Pilot Watching 2010 Part 2

My Generation

This pilot hasn't garnered much critical attention. The cast are made up of largely unknowns and the documentary style is a well used one. However despite some bad press, this pilot wasn't half bad. There were some definite plot issues sure and I'm honetsly not sure how they will keep this premise going. However, most of the stories were intriguing and there is definitely enough to keep me interested until the next episode.
I liked they way in which they used the past 10 years of history as a backdrop to characters lives. Being able to flashback and forwards allows them to do this in an itelligent way, with hindsight, unlike the current trend of shows to cover the recession, when really, it's overkill (DH and B&S I'm looking at you!).
Overall this is quite a nice show and I'll be tuning in for episode number 2, though I won't be expecting a long run for the show. (7/10)

EDIT: Since writing this review (took me a while to actually post) the show has been cancelled. Sad to see after just 2 episodes but it's not really a surprise. I did like the premise and though the execution/cast could've been better, it's a shame to see it go. Not sure if I'll get round to watching the second episode now, since there's not really much point.

Mini Reviews- September 26th

As you can see from my About Me section to the right of the page, my TV watching has severely increased over the last week, with many of my favourite TV shows starting recently. I will try and blog mini reviews about them every week- time permitting. I also watched a couple of pilots this week, that I will continue with as the season progresses. I will try to watch a few other pilots and review them over the next couple of weeks.

90210- 3x01/3x02 "Senior Year Baby" and "Age Of Inheritance"
The third season kicked off last week, mostly dealing with the events of the finale and how they would impact on the characters. The biggest storyline is perhaps Naomi's who is not dealing well with her rape at the hands of Mr Cannon. She attempted to talk to the police about it, but when this didn't work a stream of booze, sex exploits, flirting with Teddy and throwing a big birthday bash ensued, none of which went well.
The writers wisely got rid of Adrianna's brief fling from last year, Javier, in a dramatic car crash. Her stealing his songs was obviously a bad move and I'm just waiting to see how it will crash and burn around her.
Annie and Liam continue to tip toe around each other which is frankly a little boring. Liam's half brother doesn't necessarily make this love triangle more interesting, though I am intrigued to see his history with Liam. Other yawnsville storylines include Ryan and Jen, who quite frankly no-one cares about any more.
Ivy, now a full time character, is now lusting after new bad boy with a bad accent Oscar, who deliciously and in true 90210 style is sleeping with her mother. Can't wait to see this one blow up!
Silver has rather swiftly broken up with Teddy who after injuring himself has taken to drinking. Though I understand her own history with alcoholics, considering he's basically lost his career, she's being very judgmental. That makes it a little harder to care therefore when Mr Cannon has set his eyes squarely on her. As a villain goes he's pretty effectively and I almost hope they don't do away with him too soon.
NB After 7 years of having others play themselves with him in character Adrian Grenier had to play himself as his and performed at Naomi's birthday- he proved that playing yourself, is a lot harder than it looks.

Chuck- 3x16/3x17 "Chuck versus The Tooth" and "Chuck versus the Living Dead"
The show is definitely kicking it up a few gears with now pretty much everyone bar Ellie in knowledge of Chuck's secret and Ellie get caught up in the spy game too. It makes for a much more interesting show, but I can't help that feel that the show is marking it's own ending date by doing this, as it's changed the show forever. Chuck going mad is an interesting way to go with the Intersect and it makes sense, but it seems underplayed and not really like it's taken seriously. However I do like that Morgan knows as it's much more satisfying watching him be the geek in the spy world.


How I Met Your Mother- 6x01 "Big Days"
The creators promised us a return to form and I think we got it. Set primarily in McLarens, we saw the gang get up to their usual shenanigans, but in a funny and heartwarming way, with all characters getting ample screen time. The flashforwards that bookended the episode which revealed that Ted would meet the Mother at a wedding in which he was a best man were exciting though I don't think the commonplace theory that this is Barney and Robin's wedding day. Though it would make sense and the clues were obviously placed there, I hope it's not as I really can't see the couple getting married, much less in a all the frills church service!

Modern Family- 2x01 "The Old Wagon"
I'm happy to say that the show hasn't allowed it's success to go to it's head (though admittedly this episode was shot pre Emmy win) and this was another funny and endearing episode of the show. It was a fairly quiet episode, not necessarily one where a lot happened, but it was funny and very true to the characters. Good to have you back, Modern Family.


The Inbetweeners 3x01/3x02 "The Fashion Show" and "The Gig and The Girlfriend"
And finally not to forget this incredibly funny UK comedy, the show has proven they are one of the funniest things on TV period. Though the first episode got off to a rocky start, the second was hilarious throughout and very much classic Inbetweeners. Though I can't personally identify with the drugs storyline in the second episode, it was very true to life and very funny.

Dexter- 4x01/02/03/04 "Living The Dream", "Reamains to Be Seen", "Blinded by the Light" and "Dex takes a Holiday"
I finally managed to begin Dexter and the best thing about starting it late is that I was able to watch a few episodes all at once. A lot has happened this season already, what with Lundy being shot in the fourth episode. I've enjoyed Dexter's family stuff as it's been very fun to watch him grapple with being a dad. I love that finally Dexter is realising that he does enjoy being a dad and having family around; it's about time he realises what we already know. The Angel/Maria storyline has also been enjoyable though most people don't seem to think so. The Trinty killer stuff is completely terrifying and creepy though, not surprised John Lithgow won an Emmy for the role.

Pilot Watching 2010 Part 1

Here are my reviews for a couple of the new shows to hit US screens this week. I'll watch and few over the next few weeks and give my thoughts.

Running Wilde

There have definitely been mixed reviews for this one. It has a pedigree cast and crew and is a clear descendent of Arrested Devlopment, this time a story about a overly roch and selfish guy, in love with an activist from his childhood. Along with her daughter she moves into his mansion to make him a better person.

