Castle : Snap judgment on Nathan Fillion s new show

While I agree with EW TV critic Ken Tucker that the premiere episode of Nathan Fillion's cop-mystery series Castle was "too-playful-by-half," here are the facts: I am this show's demo. I DVR character-, comedy-, and chemistry-driven procedurals like Bones, Psych, and NCIS. I would probably blush were you to put me in a room with Nathan Fillion. And my schedule is wide open Mondays at 10 p.m. ET. So congratulations, ABC. You got me.

That said, I am hoping that the cutesy quotient was excessively high in the premiere because producers wanted to make sure that we all got that Fillion's Richard Castle -- a famous crime writer who partners with Det. Kate Beckett (Stana Katic) first to solve a series of murders matching those in his books, then because he wants to "research her" for the heroine in his next series of novels -- is unpredictable. He's the kind of man who encourages his 15-year-old daughter to drink champagne so she has stories to tell her children and eats whipped cream from the bottle. He can pick up a dropped handcuff key with his toes, talk himself out of arrests and into search warrants because the mayor and judge are fans, and play poker with (guest stars) James Patterson and Stephen J. Cannell. He enjoys signing women's chests, yet allows his Broadway diva mother, who probably gets more than he does, live with him. I get it. We can now move past the pilot shorthand and give Castle some time to breathe, to not be "on." Fillion's a good enough actor to sustain quiet moments. Let him. (Especially if it spares him from trying to sell a stale comeback about his claims being big when asked if he knows a small claims lawyer. No one's that good.)

The premise of the pilot -- Castle aids in the investigation of a copycat killer -- was predictable but obviously necessary to bring he and Beckett together. To be honest, I couldn't tell you if Fillion and Katic (who I'm semi-ashamed to say I recognized more from The Librarian: The Curse of the Judas Chalice than Quantum of Solace) have great chemistry, or if my mind just filled in the blanks. (It wants to go to there.) What I do know is that I like that Beckett's a fan of his books, yet immune to his charm. I like that he's hot for her and clearly up for the chase. I like that he's raised a daughter (Molly Quinn) who's not going to bring down the show with teen angst. (She turned down the champagne and opted to keep studying at his book release party. She also called him out on where he likes to put his Sharpie). I like that even though Castle can read Beckett (she's a cop because someone she loved got hurt and the person was never caught -- snooze), you know that there's more to his story than meets the eye. (I'm betting that his divorce from his publisher did a number on him, and he's all talk when it comes to the ladies now...)

The fact that I've gone this long without discussing the case is a sign that this series won't actually be about that. But it doesn't mean the unfolding of the mystery wasn't enjoyable. As a crime novelist, Beckett knows how a story should go, what motives could be in play, and when something is wrapped up too swiftly. He knew that their suspect, an obsessed fan, would've matched his murder scenes to the books' exactly, so the slight differences pointed to a frame-up. Only one of the victims -- a social work grad student with a rich, dying father and a jealous, cash-strapped brother -- was the target, the other two were killed to make police think they were looking for a Rick Castle fan. My favorite moment of the investigation was when Castle, who refuses to stay in the car (we get it!), broke free from the brother, who'd captured him as a hostage, and said, "You're gonna put that in your report, right?" That's a line Fillion can sell.

Your turn. Are you wooed by Castle, playing hard to get (how many more eps will you give him?), or calling it quits? How would your relationship with the character change if it wasn't Fillion playing him?

Betty Tue, Mar 17, 2009 at 06:12 PM EST

Love Fillion but only like the show. I hope they give it a chance to get its legs rather than cancel it immediately. Why is everyone so quick to cancel his shows?

Mon, Mar 16, 2009 at 11:51 AM EST

Have to tell you that I absolutely loved the first episode of Castle. Nathan was great as usual. Cant wait for the next episode. Hopefully this series will stay around for a while. Thanks

Jennifer Sun, Mar 15, 2009 at 02:32 PM EST

I liked that Beckett was a fan instead of having her totally oblivious to who Rick is. I'm glad that Nathan has such a great role. Missed him after he left Desperate Housewives.

Jennifer Sun, Mar 15, 2009 at 02:27 PM EST

I liked this show enough to watch more. Nathan was great, one to many times with the eyebrow though. Love his mom and daughter!!! I liked that this show didn't go for the stereotypical stuff like with the mom and daughter, they are such a breath of fresh air and the viewer can see where Rick gets his personality from. Wonder what dad's like. I think they balance hm out. With all the "reality tv" crap on these days it's nice to have another show where the leading lady can kick butt, literally. First Renee on 24, now Beckett. I loved the writers getting together for cards, nice touch having actual writers maybe they can get Stephen King to sit in on one.

