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Eli Stone Fodder

Eli Stone: Freedom

freedom.jpgI would like to apologize for the late review, but I am visiting my parents in Israel and “Eli Stone” hasn’t exactly made it to the television screen here just yet.

At the recommendation of some of my counterparts in other websites, I will cease the play by play review portion for “Eli Stone” and “Chuck”. Everybody appeared to be more interested in the thoughts portion of the review anyways. But enough babbling; it’s time to get the show on the proverbial road.


What Happened

In this episode, called “Freedom”, Eli Stone represents a Mexican couple who are unable to have children because the produce company that employs them didn’t maintain safe working conditions. Eli is hesitant at first to take on another “pro bono” case, even at the request of Maggie. (Julie Gonzalo) As the visions and songs return and after a chat with Dr. Chen, Eli takes the case. Eli and Maggie end up losing the case, but more than make up for it by convincing the immigration judge to let the couple stay.

Patti gets upset at Eli for no telling her the he has a brain aneurysm. She finds out when Taylor accidently slips up in the bathroom.

Jordan is worried about Eli. He is also disappointed to find out that Eli doesn’t wish to be the firm’s future and golden boy anymore.


The Good

I thought the episode was solid. Perhaps not as good as the pilot, but the pace was perfect and the character interaction was well done. The final scene with Eli and Taylor making out on the couch with the WWII soldiers all around them was a nice touch. The choir scene with Victor Garber was perhaps the best song vignette so far.

The Bad

Yet another courtroom victory with very little realism. I am often reminded that most television shows do not attempt to be realistic and should be judged on other characteristics. However, if this is supposed to be a legal dramady, (comedy-drama) at least make it a bit believable. The judge just happened to sympathize with the couple and let them stay? Smells of lazy writing to this television analyst.

The Ugly

It’s a good sign when this section is left empty. There was nothing ugly in this episode.


The Poll

The results of last week’s poll are rather interesting. The top three vote getters for most intriguing character are:

1. George Michael 66.2% (Big surprise eh?)

2. Eli 13.8

3. Dr. Chen 12.3


Most of us wouldn’t hesitate to place wager that George Michael would be number one. I was a bit surprised to see him with such a commanding lead though. I hope that this doesn’t mean that people are tuning in to “Eli Stone” simply for George Michael. This poll was started at the conclusion of the pilot, so it is a bit troubling the Eli is so far back.

Other interesting poll results.

The majority of votes came from Europe and the North East. The West Coast was almost non existent.

Dr. Chen received almost all of his votes from the Great Lakes and Midwest regions.

Eli received only one vote in Europe. (Iceland)

Germany was by far the biggest George Michael supporter.


What did you think of the episode?

Posted by Ozzy on February 9, 2008 4:53 PM
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Upon hearing a recommendation, I watched Eli Stone and saw what has to be one of the worst television shows seen in recent times. Stilted acting, forced dialogues, the realistic situations were unrealistic, the fantasy sections implausible and poorly delivered. Everything that Pushing Daises does well, this show does poorly.

The religious references were inane although perhaps reflective of the show itself - "it doesn't have a prayer."

Here's another good example of television emptying the litter box during the strike as opposed to presenting something innovative.

-- Posted by: Bill Chuck at February 10, 2008 3:42 PM

The first episode was much better, by far.

This one was a little weak though I like the concept.

I just hope it doesn't turn into a male version of Ally McBeal.

-- Posted by: Connie at February 13, 2008 8:50 PM

Hi Connie,

I hope so as well, though Ally McBeal was pretty popular for a brief stint. Even if it does turn into an Ally McBeal clone, I still get the impression that more women watch “Eli Stone” than men.

-- Posted by: Ozzy at February 14, 2008 2:14 AM

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