The plot doesn't blow me away and whilst there were some funny jokes, it wasn't laugh out loud funny. There were some clear throwbacks to AD (bleeping out the swearing, "huge mistake", having a narrator) but the show feels quite different in style- as well it should. The romantic edge to this story does mean it has a very different tone so perhaps making it so similar wasn't the best idea (though I must admit, some of the AD influenced stuff was the funnest). AD's own pilot isn't that funny and it was definitely a show that got funnier as it went on, so I will probably stick this one out for a few more episodes to see if it improves. (Pilot Score: 7/10)

Mike and Molly

Again, this isn't the best plot in the world and as a romance story there is perhaps a limit to how far it can go. This was vastly different from Running Wilde. Mike and Molly are an overweight couple who meet at Overeaters Anonymous.

The thing about thins sitcom was that it wasn't very funny at all. Most of the jokes were very one dimensional and pretty crude. However what this show did have was a lot of heart. It was incredibly endearing and I loved the scenes where the two leads discussed their weight issues with the OA group as they were both very heartfelt moments. Both leads are very strong and likable, but the rest of the cast is less so. Again I will probably stick with this one to see if it gets funnier. (Pilot Score: 6.5/10)

Mini Reviews- September 12th

Leverage 3x13- The Morning After Job

Leverage ended it's summer season with another great episode which is really the only 'arc' episode there has been since the premiere. However as a finale episode it lacked a little and whilst I understand why TNT might want to keep a few episodes back till the Winter, the 13/3 episode split is frustrating and a more even split would've been better. However, there may be some creative reasoning behind the split so I'll reserve judgment until the winter. (exact return date tba)
This episode is a little different to many of the episodes Leverage usually do. Though there was the usual victim, this one was really about going after Moreau, the mastermind criminal, the Italian wants the gang to go after in exchange for releasing Nate from prison.BI agent rather well. Eliot and Hardison did their usual and very funny double act which works so well because of their ability to vibe of each other. Sophie disappointingly had very little to do, I hope her role in season 4 increases because we haven't seen her do a whole lot since Gina Bellman went on maternity leave in season 2.

Chuck 3x15 Chuck versus the Role Models

A fairly good Chuck episode. With the state of their role models marriage as it was, I was curious to see where the show was going in terms of lesson for Sarah and Chuck. They didn't really come to any conclusion and honestly I found the vague 'we're different' platitudes followed by a swift moving in to be a little irritating. I did quite enjoy the Casey/Morgan stuff and whilst I enjoyed the Ellie/Awesome in Doctors Without Borders I was a little sad to see their journey end so quickly; it would've been nice to see them there a little bit longer.

Mad Men 1x10/1x11- Shoot & The Long Weekend

Very good episodes. The first definitely saw conflict rising, with Peggy gaining new found confidence to stand up to Joan and Don squashing Betty's dreams of being a model. I'm not a huge Betty fan, but it was easy to feel her pain at having her dream snatched away. I'm not sure I totally blame Don for not taking the job; it is his career after all and he has to do his best not just for himself but his family.
In the second episode we saw a few souls laid bare; Sterling's after his heart attack, Joan's roommate as she confessed her feelings for Joan and Don as he revealed a small part of his childhood to Rachel. It's almost a relief that the latter have slept together now as it's been brewing for weeks. I also found both the company's and Joan's reactions to Sterling's heart attack to be very interesting (telegraph's in the middle of the night?! A different world perhaps). Also the Nixon and Kennedy storyline is brewing nicely.


I'm quite annoyed to realise that after playing the last 3 episodes of season 1 tonight (Sunday 12th) the BBC don't seem to be continuing with their reruns, perhaps due to the clash with ongoing season 4. I hope we won't have to wait very long for season 2

Buffy and Angel Rewatch part 69

5.21 Power Play
As everybody knows, this episode was done pretty quickly to bring the series to a suitable conclusion. However that doesn't stop the amazing-ness of this episode. Making Angel appear evil was a brilliant and excellently pulled off storyline. When I first watched the episode, I nearly believed it and watching it again, he continues to pull it off convincingly. It's nice to see the gang work together, for the first time in a long while- first against Angel and then with him in that stunning final scene (one of my favourite of the show). There are some flaws with this episode as it was so rushed; Angel's explanation of what happened since Cordy's final flashback doesn't quite fit in with what's happened on the show; the Angel/Nina stuff is pretty awful since they have no chemistry together and the pair have gone from zero to 100 in the space of a few episodes and it feels very quick; and finally the Black Thorn idea, slightly contradicts everything we've known about the Senior Partners up until now. However looking at that final flaw from another angel, it does make sense especially since the society was secret and until they were inside W&H the gang had no idea how it truly worked. Either way, this episode neatly sets up for the final showdown. (9.5/10)

5.22 Not Fade Away
Apparently two episodes was all that was needed to create the perfect finale for this stunning show. The gang went out fighting and even though Angel was a little bit wordy in doing it, he reminded us of the mission statement of the show- fight the good fight, help the helpless and never give up. Angel and the gang showed exactly what they were made of by going to their deaths in a fight not to win, but to keep on fighting.
The composition of this episode was impeccable. Every character was allowed a moment of happiness. There were few surprises in what they decided to do; I loved seeing Lorne and Spike up on their stages, having Wesley stay with Illyria was just perfect for where he is emotionally and Angel and Connor's honest conversation was beautiful as they finally got to have the father/son relationship that Angel always wanted. Gunn's perfect day was perhaps the biggest surprise, but bringing Anne and the 'streets' back was an inspired move and it worked so well. Having Harmony betray Angel was perhaps a little sudden, and the dialogue was a little odd, but it served the purpose.
The fight scenes were equally amazing. We didn't really need to see much of Illyria's, Lindsey's or Spike's; it was clear that they would easily win. The subsequent death's of Wesley and Lindesey were far more important and utterly heartbreaking. Bringing Fred back for one final moment was a cruel and beautiful decision; Lindsey got a distinctly imperfect death, but Wesley's final moments were a lot kinder on him. It was sad to see Lorne walk away so defeated though. He was definitely a shadow of the character that entered in season 2. I'm only sad we didn't get to explore more of that.
In a way it was good to see Angel get beat up a bit as it made his final fight a lot more meaningful. Having Connor join him was yet another joyous moment and it's a nice way to wrap up their storyline together.
The final fight in the alleyway is definitely the best way to wrap the show. It's fitting that only the non-humans made it bar a nearly dead Gunn, as it presses home the reality of the fight they undertook. Overall a superb finale in which storylines are simultaneously wrapped up and left completely open ended- perfect for the show. (10/10)


Angel Season 5
Overall this was a very mixed season for me. The season started of shakily and produced very few good episodes within the first half. At the network's bequest most of the episodes were played as standalones which was a disjointing change from season 4, which had virtually no standalone episodes. The second half of the season was a lot better, but some of the shows worst episodes were in this part of the season, so it's difficult to say that the show found it's footing again.

