Twin Peaks: The Return Series Finale Review (Major Spoilers)
Also finally got around to seeing The Adventures Of Batman And Robin: The Lost Episode so I'm reviewing that. Also reviews for the latest episodes of Teen Titans Go!, DC Super Hero Girls, the last two episodes of the season of Preacher, the latest episodes of The Powerpuff Girls, Ben 10, Marvel's Spider-Man, Transformers: Robots In Disguise: Combiner Force, and Power Rangers: Ninja Steel, the series premiere of The Orville, and the last two episodes of the season of American Dad!.
Upcoming reviews include Doctor Who: Series 9, Class: Series 1, The X-Files: Season 10, Avengers: Age Of Ultron (Blu-Ray), Ant-Man (Blu-Ray), Captain America: Civil War (Blu-Ray), Doctor Strange (Blu-Ray), Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 (Blu-Ray), Jessica Jones: Season 1, Daredevil: Season 2, Marvel's Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D.: Season 2, Marvel's Agent Carter: Season 1, The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (Blu-Ray), X-Men: Days Of Future Past: The Rogue Cut, Deadpool, X-Men: Apocalypse (Blu-Ray), Logan, The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes! Season 1, The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes! Season 2, Zootopia, Moana (Blu-Ray), Tangled: Before Ever After (DVD), Inside Out (Blu-Ray), The Good Dinosaur (Blu-Ray), Finding Dory (Blu-Ray), Once Upon A Time: Season 5, The BFG, Tomorrowland, Star Wars: The Force Awakens (Blu-Ray), Star Wars Rebels: Season 2, Lego Star Wars: Droid Tales, Lego Star Wars: The Freemaker Adventures: Season One, Jim Henson's Turkey Hollow (DVD), Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them (Blu-Ray), Teen Titans Go!: Get In Pig Out, DC Super Hero Girls: Intergalactic Games, LEGO DC Super Hero Girls: Brain Drain, The LEGO Batman Movie, Justice League Dark, Teen Titans: The Judas Contract, Batman And Harley Quinn, Suicide Squad (Blu-Ray), Wonder Woman (Blu-Ray), The Flash: Season 2, The Flash: Season 3, Arrow: Season 4, Arrow: Season 5, DC's Legends Of Tomorrow: Season 1, DC's Legends Of Tomorrow: Season 2, Supergirl: Season 1, Supergirl: Season 2 Vixen: The Movie, Gotham: Season 2, Gotham: Season 3, iZombie: Season 1, iZombie: Season 2, iZombie: Season 3, Lucifer: Season 1, Lucifer: Season 2, Samurai Jack: Season 5, Be Cool Scooby Doo!: Spooky Kooky Fun!, Wabbit: A Looney Tunes Prod.: Hare-Raising Tales, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey: Extended Edition, The Hobbit: The Desolation Of Smaug: Extended Edition, The Hobbit: The Battle Of The Five Armies: Extended Edition, Airplane! / Airplane II: The Sequel: Double Feature, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Beyond The Known Universe, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Earth's Last Stand, Tales Of The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Super Shredder, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Half-Shell Heroes: Blast To The Past, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out Of The Shadows, Power Rangers (2017), Power Rangers: Zeo: Volume 2, Turbo: A Power Rangers Movie, Power Rangers Turbo: Volume 1, Power Rangers: Turbo: Volume 2, Power Rangers In Space Volume 1, Power Rangers In Space: Volume 2, Power Rangers Samurai: The Complete Season, Power Rangers: Megaforce: The Complete Season, Power Rangers: Super Megaforce: The Complete Season, Transformers: Robots In Disguise: Season 1, Heroes Reborn: The Complete Series, Avatar: The Last Airbender: Book 1: Water, Avatar: The Last Airbender: Book 2: Earth, Avatar: The Last Airbender: Book 3: Fire, The Legend Of Korra: The Complete Series, Haven: Season 5 - Vol. 1, Haven: The Final Season, Under The Dome: Season 3, Sleepy Hollow: Season 2, Sleepy Hollow: Season 3, Brooklyn Nine-Nine: Season 2, Brooklyn Nine-Nine: Season 3, The Jurassic Park Trilogy, Jurassic World, Back To The Future: The Complete Animated Series, Shaun The Sheep Movie (Blu-Ray), Shaun The Sheep: The Farmer's Llamas, 12 Monkeys: Season 1, 12 Monkeys: Season 2, Grimm: Season 4, Grimm: Season 5, Grimm: Season 6, The Wonder Years: Season 4, The Wonder Years: Season 5, The Wonder Years: Season 6, The Peanuts Movie, Peanuts By Schulz: Snoopy Tales, Peanuts By Schulz: Go Team Go!, Bob's Burgers: Season 5, Ghostbusters: Answer The Call, Community: Season 6, Hannibal: Season 3, Danger Mouse: The Complete Series, Prison Break: Season 5, Game Of Thrones: Season 5, and Game of Thrones: Season 6.
