2 Broke Girls "And the Disappearing Bed"

     Last night's episode of CBS's 2 Broke Girls, "And the Disappearing Bed," takes a side trip from the main mission of saving up for a cupcake business. Caroline (Beth Behrs) does make business cards, and encourages Max (Kat Dennings) to give one to Peach (Brooke Lyons). But Peach doesn't use their cupcakes. And Caroline grows weary of sleeping on the couch, so she invests in a do-it-yourself Murphy bed. So the savings pot is considerably smaller by episode's end. Luckily, Max won't be worrying about that when awkward, charged moments with Johnny (Nick Zano, Melrose Place, Cougar Town) have her in a tizzy.

     The opening of "And the Disappearing Bed" is extremely satisfying for anyone who has ever worked in the service industry. Max calls out a very cheap tipper, who responds nastily that he doesn't have to tip, causing his date to dump him. It is required to tip. Sure, not by law. But society has agreed that its OK to pay waiters and waitresses far below minimum wage, relying on tips to make up the difference. As such, it's completely unacceptable to withhold gratuity, as people in the service industry are often poor without benefits, struggling to make ends meet. If you cannot afford to tip a decent amount, do not go out to eat. And if you can afford to and don't, it ought to be illegal, because you are effectively stealing straight from your poor waiter's pockets.

     Caroline is a brilliant sales person. It's too bad she doesn't go personally to speak with Peach, or it's very likely they could have landed the catering gig. Caroline might assume Max possesses the same skills, or some version of them, but she just doesn't. True, Caroline does get a few seconds on the phone with Peach, but in person, Peach could not hang up on her. Losing this one job aside, the business cards will likely pay off. Caroline knows what she is doing with marketing, too. Thus, while the total money saved does go down this week on 2 Broke Girls, one might consider it an investment in the future of the company that will reward them over time.

     The bed, of course, it less necessary. But it's also an investment. After all, how effective is a grumpy Caroline, sleeping on a crappy couch, going to be at selling the business? Thus, it's logical for her to write it off as business expense, even if it's a personal item. The only question here is, how did the bed, which Caroline, who is used to sleeping on very expensive stuff, declares very comfortable, come so cheaply?

     "And the Disappearing Bed" is fun because it lets Max try her romantic side. Not that there is much of one to the girl, but Dennings really finds a way to make her charming, even as she is mumbling and stumbling. Johnny is a fairly good match, as he doesn't judge her, and keeps coming back, though one wishes he would give a little more back towards her. Still, any movement on this part of Max's life is welcome, and I look forward to seeing how it develops.

     Watch 2 Broke Girls Mondays at 8:30 p.m. ET on CBS.

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Blu-ray Review: Bones The Complete Sixth Season

     Now out on Blu-ray and DVD is Bones The Complete Sixth Season. Year six begins with "The Mastodon in the Room," in which the team comes back together, after many months apart, to help Cam (Tamara Taylor). The absence has made Brennan (Emily Deschanel) realize that she wants to be with Booth (David Boreanaz), but in the interim, he has moved on with Hannah (Katheryn Winnick). Similarly, Daisy (Carlo Gallo) tries to reconnect with a jilted Sweets (John Francis Daley). But back together again, they all understand they are strongest together, no matter what personal woes plague them.

     The sixth season of Bones is an excellent one, with many fun highlights. In "The Maggots in the Meathead," Brennan visits the Jersey Shore to interact with Guidos, a cultural group she is very interested in. "The Body and the Bounty" finds Professor Bunsen Jude, The Science Dude (David Alan Grier), coming to the Jeffersonian to shoot an episode of his popular series. "The Bikini in the Soup" is an amusing Valentine's Day case. Many pairs of dismembered feet wash to shore in "The Feet on the Beach." Also, Angela (Michaela Conlin) and Hodgins (T.J. Thyne) welcome a child.

     But season six isn't all fun and games. "The Bullet in the Brain" brings with it the assassination of longtime foe, the Gravedigger (Deirdre Lovejoy), and kicks off Booth's hunting down of the shooter, his former friend Jacob (Arnold Vosloo). Even worse, before Booth can stop Jacob, the bad guy kills beloved squintern Vincent Nigel Murray (Ryan Cartwright), a tragedy that hits the entire team pretty hard. In the aftermath, taking comfort in Booth's arms, Brennan ends up (SHOCKER!) pregnant with his baby, a fact that will surely lead to all new chemistry between the leads in season seven.

     Among the other milestones in The Complete Sixth Season, Bones presents a backdoor pilot in "The Finder," introducing a couple of characters who will be headlining their own spinoff later this year or early next. It's a decent episode with an interesting concept. Because Bones will be doing a reduced number of episodes to accommodate Deschanel's real-life pregnancy in season seven, several Bones characters will appear in episodes of The Finder, further tying the two together. As such, this is a very important episode, in the universe of the series.

