tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5444961025140232922024-03-16T11:51:56.603-07:00The World According to MandyAmanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.comBlogger494125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-64454354365796770852015-10-06T11:29:00.001-07:002015-10-06T11:29:52.697-07:00Check out the first chapter of Freaky Days<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="" name="_Toc428835531">Freaky Days Chapter One</a><span style="mso-bookmark: _Toc428835531;"></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 24.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></h1>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Stop molesting that tiger.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">I rolled my eyes and glanced at the large tent’s floor, fixing my best friend, Luke Bishop, with a dark look. “I am not molesting the tiger. Get your head out of the gutter.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“You’re stroking him like he’s going to make you purr,” Luke countered, hopping onto the brightly lit stage where I stood and swaggering to my side. That’s what he does best: swagger. He knows it, and I know it, too. “You can’t slip your toe into the animal dating pool and think no one is going to notice, Poet. It’s the kind of scandal this place was made for.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">I pursed my lips, the desire to laugh warring with the urge to yank huge hunks of Luke’s blond hair out of his head. He thinks he’s cute, so he says the most outrageous things and then sits back to enjoy how people react. Most of the time he’s <g class="gr_ gr_288 gr-alert gr_gramm Punctuation only-del replaceWithoutSep" data-gr-id="288" id="288">pleased,</g> because he’s too handsome – and ridiculously charming when he wants to be – for people to stay angry with him for long. I’m not most people, though.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">My name is Poet Parker and I’m a <g class="gr_ gr_270 gr-alert gr_gramm Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" data-gr-id="270" id="270">fortune</g> teller. No, you read that right. I tell fortunes for a living for Mystic Caravan Circus, one of the few traveling circuses still in operation in the United States. I’m also one of the group’s business managers, although I prefer telling paying customers their futures to adding up line items on a spreadsheet. Unfortunately, my job isn’t one that lends itself to a lot of multitasking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Why would I date a tiger? We both know I’m more partial to dogs than cats,” I shot back, causing Luke to chuckle and the tiger to growl. I shifted my attention to the magnificent animal, which just happened to be wearing a pair of shorts. What? This is the circus, after all. “Suck it up, Seth. We both know you’re not my type.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Seth tilted his head to the side, giving all appearances that he was a normal tiger hanging out with some humans for the afternoon, and then reared up on his hind legs and shifted into the handsome man I knew lurked beneath the fur. His drawstring shorts rode low on his hips and his chiseled chest was bare so everyone could appreciate the epitome of perfection that was his body. He ran a hand through his dark hair to push it into place – my overzealous petting from a few moments before caused it to stand on end – and winked. “I think we both know I could change your mind if I really wanted to,” he said. “I’m everyone’s type.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">I smirked. I couldn’t help myself. He had killer dimples – and his eight-pack abs weren’t bad either – and yet he still wasn’t my type. “I think you do fine when you stalk the circus grounds at night looking for your next tasty morsel,” I replied. “You’re a one-night man; two if you’re particularly interested or the woman in question has really big boobs, but you’re not a lifer.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Is that what you’re looking for?” Seth asked, reaching for the shirt hanging over the prop <g class="gr_ gr_239 gr-alert gr_spell ContextualSpelling" data-gr-id="239" id="239">stool</g> to our right. “I could be a lifer if you gave me the chance, Poet.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Don’t listen to him,” Luke scoffed, making a face. “Just like everyone else in this outfit, he wants to get in your pants … or skirt, as the day may have it. When the reality sets in about what a ballbuster you are, things are going to change and he’s going to run for the hills. Then where will we be without our tiger?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Seth good-naturedly cuffed Luke on the back of the head. “I think Poet could tame my wild ways.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“I think Poet would get you hot and bothered, and then make you wish you’d never been born when she starts that infernal nagging she does,” Luke countered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">I punched him in the stomach, catching him off guard.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Oomph! I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, Poet,” Luke said, rubbing his stomach ruefully. “You like things a specific way – your way – and that has benefitted the circus for the past three years. I applaud your work ethic.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Thank you,” I said, crossing my arms over my chest. “I like to think I’m a hard worker.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“You’re also a ballbuster,” Luke said, swiftly jumping out of the way when I lashed out again. “I guess it’s good you’re the love of my life or I would think you’re trying to hurt me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Luke’s blue eyes were full of mirth. I knew he wouldn’t trade our friendship for anything – including a regular delivery of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream – but his words still <g class="gr_ gr_241 gr-alert gr_spell ContextualSpelling" data-gr-id="241" id="241">grated</g>. “Just because I want things done a specific way – the right way, not my way, mind you – that doesn’t mean I’m a ballbuster. I’m a very nice woman and a wonderful boss.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“You’re the best boss ever,” Seth said, winking at me as he slung an arm over my shoulders. “You’re the queen of bosses.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“He’s only saying that because you sign his paycheck,” Luke interjected.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">I sighed. I love the Mystic Caravan Circus – and all the crazies who travel with it – but the immature behavior is enough to give me pause on bad days. This was apparently gearing up to be a bad day. “I think we can all agree that I’m the most lovable person here and leave it at that,” I said, pasting a smile on my face. “If you don’t think I’m the most lovable person here, Luke, then you can make your own breakfast tomorrow.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Luke frowned. He was many things: a shape-shifting wolf, a talented <g class="gr_ gr_263 gr-alert gr_gramm Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" data-gr-id="263" id="263">ringmaster</g> and an occasional tightrope walker when the mood struck. He was also a menace in the kitchen. He gave up fixing anything but cold cereal years ago in favor of my delectable omelets. I was hitting below the belt. “You already know you’re my favorite person in the world,” he said. “I’ve been in love with you since I met you nine years ago. I think you’re the most lovable person in the world.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Thank you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“You’re still going to fix me breakfast every morning, right?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">I sighed. Luke was incorrigible. He also was my best source for laughter and the one person I knew would always be there in a crisis. “I will continue to make you breakfast as long as you continue to grovel.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Sold.” Luke brightened considerably. “Are you ready to do your final walk-through before tonight’s show?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">As <g class="gr_ gr_277 gr-alert gr_gramm Grammar only-ins doubleReplace replaceWithoutSep" data-gr-id="277" id="277">business</g> manager, it was my job to make sure everything was in place before the big show hit the big top before performances. As part of my duties I walked through the entire circus before an evening show to make sure things were how they should be – and no matter what Luke says, making sure things are how they’re supposed to be is not the same as molding the circus into my personal playground. Now – thanks to Luke and Seth – I was behind. I shook myself out of my reverie.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“You’re right,” I said. “I need to get moving. I still have the boardwalk to check and Max wants to see me before the gates open.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Luke furrowed his brow. “Max? You’re not in trouble, are you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Maxwell Anderson was the real boss of Mystic Caravan Circus. He started the group thirty-five years ago and it’s still going strong, so he must have done something right when he launched this little endeavor. While he’d ceded the day-to-day operations to me, he remains the driving force behind all of the important decisions. When the hard choices have to be made, Max is the man who makes them – after listening to my opinion, of course.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“No,” I replied, shaking my head. “He said he had something he wanted to talk to me about, though. I’m not sure what it is. He didn’t sound upset, so don’t worry.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Because Mystic Caravan is one of the few operations left in the circus game, most of the employees live under an ominous cloud, worrying that someday Max would fold the tent, leaving them without work. When you’re dealing with circus performers, you’re dealing with talented individuals. You’re also dealing with people who perform in niches. Those niches aren’t universally available in the “real world.” You might be able to convince a human resources rep to give you a shot on the loading dock if you’re the “World’s Strongest Man,” but good luck if you’ve spent twenty-five years as “Derek, the Dog-Faced Boy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“I didn’t say I was worried,” Luke scoffed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Okay.” I threw up my hands in surrender. “I need to get going. Are you coming with me or are you going to stay here and worry?” As well as he knew me, I like to think I know Luke better. Once he got <g class="gr_ gr_261 gr-alert gr_gramm Grammar multiReplace" data-gr-id="261" id="261">wind</g> that Max wanted to meet with me, there was no way he would let me conduct my rounds alone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“I’ll come with you,” Luke said, causing me to bite my lip to keep from smiling. “I don’t want you to be lonely.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“You’re a good friend, Luke.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Luke slipped his arm around my shoulders and led me out of the tent. “I’m the best friend in the world. You should never forget that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“I’m thinking of having T-shirts made up,” I teased.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Make sure they’re made from organic cotton,” Luke said. “You know I don’t like it when my clothing scratches me. It makes me angry, and no one likes me when I’m angry.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“I’ll keep that in mind.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">IT TOOK</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> me almost an hour to complete my rounds and when I had to stop in the midway to break up a fight between Gilly Schilling and Cal West – it seems the proprietress of the ring toss game and the owner of the Bushel Basket Toss were having a lover’s spat that spilled over for public consumption – I found myself in a time crunch. Max was expecting me and I was already five minutes late. He was not a fan of tardiness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Luke struggled to keep up with me as I scampered across the open circus landscape. This was our last night in St. Louis, and while I wouldn’t miss Missouri’s summer humidity, I was a fan of the parcel we’d been camped on for the past week. I was going to miss the open field where we erected the carnival and the way the woods bordered the eastern boundary behind our trailers. Still, you don’t join the circus if you want to put down roots. The circus is for roamers, and I have a wandering heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Max was in his trailer when I entered. Luke was irritated at being left outside, but he wasn’t invited to this little pow wow. I thought it was going to be just Max and me, some new planned promotion about to be dumped in my lap. There was another man sitting on the couch when I entered, though, and he took my breath away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Luke likes to joke about me dating in the animal pool, and the truth is I often prefer animals to people. I have limited tolerance for bull, and when you deal with the public as much as I do that’s a very dangerous proposition<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">The man on the couch jumped to his feet as I entered. His black hair was shorn close, highlighting the steep ridges of his cheekbones. His blue eyes were clear and friendly when they landed on me and I could tell me was taking stock of me as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">I’m of Romani descent, although those lines are so faded they border on lost now. My hair is long and dark, almost to my waist, and my eyes are a bright teal – most of the time. I’ll explain more about that later, though.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">As a fortune teller, I’m expected to play a part. On days when I’m not <g class="gr_ gr_273 gr-alert gr_gramm Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" data-gr-id="273" id="273">performing</g> I prefer dressing down in cargo pants and tank tops, slipping into my comfortable flip flops and tennis shoes rather than tottering about in high heels. On performance days, though, I wear ankle-length skirts and billowing white tunics, sashes cinched at my waist and scarves tying back my ebony hair so I can see someone’s future without constantly pushing flyaway strands from my face. I embody the cliché – and I’m fine with it if the customers buy the role. Who I pretend to be during a performance is not who I am. That’s a line I straddle comfortably. It is those who can’t who wash out. You can tell <g class="gr_ gr_242 gr-alert gr_spell ContextualSpelling" data-gr-id="242" id="242">straightaway</g> when someone belongs with a circus troupe. The man I was staring at now didn’t look as if he belonged within a thousand feet of a circus. He looked as if he should be smiling back at me from the pages of a hipster catalog or sipping lattes with a willowy blonde as they pushed a tiny dog around in a stroller. What? I have attitude and I make snap judgments about people. It comes from sizing up those who plunk down twenty-five dollars to have their fortunes told.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“You’re late,” Max said, lifting a challenging eyebrow as I struggled to catch my breath.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Five minutes,” I protested, making a face. “Cal and Gilly were fighting and I had to put an end to it before we start letting people in. I can’t make them fight on your schedule.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Max rolled his eyes. “What were they fighting about now?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Gilly says Cal has been hitting on Raven and she’s sick of it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“What does Cal say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“He says he has a lazy eye and he can’t always control which way it looks,” I replied. “He doesn’t deny it might occasionally <g class="gr_ gr_240 gr-alert gr_spell ContextualSpelling" data-gr-id="240" id="240">leer</g> in Raven’s direction, but he says it’s involuntary.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Max snorted. “Well, that’s just … typical.” He climbed out of his chair and moved to the center of the trailer. “I’m going to forgive you this time.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">I don’t know who he thought he was kidding. He forgives me every time. My parents are long dead – a car accident claimed them two weeks before my sixteenth birthday – and Max is the closest thing I have to a parent. He often looked at me as the daughter he never had – or wanted – but he puts up with my antics. “Thank you,” I said, opting to refrain from an argument in front of the stranger.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“I called you here because I want to introduce you to our new head of security,” Max said, smiling congenially as his gaze bounced between the stranger and me. “Poet Parker, I would like you to meet Kade Denton. When it comes to security decisions, he’s technically your new boss.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“It’s nice to meet you,” I said, extending my hand. “I … wait, what did you just say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-89386642955881063942015-01-30T02:42:00.001-08:002015-01-30T02:42:17.476-08:00A massive apologyHere's the deal, I'm … transitioning.<br />
I'm moving to being a writer full time. I'm almost there.<br />
I'm not giving up the blog -- or my passions.<br />
I will start updating next week -- and I won't be pulling any punches. I apologize for the lapse.Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-55954617139230959722014-11-29T13:48:00.002-08:002014-11-29T13:48:37.647-08:00THE WALKING DEAD: Is someone going to die Sunday night?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2VHw2ZGyFgrZ9iFRSB3oScZXO2rHgpczf5RZlzcAznOwrzc4xbj_NmLw74FF27-NxzVuhnTXlYxYWXlxZnHejNfLBnIPZDaAvN3zI4O2gkjt5ajLMZemf17ITX7du94ndox0F2UM-qNuF/s1600/walkingmash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2VHw2ZGyFgrZ9iFRSB3oScZXO2rHgpczf5RZlzcAznOwrzc4xbj_NmLw74FF27-NxzVuhnTXlYxYWXlxZnHejNfLBnIPZDaAvN3zI4O2gkjt5ajLMZemf17ITX7du94ndox0F2UM-qNuF/s1600/walkingmash.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After a rock-solid start to the fifth season, <i>The Walking
Dead</i> has stalled.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What’s the difference? Well, for starters, the cast was
together for the early episodes and separated for the later ones.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After a breathtaking season premiere which saw Carol almost
single-handedly taking out the whole of Terminus, and which culminated with
Rick and Carl reuniting with Judith, things sped along in the next two episodes
as the remaining Terminus inhabitants hunted Rick and Co.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAXLLuXZnZKpxqR6UwoJ6osEgu88WAGljmahH5aLADWBGILQHdYY0SuXOfD-zUA3o8VweYHXMSxsOUqtyPuE8Gokaht_Ky1hGjvUZhkZCLRQUv47O3G_MXGc1AMgtmUwc6udQ5RhJhZ5M5/s1600/wd1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAXLLuXZnZKpxqR6UwoJ6osEgu88WAGljmahH5aLADWBGILQHdYY0SuXOfD-zUA3o8VweYHXMSxsOUqtyPuE8Gokaht_Ky1hGjvUZhkZCLRQUv47O3G_MXGc1AMgtmUwc6udQ5RhJhZ5M5/s1600/wd1.jpg" height="225" width="320" /></a>After taking them down in bloody (and justified) fashion,
things tumbled when the cast was split again.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Listen, I get why they’re doing it. It’s to save money. The
show runners figured they got away with it for the second half of last season –
but the difference is, that they could get away with it as a plot device last
season.</div>
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<br /></div>
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It’s a lot harder to explain now.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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For example, am I really supposed to believe that Maggie
would willingly wander off with Glen without looking for Beth even though she
knows her sister isn’t dead? Really? Beth is Maggie’s only living blood
relative left. There is no way she wouldn’t at least spend a few days looking
for her sister.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWN4PDkPK3p63Wzr1ARwoJFJK9BosSvcTRMino0us72ZFw5sZf-9WD56z2xnwpRulvxgNIcA0tITRFn9N7h_Qwy-ZwwLopPZ6cdkgtODOQVbBR5aWvxFZfYjk2xezx2to6_B_rrB3gSkdM/s1600/wd2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWN4PDkPK3p63Wzr1ARwoJFJK9BosSvcTRMino0us72ZFw5sZf-9WD56z2xnwpRulvxgNIcA0tITRFn9N7h_Qwy-ZwwLopPZ6cdkgtODOQVbBR5aWvxFZfYjk2xezx2to6_B_rrB3gSkdM/s1600/wd2.jpg" height="226" width="320" /></a></div>
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And, while Carol and Daryl sped off into the night to search
for Beth, Abraham’s insistence on fleeing right when the group was grappling
with stuff seems so … lame.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Now, I’m glad the truth about Eugene is out and – God help
me, I still like the guy – but it’s time for Abraham’s group to back track and
join with their friends. Is the group too big? Yes. It’s going to have to be
cut, but Rosita and Tara have had fodder written all over them since they were
introduced, and try as I might, I’ve never really warmed up to Sasha (or
Tyrese, for that matter).<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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There’s been a lot of talk about a big death happening on
Sunday’s episode. And, whenever <i>The Talking Dead</i> (the companion chat show for
<i>The Walking Dead</i>) touts a surprise guest, that usually means someone is going
to die. They did it the week before Gareth died – and lo-and-behold, the actor
who played Gareth showed up on the couch the next week.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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That’s not always the case, though.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ojqr4Qxog9_99HV8-kq646vH-PuoR2iBwAn6PaJrhI-jpcmKCE-NycbkTa1XJcJYO8Q5uSqa9wCDlSfHyyPu69o3b3GcUzkIH1J0I76IFA18W4p7NCnGraVuUg1AaI6pCy75OuR_qMmh/s1600/wd3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ojqr4Qxog9_99HV8-kq646vH-PuoR2iBwAn6PaJrhI-jpcmKCE-NycbkTa1XJcJYO8Q5uSqa9wCDlSfHyyPu69o3b3GcUzkIH1J0I76IFA18W4p7NCnGraVuUg1AaI6pCy75OuR_qMmh/s1600/wd3.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<br /></div>
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They did it before last year’s spring finale and Andrew
Lincoln was the surprise guest – and we all know Rick didn’t die.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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We’ll have to see. However, since we haven’t had a big, core
death since Hershel, I’m guessing one of our beloved heroes is going to go – and
the odds seem to point directly in Carol or Beth’s direction.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Personally, I have grown to love Carol and will be sad if
she’s killed off – but she “fits” the signs that have been showing up, for some
reason. The episode that followed her and Daryl before she got hit by the car
seemed to be a love letter to her – and whenever an episode like that runs, the
person featured in it often dies (just ask Hershel).<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhfY4uvLIQI_0kUcomHv8MEP_0y7iSEU5VV2nxigRfISDhV-BboYFSOOssVntjbu3zc73pz3WAphgSfAFZjoA8P0WwHvanDJ4Kg6gRSI8s0vJECXDPQhnaiWlyo8llH18zcpQS19se1Oha/s1600/wd+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhfY4uvLIQI_0kUcomHv8MEP_0y7iSEU5VV2nxigRfISDhV-BboYFSOOssVntjbu3zc73pz3WAphgSfAFZjoA8P0WwHvanDJ4Kg6gRSI8s0vJECXDPQhnaiWlyo8llH18zcpQS19se1Oha/s1600/wd+4.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am hard-pressed to believe they’re going to kill Beth off
before reuniting her with Maggie. <i>The Walking Dead</i> is cruel – but I don’t know
if they’re that cruel. They seemed to have gone through a lot of effort to
build Beth up over the second half of last season and the beginning half of
this season.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am not ruling Beth out. I’m just leaning toward Carol –
which very well could crush me. I would sacrifice the bulk of our group to keep
Carol (Daryl and Rick notwithstanding) – but there’s just “something” in the
air.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I don’t think that anyone can argue that we’re going to get
a death Sunday. It’s not the “if” but the “who” in question. It would be much
too easy for viewers to watch Rosita, Tara or Sasha die – which means it’s
probably going to be someone we care about – which means a member of the core
group.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Either way, I’ll have the marathon on all day Sunday to
revisit the season in anticipation of the big finale – and then I’m sure I’ll
be glued to the television for <i>The Walking Dead</i> and <i>The Talking Dead</i> Sunday
night (so no one dare call me!).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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All I hope is that separating the cast so early in the
season means they won’t have to in the second half of the season – because the
show tends to lag for me when that happens.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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So, what do you think? Who is going to die Sunday night?<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-18095194856478021382014-11-18T16:02:00.002-08:002014-11-18T16:03:06.853-08:00GENERAL HOSPITAL: The cast pruning has officially begun<div class="MsoNormal">
It seems that <i>General Hospital</i> is finally getting around to
trimming the cast.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Unfortunately, I’m starting to suspect it’s so they can
afford Billy Miller (Jason), and not because the writers realize the folly of balancing
too many characters.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcq7yM0J9_XS-2WTx1-BoGGllHS0IwgmCruyB23dU1VuSUSsuwD5THW2i9nhJ1g0efH1tQLe8K2Eh_Bkx1XzIB0_iSG1-FyNVrfzrSqsmoCu_tVI1vkqew4OSnH8p5ApbKj_wmPhRwNz2X/s1600/gh1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcq7yM0J9_XS-2WTx1-BoGGllHS0IwgmCruyB23dU1VuSUSsuwD5THW2i9nhJ1g0efH1tQLe8K2Eh_Bkx1XzIB0_iSG1-FyNVrfzrSqsmoCu_tVI1vkqew4OSnH8p5ApbKj_wmPhRwNz2X/s1600/gh1.png" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
First up, Marc Anthony Samuel (Felix) announced that he has
been dropped to recurring. That’s not an outright ouster, but it’s pretty
close. Samuel expressed his ambition to move on to other things – so I doubt we’ll
be seeing much of Felix.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I’m guessing – and this is just a guess – that Sabrina will
be following in upcoming weeks. The character has been written into a corner,
and she has no ties to anyone on the canvas. There’s really no reason to keep
her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am hoping that GH moves Lucas and Brad into a realistic
relationship (instead of the cliché threesome), although I still think it would
have made more sense to move Milo into their orbit. I am worried that both of
them will be gone, too. While I can take or leave Brad, Lucas is a legacy
character. He’s Carly and Sam’s brother and Lulu and Maxie’s cousin. He’s
important to the canvas.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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In addition to Samuel, Kelly Thiebaud (Britt) has
voluntarily dropped to recurring. If you believe the <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6elCR3enyswD-co2_9WW2AIImIu9qHC2bw-O1RFz9QTbV-SJd0Zpy0VY1UeBx6L6Z6ifoQkH5d-uIxOvL1jprd1qIttSluNkLYYbOEd7l6GNCOFK6PMPBOQbkwEuA-9OHsbGxE2IjVgLS/s1600/gh+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6elCR3enyswD-co2_9WW2AIImIu9qHC2bw-O1RFz9QTbV-SJd0Zpy0VY1UeBx6L6Z6ifoQkH5d-uIxOvL1jprd1qIttSluNkLYYbOEd7l6GNCOFK6PMPBOQbkwEuA-9OHsbGxE2IjVgLS/s1600/gh+2.jpg" height="210" width="320" /></a></div>
gossip, she’s only staying
recurring to finish up Britt’s storyline. While I had high hopes for Britt and
Nikolas in the beginning – those were dashed pretty quickly when the writing
for her character went from weak to dismal after the baby Rocco reveal. I can’t
help but think Thiebaud is better off getting away from the soap.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since Thiebaud is involved with Bryan Craig (Morgan) in real
life, I’m betting he opts to leave when his contract is up next year. While I
like Craig’s Morgan, I think he’s one of the few actors who has a chance to hit
it big outside of daytime, so it’s only a matter of time before he flees Port
Charles.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GH head writer Ron Carlivati has also written several big
characters into corners they might not be able to emerge from. Who?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJRyLr86avJuC74EGpAQLnUVnrKnSi-PtRKlhRa66vufh8NXtgjX9WBWOcPBTxhw0zovbSW3-IYGf6Fo-cVZL7QpJawdHfHo7IiHaJN0gTRGme3pvqW4gr0hDZUT5mTb03XAkcoiNvexoX/s1600/gh+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJRyLr86avJuC74EGpAQLnUVnrKnSi-PtRKlhRa66vufh8NXtgjX9WBWOcPBTxhw0zovbSW3-IYGf6Fo-cVZL7QpJawdHfHo7IiHaJN0gTRGme3pvqW4gr0hDZUT5mTb03XAkcoiNvexoX/s1600/gh+3.jpg" height="204" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>1. Nina Clay:</b> If Michelle Stafford only signed a six-month
contract, the disastrous writing for Nina makes sense. She was always intended
to be a villain. If that wasn’t the case, the writing for Nina is so atrocious
that Stafford must be mortified. There’s no rooting value in the character, and
there’s no redeeming her. Once the baby storyline is wrapped up, Nina will
either be locked up with Heather Webber or killed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>2. Ava Jerome:</b> I love Maura West, but the second she killed
Connie in cold blood, Ava’s die was cast. The best thing to do with the character
is to reunite her with her baby and have her flee. I don’t want Kiki or Morgan
saddled with a kid – and Sonny has enough kids to field his own ball team.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAgj5pKQKLMRAWgR_HSWYmvHy8VAhQeNCKxYY4n4NAz-8HZUWJLUItGwZStaiM6BwrPZz-zVY-PO5tJXZ46qqAONVS0-rSwD62Pxs51uaE5sp0v9WOsvPfSAyWMc0LDREtrEKeAxqjVmEd/s1600/gh+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAgj5pKQKLMRAWgR_HSWYmvHy8VAhQeNCKxYY4n4NAz-8HZUWJLUItGwZStaiM6BwrPZz-zVY-PO5tJXZ46qqAONVS0-rSwD62Pxs51uaE5sp0v9WOsvPfSAyWMc0LDREtrEKeAxqjVmEd/s1600/gh+4.png" height="178" width="320" /></a><b>3. Franco: </b>As much as I applauded his outing of Carly and
Sonny – and the truth behind AJ’s murder – there still isn’t any rooting value
in the character. Roger Howarth is a tremendous talent – and now a regular on
the CW’s The Flash. Maybe it’s time to let him go with dignity. Bringing
someone of Howarth’s caliber in as a character as dumb as Franco was just …
well … insulting, to both fans and Howarth.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>4. Sonny Corinthos:</b> Maurice Benard may be a popular actor,
but who can root for Sonny? He killed AJ in cold blood. He lied to his son. He
tried to kill Ava. Seriously, how does Sonny think it’s okay to kill Ava for
killing Connie but take no personal responsibility for murdering AJ? Sonny and
Carly do not work as a couple. In fact, they’re the couple who helped sink Port
Charles. Besides that, Laura Wright and Benard have absolutely no chemistry. Send
Sonny out of town, give him a happily ever after with Brenda in a non-extradition
country, and call it a day.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE1rjHMEkoADSwu6FoZ-c5GiMaql-ghLL5vw8JKvKAtMKYF6p4Mncp2738vr1Xx8dYAxdHdOLsLzTpQeeZCly1yKmg-dWVVyVFsCkCJe0axk8s67bOL2GwJaNXly68DkVBhTp6nY1nJw-E/s1600/gh+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE1rjHMEkoADSwu6FoZ-c5GiMaql-ghLL5vw8JKvKAtMKYF6p4Mncp2738vr1Xx8dYAxdHdOLsLzTpQeeZCly1yKmg-dWVVyVFsCkCJe0axk8s67bOL2GwJaNXly68DkVBhTp6nY1nJw-E/s1600/gh+5.png" height="176" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And, finally, when it comes to cutting dead weight – can someone
explain to me why Olivia is still around? I’m sure Lisa Locicero is a wonderful
person, but Olivia is completely unnecessary. The cast has to be trimmed, and
while it looks like the pruning has started, there’s still a long way to go.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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GH's greatest strength lies in its veterans and core families. Let's not lose that.</div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
What do you think? Who should go? Who should stay?<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com154tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-20860885498621569832014-10-22T14:19:00.002-07:002014-10-22T14:19:36.021-07:00GENERAL HOSPITAL: How would I write things in Port Charles? Very differently<div class="MsoNormal">
I think it’s time to bring back my monthly ‘If I were
writing <i>General Hospital</i>’ column.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There’s no denying that watching the show has become a chore
(like a break-me-off-a-switch-<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjK0AcMrnnHX069N8FkKOuC33V5DPieqT6XwmDQZxoTCGyLDF8kWW7F1ng8EOBOcI5xEbOjoWndZjGKQPpMoL8EydoCoGSuMFaeJEYAe16eoHLiOC4RB58kvXlgZIqFgN3_7_4e05zhDEf/s1600/gh+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjK0AcMrnnHX069N8FkKOuC33V5DPieqT6XwmDQZxoTCGyLDF8kWW7F1ng8EOBOcI5xEbOjoWndZjGKQPpMoL8EydoCoGSuMFaeJEYAe16eoHLiOC4RB58kvXlgZIqFgN3_7_4e05zhDEf/s1600/gh+2.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
someone-is-going-to-get-a-whooping chore). It’s
just painful.<br />
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The ratings are starting to show a progressive slide, too.<o:p></o:p></div>
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When Ron Carlivati first took over head writing duties on
GH, he raised ratings. How did he do it? It was a combination of things. The
biggest being the return of our beloved vets. Fans wanted to see Anna, Felicia,
Frisco, and Robert. The vet returns, in conjunction with the <i>One Life to Live
</i>transplants was enough to inflate ratings.<o:p></o:p></div>
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That’s not the case anymore.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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RC has gone off on some wild tangents, and completely
alienated fans. Yes, appealing to new fans is important to keep the genre
alive, but you have to do it without turning off longtime fans. All RC is doing
right now is turning off dedicated fans.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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So, let’s play the game. How would I write GH if I was in
charge?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwBunIQNU3z3wXeDftmWKnXid4TKUiYJb2B0emX9aFBZacOrLmwO2FWkOPowt4MIK_YRX4XsgMAGZgQHGq6P0zDbc_2Bnsaot46epxkG-jQaBfgOwUOBFfQ8WeV1JOfnkrV2nxJomm40Vc/s1600/gh+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwBunIQNU3z3wXeDftmWKnXid4TKUiYJb2B0emX9aFBZacOrLmwO2FWkOPowt4MIK_YRX4XsgMAGZgQHGq6P0zDbc_2Bnsaot46epxkG-jQaBfgOwUOBFfQ8WeV1JOfnkrV2nxJomm40Vc/s1600/gh+3.jpg" height="253" width="320" /></a></div>
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* Once Sonny’s culpability in AJ’s murder is revealed, Sonny
goes after Franco. There’s a shootout on the docks, and Franco is wounded and
killed (I love Roger Howarth, but Franco is a dud of a character). Sabrina
witnesses the shooting and goes to the police. In an attempt to avoid jail
time, Sonny has to flee the country. He reunites with Brenda and they move to
some non-extradition country. As long as Sabrina is alive, Sonny cannot return.
