Veronica Mars Back to Blog
Every Wednesday night, I eagerly tune in to watch the exploits of teen PI Veronica Mars on UPN. Now, I’m not a teen (yeah–won’t be seeing those days again!), so why do I watch a show about high schoolers?
Simple: The characters are absolutely amazing. The plot twists often leave me suprised (this is a big feat for me–heck, it’s gotten to where I can predict the endings of shows like CSI, Law and Order, and Medium within the first five minutes of the show). But don’t get me wrong–I love all those shows I just mentioned, but, even more than I love them, I love surprises.
And I get my surprises with Veronica Mars. Apparently, I’m not the only one drawn to watch the blond’s exploits. Recently, in teasers for the show, a nice voice-over said something along the lines of : Stephen King can’t take his eyes off her. Ohhhh…I’m in company with Stephen King…how utterly fabulous.
But…back to why I like the show:
First, let me start with the characters. There aren’t any one dimensional characters on this show. Everyone has extraordinary depth–let me give you an example: The first time I saw the sheriff’s character, I thought he was pure evil–obviously a guy on the take who didn’t care about the citizens of his town. He was good-looking, self-involved, and had a wickedly nasty personality. I liked him, of course, but then…he evolved (as generally happens to all the folks on the show). I soon discovered the sheriff had a troubled past, and I learned that sometimes, he actually does try to do the right thing. Sure, the guy’s still crooked, but he’s crooked, wounded, sarcastic…and just plain fun now.
And as for the leading character…Veronica might just be 18, but she has all the attributes of a powerful heroine. She’s smart, spunky, and can deliver one-liners that would make comedians envious. She has knows how to take care of herself–Veronica doesn’t need anyone to rescue her–the chick carries a tazer!
In addition to the characters, I love the show because of the amazing plots. No, there’s no petty teen drama. Murders occur. Buses are sabotaged, babies are kidnapped, and, sometimes, Veronica gets locked in freezers…But no matter what happens, the show is geared to generate maximum suspense. Each week, the show ends in such a manner that I’m left desperate to know what will happen next time. Can you say awesome ending hook?
So that’s why I like Veronica Mars. The show’s a perfect recipe for a book–strong characters, great hooks, tension-generating plots.
If you haven’t checked this show out, I would highly recommend it (um…in case you didn’t get that from my gushing post!).
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Yes! I must say when I started watching this show it was only because I thought it’d be so bad, that I’d have fun laughing. However, by the time the first episode was over I had to know what happened to Lilly. And episode by episode I found myself more in love with the characters. Its been a great ride so far.
And I think the writers aren’t done with the Lilly story yet…
The first time I saw the sheriff’s character, I thought he was pure evil–obviously a guy on the take who didn’t care about the citizens of his town. He was good-looking, self-involved, and had a wickedly nasty personality. I liked him, of course, but then…he evolved (as generally happens to all the folks on the show). I soon discovered the sheriff had a troubled past, and I learned that sometimes, he actually does try to do the right thing. Sure, the guy’s still crooked, but he’s crooked, wounded, sarcastic…and just plain fun now.
As a big Michael Muhney supporter and Sheriff Lamb fan, I am thrilled that Lamb is getting more screentime and is developing into a character with an intriguing backstory that could potentially figure prominently into future storylines. I certainly hope the writers continue to use him wisely and take the opportunity to explore his snarky, wounded, and evil sides in upcoming episodes/seasons.
You should also know that there are likely some very happy Lamb fans at http://community.livejournal.com/rack_of_lamb/ at reading your positive comments on both Lamb and Veronica Mars.
Laura
Hi, Laura!
Thanks for the link–I will definitely check it out. And, like you, I really hope the writers will utilize him more–when you have a character who is that good, it just makes sense to give him more scenes!
I agree, Cynthia!
And if you do check out the community, note that Michael occasionally posts as “thewizrd.” He is a great, sweet guy who is fantastic to his fans. 😉
Laura
Interestingly enough, Veronica Mars was supposed to be a book. So maybe that’s why it feels like a great mystery novel. 🙂
Hey! I love your blog about VM. So great to hear from another fan – especially when that fan is an accomplished writer.
