Entourage: Season 7, Episode 4 “Tequila Sunrise” (B+)
More so than any other show, I’d say, this series is skilled at doing what might otherwise come off as stunt casting and making it seem natural. Sometimes it isn’t thrilling, in the case of directors like James Cameron or Gus Van Sant whose acting turns out to be rather one-note, but here it works great. John Stamos is certainly more interesting as a character than the other former “Full House” cast member who has recurred on this show in the past, even if he’s not quite as infinitely more likable as would be expected. It’s no surprise that Drama messes up initially in his first meeting with Stamos, but in his defense, Stamos really is just a jerk who only wants to hang out with Vince. It seems like the show might actually get going and Drama might be able to reboot his career. It’s good to put an end to the Eric-Scott rivalry and have them play as a team, though I suspect that their new friendship is going to quickly get Eric in trouble with his fiancée. It’s sad to see Turtle get used just for his connection to Vince, though he may have found an ideal romantic relationship out of it, and Vince can always use another gig to ensure that he doesn’t have an off year like the one he had last season. I find it somewhat hard to believe that Lizzie is able to pull off a coup similar to the one Ari did at Terence’s agency (I doubt she would have the same pull), but the idea of Autumn Reeser in a more major role is definitely something I’d be okay with, so bring on the competition!
Friday, July 30, 2010
AFT Awards: Best Guest Actress in a Drama Series
This is the tenth category of the 4th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television this past season. This year, semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work being done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.
Best Guest Actress in a Drama Series
Last year’s nominees: Lizzy Caplan, Michelle Forbes, Kandyse McClure, Melinda McGraw, Laura Ramsey
Emmy nominees: Shirley Jones, Ann-Margret, Elizabeth Mitchell, Mary Kay Place, Sissy Spacek, Lily Tomlin
Semi-finalists: Amy Acker (Human Target), Shohreh Aghdashloo (Flash Forward), Moon Bloodgood (Human Target), Tricia Helfer (Human Target), Mary McDonnell (The Closer), Elizabeth Mitchell (Lost), Grace Park (Human Target), Callie Thorne (Royal Pains), Callie Thorne (White Collar)
Finalists: Ally Walker (Sons of Anarchy) was both formidable and pathetic in the way that she played so closely and dangerously with the boys of SAMCRO. Abigail Spencer (Mad Men) was this season’s standout female who stole Don Draper’s attention. Courtney Ford (Human Target) made the possible silliness of her episode work well thanks to her concentrated and sharp performance. Autumn Reeser (Human Target) infused some much-needed female blood into an all-male team. Annabeth Gish (Flash Forward) was barely seen, but was easily one of the most enticing and mysterious figures of the season who should have earned more screen time.
The nominees:
Maura Tierney (Rescue Me) was dry, sarcastic, and an entirely loose cannon as the latest woman to throw Tommy for a loop. Lily Tomlin (Damages) played the part of a disgraced wife with elegance, poise, and a cutthroat edge. Emmanuelle Vaugier (Human Target) didn’t let Christopher Chance toss her aside and became an intricate and necessary part of the show. Courtney Ford (Dexter) was initially a distraction but became so much more due to her smart reading of an extremely complicated character.
The winner:
Summer Glau (Dollhouse) brilliantly played an instantly memorable and deeply disturbed technician whose emotions and connections were crucial and absolutely central to the show’s second season.
Next Up: Best Guest Actor in a Comedy Series
Last year’s nominees: Lizzy Caplan, Michelle Forbes, Kandyse McClure, Melinda McGraw, Laura Ramsey
Emmy nominees: Shirley Jones, Ann-Margret, Elizabeth Mitchell, Mary Kay Place, Sissy Spacek, Lily Tomlin
Semi-finalists: Amy Acker (Human Target), Shohreh Aghdashloo (Flash Forward), Moon Bloodgood (Human Target), Tricia Helfer (Human Target), Mary McDonnell (The Closer), Elizabeth Mitchell (Lost), Grace Park (Human Target), Callie Thorne (Royal Pains), Callie Thorne (White Collar)
Finalists: Ally Walker (Sons of Anarchy) was both formidable and pathetic in the way that she played so closely and dangerously with the boys of SAMCRO. Abigail Spencer (Mad Men) was this season’s standout female who stole Don Draper’s attention. Courtney Ford (Human Target) made the possible silliness of her episode work well thanks to her concentrated and sharp performance. Autumn Reeser (Human Target) infused some much-needed female blood into an all-male team. Annabeth Gish (Flash Forward) was barely seen, but was easily one of the most enticing and mysterious figures of the season who should have earned more screen time.
The nominees:
Maura Tierney (Rescue Me) was dry, sarcastic, and an entirely loose cannon as the latest woman to throw Tommy for a loop. Lily Tomlin (Damages) played the part of a disgraced wife with elegance, poise, and a cutthroat edge. Emmanuelle Vaugier (Human Target) didn’t let Christopher Chance toss her aside and became an intricate and necessary part of the show. Courtney Ford (Dexter) was initially a distraction but became so much more due to her smart reading of an extremely complicated character.
The winner:
Summer Glau (Dollhouse) brilliantly played an instantly memorable and deeply disturbed technician whose emotions and connections were crucial and absolutely central to the show’s second season.
