The Vikings Are Here!

I'd been seeing billboards all over Los Angeles, but they were tagged History Channel. I figured that "Vikings" was a documentary series on violent Scandinavians that was getting a big marketing push. After Hatfields & McCoys, how could I be so silly? History Channel has been venturing into original programming and this latest endeavor is pretty spectacular if you ask me. And I've only seen two episodes!

Michael Hirst, the co-regent of period drama alongside Andrew Davies, is the mastermind behind this historical drama. If you liked his other series "The Tudors" and Starz's "Camelot", "Vikings" is in the same vein. The nine part series (hopefully season one of many) follows the ambitious farmer/warrior Ragnar Lothbrok as he journeys towards greatness. But...you know, viking greatness which among other things includes killing, stealing and kidnapping. Hey, if it makes for great drama, I'm in!

"Vikings" definitely does make for great drama. From the captivating opening credits, through the action and into the tender family moments, the storytelling is stellar. After only the first two episodes (ok, after 20 mins) I am completely enthralled and already disappointed that there are only nine episodes to look forward to.

Ok, down to the nuts and bolts. What else besides an exciting story makes this series worth watching?

The opening credits are stunning. See, I've already mentioned them twice. Gorgeous images accompanied by the hauntingly beautiful song "If I Had a Heart" by Fever Ray. No surprise as to the quality if you look back at the intros to "The Tudors" and "Camelot". Hirst obviously appreciates the value that masterfully made titles add to a series. Director Rama Allen created a memorable sequence that has quickly become one of my favorites.  Watch the Vikings Intro

Sublimely shot by veteran cinematographer John S. Bartley (ASC), it makes me actually want to visit this seemingly savage and harsh place. Although, the story takes place in the Nordic region, the series is shot in Ireland. Apparently, the go to place for period and fantasy genre productions these days.

The production design, art direction, costumes, make-up and ESPECIALLY the hair is amazing. Who knew that there was a dude out there that could pull off a mohawk/mullet braid?

Speaking of...once again Hirst went to casting directors extraordinaire Frank & Nuala Moiselle. For their Norse hero, they found Travis Fimmel, a relatively unknown Australian actor. I don't know if it's accurate, but I love his viking accent. I have a feeling that this role will take him places. He really embodies this warrior who madly loves his wife, is a good father and is destined to be a leader. That is, if he's strong enough to go head to head with the Earl of his tribe played by the brilliant Gabriel Byrne. I've always liked him, but after watching "In Treatment", I would watch that man read a newspaper. I can't wait to see what he does with a villain.

I don't really know anything about this time period or these people. Obviously, this is television series and they will take creative liberties. If you want complete accuracy, go watch a documentary. Sometimes history needs a little doctoring to be entertaining enough to keep you coming back every week. I love it when I'm inspired to do some research of my own to see if what I'm watching really happened. To find out the other side's story. To put it into context. Historical dramas engage me, particularly when they are so beautifully produced.

Check out this cool infographic on History.com about Viking Gods & Mythology

So the lesson for today? Watch "Vikings" on History Channel (formerly that Nazi documentary channel) Sundays at 10pm. You'll thank me later.

Only 2 episodes have been broadcast, but you can watch the first three on History.com or on Hulu.com.

Happy Viewing!

The Following is Fan-Flippin'-Tastic! You Should Be Watching

Hands down, my favorite new show of the winter season is "The Following" starring Mr. Kevin Bacon himself. Why should I watch, you might ask. I'll tell you. Week after week (there have been 8 so far) I am on the edge of my seat. "The Following" has the intensity and suspense of "24" and the deranged, albeit brilliant writing chops of "Luther". This psychological thriller was created by Kevin Williamson. Yes..... "Dawson's Creek" Kevin Williamson, but remember he did the Scream movies too. Trust me, this is no "Dawson's Creek". In a time of DVRs, online streaming and next day viewing, this is one to watch live.

Bacon plays Ryan Hardy, the former FBI agent that took down Professor and serial killer Joe Carroll. His specialty? The macabre writings of Edgar Allan Poe of course. During his years in prison, Joe has acquired followers, equally damaged and demented people that want.... no, need to kill. You might think, it must be hard to recruit cult members from inside a prison cell. Apparently, if you are charming and seductive enough........ and have a sexy British accent, it can be done. Knowing that these soldiers are out there killing on his behalf almost seems as satisfying to Joe as committing the murders himself. But to a man that is passionate about death, how long can that last? Well, we're only in the beginning stages of a grand plan. And yes, I can see this going on many exciting seasons. I mean come on, no one thought "24" last as long as it did and there at least 4-5 (debatably) really good seasons.

When the followers are set in motion, Hardy is brought back to the FBI as a consultant to connect Carroll to the crimes and stop them. He's teamed with cult expert Debra Parker and a keen young agent that's read everything there is to know on the Joe Carroll case, including Hardy's tell-all.

Ryan Hardy's involvement with the original investigation was complicated.  He's obviously been destroyed by it mentally, physically and emotionally. Ryan's deep connection to Joe's wife Claire (Natalie Zea) during the trial  led to a brief affair. Despite the love between them, Ryan knew that he'd be a reminder of the monster in their family and ended things. After Ryan left and with her husband incarcerated, Claire was left to raise young Joey Jr. alone.

Or was she? Joe has followers everywhere, especially watching over his beloved family. With each episode, we see a little more of how big this network of psychopaths really is. They seem like you and me. Normal....but they're not. They've been lying in wait. Some of them, for years. And now the plan is unfolding. I'll watch through my fingers covering my face, but I have to know what happens. It's gruesome. It's shocking. It's thrilling. It's heart-poundingly great television. I guarantee at least one gasp every episode.

I watch so much on cable and premium channels these days. It's great to see that a Network will air something that pushes the envelope a little. The places this show goes, it doesn't feel like a Network playing it safe. So, it's not for you if you're looking for another "NCIS", but you probably figured that out by now.

Please accept my sincerest of apologies for not telling you about how amazing this show is from the very first week. I knew it then. Seriously, watch it! After the pilot, you'll be hooked. Or completely disgusted and never read this blog again.

You can catch up from the beginning on Hulu Plus. Fox.com and OnDemand only post the last few episodes. Boo on them : (

Mondays at 9pm on Fox

More Mini-Series - Of the Fantasy Variety

Continuing on with my mini-series obsession, I thought I'd share some of my favorites in the fantasy genre. I have to say, SyFy's original mini-series are their best content (with the exception of Battlestar Galactica, obviously. But hey, that started off as a mini-series so there you go!). Of course incredible production value is part of the reason I love them, but it's also because they are reimagined stories. Characters you know, but with a twist on a classic tale. So without further adieu....

