The Plot Turns

Without a doubt, "Homeland" was the most gripping new show last season. Many critics and voters felt the same, as "Homeland" dominated the Emmy awards in September — winning Best Drama, Best Actress in a Drama (Claire Danes) and Best Actor in a Drama (Damien Lewis).

But those of us who were hooked last season naturally had to wonder where the show was going in its next season. The first season laid out an intricate plot and built a lot of tension around the journey of Sgt. Nicholas Brody. All of that built up to what seemed like a natural climax that went another way.

The rumor was that Showtime wanted to keep Lewis, and his character, on the show. So the original direction — of Brody carrying out his terrorist plot — flipped. But the question was, how do you keep the tension going while flipping the script.

After three episodes that, essentially, set the table, it seemed the show was moving back to its original plot line. Then everything shifted again.

Rather than another slow burn as the CIA — this time assured that Brody was a terrorist — would follow its mark and flush him out, the script quickly flipped Sunday. Brody is now in custody and the possibilities of where this show seem endless.

It's a bold move for a show that's been as popular and successful as "Homeland" to move away from the allure that has been its hook through a season and a half. With eight episodes left, it's exciting to see where TV's best drama moves from here.