True Blood Ep 12 Season Finale Blog/Review

“You may have your faults Andy, but at least you got pants on.”  You know it’s funny because that’s exactly what my boss said to me at my last performance review. This takes the prize as my favorite line of the season finale. Though there were some other choice options as well:  Jason’s; “If a tree falls in the woods, it’s still a tree ain’t it.”,” Not with kid glock on my side” and “its times like these that this town needs a good man Andy, and that man is us” and finally Lafayette’s “I don’t think it’s healthy for a Mo-Fo to know everything they done, it’s like knowing what’s in the sausage – just eat it – hell enjoy it.” 

Overall this was an episode of wrap up and set up. It seemed to climax early on with the death of Maryann – finally! And then settle in to plot foundations for the coming season.  I think I would have felt a deeper sense of satisfaction from Maryann’s well deserved impaling had I not already been so removed from investment in that story. For me it simply repeated itself too much and dragged on too long for me to engage fully. Though –Michelle Forbes performance was fantastic; I found her final, “Was there never any God?” just sort of pathetic – but perhaps that was the intent. It did feel satisfying to see Sam squeeze that heart to pieces. Also priceless: Lafayette in the bridesmaid dress. 

A few twiggly danglers on the Maryann storyline: Why did they kill Ms. Jeannette (a potential “vessel”) without the benefit of the ceremony to call in the God? Also, why did they put her body in Andy Bellefleur’s car? Was it just as a what – warning? Intimidation aimed at Sam? There doesn’t seem to be a whole lot of logic in that tactic. It seems that this would simply drive him away, but what do I know about how a Meanad thinks. As to that – what makes Sam so special? He certainly isn’t a sixteen year old virgin any longer. Why would Daphne not have done as a sacrifice? If they were going to sacrifice Sam in such an elaborate way – why is he the ONLY one that Eggs did not cut the heart out of? That seems to make little to no sense – other than the show could not reasonably have his heart cut out and have him survive it. If I were Maryann, looking for the perfect supernatural sacrifice to call in my God, and had tried shifters and various beings in the past all to no avail. You know who I would try on this go round? A supernatural being unlike any other I had ever encountered. One who is clearly “special” and “unique” – I would try Sookie. If we had been given a better reason for the single minded pursuit of Sam – then perhaps I could have bought it. However, all I really saw was that he was a shifter, like many others. Finally, the most genetically linked and similar people are siblings. If Sookie is biologically unaffected by Maryann, due to some supernatural element in her makeup, then so should be Jason. However,  I did enjoy the post Maryann debriefing at Merllotts by the town pundits – “aliens and liberal media” indeed.

Now to the season three setup’s! Ah, tragic timing for our romantic leads. First Jessica and Hoyt. Just as he is finally awakened to how his devouring mother has crippled his life and manhood, just as he is willing to be set free – she awakens to her darker impulses. When Jessica first came on the scene I had an idea for a storyline where teenage girls started to go missing. A massive investigation ensued, a human/vampire investigative team arrives to shake the town of Bon Temps to it’s core, Eric and Bill are pushed  to their limits, all are full of suspicion and doubt as each of our central relationships are tested. Until…finally, it is revealed that Jessica has been trying to make a friend for herself and simply does not have the control to create a Vampire without killing the intended human. This truck driver storyline feels like a nice approximation to keep my interest in the coming season.

It looks like the Andy and Jason show will continue as they now share the burden of the secret of the death of Eggs. Sam is set up to search for his birth parents – if the show is keeping with the tradition of tying storylines together – then I suspect that will his parentage will have something to do with Debbie Pelt and Alicde both of  whome Alan Ball has said will appear in the coming season. Though the show does seem to be straying further and further from the plotlines and characterizations in the books. The queen remained some sort of Great Gatsby/Mae West hybrid with a dash of modern lingo – “that blows” – though with a bit of a bite this week. Eric seemed positively droopy in her presence. I’ve accepted that she will not be the queen that I had imagined, and now simply hope that she can become a character I love to hate. I am intrigued by her involvement in V distribution. Her reasons are bound to be complex and full of consequence.

