Watercooler review of "Lazarus Rising" from TV Guide online

[agt_spooky]

Hey folks! I'm back online! Well, we here in Chicago saw Lazarus Rising finally get over here at 12:30 am this morning. Ugh. But DAMN that was worth the wait! My show is back!!

As always, my favorite fangirl, Tina Charles, over at tvguide.com has her great review of last night's season premiere, so I'll let her do the talking for me...

Oh, and I'll be back later today with the ratings, which are going to blow when the finals come out, because Chicago won't be counted. Grrr....





Supernatural
by Bettina Charles

Episode Recap: "Lazarus Rising"

"Why’d you do it?" "Because God commanded it. Because we have work for you."

That’s how "Lazarus Rising" ended. And I just couldn’t believe it. The show went there. It went there! God ordered this "Angel of the Lord" to pull Dean out of hell, because there was work to be done. Wow. Now I can tell you about the "object" that the Warner Bros. publicists sent out with the first two episodes of Supernatural’s Season 4. It was a copy of the Bible. Seeing that gave me the first inclination as to where this season was going. And after I watched the episode for the first time, it all made sense. I do have to say that I’m so glad I hadn’t really paid attention to many of the spoilers out there, because I never saw the whole Castiel and his "job offer" coming.

And as for Sammy, well, he’s had a very busy four months, hasn’t he? He freakin’ exorcised a demon with his mind, no Latin or holy water necessary. That was also a really huge development in this Supernatural universe. I’ve been hoping the show would allow him to tap into his powers. They were dormant for so long, I thought maybe they were gone forever. There certainly haven’t been any visions in forever. The only time he really ever moved anything with his mind was to save his brother in Season 1’s "Nightmare." But after Dean sold his soul to bring Sam back, he never really seemed to come back 100 percent. Now that I’ve seen what he’s capable of, his powers just seemed to be brewing underneath for all of Season 3. Now he’s accepted them. Again, wow.

The Resurrection

We saw flashes of hell and then we saw darkness. All of a sudden we heard Dean breathe back into existence. He was conveniently (too conveniently) buried with a lighter. I guess Sammy was thinking ahead. And Dean quickly dug his way out of the pine box Sam and Bobby buried him in after he died. I was worried about how Buffy Dean’s resurrection and then his escape from his grave was going to get. Any fan of the vampire slayer show knows Buffy was pulled out of what we later learned was some heaven-like place. But her escape was pretty brutal as she clawed her way out of her grave. As for Dean, other than his raspy voice and some smudges on his face and arms, he really wasn’t that bad off; a fact which was scary in its own right, since we know the guy was in hell for four months probably being continuously tortured. At the gas station, Dean gathered supplies and wondered why he didn’t have any scars from those vicious hellhounds that tore him apart. However, he did have a mysterious hand print on his arm.

The Reunions

How great was Dean’s reunion with Bobby? I have always loved any scene we get that involves those two – they’re unexpectedly emotional. When Bobby finally realized he wasn’t talking to a Dean shapeshifter or revenant, that this was the real deal, it was just awesome. When Bobby doused Dean with the holy water was cool too. But as great as this reunion was, I was waiting for the one between Sam and Dean. After Sam got over his doubts about who turned up at his hotel room door in Pontiac, Illinois, the two brothers hugged. My top three Sam and Dean moments during "Lazarus Rising" were:

1) The hug. Duh.
2) Sam gave Dean his amulet back.
3) Sam and Dean ogled Pamela Barnes (the psychic) together. I liked this scene because Sam and Dean both appreciated Pamela’s "assets." Sam wasn’t just about the case; it was a lighthearted moment between the brothers.

The Brothers’ Relationship

Even though Sam and Dean shared some touching moments, all was not right in their world. They’ve always kept a secret or two from each other. After all Dean still hasn’t found out about Mary recognizing the demon that killed her. But what transpired in this episode has really set the brothers on two different paths. Sam told Dean that Ruby was dead. We know that she never died. She just switched bodies (more on that in a little bit). He was pretty vague about what he did during his four months without Dean. And he certainly lied about using his powers. Dean told Sam he couldn’t remember anything about hell. We know he’s been getting some flashes (not much, but it was still something). He also lied about going to summon the thing that pulled him out of hell. We’ve got lies, half-truths, omissions and differing agendas threatening to separate the Winchesters. Plus, Sam has been working with a demon (Ruby) and tapping into the dark side in order to do some good: save people and rid the world of demons. Dean, on the other hand, may end up working for an angel who has shown to be more than just a halo and fluffy wings. In this episode, he was fierce but also destructive. Just ask Pamela. In the past I’ve always been wary about anything that splits up the brothers. I haven’t changed my opinion on that subject, but I have to say I don’t mind the brothers keeping secrets from each other this season.

Other thoughts:

The classic rock recap was back: AC/DC’s "Shook Me All Night Long" started Season 4 off with a bang.

Loved Dean at the empty gas station. He quickly went for candy, water and a copy of his favorite porn mag. By the way, I loved the continuity with the Busty Asian Beauties magazine and Dean paying for the pie later in the diner. Those were both references that started in Season 2 (I think).