Twin Peaks "The Return: Part 17"
Time travel? Did Coop actually prevent Laura Palmer's murder? Is Pete fishing in an alternate timeline? So many questions.
I love that they used CGI to convincingly recreate Frank Silva as BOB. That was a pretty cool climax. Everyone was there.
I honestly don't have too much to say about this part, other to say that I mostly liked it. I wasn't thrilled with the ending, but the rest of the episode was great. ****.
Twin Peaks "The Return: Part 18"
Underwhelming and disappointing, especially since it turns out last week was the last we've seen of Audrey Horne. I was expecting a mindblowing story point with her and they didn't even bother.
I'll say one thing: Laura Dern still looks great naked. If that's not a body double, bravo.
I imagine Cooper seeing her note where she calls him Richard and herself Linda sort of hints to me about what happens to the people in Lynch films after the second person wakes up in an entirely new identity. This is what happens once Betty and Rita are gone to everybody else in the universe. I believe this scene is done to show us a person on the other side of that for once.
Similarly, the ending, and the hint that this is NOT 2017, and either takes place later or sooner, is another thing to hint that the Universe was woken up to a new identity, with Coop being the only one aware things changed. To be blunt, I hate this idea. But to be blunter than that, it's still a MUCH better ending than what we were stuck with for 25 years. This is not the ending I would have liked, or that I hoped for. But it is far better than having Coop stuck in the Black Lodge forever.
Besides, not everything in the Universe seems to have reset, at least not all at once. Diane appears to be who she is in Glastonbury Grove, at least until she and Coop boink. And Coop is still FBI. And Janey-E and Dougie are clearly reunited. Whatever this potential new universe is, it's not so bad.
I was disappointed, but it's not like this is the first time. The last time I was outright heartbroken. I'll take disappointed any day of the week. **1/2.
The Adventures Of Batman And Robin "The Lost Episode"
Finally saw this. These lost 16 minute wrap-around segments to the Sega CD videogame of the same name as the TV show sort of form a complete story, albeit one that seems a bit choppy without the videogame levels to tie things together. In the cartoon segments, Clayface poses as Rupert Thorne and hires Poison Ivy, Riddler, Harley Quinn, and Joker to kidnap Robin and take out Batman. The episode, as it were, is slightly more violent than the G rated cartoon, but it's a PG level violence at best (similar to Batman: Mask of the Phantasm).
How does it fit into my DCAU timeline?
Not well. But I can place it before Mudslide, even though this is supposed to be the The Adventures Of Batman and Robin era of the show. Why before and not after? Clayface meets a similar end in The Lost Episode, but as far as I can tell, Batman and Robin weren't fully clear on his fate here, when Batman saw him apparently die in Mudslide. That makes Clayface's story of reforming the way he did in TNBA's Growing Pains make more sense if Batman already knows he's been out of commission for awhile. What Batman DOESN'T know is that Clayface has also been out of Commission once before this.
I placed it after "What Is Reality?", even though Riddler was made catatonic in that episode, because he's already inexplicably fine before "Riddler's Reform" anyways, and because it is stated "What Is Reality?" was the first time Riddler saw Batman and Robin since his debut in "If You're So Smart, Why Aren't You Rich?"
We have never seen the BTAS era Riddler do so well in a fight against Batman as he does in this episode, but it is true the TNBA version seemed to have gained some acrobatic skills.
Is Tress MacNeill voicing Poison Ivy instead of Diane Pershing? It sounds that way to me. And I have to say if she is, she's dead on. Batman And Harley Quinn probably should have hired her instead of Paget Brewster.
Am I the only one who feels weird to see Batman using that giant machine gun? I think the writers of the videogame goofed there.
I think this needs a DVD release in the worst way. ****.
Teen Titans Go! "Lication"
Much like their pyramid scheme episode, this is TTG looking at an adult problem in a simplified way, to explain to kids what is wrong with it. The trouble here is that unlike pyramid schemes, the Shareconomy may not actually be sinister. It DOES make a certain kind of financial sense, and it's probably better for the environment too. That being said, the Titans are right to be skeptical for the reasons they are. Cynicism about stuff like this is something that is good to ingrain into kids early on. It's a money making App, and it's totally free? What is the angle there? Who actually benefits? And won't this put legit businesses out of work?
Ultimately, I do not think that a Shareconomy will destroy our way of life, but Wal-Mart sounded like an okay idea on paper too. The episode is right to get kids to be skeptical about things that seem too good to be true.
For the record, Raven is right. Robin is gross. Totally. Yuck. ****.
Teen Titans Go! "Labor Day"
Cyborg being a lime scab bums me out for some reason.
I laughed when Cyborg ate logs and pooped out the umbrella arm. His ears turning into water sprinkles was equally fun.