As long as Sonny is out there, Sabrina’s life is in danger. She has to go into
Witness Protection and is (thankfully) off of our screens.<o:p></o:p></div>
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* When “Jake’s” memories return, it’s Jason Quartermaine,
not Jason Morgan that awakens. Jason <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Frz46B4onKRzkRu1jMev3A63AHxGAqkOT97NSmBWtOwJ5QQaglSDFrXVAquZz5ylRLOx-WdvcWdNs5LKLkt0q0JLHEXfsGItq7rUCzEJHt5-kZgGWfYpd9I072-dSIGTIC5lRv0ew4hH/s1600/gh+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Frz46B4onKRzkRu1jMev3A63AHxGAqkOT97NSmBWtOwJ5QQaglSDFrXVAquZz5ylRLOx-WdvcWdNs5LKLkt0q0JLHEXfsGItq7rUCzEJHt5-kZgGWfYpd9I072-dSIGTIC5lRv0ew4hH/s1600/gh+4.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></div>
Quartermaine reunites with Monica and
wants to make amends for his past deeds. He also wants to cut ties with certain
factions – including Carly. While he’ll always be there for Morgan and Michael –
Jason Q is not pro-mob. Since it has become obvious that Liz and “Jake” are
going to fall in love before Jason regains his memory, I would like Jason Q to
move away from both Liz and Sam when he comes around. Everyone knows that Jason
Q wouldn’t touch Sam with a 10-foot pole, and I’ve never believed the Liz and
Jason “love” story. Let’s give Monica some time with her son, and fans the
chance to get used to the new Jason.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWODKrEmNnBTuEkhLoRTRnuWTJ7OW_8hifGpBc2yF1fGaUNY7GgmiVOy4uYJ-Z7YFTX_pcNAZQvCeluhb2F5oFzBcSTbNtNUmoP973RHWO4pSoHkoReLz4wvdjvyJvbkr9CMKczXzuXs1h/s1600/gh+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWODKrEmNnBTuEkhLoRTRnuWTJ7OW_8hifGpBc2yF1fGaUNY7GgmiVOy4uYJ-Z7YFTX_pcNAZQvCeluhb2F5oFzBcSTbNtNUmoP973RHWO4pSoHkoReLz4wvdjvyJvbkr9CMKczXzuXs1h/s1600/gh+5.jpg" height="189" width="320" /></a></div>
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* When Robin returns to town, I want her to smack the crap
out of Patrick. This is not a stupid man. So, why, given all that he knows
about the Cassidines and Jerry Jacks, isn’t he suspicious about Robin
voluntarily abandoning her family? Jerry Jacks was one of the individuals
responsible for kidnapping her in the first place – and he just shows up again?
Really? I want Robin to take a step back from Patrick. He’s proven to be
fickle (and apparently stupid) when it fits his needs. How about the romance I’ve
always wanted to see? How about Nikolas and Robin get a chance? Put Sam in a
triangle with Patrick and Silas and see who comes out standing – and no “back-from-the-dead”
women to conveniently muck things up.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYMgQamieHRxpgeDmPxch40l5XpsbY5jaxZYOCBL9sGiQ4awdvvcHdJhBP9QJMXXPfwUzkXu0ZnFsnl3yTkcrsgvtr_SAuSNPIrThF1YWjhxwtQ_RF4ycnsvIfcudkQ1LvGimUrBZTaJh1/s1600/gh+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYMgQamieHRxpgeDmPxch40l5XpsbY5jaxZYOCBL9sGiQ4awdvvcHdJhBP9QJMXXPfwUzkXu0ZnFsnl3yTkcrsgvtr_SAuSNPIrThF1YWjhxwtQ_RF4ycnsvIfcudkQ1LvGimUrBZTaJh1/s1600/gh+6.jpg" height="177" width="320" /></a>* It’s time to kill Ava off in a murder-mystery. I love
Maura West beyond reason, but Ava cannot be redeemed. She shot Connie in cold
blood. She tried to kill AJ in cold blood. She watched Sonny murder AJ, all the
while knowing that he was innocent. She slept with her daughter’s husband. She
tried to poison her daughter’s boyfriend. She framed Carlos and sent him to
jail for her misdeeds. How, exactly, can anyone root for this woman? She’s not
even fun to hate because there’s nothing to like about her. There are plenty of
people who want her dead.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgijDryx4fTY2euaijs_B39vPL0Sl0WAgwGco4d1F5vwIq1ii6uMVu2ZYlySa6y9pxZnJ4kGtuDY8_rwoWg5Ti-EVVaDeSRrNwKr37RH-qmwH3SNVw6ekfMKC-UYVWdcaAlw4caTm0PymCT/s1600/gh+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgijDryx4fTY2euaijs_B39vPL0Sl0WAgwGco4d1F5vwIq1ii6uMVu2ZYlySa6y9pxZnJ4kGtuDY8_rwoWg5Ti-EVVaDeSRrNwKr37RH-qmwH3SNVw6ekfMKC-UYVWdcaAlw4caTm0PymCT/s1600/gh+7.jpg" height="181" width="320" /></a></div>
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* Have Nina revealed as Ava’s killer. I’m sorry. I know
Michelle Stafford has fans. I cannot watch her, though. All Nina needs is a
mustache to twirl and some rope so she can tie Kiki to the train tracks. The
Nina character was completely unnecessary from the beginning – and then to make
her obviously crazy and evil without giving fans enough time to even try to
like her? Who thought of that braniac idea? Nina is another character without
rooting value because she’s just unlikeable. Reveal her as Ava’s killer and
send her to prison. She’s a huge time suck – and she has no redeeming
qualities. She’s not even funny evil like Heather and Dr. Obrecht.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSyVGbtWP3yzx0FXZihYqAblKumlMazY2QSMNO-FWt-YGmUBFEYyH5D2r9DEFhqaDNgJRo8Vqd_8uC-TbTQ7frmvHZPCaA1c1JHAkUneie7i_X4fyFeEkKCXQ8nllA4W2qxtg-rPt2rhDk/s1600/gh+8.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSyVGbtWP3yzx0FXZihYqAblKumlMazY2QSMNO-FWt-YGmUBFEYyH5D2r9DEFhqaDNgJRo8Vqd_8uC-TbTQ7frmvHZPCaA1c1JHAkUneie7i_X4fyFeEkKCXQ8nllA4W2qxtg-rPt2rhDk/s1600/gh+8.png" height="175" width="320" /></a>* Bring Robert back and let him and Anna clean up the mob.
This show is called <i>General Hospital</i>.The mob should have never been the focal
point. The focus on Sonny, Carly, and Jason is what put GH in constant danger
of cancellation in the first place. Anna’s reunion with Duke has fallen flat
(is he even still in town?) and Robert and Anna are the team to beat when it
comes to bringing down the bad guys. Let them round up the usual suspects –
including Julian – and be done with them.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiknirpaiqrJXCaZgQgW1d60RIuUXZKiYdpnJOkL3qv3k7sQWT8PNuuCqeycJTO56jqo-Dm_HzqB3M1VAef32Wq5ZVWeNJqtyLWwsRMtFNSm-s3px53hw6AO2uknTfvzEG4R5DDsahn-n0D/s1600/gh+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiknirpaiqrJXCaZgQgW1d60RIuUXZKiYdpnJOkL3qv3k7sQWT8PNuuCqeycJTO56jqo-Dm_HzqB3M1VAef32Wq5ZVWeNJqtyLWwsRMtFNSm-s3px53hw6AO2uknTfvzEG4R5DDsahn-n0D/s1600/gh+8.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
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* Give Alexis and Ned an actual romance. These two sparkle
together – and you can tell the actor and actress like each other. Alexis’
constant need for a “bad boy” often makes me dislike the character. Ned and
Alexis were always fun. Put Alexis back in the ELQ orbit and let her spar with
Tracy, and let Robert and Anna roust Julian Jerome.<o:p></o:p></div>
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* Oust Kiki and Rosalie. Neither are acceptable love
interests for Michael and Morgan. Bring in <o:p></o:p></div>
Scott, Lucy, and Kevin’s kids and
let the old crash into the new. Those are pairings with history that give the
adults something to do.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIog_JEXAdMyX-q84WbCXcjQzR5dGYNtNX9wTxvHUkAFWmo4fMyCv3K6xCb28AMUX2QsPmPEzV8itoJZEVk-tB0pMAEoq7CHXSioyNCAFLZ31kr9a-jquu8gFJvPk8DyUQFH72PTz5Lkkk/s1600/gh+9.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIog_JEXAdMyX-q84WbCXcjQzR5dGYNtNX9wTxvHUkAFWmo4fMyCv3K6xCb28AMUX2QsPmPEzV8itoJZEVk-tB0pMAEoq7CHXSioyNCAFLZ31kr9a-jquu8gFJvPk8DyUQFH72PTz5Lkkk/s1600/gh+9.png" height="181" width="320" /></a>* Put Milo in the gay storyline. I’m still not sure what the
writers were thinking by trying to put <o:p></o:p></div>
Epiphany and Milo together. There’s no
chemistry (even if you could get past the obvious problem with the
relationship). The story isn’t believable because the characters have nothing
in common. I’ve often thought Milo was underutilized. What not make him realize
he’s gay and pair him up with Lucas for an actual love story? Go ahead and keep
Brad in the mix, but send Felix out of town with his BFF and call it a day. As
it is being written now, the all-male love triangle is tacky and full of clichés.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig3jL3wftX7ZjKbMvBxxAb42R3kUSiFBlLx5mk5Wx4PRdI8aHnE7YkCUjh0kPSrDs-SrimKJ5NeXrxNj2WtFSNGkqe7EksYm9BV4Riu-x8Niz9UQnzV66PKYHHoOyIkqjCuQMIIrjvoJhP/s1600/gh+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig3jL3wftX7ZjKbMvBxxAb42R3kUSiFBlLx5mk5Wx4PRdI8aHnE7YkCUjh0kPSrDs-SrimKJ5NeXrxNj2WtFSNGkqe7EksYm9BV4Riu-x8Niz9UQnzV66PKYHHoOyIkqjCuQMIIrjvoJhP/s1600/gh+9.jpg" height="160" width="320" /></a></div>
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* Have Bobbie run the Brownstone. This gives Bobbie
something to do, and all those shiftless 20-somethings somewhere to live.
Morgan, Michael, Dante, Lulu, Britt, Lucas, Brad, Milo, Nathan, Maxie and TJ
all need a home. Lulu and Dante’s one-room apartment is too small for them –
let alone a baby. Putting everyone under one roof allows for fun and mayhem.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV8iZVcGL746tIbM7DaP2TzgdXkO4VFFBJWhJhUydZGpwlxGN6ljKhbLgTB1L6-s-1VOaVDke4gf4CmRKSdU4MhXHkGKKpzleZyRvuQVW7KhueZJXRZy15RouvX-0-p-t57OAhLedt15lE/s1600/gh+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV8iZVcGL746tIbM7DaP2TzgdXkO4VFFBJWhJhUydZGpwlxGN6ljKhbLgTB1L6-s-1VOaVDke4gf4CmRKSdU4MhXHkGKKpzleZyRvuQVW7KhueZJXRZy15RouvX-0-p-t57OAhLedt15lE/s1600/gh+1.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a>* Bring Jacks back for Carly. He's the only love interest that's ever worked for her. This Franco thing has been a complete dud -- and trying to wedge Carly and Sonny back together has disaster (and ratings upheaval) written all over it. Laura Wright and Maurice Benard have no sexual chemistry. Roger Howarth and Wright do have chemistry -- but Franco is a horrible character. And, say whatever you want about Carly, she would not date the man who kidnapped her child and had her son raped. She's a horrible person. She wouldn't do that, though.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg874B59ZKkORjIrIdOYy7dmKv-mayI6ctsmmz34_2df8xhrFATPx4MeyRCXfMWt0rrVw92-bb9QHNmV6sbHLnizz-zZQljo0JTDVIIRfwWG-lmNHA1E-yhnHHIqyCOGf_xB7v_ooUcQEPk/s1600/gh+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg874B59ZKkORjIrIdOYy7dmKv-mayI6ctsmmz34_2df8xhrFATPx4MeyRCXfMWt0rrVw92-bb9QHNmV6sbHLnizz-zZQljo0JTDVIIRfwWG-lmNHA1E-yhnHHIqyCOGf_xB7v_ooUcQEPk/s1600/gh+10.jpg" height="176" width="320" /></a></div>
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* Send Luke and Laura off into the sunset. The fact that
Tracy can’t tell the difference between Fluke and Luke is telling. As much as I
like Luke and Tracy – and I do – Luke and Laura pretty much have to end up
together. Have her come to town to visit Lulu and realize right away that Fluke
isn’t Luke. Have her stay for the adventure storyline, and then have her and
Luke ride off into the sunset. If Geary doesn’t want to work a full year
anymore, then let him retire. All of Luke’s comings and goings (and, yes, I
know this time he had to have surgery and do not fault him for that – I’m
talking about all of the other times) wear on the story and the viewers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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What do you think? How would you write GH if you could?<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-21604574285054584772014-10-14T14:21:00.003-07:002014-10-14T14:21:38.379-07:00Why jumping on the bandwagon for books, movies, and television is a mixed bag<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m usually in front of most bandwagons. When I fall behind,
though, it generally takes me forever to catch up.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOW9eR3vCYd-tZ7NNFX38iaua2qbg_-iZc-FPXolxYhM-d9c0G9S8hb6VVmS7Aa_yHfkajIAeuxYWJFr8WnmwfQmWsE8ztrhLwse2ah_LaxUUO0BSmOA9HWf8X2XORaPlKNNTuTMcnSNbv/s1600/gone+girl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOW9eR3vCYd-tZ7NNFX38iaua2qbg_-iZc-FPXolxYhM-d9c0G9S8hb6VVmS7Aa_yHfkajIAeuxYWJFr8WnmwfQmWsE8ztrhLwse2ah_LaxUUO0BSmOA9HWf8X2XORaPlKNNTuTMcnSNbv/s1600/gone+girl.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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I guess that’s why I didn’t read Gillian Flynn’s <i>Gone Girl
</i>until this past weekend. And, before you ask, it’s not so I can go and see the
movie. I will eventually see the movie – but probably not until it’s out on
Blu-Ray or On Demand.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anyway, back to the book. I kept hearing how well it was
written and how amazing the “twist” was, and I figured it sounded interesting.
So, I finally sat down and read it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The first thing that jumped out at me was the fact that it
was overwritten. I mean way overwritten. I don’t think everything has to be
written in simplistic sentences – and I love the Terry Brooks and Stephen King
prose forms – but the inner-monologues (especially when it comes to Nick) just
go on and on – repeating things until I thought: I just can’t hear this one more
time.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7XIjBsUe5qY0NT329fw3jOHNELklAFBAGMDAoz9fZ4fOoXAn8fvK8yMe_kM3n_St9_brc37yTr_039c-bV9fuy8Ack4fxZD5qwMVHcjXXJw8iIVqak6ejTsoOASrTGpwQd2P2yxU0I6fW/s1600/gone-girl+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7XIjBsUe5qY0NT329fw3jOHNELklAFBAGMDAoz9fZ4fOoXAn8fvK8yMe_kM3n_St9_brc37yTr_039c-bV9fuy8Ack4fxZD5qwMVHcjXXJw8iIVqak6ejTsoOASrTGpwQd2P2yxU0I6fW/s1600/gone-girl+2.jpg" height="320" width="208" /></a>And I get why we’re not supposed to warm up to Nick at
first. He’s a suspect in his wife’s disappearance. There’s supposed to be
something “odd” about him. When I finally did get to the twist, it wasn’t a big
surprise. I was expecting more actually – which is why word-of-mouth phenomenon can backfire on readers and viewers.</div>
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<br /></div>
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And, while I don’t want to get into a debate about the ending
because I don’t want to ruin it for people, since I found the vast majority of
people in this book to be unlikeable, I will say I was fine with the ending.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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While I didn’t dislike <i>Gone Girl</i>, I certainly didn’t think
it was amazing either. It did get me thinking about the nature of a bandwagon, however.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sometimes, when you come to the party late, you find you
love what you’ve been missing. That happened to me with <i>Buffy the Vampire
Slayer</i>, <i>Harry Potter</i>, and <i>The Hunger Games</i>. I didn’t start watching Buffy until
late in the second season (and then never missed an episode). I didn’t start
reading Harry Potter until the fourth book hit shelves. And all three of <i>The
Hunger Games</i> books were out – and on top of best sellers lists for years – before I
finally took the plunge.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzyipPiBf0QSttVjvMDvlkg3HLCMenGQMV1EAjqPs3CTjh4hy1XX2QIjxoB6zIevFLUrOkxIwowIKw14IYgf6op8q95c5F1iLC7av9FPHAZKggktO1Gg99MI3ebfE4FTNULPZGxfCNgyBQ/s1600/gone+girl+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzyipPiBf0QSttVjvMDvlkg3HLCMenGQMV1EAjqPs3CTjh4hy1XX2QIjxoB6zIevFLUrOkxIwowIKw14IYgf6op8q95c5F1iLC7av9FPHAZKggktO1Gg99MI3ebfE4FTNULPZGxfCNgyBQ/s1600/gone+girl+3.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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Oh, and I came to the <i>Girl With the Dragon Tattoo</i> sensation
late – and I absolutely loved all three of those books.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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On the flip side, when I caved to the <i>Twilight</i> pressure I
wanted to smack someone I hated the books (and especially Bella) so much. When
I sampled <i>Divergent</i>, I wanted to smack someone again (talk about a terrible
ending – <i>The Village </i>meets <i>The Truman Show</i> anyone?) and this time I wanted to
smack them with the Sears Tower in Chicago. And, when I finally check out the
television show <i>Grimm</i> I wanted to laugh (and not in a good way) because I found
it to be so poorly done.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Everyone has different tastes. I know that. Sometimes the
buildup helps a show or book, and <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_frIRr12EFS7xbKuhj_0P6O8NxQzgrAxzei9OMnteXxtmSbWCZ2ps4yV67XMTeidvTZ5gLSVxjLL0q3UiJMNVWzY0OZSQflIISzdiQukkHAtuC1Umwly9O4vO7OPTD6b85fzHnAarMTIt/s1600/gone+girl+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_frIRr12EFS7xbKuhj_0P6O8NxQzgrAxzei9OMnteXxtmSbWCZ2ps4yV67XMTeidvTZ5gLSVxjLL0q3UiJMNVWzY0OZSQflIISzdiQukkHAtuC1Umwly9O4vO7OPTD6b85fzHnAarMTIt/s1600/gone+girl+4.jpg" height="195" width="320" /></a></div>
sometimes it hurts.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have a feeling it hurt where <i>Gone Girl</i> is concerned. It is
an interesting twist. I think the writing was decent – although obviously
padded – and I have real trouble believing anyone writes in their journal with
the amount of detail Amy used in the book (even a rampant narcissist and sociopath).<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I just don’t think it was the be all and end all of modern
fiction like some people are suggesting. It was merely “interesting” to me. It was a decent character study.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I will, however, check out the movie down the line.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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What do you think? What bandwagon have you jumped on that
you wish you could jump off?<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-15891195960382626132014-10-10T14:51:00.001-07:002014-10-10T14:51:15.993-07:00Why American Horror Story: Freak Show is already wearing on me<div class="MsoNormal">
I go back and forth on <i>American Horror Story</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I was really excited for the first season, and I thought the
quality associated with the show for the first handful of episodes in that
season was stellar.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPyQ63W5Qa11rZUuWZcL38xfL56ExznCmI58DrI9oE8SyBjNpcs27Y7hJQ2xxoRU6GxMjRDnn5oow0r1KBJagmywLL-qcHo68xZ7wArbKAsG9BH3DPdScQ6GmquZihD1lpRVvkLZASvrM_/s1600/ahs1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPyQ63W5Qa11rZUuWZcL38xfL56ExznCmI58DrI9oE8SyBjNpcs27Y7hJQ2xxoRU6GxMjRDnn5oow0r1KBJagmywLL-qcHo68xZ7wArbKAsG9BH3DPdScQ6GmquZihD1lpRVvkLZASvrM_/s1600/ahs1.jpg" height="160" width="320" /></a></div>
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Unfortunately, just like everything else he’s ever produced,
Ryan Murphy took it a step too far. He always takes it a step too far – which is
the problem I consistently have with each <i>American Horror Story</i> season.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>AHS: Asylum</i> started out phenomenally – creating a gritty
world that you wanted to know more about. The Nazi doctor angle was inspired,
and the social commentary affixed to being able to lock a woman up for being a
lesbian in those days was poignant.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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That was all painted on a backdrop of dueling serial killers
working in the past and present day.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then Murphy insisted on including an Anne Frank angle – and then
reinforcing a strong season with <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipAUauSuLgwEEqEYIPTpULNaw2LhAsQCL2jMt9tvJ8wI7Cw9QwtTy95S1Hapb43tYyyQIhtRmfqaisXqsCQAa6ZmQY4WFwKp1L3yA8ql_NOiY51pP2f7Rp58PKLFR8D39flTFj1w984YGO/s1600/ahs2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipAUauSuLgwEEqEYIPTpULNaw2LhAsQCL2jMt9tvJ8wI7Cw9QwtTy95S1Hapb43tYyyQIhtRmfqaisXqsCQAa6ZmQY4WFwKp1L3yA8ql_NOiY51pP2f7Rp58PKLFR8D39flTFj1w984YGO/s1600/ahs2.png" height="164" width="320" /></a></div>
alien abductions and magical hybrid baby
births. Ugh.<br />
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<br /></div>
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I was a big fan of the <i>Coven</i> arc – mostly because I loved
the New Orleans setting and I thought Kathy Bates and Angela Bassett were
fantastic additions to the AHS universe. As a whole, I do think the <i>Coven</i> arc
held together the best – but it still wasn’t perfect.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Which brings us to <i>AHS: Freak Show</i>, which debuted Wednesday
night.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMkdgGROQ5AuKRUBjaIC05DnuXWTARnXmEFqEH-UKC9xiwbgZsxgD_v9d-u6aKGHZFzl42zwnGl_BmgyZ5-KZajQX6XAMBnoj6E4GfTLKdUGEtCyzFbMxJEpYohq7jRpQ_f4Oed__bDJ4P/s1600/ahs3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMkdgGROQ5AuKRUBjaIC05DnuXWTARnXmEFqEH-UKC9xiwbgZsxgD_v9d-u6aKGHZFzl42zwnGl_BmgyZ5-KZajQX6XAMBnoj6E4GfTLKdUGEtCyzFbMxJEpYohq7jRpQ_f4Oed__bDJ4P/s1600/ahs3.png" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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The whole point of AHS was to create a horror anthology.
