Monday, December 22, 2008

'Crusoe' Does Its Surivor/Gladiator Impression

NBC's New Action Adventure Series 'Crusoe'By LillyKat
PTR Senior Staff Writer


Was Mark Burnett a consult on this past weekend's episode of Crusoe?

'Cause it sure felt like some sort of Survivor meets American Gladiators cross-over special set in the 1700s. And since Mr. MB is the king of all-things reality television, well ... I dunno ... I had to kinda laugh at the tit-for-tat between Crusoe and Friday this week as they set about proving their skill (and manhood) through a variety of tests - Crusoe being the intellectual, I-passed-the-exams guy; Friday being the tribal son, having been put through his own paces.

And yet, it wasn't all laughs.

Entertaining, yes.

Funny, always.

Emotional, but of course!

(Even though I did feel like singing: "Anything you can do I can do better; I can do anything better than you!")

The tit-for-tat aside, I once again found myself completely ensconced in the deep, soulful friendship that exists between Friday and Crusoe. Cripes, do they even make friendship like that anymore? I swear, watching these two makes me want to be a better friend to ... well, my friends.

When Crusoe just doesn't seem to understand how much it means to Friday that he can beat him at one test, and Friday leaves the treehouse in a huff (or what we would call a hissy fit if he were a girl), Crusoe tracks him down on the beach, brings him food, pokes fun at his own self and then delivers a great bit of dialogue that they are surviving this thing together.

Without each other, they are nothing.

Or specifically, without Friday, Crusoe is nothing.

Awww! (Seriously, I'm ready to marry Crusoe right about now, but that's beside the point).

Ne'er mind that all this chest pounding, prove-me-to-you stuff has to do with a failed test of Friday's childhood that left him less the warrior in his father's eyes. This leads to Crusoe's own confession that he doesn't think himself much of a man, either, given he had to abandon his wife and children. Both feel as if they are failures in their father's eyes (and fathers are theme this week at PTR, eh?)

Nonetheless, Friday saves Crusoe's hide once again.

From a seriously hungry crocodile.

And in that never-going-to-fail-you bond of friendship, and even with its bumps and bruises (literally), there is something both fathers could be proud of.

And how about the flashbacks this week? Crusoe WAS making a good living for himself in the West Indies as a plantation owner, sending money back to his beloved Susannah to pay off his debts only to be betrayed by Blackthorn and Co.

Argh!!!!

They have it out for poor Crusoe. And they keep trying to convince Susannah he's dead, but she does not give up hope.

I. Love. That.

And now we see how Crusoe is being tricked into coming home - a fake posting in the paper by Blackthorn to say Crusoe's children are in trouble. Soooo, he forks over the deed to his ENTIRE plantation to a Scottish sea captain to get him to sail him back to England.

But we know how well that did NOT go.

Shipwreck, anyone?

**PROGRAMMING NOTE: The next new episode of Crusoe airs in three weeks, on January 10th.

New episodes of Crusoe air Saturdays at 8 p.m. on NBC. Visit NBC's Official Crusoe Web site for the inside scoop on the series. The site is awfully cool - and that's not just the Pirates fangirl in me talking.

Fly the 'Cold' Skies

(photo courtesy cbs.com)

The most shocking thing about this week's episode of Cold Case wasn't the killer.  It was the level of service one used to receive from an airline!  Did you see the shrimp cocktail, the expensive drinks, and the "world is your oyster" style service?!  Now, you're lucky if you get half a can of soda and a bag of peanuts!  The good old days, indeed.  I had only heard about the days when pilots and flight attendants were treated like rock stars, although the sexual harassment sidebar was absent from those tales.  Can't say I found it surprising, though.  It was the 60s.  The second most shocking thing about this episode was seeing Amanda Schull again (the poor, unfortunate Ally).  The last time I saw her she was dancing all over the big screen in 2000's Center Stage.  As far as this episode is concerned, everybody seemed like a suspect so no big surprise at the end.  I'm not sure that I found Gloria to be the most likely of the lot, though.  In fact, there didn't seem to be a very good reason for anyone to kill Ally, but then again, there isn't always one that makes sense in real life either.  I just enjoyed the nostalgic look at the airline industry, so the whole killer thing was secondary this week.

Well, she finally did it.  Lil stepped out of the stalker shadows and approached her father.  And it wasn't a moment too soon, either.  I was seriously starting to get VERY bored with this story line.  They talked (kind of), but then Lil retreated in her usual fashion.  I'm not sure what she's hoping to accomplish with this little project.  I guess it would be nice to know that she has some family that she can actually track down and turn to if she needs them.  It makes life a little less lonely.  I'm hoping that whatever is hanging between these two is hashed out -- in front of us.  I'm dying to know what hasn't been said because it seems to be bursting at the seams! Meanwhile, things seem to be heating up between Frankie and Scotty.  He's not one to beat around the bush (as opposed to Lil), and it appears that she isn't either.  I like these two, so I'm intrigued to see where it leads.  Overall, a good episode.  CC moves to 10-0-1 on the season.  

EDIT:  I completely forgot to mention how awesome Kathryn Morris's performance was in this one!  She rocked that scene with Lilly's dad.  You could tell that part of Lil wanted to wrap her arms around her father and forgive anything and everything that transpired between the them.  And then the other part wanted to turn around and forget the whole thing.  Add in the sadness, the excitement, the sense that there was so much hanging between them and just wow!  Brilliant!  I can't believe I forgot to give her mad props for that stellar performance.  You can tell that my mind is way too focused on last-minute Christmas details!

Deck the Halls with Holiday Episodes


Your favorite shows may be on a holiday hiatus, but that doesn't mean you can't watch episodes of some of your former faves from Christmases past. Joost, an online video and social interaction site, put together a collection of holiday-themed episodes from former greats Veronica Mars, Gilmore Girls, Family Ties, Newsradio, Friends, The O.C. and The Beverly Hillbillies as well as current hit Smallville.  All episodes are free and feature high quality-format streaming video.

And while you're filling up with holiday cheer, you can also check out some holiday funny courtesy of Comedy Central.  Joost is featuring Santa Sack, a collection of holiday themed clips from popular stand-up acts and shows like A Colbert Christmas.

You can check out both holiday-themed promotions at Joost.com (Holiday episodes HERE and Comedy Central's Santa's Sack HERE).

Friday, December 19, 2008

SAG Nominations Announced

By LillyKat / PTR Senior Staff Writer

This is probably the only thing going right for the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) these days: the 15th Annual SAG Award nominations are out, and similar to the Golden Globes, we've got a few PTR Faves in the mix. Notably: Michael C. Hall and Dexter ; Kyra Sedgwick and The Closer.

Holly Hunter also gets a nod for Saving Grace, and Tracey Ullman is getting a well-deserved nod for her work on Showtime's Tracey Ullman's State of the Union (yay!). Happy to see Shirley MacLaine up again for her rockin' performance in the Lifetime miniseries, Coco Chanel.

