Is the wonky logic of 'Heroes' starting to irk you?

HB Wed, Oct 3, 2007 at 04:35 PM EST

I think someone asked about how Sylar escaped when Eden came to kill him, if there were power dampeneners or whatever operating, and the answer is - she shut them off. Otherwise, how could she use her own ability?

Jen Thu, Feb 8, 2007 at 04:57 AM EST

Milo's acting seems twice as wooden because he's acting opposite Christopher "Awesome" Eccleston. He's fantastic!

Reid Wed, Feb 7, 2007 at 10:23 PM EST

Can anyone look at Mr. Muggles and not think about the scene from Superman where two of those rat/dog things are eating each other? I hope a similar fate awaits Mrs. Bennett's hairy rodent

Greg Wed, Feb 7, 2007 at 11:01 AM EST

This is my favorite show behind Lost but I couldn't agree with you more. At least with Lost you know that these subplots have a bigger meaning to the overall story. But with Heroes these subplots are just annyoing filler.

REY Wed, Feb 7, 2007 at 07:43 AM EST

Sylar's escape can be explained very easily. We do not know what other powers Sylar has stolen. He is super-smart since he took Hiro's girlfriend's powers as well.

Jaxitty Wed, Feb 7, 2007 at 06:01 AM EST

This is the first time i've ready any kind of blogging on Heros, and sadly I missed toniughts so i'll have to catch it off the website. Anyhoo.. It's a decent show that appeals to a specific dempgraphic, super hero lovers. you know who you are. And tyhose that don't? Don't log on here just to ruffle feathers. As far as i'm concerned, Heros has nothing on Lost and vice versa, the only vaugue thing they have in common is the quasi supernatural/way out there concept. Also, for those of you with some many questions about the show? Check EW's archives. Both magazine and online. After the first few ep's the creator was in an interview that answered ALOT of questions. As for current EP questions? Can't comment.

labrat Wed, Feb 7, 2007 at 12:05 AM EST

As for people mentioning "floating pretzels" and such: Didn't you notice that when Claude picks up something it disappears with him? That's why we didn't see the lady's purse floating in the air. We only saw it when Peter reappeared holding it.

kriselda jarnsaxa Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 07:08 PM EST

BTW: How many caught the license plate on Hiro's father's limo? NCC-1701. Too funny!

kriselda jarnsaxa Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 07:06 PM EST

Aramis - The show says that the fire was around 14 years ago and that "the baby" (Claire) was 18 months, making her 16 now. So Nathan would have had to have been in Texas about 16-17 years ago. Peter's 26, so Nathan is probably in his early thirties, making him in his late-teens to early-twenties at most when Claire was born. We also know that he was in the military and a LOT of basic training goes on at various bases in Texas. So, in all likelihood, Nathan joined the military either right after high school or just out of college, was trained in Texas, met Meredith (Claire's bio-mom), and voila! a daughter results.

As for her having his number, it's pretty obvious that he and his wife are still living in the same house his parents had and that he and Peter were raised in, so it could easily have the same number it had back then - or if he was at the office (it wasn't clear where he was) either a campaign office or DA's office would have a public number.

cineman Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 05:22 PM EST

If this is supposed to be a comic book come to life...then it's logic is right on track. Anyone who has read a comic book in the last 30 years will tell you, logic is not the point...

cheerleader Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 04:44 PM EST

Banana--it's b/c Claire had a stick lodged in her brain, (arguably where her power is derived, seeing as how sylar cuts off the tops of people's heads). That's the only thing that would keep her down. But with Peter, the piece went through his chest. I'm sure if it had gone through his head, it would have taken Claude pulling him off of it to regenerate.

And to whomever was asking about where Claire's mom got Nathan's phone number...information, maybe? It's not like Nathan isn't a famous politician, and because she had a past with him, I'm sure she kept up with him. So she knows he represents NYC, and calls the NYC information.

I don't really think the writers need to hold our hands throug every single scene. And that's the thing with most of the questions that are being asked, they can be explained with a bit of logic.

Sparkler Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 04:30 PM EST

Point #1, re: Niki/Jessica and her shrink: Given the shrink's behavior last episode, being adimant that Niki not wear the restraints or be drugged and calling off the guard who tried to intervene, I think it's likely she also insisted on being alone with Niki. It seems within her nature to treat her patients on a one-on-one basis.

