PTR Reveals the Best Episode of the Season!

We have made it through the summer-long countdown!  This can mean only one thing:  it's time to reveal the #1 Best Episode of the Season!! For the final time, here's a look at the rules for this year's winners. We ended up with 28 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2009 and June 2010. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, PTR will reveal a few each week all summer. Since this was a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, we revealed a few each week all summer. Before we get to numbers 3-1, here's a quick review of numbers 28-4 after the jump.

The Countdown Enters the Home Stretch

The finish line is in sight this week as we wind down our summer-long countdown of the Best Episodes of the Season!  Before we get to the #1 episode next week, we have three awesome episodes to tied you over.  But before we get to them, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. We ended up with 28 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2009 and June 2010. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, PTR will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 6-4.

The Countdown Gets Emotional

Single digits, Y'all!!!  That's right, this week on the summer-long countdown of the Best Episodes of the Season we finally hit the single digits with three episodes that were heavy on the emotion.  But before we get to them, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. We ended up with 28 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2009 and June 2010. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, PTR will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 9-7.

The Countdown Reaches the Top 10

We are more than halfway through the summer-long countdown of the Best Episodes of the Season.  This week, there are three episodes with some pretty profound moments.  You know the kind -- the ones  you have to rewind your DVR to watch a few times before what just transpired sinks in.  But before we get to them, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. We ended up with 28 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2009 and June 2010. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, PTR will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 12-10.

The Countdown Dips into the Top 15

It's time to crack the Top 15 on the summer-long countdown of the Best Episodes of the Season.  This week, we focus on a hilarious scene involving a Storm Trooper, a trip to the wild west and a thrilling chase scene.  But before we get to them, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. We ended up with 28 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2009 and June 2010. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, PTR will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 15-13.

The Countdown Continues

So far, the summer-long countdown of the Best Episodes of the Season has showcased thrills and emotionally-charged moments, but this week, things are taking a more profound turn.  These episodes certainly gave us something to think about well after the closing credits.  But before we get to them, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. We ended up with 28 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2009 and June 2010. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, PTR will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 18-16.

The Countdown Intensifies

This week, the summer-long countdown of the Best Episodes of the Season cracks the Top 20 with more fabulous outings.  But before we get to them, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. We ended up with 28 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2009 and June 2010. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, PTR will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 21-19.

The Countdown Gets Moving

Last week, PTR kicked off the summer-long countdown of the Best Episodes of the Season with FOUR great episodes.  This week, we're back to the countdown's usual 3 episodes/week format and we have three fabulous outings that moved us (almost to tears at times).  But before we get to them, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. We ended up with 28 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2009 and June 2010. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, PTR will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 24-22.

Ready, Set, COUNTDOWN!

This season, we made awesome new friends, but sadly, we also said goodbye to some old ones.  It was an uneven season that gave us a ho-hum first half and a kickass second.  There were ups and downs and laughs and tears and overall, this recently concluded season was strong.  But the '09-'10 season is wrapped and in the books, so this means PTR's popular Best Episodes of the Season summer-long countdown is just beginning. PTR has come up with another great list. Before we get to that, though, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. We ended up with 28 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2009 and June 2010. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, PTR will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 28-25.

PTR Reveals the Best Episode of the Season!

Well, we have made it through the summer-long countdown, which means that it is time to reveal the #1 Best Episode of the Season. For the final time, here's a look at the rules for this year's winners. LillyKat and I ended up with 33 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2008 and June 2009. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this was a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, we revealed a few each week all summer. Before we get to numbers 3-1, here's a quick review of #33-4:

33. “Friends With Benefits” – My Name is Earl
32. “Gus Walks into a Bank” – Psych
31. “Chuck Versus the Colonel” – Chuck
30. “Private Eyes” – My Boys
29. “Apocalypse… Now?” – Medium
28. “Intervention” – How I Met Your Mother
27. “Tuesday the 17th” – Psych
26. “Officer Down” – Cold Case
25. "A Pretty Girl in a Leotard" – Damages
24. “Inside Probe” – My Name is Earl
23. "Mr. Ferguson is Ill Today" – Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles
22. “New York, New York” – Friday Night Lights
21. "Hey! Mr Pibb." – Damages
20. “The Deadliest Ice Road” – Ice Road Truckers
19. "I Lied, Too" - Damages
18. "The Final Hour" – Deadliest Catch
17. “Zebras” – Law & Order: SVU
16. “Tomorrow Blues” – Friday Night Lights
15. "Mortal Men" – Deadliest Catch
14. “Unleashed” – Fringe
13. "Heart of a Cop" – Saving Grace
12. “Yanks in the UK” – Bones
11. "I Believe In Angels" - Saving Grace
10. “The Incident” – Lost
9. “The Double Death of the Dearly Departed” – Bones
8. "Cherry Bomb" – The Closer
7. “The Long Blue Line/Into the Blue” – Cold Case
6. "Allison From Palmdale" – Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles
5. “My Finale” – Scrubs
4. “Right Time, Right Place” – How I Met Your Mother

And now, the Top 3 episodes of the season...