Next Up: Best Guest Actor in a Comedy Series
What I’m Watching: Hung
Hung: Season 2, Episode 4 “Sing It Again Ray or Home Plate” (B+)
I am absolutely loving the integration of the supporting characters in this season. Lenore, Damon, and Ronnie all had terrific showcases in this episode that emphasize that this show has truly great characters aside from its two main protagonists. I’m not sure I’ve appropriately commended Rebecca Creskoff, who has been front and center this season as Lenore and appears in a quick but fantastic scene at the beginning of this episode. While I suspect her business relationship with Ray and Tanya won’t persist in its current form forever, I doubt she’ll be exiting either of their lives anytime soon. Damon urinating on home plate at the start of the episode paved the way for two excellent lines and another great story arc that was launched at the end of this episode. Ray’s dismay over how he “pissed on America’s pastime” (and Tanya’s subsequent moving walkway pratfall) was great, and the way Damon said “I wasn’t pissing on you, Dad” was just great. I love the fact that Tanya and Damon are now bonding, though I worry that Tanya’s mention of Ray’s job and Damon’s “art” will alienate him at a time when she can’t professionally afford to be distanced from him because of Lenore’s craziness and domination in their business. Ronnie had a hilarious zany speech about oatmeal, and it was so memorable that I had a dream about trying to make the most delicious cinnamon oatmeal the night after I watched it. Ray’s client of the week and her obsession with him singing “Happy Birthday” to her in different ways was a lot of fun as a subplot too.
I am absolutely loving the integration of the supporting characters in this season. Lenore, Damon, and Ronnie all had terrific showcases in this episode that emphasize that this show has truly great characters aside from its two main protagonists. I’m not sure I’ve appropriately commended Rebecca Creskoff, who has been front and center this season as Lenore and appears in a quick but fantastic scene at the beginning of this episode. While I suspect her business relationship with Ray and Tanya won’t persist in its current form forever, I doubt she’ll be exiting either of their lives anytime soon. Damon urinating on home plate at the start of the episode paved the way for two excellent lines and another great story arc that was launched at the end of this episode. Ray’s dismay over how he “pissed on America’s pastime” (and Tanya’s subsequent moving walkway pratfall) was great, and the way Damon said “I wasn’t pissing on you, Dad” was just great. I love the fact that Tanya and Damon are now bonding, though I worry that Tanya’s mention of Ray’s job and Damon’s “art” will alienate him at a time when she can’t professionally afford to be distanced from him because of Lenore’s craziness and domination in their business. Ronnie had a hilarious zany speech about oatmeal, and it was so memorable that I had a dream about trying to make the most delicious cinnamon oatmeal the night after I watched it. Ray’s client of the week and her obsession with him singing “Happy Birthday” to her in different ways was a lot of fun as a subplot too.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
What I’m Watching: The Glades
The Glades: Season 1, Episode 3 “A Perfect Storm” (B+)
It’s interesting to see how the police department functions when a hurricane is about to hit, and also just how little regard for protocol or his safety Jim seems to have. The scenario does provide a great opportunity for Carlos to step up to the plate and make a grandstanding speech about putting the patients in the hospital above the hospital itself. It’s a nice chance for Colleen to express some concern for Jim too with her ordering him not to get shot. Jim certainly has a blast at the reunion, and it was a fun way of investigating the crime. Three episodes in, Jim is shaping up to be a more than competent lead whose quirks are an asset rather than an annoyance (I’m sure some don’t agree with me on that point and find him detestable). I’m still really intrigued by the relationship between Jim and Callie. His offer to go pick up her son while Callie was busy at work didn’t come as a surprise at all, though she seemed to have been caught off guard a bit by it. The fact that she both told him about her husband calling and gave him the confidential patient information indicates that she’s willing to open herself up to him and compromise herself personally and professionally to develop some kind of relationship with him. It may not be explicitly sexual or romantic, but the chemistry and their flirtation during the post-hurricane cleanup was palpable. These two are definitely going to get together soon.
It’s interesting to see how the police department functions when a hurricane is about to hit, and also just how little regard for protocol or his safety Jim seems to have. The scenario does provide a great opportunity for Carlos to step up to the plate and make a grandstanding speech about putting the patients in the hospital above the hospital itself. It’s a nice chance for Colleen to express some concern for Jim too with her ordering him not to get shot. Jim certainly has a blast at the reunion, and it was a fun way of investigating the crime. Three episodes in, Jim is shaping up to be a more than competent lead whose quirks are an asset rather than an annoyance (I’m sure some don’t agree with me on that point and find him detestable). I’m still really intrigued by the relationship between Jim and Callie. His offer to go pick up her son while Callie was busy at work didn’t come as a surprise at all, though she seemed to have been caught off guard a bit by it. The fact that she both told him about her husband calling and gave him the confidential patient information indicates that she’s willing to open herself up to him and compromise herself personally and professionally to develop some kind of relationship with him. It may not be explicitly sexual or romantic, but the chemistry and their flirtation during the post-hurricane cleanup was palpable. These two are definitely going to get together soon.
AFT Awards: Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series
This is the ninth category of the 4th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television this past season. This year, semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work being done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.
Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series
Last year’s nominees: Patrick Fischler, Richard Hatch, Alessandro Juliani, John de Lancie, Stephen Root
Emmy nominees: Dylan Baker, Beau Bridges, Alan Cumming, Ted Danson, Gregory Itzin, John Lithgow, Robert Morse
Semi-finalists: Erick Avari (Human Target), Dylan Baker (The Good Wife), Craig Bierko (The Good Wife), Keith Carradine (Dexter), Kim Coates (Human Target), Alan Cumming (The Good Wife), Henry Ian Cusick (Lost), Alan Dale (Lost), M.C. Gainey (Justified), Lennie James (Human Target), Sean Maher (Human Target), William Mapother (Human Target), Dominic Monaghan (Lost), Mark Moses (Mad Men), Chris Mulkey (Human Target), Timothy Omundson (Human Target), Mark Pellegrino (Lost), Henry Rollins (Sons of Anarchy), Chelcie Ross (Mad Men), Kevin Weisman (Human Target)
Finalists: David Costabile (Breaking Bad) displayed a mesmerizing calm and desperate need for approval as Walt’s new lab assistant. Len Cariou (Damages) crafted a tragic portrait of a Madoff-like man desperate to leave his family with something. Dominic Chianese (Damages) played against type as a fully mentally-present money man and was just as compelling as Uncle Junior. Jared Harris (Mad Men) was by far the best part of the British invasion of Sterling Cooper. Raymond J. Barry (Justified) played the world’s worst father who straddled the line between good and bad in an extraordinarily gripping manner.
