General Recap

It’s been a while since I’ve really written about anything but Hellcats, so quick comments it is:

Gossip Girl- Who else felt the urge to jump up and dance when they realized that Jenny was pretty much gone. As an added bonus for this episode, Vanessa was MIA. The Chuck-Blaire-Jenny storyline was actually fantastic (and the only reason why bring Little J around is worth it is that she seems to attract scheming) and leaves the show wide open for new ideas. (Could it really have been that easy and that quick to end the Chuck-Blaire war?) Is anyone else sick of Serena’s plot lines? What I once found interesting about her character was how she was this out of control party girl who was trying to change, but that lasted only a little while. Now, her only story lines revolve around fighting with her mom (which is somewhat interesting) and sleeping with boys (which is getting lame). Everyone else has other problems of one sort or another, can’t she have some other issues?

90210- While Annie remains the most annoying character on the show, Naomi had become incredibly compelling of late. EW recapper may dislike seeing the softer side of Jenn, but I found it endearing that while she may be okay with messing with her sister, no one else better hurt her. It’s like a really screwed up version of the typical sibling relationship. I will say that the Ivy-Laurel-Oscar situation is more disturbing than anything else. Poor Ivy. Maybe we’re finally getting deeper into her character? I almost felt bad for Adrianna but aside from the fact that I don’t know how she possibly thought she wouldn’t get caught, she has now made her bed…As for Liam, stuck in the house of stalker-girlfriend should be interesting and you knew it was coming when he asked no questions before accepting. Meanwhile, where was Teddy, make Silver more interesting, get rid of Navid, and wonder about Dixon.

Chuck- People, if you are not watching this show, you are really making a mistake! This episode, dealing with Chuck’s mom was so interesting. I love how this show always examines the idea of family vs honesty. When you’re in the spy game, who can you really trust? Biggest complaint of the show: everyone keeping secrets from Ellie. I don’t know about anyone else, but I think she can handle it. And I think she can kick butt if given the chance. Plus Awesome has been missing for the past few episodes, which is sad. Casey using Grimes as bait though, genius.

Glee- Rolling Stones thinks the Rocky Horror episode was one of its best episodes. It may be true. But as someone who had never seen Rocky Horror (I associate it with the creepy kids who used to walk around in lingerie for the activities fair in college), it was just ok. I mean, it was fun, but it wasn’t anything special either. Adam Shankman did an excellent job though. I will say that the idea of having adults in the play was pretty disturbing and I didn’t find the scene between Emma and Schu to be any better. Time and place people!

Better With You- despite my earlier critique, this show has actually grown on me. The scenes seem to be a bit longer (or maybe I’ve just gotten used to them) and the show has hit its stride. Maybe not the best comedy out there, but it definitely has some good moments.

Raising Hope- this show has actually grown on me as well. Every grandmother scene makes me cringe, but otherwise, I like where things have gone. They’re still all incredibly stupid, but somehow it has become more endearing than annoying. (Take this week’s Halloween episode: The dad spent years scaring his son on Halloween so that his son would come home and hug him because he never hugged him anymore. There’s something oddly sweet about how screwed up that is.)

No Ordinary Family- Another show that more people should be watching. The show has started pushing into the realm of the bigger mythology aspects, which is always exciting, but the family drama is pretty solid as well. Daphne right now is pretty lame and could use something more interesting, but the others are much better to watch. EW seems to think JJ was on the road to evil because he kept his powers a secret and used them to get on the football team and do well on tests. The issue has sort of been relieved this week, but personally I disagree with the assessment. Everyone else used their abilities to succeed in sports or academia or some other area, why shouldn’t he? Should he not do well in school despite his ability to do well now, not get into a good school, and not put himself into a position where in the future he might be able to cure cancer or something simply because he has a special ability? I find his making the football team less plausible because even if you can read all the angles, having the ability to throw well enough or far enough or run far enough requires more than a superbrain. We never got the impression that JJ was particularly fit. In fact, they kept talking about how small he was, so how is it that when he got tackled by someone twice his size he was totally fine?

The Event- This show seems to be getting as many complaints as it gets viewers, but I haven’t been as bothered. Sure, it was annoying to have Sophia locked up because she was relegated to the role of “I can’t tell you the truth but I want to be your friend” and nothing more. It was a little frustrating to see Layla be little more than the damsel in distress, but I don’t think that her escape attempt was undermined by the fact that they planned it. Not everyone would have taken the opportunity to even try. And earlier she made an attempt without them planning it. Not to say it isn’t nice to see her out and free. Let’s just hope she gets to play a stronger role now.

Survivor- compared to the epic season last year, this one has been a relatively calm and lame one. I am not sure why they thought it was a good idea to have a young vs old season. Not to say that no old people can do well in this game, but a less physically demanding set of challenges gets boring after a while. Then there’s the question of what some people are thinking. Marty giving up his idol at the promise that he’d get it back next week, Naonka attacking a handicapped person with such fervor that you wonder if it was her religious calling, Sash not watching his tongue at tribal council…I love Jeff Probst’s comparison between Brenda and Parvati. He makes some good points. I think Parvati definitely has to be considered one of the, if not the best, player to have ever played the game. If I could vote on one player for them to bring back, Parvati would be it (though I hope she watched the last season’s tribal and learned what she should have said), though I think she’s done so well in the past that she might get voted out first just to make sure she isn’t a threat. There’s no one as polarizing and compelling this season as in others. I will say that seeing Alina cry actually made her more endearing. The only reason I don’t think it was an act was because normally we’d see a confessional with her saying so.