(And I know this is a television blog, but can I just say: GO AMY ADAMS! Love. Her. Glad to see her up for best supporting actress in the motion picture, Doubt.)

With irritation and dissent running rampant within SAG's membership about its direction or lack thereof and its leadership's handling or lack thereof of negotiations with the studios to get a contract (what is it now ... six months and counting?), SAG will need to get together and play nice on January 25th, which is when the 15th Annual SAG Awards will air live on TBS/TNT.

Guess they better not vote to strike, eh?

Main television category nominations are as follows:

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries
RALPH FIENNES / Bernard Lafferty - "BERNARD AND DORIS" (HBO)
PAUL GIAMATTI / John Adams - "JOHN ADAMS" (HBO)
KEVIN SPACEY / Ron Klain - "RECOUNT" (HBO)
KIEFER SUTHERLAND / Jack Bauer - "24: REDEMPTION" (FOX)
TOM WILKINSON / Benjamin Franklin - "JOHN ADAMS" (HBO)

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries
LAURA DERN / Katherine Harris - "RECOUNT" (HBO)
LAURA LINNEY / Abigail Adams - "JOHN ADAMS" (HBO)
SHIRLEY MacLAINE / Coco Chanel - "COCO CHANEL" (Lifetime)
PHYLICIA RASHAD / Lena Younger - "A RAISIN IN THE SUN" (ABC)
SUSAN SARANDON / Doris Duke - "BERNARD AND DORIS" (HBO)

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series
MICHAEL C. HALL / Dexter Morgan - "DEXTER" (Showtime)
JON HAMM / Don Draper - "MAD MEN" (AMC)
HUGH LAURIE / Gregory House - "HOUSE" (FOX)
WILLIAM SHATNER / Denny Crane - "BOSTON LEGAL" (ABC)
JAMES SPADER / Alan Shore - "BOSTON LEGAL" (ABC)

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series
SALLY FIELD / Nora Walker - "BROTHERS & SISTERS" (ABC)
MARISKA HARGITAY / Det. Olivia Benson - "LAW & ORDER: SPECIAL VICTIMS UNIT" (NBC)
HOLLY HUNTER / Grace Hanadarko - "SAVING GRACE" (TNT)
ELISABETH MOSS / Peggy Olson - "MAD MEN" (AMC)
KYRA SEDGWICK / Dep. Chief Brenda Johnson - "THE CLOSER" (TNT)

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series
ALEC BALDWIN / Jack Donaghy - "30 ROCK" (NBC)
STEVE CARELL / Michael Scott - "THE OFFICE" (NBC)
DAVID DUCHOVNY / Hank Moody - "CALIFORNICATION" (Showtime)
JEREMY PIVEN / Ari Gold - "ENTOURAGE" (HBO)
TONY SHALHOUB / Adrian Monk - "MONK" (USA)

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series
CHRISTINA APPLEGATE / Samantha Newly - "SAMANTHA WHO?" (ABC)
AMERICA FERRERA / Betty Suarez - "UGLY BETTY" (ABC)
TINA FEY / Liz Lemon - "30 ROCK" (NBC)
MARY-LOUISE PARKER / Nancy Botwin - "WEEDS" (Showtime)
TRACEY ULLMAN / Various Characters - "TRACEY ULLMAN’S STATE OF THE UNION" (Showtime)

Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series
BOSTON LEGAL (ABC)
THE CLOSER (TNT)
DEXTER (Showtime)
HOUSE (Fox)
MAD MEN (AMC)

Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series
30 ROCK (NBC)
DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES (ABC)
ENTOURAGE (HBO)
THE OFFICE (NBC)
WEEDS (Showtime)


For a full list of all the nominees, head on over to SAG.

JD Sees the 'Lights'

Can I just tell you guys that I breathed a HUGE sigh of relief when I saw the previews for the next episode?!  I was so concerned that this was it.  Thankfully, we have two more episodes to enjoy after the New Year.  As the episode wore on, I began to feel that there was no way this was the last one, but I was still a little concerned.  Of course after this, NBC gets a turn at running the episodes.  Let's just hope that goes well so we can enjoy another season of Friday Night Lights because if I don't get to see what happens to Tyra, I might scream. I am so invested in her story!  She broke my heart this week with that heart-to-heart with her mother.  She just needs to work hard, hang in there, and wait for things to begin to fall into place.  She can't expect all of those slacker years to erase themselves with a few stabs at the SATs, membership in a few school activities and a new buckle- down- and- do- the- work attitude.  I do think that good things are in store for her.  And how sweet was Landry to pitch in and help with Mindy's shower?  The best part, though, was that Tyra didn't approach him about it.  He volunteered.  Maybe, just maybe, she has learned her lesson.  She has a lot more to learn, but this could be a good start.

It's a rare day when I utter the phrase, "I have to agree with Tim Riggins," but that's exactly what I was saying while watching this episode.  Lyla needs to stop feeling sorry for herself, apply for some scholarships so she can still attend Vanderbilt, work things out with her father and get off the drink, eat, sleep, drink bandwagon that Tim used to lead.  Yeah, it sucks, Lyla, but everybody has their stuff.  You gotta work through it so it doesn't consume you. 

And then there was JD McCoy and his horrible father.  Finally, JD and his mom are seeing the light.  Let's hope that continues because this kid has to get out from under his overbearing, controlling father ASAP.  He called his son's girlfriend's parents and told them that she was a bad influence!!  WTH??!!  I hope he gets what he deserves for that lovely parking lot beat down he gave his son this week.  Just wow.  I guess we'll have to wait until January 7th to find out.

Friday Night Lights is all-new and commercial-free Wednesday nights on DirecTV's 101. The third season will be seen in its entirety early next year on NBC.

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Ring in 'Christmas in Washington' on TNT

'Christmas in Washington' Musical Concert Airs on TNTBy LillyKat
PTR Senior Staff Writer


It's that most wonderful time of the year!

And TNT rings it once again with their annual music concert, "Christmas in Washington."

Can you believe it is in its 27th year?

Taped at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C., Casting Crowns, Kristin Chenoweth, Julianne Hough, Darius Rucker, Raphael Saadiq and Straight No Chaser will perform; Dr. Phil and Robin McGraw will host the show for the fifth straight year. First Lady Laura Bush is among the honored guests for the hour-long holiday concert.

The concert will premiere exclusively on TNT Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 8 p.m. (ET/PT)

Songs to be performed will include: “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” (Casting Crowns); “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and “What Child is This” (Kristin Chenoweth); “Jingle Bell Rock,” “Santa Baby” and “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” (Julianne Hough); “If I Had Wings” (Darius Rucker); “Merry Christmas, Baby” (Raphael Saadiq); and “Carol of the Bells” and “The 12 Days of Christmas” (Straight No Chaser).

