MASTERPIECE Theater is Actually Cool!

Growing up, the only time I ever heard about Masterpiece Theater was in comedy sketches poking fun at some British, boring movie….or something. Well now I’m all grown up and I watch PBS because I want to. A little background, shall we?......The Masterpiece Trust was founded back in 1971, partners with UK producers to bring high quality material to America’s PBS. It started out with the classics (Austen, Dickens, the Bronte sisters). In 1980, they added Masterpiece Mystery! (Sherlock Holmes anyone?) Now, they’ve also got Masterpiece Contemporary. It's shown in three “seasons” on PBS (Sunday nights). Four months of each. Here some awesome suggestions that I’ve recently seen.

Sherlock

Based on the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle mysteries, creators Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss add a modern day twist. To be honest, I was skeptical, but within five minutes Benedict Cumberbatch had me enthralled. Cumberbatch’s portrayal of the legendary private dick was BAH-RILLIANT! To put it more accurately, he is a consulting detective with the help of physician friend John Watson (played by the adorable Martin Freeman). The two actors have such amazing chemistry. Not only do the performances draw you in, but the style as well. They express the technology being used on screen (i.e. we see floating text of a text message that is being read). Important information, kids! Sounds kind of corny, but it worked marvelously. London is a major character. The way the city was shot with this dark and twinkling softness is like nothing I’ve ever seen. There are three 90 minute episodes and series two has been given the green light. Can’t wait for the return! Check out series one on Netflix.

Downton Abbey

Although, the material seems as though it’s based on a classic novel, this early 20^th century period piece is original programming (as of 2010). Julian Fellowes created this a series around a British, Aristocratic estate. Not only does he delve into the secrets and naughty behavior of the family living there, but the servants who work in the house within a house. Hugh Bonneville plays the patriarch, Earl of Grantham, Robert Crawley. Years ago he married an American heiress so that he could keep his title and estate. Said heiress is none other than Elizabeth McGovern (you know, from all those ‘80s movies). They have three very different daughters and a slew of hired helpers. Unfortunately they don’t have a son which causes much commotion over who will inherit the estate and title when the Earl kicks the bucket. British law was still very sexist back then, as well as the men.  On the surface, it seems like this could be quite a boring tale. I assure you that it’s not. You’ve got intrigue, murder, blackmail, romance and women trying to trick men into marrying them. What more could you want in 1914 rural England? Series two begins filming this fall! Do yourself a favor and Netflix it these four 90 minute episodes.  

Wallander

Kenneth Branagh *swoon* plays Swedish detective, Kurt Wallander. The series is based on books by Henning Mankell. Although this is a crime series, I hesitate to call it a cop show. It’s so much more. The writing (credit to Mankell and co-screenwriter Richard Cottan.) is PHENOMENAL! It’s not our dumbed down, digestible bites of American rubbish. These are stories that make you think…. about life, about humanity, about society. Branagh’s quiet, yet intense performance has earned him nominations for an Emmy, Golden Globe and BAFTA (which he won). If you’re not hooked by the first scene of the first installment, you might as well pack up and go home. Wallander faces astonishing, horrific crime on a daily basis while trying to hold himself together. His family falls apart around him and relationships with co-workers are strenuous at best. All this adds up to a captivating character investigating the most intriguing cases in Southern Sweden (there’s actually a lot of them apparently). The crimes may be ugly, but the cinematography is breathtaking. Plus, I think the director really likes agricultural. Check out series one and two on Netflix. Only three 90 minute episodes per series. It’s worth it! More to come, including original stories….so stay tuned.

This morning I started watching Any Human Heart starring Jim Broadbent and Matthew MacFadyen. It chronicles one man's life through the better part of the 20th century. So far, so good, but I'll let you know how it turns out. 

So what have I learned? Masterpiece does NOT equal boring, rather incredibly great programming. When they say high quality, damn if they don’t mean it. Decide for yourself.

Do you have any favorite Masterpieces?

"Law & Order: UK" Just Keeps Getting Better

In this week's episode, Ronnie and Matt investigate the assault of a woman who's been stalked for the last two years by her supposed attacker. Turns out she just faked it to get the police's attention so that they'd take her seriously. I guess she didn't figure that these coppers would know how to do their jobs. They figured out she was lying. When she turns up dead, they feel a little more than guilty for not pursuing her case.

