The Glee Project Winner/Glee - Season 3 Trailer

With the show back on our screens next month, here are some bits worth knowing ...

The Glee Project: I tried to sit through this show but literally couldn't do it and thanks to it finishing in America and the winners being announced, I don't need to watch the remainder of the series on Sky1. Okay, so both Damien and Samuel were joint winners which means they get to appear in seven episodes of the upcoming third season. Runners up Alex and Lindsay will appear in two episodes and none of them are playing the new characters already mentioned (Bubba, Sheila and Sugar).

Glee: A trailer for the third season has been released and it's a lovely concept one. Basically, it features Sue hurling dodgeballs at Will, Emma, Beiste, Rachel, Finn, Kurt, Blaine, Artie, Tina, Mike, Mercedes, Puck, Quinn, Brittany, Santana and Becky's in the trailer to. The song playing in it is called We Got The Beat.

Season 3 Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Nrjz2IIFm4

Season 3 of Glee airs Tuesdays at 8pm on FOX from September 20th and will air on both Sky1 and TV3 shortly afterwards.

Doctor Who - Series 6 Part 2 Radio Times Guide

Radio Times already covered the first half of the season back in April and with the second half due to air Saturday, here's a rundown of what to expect from it ...

6x08: Let's Kill Hitler

Written by Steven Moffat
Directed by Richard Senior

If you've read the many reviews out for this episode already, then the depiction of Hitler might amuse or disappoint you, depending on your temperament in relation to the Fuhrer. Either way, this episode will have it's dramatic moments but will also be seeped in rich comedy as the Doctor is still looking for Melody, Amy and Rory return to the TARDIS with their volatile friend Mels and somewhere in between war criminals and assassins known as the Tesselecta, River also appears. Also expect to see flashbacks of younger Amy, Rory and Mels too.

6x09: Night Terrors

Written by Mark Gatiss
Directed by Richard Clark

Originally this was titled What Are Little Boys Made Of? Originally it was also meant to air during the first half of Season 6 and originally, it was also supposed to be a companion-lite story. Mark Gatiss serves up a scary delight as a nervous boy named George sees himself terrorised by giant dolls known as Peg Dolls and it's up the TARDIS team to stop them. This episode also features Ashes To Ashes actor Daniel Mays as Alex and this episode isn't the only contribution Mark Gatiss makes in the second half of the series.

6x10: The Girl Who Waited

Written by Tom McRae
Directed by Nick Hurran

Want an episode that's going to be quite the tour de force for Amy Pond? Apparently, this is exactly what you'll get in this episode from Rise Of The Cybermen/The Age Of Steel scribe, Tom McRae. This episode has quite the time travelling twists, menacing robots called the Handbots and also delves into the theme of something possibly going wrong, considering that the Doctor has been in Amy and Rory's lives longer than he intended to.

6x11: The God Complex

Written by Toby Whithouse
Directed by Nick Hurran

Toby Whithouse strikes again but instead of Krillitanes and Saturnynes, this time around the action is set in a spooky hotel, which lures people to their demise while playing on their fears. With the Doctor, Amy and Rory, it's definitely going to have a lot to go on. David Walliams plays an alien mole creature called Gibbis and it's this episode that may be featuring appearances from Amelia, Weeping Angels and Daleks to name a few.

6x12: Closing Time

Written by Gareth Roberts
Directed by Steve Hughes

You have to admire The Lodger. What could've been a filler comedy episode last year ended up being a sweet little story that only went and generated itself a follow up story. James Corden is back as Craig and the former flatmate of the Doctor's life has changed a lot since last year. This is also the episode where the Cybermen get a proper story this year too. And the Doctor working in a department store should provide some laughs too.

6x13: The Wedding Of River Song

Written by Steven Moffat
Directed by Jeremy Webb

Why not? We've seen Donna/Shaun and Amy/Rory marry in the previous two seasons, so River getting her own wedding episode isn't the biggest shocker, is it? Well, this episode contains lines like: 'I don't want to marry you/I don't want to murder you', the return of Madame Kovarian, Churchill, appearances from Simon Callow and Mark Gatiss, possible exits for Amy and Rory and all manners of time displacement. As well as resolving some of River's story, it will resolve the Doctor's death saga as well as another face off with the Silence too and end on something that will lead into the next series.

Season 6 Part 2 airs on BBC1 and BBCAmerica from August 27th.

My Review of True Blood's 4x09: "Let's Get Out Of Here"

Written by Brian Buckner
Directed by Romeo Tirone

Sookie (re Bill/Eric): “I think I’m in love with both of you.”
Bill: “You can’t be. That’s not who you are.”

And what’s that sound I hear in the background? Yes, it’s the sound of certain Sookie/Eric shippers baying for Alan Ball’s blood and they’re a tougher crowd to get through than a starved vampire or vengeful witch combined. So, Sookie loves both Bill and Eric? Let’s discuss.

Regardless of the fact that a year has passed between seasons, Sookie’s time in fairyland already meant that time passed less for her, so the fact that a part of her subconscious (fuelled by Bill’s blood) is admitting that she still has some romantic feelings for her first love shouldn’t be a radical shock to folks.

And then there’s Eric, who Sookie has been taking care, ingesting his blood like Bill and also developing romantic feelings for as well. Sookie’s relationships with both Bill and Eric are/probably should be doomed but you can’t argue with the points the girl raises in her own sex dreams, now can you?

If it’s alright for Bill and Eric to claim Sookie as theirs for the last four seasons, then it is most definitely alright for her to turn around and tell them that she owns them too. I actually like that side of Sookie for some reason. Why shouldn’t she own her sexuality and make a stand for herself? Despite their protests, Bill and Eric did somewhat seem to agree to the idea in the end.

Of course, this was all a dream and the real Bill was busy trying to keep public favour at a vampire tolerance meeting that Eric royally fucked up thanks to Marnie/Antonia wielding power over him. I can’t wait to see how PR lady Nan is going to spin this latest disaster to a vampire advantage. She’s gonna have her work cut out for her.

I sympathised with Marnie/Antonia at the start of the season but now she’s gone too far and has become just as bad as the vampires that raped and executed her all those centuries ago. Holding her own coven hostage was bad enough but her actions at that meeting cost innocent lives and it just proved that Marnie/Antonia needs to be stopped before any more bloodshed is caused.

I complained that last week Tara didn’t begin to question Marnie/Antonia’s actions and hoped that Bill saving her life would give her some perspective. Thankfully some in the writing staff was listening because Tara made me proud in this episode on a few occasions.

Not only did she question Marnie/Antonia but she also realised that the woman was fucking insane and at least made an attempt to escape with Holly and the others from the Moon Goddess Emporium. While Tara might have failed on that one, she at least managed to get Sookie out of harm’s way, so for that alone, you gotta love her this week.

However, I just realised that I really want some more scenes with Sookie and Marnie/Antonia in the final three episodes for some reason. Just a few. I don’t expect Sookie to be the one to eventually stop her (somehow I think that’s either going to be Lafayette, Bill or Eric) but some more scenes with them would be lovely.

Speaking of more scenes, I really enjoyed the whole ‘alliance’ between Sookie and Debbie in this episode as well. Debbie’s clearly on the mantra of keeping her enemies closer and while Sookie tried to assure her about Alcide, it’s pretty obvious that Sookie should be preparing herself for another showdown with the volatile werewolf soon. Debbie clearly set Sookie up for a fall with Marnie/Antonia and she wasn’t best pleased when it fell apart.

