Venice: Episode 212 - December 29, 2010 (Season Finale)

It's the season finale. This makes me sad

Sami is trying to call Owen but he's not picking up. He is however about to have sex with a girl he's got laying over a table. Unless he's filming something, but I doubt it. Sami leaves a message telling Owen that she diesn't know what is going on with him but that she wants to and to call her. I actually feel for and like Sami here. I don't trust her yet, but I do feel for her. She picks up the Hippo that Owen gave her as tears roll down her face. :(

The Colonel is working on his hand exercises. Gina tells The Colonel that he can have a cheeseburger as a treat after he finished his exercises. He pulls the letter she wrote to Ani out of her bag and takes it with him on his exercises. Seriously a huge step for him. You could see his internal struggle last season hurting over the fact that he couldn't accept Gina being gay. Now he's had so much time with her in a setting where she isn't his adversary on personal issues, but on health issues and with all of the pretense gone he can see her again like he used to before Katie died. He accepts now that Gina isn't some thing that he has to control or command, that she's her own person and a really great one at that. He is her dad and he doesn't like seeing her hurting so much. I've always loved Jordan, and he's amazing in this role.

Ani is sitting up in bed either reading or thinking, I can't actually see if she's got a book in her lap or not, when Lara wakes up. Probably thinking. If she does have a book she's not focused on it. Lara is facing away from her and starts talking, "Hey." Ah, Ani picked at invisible lint on her pajama pants. So, no book. I wonder how long she's been up because she's been doing some serious heavy thinking. Lara, "I don't know what to say...about last night. I know that I was out of control, and uh. I know that 'I'm sorry' is not enough." Ani is listening but doesn't say anything. Lara continues, "...and please know that I would never intentionally hurt you, okay. Please know..." Ani says, "I don't know anything anymore." and gets out of bed., This scene is brilliant because they never look at each other. Even though Lara turns her head in an attempt to pick up on some reaction from Ani, she doesn't turn enough to see her. Ani doesn't even glance her way. Lara is ashamed of her behavior, but I'm not sure that she fully understands the consequences of her actions or can truly be sorry for them and not just the situation in which she's found herself. She turns enough to see that Ani has gone then faces forward again and cries in self pity not because of the hurt she's caused Ani.

Van tells Sami that Owen got fired weeks ago from the film. Now see if he was working last night and not just engaging in some comfort sex from a random woman then Van has just made things soooo much worse. Yep, he's not a cool guy. :(


Gina has finished cooking the cheeseburger but can't find her dad. She can't even see him from the front door. Maybe he's behind one of the big trucks that the neighbors don't like. ;P

Michelle gets a call from Alan who has gotten the sketches. I don't know what he says, but Michelle says "Shit."

Sami catches up with Owen on the beach. She asks him where he's been and he says that he saw her kissing Van. She confronts him about the movie. She figures out that Van told her. Sami tells him that Van was kissing her and that she pulled away but that she doesn't know what she's feeling now. Owen apologizes, but Sami says, "Thank you for thinking the worst of me" and that they need a break and walks off.

Van is smuggly drinking on a patio somewhere. I think he's at Guya's.

Wow! Ani hit that wall a lot harder last night than it looks. She's looking at her bruised face in the bathroom mirror when Lara comes up behind her teary eyed and apologetic. She wraps her arms around Ani from behind and Ani doesn't resist, but she doesn't lean into her either. They have the conversation through the mirror. Ani says, "I know you didn't mean for this to happen, but it did." Lara says that she's sorry. Ani replies, "I love you. I do, but you need help." She's watching Lara in the mirror and when Lara's voice break on "I promise" you can see the struggle in Ani's eyes for a split second. She doesn't like seeing Lara hurt, but she can't let her off the hook and wrap her arms around her and tell that it's going to be okay. It still seems to me that Lara is more sorry and scared of Ani leaving than she is of what she did to Ani. Ani allows herself to lean into Lara and a single tear rolls down her cheek. Seriously Jessica!

The Colonel is walking to the neighborhood mailboxes. That's why Gina couldn't see him from the porch. He mails her letter to Ani, "Okay young girl. Okay." It's like he's saying, if this is what my baby wants then I'm okay with that. Aaawwwww!

Ooooo Amber is back at Guya's and she is not happy. She keeps screaming "You owe me!" Guya says that she's given her her money back and Amber says that Guya was supposed to be her best friend for life. Guya looks down and sees little flowers painted on Amber's finger nails and says, "Katie" Amber screams "Why did you do this to me?"

Yep. That's the end of the season folks. Sooooo is Guya seeing Katie in Amber or is Amber a manifestation of Guya's guilt? Hopefully we'll find out more in season three. No word on filming dates yet.

Venice: Episode 211 - December 22, 2010

Ani is waiting for Lara to get up. Lara says that it was a nice party. Ani says that it was until the end. She says that she's not a jealous girlfriend or anything but that it's not okay to see her all over Jess at the end of the night. Lara doesn't know what Ani's talking about. Ani asks her if she even remembers the end of the night because she was "a little drunk" Oh, Ani sweetie. She couldn't stand up on her own, that's more than "a little drunk". Lara says that she remembers everything. Ani calls her on it saying that she and Gina "had to haul your ass home because you were completely out of it." Ani brings up that she knows that Lara's under pressure. Lara slams her hands on the table and yells that she doesn't need more from Ani. Ani immediately goes into herself and gets this detached far-away look like she's watching what's going on between them but she's not a part of it. I am very familiar with that look. Ani has been in this situation before. She's got some back story I'd love to see explored! It's emotionally abusive even if indirectly. And then she says it. She's getting more and more freaked out and doesn't know if she can do it. Lara calls to Ani not to leave, but Ani keeps going out the door. She's right to do it. If she stays she'll get emotionally manipulated or she'll say something that she'll regret later. She needs to process away form the situation. Nadia and Jessica both do an excellent job here.

Owen is at Guya's and when she asks him about work he tells her that the director's nephew took his role. Yay to Owen for opening up to family. :) Owen tells Guya that he wants to have a future with Sami but that he can't let her be friends with Van. Guya tells Owen to not let Van get in his way. That is Sami loves Owen then she will forgive him for lying about work.

Gina covers a sleeping Colonel then reads a letter that she wrote to Ani telling her that she's ready now to love her but that she knows that she's happy with Lara. It's a long beautiful letter and Gina's crying by the end. She says in the letter that she'll probably never send it, but she puts it in an envelope and seals it with a kiss. Unbeknownst to her, The Colonel is awake and was listening to her read the letter. This stroke has allowed him to sit back and observe and forced him to not be in control. It's changed him for the better.

Van kisses Sami and she pushes him aware. Owen sees the kiss, but not the rebuff.

Lara is at High Bar drowning her publishing deal loss in bloody marys.

Ani and Gina are on the beach. Ani notices when Gina refers to The Colonel as her dad. It's sweet. :) Ani tells Gina that she and Lara fought. That maybe she's being gun shy after her relationship with.... Gina says, "With me." and assures her that it's okay. She asks Ani what she wants to to. Ani wants her to be okay and Gina tells her that it will be tough but that she'll need to stick by Lara if she wants to help her.

Jamie called a car for Lara and helps her to it to get her home.

Guya is upset and Brandon comes up to comfort her. She had a nightmare last night and started crying when he tried to wake her. I'm glad that he's there to be attentive and help her. He's just what she didn't realize that she needed.

Gina tells The Colonel that "his friend's death was an accident" that it was an aneurysm and she thought he'd like to know. He thanks her. Sweet!

Ani goes to Lara's and finds her lying on the couch drinking. Lara says that she's all talked out and Ani tells her that she knows about the missed deadlines. Lara is upset that Ani read her e-mails. Ani says that she understands the pressure that she was under now. Lara is melting down and Ani is right there for her. Lara says that she expects perfection. Ani says that she knows that but that she thought Lara wanted 'them' too. Ani hugs Lara then Lara freaks and pushes Ani who hits a wall head first. Ani slides tot he floor crying but not injured and Lara is in shock and starts apologizing and crying and leans into Ani. Ani seems to make a decision before putting her hand on Lara's head to calm her.
Ani is going to kill me having to watch her try and be there for Lara.


Another powerful episode with phenomenal performances!

