22 days left and we're continuing on my countdown to Miracle Day, Torchwood re-watch! I'll be watching an episode a day and blogging bits and thoughts. With any luck this is gonna read like an episode guide and commentary. Let's dive right in!

Episode: Combat (Series 1 Episode 11)

Written By: Noel Clarke

Original Air Date: 24 December 2006

Sentence Sum-Up: Owen infiltrates Weevil fight club.

Notable New Characters:

Mark Lynch (Alex Hassell): Realtor by day sleazy Weevil fight club member by night.

Janet (Paul Kasey): Torchwood's pet Weevil, we've seen her before but she was a major star in this episode.

Favorite Quote:

Tosh: "You want to release a Weevil in the middle of Cardiff? "
Jack: "Not exactly in the middle, a little to the side."

Never Noticed:

Noel Clarke!! The fellow who plays Mickey in Doctor Who wrote this episode. Apparently he writes as well as acts! That came out of nowhere and I've certainly never noticed it.

At Mark's place there is a giant photo of a boxing match on the wall. That's a bit on the nose isn't it? That would be like a serial killer having a Dexter poster up. Although I don't know maybe a serial killer would have a Dexter poster up...How about if Jack put an X-Files poster up in the Hub?

Mark says very randomly "Something's coming, out there in the darkness, something's coming" a very oddly place warning and the first we've heard of something lurking in the darkness since Suzie made a similar comment in They Keep Killing Suzie I never noticed that moment and I am wondering about it now. With Suzie it made sense, she had been dead, seen things, why would Mark say that? I think we're supposed to wonder, they are laying hints for the season closer but how do they explain Mark saying that? Is he influenced by someone?

After she tells Rhys the truth and Retcons him (and trust me I'm getting to that) Gwen shows up and the Hub with pizza boxes. Very reminiscent of the first episode and she seems just as lost. I wonder if that was intentional.

WTF Moments:

At the start of the episode Owen is acting normal and he sort of rapidly swings into a suicidal rage/depression. He gets quiet once he's alone with Gwen and then goes off on her and switches into meltdown mode the rest of the episode. If it was supposed to be him trying to fake that he was fine he did it too well. I really thought Owen was over it and then I had the rug pulled out from under me.

Jellied Eels. Has to be said, Tosh is brilliant in this episode. She goes from sticking up for Weevil rights with Jack to creating a seriously thought out cover for Owen. She's amazing and not a bit catty this episode. But jellied eels? C'mon Tosh you can do better than that.

Boys and fighting. I am so over it. Fight club was good but if I said I understood the impulse men has to fight I would be lying. I don't get it, men are weird. But if we're accepting that that's the case fine. I just don't like it, I give it a WTF for sheer disdain, ti doesn't interest me, it was the focus of the episode and I didn't care.

To add to that I am giving a complete WTF to them first off using the Weevils in the fight club but especially to Mark for keeping one in his upstairs lair to beat when he feels like it. That's ridiculous and horrible. I get that hes supposed to be horrible but really? That's one step up from puppy kicker.

Owen. Owen is way over the top and all over the place. I've already mentioned his sudden change in mood that didn't feel right but I also think Owen is overreacting. I think even if he loved her, which honestly I'm not sold on being able to love someone so thoroughly in so short a time, he's being a bitch about it! Suck it up, people lose their lovers all the time they don't all go crazy suicidal! I think there needs to be another explanation for his reaction, keep reading I will mention a thought in my random rants about that.

The dead guy's phone. Why did they leave it in the Hub? Seems a little silly. They wouldn't want to keep it for things like convenient texts with location data? And how about the texter? The person notifying members of Weevil fight club? They know that Torchwood has the phone (the talked to each other) why would they still send the address? Is it a mass text and they didn't think? That seems off. Or are they setting them up for a trap? It really seems someone didn't think something trough. I just don't like this bit.

Random Rants:

I love Jack and Tosh in this episode. I am really noticing the way they play off each other on this time through the series and both John and Naoko are great. I adore the scene with the phone ringing on the corpse and the ringer. It was funny. Tosh: "Don't answer it" Jack: *answers it*. I love that that is there relationship. Also, was I the only one thinking Jack can't let a phone ring? The Dead Line? Anyone?

Gwen, Gwen, Gwen. Let me tell you, Gwen needs a good slap. I am so over her. I am so over it. I am done giving her a second chance, I think I hate her more now than last time I watched! Let the bashing begin! First of all, how self centered is she!? She is whining at Owen about her problems when he's dealing with something and she's just going on and on. If I was Owen i would've gone off on her too. When she confessed to Rhys what she'd been doing, or who rather, I thought maybe she's redeeming herself. Maybe I'll forgive her and so will Rhys. Even though I knew it was coming it was still a knock when she told Rhys she'd drugged him. What is wrong with her!? You either want to come clean or you don't! She doesn't get to unburden herself and not face any consequences. That just makes her a worse person! Rhys calls her a selfish bitch and man do I agree. Later in the episode she's broken up about it and crying, I think we're supposed to feel bad for her but really she deserves to feel bad. She's supposed to be this huge hearted person who loves to much. Hell of a way of showing it! Hussy!! OK. I feel better, I will now try giving her another chance. I don't want to hate this character. I think Eve Myles is great.

Owen asks "Do you always know what's best Jack?" I've never thought about it but having watched later episodes and knowing how Owen came to Torchwood and how Jack seemed to him do you think that is where a bit of this is coming from? And do you think his past heartbreak is a factor in why he's crumbling emotionally? I hope so, if I believe there is more too it that what we are shown here I feel bad for Owen, otherwise he comes off a bit too whiny.

MVC (Most Valuable Character):

Even though she didn't have a big part I'm going to say Tosh. She wasn't overly featured but she got things done. She's a clever one as I described earlier and she added bits to the episode to make me like it more. Every time she was on the screen I was happy to see her. Yay Tosh.

MVA (Most Valuable Actor):

I'm going to surprise you all and say Eve. The fact that I am so annoyed and I so want to slap Gwen, that I could get so revved up, is a testament to how brilliant Eve Myles is. She is a very convincing selfish shrew and that's not easy to do. I believe she's Gwen and while I hate everything the character does, it seems authentic she genuinely seems like a horrible person who is struggling with all her horrible actions. Well played Eve.

Episode Grade:

B-
I flip-flopped about what to give this. Sometimes I think I hate this episode. Sometimes I think it's average. I gave it a B- because it's not as good as the others but I'm not sure it's as terrible as I sometimes think it is. Certainly not a favorite or mine but it does have some good points. Ok pretty much it's just Tosh and the good cop/bad cop Jack/Ianto scene. But those make up for the rest I think.

Tomorrow's Episode:Captain Jack Harkness  (Series 1, Episode 12). Remember, I'll be live tweeting my re-watch on the @BarrowmanDay twitter at 12:00am PST (US - West coast) and 8:00am GMT (UK). Hope you all can watch with me and chat.

That's it for today! Hope you enjoyed my run down. What did you all think of this episode? Did you notice anything new? What grade would you give it? xx

<3Dana

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23 days left and we're continuing on my countdown to Miracle Day, Torchwood re-watch! I'll be watching an episode a day and blogging bits and thoughts. With any luck this is gonna read like an episode guide and commentary. Let's dive right in!

Episode: Out of Time (Series 1 Episode 10)

Written By: Catherine Tregenna

Original Air Date: 17 December 2006

Sentence Sum-Up: Three travelers from 1953 come through the Rift and struggle assimilate.

Notable New Characters:

Diane Holmes (Louise Delamere): A pilot who came through the Rift in her plane. Her and Owen fall in love. Rather quickly.

John Ellis (Mark Lewis Jones): Shop owner and family man who came through the Rift in Diane's plane. He has a particularly hard time with the current state of the world. He doesn't see the point in living if it's not in the life he's built for himself.