Sure, because Murphy is in charge, those horror anthologies often go off
course. I’d rather see genuine fear than forced sexual innuendo that is meant
to titillate instead of terrify the viewer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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For example? Evan Peters went a little too far for me in his
rubber rapist outfit in the first season. Now, in the first episode of <i>Freak
Show</i>, we see he has “magic hands.” That whole scene was just about pushing the
envelope – not about character development – which is why it failed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Then you have a sociopath who wants to buy conjoined twins
for god knows what reason – although<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTVNyfWjKX_Aroak8-RLXHWIIEnZ-hvWrsP1R8CRKuuLe9kGnPQrsac-yGWwslAJKce20IkaEH9z-cu2Ijep7tpa0O4twlCq0HSufxcZFpL39EPAPMqLdaOo5TWupYru9rPHXHnyO2yvaV/s1600/ahs4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTVNyfWjKX_Aroak8-RLXHWIIEnZ-hvWrsP1R8CRKuuLe9kGnPQrsac-yGWwslAJKce20IkaEH9z-cu2Ijep7tpa0O4twlCq0HSufxcZFpL39EPAPMqLdaOo5TWupYru9rPHXHnyO2yvaV/s1600/ahs4.jpg" height="217" width="320" /></a></div>
I’m betting it’s sexual and nefarious – and
a killer clown. I don’t know about anyone else, but I think the people the
clown killed deserved to die. I mean, who takes a look at a creepy clown like
that and doesn’t think something odd is up? And why did that girl in the field trip? That was just so ... lame.<br />
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<br /></div>
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And then there's the whole time traveling music thing. Jessica Lange is singing a David Bowie song (loved the blue eye shadow, though) in the 1950s? How does that work?</div>
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<br /></div>
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I get the alienation associated with these freak shows -- and I think the arc could be fantastic -- but immediately going for multiple murders with a freaky clown, conjoined twins, and a lobster-clawed man seems like a contrived and insulting way to go.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Right from the get go this season, it seems as if AHS has
gone too far for me – and that’s usually something that only happens on the
back half of a season. I’ll still check it out – but I’m not exactly thrilled
with how this arc is going already.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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What do you think? Are you a fan of <i>Freak Show</i>?<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-37314578818321261542014-10-08T17:41:00.001-07:002014-10-08T17:41:46.749-07:00The top five things I want to see on this season of The Walking Dead<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the only television shows I’m truly passionate about
these days – <i>The Walking Dead</i> – returns Sunday, and I honestly can’t wait.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidlrafY5DEqy1e5j1v-OVKcBF5vgrcpj_-6Qt0qu_bSXTur2_KsEdXnbwcz3WVGK5x_HzkV3SmS1S41h82dTtvJhTFdPqIzXm30B5E9e0vjRXBpmTK6YnHVe0Ak1Km5HvHurNDwLedr1sj/s1600/walking+dead+1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidlrafY5DEqy1e5j1v-OVKcBF5vgrcpj_-6Qt0qu_bSXTur2_KsEdXnbwcz3WVGK5x_HzkV3SmS1S41h82dTtvJhTFdPqIzXm30B5E9e0vjRXBpmTK6YnHVe0Ak1Km5HvHurNDwLedr1sj/s1600/walking+dead+1.jpeg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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I’ve given up a lot of shows over the past year – some were
long overdue, some just lost my interest, and others (cough*<i>Once Upon a Time</i>*cough)
are barely hanging on. <i>The Walking Dead</i> is one of the only shows that I’m
actually excited about.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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When we last saw our heroes, the bulk of them had been
reunited in Terminus. It wasn’t exactly a happy reunion, since they were locked
in a box car together and, when Rick and his group were herded through the
sanctuary, it certainly looked like the Terminus folks were cannibals.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I’m not particularly worried about Rick and the rest of our
survivors being eaten (although, it would be a gutsy move and I nominate Sasha
or Bob for the task if it happens), but I am worried about everyone being
reunited.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqdX76kv8WuFzPK1b7ZUrTKFQk5u817HT56K5orccvin3nFJ8WHnmhYwNVvrNVJhJPzlGf6jYMMfMQwPXpY8USmVp9K1SZTwuD_VyKafPxA7phmvz61gpuXXbJO9_S3uCmHt6J72BNh159/s1600/walking+dead+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqdX76kv8WuFzPK1b7ZUrTKFQk5u817HT56K5orccvin3nFJ8WHnmhYwNVvrNVJhJPzlGf6jYMMfMQwPXpY8USmVp9K1SZTwuD_VyKafPxA7phmvz61gpuXXbJO9_S3uCmHt6J72BNh159/s1600/walking+dead+5.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Everything I’ve read about this season says the folks at
Terminus are not going to be the big bad – and it does sound like people are
splitting up again. Eugene needs to get to Washington D.C. to save the world –
and some of our heroes are probably going to go with him.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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I can’t see Rick being one of them, and there are still a
few other things to deal with this season.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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So, what are the top five most important things I want to
see happen this season:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirEZO1sM03hOfqiIiw7GIPZEQZ0KoQSHG-SXtJy-OIUVJ1ZOAjgA-ThERzkFWMN3uoUmqRKOEK_H6qmuutHG8uJAr7fyNhoBjwCJMgUq63RmQMuIVfZlJjlhSsLt9eVfa5sIZyuez5BH3_/s1600/walking+dead+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirEZO1sM03hOfqiIiw7GIPZEQZ0KoQSHG-SXtJy-OIUVJ1ZOAjgA-ThERzkFWMN3uoUmqRKOEK_H6qmuutHG8uJAr7fyNhoBjwCJMgUq63RmQMuIVfZlJjlhSsLt9eVfa5sIZyuez5BH3_/s1600/walking+dead+7.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>5. Rick needs to pick a persona – and stick with it:</b> We’ve
seen Rick run the gamut of human emotion, from confusion, to happiness, to
sadness, to rage, to downright fury. I didn’t quite understand his turn as
farmer early in season four. Yes, I know the writers wanted us to see that
going back to a normal life was out of the question for these people, but after
running the Governor out of town it didn’t make a lot of sense to me for Rick
to just give in the way he did. His return to warrior was welcome – and Carl
finally showing him that he was a man, too, was needed. In the end, it was Rick
who rallied his troops. I want to see that continue this season.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>4. Daryl needs some action:</b> I was all for Carol and Daryl to
get it on a few years ago – and I’m still<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo1jUefu0-p129qDE2ERP4o6k3Up_Qq8p3obrQxOjclsg7aO3ZtTvGjEy_uNMxuWngJoHmUfkl-7Wqjko8DGbYV8vY4dRWhZCvOtFvLUfo9mfW-bKkJfMPw4iPEZQIFr1vBOadVnPzgUCQ/s1600/walking+dead+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo1jUefu0-p129qDE2ERP4o6k3Up_Qq8p3obrQxOjclsg7aO3ZtTvGjEy_uNMxuWngJoHmUfkl-7Wqjko8DGbYV8vY4dRWhZCvOtFvLUfo9mfW-bKkJfMPw4iPEZQIFr1vBOadVnPzgUCQ/s1600/walking+dead+4.jpg" height="225" width="320" /></a></div>
not opposed to it. I’m not sure if it’s
in the cards, though. I think we’re going to get Carol and Tyrese instead – which
makes me worried they’re going to try and force the Daryl and Beth issue. When
we were introduced to Beth, she was still a minor living in her father’s home.
Now, she may have turned eighteen, but Norman Reedus is 45, and Daryl is just
too old for Beth. It’s creepy. And dirty. And I don’t want to see them go
there. I do think poor Daryl needs some loving, though – I’m just not quite
sure who is going to give it to him.<br />
<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLU4-nGVRlCmqLCnQ0-EzgZMoqsiIiYZTDCYPcf5et7e7aUiRBrdqb-s_TB52eW0eNp9O0roDnOxyOavHdte_ipxKdqRnRebug_JvcjwtR7ybGqxljm2dslezNbvX9uwtpWS4bpzg1YGc/s1600/walking+dead+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLU4-nGVRlCmqLCnQ0-EzgZMoqsiIiYZTDCYPcf5et7e7aUiRBrdqb-s_TB52eW0eNp9O0roDnOxyOavHdte_ipxKdqRnRebug_JvcjwtR7ybGqxljm2dslezNbvX9uwtpWS4bpzg1YGc/s1600/walking+dead+2.jpg" height="198" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>3. Trimming the cast:</b> This is inevitable on a show like
this. People are going to die. And, while the bulk of the Woodbury folks
introduced at the end of season three died by the middle of season four –
either by flu or the Governor’s attack – we still had a fairly big cast at the
end of the year. I think that Sasha, Bob, Tara, and Rosita are the obvious
choices for first victim – and I’m fine with any of them going. At least one
big character we’ve grown to love bites it each season, though, and this season
I’m worried about Glen. There was a lot of foreshadowing to Hershel’s death
before it happened, and I feel Glen was getting that treatment at the end of
season four. I love the character, and I’ll be sad to see him go, but when you
look at the other options, I’m not sure there’s another choice. Maggie and Glen
are the romantic core of this show – which could change things drastically. I’m
hoping Glen survives – but I’m not sure, especially given how small the core
group is now, who else they could kill off. While I do think Rick will
eventually die – I think he’s safe until the final season. And, if Daryl dies, people will riot. Who else does that leave?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>2. Beth needs to be rescued:</b> This may come as a surprise to
folks, but I want Beth rescued and not <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge12f-Fh3tSZye-p4k1bgPeKS4594L9xACwsp0gC30dz2MyKBwhBh-K30qyTj2xiQB0dgB_qgAvbpx3XOJdiXah1qv4gfb6Nj0Zaj27UXnMe4GIWic-_yZx6ya6uf5pv-pzWGUQ4TLosqS/s1600/walking+dead+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge12f-Fh3tSZye-p4k1bgPeKS4594L9xACwsp0gC30dz2MyKBwhBh-K30qyTj2xiQB0dgB_qgAvbpx3XOJdiXah1qv4gfb6Nj0Zaj27UXnMe4GIWic-_yZx6ya6uf5pv-pzWGUQ4TLosqS/s1600/walking+dead+8.jpg" height="185" width="320" /></a></div>
killed. Yeah, I said it. The singing
blonde has been at the top of my hit list for two seasons, but I actually
started to like her in season four. Sure, it took Daryl to humanize her – but it
took her to give Daryl more layers, too. And, while I could still take or leave
Beth as a solitary character, I think her return to the fold is what Maggie
and Daryl need. I still don’t want her and Daryl paired together. He’s too old
for her and it’s creepy – but I do want her to come home to them. After Hershel’s
death, I want Maggie and Beth to get their reunion.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDiec2zViFzFXuPavw6hqjP0vGOVXIOs2K-Sq7I2tAhH1e1m9NTZeauER5YCfLToUSr1Rfcgao7eDlFq6JfXyGiWIXa1bZQ81IwDT14fznhz0jFMblm9gx0GvErfSy0VF1DGTC34DlqqkA/s1600/walking+dead+9.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDiec2zViFzFXuPavw6hqjP0vGOVXIOs2K-Sq7I2tAhH1e1m9NTZeauER5YCfLToUSr1Rfcgao7eDlFq6JfXyGiWIXa1bZQ81IwDT14fznhz0jFMblm9gx0GvErfSy0VF1DGTC34DlqqkA/s1600/walking+dead+9.png" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>1. Carol’s return to the fold:</b> Carol got the strongest arc
last season (well, her and Daryl). She went from a battered woman in season
one, to a grieving mother in season two, to a woman who started thinking for
herself but still needed to be saved in season three, to a total badass who
killed two sick people in cold blood to protect the rest of the group in season
four. Not only did she admit her culpability in his girlfriend’s death to
Tyrese (fully expecting to be killed), but she also put down a “messed up”
Lizzy by shooting her in the back. Each season of this show seems to have two
episodes that simply take your breath away. Carol was the star of the second
this past season. I’m hoping the reunion between Rick, Carol, and Judith (and Tyrese
and Sasha as a secondary) happens early. Both Rick and Carol deserve a little
forgiveness – and for something good to happen.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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What do you think? What are you most excited about this
season?<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-61994891044471265472014-10-08T15:47:00.001-07:002014-10-08T15:47:34.214-07:00GENERAL HOSPITAL: The five reasons I'm no longer a daily General Hospital watcher<div class="MsoNormal">
You might have noticed I haven’t written about <i>General
Hospital</i> lately (or, maybe you haven’t).<o:p></o:p></div>
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The truth is, I’ve almost completely lost interest.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Yes, I’ve been busy with other stuff – but I have taken to
deleting my DVR’d episodes of the show <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_mbAMZUzbieAVzD773Nna9zQgaJ3qj2MKVaacTRu0L5EbKztata7s2CZRnTZTyHXepvrQtFyTiM6RJ_nnePCoBkEaV4GmdKuPLU7VoGZ9ZaMhdI9wdGsIKHTyVNJNbF01yR0yTLxLUfr6/s1600/gh+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_mbAMZUzbieAVzD773Nna9zQgaJ3qj2MKVaacTRu0L5EbKztata7s2CZRnTZTyHXepvrQtFyTiM6RJ_nnePCoBkEaV4GmdKuPLU7VoGZ9ZaMhdI9wdGsIKHTyVNJNbF01yR0yTLxLUfr6/s1600/gh+1.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
without watching them.<br />
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<br /></div>
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That’s a comment on the writing, folks, because nothing has
tuned me out like this before (and I’ve been watching religiously since I was a
small child).</div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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While I applaud Ron Carlivait for bringing some of our
beloved vets back to town – I cannot give him a pass on the (numerous) other
bad choices he’s made. When I do watch the show now, it’s an experiment in
frustration and sadness.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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So, what are my big gripes?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzV6qgygKezRanOjCcvNSOZh4AHx13yKDFX2GWfr9WXZn8D1v4MmcR7iI9tyzSLhBvYYusTJ4JvfDZ8dr3QSnEiXIj4ARgJ2usgObq0eQ3wUUc0amUNA-NJQ5rauQDIA1NrKGcvIduLOtG/s1600/gh+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzV6qgygKezRanOjCcvNSOZh4AHx13yKDFX2GWfr9WXZn8D1v4MmcR7iI9tyzSLhBvYYusTJ4JvfDZ8dr3QSnEiXIj4ARgJ2usgObq0eQ3wUUc0amUNA-NJQ5rauQDIA1NrKGcvIduLOtG/s1600/gh+2.jpg" height="204" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>1. There are too many characters: </b>The canvas is too big.
Period. You need to get dump at least five contract players, and another
handful of recurring ones to make room. You can’t build momentum in a story
when you have this many characters. There are a lot of little islands in that
cast who lift right out. Start with Sabrina (she can’t be redeemed now anyway),
Felix, Olivia, Franco (I love Roger Howarth – but the character is a dud),
Jordan, Shawn, Rosalie, and Nina (I can’t name one person who likes the
character). Then, bump off Ava in a murder mystery (Maura West is a dream, but
Ava can’t be redeemed), and bring on Scotty and Lucy’s kid to date Morgan. This
gives you history and pares down the cast.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>2. Romance:</b> Soaps are called “love in the afternoon” for a
reason. How about some actual love? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhms9rHWLwDf6cAZqtfqtDKr2SZ1KhMm_TLNGBQzXPPjiigCd-qFcAdbSYezTwjca7rKJVM2fUu8h1A2RJB-MCLY-pYvX2AhWGJHvOfUKgvhP8OsZWzEcAtqHceU7X2RfdyTCkBze3qr-KW/s1600/gh+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhms9rHWLwDf6cAZqtfqtDKr2SZ1KhMm_TLNGBQzXPPjiigCd-qFcAdbSYezTwjca7rKJVM2fUu8h1A2RJB-MCLY-pYvX2AhWGJHvOfUKgvhP8OsZWzEcAtqHceU7X2RfdyTCkBze3qr-KW/s1600/gh+3.jpg" height="188" width="320" /></a></div>
Watching Liz flip flop on Nikolas (and him
do the same with Liz and Britt) isn’t entertaining. And now that Liz is going
to be panting after the Mobsicle again? Try to build a love story for Nik and
Britt. Watching Carly and Sonny pant after each other is old (and one of the
reasons GH’s ratings tanked in the first place). Sorry, Maurice Benard and
Laura Wright are fun to watch separately – and as friends – but they have
absolutely no sexual chemistry. Patrick and Sam would’ve worked after Jason and
Robin both “died” but now there are issues. Sam knows Patrick’s heart will
always belong to Robin – who is alive. Patrick knows the Mobiscle was alive a
lot longer than Sam thought he was – and now he’s betraying her. Sam was just
professing her love to Silas a month ago. It’s kind of too late now. When Sam
knows the Mobsicle is back, it’s going to be “Patrick Who?” When Patrick
realizes what was going on with Robin – and how all the signs were there – he’s
going to look stupid. Again. Quite frankly, the only couple with rooting value
right now is Maxie and Nathan and now we’re getting a contrived hurdle being
thrown in their path. How about giving us some actual love before you tear them
apart?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja-ZeOgM-U6TI6LydBvSnzXB2fdZme2_cekge1ZUSCS4d7k_XFbpp80z4vIwbHf7hXcoutxqzKBLIgHlT1QeYLNjC9EVBwSBvTP_fX9SKI7t8Y7pxSxjFJ2oUFwwUXdyQ5mSzdxeuexdYd/s1600/gh+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja-ZeOgM-U6TI6LydBvSnzXB2fdZme2_cekge1ZUSCS4d7k_XFbpp80z4vIwbHf7hXcoutxqzKBLIgHlT1QeYLNjC9EVBwSBvTP_fX9SKI7t8Y7pxSxjFJ2oUFwwUXdyQ5mSzdxeuexdYd/s1600/gh+4.jpg" height="181" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>3. Characters acting out of character:</b> Would Patrick really
lie to Sam about the Mobsicle given what happened with Robin? Would Robin
really voluntarily leave Emma after what happened with Robert and Anna? Would Anna really believe Robin’s excuse
knowing the Cassidines? Wouldn’t Lulu notice that her father can’t remember her
husband’s name? Wouldn’t someone in town realize that Luke would have gone
after Lulu when she was taken? Would Sabrina try to kill a baby after losing
hers (kidnap, yes, but kill?)? Would Mac ever not go after Maxie? Why didn’t
Robin go to Sonny to have him follow her to Jason in the first place? I mean,
the list of contrivances and out-of-control actions is a slap in the face to
fans. It’s a soap. That doesn’t mean the characters have to betray themselves.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDuTg6VaOZh-JkdQ-nKiE-LR62bwWHAMR4147hCAFsk2Lygk1QkGyqAVjVLfJKOkaRvTjYHy0HxasFk_xLRE5Y3bry4kDDVrxBwj796QHD0oU2eTbJ3QKnwn0Q0I-nu98YELFrWl177Ufg/s1600/gh+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDuTg6VaOZh-JkdQ-nKiE-LR62bwWHAMR4147hCAFsk2Lygk1QkGyqAVjVLfJKOkaRvTjYHy0HxasFk_xLRE5Y3bry4kDDVrxBwj796QHD0oU2eTbJ3QKnwn0Q0I-nu98YELFrWl177Ufg/s1600/gh+6.jpg" height="218" width="320" /></a><b>4. Plot driven:</b> I understand you need plot, but I also
understand you need more than plot. We want to see these characters bond. Some
of my favorite all-time scenes involve characters chatting and having fun – not
jumping from plot point to plot point. Examples: Brenda finding out Robin is
HIV positive, Jason carrying Robin off the stage at the Nurse’s Ball, Sonny and
Luke taking Lucky camping as a kid, Alan and Monica freaking out (and Luke and
Laura being proud) when Emily and Lucky ran away together), Lucky’s reaction to
finding Liz in the bushes, Luke helping a shot Nikolas, etc. It was the human
emotion attached to these stories – not the plot of these stories – that drove
the narrative. How about a little of that back? How about a realistic
conversation between Liz and Lulu about Nikolas, Lucky, AJ and Ric? How about
Anna and Alexis getting drunk and talking about the Cassidines? How about Liz
and Carly getting drunk and admitting all of the awful mistakes they’ve made?
Just … something that’s not a plot point being driven home in our heads.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizH9A9ooRvFgg51SwfPuTbK-YUWa9VJpSlV5kXedMGPQMNK2S1t-Vak_6h0p0xlRQ2D1N6VNsiCAqTMqPzlYye6UjM6fEopoBIZuaxevOznegQgAd1g5xsYxNlgSDiyW_28h6YAOyT2G35/s1600/gh+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizH9A9ooRvFgg51SwfPuTbK-YUWa9VJpSlV5kXedMGPQMNK2S1t-Vak_6h0p0xlRQ2D1N6VNsiCAqTMqPzlYye6UjM6fEopoBIZuaxevOznegQgAd1g5xsYxNlgSDiyW_28h6YAOyT2G35/s1600/gh+5.png" height="178" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>5. Baby stories:</b> I know baby stories have been a staple of
soaps for years, but RC seems to have a certain … proclivity when it comes to
them. This is the man who gave us the Jessica and Natalie baby debacle on OLTL –
a story that made me want to kill both of them at one point or another over the
years. Since coming to GH:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Maxie became a surrogate, lost the baby, got pregnant with
her own baby, pretended it was someone else’s baby, gave birth, lost the baby
to the “adoptive parents,” reclaimed the baby, and then lost the baby again. Now
she’s in court to fight for the baby, but there’s clearly something up with
that judge.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrZpwL_fEYMqxW5Q0W4UuUTF2lo22gaQDpBBCDXHRFL80EBCZW6dGmwehwUFv7SJl7X33uc5bsYDbHjc7Q9AoRcirqD19wkkIXW2QInP4ZENK-Pjvx44HGOpgS_T6x1sjOtZ9hp9ue8Ly8/s1600/gh+7.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrZpwL_fEYMqxW5Q0W4UuUTF2lo22gaQDpBBCDXHRFL80EBCZW6dGmwehwUFv7SJl7X33uc5bsYDbHjc7Q9AoRcirqD19wkkIXW2QInP4ZENK-Pjvx44HGOpgS_T6x1sjOtZ9hp9ue8Ly8/s1600/gh+7.png" height="210" width="320" /></a>Lulu is frozen and has no viable eggs. She enlists Maxie as
a surrogate. She loses the baby. She finds out her other embryos are missing. She
finds out someone else gave birth to her baby. She reclaims the baby. She
immediately wants another baby (like in days – so stupid). She finds out she
might be able to carry her own baby. She reclaims an embryo from Obrecht. She
then finds out the Cassidines have made embryos from her eggs and Stravros’
sperm (Ugh!). Now she wants another baby.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Sabrina got dumped on her wedding day. She ended up
pregnant. She got in an accident, gave birth to a towel, then watched the baby
die. Now she’s trying to kill Ava’s baby.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Ava had creepy crypt sex with Sonny and now she’s pregnant.
Sabrina wants to kill her baby. Nina wants to steal her baby. Sonny can’t kill
her until she has the baby. And Morgan? He’s just an idiot.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Starr had a teenage baby (thank you RC) that was switched
with a dead baby. Then, the minute she came to GH, that baby was run off a
cliff and killed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Nina, who is a little long in the tooth to be trying to get
pregnant, has been out of a coma for a few weeks and now she’s going to steal a
baby – and she’s making hit lists.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Sam got pregnant -- maybe with her possible rapist’s baby –
gave birth in a storm, had Heather Webber steal the baby and switch it out with
Tea’s dead baby. Then Sam got her baby back, found out it was Jason’s baby, and
then the kid needed a bone marrow transplant.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Am I missing anyone? Because all of that in a couple-year
period is too much.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I probably won’t ever completely give up on GH – and I am
still hopeful the soap will return to greatness. I can honestly say, though, I
am no longer a daily watcher.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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Anyone else having this conundrum?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-19482830675546760792014-09-04T14:30:00.001-07:002014-09-04T14:30:28.754-07:00TELEVISION: Has Once Upon a Time lost the magic?<div class="MsoNormal">
ABC’s <i>Once Upon a Time</i> is one of those shows I can’t make my
mind up about.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNpWr6DvOIsg68oDzHpK0OBvhMynQDibROMpElpg0ZY2muN-I7Ia_P_D5i1z2hU5Nf528GxUNksaxN8bFuDLbQ2yJLlfsoZGDCfMuHplSIH_C0I9N8EKL-5D-9EJtQE0InwFpEHI3OUcgq/s1600/once+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNpWr6DvOIsg68oDzHpK0OBvhMynQDibROMpElpg0ZY2muN-I7Ia_P_D5i1z2hU5Nf528GxUNksaxN8bFuDLbQ2yJLlfsoZGDCfMuHplSIH_C0I9N8EKL-5D-9EJtQE0InwFpEHI3OUcgq/s1600/once+1.jpg" height="320" width="312" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first season was great. The introduction to the
characters was spot-on – and the show runners managed to seamlessly weave
flashbacks from the Enchanted Forest in with the present day world.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The season one finale was breathtaking – with the greatest
twist on true love’s kiss ever.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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And then?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thud.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The second season started off seconds after the first
concluded, and viewers now found themselves in a world that would never be the
same again.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Emma realized that she was, indeed, the daughter of Snow
White and Prince Charming – and they’d hidden her in a magic tree to protect
her from a curse. Unfortunately for Emma, her life wasn’t exactly Cabbage Patch
Kids and cartoons. No, she grew up in the foster care system, where she was
neglected her entire life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While Snow tried to forge a bond with her daughter right
away, things spun out of control when <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVGCJ7B3Jecx3Xb4XBmCZZNva6yHMmfSEEamHWOIXqWXmYIICS7R-u3WZwzrU4oN57vGdg1VVXLfCA5uMQVZ10MiCrSgvxVuPDxmiqZkZZw4Yqpzj7hYsH-GBZMKAGMIinY9xhlneCwu-u/s1600/once+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVGCJ7B3Jecx3Xb4XBmCZZNva6yHMmfSEEamHWOIXqWXmYIICS7R-u3WZwzrU4oN57vGdg1VVXLfCA5uMQVZ10MiCrSgvxVuPDxmiqZkZZw4Yqpzj7hYsH-GBZMKAGMIinY9xhlneCwu-u/s1600/once+2.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
Emma and her newly discovered mother were
shuttled through a portal to the Enchanted Kingdom – where they remained for
the first third of the second season – away from everyone.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This was our first clue that the writers were penning “ministories”
instead of complete arcs.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first season was one complete arc – and it was
beautifully done. The second and third seasons were broken into parts.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Part One: Emma and Snow in the Enchanted Forest.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Part Two: Cora’s assault on Storybrooke.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Part Three: The “Agency” comes to town.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Part Four: Neverland.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Part Five: Pan in Storybrooke.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Part Six: Return from the Enchanted Forest.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijiymb4zSlF9J4y5tWc3U0bWApv-GvmiL1XxYZF7duXmgB6mCGHJxFZoWQRGugw9c5-WY_VvDK3yxseU0J3udNTwQEcy17-eR2SKVxSnoMn84StKaw3PsanFLU1Pww1xjXXF4UNyMXcT44/s1600/once+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijiymb4zSlF9J4y5tWc3U0bWApv-GvmiL1XxYZF7duXmgB6mCGHJxFZoWQRGugw9c5-WY_VvDK3yxseU0J3udNTwQEcy17-eR2SKVxSnoMn84StKaw3PsanFLU1Pww1xjXXF4UNyMXcT44/s1600/once+3.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The problem is, by creating these “acts” – the writers
actually built stumbling blocks into the narrative. And, when they did that, a
show that was built on the fantasy of fairy tales lost all the fun associated
with them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Where is the fun associated with Emma being the same age as
her parents? Where was the stern talk with Neal (or even Hook) about their
intentions with his daughter?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I understand Ginnifer Goodwin’s real life pregnancy was a
curveball (and she got so big it was virtually impossible to hide her
pregnancy) but there were ways around it. A new baby seems like a contrivance.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I rewatched the third season last week, trying to find
something positive to say about it. This is what I <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRj28BRW85S9Y20OthrI6gC7HH5B5bMGfBGlxFR8r_zDPO8PHa_97PQ2quyiCEak9I5TjjYb-z-fpG1YwiKeJzjaxEhfv7RGuiGaWMpv_SDepPxsP4oznf1DjfzhHe1WPeM4pivwUO570/s1600/once+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRj28BRW85S9Y20OthrI6gC7HH5B5bMGfBGlxFR8r_zDPO8PHa_97PQ2quyiCEak9I5TjjYb-z-fpG1YwiKeJzjaxEhfv7RGuiGaWMpv_SDepPxsP4oznf1DjfzhHe1WPeM4pivwUO570/s1600/once+5.png" height="182" width="320" /></a></div>
came up with: I still like
the actors. I like the chemistry. I like Storybrooke itself. I do not like the
contrivances or whiplash associated with these stories, though. It’s like there’s
no forethought.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What am I talking about?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Example One:</b> Regina’s romance with Robin Hood is so rushed,
we never get a chance to get used to them as a couple. Whether it be during
their year in the Enchanted Forest – or their weeks together in Storybrooke –
we never got to see the emotional attachment of the couple. That’s why Emma and
Hook saving Marian and bringing her back to Storybrooke in the finale meant
absolutely nothing. We can’t grieve with Regina because we never saw her fall
in love. Marian’s return is just a way to make Regina evil again.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZCev5wRyTLHoBr1ERBMLUheyw0W4czPFjVG8NyiSs3IxuAHcPzwuM9pB9a6rwfl_UcJqiU9AHNyrEw2R7OsIkT0UAPkA32DY5sf-Usyouoldk6FvFJp1mwPe5BCKKVDN2iR9AFMoitQwn/s1600/once+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZCev5wRyTLHoBr1ERBMLUheyw0W4czPFjVG8NyiSs3IxuAHcPzwuM9pB9a6rwfl_UcJqiU9AHNyrEw2R7OsIkT0UAPkA32DY5sf-Usyouoldk6FvFJp1mwPe5BCKKVDN2iR9AFMoitQwn/s1600/once+5.jpg" height="167" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Example Two:</b> Hook and Emma’s sudden “love.” I have never
been a fan of over-propped characters – and Hook is a prime example of an
over-propped character. I think the actor is charming and the character has
promise. I still don’t buy this undying love. Hook spent a few days with Emma
and Snow in the Enchanted Forest before they escaped. He then spent about a
half hour with her in Storybrooke when he returned. He then offered his boat to
find Henry – but that trip was filled with Neal’s return (although Hook was
already acting like Emma was his soulmate) and saving Henry. When they got back
to town, the curse hit, and all the fairy tale characters were sent to the
Enchanted forest while Emma and Henry had their memories wiped and lived in New
York for a year. Then Hook shows up, still besotted with her, and she finally
remembers and they spend another week together while all the wicked witch stuff
is going down (and that week included Neal dying and the birth of a baby). That
means these two have spent three weeks together. How are they in love? It’s
ludicrous.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Example Three: </b>Neal’s death. I don’t care whether Neal and
Emma ended up together or not. She’s <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBDWsYIxh5KNuFozPPs5QXYFLTk_wMoF1UXXEjE4m8uVi5ZJKHc9_5OHPXGWvUiRtuIF2MapK7S4Nv6r1VOfL7e-IRXazBfL57r7OnbYdlfHdhL3JE9jllaOw1JJhhlHk55H51018kPCuE/s1600/once+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBDWsYIxh5KNuFozPPs5QXYFLTk_wMoF1UXXEjE4m8uVi5ZJKHc9_5OHPXGWvUiRtuIF2MapK7S4Nv6r1VOfL7e-IRXazBfL57r7OnbYdlfHdhL3JE9jllaOw1JJhhlHk55H51018kPCuE/s1600/once+6.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
had way too many love interests in my
book. If I had to pick one for her – one she had actual chemistry and spent
time with – it would be Graham. Yeah, I said it. I feel nothing when Emma and Hook are on the screen together. I’m talking about Neal,
though. Neal’s death seemed like nothing more than an easy way to clear the
path for Hook (and the two of them could've had a totally awesome bromance). How can Rumplestiltskin’s son – Henry’s father – Emma’s ex be
out of story that quickly? It seriously ticks me off. Neal did not have to be a
part of Emma’s happily ever after. He certainly should’ve been a part of Henry’s,
though.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My worry with <i>Once Upon a Time</i> is that it’s the new <i>Heroes</i>.
