7 posts tagged “chuck”

• Gossip Girl was delicious this week.  But the promos, featuring Kaitlin "Oh crap!" Cooper just made me too giddy. And I thought I was excited to see Melinda Clarke on Chuck last week. I always thought that Willa Holland and Autumn Reeser (on Pushing Daisies the same week as Missy Pyle) revitalized The O.C. Although, for me, it also may have had something to do with killing off Marissa too.
  

• So Nicole Richie was heinous on Chuck. She wasn't completely unwatchable in the beginning, but got worse as the show progressed, although the catfight was badass. I found it cute in the beginning that the radio DJ was talking about a Heather Chandler, got a hearty chuckle from that, until I realized they named Richie's mean-girl character after her. Hell, why not call her Regina George instead? Not charming. Such tributes need to be subtle and better crafted. That was worse then Agents Angus and Young on Supernatural last week (one of these days I want someone to call the Winchesters out on that, or at least blink twice at it, they aren't the only ones who listen to classic hard rock). When writing such "tributes," I consider it a gift to those who pick up on it, who know the genre well enough to get the joke, not to be hammered over the head with it.

• I still have the same issues with Pushing Daisies but an Emerson Cod episode featuring Debra Mooney as his mother? Golly gee, just for me? I still miss Everwood (although not enough to ever watch Brothers and Sisters, unless they had maybe cast Gregory Smith or Chris Pratt as the new Walker). Emerson and Olive always have the best lines, and Chi McBride sells every "Hell no!" no matter how many times he says it. My favorite Emerson-ism this week, and possible new mantra: "I've chucked my chagrin overboard." That show always plays so well with language in the diaolgue, I am often awe by the beauty of how a phrase is turned, repeating lines with dorky glee. I hope it gets at least a partial script order if not the back nine.
  

I haven't caught up with Fringe yet. Or a few others I'm saving for a lazy Sunday. On Saturday, I am helping S make a Halloween costume for Foo, and that's not as wackadoo as it sounds. Prize: free doggy daycare. And that is still not wackadoo because (a) Foo is a happier, more chill puppy when she has a day or two of daycare training a week and (b) the prize is basically freaking cash-money (otherwise Foo could just go as her badass-self). In this economy, dressing up a dog for an hour or so in a rad costume that creatively uses materials already on hand, totally worth it. Plus, her costume is going to rock socks.

I'm in the mood to chat TV. I still don't feel as if I have immersed myself enough in all things television in order to really discuss as I usually do. But I feel the need to blog, and I don't feel the need to blog about anything else right now. So here it goes, The Good, The Bad(Ass), The Ugly on my idiot box:

The Good

Holly on The Office. Amy Ryan is awesome, that's not news. But she's perfection as the yin to Michael's yang (that's what she said). I love Ryan the Temp Receptionist. I'm tired of the Dwight-Angela-Andy storyline. And I thought The Proposal was lovely and that the out-of-the-blue reality of it taking place in a gas station parking lot on a lunch break made it more romantic then any schmaltzy scene could have accomplished. It just worked. Score one for the writers.

I still like Greek. I can't help it. It's escapist TV with likeable characters and good writing. Maybe not so much in terms of story because how deep can you explore the Greek life on a college campus? But the pacing and the wit, the dialogue and one-liners (Clark Duke delivers some real gems) combine to make an enjoyable show.

Okay, I was really reluctant to watch True Blood, especially after suffering through Moonlight, regardless of HBO and Alan Ball. It took about three episodes for me to really care about it, but it has grown on me. Yes, seeing Alexander Skarsgard on my television again, even rarely with that heinous wig and "Kermit the Frog" voice (TM Jacob on TWoP), dose provide incentive to keep tuning in. I don't love all of the B-characters, Tara has grown on me, Lafayette rocks, hate Jason, and I waffle about Sam, but I realized once they killed Gran, and my jaw hit the floor at the end of that mediocre episode, I was hooked on this campy wants-to-be-offbeat-but-not-quite show. Who knows if I'll stick around for season two, but right now, I at least want to find out the identity of the serial killer.

I have been reluctant to get into another JJ Abrams show. Mostly because they all start to feel the same (the score really doesn't help that), although not like David Kelley writing the same storylines into every single show he pens (you cannot have the same weekly tale on Picket Fences and Ally McBeal and The Practice and think people will not notice). I like Fringe, love the cast, but I haven't gotten heavily invested in it yet. And because of my past with Abrams' shows (the lost seasons of Lost, the frustration with Alias), I probably won't dig too deep. I'm taking my new Lost-approach: don't give a rat's ass about the minutia and it will continue to be enjoyable.

