This is America, ain't it? Who the fuck's stoppin' ya?
Oh god. Please, please believe me when I say I did not type this long entry out all in one sitting. It was a week's process-a long proper week's process. I even documented my progress on Tumblr and Twitter multiple times. I have proof. I can show you the receipts. I also may have driven myself mad plenty of times while writing and cried blood but it was all worth it now that I've publicly posted this. So, loves, remember: no judging. If you're LJ friends with me, you are probably equally as obsessed with television. It ain't no thing. Embrace it!
90210
I am not embarrassed at all for enjoying 90210. I do believe more people would be less judgmental over it if it wasn't a remake, or sequel, to Beverly Hills and honestly, if you are still enjoying Gossip Girl with no shame, there's no reason why you should talk. It's rather improper to judge and all but, really, this show manages to retain some of its character development and its actors don't always give me second hand embarrassment or use a whisper to hide their English accents. With that said, the premiere last week wasn't want I expected in some parts-like, uh, the totally convenient death of No Drama Adrianna's Pop Star Ex-Boyfriend and Ivy having feelings for Miguel Lopez-Fitzgerald #3 her 'British' childhood friend while he carries on a causal fling with her mother-but overall it wasn't that bad. Nixon continues to not exist in my world which I find shameful as I liked him in the first season and I adore Tristan Wilds always for his performance in the Wire but the writers really screw the character over. It's kinda amazing how much I've grown to love Annie but I hate how the Jasper arc concluded off screen because you are telling me he burnt down Liam's boat in the finale then disappeared into thin air. How totally not fair! But, whatever, LIAM/ANNIE OTP. I am so down with this ship. Whatever on Middle Age Teddy. I just hope his upcoming gay storyline isn't second hand embarrassing inducing and doesn't end with him leaving the show permanently.
I was seriously stressing over the sexual harassment storyline they gave Naomi last season then wasn't too thrilled when it turned into a rape storyline as they are never too realistic on television programs-especially on television programs aimed at the teenage demographic and daytime soaps-but color me impressed at the everything: from the writing to AnnaLynne McCord pulling it off. I never realized it until now but she's seriously one of the strongest, if not the strongest, actress on the series because, damn, she really brought her A game. So I am now genuinely interested in seeing where they take this since Naomi confided in Silver over her rape only to have Silver believe she's lying due to skilled manipulation by Mr Creeper. Realistic; however, not amused. I just hope nothing else tragic happens to the poor girl. I understand the writers giving Naomi more the more intense storylines because McCord has proven herself capable of handling them in a less unintentionally hilarious matter than Shenae Grimes and the LOL I RAN OVER JASPER'S UNCLE AND I DIDN'T KNOW UNTIL AFTER I TRIED BREAKING UP WITH THE EMOTIONALLY ABUSIVE BASTARD FOR THE ENTIRE SECOND SEASON-I mean, Grimes wasn't bad but she wasn't good either-but it seems Naomi just cannot catch a break nowadays. Unlike No Drama Adrianna, she doesn't typically create her messes.
Boardwalk Empire
There are no words to describe my emotions towards this show and I've only seen the pilot.-I mean, I only went into the show knowing it was based non-fiction book, and the pilot was written by Terence Winter and directed by Martin Scorsese. What else did I need to know, really? With those names attached I figured they would hire the right actors for the roles then everything else would come together rather seamlessly and I was correct in that assumption (for once). Now, first of all, I must mention how excited I was with the Al Capone reveal. I was just chilling at my computer when he told Jimmy his name then I let out a legitimate fangirl scream. Here's a little known fact about myself: when I was younger, I absolutely stanned for Al Capone-well, as much as a preteen black girl could. My father and I use to bond over documentaries about the guy and his crew. My mother didn't find it proper but, nevertheless, that was how we spent our Sundays for good couple years. I just loved the Prohibition crime era dearly when I was younger; however, it wasn't something I talked a lot about with my friends because they didn't ~understand. So, yeah, that was a little excitable moment for me filled with many people in my household thinking I went mad.
I am passionately forever in love with the set design, my god. I want to lick it because that's the appropriate reaction. From what I understand, television critics have been mentioning the price tag of the pilot being, oh, around $50 million US and I want to die because I'll never see that much money in my life but you can see they did not waste a single penny. That boardwalk is the most beautiful thing I've ever witnessed on television (outside the Pushing Daisies sets). Boardwalk Empire seriously represents everything I love about HBO. When they go out, they go all out and don't make a fess and cut corners. You can tell the boardwalk could legitimately function and withstand high traffic and, now that it got a season two renewal, you know their investment paid off. It's just magnificent. There's nothing else to say about it because, if there is, I may end up on a hospital bed, typing myself to death over a television production set... though that would be an interesting way to die.
Naturally I had to go and fall in love with Jimmy. I don't know why but I love him dearly and, while I don't believe I should hope he succeeds at being a quality gangster (as that would be weird and probably improper), I will love every moment of his character development. I just get absolutely smitten with characters who are little pains in the asses and you can tell he loves his family and would do anything for them-excluding accepting a straight and narrow career with the temperance police-and, my god, his speech about coming back from the war killed me. I have thoughts about the nature of war and what it does to a person but it's different when you see it address on television. Jimmy doesn't fashion himself a hero like most. He believes himself a killer-a proper serial murder, basically-and, though we get war dramas like Band of Brothers, The Pacific and Generation Kill that manages tale a complete story, we often get stuck with what amounts to propaganda and just an image that these boys are happy and fulfilled by serving in the military. We often forget that most weren't signing up for 'glory' and recognition. They either wanted to go to school or be able to afford a place to live etc but I don't know what I am going with this so I will now shut up. I don't know. With that said, Jimmy's shaping up to be a real fantastic character and I'll worship the ground he walks on while the show explores the shades of gray of Prohibition and its crime.
Well, uh-I never want another sex scene with Steve Buscemi again in my hopefully long lifetime. It was extremely awful for me to watch. My eyes are very sensitive to that sort of activity and it was painful. I was not drunk enough-my sister made some mix drinks Monday night; sue me-to properly enjoy the hilarity of Nucky's girlfriend going 'WE WERE FUCKING' because I was focused on 'WHY GOD WHY AM I SEEING STEVE BUSCEMI NAKED RIGHT NOW?' I know I am being shallow by saying that but I am more worried about my sanity than protecting an image I may or may not have. Nucky is a very compelling character nevertheless. I did have a little 'Oh, you just got burned' moment when Jimmy told him he needed to stop being 'half a gangster'. That was cold so I obviously appreciated that. If you lot haven't learned, I am a horrible person. Also I hope the ladies of Boardwalk Empire amount to more than being token love interests. I already have a show were I am extremely displeased with its treatment of woman characters-I love you, Sherlock, but no-so I'm not interested in adding another. I have good hope though. I did like the women on Sopranos so I hope Winter is capable of expanding their roles and/or adding some more awesome women to the Boardwalk lineup.
If not, whatever, I'll probably be smitten with Margaret anyway. Truth be told, I think I already am.
Fringe
I am prone to hyperbole. We all know this, correct? Well, if you aren't, I am going to introduce you to my prowess: my best life decision was getting into Fringe. I originally had it on my schedule when it first premiered two years ago but I never got around to watching it for reasons I've yet understand. This summer, however, I made sure I added it on my schedule so, after watching the Vampire Diaries, I picked it up. I never fell in love with a cast quicker than with this show. They are brilliant to me: Peter, Walter, Olivia, Astrid, Broyles, Charlie etc. They are all brilliant. I don't know what exactly draws me into the show. I've always been a fan of science fiction but there's something different about the show. Though it strays into Hollywood science quite often, it is so rooted in reality that it's almost possible these things can happen in over here and the relationships are quite the draw themselves. Peter and Walter always toe the line of adorable and heartbreaking and that's partially due to the skillful acting from Pacey Joshua Jackson and John Noble. I recall crying the first time I watched 2.19 The Man from the Other Side when Peter confronted Walter about his origins then again during 2.21 Northwest Passage when Walter had his supermarket breakdown. I recall crying the first time I watched 2.19 The Man from the Other Side when Peter confronted Walter about his origins then again during 2.21 Northwest Passage when Walter had his supermarket breakdown. Don't get me started on Olivia Dunham. Her haters often say she's an emotional drone and Anna Torv cannot act but, please, I was attracted to her character from the very beginning.-I mean, how can you describe Olivia as emotionless? She heavily protects herself from people, yes, and she slightly opens up throughout the series, yes, but she's always been emotional to me. You see Olivia is so perfect in my eyes and a reason why I could never settle with preferred type of lady character. If I had a small narrow view on what constitute as quality character, I would probably be like the poor souls who hate on her. It shouldn't be a problem that you can't read her like an open book. It should be understandable once you get to know her character. The people who hate Olivia are lost while I am in love. But...
