By Frederic Germay
I really don’t know what to think about NBC’s decision to label “Heroes” fall finale as the season finale as a result of the writer’s strike. I suppose it would have its benefits…I mean, let’s face it – this has not been a good season. In most occasions, a sophomore slump would have a few glittering gems here and there, but in this season of “Heroes,” the gems are truly hard to find. I’ve complained about the lack of a strong central plot for some time now, but instead we are treated to several undefined mini-plots that don’t really serve as catalysts for suspense.
Not only has the storyline suffered, but the acting performances have fallen dramatically. Hiro’s Masi Oka used to light the screen every time his character overcame an obstacle, yet now he seems downtrodden and forlorn, which has virtually eliminated his former glow. It seems as though the only characters still holding their show together are Nathan Petrelli, Noah Bennet, and surprisingly…Bob! Bob’s sleazy demeanor instantly lends credence to the belief that he is evil to his core, but there are times when it appears as though glimmers of humanity seep through the cracks.
The quality of the show seems to rise and fall in rapid unpredictable bursts, and just when you think that the show is regaining its former footing, you start to wonder why the story is focusing on irrelevant characters. I think that the show should now focus on the plot of the mysterious eight paintings for what’s left of the season. If done correctly, the season might experience a slight redemption, and a shortened season might not seem like such a bad idea after all. However, the shortened season was an idea of the network executives, and with me being a writer and all, I’m obligated to side with my fellow scribes…so shortened season equals terrible idea!
Despite many complaints about the season so far, this episode was actually done quite well. The format makes me think that the slate has been wiped clean for this season, and for a moment it feels as though we are experiencing a quality follow-up from last season, the peak of “Heroes’” excellence. Adam’s character is particularly interesting, and one starts to wonder if it really is Takezo Kensei after a few centuries. If so, that is a brilliant way to make Hiro’s meanderings in the past quite relevant to the current plot. In addition, Elle’s character is given reasoning for perplexing permanent gleeful status – apparently she’s been emotionally stunted at a young age. I knew that Kristin Bell had more to deliver than her last appearance…
Unfortunately, Maya and Alejandro once again take unwelcome prominence in this episode. Try as hard as I might, their story is just not interesting enough to take up as much screen time as it does. I will admit that the scene towards the beginning when Maya wipes out everyone at the wedding was oddly chilling. Jessica/Nikki received quite a bit of face time in this episode as well, and as much as it filled in the gaps, it didn’t really captivate me. It was mostly the Peter/Adam/Elle dynamic that carried the episode, and that’s why I’m giving this episode an 8/10
