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Monday, December 24, 2012

Merlin Season 5 Episode 12: The Diamond of the Day Part 1


Don’t read if you haven’t seen the episode
 
Morgana prepares to wage war on Arthur and Camelot. But before doing so, she wanted to eliminate her biggest threat, Emyrs. Morgana acquired a creature called Gean Canach. It is said that the creature was created from the tear of Earth Mother Nemaine. It has the power to strip a sorcerer or sorceress of their power. Morgana tested it with one of her allies named Ari. When it worked and all of Ari’s magic was gone, Morgana ordered one of Saxons to sneak in to Camelot and bring near Merlin. The creature was waiting for Merlin in his room and was able to successfully drain him of his magic. Good thing Gauis was there to save the Merlin and killed the creature with a shovel. Merlin realizes that his magic was gone. Gauis and Merlin learned that there is a chance to retrieve his magic by going to the Crystal Cave located in the Valley of the Kings .
 
Later on Morgana started the siege on Stawell Garrison north of Camelot. Morgana and Mordred teamed up and use a spell that created something that looks like a burning meteorite falling from the sky. The Lone survivor from the Garrison is Eira. Later it is revealed that Gwaine’s lover, Eira, is as a spy for Morgana and has got vital information on Camelot’s plans against Morgana’s Hordes. She also informed Gwaine taking Merlin to the Valley of the Kings . Mordred then informs Morgana about the Crystal Cave being the origin of Magic. Morgana then went to the Crystal Cave and trapped Merlin inside. Arthur and the other Knights were in Camlann and were waiting for Morgana’s troops. Mordred has found a secret route to enable them to flank Arthur.
 
Merlin was awakened by the spirit of his father, Balinor. He informed him that he could regain his magic by Believing in himself. Merlin eventually regained his Magic. He saw visions inside the cave and using magic he informs Arthur of Morgana’s plan to flank them.
 
Back in Camlann Arthur and his men are outnumbered by five to one. Arthur ordered Gwaine and Percival to meet the group who plans to flank them. Arthur is with Leon and they faced the rest of Morgana’s troops. Mordred is the battlefield as well with the sword forged by Aithusa while Morgana was just watching on top of a Cliff. The entrance of Crystal Cave is blewn apart by Magic and Dragoon the Great appears.
 
I enjoyed watching this episode. Although there are some parts that I didn’t like. The Tavern scene at the beginning of the episode is unnecessary. The way Merlin got back his magic was way too easy. He just slept in the cave and then he regains it. It should have been a full episode and should have put in the series instead for the Gwen Arc. Remember the part when she was under Morgana’s spell? Morgana could have killed Merlin but instead she took the chance of trapping him and keeping him alive. So it is expected that Morgana and Merlin would face off with Merlin disguised as Dragoon the great. I think it might have been better if Merlin fights without disguise. I would expect that the Kilgarrah - Aithusa will be in next episode? Will it even happen?
 
With only one episode left, I hope they fill everything in. The answers the fans are waiting for and I really hope they end the series well.  
 
 

Arrow Season 1 Episode 9: Year's End


Don’t read if you haven’t seen the episode

Christmas season is just around the corner in Starling City. Oliver is trying to put things back to normal by hosting a Christmas Party in Queen’s Mansion after learning that the Moira, Thea and Walter ceased to celebrate it after Oliver and Robert’s disappearance 5 years back.

In the Meanwhile, an archer is terrorizing the city killing people on the list starting with Adam Hunt. Detective Lance is hot on the trail and is not convinced that the vigilante that they call the “hood” is behind the killing. First the arrows used in the killing are not consistent with the arrows used by their vigilante.

Oliver enlisted Detective Lance’s help by acquiring illegally the arrows found in the crime scene. Reluctant at first, the good detective gave the arrows and Oliver started his search. Using one of Queen Consolidated’s employees, Felicity Smoke, Oliver discovered that the Arrow was purchased in bulk and was shipped to a warehouse in Starling City.

Flashback shows a glimpse of Oliver’s past in the Island. Oliver has been trapped in their Cave and has run out of food and water. His saviour Yao Fei has brought him food and water and has brought Oliver’s captor, Edward Fyers. Fyers was caught by Yao Fei and Oliver immediately started to attack him. Yao Fei interfered and suggested that Oliver take his life but that would also mean that he would have to forfeit his chance to escape the island. Later it was revealed that Fyers was captured willingly to setup a trap for Yao Fei. Yao Fei was then captured by Fyers men with the help of Deathstroke. Oliver was able to escape and the flashback ended.

Back to Starling City, the new archer has lead Oliver to trap using hostages as bait. Oliver was shot twice at the back and was about to get his identity revealed but eventually Oliver got the upper hand and was able to knock his opponent out.

