580: "Tales of a Small Town Thug"
Posted: Fri Dec 02, 2005 8:37 pm
Episode Review: Episode 580: Tales of a Small Town Thug
Writer: Marshall Younger(#105)
Sound Designer: Nathan Jones
??
Title: Between Rusty and John Campbell
Characters:
Major: (greater than 30 eps)
Whit(#384)
Connie (#272)
Eugene(#172)
Mandy (#41)
Minor: (less than 30 eps)
Liz(#23)
Trent(#12)
I had the impression this would be a mystery rather than a slice of life
I felt, at first and throughout this episode, that the mood was too “bouncy”. Odyssey music has evolved so much throughout the period of Odyssey, and it is what contributes to the overall feel of the show. I mean, if Odyssey decided to go back to the old music and keep the same storylines, then the series would improve so much. I’m not saying every new Odyssey show is like this, but what with the new side the show is revealing these days; I’m getting the impression from a few scenes that we’re returning to the 1999 split-episode age again. Because, honestly, that’s the feel I’m getting.
Luckily, it’s practically just the music.
Before you dismiss this review as a fan that is in a bad mood and always dissatisfied with the series, and always wishing that the series would go back to the way it used to—please read on. Because, of course, I’m the furthest away from that type of fan. First of all, I believe in progression. I believe that if a character has evolved from being so “intellectually bright that it takes control of himself” that they shouldn’t keep going back to how the character was just for the sake of old times. I’m not necessarily saying that that’s what they did with Eugene, but it sure sounds like they bordered on that.
The thing is, I don’t mind these episode once in a while. Let’s say, for example, that we’re midway throughout the “Risks and Rewards” Era/Season (an excellent period in Odyssey), and we turn on the radio to listen to the episode that aired today. Let me review this episode in that circumstance (not taking into consideration that it would awkward from the rest of the season);
The storyline was very well written and intelligent. It was an all-favorite cast and a well-produced slice of life storyline. It was nice to hear from Liz and Mandy once more, as well as Trent. With every episode that passes, I always wonder if it’ll be the day where the team decides to take out Liz and Mandy, and dismissing them as being too old for the show. However, could it be that this show just helped them in staying for a little while longer?
I’m sure that the rest of my fellow-reviewers noticed that the show didn’t touch on why exactly Mandy was in a grumpy mood. It was only until I re-listened to the show that I realized that she remained that way from the very beginning—though, it’s hard to really notice at first. Perhaps it was just meant for the sake of the program, but, and yes I’m taking a large stab in a very dark space; I thought they were trying to evolve the romance between Mandy and Trent. Was it possible that Mandy was too shy around Trent, and suddenly, becoming too shy, decided to drop out of the team to avoid embarrassment? Either that, or their was some other misfortune that struck her life. Again, the show never touched on what was eating her. Strange. Hopefully, it was actually something.
Speaking of storylines, it was a stroke of genius for Odyssey to re-use these old characters. This time, it was done in such a way without actually having us hear from the character. Rusty, in my opinion, was probably the most intimidating bully in Odyssey. He acted, and played the bully so perfectly, that I wished that he could stay on the show for longer. Either that, or take over the lead of the bones of Wrath. As a matter of fact, one of my first attempted Odyssey scripts was one where Rusty came back to town, but he and Rodney found that they didn’t have anything more in common—in a way that made Rodney look like a good guy, and, in the end, Rusty takes over the gang. Anyways, it is nice to hear where the characters are at now in life. Even though we still follow Whit, Connie, Eugene, and many others, Odyssey shouldn’t always forget those that went through the long dark tunnel. To do other otherwise would be leaving too many unanswered threads in the series. So, even though, to my slight disappointment, Rusty didn’t appear in today’s program, it always leaves the opportunity that he’ll make his appearance one more on the show. After all, Whit said himself—he has a grudge on Odyssey. He wants to get a reaction. Apparently, he feels some need for revenge against the people of the town. Could the series put this to good use in the future? I certainly think so. This also answers why “The Election Deception” aired last weekend—to remind us fans of who exactly Rusty was. Looking at the bigger picture, maybe it’s lining Rusty up for bigger and more exciting purposes on the show! Stretching things, is it? Perhaps…
The third storyline evolving from this episode would be Connie’s book. Though I don’t see any purpose for this in future episodes, it sure did sound like she’ll be working on it in the future (simply in the manner Chris mentioned it at the end of the show.)