One of the things I disliked most about the season was the arrival of both Spike and Harmony. Harmony wasn't so bad as she had appeared on the show before and fitted in with W&H's moral ambiguity. However Spike's appearance, not only lessened his heroic death in Sunnydale, it put him centre of stage which cause all the main Angel cast to be booted in favour of his hijinks with Angel. Whilst some of these escapades were funny, Spike generally got on my nerves and if he hadn't out stayed his welcome by returning to Sunnydale in season 4 and staying til the end, he definitely out-stayed it here.
There were other new arrivals in the form of Eve, Knox, Nina, Hamilton and various W&H clients, particularly those that ended up forming the Black Circle. Eve was a character that became more interesting as she lost power and I respected Hamilton in his obvious villain role. Knox was irritating, so it was almost a relief when he was revealed to be evil. Nina continued to be annoying during her performances- the network must've been behind Angel's romance because I can't seriously believe that the writers though that the pair had chemistry.

The season wasn't all bad however. I loved the gang's stint in W&H, it did help to rejuvenate the series and gave them new situations to face, which after the epic-ness of the previous season was needed. I'm sad we didn't get to see more of what Lorne and Gunn did within the firm; it would've been fun to see them do their thing- Gunn especially since it was so new to him.
I also liked that the show, despite network intervention, managed to to tie up lose ends- Cordy, Connor and Lindsey all returned to see out their storylines (sadly ending in 2 of them dying, but at least it was closure).

Overall this is easily my least favourite Angel season; there were many highs but many were cancelled out by the lows. (7.5/10)


There'll be one final blog to follow in which I'll round up the rewatch!

Buffy and Angel Rewatch part 68

5.17 Underneath
This is a little bit of a disjointed episode. The events of the last episode mean that Wesley can't possibly mix with the rest of the gang whilst they deal with the problem of the week. However, despite Amy Acker nailing her new role, there is little for Wesley and Illyria to do apart from talk, which gets a little boring.
The main story is a lot more interesting. The idea that Lindsey isn't in some standard hell, but a groundhog day suburban nightmare is a neat one and it works very well. Not seeing the cellar torture just adds to the terrifying nature of it.
However having Gunn take Spike's place was just pure genius and it's the perfect way to have him atone for his sins. With Wesley and Lorne severely depressed, we do not need another character brooding.
Eve's storyline was a little less interesting, but it did bring some light humour into an otherwise depressing episode and it was a nice introduction for Hamilton. (8/10)

5.18 Origin
The concept of this episode is a relief to me as it finally addresses the storyline of Connor and one of the biggest problems of the season- the rewriting of everyone's memories. Everything is more or less out in the open and everyone knows the truth behind why the gang cam to W&H (apart from Lorne and Gunn). This is an important aspect considering how much the gang are questioning their motives.Plus all the little references, demonstrate that the show isn't completely trying to scrub out the last the past couple of years, in favour of a new shinier show.
Bringing Connor back was also a much needed necessity; Angel's son is such a huge part of the series (whether fans like that or not) and lets face it, in the Whedonverse he couldn't just get a completely happy ending. The way in which he is brought back is a cool one and it allows Angel the chance to help the helpless and reconnect with his son- with Connor going mad again. Cyvus Vail is an interesting villain- more so than Sahjhan as he seems to have a lot more power- which says a lot considering what Sahjhan put the group through during season 3. Connor fighting Sahjhan also opens up another can of worms in that the prophecy is now well and truly fulfilled and begs the question- what does this mean for the Shanshu?
I'm glad to see Gunn wasn't completely forgotten about and having him decline Hamilton's offer is a nice way of showing that Gunn has truly learnt his lesson. The Spike/Illyria scenes were funny, though it still doesn't completely make sense why she is hanging around W&H. (8.5/10)

5.19 Time Bomb
This is a mixed episode for me. I'm not a fan of the time jumps, but it does address many important issues and generally it's quite enjoyable. This isn't Amy Acker's best performance of Illyria; Fred seems to seep through quite a lot. However by taking away her power, this allows the character to integrate into the group in a way that actually makes sense rather than the hanging around she has been doing in the last few episodes. Wes' growing attachment for her, is as Angel puts it 'weird' but almost understandable, considering who she looks like and although he claims he doesn't love her, I;m guessing that had the show continued that, that wouldn't have been the case any more. The case of the girl giving her baby up to the demon brethren, is again one we've seen before on the show. However it is poignant to bring it up here as this time Angel is fighting on the other side, which makes it a whole lot more significant, especially for the final few episodes. It was nice to see Gunn back to his old self a lot more, fighting for what is right. (8/10)

5.20 The Girl in Question
So close to the finale (series or season regardless) this was was really necessary. Once again the world of Buffy invades the show again, leaving Lorne and Gunn with little to do and Angel and Spike to rehash out old ground. They were pretty pathetic in their relentless pursuit of Buffy with only Andrew to interact with. As a comedic storyline the chasing of the head wasn't too bad, but mixed with the Buffy stuff it was just tiring. Though there were a couple of funny set pieces- in the bar and on the scooter- this storyline was mostly just pretty embarrassing with the cliche Italian characters, the silly flashbacks and Angel and Spike's continuous bickering which got tiring long ago.
The only storyline which kept this episode grounded was the Burkle storyline. I liked seeing Fred's parents again, as they were such sweet characters, and Amy Acker pulled off a blinder switching effortlessly between the two characters. Wesley's pain during the scene was pretty raw to watch, but it served an important purpose in the lead up to the finale. (5/10)