What am I talking about? NBC’s <i>Heroes</i> had a tremendous first season, a grand
story arc that left viewers on pins and needles all season to see what would
happen. I’ll tell you what happened, the story flopped. The show never
recovered from that stellar first season and was cancelled prematurely.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi63LLrV04vUNXfYK1jC4Ikqa3K31HW03u48oyl29Fbay_wZdcLDooW_2ESVPyuGl7Zt-aBXqNTly3j8zSenRyWhaJcLgBELRdtqQOlLyjKgk99meICsyLjZf3Z-XOmA3SvWPYl_Oa4YmEO/s1600/once+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi63LLrV04vUNXfYK1jC4Ikqa3K31HW03u48oyl29Fbay_wZdcLDooW_2ESVPyuGl7Zt-aBXqNTly3j8zSenRyWhaJcLgBELRdtqQOlLyjKgk99meICsyLjZf3Z-XOmA3SvWPYl_Oa4YmEO/s1600/once+7.jpg" height="215" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t want that to happen to <i>Once Upon a Time</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The writers need to step up their game, though.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have been close to quitting this show twice. The first was
at the mid-season finale last year, when the new “curse” came down and cast
everything into doubt again. I was sucked back in.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then I was completely bored for the entire spring run. I was
considering giving up again, and then the writers delivered a great season
finale that allowed Emma to see her parents fall in love and finally “get” what
being a fairy tale character is all about.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m still on board this season. The problem is, the upcoming <i>Frozen</i> arc already looks to be another gimmick. I haven’t seen one shot of
footage and yet I’m already cringing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I want this show to be good. It’s one of the few shows I
still watch on network television.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It needs to make some adjustments, though.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
What do you think? Has <i>Once Upon a Time</i> lost the magic?<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-45530510576579053432014-09-04T13:45:00.001-07:002014-09-04T13:45:56.372-07:00GENERAL HOSPITAL: Billy Miller is officially the new Jason Morgan<div class="MsoNormal">
When word broke this week that <i>Young and the Restless</i> alum
Billy Miller was going to be the new Jason Morgan on <i>General Hospital</i>, my first
reaction was: Meh.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That’s not a reaction to Miller, mind you. I think he’s a
fine actor. I really enjoyed his guest stint on <i>Justified</i> – as well as his work
in Genoa City.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTIe3uFm1p4DSbMhO37qWqrByVYaDOSTu22zASuWqCvY1C8h0cvsYU1FxWmX0tQdlprKw1Uyy18f7_eGVcqtEx8TICp4gLeuiNEO-0lBbkCDzcFNsCKTec4T6wk74BgM-eLHbIXgAGU5-A/s1600/jason+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTIe3uFm1p4DSbMhO37qWqrByVYaDOSTu22zASuWqCvY1C8h0cvsYU1FxWmX0tQdlprKw1Uyy18f7_eGVcqtEx8TICp4gLeuiNEO-0lBbkCDzcFNsCKTec4T6wk74BgM-eLHbIXgAGU5-A/s1600/jason+1.jpg" /></a>No, this is a reaction to the return of Jason Morgan.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s no secret that GH’s ratings fell starting in the late
1990s because three characters – Sonny, Carly and Jason – took over the show.
Fans tuned out in droves as those three took over.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The ratings have never recovered.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ron Carlivati has done a lot wrong as head writer of GH (we’ll
get to that in a second), but one of the things he did right was “killing” off
Jason. The show has felt “lighter” since the morose mobster tumbled into the
harbor.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, I’m hopeful that the Jason we get back isn’t Jason
Morgan but, rather, Jason Quartermaine. For those that don’t remember Port
Charles history (and I doubt you would be reading this if you didn’t) Jason
Quartermaine, he of the reindeer Christmas sweaters, was involved in a drunk
driving accident with his brother and was rendered brain damaged.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He had no memory of his previous life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGm2l-m0vLrmVEEQlqmFF5J1Ac1YkMvmrczn44-mjFa-8i9Z3kHsLhZXxbYDnd9XqVUmmb9a9cNPf8MdIcnMlofxmwWrOZfUCAfHVbrVZbtjyoycCxv4NWR8QDasXcOy_JfeGzIG59l-gI/s1600/jason+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGm2l-m0vLrmVEEQlqmFF5J1Ac1YkMvmrczn44-mjFa-8i9Z3kHsLhZXxbYDnd9XqVUmmb9a9cNPf8MdIcnMlofxmwWrOZfUCAfHVbrVZbtjyoycCxv4NWR8QDasXcOy_JfeGzIG59l-gI/s1600/jason+2.jpg" height="320" width="256" /></a>That’s how Jason Morgan – mobster, murderer and thug – was born.
Jason Quartermaine wanted to be a doctor. He was a good person. Jason Morgan
killed people for money and was made out to be a hero.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yeah, it was annoying.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have no idea which Jason is coming back. I doubt it will
be the same Jason we remember, though.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So why don’t I want Jason back?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s all about the economics really.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Billy Miller is a high-profile actor, which means he’s
getting high-profile money. The cast is already so bloated we see our beloved
vets once – or maybe twice – a month. Miller coming in means he’s going to be
getting a lot of money – and a lot of episodes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is on top of Maura West’s Ava – the biggest air hog of
the year (and a high-priced actress) and the newly introduced Nina, played by
Michelle Stafford. Nina is on four days a week – and there’s no way she’s
getting newbie money.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdWK7n_Ie859B8Mk7iUrJaU5R4jYO53K6Otgi0FGyo1zVqmuiB-5wQAgs9jmX3pTzGhnFy-vFtw4bTpf5rWX5PztDfg9W8o10L4ufUGJvVq8mE1ROp8rExKoI2cVtVaDpO-FpywBlJINDi/s1600/jason+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdWK7n_Ie859B8Mk7iUrJaU5R4jYO53K6Otgi0FGyo1zVqmuiB-5wQAgs9jmX3pTzGhnFy-vFtw4bTpf5rWX5PztDfg9W8o10L4ufUGJvVq8mE1ROp8rExKoI2cVtVaDpO-FpywBlJINDi/s1600/jason+3.jpg" height="216" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anthony Geary will be back in the next few weeks (he’s been
recovering from surgery) and then the Fluke story will be front and center.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And yet, my question is: Where is Anna? Shouldn’t she have
been involved when Lulu and Maxie were kidnapped? What is she doing?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Where is Duke? We haven’t seen him in months.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Where are Felicia and Mac? I mean, would Mac really allow
psycho Levi to steal Maxie and then remain behind? Um, no.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GH’s cast is too big. Hard cuts have to be made. And, I don’t
know about anyone else, but I’d rather see a fulltime return for a character we
know and love – like Ned – than the mobster with exactly one facial expression.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Egmqik0gqYBKCQJdceh9YEetjoqQtPHKPKXBirfDlhZWd6zJjBZM1RhSYsDr2xyfzlAJcqfwPAvFtqoR7k1qetzuzatx68oCvAfCL7aWiZjXXS9vmcTEky2jcDxbIeE2knzyAJuHTL-0/s1600/jason+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Egmqik0gqYBKCQJdceh9YEetjoqQtPHKPKXBirfDlhZWd6zJjBZM1RhSYsDr2xyfzlAJcqfwPAvFtqoR7k1qetzuzatx68oCvAfCL7aWiZjXXS9vmcTEky2jcDxbIeE2knzyAJuHTL-0/s1600/jason+4.jpg" height="246" width="320" /></a>If RC wants to add new characters – or bring back old
characters with new faces – fine. He needs to cut the dead weight, though.
Enough is enough.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Watching GH has become a chore. And why? Because there’s no
pace. You can’t get into the swing of a story because you’ll get it for three
days and then not see it for two weeks because there’s so many other stories
going on.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RC needs to be willing to cut his losses. He’s introduced a
few characters that work, namely Julian, Britt, and Nathan.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He’s also introduced a lot of duds. He needs to let Sabrina,
Carlos, Nina and Franco go. They’re not working. They’re never going to work.
It doesn’t matter how much screen time he gives them. They’re already dead.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are other characters – older characters introduced by
other regimes – that are also flat-lining. I’m talking about Olivia and Liz
here (and it pains me to turn on Liz). They’re just superfluous to the action.
I’m not saying to kill them off. Just send them out of town until they fit onto
the canvas again.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I know a lot of people have been clamoring for a Jason
return. For me, though, it’s just another worry. Who’s air time will Billy
Miller be eating?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
What do you think? Are you excited for Jason Morgan to
return?<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-21593037972096525492014-08-23T16:11:00.001-07:002014-08-23T16:21:52.678-07:00New book release update for Grim TidingsI'm about to launch the first book in my new series -- and I want fans to make sure it's something they're genuinely interested in before they buy it. With that in mind, I decided to post the first chapter here.<br />
<br />
It's still snarky. It's still irreverent. It's also a little darker. I hope you enjoy it.<br />
<br />
<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_Toc396579175">One</a><o:p></o:p></h1>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Bow down before the harvester of your doom!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I rolled my eyes, glancing over at my brother, Aidan, as he
stood before the cowering spirit in the corner with a devilish grin on his
face. “Really? That’s how you do it?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Aidan’s dimples deepened as he sent me a wink, while
ignoring the middle-aged man and his pitiful whining as he kept trying to
convince himself that he was dreaming.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s just a nightmare,” the man tried to soothe himself.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Do you have another idea?” Aidan asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Have you tried talking to him?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That never works,” Aidan replied. “They never want to
believe they’re dead. And, if they do, it’s usually <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCMxL-PVenH99WG1tuGr1wV11aJUsKeexfmcBV56WOWWV9UY-moAPc2LKDqoafpGV8mW71bf7VvZvVX8lKTfnSyiVy3dlbb3bbSf-yIdj1xlSVTgl-EUvDqp_ZSbTEwROqiAmVqe4p2SLd/s1600/grim+Kindle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCMxL-PVenH99WG1tuGr1wV11aJUsKeexfmcBV56WOWWV9UY-moAPc2LKDqoafpGV8mW71bf7VvZvVX8lKTfnSyiVy3dlbb3bbSf-yIdj1xlSVTgl-EUvDqp_ZSbTEwROqiAmVqe4p2SLd/s1600/grim+Kindle.jpg" height="640" width="400" /></a></div>
because they’re depressed
and they offed themselves because they were looking forward to the hereafter.”<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I ignored Aidan’s blasé attitude and glanced down at the
list in my hand. “Stan Parker, 54, accountant for Thompson and Hopkins.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“See, he’s evil,” Aidan said. “He’s an accountant for a big
law firm. You can’t get slimier than that.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s an environmental law firm,” I replied.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Aidan merely shrugged in response. He was clearly enjoying
himself, if his flushed skin and gleaming eyes were any indication. I had a
feeling it was because he had been put in charge of my “training,” something I
wasn’t convinced I needed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It says here he’s a Catholic,” I said, reading further into
Stan Parker’s file. “I think I know how to handle this.” I took a step toward
Stan, squatting down so I was at eye level with him. “Mr. Parker, my name is
Aisling Grimlock, and I’m here because there’s been an … incident.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Incident?” Aidan arched a dark eyebrow.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I ignored him. “Unfortunately, there was nothing that could
be done and you’ve … um … passed on.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stan Parker glanced up at me, finally focusing on something
other than his own feet – and the uneven tile pattern in his bedroom – and
fixed me with a bleak stare. “Are you an angel?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’ve obviously never seen her in the morning before she’s
had three cups of coffee,” Aidan scoffed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I waved him off. “I’m not an angel,” I said. “I’m a reaper.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stan Parker looked confused. “Like a grim reaper?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Exactly,” I replied, sending him my most encouraging smile
as I brushed my long black hair – shot through with enough white streaks to
give my father a coronary when he saw them – out of my face. “I’m here to help
you get to your final destination.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t know what that means,” Parker replied, his voice
dull and his eyes lifeless -- OK, no pun intended. “You make it sound like
you’re a travel agent.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Aidan snorted. “Yes, we’re here to take you on a fabulous
vacation to Greece.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I am kind of like a travel agent,” I said, shooting Aidan a
withering glare. “I’ve got all your arrangements right here.” I tapped the file
in my hand for emphasis.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That’s a file on me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It is,” I replied. “It’s all about your life.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s kind of thin.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It sure is,” Aidan agreed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I kept my violet eyes trained on Stan’s face. “It’s not your
whole life,” I said, “just the highlights.”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKAqMH-2CpxwipnujfRtdKGGnJ3HOzcn23d6Ccmt-m70rX_r_Ne-GSUfB2w-dXv2hll8cYpt8-4Ghy4ifNQBJsTEv3RroI2NeZ0oYAFEtut3ltlFs_hgcwTifCLRrmDzosAZgbU8-SS0iS/s1600/grim+tidings+full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKAqMH-2CpxwipnujfRtdKGGnJ3HOzcn23d6Ccmt-m70rX_r_Ne-GSUfB2w-dXv2hll8cYpt8-4Ghy4ifNQBJsTEv3RroI2NeZ0oYAFEtut3ltlFs_hgcwTifCLRrmDzosAZgbU8-SS0iS/s1600/grim+tidings+full.jpg" height="224" width="320" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And lowlights,” Aidan added.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He was starting to grate, which I suppose is a brother’s
job. Since Aidan and I were closer than normal siblings – that whole twin thing
had bonded us a little too closely – our new working relationship was starting
to strain the easygoing thing we’d had going for the twenty-five years since
our birth.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What lowlights?” Stan asked, his lower lip trembling.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t think they’re important,” I lied.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I really like the one about you sleeping with your best
friend’s wife,” Aidan said. “Then, when he confided his problems with the
marriage, you pretended that he was imagining things until he started seeing a
shrink.” He’d moved away from Stan and was busy studying his bedroom, opening
drawers and poking through the contents, something that was making Stan
decidedly nervous.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What are you doing? What is he doing?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ignore him,” I said. “We should really get going, though.
Aidan, bring the scepter over here.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The scepter?” Stan’s eyes widened. “Is that like a magic
stick to beat me with?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Why would you ask that?” Aidan seemed genuinely curious,
until his bright purple eyes narrowed under the weight of sudden knowledge. “Is
that what you’re into?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No! Who told you that? That’s not on the list, is it?” Stan
tried to peer over my hand to see what had been written into his file.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No,” I replied, although now I was curious about what was
buried in his file. I had read only the highlights. “Mr. Parker.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Call me Stan. We should be on a first-name basis, after
all.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Stan,” I said, forcing myself to keep my voice pleasant.
“We really need to get going. We’re kind of on a tight schedule today.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Doing what?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Collecting souls,” I explained, standing back up to my full
five feet, six inches. My knees were beginning to ache from crouching.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And this is your job?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It is now,” I said. “Unfortunately.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Aidan grinned at me. “It’s not as easy as you thought, is
it? It’s a lot harder than you gave us credit for.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I never said it was an easy job,” I argued. “I just didn’t
think it was as action-packed as you made it out to be.” I glanced back down at
Stan. “And I was clearly right.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“They’re usually not this … whiny.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I am not whiny,” Stan said. “I’m going through a shock. I
just found out I’m dead, and it wasn’t even a good death.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What’s a good death?” I asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You know, running into a burning building and saving
children from a fiery death,” Stan said. “Or pushing an old lady out of the
path of a speeding bus. Or riding a supermodel until your heart just gives out.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I glanced at Stan’s paunchy stomach and thinning hair and
couldn’t help but think that all three of those scenarios were very likely outside
of his wheelhouse. “You can’t control your death – unless you want to kill
yourself,” I explained. “And, if you do that, you don’t go to one of the better
final resting places.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stan looked momentarily hopeful. “Am I going to Heaven?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes,” I said, glancing at his file again for confirmation.
I frowned, though, when I saw where he was really going.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That doesn’t look like I’m going to Heaven,” Stan said, his
voice rising an octave. “That looks like I’m going to the other place.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Aidan leaned back on Stan’s bed -- blocking my view of Stan’s
body, which was thankfully buried beneath his plaid bedspread covers -- and waited
for me to handle the situation.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Define the other place,” I said, taking a step so that I
could again make eye contact with Stan.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Define the other place? Define the other place? I don’t
want to go to Hell!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, good news,” I replied, using my best faux tour
director voice. “You’re not going to Hell.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m not?” Relief washed over Stan’s shaking body.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Nope,” I shook my head emphatically. “You’re going to
Purgatory. It’s an entirely different place.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stan looked shocked. “Purgatory? Isn’t that like limbo? Is
that better than Hell? It certainly doesn’t sound as good as Heaven.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He wasn’t wrong. “The good news is, your file says you’ll
only be there for fifty years.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Fifty years!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Your file says you have a few things to work out,” I
offered, hoping that my explanation didn’t sound as lame to Stan as it did to
me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What does that mean exactly?” Stan pushed himself to his
ethereal feet and placed his hands on his hips. I think I was getting a glimpse
of his courtroom persona, which was one of the reasons he was going to
Purgatory.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well … ,” I hedged.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I want to know exactly what that file says about me,” Stan
ordered.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m not sure I’m supposed to tell you that.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Aidan groaned from his spot on the bed. “Oh, just tell him.
Otherwise we’re going to be here forever, and I’m ready for lunch.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I didn’t know how he could think about lunch with a dead
body – and the traumatized spirit that belonged to that body – in the room.
“Well, under your transgressions list you have quite a few entries.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Such as?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, it says here you put fifteen witnesses on the stand
even though you knew they were going to perjure themselves,” I replied.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stan looked incensed. “I did no such thing!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Then there’s that whole sleeping with your best friend’s
wife.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I went to confession for that!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Each time?” Aidan asked. “You have to go each time.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stan worried his lower lip with his teeth. “That wasn’t made
clear to me. That’s not fair. I thought going once was a blanket confession
that would absolve me of all of my sins.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Did you do the required penance?” Aidan pressed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Of course I did.” Stan was scandalized.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That’s not what the file says. The file says you were
supposed to say fifty Hail Marys, but that you didn’t say any of them.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The priest still absolved me of my sins,” Stan argued. “You
can’t possibly be telling me that fifty Hail Marys are standing between me and
Heaven. I’ll do them right now, if that’s the case.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It doesn’t work that way,” I said.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It also doesn’t count if you don’t do the penance,” Aidan
shot back. “While you’re still alive, that is. Aisling, seriously, enough with
this crap. Let’s just absorb him and go.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I want to speak to your superior,” Stan said. “You can’t be
the last word on where my fate lies.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“We’re not even the first word,” I answered. “We’re just
grunts. The list comes from higher up and we just follow it. We’re really just
the last word.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Higher up where?” Stan didn’t look convinced.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That was too long of a conversation for this particular
moment. “Just higher up.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, I still want to speak to your superior.” Stan was
adamant.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“We can arrange that,” Aidan said, getting to his feet. “You
have to come with us, though, and then we’ll have to make an appointment for
you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And how soon can I get this appointment?” Stan asked, new
hope flitting across his face.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I think the current wait time is seventy-five years,” Aidan
said. I had no idea whether he was telling the truth.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, that’s not fair,” Stan complained. “I demand an
immediate appeal.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I glanced at Aidan, waiting for his response. His world-class
charm obviously wasn’t working today.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“We can arrange that.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And how soon will my argument be heard?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I think the current time frame is eighty-five years,” Aidan
replied. He was clearly bored with the direction of the conversation, his mind
already focused on the hamburger in his future.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stan’s mouth dropped open in horror. “So, you’re saying my
only options are to go with you, climbing into some weird scepter of death and
spending fifty years in Purgatory making up for my crimes or wait seventy-five
years to plead my case?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Pretty much,” Aidan said, nonplussed, “although, you don’t
climb into the scepter.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That’s something, I guess,” Stan said, shuffling
uncomfortably.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The scepter just absorbs your soul,” Aidan added.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Terror flitted across Stan’s bland features. “Absorbs?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s not as gross as it sounds,” I offered.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh, okay,” Stan said. “Um, just give me a second to get
ready. It’s going to be fine. I’ll wake up in a few minutes and everything will
be fine.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Of course.” Clearly my approach was getting us nowhere.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stan started pacing his apartment, stopping at each photo
frame to give it a long gaze. I thought it was kind of sweet. He wanted to get
a last look at his loved ones. Maybe he wasn’t such a bad guy after all?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stan was completing his circuit, moving back toward the open
bedroom door when he suddenly disappeared into the living room. I glanced at
Aidan worriedly. “What do you think he’s doing?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He’s probably running,” Aidan replied, his disinterest
evident.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Shouldn’t we stop him?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He’s your charge,” Aidan reminded me. “I’m just here to
supervise.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“This sucks,” I grumbled, moving into the living room to
make sure Stan didn’t try to run. I shouldn’t have worried. He was standing at
the door of his apartment, trying to turn the door handle so he could escape
into the hallway. He clearly didn’t realize that he could simply walk through
the door because he was stymied by the fact that his hand just kept moving
through the handle harmlessly. That was a small favor.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I opened my mouth in an attempt to talk him down once more, but
Aidan shook his head to dissuade me. He was right – and I knew it. I sighed,
pulling the sterling silver scepter – shaped like a snake with ruby red eyes
(don’t ask) – out of my jacket pocket and pointed it at Stan.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The scepter lit up, emitting a bright flash of light, and I
could see Stan’s spirit start to break up as it filtered into the scepter. The
last look he managed to muster was one of abject terror before he completely
disappeared.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, that went well,” I said finally.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That’s not what Dad is going to say,” Aidan replied.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He was right. I scowled as I imagined the diatribe I was
sure to be on the receiving end of later tonight. It sucks when your Dad is
also your boss.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You want lunch?” Aidan asked. He didn’t look too worried
about the ass-chewing we were sure to get in a few hours.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Make sure it’s some place we can get drinks, too.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“We’re Irish,” Aidan laughed. “That’s a given.”<o:p></o:p></div>
I followed him out of Stan Parker’s apartment without a
backward glance. This was turning into a terrible first day of work.<br />
<br />
If you're interested in purchasing Grim Tidings, you can do so <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Grim-Tidings-Aisling-Grimlock-Book-ebook/dp/B00MZHKTZM/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1408836028&sr=8-14&keywords=Amanda+M.+Lee">here</a>. Thanks for reading.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-90739689454385498312014-08-22T15:23:00.001-07:002014-08-22T15:23:39.655-07:00TELEVISION: True Blood ends Sunday -- and I'm glad<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>True Blood</i> comes to an end on Sunday and I can’t help but
feel … relieved.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQCM_xSqoahXIJCAm7lV3N01VqpHMvRYZ3QCt0Luox5T_Rdt-MEtoO1dcJiDlMNnCD6dZ6mU6jxH84bTeJuU4uJ2BwV-YNkmbotLBpWePQ7qcZnzU-qP0-FVtI4qY9WxEICQ7H9fpCsRE1/s1600/true+blood+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQCM_xSqoahXIJCAm7lV3N01VqpHMvRYZ3QCt0Luox5T_Rdt-MEtoO1dcJiDlMNnCD6dZ6mU6jxH84bTeJuU4uJ2BwV-YNkmbotLBpWePQ7qcZnzU-qP0-FVtI4qY9WxEICQ7H9fpCsRE1/s1600/true+blood+1.jpg" height="198" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The show, which started as a dark and dirty guilty pleasure
seven seasons ago, is not exactly going out on top of its game.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let’s face it, when <i>True Blood</i> landed and took the country
by storm, it was a wild ride full of sex and blood. There were colorful sets, multifaceted characters and outrageous situations. What we’re
dealing with now isn’t even a shadow of the show’s formal greatness.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had to laugh at Sunday’s preview for the finale: Will it
end with true love or the true death?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I would love for it to end with true death – for Bill and
Sookie. I cannot take one more second of Bill’s maudlin flashbooks, his moody
stare or his martyr complex so he can sacrifice himself so he won’t saddle
Sookie with Rosebilly’s baby.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVw29kDP37iXzUjmj7X3mWqCHyAqnXw8kLyOBMawzolm2XL6lfKZw0MbRAUYfpOQau6paB6gwkhBnsA3hT8L_4sdCuvlWHvH_P0c7v_NDlpBd5iRfFJmKohVzV32cFslGQVhl0LJgIA4NF/s1600/true+blood+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVw29kDP37iXzUjmj7X3mWqCHyAqnXw8kLyOBMawzolm2XL6lfKZw0MbRAUYfpOQau6paB6gwkhBnsA3hT8L_4sdCuvlWHvH_P0c7v_NDlpBd5iRfFJmKohVzV32cFslGQVhl0LJgIA4NF/s1600/true+blood+2.jpg" height="168" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As bad as Bill is, though, Sookie is worse. She mourned Tara
for 15 seconds. She spent months with Alcide, watched him die trying to protect
her, and then hopped in the sack with veiny Bill in less than a week. Where is
her rooting value?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have no doubt that Bill and Sookie will get their “happily
ever after.” It makes me want to gag, but the writing is on the wall.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And, before I hear from aggressive Eric fans, he doesn’t
belong with Sookie either. She’s like an albatross around the neck of every man
she’s been paired with on the show. Eric does not want to settle down. He doesn’t
want to be domestic. He might want to “win” – but the life Sookie wants is not
the life that Eric wants. So, no, they don’t belong together either.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioOYlb6dMRrrYIWvA-z55acsMOHMjxrl1cx9sREi2m0FF0QGXlWdBkbpQ5XXwSHHc4OkYRP7wMU9lb1wfSZILXgjG_U33E4lWIJ2yxKF16QH4_jtxaIA0G-uqFJk_YAi6qklt1KyoWzpA7/s1600/true+blood+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioOYlb6dMRrrYIWvA-z55acsMOHMjxrl1cx9sREi2m0FF0QGXlWdBkbpQ5XXwSHHc4OkYRP7wMU9lb1wfSZILXgjG_U33E4lWIJ2yxKF16QH4_jtxaIA0G-uqFJk_YAi6qklt1KyoWzpA7/s1600/true+blood+3.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quite frankly, when it comes down to it, I’m not watching
Sunday’s finale to find out how Sookie and Bill get their happy ending. All I
care about right now is Jason, Jessica, Lafayette and Hoyt.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The writers did a huge disservice to the bulk of the
secondary characters this season, but what they did to Tara was downright
criminal. The original character met a bloody death – off screen – and then
served as her mother’s V-fueled hallucination for a few episodes, finally
digging an old gun out of the dirt and leaving. Nice.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of course, poor Sam’s story wasn’t much better. After giving
up his bar to be mayor (what qualifies him for that position again?), his
pregnant girlfriend (who he fell in love with in five minutes -- a five minutes where he should have been mourning the death of the girlfriend before her-- last season) was
kidnapped by rabid vamps. After saving her, she gave him an ultimatum and left town.