Wedge Antilles is a Star Wars reference.

Sam drove the Impala!

The new Ruby: the jury’s out for me. To me, she felt like a whole new character. Katie Cassidy’s Ruby was as sarcastic as Dean, could give as good as she got, and was pretty questionable morally even if she was doing something good. While I watched and liked Genevieve Cortese on ABC Family’s Wildfire, her Ruby seemed pretty tame. She also seemed too nice. Ruby offered to step back, although I do think it has something to do with who pulled Dean out of hell. But it was weird to hear her say she didn’t want to come between the brothers. So I’ve decided to reserve my judgment, because who knows what will happen in the future with this character.

Castiel: I liked this guy immediately. Misha Collins is definitely a keeper. And mighty sexy too. Sorry, I just had to go there. But I can’t wait to see how things develop between Castiel and Dean in the future. I loved that shot of Castiel's wings, by the way.

Pamela Barnes: Shades of Ellen, that girl is. I loved the job Traci Dinwiddle did. Her scenes with Bobby, Sam and Dean were great. Hope we get to see her again.

Dean couldn’t see Castiel in his pure form. I wonder if we’ll ever meet anyone who has the power to see him.

Sam’s turned into a much better liar. Remember Season 3’s "The Kids Are Alright?"

Dean finding the Impala equipped with an iPod dock and playing Sam’s emo music was classic. What was that song anyway? Loved when he threw the iPod in the back seat.

Final Thought on "Lazarus Rising"

