Review: Supernatural 'Pac Man Fever'

After a mini hiatus, Supernatural is back with a super solid filler episode with a high count of hugs. Not many shows in its eighth season can still kickass. Supernatural takes advantage of the opportunity to connect past elements and stories together, while introducing new things and characters to excite us. One of these things is Charlie. Supernatural rarely uses the same song twice, unless it's Carry On Wayward Son. How often do we get a happy song to accompany a feel-good episode with the sweetest hug? Thanks to 'Her Highness' Charlie (guest star Felicia Day), even in the darkest hours, a moment of sweetness is not impossible. 

8.20 Pac Man Fever is the sweetest and most adorable episode. I don't think I have used those words before to describe an overall episode. It was such a great written episode by Robbie Thompson and a well directed episode by Robert Singer. Robbie also wrote all Felicia Day's episodes -- The Girl with the Dungeons and Dragons Tattoo and LARP and the Real Girl. So good! Just so good! 

There are many things I love about this episode. Where to begin? I think Charlie's personality breaks pattern. Charlie is different from people Dean and Sam have met before, including hunters and non hunters. Charlie isn't a hunter, she is a civilian, a geek and she is into LARPing. Her social profile almost doesn't belong to the supernatural world. But there are some similarities between Charlie and the Winchester brothers, as presented in this episode -- Charlie's mum was taken away from her when she was little, she blamed herself, she got into trouble, she has been on the run forever, and her aliases were as good as Dean's and Sam's. 

I think Charlie has raised to the challenge before and she's done it again in this episode. If Pac Man Fever indicates anything, I am sold as to why she is one of the best people to help Dean and Sam right now -- she is tech savvy, she doesn't have an agenda, she is smart and she is resourceful. She is a Woman of Letters!

What's interesting to me is that Charlie, in a way, presents normality. I love that Charlie is written as a friend and as a sister figure. Dean and Sam are obsessed with saving the world and people from supernatural crap. But every now and then, it's sweet to see how they deal with other people -- the way they accept Garth, worry about Kevin and care about Charlie. Episodes like Pac Man Fever definitely highlights a different quality of the Winchesters which differentiates themselves from other hunters. I also love the fact that Charlie has read the Supernatural books by Carver Edlund and she has so much faith in Dean and Sam. 

I think the onscreen chemistry between Jensen and Felicia is getting better! Last time when Dean was putting his knight costume on in LARP and the Real Girl, he gave Charlie the full Wiki on what's been happening. In this episode, while Charlie had a montage of wardrobe change, Dean did the same thing and told her stuff. I think it was great to see Dean actually got a chance to 'chat' to a friend about their supernatural crap. It's not like Dean has many friends that he can talk to. I just love the chemistry between Dean and Charlie! The scene where Dean and Charlie had a 'I-love-you-I-know' Star Wars moment, that's my favourite scene!!!

I think this is a very Dean POV centric episode. It's like Dean having a bird eye view of things. Dean saw how things turned out. He helped Charlie to overcome her fear and help her to find clarity in her mother's situation. Through the 'letting things go' theme, it enlightened Dean about his relationship with Sam. Dean being Dean, of course he wanted to 'save' his little brother, look after him -- "I may not be able to carry the burden that comes with these trials, but I can carry you." The theme of 'letting things go' means different things to Charlie and Dean. Charlie made a difficult decision to let go of her mother. This experience reminded Dean that the only thing that would make Sam better was to find the prophet and finish the last trial. Dean wasn't pissed at Sam. Sam thought he was in trouble and attempted to justify why he was out there working a case, when Dean specifically told him not to. But I am glad Sam helped, they were stronger as a team and hunting has always been a two people job. Thank you Robbie Thompson for showing us the sweet Dean, who gave many hugs to many people in this season, and I think that's a great character progress. Dean just gave Sam a hug, and then he told him, "let's find the prophet'. There is no getting better until the trial is completed.

This season reminds me how much crap Sam's been through. We know how it went down with the whole Lucifer hallucination storyarc. Sam had a complete breakdown and went to the mental hospital. It was painful for Sam, and it was painful for Dean to see his little brother like this. I think Sam has been through a lot, and I mean a lot! From the moment he found out about being one of the special children' to drinking demon blood; from being locked up in hell with Lucifer and Michael to coming back soulless, and then the 'wall' crumbled. I get why he just wanted a normal life. Now he is back, he is going through the trials and he is hurting again. I really feel his pain, my heart really breaks for Sam. I hate to see him suffer, again! Dean feels that same, every bloody year his little brother has some crap going on with him and it breaks his heart to see his little brother suffers, and it kills Dean not to be able to save Sam. 

