Summer is coming to a close, which means two things. Many of the brilliant summer shows that cable gave us this year are over or close to, and its time for the fall premiers. Two of my favorite Virgin Diaries posts also found some closure, as Buffy finished high school, and Veronica just finished.

Defying Gravity

“Do you guys ever get, like really bad cramping when you clench your butt checks together like that?” — Wass

Greek

“He was a nerd but he was hot … it was just so confusing.” — Random ZBZ sister to Casey, about Max

“I had to fake a nosebleed to get out of there.” — Dale to Calvin, on how he supposedly escaped from Sheila at the party

Weeds

“Where do you get your intel?” — Silas, after Shane played six degrees of celebrity venereal diseases with him
“I make it up.” — Shane

“Adelita’s a junkie.” — Nancy
“I think with the accent it’s ‘yunkie’.” — Andy

Selections from the Virgin Diaries

Veronica Mars

“Hello, Stosh. What do you say we head out, have a few beers?” — Keith
“That’s one of those trick questions, isn’t it?” — Piz
“I got some new IDs for you. Wallace.” — Keith
“This picture is Jon Bon Jovi.” — Piz
“Yes. It is.” — Keith
“Biggie Smalls? We don’t really all look alike, Mr. Mars.” — Wallace
“I know that, Wallace. Now, let’s go out and get our drink on.” — Keith

“Tell your roommate I came by hoping to kill time between classes getting to second base with someone, and then left unsatisfied.” — Veronica
“He’s a good guy, Veronica. Try not to rip out his heart.” — Wallace

“I’m looking for detective Mars.” — Kizza
“I’m detective Mars.” — Veronica
“But you’re just a girl. You’re a teenager.” — Kizza
“A girl, a teenager, and a private detective – I’m a triple threat. Barely fits on my business card.” — Veronica

“I just hope Piz isn’t planning on moping his way through the remainder of freshman year. It’s not like I’m taking an internship at a Mister Softee in Wachoota. It’s the FBI. The F. B. I.” — Veronica
“At the very least, Piz should think it’s hot.” — Mac
“Actually, he does think it’s pretty hot. He’d just think it was hotter if I were doing it in Neptune.” — Veronica
“He wants to date you and be near you? Greedy little bugger.” — Mac
“And if he didn’t care, I’d probably be complaining about that … to my girlfriend … while waiting to pay for frozen yogurt. I’m a girl!” — Veronica

“I think I read in Teen People that a clean leg shave will make that special boy sit up and take notice.” — Veronica
“I read in FHM that boys like bare breasts.” — Mac
“Interesting. I did not know that. Bare breasts, you say? Hmmm….” — Veronica

House

“I assume you’ve been in love?” — Henry
“Is that the one that makes your pants feel funny?” — House

“You blow dry your hair?” — House
“Oh sorry, did I wake you up?” — Wilson
“You blow dry your hair?” — House
“Excuse me for actually caring what I look like.” — Wilson
“I think the word you’re looking for is obsessing!” — House

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

“Looks like a job for Wiccan girl. What do you say, Will? Big-time danger.” — Buffy
“Hey, I eat danger for breakfast.” — Willow
“But oddly enough, she panics in the face of breakfast foods.” — Xander

“Look, I know you find me attractive. I’ve seen you looking at my breasts.” — Anya
“Nothing personal, but when a guy does that it just means his eyes are open.” — Xander
“Whatever. Look, do you wanna go with me or not?” — Xander [Xander's eyes lower for a second, then flick back up to Anya's face.]

“I’m going to miss her.” — Willow, about Harmony
“Don’t you hate her?” — Buffy
“Yes, with a fiery vengeance. She picked on me for ten years. Vacuous tramp…. It’s like a sickness, Buffy. I’m missing everything. I miss P.E.!” — Willow

“Guys. Take a moment to deal with this. We survived.” — Oz
“It was a hell of a battle.” — Buffy
“Not the battle. High School.” — Oz

Related posts

• Quotation Marks – Exorcisms, Ann Margret, and … a Gilmore Girl?
• Quotation Marks – Baiting, Treking, and Abstinence
• Quotations Marks – Eliot knocks Hardison, Weeds knocks hipocrisy, and FX showrunners knock NBC

(Season 3, Episodes 19-20)

Well, that’s that. Veronica Mars is all over, and it definitely went out with a whimper, not with a bang. I suppose I have to cut the show runners some slack, as they didn’t prepare the end of season three to be their swan song.

Coming into the final season I was really wary. A couple people even told me not to bother with it for my diary, as it was so sub-par. Honestly, I thought that episode for episode, season three was just as good as the first two. Granted, there wasn’t an overarching mystery, but I did enjoy the two mini-arcs that were featured. After that, though, the remaining handful of episodes were pretty terrible. Honestly, though, season one and two had some lousy episodes sprinkled in, too.

“Weevils Wobble But They Don’t Go Down”

I really enjoyed this episode; I thought it featured Veronica at her best. I thought it was a riot that she went around flashing her PI badge. It was classic VM fun watching her take down a group of spoiled rich kids. It definitely felt like the early seasons again, particularly with her having to bail Weevil out of trouble.

I have to admit that Piz is a whole lot less annoying than I thought he was going to be. When I was warned that he was just Duncan 2.0, I got really nervous. I think he’s far less annoying than Duncan ever was, and, frankly, with the aggravating behavior from Logan through the majority of this season, it was nice to see Veronica with someone else.

“The Bitch Is Back”

This episode barely felt like a season finale, let alone a series finale. The big question that popped into my head watching this was why The Castle would have tapped Wallace to begin with. Didn’t he almost flunk out of his major? Didn’t he have to quit basketball for a term just to get his shit together? Wallace is a great guy and all, but he doesn’t scream “future power broker of America” to me. That’s just a small nitpick on my end, though.

The real star of this episode, and every other episode really, was Veronica. She’s at her best when she’s seeking revenge from those who have wronged her. It was great to watch her completely destroy the one guy who refused to give her information — cutting off his credit cards, vandalizing his car, etc. At the end of the day, Veronica really is a great character, and I’m starting to see why so many fans are clamoring for a movie.

Part of her greatness comes from all her flaws, and they were on full display in the finale. She wasn’t exactly thinking about consequences when she broke into Jake Kane’s home and stole his hard drive. Unfortunately, it was Keith who had to pay the price. It would have been interesting to see what season four would have looked like with charges being filed against the elder Mars.

Of course, from what I hear, season four was going to fast forward and feature Veronica in the FBI. After watching the pitch video that was made to show to the network bigwigs, I think it could have worked, but it definitely wouldn’t have been for everyone, as it would have been a whole new set of characters. If you haven’t seen it, I’ve embedded the video below.

Related posts

• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – Paul Rudd tears it up
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – the case is solved and… Logan babysits?
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – Monkeys, Hookers, and RU-485

(Season 3, Episodes 16-18)

Thank god for Paul Rudd. With no big mystery stringing these final episodes together, there isn’t a whole lot of focus. Keith is back in the sheriff’s office — which is still strange — and the dating musical-chairs game is in full swing. It’s a shame, as this certainly isn’t a really strong way to end the series. I’ve been told that the series finale is a strong one, though. I’ll find out soon.

“Un-American Graffiti“

This wasn’t a bad episode, but there wasn’t really a whole lot going on. The case of the week had some interesting aspects, but it was a little contrived for my tastes. It didn’t have any of the clever twists, or plays on common stereotypes, that most episodes of the show have. An angry, ignorant American attacks the local Arabs. I think it could have been a little more clever.

The sub-plot with the underage drinking in the bars on campus wasn’t that spectacular either. I like that someone finally called out Veronica on some of her moral ambiguity (making fake IDs) after she has been riding her high horse for most of the season. The rest of the story line was subpar, though. Keith is awesome and a good guy. We get it. Lamb was a corrupt moron. We get it.

