Review
by JoyElectric
Rating:
I've been putting
off writing a review for this, simply because I didn't know where to go with
it. The first episode back, and there are highs and lows.
I'll get the whining out of the
way first: the show seemed to go a little too fast for me. Last time we heard
Connie, she was putting off going home, and now she's okay. God dealt with
her, yet we never get much in the way of specifics. In addition, the show
felt like it needed a "B" story, since everything revolved around
Connie and Jared trying to help Connie. Jared's "intervention" scene
felt too long and silly, even if some of his earlier attempts to make her
crack were much more funny.
Enough of that: it was great hearing
Whit and Connie back again in the same room. While I'm still wondering where
Nick and Aubrey are (or Wooton for that matter), it was good hearing Connie
back to serving ice cream to kids. June was exceptionally great, from picking
Connie up to bawling at the movie at the end. It's great to hear her again.
Otherwise, it was a good show,
and love how it ended (it sound like Whit's unpredictable attitude from years
past has resurfaced again!). I'm glad Whit doesn't get into the Chick Flicks
as much. Still...the show just seemed to dwell on Jared trying to figure Connie
out without the scenes going anywhere...
Review
by Priceless, age 11
Rating:
Great show! Well
written and has a great plot. I don't agree with some things in the show,
but anyway, a very good show with romantic comedy!
Review
by Ming, age 13
Rating:
Trent and Jared
were the best!
Review
by Robert, age 11
Rating:
It was all right,
but who really thinks Connie wants to cry? She practically already flooded
all of the Eastern side of the United States. Not that it's wrong; it just
seems kind of heartless. But hey, that didn't ruin the ep, mostly it was just
that... uh... Eugene's not back yet. Yeah. That's it.
Review
by Jesse
Rating:
Awesome show!
Trent and Jared were great. The paper mache scene was great!
Review
by Natalie, age 13
Rating:
This episode was
pretty good. It wasn't amazingly great or anything but did have a lot of funny
parts. I enjoyed hearing the "old" Jared again and I loved the movie
Connie was watching!
Review
by Gandalf (Town Hall)
Rating:
(out of five)
I really liked
this episode. It was a nice ending to the Connie's roadtrip story arc (which
lasted 9 episodes). Also, I hope this is the last we have to hear about Mitch.
I don't mind him being mentioned anymore, but I really hope Connie is pretty
much over him. On the other hand, some interesting stories could come out
of his absence.
Unlike most people, I liked both
Jared and Trent. Both were really well done, I thought. Jared does sound a
bit older than possibly he should, but I really like Trent's character. It's
great to hear June Kendall back for the third time in the last year or so.
This means that a character that took an 12 album hiatus will be in three
albums (40-42) in a row! I think that's great. I like her a lot in this episode
(more than "Here Today, Gone Tomorrow?") and I think it's great
that the writers realize what a divorced mother must feel like when her only
child's daughter has been hurt similar to the way she was.
Now the biggest compliment in the
episode: Whit. He was great in this episode! Not only did it feel like he
honestly cared about Connie, he showed some emotion that we haven't heard
since Clara. But he also had some comic relief lines, especially during the
'group therapy' scene and the last scene. A barrel of laughs. In addition,
it's great to hear him talk about Jana and his relationship with her. We haven't
heard about that since "The Mortal Coil," and I think it's good
when the series remembers it has a past.
Overall, the show was an excellent
addition, a nice follow up to album 41. The title was a bit puzzling, but
when you have almost 600 episodes, then the titles don't come as easily as
they used to.
Review
by Carolita (Town Hall)
I really thought
Whit did an excellent job in this episode. I must say, the soap operas were
so stupid they were hilarious. I loved Whit's comment at the end.
Now for the rest...hm....well,
Trent and Jared were pretty good, but I think it's about time Jared grew up
a tad "mentally." After all, he's not 12 anymore. I think he went
entirely too far on the psychology thing... Trent's acting was pretty good.
Poor guy, he was so nervous.
Ms. June was...lol...interesting.
Especially with the soap operas. And I actually like Connie in this story
'cause she wasn't so "Mitch minded."
Review
by E87M2 (Town Hall)
Rating:
(out of five)
Maybe it's just
me, but it seemed like we've haven't had a continuation of the Mitch/Connie
stuff for awhile. "Something Blue" seems a long time ago. I, for
one, didn't mind hearing about M/C again—if for no other reason than
to hear Connie speaking sense again. The Eggshells title fit, as you could
almost feel the tension and the sensitivity of the subject.
Even though Jared
probably doesn't act his age, I wouldn't have him any other way. He adds the
humor that we need which includes taking things way out of proportion to make
a point. Trent was okay, and fills the "little brother" role perfectly
(although he usually acts more sensibly than his older brother!).
This was a rare time
when Whit was "in the wrong" and Connie was "right" for
a change. It brought things home to the listeners when Whit gives his heart-to-heart
conversations, even when he's wrong.
It seemed to me that
Ms. Kendall wasn't quite the supportive mother that I would have thought to
be comforting. She seemed to try to force Connie to cry, rather than being
happy that she was okay with the circumstances. However, I guess I can't blame
her, after going through similar times with her own life. I am glad that she
cares about her daughter's life, and that Connie still has a good relationship
with her mother!
Overall, the ep was
good, and I'm glad Connie is moving on.
Review
by Captain Jack (Town Hall)
I liked it a lot
it was a good ep...........
Review
by Flutem (Town Hall)
Rating:
(out of five)
I thought this
was a pretty good episode, although not top of the line. I did find Trent
a little annoying. I feel Jared's make-believe imagination has grown up a
little, from spy to psycho-analyst. He was pretty funny. I was really glad
to see June Kendall back. That soap was so funny, and the end was the best.
I thought that part was great! We got to see some different sides of Whit.
I like the part after the "meeting" when he talked to Connie. It
was like she had really come home to him again. Now that I think about it,
I might give it 4 stars, maybe 3 1/2.
I think that sometime in the long
future, I would like to see Mitch back, maybe after Connie has grown more
sensible. She did improve and wasn't so blind as her last trip progressed.
Review
by Kanimoto, age 14
Rating:
The Good Parts:
What can I say? This episode was rather funny. The movie Connie and June were
watching cracked me up. Whit actually had flaws like a HUMAN BEING!! I loved
his lines.
The Bad Parts:
Trent was cute, but he acted too mature for his age again (even though he's
DEFINITELY no genius). This episode seemed kinda like "Naturally, I Assumed."
I miss Novacom and Cal Jordan so much...
