The Flash "Running To Stand Still" Arrow "Dark Waters" Supergirl "Hostile Takeover" Quick Reviews

I have just been so busy at work lately because of Star Wars (I work at a cinema) that I have no time to review these episodes individually. So here are some quick reviews and if I find that work keeps me too busy even after Star Wars it may have to always be like this.

The Flash Season Two: Running To Stand Still

The Weather Wizard returns to Central City and frees Captain Cold and the original Trickster from Iron Heights for a team up against the Flash meanwhile Joe and Iris get a surprise when Wally West (Keiynan Lonsdale) arrives at their home.

Highlights

• Return of Weather Wizard and the Trickster and their villain team up! These two where great villains last season and it was good to see them again, especially Mark FREAKING Hamill! Whenever he is on screen he is always the centre of attention with his over - the - top performance which is handled really well; he does it in a way that it doesn't feel annoying or out of place. Loved the fights scene between Weather Wizard and the Flash, the Weather Wizard's flying ability was awesome to see.
• Joe's subplot in handling the reveal that Wally West is his son because it was probably his best character arc and performance all season. We got some really heart - wrenching scenes with Joe and I'm glad we got a glimpse of Wally, who fans of the comics know plays a large role.
• The opening with Zoom attacking Wells came out of no where and it is going to be a nice twist with Wells being forced to help Zoom now. I bet all the characters are going to turn on him when they find out which will be a shame because he isn't evil he just hasn't got a choice.

Let - Downs

• Captain Cold was completely wasted probably because they want to save him for LOT, this was annoying because I really would have liked him to have been a part of the conflict. I'll say again I really hope that they don't play Cold as too much of a hero because I want him to eventually be the leader of the Rouges.
• Patty's subplot with Weather Wizard was predictable and boring because I knew how it was going to play out from the beginning. Didn't like how far she was going to go for her revenge (like trapping the Flash), I felt her conflict with Weather Wizard was just forced in the plot and I bet it will never come up or play any importance again.

Overall an awesome Christmas themed episode in which Weather Wizard and the Trickster completely stole the show

SCORE: 8/10

Arrow Season Four: Dark Waters

Things turn even more brutal when Damien steps up his attacks on the city and even targets Oliver at his mayoral party.

Highlights

• Damien stole it because he was the centre of attention this episode; we got to see him interact with other HIVE members, we saw a glimpse of his family and he lost his cool and suffered his first defeat. The guy just grabs your attention every time he is on screen like when he attacked the Christmas party or showed Oliver his gas chamber. His fight with Malcolm was a standout (glad it was him to beat Damien first) and we saw more of his power like his force choke and possibly a resurrection spell?
• The Malcolm and Laurel team up was really good because with their shared past over Sara's death these two characters have a nice chemistry going on. They kicked ass with their assault on HIVE and it was cool to see more Canary Cry and Malcolm dressed as the Green Arrow. Also Quentin's reaction and interactions with Malcolm where great as well and I do like his pairing with Donna.
• Diggle's interactions with his brother where good because this defiantly gives his character more to work with and a unique arc that is more his own.
• The ending left us on such a cliff hanger that I really want to see what happens next. Could Felicity be dead? It would be a nice twist if she did (don't like her pairing with Oliver) but I guess she won't because the people behind the show probably don't have the balls to anger the OliverxFelicity fans.

Let - Downs

• The Flashbacks where a disappointment because they teased a shark yet we didn't get to see it fight Oliver. Plus it didn't feel like anything really major happened and it looks like Oliver's time as a spy in the Baron's camp is over so soon. 

Overall a really dark mid season finale with a major cliff hanger for year also thought I'd say this is more of an annoyance than a let down but I hated Felicity trying to title every "Holiday" instead of Christmas. It is freaking Christmas time, I have always hated people who don't call it such and I have no idea why she playing the Jewish thing so much, it annoyed me that she was pushing it on everything.

SCORE: 8/10

Supergirl Season One: Hostile Takeover

Astra returns to challenge Supergirl and her beliefs about her mother meanwhile Cat may be removed as CEO of CatCo when a hacker exposes her private emails.

Highlights

• The fights scenes this episode where something really amazing and such a great way to end the mid season. The flying fight between Supergirl and Astra was done so well with them flying through buildings and causing so much havoc. Then there was the attack on Lord Industries and it was awesome seeing so much Krytonians fighting at once and they brought two others aliens as well. Maxwell and Henshaw really shined as well with Maxwell trying to take them on with his special gun and Henshaw displaying some of his powers.
• Henshaw's line " My telepathy doesn't work on Krytonians, which Superman finds hilarious" is probably the best line I've heard all season lol.
• Cat had such great development this episode with her warming up more to Kara, her willingness to sacrifice herself for the greater good and her past about a son she gave up when she was younger. Then of course there was her working out Supergirl's identity which really showed her intelligence and shrewdness.
• I like that we got to know more about Astra, her attempts to discredit Alura, the Flashbacks and the reveal that she has a husband however......

Let - Downs

•  ........Astra herself just isn't that much of a compelling villain. She doesn't really stand out to much in opinion and I didn't like her cliché wanting to be caught plot. This isn't too much of a let - down because I feel that she can be a really good character in the future.
• While I liked Kara, James and Winn working together to bring down Dirk I didn't like James and Winn butting heads over Kara and the typical becoming friends at the end.

Overall my favourite episode of the season so far with some great character development and action scenes.

SCORE: 8/10 


The great screenshots of these episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;





http://screencapped.net/

The Flash Season Two: Legends Of Today

Vandal Savage (Casper Crump) and Hawkman (Falk Hentschel) both set their sights on Kendra for their own purposes so Team Flash asks Team Arrow for help meanwhile Wells develops a serum that could improve Barry's speed.

I have been so looking forward to these crossover episodes, especially since we have had a week break from Arrow and Flash and so far it did not disappoint. You know what is the best part of a crossover? watching the interactions between Team Flash and Team Arrow when they have to work together. Like the rivalry between Felicity and Cisco, the reactions of Diggle has he tries to wrap his head around the Meta Humans in Central City and easily Barry and Oliver rely on each other which makes you think their shows have always been combined. It is nice to see that the cast of both of these shows feels so comfortable around each other that these crossovers don't feel forced at all. Now on to the events and we have got three new additions to the cast; Kendra (who is now properly Hawkgirl) Hawkman and Vandal Savage and this was a awesome episode for the debut of all three. First off Casper Crump as Savage was just really, really good; he brought a lot of threatening charisma to the character and I enjoyed watching his attacks on Team Flash and Arrow. Again they are doing a really good job of introducing magic now, first with Damien and now with Savage who now brings immortally which is a real step up. I also liked that his story tied in so closely with Hawkgirl and Hawkman's plot and that there is another praise; I was really impressed with the Hawkgirl/Hawkman subplot because it felt like it was ripped right out of the comics, they just followed it so closely! Hawkgirl was the bigger standout because we got to see her realising her true self and gaining her wings and we really got to see struggling with that in every scene. Hawkman kind of felt shoved in out of no where for the plot but I am not going to mark that down because he still made a really impressive debut, Falk Hentschel did an awesome job and as I already said his plot with Hawkgirl was a standout.

