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hells_half_acreWatching it live may have failed me, but my IP mask came through brilliantly afterward and I was able to watch it on the BBC iPlayer. Yay!
The showdown at the pool
Well, this turned out to be a non-event! That was a surprise. In the past year, I've been picturing bombs and diving into pools - I've been picturing Mycroft swooping in like a Deus Ex Machina....I did NOT picture a cheesy ringtone. I, however, am not disappointed in the slightest. I wanted the unexpected, and even though I had over a year to come up with every scenario possible, they still managed to surprise me.
Also, they still managed to have Moriarty be terrifying. Seriously...if I ever ran into Andrew Scott on the street, I would probably run away out of instinct before my rational brain kicked in and reminded me that he's just a very good actor.
And that slow walk by Irene into the room....man, that woman really is sex on legs.
But, let's move on from the teaser....
I love the passage of time, and seeing John's blog take off, and Sherlock's annoyance with it.
I also love how they worked in the deerstalker!! Brilliant!
The main plot...
I love how brilliantly WITTY this show is. Seriously...it's GOLDEN. The lines are so quick, you almost miss them - but they are absolutely brilliant.
I love John and Sherlock giggling in Buckingham palace. I think where a lot of shows fall down (and I'm not just talking about Sherlock adaptations) but all shows...is that they forget to show the audience why two people love each other so much...but to actually just have the two main characters trading childish jokes and both laughing at them...it's just, refreshing to see. Especially since they could have written John being scandalized that Sherlock wasn't wearing any pants - but instead he finds it hilarious, and OF COURSE he would find it hilarious, Sherlock is his best mate...they HAVE to get along on this level, or else John would have left eons ago. The fact of the matter is that John LOVES Sherlock's insolence just as much as Mycroft hates it.
Oh and Mycroft...such good moments with Mycroft here..."the queen" and
"I'll be mother"
"There's a childhood summed up in a sentence"
Not to mention the other lines "Get off my sheet, Mycroft!" and the line about how Sherlock looks tall because he has a good suit and a short friend. Brilliant.
And then Sherlock actually steals an ashtray for John...oh friendship. Like I said, I love the fact that we SEE it with this series.
And the PUNCHING SCENE!
This is what I love about John Watson - he was both a soldier and a doctor, and most people forget the first part. "You ought to remember, Sherlock, I was a soldier, I killed people." "You were a doctor" "I had bad days!"
John just didn't kill people in the war though - he killed someone the very first night that he met Sherlock, and with absolutely no remorse, I may add. I mean, I know it "wasn't a very NICE man", but I think even killing a bad guy would have SOME effect on most people - but not on John Watson.
And then we get to Irene...
And I like the fact that they kept true to the book, with Sherlock trying to fool her into thinking he's a poor attacked man...and her seeing through the "disguise"...I also like the fact that she doesn't play along.
Also, I love that he can't deduce a naked woman...or, rather, a naked Irene - because he can still deduce John from the state of the skin on his face.
I also love her line "somebody loves you" about how John avoided his nose and teeth when he punched him in the face.
So far (I'm typing this up whenever I have to pause for a bit for the iPlayer to load more) I like what they've done with Irene. They've kept her true to the original Irene, who did not act with any particular malice, nor was she a criminal...they've also made, her, I think, a good reflection of the audience - smart is sexy. Though, I do which I looked like her - at least when it comes to her ass.
And she's dead. Ouch. Well - now I'm sad. Poor Sherlock.
Mycroft and Sherlock...I love the scene in the morgue, the cigarette - the conversation about whether there is something wrong with them because they don't care.
But first let's talk about Christmas...Sherlock not remembering the John's girlfriend's names - awesome. Lestrade! Yay! And then Sherlock tears into Molly...Molly's quite the poor whipping boy in this series, I find. I do like the fact that he apologizes sincerely afterward. I like the fact that his infatuation with Irene (which, at this point, I don't think is sexual - I think it's the same as his infatuation with John or Moriarty - only, Moriarty turned Sherlock off by being evil, whereas Irene was just protecting herself and being brilliant in the meantime)...sorry, that was a long brackety bit...what I was saying was: I like the fact that his infatuation with Irene has broadened his horizons a little bit, I think. He has John, but Irene is someone he cannot hang out with, even though he very much wants to - and I think, because of that, he did understand Molly in that instant. Molly can't have Sherlock, because Sherlock doesn't want Molly - and Sherlock can't have Irene, because of her profession and his brother's disapproval, and the fact that, deep down, Sherlock wouldn't mean the same to Irene as Irene would mean to Sherlock, I don't think. Irene is lovely and brilliant, and I think she does fancy Sherlock's mind a little - but unlike Sherlock, she doesn't ONLY fancy the mind, and she could hold other partners in just as much esteem.
Anyway...I'm getting completely off topic.
I love the fact that Mycroft, John, and Mrs. Hudson have a plan for "danger nights" for Sherlock. I love the fact that in this adaptation, the drugs are an addiction that is fought against, rather than an acceptable tool.
As a complete side note: Benedict has to work on his fake violin playing a little. As a violin player, I did cringe a bit. For the most part he's good though, and it's remarkably hard to fake, so I do give him points for the effort.
John loses another girlfriend to all this of course. These girls just have to get used to the fact that they're always going to be second fiddle to Sherlock Holmes. I wouldn't have a problem with it, personally...I do wish John weren't fictional, I'd be off to England on the next plane.
And Irene's Alive!!
Yay! Not sad anymore...also, AWESOME that they used a fake Mycroft kidnapping - haha, I've seen that done once or twice in fics, but never thought that they'd do it on the show. I know I said at the beginning that I was happy they didn't do a solution that I'd read in fics, but I kind of love this ploy, so I don't mind this one.
Also, heartbreaking that John just wants Irene to tell Sherlock that she's alive so that he won't be sad anymore. *hugs them*
Oh man...
I just...Sherlock....
Mrs Hudson
I love how they do this - the way Sherlock sees it all unfolding. The way he walks in and immediately upon seeing that Mrs. Hudson has been hurt, he doesn't deduce the American's occupation and lifestyle, he instead imagines the ways in which Sherlock can injure him.
And I love that John leaves Sherlock alone with the man, probably knowing full well what's about to happen.
