TV Review: Human Target - "Ilsa Pucci"

Human Target is back for its second season, and fans could not be more excited. Not only did the show get moved out of its problematic time slot on Friday nights, the Scheduling Gods had enough common sense to stick it back where it was last time, Wednesday nights. Considering Friday is already packed with CW offerings of Smallville and Supernatural, the move is a wise decision. Especially when one considers the former show is in the midst of a series finale. Just one niggle - shouldn't Human Target be more of a nine pm deal? The action is intense enough to hold on, and the grittiness is not for the weak of stomach. Put The Good Guys in at 8pm, and it works well.

For those new to the HT premise, Christopher Chance (Mark Valley) is a private bodyguard whose clients are at risk of losing their lives. Although his background has dark and murky undertones, the skills he has gained over time are perfect for the job. Winston (Chi McBride) manages the company, interviewing those who seek the firm's help and settling payment. As a former cop, the cool logic helps. Guerrero (Jackie Earle Haley), on the other hand, is the guy who knows just about everything about anybody.

Obviously, these three are in a dangerous profession. When last we left them, Winston got kidnapped by a man looking for a ledger ("Christopher Chance"). Casting Timothy Omundson of Psych renown for a guest star appearance is pure genius. Omundson has the gravitas to pull things off without looking like a villain caricature, and bringing him back for a repeat performance is viewing delight. Tahmoh Penikett is no stranger to FOX viewers, as Dollhouse fans will crow. Penikett interacts well on screen, so his return is a welcome one.

By the opening credits, viewers know exactly what Winston's fate is. This is hardly surprising with three cast members on the original docket. However, a new case brings Indira Varma on board as the client whose husband's wealth puts her into the line of fire. Varma comes off as the quintessential Brit who knows exactly what she wants. She is also one of two women who are now series regulars. Janet Montgomery plays Ames, a young thief. More about these two new characters is coming as the series unfolds.

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Article Author: NancyGail

NancyGail writes from her home in Georgia.

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  • 1 - Seraphin

    Nov 24, 2010 at 4:17 pm

    I don't think Chris Chance is unsure about the detonator...
    He knew exactly what he was doing but sayin that he doesn't make Winston close his eyes long enough for Chance to leave the building whitout a painful goodbye.
    At least it's how I understand that scene
    Nice Review and sorry for the mistakes (I'm French)

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