No "Dungeons" for COMMUNITY

Article first published as No "Dungeons" for COMMUNITY on TheTVKing.

This week's installment of NBC's Community, "Advanced Advanced Dungeons & Dragons," is an excellent entry for the series. While avoiding many of the fantasy-heavy elements other, similar episodes show us, in some stellar acting (with choice sound effects tossed in), the cast paints a picture of a tale as personal as it is made up, luxuriating in the relationships between the players. Plus, there are oodles of the stuff that makes Community so charming.

The little touches that season five lacked are in almost every scene of "Advanced Advanced Dungeons & Dragons." It begins right off the bat as Jeff (Joel McHale) mentions Neil (Charley Koontz) as a background character - while Neil strolls through the background. The Dean (Jim Rash) says the school doesn't have insurance, Abed (Danny Pudi) is excited to tackle the challenge of making a good sequel, and Hickey (Jonthan Banks) doesn't know the game his son loves involving dungeons and dragons is called Dungeons & Dragons. All of these things kick the writing up a notch.

Also, there are little references for Community fans to pick up. The names Abed comes up with for the characters within the game, from Joseph Gordon and Riggs Diehard to the troll, all mean something. And the Hawthorne Mountains are a clear tribute to Pierce.

There are also brilliant lines of dialogue sprinkled within. Hickey's son, Hank (David Cross, Arrested Development), whom the gang plans this activity to help Hickey reconnect with, calls Abed 'Aziz,' which sounds a little racist, but is a wonderful shout out to Aziz Ansari. When Hickey is asked what drew him to this game at age sixty, he responds with "Dungeons. It'd be the dungeons," delivered just beautifully. Chang wondering if Hank means Times Square when saying his father missed birthdays because he was somewhere rhyming with no there is so earnest it evokes a smile. Everything Abed says as a troll, either troll, is gold. And Shirley's (Yvette Nicole Brown) parting shot after dying in the game, "Just remember, whenever the wind whispers through the woods, you got me killed," is classic wit.

But beyond all of this, as usual, it's the character development that makes the installment a winner. Jeff's own relationship with his father colors his desire to help Hickey and Hank reconnect, and the tenuous bond, which a proud Hickey is willingly to do just about anything to heal, it very moving. This parent-child connection is one the show has explored before, and it really works well here.

Of course, Abed is outside of this, not being one who relates well to others. His role in "Advanced Advanced Dungeons & Dragons" is to take the game completely seriously, at the expense of all else. He even gets mad that Hickey treats some of the proceedings as a joke. We're reminded once more why Abed isn't normal, but there's also a vulnerability here that informs on who he is and still makes him sympathetic, and his detachment is what drives the great scenario.

Other, small moments are also worth noting. Hickey's instincts is to punch things in the heart, but that's because he's interested in setting his own rules and not feeling helpless, not because he's overly violent. Annie (Alison Brie) mourns Shirley for only a moment before rooting around in her gear, showing how she presents a nice facade to the world, but is ruthless enough to be a competitor. And the Dean's commitment to playing Jeff's son in the D&D world is not only sweet, but integral to who he is.

The ending of all this is great and realistic. Hank and Hickey aren't all smiles and hugs, but a door has been opened between them as efforts are made. They cannot repair such a broken relationship in one afternoon, but thanks to the Save Greendale organization, they have the opportunity to find common ground to start from. It may be just about the most perfectly constructed conclusion of a Community episode yet.

Community airs Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.

ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT Gets "Off the Hook" (Season 4 Episodes 11-15)

Article first published as ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT Gets "Off the Hook" (Season 4 Episodes 11-15) on TheTVKing.

Netflix has resurrected Arrested Development, seven years after its cancellation on FOX, and now, starting this week, presents fifteen brand new episodes. For ease of review purposes, I am breaking down my coverage into three articles covering five episodes each, and this review is for the final five installments.

I was surprised by the lack of finality at the end of the season. Yes, season four was always talked about as a "first act" for either a film or another season. There is more story to tell, and we will presumably get it. But leaving so many things open-ended, from Lucille 2's (Liza Minnelli) disappearance, to George Michael's (Michael Cera) app, to Rebel (Isla Fisher) being torn between father and son, to Gob's (Will Arnett) relationship with Tony Wonder (Ben Stiller), to Linday's (Portia de Rossi) run for office, is unexpected.

Lucille 2's apparent murder or kidnapping is the most enticing unanswered question. She is a memorable character, and considering her increased presence and involvement in season four, it makes it even harder to lose her now. I hope, whatever has happened to her, she's all right, and will survive to get into more wacky situations with the Bluth family in the future.