Buffy and Angel Rewatch part 67

5.13 Why We Fight
When I first watched this episode, I most disliked the fact that it came after Cordy's death and there was no reference to that at all. But watching the episode this time, the episode's actual flaws are glaringly obvious. Firstly we've have this episode before- Somnabulist in season 1, wasn't entirely different and the episode wasn't that interesting. Then we have the flashback itself, which completely contradicts the Angel we have seen around that time in past flashbacks (in Are You Now Or Have You Ever Been; Orpheus; Becoming part 1 in season 2 of Buffy). The Angel in the flashbacks (personality wise) wasn't that different from the Angel we know in the show's timeline and is miles away from the reclusive, can't bear to be near humans Angel that we saw a few years later in the flashback for 'Are you Never...'. Though the writers came up with a plausible storyline, it just didn't work with what we've already been given. Finally there's the fact that we saw very little of the gang, the flashbacks, which were pretty boring, took up most of the time and this made the episode very lacklustre for me. (4.5/10)

5.14 Smile Time
This is an utterly silly and yet brilliant episode. The puppet idea, could've gone wrong, but the sheer cuteness of the Angel puppet keeps it going. This is a great demon of the week/ helping the helpless storyline and it gives all the main characters something meaningful to do. It's funny playful and a joy to watch.
There are plenty of side stories to keep the episode from being too much of a flight of fancy. I'm not a fan of the Nina storyline, since her chemistry with Angel is pretty forced. Gunn making a deal with the devil to get his permanent brain upgrade was pretty interesting as it shows huge character change within him. Shame his cockiness and determination to have this super brain doesn't get explored any further. The Fred/Wesley storyline was the sweetest storyline. Wes is such a sweetheart in his devotion to Fred, especially during his conversation with Angel. However it's hardly surprising he failed to pick up on her signals considering how long she has kept him waiting. Regardless of their future, it's a moment of pure happiness to see the two finally together. (9.5/10)

5.15 A Hole in the World
This is a heartbreaking episode. The episode gut-wrenchingly begins happily, with all characters content, before throwing them all for six and breaking theirs and the audiences hearts. Fred's death scenes are not dissimilar from what someone with a terminal disease may go through- mystical style of course. They're horrible and yet brilliantly powerful scenes, made all the more excellent by Amy Acker's and Alexis Denisof's wonderful performances.
One of the most stunning and memorable scenes in on the stairs. The only bit of cute, Wesley and Fred flirting we get before that pure look of horror on Lorne's face after Fred sings, is just shocking.
The Gunn and Knox scenes are also painful to watch, but in a good way. It's almost a relief to see Know be revealed as evil, since he's not been very likable so far and because it's a further sign of the influence of W&H. However seeing Gunn receive the ultimate punishment for his upgrade is devastating and it's something he won't recover from.
Though the Angel/Spike scenes aren't quite as emotive, and the fight scenes kept the episode from being too much of a sobfest. Drogyn was a nice character, though a little backstory here would've been nice. I liked the name check for Cordy, since the show has largely ignored her death. (10/10)

5.16 Shells
Another heart breaking episode, though until the end, this episode perhaps isn't quite as sad as the last. Killing off Fred good and proper, (no soul to bring back) was a necessity because, as Angel said in the episode, death isn't always death in this verse. The job of this episode was to establish that death really was death in Fred's case. The episode therefore is a touch rushed; Illyria's powers are revealed to their full extent, her purpose ruined and she submits herself to Wesley just a little too quickly and easily. Though the gang obviously struggle to control her, it feels too quick. The decision to kill off Fred is a contentious one. It does make the season a lot more interesting, but losing sweet Fred is hard on everyone. It does however give Amy Acker the chance to shine in a really different role.
Thankfully Knox is dispatched off as I don't think I could've taken more of him. The show not so sneakily used the old hotel set for the Illyria stand off which made the scene lose it's impact a little.
Gunn's guilt and Wes' anger/grief is more acutely felt in this episode and it's hard not to sympathise with them both. It's a little shocking to see Wes be so violent, so easily, but he and Gunn have had their fair share of problems so it's believable. There's also the brilliant ending, in which the bookends of Fred leaving her parents and home (started in the previous episode) act as a poignant reminder of who she once was and the journey she has made. (9.5/10)

Buffy and Angel Rewatch part 66

5.09 Harm's Way
Though this is an decent enough light-hearted episode, it's also another weird one, as again in foucses on a supporting character and not one of the main ones. Harmony is a very funny supporting character, but as a lead- not as much. The overall story isn't bad and is enjoyable in places- the warring demon clans, the opening W&H advert, the mystery behind who framed Harmony- but this is very much a filler episode. (7/10)

5.10 Soul Purpose
This is another mixed episode. The hallucinations are a little grating at first, though some of them are funny and they do get better later in the episode. The best hallucination was Spike saving the world from the apocalypse as it gives the clearest example of what Angel is feeling.
The more interesting plotline was the Lindsey stuff. For the first time this season and perhaps the only time, Spike has a purpose and Lindsey drives him towards one, making him a lot more exciting. The 'Doyle' references are a great way to remind the audience of season 1 and it sets up nicely for the 100th episode. Lindsey and Eve are also pretty interesting as a couple; Lindsey's plan and aims are clear, but watching them mess with Angel and Spike, is kinda fun! (7/10)

5.11 Damage
I have mixed feelings about this episode. On one hand it's better than I remembered and is actually a quite enjoyable episode. Andrew is funny in places and whilst Spike does look silly trying to play the hero, he comes off better when lying in the hospital bed, realising the bad he has done.
On the other hand, this is a very disappointing episode. Angel has spent 4 and half years trying to establish itself as a show all on it's own, the use of slayer mythology here, demonstrates that once again it's leaning on Buffy to support it, which personally I think is a shame as the show doesn't really need to do that. Plus bringing aboard Andrew and his stories of the what the gang is up to know lessens the impact of Chosen where the future was undecided and this brings the promise of that episode down with a bump. (6.5/10)