Oliver was able to escape with the help of John Diggle. Oliver has awakened in a hospital bed and Diggle provided an Alibi that he was caught in a motorcycle accident. It is then revealed that the masked archer is Malcolm Merlyn. Also in this episode, Walter has discovered more than he should when he found the Moira’s notebook with the list of people who are part of the secret organization that Oliver is targeting. He was drugged and kidnapped. Moira then talks to Malcolm and the later guaranteed that he won’t be harmed and that in six months, their plans would have been finished.
It makes a lot more sense that Malcolm Merlyn is the Merlyn in the Comic books. In the comics, Merlyn is older than Oliver and was his mentor turned arch nemesis. I just hope that they don’t copy the Spiderman plot were the Green Goblin was originally Norman Osborn and later became his son, Harry Osborn. The Show still keeps on coming up with answers but gives us more questions. It has been a great season so far. I hope that they don’t dwell on the Tommy Laurel plot as it seems like it is taking too much air time not unless their building up something that would eventually end the Tommy and Oliver friendship. I am glad the Thea rambling is bearable in this episode. I would want to see more of John Diggle using his ex-military skills into good use in the future episodes.

We have to wait a little longer for the next episode. Arrow’s next episode entitled “Burned” would air on January 16, 2013

Leverage Cancelled after Five Season


Leverage is one of the best shows that I have been watching in the past few years. I am sorry to hear that it has been cancelled and there won’t be a six season. Leverage is about of group of people comprised of a hacker, grifter, thief, hitter and a former insurance investigator turned mastermind Nathan Ford. But instead hitting their marks for financial gains, they help out those people who need it using unconventional means. During the series, the four criminal experts on their respective field has changed their ways and used their talent to help those who could not be help with the legal systems. Nathan also went over the opposite side of the law and was on the brink of going way over the edge. But with the help of his colleagues, they were able to keep him in check.

One of the motivations of Ford was to exact revenge on his former employer IYS insurance run by Ian Blackpoole. Blackpoole refused to pay for the medical expenses of Ford’s son, Sam, which resulted to his death. The partnership of five man team began when Ford was hired by Victor Dubenich, an aerospace executive who deceived the team from stealing aeronautical plans which was first thought to Dubenich’s designs. Dubenich later tried to have them all killed and refuses to give them the payment. The team had their revenge which led to Dubenich’s arrest by the FBI. Instead of going their separate ways, the team decided to stick together and they appointed Ford as their leader with the condition that Ford chooses the jobs that they will accept.

The show had a great run and had great episodes during the first three seasons. However during the 4th season, it seems that the writers are running out of great materials to write and some of the cons seem impossible to pull off. Personally I think it is great show, although the long break between episodes must have had a big effect on the shows rating. I will surely miss this show although I hope that they give fans a satisfying series finale. The last episode of the series entitled “'The Long Goodbye Job” will air on Christmas day.

Merlin Season 5 Episode 11: The Drawing of the Dark


Don’t read if you haven’t seen the episode

Arthur and his Knights stumbles upon a wreckage of supply cart bound to Camelot. Arthur assumed that it was the work of Saxons. Mordred sees a cloaked figure leaving the scene. Mordred was able to catch the person and it was revealed that it was Kara, Mordred’s friend and love interest. He ordered her to escape but Merlin saw him doing so. Mordred told Arthur and the others that it was just a deer.
Mordred then sneaks into Gauis and Merlin’s house and stole some healing potions. Later in the night, Mordred went back to the woods and found Kara. Using he potions that he stole, he healed her. Merlin caught Mordred sneaking back into the castle. When he confronted him, he confessed that he knew Kara since they were young and that she is a druid. He made Merlin promise not to tell Arthur.

The next day, Arthur and Merlin found the trail left by Mordred. Eventually they found Kara. When Arthur’s guard was down, Kara attempted to kill him but Merlin used his magic to foil Kara’s plan. She was then taken to Camelot to stand trial. Kara confessed in killing the people in the Camelot Patrol. Bound by Camelot’s law, Arthur had no choice but to sentence her to death. Mordred confronted Merlin and told him that he has gone too far and he will pay for his acts.

Mordred pleaded for Kara’s life but Arthur had refuses to rescind his decision. During their conversation Mordred realize that Merlin did not betray him. Knowing Modred, Merlin followed him to talk him out of it. Mordred refused to let her die and told Merlin that he knows that he never betrayed him but warned not to betray him then.

Mordred freed Kara and was about to escape Camelot. Arthur and the knights cornered them eventually. Mordred pleaded with Arthur and promised him that they will never come back to Camelot if they promise to let them go. Arthur refuses bound by his duties to Camelot. With sword drawn, Mordred was prepared to fight his friends for Kara’s sake. Kara told him to used magic to kill them. When he was just about to use magic, Percival knocked him out.

Back in Camelot, Arthur was having difficulty in making a decision on what to do with Mordred. He gave Kara a final chance to repent but she refuses and told Arthur that he deserves what is about to happen to Camelot. Kara was put to death by hanging.

Mordred was angered and escaped using a powerful magic that blew his cell doors apart. He then went to search for Morgana and offered a truce. And in return he offers information on the sorcerer that she is seeking for, Emrys. He told him that he is in Camelot and all along she is looking for Merlin.
In the preview of the next episode, Morgana and Mordred prepare to wage war on Camelot. Merlin is captured and is unable to use his Magic. The Battle of Camlann has started. With two episodes left in the series, it seems that Merlin will reveal his Magic on the last episode. I hope the years of waiting for Merlin to reveal his magic would be all worth it. I just wish that they don’t just cram it in one episode only.

