Reports of the mass elimination of abilities among those with special powers rocked the Heroes world today. It appears that the eclipse has somehow blocked the use of all powers! It is uncertain at this time if the abilities will be restored when the eclipse is complete. Stay tuned for additional information.
We now return you to your regularly scheduled broadcast.
Synopsis:
Arthur Petrelli, in a white-eyed induced trance, sketches the future and his is not at all happy. (And we know what happens when Arthur is pissed.)
Sylar and Elle practice the art of electrocution from a distance when Arthur shows up and asks Sylar to find Claire and bring her back to him. Elle decides to partner up with Sylar and together they head off to find Claire.
Angela tells Claire that she believes she is the catalyst and that she must be hidden and safeguarded for her own protection. She also tells her that Nathan has gone off to find the Haitian and Matt to find Hiro. It appears she is amassing the Heroes together for a reason.
At Primatech Nathan decides to head to Haiti and Peter convinces him to take him along. In a flash Nathan and Peter disappear with a contrail.
In the meantime, Mohinder dissects his failed experiment and finds that he is quickly turning into… something else (spiderman, lizardman, mothman? We’re not quite sure.) Arthur shows him the sketches he’s made and tells him the “everthing is going to change today!”
At the Suresh apartment in Brooklyn, New York Matt and Daphne discuss what to do next. Daphne is afraid of Arthur and believes that he will take her powers if she does not do what he says. Daphne calls herself “a betrayer” but Matt tells her that he trusts her. Matt wants Daphne’s help finding Hiro when he and Ando conveniently show up at the apartment. Matt is told that Hiro has lost his memory and Daphne declares… “we’re all going to die!”
Noah Bennet brings Claire to Steven Canfield’s house (where he unleashed a black hole). He tells Claire that it is a safehouse and that he wants to keep her safe.
Back in Brooklyn Matt cannot read Hiro’s thoughts because he is thinking in Japaneses and Matt does not understand him. Daphne tells him that they’ve lost their “re-set button” and leaves in a flash because she feels that Matt doesn’t trust her.
Sylar and Elle arrive at the Hotspur Car Rental Agency. Elle tells the ‘rental car guy’ that Sylar is a serial killer and that he has kidnapped Elle. When Sylar asks why Elle tells him that he is chained by his father and that they should be allowed to do and take anything they want. The rental car guy shows up brandishing a shotgun and Sylar gets smacked with the butt of the gun. During the dialogue the rental guy thinks he can become a hero if he captures Sylar. Sylar’s response? “I hat heroes!”
Mohinder studies the total solar eclipse and finds that he is changing into… something else and he can’t control it. He is leaking goo from his hands.
Noah teaches Claire self defense with a board from the broken floor at Steven Canfield’s place. When Claire asks if he’s trying to teach her Tai Kwon Do he says, “No, baseball!”
Tracy calls Arthur to report and tells him that Nathan went to get the Haitian. Arthur tells her that it was a smart move on Nathan’s part and then he orders her to go to Paris Island. When she questions him about the Marine training facility at Paris Island he responds, “Every war needs an army!” Angela hears part of their conversation and in a forshadow Tracy clichés, “No rest for the wicked!”
Matt tells Hiro and Ando that they must go to Lawrence, Kansas to find Daphne and Hiro teleports them to Kansas. As they head to Daphne’s house the eclipse begins.
In a montage we see the following: - Arthur throws the sketches off his desk. - Mohinder cocoons himself against the wall of the lab. - Angela reminisces over a family photograph. - Nathan and Peter are falling from the sky. - Sylar and Ells steal a car from the rental agency. - Clair practices “baseball.” - Close-up of the sketch of a bleeding Claire in Noah’s arms.
Mohinder extricates himself from the cocoon and finds that he has changed back to his old self. The lesions, sticky goo and sores have all disappeared.
Nathan and Peter get lost in the jungle of Haiti and find messenger/prayer dolls.
Back in Lawrence, Kansas Matt meets Daphne’s dad but he won’t let Matt in to talk to Daphne. Matt tries his mind trick on him but it does not work. Daphne tells her dad that she wanted to come home because “it’s happening again!”
Nathan and Peter are still lost in the jungle and are fighting. Nathan yells at Peter and tells him that all he’s ever done is save his life. Peter calls his brother a puppet. While they fight the Haitian appears and cautions them to be quite.
Claire is still breaking boards and tells her dad that she is mad at him for always leaving. Elle appears at the front door and tries to use her electrical power on Claire but her powers fail her. Sylar tries to use his ability on Noah but he too cannot force his powers to work. A fight ensues and Noah cracks Sylar’s arm (it sounded like he broke it). Elle grabs the gun and shoots Claire who does not heal. Noah leaves carrying Claire out of the house.
Noah brings Claire home and tells Sandra that they cannot call 911 or they’ll report it to the police. He tells her that they will take care of her themselves.
Hiro, Matt and Ando cannot use their powers and Hiro tells Matt he must save Daphne with a Hero’s Quest (sans powers). Throwing ears of corn at Matt Hiro tells Matt he’ll continue throwing corn until he can stop him.
When Matt leaves to see Daphne Hiro and Ando go off on a task of their own. They’ve reached the end of the comic book and they must find the next issue.
Mohinder is in complete remission of his changing symptoms and he decides to go and find Maya. But before he can leave Arthur and Flint confront him and tell him that he needs to get people their abilities back.
Hiro and Ando find Sam’s Comics in Lawrence.
Nathan, Peter and the Haitian are moving through the jungle. The Haitian tells them that he must find his brother who is an evil man and his power is that his skin is impenetrable. He also tells them that he must stop him again. Peter wants to help but before they can decide what to do the jungle erupts in gunfire. They run but Nathan is captured. When he tells who he is the Haitian’s brother tells him that his father warned him that he’d come!
Back at the Bennett house Claire seems to be healing (like normal people do) and Noah intends to leave. Sandra tells him that he can’t go because Claire needs him but he tells her that he has unfinished business to attend to.
Daphne’s dad leaves and Matt comes back. He tells Daphne that he loves her and she tells him to come in. He does and finds that Daphne has not only lost her ability but has lost motor function also. She is in leg braces and using crutches.
Sandra finds Claire bleeding out and calls and ambulance.
Elle fixes Sylar’s separated shoulder and they are both panicked by the loss of their abilities. Sylar tells her that the loss of power is a relief and that the hunger is gone. Elle and Sylar kiss and the camera pulls back to reveal… Sylar’s face in the sights of a sniper rifle aimed by Noah Bennett!
To be continued…
The Alternative Takes Note:
Arthur Petrrili’s Sketches: 1. Noah holding a bleeding, seemingly dead, Claire. 2. The Eclipse 3. Matt, Hiro and Ando at Daphne’s house in Lawrence, Kansas. 4. Sylar kissing Elle 5. Peter and Nathan falling out of the sky. 6. Mohinder dead (or just cocooned?)
People who have painted the future (so far): 1. Isaac Mendez (the first and original) 2. Peter Petrelli (temporarily) 3. Unturu (the African tribesman) 4. Arthur Petrelli (also, Hiro and Matt have both gone eye-white in visions but did not paint or sketch.)
The Haitians: (Dichotomies of power) - The Haitian can cancel all abilities just by being present. - His brother, Baron Samdi (sp), has the ability to withstand anything penetrating his skin.
New Ability: The Haitians brother has the ability to withstand bullets, knives or fire from penetrating his skin and is impervious to their effects.
Level 5 detainees: There are still a number of Villains detained at level five: 1. The Puppeteer 2. Danny Pine (the metal-handed guy)
Sam’s Comics: 1. Sam’s Comics in Tokyo (Hiro and Ando visited there last week) 2. Sam’s Comics in Lawrence, Kansas (Hiro and Ando again visit in search of the new issue of 9th Wonders). Incidentally, both Seth Green and Brecken Meyers are employees at the Sam’s in Kansas! Are they the wise men of which Hiro speaks? Cool!
Hiro’s places where wise men gather: 1. Greek Oracle at Delphi 2. The Library at Alexandria 3. The Hall of Justice 4. Sam’s Comics
9th Wonders comic: The new issue had an advertisement for a Tit-Tat Kandy Bar on the back page.