That's not to say some arcs haven't run their course. While we may get some more milk out of them, Tobias's (David Cross) return to show business with the Fantastic Four musical seems doomed, Michael's (Jason Bateman) movie may be done, the wall Lucille (Jessica Walter) wants to build could be finished, and Maeby's (Alia Shawkat) run as a CEO seems a failure. Yet, based on the way Arrested Development breathes new life into old running gags frequently, these things might not be over with yet, either.

Overall, the final five installments feel much the same as the first ten, partially owing to the fact that they tell the tales of different characters than the early ones. Episode eleven, "A New Attitude," completes Gob's story, but the other four all have new characters at their center, whom were not featured until now. It's a little strange that all of the characters who have two episodes this year have their installments set close together, but it seems to work.

Part of why the flow is not interrupted is because the earliest episodes begin with Michael, and the latest end with George Michael, which may be Michael's most connected-to character in this season. Michael and George Michael have a bit of a falling out, which is finally addressed, but not resolved, in George Michael's episodes, number 13 "It Gets Better" and number 15 "Blockheads." It's this father-son through line that makes the year feel somewhat complete. Plus, Michael appears in almost all fifteen episodes, so he is the thread that keeps everything together.

George Michael's episodes are important because it finally feels like he joins the adult members of the Bluth family in all their craziness. He has his own eccentricities, but his have always seemed tamer and separate from his father, aunt, uncles, and grandparents. Now, though, dating the same girl as Michael, much as Gob and Michael once did, and letting a lie create an entire company, raises him up to their level. I'm not sure this is a good thing, but it does feel like he has a bigger part to contribute.

It's interesting that George Michael finally gets over Maeby at the same time Maeby might actually be interested in him. She won't like him any longer when she realizes he's a big liar, probably, though who knows? However, it's nice to see their dynamic change, and character growth for them.

Maeby's development isn't so much arrested, as moving into a new chapter. In "Señoritis," her episode, the twelfth, she is getting a lifetime achievement award in the film industry, a sure sign that her career is over. She's way too young to be done working and has a bit of an identity crisis, which is what pushes her into trying to run George Michael's non-existent company. This is a Maeby more desperate and insecure than we've seen her before, which is a fascinating direction to take her in.

Buster's (Tony Hale) turn, the fourteenth installment, "Off the Hook," isn't particularly notable. Of all the Arrested Development stars, Buster gets the least to do in this fourth season, rarely seen in other installments. His feature is a very typical, predictable Buster story, with the episode title alluding to the hilarious new attachment on Buster's wrist when he gets rid of his hook. But it doesn't break any fresh ground for him, basically repeating past arcs.

Gob's arc with Tony is one of my favorite Arrested Development bits ever. I adore the way Arnett and Stiller play these roles so sincerely, showing vulnerable men who don't like themselves and love themselves at the same time, unsure what friendship feels like. I doubt they will become a full-fledged couple, as neither really seems gay, but their stunted emotional maturity makes their dealings both awkward and very funny at the same time.

The supporting character I want to see more of in the next Arrested Development incarnation is Steve Holt (Justin Grant Wade). We glimpse him a couple of times, but it's more of a reminder of his existence, than any actual plot. Biological father Gob is wrapped up in his own stuff, so there is no time for Steve, but I'd really like to see the two of them forced to work things out in some manner. Ah, well.

In the end, it feels really good to have Arrested Development back, and I'm grateful for these fifteen episodes, but at the risk of sounding spoiled, it isn't enough. Because of the lack of closure, there absolutely has to be more. It's almost guaranteed to happen, but until production begins, it leaves me a little on edge. The season three finale was more conclusive.

All fifteen episodes of Arrested Development's fourth season are available on Netflix now.

ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT Same "Double Crossers" As Always (Season 4 Episodes 6-10)

Article first published as ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT Same "Double Crossers" As Always (Season 4 Episodes 6-10) on TheTVKing.

Netflix has resurrected Arrested Development, seven years after its cancellation on FOX, and now, starting yesterday, presents fifteen brand new episodes. For ease of review purposes, I am breaking down my coverage into three articles covering five episodes each, with this article focusing on episodes 6-10.

The thing that strikes me about the first four of this grouping of five is how much they seem like "typical" Arrested Development episodes. Sure, each one still centers on a single character, technically, but these middle installments include a lot more of the rest of the cast than the earliest episodes do, with more scenes and plot where the featured actor doesn't appear. As such, it allows the multiple story lines to be served and continue.

It also brings back a lot of the family dynamics fans of the show are used to. Beginning in the sixth episode, "Double Crossers," George Sr. (Jeffrey Tambor) manipulates his children against one another, especially Gob (Will Arnett) and Michael (Jason Bateman), who may possible now be dating the same woman, again. This is classic Bluth shenanigans, and eventually the Bluth children talk and compare notes. While family togetherness is the stated purpose of the Bluth parents, they are happy to chuck it out the door to serve their own purposes, which usually works for a time on their children.