OLIVIA! ;---;
Fuck you, Walternate. This now doubles as a John Noble needs an Emmy™ blog. It's amazing how he's able to act out two separate but similar characters and, god, he will-he should-get his dues eventually. Let's get back to the subject at hand. My heart absolutely breaks for Olivia right now. I couldn't imagine going through that sort of hell and fucked up mind games. It took an episode for her to gain Alt!Olivia's memories and now she has them and I yelling at my television set 'no, Olivia, please don't forget about Peter, your one true love' then we got to the last five minutes and Alt!Olivia is totally macking with Peter. I'll probably get into Alt!Olivia and Peter by the end of episode two since I am, first and foremost, a multi-shipper and, secondly, highly predictable; however, I am going to be difficult today and be all like GURL IF YOU DON'T BACK OFF OF OLIVIA'S MAN! I don't know, man. I partially hope this arc is over rather quickly and not just for ship reasons. Olivia belongs over here, not over there and I love the Walter + Peter + Olivia (+ Astrid) dynamic way too much. I am not afraid the writers might ruin it with Alt!Olivia-I actually like Alt!Olivia-but they've been good with their past storylines that I don't want to see them drag this one out longer than they should. That wouldn't be fair.
Also, god, the scene where Olivia meets up with her mother was just so heartbreaking. You can tell she wanted to hold one to her world so dearly but BOOM! the mother card gets played.-I mean, damn, I still want Olivia over here but I find myself stuck between a rock and a hard place over Olivia's mother. When she finally 'accepted' Alt!Olivia's memories, you could just tell how happy she was having her mother in her life again and I don't want her to lose that again. But, seriously though, how hasn't Walter and Peter caught on re: Alt!Olivia. SHE WAS TOTALLY HATING ON HIS SHOES AND OREOS IN THE LAST SCENE. I love her (and I don't know why honestly) but her Olivia impression needs some serious work. These foolish boys not seeing the obvious are kinda hilariously pathetic. I'll cut them some slack nevertheless.
Anna Torv needs an Emmy now. This also doubles as an Anna Torv needs an Emmy™ blog.
Mad Men
I haven't talked Mad Men over here in an awfully long time, though I haven't gotten a clue why. I often start writing these TL;DR entries about the latest episode in my head but they never seem to make their way online-well, online on my livejournal. I have a few discussions over AIM with Ashley and Amara every now and then. (If you notice me online, you are welcome to hit me up btw. My contact information is listed on Tumblr and the profile.) What is there to say about Mad Men other than just about everything? You can list me as well under 'Well I didn't exactly care for Sunday's episode but it was still stronger than most television currently on air.' I don't know... Ida Blankenship's death was rather hilarious; however, I don't think it rather lived up to the British dude losing his foot last season in 'Guy Walks into an Advertising Agency'. That was just classic Mad Men hilarity ensuing. And, my god, did Weiner really have to make the first black man with a speaking role this season a mugger? I've noticed this season has been whiter than the last three which I didn't even think possible since we only had Carla, the elevator attendant and janitors yet LOL they managed then gave the robbery scene. I know I should have hope about the 3LW reject Naturi Naughton being cast as a character later this season but I've given up on having a substantial black role given to, well, anyone on this program. It's never been a matter of them not being capable of doing it. It's always been a matter of them not wanting to do it and I am willing to argue if you dare to disagree. You lot already know my feelings.
The last two weeks' episodes, however, were beautiful stunning perfect; I don't know where to begin. I admit I found Don's narration in 'The Summer Man' heavy-handed and obvious the series like everyone else but I was surprised it worked for the period piece. It was like a self-contained novel around his self-improvement hour. I was just rather surprised that he is making an honest effect to change his bad habits (LOL HIS DRINKING THO) and it wasn't preclude to some hopeless downward spiral.-I mean, I often go week after week from hating the man passionately to appreciating his business expertise to wishing I could murder if in the most painful manner possible but, suddenly, I do want to see him improve himself and I do believe that's possible with Don Draper. I never thought he was irredeemable. I just thought he was rather self-destructing and not worthy of my pity like majority of Mad Men's male characters. Pete's the only lead male character where my thoughts and adoration never changed... then he had to go rape the au pair and I had some serious self-reflection on why I enjoyed his character show much. Enough about Pete since he hadn't had much to do the last couple weeks even though Ken Cosgrove Accounts is back in the picture. My OTP is together again yet nothing joyous has come out of it lately. I CAN'T GO AROUND SEEING 'REUNITED AND IT FEELS SO GOOD' WHEN NOTHING'S HAPPENING. It would so passé.
I am forever torn over the Peggy and Joan disagreement. You would think I would've made up my mind over it after reading several arguments for and against another but I do see both sides. I don't know. Joan and Peggy comes from two different lines of thinking: one is more progressive and one is definitely not-at least, not right now-but I hope this doesn't mean Joan won't be able to keep up with the ever-moving times. She's obviously having troubles adapting unlike Peggy (and, as an extension, Pete) but I don't know. I don't know. I always want Peggy and her to be BFFs as I still believe they could learn from each other. However, right now, Joan's character is shaping up to be someone who time forgot and a relic of the past while Peggy's really shaping to be the future and so like the 1960s second wave feminists (complete with their dismissal and/or ignorance over why the Civil Rights movement is necessary [to which I say 'LOL WHITE PEOPLE']). Why can't everyone just form a circle, hold hands and sing their favorite negro spiritual? That's what I would do in this situation. Spoiler alert: I lied right there. I lie a lot for the sake of awkward humor.
re: 'The Suitcase'. I haven't jumped on the Don/Peggy bandwagon yet and I do hope Weiner explores a more Anna-Don type relationship before the eventual hook up. Yeah I am done resisting. I admit defeat. You will never see this again. Don and Peggy will end up together like their real life counterpoints whether I like it or not... It was a beautiful, touching episode nonetheless. That's what I mean and I should stress that. I kinda cried. Here's my obligatory needs more Pete comment though. Vincent Kartheiser won't get his ever-so needed Emmy nomination if he has little to work with.
Nikita
It has potential, I guess? No, really, I haven't got much to say about this show because, right now, it is kinda a chore to watch and it didn't help I wasn't fully interested in the show to begin with.-I mean, I have admitted to solely watching this show for Maggie Q. I don't particularly care for the actress-she's all right-but I am like YAY AN ASIAN FEMALE LEADING IN AN AMERICAN TELEVISION PROGRAM and I want to see it successful for CW standards. However, I have yet developed any interest in any characters.-I mean, LOL SHANE WEST majorly. I've never been a fan of the sassy black girl stereotype so whenever she's onscreen I am thinking 'CW, please put me out of this misery'. And who's the white girl anyway? Your existence is bothering me. Please focus more on Nikita being awesome. Anyway, the writing is currently extremely tragic in a 'tell, don't show' way. I just can't deal half the time but I go for a standard five episodes before I drop a program out of disinterest and it wouldn't be fair if I make an exception for this program. I honestly wish Nikita improves more than anything because I do want to like this show. I really do but its writing and Shane West are ruining it for me. It's mostly Shane West though. I can deal with sub-par writing, okay. I watched Covert Affairs, okay. It's not me. It's you, Shane West. You suck the fun out of everything. You are a fun vampire. I seriously hope you know this. If not, someone needs to inform then blacklist you from Hollywood.
Rubicon
It's, uh-how many of you lot are actually enjoying this program? I watched a couple episodes with Kendra, my 'I-Didn't-Know-You-Existed-Until-Now' cousin, and she didn't particularly like it, citing she found it too 'slow' and the characters lacked any interested to continue on. I also recall Jillian mentioning she was interested in the program in August; however, I don't talk television with my friends nowadays unless I am judging them over loving Supernatural or little bits of Doctor Who so I legitimately don't know her thoughts and opinion for once. Then I have Britt and having Livejournal friends with the same interests are always nice but still... I don't know. That's only three people I know who've seen more than one episode: one didn't like it; the other I am completely lost on; and LOL Britt. (Sorry, darling, I may sound like I am dismissing you but I deeply appreciate your existence and your thoughts on anything and everything and ILU; that's more than I typically say about most people.) Well, I know I like it so, if that means I am talking to an echo chamber, so be it.