Review
by Kristen, age 14
Rating:
It was/is ok.
Not the best, but just ok... :o)
Review
by Stacy, age 11
Rating:
I really like
the episodes with Trent. I want to know more about the actor that plays him,
Corey Padnos.
Review
by Heather, age 12
Rating:
Great episode.
I really felt sorry for Connie and I understand why Trent was feeling really
awkward around her. I've felt awkward like that before when I didn't know
what to say. Trent was so funny. He helped me laugh at myself for when I feel
that way.
Review
by Paul B
Rating:
Whit's joke about
the movie they were watching was funny. He was looking for somthing hard to
hit his head on to erase the last few hours of his life from watching the
movie. Jared and Trent try to help Connie get over Mitch in their own way.
Good show!
Review
by Bradford G, age 13
Rating:
Well, this epsiode
about Connie's return to Odyssey, was sure differnt then Eugene's return back
in 1994. When Connie returned we saw how she had already learned to move on
now without Mitch. Since the Novacom Saga began Connie has showed us how God
always gets us through the good & bad times, and thats always good news.
Great important, funny epsiode. Thanks to the DeWhite brothers, Whit, and
Connie and her mom. :-)
Review
by Justine, age 13
Rating:
Eggshells was
a weird name, but it was a great episode. Jared got a bit annoying, but Trent
was hilarious with his word slip-ups. Connie and her mom were great!
The last scene with Whit and the movie was great and very funny! The thing
about the paper mache Mitch was so funny! Just bop him one Connie!
Review
by JoyUnspeakable, age 13
Rating:
This is a ok ep.
There are worse and there are better!
Review
by Pete Fernbaugh, age 22
Rating:
One of the wonderful
aspects of the second half of the 2003-2004 AIO season is the "classic
Odyssey" feel that has permeated each episode. The first half was very
ambitious as Connie and Joanne embarked on a lengthy road trip that did not
have a happy ending (for fans, anyway), while the second half has featured
shows that have a small-town, almost "Mayberry-like" feel to them
just like the pre-Novacom days of Odyssey. "Eggshells"
continued this "at home" theme with Connie's return to Odyssey after
a long vacation in Washington, D.C.
While the scenes
with Jared and Trent were amusing, I found the best scenes to be at the end,
especially the scene between Whit and Connie, where he explains why he was
so uncertain of how to act around her. Whit showed true humanity, and the
father-daughter nature of their relationship was emphasized in a way that
was reminiscent of the final scenes in "The One About Trust." His
reference to his daughter, Jana, and his expression of grief over Connie's
situation and desire to cry with her and help her through it was touching
and wonderful.
So often, Whit can
come off as a plastic character. In this episode, both he and June Kendall
brought much-needed dimension to their characters. (I hope that Whit's character
is developed even further in the two final episodes of the season.) Speaking
of June, I've enjoyed her presence in Odyssey lately. I've always liked her
character and missed her in recent years. Please continue to use the wonderful
Maggie Malloy in future episodes.
Finally, the moral
of the story was a good, old-fashioned Odyssey lesson, as well. The fact that
your parents love and care about you and want to cry with you during life's
toughest hurdles is a message that speaks to all ages.
In many ways, the conclusion to the Connie-Mitch soap opera has spoken to
me in many personal ways. Even though I'm 22, these episodes—"Something
Blue," "Living in the Gray," and "Eggshells"—helped
me in a way that they wouldn't have had if they had been aired even one year
ago. Everything Connie went through paralleled a similar personal experience
that I've been dealing with over the past several months. I could sympathize
with Connie and genuinely learn from her situation in a way that I doubt a
15-year-old could. Odyssey's ability to speak to all ages continues to amaze
me. And its continued pursuit of excellence in storytelling and originality
is refreshing in an entertainment era that is all too plastic and superficial.
May God continue to bless this program.
Review
by Ruthie, age 11
Rating:
Great! Jared is
the same Jared he always is! :-)
Review
by Bennett Charles (Town Hall)
Eggshells. Hmm.
I don't really understand how the writers come up with the titles of these
shows. "Alright guys,
let's cut out every single word that makes up the script and throw it into
Bob Hoose's hat. The picked word wins the title!"
Besides the fact that the show
was somewhat ridiculous, I thought it was pretty good. But I also remember
that this episode is supposed to be a comedy—and people often forget
the type of show it's supposed to be, and then judges the ep based on that.
Their are several things that I
liked in this episode. One thing that I thought was different was the fact
that this was a "Feel Good" episode. It wasn't something with a
big plot and complicated twists. Episodes like that are harder to portray/develop
a certain character. This time, it was people who would randomly appear here
and there, such as Jared and Trent.
Jared and Trent once again got
my vote as the dynamic duo (whatever that means). Jared's character took a
surprising turn from the ridiculous theories to the misinterpreted facts of
the world of psychology. Big difference? Not really. One often leads to the
other.
Most of my attention was on Trent.
Like me, do some of you really dislike a kid in a show that tries to be funny
by messing up on a word. Often times, those kid actors stink at doing it.
But Trent did not stink. Often times, the word that he'd accidently would
say in his sentence sounded almost too real. And I was certainly impressed,
compared to other times.
Another point comes to mind. This
is probably the first time since "I Slap Floor" that I laughed at
something Whit did/said. You have to admit, Whit was funny in a few scenes
in today's ep. It makes me think that we lost that amusing side of Whit that
left when Hal Smith left. And yes, I hate it when people compare Paul Herlinger
to Hal Smith, but I made an exception.
I also liked the fact that Connie
had a "Welcome Home" episode. It has happened in a past that episodes
don't follow through or refer to past events that had recently happened to
the character. And that ticks me off. This episode couldv'e been easily dropped,
and simply have Connie working back behind the counter in "Stubborn Streaks",
and she might refer back to her trip just once.
In the end, good episode.
One more thing: Did Nick and Aubrey
get thrown out of Whit's End? They seem to have "One day a month"
working-time shifts.
Review
by Mellow Boy (Town Hall)
I thought this
ep sunk like the Titanic. It was really boring and not a good story. I think
Trent is the worst actor. I think the writers should think of some good ideas
for the next season.
Review
by Laurie (Town Hall)
I know I have
said that I am tired of the Connie/Mitch story, but I really enjoyed this
episode. For once Connie was more mature than Whit and her mom. Jared and
Trent were very funny.
Review
by alwaysHis324 (Town Hall)
I think the title
refers to the fact that everyone was "walking on eggshells" (to
borrow the colloquialism) around Connie, trying not to upset her.
I found the episode interesting,
and a bit humorous.