Caprica- not much to say here other than it’s a shame this show is going off the air (and bizarre that they are doing another Battlestar spin off considering the lackluster success of this one). The show has some solid points, though I wish it focused more on Zoe because it always felt like she was smarter and more complex than everyone else.

Vampire Diaries- Bringing Katherine into the mix and turning Caroline into a vampire were two of the best decisions this show ever made. (Clearly they were going to bring Katherine in eventually, but I’m glad it has happened.) I will say that though I really liked Bonnie in season one, she has really begun to frustrate me since her major anti-vampire crusade has begun. She, with all her history and all she’s seen, should know better than to lump all of them into one group. I’m glad Jeremy is no longer so mopey, but the truth is I’m sort of done with him. He’s never interesting except in so far as the other things going on around him.

Grey’s Anatomy- I absolutely love how this season has shaped up. Some people may say the show is past its prime but I really think this is one of its best seasons so far. Christina is a particularly fascinating case and despite my initial dislike of Torres going gay, I love her and Arizona together. I find Mark and Lexie slightly creepy because she could totally be his daughter, but she does have a good effect on him. The one thing that I feel like I’m missing right now is more Bailey time! Why has she only had a few minutes? (Still not a fan of Hunt-Yang, but fine, I won’t fight it for now.)

Private Practice- You know, a lot of people think this is just a poor imitation of Grey’s but I really find it enjoyable. Some episodes more than others. The Pete-Violet relationship is ridiculous, but I find Charlotte incredibly compelling (and can’t wait to see this storyline with her tonight) and even like how she is with Cooper. If they actually use Amelia, I think she could be an interesting character as well because she has a lot of crazy baggage. (Apparently so does Derrick, but who knew?) I’m sad that they totally dropped the ball on Betsy and kind of feel like it Sam in particular really screwed up. Dale died saving his daughter, Sam couldn’t save Dale’s? Naomi’s absence was oddly felt because this was a moment you’d expect her to be involved in. And have quite the say in. I would love to see Betsy back in a few years, totally screwed up and angry at them. Knowing Shonda Rimes, I wouldn’t count that possibility out.

Dexter- Julia Stiles welcome back! She has been fantastic as Lumen this season and the way her character interacts with Dexter is fascinating. I love Deb and hope her story picks up a bit. Frankly, it’s time her story be about something other than boys. I’m not sure what since she’s already done the victim thing and already worked for the job she wanted, but something’s gotta happen. What do you think would happen if she found out about Dexter and her dad?

Brothers and Sisters- I’m not sure why people are so upset with this current season. While I find Sarah to be a lamer version of herself, Nora as talk show host is just fantastic. The newest Kevin-Scotty drama is both endearing and upsetting. Just when I was starting to really like Scotty. I’ve never cared for Kitty so her story is neither here nor there for me, but I would be okay with getting rid of Luc. (Some people may find the accent thing sexy, for me it just gets annoying.) But even with these many issues, I still find the show compelling. It always has a couple good tearjerker moments and I love the family’s banter. I did miss Saul this week though and hope to get him back soon.

Nikita- I’m liking this show more and more as it continues (whereas I’m finding myself no longer watching Undercovers) though I still don’t find Nikita herself as compelling as I’d like. It really comes down to her protege. She is excellent in basically all she does and I can’t wait to see how they try to test her next. I also wonder how long her identity can remain a secret. Nikita employs a large degree of “idiot plot” (the only reason Alex’s cover works is because everyone around her, despite being a highly successful secret ops organization, is apparently too stupid to see her sending constant outgoing messages and being in the computer lab when she shouldn’t be. (Idiot Plot is my new favorite term.)

Project Runway- Ah the finale. While this season wasn’t nearly as compelling as some others (Heidi really needs to learn what the phrase “throwing someone under the bus” actually means and the talent was disappointing), there is enough there to pique my interest. The final runway this week should be interesting at least since they’ve got the three designers with the most distinct visions competing. It does seem unimaginable that Mondo won’t win, but hard to say for sure.

America’s Next Top Model- Ann’s awkwardness has finally found its weakness. We always knew what it was but it was well highlighted this week. Meanwhile, Kayla is excellent and I really hope she keeps strong. She might be my favorite, weird hair color makeover and all. Not many other girls who I find particularly great (oddly, all the international versions seem to get the more interesting and breathtaking girls). I don’t love commercial weeks. At the very least, I appreciate them having a photograph at the end as well and wish they’d opted to do that this season.

Anyway, that’s about everything. Any shows I missed? What have you been thinking about this season’s shows?

Disney Princesses and Gone with the Wind?

The designers are thrilled by the long amount of time and money they are given for this challenge. My immediate thought, of course, is what else will they be asked to make. Because never are the designers given a gift like that without a catch. Sure enough, Tim comes in to tell them they must make a second outfit to compliment their high end look. The designers are inexplicably shocked by this news. Guys, this is season seven! This isn’t exactly unheard of. In fact, had there been no second outfit, I would have been shocked. That being said, I do feel like it’s time someone told the producers that giving the designers such a small amount of time doesn’t really make the show exciting. If anything, it frustrates me that they never have enough time to actual execute their ideas. (Not to say there should never be challenges with time crunches, but must there always be one?) I also don’t like how little time they get with their models. Why can’t they have some time with them earlier on as well? (And why can’t they properly measure their new models on their own rather than just receive cards that never seem to be quite accurate anyway?) It’s funny to see how much Michael C and Gretchen loath each other. All they do is bash each other to the point where it’s hard to know who to trust. After such a lame showing last week, I’m at least hoping for a better runway showing this week. (The $20,000 prize and ad feature might have inspired them at least.)

