HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER Skims Other Side of the Story

Article first published as HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER Skims Other Side of the Story on TheTVKing.

For its 200th episode this week, CBS's How I Met Your Mother brushes over the past eight years from The Mother's (Cristin Milioti) perspective. In the installment, entitled "How Your Mother Met Me," we see where she was at the beginning of the show, how her path crossed with Ted's on multiple occasions, and the gaps where the narration previously mentioned her existing are filled in. It's a quick skim of her history.

The problem is how brief it is. The Mother jumps from one thing to the next, skipping years between scenes. It feels very disjointed, and there isn't really time to invest in any of the story's scenarios before it moves on. Even the theme song seems weak, making it more about one character than an ensemble, even though The Mother's story is clearly set up for a larger cast, though I would argue The Mother could carry a show on her own. This really needed to be multiple episodes, or have a narrower focus.

One thread that stands out in "How Your Mother Met Me" is of The Mother's broken heart. Her boyfriend dies in the beginning, and it takes quite a lot of time passing before she wants to date again. When she finally opens herself up and makes a relationship work for two years, it then abruptly ends. This is a sad story, and one that does touch the viewer emotionally, but because it's just one of a number of different elements, it isn't fully fleshed out.

The ending, when The Mother declines the marriage proposal, should be a really great moment. She tearfully talks to her dead boyfriend, and we're left in suspense of her answer, which ends up being a twist. But because we don't have enough of the back story and don't really see The Mother develop throughout her journey, it feels flat. I teared up, but not nearly as much as I should have given the actress's amazing performance.

Now, this could be solved in the potential spin-off, How I Met Your Dad. Should that go to series, all of the gaps can be appropriately filled in and we'll get the depth The Mother deserves. But I do worry that "How Your Mother Met Me" really limits the arcs of that series, as now there are a fair number of dots that must be connected at set points. And if it gets canceled early, we're robbed of the full tale, this outline preventing any quick tie-ups after only a couple of seasons.

Another problem for a potential spin-off is how the supporting characters are worked into this episode. The Mother's best friend, Kelly (Ahna O'Reilly, The Help), has series regular written all over her. But others, like Cindy (Rachel Bilson), Darren (Andrew Rannells), and the long-term boyfriend, show up much later in the timeline. Who knows what the availability of those actors will be in five years? It's a treacherous corner to be painted into. Unless that show unfolds completely non-linearly, which could be cool, but also very difficult to do well. Or if The Mother and Kelly are the only main characters.

I'd like to analyze the episode on its own merits, because I did really enjoy the half hour, finally getting to see more of Minlioti, who is excellent. I also really, really loved when Ted (Josh Radnor) hears her singing and falls for her, one of the best scenes of the whole series. But it's hard to separate this away from a possible expanded franchise. Should How I Met Your Dad never come to fruition, "How Your Mother Met Me" will be a decent entry, if a bit rushed in pacing. However, knowing what could be happening, it seems unwise to play this out in this manner.

How I Met Your Mother continues to wind down its final season Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

HART OF DIXIE Has Heart and Charm, But No Features

Article first published as DVD Review: 'Hart of Dixie - The Complete Second Season' on Blogcritics.

The CW’s Hart of Dixie is a charming, fluffy drama about a big city doctor who moves to a small town. Infused with quirky townspeople and traditions, sort of like Gilmore Girls, season two finds the good doc finally fitting into her surroundings and peers in the South. Personal relationships flare and falter, romance is rocky, and the recurring cast swells.

As season two begins, Dr. Zoe Hart (Rachel Bilson) is sleeping with Wade Kinsella (Wilson Bethel), having turned down George Tucker’s (Scott Porter) offer of a relationship until George can get over Lemon Breeland (Jaime King). George soon moves on with Wade’s ex, Tansy Truitt (Mircea Monroe, Episodes), after a brief fling with Shelby (Laura Bell Bundy, How I Met Your Mother), who then begins dating Lemon’s father, Brick (Tim Matheson). Lemon’s ex, Lavon Hayes (Cress Williams), begins seeing his former beau, Ruby Jeffries (Golden Brooks, Girlfriends), though Lemon’s best friend, Annabeth Nass (Kaitlyn Black) has a crush on Lavon. So, basically, everyone eventually dates everyone else.

As with many dramas, the main character, Zoe, has a basic choice between two men, Wade and George, and that is the primary romance that most viewers care about. George is the more sensible choice, but Hart of Dixie decides to try out Zoe with the bad boy first, saving George for another season, though most will assume that George and Zoe will be together eventually, if not in the end.

