#can’t wait for more Keenler story

[matan4il]

You had an anon mention slow burns and also Luke and Lorelie. Firstly I agree with the messiness of S5a and S6a. I wrote to you a few weeks ago its just messy timelines and I hope if they get S7 they stop this pacing. I don't know alot about the other ships but I believe in Luke and Lorelie supremacy. However..... no joke it was torture watching it real time pre-tumblr.

Listen, it took them 5 seasons to get together. Really only one season of drama free being together. They spent more time married to other people then spent together. We got the pay off in the last 5 minutes of the finale. We won, so yeah. But that shit was torture every week. Tumblr posts would have been a mess back then if it was the same now.

And I bring all this up to get to my point. I sustained it all because I was relatively certain that this straight couple would make it, I was supposed to root for them. They were at the basis each other's rocks. Buck and Eddie still are straight or the very least believe the other is. That's not just angst to get over, that's a sexual identity crisis to get over.

And hopefully like Gilmore Girls they will. One day I can rewatch the same way I do now. Spoiler alert, wanted to cry when she married Chris in Paris, now I can throw popcorn at it and laugh. Just kidding, I still FF that part.

But again, I'm like you I can't promise it will go Canon. If it doesn't its because they are cowards. However in alot of ways there is a stronger case for Buck and Eddie being soul mates rather then Luke and Lorelie. Again I love L&L but still they were messy and heartbreaking to watch.

Hi lovely Nonnie! Thank you so much for the ask. As well for keeping up with my blog and repeatedly writing to me. I appreciate the vote of confidence! ;)

As for Gilmore Girls, I have to confess that while I’ve seen an ep here or there (I never got to see them in sequence, as you’re meant to, so I never got into the swing of things. I’ve seen enough to know some basic stuff, but not much more than that). So I can’t comment on Luke and Lorelai’s love story beyond the fact that they were OBVIOUS. I could see them coming from the first sec I saw them in a scene together. They were ALWAYS going to happen. The show couldn’t have been clearer about it. And yeah, this is what a slow burn means, if we’re being honest. A lot of torture along the way, because it’s meant to make the pay off at the end that much sweeter. Does it actually manage to do it? The answer varies between ships, and probably between fans of the same ship, too. But that’s the principal, the road is usually bumpy, some parts of it are delicious angst and pining, and screaming about how these bozos still don’t get it, but yeah, some parts of it are not that fun to travel.

My deepest sympathies for going through all of that for Luke and Lorelai! I hear you, and I hope you still got to enjoy at least some of the pay off at the end of it all. I know how you feel. I went through 8 seasons for Keenler (BEWARE! SPOILERS for The Blacklist), and I can count the moments they were actually together on... let’s be generous and say two hands. But stupidly, it works. I treasure the moments that I did get all the more ‘coz I love how long and patiently and without demand Ressler waited for Liz. They had their messiness as well, but God, he loved her so profoundly. To see her realizing that and reciprocating his feelings was beautiful and worth it, even though I will forever wish they had more time together. But to tell you it was fun along the whole way? No. The parts of the story where Liz got back together with Tom were hell, seeing her re-committing herself to him was awful because HE was awful, in general and to Liz (so it wasn’t just as a Keenler shipper that I couldn’t stand that part of the show), and even when he was gone, there were almost two seasons where I survived on essentially one scene of comforting (but seemingly casual and platonic) touch. Slow burn is NOT for the faint of heart.

And you know what I love the most, Nonnie? Is that bit you threw in about Luke and Lorelai still having less in the way of ‘soulmate material’ than Buddie. Because I can actually make a LONG list of CANON couples that I absolutely ADORE that this is true for. And that’s exactly why we keep saying that if Buck or Eddie were a woman, they’d be inevitable, right?

Thank you again, have a great day! As always, here’s my ask tag. xoxox

[keenlerblacklist]

Keenler 8.03

[alyblacklist]

So about that kiss...

I apologize for ignoring a whole bunch of asks this weekend, but I wanted to share my thoughts on that emotional, beautiful, bittersweet, angsty scene on my own terms and not in response to an ask. Because wow, it’s been a long time coming. And yes, it was worth the wait.

It is so typical of the plight of a Keenler shipper to have Ressler and Liz’s first kiss delayed 8 months by a pandemic, and then filmed only under COVID restrictions because what - we’ve only waited seven years, right? Patience is always required when it comes to Keenler and this time was (and is) no exception. 

Overall, I thought the scene was beautiful and that Megan and Diego did an incredible job conveying the message that the emotion between Ressler and Liz that led to the kiss was absolutely genuine despite Liz’s play at the end with the gun. (Something later confirmed by the show runners, but that wasn’t a confirmation I needed - I thought it was obvious from how they played the scene). Anyone who insists these two are nothing more than good friends is watching a different show than I am, for sure. I feel like this was a turning point for the writers to finally acknowledge that, and I can’t wait to see how it plays out over the rest of the season. This was the kind of moment that a lot of Keenler shippers wished for back in S3 between them before she went on the run and while I don’t think Liz “on the run” is going to last very long based on the promo pics for next week, her abandonment and betrayal of the Task Force may not be so easily resolved.  

Let’s start with the meeting. Liz texted him and asked to meet in person. Why? She could have talked to him on the phone and asked him for time. Instead, she chose to take the risk of an in-person meeting and trusted him enough that he would show up alone and without the cavalry in tow. And no, I don’t think it was for the purpose of seducing him or nabbing his gun - she had her own weapon when she was driving the transport van with Dom, she didn’t need his except to prevent him from following her. And I’m sorry, but I just have to shake my head at the idea I have seen floated by some that Liz was somehow emulating her mother in that moment as if the tale of a 15 year old forced to sleep with American soldiers somehow inspired this?  Please. I think Liz asked to meet with Ressler in person because she knew she had seriously betrayed his trust by lying to him and she knew she needed to see him in person to try to convey that. I think that’s evident in the early part of their conversation as she sees the hurt on his face and she tries to explain herself. 