Love Raven making fun of what an ugly shirt Robin wears.
Love the Dig Dug homage.
I love Beast Boy's tongue turning into Robin's arm and slapping away the chip.
Beast Boy is cute as an oil gusher, and I loved the cartoon face on the comet as it rushed towards Earth.
I laughed at the Titans turning into strips of bacon.
Mostly funny. ****.
DC Super Hero Girls "It's A Superful Life"
I supposed if I was stupider and less cynical I could shut off my brain and enjoy this maudlin claptrap. But the fact that I'm not a total moron and have higher standards is something I LIKE about me.
Star Wars: Forces of Destiny is kicking your @$$, DC. This cartoon is only so bad because you let it be. 0.
DC Super Hero Girl "Jetsetters"
I'mma call b.s.. Why would a superhero need flight training? Many of them can already fly, and most of the ones who can't don't have (or need) their own airplane / jet. This is especially true for Killer Frost. What gives? *.
DC Super Hero Girls "New Perry-Spective"
A Parademon Pig / Dog? Perry's kinda cute. **1/2.
Preacher "Get On Your Knees"
Good for Eugene for calling Tracy on her crap. What happened was not his fault and for the reasons he stated.
Something about the Saint of Killers' backstory doesn't add up. He doesn't act in the flashback like he never had a soul.
Can't believe Cassidy doesn't know he's third in charge. Whatta chump.
I am amazed Jessie lasted that long in the fight with the Saint. I also find it completely implausible.
I love Cassidy repeatedly calling Herr Starr unattractive and throwing him off his game. The last person to confound Herr Starr so was an internet cat.
This is the first episode of the season where all of the Season 2 cast members appeared.
Pretty good. Can't wait for next week. ****.
Preacher "The End Of The Road"
"I didn't sign up for this s***!"
"Spoken like a true Messiah." Classic Herr Starr.
The looks on of increasing concern on Joseph Gilgud's face as he goes through Dennis' stuff was really good acting. I liked Cassidy calling the crack "medicinal."
Good Tulip:
No offense. "Well, that's for me to decide, isn't it?" D*** straight. People always abuse "No offense" and think it gives them the license to be horrible if they state that after whatever bigoted opinion comes out of their mouth.
Bad Tulip:
She's surprised and offended the woman in the store doesn't want the stolen money. You ask me, that's a NORMAL reaction, and it's a bit appalling that Tulip didn't realize that even if she had the high ground with the clerk in their conversation, she turned into the bad guy entirely on her own.
No redemption arc for Adolf Hitler. Good. That should go without saying. I expect him to disappear for a couple of seasons and come back as a Big Bad.
I knew Cassidy was going to wind up killing Dennis in the finale the instant he decided to make him a vampire. The irony is that Cassidy gave him MANY chances to repent. Just the fact that he wouldn't put down the underwear means he deserved to die.
Love that Herr Starr took the piece of Jessie's soul from the Saint of Killers. I also found his observation funny that the alternative Messiah didn't know enough not to eat his own hemorrhoids.
Who is God? Whoever he is, he has a bladder like a horse.
The chicken in still alive? Is Tulip gonna be an Immortal in season 3 after all? Maybe having Cassidy save her WASN'T such a bad idea.
Great finale. ****.
The Powerpuff Girls "Monkey Love"
I like that the girls and Mojo Jojo know each other well enough by now for Mojo to make nice comments about his new girlfriend to Bubbles and for Bubbles to be supportive of the relationship. I also laughed at Buttercup calling The Stuffy Rose as a "third date restaurant". How would she know? I liked this episode. ****.
Ben 10 "Let The Bass Drop"
An evil robot DJ? Lame. As is Grandpa Max.
Ben and Gwen having fun together as kids is something I really like to see however, and I wish the show did more of it. I will give this a passing grade for that alone. ***.
Marvel's Spider-Man "A Day In The Life"
The bad luck stuff was dumb.
Cree Summer as Black Cat? Even worse than Scott Menville as Doc Ock.
I love Spidey's quick-thinking, prioritizing where time slows down. Great gimmick.
Venom at the end? Little soon, but okay.
Average. **1/2.
Marvel's Spider-Man "Party Animals"
Norman Osborn is okay with Gwen's uncle experimenting on students? WTF?
Just the specific way Norman BEGGED Harry to stay at Osborn Academy meant he couldn't refuse. He'd be the d*** of the year if he did.
Love Spidey recording the phone message for the bystander. One of the coolest things about Spider-Man is that he is a man of the people, and always doing favors for the public.
Pretty good. ***1/2.