As for everything else the fight scenes in this episode where truly damn awesome!! Everyone one of them where just so great like Green Arrow and Flash vs. Hawkman (them two fighting a flying enemy was great) and their fight against Savage for the staff of Horus, loved that fight because the effects where just so cool! A let down however was the fact that Malcolm was in this episode (his first crossover one!) and we didn't get to see him fight at all which was a real shame. Since this was an immortal being they where facing I thought this would be defiantly be more up the League's street but they weren't as involved as they should have been. Another let down was the plot involving Well's serum for Barry; it was nice to see they haven't forgotten about Zoom even in the crossover and it was good seeing Jay again but it really was just a distraction from the main plot. I just got annoyed because again if Patty wasn't just kept in the dark about everything her shooting Wells could have been avoided and Joe didn't even bother to tell her with this perfect opportunity again. Finally this isn't a let down I just wanted to say I enjoyed that Damien got a little role at the beginning with his HIVE forces vs. Team Arrow, and useful new trick arrow too.

Overall a great part one for the crossover over which perfectly brought the Hawkgirl/Hawkman plot from the comics to live action.

SCORE: 8/10

Highlights: Team Flash and Team Arrow working together
                   Awesome fight scenes
                   debut of Savage and Hawkgirl/Hawkman plot

Let - Downs: Malcolm and the League should have played a bigger part
                      Didn't car much for the serum subplot

Again sorry that there is no images for this episode but screencapped is undergoing maintenance.        

The Flash Season Two: Gorilla Warfare

As Barry deals with the aftermath of fighting Zoom, Gorilla Grodd returns to Central City with a dangerous plan in mind.

 

Kneel before Grodd!! I really enjoyed having Grodd back on the Flash, especially since he has returned so early this season. Like back in Season One the guys behind the effects just deserve a lot of praise for how real they made Grodd on a TV show, he doesn't look fake at all. Overall Grodd may have served as just a distraction from Zoom but I still loved his return and his storyline this episode. It was awesome seeing him use his mind control powers once again, his voice fits him so well and I liked that he was shown with more sympathy this time. This is because unlike the comics this Grodd is still young and really is just alone in the world and wants to be with more like him; so the idea to send him to a gorilla colony on Earth 2 (after a cool fight) was the next best thing. However I think this wasn't such a smart idea for Team Flash because in the comics Grodd is the leader of a whole country of apes that war with humans so I'm guessing this Grodd will take it over and wreck havoc again soon. Two other characters stood out in this storyline and the first being Caitlin because I just really like her connection with Grodd and that she wanted to help him more than anything else. I also liked the way she risked herself in the end to get Grodd into the transport circle because I think I have said before that while Caitlin is a good character for Season One she is mostly felt she is mostly there for the sake of it. The other standout was Wells and again so much praise goes to Tom Cavanagh because the guy is the best actor on the Flash because of how in this episode he had to act like his Earth 1 counterpart even though he isn't him, get it? I mean the way he posed as the Reverse Flash with Grodd he was so good that I think Caitlin and Cisco thought he double crossed them by the look on their faces. Also it was great to see the Reverse Flash costume once again and hear the vibrating music that usually accompanies it and it was cool at the end that Barry wants to duplicate the ring technology so hopefully soon he'll get his own like in the comics.    

 

As for everything else a real let down was Barry's subplot because after the shocking "I can't feel my legs" reveal last episode they decided to completely skip that! I know he has super healing but that was a real disappointment because I didn't like Barry's doubts holding him back dilemma that much after that. I know Barry suffered a big defeat from Zoom but I just didn't buy that he couldn't run because of it since in end I knew all he had to do was have faith in himself again; it was a typical outcome for it but trying to regain his legs again because they couldn't heal for some reason, now that would have been more different and interesting. However the good thing about this subplot was the return on Henry because it is nice to know they aren't just going to leave him out of the show now that he is free from jail. What was really good about it was the speech that Henry gave to Barry when comparing Barry's predicament to his arrest; now that was a really great emotional scene, really nicely done. Now as for the other let down of the episode I am just getting really annoyed now that Patty is being left in the dark from Barry and Joe. I am just not enjoying their excuses now and I feel that the episodes just waste time with the effort they are making to keeping the truth from her. I know she kind of have to earn the right to be on Team Flash but I thought the people behind Arrow and Flash said they don't care that all the main cast from both shows know the identities of the heroes anymore so why is it taking so long for Patty? Finally while I still am not bothered by the relationship between Cisco and Kendra, because Hawkman is coming soon, it was a least some light hearted moments for Cisco and it was cool seeing flashes of Kendra as Hawkgirl.     

 

Overall a great return for Grodd, though not as good as last episode it was still a nice one to have just before the big crossover ones between the Arrow and Flash.

 

SCORE: 7/10

 

Highlights: GRODD!

                   Caitlin and Wells where the biggest standouts

                   Henry was really great in this as well

 

Let - Downs: Barry's subplot was a disappointment

                      Getting annoyed now with Patty constantly in the dark 

 

Sorry for lack of screenshots but Screencapped has yet to upload this episode.

The Flash Season Two: Enter Zoom

"Now I am the best"

Team Flash comes up with a plan to have Earth One Linda Park pose as Dr Light from Earth Two so they can trick and capture Zoom.

 

Wow the last part of this episode was one of the most epic endings for a Flash episode and was such a strong debut for Season Two's main villain. You know I have read comments before this episode on the internet that Zoom will just be another Reverse Flash but after this I think people will see Zoom as his own villain. First off his design his just so freaking great; I said when we had the glimpse of him last episode that he seems more of a monster than human and it seems Team Flash agrees from their comments. The look of his mouth, the way his fingers are like claws and his truly terrifying voice really makes Zoom seem like his out of a nightmare; like the way he snuck up on Linda, now that kind of made me jump lol! Then there was the fight itself which was so great and had quite a few WTF moments like when Zoom caught a bolt of lightning! Then what really surprised me was the really epic final scenes when Zoom parades the broken Flash in front of the news and police; it was cool to see him taunt the city and catch all of those bullets. This again makes him seem really different than Reverse Flash because Zoom wants people to know that he is the best speedster out there, he doesn't care about staying in the shadows that much. The other part of this subplot which involved Dr Light was really good as well because as I mentioned last review this gives Linda a better role than being neglected last season. That training montage for example was so funny (props to Cisco for those funny cardboard cut outs) and her fake fight with Flash was good to see because I would have been annoyed if Linda just put on the outfit and just became Dr Light already. I am also glad that the Earth Two Dr Light escaped because maybe we'll see her in a future episode but what is more important is that there is a naked Linda running around in Earth One.......lucky sods.

 

NOOO FLASH!........you think Zoom bought that?

As for everything else I am again liking the growing relationship between Barry and Patty because it just feels so real; like how Barry came to her near the end when he was feeling down about not captured Zoom and still thinking about not saving his mother, it was a really good moment. I am also again liking the new Wells because we got more insight into his character and he really did a good job of showing his desperation for capturing Zoom because of his daughter. I noticed she was called Jessie Quick and for those who don't know she is a speedster in the comics, be interesting if that happens in the series but I hope they don't cram it into this season. I also noticed the news report on Green Arrow in Earth Two and how that it is Robert Queen! Those who have read Flashpoint know this is similar in the way that Thomas Wayne became Batman in an alternate reality because Bruce died instead, I really hope to see this develop more in a future season. However I have got to say that I am getting really, really annoyed that Team Flash (especially Joe) just can't realize that this is different Harrison Wells! It is getting old now that they are still comparing him to the Reverse Flash when he isn't the Reverse Flash, heck don't they even remember that Earth One Wells wasn't the Reverse Flash either that it was Eobard Thawne in disguise? Joe of course has been a major disappointment and annoyance this season and I get ticked off with everything he does; like I am surprised Patty isn't way more angry with Joe's attitude towards her and I sick of him constantly trying tell Barry what is good for him (like the scenes in the corridor and elevator). When I saw them I just kept thinking "Barry take freaking charge and tell him to shut up!" but no he just always has to follow Joe's advice.

