There were a lot of offers thrown around this week's episode of Big Shots and, fortunately for us, none of them had to do with transsexual call girls or little black books. Hooray!

Spoilers below!

The A-Plot:
Duncan's still making a push for Lizzie but she tells him she's exclusively with Terrence now and asks if they can just be friends. He dodges the question. He then buys her a sports car to replace the car that died (the car Cam was conceived in, apparently) the next day. She storms into Duncan's office to tell him to stop. He tells her if she says she doesn't love him anymore, he'll leave her alone. And man, does Lizzie tell him. She also tells him not to come to her birthday party. Ouch. Later that night, after drowning his sorrows with the guys and being put in a cab by Karl, Super Drunk Duncan goes to Lizzie's house and decides he's going to take his sports car back. He finds the keys and, after going through a few of her vacation pictures and drawing horns and a goatee on Terrence's face, goes into the garage. Now, driving while intoxicated is a bad idea, but he lucks out and doesn't kill anyone...well, almost anyone. See, Super Drunk Duncan passes out right after he starts the car. While it's still in the garage. With the doors closed. Don't you just hate it when that happens? When Lizzie comes home some time later and is unable to wake him, she calls an ambulance and tells them her ex just tried to kill himself. When Duncan wakes up in the hospital, Lizzie tells him how foolish he was and lavishes him with affection...until he tells her the truth. She gets ticked and leaves as James, Karl and Brody come in. They ask why he seems so happy and it's because he now knows that, despite what Lizzie says, she still loves him. Cut to the party she uninvited him to (that, of course, he crashes). Terrence goes on stage to give a toast as Lizzie sees Duncan out of the corner of her eye. When she goes to talk to him, he says he understands what the problem was - that he was hesitant - and assures her there is no problem anymore...and proposes, ring in hand. Elizabeth laments their bad timing and stops speaking just in time for Duncan to hear Terrence's announcement - he proposed on they way there and she accepted. Bad timing indeed.

The B-Plot:
At a media mixer designed to foster good publicity and therefore get more Board members on James and Katie's side, James catches Alex Mason (Elizabeth Rohm - Law & Order, Angel) - the host of cable's most watched financial show - snooping in his office. James asks her out to dinner and she accepts. Only problem is that night on her show she advises everyone to dump their AmeriMart stock and then has the nerve to call him afterward to confirm their date. She tells him that she's good at separating business and pleasure and hits on him overtly...of course he caves, but he says he'll only go if he can defend the decisions she was just bashing. They go to dinner, he sells his concepts and she says she'll recant her doomsday call if her research confirms his claims and flirt...and end up back at one of their places, making out on the couch. Alex interrupts to tell him that if they sleep together, she won't be able to voice a retraction on her show - it's a fuzzy ethical line she won't cross. Part of James doesn't care, but the part of him that's smart says that he "owes the board a vote." Being the smart cookie she is, Alex offers him a chance to appear and explain his side of things personally so they can both have their cake and and sleep together too. The next morning at the office, Ed (who I assume is the head of Public Relations or something - he's the one who set up the media mixer) comes into Katie's office in a panic as he's just heard James is going to be on Alex's show. Ed explains that Alex has a history of tricking big business dudes on her show and submarining them, so Katie better track James down and yank him off that set. Only it's too late - Katie calls James as the twenty-second countdown to air starts. Once the show begins, naturally Alex goes for his jugular as Katie and Ed watch. James sits there silently for a moment and then says the name of a company. He then goes on to list several more and how Alex told everyone to sell their shares right before they made big gains, all this from a supposed market expert. The not-so-subtly implied meaning being that AmeriMart's stocks are currently down but they'll turn around quickly. Alex glowers at him a bit and, after the show when he asks her to dinner again, James gets to throw her business/pleasure line back at her. Alex isn't the only smart cookie. And a note to the producers/writers: We all know that James isn't going to get a steady girlfriend, he's not even divorced yet and is still healing from his whorey, back-stabbing wife's betrayal (plus there's the whole Katie thing). I get it, I understand. But if you're going to have him traipsing about with a different woman every week, at least show him without his shirt on. Michael Vartan is a fine and talented actor...and the majority of us want to see the goods. We've seen everybody else's several times and fair is fair. Thanks.