Chuck won me over last season. Just a fun show for a Monday evening. Fun is the watchword for Chuck. Zachary Levi remains as adorable as ever. I still don't see huge sparks between Sarah and Chuck. I love the relationship between Chuck and Ellie, Captain Awesome is more awesome, and even Morgan is not as grating. I won't start about Agent John Casey because Adam Baldwin cracking wise as a G-man every week on my television makes me so giddy, I might start gushing.

I like The Mentalist, don't love it. I am really not a fan of Robin Tunney's (even pleased with her demise on Prison Break before I stopped watching seasons ago). But give me Simon Baker (kooky and cool) and Owain Yeoman (skeptical and cool), I cannot resist. My Simon Baker swoon has been mentioned before, and I watched The Guardian, Smith (should've gotten another chance), and then there was Yeoman on Kitchen Confidential (also stellar as Eric Kocher in Generation Kill too), so how am I supposed to resist this one? It's decent, enjoyable, kind of predictable but not yet as obvious or bland as The Closer. And Simon Baker smiles more in one episode than he did the entire span of The Guardian. Did I mention Simon Baker? Sigh.    

The Bad(Ass)

This week on Gossip Girl, Blair threw her purse at Serena's head after outing her murder to the Dean's reception at Yale, all because Serena showed up at Rory Gilmore's former stomping grounds and Blair's dream school, and eventually stole her answer to the Dean's stupid parlor game, courtesy of sh*t-stirring Chuck (that should be his full name because (a) that's all he does and (b) he does it so damn well). Does it get any better than that? Oh wait, it does because now there's a bromantic triangle between Chuck, Nate, and Dan that is much more interesting than any other triangle that ever involved Vanessa and as much yay! as an old episode of Smallville. And all while Dan's little self-righteousness was exposed along with his abs after Chuck sent the angry Skull & Bones boys after fake-Nate, tying boxer-clad Danny Boy to a statue on campus. Danke, Chuck. This season got off to a good start, meandered a bit with the Lord and Duchess crap, but quickly returned to form. And I just found out that my friend S is now hooked too! Unlike Veronica Mars, I had nothing to do with this one, no dvd marathons, no obsessive chattering about it (hard to believe, I know). She alerted me last week with a one line e-mail: "I am obsessed with Gossip Girl." And on that day, leelee's heart grew three sizes.

Supernatural has somehow become one of my favorite shows. I've always liked it, usually recorded and watched it, but thanks to the CW starting its season of shows early, and the cliffhanger of Dean being stuck in Hell last season, I got hooked this season. I like the new Ruby even less than I liked the old Ruby, um, not so much (I watched half an episode of Wildfire once, and it was more than enough, horrible show, horrible acting, horrible horribleness). And I haven't read any forums or posts or visited any sites where fangirls may be going wild in happiness or anger because I am not interested in that point of view. I just watch. And enjoy, more and more every week. This week's bizarre black and white tribute to monster movies was weird, strange, and yet still awesome.

What is going on with Don Draper? This season on Mad Men, he's become a little less sympathetic for me but maybe it's because the women of the show are the true shining stars. And that's the point. I still do not look forward to a finale. The season just flies by too quickly.

How much fun is Michael Imperioli having on Life on Mars? I know, all of the actors are probably having a blast on that show. Harvey Keitel is obviously making the most of his time on the small screen. But every time Imperoli shows up, he just seems to be having so much fun. It has to be a nice change of pace after six seasons of playing Tony's little cousin Chirstopha. 

The Once Bad(Ass) Sometimes Good But Maybe Ugly

I cannot get into Dexter this season. I don't know why. Well, Rita drives me crazy, now more than ever (every time Julie Benz gives that shy Rita-smile, I want Darla to snap Rita's neck), and Deb annoys me again, so that doesn't help at all. I noticed my interest began to wane last season and thought it would pick back up this season. Michael C. Hall is reason enough to watch. He's just too-too-too amazing, regardless of what I think about the stroylines.

Same goes for Pushing Daisies. Well, I know what my problem is with it. I've known all along. I don't see a single sizzle of a spark of chemistry between Chuck and Ned. Never have. And the fact that Ned pined for Chuck so much after she moved out of the apartment, Do Not Care. They have fabulous "best friend chemistry," I just see no romantic chemistry, very rarely and hardly at all, if ever. I like all the actors, but I love Chi McBride and Kristin Chenoweth and Swoozie Kurtz the most, and I think it's tough to fall for a show when the B-characters often outshine the leads. I always wondered if this show would be able to sustain an audience weekly with it's whimsical wit. I think the Tim Burton-esque charm may be starting to wear off from the fantastical MotWs and the cracks in the show are starting to, well, show. But it makes smile and usually laugh, so I keep watching.

