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ARTICLE
Grade: A


Television Review: Hellcats, "Back of a Car"
by R.J. Carter
Published: November 2, 2010

The CW's "cheerleading drama" just got a whole lot more dramatic, and it's moving well beyond being a mere "cheerleading drama."

As the anniversary of the Hellcats approaches, despite the threat of funding cuts, Savannah (Ashley Tisdale) decides that the wait is over, and is ready to "cut down the cherry tree" with Dan (Matt Barr). But it's still got to be a special evening, and for her that means more planning than most women put into their wedding. Plus, she's still harboring doubts that her friend, Marti (Aly Michalka), may have feelings of her own for Dan, despite Marti's protestations to the contrary.

Dan is also given reason to think that perhaps Marti has been carrying a secret torch for him, but Marti firmly plants herself in the arms of her teammate, Lewis (Robbie Jones).

As a sideplot, Marti and her law student partner Morgan continue their investigation into a convicted prisoner's situation. Marti is convinced the man is wrongly convicted, and following the chain of evidence leads to a terse confrontation and a disturbing happening after the anniversary Spirit Party.


I Love the 80s!: Hellcats celebrate their anniversary.
Photo: Sergei Bachlakov/The CW ©2010 The CW
Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Speaking of that party, that's part of the fun of this episode. The party has an 80s theme, and the costumes and music really go all out. Every scene is worth picking apart to see what 80s icons you can identify, and the soundtrack is a welcome blast from the past. It's also the scene of even more drama, though, as Alice (Heather Hemmens) uses the event to talk to a reporter about the Hellcats' diverted funding, which doesn't sit well with her football player boyfriend. It's a scene that also has this reviewer thinking that Alice may have bitten off more than she can chew, in more ways than one if the sparkle in the female reporter's eyes isn't being misinterpreted.

The real OMG moment, however, happens during the final scene, and I can't even give you a hint about what happens there. Suffice it to say, a friendship, a heart, and a Hellcat are about to be crushed to pulp. You don't want to miss this one!

Hellcats, "Back of a Car" debuts Wednesday, November 3rd, at 9pm | 8pm CT on the CW Network.


 
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