for Quincy Jones. Am I silly for hoping it was Twelve himself who did that, instead of one of his younger, foxier incarnations?
The Doctor says not to be scared because it isn't helpful. It's true, but that observation isn't helpful either.
Whoa! Twelve gets an "Everybody lives!" Well, technically the bad guys died. But I shed no tears.
I am 100% certain Missy is on the other side of the door. Nardol is right. There are plenty of monsters on Earth. And I can see UNIT forcing the Doctor to stay on Earth and watch over the latest incarnation of The Master. She IS his fault, after all.
Pretty good. ***1/2.
Class "Co-Owner Of A Lonely Heart"
Last week was the first good episode of the show. This week is the first GREAT episode of the show.
April's mother's feet moving at the end as she and Ram jumped into another dimension was the best cliffhanger EVER! Super exciting and heart-pounding.
I love the Shadow King's make-up. It reminds me heavily of the demon Skip on Angel. I laughed upon the female Shadowkin asking if it was good for him, and him asking if it was all right to cuddle. Probably the most sexually subversive thing I've seen with two people made up like that since Farscape's D'Argo and Chiana.
I want to see Ms. Quill with free will. Whether she becomes a bad character, or chooses to remain a hero, she will be a more interesting character for it.
Charlie was gettin' it from all sides this episode. We see for the first time that he's less the heroic alien prince, and more like the slaveholding aristocrat. And it's weird that both interpretations fit him. I love his boyfriend constantly correcting him whenever he softens his language. TYRANTS are the only people who talk about killing as eliminating, and his boyfriend wants him to understand what company he is keeping when he is doing that.
It's took Torchwood three seasons to become watchable. It took this show four episodes. ****1/2.
DC Super Hero Girls "Wildside, Part One"
Is it just me or does Starfire not look like an alien at all? For all we know, she could just have a Snookie spray tan.
Except for the hair on fire. Is that from the comics? Because it's cool. ***.
Supergirl "City Of Lost Children"
The scene where Rhea picks up Lena's phone and says "Hello, Supergirl," is a great scene. Stipulated. And it's not remotely plausible. Lena doesn't see her screeching at the top of her lungs into the phone from across the room? And while I am very happy to finally learn what the story arc of the season is actually about, it is troubling it took until Episode 20 to get to that. Whatever else this season is, it is also meandering.
Rhea lying to Mon-El about his father shows she's a bad person. She ostensibly tells him as she's killing him that he betrayed her, and she is reclaiming her honor, but that's just jive. If she truly believed she was righteous, she'd tell Mon-El she put a knife in his father's heart because he deserved it. "And I hope they all burn in hell!" Rhea actually has no such convictions. She's a lousy mother and a lousier villain.
I like that the show actually said what was going on between Marcus and James was racial solidarity. Because if they didn't acknowledge the elephant in the room as to what was actually going on, I'd think the show was utterly gutless.
Oh, and James' speech in the climax was so cheesy, it could have been said by Captain Kirk.
This show has major problems. ***.
The Flash "Cause And Effect"
Why is Grant Gustin so legitimately funny when he's playing a total dope?
"Bart sounds kind of cool." I like Wally.
Savitar has a cooler suit than Flash does.
Frankly, I think Joe, Iris, and Wally are far more forgiving to the idea that Savitar is a version of Barry than they need to be. It seems to me it doesn't matter if it's an alternate future version. He still has all of Barry's memories up to this point. That makes him culpable in my mind. And that's my opinion of the day.
Savitar gave them their way out. "The more you time-travel, the less the rules apply to you." That means all of this predestination s*** is something that doesn't actually apply to this specific situation. There is a reality and way out there for Barry to win.
HR says "I've never met another person either." Why does that sound credible?
I love Julian whispering in court that Fire Monger is a lame name, and then Cisco leaning forward to assure him it was actually cool. Funny moment, because I think only Cisco realized how dumb is was to insult someone that dangerous in front of them.
I love the moment of Cisco trying to stir good memories in Killer Frost. When she says she never loved any of them at the end, I know she's the biggest liar in the Arrowverse.