Every time I watch Heroes, I end up losing interest about half way through, and doing something else, get on-line, read a magazine, make a phone call. Now, I'm catching up on G4 later in the week because I realize I got distracted while watching. I was really excited about the premise for this season, really inerested in the villians-themed episodes. I still need to watch lats week's episode, which I heard is an improvement, so we'll see. I want to like it, I really do. But for every character I like, there is one I hate, and not in a love-to-hate kind of way. I also think it is still a skosh overrated and always feel a bit detached from it, like it lacks the necessary bit of heart every show needs, regardless of genre. Eh, next week, I could feel the opposite. 

The U-G-L-Y

Okay, 90210 ain't got no alibi. I know, there's talk that it will be better now that the Gilmore Girls pedigree has joined the writer's room, but I just don't see how it's possible. I tried it again, twice, on nights when nothing was on and I needed to noodle out on the couch to something mindnumbing. The characters are boring. The acting is often bland (Tristan Wilds, I hope you are making serious bank on this show because you are much better then it will ever allow you to be). The stories are recycled. And the Jessica Walter abuse (now bumped to recurring) just makes me ache for the snark of Lucille Bluth. It's like One Tree Hill without the Days of our Lives storylines. Which, actually, may make it more boring than OTH.

And those gone but not forgotten . . .

I was a fan of Life last season, but I haven't gotten into it yet. Damian Lewis is the only real draw at this point, I never really latched onto much else, but he's enough with that performance. I was hoping Donal Logue would help, but I don't really care for his character much, which is truly disappointing.

I'm glad that The Sarah Connor Chronicles got the back nine last week because I miss watching it, just haven't caught up with this season's episodes yet. I guess I don't fit any "average" audience demographic since I have trouble choosing between TSCC, Gossip Girl, and Chuck. It seems like for once, the networks programmed shows against each other without incredibly overlapping core demographics, and yet I watch all three of them. Sigh.

I have been in car repair hell for the past few weeks. Totally distracted by it and other crappiness of life which is why I haven't rambled lately, or finished and/or made a ramble public.

- Did you hear the WGA Strike ended? Yeah, I am so behind that I didn't even post a proper huzzah for the picketing scribes last week. Is a late huzzah better than no huzzah at all? If a huzzah falls in the blogosphere and nobody hollas a huzzah back, um, who cares. Word of the day: huzzzzzaaah. And, no, I am not committing am HUI, huzzah under the influence. Just like the word. Anyway, it's over and time will tell if the writers are truly happy with their deal, but I'm most stoked for all of those below-the-line crew members who can now step away from the Top Ramen with the production frenzy.

- With the strike over, a few of the networks were itching to announce happy news of the renewal-kind:
 
    CBS: Yeah, I don't really watch the eye network which is why I'm sadly not surprised shows like The Big Bang Theory or Ghost Whisperer were renewed. And that's why I don't watch. The cheestastic Moonlight was not picked up but is going back into production. Same for How I Met Your Mother, the only other show I sometimes catch. Scratch that, I also have been charmed by the underrated The New Adventures of Old Christine from time to time (such a great cast). Obviously, execs will wait to see if Jericho's fans really can bring the ratings to keep it from facing the chopping block again. Liked it, didn't love it, but I wish any show with a devoted fan base much luck. Always root for the underdog!

    NBC: Well, NBC decided to give newbies Life and Chuck another shot. Excuse me for a sec. Hell YEAH, Bartowski! And it will be lovely to see Damien Lewis get another chance too, ahem. Surprise, surprise they also picked up their only ratings hit, Heroes. As for Friday Night Lights, things look dim (never pardon my puns) for one of the best shows on the telly roster. But televisionaries Ben Silverman and Jeff Zucker know what they're doing, right? American Gladiators, Knight Rider, and Bionic Woman are the future of television. But those remakes, um, wouldn't that be, aren't they, is there such a thing as a re-future? Bionic Woman didn't work out so well, huh? Rewarmed 80s shows might not be the future after all. But then American Gladiators is a hit and gets another season (sigh). Way to uphold that shiny reputation, Silverman. Did we just update our spring wardrobe to the Sonny Crockett collection too?

    ABC: The alphabet network renewed the usual ratings grabbing suspects: siblings, housewives, slutty surgeons, and flight 815. Newcomers include Dirty Sexy Money, Samantha Who?, and Pushing Daisies. Not a surprise that the Piemaker and his merry band of darlings will return, but I am interested to see if the show can continue to be charming without being gimmicky.

    CW: Not to be outdone by the big boys, the CW announced when new episodes will air of its current shows. Wait, what? Did I miss the announcement? Other than the cancellation of CW Now, anything else, former-frog-now-just-green network? New episodes soon, alrighty.

-There are two online petitions to save Friday Night Lights. Click on the shiny light bulb at the bottom of my sidebar to head over to Best Week Ever's blog devoted to saving the show and sign their petition. They have tons of suggestions for showing your support as a member of the Dillon Panthers Booster Club (what will the assistants at NBC do with cases of light bulbs?). The folks at Save Friday Night Lights also have a petition and are raising funds for customized mini footballs to send to the network.

