It was a stroke of genius to incorporate performance enhancing drugs into the show. For those of you who didn’t catch the last episode, Keith and Matt are representing a client who is a professional baseball player who killed one of the team coaches with a foul ball. The district attorney is willing to drop the charges if the athlete admits to using performance enhancing drugs. The case didn’t conclude during this episode which left a nice cliff hanger for next week. It was interesting to see Jordan turn on Eli when he unofficially fired him by taking all of his clients away and kicking him out of his office.

The Bad

I mentioned my frustration last week at how Dr. Chen’s role seems to have dwindled a bit. Connie, TV Fodder’s resident wizard, reasoned that James Saito, the actor who plays Dr. Chen, was leaving to work on another show. It seems that Connie may unfortunately be correct. Even though a connection was revealed between Dr .Chen and Eli’s father, Chen is apparently being replaced by an unknown psychiatrist whom Eli needs to see in order to keep his law license. While Dr. Chen may not leave yet, he could very easily be replaced by this shrink as the mentor/guide persona. Visions will be transformed into memories and the results will be the same, albeit from a psychological rather than alternative and holistic perspective. Dr. Chen is a strong character with plenty of potential growth and while this is a business and actors come and go, it would certainly be a shame if Dr. Chen/James Saito left “Eli Stone”.

The Ugly

While the steroids storyline is rather promising, it is somewhat distasteful because of its not so subtle comparison. The actor playing the baseball player resembles the controversial Barry Bonds. Bonds, for those of you who aren’t fans of America’s past time, has been accused of cheating via steroids and for lying under oath in front of the United States Congress. The crack about head size from the assistant D.A. during the episode is parallel to the ongoing joke about how Bonds’ head size has almost doubled since he supposedly started using performance enhancing substances. While the storyline is sound, it could have and should have been written with a little more respect to a person and a situation that hasn’t reached its conclusion.

Sadly, this is my final post for TV Fodder. I would like to take the opportunity to thank Mac, Rachel, Connie and the rest of the Fodder staff for making my time here a great experience that I will not soon forget.

Good luck to all of you and much success in all your endeavors.

Cheers,

Ozzy

Another double case episode this week. Two distinctly different cases give the show a fuller look and this is a format I think the writers should stick to loyally. Patti sings in this episode and gives a solid performance as well. The first seeds of an Eli/Maggie romance seem to have been planted. Some of you may get that impression from their final scene together, but it is still a mystery as to whom Eli will finally tango with. Taylor, Maggie and Beth, are all possibilities and if done correctly, can provide some great drama and comedy.

The Bad

There was a really poor cop out on the part of the writers when Patti informs Eli about the big secret of the witness’s location. This is the third time in this series where I have noticed lazy writing. There is nothing wrong with “accidental circumstances” in storylines, but this philosophy should be used sparingly and with caution. The introduction of the romance between Martin and Patti appears to be more of an excuse to explain Patti’s knowledge of the situation, as opposed to there actually being an arch between the two of any significance.

The Ugly

It was a bit annoying to witness the demotion of Dr. Chen to a mere background character. The information we received from the early poll we conducted showed Dr. Chen to be ranked just as high as Eli on the “intriguing” factor. Maybe the writers never had any real intention of fully utilizing the character, but I think the rest of us would certainly approve if Chen was involved a little more in storylines. On the other hand, Maggie has really taken off of late, so it may be just an issue of not having enough room to fit all of the secondary characters into the story.

The main case in this episode surrounds a man named Jake, who has had the misfortune of being in a coma for the last five years. During his time in the dark, Jake’s partner and best friend Adam made millions from their start up company and married Jake’s wife. Eli represents Jake, who demands to receive half of his company back. Jake’s doctor is Nathan. Eli actually sees him in a vision prior to ever meeting him in real life. The case never really ends up going to trial, as Jake agrees to take the compensation and part ways with his ex-wife and former best friend. On his way out of the law firm however, Jake suffers a heart attack and dies. This hits Nathan hard because Eli, through a vision, understood that something was medically wrong with Jake. Nathan didn’t heed Eli’s warnings until it was too late.