     Bones belongs on Blu-ray. With its special effects and detailed settings, HD is the best way to enjoy the series. Bones The Complete Sixth Season's Blu-ray release is in 1.78:1 widescreen high definition with English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio. Which means things look and sound crystal clear. I'm supposed to talk about just how good the picture quality is with any Blu-ray release, but to be honest, if you've seen one recent television show on Blu-ray, you've know exactly what this looks like. That isn't the point, though. Why would you want to watch Bones in anything but the best quality available?

     Extras are a little sparse, but the ones included are chosen well. Two episodes, "The Bikini in the Soup" and "The Daredevil in the Mold," are extended slightly. Audio commentaries are available on two other installments, "The Doctor in the Photo" and "The Blackout in the Blizzard," both heavily emotional entries for the character of Brennan. Additionally, "The Blackout in the Blizzard" has an eight plus minute behind the scenes look at the making of the hour, as the actors talk about doing a bottle episode, and the great elevator set.

     There is a twelve minute featurette on the visual effects of Bones, which will open fans' eyes to just how much goes into the show. After all, it is filmed in Los Angeles, but familiar Washington D.C. landmarks frequently appear in exterior backgrounds. On top of that, the special delves into adding sky and extras in "The Maggots in the Meathead," creating an underwater experience for "The Finder," and making a body explode in a visually stunning way. This will make you appreciate just how much technology and effort goes into each and every episode of the series.

     Plus, there's a four and a half minute gag reel. Those are always fun. And the pilot of AMC's remake of The Killing is included, presumably to entice customers to purchase that series on Blu-ray or DVD as well. If you haven't seen The Killing, it's great, and you really should check it out. Though it is a completely different series than Bones, so not sure about the wisdom of the pairing.

     Buy Bones: The Complete Sixth Season today, and don't miss the Season Seven premiere on November 3rd!

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Article first published as Blu-ray Review: Bones - The Complete Sixth Season on Blogcritics.

Once Upon a Time there was a "Pilot"

     ABC's Once Upon a Time is a fairytale come to life. As "Pilot" begins, Snow White (Ginnifer Goodwin, Big Love, Ed) and Prince Charming's (Josh Dallas, Thor) wedding is interrupted by the Evil Queen (Lana Parrilla, Swingtown, Miami Medical), who promises to curse the land and ruin everyone's happy endings. Rumplestiltskin (Robert Carlyle, SGU Stargate Universe) tells the couple that their unborn daughter will be the savior, on her twenty-eighth birthday. Months later, Snow White gives birth to the girl, Emma, who is spirited away in Geppetto's (Tony Amendola, Stargate SG-1) wardrobe, just before the Evil Queen's curse sweeps through the land.

     In the real world, bail bondsman Emma Swan (Jennifer Morrison, House, How I Met Your Mother) is turning twenty-eight when she is approached by a ten year old boy named Henry Mills (Jared Gilmore, Mad Men). Henry tells her that she is his biological mother. And also that fairy tales are real and trapped in Storybrooke, Maine, and only Emma can save them. She reluctantly accompanies him home, much to the displeasure of his mother (also Parilla). Still, while Emma doesn't believe Henry's tales, there is enough of a draw for her to rent a room at Granny's (Beverly Elliott, Harper's Island, 2012) and commit to staying for a week.

     How much of Once Upon a Time is real, and how much is imagined? Obviously, the fairytale premise must be believed in order to enjoy and understand the series. The fact that half of the "Pilot" is set in the fairytale land indicates that, at least in the show's universe, this actually happens. They are not just crazy delusions, which is what Emma thinks when Henry tells her about everything. She especially thinks Henry is delusional after meeting Henry's shrink, Archie Hopper (Raphael Sbarge, Dexter, Prison Break), whom Henry claims is really Jiminy Cricket (also Sbarge). It's easy to see why Emma might think Henry is crazy, but it's only a matter of time before she begins to come around.

     The concept of Storybrooke being frozen in time, the fairy tale characters not aging, is pretty cool. Except... what about the kids? Henry has lived in Storybrooke for the last ten years, as Regina's son. He looks like a ten year old, not an infant, so he has aged. So do, presumably, Ms. Blanchard's (also Goodwin) other students. Even if only the fairy tale characters are frozen, surely the kids and their parents notice that Ms. Blanchard looks the same as she did twenty-eight years ago? This is the sole stumbling block obvious in the "Pilot" of Once Upon a Time. Hopefully, it will be addressed.

     Well, that, and the incredible weirdness that will ensue when Emma realizes she is Blanchard / Snow White's daughter, even though they look about the same age.