Point #2, re: Sylar's escape: Sylar had HRG's wallet. It's likely that wallet contained an ID card (like the one Eden gave Isaac) that would give him access to the building.

Point #4, re: Peter's belief in Claude: Peter saw Claude in his dream. Plus, Peter has consistently been a character looking to attach himself to someone, to connect to others like himself. When Nathan didn't believe him, he went to Mohinder. When Mohinder didn't believe him, he found Claude. He's clinging to anyone he can at this point because he's freaked out. (And I think Milo does a kickass acting job, personally.)

Point #5, re: HRG erasing his wife's memory: Well... if he doesn't erase her memory, she'll start asking questions about the strange man with wonky powers and why he was so obsessed with Claire and why her husband (who supposedly works in a paper factory) busted through the front door with a gun. Plus, HRG is the type of guy who believes he can control every situation.

Amber Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 04:29 PM EST

Sorry Sophie, didn't see your post.

kcholt68 Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 04:29 PM EST

Not a writing rant, but dude, that obvious stunt double for Claire's mom when Syler sent her headlong into the wall unit? So lame.

And was I the only one who thought "Sylar, if you are going to kill something, please let it be Claire's mom and not the dog"?

Amber Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 04:28 PM EST

Banana,
The piece of wood was actually in Claire's brain, just FYI. Yes, I watch too much TV.

babyo Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 04:27 PM EST

In entertainment, you have to suspend your belief and allow someone’s vision to unfold

Sophie Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 04:24 PM EST

Banana-

In the episode where Claire was dead, the branch went into her brain, not her torso.

Jill Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 04:16 PM EST

None of the writing inconsistencies bother me half as much as Peter's hair. PLEASE cut that hair. Please?

Stephanie Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 04:03 PM EST

Watch. HRG used to be part of the CIA and he was head of a science experiment gone wrong that left some people with X-Men like abilities.

Banana Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 03:56 PM EST

My boyfriend pointed this one out: Peter was able to peel himself off the car after being impaled, but Claire was totally dead for a day until someone pulled out whatever got jabbed through her torso early in the season.

Eric Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 03:48 PM EST

While I agree with most of what's written here...isn't this show supposed to be a "comic book" - I'm usually willing to suspend my belief to just enjoy.

The Other Kyle Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 02:55 PM EST

I don't know how I could disagree more.

You're points are waaaaay nitpicky.

And Mr. Muggles is a hideous rat of a dog.

I have spoken.

Sarah Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 02:38 PM EST

I don't know what some people expect from show's, it's just a show it can't be perfect and always go right. If that happened then no show would last.

Green_thumb Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 02:29 PM EST

Oh... forgot one other thing no ones mentioned... What the heck did HRG shoot Sylar with that knocked him from the entry, all the way through the kitchen, and into the fridge - then in seconds he gets up and is gone! For Sylar's part, you could say its some power he absorbed. Ok, but what sort of elephant blasting (hand)gun did HRG shoot him with (that didn't in turn give him one hella-kick back?? That was almost as bad as the trailer park depiction.

Green_thumb Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 02:22 PM EST

I think Green Gummi Bear summed it up pretty well for me. All those things didn't really bother me - they were fairly easy to explain or reason out. As said, apparently the writers gave (some of) the viewers too much credit. The only thing that stuck with me was the trailer park where Claire's bio-mom lives. Let me tell ya, folks, there's not a trailer park in the US that's that clean and pretty. I mean, all they left out wer the gleaming white picket fences! That was really the most far-fetched concept of the entire episode. I'd sooner believe super-human powers really DO extist!

C Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 02:17 PM EST

Heroes? What is Heroes?

that dude Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 02:15 PM EST

My favorite is how there's an invisible guy walking around NYC bumping into people and grabbing food. people look around, see a floating pretzel and make a weird face then just continue walking. it happens everyday right!? i think those scenes are just overkill.

that dude Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 02:14 PM EST

My favorite is how there's an invisible guy walking around NYC bumping into people and grabbing food. people look around, see a floating pretzel and make a a weird face then just continue walking. it happens everyday right!? i think those scenes are just overkill.

