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Sherlock (s1ep1): A Study in Pink
★★★★
Sherlock Holmes is introduced to ex-army doctor John Watson who he moves in with and then convinces to help him solve murder mysteries. Their first case together is one that looks, pills to police, hepatitis like a case of linked suicides.

Sherlock (s1ep2): The Blind Banker
★★★
Sherlock and Watson work on deciphering the deadly symbols that are covering the walls all around London and killing everyone who sees them within hours before any further victim succumbs to the mysterious Black Lotus.

Sherlock (s1ep3): The Great Game
★★★★
Sherlock investigates the murder of a young civil servant and soon finds himself in a battle of wits with a deranged bomber who sets a series of escalating challenges for the consultant detective.

It’s kind of scary the way this fandom has blown up overnight with just three episodes.

First thing, the directing and cinematography are lovely. Second thing, the characters, actors, and modern setting took me a little bit to get accustomed. But once I got past all that, I loved it.

Reporter: One more question, is there any chance that these are murders? And if they are, is this the work of a serial killer?
Inspector Lestrade: I know that you like writing about these, but these do appear to be suicides, we know the difference. The poison was clearly self-administered.
Reporter: Yes, but if they are murders, how do people keep themselves safe?
Inspector Lestrade: Well, don’t commit suicide.

I loved the use of modern technology like txt messages on screen, use of cell phones, the internet, blogging, etc. These things could have become gimmicky, but actually melded in really well with the new modern setting.

Sherlock: The name is Sherlock Holmes and the address is 221B Baker Street. Afternoon!

There’s also an exciting number of callbacks to the books that most people wouldn’t even catch. (That cry you just heard were fans *squee*ing around the world.)

John: That…was amazing.
Sherlock: Do you think so?
John: Of course it was, it was extraordinary. It was quite extraordinary.
Sherlock: That’s not what people normally say.
John: What do people normally say?
Sherlock: Piss off.

One of the things I felt lacking from the movie version was being able to see Holmes leaps of logic as he worked his way through the crimes. I loved the flashes and zooms in this version as you went along for the ride. The first time we see Holmes at work, it is pretty amazing.

Sherlock: I’m not implying anything – I’m sure Sally came round for a nice little chat – and just happened to stay over … and I assume she scrubbed your floors, going by the state of her knees!

And one of the best parts about being smart is being able to call people out on things.

Female Officer: You know why he’s here? He’s not paid or anything. He likes it. He gets off on it. The weirder the crime, the more he gets off. And you know what…? One day just showing up won’t be enough. One day we’ll be standing round a body and Sherlock Holmes’ll be the one that put it there.
John: Why would he do that?
Female Officer: Because he’s a psychopath. Psychopaths get bored.

Sherlock: I’m not a psychopath Anderson, I’m a high-functioning sociopath. Do your research.

Sherlock: Dear God, what is it like in your funny little brains? It must be so boring!

Then, there’s Cumberbatch who does an awesome job as Holmes and subtly showing off all the character’s little quirks. Holmes is smart, knows it, and he has the ego to match. He’s also possibly a little crazy.

Mycroft: I am the closest thing to a friend that Sherlock Holmes is capable of having.
John: And what’s that?
Mycroft: An enemy.
John: An enemy?
Mycroft: In his mind, certainly. If you were to ask him, he would probably say his arch enemy. He does love to be dramatic.
John: Well, thank God you’re above all that.

But at the same time, there’s these glimpses past his tough know-it-all exterior. It’s clear early on that he lives for the chase, to figure out the crime, otherwise he finds life boring. I love that the writers have given him layers, so we know there is more at stake here with his character.

Mycroft: You have an intermittent tremor in your left hand, your therapist thinks it’s post-traumatic stress disorder. She thinks you’re haunted by memories of your military service.
John: Who the hell are you? How do you know that?
Mycroft: Fire her. She’s got it the wrong way around. You’re under stress right now and your hand is perfectly steady. You’re not haunted by the war, Dr. Watson, you miss it. Welcome back.

And Holmes isn’t the only one who needs a sense of purpose. Watson is just looking for a place to fit in and continue on with his life. And that’s why they’re perfect together, one is just a bit more stable.

Sherlock: Did he offer you money to spy on me?
John: Yes.
Sherlock: Did you take it?
John: No.
Sherlock: Pity, we could have split the fee. Think it through next time.

Thank god Holmes’ isn’t all serious and stuff, too. At least he has a sense of humor. The banter between the two makes a lot of their relationship and the show.

John: Sorry, what are we doing? Did I just text a murderer?

And then there’s the otherside of Holmes and Watson’s newly established relationship. Holmes totally takes advantage of him and gets him to do things, unknowingly, for his amusement. And it is pretty funny. But I also realize he does it as a form of endearment as he really cares.

Cabbie: One thing about being a cabbie you always know a nice quiet spot for a murder. I’m surprised more of us don’t branch out. 

The bad guy of the week, the cabbie, was so creepy. The idea that he can will people into taking a pill and killing themselves, and then the authorities not being able to see it as murder is a creepy thing.

John: You weren’t going to take that damn pill, were you?
Sherlock: Of course I wasn’t. Biding my time. I knew you’d turn up.
John: No you didn’t. It’s how you get your kicks, isn’ it? You risk your life to prove you’re clever.
Sherlock: Why would I do that?
John: Because you’re an idiot.

I find the idea scary that if it wasn’t for Watson shooting him, then maybe even Holmes would have taken the pill. (Did I mention how much I love that through the window shot as Watson realizes he’s in the wrong building?)

Holmes has a weakness, his thirst for knowledge and being right, and the cabbie was able to prey on it. It’s going to get him into trouble sooner or later. But I guess I’m like him, I still want to know if it was the right pill to take or not. But on the other hand I’m just glad he didn’t get to take it.

So, yeah. First episode, loved it. The game is most definitely on.

Apparently this episode had an abundance of stereotypes that people found frustrating. Part of me agrees, then another part of me realizes I’ve heard this complaint before. Characters in stories are always created from a mixture of characteristics and stereotypes. Besides, I find that more often than not, people are a result of their upbringing and conform to these same stereotypes. We just don’t like to point it out.

Holmes evading a sword is a lot of win. I love that with each new episode/scene, we learn more about his character quirks and many talents. Now that I think about it, that whole scene wasn’t actually explained, but ah well.

Sherlock: You took your time.
John: Yeah, I didn’t get the shopping.
Sherlock: What? Why not?
John: Because I had a row. In the shop. With a Chip and PIN machine.
Sherlock: You—you had a row with a machine?
John: Sort of. It sat there and I shouted abuse. Have you got cash?
Sherlock: Take my card.
John: You could always go yourself. You know, you’ve been sitting there all morning. You haven’t even moved since I left.

Oh, Holmes and Watson. They’re like an old married couple, arguing over who’s going to get the groceries and why haven’t you done anything all day. I love that the writers continue the homoerotic subtext in this episode. I don’t ship them mind you, but I can still find it amusing.

Sherlock: This is my friend, John Watson.
John: Friend.
Sherlock: Colleague!

Sherlock Holmes has no friends. Or so he thinks. As if.

Seb: There’s a hole in our security. Find it and we’ll pay you. Five figures. This is an advance. Tell me how he got in. There’s a bigger one on it’s way.
Sherlock: I don’t need an incentive, Sebastian.
John: He’s uh… clears throat He’s kidding you, obviously. Shall I look after that for him?
Seb hands over the check.

More insight into Holmes and his quest for knowledge. I still find it fascinating that the game is the only thing really moving him to solve crimes. Poor Watson now has to make sure they get paid for it, lol.

Sherlock: Actually, I’ve just locked my keys in my flat. …And can we use your balcony?
*grin*

Holmes’ acting skills FTW. Another one of his hidden talents. So, amusing to know he’ll do anything to solve a crime.

John: Where are we headed?
Sherlock: I need to ask some advice.
John: What? Sorry?
Sherlock: You heard me perfectly; I’m not saying it again.
John: You need advice?

Sherlock: Coffee table on the left hand side; coffee mug handle pointing to the left. Power sockets: habitually use the ones on the left. Pen and paper on the left hand side of the phone because he picked it up with his right and took down messages with his left. Do you want me to go on?
John: No, I think you’ve covered it.
Sherlock: I might as well, I’m almost at the bottom of the list. There’s a knife on the breadboard with butter on the right side of the blade because he used it with his left….

Deduction skills FTW. One of the things missing from the Holmes movie that I love seeing in the series.

Sherlock: I said can you pass me a pen?
John: …When?
Sherlock: About an hour ago.

Watson informs him that he has a date.
Sherlock:A what?
John: It’s where two people who like each other go out and have fun.
Sherlock: That’s what I was suggesting.
John: No it wasn’t. At least I hope not.

I love that they added another character into the Holmes/Watson relationship. Watson really needs an outside life, well, at least until he realizes he can’t have one with Holmes by his side. And just what are you going to do about it, Holmes? Oh, yeah, that’s right, trick him into going out on a case by offering him tickets to the circus.

M: GRATITUDE IS MEANINGLESS. IT IS ONLY THE EXPECTATION OF FURTHER FAVOURS.
(Shan observes that M’s safety is compromised)
M: THEY CANNOT TRACE THIS BACK TO ME.
(Shan says, I will not reveal your identity)
M: I AM CERTAIN. (shoots her)

Yay for M making his first semi-appearance (through the computer).

Barry: She was gettin’ at me, saying I weren’t a real man–
Sherlock: Wasn’t.
Barry: What?
Sherlock: It’s not weren’t, it’s wasn’t.
…
Sherlock: Taught you how to cut up a piece.
Barry: Yeah, well, then I done it.
Sherlock: Did it.
Barry: I stabbed her over and over and over and I looked at her and she weren’t– … wasn’t movin’ no more…anymore.

Barry: Without you, I’ll get hung for this.
Sherlock: No, no, no, not at all. Hanged? Yes.

Holmes’s whole talk with the inmate was priceless. That’s the Holmes we know and love, completely frustrated by iwhen there’s no 

Sherlock: Flattered? Sherlock sees through everything and everyone in seconds. What’s incredible, though, is how spectacularly ignorant he is about some things.
John: Now hang on a minute, I didn’t mean that in a-
Sherlock: Oh, so you meant spectacularly ignorant in a nice way.

John: Or that the Earth goes around the Sun?
Sherlock: Oh, God, that again, it’s not important!
John: Not imp—it’s primary school stuff. How can you not know that?
Sherlock: If I ever did, I’ve deleted it.
John: Deleted it?
Sherlock: Listen… This is my hard drive, and it only makes sense to put things in there that are useful, really useful. Ordinary people fill their heads with all kinds of rubbish, and that makes it hard to get at the stuff that matters. Do you see?
John: … BUT IT’S THE SOLAR SYSTEM!

Holmes has a point. When you’re solving crimes left and right, what’s the use of that extra knowledge. Unless, you know, he comes across a case that needs planetary knowledge. Then, he might have to go ask for some advice again. ;)

Sherlock: I’d be lost without my blogger.

JOHN: That…That’s the pink phone.
LESTRADE: What from ‘A Study In Pink’ ?
Sherlock: Well, obviously it’s not the same phone but it’s supposed to look like…’A Study In Pink’ ? You read his blog?
LESTRADE: Course I read his blog – we all do! Do you really not know that the earth goes around the sun?

+1 to using a reference from the books. (Apparently there’s tons of them throughout the series.) And lol, Watson having a blog and writing about Holmes’ cases is awesome. Holmes doesn’t seem to like that Watson is getting a lot of recognition, does he?

Molly: That’s how we met. Office romance.
Sherlock: Gay.
Molly: What?

However ridiculous it might have been, it was priceless seeing Holmes explaining why Molly’s new boyfriend is gay. And the kicker, he left me his number under this dish. Everyone is smitten with Holmes, huh? Oh, Molly, you’re not going to make him jealous and you’re never going to get him. Give up. 

Sherlock: I am on FIRE!

Even though Holmes’ ego can get the best of him, I do enjoy seeing seeing him get fired up when he solves a crime.

John: There are lives at stake, Holmes! Actual human lives! Just so I know, do you care about that at all?
Sherlock: Would caring about them help to save them?
John: No.
Sherlock: Then I’ll continue not to make that mistake.
John: And you find that easy, do you?
Sherlock: Yes, very. Is that news to you?
John: No… no.
Sherlock: … I’ve disappointed you.
John: It’s good. It’s a good deduction, yes.
Sherlock: Don’t make people into heroes, John: heroes don’t exist, and if they did I wouldn’t be one of them.

Things just got serious. More interesting background into Holmes’ character where letting people in is a mistake. And showing compassion or empathy is a flaw. Using David Duchovny’s words about Mulder from The X-Files, Watson is Holmes’ human creditential. Watson makes Holmes a human being because people think, If, well, if [he] can stand him, he must have some humanity within him. Well, we haven’t quite reached that part of their relationship yet, but yeah. And oh god, this is sounding shippy.

Sherlock: Why are you doing this?
Moriarty: I like to watch you dance.

Moriarty finally really appears. I’ll admit it, I was really wondering what was goign on when Watson came out during the pool scene. And I was also taken aback at Moriarty’s personality, but it’s really grown on me.

Moriarty: Why does anyone do anything? Because I’m bored. We were made for each other, Holmes.

Moriarty: I will burn the heart out of you.
Sherlock: I have been reliably informed that I don’t have one.
Moriarty: Oh, but we both know that’s not quite true.

Sherlock: People have died.
Moriarty: That’s what people do!

Holmes and Moriarty. They’re like two sides of the same coin, and that’s what make their rivalry fascinating. He’s a crime solver for hire, and he’s a crime creator for hire. They have similar thoughts on the world and people, but there’s a fine line that stops Holmes from becoming Moriarty.

Moriarty: Is that a British Army Browning L9A1 in your pocket, or are you just pleased to see me?
Sherlock: Both.

Sherlock: Consulting criminal…brilliant.
Moriarty: Isn’t it? No one ever gets to me. And no one ever will.
Sherlock: I did.
Moriarty: You’ve come the closest. Now you’re in my way!
Sherlock: Thank you.
Moriarty: Didn’t mean it as a compliment.
Sherlock: Yes, you did.
Moriarty: Yeh, OK, I did. But the flirting’s over, Holmes, Daddy’s had enough now!

Moriarty: Do you know what happens if you don’t leave me alone, Holmes? To you?
Sherlock: Oh let me guess, I get killed.
Moriarty: Kill you? No. Don’t be obvious, I mean I’m going to kill you anyway…some day. I don’t want to rush it though. I’m saving it up for something special. No, no, no, no, if you don’t stop prying…I’ll burn you. I’ll burn the heart out of you.

Now here’s the real archenemy. Yes, please.

John: You, ripping off my clothes in a darkened swimming pool. People might talk.
Sherlock: People do little else.

See, Holmes does care about people. Well, at least Watson.

Dun, dun, dun. Evil cliffy. This episode and the first one are going to leave me with good thoughts for the next….year? Why aren’t we getting anymore episodes for a year?  

If you’re not allergic to hearing the soundtrack before the movie, it was released on June 8th.+ This one is much better than the last one, in my opinion. Examiner has a positive review as well, so you don’t have to take my word for it.+ The first single by Muse, ‘Neutron Star Collision (Love is Forever)’ is also out along with the music video. For those keeping score, Muse has been on each of the three Twilight soundtracks.+

Also: Blair Underwood (“Dirty Sexy Money”); Laura Innes (“ER”), Scott Patterson (“Gilmore Girls”). Ian Anthony Dale (“Daybreak”) and Zeljko Ivanek (“Damages”).

UNDERCOVERS – Outwardly, Steven Bloom (Boris Kodjoe, “Resident Evil: Afterlife”) and his wife, Samantha (Gugu Mbatha-Raw, “Doctor Who”), are a typical married couple, secretly the duo were two of the CIA’s best spies until they fell in love on the job five years ago and retired. The pair is thrust back into the world of espionage as they follow leads that span the globe.

Also: Acclaimed writer/producer/director J.J. Abrams (“Star Trek,” “Fringe,” “Lost,” “Alias”) serves as co-writer, executive producer – and also directs – his first direction of a TV series pilot since “Lost”.

ExtraExtra: FutonCritic says what I was thinking: too lighthearted to be the usual Abrams fare. I’m in, but not as excited as I would have hoped to be.+

CHASE – “Chase” is a fast-paced drama from Emmy Award-winning executive producer Jerry Bruckheimer. Kelli Giddish (“Past Life”) stars as U.S. Marshal Annie Frost, whose Texas upbringing help her track down the violent criminals on the run.

Also: Cole Hauser (“K-Ville”), Amaury Nolasco (“Prison Break”), Rose Rollins (“The L Word”) and Jesse Metcalfe (“Desperate Housewives”). David Nutter (“The X-Files”,”Roswell”) directed and is executive producer of the pilot.

THE CAPE – “The Cape” is a one-hour drama series starring David Lyons (“ER”) as Vince Faraday, an honest cop who finds himself framed for a series of murders and presumed dead. Fueled by a desire to reunite with his family and to battle the criminal forces that have overtaken Palm City, Faraday becomes “The Cape” his son’s favorite comic book superhero — and takes the law into his own hands.

Also: James Frain (“The Tudors”), Keith David (“Death at a Funeral”), Summer Glau (“Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles”) Dorian Missick (“Six Degrees”).

Also: Blair Underwood (“Dirty Sexy Money”); Laura Innes (“ER”), Scott Patterson (“Gilmore Girls”). Ian Anthony Dale (“Daybreak”) and Zeljko Ivanek (“Damages”).

UNDERCOVERS – Outwardly, Steven Bloom (Boris Kodjoe, “Resident Evil: Afterlife”) and his wife, Samantha (Gugu Mbatha-Raw, “Doctor Who”), are a typical married couple, secretly the duo were two of the CIA’s best spies until they fell in love on the job five years ago and retired. The pair is thrust back into the world of espionage as they follow leads that span the globe.

Also: Acclaimed writer/producer/director J.J. Abrams (“Star Trek,” “Fringe,” “Lost,” “Alias”) serves as co-writer, executive producer – and also directs – his first direction of a TV series pilot since “Lost”.

ExtraExtra: FutonCritic says what I was thinking: too lighthearted to be the usual Abrams fare. I’m in, but not as excited as I would have hoped to be.+

CHASE – “Chase” is a fast-paced drama from Emmy Award-winning executive producer Jerry Bruckheimer. Kelli Giddish (“Past Life”) stars as U.S. Marshal Annie Frost, whose Texas upbringing help her track down the violent criminals on the run.

Also: Cole Hauser (“K-Ville”), Amaury Nolasco (“Prison Break”), Rose Rollins (“The L Word”) and Jesse Metcalfe (“Desperate Housewives”). David Nutter (“The X-Files”,”Roswell”) directed and is executive producer of the pilot.

THE CAPE – “The Cape” is a one-hour drama series starring David Lyons (“ER”) as Vince Faraday, an honest cop who finds himself framed for a series of murders and presumed dead. Fueled by a desire to reunite with his family and to battle the criminal forces that have overtaken Palm City, Faraday becomes “The Cape” his son’s favorite comic book superhero — and takes the law into his own hands.

Also: James Frain (“The Tudors”), Keith David (“Death at a Funeral”), Summer Glau (“Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles”) Dorian Missick (“Six Degrees”).

If you’re not allergic to hearing the soundtrack before the movie, it was released on June 8th.+ This one is much better than the last one, in my opinion. Examiner has a positive review as well, so you don’t have to take my word for it.+ The first single by Muse, ‘Neutron Star Collision (Love is Forever)’ is also out along with the music video. For those keeping score, Muse has been on each of the three Twilight soundtracks.+

Also: Blair Underwood (“Dirty Sexy Money”); Laura Innes (“ER”), Scott Patterson (“Gilmore Girls”). Ian Anthony Dale (“Daybreak”) and Zeljko Ivanek (“Damages”).

UNDERCOVERS – Outwardly, Steven Bloom (Boris Kodjoe, “Resident Evil: Afterlife”) and his wife, Samantha (Gugu Mbatha-Raw, “Doctor Who”), are a typical married couple, secretly the duo were two of the CIA’s best spies until they fell in love on the job five years ago and retired. The pair is thrust back into the world of espionage as they follow leads that span the globe.

Also: Acclaimed writer/producer/director J.J. Abrams (“Star Trek,” “Fringe,” “Lost,” “Alias”) serves as co-writer, executive producer – and also directs – his first direction of a TV series pilot since “Lost”.

ExtraExtra: FutonCritic says what I was thinking: too lighthearted to be the usual Abrams fare. I’m in, but not as excited as I would have hoped to be.+

CHASE – “Chase” is a fast-paced drama from Emmy Award-winning executive producer Jerry Bruckheimer. Kelli Giddish (“Past Life”) stars as U.S. Marshal Annie Frost, whose Texas upbringing help her track down the violent criminals on the run.

Also: Cole Hauser (“K-Ville”), Amaury Nolasco (“Prison Break”), Rose Rollins (“The L Word”) and Jesse Metcalfe (“Desperate Housewives”). David Nutter (“The X-Files”,”Roswell”) directed and is executive producer of the pilot.

THE CAPE – “The Cape” is a one-hour drama series starring David Lyons (“ER”) as Vince Faraday, an honest cop who finds himself framed for a series of murders and presumed dead. Fueled by a desire to reunite with his family and to battle the criminal forces that have overtaken Palm City, Faraday becomes “The Cape” his son’s favorite comic book superhero — and takes the law into his own hands.

Also: James Frain (“The Tudors”), Keith David (“Death at a Funeral”), Summer Glau (“Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles”) Dorian Missick (“Six Degrees”).

Also: Michael Chiklis (“The Shield”) stars as Jim Powell, Julie Benz (“Dexter”) as Stephanie Powell, Romany Malco (“The 40-Year-Old Virgin”) as George St. Cloud, Autumn Reeser (“The O.C.”) as Katie Andrews, Kay Panabaker as Daphne Powell, and Jimmy Bennett as JJ Powell.“

OFF THE MAP – Executive producer Shonda Rhimes (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Private Practice”) brings you an uplifting medical drama that explores how far you have to go to truly heal. In a tiny town in the South American jungle five doctors who have lost their way will go to the ends of the earth to try to remember the reasons why they wanted to become doctors in the first place.

