Sunday, May 31, 2009
Speed Racer (2008)
Queued up the DVR this morning (now that it is empty from the regular TV season) and recorded Speed Racer, the technocolor high-action, high-speed live-action adaptation of the old 1960's cartoon. I used to watch that cartoon as a kid - wasn't a huge fan by any stretch. It was okay in a minimalist animated sort of way. And when we saw the trailers for the film last year in theatres, I knew we would go as a family as it would have quickly made my wife motion sick. So, we skipped it - and waited for it to hit cable. I must say - it was an okay film. Liked the story, but the bouncing around back and forth with past and present was annoying. Also too, the heavy color palette took a lot to get used to. And I thought Dick Tracy from the late 80's was over the top in that area. Still, I could see how it was made to appeal a lot to today's modern generation of kids - with their outlandish video games and short attention spans. It was worthwhile to pass an couple hours on a Sunday afternoon (and it didn't cost my son and I to watch it - so win-win).
DVD review - Angel season 1 episodes 20, 21 and 22
Concluding my viewing and reviewing of season 1 of Angel...
***SPOILERS***
A1-20: War Zone
Synopsis: While working a blackmail case, Angel encounters Charles Gunn, the leader of a gang of street kids battling a nest of vampires who've settled in their neighborhood. (written by Garry Cambell, airdate 5/9/00)
First, why do all the computer guys who play AD&D have to be portrayed as socially inept nerds? Just asking. Love Cordellia's innate sense at "smelling money" and I totally laughed when she considered "prostituting" herself to David Nabitt (only she could consider justifying that). Luckily Wesley wasn't buying that. Oh, and the idea of Madame Dorian's demon brothel - so makes sense and a nice addition to the background that is Angel's LA. Of course, the main plot is the whole vamps-in-the-hood plotline with the introduction of Charles Gunn. The story showcased this new character nicely, showing the problems he and his group have endured and what lengths they'll go through to protect their turf from the vampires (loved their gauntlet of traps in their hang-out). Of course, the character has to go through a tragic event to show us how strong he is and how far he'll go for his cause. Even if that means dusting his own sister who gets vamped. Ouch. That's one hardcore guy. Of course, Angel respects Gunn for what he had to do and offers help. Gunn, of course, doesn't think he needs it - but Angel is thinking he just might need Gunn's help someday. I am hoping we see more of him. I liked the character a lot.
A1-21: Blind Date
Synopsis:Lindsey McDonald, a young lawyer at Wolfram & Hart, teams up with Angel to stop the killing of three blind children who are said to be a threat to the firm. (written by Jeannine Renshaw, airdate 5/16/00)
This episode is all about find one's place in the grand scheme of things. Angel starts out with doubts after being nearly beaten by the blind Vanessa Brewer. Lindsey has his doubts about his place in the firm after finding out what Vanessa's next assignment is. He turns to Angel, forming an unlikely alliance for a dangerous mission to get information from the firm's vault. I really enjoyed the focus on the firm, giving us more details of their inner workings and the types of resources they have at their disposal. I like how Angel gets Charles Gunn to help out, with a much needed distraction. Of course, then there is the prophecy scroll which tells of Angel and his purpose. In the end though it is mostly about Lindsey - his past, his present and the future that Holland offers him. He appears to take the offer - which could bode for some interesting conflicts down the road in the season. Oh, and best line of the episode - after the mind readers pinpoint Lee as talking to another firm - Holland says "terminating an employee is never pleasant", right after the security guard blows Lee's brains out. Ouch. That's some harsh conditions of employment there.
A1-22: To Shanshu in L.A.
Synopsis: Angel turns to Gunn for help when Cordelia and Wesley are attacked by a demon - although that is just the first creature Wolfram & Hart plans to send against Angel. (written by David Greenwalt, airdate 5/23/00)
Continuing the events of the previous episode, Wesley is trying to translate more of the prophecy scroll and Wolfram & Hart summon a Vocah demon to get it back. Loved the return of David Nabitt, in his dungeon master's cape no less, just to hang - awkwardly. As a season finale, we get some Kate and Angel scenes where she vows to rid the city of his kind, and Angel stands up to her saying that if she wants them to be enemies then he is fine by that. Of course, the main crux of the episode is brought with the Wesley and Cordelia discussion of Angel and his connection (or lack thereof) to life. They want to try and help and find what he needs to connect. But, the truth turns out to be that they are what he needs to connect. They are his closest friends, his confidants, his "family". When they are attacked, it brings out the fire in him. The Vocah demon can destroy his home/office, but he attacks Wesley and Cordelia, it is now very personal and the gloves are off! Lindsey shows Angel that he chose the dark side when he finishes the Raising ceremony. Wolfram & Hart get the prize, but Lindsey loses his right hand, literally, when he tries to stand against Angel to destroy the Prophecy, the one thing needed to save Cordy. In the end, Wesley realizes that "shanshu" does not mean death but instead life - that Angel's final reward after all the coming will be to become human once more. But, will Wolfram & Hart let that happen? Not when what they raised turns out to be Darla, the very vampire that sired Angel centuries ago. This was a great set up for season 2.
