Concluding my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 5...
SPOILERS
A5-21: Power Play (written by David Fury, airdate 5/12/04)
I was never thrilled with the Nina character, so her final appearances in this episode didn't mean much to me. Interesting play of what Angel does to enter the Circle of the Black Thorn - I like the deception, the confusion and the plan to put in one last strike. He knows they can't win the war - not really - but Angel plans to give them a helluva battle. Good to see Drogan brought back in, even if it is for some final moments before the series ended. Loved he and Illyria playing video games (and that Spike would suggest "Crash Bandicoot" for them). Good scene with the guys - when Angel reveals his plan and gets the buy-in. All do in their own way. But have they fooled Hamilton and the powers? Hmmm.... A solid set up for a series finale. One last fight.
A5-22: Not Fade Away (written by Whedon and Bell, airdate 5/19/04)
Some great stuff here - Angel willing to sign away his chance for humanity, Harmony feeling left out and wanting to help (only to end up a betrayer - which Angel planned all along!), Lindsey signing on for the fight - much to Eve's dismay - and then after helping he gets his just desserts - from Loren no less(!) (was this part of Angel's plan all along? Hard to say. Loved Loren's making this his own final curtain call as this business of fighting never suited him.). One of the best lines comes from Vail - "I crap better magic than this". That wicked one does Wes in, and we get a tear-jerker moment with Illyria and Wes before he shuffles off (with her as "Fred"). Connor back - and for once I was okay with his appearances - and he helps Angel with Hamilton. Another cool part - Angel goes for blood from Hamilton, to get a true taste of that power to use for his fight. This is enough to bring the whole law firm down.
As for the ending, well, it seems like more a season finale rather than a series one. So sad to see us not getting to see how the remainder of the gang will keep up the fight against the army of demons after them. We know they'll fight on until they can no longer. It leaves this up to the viewers' imagination.
Showing posts with label Angel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Angel. Show all posts
Saturday, September 12, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 5 episodes 19 and 20
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 5...
SPOILERS
A5-19: Time Bomb (written by Ben Edlund, airdate 4/28/04)
Despite Illyria saving Gunn from the W&H hell (nice thinking on how to get beyond that necklace bit), Angel still doesn't trust her. He wants her gone - dead. But she's suffering from something - time jumps - and that sort of puts a weird spin to this whole episode. Folks are dead - no, they're not. Confusing conversations and what not. But in the end, she is relieved of her incredible power and Angel realizes some good advice: serve no master by your ambition. Um, Angel - haven't we been driving this message home to you for a number of episodes? Since Cordelia gave you her final parting gift? Come on, a little slow on the uptake much?
A5-20: The Girl In Question (written by DeKnight and Goddard, airdate 5/5/04)
This one really plays out like an oddball comedy - with Spike and Angel in the roles of the buddies in Rome. It works, in part, due to the flashbacks (good to see Dru and Darla again, one final time) and the full on farce of the Italians. Love how the Rome W&H branch looks exactly like the LA offices. Very fun and funny - and the guys learn the valuable lesson from, of all people, Andrew: maybe its time to grow up and change. Meanwhile, Illyria incurs the ire of Wesley when she poses as Fred to fool the Burkles. Not a smart move, blue haired one.
Two down...two to go. I'm expecting some fireworks as right now it is like we've been treading water too long.
SPOILERS
A5-19: Time Bomb (written by Ben Edlund, airdate 4/28/04)
Despite Illyria saving Gunn from the W&H hell (nice thinking on how to get beyond that necklace bit), Angel still doesn't trust her. He wants her gone - dead. But she's suffering from something - time jumps - and that sort of puts a weird spin to this whole episode. Folks are dead - no, they're not. Confusing conversations and what not. But in the end, she is relieved of her incredible power and Angel realizes some good advice: serve no master by your ambition. Um, Angel - haven't we been driving this message home to you for a number of episodes? Since Cordelia gave you her final parting gift? Come on, a little slow on the uptake much?
A5-20: The Girl In Question (written by DeKnight and Goddard, airdate 5/5/04)
This one really plays out like an oddball comedy - with Spike and Angel in the roles of the buddies in Rome. It works, in part, due to the flashbacks (good to see Dru and Darla again, one final time) and the full on farce of the Italians. Love how the Rome W&H branch looks exactly like the LA offices. Very fun and funny - and the guys learn the valuable lesson from, of all people, Andrew: maybe its time to grow up and change. Meanwhile, Illyria incurs the ire of Wesley when she poses as Fred to fool the Burkles. Not a smart move, blue haired one.
Two down...two to go. I'm expecting some fireworks as right now it is like we've been treading water too long.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 5 episodes 17 and 18
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 5...
SPOILERS
A5-17: Underneath (written by Craft and Fain, airdate 4/14/04)
Love how Spike shows up for the meeting with a briefcase and beer. Now that's how to handle a transition to corporate life. And, dang, Adam Baldwin makes his "Buffyverse" debut as Marcus Hamilton, a bad-to-the-bone new liason to the Senior Partners. Nice. Joss sure likes to recast from his pool of favorites from other shows, doesn't he? Oh, and finally Harmony gets into the show's credits. Nice too. I actually find her character enjoyable so seeing her have a bigger part in the last six episodes is good. Loved the version of Hell - a holding pergatory if you will - that Lindsey is put into and how the guys have to mount a rescue. Hey, Spike watches Knight Rider - too funny. But, man, is this a deadly place with bullets a flying. Nice move on Gunn's part to sacrifice himself to stay behind - he is really feeling he deserves the punishment for his part in Fred's death. Speaking of, loved Illyria's reference to the one world where there is nothing but shrimp (a reference to something Anya brought up many times over on Buffy). A good episode.
A5-18: Origin (written by Drew Goddard, airdate 4/21/04)
Ugh...Connor is back. I so never liked Connor before (grown up Connor, the baby was acceptable). Naturally the writers felt they had to tie-up this loose end before the show's finale. Still, blah. And all this talk about Angel getting back to the mission and what do we do? We get a personal thing. Yawn. Not even seeing old Sahjhan helped here. Vail is sort of interesting in a creepy way. Oh, and Wes makes a fateful decision that only ends up causing him more grief and confusion. Two saving graces: Spike testing Illyria (or was she testing him?) and Hamilton's brief talk with Gunn (where Gunn shows he's not about to make the same mistake twice).
Four left...still waiting to be really blown away...
SPOILERS
A5-17: Underneath (written by Craft and Fain, airdate 4/14/04)
Love how Spike shows up for the meeting with a briefcase and beer. Now that's how to handle a transition to corporate life. And, dang, Adam Baldwin makes his "Buffyverse" debut as Marcus Hamilton, a bad-to-the-bone new liason to the Senior Partners. Nice. Joss sure likes to recast from his pool of favorites from other shows, doesn't he? Oh, and finally Harmony gets into the show's credits. Nice too. I actually find her character enjoyable so seeing her have a bigger part in the last six episodes is good. Loved the version of Hell - a holding pergatory if you will - that Lindsey is put into and how the guys have to mount a rescue. Hey, Spike watches Knight Rider - too funny. But, man, is this a deadly place with bullets a flying. Nice move on Gunn's part to sacrifice himself to stay behind - he is really feeling he deserves the punishment for his part in Fred's death. Speaking of, loved Illyria's reference to the one world where there is nothing but shrimp (a reference to something Anya brought up many times over on Buffy). A good episode.
A5-18: Origin (written by Drew Goddard, airdate 4/21/04)
Ugh...Connor is back. I so never liked Connor before (grown up Connor, the baby was acceptable). Naturally the writers felt they had to tie-up this loose end before the show's finale. Still, blah. And all this talk about Angel getting back to the mission and what do we do? We get a personal thing. Yawn. Not even seeing old Sahjhan helped here. Vail is sort of interesting in a creepy way. Oh, and Wes makes a fateful decision that only ends up causing him more grief and confusion. Two saving graces: Spike testing Illyria (or was she testing him?) and Hamilton's brief talk with Gunn (where Gunn shows he's not about to make the same mistake twice).
Four left...still waiting to be really blown away...
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 5 episodes 15 and 16
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 5...
SPOILERS
A5-15: A Hole In the World (written by Joss Whedon, airdate 2/24/04)
Again, Joss takes the reins to spin this show into its final major arc - with some serious repercussions. It can't get any more serious than his terminating the most new relationship of Wesley and Fred but using the one thing that can permanently break them apart - death. Alexis and Amy did an outstanding job on their scenes together as Fred succumbs to the infection that will bring upon Illyria. And though the guys put up a strong front at her bedside, they all know how serious this thing is. And it hits them all in many ways. Gunn faces himself in the White Room, a foreshadow to how he'll have to come to terms with what his actions have done that lead to Fred's death. Loren shows his dark side when he threatens Eve. Angel and Spike bury their petty arguments to work together in England. And Knox is revealed to be a true snake. In the argument of cavemen vs. astronauts, it looks like the cavemen (the old ones) win this round.
