Grant Brünner: Bassguy

This post spoils important plot points for Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles. Unless you have seen episode two of season two, please do not read this post.

Off the bat, I began to squirm. As soon as the cancer quote was mentioned in the recap, I knew I would be in for an hour of uncomfortable shifting in my seat. Sarah is exposed to radioactive material not once, but twice in the same episode. While it bothers me that the writers put us through all of that, the way they wrapped it up impressed the hell out of me. They went for some cheap thrills, but they didn’t cop out by setting up the dominos for Sarah’s cancer. I love an element of mystery, so leaving the threat of cancer as an unknown variable is a good move in my eyes.

The introduction of Riley hit a little close to home. I anticipated a negative reaction towards the character, but I ended up charmed by John’s interaction with her. The fact that John didn’t fall ass over tea kettle for this girl right out of the gate gives me faith that this arc will be handled very well. I’m convinced that this isn’t a “John falls madly in love” story. Her introduction is much more of a “Friend of his own” type of deal. I’m buying what they’re selling with the character of Riley.

I hate Dixon’s wife. I hated her last season, and I hate her even more this season. All we have seen her do insofar is bitch at Charley, distrust Charley, and slap Charley in the face. Guys, we like Charley. He is a good guy. I feel bad that he is married to such a harpy. I’m not sure how we’ll be suddenly forced to care about her in the next episode, but I have a feeling it will end badly for Dixon — that poor sap.

This episode brought some very nice moments to the table. We got to see Sarah actually frightened for her own safety. We get to see John enjoy himself for once. Most importantly, we got some hilarious pool-themed dick jokes. Automatic for the People was a well executed installment of the series.