Sunday, February 22, 2009

A Letter

Dear Broadway, 

Could you please find a vehicle for Will Chase that doesn't close within days or weeks? It would be much appreciated. He's a fine talent--a gorgeous voice, a great actor and has a good sense of comedy. I've loved him since the disaster that was Lennon--when bad musicals happen to a good cast. So please, please, let him have his own hit. 

Thank you. 

Sincerely,

Me. 

Saturday, February 21, 2009

When Treehuggers Go Vigilante

I’ve gotten into Eleventh Hour…mostly because of Rufus Sewell…so I’ve decided to start recapping. Hopefully, I’ll be able to go back and recap the episodes I’ve missed.

The episode starts with patrons in a bar watching a car chase on their local news. A helicopter report named Terry is up in the air reporting on the resulting crash when he seems to have problems. The anchor asks him if he can see anything going on on the ground, but Terry responds he is blind. The police tell him to climb higher but he’s panicking. Someone off camera orders them to cut the feed and the screen goes fuzzy as Terry’s copter spins out of control.

The next day, Dr. Jacob Hood (Rufus Sewell) and FBI agent Rachel Young (Marley Shelton) arrive at the crime scene. Rachel says that they are getting some help on this case and Hood spots him. A young man runs up, all excited. He is Agent Felix Lee. He tells the two about the previous few minutes. He tells them that Terry was part of the Hostage Rescue Team, along with the director. Hood wonders why the sight went while Felix offers a theory of River Blindness, caused by nematodes. Hood shoots it down. Felix does offer Terry’s wedding ring. The clock ticks to eleven and we go to credits.

Hood and Young visit Terry’s widow. Hey, remember Center Stage? It’s the actress who played Maureen, the school’s queen bee. She’s crying about her husband and Hood explains that Terry suffered from Rapid Onset Blindness. He asks her if her husband had complained of other symptoms. She says no and that Terry took his job seriously. She suffers some pain and reveals she is pregnant, crying that she didn’t want to raise a child alone. Hood promises to tell her if they find anything. Hood and Young leave to go to the studio, to watch Terry’s footage.

They sit with Terry’s assistant, now junior reporter. She worries about Erica, Terry’s wife. Hood thanks her, calling her Debbie. He notices the following: Terry turning the volume down on his headset, a lingering rash, and sweating when it is cold. Debbie beats herself up for not noticing and notes it began two weeks ago. Rachel gets a phone call while Debbie talks about being told Erica was pregnant. Meanwhile, the wife has gone blind and rushed to the hospital.

Hood talks to a doctor. He’s confused about Erica’s condition. He does say that he’s seen a lot of patients with odd symptoms, like a traffic cop who couldn’t write tickets. Hood says “Minamata,” a city in Japan where they first learned the damage of heavy metal poisoning. The doctor goes to test for it, leaving Hood to go find the source. Meanwhile, some guy empties his RV out as a trooper scolds him for polluting the environment. The guy gives him a ticket.

It is mercury poisoning. It is curable but Erica can’t be given treatment because she is pregnant. They tell her she and the baby are in trouble and they need her permission to perform an emergency C-section. Erica panics—she is only in her second trimester—and asks for percentage. It is low but Hood tells her that the two will get sicker if she doesn’t get treatment. Erica is determined not to lose the baby. And we tick to commercial…

Rachel says they are bringing a team from the EPA while Hood tries to figure out what contaminated these people. Rachel says they only have four cases but Felix comes out to say that there are 25 new cases reported by other hospitals. Rachel asks where they start and Hood replies with immersive garbology. Felix is all for it until…He learns it is going through people’s garbage. Rachel expresses her disgust as they go through the garbage. Hood figures they either ate or drank the mercury. An officer approaches—he’s the traffic cop. He isn’t as toxic so Hood asks him for help. He has more dietary concerns than me. Rachel finds milk and the officer notes he uses the same brand. Hood tests the carton and it comes back…positive. Felix is sent to issue a recall for Lake Fresh as the company investigates production.

Debbie is busy putting together a memorial segment for Terry as the trooper from Mr. RV comes to see her. They are married and he consoles her. It is so sweet if you didn’t already know he’s a little psychotic.

Felix gets results from someone at Lake Fresh, calling Rachel. The equipment is clean at both plants but the milk is tainted. So they have to trace the milk to the dairy farm, but Felix narrows it down to one—Andoria Farms. As Rachel and Hood travel to the farm, our trooper friend goes to get an old, broke down refrigerator. Oh yeah, totally psychotic. As he buys it, our two heroes arrive at the farm. The owner gives them a tour and Hood notes that there aren’t as many cows. The owner says he sold some to raise money but Hood notices a freshly plowed field. He calls in Felix to bring in a digger. They find a dead cow.

Felix talks with the farmer, saying his family farms as well. He takes the “I understand” approach with the farmer. The farmer admits he thought the cow had Mad Cow and put her down. Hood informs him that it was mercury poisoning and that he should’ve contacted the Health Department. The farmer is taking into custody as the doctor gives Erica a sonogram. He says the baby looks fine but Erica is in danger from the mercury poisoning. He encourages her to have the C-section, revealing her baby is a boy.