When will they stop caring for each other? NEVER! I think that's why Supernatural is so good to watch because of the brother relationship. On one hand, it's different from the past because they're more mature now. On the other hand, it remains the same because they are still Dean and Sam, the big brother and the little brother.

A few other things that I love:

Dean in uniform -- Seriously! Give Jensen Ackles a bathrobe and he can still look good in it. SUPER HOT! Wait… what? The whole uniform look reminds me of Captain America/ Captain Steve Rogers. I will never get tired of this, so sue me!

The video game -- I was waiting for a Resident Evil Leon Kennedy reference, because of some hot Jensen related casting rumour about this a few years back.

The montage -- Walking on Sunshine is a signature song for Charlie. That scene was awesome! It weirdly reminded me of Natalie Portman in Leon.

Pac Man Reference -- I played Pac Man before on my cousin's thing, but I was never a gamer. But I can see some fans are happy to see that reference. It's also a treat for Felicia Day's fans because she was a gamer. Nice!

Something completely random -- Is it just me that I want to see Wil Wheaton on the show? I just had a moment.

MoL HQ -- It's official. It's HOME for the boys! I just love the idea the boys have a home now. I know Kripke used to say, the Impala is home for the boys. It still is, but the idea of having a HQ as a home where they can use the resources and to regroup. The MoL bunker as their home is a welcoming idea. And I love it! You know I do! I just LOVE IT! SO MUCH!!

Sam's hair -- Like… OMG! Too cute!!!! Thank you Sam! Thank you Jared. I had a great laugh. And Sam wasn't able to catch the beer from Dean was hilarious. Sorry Sam, I know you're hurting but you gotta laugh a little sometimes.

Dean in uniform -- Wait a second! Have I mentioned how much I love Dean in uniform?  

Pac Mac Fever is packed with stuff and food for thoughts. This is the kind of filler episode that audience and Dean and Sam need before the final trial. The final three episodes are here! Brace yourself for an emotional ride! I see nothing but epicness!

Next episode is 8.21: The Great Escapist

When Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) receive a distressing video message from Kevin Tran (guest star Osric Chau), they set about trying to uncover the Third Trial. The boys make a discovery that sends them to a casino in Colorado, to find a mysterious recluse (guest star Curtis Armstrong) who may be able to fill in the holes in Kevin's research. Meanwhile, Crowley (guest star Mark Sheppard) is on a winning streak. Castiel (Misha Collins) tries to elude Naomi (guest star Amanda Tapping) and the angels hunting him.

Supernatural Season 8: The Final Three - Pics, Descriptions and My Two Cents

Surely, the Supernatural books by Carver Edlund are in this pile!

The final three episodes of season eight of Supernatural are just around the corner. I love May, but I also hate it. I know I'll get an awesome finale, but I also hate the thought of going into a long hiatus -- no new Supernatural until September/October. That's a long time! 

As per usual, I'll go into lockdown in the final week of Supernatural. For now, I can enjoy the below information regarding The Great Escapist, Clip Show and Sacrifice. 

Here is description, the promo and preview clip for 8.21 The Great Escapist, airs May 1.

FEELING LUCKY TONIGHT? – When Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) receive a distressing video message from Kevin Tran (guest star Osric Chau), they set about trying to uncover the Third Trial. The boys make a discovery that sends them to a casino in Colorado, to find a mysterious recluse (guest star Curtis Armstrong) who may be able to fill in the holes in Kevin’s research. Meanwhile, Crowley (guest star Mark Sheppard) is on a winning streak. Castiel (Misha Collins) tries to elude Naomi (guest star Amanda Tapping) and the angels hunting him. Robert Duncan McNeill directed the episode written by Ben Edlund. Source: KSiteTV





My thoughts: Poor Sammy! Just eat something, you gotta eat! Both Sam and Dean can be very stubborn. It's an interesting thing to watch, but it is also frustrating! JUST EAT SOMETHING. 

