May 13th, 2015- An Apology

If there's any indication that the storyline between Alicia and Lachlan is over, tonight's brilliantly played closure definitely sealed it. I personally don't understand the displeasure some folks have with this story. It's intriguing, different, dramatic and sometime downright ugly (in the best way possible)- all the elements of a great soap plot. It also helps tremendously the actors involved are brilliant in it. Natalie Anderson, Thomas Atkinson and Louise Marwood have been great with the material and it only gets me excited to see what other things are planned for Alicia and Lachlan since we're kinda getting to a head with Chrissy and Robert.

Which leads me to Chrissy playing coy. Aaron, a better person for not exposing Robert's affair, attempts to get Chrissy to reconcile with Robert. It almost worked too, if it wasn't for the latest round of Robert whiplash. I preferred him drunk only because we hear the truth when he's drunk. So what will Chrissy's plan of action be? She's obviously playing along to plot something and seeing what she was capable of with Mafia Don, I'm not sure Robert will be a match.

Emma, Emma, Emma. You crazy lady. I don't have much to add for her since she hasn't done much since adding blackmailing her son yesterday. She just reverted back to being a bitch for no reason- at least I get to see more stoned acting from Charley Webb. As close as Finn is to exposing her, the tangled web is now within her own family, maybe once Pete finds out and James return, the family will take care of it themselves- which will probably have the most effect on Emma. 

And what's this? Dan can afford to go to college this very moment? Interesting. Thought turning a Spencer from blue collar to white collar can be something to jolt that family from being uninteresting.

May 12th, 2015- An Unlikely Friendship

I'll go down and say it. This was one of the best non-stunt episodes on this show for a very long time. Everything seem to be colliding at the right pace besides (ironically) Laurel's storyline- which has been gangbusters. Let's get to it.

The most intriguing scene to me was the one between Belle and Lachlan. This scene makes sense and I've been waiting for it for so long. For as much connection these two teenagers had since Lachlan's arrival, a conversation where someone who tells Lachlan the truth on his level is what has been missing in this storyline if the show's intention is to draw more human complexity to it. That's what has been missing on Lachlan's end. Yes, he's the offender who did a terrible thing and the show could've gone a much easy route and make him a simple villain like Emma, but by injecting someone who can tell him the truth and bring some humanity to him, you have an actual character. It doesn't hurt that Eden Taylor-Draper and Thomas Atkinson are superb actors. Getting Alicia to be trapped with him in a car? Even more brilliant. Will the next conversation between these two end up better than the last one after the court hearing? I hope so.

Ashley becomes to the latest person to attempt to help Laurel. He's getting the right idea since I hear a way to a lady's heart is food. But Laurel is having none of it since she's content with her screwdriver. That skepticism you can see in Harriet's eyes when Ashley tell her he's cooking Laurel's favorite dish? Priceless.

Frustrated by being cornered by everyone and how nothing is going right, we were introduced to drunk Robert. It's rare sight. Even in his lies and deceits, Robert has always been very well put together and organized. Get him a bit to drink and you get someone who's vulnerable and speaks the truth about his fears- of being alone. Interesting angle. I must confess, I was little drawn to this charming psychopath in this vulnerable state.. and judging by the few seconds he didn't push Robert away when he kissed him, so was Aaron. I've been back and forth on this Robron radar since it's conception. Judging from today, it pushed me to a 6 (out of 10). I have a soft spot for vulnerable charming men.

Now we know there's no line Emma won't cross. The one person who drove her away from her family, the one person who she was guilt ridden over for decades is the same person who's bribing to keep her secrets to get what she wants. It just so happens to be her son. And her son just so happens to be Ross. This is testy waters for that character and the audience. Will she throw her family under the bus? It appears so. 

Great episode overall. I hope the tide is turning for the summer.

May 11th, 2015- So Full Of Yourself

Laurel is entering cat lady territory. It makes sense that she doesn't want Doug's help at the moment. She's too frustrated by the situation to get help. I hope she doesn't keep being this way because it's no fun. Either advance her actions or get her into more trouble. I have faith in the writing and acting because this has been top notch so far from both ends.

Leave it to Robert to apologize by insulting the other person. Classic narcissist. Who would go up to his estranged wife and tell her he's sorry but she should take him back because he's still awesome? WHO? Robert Sugden. That's who. Chrissy, who continues to call Robert out exactly as he is, response perfectly but giving him the option of being divorced now or later in front his family. Between that and Aaron rejecting his latest advance, it's not a good day for the blond psychopath. Did you see the face on Andy's face when Chrissy came into the bar and deliver the news? Genius.

Just as I thought a Chas/James reunion was inevitable, the show manages to surprise me and get Chas to say no to James' idea of a 2-week getaway to reconcile. Their breakup scene summarized their relationship- blah. Even the breakup was bland. I hope Chas sticks to her guns because this relationship was never good for the show. It always felt like the two were put together because they were single and around the same age.

All this of course makes Emma happy. She gets James to not reunite with Chas (for the moment) in hope she can swoop in and rekindle something from decades ago. Her new threat though is none other the person who brought her into Emmerdale- her son, Finn. This should play out interesting. She's never been tested by her opposition because she couldn't care less who they were. But now, it's her son. Her son who's actually pretty smart when it comes to anything besides his love life.