Back at the farm, Hood gets a call. He had asked a friend to run a model on an alternative treatment for Erica but it didn’t work. Felix asks Hood how he deals with the people no longer being just names. Hood honestly replies he doesn’t know. Rachel comes up and asks if there is a way to find the source of the poisoning. Hood says she is standing it in and she notices she’s standing in manure. Hood analyzing it to find fish bones, fish meat used to supplement the cows’ diet. Felix finds the fish, tainted with mercury. Hood focuses on the herring. He goes down to the lake and notes that herring normally don’t carry mercury. Rachel wonders how they will search Lake Michigan but Hood says they’ll just follow the seagulls. They follow the gulls into a scene from The Birds, with the gulls attacking the car. A gun shot scares off the birds as Debbie’s husband came to save the day. They let him have a gun?!?! Tick to commercial…

Debbie’s husband works for the Department of Fish and Wildlife and says he’s seen the alarming harm we’ve done to the environment. He blames the government but Rachel reminds him they aren’t the enemy. Hood gets a gull’s GPS transmitter and Hood follows it to the source of the mercury poisoning. He sends a scuba diver down and they lift up…the old refrigerator. We all knew where this was going the minute the husband entered the picture, right? Hood opens it to find liquid mercury, Felix focuses on the maggots and Rachel notes the glass. Felix says it is from old barometers, which contained liquid mercury. Hood and Rachel play verbal ping-pong, impressing Felix. The two have a great repertoire.

Hood is called back to the hospital after Erica suffers a setback. Hood goes in to talk to her. Erica is scared and can’t ask her husband, earning Rachel’s sympathy. Erica asks Hood what he would tell his wife. Important note: Hood’s wife died a few years ago from cancer. The question chokes him up and he tells her to go with her heart. Rachel watches, concerned as Debbie comes for a visit. Hood comes out to tell them she will have the baby. Debbie talks to Hood as Felix comes up. He has found out how much barometers were sold. A man named Lars Sandersy bought them. Debbie says that the name is the Latin name for a gull. Hood notes her necklace, starting to oxidize. She gives up her husband.

He’s down at the lake with a refrigerator as Debbie approaches. She asks him, Ben, and pleads that he wasn’t the one poisoning people. Ben figures mercury poisoning was curable. Debbie cries, wondering what her husband did. He argues he did it for their family and for their planet. He’s an eco-warrior, isn’t he? Debbie finally notes what we all knew—he’s crazy. Ben argues that the tragedy will make people take notice. Debbie returns the necklace as Rachel approaches to arrest him. He’s all doom and gloom about the planet while Rachel says she’s not sorry since he killed someone. He runs and Felix takes him down. It’s impressive.

At the hospital, Erica sees—yes, sees—her baby boy. The doctor tells the duo that the baby is strong. Outside, Felix seems to be practicing a speech. He talks with Hood and Rachel. Hood thanks Felix for his help. He says good-bye but then uses his pitch—hanging around, saying he is wanted. However, Rachel and Hood burst his bubble with the director’s comments about Felix begging for the assignment. Turns out, he’s a big fan of Hood and Rachel. He asks to join the team. Hood throws it to Rachel, who throws it back to him. He asks if he’ll regret it and Felix hugs him. Rufus Sewell’s face is priceless, but they walk out together.

Next week: A small town is struck by lightning 30 times. Felix joins Rachel and Hood in solving the crime. 

Friday, February 20, 2009

Top Model Reminder!

This is a reminder that America's Next Top Model starts Wednesday, March 4th. Some are still reporting the old date of Feb. 25th. The CW pushed it back to give us a two-hour premiere. Also, once again, only 13 model wannabes will be fighting to be called the dubious title of "America's Next Top Model." 

I can't wait to recap Tyra's antics again. And hopefully, we'll get a decent bitch this cycle. Unless Jade just broke the bar...

Anyway, I was wondering, readers, should I do my recaps in pink again or change colors? Purple? Blue

Amy Needs an "I Chose Me" Moment

Last week on Secret Life of the American Teenager: Amy’s Dad and Molly met and argued over prospective parents before they both agreed—with Amy—on Leon and Donovan. Jack and Shawna keep up their slightly illegal affair while Ricky dumps both Grace and Adrian. He confesses to Jack he’s in love with Amy. Meanwhile, Amy and Ben take a break.

Ernie Hudson’s back! He’s surprised to hear that Bryan Callen came back and that Ricky didn’t call him. Ricky reminds him about the whole kissing his daughter episode. He recaps the Bryan Callen arc for Ernie. He is smart enough to know that Ricky is in love. He says he doesn’t love Grace or Adrian and mentions her feelings for her (step) brother. He admits his feelings for Amy, saying maybe he subconsciously wanted Amy to get pregnant. Ernie is incredulous, reminding Ricky will not be able to love until he loves himself. Ricky says he does because he knows he is not Bryan Callen and will never become him. Ernie is proud of the progress and presses Ricky for details about Amy and Baby Boy. Ricky tries to convince himself that Leon and Donovan will be good parents but then realizes he still wants to keep the baby. Ernie’s like “Two steps back.” He wants time with Amy. Ernie’s trying to insert logic into Ricky’s mind. Good luck. That’s like me trying to insert logic into a Mary Sue author’s mind. We go to credit as Ricky declares that Ben is not a problem.