Neverland (2011) - Written and directed by Nick Willing, Neverland is sort of like a prequel to the well known story of Peter Pan. Back before Hook was "Hook" and Peter was "The Pan", they were pals pickpocketing the streets of London. When Jimmy Hook's crew of rambunctious young boys tries to burgle a jewelry store, they find a magic orb that when struck, sends everyone in its vicinity to an unknown land. This far off place is inhabited by pirates, Indians and even a crocodile with a few too many legs. The boys are aided by the tribe of Indians or Native Americans since I'm writing this in 2013. Young Charlie Rowe excellently plays the orphaned Peter who was saved from the retched workhouse by his not always benevolent guardian.  Jimmy (Rhys Ifans) falls in with the pirate crowd whose Captain is Elizabeth Bonny, one badass lady pirate played by Anna Friel ("Pushing Daisies" and Public Enemies). You may recognize Mr. Smee since Bob Hoskins played the part in another reimagined Pan tale - Hook (love that movie!). Everyone wants to get home, but good ol' Jimmy Hook doesn't want to leave without a little loot. Particularly the mineral dust that comes from the tree spirits, which gives the power of flight. Capt'n Bonny has and would kill again for such power. Peter, being the upstanding pickpocket that he is, decides to stop Jimmy and save the tree spirits. With the tribe backing him and some fairy dust coursing through his body, Peter takes on Jimmy. You can probably guess what happens. My only problem with this reimagining is that Tinkerbell is very unattractive. She is voiced by Keira Knightly, but another actress did all the green screen work. The final result is a woman covered in silver body paint and slicked back hair so that she nearly looks bald. It's not a good look. That being said, you should still check it out. Neverland itself is full of beautiful landscapes and intricate details. The costuming for multiple time periods is ornate and downright lovely. It's a fun adventure story in the spirit of Peter Pan.
You can stream on Netflix. Click here for a preview

Alice (2009) - Writer/Director Nick Willing already had some experience with Wonderland by the time he took on this reimagining of the famous Lewis Carroll story. Back in 1999, he'd directed a more traditional take on Alice's journey for NBC that garnered four Primetime Emmy Awards. In this iteration, Alice is a grown woman, a judo sensei who spends her time searching for her father that disappeared when she was ten years old. When Alice follows Jack, the man she's been dating to return a ring she wasn't ready for, she's magically transported into another world. A very vertical world where the people she encounters believe she is "Alice of Legend" returned to Wonderland 150 years after bringing down the House of Cards. In her attempt to get home, Alice encounters a tea shop owner with quite the fashion sense, called Hatter. Marvelously played by Andrew Lee Potts, Hatter has his own agenda, yet is drawn to Alice and helping her find her way. Turns out that this too soon engagement ring is actually the key to the looking glass. The Queen of Hearts has been desperate to find it and will lop off anyone's head that is in her way. She sends her best (yet recently dead) assassin, Mad March after Alice. Kathy Bates is devilishly good as the Queen as is Colm Meaney as her constantly doting King. Alice and Hatter meet many interesting characters along the way. Pretty much everyone you'd expect from the story makes an appearance in one way or another. I like that this classic children's tale is updated and twisted. It feels more relevant and therefore more entertaining....at least to me. Well maybe not just me. It was nominated for two Primetime Emmy Awards and won a slew of others. My favorite part by far was Andrew Lee Potts as Hatter, but a close second was Matt Frewer as Charlie, the only remaining White Knight. Both gave wonderfully quirky performances. Check out all the classic characters by streaming Alice on Netflix. Click here for a preview

Tin Man (2007) - You're probably tired of hearing about Nick Welling, but I promise this is the last time. Directed by Nick Welling and written by Steven Long Mitchell & Craig Van Sickle (the team behind "The Pretender" - love that show!) this mini series is a reimagining (another word you're probably tired of) of The Wizard of Oz. The ever adorable Zooey Deschanel is DG, a small town waitress who never quite felt at home in Kansas. DG has been having reoccurring dreams of a beautiful, lavender eyed woman telling her that storm is coming. A storm comes alright, but it's no ordinary tornado. It's a travel storm sent by the evil Queen Azkadellia (Kathleen Robertson) for her Longcoat soldiers to journey through and kill DG. Fortunately, DG escapes by way of the storm and ends up in the O.Z. or the Outer Zone. It's here that she meets up with some wacky locals - Glitch (Alan Cumming), a former royal advisor has had half his brain removed under Azkadellia's reign. Raw (Raoul Trujillo) is a psychic empath whose people have been enslaved and Wyatt Cain, played by my favorite bottle blond Neal McDonough. Cain is a former Tin Man aka OZ cop whose family was killed after his opposing Azkadellia's rule. Sealed in an iron suit, Cain was forced to watch his family die over and over again on a loop.  Together, this rag tag group of sad weirdos unearth the truth about DG's hidden past and fight to overthrow Azkadellia. As was the case with Alice, all the major characters make an appearance in some form. The production value is stunning. Gorgeous art direction and costuming. Out of the nine, Primetime Emmy nominations, Tin Man won for Outstanding Make-Up. If you ask me, this adaptation was much more exciting and adventurous than the L. Frank Baum classic. Then again, it was great material to work from. Follow the yellow brick road by streaming on Netflix. Click here for a preview

What do you think should be the next classic tale to be reimagined?

P.S. Netflix does not pay me to promote them. I'm just a streaming addict on a budget. If you've ever marathoned an entire TV season on Netflix, you know.....it's just like crack, only better. Or so I'm told.

Love TV, But Short on Time? Try a British Mini-Series!

Just one of the many things I love about British television is that they embrace the mini-series, but not the kind that we're used to. Across the pond, they cut theirs down to one hour episodes. Sometimes on consecutive nights, sometimes once a week as any other series, but with the intention of one season.

I guess my love affair with television series' sprung out of my adoration of the mini-series as a longer form of storytelling. Remember when the networks would air sweeping epics over three nights? The British sure are talented at packing in a ton of information into each one hour episode. By the end, I feel like I've spent several seasons with these characters....but it's only been a few hours and it doesn't feel rushed. So if you are in the market for some great storytelling and don't have the time to invest in multiple 22 episode seasons, here are some recommendations for British mini-series/short self contained seasons.

Criminal Justice (2008) - You may know him as Q from Skyfall or recognize him from Cloud Atlas or even know him as Freddie Lyon of "The Hour", but Ben Whishaw's breakthrough performance was in season one of Criminal Justice. This five episode season follows a young man through Britain's criminal justice system. Whishaw's Ben Coulter spends a drunken evening with a pretty girl he meets, but wakes up in the middle of the night to find her stabbed to death. He can't remember what happened. Of course, all evidence points to him and he's arrested. A solicitor named Stone believes that Ben is innocent or at least that the case is not as straight forward as the evidence seems. This unsophisticated, schlubby, solicitor (lawyer) who wears bandages around his feet with flip flops because of chronic eczema is wonderfully portrayed by Con O'Neill. Another highlight of this series is the relationship between Ben and his cellmate, an older gentleman who's been behind bars for quite a while and knows the ropes. Hooch as he's known inside, is a listener, which from what I gather means that he gets a few perks for being an unqualified psychiatrist to other inmates. He is brilliantly played by the late Pete Postlethwaite. Oh and keep a look out for "Homeland" CIA head honcho as king of the cell block. This one has my highest recommendation. Stream all five episodes on Netflix. Here's a taste - Criminal Justice Promo