I don’t think she headed into this meeting intending at all to kiss him. I loved how they built up the scene between them slowly, and I thought Megan and Diego played their characters’ emotions perfectly. In fact, it was Ressler who stepped closer to her first (and it looks like he took her arm or her hand?), pleading for her to come with him and telling her he’ll back her no matter what.

You could tell how much that meant to her, and I loved how her lip trembled as she admitted that while she still needs the favor, she also needs him to keep believing in her. Because that matters to Liz, and it always has.

In fact, her reaction reminded me of the moment in the SUV on the way to the courthouse in 3.09 (also a Cerone episode) when she reacted to him telling her that, for what it’s worth, he believes she was framed. Both times, she had tears in her eyes.

Except this time, he does too as they have that long pause before she finally leans in to kiss him.

And I loved how he gently snaked his arm around her waist to pull her closer to him during the kiss.

And afterwards, his first words are "I won’t give up on you.”  That’s it - that’s setting the stage for the rest of this season.  He meant it when he said “not on my watch” in Brothers. He’s not going to let her slip away permanently into the darkness. But at the same time, he reminds her that he still has to do his job, although you could see on his face how much that pained him. And he’s back to calling her Keen instead of Liz, despite the kiss, already putting some distance there.

And I think this is the moment where Liz decides to take the gun. Not when she first decided to kiss him, but when he reminds her that he can’t just let her go. Because she didn’t have to kiss him to get close enough to take his gun - and certainly not on the lips as she did.  Moreover, if the purpose of the kiss was purely to get the gun, she could have disarmed him mid-kiss instead of waiting. She took it only when she realized she had to in order to prevent him from coming after her - they’ve been down this road before. 

And she knows as she does so, that she has hugely broken his hard-earned trust once again as she slips away into the night. The regret is palpable on her face.

So - where do we go from here? I think the writers have set Ressler and Liz up for a lot more short term angst and eventually a beautiful reconciliation. It was so typical of The Blacklist for their first kiss to come at precisely the wrong moment, but that’s also why it happened because it finally got them to cross that line. I am curious to see if Red and Ressler work together to bring Liz back from the brink. Red knew in S3 that Ressler had feelings for Liz - I don’t think it’s going to take long for him to figure out the current lay of the land. And especially not if Dembe is in fact returning Ressler’s gun in 802. 

I’d love for Ressler for once to tell Liz how her betrayals have affected him, to really call her out and for Liz to feel what it’s like to not always have him at the ready. But I also look forward to seeing how they interact with each other now that they have both mutually acknowledged feelings that go beyond simple partnership and friendship. I have a feeling their next kiss - and there WILL be a next kiss someday - will be very different. 

And on that note, the logistics of how they performed the scene honestly did not bother me - mannequins for the close ups, and live photo doubles (or “stunt kissers” as Zee called them) for the distance shot - they did the best they could in the world what we live in right now and I thought Megan and Diego sold the scene beautifully with everything that came before and after.  Of course we’d all rather have seen Megan and Diego do the whole thing but none of that takes away from the fact that the *characters* of Liz and Ressler had a “real” kiss no matter how it was filmed, and that moment is canon. If COVID restrictions get lifted, they can go back to filming like usual. If they don’t, I’d much rather see the actors play it safe than put themselves at risk for a little extra fan service. And to those gleefully mocking the mannequin moments - all I can say is laugh away, because we both know that if it was a different ship, you’d be lighting off fireworks in celebration no matter how it was filmed.

I’m still pinching myself that we got canon Keenler in the very first episode of the season! Looking forward to more - much more - to come as it sounds like their story will be a big part of this whole season. I still believe the ultimate outcome will be a good one for them - they have endured so much and come so far. Thanks to those who made it this far.  

[toyfrog]

“Parents don’t stay angry with their children. Or their grandchildren.”