A5-16: Shells (written by Steven DeKnight, airdate 3/3/04)
Wes faces Illyria and realizes that all hope and love in his world is gone. He again begins that slide down the dark road, at a faster rate. Last episode, he shot to injure a law firm guy for not helping on Fred's problem. This episode, he stabs Gunn - a payback for the knife in the back Gunn accidentally put to the group, and then Wes shoots Knox dead. Just as Fred is nothing but a shell for Illyria, Wes is becoming the shell of the former man he was. Harmony steps up - as this group needs a female to help hold them together (first with Cordy gone and now Fred). She is eager to torture Knox for Gunn and later is the only one who will still face Gunn. I wasn't so hot on the ending where Illyria, after realizing her world and army are gone, turns to Wes to understand this new world - and that Wes would even entertain helping her. I know he has lost Fred and she looks like Fred, but surely even he can't be so blinded by his grief to think this is a good idea, can he?
Counting down to the final six episodes of the series...
SPOILERS
A5-15: A Hole In the World (written by Joss Whedon, airdate 2/24/04)
Again, Joss takes the reins to spin this show into its final major arc - with some serious repercussions. It can't get any more serious than his terminating the most new relationship of Wesley and Fred but using the one thing that can permanently break them apart - death. Alexis and Amy did an outstanding job on their scenes together as Fred succumbs to the infection that will bring upon Illyria. And though the guys put up a strong front at her bedside, they all know how serious this thing is. And it hits them all in many ways. Gunn faces himself in the White Room, a foreshadow to how he'll have to come to terms with what his actions have done that lead to Fred's death. Loren shows his dark side when he threatens Eve. Angel and Spike bury their petty arguments to work together in England. And Knox is revealed to be a true snake. In the argument of cavemen vs. astronauts, it looks like the cavemen (the old ones) win this round.
A5-16: Shells (written by Steven DeKnight, airdate 3/3/04)
Wes faces Illyria and realizes that all hope and love in his world is gone. He again begins that slide down the dark road, at a faster rate. Last episode, he shot to injure a law firm guy for not helping on Fred's problem. This episode, he stabs Gunn - a payback for the knife in the back Gunn accidentally put to the group, and then Wes shoots Knox dead. Just as Fred is nothing but a shell for Illyria, Wes is becoming the shell of the former man he was. Harmony steps up - as this group needs a female to help hold them together (first with Cordy gone and now Fred). She is eager to torture Knox for Gunn and later is the only one who will still face Gunn. I wasn't so hot on the ending where Illyria, after realizing her world and army are gone, turns to Wes to understand this new world - and that Wes would even entertain helping her. I know he has lost Fred and she looks like Fred, but surely even he can't be so blinded by his grief to think this is a good idea, can he?
Counting down to the final six episodes of the series...
Monday, September 7, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 5 episodes 13 and 14
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 5...
SPOILERS
A5-12: Why We Fight (written by Goddard and DeKnight, airdate 2/11/04)
I always enjoy flashbacks - especially when they involve both Angel and Spike. This time, back to the big one - WWII. The Demon Research Initiative (early roots of the Initiative) enlist Angel to retrieve a Nazi sub, only to find Spike and two other vamps also involved. Of course, the mission nearly goes south and Angel has to make a fateful decision, one that comes back to haunt him sixty years later. Lawson continues the lesson Angel has been getting lately - the difference between orders and purpose. Kind of a shame though that Lawson didn't get to meet modern day Spike though. Ah well.
A5-13: Smile Time (written by Whedon and Edlund, airdate 2/18/04)
I'll give this one some props for a couple reasons. First, Joss found a way to work Muppets into the show (being his father was a writer for the Muppets and all). Second, how perfect was puppet-Angel? Yeah, that perfect. And the fight with Spike - priceless! Too funny. I could have done without werewolf-Nina again. I found her boring before and boring still. I just couldn't see Angel turning to her after his loss of Cordelia just weeks before. It didn't ring true to me at all. Oh, and how much in it has Gunn gotten by going for the full-upgrade in exchange for favors. This won't turn out well at all.
SPOILERS
A5-12: Why We Fight (written by Goddard and DeKnight, airdate 2/11/04)
I always enjoy flashbacks - especially when they involve both Angel and Spike. This time, back to the big one - WWII. The Demon Research Initiative (early roots of the Initiative) enlist Angel to retrieve a Nazi sub, only to find Spike and two other vamps also involved. Of course, the mission nearly goes south and Angel has to make a fateful decision, one that comes back to haunt him sixty years later. Lawson continues the lesson Angel has been getting lately - the difference between orders and purpose. Kind of a shame though that Lawson didn't get to meet modern day Spike though. Ah well.
A5-13: Smile Time (written by Whedon and Edlund, airdate 2/18/04)
I'll give this one some props for a couple reasons. First, Joss found a way to work Muppets into the show (being his father was a writer for the Muppets and all). Second, how perfect was puppet-Angel? Yeah, that perfect. And the fight with Spike - priceless! Too funny. I could have done without werewolf-Nina again. I found her boring before and boring still. I just couldn't see Angel turning to her after his loss of Cordelia just weeks before. It didn't ring true to me at all. Oh, and how much in it has Gunn gotten by going for the full-upgrade in exchange for favors. This won't turn out well at all.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 5 episodes 11 and 12
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 5...
SPOILERS
A5-11: Damage (written by DeKnight and Goddard, airdate 1/28/04)
This episode had some dark imagery with Dana, the awaken and crazed victim of torture. Turns out she was a potential that got activated by Willow's spell in the Buffy finale. That doesn't bode well for Angel and Spike, especially the later who suffers greatly at her hands (no pun intended) but comes to realize a bit about himself, the nature of evil, and his victims of the past. Hilarious is the return of Andrew as the "expert" sent by Giles to help the W&H gang. Love how Andrew puts Wes in his place and how he is uncontrollably happy to see Spike alive. In the end, thoug, it is Andrew that gets to deliver the crushing blow to Angel and the gang - they are no longer on the same side as Buffy and the Slayers and they are no longer trusted. Ouch. The truth stings.
A5-12: You're Welcome (written by David Fury, airdate 2/4/04)
This episode is great for a number of reasons. First, the return of Cordelia from her coma (yeah!!!) and her presence, her true character, has been missing from this show since early season 4. Next, Eve gets roughed up a bit by Harmony no less (hey, she's evil - she can get away with it). Once again, Harmony delivers the humor even in a tense situation. Finally, Lindsey's plot is revealed and he gets what is coming to him - but not until we get an awesome fight in the core of W&H. Nice. Of course, the end of the episode is very bittersweet as we learn the true fate of Cordelia - but not before she has done her final deed which is to get Angel back on track to his true mission and true purpose. Finally! Again, this is what the show has been missing as the gang has continually strayed from their path with the temptations of the evil empire law firm. I'm looking forward to how the second half of the season spins out.
SPOILERS
A5-11: Damage (written by DeKnight and Goddard, airdate 1/28/04)
This episode had some dark imagery with Dana, the awaken and crazed victim of torture. Turns out she was a potential that got activated by Willow's spell in the Buffy finale. That doesn't bode well for Angel and Spike, especially the later who suffers greatly at her hands (no pun intended) but comes to realize a bit about himself, the nature of evil, and his victims of the past. Hilarious is the return of Andrew as the "expert" sent by Giles to help the W&H gang. Love how Andrew puts Wes in his place and how he is uncontrollably happy to see Spike alive. In the end, thoug, it is Andrew that gets to deliver the crushing blow to Angel and the gang - they are no longer on the same side as Buffy and the Slayers and they are no longer trusted. Ouch. The truth stings.
A5-12: You're Welcome (written by David Fury, airdate 2/4/04)
This episode is great for a number of reasons. First, the return of Cordelia from her coma (yeah!!!) and her presence, her true character, has been missing from this show since early season 4. Next, Eve gets roughed up a bit by Harmony no less (hey, she's evil - she can get away with it). Once again, Harmony delivers the humor even in a tense situation. Finally, Lindsey's plot is revealed and he gets what is coming to him - but not until we get an awesome fight in the core of W&H. Nice. Of course, the end of the episode is very bittersweet as we learn the true fate of Cordelia - but not before she has done her final deed which is to get Angel back on track to his true mission and true purpose. Finally! Again, this is what the show has been missing as the gang has continually strayed from their path with the temptations of the evil empire law firm. I'm looking forward to how the second half of the season spins out.
Friday, September 4, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 5 episodes 9 and 10
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 5...
SPOILERS
A5-9: Harm's Way (written by Fain and Craft, airdate 1/14/04)
I have to admit that I enjoy the Harmony character. She can be funny and sympathetic all at the same time. Nice having an episode focusing on her. It did seem a bit like an office sitcom episode (or something out of "the Twilight Zone" meets "Ally McBeal") but it worked for me.