Emma-Louise Cowell (Olivia Hallinan): A young woman who came through the Rift in Daine's plane. She has a passion for fashion that she puts to use in her new life in the 21st century. I'm obsessed with her pink coat. And her lapel pin.

Favorite Quote:

Diane amazed at the door opening: "How did it do that?"
Ianto: "It's automatic. It knows you're there."
Diane: "But how?"
Ianto: "There are wave bouncing detectors which emit high-frequency radio waves and then look for reflections—"
Diane: "Bananas!"
Ianto: "Of course bananas are far more interesting."

Never Noticed:

Let's start with what is now my new favorite scene in this episode. It's just random and adorable. I am posting the YouTube of it below it starts at 8:50:

It's just a scene that needs to be in there to get the story from point A to point B but the actions that go along with the words are enjoyable! I'm gonna walk you through the breakdown.

In the first scene we see letters on the Sky Gypsy and when I went to read it one character or another kept getting in the way. And all I could make out with the start and end of it. The start was G and the end was DL. GDL. I thought I was seeing things. For the record the full letters on the plane turned out to be G-AIDL.

Emma is wearing a lapel pin. And it looks a bit like a larger version of the pin Ianto's been wearing. It will haunt me forever. Someone ask Gareth what the story is!

Tosh and Jack. Over the last few episodes whenever Jack is struggling he ends up with Tosh and he acts differently around her. In the episode with Estelle you see him drinking. In this episode after John dies, he is lounging on the couch in a way that is very stripped away from his Captain persona. It's subtle but he's getting used to confiding in her and when she asks questions he tends to answer. I like their relationship.

WTF Moments:

I have none. This episode is wonderfully written without any major flaws or upsetting moments. I suppose my new favorite scene I discussed before could be slightly WTF. No, not really, just the picture on the wall. No idea what that's about.

Random Rants:

Owen in this episode. It's the first episode we really get into Owen and it's the first time we see the more redeeming qualities he has. I think most Owen fans starter to really like him in this episode. As Cyberwoman and Greeks Bearing Gifts where introductions to the depths of Ianto and Tosh, this was Owen's coming out, so to speak. Upon reflection the episode doesn't feel as much about him as it does about Jack but it is the start of Owen's development as a character and an Owen-centric story arch.

Really lovely acting by Burn and Louise (Diane). Their on-screen chemistry is phenomenal and their characters really challenge each other. I think it was a surprising relationship but one that really worked. Ultimately I think they had to get rid of Diane, I couldn't see her as a constant presence on the show or in Owen's life. She works better as a tragedy Owen has lived through than a brightness in his life.

Gwen in this episode, part 1. This writer really likes to put Gwen in her place and focus on the flaws in the character. She has Rhys call her out for lying and he makes a statement about how easy it is for her to lie. And during a talk with Emma about the 21st century and sex Emma says "I'm really not the kind of girl who sleeps around"  and Gwen goes sheet white. It's sort of brilliant. I think the writer really wanted Gwen to feel like shit for what she's done. Let me get this right, we're supposed to relate to Gwen and like her because she's flawed? I am not that flawed.

Gwen in this episode, part 2.We see in her protectiveness of Emma the starts of Mama Gwen. We see that she is over-protective and controlling. Emma is no one to her but she's trying to police her life. I think this is exactly what Anwen has to look forward to. "Don't talk to strangers, call me when you get there" and a sex talk about how it's ok to sleep around for fun but that sex should be special. And poor Anwen is going to be locked up as soon as she's old enough to walk. If she has a prayer of a life outside Gwen's meddling it's via intervention through Rhys.

The next paragraph has SPOILERS FOR CHILDREN OF EARTH I feel sort of silly putting spoiler alerts on COE forever but I know some STILL don't know. I am being over-cautious because it's such a huge spoiler.

The scene where John and Jack die in the car. They are gassed to death....in Ianto's car. If I didn't know better I would think that was tragic foreshadowing for what happens to Ianto in COE. I so know better because we know they kept meaning to kill Ianto and they only finally got around to it in COE. I belive he was supposed to die in Cyberwoman and I know for a fact it was supposed to be him rather than Owen dying and returning. The just kept keeping him longer because they loved him. And then...well, day 4. Just a funny observation.  Also, do you think he kept that car? The car his (maybe) lover and another died in? It's a bit disturbing.

MVC (Most Valuable Character):

Know who I really love who always stands out in this episode? Emma. Emma is a great gal who really takes control of her life and adapts to the situation well. She's cute as a button and she's spunky. She really makes the worst of a terrible situation and she' the poster child for Rift victims. Olivia plays her brilliantly and it's just a stand-out role.

MVA (Most Valuable Actor):

I want to be fair but I want to be honest about my feelings. It seems like I'm supposed to give this to Burn Gorman and he did have a great episode but as I mentioned before I think Jack stands out more and John definitely does. I don't know how many will agree but I think John Barrowman is a scene-stealer in this even if most of his scenes are him reacting as opposed to acting. I think that's actually much harder to act and the complex array of emotions Jack went through really pushed John. I love seeing Jack's reaction to people from that time. He's so nostalgic and also sad. He's struggling with their difficulties and trying to avoid those dilemma's within himself. John asks Jack to not condemn him to live. Talk about on the nose. I think this is an episode we got to see a lot of the sadness to Jack's character just by his response to the guest characters. When thinking back on this episode, my thought's linger on Jack, not Owen and that's down to John I think.

Episode Grade:

A+
This episode is nearly flawless. I can't complain about anything. I think it's just great. I had the hardest time writing this blog because I had no idea how to narrow down towns of brilliant moments, quotes and performances. I have a talent crush on Catherine Tregenna, she's killed it. It's easier for me to go on about things I hate, when I love something this much I just have no words. End.

Tomorrow's Episode: Combat (Series 1, Episode 11). Remember, I'll be live tweeting my re-watch on the @BarrowmanDay twitter at 12:00am PST (US - West coast) and 8:00am GMT (UK). Hope you all can watch with me and chat.

That's it for today! Hope you enjoyed my run down. What did you all think of this episode? Did you notice anything new? What grade would you give it? xx

<3Dana

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24 days left and we're continuing on my countdown to Miracle Day, Torchwood re-watch! I'll be watching an episode a day and blogging bits and thoughts. With any luck this is gonna read like an episode guide and commentary. Let's dive right in!

Episode: Random Shoes (Series 1 Episode 9) 

Written By: Jacquetta May 

Original Air Date: 10 December 20061 

Sentence Sum-Up: Gwen can't resist the urge to investigate when Torchwood groupie Eugene Jones dies.

Notable New Characters: 

Eugene Jones (Paul Chequer): Torchwood groupie and alien artifact collector who dies in a hit and run accident. He sticks around, as a ghost, to help Gwen investigate his untimely end.  He has a alien eye that turns out to actually be an alien eye. He's in love with Gwen who never payed him attention while he was alive. Adorable despite his quirks.

Gary (Celyn Jones): Eugene's best friend. Worst person ever. He pretty much caused Eugene's death and screwed him over. But we're supposed to forgive him because he's sad about it.

Favorite Quote: 

Eugene: [narrating] The average life is full of near misses and absolute hits, of great love and small disasters. It's made up of banana milkshakes, loft insulation, and random shoes. It's dead ordinary and truly truly amazing. What you've got to realize is it's all here now. So breathe deep and swallow it whole because take it from me, life just whizzes by.

Never Noticed: 

When they leave the accident site and return to the Hub Tosh says "Couldn't even cross the road without messing it up." Not only do I not recall that line I am starting to realize that in the early episodes, in addition to being quiet, Tosh is selectively catty. That was just mean and uncalled for. Was that necessary? Even if he was annoying and followed them around she had to reminisce about the dead and emphasize he was a failure? I'm not loving this side of Tosh.

I never noticed how often we see the Torchwood screen saver. But I have in these last few episodes. I sort of love it.