As for Alcide – dude, just break up with Debbie already. If he tries to break up with her honestly, maybe Debbie won’t go bat shit crazy on his ass and also get her away from Marcus too. It’s a shame that this week Marcus became a one dimensional douche with his beat down on Sam/Tommy but at least Alcide knows who exactly Marcus is now.

On the subject of Tommy – I’ll admit it, I felt bad for him again. Last time he posed as Sam, he tried to wreck his life; this time around he was trying to make amends. That being said though, I can’t see Sam rushing to thank him anytime soon for that. I did like that Alcide came to Tommy’s defence though.

As for Sam, Luna and Emma, I liked the whole camping trip. Seeing that caring side to Sam again is better than flashbacks where he kills people but maybe the rabbit petting was a little too much. I mean the intention was obviously good natured but it did feel a little weird too.

Keeping with the weird, I am glad the Lafayette/Mavis possession ended in this episode and more glad that Jason, Hoyt, Arlene, Terry and Andy actually saw Mavis pass on when she got her clarity by holding her dead child. Some great acting from Nelsan Ellis during this one too, though Andy’s V addiction needs to end already, especially now that Debbie’s back on the stuff. One addict per season, please show?

Last but not least – Hoyt disappointed me slightly by packing all of Jessica’s stuff in a box and labelling it ‘monster’. I get that he’s angry and reacting like a real person would in the situation but it’s still rather sad to see nonetheless. And he’s going to have even more reason to be pissed when he finds out that Jason and Jessica did it in the former’s pick up truck. Come on, like that wasn’t going to happen already? I was actually pleased they got it out of the way if I’m being honest.

Also in “Let’s Get Out Of Here”

Was this episode supposed to be called “Run”, only to be changed at the last minute? That’s twice this has happened this season, title wise.

Bill (to Alcide): “Werewolf, I’m gonna need you to shut the fuck up.”

Debbie was watching an episode of Cheaters before Alcide came home. So far, he hasn’t actually cheated on Debbie, not even emotionally – yet!

Marnie/Antonia (re Tara): “Does she speak for everyone?”
Holly: “She sure as hell speaks for me.”
Roy: “Not for me.”

Marnie/Antonia: “Nobody leaves.”
Tara: “Or what?”
Marnie/Antonia: “Try it and you’ll find out.”

Marnie/Antonia basically locked the doors and made the handles hot. Anyone of those wiccans could’ve smashed a bloody window to get out. Preferably the same one Sookie got in through.

Jessica: “You’re nothing like you are on TV.”
Nan: “Aw, thanks.”

Eric: “What are you doing here?”
Bill: “Ask Sookie. It’s her dream.”

Apparently Nan has never made a vampire herself and thanks to Jessica, she seems to be content with that. I did love Nan and Bill’s sniping when they were silvered down together.

Lafayette/Mavis: “You sound like a white man.”
Andy: “You know damn well I’m a white man.”

Sookie: “Debbie, I understand being jealous but you tried to kill me. That isn’t something you can expect me to forget.”
Debbie: “That’s not what I came for.”

Standout music: Les Savvy Fav’s “Let’s Get Out Of Here” and I just realised that in the midst of all the action this week, Pam was actually missing from proceedings.

Jesus (to Mavis): “It’s time you found him and held him but now, I need my Lafayette back.”

Sookie (to Bill): “Run!”

Chronology: Straight from where “Spellbound” left off.

Blimey, this was a big one, episode wise. “Let’s Get Out Of Here” resolved the Mavis plot, really further Marnie/Antonia’s rage against the vampires and also seemed to cement the fact that there are a good candidates who will probably be goners within the three weeks. Somehow I don’t think Bill and Eric will amongst those soon to be departed.

Rating: 9 out of 10

Top TV Pairings Part 8

And here's my final installment in the TV Pairings rundown. Hope you enjoyed it.

Doctor Who - The Doctor/TARDIS

The fun thing about having a series that's run for 32 seasons so far is that the amount of pairings to choose from are thankfully, plentiful. I thought about this long and hard and after rewatching The Doctor's Wife, I felt that the Doctor and his ship (TARDIS/Idris/Sexy/Blue Box) was the ultimate TV pairing. Seriously, the connection those two share easily outclasses everything else by miles and long may it reign - them being each other's constant.

Brothers And Sisters - Kevin Walker/Scotty Wandall

Anyone who's ever had read my blogs would know that Kevin/Scotty were always going to rank high in this list. A wonderful gay couple who got plenty of guy on guy action, proper storytelling and let's face it, the chemistry between Matthew Rhys and Luke Macfarlane really does put everything on the show to shame, given how wonderful they are. I so need the Season 5 DVD like there's no freaking tomorrow.

Being Human - George Sands/Nina Pickering

Mitchell and Annie were fine and all that but for me, the heart of Being Human has become George and Nina's relationship and the two of them have gone through a lot (werewolf transformations, pregnancy, near death experiences, divided loyalties) and come out the other side each time. I can't wait to see how becoming parents works for them next season.

Six Feet Under - David Fisher/Keith Charles

A bit before Kevin/Scotty, the other most significant gay couple were David and Keith and while sometimes the show might have overdone the arguments between them, for me, these two always felt like a real couple. David and Keith were definitely landmark television in a way that Queer As Folk and Glee's gay pairings aren't necessarily. A classic couple if ever there was one.

True Blood - Jessica Hamby/Hoyt Fortenberry

Yeah, I know they've had a horrible breakup in Spellbound and there's a distinct possibility that a Jessica/Jason pairing is possible but damn it, I loved these two as a couple and even recent episodes can't mar that for me. Though I am eagerly looking forward to the inevitable Sookie/Alcide pairing too.

I might do a runner up blog or two on other pairings that I didn't catch in the previous blogs.

My Review of Torchwood's 4x07: "Immortal Sins"

Written by Jane Espenson
Directed by Gwyneth Horder-Payton

Jack: “I’ve got this friend. He’s called the Doctor. He explores the world with a companion. It looks nice.”
Angelo: “Are you saying that I can stay?”
Jack: “Maybe.”

When I first heard about this episode, I had something of a mixed reaction to it. The idea of a Jack flashback delighted me to no end but I was also worried that it would distract from the main plot. I really shouldn’t have bothered worrying because this flashback episode was both wonderful and important in the miracle dilemma.

We’ve had plenty of moments of seeing and hearing about Jack’s former lovers – whether they’re the real Jack Harkness, Estelle, Lucia or Captain John, they’ve all added something to Jack as a character. Angelo is no exception but his was a union with Jack that was certainly fraught with a little more than usual.

Stealing Jack’s fake identity probably should’ve been a signpost that Angelo might turn out to be untrustworthy but considering that Jack placed a lot of confidence in Angelo, I was willing to let it slide. I mean Jack really had no motive to break Angelo out of prison and a part of me was surprised that he did.

The sexual part of their relationship is somewhat more satisfying than Jack’s previous on screen tryst with Brad in “Dead Of Night” but it’s the commentary on the nature of Jack and Angelo’s union that stirred a lot of debate for me here.