“Debasement Tapes“

This was definitely the winner out of this group of episodes, almost completely thanks to Paul Rudd. He put in a typically Rudd-tastic performance as the drunk, washed-up rock musician, Desmond Fellows. It was fun just watching him snark his way through the world of Veronica Mars.

With Vinnie Van Lowe entering the sheriff’s race, I’m really hoping for some good fireworks between him and Keith in these last few installments.

“I Know What You’ll Do Next Summer”

Wow … Dick is actually human. Who knew? I thought the show did a great job with showing a bit of his human side in this episode when he met up with his fugitive father, without going too far. To see Dick completely break down would have been a betrayal to the character, but the writers didn’t go too far.

The case of the week was a little dull, with an African student being hunted down by his long lost father. There was also a ton of relationship stuff, with everyone going all googly because the summer break is coming and they’ll be separating. I was so happy to see that Veronica was super-excited about her internship with the FBI, not even picking up on Piz’s disappointment that they would be apart. Seriously, dude, you’re in college, don’t be an idiot. One summer away isn’t going to ruin your life.

It was also nice to see Leo back on the show, and given somewhat of a happy ending, being made a deputy again. We’ll see if anyone else gets a happy ending.

Related posts

• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – So long, V
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – the case is solved and… Logan babysits?
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – Monkeys, Hookers, and RU-485

Was it just me, or did this week seem a little off? Despite being funny, Psych put me to sleep (literally, not figuratively) with its not-so-interesting plot. Leverage was hilarious, but didn’t offer nearly as many good one-liners as it normally does. And depressingly, Bob’s Veronica Mars Virgin Diary is quickly coming to a close (which, I’ve got to warn you, means more Buffy quotes for everyone — I love shows that bring the wit). Alas, however, the Fall Season quickly approaches.

Psych

“Question: Where are all of the girls in the Catholic school-girl uniforms, Gus?!” — Shawn
“There’s one right over there.” — Gus
“No, that is a male bagpiper.” — Shawn

“Was she a fan of the game Grand Theft Auto? I know when I play it I become raving mad, foaming at the mouth.” — Shawn
“I had to taser him once.” — Gus
“Which I still feel was excessive.” — Shawn

“Carson D has Simon Baker on tonight. That’s can’t miss, OK, so I’m going to go. You guys keep exercising during the exorcism.” — Shawn

“Do you think she has PTSD?” — Lucy’s Mother
“I’m afraid this is more serious than a menstrual disorder.” — Shawn

“Oh, let me guess … relationship trouble.” — Henry
“Yeah, I hate it when we fight.” — Shawn
“I’m sure she feels the same way.” — Henry
“I’m not talking about Abigail, I’m talking about Gus.” — Shawn
“So was I.” — Henry

Mad Men

“Let’s assume we can get a girl to match Ann-Margret’s ability to be 25 and act 14.” — Peggy, on an ad to match the opening of Bye Bye Birdie

Leverage

“Katherine and I have known each other forever. Almost two years.” — Parker, at Sophie’s fake funeral

“Stop it….” — Sophie
“It’s like you’re haunting us.” — Parker
“Parker, I’m not really dead.  I’m not dead!” — Sophie

True Blood

“Jesus and I agreed to see other people, but that doesn’t mean we don’t still talk from time to time.” — Lafayette

“If only Miss Jeanette was still alive.” — Lettie Mae
“She don’t need no backwoods witch. She needs Thorazine and a padded cell.” — Lafayette

“Lord, smite me … Lord, smite me …  LORD, SMITE ME!!” — Sam

“You’ve been real good to this town, even if you are a sometime nudist.” — Andy

Selections from the Virgin Diaries

Battlestar Galactica

“There’s this one song that he taught me, it made me feel happy and sad all at the same time.” — Starbuck
“The best ones do.” — Slick

Veronica Mars

“Who wants out of jail?” — Cliff
“I do! I do!” — Veronica  (A bit that works better with Kristen Bell’s funny voice)

“Honey … why is there a pistol in the freezer?” — Keith
“Because there’s this guy, see?… And I want to put him on ice. Because revenge is a dish best served cold. Because I want to commit murder in the 28th degree?” — Veronica
“Stop.” — Keith

“What?” — Wallace, after worrying about Veronica seeing Parker and Logan together
“I’m just trying to figure out which Gilmore Girl you are.” — Veronica

House, M.D.

“Why’d you put me in charge of the department if you think I can’t handle it?” — Foreman
“Because it’s temporary, and because I was ordered to.” — Cuddy

“Do you know your phone is dead? Do you ever recharge the batteries?” — Wilson
“They recharge? I just keep buying new phones.” — House

“What does House say?” — Cameron
“The person you are trying to reach is out of the area or has turned off their phone.” — Foreman

“Cat fight and cataplexy on the cat walk.  Cool!” — House

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

“My. She’s cheeky, isn’t she? — Wesley, about Cordelia
“Uh, first word: jail; second word: bait.” — Faith

“And you say this demon wanted cash? That’s very unusual.” — Wesley
“Demons after money. Whatever happened to the still beating heart of a virgin? No one has any standards anymore.” — Giles

“I know this. It’s down by the bus station. Not the nicest part of town.” — Buffy
“Again. See, no standards. I mean, any self-respecting demon should be living in a pit of filth or a nice crypt.” — Giles

Related posts

• Quotation Marks – Butt cheeks, Buffy’s Graduation, and a yunkie
• Quotation Marks – Baiting, Treking, and Abstinence
• Quotation Marks – Leverage gets the Midwest wrong

(Season 3, Episodes 13-15)

Mystery two of the season has been wrapped up and I have to say that it didn’t deliver as well as the first mystery. It seemed like Keith did most of the heavy lifting with this case, while Veronica was relegated to doing silly college cases and mooning over Logan. The stakes seemed a lot higher in the rape story line and things were a whole lot more personal.

All comparisons aside, I wasn’t disappointed with how things turned out; the whole murder mystery was still very well done and complex, with all the twists and turns that I’ve come to expect from Veronica Mars.

“Postgame Mortem”

So… I’ve been trying to imagine a group of professional television writers, sitting in a room, trying to break stories for this episode. Who suggested that Logan babysit for a little girl? Forget that, who thought it was a good idea? I thought this whole plot was just laughable. It’s almost as if they realized that Logan sleeping with Madison made him look much worse than they had intended. How can we make Logan a sympathetic character again? Make him bond with a cute, precocious little girl! Clearly, it didn’t work for me.

As for the rest of the episode, the dead coach plot seemed like it was an afterthought in this episode and the next. With so much “relationship” stuff happening, as well as the investigation into the Dean’s murder heating up, this episode was almost too full. I suppose that’s why the coach’s death case leaked into the next episode….

“Mars, Bars”

Holy crap! Richard Grieco killed Don Lamb! I did not see that twist coming and to be honest, I was pretty disappointed with it. Lamb was a great character and I don’t know how I feel yet about Keith being suddenly (not to mention inexplicably) shoved back into his sheriff’s outfit. Wouldn’t there be other people in line before him?

Veronica in jail was really amusing, and it seems like she’s been extra snarky all season. Not that I’m complaining, I’ve actually been enjoying it. Again, though, the murder of the coach played second fiddle and seemed like an afterthought here, even as it wrapped up. It was definitely an interesting enough story that it could have been the star of any of these episodes.

“Papa’s Cabin”

So I was right about Tim, but I have to admit that I thought I was wrong after making my pick so early. I didn’t see the twist coming; the writers did an excellent job in making (the dearly departed) Mindy and Landry look guilty. Watching Veronica take down Tim in the middle of class was a great moment though; I can’t take anything away from that.

I also really enjoyed the episode leading up to that moment, with Veronica and Tim working together. They made an amusing team, with Veronica having all the street knowledge that Tim lacked. Oh well, guess we won’t be seeing that again.