A5-10: Soul Purpose (written by Brent Fletcher, airdate 1/21/04)
A new writer name in the credits and it wasn't a bad episode. Boreanaz directed this one and that worked well too. Given all the bizarre dreams I've been having this week, I can connect to how they'd stress Angel out. The one where Fred was doing the exam was especially funny. Loved Lindsey's approach to woo Spike - even down to playing the "Doyle" act. He and Eve are a deadly duo and could spell trouble to the gang.
SPOILERS
A5-9: Harm's Way (written by Fain and Craft, airdate 1/14/04)
I have to admit that I enjoy the Harmony character. She can be funny and sympathetic all at the same time. Nice having an episode focusing on her. It did seem a bit like an office sitcom episode (or something out of "the Twilight Zone" meets "Ally McBeal") but it worked for me.
A5-10: Soul Purpose (written by Brent Fletcher, airdate 1/21/04)
A new writer name in the credits and it wasn't a bad episode. Boreanaz directed this one and that worked well too. Given all the bizarre dreams I've been having this week, I can connect to how they'd stress Angel out. The one where Fred was doing the exam was especially funny. Loved Lindsey's approach to woo Spike - even down to playing the "Doyle" act. He and Eve are a deadly duo and could spell trouble to the gang.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 5 episodes 7 and 8
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 5...
SPOILERS
A5-7: Lineage (written by Drew Goddard, airdate 11/12/03)
A very cool episode. Loved the ninja-cyborgs and all that they entailed, especially the one posing as Wes' father. How cool was that? You could totally see Wes revert to insecurities when his "father" arrived. Loved the interplay with the others - especially who Roger reacted to both Angel and Spike (great programming). The fact that Spike fought Wes' dad in 1963 was a very cool thing. Love getting more and more rich facts on my favorite vamp with a soul. I liked the interplay between Spike and Eve - he knows she is up to something. I felt bad for Wes at the end - first not having a chance to tell Fred how he truly feels and then to have his real father criticize him when he calls to check in. So sad. All in all, loved this one.
A5-8: Destiny (written by Fury and DeKnight, airdate 11/19/03)
When we get flashbacks of Angelus and William to parallel today's events, you know it is a good episode. Man, Angelus was a bastard to him back in 1880, wasn't he? Screwing him over by screwing with Dru (literally). Nasty. It only makes sense then as why Spike wants to better Angel, to be the one the prophecy foretold about. Loved that Spike became all corporeal again and his first thoughts are to shag with Harmony. Poor girl - she gives in despite her mind telling her it is a bad idea. Loved the whole race to Death Valley as well as the fight to end all fights between Angel and Spike. And Spike is the victor!!! Awesome. To the victor goes...the Mountain Dew? Ooops. Nice twist there. Even more of twist, Eve returns to an apartment, undresses and climbs in bed with...Lindsey?!? Holy cow - didn't see that one coming! Again, awesome episode. Two in a row. I have a feeling this season is kick starting into high gear now. Good deal!
SPOILERS
A5-7: Lineage (written by Drew Goddard, airdate 11/12/03)
A very cool episode. Loved the ninja-cyborgs and all that they entailed, especially the one posing as Wes' father. How cool was that? You could totally see Wes revert to insecurities when his "father" arrived. Loved the interplay with the others - especially who Roger reacted to both Angel and Spike (great programming). The fact that Spike fought Wes' dad in 1963 was a very cool thing. Love getting more and more rich facts on my favorite vamp with a soul. I liked the interplay between Spike and Eve - he knows she is up to something. I felt bad for Wes at the end - first not having a chance to tell Fred how he truly feels and then to have his real father criticize him when he calls to check in. So sad. All in all, loved this one.
A5-8: Destiny (written by Fury and DeKnight, airdate 11/19/03)
When we get flashbacks of Angelus and William to parallel today's events, you know it is a good episode. Man, Angelus was a bastard to him back in 1880, wasn't he? Screwing him over by screwing with Dru (literally). Nasty. It only makes sense then as why Spike wants to better Angel, to be the one the prophecy foretold about. Loved that Spike became all corporeal again and his first thoughts are to shag with Harmony. Poor girl - she gives in despite her mind telling her it is a bad idea. Loved the whole race to Death Valley as well as the fight to end all fights between Angel and Spike. And Spike is the victor!!! Awesome. To the victor goes...the Mountain Dew? Ooops. Nice twist there. Even more of twist, Eve returns to an apartment, undresses and climbs in bed with...Lindsey?!? Holy cow - didn't see that one coming! Again, awesome episode. Two in a row. I have a feeling this season is kick starting into high gear now. Good deal!
Friday, August 28, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 5 episodes 5 and 6
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 5...
SPOILERS
A5-5: Life of the Party (written by Ben Edlund, airdate 10/29/03)
Halloween episodes are so much fun, especially when Loren is in charge of planning the W&H company party. Lots of great stuff in the episode. I love how Loren gets along so well with Harmony. I enjoy Eve being all mysterious and fun. And, of course, I love the side effects of Loren's subconscious projections due to his depriving himself of sleep. Like the "blood" demon noticing Gunn's change "mmmm, pee pee" - I had to giggle. And Alexis getting to do comedy again with he and Amy playing drunk. Nice. I even liked Spike being all "positive". All in all, a fun one-off episode.
A5-6: the Cautionary Tale of Numbero Uno (written by Jeffrey Bell, airdate 11/5/03)
Okay, I'm not a big fan of luchadores so this episode seemed a little screwy to me. I did like the tying in of the Mexican Day of the Dead. I love the humor Spike brought - going on the mission and getting the frontseat by calling "shotgun" (and Wes thinking that was weapons check - LOL). I also like the idea that maybe Spike and not Angel was the one being spoken of in the Shansu Prophecies. So, a little off beat with some good moments - but certainly not stellar. I'm hoping for more hits and less misses this season.
SPOILERS
A5-5: Life of the Party (written by Ben Edlund, airdate 10/29/03)
Halloween episodes are so much fun, especially when Loren is in charge of planning the W&H company party. Lots of great stuff in the episode. I love how Loren gets along so well with Harmony. I enjoy Eve being all mysterious and fun. And, of course, I love the side effects of Loren's subconscious projections due to his depriving himself of sleep. Like the "blood" demon noticing Gunn's change "mmmm, pee pee" - I had to giggle. And Alexis getting to do comedy again with he and Amy playing drunk. Nice. I even liked Spike being all "positive". All in all, a fun one-off episode.
A5-6: the Cautionary Tale of Numbero Uno (written by Jeffrey Bell, airdate 11/5/03)
Okay, I'm not a big fan of luchadores so this episode seemed a little screwy to me. I did like the tying in of the Mexican Day of the Dead. I love the humor Spike brought - going on the mission and getting the frontseat by calling "shotgun" (and Wes thinking that was weapons check - LOL). I also like the idea that maybe Spike and not Angel was the one being spoken of in the Shansu Prophecies. So, a little off beat with some good moments - but certainly not stellar. I'm hoping for more hits and less misses this season.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 5 episodes 3 and 4
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 5...
SPOILERS
A5-3: Unleashed (written by Fain and Craft, airdate 10/15/03)
Werewolves? Yawn. I didn't find the story of Nina very interesting until she was kidnapped. The idea of the restaurant patrons paying top dollar to eat a delicacy, alive - now that was just twisted enough to be cool. But, beyond that it was a lot of been-there-seen-that type of stuff. I disliked the doctor so I am glad he got what was coming to him. I did like the interactions of Fred with Spike and her promising to find a way to restore him. At least she can be objective about him.
A5-4: Hell Bound (written by Steven S. DeKnight, airdate 10/22/03)
Okay, instant wiggins! I jumped when we saw the basement dude cutting his own fingers. This whole episode had a nice creepy feel to it - this show has been missing a lot of that this season. Again, focus on Spike and Fred's quest to help him gets big props from me. I also loved the talk Angel and Spike finally had (about both being convinced they are both going to Hell someday) - and I had to laugh when Angel admitted he always liked Spike's poems. Bwahahaha. I liked the blonde medium - even for a one-shot character she was very interesting (more so than wolf-Nina last episode). The Reaper was sufficiently creepy. I wonder if we'll see him back out of confinement someday. Loved how Spike sacrificed his own well-being for Fred. Oh, and is just me or does Amy Acker make the word "corporeal" sound really sexy?
SPOILERS
A5-3: Unleashed (written by Fain and Craft, airdate 10/15/03)
Werewolves? Yawn. I didn't find the story of Nina very interesting until she was kidnapped. The idea of the restaurant patrons paying top dollar to eat a delicacy, alive - now that was just twisted enough to be cool. But, beyond that it was a lot of been-there-seen-that type of stuff. I disliked the doctor so I am glad he got what was coming to him. I did like the interactions of Fred with Spike and her promising to find a way to restore him. At least she can be objective about him.