Which is not to say that the kids don't follow in the footsteps of their parents. George Sr. may need Michael's help with his business deal, but Michael is also making agreements in order to get his film made. Soon, many bargains are being struck between the various sides, each Bluth worried only about their own selfish needs, no one helping the others out. Which will likely lead to the failing of everyone, per usual.

Why can't the Bluths just support one another? Why do they have to back stab and bicker? It makes for great, entertaining television, but sometimes it becomes a little sad, even when viewers are laughing.

We also get a return of many more recurring players and subplots. The mysterious Mister F. theme comes back in episode nine, "Smashed," when Tobias works at Lucielle 2's (Liza Minnelli) rehab clinic with her brother (Tommy Tune). Steve Holt (Justin Grant Wade) resurfaces in episode seven, "Colony Collapse," wanting to reconnect with his dad, Gob. Also in the same episode, Gob is finally forced to figure out what to do about his relationship with Anne (Mae Whitman), turning to magic to escape, much to chagrin of her father, Pastor Veal (Alan Tudyk).

Add in the new arcs, which feature new players, and this all begins to come together in the cohesive tale we are accustomed to, with each Bluth's plot running through each other Bluth's plot. Edited differently, these four episodes could easily serve most of the main cast (or at least the ones featured in them) with connected stories and situations, rather than being so concerned with just one Bluth.

In fact, although Michael is not the lead of any of the five, he bickers with Gob in "Double Crossers" and "Colony Collapse," and goes on a double date with Lindsay (Portia di Rossi) in her installment, episode eight's "Red Hairing," which we then again see in Tobias's (David Cross) "Smashed." Then, Michael finishes up his Ron Howard (himself) / Rebel (Isla Fisher) confusion. So the stories are getting more expansive and inclusive.

Episode ten, "Queen B.," though, follows Lucielle (Jessica Walter) and feels like the beginning of the end. This installment seems to finish off the boat chase plot begun in season three's finale, go through Lucille's trial, and takes her all the way up to the Cinco de Cuatro night we've seen so much of. The various threads begin to really tie together, bringing things back around and paying off bits started earlier in season four. I cannot say for sure, but it seems like season four might have a clear beginning, middle, and end, and we're moving into the end now.

Knowing season four can't go on forever, I'm hesitant to rush through the final five. It has been so satisfying returning to these characters, and I don't wish to let them go. For every old story that somewhat concludes, like Anne's involvement with the family and Lucille's long-running feud Lucille 2, we get another continuation, like Gob and Steve Holt's unfinished business, as well as another story just starting, like George Sr. and Oscar's (also Tambor) personality switch, Lucille 2's disappearance, Lindsay's run for office in Love's (Terry Crews) place, and George Michael's (Michael Cera) continuing avoidance of Michael, which seems to be carefully planned. This so much rich material to mine, and it's being handled very well.

That being said, I look forward to learning the fate of some of the newbies that may be near the end of their run, and I'm anxious for Maeby (Alia Shawkat), George Michael, and Buster's (Tony Hale) turns in the pole position, as well a second outing for Gob. Time to watch more Arrested Development!

All fifteen episodes of season four are currently available for Netflix streaming video subscribers.

"A New Start" For ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT (Season 4 Episodes 1-5)

Article first published as "A New Start" For ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT (Season 4 Episodes 1-5) on TheTVKing.

Netflix has resurrected Arrested Development, seven years after its cancellation on FOX, and now, starting today, presents fifteen brand new episodes. For ease of review purposes, I am breaking down my coverage into three articles covering five episodes each.

This new Arrested Development brings back all the beloved characters from the sitcom, but because of scheduling difficulties, each installment focuses on one specific player. Other cast members come in and out often, but there is a single person who gets the most stuff, while others are barely seen at all.

First up is "Flight of the Phoenix" with Michael (Jason Bateman), arguably the central protagonist of the ensemble. When last we leave Michael, he is trying to escape his family, a smart move considering how much they have been dragging him down. But as we see in this premiere, he is not able to stay away, and thus is pulled into self-destruction's embrace even tighter, hitting near rock bottom when forced to move into his son, George Michael's (Michael Cera), dorm room, only to eventually be kicked out.

This is wonderful development for Michael, both in keeping with the personality already established, and because it demonstrates just how much like the rest of the family he is. Michael has striven very hard to set himself apart and seem "normal," but that just isn't how life shakes out for him, and even after George Michael finally grows a bit of a spine and in a roundabout way asks Michael to leave, Michael still doesn't get the hint.

