Revenge 1×18 ‘Justice’ review: Baby, it’s cold outside

Holy death fake outs, Batman! How many times are they going to try to trick us with Daniel’s faux death? I mean, did we really need a minute sequence with him writing out a note to then transition to a shot of someone hanging themselves? C’mon!

Before I begin, I should mention that Brianna — who was supposed to review Revenge and did so for one episode — shot me an email yesterday. Due to circumstance, I believe I will be taking over her NWN responsibilities for this show, since she is busy with “life” or whatever. So, moving on…

I’ve mentioned this countless times before, but I truly believe Revenge is the best new (broadcast network) show of the season (the overall best new show is Homeland, obviously). And tonight’s episode only reaffirmed that fact for me. Now, the show has begun to morph from something that was the perfect summer guilty pleasure during fall to a more dark, ominous web of deceit…transitioning with the weather as well. Winter in spring. The more stark personality is definitely evident as we’re no longer dealing with Real Amanda exposing extramarital affairs — but instead, setting up people for murder.

For the basis of the show, however (and for my own sanity), I will say that we’re just going to have to ‘go with it’ and not ask so many questions as to whether or not the audience is rooting the fact that she basically signed that guy’s death certificate, indirectly. Just think about it: how much less have you been sort of praising Amanda whenever her schemes round out so well? I mean, I’m still like “dang, homegirl got this!” but not so much like “whoa! that was crazily fun!” You know?

Well, anyway, the guy was a douche regardless. And I sort of like what this current scheme of Amanda’s proves of her feelings for both Jack and Daniel. I’m going to level with you, the sparks between Real Amanda and Jack are about as bright as the night stars in the middle of Times Square.

Not. At. All.

They have about as much chemistry as an English class. But I’ll stop right there, because I’m like 99% sure everyone and their mother loves that pairing more. I’ll just reiterate that I’m glad it doesn’t tip the balance in one way more than the other. I would have been upset if they continued down a path Amanda deeply in love with Jack…and using Daniel as part of her revenge plot.

Both of her suitors, however, are being ridiculous. C’mon, Jack — really? Keeping this evidence for the girl who ran off with millions? No. And Daniel, are you seriously going to risk jail just to shove your fiancee? I’ll just mention that I like the execution of Daniel’s dark side thus far, my favorite being in the post-shooting episode when we didn’t exactly know if he shot Tyler or not.

Meanwhile, Victoria has some sort of significant love with an artist who paints her like one of his french girls and it’s nothing but hilarious, to be honest. Ashley is, once again, relegated to one line, which upsets me because I really thought she was going to start ‘playing the game.’ Noland’s relationships with everyone are still flawless. I’m creeped out at Victoria telling her daughter to whore herself out — but once again, I admire the determination with the Graysons. Though, it seems Charlotte is spiraling down the drain even more, which is a storyline that makes sense considering what the character has gone through and the amount of pressure put on her…but I can only hope it doesn’t just happen for the sake of it. That’s sort of how I feel about Victoria’s artist love(r).

But, truthfully, what I love about Revenge is when it gives Amanda yet another reason to continue exacting her plotting. Finding out that the Graysons had her father murdered just makes it that much sweeter. But, also, that much more dark. Am I ready for it?

Um, yes. That’s, like, not even a question, you guys.

Overall, another solid installment. What did you guys think about it?

Image source: SpoilerTV