Also: “Off the Map” stars Martin Henderson as Ben Keeton, Caroline Dhavernas as Lily Brenner (“Wonderfalls”), Enrique Murciano as Manny Diaz, Mamie Gummer as Mina Minard, Jason George as Otis Cole, Valerie Cruz as Zita (Zee) and Jose Julian as Charlie.

If you’re not allergic to hearing the soundtrack before the movie, it was released on June 8th.+ This one is much better than the last one, in my opinion. Examiner has a positive review as well, so you don’t have to take my word for it.+ The first single by Muse, ‘Neutron Star Collision (Love is Forever)’ is also out along with the music video. For those keeping score, Muse has been on each of the three Twilight soundtracks.+

Also: Blair Underwood (“Dirty Sexy Money”); Laura Innes (“ER”), Scott Patterson (“Gilmore Girls”). Ian Anthony Dale (“Daybreak”) and Zeljko Ivanek (“Damages”).

UNDERCOVERS – Outwardly, Steven Bloom (Boris Kodjoe, “Resident Evil: Afterlife”) and his wife, Samantha (Gugu Mbatha-Raw, “Doctor Who”), are a typical married couple, secretly the duo were two of the CIA’s best spies until they fell in love on the job five years ago and retired. The pair is thrust back into the world of espionage as they follow leads that span the globe.

Also: Acclaimed writer/producer/director J.J. Abrams (“Star Trek,” “Fringe,” “Lost,” “Alias”) serves as co-writer, executive producer – and also directs – his first direction of a TV series pilot since “Lost”.

ExtraExtra: FutonCritic says what I was thinking: too lighthearted to be the usual Abrams fare. I’m in, but not as excited as I would have hoped to be.+

CHASE – “Chase” is a fast-paced drama from Emmy Award-winning executive producer Jerry Bruckheimer. Kelli Giddish (“Past Life”) stars as U.S. Marshal Annie Frost, whose Texas upbringing help her track down the violent criminals on the run.

Also: Cole Hauser (“K-Ville”), Amaury Nolasco (“Prison Break”), Rose Rollins (“The L Word”) and Jesse Metcalfe (“Desperate Housewives”). David Nutter (“The X-Files”,”Roswell”) directed and is executive producer of the pilot.

THE CAPE – “The Cape” is a one-hour drama series starring David Lyons (“ER”) as Vince Faraday, an honest cop who finds himself framed for a series of murders and presumed dead. Fueled by a desire to reunite with his family and to battle the criminal forces that have overtaken Palm City, Faraday becomes “The Cape” his son’s favorite comic book superhero — and takes the law into his own hands.

Also: James Frain (“The Tudors”), Keith David (“Death at a Funeral”), Summer Glau (“Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles”) Dorian Missick (“Six Degrees”).

Also: Michael Chiklis (“The Shield”) stars as Jim Powell, Julie Benz (“Dexter”) as Stephanie Powell, Romany Malco (“The 40-Year-Old Virgin”) as George St. Cloud, Autumn Reeser (“The O.C.”) as Katie Andrews, Kay Panabaker as Daphne Powell, and Jimmy Bennett as JJ Powell.“

OFF THE MAP – Executive producer Shonda Rhimes (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Private Practice”) brings you an uplifting medical drama that explores how far you have to go to truly heal. In a tiny town in the South American jungle five doctors who have lost their way will go to the ends of the earth to try to remember the reasons why they wanted to become doctors in the first place.

Also: “Off the Map” stars Martin Henderson as Ben Keeton, Caroline Dhavernas as Lily Brenner (“Wonderfalls”), Enrique Murciano as Manny Diaz, Mamie Gummer as Mina Minard, Jason George as Otis Cole, Valerie Cruz as Zita (Zee) and Jose Julian as Charlie.

Also: Maggie Q as Nikita, Lyndsy Fonseca as Alex (“Kick-Ass”), Shane West as Michael (“ER”), Aaron Stanford as Birkhoff (“X-Men 2”), Ashton Holmes as Thom, Tiffany Hines as Jaden, with Melinda Clarke as Amanda (“The O.C.”) and Xander Berkeley as Percy (“Terminator 2”).

ExtraExtra: FutonCritic has their First Look with the same thoughts I had while reading the script: the story is strangely told instead of shown, but the mood, subject matter, and twist at the end make us curious to see more. With a good cast, this show that may need time to grow into it’s premise.+ Nikita trailer.+ This curiously goes along with what TVGuide said on how the pilot reminded them of Dollhouse.+

If you’re not allergic to hearing the soundtrack before the movie, it was released on June 8th.+ This one is much better than the last one, in my opinion. Examiner has a positive review as well, so you don’t have to take my word for it.+ The first single by Muse, ‘Neutron Star Collision (Love is Forever)’ is also out along with the music video. For those keeping score, Muse has been on each of the three Twilight soundtracks.+

Also: Blair Underwood (“Dirty Sexy Money”); Laura Innes (“ER”), Scott Patterson (“Gilmore Girls”). Ian Anthony Dale (“Daybreak”) and Zeljko Ivanek (“Damages”).

UNDERCOVERS – Outwardly, Steven Bloom (Boris Kodjoe, “Resident Evil: Afterlife”) and his wife, Samantha (Gugu Mbatha-Raw, “Doctor Who”), are a typical married couple, secretly the duo were two of the CIA’s best spies until they fell in love on the job five years ago and retired. The pair is thrust back into the world of espionage as they follow leads that span the globe.

Also: Acclaimed writer/producer/director J.J. Abrams (“Star Trek,” “Fringe,” “Lost,” “Alias”) serves as co-writer, executive producer – and also directs – his first direction of a TV series pilot since “Lost”.

ExtraExtra: FutonCritic says what I was thinking: too lighthearted to be the usual Abrams fare. I’m in, but not as excited as I would have hoped to be.+

CHASE – “Chase” is a fast-paced drama from Emmy Award-winning executive producer Jerry Bruckheimer. Kelli Giddish (“Past Life”) stars as U.S. Marshal Annie Frost, whose Texas upbringing help her track down the violent criminals on the run.

Also: Cole Hauser (“K-Ville”), Amaury Nolasco (“Prison Break”), Rose Rollins (“The L Word”) and Jesse Metcalfe (“Desperate Housewives”). David Nutter (“The X-Files”,”Roswell”) directed and is executive producer of the pilot.

THE CAPE – “The Cape” is a one-hour drama series starring David Lyons (“ER”) as Vince Faraday, an honest cop who finds himself framed for a series of murders and presumed dead. Fueled by a desire to reunite with his family and to battle the criminal forces that have overtaken Palm City, Faraday becomes “The Cape” his son’s favorite comic book superhero — and takes the law into his own hands.

Also: James Frain (“The Tudors”), Keith David (“Death at a Funeral”), Summer Glau (“Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles”) Dorian Missick (“Six Degrees”).

Also: Michael Chiklis (“The Shield”) stars as Jim Powell, Julie Benz (“Dexter”) as Stephanie Powell, Romany Malco (“The 40-Year-Old Virgin”) as George St. Cloud, Autumn Reeser (“The O.C.”) as Katie Andrews, Kay Panabaker as Daphne Powell, and Jimmy Bennett as JJ Powell.“

OFF THE MAP – Executive producer Shonda Rhimes (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Private Practice”) brings you an uplifting medical drama that explores how far you have to go to truly heal. In a tiny town in the South American jungle five doctors who have lost their way will go to the ends of the earth to try to remember the reasons why they wanted to become doctors in the first place.

Also: “Off the Map” stars Martin Henderson as Ben Keeton, Caroline Dhavernas as Lily Brenner (“Wonderfalls”), Enrique Murciano as Manny Diaz, Mamie Gummer as Mina Minard, Jason George as Otis Cole, Valerie Cruz as Zita (Zee) and Jose Julian as Charlie.

Also: Maggie Q as Nikita, Lyndsy Fonseca as Alex (“Kick-Ass”), Shane West as Michael (“ER”), Aaron Stanford as Birkhoff (“X-Men 2”), Ashton Holmes as Thom, Tiffany Hines as Jaden, with Melinda Clarke as Amanda (“The O.C.”) and Xander Berkeley as Percy (“Terminator 2”).

ExtraExtra: FutonCritic has their First Look with the same thoughts I had while reading the script: the story is strangely told instead of shown, but the mood, subject matter, and twist at the end make us curious to see more. With a good cast, this show that may need time to grow into it’s premise.+ Nikita trailer.+ This curiously goes along with what TVGuide said on how the pilot reminded them of Dollhouse.+

If you’re not allergic to hearing the soundtrack before the movie, it was released on June 8th.+ This one is much better than the last one, in my opinion. Examiner has a positive review as well, so you don’t have to take my word for it.+ The first single by Muse, ‘Neutron Star Collision (Love is Forever)’ is also out along with the music video. For those keeping score, Muse has been on each of the three Twilight soundtracks.+

Also: Blair Underwood (“Dirty Sexy Money”); Laura Innes (“ER”), Scott Patterson (“Gilmore Girls”). Ian Anthony Dale (“Daybreak”) and Zeljko Ivanek (“Damages”).

UNDERCOVERS – Outwardly, Steven Bloom (Boris Kodjoe, “Resident Evil: Afterlife”) and his wife, Samantha (Gugu Mbatha-Raw, “Doctor Who”), are a typical married couple, secretly the duo were two of the CIA’s best spies until they fell in love on the job five years ago and retired. The pair is thrust back into the world of espionage as they follow leads that span the globe.

Also: Acclaimed writer/producer/director J.J. Abrams (“Star Trek,” “Fringe,” “Lost,” “Alias”) serves as co-writer, executive producer – and also directs – his first direction of a TV series pilot since “Lost”.

ExtraExtra: FutonCritic says what I was thinking: too lighthearted to be the usual Abrams fare. I’m in, but not as excited as I would have hoped to be.+

CHASE – “Chase” is a fast-paced drama from Emmy Award-winning executive producer Jerry Bruckheimer. Kelli Giddish (“Past Life”) stars as U.S. Marshal Annie Frost, whose Texas upbringing help her track down the violent criminals on the run.

Also: Cole Hauser (“K-Ville”), Amaury Nolasco (“Prison Break”), Rose Rollins (“The L Word”) and Jesse Metcalfe (“Desperate Housewives”). David Nutter (“The X-Files”,”Roswell”) directed and is executive producer of the pilot.

THE CAPE – “The Cape” is a one-hour drama series starring David Lyons (“ER”) as Vince Faraday, an honest cop who finds himself framed for a series of murders and presumed dead. Fueled by a desire to reunite with his family and to battle the criminal forces that have overtaken Palm City, Faraday becomes “The Cape” his son’s favorite comic book superhero — and takes the law into his own hands.

Also: James Frain (“The Tudors”), Keith David (“Death at a Funeral”), Summer Glau (“Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles”) Dorian Missick (“Six Degrees”).

Also: Michael Chiklis (“The Shield”) stars as Jim Powell, Julie Benz (“Dexter”) as Stephanie Powell, Romany Malco (“The 40-Year-Old Virgin”) as George St. Cloud, Autumn Reeser (“The O.C.”) as Katie Andrews, Kay Panabaker as Daphne Powell, and Jimmy Bennett as JJ Powell.“

OFF THE MAP – Executive producer Shonda Rhimes (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Private Practice”) brings you an uplifting medical drama that explores how far you have to go to truly heal. In a tiny town in the South American jungle five doctors who have lost their way will go to the ends of the earth to try to remember the reasons why they wanted to become doctors in the first place.

Also: “Off the Map” stars Martin Henderson as Ben Keeton, Caroline Dhavernas as Lily Brenner (“Wonderfalls”), Enrique Murciano as Manny Diaz, Mamie Gummer as Mina Minard, Jason George as Otis Cole, Valerie Cruz as Zita (Zee) and Jose Julian as Charlie.

Also: Maggie Q as Nikita, Lyndsy Fonseca as Alex (“Kick-Ass”), Shane West as Michael (“ER”), Aaron Stanford as Birkhoff (“X-Men 2”), Ashton Holmes as Thom, Tiffany Hines as Jaden, with Melinda Clarke as Amanda (“The O.C.”) and Xander Berkeley as Percy (“Terminator 2”).

ExtraExtra: FutonCritic has their First Look with the same thoughts I had while reading the script: the story is strangely told instead of shown, but the mood, subject matter, and twist at the end make us curious to see more. With a good cast, this show that may need time to grow into it’s premise.+ Nikita trailer.+ This curiously goes along with what TVGuide said on how the pilot reminded them of Dollhouse.+

If you’re not allergic to hearing the soundtrack before the movie, it was released on June 8th.+ This one is much better than the last one, in my opinion. Examiner has a positive review as well, so you don’t have to take my word for it.+ The first single by Muse, ‘Neutron Star Collision (Love is Forever)’ is also out along with the music video. For those keeping score, Muse has been on each of the three Twilight soundtracks.+

Also: Blair Underwood (“Dirty Sexy Money”); Laura Innes (“ER”), Scott Patterson (“Gilmore Girls”). Ian Anthony Dale (“Daybreak”) and Zeljko Ivanek (“Damages”).

UNDERCOVERS – Outwardly, Steven Bloom (Boris Kodjoe, “Resident Evil: Afterlife”) and his wife, Samantha (Gugu Mbatha-Raw, “Doctor Who”), are a typical married couple, secretly the duo were two of the CIA’s best spies until they fell in love on the job five years ago and retired. The pair is thrust back into the world of espionage as they follow leads that span the globe.

Also: Acclaimed writer/producer/director J.J. Abrams (“Star Trek,” “Fringe,” “Lost,” “Alias”) serves as co-writer, executive producer – and also directs – his first direction of a TV series pilot since “Lost”.

ExtraExtra: FutonCritic says what I was thinking: too lighthearted to be the usual Abrams fare. I’m in, but not as excited as I would have hoped to be.+

CHASE – “Chase” is a fast-paced drama from Emmy Award-winning executive producer Jerry Bruckheimer. Kelli Giddish (“Past Life”) stars as U.S. Marshal Annie Frost, whose Texas upbringing help her track down the violent criminals on the run.

Also: Cole Hauser (“K-Ville”), Amaury Nolasco (“Prison Break”), Rose Rollins (“The L Word”) and Jesse Metcalfe (“Desperate Housewives”). David Nutter (“The X-Files”,”Roswell”) directed and is executive producer of the pilot.

THE CAPE – “The Cape” is a one-hour drama series starring David Lyons (“ER”) as Vince Faraday, an honest cop who finds himself framed for a series of murders and presumed dead. Fueled by a desire to reunite with his family and to battle the criminal forces that have overtaken Palm City, Faraday becomes “The Cape” his son’s favorite comic book superhero — and takes the law into his own hands.

Also: James Frain (“The Tudors”), Keith David (“Death at a Funeral”), Summer Glau (“Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles”) Dorian Missick (“Six Degrees”).

ExtraExtra: Terra Nova has hired Alex Graves who directed the pilot of Fringe to begin shooting at the end of the summer.+ SyFy also has 12 things we know about Terra Nova with a few more deets.+

Also: Michael Chiklis (“The Shield”) stars as Jim Powell, Julie Benz (“Dexter”) as Stephanie Powell, Romany Malco (“The 40-Year-Old Virgin”) as George St. Cloud, Autumn Reeser (“The O.C.”) as Katie Andrews, Kay Panabaker as Daphne Powell, and Jimmy Bennett as JJ Powell.“

OFF THE MAP – Executive producer Shonda Rhimes (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Private Practice”) brings you an uplifting medical drama that explores how far you have to go to truly heal. In a tiny town in the South American jungle five doctors who have lost their way will go to the ends of the earth to try to remember the reasons why they wanted to become doctors in the first place.

Also: “Off the Map” stars Martin Henderson as Ben Keeton, Caroline Dhavernas as Lily Brenner (“Wonderfalls”), Enrique Murciano as Manny Diaz, Mamie Gummer as Mina Minard, Jason George as Otis Cole, Valerie Cruz as Zita (Zee) and Jose Julian as Charlie.

Also: Maggie Q as Nikita, Lyndsy Fonseca as Alex (“Kick-Ass”), Shane West as Michael (“ER”), Aaron Stanford as Birkhoff (“X-Men 2”), Ashton Holmes as Thom, Tiffany Hines as Jaden, with Melinda Clarke as Amanda (“The O.C.”) and Xander Berkeley as Percy (“Terminator 2”).

ExtraExtra: FutonCritic has their First Look with the same thoughts I had while reading the script: the story is strangely told instead of shown, but the mood, subject matter, and twist at the end make us curious to see more. With a good cast, this show that may need time to grow into it’s premise.+ Nikita trailer.+ This curiously goes along with what TVGuide said on how the pilot reminded them of Dollhouse.+

If you’re not allergic to hearing the soundtrack before the movie, it was released on June 8th.+ This one is much better than the last one, in my opinion. Examiner has a positive review as well, so you don’t have to take my word for it.+ The first single by Muse, ‘Neutron Star Collision (Love is Forever)’ is also out along with the music video. For those keeping score, Muse has been on each of the three Twilight soundtracks.+

Also: Blair Underwood (“Dirty Sexy Money”); Laura Innes (“ER”), Scott Patterson (“Gilmore Girls”). Ian Anthony Dale (“Daybreak”) and Zeljko Ivanek (“Damages”).

UNDERCOVERS – Outwardly, Steven Bloom (Boris Kodjoe, “Resident Evil: Afterlife”) and his wife, Samantha (Gugu Mbatha-Raw, “Doctor Who”), are a typical married couple, secretly the duo were two of the CIA’s best spies until they fell in love on the job five years ago and retired. The pair is thrust back into the world of espionage as they follow leads that span the globe.

Also: Acclaimed writer/producer/director J.J. Abrams (“Star Trek,” “Fringe,” “Lost,” “Alias”) serves as co-writer, executive producer – and also directs – his first direction of a TV series pilot since “Lost”.

ExtraExtra: FutonCritic says what I was thinking: too lighthearted to be the usual Abrams fare. I’m in, but not as excited as I would have hoped to be.+

CHASE – “Chase” is a fast-paced drama from Emmy Award-winning executive producer Jerry Bruckheimer. Kelli Giddish (“Past Life”) stars as U.S. Marshal Annie Frost, whose Texas upbringing help her track down the violent criminals on the run.

Also: Cole Hauser (“K-Ville”), Amaury Nolasco (“Prison Break”), Rose Rollins (“The L Word”) and Jesse Metcalfe (“Desperate Housewives”). David Nutter (“The X-Files”,”Roswell”) directed and is executive producer of the pilot.

THE CAPE – “The Cape” is a one-hour drama series starring David Lyons (“ER”) as Vince Faraday, an honest cop who finds himself framed for a series of murders and presumed dead. Fueled by a desire to reunite with his family and to battle the criminal forces that have overtaken Palm City, Faraday becomes “The Cape” his son’s favorite comic book superhero — and takes the law into his own hands.

Also: James Frain (“The Tudors”), Keith David (“Death at a Funeral”), Summer Glau (“Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles”) Dorian Missick (“Six Degrees”).

ExtraExtra: Terra Nova has hired Alex Graves who directed the pilot of Fringe to begin shooting at the end of the summer.+ SyFy also has 12 things we know about Terra Nova with a few more deets.+

Also: Michael Chiklis (“The Shield”) stars as Jim Powell, Julie Benz (“Dexter”) as Stephanie Powell, Romany Malco (“The 40-Year-Old Virgin”) as George St. Cloud, Autumn Reeser (“The O.C.”) as Katie Andrews, Kay Panabaker as Daphne Powell, and Jimmy Bennett as JJ Powell.“

OFF THE MAP – Executive producer Shonda Rhimes (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Private Practice”) brings you an uplifting medical drama that explores how far you have to go to truly heal. In a tiny town in the South American jungle five doctors who have lost their way will go to the ends of the earth to try to remember the reasons why they wanted to become doctors in the first place.

Also: “Off the Map” stars Martin Henderson as Ben Keeton, Caroline Dhavernas as Lily Brenner (“Wonderfalls”), Enrique Murciano as Manny Diaz, Mamie Gummer as Mina Minard, Jason George as Otis Cole, Valerie Cruz as Zita (Zee) and Jose Julian as Charlie.

Also: Maggie Q as Nikita, Lyndsy Fonseca as Alex (“Kick-Ass”), Shane West as Michael (“ER”), Aaron Stanford as Birkhoff (“X-Men 2”), Ashton Holmes as Thom, Tiffany Hines as Jaden, with Melinda Clarke as Amanda (“The O.C.”) and Xander Berkeley as Percy (“Terminator 2”).

ExtraExtra: FutonCritic has their First Look with the same thoughts I had while reading the script: the story is strangely told instead of shown, but the mood, subject matter, and twist at the end make us curious to see more. With a good cast, this show that may need time to grow into it’s premise.+ Nikita trailer.+ This curiously goes along with what TVGuide said on how the pilot reminded them of Dollhouse.+

The Vampire Diaries (s2ep01): The Return
★★★★
The second season begins with Elena discovering her uncle’s bloody body and learning Jeremy’s fate. Meanwhile, this Caroline is taken to the hospital following a car accident, and Tyler’s mysterious uncle Mason arrives in town.

Nikita (s1ep01): Pilot
★★★
A spy returns to exact revenge on the clandestine agency that betrayed her after training her to be an assassin. In the pilot episode, Nikita (Maggie Q) emerges from three years of hiding to send a message to her former handlers at Division. Meanwhile, new recruit Alex begins her training at Division and discovers what the agency has planned for her future.

John: Behind you!

We open on the same finale scenes, but from another POV and in real time. The show’s inner horror movie is loose as Katherine plays mind games with Elena. She’s still one scary ass mofo after all this time. There’s also a new title sequence/font, but I kind of miss the old one already. 

Stefan/Elena! I *squeed* on seeing them onscreen again. Glad Jeremy is ok and the vamp blood actually healed him. Testament to the show, but I wasn’t really sure if they’d go the vamp route. Maybe this close call will him to grow up? And what’s up with No More Mr. Nice Stefan?

Matt! So underrated as a male character on this show just because he’s the non-vamp nice guy. I love him with Caroline, too. And Damon being friendly with Caroline’s mom and in with the council still amuses me. I’m going to love when they finally realize he’s a vampire.