3: "Adam Raised a Cain" - Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles
Just when I thought T:SCC couldn't wow me anymore, couldn't leave me with goosebumps, couldn't get me to take back all of my WTF-is-wrong-with-this-show comments I had made during much of the middle of the second (and final) season (which bored most of us loyal viewers to death), the T:SCC folks delivered "Adam Raised A Cane." Though not the series finale (it was actually the second to last episode), it left me feeling fulfilled and proud to have been a T:SCC fan. Just when I thought they had forgotten how to create that sense of mystery, drama, sentimentality, excitement, action and suspense that made me love the show so much throughout the first season, "Adam Raised a Cain" did ALL this - and then some. Summer Glau's Cameron was kick arse, take charge and be definitive once again. The death of Brian Austin Green's Derek before I've even settled into the episode was just brilliant. No warning, no pomp and circumstance, no hoopla. It was so simply perfect and absolutely fitting to have this character go down doing exactly what he was sent here to do - protect John. Lena Headey's Sarah still did seem to have her own pair and was still willing to put the greater good of everyone above herself - no matter the weight of it, no matter its never-ending pursuit. Thomas Dekker finally owned up to having the true quiet leader strength of John Conner. The sacrifices he must make for that to happen weigh on him heavily, but no longer in such a dopey, emo, poor-me way. And no sacrifice is perhaps more poignant than with the death of yet another person close to him, or with the capture of his own mother - both of which he comes to terms. And little Mackenzie Brooke Smith's portryal Savannah Weaver stole the entire episode with an unbelievably brilliant, most amazingly nuanced performance that actors twice her age sometimes fail to do. The chemistry she shareed not only with Garret Dillahunt, but in character with John Henry, was just too.damn.good. Her duet with Garret that closed the episode haunted me for weeks. This episode did the one thing I had hoped the second half of the T:SCC season would do: give some closure, be complete, and send the show out with a wow and a bang. And it was this kind of episodes that reminded us all of what the show did when it was at its best. Written by Toni Graphia and directed by Charles Beeson. - LillyKat, PTR Senior Staff Writer

2: "Power of Attorney" - The Closer
This stellar hour of a PTR fave was so good, it was on both of our lists. So, we each wrote a few words about what made it so great.

LillyKat Says: The show delivered one of its legendary episodes with "Power of Attorney." We know the good folks at The Closer always manage to give us compelling cases each season, with a memorable bad guy (or two). Someone who gives Brenda Leigh Johnson a run for her money, someone who really gets to her and forces her hand. It can, at times, be a rarity given she is so good closing cases. But we crossed into legendary territory for the one she could NOT get in this ep. Billy Burke's portrayal of the sex offender defense attorney was just insanely-creepily-disturbingly-engrossingly good, second (or perhaps tied with) Jason O'Mara's Bill Croelick character. And given how long PTR has followed Cold Case, it's not a stretch to compare Burke to John Billingsley's portrayal of serial killer George Marks who was, essentially, Detective Lilly Rush's one true nemesis. Both detectives on both shows - so poised, in control and on their game in always getting their suspects - reduced to powerless bystanders. Both actresses on both shows - Kathryn Morris and Kyra Sedgwick - delivering one of their best performances. "Power of Attorney" left us waiting for the sequel - the rematch. When that happens, you know you're watching the best of the best.

TVFan Says:

You can always count on this show to turn out powerful, brilliant episodes, but this outing from last season might just be the series' most powerful to date. Brenda went head-to-head with a skilled attorney whose knowledge of criminal law allowed him to rape six women and murder a seventh and then walk right out of the police station without a charge against him. He used his own client as a scapegoat and Brenda's evidence against her and he did it in such a masterful and nefarious way that it had Major Crimes' and our heads spinning. Mostly, though, it has us still waiting for Brenda's next encounter with Stroh. Keep 'em wanting more -- that's good television. Written by Michael Alaimo and directed by Rick Wallace.

And now, after an entire summer of counting down episodes, we're finally up to the number one episode of the past season. Drum roll please....

1: "Hello, Goodbye" - Friday Night Lights
I'm pretty sure that out of all of the story lines on Friday Night Lights, the Brian "Smash" Williams story was the best written, consistently most emotional and all-around champion of the series. So, it comes as no surprise that its conclusion would stand out as this season's best episode. There were two moments in this episode that proved that this series is network television's best and left me completely in awe of its brilliance. The first occurred when Coach Taylor walked across the Texas A&M field and convinced the coach to allow Smash to try out. It was one of those moments when you have to fight the urge to leap out of your seat and give the writers, actors and every other person who works on this show a HUGE standing ovation. The second scene came at the very end when Smash finally got the word from A&M. My eyes welled up with tears of joy as he told his mother that he was going to college. What a payoff for all of his hard work, determination and disappointments along the way. Everything that he had to overcome post-knee injury and knowing how much this opportunity meant to him made it that much sweeter and cemented this episode's place at the top of this year's list. Written by David Hudgins and directed by Michael Waxman

Well, there you have it -- the complete list of PTR's Best Episodes of the Season! Do you agree? Disagree? Are there episodes that PTR left off the list? Leave us a comment with your thoughts on the final list. If you would like to take a closer look at numbers 33-4, click the "Best Episodes" link at the bottom of this post.

The Countdown Eyes the Finish Line

The finish line is in sight this week as we wind down our summer-long countdown of the Best Episodes of the Season! Before we get to this week's entries, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. LillyKat and I ended up with 33 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2008 and June 2009. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, we will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 6-4.

