Initial Impressions - New Fall Dramas

I'm no expert, I just know what I like. Take it or leave it. 

"666 Park Avenue" - ABC is now full on in the supernatural genre. It's a little soapy. It's a little thriller. It's a little devil at the crossroads. The biggest draw for me was Terry O'Quinn. His guest spots on "Hawaii Five-0" haven't satisfied my withdrawal from "Lost" and John Locke. Glad to see him in a killer role he can sink his teeth into. In my opinion, O'Quinn always raises the bar. Hope everyone else can meet him there. That being said, still not sure about this one yet. Obviously I've got a crush on Terry and Dave Annable's not too shabby, but I haven't decided on the female lead yet. Not loving her. There's a fine line with shows like this. They can be either really engaging or over the top. Please refer to "Supernatural" as an example of the former. ABC - Sundays at 10/9c

"Elementary" - I almost didn't give it a try. Masterpiece's "Sherlock" is an all-time favorite. How could I possibly love anyone else as much as Benedict Cumberbatch in this legendary role (even though I heart Jonny Lee Miller)? And Watson as a woman? I consider myself a bit of a feminist, but when they cast Lucy Liu, I was a bit put off. Never been a huge fan. Guess what. It works. I actually enjoyed the first episode. Sherlock is a tattoo covered addict living off of Daddy's money and Watson is his sober companion. Decent way to update the story. I guess it's the character that's hooked me. It's definitely got potential and I think it'll fit in on The Eye. Are you Sherlocked?
CBS - Thursdays at 10/9c

"Last Resort" - Shawn Ryan has won my heart back. Haven't been a fan of his shows since "The Shield" but I have very high hopes for this one. Even though it's no where near the same genre, I had that Lost feeling. Maybe it was the tropical setting or maybe.... just maybe, ABC's got something golden here.  I love shows that really make you think about morality and ethics. Shows like this ask the questions that hopefully we'd never have to answer in our own lives, but it's eye opening to discuss (in a safe place, like crowded around the water cooler). In the opening ep, a submarine crew must decide whether or not to follow orders to fire a nuclear missile. Andre Braugher is perfectly cast as leader, giving a very powerful performance. Slightly reminiscent of President Palmer. Two thumbs way up.  ABC - Thursdays at 8/7c

"Revolution" - Survival stories make great drama. Whether there is a worldwide black out, a plague, or zombies, it's fascinating to watch what people will do to stay alive. I'm crossing my fingers on this one. I love nearly everything J.J. Abrams touches and Eric Kripke is the creator of "Supernatural" which if you couldn't tell, I'm a giant fan of. Unfortunately, recent Emmy winner Giancarlo Esposito is the only cast member I like....and he's the bad guy! I'll keep trying, but this one might have to up the ante to win me over.
NBC - Mondays at 10/9c

 "Vegas" - Michael Chiklis! Michael Chiklis! Michael Chiklis! Ok, I got that out of my system. Soooo Michael Chiklis is in this show. So is Dennis Quaid. Baby Vegas is the backdrop for this true story of lawman vs. mobster. I'm not sure yet. Obviously I want to like this show, but it's very CBS at least as of the first episode. Seems like my mom would like it, which means it's got a G rating compared to the television I usually watch. There's definitely potential. The early days of Sin City could provide some very seedy storylines if CBS is willing to go there. My general feeling is that they tend to hold back. To not offend their core demographic. I can imagine what HBO or even FX would do with this story. It's oooozing drama. I may not be your core demographic, CBS, but please offend me. CBS - Tuesdays at 10/9c

I'm a gritty drama fan. More "Sons of Anarchy" than "Law & Order". The majority of the television I watch is on cable and premium channels, but these could be some good network additions. What do you think? Early favorites?

Random Musings of a TV Addict

The older I get, the more I procrastinate. I guess to get myself back in the swing of writing, I'm just going to put down some random thoughts about television in the new year.

"House" is coming to an end after eight seasons. It's the only show that I can remember hitting it's prime in season 6. I'm a little behind due to Monday night traffic on my DVR, but I hear last week's ep was one of the series' best. As of right now, my opinion is that the season 6 premiere where House is in the mental hospital is the best episode of the entire series. How often can you say that? With the departure of key cast members, it feels right that it ends. Just hope they make it satisfying. 

Idris Elba wins the Golden Globe! These two seasons of "Luther" have been some of the best hours television ever. No, I'm not exaggerating. If you haven't seen Elba's performance, find a ruler or stick like object and smack your hand. You deserved that.

I wasn't sure about "New Girl"after watching the pilot, last fall. It was funny, but there was too much quirk. The writers have since toned it down and focused on the interaction of these four Los Angeles roommates. Result - once a week (when there aren't reruns) I nearly pee my pants and/or hyperventilate from laughing so hard. If you are 17ish - 35 I highly recommend it. It's a bit too hip and young for the old folks.

"Justified" is back. Once again, I hope this will be the year that Walton Goggins is recognized for his amazing talent. Figured it would be hard to top last year's banner season with Margo Martindale but season 3 is well on it's way. One thing I can count on besides great guest stars like Neil McDonough, Jere Burns, Todd Stashwick, and James Le Gros is that I will always be surprised.

"NCIS" just celebrated 200 episodes. Quite a feat. I've been asked by non watchers how the hell a run of the mill procedural has stayed on the air so long. My answer - the wonderfully dysfunctional family dynamic unlike any other on television. No one watches "NCIS" for the weekly case, it's the characters and their interaction. Oh, and Mark Harmon's hair.

"The Fades" airing on BBC America's Supernatural Saturdays is my new favorite other worldly series. They've got a new take on ghosts - body regeneration. With a complex mythology unlike any I've come across before "The Fades" has me hooked. Only problem is that there are only six eps in the first season and it's uncertain whether there will be a second. Think "Skins" meets "Supernatural".