Overall, season 1 had highs and lows for me. The show definitely was feeling its way a bit but I think the direction really focused around episode 10. My personal favorites this time were definitely episodes 3, 5, 8, 10 and then wrapping up with 18 through 22. That's nearly half of which I totally loved so a good batting average.
***SPOILERS***
A1-20: War Zone
Synopsis: While working a blackmail case, Angel encounters Charles Gunn, the leader of a gang of street kids battling a nest of vampires who've settled in their neighborhood. (written by Garry Cambell, airdate 5/9/00)
First, why do all the computer guys who play AD&D have to be portrayed as socially inept nerds? Just asking. Love Cordellia's innate sense at "smelling money" and I totally laughed when she considered "prostituting" herself to David Nabitt (only she could consider justifying that). Luckily Wesley wasn't buying that. Oh, and the idea of Madame Dorian's demon brothel - so makes sense and a nice addition to the background that is Angel's LA. Of course, the main plot is the whole vamps-in-the-hood plotline with the introduction of Charles Gunn. The story showcased this new character nicely, showing the problems he and his group have endured and what lengths they'll go through to protect their turf from the vampires (loved their gauntlet of traps in their hang-out). Of course, the character has to go through a tragic event to show us how strong he is and how far he'll go for his cause. Even if that means dusting his own sister who gets vamped. Ouch. That's one hardcore guy. Of course, Angel respects Gunn for what he had to do and offers help. Gunn, of course, doesn't think he needs it - but Angel is thinking he just might need Gunn's help someday. I am hoping we see more of him. I liked the character a lot.
A1-21: Blind Date
Synopsis:Lindsey McDonald, a young lawyer at Wolfram & Hart, teams up with Angel to stop the killing of three blind children who are said to be a threat to the firm. (written by Jeannine Renshaw, airdate 5/16/00)
This episode is all about find one's place in the grand scheme of things. Angel starts out with doubts after being nearly beaten by the blind Vanessa Brewer. Lindsey has his doubts about his place in the firm after finding out what Vanessa's next assignment is. He turns to Angel, forming an unlikely alliance for a dangerous mission to get information from the firm's vault. I really enjoyed the focus on the firm, giving us more details of their inner workings and the types of resources they have at their disposal. I like how Angel gets Charles Gunn to help out, with a much needed distraction. Of course, then there is the prophecy scroll which tells of Angel and his purpose. In the end though it is mostly about Lindsey - his past, his present and the future that Holland offers him. He appears to take the offer - which could bode for some interesting conflicts down the road in the season. Oh, and best line of the episode - after the mind readers pinpoint Lee as talking to another firm - Holland says "terminating an employee is never pleasant", right after the security guard blows Lee's brains out. Ouch. That's some harsh conditions of employment there.
A1-22: To Shanshu in L.A.
Synopsis: Angel turns to Gunn for help when Cordelia and Wesley are attacked by a demon - although that is just the first creature Wolfram & Hart plans to send against Angel. (written by David Greenwalt, airdate 5/23/00)
Continuing the events of the previous episode, Wesley is trying to translate more of the prophecy scroll and Wolfram & Hart summon a Vocah demon to get it back. Loved the return of David Nabitt, in his dungeon master's cape no less, just to hang - awkwardly. As a season finale, we get some Kate and Angel scenes where she vows to rid the city of his kind, and Angel stands up to her saying that if she wants them to be enemies then he is fine by that. Of course, the main crux of the episode is brought with the Wesley and Cordelia discussion of Angel and his connection (or lack thereof) to life. They want to try and help and find what he needs to connect. But, the truth turns out to be that they are what he needs to connect. They are his closest friends, his confidants, his "family". When they are attacked, it brings out the fire in him. The Vocah demon can destroy his home/office, but he attacks Wesley and Cordelia, it is now very personal and the gloves are off! Lindsey shows Angel that he chose the dark side when he finishes the Raising ceremony. Wolfram & Hart get the prize, but Lindsey loses his right hand, literally, when he tries to stand against Angel to destroy the Prophecy, the one thing needed to save Cordy. In the end, Wesley realizes that "shanshu" does not mean death but instead life - that Angel's final reward after all the coming will be to become human once more. But, will Wolfram & Hart let that happen? Not when what they raised turns out to be Darla, the very vampire that sired Angel centuries ago. This was a great set up for season 2.