BeLO Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 02:09 PM EST

OK let me begin by saying that Heroes is one of my favorite shows. With that said; please, PLEASE do not compare Heroes to LOST. Although LOST has many plot hole too, it does not have nearly as much as Heroes, not to mention the LOST writers are so much better. I swear I can watch an entire episode of Heroes and along the way i'll feel like I missed something in the episode because I am so confused by the end. For example, how did Hiro and Ando go from being surrounded by a mob to hiding under a car?? The was so mind boggling to me I had to rewind my DVR. Another thing is that LOST has much more interesting characters. I am very intrigued by every single character on LOST meanwhile I feel like the majority of the characters on Heroes (nikki/jessica, DL, micah, matt, isaac, simone, etc.) can be really boring sometimes. I keep watching the show that in hopes that these characters will finally meet up soon and actually do something, hopefully it's sooner than later.

Jer Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 02:01 PM EST

It's the little things for me, like...
Claire's Mom - "You can go to the museum."
Claire - "Ok. We wait 15 minutes and then go."
Having just recieved permission, why wait 15 minutes? It's the little stupid things like that that just pull me out of the show... Every episode lately...

delilah Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 01:57 PM EST

To me, the biggest question/illogical moment is how HRG got out of Sylar's cage.

Maybe I just missed the explaination?

El Franco Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 01:56 PM EST

1. a) 'cause the police think she's crazy, and b) because that's how shrinks work in TV-land

2. what unrivaled powers of escape? Sylar is a chump with powers. You just need to be ready for him or have the Haitian nearby. Have we seen any armed guards so far in HRG's (and what the heck does that mean?) lab? I don't remember any. And remember, Sylar was dead when the doctor was left alone with him. And I assume he left the paper factory through the front door like everyone else working there.

3. So George Takei could make a guest appearance

4. Cause Claude's powers are "always on" while most everyone else he has met (besides Claire) are only powered on some of the time. And he was TRYING to get with Mohinder... Claude is right there and available to mentor him. And Peter interpreted Simone's hug as a betrayal 'cause he is a wimpy little martyr who lets everyone in his life beat on him

5. A) Because protecting Claire in HRG's job and his wfe would just be in the way

El Franco Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 01:49 PM EST

-Since turning herself in to the police (for a series of violent murders in which she tore her victims to shreds), Niki/Jessica has snapped a wooden baton in half and beaten the bejesus out of at least one guard. So how come her shrink was left alone in a room with her with only a taser?

############# a) 'cause the police think she's crazy, and b) because that's how shrinks work in TV-land

- No one knows better than HRG that Sylar is a vicious murderer with unrivaled powers of escape. So how come he left that doctor dude all alone to treat Sylar? Why weren't at least two or three armed guards stationed around the clock outside his glass cell, just in case the dude returned to consciousness and tried to bust loose? And how did Sylar get out of the paper factory without triggering an alarm system that would've alerted the Haitian or some other HRG cohorts?

########## what unrivaled powers of escape? Sylar is a chump with powers. You just need to be ready for him or have

Dani Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 01:17 PM EST

I have to say I enjoy Heroes. I don't expect much from it...I just enjoy it. I can see holes in the story and easily call things like who Claire's father was going to be...it's easy to call...but I still like watching it...I don't expect every episode to be a Dan Brown novel. Without high expectations comes a lack of disappointment. When I want to watch something intelligent I watch "House" not Heroes. TV is obviously running out of things to amaze us and so I have decided to stop expecting things to amaze me. I don't think Milo's acting is bad...I think the person who writes his dialogue is bad...and it's a shame..cause his character could be great...
The truth is...every TV show competes with every other TV show and so Heroes is moving a lot faster than the storyline should so that they have something to "reveal" to us every episode...if they would just slow down and tell the story with a little more behind each event...it would be better...but it is still just season one...

Kaybar Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 01:06 PM EST

I had the same thought that "blech" expressed earlier. It's fascinating to me how Heroes fans are defending the show by saying, in effect, "don't over-analyze it". These are probably the same people who analyze Studio 60 to the Nth degree, finding fault in everything Aaron Sorkin says or does. You are absolutely right, Slezak. It's about time that someone held this show up to the same standards that we seem to demand from others. I watch and enjoy both shows because I don't bother to analyze them beyond saying "hey, it's television; who cares?".