Michael seems better when episode four, "The B. Team," picks up his tale, but it has to be denial, rather than success, driving the change. Intent on becoming a movie producer, working with Ron Howard (the narrator of Arrested Development playing himself here) to put together a picture about the Bluth family, specifically Michael's relationship with George Michael. Hopefully, through this experience, Michael will finally see that he is just as bad a father as his dad is, albeit in different ways, and Ron Howard's interest will serve as a wake-up call to him, leading to understanding and lasting development.

I absolutely adore "The B. Team" because of all of the meta references in it. Besides Howard, we see Brian Grazer (himself), and their offices at Imagine Entertainment. Whether or not the picture gets made, which I feel it will, and that the flashback scenes with Kristen Wiig, Seth Rogen, and others playing the familiar characters are probably from this project, this is a clever, tongue-in-cheek extension of some of the self-referential jokes the series already does. I only wish Bryce Dallas Howard would play Ron Howard's daughter in Arrested Development, rather than Isla Fisher (Confessions of a Shopaholic) filling the role.

It's not just done for meta purposes, though, firmly ensconcing the bigger story with these bits. Through a few plot twists, Maeby's (Alia Shawkat) producer career ends up being connected, and former Bluth secretary Kitty (Judy Greer) now works there, using the job for some unknown scheme to bring down the family. And other recurring roles, such as Warden Gentles (James Lipton), Andy and Rocky Richter (Andy Richter), and Carl Weathers (Carl Weathers) figure in, as well.

In fact, that's how much of Arrested Development seems to be playing out. Season four, like the first three before it, brilliantly weaves new characters and gags into everything that has come before it, with many faces and bits returning when least expected. The list of guest stars in these first five half-hours is quite long, though each is used effectively to further the plot, rather than being distracting or plain stunt casting. I think this sort of talent effectively helps fill the gaps of the missing main players.

Episodes three and five, "Indian Takers" and "A New Start," unfold concurrently, with the former following Lindsay (Portia de Rossi) and the latter focusing on Tobias (David Cross). Each have many of the same settings and scenes, but "A New Start" does not repeat "Indian Takers," instead giving new glimpses of the bigger picture.

I think Lindsay and Tobias are meant for each other. Sure, they end up with two other lovers in these episodes (The Office's Chris Diamantopoulus and comedian Maria Bamford), but they way that they keep crossing paths and end up in the same spots proves they're connected. Perhaps they aren't sexually attracted to one another, but there's a reason they are in each other's lives, and it's kind of sweet, if a bit sad, to see how hopeless they are to escape each other, much as they might try.

These two installments aren't the only ones that cross, with a couple of focal points, the aftermath of Lucille's (Jessica Walter) arrest in the season three finale and a family meeting to discuss stimulus money, bringing everyone back together. While it's sometimes hard to pinpoint the exact timeline of the narrative, each episode tells a cohesive story, and also serves the season's arcs as a whole. Putting this together has to be a difficult feat, and I'm impressed with how well it's being done, assuming it will all wrap up neatly in the end.

The weak point of these first five is episode two, "Borderline Personalities." This is about a scheme George Sr. (Jeffrey Tambor) hatches with Oscar (also Tambor) being his unwilling accomplice, but despite the wonderful additions of John Slattery (Mad Men), Karen Maruyama (Pulp Fiction), and Mary Lynn Rajskub (24), as well as the genius dual performance given by Tambor, I just couldn't get into the setting or story.

I think part of the accessibility problem is my general disinterest with anything set in the desert or with that harsh southwestern color scheme, so perhaps this is a personal opinion that will not be shared by other fans. However, even though I do consider it the worst of the five, I still think it is pretty darn funny.

Ten more episodes remain to check out, and they are sure to evoke as many laughs as the ostrich, an inability to recognize faces, subtle references, a secret ballot, a Google unnamed tech company car, and so much more have already gotten. I like that Netflix has them all out at once because I don't have to wait, but it's sad to think they'll be burned through in a few days and then it'll be over again. Thankfully, the first five installments prove that Arrested Development has lost nothing during the very long hiatus, and remains one of TV's smartest, most original, most complex comedies. I'm so glad it's back!

Arrested Development season four is available in its entirety on Netflix now.

Archer The Complete Third Season

FX's Archer may very well be my favorite animated series on television. Setting aside its cartoon format, it's one of the best comedies, period. A mash up between workplace sitcom and spy adventure, Archer follows Sterling Archer (H. Jon Benjamin) and the staff of ISIS as they travel the globe, foiling bad guys, wrestling with ocelots, and sleeping with each other. Just before season four premieres this week, The Complete Third season has been released on DVD and Blu-ray.

Note: I've previously written articles about several of the episodes mentioned. Click on the links in the episode titles for those full reviews.

Season three begins with a three part tale entitled "Heart of Archness." Originally having aired months before the rest of the season, and now available in an extend edition on discs, the story follows Archer as he attempts to get over the grief of losing his wife. Along the way, our hero becomes a pirate king, as his friends try to find him. The miniseries guest stars the great Patrick Warburton and David Cross.