Then, in a flashback sequence while reading a letter (completely disrespectful
for an original character, by the way) Sam just took off and left town in the penultimate episode.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuHKA8NlJQGqosP9n7CBL0ObAQda5RpbZ4hp4OYxmNfBuChORtkK5wH4Fso-YHRilWxNR2O5PBko_lit8mHTWqNxWaVN6k81mYdu7SuNkdKCqZiJA3OMJHftgdFwwJne2C-_9eLgYZA71w/s1600/true+blood+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuHKA8NlJQGqosP9n7CBL0ObAQda5RpbZ4hp4OYxmNfBuChORtkK5wH4Fso-YHRilWxNR2O5PBko_lit8mHTWqNxWaVN6k81mYdu7SuNkdKCqZiJA3OMJHftgdFwwJne2C-_9eLgYZA71w/s1600/true+blood+4.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
Another slap in the face to fans.<div>
<br /><div class="MsoNormal">
Lafayette turned a straight vampire gay and then helped Tara’s
mom dig in the dirt.</div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eric and Pam got some cool scenes – especially Pam’s Russian
Roulette round Eric’s assault on Sarah Newlin. However their flashback sequences were just as boring as Bill's -- and Pam's nonreaction to Tara's death felt a little insulting.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The only characters that got any decent story were Jason,
Jessica and Hoyt.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-FtgpmyZHbT5_l6u68WAcZZNBnkM34z-vlspH9-OxZu6QPr1wDwW_zSPWVaYCw5gzt_R1ey9Cviop2e4vX7scGg4sCOnIpG8t14TTZHyYTHWsaTA9EVuQohyphenhyphenHrm0_ItxJwwuqHalF9Qo/s1600/true+blood+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-FtgpmyZHbT5_l6u68WAcZZNBnkM34z-vlspH9-OxZu6QPr1wDwW_zSPWVaYCw5gzt_R1ey9Cviop2e4vX7scGg4sCOnIpG8t14TTZHyYTHWsaTA9EVuQohyphenhyphenHrm0_ItxJwwuqHalF9Qo/s1600/true+blood+5.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jason has been a favorite of mine since the first season
(Tara finding him in the freezer with a steak on his junk and his subsequent
trip to the hospital was hilarious). As a fan of the books, Jason was always
one of my least favorite characters. On the show, though, Jason was often the
only reason to watch. He was an idiot – but he somehow managed to get things
done and help despite the fact that he’s an idiot.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I wasn’t so sure about Jessica’s story at the beginning of
the season. I saw no chemistry between her and James and watching her guilt
over killing Andy’s fairy kids manifest as obsession was painful. Unlike a lot
of other people, I never wanted Jason and Jessica to settle down. Jason strikes
me as the type of guy that’s going to have kids – and he’ll probably be a good
father – and Jessica can’t give him kids.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jessica also wants a guy who’s going to be loyal to her, and
Jason just isn’t capable of it. He’s loyal in his <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3n3yn62fxoBOs0OzytAe2c9p6gaoZFTxZy-UFaRFZ4efQuYCEmSBH4glU-cOPRrpyfs26k0uPRYyWPOVPFlHKZ_peGuvpewbgFp2MMH98skPL0kGrIMpurbD1QhwV_S8TYdZuLPWZbuup/s1600/true+blood+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3n3yn62fxoBOs0OzytAe2c9p6gaoZFTxZy-UFaRFZ4efQuYCEmSBH4glU-cOPRrpyfs26k0uPRYyWPOVPFlHKZ_peGuvpewbgFp2MMH98skPL0kGrIMpurbD1QhwV_S8TYdZuLPWZbuup/s1600/true+blood+6.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
own way, but he can’t commit
to one woman. It’s just not who he is.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was actually crushed when they sent Hoyt away. His romance with Jessica – especially in the second season – was so heart-warming
and sweet I couldn’t help but love them. I honestly thought that Jessica and
Hoyt were done for good after what happened – but the way the writers brought
Hoyt back (and had him dispatch Violet) was some of their best writing all
season. I can only hope Hoyt and Jason find a way to be friends again in the
finale.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have no idea if there is going to be a big death in the
finale. <i>True Blood</i> always liked to be controversial – so maybe the writers will
really kill Bill. I honestly don’t think so, though. The writers made Sookie
and Bill the central love story – and they’re the couple who will be the
centerpiece of the finale.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Looking back on <i>True Blood</i>, I can’t help but be thankful for
the earlier seasons as I try to forget the horrible writing from the latter
seasons. Even with all that disappointment, though, I can’t hate a show that
gave me eye candy like Alcide, Jason and Eric – even if the writing ruined the show’s
overall legacy at the end.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
What do you think? Will you miss True Blood?<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-33620452583177477662014-08-12T16:17:00.001-07:002014-08-12T16:18:02.270-07:00When does your favorite television show return this fall?<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDsVs8J4Nx1tDWnqSOpRia_3GMf2EQR-uYOJ67n-aSccOaNBbHsSj0un4zeCmS2IInX50VgGZm0yj7Jd0mN8EL-Z2_DCDx2XHkW3g1549TkrRsTzz0y9LBZEw-ITGNRts7zfQ1_nlCanyk/s1600/walking+dead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDsVs8J4Nx1tDWnqSOpRia_3GMf2EQR-uYOJ67n-aSccOaNBbHsSj0un4zeCmS2IInX50VgGZm0yj7Jd0mN8EL-Z2_DCDx2XHkW3g1549TkrRsTzz0y9LBZEw-ITGNRts7zfQ1_nlCanyk/s1600/walking+dead.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a>It’s that time of year again, and the new television season
is quickly approaching.</div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, when does your favorite show return this fall?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 3</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The League, 10 p.m., FXX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 7</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sunday Night Football, 8 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Utopia, 8 p.m., FOX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Boardwalk Empire, 9 p.m., HBO<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 9</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sons of Anarchy, 10 p.m., FOX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 10</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hell’s Kitchen, 8 p.m., FOX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 11</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Biggest Loser, 8 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thursday Night Football, 8 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 15</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dancing With the Stars, 8 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 16</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
New Girl, 9 p.m., FOX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Mindy Project, 9:30 p.m., FOX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 17</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Red Band Society, 9 p.m., FOX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
10 p.m., The Mysteries of Laura, NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 21</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
60 Minutes, 7 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Madam Secretary, 8 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Good Wife, 9 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 22</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Big Bang Theory, 8 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gotham, 8 p.m., FOX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Voice, 8 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Scorpion, 9 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sleepy Hollow, 9 p.m., FOX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Blacklist, 10 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Forever, 10 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 23</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
NCIS, 8 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Voice (Results), 8 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., 9 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
NCIS: New Orleans, 9 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Awkward, 10 p.m., MTV<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chicago Fire, 10 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Person of Interest, 10 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Faking It, 10:30 p.m., MTV<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 24</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Middle, 8 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Survivor, 8 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Goldbergs, 8:30 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Law & Order: SVU, 9 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Modern Family, 9 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Black-ish, 9:30 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chicago P.D., 10 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nashville, 10 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 25</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bones, 8 p.m., FOX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Grey’s Anatomy, 8 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Scandal, 9 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
How to Get Away With Murder, 10 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Parenthood, 10:30 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 26</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Amazing Race, 8 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dateline NBC, 8 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Shark Tank, 9 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hawaii Five-0, 9 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
20/20, 10 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Blue Bloods, 10 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 27</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
48 Hours, 10 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 28</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once Upon a Time, 8 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Simpsons, 8 p.m., FOX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Brooklyn Nine-Nine, 8:30 p.m., FOX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Family Guy, 9 p.m., FOX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Resurrection, 9 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CSI, 10 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Revenge, 10 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 29</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mom, 8:30 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Castle, 10 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
NCIS: Los Angeles, 10 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sept. 30</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Selfie, 8 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Manhattan Love Story, 8:30 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happyland, 11 p.m., MTV<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Oct. 1</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Criminal Minds, 9 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stalker, 10 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Oct. 2</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Vampire Diaries, 8 p.m., CW<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bad Judge, 9 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gracepoint, 9 p.m., FOX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Reign, 9 p.m., CW<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A to Z, 9:30 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Oct. 3</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Last Man Standing, 8 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Oct. 5</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
America’s Funniest Home Videos, 7 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bob’s Burgers, 7:30 p.m., FOX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Homeland, 9 p.m., Showtime<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mulaney, 9:30 p.m., FOX<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Oct. 6</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Originals, 8 p.m., CW<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Oct. 7</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Flash, 8 p.m., CW<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Supernatural, 9 p.m., CW<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Oct. 8</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Arrow, 8 p.m., CW<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kingdom, 9 p.m.,
DirecTV<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Oct. 10</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cristela, 8:30 p.m., ABC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Oct. 12</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Walking Dead, 9 p.m., AMC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Affair, 10 p.m., Showtime<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Oct. 13</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jane The Virgin, 9 p.m., CW<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Oct. 14</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Marry Me, 9 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
About a Boy, 9:30 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Oct. 22</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The 100, 9 p.m., CW<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Oct. 24</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Grimm, 9 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Constantine, 10 p.m., NBC<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Oct. 27</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 Broke Girls, 8 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Oct. 30</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Millers, 8:30 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Two and a Half Men, 9 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The McCarthys, 9:30 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elementary, 10 p.m., CBS<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-76743517994335200732014-08-05T14:42:00.003-07:002014-08-05T14:42:40.547-07:00Get out of the water! Shark Week starts Sunday<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the happiest weeks of the year is upon us as
Discovery Channel kicks off the 27<sup>th</sup> annual <i>Shark Week</i> extravaganza
on Sunday.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I love sharks – and shark movies. I love the good ones
(<i>Jaws</i>), the bad ones (<i>Bait</i>) and the completely outrageous ones (<i>Shark Night</i>). I have shark slippers, jewelry and T-shirts.
So, of course, <i>Shark Week</i> is a big deal for me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHQIbldynEYEPWwUCteorqryimx6D5F-O0i9SwNXcTMQ-v_Ovnvhl10FbEh1U59Vb9c4fPjz5xs6u_GFubeDEf9nat0Iw7RBvACF0CLDwTbrbpfc8TQ76k065iqyhWUyETOwRqURQoq5C0/s1600/shark+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHQIbldynEYEPWwUCteorqryimx6D5F-O0i9SwNXcTMQ-v_Ovnvhl10FbEh1U59Vb9c4fPjz5xs6u_GFubeDEf9nat0Iw7RBvACF0CLDwTbrbpfc8TQ76k065iqyhWUyETOwRqURQoq5C0/s1600/shark+1.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a>This year’s schedule is full of new offerings at night – and
repeats of older shows during the day. And, for the second year in a row,
Discovery is hosting the live <i>Shark After Dark</i> program – which brings guests
together with comedian Josh Wolf – to talk about each night’s entertainment
roundup.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Last year, millions of fans joined in and live Tweeted <i>Shark
After Dark</i> – which airs at 11 p.m. nightly -- making the show a runaway success.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After the scathing dress down the Discovery Channel got for
airing a mockumentary about the existence of the extinct Megalodon last year
(only running a brief disclaimer at the beginning of the show and then
presenting the mockumentary as fact), it doesn’t look like producers are
backing off their approach (which saw millions of viewers) because a follow-up
is scheduled.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Discovery Channel wisely bumped the follow-up off the
opening night, though, and buried it later in the week, though.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So what is Discovery offering this year?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Sunday</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Air Jaws: Fin of Fury (8 p.m.)</b>: Using incredible new cameras
and high tech underwater gadgetry, Shark <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFoS7NdxDByRMdm8QX7uUa3dkTwZVquZ6Jvn5_rURD-GGKiUOji3HnG4qOOEUTvptZjmwga1c21ED-ujyXPBnqwhZMLlNonxMWBtUhJhsTwnrZVzfKGm_71y_cE1SrGXCjPj9YShaTaCz1/s1600/shark+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFoS7NdxDByRMdm8QX7uUa3dkTwZVquZ6Jvn5_rURD-GGKiUOji3HnG4qOOEUTvptZjmwga1c21ED-ujyXPBnqwhZMLlNonxMWBtUhJhsTwnrZVzfKGm_71y_cE1SrGXCjPj9YShaTaCz1/s1600/shark+2.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
Filmmaker Jeff Kurr and his team
embark on a worldwide mission to track down the missing “mega-shark” Colossus.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Shark of Darkness: Wrath of Submarine (9 p.m.):</b> Said to be the
deadliest great white shark of all time, “Submarine” is a 30-foot great white
that has terrorized the shores of South Africa for decades. Locals believe that
this shark is responsible for countless fatal attacks, but its existence has
never been proven.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Monday</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRJLVVXMsOKBISl_GfjWDy1eytS91hsMA91EJxSK8ubuFHDmVath7QLytw7WNt4vEF54pB9nhFW_5Gw01bwl0vd8qCUBhn5st5QLcavZfnq5exfQcDKfS3lKT5NXmbr_9pdkZr9ePF9t0/s1600/shark+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRJLVVXMsOKBISl_GfjWDy1eytS91hsMA91EJxSK8ubuFHDmVath7QLytw7WNt4vEF54pB9nhFW_5Gw01bwl0vd8qCUBhn5st5QLcavZfnq5exfQcDKfS3lKT5NXmbr_9pdkZr9ePF9t0/s1600/shark+3.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a><b>Jaws Strikes Back (9 p.m.):</b> Marine biologist Greg Skomal and
the sharkcam team travel to the remote Pacific Island of Guadalupe to film the
hunting behavior of the largest great white sharks on Earth.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Monster Hammerhead (10 p.m.):</b> For the past 60 years, reports
of a monster hammerhead clocking in at more than 20 feet long have circulated
throughout Florida. Now a team of scientists and anglers explore the waters of
the world’s largest hammerheads to see if these stories could be true.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Tuesday</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIaCBtJS6RA6BdVA_5g5nYmkD06ihPg_hzJ-ttPanc2tO7UUaEfFFz6T0uMx7vFZNxiHRrnPsCXFlvKXBcQdVfupwyUeKE6JJUQManBeGNbbeoaZcURSaLxGB7cTMjerd3onF0_ADHkZ5s/s1600/shark+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIaCBtJS6RA6BdVA_5g5nYmkD06ihPg_hzJ-ttPanc2tO7UUaEfFFz6T0uMx7vFZNxiHRrnPsCXFlvKXBcQdVfupwyUeKE6JJUQManBeGNbbeoaZcURSaLxGB7cTMjerd3onF0_ADHkZ5s/s1600/shark+4.jpg" /></a><b>Alien Sharks: Return to the Abyss (9 p.m.):</b> Shark
researchers investigate the ocean’s darkest depths in <o:p></o:p></div>
search of shark specials
that have never been seen before on camera and get a glimpse of the elusive
ghost shark.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Lair of the Mega Shark (10 p.m.):</b> Shark experts Jeff Kurr
and Andy Casagrande head to New Zealand to investigate the sightings of a
20-foot great white shark, which leads them to the nocturnal feeding ground of
a “mega-shark.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Wednesday</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqftCZ8ia5oZvvrvSeKr8ckXZRNRsh6vEYc5lC-2R9u8qqi7McQ9MdqL6RpVbvPLP112PJZdPr9mFr9aSbiG_HxuIzCtE6yqIQSgqmilrM57MvA28WFxuTzgLOPiJb2QyI8Xvlq568fFd0/s1600/shark+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqftCZ8ia5oZvvrvSeKr8ckXZRNRsh6vEYc5lC-2R9u8qqi7McQ9MdqL6RpVbvPLP112PJZdPr9mFr9aSbiG_HxuIzCtE6yqIQSgqmilrM57MvA28WFxuTzgLOPiJb2QyI8Xvlq568fFd0/s1600/shark+5.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a><b>Zombie Sharks (9 p.m.):</b> Shark Diver and conservationist Eli
Martinez explores a catatonic zombie-like state in sharks called “tonic
immobility” and sets out to solve a mystery of predators using it on massive
great whites.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Spawn of Jaws: The Birth (10 p.m.):</b> Dr. Michael Domeier
continues his quest to unlock one of the greatest shark mysteries: the location
of great white pupping grounds. This two-year mission follows the journey of a
pregnant great white called Gil Rakers as she prepares to give birth.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Thursday</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiH4Vxd9z1M5UhmtkFT-FPw1d8o2LD1uUcuHwiVKdpPBtQtcmdQFv4vuDm1dZ1Y_M5G18w4vgoST1ZjFTF1aUtyAXAdczdw3kd41O7ZT3FHp-SOnsUo8QDZ-HLxxctgCRPSmeGLXJGrNIR/s1600/shark+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiH4Vxd9z1M5UhmtkFT-FPw1d8o2LD1uUcuHwiVKdpPBtQtcmdQFv4vuDm1dZ1Y_M5G18w4vgoST1ZjFTF1aUtyAXAdczdw3kd41O7ZT3FHp-SOnsUo8QDZ-HLxxctgCRPSmeGLXJGrNIR/s1600/shark+6.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a><b>I Escaped Jaws 2 (9 p.m.):</b> Shark attack victims recount
their harrowing near-death experiences and reveal how they escaped with their
lives.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sharkageddon (10 p.m.):</b> Massive tiger sharks and other
predatory species are invading the shores of Hawaii. After a spike in attacks,
including two fatalities, Hawaiian native and surf-legend Kala Alexander sets
out to uncover the truth behind what’s disrupting the Hawaiian food chain.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Friday</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Megalodon: The New Evidence (10 p.m.):</b> Collin Drake returns
to share new details of his case and present the shocking new evidence of the
existence of Megalodon, an enormous prehistoric shark that could still be
roaming the oceans.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Saturday</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0rukk_9yNHw8TlQkASqoeFfv0pOABfTA05Fr3hwGuZhbYKB8HixauXejwGXMDpsidJNNSIN0OJWhKud_FrOOw_UHFzWa8S0JiO0IUkNeHMtaShUtAQWsWTO5A7DcuG2k_SR3ayY3h846F/s1600/shark+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0rukk_9yNHw8TlQkASqoeFfv0pOABfTA05Fr3hwGuZhbYKB8HixauXejwGXMDpsidJNNSIN0OJWhKud_FrOOw_UHFzWa8S0JiO0IUkNeHMtaShUtAQWsWTO5A7DcuG2k_SR3ayY3h846F/s1600/shark+7.jpg" height="198" width="320" /></a><b>Great White Matrix (9 p.m.):</b> Shark attack survivor Paul de
Gelder and Andy Casagrande head deep into the shark-infested waters of
Australia to investigate a series of bizarre shark attacks and capture the
great white bite on camera.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sharksanity (10 p.m.): </b>A look at the most insane bites,
strikes and close calls from Shark Week 2014. Plus your picks for the five
crazies Shark Week moments ever.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, what do you think? Are you looking forward to Shark
Week?<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-558608844849587372014-07-25T13:53:00.002-07:002014-07-25T13:53:26.114-07:00New Avery Shaw title hits shelvesFor those that follow my books, the fifth Avery Shaw mystery -- The Preditorial Page -- has officially hit stands.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTyt_i_Qid7RY-bvEbwLUbC6cIbxR_QMjh-B3qXmdkGnCFScHJ1nWrlXY5GUFEWAGTDmLMWfJvCeMgsM9vyNIHLC64jykupy5gyxwedmTDin_ePg-gpheAWayxOk4tP7DFMfsqu3ZxJBTm/s1600/PreditorialKindleCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTyt_i_Qid7RY-bvEbwLUbC6cIbxR_QMjh-B3qXmdkGnCFScHJ1nWrlXY5GUFEWAGTDmLMWfJvCeMgsM9vyNIHLC64jykupy5gyxwedmTDin_ePg-gpheAWayxOk4tP7DFMfsqu3ZxJBTm/s1600/PreditorialKindleCover.jpg" height="400" width="250" /></a>Here is the blurb: <i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Is speed-dating okay when you're in a relationship? It is when you're looking for a killer, especially in Avery Shaw's world.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></i><br />
<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">A naked body has been discovered in the nearby Clinton River, and while Sheriff Jake Farrell is keeping his cards close to his vest, Avery has another avenue of information: Eliot. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It doesn't hurt that the medial examiner seems to have a crush on her -- and verbal diarrhea -- and she keeps stumbling on information that propels her ahead of the pack. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Unfortunately for Avery, when she discovers information that no one else has -- and she finds herself on top of the media game -- she has to make a decision, and that decision is going to tick off everyone she knows. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Between Jake's anger, Eliot's worry, and Grandpa's insistence that you can't force a handicap parking space on a business owner, Avery has her hands full. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Lexie has a new place to live, Carly is adjusting to married life and Avery is trying to convince the men in her life that she's not in danger, despite all evidence to the contrary. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It's a busy week -- kind of. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">In actuality, it's just a normal week for this hard-headed reporter, until someone's eye focuses on Avery and she finds herself in real danger. Again. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Jake is angry and Eliot is torn, but Avery has an idea on how to solve the case. The only problem is, when all is said and done, someone is going to be shot ... and Avery is going to regret every move she's made on this case when it happens. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Will someone survive to see another Avery Shaw catastrophe?</span></i><div>
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">For those interested, the book is available for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Preditorial-Page-Avery-Shaw-Mystery-ebook/dp/B00M1BJBF6/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1406321475&sr=8-5&keywords=Amanda+M.+Lee" target="_blank">$3.99</a> as an ebook and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Preditorial-Page-Mystery-Volume/dp/1500118184/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1406321475&sr=8-5" target="_blank">$13.29</a> as a paperback.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">As always, thanks for reading.</span><br />
<br /></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-48244422456832432212014-07-10T13:43:00.002-07:002014-07-10T13:43:34.134-07:00GENERAL HOSPITAL: How Rafe became another plot point<div class="MsoNormal">
So <i>General Hospital</i> writer Ron Carlivati took in all the fan
complaints over the past few months and fixed them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He listened as fans complained about newbies taking over the
show.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI5P4s6fF0NNYhJG2H6RNp_e6Z-Ge8RK9ss6rE-XCfUVuBf9CqiJwQpari_FyQzX66Wa9Qss6caHPQJH6IAkWH6-qAnCqfFvg3ZzI_LxAW2hq2qMTbKjnOAnxWFDadGkYdKBZ6Ue-zjSip/s1600/general+hospital.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI5P4s6fF0NNYhJG2H6RNp_e6Z-Ge8RK9ss6rE-XCfUVuBf9CqiJwQpari_FyQzX66Wa9Qss6caHPQJH6IAkWH6-qAnCqfFvg3ZzI_LxAW2hq2qMTbKjnOAnxWFDadGkYdKBZ6Ue-zjSip/s1600/general+hospital.png" height="201" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He listened as fans complained about killing off another
child.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He listened as fans complained about plot-driven writing
when they really wanted character-driven writing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And he fixed it. No, he did.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
How did he fix it?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He took the legacy character of Rafe (he’s a Barrington – he
is a legacy character), made him a drug addict and then had him work for Fluke
to run Patrick off the road and ultimately kill Gabriel. Then they had him try
to run a police barricade – somehow fly out of the car (are there no airbags in
Port Charles?) and die from a blow to the back of the head, even though he flew
face first out of the car.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It makes perfect sense.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTMwQ15ilQzN8aVHWwJweS7cCyzKlDBmYXpodgFpbFYNpihvxqVwtk2hF76uV-svHZyb6yf9s85GoLC6k310sHtCqiEISuASNaV7nOV-x13u3t5iaSD958kLl8KIlKSM6MCZl86uDOlzJA/s1600/general+hospital+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTMwQ15ilQzN8aVHWwJweS7cCyzKlDBmYXpodgFpbFYNpihvxqVwtk2hF76uV-svHZyb6yf9s85GoLC6k310sHtCqiEISuASNaV7nOV-x13u3t5iaSD958kLl8KIlKSM6MCZl86uDOlzJA/s1600/general+hospital+2.jpg" height="237" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Oh, wait. What the heck is going on here?</div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is the exact opposite of fixing things.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
First off, if there was nothing for Rafe to do – and that
was apparent – send the kid off to boarding school. Instead, we’re supposed to
believe that Rafe got into drugs and let Fluke order him to knowingly run
Patrick’s car off the road.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In what world?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rafe may not have been a perfect kid, but he certainly wasn’t
a purposeful murderer. He risked his life for Sam and Danny numerous times –
and that was before he even knew them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So Rafe was suddenly a drug-addicted thug – even though we
hadn’t seen him on screen for months – and he’s perfectly fine with running
Patrick off the road with a pregnant woman and a small child in the car.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsg6WPPK6MKNSOXA1iTCL9xvGYLy-y_Err0w9TlI32KrGx29_sHfP-x3icUqprNIZfHLllo5ZajqM9wfpaUCtOhn_caeTw90ltIiJmzpaxQdo2jKhwQy54UY8Lac5ej6Xhp8Ec6NDBNHxp/s1600/general+hospital+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsg6WPPK6MKNSOXA1iTCL9xvGYLy-y_Err0w9TlI32KrGx29_sHfP-x3icUqprNIZfHLllo5ZajqM9wfpaUCtOhn_caeTw90ltIiJmzpaxQdo2jKhwQy54UY8Lac5ej6Xhp8Ec6NDBNHxp/s1600/general+hospital+3.jpg" height="217" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The sad thing is, Rafe’s drug addiction could have been a
decent story. As fans remember, Patrick spiraled down into drug addiction
himself after Robin “died.” How great would a story of Patrick hating Rafe and
then helping the kid go through rehab and come to terms with what he accidentally
did (instead of turning Rafe into a hitman) been? It certainly would have been
a superior story to what we got.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After directing his anger at the perpetrator who killed his
son for all of five minutes – seriously, Sam and Patrick solved that case in an
hour, so why couldn’t the PCPD – they blamed Silas, blamed Kiki and then
figured out it was Rafe over the course of one conversation.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There was no flow. There was no buildup.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then Molly jumped in the car with Rafe and they fled from
the police – and tried to run a road block. That <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhilh4KIkRprGXeLBxLHtMDA37lBPfAIxPw3JiTovt_pwdyawd9tvqXxN1afX7j39YbnBNOb3zzeCygrc9PPSBo45AVhXM2Qp6sL3gpULEjM0UhOw4KrFMJuPCYc-L9HoxiXwVl1KdlHSPk/s1600/general+hospital+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhilh4KIkRprGXeLBxLHtMDA37lBPfAIxPw3JiTovt_pwdyawd9tvqXxN1afX7j39YbnBNOb3zzeCygrc9PPSBo45AVhXM2Qp6sL3gpULEjM0UhOw4KrFMJuPCYc-L9HoxiXwVl1KdlHSPk/s1600/general+hospital+4.jpg" height="237" width="320" /></a></div>
sound you just
heard was millions of GH fans collectively slamming their foreheads against their desks. It’s
just ludicrous.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And, what’s even funnier is that Rafe isn’t dead quite yet.
He’s just brain dead. I mean, just last week, Alice collapsed at ELQ and we
found out she needed a new heart and – oh my stars and garters – here’s a heart
for her. What are the odds of that?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pretty big in Carlivati’s world, frankly. Why do you think
Lulu is considering having a baby? Because Ava is going to need one to steal in
nine months after Nina throws her down a flight of stairs. That’s why.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why do you think immigration suddenly showed up at Maxie’s
apartment? Because Levi called them himself to force Maxie into a green card
marriage (just wait for it) to try and keep her away from Nathan.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjG741VRSdW9f00wVrFf-7qOwHmphGGEs48LAGNIsW1y6Tmp7ddrCn7zSNkqDkVesqdm-fZCYBF_9sY1iPC-DsUpeA4GazMO8ZqpFvKOQl-Epcxp-hXE1B6Xwa8XdmbhTkxnmF-l5bzbe/s1600/general+hospital+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjG741VRSdW9f00wVrFf-7qOwHmphGGEs48LAGNIsW1y6Tmp7ddrCn7zSNkqDkVesqdm-fZCYBF_9sY1iPC-DsUpeA4GazMO8ZqpFvKOQl-Epcxp-hXE1B6Xwa8XdmbhTkxnmF-l5bzbe/s1600/general+hospital+7.jpg" height="237" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Carlivati needs to stop with his current mantra: All plot
all the time, none of that pesky character development.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He needs to reverse course, take a long look around, and fix
what he’s broken. Sure, Bob Guza actually broke GH. Carlivati is desecrating
the corpse, though, and it’s gone from mildly irritating to repugnant.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fans want to see what’s going on with Lucy, Felicia, Kevin
and Scotty.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fans want Monica trotted out for more than a medical malady.