The Eclipse is back…. (And very much at the forefront of the story)
Three minute re-cap: - Arthur has “mind-washed” Hiro who believes that he is once again ten years old. - Arthur tells Sylar that his “hunger is not about killing but about power” (I begin to see exactly which son is the favorite – Gabriel Petrelli is leading this week…) - Elle has been captured by Arthur who leaves Sylar alone with her. Elle, in anger at her father’s death, turns Sylar into a piece of “Burnt Toast” (Pun intended!) - Knox and Flint attempt to kidnap Claire but she swan-dives out the window into the alley below. A familiar alley, BTW, as this is the place we see: a) Usutu’s painting of the world cracking w/ symbol embedded, and b) where Future Claire shoots Peter. - Arthur reveals to Mohinder that there is a part of the formula missing and tells him that the “catalyst” it is not a something but a “someone”. - Deep fried Sylar heals himself after Elle’s electric onslaught. - Matt and Daphne are on a mission to find Angela Petrelli and find her lost in Arthur’s imposed mind-prison. Daphne reports it to Arthur. - Peter tells Claire that in the future she becomes a killer and that she shoots him in the alley they’ve just vacated escaping from Flint and Knox. Hmmm… Future Claire shoots Peter and Future Peter shoots Nathan… you’ve got to wonder when Future Nathan gets his chance! - Hiro begins to re-visit his powers and, as a typical ten year old, commits a number of pranks at the bowling alley. (Ketchup on a chair, salt lid removed, bowling balls moved and spit-balls redirected.)What fun! Yatta… and Waffles too! - Matt delves into the fragmented world of Angela’s head. - Elle continues to pummel Sylar with bolts of blue-hot electricity. After one huge discharge, in which Sylar again heals himself, she asks him to kill her. - Nathan and Tracy go to Pinehurst to find Papa Petrelli. Arthur tells Nathan that his role was never explained and that the assassination attempt, Linderman, and his Senate seat are all part of a bigger plan. Nathan tells his dad that his plan destroys everything and Arthur tells him that with the formula they can save the world. - Sylar looks like he’s going to buzz-cut Elle but instead frees her from her chains. They begin to bond and in a moment of pure empathy Sylar forgives Elle and her powers are mysteriously transferred to him. Sylar begins to understand that he no longer needs to “free a brain” to gain an ability. - Knox and Flint attempt to kidnap Claire again but Peter (without using any powers except thought, for a change) outwits the captors. - In a poignant moment Sylar tells Elle “we are all at war with ourselves” and she begins to teach him how to use the power of Tesla! - Hiro begins to re-learn his power and transports himself and Ando to the Mecca of all knowledge. The mystical and spiritual… Comic Book Store! - Nathan flies away in a supersonic cloud as he heads off to Primatech looking for answers to his questions. Tracy returns to Arthur and using her charms and experience in Marketing and P.R. convinces him that she can make Nathan the face of Pinehurst. - Matt walks the halls of Angela’s mind and Daphne shows up. I’m not sure if this is metaphoric or literal… but she stabs him in the back! - Angela finds a way to suck Arthur into her world and convinces him to let her go. With this task accomplished she is released from her coma. Matt and Daphne find themselves committed to each other and in love! - Ando shows Hiro the 9th Wonders Comic and the return of the eclipse. - In the finale, Peter, Claire and Nathan are reunited at Angela’s bedside with Matt and Daphne. Angela tells them that the third part of the formula, hidden by Hiro’s father can be found in the blood of the host. Claire, who remembers Sylar telling her that she is different from everyone else, is convinced that she is the catalyst! (I, however, am not as sure about this as she seems to be!)
The Alternative Takes Note:
And speaking of the eclipse (or solar flare depending on who you listen to), why is Arthur Petrelli so fascinated with it? Speculations include: 1. Those with abilities loose their powers during the eclipse 2. Something extraordinary takes place during the eclipse 3. The “catalyst” is more powerful during the eclipse 4. The eclipse enhances abilities in those who have power (and this is a bit frightening because of Arthur Petrelli and his “gift”!)
Trivia: Hiro, in the comic book store, references three shocking superhero comic plots because of his recent memory loss due to Arthur Petrelli’s mind-washing: 1. “Spider-Man reveals his secret identity to the world” – In what is quite possibly the most shocking and historical event in the Marvel legacy, Spider-man reveals his secret identity to the world as part of the Civil War storyline. In the Civil War Series [Civil War #2 (June 2006)] Peter Parker, dressed as Spider-Man, holds a press conference and reveals his secret identity to the world. 2. “Captain America died” - Daily Bugle: Captain America shot and killed Living legend assassinated on steps of Federal Courthouse By The Daily Bugle Staff Earlier today, we reported on the attempted assassination of a former superhero. We can now confirm that the victim has been identified as Steve Rogers, a.k.a. Captain America. Rogers was pronounced dead at Mercy Hospital due to injuries suffered from multiple gunshot wounds to the shoulder, chest and stomach. Eyewitness reports claim that the initial bullet, tagging Rogers in the shoulder, came from a sniper perched atop or in one of the buildings adjacent to the Federal Courthouse. Several other shots were fired during the ensuing commotion--hitting Rogers in the chest and stomach--but witnesses fleeing the scene, as well as the U.S. Marshals who were escorting Rogers, have stated there was only one sniper shot fired. ["Captain America Vol. 5, No. 25." The "Sentinel of Liberty"] 3. “The Hulk is red” - Red Hulk, referred to as Rulk in comic narration, is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Hulk #1 (January 2008) and was created by writer Jeph Loeb and artist Ed McGuiness.
The inevitable questions, questions, questions: 1. Why was Arthur distracted from Hiro by the painting of the eclipse? 2. Who is the “creature” that Mohinder is testing? It reminded me of Danny Pine (the metal-handed guy captured by Thompson and Claire’s mom during her training.) 3. Why is there a picture on an eclipse on Mohinder’s screen that is labeled “Solar Flare”? This doesn’t make much sense to me. 4. Why did Arthur take Hiro’s memories? What is he afraid Hiro will do? 5. Why have Sylar and Elle bonded? 6. What is the significance of the eclipse? 7. Who is the catalyst? 8. Why does Elle have a sudden change of opinion about Sylar? And where is this story-line (love story?) leading?
The Eclipse: An eclipse is an astronomical event that occurs when one celestial object moves into the shadow of another. The term is derived from the ancient Greek ekleipsis, which means, "I cease to exist." This gives me the impression that all abilities will be dampened or suspended during the phenomenon.
No synopsis or re-cap tonight - instead let's play spot the connections!!
(Note: I'll start and you see if you can add any others - Leave a comment or e-mail me if you found one I haven’t listed.
The Connections:
1. Hiro eats Usutu’s (the African Tribesman) concoction of hallucinogenic herbs and donkey poo and takes a spirit walk into the past as he follows the underworld in which Arthur Petrelli travels. Hiro is now connected to Matt Parkman who ate the same poo-goo. The difference? Matt walked into the future while Hiro stalked the past.
2. Arthur Petrelli and Linderman are in league and plot Nathan’s death. Nathan’s work as an assistant D.A. threatens to uncover their deceit and their, what else, connection. Also, we find that Linderman is aware of Arthur’s ability.
3. Thompson (Season 2 Primatech Company operative played by Eric Roberts) is trailing those with abilities and in Memphis, Tennessee he finds Meredith and Flint. We find out that Meredith and Flint are brother and sister, making flint Claire’s uncle. Another connection!
4. After Sylar’s first kill (Brian Davis who can move objects with his mind) guilt sets in and he attempts suicide. Fortunately, for fans of Zachary Quinto, Elle enters the watch shop and finds Sylar swinging from his noose. Using her ability she cuts him down before he can kill himself. Elle and Sylar are now, once again, connected! (Yes, you’ll get sick of hearing it after this post!)
5. Elle and Bennett (HRG) are working together for the Company and following Sylar’s every move. Bennett, who calls Sylar Mr. Gray (because this is in the past) is driving a Primatech Paper van. Elle, Sylar AND Bennett are connected.
6. Thompson captures Meredith in a convenient store hold up in Memphis and enlists her into the Company as an agent. Thompson and Meredith and by extension Claire are now… connected!
7. The attempt on Nathan’s life (with his wife Heidi in the car) on the highway is engineered by Linderman. Now we find out who was behind the attempted murder from Season 1.
8. Nathan tells his father that Linderman’s men caused the accident that paralyzed his wife and that he will do anything to put him behind bars, thus establishing the hatred and link between Linderman and Nathan. But why does Linderman haunt future Nathan?
9. Meredith and Thompson (A.K.A. Jim Farrell of the V.A.) begin working together in the field. Their first assignment? A bum named Danny Pine who has a unique ability (more details on this later in the trivia section). Meredith and Thompson are now linked via their partnership.
10. Sylar has a duplicate map (or a reasonable facsimile) to that of Chandra Suresh’s in his apartment. This is a convoluted connection in some ways and not of people but circumstance and the links on the maps are the numerous connections to many of the people in the world with abilities. BTW, these connections were established in the very first few episodes of Season 1 and solidified in this episode.
11. Sylar’s list of others with abilities shows five names; three of which become his future victims (Davis, Trevor and Charlene), Molly, who he attempts to capture but is saved by Matt Parkman and Sparrow Redhouse (whose past role eludes me at the moment.) Sylar is connected to four of the five people on the list. (More about the list can be found in the trivia section below.)
12, Flint is captured by Thompson and held in Cell 8 at Primatech. This is the second time that Flint has been caught and incarcerated at Primatech. Flint is then connected to a place – Level 5.
