Subject: Veronica Mars - Pilot (1x01)

Observers: John Pavlich, William Bibbiani

Record Date: June 10, 2013, 11:57 PM

Plot Summary: A high school outcast uses her intellect and resources to investigate the murder of her best friend, while also solving local, petty crimes involving her friends and classmates.

Note: In celebration of the upcoming Veronica Mars Movie, I decided to provide commentaries for every episode of the television series, starting once again with the Extended Pilot. This time, I've asked Crave Online's film channel editor (and co-host of The B-Movies Podcast), William Bibbiani to join me (check out some of his past appearances on the podcast here). We talk about the modern noir aesthetic, the use of a flashback within a flashback, voice-over narration and tackling dark subject matter within the limitations of network TV. Remember to listen for the preemptive countdown before starting the episode on your DVD, and please support the podcast by clicking on the "Donate" button at the top of the homepage.

Buy: Veronica Mars on DVD at Amazon.com!

In "Credit Where Credit's Due", the second episode from season one of Veronica Mars, Weevil's Grandmother is arrested for credit card fraud. Eli confesses to the crime in order to get her out, but Veronica has a sneaking suspicion that both members of the Navarro family are innocent. Could it all have something to do with Logan's new girlfriend and one of Weevil's biker boys? A few grand in stolen money says it just might. Please join me as I discuss school dress codes, the beauty of shooting by firelight, red herrings and the infamy of Paris Hilton.

Remember to listen for my preemptive countdown before starting the episode on your DVD. 

Veronica Mars is and was not only a smart and satisfying teen drama, but also an outstanding, contemporary murder/mystery. From creator Rob Thomas, the show dealt with the seedy underbelly of Neptune High School and its wealthy inhabitants. While also embracing its hard-boiled detective roots, Veronica Mars also defied convention by following the crime-solving exploits of the plucky, young female sidekick (delightfully played by Kristen Bell), giving the proceedings a fresh, new perspective.

Please join me as I take a look at the very first episode, discussing "Pilot-itus", style versus substance and mystery shows of the past. This is just the beginning. Similar to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, I will be making my way through every episode of the entire series' three seasons.

Remember to listen for the preemptive countdown before starting the episode on your DVD.