Was it tacked on/heavy handed that Angelo enjoyed the sex with Jack but also seemed to harbour some self loathing about sleeping with a man? Maybe it is to an extent but I think it helped later on when Angelo both betrayed and tried to make amends with Jack at the same time.

Angelo sold Jack out pretty instantly a year after their debacle with the alien in the warehouse when he was responsible for everyone’s murders on Jack but he did seem sorry for it. Sadly that soured Angelo as a character for me because while he had all this fear surrounding Jack’s immortality, he did betray him in the worst way possible and I think he got off lightly for it when Jack just dumped.

However the real shocker was Angelo being revealed as the one behind the miracle, courtesy of Olivia at the end of the episode. Tonally it made sense (otherwise, why would the episode have developed Angelo as much as it did?) but it still floored me as a final scene to this excellent hour.

Speaking of betrayals, while Angelo’s one towards Jack might have been harder to understand, Gwen’s was by far easier. Olivia and her cronies had her family hostage and Gwen really had no choice but to hand Jack over to them for her family’s safety. Jack even understood that himself but the scenes with him and Gwen in the car were just awkward.

John Barrowman and Eve Myles just acted their hearts out during those scenes. Jack was sympathetic towards Gwen’s plight but he wasn’t above trying to get out of being handed over to the mystery families and Gwen was forced to admit that her family had to be her main priority over Torchwood or her friendship with Jack.

It’s the kind of examination of Jack and Gwen’s relationship that was overdue, wasn’t it? These two care for each other and have their back but at the same, Gwen’s stepping into Jack’s world has cost her in more ways than she could imagine.

If it wasn’t for Rex, Esther and Andy, Gwen would’ve easily have lost Rhys, Anwen and Mary this week. Thankfully all three of them got their moments to shine. Esther through picking up on Gwen’s erratic behaviour and catching the last exchange with the contact, Rex for his stealth and Andy for the same reason as Rex I suppose.

It was definitely the best use of all three characters this week and hopefully, we’ll have some nice moments like that with Rex, Esther and Andy. I even had to stop myself from scoffing when Rex compared Torchwood to amateur clowns. He wasn’t exactly wrong, was he? Oh and it’s nice that Jack and Gwen made up at the end of the episode too.

As for Oswald and Jilly, well, it’s another episode without them but it seems that Oswald was busy trying to keep the category system in place. I have a feeling that line of thinking from Oswald is going to backfire on him when he does show up again.

Also in “Immortal Sins”

Most of the flashbacks in this episode took place in 1927 and 1928, New York. Jack did once mention an incident in Ellis Island, didn’t he?

Esther: “Sorry, I don’t know how to help, except that maybe her death has changed things. Maybe they’ll shut down the camps.”
Rex: “No, they paused the camps. That’s all they’re saying – paused.”

Vera was supposedly from San Antonio and might have had a brother or sister. Despite his protesting, Rex is affected by her death.

Angelo: “I don’t understand. We just did something special, why make it cheap?”
Jack: “I suppose I do that sometimes. I’m sorry.”

Gwen (to Jack): “Well, you’ve done something haven’t you? Way back when in the long bloody life of yours. God, you’ve lived so bloody long, you can’t remember half of it, now think. Think. What the hell have you done?”

The Trickster’s brigade was mentioned here. The Trickster himself was last seen in The Sarah Jane Adventures back in 2009.

Angelo: “You made this happen; you’ve planned this, since when? Since you got on the boat to America?”
Jack: “Just get out of town, Angelo. These people are bad; you don’t want to be on their list. Get far away.”

Angelo: “Besides I always hoped that if God is love, maybe he loves me too.”
Jack: “That’s blasphemy.”
Angelo: “I think that’s Christianity.”

That alien that Jack and Angelo neutralised looked like a mini-version of the 456, didn’t it? I also loved the firebird story Jack told Gwen as well. I also bet we’ll be seeing those three men who ‘bought’ Jack as well.

Jack: “I love you Gwen Cooper but I will rip your skin from your skull before I let you take this away from me. Understood?”
Gwen: “Understood.”

Jack: “I’m sorry, Angelo, but this is the story of my life. It always end the same way – you kill me. Men like you kill me.”

Chronology: Apart from 1927-1928 in flashbacks, a few hours after “The Middle Men”.

I absolutely loved this episode. “Immortal Sins” was Torchwood to me. Everything from the writing, the characterisation, forwarding the plot in a huge way. It feels like after the shaky start we had to “Miracle Day” that the show is finally delivering and about time too.

Rating: 10 out of 10

My Review of True Blood's 4x08: "Spellbound"

Written by Alan Ball
Directed by Daniel Minahan

Bill: “I want peace but you are prepared for war.”
Eric: “Of course.”
Bill: “But I’m convinced we will win.”
Eric: “But war isn’t about whether you think you can win. It’s about being willing to die for something you believe is worth dying for.”

I don’t know if I should think Eric’s sentiments are noble or unwise or both but he actually convinced me to want to take arms against the witches, so go Eric in that respect. Can I just say how much I am loving this season? Eight episodes in and it’s been a cluster fuck of brilliance for the most part.

I love that this episode saw both Bill and Marnie/Antonia bringing the battle directly to each other. Marnie/Antonia was quick to point out that Bill came with an army but so did she and the battle in the graveyard during the last act of this episode was an absolute riot to witness. Sookie even got injured during the battle.

Okay, so Alcide did come to her rescue and chances are by next week, she’ll be fighting fit like Jessica was this week but it’s nice to see our main characters actually caught up in the fight. Bill got pounced on by Holly and some non descript male witch and even Eric became a victim of Marnie/Antonia once again.

Eric’s predicament is probably the one that we’re supposed to worry about more than Sookie being shot in this one. Considering that Marnie/Antonia won’t be content until all vampires are annihilated, Eric better hope that either someone comes to his rescue or he gets the better of the powerful witch before he becomes another Beulah Carter.

This has been quite an episode for Eric this week – more sex scenes with him and Sookie, more declarations of love, only this time complete with a V/Fairy trip for both him and Sookie. Those scenes with Eric and Sookie, intoxicated on each other’s blood were so shamelessly cheesy and over the top, it strayed into fanfiction territory. They were also absolutely amusing to the hilt.

Even the recreated shower scene with snow was a visual beauty. I remember loving these trippy scenes with Jason and Amy back in the first season and with Sookie and Eric, they also worked a treat. Still, sex stuff aside, it’s looking more and more likely that Eric will be soon reverting to his former self in the next few weeks. Sookie’s gonna have one hell of a reality check thrusted on her when that comes to pass.

Speaking of things coming to pass, Jessica might not have met the sun in this episode but she certainly got a double rejection this week too. Hoyt didn’t so much as give her a chance to dump him lightly when he turned on her so nastily and even Jason rejected her after she tried to talk to him.

Much as I felt bad for Jessica, I couldn’t hate on both Hoyt and Jason either. Hoyt might have said some truly awful stuff to her but something tells me when he’s calmed down, he will rue most of his comments to Jessica. Similarly, it’s also nice to see Jason think with his brain rather than his dick as well, even if he did kiss Jessica. That being said, this is Jason and something also tells me that he won’t be able to keep Jessica at arm’s length for too long.