The nominees:
Allan Hyde (True Blood) was heartbreaking and, more importantly, actually believable as a centuries-old vampire ready to leave his life behind. John Lithgow (Dexter) was a perfect match for Dexter as a family man with a dark secret life. Adam Arkin (Sons of Anarchy) was intimidating and fearsome without ever raising his voice or showing his hand as the most severe threat to SAMCRO yet. Walton Goggins (Justified) played a character just as morally ambiguous as Shane Vendrell, and was a fantastic nemesis for Raylan.
The winner:
James Callis (Flash Forward) showed up midway through the season and immediately stole the show with his eccentric, disturbed key piece of the puzzle.
Next up: Best Guest Actress in a Drama Series
Last year’s nominees: Patrick Fischler, Richard Hatch, Alessandro Juliani, John de Lancie, Stephen Root
Emmy nominees: Dylan Baker, Beau Bridges, Alan Cumming, Ted Danson, Gregory Itzin, John Lithgow, Robert Morse
Semi-finalists: Erick Avari (Human Target), Dylan Baker (The Good Wife), Craig Bierko (The Good Wife), Keith Carradine (Dexter), Kim Coates (Human Target), Alan Cumming (The Good Wife), Henry Ian Cusick (Lost), Alan Dale (Lost), M.C. Gainey (Justified), Lennie James (Human Target), Sean Maher (Human Target), William Mapother (Human Target), Dominic Monaghan (Lost), Mark Moses (Mad Men), Chris Mulkey (Human Target), Timothy Omundson (Human Target), Mark Pellegrino (Lost), Henry Rollins (Sons of Anarchy), Chelcie Ross (Mad Men), Kevin Weisman (Human Target)
Finalists: David Costabile (Breaking Bad) displayed a mesmerizing calm and desperate need for approval as Walt’s new lab assistant. Len Cariou (Damages) crafted a tragic portrait of a Madoff-like man desperate to leave his family with something. Dominic Chianese (Damages) played against type as a fully mentally-present money man and was just as compelling as Uncle Junior. Jared Harris (Mad Men) was by far the best part of the British invasion of Sterling Cooper. Raymond J. Barry (Justified) played the world’s worst father who straddled the line between good and bad in an extraordinarily gripping manner.
The nominees:
Allan Hyde (True Blood) was heartbreaking and, more importantly, actually believable as a centuries-old vampire ready to leave his life behind. John Lithgow (Dexter) was a perfect match for Dexter as a family man with a dark secret life. Adam Arkin (Sons of Anarchy) was intimidating and fearsome without ever raising his voice or showing his hand as the most severe threat to SAMCRO yet. Walton Goggins (Justified) played a character just as morally ambiguous as Shane Vendrell, and was a fantastic nemesis for Raylan.
The winner:
James Callis (Flash Forward) showed up midway through the season and immediately stole the show with his eccentric, disturbed key piece of the puzzle.
Next up: Best Guest Actress in a Drama Series
What I’m Watching: Mad Men (Season Premiere)
Mad Men: Season 4, Episode 1 “Public Relations” (B+)
This really is the Don Draper show. Peggy couldn’t have said it better when she told Don outright that everything everyone does is to please him. As this Emmy-winning show returns for its fourth season, it’s even clearer how much of an influence Don has on everything that goes on around him. His simply not saying someone has such a drastic influence on how his profile is received, and his fury at the clients who weren’t open to hearing any of his ideas was even more indicative of just how much he runs things. His behavior is certainly self-destructive and won’t long go tolerated by those who don’t fear him, a group that encompasses his partners and Peggy on a good day. Peggy and Pete’s plan to have the women fight over a ham was actually quite clever, and it’s a pity that Don couldn’t even take a second to congratulate her before ripping her a new one for having to call him and ask for bail money. Everything is not blissful for the newly married ex-Mrs. Draper, and Henry Francis has to juggle convincing his mother of Betty’s good nature and not getting caught in between Don and Betty in the midst of a vicious argument. The new structure at Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce will definitely take some getting used to, and that process should be an intriguing and enlightening one. All of the actors, most notably Jon Hamm and Elisabeth moss, still turn in powerhouse performances, and it’s a great thing to have this show back.