Regarding Metatron, do you think he's read all the Supernatural books by Carver Edlund? I am so intrigued by this new character already! I want to know why he went into hiding in a human vessel; what's with all the books; what's with the riffle; does he has any angel power; does he know where God is; how much does he know about the Winchesters and everything they've done? I am already obsessed with this character, just like I am obsessed with Samuel Colt! BRING IT!

Here's the description for 8.22 Clip Show, airs May 8.

FAMILIAR FACES RETURN AS THE THIRD TRIAL NEARS — Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) reunite with Castiel (Misha Collins).  Digging through the Men of Letters’ files, they stumble upon an undiscovered film which could be the key to the third trial. Metatron (guest star Curtis Armstrong) enlists Cass to mull over problems at home.  Meanwhile, Crowley (guest star Mark Sheppard) digs into Sam and Dean’s past. Taylor Cole, Graham Wardle, and Cindy Busby also guest star. Thomas J. Wright directed the episode written by Andrew Dabb. Source and full set of promo pics: KSiteTV

My thoughts: I am interested to see the impact of all these guest star characters on Sam in this episode. They weren't exactly major, but I am sure there is something there. (Sorry, this is a bit redundant.) Back in season four, in When The Levee Breaks we see little Sammy (Colin Ford) and Mary Winchester (Samantha Smith) in Sam's hallucination, and we've seen Jess popped up a few times (as herself and Lucifer), so, on paper, I am not sure the impact of Taylor Cole, Graham Wardle, and Cindy Busby may have on Sam. Then again, this episode's title is Clip Show, so perhaps it's just kinda clipy.

Seeing Dean, Sam and Castiel in the Men of Letters HQ is... YEAH BABY! I wonder if Castiel has heard of the MoL? Thoughts?

Here is the description for the season eight finale 8.23 -- Sacrifice -- airs May 15.

WHAT MUST SAM, DEAN AND CASTIEL SACRIFICE TO FOREVER SEAL HELL? — With Crowley (guest star Mark Sheppard) poised to undo all the good they’ve ever done as hunters, Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) find themselves cornered.  But with Kevin’s (guest star Osric Chau) help, the Winchester brothers bound into one last play against The Demon King. Metatron (guest star Curtis Armstrong) initiates a plan with Castiel (Misha Collins) to take on Naomi (guest star Amanda Tapping) and the bureaucracy of Heaven. Alaina Huffman and Kim Rhodes also guest star. Phil Sgriccia directed the episode written by Jeremy Carver. Source: KSiteTV

My thoughts: Jeremy Carver pens!! YES YES YES YES YES! That's all I'll say for now! I expect a cliffhanger. Any season finales of Supernatural has a great cliffhanger. My favorite one, the one that killed me completely, is season three.. DEAN WENT TO HELL!

Star Trek - Australian Premier

J.J Abrams is in Australia! OH MY GOD! Do you know how exciting this is? I still cannot process it. I cannot!

Star Trek: Into Darkness premiered in Sydney, Australia last night with cast -- Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto and Karl Urban. Here are some press shots and redcarpet photos. Source: JustJared and JustJared

The cast and JJ took time for a photo session just outside the Park Hyatt Hotel in Sydney. NICE! What a glorious day!! The premier took place at Event Cinemas on George Street.

SWOON!!! 

So, last night, I watched Star Trek twice. One without commentary, one with it. It's awesome! I cannot wait! 

But Iron Man III. I'll be watching it this week when it opens in Australia. A review is imperative! Watch this space.

Supernatural Returns - Pac Man Fever

Life does suck big time whenever Supernatural is on hiatus. But thank goodness my life is back in supernatural order! Supernatural returns this week (April, 24) with all new episodes, Pac Man Fever.

DEAN INTRODUCES CHARLIE TO CHEAP PANTSUITS — Concerned about the physical toll the second trial took on Sam (Jared Padalecki), Dean (Jensen Ackles) benches his brother from hunting until he heals up. So, when geektastic hacker Charlie (guest star Felicia Day) stumbles upon a case and finds the boys, Dean decides it’s time to teach Charlie how to be a hunter-in-training. While happy to see 'her highness', the boys suspect Charlie is hiding something; a secret that could get her killed. Robert Singer directed the episode written by Robbie Thompson. Source: KSiteTV 

Here is the preview clip for the episode. Charlie is AWESOME! I hope she sticks around! She is perfect to be the Chloe O'Brien of the MoL Bunker!!