CREDITS!

Amy’s Dad wants to know where Molly is going looking all dolled up. He works out that she is going on an interview. She wonders when he’ll move out. He points out that he has no money so he can’t…besides, it’s also his house. Molly asks Amy’s Dad to make himself scarce when Ricky and Amy meet with Donovan and Leon. He agrees as Ashley comes down to tell her parents Amy’s sick and not going to school. Molly knows this about Ben and Amy’s Dad is surprised to hear they are “taking a break.” He gets the story from Ashley and wonders if Amy should have sex with Ben. At a look from his youngest, he retracts it. He’s learning!

Molly tries to convince Amy to go to school, saying that even if she wasn’t carrying Ricky’s baby, Amy and Ben would still fight over something. Amy wonders if she would be better off with Ricky. Molly tries to squash that thought before asking Amy’s Dad to talk to her. He tells her that guys are bad at apologizing and she should call him. He reminds her that she is beautiful, even pregnant. Dad makes sure she isn’t going to fall for Ricky. Amy knows he has feelings for him. Molly asks them to find Ashley before Amy hints she isn’t too sure about giving up her son for adoption. Dad lets her stay home but encourages her to come out to look for Ashley, asking when she had fun last. As she looks down, he pleads to her not to answer band camp. She laughs and they have a very sweet moment.

He may be a bonehead husband, but he’s a good father.

Ashley, meanwhile, is waiting at a bus stop. A blond boy, named Thomas, says they go to school together. Ashley apologizes, saying she’s been preoccupied with her sister’s pregnancy. Thomas accepts it, countering with the death of his 17-years-old dog. The two commiserate over a…cigarette…as Dad pulls up. Amy wants to wring her neck for smoking and then lets her wait for the bus. He drives off as Thomas offers to skip with her. She refuses. Amy’s surprised that her dad left her there. Dad’s certain Ashley wouldn’t smoke. As he and Amy fight over her wrong choices, he offers to find Ben so they can make up—convinced the two are meant to be together. Amy wonders if fate meant for her to be with Ricky. Dad absolutely disagrees and takes her to school.

Grace is surprised when her mother hands her birth control. Josie Bisset was surprised to see condoms in the bathroom but eventually works out her daughter is still a virgin. Grace is thrilled to get birth control pills but Josie stresses that she should have sex once she’s married. She tells Adrian who is surprised as is Ricky, especially since he dumped her. Adrian reminds Grace not to have sex as she is a Christian before Ricky reminds her about he relationship with brother Max. Adrian admonishes Grace, telling her that people will try to sleep with her now that she has birth control. They argue over Ricky before Jack comes up, remind Grace she is a Christian. The Catholic over here is rolling her eyes. Jack goes to talk to…was that Alice? And adding his two cents is Ricky, repeating Adrian’s warning. Grace says he can call her.

Adrian asks if Ricky is going to sleep with Grace. He says he doesn’t care anymore. He tells Adrian he did care about her but not any more, not with the baby on the way. Adrian tries to convince him that he shouldn’t be with Amy.

Ben meets up with Ashley, saying he had to wait for his driver. Ashley tries to get him to reconcile with Amy so she won’t give the baby up for adoption. Ben says he can’t make that decision and if Amy wants to be with Ricky, he’ll let her. Amy reminds him of the wedding, he reminds her it was a not!marriage. Ben says something that would make Mr. Molina drop to his knees and praise the Lord that something got through—that people under 18 don’t get married because they change their minds. Ben says that Amy may have feelings for Ricky and he can’t put up with her deception. Ashley says her sister is crazy and doesn’t know what she wants. She feels like she is the only sane person in the world, but she’s starting to become the crazy idealist. Mr. Molina is still the sanest person, crazy wife or not.

By the way, the actor who plays Mr. Molina was spotted on "Eleventh Hour" last Thursday (2/12) as a Mexican sneaking his girlfriend and cloned baby into the country. So that's what Mr. Molina does when he isn't going crazy at Ulysses S. Grant High School. 

Molly meets with Ernie Hudson, probably trying to fish for information about Ricky. She calls in Amy and Lauren’s friendship, then remembers Lauren’s mom’s rule about “no seeing the pregnant teen.” Molly is afraid Ricky will go back on the adoption, disappointing Donovan and Leon again. Ernie tells her to trust her gut, advice he always gives. He says to observe Ricky—that’ll answer her questions.

Ricky and Amy talk in the band room. Ricky’s nervous about meeting Donovan and Leon. Amy calms him down, saying that all they want is to meet Ricky. He worries that they might move away or get divorced. Amy’s certain that won’t happen and then realizes Ricky’s having second thoughts. He tries to calm her now. She tells him to be himself as he wonders who that is.

Max brings his (step) sister flowers. She is surprised and says they aren’t courting. He says he is and that he remembers she likes flowers. She can’t remember saying anything about that. She wonders what the flowers mean and he counters he wonders what she means. Adrian is confused, saying they were just going to hang out. She wonders when they are going to have sex. He wants to get to know her first. Adrian asks if he is gay. He’s put off, arguing that if someone doesn’t want to sleep with her, they aren’t gay. She thinks Daddy Dearest is behind it. Max argues he isn’t and just wants to have a regular date with her. Adrian agrees to go.