Now, pondering who watches Rubicon aside, I fancy the series largely as a visual novel and, now that we got pages and pages of exposition out of the way, the plot is unraveling rather quickly-or rather, I should say, quicker than the initial speed-and my interests in the characters (outside Will's Moments of Manpain™) continue to increase exponentially which is definitely a good thing. I find myself rather smitten with Maggie and Tanya though that shouldn't come at a complete surprise since I have a natural bias towards female characters. I can't say I was pleased with Kale's actions regarding having Maggie spy on Will for the first few episodes then awkwardly removing her from the position once he realized her growing feeling towards Will but that comes from me not fully understanding his motives.-Like, seriously, are or aren't we suppose to trust him. I do appreciate the program's inability to spell it out for us but he's just so CLICHE MYSTERIOUS at times that I am like 'Oh lord, he said something vague; let's start the musical score!' and it happens.
I, honest to god, sound like I harbor a serious disliking towards the show whenever I talk about it but that's not the case. It's just I feel this show benefits from marathon watching than a week by week basis as I found myself understanding a bit more when I watched the Labor Day marathon a couple weeks back. It's also surprising we only have four more episodes in this season and there hasn't been news about its renewal. I do hope it gets a second season because I think it would move quicker than this and more people will find themselves enjoying it. Or maybe everyone else is right and Rubicon will just not 'happen'. It's rather too early to tell. Not everything is an overnight success; everyone's quick these days to forget that. But, right now, I am content that Will and Katherine will finally have some legitimate conversations after weeks and weeks of working the same possible conspiracy from different sides. I think they have shared the same screen one other time before but obviously nothing came about. I assume it just wasn't the right time for either character. That's always the case with these stories.
Undercovers
I loved it. That shouldn't come as a surprise if you follow me on Tumblr and/or saw the many posts I created about the show on ONTD for the past couple months but I loved it and those reviewers who were hating can just go straight to hell because I don't know what show they were watching. I admit the pilot had its cheesy moments but Gugu and Boris made such a cute believable couple. Mekia Cox was a fantastic recast even though it plays with the common colorism issues within the black community and Hollywood casting. It's something I can easily get over because she made a cute Lizzy to Gugu's Samantha so I can't wait to see how Sam and Steven return to the spy game affects their relationship.-I mean, it shouldn't be walk in the park like the pilot initially presented it. Eventually Lizzy will be like 'Uh, I do have a life here so you two can't unexpectedly disappear every couple weeks to wherever you two go'. Oh god, I am already plotting future episodes in my head. That's how much I enjoyed it. And I cannot believe I loved Bill, the technical support guy. I am still upset over the review I read calling Ben Schwartz the breakout star of the show as that such a typically response from reviewers. Of course, they are going to fall in love with the character most like them; how dull. But, god, his little ass-kissing behind is so adorable and I can't wait to see more of him. I kinda hope Steven Bloom and him grow to have a totally awesome friendship because, well, I know I'll probably get tired the hero worship.
OH, OH, OH-may I mention how pleased I was to have J.J. Abrams back in the director's seat? I know this will sound awfully cliche of me but I've always loved his direction and he did not disappoint. We got obscured faces, long shots, and his token lens flare moment made an appearance eighteen minutes into the program. As I mentioned on Tumblr a couple days ago, I was seriously gonna flip if we did not get one lens flare out of the man. We've all seen Star Trek or Lost or Fringe or Alias. We know that his motif. It seriously puts me at ease since, outside my online circle, no one understands my love for that technique. There's nothing like a well placed lens flare. They often make a beautiful scene unforgettable if done correct and J.J. Abrams always succeeds. But I don't know. I loved it. I don't know what else I should say about it.-I mean, they made a believable couple and show how the characters slowly rediscovered the passion they had for another. I was just drawn in from the first scene. I do hope we get to see some of the clients they service truth be told. If Abrams and co are trying for a light dramedy, there has to be some hilarious story to tell there to balance out their intense missions. I don't know. I am not a writer.
You lot don't understand how badly I needed this show in my life. I read an interview with Boris and Gugu from MSNBC and he mentioned how he didn't want to be a trailblazer (or rather: the 'affirmative action guy') and I understand why he had his reservations about the program. Television has been getting whiter and whiter over the past few years. We've just regressed so much since the new millennium dawn and it's so discouraging as a POC seeing this show being marked as a 'revolution'. It shouldn't be a 'revolution'. It should be common thing to see. We should be seeing Blacks, Asians, Hispanics, Natives etc in leading roles on television and films, not playing support to the hot white guy or girl. It gets old seeing minorities getting shoehorned into one role. Then, if we make it into a quality show, the actors or program or show doesn't get the praise it deserves.-I mean, critics often talk about how The Wire was one of the best television programs to air ever and it was completely groundbreaking and showed Baltimore in a realistic light but it never won a single major award. It only got nominated for an 'Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series' Emmy twice and that's about it other than a few NAACP awards. Come on. We couldn't get a few much deserved acting nominations? This is something I'll honestly never get over. I am derailing my own post though. I am pleased he decided to take the role because I can't picture anyone else in it. I know shade gets thrown at him due to his acting skills but I thought he made a great fit and, damn, he's so easy on the eyes. People have accepted less from uglier other actors. Yeah, I know that was mean but we are all thinking it. Don't you dare lie. I also have to give praise to Gugu's American accent. I don't know what's up but, when Brits do American accents on British television, they are absolutely dreadful and embarrassing yet we manage to import British actors who can do fantastic American accents for American programs. (You see, I am clearly ignoring the existence of the Rex Is Not Your Lawyer clip. That was awfuly tragic. My god, David Tennant, when did you become someone I laughed at?) I am proud of her.
Just this show. Even though it didn't do so well with the reviews, many people said it had potential and scored a six share with the Nielsen ratings. I normally wouldn't consider it a success but it's (a) on NBC where television goes to die and (b) it stars black people so I didn't expect anything higher and (c) did I mention it's on NBC the network that regularly places forth. But, yeah, if a six share can keep Chuck around for four seasons, I have high hope for Undercovers getting at least a back nine.-I mean, really, it was a delight. That only means I highly advise everyone to check it out.
The Vampire Dairies
Where do I even begin? When I started watching Vampire Diaries the beginning on the summer, I never fathom falling hard. It's a supernatural show on the CW and, not only that, it was focused on a gentlemen vampire/lady human romance and history has proven that this trope doesn't exactly have the brightest track record. Plus, it was green-lighted partly due to the book and film success of the Twilight series. You would be a septic too. Luckily I was proven wrong because I was hooked by the second half of the first season and it increasingly because one of the best shows on currently television. I've never seen a teen program so well paced as the Vampire Diaries. Look, I loved Buffy the Vampire Slayer too but you have to admit there were moments where everything felt a little rushed. I've yet felt that way with Vampire Diaries. Every episode has importance. No time has been wasted. I said above that I fancied Rubicon as a visual novel; well, I am also applying that sentiment with the Vampire Diaries because it just continues to grow and grow so fluidly. It's like art. I know I am committing blasphemy by calling Vampire Diaries art but, god, that's like the only word I can call it right now. I just love almost-I wouldn't be me if I didn't have a couple complaints but we'll get to that later-everything about it.