[Update] Australian Viewers: ARROW on Channel Nine

[April 23, 2013]

So, I saw Channel Nine advertising Arrow last night during The Voice. It said Arrow is coming 'Wednesday week' after The Voice. So there you go! Why is it so hard to just say the DATE? May be it's a curse? What's with this 'Wednesday week' crap? 

Why is Channel Nine using the image of the Bank of China building in Hong Kong on the landing page of Arrow is beyond me! I get the whole Island thing is set in Lian Yu, somewhere in North China Sea, but then again...[I must not be rude...]

What's happening with The Following then? Not that I care, but it's going to be on the Tuesday slot.

Channel Nine better stick to the show. I hate to see Arrow being treated badly by the network.

[April 17, 2013]

I am very confused. Despite the announcement of the Australian premier date for Arrow on the Channel Nine Facebook page, it didn't happen last night! 

I am very confused. Today, when I looked at their Facebook page, fans are asking why. According to some comment, TV Guide actually advertised for time slot for Arrow too. But instead of airing Arrow, Channel Nine aired The Following. 

I am very confused. Why people in charge still have a job, is beyond me. Arrow deserves to be in a better network that respect viewers and actually try to promo their shows and stick to it, like Eleven.

[April 8, 2013]

No kidding. This is bad marketing. If the show is not ready to be aired for whatever reasons, don't advertise it. It's been six months since Channel Nine started advertising Arrow -- from one of the 'Must see TV dramas for 2013' to 'After Easter'. I saw the sneak peek last night on Channel Nine, I was excited but then I told my friends "they are not going to announce the date". My friends are not genre shows viewers, but they too notice the promo has been going on forever, they agree it looks like a great show. What's the hold up? 

It's like you've been engaged forever but never got married. Eventually you question the commitment and got pissed off and call off the engagement. Everything goes south!

I know how teasers work, but this is INSANE! Six months of promoting the show but without airing it, is just plain crazy. My point is, Channel Nine doesn't have to promo the show at all until they now for sure when to air it. One or two months top, may be, but six months? They are toying with their viewers. Eventually nobody cares or watches the show and then the network executives would say "well, that was a waste of money".

The network is doing great in promoting the show on TV (great clips) and on the web. It gets people excited for six months. Viewers are so intrigued about the show, they get to the point where they cannot wait and download it elsewhere on the internet. Good job for encouraging illegal download! 

I just read the Channel Nine Facebook page, silly really. It seems to me that Channel Nine just announced the air date while replying a comment on Facebook. It's the classic "oh btw.. yeah, it premiers on April 16 at 8:30pm." WHY WOULD YOU ANNOUNCE THE AIR DATE ON FACEBOOK LIKE THIS? Wow! Nothing makes sense to me anymore. And I shouldn't be the one who blog about the premier date! This marketing strategy is frustrating! You've been doing great promo, make the most of it and announce it probably!

Anyway, the air date is Tuesday, April 16 at 8.30pm, according to the Channel Nine Facebook page.

Game of Thrones 'And Now His Watch Has Ended' - A Review [or something like that]

  

"I am Daenerys Stormborn of House Targaryen, of the blood of Old Valyria. Valyrian is my mother-tongue... Dumb ass!" 

I could not stand Kraznys mo Nakloz! I don't remember hating him this much when I read the book. DUMB ASS! He was one stupid dumb ass who was dumb and stupid. This scene was more epic than the book in my opinion. As you know, books have a lot of details, so it is super amazing to me that the TV series gave me the goosebumps I did not expect to get. I cannot describe how much I LOVE THIS SCENE!

Daenerys delivered one of the most epic scenes of the entire series so far -- the birth of the Dragons and the Battle of the Blackwater being the others. Viewers will forever remember how Daenerys destroyed Kraznys and commanded her army in And Now His Watch Has Ended -- 'The Daenerys March' was as epic as Lord of the Rings! An army of unsullied was led by Daenerys Stormborn, with her Queen's Guards behind her and her dragons flying over them. On an epic scale of ten, it was a ten out of ten in my opinion.

This was a life-changing moment for Daenerys as a true Targaryen, as a Leader and as a Queen, who possessed a unique leadership style and disliked the concept of 'slavery'. I don't think there has been a life-changing moment for Daenerys since the season one finale. She is ready to sit on the Iron Throne! 