Related posts

• Diary of a Veronica Mars Virgin – A Just Shoot Me reunion
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – So long, V
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – Paul Rudd tears it up

(Season 3, Episodes 10-12)

The serial rapist story line was wrapped up in the last block of episodes of Veronica Mars, and the investigation into the death of the Dean is taking the forefront. Well, it’s at least taking the back burner. I’ve been a little disappointed so far because each of the first nine episodes seemed pretty tight, and each seemed pertinent to the rapist plot. These three episodes seemed much more interested in the case-of-the-week plot than O’Dell’s murder. Hopefully things will turn around.

“Show Me the Monkey”

Veronica searches for a monkey. Could this have been any more of a filler episode? At least it featured a lot of Mac. Her character is grievously underused on this show.

Alright, so I know that the Dean was only killed one episode ago, but I feel like I know who killed him already. It has to be Tim, Professor Landry’s TA, right? Unless the reference to Veronica’s paper is just a red herring, I have to think that it’s Tim, because he and Landry would have been the only people to have read her paper. Landry is far too obvious a choice, and with his history of carrying on with lots of women, I would think he’d be fine with just moving on. It has to be Tim. I’m hoping there is going to be a little more to it than that.

“Poughkeepsie, Tramps, and Thieves”

More Logan and Veronica drama! I’m really hoping that this marks the end of them as a couple. I don’t think I can take any more of this. However, I do realize that the chances of this are low. Oh well.

I’m actually a little surprised that it took until season three for Veronica Mars to tackle the “hooker with a heart of gold” story. The show has covered just about every other cliche up to this point: cults, babies switched at birth, teachers having affairs with students, etc, etc, etc. The show almost always puts a fun and unique spin on things, but I didn’t think they knocked this one out of the park. It was slightly annoying.

“There’s Got to be a Morning After Pill”

So maybe I have things all wrong with my Tim theory. I mean, Veronica broke into his office and hacked into  his computer in this episode, and from the looks of things, Tim is also investigating the death of Dean O’Dell. I find it hard to believe that he would bother to fabricate a file on his locked computer in his locked office just to cover his tracks. Maybe he’s just investigating to make sure that he has indeed gotten away with Veronica’s “perfect murder.”

The rest of this episode was okay, with Veronica helping out Tim’s girlfriend to figure out who slipped her some RU-485. It was a great excuse to work Dick into the plot, and he’s always good for a couple laughs.

Related posts

• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – So long, V
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – Paul Rudd tears it up
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – the case is solved and… Logan babysits?

Project Runway: All-Star Challenge

[You'll have to work with me on this one, but it's easily the quote of the week]

“When I see boobs going all over the place I get dizzy.” — Heidi [not liking that one of the models, who was wearing a really tight t-shirt, wasn't wearing a bra]
“Me too!” — our very own Brett Love watching at home

Mad Men

[Peggy and her secretary Lola, on the new British man in the office]
“He just always stops by concerning the strangest things. Yesterday it was my engagement ring.” — Lola
“Enough, Lola.” — Peggy
“You know there’s something about the way he talks. I could listen to him read the phone book.” — Lola
“Well, when he gets to ‘S’, I need Howard Sullivan at Lever Brothers.” — Peggy

“I’ve flown a few times, but I’ve never actually seen a stewardess that game.” – Sal [on the flirty flight attendant]
“Really?” – Don [he's a pimp]

“It’s like that show Mad Men, but it’s even better!”  — actor Vincent Kartheiser [describing the new season]

Entourage

“What are you doing buddy?” — Ari
“I’m waking you up with my mind.” — Ari’s Son
“Good work! What time is it?” — Ari
“It’s late.” — Ari’s Son
[looking at watch] “Oh shhioooot!” — Ari
“Daddy, you almost said ’shit!” — Ari’s Son

Psych

“I’m sure you’ve heard about what I do, and how cool it is. You’ve seen my hair, which means you’re doubly impressed. But lets not get wrapped up in gushy compliments, I get a little self conscious.” –Shawn

“If this turns into Blazing Saddles, I’m out of here.” — Gus

[Gus Trips]
“Gus…”
“Watch your feet” — Gus
“Watch my feet, I’m leading the way.” — Shawn
Your stride is too long, Shawn.” — Gus
“It’s your ridiculous gait, that’s the problem.” — Shawn
“No, your shoes are too large.” — Gus

“How about I wear the spurs?” — Gus
“How about the Sheriff wears the spurs?” — Shawn
“How about you kiss my blacksmith ass?” — Gus

“Look, Hank, we can fix the buildings … We’ll get some nails.” — Shawn
” .. And Febreze.” — Gus

“Well, Shawn, sometimes people you think are innocent turn out to be guilty and vice-versa. The important thing is, how are you going to help me get Hank’s blood out of my couch?” — Henry

“The only thing I don’t understand is, why would a ghost be mining for gold?” — Shawn

And, selections from the Virgin Diaries

Firefly

“Big stop just to renew your license to Companion. Can I use “Companion” as a verb?” — Wash

“What about cortical electrodes?” — Simon
“Oh! [long pause] We forget ‘em.” — Jayne
“Let’s try that again.” — Simon

“I’ll be in my bunk.” — Jayne [when Inara ... well ... just watch the damn DVDs :)]

“This should do.” — Book
“Preacher, don’t the Bible have some pretty specific things to say about killing?” — Zoe
“Quite specific. It is, however, somewhat fuzzier on the subject of kneecaps.” — Book

Veronica Mars

“This is a bad idea.” — Veronica
“No, it’s not.” — Keith
“You only think it’s not because you came up with it.” — Veronica
“Ergo, how could it be bad? Math, sweetie. Me + idea = good.” — Keith

“When entering a frat house full of accused rapists, the pant suit is a solid wardrobe choice. It’s fashion’s way of saying, “Move along. Nothing to see here.” — Veronica [in voiceover]

“So what would Stan Marsh say in a situation like this? I think we all learned a valuable lesson about faith. You give it to the people you love. But the people who really deserve it are the ones who come through, even when you don’t love them enough.” — Veronica [in voiceover]

“So, not only did Chip get Kojak’d, someone put a Roman numeral on one of those little plastic Easter eggs, and stuck it in his… where-the-sun-don’t-shine place. And you know where that is.” — Dick
“Worst. Easter Egg Hunt. Ever.” — Veronica

“I’m fine. Seriously. I just told the two of you because I thought you should know. I’m not looking for a pity party.” — Veronica
“That’s good, ’cause I always get stuck blowing up the pity balloons.” — Wallace

Battlestar Galactica

“You swore an oath when you put that uniform on. You pledged to defend this ship and her crew.” — Adama
“You swore the same allegiance! What happened to your oath? For seven years, I have done my frakking job and for what? [motions to Tigh] To take orders from a Cylon? To let machines network our ship? No, you… you are not the leader you were when we started. You’re just a sad old man who has let his heart and his affection for a Cylon cloud his judgment.” — Gaeta
“I want you all to understand this! If you do this, there will be no forgiveness. No amnesty. This boy died honoring his uniform. You, you’ll die with nothing.” — Adama

“The Admiral is charged with treason, desertion, giving aid and comfort to the enemy, and gross dereliction of duty. The punishment for these crimes is death by firing squad.” — Zarek
“Well, I’m not a very good shot.” — Romo Lampkin

Related posts

• Quotations Marks – Psych is back. Back again. Psych is back. Tell your friends.
• Quotation Marks – Exorcisms, Ann Margret, and … a Gilmore Girl?
• Quotation Marks – Butt cheeks, Buffy’s Graduation, and a yunkie

(Season 3, Episodes 8-9)

So… what’s wrong with me? Nine episodes through the infamous season three of Veronica Mars, and I think I’m enjoying it more than season one or two. In this group of episodes, the serial rapist storyline was wrapped up, and I think “Spit & Eggs” was one of the better episodes of the entire series. Does it get a whole lot worse after this? Am I missing something?

