http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MnSQ83BkujQ Television shows live and die off of the quality of their subplots. With that being said Bates Motel seriously needs to alter the trajectory of just about every subplot it features because they always drag down the quality of the storytelling. Without interesting things happening outside of the main action the writing becomes stiff and it all begins to seem forced. This is really my main gripe with the show and the biggest thing that keeps it away from achieving greatness. When the show focuses heavily on Norma and Norman it's very good but when it strays to Dylan working in the pot fields or dealing with the underground sex trade that was previously run out of the motel it becomes very bland. Dylan is a good addition to the cast who needs something new to further his character. The idea of having him work illegally to support himself helps to keep him compelling but he needs a little bit more moral grey area and his current job isn't delivering that. Additionally the underground sex trade was interesting for an episode or two but quickly became tiresome. It's very good to show the darker underbelly of the town but the show needs a less cliche' way to show it. A serial killer on the loose for the season or some type of hotel guest that brings an air of mystery to the show would make for a subplot that would elevate the drama in many ways. Agree? Disagree? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
My favorite movies are Before Sunrise, Pulp Fiction, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Alien and Her so don't be surprised to see those pop up in my writing from time to time. I'm currently in school for Journalism/English and I have an obsession with all things cinematic on the side.