Matt stands by his report that there was no attacker the first time around. Ronnie decides that the only way to bring her murderer to justice is to establish the escalation of his crimes. He goes back,  "finds new evidence" and testifies that he was wrong the first time around. Unfortunately, he drags Matt into it after their boss expressly told them to stay away from it.

There is a scene where Matt confronts Ronnie about dragging him into it and putting his career in jeopardy. The heated encounter is so out of the ordinary for this usually familial partnership. Ronnie's the father figure and Matt's got a lot to learn, but he's no rookie. And he wasn't wrong. Things just turned out all messed up. I'm curious to see how this changes their friendship.

The other stand out scene was Crown Prosecutor James Steel ripping Matt to shreds on the stand. I know he didn't enjoy it, but damn if he didn't do it well. I have a feeling this relationship will change too. Alesha asked him not to, but he had no choice if he was going to put a murderer behind bars. What exactly is going on between Matt and Alesha? There's definitely something. Sometimes, they're great friends, then sometimes it seems flirty. Will they ever get together? I think they'd make a cute couple.

This spin-off is just so much more captivating to me than the others. Without having watched the others for a long time, I'm still betting that the stories are similar, but it's the way they do it. Plus, I love seeing London as a backdrop. If you haven't seen this BBC gem, check it out Fridays at 10pm or OnDemand.

The "Glory Daze" Are Over

I was reading deadline.com, like I do several times a day and I read that TBS' one hour comedy "Glory Daze" was canceled or to put it nicely, is not being renewed. I'm a little upset about this. Granted, it wasn't Emmy worthy, but it had potential. TBS didn't really give it a fair shot since it was aired over the holiday season. Who the hell is home during the month of December (besides me)? They even aired a new episode the weeks of Christmas and New Years.

If you didn't catch it's limited run, "Glory Daze" followed four college freshman rushing a fraternity in Wisconsin.....oh and it's 1986. The costumes and soundtrack alone were worth checking it out for an ep or two. I think the standout was Matt Bush. He was that guy in Adventureland that kept punching guys in the junk. With his comedic chops, Mr. Bush is going places. I was also quite amused by Chris D'Elia's performance of Stankowski, the thirty year old frat brother that has been high for the last decade and a half. Deadline also reported that he's booked an NBC pilot. I hope TBS doesn't turn out to be the next Fox, creating new shows and canceling them before they get off the ground. Although, I wouldn't mind if they canceled some of those Tyler Perry shows. The promos alone annoy the bejeezus out of me.

"Traffic Light" Gets the Green Light From Me

Since it comes on right after "Raising Hope", I decided to give the new Fox comedy "Traffic Light" a chance. It may be the first time that the lead in strategy has worked on me. I know, RH is only a half a season old, but that's established for Fox. If you haven't seen it, you're probably wondering about the title. They explain in the pilot that it's phases of a relationship as the series follows three friends and their significant others. Mike (Roy from "The Office") is married to Lisa and they have a baby. Adam just moved in with Callie and Kris Marshall (the horny bloke from Love Actually) is the perpetual bachelor.

It's based on an Israeli series. Apparently there's a lot of great television being made over there. It's not so much the premise that makes this show. It's more about the characters and the chemistry. The dialogue is pretty funny, but there is something to say about the delivery. Annnnyyyywayyyyyyy.....I don't want to oversell, but check it out. I'll definitely be giving it a shot. The first three episodes are on www.fox.com and it's on Tuesdays at 9:30.

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.

"Episodes" Exceeds Expectations

Tonight was the finale of "Episodes". I have to say, this show surprised me. My expectations were low, yet I was interested enough to watch. Turns out, it's pretty good. Matt LeBlanc's exaggerated version of himself was entertaining, especially his relationship with Sean. Beverly's hate for Matt was great. I think I like her because I relate.....but I have no strong feelings about Matt LeBlanc in any way. Carol turned out to be another of my favorite characters. In nearly every episode, she said or did something unexpected. And she's soooooooo L. A., but she freely admits it and makes no apologies.