The Diamond of the Day part 1 is scheduled to air on Dec 22, 2012 and the series finale two days after just a day before Christmas

Person of interest Season 2 Episode 10: Shadow Box


Don’t read if you haven’t seen the episode
 
Reese and Finch receives Abby Monroe’s number who works for a military charity. Her brother was killed in Afghanistan 18 months ago. A few days back Abby has moved out of her apartment and has dumped her Cellphone.
 
Back in the Precinct, Special agent Donnelly informs Carter that they will be searching for the man in the suit again and has asked Carter to join the FBI temporarily. He informs her that with her skills the assignment might become permanent. Carter immediately calls Finch to tell him of the situation. Finch informs Carter that Reese is in a Department of City planning. Later Carter discovers that Reese is posing as a Federal Marshal to get information Abby who used to work there. Abby copied files that have engineering drawings of buildings somewhere in Wall Street. Carter warns Reese that Donnelly is after him now but Reese already knew since he was listening in to their conversation.
 
Reese and Finch watched footage from a motorcycle robbery given by Carter as Reese has requested. They assumed that the Robber had prosthetic arm and is possibly former military. Carter informs them that the motorcycle is involved in a robbery of Plastic explosive in a construction site in New Jersey days before.
Carter had no choice but to put an APB on Abby’s name. Finch told Reese that Abby couldn’t have them involve in terrorism since her number to the authorities instead. Finch traced a pay phone that Abby used in the past and had Reese check it out.
 
Reese discovered that the phone was tapped and was connected to a nearby apartment. Reese investigates and found where Abby was staying. He also saw the medals awarded to her brother. Finch went digging further in the Charity where Abby used to work in. He talks to the manager, Philip Chapple, and was told that she was stealing petty cash and embezzling the charity’s fund. Chapple informs Finch that Abby changed when one of the veterans, Shayn Coleman visited the Charity. They later discovered that Shayn lost his arm while diffusing a bomb in Afghanistan .
 
 
Later Shayn crosses path with Finch while they were searching for information inside the Charity. Finch and Shayn worked together to find information and later left together while Chapple’s men were shooting at them. Reese also meets Abby. He told him that he was soldier before as well but unlike her brother Josh he was lucky that he survived. Reese and Shayn eventually talks on the phone and agrees to meet. They went their separate ways after.
 
Also in the episode, Fusco starts to be suspicious about Carter’s new friend Cal Beecher. When he asked a fellow detective he was told that Beecher is suspicious faring better financially than others but don’t have enough evidence to support that he is on the take. He eventually clones Beecher ’s phone and learned that he is meeting with someone. He sees Beecher talking to Quinn but does not have an Idea who Quinn is. Simmons then appears behind him and informs Fusco that he is watching him. Quinn was asking about crimes in Crown heights where a Russian named Peter Yogorov is involved. It seems like HR would negotiate a deal with the Russian to strengthen their ranks.
 
Finch was able to locate Abby and Shayn. They also discovered that Chapple is involved with a scheme with an investment bank where he takes a cut on the profits of foreclose properties of those who ask for a loaned in their charity. They also discovered that Chapple had a safety deposit box in the bank where he keeps his profits.
 
Reese goes to the bank but ended up helping Shayn and Abby. But they were cut-off by Chapple’s men and shooting began. The FBI is also hot in their trail. They found Reese’s location and the FBI team were outside the bank and was starting to sweep the bank. Reese was cornered and eventually captured. Good thing is Chapple’s men are all wearing suits which made it hard for the FBI identify Reese. Abby and Shayn was able to escape and meet Finch inside the Bank. He has provided fake IDs for both to avoid capture. Later Abby and Shayn gave Finch copies of Chapple’s entire money trail. Finch promised to bankrupt Chapple’s bank accounts and give to charity.
 
 
Now that Reese was captured he will definitely be on the FBI Radar. I wonder if Finch erased all his records and fabricated a new one. Definitely they will check for prints and Military records might still be on the system. Remember the machine has just tagged him as missing. Now HR is seeking the Russian’s help to re-establish their organization. If that is so it would be interesting to see what will happen next since the Russian would definitely have a grudge against Elias who threw them out of Brighton Beach . Off course you would to consider Ruth and I definitely sure we haven’t heard the last of her.
 

Person of interest Season 2 Episode 9: C.O.D


The next number that the machine gave Reese and Finch belongs to a cab driver named Fermin Ordonez. Fermin was former Baseball player who defected from Cuba . His Baseball skills was the reason why he got in to the states and should have been the way to free Fermin’s son and wife from Cuba as well. But since he tore a ligament and retired from baseball, he had to come up with the money as a cab driver to pay a person by the name of Senor Mendoza to bring his family to the states. Unfortunately for Fermin, Mendoza was greedy and has double the 40 thousand that he initially asked for to bring both of them to the states.
 
To make things worst, Fermin drove a passenger by the name of Vadim Pushkov the previous night that is involve with the Estonian Mob. Pushkov asked Fermin to drive around the park several times to get the second half of a 100 dollar fare if he complies with his request. Unfortunately, Pushkov didn’t return to cab which left Fermin to sell his laptop for his troubles.
 