Venice: Episode 210 - December 15, 2010

Owen tells Sami they should go to a movie. She says they should go to The Colonel's and give Gina a break. He says that they should take Gina with them to the movies. He talks about how The Colonel shut down after Katie died. Sami says that maybe it was his way of coping.

Michelle just totally put Gina's name on her own designs. Michelle isn't relaying Alan's messages either because she doesn't wants to bother Gina or she's trying to 'All About Eve' her.

At Ani's party Lara gives a toast and thanks Gina for hosting. Gina is a bit sad seeing Lara and Ani kiss.

Lara and Ani are talking to Michelle. Lara goes to get a refill and Ani and Michelle decline. When Gina comes to sit, Michelle excuses herself (to give Ani and GIna privacy I'm sure). Ani says, "Everyone always leaves." Seriously, Jessica plays Ani so completely adorably! Gina tells her how proud she is and how happy she is for her. Ani tells her that everything is perfect and thanks her. Lara is watching and doesn't look to happy.

Katherine is at the party and sees Guya, then sees a couple of younger women walk by.

Guya tells GIna that Brandon was late because he was working on a case. She says that he found a dead body recently and that she had a very unique ankle bracelet. He says that she probably died of an anuerysm and that she was found in a funeral home. Gina and Jamie are a bit nervous. They go off to the side to discuss it. Gina asks why he took her to a funeral home. He says that she was going to end up there anyway and that he's never doen this before. She asks him how he got her there and we see a flashback. Jamie has the body on her back, legs in the air on a two-wheeler dolly still covered in the red fabric. He's rolling her down the street whimpering, "Oh my god" then yelling, "Why!" so not the calm and collected man that cleaned the living room earlier that night. He tells Gina not to worry that he has her covered.

Gina goes up to Michelle and asks her how she is. Michelle says that she's fine and that she's not staying long. Gina says that she'll be back in the office soon. Michelle seems really upset and distracted. Gina meets Drew who is a fan of her designs. Jamie says that Drew is a rocket scientist.

Gina goes over to Guya who informs her that she's losing her touch and is upset. Gina says that she has a serious gift, Guya says that it doesn't always work. She thinks she see Amber and goes over to the side of the house but she's not there.

Gina asks Jess how Tracy is doing Jess says that she'll be fine.

Lara is drunk and falls into the pool. Ani is completely embarassed. Jess makes a comment about some people having too much fun and Gina looks at her defensive of the rude remark and it's implications for Ani. Gina tells Ani that she'll help her get Lara home. Ani says that Lara just doesn't handle stress well. Gina knows what's going on and says, "Something like that sweetheart." They get Lara out of the pool and home. Gina sees a picture of Ani and Lara at Lara's and teary-eyed acknowledges to herself that Ani is where she's supposed to be. She gets up and sees an old shirt of Ani's calling out, "Ani, you still have this old thing?" She's holding it to her face and taking in the smell when Ani comes back into the room and sees her. They share a look and sadly smile over the past and what could have been.
Such a beautiful scene again.
Crystal and Jessica

Venice: Episode 209 - December 8, 2010

Ani comes into Lara's house the next morning finding the door open with the keys still inside and Lara passed out on the couch still in yesterday's clothes. Ani is not happy right off the bat. You can tell by her expression that she knows what she's going to find and why the door was open, but after she sees Lara a little fire flickers in her eyes. She's beyond miffed. She's angry. I do not envy Lara right about now. Ani just goes up to her, rubs her back and covers her up with a blanket. She then sits on the coffee table and thinks about what she's doing, her place in the relationship.

The Colonel is eating but is giving Gina a hard time. Owen calls and Gina asks him if he's between takes. Apparently he's on set.

Amber shows up at Guya's and Guya tells her that she doesn't have an appointment. Amber begs her to help and Guya agrees to try again.

Jamie runs into Owen and can tell that something is wrong. Owen tells him that he lost the movie weeks ago. I kind of figured he wasn't really on a set when he was talking to Gina. Harrison has pretty eyes. Jamie encourages him to tell his family. Owen says that he's been lying to Sami. Hmm. What about?

Gina tries to get The Colonel to go out for a walk. He asks her what she's doing there instead of living her own life. He asks her if she's between women. She asks if he really wants to have this conversation. He seems genuinely interested. She tells him that she's not between women. That she has recently realized that's she's in love with someone. Someone who is so special that she didn't feel worthy when they were together and that the other woman has moved on and is happy and that now they have a friendship that she cherishes and that she accepts that she'll just have to love her from a distance. Such a touching scene! Bravo to Jordan and Crystal!

Alan calls Michelle because he doesn't have Gina's designs yet. He says that either Michelle isn't relaying his messages or Gina is ignoring them. He give them 24 hours to get the designs to him. Michelle says that Gina will be there.

Sami is on the beach and Van walks up. He says that he's trying to decide whether to keep a secret from a friend. She tells him to take time and consider it, but that he should tell.

Guya and Owen and Gina are relaxing. Guya's cute guy is named Brandon. Gina tells Guya and Owen about running into Richard. Owen asks if she's going to tell him that she's gay. Guya didn't know that she hadn't told him. Guya asks about The Colonel, Gina decides to play a game 'If I were an asshole' in which they get to talk about people without fear of retribution or guilt. Guya says that she would take The Colonel to a strip club leaving him with only his military ID. That hits a little close to home for Gina since that's almost what happened with the hooker (that Owen and Guya don't know about).. Owen mentions the football and it brings Gina to his rehab. Gina tells Owen that he should show up to visit soon. She's really reforming that bond with The Colonel that she's tried to hold onto in spite of herself for all these years. Love it!

Guya is reading her diary. She's reading about the concert and the trip home and that she was busy focusing on Van when she accidentally hit Katie's hand and spilled hot coffee on her causing them to crash into a tree. She breaks down apologizing for killing Katie. No wonder this time of year is hard on her. Guya is carrying around so much guilt and I bet that she's never shared that with another person. That also explains why Van felt slighted (if indeed his story is true) when Guya became over attentive to Owen and Gina out of guilt.

Wow. I so did not see that one coming. Great job from everyone!

Venice: Episode 208 - December 1, 2010

Owen is calling Sami. He went by her place last night and she wasn't there. He's still not happy about Van or leaving voice mails for Sami. Van is secretly following Owen. Hmmm some thing's fishy.

Gina comes down stairs wearing a t-shirt that says "Own It". Awesome! She tries to get The Colonel to exercise by stealing his prized autographed football. He doesn't follow her out the door. :(

Amber comes to Guya again. She's been wandering Venice Beach for years and is lost. Guya has her touch the cards then tries to read her and sees a flowers and a long winding road. She tells Amber that she's in a bad place that she's trapped. Amber screams "Just tell me the truth!" Excellent scene from Liz and Hillary! I can't wait to find out what's up. Is Amber a ghost? She's so distraught. :(

Lara and Jamie and Drew are hanging out and drinking when Lara gets a phone call from Ani. She tells her that she's finished her pages for the morning and was just taking a break before starting back in again. She told Ani that she's not sure about dinner that she'll probably stay at the house and write. Why do I get the feeling that she's avoiding Ani? Jamie asks her about the book and she tells him that she's a little behind. He asks why she didn't tell that to Ani. Lara says that she wouldn't understand. Jamie says that she would. Lara changes the subject and they toast.

Van is at Sami's and they're discussing Owen. Van is telling Sami that he resented Owen because Jane spent so much time raising Owen and Gina after Katie died and he felt left out. She believes him and tells him to stay.

Gina has a football tee set up in the street and sets the ball into it as The Colonel comes out of the house. He walks to the middle of the street and bends down and grabs the ball. Gina is so excited that she does a rather involved happy dance in the middle of the street then shouts "Score!" as The Colonel walks back inside with his football. It's so cute and I'm excited for her because of the huge step and progression that single act signifies in The Colonel's recovery. Gina needs a hug for that clever little move! :) Loving this scene from Crystal so much.

