The Candidate

The idea of the candidate is further explained by Not-Locke.  Evidently, Jacob has been looking for a replacement to protect the island, and in doing so has developed a sequence of numbers that pertain to certain individuals in the world.  You guessed it, Sayid, Jack, Hurley, Locke, Sawyer and either Jin or Sun have all been assigned one of the six numbers of ‘the numbers’.

What’s interesting is that if this is the only purpose of the numbers, then it is not the all-commanding rule to becoming a candidate.  For example, Straume has been crossed out even though he is alive.  Illana has also voted Frank as a possible candidate.  And the biggest mystery is why figures such as Dogan or Richard are not candidates at all, even though they seem more qualified than any of our Losties.  In addition, Kate is not a candidate even though she has come in contact with Jacob.  The plot thickens…

The Flash-Sideways

The best thing about the flash-sideways is that it gives a tragically misguided Locke closure.  In the alternate world, Locke is still handicap, but he is also happily engaged to Helen.  While he is not the man of faith we’ve grown accustomed to, he still has the encouragement of familiar faces.

It’s interesting to note that in this reality, Rose is the strictly no-nonsense figure who pushes Locke to accept reality while Hurley is the happy-go-lucky man who fully believes in luck.  In essence, they are the complete reverse of who they would’ve become had they crashed on the island.  Either way, the most important message these encounters present is that Locke is not alone.  He is not a lonely man doing a thankless job of preserving the island, but a regular guy who is trying his best to be happy.

Of course, the ironic and hilarious encounter with Ben is simply icing on the cake.  It would seem even without the influence of the island, Ben has to be the one in charge.  This flash-sideways, unlike the previous episode, gives me moments I never even knew I wanted.

Overall

The balance between emotional resolution and a continued exploration of mythology in ‘The Substitute’ is pitch perfect.  It is a good reminder of why I fell in love with Lost in the first place.

Rating: 9.8/10

Kate and Claire

What is weird about these two is that their connection develops without the two actually being present for each other.  Somehow, fate managed to have Aaron inherit two mothers, and that is what currently defines their relationship.  In truth, it’s hard to tell whether they would even like each other given a normal situation.  In the flash-sideway, their sudden relationship is rather forced and somewhat dependent on elements outside their own being.  There is a nice understated maternal and very much female-empowering vibe between a fugitive and a pregnant mother, but come on, how can Claire be so naive as to trust a gun-waving, cab-stealing stranger?  Despite my frustration over this, the episode does remind viewers of the Claire that we used to know.  In the words of team Darlton, she was the sunshine shining over the survivors.  I’m not sure if one flash-sideway can reestablish this, but the intention is there.

What the storyline does point out is that ultimately, Kate’s compassion and Claire’s helplessness remains with them even if external forces such as a plane crash do no occur, and that is quite a powerful message.  Of course, Ethan’s surprising cameo also spices things up quite a bit.  The irony is that thanks to Kate’s contribution (in helping detonate the bomb), Ethan has a new life where he is an upstanding citizen and not buried on a mysterious island…and he will never know.  It is this kind of storytelling that makes Lost larger than life, and something that can only be done with a series as expansive as this.

The Claim

The island story is much more compelling.  This story focuses on Sayid and why he’s been claimed.  For the most part, this cryptic storyline does open up some new doors for consideration, but it only raises more questions.  The mystery is engaging, but it is only so because the writers have no choice but to characterize the Others as frustrating ingrates who refuse to answer a simple question.  The tactic has worked over the years, but when it comes to face-to-face confrontation, the device gets old really fast.

Sawyer and Kate

Perhaps the biggest surprise of the episode is the emotional scene between Sawyer and Kate…and me buying it.  For the first time in ages, the show takes a minute to breathe and allow the characters to really contemplate their situation, and the result is a heartbreaking monologue by Sawyer who tearfully mourns the loss of Juliet.  They are the couple who fell in love despite all the unlikelihood in the world, and perhaps the most triumphant accomplishment (aside from the time-jumping mayhem) by the writers in Season 5.  The scene illustrates growth because Sawyer finally allows his emotions to sink in and Kate finally (finally) learns to walk away.

Claireusseau

Of course, Lost would not be Lost without a head-scratching reveal.  Thanks to the time-travel and the departure of the Oceanic 6, Claire’s ability to stay hidden for so long actually seems somewhat plausible.  It will be interesting to finally bring this mystery to a close.