On to the question of the coming season: Who took Bill!?! Nabbed just as his beloved was to acquiesce to his hearts desire. Well, if the books are being followed even a small amount – then I know who took him. Though the reasons will of course be dramatically different here. However, I remain uncertain. This show makes it a point to surprise us and again is diverging more and more from the original source material. I say it’s anyone’s game at this point; the writers may be making adjustments in the coming seasons plot as we speak. There is only one culprit that could really turn me off – Eric, in some attempt to remove Bill from Sookie’s life. I hope the show veers very far away from anything close to what would be such a shallow course for their characters and story. I hope in the coming season to see a return to more of the Bill of season one, a continued dynamic exploration of the Eric character – taking full advantage of these two phenomenally talented and sexy actors. A Sookie full of grit and humor and down home flair, a Tara free of Maryann and back to her old self with the benefit of wisdom and age, far more Lafayette, and the continuation of Jason, Jessica’s and Hoyt’s character and story development. I hope for more focus on character and less on plotlines such as the Maryann storyline – and much, much more hot Vampire sex!

Finally, I just want to thank HBO, Alan Ball, the cast, creators and crew of True Blood for bringing us a season of fun, engaging, and quality entertainment. And thank all of you for watching my weekly blog/review. Stay tuned because we will be bringing you more True Blood videos to help bridge the gap to season three as well as blogs and reviews of other great television series. Please be sure to subscribe to the ThinkHero YouTube account and follow us on twitter @ThinkHero and @JrothC (that’s me). And for all the latest True Blood news go to our friends at the vault at true blood-online.com and follow them on twitter @The_Vault. Thanks guys! It’s been great!

- Roth

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18 Responses to “True Blood “Beyond Here Lies Nothing” Blog Review Season 2 Finale (VIDEO)”

  1. Sochi80 Says:
    September 16th, 2009 at 2:36 PM

    The finale for me was…eh…half and half. You raised some interesting issues with the "danglers" in the Mary Anne story. For me, why did Andy/Jason not succumb to the zombie mob in earlier encounters in the season? I thought maybe keeping room open for their possible two-naturedness?? The Mary Anne kill was great, but the whole marriage/feast was way drawn out- they could have wrapped it up in the second to last episode. That way, we could have had some real character development and thickening plot lines. The finale felt hurried- wrap up the "God Who Comes", people back to normal the next day, Sam seeks out past, a marriage proposal, and an abduction…and that was within the last half hour! There were some great parts…as always, Lafayette and Eric were highlights, along with baby vampire Jessica/trucker "suckduction" scene. Loved how Jessica handled Bill all innocent and sweet! The Hoyt/Jessica story will be great to see play out. Season 2 is in the can! Do you think ABall and crew will really make us wait til next summer for Season 3? What do you think of the casting for the King of Mississippi, who is supposed to be a series regular? I am putting my money on the new Jason Schwartzman/ Johnathan Ames show to hold me over, but I digress. Another great review Roth.

  2. Elizabeth Says:
    September 16th, 2009 at 3:11 PM

    Roth, Thanks so much for all your reviews. As a complete True Blood addict, I have found your comments really entertaining as well as insightful. Also, it is good to know I’m not the only one to be frustrated with some of the choices Allan Ball has made. I have far too much to say about this season and this finale in particular to fit within your comment limits. So instead, I’m just going to say regardless of the flaws I love True Blood, the season overall, and I look forward to season 3. I also look forward to more reviews from you but most of all, when are we going to see some new original sketches and parodies? Of anything! Keep up the good work. BTW: how can we support the ThinkHero site other than watching the videos?
    Elizabeth

  3. Landfill Says:
    September 16th, 2009 at 5:48 PM

    Glad Maryann storyline is done. I enjoyed the mystery behind it at the beginning of last season but at the end, I was constantly checking my watch and looking at my calendar waiting for the end to near.