Jordan agrees to represent fellow bog shot lawyer Mason Andrews in an employment discrimination case. A young black lawyer is claiming that Mason didn’t hire him because he was a “different” kind of African American compared to Mason. Jordan ends up winning the case, but later offers the young lawyer a job.

With their relationship in turmoil, Taylor and Eli admit to still having feelings for each other. Taylor ends up spending the night with Eli, but she leaves early before the two get a chance to talk.

The Good

This was the first time that “Eli Stone” has shown us two, almost entirely separate storylines. This is always a strong tool for helping get the supporting cast over with the viewers.

The Bad

I am not impressed with the direction the writers are taking with Matt and Maggie. Yes, comic relief is important, but the characters still need to have a deeper involvement in the story. Maggie’s sidekick position is perfectly legitimate, but pulling her to the surface on one or two issues would certainly help her credibility.

The Ugly

While nobody is tooting the realistic horn at “Eli Stone”, one still wonders how Eli has not been committed to Arkham Asylum by now. Doctored papers be damned, Eli is a textbook nut job. Perhaps the characters around Eli should start reacting differently to his visions.

What Happened

Eli is suffering from WWII visions were he has to protect a soldier by the name of Private Swayne. Unable to locate said soldier, Eli is accidently successful when he goes to meet Taylor for a lunch date. While waiting, he meets a boy named Ryan Swayne who is caught in the middle of a custody battle between his father, and his mother who is Private Swayne in the National Guard. Taylor represents the father and Eli, trying not to ignore his visions, tries to represent the mother. However, she already has a lawyer, who is quite incompetent. It’s actually Larry who briefly represented Beth in the Pilot episode. After Eli comes to Larry’s rescue in the court room, Private Swayne fires Larry and hires Eli instead. Taylor isn’t pleased at having to face Eli in court. Later, when Ryan is on the stand, Eli discovers bruising that the boy has on his side. Through more visions involving war, a gun, and his father, Eli discovers that Ryan’s parents engineered the entire custody battle so Private Swayne wouldn’t have to go back to Iraq. Though more than reluctant at first, Eli continues the charade and the court awards custody of Ryan to his mother. The father however, is arrested for suspected child abuse.

Taylor and Eli are having problems with their relationship. At their pre wedding gala, Eli suffers a vision and wakes up on the pastry table in front of the stunned guests. Later in their apartment, Eli tells Taylor they should split up. He says his father was the same way, and while it wasn’t his fault, he still made the lives of those around him a living hell.

Jordan is putting the clamp down on Eli. He takes away the stylish sports car and slashes his expense account. This is all in an effort to get Eli to see the “error” of his ways. He even forces Eli to take a physical to prove his well being. Eli of course has an aneurysm and can’t pass the test. After some debate, Nathan finally agrees to sign the documents, proclaiming a clean bill of health.

Patti, out of spite for Taylor, secretly invites Beth to the gala. Beth and Eli have an awkward meeting until Eli recommends that she should dance with Nathan who is standing nearby.

The WWII visions that Eli is having, resemble the same visions his father had. During one of Dr. Chen’s sessions , Eli remembers that his father was holding and firing a real gun during one of his own visions. Eli had lied to police by saying he was the one who fired the gun so his father would not be taken away and committed.

The Good

The plot twist with the custody trial was very well written. I don’t think most viewers saw that one coming. It was also nice to see the writers deviate from musical visions. While I believe that they are generally well done, it was nice to see a little bit more action. Kudos as well to Jonny Lee Miller who does a fantastic job in carrying the show on his shoulders. Not that the other actors aren’t talented, but it’s a rarity in contemporary television to see a show so focused on a single character.

The Bad

There was a sub plot between Eli and Maggie that really didn’t go anywhere. I’m not saying that every single scene and line of dialogue has to have paramount importance, but their verbal exchanges really made no sense. It is almost as if the producers found out they were a few minutes on the short side and decide to sprinkle some meaningless rebuttal throughout the hour.

The Ugly

With much humility, I am forced to seat myself in the ugly seat this week. I was convinced that George Michael’s star power would dominate the show. Not only has his presence and music complemented the main plots nicely, but that same presence was almost non-existent in this episode. All I can say is, I’m sorry and I stand corrected.