We haven’t seen her since AJ’s funeral, for crying out loud.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fans want to see some romance – and Nathan and Maxie can’t
carry the entire show.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I will give Carlivati some (minor) kudos, though: Revitalizing the
Brownstone was a great idea. All these <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4sCwXSido0ewto8gD8i9NTD-if-P00pyK-QHKEdzST2Rj7jVlgX47h6oSEHSaPwmJKKJ9z9vxxnvxazCIr_FYX0qTDq056e4QHKft-BGzr4fN3Zg730jd_2WV4MrGZ0BjkHzVAm8s11U/s1600/general+hospital+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4sCwXSido0ewto8gD8i9NTD-if-P00pyK-QHKEdzST2Rj7jVlgX47h6oSEHSaPwmJKKJ9z9vxxnvxazCIr_FYX0qTDq056e4QHKft-BGzr4fN3Zg730jd_2WV4MrGZ0BjkHzVAm8s11U/s1600/general+hospital+5.jpg" height="174" width="320" /></a></div>
young hipsters that are living with
family members would actually have a place to live together – and that could be
entertaining while also being a nod to the past.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That’s the only good thing – besides Nathan and Maxie (I
know, I sound like a broken record) – right now, though.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Because there’s certainly no rooting value in Nina and Ava –
the airhogs of summer. There’s certainly no rooting value in the rapist with a
brain tumor, Franco. There’s certainly no rooting value in Ric faking his death
and letting Julian go free. And there’s certainly no rooting value in Jordan
and Anna having hilariously public conversations in the park.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Shape up Carlivati. Fans have put up with enough. We want
our show back.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
What do you think? Did Carlivati make a mistake killing off
Rafe?<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-10488108925110565312014-06-24T15:54:00.001-07:002014-06-24T15:54:45.629-07:00GENERAL HOSPITAL: Nina is now at the top of my “list”<div class="MsoNormal">
Oh, Nina, you are crazy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You’re not bordering the line of crazy. Honey, you’ve
crossed it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You’re not justifiably angry and hurt and lashing out –
because that would be understandable, and the powers that be at <i>General
Hospital</i> don’t do understandable.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaXw6dbroaoApUC4jJCoPi7AEivOISBbr60-m7ncXffKiZ0u5UsaGgoZsPmA1dNKIk4OiHo3CPKcBhsyKzFweH4q57Ag8MmwphttspcdE-UA7VB0i2JnHaY8zvA7TIc0VdbdW3DrH9i7VV/s1600/nina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaXw6dbroaoApUC4jJCoPi7AEivOISBbr60-m7ncXffKiZ0u5UsaGgoZsPmA1dNKIk4OiHo3CPKcBhsyKzFweH4q57Ag8MmwphttspcdE-UA7VB0i2JnHaY8zvA7TIc0VdbdW3DrH9i7VV/s1600/nina.jpg" height="194" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No, Nina, you’ve jumped on the train and are speeding
towards Crazy Town – where you will be named queen and reign forever with no
other able to usurp your power.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think most viewers knew that – when Michelle Stafford was
hired – Nina wasn’t going to be some consummate victim. No, she was going to be
a mean heroine with a certain strength to buoy her. I don’t think anyone
realized that strength was going to be diagnosable mental illness, though.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Head writer Ron Carlivati has wasted no time in making sure
that viewers realize that Nina is crazy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A more subtle writer would have dragged things out; let us
wonder about Nina, feel for her. Not RC, though. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjAxwj8HRZCYST9id8syogakZpKfGBV-9hjD55NUGRjJnnGqhBxVpeo7fPgUxz75GaXAm__NX7xeD41pwrHV_5OQYoYP-9dGwzlg_vze06rTQs2LXTLaQMe5Xntf3r1fA7UABCuWPPbWkr/s1600/nina+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjAxwj8HRZCYST9id8syogakZpKfGBV-9hjD55NUGRjJnnGqhBxVpeo7fPgUxz75GaXAm__NX7xeD41pwrHV_5OQYoYP-9dGwzlg_vze06rTQs2LXTLaQMe5Xntf3r1fA7UABCuWPPbWkr/s1600/nina+2.jpg" /></a></div>
He had to keep his title as
Plot Driven King intact so he outed her two weeks into her tenure and gave her
absolutely no rooting value whatsoever.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I would like to think
this means that Stafford is only on for the short term – but since RC insisted
on giving Franco a tumor and trying to make him a hero, I have my doubts.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On Tuesday’s episode, Nina and her “nurse” sat down to make
a hit list. Okay, maybe they won’t all die, but she wants to exert some pain on
these people. So Silas, Ava, Sam, Madeline and Kiki better watch out (although,
how she blames Kiki for any of this is beyond me).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It gave me an idea, though. If Nina can make a “list” then I’m
going to make my own GH hit list.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
These are the characters that have done me
wrong – and Nina really is at the top of the list after the past two weeks for all the reasons mentioned above -- and I want some bloody retribution.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXMVfMIknNkL-dRxrvcyXKr-oqqYMhiz54ARCwsZXwEzfYhApY1_5ja91R5Ruzztd3dMZ0hYIrRhlQvb9G3QbXIJ2TIRKAmDnn9FsraDc2IoVGZevQ8-MEnBTx4ZFAvN9LPPkJwC4fw2Y/s1600/sabrina.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXMVfMIknNkL-dRxrvcyXKr-oqqYMhiz54ARCwsZXwEzfYhApY1_5ja91R5Ruzztd3dMZ0hYIrRhlQvb9G3QbXIJ2TIRKAmDnn9FsraDc2IoVGZevQ8-MEnBTx4ZFAvN9LPPkJwC4fw2Y/s1600/sabrina.png" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>10. Sabrina Santiago:</b> She made me watch her whine and moon
after a man that was clearly out of her league for months. She had every
character on the canvas – some created just for this sole purpose – propping her
to the point where I wanted to deafen myself with Q-tips every time she was on
the screen. I half expected the first words Robert spoke when he woke up from his coma to be: "Forget the fact that I saw Robin and she is alive, how is that nice Sabrina girl that keeps trying to steal Robin's life doing?" I hate passive aggressive characters, and Sabrina fits on that list
– right between Lily and Courtney. Let’s hope that Sabrina decides to stay in
Puerto Rico for good.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>9. Carly Jacks:</b> You are living with the man that facilitated
the rape of your son. The man that kidnapped <o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8oLzLBon1cJIGBz7cW9v_BFPIdP35bTl45QEvyGAUA8MnALCDAyXbJJuAMerZDIO7EF20KUBbgpwZZvWe4-WryRpGPLsiJzFiary3y2loWqAm3pLsYzdUPGQ3JsOdHRaLflcFjniwKDWk/s1600/carly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8oLzLBon1cJIGBz7cW9v_BFPIdP35bTl45QEvyGAUA8MnALCDAyXbJJuAMerZDIO7EF20KUBbgpwZZvWe4-WryRpGPLsiJzFiary3y2loWqAm3pLsYzdUPGQ3JsOdHRaLflcFjniwKDWk/s1600/carly.jpg" /></a></div>
your daughter. The man that faked
the rape of your best friend’s wife. You make excuses for his “brain tumor” –
but the only one buying that is you. Your children certainly aren’t. And, while
you’re off trying to run Sonny’s life, you’ve left your brat of a daughter with
the guy that once kidnapped her. On the flip side, you know that your ex-husband brutally killed the father of your child and you're protecting him -- even though you've said he's a danger to your children time and again. Buy a clue, Carly.<br />
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ZXnJN-h52pNCn4qQ7Xu8uOJYBmVOeuPasAm9KfBxYoBYhn9KQXTy-IwBuMc8bsoCaryou-_5BcL6Fj2kwPcUB1Th7XIAW3W68wpJjar2msShOrVyXlHqroeKiiEwaeZpmybZsS_dNGLp/s1600/ava.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ZXnJN-h52pNCn4qQ7Xu8uOJYBmVOeuPasAm9KfBxYoBYhn9KQXTy-IwBuMc8bsoCaryou-_5BcL6Fj2kwPcUB1Th7XIAW3W68wpJjar2msShOrVyXlHqroeKiiEwaeZpmybZsS_dNGLp/s1600/ava.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>8. Ava Jerome: </b>Enough is enough. You shot Olivia, killed
Connie, framed AJ, slept with your son-in-law, set up AJ’s death by mobster,
had sleazy crypt sex with your boyfriend’s father, threatened everyone in town
and betrayed your brother. It’s time to die. Since you’re on Nina’s list, I’m
guessing a fall down the stairs is in your future – and then a baby theft (anyone
else wondering why Lulu is pushing for a kid so hard? Ava’s going to need a
baby to steal). I don’t want another baby theft and I’m tired of Ava being on
every day. I love Maura West, but I want to see Lucy, Kevin and Scotty – not Ava.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitYnfhYPmOFfKsoOkaGOdwXbp1xz6NjpYtLxgmJKqHHQxWprbmNFjAO-Pme8ub70rWTLN7exfEUusA-3B00JxoWF91hbzrcTNV9UlNz36w7gT5gOqI8FrXpgggmq2xiIvp22gxy6dD0V7/s1600/sonny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitYnfhYPmOFfKsoOkaGOdwXbp1xz6NjpYtLxgmJKqHHQxWprbmNFjAO-Pme8ub70rWTLN7exfEUusA-3B00JxoWF91hbzrcTNV9UlNz36w7gT5gOqI8FrXpgggmq2xiIvp22gxy6dD0V7/s1600/sonny.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a><b>7. Sonny Corinthos:</b> You’re a despicable human being. You
like to fancy yourself as a mobster with a heart of gold, but you’re not. You’ve
betrayed everyone in your life. Everyone. You’ve declared your children off limits while
terrorizing the children of your enemies. You killed an innocent unarmed man –
after stealing his child from him. You never take any responsibility for your
own mistakes but blame anyone and everyone else you can. You’ve thrown more barware than a drunken hooker -- and fathered more children than a jacked up NBA star. I’m just tired
of you. It’s time for Sonny to ride off into the sunset with Brenda. It’s
<i>General Hospital</i> – not General Mobspital.<br />
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimE_MIHCPdOWJYg4hnFx-1IAkJGFoRxRpljqn5leUiGeyRgVLLZJCg_DBul3hiGiqyVHek59komCglKKDX2dTuRBY2J-0h6TUvY0h5E8WgtLvzYgjSQbsnlT7WIiNpRGuBDC-MbwRKEDel/s1600/olivia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimE_MIHCPdOWJYg4hnFx-1IAkJGFoRxRpljqn5leUiGeyRgVLLZJCg_DBul3hiGiqyVHek59komCglKKDX2dTuRBY2J-0h6TUvY0h5E8WgtLvzYgjSQbsnlT7WIiNpRGuBDC-MbwRKEDel/s1600/olivia.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>6. Olivia Falconeri:</b> There’s no rooting value in her
relationship with Sonny because it all happened off screen. Her visions are embarrassing.
Her intrusion in her grown son’s life is annoying. And, quite frankly, I think
she’s worn out her welcome in Port Charles. If ever there was a character that
could just be lifted right out (to help ease the over-population in Port
Charles) it is Olivia. Maybe it’s time she returned to Bensonhurst.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi62rE9hhcoCFHB8VTGogkEFI2gonNGhu3jRziBbJKUpl1__Mq3g7VCu3kLyM94Um_IIP3TAawtD8kLkuP6o5ij_1dl_Dax2IGG9neGnaSNGF7Bkv1cJlLEFeVqgVKAFGu0QQWbsK95SbKy/s1600/lulu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi62rE9hhcoCFHB8VTGogkEFI2gonNGhu3jRziBbJKUpl1__Mq3g7VCu3kLyM94Um_IIP3TAawtD8kLkuP6o5ij_1dl_Dax2IGG9neGnaSNGF7Bkv1cJlLEFeVqgVKAFGu0QQWbsK95SbKy/s1600/lulu.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a><b>5. Lulu Spencer:</b> While I’ve never warmed to Emme Rylan’s
Lulu, I have decided to look at the character as someone else completely –
which at least makes the character tolerable to me. Kind of. The sudden insistence
on carrying her own baby – right on the heels of getting Rocco back – makes me
want to smack the character, though. You live in a shoe box and you can barely
take care of the kid you have now. I know RC is just forcing this so Ava has a
baby to steal when Nina deprives her of the one she’s carrying but, come on,
does Lulu’s entire life have to be around procreation? Because it has been for
the past two years and it’s getting old.<br />
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfRrLk8ytQCFtHxyhRFcAG3AQy8U3LIsMMNUeQhI49aeGykiIdlIPrCQM0_m8ZVGLhecnqN705W4S7LhINkn6_zarBhysuV0j4LMisMWIzIy4ThQ5Rt6tR_yOBOgQOHmc7LL41jZqVedRU/s1600/morgan.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfRrLk8ytQCFtHxyhRFcAG3AQy8U3LIsMMNUeQhI49aeGykiIdlIPrCQM0_m8ZVGLhecnqN705W4S7LhINkn6_zarBhysuV0j4LMisMWIzIy4ThQ5Rt6tR_yOBOgQOHmc7LL41jZqVedRU/s1600/morgan.png" height="200" width="159" /></a></div>
<b>4. Morgan Corinthos:</b> If he screeches “Mikey!” one more time …
I swear, I'm going to pop him one. I think Morgan has potential as a character and I think the actor who
portrays him is going to go on and find success in prime time and movies (probably sooner, rather than later). If we get the full three years with Bryan Craig in the role, we should consider ourselves lucky -- because the kid is going to run away to do something else at that point. That
being said, Morgan is a whiny brat. The fact that he would even consider
raising a baby with Ava after what she did makes my stomach turn. Morgan should
be a dynamic character – let’s not saddle him with the never ending task of
propping Ava. It wears on me. Bring on Scotty, Kevin and Lucy's kids for an age-appropriate love interest.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXDLVUn6FKG2kNFvl4Sl30oBEpbjNpJXJ2xRpOskVVuI-7CACUmW9idqns-Vtt5e8Rz7jPC3Sg5nwuwLfD2DgRm_3OYGEZfbjBvfjHvX5QFUd71f4dbdV08TjmiH9L-bN_xy6zniYT8RRE/s1600/tracy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXDLVUn6FKG2kNFvl4Sl30oBEpbjNpJXJ2xRpOskVVuI-7CACUmW9idqns-Vtt5e8Rz7jPC3Sg5nwuwLfD2DgRm_3OYGEZfbjBvfjHvX5QFUd71f4dbdV08TjmiH9L-bN_xy6zniYT8RRE/s1600/tracy.jpg" height="226" width="320" /></a><b>3. Tracy Quartermaine:</b> Tracy has been many things over the
years – including a woman that was willing to let her father die for power. She
is not an idiot, though. So Tracy refusing to see the light where Fluke is
concerned irritates me. She keeps accusing Kiki of hitting on Luke. But she
never asks herself: Why? Kiki is with a rich young man who adores her. Luke is
a pasty old white dude that doesn’t have two nickels to ruin together. So why
would Kiki be after him? Then there’s that whole forgetting Dante’s name and
acting weird every time she turns around. You’re a mean woman, Tracey, you’re
not an idiot.<br />
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglVN3n7aIsK4O29WOTnjdbL4lKz_ZhRXFQRnAnndZEl1m7LGs-h1iPV9tefVlxLnUbdF5Yz1MUV0_acwIoLNsb32ZqcbjSjYUTC6oKZ7QfIBEu8s4Rgys2ntoyQFD8T4JS0xRNZ3rZ5OCF/s1600/levi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglVN3n7aIsK4O29WOTnjdbL4lKz_ZhRXFQRnAnndZEl1m7LGs-h1iPV9tefVlxLnUbdF5Yz1MUV0_acwIoLNsb32ZqcbjSjYUTC6oKZ7QfIBEu8s4Rgys2ntoyQFD8T4JS0xRNZ3rZ5OCF/s1600/levi.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<b>2. Levi Dunkleman:</b> You have no redeeming qualities. Your
voice is like nails on a chalkboard. You’re alienating Maxie from her family (including
keeping her from good food) and keeping her from her child. You're self-righteous and a know-it-all. You’re also clearly up
to something. I know you’re just being used as a temporary stumbling block for
Nathan and Maxie – with another ulterior motive thrown in for good measure, perhaps -- but that weird shadow on your top lip makes me want attack
you with a really painful laser electrolysis system – or a burning hot Epilady.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvXidA9qs9Mlxl2qsvZDv3ov0mzH4jl6owSrVwMWUoediMYtJpD03WTyCs-mkl_qOQf7M23As6VCaKcMvNOsIlmFrUc1C-ZXBNvcdRS_Eh8rrFyemGW4nDrURS_gqlvCoOyVnCjjkARN9v/s1600/carlivati.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvXidA9qs9Mlxl2qsvZDv3ov0mzH4jl6owSrVwMWUoediMYtJpD03WTyCs-mkl_qOQf7M23As6VCaKcMvNOsIlmFrUc1C-ZXBNvcdRS_Eh8rrFyemGW4nDrURS_gqlvCoOyVnCjjkARN9v/s1600/carlivati.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a><b>1. Ron Carlivati:</b> Okay, he’s not a character. He has managed
to ruin GH, though. Previous head writer Bob Guza decimated GH. He did. He lost
millions of viewers while trying to prop his agenda, all the while flogging viewers with
Jason, Carly and Sonny every single day. He’s the reason GH is in big trouble
right now. That being said, RC is the one dousing the corpse with gasoline and
lighting it on fire. RC is a plot driven writer – not a character driven writer
– and the things that are going on at GH – like Nina and her stupid list – are not
acceptable right now. For the love of all that’s holy, please try to get Claire
Labine back. She’s the only one that can right this sinking ship. GH got left off the best writing list for the Emmys -- even though there were two open spots. The show couldn't even get a pity nomination. That's a direct message to Carlivati.</div>
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What do you think? Who would make your list?<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-38962901541514989572014-06-20T14:36:00.001-07:002014-06-20T14:36:15.361-07:00TELEVISION: Falling Skies returns Sunday – but is it still worth watching?<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve been a big fan of TNT’s <i>Falling Skies</i> since the
beginning.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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To be fair, I wasn’t sure if I would like the alien drama.
The only thing I knew about Noah Wylie’s acting ability was that he drove me
nuts on <i>ER</i> and he was in those <i>Librarian</i> movies – which didn’t really interest
me (knowing that Christian Kane is going to be in the new series, though, will
force me to watch – but that’s a whole other issue).<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieMOGYjZoDyT0CvjGoqBEOZ3xmLb0HvsU_CZ-n89yhMgkTQQKH9IFlIp7l9VKGtJHXriuJHo9HMCmEFpa8k6qPeWoOw4kj0nDRw1V1lWkb4xzb14yOg04_Rw12V3Uma3Meu8wTqd0PA9_N/s1600/falling+skies+6.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieMOGYjZoDyT0CvjGoqBEOZ3xmLb0HvsU_CZ-n89yhMgkTQQKH9IFlIp7l9VKGtJHXriuJHo9HMCmEFpa8k6qPeWoOw4kj0nDRw1V1lWkb4xzb14yOg04_Rw12V3Uma3Meu8wTqd0PA9_N/s1600/falling+skies+6.png" height="231" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Steven Spielberg gave the show some heft, though – and I do
love an alien invasion storyline.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, I tuned in – and I was blown away.<o:p></o:p></div>
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To me, <i>Falling Skies</i> is what the <i>V</i> reboot should have been.
It was gritty, well-acted and it touched on the bigger questions about
collaborators and human nature when the world comes to an end. The <i>V</i> reboot –
despite Elizabeth Mitchell – was all flash and no substance.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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At its heart, <i>Falling Skies</i> is about family. Tom Mason
(Wylie) lost his wife in the early days of the invasion. His middle son, Ben
(Connor Jessup), is taken by the aliens and “harnessed” and forced to do slave
labor. His eldest son, Hal (Drew Roy) is stuck between being a boy and being a
man and his youngest son, Matt (Maxim Knight) is trying to learn what being a
kid really means in a new world.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Supporting characters include Will Patton’s gruff and loyal
Captain Weaver, Moon Bloodgood’s quiet and <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomPE19tFRCy0MkEfyFgVaZqhcxcleIPsFJHL7Z9jerNrdd0RqYQlpiIsCu-tsu4uiKpUOhWOvgG7W7G3JdqdP-NYf_yStoz-o2I99n4srKfV0lBgi4cUi9bOGuaR_09A84YtO7naR7VXv/s1600/falling+skies+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomPE19tFRCy0MkEfyFgVaZqhcxcleIPsFJHL7Z9jerNrdd0RqYQlpiIsCu-tsu4uiKpUOhWOvgG7W7G3JdqdP-NYf_yStoz-o2I99n4srKfV0lBgi4cUi9bOGuaR_09A84YtO7naR7VXv/s1600/falling+skies+1.jpg" height="219" width="320" /></a></div>
dedicated Anne, Colin Cunningham’s rapscallion John
Pope, Seychelle Gabrielle’s innocent Lourdes and Sarah Sanguin Carter’s feisty Maggie.<br />
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<br /></div>
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Through the three previous seasons, other characters have
come and gone – but most of <i>Falling Skies’</i> drama is generated through these
characters.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The first season of the show as all about survival and
dealing with the harnessed kids. Once Ben is freed, we soon find out the
harness has mixed alien DNA with his own and given him enhanced abilities.