This really is the Don Draper show. Peggy couldn’t have said it better when she told Don outright that everything everyone does is to please him. As this Emmy-winning show returns for its fourth season, it’s even clearer how much of an influence Don has on everything that goes on around him. His simply not saying someone has such a drastic influence on how his profile is received, and his fury at the clients who weren’t open to hearing any of his ideas was even more indicative of just how much he runs things. His behavior is certainly self-destructive and won’t long go tolerated by those who don’t fear him, a group that encompasses his partners and Peggy on a good day. Peggy and Pete’s plan to have the women fight over a ham was actually quite clever, and it’s a pity that Don couldn’t even take a second to congratulate her before ripping her a new one for having to call him and ask for bail money. Everything is not blissful for the newly married ex-Mrs. Draper, and Henry Francis has to juggle convincing his mother of Betty’s good nature and not getting caught in between Don and Betty in the midst of a vicious argument. The new structure at Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce will definitely take some getting used to, and that process should be an intriguing and enlightening one. All of the actors, most notably Jon Hamm and Elisabeth moss, still turn in powerhouse performances, and it’s a great thing to have this show back.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
What I’m Watching: True Blood
True Blood: Season 3, Episode 6 “I Got a Right to Sing the Blues” (B)
When a show puts its central characters in jeopardy, it’s hard to believe that they’re not going to survive their ordeals. Someone like Tara may be expandable, sure, although they’ve kept her around much longer than most would like, but there’s no way Bill’s going to die, despite having all of his blood drained and pretty much coming as close to dying as he possibly can. I flashed back to him running in the sunlight to save Sookie and just collapsing in a heap in the first season finale, so I have little doubt that Bill will soon be good and fine. I am hopeful that Lorena will soon depart from this show’s universe since she’s been nothing but trouble since she first showed up. I am very intrigued about exactly what Eric is up to since he’s betraying so many allegiances that soon no one will trust him. It’s good to see the Queen again, and the idea of her and the King as a pair should be quite interesting. Sookie asking the King all of her questions just breaks down how little she knows and how much crazy stuff there is to know. Tara and Sookie’s decently-coordinated escape plan seems doomed to fail, and Lorena feasting on Sookie certainly won’t help matters. The arrival of Alcide should, though. Even if it’s a bit more slow-moving, I’m finding the events back in Bon Temps to be the most engaging. Lafayette and his unlikely romance with Jesus, now most likely threatened by the revelation of Lafayette’s profession. Arlene and Jessica are quite fun together, and Jessica glamoring the grumpy customer to leave all her money and then feeding on her was a neat, devilish trick.
When a show puts its central characters in jeopardy, it’s hard to believe that they’re not going to survive their ordeals. Someone like Tara may be expandable, sure, although they’ve kept her around much longer than most would like, but there’s no way Bill’s going to die, despite having all of his blood drained and pretty much coming as close to dying as he possibly can. I flashed back to him running in the sunlight to save Sookie and just collapsing in a heap in the first season finale, so I have little doubt that Bill will soon be good and fine. I am hopeful that Lorena will soon depart from this show’s universe since she’s been nothing but trouble since she first showed up. I am very intrigued about exactly what Eric is up to since he’s betraying so many allegiances that soon no one will trust him. It’s good to see the Queen again, and the idea of her and the King as a pair should be quite interesting. Sookie asking the King all of her questions just breaks down how little she knows and how much crazy stuff there is to know. Tara and Sookie’s decently-coordinated escape plan seems doomed to fail, and Lorena feasting on Sookie certainly won’t help matters. The arrival of Alcide should, though. Even if it’s a bit more slow-moving, I’m finding the events back in Bon Temps to be the most engaging. Lafayette and his unlikely romance with Jesus, now most likely threatened by the revelation of Lafayette’s profession. Arlene and Jessica are quite fun together, and Jessica glamoring the grumpy customer to leave all her money and then feeding on her was a neat, devilish trick.
AFT Awards: Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
This is the eighth category of the 4th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television this past season. This year, semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work being done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.
Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
Last year’s nominees: Kristin Chenoweth, Jenna Fischer, Ashley Madekwe, Portia de Rossi, Vanessa Williams
Emmy nominees: Julie Bowen, Jane Krakowski, Jane Lynch, Holland Taylor, Sofia Vergara, Kristin Wiig
Semi-finalists: Sharon Gless (Burn Notice) – nominated in Emmy Drama category, Traylor Howard (Monk), Rashida Jones (Parks and Recreation), Jane Krakowski (30 Rock), Maggie Lawson (Psych), Jayma Mays (Glee), Reshma Shetty (Royal Pains)
Finalists: Julie Bowen (Modern Family) had the very difficult job of being the straight man in a cast of wacky characters and pulled it off magnificently. Jenna Fischer (The Office) had two wonderful hour-long episodes to get married and have a baby and excelled in both of them. Vanessa Williams (Ugly Betty) tried for her final revenge against the Meade family, and it was just as deliciously evil and fashionable as ever. Robyn Cohen (Gravity) was hypnotic in her all-too-few scenes as a quirky suicidal wife on Starz’s underseen cancelled series. Becki Newton (Ugly Betty) was energetic and clueless like always, and I can’t wait to see her in next role on NBC’s “Love Bites” sometime this coming season.
The nominees:
Jane Lynch (Glee) didn’t initially do much singing but stole every scene she was in with her harsh and incredible insults. Sofia Vergara (Modern Family) found a sticking series and a great role as the extremely Colombian and very often incomprehensible mother of one and wife of another. Portia de Rossi (Better Off Ted) burst bubbles and devastated dreams as the one and only Veronica Palmer in ABC’s tragically cancelled workplace comedy. Ellie Kemper (The Office) was this season’s best find as she came into her own as the permanent receptionist who was even sweeter and more willing to put up with Michael than her predecessor.
The winner:
Audrey Plaza (Parks and Recreation) was unrelentingly hilarious in what could have been a forgettable, throwaway part, and the way she dryly delivers every one of her lines is unparalleled.
Next up: Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series
Last year’s nominees: Kristin Chenoweth, Jenna Fischer, Ashley Madekwe, Portia de Rossi, Vanessa Williams
Emmy nominees: Julie Bowen, Jane Krakowski, Jane Lynch, Holland Taylor, Sofia Vergara, Kristin Wiig
Semi-finalists: Sharon Gless (Burn Notice) – nominated in Emmy Drama category, Traylor Howard (Monk), Rashida Jones (Parks and Recreation), Jane Krakowski (30 Rock), Maggie Lawson (Psych), Jayma Mays (Glee), Reshma Shetty (Royal Pains)
Finalists: Julie Bowen (Modern Family) had the very difficult job of being the straight man in a cast of wacky characters and pulled it off magnificently. Jenna Fischer (The Office) had two wonderful hour-long episodes to get married and have a baby and excelled in both of them. Vanessa Williams (Ugly Betty) tried for her final revenge against the Meade family, and it was just as deliciously evil and fashionable as ever. Robyn Cohen (Gravity) was hypnotic in her all-too-few scenes as a quirky suicidal wife on Starz’s underseen cancelled series. Becki Newton (Ugly Betty) was energetic and clueless like always, and I can’t wait to see her in next role on NBC’s “Love Bites” sometime this coming season.
