Notes From Nancy's Noodle

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The World FactBook 2011, put out by the CIA, is a dream for any trivia lover. All countries are listed, arranged neatly in alphabetical order. Although the information has changed over time, this reflects how the world has experienced a shift in parameter and objective. For example, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics used to be one large country. As it broke up into smaller territories, the FactBook reflected that.

The 2011 version is the first time the data has been made available to the public. Keep in mind the CIA is a covert operations group whose work generally gets reported solely to those who need the knowledge, such as the U.S. Committee on Armed Services (in both the House and the Senate). This makes sense when one considers Congress must give the President authorization to initiate war. Checks and balances are essential for government to work, and something like the FactBook helps people to make certain decisions.

Along with the ability to quickly look up any information on any country, there are also several more helps included. For example, a list of definitions the FactBook commonly used will assist any reader in defining exactly what the authors intend. The list is quite lengthy, but well worth the read.

At the back are conversion charts and other mathematical concepts designed to help aid comprehension of data. Maps are used in showing things such as population, age statistics, or how far HIV is spread in a particular country.

Although quite long, the attention to detail is impressive. Just about any tidbit imaginable has been included for quick and easy reference. For obvious reasons, not every detail is put in. However, what might be left out is probably not necessary for the general public.

The FactBook is a wonderful resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the world he or she lives in. Trivia geeks are going to love it as well.

Article first published as Book Review: The CIA World FactBook 2011 by Central Intelligence Agency on Blogcritics.

Monday, September 20, 2010

Book Review: The Naked Lady Who Stood on Her Head: A Psychiatrist's Stories of His Most Bizarre Cases by Dr. Gary Small and Gigi Vorgan - Blogcritics Books

Book Review: The Naked Lady Who Stood on Her Head: A Psychiatrist's Stories of His Most Bizarre Cases by Dr. Gary Small and Gigi Vorgan - Blogcritics Books

Article first published as Book Review: The Naked Lady Who Stood on Her Head: A Psychiatrist's Stories of His Most Bizarre Cases by Dr. Gary Small and Gigi Vorgan - Blogcritics Books on Blogcritics.

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TV Review: Eureka - "Ill Be Seeing You" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Eureka - "Ill Be Seeing You" - Video - Blogcritics

Article first published as TV Review: Eureka - "Ill Be Seeing You" - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.

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Friday, September 10, 2010

TV Review : White Collar - "Point Blank" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review : White Collar - "Point Blank" - Video - Blogcritics

Article first published as TV Review : White Collar - "Point Blank" - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.

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Wednesday, September 01, 2010

TV Review: White Collar - "Company Man" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "Company Man" - Video - Blogcritics

Article first published as TV Review: White Collar - "Company Man" -Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.

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Sunday, August 29, 2010

TV Review:Eureka - "The Ex Files" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Eureka - "The Ex Files" - Video - Blogcritics

Article first published as TV Review: Eureka - "The Ex Files" - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.

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Monday, August 23, 2010

TV Review: Eureka - "Stoned" - Video - Blogcritics

Allow me to start off by explaining the episode title is not what one might think. Yes, the show has taken a wild turn since several of the main characters took a trip back to 1947 ("Founders Day"). They returned, but found things were not exactly the same as when they left. However, nobody requires a joint in order to cope.

Perhaps the biggest adjustment has been that of Dr. Trevor Grant (James Callis). He works with Albert Einstein to make Eureka into the the town of science gurus it is currently. He hitches a ride into current day 2010, and trouble manages to follow ("A New World"). To explain his presence, Fargo (Neil Grayston) decides Grant will become Charles Grant, science historian. Fargo is now head of Global Dynamics, the place where technology is developed for the Department of Defense. Few have a problem with the title, but Jack Carter (Colin Ferguson) is too busy being sheriff to quibble.

For the other romance part, the triangle played by Ferguson, Callis, and Salli Richardson Whitfield, who is cast as Dr. Allison Blake, is still playing out. Callis has three episodes left on his contract. Will he leave with Richardson Whitfield, or disappear like Nathan Stark ("I Do Over")? Time tells.

Ferguson wisely narrates a recap of the season through clips of past episodes before the episode starts. Wise move, since figuring out what goes in which timeline can be a little tricky. Relationships have changed, jobs are not in the same locations. Both past and present are colliding, and the end result could wind up in disaster.

Science has always played a part in this series, even if storylines are seriously fiction. This week stretches credibility with the fossil setup. I'm okay with the statue bit, but how it works out doesn't sound very likely. Of course, this is also television. Perhaps it shouldn't make sense as a rule.

Joe Morton, who plays Henry, directed "Stoned". The dark tones of Grant having his biggest secret possibly revealed is solid. There is a major twist in the last two minutes. While a pretty good hint is given about which gender is involved, the actual person may be somewhat of a surprise. Considering Callis is under contract for three more episodes, his best work could be yet to come in a deeper, darker plot.

The musical number is fun, although not really the best song to show off one's musical abilities. Just saying...

The return of Jordan Hinson as Zoe, Jack's daughter, is a nice touch. Hinson has had the dubious distinction of growing up onscreen from a brat to a mature young lady. Now, viewers get to see Hinson playing a college student, at Harvard no less. A blossoming relationship between Zoe and Zane (Niall Matter) may be on the horizon. If so, Jo (Erica Cerra) is not willing to stand by and let things happen. After all, she is the one Zane proposed to just before everyone took a trip backwards in time ("Founders Day"). Zane needs to nip things in the bud, and quickly.

