Burn Notice, Season 3 – CliqueClack Preview

by Scott Tunstall

burn-notice-season-3

Who says summer television stinks? Burn Notice returns this Thursday at 9pm, and it’s turning up the heat on season three. I got great satisfaction at being able to watch the first three episodes of my favorite show (it’s surpassed Lost) and provide my fellow “Burn” buddies a sneak peek into Michael Westen’s life after his dive from a helicopter at the conclusion of season two back in March.

I’d love to give away all the dirt, but it’s much more enjoyable to dangle a carrot or two. I was pleased that the new season picks up immediately after Michael’s impromptu ocean swim. He literally walks onto the beach and into a brand new heap of trouble. Now that his name has been released to law enforcement agencies and international organizations, Mikey suddenly has a lot more admirers. And by admirers, I mean people who want to arrest him, sell him out, or kill him. Never a dull moment in the Burn Notice universe, which is why the show kicks major ass.

The usual crew of Sam, Fi, Madeline and Nate all return, as do old pals Barry the money launderer, and Brennen the jilted arms dealer, who is looking for payback. In addition, a determined Miami detective — played by the gorgeous Moon Bloodgood (Terminator Salvation) — named Paxton is eager to bring down our number one spy. She and Mike share some of that “I hate you, but I still want to bang you” chemistry; I anticipate plenty of fireworks in the future.

Sam has a new gal, a bevy of fresh one-liners, but still a thirst for free meals and all things alcohol. Madeline appears to have accepted Mikey’s wayward ways, although begrudgingly. Fi is ready and willing to build a nice South Florida nest with Michael. Only problem is Mike wants to reclaim his spy license instead. Will these two kids ever find happiness together? Perhaps in the series finale.

The Westen narration continues to offer loads of insight and humor. “It’s easier to dodge questions than bullets,” is a beauty from episode one. What about all the clever spy tricks and gear, you ask? Don’t fret, Burn buddies. There are more than enough to make MacGyver jealous. Ever see a “water saw” in action? It’s very impressive. As are other covert techniques employed by the spy guys.

I noticed a couple of recurring themes, which I suspect are the groundwork for the season three narrative. First, the solidarity between Mike, Sam, Fi, Madeline and Nate is stronger. They’ve always had each others’ backs, but I think they all realize that sticking together is their best option. Going rogue won’t fly anymore. Second, the dark, edgy plots that surfaced briefly in season two are back. Mike has always walked a tightrope; however, the rope is much thinner and not nearly as taut.

After three chapters, things are heading in an interesting direction. The “organization” that burned Mike still lurks, and a host of obstacles and enemies are afoot. Sixteen episodes are on tap for season three. Nice. And don’t forget, USA has moved the airtime from 10pm to 9pm on Thursday nights. Good news for me; I can start penning my reviews an hour earlier. Yay!

Burn Notice succeeds because it has yet to veer off its original course. Michael Westen’s spy acumen is the real star of the series. I never get tired of watching him and his gang foil a lesser opponent (as long as it makes sense). It might seem like he has all the answers, but he really doesn’t. He’s making it up as he goes and that’s why he’s so damn cool. Will he get his old gig back? Or will he bite the bullet and settle down with the lovely Fiona? I have no idea, but I can’t wait to find out.