The next day secret service is in the Park and found the body of Pushkov. Carter meets one of her colleagues Detective Terney while checking the location where Fermin’s cab stayed for 25 minutes using the taxi’s GPS log. Carter meets the head agent Regina Vickers. The secret agent has been trying to finding what Pushcov is doing in the park with no luggage since he arrive in JFK the day before and ends up dead a few hours after.
 
Fermin then picks up a blonde and told him to drive to Queens . Later she asked if he has seen Pushkov and he immediately lies. She left in a hurry and then Reese gets in the cab and warns Fermin that he is in danger. They barely escaped a group of Estonian trying to kill Fermin.
 
Fermin later confess that he Pushkov left his laptop but had to sell it since he didn’t pay for the fair. Finch discovers Pushkov is a hacker who has stolen confidential information from several countries before. It is later revealed that the secret service is looking for him since he has stolen something of great importance but still doesn’t know what it is.  
 
Meanwhile, HR is trying to get to Elias’ good side by offering the location of the last surviving don, Grifoni, who has gone under witness protection. They meet with Elias’ right hand Scarface but Elias’ wants HR to deliver Grifoni to them instead of them picking him up. Fusco is in a bind as he was tasked to pick up Grifoni in exchange HR will keep his secret for the murder of Internal Affairs Detective Ian Davidson. Fusco eventually agrees but they were double crossed leaving the man who is tasked to pick up Grifoni with Fusco dead. Elias made a deal with Grifoni instead.
 
Back to Pushcov, Fermin sold the laptop to his friend but was eventually killed for it. Finch searched the net for leads on the laptop. He found the laptop and it was being sold for $50,000. Finch asked Reese to pickup it up but Reese only found an empty room with a camera attached to one of its wall. Finch piggybacked the signal from the Webcam and found the location of the seller who goes by the name of D3mn8. In Yeongson Pool Hall Finch brought bear and met with D3mn8 and doubled the price to $100,000. If informed him that he is danger like everyone who has knowledge of the laptop.
 
The blonde who rode Fermin’s cab is Irina Kapp, a member of the Estonian mob was waiting for Finch. She told him to hand it over but he refuses. Bear barks at the Estonian and as they were about to shot the dog, Reese swoops in and saves them.
 
Fermin eventually decides to surrender the laptop but asked Vickers to help bring his Family from Cuba to the country. Ultimately they were reunited. Back to Fusco, Simmons is wondering why he was kept alive. Fusco tells Simmons that Elias wanted to send HR a message “Go to hell”. Fusco also agrees with Elias and told off Simmons which angers the later. Simmons then makes an anonymous tip to Carter about Davidson. He told Carter that he was killed by a cop.
 
This is another great episode for this show. They seem to have great stories line up for the show. Since Elias has no intention of joining forces with HR, Simmons and his boss Quinn would have to find a different partner. Fusco put in the mix makes it more interesting. He is genuinely trying to get out of HR’s hold but his past is a hindrance to his goal. While Simmons still holding evidence against Fusco, we would still have control over him. Although there are no Flashbacks, the CIA or the FBI involve in this episode, the main plot is still highlighted.
 

Donaire beats Pacquiao for pound-for-pound ranking


Nonito Donaire Jr. also known as the Filipino Flash has gone up from 6th to 5th place in the Ring Magazine’s Mythical Pound for pound ranking. This is courtesy of his phenomenal 3rd round win over his Mexican opponent Jorge Arce last Dec 15, 2012. Currently he holds the WBO super bantamweight title. He has won his last 30 bouts and has never lost since 2001.
 
Currently there are four boxers who outrank Donaire in the pound for pound ranking. The unbeaten Floyd Mayweather Jr. is still on top of the ranking followed by Andre Ward at No.2. Juan Manuel Marquez after winning spectacularly against Manny Pacquiao is in the third place while Sergio Martinez ranks at 4th.
 
Donaire won the vacant WBO super Bantamweight belt after winning the bout against Wilfredo Vasquez Jr. via Split Decision last February 04, 2012. He then retained the title and won IBF super bantamweight title from Jeffrey Mathebula winning by a unanimous decision last July 07. Last October, he won the vacant title the ring and WBC Diamond super bantamweight title after beating Toshiaki Nishioka. Donaire relinquished IBF Super Bantamweight before the fight. Donaire is only the second Asian to achieve championship title in four divisions. Manny Pacquiao was the first. He is running for the fighter of the year award for performance this year.
 
Pacquiao on the other hand has dropped to 7th place after losing to Marquez.  Before losing to Marquez he lost to American Timothy Bradley and lost his WBO welterweight belt via controversial Split Decision lost. Hailed as the fighter of the decade years ago, I am sure Manny Pacquiao will be back on his feet. I just wonder if Pacquiao and Donaire will eventually meet in the future. Who will you root for if that match happens?

