For a man with a "burn notice," ex-spy Michael Westen (Jeffrey Donovan) leads a productive life. After a swim back to Miami and a tango with the police, the quick-change artist returns to work in the third season of the hit USA Network series. With help from ex-IRA fighter Fiona (Gabrielle Anwar, who could pass for Katharine Ross's sultrier sister) and ex-Navy SEAL Sam (Bruce Campbell, always good value), he starts by lending a hand to Harlan (Cougar Town's Brian Van Holt), a former associate. Then, he tangles with a smarmy arms dealer (The Shield's Jay Karnes) and a realtor with a secret (Rescue Me's Callie Thorne). Other cases occupy his time when he isn't dodging Detective Paxson (Moon Bloodgood), a persistent police officer, and working for the smooth-talking Strickler (Ben Shenkman), a recruiter who offers him a return to spy duty. Then there's sociopathic black op Gilroy (Chris Vance) and the nefarious Simon (Garret Dillahunt). If he can outsmart these two tricksters, Management (Frasier's John Mahoney) just might wipe his record clean. Unfortunately, Fiona is losing patience with all these shady characters, who are endangering their relationship--and their lives.
Filled with real explosions and set to a revved-up score, the show plays like a high-tech version of a Stephen J. Cannell production in its mix of action and humor. If yogurt addicts Michael and Fi keep fit, Sam and Michael's mother, Madeline (Emmy nominee Sharon Gless, recalling her role in Queer as Folk), drink and smoke with impunity, but they always come through in the clinch. Furthermore, Tyne Daly drops by for a guest spot, making for a welcome Cagney and Lacey reunion. Though this set eschews commentary, it includes a featurette on the hard-working stunt team and highlights from a Comic-Con panel.