- Joel Surnow left 24. The show was its worst last season (hell, I can't even remember most of it) so maybe it's time for a little new life to creatively revitalize it. Probably the best for Surnow and the show. Wonder what it will be like without the ultra-conservative steering the wheel? Time will tell, dink dank, dink dank.

- Ausiello's strike chart is now being regularly updated as a post-strike chart for the RETURN of shows to the telly. Five new episodes of Gossip Girl.Oh, Little J, feel the wrath of B.

-Coming Soon: my Pro/Con list for watching Rock of Love II: Barbie Hair and Botoxxx Club for Middleaged Dirtbag and Women With Rock-Bottom Low Self-Esteem. Spoiler: much like the bimbos on this show, the Pros lose.

• Chuck! Zachary Levi makes me smile. Adam Baldwin makes me smirk. It's not groundbreaking but it is fun, light, and I didn't realize how much I missed it until NBC burned off the last two episodes in one night (why, Zucker?). Geez, I was even glad to see Morgan, and cheered when he dropped some Farmer Ted on Ellie. Random John Hughes references? You have my heart, Chuck.

• Two weeks ago Friday Night Lights was like the CW of Tuesdays gone by. Matt Czuchry and Francis Capra in one episode. Yeah, Lonestar Weevil was a little over the top, but so far, Radiovangelist Logan's greatest sin is atrocious hair. Oy, those bangs are Chris O'Donnell in Scent of a Woman bad. Don't you just want to reach into the TV and mess them up? As for the show, this past Friday's episode was better of the two. It was closer to the show we met last season.

• Speaking of Veronica Mars, I think Joel Silver may have been behind the notes requesting shirtless Jason Dohring. Moonlight steered in that direction, but maybe they're just borrowing from Heroes' play book. The last three episodes, Dohring was sans shirt in two of them with Alex O'Laughlin sweatily showing how vamps stay buff to open the episode in between (not sure how cardio works for a vamp, but, umkay). In the finale, my Joel Silver light bulb flickered when it was highly unnecessary for Josef to be getting a massage from silicone enhanced extras while chatting with Mick. As for the show, well it did get more interesting toward the end but it's still only mindless fun to watch on a Sunday afternoon. Especially when laughing at the wretched Reign of Terror flashbacks in the finale. Recalling those still makes me snortle.
  

• On Project Runway, Kit going home perturbed me. Yes, her dress was like an ad for Martha Stewart linens but Ricky's ready-to-wear dress was straight off the sale rack of  5-7-9 circa 1997. This past week, Victorya's coat was a rip and she really annoyed, so fine with her farewell. Sure, Ricky shouldn't have been dismissed, although his dress wasn't all that and a trucker hat, but now he has immunity which guarantees we'll be swimming in tears for two more weeks. I liked Right Said Rami's design best (ever since he wore that black shirt with the sheer striping during the Hershey's challenge, all I think is "I'm too sexy for my shirt" during his talking heads), even if he did swipe Jeffrey's finale zipper trim detail (still love that dress, it had pockets!). Eh, I'm just glad jolly Chris is still around, even though his dress did look like something Amanda Woodward would wear to meet Jake for a beer at Shooters.

• I have decided to stop the insanity and resist Rock of Love II. Yep. That's another post, though.

• I'm not toes-over-noggin for The Sarah Connor Chronicles, but it's actiony goodness. Wasn't obsessed with the movies, so that may help. Lena Headey has made Sarah Connor her own, and Summer Glau cracks me up.
  

• Lost returns this week. I gave up on Lost about seven episodes into season two. I was heavily invested in it at the start but seriously annoyed by its finale, only to be completely dismayed by the second season. I wasn't even bitter, I just didn't care so I said bye-bye. But then I caught an episode or two last spring, and because I am a reformed spoilerwhore, became mildly interested in seeing the finale. Not giving a rat's ass made it much more enjoyable, who knew? I will probably catch the new episodes with the blight of programming.

• Jimmy is so out of control on The Wire. But who cares if it means Dominic West returns for the entire final season? Now that Lester has become his partner in faked crime, I find it hella entertaining. I love Lester as much as Bunk.
  

• The WGA made a deal with Lionsgate and now Mad Men scribes can get back to work. Maybe the summer season won't be pushed too far back in the schedule after all. Le sigh of relief.
  