After that, we get ten more fantastic episodes. In "The Man From Jupiter," Archer is thrilled to meet Burt Reynolds (himself), until Archer realizes that Burt is banging Archer's mother, Malory (Jessica Walter). "El Contador" marks Cyril's (Chris Parnell) first mission as a field agent, while those back at the base take hallucinogenic drugs. In "The Limited," the team is on a train, and so is Cheryl's (Judy Greer) pet ocelot, which Archer has an intense fascination with. "Lo Scandalo" finds Malory bringing in her staff to help cover up a death in her apartment. "Bloody Ferlin" is a Ray (Adam Reed) story. The two-part season finale, "Space Race" guest stars Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad), brings back old foe Barry (Dave Willis), and takes the cast beyond the planet Earth.

On top of all these adventures, there are serial plot lines. For instance, Archer finds the best sex of his life in office worker Pam (Amber Nash), whom he is embarrassed to be seen with at first. This puts Archer in a tough spot, and makes him examine his priorities. But it also allows him to grow as a human being, and begin to get over his ill-fated bride.

As usual, there are some great extras on The Complete Third Season. The best parts are the three shorts. One features Archer's Gator 2 trailer, and what his co-workers think about it. Another is a blatant advertisement for the show's tie-in book, How to Archer, that gets enough laughs as Archer avoids recording the audio version that one doesn't care if it's trying to sell you something or not. (My opinion: buy the book.) Third is Archer's attempt at a cooking show, which also serves to champion the book.

Three episodes get audio commentary by the creator of Archer, Adam Reed, and several cast members. These may not be commentaries in the strictest sense of the word, because they do go on quite a few tangents. However, the people involved in this show have a wonderful dynamic, and they are very entertaining.

Sadly, the Comic Con 2012 special is just the opening bit, rather than the panel itself. Most shows shy away from including a full Q&A session on their DVD releases, either because they fear it will get boring, or because they want to keep the experience special to those who attended. I wish this were not the case, because I would really have liked to have seen more of this, and like most fans, will likely not get the chance to attend such events. But what is included is good.

In short, Archer The Complete Third Season is a great buy, and should provide plenty of enjoyment. It is available now.

Want to read some of my fiction? It's on my website, JeromeWetzel.com! Also, for the latest updates and article links, as well as commentary on episodes I don't fully review, please follow me on Twitter!

Article first posted on TheTVKing

Todd Margaret "Conclusion" bombs, literally

IFC's The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret brought its run permanently to an end this Friday after twelve episodes. The finale, entitled "Conclusion," finds Todd (David Cross) on trial for the various crimes he has committed over the show's two seasons. Brent Wilts (Will Arnett) acts as his (inept) lawyer, until things turn south, and he flees, leaving Todd alone. Alice (Sharon Horgan) finds the evidence needed to clear both her and Todd, but Todd accidentally blows her up with a truck bomb. Luckily for Todd, Dave's father (Mark Heap, Friday Night Dinner, Lark Rise to Candleford) shows up and calls off the entire scheme. Todd is allowed to leave England, but stupidly chooses North Korea, where he sets off an atomic bomb.

The end is a huge disappointment for a pretty funny series. Having written themselves into a corner, the show chooses to just blow things up, rather than try to solve or explain anything. In fact, just before the bomb goes off, the character of Doug Whitney (Spike Jonze, Being John Malkovich) muses that things don't make sense, and the story isn't tied up at all. It's a tongue in cheek joke, as if the writers, in an attempt to distract, are saying, "Yes, we know, we screwed up. Look! Explosion!"

There are not many series that would have the guts to do such a thing. And for that, The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret's "Conclusion" deserves some credit. Never has a television show thumbed its nose at convention and its audience in such a blatant, uncaring manner. Which totally fits the tone of the titular character, and most of the series. In that respect, it's a fitting way to finish things off. But that doesn't stop it from being ridiculous, and "Conclusion" will likely anger many fans, this reviewer included.

Yet, even before the final moments of the series, "Conclusion" isn't doing so well as an episode. Arguably the worst half hour of the show, much of the action takes place in a courtroom. The problem is, the events are completely unrealistic. While The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret isn't a show whose characters are much in touch with reality, there's always the feeling that the authorities will eventually catch up to those who deserve it, and things will be righted. Instead, under the watchful, controlling eye of Dave (Blake Harrison), who has orchestrated this entire thing to get even for Todd and Brent being rude to him in a bar, the judge sits back and lets the two make a mockery of the justice system. It's completely unacceptable, uncomfortable, and just plain doesn't make sense.