Well, since I am predictable, I already thoroughly ranted about the treatment Bonnie and Elena-especially Bonnie-gets from the Vampire Diaries fandom on Tumblr so I won't rehash everything I said there here. I don't think it needs to be said since I only friend the best and you lot proven time and time again that, that statement is way too true. It's just-I don't know. I love all the lady characters in this program because they all bring something different to the table and all make fantastic friends-well, okay, only Bonnie, Elena, and Caroline since they weren't exactly friends with April, Anna etc-and you can tell they deeply care for one another and aren't in serious competition. That's sadly so rare for television friendships. There's like this unwritten rule that if there are more than two women on the show, whether or not they are close best friends, they will find themselves in direct competition with each other and typically over a guy. That doesn't happen on Vampire Diaries. Whenever Bonnie, Elena or Caroline had a conflict with another, they talked it out rather maturely. HOW CAN YOU NOT LOVE THIS SHOW?! Even though TVD has a legitimate problem with killing off the lady supernaturals (and that's why I am so worried for Caroline's fate in the next few episodes-please don't Nikki her off) compared the men, this is still one of the most feminist shows currently airing. These characters run the show. These characters have their strengths and their weakness. They are equals within their romantic entanglements.-I mean, come on, they could've easily gone the Twilight route with Elena and Stefan but they didn't. They are fundamentally the anti-Edward/Bella. Where Edward mostly made all Bella's decisions for her, Stefan and Elena discuss everything. Then, if Stefan does something shady about her life decisions without consulting her, she basically goes 'Fuck you, I do want I want.' They are complete and true equals in a relationship where there's typically icky power dynamics at play. With that tangent said, the ladies of TVD are the most well-rounded on the show and I adore it. So it's probably best I move on to a different subject like the show's plot and other vampire goodness?!
I am still honestly shaking and crying over Katherine turning Caroline because, like I said before, this show doesn't have a good track record with keeping female supernaturals around withstanding Bonnie and, probably, Katherine and it's obvious they never knew what to do with her character. I don't know. I was a huge fan of human Caroline. I liked how passionate she was with her school functions and Founders' Day activities. I liked how Matt and she was our window to normalcy though she was best friends with two people so knee deep in vampire/magical business. However, vampire Caroline brings something new between Matt and her friends.-I mean, the look Bonnie had on her face when she realized Caroline was newly turned was so heartbreaking and I hope their friendship will be okay in the long term because (a) Bonnie still hasn't properly dealt with her grandmother's death and the very existence of vampires and helping them was what lead to it and (b) Caroline is stuck learning how to function in this society without raising awareness of her vampire success, especially since her mother is, like, Vamp Hunter Extraordinaire with other Mystic Falls residents. Luckily Stefan managed to convince Bonnie to make Caroline a little magic ring to get around the whole 'Well, gee, I wonder why my daughter refuses to go into the light' deal. BUT, YES, LET'S TALK ABOUT BONNIE AND CAROLINE AGAIN. I understand why Bonnie has her issues with vampires but, urgh, those two are breaking my heart. I want them to be okay again and I know Caroline has the heart to be ... like Stefan, I guess. I believe in her. I believe in her. Please don't Nikki her show. Please don't Nikki her and don't break Matt and her up. They are too cute. I can't see her with anyone else. Let us ignore I also ship her with Stefan thanks to that scene in 2.02. However, I ship everyone with Stefan truth be told. I am trying to figure out when Stefan became my shippable person in the show but he has and I totally support Stefan/Elena, Stefan/Caroline, Stefan/Bonnie. I am so glad I am a multi-shipper.
Okay, get this, I like Damon. I don't think I gave the impression I liked Damon with my Tumblr rant but I love the bastard. He's hilarious, cunning and just plain amusing. Nevertheless I cannot ship him with Elena after all the shit he has done but I get the appeal of the ship.-I mean, I wouldn't be a season fandom member if I didn't. It's just he goes back and forth with his development like there's no tomorrow. One moment he's pleased with his devil may care attitude towards life. The next he's drowning his sorrows and trying to be a better person. I just don't understand him and the hold Katherine has over him, and I want him to deal with his issues instead of being that snarky guy who can't admit that, yeah, killing Jeremy whether he saw the ring or not wasn't the proper response to Elena turning him down. Until then, I can't bother with that ship and, franky, I love Stefen/Elena. I wouldn't have gone on that tangent if I didn't felt this way. Speaking of Katherine though, can we talk about how much of a game changer she was in the season opener. I was afraid I won't enjoy her. Luckily I was incorrect. She was a breath of fresh air and I loved how she went around pretending to be Elena to, like, everyone and everyone supernatural noticed within the first few minutes excluding Damon. She hasn't been around for the last couple episodes so I can't exactly expand my thoughts about her but I am looking forward to her next appearance. I wonder how she'll 'top' turning Caroline ngl.
I don't care about the werewolves just yet so whatever. Jeremy continues to fade in and out of existence with me. I realized I loved the kid a couple weeks ago when Damon snapped his neck but still. His entire existence slays me. Look at his life. Look at his choices. And I know I haven't talked much about Elena in this entry but I feel like my love her shows without going on and on. I really appreciate how she continuously grows. I love how she is so secure with all her relationship whether they're her friendships or romantic entanglements or whatever she has with Damon. You can't force her into anything and that's markings of a wonderful lady character. Like I mentioned above, I was terrified this show would go the Twilight route yet they continuously prove me incorrect. She's the character Stephenie Meyer wish she could've written (or, at least, she should be). I haven't read the novels and I don't plan on it so I don't know if her characterizations are similar. If they aren't, damn, I am very much proud of the writers for making the acceptable, necessary changes because I LOVE television Elena sfm.
Bonus Section!
I apparently I cannot shut up so here's a couple bullet points regarding my other fandoms etc that are currently on hiatus or haven't started or whatever:
I don't know if I am one of the few people who've successfully grown tired of the HBIC label for women characters, along with fierce for that matter, since I rarely talk labels fandoms use but I have and I am kinda impressed. I didn't realize I harbored such views until a couple days ago when it sorta dawned on me-that's typical me, really. When it first got popular, I used it a few times to describe a couple of my favorites but, the more I think about it, the more I notice how it has been co-opted not to 'empower'-if that's ever was the true purpose-but to shame any and all ladies who aren't boxed into this narrow category and that depresses me. Majority of my favorite ladies don't fix into that box. I gravitate towards the Charlotte Charles, Martha Jones, Annie Cartwright of television programs and those characters are often hated and bashed for playing a supportive role in their respected canons, though Martha Jones is more of a touchy subject due to race implications and I have voiced those same views on occasion. Yeah, I do love the Sarah Connor, Kara Thrace type characters-I mean, damn, I partly got interested in Battlestar Galactica for Kara Thrace; she ended up one of my favorite characters and one day I'll write up my full thoughts on the series but today isn't that day-however, I cannot support a label often used to describe them that sets up a false, a very false, dichotomy.
Obviously I cannot stop people from using the term because it's their prerogative-that wasn't my intention with this slight rant-and I know it isn't the label's fault for people using it prop and tear down fictional characters and, well, RL celebrities. But IDK. It just no longer sits right with me and I had to blow off steam and bounce my thoughts around somewhere. It's better my personal journal than Tumblr where there's always a possibility that some random might reblog it taking my rant the wrong way. The same thing happened with my 'girl crush'/'bromance', Taylor Swift/Kanye West, and Mad Men rants and I don't feel like going through right now. SOMETIMES PROFESSIONAL RANTERS, LIKE MYSELF, NEED A BREAK FROM THE OUTSIDE WORLD and I am taking a break by isolating this on Livejournal for the time being. So, whatever, that's why I couldn't get fully behind the 'Why Olivia Dunham Is Amazing' list on Tumblr. Okay, I don't recall the original poster using the term 'HBIC' anywhere in it but I've learned to associate those types of traits with the label then my head just automatically connected to the two and started yelling 'NO, NO, NO, NO!' all Michael Scott-like (which was extraordinarily weird since I haven't seen the Office US since its first season).
I don't know. The sooner people start realizing lady characters can be strong in more than one way the better. Cordelia Chase, Martha Jones, Charlotte Charles, Olivia Dunham, Kara Thrace, etc are all strong and quality characters to look up to in their own way. There shouldn't be the need to box them up or shame them for lacking tracts they don't have or need.
90210
I am not embarrassed at all for enjoying 90210. I do believe more people would be less judgmental over it if it wasn't a remake, or sequel, to Beverly Hills and honestly, if you are still enjoying Gossip Girl with no shame, there's no reason why you should talk. It's rather improper to judge and all but, really, this show manages to retain some of its character development and its actors don't always give me second hand embarrassment or use a whisper to hide their English accents. With that said, the premiere last week wasn't want I expected in some parts-like, uh, the totally convenient death of No Drama Adrianna's Pop Star Ex-Boyfriend and Ivy having feelings for Miguel Lopez-Fitzgerald #3 her 'British' childhood friend while he carries on a causal fling with her mother-but overall it wasn't that bad. Nixon continues to not exist in my world which I find shameful as I liked him in the first season and I adore Tristan Wilds always for his performance in the Wire but the writers really screw the character over. It's kinda amazing how much I've grown to love Annie but I hate how the Jasper arc concluded off screen because you are telling me he burnt down Liam's boat in the finale then disappeared into thin air. How totally not fair! But, whatever, LIAM/ANNIE OTP. I am so down with this ship. Whatever on Middle Age Teddy. I just hope his upcoming gay storyline isn't second hand embarrassing inducing and doesn't end with him leaving the show permanently.