6: "Allison From Palmdale" - Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles
There is no denying my love of Summer Glau. There is no denying my love of her Cameron terminator. So when the T:SCC folks gave us "Allison From Palmdale," I once again died and went to Terminator heaven. The ep explained how Cameron came to be – her human inspirational blueprint, a one awesome Allison Young, part of John Conner's inner-circle in the future, captured by the machines to be copied, emulated. I didn't care that her chip went on the fritz so that she remembered the actual girl she was based on – her history, her human tendencies. It gave us a truly rare human moment of Cameron being Allison, having fun playing foosball, calling the mom who hadn’t given birth to her yet a la John meeting his baby toddler of a father in the first season. There is no denying this series would not have been what it was without Summer Glau and without Cameron. She impressed with each successive performance – and particularly in THIS performance. A human performance. We often take for granted just how good she is at not being human. The precision and conscious awareness to subdue every tick and twitch that she has forced herself – as an actress – to adhere to so as to remove every human element from what we see as Cameron, yet still maintain a remarkable sensitivity and bring a sense of humanity to Cameron. So. Darn. Good. And yet, we were treated to the complete opposite mindset in this ep. A girl on the run, trying to survive capture, interrogation and torture by the machines, telling us the raw truth of her life post-judgment day. I just can’t say enough about this ep - except to say thank you, Summer (and to put this ep just outside our Top 5). Written by Toni Graphia and directed by Charles Beeson. - LillyKat, PTR Senior Staff Writer

5: "My Finale" - Scrubs
Saying goodbye is never easy, but this perfect little series finale made it a bit easier. Story lines were wrapped up and we even got a little peek into the future. Plus, JD finally got Dr. Cox to admit that he was going to miss him. The final episode wasn't just about saying goodbye to the show, though, it was about JD saying goodbye to Sacred Heart. As he walked through the halls of Sacred Heart for the last time, he saw so many of the faces who had shaped his experiences as an intern, resident and finally, staff doctor. When he finally reached the exit doors, he saw a movie playing and the movie showed is future. He was happy, with Elliot and they had a family of their own. Suddenly, his decision to leave the comfort of Sacred Heart, his friends, and his mentor didn't seem quite as scary. While some things change, others stay the same and JD knew the important things would never change. This was a brilliant finish to a brilliant show that gave us 8 glorious seasons. My only complaint is the network's decision to bring the show back next season (albeit, with some significant changes) when it ended so beautifully. Written and directed by series creator Bill Lawrence.

4: "Right Place Right Time" - How I Met Your Mother

This clever episode told a story in a nonsensical order, and yet, made perfect sense and gave us a twist I didn't see coming. The entire outing posed the fateful question: What would have happened if Ted had gone a different way when he left his apartment? What wouldn't have happened was that he wouldn't have encountered the mystery woman with the umbrella. But before he got to her, he had to start out going the wrong direction only to realize his mistake (the bagel place he was going to eat at had made Robin sick earlier), stop at a newsstand (to see Barney's 200th conquest), and give a dollar to a homeless man (let's just say it had something to do with Marshall's new obsession with charts). There were so many precise actions that had to take place in order for THAT moment to happen -- the moment that put him on the course to meet his future wife -- it had to be fate. And after each action unfolded, Ted was standing there on the street corner waiting for the WALK sign as the rain began to fall. The woman with the umbrella walked up and tapped him on the shoulder. That woman was none other than Stella! As in, left-Ted-at-the-alter Stella! Suddenly, the implications hung in the air as the episode faded to black. Storytelling at its best! Written by Stephen Lloyd and directed by Pamela Fryman.

So, there's a look at the next set of episodes on the countdown. What do you think? Do you agree? Disagree? Leave us a comment with your thoughts. And be sure to tune in next Friday when we finally reveal our #1 Best Episode of the Season!!

The Countdown Gets Closer to the Finish Line

Last week, we barely dipped our big toe into the Top 10 of the summer-long countdown. But this week, we're diving straight into the deep end with three more episodes that shone brightly this season. But before we get to them, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. LillyKat and I ended up with 33 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2008 and June 2009. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, we will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 9-7.

9: "The Double Death of the Dearly Departed" - Bones
I LOVED the pure comedy of this episode. It had me laughing so hard I had tears running down my face ("We can't see him like this," "Like What?," "Hitler."). The whole thing had a Weekend at Bernie's feel to it with Booth and Bones stealing borrowing that body from the wake and then propping him up in the car to make him look alive for the ride back to the Jeffersonian. It was completely ridiculous, but that's what made it so darn funny. And then they managed to drag everyone else into it making the story even funnier. The funniest part of the episode, though, was Booth and Bones referring to murder with the key word "translation" (as in, it looks as though this guy was actually translated - HILARIOUS!) and Angela telling the family that they couldn't view the body because of a mortuary issue that had him looking like Hitler. So freakin' funny! Gotta love it when Bones tickles our funny bone. Written by Craig Silverstein and directed by Milan Cheylov.