Through the years, Jessup has grown the most as an actor and his Ben is the
character that most often serves as the moral compass to those around him.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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On the flip side, Hal often reverts to teenage whining as he
straddles a line between adulthood and the inconsiderate teenager he was before
the world came to an end. As his love interest, Maggie is probably the most
interesting female character – and her loyalty is only tested by her pragmatic
nature.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDtoEVNX1kckdukjrq9dVI-R504XBn3BzrPF_lZSDo-cF2rsHNbnqkVYuojcVXSxiebJemOsoXN1C8_rnlccdAjYNk6s4lwr9sMTxYOJpsHu4wXJvZyaa0fYm-8iP4QmbvTMla8i5NOa3U/s1600/falling+skies+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDtoEVNX1kckdukjrq9dVI-R504XBn3BzrPF_lZSDo-cF2rsHNbnqkVYuojcVXSxiebJemOsoXN1C8_rnlccdAjYNk6s4lwr9sMTxYOJpsHu4wXJvZyaa0fYm-8iP4QmbvTMla8i5NOa3U/s1600/falling+skies+2.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first two seasons of <i>Falling Skies</i> were strong – but I
had issues with the third season.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I didn’t have a problem with Hal being implanted with a worm
so the aliens could control him. That’s good science fiction.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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And, as a viewer, I understood that Bloodgood’s real life
pregnancy forced Anne to be off screen for most of the season. Those things
happen in television. It is what it is.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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On the flip side, though, I’ve found the show dwelling on unimportant
political issues at times – and that seems to drag down the narrative.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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And, finally, Tom and Anne’s newborn daughter is (quite
frankly) a jump the shark moment.</div>
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<o:p></o:p><br />
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<br /></div>
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Anne gave birth to Alexis early in season three, found out
she was somehow an alien hybrid and then disappeared with her for the bulk of
the season – only showing back up in the season finale. When the duo did show
back up, Alexis had aged years and could now walk and talk.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I think Kenneth Johnson should sue.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Johnson, the creator and writer of <i>V</i>, also wrote about a
half alien, half human, hybrid named Elizabeth. Elizabeth also grew rapidly –
so rapidly she saved the day at the end of <i>V: The Final Battle</i>. While Alexis
hasn’t technically saved the day yet, she did eradicate all the worms that were
infecting Lourdes and she appears to have some sort of power.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Johnson also wrote in his original work that the humans
joined forces with other aliens to eradicate the invading aliens (did you
follow that). And, when the first alien threat was over, it looked ominously
like the “helper” aliens were now going to take over.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTbLi8gPTuT3yPzVlKnItUKoddHjjLqDfj8joaZe9CmnE9vYmFRZlhbNvMRPU_Ib7TnzeVKPiFPRx-VWN42AMu9ASYyp_L2_8N3nWeHcs7NRT6O1vS_H5NlD8kT6vwoe7dXvaWS-laGh4O/s1600/falling+skies+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTbLi8gPTuT3yPzVlKnItUKoddHjjLqDfj8joaZe9CmnE9vYmFRZlhbNvMRPU_Ib7TnzeVKPiFPRx-VWN42AMu9ASYyp_L2_8N3nWeHcs7NRT6O1vS_H5NlD8kT6vwoe7dXvaWS-laGh4O/s1600/falling+skies+5.png" height="174" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That is also exactly what is happening in <i>Falling Skies</i>. The
Volm have showed up, pledging that the enemy of my enemy is my friend, and said
they will help defeat the invading alien army. Then, at the very end of season
three, they tried to relocate all the humans to camps for their own safety
while they continued the war.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of course, our heroes balked, and we’ll have to wait until
Sunday to find out what will happen next for them, but I’m a little worried.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I still think<i> Falling Skies</i> is well-written and acted, but
the writing is starting to suffer. Let’s hope that season four rights the ship
instead of sending it down the same road that <i>V: The Series</i> did before it was
ultimately cancelled.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What won’t work is Alexis being the new focal point and
sudden “savior” to us all. That failed on <i>V</i> and it will fail here.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Alien invasion stories only work when you look at the human
element associated with it. <i>Falling Skies</i> is – sadly – starting to lose the
human element.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
What do you think? Is <i>Falling Skies</i> losing its mojo?<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-80583212968509492042014-06-18T13:16:00.001-07:002014-06-18T13:16:22.862-07:00TELEVISION: When is your favorite show kicking off its summer season?<div class="MsoNormal">
It used to be that summer was a desert for new programming.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
None of the networks (big five or otherwise) wanted to waste
their shows on a season when people historically didn’t watch television.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That’s not the case anymore.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9M6Y4Gkw0mDLBKEdDXYz2MPcqAqcw-BXKJ5ljYFds0F-LH5I-FKsjU7OuOT_79YJDOnQGEDskgRt6BV7SxUiJGoma4HHPTqO4V-0ErszP7CcXxLO3ZDGt8HLMxVRhyphenhyphenaiyfZWQWwZdJNSU/s1600/witches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9M6Y4Gkw0mDLBKEdDXYz2MPcqAqcw-BXKJ5ljYFds0F-LH5I-FKsjU7OuOT_79YJDOnQGEDskgRt6BV7SxUiJGoma4HHPTqO4V-0ErszP7CcXxLO3ZDGt8HLMxVRhyphenhyphenaiyfZWQWwZdJNSU/s1600/witches.jpg" height="218" width="320" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Not only is summer a peak television season now – some of
summer’s most reliable shows are also marking real viewership highs.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For me, summer has become about guilty pleasures like <i>True
Blood</i>, <i>Switched at Birth</i>, <i>Dallas</i>, <i>Witches of East End</i> and <i>Wilfred</i>. There are
other shows, though, like <i>Suits</i>, <i>Falling Skies</i> and <i>Under the Dome</i> that offer
true quality.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While this may be <i>True Blood’s</i> last season, a couple of the
networks are also offering new fare – which I’m curious to check out, including
<i>The Last Ship</i>, <i>The Leftovers</i>, and <i>The Strain</i> (which is based on a series of
books I enjoy).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, when does your favorite show premiere?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>June 19</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Defiance (8 p.m., Syfy)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dominion (9 p.m., Syfy)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rectify (9 p.m., Sundance)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rookie Blue (9 p.m., ABC)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>June 21</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Almost Royal (10 p.m., BBC)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>June 22</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wipeout (8 p.m., ABC)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Last Ship (9 p.m., TNT)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Musketeers (9 p.m., BBC America)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rising Star (9 p.m., ABC)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
True Blood (9 p.m., HBO)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Falling Skies (10 p.m., TNT)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>June 23</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CeeLo Green’s The Good Life (10:30 p.m., TBS)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>June 24</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Covert Affairs (10 p.m., USA)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
NY Med (10 p.m., ABC)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tyrant (10 p.m., FX)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>June 25<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Big Brother (8 p.m., CBS)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Young & Hungry (8 p.m., ABC Family)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mystery Girls (8:30 p.m., ABC Family)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Taxi Brooklyn (10 p.m., NBC)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wilfred (10 p.m., FXX)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>June 27</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Girl Meets World (9:30 p.m., Disney)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>June 29</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Reckless (9 p.m., CBS)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Leftovers (10 p.m., HBO)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Unforgettable (10 p.m., CBS)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>June 30</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Under the Dome (10 p.m., CBS)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>July 6</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Witches of East End (9 p.m., Lifetime)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>July 9</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Extant (9 p.m., CBS)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bridge (10 p.m., FX)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>July 10</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Welcome to Sweden (9 p.m., NBC)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Working the Engels (9:30 p.m., NBC)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>July 11</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hemlock Grove (Netflix)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>July 13</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ray Donovan (9 p.m., Showtime)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Masters of Sex (10 p.m., Showtime)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Strain (10 p.m., FX)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>July 14</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Backpackers (8:30 p.m., CW)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Seed (9:30 p.m., CW)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>July 17</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rush (9 p.m., USA)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Married (10 p.m., FXX)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Satisfaction (10 p.m., USA)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You’re the Worst (10:30 p.m., FXX)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>July 22</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Food Fighters (8 p.m., NBC)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>July 23</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
America’s Got Talent (9 p.m., NBC)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>July 27</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Manhattan (10 p.m., WGN)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>July 30</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Penn & Teller: Fool Us (8 p.m., CW)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>July 31</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Quest (8 p.m., ABC)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>August 1</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Killing (Netflix)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Masters of Illusion (8 p.m., CW)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>August 4</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bachelor in Paradise (8 p.m., ABC)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Partners (9 p.m., FX)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>August 8</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Knick (10 p.m., Cinemax)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>August 9</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Outlander (9 p.m., Starz)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>August 13</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Legends (9 p.m., TNT)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Franklin & Bash (10 p.m., TNT)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>August 18</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dallas (9 p.m., TNT)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What do you think? What’s your favorite summer show<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-83379211629497775952014-06-17T16:55:00.001-07:002014-06-17T16:59:13.139-07:00TELEVISION: Saying goodbye to True Blood is a mixed blessing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhdf_kc9YWfroEkDzqdw7mJBod2f4PnKEF5Y8NImZW3PWJoSYJAjWGTeBQ2NxgMOfPZK9G3F9QwCqb8PW-10QlOE7_tM7-Z1J-UQLwvnwQCeLV0qnqhMuYBnGWAoAqW2PVIJbzYMw-Rvkg/s1600/True+Blood+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhdf_kc9YWfroEkDzqdw7mJBod2f4PnKEF5Y8NImZW3PWJoSYJAjWGTeBQ2NxgMOfPZK9G3F9QwCqb8PW-10QlOE7_tM7-Z1J-UQLwvnwQCeLV0qnqhMuYBnGWAoAqW2PVIJbzYMw-Rvkg/s1600/True+Blood+1.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I loved <i>True Blood</i> before it was even a television show. That
is to say that I loved the books that the series was based on, so I was
determined to love the series, too.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s always an iffy proposition when a beloved book series
is turned into entertainment for the masses. Thankfully, for fans of Charlaine
Harris’ Southern Vampire Mysteries, HBO was the network that became home to
Sookie Stackhouse and her merry band of cohorts.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since the show was on HBO, that meant that there was rampant
swearing, nudity and violence – all things I’m totally fine with. It’s not for
everyone, but it upped the entertainment value for me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When the show debuted, it was a cultural phenomenon out of
the gate. The first season was well done, well <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1gOHyLRpjxzWVOEka91lb_ianfEjiryiVgE4sQ7nyZvJITRMk11vygWd2GP156wMQhOhJYpl5k3jbc1omHsqQNHLhEJev187F_6UWF8zAMHxk9JxTGxzcqkONQfOsb-BelXcJACGd23y6/s1600/true+blood+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1gOHyLRpjxzWVOEka91lb_ianfEjiryiVgE4sQ7nyZvJITRMk11vygWd2GP156wMQhOhJYpl5k3jbc1omHsqQNHLhEJev187F_6UWF8zAMHxk9JxTGxzcqkONQfOsb-BelXcJACGd23y6/s1600/true+blood+2.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
acted, well cast, and well
paced. There really was very little to complain about.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Unfortunately, that can only be said about the first season.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Starting with season two, a disturbing trend started to
surface: Hit-or-miss writing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think, when the writers focused on the big three – Sookie,
Bill and Eric – the writing was usually solid. There were gaps in their
stories, too – don’t get me wrong – but it was still fairly even.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was the secondary characters that saw the brunt of the
bad writing – especially Sam, Alcide and Lafayette.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS0EhlJ6-m6v5cVuZcLKDBGHD581WSqTnOZFVkdAqNIAn1fz7jhPahKuumVrPeCZjroR2De9TTnjGVVKI4dkBerlRkmd4-Rn1QsDxgmzdME6g0Nvwv2fUeeWwqYq-UJCAKDimlr7cW_0ch/s1600/true+blood+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS0EhlJ6-m6v5cVuZcLKDBGHD581WSqTnOZFVkdAqNIAn1fz7jhPahKuumVrPeCZjroR2De9TTnjGVVKI4dkBerlRkmd4-Rn1QsDxgmzdME6g0Nvwv2fUeeWwqYq-UJCAKDimlr7cW_0ch/s1600/true+blood+3.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Because <i>True Blood</i> drifted so far from the literary source
material – the writers could essentially do what they wanted to do. That was
both a good and a bad thing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take <i>Game of Thrones</i>, for example. I love the show, but it
sticks to the books a lot more than <i>True Blood</i> does. Therefore, every big death
that has happened, has come straight from the books – so it’s not that
surprising.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>True Blood</i>, on the other hand, broke from its literary
source.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lafayette, for example, should have been dead after the
first season. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that practically every storyline
he’s had since that first season has been a righteous dud.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then there’s Alcide, who – other than his introduction story
– has been mired in pack politics that don’t <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO1Uc4GYmudNF8OeX8jNXfimar81UuZbAKcNYp8xTaDXboUUnyMjh1JINHnazzrHGAWzgnQuw5hVKZLebx2Tgn15EBoIPz3W9q2fjWFSFHR8mkteec8qFjEkFFhFYMLsTOp-GowIDbArwG/s1600/true+blood+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO1Uc4GYmudNF8OeX8jNXfimar81UuZbAKcNYp8xTaDXboUUnyMjh1JINHnazzrHGAWzgnQuw5hVKZLebx2Tgn15EBoIPz3W9q2fjWFSFHR8mkteec8qFjEkFFhFYMLsTOp-GowIDbArwG/s1600/true+blood+4.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
match the book and often find the
character backsliding on a regular basis.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sam has wandered from story to story – never quite fitting
in – and suddenly professed his love to a young woman he’d known all of two
weeks (right on the tail of Luna dying) and his characters seems to be lost at
sea.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the flip side, Jason Stackhouse continues to delight. I
hate the character of Jason in the books and yet I can’t get enough of him in
the series. Every dumb thing he does makes me laugh. Every heroic thing he does
makes me laugh. Quite frankly, practically everything he does makes me laugh.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Unfortunately for Jason, his new vampire story seems to be a
real dud. I have a feeling he’ll end up with Jessica when it’s all said and
done – although I still hope she’ll end up with Hoyt.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1NW78-hsYyq98h1Pyij9upe2D5cen3_yRkLMjyyvJjfcwod6rAla374mtsQ0NTA5_0QMkeZ1yKsINL7wUo618y6sY6MuSUvSZgHhLRvccObW5yYxObmaUeqadMgECBFrdHk0no93RpHRo/s1600/true+blood+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1NW78-hsYyq98h1Pyij9upe2D5cen3_yRkLMjyyvJjfcwod6rAla374mtsQ0NTA5_0QMkeZ1yKsINL7wUo618y6sY6MuSUvSZgHhLRvccObW5yYxObmaUeqadMgECBFrdHk0no93RpHRo/s1600/true+blood+5.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Speaking of Jessica, she’s a character that doesn’t exist in
the books and who – for the most part – has been an absolute diamond in the rough. I fell
in love with Jessica when Hoyt did – and I still feel a little sad about their
breakup. Still, she had a better story in season six than just about anyone
else.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think True Blood’s greatest mistake was delving into fairy
stuff too often. Although, to be fair, I thought that was the books’ biggest
mistakes, too.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And, when it comes down to it, I don’t know any book fans
that truly ended up happy when Harris ended the series last year. I’m kind of
curious what will happen when the television series ends this year?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eric fans (both book and television) have made no bones
about what they want. I think they’re going to be <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaRZgq7u3ynVgU6EiYwL-7bRbBSm8jC-aW9w-m5pD1fXp5LqZpy5mckYDQe1WiQTEUMcMY74ISaAbi243A0kufpCgGdLLRnuuTODg5b6lRdGmPQJ33YBlIhTaxAZsCM-DSKftyaafVaeEi/s1600/true+blood+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaRZgq7u3ynVgU6EiYwL-7bRbBSm8jC-aW9w-m5pD1fXp5LqZpy5mckYDQe1WiQTEUMcMY74ISaAbi243A0kufpCgGdLLRnuuTODg5b6lRdGmPQJ33YBlIhTaxAZsCM-DSKftyaafVaeEi/s1600/true+blood+6.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
disappointed, though. Eric’s
storyline has deviated and, while he and Sookie occasionally cross paths, I don’t
think they’ve built up any great love story between the two of them on screen.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eric fans are vocal and often whiny (yeah, I said it), and
they stomp their feet and throw a tantrum to get what they want – but I don’t
see it happening here, just like it didn't happen in the books.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the real world, I think Sookie and Alcide would make the
most sense. She’s not immortal (neither is he) and that whole age thing would
be a pesky barrier. She doesn’t want to be turned into a vampire, so what are
her options if she’s with a vampire?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This isn’t the real world, though, and I honestly believe
that Bill and Sookie are end game.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj0uEojc70a8dnirHbOcCg1SS7lkn5hljd4khphni9-EaK0jLkpXeB7KSuUn4dJ95-9U7ROpGB3Zw3S_w-PQPzGzKl0Jam_c8MZXo-xXptYbk2c7_FXQlHojN0pfSsEz2voDZ7AllVvzgA/s1600/true+blood+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj0uEojc70a8dnirHbOcCg1SS7lkn5hljd4khphni9-EaK0jLkpXeB7KSuUn4dJ95-9U7ROpGB3Zw3S_w-PQPzGzKl0Jam_c8MZXo-xXptYbk2c7_FXQlHojN0pfSsEz2voDZ7AllVvzgA/s1600/true+blood+7.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They’ve gotten the bulk of the romantic story. The first
three seasons were completely about their relationship. And, after that, their
relationship was still the underlying story.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it, when Sookie and Eric got together – it was
put in terms of how it affected Bill and Sookie.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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When Bill became Billith, it was about how he was scaring
everyone – and especially Sookie.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When it came time to take out Warlow, despite everything he
said, it was Bill that was willing to die to save Sookie.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And, when you compound that with the fact that their
portrayers ,Stephen Moyer and Anna Paquin, are <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix71oSL_5jXsxZ8PAsDKYNm92mTADV4HFjJEhfjUZXZrc97LTL-FAvm0PL9qCx2PijpbnWOkBtAwskbCbW6b-iJy4RiLQv5Na388yJFSqIPrUjoTqk7L_R20QtEJXcTknefIvofsvjUzDj/s1600/true+blood+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix71oSL_5jXsxZ8PAsDKYNm92mTADV4HFjJEhfjUZXZrc97LTL-FAvm0PL9qCx2PijpbnWOkBtAwskbCbW6b-iJy4RiLQv5Na388yJFSqIPrUjoTqk7L_R20QtEJXcTknefIvofsvjUzDj/s1600/true+blood+8.jpg" height="226" width="320" /></a></div>
married in real life? I just think
the writers are going to make them end game. I don’t see another end there.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, we know this final season is about the vampires gearing
up for slaughter since the <i>True Blood</i> supply has been tainted. The last scene
of the sixth season was a group of them getting ready to descend on Bon Temps
and an outdoor barbecue.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The show runners have said that the season opens up with a
bloodbath – and some longtime characters may die in that opening scene. In
fact, one of the deaths is being called “shocking.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My guess is that Arlene, Terry, Lafayette or Tara’s mom will
be the shocking death. I’m sure some other people will die throughout the
season (Pam better survive and inherit the Earth), but I can’t see them taking
out a big dog too early.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj05-fNalPgdttW0rc7Nxs2cmqZLm_L0Vvl5sl8hHkn1HqkXjqeDbnDLBzrIXuDob0u3cqvfbdODHKGV_R4gHAm8nquDzXJwUPmv89QT-krRJAz_ugDiLpkZZfEFOAjxHPzyZH6jDqU05x2/s1600/true+blood+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj05-fNalPgdttW0rc7Nxs2cmqZLm_L0Vvl5sl8hHkn1HqkXjqeDbnDLBzrIXuDob0u3cqvfbdODHKGV_R4gHAm8nquDzXJwUPmv89QT-krRJAz_ugDiLpkZZfEFOAjxHPzyZH6jDqU05x2/s1600/true+blood+9.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a>In the end, I think <i>True Blood</i> was a beacon of entertainment
hope in a usually stiff summer season. In recent years, some of the summer
programming is actually better than fall and spring programming – and I think
<i>True Blood</i> deserves some of the accolades for that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Was <i>True Blood</i> perfect?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Absolutely not. <i>True Blood</i> idled at ridiculous and peaked at
stupid on occasion. The writing was also all over the place – with stories
being dropped out of the blue (Jason being a werepanther, Lafayette selling drugs,
Tara being attracted to men, etc.) and some supernatural themes being shoved
down our throat.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That being said, <i>True Blood</i> had moments of brilliance. And
here are my top five:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>5. Lafayette delivers an “AIDS” burger:</b> <i>True Blood </i>never
shied away from difficult topics. Lafayette <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4GA0sJ_5wr8yVrxGfcAeWrkp2kViKrGSFpLEMBiRj7aEa89BQbpfMy03mV_O9B6pL4SbYMJJt33RIjgolJzbw-dMs3BDdXPyUsEIFDHOvt1Ouo6e0NiaUooYHcIj8yWj_qBWrrG-cUHJ/s1600/lafayette+burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4GA0sJ_5wr8yVrxGfcAeWrkp2kViKrGSFpLEMBiRj7aEa89BQbpfMy03mV_O9B6pL4SbYMJJt33RIjgolJzbw-dMs3BDdXPyUsEIFDHOvt1Ouo6e0NiaUooYHcIj8yWj_qBWrrG-cUHJ/s1600/lafayette+burger.jpg" height="181" width="320" /></a></div>
being a gay man of color (who also
sold drugs) could have made him a stereotype. Instead, Lafayette managed to
steal the show on many occasions – including the season one episode where a
couple of red necks send Lafayette’s burger back because they don’t want to get
AIDS. Lafayette’s response – licking the bun, especially – was spot on. Not only
did he beat up all three of the “manly men” taunting him, but he also
admonished them to tip their waitress before leaving. That scene is only one of
a hundred that showcase why the first season was so great.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiMOsJGQ4_GBY7daHJxXU4tikVsYTRo3b4vrK3chcdHTAuZ6DjXTSBvknrBXQAIAJZgzu2dZKOYP8OoEuZzVOxBF3apfZAroyVuahbLnUKqU1qTDIlJtMI6uilGRfg9VBIy8ybJAGxMiGa/s1600/sookie+funeral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiMOsJGQ4_GBY7daHJxXU4tikVsYTRo3b4vrK3chcdHTAuZ6DjXTSBvknrBXQAIAJZgzu2dZKOYP8OoEuZzVOxBF3apfZAroyVuahbLnUKqU1qTDIlJtMI6uilGRfg9VBIy8ybJAGxMiGa/s1600/sookie+funeral.jpg" height="217" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>4. Terry’s Funeral: </b>Season six was, without a doubt, True
Blood’s weakest. Still, there were a few moments that tore at the viewer’s
heart – none so much as Terry’s funeral, though. Poor Terry, he never got to
truly be happy. He thought Arlene was pregnant with his child, but it turned
out to be Rene’s. He sacrificed his military buddy to save Arlene but then
couldn’t live with the guilt. Then, when he couldn’t take it anymore, he
arranged his own death after setting Arlene up financially. The most crushing
part of Terry’s death was that, right before the hit, Arlene arranged for him
to be glamored to forget his guilt. Sadly, it was too late for Terry, though.
The best moment of the funeral came when Sookie outed herself as a telepath (even
though most of the town already knew) and told Arlene that she was reading
Terry’s mind the first time he saw her and knew what he thought, and that he loved
her from the first moment he saw her.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>3. Jessica meets the sun (not quite):</b> The witch storyline
was one of my favorites in the books, but it kind <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyGlqetAKUM3jVcqNXKr-6XCX5KeZcQbvs1ORKjreunSwYy8d86cGGkddb9iYvOLpYdNRNShPnvaHHLnP8mluxJqMwUNK289Fg78XppLsz1iFiyySV6vNcQDkTQjPNMok1gUz4gebnkWLV/s1600/jessica+sun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyGlqetAKUM3jVcqNXKr-6XCX5KeZcQbvs1ORKjreunSwYy8d86cGGkddb9iYvOLpYdNRNShPnvaHHLnP8mluxJqMwUNK289Fg78XppLsz1iFiyySV6vNcQDkTQjPNMok1gUz4gebnkWLV/s1600/jessica+sun.jpg" height="181" width="320" /></a></div>
of fell flat on the small
screen. While most of the witch storyline felt forced and contrived, Marnie/Antonia
trying to force all the vampires to day walk was chilling. With Bill anchored
down by silver next to her, Jessica managed to cast off her chains, trick her
jailer, and make her way upstairs and was ready to fry. She didn’t know what was waiting for her on
the other side of the double doors -- other than sunlight that would surely
kill her. So, with Bill screaming in the basement and Jason fighting the
security guards on the lawn, Jessica opened the doors and … yeah, Jason saved
her. It was still a great moment.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgODarmxLQjNiyJZ2-IZ2YfGWqKTQoIC13lRMy2dt5pMLYHhrTlGlVcuvJP3I2943dMFzIY0Db9Fbn4IZT3HjSFH835Vvg7CKqlKG_KTUzqsfj6msT7m3EjGCPtiVeSUMAiROopHwIQQlHU/s1600/godric.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgODarmxLQjNiyJZ2-IZ2YfGWqKTQoIC13lRMy2dt5pMLYHhrTlGlVcuvJP3I2943dMFzIY0Db9Fbn4IZT3HjSFH835Vvg7CKqlKG_KTUzqsfj6msT7m3EjGCPtiVeSUMAiROopHwIQQlHU/s1600/godric.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>2. Godric meets the sun:</b> The Fellowship of the Sun was a lot
scarier in the books than it ultimately ended up being on the small screen.
And, while the overall story had highs (Jason’s takedown of Steve Newlin and
rescue of Sookie) and lows (the scattered Texas vampires, the fumbled Barry
subplot) the emotional heft of season two was reached in Dallas – not in Bon
Temps. Between Eric’s breakdown at losing his maker (Alexander Skarsgaard’s
finest work) to Sookie meeting the sun with them, Godric’s death proved that
immortality isn’t everything.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQ6BSAsOMg8tR7nXnpsjq7rCIZEaQ7oyttREeDmFIGiQJqG4sm8KnuhsDmaezz5oR8O0LDsj2gNikM1dyMIb32fs_9p1JSMxaUkSmaHJiqTn1j9SAtUDgyRJfkvj5pWC6VrFDYPfgaQML/s1600/russell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQ6BSAsOMg8tR7nXnpsjq7rCIZEaQ7oyttREeDmFIGiQJqG4sm8KnuhsDmaezz5oR8O0LDsj2gNikM1dyMIb32fs_9p1JSMxaUkSmaHJiqTn1j9SAtUDgyRJfkvj5pWC6VrFDYPfgaQML/s1600/russell.jpg" height="203" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>1. Russell Edgington delivers the news:</b> Denis O’Hare’s
delightfully obnoxious portrayal of Russell Edginton is really one of <i>True
Blood’s</i> greatest achievements. Between Russell carrying around the urn of goo that
used to be Talbot to Edgington’s sad little façade with the street hustler, O’Hare
managed to make Russell riveting. When Russell took it upon himself to start
slaughtering people on live television, though, it was both horrific and
hilarious. Russell was one of the greatest book deviations on the show – and he
helped make the middle run of <i>True Blood</i> highly entertaining.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
The final season of <i>True Blood </i>debuts on Sunday.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What do you think? What will you miss most about <i>True Blood</i>?</div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-8653313484065372682014-06-17T14:43:00.002-07:002014-06-17T14:43:31.737-07:00GENERAL HOSPITAL: The trouble with Nina<div class="MsoNormal">
In soap circles, getting Michelle Stafford to sign on the
dotted line and commit to <i>General Hospital</i> was a coup.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In my world, though, it’s a travesty.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Fohn0sOn5RhseZXGzD0tmIz68ddn6pLJM-Lg11qyK8z9dG4jn9XvKqw16ZB6w21p0lWD2wM2JIpunzAihYiCEgIBqs6XWcVTTe8Dj8jnvjHMCz62UHo4-6_errNZP0tQTaPD4XtqEeBP/s1600/general+hospital+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Fohn0sOn5RhseZXGzD0tmIz68ddn6pLJM-Lg11qyK8z9dG4jn9XvKqw16ZB6w21p0lWD2wM2JIpunzAihYiCEgIBqs6XWcVTTe8Dj8jnvjHMCz62UHo4-6_errNZP0tQTaPD4XtqEeBP/s1600/general+hospital+1.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have nothing against Stafford. I have watched <i>Young and
the Restless</i> over the years and she seemed to be having a good time as Phyllis –
a character I could take or leave at any given moment. She was never a favorite
and she was never a least favorite. She was really a non-entity to me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I know that Stafford has her fans – but she still has no
place on GH right now.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>General Hospital</i> is a soap that is overloaded with
characters. There’s too little air time and too many people to spread it
amongst.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Head Writer Ron Carlivati has his favorites – and he likes
to prop them above all others -- which doesn’t exactly help the air time
problem.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When RC first came to GH, his world revolved around Kate and
her alternate personality (a story he beat to death on <i>One Life to Live</i> for
years). After about a year of her dominating screen time, he lost interest and
killed the character off.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After that, he moved on to Sabrina and let her serve as the
central point of everything (and everyone) for <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFSmACPXwS9EWu5N9i5PEAYoO7PX426lbFLwJ2kUXm0HZKKTGN6iwp9l_ak6fMWUPXU7zqdYPyhQhDvRmS-Y1337CgxPWzUCJjfGpWRGj6T5bxhPSizOPcGIwIgO3p-ZZj_x71vbdufZZ/s1600/general+hospital+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFSmACPXwS9EWu5N9i5PEAYoO7PX426lbFLwJ2kUXm0HZKKTGN6iwp9l_ak6fMWUPXU7zqdYPyhQhDvRmS-Y1337CgxPWzUCJjfGpWRGj6T5bxhPSizOPcGIwIgO3p-ZZj_x71vbdufZZ/s1600/general+hospital+2.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
almost a year. I mean, he even
created characters that had no other purpose (Felix) than propping Sabrina. RC
seems to have lost interest in her, too, though. I’ll be curious what happens
when Sabrina’s portrayer returns from her maternity leave. Will she languish on
the backburner and then get booted? Or will she even return from her maternity
leave? It will be interesting to see when it happens.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then RC focused on Ava – and she’s still dominating air
time. I mean, Ava is a character that has no redeeming qualities. She shot
Olivia. She seduced her daughter’s husband. She killed Connie. She framed AJ.
She had crypt sex with Sonny. Now she’s holding a baby over Sonny to keep him
from killing her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And, this is just a guess mind you, I’m starting to think
that Kiki is somehow Nina’s daughter and Madeline either gave the baby to Ava
so she could hold on to a piece of Silas or Ava somehow stole the baby. That’s
just a guess, though.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_cDGUQnmuNitwyjt_WOSBB3_ANp1mlnkzUa7s14U2vcaIdsDt6wH0VScKldbxt96AX5pEa0PZ5au_GcRLMONl05wMTg14ljx_E1toLmv3nJIAaZLaJppn7fiYLBpzHY3CL9Nk_TtrZmY/s1600/general+hospital+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_cDGUQnmuNitwyjt_WOSBB3_ANp1mlnkzUa7s14U2vcaIdsDt6wH0VScKldbxt96AX5pEa0PZ5au_GcRLMONl05wMTg14ljx_E1toLmv3nJIAaZLaJppn7fiYLBpzHY3CL9Nk_TtrZmY/s1600/general+hospital+3.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, with all of this, you would think Ava is primed for a
murder mystery. Instead, she’s on four days a week then we go four weeks
between sightings of Mac, Felicia, Lucy, Scotty and Kevin.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
How is that balance?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is no way that Stafford is going to be sitting on the backburner.
None. That means RC must have promised her some significant air time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here’s the thing: I don’t care about Nina.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Not at all.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t care that she’s obviously crazy and can walk and is
playing Sam and Silas.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t care that she’s been in a coma for twenty years and
pretends that the Internet was invented in that time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t care that she seems “surprised” that Silas’ brother
was a serial killer – even after admitting that she <o:p></o:p></div>
had people look Silas up. I
don’t know about you, but I’m guessing that when you Google someone, a serial
killer connection is going to be at the top of the list.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj80F4EgJDq1OKPoqZr3uLGovd_0u2wimWLhf7mFUlwatQA1obYgdBpD06nVJm6pg5kE1lu6F2vbNawgzrf7G2ts-RvpxNm6VbFjqDiXOF9f99zxide1nYTzM0njGt2n3NtZSTFPwEdN19M/s1600/general+hospital+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj80F4EgJDq1OKPoqZr3uLGovd_0u2wimWLhf7mFUlwatQA1obYgdBpD06nVJm6pg5kE1lu6F2vbNawgzrf7G2ts-RvpxNm6VbFjqDiXOF9f99zxide1nYTzM0njGt2n3NtZSTFPwEdN19M/s1600/general+hospital+4.jpg" height="218" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t care that Nina is broke.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t care that Nina and Nathan are cousins and not
brother and sister (although she seemed to take that in stride – which makes me
think she already knew).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I just don’t care about Nina. I guess, though, it’s fair to
ask: Why should I care about Nina?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I care about AJ, and RC completely ruined his resurrection
and then killed him off at the hands of Sonny. That was a total slap in the
face to fans.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I care about Robin and RC threw her under the bus to prop
Sabrina.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I care about Anna and RC has bumbling around the police
department as Sonny and random other mobsters make her look like a fool.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why not fix those travesties instead of bringing in another
newbie that no one cares about?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quite frankly, that’s the challenge I want RC to undertake.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
What do you think? Do you care about Nina?<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-2462068080081381002014-05-28T17:36:00.001-07:002014-05-28T17:36:44.708-07:00GENERAL HOSPITAL: How to read between the lines on a soap<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyone who has spent as much time watching daytime television as I have
can easily start to guess how things are going to go on a soap.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Soap writers are never known for their subtlety. Sure, maybe
in the past, some stories managed to take viewers by surprise – like Maxie
getting BJ’s heart – but that was before the internet and spoilers sites.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>General Hospital</i> is reading like a children’s book these
days and there are a lot of anvils being dropped in <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrf2jph8LZRZHmC0Ruv_yJuD2xUHl8AeNf1aEm-qSubM9DzyijUTWSbxde4m5AMuvkSZgklHJqiJIc4iUen_gW9SFZ7MGcXwviEh0qwbiUG8kTAAJb5ORvsyOxaN0JL_QHpHPg8Me9B0EA/s1600/general+hospital+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrf2jph8LZRZHmC0Ruv_yJuD2xUHl8AeNf1aEm-qSubM9DzyijUTWSbxde4m5AMuvkSZgklHJqiJIc4iUen_gW9SFZ7MGcXwviEh0qwbiUG8kTAAJb5ORvsyOxaN0JL_QHpHPg8Me9B0EA/s1600/general+hospital+1.png" height="241" width="400" /></a></div>
certain stories.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For example: See Sonny find out Ava killed Connie. See Sonny
throw barware. See Sonny fly to his island to confront her. See Sonny threaten
to kill her. See Sonny say “you’re dead to me.” See Ava say she’s pregnant to
save herself.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Oh, yup, I just went there. Honestly, how else are they going
to save Ava? She’s killed Connie. She shot Olivia. She slept with her daughter’s
husband. She slept with her boyfriend’s father. She let AJ take the fall for
her. And that’s all in like a year.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I predict that Ava either lies about a pregnancy and has to
run around trying to get pregnant or she really is pregnant and she’s either
carrying Sonny’s child or grandchild (both scenarios skeeve me out).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was talking about this on a few message boards and
everyone started making their own predictions – which was fun. So I thought I
would throw the rest of mine out there and track them for the next six months
to see how I do.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, here we go:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVzoFJe8h85gpseWAtT3a6EKI3zHWnbFA7qP_K-G7PsYVwi4YSFXFyOuof7MKFwJ3ttmn2rwwAYNsa48a3-nTdkiFLr0RFGnMgsKUapVGn5eRUx1LmAr0zYrkFIm0DGPtpZQ1PvUgo4ivb/s1600/general+hospital+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVzoFJe8h85gpseWAtT3a6EKI3zHWnbFA7qP_K-G7PsYVwi4YSFXFyOuof7MKFwJ3ttmn2rwwAYNsa48a3-nTdkiFLr0RFGnMgsKUapVGn5eRUx1LmAr0zYrkFIm0DGPtpZQ1PvUgo4ivb/s1600/general+hospital+2.png" height="227" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>1. Baby Towel Drake (now known as Gabriel Drake Santiago)
will either die or turn out to be Carlos’ kid. </b>Right now, I’m leaning 75
percent toward the kid dying and 25 percent toward changed paternity. We all
know Ron Carlivati doesn’t do straight baby storylines – I honestly can’t think
of one that he’s done – so something is going to happen to Towel. Why do I
think he’s going to die? It’s just the constant anvils: Emma singing that
everything is going to be all right at the Nurses Ball, they gave him the name
of an angel, everyone keeps saying he's getting stronger, etc. Also, we all know that Teresa Castillo is going to be
departing on her real life maternity leave in the next two weeks or so. I have
a hard time believing that the character of Sabrina is going to leave a sick
baby to go to Puerto Rico (which is where the character is rumored to be
going). And, if she were to take the baby with her, that is an affront to the
character of Patrick who would never let his sick son leave. So, yeah, I’m
leaning towards Towel taking a turn for the worse now that he’s been named
after an angel. If that doesn’t happen, and the baby does survive, I see
finding out that Carlos is the father after all – just when Patrick has bonded
with the baby. I just don’t see this ending well for Patrick.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>2. Levi is more than he appears.</b> Let’s face it, Levi is the
most annoying character to be introduced in <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit7k1im4f_EFra_XiaJr7uOZwlfp6A6_ulCPcftu9uA5EYq1o-5htBq5b9tvHNPiKDgbEJrDeqVi67fPJp7mVL6S4VQJGFFSjzz5XS4csp2dh4ffU23SkPVYXPO_qnRYr9D-7EY9QHqmq6/s1600/general+hospital+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit7k1im4f_EFra_XiaJr7uOZwlfp6A6_ulCPcftu9uA5EYq1o-5htBq5b9tvHNPiKDgbEJrDeqVi67fPJp7mVL6S4VQJGFFSjzz5XS4csp2dh4ffU23SkPVYXPO_qnRYr9D-7EY9QHqmq6/s1600/general+hospital+3.jpg" height="296" width="400" /></a></div>
years (and that’s saying something
since we’ve had to deal with characters like Sabrina, Felix and Rafe in the
past 12 months) but he has to be more than just Maxie’s life guru. He’s showing
signs of a controlling personality. He’s Australian, which opens the door for
him to be related to the Jacks family on some level. I’m just guessing he’s not
a good guy. Since Nathan is a cop – and they’re obviously eyeing him for Maxie –
I’m going to guess that Levi is a thief or dangerous individual and Nathan is
going to have to save her.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV2OQPXbkArJQ8kBsy9V5jSlndWG8TQyDDDjo0XD0stIw2XpwOpqSzTedDYaDgP7aagc-jiySwvsxtArgh8qeM-Dz7vzbTcVzLvnzGkI3MvpUBNlzG3QEfpJYGwsVkIKS_TsrePKjtmPCg/s1600/general+hospital+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV2OQPXbkArJQ8kBsy9V5jSlndWG8TQyDDDjo0XD0stIw2XpwOpqSzTedDYaDgP7aagc-jiySwvsxtArgh8qeM-Dz7vzbTcVzLvnzGkI3MvpUBNlzG3QEfpJYGwsVkIKS_TsrePKjtmPCg/s1600/general+hospital+4.jpg" height="226" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>3. The Fluke reveal will be old school.</b> Carlivati gets a
kick out of using GH’s history – and then warping it. I’m guessing, whoever is
masquerading as Luke these days, is going to have a tie to the soap’s history.
