A weekly feature in which we're trying to find the most compelling, best acted, written, directed and just generally great, memorable scenes that we've seen in past seven days on TV.
BROOKLYN NINE NINE, "The 9-8", February 9, 2016, Actors: Andy Samberg, Joe Lo Truglio and more, The Scene: The brawl between the 9-8 and the 9-9
Laura Markus: In an episode some people probably saw as a bit cliche, there's no denying the ending was completely unexpected, as least to the extent of which it happened. Jake found out his friend and former partner was dirty (which seems to be a theme of the week), and pure madness ensued. All the visitors from the 9-8 started an all-out brawl with our friends from the 9-9. Amy was fed up with her desk partner because he was scamming with the help of a dog. Rosa's partner was just flat out annoying. Terry's partner stole his keyboard, then his monitor. Hitchcock and Scully were so enraged by the long wait times for the microwave that they took it outside. Even Captain Holt was losing it because the Captain of the 9-8 just reeked of terrible. My jaw was on the ground for this entire sequence, and it was one of the best scenes in all of Season 3 so far. I can't say I'm sorry to see the 9-8 go elsewhere.
LIMITLESS, "Fundamentals of Naked Portraiture", February 9, 2016, Actors: Tom Degnan, Michael James Shaw, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, The Scene: Mike and Ike convince Naz that Spike is dirty
Laura Markus: No matter what they say, Mike and Ike can't deny that Brian is rubbing off on them. After basically stalking Spike, Ike believes that he's dirty, so the two of them investigated. But they needed to convince Naz of this. Mike tried his hand at puppetry, in what was supposed to echo Brian's clay effigies, but looked like something I made. Ike, on the other hand, seems to be a lot more well-rounded in the ways of art. He drew a sketch of Spike which looked really sweet. Mike even commenting on this by saying "That's beautiful", to which Ike responded, "Oh, thanks man! The shadows were a little tricky" which was probably my favourite exchange of the episode. By finally cutting to the chase, and reminding us of ADIC Johnson, they managed to figure out Spike was a mole for him, and Naz was on board and fired him. Much needed comic relief and very well written and acted all around.
SHADES OF BLUE, "Fall of Man", February 11, 2016, Actors: Ray Liotta and more, The Scene: The standoff on the roof
Laura Markus: Holy crap! This scene was so disturbing. After being duped by the criminal they were after, there's a struggle between him and Saperstein. Sap reaches out to Woz for "a little help" but Woz just stands there, staring blankly back at him. The criminal finally falls down and what was next was terrifying. It seemed like things would be fine, but Woz interrogates Sap and starts coming at him scarily. He thinks he finally found the mole, and pushes Sap over the ledge. When Harlee manages to reach the top, Woz makes up a story about how Sap shot the perp and they both fell over. Harlee doesn't really buy the story, but the two of them hug anyway. Woz's face in the closing shot of the episode will haunt me for a very long time. Excellent, chilling acting by Ray Liotta.
SUPERGIRL, "For the Girl Who Has Everything", February 8, 2016, Actors: Chyler Leigh, Melissa Benoist and more, The Scene: Alex pleads with Kara to remember her life on Earth
Justyna K: Alex being Supergirl's hero truly says it all. It was one of the show's most emotional hours, with Kara almost dying, only to lose her family and planet all over again, her friends doing their best to bring her home safely and Alex desperately trying to reach her little sister. And the scene that really stood out in the episode for me has to be Alex making Kara remember (and choose) her life on Earth. Chyler Leigh did such an incredible work in that moment, showing how powerful bond these two sisters share and how painful it would be for her character to lose Kara. Alex fought with all her strength, trying to get through Krypton's illusion and slowly breaking the spell keeping Kara in her sleep. With the mention of her friends, home, being Supergirl and her sister, Alex manages to save her family in the end. And it only proves how important this love between the two sisters is for the show. As the real heart of the story. Excellent work by both actors. And a special shout-out to the following scene, when Kara does eventually wake up. Alex almost breaking down, thinking she didn't save her and Kara's quiet but angry and heartbreaking reaction as she realizes she's back - wonderfully done. Kudos to the cast & crew!