 

WTF

Overall Zoom made this episode and has proven himself to be a worthy villain to the Flash this season!

 

SCORE: 8/10

 

Highlights: Zoom!

                   Linda's training as Dr Light

                   Good moments with Patty and Wells

 

 Let - Downs: Earth Two Wells constantly being compared to Reverse Flash

                       Joe is really ticking me off

 

The great screenshots of these episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;





http://screencapped.net/

The Strain Season Two: Fallen Light

Abraham and Palmer both prepare for the bidding war for the Occido Lumen meanwhile Gus and Angel recruitment some more help from the local prison.

I admit for an episode that is before the finale this one didn't have as much impact as I thought it would but I will say what I first liked about it. Firstly the best subplot in this episode was the one involving Councilwoman Feraldo and if I haven't said so before she is defiantly one of my favourite characters on the Strain and I hope she sticks around for a long time. She had some strong scenes where she butted heads with the mayor because she pissed off the rich of NY while having the support of the cops. In everyone of her scenes she makes me completely join her side of things with her dialogue and the way she takes action; like how she argues that it is her cops on the line fighting the vampires while the rich can't fork over a bit of tax. Palmer may think that he can manipulate her (which is why he seems to be supporting her) but no, no I thought, Palmer isn't going to control her so easily lol. The other best subplot was the one with Gus and Angel where they liberated the prisoners to join in Quinlan's army and gave us some tense action scenes which where the only ones in this episode. It is cool seeing Gus take charge because he actually seems like a capable leader but it was really awesome seeing Angel so badass when he shot one of the rouge prisoners at the end. With the way the episode ended we'll probably see them fight Abraham's group first before the Master and wouldn't it be really cool to see Abraham vs. Angel? Speaking of Abraham his alliance with the Ancients is an interesting gamble but I just want someone to get the freaking Occido Lumen already so we can see how important it is!

As for everything else this episode sees Nikki leaving NY and I hope this is the last time we will see her because I have hated her since she first came back. They never even bothered to make her likable or even fleshed out her character in any way; the only thing she has done is ruin Dutch's character for me. This better be the end of this romantic triangle for good because I am sick of watching Dutch obsess over Nikki when they haven't made us care about it and I want Fet back to his old self rather than brooding over his relationship with Dutch. Another disappointment is they fact that Coco has completely gotten over how she was healed and has fully embraced what she is a part of now with out us seeing a single second of it! What a waste of an opportunity, I wanted to see her reaction to the existence of vampires and how the hell did Palmer convince her to join him!? While that was a shame I liked the mention that Palmer and Coco need more of the White to survive because while this is some good new info I seriously doubt Palmer wants to have that threat constantly dangled in front of him. We might see him (maybe not in the finale but next season) make some moves against Eichorst or even the Master to get more White or be turned fully into a vampire. Finally the scenes with Eph, Nora and Zach where good like Zach having a nice emotional moment on the phone with his grandparents and the fact Eph finally may have found a safe haven for him. However it is the Flashbacks that really stood out because this really developed the relationship between Eph and Nora a bit more which has been neglected this season and it was really nice seeing Sean Astin as Jim once again.

Overall this episode did have some good moments but it really failed to build excitement for the finale which usually is the job of the one before last.

SCORE: 6/10

Highlights: Feraldo steals the episode
                   Prison breakout with Gus and Angel
                   Flashbacks

Let - Downs: Dutch and Nikki subplot
                      Coco accepting things already?
                      Feels like a normal episode rather than build excitement for the finale

The Flash Season Two: The Darkness And The Light

A new take on Dr Light

Team Flash must deal with the arrival of two more newcomers from Earth 2; Harrison Wells and Dr Light, the latter sent by Zoom to deal with the Flash.

Does Tom Cavanagh knows how to steal the show or what!? It is a testament to his great acting skills that he can play a character who is the same yet different to who he was in Season One. I will first get out of the way with something I didn't like straight away in the episode and that was the beginning because what has happened to King Shark and Barry first reaction to Wells was completely glossed over. We have no idea what happened to King Shark, where they put him or if the CPD where even notified. Then there is the fact that the episode opens up with Barry having brought Wells to STAR labs yet we never saw Barry's initial reaction to seeing him again or whether he asked him any questions? Luckily this was overshadowed by the great return of Wells and I loved his interactions with the other characters and the reactions to seeing him. Like the fact that this Wells seems to be a lot more aggressive and ill mannered than the other one, having no problem speaking his mind or anger to other characters like Cisco or Jay. It was cool to see that Cisco, after admiring Wells so much last season, butts heads with him in every scene and is so annoyed with him that he calls him Harry lol. It was also cool to see him and Jay share such mistrust for each other; Jay not trusting Wells because of him profiting from the Meta Humans in Earth 2 (great to see some scenes with it) and Wells not trusting Jay because of how he has failed to stop Zoom and then having a right punch up with him!. Seems like Wells will still be playing a mentor role but the fact he also created the Meta Humans in Earth 2 makes me think he has a few secrets. One more thing though that bothered me with this subplot was the scenes with Joe like him opening fire on Wells straight away I just thought "what a prick" couldn't he be bothered to hear Team Flash's explanation and the fact he gave Iris a gun just really bothers me too.

What I badass costume!

As for the rest of the episode I really liked the character of Dr Light because besides being a new female Meta Human with cool powers it gives Linda Park a great twist to her character (she was underused last season). I enjoyed seeing her powers and costume a lot and her fights with the Flash because we got to see Barry use those cool speed mirages! What was also interesting about her character was that she wasn't really bad like Atom Smasher and Sand Demon, even Jay said she could be reasoned with, but it is her fear of Zoom that made her desperate. That is what I like about Zoom, he hasn't been in it yet much but his power and presence is instilling so much fear in people; for example we got some great scenes with Jay who explained his crippling fear of Zoom, this gave us a better insight into his character. Of course I am also loving the look of Zoom at the end with Wells kidnapped daughter; they did a truly awesome job of making his costume, his mask, look pure evil and again with help from the great voice of Tony Todd. A few more things to talk about is that I thought Barry's date with Patty was so well done and brought a lot of good humour in the episode with Cisco helping a blind Barry as his wingman. As I have said before Barry with Patty is way better than him with Iris because they have so much chemistry together and are a cute couple. Finally I am glad Cisco's powers are out in the open now and that he took the name Vibe and that we can look forward to him developing his powers more. I also liked the cameo with Kendra Sanders AKA Hawkgirl (Ciara Renee) and we got some good humour with her and Cisco but I'm not bothered about a relationship with Cisco because she is going on LOT soon with Hawkman and I am a Lisa and Cisco fan anyway.

"Soz but I don't do free interviews"

Overall this was the great first part of a two episode arc and did a good job of bringing Tom Cavanagh back as a regular and gave us more on Zoom. Oh yeah thought I'd add I noticed the Aquaman reference when Jay mentioned Atlantis and that was really cool!