8: "Cherry Bomb" - The Closer
During our visit to the set of The Closer in June 2008, the cast was relieved to have just gotten done filming this episode. When it aired, I understood why. It made you want to take every teenage girl you knew and say beware of arsewipe, cocky son-of-a-bi*tch dreamboat boys suddenly wanting to be your boyfriend. They aren’t interested in you, and you can and will do better. The case was a highly political one involving the son of a commander in the LA County Sheriff’s Office who sexually assaulted a girl a week prior to her ending up dead from an apparent suicide. Turns out slimeball arsewipe son of the commander and his friends invented a game called “Cherry Pickin’” whereby each put up $50 to see who could sleep with the most virgins by the end of the school year. He who picks the most cherries wins the cash. And the fame. And WTF else. Complete with “LookIt” Page (read: MySpace-esque homage) with each girl’s picture adorned with a little cherry graphic. Turns out the commander's son really had to really work to get our victim's cherry in this episode - and he beat her to a pulp in the process. It’s rare to see Brenda shaken up by a case, but this one got to her and found her even more steadfastly determined to nail the commander's son. You knew she would somehow, some way get the confession – even if every conceivable odd was stacked against her. Whether it was going toe-to-toe with the father, searching out another victim to get a tear-jerking account of how she was assaulted, or having to settle only for the assault conviction, she got justice in the end. I don’t know what was more infuriating – the boys and their game, or the fact these girls fell prey to the game. The closing sequence, with another cherry pickin’ victim coming back to Brenda’s office to change her mind and press charges was classic. I had visions of The Accused whilst watching this ep. When Brenda arrests the group of Cherry Pickin’ friends, I had visions of Kelley McGillis’ character going after all of the idiotbot men who cheered on the sexual assault of Jodie Foster’s character in that movie. She got justice in the end, too. Thank. God. I predicted this would be favorite episode on PTR’s list for this year. Poignant, powerful and tough to watch. Written by Michael Alaimo and directed by Rick Wallace. - LillyKat, PTR Senior Staff Writer

7: "The Long Blue Line/Into the Blue" - Cold Case
This episode was pretty much perfection for me. I remember saying at the end of it, "OMG, Cold Case just Sixth Sense-d us! I can't believe it!" When Moe told Lilly that from where he sits, she's still in that "box," I began to see Bruce Willis, that scary little kid and the entire previous hour flash before my eyes while Lil was watching water fill the room as the mirror began to shatter and her mind raced to figure out what was going on. She was still in that car trapped in the water unconscious and everything that had transpired in the last hour had been a hallucination. The episode was one big Lilly-fest from start to finish and part of that Lilly-fest included a huge chunk of the missing pieces of her past. Stillman was the cop who caught the man who assaulted her as a young child. She left an impression on Stillman and when she came up through the rank and file in PPD, he took notice of her astute observations and impeccable instincts and took her under his wing. And we also learned that Lilly's father left because of her mother (no surprise). This was one of the rare outings that mastered both the case-of-week and the personal story. And managed to throw a little surprise in there as well. Written by Jennifer Johnson and Greg Plageman and directed by Roxann Dawson (Part 1) and Jeannot Szwarc (Part 2).

So, there's a look at numbers 9-7 on the countdown. What do you think? Do you agree? Disagree? Leave us a comment with your thoughts. And be sure to tune in next Friday for #6-4 on the list.

The Countdown Breaks into the Top 10

The summer-long countdown is finally dipping its big toe into the Top 10 with three more episodes that shone brightly this season. But before we get to them, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. LillyKat and I ended up with 33 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2008 and June 2009. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, we will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 12-10.

12: "Yanks in the UK" - Bones
I expected to laugh at Booth and Bones's adventures in London, but I did not expect to be laughing so hard that I missed laughs while I was laughing! Booth driving that ridiculously small rental car and not being able to grasp the no right-on-red concept was HILARIOUS! And it sent him into a meltdown where he proclaimed, among other things, that he was glad the U.S. had a revolution with England. Later, he was trying to ease the car back into "the flow of traffic" and more hilarity ensued. I'm not sure what's funnier during these types of scenes -- Booth's rising agitation level, Brennan's rational/level-headedness, or the combination of the two. Meanwhile, Brennan was busy thwarting the affections of her British cohort, which prompted some interesting scenes between her and Booth. They shared several intimate conversations and Booth, in a successful ploy to deter his partner from sleeping with England's very own Romeo, told her that she's "special." All together now: Aaahhh! The entire episode set the season off to a smashing good start. Part 1 written by executive producer Hart Hanson and Karine Rosenthal and directed by Ian Toynton. Part 2 written by Stephen Nathan and Scott Williams and directed by Ian Toynton.

11: "I Believe in Angels" - Saving Grace
I sure do like it when everything comes full circle. Especially for show I gave up on. But I took a second look at the series, and I'm glad I did. My gripes for the second season of were about the same as they were the first season: stop the endless downward spiral of Grace; give us something to care about in her character; separate her away from that co-dependent mess of a relationship she has with Ham Dewey; force her to grow up, be accountable and act like an adult; give some of the other characters a chance to shine. When the show DID do all of this, as it did with this second season finale, it really worked for me. Grace owned up to not only having been awarded a last chance Angel, but also in accepting her responsibility that comes along with that gift. We didn't get the happy ending with Leon Cooley earning a stay of a execution, but we did get some serious soul searching on the part of Grace that brought her face to face with Leon in the end. It allowed her to make some peace not only with Leon, but within herself. We didn't get the holier-than-thou lecture from Angel Earl (not that he ever really does that), but instead, more of the equal partnership between her and Grace as to the turn of event(s) that have brought them both to this point in time. And we also saw the leveling of the playing field between Earl and Grace, which had been progressing nicely for most of the season. That is, they had become friends, gotten to know each other, had come to almost understand one another. In the end, we found out Grace really was worth saving. Written by Nancy Miller. Directed by Artie Mandelberg. - LillyKat, PTR Senior Staff Writer

10: "The Incident" - Lost
This season finale was jam-packed with questions for next season while still providing enough to close out this season. We found out that Jacob had a personal hand in bringing Jack, Kate, Hurley, Sayid, Sun and Locke back to the island by appearing to each of them at their worst moments. Later, we learned one of the season's most shocking secrets: Locke really is dead! His body was hidden in the chest that Richard, Ilana, Ben and "Locke" were carrying around. Not-Locke was really an old rival of Jacob's who has survived by, apparently, taking others' shapes. Not-Locke convinced Ben to stab Jacob several times (although, it didn't take too much convincing since Ben had always felt neglected in Jacob's eyes) and then Not-Locke pushed him into the fire. We got an ominous warning from Jacob right before he was pushed: "They're coming!" Who's they and why are they coming? The critical point of the episode came when Juliet got sucked into the pit with the energy source and the non-detonated hydrogen bomb. She had a huge choice to make and she decided to detonate the bomb. Is she dead? Did she "reset" the island? What happened to everyone else? Intriguing questions left hanging in this excellent season ender. Written by executive producers Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse and directed by Jack Bender.