Aimee Hicks: In a powerful and outstanding episode this scene stood out as Alex risked everything to try and save Kara. As she told James she did not want to come back if she couldn’t bring her sister with her and she meant it. She was being brutalized by the Kryptonian guards but not even they could deter her from fighting for her sister. She was begging for Kara to come back to them and trying her best to get through to Kara’s Black Mercy compromised mind. Alex’s plea was very true and heartfelt as she reminded Kara that life isn’t perfect but that at least she had people that truly loved her waiting for her. It the end it wasn’t the mention of Hank, James or Winn that brought her back and while the mention of Supergirl got through to her it was Alex’s final plea that she needed her sister that seemed to break the Black Mercy’s spell over her. This entire scene was a shining moment for Chyler who was given this emotionally raw scene and gave it her whole heart and soul which made it transcend the screen and brought the audience right into the middle of Alex’s fear over losing her sister. Melissa was equally brilliant as she managed to not respond to Chyler’s outstanding performance until the exact right moment and her posture changed and her eyes sparked back to life and the Kara we all know and love was back. The most poignant moment of this scene was the very end as Kara desperately tries to get to her sister and Alex fights to get her hand to Kara’s. Their outstretched hands almost touching frantically trying to reach each other was a breathtaking moment. This was one of, if not the best, scene of the entire series so far. Also picked by Jamie Coudeville
TEEN WOLF, "Lie Ability", February 9, 2016, Actors: Holland Roden, Dylan O'Brien and more, The Scene: Lydia almost dies
Justyna K: This was absolutely brilliant! Certainly one of the best hours of the show in years. In an episode like that, it's almost impossible to choose just one, most compelling, impressive and memorable scene. There were quite a few that I could mention in the article, like Parrish absorbing Lydia's deadly scream, Stiles finding Lydia seconds after she kills Valack, Lydia's mom showing up just in time to help the pack save her daughter, Scott, Stiles and Lydia in the car or at least a couple of others, yet in the end, the one scene that stood out for me the most in this stellar episode is the moment when Scott and Stiles bring Lydia to Deaton and together they manage to save her life. First of all, the actors did such a fantastic work in both the episode and this scene in particular. Holland Roden had a chance to really shine as Lydia struggled with her pain and the need to protect her friends from her scream. Seeing that brief moment when Lydia appears to be dead was truly heartbreaking, made even more tragic and powerful thanks to Dylan O'Brien and his emotional performance. So glad to see Lydia's okay and finally out of Eichen House, clearly there's a long way ahead of her before she can feel back like herself but for the time being, I'm just relieved to know she's with her family and friends and not dying anymore. Well done everyone. Such an intense scene with many of the little things making it work so well, like Stiles, despite knowing the effects of her scream, instinctively protecting Lydia from the glass, instead of keeping the safe distance. It just feels exactly like something he would have done. And since these two have become one of my favorite duos on the show over the years, it's great to see them together again, especially in the meaningful interactions like that one. Also brilliant, Lydia's mom getting to the clinic in the end, just being there for her daughter. Hopefully this means a new start for her character, so that knowing what's happening in Beacon Hills makes her support Lydia better in the future. Overall, I loved the episode, already re-watched it a couple of times and kudos to the entire cast & crew! Can't wait to see what's next.