Wade is more than a scoundrel, of course. He is a womanizer at the start, but actually really likes Zoe, and tries to change his ways for her, which he is at least partially successful in doing. Zoe doesn’t see that at first, though, and one of her faults is how she can be judgmental. It takes her a long time to realize that she’s mistreating Wade and start to give him a real chance.

Besides the main characters listed above, there are many memorable citizens in the town of Bluebell, who occasionally have their own plots that intersect with the larger story, which helps round out the world. Dorky Tom Long (Ross Philips) and hyper waitress Wanda Lewis (Mallory Moye) find true love early in the show’s run, and have quite the visually exciting wedding. Dash (Reginald VelJohnson) is often seen running the local events, and Lemon’s materialistic sister, Magnolia (Claudia Lee), causes trouble.

Most of the acting is campy, but that’s in keeping with the light-hearted tone of the series. Bilson is goofy, in a good way, fully committing to the part, and the supporting cast is fun. Hart of Dixie won’t make many’s “must-see” list, but it’s an enjoyable way to pass the time.

And occasionally, it does delve into some more serious fare. There’s a really moving bit with Wade’s father, Crazy Earl (Christopher Curry), in the Christmas episode, which rises above the typical quality of the drama. Lemon also shows real growth over the course of the season, slowly becoming less annoying and more of a strong, self-sufficient character. These elements are why I continue to watch Hart of Dixie, because if it ever realizes its full potential, and moves past the constantly fluctuating pairings, it could really be something. Even if it doesn’t mature, though, it’s not a bad program.


As one might expect, the season finale drops some big stuff, changing the landscape for season three, though surely everything will return to normal not too far into the junior year. Since the show came back on the air a week ago, watching the DVD now will allow you to jump right in, without the long wait to see what happens next.

The Complete Second Season does have all twenty-two episode from last year on five discs, but sports not a single special feature. That’s the sort of release some old shows without a ton of anticipation may do, but it’s baffling that a currently-running series would dare not offer any extras for their fans. Weirder still, the cast has released some very humorous stuff online, proving they are worthy of featurettes and shorts, but none of which is included here. Combined with a very simplistic menu system, that looks old and boring, it’s not a strong DVD contender.

Hart of Dixie The Complete Second Season will be released this Tuesday, October 15th.

The last post of Gossip Girl

The CW aired the final Gossip Girl episode this week. Entitled "New York, I Love You XOXO," the episode wraps up the Bart Bass (Robert John Burke) storyline, reveals who is behind the titular character's website, and gives a glimpse into the future for all the main characters. It's an hour of cameos and romance.

Gossip Girl has always been scandalous and overly dramatic. And yet, I feel like some parts of this episode go just a little too far. One can be shocking without the plot holes, and this series usually is. The scene where Bart falls to his death is not helped by the hokey music, and making the finale A plot about some scheme to quickly wed Blair (Leighton Meester) to Chuck (Ed Westwick) so that she doesn't have to testify against him, when he did nothing wrong in the first place, is kind of ridiculous.

That being said, anything that gets a ring on Blair's ring, instead of around her neck, is good stuff. Fans of the series have been waiting for Blair and Chuck to finally get together for a very long time. Knowing they were promised to one another, but having to wait because of their careers, is sheer torture. "New York, I Love You XOXO" has to see them them walk down the aisle, and it did, with enough style to satisfy.

The wedding scene itself is touching. Do I wish the other drama wasn't forced upon it? Yes. But at least all of the characters pull together, and manage to make it happen before the police can show up to arrest Chuck. We get to see everyone celebrating and happy.

I also have mixed feelings on the outing of Dan (Penn Badgley) as Gossip Girl herself. He is a writer, sure, and has the talent and motivation to accomplish such a feat. However, there is a vague feeling that it doesn't quite add up. I would have to go back and re-watch the series to pinpoint when it doesn't work, and at some point, I will. But my first impression is, while this serves this particular point of the story very well, it may not add up in earlier seasons. And I think the flashbacks are mainly present in this episode to try to give a feeling of continuity.

The other characters' reactions to Dan's outing are completely in character and fantastic. Nate (Chace Crawford), who is already established as a good guy at heart, of course will forgive Dan when he is handing the story to Nate, saving Nate's beloved Spectator. Serena (Blake Lively) has also always been understanding, and her clear affection for Dan, at an all-time high after reading the nice things he wrote about her, make her susceptible to letting it slide. Chuck can appreciate a game well played, and Blair is, well, Blair.

