While we remain perpetually dismayed at the gullibility of American voters, the proof as seen in today's elections in many parts of the country, we move on to more lighthearted subjects.
David Caruso maintained, when filming for Season 8 of "CSI Miami" began back in July, that this season would bring about a return to the basics of the first few seasons. Have we seen signs of this? In our opinion, David has been right on, at least in the episodes viewed to date.
Monday's episode, "Hey, Dude, Where's My Groom?", was another example of a production meant to successfully juggle the various viewer expectations. The regular cast members were well represented, the storyline sophomoric but reasonably plausible, and easily watchable.
We've seen significant, as well as trivial, changes this season. There has yet to be any massive explosions, extensive gunfire, 'can-you-top-this' gory victimology. Relying on plot, character development and a merging of new cast members, there seems to be a bit of grumbling from the action-anticipatory audience, yet less than the complaints from fans on unfinished business from previous seasons.
We understand Eric (Adam Rodriguez) will be returning, so no finality is expected there. The same might be said of Yelina (Sofia Milos). However, what of Kyle (Evan Ellingson), Julia (Elizabeth Berkley), Valera (Boti Bliss), Eric's father? Not seen, not mentioned. Have they simply been wiped off the planet, to reside in a lingering limbo with Suzie and Madison? Good grief, even Clavo Cruz had closure, as did Speed and Alexx.
A trivial change which alerted us from Day One this season was the gradual diminution of the decibel-shattering theme, beginning as an underlayment to the pre-credit script, building to the crescendo of the more familiar "Yeaaaaaah, Don't get fooled again". Such a pleasant introduction, one long overdue.
With that, we've been given one-liners which are far less effective. Either none at all, or words swallowed with the rising strings of the theme. That's not a demand for Horatio-centered one-liners every week. Yet, David's delivery provides an impact not in evidence this season. Many of the regular cast lack the ability to produce the impetus necessary to carry over the credits.
There's an assumption on our part that the ubiquitous Jesse (Eddie Cibrian) will be toned down as the writers determine a comfort level for him. Walter (Omar Miller) has already established his character, as has Tom (Christian Clemenson). Both can generate a snicker, or giggle, when one is deemed necessary. We're impressed Christian has been retained past his two-episode arc; hope he stays. Walter's backstory is a tad flimsy at this point. However, we've lived with Ryan's (Jonathan Togo) liquid past for five years, so should expect nothing more.
After six episodes, our patience is wearing thin waiting for a Horatio-focused script. We already know next week is more Ray Langston (Laurence Fishburne) coming from Las Vegas; looking forward to that trilogy. We usually catch Gary Sinise and "CSI NY"; we may even be inclined to watch "CSI LV", which has never been a favorite. Still, we are in need of a Horatio themed story. Perhaps tidying up a few of his loose threads might be in order this season.
The writers seem to have misplaced the characterizations of the regulars, perhaps in their pursuit to establish multiple new cast regulars. Each of the team, Horatio, Calleigh, Ryan, Natalia and Frank, appear to be stagnating while concentration is directed toward the fresh faces.
In our opinion, the emphasis should be on the regulars, with the newbies visible while they find their niche. What we're seeing is the reverse; the leads playing second banana to the new kids on the block.
Does our critique smack of minutiae regarding Season Eight? Oops! Overall, we are pleased with the efforts of TPTB to date. This season has been enjoyable. However, we would dearly love to see a few of these issues addressed as the year progresses.
For an actual review, read Scott Parker's excellent take on the episode at the link.
10 comments:
I really enjoy Scott Parkers' articles. Ha! It does sound like the "Dimples" opportunity was missed.
It fills some with angst when we read of the high profile focus on the newbies at this stage of the season. I fear there may be reason for this which I have mentioned before but hesitate to do so again.
It does sound like the Season is going well and i have read many positive responses from fans. Overall the effort to re-invigorate the show by incorporating some past formula seems to working. Congratulations TPTB< CSI Miami cast and crew
Yes we do need a Horatio-centered episode --- perhaps one where he is lost in the swamp and Frank has to find him. I recall a very old "Magnum,P.I." episode where Tom Selleck was left floating in the ocean for most of the episode. Yep, a Horatio survival story would suit me just fine.
I did notice that some of Jesse's dialog was what Frank usually says: calling the two suspects "dumb and dumber" then later on referring to the same pair as "Frick and Frack". Someone from the message board reminded me that Rex Lynn's dad died and perhaps that is why he was only in a couple of scenes. Maybe the writers wanted to use those comments, so they gave them to Jesse. Don't know if the timing is right for that scenario or not, but it's a thought.
I hate to say this but I don't see a H centered episode occuring anytime soon, for reasons I hesitate to mention for two reasons. First, it is merely my thoughts and second, I don't want to get yelled at for what I think I see happening.
I like the season so far though as far as it is going back to the lab and I actually see SCIENCE happening...love that!
You won't get yelled at here. Several have expressed the same doubt. In fact, we broached this subject nearly a year ago, then dropped it for fear of inciting panic.
We prefer taking the high road, waiting for that perpetual 'other shoe' to drop.
Hi there, all of You! You give a lot of hints about something noone gonna like, and then drop the subject, not to incite panic?
Whatever You think of...
Go on Dojo, incite panic. I dare ya! Forget the high road, take the wild road. Life is more fun that way.
Will there be a season 9? If so will DC appear in season 9? Will Eva LaRue become an air hostess in an attempt to get more 'air' time? Will Hummer drive off in a huff after being refused a pay increase?
"You need me!" he growls at a despairing Anne Donahue. "I'm like nothing else."
Are people panicking yet...
Not yet. When you see all the Hummers in a huddle, followed by a massive explosion, you'll know it's over.
Last year I knew someone was leaving, personally feared it may have been David. I was wrong; it was Adam. The niggling fear remains, though David has said, repeatedly, he'll be there for the duration.
Will there be a Season 9? That's in the hands of the Rating Gods and CBS. At this point, I'm guessing they're good for 1 more year.
Keep in mind I'm also the one who said the same thing about L&O ten years ago and the one who predicted the reality shows would die an early death. Sadly, viewers really are that gullible. And, finally, to keep my record intact, I'm still reeling that Without a Trace is off and Cold Case is on.
I had wondered if you were all hinting about a Horatio-less Miami.On the forum,people are suggesting that EC is heading for the lead role.
That would definitely be the end of the show for me.Miami without Horatio is unthinkable.I think DC has been quite clever in making the show so much his own.More so probably than the other CSI's.
He always said he would stay to the end but now he has 2 kids and a difficult relationship with the ex. However his business ventures do seem to rely heavily on his fame and staying in the public eye.
Also AD continues to adore him.
Mandy
David also said recently Miami would be fine without him. I still hold an inner angst although, of course, he has a life outside of the show and no doubt he will have, and does have, his fingers in other pies. It would be selfish to think he should keep going for too many more seasons.
OKAY....!!! I ADMIT IT! I AM SELFISH!!!!!
David also said recently Miami would be fine without him.
..............Then, the pregnant pause as he waits for the disclaimers. He doesn't believe that for a minute.
EC as the lead? And, what, move the show to Cartoon Network, Comedy Central, or Playgirl?
Two positives give me hope:
(1) Lexicon isn't yet self-supporting, so DC couldn't match the income;
(2) The adulation would cease, for the most part; i.e., out of sight, out of mind. We know, and DC knows all too well, how fickle the fans are.
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