Man, I love how much Sherlock cares for Mrs. Hudson - did I talk about that scene earlier when Mycroft told her to shut-up and they both got mad at him? That was brilliant too.
So, I have this thing where it's very hard for me to recognize women if they change their hair style - especially if they are white brunettes. When Sherlock discovers Irene in his bed, my reaction was not "Oh, it's Irene" it was "Who's that?...Um...maybe Irene? Is it? Ok, next scene...and yes, yes it is. Okay." I really hate that fault in my face-recognition ability. It makes for very awkward times, I basically become like Sherlock with John's girlfriends :P
Oh man...Moriarty's been playing with Mycroft.
Man, okay...just watched straight through to the end without break...so, Irene is KIND of a criminal? Not really? I'm still not sure what her motivations are - she wanted protection, but she only needed protection because of the information. She wanted to get the email decoded and give the information to Moriarty? Terrorists? Why? That part I didn't get. She was playing Sherlock...only, not very well.
And I KNEW when we overheard that bit of Mycroft's conversation that it would be important, but then I was all dazzled and I forgot about it!
Sherlock was indeed played, and it hurt his feelings...but then he got the upper-hand as always. Nicely done. I also love how in the end it's Sherlock who gets the dominatrix to beg.
I also like Mycroft trying to spare Sherlock's feelings...I like that John and him are partners in caring for Sherlock. I also like the fact that Sherlock LETS them. John is a horrible liar, by the way.
I also love that before Sherlock wanted to be a detective, he wanted to be a pirate! SO CUTE!
Also - how the hell did Sherlock get to the middle-east and infiltrate a terrorist cell? Who cares! That was awesome!
I like the end "The Woman...THE Woman."
I love the fact Sherlock's sexuality is still an unanswered question. He obviously is *stimulated* by Irene, but it's intellectual. I have the feeling though, that no woman will ever measure up to Irene, so that's probably it for him for the female gender.
Of course, I also think that Irene's sexuality is a larger unanswered question - as it should be. I did believe her when she said she was gay. Which, by the way, I loved that exchange between John and Irene. I love how Irene tells John flat out that it doesn't matter whether he's gay or not, he and Sherlock are a couple. I think that's how partnerships SHOULD work, nevermind the labels or what people do or do not do in the bedrooms.
I should say something about the cinematography and direction.....it was GORGEOUS. I love the way this show is shot - I really do. I love the use of slow motion, and the text on the screen when people use computers/phones...lovely...it's just a visually stunning show, as well as being amazingly well written and well acted.
I think what I loved about this episode - and I touched on it earlier - is that we got to see domesticity as much as we got to see action and adventure. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes is great and all, but the very heart of the story is this odd domestic partnership between these two men.
I'm sure there's TONS more for me to talk about - I have a feeling I'll be watching this episode all again this evening, even though I spend the entire day on it. Seriously. Woke up at 10 so that I could try to watch it at 12...didn't work at 12, so I napped until 2pm...took me 2.5 hours to watch it, due to load times and internet disruptions....now I'm typing this up while I'm on the phone, hoping that my typing isn't obnoxious enough for the person on the other end of the line to notice...so, it's taking me a bit longer...
So, I'm still not quite sure what to make of Irene...but I liked her overall. I like that she's not a clear-cut criminal, though, yeah, I'd wish I understood her motivations...
Again, I love the domesticity and the fact that we get to see what Sherlock's relationships are like. In the first series, he was very isolated - but now we get to see the intricate relationships he does have. I loved LOVED seeing more of him and Mycroft together.
Anyway...yeah...superb. LOVELY show. And I will watch it again and again and again....
Let me know if there's anything I missed that you desperately want to talk about.
For non-Sherlock fans, who follow me for Supernatural: Last night I had a dream that Sam was possessed by Ellen (though she wasn't a demon, so I don't know how that worked) and it was hilarious and awesome...also, Sam needed reading glasses. He was adorable.
The showdown at the pool
Well, this turned out to be a non-event! That was a surprise. In the past year, I've been picturing bombs and diving into pools - I've been picturing Mycroft swooping in like a Deus Ex Machina....I did NOT picture a cheesy ringtone. I, however, am not disappointed in the slightest. I wanted the unexpected, and even though I had over a year to come up with every scenario possible, they still managed to surprise me.
Also, they still managed to have Moriarty be terrifying. Seriously...if I ever ran into Andrew Scott on the street, I would probably run away out of instinct before my rational brain kicked in and reminded me that he's just a very good actor.
And that slow walk by Irene into the room....man, that woman really is sex on legs.
But, let's move on from the teaser....
I love the passage of time, and seeing John's blog take off, and Sherlock's annoyance with it.
I also love how they worked in the deerstalker!! Brilliant!
The main plot...
I love how brilliantly WITTY this show is. Seriously...it's GOLDEN. The lines are so quick, you almost miss them - but they are absolutely brilliant.
I love John and Sherlock giggling in Buckingham palace. I think where a lot of shows fall down (and I'm not just talking about Sherlock adaptations) but all shows...is that they forget to show the audience why two people love each other so much...but to actually just have the two main characters trading childish jokes and both laughing at them...it's just, refreshing to see. Especially since they could have written John being scandalized that Sherlock wasn't wearing any pants - but instead he finds it hilarious, and OF COURSE he would find it hilarious, Sherlock is his best mate...they HAVE to get along on this level, or else John would have left eons ago. The fact of the matter is that John LOVES Sherlock's insolence just as much as Mycroft hates it.
Oh and Mycroft...such good moments with Mycroft here..."the queen" and
"I'll be mother"
"There's a childhood summed up in a sentence"
Not to mention the other lines "Get off my sheet, Mycroft!" and the line about how Sherlock looks tall because he has a good suit and a short friend. Brilliant.
And then Sherlock actually steals an ashtray for John...oh friendship. Like I said, I love the fact that we SEE it with this series.
And the PUNCHING SCENE!
This is what I love about John Watson - he was both a soldier and a doctor, and most people forget the first part. "You ought to remember, Sherlock, I was a soldier, I killed people." "You were a doctor" "I had bad days!"