MTV is back on my radar (for the first time since I was 14). I raved about "Awkward" last summer and now another dirty scripted comedy has caught my eye. Based on the novel of the same name "I Just Want My Pants Back" follows a group of twentysomethings in NYC being very naughty and looking for something more. I'm not sure raunchy is the best descriptor, but MTV sure doesn't pull any punches on this one. Only seen the first 2 eps, but I'll be back for more.

The other reason I haven't been blogging lately is because I joined Twitter a few months back. It's so much easier to tweet random thoughts than to wait until I've got enough to say to fill a blog post. If you're already on there, follow me @TVMaven and if you aren't but love television as much as I do, join. It's so great to follow my favorite show runners, actors and other bloggers. I find articles, interviews and a ton of other random links that I wouldn't have on my own. This is a great age for fans. Take advantage.

PaleyFest's NBC Fall Preview Party

On Thursday night, The Paley Center hosted the NBC Preview Party. What was extra cool, was that it was totally free (unless you got screwed by the public parking garage like I did) and there were goodies. The night was kicked off by a viewing of "Whitney" and a panel discussion with the stars and producers. Following the panel, was a showing of the five more brand spankin' new NBC shows. Here's my take...

"Whitney" - Some of you may already know Whitney Cummings from "Chelsea Lately" or a couple celebrity roasts. She's been doing stand up for years and this fall TV season, she's got two new shows. This one is autobiographical and she's also the creator and producer of the CBS comedy "2 Broke Girls". In "Whitney", she and her boyfriend of 3 years (played by Chris D'Elia aka stoner Stankowski of Glory Daze) are in a committed relationship with no plans to get married. They are accompanied by four pals. Two are engaged and giddy. One is a disgusting bachelor on the prowl and the last is a drunk, bitter, divorcee (she's my favorite).

I love the billboards around town. They're so funny, but the actual show left something to be desired. It's multicamera and shot in front of a live audience. During the panel, everyone expressed how proud they were of that fact, but I failed to see why it made the show better for the viewer. I totally get that it provides an energy for these stand ups turned actors, but so much about this series from the audible laughs to the cheesy lines is cliche. I love D'Elia, but he had a smile on his face after every funny line he delivered, which made it less funny for me. My final verdict, I couldn't stand it. Unless you're already a huge fan of Whitney Cummings, skip it. I'm sure you can find something else to watch or do on Thursdays at 9:30.

"The Playboy Club" - It's the early '60s. You're in Chicago. You want to look at sexy ladies. Where do you go? Why the playboy club of course...if you've got a key. Eddie Cibrian does, or should I say hot shot lawyer Nick Dalton does. In the pilot he helps a new bunny who's gotten into some trouble. The killing kind, not the baby kind. The shocking violence that transpired was very abrupt, occurring in the first few minutes. That pretty much took me out of it.

Although the costumes were gorgeous and the art direction superb, the acting left something to be desired. And the story.....really? It was melodramatic and soapy. If that's what you're looking for, go ahead and give it a try. But for me, it's a thumbs down. I could hardly wait for it to end, but maybe you're looking for some bunny tail on Mondays at 10pm.

"Up All Night" - Christina Applegate and Will Arnett play new parents without a clue in this new single camera comedy. Chris (Arnett) is getting used to being a stay at home dad while wife Reagan (Applegate) goes back to work for crazy talk show host, Ava (Maya Rudolph).

Very excited about this show. After finally getting into "Samantha Who" this summer, I'm definitely a big Christina fan and who doesn't love Will Arnett?! Plus, if you're over 25 you can most likely relate to this subject because you've either gone through it all or are fearing babies without handbooks. Check this one out....seriously. Wednesdays at 10pm.

"Prime Suspect" - Based on the highly successful British series starring Dame Helen Mirren, the American version features Maria Bello as a New York City Homicide Detective Jane Timoney. Jane is no ordinary cop. She takes an unorthodox approach in her investigations as she has more to lose being the only girl in an all boys club.

I like it! So far anyway. There are never enough strong, badass women on television so it's refreshing when you see one that carries a gun and makes no apologies for going after what she wants. Plus, her live in boyfriend is played by my dream boyfriend Kenneth Johnson (aka Lem on "The Shield" or Kozik on "SOA"). After seeing all the ads (Cop. An Attitude) and the first half of the pilot with Jane being all tough, I really liked that they showed her vulnerable side. It makes sense that someone fighting that hard would break down every now and then. I don't see too many men liking it but I'm hoping it will be hit with the ladies. Whether you're a Dick or a Jane, check it out on Thursdays at 10pm.

"Free Agents" - In another British import, Hank Azaria and Kathryn Hahn play Alex and Helen, coworkers at a Portland PR firm. Alex is divorced and missing his kids. Helen is still mourning her dead fiance after a year and drinking her way through it. They are both a hot mess, but like everyone else, just trying it figure it out. Unfortunately, sleeping together may have complicated things...or does it?

This one definitely has potential. I'm always interested in screwed up characters, so of course I like both leads. So great to see Hank Azaria and finally Kathryn Hahn is cast as a lead. For years, she's been the best friend and I've always thought she was too funny to just be the best friend. If you're a "Buffy" fan, you'll love seeing Anthony Head reprise his role as the out of touch boss. Give this one a try and let's see where it goes. Wednesdays at 10:30pm.

"Grimm" - Detective Nick Burkhardt is no ordinary cop. He's a decendent of the Brothers Grimm who were more than just fairly tale writers. They were supernatural profilers. It's now up to Nick to keep the evil supernatural creatures in check. Burkhardt is backed up by partner Hank Griffin (Russell Hornsby) and a reformed werewolf (Silas Weir Mitchell) who teaches Nick about the supernatural world.