Personally, I would have kept Barry with amnesia at least until the big day when Savitar killed Iris. Because that would have worked. It makes no sense that they didn't try that exact same plan again after that. It was a good one.
King Shark and Captain Cold next week. Can't wait. ****.
Arrow "Honor Thy Fathers"
Suffice it to say, that was unlike any other Arrow Episode 20 EVER. Usually things get worse and worse at this point, but we actually got a reprieve here. I can't tell if that's good, or an insane storytelling choice.
Flashbacks were good, and we got some hints about the beard, and learned the story behind the Deathstroke mask on the beach. Things are coming full circle.
Oliver seems genuinely surprised his father is a killer. My question is, why? His parents have always been terrible people, and they've never denied that fact. What would truly have shocked me is that if he WASN'T actually guilty.
Speaking of shocking, I fully expected Oliver himself to be fingered as the culprit. And even if Chase had faked the evidence to do that, that would have made more sense tactically than what he did. Robert's name being besmirched does absolutely nothing. And it's s*** like this which is why Superhero projects REALLY p*ss me off. And I mean REALLY. Thea isn't destined to become a monster because both of her parents are. If Thea decides to become a monster, that is simply because she chose to be. Superhero projects take the discredited, and frankly, dangerous, idea that criminality is genetic. And if someone's actions are decided by their genes, nobody is truly responsible for anything. Which is b.s.
I am sick and tired of seeing project after project about how Lex and Lena Luthor are destined to become supervillains, or Superman and Batman are fated to become to become saviors. Each of those characters is actually the way they are because they chose to be. Not only is the genetic destiny idea letting Luthor off the hook, but it's also saying that Batman and Superman's accomplishments are less impressive than they actually are. Which is in my mind a crazy storytelling decision. Robert could have been a secret serial killer, and that has nothing to do with Oliver and his actions. And I'm puzzled why not only Chase thinks that, but that on some level the writers are willing to make that argument too (even while ultimately landing on the correct side of the moral).
Speaking of Oliver's actions, I jumped back at Felicity saying Oliver is not a killer. That is SO freaking untrue, I cannot believe the writers had her say it. She doesn't appear to be lying, so it's like the writers are pretending that Oliver isn't something he definitely is. And hasn't that been what this entire season is about? Why would the writers not only have Felicity say that, but not even have Oliver correct her?
And if Oliver is not a killer, why do his people seem to be going for kill shots with their guns? I might have bought the idea that Oliver was using less lethal force than usual. BEFORE he let Rene and Dinah on the team. Now this is just infuriating. And Rene was straight up trying to kill the bad guy at the end. He admitted it. What is wrong with the writers? How can they compartmentalize these essential themes of the show so completely, and with no irony, or even reason behind them? Berlanti is REALLY bad at this.
Rene seems to think his daughter would be better off and happier without him. Here's an opinion: I don't think he's wrong. And it's not that his actions at the end of the episode changed my mind to that opinion. I've always thought that. And I think Quentin is putting too much of his own personal hang-ups into the matter. But if the show ultimately decides to show Quentin is right, I'll think a lot less of it. Because I think Rene was right about that all along.
I love the moment at the end where Oliver reveals Chase's father is ashamed of him. Chase has spent the episode (and frankly, the season) trying to prove to Oliver the motives behind his mission were bogus. And it turns out Chase is pursuing this vendetta on behalf of a father who was ashamed of him. Oliver is right about something about Robert: For all of his faults, he loved and believed in his children. And for this entire circus to have been started because Chase was unaware the same thing couldn't be said for his own dad is beyond pathetic.
Why did Chase meet William at the end of the last episode if it is not brought up (even in the recap) here? Something tells me next week or the week after is going to be tough for Oliver. Frankly, I half expected the crate to contain William's dead body. We'll see.
This was all right for what is was, and I'm sure comic book fans will not have the same problems with it I do, but I sort of reject the premise of the episode, the season, and comic books in general. People are responsible for their own actions. Period. **1/2.