Something that’s been dragging out for a long time finally has a point too – Mikey. Guess, what? He’s not a devil child and that woman haunting is Mavis, who had a child with a married man and lost him and now through Lafayette has taken Mikey. I might be in a minority but this storyline has suddenly become a lot more interesting than it was a few weeks back and unlike Antonia, I don’t necessarily think Mavis is intending to be a harmful ghost, though that’s now two main character currently being possessed.

Meanwhile, back to the debacle of last week – I actually find the idea of vampire suicides an interesting cover up story for Marnie/Antonia’s antics. I have to admit that Bill’s obviously been taking PR tips from Nan with this cover up. It’s also made more entertaining by Marnie/Antonia’s clear irritation that she only managed to make one vampire meet the sun.

The dynamic with Marnie/Antonia and Tara does need a little more work though. Tara went from actually questioning Marnie/Antonia’s motives to just complying with them again. Granted, Tara has a justified reason for her hatred of vampires and once again, Pam tried to kill her but can Bill change her mind (without glamouring her)?

After all, Bill maintained a level of civility with Tara when he realised she was on the witches side and he saved her from Pam. That might not be enough to prove to Tara that not all vampires are bad but maybe in the next few weeks, Tara might get an opportunity to return the favour. One can sort of hope, right? Because I don’t see the partnership she’s got with Marnie/Antonia lasting on good terms for much longer.

Last but not least, there’s Marcus. As a pack master, the guy is borderline flawless. He’s efficient, caring, great with sorting out fight between members, seemed sincere in his encouragement of Alcide and Debbie and had enough savvy to tell his members to stay out of the vampire and witch squabbles. Those are enough to make me root for the character.

Then there are his scenes with Sam, Luna and Emma and I can’t help but despise him. He clearly has his own child afraid of him, bursts into Luna’s home without an invite and tried to wage a fight with Sam. Now it’s a good way of making the character complicated but I’d rather see Marcus in pack master mode than tyranny mode myself.

Oh, and Debbie Pelt – the good girl acting is waning. Alcide clearly has the hots for Sookie and you can tell that being in a new pack is obviously not going to be enough to stop you from going crackers again. I really hate myself for this but I’m kind of looking forward to seeing Debbie back to her bat shit crazy self from last season. I feel awful for that.

Also in “Spellbound”

Two episodes written by Alan Ball and we’re not at the finale yet? My, aren’t we being spoiled this year?

Sam (to Luna, re Tommy): “I can forgive him for killing our folks but I can’t forgive him for what he did to you. I can’t.”

I liked that Sam explained to Luna about his parents and Tommy impersonating Maxine to scam her was flipping hilarious and morally reprehensible at the same time.

Sookie: “I’m trusting you, Eric.”
Eric: “I won’t betray you, ever.”
Sookie: “I may remind you of that someday.”

It seemed like both Eric’s Viking history and Sookie’s fae lineage were sort of merging during the trippy scenes. Am I the only who thought that or am I reading too much into it?

Andy: “Jesus, tits and God America, Jason. What the fuck is happening to me?”

Eric (to Sookie): “All is possible. You and me – possible. Loving you – possible.”

Where was Jesus this week? Actually, come to think of it, did he even return from Mexico last week? And can we move beyond Andy’s V addiction, considering that it’s adding nothing to the show, story wise?

Hoyt (to Jessica): “My mom was right all along. Maybe God does hate fangs. And you know, so do I?”

Eric: “I just wanna be with you, only you, forever.”
Sookie: “There’s no such thing as forever.”

Standout music: Siouxsie And The Banshee’s “Spellbound” of course.

Marnie/Antonia: “I am no lady. I am peasant and proud of it.”
Bill: “I’ve come in peace.”
Marnie/Antonia: “Do you? I know you are not alone.”
Bill: “Nor are you.”

Chronology: From where “Cold Grey Light Of Dawn” left off.

Cheesiness of Sookie/Eric’s scenes aside, “Spellbound” is my favourite episode of this season. Bloody brilliant from start to finish, an absolutely kick ass vampires and witches smackdown, nice character moments, this episode had everything I needed.

Rating: 10 out of 10

My Review of Torchwood's 4x06: "The Middle Men"

Written by John Shiban
Directed by Guy Ferland

Shanghai Contact (to Stuart): “I asked my uncle what happened. He told me to never question a miracle. You might not like what you find.”

Oh great, the whole bury your head in the sand approach – because that never causes trouble, does it? Oh wait, I think it does. For the people who are aware of the horrors that the government and PhiCorp are doing but refuse to acknowledge it – shame on you.

Gwen’s rant to Dr Alicia Patel (the anti-Vera Juarez if one was needed) might have sounded a little on the heavy handed end of the scale but what do you say to a woman in the medical profession that refuses to stand up against the modules? Alicia should probably consider herself lucky that Gwen didn’t thump her but the point still stands.

The allusions to the overflow camps as concentration camps is pretty much stating the obvious but it’s barbaric how readily nearly all the world’s governments have embraced this option to deal with the patients who are near death. There is no justification for this current dilemma but at least this episode actually went out of it’s way to combat the situation.

Gwen for instance did more than just rant about the modules – she bloody well blew the one up in Wales towards the end of the episode before the next batch of people were in them (presumably) and also managed to get her father to safety. Now that’s the Gwen Cooper we all know and love.

Not be outdone, Rex managed to get through his own anguish over Vera’s horrible demise to keep filming the extent of the module and while it did look like Colin was going to get the best of him and Esther, Rex achieved a first for Torchwood – getting their message across.

I liked that Torchwood publicly outed the modules situation as well as Vera’s death. It might have taken them six episodes to properly assert themselves but at least they’re finally fighting back in a threatening way. No more skulking about the place – Torchwood are finally posing a credible threat to PhiCorp and the world’s governments who are abusing the miracle.

Of course, nothing is ever that easy and while Torchwood are on top of their game, there’s also the issue of the blessing. What exactly is the blessing and can PhiCorp middle man Stuart Owens actually be trusted? It would be nice if Torchwood had at least one ally working within PhiCorp and Stuart seemed sincere enough to Jack during their conversation.

He wasn’t exactly deceptive when he told Jack that he had been doing his own investigation into the miracle, even if it was just dead ends (literally, considering that Shanghai contact killed himself) but still – how can he not know any more about the miracle? I know he’s supposed to be a middle man but he seems like a well connected one, so it’s a bit odd.

And speaking of middle men – how glad was I that Colin did not make it out of this episode alive? Okay, so he’s a Category 1 but both Ralph and Esther deserve medals for taking that scumbag out in the manner that they did (Esther – strangling, Ralph – shooting). While Colin was nastier than Oswald has been on screen, I certainly won’t miss him as a character.

In some ways this was also a huge moment for Esther. She may have contributed to Colin’s “death” because she was trying to save Rex but it still affected her. I know some fans will gripe about that but I like the fact that Esther isn’t a hardened character. That being said though, Esther would do well to heed Rex’s advice about picking herself up quickly. I have a feeling that tougher times are ahead for Esther.

As for Rex, the writers should pat themselves on the back. This is the second episode in a row where I’ve actually enjoyed the character. Probably because Rex was responsible for getting the world aware about the module and also because when he was being tortured by the odious Colin, I couldn’t not feel bad for the guy. Either that or heaven forbid, Rex is actually improving as a character.

However while Torchwood did achieve more victories than screw ups this week, things still went down south when Rhys, Mary and Anwen got kidnapped by a mystery abductor. I’m guessing because of this dilemma, Gwen is going to have no choice but to hand Jack over for her family and that will certainly make for some interesting television.