Eureka is not typically a show which splits a season like some other cable shows. It runs straight through to its end. More and more surprises are probably on the way.

Article first published as TV Review: Eureka - "Stoned" - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.

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Sunday, August 22, 2010

Book Review: Why Does E=MC2 and Why Should We Care? by Brian Cox and Jeff Forshaw - Books - Blogcritics

Book Review: Why Does E=MC2 and Why Should We Care? by Brian Cox and Jeff Forshaw - Books - Blogcritics

Article first published as Book Review: Why Does E=MC2 and Why Should We Care? by Brian Cox and Jeff Forshaw - Books - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.

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Thursday, August 19, 2010

TV Review: White Collar - "In The Red" - Video - Blogcritics

It's not long before Catherine, the suspected thief, leads the duo down a completely different path. It seems she is trying to adopt a child from overseas, but runs into a legal snafu with the birth mother. At least that's what the attorney, Luke Donovan (John Larroquette, Night Court, Boston Legal), said. He asks for one hundred grand to fix the problem. Alarm bells are quickly raised.

Larroquette is an actor well known for a variety of roles. Those viewers familiar with his work on Night Court will appreciate just how sleazily he plays his character. There is a scene early in the
episode with DeKay which is compelling. The adeptness with which each holds ground without giving way to the other shows how strong these two are as performers.

Depth is added with the element of organized crime. Watching Bomer and Larroquette at the poker table is a visual feast. The look is authentic, but the fascination comes with seeing each actor play with intensity. Both understand how high the stakes are.

Hilarie Burton is back as Sara Ellis, the insurance investigator who is under the distinct impression Neal has stolen a painting. Since the painting has yet to be shown, the question is debatable. However, Sara is even more determined to nail Neal after a package disappears from her apartment. This is not the typical parcel. It's the voice recording, aka "black box," from the plane Kate Moreau died in the midst of an explosion ("Out of the Box").

The contents of the recording are best not revealed here. I will say the mystery deepens a bit. Here's a small hint - another person is involved. Who, exactly? Hard to tell. The sound effects team does a decent job of creating a muffled piece of equipment. A little too well might be the better description. It is quite garbled, to the point of being easily misinterpreted. This being said, the options are open as to John or Jane Doe.

Article first published as TV Review: White Collar - "In The Red" - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.

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TV Review: White Collar - "In The Red" - Page 2 - Video - Blogcritics

Being part of an FBI task force to take down criminals is a risky profession. While there is skill involved, not to mention a serious amount of training, some things can't be known beforehand. Take the case of the missing merchandise. Neal Caffrey (Matt Bomer) should have the easy part. Meet with a woman who has offered to trade expensive jewelry for $200,000. If the items are the ones stolen, strike up a conversation using a specific codeword so the FBI team can make an arrest. After a problem arises with the woman's son in the back seat, both Neal and FBI Agent Peter Burke (Tim DeKay) realize there is more to the story.

It's not long before Catherine, the suspected thief, leads the duo down a completely different path. It seems she is trying to adopt a child from overseas, but runs into a legal snafu with the birth mother. At least that's what the attorney, Luke Donovan (John Larroquette, Night Court, Boston Legal), said. He asks for one hundred grand to fix the problem. Alarm bells are quickly raised.

Larroquette is an actor well known for a variety of roles. Those viewers familiar with his work on Night Court will appreciate just how sleazily he plays his character. There is a scene early in the episode with DeKay which is compelling.
The adeptness with which each holds ground without giving way to the other shows how strong these two are as performers.

Depth is added with the element of organized crime. Watching Bomer and Larroquette at the poker table is a visual feast. The look is authentic, but the fascination comes with seeing each actor play with intensity. Both understand how high the stakes are.

Hilarie Burton is back as Sara Ellis, the insurance investigator who is under the distinct impression Neal has stolen a painting. Since the painting has yet to be shown, the question is debatable. However, Sara is even more determined to nail Neal after a package disappears from her apartment. This is not the typical parcel. It's the voice recording, aka "black box," from the plane Kate Moreau died in the midst of an explosion ("Out of the Box").

The contents of the recording are best not revealed here. I will say the mystery deepens a bit. Here's a small hint - another person is involved. Who, exactly? Hard to tell. The sound effects team does a decent job of creating a muffled piece of equipment. A little too well might be the better description. It is quite garbled, to the point of being easily misinterpreted. This being said, the options are open as to John or Jane Doe.

Article first published as TV Review: White Collar - "In The Red" - Page 2 - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.

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Monday, August 16, 2010

TV Review: Eureka - "Momstrosity" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Eureka - "Momstrosity" - Video - Blogcritics

Article first published as TV Review: Eureka - "Momstrosity" - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.

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Thursday, August 12, 2010

TV Review: White Collar - "Unfinished Business" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "Unfinished Business" - Video - Blogcritics

Article first published as TV Review: White Collar - "Unfinished Business" - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.org.

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Friday, August 06, 2010

PC Game Review: Nancy Drew Trail of the Twister - Gaming - Blogcritics

PC Game Review: Nancy Drew Trail of the Twister - Gaming - Blogcritics

Article first published as PC Game Review: Nancy Drew Trail of the Twister - Gaming - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.org.