Daenerys is one of my favorite characters because I think she has the most interesting backstory. Her character is great in the book, but I think the TV series presents her character with exceptional clarity, strength and power. You see it, you feel it. And Now His Watch Has Ended has the finest moments so far for the show and for Daenerys Stormborn. Emilia Clarke could so get a Golden Globe or Emmys nomination from this scene alone.

GHD and hot rollers are essential items in Daenery's travel bag.

When Daenerys mounted the white horse and addressed the unsullied, her manner resonated Khal Drogo's commending style. There is no doubt she misses him and her whole life is about learning to commend and listen to her own voice. When Daenerys was talking to Kraznys, she was channelling her inner Drogo -- this was what her Sun and Stars would do. This part of Daenerys' story totally exceeds my expectation! 

I know I have a thing about the TV series not doing anything about Daenerys' prophesies (which I love!). I wonder how Daenerys will be continuously be written and developed on the show. I am so intrigued I cannot even process it right now.

Westeros Kings and Queens have no bloody idea who's coming for them! Absolutely NO IDEA!

One other thought: I feel completely sorry for Jaime and Theon. What goes around, comes around? I almost wanted to fast-forward all the Theon's scenes, because I find it so hard to read his chapters and his torture. I thought if I could survive 24, I could survive Theon, but this is on a completely separate level. And yes, sorry Theon, only if you knew before!

Supernatural 'Clip Show' - Description

Not long to go to the season finale, but I don't want this season to end! Here is the description for episode 8.22 Clip Show.

FAMILIAR FACES RETURN AS THE THIRD TRIAL NEARS — Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) reunite with Castiel (Misha Collins). Digging through the Men of Letters’ files, they stumble upon an undiscovered film which could be the key to the third trial. Metatron (guest star Curtis Armstrong) enlists Cass to mull over problems at home.  Meanwhile, Crowley (guest star Mark Sheppard) digs into Sam and Dean’s past. Taylor Cole, Graham Wardle, and Cindy Busby also guest star. Thomas J. Wright directed the episode written by Andrew Dabb. Source: KSiteTV

So, the other guest stars for this episode include Graham Wardle, who appeared in Wendigo, and Cindy Busby who appeared in Shut Up, Dr Phil. Very interesting in seeing how things will play out. They are not major big name guest stars, but their characters were significant in these episodes as victims. Read the full article on the guest stars on Zap2It

Supernatural: Character Spoilers

If you haven't heard, a number of characters will return to Supernatural -- including Sarah Blake (Taylor Cole), who we saw in Provenance in season one; Alaina Huffman's Abaddon who appeared in one of my favorite episodes this season, As Time Goes By; and according to Jeremy Carver's interview with EW, at least one more character who will come from even earlier in the show’s history. 

OK.. Here is my two cents:

I hardly rewatch Provenance and to be completely honest, I don't really care so much about Sarah's return. For now anyway. It's like saying, Martin returns.. yay! Ah.. not really. 

But the second character spoiler is more than awesome! Abaddon is tied to the mytho of Men of Letters, and you know how much I am obsessed with MoL! Yes, the demon appeared to be dead, her head got chopped of and all, but what do I know?! For her to appear in the season finale, it gets me so excited and crazy right now!

What's even more exciting and crazy, according to the EW's interview with Jeremy Carver, there is another character who will come back from further than Sarah. Who would this be? Jess? John? Mary? Ed and Harry? Meg? Missouri? The question is -- how significant is this unknown returning character? 

What do you think? Right now, I wish it was John Winchester as in Jeffrey Dean Morgan or
Missouri.

Source: SpoilerTV and EW 

Spoiler Pics: Supernatural's New Angel, Metatron

This is what I've been waiting for. YES! I'll reserve my thoughts and stuff when I know more about the new angel, Metatron. There has been a report about the possibility of Metatron being a recurring character in season nine. I am very interested in seeing this new angel. Very! He will appear in episodes 8.21, 8.22 and 8.23. This better be awesome!

Ben Edlund is very great at creating and writing many things. One of the things he is good at is to set the pace and story for future episodes. He is very good at keeping existing elements but he is also very good at adding bits and pieces that will serve a greater good in the near future. Example: Season seven's Reading Is Fundamental. This episode has single-handedly paved the way for future seasons. His writing is very skillful and I for one would love to live inside his brain for one day.

Anyway, TVLine has released some photos of the episode 8.21 The Great Escapist, which airs on May 1. 