SCORE: 8/10

Highlights: Return on Wells/Great new twist for Linda Park as Dr Light
                   More on Zoom
                   Great mixture of light humour that fit in well with the episode

Let - Downs: Glossed over fate of King Shark and Barry's first meeting Wells
                      Joe bothered me a lot

The great screenshots of these episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;





http://screencapped.net/

The Strain Season Two: Dead End

Eph, Fet and Nora try to locate and rescue Dutch before it is too late meanwhile Gus and Angel work to get the Guptas out of NY.

You know I thought there where going to be bigger plans for Dutch, maybe something involving Palmer, but I guess she was just going to be Eichorst's dinner. Parts of this episode where showing Eichorst torture Dutch but more in the psychological sense rather than the physical; they did a really good job of showing how much terror Eichorst was instilling in her, I guess he likes to play with his food before he eats it. Now I have a shrewd idea what Eichorst was planning to do with his tongue when he asked Dutch to take off her jeans and most of them involved hentai, tentacle stuff lol. We also got a really good chase scene between the two and again does a good job of showing Dutch is really afraid and just wants to get away; either through the looks of horror on her face to the constant dead ends. However a real highlight in their scenes where the Flashbacks to Eichorst's past as a salesman to a Nazi officer, it's been too long since we have had a Flashback involving his days as a human. It is nice seeing how Eichorst used to be just a humble salesman with barely any self - confidence to a Nazi who betrayed a girl he used to have feelings for though she was a Jew; you can tell he regretted that she was killed but that was when the last of his humanity went away and he became the hardened Nazi we saw in Season One Flashbacks. Now does this excuse what Eichorst is, no, because he is pure evil in the present day now but these gave us an understanding of how he became what he is now. The let down however was that the confrontation between Eichorst and Eph's group just ended in him fleeing once again, we didn't get to see even a little bit of a punch up.

A weak subplot this episode was Abraham's involving the Occido Lumen because after the cliff hanger last week the owner just turned out to be an ass who is only interested in money. Sure you can really tell Abraham's desperation at getting the book as he tried to convince the owner how important it is but at this point I just want him to get the book already so we can find out what all the fuss is about. I was surprised that there was no Coco and Palmer subplot this episode but it was made up with Gus and Angel back because I really like the team up with those two. Gus is shown as a more tragic character now, finding a woman he is in love with and a family he wants to protect but has to leave them now. I'm glad that he got the Guptas out of NY because it was a nice relief for Gus knowing he did this right rather than them being killed in an attack and it is just another thing he wants revenge for. I am also glad that Angel has decided to fight with Gus because as I said I like these to character together since Angel has now really come to trust Gus over the course of this season. Plus Angel does really have some guts, volunteering to stay in a warzone to kick some ass when he could have drove to safety!

Overall a good episode and since we are only two episodes away from the end of the season I am expecting things to pick up a lot now.

SCORE: 7/10

Highlights: Dutch's torture and escaping
                   Eichorst Flashbacks
                   Gus and Angel subplot

Let - Downs: Could have had a better fight between Eichorst and Eph's group
                      Abraham's subplot was disappointing     

The Flash Season Two: The Fury Of Firestorm

"See there's nothing to being a hero"

Team Flash must find another person to share the Firestorm Matrix with Stein before it is too late and the solution might lie with a young mechanic Jefferson "Jax" Jackson (Franz Drameh).

It looks like the Nuclear Man gets the spotlight again with the finding of the new half of the Firestorm Matrix. Now those who have read the comics know that it is Jason Roush who teams up with Stein after the death of Ronnie but since they didn't want to use the actor back in Season One they decided to create a new character which I think was handled really well. I was really impressed with the character Jax, he was just a really likeable person who fitted in well with the whole Firestorm storyline. The Flashback at the beginning already established him as a hardworking, well liked football player who is willing to save people and gave him a kind of tragic backstory in that he lost his dreams to the explosion. I also liked his struggle throughout the episode of whether or not he should join with Stein because it would have been rushed if he just jumped in straight away. I also liked that there was another candidate for the Firestorm Matrix, Henry Hewitt (Demore Barnes), and the effects of his powers and the final fight with Firestorm was really cool (and that he is a really old Firestorm villain from the comics). However I feel like they didn't develop him well as a villain because he went from jealous scientist to crazy villain in a matter of only a few scenes. Plus they hastily gave him a police record to almost reinforce that he is the bad guy, all in all it just felt rushed with him.

Is he good or evil?

As for everything else the Francine subplot was handled a lot more better mainly because more screen time was given over to it. Maybe the illness would be a bit more at home in a soap opera, maybe a tragic death this season would be wasted on her and I think in the end it is going to be Iris's excuse to forgive her mother but still the rest was handled good. Iris did shine a lot in this because I am glad she didn't just forgive her mother now, she is taking it a lot more serious than I thought she would and nice change to her confront Francine about all the horrible stuff she has done. Then of course there is the reveal that she has a son which is obvious to a comic fan that he is going to be Wally West and since Iris knows I hope she tries to find out more about him instead of forgetting about it. Plus I hope Wally West does turn out to be Joe's son because besides from wanting to see how he would handle the news I think it would makes things less awkward. Finally the best part of the episode was the biggest WTF moment all season and that is the introduction of freaking KING SHARK!! Again I praise the effects crew on Flash because they once again have done a great job with a completely CGI creature on a TV series budget and he looked so awesome. I also liked the build up to his character like Patty and Barry discussing King Shark's teeth (again love those two together) and him being taken out by Wells from Earth 2. Can't wait to see how all of Team Flash will react to Wells and I really, really, really hope King Shark returns in the future because they just have to, all of the Flash fans are going crazy on the internet over this one scene!

So freaking awesome!

Overall a great story for the Firestorm Matrix and intro for Jax and for having one of the best WTF moments and endings in all of Flash and Arrow.

SCORE: 7/10

Highlights: Intro of Jax/The Firestorm storyline
                   Iris was great in her subplot
                   KING SHARK!!!!

Let - Downs: Villain was underdeveloped
                       Didn't like the illness being thrown in there

 
The great screenshots of these episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;





http://screencapped.net/

The Strain Season Two: The Assassin

Eph and Dutch try to assassinate Palmer meanwhile Abraham, Fet and Nora continue the search for the Occido Lumen.

This is the episode Eph finally enacts his plan to kill Palmer after promising to do it a few episodes ago and I admit I thought we wouldn't get it until the finale. Eph and Dutch's subplot in this episode was the best one because firstly besides from a few conversations these two characters haven't really teamed up on a mission yet so it was nice to see that. It was funny how it first started off light-hearted with Dutch trying to make conversation about relationships and sex while they are staking out Palmer's office. Then they moved to the rooftop and that was a really intense moment; how Eph kept looking at his watch, his frustration at not getting a clear shot and Dutch making sure he saves the shot for the right moment. Then of course it was a big WTF moment when he accidently shot Coco instead! This episode I think is showing us that deep down Palmer still has some of his humanity left because of how he literally begged Coco to come back and the moments he stayed at her bedside, perhaps he is realizing he can't split his loyalties between Coco and the Master. It was predicable that the Master saved Coco and I am curious to see how she will react to now knowing what Palmer is really involved in but I wonder if it would have been better if she died? Think about it Eph will have to live with the guilt that his hatred and vengeance against Palmer cost an innocent woman her life and Palmer may go over the deep end and try some big, massive revenge scheme himself. Also thought I'd say the scene in the police station with those two confrontation each other was so well done; you can really feel the hatred these two have for each other in their dialogue.