     At the end of the episode, Storybooke's clock, frozen at 8:15, moves to 8:16. What does this signify? How late does the clock have to go before order can be restored, and magic can return to its own realm? Midnight would make the most sense, but this will be a delicate balancing act, depending on how many years the series might go on. After all, Emma should not be the savior until the battle is won. Can this concept be stretched for six seasons without a victory, and without fans growing tired of it?

     The show looks wonderful. The special effects are realistic enough, and there are a million tiny touches to lend authenticity. Details, such as Regina offering Emma a cup of apple cider, the bowl of apples in her home, or Ms. Blanchard getting a pear instead of an apple from a pupil. remind the audience of the characters' alter egos. The town of Storybrooke itself, partly from building design and costumes, exudes an otherworldliness that could pass in our reality, but is slightly off, making for an uneasy balance bound to be upset.

     The actors are all fantastic. Morrison gets to bring her cynical performance to a character that must undergo major change, giving her the actress's dream of showcasing a broad range over several seasons, should Once Upon a Time be favored by television viewers. Goodwin is also good, despite the unfortunate haircut she sports in the "real" world. Her chemistry with Dallas looks and feels like a fairy tale in both versions, aided by the great looking setting and production value. Gilmore is that rare child actor that has personality, and can handle a challenge. Thus, he should not drag down the series, but rather improve it with his presence.

     The performers tasked with the evil side of the coin are even better, especially because at least one of them surely knows the truth about what is happening. Parrilla plays the perfect bad guy, able to smile sweetly, while her gaze drips with poison. Jamie Dornan's (Marie Antoinette) Sheriff Graham is more guarded, with viewers left to wonder about his motivations and origin. He has not yet been shown in the fairy tale world. But Carlyle gets the plumb position, running the town in a greedy manner as Mr. Gold, but once offered help to Snow and the Prince in the fantasy realm. What are his goals? What does he want? His character may have offered aide to save his own skin as his world crashes around him, but he's doing well enough in this new life. Will he have a change of heart?

     If the "Pilot" is any indication, Once Upon a Time should be a rich adventure, full of dreams come to life and delightful fancy. Watch it Sundays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

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Article first published as TV Review: Once Upon a Time - "Pilot" on Blogcritics.

"Listen" to the Boss

     Starz's newest drama tackles politics in Chicago. In the first episode of Boss, called "Listen," Mayor Tom Kane (Kelsey Grammer, Frasier, Back to You) speaks heroically of fighting corruption. Yet, he has a debilitating disease that will soon leave him incapable of doing his job, and he is hiding it. Not only that, but Kane is setting up Ben Zajac (Jeff Hephner, Hellcats) to run for governor against the current one, McCall Cullen (Francis Guinan, Hannibal), whom Kane is publicly supporting. So Kane talks the talk, but fails to walk the walk.

     Chicago is known for corrupt politics. Throughout American history, many an elected official in the city and state has faced charges, and spent time behind bars. These are not just ancient tales; a number of governors from the past few decades have continued the tradition. And while Chicago is not the capital city where the governor is based, it is sometimes blamed for the system that allows such bad behavior, if for no other reason than it's easy to lump things together. Thus, the Windy City is the perfect setting for a story like Boss, and Tom Kane is a familiar figure. While not based specifically on any real person, with a fictional story unfolding, Boss does uphold a realistic spirit, and is easily believable. That is not to say that all politicians from Chicago are corrupt, of course. There are probably plenty of good, even great, ones. But there is a reputation that Chicago has in the minds of many people, and this series plays into that stereotype.

     Is disease a personal issue, or does the general population deserve to know about it, when, like Kane, the ill person is a public servant? After all, the people elect him to do a job, and the symptoms of the disease will soon begin negatively impacting his abilities. Kane is destined to begin hallucinating and lose intellectual function. These are not trivial matters for a high ranking public official. In this case, it is unethical to hide the condition. In this case, the stakes are much more than just personal.

     Not only is Kane hiding the disease, but he is going to great lengths to do so, further betraying the public trust. Using a close confidant named Ezra Stone (Martin Donovan, Weeds, Insomnia), Kane asks that his doctor (Karen Aldridge, well known in the Chicago theater world) be reminded of her obligations to stay silent on the matter. One of Stone's connections does this by drugging and threatening her. This, despite the fact that the good doc blew off reporter Sam Miller (Troy Garity,The Playboy Club), who is digging around. Will the scare tactic make her more determined to stay silent, or will it backfire, as she wants to get the story out?

     One has to wonder how Kane chooses Zajac as his man in the race for Illinois governor. Kane seems to have a working relationship with Cullen already. And Kane stages a photo with Zajac to leak to Cullen instead of keeping it a secret. But perhaps Kane wants more power, and thinks that Zajac is the right patsy to get him that? Not that Kane will be able to wield such influence for long, considering his condition. More importantly, Kane's assistant, Kitty O'Neil (Kathleen Robertson, Tin Man, Beverly Hills, 90210), is sleeping with Zajac. Did she bring Zajac to Kane's attention? Is Kane having her sleep with Zajac to further control him? Or did they just meet because of the new arrangement? This relationship bears further scrutiny.