• Eli Stone debuts on ABC on January 31. Reviews haven't been the best, but I'll catch it. Greg Berlanti and Ken Olin among those behind the wheel. Julie Gonzalo, Loretta Devine, and Victor Garber in the supporting cast. Random George Michael appearance (his cameo was the best of Extras' finale). The kicker, Jonny Lee Miller. What can I say? I crushed on Sick Boy and don't care that his Hackers co-star and ex-wife Angelina Jolie still considers him a soulmate. And he's not new to American TV, remember Smith? With Simon Baker? Ray Liotta? Well, I do.

• I didn't post about Heath Ledger last week. At the time, I was stunned and didn't really have anything to say about his death other than, "Oh, sweet boy, what happened?" I just saw Candy a few weeks ago and immediately hoped that his life didn't include an ounce of Dan's self-destruction. Losing him is devastatingly tragic for his family, his daughter, and his friends. It is sad for the film community, those who worked with him, and for those who enjoyed his work, whether you laughed at Patrick Verona, swooned for William Thatcher, or your heart broke for Ennis Del Mar. Looking at his IMDb profile, I realized I've seen almost all of his credited films, several of them multiple times and not because he was easy on the eyes. He was incredibly talented and a joy to watch light up the screen. I tuned out most media coverage (yes, even Defamer) but was elated to hear Joel McHale's short and perfect tribute to Ledger at the end of The Soup (heinous crap quality, but here's a YouTube link). I adore McHale not only for providing me with guaranteed laughter every week but because he doesn't cut E! or head "weasel" Ryan Seacrest any slack. Bravo, Mail Nurse, well done.
  

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. Mine was completely different this year. No cooking, no cleaning. The drama only took place on the big screen. American Gangster followed by No Country for Old Men, bucket of popcorn, Milk Duds, and a giant soda. Best. Thanksgiving. Ever.

Well, this will be short and sweet since sweeps even takes time off during Thanksgiving. It gives me more time to whip up my holiday post, but being Scrougie Grinchardson (no secret I hate winter, the holidays are like its perky cheerleaders), it won't be posted until December. Plus, I've got to catch new programming while I still can. January is going to be so bleak.

The Good

"I ain't your paps. Paps has a lady connotation." Emerson asking Olive on Pushing Daisies to puh-leeze stop referring to him as Paps, as in "what's the haps?" Thank you, E.

"Did you pack Mr. Muggles' doggie bath?" Heroes' Papa Bennet to Mama Bennet after he and West kidnapped Elle, and need to persuade Sparky to give up some info. That's right out of the Jack Bauer playbook, HRG.

This week Adam Baldwin delivered much snarky goodness on Chuck. One favorite:
Chuck: I'm in the bathroom! Is nothing sacred to you people?
Casey: Just the right to bear arms.

The Bad(Ass)

HRG. Epitome of bad-ass. They could not eliminate such an awesome character from Heroes, yet. There's just so much more to do with Noah Bennet. Fulfilled the bang-bang destiny of the painting, check. Then fixed him up with his little girl's super-blood. Holy sh*t!  The epi. was so good I didn't have time to loathe West. It will be interesting to see how Volume Two wraps up with Claire thinking daddy-o is dead. Speaking of daddy issues, Hiro realized that sometimes he shouldn't change the past no matter how much it hurts to lose his father in the present, but he can use his power to his advantage. Busted, Kensai. Parkman can mold minds like dear old dad, but feels guilty about using his power to his advantage. I actually liked Elle this week. "Hey Fight Club, get a load of this." Heh. Maybe the previous episode was just overkill with the nympho imp. She's so much better being bad. Wicked + Crazzzy = Perfection. So, this week there was no shirtless Peter, but also no Maya and Alejandro. Coincidence? Maybe they're using one to distract us from the time suckage of the weepy other. Well, some of us, at least.

Why do I like Chuck more on Pushing Daisies when I like her wardrobe less? Her blossoming friendship with Olive. I know they both love the same man, who is eyes-only for Chuck, but I love their partnership for the good of the darling aunties. Although, I would appreciate if Chuck clued in Olive that cleavage isn't always a necessary daily accessory, but if it means bursting that BFF bubble, I'll deal with Chenowerth's twins as guest stars. Other awesomeness this week: scratch-n-sniff bomb, Emerson's love of pop-up books and Knit Wit magazine, Paul Reubens as Oscar, and the Darling Mermaid Darlings swim again.

The Ugly

It wasn't a wretched episode of Project Runway. Sarah Jessica Parker showed up and was actually pretty fabulous, but I'm not feeling any of the contestants yet. Yeah, yeah, only the second week, and last season it took me a while to find faves, so I'll give it time. Heidi and Tim said in every promotional interview that this is the best group of talent they've ever had. That may be true, but to me some of these supposed wannabes are already kind of established-ish designers looking for cash and publicity. Am I right? Producers already saved Elisa for the wakadoo drama factor during week one, so they better give me an underdog to root for to make up for it soon.