5.12 You're Welcome
This is probably my most watched episode of Angel, though this is maybe only the second time I've seen it in context (ie with the episodes surrounding it) and I never tire of it. In what is a lovely tribute to the early days of Angel and the original cast, the episode revisits what makes Angel so great and demonstrates what the show can do. There is a lot packed into this episode with the returns of Cordy and Lindsey and practically every moment of this episode is a highlight. Lindsey's proper return is a good one; I must admit I get a bit of a kick from seeing Lindsey beat up Angel a little and I do feel sorry for him that his plan didn't work.Cordy's return makes me miss the early days of Angel and she definitely is a reminder of what is currently missing from the show. It's a bit of a shame that Cordy doesn't spend more time with the rest of the gang, but she gets decent screen time with Angel and Wesley, plus that little appearance from Doyle makes it special. (10/10)

Buffy and Angel Rewatch part 65

5.05 Life of the Party
Though I love that we got a Lorne-centric episode, I just wish it could've been better. All the pieces were there in the story- the big party, the crazy antics of the gang (especially Fred and Wes who were hilarious), the introduction of some key W&H clients- however something about this episode just didn't quite gel together. Perhaps this is because Lorne was never really a leading character, so the episode struggled with him at the centre. Maybe it's because at the heart of the story- Lorne having his sleep taken out, was very unsatisfactorily resolved, without any input from Lorne as to why he did this. Plus the Lorne monster was a little cheesy. (6.5/10)

5.06 The Cautionary Tale of Numero Cinco
This is a polarizing episode; on one hand it's a rather sweet tale of Mexican folklore (fictional) which nicely plays to Angel's own insecurities. On the other hand, it's cheesy, lazy and pretty all round ridiculous. The ending in the graveyard was silly, though in a way it was a nice way to end the story. Otherwise there wasn't too much to like in this episode. There was a lot of talking and a lot of exposition with Numero Cinco, and the flashbacks felt tacky and not at all that funny.
However it was nice to have the core gang working on the problem, though annoyingly Spike hung around uselessly for most of it as well. I liked the continuity with Numero Cinco as he has appeared in previous episodes and it was a nice touch to bring him back. However it probably would've been preferable to have him as a recurring gag than as a focal point of the episode. Also I have to point out how I didn't like that Angel could call upon the Shanshu prophecy from the book. Yes technology has moved on and no doubt so had magic technology, but there was so much trouble over the scroll in the season 1 finale that this felt a little too easy and well rounded. (6/10)

5.07 Lineage
Wesley is easily one of the strongest characters in the show and therefore his character centric episodes usually turn out fairly well. This is a particularly good one for me and a nice change from the recent average episodes. The cyborg story at the centre of the episode wasn't terribly interesting, especially as there wasn't a resolution, but Wesley's father issues were brilliant to watch. Alexis Denisof, is such a wonderful actor, that every quip from his father could be felt as he battled that fine line between loving and hating your parents. His feelings for Fred were also displayed here and it's heartbreaking to watch Fred leave with Knox after he made that hidden, yet very obvious declaration of his love for her.
Also in this episode we get some nice foreshadowing from Spike and Eve of the role she has played in bringing him back which is nicely underplayed. (8.5/10)

5.08 Destiny
This episode is seen by many as one of the best of season 5 and I really can't understand why. Until the final scene, it's very unfulfilling as it doesn't really offer up an answers and the gang don't seem in a rush to explore the matter in following episodes. The Spike/Angel fight is quite enjoyable though it goes on for a little too long though the flashbacks are quite fun to watch, especially Angel's and Spike original camaraderie.
Spike becoming real is something that was very necessary as he was really starting to grate. Though his little quips are there, at least now he's corporeal, he can actually affect things and become more interesting.
Another character becoming more interesting surprisingly is Eve, whose character they cleverly played making her ambiguously good with until that final reveal. As a big Lindsay fan, I'm thrilled to see him back. Spike was brought on as an antagonist for Angel but he never managed it quite as well as Lindsay has. (7/10)

Buffy and Angel Rewatch part 64

I must say I'm a little sad about beginning this final season of my rewatch. It's a little odd to watch Angel just on it's own and for me personally this wasn't Angel's best season, so it'll be interesting to see how my opinion changes/stays the same this time.

5.01 Conviction
Taking over the evil law firm was always going be a difficult things, for the characters and for the viewers. Whilst we didn't see Wesley struggling too much, Angel definitely had it the hardest as the boss. He battled with Eve and with the overzealous special ops unit as he tried to do what he has always done. Gunn, Lorne and Fred on the other hand seemed to fit in more happily into their new roles. In a way it's a thrill to see Gunn get a little more status in the team, though intrinsically it does change who he is. Fred, though doubtful at first, does learn, very quickly, how to be a leader. The additions of Eve and Harmony to the team are a little irritating. Both characters were brought in to up the female quotient and fill the giant Cordy shaped hole, but quite frankly Eve is far too annoying to do that. She does bring some clarity to the season in which she tells the gang that they have to actually run the business. On first thought shutting the business down would be a great idea, but by having Eve point out why they can't do that, perfectly lays the scene for the season. A decent season opener and a good way to introduce the inside-W&H element of the show. (7.5/10)

5.02 Just Rewards
I'm not a huge fan of the show's decision to bring Spike on board. Whilst James Marsters is a talented actor who brings a lot of charm and humour to the proceedings, Spike's presence on the show is an odd one. Just like on Buffy season 4, Spike hangs around here for no good reason, but another set of plot contrivances that have to be resolved. The it was his chip, now it's the amulet. A lot of this episode is taken up with exposition of Spike and who he is, most of which is is old news to Buffy fans. The sheer amount of talking means that the episode can get pretty bogged down. This is added to the villain of the week in the necromancer, who's pretty downbeat as characters go. It's a shame though because he actually is a nice example of the kind of people Angel will now be dealing with. I would've liked to see more about what this necromancer actually does rather than the bickering we actually got. (6/10)