THE 100, "Watch the Thrones", February 11, 2016, Actors: Eliza Taylor, Alycia Debnam-Carey, The Scenes: Lexa visits Clarke after her victory & Lexa kills Queen Naia
Aimee Hicks: This was one of the quieter moments of this action packed episode but I think it said a lot about where these two stand after their tumultuous first few days reunited. When it counted Clarke put aside all of her differences with Lexa and went running to support her during the fight. I think that meant more to Lexa than she cared to admit in that moment. As soon as things settled it was Clarke who she wanted to see. Alycia is brilliant in the way she portrays Lexa’s two sides. There is the tough Commander side that is tough but fair then there is the side of her that Clarke brings out that is softer in intensity and almost a bit like an anxious teenager with a crush and that’s how Lexa was in this scene. She wanted Clarke’s touch but she hesitated to accept Clarke’s offer to tend to her hand for fear of the emotions being that close would cause. She chose her people over Clarke once and I think that destroyed a small part of her soul to bring that kind of trauma to someone she obviously cares for a great deal. Eliza for her part has played Clarke as keeping this wall up around Lexa but after the commitment moment from last week I think Lexa has started to sneak her way back under Clarke’s tough armor. Eliza has done amazing showing the subtle softening of Clarke when she addresses Lexa now and while Clarke isn’t ready to fully open up to Lexa yet the tides have definitely changed. I don’t think Clarke will ever truly and completely forgive Lexa but she also can’t deny the powerful attraction they share. I think this is the first step towards the two of them trying to overcome Lexa’s betrayal and properly explore the feelings that exist between them. This scene also setup an interesting dilemma for Clarke because if she allows herself to be with Lexa and war between their people does erupt whom will Clarke side with? Will it be her turn to betray Lexa or will she stand with Lexa against a faction of her own people? By starting the healing process of this relationship this scene has setup some interesting story points that I can’t wait to watch unfold.
Jamie Coudeville: I don't think anyone was sad about this turn of events. While I did expect her to last a few more episodes, I actually cheered when Lexa threw that spear. The fight itself was also pretty spectacular. I always love a good fight scene.
THE FLASH, "Welcome to Earth-2", February 9, 2016, Actor: Grant Gustin, The Scene: Barry calls his mom
Justyna K: When it comes to these real, emotional, often family-related moments, you can always count on Grant Gustin to steal the show and break the viewers hearts with his performance. There were many surprises, good and bad ones, that Barry had to face on the Earth-2, yet nothing hit him as much as the short call with his mom, still alive and well in this parallel world. The last time Barry has seen his mother was when she died in his arms as he realized he can't save her and now... It feels like she's both closer and further away from him than ever before. It means everything, it brings him comfort to know that somewhere out there, in a different place, stranger circumstances and time, she's alive and okay. Such a short, yet so poignant scene. With so many other memorable moments and characters in this brilliant hour, it still remains the most powerful one for me. Kudos! With all the things happening at the end, especially with Barry trapped in Zoom's lair, I already can't wait to see the next episode.
THE SHANNARA CHRONICLES, "Breakline", February 9, 2016, Actors: Poppy Drayton, Ivana Baquero, The Scene: Eretria tends to Amberle’s arm and they bond
Aimee Hicks: Eretria and Amberle have been on an interesting journey this season. They went from enemies to reluctant allies to friends. Eretria tries to keep up this tough girl façade but once Amberle put aside her earlier issues with the Rover she was finally able to see through Eretria’s tough girl act and I think she saw a person she could actually like. In reality they aren’t all that different and it took them stuck in this situation together to realize that. Last week Eretria hit on Amberle and this week we met Eretria’s ex-girlfriend so I wouldn’t be surprised if some of Eretria’s continued attitude with Amberle is to mask some growing feelings for the princess. This is quite an interesting love triangle and I think Eretria is actually more into Amberle than Wil so while I know how this ends in the books I am quite curious to see if the series deviates from that outcome. This particular scene setup the rest of the episode perfectly because from this point on the two of them were working in perfect harmony and repeatedly saved one another. When they were finally caught Eretria made a very conscious effort to keep herself between Amberle and danger essentially using her own body as a human shield. The Rover girl we met in the first episode would have gladly thrown Amberle into that arrow and taken off but instead she stood firm by her friend and it was for reasons beyond financial gain. Then when Eretria was shot by the arrow at the end of the episode it was Amberle, not Wil, who cried out for Eretria and wanted to immediately go back for her showing that Eretria has finally earned herself a place as Amberle’s friend. Many incidents throughout the episode built up to this moment but it was this scene in particular where Eretria and Amberle both finally opened up to each other and found common ground that setup the change in their dynamic. They have a lot more in common than Wil or this quest and they needed to see and accept that to be the best they can be in the coming trials. No matter where this love triangle settles I believe these two can now be called friends and the show is better for it. Ivana and Poppy have a great ease together and I hope this change between their characters will allow them to work together more so this friendship can further develop.