As for everything else I am glad we got to continue more with Abraham's obsession with the Occido Lumen, he must really think it is the key to winning the war. We got some good vampire slaying from this group during their search as well as at the police station to save Eph and then Abraham getting knocked out by an unknown, I wonder if he will be dragged away some place or left there? Finally once again Feraldo is such a great character with how she is treating the upper class citizens of New York. You can tell the mayor has forced her to clear out their streets but she decides to give them a big F - U by making them pay for her services. I like this human conflict between her and the mayor and the upper class and I am really interesting in seeing how this plays out in the next episodes. Now a big let down however was something that wasn't in this episode this week and that was a subplot involving Gus and Quinlan. They weren't in last week's episode which I let slide because it was mostly focusing on Red Hook but I was really expecting them to least have a bit of screen time, especially since Quinlan has been a scene stealer ever since he was first introduced.

Overall a great episode which feature a strong Eph and Dutch subplot and with Dutch captured I wonder if we'll see a big raid on Palmer's headquarters soon? Also why did they get rid of the new opening? It was so much better!

SCORE: 8/10

Highlights: Eph and Dutch
                   Palmer and Coco
                   The scenes with Feraldo

Let - Downs: No Gus and Quinlan
                      Maybe it would have had more impact if Coco died?

The Flash Season Two: Family of Rogues

"You think your family is messed up Barry?"

Barry forms and uneasy alliance with Lisa when her brother Captain Cold is kidnapped by their father Lewis Snart (Michael Ironside) meanwhile Joe struggles with a hard decision.

Now this episode was completely owned by Whentworth Miller, I mean he has always been great as Captain Cold but he really stood out in this. First off we actually got a break from the Zoom storyline and instead it focuses on the Cold Family which I was glad for because I wanted to know more about them and this defiantly adds a lot more depth to Cold and Lisa. It is good to see Cold still staying to his Code in the fact that he is a criminal but there are lines he won't cross and there are things he cares about like Lisa which their dad took full advantage of. Always great to see Ironside because he is a great actor and he did a really good job of being this criminal even Cold thinks is evil like planting a bomb in his own daughter's neck. His scenes where he exploded the bomb in his henchmen's head and then shot Barry where really menacing and he had quite the brutal death at the hand of this own son. Lisa really stole the scenes she was in as well; she really humanizes herself and Cold, we got to see more vulnerable sides to them. Plus I am really liking the chemistry between her and Cisco; it is hard to tell if Lisa is being genuine but it is fun to see Cisco just can't help himself in caring for her, this is a relationship in Flash I don't mind seeing developed even more. Barry was also a great addition to the Cold plot because I just really liked him helping out in a heist and I like how Cold and Barry have this mutual respect for one another e.g. Barry having hope Cold can be a better person. Thought I's just say that I know Cold does help the heroes in the comics when it suits him and he will in live action soon because of Legends of Tomorrow but I do hope he stays as a villain overall because I do really like him more as one of the Flash's biggest nemesis.

If his face turned into a skull then he would have been Deathstorm

As for everything else it is great that Jay has decided to stay and remain a member of the main cast because despite losing his speed he is still a great addition (though I would really like him to regain it soon). However while I do like the interactions between him and Caitlin I really hope that that they don't try to build a romantic subplot with them because it just doesn't feel right to me and you know not everyone has to get together in this show! But one that does defiantly seem to work is between Barry and Patty because first off they are together sometimes in the comics (like New 52) so I am more used to this but also like Cisco and Lisa I just love the scenes these two are in together, they just seem to compliment each other really well. Then there is the Joe and Francine subplot and while this was good and quite the shock that Joe lied it just feels too similar to a Lance Family drama from Arrow. Maybe if more screen time was somehow given over to it or if the payoff was better it could have worked more e.g. Iris just seems to get over the shock so quickly and Joe mentions she has met her mother off screen. Finally at the end we see that Stein's condition is getting worse because of the blue flames which leads me to two possibilities; first off Deathstorm could be coming but that seems unlikely this early in the series or more likely Stein needs a second to control to Firestorm Matrix now that Ronnie is gone.

Get in there Cisco!

Overall the best episode of the season so far because we got more insight into the Cold Family and I am glad the Wells from Earth 2 has arrived now!

SCORE: 8/10

Highlights: Cold Family episode

                   Interactions between Lisa and Cisco

                   Barry was really great in this episode

Let - Downs: I hope they aren't trying to get Caitlin together with Jay

                      The Joe/Francine subplot could have been better

The great screenshots of these episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;





http://screencapped.net/

The Strain Season Two: The Battle For Red Hook

After failing to capture Zach, Kelly and Eichorst launch an attack on the safe zone of Red Hook which is protected by Councilwoman Feraldo's forces.

Talk about having one heck of a great showdown where we finally get to see a massive group of Strigoi take on a massive group of Humans and in my opinion it did not disappoint. Before getting into the episode I first got to say that the new opening is so damn cool! It looked like pages right out of the comic book and gave us something really different than just the bloody five second opening we have had so far, props to whoever thought this one up. On to the episode the team up between Kelly and Eichorst continues to be really great and I enjoy their scenes together; like the first one where Kelly opens up to Eichorst about her failure and feelings and Eichorst consoling her (plus fuelling her anger towards Nora), it's almost like she is his protégé. Then there was their plan on bringing an army of Strigoi into Red Hook which gave us one of the best action moments in The Strain so far but I will go into this more in a bit. I want to talk first about Fet, Zach and Nora going to the power station to turn back on the power and it made for a really creepy atmosphere with the darkness and the bodies lying around. Kelly showing up was great as well because she had a great fight with Fet such as the part where she took his gun and then trying to infect him with worms from her wounds. As for Eichorst I admit his showdown with Abraham wasn't as epic as the build up for it was implying but it still made for a good team up between him and Eph.

As for the battle of Red Hook it was just so damn impressive and really created the feeling of hopelessness with the lack of personnel to the power outage. This really was Feraldo's episode to shine because she really took charge and brought all of Red Hook together in this massive clash. I mean she had to deal with a lot form the mayor who only wants her to save the rich who then abandons her and dealing with a quick lack of confidence when seeing the numbers they have to battle. Her Captain of her forces (Frank I think his name was and has been in a few previous eps) was great in this as well like the moral talk he gave her and defending the gates. Feraldo then got the citizens of Red Hook together and we saw some great fighting scenes between them and the Strigoi. I also liked the ending as well at daybreak when the main characters got back together, I have read some people's comments saying it was cheesy but I liked it and gave a sense of hope with all the doom and gloom there have been lately. Finally the only thing I didn't like was the Dutch and Nikki subplot because I just don't freaking care about it! I don't care about their damn arguments and I don't care what Nikki has been up to; I hate her character and she has just been making everything awkward since she reappeared. Plus I was right in thinking this subplot was similar to Barbara's on Gotham because Dutch is now all like "I like Fet but I used to be a lesbian so I'll sleep with my ex". I mean are we supposed to care these two are back together? Well I sure don't it just makes me hate Dutch's character now.

Overall a near perfect episode I just wish that instead of a stupid subplot with Dutch and Nikki we could have had one with Gus or Palmer.

SCORE: 9/10

Highlights: The battle of Red Hook
                   I great episode for Feraldo
                   Kelly and Eichorst
                   The new intro

Let - Downs: The Dutch and Nikki subplot

Bleach Review: The Theatre Suicide Scene 2

"Bet you weren't expecting this?"