'Tis the season!

Learn more about the show, read up on the performers and view an exclusive photo gallery over at TNT's Christmas in Washington 2008 Web site.

Christmas at the Buy More

I think it's petty safe to assume that anybody who'd kill an evil but unarmed, surrendering man in order to protect the underachieving, yet quaint life of another human being might just have a feeling or two for that human being.  Not that Sarah's rapidly developing, yet frustratingly repressed feelings for Chuck are any sort of news flash, but watching her fatally shoot a man (even if that man was Fulcrum) was definitely breaking news for me (and Chuck apparently).  And I'm with Chuck on this one.  You see, knowing that the person whom you harbor not so secret feelings for takes human lives as part of her job description and actually seeing her do it are two different things.  Plus, Sarah killed that Fulcrum agent to protect the sanctity of Chuck's secret (and thus, the sanctity of his life with his sister and friends), so knowing that she did what she did for him had to sting.  And yet, it's an image that will forever be burned into Chuck's memory for better or worse much like that Intersect he so closely guards.  

I have to admit that I didn't see the Fulcrum twist coming, so I was pretty disappointed that the last episode until February (!!) wasn't going to have any of the usual spy trappings.  But then it happened -- Chuck flashed on the negotiator's watch and it was on.  I loved the twist about the gunman because I never imagined that he was part of Fulcrum.  And while Chuck's secret may have died (assassin-style) with the negotiator, it's alive and well with the original gunman.  Luckily, he's tucked away safely with Casey.  For now anyway.  February can't come soon enough.

If you missed this week's episode ("Chuck Versus Santa Claus"), you can watch it for free at Hulu.com.

'Chronicles' Closes Out 2008

'Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles' Returns for Season 2By LillyKat
PTR Senior Staff Writer


So class ... what have we learned at the end of the first part of the Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles season and/or has been left for us to ponder until the show returns next February?

Kinda nada mucho.

Or did I miss the humdinger - OMFG - did - I - just - see - that - happen adrenalin rush that came from LAST season's finale?

Seriously, this must be my week for expecting more from my season finales than they are actually willing to give.

By my count, T:SCC left us mostly with this:

- Confirmation Reilly has been brought back from the future to keep John Connor away from "her" and is NOT a machine.

What we didn't and/or don't know: She was brought back by the increasingly sinister Jessie - Derek's gal pal and, as far as I'm concerned, yet-to-be determined friend or foe of the team. And this "her" reference - is it Sarah or Cameron that Reilly was supposed to keep at arm's length?

Why it doesn't seem to matter now: Reilly slit her wrists under the pressure to continue the mission? the lie? Have to say, I can't really blame her given she a) flipped out on her foster family, giving them a Judgment Day talking to; and, b) Jessie seems to be a little Hitler-esque in ... how should we say ... inspiring Reilly to stay on point. Funny that I did say Reilly needed to go last week; guess I got my wish.

- Agent Ellison is now psychiatrist designee to teach AI John Henry right from wrong and/or make him a good little machine.

What we don't know: Whether that is going to work. Seriously, do we think it will?

Why it doesn't matter: Well, actually it does, especially since it looks as though John Henry is going to blow Shirley's cover in the next set of episodes. And besides, it's good to see Garret Dillahunt back - makes me miss Cromartie.

- Sarah finally found someone who could answer her pressing three dot conundrum and - BONUS! - it didn't lead to a dead end. In fact, it lead to a former MIT genius turned blogger for the UFO enthusiast crowd turned hermit given her work as a contractor kinda lead her down that know-too-much path. And we know what happens to them kinds of folks, right?

What we don't know: What said MIT genius (Abraham a.k.a. Alan Park a.k.a. equally paranoid - and smart - chicky babe) ACTUALLY knew given that once she gets involved with Sarah, trusts her and wants to show her secret piece of "metal" she acquired before going into hiding, she manages to be offed by the people who tried to take her out a while ago before she wised up to knowing too much and asking one too many questions. What can we say, "they" never stop, do they? And once you're involved with the Connors, chances are, you're going to end up in the middle of some bad juju.

Why it may or may not matter: Sarah managed to track down Abraham's mystery work location whereby she was no doubt working on a super-duper special metal that, naturally, has GOT to be another key to Skynet, right? Maybe. Except Sarah gets herself shot AND manages to pass out right as she sees Luke Skywalker's space ship overhead ... er, that which looks to be one of the first incarnations of those surveillance-type terminator ships that manage to scour the land for human resistance fighters in the future.

Um, yeah ... blow Cam up in the Jeep this was not.

More like, "So, that's it?"

Not the first time I've written that about a finale this week.

At least the promos for the second half of the season look promising ... if the show can survive moving to Fridays.

The fight to save the world continues February, 13 2009 when Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles returns to the airwaves in its new Friday night time slot. You can watch full episodes online. Visit the Official Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles Web site to catch up (or re-watch!)

Monday, December 15, 2008

'Dexter's' Happy Ending

By LillyKat
PTR Senior Staff Writer

Well, that was one big happy ending, eh?

Or at least all's well that ends well.

And yet, I have to confess that although I do like things to wrap up nicely in season finales, they need to leave something for next season. With Dexter, it was almost as if things wrapped up a little TOO nicely.

And that left me unimpressed.

In fact, after watching the previous finales of the first two seasons, I've never been left thinking, "So, that's it? He just rides off into the sunset a happy guy?"

And that, I'm afraid, has been my issue for most of round three: happy-go-lucky BFF Dexter is just not as interesting as darkly conflicted Dexter.

This whole life is good thing doesn't work for me, and it isn't why the show compelled me to watch it in the first place.

So he makes nice with Ramon Prado. So he escapes the confines of Tree Trimmer Killer George King by the skin (no pun intended) of his teeth. So he gets married. So he lives happily ever after until next season.

Yawn.

Even though he didn't have to kill Ramon or have the wedding be a bust, either of those two scenarios would have felt more like a finale to me and/or made me whole lot more curious as to what may be in store next season. As it stands right now, aside from the soon-to-be daddy quotient, I'm not sure whether I care what happens to him going forward.

But there was a silver lining: making amends with Harry.

And thank the heavens for that.

I never bought into this whole hold-a-grudge-against-dad thing that played out ridiculously for most of this season. And like any good parent - even if we're only talking about imagining one - Harry didn't give up on his son's rebellion. He stuck with him until the end - a valuable lesson Dearly Demented Daddy Dexter might want to make a note of.

But aside from the rather lackluster end to Dexter's journey this season, how about ol' Deb?

RIGHT ON!!!

How thrilled am I to see her a) earn her detective shield; b) get to still be with Anton; c) make peace with Lieutenant LaGuerta.