So, there's a look at numbers 12-10 on the countdown. What do you think? Do you agree? Disagree? Leave us a comment with your thoughts. And be sure to tune in next Friday for #9-7 on the list.

The Countdown Dips into the Top 15

The summer-long countdown is moving right along with three more episodes that shone brightly this season. But before we get to them, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. LillyKat and I ended up with 33 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2008 and June 2009. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, we will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 15-13.

15: "Mortal Men" - Deadliest Catch
I know we referenced Captain Phil's memorable survival of a blod clot passing through his lungs in last week's countdown, but THIS is the episode that started it all - and left us all wondering what the heck was the matter with him. As a result of an Arctic hurricane, the Cornelia Marie took one of those 90 degree rolls, which threw Phil out of bed, across his room and smack dab into the sharp corner of his dresser. Being the tough guy that he is, he thought he could just Ace bandage himself back together and keep on fishin'. Not so much. Slowly but surely, it gets worse. Way worse - to the point where Phil's coughing up blood, the crew is freaked, and he's thinking the haunting dream he's always had of dying on the Bering Sea is actually going to come true. Now, I love Captain Phil, and the Cornelia Marie is my favorite ship (though the Hillstrand brothers on the Time Bandit run a very close second). But I just wanted to throw Phil overboard given he just would not call it a day and get himself to a freakin' hospital - even when everyone was telling him to do so, including his crew and the other captains. Thankfully, Phil does come to his senses. But interestingly, what he thought was the cause of the problem (cracked rib, punctured lung from being thrown out of bed) ended up NOT to be the case (as we now know). And that made this episode quite compelling to watch. - LillyKat, PTR Senior Staff Writer

14: "Unleashed" - Fringe
This episode centered around a seemingly impossible concept and managed to make it seem pretty possible all in the course of a 1-hour story. It's a hallmark of this series, but it was done to perfection with this outing. Scientists successfully created a new species by using the DNA of several existing species. It sounds crazy, but Walter presented his research, addressed all of the difficulties that one would have to overcome in order to accomplish such a feat, and then pointed out that if the scientist built on Walter's research from 20 years ago, he/she would be able to create a hybrid creature (in theory anyway). Apparently, the "monster" contained bat DNA, which is important because bat DNA gives the creature a unique immune system that would allow it to fight off the effects of different DNA coming together (much like the way the body will reject an organ transplant unless the recipient takes specific drugs to stop the process). It was all very clever. This stellar episode also included a life or death situation with Charlie (who had been attacked by the hybrid creature) and had Walter putting his own life in danger for the greater good. What more can you ask for from this delightful freshman series? Written by Zack Whedon and J.R. Orci and directed by Brad Anderson.

13: "Heart of a Cop" - Saving Grace
Two words: Christina Ricci. When I heard she was joining the cast of Saving Grace for a three episode arc, I was beyond thrilled. When she debuted in this episode - late to a crime scene after she and her son were teary-eyed and heartbroken over the death of their pet goldfish - it ended up being Best.Character.Introduction.Ever. Unexpected, yet cute and charming at the same time. We were all being set up to have Grace rip her a new one given her. Yet, when she finally does arrive and breaks into tears, even Grace is thrown off her game. Brilliant! As was the episode. It counts as one of my all time favorites. Everything gelled - some suspense, lots of humor, great personal interactions amongst the characters, nothing was over the top, good pacing. It all just worked. But it was Christina Ricci who made this episode so much fun - and so memorable. She was a perfect addition to the cast. As Holly Hunter told us, the role of Abbey Charles was written specifically for her by Creator Nancy Miller. As such, it definitely fit her like a glove. Christina is good in EVERYTHING she does, and I still wish she would become a regular cast member (or at least recurring). She balanced out the testosterone, gave us the young cop v. old schooler angle and slowed Grace down a bit to give us a more mentoring, elder detective woman look at the usually wild-child-hellraiser character that is Grace. Written by Denitria Harris-Lawrence and directed by Artie Mandelberg. - LillyKat, PTR Senior Staff Writer

So, there's a look at numbers 15-13 on the countdown. What do you think? Do you agree? Disagree? Leave us a comment with your thoughts. And be sure to tune in next Friday for #12-10 on the list.

The Countdown Keeps Rolling

The summer-long countdown is moving right along with three more episodes that shone brightly this season. But before we get to them, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. LillyKat and I ended up with 33 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2008 and June 2009. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, we will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 18-16.

18: "The Final Hour" - Deadliest Catch
The fourth season finale of Deadliest Catch is remembered - at least by me - for the Cornelia Marie crew's resilience in light of Captain Phil's troubled health. As we recall, their season got off on the wrong foot - they couldn't even find the crab at first, then they encountered engine troubles that forced them to return to port. When they finally limped back out the crab grounds and started to rake in the payload, they were hit with Phil's near-death blood clot health issue, which saw him have to be removed from the helm and take up residence in a hospital. Credit should be given to relief Captain Murray Gamrath for pulling the crew together and doing one heck of a pinch hit job. As we now know, Captain Phil's health remained an issue for the first part of the fifth season, and it is still something he must keep a close eye on as he continues to fish today. However, considering only 2 out of 10 people survive a blood clot passing through one's heart and onto one's lung, Phil has already beat the odds. And that is definitely worthy of a place on our countdown.LillyKat, PTR Senior Staff Writer.