Review
by Erin (Town Hall)
I liked it! I
thought Trent was very annoying but the acting was very well done. Jared was
ok. Trent could have been taken out and not missed (to me) but I think I would
have felt something was missing if they had taken Jared out. Jared is still
immature but there are people like that. (like... me!) I loved hearing
from June. We have heard a lot from her lately, but I think it would be terrible
if she wasn't there. I loved the ending when June and Connie were all crying
over the movie and Whit thought it was the most terible thing he had ever
saw! That was very classic. It really made you smile while Chris was rolling
the credits. A well done ep. Not cheap, but I don't think it will win for
the best in the album. Just a good episode to add to your collection.
Review
by happysmiler (Town Hall)
Rating:
(out of five)
I really liked
this one. I thought it was good how they dealt with Connie's problem (or not
problem). I thought that Jared and Trent were so funny! And I also liked that
Whit wasn't shown as being "perfect." I thought the last scene was
kinda silly. But, otherwise it was great! (4/5 Stars)
Review
by Me (Town Hall)
Rating:
(out of five)
The ep was pretty
good. The weirdest part was that Connie was right about something while Whit
and her mom were wrong. That doesn't happen too often. It was good to hear
her back in old form and get frustrated with someone besides Mitch.
On the other hand, Whit complaining
about the movie didn't sound very Whit-like. More of a Bernard line. Also
something random about the sound of the door of Whit's End. It closes a lot
faster than it did back in say, 1998. I don't like it. It makes the episode
sound more rushed.
Overall though, it was a good episode,
and I can definitely see how Jared would get that stuff from a health class.
Review
at Shadowpaw
(The Soda Fountain)
Rating:
(out of five)
I assume there's
plenty of Adventures in Odyssey fans out there who are just as sick and tired
of the Mitch/Connie storyline as I am. Unlike Eugene and Katrina, who have
wonderful chemistry and who's relationship has set the stage for some amazing
episodes, Mitch and Connie's relationship can be summed up in one word: Nauseating.
Eugene and Katrina took eight years to finally tie the knot... EIGHT! Can
you imagine listening to Connie and Mitch spit out 'romantic' (and I use the
term lightly) dialogue for nearly a decade? Connie Kendall was a wonderfully
charming and lovable character for much of the show's first fourteen years.
Now that she's growing up, her character's development and reputation has
been severely tarnished by a gag-inducing story arc. I'm sick of her acting
like a baby when Mitch is around, I'm tired of her whining, and I'm fed up
with the dialogue we've been forced to stomach for the past two years. It's
not Connie (the way she acted in "First Love" proves this... she
was far more mature), and it's not good for Odyssey.
Or, at least it wasn't. "Something
Blue II" signaled the end of a forgettable era: Connie and Mitch decided
to part ways. And with that, fans of the show opposed to their relationship
can breath a collective sigh of relief. Oh sure, there's lot of girls out
there who are in love with the idea of Connie being in love, and even a few
boys, but their relationship could only have been a detriment to the series.
Perhaps one day Connie should find the right guy and settle down... but not
yet. However, I'm getting wildly off topic here. The point of my rambling?
"Eggshells" is hopefully the last episode featuring the poison the
Mitch residue has left on the series. Thankfully, the episode was about Connie's
ability to get over him... thank God most of that happened off-air.
The episode itself is your average
show, with the folks in town trying to get Connie to cry on their shoulders.
Thankfully, she would have none of it and surprisingly doesn't turn into a
basket-case by the show's end. The issue certainly needed to be dealt with
as Connie can't just move on and forget this emotional and critical moment
in her life. Much to my relief it was done as quickly and efficiently as possible.
This season so far has been very strong in my mind, and I firmly believe a
large part of that is related to limited Connie use. With Eugene missing in
action, Connie's been forced to carry the show on her shoulders for the past
few years... and unfortunately, it's worked against her. Katie Leigh is a
terrific actress, but the character of Connie has been overused. In one episode,
the writers need her to be the strong mature one, and the next they need her
to be the damsel in distress. This see-saw roller coaster we've been on with
Connie has been frustrating. Personally, I'd like to see her behind the counter
at Whit's End dishing out ice cream and arguing with Eugene. But in the absence
of Eugene, I'll be happy just to have her dish out that ice cream. Maybe one
day she'll even be ready for a real job! But until then...
It was great to hear from Jared
and his younger brother, who was further developed in this episode. There
were moments where I was reminded why I spoke of his "robotic acting"
in my review for "My Girl Hallie", as sometimes his dialogue sounded
too perfect, but he's still a great kid. Perhaps the deWhite's are the family
we've been waiting for since the Barclay's moved to Pokenberry Falls. And
all this time the writers introduced the Washington family as a decoy! To
be honest, I'm more invested in the characters of Trent and Jared, than I
have been for any other kid characters (save perhaps Alex Jefferson), since
the Barclays moved. Throw in a funny father and caring mother, and we could
have ourselves another family to love and cherish.
Speaking of family dynamics, June
and Connie were great together. Considering June took a seven year leave of
absence, it's still amazing how good these two sound together. And the movie
they were watching was hilarious... Marshal Younger has yet another soap opera
scene to chalk up on his Odyssey resume, all of which have been classic.
Whit was great too. Paul Herlinger
had a superb performance in "Something Blue II" and was great again
here. The scene he had with Connie one-on-one near the end was nice, especially
the mention of Jana and her divorce. It gives us a bit more perspective on
Whit's relationship with the Whittaker-Dowds, who have seemingly dropped off
the face of the planet. And for a brief moment, I was expecting Whit to be
crying while they were watching the movie... but not here. Fittingly, Whit
asks for a bucket.
With the way the Connie and Mitch
storyline has been treated, there's no question what he wants it for. But
rest easy Whit... things are looking up!
Consensus:
Thumbs Up (23/23 positive reviews)
"Good enjoyable
episode...but not great." That pretty much sums up the reviews for
the latest Odyssey show, with most ratings falling in the three star range.
Fans are showering the show with good, nice compliments, but not too many
overwhelming praises. Universally liked was (surprisingly) Wooton. People
liked his humor and his continued maturity in these shows.
Marvin's part of
the show got mixed reviews, with some enjoying his story and others giving
it (and his character) a thumbs-down. Most didn't especially like the
"Chicken Dance" that ended the show, but universally
disliked was any mention of Whit's whites.
Review
by JoyElectric
Rating:
This was a really
fun episode! While I do think the premise was a little silly, I was rather
happy with how the story turned out. Whit watching Marvin for the weekend
reminded me of years past, giving Whit a chance to teach kids lessons. While
some of it was over the top (The Chicken Dance?), it was worth it to hear
Wooton and his brother again.