Ani is a High Bar and Jamie comes up asking if she finished early. Ani says that she had a very early sunrise shoot and is done. Now she's waiting for Gina so they can go over some last minute plans for her party. Gina shows up and has a drink waiting for her. She shares her football taunting story with Ani and then they move on to party planning. Gina wants coconut shrimp on a stick and Ani wants pigs in a blanket. Gina tells her, "No." and Ani says, "But I love them." Sooooooooo cute! Gina tells her that pigs in blankets say 'tail-gate' and that Lara was thinking more along the lines of caviar. Ani says that she still want little hot dogs and isn't it her party? Right you are Ani! Gina says, "Apparently not. I'm sorry." So Lara is the one controlling this party that Gina is hosting for Ani? She seems to be awfully controlling for someone who isn't at the meeting because she's blowing off writing and lying to Ani about it. Ani says that she has no business eating any of that stuff anyway. :( Gina asks what she's talking about. Ani says, "You know me. I'm just feeling a little self conscious about my body." Gina tells her that she's got to stop that and Ani start telling her that Lara eats whatever she wants and doesn't work out and look at her body. She says that she and Lara were dancing the other night and all she could think was, "Please...don't touch my love handles." Gina looks heartbroken and catches Ani's eyes and with perfect honesty says, "You are the most beautiful woman I have ever met. So stop it. Stop it." Ani says, "You're biased." Then she brushes it off saying that she's back to yoga and boot camp and that should help. Gina looks so sad. Ani says that she loves that song that's playing. Gina asks her to dance with her. The song is Kyler England's 'Clean Slate'. They are dancing and Ani has a look that says that she's feeling so many emotions is not anywhere near over Gina. Gina has a similar expression. She just wants to do anything she can to make sure Ani is happy. Such a beautiful and heart warming/breaking scene. Crystal and Jessica are perfect in this scene! So much emotion and trepidation. Just beautiful.

Owen and Sami discuss Van.

Ani is at Lara's and an e-mail pops up on the laptop on the counter. Ani opens the e-mail and read it. It's from Lara's publisher saying that she's missed another deadline, that she can't cover for her anymore and that they are thinking of pulling the book deal. Ani is worried and wonders what Lara's been doing and where she is now. Have I mentioned how much Jessica rocks?

Lara is apparently passed out in her car with a flask in the seat next to her.

I loved how much forward movement we got in this episode. Ani and Gina are killing me. Lara is annoying me. I can't say I'm surprised, but she's definitely emerging from her too-perfect new-relationship self. Nadia's doing a wonderful job making the transition natural and smooth.

And of course Kim and Crystal with the writing and storyline, are bringing about a slowly evolving set of characters and events. I love them soooo much for creating this show!

Venice: Episode 207 - November 24, 2010

Gina brings out a box of photos to go through with her father. She pulls pictures out and asks questions about them but he doesn't respond. She has to leave to go to a party but will be back and make him exercise. After she leaves he looks at a photo and says, "That was our fifth anniversary."

Lara and Ani are on the beach. Ani's got a bottle of Shiner and she's laying across Lara's lap. They are completely cute and when they get up Michelle and Jamie make the same assessment.

Gina runs into an old environmentally conscious friend.

Gina walks up to the group who all manage to leave her alone with Ani. They talk for a moment. Apparently Gina is throwing the party for Ani's gallery showing.
Sami asks Gina how it's going with her father. Gina says that it's an exercise in futility. Van walks up to the and Sami is surprised that he is Owen and Gina's cousin.
Gina goes over to Guya and her cute guy. Cute guy leaves them alone and Guya mentions that she loves "a man in a suit" because he's wearing a bathing suit.

Michelle, Jess and Jamie are talking about Jess loving working outside of London and Jamie's Internet date. Everyone is just relaxing.

Owen and Van chat for a minute then decide to start a game of volleyball. During the game Owen hits Van in the shoulder with the ball. Sami goes to his side and tells Owen that he did it on purpose. Van says that he's alright then walks off.

Gina offers Lara some water. Subtle Gina :) Lara declines and Gina says, "You know if you hurt her, you'll have to answer to me."

Van shows up at Guya's to appologize.

Gina walks up to her old friend. His name is Richard. He and Gina used to date. He and The Colonel seemed to get along, but Richard doesn't know that Gina dates women and asks her about the guy in her life. She side steps the question saying that she's not seeing anybody and heads back to her father's house. Richard looks after he all adoringly.

Venice: Episode 206 - November 17, 2010

Gina is trying to get The Colonel to exercise. He tells her not to be condescending. He says that he's sick of feeling helpless. She tells him that he has control of his recovery. She is so desperate that she says, "If I go out with a man, will you get on the bicycle?" Wow! As much as he's put her through emotionally and as much as she's probably been told by Ani to just walk away from him, Gina loves her dad so very very much to even make an offer like that. It's tough to see her grasping at anything to help a man that has hurt her so much. A part of her really is just a hurt little girl inside that wants her daddy back. The man that she probably looked up to and followed around when she was a child.

Lara is working when Ani comes in with flowers. Ani was gone when Lara woke up, she said Lara looked so peaceful and fulfilled that she didn't want to wake her. Ani went to a yoga class. Lara says that would stress her out "to try to bend my body in all those unnatural poses." She pulls Ani down into her lap and they kiss while Lara says, "Last night was amazing." Ani replies, "I know because I was there." They are being all cute and I still am envious of Jessica's hair. Ani puts the brakes on to make sure Lara continues working. Lara asks what's for dinner, Ani doesn't have anything planned. Hmmm. Perhaps Lara is falling into a habit that Ani isn't too keen to follow her into. Right now she's being good with the subtle swaying and directing of their interactions but she can't last like that too long without it turning to resentment from one of them.

The mystery woman shows up at Guya's again. She is a very lost woman named Amber and she's a little sceptical about what Guya does. Guya starts a session with Amber but loses her focus int he middle. She promises to reschedule and turns around only to find Amber gone again when she turns back and the cute foot massage guy there in her place.

Michele and Jamie are talking about his dating and he brings up this guy he's been talking to online named Drew.

Ani is taking pictures of Lara on the beach. At one point she tells her to take her top off then laughing says, "Just kidding" and walks up to and kisses Lara. She kisses her after each of the next few shots causing Lara to say that she likes getting rewarded for posing.

Guya is talking to Katie about her new guy.

Lara and Ani are having a picnic and when Ani pulls out baby carrots Lara takes notice. Being very attentive at the moment Lara manages to pull a story out of Ani about her Aunt Carmella's 80th birthday party and being mortified by becoming the subject of Carmella's vocal comments about no longer being pretty. Lara does a great job here of reassuring Ani. Ani says, "I really like you!" I'm glad that Lara was able to be a positive force for Ani's self image. (Still makes me uncomfortable when it's brought up though. Just sayin'. (: )

Venice: Episode 205 - November 10, 2010

Guya and Gina are at High Bar talking about missing each other, needing a sleepover with Owen and that Guya has been thinking about Katie a lot lately. Gina wonders how things would be different if her mother were still alive. Guya talks about how different he was when she was alive. Gina can't grasp her mind around him being so much different than he is with her. Guya tells GIna that maybe she can use this opportunity to move forward with The Colonel.

Ani is preparing to make dinner at Lara's. She opens the trash to trow away a paper towel and sees 2 beer bottles (Bridgeport Breweries: India Pale Ale?), a wine bottle and a liquor bottle (looks like E&J brand Brandy) Ani kind of frowns and contemplates then looks like she makes a decision. She's noticed Lara's drinking and seeing the bottle in the trash just made it that much more urgent.

Sami thanks Owen for helping before he leaves. She again reminds him that she's unavailable by telling him that she's got a date.

Gina gives herself a pep talk before going into the house to deal with her father.

Owen is frustrated because Sami is late and he's left her voice mail messages already.

Gina brings soup but The Colonel wants a burger. She's frustrated and he's frustrated. She tells him that if he works hard he'll be able to flip her off. When he final starts eating she watches him and a small smile creeps in. She can't help but be happy that he's making some progress.

Ani is feeding Lara empanadas and cleans up crumbs on Lara's mouth by kissing them away. Lara suggests wine and Ani distracts her with kisses.

Guya is upset that she's lost her aura. The last time that happened was when her ex ran off with "that dirty skank ho bitch". She grabs her journal and starts reading an entry from Katie's 30th birthday. She talks about John having planned a surprise party and the kids having planned a skit. She's gotten them tickets to The Greatful Dead.