13. Angela finds out that her husband and Linderman are planning Nathan’s death. Arthur wipes her mind. Linderman mentions a guy in Montreal who worked for him in Vegas. Angela is now aware of the fact that the two are in league and are up to no good. Linderman is connected back to Vegas (and his Niki using days.)
14. Meredith releases her brother, Flint from his cell and tells him that “Daddy used to say, God gave you a big sister instead of a brain.” We might consider the parentage here for a moment: Just who IS Meredith and Flint’s Daddy? If Peter and Nathan, the children of those with abilities, both have powers then it follows suit that Meredith’s parents also have abilities and are somehow… connected!
15. Thompson catches Meredith and Flint on a train in Texas as they head for freedom in Mexico. This establishes a re-connection between the three of them. The ensuing battle that takes place causes a fire to erupt. What else when Flint and Meredith are involved?
16. Linderman tells Angela that Arthur is messing with her thoughts and that he has wiped her mind numerous times. A hint of subterfuge crosses her mind as she makes a lentil soup. Also, Linderman mentions his pot pies, which brings us back to the kitchen sequence in Vegas during Season 2 where he is cooking.
17. The fire on the train causes an explosion which derails the train. As Meredith and Thompson walk away from the scene they discuss Meredith’s long dead daughter. Thompson informs her that she is not dead. Enter Claire in her cheerleader uniform as she scampers into the train wreck to test her ability and unintentionally saves a man. We can now connect an event, the train wreck caused by Claire’s mother, to Claire, Meredith, Flint and Thompson.
18. We find that Elle has invited Trevor Zatslan (a name from Sylar’s list) to dinner and we find out the identity of Sylar’s second victim. Sylar and a name on his list are immediately connected. Of course, the connection is broken when Sylar saws his skull open.
19. Angella poisons Arthur’s soup which causes him a heart attack. Angela has invited the Haitian to ward off Arthur’s powers and making it impossible for him to change her mind. Note: We find that the Haitian is working for Angela Petrelli and by logic then we must conclude that Bennett is also working for her.
20. The mysterious bloody handprints on the door to Sylar’s inner sanctum (found by Mohinder in Season 1) are from Sylar’s be-skulling of Trevor. A visual from Season 1 is connected with this episode.
21. Angela and the Haitian plan the removal of Arthur Pettrelli’s body but Nathan finds his father on the floor and calls 9-1-1. This does two things: 1. It prevents Angella from completing her task and removing Arthur and 2. Sends Arthur to the hospital and within range of people he can manipulate with his mind.
22. Bennett leaves Texas on another mission. He catches a taxi which has just been vacated by Peter Petrelli and which is driven by Mohinder Suresh. The three are now connected in the past before they have ever actually met!
23. The doctor at the hospital tells Nathan and Angela that Arthur has passed away. (I got the feeling that she didn’t believe a word of it!) The poison has rendered Arthur incapable of movement but he controls the doctor’s mind and he agrees to provide another body to use for his cremation. This initiates the genesis of the Pinehurst Corporation!
24. Arthur Petrelli kills Usutu (presumable by thinking his head off?? I’m still shaking my head in wonder at this one folks…) and grabs Hiro by the head… (To be continued)
Trivia Section:
1. Early in the program Linderman refers to Arthur and Angela as “my King and King” inferring some type of royalty. I wonder what he knows?
2. Two new abilities were revealed tonight: 1. Danny Pine who has the ability to create a metal hand (didn’t Tycho Brahe do something similar in the mid-1500’s?) and 2. Trevor Zetslan who can shoot invisible energy bullets from his fingertips.
3. Usutu’s Paintings (as I saw them): a. Arthur Petrelli b. The symbol c. A man in a red haz-met suit? d. A woman in a blue dress (Tracy maybe?) e. Dead man in a large pool of blood f. Flint with hands ablaze g. Sylar cutting a skull open h. Benjamin Knox punching someone or something i. Matt Parkman holding Daphne in his arms
4. Sylar’s list:
“Brian Davis 14 Berman St. NY NY
Trevor Zetslan 212-555-0142
Janis Walker (Molly) Los Angeles
Charlene Andrews Burnt Toast Diner Midland, TX
Sparrow Redhouse New Mexico”
Note: The list is written on “Gray and Sons” stationary and has “No. 611936” printed in the lower right hand corner of the sheet. All the names on the list are connected to Sylar, who is in my estimation, PATIENT ZERO!!!
Due to a death in the family the last two episode of Heroes will not be reviewed on this blog. I apologize for it but some things cannot be helped. The Alternative.
Opening Montage As heroes opens Nathan speaks over multiple scenes about the nature of special abilities and how they are gifts from God. We see the scenes change from Nathan and Tracy in bed together after Nathan’s high-flying rescue, Mohinder sits in Central Park eyeing a young drug dealer, Claire is seen sitting in her car outside a pawn shop and has just purchased a very illegal taser, and Hiro and Ando are found muscling Adam’s casket from out of his grave.
Nathan and Linderman – Washington, D. C. Nathan offers Linderman a drink, which he refuses (because he ain’t real), and asks him for straight answers to his questions. He asks how Linderman knew that Tracy was in trouble and Linderman reverts to Biblical-ese. Nathan tells Linderman that he is NOT a messenger from God, Tracy walks in on the discussion and asks Nathan who he’s talking to!
Mohinder and the drug dealer – Central Park, New York Mohinder pretends to need a fix and when the drug dealer asks if he needs the usual bill of fare Mohinder tells him that he needs something stronger and accosts the man.
Peter and Sylar - Primatech Facility – New Jersey – Level 5 Peter materializes inside Sylar’s cell on Level 5 and attacks him without preamble. In the scuffle Peter breaks Sylar’s neck! Angela comes screaming and demands to know what Peter is doing. As Peter buzzes his mothers head open Sylar resurrects, fixes his neck and throws Peter into the glass wall of the cell, thereby protecting his mother from death by finger-saw. Noah Bennett meets Sylar in the hall and tells him that they have a lead on a new target.
Mrs. Bennett and Meredith (Claire’s biological mother) – Costa Verde, California Mrs. Bennett realizes that Claire lied to her about the cheerleading camp and is furious. As she goes through a box of Noah’s secret papers she uncovers the identity of two new villains; Stephen Canfield and Eric Doyle. Stephen can create vortexes and force people and things into them never to be seen. We are not told Eric Doyle’s power at this time but Meredith recognizes him and is afraid that Claire might run into him. She leaves quickly to look for Claire.
Stephen Canfield and Claire – Somewhere in California Canfield is on the phone and explains that he wants his family back. There is resistance and he opens a vortex and forces papers through it. As it snaps shut Claire enters the house and tazers Canfield into unconsciousness.
Adam, Hiro and Ando – Adam’s gravesite When Hiro opens Adam’s casket he is attacked. Ando cleverly slams the coffin shut saving Hiro. A truce is struck and Adam is released. When Hiro discusses the formula Adam acknowledges that he is aware of it and that Angela Petrelli is the villain behind it.
Linderman and Daphne – In undisclosed office building Linderman tells Daphne that a New World Order is on the rise and that she must begin to recruit more aggressively. He shows her a picture of Mohinder and instructs her to recruit him because it is time “to give them purpose!” Daphne is only in it for the money and tells him so.
Sylar and Noah Bennett – On the road – Somewhere in California Noah tells Sylar that their partnership was Angela’s idea and not his. Sylar tells him that rehabilitation doesn’t happen overnight.
Stephen Canfield and Claire – Somewhere in California Claire has taken Canfield prisoner and tells him that she is taking him to Level 5 to be detained. She believes him to be a villain and a killer. Canfield confesses to killing a man but by accident in the heat of an argument and that his only wish is to see his family again, even if for the last time. Claire calls him a monster as he conjures a vortex and sweeps the tazer into the well of darkness.
Mohinder and Maya – Isaac Mendez’s old studio – Manhattan, New York Mohinder drags the obviously dead drug dealer into his lab. As he removes his shirt we find that his skin condition (or lack thereof) has gotten worse. Maya enters and asks Mohinder why he didn’t come home the night before. She presents him with a missing person flyer for his neighbor and Mohinder feigns ignorance. He then claims to be working hard to find the cure but Maya sees the blood trail on the floor, is obviously frightened, and excuses herself quickly. In the back room of the lab we see that Mohinder has cocooned his neighbor to the wall.
Stephen Canfield and Claire – Somewhere in California Canfield continues to support his stance that he is not a monster but someone who made a mistake. This time, Claire, who is now his prisoner, listens more closely. When he tells Claire that he never meant to hurt anyone a glimmer of understanding becomes apparent. When Canfield discovers that Claire is not from the company he tells her that she can go! Claire is surprised at being released and begins to realize that she may be mistaken about Stephen Canfield.
Nathan and Tracy – Washington, D. C. Nathan quizzes Tracy on why she felt she needed to kill herself. When she confesses that she killed the reporter to keep him from writing the story about her being Niki Sanders we realize that she could not handle the guilt of taking another life. When Nathan tells her that God gave them the power she tells him flat out that it was really a Doctor in Reseda, California.