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Wednesday, August 04, 2010

TV Review: White Collar - "By the Book" - Video - Blogcritics

Ever since Neal Caffrey (Matt Bomer) decided to earn his living as a con artist, his life has taken a series of twists and turns he probably would not have considered as possibilities. Getting caught by the FBI would be one of them. Good thing Peter Burke (Tim DeKay), one of the top agents, gets to be the guy who catches Neal. Twice, actually. Long time love Kate leaving him, though, is more than Neal's heart is prepared to handle.

At the moment, I do not have too much trouble believing Kate is dead. The plane she is in blows pretty much to kingdom come, and chances of her survival are slim. The bigger question is who would go to such lengths. Revenge? It's a reasonable assumption. The tactic sends Neal a message of just how high the stakes are. Especially if someone close to him is no longer around.

No wonder Neal is willing to help Mozzie (Willie Garson), when Gina (Diane Farr, Numb3rs), whom Mozzie has an affection for, goes missing. This is merely a crush, but the chances of real trouble are a possibility. When they discover Gina's place has been trashed, both realize action has got to be taken. There's only one problem - the issue of asking the FBI for help.

Garson just might be one of the greatest character actors out there. He brings an over the top wit to the show which adds special moments to each episode. Viewers have gotten to see just how complex Mozzie is, which says something about the talent Garson has. For starters, Mozzie is a nickname Neal uses, and even Peter does not know who the bespectacled short dude really is. In fairness, there is perhaps only one thing "Mozzie" could be short for, which doesn't make sense with his lactose intolerance. A certain adjective, though, might work better.

Watching Garson enter the FBI bureau is movie magic. Not only does Mozzie shuffle his feet, indicating his high level of discomfort, the tune "Flight of the Bumblebees" is a brilliant touch. Matt Bomer could have come off a bit more sympathetic, as he appears to blow off Garson's distress. I thought Garson just might faint on the way up to Peter's office, but that would probably have been a bit over the top.

Of course, the episode would not be worthy of White Collar if there was not a chance for an undercover sting. Under ordinary circumstances, the job would fall to Neal with the Feds close behind. Seeing Bomer in the humidor of the cigar bar early on is reminiscent of "Pilot", and DeKay gets to set up the scene for the final showdown later. By the time it happens, the viewer is left on edge as to how things will turn out, which heightens the tension factor.

Elizabeth is almost back. Tiffani Theissen has been absent for several episodes after giving birth earlier this year. However, the scene between her and Peter at lunch reminds folks just how good the chemistry between DeKay and Thiessen is.

For now, the music box storyline is left aside. There will be plenty of time down the road for things to come to fruition. Less than a month of episodes remain before the summer finale, but the series will continue its run come January or so after the fall premieres have had time to air and get cut due to low ratings.

Article first published as TV Review: White Collar - "By the Book" - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.org

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Sunday, August 01, 2010

TV Review: Eureka - "The Story of O2" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Eureka - "The Story of O2" - Video - Blogcritics

Article first published as TV Review: Eureka - "The Story of O2" - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.org.

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Saturday, July 31, 2010

Book Review: Ice Cold: A Rizzoli and Isles Novel by Tess Gerritsen - Books - Blogcritics

Book Review: Ice Cold: A Rizzoli and Isles Novel by Tess Gerritsen - Books - Blogcritics

Aricle first published as Book Review: Ice Cold: A Rizzoli and Isles Novel by Tess Gerritsen - Books - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.org.

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Thursday, July 29, 2010

TV Review: White Collar - "Copycat Caffrey" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "Copycat Caffrey" - Video - Blogcritics

Article first published as TV Review: White Collar - "Copycat Caffrey" - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.org.

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Tuesday, July 27, 2010

TV Review: Eureka - "All the Rage" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Eureka - "All the Rage" - Video - Blogcritics

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Article first published as TV Review: Eureka - "All the Rage" - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.org.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Scene #3 from White Collar on USA Network - "Copycat Caffrey" 7/27

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Scene #2 from White Collar on USA Network - "Copycat Caffrey" 7/27

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Scene #1 from White Collar on USA Network - "Copycat Caffrey" 7/27

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Thursday, July 22, 2010

TV Review: White Collar - "Need to Know" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "Need to Know" - Video - Blogcritics

Article first published as TV Review: White Collar - "Need to Know" - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.org.

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Sunday, July 18, 2010

TV Review: Eureka - "A New World" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Eureka - "A New World" - Video - Blogcritics

Article first published as TV Review: Eureka - "A New World" - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.org.

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Thursday, July 15, 2010

TV Review: White Collar - "Withdrawal" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "Withdrawal" - Video - Blogcritics

Article first published as TV Review: White Collar - "Withdrawal" - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.org

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Monday, July 12, 2010

TV Review: Eureka - "Founders Day" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Eureka
- "Founders Day" - Video - Blogcritics

This was previously published on Blogcritics as TV Review: Eureka
- "Founders Day" - Video - Blogcritics

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Thursday, July 08, 2010

Music Review: Promises Promises The New Broadway Cast Recording - Music - Blogcritics

Music Review: Promises Promises The New Broadway Cast Recording - Music - Blogcritics

Article first published as Music Review: Promises Promises The New Broadway Cast Recording on Blogcritics.

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Sunday, June 27, 2010

Book Review: Larry's Kidney: Being the True Story of How I Found Myself in China with my Black Sheep Cousin by Daniel Asa Rose

Book Review: Larry's Kidney: Being the True Story of How I Found Myself in China with my Black Sheep Cousin by Daniel Asa Rose - Blogcritics Books
Previously published on Blogcritics as Book Review: Larry's Kidney: Being the True Story of How I Found Myself in China with my Black Sheep Cousin by Daniel Asa Rose - Blogcritics Books

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Friday, June 18, 2010

Music Review: Glee Cast - Glee:the Music, Journey to Regionals

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Music Review: Glee Cast - Glee: the Music, Journey to Regionals

Article first published as Music Review: Glee Cast - Glee: the Music, Journey to Regionals on Blogcritics.

