Robin Hood Season 3 Viewing Spree ~Part 4: The Finale

When the 3rd season of Robin Hood came to the US on DVD last month,

I excitedly watched all the episodes (although a few made me wince) and have posted my
thoughts on each ~some random, some not. You can read the previous "viewing spree" tid-bits HERE. 

I forgot to do a review of  the finale,
episodes 12 and 13, so let's do it, people!
Warning: long post.

"Something Worth Fighting For, Part 1"

I hate to say it, but in general, I thought this episode was lame. *hides*

However, my favorite parts were seeing Gisborne's hair full of limestone...

(I don't know why but this cracked me up)

and the looks on everyone's faces when Vasey reappears.

Oh crap!!!

"Something Worth Fighting For, Part 2"

This was the better of the sister episodes, even if there were some things I didn't like...

such as Allan's death.

WHAT THE HECK!?!

For me, this was the worst thing about Season 3! 
I'm willing to overlook Kate's whiney voice and the mangey lion...

I figured Robin and Gisborne would die since Jonas and Richard weren't returning for a 4th season...

but killing off Allan?  This took me by complete surprise the first time I watched this episode.
It left me thinking, "What was the point of that?" much like when Marian was killed.  I felt robbed.

If the writers insisted on Allan's death, why couldn't they have created a more heroic, dramatic scene?
(Such as Allan jumping in front of an arrow to save Robin or one of the gang.)
Instead, we get poor Allan running through the forest, desperate to get word to Robin about
Vasey's return, only to get shot in the back and dumped at the castle.  LAME!

Instead of focusing on this sad ending,
let's take a second to remember the happier Allan moments, or at least my favorite,

when he became Gisborne's sidekick, following him around and wearing black.
(I think he looks great in black!  And do I detect a bit of guyliner?)

"I'm not being funny or anything..."

Okay, back to the review!

Rather than point out more negatives, let's focus on the positives of this episode:

I liked seeing the team work between Gizzy and the gang.

I liked that Archer stopped being a schmuck and came to the rescue.

I loved it when Gisborne raised his sword in response to Robin's inspirational speech.

Robin's hair looked like it was on fire... haha!

I liked seeing these brothers together.

I even liked Gisborne's death scene.

I'm glad that it was a heroic ending.  This was as close as I got to a group hug. :)

It was sweet when Gisborne looked at Archer and said, "Brother."

His farewell speech to Robin was great.

"I lived in shame, but because of you I die proud... and free."  *tear*

Robin's death scene was milked for all it was worth, being drawn out.

Did this shot remind anyone else of the movie "Gladiator?"

Of course, Robin's slow death gave him the opportunity to get a good last look at
Sherwood Forest and say his emotional good-byes.

As cheesy as it was, I was glad to see Marian again.

Does anyone else think she looks like an elf from "Lord of the Rings?"

As Heathra has so beautifully designed, THIS should have been the ending in a happier Gizzy world:

Before the BBC announced there wouldn't be a 4th season,

I swore that I wouldn't watch another episode of Robin Hood without Gisborne.

However, now I'm curious as to what would have happened in Season 4.

Archer was destined to be the next Robin...

but there were only 2 of the original characters left: Much and Little John.

Would Will and Djaq ever return?  Did the Sheriff really die in the explosion, or would he

have made another surprise appearance?  Would Kate have made the moves on Archer?

I guess we'll never know.  At least Season 3 provided us with several good things:

Sexy, long-haired Gisborne,

hilarious Prince John,

Guy's redemption,

a look into Gizzy's past,

forgiveness and new alliances,

and heroic endings for the show's two most popular characters.

Photos are from Richard Armitage Net's Gallery and Jonas Armstrong Net's Gallery.

Thanks to both sites and also to Heather for the awesome wallpaper.  See more of her stuff here.

A Richard Armitage Valentine Video

Here's a little something to get you
in the mood for Valentine's Day! *snicker, snicker*

Remember to pause the blog's background music (bottom of screen) before watching the video.

I know what you're thinking...
but please don't be jealous of my awesome taste in music. :)

Scarves and Sweaters

Since we've already taken a peek at JT's cravats (here) and focused on black leather (here),

I figure Harry Kennedy needs a turn in the spotlight with his wardrobe.

(It's still wintertime for many of us, so we better make the most of it!)

Gray & black stripey sweater:

Black sweater & maroon scarf:
I'm not fashion savvy... but isn't combining a black shirt and a brown jacket usually a no-no?

