FanPost

FARGO: Buridan's Ass

Sorry, this is a day or two late. I didn't get to see this episode when it aired Tuesday night. And given the time we are all spending trying to keep up with the Love, Joerger and playoffs threads, I don't know that anyone will have much interest in Fargo. But if anyone is game, at least there will be a place for discussion.

I'll keep this brief.

First, I have to say that I was really impressed with the way they used the blizzard. Visually and dramatically, the whiteout conditions made for a unique, odd and tense atmosphere, the way people appeared and disappeared like ghosts.

But even though this series at times features top notch directing, acting, cinematography and editing, to me it all adds up to a slick pastiche that is all sizzle and no steak.

Maybe it's the company it keeps in my viewing rotation: Sunday, Mad Men. Monday, Louie. Wednesdays, The Americans (which had a fantastic season ending episode last night, by the way). It's like going from watching the Heat, the Spurs, the Thunder to the Golden Gophers. Nothing wrong with Big 10 hoops - but it ain't world class.

I am not one who flinches from gore or from big, over the top production. But I found the falling fish too "Magnolia"; the extended killing of Chumph gratuitously violent and uninvolving emotionally; and the shocker of Molly getting shot to be akin to a 10 year old who can belt out Adele's "Someone Like You" note for note but without the raw, earned pain in the voice. Empty.

I guess I have a lot more to say, but let me end here. I can add to this in the comments if needed. As always, chime in as you wish.