It felt like we’ve been building up to everything that happened in this episode for years. A lot of the dialogue had its roots in seasons past. Castiel calling Dean out on not having any faith, not feeling deserving of being saved; our first inkling of that happened during Season 1 in "Faith." And since the beginning we’ve seen Sam evolve from this kid who just wanted to be normal to a guy who wanted to avenge his girlfriend’s death and then get out of the fight; to a man who has accepted his fate. He’s gone from abhorring his psychic ability and for better or worse has now accepted them to fight the good fight. I’m definitely interested in how long Sam and Dean will be able to exist together when there are so many obstacles that could tear them apart. Yes, it's good to have Supernatural back on the air.

~~~~~

WOW! Man, I haven't sat there so transfixed, not moving a muscle watching a Supernatural episode in a long, long time.

It was simply AMAZING.

Once again, Tina summed up my thoughts wonderfully so I won't repeat too many things here.

I really, really liked Pamela and was horrified that she's been blinded. I was hoping to see more of her this season, but now I'm not so sure that we will. :-(

Now let's talk about Ruby. All of you know that I hated Katie Cassidy and her portrayal of Ruby. But I was willing to give Genevieve a chance. Um...that chance is pretty much gone. [sigh] She's just so...blah. And I can't get past her LIPS! They're freaking HUGE and just distracted me the entire time she was on the screen.

But it's more than that. I'm DISGUSTED by the implication that Sam is sleeping with Ruby. He might not be, but they were trying pretty hard to make it seem that way. And if they are, it's RAPE on Ruby's part. Because she's possessing this Kristy chick, making her body do things that she normally wouldn't, and that includes sex. So I'm really, really hoping I'm wrong about this and it becomes clear that there is no physical relationship between Sam and Ruby.

Ok, moving on. I do have to say that I absolutely LOVED Castiel. He really blew me away and I hope that we'll see much more of him this season. And yeah, he's smokin' hot! LOL!

The biggest "awww" moment for me was when Sam gave Dean back the amulet. It made me want to cry!

Oh, here's a question for you guys - WHY did Sam bury Dean in the middle of a field in Illinois? That was never brought up! I can't believe that Dean didn't ask! I mean, he "died" in Indiana. Why bury him in a random place in Illinois? I was honestly expecting him to be buried next to Mary. Any of you have a thought on this?

I just...wow. The words really do fail me on how much I loved this. Eric is shaking up the mythology in a BIG way and I like that, but I'm afraid already of the rift it's creating between Sam and Dean. I don't want them on opposing sides! I want them working together! I guess only time, and 22 episodes will tell, eh? :-)

Ok guys, now's YOUR time to tell me what you thought of Lazarus Rising!

Comments

[goingvogue.livejournal.com]

As I said before, if Sam's sleeping with Ruby, I will fucking lose my shit.

Just...no. No no no no MOTHER FUCKING NO.

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

As I said before, if Sam's sleeping with Ruby, I will fucking lose my shit.

You and me, both, babe. I don't care for this Ruby 2.0 version at all, and if they are sleeping together - man what a betrayal to Dean, you know? He goes to Hell and now Sam's shacked up with a demon from Hell? Yeah, nice one there, Sammy! Here's hoping we're both wrong.

[germanjj.livejournal.com]

I'm DISGUSTED by the implication that Sam is sleeping with Ruby

You're so right! This whole thing didn't even come to my mind! Oh, my god! But that would be the ultimate proof, that Sammy's going darkside!

WHY did Sam bury Dean in the middle of a field in Illinois

I hope we're gonna get answers for all these things. And I hope the wirters thought about it these things as much as we do, because... they kinda made a simple mistake when they let Dean's eyes bleed in Bloddy Mary and had to think about a reason for that afterwards. (I got that right? right?)

Anyway, I LOVED the episode and it's so good that the show is back and I LOVE the way they're going with this. But I think it's gonna be Dean vs. Sam in the end and I don't know what I think about that.

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

You're so right! This whole thing didn't even come to my mind! Oh, my god! But that would be the ultimate proof, that Sammy's going darkside!

Exactly! And man what a betrayal to Dean, you know? He goes to Hell and now Sam's shacked up with a demon from Hell? Yeah, nice one there, Sammy! Here's hoping I'm wrong in my assumption!

they kinda made a simple mistake when they let Dean's eyes bleed in Bloddy Mary and had to think about a reason for that afterwards

Yep! Boy, we latched onto that one and put Kripke, etc on the spot, didn't we? Same with the amulet. It's not something Kripke even thought about until all of us started demanding to know what it meant!

But I think it's gonna be Dean vs. Sam in the end and I don't know what I think about that.

My god, that will be SO hard to watch, but I agree that that's what it's gonna come down to. What a season this one's gonna be, I can tell already!

[kimberleyqaf.livejournal.com]

Loved this episode! I was so hoping they'd go in this direction one day.

I, too, really hope Sam isn't actually sleeping with Ruby. For both the reasons you mentioned and because it would almost seem like a ... betrayal, if that makes sense. Dean gets dragged into Hell and then Sam falls into bed with one of Hell's minions? No, I don't like that at all. I'll be waiting right along with you for clarification that they aren't actually sleeping together.

I loved Castiel as well. I think he's the strongest 'guest character' we've seen on the show. YED was powerful, but this guy exudes something more. I'm looking forward to seeing more of him.

While Sam lying doesn't suprise me, I was still disappointed. The only saving grace in that scene with Ruby was Sam's strong conviction that he was 'saving people'. I think he feels he needs to redeem himself after not being able to save Dean. Of course, back in the day, he tried to exorcise the demon without killing the host. I know he sounded disappointed when the human was dead, but I'm thinking that's a far more likely outcome with the power he's using to exorcise them at this point. He seems more willing to sacrifice the host in order to save others. Because he feels guilty, perhaps? I'd like to see them delve into his mindset more on this.