17: "Zebras" - Law & Order: SVU
This season finale incorporated one of my favorite devices: suspect the most unlikely suspect even if he is right under your nose. Cold Case did it to perfection with the George Marks character, The Closer shocked me with the Stroh character and now Law & Order: SVU has managed to do it with a weaselly lab rat who seemed to get in the way of solving the crime more than he helped. In fact, I thought Stabler was going to deck him several times. Turns out, he wasn't incompetent and he wasn't bumbling the case -- he was covering his tracks. Stuckey was the man that Stabler and Benson were hunting, and he had a bit of an ax to grind with Elliot. Apparently, Elliot should have been more patient with Stuckey and not discounted his intelligence (or psychotic-ness!). First, he kills CSI tech O'Halloran and then waits for Elliot. He gets Elliot and ties him up, but he makes a mistake when he answers Elliot's phone and his ensuing conversation with Olivia tips her off. When she arrives, the showdown to end all showdowns occurs between Liv and Stuckey with Liv pretending that she hates Elliot and sides with Stuckey. Her deception works, and she manages to save her life and Elliot's. Stuckey isn't so lucky. This was one awesome way to end a season! Written by Amanda Green and Daniel Truly and directed by Peter Leto.

16: "Tomorrow Blues" - Friday Night Lights
With the end of senior year comes many difficult decisions, and this year's season-ender centered on those decisions and their repercussions for the future. Lyla thought that going to San Antonio State with Riggins was the right decision even though she had gotten into Vanderbilt. Thankfully Riggins, in a very selfless act, convinced her that she belongs at Vanderbilt. Matt was torn between his dream of art school (in Chicago) and his grandmother and her declining health. In the end, he chose his grandmother. And then there was this outing's most moving story line: Tyra's emotional rollercoaster as she waited to find out if she would be moved from the waiting list to the accepted list at the University of Texas. She made a desperate visit to the school's admission office, but it was that beautiful, moving essay that made the difference. I rejoiced along with Tyra and felt so proud for her when she received that acceptance letter. What a moving moment and such a perfect reflection on why this show is one of television's best. Written by Jason Katims and directed by Jeffrey Reiner

So, there's a look at numbers 18-16 on the countdown. What do you think? Do you agree? Disagree? Leave us a comment with your thoughts. And be sure to tune in next Friday for #15-13 on the list.

The Countdown Cracks the Top 20

This week, the summer-long countdown breaks into the Top 20! But before we get to that, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. LillyKat and I ended up with 33 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2008 and June 2009. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, we will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 21-19.

21: "Hey! Mr. Pibb" - Damages
Payback is a b*tch. Patty Hewes know this. She's normally giving it, not receiving it. But in "Hey! Mr. Pibb," Daniel Purcell, on the stand, totally frakes up Patty's attempt at filing a motion against UNR (read: evil energy company killing everyone with their polluted water in West Virginia) to start a class-action lawsuit AFTER he told her a) he'd run the test on the water that was snuck out of town by his on-the-down-low reporter, compliments of the Ellen and Tom Traveling Road Show; and, b) go on the record UNR doctored his original toxicity reports. Patty's seething, silent rage just came blazing through the screen at the moment Purcell screwed her. There is nothing like Glenn Close and THAT look. You know the old saying: If looks could kill, we'd all have been dead a long time ago (at about the time Fatal Attraction came out). It is seriously rare to one-up Patty Hewes. et, Purcell's screwing over of Patty's case wasn't the only OMFG moment: it was followed shortly thereafter (er, kinda simultaneously) by the reveal that he was IN on the murder of his wife. Solid episode. Written by Aaron Zelman and directed by Mario Van Peebles. LillyKat - PTR Senior Staff Writer.

20: "The Deadliest Ice Road" - Ice Road Truckers
This third season premiere (and the only episode from this season to air in time to make this year's countdown) started me on a journey that I now look forward to continuing each Sunday night. This time the drivers are taking on Alaska's Dalton Highway, a 400-mile plus harrowing stretch of ice-covered highway that winds through steep passes and dangerous downhills while connecting Fairbanks to the oil-rich Prudhoe Bay, and they packed a few new drivers including the show's first female: 28-year old Lisa Kelly. From the moment this episode started and we were introduced to The Dalton and its stomach-dropping stretches such as The Rollercoaster, The Beaver Slide, and Atigun Pass, I was on the edge of my seat. Even ice road veterans Hugh "The Polar Bear" Rowland and Alex Debogorski struggled at first and found themselves displaced to the passenger seat when their years of experience on Canadian ice was no match for the treacherous Dalton. And then we watched Dalton veteran Jack Jessee make it look so easy as he moved his oversized load along the 400-mile journey. Throw in a little humor from my girl Lisa and you have the makings of the start to one awesome season of IRT. Produced by Thom Beers and Dawn Fitzgerald.