“And that's who you are to us. It doesn't matter who you were. This is who you are and who you'll always be.” “It’s like Lipstick on a pig.” Ahhh Brimley be still my heart... Sending out a hug to Lizzington fandom. This is not a “I told you so,” post that would be mean. However this *is* and *always* has been the direction of the show since season one with a surprising twist. Was the show wrong to manipulate you guys? Yes. But at this level of you think there’s any hope or prayer for a coupling you’re not going to get it. You never were. The dynamic has always been the same- Liz/Ressler the love couple: Red/Liz father/daughter it’s complicated love story. This wasSeason 2 until Eggold’s story disrupted the flow, the pace, and greedy writers room took a surgical knife and gutted solid portions of story, left characters in limbo. It sucked. “I'm not conflicted about killing you. I'm conflicted because I can't. Because I can neither kill nor trust nor forgive.” This deep freeze will go on through Season 7. Now that Agnes is returning-Liz plans to use her inadvertently to bond with Reddington... This writing team is creating new shifty characters which I do like because they don’t change the main plot line it’s still the same. Lol “I’m a sucker forLimoges.” So am I 😊 Love seeing Red negotiating. “Are you upset? Conflicted. About what? I live and work by a very strict code built on loyalty, justice, trust. I survive because I eliminate those who betray it. Up until now, no one has been spared, not even my closest associates. Not even Kate Kaplan.” This should’ve been Red’s reaction against Liz in Season 2 after he was shot and in season 3 after he discovere Liz faked her death... but there was no fallout- just Kate getting “killed” Or is she really dead?🤔 to write the wrong of this show is to bring her back! This is key dialogue so pay attention. Key dialogue.... “So that's what you're conflicted about? Whether or not to kill me because I betrayed some "code"? You can mock it because you live in a world with institutionalized codes, where order has already been imposed by powerful forces outside of yourself, where there are laws and rules for everything. I live in a world with no laws, no rules, and certainly no order. So I have to impose my own.” Task Force and Ressler and Liz will be adopting these rules because Anna McMahon and the Cabal will Be rewriting the rules. Hey. Where have you been hiding? - What do you mean? - You've been a ghost ever since I told you that I've been looking into who Reddington was. Ahhhh sweet. Not plot driven. Ressler Missing his partner-life partner lol. The more intimate details they share, the more season 3 dialogue up till end of artax network should piss you. Off. “Thought maybe you were still pissed at me.” What? No. I'm grateful. Ressler’s heart swells three sizes with her response. Her, who knew? Oh gee not me no sireee what do I know wishful thinking right? “If anything ever happened to you I’d never forgive myself.” You did what you thought was best for me. I'm grateful for that. “IF ANYTHING EVER HAPPENED TO YOU ID NEVER FORGIVE MYSELF.” What I said earlier was true. I'm grateful that you're a good friend. But, um, I'm also grateful for what you did, for telling me about my grandfather. This means Liz has the hots literally and FEELINGS forRessler.. the Ummmms will continue. “Nothing worse than when a child disappoints-like being impaled by a unicorn.” HAHAHAHAHA!!!! Glorious. Yes Liz has pissed off her Dad! Red is so so SO disappointed with her. And here comes more KEY DIALOGUE!!! [WHISPERING] I found him, and he told me about Reddington, about who he was. Wait. You You know? His name was Ilya Koslov. He and Katarina were childhood friends, and then they were in the Cabal together. Ah childhood... “But why take on Reddington's identity?” I KNOW I KNOW!!! My lips are sealed. “After the fire, after I shot my father and the world was after Katarina, the only way for her to survive was to access the funds they used to frame Reddington.” “You are going to be SO WEALTHY.” Yeah, but they couldn't do it without Reddington. Since he was already dead, Ilya Koslov brought him back to life. That's the answer that Reddington killed people to keep quiet? - I mean, why? - I don't know. SEASON 7. To protect me somehow? To protect himself. Ilya Koslov and Katarina Rostova disappeared after betraying powerful people with long memories who were willing to kill to find out information about their whereabouts. Or try to. So guess whose the next couple to betray people with long memories? Or at least be framed thanks to Anna McMahon? Reddington will so be needed and his code of NO RULES. Welcome to the CIA. A couple of weeks ago, I got the drop on some KGB mook who had heard that I was looking into Katarina.” Yeah Ressler- you in danger babe... your bae will be freaking out and blaming herself... “IF ANYTHING HAPPENED TO YOU ID NEVER FORGIVE MYSELF.” This is KEY TO THE ENTIRE MYTHOLOGY OF THE BLACKLIST. It GOES ALL THE WAY BACK TO ANSLO GARRICK. what kind of leads I had. That's why he's keeping it a secret. That's why we can't tell anyone. Yeah, but we got to tell Cooper and ARAM. Pillow talk. How sexy. Go back to Season 2 after they bumped off Alan Fitch... Whoever he was, he is Reddington. Cooper will understand that, but he might feel obliged to tell someone in the Bureau who doesn't. KEY DIALOGUE... Anna McMahon does not trust the Task Force, and she hates Reddington. She's looking for any excuse to shut us down. Perjury, breaking the law, letting fugitives go... yeah those are causes to shutdown and assasinate everyone... that dossier is the new fulcrum. THE SHOW NEEDS LEONARD CAUL FOR THIS LEG OF STORY HELLO!! You're worried that they'll void his immunity agreement. YUP THEY WILL AMONG OTHER THINGS. Once Reddington disappears that’s the mystery isn’t it? I'm pretty sure I had the right to know the truth, and I'm absolutely sure no one else does.” Yeah NO you’re wrong. Go back to Season one and you’ll recall why. An episode featuring Diane Fowler being shot in the belly—-a house blown to smithereens. Look, I get that, but is it the truth? KEY DIALOGUE. I mean, does it make sense that this is the answer he'd kill to keep quiet? This is why what happens to Ressler is essential to understanding Reddington’s secret. That so many people have died trying to find out? It's because so many people died that I gave up my child. To protect Agnes until I learned the truth. She hasn’t learned the truth so guess who will e in danger in the finale? Except not a infant this time... Am I sure I know why he guarded his secret? No. Is it possible that I'm overlooking some of the holes in the story because there's a sweetness to it? Yes, it's possible. Rose colored glasses are cute on Liz. But it's more possible that it's true. "More possible. " Ilya Koslov had motive and opportunity. If this were a crime, you'd say it was solved, and you'd believe you were right.” Don’t it words into his mouth... Ressler’s gut instinct won’t let it go and that is a good thing. IF ANYTHING HAPPENED TO YOU ID NEVER FORGIVE MYSELF.” Hang tight. Enjoy this moment where THE WRITERS ROOM ROBBED KEENLER OF THEIR BABY AND WEDDING. If you can’t see it here compared to now... You’re fooling yourself.

[kiss-my-freckle]

My 7x1 seeds

Liz’s Djinn fantasy.

Red: So I’m paralyzed. I’m paralyzed.

I wouldn't be surprised if Agnes ends up paralyzed, ending this arc the way they started. I've been predicting something striking down the center of Liz's Djinn fantasy, cutting right through Agnes.

Liz: I'm walking in a park with my husband. In between us is our little girl.

Agnes in a wheelchair would remove the focal point of her fantasy.

Liz: I'm holding her hand in mine and I never let go.

She'd be wheeling her daughter. 

Keenler wedding.

Red: Will I ever walk again?

Tom: Maybe he’ll be walking you down the aisle. Liz: Not if you’re at the other end of it.

One in the family. Back to S5 with it. 

Aram: 17 unpaid parking tickets. Liz: Well I have more than that. Aram: One scofflaw in the family is enough.