Rating: 8.1/10

However, that is not to say life has just been a series of obligatory academic events either (as they usually are when you are in college).  In a way, college mirrors the life of a writer.  Just as college allows you to make mistakes, experience different things and protect you from the real world, writers often live in their own bubble.  When it comes to stepping out of the zone, that’s when the terror really hits you.  There’s the hype, the anticipation and the preparation, but then comes the step of actually trying to do something.

So, I am currently seeking new pathways for my career.  Internships, lectures and more writing may seem like grunt work at the moment, but it is the first time in a long time that I’ve felt energized by what I do.  As the prospect of graduation looms ever closer, chances are my free time will continue to decrease or simply, my online commitment will have to be set aside.

I will try my best to continue broadcasting my thoughts, so I hope those of you who are actually listening will continue to wait for good news on my end.  Trust me, when the good news come in, you will know.

Lost

The Smoke Monster

This is by no means a surprise, but the reveal of Other Locke being a human form of the Smoke Monster is still an immensely gratifying moment.  For loyal fans, it might feel like a great weight has been lifted.   Of course, the massacre that ensues doesn’t hurt either.  What’s interesting is that despite its polymorphic ability, Other Locke might not be accountable for Jacob’s apparition soon after his demise.  Something tells me even Smokie has a hard time being at two places at the same time, but what do I know.

The new question the premiere raises is where Other Locke’s home lies.  Due to the premiere’s extra dose of biblical imagery, I immediately thought of hell…but that would mean Richard is an angel?  Well, I’m too seasoned at this to overthink the subject matter and give myself a headache.  Only time will tell.

The Temple

Apparently, the Temple is where old cultures come to die.  Somehow, team Darlton has managed to illustrate a mystical place that seems to give hints of Egyptian, Incan, Tibetan and many other cultures.  While the sudden introduction of this new atmosphere is alright by me, I do wonder exactly how this particular brand of Others have managed to keep themselves isolated for so long.  After all, tunnels and guns do not necessarily equate to an impenetrable fortress.

What is the relationship between the Others on the beach and those at the Temple?  Despite that hint that they are allies, the difference between them seems night and day.

The Top of the Food Chain

Every season, Lost develops a figure (or figures) who represent the key to the island’s many secrets.  Since the show’s usage of characters is often compared to pawns in a chess game, you have to wonder just how many other pieces there are.  With the likes of Ben, Charles, Eloise, Richard, Jacob, Other Locke, and now “mysterious Japanese fellow,” the number of key holders keeps on expanding.  Is there a definitive hierarchy in terms of wealth of knowledge here?

This is the dilemma that I feel Lost has warped itself into.  After all, the great Benjamin Linus seems nothing more than a broken, feeble doll.  Yet, after 30 years of loyal service, his curiosity has never once gotten the best of him regarding the Monster or Jacob?  Yes, he’s a mastermind manipulator, but describing him as a blind fool might not be all that inappropriate, especially since he’s asking the same questions we are.  It makes me question the origin of conviction of previous island leaders as well.

And with Richard knocked unconscious, the food chain continues to transform…

The Two Timelines

The basic principles of Lost’s new plot device is not that uncommon.  In fact, J. J. Abrams’ other baby a.k.a. Fringe is entirely centered around this concept.  What, then, makes this special?

Again, the premiere remains most rewarding for those of us still sticking around for the end game.  Ultimately, the alternate timeline relies mostly on emotional resonance rather than plot twists.  It is incredibly disconcerting at first, but the two timelines just might help balance the emotional and mythological needs of the show.  It has always been my hope that Lost would eventually bring back old characters in some manner as a form of tribute, so you can imagine my giddy at seeing Boone, Charlie, Arzt and even Frogurt.

However, this feeling of satisfaction is entirely contingent upon what I hope is an eventual coming together of these two worlds.  While I trust the writers, I am stating right now that delivering two different endings would be the absolute worst way to end the series and a complete cop-out.  Still, I’m hopeful until proven otherwise.

The Verdict

As with any Lost premiere, this one left me slightly dizzy but ultimately exhilarated.  While nothing compares to the awe of the pilot, this premiere currently holds steady at second place.  With lots of catching up, resolutions, reveals and yes, twists, ‘LA X’ is quintessential Lost through and through.