Ani and Lara are taking a shower together. I can't help but think that Ani has decided to offer herself as a disctraction to Lara's drinking.
I also can't help but think that this scene is the sole reason that so many who have slighted the series from the beginning have praised this episode as the best yet. The writing hasn't changed, the scene structure hasn't changed. They are both as wonderfully layered and real as they've always been. The only thing that is different in this episode that I can see is the naked women in the shower. If I'm missing some other brilliant piece of writing that has just now come to the surface in episode 205 then please point it out to me. I'm not saying that the shower scene is a bad thing, just that it's the only difference I can find from previous episodes that might garner the praise that it recieved from otherwise historically dissappointed vocal viewers. Not that there is anything wrong with that either.

Venice: Episode 204 - November 3, 2010

Guya is getting a foot massage from a cute guy (Shawn Christian) who she apparently met while 'riding a bull' presumably in a bar. She leans in to smooch the cute guy and the framed photo of her and her sister falls over. Hm? What does that mean?

Sami and Owen are making dinner and she's trying to give him advice on interacting with his father. He doesn't take to her advice to swiftly. He tells her about how the rift formed between he and his father. She suggests that it's time to bridge that gap. They move on to another subject and she brings up having met a guy that talked with her about Africa. Owen gives her a little hippo figurine. Gina calls him to say that The Colonel has run off all of his nurses.

Ani calls Gina to check on her and Gina tells her about having to step in to nurse her father back to health. Ani says that it would make a good reality show and they brainstorm possible titles. Gina asks what Ani is up to tonight and finds out that Ani is cooking for Lara. Ani offers to bring Gina some chicken picata. Mmmmm. :)

Guya has a very distracted and unproductive session with Katherine. She gets a phone call on her private cell from some one leaving her shaken. She tells Katherine that she won't charge her for the session.

Gina tells The Colonel that she's his nurse now and tries to get him to do some hand exercises. He stares her down and drops the ball from his hand.

Lara is on the beach working and gets a phone call from Christa her editor. She is frustrated and annoyed as she always is when she ends a phone call with her editor. She takes a couple of drinks from her flask.

Van shows up at the soup kitchen and helps Sami clean up.

Gina is jogging on the beach and comes across a sleeping Lara. Gina spies her flask and Lara notices then hides it and excuses herself telling Gina that Ani's making dinner so she has to get home. Sooooo Gina is cluing in to Lara having a drinking problem but I seriously doubt that she'll say anything right away. She's trying very hard to not interfere with Ani's life and new relationship.

Venice: Episode 203 - October 27, 2010

We open with the last scene from the previous episode. Ani walking up to Gina on the beach. This time after Ani says, "Of course I am." there is only a small pause with meaningful looks before Gina asks Ani how she found out. When Ani says, "Jamie." Gina says, "Of course he... he told you. He's a good man." Ani prods Gina to talk about how she's doing and what she's feeling. Ani says that she won't let anyone know that tough Gina has a mushy center. The line is delivered with expert cuteness of course, but there's a moment right after Gina's reply when Ani looks like she desperately wants to fall back into her old habits of being there for Gina in all of the unhealthy, all consuming, self-depriving ways that she used to, but to her credit she looks down, away from Gina and breaks away from the mental ledge. Gina using her newly established awareness of Ani's needs asks about Ani, and Lara. It's a huge step in a seemingly tiny un-noticable act for Gina to conciously ease the tension and ask about Ani's current girlfriend. It shows that Gina has leanred from what Ani has been telling her and that Gina isn't going to take advantage of Ani's concern for her in this situation. Ani says that it's easy and they're getting to know each other. When Gina asks if she's happy, Ani replies that she is. Then Ani asks Gina about Tracy and Gina tells her that Tracy went back to London, that it was bad timing. Ani takes a moment to let that sit. Flashlight by Adrienne is playing under the scene. It's beautiful for two reasons, it fits the new friend status that Gina and Ani are trying so very hard to maintain and it's the song that was playing on Guiding Light when Natalia grabbed Olivia's hand to lead her out of Gus's house. (Nov. 10, 2008 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBRXUv7aSsY ) They both miss talking to each other like they used to. Such a sweet sweet scene! ::sniff::

Guya is trying to get The Colonel to allow people to help him heal. She's the only one who calls him John. Also a nice scene.

Gina has a flashback of her and Ani. She's taken Ani to the beach to tell her that she wants to take her away on a vacation. Ani is excited and they kiss. Gina comes out of the flashback and is on the beach alone. :(

Michelle is talking to Alan on the phone and is frustrated. Jamie shows up and tells Michelle that he needs to find a man. Michelle tells him he needs to try the internet. He says no. They are cute together.

Gina comes up to The Colonel's house in time to see his latest nurse leaving. She tries to bribe the nurse to stay by offereing to design a house for her. Apparently that was the last nurse as Gina tells her father that they've gone through 3 nursing companies and numerous nurses. He doesn't say anything as he watches her clean up the living room.

Guya is meditating when Van comes up and spooks her. Wes Ramsey is sooooo cute! Guya is sad that Van isn't staying with her, he's staying with a friend. She tells him about The Colonel's stroke. Van mentions again that he wants to bridge the gap with Owen while he's here.

Ani and Lara are having a picnic on the beach. Lara starts to go off about her editor and then decides that she's done talking about it. Ani says, "Yay!" She talks about being stressed about having to be around "wiaf thin models" who "need a fucking cheeseburger" she says that she coudl stand to lose a few punds and Lara jumps right in to tell her that she's perfect and that she doesn't want her to lose any of it and tells her to eat more. This is a profound scene in many ways. It feels like Lara is the more controlling of the two with her seemingly ignoring Ani's weight concerns and blowing them off by telling her that she thinks that she should eat more. It makes a comment on the world of modeling which has and I'm sure will alway be scrutinized for it's affinity towards dangerously thin models. It's also something that makes me uncomfortable and/or sad personally because I've read comments and seen video where Jessica has mentioned that she's not comfortable with her own weight since her pregnancy. I don't know if she was ever as self conscious about it as Ani, but it still makes me a little sad to be reminded of it. I say that, keeping in mind that I am fully and personally aware of image and weight expectations placed on actresses. It is a plot device that is difficult for me to watch mostly because it's Jessica playing the part. She is adorable and funny and sweet and I don't like to be reminded that she's not happy with her body even if it is completely understandable. The way she's playing it with Ani is absolutely perfect!

Gina is walking around The Colonel's house contemplating while he sleeps.

Venice: Episode 202 - October 20, 2010

Owen and Sami wake up in their South African Village. I have Owen's sleeping bag!!! :) They are cute. Owen tells Sami that they built a cell tower last night in the village. So he now gets all of the messages that Gina left for him telling him about The Colonel's stroke.

Ani shows up at Lara's with soy latte and tells her that she has to go meet Gina because of The Colonel's stroke. Jamie called her to let her know, she hasn't talked to Gina yet. Ani is looking beautiful. Okay, Jessica looks beautiful always and by default Ani is also breathtaking. Ani asks Lara if she's okay with Ani visiting Gina. Lara says that Gina is Ani's past, and that she herself is Ani's "here and now".

Owen and Sami and Gina are talking about The Colonel's stroke. Owen tries to figure out why Gina was there when it happened. She's evasive for obvious reasons and Owen finally backs off when Sami steps in. Sami suggests a round-the-clock nurse so that neither Gina nor Owen has to stay with him and he doesn't have to go to a rehab facility. Sami leaves and is being watched/followed by someone in grey shorts.

Guya tells Gina that Van is coming home and looking to work things out with Owen. When she hangs up with Gina she turns around and sees the mystery woman from the previous night. She asks if she's there for an appointment and turns around to check her schedule. When she turns back around the mystery woman has disappeared without ever having said a word.

Katherine is at High Bar and sees a young woman there. She starts talking to herself and practicing many different pick-up scenarios. She's not doing well working up to asking the woman out, but Alan walks up to her and distracts her. Apparently Alan calls her Elizabeth and is the only one to do so.

Gina and Jamie are walking on the beach debriefing each other about the event of the last night. Jamie tells Gina that the dead hooker wasn't from a service but someone that The Colonel was seeing exclusively (although the same wasn't true for her). Jamie also tells Gina that the woman's alias was Candy Cane. They share a laugh before Gina takes comfort in a hug from Jamie. It's been a long few hours. .