Worse still, the delightful Alice is killed off for no reason other than to follow up on a loose thread. And she looks perfectly fine and attractive in the morgue, rather than being a decimated, burnt, ripped apart mess, as she would be, considering the situation. Granted, at least the truck bomb is given some closure, unlike many other subplots, but how did it get from being parked at a restaurant closed down as a health hazard to being in front of the courthouse? Surely, the bomb would have been discovered and deactivated, and the truck impounded, when the department of health discover it next to The Molecule?

Not to mention, how and why is Todd recruited by North Korea, put in charge, and made to set off an atomic weapon, all in two days?

The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret does provide some great entertainment, such as the twist reveal that the character Jon Hamm (Mad Men) is playing in the show is himself. But because of such a faulty, lazy ending, it will not be remembered as a terrific series, if it is remembered at all. And that's a shame, because the first eleven episodes are really great. But screwing up the ending ruins the entire deal. Some may discover the show on DVD, but it will not be through recommendation or word of mouth from anyone who finishes watching it.

MORE: If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter! Click here to buy Todd Margaret DVDs and streaming episodes.

"Todd's Terrible Day Ends and His Next Terrible Day Begins" in The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret

     IFC's The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret returns this week for a second season. The first episode back, "Todd's Terrible Day Ends and His Next Terrible Day Begins," picks up right where season one leaves off. Alice (Sharon Horgan) angrily storms off from Todd (David Cross) and his 'rape kit.' Todd tries to fix things with Alice by confessing to some lies. But he also re-encounters the terrorists, who trick him, and he has to go on the run from the police, since they find a dead body in the Houses of Parliment where he is discovered hiding. Dave (Blake Harrison), now revealed to viewers as the secret rich mastermind behind the energy drink scheme, is only to happy to provide a destination - Leeds.

     The series is funny, and takes a bizarre new turn in season two with the Dave twist. Dave is now shown in a posh manor, attended by a very serious looking man servant (Mad Men's Jon Hamm). But what is Dave's goal? Obviously, Todd is just a lackey, as is his "boss" Brent (Will Arnett), but why is Dave using and manipulating them? And why does Dave want to go to Leeds so badly? It can't just be to expose Todd in one of his many untruths, as Dave sees right through those, and there's nothing to be gained by making Todd look worse than he already does. But Dave is also clearly enjoying the ride he is playing Todd into taking him on, so it adds a bit of fun to the show.

     Alice, meanwhile, is losing patience with Todd. Throughout season one, she frequently gets frustrated at him, and it's a little confusing that she is willing to keep Todd around. Yet, she must find something about him charming. Alice says she doesn't want to see Todd again, but of course, Todd shows up at her cafe to give her the drapes and make a fool of himself, again. At least this time he apologizes for some things, and even admits some of his claims he makes are false. As Todd justifies his fibs, one can't help but feeling a little sorry for him, which might be why Alice appears to soften slightly. However, given everything that Todd has already put her through, and the very few things he brings to the table, it is definitely time for Alice to permanently sever ties with the menace.

     Hamm is a wonderful addition to the cast. Having done 30 Rock and Childrens' Hospital previously, he is no strange to sitcom comedy. However, rather than going goofy, as he does in other shows, he keeps this new part pretty straight. Which is kind of cool, because it provides a different side altogether from his previous work. There is no telling what the writers have in store for his character, but given Hamm's talent, and the few gags in participates in this premiere episode, things look promising.

     Another face that is very welcome is that of Russ Tamblyn as Chuck Margaret, Todd's dad. Coming to England when he sees Todd in trouble on TV, he is game at tossing a sheet over his head and pretending to be a ghost, or babysitting Pam's (Sara Pascoe) brood while he crashes as her filthy excuse for an apartment. His easy going nature and willingness to do the ridiculous inform a lot about where Todd comes from. However, Chuck is also kindler and more compassionate, showing that Todd isn't solely a product of his upbringing. It's a neat insight, without being too obvious, and Tamblyn is hilarious in the role.

     Oddly, though the series has not yet gotten to the framing story of season one, with Todd in court, there is a new opening featuring Todd as a scared prisoner. When will The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret reach its earlier shown scenes, and how does Todd get out of trouble, only to quickly get back into it? There's plenty to anticipate moving forward.

     Watch The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret Fridays at 10:30 p.m. ET on IFC.

     If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter!

     Click here to buy Todd Margaret DVDs and streaming episodes.

Archer journeys to the "Heart of Archness"

     FX's Archer returns for a special three-part episode between seasons. The final part of "Heart of Archness" just aired, and here's what happened. Archer (H. Jon Benjamin) is devastated by the loss of his fiance, so he runs away. Malory (Jessica Walter) sends former love and employee Rip Riley (Patrick Warburton, Family Guy, The Venture Brothers, Seinfeld) to find her son, but Archer wrecks Rip's plane. They are rescued / captured by pirates, and Archer kills their leader, becoming the Pirate King. Until the pirates turn on him, and capture his second rescue team.