SS Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 01:02 PM EST

One thing that bothered me last night: at the end of the show after Peter regenerates, he realizes it's due to the memory of others that he can recall their powers. So he goes through all the people he's encountered so far, Isaac, Claire, and finally Claude. Now this is where logic fails - when he remembers Claude, his hand becomes invisible. But given that Claude is standing two feet away from him, shouldn't he already be invisible? Plus, has his own body parts been invisible to himself when he was hanging around with Claude? Didn't see that before.

Fatima Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 12:55 PM EST

Also....When Fatima is president there will be swift punishment for anyone who uses the phrase "jump the shark" OH MY GOD MAKE IT STOP!

Karla Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 12:53 PM EST

I think the conflict here is not about the show, but about how to watch a show. There seems to be a camp that supports the notion: It's their show and their story, so quitcherbitchin.

But there is another camp (that more rightly belongs on a blog devoted to pop culture) which supports the notion: If you're gonna put out a show and try to make money offa me watchin' it, you'll hear my critiques.

I'm definitely in the second camp. Dude - I can't sit passively and watch something unless it's hecka good. I.E, with The Wire, I just lay back and marvel at its brilliance.

But Heroes? I sit forward and rewrite, recast, redirect, refocus, and reconceptualize. Because they aren't playing at the top of their game!

If you wanna be in the first, nonreflective, passive viewer camp, what in the heck are you doing on PopWatch?

Fatima Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 12:53 PM EST

I don't have problems with the logic yet, but I will agree with you that not only are Mohinder and Peter terrible characters, they are even WORSE actors! Milo V has got nothing going for him except pretty boy emo-bangs (something which you guys noticed earlier too). His "realization" at the end of last night's show could have been performed better by someone with a supporting role in a middle school play. He's REALLY bad.

Christopher Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 12:49 PM EST

I'm going to assume the OP actually believes the criticisms mentioned...
Nikki/Jessica: 'an elephant couldn't break those restraints'. Doctor/patient confidentiality.
Sylar: constant drugs. Sylar has walked through systems (and cops) before. They only thing that stopped him was the Haitian. No Haitian, No Peace.
Hiro: this part was a bit cliché, but it was all about saving face. As his sister said, people were talking. He allowed father and daughter to reach the sensible conclusion they couldn't alone because Dad was fixated on 'male heir' and daughter was too respectful.
Peter: he's been begging for anyone to talk about their powers with him since ep. 1. Now that he's taking the city out with him, he's not taking no for an answer.
HRG: Because he's a control freak trying to supress the next wave of human evolution?

Luke Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 12:47 PM EST

Slezak, I warmly welcome back your PopWatch blogging on Heroes. Sir, may I have another next week too?

I disagree about calling Milo Ventimiglia's and Sendhil Ramamurthy's performances wooden. Maybe I'm just distracted, because when those boys are on the screen together, I'm twice as wooden.

Chad Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 12:39 PM EST

Ugh this show is a pile of wasted potential...it's so sad really as I thought the first few episodes showed such primise...but when you have sloppy dialogue on top of a sloppy plot it just looks terrible....case in point...

"is this how you see our relationship?...like a city destroyed?"

....um...WTF...STUPIDEST line of the night....followed closely by her betrayal(?) of Peter...(really?...what a freakin crybaby)

Ray from PA Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 12:34 PM EST

I hate the way everyone says that this show should get a free pass because it's basically a tv comic book. Any comic that was this sloppily written with this many uninteresting characters would be canned after a year. Some of the best writers in the business are comic book writers, it's not just Superman saving the day in each issue anymore. And as far as comparing this to Lost, wait until Heroes is in it's third season and see if it's still the hippie lovefest that it is now. I think you'll see the that Lost held up much better over three seasons than Heroes ever will. At least Lost doesn't cram stupid taglines and terribly written characters down your throat, then try to sail on it's concept alone.

Cleo Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 12:29 PM EST

The only thing that made me go "ummmm", was how did Claire's Mom have the direct number of Nathan when they hadn't talked in years! The other stuff I just go with the flow, I have a tendency to watch a show for the love of it.

Now you want problems, watch CSI Miami LOL

blech Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 12:27 PM EST

I love it. The same people who are fans of Heroes have been slagging other television shows for months, including--inexplicably--Studio 60 and now that their show is being "criticized", they're freaking out.

