I’ve just finished up “Volume 2″ of Heroes. If the strike continues, it will constitute the second season of the series — if the strike ends, it will be the first half of the second season.

I have mixed feelings — the first two thirds of the season were underwhelming at best. There were some real probelms with characters and their motives, ridiculous plotting and glacial pacing. They did, however, manage to turn it around by the end. Although the finale seemed rushed, in some ways it was more satisfying than last season’s ending. The Adam story is over, and it would appear Sylar’s story is about to resume.

Hiro’s revenge, Niki’s non-powered (final?) sacrifice, Peter’s realization about Adam, Elle’s unintended act of heroism, Nathan’s decision to go public — it all played out very nicely. Heck, even Matt Parkman and Molly were used well. Claire’s storyline, however, seemed pointless to the season as a whole, and Noah’s fate was equally muddled. I’m still left wondering if Caitlyn, Peter’s “girlfriend” from Ireland, will be abandoned forever in an alternate future — not that she was a very compelling character, but I hate loose ends like that. Having her floating off in the ether is similar to what happened to Amy on Buffy — although Buffy ultimately resolved Amy’s story (in the end, I would have preferred she stayed a rat in Willow’s dorm room), I’m not sure Caitlyn will ever be mentioned again.

So, I guess they’ve pulled themselves from the edge of the abyss. How they handle Vol. 3, “Villains,” will determine whether the show has been salvaged. Unlike Lost‘s incredible third season finale, when I was certain that show had finally redeemed itself, I’m not so sure about this one. Heroes has disappointed spectacularly this season — I want it to be great, again, but I’m not sure I have faith that the writing staff can sustain a good story. We’ll see.