A few remarks on the dialogue. Some of it; (such as today’s quote) was good and original. Other parts were a bit clichéd and not funny (Connie’s “stinky” talk). I feel Eugene’s usual rampage and going crazy is being a bit overdone lately. However, I’m sure that it’ll all change once they touch on every aspect of his character for the newer listeners. I am, on the other hand, becoming a bit weary of Connie, for what reason I don’t know. I don’t think Odyssey needs to play her up more than she needs to be.
A few positive remarks of the show included the originality. In all my days, I would’ve never have thought of Eugene as a Janitor. Truly, that’s a new angle that I’d never had thought about. Also, I found it interesting that every person played his or her part interestingly enough through how Rusty described him or her. It’s only natural that Eugene reacted the way he did through his description, as well as Liz, and indeed, Connie’s description was the funniest of all. In the end, it’s interesting how Connie was the mature one of the bunch (situation-wise not character-wise). Even Whit’s reaction to his choice of pants was amusing, even though I never thought he’d react in that certain way (who knew he was so self conscience when it comes to looks). However, it seems strange that Eugene was caught twice indirectly giving fashion tips.
The episode elaborated on the whole, “two storylines, wrapping together cleanly into one at the end”, and made it better (even though I’m growing tired of that style). Every single character had their own little plot. Overall the storyline was hugely fantastic, and was the best one (aside from the three part-er) of the season. It showed the creativity and ingenuity of the entire Odyssey team.
Wait, since when is Marshall Younger into bathroom humor?
Now, if let’s view this show to where it was placed in the series. It’s the whole bounciness, and craziness, and everything “up in the air” that bugs me. Anyone else notice it? I mean, it actually worked on this show and made it funny and comical at times, however, the fact that it followed a series of these types of slice-of-life shows (thankfully “Always” aired last week) is what makes things tiresome. I mean, take a look at all these scenes in the episode that didn’t require music in the background. They were just talking normally. Nothing big was happening. Why have this wonderful orchestra clashing with amazement, when people are discussing ideas for a debate? I know it’s a kid’s show, and Odyssey is trying new ways of making things frantic and appealing but why fix something that isn’t broken? Look at the 95, 96, 97 years, they were extremely serious shows, but brought about the highest interest in its fans. Afterall, I should know—I was a kid back then.
In the end, I suppose my opinion on this episode will have to remain partially undecided considering how the rest of the season goes. If this tradition continues, which it most certainly will with next week being Kathy Wierenga’s “A Christmas Conundrum”, then I’ll start liking this episode less then the reasonable amount I already do (go back, read twice).
But, wait a minute; things were ALSO “up in the air” in “Peace on Earth”! However, they were done so in a realistic manner, without including any crazy music to appeal kids. So, there shouldn’t be any reason to think next week will continue this bizarre tradition in slice of life shows…
…right?
However, as a note, I’d like to commend the Odyssey team for remaining so constant and accurate throughout the shows these days. The series has been running smoothly with constant storylines…and none the more then the last two seasons. Rumor has it, that you have much more up your sleeve. So, to all you fans wondering where this is all going please remain faithful and appreciate every episode as it comes. Criticize and make comments, but as long as your doing so in order to improve the already good quality of Adventures in Odyssey.
Acting/dialogue: 3/5
Story/Originality: 4.2/5
Use of Characters: 4.2/5
Series Relevance: 4.2/5
Personal enjoyment/Entertainment Value: 4/5
Total: 19.6 /25= 78.4%= SCORE:GOOD+
(Rating Grid:
0%=Poison
0-20%=Complete Failure
20-40%=Very Poor
40-60%=Poor
60-70%=Average
70-80%=Good
80-90%=Very Good
90-100%=Terrific
100%=Perfect)
For additional Reviews agreed by the author, please refer to:
Memorable Quotes:
Eugene: (Sighs) Very well. If the Basement Furnace room is where I have to go to escape recognition, then that is where I should go. (Grunts, unlocks door) Oh my! This place does need a good cleaning! (Sniffs) Wait a minute… (Sniff-sniff)What’s that smell?
[Loud fire trucks drive down the street, blazing their horns, followed by police cars and reporters]
Reporter: Excuse me—excuse me, sir!
Eugene: Uh, yes?
Reporter: Turner Ward, Odyssey Times Reporter. Are you man who reported the gas leak in the basement of the Odyssey middles school?