At the end of last week's episode, Matt and Beverly were about to be naughty. And shag they did. Sean figures it out, as he is English and everyone knows they're smarter. A hilarious fight ensues where they both end up drenched in a cinnamon scented fragrance. I'm gonna bet that Showtime has picked up this series for a second season, since the show within a show was picked up. Making a television show with a cheating wife and the friend (pun intended) that shagged her should prove challenging for Sean and entertaining for us. Now, if they'd just get rid of those horrid opening credits.

If you have Showtime, you can catch all episodes OnDemand or on Monday nights starting next week.

"Justified" Wins Me Over

Last week I decided to catch up on season one of “Justified”. Last year when it premiered, I gave up after the first three eps. I just wasn’t into it. The absolutely amazing Walton Goggins (aka Detective Shane Vendrell) was my reason for giving it a shot….and because it is an FX show. He was in the pilot, but then disappeared. If I’d stuck with it, I’d have been incredibly impressed with his moving performance in the second half of the season. I mean….WOW! Goggins is one of the most under rated actors on television. I should really consider running for president of the Walton Goggins fan club.

Timothy Olyphant is the center of the series as the cowboy Federal Marshall who pretty much shoots someone every week. He would sooooo not be allowed to carry a gun in real life if he’d shot that many people. But I like his attitude. Ok, so Olyphant’s Raylan Givens is a law man and Goggins’ Boyd Crowder is from a long line of criminals in rural Kentucky. The two dug coal together when they were boys, but now Raylan is back in Harlan County with a badge. The first few episodes are episodical, which I think they realized it wasn’t working. By the second half of the season, a more cohesive storyline involving Boyd being a reformed white supremacist/man of God. The first season finale was Goooooooooooood. I’m not going to ruin it if you haven’t seen it, but it’s the culmination of several plot lines.

Last night was the premier of season two. I have to say that it lacked some resolution. There were some loose ends that were not tied up…..like where the hell is Ava? Looking past that, we were introduced to some new characters and what seems to be a new thread. It was like a “Lost” reunion with Jeremy Davies and Brad Henke playing brothers in a back woods crime family. Margo Martindale is the moonshine makin’ matriarch of this tribe. LOVE HER! I have a feeling that the crimes of the Bennett family will take the place of those committed by the Crowder clan.

The pilot was based on the short story “Fire in the Hole” by Elmore Leonard, who acts as executive producer. Adam Arkin directed the season one finale as well as the season two premier. Well done Mr. Arkin. He’s turned into quite the talented director and has done several great episodes of “Sons of Anarchy”. I’m a fan.

Ok class….let’s summarize. I was wrong. This show is really good. You should watch. Class dismissed.

Wednesdays at 10pm on FX

Stay Tuned…

Does "Chicago Code" Stand Up to Its Predecessor?

From the creator of “The Shield” comes Fox’s newest cop drama. Shawn Ryan has some great talent lined up in Jennifer Beals and Delroy Lindo, but does the show hold up? The American audience, hell, the world for that matter is heavily exposed to crime dramas. I’m sure we know more about law enforcement and crime than any time before us. I’ve learned more about the law from television than I ever did in high school and college combined. Soooooo….my point. It takes a really great script to impress me.  Otherwise, it’s just cops running around with guns chasing the rapists and murderers.  Ryan, the same man that killed off a cop in the pilot of “The Shield”, penned the first ep of this show. Somehow, I feel like it’s lacking. It’s probably wrong to compare this to that, but I just can’t help it. One thing it’s got is a strong woman. Beals’ Superintendent Theresa Colvin is reminiscent of Glenn Close’s Captain Monica Rawlings. Both are independent, strong willed and have something to prove (in a man’s world on top of it all). Jason Clarke plays Colvin’s former partner and her head detective on a task force meant to bring down city corruption. He’s the heavy handed, crotchety White Sox fan that goes through partners like toilet paper. There’s a bit of naughtiness….of course. But the kind that makes me cringe.  I wasn’t expecting to like this show, but watched because I wanted to like it. Although I wasn’t impressed, I will give it another try. At the very least, Jennifer Beals is stunning and very talent, but the accent is quite annoying.