Ichigo runs into Askin but as the two begin to fight they feel the chill of Shunsui's reiatsu as he activates his Bankai.

The chapter we have all been waiting for but before I get into that I want to first talk about the unexpected appearance of Askin and Ichigo. You know Askin continues to be one of my favourite characters just based on his personality alone; the funny reveal that he hasn't even fought Grimmjow and just ran away from him, even admitting that he is the type to run than fight even though he is supposed to be an Elite Sternritter lol. Now I don't think for a second that Grimmjow has been defeated and we won't see him again because he has been hyped up for so long and it would be a waste of his character who has been underused so far. Since Gerard is taking on multiple opponents at once I guess Askin can probably do the same against Ichigo and Grimmjow which would make for an awesome team up. We also get some shots of Chad, Ganju and Orihime but I don't really care at this point because they have just been completely useless this entire arc and I don't know who they can fight since there is not enough Sternritter to go round. However the fight between Askin and Ichigo was cut short went they both felt a very dark and chilling reiatsu coming from Shunsui's Bankai.



Askin continues to be such a great character

This was a great introduction to his Bankai and really mirrors his dark personally quite well; everything from the change of atmosphere to the moves themselves. It kind of remind me of Yamamoto's Banaki which moves was divided into North, West, South, East but Shunsui's is First Dan, Second and Third. The moves are pretty twisted such as the first one where each opponent suffer from the same wounds, the poisoning of Lille and then trapping them both in a cube of water until one of them dies. Plus I was right in thinking that these moves are like a play because off the story Shunsui is saying while Lille feels the effects. It was all very great however I feel like we went through them all really fast and it left me wanting more because the first thing I thought after the chapter despite really liking the Bankai was; "Is this it?". However I am not too worried because I am sure Lille is not down for the count just yet which will force Shunsui to use more moves, maybe something involving that shadow figure?

 

So Lille does have legs in this form

Overall a really decent Bankai reveal chapter and I liked how we got to see a bit of Askin and Ichigo just like we got to see a bit of Gerard and the other Soul Reapers last chapter. 

SCORE: 8/10

Highlights: Shunshui's Bankai
                   The opening with Askin and Ichigo

Let - Downs: The moments with Shunsui's Bankai felt rushed
                      The rest of Ichigo's group is still very useless

The Flash Season Two: Flash Of Two Worlds

Straight out of the comic

Team Flash decides whether or not they can trust Jay Garrick who calms he is the Flash in an alternate reality called Earth 2 and is after an evil speedster called Zoom (Voiced by Tony Todd). Meanwhile Meta - Human Eddie Slick AKA Sand Demon (Kett Turton) appears and new police officer Patty Spivot (Shantel VanSanten) asks Joe if she can join the Meta - Human Task Force.

 

On to the second episode now which I have been looking forward to because of Jay and this was a great introduction for him. First off the actor did a really good job of portraying this more experienced Flash despite being way younger than his comic book counterpart and he is just really likable and got on well with the rest of the cast. I also really liked the whole explanation of Earth 2 and seeing Zoom was so damn awesome! He had such a great voice (as expected from Tony Todd) and to me he looked like a kind of menacing ghost, hope to see more of him and that small fight we got to see of him and Jay was so cool. Back to Jay Garrick I got to say that what I am disappointed in seeing is him without his powers because I was hoping to see a Flash team up where they have both their speed, plus this is similar to Eobard Thawne from Season One. However I loved the new move of throwing lightning he taught to Barry which really cements his job as the new mentor. The other introduction is Patty and I was really impressed with her as well because she brought a lot of energy in to the role, she fit in instantly with the cast and I liked the chemistry between her and Barry because they do have a relationship in the comics (most recently the New 52) and I think it could do well in live action.

 

"I'm back"

As for everything else Sand Demon was an awesome villain and it was interesting seeing Team Flash struggle with there being two Eddie's because of the multiverse. The final showdown at the end was done so well with Jay going in first to distract Sand Demon (despite lack of powers that was a good team up) and Barry finishing him off with lightning. But of course who could forget the iconic shot of the two Flashes running towards Patty which was an excellent copy of the famous comic cover. Another highlight was the interactions between Cisco and Stein and them working together which was good because they haven't had much before now; Stein did really good explaining the multiverse to those who haven't read the comics. As for Cisco we see him tapping more and more into his new powers but it is quite the twist that he seems to be rejecting them despite his fascination with Meta - Humans. Of course this is explained that he doesn't want them because of Eobard, its menacing to see that he is still causing grief from beyond the grave. Again I think Barry was one of the weakest links in this episodes because while his reluctance to trust anyone is understandable it was just a bit annoying in the beginning and I wanted him to just get over it, especially since it was Jay Garrick. Finally we get the unexpected arrival of Joe's wife and while I'm not sure why she has returned I think it could be something to do with Wally West who is confirmed to appear this season.

 

This version of Zoom is so cool!

Overall Jay, Patty and Zoom really helped make this episode better than the previous one and I am looking forward to seeing a new Harrison Wells in the series.

 

SCORE: 8/10

 

Highlights: Jay, Patty and Zoom debut

                   The two Flashes vs. Sand Demon

                   Cisco and Stein subplot

                   The multiverse was explained really well

 

Let - Downs: Jay with no powers

                      Barry's attitude in the beginning

 

 

The great screenshots of these episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;

 

 





http://screencapped.net/

The Strain Season Two: Intruders

Kelly now takes more of the intuitive to get closer to Zach meanwhile Gus gets a visit from Quinlan and Abraham, Palmer and Eichhorst all try to get after the Occido Lumen.

Over the last few episode Eichhorst really haven't has a big role besides from when he was disappointed at not being chosen as the Master's new vessel but this one sees him in the spotlight once again. I really liked the scene at the beginning where he is helping Kelly with her face (more on her later) and I liked the chemistry between those two; Eichhorst using his experience to help the new vampire Kelly. Then of course there is the tense moments between Eichhorst and Palmer and I got to say good one for Palmer who, despite still being humans, has no problem standing up to Eichhorst who rage when he was leaving was noticeable even though he was silent. Then Eichhorst decided to surprise everyone by trying to get the Occido Lumen first and having a good battle with Abraham and Fet; so all in all a good episode for Eichhorst. Kelly was another standout with her looking more like her human self and taking more of an active approach to capture Zach rather than just stalking in the shadows. The showdown in the hideout was really intense because I didn't know if someone was going to get infected or not but it looks like Kelly survived to try another day. You know I have really been liking Kelly's character even since she became a vampire; from mindless drone to leader of the blind kids and now at the same level of Eichhorst, it is some really great development.

As for everything else we also got a subplot with Eph and Zach performing surgery on a gunshot victim while trying to buy a sniper rifle. I liked this because it really improved the father/son relationship between them and while a lot of Zach's moments have been hit and miss this was a good one. He still denied his mother was lost at first but hopefully the ending proved that he is now completely on Eph's side. I was glad we got to see Gus back this week and I liked that he is getting closer to the Gupta family because after what he has lost he found people to care about again. It also did a really good job of reminding us how far NY has fallen with the supply run failing and Gus convincing the Gupta's to leave (plus glad to see him and Angel getting along). However we get a cool confrontation between him and Quinlan which makes me look forward to them teaming up against the Master! Finally the only thing that didn't work for me was Coco storming out on Palmer because while this created some sympathy for him I just don't know what to make of her still this late in the season; what are her thoughts and motivations or is she what she seems to be?