As disgruntled as I've been with Dexter, Miguel Prado and turning Rita into a know-nothing of a character (what the heck happened there?), Deb's storyline saved this season for me. Whether it was the on-again-off-again back and forth between her and Quinn (which actually made her a BETTER cop), the IA quandary or the uncertainty surrounding her feelings for Anton, I need to send Jennifer Carpenter flowers. If it weren't for her - and weren't for the writers continuing to explore her character - I'd have stopped watching. Soooo, contrary to Dexter, Deb's happy ending was one I could get behind - especially after two seasons of heartbreak and emotional turmoil.

What can I say, the poor girl was due.

And speaking of LaGuerta, I have to say I'm impressed to see her move beyond her tit-for-tat vendetta against Deb, actually grant her the promotion AND compliment her for not allowing work to sacrifice her personal life. Score points for LaGuerta, who, actually, earned the MOST points for me during this third season. She finally seemed to evolve past her political appointment as head of the squad and actually a) look like a good cop; b) look to be human; c) look to be able to do the right thing without screwing someone over in the process.

But by in large, I wasn't impressed with the third season. It ranks as my least favorite. But Dexter still does remain my favorite serial killer, and I'm willing to grant the show one off season (at least as it pertains to me).

But not two.

Fair warning for season four.

If you missed any of the third season of Dexter, check out the official Dexter Web site to catch up.

Friday, December 12, 2008

Afternoon De-'Lights'

Oops!  That's the first word that comes to mind when I think about Coach Taylor's unfortunate discovery at Saracen's house.  I'm not a parent, but I can imagine that the moment you find out that your daughter isn't your little girl anymore is an emotional one.  Finding it out by walking in on her and her boyfriend (who happens to be on the team you coach) is about as emotionally disturbing as it gets as a parent.  On the other side, I am a daughter and I was incredibly embarrassed for Julie.  Thus, I felt for both Coach Taylor and Jules.  Luckily, Tami saved the day with that kickass talk towards the end.  And once again, Connie Britton broke my heart (she's a very close second to Kristen Bell who always managed to break my heart as Veronica Mars) as she wrapped her head around the realization that her little girl had crossed into some serious adult territory.  The weight of the moment was all over her face, and when she finally broke down, I was very moved.  And remember I'm not a parent.  I also thought that Coach Taylor's controlled response to Matt out on the porch was well done.  You could feel the sweat on Matt's brow and the butterflies in his stomach.  And Coach Taylor's inner anger was palpable too.  Just a nicely done story line.

Like most people, I've read The Giving Tree.  And like most people, I sobbed at the end.  So, I found Landry's parallel between the story and his relationship with Tyra to be very fitting.  Tyra is selfish (like most teenage girls) and she does take advantage of Landry's feelings for her.  Plus, she's too bent on the bad boy type to see that the greatest guy is right in front of her.  But, I'm not giving up hope that she will come to discover the truth.  Until she does, she should stay away from Landry.  She doesn't deserve him yet.  But, I love Tyra, so I'm rooting for her to get things together, wake up and smell the college coffee, and become a better version of herself -- one that knows a good thing when she sees it.  

Elsewhere, I felt bad for Lyla.  She was just talking about going to Vanderbilt (a PRIVATE school that isn't cheap) and now she learns that daddy lost all of the college funds on a bad real estate deal.  To make matters worse, he goes and gets into a brawl at The Landing Strip, winds up in jail, goes to court and learns that he's going to have to pay The Landing Strip $30,000 and he's broke.  And now, Lyla's gone.  At least Buddy Garrity still has Panther football.  If he didn't, I might start to worry about him.

Friday Night Lights is all-new and commercial-free Wednesday nights on DirecTV's 101. The third season will be seen in its entirety early next year on NBC.

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Few PTR Faves in 'Globes' Noms

By LillyKat
PTR Senior Staff Writer


Well, we can't win 'em all.

Or nominate 'em all.

This year's Golden Globes Nominees are decidedly less PTR-favorish than last year. Our girl Kyra Sedgwick still gets a nod for her fantastic work on The Closer ; and, Michael C. Hall is nominated for his work on Dexter (the show also earns a nod for best drama). Other than that, not a whole lot as it pertains to our PTR Faves.

But hey, no writer's strike to cancel the ceremony this year.

Side note: Extra coolness that Shirley Maclaine is nominated for her role in the mini-series, Coco Chanel. She. Rocked. It.

Second side note: Good to see Debra Messing up for The Starter Wife, too. Have missed her being on television since Will & Grace went off the air.

Winners of the 66th Annual Golden Globes Awards will be announced at the annual red carpet shindig of a ceremony, which will be held at the Beverly Hills Hilton on January 11, 2009 and air at 8 p.m. EST on NBC.


The main television nominees:


BEST TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA

a. DEXTER (SHOWTIME)
b. HOUSE (FOX)
c. IN TREATMENT (HBO)
d. MAD MEN (AMC)
e. TRUE BLOOD (HBO)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA

a. SALLY FIELD – BROTHERS AND SISTERS
b. MARISKA HARGITAY –LAW AND ORDER: SPECIAL VICTIMS UNIT
c. JANUARY JONES – MAD MEN
d. ANNA PAQUIN – TRUE BLOOD
e. KYRA SEDGWICK – THE CLOSER

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA

a. GABRIEL BYRNE – IN TREATMENT
b. MICHAEL C. HALL – DEXTER
c. JON HAMM – MAD MEN
d. HUGH LAURIE – HOUSE
e. JONATHAN RHYS MEYERS – THE TUDORS

BEST TELEVISION SERIES – COMEDY OR MUSICAL

a. 30 ROCK (NBC)
b. CALIFORNICATION (SHOWTIME)
c. ENTOURAGE (HBO)
d. THE OFFICE (NBC)
e. WEEDS (SHOWTIME)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES – COMEDY OR MUSICAL

a. CHRISTINA APPLEGATE – SAMANTHA WHO?
b. AMERICA FERRERA – UGLY BETTY
c. TINA FEY – 30 ROCK
d. DEBRA MESSING – THE STARTER WIFE
e. MARY-LOUISE PARKER – WEEDS

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES – COMEDY OR MUSICAL

a. ALEC BALDWIN – 30 ROCK
b. STEVE CARELL – THE OFFICE
c. KEVIN CONNOLLY – ENTOURAGE
d. DAVID DUCHOVNY – CALIFORNICATION
e. TONY SHALHOUB – MONK

BEST MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

a. A RAISIN IN THE SUN (ABC)
b. BERNARD AND DORIS (HBO
c. CRANFORD (PBS)
d. JOHN ADAMS (HBO)
e. RECOUNT (HBO)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

a. JUDI DENCH – CRANFORD
b. CATHERINE KEENER – AN AMERICAN CRIME
c. LAURA LINNEY – JOHN ADAMS
d. SHIRLEY MACLAINE – COCO CHANEL
e. SUSAN SARANDON – BERNARD AND DORIS

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

a. RALPH FIENNES – BERNARD AND DORIS
b. PAUL GIAMATTI – JOHN ADAMS
c. KEVIN SPACEY – RECOUNT
d. KIEFER SUTHERLAND – 24: REDEMPTION
e. TOM WILKINSON – RECOUNT

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A SERIES, MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

a. EILEEN ATKINS – CRANFORD
b. LAURA DERN – RECOUNT
c. MELISSA GEORGE – IN TREATMENT
d. RACHEL GRIFFITHS – BROTHERS AND SISTERS
e. DIANNE WIEST – IN TREATMENT

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A SERIES, MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

a. NEIL PATRICK HARRIS – HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER
b. DENIS LEARY – RECOUNT
c. JEREMY PIVEN – ENTOURAGE
d. BLAIR UNDERWOOD – IN TREATMENT
e. TOM WILKINSON – JOHN ADAMS


For a full list of nominees, visit GoldenGlobes.org.