Stephen Canfield, Claire, Sylar and Noah Bennett – Somewhere in California Claire helps Canfield track down the phone number for his family and during the call asks them to meet him. They agree but Noah Bennett and Sylar arrive with guns drawn (for HRG, literally and for Sylar, figuratively). Canfield grabs Claire and opens a min black hole in his living room. As the vortex sucks Claire and Noah into its maw Sylar grabs Claire and saves her from disappearing into the hole. During the disturbance Canfield escapes and Noah quizzes Claire about Canfield’s location. She declares that he is not a killer and Noah tells her that if that is true they will make other arrangements rather than imprisoning him. (Does anyone out there really believe that Noah’s statement is sincere? I sure didn’t!)
Adam, Hiro and Ando – A corner tavern The threesome enters a tavern and Adam tells Hiro and Ando that this is the place to be for “specials for hire.” Hiro immediately equates it with the Cantina from the Star Wars movie. When the three put on their tough guy swaggers the bartender, who recognizes Adam, attacks and knocks Hiro unconscious. During the fight Adam escapes the bar and Hiro’s immediate influence.
Angela, Nathan, Tracy and Peter – Primatech Facility – New Jersey – Level 5 Tracy and Nathan arrive at Level 5 and Angela tells them that she has put Peter into a medically induced coma because he has Sylar’s hunger and is suffering the consequences. She then tells Tracy that her and her sisters (Niki and Barbara, who we’ve yet to meet) were given their abilities synthetically. Then, she tells Nathan that when he did not observe any abilities naturally that he too was synthetically enhanced with his ability to fly.
Mohinder and Maya – Isaac’s old studio – Manhattan, New York Maya enters the empty lab and finds the cocooned neighbor and the drug dealer stuck to the wall. When Mohinder enters she hides beneath the gurney but he realizes that she is there and begins searching for her. Maya’s powers kick in and Mohinder and the neighbor become shows signs of the effect (their eyes burn brightly black.) Mohinder implores her to fight it and she does. The effect rescinds. She calls him a monster and he advances…
Hiro, Ando, Adam and Benjamin Knox – Exterior of the tavern In the alley Hiro and Ando search for Adam who escapes detection but is cold cocked by Knox and thrown in his van. Knox dials a number on his phone and tells his boss (presumably Linderman) that Adam is in his custody. He also asks what to do about Hiro and Ando.
Angela, Nathan and Tracy – Primatech Facility – New Jersey – Level 5 Angela continues to discuss synthetic abilities with Nathan and Tracy and tells him that he was not born with the genetic code. She confesses that they wronged those who were given abilities synthetically and that is the reason why the formula was hidden. Nathan demands to know who else was used as guinea pigs and believes that finding Mohinder Suresh might give them the answers they seek.
Mohinder and Maya – Isaac’s old studio – Manhattan, New York Mohinder has gone over the edge and cocooned Maya. Now he has three victims wallpapered to his laboratory wall.
Stephen Canfield, Claire, Noah and Sylar (on the sideline) – Somewhere in California (at the carousel) Claire finds Canfield seated at the carousel and tells him that Noah is willing to listen to his story. He tells Claire that his family never showed up and that they are afraid of him. Noah shows up and pointing a gun at Canfield’s head tells him that if he vortexes Sylar he can walk away. Canfield continues to admit that he is not a killer but Noah tells him that he is not asking. Sylar stands innocently at the car and is unaware what Noah is attempting. Canfield realizes that he cannot create a black hole to kill Sylar and opens a small vortex in his hand, drags himself through it, and disappears!
Hiro, Ando, Daphne and Benjamin Knox – Back inside the tavern Hiro and Ando are drowning their sorrows when Daphne shows up with Benjamin Knox in tow. Daphne tells them that they are recruiting and Hiro immediately tells her that they are badass and want to join! Knox retrieves a sword from the wall and tells Hiro that he must commit a criminal act to join them and that he must kill Ando! “Kill Ando?” Daphne and Hiro echo each other in surprise. Hiro then tells Ando that he must make a sacrifice to save the world and shoves the blade through Ando’s abdomen. Ando falls lifeless to the floor.
Eric Doyle and Meredith – Also, somewhere in California Eric has taken complete physical control over Meredith’s body. She mimics his movements during dinner and demands that she kiss him. Her mind, however, is resistant but she cannot deny his power and does as he asks. As the camera pans through Eric’s apartment it stops on a group of marionettes and we are given his true power. Eric Doyle is a puppeteer!
Angela Petrelli – Primatech facility – Level 5 (Bob’s old office) Angela drifts off into a dream state and is awoken by a scream. It is obvious that she is in one of her trances but she heads out into the hall and finds Tracy on the floor with her throat cut. Nathan has a huge gash on his forehead, similar to Sylar’s buzzing maneuver and appears dead. Peter stands before her with his hands covered in blood. “Tell me you didn’t do this!” she implores and Peter falls to the floor with a foot-long length of pipe imbedded in the back of his head.
Angela is surprised by the presence of a stranger wearing the same ring as the original conspirators whose features are blurred in the dream. He tells her that she is meddling and that her foresight into the future is dangerous. He also tells her that she won’t be able to move. We then see Angela seated at her desk totally immobile.
Daphne and Linderman – Pinehearst Company – Fort Lee, New Jersey Daphne tells Linderman that she is not a killer and is only in it for the money. Linderman tells her that she needs to recruit another and that he is very important. He shows her a photo of Matt Parkman! Daphne is confused and tells Linderman that her ability allows her to sneak up on anyone but not him! She waves a folder at him, which travels through him and she realizes that he is not real. Linderman claims that this fact is not important at that she must bring him Parkman!
Matt Parkman’s father steps out of the shadows when Daphne leaves and enters the Pinehearst Company building. He comes to a hospital room and has a discussion with a mysterious man in a bed hooked up to a ventilator. In one-half of a conversation he tells the stranger that Daphne is spreading the word and gaining recruits and that Knox will have Adam Monroe brought to him tomorrow. In the end Matt’s dad calls the stranger… Mr. Petrelli! (And now we know that Arthur Petrelli is truly pulling the strings!!!)
The Alternative takes notes:
New Villains: 1. Stephen Canfield – Creates vortexes (small black holes) which anything that enters is never seen again. To me this was a very cool ability and was eliminated much too early in the season. I’d have liked to see more of Canfield and his guilt-ridden dilemma throughout the season. Unfortunately, the writers have written in many disposable characters and abilities this season. 2. Eric Doyle – The Puppeteer – We are not originally told what Eric’s ability is but throughout the show we begin to understand that he can take complete physical control over someone and dictate their moves. We also find out that while the mind is resistant to his power the body id not. Meredith is finding this out (or reliving it) for us. 3. Mohinder – Spider Man? – Mohinder is becoming something unexplainable before our eyes. He is susceptible to light, creates a sticky substance on his hands, is losing his flesh in great slabs, and has begun to cocoon his victims. Why is he doing this? And what is he saving them for?
Humorous lines: Adam calls Hiro a “little Japanese Nazi” which I found extremely funny. Hiro and Ando tell Adam that when they take him back to Level 5 “we’ll give you a nice cell with a window… and a vent!” Also, very funny, especially considering last week’s episode when Hiro and Ando tried to escape through the vent system. Sylar says: “Rehabilitation doesn’t happen overnight!” As if!!
Symbol Sighting: 1. The Pinehearst Company’s logo encompasses the DNA strand and the symbol which is shown in the episode when Linderman and Daphne are talking. 2. The symbol is seen on the wall in Mohinder’s lab adjacent to the neighbor and his cocoon. It is not clear if this is a new sighting or a painting left over from Isaac Mendez.
Triva: For those engaged in the Heroes ARG (Alternative reality Game) some clues were revealed this evening. Note: I’m not playing so this may be old or recycled information. Stephen Canfield asks Claire if she is working for the Pinehearst Company and shows her the business card. On it we see the following: www.pinehearstcompany.com Pinehearst Company 26877 Century Drive Fort Lee, NJ 07024 Ph # 877.309.7463
Mohinder, who is still losing skin and other adverse side effects of the formula, continues to study the effects of the formula but is interrupted by shouting in an apartment upstairs. When he investigates the man pushes him and Mohinder uses his new-found strength to bash him into the wall. The wife objects and Mohinder backs off.
Reseda, California
Tracy Strauss is meeting with Dr. Zimmerman to find out why and how she has the ability to freeze matter. He tells her that Tracy, Niki and Barbara were three test subjects that were given powers by manipulating DNA. When she asks for more information Zimmerman relays to her that a company was involved but that they made him forget everything about the research. She gets angry and demands that he take the powers away. When he tells her she cannot she begins to freeze him but releases him before he splinters into ice shards.