I think the obvious choices right now are Bill Eckert, Damian Smith or Victor
Jerome. My favorite scenario is Damian Smith. We all remember that he acted
like he was in heat – and that’s definitely how Fluke is acting these days. I
have issues with Fluke being revealed as Bill Eckert – and I don’t see that
happening now that Ned has left again. If Ned were around, given his past with
Jenny, it might make some (not a lot, but some) sense for Fluke to be Bill.
Without Ned, though, that theory kind of flies out the window. Bill Eckert was
many things – but he was not a bad father. If we’re to believe that Bill wasn’t
killed, that means he abandoned Sly (maybe Sly is Levi?) for years. It’s
possible, but I’m still liking the Damian Smith theory (and since Damian had an affair with Bobbie -- that could be all kinds of gross to see play out -- but in a morbid way). As for him being
Victor? I think it’s possible, but Julian doesn’t exactly seem to have a family
bond with the man – either good or bad. So, I guess I’m going the Damian Smith
route (although I admit I could be way off on this one). Also, I might be giving RC too much credit. He might not even know who Fluke is yet -- which is entirely likely.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>4. Silas will return to Nina out of obligation – but Sam and
Silas will still be the love story.</b> Carlivati <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdq4Okn1ASTVPLR-ciWzKB0718-WMeIS9-Cjzz9wDTT901-S9weVA2FW6aN3cC54JqJ_dRdVnJP3QT_zgP0GJYXjednzeuky93hjr5JboQKHW-lOOFiN5N-h9r8hPa6Wn6D2wYDLDD7rQ/s1600/general+hospital+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdq4Okn1ASTVPLR-ciWzKB0718-WMeIS9-Cjzz9wDTT901-S9weVA2FW6aN3cC54JqJ_dRdVnJP3QT_zgP0GJYXjednzeuky93hjr5JboQKHW-lOOFiN5N-h9r8hPa6Wn6D2wYDLDD7rQ/s1600/general+hospital+5.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
clearly loves Michael Easton’s
chemistry with Kelly Monaco. Yes, Michelle Stafford is a big soap actress, but
I don’t think that Nina and Silas will ultimately be the story. Sure, she’ll go
after Silas and he’ll return to her out of guilt and obligation. I actually
look for some revelation about Kiki being Nina’s kid, too, and Madeline giving
Kiki to Ava to raise – but that’s probably farther down the road. For now, I
expect Silas to return to Nina but pine for Sam. Sam will be the martyr and let
him go. Silas and Sam won’t be able to stay away from each other, and we’ll find
out Nina may have a little of her mother in her. Quite frankly, Stafford is too
big of an actress for them not to at least attempt a chemistry test with
Maurice Benard. I see them dumping Stafford in the Carly/Franco/Sonny group
rather than the Sam/Silas group over the long haul. Short term? We’ll get Nina
and Silas story. Long term? Nina has some sort of pairing with Sonny written
all over her.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPIlh4mQ2X7RS98GPjVR4uGx006XKgxEu9u7ctp1gZDzFzfguTwpaAKT_wXG_UVoiaTQURPySbNMPT6YcnumoZY2rfJcgO2DImx_XRpzXFHp1QgKyBz-BNutnoUPmiig02-L8QaXZ6IqNR/s1600/general+hospital+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPIlh4mQ2X7RS98GPjVR4uGx006XKgxEu9u7ctp1gZDzFzfguTwpaAKT_wXG_UVoiaTQURPySbNMPT6YcnumoZY2rfJcgO2DImx_XRpzXFHp1QgKyBz-BNutnoUPmiig02-L8QaXZ6IqNR/s1600/general+hospital+6.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>5. Liz and Nikolas still won’t get an actual romance.</b> I’m
not going to lie, Liz and Nik freak me out as a couple. It’s like watching a VC
Andrews television movie – all that faux incest gets to me. Still, just looking
at the situation, I don’t see them being a couple. Liz is with Ric now, even
though Nik clearly wants her. Just a month ago Liz was professing her love to
Nik but he told her to take a hike because he loved Britt. Then Britt betrayed
him and he’s suddenly in love with Liz. Quite frankly, I see Liz deciding she
wants to be with Nik and just when they get together we’ll find out that Britt
is pregnant (something she’ll hide from Nik for a while). When he finds out,
Nik won’t trust her but the two will slowly start bonding over the baby. Then
Carlivati will make Liz insecure and have her go after Britt (we all know RC
isn’t above ruining legacy GH characters to prop his creations – just ask AJ and
Robin). And, ultimately, Nik and Britt will still be the love story. Also, I
see them making Ric crazy again in this story just because they can – which kind
of ticks me off.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-4WdQPE8PsMNT7V04rxw4dQaFQrivURvNzf6WC27IEuzYB77js9WCt8lVlnraFR-dJulklJL1D5lzet3-uoJ1Ha_QYme7nXFm4eRljXWPYbp8VLg_jXcxijcFSv9-a7qmQ8R9cSCNO_sQ/s1600/general+hospital+7.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-4WdQPE8PsMNT7V04rxw4dQaFQrivURvNzf6WC27IEuzYB77js9WCt8lVlnraFR-dJulklJL1D5lzet3-uoJ1Ha_QYme7nXFm4eRljXWPYbp8VLg_jXcxijcFSv9-a7qmQ8R9cSCNO_sQ/s1600/general+hospital+7.png" height="190" width="400" /></a><b>6. Epiphany and Monica still won’t get airtime. </b>That's pretty much a given.</div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>7. Serena Baldwin is going to swing into town with attitude.</b>
The younger set has a few holes in it. I see Scotty and Lucy’s little hellion
making her way into town and setting her sights on either Michael or Morgan. Either
way, that will be the younger quadrangle.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Okay, what do you think? Make your predictions here.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-25797877440434230232014-05-27T16:07:00.001-07:002014-05-27T16:07:31.714-07:00BOOK REVIEW: How I loved (and ultimately hated) the Divergent series<div class="MsoNormal">
I spent my Memorial Day holiday with a trio of books: <i>The
Divergent</i> series by Veronica Roth.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A lot of people had been comparing it to <i>The Hunger Games</i> –
and the movie did relatively well – so I thought it would be something I was
interested in.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9VQ-KnvHhEo30aySjSVmX8uNb7WMt6EyNlMdGG0YPLwU4Pej6N3TFoJAIttDrXBupCMCQiRGuvkZBEhRgUvoZl_cCaSfeuHIbkDoEqhVpk32dEH3dXvWscE6Y_P9urGgzXL7Bp5CcicCY/s1600/divergent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9VQ-KnvHhEo30aySjSVmX8uNb7WMt6EyNlMdGG0YPLwU4Pej6N3TFoJAIttDrXBupCMCQiRGuvkZBEhRgUvoZl_cCaSfeuHIbkDoEqhVpk32dEH3dXvWscE6Y_P9urGgzXL7Bp5CcicCY/s1600/divergent.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was. Kind of.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first book, <i>Divergent</i>, introduces us to Beatrice Prior,
a teenage girl that is about to go to her “Choosing Ceremony” to decide which
faction she will be a part of for the rest of her life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The <i>Divergen</i>t series is set in a dystopian world that shows
hints of our world – but it’s obviously different. The factions include
Abnegation (which Beatrice was born into), Dauntless, Amnity, Candor and
Erudite.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The government in this world is run by Abnegation – although
the thinkers, the Erudite, are constantly trying to find a way to get into
power. I'm kind of nutshelling all of this -- because otherwise the blog would be 10 pages long.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Just as a side note, given my love of sarcasm and bluntness,
I’m fairly certain I would have been part of the Candor group, but that’s
neither here nor there.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyway, when Beatrice goes to be tested, she finds out that
she has traits of three of these groups – which is practically unheard of – and
she soon finds out she is Divergent.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In an attempt to hide what she is – even she isn’t sure why,
at this point – she joins Dauntless on a whim and is cast into a whole other
world she could never have envisioned.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As part of the Dauntless initiation, Beatrice (now known as
Tris) is cast into one crazy antic after another. <o:p></o:p></div>
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You see, the Dauntless aren’t
scared of anything – or, at least they try to drum that fear out of their
initiatives. The Dauntless are the soldiers of this little world – and only
half of the initiates will make it through. The other half will be cast out and
become factionless.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The factionless are basically the homeless individuals in
this society. They live on the streets. They beg for food. They’re the forgotten
faces in the crowd.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tris is a waif. She’s not strong of frame, but she is strong
of heart. Her trainer is Four, a character that catches Tris’ interest right
from the beginning – even though she doesn’t believe that he could ever be
interested in her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This first <i>Divergent </i>book really is a revelation. It’s a
strong and interesting new world, and I found myself glued to each page to find
out what would happen next.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I wouldn’t call Roth a strong author. I would call her a
great storyteller, but the book is filled with short sentences and a very
matter-of-fact writing style. There were also so many punctuation errors in the
book that I found myself wanting to rip my hair out at times. Between that and
the constant changing between “blonde” and “blond” (both used incorrectly
numerous times) and the insistence on using breaths instead of the correct
breath in most instances, the writing started to wear on me. Because the story was so good,
though, I pushed it out of my mind.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At the end of the first book – turn around if you haven’t
read and don’t like spoilers – we find out that the Erudite are trying to
enslave the Dauntless to wipe out the Abnegation and take over the government.
Tris and Four – who we also find out is Divergent – manage to mount an
offensive to stop them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVhyGMBxB36mnsf1gbVm1XDlq7lcKfLjIJABHc4_IQiZDYtVpxR616OTUs8ZSdvfnaevRcpTCaY67KjrFVK5_zNBaMB0pTSxS8WG8yPBw2zbK7aRyEM2VU823GDz2I77DzofuTvvZVZYQ/s1600/allegiant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVhyGMBxB36mnsf1gbVm1XDlq7lcKfLjIJABHc4_IQiZDYtVpxR616OTUs8ZSdvfnaevRcpTCaY67KjrFVK5_zNBaMB0pTSxS8WG8yPBw2zbK7aRyEM2VU823GDz2I77DzofuTvvZVZYQ/s1600/allegiant.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tris’ mother (who has a huge backstory) dies in the offensive,
as does her father. At the time, Tris’ brother – Caleb, who had joined the
Erudite – seems to be on her side.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By the time we get to <i>Insurgent</i>, Tris and Four are an
official couple and they’re working to find a safe place to stay. Tris is
mourning the death of her parents and the fact that she had to kill a friend –
Will – who was under the mind control of the Erudite.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I started to notice the fraying of some story threads in<i>
Insurgent</i>, but it wasn’t bad enough to turn me off the story. I did tire of
Four/Tobias and his constant need to talk to Tris like she was a child, but it’s
a teen book so you kind of overlook those things.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Insurgent</i> had everything -- including betrayal by Tris' last remaining relative. It had Tris sacrificing herself to try and save her friends, Tobias putting himself in danger to try and save Tris and a new enemy -- one more terrifying than the prior government -- claiming power when the factionless took over.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This was a big cast, so the characters start to get whittled
down at a quick pace. And, by the end of <i>Insurgent</i>, an even bigger mystery is
unveiled. It seems that the city is really Chicago. It’s a Chicago of the
future – but it’s still Chicago. Not only is it Chicago, but the people inside
of the city were essentially placed there as a big experiment.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was a pretty interesting cliffhanger. Sure, I had some
questions, but I thought those would be answered in <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFTjAnUTCQmQsgXKORrw9m9bMzhbIZ6QoRpBTmSvjqf49btOwQ7eOIr3K8sU7Qj9v7NU38mByHPolMRtjtgjT_Lt03uqAx3dNistbo4tCmm7u079yIAcWIQV-FrJTJmHc-7hhz4CWwX_5/s1600/div1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFTjAnUTCQmQsgXKORrw9m9bMzhbIZ6QoRpBTmSvjqf49btOwQ7eOIr3K8sU7Qj9v7NU38mByHPolMRtjtgjT_Lt03uqAx3dNistbo4tCmm7u079yIAcWIQV-FrJTJmHc-7hhz4CWwX_5/s1600/div1.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
the third book. I was
wrong.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In <i>Allegiant</i>, things pretty much went to crap (in both the fictional world and the narrative).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The books, which had strictly been written from Tris’
point-of-view before, were now being told by Tris and Tobias. That should have
been a hint how things would end – but it was also a plot device that didn’t
quite work.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The big problem was that, apparently, Tris and Tobias
thought in the exact same manner. If you weren’t paying attention, their voices
were so similar you would have to return to the beginning of the chapter and
double check who was telling the story at this point. Either Tris is really
masculine or Tobias is really feminine – and given the way he acted in the
third book, I’m guessing that Tobias was a closeted 14-year-old girl.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The problems facing the couple seemed really contrived. And,
when the duo left with some friends to see what the “real world” looked like,
the books turned into a diatribe on human nature.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDO4zB1J7FiPVYahguKrVI6UeWt7brrStLpWCCCn1UH1FSTypzmETiMjHwKmm3cAhA0IGacsPCSMlCghW-PeQUwpcg9oCMPJtrtu4aYvdacOCSBo1S6OdT3g0I7_VFDcsUTkuSHDVTqV-/s1600/div3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDO4zB1J7FiPVYahguKrVI6UeWt7brrStLpWCCCn1UH1FSTypzmETiMjHwKmm3cAhA0IGacsPCSMlCghW-PeQUwpcg9oCMPJtrtu4aYvdacOCSBo1S6OdT3g0I7_VFDcsUTkuSHDVTqV-/s1600/div3.jpg" height="250" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I like it when a book has a message, but Roth’s message in
these books was really heavy-handed. Essentially, whoever got in power in these
books became megalomaniacs. It got old after the fourth or fifth time.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When you finally get to the finale, we’re supposed to
believe that Tris would allow her brother to die when there’s a possibility
that Tris could survive the scenario. Tobias leaves Tris to go on his mission,
never once considering that she would sacrifice herself for Caleb. That just
makes Tobias an idiot and so far from the character we were introduced to in <i>Divergent</i> that
it’s a little bit of an insult.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t believe you have to have a happy ending to have a good book. I believe,
when it moves the story <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo2gmo3MaziK1fKfimnc6E278UIu56ckLTHyLC8_EwU10a4FskNmT7QMJJrnm9sCrXww7NWNafhVWoiTdx_3kER04p8Mn5gLHFScmoHZOQzCEFKnD7U8k4qEX4jBTeywckvlI13P1FUlzR/s1600/div2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo2gmo3MaziK1fKfimnc6E278UIu56ckLTHyLC8_EwU10a4FskNmT7QMJJrnm9sCrXww7NWNafhVWoiTdx_3kER04p8Mn5gLHFScmoHZOQzCEFKnD7U8k4qEX4jBTeywckvlI13P1FUlzR/s1600/div2.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></a></div>
forward or is important to the outcome of a story, that
killing a main character is perfectly acceptable. The problem is, Tris’ death
seems like a contrived after-thought. I mean, why did she have die? The group
never once tried to think of another scenario to save their city. And, by the
time she does die, it’s not really for some greater good. She’s just gone.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When it comes down to it, I think comparing this series to
<i>The Hunger Games</i> (and even Harry Potter in some places) is disingenuous. The
stories were nowhere near as well written as either of those series and the emotional
weight carried by them is just a pipe dream in <i>Divergent</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVCE3za8IzjjBv_kTN_x1iBTpdFbt8AF13eoi3lUpvhVMxXrda4_vVbJLM4D2LVfy1EeyKiTDtu0LcurtRLeP0J9UCetM5TfqzbCdsKXjmgLWuV7gTqZD0gwJM_qMtOMolKaOBBkLwoZm/s1600/div+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVCE3za8IzjjBv_kTN_x1iBTpdFbt8AF13eoi3lUpvhVMxXrda4_vVbJLM4D2LVfy1EeyKiTDtu0LcurtRLeP0J9UCetM5TfqzbCdsKXjmgLWuV7gTqZD0gwJM_qMtOMolKaOBBkLwoZm/s1600/div+4.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the end, <i>Divergent</i> is all about sacrifice – which is a
nice message. Unfortunately, it ultimately becomes about sacrifice just for
sacrifice’s sake. Tris doesn’t sacrifice herself to save the world, she
sacrifices herself to be the hero. That’s a very different thing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In <i>The Hunger Games</i>, Katniss is willing to fight – and ultimately
die – for what she believes in. She’s willing to put herself on the line to
save her family. She doesn’t do it for misguided honor. It’s just who she is.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In Harry Potter, Harry is willing to sacrifice himself at
the end to save his friends. He doesn’t do it knowing they will survive. He
does it because he knows that the only way Voldemort can be killed is if Harry
dies (him being that extra horcrux and all). Harry doesn’t go to the woods to
sacrifice himself just to sacrifice himself. He does it to give his friends a
fighting chance – because it’s the only thing he can do.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tris could have done a lot of different things. She could
have approached David to get the truth. She could have let Caleb sacrifice
himself. She could have evacuated people from the city. It’s like the author
just wanted to go for a “gutsy” end – it didn’t matter if the facts of the book
got in her way.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As for the story in the final book, that’s a mess, too. There’s
a lot of retconning going on – and I’m never a fan of that. I also think that
most fans guessed <i>The Truman Show</i> aspect of it at the end of the second book.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the end, I can say that I loved <i>Divergent</i> and would give
it five stars. I would say I liked <i>Insurgent</i> and would give it three and a half
stars. I can say I wish I had never read <i>Allegiant</i> and give that book two
stars.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the grand scheme of things, the best thing I can say
about Tris is that she’s a better heroine than Bella Swan (although that’s not
saying much).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What do you think? Does <i>Allegiant</i> ruin the <i>Divergent</i>
trilogy?<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-544496102514023292.post-84939530763573413352014-05-20T17:48:00.005-07:002014-05-20T17:48:50.061-07:00TELEVISION: Why NBC’s Hannibal is too delicious to pass up<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m fairly certain I never thought a show about cannibalism
would be in my top ten for the year – but NBC’s <i>Hannibal</i> has proven me wrong.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwY-ajppqX4uPvD8H-9VDVJ4YOChoCPmv3BYHH4Lxm2ZzwaBldII5k7JEo7ihEJJBtu_uWVq792mjhQ1Ji4_l-liWgIYcBFYXatX4r9QVoIz1nvkJ4VOKiwwIS6nN9WKDEl2i0OfwJBK2N/s1600/hannibal+1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwY-ajppqX4uPvD8H-9VDVJ4YOChoCPmv3BYHH4Lxm2ZzwaBldII5k7JEo7ihEJJBtu_uWVq792mjhQ1Ji4_l-liWgIYcBFYXatX4r9QVoIz1nvkJ4VOKiwwIS6nN9WKDEl2i0OfwJBK2N/s1600/hannibal+1.jpeg" height="187" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The show, which finishes up its second season Friday night,
is such a profound mixture of visual stimulation and psychological warfare, it’s
impossible to look away.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m not particularly happy with NBC these days – the cancellation
of <i>Revolution</i> has crushed a little bit of my spirit – but I am profoundly
thankful to the network for ordering up a third season of the macabre <i>Hannibal</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I know a lot of people are uncomfortable watching the show, saying it's too disturbing to watch.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Between the gore and the long musical interludes that show
Hannibal cooking up something new (which is <i>Hannibal</i> is a show that is really hard to watch. It’s really hard to look away, though, too.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiISEt_icCiZhBbKX3iTRgoP-3Sn0UzsBKHLbM69sdRu28jPdsszELGClB1amzFwX67KmCJpfO6FKrdyblECK6ebLJkgAa1nE8yNk9NbPHjKUsR8VksEKXPzwJ8nsFFs7IIMjMMeEYgpiBe/s1600/hannibal+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiISEt_icCiZhBbKX3iTRgoP-3Sn0UzsBKHLbM69sdRu28jPdsszELGClB1amzFwX67KmCJpfO6FKrdyblECK6ebLJkgAa1nE8yNk9NbPHjKUsR8VksEKXPzwJ8nsFFs7IIMjMMeEYgpiBe/s1600/hannibal+2.jpg" height="160" width="320" /></a></div>
usually a portion of his latest
victim) -- <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Hannibal</i> had a daunting task ahead of it when it was
launched last year. Most fans were familiar with the series of books by Thomas
Harris – and even more familiar with the ultra-popular movies starring Sir
Anthony Hopkins as the titular cannibal who abhors rudeness.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, when a relatively unknown actor named Mads Mikkelson was
announced as the new antihero, fans were understandably concerned.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We had no reason to be. Hannibal, in Mikkelson’s capable
hands, has become a sociopathic killer with a narcissistic bent and a psychopathic
penchant for purposely hurting those around him. He’s still fun to root for –
which is a credit to Mikkelson.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivqVwTxT7jC409U0tBEKz8_x3Ce12YnDMAIAFhDbtg1us20FR18ZZeibwZObQZEDISyCqr3goCtc7z9JT71k5Df_ueAMKsrZrqTex6RPwZ0w_b9oyj3FtDRS1asKQGmBiDib8YtQc13awX/s1600/hannibal+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivqVwTxT7jC409U0tBEKz8_x3Ce12YnDMAIAFhDbtg1us20FR18ZZeibwZObQZEDISyCqr3goCtc7z9JT71k5Df_ueAMKsrZrqTex6RPwZ0w_b9oyj3FtDRS1asKQGmBiDib8YtQc13awX/s1600/hannibal+3.JPG" height="202" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This version of Hannibal is the ultimate game player -- only you don't want to be selected to play his games.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
His foil, Will Graham, is played by the mesmerizing Hugh
Dancy. Dancy has a thankless role as the guy that will ultimately bring
Hannibal down because fans are torn about whether or not they want that to
actually happen.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rounding out the cast is the stalwart Lawrence Fishburne as
Jack Crawford. Fishburne lends a certain level of credibility to a show that
can sometimes seem over-the-top.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The truth is, believing that there are that many creative
serial killers roaming around at one time is a little hard.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-hUVPsoDlc8xrTBWFgHfusnlmbsqVRufgvoeTsTI5AJEOxIEf1-I938Db1oCQE7SEIG8RgxjA0ZhBx57tCBdPc05jystj9WyxvDN9NqYFQaidl0nW6bymOMq9-67hvp3uVlRAmiu7x9JF/s1600/hannibal+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-hUVPsoDlc8xrTBWFgHfusnlmbsqVRufgvoeTsTI5AJEOxIEf1-I938Db1oCQE7SEIG8RgxjA0ZhBx57tCBdPc05jystj9WyxvDN9NqYFQaidl0nW6bymOMq9-67hvp3uVlRAmiu7x9JF/s1600/hannibal+4.png" height="320" width="313" /></a></div>
Besides Hannibal,
we’ve dealt with a music teacher who tried to play the vocal chords of dead
musicians, a killer that built a sand temple of body parts, a man hunting women
(and eating them) that looked like his daughter, a band of sociopathic kids and
a incarcerated serial killer that knows the truth about Hannibal’s actions and
hides it.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As a side fun fact, that serial killer died this season –
but only after Hannibal made him dine on his own legs.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Hannibal</i> isn’t perfect. Sometimes he seems omnipotent, which
detracts a little from the narrative. And, I’m not going to lie, the women on
this show are often marginalized. Beverly found out the truth and was gutted
and put on display, Freddie is a typical tabloid hag, Alana has been warned
repeatedly that Hannibal is dangerous and refuses to listen and Miriam was
brainwashed into killing an innocent man (and we haven’t seen her since).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Still, though, there’s something magical about the show. It’s
like a train wreck, only you can’t look away.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDpBEhaWAUhoX8pMWdyo0qB1bJL_i6AZHyPNi4IcFJYAR6SeKD1DHob_kYYFdg0jMyFhjndLHqErhp6aoLO7X0Rx5YfymARCAPsb6odDp6-Ao8_Bm71R3S9-LEOOIJednUxpU1sMN0ykT-/s1600/hannibal+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDpBEhaWAUhoX8pMWdyo0qB1bJL_i6AZHyPNi4IcFJYAR6SeKD1DHob_kYYFdg0jMyFhjndLHqErhp6aoLO7X0Rx5YfymARCAPsb6odDp6-Ao8_Bm71R3S9-LEOOIJednUxpU1sMN0ykT-/s1600/hannibal+5.jpg" height="161" width="320" /></a></div>
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The addition of Michael Pitt as Mason Verger has also been a
stroke of genius. Fans of the series knew what Hannibal did to Mason – drugging
him up and convincing him to cut up his own face and feed it to dogs – but seeing
it (versus hearing about it) was so disturbing last week that it haunted my
dreams for a night.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A scene like that should have been hard to sell. It wasn’t,
though, and that’s because the cast is both solid and committed. They believe
their roles, so they realistically embody them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In Friday’s season finale, Will and Hannibal’s deadly game
is going to come to a head. We know, eventually, that Hannibal is going to get
caught.<o:p></o:p></div>
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All that we’re left with right now are the specifics. And I,
for one, can’t wait.<o:p></o:p></div>
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What do you think? Do you enjoy <i>Hannibal</i>?<o:p></o:p></div>
Amanda Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697908121409363973noreply@blogger.com0