What a gem this show was. Honestly, I used to mark it as the best thing on network television during its run, if it wasn't at the top spot it was certainly a heavy contender for the title. The show manages to have an on going story while keeping each episode fairly self contained and enjoyable in its own right. So, while there is clear progression in terms of plot and character development, a new viewer can jump in and enjoy an episode without being overwhelmed by backstory. The characters are fun and feel like real people, even when it seems like they're venturing into over the top territory.
The show plays with spy movie tropes, but for me, the geek humor steals the show when it comes to laughs. Considering most of the characters are geeks and nerds, they are able to poke fun while not being mean spirited. The title character himself is something of a geek, which makes him all the more relatable.
Even the non-geek characters like Sarah and Casey are likable and you enjoy seeing them interact with the other characters. Casey, in particular, makes a great foil for both Chuck and Morgan.
While most television shows drop the ball on action sequences, this one manages to pull them off very well. The fights are well choreographed and the big showdowns are pulse pounding and suspenseful.
It's not the most "enlightened" point to bring up when discussing this show, but Yvonne Strahovski? Yowza, "gorgeous" does not do that woman justice. It boggles the mind how attractive she is. Kudos to the writers for managing to provide tasteful fan service while not reducing the character to just eye candy.
The writers also managed to find that perfect balance in terms of unresolved sexual tension. One of the mistakes that shows like Bones and The X-Files make is dragging that "will they or won't they" period out too long to the point where, by the time it happens, you don't care anymore. Yes, they do that for the first couple of seasons, but then they actually get together and, at this point in the show, are engaged. That's right, character growth. Those two aren't the only ones who have it either, which is even more refreshing.
I can't sing this show's praises enough. It's a joy to watch and it needs a larger following. There were a few points where it seemed like the show was on the verge of cancellation. Luckily, it's loyal fans (as well as Subway) helped keep it on the air. I think it's pretty safe now, at least for a while, but even putting that aside, you should start watching this show for the simple fact that it's really, really good. For all of the talk that there's nothing good on TV, this show proves otherwise as it is an utter delight.
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