I'm not sure yet. The Grimm world is beautifully shot, has great effects and made us jump in the first minute and a half, but there's something missing. I can't quite put my finger on it yet, but it needed a little something. Not crazy about the lead. David Guintoli didn't grab me the way a network lead should. I love Russell Hornsby, but his character really bothered me. The actual people in this supernatural world, don't seem real. The humans in a world full of creatures need to be relatable as they are our touchstone. Hopefully the writing will improve to match the cinematography. If you're into big bad wolves and other fairy tale creatures, check out "Grimm" Fridays at 9pm. Wait...does NBC really want it to succeed? Historically, Fridays are where shows go to die. Hmmmm......

Wish I could have made it to the other network preview parties. Maybe next year. In the meantime, hope this helps you decide which new NBC shows to check out. Keep an eye out for lots of reviews in the next few weeks as the new schedule unfolds.

True Blood Boiling

After much prodding, in the last few months I begrudgingly gave "True Blood" a try. As you might have noticed, I do love my supernatural elements, but there was something about this show that turned me off in its first three seasons. I decided to give it a shot as it is a favorite of several of my friends. Most fans seem to be obsessed and I was expecting to hate it, so it was a bit of a surprise when I found it to be so-so. Although I've kept watching, it just doesn't get my juices flowing the way it does everyone else (OK, except for when Eric is shirtless).

Tonight's episode written by creator Alan Ball, If You Love Me, Why Am I Dyin'? was in my opinion, the best of the series to date. Let's start out with the fact that my favorite character Eric Northman who is usually super cool and cold is an innocent little boy lost at the opening. I was downright giddy. He was so cute and childlike, a complete 180 from his badass 1,000 year old self. A nice change up, Mr. Ball.

Moving on, you've got Sam flirting with a much missed Tara (big surprise). Their "relationship" used to bother me, but now I like them together. Too bad Tara doesn't like boys anymore. Jason is still tied to a bed and having very bad things done to him by crazy panther people. Sookie visits Alcide (it's getting a little hot in here). Tommy is attempting to con his way through Bon Temps, Bill rejects advances by his lawyer, Lafayette gets himself kidnapped (AGAIN!) and Jess comes clean with Hoyt. That's one jam packed episode. I usually start to get a little bored at some point, but not tonight. I truly hope that we get to see much more of memory free Eric. It makes me very happy.

My roommate/fellow couch critic warned me that each season/book is better than the last. I disagree with that, but this has been the best episode so far. Let's hope this is the best season to date.

Who is your favorite character?

Oh, How I Love the Dire Wolf

I was maybe ten minutes into the second episode of "Game of Thrones" when I thought, it scares me how much I love this show already. I suppose that's a good sign. It was picked up after only one episode aired. So HBO agrees with me. Here are a few of the things I love about it....

*The relationship between Ned and his bastard son Jon Snow. How many soldiers bring their bastards home, raise them with their legitimate children and show them such love?

*The relationship Jon Snow and his younger siblings. It's such a pure brotherly love and children don't see legitimacy or not.

*The relationship between the King and Ned. The King has great respect for Ned and doesn't treat him as a lowly subject, but as an equal that just doesn't have a crown.

*Tyrion's insights into his family and the world for that matter. His dwarf-ness has given him a great perspective and he uses it.

*Despite the fact that Daenarys was pretty much sold to a barbarian by her brother, she's already learning how to take some power back. It may come little at a time, but I have hope that she'll figure out how

*The fantastical element that hasn't really show itself yet, but it's there.

Are you watching? Tell me what you like about HBO's new hit?

"Supernatural" Cast and Creative Team in Person *Yes, I Hyperventilated a Little*

This past Sunday, I attended PaleyFest's "Supernatural" panel at the Saban Theater in Beverly Hills. It was AMAZING! "Supernatural" is a show that I've become quite obsessed with in the last few years. You may not have been able to tell based on my past posts because I don't write about it very often. Honestly, writing about a show like this....in it's sixth season, is very daunting. My goal with this blog is turn viewers on to new shows, but in a series that is heavily entrenched in mythology and has a long and twisted backstory it is in a word, overwhelming. There is no possible way for me to summarize five and half seasons of awesomeness without giving away major plot points. Talking with my roommate and fellow SuperFan (aka Dean Girl), we both agreed that this is one of the few series that has consistently and effectively surprised us. They still throw us curve balls that make us come back week after week.

The WB turned CW show follows two brothers that hunt monsters. They drive a bad ass car and carry guns...oh and they're hot. If you haven't seen it, give the show one disc. The first season is the most episodical, but if you are open to the supernatural/fantasy/sci-fi genres, you'll probably like it. If it keeps you watching, it all pays off every single season thereafter. The mythology gets deeper and deeper and the brothers closer and closer.

Even writing now, I know that I can't possibly articulate the greatness of "Supernatural". It's something that you need to experience for yourself. Don't judge it because it's on the CW...or because it stars pretty boys...or because it's about things that go bump in the night. This show is truly about family and heroism. How many other television shows provoke debate on philosophy?

My aforementioned roommate and I have talked for hours debating the meaning of the soul, good vs. evil, and free will. This is was it does to you. And it's GREAT!

If you live in NY or LA and haven't been to a Paley Center event, do yourself a favor and go! Hearing stories from the set, regrets, favorite moments and how our favorite characters came to be was priceless. The seats were awesome by the way. What a beautiful theater. The only thing that would have made the day better would be getting a picture with the Brothers Winchester...and not getting a parking ticket afterward.

If you're even half interested, check out Season 1 on Netflix. This is definitely a show that you must watch in order, from the beginning.

You might like this series if you like "LOST", "Buffy the Vampire Slayer", "Angel", "Battlestar Galactica", "Hex" or "Being Human".

SHOUT OUT!

I just feel like giving a shout out to some of my favorite shows that are goin' strong.

"Raising Hope"
This is still my favorite new comedy of the season. There is yet to be an episode that doesn't insight side splitting laughter. Hope is just about the cutest baby I've ever seen on TV and her grandpa is ridiculously hot. Cloris Leachman is totally pulling a Betty White. If you're not watching, you totally should be. Catch up on Fox.com and watch live, Tuesdays at 9pm. You won't regret it.

