'Lost': Rescue me

I'm sure most viewers saw the twist behind Jack's bloated flash-forward coming half an hour into the episode, but it did shed light on one key bit of information: Life off the island ain't grand. At least not for Jack.

And that's only important because it makes me that much more interested in Ben (who I still mistakenly call Henry every now and then because I preferred the mystique back when that was his name.) Sure, he's a murderous, lying tyrant. But maybe the guy has a point. Maybe leaving the island isn't the way to go.

Other than that, Tuesday's finale kept deflating the suspense as soon as it had built some up. And, of course, we're left with more questions than we got answers. This time, however, that was OK.

In his review of the finale, Times TV Critic Robert Lloyd said that on a good night, "Lost" still has the ability to be one helluva a joy ride, calling it "foolish" at this point to expect answers no matter how much the producers want you to believe otherwise (evidenced in the creation of multiple one-hour specials aimed at doing just that a la last night's "The Answers.")

Last night wasn't an entirely "good night" -- again, a disproportionately high number of new questions than answers -- but several cast members who had become tiresome are finally getting some meaty things to do.

Sawyer, for example, has changed since strangling Locke's father. He's pushed Kate away. He called people by their first names now. Most important, he killed Tom, the Other who surrendered, without hesitation.

The Locke-vs-Jack showdown put Locke on seemingly permanent break with the survivors. Is he ever going to explain himself? Did Walt tell him what Ben knows? (There I go with the questions again.)

The Others also have been dilapidated, a move that sent some of the semi-recognizable faces we'd come to know since the first season packing. (Tom may be dead, for instance, but the man who coaxed Juliet to the island is still alive.)

A less promising theory: The island really is magical. Locke somehow survived a bullet wound to the gullet for and lived to tell about it a day later after he climbed out of a ditch at the behest of an older, taller Walt. (Yes, the same Walt who appeared to Shannon soaking wet before she died). One-eyed Mikhail also seemed to have regenerative powers a la "Heroes" cheerleader Claire. The man just won't die.

He succeeded in taking out Charlie in a moment that turned out rather poignant even if it was three seasons in the making.

But I'm hoping rescue, in whatever form it takes, is still far away and that Jack's SOS call was a bad move. It probably is. We know the survivors have a while longer on the island; ABC has already confirmed the show will keep rolling through three more seasons. All I can hope for now is that season four starts out with Jack smacking his forehead and saying "Arrested Development"-style: "I've made a huge mistake."

(Photo courtesy ABC)

Comments

[DS9Sisko]

Denise,

After reading review after review of yours regarding "Lost," I( have come to the firm and unshakable conclusion that you do not like this show. At all. Sometimes, it's hard to discern if you actually watch the episodes.

Proof? Not one word about the moving sacrifice of "Charlie," the hysterical way Danielle and Alex were finally united, Hurley's fantastic rescue, the unstoppable Mikhail Bukanin, or the many other mysteries that JAck's flash forawrd posed for us.

And although I do not share the criticism that "Lost" has been off track this season, it is undeniable that since "Not in Portland" the show has been on a roll, answering questions right left and sideways. That you don't seem to know that is really more of your problem than that of the producers or writers.

Plus, outside of the spoilers that were posted to the web recently, I do not know of anyone who really "saw" the complete scope of that breathtaking cliffhanger coming.

Sure, there are people who did not like the finale. They, and you, have that right. But as the show tracker for "Lost" you should at least do your readers the service of actually paying attention instead of the nonstop whining that has become your stock and trade regarding the show.

[Naji]

I agree.

It seems as though Denise is the type who goes into every episode with that pessimistic point of view feeling the pressure that it is easier to criticize a show than praise it. If you look for things not to like, you surely will find them. If you have such a problem with all the questions being asked, and not being answered, then stop watching the show! The show's thriving force is its mystery, so why would we want to lose that?

[Brother]

I agree as well, and I'm not sure why the Lost 'Show Tracker' blog even exists as written by Denise.

Clearly, anyone who's seeking out blog content about Lost is looking to extend their understanding and enjoyment of the show, rather than listen to someone constantly sh*t on the show and avoid delving into any meaninful analysis.

So, what's the point? Denise, whoever has assigned you to this is wasting your time, and ours.

[SAMUEL TIOLUWANIMI]

It is not a must to blog on all tv shows. Your knowledge of this show is very embarassing. You need to come out and tell your employers the truth: i.e you were busy watching American Idol useless 2 hour show when you should be working. Hey truth is bitter but say it!

I usually read Washpost blogging on Lost and read LAtimes blog on American Idols. Every one have got their own niche...you've lost it!

[Echo]

Wow, these other comments are REALLY off base. God forbid that you should have your own opinion on a show. In an era where the Michael Ausiellos and Kristin Veitchs of the world are "bought off" by producers through exclusive visits to sets and cameos on TV shows (which for me, crosses the line between journalism and fandom), your unbiased perspective is much appreciated. Keep up the independence!

[Dan Wilcox]

Did we watch the same episode of "Lost?" I thought it was excellent and kept the chills coming. My only complaint was loosing Charlie. He has always been my favorite character. But maybe Pam Ewing will wake up, hear the shower running and.......Naw.