FOR THE WEEK OF MARCH 1, 2011

Cindy D.

Should I be the fan of the week?

I really can't answer that. I will say, however, that I am certainly a fan. I work in theatre (as a costume designer and technician, and also as a writer), and find myself saying more and more frequently, "All my favorite shows are on USA". White Collar is wonderfully written, with excellent, full-bodied characters and intricate, exciting storylines that manage to arc through a season without becoming a soap opera. The contrast between Peter Burke and Neal Caffrey is intelligent and believable in the universe created here - and the continuing trend of Peter embracing the less than legal way of doing things just as Neal is realizing the security of having legal, noble partners backing him up - is delightful to watch. Again, nothing is pushed, but is unfolding in a natural, very enjoyable way. I look forward to learning more about Neal and Peter's early lives, and what drew them to their chosen career paths.

The female characters on this show are particularly well-written. How terrific to have a married couple who are independent, intelligent, involved, and still in love with each other. I would be much less taken with the show if Peter and Elizabeth weren't such a realistic, working couple who understand each other and work with each other in such a cooperative, loving way. The way Elizabeth can practically see what is coming next for her husband, and, with equal ease, step up to assist him or step out of the way, is a refreshing take on the partnership of marriage. Too many shows make the partnership of marriage absurdly awkward. If Elizabeth didn't understand his work, they wouldn't still be married.

Diana is equally inspired. A hard-working, gorgeous, intelligent, exotic female who happens to have a girlfriend... brilliant. We get to see this woman work, and never have to worry about any invented sexual tension between her and Neal. It gives a totally different flavor to what could have become rather cliched. It seems that all the female characters who appear in the series are treated with equal, thoughtful consideration. I like it.

Every Tuesday I have to go to my mom's for dinner... I leave her place around nine to get home in time to change, pour a glass of wine and settle in for a most relaxing, entertaining show. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate the good humor, the intelligence, and the buddy relationship which is becoming more and more solid.

The only con I can think of at the moment? The fact that while trying to branch out as a writer in the commercial market, I still enjoy writing fan fiction - and have written a few pieces for White Collar. The con? I use a pen name... so if you happen to check a fanfic site and see a Miran Anders... well, I hope you enjoy it.

Thank you for a truly delightful show.

My best to you all,

Cindy D.

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