John just didn't kill people in the war though - he killed someone the very first night that he met Sherlock, and with absolutely no remorse, I may add. I mean, I know it "wasn't a very NICE man", but I think even killing a bad guy would have SOME effect on most people - but not on John Watson.
And then we get to Irene...
And I like the fact that they kept true to the book, with Sherlock trying to fool her into thinking he's a poor attacked man...and her seeing through the "disguise"...I also like the fact that she doesn't play along.
Also, I love that he can't deduce a naked woman...or, rather, a naked Irene - because he can still deduce John from the state of the skin on his face.
I also love her line "somebody loves you" about how John avoided his nose and teeth when he punched him in the face.
So far (I'm typing this up whenever I have to pause for a bit for the iPlayer to load more) I like what they've done with Irene. They've kept her true to the original Irene, who did not act with any particular malice, nor was she a criminal...they've also made, her, I think, a good reflection of the audience - smart is sexy. Though, I do which I looked like her - at least when it comes to her ass.
And she's dead. Ouch. Well - now I'm sad. Poor Sherlock.
Mycroft and Sherlock...I love the scene in the morgue, the cigarette - the conversation about whether there is something wrong with them because they don't care.
But first let's talk about Christmas...Sherlock not remembering the John's girlfriend's names - awesome. Lestrade! Yay! And then Sherlock tears into Molly...Molly's quite the poor whipping boy in this series, I find. I do like the fact that he apologizes sincerely afterward. I like the fact that his infatuation with Irene (which, at this point, I don't think is sexual - I think it's the same as his infatuation with John or Moriarty - only, Moriarty turned Sherlock off by being evil, whereas Irene was just protecting herself and being brilliant in the meantime)...sorry, that was a long brackety bit...what I was saying was: I like the fact that his infatuation with Irene has broadened his horizons a little bit, I think. He has John, but Irene is someone he cannot hang out with, even though he very much wants to - and I think, because of that, he did understand Molly in that instant. Molly can't have Sherlock, because Sherlock doesn't want Molly - and Sherlock can't have Irene, because of her profession and his brother's disapproval, and the fact that, deep down, Sherlock wouldn't mean the same to Irene as Irene would mean to Sherlock, I don't think. Irene is lovely and brilliant, and I think she does fancy Sherlock's mind a little - but unlike Sherlock, she doesn't ONLY fancy the mind, and she could hold other partners in just as much esteem.
Anyway...I'm getting completely off topic.
I love the fact that Mycroft, John, and Mrs. Hudson have a plan for "danger nights" for Sherlock. I love the fact that in this adaptation, the drugs are an addiction that is fought against, rather than an acceptable tool.
As a complete side note: Benedict has to work on his fake violin playing a little. As a violin player, I did cringe a bit. For the most part he's good though, and it's remarkably hard to fake, so I do give him points for the effort.
John loses another girlfriend to all this of course. These girls just have to get used to the fact that they're always going to be second fiddle to Sherlock Holmes. I wouldn't have a problem with it, personally...I do wish John weren't fictional, I'd be off to England on the next plane.
And Irene's Alive!!
Yay! Not sad anymore...also, AWESOME that they used a fake Mycroft kidnapping - haha, I've seen that done once or twice in fics, but never thought that they'd do it on the show. I know I said at the beginning that I was happy they didn't do a solution that I'd read in fics, but I kind of love this ploy, so I don't mind this one.
Also, heartbreaking that John just wants Irene to tell Sherlock that she's alive so that he won't be sad anymore. *hugs them*
Oh man...
I just...Sherlock....
Mrs Hudson
I love how they do this - the way Sherlock sees it all unfolding. The way he walks in and immediately upon seeing that Mrs. Hudson has been hurt, he doesn't deduce the American's occupation and lifestyle, he instead imagines the ways in which Sherlock can injure him.
And I love that John leaves Sherlock alone with the man, probably knowing full well what's about to happen.
Man, I love how much Sherlock cares for Mrs. Hudson - did I talk about that scene earlier when Mycroft told her to shut-up and they both got mad at him? That was brilliant too.
So, I have this thing where it's very hard for me to recognize women if they change their hair style - especially if they are white brunettes. When Sherlock discovers Irene in his bed, my reaction was not "Oh, it's Irene" it was "Who's that?...Um...maybe Irene? Is it? Ok, next scene...and yes, yes it is. Okay." I really hate that fault in my face-recognition ability. It makes for very awkward times, I basically become like Sherlock with John's girlfriends :P
Oh man...Moriarty's been playing with Mycroft.
Man, okay...just watched straight through to the end without break...so, Irene is KIND of a criminal? Not really? I'm still not sure what her motivations are - she wanted protection, but she only needed protection because of the information. She wanted to get the email decoded and give the information to Moriarty? Terrorists? Why? That part I didn't get. She was playing Sherlock...only, not very well.
And I KNEW when we overheard that bit of Mycroft's conversation that it would be important, but then I was all dazzled and I forgot about it!
Sherlock was indeed played, and it hurt his feelings...but then he got the upper-hand as always. Nicely done. I also love how in the end it's Sherlock who gets the dominatrix to beg.
I also like Mycroft trying to spare Sherlock's feelings...I like that John and him are partners in caring for Sherlock. I also like the fact that Sherlock LETS them. John is a horrible liar, by the way.
I also love that before Sherlock wanted to be a detective, he wanted to be a pirate! SO CUTE!
Also - how the hell did Sherlock get to the middle-east and infiltrate a terrorist cell? Who cares! That was awesome!
I like the end "The Woman...THE Woman."
I love the fact Sherlock's sexuality is still an unanswered question. He obviously is *stimulated* by Irene, but it's intellectual. I have the feeling though, that no woman will ever measure up to Irene, so that's probably it for him for the female gender.
Of course, I also think that Irene's sexuality is a larger unanswered question - as it should be. I did believe her when she said she was gay. Which, by the way, I loved that exchange between John and Irene. I love how Irene tells John flat out that it doesn't matter whether he's gay or not, he and Sherlock are a couple. I think that's how partnerships SHOULD work, nevermind the labels or what people do or do not do in the bedrooms.
I should say something about the cinematography and direction.....it was GORGEOUS. I love the way this show is shot - I really do. I love the use of slow motion, and the text on the screen when people use computers/phones...lovely...it's just a visually stunning show, as well as being amazingly well written and well acted.