    I think the the reason why she didn't shift to Sookie right away was because she still had her heart set on Sam, who she thought was the vessel the entire time. The reason why I think they didn't ceremonially kill Jeannette or Daphne is because maybe she needed to feed Tara and Eggs the heart to completely bring them over. Either that or she became accustomed to killing and eating hearts on her long voyage to track down her vessel, Sam.

    I assume Eric and the Queen are possibly behind Bill's taking. I hope that Sookie might think that he's upset and ran out on her because she didn't answer his question right away. I'm really hoping Jason doesn't go into a weird state where he regrets what he did but feels justified for saving Andy. I think the show should go with him struggling to keep his secret from Tara and the entire town next season.

    I agree with most that the climax of this last episode was unveiled too quickly. I guess in a way I could be happy since I was wanting that storyline to end quick. I thought the other part of the episode was ok since that's what True Blood is known for, setting up the next episode/season.

  4. DeeN Says:
    September 16th, 2009 at 7:02 PM

    Another great review. Did you notice, The queens interaction with Bill and Eric were quite different and their attitude towards her also. I liked the way they ended Maryann but left some questions about how Sam imprinted on the white bull. Since Sam had Bill's blood, does that mean next season he will have sexual dream about him? Three things that bothered me this episode, 1st how quickly Jason and Andy were turned, they were immune the whole season. 2nd Bills proposal, it was just so typical of TV shows, I don't know why they think we need our lead female engaged or married, and 3rd Jason killing Eggs, was he trying to suicide by cop and got suicide by Jason instead?
    What I thought was interesting, Sookie's reaction to the proposal, showing her inner conflict about who she is, what she is and questioning what she wants, that surprised me, Jessica back to being a young vampire with all the raging transformation issues and I liked that Sam going to find his family, I'm wondering if they will somehow tie Sam in with Debbie Pelt.
    Great Lines – God Bless the person who made those jeans, I can wear him like a scrunchy and I love the smell of nail polish in the morning.
    Who took Bill – I agree with you, I hope they don't make it Eric. Allan said we will meet a new evil vampire, Franklin Mott, he wasn't really evil in book 3 but this is True Blood so who knows or maybe they will bring back Lorena, you know what they say about a woman scorned. Guess we'll have to wait 9 months to see what Alan Ball and crew have up their sleeves.
    Can't wait.

  5. Yinka Wills Says:
    September 17th, 2009 at 12:01 AM

    First, LOVE your reviews!
    Now, the MaryAnn saga…like many, I had conflicting feelings. On the one hand, I felt it was drawn out over too many episodes, didnt like how it altered Tara, and flt annoyed when it took away screen time from the goings on in Dallas. And the actor playing Eggs was wooden. However, Michelle Forbes is a brilliant actress, and she was incredible in the role. I came to see her as someone not so much evil as operating outside 21st century mortal perameters. I wanted her dead- but felt genuine pity when she realised, at the end that The God Who Comes wasnt there. The True Blood team did a brilliant diversion with the Andy-is-stabbed-and -dying. When the huge, beautiful white bull appeared I thought it might actually BE Dionysius.

  6. Yinka Wills Says:
    September 17th, 2009 at 12:15 AM

    As for the bridesmaids/vetsal virgins/handmaidens…that was a trip. For me, the best line of the episode, was Lafayette, on top of the whicker man style meat statue, resplendent in his white dress, bellowing 'Worship him, bitches!' at the attendant mob.That cracked me up. The pacing of the episode was wierd. MaryAnn's death and the culmination of that arc was way too early. It should have happened three quarters of the way through. The last couple of episodes had been leading up to it.They packed too much other stuff into the episode- the Hoyt revelation, Jessica's descent into butchery, Bill's kidnapping.

  7. Yinka Wills Says:
    September 17th, 2009 at 12:15 AM

    The Eric and the Queen scenes were a waste of time. ERW has gone with the wrong choices in portraying the character, having been handed a bad script. She's jarring compared to the rest of the cast, many of whos characters have been well drawn from the get go. Eric appeared neutered- but it was strange because EWR's portrayal wasnt scary enough. (If Michelle Forbes had played her, we'd all have been shuddering through the whole Yatzee nonsense). My other fave moment was Arlene's children. So smart. Not buying the whole Rene's-on-a-trip schtick. 'Yup, he's dead!' is their conlusion. They can see right through the grown ups. If they're typical of Bon Temps children, I want to see lots more of them!