Grace fields a call, from someone asking if she wants to go somewhere. She’s now Miss Popular. Tom and Grace don’t know why. Josie does and lets Tom go to Tammy’s house. Josie thinks the birth control is the result of her sudden popularity. Really, a girl getting birth control is still a big deal? Maybe it’s because I went to an all-girls school…Grace says she likes the feeling the pills give her and remind her that sex is physical. That reminds me of when I turned 18, minus the sex part. Josie is afraid with Grace’s newfound attraction to sex but Grace still wants to do it with someone she wants to be with till death do them part. Grace fields another call.

It’s Duncan! He knows Jack is with Shawna, saying that they are stupid and obvious. Duncan warns Jack to be careful and to not hurt his sister. Jack assures him that he isn’t with Shawna because she’s a “good time.” Duncan asks him about his plans for Shawna. Jack answers the prom and admits he isn’t sure. He and Duncan go out to hang—like Jack’s court order mentoring advises.

Ricky’s foster mother knows Donovan and Leon and he praises her. Donovan and Leon listen intently. So does Molly, eavesdropping and knows Ricky is sabotaging the adoption. A blind person can tell Ricky is trying to get Donovan and Leon to take in an older child in foster care. Molly asks if Ashley knew about this. She says no as Molly continues to look nervous.

Donovan and Leon talk in the car, feeling that Ricky is screwed up. They don’t want the baby, they want their foster children back. They feel Amy’s baby will be fine no matter what happens. Ricky’s plan worked. I think. Anyway, Adrian and Max come back home and she is surprised she enjoyed going on an actual date. She agrees to do it again as he kisses her good night. She’s over the moon. She cancels a call—from Ricky. He leaves a voice message and then calls Grace. She doesn’t pick up as Josie looks on.

Back at the house, Molly is having a piece of cake. She wonders if Amy’s Dad talked to Donovan, but he forgot. Molly is afraid Ricky will sabotage all the other adoptions. They learn Ben is coming over, courtesy of Ashley, and then Amy’s Dad tells her that Ashley was “smoking” with some guy at the bus stop. Ben rings the bell and Amy is ready to kill him. She asks for one moment of privacy, kicking everyone out. Ben asks if she is in love with Ricky. She says no. Ben asks if she loves him enough to spend the rest of their life together. She says she just loves the baby and says it loud enough so Dad, Molly and Ashley can hear it. Ben says he loves Amy, she asks for some time. They continue to argue over Ricky. She says she can take care of herself and the baby will be adopted. Ben says he doesn’t want her to put the baby up for adoption. He reiterates that he wants to be with her. The family is still listening as Ben kisses Amy.  He lets her think.

As the Chords of Meaningfulness play us out, Amy lets Ben feel her baby kick.

Quote of the Episode:

“We’re not a couple anymore. You’re just some guy living in my garage.” –Molly

Next week: Grace tells Adrian to become a virgin again, Molly forces Amy to get a job and Ben has it out with Ricky. 

Sunday, February 15, 2009

I Closed My Eyes...

Better late than never, I guess. BBC America announced that it will be airing the BBC reality show "Any Dream Will Do." The series ran back in the late spring/early summer of 2007. 

"Any Dream Will Do" was the popular follow-up to "How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?" where Andrew Lloyd Webber turned the process of casting the role of Maria in The Sound of Music into a reality show. The result was the choice of Connie Fisher for the role by the BBC viewing populace. She opened as Maria to rave reviews. The popularity of the show convinced producer David Ian to bring it here to America to cast a revival of Grease ("Grease: You're the One That I Want") which didn't do too well but produced two stars: Max Crumm and Laura Osnes, who will be taking over for Kelli O'Hara as Nellie in South Pacific. Webber though decided to use the same formula but this time cast for one of his shows. He set out to find Joseph for Joseph and the Amazing Color Dreamcoat. 

The show's first two to three episodes are similar to American Idol: you see the countless auditions but rather than being told they are going to Hollywood, the young hopefuls are sent to another round of auditions. The fifty who survive this round are sent to "Joseph School" where instructors and judges focus on each contestant while improving the skills they will need to play the role. The twenty-something that graduate Joseph School are sent to a performance attended by Andrew Lloyd Webber and everyone who lives near him. After this, Webber calls the hopefuls in and tells them "Who could be Joseph" and "Who isn't Joseph" until there are twelve finalists. 

The live shows begin then and proceed like this:

1. Opening number performed by all the hopefuls, always a song from the musical 
2. Introductions 
3. The contestants sing, usually in pairs for the beginning
4. The two stand before the judges who tell them their strong points and weak points. Usually the fun part because someone usually ends up arguing with John Barrowman. 
5. Little interviews and funny shots in between
6. Another group number. 

The next day, the results show begin:

1. Reprise of the opening number from the day before
2. Introductions
3. Video of the "Joseph Mission" (My personal favorite was when they had to perform in only a loincloth in front of their mothers)
4. The judges are asked who they think isn't Joseph.
5. Host Graham Norton reads off those who are safe and those who aren't. It's varied so the first name called could be safe or could not. Also, just because they are called first and safe doesn't mean they have the most votes. This number is never revealed--only the person with the least amount of votes is told. 
6. The bottom two perform one song in a "sing-off"--Webber has the final say in who stays and who goes. This power is taken away for the semi-finals and finals. 
7. Webber makes his decision.
8. The remaining contestants sing "Poor, Poor Joseph" and the booted contestant sings "Close Every Door" as he is stripped of his colored coat. He ends the song on top of the stairs as the audience applauds. 