Bonnie: Do it. This is Caroline. Ok? We can’t let her die. Do it.
Damon: If I do this, you and me, we call a truce?
Bonnie: No, but you’ll do it anyway. For Elena.

Sadly, Bonnie needs to regrow on me. I just haven’t loved her actions as of late. Yes, she’s all badass now, but really at what cost? And now her guilt is causing her to make rash decisions like give Caroline vampire blood. No good can come of this.

Elena: When were you at the house?
Damon: Really? Earlier? We were talking, all cathartic, feelings exposed. Come on, we kissed, Elena.
Elena: Ok…I don’t have time for this, Damon.
Damon: Hey, if you want to forget it happened, fine. But I can’t.

I loved how long it took Damon to realize Elena doesn’t know what anyone is talking about. Thus, I also loved how quickly Stefan notices it’s Katherine and not Elena. Glad one of the two can tell. And that was an awesome vamp out from Stefan and confrontation, btw. +1

Damon: To risk another frown line encroaching on that very crowded forehead… we kissed.

Oh Damon, when things don’t go his way he freaks out. But Stefan also really shouldn’t let Damon get to him. Finally Elena realizes keeping Jeremy in the dark is not a good thing. I know she’s protecting her little brother, but he’s really safer in the know.

Matt and Caroline are such cuteness, and with Bonnie, too. But where is Elena? I think it’s telling that she’s the odd one out, off getting dragged further and further into the supernatural world away from normalcy.

I love these moments with the adult characters of Mystic Falls. It adds another layer of depth to the show and helps to ground it. And I’m all for Tyler having his own storyline, but this new uncle character will have to grow on me.

John: My daughter should have driven a stake through your heart by now. I haven’t spoke with Katherine directly. She never trusted me. So either kill me, or get out. Because I can’t stand the sight of you with my daughter.

Elena: You see the problem with such hatred? It’s gonna get you killed.

I know some people don’t like him, but I think John is a fascinating character. He’s surrounded by vamps from his ex to his daughter’s boyfriend, and still his hate knows no bounds. He even expects his daughter and son to follow his beliefs.

Stefan: Now take my advice—leave town. Elena doesn’t want you here. You have about 24 hours before the blood leaves your system. That’s enough time to disappear. Or so help me god, I will turn you into a vampire and I will watch you hate yourself more than you already do. Clock starts now.

Granted, with Stefan’s next actions, it’s not hard to see why he hates vamps. What Stefan just did, well, I don’t know what to make of it. This is going to come back and bite everyone in the ass. By the end of this season I wonder if Elena will be on the outs with both brothers.

Katherine: Oh, his eyes are so blue!

Yes, Katherine. I loved her quick shift into normal when Bonnie made the doors open. Scary how easily she’s able to pretend she’s Elena. Her fondness for Matt is amusing. And Katherine must be crazy if she actually was surprised that Stefan didn’t come rushing to her.

Elena: That’s not a surprise. I’m surprised that you thought I’d kiss you back.

And same thing for Damon, he must be crazy if he thought Elena would kiss him. And poor, Tyler. Question, why are there always these Tyler and Jeremy scenes? Are they writers up to something? An alliance perhaps between the two characters?

Stefan: Don’t flirt with me, Katherine. I’m not Damon. I haven’t spent 145 years obsessed with you.

Katherine: Yeah. Based on your choice of women, I’d say otherwise. Though I’ll admit, it does bother me that you’ve fallen in love with somebody else.

Touche. I’ve always believed in Stefan’s love for Elena, but it does beg the question as to how one would fall in love with your ex’s doppleganger.

Katherine: You want to know why I’m here, Stefan?  I came back for you.

Stefan: Well, the problem, Katherine…is that I hate you.

Katherine: You hate me, huh? That sounds like the beginning of a love story, Stefan, not the end of one.

I also think there’s more to Stefan being in love with Katherine than anyone knows. He thinks he was compelled, but was he really? Hate seems to be the beginning of two love stories, Stefan and Katherine, and later Elena and Damon. Could this triangle now be a square?

Damon: I kissed Elena.

Stefan: Because you feel something for her. Because you actually care. And I’m not going to let Katherine come in here and destroy that part of you that has finally, after all of this time, willing to feel something. She’ll try to break you. She’ll try to break us. And how we respond to that will define us. It’s our choice. So, no. I’m not going to fight you.

I love, Stefan. He always puts everything into perspective and is certainly the more level headed of the two. If they were both like Damon, we’d all be in big trouble.

John is heading out, but I’m sure he’ll be back. He brings up one of the questions I’ve been wondering, how did Jeremy’s father die with the ring on? There’s more to this than he’s telling. I don’t believe it was all an accident.

Which way will Jeremy go? Follow in his family’s footsteps or not? Which way will Tyler go? Can he help but follow in his family’s footsteps? Can he get control of his anger?

Katherine: The truth is, I’ve never loved you. It was always Stefan.

First dagger. I don’t ship Elena/Damon, but Katherine/Damon is pretty hot. She tells Stefan she’s been avoiding Damon, so I get the feeling she shows up at the end for a reason. It’s like Stefan said, she’ll try to split them up. And really, they’re letting her.

Elena: No, no, no, Damon. I care about you. Listen to me, I care about you. I do, but…I love Stefan. It’s always going to be Stefan.

Second dagger. Damon still hasn’t learned, part of becoming more human is letting your guard down and maybe getting hurt as a result.

Stefan: He saw the ring, that’s why he did it. He knew.

Elena: He didn’t see the ring.

Stefan: It’s Katherine. She got under his skin. She undid everything that was good about him.

Elena: There is nothing good about him. Stefan, not anymore. He’s decided what he wants. He doesn’t want to feel, he wants to be hated. It’s just easier that way. He got his wish. I hate him, Stefan."

Did Damon know Jeremy was wearing the family ring? I think not. I can’t help compare the scene to Buffy/Spike in ‘Seeing Red’. Not as bad, but the same kind of idea.

Do you think Damon is right and Elena’s been giving him signs? Can Damon be forgiven for this? Why is Stefan defending him?

Katherine: Game on.

Double whammy, Katherine smothering poor Carolina with a pillow. Of course she’s not dead, not with vamp blood in her system, but wow. Why is she always getting the short end of every stick? And OMG, poor Matt, too.

Nikita: My name is Nikita. Six years ago I was taken out of prison and forced by a covert unit of the government to be an assassin. Three years ago I escaped and have been hunted ever since. I was the first recruit to get out. I’m going to make certain I’m not the last.

Thus is the premise of this fourth incarnation, which had better have a new take if it wants to succeed. Lucky for them, the story of Nikita after she leaves Division has never been told. So, Nikita’s been MIA, but she’s back now to take down Division and help others like her escape. …Hm.

Cue Alex, just another girl who gets ‘recruited’ after a robbery goes wrong and someone dies. We later learn Alex actually shares a similar backstory with Nikita. Interesting.

Michael: Because you’re a young attractive white female, with virtually no personal ties or paper trail. […] What really managed to grab our attention though was how you managed to kill a criminal we were about to take out.

We also meet Michael who is part of Division and watches as Alex gets brought in. It’s clear he’s been through this many times before, but something says he’s not completely ok with it. And unfortunately for Division, you’re only as strong as your weakest link…

Michael: Your life is over, Alex. I’m here to offer you a new one. But you have to be willing to earn it.
Alex: What have I gotta do?
Michael: Learn. How not to sound like a teen meth-whore, for starters. Learn to stand up straight. Learn how to walk right. Learn how to talk right. Learn how to serve your country… instead of just yourself.

Enter Nikita, she’s the epitome of that. She’s had seven years of Division training and three years on the outside. But the question is, what has she been doing all this time?

Amusing aside, when Maggie Q suggested a one-piece for this scene, wardrobe gave her this one to wear, lol. And a slight nitpick, but why are female action stars so skinny these days? It borders on unbelievable. I’d like a little bit more muscle please.

Nikita: They told me they were giving me a second chance. They told me I’d be serving my country. What they didn’t tell me was they were training me to be an assassin. They’re probably telling some other girl the same thing right now.

One of the things going for this version is the two different stories that can be told through Nikita and Alex. What I don’t like though is how much Nikita’s backstory is like Alias. They really need to differentiate themselves from past spy shows and fast if they want viewers to continue.

Thom: None of us are volunteers.  […]  Meaning we need to stick together if we’re gonna make it through training.

Also, perhaps get rid of annoying characters. I’m not sure I like these new friends of Alex, yet. Plus, pandering to the teen demographic with the whole spy school drama is not going to give the show more credibility. That was a pretty awesome tray and fork moment though.

Amanda: And you’re beautiful. Michael was right about that much.
Alex: So what? You’re the one that’s supposed to teach me how to walk and talk, chew with my mouth closed?
Amanda: My name is Amanda, and I’m the one who’s going to show you how to embrace your beauty and use it to your advantage. Your journey begins right here in this chair.

Another thing I like about the show is the notable names amongst the cast. We have Maggie Q, Lyndsy Fonseca, Shane West, Melinda Clarke, Xander Berkeley, and Aaron Stanford. I look forward to seeing what they can do.

We haven’t seen enough of Amanda yet, but I like that she provides a woman perspective and seemingly softer edge to Division. And it’s obvious she’s not only smart but deadly. I look forward to seeing more of her.

Birkhoff: Just understand that if you do this, you’re gonna have to kill your way though a whole lot of people you know.

I so forgot Aaron Stanford was in this show until after the episode was over. The interrogation was possibly my favorite scene of the episode, and brought a more human quality to Nikita and her mission. The stakes just got a little higher in my opinion.

Jaden: Division doesn’t allow relationships.

Clearly, what Division doesn’t know… I’m sure it won’t be long before Alex gets a love interest.

Amanda: We’re not murderers.  We’re protectors.  We protect our home.
Alex: What home?”
Amanda: Home is where you stop running. […]  It begins with a promise.  You promise to put down the shears.  I promise to forget that this ever happened.  And we begin again.  Welcome home.

For the weak minded I’m sure that sentimental tactic will work. Especially for the type of kids Division targets. Instead I love that Alex used it to seal the deal.

Michael: Safety on. Toss it behind you, don’t turn around. Get down on the ground. Slowly. Spread your arms and your legs.
Nikita: Just like old times, huh?
Michael: Shut up. You were free. You had gotten out, you were gone. What the hell are you doing back here?

I’m intrigued by the Michael/Nikita relationship. I’m left cold by her as a character, but maybe with more of her backstory that’ll change. I’m more interested in Michael and his motivations.

Alex: I’m never gonna get this.
Michael: Yeah, someone told me that once.  She was wrong too.  Remember, you’re just getting started.
…Alex: Damn right.

Reading the script, even I was surprised by the ending. Nikita set this up perfectly. She knew Michael would take Alex under his wing. What I want to know is how close are Nikita and Michael really? Any UST? How close in age?And kudos to Alex who played it well.

So, Nikita was the pig who left her at the beginning? Rewatching that opening scene, I wonder how long had Alex been doing missions with Nikita? Is that what she’s been doing for three years?

I don’t love the show yet. I really think it needs to step up its game to that next level. I want to see more depth of character and themes. But at least this show doesn’t make me wish I was watching Alias instead like Covert Affairs and Undercovers did.

Nikita (s1ep01): Pilot
★★★
A spy returns to exact revenge on the clandestine agency that betrayed her after training her to be an assassin. In the pilot episode, Nikita (Maggie Q) emerges from three years of hiding to send a message to her former handlers at Division. Meanwhile, new recruit Alex begins her training at Division and discovers what the agency has planned for her future.

John: Behind you!

We open on the same finale scenes, but from another POV and in real time. The show’s inner horror movie is loose as Katherine plays mind games with Elena. She’s still one scary ass mofo after all this time. There’s also a new title sequence/font, but I kind of miss the old one already. 

Stefan/Elena! I *squeed* on seeing them onscreen again. Glad Jeremy is ok and the vamp blood actually healed him. Testament to the show, but I wasn’t really sure if they’d go the vamp route. Maybe this close call will him to grow up? And what’s up with No More Mr. Nice Stefan?

Matt! So underrated as a male character on this show just because he’s the non-vamp nice guy. I love him with Caroline, too. And Damon being friendly with Caroline’s mom and in with the council still amuses me. I’m going to love when they finally realize he’s a vampire.

Bonnie: Do it. This is Caroline. Ok? We can’t let her die. Do it.
Damon: If I do this, you and me, we call a truce?
Bonnie: No, but you’ll do it anyway. For Elena.

Sadly, Bonnie needs to regrow on me. I just haven’t loved her actions as of late. Yes, she’s all badass now, but really at what cost? And now her guilt is causing her to make rash decisions like give Caroline vampire blood. No good can come of this.

Elena: When were you at the house?
Damon: Really? Earlier? We were talking, all cathartic, feelings exposed. Come on, we kissed, Elena.
Elena: Ok…I don’t have time for this, Damon.
Damon: Hey, if you want to forget it happened, fine. But I can’t.

I loved how long it took Damon to realize Elena doesn’t know what anyone is talking about. Thus, I also loved how quickly Stefan notices it’s Katherine and not Elena. Glad one of the two can tell. And that was an awesome vamp out from Stefan and confrontation, btw. +1

Damon: To risk another frown line encroaching on that very crowded forehead… we kissed.

Oh Damon, when things don’t go his way he freaks out. But Stefan also really shouldn’t let Damon get to him. Finally Elena realizes keeping Jeremy in the dark is not a good thing. I know she’s protecting her little brother, but he’s really safer in the know.

Matt and Caroline are such cuteness, and with Bonnie, too. But where is Elena? I think it’s telling that she’s the odd one out, off getting dragged further and further into the supernatural world away from normalcy.

I love these moments with the adult characters of Mystic Falls. It adds another layer of depth to the show and helps to ground it. And I’m all for Tyler having his own storyline, but this new uncle character will have to grow on me.

John: My daughter should have driven a stake through your heart by now. I haven’t spoke with Katherine directly. She never trusted me. So either kill me, or get out. Because I can’t stand the sight of you with my daughter.

Elena: You see the problem with such hatred? It’s gonna get you killed.

I know some people don’t like him, but I think John is a fascinating character. He’s surrounded by vamps from his ex to his daughter’s boyfriend, and still his hate knows no bounds. He even expects his daughter and son to follow his beliefs.

Stefan: Now take my advice—leave town. Elena doesn’t want you here. You have about 24 hours before the blood leaves your system. That’s enough time to disappear. Or so help me god, I will turn you into a vampire and I will watch you hate yourself more than you already do. Clock starts now.

Granted, with Stefan’s next actions, it’s not hard to see why he hates vamps. What Stefan just did, well, I don’t know what to make of it. This is going to come back and bite everyone in the ass. By the end of this season I wonder if Elena will be on the outs with both brothers.

Katherine: Oh, his eyes are so blue!

Yes, Katherine. I loved her quick shift into normal when Bonnie made the doors open. Scary how easily she’s able to pretend she’s Elena. Her fondness for Matt is amusing. And Katherine must be crazy if she actually was surprised that Stefan didn’t come rushing to her.

Elena: That’s not a surprise. I’m surprised that you thought I’d kiss you back.

And same thing for Damon, he must be crazy if he thought Elena would kiss him. And poor, Tyler. Question, why are there always these Tyler and Jeremy scenes? Are they writers up to something? An alliance perhaps between the two characters?

Stefan: Don’t flirt with me, Katherine. I’m not Damon. I haven’t spent 145 years obsessed with you.

Katherine: Yeah. Based on your choice of women, I’d say otherwise. Though I’ll admit, it does bother me that you’ve fallen in love with somebody else.

Touche. I’ve always believed in Stefan’s love for Elena, but it does beg the question as to how one would fall in love with your ex’s doppleganger.

Katherine: You want to know why I’m here, Stefan?  I came back for you.

Stefan: Well, the problem, Katherine…is that I hate you.

Katherine: You hate me, huh? That sounds like the beginning of a love story, Stefan, not the end of one.

I also think there’s more to Stefan being in love with Katherine than anyone knows. He thinks he was compelled, but was he really?

Damon: I kissed Elena.

Stefan: Because you feel something for her. Because you actually care. And I’m not going to let Katherine come in here and destroy that part of you that has finally, after all of this time, willing to feel something. She’ll try to break you. She’ll try to break us. And how we respond to that will define us. It’s our choice. So, no. I’m not going to fight you.

I love, Stefan. He always puts everything into perspective and is certainly the more level headed of the two. If they were both like Damon, we’d all be in big trouble.

John is heading out, but I’m sure he’ll be back. He brings up one of the questions I’ve been wondering, how did Jeremy’s father die with the ring on? There’s more to this than he’s telling. I don’t believe it was all an accident.

Which way will Jeremy go? Follow in his family’s footsteps or not? Which way will Tyler go? Can he help but follow in his family’s footsteps? Can he get control of his anger?

Katherine: The truth is, I’ve never loved you. It was always Stefan.

First dagger. I don’t ship Elena/Damon, but Katherine/Damon is pretty hot. She tells Stefan she’s been avoiding Damon, so I get the feeling she shows up at the end for a reason. It’s like Stefan said, she’ll try to split them up. And really, they’re letting her.

Elena: No, no, no, Damon. I care about you. Listen to me, I care about you. I do, but…I love Stefan. It’s always going to be Stefan.

Second dagger. Damon still hasn’t learned, part of becoming more human is letting your guard down and maybe getting hurt as a result.

Stefan: He saw the ring, that’s why he did it. He knew.

Elena: He didn’t see the ring.

Stefan: It’s Katherine. She got under his skin. She undid everything that was good about him.

Elena: There is nothing good about him. Stefan, not anymore. He’s decided what he wants. He doesn’t want to feel, he wants to be hated. It’s just easier that way. He got his wish. I hate him, Stefan."

Did Damon know Jeremy was wearing the family ring? I think not. I can’t help compare the scene to Buffy/Spike in ‘Seeing Red’. Not as bad, but the same kind of idea.

Do you think Damon is right and Elena’s been giving him signs? Can Damon be forgiven for this? Why is Stefan defending him?

Katherine: Game on.

Double whammy, Katherine smothering poor Carolina with a pillow. Of course she’s not dead, not with vamp blood in her system, but wow. Why is she always getting the short end of every stick? And OMG, poor Matt, too.

Nikita: My name is Nikita. Six years ago I was taken out of prison and forced by a covert unit of the government to be an assassin. Three years ago I escaped and have been hunted ever since. I was the first recruit to get out. I’m going to make certain I’m not the last.

Thus is the premise of this fourth incarnation, which had better have a new take if it wants to succeed. Lucky for them, the story of Nikita after she leaves Division has never been told. So, Nikita’s been MIA, but she’s back now to take down Division and help others like her escape. …Hm.

Cue Alex, just another girl who gets ‘recruited’ after a robbery goes wrong and someone dies. We later learn Alex actually shares a similar backstory with Nikita. Interesting.

Michael: Because you’re a young attractive white female, with virtually no personal ties or paper trail. […] What really managed to grab our attention though was how you managed to kill a criminal we were about to take out.

We also meet Michael who is part of Division and watches as Alex gets brought in. It’s clear he’s been through this many times before, but something says he’s not completely ok with it. And unfortunately for Division, you’re only as strong as your weakest link…

Michael: Your life is over, Alex. I’m here to offer you a new one. But you have to be willing to earn it.
Alex: What have I gotta do?
Michael: Learn. How not to sound like a teen meth-whore, for starters. Learn to stand up straight. Learn how to walk right. Learn how to talk right. Learn how to serve your country… instead of just yourself.

Enter Nikita, she’s the epitome of that. She’s had seven years of Division training and three years on the outside. But the question is, what has she been doing all this time?

Amusing aside, when Maggie Q suggested a one-piece for this scene, wardrobe gave her this one to wear, lol. And a slight nitpick, but why are female action stars so skinny these days? It borders on unbelievable. I’d like a little bit more muscle please.

Nikita: They told me they were giving me a second chance. They told me I’d be serving my country. What they didn’t tell me was they were training me to be an assassin. They’re probably telling some other girl the same thing right now.

One of the things going for this version is the two different stories that can be told through Nikita and Alex. What I don’t like though is how much Nikita’s backstory is like Alias. They really need to differentiate themselves from past spy shows and fast if they want viewers to continue.

Thom: None of us are volunteers.  […]  Meaning we need to stick together if we’re gonna make it through training.

Also, perhaps get rid of annoying characters. I’m not sure I like these new friends of Alex, yet. Plus, pandering to the teen demographic with the whole spy school drama is not going to give the show more credibility. That was a pretty awesome tray and fork moment though.

Amanda: And you’re beautiful. Michael was right about that much.
Alex: So what? You’re the one that’s supposed to teach me how to walk and talk, chew with my mouth closed?
Amanda: My name is Amanda, and I’m the one who’s going to show you how to embrace your beauty and use it to your advantage. Your journey begins right here in this chair.

Another thing I like about the show is the notable names amongst the cast. We have Maggie Q, Lyndsy Fonseca, Shane West, Melinda Clarke, Xander Berkeley, and Aaron Stanford. I look forward to seeing what they can do.

We haven’t seen enough of Amanda yet, but I like that she provides a woman perspective and seemingly softer edge to Division. And it’s obvious she’s not only smart but deadly. I look forward to seeing more of her.

Birkhoff: Just understand that if you do this, you’re gonna have to kill your way though a whole lot of people you know.

I so forgot Aaron Stanford was in this show until after the episode was over. The interrogation was possibly my favorite scene of the episode, and brought a more human quality to Nikita and her mission. The stakes just got a little higher in my opinion.

Jaden: Division doesn’t allow relationships.

Clearly, what Division doesn’t know… I’m sure it won’t be long before Alex gets a love interest.

Amanda: We’re not murderers.  We’re protectors.  We protect our home.
Alex: What home?”
Amanda: Home is where you stop running. […]  It begins with a promise.  You promise to put down the shears.  I promise to forget that this ever happened.  And we begin again.  Welcome home.

For the weak minded I’m sure that sentimental tactic will work. Especially for the type of kids Division targets. Instead I love that Alex used it to seal the deal.

Michael: Safety on. Toss it behind you, don’t turn around. Get down on the ground. Slowly. Spread your arms and your legs.
Nikita: Just like old times, huh?
Michael: Shut up. You were free. You had gotten out, you were gone. What the hell are you doing back here?