Classic.

Bruno Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 12:27 PM EST

And as far as me discussing Lost or 24. I enjoy both shows a great deal. But my intention was to show that every great show can have sloppy writing. Heroes can have some stupid dialogue or silly writing, but it's still good.

I adore 24, even though this season is kinda boring compared to last season, and you could fly a 747 through some of the plot holes from last year.

Screw all this, can we start a petition to save Veronica Mars yet again? It amazes me that Veronica has yet to get an EW cover story. Now that show has great writing/acting.

Poor Kristen Bell. Turns in great work week after week and NO ONE is watching. :(

aramis Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 12:24 PM EST

I agree with you Slezak. I had the same concerns. But I think my fellow PopWatchers have done well to answering them.

My question is if Claire is 17, then her babydaddy Nathan would have to have fathered her in his late teens. Not unheard of, but when would an up-and-coming New York politician find his way to BFE, Texas?

miki Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 12:21 PM EST

Yeah I agree. The story has been pretty sloppy lately and it just seems so slow. I know things are happening but somehow the past 2 episodes seems lame like I they are trying really hard but something is still missing. I'll continue watching it though but hopefully the writing picks up cause right now its not must see for me.

rf Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 12:18 PM EST

If you're going to focus on improbabilities and plot inconsistencies in this show, then the most glaring problem has to be with the whole "list". How would Papa Suresh ever be able to get enough individual genetic data to be able to find 36 people around the world with the same genetic mutation or whatever. I like the show, but that doesn't make a lick of sense.

Bobbywombat Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 12:15 PM EST

Gosh, its a dang tv show stop overanalyzing it... just enjoy the wonder and cliffhangers that "Heroes" brings every monday.. seeing as that nothing else but crap comes out on that day.

Green Gummi Bear Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 12:10 PM EST

Not quite sure why so many people have a problem with HRG getting out of that room. They had a scene where he was banging his hands bloddy on the wall, so it wasn't like he just counted to ten, olly olly oxen free! And he didn't burst into his home alone, the Haitian was with him. So they didn't show us the Hatian thinking, "Hmmm, where's HRG?" then checking on the cell, found HRG, let him out, and they race to the house (for that is why Sylar let HRG live, so he would know Sylar is killing his family and he can do nothing about it). Not only were they giving us credit we could think for ourselves (obviously too much credit) but it would take time away from the story.

Ryan R Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:55 AM EST

You're kind of a jerk, Slezak. And apologizing ahead of time only makes things worse, not better. Lay off.

chazzy Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:55 AM EST

How did cheerleaders' dad get out of that room.

John Davis Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:53 AM EST

Seems like a lot of Lost fans are complaining about Heroes because their show has jumped the shark. 1) The shrink must have had a messiah complex and thought she could change Nikki/Jessica so she went in alone. 2) Sylar can kill people by just looking at them so if the Haitian is not there you could put 100 guys there to guard him but without the Haitian forget it. They had him drugged up for awhile so that seemed to work. Sylar's main power is figuring out how things work so learning how the alarms worked were no problem. 3) The introduction of Hiro's dad was to tie up his ties to Japan and his dad can be a financial resource if the the Heroes become a formal team down the line. Okay why am I trying to defend this so to Slezak? Shut your brain off and enjoy the show!

janine Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:52 AM EST

1) It's not important. What is important is that Linderman can have her released even after she's done that.

2) Week's of "Sylar's near death" exposition, that's why. Um, Sylar's good at manipulating technology, if you haven't noticed.

3) He thought Hiro was a weirdo and clearly trusts his daughter more (she runs 3 divisions).

4) Because Claude said something along the lines of "Jesus, your one of those." Not only did he not deny his powers, he seemed to be used to them. Peter's been hanging out with a misanthrope for at least a day.

5) Remembering won't help her weak ass do anything.

Mak Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:51 AM EST

Oh yeah Bruno, because nobody ever nitpicks 24 or Lost ever. Real mature response. "Oh yeah, well there are other shows on TV that also suck, therefore none of the criticisms of Heroes are valid!" Leave the nitpicking of Lost and 24 for when people are actually talking about Lost and 24, and if you actually love Heroes so much, defend it based on its own merits.