Gotham "Heroes Rise: The Outsiders"
I think the show is for going for bad@$$ with Jim in the mask at the end, but instead it's just goofy as h*ll. How is it comic book TV shows and movies believe they can actually play a moment like that straight with no irony or self-awareness? There is a reason superhero projects get a bad rap with critics. They deserve it.
What I love about Selina's full-throated defense about Bruce to the clone, is that you can tell she didn't even realize how awesome Bruce was until the words escaped her mouth. Bruce would try to save everyone. And maybe this twerp is finally making her realize how unusual (and good) that is.
Drew Powell is one of those actors that you don't see on the show every week, but when you do, you immediately feel how weak the show is for him having been gone for awhile. He truly is the one irreplaceable non-kid actor left on the show.
How does Gordon survive his encounter with Ed? By telling him that killing him makes a riddle unsolvable. He said the exact right thing. Genies should fear him.
I think the show wants me to be touched or regretful when Jim tells Ed he truly considered him a friend, but I simply think both of the characters are idiots and jagoffs. I don't care about either even slightly.
I am not on-board with a cut Mr. Freeze. Brings back too many bad memories of Ah-nuld. Why is it that every single actor on television has to be eye candy nowadays? They even hired a hunk to play the Freaking Penguin! I don't get who this is for.
Love the end with Selina being thrown out the window, and then surrounded by cats. That's Batman Returns. And it's one of the ONLY good things from Batman Returns. I do not mind seeing it referenced here.
How is Alfred satisfied with the clone's explanation here? Yeah, it's possible he's been distant with Alfred because the real Bruce would not want to tell him the truth about wrecking things with Cat. That's plausible. But that doesn't explain why he lets Alfred beat him at chess. The clone thinks that depression over Selina should answer everything. What I don't get is why Alfred thinks it should too.
Kind of a boring week, to be honest. ***.
iZombie "Some Like It Hot Mess"
Aaaand, back to the status quo. It's not like I'm complaining. It was already a good show. But it will probably be even better back with the original premise and no secrets busting up the characters.
Keith Mars directed this. The boss of the hot mess (Ron) also plays one of the Dwarfs on Once Upon A Time.
Part of me thinks that even if Ravi was right about Blaine, he's still a total knob for not having Liv be the one to tell her his theory. The fact that it was right is good. Because it would have been an unbelievable dirtbag move if he had been wrong.
Can't wait for next week. Ret. Tri. Bu. TION. ****.
Lucifer "Deceptive Little Parasite"
Is that pathetic touchy feely principle Elden from The Cosby Show? I'd mock how far he's fallen, but knowing what we all know now, it's lucky he's willing to show his face in public at all.
I love the PE teacher dopily laughing at the end: "I'm a dad? Cool!" Oh, yeah, and something tells me you'll be GREAT at it.
Lucifer letting the killer into Chloe's car shows something essential about him. He is an astonishingly bad judge of character, which considering his job description, is a bit adorable. He is always attributing sinister motives to the innocent that do not exist, and he always gets suckered in by the guilty party's not at all credible performances. Something tells me God probably should have picked a different Sorting Hat for Heaven and Hell than him.
Not a great episode, but diverting enough. ***.
Samurai Jack "Episode XCIX"
Magnificent episode. Lots to unpack.
I am a little bit leery of a romance between Jack and Ashi. Just because Ashi is so young. But the show is playing Jack's responses to the flirtations very interestingly. It is seriously possible Jack is a virgin.
How many human women did Jack encounter on the Original Series? And we know his childhood and teenage years strictly dealt with training around the world. Jack's embarrassed reactions suggest that after 70 years, this is actually new to him. Which sort of makes the romance okay in my mind. And it's the only thing that does.
I loved the episode ending on "Everybody Loves Somebody" upon their kiss. Just because this is the first episode of the series not to play the Samurai Jack theme by Will.I.Am during the end titles. And it is significant that they did that, and I think it was the fact that the show is on Adult Swim instead of Cartoon Network which is why they did. Cartoon Networks squishes the end credits half the time, which would ruin the moment. The fact that Adult Swim always plays the entire credits of every series uninterrupted means they can go for an ending for more romantic, funny, and effective. I mostly think the show is worse for having gone to Adult Swim. It's now slightly too violent and vulgar This is one of the things I think makes it better. The freedom to tell the story the way they want.