Overall an awesome episode where Eichhorst got to stand out once again and I was glad not to see Dutch or Nikki this episode.

SCORE: 9/10

Highlights: Eichhorst/Kelly plot
                   Eph and Zach;s subplot
                   Gus being approached by Quinlan

Let - Downs: Coco's character still frustrates me  

The Flash Season Two: The Man Who Saved Central City

Strength vs. Speed

It has been six months since Barry closed the wormhole above Central City and has been hailed as a hero however new Meta Human Atom Smasher (Edge) arrives to wreck havoc.

You don't know how much I have been looking forward to the new season of Flash and how hard it was to avoid spoilers on the internet because the Americans get it a week before us! Anyway about the episode it really drew me in straight away with the cameos of Captain Cold and Heatwave; it was almost like a page out of a comic of the Flash battling those two foes but then it turned out to be a dream - like sequence. What surprised me was that the show jumped six months later and we don't see the aftermath of the damage the wormhole did (except in small Flashbacks). I actually really liked this decision because it skipped over a lot of unnecessary stuff like Iris and Caitlin moaning over Eddie and Ronnie; I mean they are of course still grieving but at least we don't have to go through some sort of depression that can just be a drag. As for the characters themselves this episode I liked that Barry was trying to do everything solo after being in a team all last season; it was almost like a dark tone they would have on Arrow of Barry blaming himself for the death of his friends but managing to overcome it. However if I am honest to me Barry took a backseat to episode compared to the good development we got from the secondary characters. Like Iris who actually was really helpful and supportive of Barry, trying to snap him out of his depression, than just the character whose about the relationships. Then there is the really great duo of Joe and Cisco who had a funny team up near the end of last season (uncovering Wells identity) and seem to be continuing that with Cisco helping the police. Then there is Stein who seems to have taken over the role Wells left behind as the kind of mentor/genius character and I loved the scene where he thought of the name Atom Smasher. Finally there is Caitlin and I liked how she is in a similar state kind of like Barry where she tried to distant herself from everyone then overcame it but I seriously doubt Ronnie is dead and probably ended up in Earth 2.

Can't wait to see these two return to fight the Flash

As for everything else the video message from Eobard was a surprise as well as the fact that he confessed to the murder of Nora. Now from what I know of Eobard from the comics he isn't doing this because he cared, no I my opinion he is like "I'm dead anyway so.....f**k it" lol. However the release of Henry was just handled so poorly because maybe they did this because the actor has other commitments and can't hang around for much put his excuse for leaving was so stupid, especially after everything Barry went through to free him. Then there is the debut of Atom Smasher and I always like seeing new Meta Humans on Flash and I think Edge did a really good job, I loved the action scenes and he had a kickass costume! Even the effects of him growing where really good for a TV show. However I just wish the character himself was developed a bit more because it felt like he was a one off villain; he is there just to fight the Flash because Zoom told him, that's all we know of him. Plus I really hope he isn't dead because I like Atom Smasher from the comics and his family plays a big role as well with the Justice Society of America. Finally the ending with Jay Garrick (Teddy Sears) was awesome (and funny with them talking about security lol) and I am so looking forward to him working with Team Flash. In the comics he acts as a sort of mentor to Barry Allen because he has been the Flash for way longer and while he is younger in the show I can still see that happening, plus I can't wait for him to reveal more of his backstory and what Earth 2 is like.

"What where you saying Cisco about better security?"

Overall a highly enjoyable episode though probably not as mind-blowing as I thought a first episode of a season should be I think that is because there probably saving it for when Zoom gets properly introduced and like I said in my opinion it is also because the secondary characters got way more spotlight than Barry. Also thought I'd say that I will go over my thoughts on who Zoom is when we get an episode where he gets a lot of screen time, like when I did it for Reverse Flash when he fought Barry for the first time.

SCORE: 7/10

Highlights: Strong performances from the returning cast especially from the secondary characters
                   Debut of Atom Smasher
                   The six month time skip was handled really well
                   Jay Garrick at the end

Let - Downs: Atom Smasher could have been developed better
                      Henry's departure was not done well

    
The great screenshots of these episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;

 

 





http://screencapped.net/

The Strain Season Two: The Born

More backstory is revealed for Quinlan as he makes contact with Abraham meanwhile Eph still deals with the aftermath in Washington and Fet and Dutch are in for a surprise.

 

I got to say that with this episode Quinlan is turning into one of my favourite characters because he is such a damn badass! I mean we have got to give The Strain credit for it's really impressive intro with Quinlan as a Roman gladiator; the fighting, the costumes and the awesome setting. We also get some to see his enhanced strength and speed as well as the fact that he can survive in daylight which is because he is a half breed. I didn't expect that but it got me thinking that if he is a half - breed what did that make the commando vampires? He said he trained them but how did they retain their minds in the first place? Moving on we also get to see a second Flashback where it is revealed he has been after the Master for quite some time and gets an awesome confrontation with him alongside Abraham. Sure there was no fighting but the way they where staring each other down and mocking one another was cool but the comment about Quinlan's mother makes me think that his mother was human but is the Master his father? Besides that we also get a cool action sequence where he makes short work of the blind vampire children which was also really gory with the one that was sliced in half!

Unfortunately the other subplots wasn't as good starting with Eph who has seemingly teleported back to NY; I have got to mark it down for that because after all he went through to leave how the hell did he get back so easily? Luckily the rest of his subplot was good because he had a nice reunion with Zach and his determination to kill Palmer should give him a new darker storyline because he had never wanted to kill a human before. Speaking of Palmer he got a lot of screen time and I admit I am warming up to his relationship with Coco; maybe it's because of he said he has been distant from people all his life but now he is finally letting people in. If this subplot does redeem Palmer then fine by me now plus he is one sly dog for managing to romance Coco at the end lol. As for Coco I still think she needs more development because I just want it confirmed is she really who she seems to be or his there more to her? Finally the real let down was the Fet, Dutch and Nikki subplot because I just kept shaking my head; here we go I thought, just like Gotham we have to throw in a lesbian twist the show could have done without. After so much building Fet and Duth's relationship, which I think was done well, they had to throw Nikki into the mix which is just making all the scenes with them awkward to watch. Also Nikki just isn't a likeable character and probably is going to be a useless person I bet, and this is really going to annoy me, she is just going to be arguing with Fet over Dutch and justify their relationship with Dutch herself  trying to get Fet to sympathise with Nikki like she had already because of what she's been through, like abandoning everyone.        

Overall Quinlan was defiantly the biggest highlight of the episode but I am disappointed that they have to bring Nikki back who is just going to be an annoyance and a let down in every episode.

SCORE: 7/10

Highlights: Quinlan!/intro and Flashbacks
                   Palmer's relationship with Coco
                   Eph's new determination to kill Palmer

Let - Downs: We don't see Eph journey back into NY and it seemed too easy
                       Bringing Nikki back  

The Strain Season Two: Identity

Eph begins to make contacts in Washington to get his bio - weapon ready meanwhile back in NY Gus helps out Angel when they encounter a vampire and Zach and Nora are confronted by Kelly.