A5-4: Hell Bound (written by Steven S. DeKnight, airdate 10/22/03)
Okay, instant wiggins! I jumped when we saw the basement dude cutting his own fingers. This whole episode had a nice creepy feel to it - this show has been missing a lot of that this season. Again, focus on Spike and Fred's quest to help him gets big props from me. I also loved the talk Angel and Spike finally had (about both being convinced they are both going to Hell someday) - and I had to laugh when Angel admitted he always liked Spike's poems. Bwahahaha. I liked the blonde medium - even for a one-shot character she was very interesting (more so than wolf-Nina last episode). The Reaper was sufficiently creepy. I wonder if we'll see him back out of confinement someday. Loved how Spike sacrificed his own well-being for Fred. Oh, and is just me or does Amy Acker make the word "corporeal" sound really sexy?
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 5 episodes 1 and 2
Beginning my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 5...
SPOILERS
A5-1: Conviction (written by Joss Whedon, airdate 10/1/03)
The gang has to adjust to their new working digs at Wolfram & Hart as well as the staff, and some have bigger problems to deal with than others. Angel plans to do things his way. Agent Howser and the Special Ops. team had to learn this lesson the hard way. Meanwhile, Gunn gains some skills to support the team - in a rather painful method (but damn, he does look good in a suit). Two staff members that stand out - Eve (and her oh so connectedness to the Senior Partners - I smell trouble) and Harmony (our favorite vamp-girl-Friday is back as Angel's administrative assistant - she should bring some much needed humor to the group). Gone from the credits are Charisma (boooo!!!!) and Vincent (YEAH!!!! No more Connor on a regular basis!), and in is James (YES!!!!!) The latter makes a great series debut, in a total state of confusion.
A5-2: Just Rewards (written by Fury and Edlund, airdate 10/8/03)
Nice start with the flashback to Buffy's series finale (only 19 days ago? Hmmm... and she's already off to Europe). Then the other shoe drops - yes, Spike is back but he's doing the whole annoying spirit thing. Good for him, not good for Angel. Lots of tension and lots of humor comes out of all this. Nice to see these two characters really get into it. That's a good sign of the season to come. I found Magnus Hansely to be an interesting opponent, even if he was taken out in the end (rather nicely by the old double-double-cross bit). Somehow, a necromancer being killed might not be too much of an impedient (one can hope). I like how the others reacted to Spike's return too (Harmony especially) and he should present some interesting dynamics with the likes of Wes and Fred too.
SPOILERS
A5-1: Conviction (written by Joss Whedon, airdate 10/1/03)
The gang has to adjust to their new working digs at Wolfram & Hart as well as the staff, and some have bigger problems to deal with than others. Angel plans to do things his way. Agent Howser and the Special Ops. team had to learn this lesson the hard way. Meanwhile, Gunn gains some skills to support the team - in a rather painful method (but damn, he does look good in a suit). Two staff members that stand out - Eve (and her oh so connectedness to the Senior Partners - I smell trouble) and Harmony (our favorite vamp-girl-Friday is back as Angel's administrative assistant - she should bring some much needed humor to the group). Gone from the credits are Charisma (boooo!!!!) and Vincent (YEAH!!!! No more Connor on a regular basis!), and in is James (YES!!!!!) The latter makes a great series debut, in a total state of confusion.
A5-2: Just Rewards (written by Fury and Edlund, airdate 10/8/03)
Nice start with the flashback to Buffy's series finale (only 19 days ago? Hmmm... and she's already off to Europe). Then the other shoe drops - yes, Spike is back but he's doing the whole annoying spirit thing. Good for him, not good for Angel. Lots of tension and lots of humor comes out of all this. Nice to see these two characters really get into it. That's a good sign of the season to come. I found Magnus Hansely to be an interesting opponent, even if he was taken out in the end (rather nicely by the old double-double-cross bit). Somehow, a necromancer being killed might not be too much of an impedient (one can hope). I like how the others reacted to Spike's return too (Harmony especially) and he should present some interesting dynamics with the likes of Wes and Fred too.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 4 episodes 20, 21 and 22
Concluding my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 4...
SPOILERS
A4-20: Sacrifice (written by Ben Edlund, airdate 4/23/03)
Angel beats Connor before the group escapes. Did I just cheer about that? Yup. Jasmine continues her overconfidence. Did like how she could speak through her "drones" as well. One mind, one body. Still, the evil one plays it safe by moving Cordy somewhere else, just in case. Loved the monster in the sewer and Wes' discussion with it. So, Jasmine has all of California under her will - I guess that doesn't include Sunnydale. It is really hard to justify these mega-events without it impacting the other show in the universe. Kind of a cop out. Then again, Buffy and the trainees have little time for TV but still.
A4-21: Peace Out (written by David Fury, airdate 4/30/03)
Loved Angel in CGI-Land. Nice effects. Liked his fight with the keeper of the word. Interesting that the blood ritual worked and Connor still stuck with Jasmine no matter what her true appearance was. Just goes to show how messed up that kid is. Still, he does care enough to find Cordelia and make sure she is okay. Love how Angel returned just in time to mess up the conference - before Jasmine could go global and take control. Time for the rats to scamper from the sinking ship as chaos returns to LA. Good speech about free will. "Our fate has to be our own or we're nothing." Very true. Of course, we have to have a fight with thrown cars and such - and in the end, it turns out Connor puts an end to Jasmine's destruction (no - grrrr! Should have been Angel.) All seems well in the end back at the hotel, but then who comes a knockin'? Lilah?!?
A4-22: Home (written by Tim Minear, airdate 5/7/03)
I liked this episode best out of the last five or six. Lilah is back from Hell with an offer (seems even in death she can't get out of work) - the gang has prevented peace on Earth so they get offered the LA branch of Wolfram and Hart. What? Nice how none of them said they would go for the tour (except Gunn) and yet they all end up curious and waiting when the limo arrives. Naturally there is temptations for all, and some are much quicker to accept them than others. Still, Angel is the boss and he decides what they do. He takes the offer in exchange for trying to make his off-the-deep-end son's life better. None of the others remember who Connor is in the end, and Angel finds that the boy is living his life out with a family. Connor seems happy. Heck, if that's the last we see of him, I'm happy too! Oh, and we do get some mention of the events in Sunnydale - and this shows where Angel got the amulet and the information on the First that he gives to Buffy in her finale. Nice tie-in there.
All in all, a rollercoaster of a season - uneven in some parts for me.
Time to start the final season of Angel this week. With the gang operating with all the W&H resources behind them, it should prove to be interesting indeed.
SPOILERS
A4-20: Sacrifice (written by Ben Edlund, airdate 4/23/03)
Angel beats Connor before the group escapes. Did I just cheer about that? Yup. Jasmine continues her overconfidence. Did like how she could speak through her "drones" as well. One mind, one body. Still, the evil one plays it safe by moving Cordy somewhere else, just in case. Loved the monster in the sewer and Wes' discussion with it. So, Jasmine has all of California under her will - I guess that doesn't include Sunnydale. It is really hard to justify these mega-events without it impacting the other show in the universe. Kind of a cop out. Then again, Buffy and the trainees have little time for TV but still.
A4-21: Peace Out (written by David Fury, airdate 4/30/03)
Loved Angel in CGI-Land. Nice effects. Liked his fight with the keeper of the word. Interesting that the blood ritual worked and Connor still stuck with Jasmine no matter what her true appearance was. Just goes to show how messed up that kid is. Still, he does care enough to find Cordelia and make sure she is okay. Love how Angel returned just in time to mess up the conference - before Jasmine could go global and take control. Time for the rats to scamper from the sinking ship as chaos returns to LA. Good speech about free will. "Our fate has to be our own or we're nothing." Very true. Of course, we have to have a fight with thrown cars and such - and in the end, it turns out Connor puts an end to Jasmine's destruction (no - grrrr! Should have been Angel.) All seems well in the end back at the hotel, but then who comes a knockin'? Lilah?!?
A4-22: Home (written by Tim Minear, airdate 5/7/03)
I liked this episode best out of the last five or six. Lilah is back from Hell with an offer (seems even in death she can't get out of work) - the gang has prevented peace on Earth so they get offered the LA branch of Wolfram and Hart. What? Nice how none of them said they would go for the tour (except Gunn) and yet they all end up curious and waiting when the limo arrives. Naturally there is temptations for all, and some are much quicker to accept them than others. Still, Angel is the boss and he decides what they do. He takes the offer in exchange for trying to make his off-the-deep-end son's life better. None of the others remember who Connor is in the end, and Angel finds that the boy is living his life out with a family. Connor seems happy. Heck, if that's the last we see of him, I'm happy too! Oh, and we do get some mention of the events in Sunnydale - and this shows where Angel got the amulet and the information on the First that he gives to Buffy in her finale. Nice tie-in there.
All in all, a rollercoaster of a season - uneven in some parts for me.
Time to start the final season of Angel this week. With the gang operating with all the W&H resources behind them, it should prove to be interesting indeed.
DVD review - Angel season 4 episodes 16, 17, 18 and 19
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 4...