19: "I Lied, Too" - Damages
This episode was Damages second season premiere. And when it finally arrived, it didn't feel as if it had been over a year since the last time we checked in; they brilliantly recapped key points of the first season for everyone WITHOUT running the flashback-this-is-what-we-did routine into the ground; and, they set the table once again for an even more complex web of manipulation and betrayal, with Ellen set to take down Patty once and for all if she could get past her own revenge issues. And that was all laid out for us in just ONE hour. Vengeful Ellen working for the Feds was just a brilliant storyline. She was SO different from the wide-eyed, fresh-out-of-law-school Bambi that was presented to us in the first season. Hardened by Patty's betrayal (uh, you know ... the whole tried to kill her thing), grieving over the murder of fiancé doc David that had her simultaneously wanting to disembowel Arthur Frobisher (can we blame her?), and having this veil of icy calm whilst seething on the inside as she agrees to play nice with Patty only to eventually be able to destroy her in the end ... GENIUS. I was glad to have Ted Danson back in the fold given he was just SO good at being the man everyone loves to hate in season one. Glenn Close was still fabulous. I swear, it's like an honor to get to watch her week in, week out. And I just loved the introduction of William Hurt's character, Daniel Purcell. Even if the storyline did seem a little tobacco industry-esque given he supposedly had smoking gun data to bring down an entire "industry," he was mysterious in a sympathetic way. The history between he and Patty was alluded to just enough to make you want to know more. And that, my friends, is great writing. Hard to believe we h ad to wait a couple of eps to SEE Marcia Gay Harden work her magic, too. Written by Todd A. Kessler, Glenn Kessler, and Daniel Zelman and directed by Todd A. Kessler. LillyKat - PTR Senior Staff Writer.

So, there's a look at numbers 21-19 on the countdown. What do you think? Do you agree? Disagree? Leave us a comment with your thoughts. And be sure to tune in next Friday for #18-16 on the list.

The Countdown Continues

Another week, another set of stellar episodes! But before we get to them, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. LillyKat and I ended up with 33 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2008 and June 2009. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, we will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 24-22.

24: "Inside Probe" - My Name is Earl
The fictional TV show Inside Probe with real-life personality Geraldo Rivera finally airs its shocking tell-all episode on the disappearance of the original Crab Shack owner. In the process, secrets about the residents of Camden are revealed and everyone becomes a suspect. But the most promising suspects are Earl and Randy Hickey until Inside Probe clears them. This 2-part outing was as funny as season two's "Our 'Cops' is On" with a hilarious inside look at the lives of Camden's finest residents while also enjoying the town's reaction to seeing themselves and their crazy little town on tabloid TV. These sorts of episodes bring out the best and funniest of this now-canceled series. And this one makes me realize that I'm going to miss Earl, Randy, Joy and Darnell next season. Written by (creator) Greg Garcia (part 1) and Michael Pennie and Timothy Stack (part 2) and directed by Greg Garcia (parts 1 & 2).

23: "Mr. Ferguson is Ill Today" - Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles
Cromartie.Was.Terminated. Bottom line, this is why this ep is worthy of a place on our countdown. It was a pivotal moment for the T:SCC series - one in which I actually don't believe they were ever able to recover (though that discussion is for another day). Nonetheless, taking out the pivotal antagonistic character in an OMFG shootout-at-the-OK-Corral fashion was powerful and absolutely stunning. But aside from the Cromartie show down, the ep had a little bit of everything - action, suspense, emotional intensity, unpredictability, and the always good "WTF do we do now?" moments. Not to mention the way it was told was new. Each character got their own snippet, advancing along the same plot line until the end, which ultimately brought them all together. Garret Dillahunt was right: this was one awesome episode. Written by Daniel T. Thomsen and directed by Michael Nanklin. - LillyKat / Senior Staff Writer.

22: "New York, New York" - Friday Night Lights
I've always felt proud of Jason for what he has been able to overcome. His entire future changed in an instant, and yet, he rebounded. And in this excellent episode, he learned the hard way that NYC is a tough town. But with a little help from Riggins, he got back on that horse more determined and he came away with a job. He made his future a lot brighter, and he faced his feelings and fears. He proved himself to the mother of his child, and he's now on his way to starting a promising career in sports management and a fulfilling home life with the woman he loves and his young son. It's not going to be easy, but you get the sense that Jason knows that and he's up to the challenge. The best part of this outing, though, was a "passing of the guard" scene where Erin took over for Riggins. It was so emotional, and both Scott Porter and Taylor Kitsch really showed their acting chops in that scene. But, it was only one reason why this episode is one of this season's best. Written by Kerry Ehrin and directed by Jeffrey Reiner.

So, there's a look at numbers 24-22 on the countdown. What do you think? Do you agree? Disagree? Leave us a comment with your thoughts. And be sure to tune in next Friday for #21-19 on the list.

The Countdown Pushes On with Episodes Full of Surprises

The countdown is moving full steam ahead with three more shining examples from this past season. But before we get to them, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. LillyKat and I ended up with 33 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2008 and June 2009. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, we will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 27-25.

27: "Tuesday the 17th" - Psych
Who doesn't love a good horror flick? Especially when you're watching it home alone. In the dark. And noises, which would normally go unnoticed, become magnified and severely menacing. Now, have one of TV's funniest shows satirize this classic format and you get a fan-freakin-tastic mix of scary and funny. Shawn and Gus find themselves at a remote (of course!) summer camp "psychically" investigating the disappearance of one of the camp's counselors, but things quickly take a freaky turn when bodies start turning up And The There Were None-style. Shawn soon realizes that the entire thing is staged (the camp is about to re-open as a murder mystery camp for adults). They have a laugh or two until a real body surfaces in the pool. With the power knocked out from the storm, things go from creepy to creepier without losing a sense of humor -- just how we like it. Written by (series star) James Roday and (executive producer) Steve Franks and directed by James Roday.