I got a question as to why the audience (I'm assuming most) is more taken with Robert than Emma since they have a very similar mindset and storyline. It's a rather good question. I had to think twice. I  think it's because of two reasons. One, there are more at stakes. Robert's lies and deceits involve more characters and the consequences of murder outweighs stealing a passport any day of the week. Second, we care more about who's involved in Robert's storyline than in Emma's. Robert is fighting for Aaron (a fan favorite) and Chrissy (a slow burning fan favorite) while Emma is gunning for James. Dull as bread James. Of course we care more.

Finally, Alicia's gungho at warning whoever Lachlan's next victim is. Going to Lisa to confirm Lachlan is not seeing Belle is smart and as much as Belle know what Lachlan doing is wrong, you can sense she sympathizes with him- which obviously displeased Lisa because nowadays a carton of spoiled milk seem to give that woman a heart attack. It's a very interesting angle to play at between Belle and Lachlan. Both bad crimes, one was an accident and both come from very supportive families even if their way of showing and protecting them cannot be more different. It's potential like these that gives me great hope about the next generation of Emmerdale residents. The younger crowd got game.

May 8, 2015- Mommy's Kissing Another Bloke

On tonight's episode of 'What Will Drunk Laurel Do Next?', we see our heroine kidnap 2 children and lock themselves in her house. New day, new adventure. So Marlon has officially given up on Laurel, Rhona, Paddy and Ashley can't get through to her either. It's left to her father to pick up the pieces. He has to succeed, right? Unless we're in for something else traumatic with Doug. I hope not, that would indeed be a tragedy.

Two weeks with James in France. While it doesn't appeal to me in the slightest bit (the man is as dull as expired, sugar free bread), Chas seems to be okay with it. It's odd because it took a nudge from Moira and a slight vendetta towards Emma to convince her to go. It's not like she actually wants to go. This sets off Emma to steal Chas's passport (not sure in the UK, but in the US that's a federal crime) and we all got to take a peek at Chas' birthday. She's HOW OLD!?! 37? That's it? You've got to be kidding me.

Tracy continues to be one note to even made Bernice seem like a victim. So now she went from no job to two jobs and free lodging? Maybe I'm wrong about her. She's pretty smart. I could learn a thing or two from this one before continue to judge.

Finally, Alicia poses as someone's bride for Leyla's brochure pictures. I'm glad David was there... and a little disappointed we didn't see at least a slight comedic David when Alicia went in for the kiss. Should we bring up Lachlan? They're really not going to let these characters move on from this storyline and I am glad. Lachlan is obviously lying about having a girlfriend, but let's see what lengths Alicia will go to to warn this fake person about Lachlan.

Did we really go a week without Chrissy? I miss her.

May 7, 2015- The Second Coming Of Jesus (AKA John The Baptist)

So much to cover on the double episode, some good, some bad, some downright jaw dropping and some embarrassing (that's you Emma). Let's get to it.

Just when you think the worst is over for Laurel, Cain manages to intervene and push her even further. I'm glad Moira began to defend Laurel, but like most people who try to defend themselves to Cain, they fail- because Cain thinks he's right, he's right. Just in this instance, his action pushed a fragile Laurel further over the edge, who decides to skip down drinking drunk. The result? A dead dog. Not any dead dog, Marlon's dead dog.

The entirely of their marriage has been burdened by sadness and this is just the latest. Will Marlon tell Cain to butt out even further? Will Moira try to stop Cain from making a fool out of himself? I hope it's a yes for both. This marriage has even going against it without someone like Cain interfering.

In her latest episode of psychotic behavior, Emma pretends to be beaten up by city folks just to separate whatever is rekindling between James and Chas. This woman is nuts. Finn might as well go to Portugal to get away from that hot mess. And seriously, 3 parents wanting to bring their respective gay sons to the one gay bar in the area? Brilliant and understanding. From the way Finn and Aaron were behaving, you'd never know they were wanting to chat up guys in the bar. Then again, you'd almost forget those two actually slept together once. As boring as it sounds, a Chas/James reunion seems inevitable.

Kerry's plan to help Amelia cope is to give her Jesus. The running joke was actually hilarious. I just kept waiting for the next punchline since it was working so well. As for the story itself, it's nice to see Amelia warm up to Kerry so well. I hope with Ali out of the picture, it doesn't mean that Dan will take up Ali's over protective, irrational traits towards his daughter (and Kerry).

A very nice cameo by Nicola tonight to again emasculate Jimmy once more. Bernice obviously set it in motion thinking Tracy stole things from her, but kicking Tracy out of the house hopefully ends this storyline. Though by the looks of things, Bernice's feeling remorse since it was her evil child that stole all those things and might contemplate her actions. Let's not revisit it, okay?

Finally, the Portugal option came in play not only for Finn, but for David and Alicia as well. It went away just as fast, as they can't find help covering their shop while they'll potentially go away. Short little arc, but I do wonder if Portugal does eventually send someone away from Emmerdale.