This one is just cute so, I have to throw it in.

Striped maroon scarf and peacoat:

(I think that's what those coats are called...)

I'd just like to point out that no sisters & brothers

I know walk around holding hands like this:

I like Harry's jeans.

Maroon/red stripey sweater:  (With glasses!)

This may take the cake for being the funniest... hee hee!

Purple sweater & golden silky scarf with tassels:

My absolute Harry favorite-
The cream sweater:

I like the buttons on the shoulder.

Here it is with a maroon scarf:

Click HERE to read my review about The Vicar of Dibley.
If you haven't watched these episodes, you should!  (Very cute and hilarious.)

If you enjoy looking at hot men wearing sweaters,
be sure to join the "Stripey Sweaters" Facebook group HERE.

(Started in honor of Harry Kennedy, I believe, but all
gorgeous sweater-wearing men's photos are allowed.)

*Most of the above photos were courtesy of Richard Armitage Net's photo gallery. Thanks ladies!*

The tunes are back!

Now that I've done my complaining for today, I have some happy news! 
When you open this blog, you will once again hear an Armitage tune.

(Something from North & South, Robin Hood, or Spooks.)

I'm so excited!  Hearing "Thornton's Walk" right when I'd open this screen in the early days
used to be one of my favorite things about this blog, until it was removed from my old playlist site.
Now, thanks to Elise at Ribbons of Light, I discovered there is another site
that DOES have N&S music available for playlists plus several other RA-related tunes!  Yippee!

Can everyone hear the music,
or is it once again limited to the US and surrounding areas?

I have to vent.

Remember my New Years resolution to spread the
RA love and convert more people to Richard Armitage fandom?

Yeah, well... that's not going as planned so far.

Experience #1:

My youngest sister Kate LOVES Pride and Prejudice (2005),

so I figured it would be a piece of cake to convince her to watch North & South.
And we all know what happens when somebody watches N&S...

Thornton Syndrome!!!

Where was I?  Oh yeah... so Kate came over for a movie night recently. She said I could choose the movie... heh heh (evil, plotting laugh.)  I thought, "Here's my chance to bring her into the fold!"  However, when she saw my choice, she wrinkled her nose and said, "I don't want to watch that kind of movie right now."  I was insulted... not only was she a liar-liar-pants-on-fire for not letting me pick the movie (when I'm around my siblings, I revert back to childhood), she also turned down THE BEST MOVIE EVER!  Kate reassured me that she'd watch it when she had a free weekend and could see all 4 episodes.  I guess I'll give her the benefit of the doubt and not disown the kid.

Experience #2:

Last summer, when I first watched Robin Hood Series 1 and 2,
I wrote about it on my personal blog- the one that all my friends and family read.

(They mainly just want to see cute photos of my boys and read about all of their funny mischief,

but occasionally I throw a book/movie/actor review in there.)  So I blogged about this new series I'd discovered, including this photo of Gisborne, telling how I thought it was entertaining, yadda-yadda.

Looking back, I could've picked a hotter picture of Gizzy, but he's still handsome in a mean-looking way. Anyway, nobody really commented about it... until this week.  I received an email from a high school buddy's wife who said they just started watching this series and love it.  I doubt it had anything to do with last summer's post... but I was still excited to know that there are finally people I know in "real life" who have actually seen and like Robin Hood!  (Mostly everyone else ignores me when I chatter way about it.)

I immediately responded, asking who their favorite characters are, their favorite episode, etc.

Of course, I was hoping she'd say GISBORNE and we'd become BFF's and have RA-watching

get-togethers while painting our fingernails, eating junk food and giggling like school girls... but no.

Her favorite character is Much.

His favorite character is the Sheriff.

I have to admit, I love those characters too... but c'mon, people!!!

How can THIS GUY (pun intended) not be your favorite!?

He's the coolest one on the show by far.

*SIGH*

I'm so glad I have all of my blogging and forum buddies to share the RA love

when my real life peeps decide to be lame. haha. :)

18th Poll Results ~ Weighing In

Poll Question:
Which type of weight do you prefer on Richard Armitage?

Thanks to Deb, who suggested this poll question.
222 votes were cast, setting a new voting record here!

Poll Results
in ascending order:

Average- as in North & South or Robin Hood, Season 1: 113 (50%)
You can't go wrong with this choice.

Buff- as in Robin Hood, Season 2 or Strike Back: 77 (34%)
Holy Thornton, these are some smokin' hot biceps!!!  (My personal fav.)