I automatically assumed, when Castiel said they had 'work for Dean to do', that one of his 'jobs' would be to stop Sam. Sam's apparently more powerful than some saw coming. The 'powers that be' may well realize that Dean is the one person who might get through to him. Thus, they had to get him out of Hell to get the job done. While I'm not looking forward to the boys being pitted against one another, I'm hoping that, if it happens, it will be resolved in a way that's satisfactory to the fans and does justice to the show. As powerful as Sam is, would he be able to look upon Castiel's true form? That could prove interesting as the season progresses.

All in all, I loved it and I'm totally looking forward to the rest of the season. Thanks for giving me a place to air my feelings on this lol.

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

I, too, really hope Sam isn't actually sleeping with Ruby. For both the reasons you mentioned and because it would almost seem like a ... betrayal, if that makes sense

It completely makes sense and I totally agree with you. Here's hoping we're both wrong in our assumption, because I will seriously be disappointed if Kripke's going down that path.

I loved Castiel as well. I think he's the strongest 'guest character' we've seen on the show. YED was powerful, but this guy exudes something more

Definitely! The YED excelled in being menacing, but Castiel just has this...presence, that puts him over the top of the YED. He's so much more mysterious and I love it.

While Sam lying doesn't suprise me, I was still disappointed.

Yeah, I know what you mean. The secrets have already started. :-(

The only saving grace in that scene with Ruby was Sam's strong conviction that he was 'saving people'

I'm still afraid for Sammy, using these powers. It's like Anakin Skywalker. Starting off as a good Jedi using those powers, but then became corrupted by them. I just know the same is going to be true for Sam, and only Dean will be able to save him before he goes completely darkside.

The 'powers that be' may well realize that Dean is the one person who might get through to him. Thus, they had to get him out of Hell to get the job done

Yes!! I totally agree. But it also kinda makes me sad that Dean wasn't saved just because he was Dean Winchester and didn't deserve to die and go to Hell, you know?

While I'm not looking forward to the boys being pitted against one another, I'm hoping that, if it happens, it will be resolved in a way that's satisfactory to the fans and does justice to the show.

Gosh, me, too. They're setting up an epic battle of brother vs. brother and I hope they've really thought it through to the end.

As powerful as Sam is, would he be able to look upon Castiel's true form?

That's what I want to know, too!

All in all, I loved it and I'm totally looking forward to the rest of the season. Thanks for giving me a place to air my feelings on this lol.

I loved it, too and I can't wait to see where they go from here. And you're very welcome. I loved hearing your thoughts. :-)

[mayphoenix.livejournal.com]

1. Wedge Antilles = I squeed, "Barb is gonna SHIT!" (Didja, huh, didja?)

2. Kripke won me over completely by going in this direction. I have been squirming and fussing (as you may recall) over demons and their traditional/Judeo-Christian roles, the (mis-)use of Lilith, the inclusion of Trickster (Coyote -- one of totems and my favorite of Native American spirit-gods), et al...because, y'know, I AM ALLLL ABOUT THIS SHIT! I was skeptical for the longest time because I wanted him to stop skirting the issue and get on with it already. And boy...did he ever.

3. Dean waking up in the grave (one of my BIGGEST fears) and his resurrection. The gas station (yeah -- closed, in the middle of a Thursday? and just happens to be stocked with EVERYTHING HE NEEDS, right down to the fricking PORNO?! can we say "setup?!"). The handprint. I was all, "FUUUUCK!"

4. Calling Bobby. Bobby hanging up.

5. GOING to Bobby. Holy water in the face, FTW!

6. Bobby...Bobby, Bobby. Slipped into a bottle. The raw, paternal emotion in his eyes and voice. I think the hug he gave Dean was better than the one Dean and Sam shared.

7. Sam. Oh, god. What has HAPPENED to you? Buffed up (JP's neck looked thicker), cynical (he became DEAN!). Working with RUBY! LYING to Dean, making it look like he and the "random girl" were getting it on... Frankly, I don't believe he's had sex AT ALL since laying Dean to rest (oh, and btw, did you like that he dressed Dean all in black before burying him? ohh, there's fic in there, as he prepared the body...mmmM!). Wearing Dean's necklace (which I notice RIGHT AWAY -- it wasn't on Dean, so the first thing I look for is that cord on Sam...and there it is!). Oh, but Sammy -- what the FUCK have you BECOME?

8. Castiel. YES! Damn! FINALLY! Love love LOVE the wing effect. Love the acknowlegment that you can't look at an angel in its true form (the burned-out eye thing ROCKS!). Love how his pressence affects electro-magnetic frequencies (in their truest form, angels are pure energy; they can't be destroyed because they were the first "beings" spawned and granted power just below that of the Creator Force). They picked a GREAT actor, too...I could totally buy into him being one of these creatures, just by his eyes and the way he spoke with such calm conviction... YEAH. :)

9. Sam's POWERS! Holy FUCK! And he's been killing demons A LOT over the summer. He's got a taste for it, now. He's being trained by Ruby, prepared for something greater. Coming into his own. I see a parallel to Hellboy, here...

10. Dean chosen by the angels. Yes, this is exactly what I predicted last season, and mentioned to you and Chris at Media -- that it was gonna come down to these forces pitting brother against brother. It's the classic Cain/Abel thing. They're being USED.

And god, there is SOOOO much more, so many little details, I can't begin to list! Suffice to say, I am HOOKED on this season! :D

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

1. Wedge Antilles = I squeed, "Barb is gonna SHIT!" (Didja, huh, didja?)

LOL! I so did!! I love Kripke the Star Wars geek. :-)