Rufus (Matthew Settle) handles the news the best of anyone, because his concerns are real, and, I assume, the show's way of trying to address any past inconsistencies. Being mad at Dan about everything that happened with Jenny (Taylor Momsen) is exactly what Rufus should be, and allows someone to be angry, since Dan's friends can't be.

I love, love, love that everyone from Mayor Bloomberg (cameoing as himself) to Blair think that Dorota (Zuzanna Szadkowski) might have been Gossip Girl. After all, what fan hasn't suspected Blair's handmaiden is the guilty party from time to time, even though her apparent loyalty would make this the ultimate betrayal? And her wonderful bits that pepper the series continue through "New York, I Love You XOXO" when she has a very surprised Jack (Desmond Harrington) make her a drink.

The other reaction shots are great, too, as the secret is exposed amid a wave of appearances by past characters. These include Juliet (Katie Cassidy), Lola (Ella Rae Peck), Vanessa (Jessica Szohr), and even an almost unrecognizable Jenny. What a great way to fit the faces of earlier seasons in, without shoehorning them into a story in which they wouldn't fit! It's satisfying for the fans, makes sense for the series, and provides a great way to mark this major revelation.

One thing that is being talked about is the teasing cut scene where Kristen Bell, playing herself, delivers some of the same infamous phrasing she has been speaking for years as the voice of Gossip Girl, narrating Gossip Girl. It's fun little bit with another CW star, Rachel Bilson (Hart of Dixie), also playing herself, and a tongue in cheek reference for fans. This is all well and good, and I very much enjoyed it, until Bell turns and winks at the camera at the end. That takes it just a step too far, making what could have been an amazing scene only a very good one. We get the joke without the wink. No need for ham.

Then there's the ending, set five years later. There is a lot to praise this scene for. Knowing that it takes Dan and Serena five more years to get married is a bit disappointing, but not exactly surprising, considering. Given their track record, they probably broke up three times before getting hitched. I also greatly enjoyed seeing Chuck happier than he's ever been, glimpsing Dorota playing with the next generation, and Nate being successful, even if he hasn't found a girl yet.

The other elements of that scene, the ones that didn't make sense to me, such as Georgina (Michelle Trachtenberg) and Jack being invited (though I adore the thought of the evil duo as a couple), and Lily (Kelly Rutherford) ending up with William (William Baldwin), can be overlooked. After all, we know that relationships shift, and without seeing what happens in the intervening five years, these are plausible circumstances. They just aren't ones that are really telegraphed in the episodes leading up to "New York, I Love You XOXO."

Does anyone else want a two hour TV movie leading up to Dan and Serena's big day? Because I sure do!

Gossip Girl is a series that broke new ground, set trends, and was a highly addictive prime time soap for a good many years. I greatly appreciate the work everyone involved put in, and found the vast majority of it extremely entertaining. Even if the series finale stumbled a few times, it hit the needed emotional beats, and did not spoil my love of the show. For that, I thank it, and will definitely miss my Gossip Girl.

XOXO

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

Hart of Dixie falls to pieces

The CW's Hart of Dixie ended its freshman run last spring with Dr. Zoe Hart (Rachel Bilson) in bed with Wade (Wilson Bethal), whom she finds annoying, but who has harbored a crush on her for some time. Then George (Scott Porter) cancels his wedding to be with Zoe, leaving the good doctor in quite the pickle.

Season two picks up the next morning with "I Fall to Pieces." George is disappointed to hear that Zoe needs some time to think, as she does admit to having certain feelings for Wade, too. Wade, for his part, falls back into his immature ways, pretending Zoe is just a one-night stand for him and insulting her, and professing not to care if she dates George. Zoe is torn, knowing Wade is just covering for insecurity, but also not sure George is ready to jump into another relationship so soon after his long-term one ends.

Hart of Dixie solves this problem much as many shows before it have. Zoe chooses no one. She wants George to heal and Wade to grown up before getting seriously involved with either one. The thing is, though, no one is perfect, and many men have trouble articulating, or even knowing, their feelings. While both could definitely be in better positions than they are, Zoe may be waiting for something that will never happen.

It's also a cop out. It leaves the series room to try each of the three characters with more people before settling back into its love triangle. Television dramas must keep the drama going, and hooking up the main character with one of two love interests so early in the show's run kind of shoots itself in the foot in terms of keeping tension alive. So instead, the writers frustrate fans all over by providing no resolution.

Now, both Wade and George would make decent partners for Zoe. But until she figures out which one she wants, she can't commit to either. So Zoe's lack of choice is as much about her as it is either of the guys.