WTF Moments:

Eugene can't touch anything but he can sit in the SUV. I know that the idea withe ghosts in general is they can get around but they can't effect things. But it never made sense to me why they can touch the ground of sit in a seat. I was always more pleased with ghosts that float slightly. I don't know. I realize that I'm just supposed to accept it, but I don't want to!

When Gwen and Owen are having a tiff he says she should just do Eugene's autopsy herself. And he start to go over it, like he is actually going to talk her through it. And she picks up the scalpel and goes for him. I know that he's dead and she can't kill him, but I also don't think she's qualified for this. ANd really an autopsy? There was nothing suspicious about how Eugene died I'm not even sure why she's compelled to investigate what led up to it. I guess it's Eugene lingering, making her want to. But really Gwen is being unreasonable. Even if she lucks into a find.

How many people does Gwen kiss? Other than Rhys her boyfriend! I feel like she's kissed everyone! And slept with Owen as well. What for? What is wrong with her? Loose lips is officially getting on my nerves. I adore Rhys. Whatever, Eugene get's a kiss, she's handing them out!

Random Rants:

The food in this episode. Let me tell you, every time I watch, or even think about watching I get cravings! Now I really want 2 eggs ham and chips. And then I want a banana milkshake. I cannot tell you how hard it is to get a banana milkshake in the US! I usually have to make them myself. Every time I watch. Now I'm hungry. I wonder if John likes banana milkshakes, we know he's fond of bananas. Mind out of the gutter people, he likes fruit is all I'm saying! 

Ianto. There needs to be more Ianto. There are certainly episodes in the first series where he is lacking bit for some reason this one always stands out. I always spend the whole time thinking, I wish Ianto was in this scene. I know it's not a particularly team heavy episode in general but, worth mentioning. I miss Ianto.

Last night watching with the @BarrowmanDayy twitter followers I noticed a trend. Most fans do not like this episode. They don't think it feels like Torchwood and some went so far as to say it was their least favorite episode ever. I had to think about this. Going in I was feeling positive, I generally count it amongst the episodes I quite like because I did like Eugene.  And so I watched it again and I listened to all the complaints and I think I've sussed out the issue.

It goes without saying that this is a particularly team light episode. Most of the story is told from Eugene and Gwen helps him along. I think it's a great idea that didn't quite come together as hoped. If I had to guess I am going to assume they were trying to duplicate the success of episodes of Doctor Who where we get a story having very little to do with the Doctor and we hardly see him. The obvious example (and it's not the only one) is Blink. Now blink is a brilliant episode and considered by many fans casual and dedicated to be their favorite. So what worked so well with Blink that was missing in Random Shoes? 

I think it was the villain honestly. There really wasn't one was there? There was a mystery and a interesting character telling a story but there was no overarching intensity making us forget that we haven't seen the characters we're accustomed to. I think the weeping angels could have made us forget that Jack was missing (if only for a while). It felt a bit like a filler episode with a specific purpose. They wanted to focus on Gwen and they wanted to do it in a way where there was no real danger so it made sense she was on her own. They wanted to prove that she was capable of doing something right, but I'm not sure they even did that. While she solved the case it was more out of luck and help from Eugene. I think this could have been a great episode but just ended up OK because still green not really threatened Gwen Cooper isn't enough to hold our attention. At least not yet.

MVC (Most Valuable Character)/MVA (Most Valuable Actor):

Don't really need separate sections today. It's Eugene Jones and Paul Chequer. He really is the main character of the episode. He carries it and he manages to make us care about him in a very short time. Despite my outlined issues overall the one thing they got quite right was Eugene. He was heartbreakingly adorable and I didn't even begrudge him being in love with Gwen. He was interesting and sad and quirky and Paul acted that beautifully. He's really the hero of this episode and the best thing about it, hands down. Well there was also that shirt Jack was wearing...but no Eugene was good.

Episode Grade:

B-
I thought this episode would grade higher going in. I remembered it fondly but I think now I am being a more critical viewer. It's a little sad that my fan goggles aren't on blinding me to weak episodes. This was a weak episode. It's not bad, it just doesn't measure up. I'll give it a B- it was slightly below par. But I liked Eugene. I was sad to see him go.

Tomorrow's Episode: Out of Time (Series 1, Episode 10). Remember, I'll be live tweeting my re-watch on the @BarrowmanDay twitter at 12:00am PST (US - West coast) and 8:00am GMT (UK). Hope you all can watch with me and chat.

That's it for today! Hope you enjoyed my run down. What did you all think of this episode? Did you notice anything new? What grade would you give it? xx

<3Dana

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It's Tuesday. That means it's time for the Torchwood this week wrap up. Below are this weeks offerings:

INTERVIEWS/ARTICLES:

On the Set of "Torchwood: Miracle Day" With Eve Myles, Kai Owen and Bill Pullman

How Much Gay Will Make It Into Torchwood: Miracle Day?

Interview with Russell T. Davies: The "T" Is for "Television"

Torchwood: Miracle Day - Publicity (Lots of good stuff)

TORCHWOOD BILLBOARDS IN AMERICA ( I am bitter that I haven't seen them and I anticipate a car crash when I do. Sorry in advance cars in front and behind me)

John Barrowman's return to Doctor Who has 'already been discussed'

PICTURES:

Torchwood: Miracle Day Pics

Big Beautiful Torchwood ad on the 405 (Yup, this is where the car accident will happen. Maybe I'll let someone else drive me there.)

Then John Barrowman went photo happy on Twitter. I'll post the Torchwood relevant one first but the rest are too good not to share as well!

GARETH AND JOHN!!!
thought you might like this. Very recent. :) (@Team_Barrowman TwitPic)

Me at my birthday..and my candles are spinning. (@Team_Barrowman TwitPic)

scott at my BDay party (@Team_Barrowman TwitPic)

VIDEO John posted, of him and his pup CJ (Captain Jack) in the pool. Best thing ever. (@Team_Barrowman TwitPic)
And another VIDEO of John and CJ in the pool. (@Team_Barrowman TwitPic)

John, Scott and the pups. (@Team_Barrowman TwitPic)

Saturday tweeting  (@Team_Barrowman TwitPic)

VIDEOS:

This past week Starz released 6 character videos to promote Torchwood: Miracle Day to different news sources and fans had to find them. Once we found them all  Starz posted a video of them all together on their YouTube.  Below is the official US only version. Right after I'll post links to the region free version, in the form of the individual videos. I promise it's the same content, the longer one is just them all combined.

Rex - Region Free

Jilly - Region Free

Gwen - Region Free

Oswald - Region Free

Esther and Jack - Region Free (on tumblr)

REMINDERS:

Torchwood is included in the following magazines, so try to get them:

"TV & Satellite Week" has Torchwood: Miracle Day on the cover. I believe that is out now. It's UK only.

US fans check out Entertainment Weekly's June 17th Issue. Miracle Day is featured in their summer TV preview! That's in newsstands now. (Super 8 cover)

BONUS:

We've Got the Number for 'Girl Number 9'
(The web-thriller 'Girl Number 9' starring Gareth David-Lloyd is now being released in the US. This is the link to episodes 1 and 2 the rest will upload every week so be sure to check back. I've seen the whole thing, it's awesome, highly recommended. It's also written and directed by Torchwood and Doctor Who writer James Moran. My favorite of his episodes is Torchwood series 2 episode 2, Sleeper. Genius. Ok shutting up, go watch now!)

That's it for this week! If you've seen more feel free to post links in the comments below, to tweet them at us @BarrowmanDay or send us an email at [email protected]. As always, we're not claiming any ownership of the content. Did I miss anything? xx

<3Dana

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25 days left and we're continuing on my countdown to Miracle Day Torchwood re-watch! I'll be watching an episode a day and blogging bits and thoughts. With any luck this is gonna read like an episode guide and commentary. Let's dive right in!