2. Kripke won me over completely by going in this direction

Me, too! I've been wanting the whole angel aspect since Houses of the Holy and now it looks like we're finally getting it. Yay!

3. Dean waking up in the grave (one of my BIGGEST fears)

I loved that Sammy thought ahead and buried Dean with a lighter. :-)

The handprint. I was all, "FUUUUCK!"

Me, too! I was like WHOA!!

5. GOING to Bobby. Holy water in the face, FTW!

I laughed so hard when he turned and spit it out! LOL!

6. Bobby...Bobby, Bobby. Slipped into a bottle. The raw, paternal emotion in his eyes and voice. I think the hug he gave Dean was better than the one Dean and Sam shared

I loved everything about that whole scene at Bobby's house, for everything you just mentioned. Bobby is so fantastic that it worries me that Sera will kill him off at some point, just for spite.

7. Sam. Oh, god. What has HAPPENED to you?

I know!! It was just one jaw-dropping thing after another and as the season progresses and we get to see exactly what he was doing in those four months...wow. And yes, I want a flashback showing Sam burying Dean and WHY he chose that random field.

8. Castiel. YES! Damn! FINALLY! Love love LOVE the wing effect.

Castiel ROCKS! Sometimes the writers really hit the nail on the head with characters and they did so in a big way with Castiel.

Coming into his own. I see a parallel to Hellboy, here...

And I see a parallel with Anakin Skywalker, too. Starting off as a good Jedi using those powers, but then became corrupted by them. I just know the same is going to be true for Sam, and only Dean will be able to save him before he goes completely darkside.

10. Dean chosen by the angels.

I can't stop squeeing about this. FINALLY Dean is part of the mythology!! I hate that it's going to come down to brother vs. brother, though. It's going to be heartbreaking and I hope the writers do it justice.

Suffice to say, I am HOOKED on this season! :D

You and me both, babe! :-)

Re: not spoiled, just speculating from the show itself last night

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

its not ruby, its LILITH.

Oh, wow, EXCELLENT thought! That hadn't even occurred to me! So if it is Lilith, and we know she wants Sam dead, why do you think she'd be encouraging Sam to tap into his powers? Wouldn't that make him harder to kill? Or is she looking for a weakness, do you think?

4) castiel...woah babeeee....wants!!!! (even if i gotta question HIS agenda too...and his claimed identity...)

Yeah, while I think he's a kick ass character already, how do we know he's telling the truth? Can't wait to find out!

[jellicle.livejournal.com]

Ok, moving on. I do have to say that I absolutely LOVED Castiel. He really blew me away and I hope that we'll see much more of him this season. And yeah, he's smokin' hot! LOL!
I wonder if we'll get Dean/Castiel fics... And he reminded me of Chris Kane back in Angel's first season, but way hotter.

The biggest "awww" moment for me was when Sam gave Dean back the amulet. It made me want to cry!
I was waiting for this and would get pretty pissed if it had happened off screen.

WHY did Sam bury Dean in the middle of a field in Illinois? That was never brought up! I can't believe that Dean didn't ask! I mean, he "died" in Indiana. Why bury him in a random place in Illinois? I was honestly expecting him to be buried next to Mary. Any of you have a thought on this?

This has been bothering me since Comic Con. I was expecting/hoping that he'd bury Dean at least near or in Bobby's land. But I loved that they explained why Dean was buried instead of salt and burnt.

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

I wonder if we'll get Dean/Castiel fics

I've already seen a bunch! LOL!

I was waiting for this and would get pretty pissed if it had happened off screen

Oh, definitely. If Dean just suddenly had the amulet on with no on-screen explanation I would've been hopping mad, too!

I was expecting/hoping that he'd bury Dean at least near or in Bobby's land. But I loved that they explained why Dean was buried instead of salt and burnt.

At least I'm not the only one wondering why that field in Illinois. I guess maybe Sam did it there instead of Bobby's land or even near Mary's grave because he was afraid it would be too easy to find if something evil wanted to destroy the body before Sam could bring him back. It's the only thing I can think of.

[gina-stormgrant.livejournal.com]

Ruby wandering around Sam's apartment in her underwear mirrored Jess doing the same in the pilot. I didn't get the impression they were sleeping together, but maybe she was staying there.

Are we believing the angel is actually an angel? What if he's lying? He's already made a mistake about Dean being not one of those who can deal with his true voice.

I think the implication is that Sam will be able to. But they have a tendency to point us in one direction and then surprise us. Maybe Sam's a demon after all and Dean's the angel. Maybe the brothers will have to face off against each other at some point. Maybe Kripke read "Good Omens" over the summer. ;-)

Thanks for the reviews.

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

Ruby wandering around Sam's apartment in her underwear mirrored Jess doing the same in the pilot. I didn't get the impression they were sleeping together, but maybe she was staying there.

Yeah, it did remind me of Jess and he was sleeping with her, so that's why I immediately thought he and Ruby were, too.

Are we believing the angel is actually an angel? What if he's lying? He's already made a mistake about Dean being not one of those who can deal with his true voice.

I have no idea who Castiel really is, but he's a kick ass character and I do want him to be an angel, very badly.

Maybe the brothers will have to face off against each other at some point.

I have no doubt that this will happen and it'll be heartbreaking. :-(

[riveryklown.livejournal.com]

Um they pretty much discarded any possibility that he's sleeping with her when he said he's not sure he trusts her.
Dean did ask about why he was buried in the first place, and the answer to that covered anything else. Sam expected him to come back. It would be uncomfortable to do that in an actual graveyard. (Also, Dean Winchester is kinda dead since Jus in Bello, his grave popping up might wake some questions about his brother, who also supposedly died)