THE X-FILES, "Home Again", February 8, 2016, Actors: Gillian Anderson and more, The Scene: Scully tackles the suspect
Laura M: It's hard to chose just one scene because this episode was plagued with beautiful shots and moments between Mulder and Scully. Not really seeing the point in having them 'stranged' if they're gonna act like this. But the scene when Scully tackles the suspect, channeling her anger and pain in one swift motion, was a reminder of how strong Scully is. Even if she doesn't reach the pedals.
Laura Markus: In an episode some people probably saw as a bit cliche, there's no denying the ending was completely unexpected, as least to the extent of which it happened. Jake found out his friend and former partner was dirty (which seems to be a theme of the week), and pure madness ensued. All the visitors from the 9-8 started an all-out brawl with our friends from the 9-9. Amy was fed up with her desk partner because he was scamming with the help of a dog. Rosa's partner was just flat out annoying. Terry's partner stole his keyboard, then his monitor. Hitchcock and Scully were so enraged by the long wait times for the microwave that they took it outside. Even Captain Holt was losing it because the Captain of the 9-8 just reeked of terrible. My jaw was on the ground for this entire sequence, and it was one of the best scenes in all of Season 3 so far. I can't say I'm sorry to see the 9-8 go elsewhere.
Laura Markus: No matter what they say, Mike and Ike can't deny that Brian is rubbing off on them. After basically stalking Spike, Ike believes that he's dirty, so the two of them investigated. But they needed to convince Naz of this. Mike tried his hand at puppetry, in what was supposed to echo Brian's clay effigies, but looked like something I made. Ike, on the other hand, seems to be a lot more well-rounded in the ways of art. He drew a sketch of Spike which looked really sweet. Mike even commenting on this by saying "That's beautiful", to which Ike responded, "Oh, thanks man! The shadows were a little tricky" which was probably my favourite exchange of the episode. By finally cutting to the chase, and reminding us of ADIC Johnson, they managed to figure out Spike was a mole for him, and Naz was on board and fired him. Much needed comic relief and very well written and acted all around.
Laura Markus: Holy crap! This scene was so disturbing. After being duped by the criminal they were after, there's a struggle between him and Saperstein. Sap reaches out to Woz for "a little help" but Woz just stands there, staring blankly back at him. The criminal finally falls down and what was next was terrifying. It seemed like things would be fine, but Woz interrogates Sap and starts coming at him scarily. He thinks he finally found the mole, and pushes Sap over the ledge. When Harlee manages to reach the top, Woz makes up a story about how Sap shot the perp and they both fell over. Harlee doesn't really buy the story, but the two of them hug anyway. Woz's face in the closing shot of the episode will haunt me for a very long time. Excellent, chilling acting by Ray Liotta.
Justyna K: Alex being Supergirl's hero truly says it all. It was one of the show's most emotional hours, with Kara almost dying, only to lose her family and planet all over again, her friends doing their best to bring her home safely and Alex desperately trying to reach her little sister. And the scene that really stood out in the episode for me has to be Alex making Kara remember (and choose) her life on Earth. Chyler Leigh did such an incredible work in that moment, showing how powerful bond these two sisters share and how painful it would be for her character to lose Kara. Alex fought with all her strength, trying to get through Krypton's illusion and slowly breaking the spell keeping Kara in her sleep. With the mention of her friends, home, being Supergirl and her sister, Alex manages to save her family in the end. And it only proves how important this love between the two sisters is for the show. As the real heart of the story. Excellent work by both actors. And a special shout-out to the following scene, when Kara does eventually wake up. Alex almost breaking down, thinking she didn't save her and Kara's quiet but angry and heartbreaking reaction as she realizes she's back - wonderfully done. Kudos to the cast & crew!