The nominees:
Jane Lynch (Glee) didn’t initially do much singing but stole every scene she was in with her harsh and incredible insults. Sofia Vergara (Modern Family) found a sticking series and a great role as the extremely Colombian and very often incomprehensible mother of one and wife of another. Portia de Rossi (Better Off Ted) burst bubbles and devastated dreams as the one and only Veronica Palmer in ABC’s tragically cancelled workplace comedy. Ellie Kemper (The Office) was this season’s best find as she came into her own as the permanent receptionist who was even sweeter and more willing to put up with Michael than her predecessor.
The winner:
Audrey Plaza (Parks and Recreation) was unrelentingly hilarious in what could have been a forgettable, throwaway part, and the way she dryly delivers every one of her lines is unparalleled.
Next up: Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series
Take Three: Haven
Haven: Season 1, Episode 3 “Harmony” (C+)
That’s three for three now on a different family member/spouse possessing a power than originally thought. Even though it’s a commonly used device on crime dramas, it’s becoming increasingly tiresome here (especially when I’m tuning into another Syfy show, “Warehouse 13,” which often plays out exactly the same way). This is by far the least intriguing and engaging of the three installments of this show that have aired thus far. Perhaps it’s that the music plotline doesn’t exactly resound as much as it should. Additionally, having one of the main characters fall prey to the mysterious spell cast by the husband’s music is a dangerous line to cross. In this case, seeing him rant and rave about how great it must be to feel pain isn’t nearly as compelling as the show seems to think it is. While I haven’t yet warmed to Audrey or decided against her, I’ve never been terribly intrigued by Nathan as a character. Duke doesn’t really cut it either, and what happened to all of the other townsfolk? Shouldn’t they be around to answer Audrey’s question about her mother, instead of having the only person with any information sail off into the distance? I’m not sure this show is going to cut it, unless it brings in some serious reinforcements in terms of regular characters and original plotlines that don’t involve obvious familial twists. I didn’t want to just drop off and stop reviewing this show, but if next week doesn’t thrill, don’t be surprised if you don’t see a review.
That’s three for three now on a different family member/spouse possessing a power than originally thought. Even though it’s a commonly used device on crime dramas, it’s becoming increasingly tiresome here (especially when I’m tuning into another Syfy show, “Warehouse 13,” which often plays out exactly the same way). This is by far the least intriguing and engaging of the three installments of this show that have aired thus far. Perhaps it’s that the music plotline doesn’t exactly resound as much as it should. Additionally, having one of the main characters fall prey to the mysterious spell cast by the husband’s music is a dangerous line to cross. In this case, seeing him rant and rave about how great it must be to feel pain isn’t nearly as compelling as the show seems to think it is. While I haven’t yet warmed to Audrey or decided against her, I’ve never been terribly intrigued by Nathan as a character. Duke doesn’t really cut it either, and what happened to all of the other townsfolk? Shouldn’t they be around to answer Audrey’s question about her mother, instead of having the only person with any information sail off into the distance? I’m not sure this show is going to cut it, unless it brings in some serious reinforcements in terms of regular characters and original plotlines that don’t involve obvious familial twists. I didn’t want to just drop off and stop reviewing this show, but if next week doesn’t thrill, don’t be surprised if you don’t see a review.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
What I’m Watching: Royal Pains
Royal Pains: Season 2, Episode 7 “Comfort’s Overrated” (B+)
At this point, I’m starting to come around to the idea that if I’m able to predict what’s wrong with patients, that means I’m an intellectual viewer rather than something negative or repetitive about the show itself. Each episode continues to be a blast, so if the big reveal about someone’s condition doesn’t floor me, I think that’s alright. The presence of Dr. Emily Peck and her rival concierge doctor service, minus the bickering support team, of course, helps makes this episode all the more entertaining. What’s particularly fun about it is the relationship between Hank and Emily. Her saying “you stoled my client” and “go Danish” are certainly puzzling, but she did have a good recovery when she debated the true difference between Dutch and Danish. I’d like to see more of their professional clashing and personal flirting. On the guest star front, we have Ian Gomez, also known as Andy from “Cougar Town,” as the husband who can’t stop hitting on every woman and pissing off his wife. Sadly, his role here was hardly as fun as his part on ABC’s misnamed comedy series. The concept of the faux-beau was enjoyable, although seeing poor Evan have a great day and then suddenly be cast side and subsequently overhear that she thought it was the worst day ever was quite sad. Maybe they’ll embark on a true romance now that her Cairo-bound boyfriend is out of the picture? There may be some competition, however, since Divya is destined to be with someone else other than her fiancé, and I doubt I’m the only one who suspects it’s Evan.
At this point, I’m starting to come around to the idea that if I’m able to predict what’s wrong with patients, that means I’m an intellectual viewer rather than something negative or repetitive about the show itself. Each episode continues to be a blast, so if the big reveal about someone’s condition doesn’t floor me, I think that’s alright. The presence of Dr. Emily Peck and her rival concierge doctor service, minus the bickering support team, of course, helps makes this episode all the more entertaining. What’s particularly fun about it is the relationship between Hank and Emily. Her saying “you stoled my client” and “go Danish” are certainly puzzling, but she did have a good recovery when she debated the true difference between Dutch and Danish. I’d like to see more of their professional clashing and personal flirting. On the guest star front, we have Ian Gomez, also known as Andy from “Cougar Town,” as the husband who can’t stop hitting on every woman and pissing off his wife. Sadly, his role here was hardly as fun as his part on ABC’s misnamed comedy series. The concept of the faux-beau was enjoyable, although seeing poor Evan have a great day and then suddenly be cast side and subsequently overhear that she thought it was the worst day ever was quite sad. Maybe they’ll embark on a true romance now that her Cairo-bound boyfriend is out of the picture? There may be some competition, however, since Divya is destined to be with someone else other than her fiancé, and I doubt I’m the only one who suspects it’s Evan.