Overall, season 1 had highs and lows for me. The show definitely was feeling its way a bit but I think the direction really focused around episode 10. My personal favorites this time were definitely episodes 3, 5, 8, 10 and then wrapping up with 18 through 22. That's nearly half of which I totally loved so a good batting average.
Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008)
We finally got around to watching a film that had been sitting on the DVR for months - Forgetting Sarah Marshall. It was one of those films my wife and I saw the trailer for and said "oh, that looks funny". Now, I am a huge fan of Jason Segal. Have been since Freaks and Geeks and love him each week on How I Met Your Mother. And since he wrote this film, we figured it would be awesome.
It was very enjoyable, but definitely something to watch when the kids aren't around (which was this Friday night for us when our son was away at a scouting overnight). It's very R-rated and typical of the Apatow comedies of late (which seem to always have an "unrated" version on DVD - how much more "unrated" do we really need?).
We even get some funny stuff from Paul Rudd, who starred with Jason in this years I Love You, Man. I kept waiting for him to say "slappin' the bass". LOL.
Loved that Jason decided that he'd take the front of the full-frontal nudity in the film. None of the female leads bare all (okay, Mila Kunis from That 70's Show does have topless input but I wonder if was actually her or not). Kristen Bell finds herself in some very funny "moves" with hilarious Russell Brand but nothing in the nudity realm. The whole films draws from the same well as many of the recent trend of relationship comedies do - language, sex, etc. - but I don't think this one was as over-the-top as others.
Plus, how can you not love a musical about Dracula with puppets (done by Jim Henson's company no less)? That is just all kinds of awesome. The scenes done in Hawaii were also very pleasant - gave the film an interesting locale to play out most of the comedic situations and drama.
All in all, I enjoyed it a lot. Worth the wait to finally see it.
It was very enjoyable, but definitely something to watch when the kids aren't around (which was this Friday night for us when our son was away at a scouting overnight). It's very R-rated and typical of the Apatow comedies of late (which seem to always have an "unrated" version on DVD - how much more "unrated" do we really need?).
We even get some funny stuff from Paul Rudd, who starred with Jason in this years I Love You, Man. I kept waiting for him to say "slappin' the bass". LOL.
Loved that Jason decided that he'd take the front of the full-frontal nudity in the film. None of the female leads bare all (okay, Mila Kunis from That 70's Show does have topless input but I wonder if was actually her or not). Kristen Bell finds herself in some very funny "moves" with hilarious Russell Brand but nothing in the nudity realm. The whole films draws from the same well as many of the recent trend of relationship comedies do - language, sex, etc. - but I don't think this one was as over-the-top as others.
Plus, how can you not love a musical about Dracula with puppets (done by Jim Henson's company no less)? That is just all kinds of awesome. The scenes done in Hawaii were also very pleasant - gave the film an interesting locale to play out most of the comedic situations and drama.
All in all, I enjoyed it a lot. Worth the wait to finally see it.
Comics of the Week (5/28/09)
Batman: the Brave and the Bold #5 - again, a fun comic for kids or fans of the TV cartoon (I'm the later, of course). A rather typical use of Captain Marvel in a story where the villain is after a bunch of kids and adults can't break in.
Green Lantern #41 - more of the Agent Orange arc as we learn just what the Guardians wanted in exchange for giving the Spider-Guild free reign of Vega System. Again, Johns does a great job of filling in the little pieces of missing GL history. Nice.
Justice League of America #33 - I am enjoying this new mixed line up without the big three and others who have books. A lot of focus on using the Milestone characters as well but that's to be expected since McDuffie had his hand in creating that line back in the 90's. It does make for some refreshing reading.