Slim- as in Spooks, Season 7: 25 (11%)
The lean, mean, Lucas machine.

I wish he had a beer gut: 7 (3%)
You people either have my kind of humor, or you like your men plump... 
I'm not here to judge your tastes. haha! :)

I doubt that Richard will ever be in need of a "bro." 
(That's a male bra, for those of you who haven't watched Seinfeld.)
However, he may have a role some day that requires packing on some pounds!

If you have an idea for a poll question,
please email me at armitageblog@yahoo.com

Celebrating 6 Months!

As of today,
The Richard Armitage Fan Blog
has been around for 6 months!

This calls for a celebration!
(Look, I even decorated.)

Stats~
Blog Started: July 29, 2009
Number of Posts: 163
Number of site visits: 87,420
(14,570 per month/ 520 per day)
~I don't know if that's considered great by internet standards,
but I'm flattered that people are interested in my RA tid-bits.

Apologies if this appears to be a brag fest... it is meant to be a review, but I have a hard time containing my excitement about anything as you're probably aware by now! :)  Six months may not seem like a big deal, but I think it's neat!  This blog has provided a fun outlet for me to be creative, nutty, make friends from all over the world, and analyze/obsess over everything that has to do with our favorite actor! I want to send a big THANKS and *hug* to you blog readers for stopping by, whether you've commented or not.  I appreciate those of you who have offered ideas, art work and encouragement. The world feels like a smaller place and "meeting" you (RA convert or not) has been a blast!  Of course, the main attraction is Mr. Armitage himself and I owe a big shout-out to him.  Thanks Richie-poo!  (He gave me permission to call him that... *cough*)  Richard's work has brightened my life, providing entertainment and plenty of swooning! :)

Here are a few of my favorite
blogging moments over the last 6 months:
(Links provided in green.)

Favorite themed week:  Tux Week
Because RA in a tux is smokin' hot!

Favorite borrowed idea: Photo Friday (from Mulubinba)

Because it's a good idea and several of our blogging buddies now participate.

Favorite "other site stuff" link:  Ragtag's hilarious review of North & South

Because she describes the Thornton Syndrome so perfectly and I nearly bust a gut laughing.

Favorite original idea: Stick-Figure Richard

Because I like to draw stick figures and SFR is cute.

Favorite holiday post: The Armitage 12 Days of Christmas

Because there are 12 Thorntons brooding, 11 accountants counting, 10 lords a-leath'ring, etc.  

Favorite Themed posts: RA's Fickle Facial Hair and Before & Afters
Because they cracked me up... yes, I laugh at myself.

Favorite Weird Photo Posted: Richard as Willy Wonka

Because it was just plain nutty.

Favorite Original Feature: A Cool Find (School Boy Richard photo/interview)
Because I felt like an investigative reporter.

Favorite Poll Questions & Results:

5th Poll- RA's personal life: okay for fans to discuss & share?

Because I was the most anxious to know the outcome of this.

7th Poll- What kind of a Richard Armitage fan are you?

12th Poll- What do you think you'd do if you met RA in person?
Because these were funny!

Favorite things about blogging:
I've loved having an outlet and making all sorts of friends!  Speaking of friends, be sure to check out
the "Enjoyable Blogs" links on the sidebar.  Each blogger is unique and have qualities about
them/their blog that I admire.  (Recently added: Hollywood Spy and Ribbons of Light)

Yay for Richard and blogging!

Just so you know... while I love to blog about the lovely and talented Richard, "real life" has become super busy lately and I will probably have to cut down on the posting now and then. I think I've averaged about 5 posts per week (holy cow!) but there may be periods of time when I'll only fit in one or two weekly posts, if that. Just know that I'll still be around! I'll continue to post whatever RA-related idea pops into my head.
Stick-Figure Richard will continue to have adventures. Please remember to drop by often and feel free to contact me with any suggestions or contributions. I'm looking forward to making more friends and creating new ideas. Again, thanks for your support! :)

Do you have a favorite post/moment from
the RA Fan Blog's first 6 months?

The Adventures of Stick-Figure Richard ~Part 5

Here it is, folks! The 5th installment of SFR. 
Thanks to flandersdreamer for the fun idea. Once you see this video... you'll know WHY
SFR was  never given a nose in the first place. (I can't draw them! haha!)

*Be sure to pause the blog's background music (bottom of screen) before viewing.*

Thornt-a-licious

Thursday calls for a little Thornton...

Isn't Richard Armitage gorgeous as John Thornton!?