Liz: I don’t know if I can lose any more without just crawling into a fetal position or becoming a stark, raving vigilante. Tom: Listen, Reddington’s a vigilante. Alright? And I’m pretty sure there’s a one per family rule.

Keenler baby. Back to S3 with it.

Aram: First three names he swipes right on ...

Adoption Lady: At the same time, you’ll be able to look at their profiles online. Liz: And if we both swipe right, we’re hooked up for life? Adoption Lady: If you and Tom swipe right. He does have a say in this.

Walking and rolling. Back to S3 with it.

Red: I’ve been on the run half my life. I suppose now I’ll be on a walk. Or a roll. Mila: You’re a very dark man. Red: Yes, well - walking or rolling, I intend to show my gratitude by sharing with you the finest night of drinking and dining one can possibly imagine.

Tom: Alright, so let’s say we could get this done today, which I - I really don’t know if we can. It’s not gonna be perfect. Liz: But it will be a lot better than waiting a week or two and having you roll me down the aisle. Tom: If that’s what it takes, I will roll you wherever you need to go. But are you absolutely sure about this?  [Insert Stranger in 6x22]: Raymond, are you sure about this? If you’re not sure -

Danger still seeded for Agnes. 

Permanent, like Red. 

Liz: Mrs. Williams is helping me out as a favor. I need someone who’s permanent.

Liz: With me,  you are enduring, permanent. 

Ressler will be. Because he’s Agnes’ father, and very in love with Liz.  

Red & Tom kidnappings. Back to S5 with it.

Liz: He went without you? Why would he do that? Dembe: I don’t know. He’s in trouble, Elizabeth. I need your help to get him out of it.

Red: Tom is capable of getting himself both into and out of trouble. If he’s in harm’s way, I am quite certain he’s put in motion an escape plan, about which the people holding him are completely unaware.

Back to Ruin and Liz’s regret. 

Liz: The only thing that matters is that Reddington - our Reddington - is in French custody, and we have to get him back.

Liz: But from the side I’m on now, all that matters is that I’m healed and I’m back. And I’m coming for Tom’s killers.

Because Red is Katarina and Katarina is Ilya. 

Red: I may not have told you what you want, but I told you all you need. You’ll never find Rostova. The Illusionist: Ah, yes, yes, yes - because she’s an illusion. What does that mean?  [Insert Katarina, 6x19]: What does that mean? Red: She’s a figment of the collective imagination.

Because half of Rassvet is missing. Katarina came up with the idea to become Reddington. Ilya came up with the plan to become Rostova. 

Red: Some people in this world are soul mates. Katarina Rostova and I shared one. Betraying her would be like betraying myself.

100% Rederina. 

Shared soulmates and secrets. Back to S5 with it.

Red: Some people in this world are soul mates. Katarina Rostova and I shared one. Betraying her would be like betraying myself.

Tom: Secrets put people in harm’s way. Keeping them in the dark - a talent you and I share. Or shared. I’m out of that business.

Family.Business.

Gains and scripts. Back to S4 with Tom/Christopher. 

Liz: Whoever it was must’ve known we were in the dark and reached out anyway, had Briaux come to meet you. Why? What were they hoping to gain?

Tom: I just want to know, what was there to gain from me disappearing? And why was it so important that someone confess to my murder? And whoever wrote this, what could they possibly want?

Liz: How does he operate? Michael: I get a call, a character to create, a script to follow, and a boatload of money. 

Tom: She was paid in cash. Half came in the script, and half came after Game was convicted. Liz: A script?

Liz’s second memory wipe. Back to S4 with it. 

Red: And the beating? Tell me about the beating. Mila: It was a story. Red: Like Inspector Oban and the doctor. There was no surgery. Mila: No. Red: And we’re not in Paris. Mila: No.

Ressler: Keen. I found a witness who saw Hitchin’s men dispose of Reven’s body. Liz: There is no witness. Ressler: What are you talking about? I met her, okay? She told me everything. Liz: Your memory was manipulated by Dr. Bogdan Krilov. We have him in custody. Ressler: No. I know what I saw. Trust me. Liz: No, you need to trust me. The Detective who reached out to you? Ressler: Elijah Bell. Liz: There is no Elijah Bell in the Philly PD. He works with Krilov. So does your witness.

Dreams. Illusions. Figments. Make-believe. Back to S4 & S2. 

Red: Ketamine. The same tonic used to knock me out on the street. For a man your height and weight, 150 milligrams should do the trick and give you the most wonderful dreams. Or it might kill you. I’m pretty sure it’s the dreams. But I’m no doctor, and you’re no cop. Either way, I suppose pharma-karma’s a bitch.

Liz: During the raid, you were knocked out, unconscious. That’s when Krilov started to work on you, implanting memories.

♪ Take a dream on a Sunday Take a life, take a holiday Take a lie, take a dreamer ♪

Red: What happened? I can’t feel anything. Why can’t I move?

Morgan: Where am I? What’s happening? Why am I tied up?

Fake Doctor: Do you know who did this to you?

Krilov: What happened to Mr. Drucci? What? 

Red getting an epidural. Back to S3 with it. 

Red: Then why the chair? Why can’t I feel my legs? Answer me. Mila: The surgical drain in your back, it’s not to collect fluids. It’s an epidural. When we change your dressing, we’re pushing sensory and motor blockades tetracaine and bupivacaine. Red: And what happens if I don’t get the scheduled dose? Mila: If you don’t, then you walk.

Nik: As soon as I get this epidural in, you’re gonna feel a whole lot better. Liz: Okay. Nik: And we’ll be ready to go. And you get to stay awake the whole time. Liz: Really? Wow. Okay. 

Auras and coronas. Back to S4 with it. The Last Supper. 

Liz: This is who my mother is to me - an aura that surrounds me. For better or for worse, I don’t know. 