I think what I loved about this episode - and I touched on it earlier - is that we got to see domesticity as much as we got to see action and adventure. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes is great and all, but the very heart of the story is this odd domestic partnership between these two men.
I'm sure there's TONS more for me to talk about - I have a feeling I'll be watching this episode all again this evening, even though I spend the entire day on it. Seriously. Woke up at 10 so that I could try to watch it at 12...didn't work at 12, so I napped until 2pm...took me 2.5 hours to watch it, due to load times and internet disruptions....now I'm typing this up while I'm on the phone, hoping that my typing isn't obnoxious enough for the person on the other end of the line to notice...so, it's taking me a bit longer...
So, I'm still not quite sure what to make of Irene...but I liked her overall. I like that she's not a clear-cut criminal, though, yeah, I'd wish I understood her motivations...
Again, I love the domesticity and the fact that we get to see what Sherlock's relationships are like. In the first series, he was very isolated - but now we get to see the intricate relationships he does have. I loved LOVED seeing more of him and Mycroft together.
Anyway...yeah...superb. LOVELY show. And I will watch it again and again and again....
Let me know if there's anything I missed that you desperately want to talk about.
For non-Sherlock fans, who follow me for Supernatural: Last night I had a dream that Sam was possessed by Ellen (though she wasn't a demon, so I don't know how that worked) and it was hilarious and awesome...also, Sam needed reading glasses. He was adorable.
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no subject
Date: 2012-01-02 03:10 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2012-01-02 03:13 am (UTC)I don't think I'm good enough at the Ellen-voice to do my dream justice - plus, I have no idea what her purpose was...but it WAS quite hilarious.
Sebastian annoys the heck out of me, haha...so I'd say your dream wasn't that far off. :P (nothing against him of course, our personalities just aren't compatible at all.)
no subject
Date: 2012-01-02 03:28 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2012-01-02 03:29 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2012-01-02 04:21 am (UTC)You're about the get the full download of my thoughts on it because I'm just not in the right Comms- I don't know where to turn! :D
Firstly, I was worried that S2 wouldn't match up to S1- but the second that the Moriarty's phone rang... I was gone; hooked; won over completely. I *loved* the time-passing-case-solving montage and all the shout outs to fandom and to ACD canon (a Geek translation, ftw!- if you haven't checked that out on John's blog, go do it right now!).
I *love* how easy they are with each other- we really get to see that they're a year on from where we left them. Like you said- the laughter and the joking about, they're all real signs of friendship and proper relationships.
The Hudson/Holmes/Watson dynamic is wonderful- showing us that they've become a family, of sorts. And the Christmas party, reiterating that fact- Molly, Lestrade, etc. They all *know* each other. (Plus, Lestrade was *totally* checking out poor Molly... hello, new OTP).
Re: Irene... there's been some not-happy reactions with her portrayal here, but I loved it. I thought she was wonderful. There's so much ambiguity in the Sherlock/Irene relationship and it was so *charged*, though not necessarily sexually motivated. Like... two cats, circling one another and wondering if they should fight. :D Centering her around the Moriarty over-arc was interesting and I think it works- everyone else so far has been in bed with him. Leaving her out of that would have hurt the plot progression, amongst other things.
I loved the John/Irene conversation- and I loved it even more that Sherlock followed, especially given the 'he doesn't follow me everywhere' comment. Obviously, John, he watches when you leave to make sure you haven't been kidnapped again- just because you don't see him, doesn't mean he isn't there. John was just so... GAH. I love that he was going to tell Sherlock the truth, because it mirrors the ending where he decides the lie would be kinder- even though I'm pretty sure he thinks that Sherlock already knows that she's dead.
I'm also pretty sure that Mycroft knows that she's *not* dead- the 'only Sherlock Holmes could have fooled me' felt too deliberate. (On second watching, that is!).
What else, what else? Oh, yes. The Sherlock/Mycroft interactions... priceless. 'PUT ON YOUR PANTS'. Hilarious. Interesting to see that Mycroft has people that he reports to- so much of fandom has Mycroft as the be-all-and-end-all so it's interesting to see that he has people watching him, too. Also, not trusting the secret service because they're paid to spy on people? LOL.
And... finally... it took me watching it twice to realize that the guy who kidnaps Sherlock is covered in dog hair because he *works for the Queen, and they're her yappy dogs*. That, combined with the implication that the young, female royal was Kate Middleton... my brain is exploding.
And now I'm really, really looking forward to all the fic. Lol. And next week! OMG. Can I survive?! Not sure. Might die of squee first.
Finally, apologies for the rambling. I've been on my own all evening with no-one to squee at. :)
no subject
Date: 2012-01-02 04:46 am (UTC)I too am not in the right Comms! SO TURN TO ME!!
Firstly, I was worried that S2 wouldn't match up to S1- but the second that the Moriarty's phone rang... I was gone; hooked; won over completely. I *loved* the time-passing-case-solving montage and all the shout outs to fandom and to ACD canon (a Geek translation, ftw!- if you haven't checked that out on John's blog, go do it right now!).
I agree! and also YES! John's Blog is AWESOME! :) And Sherlock's website has been updated to him being all pissy that John's is more popular. Lovely :)
The Hudson/Holmes/Watson dynamic is wonderful- showing us that they've become a family, of sorts. And the Christmas party, reiterating that fact- Molly, Lestrade, etc. They all *know* each other. (Plus, Lestrade was *totally* checking out poor Molly... hello, new OTP).
Yes, it's great! I kept saying to Molly "forget about Sherlock being rude to you! Turn around and look at that gorgeous DI who's got a cheating wife!"
There's so much ambiguity in the Sherlock/Irene relationship and it was so *charged*, though not necessarily sexually motivated. Like... two cats, circling one another and wondering if they should fight. :D Centering her around the Moriarty over-arc was interesting and I think it works- everyone else so far has been in bed with him. Leaving her out of that would have hurt the plot progression, amongst other things.
I think some people were put out because they don't understand that love=/=sex. She can be infatuated with Sherlock Holmes and still be gay - just as Sherlock's infatuation with Irene doesn't mean that we have confirmation that he's straight. So, I'll blame people not liking Irene on a failure to understand the complexities of human relationships.