Trev Sun, Mar 15, 2009 at 06:13 AM EST

Rarely have I seen such an exquisitely written and executed pilot episode--all the right notes were hit (on key) and it never once dragged. Love the comedy, the interaction between well-rounded characters who play so well off each other. It's so refreshing to see an alpha female on screen who's actually likable for a change, who doesn't equate being a strong woman with being a witch on wheels. Love love LOVE seeing Nathan Fillion back on the telly, he's got amazing comedic chops. The addition of Cannell and Patterson at the poker game was a great touch. We got a great sense of the characters without being drowned in TMI, but still received what we did need to make them instantly sympathetic and likable in an entertaining way. The daughter was clever without being a brat, zaftig Gran was fabulous. The dialogue was witty and snapped along quite nicely. Well done, ABC et. all. Can't wait to see more

Rachel Thu, Mar 12, 2009 at 10:08 PM EST

LOVED it! It was so funny, and the acting was fantastic! Those two have fantastic chemistry, although I'm beginning to think Nathan Fillion has fantastic chemistry with just about everyone.

Cristine Thu, Mar 12, 2009 at 11:29 AM EST

I liked it. I'm a huge "Bones" fan, and I think this will be a nice, maybe slightly lighter version. Love Nathan Fillion, and loved the daughter, by the way. It made me happy to see a teenager realistically portrayed instead of stereotyped as a spoiled, empty filler character.

Dikat Thu, Mar 12, 2009 at 10:59 AM EST

I'm in the same boat as a lot of the others, I would watch anything Nathan Fillion is in. He just makes me smile watching him. I didn't like Bones after watching a few episodes of that, I didn't see chemistry there, and I am a fan of Boreanz from Angel, but I think Katic and Fillion have more than enough chemistry. The pilot was more than entertaining, wasn't thrilled with his mom's character, and I don't know why any detective would wear 3-4 inch heels to a murder scene. Bizarro, but hey, I am in as long as Mr. Fillion is.

Franzeska Thu, Mar 12, 2009 at 10:14 AM EST

Ugh. Scrub that makeup off of the female lead (especially if the script mentions that she doesn't wear any), get her some sensible shoes, tone down the shrillness, give her a sandwich and some self respect, and there just might be some genuine chemistry.

I want to like the straight-laced woman/zany guy thing, but unless the female character is actually strong, it just comes across as sexist. Less khol more kickass, please!

Wed, Mar 11, 2009 at 11:43 PM EST

Watched it because of Nathan Fillion and am glad that I did. I have always like "whodunit" shows and Castle is a light and fun show to watch, compared to others. I will give it at least one season to see how they (the characters)grow.

TV Watcher Wed, Mar 11, 2009 at 09:12 PM EST

I liked the episode...it was better than the reviews preceding it. Ken Tucker is not a Bones fan (or Psych?) so maybe he doesn't like humor with his procedurals. But I like these types of shows. The writing has got to be top-notch though, so we will see. I will definitely watch again.

Julie Wed, Mar 11, 2009 at 05:12 PM EST

Why wasn't the third writer in the poker game credited. Faye Kellerman is so popular, but she didn't speak and wasn't mentioned. Contract issue?

Grace Wed, Mar 11, 2009 at 04:49 PM EST

If Nathan Fillion hadn't been on it, I wouldn't have watched it. Loved the show, watched it again today during lunch.

Nicole Wed, Mar 11, 2009 at 12:11 PM EST

I liked it too, and will most definitely be back next week. I do have to admit that if it wasn't for Nathan Fillion I probably wouldn't have watched, since I don't really watch procedurals in general except Bones. This one has a Bones-esque quality with the humour, etc. that makes me happy. But it's totally all about Nathan. I'll watch as long as he's on it, lol.

Clair Wed, Mar 11, 2009 at 04:59 AM EST

I am beyond wooed and won over. Nathan Fillion is so cute, yes it was too much but it was the pilot and he sold it! A few minutes into the episode I proclaimed "Nathan is the new Jessica Fletcher!" and I meant it as a compliment!

Coyote Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 09:33 PM EST

I enjoyed this show ... and I love Californication. Some similarities but not enough to claim copycat (get it?). And Keir Dullea! Holy Space Odyssey!