Also in “The Middle Men”

As well as Vera being out of the series, both Oswald and Jilly were absent from this episode as well.

Rex: “No, strike that, I’m not with the CIA or the US government authority. I’m with Torchwood and we’re gonna expose everything that’s going on here. Everything I just witnessed.”

I gotta ask – why didn’t Esther come up with an actual alias when she was in the San Pedro overflow camp? Surely, she’s on wanted lists now along with Rex.

Gwen (to Alicia): “Then you’d have to face the truth, wouldn’t you? This isn’t a hospital, this is a concentration camp.”

Stuart (to Jack): “You don’t believe me? You think I’m the epitome of evil. The devil in a three piece suit.”

I have to admit that I loved Jack’s flirting with the waiter and even Janet, the now ex mistress of Stuart Owens.

Receptionist (to Esther): “How blonde are you? It’s a lockdown, we haven’t got clearance. Stay at your desk.”

Rex: “It was you.”
Colin: “I’m sorry.”
Rex (re Vera): “You killed her.”
Colin: “I’m very sorry, it’s been a long day. I wanna go home.”

Did Rhys actually admit that Jack is an attractive fellow? He seemed to when he was trying to bluff his way past security? And where’s Gwen’s dad as well? Do the mystery kidnappers have him too?

Rex (re Colin): “What happened?”
Esther: “I killed him. Oh my God, I killed him.”

Gwen: “This is the truth for the whole world to see. We let our governments build concentration camps. They build ovens in our names. Now I don’t care if the whole of society bends over and takes this like a dog, I’m saying no.”
Jack: “That’s my girl.”

Chronology: From where “The Categories Of Life” left off.

I’ve been critical about this season and I still will be until the end but at the same, I actually loved this episode. “The Middle Men” had Torchwood being competent; it had actual progress and some decent mystery. I cannot wait for the next episode.

Rating: 9 out of 10

Top TV Pairings Part 7

Here's my penultimate part in the Top TV Pairings special. I should have the next part up by next Sunday.

Buffy The Vampire Slayer - Willow Rosenberg/Tara McClay

Long before the likes of The L Word and Lip Service and certainly before Brittana, the power lesbian couple on TV were witchy duo Willow and Tara and undoubtedly, they were also the best relationship that Joss Whedon ever devised as well. So much that it stung like a fecker when Tara was killed by misogynistic nerd Warren during the series sixth season. Kennedy was an okay addition in the seventh year but the spark wasn't the same sadly.

Glee - Kurt Hummell/Blaine Anderson

Much as I love this show, at least 80% of the relationships either bore, annoy or largely make me feel indifferent. Given the overexposure of Blaine as a character, there's a chance I might feel that way about him and Kurt in Season 3 but for now, they're the best of a surprisingly uninspired lot and I say that as a huge fan of the show.

Misfits - Simon Bellamy/Alisha Bailey

Every now and then you get an unexpected relationship and the one between Simon and Alisha in the series second year was certainly. The writers did a brilliant job with this timey-wimey (ish) love arc and hopefully the more settled version of the pairing will still be a joy to watch in the upcoming third series.

Dexter - Dexter Morgan/Lumen Pierce

I was a big fan of Dexter/Rita during the show's first four years but something about Dexter's relationship with rape victim, Lumen struck a massive chord with the series. It did seem for the first time, Dexter was allowed to be emotionally honest with a woman. It made sense that their relationship came to an end after Lumen finished off her attackers, but as an arc, it was a captivating viewing experience.

Merlin - Arthur Pendragon/Guinevere

Much better than the Camelot version of the love story, this Arthur and Gwen is one we've seen develop over three years with some needed changes as well. I personally cannot wait to see how much further their relationship is explored during the fourth year.

My Review of True Blood's 4x07: "Cold Grey Light Of Dawn"

Written by Alexander Woo
Directed by Michael Ruscio

Jessica: “The sun!”

God damn it, Marnie/Antonia! Out of all the vampires I wanted to actually see kissing daylight, Jessica wasn’t one of them – even if she did seem determined to actually kill Marnie/Antonia. Then again, maybe I shouldn’t panic just yet.

Sure, Jessica managed to get out of her restraints, tricked a guard into opening her cell and ignored Bill’s pleas before trying to walk outside but considering that Jason was inches away from her aid, there is a hopeful possibility that Jessica might not be a casualty just yet. One can at least hope, right?

This was one hell of an episode for Jessica and her bonds with three prominent men in her life. On one hand, it’s looking increasingly likely that she and Hoyt are due for splitsville once again and on the other, it’s also looking rather likely that Jessica and Jason may share a connection of sorts too.

Jessica’s blood is definitely tying Jason’s loyalties up in knots as well. He tried to console Hoyt in the best way possible but also found himself compelled to come to Jessica’s aid as soon as he became aware that magic was afoot to make vampires walk in the daylight. In that respect, I gotta love Jason. He can be quite the hero when he sets his mind to it.

However the best bonding scenes Jessica had in this episode were with Bill. I love how their relationship has evolved over the last few seasons and it’s without a doubt one of the best dynamics we have. Bill was determined to keep Jessica safe but he was also determined to keep her humanity intact too. Even the most ardent of Bill haters have to respect that at least.

Another thing worthy of respecting Bill for was the fact that he informed both Sookie and Eric about Marnie/Antonia’s spell casting antics. He could’ve left them defenceless or even locked Eric away from Sookie but he didn’t. I’m not saying that we’re gonna get a Bill who approves of Sookie/Eric but unlike last week, at least he was being mature about things.

Speaking of Sookie and Eric, more sex between them this week and also, some much needed dialogue as well. I’m glad that there’s a part of Sookie that seems aware that she couldn’t love the old Eric, even if it’s sort of contradicted by the fact that a part of the old Eric is also capable of being the man she now seems to love.

Eric this week finally got some decent clothing but once again, I think the writers overdid it on some of his dialogue to a degree. I get that this Eric is supposed to be in love with Sookie but isn’t the one he doesn’t want to turn back into also in love with Sookie? Also, it’s been six episodes and Eric’s still without memory. I thought at this point, like with last season’s Bill’s abduction that Eric would’ve regained his memory by now. I guess we’re going to have to wait a little longer.

One thing we didn’t have to wait longer for was Tara making a reckless decision again. Dumping Naomi might have been a smart thing to do but did she have to join up with Marnie/Antonia’s quest against vampires so easily? Considering how prone Tara is to making bad decisions, it might have been wise if she had actually spent more than five minutes thinking it through.

More amazingly is how quickly Holly and the rest of the coven also joined in on the act. It wasn’t so long ago that they were horrified over the necromancing and now they’re actively participating in genocide. I guess now I can feel some kind of sympathy for the vampires against Marnie/Antonia. Except for Luis, but thanks to Bill, that annoying vampire is no more, so there’s still a little plus side to the witches’ plans.

Keeping with the witch stuff – Lafayette’s a medium? Well, that’s nice but again why did Jesus’s grandfather have to put him through the ringer to convey that piece of information? And while we’re at it, can Jesus get something to do because as pretty as he is to look at; he’s feeling like a spare part too.