Other Highlights & Tidbits:

• Wendy wants to have a baby but she and Karl have had problems conceiving (they tried 5 years prior with no luck and a lot of heartache). They visit a fertility doctor (Marla included) and their prospects are just as grim. Wendy and Marla later present Karl with a plan - Marla of the Crazy Eyes  will be their surrogate. When Wendy finds out her "eggs aren't viable," she decides that she wants the baby to be at least part theirs and tells Karl to impregnate Marla. Wow. Really? Wouldn't adoption be...less creepy? Now we know Karl has a track record for falling for the loonies. They really are squeezing as much as they can from this whole situation.
• Brody wasn't in the episode much. Boo! I'm actually surprised how much I like him given he is the potentially most one-dimensional character on the show (Karl seems to have inherited that mantle). But I gotta give props to Christopher Titus. He's really working what the writers are giving him.
• Quote of the Night: "This is who you hired? Where'd you find him, Facebook?" - Duncan to Cam upon meeting Zack, the assistant she hired on last week's episode
• Speaking of Zack (who's name I don't recall hearing this episode - or am I wrong? - thank goodness for IMDB), he exhibited some scary stalker like behavior by remembering a suit he saw Duncan wear in an issue of Vanity Fair months ago and the woman he was with when Duncan asked Cam which suit he should crash Lizzie's party in. Between that, and Zack volunteering to stock Duncan's empty aquarium and partially for not kissing her the night before when they went out, Cam fired him. The next morning Zack came in to explain himself. Turns out he is/may be Duncan illegitimate son. Ah, yes. The good old illegitimate son. I should've known. That's a good addition to Duncan's web of storylines. So much better than that whole solicitation thing which I'm incredibly thankful hasn't even been a blip on the radar tonight. Let's hope they keep that nasty bit of business resolved.
• Zack's presence could mean a whole new set of complications in Duncan's quest to win back Lizzie as Zack and Cam seem to be very close in age. Oops. Bad Duncan, bad!
• Duncan's supposed suicide attempt isn't good publicity for Reveal and the Board isn't too happy about it. I expect this to pop up in a much bigger way sometime soon.
• I like Paul Blackthorne. He's talented and pretty. It's a shame The Dresden Files wasn't a better show.

What do we think of this whole Duncan/Lizzie/Terrence triangle? How icky must Cam feel now that she knows she wanted to make out with a guy that's potentially her brother? Why can't Brody get his own storyline? And did I forget to mention something awesome?

Comments

I loved the show tonight. It was the best paced of the season and deserves a second look from those of you who may have missed it. It really was like a male version of Desperate Housewives and to see the men and their emotional drama was great. I am officially on baord with Big Shots after tonight and highly recommend the show.

michael | Nov 1, 2007 10:31:12 PM | #

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Loving this show... I could see every plot twist coming from a mile, and it was still great.

AC | Nov 1, 2007 10:45:50 PM | #

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Btw, the Ed character, I think he said at the beginning that he was a part of the board when he was talking to James and Katie early.

It's a shame that Christopher Titus hasn't been given anything more interesting. He's arguably the most interesting character to me so far. To be honest, I half wonder why James isn't the lead character. I mean, it's supposed to be an ensemble, but clearly Dylan McDermott's Duncan is the lead man so far. I'd much rather be interested in having the story be centered around James learning to adapt to being a single father and running a company than about the stereotypical exploits of a frat boy CEO (basically) trying to grow up. This is no fault of Dylan McDermott's, who I think hasn't been given much to work with.

On a side note, I might be one of the few watchers that missed Wendy Moniz. Don't know ... yeah she was the backstabber ... but I was intrigued by her character. At the very least, I wish they would've given the time to try and build a backstory in there (rather than all the Duncan stuff). Show something. Either Wendy Moniz's character was a golddigger ... or something was happening in her and James' marriage that led to that point. It's never black and white ... and yet that's how they want to paint it.

I like the show. I do. But they spend so much time on some stories. Like Karl. Let's get it over with already. Once they mentioned pregnancy ... you could see the whole "sleep with her for me" angle developing.

I'm not sure how I feel about the whole illegitimate child angle. Sorta could see that one too once he talked about the suit and Vanity Fair. Seemed like the only logical conclusion. What's the growth factor for Duncan? I mean, hell, a storyline about him impregnating some girl a few months ago would've been more interesting to me. At the very least, it gave the character a potential for huge change. That is, they could've worked with Duncan wanting a 2nd chance or something like that. This storyline seems likely to tie back into the whole Lizzie/Duncan thing ... where the endgame (and I hope I'm wrong) is Duncan and her getting back together.