Strike Links

DeadlineHollywoodDaily.com exclusively hosted a series of online videos called Project Speechless over Thanksgiving weekend. Using new media to their advantage, WGA members conceived the videos featuring SAG members, a groundbreaking collaboration in the industry, including the cast of Ugly Betty. And Sean Penn, Harvey Keitel, and Holly Hunter, to name a few..

Visions of the future of Hollywood strike
AP Entertainment Writer Jake Coyle's humorous look into the crystal ball to see what the future will be like with no original TV programming and suck-ass movies at the box office. Pop-culture bedlam. My favorite is a January prediction: "Viewers discover that HBO's 'The Wire' is the best show on television." Well, it's a glass-quarter-full point of view, but at least The Wire might actually get the audience it deserves for the final season.

Monday the WGA and AMPTP return to the negotiating table. Because it seems to be about as logical and reasonable as the AMPTP, I decide to consult my Magic Eight Ball and ask if an agreement will be reached by 2008. Shake-shake-shake: Don't count on it. Oh well. Fingers and toes crossed it is then.

Holy crap. I haven't posted since last week's review. Suck-ass temp job. Sigh. Enough woe is leelee. Let's get to the telly.

The Good

To honor the casts suspended by the studios because of their support of the WGA strike, 30 Rock and The Office will get extra favie lines this week. I wonder how long it with take Tina Fey to whip up an episode titled "Force Majeure" when the strike ends. On with the show, first 30 Rock . . .

"That pita pocket could be a terrorist!" Liz referring to her neighbor, Raheem (the hilarious Fred Armisen), after swearing to Pete that she's not racist.

Jack: Wireless phones are just so popular, I accidentally grabbed one belonging to an acquaintance.
Liz: Well sure, cause that Verizon Wireless service is just unbeatable. If I saw a phone like that on TV I’d be like "where is my nearest retailer so I can get one?" (pauses to look directly into the camera) Can we have our money now?
Tina Fey didn't just tear down the fourth wall, she smashed it with her bare hands. And then stomped it into itty bitty pieces that should be sold on ebay with certificates of authenticity to benefit the striking writers.

A Dog Took My Face And Gave Me A Better Face To Change The World: The Celeste Cunningham Story. I bet that flick would steal the title of Best Lifetime Movie Ever from Mother May I Sleep with Danger. I'd trade the stellar Kristen Wiig for Tori Spelling any day.

Moving on to The Office and Kelly "Smack Talk" Kapoor . . .
"What has two skinny chicken legs and sucks at ping pong?"
"Were Jim's parents first cousins, who were also bad at ping pong?"
And my favorite, sung to Avril Lavigne's "Girlfriend" with a little smack-talk dance. . .
"Hey, hey, you, you. I don't like your boyfriend. Cuz, cuz, cuz, cuz. Cuz he sucks at ping pong."

Yes, there were great lines during the deposition, including a "That's what she said" joke gone delightfully wrong and Michael's XOXO diary entries about Jan and Ryan (heeee), but it was painful to watch. And a lot to transcribe, heh.

"That’s the most tragic story I have ever heard—notwithstanding the big-ticket items like genocide and famine. But tragic nonetheless." Pushing Daisies' Olive after Chuck blames allergies for why she and Ned never to touch.

"I succumbed to inebriation, performed in a speakeasy, and surrendered my virtue to a self-absorbed ass." Blair on Gossip Girl confessing her sins, even though she's not Catholic. Love her and her confession ensemble.

"I just pulled from different blogs on the internet. Mixed and matched. Presto manifesto." Dexter's voiceover explaining how he created the Bay Harbor Butcher's crackpot manifesto to lead the investigation astray.

"If I had a blog, this would be a really big day for me." Chuck after taking the deadly truth serum.

The Bad(Ass)

I love sweeps. And during sweeps one thing is certain: stunt casting!

Mercedes McNab as Lucy, a newly turned vampire, on Supernatural was gold. When I first saw her, I thought, "Harmony? Nah, they wouldn't." But then tied up in a chair, blood stained mouth, pleading with the boys to help her detox from what she thinks is a potent drug, definitely Harmony (of Buffy and Angel for those not Whedon-inclined). An entire episode of her vamping it up, too much. Five minutes to intro. the mystery, nice stunt casting, Kripke. Actually, the whole episode was an excellent return to form for the demon-hunting duo. Gordon became the monster he once hunted, even ripping out his sidekick's heart, and then was slowly decapitated with razor wire by Sam, his head popping off like a grape. Gross, gruesome, and very cool. And then a heart-to-heart ending with Dean being a big brother and teaching Sam how to keep the Impala in shape after he goes to Hell. Aw, you guys.

Joel McHale on Pushing Daisies. The Piemaker and The Soupmaker, two of my favorite shows collide. This week he made me laugh in two timeslots, even as a murdered dog breeding polygamist. My heart goes pitter patter for this show.