May 6th, 2015- The Devil Over Marlon's Shoulder

This "advice" from Cain to Marlon is not making me like him any better. Is serious in thinking Laurel can't be rescued and that there's no trace of good left in her because of her drinking? What a moron. Like a demon who's monologuing in someone's head, Cain manages to convince Marlon ending the marriage is the correct move. Marlon is a much better man Cain ever will be, so I hope he doesn't follow through with it. Sigh. It's all pretty ridiculous.

Another ridiculous thing that happened tonight? That tackle Jimmy gave to Tracy and Bernice. I won't even go into it because it's not worth anymore discussing until someone new actually happens besides Tracy smugging or Bernice whining.

Amelia runs away for the second time in that many days. Dan manages to convince Ali to let her stay with him and Kerry until Sean gets better. Thank goodness. I would hate to lose a character like Dan to Kerry, even though there's not much for them to do at the moment. But at least they're potential. That bit where Kerry sang Mariah Carey's "We belong together..."... classic Kerry.

How Brenda manages to forgive so easily is beyond me. Is she that gullible? Or is she just that nice? Probably the latter. I'm certain this won't be the end of Carly's torment since the show can't seem to manage to give her anything to do, but I'm ready to take a break for it. The story, not the show... well, maybe the show.

May 5th, 2015- On To Liverpool

After a game of hide and seek with Amelia, Ali and Ruby are off to Liverpool in the quickest pack and go I've ever witness. Since I just moved and it took weeks to pack, I'm envious of their move. Did they hire somebody? I could've used that contact. So the main question in this is if Dan is going to follow as he promised Amelia? Or will he hold his ground in Emmerdale with Kerry? I'm hoping the latter because I like Dan and Kerry's relationship, but am truly not mad if he decides to go. That clan has played out their potential as is. It only makes sense for me if Sean does indeed recover and returns. He has the making of a classic good guy this village so desperately needs.

As long as they play this Bernice/Jimmy/Tracy version of 'Three's Company' for idiot laughs, the more I don't care about them- which is ashamed because all three characters used to involved in dramatic arcs until 6 months ago. Now, they're all just jokers.

So what's the deal with Laurel? Her alcoholism is taking a more manipulative turn. It makes sense since it's the next gradual step in the story of recovery. But you can pretty much kiss this "marriage" between Marlon and her goodbye, not that it was much of a marriage to begin with. He spent have the time mourning over an ex-lover and she spent the other half drinking herself to vomit. Hiding wine in her boots will surely result in someone finding it. Let's just hope it's Doug and not April.

What's the female equivalent of a manchild? Whatever it's called, Carly is that. This story has not progressed at all since her arrival. It's been months. Are we seriously going to periodically check in on Carly behaving badly towards Brenda for the rest of the year? It's all so vile and childish, even for the little known about Carly.

May 4th, 2015- The Retro Copper Deer

Well, there you go. A punch to the face. The dilemma in it all is that the punch resulted from equal blame from both Laurel and Marlon. Yes, he grilled her with some hard truths and she obviously got them into the mess to begin with- so the punch was just another turning point in their marriage. Is Laurel really seeking help this time around? Or is it just another pleasing lie to tell somebody to get off her back? Either way, Charlotte Bellamy continues to knock it out of the park- especially when her scene partners have been hamming it up. And seriously... Cain? Giving marriage advice to Marlon? Oh please. How very Dingle of him.

Carly's back in this week's edition of repairing her relationship with Bob. She's still one note and definitely hasn't shown hints of it changing. Let's just move on and let her do something else and see if that character's even capable of servicing the show. That painting, though? I actually liked it. Does that make me a hipster? Probably.

This Belle gets a job thing is playing out so tedious. I cringe just watching Lisa nowadays. I get that her character has been with the show for a very long time, but when was the last time the show actually used her? It's interesting to read comments from viewers about getting rid of this and that characters when the ones on the show aren't being used as is.

So are lesbians out of here? Is Dan going to go with? I don't care. Just don't take Kerry.

May 1st, 2015- The World's Worst Hangover

Disclaimer: Someone asked me if I read spoilers for the show, so I want to clear it up. I try to avoid them. It works 90% of the time so I usually do not know what's happening next or cast changes.

Today, we see how Laurel's drinking problem has affected everyone around her. From Bernice to Bob, Rhona to Doug, we're beginning to see how everyone is affected by it- most of all, Marlon. After being reminded by Doug that Laurel is his wife and he needs to treat her so, Marlon finally draws a line- one more slip up and he's giving up. It's fair considering he's finally learn about the time April had a sip of Laurel's mimosa and had to go to the ER.

In a quicky, Belle finds out that Lisa has been paying her off books for her work at Sharma & Sharma. I'm so glad Priya didn't spill the beans and let the family deal with it. She's smart. Don't let Dingles handle their mess themselves. It's nice to see Belle asking about Sean.

So are Ali and Ruby on their way out of Emmerdale? Is Ali serious in telling Dan he has to move too? Ali has always been a woman on the verge of a nervous breakdown. She simply does not handle any kind of stress well and given this is her son that's in jeopardy, her thinking thermometer is almost non-existent. Dragging your ex-husband into moving after asking his girlfriend for money is almost insane and shameful. Someone should tell her... perhaps her wife?