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Music Review: Glee Cast - Glee: The Music, Volume 3 Showstoppers - Music - Blogcritics

Music Review: Glee Cast - Glee: The Music, Volume 3 Showstoppers - Music - Blogcritics

Article first published as Music Review: Glee Cast - Glee: The Music, Volume 3 Showstoppers on Blogcritics.

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Wednesday, May 26, 2010

TV Review: Castle - "A Deadly Game" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "A Deadly Game" - Video - Blogcritics

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Article first published as TV Review: Castle - "A Deadly Game" on Blogcritics.

Saturday, May 15, 2010

TV Review: Castle - "Overkill" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "Overkill" - Video - Blogcritics

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Article published on Blogcritics as TV Review: Castle - "Overkill" - Video - Blogcritics.

Thursday, May 06, 2010

TV Review: Castle - "Food to Die For" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "Food to Die For" - Video - Blogcritics

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Article published on Blogcritics as TV Review: Castle - "Food to Die For" - Video - Blogcritics

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

TV Review: Castle - "Den of Thieves" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "Den of Thieves" - Video - Blogcritics

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This has been previously published as TV Review: Castle - "Den of Thieves" - Video - Blogcritics

Thursday, April 15, 2010

TV Review: Human Target - "Christopher Chance" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Human Target - "Christopher Chance" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published on Blogcritics as TV Review: Human Target - "Christopher Chance" - Video - Blogcritics

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Wednesday, April 14, 2010

TV Review: Castle - "The Late Shaft" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "The Late Shaft" - Video - Blogcritics

Was published under the title TV Review: Castle - "The Late Shaft" - Video - Blogcritics

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Friday, April 09, 2010

TV Review: Human Target - "Victoria" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Human Target - "Victoria" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published on TV Review: Human Target - "Victoria" - Video - Blogcritics.

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Wednesday, April 07, 2010

TV Review: Castle - "Wrapped Up in Death" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "Wrapped Up in Death" - Video - Blogcritics

Also published at TV Review: Castle - "Wrapped Up in Death" - Video - Blogcritics

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Saturday, April 03, 2010

TV Review: Human Target - "Tanarak" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Human Target - "Tanarak" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published on Blogcritics as TV Review: Human Target - "Tanarak" - Video - Blogcritics

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Tuesday, March 30, 2010

TV Review: Castle - "Tick, Tick, Tick..." and "Boom" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "Tick, Tick, Tick..." and "Boom" - Video - Blogcritics

This article was also published as TV Review: Castle - "Tick, Tick, Tick..." and "Boom" - Video - Blogcritics on Blogcritics.

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Saturday, March 27, 2010

TV Review: Human Target - "Corner Man" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Human Target - "Corner Man" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: Human Target - "Corner Man" - Video - Blogcritics

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Friday, March 19, 2010

TV Review: Human Target - "Baptiste" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Human Target - "Baptiste" - Video - Blogcritics

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Thursday, March 11, 2010

TV Review: Human Target - "Salvage and Reclamation" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Human Target - "Salvage and Reclamation" - Video - Blogcritics

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Wednesday, March 10, 2010

TV Review: White Collar - "Out of the Box" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "Out of the Box" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: White Collar - "Out of the Box" - Video - Blogcritics

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TV Review: Castle - "The Mistress Always Spanks Twice" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "The Mistress Always Spanks Twice" - Video - Blogcritics

Was published as TV Review: Castle - "The Mistress Always Spanks Twice" - Video - Blogcritics

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Wednesday, March 03, 2010

TV Review: White Collar - "Front Man" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "Front Man" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: White Collar - "Front Man" - Video - Blogcritics

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Wednesday, February 24, 2010

TV Review: White Collar - "Bottlenecked" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "Bottlenecked" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: White Collar - "Bottlenecked" - Video - Blogcritics

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Friday, February 19, 2010

TV Review: White Collar - "Home Invasion" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "Home Invasion" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: White Collar - "Home Invasion" - Video - Blogcritics

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TV Review: Human Target - "Lockdown" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Human Target - "Lockdown" - Video - Blogcritics

Also published as TV Review: Human Target - "Lockdown" - Video - Blogcritics

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Friday, February 12, 2010

TV Review: Human Target - "Run" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Human Target - "Run" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: Human Target - "Run" - Video - Blogcritics

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Saturday, February 06, 2010

TV Review: CSI:NY - "Sanguine Love" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: CSI:NY - "Sanguine Love" - Video - Blogcritics

Also published as TV Review: CSI:NY - "Sanguine Love" - Video - Blogcritics

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TV Review: Human Target - "Sanctuary" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Human Target - "Sanctuary" - Video - Blogcritics

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Wednesday, February 03, 2010

TV Review: White Collar - "Vital Signs" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "Vital Signs" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: White Collar - "Vital Signs" - Video - Blogcritics

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Tuesday, February 02, 2010

Graphic Novel Review: not simple by Natsume Ono - Books - Blogcritics

Graphic Novel Review: not simple by Natsume Ono - Books - Blogcritics

Previously published as Graphic Novel Review: not simple by Natsume Ono - Books - Blogcritics