SPOILERS
A4-16: Players (written by Bell, Fain and Craft, airdate 3/26/03)
Three writers? Never a great sign. This episode was all right. Cordy of course announced to the gang that she expecting and they immediately jump to demon-birth. Not like she hasn't been down that road before. She says to Angel right under his nose that she's the big-bad, thinking she's coy. But it isn't that which tips them off. Falling right into a little trap they set with Loren as the bait, looks like the gig is up. Oh, Magic 8 ball - nice touch. Meanwhile, Gwen returns and needs Gunn's help on a mission. He shows his cool under pressure style and brains, and almost gets set up for the fall. He helps her go after her real prize and is rewarded in a special way when Gwen's electro-powers are neutralized. I guess we had to have a finishing arc for this third tier character.
A4-17: Inside Out (written by Steven S. DeKnight, airdate 4/2/03)
The gang tells cornered Cordy how they figured it all out, but that doesn't keep her long. Man, Connor is such a tool and so easily manipulated. I so hate his character. The fact that Cordy can just bat her eyes and have him go get a virgin sacrifice is laughable. Meanwhile, Angel goes to get some answers from Skip - and finds them. Boy, does he find them! Turns out all they knew was a lie - the ascension, the visions, the coming of them together - all planned. Okay, this is a lot to swallow, even for us viewers. All of it was a set up? I feel cheap. At least we got a cool bit with Wes, and his oh-so-perfect targetting skills, blowing out Skip's brains. Yeah, Wesley!!! Meanwhile, Connor "sees" Darla who tries to convince him not to go down this evil path - but the punk doesn't buy it. This gives Cordy time to kill the girl. He annoints her pregnant belly with the blood and viola! Not even Angel arriving in time can stop the coming of...a grown woman?!? (Gina Torres) Why must the Firefly gang all be used as villains? Is that the price of your show getting canned?
A4-18: Shiny Happy People (written by Craft and Fain, airdate 4/9/03)
Angel and Connor are both acting loopy after meeting the woman (later named Jasmine because she keeps noticing the flowers' smell - I wonder if that'll be a clue to her downfall? Hmmmm...). Cordy isn't dead - more a coma like state. I guess that's a good way to keep Charisma on the show while she goes through her real-life pregnancy. (see, I hate when shows have to take turns like this to cover for the actors - I want the old Cordy back!!) Meanwhile, everyone who meets Jasmine instantly finds her benevolent. Okay, not everyone. There was that crazy guy. Speaking of crazy, Fred gets obcessed with trying to clean the bloodstain out of Jasmine's blouse after her injury at the bowling alley (how cool was the vamps bowling with their victims' heads?). But Fred scrubs until she bleeds, mixing her blood with Jasmine's - and that allows her to see the truth - that Jasmine is not what she seems! Can I say "eeeeeeew!"? She takes off and realizes she's on her own on this one.
A4-19: The Magic Bullet (written by Jeffrey Bell, airdate 4/16/03)
Fred tries to get help from a conspiracy theorist bookstore owner, but he's under the thrall too. Jasmine's power is spreading across LA every day - in person, over the airwaves, etc. And she can see through her followers anywhere she wants, putting Fred on the constant run as she tries to figure out what to do next. Open mic night was kind of funny. Fred's taking refuge with the little demon who is into "finger food" had some comedic moments too. But it gives Fred an idea - the blood. She knows why she can see the truth and lets herself get captured. Then in a desperate attempt, she shoots Jasmine and lets the bullet pass through her and into Angel. Blood to blood. Angel was blind but now can see. It ain't pretty. The two then concoct a plan to get the others back on their side. First they cure Loren, then Gunn and Wes. When they try to restore Connor, he seems immune - probably due to his being Jasmine's "father". He blows the whistle on them. Did I mention how much I hate this kid? Did I? Ugh.
SPOILERS
A4-16: Players (written by Bell, Fain and Craft, airdate 3/26/03)
Three writers? Never a great sign. This episode was all right. Cordy of course announced to the gang that she expecting and they immediately jump to demon-birth. Not like she hasn't been down that road before. She says to Angel right under his nose that she's the big-bad, thinking she's coy. But it isn't that which tips them off. Falling right into a little trap they set with Loren as the bait, looks like the gig is up. Oh, Magic 8 ball - nice touch. Meanwhile, Gwen returns and needs Gunn's help on a mission. He shows his cool under pressure style and brains, and almost gets set up for the fall. He helps her go after her real prize and is rewarded in a special way when Gwen's electro-powers are neutralized. I guess we had to have a finishing arc for this third tier character.
A4-17: Inside Out (written by Steven S. DeKnight, airdate 4/2/03)
The gang tells cornered Cordy how they figured it all out, but that doesn't keep her long. Man, Connor is such a tool and so easily manipulated. I so hate his character. The fact that Cordy can just bat her eyes and have him go get a virgin sacrifice is laughable. Meanwhile, Angel goes to get some answers from Skip - and finds them. Boy, does he find them! Turns out all they knew was a lie - the ascension, the visions, the coming of them together - all planned. Okay, this is a lot to swallow, even for us viewers. All of it was a set up? I feel cheap. At least we got a cool bit with Wes, and his oh-so-perfect targetting skills, blowing out Skip's brains. Yeah, Wesley!!! Meanwhile, Connor "sees" Darla who tries to convince him not to go down this evil path - but the punk doesn't buy it. This gives Cordy time to kill the girl. He annoints her pregnant belly with the blood and viola! Not even Angel arriving in time can stop the coming of...a grown woman?!? (Gina Torres) Why must the Firefly gang all be used as villains? Is that the price of your show getting canned?
A4-18: Shiny Happy People (written by Craft and Fain, airdate 4/9/03)
Angel and Connor are both acting loopy after meeting the woman (later named Jasmine because she keeps noticing the flowers' smell - I wonder if that'll be a clue to her downfall? Hmmmm...). Cordy isn't dead - more a coma like state. I guess that's a good way to keep Charisma on the show while she goes through her real-life pregnancy. (see, I hate when shows have to take turns like this to cover for the actors - I want the old Cordy back!!) Meanwhile, everyone who meets Jasmine instantly finds her benevolent. Okay, not everyone. There was that crazy guy. Speaking of crazy, Fred gets obcessed with trying to clean the bloodstain out of Jasmine's blouse after her injury at the bowling alley (how cool was the vamps bowling with their victims' heads?). But Fred scrubs until she bleeds, mixing her blood with Jasmine's - and that allows her to see the truth - that Jasmine is not what she seems! Can I say "eeeeeeew!"? She takes off and realizes she's on her own on this one.
A4-19: The Magic Bullet (written by Jeffrey Bell, airdate 4/16/03)
Fred tries to get help from a conspiracy theorist bookstore owner, but he's under the thrall too. Jasmine's power is spreading across LA every day - in person, over the airwaves, etc. And she can see through her followers anywhere she wants, putting Fred on the constant run as she tries to figure out what to do next. Open mic night was kind of funny. Fred's taking refuge with the little demon who is into "finger food" had some comedic moments too. But it gives Fred an idea - the blood. She knows why she can see the truth and lets herself get captured. Then in a desperate attempt, she shoots Jasmine and lets the bullet pass through her and into Angel. Blood to blood. Angel was blind but now can see. It ain't pretty. The two then concoct a plan to get the others back on their side. First they cure Loren, then Gunn and Wes. When they try to restore Connor, he seems immune - probably due to his being Jasmine's "father". He blows the whistle on them. Did I mention how much I hate this kid? Did I? Ugh.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 4 episodes 12, 13, 14 and 15
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 4...
SPOILERS
A4-12: Cavalry (written by Bell, DeKnight and Smith, airdate 2/12/03)
The opening with Wo-Pang mirrors when Wes first visited him. Having Lilah show up and work, sort of, with the crew made for some interesting tension. It also allowed for Angelus to spill her secrets with Wes. We learn that the Beast is only a lackey to a bigger boss - but, whoa, the boss is Cordy?!? Wild. Loved Loren's calling Lilah "succubitch". So fitting. Black magic goes awry - or did it? After all if Cordy was behind it and she wanted Angelus free...? Hmmmm.
A4-13: Salvage (written by David Fury, airdate 3/5/03)
Wes has to take care of Lilah's body which Angelus conveniently finishes off after Cordy stabbed her. Nice closure of sorts with him talking "with" the corpse. Nice to see Connor sick of magic and wanting to just off his father. Wes knows they need help, and who better than the available Slayer Faith. Nice. Is she still fit for the job? "Like riding a biker." Nice. But she clearly isn't ready to handle the Beast, who pummels her extremely. Luckily Angelus plays by his own rules, offs the big stony demon and, unexpectedly, restores the blotted out Sun. Ooops. Oh yeah, and Cordy is now pregnant with Connor's kid. Can you say magical forces at work? Yup.
A4-14: Release (written by DeKnight, Craft and Fain, airdate 3/12/03)
Cordy gets inside Angelus' head with an ominous voice. Wes shows Faith that sometimes you have to push yourself to do what must be done in order to defeat the evil. She seems reluctant to learn. They finally track Angelus down for round 2, which is a pretty knock down, drag out fight. Angelus gets the upper hand and plans to turn her. Uh oh...