Real life has been busy!

SFR #5 is coming soon.

Robin Hood Season 3 Viewing Spree ~Part 3

More random thoughts from Nat's head while viewing this
season for the 1st time on a television screen rather than YouTube.

Featuring Episodes 8-11.

I couldn't help but notice that the script writers LOVED having
Gisborne knocked out and tied up this season... not that I'm complaining.

Besides being tied to a tree in episode 7, which I covered in the previous post, we also get:

Gizzy tied to a bed in episode 8

...and Gizzy's hands and legs tied together in episode 10 while learning of his troubled youth.

The script writers provided plenty of jail bait Gisborne as well:

~Right after his assassination attempt on Prince John.

~In the Nottingham Castle's dungeon

~In the York Castle dungeon.

If that weren't enough, we were kept on the edge of our seats

while Gisborne was nearly executed... twice!

Yikes!  Close calls!

Okay, backing up a bit...

in Episode 8- "The King is Dead, Long Live the King,
we say farewell to Prince John. I laugh out loud every time I watch the coronation ceremony,
and see PJ prancing into the church, throwing his head back and shouting, "Do you love me!?"
with the most cheestastic smile ever.

After reading the Gisborne/Edward Scissorhands comparison,
someone mentioned that Prince John reminds them of...

the Burger King King!
I couldn't stop laughing.

Episode 9- "A Dangerous Deal"

(aka: The Meg Episode) is one of my favorites of Season 3.

It would be perfect if we could leave out the other storyline involving Isabella's

creepy husband and the Viking gold... blah de blah de blah. (As Vasey would say.)

Look at Gisborne!

He's reflecting over all the mistakes he has made in his life

and finally taking responsibility, rather than blame his actions on others.

I love Meg's feisty personality and how she took several jabs at Gisborne.  My favorite being,
"You always were a bit pleased with yourself, weren't you?"

Unfortunately, we didn't get to find out if Guy and Meg's
 friendship and attraction would turn into a passionate romance! *SOB*

When Meg was stabbed, I LOVED how Gisborne punched the guy in the face,
swooped Meg up in his arms, and carried her off.  So romantic!!!

Here's what puzzles me over Gisborne's feelings for Meg...

In her last minutes she says, "Please?" and then Gizzy gives her the tiniest little kiss ever.

I guess he wouldn't try to make-out with a wounded person, but it makes me wonder

if he loved her as a friend only.  What do you think?

I was very touched as Gisborne held Meg and cried when she passed away. 

I'll admit, I get a little misty-eyed when I watch this scene.  However, I was disappointed

that Meg is never mentioned again, as if this part never happened.  I wanted to see a little mourning,

or for Gizzy to slap Isabella and say, "That is for Meg!"  Something like that.

Episode 10- "Bad Blood"

I need to vent for a second~

I enjoyed viewing pieces of Gisborne's past, but it made me MORE annoyed with Robin,

who is supposed to be the hero!  Young Robin is a little brat who lets Young Gizzy take the
blame for something he did. (Shooting the arrow that resulted in the priest's injury.)
Then when their parents are killed, Guy and Isabella are cast out to fend for themselves while
their father's land is handed over to Robin to become part of the Locksley estate. 
Tack all of that onto Robin getting the woman Gizzy loved...

how can anyone NOT feel sorry for Guy!?  It's like the writers wanted us to take his side!

Another thing: Young Robin's eyes are brown...

and then he grows up to have green/blue eyes?  Huh?

Okay, I'll stop complaining.  Maybe.

A cool thing about this episode:

Gizzy and Robin roasting marshmallows!  Just kidding.

This truce came as a pleasant surprise.

Episode 11- "The Enemy of My Enemy"is a good one.  We get to enjoy another Gisborne vs. Robin fight scene, where they try to punch

each other's lights out in the forest.  (It reminded me of Season 1's "Tattoo? What Tattoo?" ep.)

 

Grrrrrrrr!!!
John is one of my favorite characters...
but did anyone else notice his massive amount of eye shadow in Season 3?
Is he trying to compete with Gizzy's guyliner?

I loved it when Robin was telling the gang Gizzy's one of them and Gisborne says,
"We're almost family, aren't we Robin? We share a brother." 
*Group hug everyone!*

The first time I watched this series, I didn't like Archer. This time around, I saw him for
the eye candy that he is.  Too bad he looks more like Robin than Gisborne.

Seriously... why was there no group hug!?

I kept hoping for one, but no.