Somewhere in Africa
Matt Parkman is looking at the painting of him carrying a woman. When he asks the tribesman who she is he is told that it is his future to unravel. Matt takes a green porridge from a bowl and eats asking if it will help him see the future. When that doesn’t work the Tribesman places his headphones on Matt whose eyes then turn white (i.e. Isaac Mendez fashion). Matt dreams…
New York City – Four Years in the Future
Future Peter and Present Peter arrive in the future and people everywhere have abilities. Some speed by quickly, to fast for the eye to see, as others fly away on their normal daily rounds. Future Peter tells his companion (a younger himself – I don’t think I’ll ever get the terminology of time travel straight) that all those with abilities will destroy the world. Future Peter asks Present Peter to find out who has developed the formula and to stop him. In the process he tells him not to step on too many butterflies (referring once again to the Butterfly Effect). Future Claire suddenly appears and shoots Future Peter. As Present Peter flees the Haitian tries to capture him but Peter hits him as he goes by.
(Note: The poor Haitian has taken a beating the past two episodes – First, Ando whacks him at the movie theatre and then Present Peter does the same in the alley.) Claire stands over the body of Future Peter with Benjamin Knox and Daphne and tells them that Future Peter is not dead! Claire tells them that they need Molly (Molly Walker from season one) to find the younger Present Peter so that she can kill him.
Primatech Facility – Level Two – Hartsdale, New York
Hiro and Ando are locked in a cell at Primatech and discuss a means to escape. Ando is angry that Hiro does not trust him and that it all stems from Future Ando killing Future Hiro.
Washington, D.C.
Nathan is choosing a desk for his new senatorial office when Linderman shows up again. Linderman again declares that Nathan is the only one that can see him and that he wants to make him the next President of the United States. Linderman tells Nathan that this is the path to salvation and Nathan tells him he wants none of it if Linderman is leading the way.
Manhattan, New York
Mohinder continues to deteriorate and is now highly sensitive to sunlight. Maya tells him that he is working too hard but he tells her that it is too help eliminate her power. In his audio journal he explains that the formula is transforming him. (Just into what has not yet been determined.)
Manhattan, New York – Four Years in the Future
Present Peter comes to see Mohinder who has digressed into… something very different. Among Isaac’s old paintings Present Peter asks Mohinder to help him find Sylar because he needs his powers. Mohinder tells him that he got the formula wrong and that Sylar’s power is very dangerous (as if we didn’t know that!)
Bennett House – Four Years in the Future – Costa Verde, California
Gabriel and his son Noah (huh!) are making breakfast when Present Peter arrives. When Sylar realizes that this Peter is from the past he tells him that his power is a hunger that consumes and pushes a person to know more and to want to have more. Present Peter tells Sylar that he can save the world!
Four Years in the Future – Matt’s Dream
Daphne and Matt are married and have a small baby together. Molly Walker lives with them. They are discussing the fact that Present Peter and Future Peter must be stopped.
Future Claire, Future Daphne and Future Benjamin Knox discuss the best way to eliminate both Present and Future Peter.
Bennett House – Four Years in the Future – Costa Verde, California
Present Peter asks Sylar to paint the future. When his eyes roll up in his head and he finishes we find the picture of the world exploding, again! Sylar hands Peter the Sylar watch he’s kept all those years and tells him that if he can fix it he will gain his powers. Present Peter fixes the watch using his powers.
Future Knox, Daphne and Claire enter the house and take Noah, Sylar’s son, captive. A fight, in super-fast motion, begins between Daphne and Peter as Sylar and Knox battle it out. Knox throws the table into Noah killing him and Sylar becomes angry, kicks Knox’s ass and then in a whirling, throbbing ball of flame explode into an immense nuclear cloud.
Primatech Facility – Level Two – Hartsdale, New York
Hiro and Ando are trying to escape out the vent in the ceiling and are discussing their friendship woes. Hiro apologizes to Ando and just as he is about to escape the Haitian appears.
Washington, D.C.
Tracy Strauss tries to turn herself in for the murder of the reporter but freezes the telephone in an emotional outburst. The phone falls to the floor and breaks into pieces.
Manhattan, New York
Mohinder is studying the mutation and remarks to his audio journal that he cannot reverse the effects of the formula. A knock on the door interrupts his work and it is the bully from the apartment upstairs. The man punches Mohinder and tells him that he doesn’t know who he’s dealing with. Mohinder says, “Neither do you!” and snatches him into the laboratory. Presumably, to be guinea pig number one.
Washington, D.C.
In the meantime, Nathan is visited by Tracy who hands in her resignation. Nathan is surprised and Linderman tells him that he must go after her and that he must pray for guidance.
Tracy Strauss is then seen on the bridge overlooking the mall in D.C. over the Potomac River. In a suicidal attempt she jumps but is rescued by a flying Nathan. Later, at Tracy’s apartment she understands that she is not the only one with powers and shows Nathan her ability. They kiss and the rest is well… history or the future or the past. I’m having trouble keeping up!
Four Years in the Future
Outside the Primatech Company, beneath a large ornamental piece of art in the shape of the symbol, President Nathan Petrelli and the First Lady Tracy are mourning the loss of life at Costa Verde, Californian in the explosion. During the press conference Nathan tells the nation to find their loved ones and pray for the souls of the dead.
Four Years in the Future
Future Peter lies dead on a gurney as Present Peter is confronted by Future Claire and the Haitian. She tells him that 200,000 died in Costa Verde and that he is going to feel the pain of every last victim. She cuts Peter over the chest a number of times but before she can really begin the butchery Nathan steps into the room and commands her to stop. Claire asks if it’s the President or her father asking. When he says, “both” she leaves. Nathan releases Peter from his bonds and tells him that one man cannot save the world. Nathan tells Peter that he knows he doesn’t trust him and that he should read his mind. Peter admits that Nathan believes what he is saying but thinks he’s wrong. In a fit of rage Peter buzzes through Nathan’s head and time warps away…
Primatech Facility – Level Five – Hartsdale, New York - Present Day
Sylar is still captive in his cell on Level Five as Peter appears and grabs Sylar by the throat. Sylar looks into his eyes and reveals that Peter has the hunger! Peter tells him that he will not become evil but Sylar tells him that he already is. In the process he also calls Peter, brother!
Somewhere in Africa
Matt Parkman is still in a trance. He watches T.V. with Molly as the tragedy at Costa Verde, California unravels on the news. He is obviously upset because he knows that Daphne went to Costa Verde. Daphne appears at the door and Matt is obviously relieved to see her but she tells Matt that she wasn’t fast enough. As she falls Matt sees that her entire back has been badly burned. This scene then renders the Tribesman's painting of Matt holding Daphne true.
Primatech Facility – Hartsdale, New York
Angela and the Haitian are discussing the formula with Hiro and Ando after their failed escape attempt. Angela tells Hiro about how the formula can turn normal people into those with abilities. Ando tells her that Hiro will not rest until the formula has been safely rescued. Angela tells him that he is the only one that can do it and that he holds the key to the mystery.
Later, Hiro and Ando are seen in the dark in a cemetery exhuming a coffin. When they open it they find a less than happy Adam…
Trivia:
At the Pinehurst Company we see two pieces of sculpture that are in the shape of the symbol. Also, the logo for Pinehurst is the DNA strand.
The Tribesman tells Matt Parkman to “find his totem” and that it will “guide you on your journey.” When Matt asks if that was a tribal thing he tells him that it is Carl Jung “Analytical Psychology.”
Mohinder’s first audio journal entry is 13 and the second is 16 which means that they must be relatively close in time together.
The number on Mohinder’s laboratory # is 681.
The apartment that Matt, Daphne, Molly and the baby share looks suspiciously like Peter’s old apartment.
The Tribesman is wearing a Universal Studios t-shirt.
Observations:
1. Power Dampening at Pinehurst
There is obviously some "thing" at the Pinehurst Facility that dampens powers. With the Haitian travelling to Germany, etc. it is not feasable that he is the source of the dampening. There must be some other mode being used to restrict the abilities of those enprisoned there.
Also, with Hiro and Ando being held captive on Level Two and the real villains on Level Five it makes me wonder about what is being kept on Levels Three and Four. And... is ther a Level Six?
2. The Zimmerman family?
When Tracy visits Dr. Zimmerman the above photo is seen in the house. Dr. Zimmerman, one of the three test subjects (Tracy, Niki, or Barbara) an unknown woman, and The German. Hmmm... the plot thickens!
3. Noah Petrelli
Sylar's son Noah calls Peter Uncle when he first comes into the home. Does this mean that in the future Sylar is unveiled as Gabriel a brother? Or, is Claire the mother? More to think about...
Primatech Facility – Level 5 – Hartsdale, New York
Sylar is still captive at Level 5 and Angela Pettrelli visits. During discussion Angela tells Sylar that he is her son and was given up for adoption. She also tells him that he must be strong for what is to come. She then introduces him to Bridget, a person with the ability to read an objects history, and tells Sylar that she is going to feed him! Her screams echo throughout Level 5 as Angela walks away untroubled.
Washington, D.C.