Liz1388 Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 09:30 PM EST

Fillion is that rare actor who can make a purely evil villain as fun - BuffyTVS, as a space-cowboy hero - Firefly. I was leery of this new show from the ads, but I am glad I caught the first ep. I really enjoyed it. It IS the playfulness that makes this show different from most. Seems to me that if they serious Castle down too much after this, it will be just another cop and partner crime show. Ironically all the bits you cite with pleasure are the playful ones, not the serious. But I also liked the scene where he psyched Beckett's motives for becoming a cop. Yeah, it was facile, but the two played it with more subtlety that most. I too appreciated the the daughter's character playing against stereotype a lot. Not that happy with Mom (Sullivan). If she's there for the older woman demo, it didn't appeal to me. I kept wishing she had less hot to trot and more Holland Taylor bite. Anyway, this is going on my Tivo season pass list.

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 09:24 PM EST

I loved it - the perfect concoction for a Monday night! I don't want to think too hard about it - just sit down and enjoy. Reminds me of Remington Steele... so far

Jessica S. Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 08:07 PM EST

I'll watch anything that involves Nathan Fillion. That man is gold and I'm hoping this show can rise to the level of his talents. Cute pilot, but I'm hoping for more of a showcase for Captain Tightpants.

Doug Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 07:49 PM EST

Californication & Castle? I would love to hear Bowman's comment on that! Two totally different viewer viewpoints.

Anyway, I loved the show. It was a fresh start from the regular cop shows.

Thanks ABC for putting on something that I can watch. Since you've taken away Boston Legal, 10 o'clock hasn't been too smart.

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 07:41 PM EST

Shame on you, ABC. It's one thing to borrow from another popular character or show, but this one takes the cake.Or the Castle, so to speak.

An author with writers block, check. A womanizer. check. A charming bad boy. check. A teenage daughter who is more mature than the parent. double check. Well, Hello Hank Moody! Could they be any more blatent? I swear, they even stole some of the same lines from Californication. I hope this show dies a quick death. The only part I enjoyed was the poker game, and only because the two old guys were hilarious in their "where's the twist. There needs to be a twist!"lol!

Kvivik Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 07:09 PM EST

It has NOT been CANCELLED!!!!!!
I realize this is ABC, who's execs don't realize that not all of America's TV's are counted in Neilsen ratings and cancels their best shows, but please stop insisting the show is cancelled when you don't have links or sites to back up your claim.

Kvivik Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 06:48 PM EST

OMG!!! I thought I was was just going to biased to love this show because I knew Nathan before he got his role on One Life to Live, but having watched (and rewatched) the pilot, I'm extatic.
It was awesome!!!
I must say that Susan Sullivan was amazingly over the top for her scenes and that was a little jarring, and the guys playing Beckett's fellow officers need to not look so braindead all the time.
The thing that I am most happy about is that this is not going to be a 21st century "Murder, She Wrote". He's not going to fly around the country and stumble onto crimes. He's 'working' by doing research for further books.
Have to say I absolutely LOVED the cameos by James Patterson and Stephen Cannell. Hope they do that again with the poker game in the future.
We'll see if I'm as extatic after 5 episodes as I am over the pilot.

T.Y. Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 05:05 PM EST

I truly only watched (despite the overly stereotypical concept the commercials showed) because Fillion is in it. I never expect anything real from a premiere episode, and even give a series at least three to decide, however the premiere for Castle has already made me excited for next week. The characters were magnificent (some shallow, but look at the entertaining series, arrested development) and as much if not more, i loved his daughters character, and to me its the sub-characters and their relationships with the main characters that keep me coming back week after week!

Grag Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 04:57 PM EST

I haven't seen any news online about cancellation. If the folks who referred to the show as being cancelled have a link to send us to, please say so--otherwise I'm assuming it's still alive.

Janie Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 04:09 PM EST

I think i've seen this show before and it was called Californication. What a rip off Castle is. Californication and Hank Moody are 10 times better then Castle. I'll wait for Californication to start up.

Eric Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 03:59 PM EST

I thought it was great and I'm totally hooked. I'm not that in to procedural shows and my fiancee had some issues with the cop characters, including the female lead, being stereotyped but Fillion was hilarious as usual and I thought there was some great banter.
I'll be back next week.

James Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 03:43 PM EST

Great show... I recently discovered 'Firefly' on the net and really enjoyed Fillion's quirky style. He can deliver a line better than most. Hopefully this show will be there for awhile - it's hard to find light hearted shows anymore that don't just annoy you!

ReasonsWhy Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 03:29 PM EST

I tuned in because I love Nathan Fillion (please see Firefly and Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog for numerous reasons why), and I stayed tuned in because of him, too. I liked Stana Katic, but I don't love her yet.

It's a bit too much Bones for me, at the moment. They don't get along at first; uptight girl, goofy guy - something I felt like the pilot tried to remind us too frequently.

Basically, I'm watching because I like the leads, but if the writing doesn't improve (it wasn't awful, just not as sharp as I'd like), then I don't know how long Fillion and Katic can carry the show.