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Wednesday, January 27, 2010

TV Review: White Collar - "Bad Judgment" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "Bad Judgment" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: White Collar - "Bad Judgment" - Video - Blogcritics

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TV Review: Human Target - "Embassy Row" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Human Target - "Embassy Row" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: Human Target - "Embassy Row" - Video - Blogcritics

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Tuesday, January 26, 2010

TV Review: Castle - "The Third Man" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "The Third Man" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: Castle - "The Third Man" - Video - Blogcritics

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Friday, January 22, 2010

TV Review: CSI:NY - "Flag on the Play" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: CSI:NY - "Flag on the Play" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published asTV Review: CSI:NY - "Flag on the Play" - Video - Blogcritics

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Wednesday, January 20, 2010

TV Review: White Collar - "Hard Sell" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "Hard Sell" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: White Collar - "Hard Sell" - Video - Blogcritics

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Tuesday, January 19, 2010

TV Review: Castle - "Sucker Punch" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "Sucker Punch" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: Castle - "Sucker Punch" - Video - Blogcritics

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Thursday, January 14, 2010

TV Review: CSI:NY - "Criminal Justice" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: CSI:NY - "Criminal Justice" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: CSI:NY - "Criminal Justice" - Video - Blogcritics

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Tuesday, January 12, 2010

TV Review: Castle - "A Rose for Everafter" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "A Rose for Everafter" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: Castle - "A Rose for Everafter" - Video - Blogcritics

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Graphic Novel Review: Hatter M: Mad with Wonder by Frank Beddor - Books - Blogcritics

Graphic Novel Review: Hatter M: Mad with Wonder by Frank Beddor - Books - Blogcritics

Previously published as Graphic Novel Review: Hatter M: Mad with Wonder by Frank Beddor - Books - Blogcritics

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Tuesday, January 05, 2010

Music Review: Straight No Chaser - Christmas Cheers - Music - Blogcritics

Music Review: Straight No Chaser - Christmas Cheers - Music - Blogcritics

This article has also been published as Music Review: Straight No Chaser - Christmas Cheers - Music - Blogcritics
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Sunday, December 27, 2009

Music Review: Alvin and the Chipmunks:The Squeakquel Original Motion Picture Soundtrack - Music - Blogcritics

Music Review: Alvin and the Chipmunks:The Squeakquel Original Motion Picture Soundtrack - Music - Blogcritics

Previously published as Music Review: Alvin and the Chipmunks:The Squeakquel Original Motion Picture Soundtrack - Music - Blogcritics

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Thursday, December 17, 2009

TV Review: CSI:NY - "Second Chances" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: CSI:NY - "Second Chances" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published asTV Review: CSI:NY - "Second Chances" - Video - Blogcritics

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Thursday, December 10, 2009

TV Review: CSI:NY - "Death House" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: CSI:NY - "Death House" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: CSI:NY - "Death House" - Video - Blogcritics

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Wednesday, December 09, 2009

TV Review Castle "The Fifth Bullet"

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TV Review:Castle - "The Fifth Bullet"-Video-Blogcritics

Sunday, December 06, 2009

TV Review: White Collar "Free Fall"

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TV Review:White Collar -"Free Fall" Video-Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review:White Collar -"Free Fall" Video-Blogcritics

Sunday, November 29, 2009

TV Review: White Collar - "All In" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "All In" - Video - Blogcritics

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Wednesday, November 25, 2009

TV Review: Castle - "One Man's Treasure" - Blogcritics Video

TV Review: Castle - "One Man's Treasure" - Blogcritics Video

Previously published as TV Review: Castle - "One Man's Treasure" - Blogcritics Video

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Sunday, November 22, 2009

TV Review: White Collar - "The Portrait" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "The Portrait" - Video - Blogcritics

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Friday, November 20, 2009

TV Review CSI:NY "Cuckoos Nest" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review CSI:NY "Cuckoos Nest" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review CSI:NY "Cuckoos Nest" - Video - Blogcritics

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Wednesday, November 18, 2009

TV Review: Castle - "Love Me Dead" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "Love Me Dead" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: Castle - "Love Me Dead" - Video - Blogcritics

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Sunday, November 15, 2009

TV Review: White Collar - "Flip of the Coin" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "Flip of the Coin" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: White Collar - "Flip of the Coin" - Video - Blogcritics

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Friday, November 13, 2009

Book Review: Gone to Hell: True Crimes of America's Clergy by Randall Radic - Blogcritics Books

Book Review: Gone to Hell: True Crimes of America's Clergy by Randall Radic - Blogcritics Books

Previously published as Book Review: Gone to Hell: True Crimes of America's Clergy by Randall Radic - Blogcritics Books

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TV Review: CSI:NY - "Hammer Down" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: CSI:NY - "Hammer Down" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: CSI:NY - "Hammer Down" - Video - Blogcritics

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Wednesday, November 11, 2009

TV Review: Castle - "Kill the Messenger" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "Kill the Messenger" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published asTV Review: Castle - "Kill the Messenger" - Video - Blogcritics

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Monday, November 09, 2009

Music Review: Switchfoot - Hello Hurricane - Music - Blogcritics

Music Review: Switchfoot - Hello Hurricane - Music - Blogcritics

Previously published as Music Review: Switchfoot - Hello Hurricane - Music - Blogcritics

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Friday, November 06, 2009

TV Review: CSI: NY - "It Happened to Me" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: CSI: NY - "It Happened to Me" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: CSI: NY - "It Happened to Me" - Video - Blogcritics

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Wednesday, November 04, 2009

TV Review: Castle - "Famous Last Words" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "Famous Last Words" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: Castle - "Famous Last Words" - Video - Blogcritics

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Monday, November 02, 2009

TV Review White Collar "Threads"

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Despite the time being Fashion Week, Pete (Tim DeKay) and Neal (Matt Bomer) have more important things on their minds. Well, one of them does anyway. Leave it to Neal to see models are the first to grab a taxi before the Feds do. When Pete mentions they have someone who needs them, Neal uses his skills to grab the very next cab. Note to self -flash cash at the drivers and they pull over! What a useful tip.