Tracy Strauss practices her ‘new’ skill of freezing on a rose as Nathan is sworn in as the Junior Senator of New York. Future Peter visits Nathan who demands to know what has happened to Present Peter.
Poughkeepsie, New York
The escaped villains from Level 5, including Present Peter in the guise of Jesse, enter a bank and begin a robbery. The German closes all the metal blinds while Flint throws flames as a show of power. Knox and Jesse watch the prisoners and
Primatech Facility – Level 5 – Hartsdale, New York
Noah Bennett and Angela Pettrelli hatch a plan to re-capture the Level 5 escapees. She explains that the Haitian is on another mission and that he has a new partner. Guess who? Enter Sylar in his best MIB business suit.
Poughkeepsie, New York
The German unlocks the safe using his power and Flint shows us that he’s just another criminal when he tells a woman that she’s just his type, in a not very friendly way.
Bennett House – Costa Verde, California
Mrs. Bennett feeds breakfast to Meredith, Claire’s mom, who declares that she is only there to help protect the Bennett family in Noah’s absence. Mrs. Bennett is less than happy at the new house guest’s presence.
Primatech Facility – Level 5 – Hartsdale, New York
Meanwhile, Noah Bennett argues with Angela Pettrelli about being partnered with Sylar for the mission of recapturing the Level 5 escapees. When he tells her that Sylar tried to kill Claire she tells him that Claire can’t die and neither can Sylar, now.
Berlin, Germany
At a movie theatre in Berlin, Hiro and Ando are on the lookout for Daphne when she shows up moments later in a flash of speed. Hiro refers to Daphne as “Nemesis” when she tells him that she is there for the second half of the formula. Hiro is taken completely by surprise when she tells him her plans but she is confident that he cannot stop her. As she tries to run away she finds that her powers are not working. The Haitian must be close!
Costa Verde, California
Claire wants to fight bad guys and tells her mother so. But Meredith asks her how she is going to learn to fight. She has only protected herself in the past and has not used her power to fight. Claire asks Meredith to teach her to fight.
Washington, D.C.
Tracy visits Nathan and shows him the video of Niki and he having sex in Las Vegas. Tracy insists that she is not Niki but is very curious about her and tells Nathan that she has found an address from her in New Orleans and that she is going to pay a visit.
Poughkeepsie, New York
Inside the band Benjamin Knox uses his powers to punch his fist through the chest of The German (exit another “throw-away” villain) and tells Jesse/Present Peter that he called the police so that Noah Bennett shows up. All he wants in revenge!
Somewhere in Africa
Matt Parkman and the Tribesman are on a Spirit Walk. Matt asks him how he knows his name and he responds by saying from his badge. Matt notices that he is not wearing his badge. The Tribesman then shows him a painting he did as a little boy. It is a painting of Matt finding Molly Walker in the very first episode of Heroes. Note: This is well before the event has even happened. Then the Tribesman shows Matt an entire wall of paintings that depicts many images of Matt throughout his history, past and future!
Primatech Facility – Level 5 – Hartsdale, New York
Sylar in his MIB suit asks Angela if she is really his mother. She affirms that he is and tells him that the deaths are not his fault but that he has a hunger to feed! Berlin, Germany
While a Buster Keaton movie plays in the foreground Hiro and Ando devise a plan to follow the Haitian as Hiro recognizes him from the future. Daphne shows up and tries to psyche out Ando by calling him Hiro’s Robin. Hiro tells Ando that she is just using “Villainy 101” on him, the funniest line of the evening.
Somewhere in Africa
The Tribesman is proving that he has identical powers to that of Isaac Mendez as his eyes turn white during a painting session. Matt finds a painting of himself, his wife and a child but the Tribesman covers the painting with white paint and tells him that the future has changed.
Poughkeepsie, New York
When Noah Bennett and Sylar arrive at the scene of the bank robbery Benjamin Knox is ready for revenge. Using the oldest ploy in the penitentiary book, testing with inside information, Knox discovers that Jesse is not who he says he is.
Outside the bank Noah and Sylar have arrived on the scene and Noah takes charge. Sylar is to stay close and keep his mouth shut. When they arrive at the police barricade Sylar jumps in and in a convincing Bronx accent identifies himself as special agent Andrew Hanson. He orders the police to move the barricades back before civilians get hurt and to bring coffee. Noah rolls his eyes at Sylar’s antics.
Inside the bank Benjamin Knox begins to pummel Peter demanding to know what he’s done with his friend Jesse.
Berlin, Germany
As the Haitian picks up the second half of the formula Hiro and Ando sneak up on the exchange. Surprisingly, the Haitian knows that the formula was in the possession of Angela Pettrelli.
Poughkeepsie, New York
As Noah Bennett dons a bullet proof vest Sylar asks him to let him help capture the villains in the bank. Bennett orders him to interview the survivors and spin the event to more mundane reasons.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Tracy Strauss arrives at a funeral home in New Orleans and finds Niki dead in a coffin. A photo of Niki and Micah tells her that something strange is indeed going on. Micah finds Tracy and asks her if she has a power too. He tells her that he can talk to machines and consults a computer to find out more about his mother and Tracy. After a second of searching he uncovers information that shows Niki and Tracy were born on the same day in the same hospital and were delivered by the same doctor, Dr. Zimmerman.
Berlin, Germany
Hiro confronts the Haitian and tells him that the briefcase he’s holding, which now contains the formula, belongs to him. Ando comes up from behind and hits the Haitian who falls down the stairs. As soon as his power damping ability is rendered useless Daphne streaks in and steals the briefcase replacing it with a bag of theatre popcorn.
Poughkeepsie, New York
Benjamin Knox takes Noah Bennett hostage and ties him to a chair. It is evident that he wants to torture him as part of the act of revenge. Present Peter uses Jesse’s sound locution power to stop the torture but Future Peter stops time and releases Present Peter from within Jesse.
Costa Verde, California
Inside a shipping container Meredith tests Claire’s reasons for wanting to fight the villains by sucking the oxygen out of the container with her fire power. She tells Claire that they are going to start at the beginning and learn survival.
Poughkeepsie, New York
Inside the bank, Sylar rescues Noah Bennett and holding Knox and Jesse at bay using his powers.
Costa Verde, California
Inside the container, Claire tells Meredith that she is indestructible but Meredith asks her if she’s ever suffocated and sucks the air from the container all the while pushing her to tell why she wants to fight villains. In the end she says, “To hurt him for what he did to me!” Obviously, she’s not happy with what Sylar has done.
Poughkeepsie, New York
Back inside the bank Sylar intends to take Jesse’s power and makes his wishes known to Noah who tells him to fight the impulse. Sylar explains that he cannot help himself because, “It’s the hunger!” Then Sylar buzzes Jesse’s forehead for his power.
Costa Verde, California
Claire’s mom tries to explain her motives. Sucking the oxygen from her lungs was for her own good. Meredith says, “You have to save yourself before you can save the world!”
Somewhere in Africa
At the Tribesman’s painting wall Matt sees a painting of himself carrying a dead woman. The Tribesman tells him that he can stop it from happening.
Costa Verde, California
Mrs. Bennett gets nasty with Meredith and tells her to leave Claire alone. The doorbell rings and one of Claire’s friends from school is at the door. Claire explains that she has a cheerleading event to attend and has to leave.
Reseda, California
Tracy Strauss visits Dr. Zimmerman. When he opens the door the first thing he asks is if she is the one from Beverly Hills. Tracy asks if he knows her. “Know you?” He says, “I created you!”
Somewhere in Africa
As a turtle crawls through a 9th Wonder comic book the Tribesman tells Matt that he too can see the future but his attempts are futile. The Tribesman hands the headphones to Matt whose eyes turn white immediately. Somehow the music, or sounds, coming from the headphones are able to amplify the power to see the future.
In the ending montage we see Nathan reading from the book of Genesis, Micah looking at the picture of himself and his mother, Claire in her car driving with a Primatech Paper box on the front seat and Hiro, Ando and Flint being brought back to Level 5. The Haitian asks Noah Bennett if he is being replaced and he tells him that it is only long enough to find Sylar’s weakness so he can kill him.
The Alternative Takes Notes:
New Character:
Bridget – Ability – Any object she touches she can see its history. She is devoured by Sylar in the opening scene which was a bit disappointing to me. I thought this ability would be a very cool addition to the program. I am certain that we’ll be seeing many more “throw away” heroes and villains this season, which is very exciting.
Trivia note:
During the bank heist Flint mentions the Stockholm Syndrome which is a psychological response sometimes seen in an abducted hostage, in which the hostage shows signs of loyalty to the hostage-taker, regardless of the danger (or at least risk) in which they have been placed. The syndrome is named after the Norrmalmstorg robbery of Kreditbanken at Norrmalmstorg, Stockholm, Sweden, in which the bank robbers held bank employees hostage from August 23 to August 28 in 1973. In this case, the victims became emotionally attached to their victimizers, and even defended their captors after they were freed from their six-day ordeal. The term Stockholm Syndrome was coined by the criminologist and psychiatrist Nils Bejerot, who assisted the police during the robbery, and referred to the syndrome in a news broadcast.