What did you think of the show? Do you think the show will survive now that we are returning to the status quo of television?

By the way, does anyone know the type of car Eli had? I tried to guess during the towing scene, but with out much success.

Until next week guys,

Happy Valentines Day.

Here are two videos of tonight’s “Eli Stone” episode called Father Figure.

“Eli Stone” is on every Thursday night at 10pm EST.

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?

Tonight’s episode is called “Freedom” and is about a Mexican couple who are suing a produce conglomerate. Eli agrees to take the case only after he receives more visions.

After some discussion with Joana about George Michael, I have decided to add him to the poll I recently put up in the “Thoughts and More Fun Stuff” post.

Here is a recent interview with George Michael.

Mushy it may be, but “Eli Stone” brought a preverbal tear to my eye on more than one occasion. I thought the best part of the show was when Eli noticed the blue blocks that spelled “George Michael”. I don’t know about the rest of you, but I raised an eyebrow when Eli agreed to represent Beth so quickly. After seeing the reason however, I thought it was a nice touch. A good, solid first episode by most accounts.

The Bad

Why is it that in every courtroom drama, the antagonist always gets their butts kicked by the protagonist in such an unrealistic fashion? Eli and Beth were losing badly and then Eli comes out with a touching final statement that snags them the win. Instead, it would be nice to see a bit of smart legal maneuvering to out fox the opposition. Also, Patti just “happened” to get her hands on some important documents that helped Eli win the case. It all seems a little too convenient and smells of lazy writing.

The Ugly

Will George Michael sing several times in every episode? I like him as much as the next guy, but it could get tiring pretty quickly. What about viewers who aren’t amongst the George Michael faithful. The writers don’t seem to understand that may alienate viewers who dislike the pop singer. It would be a shame if the show lost fans because George Michael was rammed down their throats. (No pun intended)

Trivia

What is the name of the street cars in San Francisco? I have heard them being referred to in about ten different ways.

Eli Stone visits the Panchachuli Peaks in India. Which Indian province are they located in?

Bloopers

I wasn’t able to find any bloopers so far. If you did, please let us know.

Quotes

Is it my imagination, or did you have more of a sack before you got engaged?

- Matt to Eli after the session with Beth

I can’t lose it to George Michael.

- Young Eli to young Beth

*** George Michael has only been added recently to the poll. ***

Review

Let’s not waste time recapping the first seven minutes. If you haven’t seen the sneak preview, click here

Hospital

Eli is getting an MRI after his run in with George Michael. His brother, Nathan is conducting the test. We hear “If you build it, they will come.” That is not Eli going crazy, but rather Nathan playing a little joke on his kid brother. Nathan informs Eli that he’s perfectly healthy and that seeing George Michael is simply stress related. Eli still appears uneasy.

Eli’s Office

Patti, Eli’s Secretary, is trying to get his attention while he listens to real music. She gives him the number of her acupuncturist, Dr. Chen. Beth, the mother of the autistic boy walks in. She wants to hire Eli to represent her in the case. Eli refuses and Beth leaves, but not before she gives him a strange goodbye, like they’ve met before. Eli hears George Michael music again and walks out.

Law Firm

Eli stumbles through the hallway, trying to track the music. He hears it coming from behind a door and walks in. There is a huge party, with George Michael singing and dancing. The employees are also dancing and jumping around. Eli really gets into it and starts dancing in front of George Michael. Suddenly the music stops. Eli opens his eyes and dozens of office workers are looking at him is if he were a nut.

Dr. Chen’s Office

Dr. Chen uses some of his tricks to make Eli have a flashback.

Flashback – Eli’s Dorm Room

Eli is making out with a girl. She discovers that it’s his first time. The girl finds a George Michael cassette and while Eli has some reservations, he agrees to “lost it” to George Michael. The two start kissing again.

Present Day – Beth’s Apartment

Eli tells Beth that he remembers that she was the girl he lost his virginity to. He sees Beth’s son Ben playing with blocks and using them to spell out names. Eli tells Beth that he is going to take the case. As Eli leaves, we see that there are two rows of blue blocks that spell “George Michael.”