Aimee Hicks: In a powerful and outstanding episode this scene stood out as Alex risked everything to try and save Kara. As she told James she did not want to come back if she couldn’t bring her sister with her and she meant it. She was being brutalized by the Kryptonian guards but not even they could deter her from fighting for her sister. She was begging for Kara to come back to them and trying her best to get through to Kara’s Black Mercy compromised mind. Alex’s plea was very true and heartfelt as she reminded Kara that life isn’t perfect but that at least she had people that truly loved her waiting for her. It the end it wasn’t the mention of Hank, James or Winn that brought her back and while the mention of Supergirl got through to her it was Alex’s final plea that she needed her sister that seemed to break the Black Mercy’s spell over her. This entire scene was a shining moment for Chyler who was given this emotionally raw scene and gave it her whole heart and soul which made it transcend the screen and brought the audience right into the middle of Alex’s fear over losing her sister. Melissa was equally brilliant as she managed to not respond to Chyler’s outstanding performance until the exact right moment and her posture changed and her eyes sparked back to life and the Kara we all know and love was back. The most poignant moment of this scene was the very end as Kara desperately tries to get to her sister and Alex fights to get her hand to Kara’s. Their outstretched hands almost touching frantically trying to reach each other was a breathtaking moment. This was one of, if not the best, scene of the entire series so far. Also picked by Jamie Coudeville
Justyna K: This was absolutely brilliant! Certainly one of the best hours of the show in years. In an episode like that, it's almost impossible to choose just one, most compelling, impressive and memorable scene. There were quite a few that I could mention in the article, like Parrish absorbing Lydia's deadly scream, Stiles finding Lydia seconds after she kills Valack, Lydia's mom showing up just in time to help the pack save her daughter, Scott, Stiles and Lydia in the car or at least a couple of others, yet in the end, the one scene that stood out for me the most in this stellar episode is the moment when Scott and Stiles bring Lydia to Deaton and together they manage to save her life. First of all, the actors did such a fantastic work in both the episode and this scene in particular. Holland Roden had a chance to really shine as Lydia struggled with her pain and the need to protect her friends from her scream. Seeing that brief moment when Lydia appears to be dead was truly heartbreaking, made even more tragic and powerful thanks to Dylan O'Brien and his emotional performance. So glad to see Lydia's okay and finally out of Eichen House, clearly there's a long way ahead of her before she can feel back like herself but for the time being, I'm just relieved to know she's with her family and friends and not dying anymore. Well done everyone. Such an intense scene with many of the little things making it work so well, like Stiles, despite knowing the effects of her scream, instinctively protecting Lydia from the glass, instead of keeping the safe distance. It just feels exactly like something he would have done. And since these two have become one of my favorite duos on the show over the years, it's great to see them together again, especially in the meaningful interactions like that one. Also brilliant, Lydia's mom getting to the clinic in the end, just being there for her daughter. Hopefully this means a new start for her character, so that knowing what's happening in Beacon Hills makes her support Lydia better in the future. Overall, I loved the episode, already re-watched it a couple of times and kudos to the entire cast & crew! Can't wait to see what's next.