     Not everyone is in the dark about Kane, even though he works hard at his noble public image. In "Listen," a Native American burial ground is found near the airport. So as to not interfere with his plans to expand O'Hare, Kane has control of the sacred soil put on a trash service bill as an addendum. Suddenly, the city council, who do not seem surprised, is angrily forced to hand Kane power without oversight, or risk alienating constituents for voting down a popular and necessary measure. While this is not resolved by the end of the episode, it's fairly clear that Kane will get his way.

     Kane seems like one tough cookie. Besides the way he handles his political opponents, and the derisive way he treats his staff, even coldly telling Kitty to never ask if he's OK, there's something in "Listen" that demonstrates Kane's character even better. It's true that the real measure of a man is what he does when he is alone. At a fundraiser, Kane is given a box. Opening it later in his kitchen, he finds severed human ears, presumably belonging to the guy that gives him the box, whose head is bandaged. Kane nonchalantly picks them up and drops them in the garbage disposal. This means Kane is calculating, hard to frighten, and has little compassion for his fellow human beings. The casual manner in which he handles the whole thing is chilling.

     Sadly, Kane's family likes him about as much as his enemies do. His wife, Meredith (Connie Nielsen, Gladiator, Law & Order: SVU), has her own bedroom, when Kane even returns to his house, which apparently is not a daily occurrence. She barely talks to him, only as necessary, and does public functions just to maintain an image. Why even stay married then? Well, Meredith may be the one who wants to keep the union intact. As the mayor's wife, she controls education funding, and is an important figure. Take away who her husband is, and that evaporates. This could point to Meredith being nearly as cold as her husband.

     Daughter Emma (Hannah Ware, Shame) works at a health clinic for the poor, and is also a minister. So she's probably a lot more warm and caring than her parents. She doesn't have much interest in speaking with her father when he calls, though, so she knows who he is, and is soured on him. That's not surprising. What is, is that despite all of her good deeds, Emma goes out of her way to bond with a drug dealer named Darius (Rotimi Akinosho). She does throw away the drugs he gives her, but is that because she is an addict trying not to relapse? Is she trying to expose Darius and stop his activities? It's just not clear yet.

     When faced with one's mortality, one wants their loved ones around for comfort and support. In "Listen," Kane begins to show signs of this. He calls his daughter, and he tries to strike up a chat with his wife, both of whom are less than receptive. Is it too late for Kane to find peace before death? Should he focus on a political legacy, or his family? He probably doesn't have time left for both, and if he tries to balance, he could accomplish neither. Which sets up Boss as a very neat, gripping drama, starring a fantastic actor at the top of his game.


     Watch Boss Fridays at 10 p.m. ET on Starz.


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Article first published as TV Review: Boss - "Listen" on Blogcritics.

"In Case of Loss of Control," consult A Gifted Man

NOTE: "In Case of Loss of Control" is listed as episode #1.07 on both imdb.com and wikipedia.com, but aired fifth in the series. Thus, as far as continuity goes, it might seem slightly out of place.

     Last night, CBS presented "In Case of Loss of Control," the newest episode of A Gifted Man. Michael (Patrick Wilson) courts Dr. E-Mo (Eriq La Salle, ER), a neuropsychiatrist, to join his practice. Together, they examine a young girl (Samantha Futerman) who keeps lying about her habits. Meanwhile, Michael also helps out at the clinic, as they take care of a young boy who needs a kidney, but who is an illegal alien. The boy's mother, his best chance at getting said kidney, is arrested, so Zeke (Rhys Coiro, Entourage) and Kate (Rachelle Lefevre) lie to Michael to get him to help.

     Michael is finally finding a rhythm between his practice and the clinic. Now that he has agreed to help Kate out several hours a week, he seems to be getting his life back on track. In fact, Anna (Jennifer Ehle) has little to do with the path Michael goes on "In Case of Loss of Control," mostly observing what is going on, without causing any trouble. Obviously, for A Gifted Man to stay interesting, and Anna's character to continue to be valued, this cannot be the norm. But after all of the craziness of the first few episodes, it must be nice for Michael to go through his business in a regular manner.

      The relationship between Michael and Rita (Margo Martindale) is calming down, too, now that she knows he has other priorities, and is able to schedule around them. What's more, with the addition of E-Mo to the staff at the main practice, Michael is under less pressure there. He has someone competent to help him out. The two worlds may be seperate, to some degree, but they are calming down into a nice balance, at least one the practice end.