A potential exit for Ali, Ruby and Dan makes a lot of sense and this show needs a massive exodus of players since it has a tendency to only use new characters for a few months before back burning them. I just hope Kerry doesn't go since she's my spirit animal.

Other end of the week quick notes:
- I almost expected Darren, or worse- Emma, to show up and be Laurel's nurse. Can you imagine integrating Emma into this mess?
- A whole week without Carly and I didn't miss her one bit.
- Vanessa and Kirin hiding the pregnancy from Rakesh. Good luck.

April 30th, 2015- The Fat Sister and The Curmudgeon

Has Ali always been this irrational in her thinking? Not that she's been one of my favorites or anything, but she's a rather irritating person. Nothing is ever her fault. God bless Ruby for putting up with that for so long. For as little I care about this storyline, I hope they don't kill Sean offscreen. That'd be a shame. He's a pretty valuable character in the teen canvas that's already connected to the rest of the characters in Emmerdale. A young adult vet would be refreshing for this show.

So Vanessa finally told Kirin and his reaction is so convenient for the father to not be his. I don't like where this is going just because it's so cliche. Imagine that... the not cliche thing in soaps is when the father is NOT the other guy. Ha. Adam is growing Dingle characteristics when he's blaming Vanessa for telling Rhona about the one night stand when he did the exact same thing with Aaron. I do like how Aaron doesn't seem concerned about the actual affair considering what he's been upto. I hope Victoria dumps him when she finds out about the liaison.

I do not know why I'm rooting for Tracy to have character development. I'm actually ashamed to admit it. She's a rather useless character who never contributed much to the landscape but here I am, wishing the show would give her actual character growth. Perhaps it's due to the amount the time I had to watch her being so one-note (again, other then the brief time with Andy). Having her in the same household as Jimmy and Bernice will continue to test her chemistry with different cast members on the show. Perhaps it's show runner Kate Oates' way of shopping her around? Who knows. There was a brief moment of humanity in her scene with Val and Eric when she finally decided to go. Let's see where that takes her.

Where Tracy's hiring took Laurel was a very dark place. It was violent, it was disgusting and it was tragic. A relapse. Bringing the kids to find Laurel took the icing on the cake. This was worse than anything she's done prior to her trip away and it appears that Marlon might not have enough strength to see it through. Charlotte Bellamy has been knocking her drunk scenes out of the park and I have no doubt she'll be able to elevated this arc than being a typical alcoholism storyline.

April 29, 2015- The Break-In Cleaner

I can't believe Vanessa manages to tell Adam about her pregnancy first before telling Kirin. I get it, Kirin is playing everything up to be a joke but Adam!?! The guy who quickly dismissed you before calling you his cougar fix? Good job, Ness. I'm sure Adam is the sensible one.... sigh.

The whiplash I'm feeling within this storyline is insane. It was literally the previous episode that Vanessa was determined to have this abortion and how nothing can change her mind, and just one look at Marlon being chased around the swings and she's having an 180. Even more ridiculous is Rhona's position on it. She's almost doing the exact opposite of what a supportive friend does- constantly playing devil's advocate and making the other person feel bad about it.

If I hear one more person in "It's over" between Aaron and Robert, I'm going to vomit. They've said that to each other so many times that I don't believe either them mean it anymore when they say it... and it's starting to show that neither do they. That cheery and uppity Aaron in the container with Adam? What was he smoking before Adam got there? Because I want some.

I'm not sure what the purpose of throwing Laurel into that Jimmy/Bernice/Tracy fiasco is but it's hard to take a character from a character driven plot and insert her into a plot driven one- especially when it's being played for laughs. I can only assume Laurel won't get the job and it'll show her relapsing. Someone please give Jimmy (and heck, even Tracy- I need to know why she's around town) a good solid emotional story.

Quick note on Pearl and Edna. How dare Pearl yell at Vanessa about covering for her? Where's all that remorse she's going on about from a few weeks ago when she stole money from the vets? Edna. What are feeling your pet?

Your dog is always sick.

April 28, 2015- The Cougar Fixation

Drunk Laurel's back! About time too, because things were starting to get cheery around Emmerdale (note sarcasm). I'm glad though, because her alcohol abuse hit a climax and then the show decided to halt it full stop by sending her away for 2 weeks. I seriously hope this isn't end of her problems simply I'd hate the solution to be played off screen. After all that the audience witness Laurel do in her spiral, I think we deserve a payoff shown to us. With or without Rhona's bug. Also, Ashley is in desperate need of a haircut.

Something about Aaron saying he's done with Robert that's not convincing me at all- even though Chas is delighted to hear so. Of course the sensible thing for Aaron to do is indeed be done with psychotic Robert, but I doubt the show will let this go that easily without another plot point. Something needs to happen before Aaron lets Robert go. There's definitely plenty of options, I'm just curious (and excited) to see which one. 

I absolutely love that Chrissy is saying what everyone think of Robert to his face. It's about time. Other villagers certainly tried to throw insults to Robert, but none are as accurate as Chrissy's lament. Her calling out Robert exploiting Lawrence's guilt? Bingo!