Interesting, Zoe's flirtations with Wade continue post-announcement. Wade may just be happy to still be in the game, assuming he had lost to George before even getting started. But knowing Wade plays the casual hand well, picking neither may open Zoe up to more casual sex with Wade.

Meanwhile, for Lemon (Jaime King), being dumped by George may be the best thing that has ever happened to her. She is a strong woman, and she discovered that while George was away. When he returned to Bluebell, she lost some of that, and by marrying George without ever leaving her father's (Tim Matheson) house, she risks any chance of true independence. So Lemon is sure to have a great year post-George, figuring out for herself what she is capable of.

The fact that Zoe is the one who helps set Lemon on this path is nice because there should be a warming up between the two of them. They are very different people, and probably won't ever be besties, but they have enough in common that they should be able to make peace. I look forward to it.

Also, Lavon (Cress Williams) is surprised by the arrival of his ex, Ruby (Golden Brooks, Girlfriends), back to town. Ruby intends to stay, throwing Lavon for a loop, and dredging up old feelings. This should keep Lavon away from Lemon for awhile, thus negating any interference he might have with her plot.

The only thing that rings weird in "I Fall to Pieces" is why Ruby becomes friendly so quickly with Zoe. Zoe is clearly self-centered and using Ruby to bounce rambling off of. Sure, Ruby might welcome the chance to stop by Lavon's house, but even setting that aside, it's like Hart of Dixie is forcing an instant friendship between Ruby and Zoe. For what purpose? Why not just let a friendship develop naturally?

Hart of Dixie airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on the CW.

f you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter! Check out my website, JeromeWetzel.com! First posted on TheTVKing

Disaster strikes on "The Big Day" in the Hart of Dixie

Deciding to stay in Bluebell, as Zoe Hart (Rachel Bilson) does in the penultimate episode of the season, proves harder than expected as "The Big Day" arrives on Hart of Dixie. She stays because of all the bonds she has formed. But one of those bonds, George Tucker (Scott Porter), who she cares a little more than she should for, is about to marry Lemon Breeland (Jaime King). And this is not a day for Zoe to hang around the town, which is totally devoted to the nuptials.

So she borrows Lavon's (Cress Williams) vehicle and heads off. Circumstances force her to take Wade (Wilson Bethel) with her. This is good, because they have some unresolved issues to work out anyway. Wade is jealous over Zoe's feelings for George, and Zoe hasn't told Wade that she knows about his own romantic notions. Of course, the pair is soon trapped in the rain together, seeking shelter in a barn, where they have it out, once and for all.

Zoe and Wade's hookup has been a long time coming. From the onset of Hart of Dixie, there is little doubt that the two will spend some time in a relationship together. And while the way it goes down may be a little cliche, Hart of Dixie uses its Southern charm to make it every bit as enjoyable as the rest of the show. Even Bilson's sometimes outlandish acting style and barely expressive features can't help but be caught up in the moment. In fact, one would be hard pressed not to root for these two. But we'll return to that in a moment.

For those following along at home, you might realize that both a wedding and a storm have been mentioned. To make matters worse, this wedding, Lemon's dream ceremony, is supposed to be outside. George does everything he can to salvage the day, accepting his neighbors' help, while moving the ceremony into an old firehouse. In fact, he even seems to make peace with Lavon, who goes out of his way to assist, trying to make up for his tryst with Lemon.

But it's to no avail. George's efforts begin to seem more and more desperate, and while a storybook wedding looks like it could eek out at some point, the day actually gets worse as it goes on. George is forced to confront the real reason why he is pushing this wedding forward so hard, determined to get it over with. This is first hinted at in the silly dream sequence at the beginning of "The Big Day," which hangs over the rest of the hour. And once he does admit these doubts to himself, there is simply no way that he can go through with marrying Lemon.

It's actually a bit disappointing when George breaks it off with Lemon to go be with Zoe, who is in the midst of carnal relations with Wade. George kisses Zoe without realizing what is going on, and Wade also stays in the dark.Which leaves Zoe with a big decision to make. She has pined for George for a long time, but kicking Wade to the curb now would be nearly unforgivable. I'd like to say I know which man Zoe will choose, but I don't.

George walking out on the wedding seems dumb, a forced move merely to keep the romantic triangles alive. This sucks because, over this first season of Hart of Dixie, Lemon has become a sympathetic character who deserves to get the man she loves. It would have been mighty brave of the writers to marry the pair off one season in.