I did find the scene where Lafayette could see the spirit woman around Mikey interesting as well. I’m wondering if that spirit is genuinely harmful or not because she kind of seemed friendly. Let’s hope they don’t continue to drag this little plot out too long as well, even if it is nice to have an episode where Arlene isn’t ranting about her son being the spawn of Satan for once.

Meanwhile, there was a time when Pam struck me as a sharp vampire but now, without Eric, she’s letting her emotions get the better of her. Attacking Tara and Naomi is only going to bite her in the ass considering she was caught on camera and Dr Ludwig’s solution for the rotting flesh isn’t going to fix her either. Pam really is in one of the worst positions right now, isn’t she?

Last but no least – Tommy, Sam and Luna. I’m glad that Sam and Luna worked out what Tommy had done pretty quickly and while I sort of felt a tiny bit sorry for Tommy, I think he got off lightly, considering what he did to Luna. Sam had every right to throw Tommy out but for some reason, I don’t think we’re done with the character just yet.

Also in “Cold Grey Light Of Dawn”

Marnie/Antonia used Luis to kill Katie and attack Bill. I actually felt bad for Katie. She didn’t deserve to die.

Pam (to the crowd): “I am not a zombie.”

Maybe not, Pam but I really want to see what this show’s take on a zombie is. Maybe it’s something they should consider for next year.

Alcide: “It’s not right to leave her alone.”
Debbie: “It’s not right to be thinking about Sookie when we’ve joined a new pack.”

Naomi: “I changed my mind. I don’t like Tara and everything you’ve shown me says you don’t really like her. Fuck her, let’s go.”

Alcide/Debbie joined Marcus’s pack and it seems that Debbie has realised that Alcide is into Sookie. Well, she’s always known, hasn’t she?

Bill: “It appears the reunion was a happy one.”
Eric: “Yes, very much so.”
Sookie: “Shush, Eric.”

Marnie/Antonia: “You may call me Antonia.”
Tara: “Why should I call you anything?”
Marnie/Antonia: “Because we are alike. Because we have both suffered at the hands of vampires. They have raped us, fed on us, am I right?”

Where was Nan during this episode? I assumed that Bill warned her about Marnie/Antonia’s spell but it was odd not seeing her here.

Sookie (to Eric): “I’m sorry. I’ve lost too many people in my life, I can’t lose you too.”

Bill: “I’ve had 175 years on this Earth and I’ve accomplished little good. If we survive, when we survive the day, I’ll put a stop to it.”
Jessica: “But you have done good, you made me and we survive the day, I’m going to eat that fucking witch, starting with her face.”

Other bits: Steve Newlin’s been missing for six months, Andy’s date with Holly went awry and Maxine’s elderly neighbour was the only vampire we saw killed in daylight.

Marnie/Antonia (to her coven): “But understand this – vampires are not immortal. They are only harder to kill and that is where our humanity is our greatest advantage, for our human spirits are immortal. I stand before you as living proof of this very fact. I have matched my human spirit against their emptiness and I have now won. Now I require your support, so we may do so again. Let us show these vampires the fury and power of the human spirit. We have waited 400 years for this. Who of you will join me?”

Chronology: From where “I Wish I Was The Moon” left off and standout music wise, it’s gotta be Nick Lowe’s “Cold Grey Light Of Dawn”.

Well, while I preferred the previous episode, I have to admit that “Cold Grey Light Of Dawn” is fantastic. It’s nice to see Marnie/Antonia step up her game as a credible foe and while Jessica’s demise would be effective, I’m still hoping for Jason to save her.

Rating: 9 out of 10

Why We Don't Kill The Duplicate

And here's my second TV jumble blog of the week ...

Angry Boys: The finale has to air on Tuesday but I've loved the last two episodes of this show. Gran's Alzheimers storyline has been handled wonderful and it's nice that after weeks of Skype-ing that we'll actually see her interact with Daniel and Nathan in next week's episode. Also well handled was giving Smouse a sense of humanity but writing that song for the squashed Aborigine kid and having Tim get rid of his mother as a manager. Kind of gratifying considering how monstrous that character was, isn't it?

Camelot: Well, that was certainly an interesting finale. For a moment there, I actually thought Morgan's plan to take over was going to succeed but er, I guess Arthur is harder to kill after all. Stripping Morgan of her power and her nun (nice slicing skills there, Gawain) should've ended her chaos but erm, the ending means that she won't down without a fight. However, there were some hiccups. Merlin literally did nothing of interest at all in this one and Igraine's death lack something. Too bad we won't get a second run of this show.

Smallville: Teri Hatcher playing the mother of Lois Lane is one of the most exciting things this show has done and this show has always used Superman people throughout it's ten years. But seriously, an episode delivering some much needed backstory on both Tess and Granny Goodness was a winner for me. Too bad the next episode where Aquaman and Green Oliver were nearly killed by another bunch of anti-vigilante wasn't half as interesting.

The Hour: Okay, I am hooked to this show, so the less than impressive ratings that it's getting on BBC2 are slightly worrying. The episode at Hector and Marnie's country home was actually the best one we've had and that's despite Kish's death and Hector/Bel's affair being predictable as well. Still utterly loving Freddie as a character. He might be patronising at times but he certainly is charming and I bet I can guess Adam's secret as well. Only three more to go.

The Vampire Diaries: Two solid episodes in a row and also two that seemed to further stuff. Katherine may be entombed but I doubt she's going to remain that, especially considering the emphasis she put on her not killing Elena. As for Rose and Elijah, definitely two promising characters and ones that hopefully won't be bumped off so speedily. Unlike Damon, I want some actual badass vampires on this series. Oh and I loved the stuff with Tyler/Caroline and Jeremy/Bonnie in the last two episodes as well.

- It's been confirmed - Desperate Housewives will end in 2012 with it's upcoming eighth season. Both Marcia Cross and Vanessa Williams even confirmed it on their Twitter pages.
- Lara Pulver has been cast as Irene Adler in the second series of Sherlock, due to air in 2012.
- Wilfred, Louie and It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia have all been renewed by FX.
- The US X Factor will start on September 21st on FOX. TV3 will be airing it a day later for Irish viewers.
- John Stamos and Jenny McCartney will both appear in Two And A Half Men's ninth season premiere. Ashton Kutcher's character is called Walden Schmitz, a billionaire with a broken heart. Er, okay then.
- Ricky Gervais will be appearing in one season of Family Guy, playing a dolphin called Billy Flinn who moves in next door to the Griffins. Oh, joy!

My Review of Torchwood's 4x05: "The Categories Of Life"

Written by Jane Espenson
Directed by Guy Ferland

Vera: “So am I Torchwood now?”
Jack: “Welcome aboard.”
Vera: “Not sure if that’s good or bad.”

Oh, Vera, you really should have done your homework. Even when the world is immune to death, Torchwood’s almost monstrous knack for having its staffers killed can’t seem to take a break. I know this was coming but why did it have to come now?

Couldn’t Vera have made it through a few more episodes without ending up as a casualty? I guess not and as deaths go here, Vera’s wasn’t dignified and it wasn’t heroic but it sadly was believable and if there’s one thing this season is excelling at, it’s in the depiction of how human beings can become ruthless bastards in great peril.

Slimy Colin Maloney had no problem in causing misery to the poor people that he had hidden away from the public and when Vera threatened to expose him, he also had no problem in shooting her down and incinerating her. I hope for Vera’s sake, she actually is dead because no one should suffer that level of torture if she did survive being burned alive.