Tribesman’s Paintings:
We’ve discovered that the African Tribesman has the same power that Isaac Mendez had and that he can paint the future. We are shown a number of paintings found in the desert. Below is a screen cap of the many paintings with a description of each.
Note: The following list is of every one of the Tribesman’s paintings we’ve seen this season.
The Paintings: 1. Explosion of the Earth (not shown in chapter three) 2. Matt Parkman meeting Molly Walker (from season one) 3. Matt and the Tribesman (it appears as if someone is pointing a weapon at Matt) 4. A woman throwing someone out a window 5. Unidentified person screaming, face of a man below 6. Figures looking at Matt with his gun drawn 7. Sylar on the gurney at Level 5 with Noah looking down at him 8. Matt with a smoking gun in his hand 9. Matt with wife and child 10. Matt carrying a dead woman
Trivia: When Hiro and Ando visit Berlin, Germany looking for Daphne they arrive at a movie theatre which is playing the 1922 Buster Keaton movie Cops. The scene plaing in the foreground is regarded by many critics as one of the greatest silent-film chase sequences of all time.
(The night of one-hundred vignettes (actually only 40)… trying to keep up with the two episodes last night was like running a sprint carrying a bus; stronger for it but totally exhausted in the end!)
Recap of events:
Manhattan, New York – The Future (Four Years From Now)
Future Peter, who is on the run, is confronted by Future Claire in an abandoned warehouse or parking structure in Manhattan. Future Claire points a gun at Peter’s head and tells him that it “must end.” Peter tells Claire that that he is “going back to the day they found out” so that the camps and the hunting of people with powers will stop.
Claire shoots him but Peter stops time and takes the gun away.
Odessa, Texas – Present Day
Future Peter, in disguise, shoots Nathan during an important press conference in which Nathan will reveal that people with incredible powers are moving freely in the world and that they are extremely dangerous. (Thus, revealing the identity of the assailant from the season two finale.) Claire calls Peter and offers her restorative blood to help save Nathan’s life but Peter who tells her to remain in California. In the meantime, at the hospital, Nathan dies but is miraculously resurrected.
Tokyo, Japan – Yamagato Industries – Present Day
A very bored Hiro diddles with time when he finds himself quest less. A corporate lawyer delivers a DVD which he says is a message from Hiro’s father.
Costa Verde, California – Present Day
Claire decides to leave for Texas anyway but before she can leave Sylar enters the house and stalks her.
Manhattan, New York – Present Day
Mohinder tells Maya that he has given up and wishes to return to India (Where have we heard that before?) Maya becomes angry and her power manifests but she controls it, even without her brother. Mohinder is struck with a revelation that the Adrenal Gland is the key to the powers and experiments with Maya’s blood.
Tokyo, Japan – Yamagato Industries – Present Day
Hiro and Ando view the DVD. Hiro’s father reveals that his “sacred duty” is to become the sentinel of a secret which is hidden in the office safe. He instructs Hiro to “never open the safe!” He admits that one-half of an important formula is hidden in the safe and must be protected. They are told: For the ‘purity of blood use the “light” to safeguard against darkness. Of course, Hiro opens the safe and examines the formula.
Then in a flurry of flying office papers and a flash of speed the formula is removed from Hiro’s hand. He immediately freezes time and follows the trail to find… a Hero with the gift of super speed but she escapes with the formula!
Odessa, Texas – Present Day
Matt Parkman, who is evidently working security for Nathan, finds the gun that Peter stashed and confronts him. Peter shows him the scar revealing that he is Future Peter. Matt then disappears!
Future Peter tells his brother that he must stop him from changing the future! Nathan visits the hospital chapel and reveals that; “I saw God today! And his message is that we are all connected! To save the world we must save ourselves!”
Manhattan, New York – Present Day
After testing Maya’s blood Mohinder believes that he has found “the source” of the power which he thinks can be given to anyone. From “the source” he concocts a serum.
Odessa, Texas – Present Day
Claire continues to hide from Sylar who finds Noah Bennett’s folder concerning Level 5, Primatech’s underground holding area for villains. Claire attacks Sylar and stabs him in the chest with a knife but he subdues her and as is his nature buzzes the top of her skull off. As Sylar steals something from Claire’s open brain she asks him if he’s going to eat her brain. Sylar’s response? “That’s disgusting!
Sylar heals himself as does Claire and as he leaves he tells Claire that she can never die and now neither can he!
Manhattan, New York – Present Day
Mohinder is determined to use the serum from Maya to give abilities to everyone. Maya worries that it will get into the wrong hands but Mohinder declares that it’s already in the wrong hands! A clandestine organization wants all the power!
Maya implores him to destroy the serum.
Odessa, Texas – Present Day
Nathan tells Future Peter that he was “touched by God” and that God brought him back. He promises Future Peter that he won’t reveal the powers to the world because then they could not do the work of angels!
Linderman makes an entrance and Nathan exclaims, “You healed me!”
Washington, D.C. - Present Day
Governor Malden and Tracy Strauss (a Niki/Jessica look-a-like or the trifecta of bad-ass-babes) conspire to bring Nathan Petrelli into their political stable. The discussion veers subtly towards blackmail.
Somewhere in Africa – Present Day
Matt Parkman wakes up in the middle of the desert with a scorpion crawling on his face. Evidently, Future Peter wants Matt far, far away!
Tokyo, Japan – Present Day and The Future
Ando and Hiro discuss finding the speedster but Hiro refuses to visit the past for fear of being trapped again. He decides to visit the future. When he arrives sirens are wailing and people are running chaotically through the streets. An emergency of some type is obviously in progress. Hiro sees himself and Ando arguing over the formula and Hiro draws his sword but Future Ando zaps him with a bolt of red electricity and Hiro falls to his death.
The world explodes around him and Hiro travels back to the present to escape his destruction.
Manhattan, New York
Mohinder debates whether to destroy the serum or take it himself. After an internal struggle he injects himself with the serum and goes into shock.
Odessa, Texas – Present Day
Mrs. Petrelli confronts Future Peter and asks him what he’s done with Present Peter. Mrs. Petrelli tells Future Peter that since the formula is out it will destroy everything. Something different happens now. “The future is screwed up!” Present Peter is trapped inside the body of an inmate at Level 5.
Manhattan, New York – Present Day
Upon awakening from the shock of taking the serum Mohinder is mugged and beats off the attackers crushing a gun with his bare hands in the process.
The Mohinder voice over at the end of the episode is the poem “The Second Coming” by William Butler Yeats.
“Turning and turning in the widening gyre The falcon cannot hear the falconer; Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold; Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world, The blood-dimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere The ceremony of innocence is drowned; The best lack all conviction, while the worst Are full of passionate intensity.
Surely some revelation is at hand; Surely the Second Coming is at hand. The Second Coming! Hardly are those words out When a vast image out of Spiritus Mundi Troubles my sight: somewhere in sands of the desert A shape with lion body and the head of a man, A gaze blank and pitiless as the sun, Is moving its slow thighs, while all about it Reel shadows of the indignant desert birds. The darkness drops again; but now I know That twenty centuries of stony sleep Were vexed to nightmare by a rocking cradle, And what rough beast, its hour come round at last, Slouches towards Bethlehem to be born?”
“The Second Coming is at hand!”
“VILLIANS” – CHAPTER TWO “The Butterfly Effect”
Air Date Monday, September 22nd, 2008 8/9c Part One
Costa Verde, California – Present Day
Claire tells her mother that Sylar will never come back because he got what he came for. Claire cuts herself but cannot feel the pain. She tells her mom that when she feels the pain of an injury it is the only time she still feels human.
Unknown Location – A Possible Future
In a flash forward Mrs. Petrelli dreams of the death of many of our Heroes. Hiro is found on the floor in the doorway of a room in disarray with his own sword through his chest (sighting of the symbol on the sword handle.) Matt Parkman sits in a chair with his throat slit. Peter is seen with his head smashed through a window. And Claire is being strangled by an unknown assailant and is then beheaded. Noah Bennett lays dead on the floor, his signature horn-rimmed glasses next to his body.
It would seem that an alliance has been formed. We see Adam, Jessica, Matt Parkman’s dad and the unknown assailant standing in the hall. Sylar comes up behind Mrs. Petrelli, who is facing the alliance, and smiles.
Peter’s Apartment – Present Day
While Peter constructs a map with string that is similar to Chandra Suresh’s map in Manhattan his mother tells him to return from where he came from.
Manhattan, New York – Present Day
Mohinder has found new powers as he is seen hanging upside down from the ceiling and later crawls up the wall Spiderman-like. He consumes mass quantities of chocolate milk (?) and then seduces an unsuspecting but pleased Maya.
Somewhere in Africa – Location Unknown – Present Day
Matt Parkman is surrounded by savannah and without water passes out.