On the other hand, Wade seems good for Zoe, and after sleeping with him, it's doubtful that Zoe will end things so quickly, even to be with George. She's not that shallow, and doing this would make her completely unlikable. However, shows have done worse things and the characters have recovered. Eventually. So we'll see.

While all of the shipper drama is fun, and reason enough to watch Hart of Dixie, there is another great element. "The Big Day" sees the entire population lending a hand to George and Lemon. The side characters, especially Tom (Ross Philips), have become pretty developed and occur more regularly, with more being added as the season goes on. The draw of this town is a Gilmore Girls-esque gallery of these interesting individuals, and the sleepy village that brings them together. It's small town life in a way that probably doesn't exist very many places anymore in reality, but it makes for wonderful television. This is the real heart of Hart of Dixie, and what sets it apart from other shows.

Hart of Dixie has been renewed for a second season, and will return to the CW next fall.

If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter! Catch up on streaming episodes of Hart of Dixie. Article first published as Disaster strikes on "The Big Day" in the Hart of Dixie on TheTVKing.com

Deep in the 'Hart of Dixie'

Hart of Dixie's latest installment is "Heart to Hart." Zoe's (Rachel Bilson) dad, Dr. Ethan Hart (Gary Cole, The Good Wife, Office Space), comes to town to perform surgery. Zoe is determined to tell him off for his boorish behavior towards her, but is thrown off balance when he suggests that they be friends, since he is not her biological father. This doesn't go well, erupting at a dinner that Lemon (Jaime King) throws the pair in an attempt to befriend Zoe, thus keeping her enemy close.


What makes a father? Is it DNA, or being there to raise a child? Most people would probably say the latter, but there is no denying that this is a complicated issue. Zoe and Ethan have to deal with it head on in "Heart to Hart." He still feels paternal instincts towards her, but is deeply hurt by his wife's betrayal. Zoe has also been lied to, and it is unfair for Ethan to take his anger out on her. But Ethan's behavior can somewhat be forgiven for the pain it causes him to see Zoe, and what she reminds him of. So the two just have to talk through things, and try to redefine their relationship based on what each wants and can handle.

Zoe and Ethan decide to try to keep their father/daughter bond intact. After all, neither one of them are to blame for what happened. Maybe Ethan doesn't handle the news well, but he's certainly trying to make up for it in "Heart to Hart." After all, he did fly across the country to do Zoe a favor, and that says a lot about how much he cares for her. And she will forgive him because he is the father she grows up loving, and that isn't something easy to shake.

The only possible complaint about Cole being cast in this role for Hart of Dixie is that his schedule may not stay open enough for frequent appearances. Cole is an in-demand actor for a reason, and has recurring parts on several series already. It seems like it can only be a matter of time until he finds a starring role. He definitely deserves one. And that would leave Zoe missing her daddy a whole heck of a lot in the future.

Lemon's plot to make Zoe her best friend fails miserably, not least because Zoe sees right through it. She's not stupid. What Lemons fails to realize is that her best-planned schemes rarely work in Hart of Dixie. Genuine sincerity has much better results, and perhaps an honest discussion of her concerns with Zoe would be the right move. Lemon may not like Zoe's answers, but at least each would know where the other stands, and there would be no need for trickery.

Might Lemon and George's (Scott Porter) engagement really be threatened by Zoe? That depends, but it's not because Zoe is trying to steal George away. Sure, she's interested in him, but she is not making any moves, not trying to ruin anything. If George dumps Lemon for Zoe it will be because he wants to, not because he was manipulated. And that is something that Lemon can't guard against. All she can do is love and take care of George and hope that is enough for him. If his heart belongs to someone else, does she truly want him anyway?

That's easier said than done. Lavon (Cress Williams) is also struggling with a similar problem, being in love with Lemon, who wants to marry George. He keeps trying to get Lemon back, and it's just not going to work. Like George, Lemon will marry who she wants to marry. She cannot be talked into switching men, and Lavon's attempts to do so are useless. The best that he can do is confess his feelings and hope she returns them. If she doesn't, well, that's her loss.

Of course, now that George has seen Lavon kiss Lemon, much will be out in the open. Will George still want Lemon once he learns of her past relationship with Lavon? That might just change George's perspective, leaving many of the relationships of the series more fluid than before. Given that Hart of Dixie is a drama largely made up of various romantic entanglements and developments, the makeup of couples is bound to be different before the series heads into season two.