After bringing down the Dutchman ("Pilot"), a new villain awaits capture. His name? The Ghost. Sooner or later, there is going to have to be a female baddie, but two episodes into the season is hardly worth passing judgment just yet. The Ghost is into counterfeiting, but there's a little uncertainty as to exactly how. He is, however, ruthless, which is why the meeting at the office is so critical. Tara is a witness to the Ghost killing someone off, and it scares her so much that she goes immediately to the authorities. When she leaves, Neal comes up with a plan. Throw a party so lavish the Ghost has to show and Tara will make the identification. Of course, FBI personnel are surrounding the area to make sure Tara is kept safe.

Elizabeth (Tiffani Thiessen), Pete's wife, gets involved in the case as well. She's an event planner, so her career is a big help. She shows Pete she stands behind the work he does with a gift of a watch. Something which is "him". There is also no mistaking her determination to make sure everything works out by insisting he be home for dinner.

Mozzie (Willie Garson) has some great scenes as he tries to help Neal find Kate, Neal's longtime girlfriend. Neal is starting to think she left him a message, which security tapes at the jail when she last visited prove. Something ties back into the bottle she left as a goodbye present ("Pilot"), but what? So far, the question has yet to be answered.

Natalie Morales makes her debut this week as Lauren Cruz, an FBI rookie who gets assigned the task of tracking Neal. Morales is supposed to be a series regular, and she has already proven herself to be a worthy addition to the cast. Watch the first time Cruz and Neal meet up. She is already wise to his charm, and is not about to let herself be sucked into his game. The minute she reveals just how mistaken about her identity Neal is, makes for classic television.

James Rebhorn also comes into play as the FBI director. I'm going to assume he heads the White Collar division since he does not handle any other case except the one Pete and Neal are working on. Rebhorn is probably going to be a recurring character, who is not seen each week but often enough to be recognized. He might not like the idea of Neal being part of a government intelligence team, but better with them than working on the opposite side.

Now that the second episode has aired, there has been some work done on the opening credits. Not bad! The actor names are not linked to their pictures, but at least there are only five of them. Matt, Tim, Tiffani, Willie, and Natalie. Marsha Thomason, who plays Diana, should be back before too long. As far as I know, anyway. Usually a cast member who is let go for one reason or another is announced well ahead of time.

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Product Review: Periscope Book Light in a book Cover

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As the economy forces people to use money in a manner more wise, one way is to find books from a local library or an inexpensive store. Goodwill, for example. The person who enjoys the written word can get several paperbacks for the price of an individual copy. With the holidays coming up, bibliophiles are looking for anything which enhances the reading experience to give as a gift.

Periscope Bookklight in a Bookcover for Paperbacks does a nice job of filling the bill. Just like the name implies, a light is tucked inside the portion where the spine lies. Note - this DOES require 3 AA batteries to work. They aren't included, but you can pick up a package at the grocery store or Walgreen's if needed. Make sure to put them in with the knobby end pointing out. Smooth end hits the spring, in other words.

Batteries aside, there are several other features which make the Periscope booklight a very useful gadget to have. For example, the LED's which give off the light are two times as bright as the standard version. No more straining one's eyes to see what is written on the page. The range of illumination goes completely from top to bottom. It can stay in the same spot while reading and pages are read without a fumble.

Turing on the light is an easy task. Simply pull the booklight out of its cubbyhole in the cover and it automatically starts glowing. When retracted, the light pops off so there is not wasted energy use. Ridges on the top of the light give your hands a natural place to grab.

A special cover helps to protect your book from the elements. It also takes privacy into account, so others do not have to see what you are perusing. Inside the cover is room for flat items such as a plane ticket or a hand held magnifying glass. A smaller pocket can hold a pen and highlighter for taking notes. There is even a built in bookmark to keep your place for the next time you read.

More is available should one so desire. Hardback books have their own bookcover and booklight if you prefer a heftier size of literary material. Both cover sets come in a variety of colors and finishes. These suit any taste and fancy. An AC adapter can be purchased for those times spent in a hotel room.

With all of these amenities, the cost is well worth it. The basic variety is only about thirty dollars plus tax. However, the price is only a starting point since there are other items one can purchase in addition. I suspect the hardcover version is more since the book contained within is bigger. Versions of this are the Kindle edition and one made for the executive. More information can be found at the Periscope website.

Review previously published on Blogcritics.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

TV Review: Castle - "Vampire Weekend" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "Vampire Weekend" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: Castle - "Vampire Weekend" - Video - Blogcritics

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Monday, October 26, 2009

USA's Collars 5.4 Million With Series Premiere

USA's Collars 5.4 Million With Series Premiere: "USA Network's latest original series White Collar came out of the gate stro..."