     It is unclear why FX granted Archer this special short run, but it is extremely welcome. The spy / workplace comedy is hard to get enough of, and "Heart of Archness" continues that same spirit, staying within the continuity of the series. Archer's exploits are completely typical of himself, and pinning the whole thing on a fleeting emotion he feels for a girl is brilliant. Of course, by the end, Archer doesn't even remember why things started. He has feelings, but they're not deep. As Archer tells Rip, he doesn't plan, he just goes with the flow. And that somehow always works out for him.

     The pirate plot is ripe with riffs for Archer to go on. First, Archer doesn't even believe pirates exist any more. Then he completely misunderstands their lifestyle and the need to plunder. Stangely enough, he also starts a lacrosse league. Archer lives in the moment, but doesn't have the ruthless streak that real pirates do. For them to have an island stronghold may be a bit of a stretch on reality, but it's much more entertaining than setting the story in the slums of a poor, African city.

     Besides the great Warburton, there is another fantastic guest star in this trilogy. David Cross (Arrested Development, The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret) voices Noah, a slave to the pirates, and soon, Archer's first mate. In true Archer fashion, bad luck befalls both Rip and Noah just by being around him. Even if the two never return again, though, it's been wonderful to have two such talented performers associated with the series, especially in multiple episodes. Even better, Archer continues to play on a long mystery by inquiring if Rip might be his father, a tempting, if unlikely, idea. Considering how many men Malory has slept with, this is one question that might never be answered.

     "Heart of Archness" does briefly touch on the ongoing Archer / Lana (Aisha Tyler) romance. As Lana comes to rescue Archer, Ray (Adam Reed) observes her seriousness and worry about her co-worker. Archer usually treats Lana like crap, which is why they aren't together, as despite Lana's feelings for him, she won't put up with his behavior. But in this episode, Archer shows a fondness for her, admitting she is his only friend. That's probably true, since Lana is the really the only one at ISIS that has ever seen a nicer side of Archer. Their relationship is complicated and sometimes subtle, changing the typical "will they? won't they?" formula. It's pretty cool that Archer does this, but a little sad that it takes an animated cable series to find this combination.

     In the B plot, Cyril (Chris Parnell) gets trashed and embezzles all of ISIS's money. He also sleeps with Pam (Amber Nash). When they wake up, he can't remember the password, and on Pam's suggestion, they get drunk and have sex again to remember it. While funny, it's really unnecessary to see Pam's naked body multiple times in this episode. Once is more than enough. A strategically placed blanket could have avoided nightmares for many fans. But this proves once again that Cyril is kind of a slut, so either way, it's incredibly hilarious.

     Thank you Archer for this three week diversion! Archer will return for a third season this winter on FX.

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     Click here to buy Blu-rays, DVDs, and streaming episodes of Archer.

Article first published as TV Review: Archer - "Heart of Archness" on Blogcritics.

TV Review: Running Wilde

     FOX's new sitcom Running Wilde hasn't gotten that much attention.  Despite following another new sitcom, Raising Hope which is a hit, and was the first show on network television picked up for a full season this year, not details on whether Running Wilde's run will be extended have merged.  Five episodes have aired, and I still haven't decided if I like it or not, though the show had plenty going for it, and I was initially excited.

     Starring Keri Russell (Felicity) and Will Arnett (Arrested Development) as Emmy and Steve, child sweethearts who were driven apart by the very different lives they lead.  Emmy was a maid's daughter for Steve's family.  Steve allowed his father to buy him off to give up Emmy.  Now adults, Steve wishes to have Emmy back, and Emmy is in a Peruvian rain forest trying to save a tribe from Steve's father's oil company.  When Steve invites Emmy to see him get a humanitarian award (which he is giving himself), she comes with her daughter, Puddle (Stefania Owen), in tow, though only so she can try to talk him into finally standing up to his father to help her cause.  By the way, there has been no mention yet as to who Puddle's father is, so it's certainly possible that she's Steve's, but Steve is clueless enough to never ask.  Or perhaps the backstory timeline for Steve and Emmy's relationship doesn't come close to Puddle's inception.  Either way, it'd be nice to have a little clarity there.

     By the end of the pilot, Puddle has convinced her mother to stay and live in Steve's treehouse so that Puddle can go to school and lead a normal life.  Emmy doesn't need much convincing, because even though she keeps shutting down Steve's romantic overtures, she is clearly very fond of him.  Plus, he's become her latest project, as she tries to mold him into what she considers a decent human being.  Oddly, Puddle narrates the series and almost seems billed as the star, but doesn't have a lot to do past causing her mother to move in the pilot.  This is definitely Arnett and Russell's show.