Oh Vanessa. I certainly wouldn't decide on an abortion seconds after a potential hurls an insult at you.  The ex-con thing... yeah, grounds to cause concern. Calling you a cougar who fixed his curiosity? Well, that doesn't warrant an abortion... just a punch in the face to the one who said it. Please go ahead, punch him- because no one would hold you back. Trust me.

If the show wants us to take Jimmy, Bernice or Tracy seriously, they'll need to us a serious storyline that at least have potential. While the Finn/Darren arc ended in disaster in entertainment measure, this one doesn't even suggests it'll go anywhere. I'd really hate to suffer through this for 2 weeks.

April 27, 2015- Preggers

It was literally a wild guess I had last week saying Vanessa is pregnant.... and here she is- preggers. I guess it's a naturally transgression for the storyline but I really hope we don't get dragged through 9 months of "Who's The Daddy?" with these three characters. While I can see why making Adam the father would make sense for the show that is desperate in trimming the cast, making Kirin the father allows that character be more connected to the overall fabric of the show. We'll see where this goes, if Vanessa ends up delivery a baby at all.

Now that's Finn's 2-week arc is over, it's time a new 2-week arc for someone else. This time, it's Tracy & Jimmy. It'll be brief, played for laughs and nothing will come of it unless Jimmy starts shacking up with Tracy (please, dear god, no). It'll sure be painful this show has never given Tracy anything worth while to do besides that brief romance with Andy when we saw a little bit of emotion from her besides aloof. Yes, I've judged on this based on one day of story but c'mon... who are we kidding?

Chrissy managed to kick Robert out of the house. I'm wondering about many things from this. First, what will Chrissy tell Lawrence about Robert's sudden departure? Second, having Robert and Aaron (who is still in crutches!?!?!) under the same roof will sure make things interesting- especially for Chas. Third, will Robert smooth talk his way back to Chrissy? This is by far the best storyline the show has going right now now that the Alicia/Lachlan arc is fading out. Let's hope it carries the weight until something else juicy comes along.

Mopey Ross is now hung up on Debbie? Is her vagina made of gold? I don't get it. I simply don't. But leave it to Emma to meddle. After this, she'll have interfered with all the Barton men's love lives.... save for Adam. Let's hope it doesn't come to that.

April 24, 2015- Soggy Corn Flakes

Oh Debbie, if all you needed in a man was someone who would help your kid with his soggy corn flakes, no wonder you're so messed up in the romance department. This storyline between Debbie and Ross, that continues to come out of nowhere, took a huge leap tonight in getting Pete and Debbie engaged. Obviously this won't last because of... obvious. It's inevitable that Debbie and Ross will at least kiss before she manages to walk down the aisle of his brother, and then let's see where this goes. I don't think it'll tear up the Bartons apart since Ross and Pete were always on the verge of being in a full on fight, but seeing how the Dingles react would even be better. How can this self righteous family reason themselves to being the ones on their imaginary pedestal in something like this? So scandalous, they'd need to hire Olivia Pope.

Ross was certainly busy tonight, since he dropped a bomb on Chrissy about the fake robbery. Robert manages to confess about spending a little time denying everything. If Chrissy is going to react like that about the robbery, I don't even want to know how what she'd do when she finds out about Aaron. Isn't it strange that between all the lies Robert told, you can see him actually prioritizing his lies in the matter of how much it'd get him into trouble. The relief on his face when he realizes it's not about Aaron said a lot... about him and where this story is going.

It's nice seeing Vanessa and Kirin together, as predictable as all that's going to be. I have a feeling someone's going to be pregnant and we'll have a "Who's The Daddy?" story on our hands. If it's true, let's hope it's not Adam's, because sleeping with Adam and the fall out from that will probably be enough as is. This is one storyline I don't care to get more complicated. Also, I have a soft spot for Kirin... as much as he can be portrayed as a kid at times.

Lawrence should never be the ambassador for goodwill. Let's just leave it to the ladies. I want that bridge to be rebuild between Alicia and Chrissy and seeing how Alicia is slowly gaining her confidence back will surely help the matter. I just don't know Chrissy's head will be in that space at all now she's got more pressing issues to deal with.

April 23, 2015- How Alicia Got Her Groove Back

Before moving on to the main event, let's talk about the side stories.

I finally realize who Joe Gill reminds me of. Jemaine Clement from 'Flight of the Conchords'. The look and the comedic timing, it's been bugging me for ages and finally came to me when Finn asked Val why she took so long before answering if he can be annoying. (By the way, the answer is yes. I like you, but I can't never date you). Now that the story with Darren has mercifully concluded, will we get a mopey Finn again? Because that will get old.

I have no real opinion about Alicia and David and their struggle to reconnected after the Lachlan incident. It just seems like a progression Alicia has to deal with and we're just watching with no real drama. It's not negative per se, in fact I do think this story beat is necessary before the show full on ignores it, but I was hoping it wasn't turned into a joke involving Leyla to get to this point. That scene between Alicia and Chrissy outside? Brilliant. Two hurt women dealing with other issues in their lives while not forgetting the past. This is the kind of thing Emmerdale can do so well. First between Lawrence and Edna yesterday and this today. Keep it up.