Count me in for a few more episodes, at the very least.

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 02:38 PM EST

Castle was great! The first few minutes almost deterred me, but then the story really clicked. This definitely has more of a Joss Whedon feel than the current Joss project, "Dollhouse."

Mike Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 02:19 PM EST

Fillion is fantastic here. Few actors have his combination of gravitas and comedic chops and I'm glad he's back in a role that capitalizes on that.

Castle is fun and feels like it has plenty of potential to fill a serious gap in primetime fare (laugh-out-loud funny character driven entertainment).

I watched with a group of folks and everyone enjoyed it - we rarely agree on anything! I hope the numbers, and the powers that be, let this one stick around for a while.

Yolanda Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 02:09 PM EST

I liked the show, although I wasn't familiar with the female lead. I hope it last, but knowing ABC it won't. Fillion is adorable.

Lauren Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 02:07 PM EST

Liked it a lot. Not sure how much was the show and how much was the awesomeness of Nathan Fillion, but still. I liked all of the characters overall, although the daughter seemed a little boring. Loved Castle's mom.

I'm curious how the plot will go from here, with him just tagging along, but I'll stick around to find out.

CdrIvanova Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 02:04 PM EST

I haven't watched the episode yet (it's on my DVR), but THANK YOU for telling me that Stana Katic was on The Librarian! I could NOT figure out where I'd seen her before and I haven't seen Quantum of Solace. So, don't be ashamed to say you watched The Librarian, Mandi. I watched all 3 movies and tune them in every time TNT repeats them. :-)

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 01:57 PM EST

it's about TIME they came out with a show based more on comedy than anything else. we sure didnt need another 'cop show'. we need laughs in this day and age, and this show totally provides them. and of course it doesnt hurt that Fillion's headlining it! well done!

DCM Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 01:56 PM EST

I loved the pilot, like the majority here, I'm also a huge Fillion fan (right from Buffy to the canceled-too-soon Drive). Hopefully it doesn't go the way of Life on Mars or Dirty Sexy Money.
For those who missed the pilot, there's a re-run on Saturday night.

DCM Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 01:55 PM EST

I loved the pilot, like the majority here, I'm also a huge Fillion fan (right from Buffy to the canceled-too-soon Drive). Hopefully it doesn't go the way of Life on Mars or Dirty Sexy Money.
For those who missed the pilot, there's a re-run on Saturday night.

Kai Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 01:35 PM EST

This show was great.

It's been being advertised for a while and I kept counting down the days.

The episode was much better then I expected and was happy with all the humor. I don't have a show that makes me laugh that much not even DH, GA, or Bones.

And to everyone saying this show is like Bones, I don't see it. I don't think they are alike.

I'm sticking around for this one as long as they are airing it. :)

NF and SK are fantastic together!

Big D Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 01:31 PM EST

Castle felt a little lightweight, but I like Nathan Fillion and I like the central conceit of the show, so I'll keep watching for now. I though having James Patterson and Stephen J. Cannell on as themselves was a nice touch. It is a lightweight Mentalist. If you like Mentalist you may like this too. One difference, the cast outside of the 2 leads and Fillion's daughter isn't nearly as good as Mentalist's cast.

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 01:29 PM EST

I love Nathan Fillion, which is enough to hold my attention for now. The show has potential-hopefully it will mature quickly. Did I mention I adore Nathan?

Kat Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 01:21 PM EST

I love Nathan Fillion. And I will watch anything he is in. Thank goodness this show turned out to be good. I missed his charm.

NoRez Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 01:06 PM EST

It was a pleasant way to spend an hour, and considering much of what's on 'regular' tv, that's saying a lot. Fillion's fantastic and here's hoping this is the show to make him a real superstar (I'm not quite sure it is, but it was entertaining nonetheless.)

M. Edison Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 12:51 PM EST

Yeah, I'll be sticking around for this one. I've been looking for a show like this to replace Bones (ditched as the lead just grew more annoying and the writing of the Zack storyline was just abysmal) and this one couldn't fit the bill any better. It did have it's rough edges, but for a pilot, you expect that. I'm hoping it smooths out over the next few episodes. Plus a series where the fantastic female characters outnumber the male?

There's no way I'm passing up on that.

Elliot Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 12:51 PM EST

I loved it! Bright, funny, sexy, without the sturm und drang that tv seems to have turned into today. (I love Fringe but really wish they would let Peter and Olivia have this much energy and interaction.) This is a keeper.

Coffman Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 12:45 PM EST

A breath of fresh air and those who say there was no electricity between the lead players better check their own pulse. Please, ABC, keep Castle around for a very long time.