5.03 Unleashed
The werewolf theme is a little overdone in the Buffy-verse. A lot of what Nina goes through, we have seen before with OZ in Buffy, but I did like the eating werewolf spin they put on it as it kept the story fresher than it was. Casting Nina as a love interest feels like it was clearly a network decision to make Angel 'normal' like other leading men. However since Angel isn't like other leading men, the boys joking about whether Angel is in with her, doesn't quite fit in with the show.
I'm not a fan of the Spike and Fred storyline either. Spike is quite annoying and Fred seems to have fallen under his spell quite quickly, though perhaps that's to be expected.
There were some nice moments of the episode however; Wes' jealousy of Fred as it's always sweet to see Wes passionate for Fred, Lorne reminding Angel to not forget the gang and those group get togethers at the beginning and at the end of the episode where they are almost happy- a rare scene in Angel. (6/10)
5.04 Hell Bound
Whilst this is an interesting episode, it's also an odd one. The role Spike played in this episode, the hero, is the one Angel traditionally plays. He has dealt with spooks before, but it has always been Angel who saves the day not Spike, which makes this episode disconcerting to watch.
Otherwise though this isn't a bad episode; the idea of Pavayne is a neat one and it makes a lot of sense in the context of W&H. Fred also had a nice role to play in desperately trying to free Spike. It was nice also to see the gang solving problems together and keeping them all in the building made for a nice intimate episode which amped up the spooky. I'm surprised there wasn't a bigger mention made of Gunn's relationship with the conduit; he doesn't just have law knowledge in his brain now, he is a trusted member of W&H. It would've been nice if the gang picked up on that a bit more. (6.5/10)

Buffy and Angel Rewatch part 62

B7.20 Touched
Since the ending is fast approaching, in many ways this is a nice human emotion episode to have. Buffy can get a little annoying when she's all melancholy; at least here she is starting to realise that maybe she isn't always right. Spike too falls into the annoying category, as he gets all superior about Buffy being kicked out with the gang and then again with Buffy herself.
The sex scenes that are referred to in the episodes title, make a lot of sense as they feature the shows core and likely to have sex characters. I do like the contrasts between the different couplings, including Xander and Anya's very messy sex on the kitchen floor!
As always it's nice to see the Mayor back on the show, even in the form of the First. No-one mattered more to Faith than him and since all the other Scoobies (minus Giles and Xander; shame Jenny couldn't have come back but she's already been the First once) have had visits from dead loved ones, it's about time she did too. What he said wasn't of great importance but it was a nice blast from the past.
Speaking of blasts, the ending was a very enjoyable one. I loved the cliffhanger aspect with the bomb ticking away. I guess since it's her show, Buffy had to be the one to find the scythe and be proven right, though it would've been nice for Faith's hard work to pay of as well. (8.5/10)

B7.21 End of Days
The end is indeed is indeed near. As the episode begins with an explosion which puts Faith out of commission, we finally see what they potentials can do. For the first time they are not fighting an ordinary vamp but the uber vamps. They're not great at it, admittedly, but this is only to allow Buffy to play the hero. The scenes of panic that play out at the house are good to watch as it really impresses home what danger they are all in. Sometimes on the show it can feel like everything will be alright in the end due to the safety net of it being a TV show, so these types of scenes are important.
Until the end there isn't much action but a lot of two people scenes. Sweet moments play out between some likely and unlikely pairings; Buffy/Xander, Buffy/Spike, Buffy/Faith, Willow/Giles and Anya/Andrew and they serve as a nice way to close the series for certain characters and pairings, especially Anya, Buffy/Xander and Buffy/Faith.
The scythe is a nice weapon to pull out of the bag at the eleventh hour, but we never get an explanation about why the First had it uncovered. It seems a pretty stupid thing to do, considering the power Buffy has with it. They do provide a nice back story to the scythe though in that it was created by people looking out for the Slayer herself. We have had a lot over the years about the Watchers and the men who originally created the Slayer, none of whom seemed to have the Slayer's best interests at heart, so it's nice that there were people watching over her.
Angel's return is obviously a major part of the episode. I used to be bothered that he could be so happy and heroic for Buffy considering all that's just happened to him in LA, but now I've realised that it's easy to put on a facade even when things are bad in your own life. Angel needs to be string and helpful for Buffy not depress her with all his problems. He has plenty of time to brood when he goes back to LA! (9.5/10)

B7.22 Chosen
Where do I start?! In a perfect and utterly satisfying conclusion to the show, Buffy saves the world (again). However this time she changes it as well, making every potential into an actual Slayer. As a concept this is an excellent way to bring the show full circle. The show's mission statement, spoken by The First in this episode, is completely altered and Buffy's biggest burden is now lifted. By doing this, Buffy is squarely put in Slayer history as the one Slayer who changed the rules and balanced out the fight against evil. One of my favourite things about this episode was the way in which Buffy's idea was revealed, first by hiding it and then revealing it towards the end. They have done the hidden plan thing before (Graduation Day, The Gift), but the sheer magnitude of the idea just made they way they did it in this episode, absolutely perfect.
Destroying Sunnydale was also another neat idea. The Hellmouth is always there as demonstrated by other times when Buffy has left and come back again and it will always need a Slayer to defend it. Closing the Hellmouth or at least getting rid of the humans living above and prey to it, was the best way to ensure that Buffy could truly move on.
The show did many other things to bring it full circle. Taking the fight to the High School and getting to destroy it again was a nice touch as was the final scene before the fight in which the core Scoobies, recount their conversation from season 1. I was also glad to see only the main alive characters in the final shot as these are the characters which made the show.
The fight scenes were brilliantly executed, as were the special effects, which were better than seen in some Hollywood blockbusters. Buffy coming face to face with The First/Buffy was also well done, but this was probably mostly due to Sarah Michelle Gellar's acting skills. I haven't mentioned it before, but like she did with the Buffy-bot, she pulled off the role of The First excellently and more convincing than many of the other actors brought in have done.
As for the deaths, Anya's was incredibly sad and quickly done; the shot of her lifeless body was a sad one, especially as she and Xander seemed so close during the episode. A main character death was much needed though, otherwise it wouldn't have felt like an apocalypse. Spike's death, whilst heroic, is cheapened by the fact that he doesn't really die and appears in Angel next season. His death here would be a lot more poignant had he stayed dead.
Overall this was a stellar episode and a beautiful way to end the show. I know many would've preferred The Gift, but personally the heroics and game-changing aspects of this episode make it the perfect to see out the show. (10/10)