Oh, and I love Wooton.
Give the guy his own storyline. He needs an episode or two where he's paired
with Connie or Whit.
Review
by Amber, age 13
Rating:
Great episode!
I always love episodes with Wooton in them. He's so funny!
Review
by Bradford G, age 13
Rating:
Great episode.
In this epsiode you can see how lies come in all kinds of ways. And how only
telling part of the truth is the same as not telling the truth. Thanks for
helping us figure that out Whit and Wooton!!
Review
by Stacy, age 11
Rating:
This episode was
really cool. It had three stories about half-truths—the fan, the contract
and going paintballing. My favorite story was with Marvin and Trent. Marvin
learned his lesson and Trent seemed like a really good friend, wanting Marvin
to do the right thing. I really like Trent.
Review
by Catspaw, age 18
Rating:
I really enjoyed
listening to this episode, at least the parts with Wooton. He was hilarious!
At the end, with Wellington and the Chicken Dance, I found myself laughing
while following the instructions on how to do the chicken dance. I haven't
had that much fun since I had my corns removed. (I guess I've been missing
Bernard lately). Unfortunately, I did not enjoy the Marvin storyline as much.
It was okay, but not nearly as enjoyable as the Wooton/Wellington angle. Overall,
a fun episode.
Review
by Emily, age 11
Rating:
It's GREAT!!!
Review
by Paul B
Rating:
Wooton's brother
asked him to be him for a day for a meeting which backfires on him. The man
that Wooton meets endings up liking him. When Wooton won't be his brother
anymore, he tells his brother no more. Then his brother has to be Wooton and
do the Chicken Dance, which was funny. This new twin story was funny.
Review
by Elin, age 14
Rating:
Great ep! I love
Wooton episodes!
Review
by Justine, age 13
Rating:
This episode was
very disapointing because I got up at 7:00a.m. to listen to it! Marvin Washington's
acting was pretty bad. They should have had Trent be the one in trouble and
Marvin the friend who did not want to help. The Marvin thing was boring too.
I will give this episoade a 3. Wooten's situation was very silly. The chicken
dance thing was just wrong.
Review
by happysmiler
Rating:
(out of five)
I really liked
this one. Wooton is one of my favorite characters, so I always enjoy an ep
with him! He was very funny, as always! I loved the part where he drinks the
root beer! Trent and Marvin are also great characters. This episode also had
a very good lesson. Really good!
Review
by Boa
Rating:
(out of five)
I really like
Wooton, but this was a 3 starrer for me. I don't care for the episodes involving
Wooton's family—they just annoy me especially Wellington. Wooton was
funny as usual and I'm always crossing my fingers when he meets another character
that they like his personality. Can't get too much of Wooton!
Review
by Captain Jack
I really liked
Wooton in this ep......I thought it was really good
Review
by edelweiss
Rating:
(out of five)
It was fine, not
stunning, but not down-right terrible. The lesson was good, at least it wasn't
just trying to develop Odyssey characters and we had to wait until Chris told
us what the lesson was supposed to be.
Review
by James M
Rating:
(out of five)
It was good. I
liked Wooton. I figured out what the lesson was based on all that happened.
It was cool Wooton confessed to truth.
Review
by Erin
Rating:
(out of five)
I don't really
like Wooton, but this one was the best that I have ever heard! I'm not real
big on these almost split episodes (the charactors have their own story while
the another has their story and they meet up for a minute). I think it would
have been better if the story had been JUST about Wooton. Well done. Wooton
had me smiling for a while there. Good job, AIO!
Review
by Bennett Charles
Rating:
(out of five)
Every time that
I hear a Wooton episode, I feel like I shouldn't like the episode, just because
it isn't the Odyssey style in the past. It's different.
But these episodes
are brought together by so much creativity by Tory Martin. His jokes are original,
the actor is funny and talented, and in the midst of an goofy episode; the
theme stays strong. The half-truth: It's a lie that so many of us (especially
many kids) use probably every day. We sidestep the truth, but we fail to accept
it as a lie. Whit did a good job explaining that theme to Marvin.
Speaking of which,
Marvin is becoming better as a character. I think I've gotten out of the stage
of "somewhat getting annoyed at him." By the way, it seemed like
his voice was a bit different this time. Anyone else noticed it? Trent was
pretty good as usual.
I liked the story,
and as I mentioned before, I felt it was a type of style Odyssey did well.
I prefer the more realistic stories with Wooton. (Well, technically that never
really happened. But the closest that they got to it was "Bassett Hounds")
I mean, seriously, The Chicken Dance? What's up with that? Everything was
pretty good up until that part. (Well, I didn't really hate it. But it was
maybe a bit too weird for my taste.)
I have to hand it to Torry Martin
and Jess Harnell. They're like Peanut Butter and Jelly: They just taste good
together.
Sidenote: This season has been
pretty good. There hasn't been one large complaint about an episode up to
date this year. Hopefully, the next few weeks will keep up the pace, and we
can have one highly successful season.
Review
by Flutem
Rating:
(out of five)
I liked this episode.
Wooten was really funny, and, as has been said, it has a good moral.
Review
by Rosie
Rating:
(out of five)
I really liked
this episode... But the ending
made me cringe. I guess it's for the younger kids to get a laugh from.
Review
by Gandalf
Rating:
(out of five)
If
you know me, or you've read any of my past reviews, you probably know that
I despise Wooton. His immaturity, annoying voice, and weird hobbies are one
thing, but I really have a big problem with his total lack of responsibility.
And this is held up as some sort of a good thing (ex: "Welcoming Wooton").
I for one think that responsibility should be something that is taught and
encouraged on AIO. Wooton doesn't do this very often. So when I first heard
that this episode was going to be a Wooton episode, I "groaned in my
spirit." But I was in for a pleasant surprise.
For the most part, I was shocked
to find that I enjoyed this episode! Torry Martin's writing is improving (a
lot) and so is the character of Wooton. In this episode, the character is
faced with the problem of doing the right thing. Instead of having Wooton
do the right thing right off the bat, or do the wrong thing (or immature thing)
and get away with it (as usually happens with Wooton), Wooton does the wrong
thing and then regrets it. I was surprised to find he had a conscience. I
thought life was just one big joy ride for Wooton and if he thought it would
be fun to impersonate his brother, it was perfectly fine. But it wasn't. Kudos
to Mr. Martin for a job well done on this episode. If Wooton continues to
develop like he did in this episode and "Bassett Hounds," I might
actually find myself liking him...