Tuesday, December 09, 2008

'Chronicles' Goes Back to the Future

'Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles' Returns for Season 2By LillyKat
PTR Senior Staff Writer


Wax on, wax off.

Forgive me if I am thinking of the infamous line from the Karate Kid film, but this is how I've felt watching Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles for the first part of the season: one episode is spot on, the next not so much; then it's on again for two, then not.

This week's ep: on.

Why? These are the kind of urgent, fight the future here and now eps that seem to be missing more often than they seem to appearing in season two. Compared to the non-stop flow of the first season, we're at a snail's pace right now.

As such, I've lamented the fact that the show is working off one too many tangents (and dead ends) this season. It seems to have lost itself in the minutiae of trying to chronicle way too much rather than sticking with the basic premise of fighting the rise of Skynet and the machines in the here and now WITHOUT confusing the heck out of the audience in the process.

Last night's ep seemed to get back to those basics and return a sense of urgency to the mission at hand. It also happened to be pretty darn funny, with the Fields family providing some interesting banter as they try to process the end of the world at the hands of cyborgs.

But here's the interesting part: John Connor was NO WHERE to be seen in the episode.

And the ep actually seemed to work BETTER WITHOUT him.

Ouch.

Worse, I didn't even notice John was missing until the ep was over.

Double ouch.

You know what I did notice? How much I've come to like Brian Austin Green's (BAG) Derek Reese.

Compared to the always mopey/uncertain/needs-to-grow-a-pair John, Derek is far more interesting and compelling to watch. There seems to be an infinite set of possibilities to his character that we aren't left "wondering" about. As in, the endless John conundrum of do I/don't I/why me/what do I do nonsense. With Derek, everything is much more lively - and certain - given he has come from the future and/or knows exactly what needs to be done in the here and now to fight against judgment day.

And in a story like last night's, both present and future are nicely tied together: the team is saving an unborn child who is going to have an anomaly in her blood that will help develop a cure in the future to fight against a plague that has taken over the resistance fighters.

Plain. Simple. Easy to understand. No ridiculous gray area. No absurd time travels. No touchy feely therapy sessions.

Also, with Derek, he's able to have a compassionate side but without this unending sense of wavering, moping, wondering, wanting to be a teenager, blah, blah, blah nonsense that is just getting to be such a drag with John. This is not a slam against Thomas Dekker. But whether it was intentional or not, BAG has become a stronger character, a more compelling character and a much more interesting character to watch.

As such, I don't know if the writers are just stuck with a kind of a one-trick pony character in John, or he only works as a strong character in the future, or they just don't know how to expand off the teenage wanderlust. Whatever the issue, they might want to stick with the formula of last night.

It definitely waxes on.

The fall finale of Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles airs next Monday at 8 p.m. on FOX. The show will return February 13th in its new Friday night time slot. You can watch full episodes online. Visit the Official Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles Web site to catch up (or re-watch!)

Never Con a Conner

The entire time I was watching this week's episode of Chuck, I kept thinking that the Sarah and her criminal father story line was so familiar.  There was just something about a daughter working in law enforcement having a dad who has been in and out of prison and then returns and winds up helping his daughter on a huge federal case that just rang a few bells.  I was having deja vu so strongly, I could feel it in my Bones!  Yes, Sarah and her prodigal father was very reminiscent of Dr. Brennan and her father Max Keenan.  And yet, it was different enough that it still managed to surprise me, like, when her father took the money and ran (or rather, hid the money in Chuck's account or as he said, "placed a $1 million bet").  Never con a con-man.  And yet, I would have a hard time turning my father in the way Sarah did at the end (of course, her dad is a good con-man and managed to side-step the cops for now).  Not an easy thing to do, even if it is the right thing.

This show is just so darn clever!  It reminds me of Psych with its mix of unmatched clever-ness and silliness.  I LOVED the scene where Sarah and co. transformed that high-powered office into a fake headquarters for the fictional Lichtenstein Enterprises.  And, of course, the hilarious scene that followed with Chuck pretending to be German was classic!  In the end, Sarah's father pointed out the obvious: Chuck loves Sarah and would do anything for her.  Like Bones, everyone around the two characters can see it, but those in the middle cannot.  These two are perfect for each other just like Booth and Bones.  But, the charm of this show (like Bones) is in the chase and the (hopefully) endless question, "Will they or won't they?" Oh, I love this show.  And I'm so psyched for the Christmas episode next week!

If you missed this week's episode ("Chuck Versus the Delorean"), you can watch it for free at Hulu.com.

Monday, December 08, 2008

'Dexter' Does Prado

'Dexter' is back for Season 3By LillyKat
PTR Senior Staff Writer


Psych.

That summed up our whole Dexter hooded/bound/captured-in-the-trunk routine that we thought was going to be so ominous last week for Dex. Turns out it was a "pretend" kidnap on the part of the squad to get him to his bachelor party.

Psych.

Whatever.

The good news is that out of that whole gotcha moment, Dexter confesses to Harry that he blew it with Miguel Prado. Really, Dex? You don't say. Ironic Harry actually confesses himself to being proud of Dex for trying to have a "friend."

Can't say I agree, but that's OK.

MIGUEL PRADO IS DEAD!!!

YAY!!!

Finally.

Freakin' finally.

I wish I could say good riddance, but then we wouldn't have a season finale next week, would we?

As if we need more Miguel Prado from BEYOND the grave, or some sort of last laugh on his elevator ride down to hell, it seems as though the last of the psycho Prado brothers, Ramon, was hired by Miguel as a bodyguard to "protect" him from Dexter given things had gone considerably south with their BFF routine. Now that Miguel turns up dead, well ... should it come as any surprise Ramon is going to take that a little personally next week? Or put Dexter in his crosshairs?

Uh, no.

Hat trick, anyone?

