Tuning In

T returns in “Revolution” and Marshall uses this as an opportunity to throw the most realistic teenage party ever featured on television. Then, in “Transition”, we spend almost the entire episode with Tara, who is desperately trying not to transition while her parents are visiting. We’ve all been there.

iTunes

In “Work”, Tara gets a commission, Kate starts her job, and Marshall discovers boys. In “Inspiration”, Tara loses her commission, Kate loses some respect, and Max loses his EpiPen.

iTunes

Tuning In is moving on from science fiction and into family drama/comedy (don’t call them dramedies) by diving into the somewhat forgotten but well worth watching United States of Tara (2009-11.) In “Pilot”, the first episode, we meet several characters, only some of whom have their own bodies. Then, in “Aftermath”, Tara deals with the consequences of going off her DID medication. Also! Marshall is like, the best gay teen ever on television.

iTunes

As wrap-up movies to unceremoniously canceled television series go, Serenity succeeds pretty well at both resolution and self-contained story. It’s not perfect, and makes some questionable choices, but then again, who hasn’t? Plus! We reveal what series we’re doing next on Tuning In.

iTunes

Sadly, we’ve reached the last episode of Firefly, and sadly, it’s quite terrible. “Objects in Space” is little more than excuse for Joss Whedon to share his thoughts on existentialism with us, and well, that’s about as edifying as it sounds.

iTunes

We’re nearing the end of Firefly, which means it’s time for something dramatic to happen, and boy does it in “Heart of Gold”. Also there’s a gunfight, but that’s old hat by now.

iTunes

After a string of great episodes, Firefly gives us “The Message”, which apparently is: don’t let Joss Whedon write episodes of the show.

iTunes

Firefly is definitely a show that likes to bring characters back: this week, in “Trash”, it’s the return of Saffron, and this time, she’s serious. Or is she?

iTunes

Marital trouble spills over into actual trouble in “War Stories”, as Mal and Wash are captured by an old adversary. Meanwhile, Inara shocks everyone by taking a female client. Oh, 2002. Were we ever that naive?

iTunes

In “Ariel”, Mal decides that enough is enough after River stabs Jayne and demands that Simon do something about her. So the good doctor comes up with crime. About time he pulled his weight, don’t you think?

iTunes