Fighting that creature was so bad because every time you hit it, you were just putting out a small fire, and the creature would regroup seconds later just as strong as before. I think Jack accidentally figuring out how to work the weapon is very unsatisfying as far as storytelling goes. And yet, I personally cannot think of a better way out of that particular scenario than that. So I forgive it.
Ashi is NOT just incredibly young, which could make a potential romance awkward. She has no concept of sex, and doesn't understand why Jack is embarrassed and uncomfortable with her nudity. But again, it's the fact that he is which is why I think it might be okay.
Five star episode. *****.
Ben 10 "Story, Bored"
When Hex threw a human Ben across the room I was like "Dude! That's a little kid! Uncool!"
And that's my opinion about that. ***.
Ben 10 "Hole In 10"
A "___ minutes earlier" opening is a bit much in an 11 minute cartoon.
Ben using Diamondhead to get a two par at a minigolf course is pretty much the biggest waste of superpowers I've ever seen.
I like that the Ground Hawgs made Ben their leader and the end and that he got them to rebuild the minigolf course.
I think it is less likely that Max was in a biker gang in his youth and more likely that he's tangled with mutant groundhogs before.
A good one. ***1/2.
Marvel's Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. "The Return"
What a great episode! Ghost Rider!
I was unsure of a Coulson and May romance before, but I'm on board now. Because whatever else it will be, it will be funny. I love how furious she was Coulson drank their special bottle with her robot, and I love that Coulson thinks he got a reprieve from her shade when she asks if her robot tried to kill him. Yeah, THAT'S the thing he's weird about.
Forgot that May never found out how the stuff with Ghost Rider ended. Well, now it's back again.
Great cliffhanger with Yoyo. I hope she is a series regular next year.
Fitz realizing he's exactly like Ward was a great moment. Because that's what he was.
Am I the only one who was dumb enough to hope for a genuine redemption for Ophelia? Freaking genre. This is why we can't have nice things. Love her starting to screw the Russian at the end, before bashing his robot's head in. His double's reaction to witnessing that was perfect: "Feel better?"
Love the moment where Simmons comforted Fitz at the end. I am not crazy enough to believe they can simply get back together after this, but they will still always be there for each other, which is the important thing in my mind.
"Do you expect me to believe that?" is Talbot's catchphrase. He ever gets an action figure, I want it to be programmed so that it says that.
Can't wait for next week! *****.
Marvel's Guardians Of The Galaxy "Symbiote War: Part One: Wild World"
Rocket Symbiote is freaky.
Interesting to learn the mythology and history behind the Venom Symbiote. Not sure if this is just the show's explanation, or something that is also true in the comics, but it was interesting. ****.
Marvel's Guardians Of The Galaxy "Symbiote War: Part Two: I Will Survive"
I laughed upon the reveal that it was Thor who abstained his vote. He votes with actions! Big chuckle.
I thought Peter and Victoria's scene where Victoria admits she's ashamed of their father, and is doing every in her power to erase her mistakes was beyond sweet. A lesser show would have had those two characters be estranged. But Peter has always, ALWAYS loved Victoria, beyond all reason, and it would surprise me if she didn't feel the same way because of that. I'm glad the show did the right thing for the characters there. ****.
Marvel's Guardians Of The Galaxy "Symbiote War: Part Three: Thunder Road"
I kept wondering why Loki put one of his Avengers whammies on Peter, especially since it didn't seem to work, until the end, and I was like "Oh." And I laughed. Loki thinks of everything. The fact that Odin actually granted Peter's insane request shows that Asgardians are dimmer than most people. Loki does not have to be a genius to run circles around these chumps. They are practically asking to get took.
The weakest of the three parts. ***1/2.
Once Upon A Time "The Song In Your Heart"
That was an ordeal.
Ironically, out of all of the "dramatic" shows I watch, Once Upon A Time is one of the only ones which I think would lend itself well to a musical episode. Which makes it a bit alarming the episode sucked as much as it did. And it SUCKED. And it should not have.