Episode: They Keep Killing Suzie (Series 1 Episode 8)

Written By: Paul Tomalin and Dan McCulloch

Original Air Date: 3 December 2006

1 Sentence Sum-Up:When the team is forced to resurrect Suzie she tries to stay alive by stealing the life from Gwen.

New Characters:

Kathy Swanson (Yasmin Bannerman): A police Detective who calls in Torchwood when a series of murders are linked to them. She resents Torchwood and Jack for being entitled and cocky. Which to be fair they sort of are.

Favorite Quote:

Ianto: "If... you're interested, I've still got that stopwatch."
Jack: "So? "
Ianto: "Well. Think about it. Lots of things you can do with a stopwatch."
Jack: "Oh. Yeah. I could think of a few."
Ianto: "There's quite a list."
Jack: "I'll send the others home early. See you in my office in... ten."
Ianto: "That's ten minutes, and counting."

(I had the hardest time choosing here, "there's quite a list" of great quotes in this episode. So I went with the popular vote and the scene I think we all quote more often than any other.)

Never Noticed:

I don't remember them coming across the Emily Dickinson book in Suzie's storage unit. I think maybe that was a bit too on the nose putting that there and in their mind. I think Jack could have just realized that that poem part was Dickinson, or Ianto. Both really know a lot, Jack because he's been around so long and Ianto because he knows everything. Not that it matters really, except for one thing....keep reading for that in the WTF moments section.

On two separate occasions Owen mentions Ianto's stopwatch which we haven't seen before. Have we? I feel like it came out of nowhere and now they are making a big point of it. It's certainly more present later, but again I think they over emphasized it. While I love all the stopwatch moments I think it was a little over the top. And then of course it becomes an important part of the episode with the famous "stopwatch scene" I feel like this episode sets things up in a way that is sort of heavy-handed.

There's a height chart in the interrogation room. And very randomly placed. It seems like where they would take mugshots, which I just can't imagine. And they never use it in the show as far as I recall. I wonder why they chose to put it in and in that spot.

There's a pair of 3D glasses hanging from the lamp in Jack's office. Presumably they belonged to the Doctor. Didn't spot that before. I have read about Jack having a pair lying around in fanfic and it's mentioned he found them in the ruins of Torchwood 1. I think that's likely the case.

WTF Moments:

When they are at the club and Gwen is about to be attacked Suzie spots it on the CCTV and warns her. From later in the episode we know Suzie has no issue with Gwen dying. So I'm wondering why she warned her. Is it because she needs her to remain alive so she can continue to siphon life off of her? I assume that's it but if anyone has other ideas, let me know. Not so much a WTF moment, rather just a curious one.

There's a conversation between Gwen and Jack where she questions his willingness to kill Suzie if the need arises. Why? Why would she think he's incapable of being ruthless when just last episode he killed Mary without a second thought. I know it's a bit more personal this time but previously in the episode it's' established that no one was particularly close to Suzie or knew anything about her. Really not a crushing dilemma for Jack. But turns out Gwen is a bit of a pessimist, she really does always assume the worst in a situation and doubts the capabilities of people. It's really starting to bum me out.

When they are trying to get out of lock-down and have made the assumption te key is also to do with Emily Dickinson. Tosh says "Try the ISBN, each book has a different number". That was quick thinking by Tosh and she's absolutely right. But she is right. And that's a problem here. At least it is with something as vague as a book of poems by Emily Dickinson. There are tons and tons of versions of Emily Dickinson collections and even if it's the complete works there are different editions. And each edition has a different ISBN number. Detective Swanson has someone buy her a book of Emily Dickinson poetry and we see it's not the same edition as the one found in Suzie's things. Showing us that book in the beginning makes this even more unrealistic. That was not the edition we saw in Suzie's stuff and presumably that is the edition she would have used in creating the code. So the ISBN from a different edition would not work to override the lock-down. It just wouldn't.

Random Rants:

The best thing about this episode for me is easily Jack in the sea-foam green shirt and burgundy braces. It's my favorite look of Jack in any series including Doctor Who and including nude moments. Seriously he looks amazing. It's not really a rant so much as a mention and a reason to post the following picture.

And the picture is a good segway into my other rant. I want to talk about the stopwatch scene. The implication of the scene is Jack is upset and Ianto offers to make it better with sexy favors of undisclosed sorts. A lot of people comment that this is awfully forward of Ianto considering this is the first time we've seen Ianto return Jack's affection outside of the odd cheeky comment. They pair have only kissed so far and it was technically a one-sided resuscitation. So how did we jump from mostly one-sided flirting, that just last episode I said I didn't assume would ever go anywhere, to casual offers of sex?

It seem sudden because it is. I love Jack and Ianto and their relationship and I love every moment we get to see of them. However, I am not the only one to criticize that there seem to be very big gaps in their story that happen off screen. It's not that they should spoon feed us every milestone but they shouldn't make such huge leaps and blindside us or have things feel out of order. We're on episode 8 and it seems like they are having sex. This is episode 8 but we don't see a first kiss until the series closer, episodes away. And we don't see a first proper kiss until episode 3 of the next series! And yet we're supposed to keep in the back of our minds they have been intimate before those moments? The main sections people point out as missing is this jump from flirting to sex and the jump from series 2 and Children of Earth. That time lapse takes them from fooling around to seemingly serious relationship forcing issues and causing Jack to be an ass hat.

The question then arises concerning when Jack and Ianto got together or if this really is out of nowhere. If we assume they have been together previously it likely happened between Small Worlds and Greek's Bearing Gifts. It's either that or we accept that Ianto could have been cheating on Lisa. While that's a sometimes good theory for fanfic purposes I just don't buy it. He loved Lisa and jack was just his boss who flirted. The more I think about it and the more I think or Ianto the way I see Ianto I think this has to have been the first time. I don't think they had any sort of physical relationship before then, not even a kiss (Cyberwoman discounted for obvious reasons). I think first of all that people underestimate Ianto and forget that he does have a backbone and does in fact initiate most of he and Jack's relationship. Pay attention as we go forward I wouldn't put it past Ianto to proposition Jack out of the blue.

And then consider that Jack is hurting and Ianto knows that. Ianto wants to comfort him and maybe the only way he can think of to do that is physically. Maybe in a moment of compassion he gives himself to Jack, for the first time and maybe that's it. Maybe their relationship doesn't properly start then. Maybe Ianto  and Jack question what they did and there are lingering concerns and feeling that they don't pursue again immediately. If we accept this scenario, that kiss at the end of the series could have been a surprise in the moment but seemingly comfortable because they had been together once before. And perhaps the series 2 kiss and the date proposition were firsts. Perhaps it was them exploring a relationship for the first time outside of the isolated incident? I've never thought of it that way but I think I kind of like that story better than the working theories out there. Really it's all speculation, we may never know the full story of Jack and Ianto's relationship. What do you think? Watch the scene again and "think about it."

And "if you're interested" there is a great animated video of this scene and more that is sort of adorable. Man I really can't help quoting it, can I?

MVC (Most Valuable Character):

Suzie I suppose would be. She's in the title and she really is the center of the episode. She's particularly sinister in her planning to return to life and seemingly heartless. It's an interesting character who I genuinely dislike. But that's a good thing right? We can't all be Suzie sympathizers like Gwen. Bringing her back was a great twist and really gave us a lot of honest reactions from the surrounding characters. She was good for this episode, but I'm glad she didn't linger any longer.

MVA (Most Valuable Actor):

Tough one. I don't think Suzie had enough impressive moments on her own to give it to Indira. And Gwen who is arguably the other "main character" is not really up for it, Even played sick and unconscious for a good chunk of the episode. So I am going to say it was John on this one. John had a number of big moments. We saw Jack take control in a situation that was sticky to say the least. He did what had to be done and John portrayed the the silent conflict a leader can never show perfectly. And his flirting throughout with Gareth's Ianto was just enjoyable, they play so well off each other. Great performance by John.

Episode Grade:

B.
I went back and forth a lot on my grade here. I decided on B because B is solid but not exceptional. There are exceptional moments but there are too many off-putting moments (see my WTF moments section) to rate it any higher. I think the flaw was mainly in the writing, it was a little too spelled out. I don't think the audience needs that much. I don't know. I'm sticking with B, read the blog again and you'll see why I feel that way.