I'm in Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 12:44 PM EST

Not many actors could pull off the role, but Fillion definitely has a knack for it. Our viewing group was 2 guys, 2 girls, and we all liked it. I can barely remember Moonlighting, but I have hopes this will follow suit - light, entertaining, good chemistry and just enough story to keep it together. The mom and daughter seemed to be interesting supporting characters, too. Don't get me wrong - this doesn't look like profound drama or like it's going to lend insightful views into the nature of humanity. But it looks fun, the characters are likable (okay, Fillion is flat-out adorable), and having made my living as a writer in the past, I adore the fantasy of a novelist living in a penthouse and still being able to break out of handcuffs with his feet. We all live that way.

Fun fantasy. All four of us intend to get together and watch next week. Premieres aren't usually the best, but I'll watch it at least one season even if this was as good as it gets.

Coffman Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 12:44 PM EST

A breath of fresh air and those who say there was no electricity between the lead players better check their own pulse. Please, ABC, keep Castle around for a very long time.

DC Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 12:40 PM EST

Love Nathan Fillion and thought his charm and charisma fit the bill this time. As a suspense novel reader myself, I was filling in the gaps when they were, but it did nothing to take away from my enjoyment of the show. It reminded me of the early/classic Moonlighting episodes before they got together.

Hope they expand the characters more, but will definitely be along for the ride!

Lesley Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 12:32 PM EST

I liked it. FINALLY, a lead who is a WRITER!!!! Yay! Plus, I like the added dimension to Nathan Fillion's character of being a dad to a teen girl and living with his mom. Made him a little less typical of a character. Plus, loved Steve Cannel and James Patterson doing cameos during the poker game. Nice work. The chemistry seems good. I'll watch it again - but it's a tough time slot, since I also really like Medium.

Lisa Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 12:29 PM EST

Usually hate new shows.....but was flooded with commercials featuring Nathan Fillion, who I never really thought about before....until now...I think I have a CRUSH! That boy is SEXY! Have already set my dvr for monday nights. Love the light, campy, clever banter. Don't like crime dramas but this one has humor and I love a good laugh. Found myself wanting to trade places with Det. Beckett.

Mike Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 12:24 PM EST

liked Nathan Fillion's character, wasn't thrilled with the detecitive. Totally disappointed that as soon as the killer is someone we had never heard of until that moment and then it was very obviously him and no surprise, it was him. Hopefully the mystery will improve, but not a bad start. I also liked the daughter, but not the mom. She was over the top.

DanOregon Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 12:11 PM EST

It's like a mash-up of Dirty Sexy Money and Women's Murder Club. A passable hour, but don't know if it will be a breakout. And despite being surrounded by women in his life, I bet that Castle has been tagged with the "can't write female characters" by the critics.

Chris Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 12:10 PM EST

"Slight Hint" to Californication..? I thought they dropped a Hank Moody clone into an insert-crime-procedural-here clone, and hoped no one would notice. Maybe the sum will be more than its parts, prolly too early to tell. But the premise feels cobbled together from other popular-right-now archetypes.

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 12:07 PM EST

Fillion could rock anything and make it look great and he's done that with Castle.
The show's lines were too obvious and some scenes a little too out of the realm of logic but I guess if I suspend my disbelief and go with a cute new show it will entertain and like others I don't have anything going on in that slot on mon.
Beckett it the most uncomfortable woman around men I've ever seen for a cop. She needs a spa or a man. Or both.
Geez.

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 12:00 PM EST

I loved Fillion's character in Firefly, because he played it edgy, cool, funny and enigmatic. It was jolting to see him play a character that is so two-dimensional. But by the same token, David Boreanaz was way more interesting as Angel than he is in Bones. Wish Joss Whedon had a hand in this show. (and yes, I do know that both Angel and Firefly were canceled due to low ratings.)

LadyK Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 11:53 AM EST

Watched it because of Nathan Fillion. Will continue to watch it because of Nathan Fillion despite what I think of the lead actress (which isn't much). As charismatic as Nathan Fillion is, you would think there would have been a natural snap, crackle, and pop between him and Stana Katic's Beckett. Didn't see it, wasn't feeling it, doesn't matter. I will tune in every week as long as he is on the air with the twinkle in his eye and that grin on his face.

Jimmy Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 11:50 AM EST

I'm hoping for something more here. Right now this is little more than Murder She Wrote with a guy in the lead instead of Angela Landsbury. I like Fillion enough that I'll tune in again -- I mean, the guy deserves a successful show after so many attempts and failures, but I'm not sure Castle will do it for him.