Justice Society of America #27 - Jerry Ordway is drawing on what he knows best - past stuff from Infinity Inc. and All-Star Squadron. This is good in that this book should draw from the rich history of the DCU every now and again. After all, this is THE legacy team book. Nice.
Teen Titans #71 - mostly this is about how a square peg like Ravager can't fit in with the team, allowing for her spin-off in her solo feature next issue. Still, the line-up is refreshingly different from previous Titans incarnations, making it something new to read. This creative team continues to grow with every issue and I am enjoying it.
Trinity #52 - the final issue with a great gatefold cover. Busiek and Bagley manage to tie-up all the loose ends with a fun narrative framing. This was a good series even if, for the most part, it may not have huge ramifications on the rest of the line overall. It was like reading weekly chapters of a grand novel that tried to celebrate as much of the DCU as it could while still focusing on the real point - the importance of the big three. If you didn't read each issue, the trades might be the way to go (certainly a bit cheaper).
Green Lantern #41 - more of the Agent Orange arc as we learn just what the Guardians wanted in exchange for giving the Spider-Guild free reign of Vega System. Again, Johns does a great job of filling in the little pieces of missing GL history. Nice.
Justice League of America #33 - I am enjoying this new mixed line up without the big three and others who have books. A lot of focus on using the Milestone characters as well but that's to be expected since McDuffie had his hand in creating that line back in the 90's. It does make for some refreshing reading.
Justice Society of America #27 - Jerry Ordway is drawing on what he knows best - past stuff from Infinity Inc. and All-Star Squadron. This is good in that this book should draw from the rich history of the DCU every now and again. After all, this is THE legacy team book. Nice.
Teen Titans #71 - mostly this is about how a square peg like Ravager can't fit in with the team, allowing for her spin-off in her solo feature next issue. Still, the line-up is refreshingly different from previous Titans incarnations, making it something new to read. This creative team continues to grow with every issue and I am enjoying it.
Trinity #52 - the final issue with a great gatefold cover. Busiek and Bagley manage to tie-up all the loose ends with a fun narrative framing. This was a good series even if, for the most part, it may not have huge ramifications on the rest of the line overall. It was like reading weekly chapters of a grand novel that tried to celebrate as much of the DCU as it could while still focusing on the real point - the importance of the big three. If you didn't read each issue, the trades might be the way to go (certainly a bit cheaper).
Friday, May 29, 2009
DVD review - Buffy season 4 episodes 20, 21 and 22
Concluding my viewing and reviewing of season 4 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer...
***SPOILERS***
B4-20: the Yoko Factor
Synopsis: As Spike and Adam plot to drive a wedge between Buffy and her friends, Angel returns to Sunnydale only to be attacked by Riley and a group of Initiative commandos. (written by Doug Petrie, airdate 5/9/00)
Got love Spike, the master of manipulation. With some properly worded references, he manages to make Giles feel like a total incompetent (right after startling the ex-Watcher in the middle of a "Freebird" jam session and leading to some wonderful drunken antics and lines), to make Xander's insecurities of not belonging resurface again, and to make Willow upset about her recent life changes (magic devotion versus computers, and being with Tara). Of course, he doesn't have to work much on Buffy - the meeting of Angel and Riley plus Xander's spilling untold details to Riley about Buffy's first love was enough to tip the Slayer over the edge. This all leads to a huge blow up for the Scoobies. I'm dismayed that Anya and Tara retreat to the safety of Giles' bathroom - those two have the most level heads at this point and either one could have easily spilled out the name Spike. But they didn't, and the group falls apart. Loved how Spike explained it as the Yoko Factor to Adam, and Adam's response regarding the Beatles is that he likes "Helter Skelter". So fitting. The shocker, though, at the end is when Riley bolts after learning of Forrest's death and goes straight to Adam. To be continued? Arrrrgh. Time to change my viewing habits and finish off Buffy season 4 first.