Tomorrow's Episode: Random Shoes  (Series 1, Episode 9). Remember, I'll be live tweeting my re-watch on the @BarrowmanDay twitter at 12:00am PST (US - West coast) and 8:00am GMT (UK). Hope you all can watch with me and chat.

That's it for today! Hope you enjoyed my run down. What did you all think of this episode? Did you notice anything new? What grade would you give it? xx

<3Dana

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26 days left and we're continuing on my countdown to Miracle Day Torchwood re-watch! I'll be watching an episode a day and blogging bits and thoughts. With any luck this is gonna read like an episode guide and commentary. Let's dive right in!

Episode: Greeks Bearing Gifts (Series 1 Episode 7)

Written By: Toby Whithouse

Original Air Date: 26 November 2006

1 Sentence Sum-Up: Tosh encounters a mysterious woman with a pendant that grants the wearer telepathic abilities.

New Characters:

Mary (Daniela Denby-Ashe): A woman Tosh meets that turns out to be an evil alien. Tosh falls for her and then Jack kills her.

Favorite Quote:

Ianto: [Thinking] "Can't imagine a time when this isn't everything. Pain so constant, like my stomach's full of rats. Feels like this is all I am now. There isn't an inch of me that doesn't hurt." [Out loud] "I’m about to brew some of Jack’s industrial strength coffee. Would you like a cup?"
Tosh: "I’m … fine, thanks Ianto."

Never Noticed:

There's an empty birdcage in Tosh's apartment. I'm curious as to it's implications. Is it just a decoration of did she have a bird that she neglected and either killed or had to give up?  Could it be a very clever metaphor for her life? She's an empty birdcage? Missing the essentials of what gives a birdcage purpose or makes a life worth living? And is it because she spends all of her time at Torchwood? Either that OR I am reading waaaaaaaay too much into an empty birdcage. Probably that, yea.

I swear I am not making this up. There is a giant dragon mural on a wall at the Hub. I don't remember which scene we saw it in, but it's visible behind Tosh. It's so random, but I think I'm ok with it. Torchwood 3 could use a bit of Welsh pride.

Maybe I noticed but I at least don't recall the greatness of Jack's outfit when he's on the phone to the Prime Minister. It's worth noting when he's not in his signature blue but to be in stripes and burgundy braces? Thrilling. I haven't been this excited by a wardrobe change since Ianto in jeans...oh wait that was last episode.

WTF Moments:

In the tent a conversation between Gwen and Owen makes it clear to Tosh they've been intimate and Tosh shoots Gwen a look of shear disdain. I never noticed it but I was happy Tosh did, what the heck Gwen? It's not like she doesn't know Tosh has feelings for Owen, why flaunt their affair? It's a bit mean spirited if you ask me. I'd expect that from Owen but why is Gwen going along with it? What happened to her caring so much about others?

Gwen's thought's about Tosh wearing boots and jeans. First of all Gwen isn't exactly the queen of fashion as demonstrated by the shirt she's wearing that scene. Secondly, Gwen does that ALL THE TIME, so who is she to criticize? Even in her head. Thirdly, I do it all the time and I think it's still happening. Whatever.

When Gwen is mocking Owen for his mistakes concerning the body they found. What? For someone who messes up as often and as thoroughly as Gwen does she sure is quick to judge and taunt. Not cool.

Random Rants ( I tried to break these up as they were lengthy so I numbered them to keep it clear):

1. Tosh comes into the Hub wearing the pendant and hears various thoughts from each member of the team. Of course when she's near Jack, instead of hearing his thought's she hears nothing. The first thing you think is, Jack is different from everyone else so this is just another side effect of the mystery of Jack. he can't stay dead and you can't get into his head. Easy enough to accept. But then later when Mary is holding Tosh hostage Jack projects his thoughts to Tosh. Or I guess that's what he does.

It makes no sense that she would be able to hear him at that point but not earlier so it has to be something Jack is actively doing. In that case it would seem to me that Jack is able to be read but is previously blocking Tosh. I don't think that at that point he suspected Tosh so I doubt he actively protected his thoughts. Which then leads me to the belief that his thought's are always protected without any sort of effort on Jack's part. Someone suggested that Jack has probably, during his time with the Time Agency, had some telepathic training. I guess I buy that. He's trained to have his guard up, but he can choose to let someone in. We never really get an answer and that's the case with many of Jack's quirks. It's not a bad thing, just sometimes irksome. I wish I knew!

2. I went into the re-watch with an open mind. I promised myself I would watch each episode and reacquaint myself with the characters. I said I would see if I love Ianto as much as I thought I did or if it was a result of COE that I remember him more fondly than he deserves. More to come on that rant sometime soon, I'm sure. I also said I would give Gwen a chance to convince me to love her. I would put aside my objections to her flirting with Jack and my preference for Jack and Ianto. I would let myself appreciate her as a character outside of that bias. It's been 7 episodes now.

In 7 episodes I have hardly thought about Jack and Ianto because at this point Jack and Ianto are nothing more than a flirtation and as a viewer I am not really anticipating it going anywhere. And while I am irked by the sexual tension Gwack scenes, I have put them aside and really given Gwen a chance to win me over, it would be great to love her in time for Torchwood: Miracle Day. But all those reasons I say I have issues with the character, my stock answers about her messing up so frequently and being of questionable morals (re: cheating) and letting her own feelings get in the way of what is best or right, all those reasons really are the reasons! I am more certain now than I was before. They are not insignificant things I am honing in on as a bitter Ianto fan. They are full character flaws that put me off to her.

I know I say it each time but I love Eve. I think Eve is lovely and a great actress, but Gwen, especially series 1 Gwen bothers me a lot. I am sorry Gwen fans I do try my best not to bad mouth her or Gwen-bash but I need to get this off my chest. All of my WTF moments from this episode, which really didn't have much to do with Gwen, were about Gwen. She managed to attract my negative attention when I should be focusing on the brilliance of Tosh. I know the character grows in future episodes, so I am still keeping an open mind. C'mon Gwen, win me over! I am begging you!

MVC (Most Valuable Character)/MVA (Most Valuable Actor):

Usually this is two different sections. Even if the MVC and MVA goes to an actor and their corresponding character it merits two different conversations about the greatness of each. Tonight I am putting the two together because I am having a hard time choosing and I think I'll just explain why once. The obvious choice for these section in this episode you'd think is Tosh and Naoko. And I'm not denying that both character and actress were brilliant in this. And it is a Tosh-centric episode but, I feel like there's a lot more to it. So after much consideration I am going to make it a tie. The MVCs are Tosh/Jack and the MVAs are Naoko/John.

I think when you haven't seen it recently it's easy to forget how vital a part Jack had in this episode. Throughout he's included in Tosh's journey. He tells her about Greek mythology, he confronts her about her heroics and he figures out everything she won't tell.  He saves the day as he often does but he does it in a much more subtle way. Stealth Jack is brilliant and on more than one occasion he provided comic relief for a rather heavy episode for Tosh.

But of course there is also Tosh and Naoko's wonderful job of portraying her. I love Tosh and really this episode is the first time we get a lot of Tosh. We get a glimpse of her feelings during Countrycide but this episode gives us so much more and we get to see sides of her we didn't know she had. We find out how deeply she can love and how capable she is of kicking ass. She has a crisis of faith and life and she experiences loss. Naoko really had to come to work every day and put Tosh's heart out there for all to see. Not an easy task, she's great at pulling on our heart strings. As Cyberwoman solidified our love for Ianto I think this episode made us certain Tosh had our hearts and sympathies. This was one of many heartbreaks to come for Tosh and really the first in depth look at a wonderful and tragic character. Ok maybe Tosh/Naoko win by a small margin. But really great job by all.