Transformers: Robots In Disguise: Combiner Force "Moon Breaker"
At this point, I think Optimus Prime appearances are doing more harm than good. He is JUST so great, and a sorely needed presence, that you only realize how wholly inadequate the show is without him. Yeah, he's ambiguous and his "wisdom" is always completely incomprehensible and meaningless. But dang, just having even ONE wise character is worth it. Drift just does not cut it. Because they are still trying to show that Drift is on a learning curve with his pupils. Optimus is the one rock solid piece of awesome left in the franchise, and since he's the only one, I notice it more when he's present.
I did not understand or appreciate the writers having Sideswipe and Strongarm do their silly competitive bit in front of him. Because it made them look desperate and pathetic. Why else would the writers bother doing that unless they wanted me to think they suck? This is a level of writing cluelessness perhaps only matched by Wesley Crusher sarcastically saying "Grown-ups," to himself. Are the writers completely unaware how bad it makes them and the entire show look? There should be a time and a place for that stuff.
And I especially hate that Optimus, as always, gives them the positive reinforcement that Bumblebee needs them more than Optimus. I would have been all "Bite my shiny metal @$$." But that's why I'm not Optimus Prime, and why the show would do better to just go on without him.
And "We're a team!"? Again, are the writers unaware of how bad this sounds? Granted, this is a show for children, and if kids like the premise of a show, they'll tolerate pretty much anything. That's pretty much the history of the original series. But this is also the continuity of Transformers Prime, literally the first worthwhile Transformers project that ever existed. They should be trying to have higher standards because of that fact. Kids won't complain, and the adults who will, aren't the target audience anyways. But Transformers Prime was such an amazing show because it cared about, and spoke to both groups equally. And even if the kids didn't get some of the subtle story points or mythology arcs, it never dumbed things down for them anyways, and trusted they'd like the show overall, even the stuff they weren't old enough to appreciate.
Did they actually use Miami Vice beats for the car chase on the moon? Who is that for? Who would get that or appreciate it? I got it, but it's dumb.
I think all things considered, this episode is the one that tells me pretty definitively once and for all that this show is completely inferior to Prime in every way, and was a huge mistake. I was hoping I wouldn't have to think that about another Transformers cartoon for awhile, but the fact that it's the one right after Prime? Breaks my heart. *.
Transformers: Robots In Disguise: Combiner Force "Exiles"
The action scenes as the beginning were tense and excellent. It was crazy to expect an entire episode shot like a found footage movie but the teaser was great.
Want to learn more about Steeljaw's pardon soon.
Sideswipe's moving of transforming into robot form and jumping over the train was pretty sweet.
Good episode. ***1/2.
Power Rangers: Ninja Steel "Family Fusion"
I have to admit, Levi turning out to be Aiden was a good twist. At first I thought the twist would be that Levi was a robot too, but this was much better. I point this out because this is not a franchise that is well-known for surprise plot twists. I'll give them credit where it is due.
The giant bunny was cute too. ****1/2.
Power Rangers: Ninja Steel "Ace And The Race"
"Nothing beats teamwork!" This show is literally the worst.
I never realized the Yellow Ranger in this incarnation was a guy until this episode. First time I've seen that although it can't actually be the first time it's happened.
Liked the return of the traditional Power Rangers Theme in the climax.
I laughed at the goldfish hovering about Victor.
Dumb, but that's this show. It could have been dumber. **1/2.
The Orville "Old Wounds"
I can pretty safely say that once 12 Monkeys ends next year, this is gonna be my favorite sci-fi show. It's the best of Star Trek (sunny futurism and humanistic optimism) while fixing its most glaring faults (too perfect humans and no conflict). The future is shiny and bright, and the ships look about as big and comfortable to live in as the Enterprise. The sci-fi era this most lives up to is the 1990's. That Seth MacFarlane's favorite era too, and it shows.
And the jokes are great. What is great about the humor here is that it isn't actually cartoony or unrealistic. It doesn't undercut the reality of situation, or take you out of the sci-fi drama aspect of the show. Do you know what previous franchise did that well? The Buffyverse. Except I have a good feeling that The Orville is going to wind up being a lot more enjoyable as the series goes along, while the Buffyverse became soul-crushing by the end. Just based on the ending here, where the twist turns out to be that the XO is an even nicer person than we thought, shows this series' sensibilities are completely different than other current sci-fi. I want sci-fi to go back to heroes I can root for like on Deep Space Nine and Farscape. And this show seems to be the first show since Farscape to want to do that.
Amazing. It's amazing what Seth MacFarlane can accomplish when he WANTS to put in the effort. *****.
American Dad! "The Talented Mr. Dingleberry"
The idea of Roger as a psychotic Ventriloquist's dummy was funny enough (especially since he sort of looks like Norman Bates). But I was especially tickled by Roger's claim that Arnold Schwarzenegger is one of his personas.
Funny episode. I like the end of the warning falling off of the make-up, and showing that this had happened multiple times before. ****.