I watched "Any Dream Will Do" because I was absolutely addicted to "Grease: You're the One that I Want." However, I was forced to watch it via the nice people on YouTube, but the BBC has to be the best at getting its material taken down off the site. (Really, try finding a Doctor Who episode after it's aired. It's hard). So to avoid this, many who posted on YouTube only posted performances and as much of the judging as they could.  So, even though I know the winner, I will be tuning in to see the whole shows as they were meant to be watched. 

And yes, I'll be recapping 'em for the Americans just tuning in. 

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Forgiveness All Around! Unless Your Name is Amy.

Last week on Secret Life of the American Teenager: Amy gave Ricky a dose of reality about the baby, Ben got a dose of reality of his own, Molly Ringwald finally called out her younger daughter’s sarcastic nature, a gay couple courted George in hopes of adopting Amy’s baby, Adrian kissed her step-brother, Grace learned the truth about Ricky and Adrian…and then still believed Ricky would come back to her while Ricky gave Amy the okay for adoption.

Amy’s lying on her bed, refusing to go to school. She tries to use “I’m pregnant” as an excuse to stay home sick. Ashley consoles her sister, who hasn’t heard from Ben. She offers to pawn a ring she was given by the waitress from two weeks. Amy tells Ashley about Donovan and Leon. She doesn’t support her sister’s decision and tells her to not just give the baby away. She first accuses Amy of giving the baby up so someone else could do what she should and then to keep Ben.

And now the Sausage King is singing a different tune. He tells Ben that 15 is too young to be married but he did his best. And the Sausage King is proud of his son and tries to convince him that he did the right thing. Ben is standing aside for Ricky. The Sausage King drags his son to school.

CREDITS!

Shauna the Slut calls Jack, sounding like she’s sorry. And she tells Jack that she doesn’t have a boyfriend, she made it up because Jack is still in high school. She’s 20 and Jack argues that’s not too much older. Except according to the law. But they decide to be a couple anyway. Jack says he did something stupid. Telling Grace that Ricky was cheating on her wasn’t stupid, Jack. Oh, hey, the Blabbermouth Duo come back complaining about how clingy Ben was. Even Jack agrees before rushing off. They continue talking before Jason and Madison start bickering in the hallway. Lauren encourages her friend to make up with her boyfriend though she made it clear Madison will be dumped soon.

Jack apologizes to Grace who needs a recap. Alice comes up and Jack says they are just friends. She hisses before walking away.  Grace says Jack was right before an awkward moment between Jack, Grace, Ricky and Adrian. Henry comes up to Alice and tells her the news about Amy and Ben. She’s surprised and they try the “trash talk the ex” cheering up route. It doesn’t work. Ben tries to get consolation from Mr. Molina but he awesomely puts his foot down and tells Ben it is just now academic. Jack comes in to talk about the mentoring program but gets the boot when he starts talking about Shauna. Two seconds later, Adrian announces: “I’m thinking about having sex with my brother.” Mr. Molina leaves, finally giving up on the insanity. You go, Mr. Molina.

Sad looks and the Chords of Meaningfulness’ brother, the Chords of Melancholy, strike up as Amy and Ben pass each other in the hall.

We come back to Molly placing flowers in a vase. Lovely arrangement, Molly. Amy’s Dad comes in and gets the third degree. He’s sick, too, like Amy and Ben. Molly says she’s meeting a couple Rev. Stone suggested for adoption. Linda and Jim. Amy’s Dad insists on meeting the couple before pushing Donovan and Leon. Molly asks why. He says no reason. And we cut to: Josie Bisset taking a swig. John Schneider comes by for lunch, wondering about the wine. Josie says she was just checking it out while cleaning the refrigerator. John moans about their lack of a love life. Josie says he’s bitter. John says they’ve been living a lie for 17 years. Josie argues that it was one question. She then begs for forgiveness. He gives it and they try to run for the bedroom, but Tom’s upstairs sulking over Tammy.

Molly’s waiting for Linda and Jim, who have been shanghaied by Amy’s Dad. Jim drinks a beer while Linda scolds. Linda says she’s not open to an open adoption, saying Amy and the Jurgens would be out of the baby’s life. Jim seems ready to negotiate on it. The couple leaves as Molly spots them. And it suddenly it turns into a sitcom. Donovan calls to ask to talk to Molly after closing, slightly spilling the beans.

Amy glumly watches couples past her as the Blabbermouth Duo try to tell her she did the right thing. Amy wants to apologize and Lauren says it isn’t Ben’s business. Ricky is the baby’s daddy. Amy tells them about Donovan and Leon. She wants to make up with Ben, giving him the ring Ashley gave her and be with him. Lauren and Madison tell her to wait, see if Ben apologizes. They tell her to start over and live her dreams. And giddy Madison leaves while Amy tells Lauren that Ben was the best thing to happen to her this year. Henry and Alice watch her talk with her friends. They’re worried that Amy’s trying to get Ben back. Alice remarks on Ben’s romantic nature as Ben walks up. He’s worried that Amy’s still in love with Ricky because she’s the type to have feelings with someone. Ben’s just a ball of confusion and asks for a sign.