Part Two
Hartsdale, New York - Primatech Research – Present Day
Elle and Bob watch a video of two agents trying to subdue Sylar in California. In the video they shoot Sylar who shimmies with the injury and then blasts them with an unknown power from the palm of his hand.
Elle implores her father to let her stop Sylar.
Tokyo, Japan – Yamagato Industries - Present Day
Hiro has hired a private investigation agency to find the speedster who has stolen the formula. They uncover Daphne Millbrook who lives at 14 Rue Saint-Jacques in Paris, France. Hiro time warps with Ando.
Washington, D.C. – Present Day
Governor Malden and Tracy Strauss (the Niki/Jessica look-a-like) discuss buying Nathan Petrelli and making him a U.S. Senator.
A reporter confronts Tracy in the parking structure and tells her that he knows she was an internet stripper. Tracy denies that it is her.
Paris, France – Present Day (?)
Hiro and Ando discover that Daphne’s apartment is filled with priceless artifacts and art work that has been stolen including the Mona Lisa. They begin searching for the missing half of the formula.
Costa Verde, California – Present Day
Claire, in an attempt to feel more human, videos herself as she stands waiting on the railroad tracks for a train to run her over. At the last moment Future Peter flies in and saves her from being hit by the locomotive. Claire tells Future Peter that Sylar can now heal himself. She begs Future Peter to teach her how to fight Sylar.
Odessa, Texas – Present Day
Tracy Strauss visits Nathan Petrelli who is found praying in his recovery room. Nathan recognizes Tracy as Jessica who again denies that identity. She tells him that Governor Malden is interested in his abilities. As she leaves Linderman enters and tells Nathan that she is not Jessica but Tracy Strauss.
Linderman tells Nathan that it is God’s plan for him to accept Malden’s proposal.
Hartsdale, New York - Primatech Research – Present Day
Elle begs her father, Bob, to allow her to look for Sylar but she finds him dead in his chair with the top of his head buzzed off. Obviously, Sylar is in the building! Elle runs down to Level 5 and releasing Noah Bennett gives him a gun. Sylar throws Elle against the wall and Noah empties the gun into Sylar who falls to the ground. The bullets clink to the ground and Sylar awakens and throws Noah against the wall. As he attempts to buzz off Elle’s head she explodes in energy and Sylar is caught in the wash.
The prisoners kept at Level 5 are release in the electrical storm but Noah drags an unconscious Sylar into a power blocking cell.
Paris, France – Present Day (?)
Hiro and Ando discuss laying a trap for Daphne as they cannot find the missing half of the formula.
Odessa, Texas – Present Day
Future Peter visits Nathan and tells him that he comes from a future where humans with special powers are hunted and placed in concentration camps. Future Peter begs Nathan’s forgiveness (for what isn’t quite clear) and implores him to “make the right choices (again unclear.)
Washington, D.C. – Present Day
Nathan calls Tracy Strauss and takes her up on the offer to become the Junior Senator of New York with one stipulation – she must work on his staff. She agrees and is then accosted once again by the reported. He shows her a video of her and Nathan Petrelli in indecent repose in Las Vegas. Tracy touches the reporter in anger who freezes instantly and then shatters into pieces when he falls.
Hartsdale, New York - Primatech Research – Present Day
At level 5 Sylar is now captured and being fed intravenously on a table in a cell. Mrs. Petrelli declares that the chain of command has fallen upon her and that Elle is no longer needed.
Paris, France – Present Day (?)
Daphne returns to her apartment to find Hiro and Ando ransacking her stolen goods in an attempt to locate the missing half of the formula. Hiro blackmails Daphne with a trade for her favorite sprinting medallion. And, again she escapes with both the formula and the medallion. Hiro, however, has placed a tracking device in the medallion and sees that Daphne has gone to Germany.
Manhattan, New York – Present Day
The side effects of the serum begin to multiply as Mohinder suffers. He has found himself sensitive to light, is highly dehydrated and worse, his skin is peeling from his body!
Somewhere in Africa – Present Day
Matt Parkman awakes, also dehydrated (do I detect a common theme?), in the desert/savannah of Africa to a talking turtle (or is it?). A voice tells him to use a plant to claim water from its roots. A tribesman reveals himself and tells Matt that he must go on a spirit walk. The tribesman knows Matt’s name and tells him that if he is there then the future is not as he painted it!
Odessa, Texas – Present Day
Nathan plays chess with Linderman in his recovery room. When a nurse asks him who he is talking to Linderman declares that Nathan is the only one that can see or hear him. Is Linderman a figment of his imagination? God? The voice from the abyss? Hmm… stay tuned for more!
Costa Verde, California – Present Day
Noah Bennett and Claire are looking at the list of “Villains” that have escaped Level 5 during Elle’s electrical storm.
The escapees include: Knox, a man that can absorb a persons greatest fears and turn them into incredible strength; Flint, with pyrotechnic powers that can throw blue flame. The German, who can control magnetic energy; and Jesse, who is listed as a sound manipulator but Noah tells Claire that she really does not want to know what he can do.
Claire asks her Noah to let her help find Sylar but he insists that she stay in California and that he has enlisted someone to make sure that she does. Claire’s biological mother (manipulator of fire) has been invited to stay.
Odessa, Texas – Present Day
Present Peter is trapped inside the body of Jesse, one of the escapees from Level 5 and tries to warn Nathan. But the escapees have other plans. In the closing scene the “Villains” are in the middle of a car-jacking. The German beats one of the occupants as Flint throws flames on another.
At Primatech Paper, on Level 5, Sylar is visited by Mrs. Petrelli. During a discussion she says that her other sons were disappointments. Sylar tells Mrs. Petrelli, “You are not my mother!” and she replies, “Yes, Gabriel, I am!”
The Alternative Takes Notes:
1. The Butterfly Effect - The Butterfly Effect is a phrase that describes the technical notions of chaos theory. The phrase refers to the idea that a butterfly’s wings might create tiny changes in the atmosphere that may ultimately alter the path of a tornado or delay, accelerate or even prevent the occurrence of a tornado in a certain location. The flapping wing represents a small change in the initial condition of the system, which causes a chain of events leading to large-scale alterations of events.
2. Claire and her injuries - Claire’s attempts to injure herself explained - During “The Butterfly Effect” we find out why Claire has attempted to hurt herself so many times. She declares that when she feels the pain of an injury it is the only time she still feels human. Does this mean that Claire does not want her power? Would she give it up some day to be more human?
3. New “Heroes” or “Villains” - Okay, I admit, that it is a little difficult to decide who is the Hero or the Villain, so I won’t attempt to. However, there were new characters introduced during the two episodes. I list them here without alignments as I’m certain that their roles will fall into place later on in the year. 1. Daphne Millbrook – Speedster – Super fast speed (think the Flash on uppers!) 2. Benjamin Knox – Can absorbs fears and turn them into incredible strength 3. Flint – Pyrotechnics – Throws flames 4. The German – Can control magnetic energy 5. Jesse – Sound Manipulation – Important because he holds the soul of Peter Present. 6. Ando – Electricity? – throws red bolts of electricity? (This may only be a flash forward power and not actual (but I had to list it!) 7. Tracy Strauss – Freeze Ray – Tracy touches a reporter and he turns to ice and then shatters into pieces. 8. African Tribesman – Future painter – Evidently Isaac Mendez wasn’t the only one who could do this! 9. Angela Petrelli – Predictive Dreams (?) (a hunch on my part – still unproven)
4. The Alliance of Villains – During Mrs. Petrelli’s flash forward to a possible future we find that many of our favorite Heroes are in danger of being eliminated. It appears that some of the villains have come together to form a group.
Adam, Hiro’s nemesis from the past, Jessica, Niki’s evil twin, Matt Parkman’s dad, who has similar abilities to Matt, and an unknown African-American Man, powers, for now, not revealed, have formed an alliance. From the scene it is not clear if Sylar and Mrs. Petrelli are also in the alliance but it seems plausible. Mrs. Petrelli could also be in danger but her involvement remains unclear.
5. The formula. Although it is called half the formula one must wonder who has the other half. Also, how did Daphne know that the safe was opened and that Hiro had the formula in hand?
6. The African Tribesman – The painting of the Earth exploding is first seen by Matt Parkman in the desert of Africa. It appears once again on a wall in Manhattan after Mohinder takes the serum. Is the Tribesman channeling a tagger?
7. Possible futures - We’ve now seen multiple possible futures in the show: (1) New York City evaporated in a nuclear explosion (and taking Peter and Nathan with it – BTW – What happened to Nathan’s burns?) (2) Sylar pretending to be Nathan and ruling the country from the White House and Hiro as a terrorist (3) The entire world quarantined after a virus of epic proportions (4) A future where those with power are hunted and held in concentration camps (5) Tokyo destroyed in a holocaust and Hiro and Ando fighting over the formula (6) Many of the known Heroes killed by the Villains (from Mrs. Petrelli’s flash forward dream) I somehow feel like I’m missing some…
Weekly re-cap and observations of the extraordinary T.V. series "Heroes"