I love your comments about Veronica and Lamb; however, I’d be curious to hear your feelings about the character of Logan. Honestly, he is my favorite above all. As ethically challenged as he chooses to be, he still shows heart to those he truly cares about. And, his delivery of those zany one-liners is so appealing it’s sometimes seductive.
I also really live this show. The depth of the caracters, the plot twists, it’s just all so amazing! I can’t wait for the final episodes!
I also wanted to let you know that Veronica Mars is moving to Tuesdays from April 11th.
I am glad to know there are so many other Veronica fans out there! 🙂
Natalie–I had no idea Veronica Mars was supposed to be a book–very interesting. But, you’re right…it definitely shows like a great mystery. And in terms of mystery…I know that Veronica Mars has been compared to a modern day Nancy Drew, but, well, I think she is SO much better…if they were on a case competition, Veronica would leave old Nancy in the dust.
Sherry–Logan is actually my favorite character on the show! (Please, don’t get angry Sheriff fans!) There are so many layers to him–half the time I find myself angry with him because he’s doing wild stuff like hosting bum fights, but, then, I learn about his family troubles (his abusive dad) or I see how much he cares for Veronica, and I just…well, love him!
I think the current plot twist that involves Logan is absolutely brillant. I can’t wait to see how the murder case against him is resolved.
And, Sherry–thanks for the super kind comment!
Anonymous–Thanks for the heads-up regarding the schedule change. I’ll have to make certain my Tuesday nights are free!
Cynthia, apart from being one of the actors in VERONICA MARS, I too, am a big fan of the writing. The show is extremely well-written and intoxicating, to say the very least. Nice of you to mention the character I play, thank you. Sheriff Lamb is quite a fun read and I try to breathe life into him in a way where he has a certain humanity to him, despite his many faults. I have to give fans credit, as they were the ones to lead me to your site. I’m glad I clicked on the link, it was a pleasure reading what you’ve written. Get ready for a wild ride to the finale, we are currently filming the final two episodes of the season. For anyone with heart problems, do not watch the remainder of the season, you will only find that your blood pressure might rise to dangerous levels and you could put yourself in peril. I’m actually serious.
take care Cynthia,
Michael Muhney
Wow–Michael, thank you so much for visiting my blog! And thank you for doing such a wonderful job portraying the sometimes morally-challenged, but always enthralling Sheriff. It takes a very talented actor to bring a character to life the way you have done.
And I’ll definitely be staying tuned to see what happens as the season nears its finale…
Hi Cynthia-
Sorry to bother you again, but I have been invited to a VM Online Press Conference with Rob Thomas and Jason Dohring. It is being held tomorrow evening (Tuesday, March 28) to give VM bloggers a chance to interact first-hand with the producers and talent on the show, as well as to continue to raise awareness for the series in the online fandom. Anyhow, as a writer and a fan of the show (in particular Jason Dohring’s Logan), I was wondering if you had any burning or interesting questions you would like asked of either Rob or Jason. I am wracking my brain for intelligent questions to throw out to them. I suspect I will only be allowed one question. So, if you have any input or suggestions (and have the time or inclination), please email me at beutherlm@hotmail.com. I’m soliciting questions from my journal as well and it’s all appreciated!
Laura
P.S. I see that Michael Muhney commented to you. That’s not surprising. Hee!
Cynthia, I’m a VM’s fan too. One of the smartest shows on TV right now. The plot twists are amazing, and I love the way Veronica’s father treats her like the teen she is, yet respects her abilities. I’m looking forward to the final episodes of the season too. The bad part is then we’ll have to wait until fall for new episodes.
Oh, Edie…please don’t remind me of the summer drought! Although…ahem…without my shows I always seem to produce so many more manuscript pages. Wild, huh?
I like to watch Veronica Mars episodes as well Lost. I found your blog on google and read a few of your other posts. I just added you to my Google News Reader. Keep up the good work. Look forward to reading more from you in the future.