Rating: 9.4/10

2+2+1+1

For some reason, the presence of two taken scientists is starting to cause a rift between the characters with girlfriends and those without.  Suddenly, all interactions either revolve around Sheldon or relationships.  This is by no means a bad thing, but it does limit the number of storylines the show can substantially explore.  It’s all comaraderie on The Big Bang Theory, but what about individual development?  The unfortunate few like Raj gets to be the definitive sidekick without a chance to ever evolve.

This would be a major detriment to the show, but thanks to its constant barrage of jokes and hilarious storylines, the show remains top notch.  However, here’s to hoping that some change comes to the show comes its fourth year.  There’s consistency and then there’s risk taking.  The Big Bang Theory is not the latter.

Rating: 8/10

Air Track

The case of the week is not one of my favorites.  For some reason, the various traits of the toxin reminded me a great deal of last week’s case.  Perhaps it is the similarities, but the episode felt more procedural than ever before.  Somehow, the crime, the investigation, the follow-up and the resolution has slightly decreased in entertainment over the past few weeks.  In any case, Fringe has had much more interesting cases in the past.

Interestingly enough, the case does provide an Easter Egg for fans still paying attention to the symbols during commercial breaks.  The sea horse has officially made its way into the show.

Walter Bishop

Aside from the regular investigation, the episode does show a darker side to Walter Bishop, one that is reminiscent of the original Walter Bishop before his hypocampus was removed.  For cutting edge science, the ethics behind experimentation is always explored on Fringe.  So many villains on the show agrees with the philosophy that the end justifies the means.  It is surprising that Broyles would let Bishop’s murder go so casually.

It is another day as usual on Fringe this week.  Despite my lackluster reception of ‘The Bishop Revival’, what does excite me is the promo for next week’s episode.  Once again, Fringe comes back with another mythology-driven episode right as I am about to be bored.  Good riddance.

Rating: 7/10

Bad Bad Better

The show is notorious for its morally corrupt, self-serving set of characters.  Yes, they are intelligent and intriguing, but a day without lies is nonexistent in the world of Damages.  In this sense, the premiere still retains its infamy with the underhanded dealings of Patty Hewes.  However, the dosage and extremity of everyone’s actions are significantly toned down in this episode.  No, it doesn’t mean they are innocent in the long run (the flashforwards implicate pretty much every cast member to some very form shady business), but the introduction feels much more character-driven rather than plot-centric.

Therefore, viewers are no longer barraged with a constant sense of corruption.  Instead, ‘Your Secrets Are Safe’ develops a sense of pause and evolution, especially for Ellen and Patty, who seem more human than ever before.  The introduction of the new cast also establishes their personality rather than their guilt.  While there is a prevailing sense of secrecy at every turn, it is not the focus, at least not this week.

Is it possible the show is allowing viewers to care about the characters?  This is the biggest twist of all.

Time Relativity

There is also a noticeable difference in the usage of the time jump.  The previous two seasons employ the time jump to discombobulate viewers.  By showing a past that bares no resemblance to the inevitable future, the intrigue is figuring out how the characters get there over the course of the show.  The premiere still retains this relationship, but also establishes several key elements six months earlier that is later seen in the flashforwards (i.e. the purse, the homeless man and Tom Shayes).  Given their connection to a mystery yet unknown, it is not simply our job to be thrown off course, but to put together the pieces of the puzzle in a much more deliberate manner.  Thus, the relationship between the present and the future is not only seeded in the characters, but a Lost-like commentary between two disparate time periods.

Talent

I won’t mention this every week, but the immense talent Damages attracts continues to impress me.  With a stellar cast that includes Lily Tomlin, Reiko Aylesworth, Martin Short, Campbell Scott, and of course, existing powerhouses Glenn Close and Rose Byrne, it is not only a trust in the writing that keeps me returning.  With a group like this, they can do the chicken dance and still manage to get an emotional response from me.

All in all, ‘Your Secrets Are Safe’ delivers in an unexpected yet understated manner.  After two seasons, it seems like a guarantee that the third installment if Damages will continue to surprise viewers.

Rating: 9.6/10

Cibopathy

The story centers around Tony Chu, one of few cibopaths in the world.  With cibopathy, Tony can eat anything and recall its history.  With the illegalization of chicken, Tony’s position at the FDA makes him a member of one of the most powerful organizations in the world.  It is with this crazy premise that the series begins, and it only gets more insane as it continues.