     Too bad the same can't be said for Michael's interaction with the clinic docs. Zeke and Kate deciding to lie to Michael shows that his transformation, or at least how people see him, is not complete. They worry that Michael would hang the kids out to try if he learned of his less than legal status. Given the first few episodes, had Michael known the truth, he would have protested, but done the right thing in the end. Kate might still be suspicious, and that's understandable, but Zeke has been around a little longer, and should know better by now.

     Kate wastes no time in shaking up the clinic. Securing a grant, she is able to have Anton (Pablo Schreiber) continue construction, already expanding the space. Of course, even when she runs out of money, Anton keeps working, because he's such a good guy. But the point is, Kate is barely starting out and she is already taking on a lot. It is commendable that she wants to make the clinic a better place, but shouldn't she work on fixing what she has before adding to the load? The facilities need some updating, and certainly better equipment and supplies top the list. Expanding the floor space seems silly and stupid, given the circumstances. I guess it just looks more dramatic for a television program. It's a good thing the characters are interesting enough to overlook such foolishness.

     Watch A Gifted Man Fridays at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

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Save your "Judgment" for Person of Interest

     On this week's episode of CBS's Person of Interest, "Judgment," Finch (Michael Emerson) identifies a judge (David Costabile, Breaking Bad, Damages) that might be in danger. Before Reese (Jim Caviezel) can figure out the threat fully, the judge's young son is kidnapped. Reese reveals himself to the judge, hoping he can rescue the kid before the judge is forced to throw a case, the ransom that the bad guys demand. Finch is not pleased, wishing Reese would stay behind the scenes. The case is lost, but the kid is rescued, and the villains get arrested.

     "Great procedural" is a term that should be rarely, if ever, used. Procedurals are, by definition, very similar from week to week, as the good guys solve new criminals and try to stop them by hour's end. Even if an individual hour is well made, or most of them are, the same premise week to week finds the series getting stale for regular viewers fairly soon. Procedurals are popular for people bouncing in and out when they have the time, but for regular television watchers, it is very difficult to make one good enough to repeatedly, episode after episode, hold one's interest. Generally, this is done by putting together a colorful ensemble cast. Person of Interest has the odds stacked against it, and makes things even tougher with what is basically a two man show. Yet, Person of Interest is a great procedural.

     The most important element of Person of Interest are the two leads. Yes, there are four main characters, but the central duo are much more important, and get much more screen time, than the other two. While both leads have many mysteries surround them, the series starts revealing things about both immediately, and still maintains many unanswered questions. Emerson and Caviezel are expect performers, capturing nuance brilliantly. Both characters see much more going on in the world, as well as everyday situations, than the average person. Watching the show, viewers will be moved to start to do the same.

     In "Judgment," Finch grows suspicious when Reese asks the seemingly innocent question, "What's good here?" at a restaurant. Finch sees any response to those seemingly innocent words as important clues about his habits and living space. He doesn't want to give Reese any inkling of personal information when not necessary. But in the end, after Reese solves the case, Finch admits to frequenting the establishment, clueing Reese in, but in a small, controllable way. It's exchanges like these that keep Person of Interest highly engrossing.

     "Judgment" brings the other two central characters closer to each other. Carter (Taraji P. Henson) begins to appreciate Fusco (Kevin Chapman) when he helps her solve a murder. Fusco knows the woman's death is connected to the kidnapping because Reese is using him as a spy, but Carter is in the dark. It's a delicate balance, requiring an excellently choreographed dance. Reese must know when to push Fusco, and what to tell him, but also massage the details he needs from the source, without letting Fusco learn too much. The fact that Fusco is able to work both sides, while keeping Carter, an incredibly intelligent detective, in the dark, is fantastic. And it won't last.

     The story in "Judgment" is pretty darn good all by itself. Person of Interest struggles to keep fans guessing what is going on. With a few 'surprise' bad guys already under its belt, the series wisely makes the judge, who looks a good man, an actual good man. But considering that the protagonist is a judge, this provides a particular conundrum, especially when the stakes get higher, and Reese must reveal himself. Having a judge in their corner may help keep Finch and Reese a step ahead of the law. On the other hand, it exposes them to someone in the legal system, something they try to avoid. Hopefully, the judge character will return, and it's anyone's guess, given Finch and Reese's differing opinions, as to whether he will prove a help or hindrance in the future.

     Person of Interest airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on CBS.

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"Wake" The Secret Circle

     The CW's The Secret Circle meets its newest member this week in "Wake." The town mourns the death of Nick (Louis Hunter), especially Melissa (Jessica Parker Kennedy), who is in love with him. Nick's older brother Jake (Chris Zylka, 10 Things I Hate About You) arrives, and Faye (Phoebe Tonkin), whose heart Jake broke, and Adam (Thomas Dekker), whose family Jake stole from, are not happy to see him. But Cassie (Britt Robertson) sure is when an evil witch hunter shows up, and Jake saves her. The circle knows that Jake can take Nick's place in their group, but they are unaware that he has come to town for a darker reason.