I was seriously stressing over the sexual harassment storyline they gave Naomi last season then wasn't too thrilled when it turned into a rape storyline as they are never too realistic on television programs-especially on television programs aimed at the teenage demographic and daytime soaps-but color me impressed at the everything: from the writing to AnnaLynne McCord pulling it off. I never realized it until now but she's seriously one of the strongest, if not the strongest, actress on the series because, damn, she really brought her A game. So I am now genuinely interested in seeing where they take this since Naomi confided in Silver over her rape only to have Silver believe she's lying due to skilled manipulation by Mr Creeper. Realistic; however, not amused. I just hope nothing else tragic happens to the poor girl. I understand the writers giving Naomi more the more intense storylines because McCord has proven herself capable of handling them in a less unintentionally hilarious matter than Shenae Grimes and the LOL I RAN OVER JASPER'S UNCLE AND I DIDN'T KNOW UNTIL AFTER I TRIED BREAKING UP WITH THE EMOTIONALLY ABUSIVE BASTARD FOR THE ENTIRE SECOND SEASON-I mean, Grimes wasn't bad but she wasn't good either-but it seems Naomi just cannot catch a break nowadays. Unlike No Drama Adrianna, she doesn't typically create her messes.
Boardwalk Empire
There are no words to describe my emotions towards this show and I've only seen the pilot.-I mean, I only went into the show knowing it was based non-fiction book, and the pilot was written by Terence Winter and directed by Martin Scorsese. What else did I need to know, really? With those names attached I figured they would hire the right actors for the roles then everything else would come together rather seamlessly and I was correct in that assumption (for once). Now, first of all, I must mention how excited I was with the Al Capone reveal. I was just chilling at my computer when he told Jimmy his name then I let out a legitimate fangirl scream. Here's a little known fact about myself: when I was younger, I absolutely stanned for Al Capone-well, as much as a preteen black girl could. My father and I use to bond over documentaries about the guy and his crew. My mother didn't find it proper but, nevertheless, that was how we spent our Sundays for good couple years. I just loved the Prohibition crime era dearly when I was younger; however, it wasn't something I talked a lot about with my friends because they didn't ~understand. So, yeah, that was a little excitable moment for me filled with many people in my household thinking I went mad.
I am passionately forever in love with the set design, my god. I want to lick it because that's the appropriate reaction. From what I understand, television critics have been mentioning the price tag of the pilot being, oh, around $50 million US and I want to die because I'll never see that much money in my life but you can see they did not waste a single penny. That boardwalk is the most beautiful thing I've ever witnessed on television (outside the Pushing Daisies sets). Boardwalk Empire seriously represents everything I love about HBO. When they go out, they go all out and don't make a fess and cut corners. You can tell the boardwalk could legitimately function and withstand high traffic and, now that it got a season two renewal, you know their investment paid off. It's just magnificent. There's nothing else to say about it because, if there is, I may end up on a hospital bed, typing myself to death over a television production set... though that would be an interesting way to die.
Naturally I had to go and fall in love with Jimmy. I don't know why but I love him dearly and, while I don't believe I should hope he succeeds at being a quality gangster (as that would be weird and probably improper), I will love every moment of his character development. I just get absolutely smitten with characters who are little pains in the asses and you can tell he loves his family and would do anything for them-excluding accepting a straight and narrow career with the temperance police-and, my god, his speech about coming back from the war killed me. I have thoughts about the nature of war and what it does to a person but it's different when you see it address on television. Jimmy doesn't fashion himself a hero like most. He believes himself a killer-a proper serial murder, basically-and, though we get war dramas like Band of Brothers, The Pacific and Generation Kill that manages tale a complete story, we often get stuck with what amounts to propaganda and just an image that these boys are happy and fulfilled by serving in the military. We often forget that most weren't signing up for 'glory' and recognition. They either wanted to go to school or be able to afford a place to live etc but I don't know what I am going with this so I will now shut up. I don't know. With that said, Jimmy's shaping up to be a real fantastic character and I'll worship the ground he walks on while the show explores the shades of gray of Prohibition and its crime.
Well, uh-I never want another sex scene with Steve Buscemi again in my hopefully long lifetime. It was extremely awful for me to watch. My eyes are very sensitive to that sort of activity and it was painful. I was not drunk enough-my sister made some mix drinks Monday night; sue me-to properly enjoy the hilarity of Nucky's girlfriend going 'WE WERE FUCKING' because I was focused on 'WHY GOD WHY AM I SEEING STEVE BUSCEMI NAKED RIGHT NOW?' I know I am being shallow by saying that but I am more worried about my sanity than protecting an image I may or may not have. Nucky is a very compelling character nevertheless. I did have a little 'Oh, you just got burned' moment when Jimmy told him he needed to stop being 'half a gangster'. That was cold so I obviously appreciated that. If you lot haven't learned, I am a horrible person. Also I hope the ladies of Boardwalk Empire amount to more than being token love interests. I already have a show were I am extremely displeased with its treatment of woman characters-I love you, Sherlock, but no-so I'm not interested in adding another. I have good hope though. I did like the women on Sopranos so I hope Winter is capable of expanding their roles and/or adding some more awesome women to the Boardwalk lineup.
If not, whatever, I'll probably be smitten with Margaret anyway. Truth be told, I think I already am.
Fringe
I am prone to hyperbole. We all know this, correct? Well, if you aren't, I am going to introduce you to my prowess: my best life decision was getting into Fringe. I originally had it on my schedule when it first premiered two years ago but I never got around to watching it for reasons I've yet understand. This summer, however, I made sure I added it on my schedule so, after watching the Vampire Diaries, I picked it up. I never fell in love with a cast quicker than with this show. They are brilliant to me: Peter, Walter, Olivia, Astrid, Broyles, Charlie etc. They are all brilliant. I don't know what exactly draws me into the show. I've always been a fan of science fiction but there's something different about the show. Though it strays into Hollywood science quite often, it is so rooted in reality that it's almost possible these things can happen in over here and the relationships are quite the draw themselves. Peter and Walter always toe the line of adorable and heartbreaking and that's partially due to the skillful acting from Pacey Joshua Jackson and John Noble. I recall crying the first time I watched 2.19 The Man from the Other Side when Peter confronted Walter about his origins then again during 2.21 Northwest Passage when Walter had his supermarket breakdown. I recall crying the first time I watched 2.19 The Man from the Other Side when Peter confronted Walter about his origins then again during 2.21 Northwest Passage when Walter had his supermarket breakdown. Don't get me started on Olivia Dunham. Her haters often say she's an emotional drone and Anna Torv cannot act but, please, I was attracted to her character from the very beginning.-I mean, how can you describe Olivia as emotionless? She heavily protects herself from people, yes, and she slightly opens up throughout the series, yes, but she's always been emotional to me. You see Olivia is so perfect in my eyes and a reason why I could never settle with preferred type of lady character. If I had a small narrow view on what constitute as quality character, I would probably be like the poor souls who hate on her. It shouldn't be a problem that you can't read her like an open book. It should be understandable once you get to know her character. The people who hate Olivia are lost while I am in love. But...
OLIVIA! ;---;
Fuck you, Walternate. This now doubles as a John Noble needs an Emmy™ blog. It's amazing how he's able to act out two separate but similar characters and, god, he will-he should-get his dues eventually. Let's get back to the subject at hand. My heart absolutely breaks for Olivia right now. I couldn't imagine going through that sort of hell and fucked up mind games. It took an episode for her to gain Alt!Olivia's memories and now she has them and I yelling at my television set 'no, Olivia, please don't forget about Peter, your one true love' then we got to the last five minutes and Alt!Olivia is totally macking with Peter. I'll probably get into Alt!Olivia and Peter by the end of episode two since I am, first and foremost, a multi-shipper and, secondly, highly predictable; however, I am going to be difficult today and be all like GURL IF YOU DON'T BACK OFF OF OLIVIA'S MAN! I don't know, man. I partially hope this arc is over rather quickly and not just for ship reasons. Olivia belongs over here, not over there and I love the Walter + Peter + Olivia (+ Astrid) dynamic way too much. I am not afraid the writers might ruin it with Alt!Olivia-I actually like Alt!Olivia-but they've been good with their past storylines that I don't want to see them drag this one out longer than they should. That wouldn't be fair.