It feels like April has finally hit her stride. I guess she learned after the awful diaper. She might want to watch all the black because it will get her in trouble in fashion week though.

Mondo’s look is interesting but his ready to wear look is SO plain. Couldn’t he have used colors at least?

Ivy’s dress looks like the prom dress Tim warned her about but I do like the colors. Her ready to wear look is a little better at least. Why is she here though? She’s not really put anything good out yet.

Michael C’s look is well fitted but the train is a bit of a train wreck. Ready to wear is stronger.

Christopher, what is that couture look exactly? Not sure the ready to wear look is really connected to the couture one, but it’s definitely the better look.

Gretchen, the looks it so OLD. She thinks it’s her best work ever but I’m with Michael C here. The ready to wear is equally sad.

Valerie’s isn’t as bad as she’s making it out to be though what is the connection with her ready to wear look which is sort of dull and not super flattering. (The more you see the white dress the less you like it though.)

Andy’s look is an experience. There’s no other way to describe it. Not sure I love the ruffles but it’s certainly got a point of view. Ready to wear is sort of basic but I could see Heidi in it.

Christopher and April are safe. I kind of though April would be in the top and Christopher in the bottom but the judges clearly didn’t agree. Ivy, Valerie, and Michael have the lowest scores. I’m a little surprised that Michael C is in the bottom but not surprised about Valerie and Ivy. Gretchen in the top is surprising though I expected Andy and Mondo up there.

Gretchen’s Critique- Kors thinks Gretchen’s couture look is ready to wear. He doesn’t like the hair though because it is costumey. Heidi likes the back best and wishes maybe it was the front. Garcia liked the makeup. Effortless look. (I really didn’t love this one…) Slits were “Heidi-high.”

Andy’s Critique- solid detailing. Kors like that the metallic isn’t so obvious and he loves the boot-pants. As does Nina. Heidi loves his craftsmanship but not the high fashion look. Plus it’s unique because it’s pants!

Mondo’s Critique- (got a kaleidoscope inspiration) Heidi loves the hat. Compliments on the makeup. Kors thinks the gown was too short and Nina thinks the fabric choice is inexpensive. Kors thinks the back is surprising and dreamy. Nina loves the color. Skilled at construction.

Ivy’s Critique- (Hawaii inspired) Kors thinks they look like bridesmaid under the sea. Nursey looking cut on top. (Watch out for dagger stares from Ivy.) Nina thinks she made her model look ancient. Heidi likes the back better but it’s messy.

Valerie’s Critique- (Audrey Hepburn inspired) unimaginitive and forced. Kors said it was too structured for such soft silks. Nina thinks it looks like Ms. Guatemala from a beauty pageant. She questions her taste. The only possible accessory she can use with the couture look is a wand. Valerie doesn’t even fight it.

Michael C’s Critique- he worked well with the fabric but the proportions need a lot of work. Choose boobs or legs for the cocktail dress! Kors thinks his skills were well done but the bottom of the hem (which I did not notice before) is weird and the train and style are Scarlet O’Hara-like. Dress is salvage-able at least.

The Winner…Mondo! (Which he earlier said he wanted for alcohol but really it’s to go into the bank account that had only $14.)

The Loser…(and this was a close race for most hideous…) Ivy. (It’s about time really.) For a moment there, I almost believed they would kick Valerie out too! Wouldn’t that have been exciting and shocking! They’ve never done an unannounced double elimination before.

Project Runway

Is it just human nature to make things about boys vs girls? Like why did the women left in project runway decide it was time for more men to go home. How is gender relevant here?

Who calls her Jacqueline kennedy? And what does she have to do with sportswear? I would never think of what she wore as sportswear. Doesn’t that involve like…athletic clothes? But I’ll take tim’s word on it.

Ps judges, it’s not throwing someone under the bus if you’re telling the truth about why something got ruined. It’s called explaining. Of course, if you were using them as the sacrificial lamb and lying about them in the hopes that they get sent home that’s a different story but if it’s just to keep yourself from going home by explaining the truth, I don’t consider that throwing someone under the bus? I am also officially tabooing that word from the show. Really judges, you cannot say it again.

What was the advice tim gave Gretchen? “leader, you’re leading” while in the fabric store.

Some people may think Monday saying fabric speaks to him is weird but I have a friend who says the characters she writes speak to her, so I guess it’s comparable.

I think it’s funny how everyone complained about gretchen’s meddlings but they still all seem to ask her opinion. She seems to actually be helpful though and it seems less bothersome now. (So much for her strong start she’s been meh since the first two challenges. That’s the rule though, you can never start as the front runner and actually win. That’s like reality rule number one or something.) anyone else notice though that she always seems to be talking. Does she ever actually work?

Can something be too edgy? One of the designers worry about whether or not their design is “too edgy.” Can’t remember her name, she’s the one who has been in the top but can’t seem to win. She’s also the one who Michael said has been using a bad color pallet which makes me wonder how she’s been in the top each week then. (Oh, Valerie.)

The models have been all but forgotten this season which tells you just how badly models of the runway must have done.

I love how Gretchen says she doesn’t think ivy is one of the more forward designers but that’s ok not everyone has to be. The designers all seem to smack talk each other more than any other season. I don’t know if that’s just because they’ve been cutting it in more or if they’re actually just meaner. (most reality shows do seem to get meaner and more cut throat as they continue. Just look at survivor, they want to vote out the girl with the artificial leg in the beginning for fear that she will garner sympathy votes in the end)

Why should ivy have to make a jacket to go over a jacket? That doesn’t seem right?