26: "Officer Down" - Cold Case
There were so many good things about this one. Turns out, Cold Case is clever. There was a flashback from "March 15, 2009... 5 minutes ago." What a great way to bring in the usual CC fare without being boxed in by the formula. And, the show surprised me: the connection between Pops and Jeffries, Lilly's father and her emotional response to his gift, Scotty and Frankie continuing to test the waters, and Lilly shooting the younger brother. The best part of this episode, though, was the emotion. There was emotion from the characters for their fallen comrade, emotion from Lilly for that gift, emotion for the loss of Pops, and emotion from every single character in the episode. CC can rip your heart out and break it in a million pieces and that's what makes it so good! Written by Christopher Silber and directed by Alex Zakrzewski. Screencap by RichE.

25: "A Pretty Girl in a Leotard" - Damages

(ETA: Apologies to our readers for adding this write-up LATE. There is this thing called real life that gets in the way of my television obsessions at times - LOL!)

I remember I nearly fell out of my chair watching this episode of Damages when it was revealed Arthur Frobisher (yes, that would be Frobie - the man Patty buried into oblivion in the first season) was going to be the Plantiff in the mother-of-all class action suits she intended to level against Walter Kendrick and Ultima National Resources (UNR). It was such a brilliant twist. The fact Patty was conveniently withholding that little bit of information from out-to-get-Frobie-at-all-costs Ellen made for even more intrigue. And in this episode, my heart ached for Ellen. We'd been seeing the more vengeful, sinister side to her character in the first episodes. But, we were treated to that softer, more emotional side when she returned back to her and now deceased fiancé Doc David's boxed up apartment - the memory of finding him murdered in the bath tub still haunting her every move. We also got our first extended look at Marcia Gay Harden's Claire Maddox character in this ep. I remember thinking ... tramp? pimped out hot stuff attorney on the UNR payroll? sleeps with everyone? I did not see that characterization coming. It was one thing for her to have the affair with Daniel Purcell, but the sleep around thing was quite curious to me - and got even more curious as the season progressed. Written by Adam Stein and directed by Greg Yaitanes. - LillyKat / Senior Staff Writer

So, there's a look at numbers 27-25 on the countdown. What do you think? Do you agree? Disagree? Leave us a comment with your thoughts. And be sure to tune in next Friday for #24-22 on the list.

The Countdown Rolls On

Last week, we kicked things off with three great episodes. What will be on this week's list? Before we get to that, we have to go over the rules for the countdown. We ended up with 33 incredible episodes that demonstrate the diversity and quality of the current television state. The shows and their episodes are from both NETWORK and CABLE television. All episodes aired between June 2008 and June 2009. Each episode that made the final list moved us in some way; either by making us laugh out loud, cry our eyes out or just left us with that "wow" feeling that stays with you for a few days. So basically, it's completely subjective! Since this is a summer-long countdown to the number 1 episode, we will reveal a few each week all summer. So, be sure to tune in every Friday to find out which episodes are on the countdown! Today, we're going to take a look at numbers 30-28.

30: "Private Eyes" - My Boys
When PJ starts dating "a mystery man," the boys want to know who he is and they're not willing to take PJ's dismissal for an answer. So, what to do? They plan an elaborate spy mission that finds Stephanie wearing a wire at dinner with PJ and the boys hiding in Andy's minivan (not so) discreetly across the street. Things go from funny to hilarious from there as Mike starts thinking like a cop, the boys order pizza delivery, and PJ catches on to their scheme. And they say girls are the nosey ones! This episode had me laughing from start to finish as the boys acted like they were uncovering government secrets instead of PJ's boyfriend. Of course, the joke was on them. The "mystery man" was one of them: Bobby.

29: "Apocalypse... Now?" - Medium
You know how it is when you have a nightmare -- you wake up relieved, shake it off, and move on with your life. Unfortunately for Allison, things aren't quite that simple and when that nightmare (or series of nightmares as it were) includes visions of the end of the world and that end looks imminent, she has to take action. This episode was fascinating because it delved into human nature and how we react when we're forced to fight for survival. Allison's dreams aren't always literal, but there's no way to know for sure until everything plays out. Luckily, this one wasn't, but it was a very important clue to saving a kidnapped girl and finding the man responsible. And once again, I was reminded why I'm glad that I do not possess Allison's "gift." Written by Michael Narducci and directed by Larry Teng.

28: "Intervention" - How I Met Your Mother
When your friend refuses to cease using a fake British accent or cannot see that they are totally too tan what can you do? If you're part of the crazy HIMYM gang, you stage an intervention. The idea started innocent enough with them trying to help out a friend with an alcohol problem, but it was so successful, the gang decided to stage interventions for everything. Enter the fake British accent one (Lily), the totally too tan one (Robin), and many others until Barney accidently torched the sign (during his pyrotechnics magic tricks intervention) and the group realized that they needed to stage an intervention to stop the interventions. Months later, Ted finds a banner indicating that they had planned to stage one for him because of his relationship with Stella. The hilarity of the interventions combined with the hard truth about Ted and Stella made for a strong outing. In fact, I might need an intervention if this show keeps bringing the awesome like this episode. Written by Stephen Lloyd and directed by Michael Shea.

So, there's a look at numbers 30-28 on the countdown. What do you think? Do you agree? Disagree? Leave us a comment with your thoughts. And be sure to tune in next Friday for #27-25 on the list.