I was really nervous about Irene because I didn't want them to make her into a criminal - I REALLY don't like the Ritchie-verse Irene for that reason. So, although I LOVED the Irene/Sherlock dynamic in this episode, I'm hoping a rewatch will clear up her motivations for me. But yes, I agree, to not have Moriarty involved at all would be bad for the plot progression - and my confusion aside, I did like what they did there.
I loved the John/Irene conversation
Me too, there's SO MUCH THERE. And yeah, as soon as John said "he doesn't follow me everywhere" I thought "I bet he followed you here though." Also, I loved that line because a lot of the time John is seen as 'Sherlock's dog' who follows him everywhere...and here we get the reverse.
The Sherlock/Mycroft interactions... priceless. '
AGREED.
And... finally... it took me watching it twice to realize that the guy who kidnaps Sherlock is covered in dog hair because he *works for the Queen, and they're her yappy dogs*. That, combined with the implication that the young, female royal was Kate Middleton... my brain is exploding.
I LOVED THAT! I was scandalized! Hahaha, I loved how they could get away with it with never actually saying any of the royals' names...but I was sitting there thinking "they can't really insinuate this, can they? I can't believe they're allowed to do this..."
And now I'm really, really looking forward to all the fic. Lol. And next week! OMG. Can I survive?! Not sure. Might die of squee first.
I'm right there with you! At least I already know that a Sherlock episode airing means that my ENTIRE DAY will be consumed with it. Oh man...two more episode....this series is sweet sweet torture...much like a good dominatrix.
no subject
Date: 2012-01-02 05:16 am (UTC)Agreed. Completely. Sherlock’s fascination with her develops because she kicks his ass when they meet first- doses him up, leaves him reeling and later, *breaks into his home and returns his coat*. What’s not to be fascinated by? On her side, she’d never expected him to find the phone in the first place, much less open the safe and dodge the bullet. Hello?! They’re going to mind-lust for each other. That they’re both criminally gorgeous clearly distracts the rest of us. Lol.
I was really nervous about Irene because I didn't want them to make her into a criminal - I REALLY don't like the Ritchie-verse Irene for that reason. So, although I LOVED the Irene/Sherlock dynamic in this episode, I'm hoping a rewatch will clear up her motivations for me. But yes, I agree, to not have Moriarty involved at all would be bad for the plot progression - and my confusion aside, I did like what they did there.
I’m still not certain of her motivations, tbh- perhaps just boredom, much like both Moriarty and Sherlock. She says it herself, that she can create havoc- I’ll have to rewatch (tomorrow) and find what I missed. Though perhaps money and security are enough motivation when you’re in her line of work? She’s pretty morally ambiguous- there’s no indication that she has *any* idea what Moriarty’s plans are for the information and her profession doesn’t appear to be illegal, just… different.
Me too, there's SO MUCH THERE. And yeah, as soon as John said "he doesn't follow me everywhere" I thought "I bet he followed you here though." Also, I loved that line because a lot of the time John is seen as 'Sherlock's dog' who follows him everywhere...and here we get the reverse.
OMG- I hadn’t made that connection AT ALL. I have this image, now, of Sherlock being super-protective. I suppose that’s there in the scene where the CIA guys are threatening to shoot John in the head… also, I can’t help but wonder if the US government should be offended by the portrayal there- clearly willing to murder a civilian (or two) to get information in a foreign country. Not a particularly nice message, there!
I LOVED THAT! I was scandalized! Hahaha, I loved how they could get away with it with never actually saying any of the royals' names...but I was sitting there thinking "they can't really insinuate this, can they? I can't believe they're allowed to do this..."
And the ‘my employer is a great fan of your blog’ bit… OMG. How can they get away with this?! Obviously, becoming a national treasure allows some leeway. Plus, national broadcaster- must have some pull. Perhaps the Palace doesn’t have to pay its TV licence.
Thinking about it now, again, there are so many other bits that stand out to me- everything, really, but I loved Lestrade calling the other police-guy-whose-name-I-don’t-know and asking him not to punch Sherlock. I loved *John* punching Sherlock (‘Someone loves you…’ AW); I loved the helicopter; the ashtray; the ‘I’ll be mother’… And Mrs. Hudson, that if she left, England would fall. The text-tone was so appropriate- and I loved that John was counting; he was noticing, all the time, that Sherlock had this fascination. I loved the last sequence, where John was trying to decide what to tell him- and I firmly believe that Sherlock understood that John was lying to him but that he was going to tell him the truth (as he knew it). That just… oh, my heart.
I also really liked how much time passed- how they brought us right up to New Years, which was really clever. Which year, of course, might be debateable, but it was really cleverly done.
And now its 5am, so I should get some sleep. Dammit, brain, why do you do this to me?!
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Date: 2012-01-02 05:33 am (UTC)Let me know if it's clearer to you on rewatch. I was thinking of rewatching tonight, but I might wait and do a proper rewatch of all 6 episodes later. Like I do with Supernatural.
OMG- I hadn’t made that connection AT ALL. I have this image, now, of Sherlock being super-protective. I suppose that’s there in the scene where the CIA guys are threatening to shoot John in the head… also, I can’t help but wonder if the US government should be offended by the portrayal there- clearly willing to murder a civilian (or two) to get information in a foreign country. Not a particularly nice message, there!
I'm a bit cynical when it comes to the American government, so personally, I don't really think it was a scandalous portrayal, but rather an accurate one...though, again, I'm extremely cynical when it comes to America.
As for Sherlock being super-protective. I can DEFINITELY see that. He's got ONE close friend. And, after all, we saw to what lengths he went to protect Irene, even though he'll never see her again.
Perhaps the Palace doesn’t have to pay its TV licence.
Hahaha, probably not! Though, if I were Kate, I'd probably give them full permission to use me in such a fashion - but then, I'm not exactly royal material ;)
Thinking about it now, again, there are so many other bits that stand out to me...
Same here! I love all the bits you mentioned, and more! It's why I'm thinking I might wait and do a proper rewatch - because then I can painstakingly go through and expound on exactly why those little moments are all brilliant and wonderful.