AFT Awards: Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
This is the seventh category of the 4th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television this past season. This year, semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work being done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.
Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
Last year’s nominees: Adam Baldwin, Rhys Darby, Chi McBride, John Krasinski, Rainn Wilson
Emmy nominees: Ty Burrell, Chris Colfer, Jon Cryer, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Neil Patrick Harris, Eric Stonestreet
Semi-finalists: Bruce Campbell (Burn Notice), Paulo Costanzo (Royal Pains), Jesse Tyler Ferguson (Modern Family), Jason Gray-Stanford (Monk), Ed Helms (The Office), Dulé Hill (Psych), Ted Levine (Monk), Rainn Wilson (The Office)
Finalists: Ed O’Neill (Modern Family) showed himself to be very layered after he gradually made his gruff patriarch somewhat sweet and endearing. Adam Baldwin (Chuck) didn’t have the spotlight in the show’s third season but that didn’t stop him from stealing every scene. Jeremy Piven (Entourage) and Rex Lee (Entourage) continued to make their declining show entertaining as they both found surprising new career options only slightly separate from each other. John Krasinski (The Office) couldn’t succeed as a manager, but his heartfelt portrayal of the new husband and father was one of the strongest parts of the show’s uneven season.
The nominees:
Nick Offerman (Parks and Recreation) was magnificently unconcerned with efficiency at his job and monumentally entertaining as the inimitable Ron Swanson. Eric Stonestreet (Modern Family) could have created a flat stereotype, but instead crafted one of the most lavish and lovable characters on television. Eric Schaeffer (Gravity) was unrelenting in his fascinating portrayal of a peculiar cop with absolutely no filter who made his show worth watching even before it found its footing. Aziz Ansari (Parks and Recreation) didn’t have as much to do as the rest of his cast, but he never let an opportunity for a dumb or inappropriate comment get by him.
The winner:
Ty Burrell (Modern Family) found a perfect role for his droll humor and created a fantastically uncool dad who turned out to be the funniest new character on the funniest new comedy of the season.
Next up: Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
Last year’s nominees: Adam Baldwin, Rhys Darby, Chi McBride, John Krasinski, Rainn Wilson
Emmy nominees: Ty Burrell, Chris Colfer, Jon Cryer, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Neil Patrick Harris, Eric Stonestreet
Semi-finalists: Bruce Campbell (Burn Notice), Paulo Costanzo (Royal Pains), Jesse Tyler Ferguson (Modern Family), Jason Gray-Stanford (Monk), Ed Helms (The Office), Dulé Hill (Psych), Ted Levine (Monk), Rainn Wilson (The Office)
Finalists: Ed O’Neill (Modern Family) showed himself to be very layered after he gradually made his gruff patriarch somewhat sweet and endearing. Adam Baldwin (Chuck) didn’t have the spotlight in the show’s third season but that didn’t stop him from stealing every scene. Jeremy Piven (Entourage) and Rex Lee (Entourage) continued to make their declining show entertaining as they both found surprising new career options only slightly separate from each other. John Krasinski (The Office) couldn’t succeed as a manager, but his heartfelt portrayal of the new husband and father was one of the strongest parts of the show’s uneven season.
The nominees:
Nick Offerman (Parks and Recreation) was magnificently unconcerned with efficiency at his job and monumentally entertaining as the inimitable Ron Swanson. Eric Stonestreet (Modern Family) could have created a flat stereotype, but instead crafted one of the most lavish and lovable characters on television. Eric Schaeffer (Gravity) was unrelenting in his fascinating portrayal of a peculiar cop with absolutely no filter who made his show worth watching even before it found its footing. Aziz Ansari (Parks and Recreation) didn’t have as much to do as the rest of his cast, but he never let an opportunity for a dumb or inappropriate comment get by him.
The winner:
Ty Burrell (Modern Family) found a perfect role for his droll humor and created a fantastically uncool dad who turned out to be the funniest new character on the funniest new comedy of the season.
Next up: Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
What I’m Watching: Burn Notice
Burn Notice: Season 4, Episode 7 “Past & Future Tense” (B+)
It's quite a catch for this show to get Burt Reynolds to guest star as an old spy accidentally thrust back into the game and in need of some assistance from one Michael Westen. What's cool about this episode is that it does deviate considerably from the normal client-of-the-week episode because Jesse is the one in need of help and they just happen to come upon some seemingly criminal activity and Michael and company feel the need to start investigating. Reynolds is definitely a fun addition for this installment. The notion, reinforced by the title of this episode, that Reynolds’ Paul is the future version of Michael, is quite intriguing, but there’s also just the pure entertainment value of having the two of them on screen together. Michael yelling at Paul to “stop that” when he’s shooting at the Russians was particularly fun, and Paul’s closing assertion that he has the right to kill some Russians if they invade Florida was amusing as well. Madeline’s role in getting the congressman to meet with Paul was fantastic, and it gave her a great scene as well as a terrific departing quote: “That sounds like a really bad idea. I think I’ll just take a cab.” The casting of funnyman Richard Kind as Jesse’s generally humorless and scared boss is questionable, but it worked out fine and gave Fiona something enjoyable to do. The final scene with Fiona smacking Michael and then going at him a second time was a more dramatic closer, bringing back the idea that Jesse is going to want to seriously hurt Michael when he inevitably finds out that Michael was responsible for burning him.