Michael C, you and Gretchen can use the same fabric, there’s not any problem with that. I’ve never thought his designs were win-worthy but it’s also hard to see on tv how “unskilled” he is at sewing.

What is that outfit mondo’s wearing on runway day that makes him look like a five year old boy and why do the other designers like it? I’m beginning to question all of their taste.

Camel toe is the lewdest term ever. Too descriptive for its own good.

This was something of a disappointing week with very few of the designers delivering anything making them worthy of being called designers.

General Recaps

Pretty Little Liars- This has definitely taken the spot of show of the summer. It’s one of those oddly addictive shows where you can’t help but keep watching. A part of me was really into it, wanting to know who A was (we never actually saw Allison’s body, so there’s every possibility A is her) and the other part was frustrated. For one thing, the show was suffering from the “awful main character” syndrome that seems to be an issue with a number of ABC Family show–Amy of Secret Life, Emily of MIOBI. I find Aria’s entire story utterly uninteresting. Her parents are going through a pretty awful divorce and all she can think about and be upset about is the teacher she’s obsessed with. The other big issue I had is the fact that the actresses are fairly awful. But I do like Hannah and to a slightly lesser extent Emily and the tension building from episode to episode was well done, even if not every individual plot line was.

Huge- I might only like this because I like Nikki Blonsky, but I’ve enjoyed this show (and I think Blonsky will be singing this week!!!). Not the best show of summer, but not bad either. I particularly like the most recent bit of information about Will’s past, though the one character I’d really like to see more about is Shay. We’ve only learned a little about her and she’s such a crazy character that I want to know more about where she’s coming from.

Melissa and Joey- Entertainment Weekly summed this show up perfectly. It’s like being in an episode of “I Love The Nineties.” The show is completely formulaic and not particularly surprising or funny. ABC Family doesn’t seem to do half hour comedies well and this show surprised me considering how well their one hour teen dramas are doing. It just didn’t seem to fit. My friend says they’re trying to capitalize on the people who liked the movie Melissa Joan Hart and Joey Lawrence starred in and also perhaps target the nostalgic twenty-somethings who watch the channel and then pretend not to. I get the strategy, but the show just doesn’t cut it.

Royal Pains- This show has sort of hit a plateau, which isn’t to say it’s bad, but only to say it hasn’t gotten any better. I’ll be honest and say that I like Dr. Emily Peck as well as Paige, though both characters interrupt the main character romances that were set up in season one (you know, the will they won’t they that was Ross and Rachel but is now Hank and Jill, Divya and Evan). I like how Evan’s growing up somewhat and I find Hank to be a little too perfect. I’d like to see more facets of his personality beyond “hi, I’m perfect.”

Covert Affairs- It’s like Alias without the mythology stuff (thankfully, because despite my like for Lost and its mythology, the Alias stuff just didn’t stick for me). I kind of like it, though I am hoping for the show to step back for the formulaic stuff and look more at the bigger story (specifically, Annie’s love interest). Other things I’d like to see: Auggie’s action days (the recent episode with the girl he liked was pretty great), a female for Perabo to play off of (maybe a rival spy), more about Annie’s family, and more depth into the characters.

Drop Dead Diva- This show continues to surprise me. How many different story lines can you come up with about a dead person who is living in someone else’s body? It turns out, a lot of them. It may not be the best quality show out there, but it continue to churn out interesting, albeit preposterous, episodes. (Maybe a bit more insight into characters like Kim and Fred would be nice.)

Project Runway- This is quite the season. I’m not sure if or how the extended format affects things or even helps things, but I’m not complaining either. This season is a pretty good one. I think there are a few really talented designers, though there are others that are just ridiculous (the diaper shorts?). The first episode was ridiculous with its “you’re not on the show yet” challenge. Why was everyone freaking out? Are you on camera? Are you competing in a challenge? Then by definition, you are on the show. The benefit is in theory, the girl who got kicked off in that first episode should be able to tryout for the show again. What I greatly enjoyed though did not necessarily agree with, was Tim’s dressing down of Gretchen this week. Sure, she’s arrogant and hot headed, but to say that she bullied them into listening to her was unfair and from what we saw, untrue. She didn’t force anyone to do anything. We didn’t even see much arguing. And now, the cast that already hates her is bound to turn mean. And yeah, she’s pretty full of herself but her record did (at the time) kind of give her a right to be.

Weeds- Well, this show just continues to take strange turns. I know the writers think it’s a great idea to ditch everything and start over, but I miss the dynamic of the original seasons and the rest of the cast beyond the Botwins. And the whole mallet murder…yeah, I don’t even know what to do with that. Still enjoyable but perhaps straying father than I would like?

Leverage- This past week’s episode really showed off just how excellent the writing talent on this show is. Basically, we see the tale of how a specific dagger was “stolen” through the eyes of each of the characters before they had met and worked together. The brilliance of this was showing how each person’s memory was the same, but different. Little details, accents, etc all highlighted the individual characters, their abilities, and the overall dynamics. Even though they’ve turned to good, they still take pride in their abilities and their pasts. I for one would love to keep learning more about them. Though I don’t think they can quite utilize this specific format again (what are the odds that they all foiled each other on another heist?), I hope they find a way to use a variation of it. At the same time, I love how we’ve seen a number of episodes that highlight particular characters. Always strongest for me are the ones about Parker (since they’re the only ones, besides Nathan, where we delve into the characters’ pasts as well as their psyches), which we’ve had a few of lately. I hope to learn more about all of the characters. I will say that I miss Jeri Ryan on the show, not that I want her to replace Sophie, but maybe as an occasional guest spot or addition.