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Saturday, October 24, 2009

TV Review: White Collar - "Pilot" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: White Collar - "Pilot" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: White Collar - "Pilot" - Video - Blogcritics

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Thursday, October 22, 2009

TV Review CSI:NY "Battle Scars"

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A dead person in a place like New York is hardly a cause for concern. After all, plenty of large cities around give more than a few opportunities for crime to take place. However, there are a few things which make this a bit more tricky. Stella (Melina Kanakaredes) and Flack (Eddie Cahill) would be content to think a robbery went wrong except for the money still in the victim's apartment. I'm taking about enough bills and coins to fill almost the entire bedspread. No self respecting thief would leave it emrely sitting there.

Mac Taylor (Gary Sinise), the crime lab department head, has another snag on his hands when the only other person at the crime scene is hurt far too badly to be of any help. Still, there is evidence which can be used almost immediately. Between Danny (Carmine Giovinazzo) and Adam (AJ Buckley), fingerprints and DNA are examined with highly capable equipment.

Giovinazzo has always been a strong performer, so watching him hobble around with a cane since his character got shot in the season premiere ("Epilogue") is a powerful image. It's no small thing to stay behind while one's colleagues hit the streets as part of an investigation. Developing the storyline is a credit both to the actor and the writers.

Nice to see Cahill and Giovinazzo together again! The scene where Danny and Flack interrogate a possible prime suspect is classic detective work. These two simply look like cops even in street clothes, which does not work out for everyone. Flack, for once, is not hesitant about doing his job. Somehow, Danny is a calming influence so Flack does not get thrown off balance. Losing his girlfriend was hard for Flack ("Pay Up"), and lately he's been not acting like himself. Should Danny ever learn what really happened at the warehouse raid ("Pay Up"), their friendship might be on shaky ground.

Meanwhile, Mac gets frustrated after a paper advertises the Compass Killer is still on the loose. (They probably have a lead with the compass left behind at the morgue). Sid (Robert Joy) even saw the guy. ("Lat 40 47N Long 73 58W") Assuming there is another episode this season about the case, Skeet Ulrich should return for a fresh guest star appearance.

One small bit of luck. When Mac and crew solve this week's case, they also close the book on another case which is a bit cold.

If the fadeout at the end is to be believed, then next week is either a pre-empt or a repeat airing of a former episode. Since the show runs from September until May, there are several repeats pencilled in so the run doesn't end prematurely.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

TV Review: Castle - "When the Bough Breaks" - Video - Blogcritics

TV Review: Castle - "When the Bough Breaks" - Video - Blogcritics

Previously published as TV Review: Castle - "When the Bough Breaks" - Video - Blogcritics

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Thursday, October 15, 2009

TV Review CSI:NY "Dead Reckoning"

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When Mac (Gary Sinise) hears about a man's murder, the solution is a relatively simple one. The victim has a wife. She confesses to kiling him, so the case should be over and done with. If only things were that simple. Stella (Melina Kanakaredes) has the unfortunate task of giving Mac the bad news: it doesn't match their prime suspect. While the DNA is in fact female in origin, it comes from someone else entirely.

Flack (Eddie Cahill) must now grill the confessor since she appears to be protecting another. Without perhaps meaning to, he mentions feeling okay about a wrongdoing does not take away any guilt. Wow! For the first time, himself acknowledges what has more or less been an open secret. After his girlfriend Jessica was killed during a routine police job, a hunt for the killers had top priority. ("Pay Up").

Flack killed a man, sort of. I have some reservations about the act being a cold blooded one out of pure revene. Sometimes, a cop has to shoot first before a noggodnik gains the upper hand. Eddie Cahill takes on the role of the tortured soul with solid raw skill. Flack is a character who is living with sorrow and trying desperately to hang on. Mac and a few others have noticed the troubling change, but no official action yet. It may only be a matter of time before a life is put in jeopardy.

Danny (Carmine Giovinazzo) is having problems of his own. A drive by shooting paralyzed him from the waist down ("Pay Up"). He finally is standing on his feet Now, does this mean he is able to walk? perhaps. Then again, if he can pull himself to a standing position, bending over to pick up his daughter makes logical sense.

Sinclair (Mykelti Williamson) returns, since the current kerfuffle means pressure from the mayor's office to solve the case. Quickly. Sinise and Williamson work well as two who take their jobs seriously. Good thing, because Mac finds out the true cause of why there are more than a few deaths connected to the same person. Here's a hint - someone is sloppy. The key is not assuming anything without evidence to back up the theory.

Halen (Sarah Carter) appears to have settled in, and there is a reason why she works so hard. The double set of wages from her grant and crime clean up duties help to pay off student loans.

Monday, October 12, 2009

TV Review Castle "Fool Me Once"

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Castle (Nathan Fillion) and Beckett (Stana Katic) have always had some uniqueness to their cases, but this week's is anything but simple. Why? For one thing, it involves a guy who apparently dies while on an expedition to the South Pole. Since the man, a Mr. Fletcher, is on a video feed to schoolchildren, NYPD gets a call to try and investigate exactly what is going on..

A lead is traced to an apartment, where Fletcher is lying dead on the floor. Odd. Not that a corpse is unusual, but isn't this guy halfway around the world? Twists and turns make for an interesting episode up until the arrest when the case can finally be concluded. One of my favorite parts is watching Castle and Beckett work out whether Fletcher just might be CIA. An agent named Gray has to come help them out.