"Being Human"
I mean the original and brilliant BBC series. Season three premiered this week on BBC America. I'm a little sad that our family of supernatural beings has left Bristol, but new adventures await in Wales. The possibility of Mitchell and Annie becoming a couple has me on edge a little. They're friends. I don't want that to change and what if it didn't work out. He can't leave her. She'd have no one. I'm very glad she's got her big comfy chair back. Guess we'll see what happens, Saturdays at 9pm on BBC America. Watch the season three premiere OnDemand.

"Southland"
If you live in Hollywood like I do, you totally appreciate the locations. At least three times an episode I recognize some place that I frequent. It's pretty cool. If you don't live in Hollywood, you can appreciate the terrific writing and acting. This season's biggest mind blower was the death of super hot Detective Nate Moretti played by Kevin Alejandro. Every single viewer was shocked and saddened by his departure, but damn did it make for a great story. Since then, Shawn Hatosy has upped his game. I didn't think he was that great on this show until the episode where Nate dies. There are only one 2 episodes left this season. Catch up at TNT.tv and watch Tuesdays at 10pm. Good luck to Kevin who'll be focusing on "True Blood".

"An Idiot Abroad"
If you've seen "The Ricky Gervais Show" on HBO or listened to the podcast, you're familiar with Ricky and Stephen Merchant's "friend" Karl Pilkington. Ricky and Stephen thought it would be funny to send their little round headed buffoon of a friend to see the Seven Wonders of the World. You see, Karl is a little small minded and believes everything he reads. This was their attempt to broaden his mind and laugh while he's tortured by foreign customs. I feel bad for Karl, but it is quite hilarious. Check it out on the Science Channel, Saturdays at 10pm.

"Law & Order: UK"
Just like everyone else, I am so sick of every reincarnation of the American version. But the Brits do it differently. First off, it's just entertaining to listen to the accents and see the differences in our legal systems. The storylines seem so much more interesting or maybe it's that the characters are just more likable. Whatever it is, I can't get enough of this Dick Wolf spin-off. Catch up OnDemand and watch Fridays at 10pm on BBC America.

Sunday Night Insights: Volume V

“Dexter”

 Despite their off-screen marriage, Michael C. Hall and Jennifer Carpenter have been able to keep their romantic chemistry from seeping onscreen into their sibling relationship. Until tonight that is. At least this is the first time I’ve noticed it. As Deb describes how the vigilantes must be in love and have “serious shit”, you could see the love in her eyes. Michael remained pretty brotherly, but Jennifer began to glow in her performance as she acted off of Michael. I suppose you could say she looked like that because she was thinking of her and Quinn, but it was like she kept trying to capture Michael’s gaze only he kept looking away. Never expected someone else to get the drop on Dexter. The only other time that’s ever happened is with his brother. Maybe Lumen is distracting him. Last week I said that no one will ever know Dexter the way she does. After thinking about it this week, I think that equates to love for these two. We’re definitely in for an action packed season finale next Sunday. How far do you think Dexter will go for Lumen?

“Boardwalk Empire”: Season Finale

 Tonight, the boardwalk goes dark after the Empire’s first dozen episodes. Margaret goes to see Nucky after seeing his wife and child’s gravestone. Nucky tells her the story of how his wife and child died. The monologue is moving and wonderfully delivered by Steve Buscemi. For me, it was his best performance of the season. It’s funny how he was the draw for this new series, but it was the supporting cast that exhibited such terrific acting week after week. Maybe I’m not giving him enough credit. I supposed his portrayal of Nucky was just more subtle than some of the other characters required. Just as the entire show was, the finale was slow and didn’t have a lot of bang (with the exception of the D’Alessio brothers). Normally, I’d have a problem with that, but it’s fitting and I’m still wanting more. As we wait for a new season, I’ll miss the decadence, the beauty of the costume and production design, the stunning cinematography and the music of another era. Hopefully HBO won’t keep us in suspense for long.

 “The Walking Dead”: Season Finale

 Our band of misfits running from zombies finally gets to the CDC. Unfortunately, they find one lonely doctor that’s about to blow his brains out. They take hot showers and get plastered. Can’t say that I wouldn’t need a drink if I’d been avoiding having my flesh eaten by a walking corpse for the last couple of months. The drama heightens as the generators run out of fuel and all living things are about to be destroyed. Is it better to die quickly or to take your chances? I can’t help but to always wonder what’s around the next corner. We already know that our folks from Georgia will find out since we’ve got twelve more episodes next season. The problem is that it has the potential to suck. Don’t get me wrong, I loved this the first season and found it to be very strong. BUT……..this week Frank Darabont announced that he’s gotten rid of the writing staff. All of season two will be written by freelancers. How exactly does that work? Can they possibly have the cohesiveness that is needed in a series? I don’t know the logistics, but it makes me veeeeeery weary. Mr. Darabont, please, surprise me and blow my mind.

Sunday Night Insights: Volume IV

“Dexter”

Good call bringing Jonny Lee Miller on to guest star. This weekend I watched the 2003 BBC miniseries Byron in which he was great. Now watching “Dexter”, it confirms that he only gets better with age.  Dexter screws with evidence again to get the DVD of Lumen being tortured. For some reason, she needs to watch it. The shot of the video reflecting in her eye was beautiful. Great shooting and directing. I’m surprised how much I’m liking Julia Stiles. Until now, I couldn’t stand her. Her performance is pretty good. Dex and Lumen visit the first victim, Emily. She recounts her torture and names the fifth bad guy. Love seeing Scott Grimes as the last of our torturous bastards. You may remember him as Malarky from Band of Brothers, but to me, he’ll always be David, the smart ass kid in my favorite Christmas movie, The Night They Saved Christmas. Yes, that’s right, the Jaclyn Smith 1984 made for TV movie. This was an especially suspenseful and dramatic episode. I found the ending to be emotional and beautiful. Lumen knows what Dexter is and she doesn’t think he’s a monster. My guess is that no one will ever know him as well as she does.