FEELING LUCKY TONIGHT? — When Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) receive a distressing video message from Kevin Tran (guest star Osric Chau), they set about trying to uncover the Third Trial. The boys make a discovery that sends them to a casino in Colorado, to find a mysterious recluse (guest star Curtis Armstrong) who may be able to fill in the holes in Kevin’s research. Meanwhile, Crowley (guest star Mark Sheppard) is on a winning streak. Castiel (Misha Collins) tries to elude Naomi (guest star Amanda Tapping) and the angels hunting him. Robert Duncan McNeill directed the episode written by Ben Edlund. Source: KSiteTV

Supernatural: Charlie and Dean Promo Pics (Adorable!)

I can't wait. I say this every week, but I can't wait! A week without Supernatural is a week of crap. 

Here is the first look of Charlie with Sam and Dean in the upcoming episode, Pac Man Fever. Source: KSiteTV

ADORABLE!!! OH I WANT A HUG LIKE THIS!!!! 

KSiteTV has a set of ten promo pics. Go there NOW! OMG OMG OMG!!

SWOON!! Notice Dean has two different shirts in these photos. Will Charlie survive the game? Are these the Hello or Goodbye photos?

Description: Supernatural 'Pac Man Fever' and 'The Great Escapist'

How's everyone surviving the silly two week hiatus? It sucks, I know! Here are the description of two upcoming Supernatural episodes, Pac Man Fever and The Great Escapist. My God! We are only a few episodes away from the season finale. Time flies when you have fun! 

8.20 Pac Man Fever

DEAN INTRODUCES CHARLIE TO CHEAP PANTSUITS — Concerned about the physical toll the second trial took on Sam (Jared Padalecki), Dean (Jensen Ackles) benches his brother from hunting until he heals up. So, when geektastic hacker Charlie (guest star Felicia Day) stumbles upon a case and finds the boys, Dean decides it’s time to teach Charlie how to be a hunter-in-training. While happy to see 'her highness', the boys suspect Charlie is hiding something; a secret that could get her killed. Robert Singer directed the episode written by Robbie Thompson. Source: KSiteTV

Pac Man Fever airs on April 24.

8.21 The Great Escapist

FEELING LUCKY TONIGHT? — When Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) receive a distressing video message from Kevin Tran (guest star Osric Chau), they set about trying to uncover the Third Trial. The boys make a discovery that sends them to a casino in Colorado, to find a mysterious recluse (guest star Curtis Armstrong) who may be able to fill in the holes in Kevin’s research. Meanwhile, Crowley (guest star Mark Sheppard) is on a winning streak. Castiel (Misha Collins) tries to elude Naomi (guest star Amanda Tapping) and the angels hunting him. Robert Duncan McNeill directed the episode written by Ben Edlund. Source: KSiteTV

The Great Escapist airs on May 1. Hello Ben Edlund! 

Here is an update on episode titles and air dates:

8.01  We Need to Talk About Kevin

8.02  What's Up, Tiger Mommy?

8.03  Heartache 

8.04  Bitten 

8.05  Blood Brother

8.06  Southern Comfort 

8.07  A Little Slice of Kevin

8.08  Hunteri Heroici 
8.09 Citizen Fang

8.10 Torn and Frayed 

8.11 LARP and the Real Girl

8:12 As Time Goes By
8.13 Everyone Hates
8.14 Trial And Error
8.15 Man's Best Friend With Benefits
8.16 Remember The Titans
8.17 Goodbye Stranger
8.18 Freaks and Geeks
8.19 Taxi Driver
8.20 Pac-Man Fever (April 24)
8.21 The Great Escapist (May 1) 
8.22 Clip Show (May 8)

8.23 Sacrifice (May 15)

My Two Cents -- Marvel's Iron Man III; Captain America Winter Solder

Since The Avengers took the world by storm, the movie landscape has been a bit flat to me. I am a fangirl who loves my superhero action movies. And you know how excited I am about Marvel's Phase II. I have already lined up my Iron Man III weekend, and I am super excited to see news about Captain America: Winter Solder.

I went to watch G.I Joe a few weeks ago because I have freebie. I don't get the movie, except it was crap. The best thing about the movie was the Iron Man III trailer. Yay!