I feel like Dexter is going to have to off all three of the Prado brothers before this season is through. Needless to say, next week will begin another tap dance on the part of Dexter Morgan to look cool while in the line of fire. Have to say I'm hoping the use of the Tree Trimmer killer's MO as cover for offing Miguel WILL hold up. And yet, is it bad that I think we're going to have some sort of closing scene straight out of Carrie, with Miguel's hand reaching up from the grave trying to pull Dex down?

Just. Go. Away. Miguel.

On the Deb front this week, I am SO bummed she and Anton appear to be over. Not. Cool. So much intensity, passion and genuine you-got-me-I-got-you thing happening that I'm rolling my eyes at ANY suggestion there is going to be a Deb/Quinn hook-up.

Seriously?

As much as I like Quinn as Deb's partner on the job, I'm not feeling him for partner off the job.

And for the umpteenth time, can I just say Jennifer Carpenter rocks. The scene where Dex is forced to confess to her that her perfect vision of Harry shouldn't be so perfect given he stepped out on mom with one of his CI's ... genius. I was completely transfixed by her expression - the transition from irritation, to shock, to pain to having to walk in and interview Anton.

You go, girl. Can we nominate her for something - Golden Globe? Emmy? Something?

And am I the only one who thinks the wedding is NOT going to happen? Like, some strange event is going to occur that prevents it from going on? And is it bad that I actually prefer Rita and Dexter UN-married?

Normally, I'm so amped to see how the season ends. This year, I'm just kind of waiting for it to be over.

The third season finale of Dexter airs next Sunday at 9 p.m. on Showtime. Check out the official Dexter Web site for the inside scoop on the series.

'Crusoe' Comes Close

NBC's New Action Adventure Series 'Crusoe'By LillyKat
PTR Senior Staff Writer


So close and yet so far.

(cue Enchanted theme song)

Part of me did want to believe Crusoe would get off the island this week, but the realist TV viewer in me knew that'd be the end of the show. Since we still have about seven episodes left in our 13-part adventure series, we're still stranded!

Yay!

Okay, maybe not so much - especially with Olivia (Oliver) now sailing back to England given a) the mutineer ship IS fixed, and b) Captain Taylor IS reinstated.

Bummer.

I am becoming such the fan of the budding relationship between Crusoe and Olivia. Not only does she balance out the testosterone, she's now saved Crusoe's life twice given she took a shot this week defending the tree house against mutineer captain wanna-be Atkins.

The good news: Olivia survives her wound (after some clever first aid on the part of Friday - fire ants as stitches anyone?)

The better news: Atkins men turn on him after some clever negotiating by Crusoe, and thus, Taylor is fully reinstated; all aboard!

The bad news: the deal to sail Crusoe back to England under Taylor's command didn't involve any details as it pertains to Friday's welfare.

The worse news: Taylor has plans to sell Friday as a slave.

We know Crusoe isn't going to let that happen, and so he waves buh-bye to the opportunity to sail home. But not before Olivia does some nifty negotiating of her own, killing the drunken surgeon who NO ONE wanted aboard anyways, takes his place and threatens to stay on island with our castaways if Taylor doesn't let them go.

Go Olivia!

And yet, one wonders if sailing home is going to be a good thing for Crusoe. I'm thinking the poor guy is going to have serious culture shock. He is, essentially, six years behind the rest of the world, and the world he left was clearly out to screw him over.

Royally.

We learned in our flashbacks this week that Blackthorn hired an assassin to take out Crusoe right before he set sail for the New World so as to gain control of his children; and, all of his assets have been seized by his evil bro' in law given Crusoe's investment didn't cover his liabilities when his ship was taken, which left his beloved Susannah and children to be taken in by none other than Blackthorn himself.

Ugh.

I'd have to say living out his days in peace and harmony with Friday and Olivia on the island doesn't seem like such a bad thing at this point.

Curious: the always prepared Crusoe drafted a letter, which was to be given to Susannah should anything have happened to him sailing back to England with Taylor. Since he's not making the voyage, he gives this letter to Olivia to handle on his behalf. Now, there were some nice moments between the two of them as they agreed they could've had something together in another life, so I'm wondering if she will forward the letter on to Susannah or figure out a way to have a life with Crusoe ...?

I confess I wouldn't mind the latter.

Stay tuned.

**PROGRAMMING NOTE: The next new episode of Crusoe airs in two weeks, on December 20th.

New episodes of Crusoe air Saturdays at 8 p.m. on NBC. Visit NBC's Official Crusoe Web site for the inside scoop on the series. The site is awfully cool - and that's not just the Pirates fangirl in me talking.

Tyra Learns More Tough Lessons

Everyone has a Tyra in their life.  You know the girl - turns lots of heads, but always falls for the wrong guy, dumps the super sweet guy, and continually makes the wrong decision.  It seems like every time she lands on her feet, she stumbles once again.  She's frustrating to be friends with because you want the best for her, but she keeps going down the wrong path.  Yes, we all know a Tyra.  I think this is why this story line is so compelling.  I never know where it's going, but I know it isn't anywhere good.  I suppose the signs were all there about Cash, especially once he and Tyra took their relationship on the road with the rodeo circuit.  His argument with the shady characters, his outburst after placing second and his violent shove when he forced Tyra to sit back down at that extremely sketchy road-side bar had numerous red flags, but it was his outburst when the Taylors arrived to rescue Tyra that really had me concerned for Tyra.  Why do these psychos always start off as the sweetest guys in the world??!!  I hope Tyra talks to Mrs. T once she calms down.  She's going to need a few counseling sessions.

Is it completely wrong that I was clapping when Lyla left Tim's sorry a** on the side of the road?  That boy needs to learn a lesson or two.  Her stunt did seem to have some impact.  He met with the recruiter, filled out the paperwork, and basically landed himself in college (and he's the first Riggins to accomplish that feat).  And how funny was that girls' night scene with Lyla and Mindy?  They're completely bonded in their frustration and love for the Riggins boys!  I can't really imagine Lyla and Tim lasting past high school (especially since she's planning to leave Texas for Vanderbilt in Nashville, TN), and I'm completely OK with that.  In fact, I'd be completely OK with them breaking up, like, yesterday, but that's just me.  

How does Matt Saracen: Wide Receiver sound?  The former QB was lighting it up in the WR position this week!  I was cheering for him.  It can't be easy to be warming the bench after winning the Panthers a state championship just two short seasons ago.  Go Matt!  I am really dreading the end of this season because I'm so afraid it's going to be the end of this show and I just can't handle another awesome show succumbing to the crazy ratings system.  I'm still mourning Everwood and Veronica Mars.

Friday Night Lights is all-new and commercial-free Wednesday nights on DirecTV's 101. The third season will be seen in its entirety early next year on NBC.

Friday, December 05, 2008

TNT Goes for (and Gives) 'Leverage'

'Leverage' on TNTBy LillyKat
PTR Senior Staff Writer


Got Leverage?

And $100,000?