A4-15: Orpheus (written by Mere Smith, airdate 3/19/03)
The joke is on Angelus. Faith tainted her blood with a drug, enough to slow him down and for the gang to recapture him. While she and he are stuck in some weird flashbacks, Fred calls for some help to restore the soul - the one person who did it the first time - Willow. Nice scenes with her and Wes discussing the dark, and her and Cordy - more a battle of the magiks of sorts. In the end, though, it is Connor that messes up Cordy's concentration - getting the soul out of the jar and into the ether. Then, before Connor can stake Angelus - Willow gets the soul back in the body while Faith kicks his butt to keep him from doing the deed. All in all, a solid episode and arc. Willow takes Faith back to Sunnydale.
(Yeah, now I can go and finish off Buffy season 7!!!!)
SPOILERS
A4-12: Cavalry (written by Bell, DeKnight and Smith, airdate 2/12/03)
The opening with Wo-Pang mirrors when Wes first visited him. Having Lilah show up and work, sort of, with the crew made for some interesting tension. It also allowed for Angelus to spill her secrets with Wes. We learn that the Beast is only a lackey to a bigger boss - but, whoa, the boss is Cordy?!? Wild. Loved Loren's calling Lilah "succubitch". So fitting. Black magic goes awry - or did it? After all if Cordy was behind it and she wanted Angelus free...? Hmmmm.
A4-13: Salvage (written by David Fury, airdate 3/5/03)
Wes has to take care of Lilah's body which Angelus conveniently finishes off after Cordy stabbed her. Nice closure of sorts with him talking "with" the corpse. Nice to see Connor sick of magic and wanting to just off his father. Wes knows they need help, and who better than the available Slayer Faith. Nice. Is she still fit for the job? "Like riding a biker." Nice. But she clearly isn't ready to handle the Beast, who pummels her extremely. Luckily Angelus plays by his own rules, offs the big stony demon and, unexpectedly, restores the blotted out Sun. Ooops. Oh yeah, and Cordy is now pregnant with Connor's kid. Can you say magical forces at work? Yup.
A4-14: Release (written by DeKnight, Craft and Fain, airdate 3/12/03)
Cordy gets inside Angelus' head with an ominous voice. Wes shows Faith that sometimes you have to push yourself to do what must be done in order to defeat the evil. She seems reluctant to learn. They finally track Angelus down for round 2, which is a pretty knock down, drag out fight. Angelus gets the upper hand and plans to turn her. Uh oh...
A4-15: Orpheus (written by Mere Smith, airdate 3/19/03)
The joke is on Angelus. Faith tainted her blood with a drug, enough to slow him down and for the gang to recapture him. While she and he are stuck in some weird flashbacks, Fred calls for some help to restore the soul - the one person who did it the first time - Willow. Nice scenes with her and Wes discussing the dark, and her and Cordy - more a battle of the magiks of sorts. In the end, though, it is Connor that messes up Cordy's concentration - getting the soul out of the jar and into the ether. Then, before Connor can stake Angelus - Willow gets the soul back in the body while Faith kicks his butt to keep him from doing the deed. All in all, a solid episode and arc. Willow takes Faith back to Sunnydale.
(Yeah, now I can go and finish off Buffy season 7!!!!)
DVD review - Angel season 4 episodes 9, 10 and 11
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 4...
SPOILERS
A4-9: Long Day's Journey (written by Mere Smith, airdate 1/22/03)
Thought the idea of the totems was interesting and could have easily been spread out into a couple episodes. It quickly goes from four let to just one - Manjet (Manny). Love that a being of higher power reads in the john and wants lap-dances. Then again, he was the aspect of the common man. Electro-girl Gwen is back, just in time to add some needed jealousy for Cordy. Fair is fair. Oh, and nasty plan - blot out the Sun. That'll put some crimp into things. Funny how the folks in Sunnydale didn't even notice this. Oh yeah, they've been busy - convenient. Even a single passing reference would have been nice. Oh well.
A4-10: Awakening (written by Fury and DeKnight, airdate 1/29/03)
Wes' plan is the only option - take out Angel's soul to free Angelus and get the info they need on the Beast which he would know. Someone should have told that to Angel's subconscious though. Instead, we get a Raiders of the Lost Ark homage complete with "why'd it have to be wood?", booby trapped rooms, a defeat of the Beast with a mystic sword, closure between Angel and Connor, and pure happiness for Cordy and Angel. I should have seen it coming. Too good to be true and too easy of a wrap up. Thanks for faking me out, writers. Dang.
A4-11: Soulless (written by Fain and Craft, airdate 2/5/03)
So, Angelus is back but even in a cage he is dangerous. He plays head games with everyone, causing the group to have division in the ranks - all part of his plan. Cordy uses him to get the info on the Svears but even that turns out to be too little too late. Oh, and I knew her taunting in the end was going to come back to haunt her - even before the safe was reopened. Soul, soul, who's got the soul? I'm putting my money on Connor.
SPOILERS
A4-9: Long Day's Journey (written by Mere Smith, airdate 1/22/03)
Thought the idea of the totems was interesting and could have easily been spread out into a couple episodes. It quickly goes from four let to just one - Manjet (Manny). Love that a being of higher power reads in the john and wants lap-dances. Then again, he was the aspect of the common man. Electro-girl Gwen is back, just in time to add some needed jealousy for Cordy. Fair is fair. Oh, and nasty plan - blot out the Sun. That'll put some crimp into things. Funny how the folks in Sunnydale didn't even notice this. Oh yeah, they've been busy - convenient. Even a single passing reference would have been nice. Oh well.
A4-10: Awakening (written by Fury and DeKnight, airdate 1/29/03)
Wes' plan is the only option - take out Angel's soul to free Angelus and get the info they need on the Beast which he would know. Someone should have told that to Angel's subconscious though. Instead, we get a Raiders of the Lost Ark homage complete with "why'd it have to be wood?", booby trapped rooms, a defeat of the Beast with a mystic sword, closure between Angel and Connor, and pure happiness for Cordy and Angel. I should have seen it coming. Too good to be true and too easy of a wrap up. Thanks for faking me out, writers. Dang.
A4-11: Soulless (written by Fain and Craft, airdate 2/5/03)
So, Angelus is back but even in a cage he is dangerous. He plays head games with everyone, causing the group to have division in the ranks - all part of his plan. Cordy uses him to get the info on the Svears but even that turns out to be too little too late. Oh, and I knew her taunting in the end was going to come back to haunt her - even before the safe was reopened. Soul, soul, who's got the soul? I'm putting my money on Connor.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 4 episode 7 and 8
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 4...
SPOILERS
A4-7: Apocalpse, Now-ish (written by Steven S. DeKnight, airdate 11/17/02)
The Beast comes to LA, rising up from the very spot Connor was born. And just before its arrival, all hell breaks loose. Rats in the plumbing, suicide-bomber sparrows, cats lying down with dogs - the phones are ringing off the hook. Loren begs Angel to get Cordelia back, but he won't - that is until Connor comes around and begs for him to talk to her. Even then, Angel needs to go and pool resources with the enemy - and Lilah manages to provide a whole lot of info in a very random way. Gunn puts the puzzle together so they can find out what the Beast is doing and where he's doing it. Then, it is time for a big throw down between the guys and the Beast, who makes major mincemeat out of them. Not even Wes and his endless barrage of guns are enough. This is one serious threat. It brings down fire from the sky, making everyone think the end is near. Cordy foolishly offers to give Connor a real experience - and Angel gets an eyeful by spying on them from a nearby rooftop. Uh oh...
A4-8: Habeas Corpses (written by Jeffrey Bell, airdate 1/15/03)
Cordy wakes up and realizes what she has done - giving Connor the old "this can never happen again" talk. Yup, welcome to the 21st Century, kid. Connor goes to Wolfram and Hart to get some answers about himself - but he's been followed. Turns out the Beast wants W&H out of the picture, and it has its own idea regarding whole-sale staff reductions. When Lilah is almost killed, Wes comes to her rescue and manages to get her out alive. But there is a problem. She tells him that Connor is still up in the building, which is in lockdown mode. Angel leads the charge to save his son - but he won't let Cordy go (but he will put Fred in the thick of danger - nice guy there). What's worse than a building full of dead lawyers? How about a building full of zombie lawyers? Yup. Zombies are always fun. Nice of Gunn to put zombie-Gavin out of his misery. Nice to see the White Room one final time - even if the Beast is there already seeking answers from the little girl. She manages to save the gang - only for them to come to realize they're going to have their hands full stopping this menance. But let's make it harder, Angel - let's kick Cordy and Connor out. There's a smart move.