Episode Grade:

B+
There is a lot of things to love about this episode. Everything about Tosh for instance. What a lovely character and what a great introduction to someone we know very little about at this point. There are a lot of great moments, some wonderful on-screen chemistry between Jack and Tosh and Tosh and Mary. There are funny moments and ones that make us want to cry. Really a well put together episode. The reason it got a B+ instead of an A is simple. With this re-watch and with looking back on all the series it's just not one of my favorite episodes. To me and A is perfection and a perfect episode stands out as one of my favorites. This never has. It's not anything particular I can pick out making it just short but as a whole it doesn't quite match up with episodes like Cyberwoman and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. Not a bad showing though, great episode.

Tomorrow's Episode: They Keep Killing Suzie  (Series 1, Episode 8). Remember, I'll be live tweeting my re-watch on the @BarrowmanDay twitter at 12:00am PST (US - West coast) and 8:00am GMT (UK). Hope you all can watch with me and chat.

That's it for today! Hope you enjoyed my run down. What did you all think of this episode? Did you notice anything new? What grade would you give it? xx

<3Dana

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27 days left and we're continuing on my countdown to Miracle Day Torchwood re-watch! I'll be watching an episode a day and blogging bits and thoughts. With any luck this is gonna read like an episode guide and commentary. Let's dive right in!

Episode: Countrycide (Series 1 Episode 6)

Written By: Chris Chibnall ( I love Chris Chibnall. I know I've said it before but he is pure genius. I just found out he has a TWITTER, follow him.)

Original Air Date: 19 November 2006

1 Sentence Sum-Up: The team investigates a series of disappearances in the Welsh countryside.

New Characters:

Evan Sherman (Owen Teale): The head cannibal. He eats people...because it makes him happy.

Helen Sherman (Maxine Evans): Mrs. head cannibal. She likes to play with her food.

Kieran (Calum Callaghan): A boy who is the lone survivor in the village of cannibals.

Huw (Rhys op Trefor): Police, also nephew of Evan and Helen. Cannibal as well.

Favorite Quote:

Owen: "I hate the countryside. It’s dirty, it’s unhygienic and what is that smell?"
Gwen: "That would be grass."
Owen: "It’s disgusting."

Never Noticed:

Ianto in jeans. Oh, wait, yes I have. I just wanted to mention it...and post a picture. Ianto in jeans is frankly thrilling. Like we're breaking a rule and we like it. Not to mention Ianto on a mission with the team. This whole episode is pushing Ianto's limits. Love it.

How easily scared Gwen is. And very pessimistic. Is she going to assume the worst outcome every episode? She needs to get more sure of the teams abilities and suck it up. I get she's supposed to be the person we relate to and a normal person seeing the things Torchwood see's would be horrified, but...I think they overdo it a bit. She needs to start getting used to it.

When questioned about what is terrorizing the town Kieran is very vague and doesn't give them much. He tells them "IT'S not human" not "they're my human". It's purposely misleading. Clever.

There's a point when Jack, Gwen, Owen and Kieran are fighting off the attacks from a pub. It's very "Shaun of The Dead" I wonder if it was an intentional nod to the film.

Hearts in a jar? Behind the bar, we see something, hearts, some bodily organs in jars. Gross. Nice touch.

When Jack is "torturing" the attacker he starts off with a slap. Best kind of torture. Or a good night, depending on the context.

When Ianto was struggling in the meat hanging room Evan knee's him in the man parts! Poor Ianto, he really goes through a lot this episode.

At the end when Jack saves the day, Ianto moves away from the cannibal and Gwen grabs and hugs him. It's quick and very sweet.

When Gwen interrogates Evan before his creepy explanation of what they do a single tear runs down his face. Somehow it makes the scene more disturbing. The truly scary fact of this episode is that the threat turns out to be human. And just then, that human emotion, reminds us of that fact.

WTF Moments:

At the beginning, the woman sees what she thinks is a body in the road and stops to check it out. I get it, she doesn't want to leave it in the road if she can help. Unfortunately, I am a wuss, I would have kept driving and then made a call to 911. I was yelling at the screen! Don't do it!! But that's just how horror stories go.

When they are investigating the village at first, Jack splits up the team, sending Tosh and Ianto on their own.Was it really a good idea to send the two remembers with the least field experience off on their own? He was asking for them to be kidnapped.

Once they've separated from the others Tosh and Ianto hear a suspicious noise. Tosh "What is that?" Ianto: "A fox of something". Ha! What? Ianto is smarter than that. And, are there a lot of foxes in the Welsh countryside? It was such a weird response. Maybe Ianto really had no clue but was trying to reassure Tosh. Let's go with that.

When Gwen get's shot Owen pulls out his med kit. Where did that come from? Wasn't everything in the SUV?

Gwen sleeping with Owen. Not WTF like I don't believe it, but WTF. I was so  disappointed in Gwen. I knew she had a wandering eye and I knew she's free with kissed but this was different. She full on cheated on Rhys and he's wonderful, I was so sad.

Random Rants:

Totally agree with Owen. Countryside is rubbish. Nature is gross. I do not want to celebrate my uniqueness.

The scene where the team is talking about who the last person they kissed was. There are a lot of theories about Ianto's answer. Of course he says it was Lisa. Then Jack gives him a "oh no it wasn't" look and Ianto seems to shoot him back a "go with it" look. The idea is that when Jack revived Ianto in Cyberwoman he kissed him. The question after this scene is why Ianto said what he did. Is it a) He doesn't remember it b) he doesn't consider it a kiss or c)he doesn't want anyone to know, for a myriad of reasons. I honestly don't know what I think. The look suggests he knows but why he isn't saying I'm not sure. Great scene. Very intense, well done.

MVC (Most Valuable Character):

Ianto. Ianto is MVC because let's be honest this is a Ianto heavy episode. Not just that but it really tests Ianto and he steps up to the challenge. He pushes through his own fears and comes through for the team more than once, And he looks good doing it. For his first time out he get's an A+.

MVA (Most Valuable Actor):

Gareth of course. I realize I am especially fond of Gareth and I want to give it to him most episodes but no one can deny he deserves it this time around. He finds a way to portray a vulnerability in Ianto while on the surface Ianto is trying to keep it together. He has to have emotional outburst while portraying a character that prefers to remain guarded. He shows the bravery in a man that is out of his league and steps up to the demands of the situation. It's a mish-mosh of emotions and he balances it all expertly. Also, he wears the hell out of those jeans.

Episode Grade:

A+
This episode is a brilliant complex horror movie that can very well stand on it's own. You know how, when you want to get a friend into Doctor Who in one episode you show them Blink? When I want to get friends into Torchwood I have them watch this episode. It's self-contained enough that you don't need much background and it really is a full feature in 50 minutes. The writing is witty and there is a great blend of high tension scenes and funny moments. Brilliant all around.

Tomorrow's Episode: Greeks Bearing Gifts  (Series 1, Episode 7). Remember, I'll be live tweeting my re-watch on the @BarrowmanDay twitter at 12:00am PST (US - West coast) and 8:00am GMT (UK). Hope you all can watch with me and chat.

That's it for today! Hope you enjoyed my run down. What did you all think of this episode? Did you notice anything new? What grade would you give it? xx

<3Dana

Countdown
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28 days left and we're continuing on my countdown to Miracle Day Torchwood re-watch! I'll be watching an episode a day and blogging bits and thoughts. With any luck this is gonna read like an episode guide and commentary. Let's dive right in!

Episode: Small Worlds (Series 1 Episode 5)

Written By: Peter J. Hammond

Original Air Date: 12 November 2006

1 Sentence Sum-Up: Torchwood takes on "fairies" and Jack is forced to make a horrible compromise.

New Characters:

Jasmine Pierce (Lara Phillipart): A little girl designated as the next Chosen One. The "fairies", for lack of a better word, want to take her to become one of them. She wants to go with them. Creepy kid.