This Sunday, TNT delves into the action drama series realm with the premiere of its new original series, Leverage, starring Oscar® winner Timothy Hutton. The series follows a team of thieves, hackers and grifters who act as modern-day Robin Hoods, taking revenge against those not-so-nice folks who use power and wealth to victimize others. Hutton stars as Nate Ford, a former insurance investigator whose son died as a result of corporate greed, paving the way for his new profession. The rest of the highly skilled Leverage team includes: Parker (Beth Riesgraf), an expert thief; Alec Hardison (Aldis Hodge), a specialist in Internet and computer fraud; Eliot Spencer (Christian Kane), a so-called “retrieval specialist” who has no problems taking out gangs of henchmen; and Sophie Devereaux (Gina Bellman), a grifter who was probably an actress in her other life given her ability to remain cool under pressure (particularly during those difficult scams).

But how would you like to win $100,000?

Beginning Sunday, viewers will have a chance to win $100,000 by helping the Leverage team get payback against a double-crosser. The multi-part “Get Ready to Get Even” online game (1) will launch at LeverageHQ.com in conjunction with the commercial-free premiere. The game involves the Leverage team’s attempt to plant $100,000 in bribe money in the office of a corrupt executive. Their plan goes awry, however, when they are double-crossed and forced into hiding, leaving the money stashed in the trunk of a Hyundai Genesis (2). Game players are encouraged to complete 11 missions over the course of the series to recover the cash and solve the mystery of who double-crossed the team. Those who complete a mission will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win $100,000 in prize money.

Soooo, go get yourself some Leverage.

The series premiere of Leverage airs Sunday, December 7th at 10 p.m. on TNT, then moves into its regular timeslot, Tuesdays at 10 p.m. (ET/PT), beginning December 9th. Visit the Leverage Web site for the inside scoop on the series.

- 1 NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States and District of Columbia, who are 18 years of age or older. Sweepstakes ends 2/25/09. Void where prohibited. Subject to complete official rules available at www.LeverageHQ.com or by mail to “Leverage $100,000 Mission Sweepstakes Rules”, c/o LeadDog Marketing Group, 159 W. 25th Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10001. SPONSOR: TNT Originals, Inc.

- 2 No money is hidden. Search for money is for entertainment purposes only; all searching must be conducted online at www.LeverageHQ.com through game play.)

Wednesday, December 03, 2008

'Fringe' Transportation

You know, I often watch this show baffled that the same man behind Lost is also behind this series.  They are just so drastically different.  Fringe is a modern-day X-Files while Lost is literature and mythology working together while stranded on a mysterious, remote island.  And then it hit me.  The man (J.J. Abrams) behind Fringe was also behind another series that centered around a strong female government agent fighting rogue groups with quasi-ties to the government.  Her name: Sydney Bristow.  Her show: Alias.  It all makes so much more sense now.  J.J. has become so synonymous with Lost that I had completely forgotten his earlier work and how many parallels can be seen between it and Fringe.  This week's episode really reminded me of the former spy thriller.  Maybe it was the international flair, the crazy time machine, Olivia becoming the target, that creepy guy in prison who benefited from the time machine or all of the above -- but something jogged my memory about Syd and co.  Let's hope Fringe doesn't create a huge pink spinning cloud of craziness.  Of course if it did, the special effects would be slightly better now.

So, four former military guys meet at the VA hospital when they start playing a friendly game of chess.  They get recruited to steal Walter's safety deposit boxes because those boxes contain the parts of a time machine he built to save his son.  How do they break into the banks?  Not with a clever mask and a shotgun, but by breaking the laws of physics and moving through the walls.  Once they have all of the pieces, they build the machine, head out to a remote air field and presto!  Creepy German Prison man is out of Germany and in the abandoned air field.  Good News/Bad News:  Walter really is a genius and his crazy experiments work, BUT... Creepy German Prison man is out and, we can only imagine, ready to wreak all sorts of havoc.  Oh yeah, there's also this little matter of Olivia being captured.  That can't be good.  Looks like we're going to have to wait until January to find out how not good.

Fringe airs Tuesday nights on Fox. If you missed last night's episode, watch it for free at Fox.com. Photo courtesy Fox.

Tuesday, December 02, 2008

Cold Case 'Chronicles'

'Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles' Returns for Season 2By LillyKat
PTR Senior Staff Writer


TO: Detective Lilly Rush
Philadelphia Police Department
Homicide
Central Division

Dear Detective Rush:

I hear you are the best in the country at investigating cold case homicides, so I'm writing to let you know there is a terminator machine in Los Angeles who would make a great addition to your squad. She'd help solve every cold job boxed up in your department's basement (and storage facilities), and you'd never have to worry about getting shot again. As an added bonus, she can be pre-programmed to be your BFF so that you can talk out your ever-growing list of issues (believe me, I know). She's a little dense, requires some fine tuning, but all in all, a lot of potential. Her name is Cameron. Please inquire.

Kindest regards,
Sarah J. Connor



Last night, I wasn't sure if I was watching Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles or Cold Case Terminator?

Now, I'm not going to complain because a) there was lots of Cameron (and thus, Summer Glau - never a bad thing); b) fantastic Cold Case-esque production value for the 1920s flashbacks (and anyone who knows me knows my favorite episodes of Cold Case have always centered on the oldest-themed eps - "Best Friends" anyone?); c) cutie-pie exchanges between Cam and her temporary BFF Eric (our wheelchair-bound night shift clerk at county records, who had obviously spent more time bonding with Cam over donuts and late night perusing than was shown on screen ... awww).

But seriously ... I really didn't want to watch Cold Case disguised as a T:SCC episode nor did I really need to see Cam doing her best impression of Lil' trying to solve a cold job mixture of a homicide/missing person case. The roundabout way in which it was tied to the future world destruction compliments of Skynet seemed an odd stretch at best. Some T-888 ends up in the wrong place/wrong time circa the 1920s, but eventually ends up in a wall in a newly renovated building circa 2008 whereby he's on "Pause" waiting to assassinate a future governor in 2010 ...?

'kay.

Time travel much?

And if all that wasn't a CC/T:SCC crossover in the making: the episode was directed by Holly Dale - long time Cold Case director alum. And yet, I will say Holly was indeed the woman for this ep - her time over on CC served her well in setting up the flashback sequences. But this was supposed to be T:SCC, not CC. As such, I felt like I was watching a cop procedural.

Where was our reintroduction of Cromartie as AI John Henry that was so cleverly set up at the end of last week's ep?

Or the pursuit / investigation / interest in the fact Cromartie's body IS missing?

Hello? Is this on?

That said, I liked the ep, but I couldn't help but think it came out of left field.

Again.

And I'm not sure that's a good thing.

Again.