RedRidingHood Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:46 AM EST

I agree. Sloppy writing is one of the downfalls of another great heroic show in production right now, Smallville (of which Loeb and Beeman are vets). Like Smallville, Heroes has a great premise that when well-thought out has a ready-made audience. But sometimes, I think the writers get lazy because they know how much this premise appeals to the masses (and apparently, way more than the Smallville premise). I know it must be hard to make every episode a fantastic one, but that is what they get paid to do, and honestly, thinking through little details as mentioned here I think is a huge part of good quality writing.

JOSE Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:45 AM EST

Why only a taser? Because they still dont get that Jessica is superhuman. Why only one doctor guarding Sykar? Because aside from the dead Doctor & Eden, the Hatian, HRG - no one else knows. And besides, they built a really good cell. Why introduce Hero's father? To have the other story arcs catch up...now that we know Claire's real parents, and Nikki is out...we can give Hero his power back and move on. Why does Peter believe in Claude? Cause Claude can control his own power, and has met 'one of those'. Why erase Mama Muggles Memories? To avoid explaining himself.

Bruno Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:39 AM EST

While I liked "Buffy" Whedon's writers are overrated (Save for David Fury). We don't need "Heroes" to become a show where it's characters add a "Y" at the end of every word to make nouns turn into adjetives. Hence making them become smart asses. I like the show the way it is, and we DON'T need any of Whedon's writers to come ruin it.

Stop the worship of the Whedon Writers!

"Heroes" is fine, plot holes and all. It's not supposed to be so deep. It's a show based on Comic Books who's sole purpose is to entertain it's audience. Something that a lot of the shows like this forget to do.

If you are going to nit pick "Heroes", let's nit pick "Lost". Why is it that Kate is so bad assed, but when ever she has a gun pointed at her she turns into a wuss. Cant she disarm people? I mean she WAS a fugitive with some skills...... Or what about nit picking the plot holes of "24"?

Bruno Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:39 AM EST

While I liked "Buffy" Whedon's writers are overrated (Save for David Fury). We don't need "Heroes" to become a show where it's characters add a "Y" at the end of every word to make nouns turn into adjetives. Hence making them become smart asses. I like the show the way it is, and we DON'T need any of Whedon's writers to come ruin it.

Stop the worship of the Whedon Writers!

"Heroes" is fine, plot holes and all. It's not supposed to be so deep. It's a show based on Comic Books who's sole purpose is to entertain it's audience. Something that a lot of the shows like this forget to do.

If you are going to nit pick "Heroes", let's nit pick "Lost". Why is it that Kate is so bad assed, but when ever she has a gun pointed at her she turns into a wuss. Cant she disarm people? I mean she WAS a fugitive with some skills...... Or what about nit picking the plot holes of "24"?

jboston Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:39 AM EST

The only thing that bothered me in last night's show is why didn't Sylar kill Bennett rather than just locking him up.

Also, since the special powers seem to run in families it will be interesting to see if Hiro's father and sister have powers of their own which they are keeping secret.

Mozz Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:37 AM EST

Slezak, I had the same exact thought about Skylar being left alone with the doctor. I kept thinking... ARE THEY INSANE?! Guards! lots and lots of Guards! but nope... not a single one in sight.

Martin Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:36 AM EST

I kind of see the point: Why would Hiro's dad, a businessman, feel the need to send henchmen after his son and pull a Layer Cake on him? Makes little sense. Also, just last week Peter was convinced Claude could teach him, yet last night he's all like, "I don't have to do anything you say!" I hope they bring Nikki/Jessica and the other Heroes together soon (maybe next week from the looks of the previews). Her story line was moving along nicely and for three weeks it's been written into a corner.

Jenn Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:28 AM EST

wow. If I didn't know any better, I'd think it was my dad that wrote this blog. So picky. Looking waaaaaay too much into things.

Mak Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:23 AM EST

I didn't notice the part where Slezak said this show was moving too fast. Guess you just had to get that little jab at Lost in there. Whatever.