American Dad! "West To Mexico"
I'll tell you why this episode is a failure. Nobody, ANYWHERE asked for, or wanted, an American Dad! Western parody. Nobody. And I cannot positively rate something I not only never wanted, but wasn't good enough for me to change my opinion about that.
Good they are going back into Roger's superspeed power though, and I always like to hear that Bullock is 70 years old. But really, I simply do not care. *.
Upcoming reviews include Doctor Who: Series 9, Class: Series 1, The X-Files: Season 10, Avengers: Age Of Ultron (Blu-Ray), Ant-Man (Blu-Ray), Captain America: Civil War (Blu-Ray), Doctor Strange (Blu-Ray), Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 (Blu-Ray), Jessica Jones: Season 1, Daredevil: Season 2, Marvel's Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D.: Season 2, Marvel's Agent Carter: Season 1, The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (Blu-Ray), X-Men: Days Of Future Past: The Rogue Cut, Deadpool, X-Men: Apocalypse (Blu-Ray), Logan, The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes! Season 1, The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes! Season 2, Zootopia, Moana (Blu-Ray), Tangled: Before Ever After (DVD), Inside Out (Blu-Ray), The Good Dinosaur (Blu-Ray), Finding Dory (Blu-Ray), Once Upon A Time: Season 5, The BFG, Tomorrowland, Star Wars: The Force Awakens (Blu-Ray), Star Wars Rebels: Season 2, Lego Star Wars: Droid Tales, Lego Star Wars: The Freemaker Adventures: Season One, Jim Henson's Turkey Hollow (DVD), Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them (Blu-Ray), Teen Titans Go!: Get In Pig Out, DC Super Hero Girls: Intergalactic Games, LEGO DC Super Hero Girls: Brain Drain, The LEGO Batman Movie, Justice League Dark, Teen Titans: The Judas Contract, Batman And Harley Quinn, Suicide Squad (Blu-Ray), Wonder Woman (Blu-Ray), The Flash: Season 2, The Flash: Season 3, Arrow: Season 4, Arrow: Season 5, DC's Legends Of Tomorrow: Season 1, DC's Legends Of Tomorrow: Season 2, Supergirl: Season 1, Supergirl: Season 2 Vixen: The Movie, Gotham: Season 2, Gotham: Season 3, iZombie: Season 1, iZombie: Season 2, iZombie: Season 3, Lucifer: Season 1, Lucifer: Season 2, Samurai Jack: Season 5, Be Cool Scooby Doo!: Spooky Kooky Fun!, Wabbit: A Looney Tunes Prod.: Hare-Raising Tales, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey: Extended Edition, The Hobbit: The Desolation Of Smaug: Extended Edition, The Hobbit: The Battle Of The Five Armies: Extended Edition, Airplane! / Airplane II: The Sequel: Double Feature, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Beyond The Known Universe, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Earth's Last Stand, Tales Of The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Super Shredder, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Half-Shell Heroes: Blast To The Past, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out Of The Shadows, Power Rangers (2017), Power Rangers: Zeo: Volume 2, Turbo: A Power Rangers Movie, Power Rangers Turbo: Volume 1, Power Rangers: Turbo: Volume 2, Power Rangers In Space Volume 1, Power Rangers In Space: Volume 2, Power Rangers Samurai: The Complete Season, Power Rangers: Megaforce: The Complete Season, Power Rangers: Super Megaforce: The Complete Season, Transformers: Robots In Disguise: Season 1, Heroes Reborn: The Complete Series, Avatar: The Last Airbender: Book 1: Water, Avatar: The Last Airbender: Book 2: Earth, Avatar: The Last Airbender: Book 3: Fire, The Legend Of Korra: The Complete Series, Haven: Season 5 - Vol. 1, Haven: The Final Season, Under The Dome: Season 3, Sleepy Hollow: Season 2, Sleepy Hollow: Season 3, Brooklyn Nine-Nine: Season 2, Brooklyn Nine-Nine: Season 3, The Jurassic Park Trilogy, Jurassic World, Back To The Future: The Complete Animated Series, Shaun The Sheep Movie (Blu-Ray), Shaun The Sheep: The Farmer's Llamas, 12 Monkeys: Season 1, 12 Monkeys: Season 2, Grimm: Season 4, Grimm: Season 5, Grimm: Season 6, The Wonder Years: Season 4, The Wonder Years: Season 5, The Wonder Years: Season 6, The Peanuts Movie, Peanuts By Schulz: Snoopy Tales, Peanuts By Schulz: Go Team Go!, Bob's Burgers: Season 5, Ghostbusters: Answer The Call, Community: Season 6, Hannibal: Season 3, Danger Mouse: The Complete Series, Prison Break: Season 5, Game Of Thrones: Season 5, and Game of Thrones: Season 6.
Twin Peaks "The Return: Part 17"
Time travel? Did Coop actually prevent Laura Palmer's murder? Is Pete fishing in an alternate timeline? So many questions.