  8. GraffixJeff Says:
    September 17th, 2009 at 1:23 AM

    Love your reviews, Roth!
    As much as I do love MA as a character, her story was long overdue for a conclusion. After seeing the episode for a 3rd time, I find it a satisfying ending. And I liked how Bill and Sam came to a sort of understanding.

    In regards to Eric selling the V for the Queen. I have a funny feeling it's setting up for the foundation of the "Dead to the World" story. Hopefully you know what I'm going with this. It may also be a clever device for Eric to assist Sookie in rescuing Bill. Btw, I do feel those were Lorena's gloved hands. Just my theory.

    With the death of Eggs, I'm afraid Tara will have those walls up now more than ever. She will lash out at everyone, especially Andy Bellefluer. Liking the bond between Andy and Jason too.

    And I totally agree that Sam's story will introduce us to the Were community. Probably similar to how Jason and Sookie's story began to intertwine in Dallas.

    Personally, I loved the second half of the episode WAY better. To me it was getting back to basics. Every character will be going through a journey of self discovery rather than some crazy "epic" battle. This what AB & comapny are good at.

    And as far as ERW goes- I'm thinking we'll see more layers to this Queen. Not counting her out yet. Remember, many fans thought the same about Eric in season 1.

    All an all, a satisfying ending.

    Only 9 months to go….. sigh… :-/

  9. Erika Says:
    September 17th, 2009 at 7:55 AM

    Like for most fans the finale was eh so so… My favorite line was " I would wear him like a scrunchie" You are right about the show veering away from the books but I think that it is the same person in both book and show that kidnapped Bill based on what Alan Ball has said about leaving clues during the season that points to who it is like he did with Rene in season 1. However the only thing I can think of is the exchange that took place outside of Godrics place right before it blows up and Lorena saying "I wish you wouldnt of said that then taking off. I really hope that they dont make it Eric!! Enough of him always being the "bad" vamp!!

    What did you think about Bills proposal? Are they trying to get those who havent read the books to like Bill even more so that they are that much more disappointed when he turns out not to be the nice guy…I dont get it. Thanks for the reviews I really enjoyed them..until next season!!

  10. Marc Says:
    September 20th, 2009 at 12:35 AM

    Interview with Alan Ball where he discusses the season 2 finale. VERY informative and looks like season 3 will be exciting.

    http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2009/09/14/exclusive-...

  11. rothcornet Says:
    September 22nd, 2009 at 1:16 AM

    Hi Sochi80! Thanks! Thanks for commenting! Yes I can see why you feel that way about the finale! I agree with what you say! I think Hoyt and Jessica have the potential to be one of the best parts of the coming season. Not sure what HBO will do – even Sex and The City one of their most successful series stayed at a 13 episode season except for their final season…Hmmm those are really interesting casting choices! What do you think about the choice Denis O’Hare? Thank you so much for watching all season and for commenting! Hope to hear more from ya soon and in the future :D !

    Many Thanks!

    Roth

  12. rothcornet Says:
    September 22nd, 2009 at 1:25 AM

    Hi Elizabeth! Thanks so much for watching and for commenting! I really, really appreciate it :) and it is always great to hear from you :) ! I also really look forward to season three and all that is to come :D ! Thank you on the reviews. New and original sketches coming soon! We've gotten busy with the blogs and reviews but we really love to do the sketches. We have some we are working on now :) ! Thank you for asking how you can support ThinkHero – we appreciate the support more than we can say! I certainly do. You know tuning into the videos and passing them along is really a great help! We try to reach out to as much of our potential audience as we can and that can be quite a task in the Internet/blogosphere. So we really do appreciate that! Thank you so much again for watching, commenting, passing along the videos and continuing to tune in!