B4-21: Primeval
Synopsis: Xander, Willow and Giles join forces to magically imbue Buffy with supernatural powers in order to do battle against Adam and overthrow his plans for creating a "demonoid" army. (written by David Fury, airdate 5/16/00)
Wow - so even dead we get another Professor Walsh shocker. She chipped Riley and planned a whole army of Adams. Adam plans to continue the work by converting his "brother" Riley. And he's already done it to Forrest. Ewwww. I love how Spike realizes his plan screwed up and then he later forget and says something about the gang splitting up to Buffy (she never mentioned it). Buffy puts two and two together, gathers Willow, Xander and Giles, and together they make amends to face the big bad foe (based on Xander's suggestion no less). The big battle of demons versus soldiers is well done, while the heroes power up Buffy to take on Adam. I loved how Riley realizes what he must do to get out of Adam's control - it shows how he can make the hard decision for what is right. He even has to kill his old friend who really is beyond saving at this point. I do love how Spike ends up saving the warn out spellcasters from becoming easy demon prey - just to show, again, how he'll flip flop to whatever side is best for him. Overall, a great payoff to the year long subplot involving the Initiative.
B4-22: Restless
Synopsis: After battling Adam, an exhausted Buffy, Willow, Xander and Giles all experience dreams in which they encounter a strange, savage woman - and the Cheese Man. (written by Joss Whedon, airdate 5/23/00)
This one just blew me away. So much weirdness in the dreams, so much symbolism. I'm going to need to watch it over again just to see what all I missed. Well written by Joss. It was very dream-like. Some high points: in Willow's dream, the curtains reminded me of Twin Peaks and nice touches that she is going to take drama but has a performance fear and Harmony is there and Giles is directing; in Xander's dream, it is a lot about sex as guys his age often think about plus his trying to figure out where he is going but always ending up back in the basement; in Giles' dream, his being a father to Buffy and the gnomes about Spike's crypt and his singing the revelations from stage and Anya doing horrible stand-up; and finally Buffy's dream where Joyce is in the wall and Tara communicates for the first Slayer and Buffy figures it all out and renounces it, breaking the cycle and saving the others. A fantastic episode and a nice way to end the season on a different note.
***SPOILERS***
B4-20: the Yoko Factor
Synopsis: As Spike and Adam plot to drive a wedge between Buffy and her friends, Angel returns to Sunnydale only to be attacked by Riley and a group of Initiative commandos. (written by Doug Petrie, airdate 5/9/00)
Got love Spike, the master of manipulation. With some properly worded references, he manages to make Giles feel like a total incompetent (right after startling the ex-Watcher in the middle of a "Freebird" jam session and leading to some wonderful drunken antics and lines), to make Xander's insecurities of not belonging resurface again, and to make Willow upset about her recent life changes (magic devotion versus computers, and being with Tara). Of course, he doesn't have to work much on Buffy - the meeting of Angel and Riley plus Xander's spilling untold details to Riley about Buffy's first love was enough to tip the Slayer over the edge. This all leads to a huge blow up for the Scoobies. I'm dismayed that Anya and Tara retreat to the safety of Giles' bathroom - those two have the most level heads at this point and either one could have easily spilled out the name Spike. But they didn't, and the group falls apart. Loved how Spike explained it as the Yoko Factor to Adam, and Adam's response regarding the Beatles is that he likes "Helter Skelter". So fitting. The shocker, though, at the end is when Riley bolts after learning of Forrest's death and goes straight to Adam. To be continued? Arrrrgh. Time to change my viewing habits and finish off Buffy season 4 first.
B4-21: Primeval
Synopsis: Xander, Willow and Giles join forces to magically imbue Buffy with supernatural powers in order to do battle against Adam and overthrow his plans for creating a "demonoid" army. (written by David Fury, airdate 5/16/00)
Wow - so even dead we get another Professor Walsh shocker. She chipped Riley and planned a whole army of Adams. Adam plans to continue the work by converting his "brother" Riley. And he's already done it to Forrest. Ewwww. I love how Spike realizes his plan screwed up and then he later forget and says something about the gang splitting up to Buffy (she never mentioned it). Buffy puts two and two together, gathers Willow, Xander and Giles, and together they make amends to face the big bad foe (based on Xander's suggestion no less). The big battle of demons versus soldiers is well done, while the heroes power up Buffy to take on Adam. I loved how Riley realizes what he must do to get out of Adam's control - it shows how he can make the hard decision for what is right. He even has to kill his old friend who really is beyond saving at this point. I do love how Spike ends up saving the warn out spellcasters from becoming easy demon prey - just to show, again, how he'll flip flop to whatever side is best for him. Overall, a great payoff to the year long subplot involving the Initiative.