Eugene: (sighs) Yes…
Reporter: Then tell me—how does it feel to have save hundreds of lives?
Eugene: Great…just great.
Writer: Marshall Younger(#105)
Sound Designer: Nathan Jones
??
Title: Between Rusty and John Campbell
Characters:
Major: (greater than 30 eps)
Whit(#384)
Connie (#272)
Eugene(#172)
Mandy (#41)
Minor: (less than 30 eps)
Liz(#23)
Trent(#12)
I had the impression this would be a mystery rather than a slice of life
I felt, at first and throughout this episode, that the mood was too “bouncy”. Odyssey music has evolved so much throughout the period of Odyssey, and it is what contributes to the overall feel of the show. I mean, if Odyssey decided to go back to the old music and keep the same storylines, then the series would improve so much. I’m not saying every new Odyssey show is like this, but what with the new side the show is revealing these days; I’m getting the impression from a few scenes that we’re returning to the 1999 split-episode age again. Because, honestly, that’s the feel I’m getting.
Luckily, it’s practically just the music.
Before you dismiss this review as a fan that is in a bad mood and always dissatisfied with the series, and always wishing that the series would go back to the way it used to—please read on. Because, of course, I’m the furthest away from that type of fan. First of all, I believe in progression. I believe that if a character has evolved from being so “intellectually bright that it takes control of himself” that they shouldn’t keep going back to how the character was just for the sake of old times. I’m not necessarily saying that that’s what they did with Eugene, but it sure sounds like they bordered on that.
The thing is, I don’t mind these episode once in a while. Let’s say, for example, that we’re midway throughout the “Risks and Rewards” Era/Season (an excellent period in Odyssey), and we turn on the radio to listen to the episode that aired today. Let me review this episode in that circumstance (not taking into consideration that it would awkward from the rest of the season);
The storyline was very well written and intelligent. It was an all-favorite cast and a well-produced slice of life storyline. It was nice to hear from Liz and Mandy once more, as well as Trent. With every episode that passes, I always wonder if it’ll be the day where the team decides to take out Liz and Mandy, and dismissing them as being too old for the show. However, could it be that this show just helped them in staying for a little while longer?
I’m sure that the rest of my fellow-reviewers noticed that the show didn’t touch on why exactly Mandy was in a grumpy mood. It was only until I re-listened to the show that I realized that she remained that way from the very beginning—though, it’s hard to really notice at first. Perhaps it was just meant for the sake of the program, but, and yes I’m taking a large stab in a very dark space; I thought they were trying to evolve the romance between Mandy and Trent. Was it possible that Mandy was too shy around Trent, and suddenly, becoming too shy, decided to drop out of the team to avoid embarrassment? Either that, or their was some other misfortune that struck her life. Again, the show never touched on what was eating her. Strange. Hopefully, it was actually something.
Speaking of storylines, it was a stroke of genius for Odyssey to re-use these old characters. This time, it was done in such a way without actually having us hear from the character. Rusty, in my opinion, was probably the most intimidating bully in Odyssey. He acted, and played the bully so perfectly, that I wished that he could stay on the show for longer. Either that, or take over the lead of the bones of Wrath. As a matter of fact, one of my first attempted Odyssey scripts was one where Rusty came back to town, but he and Rodney found that they didn’t have anything more in common—in a way that made Rodney look like a good guy, and, in the end, Rusty takes over the gang. Anyways, it is nice to hear where the characters are at now in life. Even though we still follow Whit, Connie, Eugene, and many others, Odyssey shouldn’t always forget those that went through the long dark tunnel. To do other otherwise would be leaving too many unanswered threads in the series. So, even though, to my slight disappointment, Rusty didn’t appear in today’s program, it always leaves the opportunity that he’ll make his appearance one more on the show. After all, Whit said himself—he has a grudge on Odyssey. He wants to get a reaction. Apparently, he feels some need for revenge against the people of the town. Could the series put this to good use in the future? I certainly think so. This also answers why “The Election Deception” aired last weekend—to remind us fans of who exactly Rusty was. Looking at the bigger picture, maybe it’s lining Rusty up for bigger and more exciting purposes on the show! Stretching things, is it? Perhaps…
The third storyline evolving from this episode would be Connie’s book. Though I don’t see any purpose for this in future episodes, it sure did sound like she’ll be working on it in the future (simply in the manner Chris mentioned it at the end of the show.)