Public Enemies (2012) - Anna Friel ("Pushing Daisies" and Land of the Lost) and Daniel Mays (tons of Brit stuff you've probably never heard of) play Paula and Eddie, probation officer and newly released criminal. Eddie served ten years for the murder of his girlfriend and is now trying to get his life back, only the past and his reputation are making that pretty difficult to do. Paula gave her last parolee the benefit of the doubt and he killed again, leaving her career in shambles. She puts it all on the line to help Eddie when he confesses that he was innocent all along. Friel and Mays have incredible on-screen chemistry. In three short one-hour episodes Mays impresses with the portrayal of a boy, not yet a man trying to begin again. Paula and Eddie's relationship is complicated and messy, which is why it's so damn compelling to watch. Five stars. Stream all three eps on Netflix. Here's a sneak peak - Public Enemies Promo

The Silence (2010) - Genevieve Barr gives a breakout performance as 18 year old Amelia, a deaf girl that witnesses a murder and becomes entangled in her uncle's mission to expose police corruption. Amelia has recently had a cochlear implant and is feeling very pressured to integrate with the hearing world. She starts staying at her Uncle's house in Bristol during the week to avoid all the travel back and forth from the burbs for her speech therapy. While DCI Uncle Jim (Douglas Henshall) is spending every waking hour investigating murders at the cost of his home life, Amelia witnesses one of her own. With Amelia's help, he ties it to a drug related killing and uncovers evidence that his colleagues in the drug squad are dirty cops. It's up to him to uncover the whole truth before they get to Amelia. Props to Fiona Seres for writing a deaf leading character and Dearbhla Walsh for casting a deaf actor. Amelia's struggle with whether or not she wants to be part of the hearing world was just as prominent as the crime, beautifully portrayed by Barr who was born deaf, but had to learn sign language for the role. These four one-hour eps fly by. The action and suspense will keep you pressing play until you've shot four hours of your day, but definitely not wasted. Two ecstatic thumbs up. Stream it on Netflix. This promo doesn't nearly do it justice, but take a gander - The Silence Promo

Prisoners Wives (2012) - You can probably guess what this show is about by the title. Gemma, Francesca, Lou and Harriet all share one thing in common. The men in their lives are serving time behind bars at Her Majesty's Pleasure. Gemma is severely preggers when her husband is arrested for murder. She's shown the ropes by Francesca, a glammed up middle aged woman that dresses like a slutty teenager. Her man (Iain Glen) is on year six of an 18 year stretch for drug trafficking. You might recognize him as Sir Jorah from "Game of Thrones" or Sir Richard Carlisle on "Downton Abbey". This dude likes to be called Sir a lot..... and he's in contention for The Hardest Working Actor in Britain Award. Lou is a mum that deals drugs to support her kid, but her baby's daddy is doing her time. Not sure you could ask for a more supportive boyfriend. She probably can't ever ask him to take the trash out again, though. Harriet is a widow who turned her teenage son into the police when she suspected him of planning a killing spree. Over six 47 min episodes we watch these women deal with their circumstances and even bond over them. Can you still have a relationship when you only see your man two hours a week and have to be strip searched to do so? Season 2 is in the works, but from what I can tell, it will be a whole new cast of wives. Oh and it has a great opening credits including the music. I'm a sucker for good opening credits. Streaming on Netflix. Check out the trailer - Prisoners Wives Promo

Inside Men (2012) - If you're a fan of "Luther", you'll love "Inside Men". Warren Brown and Steven Mackintosh of the critically acclaimed and award winning series are joined by Ashley Walters in this high stakes drama about three cash depot employees that plan a multi-million pound heist. The series jumps back in forth in time to different points in the plan. Sometimes irritating, but mostly, it keeps you guessing as to who's all in and who's about to break. Brown, Mackintosh and Walters do not disappoint when it comes to intense, pressure filled scenes that fuel each episode. Keeping a long term caper on track would be difficult for any trio of thieves, but throw in one newly adopted daughter, a crazy wife and a pregnant girlfriend and there are bound to be hiccups. DVD on Netflix or stream all four episodes on Amazon Instant Video for $1.99 each. Take a look - Inside Men Promo

I hope this helps the next time you've got a rainy day with nothing to do or if you just love television (particularly British television) as much as I do.

Any mini-series to add to this list? Disagree? All thoughts welcome. Just leave a comment below.

Cheers!

Five Reasons I like "Terra Nova" (So far...)

Finally got a chance to catch up with the pilot of "Terra Nova". Monday nights are gonna be packed this fall, however you should check out this new series. If you haven't seen it, Earth is dying. Scientists find a fracture in time and a new settlement is created 85 million years in the past. Sounds stupid, but I really enjoyed it, much to my surprise. Here's why...

1. Gorgeously shot in Australia, this series is stunning to the eye. No expense was spared in the multi multi muliti million dollar pilot (they're saying upwards of $20 mil). Risky, but if the story grabs us, it could my visual substitute for "Lost".

2. The men. Love Jason O'Mara. He doesn't have the best luck with new shows ("Men in Trees" and the Americanized "Life on Mars"), but he's so damn likeable. Stephen Lang is much like his character in Avatar, but that's what he does best. This time around he's on the good side as Commander Taylor. New crush, Dean Geyer who upon research found out that he was an Australian Idol. That's right. Still cute. I'm not however a big fan of the son, Josh. Guess the juvenile, spiteful behavior of a typical teenage boy isn't appealing to me.

3. Christine Adams. As Mira, Adams is leader of the Sixes which is a renegade group surviving outside the settlement. In the one major scene she had, she was powerful and engaging. I get the feeling being anything else is out of the question for Christine. I remember her most as the cold sister-wife of Joel McHale's character in a single episode of "Pushing Daisies". That's how memorable she was. Being a badass leader will be a home run for her.

4. The action/suspense. I'm not a fan of horror, but everyone likes a little suspense. They did a pretty good job or keeping me on the edge of my seat. I'll even go so far as to say, they could save some bucks and show the dinos even less. What you can't see, scares you more. All in all the pacing was good. Hope they can keep it up in 42 minute episodes.

5. The mystery. There is strange gold writing or equations on the walls near some waterfalls. Commander Taylor and the Sixes know it's there and they want to keep it secret. Does this mean other humans have been there? From another time? What does it mean???!!!! Can't wait to find out....as long as it doesn't take six seasons or the show gets cancelled before all is revealed.

You can watch the first episode at www.fox.com or even OnDemand. Finally! Fox is OnDemand (for me at least). Episode two will air Monday at 8pm, just before the premiere of "House", which is also going to be A...wait for it.....MAZING!

Did you watch? What did you think?

The Summer of Spectacular New Series

It feels like more summer series premiered in 2011 than ever before. And boy did they deliver. As the summer comes to a close, I felt the need to reflect on my favorites and express my excitement for their imminent return. In no particular order (for the most part) here's what I've been watching for the past three months.