Stay Tuned….if you feel like it

Mondays at 9pm on FOX

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 ; )

"Fairly Legal" is Only Fairly Interesting

I checked out the first couple of episodes. So far....it's just ok. Sarah Shahi plays a legal mediator with a heart of gold, a sharp tongue and a phone that won't stop ringing. Her lawyer father has just kicked the bucket leaving his young blond wife to run the big, fancy law firm. Needless to say, Shahi's Kate Reed is less than thrilled to be working for the wicked witch of the west. Her brother, the scarecrow played by Ethan Embry is also an attorney, but taking some time off to be a stay at home dad. Kate's assistant Leo (the lion) consistently covers for Kate's repetitive lateness and general inability to be where she says she will. Michael Trucco may look familiar as Sam/Cylon of "Battlestar Galactica" but is now the Tin Man. He plays Kate's district attorney ex-husband with benefits. If you hadn't guessed, dear ol' dad is the wizard. It's on his boat, the Come A Broad that Kate is living.

Kate is good at what she does. In fact, she's the best (or so they keep telling us). She connects with her clients and goes above and beyond to fix them. She spends her own money, risks her career and even lands herself in jail. It's a little over idealistic and filled with too many attractive people. I live in the real world. Not all successful lawyers and professionals are stunningly beautiful. On the other hand, Kate's got spunk. I like a rebel in heels. It's possible that I might be able to put aside my disdain for the horrible opening titles and watch a few more episodes.

Thursdays at 10pm on USA

Stay Tuned....if you want

Hot Docs Practicing Jungle Medicine

Finally watched the premiere of ABC’s “Off the Map”. I was interested because Zach Gilford plays one of the young American doctors. He’s fresh off the plane to practice medicine in a third world South American country. Still waiting to see the final season of “Friday Night Lights”, but that’s another blog post. His character couldn’t be more different than the good boy football player, Matt Saracen. Dr. Tommy Fuller is a plastic surgeon who’s looking for a place to surf in his off time. He partied his way through college and med school just to become a mediocre doctor that “puts boobs in strippers”. I think he’s looking for a little redemption in the jungle. Very dramatic stuff. Dr. Lily Brenner gets a cool case when she cuts Michael McKeon’s arm out of a zip line hundreds of feet above the rocky terrain below. When he needs surgery, she helps the jungle version of Dr. McDreamy do a coconut transfusion. Yes, coconuts. I’ll bet we’re going to see a lot of crazy exotic medicine being practiced against this gorgeous backdrop. ABC films the series in Hawaii alongside CBS’ “Hawaii Five-O”.  The show was created by Jenna Bans, “Grey’s Anatomy” alum. I’m not sure yet. I like the concept, but I’m not sure how much I like the characters. I’ll definitely give it a few episodes. How ‘bout you?

Wednesdays at 10pm on ABC

Stay Tuned….

Is "Episodes" Worth Watching?

Wasn’t sure about this one. It’s by the same guys that worked on “Friends”…….but also “Joey”. We all remember how that turned out.  Tamsin Greig and Stephen Mangan play two hilarious British television writers who are brought to LA to remake their baby. I love that Beverly and Sean (Greig and Mangan) are all over each other. We were laughing until the audition scene. Unfortunately, nothing with Richard Griffiths was funny.

Good idea for a show given the large number of British series being remade over here, usually very badly. "The Office" was the exception. Some of the not so great remakes.....the upcoming "Being Human" "Skins and "Shameless",  "Life on Mars", "Coupling","Blackpool", "Teachers" and "Worst Week". When will we learn?!!!!! Just start distributing BBC shows on American television stations. The American public could do with a little culture. This would be the best way to ease them into it. Back to the topic......

Showtime should have shown two episodes at once for the premiere. It seemed to end abruptly and I wanted more. Matt LeBlanc was in about 90 seconds in the very beginning. Shouldn’t the pull for a new series make more of an appearance? HOUR LONG PREMIERE! Showtime tends to do this with their half hour shows. “Secret Diary of a Call Girl”, “United States of Tara”, and “Weeds”. They all end just as the episode is getting good. Showtime should ONLY do one hour shows. I’m hoping this show turns out funny. One point it’s got against it is the opening credits. Don’t like them, nuh uh.  The series overall’s got potential and I love the Brits involved. Check it out.