It's quite a catch for this show to get Burt Reynolds to guest star as an old spy accidentally thrust back into the game and in need of some assistance from one Michael Westen. What's cool about this episode is that it does deviate considerably from the normal client-of-the-week episode because Jesse is the one in need of help and they just happen to come upon some seemingly criminal activity and Michael and company feel the need to start investigating. Reynolds is definitely a fun addition for this installment. The notion, reinforced by the title of this episode, that Reynolds’ Paul is the future version of Michael, is quite intriguing, but there’s also just the pure entertainment value of having the two of them on screen together. Michael yelling at Paul to “stop that” when he’s shooting at the Russians was particularly fun, and Paul’s closing assertion that he has the right to kill some Russians if they invade Florida was amusing as well. Madeline’s role in getting the congressman to meet with Paul was fantastic, and it gave her a great scene as well as a terrific departing quote: “That sounds like a really bad idea. I think I’ll just take a cab.” The casting of funnyman Richard Kind as Jesse’s generally humorless and scared boss is questionable, but it worked out fine and gave Fiona something enjoyable to do. The final scene with Fiona smacking Michael and then going at him a second time was a more dramatic closer, bringing back the idea that Jesse is going to want to seriously hurt Michael when he inevitably finds out that Michael was responsible for burning him.
Cool news: read about this Sam-centric prequel movie in the works, announced at Comic-Con last week.
Monday, July 26, 2010
What I’m Watching: Psych
Psych: Season 5, Episode 2 “Feet Don’t Kill Me Now” (B+)
If any show exists that is able to get away with one of its cops tap dancing right as a murderer is about to confess, it’s this show. The fact that Gus (and Dulé Hill, it appears) happens to be an excellent tap dancer certainly helps, though this show is also able to pull off having Lassie perform with the little kids at the end of the episode and make a startling realization about the identity of the West Side Rapist. What’s most fun about this episode is the wacky pairings it presents in Lassie and Gus and Shawn and Juliet, and they’re both equally entertaining. Gus’ surprise at being introduced by his real name and his pharmaceutical knowledge mixed with Lassie’s over-sharing about his divorce-related therapy worked great, and Shawn and Juliet were a lot of fun too. It’s especially strange that they went on a date afterwards considering just how immature Juliet thinks Shawn is. Henry’s success at punishing Shawn even when he’s doing something nice for him, as Shawn pointed out, was brilliant, and while it appears to signal less of the chief, having Henry in that position is working out positively. I was certainly impressed by the flirtatiousness of the lab tech who was revealed to have no authority, but I’m less taken by the guest spot by Lauren Lee Smith, who once had to be tested to determine her sexual orientation on “The L Word” when her chef character sent tennis player Dana food with no other clues about her intentions, as the ultimately-revealed killer. It’s not a part that needed to come alive, but I’ve enjoyed Smith’s parts in the past, and this one was less than memorable. Shawn's mistaken belief that it was 2008, however, had me chuckling for quite a while.
If any show exists that is able to get away with one of its cops tap dancing right as a murderer is about to confess, it’s this show. The fact that Gus (and Dulé Hill, it appears) happens to be an excellent tap dancer certainly helps, though this show is also able to pull off having Lassie perform with the little kids at the end of the episode and make a startling realization about the identity of the West Side Rapist. What’s most fun about this episode is the wacky pairings it presents in Lassie and Gus and Shawn and Juliet, and they’re both equally entertaining. Gus’ surprise at being introduced by his real name and his pharmaceutical knowledge mixed with Lassie’s over-sharing about his divorce-related therapy worked great, and Shawn and Juliet were a lot of fun too. It’s especially strange that they went on a date afterwards considering just how immature Juliet thinks Shawn is. Henry’s success at punishing Shawn even when he’s doing something nice for him, as Shawn pointed out, was brilliant, and while it appears to signal less of the chief, having Henry in that position is working out positively. I was certainly impressed by the flirtatiousness of the lab tech who was revealed to have no authority, but I’m less taken by the guest spot by Lauren Lee Smith, who once had to be tested to determine her sexual orientation on “The L Word” when her chef character sent tennis player Dana food with no other clues about her intentions, as the ultimately-revealed killer. It’s not a part that needed to come alive, but I’ve enjoyed Smith’s parts in the past, and this one was less than memorable. Shawn's mistaken belief that it was 2008, however, had me chuckling for quite a while.
AFT Awards: Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
This is the sixth category of the 4th Annual AFT Television Awards, my personal choices for the best in television this past season. This year, semi-finalists are included to recognize more of the impressive work being done on television today. Nominees are pictured in the order I’ve ranked them.
Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
Last year’s nominees: Hope Davis, Marcia Gay Harden, Tricia Helfer, Elizabeth Mitchell, Alison Pill
Emmy nominees: Christine Baranski, Rose Byrne, Sharon Gless, Christina Hendricks, Elisabeth Moss, Archie Panjabi
Semi-finalists: Morena Baccarin (V), Christine Baranski (The Good Wife), Erika Christensen (Parenthood), Christina Hendricks (Mad Men), Archie Panjabi (The Good Wife), Callie Thorne (Rescue Me), Laura Vandervoort (V), Natalie Zea (Justified)
Finalists: Linda Hunt (NCIS: Los Angeles) was unflinchingly hilarious as Hetty and managed to create an NCIS boss worthy of comparison to Gibbs. Mae Whitman (Parenthood) impressed just as much as the adults as the intelligent but troubled Amber. Michelle Forbes (True Blood) was fearsome and deliciously insane as the unstoppable Maryann. Kim Dickens (Treme) was an excellent representative of New Orleans tradition, struggling to keep her restaurant and the spirit of her city alive. Deborah Ann Woll (True Blood) turned what could have been a disaster of a character into a sympathetic, endearing new addition.