I’m intrigued by the Michael/Nikita relationship. I’m left cold by her as a character, but maybe with more of her backstory that’ll change. I’m more interested in Michael and his motivations.

Alex: I’m never gonna get this.
Michael: Yeah, someone told me that once.  She was wrong too.  Remember, you’re just getting started.
…Alex: Damn right.

Reading the script, even I was surprised by the ending. Nikita set this up perfectly. She knew Michael would take Alex under his wing. What I want to know is how close are Nikita and Michael really? Any UST? How close in age?And kudos to Alex who played it well.

So, Nikita was the pig who left her at the beginning? Rewatching that opening scene, I wonder how long had Alex been doing missions with Nikita? Is that what she’s been doing for three years?

I don’t love the show yet. I really think it needs to step up its game to that next level. I want to see more depth of character and themes. But at least this show doesn’t make me wish I was watching Alias instead like Covert Affairs and Undercovers did.

Nikita (s1ep01): Pilot
★★★
A spy returns to exact revenge on the clandestine agency that betrayed her after training her to be an assassin. In the pilot episode, thumb Nikita (Maggie Q) emerges from three years of hiding to send a message to her former handlers at Division. Meanwhile, new recruit Alex begins her training at Division and discovers what the agency has planned for her future.

John: Behind you!

We open on the same finale scenes, but from another POV and in real time. The show’s inner horror movie is loose as Katherine plays mind games with Elena. She’s still one scary ass mofo after all this time. There’s also a new title sequence/font, but I kind of miss the old one already. 

Stefan/Elena! I *squeed* on seeing them onscreen again. Glad Jeremy is ok and the vamp blood actually healed him. Testament to the show, but I wasn’t really sure if they’d go the vamp route. Maybe this close call will him to grow up? And what’s up with No More Mr. Nice Stefan?

Matt! So underrated as a male character on this show just because he’s the non-vamp nice guy. I love him with Caroline, too. And Damon being friendly with Caroline’s mom and in with the council still amuses me. I’m going to love when they finally realize he’s a vampire.

Bonnie: Do it. This is Caroline. Ok? We can’t let her die. Do it.
Damon: If I do this, you and me, we call a truce?
Bonnie: No, but you’ll do it anyway. For Elena.

Sadly, Bonnie needs to regrow on me. I just haven’t loved her actions as of late. Yes, she’s all badass now, but really at what cost? And now her guilt is causing her to make rash decisions like give Caroline vampire blood. No good can come of this.

Elena: When were you at the house?
Damon: Really? Earlier? We were talking, all cathartic, feelings exposed. Come on, we kissed, Elena.
Elena: Ok…I don’t have time for this, Damon.
Damon: Hey, if you want to forget it happened, fine. But I can’t.

I loved how long it took Damon to realize Elena doesn’t know what anyone is talking about. Thus, I also loved how quickly Stefan notices it’s Katherine and not Elena. Glad one of the two can tell. And that was an awesome vamp out from Stefan and confrontation, btw. +1

Damon: To risk another frown line encroaching on that very crowded forehead… we kissed.

Oh Damon, when things don’t go his way he freaks out. But Stefan also really shouldn’t let Damon get to him. Finally Elena realizes keeping Jeremy in the dark is not a good thing. I know she’s protecting her little brother, but he’s really safer in the know.

Matt and Caroline are such cuteness, and with Bonnie, too. But where is Elena? I think it’s telling that she’s the odd one out, off getting dragged further and further into the supernatural world away from normalcy.

I love these moments with the adult characters of Mystic Falls. It adds another layer of depth to the show and helps to ground it. And I’m all for Tyler having his own storyline, but this new uncle character will have to grow on me.

John: My daughter should have driven a stake through your heart by now. I haven’t spoke with Katherine directly. She never trusted me. So either kill me, or get out. Because I can’t stand the sight of you with my daughter.

Elena: You see the problem with such hatred? It’s gonna get you killed.

I know some people don’t like him, but I think John is a fascinating character. He’s surrounded by vamps from his ex to his daughter’s boyfriend, and still his hate knows no bounds. He even expects his daughter and son to follow his beliefs.

Stefan: Now take my advice—leave town. Elena doesn’t want you here. You have about 24 hours before the blood leaves your system. That’s enough time to disappear. Or so help me god, I will turn you into a vampire and I will watch you hate yourself more than you already do. Clock starts now.

Granted, with Stefan’s next actions, it’s not hard to see why he hates vamps. What Stefan just did, well, I don’t know what to make of it. This is going to come back and bite everyone in the ass. By the end of this season I wonder if Elena will be on the outs with both brothers.

Katherine: Oh, his eyes are so blue!

Yes, Katherine. I loved her quick shift into normal when Bonnie made the doors open. Scary how easily she’s able to pretend she’s Elena. Her fondness for Matt is amusing. And Katherine must be crazy if she actually was surprised that Stefan didn’t come rushing to her.

Elena: That’s not a surprise. I’m surprised that you thought I’d kiss you back.

And same thing for Damon, he must be crazy if he thought Elena would kiss him. And poor, Tyler. Question, why are there always these Tyler and Jeremy scenes? Are they writers up to something? An alliance perhaps between the two characters?

Stefan: Don’t flirt with me, Katherine. I’m not Damon. I haven’t spent 145 years obsessed with you.

Katherine: Yeah. Based on your choice of women, I’d say otherwise. Though I’ll admit, it does bother me that you’ve fallen in love with somebody else.

Touche. I’ve always believed in Stefan’s love for Elena, but it does beg the question as to how one would fall in love with your ex’s doppleganger.

Katherine: You want to know why I’m here, Stefan?  I came back for you.

Stefan: Well, the problem, Katherine…is that I hate you.

Katherine: You hate me, huh? That sounds like the beginning of a love story, Stefan, not the end of one.

I also think there’s more to Stefan being in love with Katherine than anyone knows. He thinks he was compelled, but was he really?

Damon: I kissed Elena.

Stefan: Because you feel something for her. Because you actually care. And I’m not going to let Katherine come in here and destroy that part of you that has finally, after all of this time, willing to feel something. She’ll try to break you. She’ll try to break us. And how we respond to that will define us. It’s our choice. So, no. I’m not going to fight you.

I love, Stefan. He always puts everything into perspective and is certainly the more level headed of the two. If they were both like Damon, we’d all be in big trouble.

John is heading out, but I’m sure he’ll be back. He brings up one of the questions I’ve been wondering, how did Jeremy’s father die with the ring on? There’s more to this than he’s telling. I don’t believe it was all an accident.

Which way will Jeremy go? Follow in his family’s footsteps or not? Which way will Tyler go? Can he help but follow in his family’s footsteps? Can he get control of his anger?

Katherine: The truth is, I’ve never loved you. It was always Stefan.

First dagger. I don’t ship Elena/Damon, but Katherine/Damon is pretty hot. She tells Stefan she’s been avoiding Damon, so I get the feeling she shows up at the end for a reason. It’s like Stefan said, she’ll try to split them up. And really, they’re letting her.

Elena: No, no, no, Damon. I care about you. Listen to me, I care about you. I do, but…I love Stefan. It’s always going to be Stefan.

Second dagger. Damon still hasn’t learned, part of becoming more human is letting your guard down and maybe getting hurt as a result.

Stefan: He saw the ring, that’s why he did it. He knew.

Elena: He didn’t see the ring.

Stefan: It’s Katherine. She got under his skin. She undid everything that was good about him.

Elena: There is nothing good about him. Stefan, not anymore. He’s decided what he wants. He doesn’t want to feel, he wants to be hated. It’s just easier that way. He got his wish. I hate him, Stefan."

Did Damon know Jeremy was wearing the family ring? I think not. I can’t help compare the scene to Buffy/Spike in ‘Seeing Red’. Not as bad, but the same kind of idea.

Do you think Damon is right and Elena’s been giving him signs? Can Damon be forgiven for this? Why is Stefan defending him?

Katherine: Game on.

Double whammy, Katherine smothering poor Carolina with a pillow. Of course she’s not dead, not with vamp blood in her system, but wow. Why is she always getting the short end of every stick? And OMG, poor Matt, too.

Nikita: My name is Nikita. Six years ago I was taken out of prison and forced by a covert unit of the government to be an assassin. Three years ago I escaped and have been hunted ever since. I was the first recruit to get out. I’m going to make certain I’m not the last.

Thus is the premise of this fourth incarnation, which had better have a new take if it wants to succeed. Lucky for them, the story of Nikita after she leaves Division has never been told. So, Nikita’s been MIA, but she’s back now to take down Division and help others like her escape. …Hm.

Cue Alex, just another girl who gets ‘recruited’ after a robbery goes wrong and someone dies. We later learn Alex actually shares a similar backstory with Nikita. Interesting.

Michael: Because you’re a young attractive white female, with virtually no personal ties or paper trail. […] What really managed to grab our attention though was how you managed to kill a criminal we were about to take out.

We also meet Michael who is part of Division and watches as Alex gets brought in. It’s clear he’s been through this many times before, but something says he’s not completely ok with it. And unfortunately for Division, you’re only as strong as your weakest link…

Michael: Your life is over, Alex. I’m here to offer you a new one. But you have to be willing to earn it.
Alex: What have I gotta do?
Michael: Learn. How not to sound like a teen meth-whore, for starters. Learn to stand up straight. Learn how to walk right. Learn how to talk right. Learn how to serve your country… instead of just yourself.

Enter Nikita, she’s the epitome of that. She’s had seven years of Division training and three years on the outside. But the question is, what has she been doing all this time?

Amusing aside, when Maggie Q suggested a one-piece for this scene, wardrobe gave her this one to wear, lol. And a slight nitpick, but why are female action stars so skinny these days? It borders on unbelievable. I’d like a little bit more muscle please.

Nikita: They told me they were giving me a second chance. They told me I’d be serving my country. What they didn’t tell me was they were training me to be an assassin. They’re probably telling some other girl the same thing right now.

One of the things going for this version is the two different stories that can be told through Nikita and Alex. What I don’t like though is how much Nikita’s backstory is like Alias. They really need to differentiate themselves from past spy shows and fast if they want viewers to continue.

Thom: None of us are volunteers.  […]  Meaning we need to stick together if we’re gonna make it through training.

Also, perhaps get rid of annoying characters. I’m not sure I like these new friends of Alex, yet. Plus, pandering to the teen demographic with the whole spy school drama is not going to give the show more credibility. That was a pretty awesome tray and fork moment though.

Amanda: And you’re beautiful. Michael was right about that much.
Alex: So what? You’re the one that’s supposed to teach me how to walk and talk, chew with my mouth closed?
Amanda: My name is Amanda, and I’m the one who’s going to show you how to embrace your beauty and use it to your advantage. Your journey begins right here in this chair.

Another thing I like about the show is the notable names amongst the cast. We have Maggie Q, Lyndsy Fonseca, Shane West, Melinda Clarke, Xander Berkeley, and Aaron Stanford. I look forward to seeing what they can do.

We haven’t seen enough of Amanda yet, but I like that she provides a woman perspective and seemingly softer edge to Division. And it’s obvious she’s not only smart but deadly. I look forward to seeing more of her.

Birkhoff: Just understand that if you do this, you’re gonna have to kill your way though a whole lot of people you know.

I so forgot Aaron Stanford was in this show until after the episode was over. The interrogation was possibly my favorite scene of the episode, and brought a more human quality to Nikita and her mission. The stakes just got a little higher in my opinion.

Jaden: Division doesn’t allow relationships.

Clearly, what Division doesn’t know… I’m sure it won’t be long before Alex gets a love interest.

Amanda: We’re not murderers.  We’re protectors.  We protect our home.
Alex: What home?”
Amanda: Home is where you stop running. […]  It begins with a promise.  You promise to put down the shears.  I promise to forget that this ever happened.  And we begin again.  Welcome home.

For the weak minded I’m sure that sentimental tactic will work. Especially for the type of kids Division targets. Instead I love that Alex used it to seal the deal.

Michael: Safety on. Toss it behind you, don’t turn around. Get down on the ground. Slowly. Spread your arms and your legs.
Nikita: Just like old times, huh?
Michael: Shut up. You were free. You had gotten out, you were gone. What the hell are you doing back here?

I’m intrigued by the Michael/Nikita relationship. I’m left cold by her as a character, but maybe with more of her backstory that’ll change. I’m more interested in Michael and his motivations.

Alex: I’m never gonna get this.
Michael: Yeah, someone told me that once.  She was wrong too.  Remember, you’re just getting started.
…Alex: Damn right.

Reading the script, even I was surprised by the ending. Nikita set this up perfectly. She knew Michael would take Alex under his wing. What I want to know is how close are Nikita and Michael really? Any UST? How close in age?And kudos to Alex who played it well.

So, Nikita was the pig who left her at the beginning? Rewatching that opening scene, I wonder how long had Alex been doing missions with Nikita? Is that what she’s been doing for three years?

I don’t love the show yet. I really think it needs to step up its game to that next level. I want to see more depth of character and themes. But at least this show doesn’t make me wish I was watching Alias instead like Covert Affairs and Undercovers did.

Nikita (s1ep01): Pilot
★★★
A spy returns to exact revenge on the clandestine agency that betrayed her after training her to be an assassin. In the pilot episode, stomach Nikita (Maggie Q) emerges from three years of hiding to send a message to her former handlers at Division. Meanwhile, new recruit Alex begins her training at Division and discovers what the agency has planned for her future.

John: Behind you!

We open on the same finale scenes, but from another POV and in real time. The show’s inner horror movie is loose as Katherine plays mind games with Elena. She’s still one scary ass mofo after all this time. There’s also a new title sequence/font, but I kind of miss the old one already. 

Stefan/Elena! I *squeed* on seeing them onscreen again. Glad Jeremy is ok and the vamp blood actually healed him. Testament to the show, but I wasn’t really sure if they’d go the vamp route. Maybe this close call will him to grow up? And what’s up with No More Mr. Nice Stefan?

Matt! So underrated as a male character on this show just because he’s the non-vamp nice guy. I love him with Caroline, too. And Damon being friendly with Caroline’s mom and in with the council still amuses me. I’m going to love when they finally realize he’s a vampire.

Bonnie: Do it. This is Caroline. Ok? We can’t let her die. Do it.
Damon: If I do this, you and me, we call a truce?
Bonnie: No, but you’ll do it anyway. For Elena.

Sadly, Bonnie needs to regrow on me. I just haven’t loved her actions as of late. Yes, she’s all badass now, but really at what cost? And now her guilt is causing her to make rash decisions like give Caroline vampire blood. No good can come of this.

Elena: When were you at the house?
Damon: Really? Earlier? We were talking, all cathartic, feelings exposed. Come on, we kissed, Elena.
Elena: Ok…I don’t have time for this, Damon.
Damon: Hey, if you want to forget it happened, fine. But I can’t.

I loved how long it took Damon to realize Elena doesn’t know what anyone is talking about. Thus, I also loved how quickly Stefan notices it’s Katherine and not Elena. Glad one of the two can tell. And that was an awesome vamp out from Stefan and confrontation, btw. +1

Damon: To risk another frown line encroaching on that very crowded forehead… we kissed.

Oh Damon, when things don’t go his way he freaks out. But Stefan also really shouldn’t let Damon get to him. Finally Elena realizes keeping Jeremy in the dark is not a good thing. I know she’s protecting her little brother, but he’s really safer in the know.

Matt and Caroline are such cuteness, and with Bonnie, too. But where is Elena? I think it’s telling that she’s the odd one out, off getting dragged further and further into the supernatural world away from normalcy.

I love these moments with the adult characters of Mystic Falls. It adds another layer of depth to the show and helps to ground it. And I’m all for Tyler having his own storyline, but this new uncle character will have to grow on me.

John: My daughter should have driven a stake through your heart by now. I haven’t spoke with Katherine directly. She never trusted me. So either kill me, or get out. Because I can’t stand the sight of you with my daughter.

Elena: You see the problem with such hatred? It’s gonna get you killed.

I know some people don’t like him, but I think John is a fascinating character. He’s surrounded by vamps from his ex to his daughter’s boyfriend, and still his hate knows no bounds. He even expects his daughter and son to follow his beliefs.

Stefan: Now take my advice—leave town. Elena doesn’t want you here. You have about 24 hours before the blood leaves your system. That’s enough time to disappear. Or so help me god, I will turn you into a vampire and I will watch you hate yourself more than you already do. Clock starts now.

Granted, with Stefan’s next actions, it’s not hard to see why he hates vamps. What Stefan just did, well, I don’t know what to make of it. This is going to come back and bite everyone in the ass. By the end of this season I wonder if Elena will be on the outs with both brothers.

Katherine: Oh, his eyes are so blue!

Yes, Katherine. I loved her quick shift into normal when Bonnie made the doors open. Scary how easily she’s able to pretend she’s Elena. Her fondness for Matt is amusing. And Katherine must be crazy if she actually was surprised that Stefan didn’t come rushing to her.

Elena: That’s not a surprise. I’m surprised that you thought I’d kiss you back.

And same thing for Damon, he must be crazy if he thought Elena would kiss him. And poor, Tyler. Question, why are there always these Tyler and Jeremy scenes? Are they writers up to something? An alliance perhaps between the two characters?

Stefan: Don’t flirt with me, Katherine. I’m not Damon. I haven’t spent 145 years obsessed with you.

Katherine: Yeah. Based on your choice of women, I’d say otherwise. Though I’ll admit, it does bother me that you’ve fallen in love with somebody else.

Touche. I’ve always believed in Stefan’s love for Elena, but it does beg the question as to how one would fall in love with your ex’s doppleganger.

Katherine: You want to know why I’m here, Stefan?  I came back for you.

Stefan: Well, the problem, Katherine…is that I hate you.

Katherine: You hate me, huh? That sounds like the beginning of a love story, Stefan, not the end of one.

I also think there’s more to Stefan being in love with Katherine than anyone knows. He thinks he was compelled, but was he really?

Damon: I kissed Elena.

Stefan: Because you feel something for her. Because you actually care. And I’m not going to let Katherine come in here and destroy that part of you that has finally, after all of this time, willing to feel something. She’ll try to break you. She’ll try to break us. And how we respond to that will define us. It’s our choice. So, no. I’m not going to fight you.

I love, Stefan. He always puts everything into perspective and is certainly the more level headed of the two. If they were both like Damon, we’d all be in big trouble.

John is heading out, but I’m sure he’ll be back. He brings up one of the questions I’ve been wondering, how did Jeremy’s father die with the ring on? There’s more to this than he’s telling. I don’t believe it was all an accident.

Which way will Jeremy go? Follow in his family’s footsteps or not? Which way will Tyler go? Can he help but follow in his family’s footsteps? Can he get control of his anger?

Katherine: The truth is, I’ve never loved you. It was always Stefan.

First dagger. I don’t ship Elena/Damon, but Katherine/Damon is pretty hot. She tells Stefan she’s been avoiding Damon, so I get the feeling she shows up at the end for a reason. It’s like Stefan said, she’ll try to split them up. And really, they’re letting her.

Elena: No, no, no, Damon. I care about you. Listen to me, I care about you. I do, but…I love Stefan. It’s always going to be Stefan.

Second dagger. Damon still hasn’t learned, part of becoming more human is letting your guard down and maybe getting hurt as a result.

Stefan: He saw the ring, that’s why he did it. He knew.

Elena: He didn’t see the ring.

Stefan: It’s Katherine. She got under his skin. She undid everything that was good about him.

Elena: There is nothing good about him. Stefan, not anymore. He’s decided what he wants. He doesn’t want to feel, he wants to be hated. It’s just easier that way. He got his wish. I hate him, Stefan."

Did Damon know Jeremy was wearing the family ring? I think not. I can’t help compare the scene to Buffy/Spike in ‘Seeing Red’. Not as bad, but the same kind of idea.

Do you think Damon is right and Elena’s been giving him signs? Can Damon be forgiven for this? Why is Stefan defending him?

Katherine: Game on.

Double whammy, Katherine smothering poor Carolina with a pillow. Of course she’s not dead, not with vamp blood in her system, but wow. Why is she always getting the short end of every stick? And OMG, poor Matt, too.

Nikita: My name is Nikita. Six years ago I was taken out of prison and forced by a covert unit of the government to be an assassin. Three years ago I escaped and have been hunted ever since. I was the first recruit to get out. I’m going to make certain I’m not the last.

Thus is the premise of this fourth incarnation, which had better have a new take if it wants to succeed. Lucky for them, the story of Nikita after she leaves Division has never been told. So, Nikita’s been MIA, but she’s back now to take down Division and help others like her escape. …Hm.

Cue Alex, just another girl who gets ‘recruited’ after a robbery goes wrong and someone dies. We later learn Alex actually shares a similar backstory with Nikita. Interesting.

Michael: Because you’re a young attractive white female, with virtually no personal ties or paper trail. […] What really managed to grab our attention though was how you managed to kill a criminal we were about to take out.

We also meet Michael who is part of Division and watches as Alex gets brought in. It’s clear he’s been through this many times before, but something says he’s not completely ok with it. And unfortunately for Division, you’re only as strong as your weakest link…

Michael: Your life is over, Alex. I’m here to offer you a new one. But you have to be willing to earn it.
Alex: What have I gotta do?
Michael: Learn. How not to sound like a teen meth-whore, for starters. Learn to stand up straight. Learn how to walk right. Learn how to talk right. Learn how to serve your country… instead of just yourself.

Enter Nikita, she’s the epitome of that. She’s had seven years of Division training and three years on the outside. But the question is, what has she been doing all this time?

Amusing aside, when Maggie Q suggested a one-piece for this scene, wardrobe gave her this one to wear, lol. And a slight nitpick, but why are female action stars so skinny these days? It borders on unbelievable. I’d like a little bit more muscle please.

Nikita: They told me they were giving me a second chance. They told me I’d be serving my country. What they didn’t tell me was they were training me to be an assassin. They’re probably telling some other girl the same thing right now.

One of the things going for this version is the two different stories that can be told through Nikita and Alex. What I don’t like though is how much Nikita’s backstory is like Alias. They really need to differentiate themselves from past spy shows and fast if they want viewers to continue.

Thom: None of us are volunteers.  […]  Meaning we need to stick together if we’re gonna make it through training.

