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(S02E03) "I didn't lie ... he made risotto." Lisbon, to Jane, about a certain cooking show with "the angry man" she watched on Tuesday

Hypnotism is a lame shortcut in TV shows and movies. Hypnotists seem to do it so easily, and the subjects seem to be put under so quickly and then remember just enough to solve the puzzle or at least advance the plot to another point.

That's why tonight's hypnotism of Lisbon by Jane was so satisfying. I groaned when it started, but I like the fact that he hypnotized her without her knowing it, how she made a comment about Rigsby and Van Pelt while under, and how the hypnotism didn't really work in the end.

There's something I'd like to say now ... what is it ... oh yeah, I TOLD YOU SO! Last week I told you that I didn't trust Lisbon's psychiatrist at all, and this week I was proven right. Sure, he's not Red John, but I knew something was up with him. And I have to admit that this episode really fooled me. I really thought that Lisbon went crazy at CBI and I really thought she was getting all screwed up on beer and pills. I didn't know it was a plan between her and Jane, though maybe we should have guessed since time was running out and Jane hadn't really done that much this episode to solve the case.

One of the reasons it worked is because it seems like they're doing bigger character stuff this season, and this seemed like a "we're going to find out Lisbon's dark side" episode. A well-done hour.

More thoughts:

- I don't think we've talked about the new opening yet. I like it. It's cool, with its retro look of various boxes and colors and the dark silhouette of Jane. Reminds me of shows like The Saint and I Spy. The theme song should be longer/better, but this is a good opening now.

- The team talking about Lisbon's hair ... the writers must have known that would be something fans talked about this season.

- Funny line from the investigator saying that Jane shouldn't threaten people with fake bombs, a reference to an earlier episode (if I remember correctly). I like how the line was just in the background while other stuff was going on.

- I don't distrust Bosco anymore. He's a hard ass and all that, but he's going to be a good guy on this show.

- The risotto line. Someone at The Mentalist watches Hell's Kitchen.

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