The nominees:
Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men) kept Peggy grounded as she started to see what her future might look like and began to debate other options. Joelle Carter (Justified) was instantly alluring and charming, and was just as unforgettable to audiences as she was to Raylan. Amy Acker (Dollhouse) proved to be someone completely different that she had seemed, and the transformation was fantastic. Tina Marjorino (The Deep End) was a wonderful, quirky part of an all too short-lived legal show who needs to be getting more work immediately.
The winner:
Maggie Siff (Sons of Anarchy) transformed completely when her character finally accepted her role as a SAMCRO old lady and beat the hell out of her hospital supervisor, creating an unrecognizable woman out of a once-timid girl.
Next up: Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
Last year’s nominees: Hope Davis, Marcia Gay Harden, Tricia Helfer, Elizabeth Mitchell, Alison Pill
Emmy nominees: Christine Baranski, Rose Byrne, Sharon Gless, Christina Hendricks, Elisabeth Moss, Archie Panjabi
Semi-finalists: Morena Baccarin (V), Christine Baranski (The Good Wife), Erika Christensen (Parenthood), Christina Hendricks (Mad Men), Archie Panjabi (The Good Wife), Callie Thorne (Rescue Me), Laura Vandervoort (V), Natalie Zea (Justified)
Finalists: Linda Hunt (NCIS: Los Angeles) was unflinchingly hilarious as Hetty and managed to create an NCIS boss worthy of comparison to Gibbs. Mae Whitman (Parenthood) impressed just as much as the adults as the intelligent but troubled Amber. Michelle Forbes (True Blood) was fearsome and deliciously insane as the unstoppable Maryann. Kim Dickens (Treme) was an excellent representative of New Orleans tradition, struggling to keep her restaurant and the spirit of her city alive. Deborah Ann Woll (True Blood) turned what could have been a disaster of a character into a sympathetic, endearing new addition.
The nominees:
Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men) kept Peggy grounded as she started to see what her future might look like and began to debate other options. Joelle Carter (Justified) was instantly alluring and charming, and was just as unforgettable to audiences as she was to Raylan. Amy Acker (Dollhouse) proved to be someone completely different that she had seemed, and the transformation was fantastic. Tina Marjorino (The Deep End) was a wonderful, quirky part of an all too short-lived legal show who needs to be getting more work immediately.
The winner:
Maggie Siff (Sons of Anarchy) transformed completely when her character finally accepted her role as a SAMCRO old lady and beat the hell out of her hospital supervisor, creating an unrecognizable woman out of a once-timid girl.
Next up: Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
What I’m Watching: Rescue Me
Rescue Me: Season 6, Episode 4 “Breakout” (B+)
This episode marks a great return to one of the things “Rescue Me” does best: comedy played out as a result of brotherhood. It’s not a moving dramatic installment necessarily, but it is an entertaining hour than makes great use of all the characters. Lou’s nurse is extremely helpful in kicking that off by pointing out everyone’s flaws, which resounds particularly for Black Shawn, who is dismayed to learn that his eyes are too far apart. Franco’s charm is quite hilarious, and the positioning of all of the firemen as doctors, orderlies, and random people standing by was magnificently comical. Black Shawn’s failure to name any black doctors by first citing Dr. Bill Cosby, then Dr. Huxtable, and then Reverend Sharpton was very amusing, and it’s a treat to see the character get a chance to embarrass himself since he’s usually the voice of reason, compared to Sean and Mike in particular. Sean staying with his friend at the hospital was touching, though of course he isn’t quite able to deliver by immediately admitting that he doesn’t have some grand plan to take care of him. Tommy’s visit with Father Phil proved much more powerful than expected, and Father Phil, played by the always-great Peter Gallagher, is quite a fun character, asking awkwardly if he can keep the photo of Janet after insisting that Tommy needs to look at it again. Tommy’s misconception about Franco and Janet, made even more tragic by the fact that Franco didn’t let anything happen while it seems like Janet probably would have, is a major setback for the not-too-forward-moving Tommy, and I imagine tensions will begin to explode in the next episode and just go downhill from there.
This episode marks a great return to one of the things “Rescue Me” does best: comedy played out as a result of brotherhood. It’s not a moving dramatic installment necessarily, but it is an entertaining hour than makes great use of all the characters. Lou’s nurse is extremely helpful in kicking that off by pointing out everyone’s flaws, which resounds particularly for Black Shawn, who is dismayed to learn that his eyes are too far apart. Franco’s charm is quite hilarious, and the positioning of all of the firemen as doctors, orderlies, and random people standing by was magnificently comical. Black Shawn’s failure to name any black doctors by first citing Dr. Bill Cosby, then Dr. Huxtable, and then Reverend Sharpton was very amusing, and it’s a treat to see the character get a chance to embarrass himself since he’s usually the voice of reason, compared to Sean and Mike in particular. Sean staying with his friend at the hospital was touching, though of course he isn’t quite able to deliver by immediately admitting that he doesn’t have some grand plan to take care of him. Tommy’s visit with Father Phil proved much more powerful than expected, and Father Phil, played by the always-great Peter Gallagher, is quite a fun character, asking awkwardly if he can keep the photo of Janet after insisting that Tommy needs to look at it again. Tommy’s misconception about Franco and Janet, made even more tragic by the fact that Franco didn’t let anything happen while it seems like Janet probably would have, is a major setback for the not-too-forward-moving Tommy, and I imagine tensions will begin to explode in the next episode and just go downhill from there.
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