Kitty Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:20 AM EST

Awwww. Sweet Slezak. I love ya. You make me laugh out loud far more than any on-line columnist should. But I think you are being too picky this time. The show has a comic book feel to it. I think the writing mirrors that. Also I think its funny that people complain that a show like Lost takes forever to reveal things and now complain that this show is moving too fast. Can't win I guess. But think of it this way, the show is about people with super powers, I think we have already taken the leap of faith with reality based plot lines. If we can believe Hiro can stop time, why not believe his father is convinced quickly. Would you rather it take about 4 episodes and have the same result? Keep up the good work, love me some Pop Watch.

Thataboy Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:20 AM EST

Honestly, this show is lazily written and devoid of any wit, irony and insight. I appreciate good fluff TV, but there are thousands of struggling writers who could make this a better show.

It truly seems that the show is written by 14 year olds. Hire some of Whedon's writers, for the love of god!

Chuck Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:19 AM EST

Absolutely. The overall epic story appears intact, and seems strong. The day-to-day (read: each episode) stories are riddled with lazy writing. It's like the writers simply hope that the general coolness of the premise will gloss over the erring lapses in logic and narrative. Uh-uh. I wouldn't let that kind of thing slide in a comic book, and I don't care for it in my TV shows, either.

Andy Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:18 AM EST

More than being bugged by the plot inconsistencies, I'm just annoyed with the cheesy, unrealistic dialogue. I'm willing to overlook it for now, but they really need to work on the writing.

Bonnie Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:18 AM EST

I gotta say while I do love the show some of the points you mentioned above were bothering me.. in particular I just dont get why peter knew this guy could help him? how .. please heroes enlighten me...and umm nikki got to go home after assulting a police officer and a shrink? cause Im pretty sure you get in trouble for that these days.. even without the murder charges shed either be in jail for the assaults/attempted murder on the shrink or in a mental hospital

AJH Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:14 AM EST

Thank you, Slezak, for saying what needed to be said about Heroes. I do find in enjoyable, but it is nowhere great. Sloppy writing... Wooden acting... Mediocre production values... Thankfully, LOST returns tomorrow!!!

Yipeeyikes Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:03 AM EST

The shortcuts continue this week and continue to frustrate. After last week's Hiro and Ando go from surrounded by baddies to lying under the car undetected, now we get HRG escaping his own cell to save the day... how exactly? If Sylar couldn't get out - and he commented on how well build that box was - suddenly HRG just cavalry's in... (Perhaps the Haitian had a key.) Love the show, but the leaps of logic get to be a bit much.

Anthony Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 11:01 AM EST

I understand everything that you are trying to point out but if you really think about it isn't every TV show a little far-fethced- I mean if it wasnt't then it would be real life. The fact that their are alot of inconsistencies makes it TV and I think what everyone should remember is that this show is not real and that it is only TV. I do agree that Peter needs to learn how to act. I mean he is not horrible but his facial emoitions suck and that is one of the most important crafts to acting is facial expressions!
Heroes has become my favorite new show and I am happy where they are going with the show. A little more consistency would be better but then again if that was the case you would have nothing to complain about and would be out of a job.

potatobiker Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 10:59 AM EST

This show is very good, but could be so much better. Just having people "be convinced" of what to do with no actual reasons to know why is lazy. All the questions you asked in the article...exactly the stuff I've been complaining about lately. Come on Heroes! You can do better! (So can House!)

Nose Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 10:57 AM EST

My two cents:
-The 80s Oprah shrink seemed pretty confident that she was totally in charge of the situation..cocky even. That's probably why she was alone.
-Ditto for HRG. He seemed to think he had everything under control, that he had planned for everything. he was wrong.
-I am hoping we haven't seen the last of Sulu, because that was kind of dumb. Although I liked Hiro trying to portray an executive type to try and fool Sulu. He is the cutest thing ever.
-Peter is desperately searching for answers, so latched on to someone who seemed to know what was going on. And leave Milo alone!
-Mrs. HRG has been out of the loop for so long it doesn't make sense to change the game plan now.
I am not so sure believing any of the above situations is that far outside of the realm of possibility. But, then again, maybe I am way off. And, I will make my weekly plea to PLEASE give Greg Grunberg something to do in this show! The scenes with him and his wife make me want to gag.