I also really liked how much time passed- how they brought us right up to New Years, which was really clever. Which year, of course, might be debateable, but it was really cleverly done.
I agree!! I think originally the first series was supposed to have taken place in 2012 - now it seems they scrapped all references to current years - which I like.
5am! My goodness! Get some sleep! It's 9:30pm here, and I just finished supper...now to finish my wine, and decide what if I'm going to do anything at all productive today, or if I'm just going to devote the rest of it to Sherlock as well...I'm leaning towards the latter. ;)
Have a good sleep!
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Date: 2012-01-02 06:01 am (UTC)I agree with pretty much everything you said! I really loved the domesticity we got to see. How they incorporated Sherlock's trademark hat was neat.
I was actually afraid that they had killed Mrs. Hudson for a moment, but I loved that scene.
I don't think Sherlock was sexually attracted to Irene, but he definitely was 'attracted' to her mind and her deviousness. If it's true that Sherlock has never had sex I'm sure Irene was one of the few who tempted him to try it.
I really thought she was dead at the end, and I'm not sure exactly why Sherlock saved her life, but he is great to have done so.
I can't wait to see what the rest of the episodes bring!
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Date: 2012-01-02 06:08 am (UTC)Yay!
I was actually afraid that they had killed Mrs. Hudson for a moment, but I loved that scene.
I knew they wouldn't! Such an event would have been an episode in and of itself!
I don't think Sherlock was sexually attracted to Irene, but he definitely was 'attracted' to her mind and her deviousness. If it's true that Sherlock has never had sex I'm sure Irene was one of the few who tempted him to try it.
Agreed!
I'm really looking forward to the rest of the episodes too!! Of course, last series, we had a stellar first episode, and a mediocre second...so here's hoping they don't make it a tradition, and the next episode is just as good as this one. ;)
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Date: 2012-01-02 10:46 am (UTC)this! Like I also watch Merlin and my main problem with the canon couple is that they always talk about their Epic Love (tm), but I can never see them just enjoying each others presence. With John and Sherlock you see how much they like each other (not only here also the reaction to the blog entries the way Sherlock wants to seem not interested and John is just so adorably amused by it all)
oh my god the Mycroft - Sherlock interactions so much gold. Mycroft is always so collected, but they truly bring out the worst in each other. I mean Sherlock is normally not that bratty and Mycroft not so much a nag, but together? that shows so much interesting stuff happened in their childhood. Because they do love each other in their way. The scene in the morgue was beautiful and the way that Mycroft was sort of slumming it (meeting John in the dingy cafe) just so they could talk about Sherlock.
which leads me to: John - Mycroft friendship! this made me so happy on so many levels. I just love the idea that those very different people get together regulary, because they just love this one person so much and have no-one else to really rely on in this topic.
oh god, I didn't think I had such strong feelings for Molly, but I honest to god squealed when she came on screen. I love her to itty bits. I felt so bad for her and I really liked that Moffat didn't play her humilation for laughs, but actually had Sherlock apologize and show empathy, wow (also I now ship Molly/Lestrad like burning)
I loved Irene, I loved their relationship. I think Benedict did such a good job showing Sherlocks fascination with her, but also that he just couldn't respond on the same level.
I loved Irene being badass and confident and beautiful, but also human enough, enough of a real person. I know some people don't like that at the end her "love" for Sherlock was her downfall and she had to beg, but I actually liked the way they did it. I'm the first to cry foul at bad gender representations, but that's not what this is. In a way, if Irene wouldn't have been like that she would have been the gender fiction stereotype of perfect action girl. I like that she can't resist this man, who must be so interesting and new for her. Just as Sherlock has never met someone like Irene she hasn't met anyone like Sherlock.
I do believe Sherlock that at the beginning the password was like a bit of a joke for her, something to secretly smile at. But she kept it out of sentimentality for this weird relationship they managed to build. And just like Sherlock made a mistake because of it, she made one too. And thats neither male or female that's just human. Sherlock making her beg at the end is also human. It's mean and spiteful, but he was hurt, in a way his tentative tries at real human relationship building was thrown in his face there and he doesn't know how to healthily deal with that hurt.
So tl;dr I enjoyed everything about Irene.
and last but not least John and Sherlock were perfect and poignant and funny and depressing and everything a relationship (be it romantic or platonic) should be
basically I loved every second of it, all the jokes were perfect, Moriarty was super creepy, my heart broke for devastated Mycroft and I now need ALL THE FIC! ALL OF IT!(but especially the pirate!AU with marine officer John being Sherlocks part of the booty...because)
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Date: 2012-01-02 11:23 am (UTC)If I were Kate- I'd be freakin' honoured! I'd understand being offended if it was a crappy show, but this one is WONDERFUL. :D
As for Sherlock being super-protective. I can DEFINITELY see that. He's got ONE close friend. And, after all, we saw to what lengths he went to protect Irene, even though he'll never see her again.
I'm starting to think that they've kept her alive in-canon (and, arguably, made her closer to Sherlock) for future use. I wonder when Sherlock could use a friend who's on the run, eh?
Also, after considered reflection (and some seriously messed up dreams!) I've decided that I *love* Sherlock being portrayed as a bit of a badass- they take down CIA trained killers! Maybe shouldn't be possible, but there ya go. And I also liked that John was being-a-doctor in this one- it was kinda subtly in the background that he was checking people over and looking after them and that was just... yeah. Me like. :D
So, seeing as I have the day off, I'm going to hunt for fic and squeeze a rewatch in. I'm starting to feel really bad for people who can't find it anywhere. I mean... hello? BBC? You're asking them to wait 'till MAY to see it, ffs! Have you *met* Fandom?!
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Date: 2012-01-02 05:48 pm (UTC)However! This is what I am going to comment on: As a complete side note: Benedict has to work on his fake violin playing a little. As a violin player, I did cringe a bit. For the most part he's good though, and it's remarkably hard to fake, so I do give him points for the effort.
I can tell you now, his acting in this bit was THE BEST THING EVER if the last fake playing of an instument you saw was done by a Bollywood actor. I love Shahrukh Khan a lot, but nothing is worse than seeing him fake-play an instrument, especially a violin. :P
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Date: 2012-01-02 08:15 pm (UTC)Haha, very true! I should be thankful for what we were given...like I said, violin playing is VERY hard to fake. Now I kind of want to watch The Red Violin again just to see how the heck they did it in that movie.