Sami is approached my Van on the beach and they share stories of world travel she tells him that she volunteers at a soup kitchen and suggests that he try it too. She makes sure to let him know that she has a boyfriend.

Gina is sitting on the beach and Ani walks up and sits next to her. Gina is surprised and comforted and grateful that Ani is there. Ani says that "Of course I am (here)." and takes Gina's hand in both of hers. They are both killing this little scene without doing much of anything because Jessica and Crystal can rock the unspoken conveyances.

Venice: Episode 201 - September 29, 2010

I could have sworn that I had already written a review of the first episode of the season, but if I did I have no idea where it went so......


The episode opens with a recap "Previously on Venice" for which I am grateful. Not that I haven't watched the season one episodes recently, but it's a great way to introduce new viewers to the second season.

Gina and The Colonel are arguing over the dead body that he's just shown her. He's telling her that she's going to help him and she says that she's not. That he's only thinking of himself and not about her career or life. Personally I was surprised that she even showed up when he called at the end of last season, but I know that I would do the same thing in her situation. Just as GIna is going to open the door and leave, The Colonel collspes and GIna calls 911. She then calls someone to help her. Her voice is calm and measured so you know she's calling for help with the dead body.

Lara is annoyed with her editor and is not in a good mood then turns around to find Ani making her a nice snack . Lara has given her a key to use anytime she wants. Lara is ranting about her editor and gets up to take a shot of something harder than wine, then comes back to pick up her glass. Ani is watching with concern and a bit of shock. When Lara sits back down Ani moves in behind her to massages her shoulders and relax her. Lara asks about Ani's work and while Ani is having problems with jobs being postponed and rescheduled she's not nearly as angry about them as Lara and kind of brushes them off. She tells Lara that she Googles the New York TImes bestseller list every morning and sees the picture of Lara and says, "That's my girlfriend!" Lara says that Ani is adorable and who can argue with that, because in fact Jessica is playing her so very very well. They get up to dance and kiss. The look in Ani's eyes seems to say that she's trying to distract Lara from her bad mood. She seems to get the drinking issue and is instead offering herself as a substitute. While sweet, that tactic doesn't work well in the long run and can end up being just as detrimental to Ani, causing her to lose herself.

Guya sees a woman outside and is stunned but turns away for a moment and when she looks back the woman (Liz Keifer) is gone. Guya gets a phone call presumabley to tell her about The Colonel collapsing.

Owen has created a little African Village for Sami where there is no cell service, but there is a picnic. They make love on the sleeping bag he's set out in the living room.

Jess (Venice fan "bidforvenice" on Twiter, Anita) is filling in for Tracy and meeting with Michelle. We learn from this conversation that Gina and Tracy are over and that Tracy has thrown herself into her work.

Jamie is 'The Cleaner' and is taking care of things at The Colonel's house. He wonders what he's gotten himself into, and we wonder the same thing. Poor Jamie.

Gina is looking through a box of photos and comes across one that has to have been her mother and father and herself when she was an infant. Then she comes across one of her and Ani (one of the photos of Crystal and Jessica at Crystal's CCnFriends fan luncheon in October of 2009) and breaks down into sobs. Poor Gina.

Hugs to Jamie and Gina!
Crystal, Jessica, Jordan, Harrison and Nadia really turned in great performances for this opening episode. That's not to says that anyone else sucked mind you, just that those five characters had much more layered scenes emotionally in this episode.

Venice: More comments and responses

Sorry, I know I'm behind on 'Days' blogging, but I wanted to share these thoughts with some people that I know would appreciate them, but won't see them where they were originally posted.
http://z8.invisionfree.com/otaliafans/index.php?showtopic=6631&view=findpost&p=5511241
In response to the 1st part of the interview with Kim and Crystal http://www.ausxip.com/video/archives/1314 and some viewers discontent with what they percieved the interview accomplishing.

Some people enjoy the writing and don't think it needs fixed. However story arcs are part of the the writing, and they addressed that as something that was going to be different now that the introduction of characters was over. I've said for a while that I've seen the first season of Venice as the first 20 minutes of a movie. It's the introduction, the exposition the 'foundation' and the jumping off point. In the interview it sounded to me like that's how they saw it too. Since it isn't a feature film, then yes a lot of the comments regarding 'arc' and 'pacing' are due to format differences.

http://z8.invisionfree.com/otaliafans/index.php?showtopic=6631&view=findpost&p=5512352
In response to a mis-understanding to my previous post.

I was referring to 'feature film' format, not length. Being a soap opera style I don't believe that it would have been their intention to encapsulate all of Venice into a feature film length, they are building a basis for a story that would hopefully continue on for a while that's why it's 'like' the first 20 minutes of a feature film, not it is the first 20 minutes of a feature film. I feel that the first season of Venice was to serve the same purpose as the first 20 minutes, I wasn't meaning that they wrote a 90-180 minute feature film and chopped it into web-seized pieces.It's a big broad scope, not your average web or other series, it's what makes it unique and original and not like everything else that I just can't get into because I get bored with it after the first 3 minutes.I'm not sure how else to explain it aside from hooking up a fire wire from my brain to the PC so peeps can see what I mean. It's a good solid idea, it's just not formulaic or a copycat. Hopefully as we go (since they are staying true to their original vision Thank Goodness!) it will become more clear.

http://z8.invisionfree.com/otaliafans/index.php?showtopic=6631&view=findpost&p=5513227
In response to statements that the team behind Venice was not receptive to criticism etc.

I didn't get a sense that the weren't receptive to constructive criticism. I got a sense that they knew what they wanted it to be, that they knew where they fell short in that goal, and that they listened to and read criticisms and compliments alike. I did get a sense that they've read and listened to criticism that is in no way helpful, constructive or 'in the best interest for the success of Venice' and probably won't go to a lot of effort to make sure that each of those 'criticisms' are addressed. I'm also sure that they aren't looking at every, "The show is absolutely amazing, I LOVE YOU!!!!" as a signal to keep everything the same. I think that just because a certain criticism or critique may not be implemented (which we don't know yet) does not mean that
they aren't receptive, it just might not fit into the master plan/original vision of the work. As a person who enjoys and understands the show and the writing, and who does not give fawning praise to anyone. I'm glad that they let people know that they saw some issues and will be addresses them, and I'm am very very glad to hear that they are sure of their original idea. I like their original idea. Good for them.The writing does not need a major overhaul, there is no fatal flaw. There is room for improvement, they saw that. I knew they would. They are smart people. You always see things that you would have done differently once the cast is released, or the final edit is cut. Some things you can change then, some things you have to let go and change next time. It doesn't mean that you aren't aware that they're there. I was relieved and reassured when they spoke about knowing things could be improved, because so many of the comments that they've gotten use wording that insinuates that they aren't or wouldn't be aware of things.I'm glad that what I gathered from the interview didn't sound like they were going to change Venice into something that I
wouldn't recognize or enjoy.

http://z8.invisionfree.com/otaliafans/index.php?showtopic=6631&view=findpost&p=5514835
In response to comments about need to relegate some characters to the periphery and not show their personal stories.

See, and I like that. Give me more people to juggle, more stories to keep up with. Things like that make it so much more interesting to me. I want to know everything about everyone in a story. I actually kind of want to know more about the people Ani was photographing that day on the promenade when Gina showed up and Ani told her she needed space and took a picture or the two of them. Were they for a magazine shoot, or a private thing that they hired Ani to do? To me that adds depth. My brain is good with the multi-focusing.

http://z8.invisionfree.com/otaliafans/index.php?showtopic=6631&view=findpost&p=5515766
Response to another expression of desire for Venice to be like other web series.

I would still rather have Venice be marginally successful and remain true to the original vision than to cater to and conform to the way that 'everyone else' does it. To me it is a gem, a 'diamond in the rough' so to speak. It's different and unique and maybe it's a little beyond the conceptual scope of some viewers or draws them out of their traditional viewing comfort zone. I want them to make the changes that they saw and need to make to ensure that Venice more closely resembles the work that they envisioned, but I don't want them to make arbitrary changes just so that more people like it.I think the formatting for web style was one of the things that they mentioned they were going to be looking at, but I sure do not want them to take on anything else from other web series even if they are some of "the most successful web series" out there. I want Venice to be Venice, and not only with the character names and locations to make it different from the others.