Also, perhaps get rid of annoying characters. I’m not sure I like these new friends of Alex, yet. Plus, pandering to the teen demographic with the whole spy school drama is not going to give the show more credibility. That was a pretty awesome tray and fork moment though.

Amanda: And you’re beautiful. Michael was right about that much.
Alex: So what? You’re the one that’s supposed to teach me how to walk and talk, chew with my mouth closed?
Amanda: My name is Amanda, and I’m the one who’s going to show you how to embrace your beauty and use it to your advantage. Your journey begins right here in this chair.

Another thing I like about the show is the notable names amongst the cast. We have Maggie Q, Lyndsy Fonseca, Shane West, Melinda Clarke, Xander Berkeley, and Aaron Stanford. I look forward to seeing what they can do.

We haven’t seen enough of Amanda yet, but I like that she provides a woman perspective and seemingly softer edge to Division. And it’s obvious she’s not only smart but deadly. I look forward to seeing more of her.

Birkhoff: Just understand that if you do this, you’re gonna have to kill your way though a whole lot of people you know.

I so forgot Aaron Stanford was in this show until after the episode was over. The interrogation was possibly my favorite scene of the episode, and brought a more human quality to Nikita and her mission. The stakes just got a little higher in my opinion.

Jaden: Division doesn’t allow relationships.

Clearly, what Division doesn’t know… I’m sure it won’t be long before Alex gets a love interest.

Amanda: We’re not murderers.  We’re protectors.  We protect our home.
Alex: What home?”
Amanda: Home is where you stop running. […]  It begins with a promise.  You promise to put down the shears.  I promise to forget that this ever happened.  And we begin again.  Welcome home.

For the weak minded I’m sure that sentimental tactic will work. Especially for the type of kids Division targets. Instead I love that Alex used it to seal the deal.

Michael: Safety on. Toss it behind you, don’t turn around. Get down on the ground. Slowly. Spread your arms and your legs.
Nikita: Just like old times, huh?
Michael: Shut up. You were free. You had gotten out, you were gone. What the hell are you doing back here?

I’m intrigued by the Michael/Nikita relationship. I’m left cold by her as a character, but maybe with more of her backstory that’ll change. I’m more interested in Michael and his motivations.

Alex: I’m never gonna get this.
Michael: Yeah, someone told me that once.  She was wrong too.  Remember, you’re just getting started.
…Alex: Damn right.

Reading the script, even I was surprised by the ending. Nikita set this up perfectly. She knew Michael would take Alex under his wing. What I want to know is how close are Nikita and Michael really? Any UST? How close in age?And kudos to Alex who played it well.

So, Nikita was the pig who left her at the beginning? Rewatching that opening scene, I wonder how long had Alex been doing missions with Nikita? Is that what she’s been doing for three years?

I don’t love the show yet. I really think it needs to step up its game to that next level. I want to see more depth of character and themes. But at least this show doesn’t make me wish I was watching Alias instead like Covert Affairs and Undercovers did.

Nikita (s1ep01): Pilot
★★★
A spy returns to exact revenge on the clandestine agency that betrayed her after training her to be an assassin. In the pilot episode, Nikita (Maggie Q) emerges from three years of hiding to send a message to her former handlers at Division. Meanwhile, new recruit Alex begins her training at Division and discovers what the agency has planned for her future.

John: Behind you!

We open on the same finale scenes, but from another POV and in real time. The show’s inner horror movie is loose as Katherine plays mind games with Elena. She’s still one scary ass mofo after all this time. There’s also a new title sequence/font, but I kind of miss the old one already. 

Stefan/Elena! I *squeed* on seeing them onscreen again. Glad Jeremy is ok and the vamp blood actually healed him. Testament to the show, but I wasn’t really sure if they’d go the vamp route. Maybe this close call will him to grow up? And what’s up with No More Mr. Nice Stefan?

Matt! So underrated as a male character on this show just because he’s the non-vamp nice guy. I love him with Caroline, too. And Damon being friendly with Caroline’s mom and in with the council still amuses me. I’m going to love when they finally realize he’s a vampire.

Bonnie: Do it. This is Caroline. Ok? We can’t let her die. Do it.
Damon: If I do this, you and me, we call a truce?
Bonnie: No, but you’ll do it anyway. For Elena.

Sadly, Bonnie needs to regrow on me. I just haven’t loved her actions as of late. Yes, she’s all badass now, but really at what cost? And now her guilt is causing her to make rash decisions like give Caroline vampire blood. No good can come of this.

Elena: When were you at the house?
Damon: Really? Earlier? We were talking, all cathartic, feelings exposed. Come on, we kissed, Elena.
Elena: Ok…I don’t have time for this, Damon.
Damon: Hey, if you want to forget it happened, fine. But I can’t.

I loved how long it took Damon to realize Elena doesn’t know what anyone is talking about. Thus, I also loved how quickly Stefan notices it’s Katherine and not Elena. Glad one of the two can tell. And that was an awesome vamp out from Stefan and confrontation, btw. +1

Damon: To risk another frown line encroaching on that very crowded forehead… we kissed.

Oh Damon, when things don’t go his way he freaks out. But Stefan also really shouldn’t let Damon get to him. Finally Elena realizes keeping Jeremy in the dark is not a good thing. I know she’s protecting her little brother, but he’s really safer in the know.

Matt and Caroline are such cuteness, and with Bonnie, too. But where is Elena? I think it’s telling that she’s the odd one out, off getting dragged further and further into the supernatural world away from normalcy.

I love these moments with the adult characters of Mystic Falls. It adds another layer of depth to the show and helps to ground it. And I’m all for Tyler having his own storyline, but this new uncle character will have to grow on me.

John: My daughter should have driven a stake through your heart by now. I haven’t spoke with Katherine directly. She never trusted me. So either kill me, or get out. Because I can’t stand the sight of you with my daughter.

Elena: You see the problem with such hatred? It’s gonna get you killed.

I know some people don’t like him, but I think John is a fascinating character. He’s surrounded by vamps from his ex to his daughter’s boyfriend, and still his hate knows no bounds. He even expects his daughter and son to follow his beliefs.

Stefan: Now take my advice—leave town. Elena doesn’t want you here. You have about 24 hours before the blood leaves your system. That’s enough time to disappear. Or so help me god, I will turn you into a vampire and I will watch you hate yourself more than you already do. Clock starts now.

Granted, with Stefan’s next actions, it’s not hard to see why he hates vamps. What Stefan just did, well, I don’t know what to make of it. This is going to come back and bite everyone in the ass. By the end of this season I wonder if Elena will be on the outs with both brothers.

Katherine: Oh, his eyes are so blue!

Yes, Katherine. I loved her quick shift into normal when Bonnie made the doors open. Scary how easily she’s able to pretend she’s Elena. Her fondness for Matt is amusing. And Katherine must be crazy if she actually was surprised that Stefan didn’t come rushing to her.

Elena: That’s not a surprise. I’m surprised that you thought I’d kiss you back.

And same thing for Damon, he must be crazy if he thought Elena would kiss him. And poor, Tyler. Question, why are there always these Tyler and Jeremy scenes? Are they writers up to something? An alliance perhaps between the two characters?

Stefan: Don’t flirt with me, Katherine. I’m not Damon. I haven’t spent 145 years obsessed with you.

Katherine: Yeah. Based on your choice of women, I’d say otherwise. Though I’ll admit, it does bother me that you’ve fallen in love with somebody else.

Touche. I’ve always believed in Stefan’s love for Elena, but it does beg the question as to how one would fall in love with your ex’s doppleganger.

Katherine: You want to know why I’m here, Stefan?  I came back for you.

Stefan: Well, the problem, Katherine…is that I hate you.

Katherine: You hate me, huh? That sounds like the beginning of a love story, Stefan, not the end of one.

I also think there’s more to Stefan being in love with Katherine than anyone knows. He thinks he was compelled, but was he really?

Damon: I kissed Elena.

Stefan: Because you feel something for her. Because you actually care. And I’m not going to let Katherine come in here and destroy that part of you that has finally, after all of this time, willing to feel something. She’ll try to break you. She’ll try to break us. And how we respond to that will define us. It’s our choice. So, no. I’m not going to fight you.

I love, Stefan. He always puts everything into perspective and is certainly the more level headed of the two. If they were both like Damon, we’d all be in big trouble.

John is heading out, but I’m sure he’ll be back. He brings up one of the questions I’ve been wondering, how did Jeremy’s father die with the ring on? There’s more to this than he’s telling. I don’t believe it was all an accident.

Which way will Jeremy go? Follow in his family’s footsteps or not? Which way will Tyler go? Can he help but follow in his family’s footsteps? Can he get control of his anger?

Katherine: The truth is, I’ve never loved you. It was always Stefan.

First dagger. I don’t ship Elena/Damon, but Katherine/Damon is pretty hot. She tells Stefan she’s been avoiding Damon, so I get the feeling she shows up at the end for a reason. It’s like Stefan said, she’ll try to split them up. And really, they’re letting her.

Elena: No, no, no, Damon. I care about you. Listen to me, I care about you. I do, but…I love Stefan. It’s always going to be Stefan.

Second dagger. Damon still hasn’t learned, part of becoming more human is letting your guard down and maybe getting hurt as a result.

Stefan: He saw the ring, that’s why he did it. He knew.

Elena: He didn’t see the ring.

Stefan: It’s Katherine. She got under his skin. She undid everything that was good about him.

Elena: There is nothing good about him. Stefan, not anymore. He’s decided what he wants. He doesn’t want to feel, he wants to be hated. It’s just easier that way. He got his wish. I hate him, Stefan."

Did Damon know Jeremy was wearing the family ring? I think not. I can’t help compare the scene to Buffy/Spike in ‘Seeing Red’. Not as bad, but the same kind of idea.

Do you think Damon is right and Elena’s been giving him signs? Can Damon be forgiven for this? Why is Stefan defending him?

Katherine: Game on.

Double whammy, Katherine smothering poor Carolina with a pillow. Of course she’s not dead, not with vamp blood in her system, but wow. Why is she always getting the short end of every stick? And OMG, poor Matt, too.

Nikita: My name is Nikita. Six years ago I was taken out of prison and forced by a covert unit of the government to be an assassin. Three years ago I escaped and have been hunted ever since. I was the first recruit to get out. I’m going to make certain I’m not the last.

Thus is the premise of this fourth incarnation, which had better have a new take if it wants to succeed. Lucky for them, the story of Nikita after she leaves Division has never been told. So, Nikita’s been MIA, but she’s back now to take down Division and help others like her escape. …Hm.

Cue Alex, just another girl who gets ‘recruited’ after a robbery goes wrong and someone dies. We later learn Alex actually shares a similar backstory with Nikita. Interesting.

Michael: Because you’re a young attractive white female, with virtually no personal ties or paper trail. […] What really managed to grab our attention though was how you managed to kill a criminal we were about to take out.

We also meet Michael who is part of Division and watches as Alex gets brought in. It’s clear he’s been through this many times before, but something says he’s not completely ok with it. And unfortunately for Division, you’re only as strong as your weakest link…

Michael: Your life is over, Alex. I’m here to offer you a new one. But you have to be willing to earn it.
Alex: What have I gotta do?
Michael: Learn. How not to sound like a teen meth-whore, for starters. Learn to stand up straight. Learn how to walk right. Learn how to talk right. Learn how to serve your country… instead of just yourself.

Enter Nikita, she’s the epitome of that. She’s had seven years of Division training and three years on the outside. But the question is, what has she been doing all this time?

Amusing aside, when Maggie Q suggested a one-piece for this scene, wardrobe gave her this one to wear, lol. And a slight nitpick, but why are female action stars so skinny these days? It borders on unbelievable. I’d like a little bit more muscle please.

Nikita: They told me they were giving me a second chance. They told me I’d be serving my country. What they didn’t tell me was they were training me to be an assassin. They’re probably telling some other girl the same thing right now.

One of the things going for this version is the two different stories that can be told through Nikita and Alex. What I don’t like though is how much Nikita’s backstory is like Alias. They really need to differentiate themselves from past spy shows and fast if they want viewers to continue.

Thom: None of us are volunteers.  […]  Meaning we need to stick together if we’re gonna make it through training.

Also, perhaps get rid of annoying characters. I’m not sure I like these new friends of Alex, yet. Plus, pandering to the teen demographic with the whole spy school drama is not going to give the show more credibility. That was a pretty awesome tray and fork moment though.

Amanda: And you’re beautiful. Michael was right about that much.
Alex: So what? You’re the one that’s supposed to teach me how to walk and talk, chew with my mouth closed?
Amanda: My name is Amanda, and I’m the one who’s going to show you how to embrace your beauty and use it to your advantage. Your journey begins right here in this chair.

Another thing I like about the show is the notable names amongst the cast. We have Maggie Q, Lyndsy Fonseca, Shane West, Melinda Clarke, Xander Berkeley, and Aaron Stanford. I look forward to seeing what they can do.

We haven’t seen enough of Amanda yet, but I like that she provides a woman perspective and seemingly softer edge to Division. And it’s obvious she’s not only smart but deadly. I look forward to seeing more of her.

Birkhoff: Just understand that if you do this, you’re gonna have to kill your way though a whole lot of people you know.

I so forgot Aaron Stanford was in this show until after the episode was over. The interrogation was possibly my favorite scene of the episode, and brought a more human quality to Nikita and her mission. The stakes just got a little higher in my opinion.

Jaden: Division doesn’t allow relationships.

Clearly, what Division doesn’t know… I’m sure it won’t be long before Alex gets a love interest.

Amanda: We’re not murderers.  We’re protectors.  We protect our home.
Alex: What home?”
Amanda: Home is where you stop running. […]  It begins with a promise.  You promise to put down the shears.  I promise to forget that this ever happened.  And we begin again.  Welcome home.

For the weak minded I’m sure that sentimental tactic will work. Especially for the type of kids Division targets. Instead I love that Alex used it to seal the deal.

Michael: Safety on. Toss it behind you, don’t turn around. Get down on the ground. Slowly. Spread your arms and your legs.
Nikita: Just like old times, huh?
Michael: Shut up. You were free. You had gotten out, you were gone. What the hell are you doing back here?

I’m intrigued by the Michael/Nikita relationship. I’m left cold by her as a character, but maybe with more of her backstory that’ll change. I’m more interested in Michael and his motivations.

Alex: I’m never gonna get this.
Michael: Yeah, someone told me that once.  She was wrong too.  Remember, you’re just getting started.
…Alex: Damn right.

Reading the script, even I was surprised by the ending. Nikita set this up perfectly. She knew Michael would take Alex under his wing. What I want to know is how close are Nikita and Michael really? Any UST? How close in age?And kudos to Alex who played it well.

So, Nikita was the pig who left her at the beginning? Rewatching that opening scene, I wonder how long had Alex been doing missions with Nikita? Is that what she’s been doing for three years?

I don’t love the show yet. I really think it needs to step up its game to that next level. I want to see more depth of character and themes. But at least this show doesn’t make me wish I was watching Alias instead like Covert Affairs and Undercovers did.

The Vampire Diaries (s2ep01): The Return
★★★★
The second season begins with Elena discovering her uncle’s bloody body and learning Jeremy’s fate. Meanwhile, price Caroline is taken to the hospital following a car accident, discount rx and Tyler’s mysterious uncle Mason arrives in town.

Nikita (s1ep01): Pilot
★★★
A spy returns to exact revenge on the clandestine agency that betrayed her after training her to be an assassin. In the pilot episode, online Nikita (Maggie Q) emerges from three years of hiding to send a message to her former handlers at Division. Meanwhile, new recruit Alex begins her training at Division and discovers what the agency has planned for her future.

John: Behind you!

We open on the same finale scenes, but from another POV and in real time. The show’s inner horror movie is loose as Katherine plays mind games with Elena. She’s still one scary ass mofo after all this time. There’s also a new title sequence/font, but I kind of miss the old one already. 

Stefan/Elena! I *squeed* on seeing them onscreen again. Glad Jeremy is ok and the vamp blood actually healed him. Testament to the show, but I wasn’t really sure if they’d go the vamp route. Maybe this close call will him to grow up? And what’s up with No More Mr. Nice Stefan?

Matt! So underrated as a male character on this show just because he’s the non-vamp nice guy. I love him with Caroline, too. And Damon being friendly with Caroline’s mom and in with the council still amuses me. I’m going to love when they finally realize he’s a vampire.

Bonnie: Do it. This is Caroline. Ok? We can’t let her die. Do it.
Damon: If I do this, you and me, we call a truce?
Bonnie: No, but you’ll do it anyway. For Elena.

Sadly, Bonnie needs to regrow on me. I just haven’t loved her actions as of late. Yes, she’s all badass now, but really at what cost? And now her guilt is causing her to make rash decisions like give Caroline vampire blood. No good can come of this.

Elena: When were you at the house?
Damon: Really? Earlier? We were talking, all cathartic, feelings exposed. Come on, we kissed, Elena.
Elena: Ok…I don’t have time for this, Damon.
Damon: Hey, if you want to forget it happened, fine. But I can’t.

I loved how long it took Damon to realize Elena doesn’t know what anyone is talking about. Thus, I also loved how quickly Stefan notices it’s Katherine and not Elena. Glad one of the two can tell. And that was an awesome vamp out from Stefan and confrontation, btw. +1

Damon: To risk another frown line encroaching on that very crowded forehead… we kissed.

Oh Damon, when things don’t go his way he freaks out. But Stefan also really shouldn’t let Damon get to him. Finally Elena realizes keeping Jeremy in the dark is not a good thing. I know she’s protecting her little brother, but he’s really safer in the know.

Matt and Caroline are such cuteness, and with Bonnie, too. But where is Elena? I think it’s telling that she’s the odd one out, off getting dragged further and further into the supernatural world away from normalcy.

I love these moments with the adult characters of Mystic Falls. It adds another layer of depth to the show and helps to ground it. And I’m all for Tyler having his own storyline, but this new uncle character will have to grow on me.

John: My daughter should have driven a stake through your heart by now. I haven’t spoke with Katherine directly. She never trusted me. So either kill me, or get out. Because I can’t stand the sight of you with my daughter.

Elena: You see the problem with such hatred? It’s gonna get you killed.

I know some people don’t like him, but I think John is a fascinating character. He’s surrounded by vamps from his ex to his daughter’s boyfriend, and still his hate knows no bounds. He even expects his daughter and son to follow his beliefs.

Stefan: Now take my advice—leave town. Elena doesn’t want you here. You have about 24 hours before the blood leaves your system. That’s enough time to disappear. Or so help me god, I will turn you into a vampire and I will watch you hate yourself more than you already do. Clock starts now.

Granted, with Stefan’s next actions, it’s not hard to see why he hates vamps. What Stefan just did, well, I don’t know what to make of it. This is going to come back and bite everyone in the ass. By the end of this season I wonder if Elena will be on the outs with both brothers.

Katherine: Oh, his eyes are so blue!

Yes, Katherine. I loved her quick shift into normal when Bonnie made the doors open. Scary how easily she’s able to pretend she’s Elena. Her fondness for Matt is amusing. And Katherine must be crazy if she actually was surprised that Stefan didn’t come rushing to her.

Elena: That’s not a surprise. I’m surprised that you thought I’d kiss you back.

And same thing for Damon, he must be crazy if he thought Elena would kiss him. And poor, Tyler. Question, why are there always these Tyler and Jeremy scenes? Are they writers up to something? An alliance perhaps between the two characters?

Stefan: Don’t flirt with me, Katherine. I’m not Damon. I haven’t spent 145 years obsessed with you.

Katherine: Yeah. Based on your choice of women, I’d say otherwise. Though I’ll admit, it does bother me that you’ve fallen in love with somebody else.

Touche. I’ve always believed in Stefan’s love for Elena, but it does beg the question as to how one would fall in love with your ex’s doppleganger.

Katherine: You want to know why I’m here, Stefan?  I came back for you.

Stefan: Well, the problem, Katherine…is that I hate you.

Katherine: You hate me, huh? That sounds like the beginning of a love story, Stefan, not the end of one.

I also think there’s more to Stefan being in love with Katherine than anyone knows. He thinks he was compelled, but was he really? Hate seems to be the beginning of two love stories, Stefan and Katherine, and later Elena says that about Damon. This has now gone from a triangle to square.

Damon: I kissed Elena.

Stefan: Because you feel something for her. Because you actually care. And I’m not going to let Katherine come in here and destroy that part of you that has finally, after all of this time, willing to feel something. She’ll try to break you. She’ll try to break us. And how we respond to that will define us. It’s our choice. So, no. I’m not going to fight you.

I love, Stefan. He always puts everything into perspective and is certainly the more level headed of the two. If they were both like Damon, we’d all be in big trouble.

John is heading out, but I’m sure he’ll be back. He brings up one of the questions I’ve been wondering, how did Jeremy’s father die with the ring on? There’s more to this than he’s telling. I don’t believe it was all an accident.

Which way will Jeremy go? Follow in his family’s footsteps or not? Which way will Tyler go? Can he help but follow in his family’s footsteps? Can he get control of his anger?

Katherine: The truth is, I’ve never loved you. It was always Stefan.

First dagger. I don’t ship Elena/Damon, but Katherine/Damon is pretty hot. She tells Stefan she’s been avoiding Damon, so I get the feeling she shows up at the end for a reason. It’s like Stefan said, she’ll try to split them up. And really, they’re letting her.

Elena: No, no, no, Damon. I care about you. Listen to me, I care about you. I do, but…I love Stefan. It’s always going to be Stefan.

Second dagger. Damon still hasn’t learned, part of becoming more human is letting your guard down and maybe getting hurt as a result.

Stefan: He saw the ring, that’s why he did it. He knew.

Elena: He didn’t see the ring.

Stefan: It’s Katherine. She got under his skin. She undid everything that was good about him.

Elena: There is nothing good about him. Stefan, not anymore. He’s decided what he wants. He doesn’t want to feel, he wants to be hated. It’s just easier that way. He got his wish. I hate him, Stefan."

Did Damon know Jeremy was wearing the family ring? I think not. I can’t help compare the scene to Buffy/Spike in ‘Seeing Red’. Not as bad, but the same kind of idea.

Do you think Damon is right and Elena’s been giving him signs? Can Damon be forgiven for this? Why is Stefan defending him?

Katherine: Game on.