The episode wasted no time in showing the sinister side to the overflow camps, which means that it finally feels like this show is progressing with the storyline and that’s something to be pleased about. That being said, there are some logic gaps in relation to the overflow camp situation.

I find it a little to believe that more liberal countries would quickly cave into the idea of packing people off and I certainly find it hard to believe that for all her intelligence, that Gwen would be a tad reckless as well in her attempts to get her father. Don’t get me wrong, I applaud her determination, it’s just her planning that seemed to lack common sense.

Trying to demand her father out of the overflow camp was never going to work, even with Andy trying to use his police status and what was the point of using a fake ID when Gwen practically told those sarcastic soldiers who she was? And then there was the rescue attempt with Geraint – sadly not Gwen’s finest hour.

Instead of getting her father to safety, Gwen managed to endanger the poor man up the first category and seeing what’s just happened to Vera, Gwen really doesn’t have much time to spare before her own father could end up incinerated and that’s something the episode’s ending forced her to confront as well.

Speaking of confrontations, I just loved the exchange between Jack and Oswald in this episode as well. As if PhiCorp trying to manipulate Oswald wasn’t enough, Jack attempted to have a go at it but getting Oswald to expose PhiCorp’s prior knowledge to the miracle and for a moment, it did look like Jack was going to win.

Seeing Oswald working a crowd would’ve normally been a highlight for me because usually it is intriguing to see villains manipulate the general public but here, it was actually sickening to watch. Even though Bill Pullman is doing the best he can with this show, I find Oswald too abhorrent to root for in any way and the fact that people are stupid to follow him and believe the angel theory from Oswald is every bit as sickening as the overflow camp situation.

As for the rest of the episode – who was that guy talking to Jilly before Oswald? One of PhiCorp’s head lackey or someone else who’s interested in her PR skills? Four episodes in and Jilly is still more of an enigma than a lot of the other characters. I hope we learn more about her soon because I don’t think Lauren Ambrose has many more episodes left to go in the series and I find her character more fascinating than Oswald.

Similarly fascinating was the fact that this episode was the first one where Rex managed not to annoy me from start to finish. He was funny, helpful and clearly devastated when having to witness Vera’s demise. All in all, if we get more episodes like this with Rex, he could be more entertaining to watch.

The only character who I felt was a little short changed in this episode was Esther. Sure, she was there to help Rex and Vera during the overflow camp scenes in San Pedro and she had two nice scenes with Jack but I don’t know, maybe something was off with Esther this week or something. Still, I continue to like her a lot more than other fans seem to do.

Also in “The Categories Of Life”

Category 1: No brain function, Category 2: Ordinary people with minor problems and Category 3: People in between life and death, Rex for example.

Vera (to Rex): “Oh, I’m doing a lot more than that. I’m joining the cause. Whatever you’re doing to fight this miracle, count me in.”

This was the first episode since “The New World” where half the action was based in Wales. Now that is definitely something I want to see more of.

Gwen: “Andy, don’t be so thick.”
Andy: “It’s nice to have you back.”
Gwen: “Well, think about it – no NHS. Who’s paying for this? PhiCorp.”

Jack: “All I get is a kiss?”
Esther: “You look after yourself. You’re unique, you’re Category Jack, so don’t get yourself into trouble.”

Loved Jack telling the paramedic that Rex was his boyfriend for the latter’s reaction as well as Gwen and Rhys’s flirting at the airport. Gwen’s also still using her Yvonne Pallister alias – in this episode as a nurse.

Colin: “Look at you; you’re as thin as a twig. I’d bet you’d snap easily.”
Vera: “I’m getting there, yeah.”

Jilly (to Oswald): “Don’t get angry. Careful with the bloodlust, it’s showing.”

Phil Collins was mentioned in this episode. I wonder if we will see an actual known celebrity during this miracle debacle.

Oswald (to the miracle rally): “The truth is, I know what I am and I know what you are too. Yes, I do. Each and every one of you.”

Chronology: A couple of hours since “Escape To LA.”

This was an odd episode. In some ways, “The Categories Of Life” had excellent humour, forwarded the plot and had some suitable gore but I guess while I am enjoying the season for the most part, it doesn’t feel like the show I started watching back in 2006.

Rating: 7 out of 10

Top TV Pairings Part 6

And here's the sixth part of my TV Pairings ...

Ashes To Ashes - Alex Drake/Gene Hunt

Bollyknickers and the Guv to me were something of a sharper pairing than Gene and Sam from time to time and the show wasn't particularly subtle with the brewing attraction between them, it was fantastic to watch.

Torchwood - Captain Jack Harkness/Ianto Jones

While some of the more voracious of Janto fans can actually be off-putting to this ship, like many, I did fall in love with Jack and Ianto's relationship and was saddened to see it end during the events of the third season. Still, it was good while it lasted though.

The Sarah Jane Adventures - Clyde Langer/Rani Chandra

Okay, so these two technically haven't or have yet to become romantically involved but as a pairing, it's hard to deny that Rani and Clyde do have some wonderful potential though and they were seemingly getting closer in the fourth season of the show.

Angel - Angel/Cordelia Chase

The hell with Buffy/Angel or Buffy/Spike. The coolest Whedonverse coupling (of sorts) were Angel and Cordelia. Those two definitely brought something out of each other. Too bad Joss Whedon didn't man up and deliver more on it.

Sherlock - Sherlock Holmes/John Watson

No, I don't believe they're gay for each other but the relationship between Sherlock and Watson has been the most defining and important one, regardless of the various interpretations we've had with them and the newest version with Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman is no different in that regard.

No I Won't Cry

And this week, I'll be doing two TV jumble blogs, so here's the first one ....

Camelot: Okay, these last two episodes I have absolutely loved to bits. Morgan as Igraine for an entire episode made me reassess Claire Forlani's acting performances but even after the chaos she caused, I still had to admire how Morgan managed to turn the situation to her advantage. Even though I've had no issue with Arthur personally, his recklessness does seem to be biting him in the backside, doesn't it? The situation with Guinevere and Leontes couldn't have come at a worse time and even Merlin can't seem to outsmart Morgan, can he? Looking forward to seeing how this short lived series actually ends on Saturday.

Mildred Pierce: Am I the only one disappointed with this series? It started so well but I think it ended up running for two episodes too long and funnily enough, the last two weren't that thrilling. Did I really need to know that as an adult that Veda would still be an unbearable anti-christ? Probably not but at least Mildred tried to strangle her at one point and the bitch fecked off to New York. Mildred, count your blessing if you really do never see the brat again.

Sirens: Good set of last few episodes. I really hope this show is picked up for a second run. It's not exactly a series that reinvents the wheels but it's thankfully nowhere near as juvenile as it could've been. And the characters have developed a little - Stuart confronting his father issues, Ashley his issues with relationships and Rachid's own issues with the job itself. Even Maxine has progressed some since the first episode. Please Channel 4, another run?

The Hour: I caught up with the first two episodes and I think I'm in love with it. The Mad Men comparisons aren't totally justified but I do understand where they come from but controversially enough, I'm finding this show more enjoyable than the antics of Don Draper and company. The running of a topical programme, the characters of Freddie, Bel and Hector, the social and political elements and the murder mystery with the creepy Kish. If you're not watching this show, you should catch it.