    Hope you are great and talk to you soon!

    Roth

  13. rothcornet Says:
    September 22nd, 2009 at 1:31 AM

    Hi Landfill! Thanks for commenting! Good to hear from ya! I agree on the waiting on the end on that! On the queen – wont give away any potential book spoilers :D .

    Yeah they needed to set us up for the next season – I do think there is some potential for some really great stuff in the coming season. One of the things I am looking most forward to is the Hoyt/Jessica storyline :D

    Thanks again for commenting! Hope you are great!

    Roth

  14. rothcornet Says:
    September 22nd, 2009 at 1:44 AM

    Hi DeeN!! Thank you! Thanks for watching and for commenting! I liked how the Queen was with Eric – this was a new flavor for him. He looked like a frightened puppy in some ways. Haha – well not sure how the blood works in their universe BUT I am assuming you need to be sexually oriented towards the vamp to begin with for it to give you sex dreams and as Sam is strait perhaps he will feel bonded to Bill in more of a brotherly fashion? I agree on Jason and Andy – that makes little to no sense. and on the engagement – I know many loved it but honestly – I just felt neutral about it. I'd like to see more fire back in their relationship – less…bleh. I really LOVED her reaction that is the most Sookie like she has been all season!!! Those very natural feelings of uncertainty in the face of all that madness! If they had left it off at her in the bathroom – conflicted – deciding – It would create more tension for the coming season – more of an unknown for us – the audience.

  15. rothcornet Says:
    September 22nd, 2009 at 1:44 AM

    Yeah it did seem as if Eggs was trying to provoke Andy – I think they did this to maintain and strengthen the bond between Andy and Jason. LOVED Jessica LOVED :D !

    Haha Loved the whole exchange between the "wear him like a scrunchie" ladies :)
    I have theories on the kidnapper but yes – who knows :D !

    Looking forward to season three – thanks so much again for commenting! Hope to hear more from you soon!

    Roth

  16. rothcornet Says:
    September 22nd, 2009 at 2:54 AM

    HI Yinka Willis! Thanks for commenting! I totally agree on Michelle Forbes – she really is a powerhouse of a performer! I felt for her in many of her scenes along the way and was glad that she was able to bring that to her character. I thought it might be Dionysus as well for a moment :) ! Lafayette pretty much always cracks me up :D ! I agree on the pacing as well. I agree Eric did seem neutered I understand his choice to play it that way and I also agree I wish I felt more natural tension in the scene. I liked the scene with the kids as well and think that the Hoyt/Jessica storyline has the potential to be one of the greatest of the coming season! Again thanks so much for watching and commenting – I hope you stay tuned to our videos and hope to hear more from you soon!

    Many Thanks!

    Roth

  17. rothcornet Says:
    September 22nd, 2009 at 3:36 AM

    Thanks GraffixJeff! Thanks for posting!
    I understand your sense about the set up for the coming season and who the culprit is in the kidnapping. I'm not sure – and honestly all I want is that it is well done and interesting ;D Whoever it is. I believe the motivations in the book were complex and I truly hope maintain their depth here :D Yes love Andy and Jason too!
    :D I agree on ERW – I have accepted it is not what I had pictured and think more fun can be had out of it. Looking forward to season three :D ! Thank you for watching and for commenting! Hope to hear more from you!

    All The Best and talk to you soon!

    Roth

  18. rothcornet Says:
    September 22nd, 2009 at 3:44 AM

    Thank you Erika! Thanks for watching and for commenting! I loved the scrunchie line too! I actually really loved the whole exchange between those two ladies :D ! About the kidnapping – yes I think they will stick to the books – overall with a few changed on motivation and results.

    About the proposal – well, I feel sort of neutral on it. I know many loved it.

    I'm not sure where Alan Ball is taking the show but I am not sure they will reveal, the reveal from the books :D

    We shall see. Thank you so much for watching and for commenting! I hope you check out our other videos and to hear more from you soon!

    Many Thanks!

    Roth

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