Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 4, Episode 8 (B-)
Though this season has been a glorious and unfortunate disappointment, this finale is rather fitting. Belle needs to look back on her choices, her men, and her life, to determine whether she is truly on the right path. Ben has been a constant in her life, but since they actually got together as a couple, things haven’t been nearly as smooth, and they’re just not going to last. It was wholly appropriate, and rather effective, to have Belle meet with a client who recognized her from their days in school together. Seeing Belle, or rather, Hannah, be so open and honest about why she went into this profession and how she enjoys sex, is refreshing, particularly for this character who has been tarnished by the ways in which she’s changed this season. The presence of her cop suitor makes sense given his prominence in this season, but his relevance to her life, and to the entirety of the series, shouldn’t be overestimated or misinterpreted. For a show that has added and taken away cast members each season, leaving only Belle and Ben throughout, it’s primarily a one-woman show, and that’s something that Billie Piper, especially in the first three seasons, has done commendably. While I’d like to pretend that this particular season didn’t exist, it honestly wasn’t nearly as bad as many other shows have been after they’re jumped the shark or transformed their characters. Essentially, it could have been a lot worse, and I think I’ll still think of it favorably in the future.
Season grade: C
Season MVP: Lily James as Poppy
Series grade: B+
Series MVP: Billie Piper
Showing posts with label Secret Diary of a Call Girl. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Secret Diary of a Call Girl. Show all posts
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
What I’m Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 4, Episode 7 (C)
It’s not often that a character sleeps in a coffin on a show that isn’t “True Blood” or another vampire-related drama. Why ruin that chance for creativity by having said character die during the act? This show used to be unpredictable, and even if some of it was predictable, it was more impressive than this. Such an event just serves to make everything else seem trivial, and the happenstance presence of Belle’s new civil servant suitor is too much. He does seem to be an overly understanding and sympathetic figure who still wants to give Belle a run for her money, yet somehow I’d imagine that, if there were more time, he’d turn into just the latest Alex or Duncan, albeit too cocky and sure of himself from the start. I’m continually baffled by Ben’s stupidity, agreeing to go meet Poppy when he knows that she’s interested in him. Also, a point of contention: when Belle said that she’d never lied to Ben, was that supposed to include only this season? He certainly didn’t know about what she did for a living for a while, and he hasn’t gotten all that much more perceptive. Additionally, she’s not overly honest with him, and for her to say something like that is just preposterous. Next week is this show’s series finale, and eight episodes too late, it’s definitely fine. Here’s hoping to some refreshing closure that will make this season half-worthwhile. I’ll definitely have to go back and watch some of the earlier seasons since this used to be one of my favorite shows.
It’s not often that a character sleeps in a coffin on a show that isn’t “True Blood” or another vampire-related drama. Why ruin that chance for creativity by having said character die during the act? This show used to be unpredictable, and even if some of it was predictable, it was more impressive than this. Such an event just serves to make everything else seem trivial, and the happenstance presence of Belle’s new civil servant suitor is too much. He does seem to be an overly understanding and sympathetic figure who still wants to give Belle a run for her money, yet somehow I’d imagine that, if there were more time, he’d turn into just the latest Alex or Duncan, albeit too cocky and sure of himself from the start. I’m continually baffled by Ben’s stupidity, agreeing to go meet Poppy when he knows that she’s interested in him. Also, a point of contention: when Belle said that she’d never lied to Ben, was that supposed to include only this season? He certainly didn’t know about what she did for a living for a while, and he hasn’t gotten all that much more perceptive. Additionally, she’s not overly honest with him, and for her to say something like that is just preposterous. Next week is this show’s series finale, and eight episodes too late, it’s definitely fine. Here’s hoping to some refreshing closure that will make this season half-worthwhile. I’ll definitely have to go back and watch some of the earlier seasons since this used to be one of my favorite shows.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
What I’m Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 4, Episode 6 (C-)
This show has become a caricature of itself. I know that I've been railing on this show every week for this whole season, but somehow each episode of this miserable year manages to outdo itself in terms of putting in too much effort to seem stylized, risque, and appealing. As if the usage of music from "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly" and "Kill Bill" to score the face-off between Charlotte and Belle wasn't enough, the insertion of titles proclaiming "the good, the bad, the bartender" really sent it over the top, and wasn't funny to boot! Theoretically, Charlotte as a character and a nemesis for the (formerly) friendly Belle is a good idea, but she doesn't have the subtlety of someone like Stephanie, who was a whole lot of fun in her early and infrequent appearances over the course of the show's first three seasons. Their warring attempts to please their client were such a waste of time, and it's so blatant and on the surface that there isn't much hope for any deeper meaning, an area in which this show used to excel. I'm also displeased with how Poppy has devolved into an uninteresting character, hopping into bed with Ben to get Belle to leave and then not even trying to make up a story about how they slept together to sell it and keep her away. Ah, well, two more episodes to go, and after that I think I'll have to go back and rewatch the first three seasons to remind myself that this show used to be top-notch.