So You Think You Can Dance- Did you see it coming? Lauren Froderman beating out Kent Boyd? There’s only one reason this did not surprise me. My friend has a theory that the contestant who is set up as the clear winner from the beginning (of any reality show, not just SYTYCD) is virtually never the actual winner of the show. Perhaps the audience doesn’t like being forced into a decision or the contestant gets to cocky or just doesn’t show growth because they are already so strong, but for whatever reason, it seems to be true. (I can’t think of examples off the top of my head right now, but I’ll come back with them.) I for one am glad because Kent couldn’t seem to manage the few things the judges asked of him in terms of improvements whereas Lauren seemed to get better by the week without ever really misstepping.

Psych- I’m noticing one particular thing missing for me this season. Specifically, that is the heart of the show. Where are the emotional aspects? What happened to the will they won’t they dynamic of Juliette and Shawn for example? Can we learn more about Spencer’s mom or maybe Juliette and Lassiter’s pasts? It’s still entertaining but it’s not quite as solid as it used to be.

Rachel Zoe Project- What is with the obsession over Taylor? Whether or not she actually stole some clothes (which really just doesn’t make sense for a number of reasons), get over her. It’s like not a moment can go by without them mentioning her and usually bashing her. Yeah, she was a whiner, but are you really pretending she didn’t ever do any work? I’m not even sure why I enjoy the show but I do and I’m looking forward to seeing more of Ashley. The truth is, even without Taylor, there is still chaos, but it does seem to be more outer office chaos rather than internal (but then again, Rachel is healthy, which is a change, and she is not putting an employee in the unfair and awkward position of choosing who gets to go on a trip).

Rookie Blue- Another actress I’m enjoying these days is Missy Peregrym. I like that her face is actually expressive. You don’t need the camera to zoom in as close as possible in order to get a sense of how her character is feeling. Not every plot is excellent, but a lot of them are. It would be nice to get to know more about Gail because right now she’s ridiculous and I would love to know more about each of their pasts. I like watching the rookies blunder, I like things about training and learning. If anything, I’d like some flashbacks of them actually training.

Burn Notice- Aside from not believing that Fiona and Michael are as attractive as they’re meant to be, I’m not enjoying this show as much as I did in previous seasons. I think the main reason is that it feels like the same arguments are rehashed every episode and the emotional element that I mentioned was missing in Psych is also lacking in this one. I hope it gets better, because this new story with Jessie finally knowing the truth could be interesting.

The Secret Life of the American Teenager- Do you think Adrian is going to have a miscarriage? That’s the only other storyline that I think could be really interesting since they’ve lost the opportunity to do the abortion plot (not that I’m surprised). All the other storylines, meh. I’m glad to see a little less whining from Amy though.

Large-Scale Review

Heroes- So the current season’s part two is now in swing and what do we think about it? Not a fan of this whole Claire as a lesbian thing. As I’ve said before, I don’t mind people being gay, I mind when shows make someone gay just for the sake of having a storyline. If a character is gay they should actually be gay, not just a sudden “new thing” to try out. I think the story about Hiro being slightly out of his mind was pretty funny. I’m frustrated by the Sylar storyline because he had the opportunity to find love and be with someone with Elle and then he just killed her, so it feels like this storyline has been done and over again. And the Samuel in love thing was forced. Crazy stalker!

Castle- This was a great episode, dealing with Beckett’s mom’s murder but leaving it open-ended so that we know there’s more mystery to come. Not much else to say since the show isn’t super deep or anything but though Beckett is slightly funny looking, they’re dynamic works so well. (I love Nathan Fillion!)

White Collar- I’m not sure how I feel about this newest Kate bit since it feels like such a build up for such a let down. But I get the sense that there’s more coming with that and maybe what they have us thinking about Kate now isn’t the entire truth.

Human Target- Having watched two episodes now, I am no more pleased than I was with the first episode. There just isn’t enough personality and heart in the show to make me care. (I will say that I have this suspicion that the bad guy–girl–of this last episode may not be as dead as she seems. What are the odds that she had a parachute under that jacket?)

Friday Night Lights- I don’t think this season is as good as the previous ones. The newer characters are not very interesting and Julie, as the only real carrying over high school student, remains as dull as ever. And now the racial tension stuff feels a little over the top.

Burn Notice- I’m thrilled that Fiona is still there (not that I ever expected otherwise). I felt so bad for his mom in this episode and she made some good points. How do you decide whose life you can ruin?

Bones- I didn’t like the part about Booth’s obsession about it not being JFK though I understand the reasoning, it’s naive of him to think that the US has no secrets. Not that I’m paranoid like Hodgins but I’m sure there are some things they don’t want us to know or that they keep secret for reasons of security. But it was sweet of Bones to lie (even if it isn’t logical).

Grey’s Anatomy- So…welcome back Izzy. I’m kind of proud of Alex and a little irritated at Mark for being angry at Lexi. Arizona and Calley are super-cute and even though making her gay was also a little forced, they’re a cute enough couple to make up for it.

Private Practice- Wooahh Naomi. That’s all I can really say.

Vampire Diaries- I’m not sure how I feel about this newest episode. Elena was still a whiny baby, not that I was expecting much more. Stefan was still dark and broody (though interesting to see his history with Bonnie’s family). I’m kind of glad Damon got beaten up. Sad about Gina Torres though.