SPOILERS
A4-7: Apocalpse, Now-ish (written by Steven S. DeKnight, airdate 11/17/02)
The Beast comes to LA, rising up from the very spot Connor was born. And just before its arrival, all hell breaks loose. Rats in the plumbing, suicide-bomber sparrows, cats lying down with dogs - the phones are ringing off the hook. Loren begs Angel to get Cordelia back, but he won't - that is until Connor comes around and begs for him to talk to her. Even then, Angel needs to go and pool resources with the enemy - and Lilah manages to provide a whole lot of info in a very random way. Gunn puts the puzzle together so they can find out what the Beast is doing and where he's doing it. Then, it is time for a big throw down between the guys and the Beast, who makes major mincemeat out of them. Not even Wes and his endless barrage of guns are enough. This is one serious threat. It brings down fire from the sky, making everyone think the end is near. Cordy foolishly offers to give Connor a real experience - and Angel gets an eyeful by spying on them from a nearby rooftop. Uh oh...
A4-8: Habeas Corpses (written by Jeffrey Bell, airdate 1/15/03)
Cordy wakes up and realizes what she has done - giving Connor the old "this can never happen again" talk. Yup, welcome to the 21st Century, kid. Connor goes to Wolfram and Hart to get some answers about himself - but he's been followed. Turns out the Beast wants W&H out of the picture, and it has its own idea regarding whole-sale staff reductions. When Lilah is almost killed, Wes comes to her rescue and manages to get her out alive. But there is a problem. She tells him that Connor is still up in the building, which is in lockdown mode. Angel leads the charge to save his son - but he won't let Cordy go (but he will put Fred in the thick of danger - nice guy there). What's worse than a building full of dead lawyers? How about a building full of zombie lawyers? Yup. Zombies are always fun. Nice of Gunn to put zombie-Gavin out of his misery. Nice to see the White Room one final time - even if the Beast is there already seeking answers from the little girl. She manages to save the gang - only for them to come to realize they're going to have their hands full stopping this menance. But let's make it harder, Angel - let's kick Cordy and Connor out. There's a smart move.
Friday, August 7, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 4 episode 5 and 6
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 4...
SPOILERS
A4-5: Sypersymmetry (written by Craft and Fain, airdate 11/03/02)
We learn a lot this episode - getting published makes Fred all hot, Cordy is always stealing the covers, Wes can say no to Lilah's nookie, and Connor likes to catch glimpses at Cordy's cleavage. I enjoyed how Fred's moment to shine turned to disaster - luckily the guys were there to help. Was Lilah behind it? Was the comic book nerd behind it (played by the same actor who plays the older brother on iCarly)? Did you know Gunn was a reader of Daredevil? In the end, the story turns to that of revenge - Fred wants some payback on Professor Siedel who, it turns out, was the one who dumped her off in Pilia. Her turning to Wes when Angel and Gunn wouldn't do it sets up some nice tension. But, in the end, Gunn does what any boyfriend would do - put the blood on his hands so Fred wouldn't have to.
A4-6: Spin the Bottle (written by Joss Whedon, airdate 11/10/02)
Leave it to Joss to give us an interesting narrative framework - Loren telling us the story via a flashback (amazing how he could do that when he was unconscious for most of it). Love when magic goes all wonky - this time showing the group as they were as teenagers. Yeah, we get old Cordy back. We also find out Wes was head-boy at the Watchers' Academy (snicker). Gunn is as badass as we'd expect. Fred is surprisingly an interesting geek - into conspiracy theory and scoring some weed. Loved seeing Angel as a confused Liam too. Of course, Connor gets to show up and cause some chaos. And we get Alexis doing some great physical comedy throughout (you know Joss likes to have him do that stuff). All in all, a fun episode - and in the end Cordy has her memories back - and that isn't necessarily a good thing.
SPOILERS
A4-5: Sypersymmetry (written by Craft and Fain, airdate 11/03/02)
We learn a lot this episode - getting published makes Fred all hot, Cordy is always stealing the covers, Wes can say no to Lilah's nookie, and Connor likes to catch glimpses at Cordy's cleavage. I enjoyed how Fred's moment to shine turned to disaster - luckily the guys were there to help. Was Lilah behind it? Was the comic book nerd behind it (played by the same actor who plays the older brother on iCarly)? Did you know Gunn was a reader of Daredevil? In the end, the story turns to that of revenge - Fred wants some payback on Professor Siedel who, it turns out, was the one who dumped her off in Pilia. Her turning to Wes when Angel and Gunn wouldn't do it sets up some nice tension. But, in the end, Gunn does what any boyfriend would do - put the blood on his hands so Fred wouldn't have to.
A4-6: Spin the Bottle (written by Joss Whedon, airdate 11/10/02)
Leave it to Joss to give us an interesting narrative framework - Loren telling us the story via a flashback (amazing how he could do that when he was unconscious for most of it). Love when magic goes all wonky - this time showing the group as they were as teenagers. Yeah, we get old Cordy back. We also find out Wes was head-boy at the Watchers' Academy (snicker). Gunn is as badass as we'd expect. Fred is surprisingly an interesting geek - into conspiracy theory and scoring some weed. Loved seeing Angel as a confused Liam too. Of course, Connor gets to show up and cause some chaos. And we get Alexis doing some great physical comedy throughout (you know Joss likes to have him do that stuff). All in all, a fun episode - and in the end Cordy has her memories back - and that isn't necessarily a good thing.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 4 episode 3 and 4
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 4...
SPOILERS
A4-3: The House Always Wins (written by David Furay, airdate 10/20/02)
Loved the opening with Angel watching Connor and Cordy watching Angel watch Connor (oh, and Fred and Gunn watching Angel too). Who watches the watchmen (and watchwomen)? Next up, Vegas, baby! Love location shooting and enjoyed seeing Lorne's show, complete with Lornettes. The story was pretty interesting too - magic markers that steal destinies and basically trade "futures". Nice twist. Good work on Fred's part as well as Gunn's. Of course, they couldn't have done it without a little nudging from Cordy - I have to wonder if her little stunt is what got her bounced back to the mortal realm without any memory. Time will tell.
A4-4: Slouching Toward Bethlehem (written by Jeffry Bell, airdate 10/27/02)
Connor's trick of torching the vamp with the car lighter was kind of cool. Okay, and I totally would get Cordy's reluctance to believe all this craziness was her former life. Even the old Sunnydale yearbook didn't help jog the old noggin. Now, Lilah once again shows us that you just never, ever can trust a lawyer - how she set up Wes, tricked him into thinking he had one up on her, getting the others out of the way and then sending her psychics to pick Lorne's head clean of what he saw when he read Cordy. She's the lowest of the lows. And yet, Wes just can't get enough. In the end, not surprised Cordy would want to stay with Connor as he was the only one who told her the truth right from the get-go. Hopefully she comes around and returns to the fold. I have hopes for that and Wes returning too. The band needs to be back together permanently.
SPOILERS
A4-3: The House Always Wins (written by David Furay, airdate 10/20/02)
Loved the opening with Angel watching Connor and Cordy watching Angel watch Connor (oh, and Fred and Gunn watching Angel too). Who watches the watchmen (and watchwomen)? Next up, Vegas, baby! Love location shooting and enjoyed seeing Lorne's show, complete with Lornettes. The story was pretty interesting too - magic markers that steal destinies and basically trade "futures". Nice twist. Good work on Fred's part as well as Gunn's. Of course, they couldn't have done it without a little nudging from Cordy - I have to wonder if her little stunt is what got her bounced back to the mortal realm without any memory. Time will tell.
A4-4: Slouching Toward Bethlehem (written by Jeffry Bell, airdate 10/27/02)
Connor's trick of torching the vamp with the car lighter was kind of cool. Okay, and I totally would get Cordy's reluctance to believe all this craziness was her former life. Even the old Sunnydale yearbook didn't help jog the old noggin. Now, Lilah once again shows us that you just never, ever can trust a lawyer - how she set up Wes, tricked him into thinking he had one up on her, getting the others out of the way and then sending her psychics to pick Lorne's head clean of what he saw when he read Cordy. She's the lowest of the lows. And yet, Wes just can't get enough. In the end, not surprised Cordy would want to stay with Connor as he was the only one who told her the truth right from the get-go. Hopefully she comes around and returns to the fold. I have hopes for that and Wes returning too. The band needs to be back together permanently.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 4 episode 1 and 2
Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Angel season 4...
SPOILERS
A4-1: Deep Down (written by Steven S. DeKnight, airdate 10/6/02)
Man, three months at the bottom of the ocean will make your mind hallucinate some crazy stuff, eh? Poor Angel. Fred and Gunn have enough trouble keeping the business afloat, keeping an eye on Connor (the lying son-of-two-vamps) and trying to find their missing friends - though funny no one realizes Groo is missing too (though technically he left but only Cordy knew that). Luckily for them all Wes is on the job, right after some more wild nookie with Lilah (he likes the bad girls, doesn't he?). Using slave/prisoner Justine, Wes manages to find and save Angel - even offering his own blood to help revive his old friend. But he won't stay for the thank you. Fred, meanwhile, fakes out Connor and gives him the shock he deserves. Luckily Angel can muster enough strength to give the boy some serious tough-love and then throw him out on his own so he can think about all the bad he did. Oh, yeah, and Cordelia is so bored being a higher being. I miss her.