I wish Once wasn't a serial. Because I would have just skipped that. There were several points where I truly debated whether or not to shut this off, but I knew I had to watch it because this is an arc based show. But I was pretty much thinking "Kill me now!" by the end of that.
The story is terrible, the song lyrics are beyond dumb, and the musical voices are so professional sounding, I have a nasty suspicion most of the cast didn't even sing their own lyrics. This is everything people hate about musical episodes, with nothing about them they love.
I will give the episode a single star, because even if the lyrics were terrible, not all of the melodies were. But I still wouldn't sing along to lyrics that bad, even if they ARE attached to otherwise hummable-sounding earworms. I'd be too embarrassed.
One of the worst episodes of the season, and frankly, the series. *.
The Simpsons "Moho House"
The singers of the Simpsons song are dead? That idea, even if it's a joke, saddens me. As does the idea that Marge cries every night instead of sleeping.
I hate episodes that show the Simpsons' marriage in trouble, but at least this took an interesting tack: instead of splitting due to a huge fight, they were drifting apart due to lack of common interests.
I REALLY love Marge's new hairstyle. I almost wish it would be permanent.
I thought Smithers' mother was dead. Why else would he be raised by Mr. Burns after his father died?
I like that Smithers was nice enough to get Nigel off the hook for his debt. It may have been out of spite, but he was also right that Mr. Burns didn't actually need that fortune.
I laughed at Flanders buying harps for both Maude and Edna. Less funny was his version of "Take Me Out To The Ballgame". And when I say "less funny" I actually mean "horrifying".
I love Moe pointing out the Shining end didn't make any sense. And if the writers truly think Moe is too lonely they could pair him up with Maya again. She DID appear last week after all.
Average. **1/2.
Bob's Burgers "Moms, Lies And Videotapes"
That was Avenue Q meets Caligula meets a fight behind a Dairy Queen. You saw Caligula? What's Caligula?
Linda is so gross with her sneezes. I literally HATE people like that.
Speaking of which, I'd feel more sympathy for Bob and the camera if he wasn't so stupid he forgot to check all that stuff ahead. Even I know you check the batteries and the tape first. I laughed at all three kids picking up the camera. On three!
Somewhat fun but Bob and Linda were annoying. **1/2.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine "Cop-Con"
I love Scully's sweet romance. I laughed that she like it when he put his finger in her mouth.
I also love that Holt was ultimately right about his pleasant seeming enemy. And that Holt's biggest regret is that he wasn't at the party. Which is, I think, the correct moral.
Rosa snoring on the treadmill was hilarious.
Charles being jealous of the robot was less funny but I liked that he repented once he decided Jake meant it as a replacement for Amy. That was good.
Good episode. ***1/2.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine "Chasing Amy"
What amazes me is that Amy is not a very funny character. And yet when Jake is mimicking her personality, she is. Which will make me enjoy the character more from now on.
I could have told Holt and Terry that no kids liked model trains. That was even true when I was a kid.
Pretty good. ***1/2.
Prison Break "Phaecia"
Loved Michael blinding Cyclops like that. Dude had it coming in my book.
Fast paced and action packed. Can't wait for next week. ****.
The Last Man On Earth "When The Going Gets Tough"
I love Melissa stepping up. This tells me the flashforward was a great idea.
Love and Tandy and Jasper together too, which again tells me the same thing.
I was nearly weeping with Todd near the end. What a great and moving moment. Totally shipping Gale and Erica.
One thing I didn't like was Tandy with the Phil mask. Do they have to make Tandy the single worst person who ever lived? Does that actually help the show? If so, how?
Great cliffhanger too. ****.
The Last Man On Earth "Nature's Horchata"
What a great cliffhanger. I sincerely hope this means Kristen Wiig is going to be a regular cast member next year. I was super worried to see Pat and then delighted at the fact that Pamela instantly killed him. This show is so great.
Tandy however is not. He is such a creepy sex offender around Erica nursing and his stupid speeches were the things that put the group in danger in the first place. No, that's not entirely true. That also had to do with Carol's stupid candles. I'm thinking if Tandy and Carol are the best humanity has to offer I see everyone left on Earth eventually earning a Darwin Award in a similar manner.