Red: I’ve lived my entire adult life surrounded by a corona of death. Some days I’ve even longed for it.

Liz: They’re in there asking them about her. Whoever took him, it’s because of her. Cooper: He’ll be okay. Liz: You don’t know that. Cooper: Apparently, Reddington died 30 years ago. He rose from the grave once. I’m pretty sure he will again.

Yes, like the second coming of Christ.

Ilyarina sold in the babysitter scene.

Liz: Who is your top choice? Mrs. Doubtfire, right?

A man dressing up as a woman so he can see his kids.

Liz: What about Hand That Rocks the Cradle?

This ends with the sitter being impaled by their white picket fence. Liz being impaled by a unicorn foreshadowed in S6 with Agnes. I've never watched The Manny, so I've no idea what that's about.

The difference between Ilya and Katarina. 

Ilya in love with Katarina.

Katarina: I don’t like this, Raymond. The whole ordeal pains me. Surely you understand that.

Katarina in love with Raymond.

Red: As much as it pains me to say it, he was probably the only man she ever really loved.

There are other small ones, but this is long enough. 

[timelessish]

Blacklist Appreciation Week, Day Two: Favorite Episode

Okay, here’s another attempt to do some (sort of) giffing. I’m still just playing around, but this is what I came up with for today :)

This was a really hard choice to make, because there are a lot of episodes I love. Anslo Garrick is incredible, and so is Luther Braxton, and The Director episodes. I also love the Pilot (such a classic), Mako Tanida, The Kingmaker, The Troll Farmer, Marvin Gerard, and some other ones like Vanessa Cruz, The Kenyon Family, Lady Ambrosia (the only episode I really loved from 3B), and The Mombasa Cartel. And I came THIS close to choosing Dr. Bogdan Krilov because it was so amazing for all the characters and definitely in the running for my favorite episode. But ultimately, I went with The Stewmaker.

The Stewmaker is the episode that, to me, really set the tone for the show. Red and Ressler working together, Liz using her profiling skills, Liz and Ressler’s tension at the beginning of the episode, the Keenler hug, Ressler impressing Red, Red’s monologue of the farmer parable - wow - before coldly killing a man right in front of Liz… this episode has it all. As an episode, it’s well plotted and well paced. It’s exciting and nerve-wracking, and it’s an episode you can’t tear your eyes away from. The acting is phenomenal, from Megan, from James, from Diego, and they’re the core trio that makes the show work for me, so I just love this episode with their dynamic on full display.

I adored seeing Liz and Ressler and Red working together again in different ways in 4C, and that’s giving me hope for a fantastic season five. Can’t wait to see where the story will go with Ressler now more firmly in the grey.

[toyfrog]

"I'm taking over the Family business."

Why yes! You are Lizzie!

“right. You can’t trust family.”

Nope, and Red’s clearly showing Dembe that hard lesson, and so are Reiter and Orci. I noticed no Daniel Cerone, Knauf, as EP’s anymore?

Did they leave when Eggold did? Just asking because this episode was a flashback to seasons 2&3!

First off, Red’s monologue to Smokey Putnam the con man in what Season 5? Yeah. Buh bye seasons 4&5. Only honorable mention is Dom as KGB but that is salvaged in season 4.

Now, notice Red warning Liz about his associate Henry Ross? The Gambler faced with insurmountable debt that got in over his head? Wound up working for The Third Estate? 99% that goes after children of the 1%?

Have we figured this one out yet?

They go after children of the 1%.

“you are going to be so wealthy.”

Red said that to Liz.

A child. A very special child that lived in a Summer Palace, remember? A child of the 1%.

Okay I’ll shut up for now.

Let’s dive in to this great filler/Lady Ambrosia styled episode like in Season 3B.

“I’m a violent man. I hurt people.”

Yes, Red certainly was killing off characters no longer associated to the original arc-nice thing too because I had no idea who Smokey was-I did not watch past Season 3.

Ah yes, and that is where the story returns- season 3A and Miss Janet- the FBI employee that Ressler saved from death from the…. Cabal…

And… Red saved and gave a new life to. We are back to Peter being tossed out of the damn airplane except this time it’s Smokey.

But let’s review. Every person that sits in that hot seat crosses Red. Aram was in the hot seat last week he embezzled the 60 million. “You are more powerful than you realize, Aram.”

No kidding if it were anyone else, he’d kill them. Dembe don’t feel so safe right now and he shouldnt-“many more will die…”

Yes, just like all those who were associated with Liz “death” Red killed every one.

Nik.

Kaplan

The guy who beat up Liz in the grocery mart.

Oh yea. Red knows *everything* and he’s going to find out about Ressler soon, putting Liz in that hot seat.

“If anything happens to you I’ll never forgive myself”

Indeed, because Ressler *will* in his nature tell Red he sent him to prison to protect Liz “because you’re an imposter.”

That showdown is too delicious.

Damn rewrites of season 3. Recall Ressler and Red in the season finale? Yeah. Opportunity and payoff lost to stupid Eggold theater showcase!

But you’re seeing that dynamic now with Ressler looking for Liz’ grandmother which will reveal a very big secret. “you can’t trust family.”

Shoot, the parallels between Moira and Liz were crisp enough to bake cookies!

Daddy did something bad…

Red is sick, remember? Who operates his empire while he’s incapacitated? Or gone?

“You’re going to be so wealthy.”

You will continue to see the episodes tumble over each other so keep your peepers out for more easter eggs.

Doesn’t Ressler look good now being able to function in the storyline they originally planned for him? Yes?

Keenler scenes…

“Liz wait….”