I think I agree with you on most points... I think. I can't remember. Wait, yes yes I do. I like your brain, it's like my brain. Or like my brian if I used it more often. :P
Hahaha, thank you! I'm glad you agree. Great minds think alike! (and fools seldom differ) ;)
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Date: 2012-01-02 08:20 pm (UTC)Same here...because I stayed up until 3am watching Sherlock again...then turned off my 9am alarm and slept until noon. Thankfully, I also have the day off, but tomorrow is going to be murder.
I'm starting to think that they've kept her alive in-canon (and, arguably, made her closer to Sherlock) for future use. I wonder when Sherlock could use a friend who's on the run, eh?
I had a very similar thought in the wee hours of the morning. Thinking about it, I actually feel comforted knowing that Irene is still out there - even though she was trying to extort money and has questionable morals, I feel like Sherlock has made a valuable ally.
I've decided that I *love* Sherlock being portrayed as a bit of a badass- they take down CIA trained killers! Maybe shouldn't be possible, but there ya go. And I also liked that John was being-a-doctor in this one- it was kinda subtly in the background that he was checking people over and looking after them and that was just... yeah.
Agreed on all points!
I'm starting to feel really bad for people who can't find it anywhere. I mean... hello? BBC? You're asking them to wait 'till MAY to see it, ffs! Have you *met* Fandom?!
Around midnight last night, I realized that "Sherlock" was one of the top ten twitter trends in Canada...amusing, since it hadn't actually aired here. ;)
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Date: 2012-01-02 08:36 pm (UTC)BRAIIIINS \o/
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Date: 2012-01-02 08:39 pm (UTC)Yes! I've been watching Merlin lately too - and although I didn't have it specifically in mind when I said that, you are quite correct. It's a lot of telling and no showing - which is a big mistake in writing. It's no wonder that I'm not nearly as emotionally invested in that show as I am in Sherlock (or Supernatural).
Mycroft is always so collected, but they truly bring out the worst in each other. I mean Sherlock is normally not that bratty and Mycroft not so much a nag, but together? that shows so much interesting stuff happened in their childhood. Because they do love each other in their way. The scene in the morgue was beautiful and the way that Mycroft was sort of slumming it (meeting John in the dingy cafe) just so they could talk about Sherlock.
Agreed! I found it very interesting, because you're default is too see Mycroft as the wise older brother (or at least my default is that) who knows what's best for Sherlock...yet, when you see them together, or even that conversation in the morgue, you wonder if really Mycroft is a negative influence on Sherlock. I mean, he straight out tells Sherlock not to care about people - even though, I believe, that caring about people is exactly what Sherlock needs to learn to do. It's a VERY interesting dynamic, because of course, you can't argue that Mycroft doesn't love Sherlock...but there's a good chance that Mycroft might be just as misguided as Sherlock in the world, if not more so, since Mycroft doesn't have a John Watson.
John - Mycroft friendship! this made me so happy on so many levels. I just love the idea that those very different people get together regulary, because they just love this one person so much and have no-one else to really rely on in this topic.
Agreed! It also shows what I was just talking about...at the end of the episode, Mycroft leaves the final decision regarding Sherlock's emotional state to John...he TRUSTS John with his brother.
I felt so bad for her and I really liked that Moffat didn't play her humilation for laughs, but actually had Sherlock apologize and show empathy, wow (also I now ship Molly/Lestrad like burning)
Agreed! And I'm now also shipping Molly/Lestrade like burning!)
I know some people don't like that at the end her "love" for Sherlock was her downfall and she had to beg, but I actually liked the way they did it. I'm the first to cry foul at bad gender representations, but that's not what this is. In a way, if Irene wouldn't have been like that she would have been the gender fiction stereotype of perfect action girl.
I agree on all points. Also, this isn't so much about "love," it's about a power play - Sherlock states that right at the beginning. Making her beg was Sherlock winning the power play, it's as simple as that...the fact that he was able to do so because of her emotions is no more different than her getting him to decode the email for her because of HIS emotions. And I do firmly believe, that at the end when he saves her, it's her winning the power play just as much - though, it's also the end of it. The game is over, they were both very gracious losers, and now their non-relationship can move onto one of mutual admiration, rather than struggles for dominance.
I've got off topic...basically I'm saying that although I really didn't want Irene to be a true villain, and she kind of did turn out to be a bit of one, I still very much like everything about Irene.
basically I loved every second of it, all the jokes were perfect, Moriarty was super creepy, my heart broke for devastated Mycroft and I now need ALL THE FIC! ALL OF IT!(but especially the pirate!AU with marine officer John being Sherlocks part of the booty...because)
AGREED! Hahaha, oh Pirate!Sherlock...you would have been adorable. :)
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Date: 2012-01-02 09:02 pm (UTC)This is how I feel! It's like... she may have been a bit evil (just a bit- she didn't *know* that Moriarty is as bad a dude as he is) but she was clever and she seems to have genuinely cared about Sherlock. She was persistent and clever and hilarious (the *look* on his face when he was stoned was worth the whole internet) and I love thinking that she might be back. Plus, wonderful opportunity for fic. :D
Around midnight last night, I realized that "Sherlock" was one of the top ten twitter trends in Canada...amusing, since it hadn't actually aired here. ;)
LOL! That is brilliant. The BBC have really missed a trick, I think, in not getting the show out to everyone at the same time. Maybe they don't realize how good it really is?
I'm already starting to wonder about season three, now. I really hope they can get M.F and B.C signed up for it ASAP, because they're both really popular, all of a suddenly.
Also, it really, really amuses me that the Sherlock Holmes movie has only just been released in the last month... and the BBC 'verse just crept in there and stole their thunder. I can't take RDJ seriously as Holmes anymore- just impossible. Though I do love Noomi Rapace so I might have to force myself to watch it sometime...