Kevin Weisman and Rachel Bilson on Chuck. Weisman must have had so much fun playing the spy for once. Marshall did a wicked backflip before Sarah shot him in the knee. Beats following Sophia Myles around with a camera on Moonlight. And I've missed Summer's fast-talking rambles. Bilson's quirky and cute deli-owner Lou has a shameless love of sandwiches, which I totally understand (thirty variations of the turkey sandwich and pie, best part of Thanksgiving) and a thing for Chuck, which I also totally understand. Mr. Schwartz, can we have some O.C. stunt casting on Gossip Girl? Wouldn't Autumn Reeser be the perfect van der Woodsen cousin? Any other suggestions? .

The Ugly

There was so much good on Friday Night Lights: Tyra and Lyla teaming up for Pantherama, Matt Saracen all adorable even in a sucky storyline, Buddy Garity giving shelter to Santiago (that kid, oh those puppydog eyes break my heart). And even though Julie seems to be out of her obnoxious phase, I am not thrilled with her latest storyline. A crush on the cute, young journalism teacher (Austin Nichols of John from Cincinnati). Wait, didn't they do that on 90210? Yeah, Andrea Zuckerman and Gil Meyers. No. Not on top of the Mini-Mart Murder and Saracen kissing Grandma's nurse. FNL better put a fresh, new spin on this tired tale. If not, the end could be near. Butchie says rehashed daytime drama sucks.

Moonlight was so ridiculously bad. No Coraline, no Josef, no words. One step forward, twelve steps back.

The Good, Bad(Ass), and Ugly

Few shows can pull off all three in one week. But Heroes really does go for the gold. First, the Good:

"I've lived in this building for sixteen years, ever since the shrinks diagnosed me a sociopath with paranoid delusions. But they’re just out to get me cause I threatened to kill them." Elle on Heroes. Kristen Bell nailed that monologue.

I really enjoyed this flashback-esque episode of Heroes. I appreciate when questions are answered, mysteries solved (lookin at you, Lindelof and Cuse). I adored that about Rob Thomas—all was resolved and within a reasonable amount of time. So much crammed into one tiny hour, so many answers and details dished out. It was pretty bad-ass.

So my problem? Elle grated my last nerve. I think KB is doing the best she can with the little sociopath. I know that Elle doesn't understand boundaries, and Milo is quite a tasty treat. But, sparky, quit petting Peter. He's not a Jack Russell terrier. That tiny blonde one actually did annoy me with the touching. I hope she dials down the nympho imp and turns up the wicked wacko. Although, I must thank her for cutting the emo bangs. (I did lurve how they worked Milo out of his shirt this week. All to explain how he ended up in that shipping container, so not exactly a new shirtless scene, heh.) Also, although I understand the life lesson of DL being killed by a random skeezoid, and not dying as the result of heroic act using his powers, he deserved a better death scene then that.

Strike links

Saturday Night Live staged amid strike
Members of the cast put on a  two-hour show at the Upright Citizens Brigade theater in NYC, complete with Yo La Tengo as musical guest and Michael Cera taking on hosting duties. Wow, I am Kermit-green with envy (and anyone who can catch an ASSSSCAT show in L.A. or NYC, go!). All proceeds go to staffers out of work by the strike. On Monday, the cast of 30 Rock will stage a performance too.

Pencils2MediaMoguls campaign
United Hollywood has details about a new fan support campaign to send pencils to the powers-that-be. I'm not a huge fan of these campaigns, but it is a symbolic sign of support, so if you want to learn more, follow the link.

Film, TV writers set negotiations date
They're going back to the negotiating table! On Nov. 26, the WGA and AMPTP will sit down and start talks again. Negotiations are going to be rough and an agreement won't be reached over night, but at least they're back at the bargaining table.

Writers are winning over the public
Variety reports about the support writers have received. IATSE president, Thomas Short, has an interesting perspective on negotiations, and what it will do to the thousands of below-the-line crew members who belong to his union..

Okay, Fall, you and I do not have a good relationship. Your arrival means the farewell of my bestest buddy, Summer, as well as shorter days, dead leaves, and drab colors that I cannot wear. (Just because pumpkins are harvested this season, must we dress like them?) And you're pals with Winter, which does you no favors because it gives me cold days, no leaves, no flip flops, and seasonal affective disorder. But Fall, you do also bring newbies for the small screen. And provide an excuse to eat candy and watch horror flicks called Halloween. For those gifts, I cannot hold a grudge.

Since the upfronts last May, shows have been retooled and recast, scheduled and promoted. And in the next few weeks, based merely on a handful of viewers that actually have Nielsen boxes, some will be declared a screaming success while others may struggle to get a full season pickup or, worse, get the axe. And as well all know, quality is not always a deciding factor. At least this season I don’t have to hold my breath to see if Veronica Mars got decent numbers in it's target demo. Sigh. (Let's see how many times I manage to bring it up this week. Count at the end!).