Adrian and Grace have it out. She wanted to be friends with Adrian because she wasn’t having sex with Ricky. She tells Adrian to stop having sex with her boyfriends. Grace calls her the “b-word.” Just that. Grace refuses to say “Bitch.” They are gathering a crowd. Grace says: “God help Adrian because she’s a bitch.” They then get into a cat fight for twenty seconds. They start laughing and apologize. Grace says that Ricky’s made her an idiot. Okay, not as naïve as we think. Adrian gives her Ricky because she has her brother. Grace gives her a look and then agrees for coffee.

Ricky apologizes for breaking up her and Ben. He then squashes it by calling Ben a wuss. And even though he gave them the okay for the adoption, he’s not. He brings her to tears, giving her a comforting hug. And who should see the hug? Grace, Adrian and Ben.

Adrian and Grace have dinner together. They talk about Amy and Ben being married. I guess no one told Grace and Adrian that it was a not!marriage. Grace says she wants to be married to Ricky one day. Adrian can’t believe it. The two talk about Ricky and sex. They cut to her parents in post-coital. John Schneider tries to sweet-talk her into having more kids. She ix-nays and goes downstairs to see Tom and Tammy in bathrobes. Josie is unnerved until it’s revealed they were in the hot tub. She’s relieved and tells them not to have sex. Way to plant ideas, Josie. Fortunately, Tammy wants a wedding first. These two are kinda sweet.

Duncan and Jack are working on Duncan’s homework though Jack is not really focused. Duncan knows something is up and tells Jack to go with his sister. Jack then leaves as Duncan tells his sister that Jack’s in high school. She races out the door to kiss Jack and makes a plan with him Wednesday nights. Turns out Shauna is a Christian too who attends services on Wednesday. Wow. Duncan warns his sister not to anything stupid enough to get thrown in jail. Thank you, Duncan.

Donovan and Leon address Molly about the adoption. Molly agrees with the idea of the two of them adopting the baby. They said they approached Amy’s Dad first because they figured HE’D have the most difficulty agreeing to it. Amy’s Dad takes offense as Molly likes them more and more. Amy comes down to talk to Leon and Donovan.

Molly and Amy’s Dad share a dessert. Molly finally notes Amy’s Dad’s misgivings about adoption. Sounds like Molly is hesitant, which he notes. He then apologizes for not working harder on the marriage or for the cheating. She forgives him but Ashley doesn’t. She then tosses an egg on the floor and Amy’s Dad wonders if Donovan and Leon will take Ashley. Molly gives her a vote of confidence.

Back in the living room, Donovan and Leon want to make sure Amy’s sure about the adoption. They almost had children but the parents found out they were gay and refused. They also ask to meet Ricky, asking about Ben in the process. She starts crying and they look lost. She says she messed things up with Ben and does love him. Phew, the commercials made it sound like she was still in love with Ricky. Donovan and Leon offer to drive her to Ben’s to talk. They want to see where the Sausage King leaves.

Jack goes to apologize to Ricky, who could care less. He’s trying to do some reading about pregnancies. In the process, Ricky admits he’s in love with Amy. Jack reminds him of the wedding. Did nobody tell these people it was a not!marriage? Jack’s surprised and walks away. Grace calls but Ricky cuts her off, saying he can’t talk to her anymore. She then calls Adrian, who tells her to let it go. Now Adrian calls Ricky to invite him over. He tells Adrian they are finished. Now Adrian’s concerned.

Amy goes to Ben’s house. The Sausage King opens the door but doesn’t invite her in. He tells her that he loves Amy and the baby but also Ben. He’s not sure if Ben wants to still be with her. He asks her to give Ben some time to make the decision. She agrees and turns, heartbroken. The Chords of Meaningfulness strike up as she walks away. Are Donovan and Leon waiting for her? How is she going to get home?

Next week:  Ben or Ricky?

Exchange of the Episode:

“What do you call a girl who is married to one guy and trying to date the father of her baby? They probably don’t have a word for that.”

“I stand by harlot.” Henry and Alice

What do you think of Ricky’s declaration? Do you hope they give Grace and Adrian better love interests? Will we see more of John Schneider and Josie Bisset now that they’ve patched things up? And who will Amy choose? 

Sunday, February 8, 2009

Phantom 2: Electric Bugaloo

I love The Phantom of the Opera. I even love most songs Andrew Lloyd Webber has composed. And as you all know by now, I love Broadway musicals. But I am starting to dread the sequel to the hit Broadway smash more and more. 

Phantom 2: Love Never Dies briefly ignited some hope from me when it was revealed that Webber would no longer be following the plot of the novel The Phantom of Manhattan, even though the show would still be set in Brooklyn. (The novel, by Frederick Forsythe, is meant as a sequel to the musical and completely changes the ending of the original novel). But I followed Broadway enough to know a few things: Lightning rarely strikes twice (which is a reason why I don't think Cats would ever enjoy a successful revival), sequels never do well (see Annie Warbucks, Bring Back Birdie and The Best Little Whorehouse Goes Public to name a few), and Andrew Lloyd Webber hasn't been as big a name on Broadway as years past. Woman in White didn't even last till the Tonys and Bombay Dreams struggled for the few years it was open. (Note: Webber produced Bombay Dreams, which was composed by A.R. Rahman, nominated for Slumdog Millionaire). 

