We’re just about in full swing now and I don’t know about you but my watch list is already on overdrive (which means more cuts to come). But before we get there, let’s look at the best and worst of this week’s returns:
Best Hiatus Returns-
The Originals-
The moment this spin-off was announced, I was very excited—the Original Family had long since usurped the main characters on The Vampire Diaries as my favorites (save for maybe Caroline). And while I have loved the first season so far, my biggest issue with the show was that the female characters were on the periphery of the action. Rebekkah, in particular, never quite had a story to dig in to. No longer. This episode finally set up to pull Rebekkah, Davina, and Cami (who thus far felt like the show’s most useless character) into the center of the action. No more waiting on the sidelines, they are stepping up. This episode also set up some bigger picture mythology, something I love in The Vampire Diaries and in fantasy shows in general.
Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.-
This show has been uneven since it’s premiere (great pilot, awful episode 2, and then up and down from there). While the show has taken some time to find its footing, this episode (and a recent announcement that Thor‘s Lady Sif will be making an appearance) has set up for some exciting things to come. Not to mention the twist that, in retrospect, I should have seen coming, but didn’t. Also, I love seeing FitzSimmons as the “cool” kids. The best episodes are those that deal with SHIELD’s training and infrastructure and I hope to see more of that.
Switched at Birth–
This show is great for so many reasons, filled with unique and interesting dynamics to investigate, allowing for so many story lines I have never seen on TV before (an entire episode told without speaking, anyone?). [SPOILER ALERT] Daphne is facing the aftermath of her rebellious, illegal actions, which, in addition to community service, involves her birth father, John, giving her the silent treatment. John is being a terrible parent, the way he is treating her, but I guess most parents would not know how to react to their daughter blackmailing a political figure. It was heartbreaking to listen to Daphne’s fears that John hates her and might kick her out (side note: I love seeing Toby and Daphne bond, now Toby go speak to your Dad). It’s a sign of her life growing up that this is something she truly thinks might happen—even though her family would never let that happen.
Most Disappointing Return-
Shameless-
Now, let me preface this by saying I found this episode disappointing only in comparison to other episodes of the show. It was not unenjoyable, it just wasn’t…Shameless. Mostly, it felt too tame. I’m finding Deb to be less endearing and more irritating these days, but hopefully she’ll figure out who she is sooner rather than later and be a bit less whiny. I am hopeful that this episode was just setting up for an exciting season to come.
New Series Premiere Rundown-
Last week I talked about the new shows Intelligence, The Assets, Killer Women, and Chicago PD. For this week, I looked at Enlisted, Helix, Bitten, Spoils of Babylon, and True Detective. Here are my thoughts:
Enlisted (FOX)-
Randy, Pete, and Derrick Hill are all assigned to rear detachment—they maintain the base while other soldiers are deployed overseas. The assignment gives the brothers, who followed in their father’s footsteps to enlist, a chance to bond. I am sorry to lose Parker Young on Suburgatory, but he plays almost the same character here, so can we get a #RyanShayLives campaign going? At this point, the show elicits more of an amused smile than any laugh out loud moments, but there is definitely potential. (Or maybe I just love all the Toy Story talk and the play on cooking contests in episode 2.) Unfortunately, given the ratings, this show will not have the opportunity to get there.
Verdict: If you’re willing to put the time into a sure cancellation, enjoy it while it lasts.
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