The Marvin side of the episode
was a little weak, but the secondary part of these episodes usually are. I
don't mind it so much...it's to be expected. Though as other reviewers have
pointed out, I was disturbed by the mention of Whit's "whites.".
And I do believe Marvin's voice is changing... I'm interested to see what
the AIO writers will do with the Washingtons. Will they drop off the face
of AIO, like Curt, Oscar, Cal, and so many others? Will we see them through
this time, like the Barclays? Or will we simply not hear from Marvin for awhile
until his voice is fully changed, like Jared and Jack Davis? Only time will
tell. I have issues with the Washingtons (which I won't go into now), so I'm
a little curious to see what'll happen. Oh, I did appreciate the mysterious
absense of the word "oink."
The music, acting, etc. were all
okay but not great. Overall, it's a fairly average episode, not one of the
greatest but a very good one anyway.
Review
by Me
Rating:
(out of five)
Pretty good ep.
Glad they did it with two storylines like they used to (haven't been too many
of them lately). I agree w/Gandalf; good not to hear "oink." I always
found it to be random and pointless. About 3 and 7/8 stars.
Didn't the business man play someone
else with the same voice? He sounded familiar.
Review
by Lindsay
Rating:
(out of five)
I think this ep
was ok... I like Wooten but Trent's voice grates on every nerve! I also concur
with what's been said, this ep had a very good lesson to be learned!
Review
by Arwen
I really liked
it. 'Specially Wooten.
Review
at Shadowpaw
(The Soda Fountain)
Rating:
(out of five)
Love him or hate
him, it would appear that Wooton Bassett is here to stay. Those who oppose
him find him annoying... or at the very least an unwelcome replacement for
Eugene. Those who like him think he's hilarious... and well, that's about
all the reasons they have. I would be the latter.
So needless to say, I enjoyed the
episode. It won't ever creep into my top ten list, nor will I give it a rating
that it doesn't deserve... but it was a funny show. Wooton was at the top
of his game and it was a great premise for him to be involved in. It also
develops the relationship between Wooton and his twin brother Wellington even
further. Every scene Wooton appeared in was a highlight, and his interactions
with both Fox and his brother were well done. It's also hard to narrow down
any particular quote that was 'funny', because just about everything coming
out of his mouth is pure comedic gold. My only real wish for the character
would have been that he kept the fake accent he used when he first met Fox
Fletcher. It was a very funny accent, and his awkwardness about the whole
thing was wonderful. The Bassett's sure are an interesting family and I imagine
there's a ton of more storyline to be gleaned from the Bassett family line.
The Marvin storyline on the other
hand wasn't as interesting. He's just not a character that I find myself really
caring much about. The actor who plays him isn't very good, and he's better
used as a supporting character (such as the way he was used in "Called
on In Class"). I would have preferred the roles to have been switched,
with Trent in the lead role and Marvin the friend who doesn't want to help
him. I can understand the writers wanting to integrate members of the Washington
family into the show, but you need strong actors to carry that burden. Marvin
Washington isn't one of those people... and they have yet to explain that
whole "Oink" business which was mysteriously (yet happily) dropped.
The music was terrific as usual
(it seems a moot point to even bring it up anymore), and I especially liked
the tinkering with the Odyssey theme song during the scene where Marvin confesses
to Whit. What would Adventures in Odyssey be without John Campbell? A lot
worse... that I can guarantee.
I also had mixed reactions about
the ending. On first listening, I was a bit disappointed and thought it was
kind of cheesy. But after listening to it again, I thought it was quite funny...
especially Wellington's dry remark of how much fun he's having. A fitting
punishment for a man who thinks so little of his twin brother's uniqueness.
One other thing that bugged me was the visuals dancing across my mind of Mr.
Whittaker and his pink underwear. The mere mention of his under garments is
rather... unpleasant... especially that it's pink and Marvin and Whit are
discussing it between the two of them! Our minds do crazy (and disturbing)
things, when forced to fill in the blanks with our imagination. :o) Please
never do this again.
Consensus:
Thumbs Up (22/23 positive reviews)
Fans are cheering
the latest episode in the Mandy and Liz "feud" story arc. Most
liked how the show turned out and the twists and turns that accompanied
the end of the story. Many noted how it was great that the Mandy/Liz arc
went for several episodes, making it seem more realistic. Jared and Connie
also got many positive notes, both of them acting more mature than recently
and being good friends.
The commercial itself
got a few negative notes (because it was annoying), but the modeling plot
garnered some "thumbs up" reviews.
Review
by JoyElectric
Rating:
(out
of four)
In general,
a lot of things were good about this show. Not only did they end the Liz/Mandy
fight without dragging it out, they also had Connie as the sane one (good
thing, since she's supposed to be quite a bit older), and Jared as the friend-boy
dragged along to the mall in protest.
While the issue of modeling has
been done, it was really a secondary issue. Connie got to be the grown-up,
Jared got to be the sane one of the three (!), and The whole Liz/Mandy thing
was resolved. My favorite line had to be the "I'm still mad at you"
line that Mandy says while Liz agrees. It wasn't said in anger, but more
as an apology....which sounded perfect. It was a great episode and a great
ending.
Review
by Me (Town Hall)
Rating:
(out
of five)
Good ep. The
last five minutes weren't quite as good as the rest. Loved the comment about
UFO Monthly. I do wish Jared had said more about conspiracy theories.
Review
by Gandalf (Town Hall)
Rating:
(out
of five)
Well, so far
the season is going great. We have only had one weak episode (The Girl in
the Sink) and even it wasn't that bad. Overall, the season is a good one,
every episode so far is at least a 3 star for me (TGINS is a low three but
still a three). Split Ends is no exception. The story was a very nicely
done one. I have to say that I enjoy Kathy Wierenga-Buchanan as a writer
of normal, slice of life episodes. She has some of the cleverest ideas and
such, as long as she stays away from the romance storylines. The writting
for this episode was very witty, lots of good lines.
The acting was also good. Like
most people, I enjoyed Jared. However, I especially liked the characters
of Geneveve and Ollie. They were simply hysterical, if one enjoys that 'upper
class' sort of humor. I adore it. I would love to see Mrs. Buchanan write
a spoof of Princess Diaries or something like that, it would totally be
great.
I would have liked to see the
Mandy/Liz argument go on a little longer. Why is it that Jared and Connie
seem to be the only friends these two have besides each other? Whatever
happened to Sara? Or maybe Colby? Oh well... Some people have pointed this
out, I'll just second it: The biggest thing about this whole mini-storyline
is that it shows how much AIO needs them. Throw in a little minature storyarc
every once in awhile, it adds a LOT to the series. Kudos to Kathy for coming
up with this one and for delivering it so nicely.