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Arrow Season 1 Episode 8: Vendetta


Don’t read if you haven’t seen the episode
 
Helena Bertinelli continues her quest for vengeance as she targets the head of the Triad but Oliver was there to stop her. Reluctant at first, Helena agreed to let Oliver teach her how to bring down his father without any unnecessary killing. Diggle doesn’t approve Oliver’s partnership with Helena as he had told Oliver that she can’t be trusted. Oliver goes through with his plan hoping that Helena would turn a new leaf. He thought her how to conceal her identity and tried to teach her how to use an arrow. But instead he gave her a crossbow.
 
Tommy Merlyn is still unemployed and Laurel suggested that he ask Oliver for a job with the new night club that Oliver is planning to start. Tommy and Laurel met Helena and Oliver on a restaurant. Helena suggested that Tommy and Laurel join them in the table since the two are still waiting for their table. Things started to go weird as Helena learned that Oliver used to date Laurel who is now dating his best friend. Helena stormed out of the restaurant and the two had a fall out. Tommy and Laurel also had a fight since Laurel unintentionally embarrassed him by asking Oliver for the Job before Tommy was able to talk to him.
 
Helena then targeted the Triad and managed to kill the head but before leaving he told one of the survivors that Frank Bertinelli was responsible for the hit. The Triad retaliated and China White led her men to Bertinelli residence and killed most of the men guarding it. With all the commotion, Frank opened his safe and took the laptop that holds evidence of the crime that he and his former associate, Nick Salvati, committed.  As he was trying to escape Helana shot him with an arrow and revealed that she was responsible for the killing of his associates and ruining of his company. She was about to kill him when Oliver shot an arrow that threw the crossbow a few feet away. She then started to fight Oliver when Frank got the crossbow and shot Helena . Oliver then knocked Frank asleep and rescued Helena before the cops arrest her.
 
Back in his hideout, Helena was still angry that Oliver tried to stop her from killing her father. She was not satisfied with him just being arrested. She believes that she will get justice on when his father is dead. Tommy then asked Oliver for the job and told him that he was cut off from his trust fund. Oliver immediately agreed to hire him.
 
The episode is not bad. Although I think that Helena ’s jealously over Laurel being the cause for their breakup and her refusal to take a more righteous path is quite lame. But then again she is already unstable as it is. As Oliver has mentioned that she has already gone over the edge. We all learn that the first name of Tommy’s father is Malcolm.
 
I just don’t get one thing though. In the previous episodes Oliver seems to be pulling away from Tommy but in this episode it seems that they like friends again. I don’t know if it is just me but he is always cold when talking to Tommy in the previous episode. Did anyone notice it?
 
When China White got shot with an arrow, does that mean she is dead since there were no indications after the attack in the Bertinelli residence that she is alive? If she is already dead then that sucks! I hope she isn’t. She was great opponent for the Green Arrow. I guess this is goodbye to the Huntress for now. We all have to wait if she returns again in future episodes.
 
 
 
 

Person of interest Season 2 Episode 8: Til Death

Don’t read if you haven’t seen the episode
Finch and Reese got their hands full when the Machine gave them two numbers, Sabrina and Daniel Drake.  They are married since 1992 and are co-owners of a publishing house. Finch breaks into their apartment while Reese infiltrates the Publishing Company.
Inside the office Sabrina and Daniel talks to Henry Brooks. Sabrina refuses to sell the company while Daniel suggested that they should the board cast a vote. Henry pointed out that since Sabrina and Daniel owns majority of the stocks, their votes are the only one that counts.
Reese decided to guard Sabrina while Daniel is being watched by Finch. As Sabrina is about to reach her car and unknown man plants a bomb. Reese took the bomb and disarms it in alley nearby. The bomb is can be triggered using a cellphone. Reese took down the number that registered in the screen. Finch then overheard Daniel’s conversation with a man named Santi. They realized that Daniel tried to have her wife killed. Santiago is a childhood friend of Daniel and wasn’t fond of Sabrina.
Later on a book signing, Reese and Finch realizes that there was another threat. Reese spots a sniper in a building with a clear shot of Sabrina. As Finch was monitoring the Sabrina’s phone, a text message was sent giving the go signal to sniper to shoot. They then realized that Sabrina also wanted her husband killed. Reese bumped to Daniel and he never realized that he saved him.
Realizing that they won’t stop until one them is dead; Reese with the reluctant help of Detective Carter kidnapped both of them.  Finch acts as a marriage counsellor to help them resolve their difference. Eventually Sabrina told them details about the man who is supposed to kill Daniel. She tried to call off the killers but the contact number that they provided is now unreachable.  Daniel then admitted that he tried to call Santi to call off the hit but wasn’t able to reach him as well.
They brought them back their house to lure the killers to them. Eventually they came for them and Reese with the help of Fusco and Carter was able to stop them from killing the Drakes. The Drakes were then arrested but refuse to testify against each other. They figured that they won’t stay locked up since they could hire expensive lawyers.
Also in this episode, flashback of Finch’s pass is revealed. It mainly shows his relationship with Grace, an artist that Finch saw in a park while testing the machine. Nothing much is revealed about the machine but I think it is to emphasize how much Finch had to give up for the safety of Grace from those who wanted Finch and the Machine.
Mark Pellegrino guest stars as Daniel Drake and has mark another reunion for the Lost TV series cast which Michael Emerson (Harold Finch) was also part of and portrayed Ben in the said TV series.

