While we remain perpetually dismayed at the gullibility of American voters, the proof as seen in today's elections in many parts of the country, we move on to more lighthearted subjects.
David Caruso maintained, when filming for Season 8 of "CSI Miami" began back in July, that this season would bring about a return to the basics of the first few seasons. Have we seen signs of this? In our opinion, David has been right on, at least in the episodes viewed to date.
Monday's episode, "Hey, Dude, Where's My Groom?", was another example of a production meant to successfully juggle the various viewer expectations. The regular cast members were well represented, the storyline sophomoric but reasonably plausible, and easily watchable.
We've seen significant, as well as trivial, changes this season. There has yet to be any massive explosions, extensive gunfire, 'can-you-top-this' gory victimology. Relying on plot, character development and a merging of new cast members, there seems to be a bit of grumbling from the action-anticipatory audience, yet less than the complaints from fans on unfinished business from previous seasons.
We understand Eric (Adam Rodriguez) will be returning, so no finality is expected there. The same might be said of Yelina (Sofia Milos). However, what of Kyle (Evan Ellingson), Julia (Elizabeth Berkley), Valera (Boti Bliss), Eric's father? Not seen, not mentioned. Have they simply been wiped off the planet, to reside in a lingering limbo with Suzie and Madison? Good grief, even Clavo Cruz had closure, as did Speed and Alexx.
A trivial change which alerted us from Day One this season was the gradual diminution of the decibel-shattering theme, beginning as an underlayment to the pre-credit script, building to the crescendo of the more familiar "Yeaaaaaah, Don't get fooled again". Such a pleasant introduction, one long overdue.
With that, we've been given one-liners which are far less effective. Either none at all, or words swallowed with the rising strings of the theme. That's not a demand for Horatio-centered one-liners every week. Yet, David's delivery provides an impact not in evidence this season. Many of the regular cast lack the ability to produce the impetus necessary to carry over the credits.
There's an assumption on our part that the ubiquitous Jesse (Eddie Cibrian) will be toned down as the writers determine a comfort level for him. Walter (Omar Miller) has already established his character, as has Tom (Christian Clemenson). Both can generate a snicker, or giggle, when one is deemed necessary. We're impressed Christian has been retained past his two-episode arc; hope he stays. Walter's backstory is a tad flimsy at this point. However, we've lived with Ryan's (Jonathan Togo) liquid past for five years, so should expect nothing more.
After six episodes, our patience is wearing thin waiting for a Horatio-focused script. We already know next week is more Ray Langston (Laurence Fishburne) coming from Las Vegas; looking forward to that trilogy. We usually catch Gary Sinise and "CSI NY"; we may even be inclined to watch "CSI LV", which has never been a favorite. Still, we are in need of a Horatio themed story. Perhaps tidying up a few of his loose threads might be in order this season.
The writers seem to have misplaced the characterizations of the regulars, perhaps in their pursuit to establish multiple new cast regulars. Each of the team, Horatio, Calleigh, Ryan, Natalia and Frank, appear to be stagnating while concentration is directed toward the fresh faces.
In our opinion, the emphasis should be on the regulars, with the newbies visible while they find their niche. What we're seeing is the reverse; the leads playing second banana to the new kids on the block.
Does our critique smack of minutiae regarding Season Eight? Oops! Overall, we are pleased with the efforts of TPTB to date. This season has been enjoyable. However, we would dearly love to see a few of these issues addressed as the year progresses.
For an actual review, read Scott Parker's excellent take on the episode at the link.
We are patient. Perhaps that's not quite accurate. We are generally very impatient. However, over those situations where control rests outside our jurisdiction, we struggle to maintain, realizing that not everyone prioritizes the same way.