The actual plot, though, of Phantom 2: Love Never Dies has been shrouded a bit. Nothing I had ever read went beyond the Phantom running into Christine some years after the ending the original story in Brooklyn. Playbill.com ran an article today where it was suggested that Sierra Boggess (The Little Mermaid) was tapped to play Christine in the sequel. It gave the summary as such: "In Love Never Dies, the disfigured Phantom — who released his beloved soprano and her love, Raoul, at the end of The Phantom of the Opera, and then disappeared in a flash — has been relocated from the Paris Opera to Brooklyn's Coney Island. Christine apparently has a son, and is unhappily married to a now dissipated Raoul."

I don't know about this story line. To me, it sounds more like something found on fanfiction.net written by someone more familiar with the musical/movie than the novel. It is common in the fandom to malign Raoul. I'll admit I am just as guilty when I was a young fanfiction writer and writing Phantom phics. It seems that with the release of the musical and subsequently the movie, people have forgotten who the hero of The Phantom of the Opera really is. It isn't Erik, the masked titled figure, but Raoul--the brave vicomte who fights for the love of his life. Erik is the villian. He's not some gothic version of Wuthering Height's Heathcliff. He's a man who is a genius and a sociopath. He built a torture chamber for sport and doesn't understand how to love without obsession, murder and ultimatums. Why can't Christine and Raoul be happy, fanfiction writers? Webber? 

Well, I guess I'll wait to see how the music turns out. And I'll probably go see it, just to see it. These days on Broadway, beggars can't be choosers. 

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Ricky v Amy v Ben v Grace v Adrian v Her Dad v...

Last week on Secret Life of the American Teenager: Ricky’s dad Bryan Callen made everyone uncomfortable. Ricky broke up with Grace to protect her but John Schneider was cool with Ricky’s past. Jack started to mentor Duncan while Amy learned her baby is a boy. And Bryan Callen was sent back to jail.

Grace is doodling in her notebook. She decides to call Adrian, telling her that Ricky broke it off with her. Adrian tells her that Bryan Callen went back to jail, covering the fact that Ricky is in bed with her. Grace is all happy to hear that she can go out with Ricky again but he isn’t. Adrian figures that Ricky thinks love=sex but he squashes that by saying he isn’t in love with Adrian but had sex with her. Grace calls and tries to make a date with Ricky. He shoots her down, saying he has a meeting with Amy about the baby. Adrian finally kicks him out of her bed for good, though Ricky doesn’t believe it. I hope Adrian sticks too it.

CREDITS!

Adrian tries to seduce Jack, but he turns her down. Says he’s hanging out with Duncan. Jack wonders if Amy and Ricky are getting back together, which is worrying Ben. Grace confirms it and walks off as Amy comes up. Ben asks her about the meeting and she says it’s been set for a few days. He storms off as Amy calls out his immaturity. Mr. Molina lets Ben into his office and asks about Amy and Ricky. Mr. Molina reminds Ben that the baby is Ricky and of Ben’s not!marriage to Amy. Ben asks Mr. Molina for an intervention. He turns it down and then starts unloading on Ben. He was a cop but the wife thought it interfered with their relationship.

Mr. Molina eventually agrees and it pisses off Amy. She storms off as Ricky tells Ben there is nothing to talk about it. He invites Ben to come to the meeting that night to be with Amy.

A phone rings and Adrian picks up. Ricky says he plans to be free after ten while Adrian reminds him he’s been kicked out of her bed. Adrian says a guy is coming over and Ricky gets jealous. He asks if it’s Jack but she reminds him of the mentoring. She opens the door to see someone she addresses as Max there. He tells her he’s there about her dad leaving his mom. Ouch. And Adrian will sleep with him, you can tell.

Ricky calls Grace, asking her for prayers. And then if he can come over. She says yes—she’ll make cookies. I feel so bad for her. Meanwhile, Jack is waiting for Duncan with Shauna. He’s late coming back from his job, bagging something. Turns out he has to work late so Jack hangs out with Shauna. He says “Entertain me” and she gets an Adrian-esque look in her eyes.

Ashley comes in as Amy goes through her closet. She wonders if her sister is dressing up for Ricky, but Amy insists she’s just trying to find something comfortable. Ashley warns her not to make the same mistake but Amy insists this is just to get Ricky’s permission to go through the adoption. Ashley tells her sister to stop feeling sorry for herself while Amy continues to say she is trying to be responsible. It gets so bad, Amy attacks her sister. They calm down.

Amy’s Dad asks Molly Ringwald why she’s all dressed up. She says she’s going out while Ricky is with Amy. Amy’s Dad isn’t too thrilled and says he’ll be out too. Molly doesn’t believe it. Amy’s Dad presses for more information and is surprised to hear Molly is meeting Rev. Stone. He storms out as Ashley comes down, praying her mother isn’t dressed up for Ricky. Ashley doesn’t support the adoption and Molly tells her to support it. Ben shows up and pleads with Amy to let him stay as Ricky comes. He gets to the point: No adoption. So Amy retorts: “Fine, then it’s yours.”