Ah angst. Ah a more. Ressler has got it bad but I cannot wait for Katarina or Dom to welcome Donald into the family right? Should be fun! But as the song goes- “Every breath you take. Every step you make…ill be watching you.” yeah like in Season 1. The third estate part of the cabal… Remember the guy watching Liz while married to Tom? Once you’re a target…you’re always a target that includes you too, Ressler. Enjoy the transformation. The ginger is hot again, and Liz—yeah she’ll be mad at her boo…for about five minutes because Ressler always puts Liz first-and Red knows it. Will Red threaten to kill Dembe? He could he wasn’t an original cast member keep that in mind…but I don’t think the writers should take Red that far-When he shot kaplan it was so out of character…killing Dembe would be as well Donald however…

[kiss-my-freckle]

I’ll probably do a rewatch tonight and tomorrow. 

Can’t wait to see what everyone has been up to these past ten months and what they’ll be doing over hiatus. I expect Ressler to be in deeper with Prescott. All I know is, Agnes better be walking and talking when they return.

Can’t wait for them to unpack more daddygate. It’s just a beautiful, yet very complicated father - daughter love story. Red, pretty much losing his entire family. The Takoma Park house. The fire. The Hobson’s choice. For thirty years, willing to burn the world down to protect his child. Watching this, I suppose they really wanna sell Tom as some great thing. And suppose it really is, since he’s done just as much for the Red & Liz love story, despite being an ignorant ass. I mean, Red came in saying, “Everything about me is a lie. But if anyone can give me a second chance, it’s you.” I don’t know how Red expects to get a second chance without first letting go of the lies. So far, Tom being as he is, has forced Red to face some of them with Liz. Now, I think it’s far past time for them to get to that point where Red starts telling her these truths himself. Character growth would be nice for someone who’s expecting a second chance, so let’s get on with it. 

Really interested to know how this suitcase connects Tom and Liz. Overall great episode. Really loved the woodchipper. Really loved seeing that toe tag. Really don’t wanna see a season of Liz mourning a loser, so hopefully she finds out some truths as she investigates Tom’s death. But of course, they’ll probably have Liz blaming Red for his death until the end of time. 

Love Keenler and daddygate, 100%

[kiss-my-freckle]

Ressler is competition. A certain smell fills the air of ship bubbles. Ressler did this or that, he is this or that, Keenler has no chemistry, they’re like siblings, blah fucking blah blah blah. Verbal farts filling ship bubbles. 

If this story were simply about Red and Liz, they wouldn’t bother with Cooper’s Kuwait story or Park’s Anchorage story. Can’t wait to see what complaints will follow Ressler’s story. Kaplan background. Katarina background. The writers felt them just as important to the story. Constantin and his family’s rare blood disease. Ressler’s father, brother, mother, and cousin. Let’s talk about Tommy Markin. Pull him in while we kill off Reven Wright. 

Red and Liz are the center, not the entirety. There’s a difference. 

Keenler on screen. Keenler in interview. Keenler on social media. So much Keenler, even those who never saw the ship now see the ship. OMG, did they seem flirty to you? Are they gonna hook up? What is going on between these two? Patience for the not so slow burn. I do love Keenler. And Resslington. 

I like gay Spader roles. I mean, I really like gay Spader roles .

Red shits on Ressler’s intelligence, but he also has reason to admire him. Red spoke of his admiration more than once. When you shit on Ressler, you basically shit on that which Red admires. You may not like him, but Red likes him, and I care more about his opinion because ship bubbles are what they are. Globes full of verbal farts. What happens when a ship isn’t happening. 

[timelessish]

Thoughts about the S4 finale...

**spoilers below**

So, advance warning, I wrote this during commercial breaks and I don’t have the best short term memory so I’m sure a lot is out of order and I forgot stuff I meant to include while I was watching. Oh well. Onward!

I like seeing Red playing defense. Really interesting to see his empire fall apart and how he’s reacting.

I’m glad they brought back Mako Tanida! Awesome. Fascinating dynamic between Gale and Ressler now.

Brimley and the snake, Betty. Omg. I think I snorted.

Lol, Aram. His exercise outfit is adorkable. “I can feel the endorphins!” “…you worked out for 15 minutes. Walking on a treadmill.” Then his “see, that’s why you’re good for me” - yeah, that’s him trying to rationalize dating her. But I honestly do think she is kinda good for him ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ at least she’s not like, a flat out murderer. *cough*

Also, he has no chill lmao. I’m amazed the Task Force didn’t immediately realize he was called in for a Grand Jury.

And THERE’S my beautiful Liz. She’s so poised in this scene! Love her so much. Very logical with what she’s saying, too, at least to me.

I’m really interested by this Stone place. Love the idea of a facility full of hidden top-secret government documents, and the chaos that a breach would create. Honestly, I’d love for it to pop back up at some point next season.

Cool motorcycle chase scene.

Dom! Thank you for reacting like a normal person at the news of Liz’s fake death.

The escape route via private island is pretty badass. I wonder if he’s been saving it for Liz all these years - I got a little bit of a “chosen one” vibe with the key - or if it’s just his ultimate contingency plan.

The theater is so dramatic. Gale and Kaplan teaming up… hm, I don’t like it.

I really love Red acknowledging the person that Liz is and has chosen to be, regardless of his presence in her life. That’s some good stuff right there.

Gale looks so different clean shaven, I didn’t recognize him at first.

So I’m guessing Coop’s running a DNA test on Red?

Red’s contempt when he says “Tom”, lol. That’s my constant mood.

Aw, Aram protecting the Task Force :’)

Oh snap, Janet turned him in?! I actually didn’t see that coming, but I did call that Samar would end up not telling Aram because she’s secretly a total softie and doesn’t want to hurt him. But more importantly, Aram has a pet turtle? That’s freaking adorable. And Samar remembered and fed it? So adorable.

See, it’s at times like these where I do like Saram. But the love triangle bugs me, as do Aram’s sort of double standards for Janet and Samar. Honestly, I just feel like Saram has been dragged out for far too long and the writers have never really known what they’re doing there.