B4-22: Restless
Synopsis: After battling Adam, an exhausted Buffy, Willow, Xander and Giles all experience dreams in which they encounter a strange, savage woman - and the Cheese Man. (written by Joss Whedon, airdate 5/23/00)
This one just blew me away. So much weirdness in the dreams, so much symbolism. I'm going to need to watch it over again just to see what all I missed. Well written by Joss. It was very dream-like. Some high points: in Willow's dream, the curtains reminded me of Twin Peaks and nice touches that she is going to take drama but has a performance fear and Harmony is there and Giles is directing; in Xander's dream, it is a lot about sex as guys his age often think about plus his trying to figure out where he is going but always ending up back in the basement; in Giles' dream, his being a father to Buffy and the gnomes about Spike's crypt and his singing the revelations from stage and Anya doing horrible stand-up; and finally Buffy's dream where Joyce is in the wall and Tara communicates for the first Slayer and Buffy figures it all out and renounces it, breaking the cycle and saving the others. A fantastic episode and a nice way to end the season on a different note.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
DVD review - Buffy season 4/Angel season 1 episodes 19
Continuing with my viewing and reviewing of season 4 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and season 1 of Angel...
***SPOILERS***
B4-19: New Moon Rising
Synopsis: Oz's surprise return to Sunnydale causes complications in Willow's current love life and leads to his transformation into a werewolf and subsequent capture by Riley. (written by Marti Noxn, airdate 5/2/00)
This episode is all about how people change when they are apart. Oz physically changed with all of his world travelling and studies to keep his werewolf side under wraps. Willow however has emotionally changed, over the heartbreak of Oz's leaving and discovering new love with Tara. When he comes back ready to pick up where they left off, Willow cannot. Someone is going to get hurt. And it was almost Tara when Oz smelled Willow's scent on her and realized what was going on. But the tension here is paralleled too by the tension between Buffy and Riley, given that Buffy had yet to tell him about her past with a vampire. Also moment of awkward when Buffy realizes that Willow is batting for the other team, but in the end she accepts it as a good friend should. I liked how Riley stepped up though when he realized the wolf was Oz and how he risked his own career to try and break out the gang's friend. The gang, of course, has to do their own risky operation to get into the base and spring them both. They, of course, didn't realize Spike and his unseen new partner, Adam, made it a bit easier for them. Poor Anya - if she found out she wasn't as good a computer hacker she'll never get another high five. LOL. Allyson gave a great performance here as the one torn between two lovers - and that ending scene with Tara was played out well (simple and subtle, fade to black - to avoid any network censoring issues).
A1-19: Sanctuary
Synopsis: Convinced Faith is capable of changing her ways, Angel tries to help her even as Kate, the Watchers Council and Buffy continue to hunt her down. (written by Minear and Whedon, airdate 5/2/00)
Only Angle can understand what Faith is going through - how she has to deal with what she has done, accept it and make amends in order for the healing process to happen. He's done this for over 100 years. Angel risks his friendships with the beaten Cordelia and Wesley over it because it is about saving souls, and Faith qualifies. But it won't be easy. Not with Wolfram & Hart sending a demon to kill them, or with Lindsey then going to Kate to use the police and proper channels to solve W&H's problems. And not with the Council finding Wesley and trying to use him to get their revenge on the Slayer who made a mockery of them. Just as Angel is about to make a break thru, Buffy shows up and ups the tension quota. Wesley returns, but to warn them - because he can't, in good conscience, betray Angel no matter Faith did. But the warning isn't soon enough, leading to a huge throw down with the Council. Buffy has to put her anger aside to help Faith, and Wesley proves his loyalty once more. When Angel is arrested by Kate for harboring a fugitive, all are surprised at what they find - Faith has run but turned herself in. She makes that one step towards redemption. That doesn't stop Buffy and Angel for having one more final argument - but Buffy lacks the maturity to see it all for what it is, and Angel, despite years of wisdom, blows his cool and tells her to go home. Is this their final talk? Can it end on this note? I'm thinking not. Definitely a solid episode, very powerful and emotional. I expect nothing less when Joss is involved in the writing.
Boy, if I had seen these back to back on 5/2/00, I would have felt totally drained. A great TV night to be sure.