A4-2: Ground State (written by Mere Smith, airdate 10/13/02)
That 1985 opening - what is this? Emma Frost and the Hellfire Academy? Seriously, Gwen is one cool chick and a great thief. I felt sorry for Angel and company having to go against her on the same heist. Gunn almost paid the ultimate price and Fred totally had a meltdown. Good character stuff. Oh, loved Gunn's "this is so much harder than it looks on Batman". I loved Angel's conversation with Lilah - and how he knows what she and Wes have been doing. Luckily for Gwen that Angel was there to help her when her buyer double-crosses her. She seems like an interesting character that I wouldn't mind seeing back. Definitely some sparks between her and Angel (no pun intended). So, after all that, Angel uses the Axis to find out where Cordelia is and that she is where she belongs. Uh, hello...guys...Cordy needs a little help here. Another solid episode.
SPOILERS
A4-1: Deep Down (written by Steven S. DeKnight, airdate 10/6/02)
Man, three months at the bottom of the ocean will make your mind hallucinate some crazy stuff, eh? Poor Angel. Fred and Gunn have enough trouble keeping the business afloat, keeping an eye on Connor (the lying son-of-two-vamps) and trying to find their missing friends - though funny no one realizes Groo is missing too (though technically he left but only Cordy knew that). Luckily for them all Wes is on the job, right after some more wild nookie with Lilah (he likes the bad girls, doesn't he?). Using slave/prisoner Justine, Wes manages to find and save Angel - even offering his own blood to help revive his old friend. But he won't stay for the thank you. Fred, meanwhile, fakes out Connor and gives him the shock he deserves. Luckily Angel can muster enough strength to give the boy some serious tough-love and then throw him out on his own so he can think about all the bad he did. Oh, yeah, and Cordelia is so bored being a higher being. I miss her.
A4-2: Ground State (written by Mere Smith, airdate 10/13/02)
That 1985 opening - what is this? Emma Frost and the Hellfire Academy? Seriously, Gwen is one cool chick and a great thief. I felt sorry for Angel and company having to go against her on the same heist. Gunn almost paid the ultimate price and Fred totally had a meltdown. Good character stuff. Oh, loved Gunn's "this is so much harder than it looks on Batman". I loved Angel's conversation with Lilah - and how he knows what she and Wes have been doing. Luckily for Gwen that Angel was there to help her when her buyer double-crosses her. She seems like an interesting character that I wouldn't mind seeing back. Definitely some sparks between her and Angel (no pun intended). So, after all that, Angel uses the Axis to find out where Cordelia is and that she is where she belongs. Uh, hello...guys...Cordy needs a little help here. Another solid episode.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
DVD review - Angel season 3 episode 20, 21 and 22
Concluding my viewing and reviewing of Angel season 3...
*** SPOILERS ***
A20: A New World (written by Jefrey Bell, airdate 5/6/02)
A21: Benediction (written by Tim Minear, airdate 5/13/02)
A22: Tomorrow (written by David Greenwalt, airdate 5/20/02)
These final three episodes really are the arc that deals with the return of Connor and how the ramifications effect Angel and the team. We've already had the alienation of Wesley due to the perceived betrayal that lead to Holtz taking the baby. Now, Connor is back - a grown teenager - and hell-bent on taking revenge on a man he was raised to hate. The fact that the boy fights as well and so similarly as his biological father drives home the point of how much the two are alike despite the fact that they've been apart so long (okay, three weeks from Angel's view, sixteen years from Connor's).
Great stuff between Lilah and Wesley as she tries to woo him over to Wolfram and Hart. W&H meanwhile isn't satisfied with things and makes an attempt of their own to get the returned young man. All that stuff worked for me.
What didn't work was a lot of episode 20 with Connor and the drug dealer and the junkie. I just felt a lot bored with some of that one. Maybe it was, in part, the quick-fix of returning the boy to the fold all grown up. Kind of reminded me of what old sitcoms used to do with quick aging of younger siblings between seasons from infants to adorable kids. Sure, this show had the built in "time passes differently in some hell-dimensions", as evidenced from the episode "Anne" back on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Still, it just kind of mared a good bit of episode 20 for me.
That is, until Holtz is revealed to be back too. He brings about a totally different thing. His complex view at justice and vengeance is played out so well in episode 21. And we get Justine back to play a part in it, with all her mix of emotions for Holtz that were left behind when he split with the child to his sudden return, etc. What he has her do in the end - all in the name of using "love" to hurt Angel is just so amazingly twisted. Loved it.
Of course, episode 22 is all about the fall-out. Groo decides it is finally time to get out of the way as he realizes how much Cordy cares for Angel. What a noble guy. Loren, too, feels the need to move on - most likely in part due to Connor's extreme reaction to his being a demon. He cared for that infant so much and clearly was so hurt by it. I am certain he'll be back - love the character too much for him to be gone. Wesley, meanwhile, is tired of Lilah's head-games as she is really starting to get to him - but is sex with her really the answer? It just goes to show how far Wes is falling, how dark his character is turning based on his actions. This is nice to see though as it is an aspect of the character we haven't had yet. Look forward to more of that.
And, lastly, the love between Angel and Cordelia. It has been building progressively over the seasons - unspoken but there. They've known each other the longest and thus the connection. But, those final scenes - after Connor bests Angel in a fight and prepares his revenge with the help of Justine, and with Cordelia not making it to their get-together in time because of the return of Skip and his telling her that it is time for her to move on to the next level. Powerful stuff here. As she rises to the heavens, Angel is sinking to the depths of the ocean in a most horrid deathtrap for an immortal. Very striking visuals, played so well against one another. What a cliffhanger for season 3. I am so glad I don't have to wait the months the viewers did to continue the story. That would have been so painful.
All in all, an outstanding season. The cast has gelled quite nicely and the storylines have been hitting on all cylinders.
*** SPOILERS ***
A20: A New World (written by Jefrey Bell, airdate 5/6/02)
A21: Benediction (written by Tim Minear, airdate 5/13/02)
A22: Tomorrow (written by David Greenwalt, airdate 5/20/02)
These final three episodes really are the arc that deals with the return of Connor and how the ramifications effect Angel and the team. We've already had the alienation of Wesley due to the perceived betrayal that lead to Holtz taking the baby. Now, Connor is back - a grown teenager - and hell-bent on taking revenge on a man he was raised to hate. The fact that the boy fights as well and so similarly as his biological father drives home the point of how much the two are alike despite the fact that they've been apart so long (okay, three weeks from Angel's view, sixteen years from Connor's).
Great stuff between Lilah and Wesley as she tries to woo him over to Wolfram and Hart. W&H meanwhile isn't satisfied with things and makes an attempt of their own to get the returned young man. All that stuff worked for me.
What didn't work was a lot of episode 20 with Connor and the drug dealer and the junkie. I just felt a lot bored with some of that one. Maybe it was, in part, the quick-fix of returning the boy to the fold all grown up. Kind of reminded me of what old sitcoms used to do with quick aging of younger siblings between seasons from infants to adorable kids. Sure, this show had the built in "time passes differently in some hell-dimensions", as evidenced from the episode "Anne" back on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Still, it just kind of mared a good bit of episode 20 for me.
That is, until Holtz is revealed to be back too. He brings about a totally different thing. His complex view at justice and vengeance is played out so well in episode 21. And we get Justine back to play a part in it, with all her mix of emotions for Holtz that were left behind when he split with the child to his sudden return, etc. What he has her do in the end - all in the name of using "love" to hurt Angel is just so amazingly twisted. Loved it.
Of course, episode 22 is all about the fall-out. Groo decides it is finally time to get out of the way as he realizes how much Cordy cares for Angel. What a noble guy. Loren, too, feels the need to move on - most likely in part due to Connor's extreme reaction to his being a demon. He cared for that infant so much and clearly was so hurt by it. I am certain he'll be back - love the character too much for him to be gone. Wesley, meanwhile, is tired of Lilah's head-games as she is really starting to get to him - but is sex with her really the answer? It just goes to show how far Wes is falling, how dark his character is turning based on his actions. This is nice to see though as it is an aspect of the character we haven't had yet. Look forward to more of that.
And, lastly, the love between Angel and Cordelia. It has been building progressively over the seasons - unspoken but there. They've known each other the longest and thus the connection. But, those final scenes - after Connor bests Angel in a fight and prepares his revenge with the help of Justine, and with Cordelia not making it to their get-together in time because of the return of Skip and his telling her that it is time for her to move on to the next level. Powerful stuff here. As she rises to the heavens, Angel is sinking to the depths of the ocean in a most horrid deathtrap for an immortal. Very striking visuals, played so well against one another. What a cliffhanger for season 3. I am so glad I don't have to wait the months the viewers did to continue the story. That would have been so painful.
All in all, an outstanding season. The cast has gelled quite nicely and the storylines have been hitting on all cylinders.
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