Project Runway- This season is definitely proving better (and more talent-filled) than last’s. I don’t understand how Ping is still in the competition but maybe the producers told the judges to keep her as long as possible for entertainment’s sake? I guess I’m okay with that for now, as long as someone truly awesome doesn’t get booted in her place.

Legend of the Seeker- Another good episode this week. I’m not quite sure how I feel about Sister Nikki taking all of his powers since that cuts out a large portion of the book (either they’ve completely changed everything about the rest of the book series or Richard needs to get his magic back which may mean that Nikki dies). I guess they decided they had to make the han-acquirement more TV friendly because it is WAAAY more gruesome in the book, but I understand, it is syndicated TV. Don’t love Leo but I do like Cara’s interaction with him so good and bad for the new seeker. And if they are returned to Richard then what? My final question: if prophecies just appear on the walls does that mean we won’t be seeing Nathan Rahl ever? That would be a shame.

Total Recap

With so many shows coming back this week and last (and one of my best friends coming in from Chicago to visit) I’m somewhat behind on my TV shows, so I’m writing a general recap of the shows I’ve seen:

Chuck- so glad this show is finally back. The will they won’t they dynamic of Sarah and Chuck isn’t as good as it used to be since they basically were together for a bit and Sarah sort of feels like a sulking baby. I would love for us to learn more about Sarah. Few people can completely cut ties with their past and I’d like to see her slip up with something that is less about Chuck and more about her.

How I Met Your Mother- Neil Patrick Harris singing and dancing, about suits! Need I say more? It’s like everything you could ask for and more. While the Consummate Consummator didn’t win a Golden Globe, he’s still pretty awesome in my book. The other characters were a little dull this episode but it’s hard to compete with Barney.

Better Off Ted- though not quite as good as other episodes, this show is still too good to be canceled. The Veronica-Rose dynamic is definitely the best thing the show has to offer and I hope we see more of it. How many ways can you corrupt a child?

Leverage- one of the more exciting returns in my mind, this episode was truly one of the greats because it managed to surprise you. Jeri Ryan’s character is much more interesting than Sophie and, while I miss the British accent, I prefer Ryan’s less prinicipled mentality. It’s nice to have one semi-honest thief within the group of honest thieves. Besides, seeing her develop into an honest person is interesting. The others have to rub off on her right? (Can we get more Parker-Hardison please!)

Ugly Betty- this week’s episode was the one I saw them filming! With rumors of Daniel and Betty getting together, a lot of people are upset. While I’m not a fan of the pairing, I am in no way surprised considering that Betty has so profoundly helped him change. At the same time, it’s nice to see a guy and girl be very close and not romantically involved for a change. I sort of kind of a little bit felt bad for Wilhemina. I was proud of Mark for his work with Daniel (promotion anyone?). I didn’t care all that much about Betty and Mark, largely because I’m not a Mark fan. He was mostly a jerk to Betty.

Dollhouse- great episode. These last few have really been some of the best yet and I can’t wait to see the finale next week, in a sad but excited way. Sort of the way I felt about the 7th Harry Potter coming out.

Ghost Whisperer- yet another generic episode. Really, it’s time for the larger storyline to come into play already. There was that one great episode with the child ghost and Aiden and that’s it.

Project Runway- Glad to be back in NY, glad to have the regular judges back (this reminds me, how awesome was it when Tim Gunn guest starred on HIMYM this week? “Sorry Barney, I can’t make it work.”). I think the talent this season looks pretty high though I have some serious disagreements with the decision of the first episode. That and I wonder why Nicole Ritchie was on the show. Who is she to be judging fashion?

Legend of the Seeker- I was wondering when the Sisters of the Light would show up. I’m a little disappointed in the way they made the split since it was so much more dramatic in the book but otherwise I think that part was mostly well done. I don’t really like the most recent Denna plots but she’s not super important so that’s ok. Anyone else notice Kahlen’s new clothing? Way cooler looking that before. And certainly more flattering though still not the most practical.

That’s it for now, more to come.

Project Runway

This is my wonderings about the show:

I was wondering today how much money is actually spent on making the show. I mean, they buy some fabric, pay the camera crew, the writers (though I imagine less than writers who write out the entire episode script), fabric, and maybe the judges get paid. The models are competing as well so no payment, no real cast, if they’re smart they’ve arranged some sort of deal with places like Mood since it’s a lot of publicity for the store. There’s the set, which is essentially a room, some chairs, and the plain white runway. Do they pay the guest judges?

This leads me to the question of how fashion week works. Who organizes it? Do the designers apply and get accepted or rejected? Who makes those decisions? Who pays for it? Does the show have to pay for a room for 5 designers to show (remembering that not only the top 2 or 3 show but all of them so that people don’t know who the final members are, fashion week precedes the season).

For the people who won this current season, since the show aired so much later than the actual season was filmed, does that mean the winning designer had to halt their career? Do they get the money etc as soon as a decision is made or is it reliant on the show airing? Do people (say, in the design world) know who the winner is already?

Finally, why do people always say “now the competition will get tough” whenever someone gets kicked off? The competition, those who are actually good, remain the same number post elimination. If the show starts with 4 out of 10 very skilled designers, after a few are eliminated, 4 talented designers still remain. At that point the competition isn’t really any tougher than before but the elimination is more questionable…Theoretically, they are all skilled, seeing as they’ve been chosen out of thousands to be on the show. Seeing some of the designers here and there, you have to wonder how good–OR BAD–the rest of the talent is.

Anyway, that was a bunch of random thoughts, but I really like this week’s challenge (designing characters from movie genres) but I’m disappointed in the lack of Fantasy option. Think of what a good genre that could be!