“Boardwalk Empire”

This was a big episode. One of my complaints has been that it moves too slow and not enough happens. That changed this week. Jimmy’s father is revealed and it surprised me. Plus, I knew his mother was young when she got knocked up, but 13?!!!! Damn, they were dirty back then. Dirty. Old. Man. I’ve always been on the fence when it came to Michael Pitt as an actor, but I’m really starting to think that this part was made for him. This week, Shea Whigham really stood out. Until now, hadn’t given him a second thought. He gave a greatly intense performance in the scene where he stands up to Nucky. He lays it all out, everything they know, but that hasn’t been said. Of course, Nucky punishes him for it. I even like him a little in it. Michael Shannon continues to blow me away every episode. Tonight was no exception. Damn, he is one complex character. All this was a terrific lead up to next week’s finale. Can’t wait. Retribution is coming.

“The Walking Dead”

The reason this show is so good is that it’s not just another horror flick. It’s about the people, the emotion. Laurie Holden gives a stirring performance as she mourns her sister and then puts a bullet in her head when the breath returns. This group of survivors holds tight to every bit of humanity that they can. That’s no easy feat when you’re running from zombies. I like Grimes’ radio messages to Morgan. They’re like his diary entries.  In case you didn’t hear me the first few times I said it, Bear McCreary is a brilliant composer. His music is moving and sorrowful, yet hopeful all at once. I had tears in my eyes as Jim made an unimaginable decision. I can’t say I’d do the same. Is hope on the horizon? Can we expect answers in next week’s season finale? I hope so. Tune in.

Sunday Night Insights: Volume III

“Dexter” – It’s very strange watching Dexter prep a room with someone else. How long before Lumen gives up his secret? I don’t want to see her die after all she’s been through. This is veeeerrrrrryy danger ous territory. P.S. Can they please drop Quinn down an elevator shaft already?

“Boardwalk Empire” – I have to say, Margaret’s character has become quite predictable. Still love Kelly McDonald, just sayin’. The little IRS dude, however did surprise me. Wishing there was more Michael Shannon in this episode, but I suppose if he has a large part every week, it would be a little too intense.

“Bored to Death” – I think season 2 is much funnier than the first. This first ten minutes of this week’s ep alone was hysterical. Talk about range in Ted Danson. Who knew Sam Malone could go from scaring the crap out of me in “Damages” to making me pee a little in laughter as the narcissistic, pot head, editor George Christopher. Have to love any episode that John Hodgman is in, especially when it involves slap fighting.

“Luther” – BRILLIANCE….for the fifth straight week in row. I do wish there was a bit more Alice, but in her absence, we’ve still got tons o’ drama. Neil Cross loves to push it past where we think evil can go. The twists and turns keep the audience invested and on the edge of their seats. This week, emotions run high and the bullets fly. The preview for next week’s conclusion looks un-fricken-believable!!!!!!! When people think I’m silly for spending so much time watching TV, this is what I point out to them.

“The Walking Dead” – Back to the human factor. We barely saw any walkers this week. It was all about the moral dilemma of leaving a man behind, lying and even spousal abuse. These interactions are great. They are human. They are real. Only three episodes left this season. I’m very interested to see where this all leads to.

This Week in Review: Volume II

“House” – Not sure how I feel about Amber Tamblyn’s arrival at Princeton-Plainsboro. Well, not Amber, so much as her character. Med student Martha M. Masters is a super brilliant young woman with staunch principals. She doesn’t believe in lying to patients, which is mostly why House fired her repeatedly. Masters is socially inept, which paired with her age, makes her an awkward addition to the team. I miss Thirteen, but I miss Cameron even more.

“In Treatment” – Sunil is definitely my favorite patient/episode this season. His accent is hypnotic. His pain is universal, even if you can’t directly identify with his situation. Loss, grief, denial. His story is the most interesting. Frances kinda bores me. It’s not that the writing isn’t good. I just have no interest in her. Maybe fans of Debra Winger like Tuesdays, but I could just as easily skip it. That’s the first time I’ve really thought that about any of the patients. I never really liked Mia, but I wanted to find out what she’d do. Jesse’s need to shock Paul kinda irritates me. This week’s ep was probably the best one for him. He was more naked and vulnerable. He barely even moved from his spot on the couch, unlike other sessions when he’s fidgeting and taking his phone out. Maybe I’ll grow to like him more. As for Paul’s treatment, don’t get me wrong, Amy Ryan is great. I love her as an actress, but I don’t like Paul being her patient. I MISS GINA!!! It used to bother me how Paul talked about his patients during his sessions, but somehow having his former supervisor treating him made it alright. Adele is younger, less experienced and doesn’t have the history with Paul that made his sessions with Gina more layered. So far, this is my least favorite season.

“Terriers” – Every passing episode cements its status as one of my top shows, not just out of out of the new shows this season. Donal Logue continues to impress me with his acting chops week after week. We watch him resist the urge to jump off the wagon while the love of his life/ex-wife walks down the aisle. How can you not root for him. Thankfully he is distracted by the slimy lawyer that threatens and kills people. Love, the dorks in the RV. Britt can cry on my shoulder any day.

“Bones”- Two words. Cougar. Cruise. Sweets being hit on by a bunch of old(er) ladies, funny. Booth being jealous. Funnier. Brennan telling young guys that she hasn’t yet hit her sexual prime. Hilarious. As much as I have loved this show for 5 seasons, I have a couple of problems. The dialogue seems to have been written by Captain Obvious and the product placement could be a teensy bit subtler.