I like the new Ruby. And I love Castiel, I did some random research on angels recently, and I found him and I was like... oh, I'm on to you Kripke. Awesome! :)

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

Um they pretty much discarded any possibility that he's sleeping with her when he said he's not sure he trusts her.

True, he did say that, and it gives me hope that they're not sleeping together, but Sam's got needs like any other man, and if Ruby's parading around the place that they're living in half naked, I can still see it happening.

Dean did ask about why he was buried in the first place, and the answer to that covered anything else

Well, not really. It explained why he wasn't salt and burned, but not why Sam chose a field in Pontiac. There's got to be some kind of meaning to it. I agree it would've been a bad choice to bury him in an actual graveyard, though, like you said. Someone might freak if they saw someone clawing their way out. :-)

I like the new Ruby. And I love Castiel

Sorry, but I'm passing on Ruby 2.0. The gal who played the demon!waitress would've been a much better choice! But Castiel? Oh yeah, I'm lovin' him. :-)

[riveryklown.livejournal.com]

Oh, I loved the demon waitress! I don't even know why, she wasn't particularly hot or anything but there was something so awesome about her :)

Well, Dean had a lot of ground to cover, who knows what other important questions he forgot to ask. Personally I was surprised they answered the question of why he wasn't burned cause I could totally see them (writers) forgetting it.

I don't think Sam was attracted by her, he's shown a lot of restraint so far regarding sex so I don't think he'd go there, unless he's actually gone dark side, in which case that will be the least of our problems.

I don't want them going against each other :( *cries*

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

I don't even know why, she wasn't particularly hot or anything but there was something so awesome about her :)

I totally agree! It was just the way she carried herself and delivered her lines. And how she nearly kicked Sam's ass. :-)

Personally I was surprised they answered the question of why he wasn't burned cause I could totally see them (writers) forgetting it

Yes, I'm really glad they brought that up. While I had already pretty much figured it out myself, it was nice to hear that Sam wouldn't think of burning Dean's body.

so I don't think he'd go there, unless he's actually gone dark side, in which case that will be the least of our problems

Oh god, you've got a good point there!

I don't want them going against each other

God, I don't either, but I just know that's where this season is heading. [sob]

[cattraine.livejournal.com]

I really think it sucks that Sam is already lying to Dean about Ruby.His brother gets out of Hell to find him screwing around with a demon. Sam for all his intelligence can be SO DAMNED STUPID.

And no--I still hate Ruby, brunette meatsuit or not.

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

I really think it sucks that Sam is already lying to Dean about Ruby.

I know! I hate it but it wasn't unexpected. I knew deep down that Sam would tap into his powers to try and bring Dean back from Hell, no matter what he promised Dean. And man, when Dean finds out it's not going to be pretty. :-(

And no--I still hate Ruby, brunette meatsuit or not.

Yeah, I'm passing on Ruby 2.0. The gal who played the demon!waitress would've been a much better choice!

[nanashi-sama.livejournal.com]

WHY did Sam bury Dean in the middle of a field in Illinois?... I mean, he "died" in Indiana. Why bury him in a random place in Illinois?

Well, Bobby did say that he wanted to do a proper hunter's salt and burn for Dean's body, but Sam wanted the body left alone for when he saved Dean. Most likely, Sam left Bobby wherever (the house at the end of last season or Bobby's place, who knows?) and took the body somewhere nobody else would find/come looking for it.

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

Well, Bobby did say that he wanted to do a proper hunter's salt and burn for Dean's body, but Sam wanted the body left alone for when he saved Dean

True, he did say that. It explained why he wasn't salt and burned, but not why Sam chose a field in Pontiac. There's got to be some kind of meaning to it. Or perhaps it's like you said - no meaning other than if some evil creature wanted to destroy the body for some reason that field was so random that no one would ever find it before Sam could bring Dean back.

[fergus80.livejournal.com]

The song on the ipod is one of Jensen's really good Friends. Jason Manns... Visions. It's a beautiful song. I squeeled so loud when it came on and then laughed so hard when Dean was disguested and threw it in the back seat. LOL

I guess Kripke made it up to Jason since he was supposed to have his song in Long Distanace Call, but it was cut.

This was a much better place for it!

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

The song on the ipod is one of Jensen's really good Friends. Jason Manns

I know! I totally squeed when I heard it, too and I love it that Eric finally gave us some insight as to what kind of music Sammy likes. :-)

I guess Kripke made it up to Jason since he was supposed to have his song in Long Distanace Call, but it was cut.

Oh no way! I didn't know that!

[black-regalia.livejournal.com]

The new Ruby: the jury’s out for me. To me, she felt like a whole new character. Katie Cassidy’s Ruby was as sarcastic as Dean, could give as good as she got, and was pretty questionable morally even if she was doing something good. While I watched and liked Genevieve Cortese on ABC Family’s Wildfire, her Ruby seemed pretty tame. She also seemed too nice.

She worked a LOT better that Cassidy for me. For starters, she was able to actually emote: I caught fear, hope, and concern from her -- all in just two scenes! As opposed to Cassidy's Ruby, who was just angry and snarky every time she was on screen.

I also liked that the character didn't feel the need to emasculate Sam every time she was around, just to prove she's "strong". This time it felt like they were buddy-cops, working together and having each other's backs, which was really neat, and a lot more invovling than the "show up and call Sam stupid" dynamic of last season.