Loved the look on Melissa's face as she covered up the Shawshank hole with a picture of Rita Hayworth. Even better was her and Todd bonding over the film when they decided everyone should move to Mexico.
I sincerely hope this show is renewed. It is for some miraculous reason still great. *****.
Making History "The Duel"
Dumb. If Chris really doesn't have any friends and is celebrating his birthday alone, why is he pretending it's okay to get rid of Dan and Deb?
That reporter is super hot. Every time I see that actress in something I am reminded she could have been a supermodel.
Chris is dumb. Dan trying to quash the newspaper story is the thing that will get the reporter's attention. How does a supposedly smart person like Chris not know this?
Newspapers are what people who don't have phones read on the toilet? That makes modern newspapers sound more useful than they actually are.
So-so. ***.
Fargo "The Narrow Escape Problem"
Gettin' good. I like that they got Billy Bob Thornton to narrate the Peter and the Wolf introduction at the beginning. And of course, Gloria is Peter.
Stuff is spinning out of control for both Ray and Emmitt. We'll see how bad it gets next week. Ironically, if Ray had been fired five minutes earlier Gloria might never have been turned on to him. Then again, the cop she met in the loo might have still come to see her. But a lot of why the cops seem to be solving this is random coincidence.
The one thing I didn't like was Vargas being such a disgusting eater and a bulimic. It was gross and added nothing. But everything else was good. ****.
Angie Tribeca "This May Sound Unbelievable, But CSI: Miami Did It"
Wow, if this episode title is true, CSI: Miami is DUMB.
There is a difference between something being funny and something being weird and off-putting. This episode fit the latter more than the former.
The zero gravity puke was funny though. **1/2.
The Blacklist "The Debt Collector"
I love that Liz actually convinced Red to spare Kaplan's life. I think he meant it too. But I understand why she refused the truce. She was speaking up for abused women everywhere. She is no going to get past Raymond's abuse and pretend it didn't exist. And frankly, if Liz were slightly more self-aware, she'd realize there is no reason Kaplan needed to do that. Kaplan's mission remains (mostly) righteous.
About that "mostly": He pointing a loaded gun at a teenage bully IS going too far, but I've personally had enough of those little sh*ts and the lives they ruin. I won't lose sleep over it. Besides, she knew she'd never have to shoot him. Because he would automatically do it. Because bullies are cowards.
The Debt Collector admitting he's a sociopath is fun, because it almost seems like his crimes are as righteous as Kaplan's on some level. But no, this is just business. There is money to be made from crimes of revenge, very little to be found in crimes of sadism, even if it's the second thing he is really drawn to.
Gale is a force to be reckoned with. I do not know why he hasn't confronted Ressler yet, but when he does, it is gonna be awesome. He just became a dark horse to win the Red Reddington Game of Thrones.
Pretty good episode. Next week looks amazing. ****.
Blindspot "Mom"
Wow, intelligible title for once.
Honestly? Not great. I think it's ridiculous that Jane and Weller are having those cutesy romantic moments while all of that horror is going on with everybody else. Felt inappropriate for the subject matter.
Unsurprised Roman chose Shepard, but as far as I'm concerned, he's just chosen her for right now. He might be convinced to switch sides again.
Jane and Weller: They seemed to have already known the dose of forgetting drug that was given was not enough to be permanent, and they STILL kept a lie this big from him? Berlanti shows are never good at getting the characters to act sensibly.
I love how brave and rational the director is. He seems cold-blooded, and his underlings are actually more terrified than he claimed they were, but I do not resent him for it in the slightest, simply because when it was his turn, he didn't refuse to offer up his life, when it came down to it. As noted, he was s "pr*ck to the end". And that was cool.
'The ending is just all kinds of ridiculous. I don't even know what to think about something like that. I could accept something like that on Prison Break. But Prison Break is actually a fun show and I love watching it. You'd figure a plot turn that goofy would occur on a show where the lead characters don't suck the life out of every room they enter.
Unimpressed. **1/2.