What's more exciting is that Captain America: Winter Solder has began its production and it's been confirmed Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) will be heavily involved in the plot. You know I love her with Captain America! I can't get over how funny this duo is, because I watched and loved The Nanny Diaries. More on Captain America: Winter Solder, check out here. 

Marvel's Phase II aside, I am also excited about Star Trek: To the Darkness. I have officially caught up with all previous interviews by Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto. They are funny, did you know that? 

Thank goodness exciting movies are just around the corner!

Review: Supernatural 'Taxi Driver'

There are so many things to discuss about the recent episode of Supernatural, Taxi Driver. Let me start by saying, Taxi Driver may not be the best written episode ever in the history of Supernatural, but it was very solid. There wasn't one dull moment in this episode. It was a gripping 40 minute of good television with some really heartfelt dialogues and great acting. Guy Bee is a seasoned director, he is the Jon Favreau of Supernatural. I really love the look and feel of the episode. Writers, Eugenie Ross-Leming and Brad Buckner, can tackle serious topics, which are getting harder but more fun to write, because the grey area is getting bigger as our characters and stories are evolving from the classic 'black and white' scenarios.

This is the first time we see Hell and Purgatory appeared in one episode. And it is officially the first time we see Hell -- not from Sam's hallucination or Dean's flashback, or the Hell tour Crowley gave Cas back in season six -- but the actual bloody Hell! And hell yeah, it was bloody awesome! I heard the coffee is good down there? 

I love the idea that Hell's backdoor was a rabbit hole located in Purgatory. I was really blown away by the Hell's gate located Wyoming, because I worship Samuel Colt. But this rabbit hole idea was pretty good. It was a backdoor, not a grand entrance. I can live with it the fact that it was located in some tree with some rock. I also love how Taxi Driver showed us some distinctive visual features of Earth, Purgatory and Hell.

Sam's hair was nicely styled.

I love the idea of sending Sam to Purgatory because he got first hand experience of what Dean went through and saw what Purgatory was like. I do think Sam's journey into Hell and Purgatory was a bit rush and looked too easy. And after a year in Hell with Lucifer and Michael, Sam didn't look as freaked out as I expected. But it was still awesome. This episode was very ambitious but at the same time the story was well planned and paced. I really like the fact that Sam had a good interaction with Bobby (it was great to see Jim Beaver on my TV). The scene seemed a little rush but I get it because you can only fit so much in a 40 minute script. Too bad Sam didn't get to explain to Bobby why he didn't look for Dean; Bobby didn't get to see Dean in the flash and gave him a hug; and Bobby didn't have the time to understand why Benny was a buddy.

I love Sam finally had an opportunity to see who Benny really was. Benny may be a vampire, but it didn't mean he was a monster with an evil heart. Like, just because you are human, it didn't mean you are 'good' by default. Keep in mind this has been a bit of a recurring theme in the past few seasons -- the boundary of good and evil became blurry, challenging our perspectives. And I think this challenge is underrated and sometimes misunderstood.

I love LOVE LOVE the Dean and Benny scene. To me, it was one of the most memorable scenes in season eight. Jensen Ackles and Ty Olsson had brilliant on-screen chemistry. I feel really sorry for Benny. It really killed Dean to ask Benny to be killed and to return to Purgatory to save Sam. Ty Olsson was brilliant in this scene and I really… OMG… why can't men act like that in real life? And I love the fact that Dean gave two hugs in this episode -- one for Sam and one for Benny -- was awesome! I love hugs. Poor guy! 

I am jamming Crazy in Love.. oh-o!

I am a fan of Benny and I have discussed the construct of his character before. I really like that the way he was written this season -- he may be a vampire but he wasn't a monster because he had a good soul. Dean is a universal treasure with a good heart and soul, he may be a hunter but he is not like other hunters who kills for joy and revenge. As mentioned in earlier episodes, Dean and Benny felt pure when they were in Purgatory. It was just so sad to Benny to admit that he didn't belong anyway. He did what he came back to do, and now he felt crap because he didn't belong and had no friends. Oh gosh I love him! I hope he returns later! 