Lynn Pierce (Adrienne O'Sullivan): Jasmine's Mum. She's noticed her daughter is disturbed but not done much about it. She's mildly neglecting of her child and blinded by her love for her boyfriend who is an ass-hat. He doesn't even get a character description of his own. Or his name. He's a bad man who treats Jasmine like garbage.

Estelle (Eve Pearce): A woman from Jack's past. She believes Jack to be the son of the man she loved, we know he's the same man. Jack still loves her and looses her.


Favorite Quote: 

Jack: "You shouldn't be here."
Ianto: "Neither should you."

Never Noticed:

When chatting in the board room Owen is wearing a "bro-shirt" with odd calligraphy and the words "Fallen Angels" on it. Very odd and not particularly in line with what I typically consider to be Owen's style.

When we see the world through the eyes of the "Fairies" which happens several times the world is often filtered to show that we are seeing it from their eyes. But the filters change. At one point the fairies see in yellow tint, at another the world is green and another time entirely the world looks completely normal. I'm not sure what the point of the inconsistency there was; I must assume it was intentional.

The road leading to the old forest, or where the old forest once was, is called "Old Forest Road". How fitting.

When the "fairies" attack the party Jack and Gwen end up on the floor and Gwen is spooning Jack. I don't know if this is the best time for Gwen to be putting the moves on Jack. And Jack isn't having it; he gets right up and walks away.


WTF Moments:

Gwen is such a brat. When Jack takes her to Estelle's talk and they sit through exactly 2 minutes of talk about fairies, Gwen is fed up and annoyed. First of all why is she being so ridiculous? So what if she doesn't believe in fairies – she has to be disrespectful of those who do? And she's stubborn about her doubts through the episode in a really childish way.

Why do people keep doubting Jack? Why does his team have such little trust? And why is Gwen so disbelieving of everything? No one takes Jack seriously and when Jack has to make the only decision he could, they all judge him – condemn him – but none could supply a better course of action. Excuse my language, but that's outright fuckery. How about a little loyalty and faith in your leader, guys!

And Estelle. First of all, she's guilty of doubting Jack and then once she finally realizes he was right she disobeys the one thing he asked of her, to stay put. And why? To go find her cat!  Ridiculous. And then she is drowned in her garden. Guys, the "fairies" can control the elements, not people. If she just CLOSED HER MOUTH she would have not drowned. The place she was in wouldn't have flooded before Jack got to her and, sure, the "Fairies" could have tried a different method, but where would be the fun in that? I don't want to say she deserved to die, but...

Random Rants:

*SPOILER* You might not want to read this if you haven't seen Children of Earth.

Was anyone else thinking about Children of Earth and tragic foreshadowing? Jack being forced to give up a child to save the world? There was the incident in his past, as well as having to consider giving up more in COE. Not to mention his ultimate sacrifice of Stephen. It's one child for all of the world. It seems a no-brainer but at the same time it seems unforgivable. I wonder if Ianto, who was so adamant about them not getting even one child would say about Jack destroying the 456 with that method. Way to betray the man you love the second after he died. I am not saying whether or not I agree with his decision, my only point is I'm not sure Ianto would. Cue Teaboy rolling in his grave.

MVC (Most Valuable Character):

I'm going to say Jasmine. Jasmine really is the focus of this episode and ties so much of it together. She's incredibly creepy and she's the Chosen One, surely that makes her a shoe-in for MVC.

MVA (Most Valuable Actor):

John Barrowman. I know, I know. I am biased, I love him. But really, am I wrong? He went through a hell of a lot of emotions in this. We saw nostalgic Jack with Estelle and also Jack in love. We saw terrified Jack when faced with a threat he couldn't stop. We saw outraged Jack at the "fairies" wanting to take Jasmine. And we saw heartbroken Jack when he lost Estelle. Brilliant man crying from John. We saw brooding alcohol drinking Jack and contemplative in his discussion with Tosh. We saw tender Jack with Ianto, we saw tortured Jack with his past and we even caught a glimpse of cheeky Jack in the boardroom talking about magic mushrooms. Really there was A LOT to act and John Barrowman met the challenge. Bravo.

Episode Grade:

B
This episode was solid. It was well written, well acted and so forth but it doesn't stick out to me as a favorite. Mostly the impact it made was terrifying me. "Fairies" will never be the same and the wind is never just the wind. B it is.

Tomorrow's Episode: Countrycide  (Series 1, Episode 6). Remember, I'll be live tweeting my re-watch on the @BarrowmanDay twitter at 12:00am PST (US - West coast) and 8:00am GMT (UK). Hope you all can watch with me and chat.

That's it for today! Hope you enjoyed my run down. What did you all think of this episode? Did you notice anything new? What grade would you give it? xx

<3Dana

Countdown
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29 days left and we're continuing on my countdown to Miracle Day Torchwood re-watch! I'll be watching an episode a day and blogging bits and thoughts. With any luck this is gonna read like an episode guide and commentary. Let's dive right in!

Episode: Cyberwoman (Series 1 Episode 4)

Written By: Chris Chibnall (who by the way has written 8 episodes of Torchwood, 4 of which are amongst my very favorite. He's awesome.)

Original Air Date: 5 November 2006

1 Sentence Sum-Up: The team discovers Ianto is hiding his cyber-converted girlfriend in the Hub.

New Characters:

Dr. Tanizaki (Togo Igawa): An expert in cybernetics that Ianto contacts to help him reverse his Cyber-girlfriend's cyber-condition.

Lisa Hallett (Caroline Chikezie): Ianto's girlfriend and current member of the Cyber-race. She worked with Ianto at Torchwood One and was half-converted during the battle of Canary Wharf.

Favorite Quote: 

Ianto: "I'm ... not giving up on her. I love her. Can you understand that, Jack? Haven't you ever loved anyone?"
Jack: "You need to figure out whose side you're on here. Because if you don't know ... you're not going to make it out of this alive."

Never Noticed:

The first time we see Lisa you see a close up of her hands. She's wearing silver metallic nail polish. I almost put this in the WTF moments but I haven't ever noticed it and really if you think about it, it makes perfect sense. While it's unlikely she happened to be wearing perfectly matched silver varnish the day she was converted, it's just like Ianto to paint her nails to be color coordinated. And I think it's just the right touch without clashing. I can so picture that scene, Lisa passed out on pain medicine, Ianto sitting there talking to her and painting her nails. Quick, someone write that fic. Please.

When Jack realizes someone is inside the Hub and Tosh is trying to defend the security system Jack says, "Looks like our system needs to be upgraded." That line went completely unnoticed by me. Upgraded, that's genius and horrible right before he finds out who the intruder is.

In the scene where Jack is ordering Ianto to execute Lisa you can see the clock in the Tourist Information Office is set to 9:24. Useful for estimating Lisa's time of death. If you needed to...

WTF Moments:

When Lisa is able to breathe on her own, Ianto is alerted to the team returning and needs to get her hidden before they find AND KILL HER. Stubborn woman that she is doesn't want to be helped, she wasn't to walk herself. I mean they made it in time, but priorities! If I was Ianto I would've put my foot down on this point. I guess you pick your battles.

Gwen! What are you doing? Why, when you see the Cyberwoman, who both Owen and Jack have said is as evil as evil gets, both of whom are terrified of it WHY do you try to reason with it? And why, when she is slowly inching toward you and showing no signs of comprehension or compassion do you not try to take her down? Or move back a bit? Or incapacitate her in any way? You have a gun pointed at her head why are you just standing there waiting to be attacked? I swear Gwen had it coming. I almost think she should have been converted. I think maybe Gwen is an alcoholic, or a drug addict. In four episodes she's completely messed something up because of her slow reaction time. W.T.F. You guys, I am trying. I am watching again, I am keeping an open mind but all the ridiculous screw ups Gwen has been a part of are reminding me why she has such a capacity to annoy me. Again, I love Eve, brilliant actress, but sometimes that Gwen. Grrrr.

