SCC: I was far less concerned about it becoming the Derek Chronicles, mostly because he really doesn't register as a character with me at all, but rather that they would put more emphasis on John which is something at least the promo picture (http://www.terminatorchronicles.com/sarah-connor-chronicles-season-2-cast-promo/) seems to suggest. Definitely thumbs up for Shirley Manson as the new villain, though.

Media reactions: haven't kept an eye on LoM specifically, but I have been keeping up with Mad Men articles, and they definitely emphasis the period look and nostalgia aspects, which is honestly disturbing me a little. I mean, yes, maybe the authors are all in their sixties, but I find it bizarre that they don't acknowledge that the show itself is a lot more critical. On the other hand, it might be the same kind of journalism that still calls Number Six a "sexy robot" after four seasons and a TV movie. I'm glad that fandom reaction on all of these seems to be at least a bit more diverse.

(Also, re: Snape: I actually know a bunch of people who like him precisely because he is a cruel teacher. You may guess their profession. And yes, I do believe there is something wrong both with German career advisers and the teacher Referendariat in certain states.)

Interesting points on Masada, I don't think I have heard of the mini series before.