I agree that the Francie double was a bit out of it. But the Rambaldi plot, although slightly farfetched, has been important since the beginning. The show can't deny the existence of Rambaldi. Introducing him was both a great risk and a fantastic idea--a twist that no other spy drama has. To think that Rambaldi is too X-Files just now is a bit a late--having predicted over 47 events is itself unreal. But that fact has been known since Season One. It's the recent events that make fans disappointed with Rambaldi/the general plot. But Alias has already gone this far--I am 100% sure that the writers wouldn't take a jump without a solution hidden from public view. Alot of fans are disppointed with the last two minutes of the finale. The whole show cannot be judged on those two minutes. Sure, it ended our favorite TV couple (generally speaking). But the writers know how much the fans care about Sydney and Vaughn. They wouldn't abruptly tear them apart without a plausible reason or solution. Besides, the Sydney/Vaughn relationship isn't the core of the show. Despite its importance, a show can remove one of its highlights without ruining the whole show. I, personally, cheer on Sydney and Vaughn. But with or without their relationship, I'll enjoy the show for what it is. Spy action, spy drama, suspense, and dysfunctional family interaction. The show has much much much more to offer than a perfectly unbroken romance.