Buffy and Angel Rewatch part 61

A4.19 The Magic Bullet
This episode does a great job of contrasting Fred's and later the groups, loneliness and despair over 'losing' Jasmine, with the happiness that the rest of LA is feeling, especially in the opening scene. The show is basically attributing to Jasmine's control to a cult and the mixing of the blood, to the loss of a cult and that sense of sureity and happiness. Fred's loneliness is sad to watch especially as she has been an outcast before in Pylea so this undoubtedly brings back
memories of that.
I'm not really sure what the writers were thinking writing a romantic scene between Fred and Angel; testing the water perhaps but they have already been down that road and feels a little odd to have every member of Angel Investigations fall for Fred.
There are a lot of fun scenes in this episode surprisingly, the open mic night and particularly Angel and Connor singing together was a real highlight. It's also pretty interesting to note that Lorne's demon-ness is completely out in the open and accepted as in another funny scene in which he discusses his physiology. A little odd perhaps that he's so open about it considering the wider demon 'jihad' as its put. (8/10)

A4.20 Sacrifice
Now that Angel Inc are out of Jasmine's control and her true colours are starting to show, the arc has become a lot more enjoyable. The show is always stronger when the gang is together anyway. The street/sewer kids were a good device to use to give the group direction. Them running away is not something we are used to; it makes more sense that they would stay to fight something. The skittery demon Angel fights, is pretty gruesome, though I did love that she was making a sacrifice out of a vampire, that was pretty amusing.
Jasmine continues to get creepier, especially in the scene in which she digs her nails into Connor and the final scene where she's manically laughing. However this also means that as a villain she is becoming stonger and more more interesting. When she talked about politicians surrendering to her was a particularly important scene as it gives an inclination into what she really wants. (8.5/10)

A4.21 Peace Out
This is an odd climax to the arc, but it was always going to be difficult to end. Jasmine's true name being the key to her destruction was a little hokey, but I loved her final confrontation with Angel. It throws up so many questions as to what Angel has achieved and the season as a whole. Was Jasmine really good like she says or was she evil? Yes she ate people, but she offered happiness. Lilah ascertains that Angel did just end world peace, but Angel contests that and it's a debate that will continue into the next episode. Speaking of, I also loved Lilah's entrance in this episode and it sets up for a much more satisfying finale than this episode would've been.
Connor played a major part in this episode, as it's revealed that he has known all along who Jasmine was. This is a little bit of ret-con but an interesting theory- perhaps he wasn't under her spell as he was her father. Why he overlooked it is easier to understand as Jasmine was to all intents and purposes, his daughter and parents tend to have a blind love. Vincent Karthesier, doesn't often get praised for his acting but he did a great job in this episode, especially in his monologue scene with Cordy, which a frank look at Connor's perspective. (8.5/10)

A4.22 Home
Though this episode starts off a little shaky, it develops into one of the best season finale the show has done. Coming of the back of an apocalypse and world peace/domination, where is there left to go for the team. They have saved the world, could they really go back to saving singular people week in and week out? That's why as the episode takes shape, the idea of Angel taking of W&H becomes more and more genius. It is a little hard to accept the idea of W&H now becoming
the gang's new home since it's been the villain for so long and also to see why the gang are considering it. There are perks for sure, but it must be hard for them to get their heads around the idea.
Bringing back Lilah was just a wonderful idea, there is no one better suited to entice the team. Her scene with Wesley, in amongst the filing cabinets is my favourite. The scene is fairly quiet, but there is a connection that runs surprisingly deep between the pair that just makes that scene so incredibly sweet and painful. This also goes for Angel in his scenes with both Lilah and Connor. Angel, along with Fred, is the least excited about the W&H deal; Angel was especially sceptical and even the offer of help for Buffy in Sunnydale wasn't enough to tempt him. Connor, of course would be the only reason for Angel to make a deal with the devil. It's perhaps an easy but necessary end for Connor's storyline and troubled past.
As for the rest of the gang's tours, I would've liked to have seen at least some of Lorne's and it's a shame that we didn't. Gunn's was the most interesting in that we don't see what happens to him in the White Room. Overall though this is a sensational finale and the perfect way to cap the season off. (10/10)

Buffy and Angel Rewatch part 60

A4.16 Players
I'm a big fan of this episode. What could've been a filler episode for the finale arc kicked in, was seamlessly part of the overall season by bringing back Gwen, who this time was looking for a cure. Her three episodes was actually a nice story arc for Gwen. We got to see her origins, and what she does best, then her helping the gang and being a hero, and finally her finding cure for her inner freak. This episode was also a nice episode for Gunn and showed that he has more talents that he has perhaps ever been given credit for. The final scene with the pair was incredibly hot and they would've made an interesting couple.
The storyline at the hotel felt a little filler, until the final scene, where it is revealed that Cordy's treachery has been found out. It makes for an exciting cliffhanger ending for the next episode. (9/10)

A4.17 Inside Out
For me this a pretty amazing episode. We finally get explanations of all Cordy's transgressions and also we finally get to see fully evil Cordy. It would've been nice to see more of Cordy as this evil thing- Charisma Carpenter does evil so well, but the fact we get so little makes this episode more special. Whilst its nice seeing Skip again- visually he's a pretty amazing demon and he's pretty funny even when evil- I'm not sure I like his explanation of how fate or Jasmine specifically has worked. It therefore renders both shows as the machinations of this god, which doesn't quite sit right with me. Still an explanation is better than none at all. I do love his death though, Wes' amazing on target shot into Skip's head was just incredible.
The strongest part of this episode is of course the Darla/Connor scenes. Its a thrill to see Julie Benz back and for once being the good one. The scenes are hugely haunting. It was also a nice chance for mother and son to meet and a reminder that TPTB are still around, despite Angel thinking they have deserted them. (9/10)

A4.18 Shiny Happy People
This is an interesting start to the Jasmine arc. Like many of Angel's arcs it's difficult to talk about this episode in itself. The beginning is a touch tedious as all the team bow to her will and act all googly eyed over her. Unadulterated happiness isn't that interesting to watch on TV funnily enough. However things get a lot more interesting once Fred finally wakes up. Emotionally and physically Fred has always been the weakest of the characters (baring perhaps Lorne), but here she becomes the detective and eventual hero of the group. As the only remaining female member, it's probably harder on her than it would be on any of the others and that's what makes it so interesting. I love the scene where Fred tells Wes her findings and he betrays her. It's very poignant and enjoyable to watch. (7.5/10)

