California, here we come...a little depressed

I said that Marissa’s death may have finally freed “The O.C”

Now it looks like I might be wrong about that one.

That’s not to say Thursday’s season premiere is bad; it’s just a little gloomy. Seth is adrift in Newport without his beloved Summer, who’s gone hippy at Brown. Ryan is punishing himself for Marissa’s death by participating in a fight club. And Julie’s popping pills while her family crumbles around her.

It’s all understandable considering how last season ended, but it’s so hard to watch these fun, vibrant characters mope around.

I’ve read a couple of reviews that the fourth episode is as good as season one—which means it will be really good. I just hope that everyone (including FOX) can hang on that long.

“The O.C.” returns Thursday (November 2nd) at 9 p.m. on FOX.