Project Runway and Models of the Runway 2

Perhaps the funniest thing about Project Runway is the way Lifetime promotes the show: “the most talked about and anticipated season ever!” Well yes, it was the most talked about and anticipated, but not because of the season or what was in store, simply because people wondered when and if the season would actually air. As for the season itself, there wasn’t really much info (as far as I had heard) about what to expect so I didn’t anticipate anything particularly exciting. Which is fine, since I’ve always enjoyed.

Having seen the Canadian, Australian, and British versions of the show, i will definitely say I like this one better. For starters, there is no one quite like Tim Gunn. Some of the mentors have felt like poor replicas of him and others are just not particularly invested. And please, replacing Heidi with Kelly Osbourne, for example? REALLY? She’s certainly never fit into the fashion forward mentality, but I guess she’s considered a fashion icon in England?

This week the challenge is a fashionable outfit for a very pregnant (like twins pregnant) Rebecca Romijn. A few of the designers seem to really struggle–there’s one that looks too much like a nightgown, another that looks like a bowling ball bag, a costumey one meant to have pants reminiscent of chicken legs (that’s right, chicken legs)…

In come the models fora fitting and it’s nothing like the contestants are used to: The models have to put on fake bellies which is funny to watch because their bodies and faces don’t match their stomachs (pregnant women tend to gain at least some weight beyond their bellies, like their breasts for example). Is it just me or are the models getting more air time than in previous seasons? Could this be because of the Models of the Runway show coming next?

I’m not sure how it happened (I think I missed a part) but the panel is all female today. Where’s Michael Kors? They’re such a quiet, calm judging group relative to other shows (certainly nothing like Tyra and crew on Top Model).

Here’s a question, with the Models of the Runway show, does that mean that every episode will use the models? In previous seasons, they are sometimes replaced with teens, or “regular women,” or men, etc. The models are nervous because the show has reformatted a little to always allow for model switches instead of in previous seasons where model changes only happened if the winning designer from the past week decided to switch.It also means the models and designers have to get along better.

The models are competing for $25,000 in addition to the photo spread.

(Sidenote: of all things I hate to hear a contestant say on reality tv the worst is “I really don’t want to go home.” Really? I thought you wanted to lose this competition!” Also, I think that’s usually a foreshadowing for the person leaving…)

Most of the models workout while a couple watch, tan, and drink. Some of the girls are frustrated by Ari who is always leaving to go on castings and stuff. (I like her. She’s the redhead.) A few of the models are foreign and Matar, the Israeli, is one of my favorites too. Favorites being relative to the fact that I can recognize like three of them…

We watch the model selection (which is no longer part of Project Runway itself–it was traditionally the first part of the episode). My issue with this second show is that we don’t really get to know the models all that well and nothing happens. But I’m not sure there’s a way to fix it either as there really just isn’t much going on here.

Project Runway and the Models of the Runway

Finally, after the long wait, Project Runway has returned to us!

I love the first episode of the series only in so far as, like Heidi Klum says, it’s always interesting to see what the designers are wearing. Their personal styles say so much about who they are and it’s always fun to get the first peak. It’s also fun to see the crazy designers who get eliminated early on because of their own bizareness.

At the same time it’s always hard to watch the beginning of the show. With sixteen designers competing, it’s near impossible to really follow everyone. Add the models into the mix and there’s 32 people (not to mention Tim Gunn, Heidi Klum, Nina Garcia, Michael Kors, and whoever the guest judge of the moment–in this case Lindsay Lohan) for us to keep track of. It’s tough. The most outlandish designers get the majority of the attention and camera time and we don’t get to know the more talented designers until later (though at times the outlandish and the talented combine to give us a lot of entertainment).

The season opener features a none-too-exciting challenge of a red carpet dress. At this point they have gone through so many challenges that I’m not surprised they can’t always come up with something creative. Although I suppose the first episode can’t be all that crazy, too much weird material to buy. And yet, despite this completely average challenge, some of the contestants manage to produce the most bizarre things.

Bringing with the new season is another show, the Models of the Runway. Now, part of why this is interesting is that we are constantly told that the models are competing as well, fighting to gain a photo spread in a magazine if they are paired with the winning designer. But we see so little of them on the show (except for Morgan, remember that crazy model?) that it doesn’t really feel like much of a competition at all and they seem pretty inconsequential. So the solution: create a show revolving around them.

Let’s be honest, the show is pretty silly. Again, sixteen people are hard to follow and the models compete only in so far as they want other people to pick them. They don’t really do anything to gain favor or be dismissed other than walk in whatever they are put in. Of course if they whine and complain they may not get chosen again (though Morgan was apparently so skilled they overlooked her wildness for a while). But otherwise, they are just pretty passive and no amount of awards for being paired with the winning designer of the episode can make the show worth watching.

So, a hit and a miss for Lifetime. I can’t wait to see what other challenges they come up with. Something about using materials found in Toys R Us or design a stylish outfit for someone who has clothing restriction due to religion?

Project Runway: The All Stars Challenge

No more The Fashion Show, the REAL fashion show has returned. They bring back 8 designers (fan favorites) to compete in a single challenge for $100,000.

The designers (in the order of their arrival):

htt- season 3 winner, he’s got a crazy looking girlfriend and has started a band in addition to his design work

Daniel Vosovic- season 2 runner up, wrote a book called Fashion Inside Out

Korto Mormolu- season 5 runner up, now has a jewelry and bag line

Uli Herzner- season 3 runner up (and one of my personal favorites)

Chris March- season 4 finished fourth, is designing Beyonce’s tour costumes

Mychael Knight- season 4, finished third, he has a fragrance line

Sweet P Vaughn- season 4, finished fifth

Santino Rice- season 2 finalist, says he “made Project Runway”

The men seem torn between wanting to say “SHUT UP SANTINO!” and laughing at him for being funny. He’s exceedingly loud and apparently even louder in real life. Each of the designers have had a lot of success since their time on the show. Heidi is pregnant again.