Another player in this tangled web is Wade (Wilson Bethel), who sits out of the game in "Heart to Hart." He has some real feelings for Zoe, and she may like him back, but the two have yet to connect. Wade seems a bit rebellious and untamed, but he is a good guy with some serious heart, and that should serve him well in the end. Considering that girls often go for the bad boy, it's kind of interesting that Zoe hasn't started something with him yet, especially given how much fun she has when they clash. But a pairing between the two will surely happen soon enough.

In "Heart to Hart," instead of chasing Zoe, Wade participates in a cocktail contest at the Rammer Jammer. He is an expert mixologist, at least according to Lavon, but Wade throws the game and lets Shelley (Deborah S. Craig) win. He tells Lavon that it's to preserve his best recipes for when he's ready to open his own bar, but there's some doubt about that. Perhaps Wade would like to start his own business, which he would probably be good at, even though he doesn't express an interest in such a thing until now. Or perhaps he's just a nice guy who sees how desperate Shelley is for a victory. Or maybe a bit of both.

Only slightly confusing is why George and Wade are so attracted to Zoe. Bilson is a competent actor, but doesn't have a great deal of differentiation in her expressions, which makes her character kind of hard to like at first. Sure, she's smart and somewhat charming, but her severe face isn't exactly every man's dream.
And after all, Lemon can be warm, and tries hard to make her man happy. Hart of Dixie has made Lemon sympathetic, too, because she is part of the ensemble, and being pure evil is boring. It would be folly to not develop Lemon as a complex character. But because Lemon has been allowed this growth, is Zoe such a better catch?


Because of its charm and humor, as well as heart, Hart of Dixie has become a must-watch prime time soap. Catch it Mondays at 9 p.m. ET on the CW.

If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter! Catch up on streaming episodes of Hart of Dixie. Article first published as TV Review: Hart of Dixie - "Heart to Hart" on Blogcritics.

Hart of Dixie celebrates "Hairdos & Holidays"

     The CW's Hart of Dixie ends their fall run with the only vaguely Christmas-themed episode, "Hairdos & Holidays." Zoe (Rachel Bilson) ratchets up her rivalry with Lemon (Jaime King) to a new level as she mentors Rose (McKaley Miller, The Gates) in a beauty pageant against Lemon's sister, Magnolia (Claudia Lee, Zeke and Luthor). Though Lemon does respond to the challenge, she is distracted by memories of getting together with Lavon (Cress Williams) a year ago, which viewers learn happen as Lemon gets startling new about her mother (Meredith Monroe, Dawson's Creek, Criminal Minds). Unfortunately for Lemon, Lavon does not want to be reminded of any of it.

     Things between Lemon and Zoe seem to have cooled somewhat, so "Hairdos and Holidays" is a tad bit puzzling. Lemon is no longer spending all her effort trying to run Zoe out of town, or even getting upset about Zoe spending time with George (Scott Porter). Lemon still doesn't like Zoe, but she accepts her more. Instead, this conflict is kicked off by Zoe, who is jealous of Lemon's relationship with George, whom she likes. Lemon responds, but with her deep emotional plot underpinning this episode, she just doesn't feel fully committed, which makes the showdown lackluster, at best. Perhaps this story could have been better served if Zoe had some random guest star to square off with, instead of forcing Lemon into a place where she doesn't belong.

     Lemon's backstory is quite intriguing. Fans know Lemon's mother left long ago. In "Hairdos and Holidays," it is revealed that she likely did so because she was bored of being a housewife. Yet, when Lemon discovers her living nearby, that's what she is again. One cannot help but feel sympathy towards Lemon, who has been replaced, and feels justifiably confused and betrayed.

     Where is George as Lemon and Lavon bond over the mother issues? He isn't shown in any of the flashbacks. Did he gets back from New York so soon before Hart of Dixie begins? That could explain why Lemon must spill her guts to someone other than him. It's also understandable that they are deeply connected, he having helped her through some serious drama. But that is still no excuse for her cheating on George. However, if she and George were on a break at the time, it would be OK. Which is why there needs to be some explanation of George's place in these flashbacks.

     Lavon still cares very deeply for Lemon, wanting to win her back. George doesn't seem all that satisfied with Lemon, and is taken in by Zoe, so why not pair the foursome up in this way? It would seem likely this would occur save for the fifth main character, wild card Wade (Wilson Bethel). Might he win Zoe over before George becomes single, making George the odd man out when the dust settles? Whatever happens, in a series like Hart of Dixie, pairings are bound to shift many times over the run of the series, so the weight of hooking up between any two given characters is lessened.