Also, god, the scene where Olivia meets up with her mother was just so heartbreaking. You can tell she wanted to hold one to her world so dearly but BOOM! the mother card gets played.-I mean, damn, I still want Olivia over here but I find myself stuck between a rock and a hard place over Olivia's mother. When she finally 'accepted' Alt!Olivia's memories, you could just tell how happy she was having her mother in her life again and I don't want her to lose that again. But, seriously though, how hasn't Walter and Peter caught on re: Alt!Olivia. SHE WAS TOTALLY HATING ON HIS SHOES AND OREOS IN THE LAST SCENE. I love her (and I don't know why honestly) but her Olivia impression needs some serious work. These foolish boys not seeing the obvious are kinda hilariously pathetic. I'll cut them some slack nevertheless.
Anna Torv needs an Emmy now. This also doubles as an Anna Torv needs an Emmy™ blog.
Mad Men
I haven't talked Mad Men over here in an awfully long time, though I haven't gotten a clue why. I often start writing these TL;DR entries about the latest episode in my head but they never seem to make their way online-well, online on my livejournal. I have a few discussions over AIM with Ashley and Amara every now and then. (If you notice me online, you are welcome to hit me up btw. My contact information is listed on Tumblr and the profile.) What is there to say about Mad Men other than just about everything? You can list me as well under 'Well I didn't exactly care for Sunday's episode but it was still stronger than most television currently on air.' I don't know... Ida Blankenship's death was rather hilarious; however, I don't think it rather lived up to the British dude losing his foot last season in 'Guy Walks into an Advertising Agency'. That was just classic Mad Men hilarity ensuing. And, my god, did Weiner really have to make the first black man with a speaking role this season a mugger? I've noticed this season has been whiter than the last three which I didn't even think possible since we only had Carla, the elevator attendant and janitors yet LOL they managed then gave the robbery scene. I know I should have hope about the 3LW reject Naturi Naughton being cast as a character later this season but I've given up on having a substantial black role given to, well, anyone on this program. It's never been a matter of them not being capable of doing it. It's always been a matter of them not wanting to do it and I am willing to argue if you dare to disagree. You lot already know my feelings.
The last two weeks' episodes, however, were beautiful stunning perfect; I don't know where to begin. I admit I found Don's narration in 'The Summer Man' heavy-handed and obvious the series like everyone else but I was surprised it worked for the period piece. It was like a self-contained novel around his self-improvement hour. I was just rather surprised that he is making an honest effect to change his bad habits (LOL HIS DRINKING THO) and it wasn't preclude to some hopeless downward spiral.-I mean, I often go week after week from hating the man passionately to appreciating his business expertise to wishing I could murder if in the most painful manner possible but, suddenly, I do want to see him improve himself and I do believe that's possible with Don Draper. I never thought he was irredeemable. I just thought he was rather self-destructing and not worthy of my pity like majority of Mad Men's male characters. Pete's the only lead male character where my thoughts and adoration never changed... then he had to go rape the au pair and I had some serious self-reflection on why I enjoyed his character show much. Enough about Pete since he hadn't had much to do the last couple weeks even though Ken Cosgrove Accounts is back in the picture. My OTP is together again yet nothing joyous has come out of it lately. I CAN'T GO AROUND SEEING 'REUNITED AND IT FEELS SO GOOD' WHEN NOTHING'S HAPPENING. It would so passé.
I am forever torn over the Peggy and Joan disagreement. You would think I would've made up my mind over it after reading several arguments for and against another but I do see both sides. I don't know. Joan and Peggy comes from two different lines of thinking: one is more progressive and one is definitely not-at least, not right now-but I hope this doesn't mean Joan won't be able to keep up with the ever-moving times. She's obviously having troubles adapting unlike Peggy (and, as an extension, Pete) but I don't know. I don't know. I always want Peggy and her to be BFFs as I still believe they could learn from each other. However, right now, Joan's character is shaping up to be someone who time forgot and a relic of the past while Peggy's really shaping to be the future and so like the 1960s second wave feminists (complete with their dismissal and/or ignorance over why the Civil Rights movement is necessary [to which I say 'LOL WHITE PEOPLE']). Why can't everyone just form a circle, hold hands and sing their favorite negro spiritual? That's what I would do in this situation. Spoiler alert: I lied right there. I lie a lot for the sake of awkward humor.
re: 'The Suitcase'. I haven't jumped on the Don/Peggy bandwagon yet and I do hope Weiner explores a more Anna-Don type relationship before the eventual hook up. Yeah I am done resisting. I admit defeat. You will never see this again. Don and Peggy will end up together like their real life counterpoints whether I like it or not... It was a beautiful, touching episode nonetheless. That's what I mean and I should stress that. I kinda cried. Here's my obligatory needs more Pete comment though. Vincent Kartheiser won't get his ever-so needed Emmy nomination if he has little to work with.
Nikita
It has potential, I guess? No, really, I haven't got much to say about this show because, right now, it is kinda a chore to watch and it didn't help I wasn't fully interested in the show to begin with.-I mean, I have admitted to solely watching this show for Maggie Q. I don't particularly care for the actress-she's all right-but I am like YAY AN ASIAN FEMALE LEADING IN AN AMERICAN TELEVISION PROGRAM and I want to see it successful for CW standards. However, I have yet developed any interest in any characters.-I mean, LOL SHANE WEST majorly. I've never been a fan of the sassy black girl stereotype so whenever she's onscreen I am thinking 'CW, please put me out of this misery'. And who's the white girl anyway? Your existence is bothering me. Please focus more on Nikita being awesome. Anyway, the writing is currently extremely tragic in a 'tell, don't show' way. I just can't deal half the time but I go for a standard five episodes before I drop a program out of disinterest and it wouldn't be fair if I make an exception for this program. I honestly wish Nikita improves more than anything because I do want to like this show. I really do but its writing and Shane West are ruining it for me. It's mostly Shane West though. I can deal with sub-par writing, okay. I watched Covert Affairs, okay. It's not me. It's you, Shane West. You suck the fun out of everything. You are a fun vampire. I seriously hope you know this. If not, someone needs to inform then blacklist you from Hollywood.
Rubicon
It's, uh-how many of you lot are actually enjoying this program? I watched a couple episodes with Kendra, my 'I-Didn't-Know-You-Existed-Until-Now' cousin, and she didn't particularly like it, citing she found it too 'slow' and the characters lacked any interested to continue on. I also recall Jillian mentioning she was interested in the program in August; however, I don't talk television with my friends nowadays unless I am judging them over loving Supernatural or little bits of Doctor Who so I legitimately don't know her thoughts and opinion for once. Then I have Britt and having Livejournal friends with the same interests are always nice but still... I don't know. That's only three people I know who've seen more than one episode: one didn't like it; the other I am completely lost on; and LOL Britt. (Sorry, darling, I may sound like I am dismissing you but I deeply appreciate your existence and your thoughts on anything and everything and ILU; that's more than I typically say about most people.) Well, I know I like it so, if that means I am talking to an echo chamber, so be it.
Now, pondering who watches Rubicon aside, I fancy the series largely as a visual novel and, now that we got pages and pages of exposition out of the way, the plot is unraveling rather quickly-or rather, I should say, quicker than the initial speed-and my interests in the characters (outside Will's Moments of Manpain™) continue to increase exponentially which is definitely a good thing. I find myself rather smitten with Maggie and Tanya though that shouldn't come at a complete surprise since I have a natural bias towards female characters. I can't say I was pleased with Kale's actions regarding having Maggie spy on Will for the first few episodes then awkwardly removing her from the position once he realized her growing feeling towards Will but that comes from me not fully understanding his motives.-Like, seriously, are or aren't we suppose to trust him. I do appreciate the program's inability to spell it out for us but he's just so CLICHE MYSTERIOUS at times that I am like 'Oh lord, he said something vague; let's start the musical score!' and it happens.