JC Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 10:56 AM EST

First off, HRG doesn't want his wife to remember Sylar because SHE SAW HIS POWERS. duh. Hiro's dad is obviously not going to go away. My theory is he's in cahoots with Linderman somehow. Peter is completely overwhelmed right now, of course he's going to take Simone/Isaac snuggling as a betrayal, esp. since Claude kept telling him to not trust anyone. Peter is going along with Claude because it's obvious Claude has mastered his powers for a long time, something that isn't true for anyone else Peter has met. Hence, he thinks he needs him. Jessica's shrink was just stupid. P.S. I thought last night was a great episode with really funny lines (i.e. Mrs. Bennett almost outing HRG's first name; Claude ridiculing Peter for his bangs, etc.)

Jannie Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 10:56 AM EST

I have to agree there are inconsistencies, but you can say that about any TV show, even the greatest, like Heroes. I was struck by the Hidden messages and themes in this episode. A lot are in a blog I like at http://Heroes-spoilers.blogspot.com/ where they discussed the particularly interesting, but not fully revealed relationships amongst the first generation of Heroes. Without giving it away, what do HRG and Nathan flying dad of Claire have together ...

Stacey Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 10:49 AM EST

Um, Claire's father didn't want his wife to know about Claire's special powers. Or anything to do with what he really does. Which is why keeps mind-warping his wife. Although I suspect she's starting to reject it. Overall, I don't overthink the writing. All shows has lapses. I just love the show. With Peter, and Invisible Man. I think Peter sees someone who knows what is going on. Everyone else doesn't. They are still mystified. Peter is still adjusting to it all. So his behaviour isn't surprising. All in all, I am enjoying the show. With Nikki, they obviously had the influence of Linderman to get Nikki out. It wasn't what she wanted. At least you get answers with HEROES when you watch, sooner then you do with LOST. Heroes keeps it exciting. That is why I enjoy it.

Louise Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 10:48 AM EST

I'm choosing to be blissfully ignorant of all the inconsistencies.

melissa Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 10:44 AM EST

None of those questions bug me.

Green Gummi Bear Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 10:42 AM EST

Hmmm...interesting point to bring up on the TV watch about the scar...

Matty Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 10:41 AM EST

Maybe the doctor was left alone with Sylar because they thought he was DEAD. Makes sense to me. How is any regular security system going to hold Sylar in anyway? And what good would it do Mrs. Bennet if she knew what Sylar looked like? It's not like she could do anything about his presence. Also, I could have sworn Mrs. Bennet referred to her husband as Lyle when talking to Sylar.

steve Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 10:35 AM EST

If Peter can heal himself now aka Claire, why did Hiro from the future say to him on the subway train last year, "You look different without your scar"

sarg Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 10:31 AM EST

anyone in therapy of their own accord (like nikki) with a doc who wanted to actually help would not have a bunch of guards standing around while she confesses her deepest and darkest...

and if HRG is just working in a paper factory and nothing strange is happening (like that week when the FBI raided and found absolutely nothing) then of course there would be no sensors or alarms or anything

i'm more curious as to why jessica hasn't just knocked down the walls of the cell and taken off, seems like she could do that and also honestly, would they really let you not put your first name on a drivers liscense? cuz HRG's wasn't on there, even his signature was just bennett...

Valhum Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 10:30 AM EST

Oh i agree, Mohinder is just too damn dreamy to care how he acts, hahaha.

Anyways, i really see the points made but i don't pay that much attention to them. The only one that really bothered me was why Hiro's father kidnapped them just to tell him to go back to work, lol.

Anyway, LOVE the show :oD

Vicky Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 10:28 AM EST

The shrink mentioned that Niki/Jessica was tied up in chains that could hold an elephant. I guess that's suppose to explain why they were in a room alone together with just a taser. She broke through those pretty quick though. Anyhoo, I wasn't a big fan of the Hiro's dad storyline. Seemed kinda pointless. Is he suppose to come back sometime this season?

CCGUY Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 10:27 AM EST

Um- Why was Nikki let out of jail? Um, yeah she was quitted of murder charges but delivering a beatdown to a few cops and a pyschiatrist is also an offense that will put you in jail for awhile. Or how about a mental ward?

QueenElessar Tue, Feb 6, 2007 at 10:27 AM EST

Stop the Mohinder hating! Anyone that dreamy deserves a free pass! Yes...I know that's girly and lames...but he makes me melt ;).

And he's not THAT boring. I think if they really get his plotline off the ground he can be key in brining people together and helping them discover their potential