     Last week's episode clearly was the second episode, even though it was aired fifth, dealing with Emmy and Puddle first settling in.  Perhaps it was held back because it wasn't that funny, and other episodes aired early inspired more laughter.  I don't know, but I wasn't impressed.  I have chuckled at moments in the series, but not so much this past week.

     Of course, three people do not make a show.  Steve has two people working for him that are part of the starring cast: Migo (Mel Rodriguez), who is Steve's friend, even though he skims some of the fortune, and Lunt (Robert Michael Morris), the old queen that tutored him.  Both are good for a few punch lines, but have yet to have any real plot or depth.  Both were recast after the pilot, and Lunt's character originally had a different name and was a woman.  Fairing slightly better is Steve's neighbor / rival / best friend / foil, Fa'ad (Peter Serafinowicz).  Though Fa'ad was an enemy in the pilot and this past week's episode, other installments have showed him more as a friend.  Sure, a superficial friend, but Steve is just as shallow.  The two connect because of similar upbrings and attitudes, and I prefer it when Fa'ad is not just trying to one up Steve.

    Interestingly enough, Will Arnett's Arrest Development co-star David Cross plays recurring character Andy (also a recast from the Running Wilde original pilot), Emmy's fiance.  Arnett is also playing a supporting role on David Cross's new show, which is currently airing on IFC, The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret, as Cross's boss.  The two are wonderful together, and thankfully that has been used on Running Wilde somewhat, though not a lot.

     The jury is still out on whether this show will last, or whether it deserves to.  If you'd like to watch, good luck.  Running Wilde  has been running Tuesday nights at 9:30 on FOX, however, this week Raising Hope is doing a one hour special episode, so Wilde does not appear on the schedule.  It will be showing a rerun at 12:30 Saturday night (Sunday morning), and FOX's web site lists it's timeslot at Saturday at midnight, which is not a good sign.  It is unknown if it will return to Tuesdays, or burn off the remaining episodes on Saturdays, or just disappear all together.

For frequent mini-reviews and occasional tv news, follow Jerome on Twitter.

The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret

     The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret is a wonderful new show, airing on IFC  in the United States.  If you don't get IFC, as I don't, it is also available via Amazon on Demand digital video download, or from the iTunes store.  The show is set in London, England, and also airs in the UK.  As such, only six episodes have been ordered, typical for a UK series.  Two have aired, and they are very, very funny.

     The show stars David Cross (Arrested Development, Running Wilde) as Todd Margaret, a temp at an energy drink company in America.  When Brent Wilts (Will Arnett, Arrested Development, Running Wilde) buys and visits the company, he sees Todd in a rare moment of confidence.  As such, he interviews, and believing Todd's lies, promotes Todd to run a new office he wants to open in London.  GIven a large salary and a big expense account, Todd flies to the UK.  He arrives, only to discover the office he is running has a mere one employee named Dave (Blake Harrison, The Inbetweeners).  Todd continues to tell whatever lies he percieves will help him, and bluster around like he's important.  It seems that Dave sees through this, and so becomes an enabler, who likes to get Todd into hotter and hotter water.  Oh, and the energy drink is actually pretty toxic.

     In between ridiculous circumstances that left Todd ever more soiled and scarred, he pursues a romantic relationship with the owner of a local cafe, Alice (Sharon Horgan, Big Babies, Pulling).  Alice is hard to read, because she goes back and forth between being furious at Todd's antics, and somehow finding him sympathetic and charming.  It's not clear if she's sees through his crap, but if she does, she overlooks it.  Todd also keeps talking about feeling guilty about a girlfriend back home, who really, he just had a one night stand with.  Played by Amber Tamblyn (The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, Joan of Arcadia), we have gotten a number of short scenes revealing that she isn't thinking about Todd at all.

     The episodes are framed by an opening with Todd in a courtoom, persumably charged with all sorts of crimes that he racks up during his time in London, although the list seems a little harsh, as while Todd is bumbling, he isn't malicious.  At the end of each, after the credits, we catch up on Todd's Portland, Oregon apartment, where his cat has died, and the place is being overrun by wild animals.

     The whole thing is so ridiculous, I can't help but frequently laughing out loud.  Cross has proven himself adept at comedy, and in the series that he created, he is at his best.  As a viewer, I do feel a bit bad for him, although he brings most of his troubles on himself.  With only four episodes left, I'm anxious to find out how everything comes together.  I don't know if this would work as a 22 episodes a season series, as Todd has already effectively destroyed his life in just two half hours.  It's probably better that it's a limited run.  If you haven't already, please check out The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret.

For frequent mini-reviews and occasional tv news, follow Jerome on Twitter.