Now. Let's get down to it. This is the most attracted I've seen Robert has been to Chrissy since their arrival. He is actually both impressed and scared witnessing Chrissy's phone call to Mafia Don. It obviously serves a warning to what's to come when all his own secret comes out, but for now, you can see he was a little turned on by the whole thing- even if it involves Ross.

Ross dragging Debbie into this mess is an added bonus. I'm not against the show revisiting a possible Ross/Debbie romance, but in expense of Pete is pretty shameful. Also, didn't this come out of nowhere from Ross? Very little organic storytelling is there for plot driven stories to begin with, but this sudden confession of love from Ross to Debbie about running away with him? Yeah, it's a bit nutter and "pervy". She's in your mother's dress!

This won't end well for Debbie... or Ross.... or the entire White family. Mafia Don knows where you live. He's seen Debbie around before and obviously knows where Chrissy lives- not that she cares. She'll willing to get him out of the picture with no expense. I'm just wondering how long before Ross lets Chrissy in on Robert's previous plan and explode even more drama into the mix. I'm even excited as to how Ross and Debbie plays out. One thing I'm not looking forward to? The mafia coming to town.

April 22, 2015- The Double Cross

Okay, this is getting better. Involving Ross into this thing with Mafia Don will no doubt inject some much needed life into the story. I also like how it's Chrissy pulling the trigger this time instead of Robert. I can only assume something will go wrong and it somehow comes back to haunt her... well, because it's a soap. At least they got Andy & Victoria to Robert's birthday drinks. Talk about a low stated affair.

I don't know how this show manages to do so, but even when Debbie is apologizing, she can make it seem like it's not her fault. Pete is too good for her, everyone can see that. I bet Debbie will let James stay at her house now... Haha.

Then we get two of the more comedic moments of the episode. First, Finn & Darren. It's almost pathetic now, isn't it? How long will the show draw this up for laughs? You'd think Finn, who got broken up with by Simon for lies, will manage to not lie and be an adult about this. I'm calling it... I'm on Team Darren. That moment when it was just him and Emma, James and Ross in the kitchen. The most awkward five seconds of my life. Now about those flowers and champagne.. I'll take them if Finn doesn't.

And secondly, resorting David back to uncomfortable David so quick is a bit jarring. I get that Alicia will take her time to heal but let's not make a meal out of her clothes. I call nonsense.

April 21, 2015- The Vixen and The Sloth

And here I thought that Carly was to replace the Charity slot, when it's looking like she's occupying the Katie threshold. It makes sense I guess, and it certainly makes her less annoying. It's good her web is getting larger, I just hope they don't squander any friendships or relationships they attempt to give Carly before giving her a plot. Also, I think it's way too soon to being calling Vanessa "Nessa". No wonder the woman doesn't care for you.

This Finn and Darren thing went from peaking my interest to annoying me. This rollercoaster of affection Finn has for Darren is way too drastic. It also doesn't help that Darren is being written like a cartoon puppy dog. At least funny matronal Val is back. Without her overdramatic saying, she's like a gay boy's icon. No wonder Finn is so fond of her.

I always like what shows are able to recall past relationships and plots. It was such a joy to see an Edna and Lawrence scene. It was played to perfection- both the writing and performances. There's a glimmer of why I liked Lawrence in this scene that has since disappeared when the Lachlan/Alicia plot developed. I hope the show continues to do drop scenes like these in the future. It's a refreshing callback.

So Robert (with the help of his sidedish Aaron) finally uncovers the truth about Mafia Don and his colors finally come out flying. I'm actually excited about how this will affect Robert & Chrissy- since Robert has plenty of secrets of his own and Chrissy is continued to being pushed to the brink. I want to see where she reaches her breaking point. I don't care about Mafia Don's actions... he's just a prop in this story.

Another revelation is Debbie telling the pub that Emma tried to drown Ross. I sincerely hopes this will be the beginning of the end of Debbie and Pete. I really do. Sure, it's a bad secret... but c'mon, who are they kidding acting so shocked. Half the village have done something much worse than attempted child murder. Right? I kid.

One commentary note I want to make is that is Kate Oates broke or something? Why does so many residents in this village have financial troubles. Carly, Pearl, Mafia Don, Lisa... what's with that?

April 20, 2015- The Pepperoni Bandit

It's ashamed that this Finn & Darren thing is being played for laughs. I was really hoping for something more on the romance side when these two started hitting it off. And now the show is setting up the end of their relationship like a bad sitcom plot, I guess I'll just go along and laugh with it. I do like how the show keeps interjecting various characters into these Finn/Darren scenes and the reactions have always been spot on. Tonight was no different, since Mike Parr always had good comedic timing when called upon.

Mafia Don sure didn't take long into getting Lachlan out of town. I don't know how I feel about it. On one hand, it makes sense for the show to move into that direction- it'll definitely lightened up the load for the Whites in terms of storytelling, but on the other hand, Lachlan is good for the show. You might hate his character, but he's good for the show. He creates interesting conflicts in different canvas across Emmerdale and that has been a dime a dozen.