My one thing is, as you said, the sleeping together thing. If it turns out they've been having sex, that's rape, and...really really bothersome to me. Right now I'm interperating it that they've just been living together, like Dean and Sam did, and wander around motel rooms in their night clothes and what not, and Ruby just played as Sam's one-night-stand as cover.

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

For starters, she was able to actually emote: I caught fear, hope, and concern from her -- all in just two scenes!

Wow, really? Man, I just wasn't getting anything from her. :-(

I also liked that the character didn't feel the need to emasculate Sam every time she was around, just to prove she's "strong".

This I definitely agree with. I was SO sick of Cassidy's Ruby doing that in every damn scene she was in last season.

. Right now I'm interperating it that they've just been living together

Which bothers me, too, but not nearly as much as the possibility of them sleeping together. I mean, last season Ruby just appeared whenever she wanted, wherever she wanted. Do she and Sam really need to be living together? Unless something really is going on between them? [shudder]

[dairwendan.livejournal.com]

My whole ep review is here. Please read it if you get a chance. BUT it was written before I realized that Kristy and Ruby were the same girl! I didn't get that last night, even though I watched the ep TWICE! Too focused on Sammy in her scenes I guess.

I hope to hell that they ARE NOT sleeping together, for the reasons everyone else has mentioned, and also because SHE'S A DEMON! Even disregarding that the girl she's in is a non-consenting party, even if it turns out she is in some form of her own and not possessing someone, why the hell would Sam be so STUPID as to sleep with a DEMON?

I hope we were only meant to THINK that they were sleeping together, especially since he said later that he wasn't sure he trusted her. He wouldn't sleep with someone he doesn't totally trust, right?

I will reserve judgement until we find out what's really going on, because everything else ROCKED!

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

My whole ep review is here. Please read it if you get a chance

Oh yay, I will!

Even disregarding that the girl she's in is a non-consenting party, even if it turns out she is in some form of her own and not possessing someone, why the hell would Sam be so STUPID as to sleep with a DEMON?

I know! I mean, what a betrayal to Dean, you know? He goes to Hell and now Sam's sleeping with a demon from Hell??

He wouldn't sleep with someone he doesn't totally trust, right?

True, he did say that, and it gives me hope that they're not sleeping together, but Sam's got needs like any other man, and if Ruby's parading around the place that they're living in half naked, I can still see it happening.

I will reserve judgement until we find out what's really going on, because everything else ROCKED!

Yeah, I will, too, and I hope we get a definitive answer and soon because like you said, what an awesome episode!

[tracys-dream.livejournal.com]

Right now this is the best episode that I have ever seen!

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

It was freaking awesome! What a refreshing change from the last horrible season. They're finally back on track and I love it. :-)

[tracys-dream.livejournal.com]

Me too!

[sonicbookmark.livejournal.com]

But it's more than that. I'm DISGUSTED by the implication that Sam is sleeping with Ruby. He might not be, but they were trying pretty hard to make it seem that way. And if they are, it's RAPE on Ruby's part. Because she's possessing this Kristy chick, making her body do things that she normally wouldn't, and that includes sex.

YES, THANK YOU FOR SAYING THIS. NO ONE ELSE SEEMS TO BE GETTING IT.

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

YES, THANK YOU FOR SAYING THIS. NO ONE ELSE SEEMS TO BE GETTING IT.

And why not is what I want to know! It's the first thing that popped into my head! I hope to god we get a definitive answer as to what their "relationship" is, and soon. And it better not be what we're fearing it is!

My thoughts on "LR"(MUCHO SPOILERS AHEAD!)...

[feldspar2.livejournal.com]

Hey, Tina--I'm SO glad you're back!

Not surprised at all on the numbers for LR--it's been a looong dry spell, and our boys are back. I think I'm going to be a bit more critical this season, because for me Season 3 took the show off the rails in a lot of ways. So I settled in with fingers crossed. Liked A LOT of what I saw, have a few questions about the rest--so, Kripke, please--don't keep us in the dark for long. Drop a few hints along the way this time, ok?

Ok. Loved Dean clawing his way out of his grave, and the ominous new title card with flapping black(angels?)wings--but Dean did look a little too 'fantastic' after being in Hell and underground--he could have been a little more grubby, at least(but oh, the tat and the handprint). But he was still the Dean we love and missed--stocking up on staples like beer, chocolate and porn, then hotwiring a car. Yep, Dean Winchester don't need no stinkin' help. His reunion with Bobby was just classic SPN--scary, funny, and then break-your-heart loveliness. Jim was PERFECTION.

And when Sam and Dean were together again...ohGod, BOYS. BOOOYYYYYS. Bliss, joy, tears. Jared in a tee--just a tee. (More, please. Love the muscles.Juscles?) The 'you're together?' line. And the bra (it didn't have to be Ruby's). And Sam wearing Dean's amulet, and returning it--so much like Mulder wearing Scully's cross. (This might have been a continuity glitch, because Dean was wearing the amulet in the last Hell shot in "NRFTW", but that could have been a representation of Dean's soul--and the amulet, a symbol of Sam's love, is a part of his soul.)And Dean hatin' on the iPod--that I can relate to. I really liked Pamela; she's the kind of female character I'd like to see more on SPN--smart as well as sexy, and she didn't look like she's underage and/or spends all her time at the mall.

Do I think that Sam slept with Ruby? Right now, a hard "Maybe." It has been four months. Bobby was hitting the sauce. Anything could have been going on. Sam does have demon blood in his veins, and he had buried Dean, and pursued every means to bring him back, with no luck. Sam told Ruby he didn't trust her, but he knows her on a very deep level; she can't fool him. And what about Ruby--maybe the need for some kind of comfort is mutual. Well, we'll see. Wow, what a double shock to see Sam punching the possessed waitress, then sending the soul back to Hell!