“Grey’s Anatomy” – I’m glad I kept watching. Don’t get me wrong, it’s no “Terriers”, but it’s gotten interesting again. Christina quitting, a world leader on the table, Avery kicking Karev’s ass. That was my favorite. He’s so pretty and now he’s violent. Karev absolutely deserved several punches to the face. I’m surprised it hasn’t happened sooner. It is and isn’t surprising that everyone wants to rally around Christina to keep her in the program. She’s a bitch, but she’s one talented and driven bitch. I totally heart the new fire house apartment (with original oak floors).

“Blue Bloods” – Despite the horrible opening titles, I really like the look of this show. The lighting and camera movement is much better than you see on most procedurals (i.e. “Law & Order”). The family dynamic is great. It’s a good thing Jamie’s gf is just that and not a wife. I couldn’t stand her from the first time she popped up. What a ****. They faked me out thinking that the Blue Templar was going to be a real part of this episode. I’m feeling strung a long. It better pay off.

“Supernatural” – Soul-less Sam (SS) is now talking about himself in the third person. Not in that douchey way, but he’s acknowledging that there is old Sam and Soul-less guy. He’s rationally decided that he needs to go back to being the old Sam. I think that he sees how much Dean needs his brother and even though he doesn’t feel anything, he wants to give Dean what he needs. I want to know what’s going on with the civil war. They’ve got us so used to season long arcs, but haven’t let us in one this war. I want more Castiel!!! There are heavenly weapons out there! WTF, let’s end this thing.

“The Walking Dead” Gets Picked Up For a Second Season



After only 2 episodes have aired, AMC has renewed the show for a 13 ep second season. This more than doubles the first season, which was given 6. Good choice for AMC considering the premiere…on Halloween…brought in 5.3 million viewers. I guess nobody trick-r-treats anymore. Last nights follow up “Guts”, retained 4.7 million zombie lovers.  It’s always surprising to me how many people love the horror genre. I was just never that into it, but then again, I never liked sci-fi until “Firefly” and “Battlestar Galactica”. I guess it takes the right (well written) content to get you out of your comfort zone. The zombies will soon be seen overseas as well. AMC pre-sold the show through Fox International Channels. I have a feeling it will do extraordinarily well in Europe. Just a hunch. The SVP of Scripted Programming over at Fox International Channels, Sharon Tal Yguado was quoted as saying “The Walking Dead is a TV masterpiece on so many levels. We want at least 10 seasons, if not more”. I sincerely hope she is exaggerating. She might need that sarcasm/joking font. No program is good after 7, let alone ten seasons. That’s why we call them soap operas. If you haven’t already, catch up OnDemand or see the first episode on http://www.amctv.com/originals/The-Walking-Dead/, were you can also play a zombie killing game and enter to win a weekly contest for a walk on zombie role.

New episodes Sunday at 10pm on AMC.  Stay Tuned….

Sunday Night Insights: Volume II

“Dexter” - Jonny Lee Miller arrives on “Dexter”! I’ve been missing him since “Eli Stone” got canceled last year. Miller plays a motivational speaker name Jordan Chase. He’s probably one of the guys that kidnapped and tortured Lumen (Julia Stiles).They're doing pretty well with guest stars this year. I mean it's pretty hard to follow John Lithgow as a serial killer, but mixing it up with Maria Kennedy, Julia Stiles, and Jonny Lee Miller is pretty darn good.

“Boardwalk Empire” – I’m starting to feel like this show is going the way of “Mad Men”. It’s interesting and I like the storylines, but the pacing is agonizingly slow. I’m finding myself looking at the clock every five minutes. That being said, this week’s was the best episode in the last several. Loved the shot of Margaret at Nucky’s desk as the camera angles up her face and then down to see the ledger. Powerful shot and it spoke volumes about her situation. I also liked the writer’s trick of making us think that Van Alden is sending Jimmy Darmody’s money to his own wife for a surgery that will let her get pregnant, but actually, he sends it to the intended recipient, Mrs. Darmody. Does this man ever do anything selfish or wrong (other than beat himself)? I find him quite intriguing and well performed by Michael Shannon, but did you ever doubt? Not me.

“Luther” – At first, not quite as stirring as the first three episodes, but still bloody good. The scene where the killer’s wife realizes what her husband has done and breaks down….shivers. I felt myself gasp with her. What a great performance by Nicole Walker. Anglophiles may know her as Ruth from “MI-5”.  An equally creepy/terrifying performance by Rob Jarvis as the serial killer that’s weirdly turned on by hand bags. By now, we’re used to seeing Luther run after the bad guys, so it’s just as frustrating for the audience as it is for him when he’s confined to the station. You must watch this. I am not going to tell you the storyline or turn out, but DAMN! Talk about justice and revenge. Heartbreaking justice and revenge.

“The Walking Dead” – Chopping up zombies is dirty business. The sound department gets a gold star for this episode. It was Gag-er-ific! The second episode, suitably titled “Guts”, was much more zombie-ish than the first. The moral issues didn’t really come about until the end when they left a man handcuffed to a roof. It’s still got me, but I hope they go back to the human aspects moving forward. I am excited to see Norman Reedus in next week’s ep. At this point, I feel like this could be something really great or turn out horribly bad. It’s hard to tell. I’ll let you know when it goes south for me.

"The Walking Dead" Walks Into A Spot On My Schedule

From the writer and director of The Shawshank Redemption and The Green Mile, comes a new AMC original series about zombies, yes I said zombies. The show is based on a series of graphic novels by Robert Kirkman who also serves as writer and producer. Frank Darabont penned and helmed the pilot episode “Days Gone Bye”. Brit, Andrew Lincoln plays Deputy Sheriff Rick Grimes, a man just trying to survive. You may remember Lincoln as Mark in Love Actually. You know, the guy that was is love with Keira Knightly and knocked on her door with the boombox and posterboard professing his love. Probably my favorite part of the movie. Annnnnnyway, now he’s donning a new southern accent.

We open with the small town sheriff’s deputy making his way through deserted, overturned and burnt out cars to find gas. He comes across a little girl, only to find that she’s a….wait for it…..ZOMBIE! Single shot to the head.