I'm not saying, that my way is the only way. I'm just saying that I'm tired of people telling me that Venice "has to change" "needs to do this" or "should be that way" because it isn't any good. I'm tired of them dismissing my opinion because they think that I am "enamored with" or "blindly following" the Venice creative team.
I'm amazed that some people have such a mental block that they can't see that there are other ways for things to be good, not just what you get in spades from 'main stream' TV and web series. Productions went to the web for creative freedom, and trying to force a things, or rejecting that which does not into a mold (it's a new mold I'll give you, but a mold all the same) defeats the very spirit of web production.
And I'm sorry, but you can't hide behind "I only want Venice to succeed" to excuse the rudeness and definitely non-constructive criticism.

Venice: Season One (a response to critics)

I haven't read every comment out there regarding Venice, but I have seen many varying viewpoints. I'd like to take a moment to address some of the comments and list a few of my own responses to those comments that aren't episode specific things that have already been pointed out in previous blog posts.

The first comment I'd like to address is that people don't 'understand' 'get' 'empathize with' or 'like' the character of Gina. That they don't understand what she wants, haven't been told what's driving her and don't understand why Ani loves her. My response is, that you're not paying attention to everything that's going on under a scene that plays into the overall scope. If you're just looking at a scene in a vacuum it may not be as visible, but so many little things add up. Sure it's easy to be distracted and only pay attention to what you can actually SEE when Crystal is on screen. But she says so much about who Gina is when the camera isn't focused on her. The way Gina acts and reacts in different surroundings says so much about 'who' she is around and to these different people in her life. She's not the same personality with The Colonel as she is with Guya and she's not the same person with Guya that she is with Ani and so on. We all do that to some extent especially between co-workers, friends and family, but paying attention to how Gina is around whom gives great insight into who she really is and who Ani really sees "so clearly through all of [her] bullshit." Gina is hurt and vulnerable. She just wants to be loved and held but can't let down her walls long enough to allow herself to be. She wants that. She just doesn't know how to get there or even IF she can be that person. It's all there (and maybe I'm misinterpreting it) you just have to be paying attention to more than the pretty, to see it. Not that the pretty isn't worthy of watching, but you can't claim something isn't there if you're not looking for it.

The second comment I wanted to address is 'useless' scenes that don't further the plot. Every scene adds something to the overall experience, and it's usually telling us something about Gina along with it. The most commonly stated example is the scene where Gina brings Alan his boots. So many people have written that scene off and said that there is nothing for us to get from it. I couldn't disagree more. It tells us that Gina not only allowed a client to have a personal package delivered to her office, she then delivered it to him instead of having him pick it up at the office. And she wasn't meeting him for a business lunch or drinks either. It was a very personal touch that not only said that she valued him as a client, but as a person, and he sees her not only as a contractor, but as some one that he's comfortable enough around to share not only his "new dream" but the fact that his "wife wants him to get a new hobby." Gina only talks to him for a couple of seconds, but we learn that she's kind from her responses to Alan, after her initial surprise at the sparkle-y-ness of the boots, and her comment of, "You're gonna look great." as she walks away. She's a very likable person.

The third comment (don't worry I don't have too many more to go ;) ) is that people want to 'see' more of the things happening instead of be told that they happened. I say, why? I don't need to see a scene between HIGH Bar and wall sex in Episode 11 to know that there was a lot of tension, maybe a fight maybe just some silent steaming, that led to Tracy needing to claim Gina and to remind her that she was there, and Gina needing to prove that she's okay, and to forget at the same time. I don't need to seen that scene, because the wall scene told me everything they were feeling whether they had verbalized it with each other on the way home or not.

The fourth comment I want to address is the claim that the writing isn't good because it doesn't follow text book outlines for plot, character arc etc. My first response to that is, just because you don't see a plot or character arc, doesn't mean that there isn't one. It's a bad sign when audiences are so used to formulaic scripts that they apparently need a study guide to understand a script that is fresh and uncommon. The less snarky response would be that just because it doesn't follow 'text book' doesn't mean it isn't good. Nothing ever changes from doing things the same way. {If that were the case no one would ever progress through Meisner's first lesson. ;) } My television viewer response is, 'Thank God that it doesn't.' I mean seriously! Unless it's a special episode or a multi-episode arc you can switch on most shows and, depending on whether it's half hour or hour and what genre it is, tell just by the time frame (10 minutes in or just after the half hour C-break) what important piece of information you'll be receiving that's 'integral' to the plot. For example you can watch the last 15 minutes of any Law and Order episode and get what the entire show was about. Tune into any of the CSI shows during the 20-30 minute time frame and you'll see that the investigators have just discovered another 'person of interest' to question. It's mind numbing. While we may have all broadened our vocabulary with legal and medical Latin, and we now instinctively pay attention to potential evidence, we aren't being challenged to broaden our minds or pay attention to each other or human nature. I think that Venice does that. It gives us characters and plot points, but doesn't tell us how we should view the characters or what we should glean from the plot points. I passed elementary school a long ago and I thank Venice for not treating me like I'm still there. I didn't like being patronized by teachers then and I don't like being patronized by my scripts now. So to everyone who says that they aren't seeing the 'necessary ingredients' for quality writing, I encourage you to dust off the grey matter and actually pay attention. Sorry, that last bit was a bit more snark than intended, but it's a repeated comment that has really not set well with me.

My fifth and last comment to address actually ties in to all of the rest. When I've shared the preceding ideas with some viewers their reply is, "I don't want to have to work this hard to be entertained." That statement alone says so much to me, and leans me toward another pet peeve of mine, reality, alternative, or sensational programming. It gives credence to the saying, 'Television will rot your brain.' It has undeniably created a culture of instant gratification and in doing so the 'mini season'. You don't have to really invest in the 'characters' because you're only going to be with them for 2 months maybe 3. You don't have to really get to know them because everything that the producers want you to know, they show you. I think that what we're seeing with comments like this, not wanting to work to be entertained, is a desensitized audience that needs more to hold it's attention than good characters and subtle (actual reality) plots. That's our failing as an audience for not wanting to be engaged, then complaining about it when we fail to become invested. You have to shop at the right place for the product you want. When I need 30 yards of raspberry silk I go to the fabric store I don't go to Home Depot. When I want mindless entertainment I go watch a good action film, I don't go watch a dramatic soap style webseries.

Maybe I'm a romantic when it comes to my desire for entertainment. I don't want to watch on TV what I can see everyday at the office. I don't want plots that are so predictable that I know when something is going to happen even if I don't know what is going to happen. I may be very attentive to more than just the acting, dialog and setting, but I also enjoy just watching the show with no expectations of 'within the next few minutes certain things have to happen.' I don't like being told how to think or how I should feel about a character by the script or the editing or the music. I love that I can just 'be' with the Venice series and enjoy it and get involved with the characters without being told every five minutes that I need to be thinking about this now, or my focus should be here. Venice is open and refreshing and easy for me in a way that television hasn't been in years and it does that without sacrificing engaging entertainment.

That being said I sincerely hope and make a gentle plea to the Venice creative team that, although I know some critiques will be taken into consideration and some changes will be made as season one was a learning experience in many ways, the face and feel of Venice isn't changed so drastically to fit into the narrow frame of reference that many vocal critics seem to want that it becomes just another literary automaton cookie cutter formulaic series. My brain needs the chewy granola goodness that is Venice.