Double whammy, Katherine smothering poor Carolina with a pillow. Of course she’s not dead, not with vamp blood in her system, but wow. Why is she always getting the short end of every stick? And OMG, poor Matt, too.

Nikita: My name is Nikita. Six years ago I was taken out of prison and forced by a covert unit of the government to be an assassin. Three years ago I escaped and have been hunted ever since. I was the first recruit to get out. I’m going to make certain I’m not the last.

Thus is the premise of this fourth incarnation, which had better have a new take if it wants to succeed. Lucky for them, the story of Nikita after she leaves Division has never been told. So, Nikita’s been MIA, but she’s back now to take down Division and help others like her escape. …Hm.

Cue Alex, just another girl who gets ‘recruited’ after a robbery goes wrong and someone dies. We later learn Alex actually shares a similar backstory with Nikita. Interesting.

Michael: Because you’re a young attractive white female, with virtually no personal ties or paper trail. […] What really managed to grab our attention though was how you managed to kill a criminal we were about to take out.

We also meet Michael who is part of Division and watches as Alex gets brought in. It’s clear he’s been through this many times before, but something says he’s not completely ok with it. And unfortunately for Division, you’re only as strong as your weakest link…

Michael: Your life is over, Alex. I’m here to offer you a new one. But you have to be willing to earn it.
Alex: What have I gotta do?
Michael: Learn. How not to sound like a teen meth-whore, for starters. Learn to stand up straight. Learn how to walk right. Learn how to talk right. Learn how to serve your country… instead of just yourself.

Enter Nikita, she’s the epitome of that. She’s had seven years of Division training and three years on the outside. But the question is, what has she been doing all this time?

Amusing aside, when Maggie Q suggested a one-piece for this scene, wardrobe gave her this one to wear, lol. And a slight nitpick, but why are female action stars so skinny these days? It borders on unbelievable. I’d like a little bit more muscle please.

Nikita: They told me they were giving me a second chance. They told me I’d be serving my country. What they didn’t tell me was they were training me to be an assassin. They’re probably telling some other girl the same thing right now.

One of the things going for this version is the two different stories that can be told through Nikita and Alex. What I don’t like though is how much Nikita’s backstory is like Alias. They really need to differentiate themselves from past spy shows and fast if they want viewers to continue.

Thom: None of us are volunteers.  […]  Meaning we need to stick together if we’re gonna make it through training.

Also, perhaps get rid of annoying characters. I’m not sure I like these new friends of Alex, yet. Plus, pandering to the teen demographic with the whole spy school drama is not going to give the show more credibility. That was a pretty awesome tray and fork moment though.

Amanda: And you’re beautiful. Michael was right about that much.
Alex: So what? You’re the one that’s supposed to teach me how to walk and talk, chew with my mouth closed?
Amanda: My name is Amanda, and I’m the one who’s going to show you how to embrace your beauty and use it to your advantage. Your journey begins right here in this chair.

Another thing I like about the show is the notable names amongst the cast. We have Maggie Q, Lyndsy Fonseca, Shane West, Melinda Clarke, Xander Berkeley, and Aaron Stanford. I look forward to seeing what they can do.

We haven’t seen enough of Amanda yet, but I like that she provides a woman perspective and seemingly softer edge to Division. And it’s obvious she’s not only smart but deadly. I look forward to seeing more of her.

Birkhoff: Just understand that if you do this, you’re gonna have to kill your way though a whole lot of people you know.

I so forgot Aaron Stanford was in this show until after the episode was over. The interrogation was possibly my favorite scene of the episode, and brought a more human quality to Nikita and her mission. The stakes just got a little higher in my opinion.

Jaden: Division doesn’t allow relationships.

Clearly, what Division doesn’t know… I’m sure it won’t be long before Alex gets a love interest.

Amanda: We’re not murderers.  We’re protectors.  We protect our home.
Alex: What home?”
Amanda: Home is where you stop running. […]  It begins with a promise.  You promise to put down the shears.  I promise to forget that this ever happened.  And we begin again.  Welcome home.

For the weak minded I’m sure that sentimental tactic will work. Especially for the type of kids Division targets. Instead I love that Alex used it to seal the deal.

Michael: Safety on. Toss it behind you, don’t turn around. Get down on the ground. Slowly. Spread your arms and your legs.
Nikita: Just like old times, huh?
Michael: Shut up. You were free. You had gotten out, you were gone. What the hell are you doing back here?

I’m intrigued by the Michael/Nikita relationship. I’m left cold by her as a character, but maybe with more of her backstory that’ll change. I’m more interested in Michael and his motivations.

Alex: I’m never gonna get this.
Michael: Yeah, someone told me that once.  She was wrong too.  Remember, you’re just getting started.
…Alex: Damn right.

Reading the script, even I was surprised by the ending. Nikita set this up perfectly. She knew Michael would take Alex under his wing. What I want to know is how close are Nikita and Michael really? Any UST? How close in age?And kudos to Alex who played it well.

So, Nikita was the pig who left her at the beginning? Rewatching that opening scene, I wonder how long had Alex been doing missions with Nikita? Is that what she’s been doing for three years?

I don’t love the show yet. I really think it needs to step up its game to that next level. I want to see more depth of character and themes. But at least this show doesn’t make me wish I was watching Alias instead like Covert Affairs and Undercovers did.

Nikita (s1ep01): Pilot
★★★
A spy returns to exact revenge on the clandestine agency that betrayed her after training her to be an assassin. In the pilot episode, pharmacy Nikita (Maggie Q) emerges from three years of hiding to send a message to her former handlers at Division. Meanwhile, new recruit Alex begins her training at Division and discovers what the agency has planned for her future.

John: Behind you!

We open on the same finale scenes, but from another POV and in real time. The show’s inner horror movie is loose as Katherine plays mind games with Elena. She’s still one scary ass mofo after all this time. There’s also a new title sequence/font, but I kind of miss the old one already. 

Stefan/Elena! I *squeed* on seeing them onscreen again. Glad Jeremy is ok and the vamp blood actually healed him. Testament to the show, but I wasn’t really sure if they’d go the vamp route. Maybe this close call will him to grow up? And what’s up with No More Mr. Nice Stefan?

Matt! So underrated as a male character on this show just because he’s the non-vamp nice guy. I love him with Caroline, too. And Damon being friendly with Caroline’s mom and in with the council still amuses me. I’m going to love when they finally realize he’s a vampire.

Bonnie: Do it. This is Caroline. Ok? We can’t let her die. Do it.
Damon: If I do this, you and me, we call a truce?
Bonnie: No, but you’ll do it anyway. For Elena.

Sadly, Bonnie needs to regrow on me. I just haven’t loved her actions as of late. Yes, she’s all badass now, but really at what cost? And now her guilt is causing her to make rash decisions like give Caroline vampire blood. No good can come of this.

Elena: When were you at the house?
Damon: Really? Earlier? We were talking, all cathartic, feelings exposed. Come on, we kissed, Elena.
Elena: Ok…I don’t have time for this, Damon.
Damon: Hey, if you want to forget it happened, fine. But I can’t.

I loved how long it took Damon to realize Elena doesn’t know what anyone is talking about. Thus, I also loved how quickly Stefan notices it’s Katherine and not Elena. Glad one of the two can tell. And that was an awesome vamp out from Stefan and confrontation, btw. +1

Damon: To risk another frown line encroaching on that very crowded forehead… we kissed.

Oh Damon, when things don’t go his way he freaks out. But Stefan also really shouldn’t let Damon get to him. Finally Elena realizes keeping Jeremy in the dark is not a good thing. I know she’s protecting her little brother, but he’s really safer in the know.

Matt and Caroline are such cuteness, and with Bonnie, too. But where is Elena? I think it’s telling that she’s the odd one out, off getting dragged further and further into the supernatural world away from normalcy.

I love these moments with the adult characters of Mystic Falls. It adds another layer of depth to the show and helps to ground it. And I’m all for Tyler having his own storyline, but this new uncle character will have to grow on me.

John: My daughter should have driven a stake through your heart by now. I haven’t spoke with Katherine directly. She never trusted me. So either kill me, or get out. Because I can’t stand the sight of you with my daughter.

Elena: You see the problem with such hatred? It’s gonna get you killed.

I know some people don’t like him, but I think John is a fascinating character. He’s surrounded by vamps from his ex to his daughter’s boyfriend, and still his hate knows no bounds. He even expects his daughter and son to follow his beliefs.

Stefan: Now take my advice—leave town. Elena doesn’t want you here. You have about 24 hours before the blood leaves your system. That’s enough time to disappear. Or so help me god, I will turn you into a vampire and I will watch you hate yourself more than you already do. Clock starts now.

Granted, with Stefan’s next actions, it’s not hard to see why he hates vamps. What Stefan just did, well, I don’t know what to make of it. This is going to come back and bite everyone in the ass. By the end of this season I wonder if Elena will be on the outs with both brothers.

Katherine: Oh, his eyes are so blue!

Yes, Katherine. I loved her quick shift into normal when Bonnie made the doors open. Scary how easily she’s able to pretend she’s Elena. Her fondness for Matt is amusing. And Katherine must be crazy if she actually was surprised that Stefan didn’t come rushing to her.

Elena: That’s not a surprise. I’m surprised that you thought I’d kiss you back.

And same thing for Damon, he must be crazy if he thought Elena would kiss him. And poor, Tyler. Question, why are there always these Tyler and Jeremy scenes? Are they writers up to something? An alliance perhaps between the two characters?

Stefan: Don’t flirt with me, Katherine. I’m not Damon. I haven’t spent 145 years obsessed with you.

Katherine: Yeah. Based on your choice of women, I’d say otherwise. Though I’ll admit, it does bother me that you’ve fallen in love with somebody else.

Touche. I’ve always believed in Stefan’s love for Elena, but it does beg the question as to how one would fall in love with your ex’s doppleganger.

Katherine: You want to know why I’m here, Stefan?  I came back for you.

Stefan: Well, the problem, Katherine…is that I hate you.

Katherine: You hate me, huh? That sounds like the beginning of a love story, Stefan, not the end of one.

I also think there’s more to Stefan being in love with Katherine than anyone knows. He thinks he was compelled, but was he really?

Damon: I kissed Elena.

Stefan: Because you feel something for her. Because you actually care. And I’m not going to let Katherine come in here and destroy that part of you that has finally, after all of this time, willing to feel something. She’ll try to break you. She’ll try to break us. And how we respond to that will define us. It’s our choice. So, no. I’m not going to fight you.

I love, Stefan. He always puts everything into perspective and is certainly the more level headed of the two. If they were both like Damon, we’d all be in big trouble.

John is heading out, but I’m sure he’ll be back. He brings up one of the questions I’ve been wondering, how did Jeremy’s father die with the ring on? There’s more to this than he’s telling. I don’t believe it was all an accident.

Which way will Jeremy go? Follow in his family’s footsteps or not? Which way will Tyler go? Can he help but follow in his family’s footsteps? Can he get control of his anger?

Katherine: The truth is, I’ve never loved you. It was always Stefan.

First dagger. I don’t ship Elena/Damon, but Katherine/Damon is pretty hot. She tells Stefan she’s been avoiding Damon, so I get the feeling she shows up at the end for a reason. It’s like Stefan said, she’ll try to split them up. And really, they’re letting her.

Elena: No, no, no, Damon. I care about you. Listen to me, I care about you. I do, but…I love Stefan. It’s always going to be Stefan.

Second dagger. Damon still hasn’t learned, part of becoming more human is letting your guard down and maybe getting hurt as a result.

Stefan: He saw the ring, that’s why he did it. He knew.

Elena: He didn’t see the ring.

Stefan: It’s Katherine. She got under his skin. She undid everything that was good about him.

Elena: There is nothing good about him. Stefan, not anymore. He’s decided what he wants. He doesn’t want to feel, he wants to be hated. It’s just easier that way. He got his wish. I hate him, Stefan."

Did Damon know Jeremy was wearing the family ring? I think not. I can’t help compare the scene to Buffy/Spike in ‘Seeing Red’. Not as bad, but the same kind of idea.

Do you think Damon is right and Elena’s been giving him signs? Can Damon be forgiven for this? Why is Stefan defending him?

Katherine: Game on.

Double whammy, Katherine smothering poor Carolina with a pillow. Of course she’s not dead, not with vamp blood in her system, but wow. Why is she always getting the short end of every stick? And OMG, poor Matt, too.

Nikita: My name is Nikita. Six years ago I was taken out of prison and forced by a covert unit of the government to be an assassin. Three years ago I escaped and have been hunted ever since. I was the first recruit to get out. I’m going to make certain I’m not the last.

Thus is the premise of this fourth incarnation, which had better have a new take if it wants to succeed. Lucky for them, the story of Nikita after she leaves Division has never been told. So, Nikita’s been MIA, but she’s back now to take down Division and help others like her escape. …Hm.

Cue Alex, just another girl who gets ‘recruited’ after a robbery goes wrong and someone dies. We later learn Alex actually shares a similar backstory with Nikita. Interesting.

Michael: Because you’re a young attractive white female, with virtually no personal ties or paper trail. […] What really managed to grab our attention though was how you managed to kill a criminal we were about to take out.

We also meet Michael who is part of Division and watches as Alex gets brought in. It’s clear he’s been through this many times before, but something says he’s not completely ok with it. And unfortunately for Division, you’re only as strong as your weakest link…

Michael: Your life is over, Alex. I’m here to offer you a new one. But you have to be willing to earn it.
Alex: What have I gotta do?
Michael: Learn. How not to sound like a teen meth-whore, for starters. Learn to stand up straight. Learn how to walk right. Learn how to talk right. Learn how to serve your country… instead of just yourself.

Enter Nikita, she’s the epitome of that. She’s had seven years of Division training and three years on the outside. But the question is, what has she been doing all this time?

Amusing aside, when Maggie Q suggested a one-piece for this scene, wardrobe gave her this one to wear, lol. And a slight nitpick, but why are female action stars so skinny these days? It borders on unbelievable. I’d like a little bit more muscle please.

Nikita: They told me they were giving me a second chance. They told me I’d be serving my country. What they didn’t tell me was they were training me to be an assassin. They’re probably telling some other girl the same thing right now.

One of the things going for this version is the two different stories that can be told through Nikita and Alex. What I don’t like though is how much Nikita’s backstory is like Alias. They really need to differentiate themselves from past spy shows and fast if they want viewers to continue.

Thom: None of us are volunteers.  […]  Meaning we need to stick together if we’re gonna make it through training.

Also, perhaps get rid of annoying characters. I’m not sure I like these new friends of Alex, yet. Plus, pandering to the teen demographic with the whole spy school drama is not going to give the show more credibility. That was a pretty awesome tray and fork moment though.

Amanda: And you’re beautiful. Michael was right about that much.
Alex: So what? You’re the one that’s supposed to teach me how to walk and talk, chew with my mouth closed?
Amanda: My name is Amanda, and I’m the one who’s going to show you how to embrace your beauty and use it to your advantage. Your journey begins right here in this chair.

Another thing I like about the show is the notable names amongst the cast. We have Maggie Q, Lyndsy Fonseca, Shane West, Melinda Clarke, Xander Berkeley, and Aaron Stanford. I look forward to seeing what they can do.

We haven’t seen enough of Amanda yet, but I like that she provides a woman perspective and seemingly softer edge to Division. And it’s obvious she’s not only smart but deadly. I look forward to seeing more of her.

Birkhoff: Just understand that if you do this, you’re gonna have to kill your way though a whole lot of people you know.

I so forgot Aaron Stanford was in this show until after the episode was over. The interrogation was possibly my favorite scene of the episode, and brought a more human quality to Nikita and her mission. The stakes just got a little higher in my opinion.

Jaden: Division doesn’t allow relationships.

Clearly, what Division doesn’t know… I’m sure it won’t be long before Alex gets a love interest.

Amanda: We’re not murderers.  We’re protectors.  We protect our home.
Alex: What home?”
Amanda: Home is where you stop running. […]  It begins with a promise.  You promise to put down the shears.  I promise to forget that this ever happened.  And we begin again.  Welcome home.

For the weak minded I’m sure that sentimental tactic will work. Especially for the type of kids Division targets. Instead I love that Alex used it to seal the deal.

Michael: Safety on. Toss it behind you, don’t turn around. Get down on the ground. Slowly. Spread your arms and your legs.
Nikita: Just like old times, huh?
Michael: Shut up. You were free. You had gotten out, you were gone. What the hell are you doing back here?

I’m intrigued by the Michael/Nikita relationship. I’m left cold by her as a character, but maybe with more of her backstory that’ll change. I’m more interested in Michael and his motivations.

Alex: I’m never gonna get this.
Michael: Yeah, someone told me that once.  She was wrong too.  Remember, you’re just getting started.
…Alex: Damn right.

Reading the script, even I was surprised by the ending. Nikita set this up perfectly. She knew Michael would take Alex under his wing. What I want to know is how close are Nikita and Michael really? Any UST? How close in age?And kudos to Alex who played it well.

So, Nikita was the pig who left her at the beginning? Rewatching that opening scene, I wonder how long had Alex been doing missions with Nikita? Is that what she’s been doing for three years?

I don’t love the show yet. I really think it needs to step up its game to that next level. I want to see more depth of character and themes. But at least this show doesn’t make me wish I was watching Alias instead like Covert Affairs and Undercovers did.

The second season begins with Elena discovering her uncle’s bloody body and learning Jeremy’s fate. Meanwhile, more about Caroline is taken to the hospital following a car accident, glands and Tyler’s mysterious uncle Mason arrives in town.

Nikita (s1ep01): Pilot
★★★
A spy returns to exact revenge on the clandestine agency that betrayed her after training her to be an assassin. In the pilot episode, Nikita (Maggie Q) emerges from three years of hiding to send a message to her former handlers at Division. Meanwhile, new recruit Alex begins her training at Division and discovers what the agency has planned for her future.

John: Behind you!

We open on the same finale scenes, but from another POV and in real time. The show’s inner horror movie is loose as Katherine plays mind games with Elena. She’s still one scary ass mofo after all this time. There’s also a new title sequence/font, but I kind of miss the old one already. 

Stefan/Elena! I *squeed* on seeing them onscreen again. Glad Jeremy is ok and the vamp blood actually healed him. Testament to the show, but I wasn’t really sure if they’d go the vamp route. Maybe this close call will him to grow up? And what’s up with No More Mr. Nice Stefan?

Matt! So underrated as a male character on this show just because he’s the non-vamp nice guy. I love him with Caroline, too. And Damon being friendly with Caroline’s mom and in with the council still amuses me. I’m going to love when they finally realize he’s a vampire.

Bonnie: Do it. This is Caroline. Ok? We can’t let her die. Do it.
Damon: If I do this, you and me, we call a truce?
Bonnie: No, but you’ll do it anyway. For Elena.

Sadly, Bonnie needs to regrow on me. I just haven’t loved her actions as of late. Yes, she’s all badass now, but really at what cost? And now her guilt is causing her to make rash decisions like give Caroline vampire blood. No good can come of this.

Elena: When were you at the house?
Damon: Really? Earlier? We were talking, all cathartic, feelings exposed. Come on, we kissed, Elena.
Elena: Ok…I don’t have time for this, Damon.
Damon: Hey, if you want to forget it happened, fine. But I can’t.

I loved how long it took Damon to realize Elena doesn’t know what anyone is talking about. Thus, I also loved how quickly Stefan notices it’s Katherine and not Elena. Glad one of the two can tell. And that was an awesome vamp out from Stefan and confrontation, btw. +1

Damon: To risk another frown line encroaching on that very crowded forehead… we kissed.

Oh Damon, when things don’t go his way he freaks out. But Stefan also really shouldn’t let Damon get to him. Finally Elena realizes keeping Jeremy in the dark is not a good thing. I know she’s protecting her little brother, but he’s really safer in the know.

Matt and Caroline are such cuteness, and with Bonnie, too. But where is Elena? I think it’s telling that she’s the odd one out, off getting dragged further and further into the supernatural world away from normalcy.

I love these moments with the adult characters of Mystic Falls. It adds another layer of depth to the show and helps to ground it. And I’m all for Tyler having his own storyline, but this new uncle character will have to grow on me.

John: My daughter should have driven a stake through your heart by now. I haven’t spoke with Katherine directly. She never trusted me. So either kill me, or get out. Because I can’t stand the sight of you with my daughter.

Elena: You see the problem with such hatred? It’s gonna get you killed.

I know some people don’t like him, but I think John is a fascinating character. He’s surrounded by vamps from his ex to his daughter’s boyfriend, and still his hate knows no bounds. He even expects his daughter and son to follow his beliefs.

Stefan: Now take my advice—leave town. Elena doesn’t want you here. You have about 24 hours before the blood leaves your system. That’s enough time to disappear. Or so help me god, I will turn you into a vampire and I will watch you hate yourself more than you already do. Clock starts now.

Granted, with Stefan’s next actions, it’s not hard to see why he hates vamps. What Stefan just did, well, I don’t know what to make of it. This is going to come back and bite everyone in the ass. By the end of this season I wonder if Elena will be on the outs with both brothers.

Katherine: Oh, his eyes are so blue!

Yes, Katherine. I loved her quick shift into normal when Bonnie made the doors open. Scary how easily she’s able to pretend she’s Elena. Her fondness for Matt is amusing. And Katherine must be crazy if she actually was surprised that Stefan didn’t come rushing to her.

Elena: That’s not a surprise. I’m surprised that you thought I’d kiss you back.

And same thing for Damon, he must be crazy if he thought Elena would kiss him. And poor, Tyler. Question, why are there always these Tyler and Jeremy scenes? Are they writers up to something? An alliance perhaps between the two characters?

Stefan: Don’t flirt with me, Katherine. I’m not Damon. I haven’t spent 145 years obsessed with you.

Katherine: Yeah. Based on your choice of women, I’d say otherwise. Though I’ll admit, it does bother me that you’ve fallen in love with somebody else.

Touche. I’ve always believed in Stefan’s love for Elena, but it does beg the question as to how one would fall in love with your ex’s doppleganger.

Katherine: You want to know why I’m here, Stefan?  I came back for you.

Stefan: Well, the problem, Katherine…is that I hate you.

Katherine: You hate me, huh? That sounds like the beginning of a love story, Stefan, not the end of one.

I also think there’s more to Stefan being in love with Katherine than anyone knows. He thinks he was compelled, but was he really?