Sundays at 9:30pm on Showtime

Stay Tuned….

"Southland" Returns!

If you’re missing the grittiness of “The Shield” as much as I am, you should be watching TNT’s “Southland”. The third, yes third season returns. Apparently TNT is getting even stingier with the length of their seasons. Annnnnyyyywayyyyy…..their return has been highly anticipated, in my house anyhow.

A woman working as a cleaning lady in an office building is murdered and stuffed in a crawl space. Adams and her new, aggressive, lady partner work the case. Sherman and Cooper arrive on the scene of a shootout where an office is down. Bullets fly, people are shot, a bad guy shoots himself. Bryant’s girl, who he’s always fighting with, is knocked up. Honestly, I can do without the two of them. I like Shawn Hatosy, but I don’t think he’s right in this show. I don’t really like the character at all. I however LOOOOOOVE John Cooper (aka Bull from Band of Brothers aka his real name Michael Cudlitz). His pain and addiction is a great storyline that I can’t wait for them to delve deeper into. It’s gonna be gooooood.

Stay Tuned…..

Tuesdays at 10pm on TNT

Primeval Part II- Season 4 Premiere


Season four opens with some new characters, big surpirse. Matt Anderson (Ciarán McManamin) is the new field team leader. Gotta love an Irish accent and dreamy blue eyes. Ruth Kearney plays ARC administrator Jess Parker. From what I can tell, Jess is to Matt as Chloe is to Jack Bauer. The ARC has a new boss and it's Alexander Saddig as Philip Burton. LOVE HIM!

Abby and Connor are surviving in the cretaceous. It's been a whole year. Abby's bottled blond hair is amazingly still blond even though it's grown about six inches. Connor's cute baby face is covered by a beard. Still hot though. They stay alive by dodging dinosaurs and creatively cooking fish and roots. The only two humans on Earth are getting a bit weary and frustrated though. Can you blame them? I don't know about you, but I can't imagine camping let alone surviving prehistoric creatures chasing me, having to kill and cook my own food and not having any internet access.

Captain Becker (pretty soldier boy) is clashing with his new boss, Matt. When Becker dismisses the effectiveness of a new weapon that Matt brings in, Matt shoots him with it. Their relationship should be interesting to watch if they keep this up. Ciarán kinda reminds me of Jonny Lee Miller. That's a good thing.

Arguably the cutest couple on BBC makes it back to civilization after they find Helen's old anomoly finder-thingy. Come ooooonnn....you knew they would. It would kinda suck if they didn't. Only problem, they bring a dino with them. Connor puts himself in harms way to try and fix it......as usual. At the last second, he does and the anomoly appears to take the dino back to some far away time. Hopefully this gains him some points with Matt.

Connor meets Philip Burton and it's like he's met a Beatle, but the fawning doesn't go on for long. Connor and Abby are quickly told that they are no longer part of the field team. It's military only. They only survied for a YEAR in Dinoland. I think that gives them some pretty relevant training. I doubt they'll give up and go home....especially since they probably don't have a home anymore. Can't wait to see what's in store. You can catch new episodes every Saturday night at 9pm on BBC America. Or if you have BBC HD, you can watch the east coast showing at 6pm. That's my little cheat.

Stay Tuned....

Primeval Part I - Have You Been Watching This Super Awesome Show?



"Primeval" is most likely one of the best shows you're NOT watching. So....now's a good time to catch up with the season 4 premiere airing tonight. If you're a fan of "Doctor Who", "Torchwood", or "Being Human" (yes I realize these are all BBC shows) you'll love this nugget. I watched seasons 1-3 on Netflix Watch Instantly (still available) this past summer. It instantly hooked me.

Nick Cutter is an evolutionary zoologist and professor that is called in to assist in the investigation of an "animal" sighting. He is accompanied by his lab assistant Stephen Hart, graduate student Connor Temple and zoo animal handler Abby Maitland. For me, it was the characters and group dymanic that fed my addiction for this show. Cutter is mourning his wife, Helen, that has been missing for several years. Connor *swoon* is a cute, goofy, lovable young man that quickly falls in love with Abby. One problem, she's got her eye on Stephen. Annnnnnnyyyyyyywaaaaayyyyyy....................