Atta girl!

Ricky wonders how he could take care of the baby, particularly since he won’t drop out of school. Ben asks Amy if she’s thought it through. Oh, wait, she was serious? She says no it was just an idea but she says it’s good as she and Ben could be normal teenagers. She leaves Ricky and Ben to argue it out. Back at Adrian’s, she talks to Max about her father. She calms his mother’s concerns saying her parents are thinking of getting back together. Adrian tries to come on to him while he continues to remind her that they are step-siblings. But it doesn’t last long as he kisses her. She tells him to work for it. Oh Adrian.

Amy’s Dad goes over a gay couple’s house for dinner. Amy’s Dad loves the food and praises the gays then checks to make sure “Leon” is out. He replies he is and after offering more food and a boxing match, Amy’s Dad wants to move in. Molly talks with Rev. Stone about some prospective parents that are right in his own church. He talks about an older couple who spent their youth traveling and are ready to settle down. The husband has tickets to seats on the third base line! He then talks about the Buckners who are young—27—and married in college. He was a professional wrestler. Molly can tell Rev. Stone isn’t 100% behind them. He confesses his promise to Ashley to counsel her parents. Molly insists she’s getting a divorce and Rev. Stone promises to help her find a couple.

Ricky and Ben argue over the baby. Ricky insists the burden of responsibility for the baby is on Amy as Ben correctly tries to remind him of his legal responsibility to the baby. Ricky asks if Ben will raise the baby but Ben bemoans their not!marriage. Ben argues for Amy because he considers her feelings despite the fact he showed up against her wishes. Ben admits to being jealous of Ricky, who responds he’s jealous of Ben. Ben has no real responsibility to the baby. Ricky then tells Ben that Amy invited him over to talk and out to coffee six months ago at band camp.

Amy comes down to find Ben just sitting there. Ben tells Amy that it’s something she has to decide with Ricky. He talks about Ricky and Amy’s bond through the baby and he has no right to decide anything about the baby. He maturely removes himself from the situation and gives Amy some room. He says he still wants to be with her, but he wants her to be honest with him. Amy is shaken as Ben leaves. Oh, the return of the Chords of Meaningfulness.

Ricky talks with Grace about the baby. She tries to be supportive. He’s excited that it’s a boy but still not excited about adoption. Grace asks if he’s addressing this in therapy. He replies he hasn’t been seeing Lauren’s Dad AKA Ernie Hudson as it is too much work. He says Grace has been helping him though he can’t see them married. Grace says she can and Ricky kisses her goodbye.

Adrian is all cuddled up with Max. Her father walks in, saying he promised to check up on her because her mother couldn’t reach it. Adrian tries to bluff that Ricky is hiding under the covers but Adrian’s Dad is smarter than that. He pulls the covers and is surprised to see his step-son under there. They promise nothing happened and Max was sent over by his mother to scope out the situation. Adrian’s Dad accurately tells her that she has a problem. They argue and he tells her to start respecting him. He storms out.

Duncan interrupts his mentor and his sister. He realizes they weren’t just “talking” and leaves them alone. Shauna tells Jack that Duncan just needs to get out more—he’s already a good kid. Jack says he’s attracted to Shauna and is a monogamous type of guy. Unfortunately, she has a boyfriend and was just having “fun” with a high school guy. He leaves.

Molly finds Ashley moping in the kitchen. She tells Molly about the fighting. Everyone is moping around the Jurgens household. Molly calls Ashley out on the wish to get her parents back together. She finally calls out Ashley’s attitude, saying she knows her daughter is in pain. She tells Ashley that the entire family is in pain—Molly and Amy’s Dad are divorcing and Amy is having a baby at 15. Ashley says she is hurting, but not as much as the rest of her family. “The three of you are idiots,” she says. Molly agrees, hugging her youngest.

Amy’s Dad is absolutely happy over his night with Leon and his boyfriend. They talk about their financial security and their desire to be parents. They ask Amy’s Dad if Amy will let them adopt the baby. Amy’s Dad is floored.

Grace receives a phone call…from Jack. He’s at her door. He tells her she is the only nice girl he knows. He tells her to not wear her heart on her sleeve because someone (Ricky) will tear it out and stomp on it. Grace starts to protest but Jack finally tells her that her boyfriend is sleeping with her best friend.

Amy’s Dad comes home and talks to Amy about letting Leon and his partner adopt the baby. Amy’s a little surprised as Amy’s Dad tells her they have to lead Molly to the idea. Meanwhile, Grace busts Adrian and Ricky (oh, Adrian) but the idiot tells Adrian that Ricky will come back to her once he works out his issues by sleeping with her. Amy calls Ricky and tells him to let the baby be adopted. She admitted to inviting him over to see if they could raise the baby together—as friends. But she realized she was wrong and the baby will be better adopted. She’s acting grown up and asks him to agree with her. He does.

And the Chords of Meaningfulness play us out.

And we’re back to the original PSA.

Next week: Grace and Adrian go at it. Ricky admits feelings for Amy, hugging her. And Amy confesses her love for someone. I think it’s bad news for Ben, Adrian and Grace.

Quote of the Episode:  

“Marriage sucks, huh?”—Mr. Molina