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Date: 2012-01-02 09:22 pm (UTC)I think the BBC knows it's good - but like a lot of corporations/executives, they are hung up on issues of copyright and distribution. The fact of the matter is that the internet has revolutionized the industry, yet distribution/production companies don't know how to change with the times and are clinging to the old ways. They could make a MINT if they could figure out how to monetize a simultaneous world-wide internet release - but instead, they're trying to limit the release to the UK (impossible with fandom work-arounds) and distribute the show to other countries under the old system. I'd say it was like trying to teach a dinosaur how to drive a car, but that would be an insult to the dinosaur. :P
I'm already starting to wonder about season three, now. I really hope they can get M.F and B.C signed up for it ASAP, because they're both really popular, all of a suddenly.
Yeah, I mean...I of course WANT a S3, but I'm operating under the belief that there actually won't be one - just because that way it won't hurt as much if there isn't.
Also, it really, really amuses me that the Sherlock Holmes movie has only just been released in the last month... and the BBC 'verse just crept in there and stole their thunder. I can't take RDJ seriously as Holmes anymore- just impossible.
Haha, I agree. I'm probably going to wait and watch the RDJ movie on DVD or something. I saw the first one in theatre, but it was the $6 theatre that has since closed down...I just don't see myself paying $12 for a movie adaption of Sherlock Holmes that, while fun, will pale in comparison to the BBC'verse.
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Date: 2012-01-03 12:23 am (UTC)So much, this! If I have to listen to his RJD's dodgy English accent, then I'm definitely going to do it as cheaply as possible.
I've rewatched again today, and I'm still torn about Adler's motivations. BUT, on the rewatch I noticed that when Irene mentions Moriarty and Mycroft responds that 'he's been trying to get my attention', she seems shocked. I don't think she knew half of what he was about- and when she sends that text off to tell him about the flight, she looks kind of... torn.
I think she'll be back- or that she'll be mentioned again with regard to Moriarty. There must be a reason for Sherlock to have saved her and for her to have been so involved with Moriarty... I think. Lol.
I expect you are correct re: dinosaurs & driving. Poor, hapless BBC. How frustrating must it be to be sitting on a gold mine and have no way to get that dinosaur to drive? :D
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Date: 2012-01-03 12:46 am (UTC)Speaking of which - do you know if the actor who played the American was actually American? I don't know if his accent sounded OTT because he was a Brit trying to mimic, or if it was just because he was surrounded by British accents and his was the only American one.
I've rewatched again today, and I'm still torn about Adler's motivations. BUT, on the rewatch I noticed that when Irene mentions Moriarty and Mycroft responds that 'he's been trying to get my attention', she seems shocked. I don't think she knew half of what he was about- and when she sends that text off to tell him about the flight, she looks kind of... torn.
I'm the same...I think that she got in touch with Moriarty because she wanted A)protection and B)money....and she didn't really know the extent of Moriarty's plans or evilness. Though, why she was unfazed by a plane full of dead bodies, I don't know...
I think she'll be back- or that she'll be mentioned again with regard to Moriarty. There must be a reason for Sherlock to have saved her and for her to have been so involved with Moriarty... I think. Lol.
Haha, my thoughts exactly. It was a risky move to save her - and after everything, I don't see Sherlock taking such a risk without really thinking it through - despite any sentiment that he might have for her.
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Date: 2012-01-03 01:38 am (UTC)He's from Ohio, though, so that would pin his accent as natural and just a bit out of place, maybe. Probably just that he was the only one and it made him stand out a wee bit.
I'm the same...I think that she got in touch with Moriarty because she wanted A)protection and B)money....and she didn't really know the extent of Moriarty's plans or evilness. Though, why she was unfazed by a plane full of dead bodies, I don't know...
No choice? Thinking Mycroft was just a weirdo? I'm not sure how much of their conversation she heard- did Mycroft have her brought there? Did she come along on her own? When did she find time to get dressed? There are so many questions... :D
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Date: 2012-01-03 01:56 am (UTC)There are so many questions... :D
There really are...I mean, who the heck knows what Moriarty told her and what he didn't.
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Date: 2012-01-03 02:10 am (UTC)Can't wait for next week. Might need to induce a coma or something to tide myself over. I haven't been so ridiculously excited for a TV show since... maybe ever, actually. It's kind of pathetic but I consider the global recession a valid reason for finding love and joy and fluffiness wherever I can. :D
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Date: 2012-01-03 02:15 am (UTC)This is my reasoning as well. I may be drowning in debt with no way out, but at least I have Sherlock!!
As far as the American accent thing goes though - I think a lot of Americans speak a sort of "standard American" that isn't so harsh, or at least, if a little more similar to your standard Canadian than it is to the "American Twang"...whereas that actor was probably sounding like he was from Ohio without trying to mask anything. So, yeah, jarring.
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Date: 2012-01-03 02:53 am (UTC)And as neither of us are living in the UK, we both get it without having to pay the TV license fee. Win. ;)
You're probably right about the accent thing- he may well have been asked to talk it up a bit, make it more pronounced than usual just for the show. Or perhaps he simply wasn't told to tone it down. :D Ohioans: confusing people across the globe with their funny accents. Should come with a warning. :)
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Date: 2012-01-03 03:07 am (UTC)This is why the internet is my friend - and practically the only thing I'm willing to spend $40/month on. ;) (that may or may not be more than a TV license fee, but at least I get to watch all programs more than once...and then chat about them for days afterward.)
Ohioans: confusing people across the globe with their funny accents. Should come with a warning. :)
Hahaha, indeed.
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Date: 2012-01-03 03:15 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2012-01-03 03:41 am (UTC)Though, I should say that I DO support shows by buying the DVDs - as it's only fair.
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Date: 2012-01-03 04:06 am (UTC)I have a terrible habit of buying the DVDs for a show and then watching the show again on the internet, anyway, because then I can have my email or skype or LJ or whatever open too and I won't have to bother with the remote.
That's both terribly lazy and something I shouldn't admit to. But I'm gradually losing my shame as I get older. LOL.
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Date: 2012-01-03 04:14 am (UTC)I don't actually own a TV set anymore, so whether it's DVDs or downloads EVERYTHING gets watched on my laptop.
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Date: 2012-01-03 01:31 pm (UTC)I could definitely live without my TV, but if someone tried to take my computer away from me... there'd be war. I'd attack 'em with forks.
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Date: 2012-01-03 08:32 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2012-01-03 10:28 pm (UTC)Duh, me. :D