     In "Hairdos and Holidays" Wade tries to help George find a Christmas tree for Lemon. Wade encourgaes George to unknowingly steal such a tree from an ex-girlfriend's father, which lands the two of them in jail. It's an amusing plot, giving the two guys time to hash out some of their feelings for Zoe. It also lets Lavon overhear George's declaration that he will be with Lemon forever. Other than the fun interchanges, though, it's a little weak. The father just drops the charges and lets them keep the tree? Why? He clearly hates Wade. More explanation is needed.

     Honestly, despite the bad writing in "Hairdos and Holidays," Hart of Dixie is a charming, engaging drama. Bilson is not believable at all, but the rest of the cast is really good. The show is worth your time, for the most part.

     Hart of Dixie will return to the CW in January.

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

     Catch up on streaming episodes of Hart of Dixie.

Hart of Dixie is "In Havoc and in Heat"

     The newest episode of the CW's Hart of Dixie, "In Havoc and in Heat," finds a heat wave striking Bluebell. The residents lose inhibition, and begin to act a bit crazier than normal. Zoe Hart (Rachel Bilson) resists, but is soon overcome by her attraction to Wade Kinsella (Wilson Bethel). Similarly, Lemon Breeland (Jaime King) has trouble keeping her mind off of Lavon Hayes (Cress Williams), who she spies on a date while trying to create the perfect evening for George Tucker's (Scott Porter) parents.

     On a quick side note, Nancy Travis's presence in Hart of Dixie is already missed sorely. Please let Last Man Standing be canceled quickly so she can return!

     Having never lived in the south, it's impossible to know if this heat wave effect is legitimate. Based on personal experience, it's odd that the characters are wild and drunk-like, rather than slow and sluggish. Is this real? Or is this just something created for a television drama? After all, none of the people on screen can stop talking about the effect, mentioning it over and over again throughout the hour. Even if the phenomenon exists, it's overdone in "In Havoc and in Heat." A little less heavy dialogue about it would have made for a better episode.

     While still not a fan of Bilson, who seems to be trying too hard to express emotion, the character of Zoe in Hart of Dixie is progressing nicely. Upon arriving in town, she is reviled and pressured to leave by many of the citizens, most notably Lemon and Lemon's father, Brick (Tim Matheson). Brick even finds a clause that will get Zoe removed as his partner if she can't bring in enough business. If he can run her off, he gets the entire practice to himself. This is a major focus of the first few episodes, even after viewers get a chance to witness Zoe doing selfless things, and really helping patients.

     But those things have eased up. Brick isn't giving Zoe too much trouble anymore. Sure, there's the token grumbling when Zoe pulls him from dinner to help her with a mentally unstable woman in "In Havor and in Heat." But he goes, and together, they solve the case. In fact, he seems less resistant to working with her every week. They are beginning to act as a team, a welcome respite from their bickering. Brick tosses Zoe patients. He doesn't seem to be following up on the clause mentioned above. It seems Zoe may finally be settling into Bluebell, and not at such a risk for being run out of town so much anymore.

     Lemon still hates Zoe with a vengeance, but that is probably just jealously. After all, Zoe is stealing away part of Lemon's father's business. Lemon's fiance, George, won't stay away from Zoe, even after being expressly told to. Lavon makes her breakfast. The men most important to Lemon, the ones she cares about, are sharing their attentions with the new doc. Zoe is not just the central character in Hart of Dixie, but also a fixture in these men's lives already. Perhaps one day Lemon and Zoe can be friends, but not until Lemon learns to share a little better.

     Speaking, of Lemon's inability to share, she needs to pick one man and stick with him. Presumably her main squeeze is George, and yet she can't seem to let go of Lavon, who it is hinted at is her ex. Lavon says she ended things between them six months ago, prior to the series start, but Lemon is already planning a wedding with George. Was there overlap? Either way, watching Lemon get flustered when seeing Lavon with Didi (Nadine Velazquez, My Name is Earl, The League) reveals that the blonde is not over the town's mayor. Given that this is a drama, it would not be surprising if Lavon and Lemon are heading towards a renewal of their relationship, especially if it comes on the eve, or just before, Lemon's wedding to George.

     Which will make George's mom (Ilene Graff, Mr. Belvedere) happy. She takes an instant liking to Zoe, unlike her obvious distaste for Lemon. Lemon has her faults, but she is working very hard to please Mrs. Tucker. Why does Mrs. T. hate Lemon so much? Is it the airs Lemon puts up? Her insincerity? If this is the case, surely she can see just how much Lemon is trying? It's nice that the woman likes Zoe, as hopefully Zoe and George will date, for awhile, at least. But her hating Lemon while Lemon is showing her absolute best self is sad, and makes Mrs. Tucker an unlikeable character.