      It's a bold move for a freshman series to kill off a central member of the cast in episode five, completely unexpected, even if he is quickly replaced. This alone buys The Secret Circle some respect. Too bad the actor coming in to replace the offed one seems stiff, more a pretty face than a good addition, acting-wise. Looks can be deceiving, and Jake has a fine story set up, having to choose between his destiny and the witch hunters he is working for. It will remain to be seen if Zylka is up to the challenge.

      Jake's arrival serves an important purpose in that it will remind Cassie, who is already beginning to act like a leader, that she doesn't know everything. The other characters have history in the town, and much happens prior to Cassie's arrival that they have trouble forgiving and forgetting. Even Jane (Ashley Crow) isn't all that happy to see Jake. Cassie is exuding the confidence that she's well-informed enough to make major decisions, but without being clued in on a lot of back story, she is in the dark more than the others, and more than she seems aware of being. Cassie doesn't realize this in "Wake," but her quick ability to trust Jake, whom the others are wary of, and whom they have good reason to be so, will likely come back to bite her.

     But will Jake ultimately prove to be an enemy? Despite Faye and Adam's reservations, it's clear that Jake is already growing a bit fond of Cassie. He comes to town with a purpose, but after seeing everyone, including his new neighbor, it may be that his purpose will change. After all, he kills the woman that attacks Cassie. This isn't presented as an accident, and while it may help him maintain cover, that probably isn't all that it does. How soon before Jake lets the others in on the threat that they face? The quicker, the better, as there is a whole group of baddies lurking nearby, led by Isaac (JR Bourne, Teen Wolf).

     Given that The Secret Circle is a CW series, Jake's presence in and after "Wake" will also serve to shake up the romantic chemistry, as that is as much a focus of shows on the network as the action plots. Obviously, Faye still harbors something for Jake, even if it has turned to hate. Also, as mentioned before, Jake is taking a shine to Cassie. This complicates matters, in that Diana (Shelley Hennig) breaks up with Adam so that he can fulfill his destiny and be with Cassie. So all of a sudden, the central character will have two guys who want to be with her, and are available to do so.

     The whole "destiny" thing between Cassie and Adam is weird. It's odd that Diana steps aside so readily, when Adam stays loyal, despite simmering feelings. Perhaps she is trying to be noble, but that isn't how it comes across. Also, considering that Adam's father, Ethan (Adam Harrington), harbors similar feelings for Cassie's departed mother, how is that right? Cassie and Adam would be siblings if the older pair worked out! Or is the blood fate just transferred to the next generation if the previous one doesn't fulfill it? How does one determine which generation the fate is supposed to happen in? Do different age groups have different attractions to different families? If this continues among the circle, wouldn't this lead to much inbreeding? After all, it's only six families involved. Luckily, they all seem to always have kids about the same age. How has this chain not been broken over time?

     It's great that The Secret Circle brings Cassie's grandma, Jane, in on the main action so soon, instead of leaving her in the dark for years, as so many similar series would do, and have done before. Jane is a great asset to the group, providing wisdom and power far beyond what the kids can muster at this time. Even though she doesn't have a circle to back her up, at least not one that seems to be around, she is a valuable asset. But she's also a protection for them, so it wouldn't be surprising if she doesn't live past the first season or two. They need to stand on their own, and can't always have grandma fighting their battles for them.

     What's the deal with the crystals? Apparently, they allow a witch to have power individually, instead of needing another member of their circle to be with them. Who created them, and how do they work? It's a convenience that pops up without a lot of explanation. So if each family has one, and Jake likely is holding onto his, given his knowledge of his power and how to use it, as well as the fact that he's been alone, where are the others? When the elders break up the previous circle, they must have confiscated some of them. Whose does Dawn (Natasha Henstridge) possess? Where did she get it? Does it need a circle to recharge, and that's why hers runs down? Lots of questions about this, that hopefully will get answered instead of glossed over.

     Does Dawn really have Jane fooled? Jane is pretty darn wise, and Dawn has been acting suspiciously, a fact that has not gone unnoticed. Dawn's plans to use the kids to get her own power back sort of her make her a villain, even if she does do things to protect them. Dawn's alliance with Jane is barely that, as the two women don't have any particularly warm connection with each other, and it's doubtful there is much trust between them. Jane may feel like she has no one else to ask for help, since the magic needs to stay a secret as much as possible. But Dawn won't be much help in any regard, unless their priorities happen to align in that moment. Or maybe she is just testing Dawn to see how Dawn reacts when she brings up the kids' magic.