While these kind of eps are fine and good for a die-hard fans like myself, I still am feeling like this isn't exactly what people signed up for in terms of watching this show - very slow, very deliberate, very intricate, very sort of WTF-get-on-with-it. And with last week's record low viewership (something in the bargain basement of four million viewers), things are looking a bit ominous IN SPITE of the fact FOX picked the show up for the full season.

Hmmmm.

And as much as I loved the Reilly character, I'm ready for her to be terminated. She's annoying. She's a nag. She's getting in the way. She's making John look like a moron. I'll buy the distraction, let - John - be - a - teenager - thing to a point, but we're now past it. John popping his cherry at Makeout Point is, like, so Gossip Girl. We're saving the world, here, people!!!!

The fall finale is scheduled for December 15th (that's in two weeks), then the show goes on hiatus until February where it will reappear in its new die a slow death timeslot. With what's been on display thus far this season - half-good, half-not-so-much - I'm officially starting to get worried.

New episodes of Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles air Mondays at 8 p.m. on FOX. You can also watch full episodes online. Visit the Official Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles Web site to catch up (or re-watch!)

'Heroes' Ends its PTR Reign

OMG!!  They killed Elle (or rather, Sylar did)!  I don't know whether to be totally bummed or totally happy.  Bummed because this means no more Kristen Bell on Heroes or happy because I'm finally free of this show!  It has been rough this season (and not all that good last season), but I was hanging on out of loyalty to Kristen.  Well, no more.  So unless something HUGE happens and the show completely turns itself around, this will be PTR's last post on Heroes.  I will be refocusing all of that Heroes energy on Chuck instead.  

I didn't think for a minute that Claire was dead.  And then when they showed Sylar die as well, I started to suspect that once the eclipse passed, powers would return and those who had "died" during it, would come back to life.  Unfortunately (or is that fortunately?), this didn't apply to Elle since Sylar killed her after the eclipse had passed and their powers had returned.  The writing was on the wall for this one from the beginning.  When you lie down with dogs...

Adios Heroes.  I will miss you, but it will be the season one you and not the way- too- wrapped- up- in- your- own- mythology shell of your former self that you have become as of late.  Call me if you turn things around and return to the show you once were a couple of seasons ago.  I won't be waiting by the phone, though.

Monday, December 01, 2008

Politics As Usual for this 'Case'


NOTE: There's nothing quite like returning home from a great Thanksgiving trip filled with food, fun and family to find a nice soggy basement courtesy of a neighbor's leaky water heater. Needless to say, I intended to have this entry posted much sooner than now. BUT, I'm running very behind so the best I can do at this point is "better late than never."

After far too many months of campaigns, ads, speeches, debates, and mudslinging -- the last thing I wanted to do was sit down and watch an episode centered around politics (with some not so subtle references to the all too recent presidential campaign). But, that is exactly what I was forced to do this week with Cold Case. This episode simply showcased what we all already know and that is why so many people don't get involved in the world of politics: it's a dirty, dirty business and some of its participants find themselves in the hands of some very unsavory characters. I admired Dexter Collins and his determination to run a clean campaign free of aforementioned unsavory characters and their "street money." He was fighting the good fight and losing because the machine was just too big to overtake. When he finally got the upper hand and used those embarrassing photos as leverage to keep Boone from leaking an incident on his juvenile record, one of his own supporters shot him on the street for succumbing to Boone's tremendous power. It seems Warren misunderstood what exactly was going on between Dex and Boone.

While the episode had some strong moments, I felt that it overall missed the mark. I enjoyed Stillman's determination in the face of tremendous political obstacles and I thought that his interrogation with Boone was one of the best of the season thus far. I also enjoyed Scotty and Vera's scene with Frankie. Although, I have to agree with Vera: Scotty's little prank was just wrong. Poor Vera! I'm liking Lilly's secret quest, but it is painfully slow-moving. I might lose interest if they drag this thing out any further. This week, she placed some letters in Paul Cooper's mail box. Question: Why is this Paul character always having some sort of party whenever Lil stops by to play Peeping Tomette? Perhaps, she should try knocking on his door because he seems to have quite the social life. Slow-moving story line aside, this episode just didn't measure up. Perhaps if they hadn't tried so hard to make the all-too-obvious comparisons to a fresh presidential election (and I don't know, stuck to what they do best instead of overtly crossing into the current political scene) or if they had developed Dex the person more than Dex the politician, this episode would have shone a bit brighter for me. I didn't dislike it, but it wasn't as strong as I know the show can be. Call it a tie. CC moves to 9-0-1 on the season.

Screencaps courtesy RichE.

The Real 'Dexter' Stands Up

Dexter
By LillyKat
PTR Senior Staff Writer


Can we just start the entire third season of Dexter over from ...oh, let's say the third episode and cut to NOW ...?

Seriously.

The real Dexter finally showed up after about seven episodes of Barney and Friends ... er, I mean Miguel Prado's My New BFF ... er, whatever.

Last night (aptly titled "Go Your Own Way" - cue Fleetwood Mac song) was the first episode I've watched in weeks that felt like something from the previous seasons. And yet, I can't help but wonder why in the world it has taken THIS LONG to get here, or why we didn't just have enraged, can't-be-reasoned-with Miguel as Dex's nemesis all along WITHOUT the so obvious disguise of BFF-ness - especially if Miguel is in cahoots with the Tree Trimmer Killer?

Like, did I miss something, here?

Isn't this what we loved about the show from the beginning: the tit-for-tat nemesis angle? the outwit / outsmart / survival routine that allows Dex be the Dark Defender? his struggle to identify, fit in, blend and cope with all-things good and evil?

Now, we've got two episodes to cram it all in.

WTF?

We recall when another PTR Fave show (Cold Case) crammed WAY too much into the final four episodes of the fourth season. Um, yeah ... I believe we're STILL trying to clean up that mess. For this viewer, the series never recovered from that boneheaded creative blunder nor did it ever deal with all the issues that arose from it on screen.

There is such a a thing as too much, too quick.

I have no idea if Dexter is now poised to make the same mistake. They've drawn out this Miguel v. Dexter thing to the point of boredom, and it bothers me the writers are now only giving us the meaty - and far more interesting - bits at the end. And I'm not talking about stacking storylines for a season finale. No, I'm talking about eight episodes of filler nothingness that we could all have done without.

What is this ... a procedural?

Did Jimmy Smits only want to get crazy for three episodes?

I don't know. All I can say is I wish Dark Defender Dex and Psycho Miguel would've started their smackdown earlier. Perhaps it would've spared us from seeing Rita reduced to a dumb blond, Dex reduced to thinking he really can squeeze in nine holes of golf and lunch on the veranda in between blood splatters, and a show that used to be so compelling with the most complex of characters fall into ho-hum mediocrity.

And yet, I am STILL watching, I am STILL hoping, and I am STILL curious as to how this third season ends.

New episodes of Dexter air Sunday at 9 p.m. on Showtime. Check out the official Dexter Web site for the inside scoop on the series.