Wholelotta Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 11:43 AM EST

Writers...please.
Fillion totally sold what he had to work with.
Will watch again but the writing has to get better.

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 11:35 AM EST

i loved it. nathan fillion did an amazing job. i hope abc doesnt do their normal and axe the shows i start watching and leave all the stupid ones on.

Doris Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 11:32 AM EST

I liked the show and I will continue to TiVo and watch it (we go to bed at 10 and rise at 4). I agree that the other cops don't make much of an impression, but I really like Susan Sullivan (who I thought was very funny on Dharma & Greg). So that's why Dr. Adam Mayfair left Wisteria Terrace!

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 11:29 AM EST

I loved it! I am a sucker for a good crime drama (CSI, L&O, Criminal Minds, etc.) but was surprised by the light-hearted feel and the comedy. I laughed out loud multiple times and never felt the urge to stray on a commercial. I'll stick with it, there's nothing better on at 10pm anyway.

MereP Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 11:24 AM EST

LOVED THIS SHOW!!!! It sucked me in and I will be watching in the coming weeks. I hope ABC decides to keep it on the air!

Laura K. Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 11:24 AM EST

Didn't watch it. The first time I saw it advertised, I thought, "oh, that sounds like fun." But the more they pushed it on me, the more I thought, "This sounds like Bones, only not as good." I'll stick to Bones, thanks.

Mark Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 11:22 AM EST

I found the show entertaining. Was it the best written show? No. But in times like these I feel "Castle" was entertaining as in it kept my attention span the whole time. There was humor and "Ah HA!" moments that were played well by the actors. It was familiar like many have said, but it was still interesting. I like the possibilities and I am bored with CSI:Miami at this point so Castle it is on Monday nights.

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 11:06 AM EST

I love it and I love Nathan Fillion. I will definitely watch this show, I am so glad to see him in this kind of role. They were both really good to watch together.

Jim Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 11:01 AM EST

It was a little Moonlighting. He was smug and the chemistry was iffy. But, it's not a reality/game show or a CSI gore fest. So I'm there. Until ABC cancels it: Eli Stone, Dirty Sexy Money, Pushing Daisies, Life on Mars.

Vicky Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:58 AM EST

Whoops. I forgot to watch it. Although, Fillion was the only reason I would have tuned in. The previews made the show look kind of blah. I'll catch it online I guess. I just think the premise is silly. Research for a new character? At least on Bones, Brennen helps Booth solve crimes because of her extensive knowledge. AND she's an author. Haha! Still, it's Fillion. I can't resist. Actually, the only reason I watched Bones in the first place was because of Boreanaz.

Michele Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:56 AM EST

I liked it! The funny commercials for it all last week sparked my interest and I even changed my viewing schedule (to watch Heroes on the earlier time-shifting broadcast) just so I could catch Castle. It was entertaining, Fillion is good as a bumbling "sidekick" to the cop. I'd give it the first season to see how much more they can do with the storylines and characters!

Dee Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:54 AM EST

Did anyone else see the slight hint to David Duchovney's (albeit sans profanity) character in Californication? Even down to the daughter being a little more adult than dad...Loved it!

Sara Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:53 AM EST

I have a huge fangirl crush on Nathan Fillion, so of course I was going to watch this show. And I really did love Nate's performance - it was charming and awesome. Less a fan of Stana - I felt she was trying realllllllly hard to be the "I'm the no-nonsense cop who doesn't have patience for silly but handsome authors". We get it, you're supposed to be opposites who attract - stop trying to sell it. So I guess whether I keep watching is based on how genuine the characters turn out to be (I do love the daughter/mom angle)

Chappel Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:53 AM EST

Castle is the most derivative show I've ever seen. During every scene I had the feeling I'd seen it all before and usually done better. I'll catch the next few episodes to see if it can develop some kind of individual identity, or at least seem like it wasn't written by someone rewriting "the Mentalist" or any one of a dozen or more similar shows it appears to be channeling.

Tina Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:47 AM EST

I didn't want to like it as it seemed to formula for my liking, and I don't typically watch network tv.

I HAD to watch it because it's important to support the local boy and former university classmate. Nathan has always been talented and I've been waiting for him to get really really famous because he deserves it (and he's a class act).

I was pleasantly surprised by the show, and I like the basic characters and think they can do a lot with the supporting cast (I just LOVED the mother and the kid). I think the chemistry between the two of them is fantastic, and word out there is that it just gets better. Also, Nathan does have the ability to bring depth to the role, but of course pilots are always somewhat bombastic, so I would expect some amazing character development to come (and some pretty good acting).
I think FINALLY Nathan has found the vehicle he deserves and I look forward to watching this show in the weeks to come.