One thing did bother me a little,
Connie's nostrils are uneven? It totally destroyed my picture of Connie...
Not really. But she did sort of take it a little weirdly (is that a word?).
It was nice to see her give good, solid advice, hopefully she's done with
her pining over Mitch.
Like I said, I give this episode
3 out of 5 stars, though it is the higher 3 (maybe 3 1/2).
Review by Dave (Dave's AIO Site)
The show was very
enjoyable; one of the best this season! It was nice to hear "new"
actors. Christen was okay, but Genevieve and Ollie, with their hilarous
"English" accents, really took the entire pie. I would even go
as far to say they made the show.
Jared seems to be becoming a
main character on the show. His voice is nice to hear, his non-maturity
is refreshing, and his attitude is funny. A nice forehead, huh?
Connie didn't really seem to
fit into the episode, except as a sort of peacemaker between Mandy and Liz.
But I like returning characters, so bravo!
I found the advertisment that
Mandy and Jared appeared in very funny. In fact, the whole show was funny
and up-to-date, unlike some other new episodes. It's nice to see that Adventures
in Odyssey is getting modern. Just don't get too modern!
Review
by Catspaw, age 18
Rating:
Split Ends was
a decent episode. We've been waiting a long time to see how the Mandy/Liz
friendship thing would conclude. Having to wait over so many episodes for
a resolution actually made it seem more realistic, I think. In real life,
not all conflicts are resolved in 25 minutes, or even 50 minutes. It takes
time. Jared was great—it was funny when he told Liz that the sweater
would make her look fat! He obviously had been shopping longer than he could
tolerate, which probably isn't very long.
One thing that I
found disappointing was that the audience never actually gets to hear his
taped evidence about why the model people are bad. I found the parental
involvement angle interesting. Parents are mentioned—for the modeling
contract, Liz's mother had to sign something, and Liz says that her Mom
said that there was a clause on the contract so she didn't have to do the
commercial, but no parents actually appear in the episode. How did Mandy
and Liz get to Connellsville for their audition? Neither of their parents
seemed to have been there. I think that at least one parent should have
been in the episode. Liz and Mandy's parents don't know the modeling people—would
they really trust these people enough to not be there at the same time their
daughters were there? I doubt it.
Other than that,
I enjoyed the episode and the conflict resolution. I found Connie's attempts
to fix her uneven nostrils very Connie-like.
Review
by joyunspeakable, age 13
Rating:
I liked this
one!
Review
by Sarah, age 10
I think it was
a great show! It taught kids a valuble lesson about FORGIVENESS.
Review
by Nathan Ehnis, age 15
Rating:
I loved it!
Review
by Kanimoto, age 14
Rating:
Great! The model
scouts cracked me up, and I loved the music in this ep!
Review
by Bradford G, age 13
Rating:
Finally! I'm
sure glad Mandy & Liz are friends again. Real good episode. It's kinda funny
when Jared and Mandy act to be in love with each other in the Hair commercial.
Great episode!
Review
by Paul B
Rating:
Mandy and Liz
are finally friends after some ups and downs. Good show.
Review
by Elin, age 14
Rating:
Great ep! Great
friendship lesson. It made Liz and Mandy's make up more realistic to have
their fight go on for a while. Loved the acting too.
Review
by Josh, age 18
Rating:
I must say that
I am very disappointed with today's episode. The message that it's better
being friends than holding a grudge was ruined by a VERY corny and soap
opera-like show. Don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with funny episodes,
but in trying to be funny, today's episode turned out to be VERY annoying!
I was also looking forward to hearing more of Connie because of her exceptional
maturity in "Eggshells," but it seems like she has lost all of
that in today's adventure. I really enjoy listening to AIO, but I can only
hope that there are no more "filler" episodes like this one that
fail to match the quality and depth of older shows.
Review
by Captain Jack (Town Hall)
Rating:
(out of five)
I liked it a
lot and thought it was a good ep.....
Review
by Captain Jack (Town Hall)
Rating:
(out of five)
It was fun to
listen to and wasn't boring. Good acting for the most part.
Review
by Eugene Kendall (Town Hall)
The episode
was great besides for the commercial part—it was sickening. I'm glad
Liz and Mandy are friends again.
Review
by anna k (Town Hall)
I thought this
episode was really good. It was interesting and it was awesome to have Jared
on again. He's hilarious.
Review
by happysmiler (Town Hall)
Rating:
(out of five)
This was a really
good episode. The topic, friendship, is very important. And there were a
couple of really funny lines, too! I'm really glad that Mandy and Liz finally
are friends again. Anyway, I thought it was agood ep.
Review
by Bennett Charles (Town Hall)
I'd have to
say that I wasn't "Hoorah!" on today's episode. Don't get me wrong,
I thought it was pretty good. But, I like episodes which keeps me into the
story. My mind trailed off a few times. However, I enjoyed Jared a lot.
He was perfect for the commercial with Mandy. And I would've enjoyed listening
to his tape-recorder of the two modeling angencies so that it owuld make
the episode a bit more sinister like. Liz was okay. Mandy was okay. Jared
was good. And Connie was kinda pointless. And I didn't particularly find
her nostril comments all that funny. They could've found a kid to replace
her. Why would she go shopping with Mandy, anyway?
Finally, I'd like to say that I almost felt that their could've been a second
story in this episode. Their was too much of "drawing things out"
when there could've been Connie at Whit's End having another plot.
Anyways, this was probably the
least interesting episode of the season. But that doesn't say much since
all the episodes of the season have been terrific. So, it was all right.
Review
by James M (Town Hall)
Rating:
(out of five)
I enjoyed it
and am glad Liz and Mandy are good friends again. Both Aria and Lauren did
great. Connie is back to helping the teen girls and being a mentor. Jared
was terrific as always. Great show.
Review
by Arwen (Town Hall)
I liked it,
though some parts were annoying.
One character who never ceases
to amaze me: Jared. He still thinks that everything is an evil plot, yet
in other ways he can be somewhat mature. He is a pretty good friend.
Review
by Ferder (Town Hall)
Definatly one
of the better eps this year. Probably because it was about two kid characters
that I like.
