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show: Moonlight

episode: What's Left Behind

The Bottom Line: "Superb"

I almost hate to admit it, but I loved this episode in spite of the fact that the writer decided to play it safe- not a phrase I would normally associate with Moonlight. All the elements that give Moonlight it's addictive appeal were there, but there was little "oomph". If you are going to have an episode with out a villainous vampire (a move I whole heartily agree with) you need to add impact elsewhere. Josef was in fine form with both wit and seriousness, yet there was far too little of him. The case was interesting and brought up memories for Mick yet I had trouble relating to his guilt. As far as I'm concerned Ray's widow was just that, a widow. Instead feel guilty about disappearing from your best friend's life, although than there wouldn't be the question of Jacob's lineage. Even the MickBeth romance was very low key. If you are going to talk babies I want to see a vampire squirm! Follow through on the good-natured teasing and suggestive comments. This is not a series that is supposed to take the easy way out and shy away from the tough talks. The scene with the pervert vamp was hilarious, but the final confrontation between Mick and the true kidnapper also screamed out for MORE. If the killler is so determined to prove to Jacob that the dark is nothing to be afraid of then it's up to Mick to prove him wrong. Where is that wonderful growl, the glowing eyes, the sharp fangs when they are needed most? I wanted to see the kidnapper scared #%&* and to really have a reason to blow his head off. If a 'monster' is needed to get the job done than I'm all for it. Just don't scare the innocent. All in all a episode that moved things along, but left me wanting MORE. More MickBeth, more romance, more vampire action, more Josef and most especially more Moonlight.

show: Moonlight

episode: Love Lasts Forever

The Bottom Line: "Great"

Much as I loved the story line this is one of those episodes that just asked for a bit more suspension of disbelief (vampires, no problem, other stuff, well...) than I would normally like. I have to assume that conversations involving Coralines disappearance took place off camera and that Beth has somehow worked things out with Mick and Josh since her life seems to be back to business as usual. OK, I can live with that. What I found myself upset about were the medical procedures. For some reason the AO- blood type/artery cauterization/tying off of another artery scenes got my mind yelling "no way" even as I was riveted to the screen. Consider it my own personal bugaboo since the direct pressure and TQ were right on. If you are not expecting accuracy it was one giant thrill ride. Sorry Josh, there was nothing that could be done to save you.

This was an episode that made Mick's claims of being a 'monster' a bit more believable, but since it was for a good cause I loved it. Nice to see a vampire be a vampire even as he wrestles with being an immortal with very mortal feelings. The action sequences and interrogation room were some of the best. Definitely a nail biter from start to finish.

show: Moonlight

episode: The Ringer

The Bottom Line: "Perfect"

This episode has everything one has come to expect from Moonlight. Mick and Beth get to show their feelings without acting directly on them, complications of Mick's past cause problems and Josef finally gets some decent screen time.

A case of arson serves as the catalyst to bring Morgan into Mick's life. The only problem is that she is an (un)dead ringer for Mick's ex wife. Mick already has trouble dealing with Coraline's ghost and having to work with Morgan drives him close to the edge. Beth is obviously jealous of what she sees as Mick' interest in another woman. Although there was limited Mick/Beth interactions compared to previous episodes what there was moved the relationship along quite nicely. Simple things like Beth naturally resting her hand on Mick's, or not wanting to "share" him when Morgan asks about hiring him show the depth of her feelings. She is distressed when Mick speaks about being obsessed with Coraline, yet she is still the human that Mick turns to. Beth is just as determined as Mick is to figure out the mystery. They are truly becoming a team.

I also loved some of the little flourishes of what it means to be a vampire. Mick casually walking by and turning the handle that two firefighters were struggling over was one such detail. Josef taking such glee in having teeth was another. These touches are what help make the show.

show: Moonlight

episode: B.C.

The Bottom Line: "Great"

While I liked the premise of this episode it seems lacking in the character interactions that have made the series so enjoyable. Compared to the near perfect Mick/Beth scenes of previous episodes there was limited banter/suggestive glances and knowing smiles. The characters seemed almost awkward in each others presence-and I'm not talking "I drank her blood/she kissed me" uncomfortable. Some scenes were blatant while others were bland. Even Josef seems to have lost his bite.

What worked? Josef waking Mick up to ask for his help. Mick showing up at the morgue with vampire remains. The Lola/ Beth club scene and Beth waking up in Mick's shirt.

What would have made this episode perfect? Josef needs to show more concern regarding Lola's silver purchase-he's old enough to know when something is suspicious. Even after being presented with a vial of Black Crystal he was still more jilted lover and less 'lets destroy the threat'.

Mick and Beth finally discussing their kiss. If Beth is able to ignore the sting of microchip insertion while just talking about their kiss where are the the signs of the endorphin rush? There should be plenty of suggestive glances while Mick says " let's just call it an ....Accident" while making it perfectly clear that's the last thing he wants it to be and Beth responding with a bold glance and her sexy voice "whatever you want". Also when Mick let's on that he is looking for a 'she' and notices Beth is jealous the responses should be "it's just business" and "where have I heard that before".

During the raid on the club Beth shoots Josh a dirty look but needs to follow it up with "Mick was good enough to help me and you're treating him like a criminal" Followed by a very sarcastic "thanks for the ride home' At least give her something to owe Josh an apology for. It might help explain some of the anger that leads to her reckless decision to try the Black Crystal. Beth may be bold but she is generally not stupid.

Beth making a pass at Mick while he resists is in character but a voice over (love them) of Mick wondering if it is wrong to accept what is being offered if the why/how is wrong would of added to the conflict. Also the shower scene would of been really hot if it was clear that Mick's brain knew it was the drug but his hands had not quite gotten the message. Alex is a good enough actor to pull it off-use his perfect conflicted expressions to their full advantage. Would also given Beth some perfect flashbacks for a (near) future episode when Josh touches her and she realizes something is lacking. Beth's wake up scene is good as far as it goes but "next time I make a pass at you it won't be the drug" as she heads up the stairs to change would of caused me to wear out the rewind button rewatching Mick's facial expressions.

The Mick/Lola fight was another scene that screamed out for a voice over. If you are not going to have Josef help at least have Mick comment on how he knows brute force is not going to win it for him (after all sexual frustration can only take you so far). It appears that he knows that playing the fool and charging Lola will not do it so add the commentary about whether or not he is being overconfident in believing he can lull Lola into a false sense of security or if she is being overconfident in not really taking him seriously as a challenger.

Every other episode has ended with Mick and Beth. As she puts the vial of Black Crystal away she should be feeling Mick's presence so strongly that she glances in the mirror and sees his reflection as well as hers.

Hopefully Beth and Josh will break up soon and Josh will follow up on his suspicions of what Beth is not telling him to make life even more complicated for Mick and Beth. He is a good guy and should not be killed off. He should be able to remain a presence without coming across as a stalker.