"SUITS" - If you follow me (@TVMaven) on Twitter, you already know how freaking cool I think this show is. I'm mean SERIOUSLY! Harvey Specter is the epitome of cool as is this show. The gorgeous shots of New York and the fantastic costuming only enhance the great story of a hot shot lawyer taking a genius (minus a law degree) under his wing. Gabriel Macht and Patrick Adams are superbly supported by Rick Hoffman and Gina Torres, two of my favorite character actors. I'm extremely excited for the season finally this Thursday night. If you missed season 1, better catch up before next summer when they return with 16 all new episodes (4 more!).

"AWKWARD" - For me, "Awkward" was the surprise of the summer. I never thought I'd be watching MTV again, but this little series about a girl (with my name) suffering through high school with a heroic sense of humor has me coming back week after week. Of course the writing is way more sophisticated than actual high schoolers, but not in that melodramatic "Dawson's Creek" kind of way....in an awesomely funny way. I'd never condone actual teenagers watching it. So if you're of age, check it out. We've still got a couple weeks left to go before school's out in Palos Verdes. They've already been picked up for Season 2, which we can expect in 2012. Go Jenna!

"WILFRED" - If "Awkward" was a surprise, "Wilfred" was a bombshell. After months of seeing promos, I became used to the idea of a man in a dog suit that everyone else saw as a dog, but I had no idea it would be so filthy. I'm pretty sure every episode was rated MA LS (mature audience, containing language and sex) some needed a V for violence and if there was a D for drugs, slap that onto every intro. This may turn some people off, but I thoroughly enjoyed being shocked week after week. Can't wait for more in Season 2 next summer.

"FRIDAY NIGHT DINNER" - There was no question I would love this British series being created by an "Inbetweeners" alum and starring Simon Bird, Tamsin Greig and Mark Heap. This dysfunctional, yet hilariously close family always seems to find trouble during their weekly dinners. Having this show air over the summer definitely took the sting off of the "Inbetweeners" ending, but now what will fill its void after next Saturday's finale? Counting down to series (season for you non BBC watchers) 2.

"SWITCHED AT BIRTH" - I love this show! So many questions. It really makes you think about what you would do in their situation(s). It's very complicated and there are always new things coming to light in addition to these two girls just trying to make their way through high school. After it's breakout success, ABC Family added twelve more eps (for a total of 22) to season 2 which will begin airing in January 2012. So it won't continue to be a summer series, but it definitely brightened this year up.

"FRANKLIN & BASH" - Who doesn't want to see Zack Morris all buff and in a suit? I sure do and that's just one reason why I heart this new lawyer-y comedy series from TNT. Breckin Meyer is definitely another. The chemistry between these two characters and the actors is hilariously entertaining to watch. Rounding out my top three reasons to watch F&B is Pindi, their agorophohic, Indian researcher that lives in the man cave along with the legal duo. This guy's got me in stitches every week, just wish there was more of him. Check out the first season so that you're good to go next summer as TNT has already renewed them for a second go around.

"FALLING SKIES" - No other show had me more excited week after week than TNT's newest sci-fi drama, which is why I couldn't just sit in front of the TV. I had to attend the Paley Center panel so that I could hear straight from the creators where the show was going. There is so much drama in the form of aliens headed our way next summer. If I recall correctly, TNT renewed the series after only two weeks (or so). Pretty frakkin' impressive for a sci-fi show. Leading the charge in season one was Noah Wylie, but who knows what season two will hold for him after boarding the uber scary alien spaceship. This show is about character and survival at the core. Even if you aren't a sci-fi geek, give it a try. The action and adventure is interwoven with scenes of heartfelt connection. Relatable to any audience. Watch it! Love it!


So, the bar has been set pretty high. My hope is that 2012 will not only deliver terrific second seasons of these shows, but a few more great series. Premieres aren't just for the fall anymore.

"Burn Notice" Makes a Movie.....About Sam!

Two people that make me smile when I see their names in the credits. One you probably know, the other you probably don't. Bruce Campbell, yes he was once the Old Spice Man and RonReaco Lee. The latter was one of my favorite reoccurring guest stars on "The Shield". I always hoped that he was the real father of Danni's kid. Anyway, back to why I'm writing. Tonight was the premiere of the "Burn Notice" prequel movie, "The Fall of Sam Axe"!!!!

The movie tells the tale of how Sam Axe was discharged from the Navy Seals and became a rogue spy operative with Michael and Fi. We've heard bits an pieces over the last four seasons of his missions and antics in Colombia, so it was only natural we get the full story. I have to say, Bruce looks very handsome in Navy whites, but I'm partial to his Hawaiian shirts.

Commander Axe is assigned to work with the military in Columbia. They are tracking down a terrorist organization which plans to bomb a local clinic. When Sam figures out that the Colombian Colonel that he's working with intends to kill him and bomb the clinic himself, he risks his life to save everyone inside. RonReaco is the ethical/cute doctor. Along with an aid worker, an orphaned teenage girl and a band of goat herder/terrorists, they fight the corrupt military.

Creator Matt Nix wrote the script and Michael Weston himself, Jeffrey Donovan directs. It had that "Burn Notice" feeling, but something was missing. Michael's voice over in the series works because he's helping us understand what he's doing. He's teaching us cool spy stuff. In this case, Sam's just recalling what's already happened in a Naval briefing. I'd rather they did without it.

All in all, it was ok. Better than the "24" movie. It was cool to see how Sam got kicked out of the Seals and picked up the alias Chuck Finley. Good ol' Chuck. There will be several encores this week and I'm sure you can catch the movie OnDemand soon. Can't wait to see new episodes of "Burn Notice" this June on USA.

"CHAOS" - An Aptly Titled New Series

Last night, CBS’s new spy show premiered. CHAOS follows the four members of the ODS division of the CIA. Yes, there are many acronyms in this show, but it’s worth it. I have to say, I was hooked in the first 10 mins. Brett Ratner directed the pilot written by veteran television writer Tom Spezialy. Needless to say there were no problems with pacing.

It’s Rick Martinez’s first day at the agency. First he’s mistaken for a terrorist, then told his job has been cut and finally placed as a mole on the team the director has it in for. His new spy buddies are less than cordial to him at first. Freddy Rodriguez of "Six Feet Under" is fresh faced Martinez. Team leader is Michael Dorset played by Eric Close (“Without a Trace”). He’s been working with Casey Malkin and Billy Collins for “six glorious years”, so they’re kinda close. Tim Blake Nelson (Oh Brother Where Art Though) is Casey, also known as the human weapon. Looks can be deceiving. Spezialy added a little Scotch with James Murray as Billy Collins, the de-commissioned British spy. If you’re a BBC fan like me, you’ll recognize him from “Primeval”. He was such a quiet Brit in that show, but I quite like the over the top Scotsman he plays here.

In their first real mission with newbie Martinez, the team disobeys orders and takes it upon themselves to save an American citizen held hostage in Sudan. Rick quickly learns that he hasn’t prepared himself quite as well as he thought he did, but he’s got spirit and determination. He wears his heart on his sleeve and is far too trusting for CIA operative. This is part of what makes this show light and fun, yet still entertaining.