Tis a shame Paul Blackthorne isn't given much. He could be a much more intriguing character. When he was hired, wasn't he supposed to be the CEO these guys looked up to? They certainly haven't played it that way so far. Looks like Nia Long's Katie is going to be the girl there for James when he's done sleeping with all the girls he can. Although maybe Elizabeth Rohm's character sticks around for another episode.

All in all, eh, I wasn't a huge fan of the episode. It was alright. I like the show ... but I hope things get better. Haven't checked to see how it's doing in the ratings. And could they PLEASE get them another set other than that country club? Seriously. They are there every night it seems.

Tony | Nov 2, 2007 12:12:44 AM | #

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Oh, yes... James is healing alright, one new bed buddy at a time!

It doesn't look like he was 'mourning' the end of his marriage too much in last night's episode, at least not like he asked Stacey to try to in in the previous. But then again, of course he'd turn down her attempts to reconcile (cheating aside) - for if he'd accept, it would be only one more detour off the road that leads him to Katie Graham's door. For one reason or another, I think the Walkers definitely had a three-person marriage, long before Walter Storrs set his eyes on the Mrs.

Like Tony above, I definitely wish we had a little more to go on with their story. I would've happily sacrificed those nauseating moments of a shirtless Karl, the torrid pages of Dontrelle's book, or yet another demanding phone call from Brody's Janelle just to get some in sight as to what the Walkers *may have* had before the affair.

MCGradGirl | Nov 2, 2007 4:22:03 AM | #

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Last night's episode was great. People who dismissed the show after the pilot really need to go to abc.com and watch last night's episode. The pace was great and I love how the guys are with each other. My guess is that Terrence has something to do with Zack showing up, and true he does seem to be about the same age as Cameron. This should make Lisbeth even more upset with Duncan and hurt which would of course make her turn to Terrence.

Dawn | Nov 2, 2007 4:47:01 AM | #

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I definitely think we need to get more backstory on James and can we please put his story in the foreground!

James' comments to the TV personality were great - loved Vartan being snarky, more of that would be very welcome.

Brody didn't have a lot last night, but his line about "this used to be more fun" was well delivered and funny.

I'm really liking the guys together. The show has come a long way since the pilot.

ABC is such a tease, we were promised James playing pool in the preview - I demand a do-over!!

SouthernGal | Nov 2, 2007 6:12:14 AM | #

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Oh, I disagree with you about The Dresden Files! This show was absolutely one of my favorites when it was still on, and even still now. It was a wonderful romp through the world of magic, wit and memory's influence over the present. I really miss it. A rebirth of the show (with Paul Blackthorne as Harry, of course!) would be nothing short of fantastic. =)

If anyone else agrees, there are quite a few resources available to help bring the Dresden Files back, such as addresses to "The Powers That Be" at http://www.dresdencity.org/Renewal/Renewal.html or just general info on renewal at http://thebluewhale.darkshadows-resurrected.com/viewforum.php?f=20&sid=1432b1360a54fe96b7174dcd1bae2913 .

C | Nov 2, 2007 10:20:38 AM | #

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Tamara, totally agree with your comments re Michael Vartan- his being a fine and talented actor (amen, amen) and "where's the beef?" (my editorializing). I have been so bewildered at all the other guys having their shirts off (well and good ) but why not the hottest hunk on the show??
Re someone's comment: I think james' story IS supposed to be the lead - he is the "moral center" of the show and Vartan was the first and only actor cast for quite awhile. McDermott was the last guy to sign on. I was under the impression the show was built around Vartan.
Am going to do this post in pieces because my computer keeps messing up. bye for now.

Janet | Nov 2, 2007 4:04:47 PM | #

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I agree 100% on loving Paul Blackthorne - but have to break with you on the Dresden Files! It's awesome!! Have you seen how well it's doing on Hey!Nielsen?? Maybe you just need a refresher - Sci-Fi's showing repeats starting Nov. 9th, see if you change your mind. :)

Zarina | Nov 2, 2007 4:43:32 PM | #

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I haven't seen Big Shots but I am a fan of Paul Blackthorne. I just have to say that I think The Dresden Files Is a wonderful show.

Naomi | Nov 2, 2007 10:35:37 PM | #

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I agree with some of the comments above. I know the show is an ensemble but Michael Vartan has top billing and quite frankly I would like to see him in every scene. I love his interaction especially with Nia Long those two are making this show rock. I hope the ABC takes notice of this and comments made on most boards about these two.

robin | Nov 2, 2007 11:30:34 PM | #

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Robin, I agree with you. I am loving the James and Katie storyline and would really like to see more of them on screen.