Red and Ress working together!! Yes, finally!! These barrels are giving me a Debt Collector feel. HOLY SHIT, REVEN WRIGHT!

I’m loving the way everything is wrapping together. It’s definitely working for me. I also love how this finale is basically all or nothing. To paraphrase Liz from earlier, they all rise together, or fall together, and I’m digging that vibe.

Giving up Laurel… darn it. No me gusta. #JusticeForReven! And Ressler telling everyone about Tommy Markin… and Liz’s sad expression at that… I’m so emotional right now 😭

Laurel is hilarious, but I hate her. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Okay, I’m kind of in love with the idea of Laurel being a nefarious ally for the Task Force. I want that in season five.

What is Kaplan’s plan? I’m scared too, Liz!

WHAT. SHE SHOT BAZ. WHAT.

This bridge scene is intense. Strange impasse. “You need to kill me.” “I won’t.”

Aaaaand there Kaplan goes. Sadly fitting, going to the water the way Katarina supposedly did.

Oh God, Hitchen… something bad is going to happen here, I can feel it. And yep, there it is. There go my hopes and dreams for Laurel The Nefarious Ally in season 5. What do you wanna bet Ressler’s gonna bring in that cleaner guy? (I already forgot his name.)

But on another note, this struck me as a Keenler parallel because I find Keenler parallels in everything. Liz killing Connelly when he threatened her and the Task Force, Ress killing Hitchen (albeit unintentionally) when she’s manipulating him and the Task Force. I hope we get to see Ress talk to Liz about it next season!

A Saram kiss. Thank God they had a resolution for that this season. I would’ve been mad if there wasn’t. Now I just hope there’s not too much drama for them in s5. Also, Aram, buddy, my man, you better have broken up with Janet before you got smoochy with Samar. I’m giving you the benefit of the doubt here.

I’m really happy Liz did a paternity test back at the beginning. Smart cookie. But I’m also not surprised she destroyed it 😂 My first thought when Cooper brought her the report was “oh no, she’s going to rip it up and say she doesn’t want to know”, and then the audience would have to scream silently for a year.

And yeah, there’s cleaner guy. Called it.

I actually thought that was a nice Red/Liz scene. And the hug was really sweet. I’m sure some out there are heartbroken/pissed off at the father reveal, but personally, I’m not going to judge those who ship Lizzington.

Honestly, Red, what did you do to Katarina? Did you kill her?

Who’s getting the suitcase? Is it Gale?

HOLY SHIT IT’S TOM!!!!! I’M FREAKING OUT!!!!! AMAZING ENDING!!!!!

#TOMKEENFORVILLAIN2K17

So, I was all ready to be super happy about no Tom in the finale, but I’m even more happy with that ending. I’m definitely feeling like it’s a good set up to answer some unfinished questions about him and maybe get back that s1 vibe that I loved from him - is he bad? is he not? Here’s to hoping that things don’t just get glossed over next season and that his storyline is satisfactorily resolved!

I absolutely 100% loved 4C. It honestly blew me away and I am so hooked back into the show. 3B-4B had me continually losing interest, but 4C was just fantastic. More Ressler, better written Liz, understandable conflicts, and finally some answers (but of course, more questions)!

I also definitely have Keenler hope, and it makes my heart feel so full. But like, all things considered, I don’t need romance out of this show. Just keep the story interesting and consistent with understandable character development and I’ll watch.

Anyways, I’m basically in love with that finale and I definitely have more praise than criticism. I can’t believe we have to wait for next year to see what happens next! I might make a ‘loose ends’ post later because I’ve been thinking about strings left hanging from this season, but again, I was happy with what they fit into the finale. I might also do season five predictions at some point.

I really can’t wait for next season. I have a feeling it’s going to be good!

[toyfrog]

The Blacklist Falls Down The Rabbit Hole

and lost their identity.

Note to self: unfollow Blacklist from Facebook page. It is just not worth it anymore.

I made the mistake of viewing their “Rabbit hole” highlight. Of course, it features everyone but Red, because it’s all about showcasing their two new (finger quotes) leads. Apparently, showcasing Tom-for 2 years wasn’t enough. Honestly, after his face appeared, my eyes rolled back into their sockets, dreading another boilerplate featuring the over exposed, Tom Keen. The constant need to shoehorn this character into original canon simply exhausts the show. TK zaps the energy out of every scene and it’s the writers fault for lying to their viewers. They promised Tom was leaving, so, audience “tolerated” him for a third time. Then Show runner just couldn’t stop himself at TCA17, blathering on and on about how much Tom is needed.

It was like an open love letter to a sweetheart that no one wanted to hear.

We have one phrase in writing and do this during revisions. KILL YOUR DARLINGS. If character doesn’t fit your show but you love it, yet it stymies growth, KILL YOUR DARLINGS.

But they didn’t and now he’s dismantled the original theme and identity of the show. His name is such a turn off for viewers, it’s like a trigger to a bad nightmare. You don’t want to relive it you just want it to go away. Blood pressure goes up, pleasure evaporates.

So you shut it off.

I’ll be generous to a point—the scene was fine until adding Tom. He disrupted the entire flow. But now they’re over exposing Aram, showcasing him in three stories, and it’s getting tedious, almost like Aram’ story is an excuse to avoid the elephant in the room. They know it’s there, but pretend nobody sees all the subsequent destruction. 🙈🙉🙊'move on, everything is fine, lalala I can’t hear you!’

At first, rhythm and story pace remained sharp, and effective. Aram telling Ressler and Liz what to look for is classic Season 1&2 featuring Keenler as the draw. The show knows hell, they know it so well that they censor Diego’s lines in his own scenes with Liz because interpersonal dialogue for the two is now FORBIDDEN. No touching, no talking, no moon eyes, no Season 1-3A it is FORBIDDEN now.

That was mentioned in Bokenkamp’s dialogue recently…

Yeah. I’m kinda pissed and here’s why.