Merlin Season 5 Episode 10: The Kindness of Strangers


Don’t read if you haven’t seen the episode
Morgana captured Alator of Catha to find out the true identity of Emyrs. Despite the torture inflected by Morgana, Alator refuse to talk. Finna, an associate of Alator, goes to Camelot to seek Merlin. Merlin was cautious and eventually promised Gauis not to meet her again. Merlin broke his promised to learn more about the great battle of Camlann.
Gauis decided to tell Arthur about Finna. Arthur then ordered a squad led by Mordred to capture Finna. Back to Morgana, a guard found a paper with the message that Finna sent to Alator. Realizing that Alator would not reveal Emyrs identity, she killed Alator and decided to capture Finna instead.
Finna is now being hunted by Arthur’s knights and Morgana’s men. Merlin was able to locate her first but was injured by one of Morgana’s men. They fled to an abandoned tower to escape their pursuers. In order to escape Finna decided to give up her life to save Merlin. But before doing so, he gave a small chest with details regarding the great battle. Morgana was able to corner Finna but before she was able to question her, Finna stab herself keeping her promises to protect Merlin and keeping Morgana from learning the truth.
Before the episode ended, Morgana use a curse use by the High Priestess when they are declaring war on their enemies. An unknown knight was killed by a Morgana’s spell that has caused his skin to covering his face leading to suffocation.
The preview of the next episode, The Drawing of the dark, shows us that Merlin has angered Mordred which might lead to his betrayal of Camelot. Mordred is imprisoned and later escapes. Kara, presumably Mordred’s love interest and a druid, would be captured. Her fate would lie in Arthur’s hand. This might be the episode that will push Mordred to Morgana’s side.
The plot of the episode is pretty simple. Morgana is desperate to find out Emyrs’ true identity but failed in the end. I have to say that there are a lot of unnecessary plots in this season. One plot in particular is the Gwen under Morgana’s spell plot. With only a few episodes left the series, I think a lot of fans would agree with me that there are too much stories which are left untold. Instead of the Gwen arc, they should have reveal Merlin’s magic instead. Arthur should have learned about the truth and the rebuilding of Arthur’s trust could have been a better plot. But instead I think the writers are looking at the idea of revealing Merlin’s secret on the last episode. That something, on my opinion, is a mistake that Smallville, a tv series about Clark Kent before he became Superman, has made. If that will be the case, I don’t think it will be enough to show the aftermath when the truth comes out. Merlin and Arthur’s friendship would definitely take a toll and would overwhelm with trust issues.
Kilgarrah is yet to face Aithusa. In the legend, the Auithusa prevails over Kilgarrah. In this episode, Kilgarrah has said that he growing old and that his end might be near. It would cool if one whole episode would be dedicated on their fight.
Despite everything, I will still watch the show until the end. I hope the ending would be disappointing though.

Is religion to blame for Pacquaio’s loss to Marquez?


In the wake of Manny Pacquiao’s devastating loss to Juan Manuel Marquez, comments have been flooding the net about religion as the reason for Pacquiao’s loss. How did people come up with that? In my opinion, they shouldn’t blame religion for his loss. Everyone is entitled to their beliefs. Whether he has changed his religion is not the reason for his loss. If you have noticed he was on top of his game. He going head to head with Marquez. He was more aggressive than he used to be. A perfectly timed punch by Marquez was the reason for his defeat. Even Pacquiao has admitted that it was his carelessness that has lead to losing the bout.
 Somebody commented (I just can’t remember who it was) that if two Catholics were in the ring, who would win the bout? In a yahoo article that I read, retired Lingayan Archbishop Oscar Cruz has said that even though he is now a born again Christian, he has given up his vices and has given up gambling. I think that counts for something. We should respect his beliefs.  
In all of his matches, he wears a rosary under his neck and removes it before the match. In this match and the last bout with Bradley, he was not wearing it. Some people say that it his lucky charm and the change of routine is a reason for his loss as well. For some Athletes, they have a routine or custom to wear something that they perceived as lucky during the game. Maybe lucky charms are true. I wouldn’t know because I don’t have any.
Let’s just be thankful that he is not seriously harmed and that will have the chance to get back to the ring.

Sunday, December 9, 2012

Person of interest Season 2 Episode 7: Critical


Don’t read if you haven’t seen the episode

Finch and Reese tracks down another number and was surprised that it belongs to same guy they save before Leon . Leon is now involved with an online game which also involves the Russian Mob. Reese asked nicely to let Leon go but had to engage the mobster since they wouldn’t agree to let Leon ’s mistake slide.

Since the Mob is still searching for Leon , they decided to have him stay in their hideout with Bear watching him closely. The machine gave them another number that belongs to Dr. Madeleine Enright. The doctor is the top Cardiologist and trauma surgeon in charge of the operation of CEO of an energy company Oliver Veldt. Later Alistair Wesley introduced himself to doctor and informed him that her wife Amy would be killed if she doesn’t play along with their plans. He intend for the doctor to ensure that Oliver Veldt doesn’t survive the surgery.