Review
at Shadowpaw
(The Soda Fountain)
Rating:
(out of five)
Rarely do we
as listeners get child-aged story arcs. In the past, we've had Novacom,
Blackgaard, Connie and Mitch, Tasha and Jason, Eugene and Katrina, and dozens
of other short story arcs that play out over a few episodes. But these have
all featured the adult characters. And aside from perhaps Connie and Lucy's
spat that started in "Connie Goes to Camp II", we hardly get to
enjoy storylines that span over more than one episode at a time. But now,
we finally had a mini story arc, and just as it was getting under way...
it's now resolved! That's not entirely a bad thing, but I have learned something
from this short story arc: We need more of them! This element is something
that lends greatly to a story. Rather than just tune in to find out what
lessons the kids are supposed to be learning in a 25 minute time slot, we
get to check up on the characters and watch them grow and mature in a way
that's not possible in just your normal episode. It adds depth to both the
characters and the plot... which is great.
It also doesn't hurt that Split
Ends is a pretty enjoyable episode. The tone is set early on with a cool
new twist on the Odyssey theme song and Jared telling Liz her sweater makes
her look fat. Not only was Jared's line delivery perfect, but I was happy
to hear a male voice of reason. Generally speaking, Kathy Wierenga (or Buchanan
now I suppose) episodes target the young girl between the ages of 8 - 12.
They're not bad episodes, but they certainly don't appeal to a 20 year old
male such as myself who just doesn't get the jokes. But here, Jared is someone
I can immediately cling to as my reason to enjoy the episode. And sure,
while I thought Jared provided many laughs (especially during his commercial
with Mandy), I was also pleasantly surprised to find out he wasn't the only
thing about the episode I enjoyed.
I liked all of it really. Mandy
and Liz, while generally not my favorite characters, were both terrific.
Their storyline didn't last that long, but you don't really want something
like this dragged out longer than is necessary. It was just nice to have
something to think about during the show: Will they make up, or won't they?
As the show progressed, and Mandy found out the real reason that Liz had
recommended her for the role, I seriously thought that was how the show
would end... Mandy even more angry at her best friend, and Liz not knowing
why. But I was happy that the two did come to a resolution especially one
that felt real between the two of them.
Connie, by the way, was the way
Miss Kendall should be. Another trademark of your typical Kathy show is
that Connie Kendall acts like your typical teenage ditz: Whiney, and dumb
as a rock. But this episode reinforces my belief that the writers are putting
her character back on track. Mitch can no longer act as her kryptonite by
making her weak at the knees and impairing your mind.
Though, as I said earlier, the
big plus was the inclusion of Jared. He's older now, but his conspiracy
theories are no longer about aliens invading earth or adults lying to their
children. As he's grown up, so too have his theories. So while it's still
the same old Jared attached to that deeper voice, his character has evolved
too. Also, it's great to hear that Jared really has become a rather compassionate
young man. He did his best to help Connie in "Eggshells", and
here, he wants nothing more than to see Liz and Mandy together again.
Again, another solid episode
to reinforce a solid season. I'm very happy with the way things have gone
so far.
Consensus:
Thumbs Up (12/14 positive reviews)
Many fans are
placing "Something's Got to Change" as the best Washington
family episode yet. Whether or not that makes them like the Washingtons
is still up for discussion. Some put this as a turning point episode—they
like the family now. Others say they may grow to like them after more
episodes like this one.
Universally liked:
the family sacrificing for each other, the Rathbones for neighbors,
the backwards carnival, Xavier, and Joel (the Connellsville kid).
Universally disliked:
Yet another mention of underwear, and the confusing geography (it takes
30 minutes to get across Odyssey?).
Review
by Caroline, age 14
Rating:
Overall a pleasant
change from the normal AIO. The acting and writing was mediocre, but the
characters, suprisingly, have some personality. The "latter/ladder"
joke was cute. Overall I enjoyed it. Good job AIO team! I can't wait to
hear back from the Washingtons.
Review
by Priceless, age 11
Rating:
A well done
piece of art! Bob Hoose is a genius! I love the great ending and the wonderful
plot. I hope that many more shows like this will air from Adventures in
Odyssey!
Review
by Catspaw
Rating:
This episode
was okay. I think that Odyssey spends too much time talking about underwear.
I don't want to hear that Marvin looks scary enough in his underwear to
scare away a polar bear, or hear Whit and Marvin talk about Whit's pink
underwear, or learn that Alex has Star Wars underwear, or that Wooton has
Powerboy boxers. Too much information!
Other than that
issue, it was okay. It wasn't earthshattering or anything, but it was good.
Marvin and Tamika do sound spoiled. When I first found out that this episode
was about the Washington's, I hoped that they would move away. They did
move, but not far. I guess with some more time, the Washington's will continue
to grow on me until I enjoy them. They are not my favorite characters by
any means, but nobody said they had to be. They'll have an interesting time
living next to Bart! Incidentally, that also means that they live on the
same street as Wooton. That sure is an interesting and well-populated street—Mandy
lives there too.
Review
by Justine, age 13
Rating:
The first thing
I thought when I turned on the radio this morning was "Oh, no...not
anther Washington family episode." It seems to me that the Washington
family's adventures are all taken from telivision. The Mystery at Tin Flat
was a spin-off on reality telivision. The old and icky house that the Washington's
moved into in Something's Got to Change was just too much like Disney's
" Haunted Mansion." In fact Mr. Washington almost sounded like
Eddie Murphy for a second there. I was sort of hoping that they would move
away!
Review
by Bradford G, age 13
Rating:
Great episode!
One of the best all season. We need more episodes like this and "Living
in the Gray." We need to hear more of how God is always there to help
us in times of need, but he isn't just there in times of need, He's always
there. And I'm glad people like Whit are there to help spread this word.
In closing, I sure feel sorry for the Washingtons since their new neighbors
are the Rathbones!
Review
by a listener
Rating:
I think this
episode was very good, for one thing because my family and I have gone through
this before. We've moved three times since I've been born, always because
of God's leading. I think this portrayed that very well, just like "A
Prayer for George Barclay" did. And the funniest part was when the
Rathbones turned out to be the Washingtons' next-door neighbors! :)
Review
by Joy Electric
Rating:
This is my favorite
episode so far this season. It seems like they are ready to flesh out the
Washington family, and they did a good job of it so far. I especally appreciated
Xavier's optimism about the new house...it shows how he is really a bit
more mature than the other kids.
The only thing to me that is
odd is the distances to Connellsville. I can see how moving across town
could cut 30 minutes in traffic, but I didn't realize Bart lived so far
out of town. I just got done watching "A Wrinkle in Time," and
think someone's mastered the Tesser Act here.