Damon: I kissed Elena.

Stefan: Because you feel something for her. Because you actually care. And I’m not going to let Katherine come in here and destroy that part of you that has finally, after all of this time, willing to feel something. She’ll try to break you. She’ll try to break us. And how we respond to that will define us. It’s our choice. So, no. I’m not going to fight you.

I love, Stefan. He always puts everything into perspective and is certainly the more level headed of the two. If they were both like Damon, we’d all be in big trouble.

John is heading out, but I’m sure he’ll be back. He brings up one of the questions I’ve been wondering, how did Jeremy’s father die with the ring on? There’s more to this than he’s telling. I don’t believe it was all an accident.

Which way will Jeremy go? Follow in his family’s footsteps or not? Which way will Tyler go? Can he help but follow in his family’s footsteps? Can he get control of his anger?

Katherine: The truth is, I’ve never loved you. It was always Stefan.

First dagger. I don’t ship Elena/Damon, but Katherine/Damon is pretty hot. She tells Stefan she’s been avoiding Damon, so I get the feeling she shows up at the end for a reason. It’s like Stefan said, she’ll try to split them up. And really, they’re letting her.

Elena: No, no, no, Damon. I care about you. Listen to me, I care about you. I do, but…I love Stefan. It’s always going to be Stefan.

Second dagger. Damon still hasn’t learned, part of becoming more human is letting your guard down and maybe getting hurt as a result.

Stefan: He saw the ring, that’s why he did it. He knew.

Elena: He didn’t see the ring.

Stefan: It’s Katherine. She got under his skin. She undid everything that was good about him.

Elena: There is nothing good about him. Stefan, not anymore. He’s decided what he wants. He doesn’t want to feel, he wants to be hated. It’s just easier that way. He got his wish. I hate him, Stefan."

Did Damon know Jeremy was wearing the family ring? I think not. I can’t help compare the scene to Buffy/Spike in ‘Seeing Red’. Not as bad, but the same kind of idea.

Do you think Damon is right and Elena’s been giving him signs? Can Damon be forgiven for this? Why is Stefan defending him?

Katherine: Game on.

Double whammy, Katherine smothering poor Carolina with a pillow. Of course she’s not dead, not with vamp blood in her system, but wow. Why is she always getting the short end of every stick? And OMG, poor Matt, too.

Nikita: My name is Nikita. Six years ago I was taken out of prison and forced by a covert unit of the government to be an assassin. Three years ago I escaped and have been hunted ever since. I was the first recruit to get out. I’m going to make certain I’m not the last.

Thus is the premise of this fourth incarnation, which had better have a new take if it wants to succeed. Lucky for them, the story of Nikita after she leaves Division has never been told. So, Nikita’s been MIA, but she’s back now to take down Division and help others like her escape. …Hm.

Cue Alex, just another girl who gets ‘recruited’ after a robbery goes wrong and someone dies. We later learn Alex actually shares a similar backstory with Nikita. Interesting.

Michael: Because you’re a young attractive white female, with virtually no personal ties or paper trail. […] What really managed to grab our attention though was how you managed to kill a criminal we were about to take out.

We also meet Michael who is part of Division and watches as Alex gets brought in. It’s clear he’s been through this many times before, but something says he’s not completely ok with it. And unfortunately for Division, you’re only as strong as your weakest link…

Michael: Your life is over, Alex. I’m here to offer you a new one. But you have to be willing to earn it.
Alex: What have I gotta do?
Michael: Learn. How not to sound like a teen meth-whore, for starters. Learn to stand up straight. Learn how to walk right. Learn how to talk right. Learn how to serve your country… instead of just yourself.

Enter Nikita, she’s the epitome of that. She’s had seven years of Division training and three years on the outside. But the question is, what has she been doing all this time?

Amusing aside, when Maggie Q suggested a one-piece for this scene, wardrobe gave her this one to wear, lol. And a slight nitpick, but why are female action stars so skinny these days? It borders on unbelievable. I’d like a little bit more muscle please.

Nikita: They told me they were giving me a second chance. They told me I’d be serving my country. What they didn’t tell me was they were training me to be an assassin. They’re probably telling some other girl the same thing right now.

One of the things going for this version is the two different stories that can be told through Nikita and Alex. What I don’t like though is how much Nikita’s backstory is like Alias. They really need to differentiate themselves from past spy shows and fast if they want viewers to continue.

Thom: None of us are volunteers.  […]  Meaning we need to stick together if we’re gonna make it through training.

Also, perhaps get rid of annoying characters. I’m not sure I like these new friends of Alex, yet. Plus, pandering to the teen demographic with the whole spy school drama is not going to give the show more credibility. That was a pretty awesome tray and fork moment though.

Amanda: And you’re beautiful. Michael was right about that much.
Alex: So what? You’re the one that’s supposed to teach me how to walk and talk, chew with my mouth closed?
Amanda: My name is Amanda, and I’m the one who’s going to show you how to embrace your beauty and use it to your advantage. Your journey begins right here in this chair.

Another thing I like about the show is the notable names amongst the cast. We have Maggie Q, Lyndsy Fonseca, Shane West, Melinda Clarke, Xander Berkeley, and Aaron Stanford. I look forward to seeing what they can do.

We haven’t seen enough of Amanda yet, but I like that she provides a woman perspective and seemingly softer edge to Division. And it’s obvious she’s not only smart but deadly. I look forward to seeing more of her.

Birkhoff: Just understand that if you do this, you’re gonna have to kill your way though a whole lot of people you know.

I so forgot Aaron Stanford was in this show until after the episode was over. The interrogation was possibly my favorite scene of the episode, and brought a more human quality to Nikita and her mission. The stakes just got a little higher in my opinion.

Jaden: Division doesn’t allow relationships.

Clearly, what Division doesn’t know… I’m sure it won’t be long before Alex gets a love interest.

Amanda: We’re not murderers.  We’re protectors.  We protect our home.
Alex: What home?”
Amanda: Home is where you stop running. […]  It begins with a promise.  You promise to put down the shears.  I promise to forget that this ever happened.  And we begin again.  Welcome home.

For the weak minded I’m sure that sentimental tactic will work. Especially for the type of kids Division targets. Instead I love that Alex used it to seal the deal.

Michael: Safety on. Toss it behind you, don’t turn around. Get down on the ground. Slowly. Spread your arms and your legs.
Nikita: Just like old times, huh?
Michael: Shut up. You were free. You had gotten out, you were gone. What the hell are you doing back here?

I’m intrigued by the Michael/Nikita relationship. I’m left cold by her as a character, but maybe with more of her backstory that’ll change. I’m more interested in Michael and his motivations.

Alex: I’m never gonna get this.
Michael: Yeah, someone told me that once.  She was wrong too.  Remember, you’re just getting started.
…Alex: Damn right.

Reading the script, even I was surprised by the ending. Nikita set this up perfectly. She knew Michael would take Alex under his wing. What I want to know is how close are Nikita and Michael really? Any UST? How close in age?And kudos to Alex who played it well.

So, Nikita was the pig who left her at the beginning? Rewatching that opening scene, I wonder how long had Alex been doing missions with Nikita? Is that what she’s been doing for three years?

I don’t love the show yet. I really think it needs to step up its game to that next level. I want to see more depth of character and themes. But at least this show doesn’t make me wish I was watching Alias instead like Covert Affairs and Undercovers did.

The Vampire Diaries (s2ep01): The Return
★★★★
The second season begins with Elena discovering her uncle’s bloody body and learning Jeremy’s fate. Meanwhile, heart Caroline is taken to the hospital following a car accident, viagra 60mg and Tyler’s mysterious uncle Mason arrives in town.

Nikita (s1ep01): Pilot
★★★
A spy returns to exact revenge on the clandestine agency that betrayed her after training her to be an assassin. In the pilot episode, Nikita (Maggie Q) emerges from three years of hiding to send a message to her former handlers at Division. Meanwhile, new recruit Alex begins her training at Division and discovers what the agency has planned for her future.

John: Behind you!

We open on the same finale scenes, but from another POV and in real time. The show’s inner horror movie is loose as Katherine plays mind games with Elena. She’s still one scary ass mofo after all this time. There’s also a new title sequence/font, but I kind of miss the old one already. 

Stefan/Elena! I *squeed* on seeing them onscreen again. Glad Jeremy is ok and the vamp blood actually healed him. Testament to the show, but I wasn’t really sure if they’d go the vamp route. Maybe this close call will him to grow up? And what’s up with No More Mr. Nice Stefan?

Matt! So underrated as a male character on this show just because he’s the non-vamp nice guy. I love him with Caroline, too. And Damon being friendly with Caroline’s mom and in with the council still amuses me. I’m going to love when they finally realize he’s a vampire.

Bonnie: Do it. This is Caroline. Ok? We can’t let her die. Do it.
Damon: If I do this, you and me, we call a truce?
Bonnie: No, but you’ll do it anyway. For Elena.

Sadly, Bonnie needs to regrow on me. I just haven’t loved her actions as of late. Yes, she’s all badass now, but really at what cost? And now her guilt is causing her to make rash decisions like give Caroline vampire blood. No good can come of this.

Elena: When were you at the house?
Damon: Really? Earlier? We were talking, all cathartic, feelings exposed. Come on, we kissed, Elena.
Elena: Ok…I don’t have time for this, Damon.
Damon: Hey, if you want to forget it happened, fine. But I can’t.

I loved how long it took Damon to realize Elena doesn’t know what anyone is talking about. Thus, I also loved how quickly Stefan notices it’s Katherine and not Elena. Glad one of the two can tell. And that was an awesome vamp out from Stefan and confrontation, btw. +1

Damon: To risk another frown line encroaching on that very crowded forehead… we kissed.

Oh Damon, when things don’t go his way he freaks out. But Stefan also really shouldn’t let Damon get to him. Finally Elena realizes keeping Jeremy in the dark is not a good thing. I know she’s protecting her little brother, but he’s really safer in the know.

Matt and Caroline are such cuteness, and with Bonnie, too. But where is Elena? I think it’s telling that she’s the odd one out, off getting dragged further and further into the supernatural world away from normalcy.

I love these moments with the adult characters of Mystic Falls. It adds another layer of depth to the show and helps to ground it. And I’m all for Tyler having his own storyline, but this new uncle character will have to grow on me.

John: My daughter should have driven a stake through your heart by now. I haven’t spoke with Katherine directly. She never trusted me. So either kill me, or get out. Because I can’t stand the sight of you with my daughter.

Elena: You see the problem with such hatred? It’s gonna get you killed.

I know some people don’t like him, but I think John is a fascinating character. He’s surrounded by vamps from his ex to his daughter’s boyfriend, and still his hate knows no bounds. He even expects his daughter and son to follow his beliefs.

Stefan: Now take my advice—leave town. Elena doesn’t want you here. You have about 24 hours before the blood leaves your system. That’s enough time to disappear. Or so help me god, I will turn you into a vampire and I will watch you hate yourself more than you already do. Clock starts now.

Granted, with Stefan’s next actions, it’s not hard to see why he hates vamps. What Stefan just did, well, I don’t know what to make of it. This is going to come back and bite everyone in the ass. By the end of this season I wonder if Elena will be on the outs with both brothers.

Katherine: Oh, his eyes are so blue!

Yes, Katherine. I loved her quick shift into normal when Bonnie made the doors open. Scary how easily she’s able to pretend she’s Elena. Her fondness for Matt is amusing. And Katherine must be crazy if she actually was surprised that Stefan didn’t come rushing to her.

Elena: That’s not a surprise. I’m surprised that you thought I’d kiss you back.

And same thing for Damon, he must be crazy if he thought Elena would kiss him. And poor, Tyler. Question, why are there always these Tyler and Jeremy scenes? Are they writers up to something? An alliance perhaps between the two characters?

Stefan: Don’t flirt with me, Katherine. I’m not Damon. I haven’t spent 145 years obsessed with you.

Katherine: Yeah. Based on your choice of women, I’d say otherwise. Though I’ll admit, it does bother me that you’ve fallen in love with somebody else.

Touche. I’ve always believed in Stefan’s love for Elena, but it does beg the question as to how one would fall in love with your ex’s doppleganger.

Katherine: You want to know why I’m here, Stefan?  I came back for you.

Stefan: Well, the problem, Katherine…is that I hate you.

Katherine: You hate me, huh? That sounds like the beginning of a love story, Stefan, not the end of one.

I also think there’s more to Stefan being in love with Katherine than anyone knows. He thinks he was compelled, but was he really?

Damon: I kissed Elena.

Stefan: Because you feel something for her. Because you actually care. And I’m not going to let Katherine come in here and destroy that part of you that has finally, after all of this time, willing to feel something. She’ll try to break you. She’ll try to break us. And how we respond to that will define us. It’s our choice. So, no. I’m not going to fight you.

I love, Stefan. He always puts everything into perspective and is certainly the more level headed of the two. If they were both like Damon, we’d all be in big trouble.

John is heading out, but I’m sure he’ll be back. He brings up one of the questions I’ve been wondering, how did Jeremy’s father die with the ring on? There’s more to this than he’s telling. I don’t believe it was all an accident.

Which way will Jeremy go? Follow in his family’s footsteps or not? Which way will Tyler go? Can he help but follow in his family’s footsteps? Can he get control of his anger?

Katherine: The truth is, I’ve never loved you. It was always Stefan.

First dagger. I don’t ship Elena/Damon, but Katherine/Damon is pretty hot. She tells Stefan she’s been avoiding Damon, so I get the feeling she shows up at the end for a reason. It’s like Stefan said, she’ll try to split them up. And really, they’re letting her.

Elena: No, no, no, Damon. I care about you. Listen to me, I care about you. I do, but…I love Stefan. It’s always going to be Stefan.

Second dagger. Damon still hasn’t learned, part of becoming more human is letting your guard down and maybe getting hurt as a result.

Stefan: He saw the ring, that’s why he did it. He knew.

Elena: He didn’t see the ring.

Stefan: It’s Katherine. She got under his skin. She undid everything that was good about him.

Elena: There is nothing good about him. Stefan, not anymore. He’s decided what he wants. He doesn’t want to feel, he wants to be hated. It’s just easier that way. He got his wish. I hate him, Stefan."

Did Damon know Jeremy was wearing the family ring? I think not. I can’t help compare the scene to Buffy/Spike in ‘Seeing Red’. Not as bad, but the same kind of idea.

Do you think Damon is right and Elena’s been giving him signs? Can Damon be forgiven for this? Why is Stefan defending him?

Katherine: Game on.

Double whammy, Katherine smothering poor Carolina with a pillow. Of course she’s not dead, not with vamp blood in her system, but wow. Why is she always getting the short end of every stick? And OMG, poor Matt, too.

Nikita: My name is Nikita. Six years ago I was taken out of prison and forced by a covert unit of the government to be an assassin. Three years ago I escaped and have been hunted ever since. I was the first recruit to get out. I’m going to make certain I’m not the last.

Thus is the premise of this fourth incarnation, which had better have a new take if it wants to succeed. Lucky for them, the story of Nikita after she leaves Division has never been told. So, Nikita’s been MIA, but she’s back now to take down Division and help others like her escape. …Hm.

Cue Alex, just another girl who gets ‘recruited’ after a robbery goes wrong and someone dies. We later learn Alex actually shares a similar backstory with Nikita. Interesting.

Michael: Because you’re a young attractive white female, with virtually no personal ties or paper trail. […] What really managed to grab our attention though was how you managed to kill a criminal we were about to take out.

We also meet Michael who is part of Division and watches as Alex gets brought in. It’s clear he’s been through this many times before, but something says he’s not completely ok with it. And unfortunately for Division, you’re only as strong as your weakest link…

Michael: Your life is over, Alex. I’m here to offer you a new one. But you have to be willing to earn it.
Alex: What have I gotta do?
Michael: Learn. How not to sound like a teen meth-whore, for starters. Learn to stand up straight. Learn how to walk right. Learn how to talk right. Learn how to serve your country… instead of just yourself.

Enter Nikita, she’s the epitome of that. She’s had seven years of Division training and three years on the outside. But the question is, what has she been doing all this time?

Amusing aside, when Maggie Q suggested a one-piece for this scene, wardrobe gave her this one to wear, lol. And a slight nitpick, but why are female action stars so skinny these days? It borders on unbelievable. I’d like a little bit more muscle please.

Nikita: They told me they were giving me a second chance. They told me I’d be serving my country. What they didn’t tell me was they were training me to be an assassin. They’re probably telling some other girl the same thing right now.

One of the things going for this version is the two different stories that can be told through Nikita and Alex. What I don’t like though is how much Nikita’s backstory is like Alias. They really need to differentiate themselves from past spy shows and fast if they want viewers to continue.

Thom: None of us are volunteers.  […]  Meaning we need to stick together if we’re gonna make it through training.

Also, perhaps get rid of annoying characters. I’m not sure I like these new friends of Alex, yet. Plus, pandering to the teen demographic with the whole spy school drama is not going to give the show more credibility. That was a pretty awesome tray and fork moment though.

Amanda: And you’re beautiful. Michael was right about that much.
Alex: So what? You’re the one that’s supposed to teach me how to walk and talk, chew with my mouth closed?
Amanda: My name is Amanda, and I’m the one who’s going to show you how to embrace your beauty and use it to your advantage. Your journey begins right here in this chair.

Another thing I like about the show is the notable names amongst the cast. We have Maggie Q, Lyndsy Fonseca, Shane West, Melinda Clarke, Xander Berkeley, and Aaron Stanford. I look forward to seeing what they can do.

We haven’t seen enough of Amanda yet, but I like that she provides a woman perspective and seemingly softer edge to Division. And it’s obvious she’s not only smart but deadly. I look forward to seeing more of her.

Birkhoff: Just understand that if you do this, you’re gonna have to kill your way though a whole lot of people you know.

I so forgot Aaron Stanford was in this show until after the episode was over. The interrogation was possibly my favorite scene of the episode, and brought a more human quality to Nikita and her mission. The stakes just got a little higher in my opinion.

Jaden: Division doesn’t allow relationships.

Clearly, what Division doesn’t know… I’m sure it won’t be long before Alex gets a love interest.

Amanda: We’re not murderers.  We’re protectors.  We protect our home.
Alex: What home?”
Amanda: Home is where you stop running. […]  It begins with a promise.  You promise to put down the shears.  I promise to forget that this ever happened.  And we begin again.  Welcome home.

For the weak minded I’m sure that sentimental tactic will work. Especially for the type of kids Division targets. Instead I love that Alex used it to seal the deal.

Michael: Safety on. Toss it behind you, don’t turn around. Get down on the ground. Slowly. Spread your arms and your legs.
Nikita: Just like old times, huh?
Michael: Shut up. You were free. You had gotten out, you were gone. What the hell are you doing back here?

I’m intrigued by the Michael/Nikita relationship. I’m left cold by her as a character, but maybe with more of her backstory that’ll change. I’m more interested in Michael and his motivations.

Alex: I’m never gonna get this.
Michael: Yeah, someone told me that once.  She was wrong too.  Remember, you’re just getting started.
…Alex: Damn right.

Reading the script, even I was surprised by the ending. Nikita set this up perfectly. She knew Michael would take Alex under his wing. What I want to know is how close are Nikita and Michael really? Any UST? How close in age?And kudos to Alex who played it well.

So, Nikita was the pig who left her at the beginning? Rewatching that opening scene, I wonder how long had Alex been doing missions with Nikita? Is that what she’s been doing for three years?

I don’t love the show yet. I really think it needs to step up its game to that next level. I want to see more depth of character and themes. But at least this show doesn’t make me wish I was watching Alias instead like Covert Affairs and Undercovers did.

The second season begins with Elena discovering her uncle’s bloody body and learning Jeremy’s fate. Meanwhile, viagra 100mg Caroline is taken to the hospital following a car accident, dosage and Tyler’s mysterious uncle Mason arrives in town.

Nikita (s1ep01): Pilot
★★★

A spy returns to exact revenge on the clandestine agency that betrayed her after training her to be an assassin. In the pilot episode, Nikita (Maggie Q) emerges from three years of hiding to send a message to her former handlers at Division. Meanwhile, new recruit Alex begins her training at Division and discovers what the agency has planned for her future.

John: Behind you!

We open on the same finale scenes, but from another POV and in real time. The show’s inner horror movie is loose as Katherine plays mind games with Elena. She’s still one scary ass mofo after all this time. There’s also a new title sequence/font, but I kind of miss the old one already. 

Stefan/Elena! I *squeed* on seeing them onscreen again. Glad Jeremy is ok and the vamp blood actually healed him. Testament to the show, but I wasn’t really sure if they’d go the vamp route. Maybe this close call will him to grow up? And what’s up with No More Mr. Nice Stefan?

Matt! So underrated as a male character on this show just because he’s the non-vamp nice guy. I love him with Caroline, too. And Damon being friendly with Caroline’s mom and in with the council still amuses me. I’m going to love when they finally realize he’s a vampire.

Bonnie: Do it. This is Caroline. Ok? We can’t let her die. Do it.
Damon: If I do this, you and me, we call a truce?
Bonnie: No, but you’ll do it anyway. For Elena.

Sadly, Bonnie needs to regrow on me. I just haven’t loved her actions as of late. Yes, she’s all badass now, but really at what cost? And now her guilt is causing her to make rash decisions like give Caroline vampire blood. No good can come of this.

Elena: When were you at the house?
Damon: Really? Earlier? We were talking, all cathartic, feelings exposed. Come on, we kissed, Elena.
Elena: Ok…I don’t have time for this, Damon.
Damon: Hey, if you want to forget it happened, fine. But I can’t.

I loved how long it took Damon to realize Elena doesn’t know what anyone is talking about. Thus, I also loved how quickly Stefan notices it’s Katherine and not Elena. Glad one of the two can tell. And that was an awesome vamp out from Stefan and confrontation, btw. +1

Damon: To risk another frown line encroaching on that very crowded forehead… we kissed.

Oh Damon, when things don’t go his way he freaks out. But Stefan also really shouldn’t let Damon get to him. Finally Elena realizes keeping Jeremy in the dark is not a good thing. I know she’s protecting her little brother, but he’s really safer in the know.

Matt and Caroline are such cuteness, and with Bonnie, too. But where is Elena? I think it’s telling that she’s the odd one out, off getting dragged further and further into the supernatural world away from normalcy.

I love these moments with the adult characters of Mystic Falls. It adds another layer of depth to the show and helps to ground it. And I’m all for Tyler having his own storyline, but this new uncle character will have to grow on me.

John: My daughter should have driven a stake through your heart by now. I haven’t spoke with Katherine directly. She never trusted me. So either kill me, or get out. Because I can’t stand the sight of you with my daughter.

Elena: You see the problem with such hatred? It’s gonna get you killed.

I know some people don’t like him, but I think John is a fascinating character. He’s surrounded by vamps from his ex to his daughter’s boyfriend, and still his hate knows no bounds. He even expects his daughter and son to follow his beliefs.

Stefan: Now take my advice—leave town. Elena doesn’t want you here. You have about 24 hours before the blood leaves your system. That’s enough time to disappear. Or so help me god, I will turn you into a vampire and I will watch you hate yourself more than you already do. Clock starts now.

Granted, with Stefan’s next actions, it’s not hard to see why he hates vamps. What Stefan just did, well, I don’t know what to make of it. This is going to come back and bite everyone in the ass. By the end of this season I wonder if Elena will be on the outs with both brothers.

Katherine: Oh, his eyes are so blue!

Yes, Katherine. I loved her quick shift into normal when Bonnie made the doors open. Scary how easily she’s able to pretend she’s Elena. Her fondness for Matt is amusing. And Katherine must be crazy if she actually was surprised that Stefan didn’t come rushing to her.

Elena: That’s not a surprise. I’m surprised that you thought I’d kiss you back.

And same thing for Damon, he must be crazy if he thought Elena would kiss him. And poor, Tyler. Question, why are there always these Tyler and Jeremy scenes? Are they writers up to something? An alliance perhaps between the two characters?

Stefan: Don’t flirt with me, Katherine. I’m not Damon. I haven’t spent 145 years obsessed with you.

Katherine: Yeah. Based on your choice of women, I’d say otherwise. Though I’ll admit, it does bother me that you’ve fallen in love with somebody else.

Touche. I’ve always believed in Stefan’s love for Elena, but it does beg the question as to how one would fall in love with your ex’s doppleganger.

Katherine: You want to know why I’m here, Stefan?  I came back for you.

Stefan: Well, the problem, Katherine…is that I hate you.

Katherine: You hate me, huh? That sounds like the beginning of a love story, Stefan, not the end of one.

I also think there’s more to Stefan being in love with Katherine than anyone knows. He thinks he was compelled, but was he really?

Damon: I kissed Elena.

Stefan: Because you feel something for her. Because you actually care. And I’m not going to let Katherine come in here and destroy that part of you that has finally, after all of this time, willing to feel something. She’ll try to break you. She’ll try to break us. And how we respond to that will define us. It’s our choice. So, no. I’m not going to fight you.

I love, Stefan. He always puts everything into perspective and is certainly the more level headed of the two. If they were both like Damon, we’d all be in big trouble.

John is heading out, but I’m sure he’ll be back. He brings up one of the questions I’ve been wondering, how did Jeremy’s father die with the ring on? There’s more to this than he’s telling. I don’t believe it was all an accident.

Which way will Jeremy go? Follow in his family’s footsteps or not? Which way will Tyler go? Can he help but follow in his family’s footsteps? Can he get control of his anger?

Katherine: The truth is, I’ve never loved you. It was always Stefan.

First dagger. I don’t ship Elena/Damon, but Katherine/Damon is pretty hot. She tells Stefan she’s been avoiding Damon, so I get the feeling she shows up at the end for a reason. It’s like Stefan said, she’ll try to split them up. And really, they’re letting her.

Elena: No, no, no, Damon. I care about you. Listen to me, I care about you. I do, but…I love Stefan. It’s always going to be Stefan.

Second dagger. Damon still hasn’t learned, part of becoming more human is letting your guard down and maybe getting hurt as a result.

Stefan: He saw the ring, that’s why he did it. He knew.

Elena: He didn’t see the ring.

Stefan: It’s Katherine. She got under his skin. She undid everything that was good about him.

Elena: There is nothing good about him. Stefan, not anymore. He’s decided what he wants. He doesn’t want to feel, he wants to be hated. It’s just easier that way. He got his wish. I hate him, Stefan."

Did Damon know Jeremy was wearing the family ring? I think not. I can’t help compare the scene to Buffy/Spike in ‘Seeing Red’. Not as bad, but the same kind of idea.

Do you think Damon is right and Elena’s been giving him signs? Can Damon be forgiven for this? Why is Stefan defending him?

Katherine: Game on.

Double whammy, Katherine smothering poor Carolina with a pillow. Of course she’s not dead, not with vamp blood in her system, but wow. Why is she always getting the short end of every stick? And OMG, poor Matt, too.

Nikita: My name is Nikita. Six years ago I was taken out of prison and forced by a covert unit of the government to be an assassin. Three years ago I escaped and have been hunted ever since. I was the first recruit to get out. I’m going to make certain I’m not the last.

Thus is the premise of this fourth incarnation, which had better have a new take if it wants to succeed. Lucky for them, the story of Nikita after she leaves Division has never been told. So, Nikita’s been MIA, but she’s back now to take down Division and help others like her escape. …Hm.

Cue Alex, just another girl who gets ‘recruited’ after a robbery goes wrong and someone dies. We later learn Alex actually shares a similar backstory with Nikita. Interesting.

Michael: Because you’re a young attractive white female, with virtually no personal ties or paper trail. […] What really managed to grab our attention though was how you managed to kill a criminal we were about to take out.

We also meet Michael who is part of Division and watches as Alex gets brought in. It’s clear he’s been through this many times before, but something says he’s not completely ok with it. And unfortunately for Division, you’re only as strong as your weakest link…

Michael: Your life is over, Alex. I’m here to offer you a new one. But you have to be willing to earn it.
Alex: What have I gotta do?
Michael: Learn. How not to sound like a teen meth-whore, for starters. Learn to stand up straight. Learn how to walk right. Learn how to talk right. Learn how to serve your country… instead of just yourself.

Enter Nikita, she’s the epitome of that. She’s had seven years of Division training and three years on the outside. But the question is, what has she been doing all this time?

Amusing aside, when Maggie Q suggested a one-piece for this scene, wardrobe gave her this one to wear, lol. And a slight nitpick, but why are female action stars so skinny these days? It borders on unbelievable. I’d like a little bit more muscle please.

Nikita: They told me they were giving me a second chance. They told me I’d be serving my country. What they didn’t tell me was they were training me to be an assassin. They’re probably telling some other girl the same thing right now.

One of the things going for this version is the two different stories that can be told through Nikita and Alex. What I don’t like though is how much Nikita’s backstory is like Alias. They really need to differentiate themselves from past spy shows and fast if they want viewers to continue.

Thom: None of us are volunteers.  […]  Meaning we need to stick together if we’re gonna make it through training.

Also, perhaps get rid of annoying characters. I’m not sure I like these new friends of Alex, yet. Plus, pandering to the teen demographic with the whole spy school drama is not going to give the show more credibility. That was a pretty awesome tray and fork moment though.

Amanda: And you’re beautiful. Michael was right about that much.
Alex: So what? You’re the one that’s supposed to teach me how to walk and talk, chew with my mouth closed?
Amanda: My name is Amanda, and I’m the one who’s going to show you how to embrace your beauty and use it to your advantage. Your journey begins right here in this chair.

Another thing I like about the show is the notable names amongst the cast. We have Maggie Q, Lyndsy Fonseca, Shane West, Melinda Clarke, Xander Berkeley, and Aaron Stanford. I look forward to seeing what they can do.

We haven’t seen enough of Amanda yet, but I like that she provides a woman perspective and seemingly softer edge to Division. And it’s obvious she’s not only smart but deadly. I look forward to seeing more of her.

Birkhoff: Just understand that if you do this, you’re gonna have to kill your way though a whole lot of people you know.

I so forgot Aaron Stanford was in this show until after the episode was over. The interrogation was possibly my favorite scene of the episode, and brought a more human quality to Nikita and her mission. The stakes just got a little higher in my opinion.

Jaden: Division doesn’t allow relationships.

Clearly, what Division doesn’t know… I’m sure it won’t be long before Alex gets a love interest.

Amanda: We’re not murderers.  We’re protectors.  We protect our home.
Alex: What home?”
Amanda: Home is where you stop running. […]  It begins with a promise.  You promise to put down the shears.  I promise to forget that this ever happened.  And we begin again.  Welcome home.

For the weak minded I’m sure that sentimental tactic will work. Especially for the type of kids Division targets. Instead I love that Alex used it to seal the deal.

Michael: Safety on. Toss it behind you, don’t turn around. Get down on the ground. Slowly. Spread your arms and your legs.
Nikita: Just like old times, huh?
Michael: Shut up. You were free. You had gotten out, you were gone. What the hell are you doing back here?

I’m intrigued by the Michael/Nikita relationship. I’m left cold by her as a character, but maybe with more of her backstory that’ll change. I’m more interested in Michael and his motivations.

Alex: I’m never gonna get this.
Michael: Yeah, someone told me that once.  She was wrong too.  Remember, you’re just getting started.
…Alex: Damn right.

Reading the script, even I was surprised by the ending. Nikita set this up perfectly. She knew Michael would take Alex under his wing. What I want to know is how close are Nikita and Michael really? Any UST? How close in age?And kudos to Alex who played it well.

So, Nikita was the pig who left her at the beginning? Rewatching that opening scene, I wonder how long had Alex been doing missions with Nikita? Is that what she’s been doing for three years?

I don’t love the show yet. I really think it needs to step up its game to that next level. I want to see more depth of character and themes. But at least this show doesn’t make me wish I was watching Alias instead like Covert Affairs and Undercovers did.

The second season begins with Elena discovering her uncle’s bloody body and learning Jeremy’s fate. Meanwhile, cardiology Caroline is taken to the hospital following a car accident, diagnosis and Tyler’s mysterious uncle Mason arrives in town.

Nikita (s1ep01): Pilot
★★★

A spy returns to exact revenge on the clandestine agency that betrayed her after training her to be an assassin. In the pilot episode, Nikita (Maggie Q) emerges from three years of hiding to send a message to her former handlers at Division. Meanwhile, new recruit Alex begins her training at Division and discovers what the agency has planned for her future.

John: Behind you!

We open on the same finale scenes, but from another POV and in real time. The show’s inner horror movie is loose as Katherine plays mind games with Elena. She’s still one scary ass mofo after all this time. There’s also a new title sequence/font, but I kind of miss the old one already. 

Stefan/Elena! I *squeed* on seeing them onscreen again. Glad Jeremy is ok and the vamp blood actually healed him. Testament to the show, but I wasn’t really sure if they’d go the vamp route. Maybe this close call will him to grow up? And what’s up with No More Mr. Nice Stefan?

Matt! So underrated as a male character on this show just because he’s the non-vamp nice guy. I love him with Caroline, too. And Damon being friendly with Caroline’s mom and in with the council still amuses me. I’m going to love when they finally realize he’s a vampire.

Bonnie: Do it. This is Caroline. Ok? We can’t let her die. Do it.
Damon: If I do this, you and me, we call a truce?
Bonnie: No, but you’ll do it anyway. For Elena.

Sadly, Bonnie needs to regrow on me. I just haven’t loved her actions as of late. Yes, she’s all badass now, but really at what cost? And now her guilt is causing her to make rash decisions like give Caroline vampire blood. No good can come of this.

Elena: When were you at the house?
Damon: Really? Earlier? We were talking, all cathartic, feelings exposed. Come on, we kissed, Elena.
Elena: Ok…I don’t have time for this, Damon.
Damon: Hey, if you want to forget it happened, fine. But I can’t.

I loved how long it took Damon to realize Elena doesn’t know what anyone is talking about. Thus, I also loved how quickly Stefan notices it’s Katherine and not Elena. Glad one of the two can tell. And that was an awesome vamp out from Stefan and confrontation, btw. +1

Damon: To risk another frown line encroaching on that very crowded forehead… we kissed.

Oh Damon, when things don’t go his way he freaks out. But Stefan also really shouldn’t let Damon get to him. Finally Elena realizes keeping Jeremy in the dark is not a good thing. I know she’s protecting her little brother, but he’s really safer in the know.

Matt and Caroline are such cuteness, and with Bonnie, too. But where is Elena? I think it’s telling that she’s the odd one out, off getting dragged further and further into the supernatural world away from normalcy.

I love these moments with the adult characters of Mystic Falls. It adds another layer of depth to the show and helps to ground it. And I’m all for Tyler having his own storyline, but this new uncle character will have to grow on me.

John: My daughter should have driven a stake through your heart by now. I haven’t spoke with Katherine directly. She never trusted me. So either kill me, or get out. Because I can’t stand the sight of you with my daughter.

Elena: You see the problem with such hatred? It’s gonna get you killed.

I know some people don’t like him, but I think John is a fascinating character. He’s surrounded by vamps from his ex to his daughter’s boyfriend, and still his hate knows no bounds. He even expects his daughter and son to follow his beliefs.

Stefan: Now take my advice—leave town. Elena doesn’t want you here. You have about 24 hours before the blood leaves your system. That’s enough time to disappear. Or so help me god, I will turn you into a vampire and I will watch you hate yourself more than you already do. Clock starts now.

Granted, with Stefan’s next actions, it’s not hard to see why he hates vamps. What Stefan just did, well, I don’t know what to make of it. This is going to come back and bite everyone in the ass. By the end of this season I wonder if Elena will be on the outs with both brothers.

Katherine: Oh, his eyes are so blue!

Yes, Katherine. I loved her quick shift into normal when Bonnie made the doors open. Scary how easily she’s able to pretend she’s Elena. Her fondness for Matt is amusing. And Katherine must be crazy if she actually was surprised that Stefan didn’t come rushing to her.

Elena: That’s not a surprise. I’m surprised that you thought I’d kiss you back.

And same thing for Damon, he must be crazy if he thought Elena would kiss him. And poor, Tyler. Question, why are there always these Tyler and Jeremy scenes? Are they writers up to something? An alliance perhaps between the two characters?

Stefan: Don’t flirt with me, Katherine. I’m not Damon. I haven’t spent 145 years obsessed with you.

Katherine: Yeah. Based on your choice of women, I’d say otherwise. Though I’ll admit, it does bother me that you’ve fallen in love with somebody else.

Touche. I’ve always believed in Stefan’s love for Elena, but it does beg the question as to how one would fall in love with your ex’s doppleganger.

Katherine: You want to know why I’m here, Stefan?  I came back for you.

Stefan: Well, the problem, Katherine…is that I hate you.

Katherine: You hate me, huh? That sounds like the beginning of a love story, Stefan, not the end of one.

I also think there’s more to Stefan being in love with Katherine than anyone knows. He thinks he was compelled, but was he really?

Damon: I kissed Elena.

Stefan: Because you feel something for her. Because you actually care. And I’m not going to let Katherine come in here and destroy that part of you that has finally, after all of this time, willing to feel something. She’ll try to break you. She’ll try to break us. And how we respond to that will define us. It’s our choice. So, no. I’m not going to fight you.

I love, Stefan. He always puts everything into perspective and is certainly the more level headed of the two. If they were both like Damon, we’d all be in big trouble.

John is heading out, but I’m sure he’ll be back. He brings up one of the questions I’ve been wondering, how did Jeremy’s father die with the ring on? There’s more to this than he’s telling. I don’t believe it was all an accident.

Which way will Jeremy go? Follow in his family’s footsteps or not? Which way will Tyler go? Can he help but follow in his family’s footsteps? Can he get control of his anger?

Katherine: The truth is, I’ve never loved you. It was always Stefan.

First dagger. I don’t ship Elena/Damon, but Katherine/Damon is pretty hot. She tells Stefan she’s been avoiding Damon, so I get the feeling she shows up at the end for a reason. It’s like Stefan said, she’ll try to split them up. And really, they’re letting her.

Elena: No, no, no, Damon. I care about you. Listen to me, I care about you. I do, but…I love Stefan. It’s always going to be Stefan.

Second dagger. Damon still hasn’t learned, part of becoming more human is letting your guard down and maybe getting hurt as a result.

Stefan: He saw the ring, that’s why he did it. He knew.

Elena: He didn’t see the ring.

Stefan: It’s Katherine. She got under his skin. She undid everything that was good about him.

Elena: There is nothing good about him. Stefan, not anymore. He’s decided what he wants. He doesn’t want to feel, he wants to be hated. It’s just easier that way. He got his wish. I hate him, Stefan."

Did Damon know Jeremy was wearing the family ring? I think not. I can’t help compare the scene to Buffy/Spike in ‘Seeing Red’. Not as bad, but the same kind of idea.

Do you think Damon is right and Elena’s been giving him signs? Can Damon be forgiven for this? Why is Stefan defending him?

Katherine: Game on.

Double whammy, Katherine smothering poor Carolina with a pillow. Of course she’s not dead, not with vamp blood in her system, but wow. Why is she always getting the short end of every stick? And OMG, poor Matt, too.

Nikita: My name is Nikita. Six years ago I was taken out of prison and forced by a covert unit of the government to be an assassin. Three years ago I escaped and have been hunted ever since. I was the first recruit to get out. I’m going to make certain I’m not the last.

Thus is the premise of this fourth incarnation, which had better have a new take if it wants to succeed. Lucky for them, the story of Nikita after she leaves Division has never been told. So, Nikita’s been MIA, but she’s back now to take down Division and help others like her escape. …Hm.

Cue Alex, just another girl who gets ‘recruited’ after a robbery goes wrong and someone dies. We later learn Alex actually shares a similar backstory with Nikita. Interesting.

Michael: Because you’re a young attractive white female, with virtually no personal ties or paper trail. […] What really managed to grab our attention though was how you managed to kill a criminal we were about to take out.

We also meet Michael who is part of Division and watches as Alex gets brought in. It’s clear he’s been through this many times before, but something says he’s not completely ok with it. And unfortunately for Division, you’re only as strong as your weakest link…

Michael: Your life is over, Alex. I’m here to offer you a new one. But you have to be willing to earn it.
Alex: What have I gotta do?
Michael: Learn. How not to sound like a teen meth-whore, for starters. Learn to stand up straight. Learn how to walk right. Learn how to talk right. Learn how to serve your country… instead of just yourself.

Enter Nikita, she’s the epitome of that. She’s had seven years of Division training and three years on the outside. But the question is, what has she been doing all this time?

Amusing aside, when Maggie Q suggested a one-piece for this scene, wardrobe gave her this one to wear, lol. And a slight nitpick, but why are female action stars so skinny these days? It borders on unbelievable. I’d like a little bit more muscle please.

Nikita: They told me they were giving me a second chance. They told me I’d be serving my country. What they didn’t tell me was they were training me to be an assassin. They’re probably telling some other girl the same thing right now.

One of the things going for this version is the two different stories that can be told through Nikita and Alex. What I don’t like though is how much Nikita’s backstory is like Alias. They really need to differentiate themselves from past spy shows and fast if they want viewers to continue.

Thom: None of us are volunteers.  […]  Meaning we need to stick together if we’re gonna make it through training.

Also, perhaps get rid of annoying characters. I’m not sure I like these new friends of Alex, yet. Plus, pandering to the teen demographic with the whole spy school drama is not going to give the show more credibility. That was a pretty awesome tray and fork moment though.

Amanda: And you’re beautiful. Michael was right about that much.
Alex: So what? You’re the one that’s supposed to teach me how to walk and talk, chew with my mouth closed?
Amanda: My name is Amanda, and I’m the one who’s going to show you how to embrace your beauty and use it to your advantage. Your journey begins right here in this chair.

Another thing I like about the show is the notable names amongst the cast. We have Maggie Q, Lyndsy Fonseca, Shane West, Melinda Clarke, Xander Berkeley, and Aaron Stanford. I look forward to seeing what they can do.

We haven’t seen enough of Amanda yet, but I like that she provides a woman perspective and seemingly softer edge to Division. And it’s obvious she’s not only smart but deadly. I look forward to seeing more of her.

Birkhoff: Just understand that if you do this, you’re gonna have to kill your way though a whole lot of people you know.

I so forgot Aaron Stanford was in this show until after the episode was over. The interrogation was possibly my favorite scene of the episode, and brought a more human quality to Nikita and her mission. The stakes just got a little higher in my opinion.

Jaden: Division doesn’t allow relationships.

Clearly, what Division doesn’t know… I’m sure it won’t be long before Alex gets a love interest.

Amanda: We’re not murderers.  We’re protectors.  We protect our home.
Alex: What home?”
Amanda: Home is where you stop running. […]  It begins with a promise.  You promise to put down the shears.  I promise to forget that this ever happened.  And we begin again.  Welcome home.

For the weak minded I’m sure that sentimental tactic will work. Especially for the type of kids Division targets. Instead I love that Alex used it to seal the deal.

Michael: Safety on. Toss it behind you, don’t turn around. Get down on the ground. Slowly. Spread your arms and your legs.
Nikita: Just like old times, huh?
Michael: Shut up. You were free. You had gotten out, you were gone. What the hell are you doing back here?

I’m intrigued by the Michael/Nikita relationship. I’m left cold by her as a character, but maybe with more of her backstory that’ll change. I’m more interested in Michael and his motivations.

Alex: I’m never gonna get this.
Michael: Yeah, someone told me that once.  She was wrong too.  Remember, you’re just getting started.
…Alex: Damn right.

Reading the script, even I was surprised by the ending. Nikita set this up perfectly. She knew Michael would take Alex under his wing. What I want to know is how close are Nikita and Michael really? Any UST? How close in age?And kudos to Alex who played it well.

So, Nikita was the pig who left her at the beginning? Rewatching that opening scene, I wonder how long had Alex been doing missions with Nikita? Is that what she’s been doing for three years?

I don’t love the show yet. I really think it needs to step up its game to that next level. I want to see more depth of character and themes. But at least this show doesn’t make me wish I was watching Alias instead like Covert Affairs and Undercovers did.

Nikita (s1ep01): Pilot
★★★
A spy returns to exact revenge on the clandestine agency that betrayed her after training her to be an assassin. In the pilot episode, Nikita (Maggie Q) emerges from three years of hiding to send a message to her former handlers at Division. Meanwhile, new recruit Alex begins her training at Division and discovers what the agency has planned for her future.