- Justin Breuning has been cast as a love interest for Bridget in Ringer.
- Felicity Huffman has revealed that the opening episode of the new season of Desperate Housewives will revolve around the women getting rid of Alejandro's body.
- Tom Everett Scott has joined the cast of Good Christian Belles in a recurring role of a former high school nerd turned millionaire.
- Alan Ball will be returning to work on the fifth season of True Blood. It hasn't been decided what the next season big bad will be though.
- Sean Hayes will be starring in a new sitcom for NBC, scheduled to air on the station in 2012.
- Grey's Anatomy's new season will pick up five days after the seventh season finale.
- Jack Coleman will be appearing in the third season of The Vampire Diaries.

My Review of True Blood's 4x06: "I Wish I Was The Moon"

Written by Raelle Tucker
Directed by Jeremy Podeswa

Bill: “Sookie is not mine.”
Eric: “But you love her.”
Bill: “Irrelevant.”

Okay, so that exchange of quotes is nowhere near as funny as the one Bill made about Sookie’s prowess but here’s another episode where the two vampires who love/are obsessed with Sookie duke it out and one of them managed to have sex with the supernatural tinged barmaid at the end of the episode.

Eric, alone for his cringe inducing comments should be gagged but he made some rather perceptive points about Bill and Sookie, points I have a feeling that probably enraged certain viewers of this show but certainly good pointers none the less.

Bill isn’t over Sookie by a long shot but seems to have accepted (to a point) that their relationship is over but at the same time, was spurred by his jealousy and hatred for Eric is trying to bring the true death to the amnesiac vampire.

Until normal circumstances, Bill would’ve gone through with killing Eric but the other vampire’s comments managed to spare his life. Unfortunately they made me want to barf a little. Even in an amnesiac state, I have a hard time believing that Eric would both submit to Bill and even give his rival some hope for Sookie. It just seemed a little too out of character for a character who isn’t acting himself. Does that make sense?

However for those of you who are delighted that Eric managed to be freed from Bill and his AVL henchmen, the plus side to this episode was both the Viking vampire and Sookie finally getting it on. Again, I am not a shipper but it was a nicely done scene between Sookie and Eric and the most hardcore of shipper should probably be pleased with the results.

That being said, I really hope for Sookie’s sake that she doesn’t allow herself to actually fall in love with Eric. I doubt Adele said the relationship wouldn’t last for her own amusement in the afterlife and truth be told, Sookie also has other issues that are worth addressing as well, such as her fairy lineage and Jason’s own supernatural problems.

I don’t believe for a second that we would’ve been subjected to Jason being kidnapped, raped and savaged by the Hotshot crew if the end didn’t result in him becoming a were panther. Granted, they’re a dumb bunch but just because Jason didn’t change during this full moon, it doesn’t mean that he won’t during the next one.

I liked that Jason actually had to tell Sookie about what happened to him and that we got to see her in supportive sister mode. Okay, so his scenes with Jessica comforting him were a lot more interesting (I’m getting worried – I might actually like a Jason/Jessica pairing) but at the same time, it’s just nice to see Jason and Sookie actually interact more with each other.

Speaking of interaction, anyone else slightly disappointed that Sookie couldn’t tell that Sam wasn’t himself? I know shifters are harder to read but Sookie’s been friends with Sam long enough that she should’ve been a tad suspicious when he fired her in the manner that he did. Still, considering that Sookie barely even seems to work at her job, I’m not surprised that Tommy took it upon himself to fire her whilst looking like Sam.

Ah, Tommy – last week I felt bad for you and this week you reminded me of what a little shit you are. Firing Sookie is hardly the worst thing he could’ve done but sleeping with Luna and running her was pretty damn nasty. I know Tommy didn’t deliberately intend to turn into Sam but he could’ve made an effort to not try and wreck his brother’s love life, especially given that Sam’s actually been trying to help him again.

In terms of helping, can I just say that Jesus’s grandfather really is the worst person to turn to in times of need? Sure, his antics got Lafayette to possess a spirit but they also nearly got Jesus killed via rattlesnake and a decent person would’ve conveyed the information about Marnie through conversation rather than bullshit sacrifices. Just saying is all.

Also while we’re on the communication front, it’s nice that Tara and Naomi actually got to talk honestly about the former’s double life but why the heck did we have to have Pam go feral and attack Naomi? Hasn’t Tara been crapped on enough in this show? How many lovers is that girl going to lose? If Naomi does survive Pam, then I have a horrid feeling that Tara’s going to be single again anyways.

In better plots, it did seem like the creepy doll and baby plot with Arlene, Terry and Mikey is advancing. Arlene clearly loves her son but was worried that he caused the fire. The fact that Mikey is seeing spirits as well probably won’t be a comfort to Arlene if she becomes privy to that piece of information.

Last but not least – Marnie/Antonia have combined forces and I will be one disappointed viewer if Luis does not meet the sun. Considering that he took absolute pleasure in raping Antonia before her death, I really do hope that he gets one hell of a comeuppance for the crap he subjected her.

Also, six episodes in, it’s nice that Marnie finally has the power that she’s been craving for. I’m aware that the consequences will be dire for nearly everyone involved but it also means that the storylines will finally progress and it’s certainly high time that the vampires of this show were taken down a peg or not.

Also in “I Wish I Was The Moon”

Can we get Eric a new set of clothes now? That tracksuit combo has kinda worn it’s sell by date.

Eric (re Bill): “Who is this vampire to you?”
Sookie: “He is your King.”

I think this is the first episode we’ve had this season where a main or recurring character hasn’t died. Well, apart from seeing Antonia’s execution again.

Bill: “Believe it or not but my entire existence does not revolve around what or who is between your legs.”
Sookie: “Don’t you dare speak to me like that.”

Jesus: “Sometimes there are more important things than pride, Grandpa.”

Anyone else bored of Andy’s treatment of Sam? On the plus side, I am interested in seeing what his date with Holly will turn out to be like.

Tara: “Long story.”
Naomi: “Then you better start telling it.”

Debbie: “I don’t know anyone other than Sookie and she hates me.”
Alcide: “You’ve got me, we’re together. I thought that’s what you wanted.”

Alcide caved in a little too easily with him and Debbie joining Marcus’s pack, didn’t he? Also, the hostility between Debbie and Sookie could be smelled a mile off.

Jason: “The second I start sprouting fur, I want you to shoot me right in the head.”
Sookie: “I’m not gonna shoot you.”
Jason: “But you promised.”
Sookie: “I promised I’d take care of you.”

Debbie: “Hey Sookie, did I scare you?”

Standout music: Neko Case’s “I Wish I Was The Moon”.

Pam (to Tara/Naomi): “Girls, no need to squabble. There’s plenty of me to go around.”

Marnie/Antonia: “Father Luis, what a surprise. Coincidence you think or fate?”
Luis: “Antonia.”
Marnie/Antonia: “I know I look different but you made such a mess of my last body, this one will have to do.”
Luis: “You mad whore. You burned my maker. This time you will scream.”

Chronology: Straight from where “Me And The Devil” left off with Sookie and Eric.

Overall, I really loved this episode. Yes, “I Wish I Was The Moon” had some niggles but it was such a great character driven episode, it was hard not to love. More importantly, both this season and Marnie have really found their groove, so kudos on that one too.

Rating: 9 out of 10