A few remarks on the dialogue. Some of it; (such as today’s quote) was good and original. Other parts were a bit clichéd and not funny (Connie’s “stinky” talk). I feel Eugene’s usual rampage and going crazy is being a bit overdone lately. However, I’m sure that it’ll all change once they touch on every aspect of his character for the newer listeners. I am, on the other hand, becoming a bit weary of Connie, for what reason I don’t know. I don’t think Odyssey needs to play her up more than she needs to be.
A few positive remarks of the show included the originality. In all my days, I would’ve never have thought of Eugene as a Janitor. Truly, that’s a new angle that I’d never had thought about. Also, I found it interesting that every person played his or her part interestingly enough through how Rusty described him or her. It’s only natural that Eugene reacted the way he did through his description, as well as Liz, and indeed, Connie’s description was the funniest of all. In the end, it’s interesting how Connie was the mature one of the bunch (situation-wise not character-wise). Even Whit’s reaction to his choice of pants was amusing, even though I never thought he’d react in that certain way (who knew he was so self conscience when it comes to looks). However, it seems strange that Eugene was caught twice indirectly giving fashion tips.
The episode elaborated on the whole, “two storylines, wrapping together cleanly into one at the end”, and made it better (even though I’m growing tired of that style). Every single character had their own little plot. Overall the storyline was hugely fantastic, and was the best one (aside from the three part-er) of the season. It showed the creativity and ingenuity of the entire Odyssey team.
Wait, since when is Marshall Younger into bathroom humor?
Now, if let’s view this show to where it was placed in the series. It’s the whole bounciness, and craziness, and everything “up in the air” that bugs me. Anyone else notice it? I mean, it actually worked on this show and made it funny and comical at times, however, the fact that it followed a series of these types of slice-of-life shows (thankfully “Always” aired last week) is what makes things tiresome. I mean, take a look at all these scenes in the episode that didn’t require music in the background. They were just talking normally. Nothing big was happening. Why have this wonderful orchestra clashing with amazement, when people are discussing ideas for a debate? I know it’s a kid’s show, and Odyssey is trying new ways of making things frantic and appealing but why fix something that isn’t broken? Look at the 95, 96, 97 years, they were extremely serious shows, but brought about the highest interest in its fans. Afterall, I should know—I was a kid back then.
In the end, I suppose my opinion on this episode will have to remain partially undecided considering how the rest of the season goes. If this tradition continues, which it most certainly will with next week being Kathy Wierenga’s “A Christmas Conundrum”, then I’ll start liking this episode less then the reasonable amount I already do (go back, read twice).
But, wait a minute; things were ALSO “up in the air” in “Peace on Earth”! However, they were done so in a realistic manner, without including any crazy music to appeal kids. So, there shouldn’t be any reason to think next week will continue this bizarre tradition in slice of life shows…
…right?
However, as a note, I’d like to commend the Odyssey team for remaining so constant and accurate throughout the shows these days. The series has been running smoothly with constant storylines…and none the more then the last two seasons. Rumor has it, that you have much more up your sleeve. So, to all you fans wondering where this is all going please remain faithful and appreciate every episode as it comes. Criticize and make comments, but as long as your doing so in order to improve the already good quality of Adventures in Odyssey.
Acting/dialogue: 3/5
Story/Originality: 4.2/5
Use of Characters: 4.2/5
Series Relevance: 4.2/5
Personal enjoyment/Entertainment Value: 4/5
Total: 19.6 /25= 78.4%= SCORE:GOOD+
(Rating Grid:
0%=Poison
0-20%=Complete Failure
20-40%=Very Poor
40-60%=Poor
60-70%=Average
70-80%=Good
80-90%=Very Good
90-100%=Terrific
100%=Perfect)
For additional Reviews agreed by the author, please refer to:
Memorable Quotes:
Eugene: (Sighs) Very well. If the Basement Furnace room is where I have to go to escape recognition, then that is where I should go. (Grunts, unlocks door) Oh my! This place does need a good cleaning! (Sniffs) Wait a minute… (Sniff-sniff)What’s that smell?
[Loud fire trucks drive down the street, blazing their horns, followed by police cars and reporters]
Reporter: Excuse me—excuse me, sir!
Eugene: Uh, yes?
Reporter: Turner Ward, Odyssey Times Reporter. Are you man who reported the gas leak in the basement of the Odyssey middles school?
Eugene: (sighs) Yes…
Reporter: Then tell me—how does it feel to have save hundreds of lives?
Eugene: Great…just great.