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:42 AM EST

It was cutely entertaining, although, having worked in publishing my entire life, I snickered at sexy blonde bombshell playing his editor/publisher/ex-wife. She didn't look like any book editor I've ever met!

The poker scene was fun. Maybe he should play poker with a different bestselling mystery writer every week. Patricia Cornwall? Jonathan Kellerman?

Nerwen Aldarion Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:41 AM EST

I think the best part about this show was how familiar these situations were and how it was nice to see a character react the way a normal person would. For instance, when Castle dropped the handcuff key, he muttered "oops" tried to reach for it and came up with the same solution most of us would...he took off his shoe and grabbed it with his toes!!!!! In any other crime drama he would have stretched with his hand or dragged it with a stick, not for this one, they used the familiar response of feet. How many of us have dropped something and rather then bend over and pick it up we grab it with out toes???? That part had me rolling on the floor!!!!!

The chemistry between Fillion and Static was perfect, it wasn't forced but came naturally like when she whispered in his ear "you have no idea" I was jumping up and down with excitement. The point of the matter is this drama is not a drama, it is a comedy and is pure entertainment. Bottom line the show was entertaining.

Bravo

Kari Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:30 AM EST

I'd watch this show just for Nathan Fillion alone! I enjoyed it and had a few chuckles along the way. I like seeing 'smart and sexy' on the male character!

Sue Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:20 AM EST

Nathan Fillion is the reason I watch this show. If he were not a part of it, I doubt I would have picked it up. I have read that the second episode does away with some of the exposition/explanation necessary in any pilot and is much better for it. Go Nathan!!

GS Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:20 AM EST

I LOVED IT! Just told my husband about it this morning. I guess I just watch tv to watch it and don't read too much into everything. It was a little hectic but so funny. I think Castle and Beckett have great chemistry but she needs to chill big time. Best line of the night was James Patterson saying you don't see me putting a bullet in Alex Crosses head, do you. I laughed out loud at that. I hope ABC gives it a chance. I'm adding it to my DVR to make sure I don't miss it!

Nerwen Aldarion Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:19 AM EST

Like most shows the pilot was a little rough, a little too much going on and at some point obviously unrealistic. That being said I probably missed half the episode because I was laughing so hard. It was great, I've always loved Nathan Fillion and I disagree with the reviewer, the chemestry between him and Stana Katic was electrifying. I was absolutely floored, I'm watching next week and for as long as the jokes keep me giggling I'll probably stay loyal.

Michelle Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:09 AM EST

I really liked it. I'm a HUGE Fillion fan, so I was watching no matter what. But it was pretty good. I really enjoyed the poker game and Castle's relationship with his family. And Mandi, don't feel bad, I recognized Stana from the Librarian too!

DW Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:07 AM EST

I'm glad all my friends and I decided to ignore Ken Tucker's off the mark review, because this episode was great.

Elizabeth Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:07 AM EST

Yep Mandi, that block is open on my Monday evenings, so I'll tune in. I don't mind that there wasn't much chemistry, it will be fun to watch Castle chase Beckett while she puts him off, or she fights off a growing attraction to him.

Sue Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:01 AM EST

I will definitely keep watching, unless the writing gets too sloppy. Thought both Fillion and Katic played well off each other. It doesn't have to be Bones to be a success, it just has to be smart and entertaining. Last night's episode showed good possibility of both.

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:01 AM EST

I liked it. And I agree with you, that there's more than meets the eye. Let's just hope they allow the series to blossom and take advantage of Fillion's talent. I fit the demo as well for the exact same reasons you do :)

Meg Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:00 AM EST

If it wasn't Fillion playing the part I wouldn't have tuned in. I thought immediately, Murder She Wrote, when I heard the premise. I was slightly disappointed in the episode, I agree with everything you wrote here, but like you I will continue to tune in. I try to give every new show I'm interested in a season of growing pains. I hope the characters banter slows down a bit (what is this Gilmore Girls?) and I hope the mysteries deepen more.

Mike Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:00 AM EST

My wife and I LOVED the first episode. Which, knowing it's a Nathan Fillion show, means it will probably get canceled after the first 4 or 5 episodes. But we will continue to have hope. Yes, they crammed a lot down our throats in the pilot, but no other actor could deliver the lines, smug over confident attitude, and charm any better than Fillion did. After just one episode... we're definitely hooked. Can't wait for next week's new episode. I'll be e-mailing ABC to let them know how much we enjoyed this show. We also encourage anyone else who liked it to do the same. Maybe then we can get a full season plus more.

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 10:00 AM EST

It should be bring him and Beckett together. Not bring he and Beckett together. National publication. Basic grammar.