Fusco arrives in a crime scene of a man brutally executed. He found a card with Detective Carter’s contact details. Written at the back is 6611th. Later Carter deciphered the writing at the back and found out that it was an address of a company called Fujima in 66 11th Avenue . Carter checks it out and arrives in the address. A few moments later a disturbance inside the building occurred and she saw agent Snow, an old colleague of Reese. She followed him and he revealed that he was doing some task given by an old colleague of Snow and Reese. He also revealed that a bomb was strapped to his chest. Before getting more information from him a shooting began and she lost snow in the Darkness.
Back to the hospital, Finch enlisted the help of Leon to dig out information on who would want Oliver Veldt dead. Leon was able to hack the Veldt’s company and found a trail that leads to some short selling of Veldt stocks that would mean goods news and a large fortune for the investor if Veldt dies.

Reese found a shooter that intends to kill Amy if the doctor doesn’t go along with their plans. Later he met the leader Alistair and Reese realized immediately that he was former MI 6 and his men were former SAS. Alistair recognizes that Reese is former CIA. He told Reese to stay away from it but before Reese was able to capture Alistair, one of his attacked Reese. Alistair was able to escape during the commotion.

Back in the hospital, the doctor was trying to buy some time and ask all of his medical staff to leave. One of assisting nurse, Liz Picket decided to stay. Unable to concentrate, Madeleine decided to have a short break. When she returned to the operating room, Veldt was crashing and an Artery was cut. They soon realized that Liz is Alistair’s inside man. Finch hit her and she fell unconscious. Madeleine had to do an emergency procedure to save Veldt’s life. Eventually she did and she was reunited with her wife.
Alistair called Reese and told him that he met him in Instanbul at a market. Reese doesn’t remember since Alistair made sure he wasn’t seen. He then hailed a cab to drive him to the airport.
Like the other episode, there were no flashbacks in this episode as well. But it throws Reese’s old life back to the plot. Kara Stanton, Reese’s old partner who he tried to kill, is orchestrating something big according to Mark Snow. I can’t wait how this would collide. With the list of enemies building up for Reese and Finch, they would to be more careful and vigilant. I am pretty sure that Alistair would be back again. Root is still out there and so is the group who are hiding the machine. Soon they might have more trouble that they could actually handle.

Merlin Season 5 Episode 9: With All My Heart


Don’t read if you haven’t seen the episode

Arthur finally learns of Morgana’s control over Guinevere.  Determined to break Morgana’s spell called Teine Diaga he consults Gauis. The means to end a spell would be only known by the high Priestess and the Dochraid. The Dochraid is a believer of the old religion ways and is in league with Morgana. Leaving them with no choice, Merlin transforms to Dragoon the great and confronts the Dochraid. Merlin was able to get the information that he needs but had use the Excalibur to get it. The Excalibur is the only weapon powerful enough to harm creatures like the Dochraid.



 
They have to travel to the Cauldron of Arianrhod and have to summon a white goddess. But they would have to put Guinevere to sleep in the process. When they were secretly leaving the castle with Gwen, they encountered Mordred and Gwayne. Modred was suspicious and followed them.
 
Only a sorcerer could summon the white goddess. Arthur was not willing to work with Dragoon the great. Leaving them with no choice, Gauis told Arthur that it would a sorceress named Dolma that would help them. Dolma is Merlin Old Female form. Only the water of the Cauldron of Arianrhod would be able to heal her but she has to enter the waters on her own free will.
 
The Dochraid alerted Morgana immediately and she intended to stop them at all cost. She brought her Dragon A to interfere with Arthur’s plan but the Dragon for Merlin who used his powers as Dragon lord to make leave. Morgana was able to capture Mordred and she tried to convince him to join her. Modred again refuse and use his powers to magically push Morgana.



 
In the Lake , Gwen has awakened and would not come to the waters willingly. Arthur talked to him and used the words that used in their wedding vows “With all my heart” to stir Gwen’s emotions. Eventually she entered the water and Merlin used his magic to summon the white Goddess. On their return to Camelot, Mordred talked to Merlin about trusting him. He told Merlin that he will prove himself worthy of Merlin’s trust.
 
 
I have to say I am pretty disappointed with how the episode ended. I thought that Merlin had use a huge amount of magic to summon the White Goddess. But when Merlin released the Teine Diaga it was anti-climatic. I have expected more especially that there are only a few episodes left in the series. But I have to admit the Dolma scene was funny. They haven’t put much comedy in the series as they use to. But with time running out, I would have wanted to see Merlin use more Magic.
 

Pacquiao loses to Marquez



The 4th match between Juan Manuel Marquez and Manny Pacquiao has taken an unexpected turn. It has been the first time that I have seen Manny got knocked out like that. This is the first real lost for Pacquiao in 7 years. In my opinion the Bradley bout doesn't count since Manny was able to give him a beating and most observers would agree that Manny won the match.