***SPOILERS***
B4-19: New Moon Rising
Synopsis: Oz's surprise return to Sunnydale causes complications in Willow's current love life and leads to his transformation into a werewolf and subsequent capture by Riley. (written by Marti Noxn, airdate 5/2/00)
This episode is all about how people change when they are apart. Oz physically changed with all of his world travelling and studies to keep his werewolf side under wraps. Willow however has emotionally changed, over the heartbreak of Oz's leaving and discovering new love with Tara. When he comes back ready to pick up where they left off, Willow cannot. Someone is going to get hurt. And it was almost Tara when Oz smelled Willow's scent on her and realized what was going on. But the tension here is paralleled too by the tension between Buffy and Riley, given that Buffy had yet to tell him about her past with a vampire. Also moment of awkward when Buffy realizes that Willow is batting for the other team, but in the end she accepts it as a good friend should. I liked how Riley stepped up though when he realized the wolf was Oz and how he risked his own career to try and break out the gang's friend. The gang, of course, has to do their own risky operation to get into the base and spring them both. They, of course, didn't realize Spike and his unseen new partner, Adam, made it a bit easier for them. Poor Anya - if she found out she wasn't as good a computer hacker she'll never get another high five. LOL. Allyson gave a great performance here as the one torn between two lovers - and that ending scene with Tara was played out well (simple and subtle, fade to black - to avoid any network censoring issues).
A1-19: Sanctuary
Synopsis: Convinced Faith is capable of changing her ways, Angel tries to help her even as Kate, the Watchers Council and Buffy continue to hunt her down. (written by Minear and Whedon, airdate 5/2/00)
Only Angle can understand what Faith is going through - how she has to deal with what she has done, accept it and make amends in order for the healing process to happen. He's done this for over 100 years. Angel risks his friendships with the beaten Cordelia and Wesley over it because it is about saving souls, and Faith qualifies. But it won't be easy. Not with Wolfram & Hart sending a demon to kill them, or with Lindsey then going to Kate to use the police and proper channels to solve W&H's problems. And not with the Council finding Wesley and trying to use him to get their revenge on the Slayer who made a mockery of them. Just as Angel is about to make a break thru, Buffy shows up and ups the tension quota. Wesley returns, but to warn them - because he can't, in good conscience, betray Angel no matter Faith did. But the warning isn't soon enough, leading to a huge throw down with the Council. Buffy has to put her anger aside to help Faith, and Wesley proves his loyalty once more. When Angel is arrested by Kate for harboring a fugitive, all are surprised at what they find - Faith has run but turned herself in. She makes that one step towards redemption. That doesn't stop Buffy and Angel for having one more final argument - but Buffy lacks the maturity to see it all for what it is, and Angel, despite years of wisdom, blows his cool and tells her to go home. Is this their final talk? Can it end on this note? I'm thinking not. Definitely a solid episode, very powerful and emotional. I expect nothing less when Joss is involved in the writing.
Boy, if I had seen these back to back on 5/2/00, I would have felt totally drained. A great TV night to be sure.
Monday, May 25, 2009
DVD review - Buffy season 4/Angel season 1 episodes 18
Continuing with my viewing and reviewing of season 4 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and season 1 of Angel...
***SPOILERS***
B4-18: Where the Wild Things Are
Synopsis: While Adam is recruiting an army of vampires and demons, Riley and Buffy's passionate lovemaking unleashes a group of poltergeists inside a frat house. (written by Tracey Forbes, airdate 4/25/00)
I echo Xander's comment: what is up with the SU Frat houses? Season 2 the guys worshipped a giant-snake. Early in season 4, one got all haunted. Now this. I didn't like it initially but I thought about it overnight and realized this was a good way to spotlight the gang by keeping Buffy and Riley out of it (doing the deed that caused the chaos). I loved the dynamics of the Xander/Anya relationship - especially with them discussing it in the ice cream truck where Xander is doing neighborhood deliveries. Can he ever hold down a job for more than a week? Not by having that discussion in front of a crowd of customers, including kids. LOL. Some good conversation between Spike and Anya as they commiserate about love. Of course, when all things go crazy at the frat house as everyone is getting hormonal, the Scoobies turn to Giles - who is off singing at the Expresso Pump. Wow - just wow. Anthony does have a pleasant singing voice. And when did Rupert start wearing an earring (I just noticed in this episode)? Great stuff with Mrs. Holt, the woman responsible for the pent-up frustrations of the dirty little spirits. Loved Xander's "she who smelt it dealt it" come-back. In the end, great teamwork - Tara leading the spell with Willow and Giles while Xander and Anya hack their way into breaking up Buffy and Riley's heated antics.