     George may have some competition for Zoe. At first, Zoe sees her neighbor, Wade, as a pesky annoyance. Viewers know that Wade is sweet on Zoe, but it's not in his personality to show it in the traditional way. This may be why it takes a little while for Zoe to start to see Wade as a potential love interest. Yet once she does in "In Havoc and in Heat," and they share the moment on the porch, before the rain cools down Zoe's head, it will be hard to go back. She even smiles at him after, when he catches her skinny dipping. This is one cat that will not be put back in the bag.

     The only question now is, will George or Wade get to Zoe first? Most likely, it will be at the same time, and she will have to choose. But her choice is anyone's guess. Ah, Hart of Dixie. Quite fun, but still an angsty CW drama.

     The heat lets Zoe loosen up in more ways than just considering being a looser woman, sexually. As mentioned above, she strips off her clothes and jumps in a dirty pond. Probably unwise, given that Lavon owns an alligator. Still, nice to see, and not referring to a lecherous manner. It's a continuation of the mellowing that begins in the "Pilot," when Zoe leaves New York City to move to Bluebell in the first place. While she still maintains some of the uptight facade, anyone willing to take such a big risk is well on their way to a personality change. In this case, it's a positive thing.


     Watch Hart of Dixie Mondays at 9 p.m. ET on the CW.

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

     Catch up on streaming episodes of Hart of Dixie.

Article first published as TV Review: Hart of Dixie - "In Havoc and in Heat" on Blogcritics.

Hart of Dixie sure to touch your heart

     The CW's newest drama is Hart of Dixie. Rachel Bilson (The O.C.) stars as Zoe Hart, a wannabe surgeon from New York City who is asked to try working at a general practice for a year to improve her bedside manner before being given a fellowship that she really wants. Zoe decides to finally take up an old man's offer in the "Pilot." The old man is named Harley, and he approached her at her graduation speech, trying to recruit her. He has been sending her post cards ever since. Zoe arrives in Bluebell, Alabama, only to learn that Harley has died, leaving her his half of a practice. The town is resistant to the new doc, until she saves the day. Zoe is reluctant to stay, feeling very much the fish-out-of-water around the Southern belles, until she finds out that Harley was her biological father.

     While Hart of Dixie may be new, it has much more in common with the WB shows that predate the CW. It's heartwarming, sweet, and keeps the bitchy mean girls to a minimum. It's quite a welcome respite, and while certainly not fresh, it is unlike almost anything else on American network television. This gives it an edge. I specify American TV because the British have a similar show called Doc Martin with a much surlier lead character.

     Bilson is very good with the personal drama. Zoe's instant bonding with Mayor Lavon Hayes (Cress Williams, Grey's Anatomy, Friday Night Lights) is cute, as is her attraction to George Tucker (Scott Porter, Friday Night Lights, The Good Wife). Zoe's encounter with the alligator Burt Reynolds is hilarious! Equally cool is Bilson's chemistry with Nancy Travis (Becker), who will unfortunately soon be leaving the series to star in Last Man Standing opposite Tim Allen. Maybe that series will be canceled quickly, and she can return? Also, the back story of learning that Harley is Zoe's dad is interesting, setting up a long personal development arc.

     It's great to see Zoe stand up to Lemon Breeland (Jaime King, My Generation, Gary Unmarried), George's fiancé, without being overly confrontational. Also nice is a glimpse of Lemon and George happy together, indicating that they once had something true, and still might, under the right circumstances. This is different than many shows, which would cast the male romantic lead's love interest purely as a villain, at least for quite awhile, before humanizing her. Hart of Dixie doesn't wait, and does it in the "Pilot." The other "bad guys," Wade (Wilson Bethel, The Young and the Restless) and Lemon's father Brick (Tim Matheson, Burn Notice, The West Wing) are equally layered.

     The problem that Hart of Dixie faces is that Bilson is much less convincing than she needs to be as a doctor. Her story of helping Mabel (Ann Mahoney) is touching, but poorly executed. Not only does Zoe have instant bedside manner, an oddity, considering why she is sent to Bluebell, but anytime she talks the medical jargon, it just doesn't seem realistic. It's Bilson's limitations that hurt the show, but those can be worked around by not showing her actually doctoring all that much. Other than that, it's a pretty good series.

     Watch Hart of Dixie Mondays at 9 p.m. ET on the CW.

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