This week’s Burn Notice had a nifty double-crossing-a-kidnapper plot, but its real purpose was to introduce a new enemy for Jeffrey Donovan’s Michael Weston. She’s Miami cop Michelle Paxon (the woozily-named Moon Bloodgood, from Terminator Salvation). Paxon was labeled “Michael’s Worst Nightmare” right there on the TV screen, so we know her investigation of Michael as an undercover spy will be ongoing. Here’s their first scene together from this episode:
Now, I’m guardedly optimistic about this development, but wary: Remember how last season, Tricia Helfer’s Carla character dragged down the action? Frankly, if I was Gabrielle Anwar, I’d be pissed: Why does Burn keep introducing women that are supposed to flirt with Michael in a tough-gal way and distract his attention from his other cases? That’s what Anwar’s Fiona is there for, and she does it well. (In fact, Fiona seems re-energized as a character this season so far.) I’m glad Michael muttered of Paxon, “I am not her type.” She might not be ours, either, but we’ll see what happens. Oh, well: Still a good episode. Lots of Sam hitting Michael when they assumed other identities. Nice birthday scene at the end, with Fiona giving Michael a bayonet as a gift.
What did you think of this week’s Burn Notice? Any gut reactions to Officer Paxon?
Love it, can’t wait for next weeks episode.
Even better than last week’s episode…even though I’m pretty sure that the double crossed kidnapper was used before in the series.
Jury’s out for me. Bloodgood just doesn’t bring a lot to the table as an actress. She plays it the same whether it was 8 Below, Journeyman, Terminator or now Burn Notice. We’ll see how it plays out.
so far the character seems way too slick, she’s at a Carla/Michael level of smug knowingness, as a cop she should be much grittier, rougher, like Dexter’s sister.
The way Michael smiled after he unwrapped Fi’s gift and it didn’t blow up (as he half made it look like he expected it to) was the perfect encapsulation of what makes this show enjoyable–finely drawn characters, great acting and sharp writing and directing. That why it probably will be canceled before it’s time. Enjoy it while it lasts.
I’m actually more psyched about the return of Jay Karnes. That dude is the smuggest, smarmiest most entertaining despicable villain that Michael’s run across. And I hope he gets in a three or four episode arc.
Speaking of Dexter’s sister, they should have casted Jennifer Carpenter to play the cop. Nothing against Moon and the more Burn shows hot women the better, but for her to persistently dog Michael, I hope they don’t drag this show down again. I barely watched Season 2 (Watching Mad Men instead) and I really am looking forward to watching this show in the Summertime. It is great escapism. Plus Pushing Daisies is all but gone.
I understand the writers thinking and the need for Michael to have a major foil but…I’m not sure she can pull it off.
She looked to me to be smirking through her entire role. There was no heat at all between them so I hope that isn’t why they brought her on. So far she is just a distraction.
I have a bias, I love the show no matter what. But I hope Office Paxon doesn’t bring down the action like Carla did.
I’m not sure if Anwar should be upset. She must know the Fiona will always be Michael’s number 1 girl. We’ll see I guess. And I liked the gift at the end too.
the best show on TV!!!
I can’t stand the new character.
This already feels old. Why is this character necessary? I didn’t particularly care for Carla, so I doubt Carla 2.0 is going to be any better.
Clearly I’m a minority. I liked the Paxson character, and I thought she and Michael showed more chemistry in their couple of scenes together than Michael and Fiona have in all 2.2 seasons. Then again, I never saw any chemistry between Michael and Fi. Fi annoys me no end.
I don’t think Paxon is supposed to be a major villain for Michael, just a minor irritant as his life gets more complicated. Truthfully there’s not much for Moon to do so far except look semi-imposing. If we get more on her, perhaps I can analyze, but I’ll save criticisms for when she has more back story. And I actually enjoyed Carla once she was put into the pressure cooker. Gabrielle has nothing to worry about as far as other women. She’s cemented Fiona as the number one (and best) gal for Michael and I don’t think anyone can challenge that–especially because Fiona is so interesting and unique. I never get tired of her characterization. Fans needn’t worry for now about cancellation. Burn Notice is at it’s highest ratings ever and is a hit for syndication. So long as the story doesn’t go further south than Miami, it’s good.