Turns out that these "animals" are actually prehistoric and futuristic creatures that pop through these portals in time, called anomolies. Our team of scientistists and semi-professional like people track these long lost creatures, return them through the anomolies and attempt to research how and why they occur. Not too far along, we learn that Helen was trapped inside one of these anomolies for years, but now is using them to travel through time.

Of course, our merry group of scientists must report to someone. In the beginning they were contracted by a part of the government only referred to as Home Office. By season three, the Anomoly Research Center, ARC has a huuuuge facilitiy where they even hold onto creatures. It's run by a dick named Lester. I don't know why, but it's fitting. Characters come and go. A little too much for my liking actually. The original team was so great. In season three, Cutter was replaced as team leader by Jason Flemyng as Danny Quinn. You may remember him from Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels, Snatch or League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. He's alright, but he's not Cutter. We're getting more shake-ups in season four. At least my two favorite characters have endured. Connor, played by the adorable Andrew Lee Potts, who I'm dying to make out with and Abby, played by Hannah Spearitt who I'm so jealous of since she is dating Potts in real life.

In the season three finale, Connor and Abby are trapped on the wrong side of an anomoly in the cretaceous period. WTF???!!!!!!!!!!! It was to save the human race, so kinda worth it. Remember crazy Helen, who was jumping through time? She wanted to poison the first humans and keep humanity for ever existing. Coo-koo! Damn good cliff hanger though. We weren't sure there was going to be a fourth season. Now, there's even a season five slated for late 2011 and spin offs.

So class, what have we learned? Watch this show! Go catch up on Netflix Watch Instantly. It's British, so the seasons are short.

"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!

"Dexter" Goes Out With a Bang (Or Rather a Slice)

Steve Shill directs the fifth season finale. Penned by Chip Johannessen and Manny Coto, this episode begins with Dexter trying to find Lumen, yet distractions keep arising. Dexter finally gets to Lumen at the camp where all the torturing started after being pulled to investigate Liddy’s murder and a pretty bad car crash. Jordan has a gun on Dex, but he soon turns the tables and Jordan is strapped to the table. He tries to make Lumen and Dexter believe that the three of them are “in this together”. It’s pathetic. When Lumen plunges the knife into his chest, there is a release. It’s over. Deb’s savvy detective work brings her to the camp just in time to find our killers cleaning their tools. Deb draws a gun on them from the other side of a blood spattered sheet of plastic. She can’t tell that the murderer on the other side is her dearly beloved brother. Deb’s deep connection to #13 compels her to let them go, without ever seeing their faces. Justice is served. Deb’s monologue as she holds a gun to the sheet of plastic is well done. It’s a great close up and the emotion is her eyes is intense. Dexter and Lumen dispose of the body in the usual way. The shots of them on the boat, with this hopeful music is very un-Dexter. It’s no surprise that Lumen is leaving. How could she stay? Once that darkness is gone, how could you continue to live in someone else’s? Watching Dexter crumble to the floor in pain as she tells him she’s leaving is heartbreaking! No one will ever know him the way she does. For a while, I actually wanted them to work out. I have to say that I am surprised that Dex covered for Quinn. Granted he didn’t kill Liddy, but it would have solved the problem of Quinn poking his nose where it doesn’t belong. Now we just have to hope that Quinn is grateful enough to let things lie. What does our genius team have in store for season 6? Yes, there will definitely be a sixth season. My hope is that they have another great season arc. It obviously works out well. Thoughts?

FX Puts "Terriers" Down

FX announced today that “Terriers” has been canceled. *tear* This was my favorite new drama of the 2010 season. Granted, I didn’t blog about the finale because of my lack of satisfaction, but I didn’t want it to be canceled. It wasn’t even that the the finale was bad, it just wasn’t as eventful and dramatic as they lead us to believe it was going to be. The writing was strong and the performances, even better. Donal Logue’s broken down, wearied portrayal of Hank Dalworth was brilliant. “Terriers” introduced me to Michael Raymond-James whose babies I'd like to have. At first, I thought he was a bit dim and just a pretty face, but he’s got some real chops. I have no doubt that with this work under their belts, Donal and Michael won’t be out of work for long.

