Television Review: Reaper, "The Sweet Science"
by R.J. Carter
Published: March 17, 2009
Subplots reign supreme in this week's Reaper, which sees a couple of shake-ups in the status quo. Ben (Rick Gonzalez) is dating a demon who formerly tried to kill Sam (Bret Harrison), so he's naturally reluctant to introduce her to his buddies.
Meanwhile, at The Work Bench, Andi (Missy Peregrym) has been promoted to store manager, and she's bringing a whole new style to running the place. Unfortunately, she soon uncovers something about Sock (Tyler Labine) that gives her the options of either firing him -- or killing him. The latter is the only option that works, and you'll just have to tune in to see why that is, in an episode that will have WKRP in Cincinnati fans feeling wistful.
Of course, as with every episode, the main focus is on the latest soul Sam is tasked with recapturing, and this time the Devil (Ray Wise) wants the return of an escaped boxer who came very close to winning the championship before throwing a fight for money. The only way Sam can conquer this soul is to face him one-on-one in the ring. But does Sam even want to return this soul (as if he had a choice)?
Highlights of this episode include the Devil running an AA meeting in a way that should have Friends of Bill everywhere cringing once they get past the laughing, and a training exercise Sock develops for Sam involving an athletic cup and a pitching machine.
While "The Sweet Science" is perhaps not as intense as previous episodes, Reaper continues to be one of the most highly entertaining shows on the CW. Bad has never been so good.
Reaper, "The Sweet Science" airs on the CW March 3, 8:00pm/7:00pm CT.
|
|