Janet, I KNOW the show is supposed to be revolving around James - maybe the editors need to get that memo. The only reason I tuned into Big Shots was for Vartan and I'm not seeing nearly enough of him!

| Nov 3, 2007 4:45:10 AM | #

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While I agree with you that Paul is a wonderfully great actor, did you ever WATCH The Dresden Files? I ask because anyone who actually paid attention to the show could see it was a great show. Dresden Files was not cancelled because it was a bad show, it was cancelled because Sci-Fi channel has proven they wouldn't know good television if it bit them on the butt. That being said, more Paul on Big Shots!

almagirl66 | Nov 3, 2007 10:39:59 AM | #

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Robin and next poster - well said! If the next poster was SouthernGal, my sincerest apologies. When I looked back and saw that it was you on the first post about James' story being made more central, I was embarrassed because I know from other boards that you do know the scoop big time and it is most appreciated. I, too, tuned into the show only for Michael Vartan and know that ABC knows what a hot property they have in him so what the heck are they doing!
In regard to learning more about his marriage, I totally think there is a need for that and maybe some is planned. For example, I was very struck in the pilot that James sorta lied to Stacey about being upset, claiming everything was fine, and then went directly to his buddies to spill his guts about being fired. Seems there must have been more than a little missing in that relationship already!
Re Zack being put up to work for Duncan: I definitely think so - there was a brief phone conversation early on in which he speaks to person unknown ( I agree it's likely Terrence) that he's gotten in.
Re Titus: I too am pleasantly surprised how much I'm liking the character and the actor. Brody is really caring about his buddies and his wife - he whines but he's so thrilled when he pleases her. And Titus is a much better actor than I expected. I adored his "sympathy PMS" last week - what a riot! This has to be a first on TV or anywhere! This is the kind of humor and innovation the show should be doing in my opinion rather than the overdone triangle of Karl, his sweet wife, and his nutty ex-mistress. I think it sounds funnier than it really plays out.
I'm very happy with the turn Duncan's story has taken - I was not comfortable with him as such a narcissistic sleazeball. Loving the sensitive and caring feelings coming out - much more consistent with the tone of the show and I can now see why he's friends with the other three - couldn't see that before.
Fnally, thanks to Zap2it for this board. I get the daily emails and never saw the link before. Is it new or have I been missing it?

Janet | Nov 3, 2007 11:39:25 AM | #

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Janet, we're on the same page about Vartan. 8=)

From spoilers I've read, it sounds like Brody (Titus) will be getting his own storyline very soon. The spoilers sound pretty exciting. Brody is turning out to be a really interesting character.

SouthernGal | Nov 3, 2007 6:17:18 PM | #

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I must admit that I started watching Big Shots because of Paul Blackthorne. I loved The Dresden Files, and wanted to see more of him. I'd still like to see more of him...to be such a central part in the plot, his character gets pitifully little screen time.

On the other hand we have Brody who has little impact on the plot. It would be nice to see his story expanded. Karl's story line is comic relief...I find myself looking forward to his bits just to see what zany situation he'll end up in next. It was nice to see James get the better of that reporter girl. And I hope Duncan ends up with Lizbeth soon so we don't have to listen to him whine about it anymore. Sorry, but it's starting to wear on me.

Addled Alchemist | Nov 4, 2007 5:19:54 AM | #

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This is definately Desperate House Husbands - this show makes me laugh out loud.
What if Zack isn't really Duncan's son and it's all just a ploy to make Duncan look bad to Elizabeth in case she starts wavering. After all, essentially she's only been dating Terrence exclusively for about 2 weeks - far too early for an engagement. It'll be Callie and George all over again!
I am going to enjoy watching Cam vie for Duncan's attention with a male "sibling" though - she won't be able to be so snarky!
Those country clubs are very expensive so I wouldn't blame the boys for spending most of their time there if only to get their money's worth.
I do laugh at Karl's storyline, even though his storyline is totally predictable, all parties play it well. I can't wait to see his therapists face when she hears the latest; I wouldn't be surprised if she got a bestseller out of it.
Christopher Titus is fantastic - he holds that group together and he's great at his job too. I guess we're never going to see Janelle though she'll be like Maris, Niles' wife on Frasier.

Sirius | Nov 4, 2007 12:34:18 PM | #

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