This Chas/ James thing is beginning to bore me. Is it as simple as a boring male lead in the middle of the storyline? I'm not so sure. There just seems to be nothing truly character developing from all this. It's too heavily plot driven without the theatrics (unless you count the one smash head). This "where does James stay?" is also a little pointless. I'm glad the show didn't let Debbie completely shun Pete off. That would've been even more over the top for that character. Saying all that, can you IMAGINE Aaron babysitting? Those two kids would be moody, depressed creatures after he's done with them.

Should I touch on Lisa and Belle? I think it's best that I don't. Sigh.

April 17, 2015- Crazy Eyes

And there it is, the least sensible thing Chrissy has done in short stay in Emmerdale so far. Kissing her ex-husband's cheek in front of her current husband. Since she hasn't done anything close to that in the past, I'll just chalk this one up as too much Chardonnay. Psychopath Robert is many things, but stupid he's not. Calling Mafia Don on his bluff that he was attacked by people after Lachlan is right up his alley. It's interesting seeing Robert playing the role of the cat instead of the mouse this time. It's just shame that this plot has to include Debbie.

I know, I'm harsh on her. I'm sorry, but I can't help it. Look at what she's wearing for goodness sakes. Shorts with a long coat? Girl, please. Pete, I get it. There are no other single girls in town your age, but c'mon... Leyla is actually pretty awesome. As if she's not insufferable enough, Cain gives her the advice of stop being so nice. Ha. Classic Dingle.

Emma sure has a lot of bark and no bite. For all the lies and manipulation, has she ever thrown a punch? Or does she just resort to playing the victim? She's a crazy lady with crazy eyes. Even Val can see through all that. It's good for James to call off Aaron's arrest. What's not good is that Chas has taken no time at all in her rationale of possibly getting back together. Watch it Cain, it's not like you're not going to be in a similar situation when Charity gets out of jail. Oh, I would LOVE an all out war between the Dingles and the Bartons- mainly because no one in the village would be on the Dingle side. (Sorry, I promise it's my last dig at that clan this week)

I honestly don't care much for whatever Ali and Rachel are fighting about. I'm not entirely sure what it is about anyway. Something about Rachel taking advantage of Sean being in a hospital? What? With Lisa getting Belle an internship at the factory, will all that squeeze Ali and Rachel into deeper financial troubles?

Have a good weekend... I'll be drinking to having drunk Laurel back next week.

April 16, 2015- A Smash To The Head

Like most Thursdays, a busy day in the village. Let's get to it.

First things first. What is with this defeatist Chas? She actually seems relieved that James slept with Emma. Predictably, Cain and Aaron were more upset than she is. I won't even begin to paint the picture why that is so ironic. So James is kicked out, finally calling Emma out as what she is and what now? Where does this story actually go? I'm curious because this is suddenly Emma's story to tell and that scares me.

I'll say this, it is nice to see the three Barton boys in the same room again and bickering. By far, my favorite set of siblings on the show. It's not so much their individual characters, but how they are so different and yet compliment each other. It's horribly offensive yet hilarious at the same time but Mike Parr's delivery of the line "A gay bloke? On Crutches?" had me in stitches. Another hilarious line tonight? Paddy's "How original." when Aaron tells him about James and Emma.

It's nice to get an update on Sean through Dan and Ali. I liked that character so I hope nothing happens to him so he can be back and add to the younger cast- which is shaping up very nicely. One thing this show is currently excelling at. A non-mental Belle is actually a good character and I can't wait to see her in the middle of some Sharma/Spencer drama- even if Lisa has to be involved.

Another brilliant character (or maybe just actor portrayal) is Lachlan. Thomas Atkinson has been knocking it out of the park with the material. The one scene where you can see the admiration on his face for Mafia Don is so creepingly chilling and vulnerable- sums up Lachlan to a tee. Atkinson is a very good find for the show. I think under another actor, Lachlan would be hated for all sorts of wrong reasons.

So Mafia Don is actually in the mafia!?! Oh Lord. I sincerely despise mafia in non-mafia shows. It never works out the way they intend it to. Somehow I think Robert will be the one that gets to handle that... well, because he's Robert and he needs more drama in his life. Making kissy faces with Aaron in the open, then standing him up is so in line with what he does best- looking out for himself. The build up to all his lies and deceit has been great. I can't wait for the reveal-whenever that might be. I'm excited. Mainly because I adore Chrissy and I can't wait to see how she flourish in her sea of bad men... maybe she should bring Lachlan's headset with her to command duties.

Finally, see you Georgia. How fun at sea.

Okay, I kid... Kerry had the best line tonight... "Vajazzle?"

April 15, 2015- The Vegetarian and The Comic

I guess when the drama's not working, you aim for comedy. For some reason, Finn saying he's been a vegetarian for 12 years made me lose it- or it might just be the turtleneck he's sporting. He looked utter ridiculous. It is really nice to see Victoria and Finn together again in the same room given their recent dramas with their respective boyfriends, but I've got a feeling Darren isn't sticking around for long. It's okay, his comics and quinoa will keep him company.

Meanwhile, Finn's one-note parents are in their own mess. I get that James is suppose to be noble, but how does someone go about putting their shirt on after hooking up and lecture about having to do that right time at the same time? Wish the show would give his nobility some layers. Emma, the ever pathological liar, keeps playing her game. It's almost too repetitive at this point. We get it, you want to bone your husband and get back with him. I hope Chas, the only person I like with the word Dingle attached to their name, gets hold of all of this and just move on. She's got a bigger fish to fry- Robert.