I, honest to god, sound like I harbor a serious disliking towards the show whenever I talk about it but that's not the case. It's just I feel this show benefits from marathon watching than a week by week basis as I found myself understanding a bit more when I watched the Labor Day marathon a couple weeks back. It's also surprising we only have four more episodes in this season and there hasn't been news about its renewal. I do hope it gets a second season because I think it would move quicker than this and more people will find themselves enjoying it. Or maybe everyone else is right and Rubicon will just not 'happen'. It's rather too early to tell. Not everything is an overnight success; everyone's quick these days to forget that. But, right now, I am content that Will and Katherine will finally have some legitimate conversations after weeks and weeks of working the same possible conspiracy from different sides. I think they have shared the same screen one other time before but obviously nothing came about. I assume it just wasn't the right time for either character. That's always the case with these stories.
Undercovers
I loved it. That shouldn't come as a surprise if you follow me on Tumblr and/or saw the many posts I created about the show on ONTD for the past couple months but I loved it and those reviewers who were hating can just go straight to hell because I don't know what show they were watching. I admit the pilot had its cheesy moments but Gugu and Boris made such a cute believable couple. Mekia Cox was a fantastic recast even though it plays with the common colorism issues within the black community and Hollywood casting. It's something I can easily get over because she made a cute Lizzy to Gugu's Samantha so I can't wait to see how Sam and Steven return to the spy game affects their relationship.-I mean, it shouldn't be walk in the park like the pilot initially presented it. Eventually Lizzy will be like 'Uh, I do have a life here so you two can't unexpectedly disappear every couple weeks to wherever you two go'. Oh god, I am already plotting future episodes in my head. That's how much I enjoyed it. And I cannot believe I loved Bill, the technical support guy. I am still upset over the review I read calling Ben Schwartz the breakout star of the show as that such a typically response from reviewers. Of course, they are going to fall in love with the character most like them; how dull. But, god, his little ass-kissing behind is so adorable and I can't wait to see more of him. I kinda hope Steven Bloom and him grow to have a totally awesome friendship because, well, I know I'll probably get tired the hero worship.
OH, OH, OH-may I mention how pleased I was to have J.J. Abrams back in the director's seat? I know this will sound awfully cliche of me but I've always loved his direction and he did not disappoint. We got obscured faces, long shots, and his token lens flare moment made an appearance eighteen minutes into the program. As I mentioned on Tumblr a couple days ago, I was seriously gonna flip if we did not get one lens flare out of the man. We've all seen Star Trek or Lost or Fringe or Alias. We know that his motif. It seriously puts me at ease since, outside my online circle, no one understands my love for that technique. There's nothing like a well placed lens flare. They often make a beautiful scene unforgettable if done correct and J.J. Abrams always succeeds. But I don't know. I loved it. I don't know what else I should say about it.-I mean, they made a believable couple and show how the characters slowly rediscovered the passion they had for another. I was just drawn in from the first scene. I do hope we get to see some of the clients they service truth be told. If Abrams and co are trying for a light dramedy, there has to be some hilarious story to tell there to balance out their intense missions. I don't know. I am not a writer.
You lot don't understand how badly I needed this show in my life. I read an interview with Boris and Gugu from MSNBC and he mentioned how he didn't want to be a trailblazer (or rather: the 'affirmative action guy') and I understand why he had his reservations about the program. Television has been getting whiter and whiter over the past few years. We've just regressed so much since the new millennium dawn and it's so discouraging as a POC seeing this show being marked as a 'revolution'. It shouldn't be a 'revolution'. It should be common thing to see. We should be seeing Blacks, Asians, Hispanics, Natives etc in leading roles on television and films, not playing support to the hot white guy or girl. It gets old seeing minorities getting shoehorned into one role. Then, if we make it into a quality show, the actors or program or show doesn't get the praise it deserves.-I mean, critics often talk about how The Wire was one of the best television programs to air ever and it was completely groundbreaking and showed Baltimore in a realistic light but it never won a single major award. It only got nominated for an 'Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series' Emmy twice and that's about it other than a few NAACP awards. Come on. We couldn't get a few much deserved acting nominations? This is something I'll honestly never get over. I am derailing my own post though. I am pleased he decided to take the role because I can't picture anyone else in it. I know shade gets thrown at him due to his acting skills but I thought he made a great fit and, damn, he's so easy on the eyes. People have accepted less from uglier other actors. Yeah, I know that was mean but we are all thinking it. Don't you dare lie. I also have to give praise to Gugu's American accent. I don't know what's up but, when Brits do American accents on British television, they are absolutely dreadful and embarrassing yet we manage to import British actors who can do fantastic American accents for American programs. (You see, I am clearly ignoring the existence of the Rex Is Not Your Lawyer clip. That was awfuly tragic. My god, David Tennant, when did you become someone I laughed at?) I am proud of her.
Just this show. Even though it didn't do so well with the reviews, many people said it had potential and scored a six share with the Nielsen ratings. I normally wouldn't consider it a success but it's (a) on NBC where television goes to die and (b) it stars black people so I didn't expect anything higher and (c) did I mention it's on NBC the network that regularly places forth. But, yeah, if a six share can keep Chuck around for four seasons, I have high hope for Undercovers getting at least a back nine.-I mean, really, it was a delight. That only means I highly advise everyone to check it out.
The Vampire Dairies
Where do I even begin? When I started watching Vampire Diaries the beginning on the summer, I never fathom falling hard. It's a supernatural show on the CW and, not only that, it was focused on a gentlemen vampire/lady human romance and history has proven that this trope doesn't exactly have the brightest track record. Plus, it was green-lighted partly due to the book and film success of the Twilight series. You would be a septic too. Luckily I was proven wrong because I was hooked by the second half of the first season and it increasingly because one of the best shows on currently television. I've never seen a teen program so well paced as the Vampire Diaries. Look, I loved Buffy the Vampire Slayer too but you have to admit there were moments where everything felt a little rushed. I've yet felt that way with Vampire Diaries. Every episode has importance. No time has been wasted. I said above that I fancied Rubicon as a visual novel; well, I am also applying that sentiment with the Vampire Diaries because it just continues to grow and grow so fluidly. It's like art. I know I am committing blasphemy by calling Vampire Diaries art but, god, that's like the only word I can call it right now. I just love almost-I wouldn't be me if I didn't have a couple complaints but we'll get to that later-everything about it.
Well, since I am predictable, I already thoroughly ranted about the treatment Bonnie and Elena-especially Bonnie-gets from the Vampire Diaries fandom on Tumblr so I won't rehash everything I said there here. I don't think it needs to be said since I only friend the best and you lot proven time and time again that, that statement is way too true. It's just-I don't know. I love all the lady characters in this program because they all bring something different to the table and all make fantastic friends-well, okay, only Bonnie, Elena, and Caroline since they weren't exactly friends with April, Anna etc-and you can tell they deeply care for one another and aren't in serious competition. That's sadly so rare for television friendships. There's like this unwritten rule that if there are more than two women on the show, whether or not they are close best friends, they will find themselves in direct competition with each other and typically over a guy. That doesn't happen on Vampire Diaries. Whenever Bonnie, Elena or Caroline had a conflict with another, they talked it out rather maturely. HOW CAN YOU NOT LOVE THIS SHOW?! Even though TVD has a legitimate problem with killing off the lady supernaturals (and that's why I am so worried for Caroline's fate in the next few episodes-please don't Nikki her off) compared the men, this is still one of the most feminist shows currently airing. These characters run the show. These characters have their strengths and their weakness. They are equals within their romantic entanglements.-I mean, come on, they could've easily gone the Twilight route with Elena and Stefan but they didn't. They are fundamentally the anti-Edward/Bella. Where Edward mostly made all Bella's decisions for her, Stefan and Elena discuss everything. Then, if Stefan does something shady about her life decisions without consulting her, she basically goes 'Fuck you, I do want I want.' They are complete and true equals in a relationship where there's typically icky power dynamics at play. With that tangent said, the ladies of TVD are the most well-rounded on the show and I adore it. So it's probably best I move on to a different subject like the show's plot and other vampire goodness?!