I love that they used CGI to convincingly recreate Frank Silva as BOB. That was a pretty cool climax. Everyone was there.
I honestly don't have too much to say about this part, other to say that I mostly liked it. I wasn't thrilled with the ending, but the rest of the episode was great. ****.
Twin Peaks "The Return: Part 18"
Underwhelming and disappointing, especially since it turns out last week was the last we've seen of Audrey Horne. I was expecting a mindblowing story point with her and they didn't even bother.
I'll say one thing: Laura Dern still looks great naked. If that's not a body double, bravo.
I imagine Cooper seeing her note where she calls him Richard and herself Linda sort of hints to me about what happens to the people in Lynch films after the second person wakes up in an entirely new identity. This is what happens once Betty and Rita are gone to everybody else in the universe. I believe this scene is done to show us a person on the other side of that for once.
Similarly, the ending, and the hint that this is NOT 2017, and either takes place later or sooner, is another thing to hint that the Universe was woken up to a new identity, with Coop being the only one aware things changed. To be blunt, I hate this idea. But to be blunter than that, it's still a MUCH better ending than what we were stuck with for 25 years. This is not the ending I would have liked, or that I hoped for. But it is far better than having Coop stuck in the Black Lodge forever.
Besides, not everything in the Universe seems to have reset, at least not all at once. Diane appears to be who she is in Glastonbury Grove, at least until she and Coop boink. And Coop is still FBI. And Janey-E and Dougie are clearly reunited. Whatever this potential new universe is, it's not so bad.
I was disappointed, but it's not like this is the first time. The last time I was outright heartbroken. I'll take disappointed any day of the week. **1/2.
The Adventures Of Batman And Robin "The Lost Episode"
Finally saw this. These lost 16 minute wrap-around segments to the Sega CD videogame of the same name as the TV show sort of form a complete story, albeit one that seems a bit choppy without the videogame levels to tie things together. In the cartoon segments, Clayface poses as Rupert Thorne and hires Poison Ivy, Riddler, Harley Quinn, and Joker to kidnap Robin and take out Batman. The episode, as it were, is slightly more violent than the G rated cartoon, but it's a PG level violence at best (similar to Batman: Mask of the Phantasm).
How does it fit into my DCAU timeline?
Not well. But I can place it before Mudslide, even though this is supposed to be the The Adventures Of Batman and Robin era of the show. Why before and not after? Clayface meets a similar end in The Lost Episode, but as far as I can tell, Batman and Robin weren't fully clear on his fate here, when Batman saw him apparently die in Mudslide. That makes Clayface's story of reforming the way he did in TNBA's Growing Pains make more sense if Batman already knows he's been out of commission for awhile. What Batman DOESN'T know is that Clayface has also been out of Commission once before this.
I placed it after "What Is Reality?", even though Riddler was made catatonic in that episode, because he's already inexplicably fine before "Riddler's Reform" anyways, and because it is stated "What Is Reality?" was the first time Riddler saw Batman and Robin since his debut in "If You're So Smart, Why Aren't You Rich?"
We have never seen the BTAS era Riddler do so well in a fight against Batman as he does in this episode, but it is true the TNBA version seemed to have gained some acrobatic skills.
Is Tress MacNeill voicing Poison Ivy instead of Diane Pershing? It sounds that way to me. And I have to say if she is, she's dead on. Batman And Harley Quinn probably should have hired her instead of Paget Brewster.
Am I the only one who feels weird to see Batman using that giant machine gun? I think the writers of the videogame goofed there.
I think this needs a DVD release in the worst way. ****.
Teen Titans Go! "Lication"
Much like their pyramid scheme episode, this is TTG looking at an adult problem in a simplified way, to explain to kids what is wrong with it. The trouble here is that unlike pyramid schemes, the Shareconomy may not actually be sinister. It DOES make a certain kind of financial sense, and it's probably better for the environment too. That being said, the Titans are right to be skeptical for the reasons they are. Cynicism about stuff like this is something that is good to ingrain into kids early on. It's a money making App, and it's totally free? What is the angle there? Who actually benefits? And won't this put legit businesses out of work?
Ultimately, I do not think that a Shareconomy will destroy our way of life, but Wal-Mart sounded like an okay idea on paper too. The episode is right to get kids to be skeptical about things that seem too good to be true.
For the record, Raven is right. Robin is gross. Totally. Yuck. ****.
Teen Titans Go! "Labor Day"
Cyborg being a lime scab bums me out for some reason.
I laughed when Cyborg ate logs and pooped out the umbrella arm. His ears turning into water sprinkles was equally fun.
Love Raven making fun of what an ugly shirt Robin wears.
Love the Dig Dug homage.
I love Beast Boy's tongue turning into Robin's arm and slapping away the chip.
Beast Boy is cute as an oil gusher, and I loved the cartoon face on the comet as it rushed towards Earth.