When Lisa is on the loose Jack says, "Find anything that resembles a weapon" . And I'm trying to figure out, what happened to their weapons they already had? Someone pointed out that the Hub was on lockdown and so they couldn't get to the various weapons but what about the ones they were carrying? They had them in an earlier scene...this seems a bit off. I don't know, someone tell me if I'm wrong.

Ianto totally cursed. It's not a bad thing, it's actually very good and he does it so sparingly that it really has an impact when he does. But it was a shock value moment.

Random Rants:

Oh my God Ianto. Ianto, Ianto, Ianto. When I watched this episode the first time it completely caught me off guard! I did not see that coming. Until this episode, Ianto was that gorgeous Welshman with great one liners and not much more. I really was curious as to weather he would ever have a bigger part and I was so glad when he did. I will say that when I saw the title of this episode the first time around I was put off. I do not care for the Cybermen as villains and so I was prepared for the cheesiness that accompanies their stories in Doctor Who as well as their grating metallic voices. To my delight, Lisa was just converted enough to be interesting. She wasn't completely robotic voiced and she did have the appearance of emotions. it was very well handled and the way she tortured Ianto was agony. This whole episode is the epitome of Torturewood, testing the mettle of the characters. Metal woman, testing the mettle of a man, oh that's funny. Ianto's character instantly went from curious to deeply layered and interesting.

MVC (Most Valuable Character):

Without a doubt it's Ianto. It's a Ianto-centric episode and we find out for sure that Ianto is a wonderful character we love. We didn't stand a chance, he's gorgeous and tortured, heartbroken and strong enough to push on and endlessly endearing. The whole episode and from then on you just want to give him a hug! He's a hopeless romantic and he cannot help but loving the people in his life, even if it's to his detriment as it often is. He's loyal and he always cares for others, putting everyone else before himself even when it hurts him greatly to do so. A full-fledged deontologist, bless him. I love Ianto, you love Ianto and I think this is the episode most of us realized that fact.

MVA (Most Valuable Actor):

For the first time in this re-watch I'm awarding the character and the actor to the same person. Gareth really rises to the challenging script and content in this episode. It's a very physical portrayal with very high emotional demands. And what's most impressive is his ability to completely take on the devastating history of the character without having acted any of it out (with exception of the Canary Wharf flashback). He made us believe, he made us care and he added clever touches throughout. I especially liked how every time he rejoins the team he straightens his tie and you see him slip back into Butler mode. It's a blink-and-you-miss-it moment but it's the little things that make the character so fully developed. Ianto wouldn't be Ianto without Gareth portraying him. And he does it so well. That being said John really held his own in this episode, they had a lot of great moments playing off each other and they developed an instant on-screen chemistry which is part of why so many fans, myself included, got invested in Jack and Ianto's relationship. Just stunning work all round.

Episode Grade:

A+
I can't imagine a way to make this episode better. It's brilliant. Perfect. The writing, the acting, the authentic feel of the situations and the reactions to them. A phenomenal job by all the actors and incredible story. What they managed to accomplish in one episode is truly outrageous and it's easily one of my favorite episodes. Not that I could ever choose a true favorite.

Tomorrow's Episode: Small Worlds (Series 1, Episode 5). Remember I'll be live tweeting my re-watch on the @BarrowmanDay twitter at 12:00am PST (US - West coast) and 8:00am GMT (UK). Hope you all can watch with me and chat.

That's it for today! Hope you enjoyed my run down. What did you all think of this episode? Did you notice anything new? What grade would you give it? xx

<3Dana

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30 days left, ONLY 1 MONTH, and we're continuing on my countdown to Miracle Day Torchwood re-watch! I'll be watching an episode a day and blogging bits and thoughts. With any luck this is gonna read like an episode guide and commentary. Let's dive right in!

Episode: Ghost Machine (Series 1 Episode 3)

Written By: Helen Raynor

Original Air Date: 29 October 2006

1 Sentence Sum-Up: Torchwood investigate an alien devise that can tap into the echos of emotions.

New Characters:

Sean "Bernie" Harris (Ben McKay): Bernie is an awkward kid from Splott who has a habit of taking things, a collection of which turn out to be alien (or rift related).

Ed Morgan (Gareth Thomas): He's a bad man. Raped and killed a girl when he was younger, in his older years he's turned paranoid and generally loopy. Still a bad man.

Favorite Quote: 

Jack: "The problem with seeing the future is you can't just sit and look at it. You got to try and change things. Make it happen differently. "

Never Noticed:

When Gwen goes to question Tom Flanagan about what she saw in the train station his daughter tells them they were home at the time, watching the Strictly Come Dancing finals. Couldn't help but think of John's appearances of SCD, love it.

Ianto has a lapel pin I never noticed! And he changes suits and transfers the pin, I wish I could make it out or knew the significance. This was the best shot I could get. Anyone know? (It's also in the picture on my Day One blog as well)

Gwen's clothes are covered in bright prints all episode. And at one point she is wearing a sparkle belt buckle. I bet it's John's in real life.

Behind Jack's desk is a sign that says "COUGHS AND SNEEZES SPREAD DISEASES". From what I read about it the phrase appeared on British posters during World War II and was issued by the Ministry of Health. That's so Jack.

WTF Moments:

When Owen is chasing Bernie on foot they run through a stretch of something it looked like a bridge. It's covered in random rainbow spray paints. I wonder what that location is, or if I hallucinated it.

I noticed something when Gwen and Bernie were in his apartment, but I think it was through the episode. Bernie is wearing the one ring on his neck. OK, probably not actually the one ring, but it was a plain band on a chain, very Frodo. I'm questioning the wardrobe choice.

When Ed moved away from Jack's hold and into the knife in Gwen's hand, he sort of waddled and it wasn't a super short distance. I think Jack could've held onto him a little tighter, that seemed a bit off.

On the same note, WTF Gwen? She got the knife away from Owen, she's happy no one is dead so she holds it point side out? And she doesn't have the time to point it down? Watch the scene again he's not going that fast and there is a little space between them. It's a conspiracy! Torchwood wanted him dead!

Random Rants:

On the matter of button pushing. With exception of Gwen, who really should know better, everyone is a trained Torchwood agent. I don't buy the idea that the machine compelled them to push the button because they didn't always feel or give into that compulsion. Why did Gwen keep pushing the damned thing?? At least when Owen did it, it was to test it, because Jack thought they should and they were watching him. Gwen get's a F- for abusing alien technology. AND THEN, when they get the machine back to the Hub and Jack is inspecting it, Jack who can actually show a bit of self restraint, they all jump to assume he's going to repeat that daft move! Jack turns to them and say "As If!". This is just the sort of undeserved distrust that calls for Jack turning into a valley girl. As if indeed. No wonder Jack doesn't trust his team with his secret, they don't trust him. I mean we don't know what they've been through before the series, but Jack hasn't given them a reason to think he's that easily tempted, has he? Secretive? Yes. Dumb? No, not Jack.

MVC (Most Valuable Character):

Owen get's MVC for this episode. Not because he took the initiative to track down Ed Morgan or because of the juvenile way he let his emotions get the best of him. He get's it for the best use of a phone book. Sometimes the obvious answer is the right one. Way to be obvious Owen.

MVA (Most Valuable Actor):

I'll give it to Eve Myles this episode. She did a great job of playing stupid mistakes, over emotional Gwen. That's just the character isn't it? Especially in the early episodes. She makes scenes that could easily be over the top seem like genuine emotion. I believe her and I think her skill as an actress is why so many people feel so strongly towards Gwen.

Episode Grade:

B
It was a solid episode, some great moments as always and the characters developed a bit more. It's just not a standout episode for me. So B.

Tomorrow's Episode: Cyberwoman (Series 1, Episode 4). Remember I'll be live tweeting my re-watch on the @BarrowmanDay twitter at 12:00am PST (US - West coast) and 8:00am GMT (UK). Hope you all can watch with me and chat.

That's it for today! Hope you enjoyed my run down. What did you all think of this episode? Did you notice anything new? What grade would you give it? xx

<3Dana

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