The first round was won by Manny in my opinion. The second was Marquez's as he put Pacquiao in the canvass with clean right punch to his cheek. Pacquiao retaliated and was more agressive in the next few rounds. Pacquaio got the upper hand and was able to knocked Marquez after a minute in the 5th round. Marquez was able to shake it off but Pacquaio was relentless with succeeding attacks. At the start of the six, Marquez came out of his corner with a bleeding nose. Pacquaio was still aggresive but got knocked with another right punch which he never recovered from in the sixth round. It took Pacquaio a few minutes to get up. By then It was all over.

Speed was a factor in this match. Maybe Pacquiao has really aged and lost his advantage. One thing is sure. Marquez was more prepared in this match. Some might say that Manny was too reckless. But that seems to be the key if he wish to beat Marquez. When Manny is cautious, Marquez would just patiently wait to counter punch. But when Manny is fighting like a street fighter, it throws Marquez off his guard. It was a good battle plan and it seems like Pacquiao was on his way to beat Marquez. But we all know how good of a counter puncher Marquez is. In the end, Marquez came on top and has given Manny his worst lost in years.

Is it time to throw the towel? From some it is time to retire for Manny? I don't he would besides Pacquiao is still under contract with Bob Arum. Arum would sure that he fight a few more matches before he lets Pacquiao retire. Pacquiao is big time athlete. I don't think he want to remember him as the guy who won it all lost the last two fight, got knocked down and hit the canvass and retire. If you are Pacquiao would you retire? I don't think so.

He might come back stronger on his next fight and prove that he is still someone to fear. Maybe they are just setting up a Pacquaio - Mayweather match. Now that he was defeated by Marquez maybe Mr. Mayweather would have the courage to fight Manny now. But the is pretty big risk getting punch like that just to setup a match. I don't think they expected it to go down like that. I don't think Marquez even did.

Don't get me wrong. I still believe in the Pacman. I am sure he will come back to his winning form and wow us again with his performance. Well done to Marquez. He has proved that he has outmatched Pacquiao in this fight. He is the better fighter in this bout. Some might blame his new found faith. But I don't think people should judge him. He gave it all but made a wrong move. A critical mistake. I actually saw a different Manny Pacquiao in this match compared to his pass few bout. He is more aggressive. I saw the same Pacquiao who fought Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito.

So if these two will fight again, would you still be willing to watch? I definitely would.

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

The Walking Dead Season 3 Episode 8: Made to Suffer


Don’t read if you haven’t seen the episode

Last week if wrote a post about this week’s episode of the walking dead Made to suffer spoilers. Most of them came true. Somebody from Rick’s group got killed and that was Oscar. He got shot will trying to climb a bus to get over the wall. That’s a shame since he seems more trustworthy than Axel. Tyreese appeared in this episode. Tyreese along with Sasha and 3 other survivors were trying to escape a group of walkers when they reached the prison. So my question is who is Sasha? In the comics Tyreese had a daughter named Julie. So did change her name or is this someone different? Another spoiler that I read last week was Michonne killing the Governor’s daughter Penny. Now this is completely different from what I imagine. I thought that Michonne would be long gone when the Governor sees his daughter’s body. I knew somehow that Michonne e would have no remorse in taking care of Penny but I was surprised. The governor caught Michonne in his house with Penny. The governor pleaded for Michonne to keep Penny unharmed. And all of sudden Michonne stuck her Katana in the back of Penny’s head and it went straight thru her mouth. That was disturbing but what happened next was far disturbing. The governor threw Michonne to his aquarium collection of heads and shattered glass were scattered around the room. There were a lot of strangling punching and kicking and went Michonne was about to lose the fight, she grabbed a glass and stuck it to governor’s eye.





In my previous post about this episode, I wrote that some spoilers were saying that Glenn and Maggie’s rescue would fail. It was the opposite, Maggie and Glenn were saved and it should us how Glenn is tougher than we have expected. Using the arm of a Zombie that Merle let loose, Glenn rip it off and used the bones as a weapon. How would imagine that Glenn would go that far for their survival.
Let’s now talk about Andrea. She haven't left Woodbury but has learned about the Governor’s secret particularly the aquarium heads and Penny. She seem disturb by the Idea but it is not enough to make her leave just yet.
And here is another surprise. Daryl was caught and the Governor has accused Merle to be a traitor in front of all Woodbury. The people of Woodbury community want blood and we would have to wait till next February what would happen next. Would they pit the Dixon brothers in a death match? By the end of the episode Rick and his group is still in front of the door waiting for Daryl but instead they found Michonne.
Michoone is not making it easier for Rick and the other’s to trust her. And like some of the other reviews I also wish that they Michonne do more talking than taking out of Zombies. I am also excited with the new Characters especially Tyreese. Based on the comics he will be Rick’s right hand. I wonder if they would do the same in the show.



In the preview of the next episode “The suicide King”, Woodbury would be attacked again and the resident would start panicking again. Some might be packing their bags but I don’t think that the Governor would let that happen. It seems that Daryl would be able escape and they might possibly bring Merle along. There is a scene were Glenn shouted “What the hell is he doing here?”. I would assume that would be Merle. We have to wait till February 10, 2013 to watch the next episode. It has been a great third season so far. We just have to wait a little more for the remaining episodes of this season.

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