All the Right Ingredients

It is not simply the original premise that sets Chew apart, but the writing as well.  Despite Tony’s habit of biting his way through crime, the witty writing helps alleviate some of the more unappetizing scenes.  The cast of characters never experiences a dull moment, especially since they are as off-kilter and they come.  In terms of tone, Chew has a wide array of tools at its disposal.  At times, it has the airy, fairytale-like delivery of Pushing Daisies.  Other times, it is reminiscent of the bloody carnage of a Quentin Taratino film.  Couple that with its crime investigation and out-of-this-world assassins, there is something for everyone.

The Mythology

The series starts off with a bang and never looks back.  It does so convincingly because the creators have a distinct plan for the show.  Every element introduced in the series feels decisive and with a purpose.  Don’t let its premise fool you; Chew has plenty of meat to its mythology.

This is a series that has found incredible success recently.  After reading a few issues, it’s clear why.  In addition to originality, Chew has the artistic flare and witty writing to back up its crazy story.  You won’t want to put this bad boy down.

Alex and Izzie

I’ll say this, the writers did the best they could given the circumstances.  In a way, Izzie has been highly capitalized as a mystery that viewers need to come back in order to figure out.  However, the end of Izzie and Alex is really more of a blessing for Alex.  After all, he is a man who stayed with his cancer-ridden wife, and that is after all the crappy childhood.  Alex is finally starting to realize his worth and it is all thanks to Izzie, but it also means goodbye for Izzie.  In truth, her character has been in decline since season 3.  Despite the magnificence of the Izzie/Denny storyline, her time on Grey’s Anatomy is over, and her parting gift is a better, healthier Alex Karev.

Mark and Lexie

As the cute, sometimes comical couple of the show, the sudden tone change is very damaging for the couple.  When you mix an immature, emotionally stunted man with a woman still growing out of her youth, it’s tough to take their problems seriously.  Since they rarely dish out serious problems for the couple, their potential break-up does not resonate as much as some of the stronger couples on the show.  Once upon a time, Mark and Lexie seemed to be an escape from the other melodramatic couples on the show.  Those were the good days…

Callie and Arizona

Is it me or are they far healthier than the heterosexual couples on the show?  What Arizona and Callie does so well is their ability to entertain without falling into the patterns of other couples.  They retain a sense of excitement and youthful giddiness without looking childish.  They are healthy and in love; let’s hope it stays that way.

Derek and Meredith

The shocking thing is that they seem incredibly real this season.  Their maturity and their constant battle to balance their professional and personal life is both familiar yet intriguing.  After all, this is Derek and Meredith.  In this episode, they play a complicated mindgame with each other in order to legitimize their ambitions and their commitment to each other.  No longer do I have the creeping feeling that they will break up in the near future.  Instead, Derek and Meredith can finally be a couple who overcomes their problems.

Cristina and Owen and Teddy

With the cooling down of Alex/Izzie and the growing maturity of Derek/Meredith, the iconic couple of the show right now absolutely falls onto the shoulders of Cristina and Owen.  Thanks to a little dose of Teddy Altman, Cristina and Owen retain the sexual tension that made Derek and Meredith so popular in the olden days.  They are the couple who has many, many obstacles in their way, yet nothing seems more passionate than their final embrace.  Of course, Teddy’s involvement in this strange love triangle is what makes the entire storyline so fascinating.  This is what Grey’s Anatomy attempted to do with Izzie/George/Callie but failed miserably.

‘I Like You So Much Better When You’re Naked’ challenges every couple on Grey’s Anatomy and for the most part, delivers.  Sure, these characters are no longer the floundering, confused and adolescent children from Season 1, and the transition is very clear in this episode.  However, I am starting to see the payoff of such a change.

Rating: 8.8/10

The Summary

While I usually hate flashback episodes, this one was somewhat tolerable simply because of the nature of the show.  When you start to add up the Dwight moments, the Jim/Pam moments, the Creed moments, the sexual harassment moments and the general over-the-top spirit of the show, the flashback is a nice and quick reminder of just how funny The Office is.  In essence, the episode’s worthiness comes down to the loyalty of the viewer.

The New Year

The downside to this is that after a long break, the last thing people want is a clip show to start off the new year.  While the new footage still retains the humor and dysfunction of The Office, viewers are left with only a sample of what they’ve missed rather than the full entree.  Add to the fact that Jim and Stanley are missing in the new footage, the episode suddenly feels crippled by the bad timing.

While I laughed heartily at the flashbacks, ‘The Banker’ is throw-away episode with little value in the long haul, especially since fans have to wait another week for new material from The Office.

Rating: 6.5/10