Castiel is a very interesting character. And ok, kinda hot, too. I wonder if his host was dying--that looks like a splotch of blood on his raincoat collar--could the man have been dying when Castiel possessed him? I loved the way he tilted his head in a wierdly birdlike way when he spoke to Dean. Dean told Layla in "Faith" that he would pray for her, but I think he can't believe in a God that did not step in and save his family. He's listened to too many demons, and Castiel could be lying. (But oh, let the D/C fic begin!)

What I most loved about the ep is that both Dean and Sam are hiding a lot from each other; it isn't as one-sided as "IMTOD." What I most have a problem with is that Genevieve Cortese is too soft; there's no real spark to her, and if Kripke's making her hold back for a reason(God, I hope not), he'd better reveal it pretty damn soon.

But all in all, a great first episode to Season 4. Our Js are back, lots of good questions, followed (YES!) by good answers. SPN is back, and life is good!

Re: My thoughts on "LR"(MUCHO SPOILERS AHEAD!)...

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

Hey, Tina--I'm SO glad you're back!

I am, too! Friday mornings wouldn't be the same without her awesome recaps. :-)

Not surprised at all on the numbers for LR--it's been a looong dry spell, and our boys are back.

Yay!! I can't tell you how pleased I was with the ratings. With how bad season three was, I was afraid we'd scared away viewers, you know?

I think I'm going to be a bit more critical this season

I think this is funny, because for me, it'll probably be the opposite. I couldn't possibly be more critical of this season than I was the last, so I think I'll just be settling in for the ride this season, with fingers crossed. :-)

so, Kripke, please--don't keep us in the dark for long. Drop a few hints along the way this time, ok?

I want that as well, and with the latest video interview, Jared says he's pleased that this season they're not answering questions with more questions, but giving answers, which will be great, IMO.

and the ominous new title card with flapping black(angels?)wings

Loved the flapping wings, but I still like last season's opening title the best.

But he was still the Dean we love and missed--stocking up on staples like beer, chocolate and porn, then hotwiring a car.

I'm glad they showed us that right off the bat, that Dean is still Dean. Well, for now anyway, until he really starts remembering what happened to him down below.

His reunion with Bobby was just classic SPN--scary, funny, and then break-your-heart loveliness. Jim was PERFECTION.

I loved EVERY SECOND of his reunion with Bobby. :-)

And when Sam and Dean were together again...ohGod, BOYS. BOOOYYYYYS. Bliss, joy, tears.

YES!! I waited all summer for that!!

And Sam wearing Dean's amulet, and returning it--so much like Mulder wearing Scully's cross. (This might have been a continuity glitch, because Dean was wearing the amulet in the last Hell shot in "NRFTW", but that could have been a representation of Dean's soul--and the amulet, a symbol of Sam's love, is a part of his soul.)

Yeah, I figured that it wasn't Dean's physical body down in Hell, wearing the amulet, just his soul, like you said, and that amulet is truly part of his being, so I could totally buy seeing it on him. And the fact that Sam has been wearing it made me want to cry!

I really liked Pamela; she's the kind of female character I'd like to see more on SPN--smart as well as sexy, and she didn't look like she's underage and/or spends all her time at the mall.

Yes! She wasn't a blonde barbie doll and I loved it. So of course they had to go and maim her and we'll probably never see her again. [sigh]

Do I think that Sam slept with Ruby? Right now, a hard "Maybe." It has been four months. Bobby was hitting the sauce. Anything could have been going on.

I know, and that's what I'm afraid of. He did say he didn't trust her, and it gives me hope that they're not sleeping together, but Sam's got needs like any other man, and if Ruby's parading around the place that they're living in half naked, I can still see it happening.

Wow, what a double shock to see Sam punching the possessed waitress, then sending the soul back to Hell!

That was freaky, but awesome at the same time!

Castiel is a very interesting character. And ok, kinda hot, too. I wonder if his host was dying

Oh, that's an interesting thought. He did say the host prayed for this, so perhaps you're right.

Dean told Layla in "Faith" that he would pray for her, but I think he can't believe in a God that did not step in and save his family. He's listened to too many demons, and Castiel could be lying. (But oh, let the D/C fic begin!)

Oh, yeah, totally. I can't imagine what Castiel is going to say to Dean to get him to believe that God wanted him pulled from hell. That's going to be an uphill battle! And you're right, Castiel might not be what he says he is. Hmmm....

More in part two...

Re: My thoughts on "LR"(MUCHO SPOILERS AHEAD!)...

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

My comment was too long! LOL!

Anyway...

What I most have a problem with is that Genevieve Cortese is too soft; there's no real spark to her, and if Kripke's making her hold back for a reason(God, I hope not), he'd better reveal it pretty damn soon.

Yeah, I'm not digging Ruby 2.0 at all. She's such a 180 from Ruby 1.0 that I don't understand the shift in personality.

But all in all, a great first episode to Season 4. Our Js are back, lots of good questions, followed (YES!) by good answers. SPN is back, and life is good!

It was a FANTASTIC way to welcome our show back for season four and I'm SO happy to be watching again! Squee!

[frostian.livejournal.com]

So I'm really, really hoping I'm wrong about this and it becomes clear that there is no physical relationship between Sam and Ruby.

I don't believe they are either. They're together b/c it's easier for both of them to do their jobs if they stay together, or Ruby was training with Sam and things went kablooey so they both needed to take showers.

[agt-spooky.livejournal.com]

I don't believe they are either.

Here's hoping we're both right, because otherwise I'm going to have a serious problem with this season.

P.S. - LOVE the icon! LOL!