Rewind……Deputy Grimes and his partner get called to a high speed chase. $#!& goes down and he gets shot. Ala 28 Days Later, he wakes up from a coma in an abandoned hospital with zombies running loose. It’s been weeks. I have to say, the zombie eaten human remains looked pretty realistic….or so I would assume. He makes his way out of the hospital only to find dozens of dead bodies outside and over the hill is an abandoned military helicopter. What the F happened here? Grimes returns to his empty home, sobbing for his wife and child that he must only assume the worst has happened to.

A father and son find Grimes and after determining that he’s not a “walker”, take him in and explain what’s been happening. He sees for himself that night as the walkers come close and the boy’s mother tries to get into the house they are squatting in. There’s a shot that pulls in to the door knob turning…..love it! There’s that cinematic touch that I knew Darabont would bring.

Grimes brings his new pals to the station where they take much needed hot showers and gun up. They part ways. Father, Morgan uses his ammunition to draw his wife zombie to the house so that he can put her down, but he can’t bring himself to do it. Grimes takes out the best looking zombie that I’ve ever seen in the park. She has half a body and has dragged herself through grass. It’s actually more sad, than it is horrifying.

Grimes is on his way to Atlanta where he believes his family to be. He uses the radio emergency frequency to reach anyone that might be out there. On the other end is his partner who’s with Grimes’ wife and child. And when I say with his wife, I mean with his wife.   Grimes stops to ask for gas at a farm house. What he finds inside is unsettling. The family chose to take their own lives before being bitten (or possibly just after). To avoid having to stop for gas again, Grimes takes their horse. It’s quite an image watching him ride down the street with the shotgun slung over his shoulder. Oh how I love a shotgun.

He was told that there was a refugee center in Atlanta. Really…..it’s crawling with walkers. Unfortunately, the horsey gets eaten. Grimes gets away, crawing into a tank. Yes a military tank. A voice comes through the radio. Someone knows he’s there. We are left with a great shot that pulls out from the street as the walkers flock to the horse carcass and the tank.

The opening credits are washed out images against a dark and suspenseful theme song. I like it. One of my favorite television composers brings his talent to this project, Bear McCreary. You may know his drums from a little show called “Battlestar Galactica”. This is a much more subdued, sorrowful sound. It helps to give this horror show more legitimacy for those that don’t care for zombies and the like. Which is me. There are two zombie movies that I’ve ever liked, Shaun of the Dead and 28 Days Later. Frank Darabont is winning me over with this one. It’s not just a story about zombies. It’s a story about the human will to survive.

Darabont got some of the best in the business on board for this very unique take on the horror genre. My favorites include writers Charles Eglee, Adam E. Fiero, Glen Mazzara, and Jack LoGiudice. Among other alumni from “The Shield” are directors Gwyneth Horder Payton and Guy Ferland. So far, this seems like a recipe for zombie/drama goodness. Even if you aren’t a fan of horror or zombie movies, give this pilot a shot and then decide. It’s not your average, cheesy, laughable horror movie. This new series is going to redefine horror, not just on television, but on film as well. WATCH IT!!!

Sundays at 10pm on AMC

http://www.amctv.com/originals/The-Walking-Dead/

Stay Tuned….

This Week in Review

“How I Met Your Mother” – Jennifer Morrison joins the cast! She is Ted’s newest love interest. Ted gets to design the new Goliath National Bank Headquarters, only they want to use a historic architectural landmark. Enter Zooey (Jennifer Morrison…Cameron from “House”). Meanwhile…Lily and Marshall are still working on a mini Eriksen. Lily and Robin discuss the tiny penis of the guy Robin is dating who is also a friend of Marshall’s…in front of Marshall. He can’t stop thinking about it, especially when they are on a double date. Cue the hilarious dialogue. So, could Zooey be the mother? We’ll see.

“House” – Cuddy convinces House to watch Rachel and he lets her eat a dime. Who would have thought that House would make a bad babysitter. House and Wilson spend the day attempting to retrieve the coin. After Chase made a bad hire last week, House tells Foreman to hire a new team member. He instantly fires her and passes the task to Taub, who knows it’s a game. He tries to make House think that the candidate is his idea. It’s Lane from “Gilmore Girls” all grown up! She’s the pediatrician assisting on this week’s case. Jennifer Grey (nearly un-recognizable to me post nose job) is a middle aged woman with a grown daughter, giving it another go. The baby is sick and of course they don’t know why. The pediatrician realizes it’s all a game and doesn’t want to be on a team like that and turns down Taub. Everyone loses. Jennifer Grey dies. The grown daughter now has to raise her newborn sister. Guess the search for a lady doctor is still on. Oh….and the dime passed.

“Sons of Anarchy” – Tara helps Gemma escape from the hospital and that administrator even helped her. Didn’t see that one coming. Clay hooks up with the Grim Bastards (aka black bikers) to go visit the Mayans (aka Mexican bikers). Some of the Mayans killed a member of the Grim Bastards a la a knife in the skull. The Sons go to help even the score, but in a criminally diplomatic way. The leader of the Mayans gets his lieutenant to finger the guy that made the kill. He gets a bullet in the brain and the lieutenant (the lovely Jose Pablo Cantillo) get the shit kicked out him and his patch removed. If you’re not privy to the MC life, that means you’re out. At least they didn’t burn the tattoos off of him like they do in SAMCRO. Transport comes through and Gemma gets the intel. The boys are off to Ireland!!! Too bad they’re walking into a trap set by the devilish Jimmy O’Phelan played by Titus Welliver (aka Lost’s Man in Black). Abel, here they come!