Liz on the phone with her fake husband during a Keenler scene without any interpersonal dialogue is like Red sitting there in the back of his Mercedes with Liz talking to Tom in front of him. That NEVER HAPPENS because it’s called an UPSTAGE. You don’t do that to an actor it’s rude! It’s different if they’re discussing a matter and phone interrupts-that happens-but not dead silence. It slows down impact of the scenes, intercutting the suspense just to push UNNECESSARY FILLER so Liz and Ressler NEVER have an interpersonal conversation. See? FORBIDDEN.

Too many isolated scenes. The cast is no longer integrated, operating like two separate shows simultaneously written with two different themes and leads. Chaos.

Dick Wolf doesn’t launch a spin off like this. My mentor John Wells never did either. You only do this to save your space in line for an actor in case the spin off fails, and it will.

There’s no spin off I don’t care what these braindead producers want people to believe. This is NOT how you launch a new show, this how you hold your original show hostage so selfish actor returns so every character is rewritten, re-shuffled, and silenced without any explanation as to why. But they expect their viewers not to notice, right?.

Fans notice, oh yes they do, and with each tiring episode, a Nielsen viewer hits their limit, and leaves. It’s not entertaining anymore, it’s boring, anti-climatic, because nothing moves. Balance is necessary for emotional connection and character growth in scenes. If audience cannot feel the characters, you’ve primarily lost your show.

They use Liz as plot to keep Tom on a show where he doesn’t fit, holding his place in line wasting everyone’s time and energy until they finally stop caring. With that painful reminder, 80% of the audience now rejects a show they once loved.

Period.

He doesn’t belong. At all. He wasn’t needed for that scene. At all. Had Liz spoke to Red instead, yes, that would’ve built intrigue to Red and the task force. A character that’s LEAVING should not be in a Lead status of story Writers! That’s why this is BS!

And to do it to Diego for 13 months and counting?

Unforgivable. That’s not business, that’s malice. Destroying audience’s emotional connection for selfish purposes just taints the entire show. The essence of what made The Blacklist so enticing to watch, was Red/Liz/Ressler dynamic and what they would do next. Now neither of these three interact, it’s just the same filler over and over.

It’s NOT THE SAME SHOW.

Ressler doesn’t speak to Red, just complains about him. That’s plot. Red doesn’t mention Donald that’s plot not character. Liz doesn’t mention Ressler unless on a case or to Tom, “Ressler told me.” That’s not realistic after last season, or even season 1, and finally, Aram now launched to third male lead, just like Tom was in Season 2.. Wow. Congrats. You *earned* it buddy. 🙄 Yay, great for Aram because he’s no threat to the Diva’s status. Hurrah—everyone has a storyline…but Ressler.

Why?

If original direction last year always was for Liz to be with Tom this garbage wouldn’t be happening. Ressler would’ve been dating the reporter, Ressler and Liz would be communicating normally, but that’s not what’s appearing. Keenler behave more like ex boyfriend and girlfriend keeping a secret from audience but are forced to work together but don’t speak, we are just to accept it and move on and hope nobody notices. Because if they shared dialogue then the show’s focus is about them and Red not Tom Keen or Liz and Tom Keen-hello! 0.90! .

This isn’t normal storytelling-it’s agenda. It’s like ordering two actors not to work together because it upsets someone’s feelings. Nothing is gained from this failed story tier. I said this back in May, June, July, and finally in Sept. If the damn Keen 2 “ship” or titantic can sail on its own, WHY then isn’t Ressler allowed to have any lines or exist beyond the failed Keen 2 pairing? His character is in wait mode to see what happens with Redemption drama?

Ressler’s now investigating Hitchen all on his own, like Liz investigated Victor Fokin murder in Season 1. Will Liz help him? Not if Diva has anything to say about it. If true to character, Ressler should go to Red offer his assistance if he helps him bring down Hitchin. That would be like Stewmaker, like The Major, like Tom Keen, like Mako Tanida- and it has nothing to do with Liz at all. See? No threat. But audience would EXPECT her to be involved because she IS the reason Reven was murdered Ressler TOLD HER "my God they’re in the White House” she did try to kill her. Ressler saved her life. Would they be true to story? It’s low bar now like the damn Trump Administration. Character driven story on this show is now an enigma. Wow. Ressler breaking protocol to investigate a closed case. But will it have a pay off? The show hasn’t had one since the Director Pt2. Do they even know what a pay off is anymore? Do they care anymore? I’ve got my doubts. Obviously, this is planned for back 6-

Diego had to wait a year and half for his own storyline to return from The Director Pt2. Eisendrath isn’t that generous. Solomon is on Redemption. He will push Ressler to ask Tom to investigate Solomon to admit Hitchin murdered Reven Wright. That’s *not* a Ressler story nor a Blacklist story-that’s a pimp Tom/Redemption story.

But fans are supposed to be grateful? They can’t trust show runner to respect and value the Ressler character because he never made any attempt to fix the mess he created last year. All he cares about is the 31 year old diva that needs another actor’s status because he can’t sell his character on his own.

This show needs a new show runner or it’s *not* going to make it. They’re spitballing stories just to get to 88 episodes, and too focused on a spinoff nobody wanted. They stepped over the audience’s concerns to get it.

0.90

Oh I’m sure it will go up some for the 9 pm time slot-but not by much. As for their spin off, I hope it fails. I never wish for writers to lose their jobs but they didn’t earn this one. They stole it, and lied to their fans for a year executing a different agenda than what they promised their viewers. Whiplash writing, zero consistency, two different agendas to story arc it’s ridiculous to have this much drama on a show-that was self inflicted. What guarantee does the show provide that audience gets their show back? Newsflash: you don’t.

You cannot trust a broken promise.

They broke it. You didn’t. Remember that, right Ressler?👇🏻.