McM Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 09:54 AM EST

Loved it! Fillion can do no wrong. He may be smug, but there's always a twinkle in his eye that keeps it inoffensive. My favorite aspect of the show was Castle's relationships with his daughter and mother, and my favorite part was him and his daughter jabbing at each other while he pushes/drags her down the hallway in her stockinged feet. Refreshingly natural. I'll be back for more, for sure.

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 09:50 AM EST

I liked it. It was entertaining and I love Nathan Fillion. I'm hoping also the develop a supporting cast. Part of the charm of Bones is the cast around Brennan and Booth. I didn't find Beckett's fellow detectives all the interesting last night.

JMC Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 09:44 AM EST

I liked it and refuse to apologize. Fillion was great, daughter was pretty good, loved the author cameos. Most pilots aren't as good as the rest of the series. I hated Bones after the pilot but gave it a chance.

Tom Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 09:41 AM EST

I almost didn't watch after the deluge of ads ABC has been airing for it - I knew all the punchlines by heart already - but I got sucked in and must say I enjoyed it. Entertaining and light.

BoriJ Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 09:18 AM EST

One correction first: When your wrote, As a crime novelist, Beckett knows how a story should go, what motives could be in play, and when something is wrapped up too swiftly, I think you meant Castle. Beckett's the detective.

I liked the pilot episode fine, although I have to agree with camicar, Castle was a little bit too smug in some bits of the episode. But if there's one actor out there who can play with that balance, it's him. I'm a huge Fillion fan and would watch him watching himself on TV, so I'll stick around. My only concern is that I did not feel much of a chemistry between Beckett and Castle, not like you felt it with Booth and Brennan or Tony and Ziva. Theirs was evident from their very first scene together.

AmyK Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 09:17 AM EST

I've loved Nathan since he was Joey on One Life to Live. I watched the show last night, liked it enough to keep watching. It has a Bones vibe to it although I admit it is not near as good as Bones but I'll give it time.

Katherine Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 09:17 AM EST

I'll definitely watch again! I do hope that they tone it down with Castle's wackiness and let Kate relax just a bit, though.

Michelle Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 09:16 AM EST

I liked the show, but agree that they need to tone down the smug factor slightly. I would like to see this work, being a Nathan Fillion fan from when he was on One Life to Live and Two Guys & a Girl. I just hope this doesn't become too "Moonlighting" where it becomes about them hooking up. I like that he doesn't affect her...or if he does, she doesn't show it. I'm willing to give it a chance. Hopefully ABC will too (like they didn't with Eli Stone.)

Katherine Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 09:16 AM EST

I'll definitely watch again! I do hope that they tone it down with Castle's wackiness and let Kate relax just a bit, though.

Amy Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 09:03 AM EST

I decided the previews were more fun than the actual show. It was REALLY dragging at the halfway mark to the point I had to check my clock to see if it was wrapping up. Unfortunately this one doesn't make the cut for me.

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 08:56 AM EST

If it wasn't Fillion starring, I'd have never heard of it, never watch it, never care about it, and refuse to discuss it. But that's the power of him- he'll draw me into an unusual show in an unusual timeslot to be watching ABC. (I don't watch any ABC.)

Kate Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 08:56 AM EST

It was a bit much for an episode, but I love Fillion and that whole dramedy procedural genre. Especially considering that it was the pilot I was fairly entertained and I'm willing to give it a few more weeks. Besides what else am I going to watch at 10pm on a monday?

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 08:54 AM EST

I liked it, but I'm a huge Fillion fan. It was cutesy and not too serious, but the actors are all charming, the detective's hot, and his daughter's a revelation-a serious, non-angsty kid. I'll keep watching this show just to give Fillion a hit. He deserves it, after FireFly and Drive. But I suspect I'll start to like this show the more I watch it. Better than my expectations by far- I thought I'd have to suffer through it, but found myself enjoying it. We'll see where it goes from here.

Joline Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 08:46 AM EST

Ladies all like to join _____MillionaireLoving. C O M_____. I really do not know why? Just cuz many wealthy men and celebrities there? or the men there are all handsome?

Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 08:45 AM EST

I like the actors and think they have great chemistry. What will turn me off of the show is if they amp up the smug factor on the Fillion character even the tiniest bit-- he's already dangerously close to being slap-worthy smug for me.

Carine Tue, Mar 10, 2009 at 08:37 AM EST

I watched it and though I like fillion nd was happy to see him back on the screen, the show kinda annoyed me. I thought it was too obvious, too pushy and it did sound like captain hammer from time to time. I love "Life" and I really prefer Lewis' character to Fillion's. Something about Castle is just not refined enough. Maybe it'll get better. Let's hope so.

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