I laughed at the Titans turning into strips of bacon.
Mostly funny. ****.
DC Super Hero Girls "It's A Superful Life"
I supposed if I was stupider and less cynical I could shut off my brain and enjoy this maudlin claptrap. But the fact that I'm not a total moron and have higher standards is something I LIKE about me.
Star Wars: Forces of Destiny is kicking your @$$, DC. This cartoon is only so bad because you let it be. 0.
DC Super Hero Girl "Jetsetters"
I'mma call b.s.. Why would a superhero need flight training? Many of them can already fly, and most of the ones who can't don't have (or need) their own airplane / jet. This is especially true for Killer Frost. What gives? *.
DC Super Hero Girls "New Perry-Spective"
A Parademon Pig / Dog? Perry's kinda cute. **1/2.
Preacher "Get On Your Knees"
Good for Eugene for calling Tracy on her crap. What happened was not his fault and for the reasons he stated.
Something about the Saint of Killers' backstory doesn't add up. He doesn't act in the flashback like he never had a soul.
Can't believe Cassidy doesn't know he's third in charge. Whatta chump.
I am amazed Jessie lasted that long in the fight with the Saint. I also find it completely implausible.
I love Cassidy repeatedly calling Herr Starr unattractive and throwing him off his game. The last person to confound Herr Starr so was an internet cat.
This is the first episode of the season where all of the Season 2 cast members appeared.
Pretty good. Can't wait for next week. ****.
Preacher "The End Of The Road"
"I didn't sign up for this s***!"
"Spoken like a true Messiah." Classic Herr Starr.
The looks on of increasing concern on Joseph Gilgud's face as he goes through Dennis' stuff was really good acting. I liked Cassidy calling the crack "medicinal."
Good Tulip:
No offense. "Well, that's for me to decide, isn't it?" D*** straight. People always abuse "No offense" and think it gives them the license to be horrible if they state that after whatever bigoted opinion comes out of their mouth.
Bad Tulip:
She's surprised and offended the woman in the store doesn't want the stolen money. You ask me, that's a NORMAL reaction, and it's a bit appalling that Tulip didn't realize that even if she had the high ground with the clerk in their conversation, she turned into the bad guy entirely on her own.
No redemption arc for Adolf Hitler. Good. That should go without saying. I expect him to disappear for a couple of seasons and come back as a Big Bad.
I knew Cassidy was going to wind up killing Dennis in the finale the instant he decided to make him a vampire. The irony is that Cassidy gave him MANY chances to repent. Just the fact that he wouldn't put down the underwear means he deserved to die.
Love that Herr Starr took the piece of Jessie's soul from the Saint of Killers. I also found his observation funny that the alternative Messiah didn't know enough not to eat his own hemorrhoids.
Who is God? Whoever he is, he has a bladder like a horse.
The chicken in still alive? Is Tulip gonna be an Immortal in season 3 after all? Maybe having Cassidy save her WASN'T such a bad idea.
Great finale. ****.
The Powerpuff Girls "Monkey Love"
I like that the girls and Mojo Jojo know each other well enough by now for Mojo to make nice comments about his new girlfriend to Bubbles and for Bubbles to be supportive of the relationship. I also laughed at Buttercup calling The Stuffy Rose as a "third date restaurant". How would she know? I liked this episode. ****.
Ben 10 "Let The Bass Drop"
An evil robot DJ? Lame. As is Grandpa Max.
Ben and Gwen having fun together as kids is something I really like to see however, and I wish the show did more of it. I will give this a passing grade for that alone. ***.
Marvel's Spider-Man "A Day In The Life"
The bad luck stuff was dumb.
Cree Summer as Black Cat? Even worse than Scott Menville as Doc Ock.
I love Spidey's quick-thinking, prioritizing where time slows down. Great gimmick.
Venom at the end? Little soon, but okay.
Average. **1/2.
Marvel's Spider-Man "Party Animals"
Norman Osborn is okay with Gwen's uncle experimenting on students? WTF?
Just the specific way Norman BEGGED Harry to stay at Osborn Academy meant he couldn't refuse. He'd be the d*** of the year if he did.
Love Spidey recording the phone message for the bystander. One of the coolest things about Spider-Man is that he is a man of the people, and always doing favors for the public.
Pretty good. ***1/2.
Transformers: Robots In Disguise: Combiner Force "Moon Breaker"
At this point, I think Optimus Prime appearances are doing more harm than good. He is JUST so great, and a sorely needed presence, that you only realize how wholly inadequate the show is without him. Yeah, he's ambiguous and his "wisdom" is always completely incomprehensible and meaningless. But dang, just having even ONE wise character is worth it. Drift just does not cut it. Because they are still trying to show that Drift is on a learning curve with his pupils. Optimus is the one rock solid piece of awesome left in the franchise, and since he's the only one, I notice it more when he's present.