Mafia Don (that's what I'm going to call him from now on until he stops the slimeball business) literally gets breakfast in robe in someone's house. Between that and teaching Lachlan how to fool Chrissy to getting what he wants, his motives are starting to become clear. Almost too clear. At least this bother Robert, and we know how Robert behaves when he's bothered. He grabs a rock and follows you. I hope Chrissy gets through to Lawrence about the situation with David and Jacob. It seems like the story needs a little time to breathe before all action is tacked onto it.

Carly and Leyla. Yeah, this will end well. At least they've broadened Carly's canvas.

Even Jai got in on the comedy. I like it when traditionally dramatic characters get to do something fun. And that's all I'm going to say about that.

April 14, 2015- The Don Enters

Let's add another member to the growing White family. It must be because I'm American, but Donnie has such a thick accent it took me a few seconds to process what he's saying. Either that, or I'm just distracted by his mafia outfit. WHAT IS THE DEAL WITH THAT? Chrissy's world just got more complicated with her ex-husband's arrival and within one episode, all the storyline are already planted. Of course Lachlan will be attached to Don, Lawrence to prefer him over to Robert, Chrissy will keeping juggling and policing the relationships between the men in her life and Robert... oh Robert, as if your dance card for storylines isn't already full- let's bring the ex back in the picture. It's just early snap judgment, but I hope Don gives Robert a run for his money as the new rich, bad boy in town.

Meanwhile, Jacob is ridden with guilt and offers to do wash cars for Rakesh's lawyering skills. Young man needs to get his computer fix and google how much lawyers cost. I'd be disappointed if Alicia decides to keep this quiet- even Jacob knows that thought the crime is different, it's the exact situation Chrissy and Lachlan were in weeks ago.

Emma and James. We've seen this one coming, didn't we? It's already far too predictable how James will react. He's not going to leave Chas and start over with Emma. It's just so out of character- then again, so is kissing Emma. I'm honestly bored by this storyline already. I might be because I don't care for anyone involved. James has always been vanilla in a way that I couldn't root for him, Emma is about as complex as a blank sheet of white paper and Chas, I'm more invested in her take in the Robert/ Aaron saga that I would much rather her character partake in that than deal with this.

Congratulations, Debbie Dingle. You did it. You made me root for Carly. Two brats fighting is utter nonsense but self entitlement is pride always loses with me. Saying that though, take Debbie out of Carly's arc tonight so she becomes as one-note and boring as ever. She said some mean, vile things to Brenda and Bob but there's no complexity there. It's so Emma.

The show is abandoning a lot of good stories so far this week. Where's drunk Laurel? Where's that Kirin/Vanessa/Adam/Victoria business? Where's the one budding romance with Finn & Darren (who got namechecked tonight)? There's always tomorrow.

April 13, 2015- The Italian Job

Emmerdale residents's attempt at comedy were at full swing tonight. Not that it's a particular good or bad thing, but it's certainly a thing. It's certainly nice to see Jimmy again for the time since Nicola's departure, wasn't it? I was glad to see him so much that I didn't even care if it was with Carly. I will even say it made her a little more tolerable. Saying that, the latest in the one note Carly's adventures will most likely cost her new found partner in crime so grief. Though the token nosy neighbor on the phone did had me in stitches for some odd reason. It was so ridiculous.

I'm not sure how the show can fix this Carly problem. It's too easy to say "get rid of her!" without having an attempt to integrate her into the show's canvas. Perhaps that's the problem. She's too individualized in her plot so far. Bob and "Wendy" are all just reactionary characters and have no real supporting status in Carly's quest for.. whatever it is she's in the quest for. Perhaps she'll be less boring if they really pit her with a character that will actually do something, because right now this storyling and re-introduction to Carly is falling really flat.

Talking about scheming, Emma is continuing her expansion in that web of lies and drama now that has engulfed Rhona. I hate that it will be Debbie who gets to save the day, well because it's Debbie Dingle. Will this reenactment of a Three's Company plot between James, Chas and Paddy actually result in anything lasting? I sure hope not. Because Chas and Paddy will always be good friends no matter what- even if Aaron is not in the picture. I guess it'll just take some drama into getting there.

Even Cain got in on the comedy tonight! Sort of.

Sam's idea of proving his loyalties to Rachel got him a punch in the face by Cain. It was actually quite hilarious seeing Cain not wanting to get in on the drama but did so anyway. Even I know Cain is way too good to get involved with this petty Sam and Rachel business. The Dingles are really messed up people.

I think Kerry might be my spirit animal on the show. To be her for one day and just watch all that go down. What must she think of the unnecessary drama her friend, the village idiot, is putting up?

The real drama tonight involved David and Alicia. I'm still glued to how this is unfolding. David getting arrested for covering for Jacob will tie Alicia's hands together as much as Lachlan has Chrissy's hands tied up. I hope for the show's sake that they don't flip Alicia or Chrissy's personalities for the sake of convenient storytelling. It will be interesting to see how Chrissy does react once her ex-husband comes back into the picture.