It’s just too bad that CBS gave it the timeslot of death, Friday at 8pm. I’m sure it’ll get the older crowd as you’ve got good looking rogue G-Men making trouble on CBS, but I’m hoping more people will DVR it if you’re not at home on a Friday night like me. In a word ……it’s fun. Check it out. The pilot is available on the website...

http://www.cbs.com/primetime/chaos/

Stay tuned….Fridays at 8pm on CBS

P.S. Use the name generator on their website to find out what your code name is. Mine is Lone Wolf. Status: Rogue Agent. Security Clearance Level: 5.

P.P.S. What are some of your other favorite spy shows?

Has "Chuck" Jumped the Shark?

These days, I am completely convinced that Chuck's power was in his hair. He looks like a yuppie! Where are those dorky, wavy locks that we love so much? I caught seasons 1-3 over the summer after some prodding by my friends. I quickly became addicted to the bumbling and lovable spy wannabe in seasons 1 & 2 that were action packed and full of fun. Season 3 was so-so. Now, we're in season 4 and it's kinda like...what's the point? The original premise of the show was a dorky guy getting caught up in the spy world, but now Chuck is a full fledged spy and the writers are grasping at storyline straws. Honestly, I don't care about Chuck and Sarah's romance. It was cute to watch Chuck's crush on the unattainable, hot spy girl, but now she's attainable. BORING! There are still some laughs from Morgan and Casey, but not as many. We are currently in the middle of an ongoing mission against an evil organization....again. They all blend together at this point. I can't tell you which one was in what season or what they wanted. Timothy Dalton and Linda Hamilton are reoccurring guest stars, but they have the worst storyline. I can't blame them too much. Chuck had to evolve, but the Chuck that throws a punch confidently is not the goofy man-child I fell in love with. He could only be a spy novice for so long, but they could have kept it interesting somehow. I love this show, but I don't know how much longer I can watch with storylines like this. When Chuck got down on one knee, I gagged a little. Disappointed, team Chuck. I am disappointed.

BTW...Captain Awesome is still awesome, only now he's Papa Awesome ; )

"Burn Notice" Season 5 Finale Shines

Jay Karnes (our favorite giant detective from “The Shield”) returns to “Burn Notice” as Brennan the psychopath. YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Karnes is BRI-LLIANT as a villan. The only thing better than watching him go head to head with Michael is watching him trade quips (aka death threats) with Sam. The two hour season finale gets not one, but two guest stars. Tim Matheson also returns as Larry, the spy that never dies. Brennan has stolen the list of everyone that burnt Michael and now wants him to track down and kill every last one of them. Matheson is in town to assist with the slaughter. They off the first guy on the list. THEN…..Larry stabs Brennan!!!! It would be weird for Brennan to show up again down the line, but I didn’t want him to die! He’s such a great character. Karnes needs more meaty roles likes this. Someone needs to create another terrific character like Dutch for him.

Gotta love all the explosions and repelling off buildings. That’s why this show is so fun. I think that the popularity of Bruce Campbell has compelled the writers to make Sam’s character better and better. At this year’s Comic Con, it was announced that Campbell would be starring in a “Burn Notice” prequel about Sam Axe’s last mission before retiring in Miami. I noticed last week how svelte he’s looking these days. He can definitely play Sam before Michael. AAANNNNND……Jeffrey Donovan will be directing. My hope is that it will better than the “24” movie. It could fantastically fun or horribly wrong.

In part two of the finale, Robert Wisdom returns as Vaughn. I know him best as Uriel from “Supernatural”, but maybe you know him as Bunny from “The Wire”. Either way, he’s a scary dude. A high speed car chase ensues where once again, the Charger is destroyed. I swear, that car has 9 lives, maybe more. Jesse gets some rebar through his leg when they crash, but the team manages to hide out in an abandoned hotel where they attempt to hold off Vaughn and his men who want the list. Meanwhile, Sharon Gless gives another one of her amusing performances as Madeline get close to the politician that will do some good with the list. I’ve always found Maddy and Sam’s relationship to be strange. It’s not romantic, but he’s too old her be her kid. Maybe a little brother? It’s a quirky little friendship. I like it.

I think Jeffrey Donovan is an under rated actor. Yes, sometimes Michael Weston is a little stiff, but the look in his eyes when his mother tells him that she’s been shot and that there’s no use…….ugh! I just wanted to hug him. This episode was flying with emotions. Fiona’s love for Michael is more visible than ever. She’s a tough cookie and likes to keep it bottled up, but sometimes you can’t hide the love for your soul mate. Right up until Sam came riding in with the cavalry, it felt like a last episode. AND THEN……Michael gets back in? Could it be, after five seasons Michael Weston is a real certified spy again? My gut says, he should tread lightly. It might not be everything he thinks it’ll be. Can’t wait for season 6!

Monday Madness

“How I Met Your Mother” – HURLEY!!!! Jorge Garcia guest stars as Marshall, Ted and Lily’s old college friend. Needless to say, there are tons of “Lost” references. How would you like to receive a text pic of Marshall’s junk? 

“House” – Kuno Becker guest stars as a man that goes all Jesus to keep his kid alive. Seriously? Nailing yourself to a cross? Given, I’m not a religious person, but I’d like to think that even if I was, I’d still think this is pretty crazy. Mr. Becker is all grown up. He’s not the cute kid from the Goal movies anymore. It was kinda strange to see him as the father of ten year old with facial hair and all. I thought his performance was great, especially the scenes where his facial expressions, didn’t match what he was feeling. Is it just me or does anyone else thing that House should have cancelled his plans with Cuddy to console (aka drink with) Wilson after Sam broke up with him?

“Chuck” – Who wants to wake up next to Lester? *gag* I’ve already expressed that I’m not liking this season because they’ve gotten so far away from what made this show interesting in the beginning. One thing that I do like is the relationship that has grown between Sarah and Casey. John really watches out for her, not in a fellow spy kind of way, but a big brother kind of way. This week Sarah has to save Chuck from the Belgian which means going all Tomb Raider in Thailand. This is probably the least mount of Chuck in an episode of “Chuck”, and possibly the coolest that Sarah’s ever been. Between Awesome treating the nasty diseases of the Nerd Herd and Morgan going after Chuck sans bullets, it’s pretty darn funny. This was without question Yvonne Strahovski’s finest performance. She kicked ass, she cried, she did it all. I’m gonna say this is the best ep of the season.

“The Event” – I’m not quite sure why I’m still watching this show. It started out strong with all the mystery, but now we know. Aliens are not what I was looking to get into. Plus, the story just seems to be getting weaker. All the things that it had going for it in the first few episodes have withered away. So disappointing as I wanted this to be great vehicle for Jason Ritter. There are so many terrific actors in this show that I think will be dragged down for being a part of it. I can’t be the only one that feels this way since their ratings have been going down every week. NBC announced that after next week, it will be on hiatus until after the new year. It sounded a bit like punishment for performing poorly, but this is the type of show that needs to play back to back to back anyway. Remember when “Lost” has reruns tucked in between the new eps. That didn’t work out so well. Haven’t we learned our lesson?

“Hawaii Five-O” – God Damn, Alex is hot! They should work in more shirtless scenes for him. Two in the first half hour ain’t bad. We’re on episode ten and I still have to let the opening titles play so that I can listen to the theme song. I dare you to listen to that brass and not hum along. How ridiculous is Jin clothes lining a guy with a hose and that fight when McGarrett takes down his target? Did you see that two legged kick to the chest? I’m sure there is a cooler name for it, but I couldn’t tell you what it is. I’ll take the corny, because so far, I’ve been entertained.

Monday Continued...Plus Some of Tuesday

“Chuck”- I’m really disappointed with this season. It’s lost its edge. All the reasons this show used to be so great have all withered away. Yeah, there’s the occasional chuckle, but it’s not even that funny, let alone exciting. I started watching because it wasn’t just a show about spies. It was a show about a guy that’s not a spy and doesn’t want to be a spy and doesn’t know how to be a spy. That was funny…and sweet. I still want to have Zachary Levi’s babies but not sure that I’ll stick around for season five if there is one.

“The Event”- Continues to intrigue me but there is less excitement and action in this week’s ep. Plus it wasn’t on last week. I feel like it’s lost some momentum and NBC agreed. They are going to finish airing the first thirteen installments and will hold off on the rest until January. If they’re smart, they’ll be sure to air them all back to back. It’s a “Lost” situation. Come on people. Didn’t we learn anything from ABC?

“Weeds” – What a way to end a season! Somehow the finale crept up on me. The Botwin/Newman clan is getting ready to start over in Copenhagen when things go awry. Esteban finally catches up with Nancy. Who would have thought that plan c involved giving herself up to the cops for Pilar’s murder? Poor Stevie/Avi. What a family he was born into. Season 7 should be interesting. Did you ever think Nancy Pants would make it to season 7 after Agrestic burnt down? I miss Celia and Conrad. Maybe they can find a way to go back to the new Regrestic. Maybe? No?

“Raising Hope” – Holy crappers. This show gets funnier and funnier. This week, Burt has to face the music for being a sex offender so that Hope can go to preschool. His crime, nailing his fifteen year old gf in a car when he was seventeen and then marrying her. I find it adorable that Virginia and Burt have only ever been with each other and are still hot and heavy. Cloris Leachman is ridiculous as ever as Maw Maw. If you aren’t watching this show, WHAT THE F ARE YOU WAITING FOR???!!!!!!!!!

“Parenthood” – I feel bad that I don’t blog about this show often because I really like it. Bonnie Bedelia was especially great this week. Old people have marital problems too! I love that so many “Friday Night Lights” alum are showing up. If you’re not watching and you’re a Nielsen family, tune in now and then so it’s not cancelled…please?

“Sons of Anarchy” – I cried as I watched Jacks follow that couple carry his child through the market. Hold his child. Love his child. He just watched, thinking maybe he is better off. Logically he’d be right, but I found myself thinking “go get your boy!” This is Sons and a happy family is not meant to be. Jimmy wasn’t going to let that happen. I cried again as Jacks placed the dead woman next her husband and placed her hand on his. I want this show to go on for many seasons, but at the same time I want Jacks to get out. I want him to take Abel, Tara and the new baby and start over. I want him to live the life his father dreamed he’d have. But now, who knows if that will even be possible. They leave us on a cliffhanger  one episode before the season finale. Does Salazar kill Tara? From the previews, it looks like maybe she kills him. Is it Tuesday yet?

It's Getting Colder Outside, But Hotter In My Living Room!

“Burn Notice” is back, baby! Part dos of season four premiered tonight. The ultimate spy, Michael Westen wakes up in the hospital after being shot by Jesse in the finale. Fiona is a bitch as usual, but that’s just how she loves. And we love her for it. Just as the Impala is a character in “Supernatural”, the Charger is a character on “Burn Notice”. If you haven’t figured it out by now, I’m a sucker for motorcycles and muscle cars. I love that not only do I get to see Jeffrey Donovan play Michael Westen each episode, he’s also another character, whoever the job calls for. He’s pretty damn good at it. I was unsure when they first brought on Coby Bell as Jesse, the spy that Michael burned. It was time to shake things up, but I also miss the old team. It is pretty amusing to watch Jesse and Fi play a couple, especially when they’re fighting. This episode’s serial killer was super creepy, but what disturbed me more was Jesse’s reaction to him. I won’t spoil it for you. Wish there was a little more screen time for Sharon Gless and Bruce Campbell. Well, if I can’t see them, at least I can see the uber cool Michael Weston. Damn, he can wear a suit. Thank you Mama Westen for the shades to accessorize. If you want witness the coolness, tune in every Thursday at 10pm on USA or start from the beginning with Netflix.

http://www.usanetwork.com/series/burnnotice/

Stay tuned....

"Undercovers" Goes Under

NBC has pulled the plug on the “Undercovers” (aka Black Spies). I dropped it a few weeks ago. It was ok, but not good enough to pull me back every week. Apparently, having a gorgeous cast doesn’t cut it these days. NBC will air the remaining episodes in case you feel the need to drool over Boris Kodjoe some more. “Outlaw” and “Undercovers” are the only new shows that NBC has cancelled. It actually ordered nine more eps of the rest, including “The Event”, “Law & Order: Los Angeles” and oh dear God, why “Chase” and “Outsourced”???!!!!!!!

I fiiiiiiiiinnally caught up with this week's "Chuck"

I have to say that I'm a little disappointed with this season. They've taken the nerd out of the nerd herder. It was Chuck's dorkiness and lack of spy skills that made him so endearing. Now, we're just watching Chuck and Sarah struggle through their relationship and decide if they're ready to get married and start making babies like Ellie and Awesome. What makes that different from "Grey's Anatomy", a few explosions and gun fights? Ppppffffttttt. Morgan isn't even as funny as he used to be. Jeffster is rarely around. They've forgotten the comedy in action/comedy. I did however LOVE the nine foot marble statue of Awesome. And we thought we'd seen his chiseled abs.

Monday Fun Day

“The Event” – It iiiiiiiiiiisssssssssssssssssssss just like if “24” and “Lost” had a baby! This sci-fi/supernatural/action/drama has got me hooked. Laura Innes continues to give a brilliant and mysterious performance. I never really liked her as an actor before, but I do now. The missing girl friend is becoming less annoying and if it’s possible, Jason Ritter is getting more attractive in every way. What is with these people coming back to life? Any theories? Can’t wait to see what CC Jr.’s got up his sleeve.

“Hawaii Five-O” – Continues to be action packed and fun. I like these characters. McGarrett and Dano quibble like a married couple. McGarrett is a bastard, but the hot kind. Balthazar Getty guest stars as an escaped convict. Guess he’s not going back to “Brothers & Sisters” any time soon. I think I saw some familiar trees as they trekked through the jungle. I miss you "Lost"! *tear*

I'm behind on "House" and "How I Met Your Mother" since my DVR was a little overloaded. I promise I'll catch up this week.  Can't wait to watch "Chuck" onDemand tomorrow. Why won't my DVR record 3 things at once? WHYYYYYY???!!!!!!!!

Did the Six Shows I Was Excited About Returning Deliver?