“Parenthood” – It’s Halloween in the Braverman households. Zeke goes a bit overboard, but we find out the sentimentality of it. You just don’t hear Nam stories anymore. Christina and Adam begrudgingly decide to let Max trick-r-treat even though he may flip out. Sydney wants to be a beauty queen, which disturbs Julia. Sarah has to go pick up Amber and her horrible friend who gets drunk at a party and ends up in the pool. Billy Baldwin’s Gordon (also Sarah’s boss) comes along after their kiss a few days before. He proves his good intentions by wading into the pool and getting the sad drunk girl out. I hope they write him off. I don’t like Sarah getting it on with her and Adam’s boss. Plus, bring back Kevin Alejandro!!!! She’d be much better with a smokin’ hot, super cool warehouse guy. Who doesn’t like a guy that drives a forklift?

“Modern Family” – The Dunphy family gives up electronics. What, what???? Could you do it? Surprisingly, Haley wins the bet by tricking Phil with the cell phone she carved out of a bar of soap and colored black with a marker. I know, Haley? Apparently that girl really wanted a car. Cam and Mitchell try to get Lily into a preschool, but the competition is tough. How do you compete with an inter-racial, handicapped, African baby raising lesbian couple? You DON’T, bitch!

“Terriers” – This Jed Seidel penned episode was Grrrrr-eeeeaaat. Noel Fisher *sigh* guest stars as an amnesiac. He has the sneaking sense that he’s done something bad. Hank, seeing his sister in this kid, promises to help. Turns out that the boy had a crush on a girl. He planned a trip to Cambodia, so was taking anti malarial pills which made him crazy. He kidnapped the girl and tied her up in his closet. Steph isn’t doing so well off her meds. She’s having conversations and playtime with imaginary neighbors. Steph convinces Hank that she needs to go back to a hospital. They agree on an assisted living facility. I really like the relationship between these siblings. Can’t wait to see where it goes or where it’s been.

“Grey’s Anatomy” – Our kids are growing up *tear*. The fourth year residents get to play dress up for the day and wear the dark blue attending scrubs. The Chief puts them in charge as he has the attendings working on presentations for what they would do with a million dollars. Owen wins, arguing that the entire hospital needs crisis training in the event of another horrific situation like in last season’s finale. Even if you don’t watch this show, go watch the 2 hour season 6 finale. It’s fracking AMAZING. Although this show has slipped a bit as it has lost core members of the cast, it continues to produce extremely strong event episodes. I was wavering on whether to come back this season, but what they are doing with Christina’s character is keeping me interested. We’ll see about next week. Looks like a documentary film crew will be following the doctor’s of Seattle Grace Mercy West.

“The Office” – Timothy Olyphant guest stars!!! And we can expect him for at least one more. He’s a super salesman from whom Dwight, Jim and Michael try to steal techniques. A sting ensues and we end up with Timothy joining the Dunder Mifflin team as a traveling salesman. Will he take over for Steve Carrell next season as manager of our favorite paper company? Who knows? He does have “Justified” going for him, whose second season premieres on FX this January. Oh….and Andy, Kevin and Darrell start a band. Need I say more?

"Supernatural" - This weeks episode was titled Live Free or Twihard. Finally, this show is making fun of how rediculous this vampire craze has gotten. Some genius vampire decided that the way to recruit was to turn pretty boys that would attract and turn hot girls that would attract and turn pretty boys. You get the idea. Well.....Dean is very pretty. He gets turned, but low and behold, Samuel has a cure. Unfortunately it includes getting the blood of the vamp that turned you. Into the nest Dean goes. Some bitters get beheaded and Dean gets the blood. He goes back to being human. What's disturbing is that Sam didn't try to stop Dean from being turned. Samuel accuses him of letting it happen so that Dean could get into the nest to find the Alpha, the head honcho they've been tracking for a year. Ever since the whole apocalypse thing and even before that, Sam has lost a bit of his humanity. He just doesn't care anymore. He just wants to hunt and doesn't care who gets hurt. Far from first season Sam. If you thought that this show would go south post apocalypse storyline, you were wrong. If you aren't watching, what the frak is wrong with you?!!! The writing is amazing. Most people who don't watch don't know how REALLY funny this show is. Do yourself a favor and Netflix the first 5 seasons. Seriously....do it now!

“Blue Bloods” – It didn’t take long for this NYC cop drama to have a terrorist centric episode. It was mostly Donnie Wahlberg which is always fine by me. I can NOT sing his praises high enough. He’s become such a terrific actor. I definitely prefer the man actor to the bad boy, boy bander. It was a nice twist that the terrorist was a blond housewife. Glad we’ll be getting more of this show.

There were a few others this week, but this is all I’ve got for now. Stay Tuned…..

Random Thoughts From This Week in Television

 “Sons of Anarchy”- Hal Holbrook’s guest starring performance is stirring. That man is truly one of the best actors ever to grace the screen. On the flip side, what the hell was with author Stephen King making a cameo as the cleaner?

“Boardwalk Empire” gets picked up after only one episode airs. Not surprising given the caliber of HBO programming.

“Modern Family” – I think Cam would make a very inspiring disabled person. Mitchell lived my worst nightmare….being trapped in a small space with a bird.

“Supernatural” – Sooooooooo happy to see the man of 90% of my fantasies on TV again. I’m talking about Jensen F-ING Ackles. Yeah, Baby! Shakin’ it up this season with Sam back from Hell and working with the extended fam. They’re all so blond. Can’t wait to see what they have in store for the Brothers Winchester after preventing the Apocalypse. Where do you really go from there? Even if it’s back to episodical demon killing, that’s fine by me. 

J.J. Abrams has 2 more new series coming up. Fox has picked up a pilot based on Alcatraz. The script was penned by Elizabeth Sarnoff, who will also act as showrunner. I will definitely be watching this. The second is the much anticipated (since May) dramedy starring Michael Emerson and Terry O’Quinn aka Ben Linus and John Locke/BSM. BSM= Black Smoke Monster for those of you that aren’t Losties. And if you still don’t know what I’m talking about, we’ll have to end our relationship now. Both of these series have me veeeerrrrryy excited. So….when do you think J.J. sleeps?

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.