Still, I was happy to see something
happen with the Washingtons that made them worth caring about. It was good
to hear Ed at the New Whit's End and his uniquie spin on his work there.
I'd love to hear more about it.
Now, let's just hope they don't
start a zoo.
Review
by Bennett Charles (Town Hall)
Great show.
I'm sure lot's of people assumed that they weren't going to move before
the show. The story worked well, and lots of descriptions of the family
was given, including some about Xavier. It was the first show that I felt
comfertable with the family. The past shows just helped to build that ease
up.
Ooh...best part: Being the Rathbone's
neighbour. That opens a few doors of excitement.
All in all, great show.
Review
by Captain Jack (Town Hall)
This is my favorite
Washington ep so far!
Review
by happysmiler (Town Hall)
This was a really
awesome ep! Wow! I really like the Washingtons anyway. I went through an
experience just like that 3 years ago. We moved across town, and I really
didn't want to. I liked our old house. But, I also realized that it's better
here where God wants us. Change is always something hard to deal with, so
it's an important topic to cover!
Review
by edelweiss (Town Hall)
Having moved
13 times by the time I was 11, I appreciate this episode. I thought it was
the best Washington ep and overall pretty good. But what's with the underwear
jokes?!
Review
by James M (Town Hall)
Rating:
(out of five)
The ep was cool.
I liked the Connellsville kid. But yeah, 30 minutes from one side of Odyssey
to another? I live in a town of 30,000 or so (same as Odyssey) and its 30
minutes to other towns. It takes 30 minutes on I-20 from one side of Atlanta
to another. That doesn't seem quite right.
Whit may hang out
at Washingtons' cause Ed is one of his managers.
Xavier is cool.
I liked backwards carnival. I liked how they will make sacrifces and new
home to be closer.
Review
at Shadowpaw
(The Soda Fountain)
Rating:
(out of five)
The Barclay
family was a nuclear unit that everyone could relate to. Jimmy and Donna
were your typical brother and sister combination who argued about anything
and everything, but really loved each other deep down inside. Over in the
Jacob household, Robyn and Melanie, sisters in real life, also bickered
back and forth. Their simple fights were real to listen to, and made them
immediately accessible to listeners. Over the years, many families have
come and gone but none have truly been embraced by fans. After today's episode,
I think the Washington family is a group that I can grow to love.
When they were first introduced,
I wanted to like them. I didn't want them to be like the Shepards who live
on Tom's farm and rarely interact with the town, or the Mulligans who own
their own zoo and introduce a new family member ever single show. I wanted
them to be normal. It's funny, but the more interesting and different a
family is, the more annoying they are to listen to because there's not much
that we can relate to. I prefer an average household, with an average income,
and an average number of family members. That way, they feel real and make
their everyday adventures exciting to listen to. Very few people have owned
a dozen different animals and had to stop their land from being flooded...
but how many people have had to move to a different house? Simple storylines
can be far more fulfilling then over the top (as I've said many times before).
Today was no exception.
Though, on the other hand, the
episode fit with the theme of my review: Average. It wasn't a terrible show,
and with each and every listening I liked it more and more. But while Ed
and Elaine are terrific, keeping their family together through hard times
and actually sounding like real parents... I have a hard time buying into
Marvin and Tamika. I just don't believe anything they say because it sounds
like they're acting (and poorly acting at that). Whenever it comes to critiquing
a show, I always find it hard to talk about the younger actor's ability
to act. What right do I have to judge them? Especially when they are so
young and have so much to learn. But when I think about child actors from
15 years ago, and how talented they were, and compare them to the more professional
actors of today, I just find it ironic that the unprofessional actors were
so much stronger. Sure, there are some exceptions (Alex, Mandy, Nathaniel
and Sarah were all very strong), but overall the acting if the children
of Odyssey has been a weak point over the last few years of the show. Though
I would say that Xavier has been quite good in the shows he's been in.
I thought the story was great
though. The 'Reverse Carnivale' idea was kinda neat, and I like that they
checked in on Whit's End Connellsville. It's good to show the audience that
it's still around, but not focus on it too much as it's extremely confusing
to hear about both places. It was also nice to see the family struggle with
the decision to move, as any family would, but ultimately accept it as the
right thing to do. It wasn't the most original idea, but the way in which
it was done was original and I like that. Though, one thing that didn't
make sense to me was that from their old house it was a 45 minute drive
to Connellsville but at their new place it's 15. For one thing, I've always
believed that Connellsville was roughly 30 minutes away from Odyssey. What
I didn't know was that a town the size of Odyssey is big enough to shave
off 30 minutes by moving across town. I live in a city of nearly one million
people, and to drive from the left most corner of the city to the bottom
right takes less than an hour. I can't imagine a town with the population
of Odyssey would be a 30 minute drive through town.
Still, as much as I had some
problems with the acting and the time it takes to get to Connellsville,
I still enjoyed the show and I do enjoy the Washington family as whole.
They may never be the Barclays... but they are still better than dealing
with farm animals on a weekly basis.
Consensus:
Thumbs Up (33/36 positive reviews)
Every once in
awhile an episode comes along that is so "out there" and different
that it divides fans. Most love it (or like it a lot), while others
are a little uncertain how to react. "No Way Out" is one of
those episodes. After the first half of the season finale, most fans
are left with more questions than answers and are reserving their final
judgment until Part 2 airs. However, initial reaction is very positive.
Fans cheered that the episode didn't sound like any previous episodes
and liked the unique format.
Reviewers also
gave high marks to the Washington family...they continue to rise in
popularity, despite many fans initial uncertainty to them. The return
of Jason Whittaker put smiles on many faces as well. According to listeners,
the hands-down favorite scene was the one where Connie and Jason listen
to the various sounds in the background of Whit's phone call. Listeners
also say that the best line of the show is Jason's "Boy Scouts"
response (though some wondered if it was a half-truth).
Fans are less
certain about some of the acting in the episode, however. Whit's acting
is sometimes mentioned as a low point, though others think he did very
well. Several potential logic problems are also being raised, with reviewers
wondering if they will be addressed in the season finale coming next
week.
Review
by Dave
Rating:
It's strange
sometimes how things just blow your mind. The general concept for "No
Way Out" blows your mind, but when you actually sit down to hear
it, you relize that it's actually quite simple.
How can AIO say that a trap-door
is not a door? I'm not sure, but the concept of there being no doors or
windows really tickled me. It's mind-boggling to just think of it...but
thank goodness there is a way out!
I really can't think of anything
much to say about this show. It was really, really good and also really,
really surprisingly slow. We get three "degrees" of adventure:
