1.28.2013

Television: The Following, "Chapter Two"

A nice job was done setting up the question of whether the boy Joey might be in danger; are Carroll's little fans a threat to the boy? While one would assume they would revere the son of their idol, it largely depends on Carroll's instructions. And then one of the kidnappers admits to hating kids and wanting to snap the kid's neck besides. So kudos to the writers for providing tension.

More tension, too, from leaving the audience wondering about Parker's loyalties.

Less amazing was the continued probing of Hardy's history with Carroll's ex-wife (Claire). This part of the show's arcing plot remains rote and uninspired. I won't say there's no chemistry—there's definitely something, but there's no (for lack of a better way to explain it, and going with the kitchen theme) seasoning? (Also Claire looks a little too much like Kim Raver from 24.)

Carroll's transparent maneuverings in gaining followers, too, lacks subtlety. Any kid who went through grade school recognizes that tone of voice he uses as the one you run away from. But I guess if you're going to join a "kill club" (and really that's what this is), you aren't looking to run away from the guy trying to lure you into a car with promises of candy and puppies or whatever.

Minor points: Do those guys have really bad peripheral vision? And did no one smell that body in the wall? And is every episode going to end with one of these little chit-chats between Hardy and Carroll? Because that's going to get tiresome very quickly, being force fed Joseph Campbell and/or basic plotting structure. I know they're going for the Hannibal Lecter/Clarice Starling thing, but it really needs to be used sparingly in order to remain effective. There's some basic plotting for you.

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