Law Firm

Eli is trying to convince the partners and Jordan to let him represent Beth. He explains that because the firm would be representing both parties, it would create a “Chinese Wall.” (I have no idea what that means) He also claims that the firm would not have to use any resources for Beth’s case and that the firm would garner positive publicity. They agree.

Law Firm

Eli hears a ringing sound. He looks and sees a San Francisco cable car. There is a man’s voice saying, “Hurry up Eli.”

Doctor Chen’s Office

Eli tells Chen about the voice which he claims is his father’s. He explains that his father was a helpless drunk and life long loser. Chen gives him another vision.

Flashback – Cable Car

Eli and his dad are talking. The father gives Eli a picture of the Panchchuli Peaks in India. He also tells Eli that he will one day do great things.

Eli’s Apartment

Eli and his fiancé Taylor are discussing Eli’s new case. Taylor is upset that Eli is going up against the Firm and that he might get fired. She tells him not to screw up and that she doesn’t like the fact that his client is a woman he shares a past with.

Court Room

Beth explains to the jury that Ben was a normal child until his pediatrician gave him Beutell vaccine with Mercurital. The Beutell CEO claims in defense that there is no proof that Mercurital and autism are connected. Beutell vaccines save the lives of thousands of children, he says.

Eli’s Office

Beth and Eli talk about how they have no chance of winning. Patti walks in and Beth and Ben leave. Patti gives Eli an internal Beutell study she finagled from a paralegal. The study shows that Beutell suspects that Mercurital leads to autism. Eli is worried that possession of such a document could get him fired.

Eli’s Apartment

Taylor and Eli talk about the new piece of evidence he can’t use. Eli’s brother Nathan and his mom show up for dinner followed by Taylor’s father Jordan and her mom.

Eli’s Apartment – Balcony

Jordan tells Eli that he knows about the Beutell report. He also informs Eli that he didn’t have to inform him because of the so called “Chinese Wall.” Jordan tells Eli that it will be a pleasure to have him in the family.

Panchchuli Peaks

Eli walks up to the edge of a cliff, holding a tin of coffee. He starts to hear the voices of his mother and brother.

Eli’s Apartment – Balcony

Eli finds himself holding a plant and standing on the balcony ledge. Everyone is yelling at him to come down.

Nathan’s Office

Nathan explains to Eli and Taylor that Eli’s visions are a result of a hereditary aneurism. Their father apparently suffered from an aneurism as well. Taylor tells Eli that she doesn’t know if she can live with the fact that he might die at any moment. Eli asks if she’s breaking up with him.

Court

Eli is questioning the Beutell CEO. He asks him if he has given the vaccine to his daughter. It turns out that the CEO hasn’t.

Law Firm

Jordan makes Beth a substantial financial offer, but she refuses. Afterwards, Eli tells Beth that they still won’t win. Beth tells him that they won’t win because he doesn’t believe.

Dr. Chen’s Office

Eli tells Doctor Chen about his aneurism. Chen talks and reveals that he doesn’t really have a Chinese accent.

Dr. Chen’s Roof

Chen explains to Eli that for everything in life there is a science and faith answer. He also tells Eli that he may be a prophet. Eli is understandably skeptical.

Court

Matt and Eli give their closing statements.

Court – Outside

Eli’s mother shows up and gives him a coffee tin. She says it contains his father’s ashes. She also says that he would know what to do with it.

Court

The jury awards Beth 5.2 million dollars.

Law Firm

The parties reach an agreement which includes Beutell removing Mercurital from its vaccines. Beth also asks that Eli keep his job with the firm.

Law Firm – Outside

Eli tells Beth that he’s going to stay with the firm, but he promises to make changes with how he conducts his professional life. Beth asks Eli out in what appears to be a more than friendly way.

Panchchuli Peaks – Tent

Eli apologizes to his father’s ashes. He now understands what his father had to go through. Hi picks up the coffee tin and walks out side to the edge of the cliff. He pours the ashes and they blow away in the wind.

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