I sort of liked the mini-arc format. Every one of the nine episodes early in the season felt important and pertinent to the rape mystery. There were no filler episodes, all the mysteries seemed to focus on characters that we care about instead of random walk-ins at Mars Investigation. Overall, I think I like season three the most. I have a bunch more episodes to go, though, so I can’t say if that feeling will last.

“Lord of the Pi’s”

It was kind of fun seeing Patty Hearst guest star as… well, essentially herself. Heck, even the fake school is named after her. It was definitely a nice touch having her on the show. This ended up being an intriguing episode too, with quite the crazy mystery.

There was a ton of Veronica and Logan angst in this episode. I thought for sure that they were going to break up (and that’s not the first time I’ve thought that this season), but they decided to “go easier on each other.” This relationship is doomed, and I’m pretty much okay with that at this point. Logan has fallen into whiny and annoying territory. I’m really sick of seeing the wide-eyed, mouth hanging open look. What is the deal with that? Is he trying to catch bugs?

The other big revelation in this episode was the discovery that the Lilith House girls faked Claire’s rape to get more attention focused on the issue. That’s pretty extreme.

“Spit & Eggs”

Like I said in the open, I thought this was one of the best episodes of the whole series. It definitely felt like a season finale with the rapist story line wrapping up, but I guess that was the point. There was definitely a lot of tension, and it set up the next mystery of the season (rest of the season?).

I really enjoyed how everything played out in this episode. I thought Mercer made a great villain, but I just knew that Moe was going to end up being an accomplice as soon as he started to help Veronica. Man, if I were her I wouldn’t ever drink anything I didn’t pour myself, regardless of where I was and who I was with. What is it? Three times that she’s been slipped GHB now? Poor Veronica. Logan dumped her too, that’s got to hurt. Seeing him get himself thrown in jail just to wail on Mercer though was great to see. He obviously still cares for Veronica a lot.

I was sad to see the Dean killed. He was a great character, and had really good chemistry with Veronica. I hope that the mystery of his death will be as compelling as the rapist mystery was….

Related posts

• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – So long, V
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – Paul Rudd tears it up
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – the case is solved and… Logan babysits?

(Season 3, Episodes 4-7)

Just Shoot Me wasn’t exactly the most popular sitcom in the history of television, but I was a fan. I thought it was a funny show with a great cast, so I love that Laura San Giacomo has been guesting on the show as a potential love interest for Keith, in this block of episodes.

I’m continuing to enjoy season three, and haven’t noticed a real drop-off in quality so far. We’ll have to see if that continues as I make may way toward the end of the series.

“Charlie Don’t Surf”

This was a Logan heavy episode, focusing on his discovery of a long lost half brother. The shadow of Aaron remains on this show, even if the man himself does not. I liked the twist that the guy Logan thought was his brother turned out to be a journalist looking to get some scoop on Aaron Echolls’ son. Weepy, mopey Logan, however, never really excites me.

I have to give the writers credit — they have deftly given Veronica the chip back on her shoulder in a very short time. This serial rapist story line has given her the opportunity to alienate many, many people on campus. Frankly, that’s the way I like it.

“President Evil”

How great was the beginning of this episode, with Veronica sticking her foot in her mouth in front of the Dean, making fun of the expensive car outside of Mars Investigation, not aware of who the owner was? I enjoyed it. I’m continuing to really enjoy Ed Begley Jr. as the Dean, and I’m glad that we’ve been seeing a lot of him. Hopefully that will continue.

Overall, this was a decent episode. I enjoyed both of the plot lines this week: Veronica trying to figure out who robbed the illegal on-campus casino, and Keith trying to help the Dean and his dying stepson. Oh, yes, and there was a Richard Grieco appearance! If I didn’t know better, I would accuse him of being the serial rapist. He fits the VM profile: slightly washed up star of the 80s.

“Hi, Infidelity”

This episode was a little heavy on the new characters: Piz and Parker. I’m still not sure what I think of either of them. Right now, I like Parker better than Piz, who seems to be a little boring, and I’m not digging his crush on Veronica. Does he really end up as competition for Logan?

Much to my surprise, Logan and Veronica as a couple haven’t bugged me that much so far. There’s been enough drama in the relationship, and Logan hasn’t been all googley-eyed with her. After he proved again that he really is a jerk in this episode (by admitting to burning down a motel accidentally and then fleeing the scene), I’m wondering what the future has in store for him and Veronica as a couple.

“Of Vice and Men”

If Keith is the world’s best father, does that make Veronica the world’s worst daughter? Seriously, I know that what Keith and Harmony were doing was pretty wrong, but at this point hasn’t Veronica thwarted every one of Keith’s attempts at love? She freaked out when Keith was seeing Rebecca the guidance counselor, breaking them up, and then she ended up getting Wallace’s mom fired from her job. I know that she and Keith did get back together, but I think Veronica has been unfair to her father. After all, she is not exactly the beacon of morality herself — I seem to recall her stealing people’s medical records, which I still think crossed a line.

I can’t believe that Veronica actually might turn down the dream internship at the FBI, just because she knows that her professor is sleeping with the Dean’s wife. Sometimes a little selfishness is okay, and I’m hoping that Landry’s frank speech at the end of the episode will make her change her mind.

I was happy with the end of this episode. It may have taken almost getting raped again after being attacked by the serial rapist, but she realized that her men were there for her when it counted. I hope that was enough to put things right between Veronica and Logan and Keith.

Related posts

• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – the case is solved and… Logan babysits?
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – They changed the theme song?!?
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – So long, V

Like many of the other shows that I’ve discussed in this series (Buffy and Desperate Housewives come to mind), Veronica Mars focused on one over-arcing mystery in each of the first two seasons. I think I’ve beaten to death the pluses and minuses with this model, so I won’t go into too much depth. It is worth mentioning, however, that in writing my virgin diary on the show, it seems like most viewers think that season one was far superior to season two. Even though I wasn’t super psyched about how season two ended, I don’t think it was drastically worse than the first season.

Veronica Mars did something that I think is pretty unique. It was able to continue to carry over some of the action from each mystery into the next season. Aaron was caught at the end of the first season, but he didn’t disappear from the show completely. Instead, he made several appearances, including his trial.

The mystery of Veronica’s rape was also carried over into the second season. Debbie was a big fan of this plot twist, as she mentioned in the comments of my last season two diary entry. I thought it was a clever turn for the show, and the writers showed that they weren’t just locked into wrapping everything up into a neat little package at the end of a season.

Now I’m part-way through the third season, and some previous story elements are still working their way into the story. Things remain open-ended with the Fitzpatrick clan. I’m not sure if their story line will ever wrap up, but by overlapping some of these plot lines, it really makes an effective overall narrative without frustrating the audience with a lack of answers.

Related posts

• What is it about Warehouse 13?
• Quotation Marks – Butt cheeks, Buffy’s Graduation, and a yunkie
• The trouble with MacGuffins – How I Met Your Mother and the unnecessary MacGuffin

How can you not be stoked that USA’s Psych is back? I was so excited, I completely forgot one of the most quotable shows on television last week! Just because I love you guys, I mixed in last week’s quotes in with this.

What were your favorite quotes this week? Mine was from our very own Bob Degon, announcing some suspect news to the CliqueClack team:

“They’re remaking BSG… again… Oy.”

Psych

“Note to self: be rich one day.” — Shawn

“He’s allergic to rich, white people.” — Shawn, addressing Gus’ coughing to family of wealthy murder victim

“I hope you have a plan of how we’re gonna find this crashed plane. And I hope that plan doesn’t end up having us being eaten by a bear.” — Gus
“Don’t worry Gus. I have a secret weapon” — Shawn
“A larger bear-eating bear?” — Gus

“Here’s the thing, Robert: I am a psychic.” — Shawn
“We work for the Santa Barbara Police Department. We’ve solved over forty-seven cases. I’m also a pharmaceutical rep, if that means anything to you.” — Gus
“You’ve seen The Mentalist, right?” — Shawn
“Yes.” — Robert
“It’s like that.” — Shawn
“Except that guy’s a fake.” — Gus
“Right. If I were a fake psychic, it would be eerily similar.” — Shawn
“Exactly the same.” — Gus
“A virtual carbon copy.” — Shawn

“You guys believe in Karma, don’t you?” — Victim’s Daughter
“Yes we do, but only because we are Karma Chameleons.” — Shawn
“We come and go.” — Gus

“He then confessed to me that his billion-dollar hedge fund was a giant ponzi scheme.” — Burned investor
“Stop right there. I simply refuse to believe that Henry Winkler had anything to do with this.” — Shawn

Weeds

“Drop the pants; dunk the dean nuts.” — Doug to Dean, getting back at him for slamming his dick in a desk drawer last week

“I was gonna be a drug kingpin! I was gonna be Tony Montana! I got nothin’.” — Dean to Doug

“Stealing drugs from a drug lord. Bold. Hot.” — Andy to Audra, upon finding her stealing medical supplies from Esteban

“Doctor Teeth.” — Andy, claiming that he does indeed know some jazz musicians
“He’s a Muppet.” — Audra
“He’s a JAZZ Muppet.” — Andy

True Blood

“Spill no blood on your way out.” — Godric basically confirming we’ve (or at the least, most certainly I) got no clue what’s going on

“I gave you everything for a lie.  You’re worse than Judas.” — Sarah
“Why, what did he do to you?” — Jason

“He’s your maker, isn’t he?” — Sookie
“Don’t use words you don’t understand.” — Eric
“You have a lot of love for him.” — Sookie
“Don’t use words I don’t understand.” — Eric

“I don’t know what you heard, but those were screams of pleasure!” — Hoyt

“I reckon I’ve already been to heaven … inside your wife!” — Jason

“I’m actually older than your Jesus. I wish I could have known him, but I missed it.” — Godric

“They say I sodomized a pine tree. Must be true … My pecker’s got all kinds of scratches on it.” — Mike Spencer

“I’m a cadet with the Light of Day Institute. I’m strapped.” — Jason

Better off Ted

“It’s like looking into some bizarre alternate universe where I can drive a bull and wear tall shoes with throwing stars attached to them.” — Phil

Leverage

“Pack your bags everyone, we’re going to D.C. to make news.” — Sophie
[Pause]
“That’s when you wanna….” — Nate
“Oh, that right there, yeah.  Pack your bags everyone, we’re going to D.C. to make news! [walks away]” — Sophie
“…she’s walking into the closet.” — Nate

“Do I sound that creepy when I….?” — Nate
“Hell. Yes.” — Eliot

“These conspiracies aren’t real, right?” — Parker
“What do you mean?” — Eliot
“Like that one over there that says that all the major wars of the past fifty years are decided by members of The Council.” — Parker
“I’m not cleared to discuss that with you.” — Eliot
“Well you’re not a member of The Council, are you? Eliot? Eliot? Is he?” — Parker

“Loch Ness monster.” — Parker
“Loch Ness submarine.” — Haridson
“No!” — Parker
“Waters are cold and deep, it’s a perfect place for testing.” — Eliot
“Area 51.” — Parker
“True.” — Nate
“No, she said Area 51. 51.” — Hardison
“I’m sorry, false. It’s Area 52.” — Eliot
“Been there.” — Hardison
“Yup.” — Nate

The Closer

“I’m having a hard time getting this guy out of your box … That didn’t sound right.” — Dr. Terence to Brenda

Make It or Break It

“I feel like we’re trapped in a Coldplay song … which is its own level in Dante’s Hell.” — Not-Razor (Damon) to Emily

And Selections from the Virgin Diaries

Firefly

[Kaylee has expressed her belief that Simon doesn't swear]
“I swear… when it’s appropriate.” — Simon
“Simon, the whole point of swearing is that it ain’t appropriate.” — Kaylee

“[singing] The hero of Canton, the man they call ‘me’. [speaking] Eggs! The living legend needs eggs!” — Jayne

[upon seeing Serenity for the first time]
“Ship like this, be with you till the day you die.” — Malcom
“Because it’s a death trap.” — Zoe

Battlestar Galactica

“Athena tells me the upgrades should… triple the Fleet’s jump capacity.” — Helo
“Absolutely. And that’s conservative. Their technology-our technology, is way ahead of ours. Yours.” — the Chief
“Maybe you’d like a chart to keep it all straight?” — Tigh

“I don’t know anything about being a father.” — Hot Dog
“It sucks… except the parts that don’t.” — the Chief

Veronica Mars

“If college is a boy buffet, she’s got two full plates and a purse full of boys wrapped in napkin. Look at her … she’s like boynip.” — Mac about Parker

“The ’70s had the Hustle. The ’80s, the moonwalk. We have the faux-lesbian dance.” — Veronica, in a quote that’s sure to make Brett a happy man

House, MD

“[to Foreman] Not because you think I’m right. Its because you’re taking the safe route. You’re a wuss….  Don’t worry, you’re secret is safe with me [walks out the door]. Hey Wilson, guess what Foreman just did?!?” — House

“At the Boy who Cried Wolf, the wolf really does come.  And he eats the sheep, and the boy, and the parents….” — House
“He doesn’t eat the parents.” — Chase
“He does when I tell it.” — House

Related posts

• Quotations Marks – Eliot knocks Hardison, Weeds knocks hipocrisy, and FX showrunners knock NBC
• Quotation Marks – Brett really DOES watch Project Runway
• Team Leverage: Shining moments in the finale

(Season 3, Episodes 1-3)

Well, I’ve done it. I’ve started the much-maligned third (and final) season of Veronica Mars. So far nothing has really offended me that much. Instead, it pretty much still feels like Veronica Mars, with one notable exception…

Why the hell did the producers feel it was necessary to mess with the theme song? I hate when show do this, and in this case it particularly bothered me, as I really loved the VM theme. In fact, I liked it so much, I went out and bought two albums by the Dandy Warhols. I suppose it’s not the end of the world, but the open title sequence could have been changed without taking the fun tune and turning it into some boring, run of the mill opener.

“Welcome Wagon”

Did I miss something at the end of last season? Did we ever find out about the Kane scholarship? I thought that Veronica was aiming to go to Stanford, and didn’t want to go to Hearst. Now, as the season opens she’s at Hearst and there’s no explanation?

As I was watching this episode I kept thinking how familiar Parker looked. I’m usually good at placing faces, but I had to head over to IMDb to find out that Julie Gonzalo was Maggie Decker on Eli Stone. She looks completely different with long blonde hair! Of course, the fact that she is playing a ditzy college freshman instead of a smart young lawyer didn’t help either.

This episode played out like just about any other case-of-the-week episode, with Veronica trying to find Piz’s stuff after it’s stolen. Aside from that, there was the death of Kendall and Keith’s adventure in the desert. I suppose it would have been too much to ask to get some more Charisma Carpenter in season three, but did the writers have to kill her off?

“My Big Fat Greek Rush Week”

I’m having a little trouble getting on board with this serial rape story line. If this sort of thing were happening in real life, the entire Greek system would be shut down in a second. The fact that there are still frats and sororities around, having big parties, whether they are supposed to or not, is a little hard for me to swallow.

I did enjoy this episode though, with Veronica going undercover in a sorority during rush week, trying to figure out if the group was involved with the rapes on campus. I really enjoyed watching Veronica fake getting drunker and drunker at the party until she ended up overplaying her hand and got sent home.

The B plot in this episode, with Wallace and Logan on separate sides of a prisoner/interrogator faux torture experiment was weak. It was a good opportunity for Logan to be a snarky wise ass, but otherwise it was pretty useless.

“Wichita Linebacker”

Hey, a Weevil sighting! I wish the writers would find a way to work all the characters into each episode. There aren’t that many on the show, but it seems like they only ever have four or five of the main players in each episode. I wonder if this had something to do with the budget of the show during this final season. I digress, but I enjoyed seeing Weevil working with Keith. I think that would have been a fun partnership this year, but alas. It was not meant to be.

This episode was pretty standard VM fun. I am a little excited that Ed Begley Jr is playing the Dean, because, really, my life just doesn’t have enough Ed Begley Jr in it. I hope that there is as much back and forth between Veronica and the Dean as there was between Veronica and principal Clemmons.

Related posts

• Diary of a Veronica Mars Virgin – A Just Shoot Me reunion
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – So long, V
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – Paul Rudd tears it up

(Season 2, Episodes 20-22)

Season two is over, and it would seem that quite a few people think I’ve seen all the Veronica Mars that’s worth seeing. I’m too curious, though, so I’ll be giving season three a chance.

Overall, I didn’t think that season two was quite as tight as season one. The ending was pretty good, but I questioned some of the motivations of the characters (more on that later). And really … do we need these silly, nearly pointless cliffhangers at the end of each season? The “who’s behind the door” cliffhanger from season one was just dumb, and this season’s seems to be as well….

“Look Who’s Stalking”

It was nice to see Leo back, even if it was just for Veronica to use him again. Poor guy. This was a fun episode though, heavy on Gia, which is always fun. I’m still floored at how different this character is compared with Krysten Ritter’s character on Breaking Bad.

Well, it looks like maybe that rape plotline is going to make a comeback, with Veronica finding out that she has chlamydia. I’m surprised that she didn’t immediately think of that, instead pointing the finger at Duncan and the possibility that he was being promiscuous. She should know better; he was way too boring to woo that many women. Way too boring.

There was also a whole lot of Logan/Veronica angst in this episode, which was enjoyable. Give me some weepy tension over smoochy-face any day.

“Happy Go Lucky”

Ah, I get it. The semi washed-up actor from the ’80s is always the bad guy on this show. Last year it was Harry Hamlin, and this season it was Steve Guttenberg, as Woody Goodman. Who’s going to show up in season three? Rutger Hauer? Mark Hamill? Honestly, I think they would both make fun villains.

Back on point, though: Woody is quite the creep, isn’t he? He gets caught with an unconscious hooker and blames it on Keith, and on top of that, he’s a child molester. I had a slight feeling about this, back when he was showing some interest in Logan.

Aaron’s murder trial was almost laughable. Rob Thomas has shown that he excels at the high school aspect of this show, but between this episode and “One Angry Veronica,” he should stay away from the courtroom. I was able to get past it though, as the rest of the episode was good.

“Not Pictured”

With all of Beaver’s weird sex issues, it didn’t take a whole lot to connect the dots to Woody. I just didn’t buy Beaver as the big evil mastermind that he revealed himself to be in this episode. All through the season, he was established as “the nice guy.” Are we supposed to believe that it was all an act? Would he really be damaged enough to kill all those people? It didn’t work for me as well as season one did. Aaron made a great villain because we got to see him unravel over the course of the season — proving to be a real violent nutcase by the end of the season — but it was still surprising (at least to me) that he was the killer.

Overall, I did enjoy the end of the season though, even if Beaver wouldn’t have been my first choice for villain. Once again, the rape storyline seemed to be an aside in this episode, just a couple lines exchanged between Veronica and Cassidy. I know, it’s my same old complaint, but it still bothers me. Oh, and Duncan putting a hit on Aaron from hiding? It was a tad over the top for me.

So it’s on to season three, and to the answer to the cliffhanger: what does Kendall have up her sleeve for Keith?

Related posts

• Diary of a Veronica Mars Virgin – Season two heats up
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – Adultery, cults, babies switched at birth, and secret societies
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – Still not hooked

Leverage

“OK, so what do we do now?” – Parker
“Well, I just sent Eddie to the hospital … so lets go steal us a hospital.” – Nate

“If I mention Star Trek One, Three, or Five, then everything’s okay, because the odd ones sucked. But if I mention Two, Four, or Six … What do you do?” – Hardison to Eliot, explaining his “code”
[later in the episode]
[over the intercom] “Would Dr. Ralph O’Conn please report to surgery? Dr. Ralph O’Conn, report to surgery! Ralph O’Conn!” – Hardison warning Eliot of the hit man

True Blood

“I’m so happy I could cry, but I don’t wanna, because it’s really gross when I do.” – Jessica to Hoyt, proving she’s the cutest vampire on TV

“Jason Stackhouse, abstinent.” – Jason
“Sounds good, doesn’t it?” – Luke
“Not really.” – Jason

“In person, she looks like vanilla pudding.” – Sookie, accurately describing Sarah Newlin

“If you don’t go out back right now and take off all your clothes, I will fire you.” – Sam to Daphne, before she turned out an agent of Maryann’s

“But all of them put together ain’t half as bad as if you do it to a vampire. Or to a dude. Or to a vampire dude. That’s like the creme de la creme of sins. There’s no repentance for that. Straight to hell, baby.” – Luke to Jason

In Plain Sight

“I won’t be baited into this conversation.” – Marshall
“I’m not baiting, I’m amusing. The verb, not the adjective.” – Mary
“Thanks for clearing that up. Either way, I’m not giving you the name of the first girl I had sex with.” – Marshall
“Why…? Is it because you’re a virgin?” – Mary
“No, its because you’ll track her down, call her up, and make her tell you all about it.” – Marshall
“So? I told you mine!” – Mary
“Neil Armstrong was not your first.” – Marshall
“Technically no, but who can ever remember that other guy’s name?” – Mary

Hung

“How do you keep from shooting yourself?” – Jessica to Ray, upon seeing his burned shell of a home

“If you ever want to pick out an outfit to match that stick up your ass, give me a call.” – Lenore, handing Jessica her business card in the beauty parlor

“I’ve been a jock, student leader, professional ballplayer, educator … is this really the material from which male prostitutes are made?” – Ray

Selections from the Virgin Diaries

Veronica Mars

“Did you watch House of Wax again? You know that Hilton girl gives you nightmares.” – Keith to Veronica

“Remind me: why did we break up?” – Veronica
“Well, you thought the other guy had greener grass. Or was it something about me being too much man? No, wait. It was you — you were too much man.” – Logan

“You here to confess? Is that your tail I see between your legs?” – Veronica
“No. But I can see how you might get confused.” – Weevil

House

“You met me at a strip club.” – House
“You were the worst two dollars I ever spent.” – Stacy

“You know how they say, ‘you can’t live without love?’ Well, oxygen is even more important.” – House

“I took an oath to do no harm.” – Cameron
“Yeah, well, it’s not like they made you sign it, or anything.” – House

“Are you being intentionally dense?” – Cuddy
[sarcastically] “Huh?” – House

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

“Well, we try not to get killed. That’s part of our whole mission statement: ‘Don’t get killed.’” – Willow

“So, its 118 degrees, and I’m sleeping without a stitch on, when I hear a screaming outside. So I go out stark nude, and a church bus and these three Vamps are feeding on half the Baptists in South Boston. I took out the three Vamps, and this preacher comes up and starts hugging me like there’s no tomorrow. Then the cops pull up and arrest us both.” – Faith
“Wow. They should film that story and show it every Christmas.” – Xander

“Angel was cured.” – Buffy
“I’m sorry?” – Giles
“When I killed him, Angel was cured. [to Willow] Your spell worked at the last minute, Will. I was about to take him out, and, um, something went through him, and he was Angel again. He-he didn’t remember anything that he’d done. He just held me. Um, but i-it was, it was too late, and I, I had to. So I-I told him that I loved him, I kissed him, and I killed him.” – Buffy

Related posts

• Quotation Marks – Butt cheeks, Buffy’s Graduation, and a yunkie
• Quotation Marks – Exorcisms, Ann Margret, and … a Gilmore Girl?
• Quotations Marks – Psych is back. Back again. Psych is back. Tell your friends.

(Season 2, Episodes 17-19)

I’m heading into the final handful of episodes of the second season of Veronica Mars and things are beginning to come together. This season has certainly been a lot murkier than the first, but I’m still enjoying it.

Season one was really tight, whereas this second one seems to be more sprawling. There are just so many things going on: PCH vs the Fitzpatricks, the bus crash, the new mayor, Kendall and the Casablancas family, the murder of Felix, and Terrance Cook. That’s quite a list, and I didn’t even include the digression of Duncan and his love child (insert eye roll here).

“Plan B”

Nothing to complain about with this installment. I enjoyed this episode and it focused completely on the big mysteries of the season, most notably the murder of Felix. It was also heavy on the Weevil, which is always a good thing. Indeed, since Duncan left, the episodes really have been great.

I’m wondering what the story is behind the stalkerish video that was sent to Woody Goodman. It’s clear that Woody is hiding something when he claims to have taken care of the problem all by himself. I’m suspicious about Logan becoming the mayoral aide, too. Woody was awful… handsy with him. Did he get Logan in his office for a reason?

“I Am God”

This was a bit of a creepy episode, focusing on Veronica having nightmares about all the dead kids from the bus crash. The pay off at the end of the episode was a little disappointing, with the big clue ending up a red herring. The message on the back of one of the bus seats (”I AM GOD”) was merely the cover art from a CD.

It was nice to see Paula Marshall back on the show, but she seemed to be nothing more than set dressing. Seriously, she spent the entire episode being talked at by Veronica. It seems like VM wasted a lot of guest star appearances this season.

It was also fun watching Logan and Wallace work together on a science project. Watching that, I realized that those two have barely interacted through two entire seasons of the show. It seems odd, but it set up a fun episode.

“Nevermind the Buttocks”

Well, well, well, I guess Kendall is not who she says she is. Not only that, but she has ties to the Fitzpatrick clan. All the plots of this season seem to be coming together now that I’m close to the end of the season.

Things between the PCHers and the Fitzpatricks came to a head in this episode, with Weevil holding the Fitzpatricks hostage with his list of their top clients. It was great to see Weevil come to the rescue for his old gang, only to turn his back on his former brothers. I can’t blame him, though, they betrayed him.

Related posts

• Diary of a Veronica Mars Virgin – And he seemed like such a nice boy
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – Adultery, cults, babies switched at birth, and secret societies
• Diary of a Veronica Mars virgin – Still not hooked

I know I’ve professed my love for Leverage in the past (and by the past, I meant, you know, this weekend), but I really was taken aback by the way they portrayed Lincoln, NE. The quotes were funny, yes, but having lived in Omaha, its not that backwards. Oh, and for the record, I LOVE chicken fried steak, especially because it’s more of a Southern thing, and I can’t stand pork rinds. Also, this week Brett took a look at the “missing” episode of Dollhouse, and we, of course, dove into the Virgin Diaries.

Eureka

“My T.I.R.D. meter is going wild!” – The Drech-man

Dollhouse (”Epitaph One,” screened at San Diego Comic Con)

“You mean to tell me that the tech that punt-kicked the ass of mankind was originally designed to create more believable hookers?” – Zone

Leverage

“Meat should never be used as an adjective.” – Sophie, to room service person who told her she ordered chicken-fried steak.

“Pork rinds? How do you peel a pig?” – Sophie

True Blood

“You are going to be so sorry when I get an eating disorder.” – Jessica

“Here I am responsible for you and Jessica, and no decisions are mine. I just feel like a….” – Bill
“Human?” – Sookie
“Waitress.” – Bill
“You’re walkin’ in my shoes, and it’s givin you blisters.” – Sookie

Miscellaneous

“It’s about as subtle as getting slapped in the face with a dead, wet fish.” Jim Skelton, describing a watch on ShopNBC

Selections from the Virgin Diaries:

Supernatural

“I’m just wondering … the apocalypse nigh and all, it this really the right time to be having this little domestic drama of ours?” – Bobby

“Correct me if I’m wrong, but you willingly signed up to be the angels’ bitch? What? You prefer sucker?” – Bobby to Dean

“They’re supposed to make you miserable … that’s why they’re family!” – Bobby to Dean

Veronica Mars

“I am so good at this game, bro.” – Dick
“Shooting in a clown’s mouth. Your future’s bright, Dick.” – Logan

“I had the printers forego the phallic framing. Penises can sometimes be distracting” – Veronica

“I’m confused. You’re talking and your clothes are on. I’m starting to think you really came over here to try and sell me real estate.” – Logan to Kendall

House

“He agreed to go on a date with me.” – Cameron
“A date? Date, dinner and a movie, naked and sweaty, date?” – Foreman
“He only committed to the first two.” – Cameron

“Wow. Well, you’ve certainly given me a lot to think about. If only I was as open as you.” – House
“Well….” – Cuddy
“Actually, it was your blouse I was talking to.” – House

Six Feet Under

“No, time flies when you’re pretending to have fun. Time flies when you’re pretending to love Brenda and that baby she wants so much. Time flies when you’re pretending to know what people mean when they say, ‘Love.’ Face it, buddy-boy, there’s two kinds of people in the world: there’s you, and there’s everybody else, and never the twain shall meet.” – Nate Sr.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

“In case the curse does not succeed, this is my lucky stake. I have killed many vampires with it. I call it Mr. Pointy.” – Kendra
“You named your stake?” – Buffy
“Yes….” – Kendra
“Remind me to get you a stuffed animal.” – Buffy

“I wanna torture you. I used to love it, and it’s been a long time. I mean, the last time I tortured somebody, they didn’t even have chainsaws.” – Angelus to Giles

“Bottom line is, even if you see them coming, you’re not ready for the big moments. No one asks for their life to change; not really. But it does. So, what are we, helpless? Puppets? Nah. The big moments are gonna come, you can’t help that. It’s what you do afterwards that counts. That’s when you find out who you are.” – Whistler

Moonlight

“You okay?” – Beth
“Yeah, except I just got hit in the face with the sacred ass paddle.” – Mick
“Karma.” – Beth

Related posts

• Quotations Marks – Keith and Veronica Mars banter like rock stars
• Quotation Marks – Exorcisms, Ann Margret, and … a Gilmore Girl?
• Quotations Marks – The one where we take a break from the reality that was this week

(Season 2, Episodes 13-16)

One of the things that I’ve really grown to appreciate about Veronica Mars is the setting that Rob Thomas created. Neptune is a place where it is almost believable that horrible things happen every week. With the air of class warfare, it really is a place that would be rife with crime and shenanigans. It’s sort of like how the Hellmouth on Buffy explained why there was a new monster every week on that show.

“Ain’t No Magic Mountain High Enough”

I like what the show has done with the Jackie character. It’s amazing what a little humble pie will do. Over the past few episodes, the character has really grown on me as she has become more sympathetic. It was a little sad watching her get dunked time after time in the winter carnival dunk tank, shunned for the alleged acts of her father.

This episode also featured the introduction of Hannah, who over the next few episodes, really annoyed the hell out of me. How cute are Beaver and Mac, though? They make a great couple.

“Versatile Toppings”

I thought this was a decent episode, even though it focused a lot on the case-of-the-week. I’m still not quite sure why, but episodes that take place mainly in the high school hold my interest so much more than those like the next episode, which feature random characters. Even though most of the high school characters are just as random as a person walking into Mars Investigations, I just tend to think they are better episodes.

I’m glad to see that Veronica and Jackie are starting to bond and become friends.

“The Quick and the Wed”

As I hinted at, I thought this episode was a little boring. I just didn’t care about the missing bride-to-be. It was nice to see Charisma Carpenter back, though. It felt like it was a few episodes since Kendall had shown up. Harry Hamlin is always a welcome addition to the show too.

This whole storyline with Logan and Hannah is really annoying. Logan is a great character when he is angry, hates everyone, and has his back up against the wall. When he is mooning over a girl and making puppy dog eyes, I want to reach into my TV and strangle him.

“The Rapes of Graff”

George Michael and Maeby in the same episode? It’s like an Arrested Development dream! It’s funny how huge Michael Cera has become since Juno and Superbad. I think I would be shocked to see him show up on a TV show on The CW these days. He was great as a college tour guide in this episode, though.

The other notable guest star was Aaron Ashmore as Troy, making a return appearance after shipping out in early season one. It was interesting to see him again, but I felt like the writers didn’t do a whole lot with the character. I think there was a chance to make it a really kick-ass episode, and it ending up being just a good episode.

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I was a latecomer to the Veronica Mars craze. Being a writer of television, there was no getting away from how many people were professing their love for this show, including Joss Whedon. Then there was all this talk about the season one finale and the big question: “Who’s at the door: Logan or Duncan?” Well hell, I just had to know what they were talking about.

So, I whipped through the first season of the show before season two began. Right away I was confused: how the hell could this asshole Logan possibly be knocking at Veronica’s door in the finale? No freaking way. And then they went and gradually Blew the Hatch on me.

This is a rare moment when I believe knowing something akin to a spoiler actually worked better for a show. Had I not known that Veronica could possibly be answering the door to Logan Echolls with a smile in the finale, I wouldn’t have been paying much attention to his gradual transformation into someone we actually cared about.

This guy was a total dick to Veronica and anyone she cared about, giving us no reason to want to see any good come to him. Even Logan’s friends are dicks — one of them literally. Then we learned of the abuse from his father and his other family issues. He gradually befriends Weevil, something thought impossible early on. It’s not so much that the transformation of Logan Blew the Hatch for me, it’s how it was perfectly and gradually done in a way to make it believable.

The writers succeeded in creating a hero out of a jerk, and by the time the second season premiere was about to air, I found myself rooting for Logan to be the one at Veronica’s door.

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We start this week with a quote of one of my favorite actors working today….

Neil Patrick Harris on hosting this year’s Emmy ceremony: “I’m looking forward to the challenge of the show — adding my own voice to it, while honoring the nominees and the entire year in television. But which voice to choose? I’m torn between gangsta, foppish Brit, and robot. Really proud of my robot.”

“Better off Ted”

Lawyer: “Can you describe your job?”
Veronica: (pause) “Yes….”
Lawyer: “How would you describe your job?”
Veronica: “Cleverly.”

Veronica trying to convince Linda to pretend to be a drug addict and take the fall for the company
Veronica: “Because you have a disease, Linda. A disease that makes you look weak and dirty, and us compassionate and forgiving. It’s a win-win.”
Linda: “How is that a win for me?”
Veronica: “Shut up, junkie.”

“So You Think You Can Dance?”

“Darlin’, you handled your big woman!” Debbie Allen critiquing Evan and Kayla

“The Closer“

“He did this to eight women and he only got shot once?” – Brenda

Virgin Diaries

“Supernatural”

“You guys don’t walk enough. You’re going to start to get flabby.” – Dean to Castiel, after Uriel flies away

Chuck: “Did you really have to live through the bugs?”
Dean: ”Yes.”
Chuck: “What about the ghost ship?”
Dean: ”Yeah, that too.”
Chuck: “I am so sorry. I mean, horror is one thing, but to be forced to live bad writing….”

“Writing yourself into the story is one thing, but as a prophet? That’s like M. Knight level douchiness.” – Chuck

“House“

“Want to come over tonight, watch old movies and cry?” – Wilson

Cuddy: “In the Senator’s condition, a spleen biopsy could easily cause sepsis and kill him!”
House: “Why do you do this to me? Now, if I kill him I can’t tell the judge I had no idea of the risks involved.”

“Moonlight”

“Mick please, I don’t have the energy to kill everyone that pisses me off…. I have to hire some people” – Josef

“Firefly“

Mal: “You can’t open the book of my life and jump in the middle. Like woman, I am a mystery.”
Inara: [laughing] “Best keep it that way. I withdraw the question.”

“If you take sexual advantage of her, you’re going to burn in a very special level of Hell. A level they reserve for child molesters and people who talk at the theater.” – Shepard Book

“Veronica Mars”

Mrs. Hauser: “Since you all had such a raucous good time with venereal diseases, I’m sure you’ll be thrilled with phase two of Sex Ed. Ladies and gentlemen… [takes animatronic baby out of box] Welcome to Parenthood.”
Veronica: “So that’s where babies come from.”

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(Season 2, Episodes 9-12)

Can it be true? Is Duncan really gone? I have to admit that I did head over to IMDb in search of spoilers. Not real spoilers, but I was happy to see that Teddy Dunn is listed as appearing in “credits only” for the rest of the season. Awesome.

Were there any fans of the Duncan character? I have to assume that Rob Thomas was fond of him, but all the people I have talked to about the show seem to agree that Duncan is a huge bore.

“My Mother, the Fiend”

This was a pretty good episode. I love that at the end, it turned out that Clemmons was playing Veronica the whole time, all in a play to become principal. Aside from that, though, it marked the return of Alyson Hannigan, who is always a welcome addition to the show. I nearly “squeed” myself when she and Charisma Carpenter shared the scene. Awesome.

Veronica playing Cold Case with her mom made for an interesting episode, though I was yelling to myself when she misinterpreted the sign language from the deaf cafeteria worker. “She was a fiend.” I thought it was a little obvious that she would have been saying: “She was a friend.” Oh, well, it didn’t really ruin the recipe for me.

Meg is pregnant? Egads. I suppose I should have seen that coming, but I didn’t.

“One Angry Veronica”

I did not like this episode. First of all, it completely made a mockery of what juries actually do. That is all I will say about that. Other than that, I was not thrilled with the exit that poor Leo got from the sheriff’s office. I think that character deserved a little better than that. Maybe this won’t be the last that we see of him, but if it is, shame on the writers.

I did love the Mars family Christmas. Veronica and her dad really are precious together. I totally agree with Julia, Keith is one of the best TV dads out there. This episode also marked the return on Wallace from his soul searching trip to Chicago. Welcome back, Wallace.

“Donut Run”

Alright, I have to give props to this episode, for more than just sending Duncan to another country. This ep was really well structured and very cleverly done. I love that the episode had us thinking that Veronica had broken up with Duncan and wasn’t helping him at all with the kidnapping of his child. Ah, but Veronica is too clever for us.

Add in a great guest star appearance by Lucy Lawless, and this was a winner. That would have been enough, but we also got Ken Marino as Vinnie Van Lowe, and Lamb being played like a fiddle by Veronica. Beautiful.

“Rashard and Wallace Go to White Castle”

I knew that there was going to be at least a bit of a let down after the last episode. This was still a decent entry though. The case-of-the-week with Wallace trying to clear his name after being fingered as the fall guy for a big shot basketball player from Chicago was fine.

The real fun in this episode came in the continuation of the Logan/Weevil story line that has been so great this season. Things came to a head in this episode, as Weevil’s gang discovered that he was working with Logan even as he finally discovered who killed Felix. Unfortunately for Weevil, his friends weren’t so forgiving, and beat the tar out of him before destroying his bike. I’m really curious to see where these events are going to leave Weevil.

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