B7.18 Dirty Girls
This is one of my favourite episodes of the season. The return of Faith brings much joy; she has a lot more history with the Scoobies than with those in LA making her entrance that little bit more interesting. It's a touch annoying that we have to have so much exposition courtesy of Andrew as to Faith's past, but for new viewers at the time this must've been useful. She zings with all the main characters and its nice to see that apart from Dawn and to an extent Buffy, they are all able to put their history with her to one side.
The other notable entrance in this episode is of course of Caleb. Nathan Fillion plays this role to perfection and it's a testament to his incredible acting skills. Having a corporeal and coherent baddie was much needed. The Turok Han and the Bringers are fearsome warriors, but they don't say much and though the First like to talk the talk, he can't really do anything. Caleb however makes a dramatic impact killing at least two of the girls and of course the biggest impact in squeezing out Xander's eye. This scene doesn't get any less shocking or hard to watch the more times I watch it and puts Xander top of the casualty list. Apart from Anya, Xander hasn't really lost anyone or thing like the other Scoobies have (Angel, Joyce, Tara, Jenny) so perhaps it is fitting that he loses something so important now. His speech earlier in the episode only makes his loss here more poignant. (9.5/10)

B7.19 Empty Places
Though this is a very enjoyable episode, it is somewhat of a placeholder between the last episode and the next one. I love the final scene when Buffy is chucked out of her house, it is a very strong scene, especially as all the main Scoobies get involved with their thoughts. Silence from any of them was just not an option. If I'm honest it's a little hard to feel sorry for Buffy at the end of this episode. She hasn't always done well at her leadership role and it's something that she has definitely struggled with. This is exemplified here more than anything, when she refuses to listen to anyone else over what they should do. (I must say her view on democracy is very interesting considering American's think themselves as the leaders of democracy!) Whilst I do think the potentials step out of line here, Buffy doesn't want to listen to the other Scooby's, even those she is currently speaking to and this is her downfall here. Buffy hasn't been a bad leader this season, but she has definitely lost perspective by the end of this episode. That said I'm not sure Faith is a better leader for the girls. In effect she and Buffy do make a good team playing good/bad cop, and I love the scenes when the girls go to The Bronze, but Faith is really not a leader. Even during her stint on Angel, she struggled with it a little and Wesley was by her side in the planning and execution of their ruse to trap Angelus. (8.5/10)

Buffy and Angel Rewatch part 59

B7.16 Storyteller
Whilst its nice to get a little background as to what happened before Andrew killed Jonathan, this episode feels a little strange. Its format and focusing on a minor character feels a little weird and it doesn't quite fit in with the rest of the season, especially so late on. Andrew can be funny though, so it wasn't awful. Having to see so much of the Trio is a little annoying though. It was nice to see Xander and Anya make nice after their previous year of difficulties, even if they're not meant to be as a couple. The students freaking out on the Hellmouth was also fun to see; calling back to many season 1-3 storylines. (7.5/10)

B7.17 Lies My Parents Told Me
My opinion on this episode has definitely changed from the last time I watched it. Whilst it is still an excellent episode, I'm more firmly on Wood's side here. They are in a war, but Wood's need for vengeance here is completely understandable. Giles too, had just cause for worrying about Spike, since Buffy seems to be more blind to the danger he poses than she did to Angel. Now I'm not saying Buffy is totally wrong for saying Spike has changed because the soul has surely changed who he is, just like it changed Angel, but its unfair for her to shut Giles out (literally and figuratively) at the end of the episode.
The flashbacks are a fun and effective way for Spike to work out his Oedipal issues, which are allowing the First to take control of him. The episode is flawed though in the fact that even after Spike is sired, he still dotes on his mother, but she completely turns on him. The writing here isn't completely consistent with how far the demon takes over the body as Spike's inner demon doesn't seem to have complete control over him. Therefore when Spike tells Robin that his mother loved him, the point isn't quite true. Similarly when Spike tells Robin that Nikki didn't love him completely, well that isn't true either. I severely don't think that Nikki should've given up her calling just because she had a son. She wouldn't have been able to live with herself of she had. Like Buffy she doesn't have the luxury of choosing to protect the world. It chose her. (8.5/10)

A4.14 Release
The Faith and Wesley aspect of this episode is very strong. Its understandable that Faith would be off her game, now she's reformed after her stint in prison. She's used to fighting like she didn't care for her life and now she does, forcing her to adjust. Wes, is very in tune with this and knows just what to do and say to get her back to her best. Their confrontation over her torturing him was particularly notable as Wes has never had a chance to avenge this and so its only right he get's a chance to say what he's probably wanted to say for 3 years.
The activities at the hotel are less interesting however. Gunn and Fred's interactions weren't that thrilling, though it did give them a chance for closure. I didn't care for Connor and Cordy much either, they are a bit icky, though the scene where Connor checks for vampire-ness was funny. I also wasn't a fan of Cordy/the Beast master speaking to Angelus in his head. The 'British' voice was a little cheesy and it made the scenes where Angelus was talking to her a bit weird. (8/10)

A4.15 Orpheus
When Willow comes to LA in his episode, it does make you wonder why in the story they never thought of that beforehand. However her return, at any time is welcome and her interactions with all the cast members here are a lot of fun. All the Sunnydale characters here have changed a lot since they were last all together in Buffy's season 3, so there's a lot of catching up to do as well as a lot of changed agenda's. However considering Cordy and Willow's history, it is fun to see them fight magically even if Willow doesn't know it. The Connor and Cordy stuff continues to get more icky, which Fred thankfully points out but the end reveal more than makes up for it.
The Angelus/Faith flashbacking, isn't my favourite aspect of the episode as its a bit of a weird concept, but it acts as a nice character arc for Faith and gets her back to where she needs to be for her time in Sunnydale. As for Angel's soul being returned, I can't say that I'm that sad to see Angelus leave. He started off the arc so interesting and fun to watch, but he hasn't really done anything that evil this time round (probably so Angel doesn't have to atone for it), apart from a lot of talking especially in the last couple of episodes. (9.5/10)