The contestants wake up at 6. Probably good or they’d wake up to Santino’s screaming. Their work spaces are labeled and Uli says she’d love to live there. The challnege: create a 3 look collection costing $1,200 with one dress being red carpet worthy. No one seems interested in talking as they sketch out their designs. Chris falls asleep. Then they get 45 minutes in Mood to pick out fabric. Uli doesn’t pick out any prints. Sad. Tim Gunn even comments on it. Tim says that as All Stars they should be faster than regular contestants. Sweet P and Uli worry about the similarity of the fabric. They have similar color palettes and view one another as competition.

Santino continues talking. Korto says he’s a fool. He does a good Tim Gunn imitation, though he is the most irritating person ever to be around. Santino says he’s bigger, faster, stronger, and smarter than the others. He sort of reminds me of a manic/defective tickle me Elmo. Everyone is in their own world. Santino thinks Sweet Ps looks like a sad home economics project.

In comes Tim Gunn, with a twist. Because it wouldn’t be Project Runway without.  He has a message from Nicole Kidman (insert plug for her new movie here). The red carper design is being designed for her to wear at the movie premier. So this hasn’t changed anything but it’s certainly exciting to the designers. Red carpet dresses are great publicity.

Tim comes to check out the work. Korto’s isn’t clear enough to see and Tim looks skeptical. Everyone listens carefully as Tim makes the rounds, using the chance to size up the competition. Santino is arrogant. Tim is concerned with Sweet P’s colors and agrees with Santino that it looks home sewn. Daniel says he doesn’t do “gowns.” His goal is to show something new. Listening to Mychael talk it’s clear he has no idea where he’s going. He just has to “make it work.”

Time for a model casting (which means losing sewing time). Apparently if you get the wrong model you’re screwed. Chris is falling asleep during the casting. He says “would this be Project Runway is I didn’t sleep?” Sweet P and Uli battle over models and Sweet P wins.

Back in the workroom Santino break the sewing needle for one of the machines. Jeffery has replacements but lets Santino sweat for a bit because he’s being obnoxious.

The models come in for a fitting. Uli’s models don’t show at all and she has to model herself (Chris thinks she should just do her own show). Sweet P’s are late. Santino’s hope he plans to make tops.

Heidi and Tim stop them for a surprise: a dinner celebration. None of them want to go because they’d rather work but it isn’t optional. The food is good, they all begin to relax, and then we see the real reason why they have come: the real twist. In order to make sure they can all still be innovative, they are to make a fourth piece using only things from the restaurant. They have 5 minutes to collect the raw materials. Chaos. It sounds like a bar fight. 25% of the look can consist of the fabric they already bought in order to integrate the outfit into the collection.

Watching them sew for over an hour is too long. This show definitely works best in a one hour format. In comes the hairstylist and make up artists to consult on the looks. Then Tim comes to check on their newest work. Uli is at a loss and had not begun. No one can figure out what Santino’s doing beyond running around and they don’t know if he’ll finish in time.

(Love the countdown to the new season in the corner…)

Finally time for the runway show. Most of the designers are stressed about finishing. Except Chris who sleeps on the couch. Tim sees him and holds up his hands as though to say “I give up.” Mychael just wants to know the winner already. One of Uli’s models isn’t coming so she has to deal. Santino’s look seems to be coming together now.

Time to send the models to the runway.

Heidi is not just pregnant, she’s uber pregnant, like could be carrying a toddler rather than a baby. Still looks glamorous though. Back are regular judges Nina Garcia, Kichael Kors, and guest judge Diane Von Furstenburg.

Santino’s first outfit looks sort of like Britney in the red catsuit but in a beige color. His challenge piece is the least cheesy of all. Mychael is next and his collection (looking more like a scattered idea) is ok. Flattering form but otherwise unexciting. Uli’s is very different for her, very structured. Still interesting though. Korto’s restaurant look is awesome, the dresses are good, but I don’t like the pants look. Chris’s costume i still costumey and crazy. I wish he’d cut the hoods. He’s “never been one to make clothes that people just wear.” Daniel’s is a combination of futuristic and athletic looking. Jeffrey’s hair and make up is odd looking with his but the dresses themselves are pretty nice. Sweet P’s dresses are a bit plain. I don’t like the basket dress.

Judgment time.

Nina says Mychael can make women sexy. Michael Kors doesn’t get his challenge dress.

Heidi is surprised by Uli’s. They say she matured but she also lost some of the heart and spirit.

Jeffrey’s lacked po;ish and was messy.

Santino took the easy way out, overused lycra–dress is disco swimming pool

Mychael, Uli, Jeffrey and Santino are bottom four and promptly sent packing.

Chris is shocked to be in the top 4. I’m just as shocked. Critique: the looks were overwhelming for his models.

Daniel’s side panels are dramatic and he has grown the most of the designers.

Korto aimed for expensive. Her restaurant challenge is placemats and lava rocks. I like hers best I think.

Sweet P is a bit homemade feeling. Definitely her style. Didn’t realize that the pale green dress is leather, that’s cool.

Now for the results: Chris is out first. He’s glad to finally be respected like everyone else. Sweet  P is ousted second. She’s happy and proud. And the winner is…Daniel!