Venice: Episode 12 - March 5, 2010

Season 1 finale. ::sniff:: sad to see it go.
Okay, I think that Tracy got her answer right there with Gina's reaction to her saying, "I'm falling in love with you." Obviously that made Gina extremely uncomfortable. I think that anything she says or promises right now would be in a effort to keep Tracy with her even if she doesn't or can't mean it right now.
I'm glad that Ani came over so that they could talk. Gina wants Ani in her life and wants to be friends with her again. She just doesn't get that Ani can't just be friends because she loves Gina too much. She gets sucked into her wants and desires and puts her own needs aside. It's not healthy for Ani right now.
I think that Gina is more upset about Ani than Tracy.
Uh. Who is the dead girl in the handcuffs? And why, why would The Colonel call his daughter to help him take care of it?
Season 2 starts next week right?
:)

Venice: Episode 11 - February 26, 2010

Ha! Okay, it starts out with everyone drinking shots to celebrate Owen getting a role in a film. Not a 'shit' film either. I totally sympathize when they are all excited that he has a wardrobe fitting. That means that there is a budget for this film and he's not going to have to raid his closet or buy his own clothes. This is truly exciting stuff! It also tells us that while he may have been getting acting jobs that they have mostly been low or no budget projects. This is a big step and a nice boost to the resume for Owen. Yay for him. He deserves a celebratory shot! :)
Hmmm. Tracy's rubbing the small of Gina's back while she's hugging Owen can be taken a couple of ways. It could mean that she is genuinely affectionate toward Gina and just can't stop touching her. I very valid possibility, Gina is very snuggly especially in that shirt it's all soft looking. It could also mean that Tracy is a little possessive and on some level sees Gina a prize that she's won or a pet that she's claimed. She did 'train' her after all to properly woo a person before sleeping with them.
(Shallow side note: Holy cow, Jessica looks amazing!) Ani definitely looks like she's caught off guard, but that she's not backing down. It's tough, but she's got to have her own life. Gina just looks hurt. Ouch. Gina saying, "I didn't know you were back in town." and Ani replying, "I didn't go anywhere." It's a little harsh, but I think that Ani needs this. It sets a clear boundary for Gina and her. Gina is so flustered that she can't even introduce Tracy to Ani, but I like how Ani says, "Nice to meet you Tracy." but doesn't give her name.
Apparently Tracy already knew who she was though and she's not happy about it. Lara isn't happy about Gina's or Ani's reactions either. I'm glad that she's open about her concerns though. Instead of letting things sit and letting her doubts get bigger she's telling Ani right off the bat what she sees and what she needs. I've got to give her credit for that. And we get more back story from Ani so that's good. I like that she tells Lara that she doesn't know if she wants to get back together with Gina. That's a big thing to admit to your date, and to yourself. Lara, "But you are not coming home with me." and Ani batting her eyes and saying, "We'll see?" Too too cute! Lara thinks so too. :D
Here's what I got from the Gina and Tracy scene in the hallway... Gina needed comfort sex and Tracy needed claiming 'you're mine' sex.
Good episode. I liked what it gave us and what it was setting up. Can't wait to watch the next one!

Venice: Episode 10 - February 19, 2010

Okay, I'd like to take a second to say how much I love the theme song! Venice Beach by Jen Foster.
All right, continuing on with the show. This is going to be a long one people. Lots of stuff going on under the surface.
First shot of the front of the restaurant is Susan Feniger’s Street If you have the means please throw a little support their way. They are listed on the sponsor page of Venice.
"Mmm." "Right?" "This food is amazing, and I have been dying to eat here and I couldn't get a reservation. So I don't understand why it's so empty right now." I listed to dialog to illustrate a point. We are three, count them three lines, four sentences into the scene and there is already so much to be gleaned, or surmised depending on your viewpoint.
First point is that Ani is comfortable. Whether she wants to be or not, she is comfortable enough with Lara to have not been hyper sensitive of her surroundings, she noticed the place, that was popular enough that she could never get reservation to, was empty, but it didn't unsettle her, or throw her off or distract her from 'Mmmm'ing the amazing food. Second point is that Lara is very attentive to Ani. She replies immediately to the 'Mmmm.' But she's not uncontrollably attracted to her. Most of the time that Ani is doing her cute ramble about food and reservations Lara is looking at her own plate. This could also be that she's hiding something. Either way, if she's on a date with Ani, I would think only quick glances to make sure you're not spilling in your lap or bringing and empty fork to your mouth. I mean, have you seen Ani? I mean captivating and intriguing even if you're not romantically attracted to her. Third point, there are candles on their table. Their aren't candles on the other table in view. With the fourth line, "Well, I just happen to know the chef, and she opened early for me." We find out so much more, but have more questions too. Lara is trying to make Ani feel special. Having the restaurant open early, getting candles on their table, if they opened early then was the chef their waitress too? How does Lara know the chef, and what would make her open early for her? Those are some awfully big stops for a first date too. Either Lara is completely smitten with Ani, or she's trying too hard either to cover something up or to 'win' her over. I am very curious about how Lara knows the chef. Surely not an ex-girlfriend? The way Lara glances away right after she says it could indicate that she's uncomfortable and she's lying or maybe just that Nadia needed to actually see the glass she was picking up. Lara needs to stop over explaining because it sounds like she's trying too hard to cover now, like she feels the need to defend Chef, and it looks like that how Ani takes it too with her amused smirk, then her eyes get all contemplative and her face goes thoughtful and serious for a minute. Then she pulls out of it and makes a choice to change the subject and learn about Lara. I'm not sure if it's just Nadia take on Lara or if it has to do with Lara's character, we haven't seen enough of Lara to know yet, but I'm not sure that I completely trust her. I can't tell yet if she's just apprehensive about sharing her personal childhood and emotional baggage with Ani, or if she's trying to remember or make up on the fly character history. Parents yelling all of the time to the point where it drives you to seek escape in books as a child is a bold thing to share on a first date, unless you're completely over it and brush it off, but it doesn't play like Lara is over it. Ani looks at once, concerned and a little taken aback maybe? Like she doesn't really know how to process what Lara has shared or the fact that she felt comfortable sharing it. It also explains why her favorite book is her favorite book. Story-time was safe, she felt loved and protected it was the one constant that was a good thing. A part of her is always going to cling to that. Even as an adult the book is going to bring back happy memories and an emotional security that is very deeply rooted. (If I ever come across a little flat padded yellow gingham duck like the one that I had in the pocket of my red corduroy overalls, I'd buy it.) I think I may have read Goodnight Moon once, when I was like 13 because I was waiting in the orthodontists office and didn't feel like reading RedBook, Field and Stream or Hot Rods and I'd gone through all of the Timbertoes comics in the Highlight's magazines. It didn't leave a huge impression on me, but I do know that it's a popular book as the reason I picked it up was that I'd heard it referenced several times in movies and television. Ani thinks that it's cute and endearing, she is however a tad bit uncomfortable with Lara going back to commenting on the yelling. However, if she's going to bring it up, then obviously she wants to talk about it, so Ani dives right in and asks. Ani does the internal dialog, always contemplating thing a lot. It makes me wonder if she's trying to figure out Lara or if she's just trying to figure out if she's in a place where she can handle everything that Lara brings with her. Ani's still emotionally attached to Gina, she wouldn't want to jump right back into a relationship with someone else much less someone else with issues. Or, she could just be bored and trying to think of a question to ask next, but I'm thinking that she's evaluating. Aw, Ani's an Annie Leibovitz fan. If you haven't seen it, the photo that Lara refers to is in the gallery on the PBS American Masters page along with other breathtaking images. Just click the link. It says a lot about Ani, she's moved by the spirit of the image and probably gets disenchanted in her job when a project has heavy technical specifications. She's probably more of a 'how does it make you feel in the end' person as opposed to a 'make sure you hit every check point along the way' person. I have to agree, I'm a 'Paul' girl too. Ani and Lara are adorable during this part of the conversation. With the mention of the photo, Lara has intrigued Ani. Here is where she secured the second date. Just an fyi for those keeping score. ;) Now Ani's questions are more off-the-cuff and she doesn't have to 'gear up' for them. I love the line about Lara having to share a bathroom with two other sisters and Ani says, "That's, not okay." Cute.
Okay, Ani's comment about her brothers beating her up is disturbing. She kind of plays it off with a smile, but it's only her mouth that smiles and even then it's more self deprecating for actually letting that little piece of info out. When she cuts her eyes to the side it looks like she's warding off getting teary eyed, then she looks down and takes a second to compose herself. I am not liking Ani's brothers. They really beat her up?!? That's what's not okay. I'd rather she had to share a bathroom than get beat up. She's still a little shaking when she says, 'They just tried to scare away anyone I dated." Can I go and beat up Ani's brothers now? She tries to laugh it off, but she's still hurting. Ani needs hugs! I like how Ani has family issues, but she doesn't let them define her. Her parents may be, "Pretty cool with it,"but I'm betting that Ani's glossing over a lot. Notice that she never once said, 'they are supportive' or 'they love me and just want me to be happy' she's taken what she was given and made the best of it and tries not to let it affect her personal life too much. The little giggle and eye twinkle after, "I would really like dessert," was great. So cute!
Sami is going to be good for Owen I think. Even if she turns out to be a bad person, the fact that she makes him aware and appreciative is a good thing. Her line, "I'd give anything for that," is a prime example.
I do like that Gina is a little skeptical and protective though. She is a little too perfect. It doesn't mean it isn't the truth, but it's a flag raiser.
I think it's cute that Ani and Lara were almost more awkward after the kiss than before. That was sweet.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed the episode. Except of course where my protective streak kicks in and I want to beat up Ani's brothers.