The Captain returns! Ruben Hudson Santiago makes a fresh appearance after being gone for a couple of episodes as the boss in charge of the detectives. Technically, he's in charge of Castle too, even though Castle is a civilian and not subject to the departmental rules Beckett, Ryan (Seamus Dever) and Esposito (Jon Huertas) are. Lanie (Tamala Jones) is the exception. As the medical examiner, she is responsible solely to the state licensing board.

Pressure to solve this case makes everybody on edge. After all, children play no small part. Fletcher being dead is bad enough. To make matters worse, this guy is either a man with multiple identities or a highly skilled con artist. The trick is keep one's mind open to any and all possibilities.

Robert Pine as a wealthy businessman with a family is a nice touch. For those who do not recall the name, Pine is well known for his work on Chips, the police drama with Erik Estrada in the lead role. Playing a protector suits Pine perfectly, and he uses just enough toughness in his voice to get the point across without coming off too strong.

Too bad Castle gets blinded by the case's progress and takes work home with him. Alexis (Molly C Quinn), Castle's daughter, gets a new violin teacher named Dylan. (Tyler Hoechlin). Under ordinary circumstances, this would not be cause for concern. Castle jumps to conclusions about their relationship. Quinn is brilliant in the police conference room as she yells about the misguided impression. No matter how much a parent wants to protect a child, not everything can be avoided..

Other fun moments come as Castle tries to figure out what Beckett thinks of his new book. He has based it on her, sort of. I doubt it is an exact carbon copy. After reading an interview Castle gave to a magazine writer, Beckett declared she should have seen the book first ("Inventing the Girl"). Nathan is charming as he waits with bated breath for Beckett's opinion. It shouldn't matter what she thinks, of course. The book was started before Castle and Beckett met. Still.

Beckett's mom died, but this story is on the back burner for the time being. A serial killer might be involved, but this is speculation on my part and not to be taken as 100% accurate. Other people killed around the same time does not mean much in a major metropolitan city, although Beckett's mom has a connection of sorts to one of them. It's tenuous, but could prove important as time goes on.

Thursday, October 08, 2009

TV Review CSI:NY "Lat 40 47N Long 73 68W"

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With a place like New York for a location, it stands to reason things local would be wrapped into a episode from time to time. having Ellis Island as a crime scene is a stroke of genius. However, there is more to the story than meets the eye.

For example, the deceased works the night shift at Ellis Island. He supposedly talked to his wife before he passed away. According to Hawkes (Hill Harper), the notion is impossible. Why? Since he's a former medical examiner, he can tell about how long the dead guy has been in that state. It's a guess, but usually some sort of evidence exits to at least give a proper range. Plus, despite the hanging corpse, prints indicate antoher person was there too. Homicide! This leads Mac (Gary Sinise) to think the killer might have answered. This is a voice mail, so no need to audibly respond.

A race is on to find whodunit. Having a second corpse doesn't help. The two victims are vastly different, which makes a connection between them unlikely. However, there may be one promising lead. Sid (Robert Joy), the current medical examiner, leaves Mac a message about the second victim's husband stopping by the morgue.

Every season has the potential for a storyline which runs over most of the season. While it doesn't have to air week to week, it takes some time to finish. Perhaps the latest long running plot should be called The Compass Culprit. Despite some terrible lighting issues, I think Skeet Ulrich (Jericho) was in several scenes as a man who wants to get the attention of Mac and his team. Done. Here's the problem- is he there because he's breaking the law and wants to get caught, OR is he attempting to draw attention to someone else who is? I cannot be entirely sure either way.

A new set of eyes is not a bad idea. Good thing Mac hires Halen Becall (Sarah Carter), the crime scene cleanup girl, in the lab part time. Smart girl, she figures out a way to make him notice her. Apply for a grant so her salary is paid for a year. Mac doesn't have to let Adam (AJ Buckley) go. She certainly has the background for the job - biology undergrad and forensics masters. Those degrees are perfect.

Adam and Halen actually make a decent team. They are both dedicated to the job at hand, and have the quirkiness down pat. Competing for the same job? Not exactly. Halen just wants to be in the lab she loves. Adam is smart enough to recognize her talents, but someone should tip him off about the grant. And soon, so he knows his job is secure.

What an improvement over Kendall, the last lab technician! Halen is eager to learn and resourceful in her quest when she wants something. Becall makes watching a joy. Halen steps on other's toes inadvertently. She also senses when she goes too far and clarifies. Would I trust her in a interrogation? Probably not. Someone tougher is needed when it ocems to questioning suspects.

Speaking of, Flack (Eddie Cahill) is grieving still over the death of his girlfriend, Det. Jess Angell. He is holding on, but barely. The beard of stubble seen this week is solid evidence. It's not a bad look, but I've always preferred Eddie Cahill clean shaven. Even after Jess's dad asks Flack to come by for a pot roast dinner, Flack cannot bring himself to walk in the Angell front door. Guilt as the reason makes little sense. After all, Flack is not responsible for Jess being dead. A set of crazed kidnappers is ("Pay Up"). Perhaps Flack is troubled over something else. What, if anything, has not yet been revealed. Stella (Melina Kanakaredes) is worried, and rightly so. Flack self destructs, and somebody could get hurt. Or worse.

Danny (Carmine Giovinazzo) is eager to leave his wheelchair, so he is pushing himself to work hard and achieve this. I'm not sure how chin ups help, but the important part is a man not willing to sit around and feel sorry for himself. Lindsay (Anna Belknap), his wife, is prepared to stand at his side with their daughter to cheer him on.