I don't understand it. Somewhere out there, someone at the WB is hopping around in a foot cast because they shot themselves by missing a great opportunity. Sure, I'm sure there's some valid reason as to why they missed it, but I'm not seeing it, so I'm going to keep talking.

Let's look at the players. We've got the WB - a young network, struggling to keep afloat in the world of real TV. They have Angel - a good show, but with only a cult following. Its February - sweeps month. They have a great story line - Angel's soul is purposefully removed so they can talk to Angelus, his dark, evil side, in an episode entitled "Souless." If that wasn't a good enough package to market (which I didn't see them do) it was directed by Sean Astin.

Did you say Sean Astin?
Yes, Sean Astin, one of the most popular people out there right now. What isn't there to love about the fat Hobbit Sam? I expected the credits to 1) do their neat little trailer trick of turning the "Angel" title into "Angelus" and 2) the words "Directed by Sean Astin" to be emblazoned across the screen in flashing, Vegas letters. Neither happened. The moment just passed calmly like any other moment. I'm glad I caught onto it earlier in the day, because I would've probably had hysterics had I seen it for the first time on the screen.

So what's the deal? Did Sean Astin say, "I'll direct your show if you promise not to make a big deal of it?" As hot as he is, it isn't because he's a director. Unless he's embarrassed to be directing a WB show? Then why even use your real name? I would think the WB would be throwing extra money and promises at him for the chance to bring in more viewers and higher ratings by linking Angel and The Lord of the Rings.

Could I notice a difference?
That it was specifically Sean Astin, no. Other than that very fun little clip on the Fellowship of the Rings extended DVD, I've ever seen anything he's directed. I could see that it was a director doing something a little bit different from the norm. From the first fight scene where the camera "jumped" with Connor to the choppiness of switching between characters while they all talked, mirroring the division that Angelus was creating between them... it's a new look to Angel and something I hope future directors learn from.

The actors also did a great job... David Boreanaz as Angelus is always a treat... he's such a good bad-ass! None of the other main characters had ever met Angelus before tonight, except for Cordelia, and they all pulled off the high emotional tension that was required of the episode.

What's left to say?
There's not much else to say. The combination of Hobbit and Vampire works well... and I hope to see more of it. I just wonder if the WB will take advantage next time??