I did not understand or appreciate the writers having Sideswipe and Strongarm do their silly competitive bit in front of him. Because it made them look desperate and pathetic. Why else would the writers bother doing that unless they wanted me to think they suck? This is a level of writing cluelessness perhaps only matched by Wesley Crusher sarcastically saying "Grown-ups," to himself. Are the writers completely unaware how bad it makes them and the entire show look? There should be a time and a place for that stuff.
And I especially hate that Optimus, as always, gives them the positive reinforcement that Bumblebee needs them more than Optimus. I would have been all "Bite my shiny metal @$$." But that's why I'm not Optimus Prime, and why the show would do better to just go on without him.
And "We're a team!"? Again, are the writers unaware of how bad this sounds? Granted, this is a show for children, and if kids like the premise of a show, they'll tolerate pretty much anything. That's pretty much the history of the original series. But this is also the continuity of Transformers Prime, literally the first worthwhile Transformers project that ever existed. They should be trying to have higher standards because of that fact. Kids won't complain, and the adults who will, aren't the target audience anyways. But Transformers Prime was such an amazing show because it cared about, and spoke to both groups equally. And even if the kids didn't get some of the subtle story points or mythology arcs, it never dumbed things down for them anyways, and trusted they'd like the show overall, even the stuff they weren't old enough to appreciate.
Did they actually use Miami Vice beats for the car chase on the moon? Who is that for? Who would get that or appreciate it? I got it, but it's dumb.
I think all things considered, this episode is the one that tells me pretty definitively once and for all that this show is completely inferior to Prime in every way, and was a huge mistake. I was hoping I wouldn't have to think that about another Transformers cartoon for awhile, but the fact that it's the one right after Prime? Breaks my heart. *.
Transformers: Robots In Disguise: Combiner Force "Exiles"
The action scenes as the beginning were tense and excellent. It was crazy to expect an entire episode shot like a found footage movie but the teaser was great.
Want to learn more about Steeljaw's pardon soon.
Sideswipe's moving of transforming into robot form and jumping over the train was pretty sweet.
Good episode. ***1/2.
Power Rangers: Ninja Steel "Family Fusion"
I have to admit, Levi turning out to be Aiden was a good twist. At first I thought the twist would be that Levi was a robot too, but this was much better. I point this out because this is not a franchise that is well-known for surprise plot twists. I'll give them credit where it is due.
The giant bunny was cute too. ****1/2.
Power Rangers: Ninja Steel "Ace And The Race"
"Nothing beats teamwork!" This show is literally the worst.
I never realized the Yellow Ranger in this incarnation was a guy until this episode. First time I've seen that although it can't actually be the first time it's happened.
Liked the return of the traditional Power Rangers Theme in the climax.
I laughed at the goldfish hovering about Victor.
Dumb, but that's this show. It could have been dumber. **1/2.
The Orville "Old Wounds"
I can pretty safely say that once 12 Monkeys ends next year, this is gonna be my favorite sci-fi show. It's the best of Star Trek (sunny futurism and humanistic optimism) while fixing its most glaring faults (too perfect humans and no conflict). The future is shiny and bright, and the ships look about as big and comfortable to live in as the Enterprise. The sci-fi era this most lives up to is the 1990's. That Seth MacFarlane's favorite era too, and it shows.
And the jokes are great. What is great about the humor here is that it isn't actually cartoony or unrealistic. It doesn't undercut the reality of situation, or take you out of the sci-fi drama aspect of the show. Do you know what previous franchise did that well? The Buffyverse. Except I have a good feeling that The Orville is going to wind up being a lot more enjoyable as the series goes along, while the Buffyverse became soul-crushing by the end. Just based on the ending here, where the twist turns out to be that the XO is an even nicer person than we thought, shows this series' sensibilities are completely different than other current sci-fi. I want sci-fi to go back to heroes I can root for like on Deep Space Nine and Farscape. And this show seems to be the first show since Farscape to want to do that.
Amazing. It's amazing what Seth MacFarlane can accomplish when he WANTS to put in the effort. *****.
American Dad! "The Talented Mr. Dingleberry"
The idea of Roger as a psychotic Ventriloquist's dummy was funny enough (especially since he sort of looks like Norman Bates). But I was especially tickled by Roger's claim that Arnold Schwarzenegger is one of his personas.
Funny episode. I like the end of the warning falling off of the make-up, and showing that this had happened multiple times before. ****.
American Dad! "West To Mexico"
I'll tell you why this episode is a failure. Nobody, ANYWHERE asked for, or wanted, an American Dad! Western parody. Nobody. And I cannot positively rate something I not only never wanted, but wasn't good enough for me to change my opinion about that.
Good they are going back into Roger's superspeed power though, and I always like to hear that Bullock is 70 years old. But really, I simply do not care. *.