Castle

Airing: Monday, 10pm, ABC

Castle is a show about a big-name mystery writer (Richard Castle) who, while suffering from writer’s block, uses his friendship with the mayor to tag along with the local police department on murder investigations. There is contempt expressed by the main detective he follows for several reasons: she was forced to allow his intrusions, he doesn’t follow any of her directions, and he usually winds up being instrumental in solving the cases.

Castle is now in its second season, with Nathan Fillion and Stana Katic continuing to give excellent performances every week. There is a great sexual chemistry between the two leads, and the tension between them is palpable. The supporting actors round out the cast well, and add to the humor aspect of the show.

I have been a fan of Nathan Fillion for years, back from the Two Guys and a Girl days (also starring another of my favorites, Ryan Reynolds). So I was automatically tuning in to see his new show. But I went in expecting it not to last long, considering many of his series failed early. I have been happily surprised that it has already lasted this long and shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon. He plays the part of an egocentric and famous writer to perfection, yet shows that his character is also intelligent not matter how silly he is being.

I have seen Ms. Katic in other vehicles, namely the first season of Heroes. Her character, Beckett, is the perfect antithesis to Castle and most other people around her. She is a strong enough woman to stand up to him, yet also listens to suggestions when it comes to her analyses.

The supporting characters add depth and interest to the show. I love seeing Castle at home with his mother and daughter, especially seeing him being a single parent of a teenage girl. The mother has some of the best lines in the show. The daughter has spot-on facial expressions and can put her dad in his place.

Even if you never watch another episode of this show, I highly recommend watching this season's Halloween episode. It was funny and unique, and also a huge blast from the past for Joss Whedon fans.

Obviously, I can go on and on about this show, but I'll stop here. Although there have been many cop shows before this, none have had the humor this one has. It is a dramedy, leaning more toward the comedy than true drama. Watch this, and see how great it is.

10 words or less: I need to get my hands on Castle's book...