“NCIS”

We pick up with Big Daddy Gibbs holding his own against Paloma, but his shop still gets shot all to hell. Skip four months down the line. Everyone has been under government protection while they track the cartel bitch. The team ends up tricking Rivera into shooting his own sister, killing two birds with a handful of automatic gunfire. In the last scene, Director Vance gets a text message from Ziva’s father who is also the head of the Israeli Mossad. It simply says, “I found him”. FOUND WHO?! Did I forget we were looking for someone?

Not quite as eventful as the finale, but a solid episode all in all. I am feeling like they need to shake things up a bit, maybe some new blood. Not sure what season eight will hold, but they’re gonna need something new to keep me interested.

“Dexter”

How could season 5 not start out with incredible emotion after the death of Rita in last season’s finale? As always, Michael C. Hall gives a fantastic performance as a shocked widower in the aftermath of his wife’s murder. To everyone around him, there is a lack of feeling, but really, it’s the most emotion Dexter’s ever felt. It’s scary how good Hall is. And Jennifer Carpenter. I swear, her performance gets better every season.

The guys at work (meaning Quinn, big surprise) are slightly suspicious that Dexter might have killed Rita. You really shouldn’t say “it was me” after you report your wife’s murder. Deb’s doing all the funeral planning in between doodling Quinn on Dexter’s kitchen floor. The kill at the end is more brutal than usual. It’s done in rage to release what he’s been feeling since Rita’s death. It’s a stark change from the planned, precision killings of researched victims. The scenes for the coming season look terrific. Can’t wait to see what they’ve got in store. This premiere gets a big thumbs up from me.

“HIMYM”

Lily and Marshall start trying to make a bambino, but something is getting in the way…..Marshall’s dad. Is anyone else creeped out at Dauber from “Coach” being Marshall’s father. Just doesn’t sit right. Anyway, Lily doesn’t like papa-in-law bein’ all up in their baby makin’ biz and who can blame her? Robin is a hot mess after her break up with Don. If I ever get so broken up over a guy that I have week old Cheetos in my hair, you have permission to stab me with a fork. High Six…….

“House”

Good, not great. Didn’t live up to last year’s premiere, but not many episodes could. There are some very tender moments between Cuddy and House. We’ve been waiting a long time for this. It cuts straight through you when she tells him that he’s the most incredible man she’s ever known and that he will always be the most incredible man she’s ever known. When he finally breaks down and says I love you, uuugghhh. Cuddy’s got this look, this regretful look. House is the one in the end that says what we all know but are hoping the writers will ignore, that Cuddy could never be with a man like him. A mother could never have a real relationship with a man like him. A man like him is severely f-ed up, but we still hope that someone will love him and that he’ll love back. We also hope to figure out where the hell Thirteen went and if she’s coming back. We’ve lost way too many cast members in the last two seasons. I didn’t like her at first, but she did grow on me after a while.

“Bones”

The team is back together! Cam’s job is on the line, so Caroline calls in the cavalry. Booth comes home from Afghanistan where he met a hot journalist. Bones and Daisy return from Maluku where they failed to find the missing link. Hodgins and Angela jet in from gay Paris. Sweets quits playing piano for shoppers and Brennan entices Wendell to leave his school bus mechanic job to rejoin the crew.

The Bones Brigade solves not one, but two cases involving small children. They all decide to stay, which is a good thing because Hodgins and Angela’s baby is going to need all its aunts and uncles. Yes, that’s right….ANOTHER BABY is on the way. Looks like this television season is turning out to be the Year of the Baby.

Very happy to have the gang back. One thing you can say about “Bones” is that it hasn’t diminished after being on the air for five seasons. The cases are just as fascinating and the relationships are more complex and interesting than ever. Let’s see what trouble they get into this year.

“Chuck”

Linda Hamilton is Chuck’s Mom…and she kicks ass???!!!!!! Turns out that Mama Bartowski didn’t abandon her kiddies. She was a spy captured by the Russians. What What?  Looks like this season will either be hunting down mommy dearest or maybe even working with her *excited*. Hopefully all of Chuck’s powers aren’t in his locks because he new cut is slightly boring and little too grown up. I don’t think I like Chuck and Sarah as a couple, the sexual tension was better, not that it could last this long. As much as I love them, they aren’t Bones and Booth. Something had to happen eventually, just wondering if it might be time to introduce a third party to shake things up. Got a nice little visit by Harry Dean Stanton as the repo man. Amazing! The Castle is rebuilt and so is the Buy More….as a full on CIA cover. Seriously? I totally want a ride in the Buy More/Castle chute. Oh, and……..A baby Awesome is on the way!

Do You Want to Get "UnderCovers"?

My sole reason for checking out this show is J.J. Abrams. You know I’ll watch anything that man touches. So…….Major Dad (Gerald McRaney) begs two ex-CIA agents, husband and wife Steven and Samantha Bloom to return to duty. Samantha’s former partner is in a bit of trouble, so the couple takes a break from their catering business to go undercover again. BTW, the two of them are smokin’ hot. Boris Kodjoe plays Steven. I’ve got a couple of friends that would cut off an arm just to be near him (Yes….EB and MS, I’m talking about you) Gugu Mbatha-Raw is Samantha. Seriously, she didn’t think about changing her name when she got into show business? I guess when you’re that ridiculously gorgeous, you don’t have to.

Super spy couple head to Europe to rescue Leo Nash who’s been captured. Oh, and it’s suspected that he’s a double agent. There’s always a double agent.  We see a little torture, blah blah blah. Throw in some fancy cars, gadgets, half a dozen countries and a very funny/chatty jr. agent that holds Steven as his god. Some Russian dudes want a flash drive with government info on it that Nash hid. There’s a fight, a guy gets stabbed in the foot, good times. The Blooms rescue Nash and bring him on home.

Still not sure about Steven, but Samantha I like. Any woman that can fire a rocket launcher, one handed while driving a car is cool with me.

Abrams brings back familiar, well not so much faces, but names. Michael Bonvillain shot the pilot, Mary Jo Markey cuts and Josh Reims produces. J.J. wrote and directed the pilot himself. It’s got a very rich (not money rich) and grand feel to it.

This is NBC’s second spy show (the other being “Chuck” *sigh*). The difference is that “Chuck” is nerdy/sweet funny and “UnderCovers” is cool/sexy funny.

Favorite new word: Sexpionage

Wednesdays at 8pm on NBC

http://www.nbc.com/undercovers

Stay Tuned….

Does “Hawaii Five-0” Sink or Swim?

What could be better than Norman Reedus sporting an Irish accent with the beautiful Hawaiian landscape in the first scene of the pilot?! I think I had a dream like that once, but we probably shouldn’t talk about that right now. I’ll tell you what’s better. Explosions and men repelling from helicopters. Ok, so that’s not better, but it’s pretty f-ing cool. Oh, and Buffy fans, you get to see James Marsters play a baddie, but just for a couple of scenes.

Like everyone else, I’m wondering if this is the Alex O’Laughlin show that will survive. O’Laughlin plays Det. McGarrett, trying to avenge the death of his father. Daniel Dae Kim (always Jin in my heart) is Det. Chin Ho Kelly. The super cool Scott Caan is Det. Daniel “Danno” Williams. The crew is rounded out by everyone’s favorite Cylon, Grace Park as Kona Kalakaua. Secret….She wasn’t actually my favorite Cylon, but she plays another kick ass woman. Props for that.  