Aimee Hicks: This was one of the quieter moments of this action packed episode but I think it said a lot about where these two stand after their tumultuous first few days reunited. When it counted Clarke put aside all of her differences with Lexa and went running to support her during the fight. I think that meant more to Lexa than she cared to admit in that moment. As soon as things settled it was Clarke who she wanted to see. Alycia is brilliant in the way she portrays Lexa’s two sides. There is the tough Commander side that is tough but fair then there is the side of her that Clarke brings out that is softer in intensity and almost a bit like an anxious teenager with a crush and that’s how Lexa was in this scene. She wanted Clarke’s touch but she hesitated to accept Clarke’s offer to tend to her hand for fear of the emotions being that close would cause. She chose her people over Clarke once and I think that destroyed a small part of her soul to bring that kind of trauma to someone she obviously cares for a great deal. Eliza for her part has played Clarke as keeping this wall up around Lexa but after the commitment moment from last week I think Lexa has started to sneak her way back under Clarke’s tough armor. Eliza has done amazing showing the subtle softening of Clarke when she addresses Lexa now and while Clarke isn’t ready to fully open up to Lexa yet the tides have definitely changed. I don’t think Clarke will ever truly and completely forgive Lexa but she also can’t deny the powerful attraction they share. I think this is the first step towards the two of them trying to overcome Lexa’s betrayal and properly explore the feelings that exist between them. This scene also setup an interesting dilemma for Clarke because if she allows herself to be with Lexa and war between their people does erupt whom will Clarke side with? Will it be her turn to betray Lexa or will she stand with Lexa against a faction of her own people? By starting the healing process of this relationship this scene has setup some interesting story points that I can’t wait to watch unfold.
Jamie Coudeville: I don't think anyone was sad about this turn of events. While I did expect her to last a few more episodes, I actually cheered when Lexa threw that spear. The fight itself was also pretty spectacular. I always love a good fight scene.
Justyna K: When it comes to these real, emotional, often family-related moments, you can always count on Grant Gustin to steal the show and break the viewers hearts with his performance. There were many surprises, good and bad ones, that Barry had to face on the Earth-2, yet nothing hit him as much as the short call with his mom, still alive and well in this parallel world. The last time Barry has seen his mother was when she died in his arms as he realized he can't save her and now... It feels like she's both closer and further away from him than ever before. It means everything, it brings him comfort to know that somewhere out there, in a different place, stranger circumstances and time, she's alive and okay. Such a short, yet so poignant scene. With so many other memorable moments and characters in this brilliant hour, it still remains the most powerful one for me. Kudos! With all the things happening at the end, especially with Barry trapped in Zoom's lair, I already can't wait to see the next episode.
Aimee Hicks: Eretria and Amberle have been on an interesting journey this season. They went from enemies to reluctant allies to friends. Eretria tries to keep up this tough girl façade but once Amberle put aside her earlier issues with the Rover she was finally able to see through Eretria’s tough girl act and I think she saw a person she could actually like. In reality they aren’t all that different and it took them stuck in this situation together to realize that. Last week Eretria hit on Amberle and this week we met Eretria’s ex-girlfriend so I wouldn’t be surprised if some of Eretria’s continued attitude with Amberle is to mask some growing feelings for the princess. This is quite an interesting love triangle and I think Eretria is actually more into Amberle than Wil so while I know how this ends in the books I am quite curious to see if the series deviates from that outcome. This particular scene setup the rest of the episode perfectly because from this point on the two of them were working in perfect harmony and repeatedly saved one another. When they were finally caught Eretria made a very conscious effort to keep herself between Amberle and danger essentially using her own body as a human shield. The Rover girl we met in the first episode would have gladly thrown Amberle into that arrow and taken off but instead she stood firm by her friend and it was for reasons beyond financial gain. Then when Eretria was shot by the arrow at the end of the episode it was Amberle, not Wil, who cried out for Eretria and wanted to immediately go back for her showing that Eretria has finally earned herself a place as Amberle’s friend. Many incidents throughout the episode built up to this moment but it was this scene in particular where Eretria and Amberle both finally opened up to each other and found common ground that setup the change in their dynamic. They have a lot more in common than Wil or this quest and they needed to see and accept that to be the best they can be in the coming trials. No matter where this love triangle settles I believe these two can now be called friends and the show is better for it. Ivana and Poppy have a great ease together and I hope this change between their characters will allow them to work together more so this friendship can further develop.
Laura M: It's hard to chose just one scene because this episode was plagued with beautiful shots and moments between Mulder and Scully. Not really seeing the point in having them 'stranged' if they're gonna act like this. But the scene when Scully tackles the suspect, channeling her anger and pain in one swift motion, was a reminder of how strong Scully is. Even if she doesn't reach the pedals.