     Nick's death affects the kids in different ways, but it really does a number on Charles (Gale Harold). Having to live with the guilt of murdering a teenager, even if it is done to kill a demon dwelling inside, haunts Charles. Unlike Dawn, who is able to bounce back just fine, keeping her focus on their mission, whatever it may be, Charles seems distant and out of it. He did not sign up for hurting anyone, especially not someone in town, and so young. Taking out Nick, no matter how good the reason, changes the way he thinks about the magic. He is probably a lot less likely to pursue getting his powers back now that he remembers what those powers can cost, a fact forgotten over the years since the last disaster. Jane may want to start looking for a new sidekick.


     The Secret Circle is just getting started. Watch it Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on the CW.

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Article first published as TV Review: The Secret Circle - "Wake" on Blogcritics.

"The Storm of the Century" hits It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia

     With media hype about every hurricane growing more and more ridiculous, it isn't surprising that FX's It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia chooses such a topic to tackle in "The Storm of the Century." While note on the coast, Philadelphia is close enough to suffer from some serious wind and rain should such a storm make land fall. In last night's episode, the city was in a panic, preparing for the worst. The gang ventures out to get supplies, intending to party in the bar, and if needed, head to the bunker in the basement to ride out the disaster. Of course, along the way, they create much of the problem themselves.

     It's Dee's (Kaitlin Olson) idea to use the bunker, which they built for Y2K, and everyone knows how that turns out. She is surprised to see it is no longer in good shape, and sends the guys out to restock it. Except for Frank (Danny DeVito), who is too slow to get away from the crazy lady. While Dee frets and freaks out, the guys take things relatively calmly, likely heading to the store as much to get away from Dee, as to actually accomplish their missions.

     But the characters are nothing, if not adaptable. Upon arriving at the market, only Charlie (Charlie Day) keeps to the original purpose, gathering funny clothing and a hatchet. Which infringes on Dennis's (Glenn Howerton) goal to get women to come back and party (and have sex) with them. Dennis doesn't need to be any creepier than he already is around women, and Charlie's insistent mentioning of a bunker, as well as general look, makes them seem more scary. At least Dennis is honest about his motivations, angrily sending two girls away when they reveal they have boyfriends. They probably only talk to Dennis as long as they do because he owns a bar, and hey, you don't pass up free booze! And those are just dumb, young bimbos. Dennis's dream weather girl is far out of his league.

     Mac (Rob McElhenney) continues his mission this season to get as fat as possible. Going into the store searching mainly for food, he has no problem leaving his friends to make sure the edibles make it back to the bunker. It's a sad development for the character, whose portrayer decided that packing on weight for real this season would be funny. Olson, McElhenney's real-life wife, must be an incredibly patient woman. But it's not entirely out of character for Mac to do this, either. The characters in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia care only about themselves, and in Mac's case, food for himself. Tubbo needs to get back in shape, and he will, when he realizes that he is danger because of his declining health.

     As "The Storm of the Century" approaches, even finding supplies and hunkering down proves impossible for this motley crew. Frank shoots Rickety Cricket (David Hornsby, How to Be a Gentleman) in the hand when they find him lurking in the basement. Charlie, Frank, and Dee start a riot in the store after an injured Cricket drives their car through the front windows. And, it doesn't even matter, because "The Storm of the Century" proves to be a light drizzle. Which will in no way make the gang feel guilty for what they've done. They have no guilt and no shame. That's just who they are. And their comfort in their own skin is why, even as detestable as these characters are, we keep tuning in week after week. That, and they are positively hilarious.

     It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia airs Thursday nights at 10 p.m. ET on FX.

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Up All Night giving "Birth"

     NBC's Up All Night made episode six, "Birth," very special by setting it months before the series begins. Reagan (Christina Applegate) is preparing to have Amy, and sets up a very detailed birthing plan. When she goes into labor early, things begin going wrong. First, she forgets her bag. Then, her doctor is unavailable, so the young, attractive Dr. Goddard (Sam Page, Mad Men, Shark) fills in. It doesn't help that Ava (Maya Rudolph) is still in denial about the whole situation. But luckily Chris (Will Arnett), who plans on taking just a short leave from work, keeps calm.

     It's interesting to see the characters prior to how they've been seen thus far. Of course, they are the same people viewers are already getting to know, and there aren't too many surprises. Ava still is clueless about the world, and has problems coping with things. Chris has his priorities in order, whether they be a job or a baby, and can roll with the punches. Reagan is a control freak, but can also adapt when she needs to.

     The cosmetic changes, through unimportant to the overall formula, are why "Birth" is fun. Ava has an old announcer who annoys her, and jokes that her driver, Calvin (Nick Cannon) could do a better job. Those who watch the first few episodes of Up All Night know that Calvin does, indeed, get the occupational change, and will soon be on stage alongside Ava. We also get to see that Chris is actually quite great at a career, but the moment his daughter is born, he realizes he is plenty willing to give it up out of love for his child. It highlights just what a good man he is.