The Strain continues with anther strong episode and I'll talk first about Eph's mission in Washington. Like I said about last episode I am liking this plot because it gives s something different in a new location and it also gave us two new characters; John and Lee. It was nice actually seeing that Eph's plan was being taken seriously by those two and that it looks like he would succeed and I admit I thought one of them was going to betray him, so it was a shock when they both ended up dead. I give Strain props because this was done really well; these two characters where built up really good (John being an old friend and Eph was getting close to Lee) that I felt really sorry when those two, who where just introduced, where mercilessly gunned down so the show did a good job of making me care for them. We also see how much influence Stoneheart has even outside of NY and I think that if Eph doesn't stay in Washington he will go back to NY in a revenge rage to get back at Palmer. Speaking of the bad guys the Master switches to a new body and while it isn't as imposing as his old one I'm glad Bolivar is getting a larger role than I thought (wish he kept the wig though). It was a cool scene; seeing Eichorst bowing down ready to accept being a host only for it to be Bolivar, I guess this will humble him a bit after all of his gloating.

As for everything else it is good to still see Gus hang out with the family at the restaurant and since he saved them from a vampire maybe they will trust him a bit more. I like the interaction between them with Gus being a bit of a fanboy over Angel's old films yet Angel himself just wants to forget them, I hope they continue to team up more in future fights. Another great moment was that Kelly finally tracked down her son with the Feelers which lead to a really intense chase through a church and I got to say it is good seeing Nora take more of an active role in the action this week. I am also liking the Feelers because it gives the good guys something new and different to fight because they have become used to normal vampires now, makes me hope we will get new types soon. However a real let down from this plot was the death of Fitzwilliams because he barely got a chance to do anything; unlike John and Lee who had there moment wrapped up in one episode I felt Fitzwilliams was built up for something more, something to last for the rest of the season at least and I really thought he would confront Palmer. Finally it is good to see more of that mysterious vampire Quinlan from last episode and I was right that he works for the Ancients but obviously has no trouble speaking his mind to them. Since he wants human allies I guess he might work with Abraham soon but I am curious about that woman who already works for him, hopefully we'll know more about her soon.

Overall another really strong episode but a major let down was the death of Fitzwilliams because we had no pay off from his character arc in Season Two.

SCORE: 8/10

Highlights: Eph's time in Washington and brutal deaths of his friends
                   Gus and Angel team up
                   Nora and Zach confronted by Kelly
                   Interesting developments from both vampire teams

Let - Downs: Fitzwilliam's seemingly pointless death after so much build up     

Top 10 Arrow Season Two Episodes

Now for Arrow Season Two! SPOILERS

 

10. Tremors




Starting off is an episode that had Ben Turner AKA Bronze Tiger as the main villain which I really liked because he is one of my favourite villains in the Arrow TV series, it is such a shame his character has been possibly killed off because he has been in the comics. We also had some good moments with Oliver training Roy and revealing his identity to him and it was the start of a good subplot where Moira runs for mayor.

9. League of Assassins




The episode that introduced the League when they where only hinted at in Season One and they did a very good job. We had some awesome fight scenes between the League, Oliver and Sara but I really liked the emotional moments between Sara and Quentin such as when she first approached him and when Sara had to leave in the end. Plus this is probably one of my favourite episodes with Quentin because of the moments I just mentioned and when he teamed up with Oliver and Sara to fight the League, even doing really good against trained assassins.

8. The Promise




The episode of the season when the majority of it focuses on Flashbacks and we got a really entertaining one where Slade, Oliver and Sara take over the boat. Slade was really awesome in this when he wore his old Deathstroke mask and slaughtered everyone in his path also we got some tense moments in the present with Team Arrow trying to secretly take out Slade. What does bother my a bit about this episode is that is that Slade turns against Oliver because of Shado and I always found that reason to be kind of forced .

7. Streets of Fire




The penultimate episode of the season and a really good one where Slade unleashes his army upon Starling City. This episode had a lot of good moments such as Quentin regaining his trust with the police, Malcolm returning as the Dark Archer and a real standout is when Sebastian Blood decides to betray Slade because he truly did love the city. However while I also enjoyed the parts with Sara and Laurel I have just never liked that Sara keeps thinking she is so irredeemable because that was the flimsy excuse she used to leave last time and I never believed it.  

6. Broken Dolls




The introduction of one of my favourite DC villains which is the Dollmaker and he was really good here in live action. Another great episode with Quentin (see he is much better in Season Two than in One and Three) because of his past history with the Dollmaker and that he teamed up with Team Arrow. This was also one of the darkest Arrow episodes because of the method of the Dollmaker's killings, like the part when he tried to make Laurel into his new doll. This was also a strong introduction to the Canary (not just two minutes intro last episode) but I just wish she didn't have to kill the Dollmaker.

5. Unthinkable




Now I know the finale is a bit further down the list than even I would have thought but that is because Season Two has so many great episodes not just the finale. We have here an awesome final fight between Oliver and Slade which was made so much cooler with the use of Flashbacks during it and we have the massive battle between Oliver teaming up with the League (with debut of Arsenal) against Slade's army. However I just didn't like Thea's subplot of leaving Starling because as I have mentioned in my reviews the pay off in Season Three is lacklustre after so much hype.

 

4. State vs. Queen




This episode is a standout in Season Two and I enjoyed watching every minute of it! First off this episode had the return of the first Count Vertigo and while there was some who found him too over the top I've always like him. He had a really cool plan of poisoning the city with Vertigo, he is one of the few to work out the Arrow's identity and he had a great final confrontation with him in the Queen Consolidated building. Besides that the trial was entertaining to watch with many twists and this episode had a big WTF moment with the reveal that Malcolm is still alive and the father of Thea.

3. The Scientist




Yep I just had to put in the two episode arc where we get the debut of both Mirakuru and Barry Allen. First off I complained in my reviews of Season One that the show was too grounded but this two episodes where the start of Arrow being more like a comic book, like with a serum that can make super - soldiers which is a great start. Then of course is including Barry Allen who went on to become the Flash and have a successful TV show of his own and would introduce Meta Humans to both shows. Plus Grant Gustin proved that he was just the perfect casting for the speedster!

2. Three Ghosts




The second episode of the arc to feature Barry Allen and a great follow up it was too. Arrow's fight against Cyrus (like in the last episode) is so awesome but the real standout is the visions Oliver throughout that drives him into despair except for Tommy (always great to see him) that gives him hope once again. This also had an awesome ending where Barry struck by lightning and I was so happy when I saw that because I knew then they where really going to give us fans the Flash and not just Barry Allen as a scientist.

 

1. The Man Under the Hood




My favourite episode of the season and I think it has earned it! Slade was so great as Deathstroke in this with a big WTF moment when he appeared out of nowhere in Team Arrow's hideout and then attacked the STAR labs. This also introduced us to Cisco and Caitlin so this was kind of like the first crossover even before the Flash show and the moments with Team Arrow rescuing Roy where great. Finally this is one only Season Two of episodes where I really liked Laurel because of her investigation confirming Oliver is Arrow, her scene with an injured Quentin and blackmailing her boss which I give her props for.  

Worst episode

Heir to the Demon

While I do like Nyssa as a character this episode reveals she had a past relationship with Sara which I just never liked because it always felt forced to me. Also while Laurel has just been terrible the entire season this episode was the worst for her with her fit of rage against Sara in the end or the kind of person she was in Flashbacks. I'm just really glad she became a way better character in Season Three then she was now.


The great screenshots of these episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;

 

 





http://screencapped.net/