So what happened? Some said that the posters featuring the dog were misleading. I don’t think that was it. My guess is that not enough people gave it a shot. If you watched at least one of two eps and have good taste, how could you not go back for more?! Yes, I am disappointed in Tim Griffin and his writing team for not giving us a good enough finale, but it was obviously over before that. More importantly I am disappointed in “The Shield” and “Sons of Anarchy” fans that didn’t watch in droves. I am a loyal viewer therefore I will give any show a shot if it’s by someone that has proven their brilliance before (i.e. Shawn Ryan, Kurt Sutter, J.J. Abrams, Charles Eglee). Sometimes it doesn’t work out and the new show just isn’t up your alley, but show some allegiance! I put my trust in the writers and producers that have rarely, if ever done me wrong. Most of the time, it works out (with the exception of the series finale of “The Shield”). If you don’t believe me, watch “Dexter” or “Sons of Anarchy”. Some may fight me on including “Lost” in that list, but I will. Yes, I’m putting it in writing! I loved the “Lost” finale and I don’t care who knows it! “Terriers” will be missed, so Donal and Michael, here’s to you. Cheers mates.

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.

"Sons of Anarchy" Season 3 Finale ***Spoilers***

All bow to the brilliance of Kurt Sutter!

The third season finale begins with what seems like and ending. A montage of the family with an appropriate song backing it. When Kurt Sutter directs wife Katey Sagal, it results in nothing less than magnificence on screen. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, every week, Sagal delivers an award worthy performance.  If only we could have more than one hour a week for thirteen weeks out of the year.

After three seasons, it still surprises me how these very masculine, macho men are able to express their feelings…to each other. They hug before departing on a mission. They say “I love you” to each other. These “brothers” are closer to each other than I am to my own family. I suppose with each sin they commit, it bonds them closer.

Sutter’s direction is impeccable. Particularly the scene between Jacks and Stahl that starts out on a low shot, up at Jacks with the beautiful blue California sky behind him. Then he circles the two as they discuss the deal they are about to close, officially making Jacks a rat (or so we think). The music is always carefully selected and very effective. It seems especially so for a highly emotional finale. Towards the end, I realized that many of the main cast members seemed to be absent. Nearly all of the major scenes involved Jacks, Stahl and Gemma. It’s not that the rest of the crew wasn’t there. They were always there, but their scenes were silent. The men appear en mass for effect. They communicate with subtle looks.

If you’ve read one or two of my posts, you know by now that I’m a pretty big cry baby. Give me some well written, emotional material and the waterworks begin. I think I balled my eyes out for the last ten minutes. Not for those that were killed. They deserved it (by SAMCRO logic). I cried for our boys and for what they were doing. They commit these crimes, do these horrible things and then they have to live with the guilt. We watch as all the characters we’ve grown to love are carted off to jail in a modern day paddy wagon. It’s seems justified that Chibbs should carve Jimmy O up after the horrendous things Jimmy had done to him and his girls. I don’t think he’ll carry any guilt for that. Opie puts an end to the lying, murdering, bitch that is ATF Agent Stahl just as Tig killed Opie’s wife, Donna back in season one. As I write this, I realize that not so long ago, Stahl had framed Opie as a snitch, so maybe he won’t feel all that bad. On the other hand, the actions that Opie takes, do weigh on him. He’s a good man and the gravity of his actions isn’t lost. Uncer knows it’s all coming to an end in more ways than one. After all that he’s done for the club, it’s heartbreaking to see him give up his badge. It is time, but it’s still sad.

In the end, Jacks didn’t betray his club. As he says, he’s not his father, but that remains to be seen. By the time we revisit Charming next September, the boys will probably be getting out of jail and there’ll be a new baby to welcome into the SAMCRO family.  Can’t wait to see what Kurt has in store. I haven’t been disappointed yet. This is some of the best material, dare I say EVER produced for television.

P.S. If you like Sons and haven’t watched “Terriers” yet, check it out. I’ll be blogging about the first season’s finale tomorrow. VERY EXCITED!!!!!