This season I am on the hunt for a new favorite. I also retired Grey's Anatomy as my cheesy-soapy-goodness, and  Private Practice is definitely not in the running. Hmmmm, so many shiny new shows (check out the Futon Critic's guide, it rocks). I didn't even watch any online because I want to see the debuts live. Let's take a look at what Monday and Tuesday offer.

Monday

The New Kids

ABC's amnesiac comedy Samantha Who? has some great actresses in its cast including Christina Applegate (Samantha), Jean Smart, Jennifer Esposito, and Melissa McCarthy. Chicks with serious comedic gifts. When it premieres in October, it doesn't have an easy time slot against Heroes. I'll probably record to watch later.

Have you heard about Chuck? I haven’t seen a single ad for it. In the last two minutes. NBC is really promoting this bad boy. Josh Scwhartz created it, Zachary Levi stars, and VM's Phil Klemmer contributes his talents to scripts. Oh, and Adam Baldwin too. Yeah, I'm there. This is supposed to be a breakthrough role for Levi. I don't doubt it. His Kipp and Andrea Parker's Lydia were the only reasons I rarely tuned in to Less the Perfect even though Sara Rue is incredibly charming. Speaking of charming, I read an interview with him during Perfect that confirmed why I adored such a snitty character; it's the actor. So I'd watch it even without the hype.

The peacock network's time traveling Journeyman doesn't grab me but I am intrigued. Eh, that's alright. I really don't need or want to watch three hours of telly in one night.

Big Bang Theory on CBS. Kaley Cuoco got another primetime gig. Nope.

K-Ville debuted last week and the buzz is not good. Reviving the buddy-cop show in the era of procedural crime dramas. Setting that show in an area that is still in such turmoil two years after a devastating disaster. That adds up to quite the programming gamble. But I just found out a friend of a friend got a callback for it so here's hoping FOX doesn't yank it after only a few episodes. coughDrivecough. Such a nasty habit, FOX.

The Old Gang

Heroes was renewed. With the skyrocketing ratings and the mostly deserved hype, it really was touch and go for a nanosecond. Whew, I'm glad I caught up on the show before last season's finale. Kristen Bell and Alias' David Anders joined the cast for season two's superpower hijinks. And even though they will not be sharing scenes (based only on casting info.), Veronica Mars and Sark on the same show! Sneaky, sneaky, NBC. Because although I really enjoy Heroes, I still don't get the hype, but now resistance is futile.

Prison Break, you completely lost me at T-bag's severed hand reattachment at a vet's office. Oy. Best of luck in your Panamanian prison adventures, boys.

I like How I Met Your Mother. It's not appointment TV, but I dig it from time to time. In the season premiere, Mandy Moore and Enrique Iglasias guest as Ted and Robin's respective rebounds.

Tuesday

The New Kids

Cavemen. Carpoolers. Cashmere Mafia. Fact: I will not watch ABC on Tuesday nights.

Cane. Sorry Jimmy Smits and Nestor Carbonell,  I only have room for one cheesy-soapy-goodness drama and your soap about a family of Cuban-American sugar moguls is most likely not it. I prefer some crazy with a dash of funny to be key ingredients so I'm betting on ABC's Dirty Sexy Money instead, but more about that in the next installment.

The CW's Reaper has gotten the stamp of approval as best new comedy from critics. Kid's soul was sold to the Devil by his parents before he was born. Turning twenty-one means kid must fulfill his destiny as Satan's bounty hunter. The premise could go very wrong, so it impresses me that it evidently has done the opposite. Kevin Smith directed the pilot. Bret Harrison gets to show off his comedic chops as the lead, Sam. And Twin Peaks' Leland Palmer, Ray Wise, is expertly cast as the Devil. Even without my Tuesday Mars Fix, it looks like it will be the same bat time, same bat channel on Tuesdays for me. Sneaky, sneaky, CW bastards.

The Old Gang

Here's the rundown on those returning that I will not be watching:
Bones. Despite David Boreanz, I just can't watch Emily Deschanel.
House. Despite the fabulous Hugh Laurie, I've been over the formula since season two.
L&O: Special Victims Unit. Despite Christopher Meloni, I'm two blocks past over for L&O anything.
Nip/Tuck. Despite devilish Julian McMahon, I stopped caring three seasons ago.
NCIS and The Unit. Despite, well, nothing, never seen them, don't watch CBS much.

So Tuedays will actually be a free night to get actual things accomplished with a little Reaper break. Good to know. That's why I plan ahead. Because it looks like Wednesdays are a goner. . . .

VM count: 4