     Less funny is Missy (Jennifer Hall, now a series regular) trying to get Ava to the hospital. Perhaps it's because the character of Missy is more pathetic than humorous, and she lets herself be walked all over, but it's hard to laugh at her. Hall commits fully, so it's hard to blame the actress. Yet, it just seems cruel to find her sad ways funny, and so, in feeling bad for her, it kind of ruins the jokes. Even the gag when Ava cuts Missy's hair falls flat. It's a wonder the series decides to upgrade the character, and potentially a mistake to do so.

     In all, "Birth" is less successful than other show's flashbacks, and thus, a disappointment. It has good moments, and things worth seeing, but perhaps those could have been inserted in a present day story, as stretching the plot for an entire episodes feels forced. Too bad. The "Pilot" was so promising.

     Up All Night airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.

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"The Poor Kids Do It Everyday" on Ringer

     Six episodes in, the mysteries on the CW's new drama Ringer keep coming. In this week's episode, "The Poor Kids Do It Everyday," Bridget (Sarah Michelle Gellar) and Henry (Kristoffer Polaha) both wonder what happen to Gemma (Tara Summers), wondering if each other engaged in foul play. They seem to come to an understanding, but then Bridget calls in an anonymous tip to the police on the crime scene evidence that Henry cleaned up, and leaves her own fingerprints on the weapon. Also, Machado (Nestor Carbonell) searches for the also missing Malcolm (Mike Colter), and Juliet (Zoey Deutch) finds an ally in Mr. Carpenter (Jason Dohring, Veronica Mars, Moonlight) at her new school.

     In Ringer, the viewers get the important clues long before the characters do. By this point, audiences can assume that no one is trying to kill Siobhan (also Gellar) because the man that Bridget killed in self-defense was sent by Siobhan, though he carried Siobhan's picture, not Bridget's. This means it is likely that Siobhan wanted everyone to think she is dead, and by Bridget taking over her life, Bridget ruined Siobhan's plan. Or at least a part of it. It's why Siobhan wanted to kill Bridget. It's also why she has Gemma taken out, probably, as Gemma knows about the twin sisters, and also knows that Bridget has taken Siobhan's place.

     But is Gemma maybe somehow still alive? If not, why not show her body?

      Why does Siobhan want everyone to think she is dead? It's obviously something she plans for, setting aside money that Bridget also unwittingly takes, and heading to Paris. It's interesting that Ringer shows so much, but explains so little. Though fans know what Siobhan is doing, the why has not been covered for any of it, leaving as more questions that the series is answering.

     In "The Poor Kids Do It Everyday," the series does the same with Bridget. We see that Bridget implicates herself in the possible murder of Gemma, but it is not clear why. This gets Machado's attention, of course, as he has Bridget flagged. But for now, everyone except the missing Gemma assumes that Siobhan is still living her life, and if they even know who Bridget is, thinks she is the one missing. Without knowing that Siobhan is still alive, Bridget thinks that will be no suspect to be found for Gemma. It keeps Henry and Siobhan, meaning her, since she's taken Siobhan's place, clear of any suspicion. But, still, setting up herself is a big risk. Why not find a bum in the alley to get prints from? If Machado realizes the rouse, then he might think Bridget did something to Gemma, creating even more problems.

      Malcolm's capture and torture by the men looking for Bridget is a big complication that will have to be resolved soon. Given the CW's penchant for killing off main characters, his number might just be up. After all, he is certainly the most expendably of the main characters. Bridget already has a new sponsor, and Machado is only looking for Malcolm because he has information on Bridget. If Malcolm dies, Bridget's secrets are protected a bit longer. Hopefully, Ringer will find a new and interesting twist to keep Malcolm around, but it seems unlikely. Unless Gemma is really dead, and Ringer doesn't want to off two characters so soon.

     Also, is it really a coincidence that Bridget finds a new sponsor so quickly in Charlie (Billy Miller, The Young and the Restless). Is anyone fooled? Who is he working for, and why is he there?

     It also seems odd that Juliet gets any plot at all. She isn't a main character, nor is she paramount to what is going on with Bridget and Siobhan. This isn't exactly a complaint, since following Juliet to schools opens up the door to see Dohring back on television. However, her scenes seem out of place, especially coming after so little independent development for the character in the first few episodes.

     Is Bridget sleeping with Siobhan's husband, Andrew (Ioan Gruffudd)? She would have to, to completely sell the charade, especially since Bridget is determined to fix the marriage, but the series shies from showing this explicitly. Probably because of the gross factor involved in sleeping with one's own brother-in-law. If one stops and thinks about it, Andrew is living a common male fantasy, and not even getting to enjoy it. But, more likely, he will be morally offended when the truth comes out. Or he'll choose Bridget over Siobhan since Bridget is actually good to him. It sure seems like Bridget might be falling for Andrew, though whether that's because of the life she has with him, or because she genuinely cares, is uncertain.

     Ringer airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on the CW.

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