The opening titles are quick, cool, modern and use the original theme song. Just the way I like them. Their promos were great. I couldn't drive anywhere in LA without seeing a beautifully drenched cast member on a billboard or bus shelter.The gorgeous Hawaiian backdrop makes my heart ache for “Lost”. I’m still in mourning and haven’t been able to erase the finale from my DVR….. but, back to the show in question. There’s a mix of shaky handheld camera work/odd angles that can be awkward at times and your standard procedural shots. We do get some witty dialog, but not an over abundance. If you’re looking for action, this may be the show for you as there is an explosion, chase or fight in every segment.

Does this show have what it takes to be better than every other procedural on television? I’m not sure yet, but I do think it will be on for a little while. It’s cool enough (with a sexy enough cast) to get a slightly younger audience, but standard enough for the old folks. Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci are riding the wave in Hollywood right now, so they could be just what this show and CBS needs. Are you ready to get wet?

Mondays at 10pm on CBS

http://www.cbs.com/primetime/hawaii_five_0/

Stay Tuned….

Series I Picked Up Over the Summer

Over the summer, I picked up a number of shows. Some are still running, others have met their end. In any case, you can check out past episodes OnDemand and/or Netflix (and Watch Instantly).

“Robin Hood” (BBC….Cancelled)

When this show first premiered, I watched the pilot and turned it off after 10 minutes. I liked the promos and it seemed like a good spin on an old tale, but I remember the dialog being horrendous. While looking on Netflix Watch Instantly for a new series to get into, I decided to give it another shot. One thing that is true about me is that I have to be in the right mood at the right time to get into a show. It could take a few years, like with this one. Turns out, this show is f-ing FUN! It’s humorous and action packed, plus it’s stacked with very attractive people. Alan A Dale, I LOVE YOU!!!!!

Robin’s gang fights for the little guy against the Sheriff of Nottingham (a role that is intentionally overacted by Keith Allen, which sometimes makes you want to throw a shoe at the TV). Marian uses her influence with Guy of Gisborne (the Sheriff’s right hand man played by Richard Armitage) to help Robin played by Jonah Armstrong.

Yes, it can be corny at times, but for me, it was very addictive. I had marathons for the first two seasons and was in agony waiting for the third on DVD. Now, all three seasons are on Watch Instantly. “We are Robin Hood!”

“Pushing Daisies” (ABC…Cancelled)

I remember seeing the billboards for this show when I first moved to L.A. and thought it sounded like the dumbest show. And I like supernatural, sci-fi, weird stuff. After many people telling me how great this show was for a couple of years, I finally gave it a chance. I LOVED IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The mix of humor, fantasy, noir and pie is a winning recipe. There is a sweetness about each character that makes you fall in love with them.

Lee Pace and Anna Friel play Ned and Chuck. Ned the pie maker has the capability of touching the dead and bringing them back to life, but when he touches them for a second time, they croak again. As children, Ned was secretly in love with Chuck. So….when lonely tourist Charlotte Charles was killed on a cruise, Ned had to bring her back. Pace and Friel are accompanied by Chi McBride, a P.I. that Ned partners with to solve cases, Kristen Chenoweth, a pie waitress who is hopelessly in love with Ned and Chuck’s shut-in aunts played by Swoosie Kurtz and Ellen Greene. There is an endearing quality to this show that makes it a must see. It was cancelled after only 2 seasons, but you can see them both on Neflix Watch Instantly. 

“Primeval” (BBC…Season 4 coming in 2011)

In this show, scientists study “anomalies” which are like big gateways to other places in time….namely prehistoric. Dinosaurs and other creatures that may or may not have actually existed come through these anomalies terrorizing England. Douglas Henshall plays Nick Cutter, a professor of paleontology studying the anomalies. He is accompanied by his team: teaching assistant/partner in crime Stephen played by James Murray, student and uber cute dorky kid Connor, personified by Andrew Lee Potts and lizard lady Abby, incarnated by Hannah Spearritt. Adventures are had by all as they are chased by ginormous creatures leading them back through the anomalies to make England a Dino-Free Zone. Season 3 a had shake up in the cast. I won’t spoil anything, but Jason Flemying of Snatch and Layer Cake joins our dorky-in-a-sexy-way scientists. Seasons 1-3 are available on Netflix Watch Instantly. They haven’t released an airdate for season 4 on BBC America, but it will premiere in the U.K. in January 2011.

“Chuck” (NBC….Season 4 premieres Sept. 20^th!)

I finally picked up this action/comedy after everyone I know told me I needed to be watching it. Soooo glad I did. Chuck is dork (in the very hottest way, played by Zachary Levi) that works for the Buy More Nerd Herb (think Best Buy Geek Squad). When his ex best friend from Standford, who is now a spy sends him a very special email, Chuck downloads a CIA super computer into his brain. The original super computer is destroyed, leaving the hot dork with all the government secrets. The CIA sends super sexy spy  Sarah Walker (Yvonne Strahovski) and the NSA sends dangerous and grumpy John Casey (Adam Baldwin) to protect Chuck/The Intersect.

Hilarity and action ensue as this gangly, sweet guy tries to fit in as one of the spies. The first season is best as Chuck is naïve when it comes to the spy game…..and is falling for super sexy spy Sarah. He also has to keep his spy life a secret from best friend Morgan, sister Ellie and her man Captain Awesome. The show definitely evolves the longer Chuck is a spy, as it should. I’m not sure where they are going to go for the upcoming 4^th season, but I can’t wait to find out. If you are looking for a show that is light, fun, and action packed, check out “Chuck”. You can get it on DVD or Blu-Ray from Netflix. The new season starts tomorrow! Woo Hoo! 

“Friday Night Lights” (NBC….Season 5 premieres Oct. 27^th!)

Anyone that knows me probably knows that I don’t like football which is why I was hesitant to watch this show. After all the critical acclaim, I decided to give it a shot. I was instantly addicted. It’s all about the relationships and what goes on around the football. Yes, the games are a big part, but it’s more about the players and their families. The competition keeps you on the edge of your seat, but so does the drama.

Coach Eric Taylor (brilliantly portrayed by Kyle Chandler) leads the Dillon Panthers, a high school football in Texas aka the Holy Land of football. His wife Tami (Connie Britton) is the school guidance counselor and his teenage daughter is dating the quarterback. I like this show because it’s down to earth. It’s dramatic at times, but mostly sweet, touching and earnest. Characters that you hate at first grow on you (I’m talkin’ about you Tim Riggins!) You quickly become invested in these kids’ futures. Eric and Tami have the marriage that I hope I’ll someday have. Not only is this a great show, but it’s a family show. Even my mom would watch it. You can check out the first three seasons on Netflix Watch Instantly. The forth is only on DVD/Blu-Ray which I am feverishly awaiting…so no spoilers please! The new and final season starts October 27^th on NBC and DirecTV.