Venice: Episode 9 - February 12, 2010

Aw, Ani's bad day is sooo familiar to me. :)
Love how Lara just unabashedly checks out Ani, then smiles.
I too have gotten to the cashier with an order (dinner to go while running to a rehearsal) and realized that I didn't have cash or cards on me. My encounter didn't turn out the same though, the manager just told me I could have the food since it was already made and bade me a good night. If for no other reason, the fact that Lara just automatically handed over money for the coffee not expecting anything in return, makes me like her.
This whole conversation and scene with Lara and Ani is perfect. Ani is completely flustered and yet Lara manages to calm her and take her focus off of the little mishaps of the morning. I love how Lara is immediately comfortable and flirty with Ani. Sometimes with some people you just feel that it's okay to be in their personal space right off the bat, seeing that makes me happy. Lara being confident and not arrogant by asking about a 'special someone' was very nice. I think I like Lara very much indeed.
Heehee. Ani, "...I have to shoot someone in an hour," and Lara's look in response, funny! It's the kind of thing that you know sounds bad, but you're so used to using the terminology that you don't think to censor yourself. I have family and co-workers who know what I do and they still get a squeamish look when I use shoot or shooting, I can easily see where Lara who has just met Ani would be a little taken aback at first. (Side note: Jessica and Nadia look beautiful in this scene.) Yes, Ani. You do owe Lara a drink ... or something. :)
Lara teasing Ani about losing or spilling something on her phone number killed me! I love her even more now.
Haha. "I'll stick with my Blue Cow." I can't believe that Red Bull wouldn't want to endorse this show! They get so much free advertising from Crystal anyway, why not just let them use the name in the series. :D
What was in the chair that Gina just ate? Actually, never mind. I'm pretty sure that I don't want to know. :)
Hm, Guya drunk dialed the guy she's been seeing? I'm thinking that maybe Guya's new found 'enlightened' persona may be covering hurt and self doubt that she hasn't gotten over yet. I like that she's able to be there for Gina. Gina needs that someone who can be silly with her, and still give her advice without judging her. Gina has enough people putting expectations on her. It's good that she's got someone that she obviously looks up to and whose opinion she respects. When she thanked Guya for being there, it felt like she was fighting crying. It's very emotional when you realize, acknowledge, accept, know that someone loves you and cares for you that much. Even more so when it's someone who chooses to be there when people who should be there aren't.

Venice: Episode 8 - February 5, 2010

I love how Ani is a little hesitant to answer Gina's phone call. Then when her voice cracks like she's trying not to cry. I want to give Ani lots of hugs. This is so hard for her and she's being so strong and not letting herself fall back into an unbalanced interdependency. Gina's tone at the beginning is very child like almost like she's lost and wants to say, "I don't understand. Why do you have to have to go away?" but she can't find the right words. Everything that Ani says is correct. She does need to not fall into the pattern of being the only one emotionally available, and she's only harsh and rough with Gina because she's just not understanding what Ani is saying she needs. I kind of feel like Gina is trying and wants to be the person that Ani needs, but that she's just not emotionally mature enough to do it. She needs someone to take her hand and lead her through.
The funny thing is that Ani knows how to do it, but she can't be the one to show Gina for so many reasons. She's too close and Gina's missteps will hurt Ani even though unintentionally. She's been patient and it hasn't been working so it's time to take the training wheels off and let Gina try on her own. What if Gina never gets there? Ani can't spend her life living for someone else alone. She has to live her own life too.
Right now Gina doesn't understand what or that anything needs to change, and until she acknowledges that Ani has valid concerns then every apology she gives is going to come across to Ani as insincere.
I like how excited Alan gets over fabric and textile samples for the hotel. It makes me smile.
Tracy and Gina can't keep their eyes off of each other either. Very Nice.
I really love the family-time drinks with Guya and Owen and Gina. Lots of talkign to each other, getting different perspectives and workign things out. I like that Guya is explaining to Gina that she needs to give Ani what she's asking for. Guya's ex-husband's-new-wife Tourette's and the little comments on the subject of the discussions. "He 'soonish'd me!" was hysterical, truly something that seems born from idle, comfortable banter. Then Owen and Gina teasing Guya about having to leave the room. lmao Gina saying she's going to play the triangle... tears. Does Guya just happen to have a triangle lying around? 'Cause that would be awesome! :)

Venice: Episode 7 - Jan 29, 2010

Lots to address in this episode and it goes by fast, sooooooo.
Gina is off balance because she finally stood up to and defended herself against her father. (Many people were nonplussed with the argument scene at the brunch. I tried to explain how it made perfect sense, hopefully now that more background info is out there people are taking a second look at the brunch scene and can see how it was crafted and fit to the characters.) Anyway, Gina is shaken from the experience, not just from having to deal with her father, but from having done something that she's never done before. Now, what? How does that change her relationship with her father, or does it? As long as she was still trying to make him happy (as she says later in this scene) then she at least knew where she stood. She was at least on solid ground, even if that ground was hostile territory. Now, she's got a new dynamic, a new view of what she's capable of, and a new concern for how her father might now relate to her. Will he cut her out completely? She's got all of this going on in her head, and she can't talk to Owen, because he's too involved. So she calls Ani because she's always been the one she talks to about it. But she's not even sure that she can call Ani because she's not on solid footing with that relationship either. When Ani gets to the beach Gina is lost and scared and looking for someone to guide her and sooth her.
Ani's reaction of, "Oh, Jesus Christ" when she learns that Gina told her father off, tells us how big of a deal that was for Gina. Jessica's delivery fills those three words with all of the shock, concern and anger that the situation warrants. Shock that Gina took such a huge step, concern for how she's handling everything that goes with that, and anger at The Colonel for whatever he had to have done to get Gina to that point. Which leads to her next line asking what happened. You can tell that her instinct is to scoot closer and wrap Gina up in a hug, but that she can't let herself get that close and open emotionally, and she doesn't want to take more than Gina is willing to give. You can hear in the way Crystal says Gina's line, "...came bursting out." that Gina just wants to be held and told that it'll be okay. When that doesn't happen there is a slight bit of resignation in her voice as she continues giving Ani Cliff's Notes of what happened.
The way she says, "He didn't deny it." It's almost like she's telling Ani, 'See how bad he makes me feel?' It seems that Ani picks up on that in that her reply is basically, 'If he's hurting you then stop going to him.' It's easy advice to give, harder to practice when that person is someone that you've spent your entire life trying to get to approve of or notice you. It's hard when that person is family. It's even harder when that person is both.
Ani's concern and love is abundantly clear when she gives Gina the reasons that The Colonel isn't a healthy person to have in her life. Gina knows that she has to work through everything, but it's hard to take the long way. Ani still instinctively want to comfort Gina, this time telling Gina what she herself needs, and that she knows that she can't have it. Gina's 'Well, you can still hold me' just about killed me just like it did Ani.

Um, who was Michelle's last date who tried to kill her? That's a little scary. :)

Ani is right to request space and to not be on a tether for Gina to reel back in whenever she feels like it. You can tell that she doesn't want to do it, but that she knows it's the right thing for both of them. If they keep up like they are then Ani will end up resenting Gina for not committing and not letting her move on, and if Gina were to give in and say, 'Okay, you're right, move in.' when she wasn't ready then she'd end up resenting Ani. It's a tough situation since they both really do love each other so much. The picture and goodbye kiss were sweet and sad. Perfectly Ani thing to do.
::sniffle::