I am still honestly shaking and crying over Katherine turning Caroline because, like I said before, this show doesn't have a good track record with keeping female supernaturals around withstanding Bonnie and, probably, Katherine and it's obvious they never knew what to do with her character. I don't know. I was a huge fan of human Caroline. I liked how passionate she was with her school functions and Founders' Day activities. I liked how Matt and she was our window to normalcy though she was best friends with two people so knee deep in vampire/magical business. However, vampire Caroline brings something new between Matt and her friends.-I mean, the look Bonnie had on her face when she realized Caroline was newly turned was so heartbreaking and I hope their friendship will be okay in the long term because (a) Bonnie still hasn't properly dealt with her grandmother's death and the very existence of vampires and helping them was what lead to it and (b) Caroline is stuck learning how to function in this society without raising awareness of her vampire success, especially since her mother is, like, Vamp Hunter Extraordinaire with other Mystic Falls residents. Luckily Stefan managed to convince Bonnie to make Caroline a little magic ring to get around the whole 'Well, gee, I wonder why my daughter refuses to go into the light' deal. BUT, YES, LET'S TALK ABOUT BONNIE AND CAROLINE AGAIN. I understand why Bonnie has her issues with vampires but, urgh, those two are breaking my heart. I want them to be okay again and I know Caroline has the heart to be ... like Stefan, I guess. I believe in her. I believe in her. Please don't Nikki her show. Please don't Nikki her and don't break Matt and her up. They are too cute. I can't see her with anyone else. Let us ignore I also ship her with Stefan thanks to that scene in 2.02. However, I ship everyone with Stefan truth be told. I am trying to figure out when Stefan became my shippable person in the show but he has and I totally support Stefan/Elena, Stefan/Caroline, Stefan/Bonnie. I am so glad I am a multi-shipper.
Okay, get this, I like Damon. I don't think I gave the impression I liked Damon with my Tumblr rant but I love the bastard. He's hilarious, cunning and just plain amusing. Nevertheless I cannot ship him with Elena after all the shit he has done but I get the appeal of the ship.-I mean, I wouldn't be a season fandom member if I didn't. It's just he goes back and forth with his development like there's no tomorrow. One moment he's pleased with his devil may care attitude towards life. The next he's drowning his sorrows and trying to be a better person. I just don't understand him and the hold Katherine has over him, and I want him to deal with his issues instead of being that snarky guy who can't admit that, yeah, killing Jeremy whether he saw the ring or not wasn't the proper response to Elena turning him down. Until then, I can't bother with that ship and, franky, I love Stefen/Elena. I wouldn't have gone on that tangent if I didn't felt this way. Speaking of Katherine though, can we talk about how much of a game changer she was in the season opener. I was afraid I won't enjoy her. Luckily I was incorrect. She was a breath of fresh air and I loved how she went around pretending to be Elena to, like, everyone and everyone supernatural noticed within the first few minutes excluding Damon. She hasn't been around for the last couple episodes so I can't exactly expand my thoughts about her but I am looking forward to her next appearance. I wonder how she'll 'top' turning Caroline ngl.
I don't care about the werewolves just yet so whatever. Jeremy continues to fade in and out of existence with me. I realized I loved the kid a couple weeks ago when Damon snapped his neck but still. His entire existence slays me. Look at his life. Look at his choices. And I know I haven't talked much about Elena in this entry but I feel like my love her shows without going on and on. I really appreciate how she continuously grows. I love how she is so secure with all her relationship whether they're her friendships or romantic entanglements or whatever she has with Damon. You can't force her into anything and that's markings of a wonderful lady character. Like I mentioned above, I was terrified this show would go the Twilight route yet they continuously prove me incorrect. She's the character Stephenie Meyer wish she could've written (or, at least, she should be). I haven't read the novels and I don't plan on it so I don't know if her characterizations are similar. If they aren't, damn, I am very much proud of the writers for making the acceptable, necessary changes because I LOVE television Elena sfm.
Bonus Section!
I apparently I cannot shut up so here's a couple bullet points regarding my other fandoms etc that are currently on hiatus or haven't started or whatever:
- I am completely embarrassed for SyFy right now. I have had Caprica on Hulu alert for the past few months and, yesterday, they uploaded this five minute recap entitled 'Re-Caprica' because, like, you get it. Right? It's narrated by this women who may or may not be a teenager but it's so try-hard and ridiculous that I am embarrassed no matter how old the person was. I get SyFy wanted to target the female demographic with this program but, damn, we aren't idiots. You can save that condescending bullshit for someone who cares. With that said, I am excited we are getting new episodes in less than two weeks. I am so glad they reworked their schedule to allow the earlier date. It was insane they thought a January 2011 return was a brilliant idea.
- You don't know how completely thankful I am having Law and Order UK in my life. I terribly miss Law and Order Proper and I still find it unsuitable NBC cancelled the program without giving it a proper good so having LOUK is, like, filling this hole in my heart. I mentioned it to my mother-she obviously had no idea it existed-and she said me why it was so necessary that I had the opportunity of seeing old Law and Order stories done from an English prospective. I basically told her (a) shut up, (b) Bambi and Freema are beautiful people who should always be on television, and (c) it's legitimately interesting seeing the spin the writers give to the stories. Culture changes everything. Why wouldn't I be interested? I am thinking about purchasing the TV on DVD release from Target, truth be told, but that may be too nerdy.
- 30 Rock! Community! Inbetweeners! Truthfully I haven't watched any yet though they are downloaded on my mother's laptop. I doubt I'll get around to watching them until I finish reinstalling everything onto my desktop. (God, having to do a full system restore is a pain in the ass.) It depresses me but, I've watched so much television this past week; I need this break. I don't even know how and when my schedule got so full. Also I feel the universe is telling me I should watch Haven. Alas, again, I think I have enough programming on my schedule so I doubt it'll happen anytime soon. Such is life.
- Obligatory I Miss Doctor Who and Sherlock Comment™. Rewatching the episodes and looking around for fanfic just isn't enough right now. Christmas 2010, come. Spring 2011, come. Autumn 2011, come. I am getting impatient even though I have my American telly to keep me amused.
I don't know if I am one of the few people who've successfully grown tired of the HBIC label for women characters, along with fierce for that matter, since I rarely talk labels fandoms use but I have and I am kinda impressed. I didn't realize I harbored such views until a couple days ago when it sorta dawned on me-that's typical me, really. When it first got popular, I used it a few times to describe a couple of my favorites but, the more I think about it, the more I notice how it has been co-opted not to 'empower'-if that's ever was the true purpose-but to shame any and all ladies who aren't boxed into this narrow category and that depresses me. Majority of my favorite ladies don't fix into that box. I gravitate towards the Charlotte Charles, Martha Jones, Annie Cartwright of television programs and those characters are often hated and bashed for playing a supportive role in their respected canons, though Martha Jones is more of a touchy subject due to race implications and I have voiced those same views on occasion. Yeah, I do love the Sarah Connor, Kara Thrace type characters-I mean, damn, I partly got interested in Battlestar Galactica for Kara Thrace; she ended up one of my favorite characters and one day I'll write up my full thoughts on the series but today isn't that day-however, I cannot support a label often used to describe them that sets up a false, a very false, dichotomy.
Obviously I cannot stop people from using the term because it's their prerogative-that wasn't my intention with this slight rant-and I know it isn't the label's fault for people using it prop and tear down fictional characters and, well, RL celebrities. But IDK. It just no longer sits right with me and I had to blow off steam and bounce my thoughts around somewhere. It's better my personal journal than Tumblr where there's always a possibility that some random might reblog it taking my rant the wrong way. The same thing happened with my 'girl crush'/'bromance', Taylor Swift/Kanye West, and Mad Men rants and I don't feel like going through right now. SOMETIMES PROFESSIONAL RANTERS, LIKE MYSELF, NEED A BREAK FROM THE OUTSIDE WORLD and I am taking a break by isolating this on Livejournal for the time being. So, whatever, that's why I couldn't get fully behind the 'Why Olivia Dunham Is Amazing' list on Tumblr. Okay, I don't recall the original poster using the term 'HBIC' anywhere in it but I've learned to associate those types of traits with the label then my head just automatically connected to the two and started yelling 'NO, NO, NO, NO!' all Michael Scott-like (which was extraordinarily weird since I haven't seen the Office US since its first season).
I don't know. The sooner people start realizing lady characters can be strong in more than one way the better. Cordelia Chase, Martha Jones, Charlotte Charles, Olivia Dunham, Kara Thrace, etc are all strong and quality characters to look up to in their own way. There shouldn't be the need to box them up or shame them for lacking tracts they don't have or need.