While Sam was off for the second trial, Dean was off taking care of Kevin and cooked for him! I really like the fact that the brothers didn't forget Kevin and to embrace him as a friend. I really like the fact that Dean and Sam are on the same page and they are exactly where they should be in terms of hunting/ saving people and life. Both Sam and Dean gave Kevin some advice on separate occasions, and their message was the same for Kevin -- with great power came great responsibility. Life would never be the same again. Through the interaction with Kevin about his job and responsibility, Dean and Sam both showed clarity and maturity in their thinking. It wasn't like they were telling Kevin different things, they were telling Kevin the same thing. It wasn't like they just wanted to whine about stuff to other people, Dean and Sam had a very clear idea about their jobs. It wasn't so much about whether or not Kevin would accept their advice, it was about showing how clear and mature Dean and Sam are right now. 

Moving on to Naomi. Interesting! OK, so she acts like she is helping the Winchesters out of the goodness of her heart. Perspective is one of the recurring themes this season. May be she doesn't see this as 'manipulation' or whatever, because that's how she is programmed to think. Supernatural has been giving us something a bit different this season -- Meg as the 'good guy', Benny as the 'good vampire', 'friendly' witches and werewolves are not unheard of. We have seen how angels behave on the shows and they are dicks. I am kinda guessing may be Naomi will surprise us? It's expected of her to be an ass, a bitch and a liar. But Supernatural is capable in throwing the curve ball. What if the current event and interaction with Dean and Sam change her the way that it changed Cas? Just saying. I can't imagine Supernatural would give us another Uriel, Zach or Michael. I am keeping an open mind about her and will see where the show takes her. I love Amanda Tapping, I am just so happy that she is on the show.

And then there was Crowley. I think I was seeing a different Crowley in this episode. I think he was getting desperate. Taxi Driver showed us Crowley was not happy to be in the dark, not knowing what the boys were up to. He was frustrated that his Hellhound was killed and Kevin was still missing from his sight. He was angry that his demons were not doing their jobs and failing to see the urgency of their kind was under threat. Crowley was so used to sealing deals, getting what he wanted but he hadn't been successful. I am seeing a vulnerable King of Hell. It's almost like he was becoming obsessed in finding what the Winchesters are up to. Crowley was so close in getting the angel tablet, locking Bobby back to Hell and finding Kevin, but he just couldn't get things done.

And what about Kevin? I love Kevin! I really like Osric Chau on the show. He is just awesome! So adorable! Is it just me or do you think the brothers should've moved Kev to the MoL bunker? But again, I guess if things went crap, MoL would be gone, like Bobby's house. Anyway, I love that Kevin has become this crazy prophet who is paranoid about things. I love the development of his character. The tablet had driven him crazy but I love how much he cared and stressed out, making him so cute. Chuck was a different prophet to Kevin. Chuck got headaches, he got drunk, he was a commercial author. Chuck was protected, so he didn't need to learn about using guns and making demon bombs to protect himself. But Kevin did, because he was on his own as a prophet. I think Kevin was definitely hallucinating. He was seeing the windows cracked and Crowley appeared. But when Dean and Sam got there in the last scene, the windows went back to normal. So after having a dialogue with a few tweeps, I believe that Kevin has gone complete nuts and he just left. I hope Kevin is ok and I hope Cas would return and help. I know he would.

So, in the end, Sam successfully completed the second trial. It was painful to see Sam in pain. It must hurt Dean so much to see his little brother to suffer. Overall, I think the second trial was so much more interested than the first one. In comparison, the first trial was a bit light, almost weak. The second trial had so much more meat in it and the story, characters, everything was so way better. Will we see the last trial by the end of the season or will it drag to season nine? Behold of a cliffhanger -- it is known, Supernatural does amazing cliffhanger. So I wonder what it will be.

Supernatural is on a tiny hiatus and will return on April 24 with Pac-Man Fever. I am having a moment. Dean Winchester, you sexy thing in uniform!!! A Robbie Thompson episode directed by Robert Singer with Felicia Day in it? Like.. Hello? I am so excited in every sense of the word.

Jensen totally has the Captain America Steve Rogers look. Oh crap. I can't help it!

8.20 Pac-Man Fever

DEAN INTRODUCES CHARLIE TO CHEAP PANTSUITS — Concerned about the physical toll the second trial took on Sam (Jared Padalecki), Dean (Jensen Ackles) benches his brother from hunting until he heals up. So, when geektastic hacker Charlie (guest star Felicia Day) stumbles upon a case and finds the boys, Dean decides it’s time to teach Charlie how to be a hunter-in-training. While happy to see 'her highness', the boys suspect Charlie is hiding something; a secret that could get her killed. Robert Singer directed the episode written by Robbie Thompson.