A1-18: Five By Five
Synopsis: Wolfram & Hart approach Faith with a promise to get all the murder charges she faces back in Sunnydale dropped in exchange for one small favor - killing Angel. (written by Jim Kouf, airdate 4/25/00)
Once again, I enjoyed the flashbacks that flesh out Angel's past with Darla. Seems she ended up being his downfall by bringing him a gypsy to feed on - thus leading to the curse and her final revulsion of him when he has a soul. A good parallel, of sorts, to the today storyline of Faith coming to LA, causing tons of trouble and then being approached by W&H to get rid of the thorn in their side. At first, I thought the writer didn't have Faith down - it seemed off - but eventually it started to gel. Loved how phantom Dennis tried to warn of Cordelia and Wesley. Of course, Faith is going to take Wes as both bait and torture. She feels he is the reason for her failures as a Slayer, because he wasn't as good of a Watcher as Giles is to Buffy. This picks up on Faith from B4-16 "Who Are You?" when Faith has her breakdown of self-hating. She is trying to be bad because that is what she thinks everyone expects of her. Good for Wesley to resist her - showing a ton of character. It parallels in ways when Giles stayed strong to Angelus' torture in season 2 of Buffy. In the end, Angel arrives and knows that Faith needs to work it out - and he lets her mostly by not putting up as much of a fight. Wesley is ready to kill her if need be but doesn't - realizing his boss understands Faith's torment and is probably the best person to help her get through it. Solid episode.
***SPOILERS***
B4-18: Where the Wild Things Are
Synopsis: While Adam is recruiting an army of vampires and demons, Riley and Buffy's passionate lovemaking unleashes a group of poltergeists inside a frat house. (written by Tracey Forbes, airdate 4/25/00)
I echo Xander's comment: what is up with the SU Frat houses? Season 2 the guys worshipped a giant-snake. Early in season 4, one got all haunted. Now this. I didn't like it initially but I thought about it overnight and realized this was a good way to spotlight the gang by keeping Buffy and Riley out of it (doing the deed that caused the chaos). I loved the dynamics of the Xander/Anya relationship - especially with them discussing it in the ice cream truck where Xander is doing neighborhood deliveries. Can he ever hold down a job for more than a week? Not by having that discussion in front of a crowd of customers, including kids. LOL. Some good conversation between Spike and Anya as they commiserate about love. Of course, when all things go crazy at the frat house as everyone is getting hormonal, the Scoobies turn to Giles - who is off singing at the Expresso Pump. Wow - just wow. Anthony does have a pleasant singing voice. And when did Rupert start wearing an earring (I just noticed in this episode)? Great stuff with Mrs. Holt, the woman responsible for the pent-up frustrations of the dirty little spirits. Loved Xander's "she who smelt it dealt it" come-back. In the end, great teamwork - Tara leading the spell with Willow and Giles while Xander and Anya hack their way into breaking up Buffy and Riley's heated antics.
A1-18: Five By Five
Synopsis: Wolfram & Hart approach Faith with a promise to get all the murder charges she faces back in Sunnydale dropped in exchange for one small favor - killing Angel. (written by Jim Kouf, airdate 4/25/00)
Once again, I enjoyed the flashbacks that flesh out Angel's past with Darla. Seems she ended up being his downfall by bringing him a gypsy to feed on - thus leading to the curse and her final revulsion of him when he has a soul. A good parallel, of sorts, to the today storyline of Faith coming to LA, causing tons of trouble and then being approached by W&H to get rid of the thorn in their side. At first, I thought the writer didn't have Faith down - it seemed off - but eventually it started to gel. Loved how phantom Dennis tried to warn of Cordelia and Wesley. Of course, Faith is going to take Wes as both bait and torture. She feels he is the reason for her failures as a Slayer, because he wasn't as good of a Watcher as Giles is to Buffy. This picks up on Faith from B4-16 "Who Are You?" when Faith has her breakdown of self-hating. She is trying to be bad because that is what she thinks everyone expects of her. Good for Wesley to resist her - showing a ton of character. It parallels in ways when Giles stayed strong to Angelus' torture in season 2 of Buffy. In the end, Angel arrives and knows that Faith needs to work it out - and he lets her mostly by not putting up as much of a fight. Wesley is ready to kill her if need be but doesn't - realizing his boss understands Faith's torment and is probably the best person to help her get through it. Solid episode.
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