This show has become a caricature of itself. I know that I've been railing on this show every week for this whole season, but somehow each episode of this miserable year manages to outdo itself in terms of putting in too much effort to seem stylized, risque, and appealing. As if the usage of music from "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly" and "Kill Bill" to score the face-off between Charlotte and Belle wasn't enough, the insertion of titles proclaiming "the good, the bad, the bartender" really sent it over the top, and wasn't funny to boot! Theoretically, Charlotte as a character and a nemesis for the (formerly) friendly Belle is a good idea, but she doesn't have the subtlety of someone like Stephanie, who was a whole lot of fun in her early and infrequent appearances over the course of the show's first three seasons. Their warring attempts to please their client were such a waste of time, and it's so blatant and on the surface that there isn't much hope for any deeper meaning, an area in which this show used to excel. I'm also displeased with how Poppy has devolved into an uninteresting character, hopping into bed with Ben to get Belle to leave and then not even trying to make up a story about how they slept together to sell it and keep her away. Ah, well, two more episodes to go, and after that I think I'll have to go back and rewatch the first three seasons to remind myself that this show used to be top-notch.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
What I’m Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 4, Episode 5 (C)
I don’t mean to beat a dead horse here, but this show continues to play into exactly the kind of problematic and disappointing things I’ve been writing about all season. It’s perhaps most disheartening because, unlike “Heroes” or “Prison Break,” this is a show that I would never have imagined could reach a nadir of quality where I had little to no interest in tuning in each week, only bothering to watch to see what will become of my formerly favorable characters. I was most outraged and saddened by just how awkward and uncomfortable it was watching Belle feel awkward and uncomfortable watching the director and his muse act our their version of a scene from her book. This show was never a caricature of itself, even and especially when it came to people with strange desires. Turning this into a horrible parody of itself is going to echo another Showtime series in its final season, “The L Word,” another show which went downhill only to never look back to its former quality. It’s hard to believe, however, that this director and actress could really be so dumb and completely unaware of how their behavior appears (that’s better saved for yet another Showtime series, this one still in its prime, “Episodes”). Belle is nonetheless so horribly judgmental, and it’s painful to see. Ben kissing Poppy is probably one of the stupidest things he’s ever done, and let’s hope that Belle doesn’t find out, because she is going to be furious. At least Charlotte did something productive in this episode and helped open up Poppy a bit.
I don’t mean to beat a dead horse here, but this show continues to play into exactly the kind of problematic and disappointing things I’ve been writing about all season. It’s perhaps most disheartening because, unlike “Heroes” or “Prison Break,” this is a show that I would never have imagined could reach a nadir of quality where I had little to no interest in tuning in each week, only bothering to watch to see what will become of my formerly favorable characters. I was most outraged and saddened by just how awkward and uncomfortable it was watching Belle feel awkward and uncomfortable watching the director and his muse act our their version of a scene from her book. This show was never a caricature of itself, even and especially when it came to people with strange desires. Turning this into a horrible parody of itself is going to echo another Showtime series in its final season, “The L Word,” another show which went downhill only to never look back to its former quality. It’s hard to believe, however, that this director and actress could really be so dumb and completely unaware of how their behavior appears (that’s better saved for yet another Showtime series, this one still in its prime, “Episodes”). Belle is nonetheless so horribly judgmental, and it’s painful to see. Ben kissing Poppy is probably one of the stupidest things he’s ever done, and let’s hope that Belle doesn’t find out, because she is going to be furious. At least Charlotte did something productive in this episode and helped open up Poppy a bit.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
What I’m Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 4, Episode 4 (C+)
It’s so painful watching this show now that it has been so hopelessly transformed. Fortunately, there are only four episodes left in its run, so it can’t go much farther downhill, and the only character I’m following with any interest now is Poppy. It was somewhat worthwhile and interesting to see Poppy come face-to-face with Stephanie and bring Belle along with her. Following it up with that sequence of Belle walking back through the bushes, however, was yet another instance of the bizarre, off-putting style this show has mysteriously chosen to adopt this season. I can’t quite understand its appeal, and it’s even more apparent in every scene in which the detestable Charlotte appears, preparing her food while Belle is with her client. The number one thing that didn’t track with Belle’s former personality in this episode is her reaction to seeing him in his diaper. The old Belle dealt with plenty of weird stuff, and never acted remotely annoyed about any of it. I remember in particular a shot that I used in a montage I made of her getting pied in the face, looking so genuinely excited. Sure, Charlotte is cold and manipulative as anything to her, but she underwent this peculiar intra-season transformation before that. The use of music towards the end of the episode when Belle and Ben just weren’t doing well reminded me immediately and only of the underrated Sofia Coppola film “Somewhere,” in which the same music was used to much greater effect. Let’s hope for better in the back half of this season.
It’s so painful watching this show now that it has been so hopelessly transformed. Fortunately, there are only four episodes left in its run, so it can’t go much farther downhill, and the only character I’m following with any interest now is Poppy. It was somewhat worthwhile and interesting to see Poppy come face-to-face with Stephanie and bring Belle along with her. Following it up with that sequence of Belle walking back through the bushes, however, was yet another instance of the bizarre, off-putting style this show has mysteriously chosen to adopt this season. I can’t quite understand its appeal, and it’s even more apparent in every scene in which the detestable Charlotte appears, preparing her food while Belle is with her client. The number one thing that didn’t track with Belle’s former personality in this episode is her reaction to seeing him in his diaper. The old Belle dealt with plenty of weird stuff, and never acted remotely annoyed about any of it. I remember in particular a shot that I used in a montage I made of her getting pied in the face, looking so genuinely excited. Sure, Charlotte is cold and manipulative as anything to her, but she underwent this peculiar intra-season transformation before that. The use of music towards the end of the episode when Belle and Ben just weren’t doing well reminded me immediately and only of the underrated Sofia Coppola film “Somewhere,” in which the same music was used to much greater effect. Let’s hope for better in the back half of this season.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
What I’m Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 4, Episode 3 (B-)
It’s tough to watch a show after things have been changed for the worse and it doesn’t seem like it will ever be possible to get back to the way things were. This happened with “The L Word” when it started its third season, and for the next three years, it couldn’t hope to recapture the same quality it had before that. This show isn’t quite there yet, but I’m still disappointed every time I see this new Belle with a giant ego and a sarcastic mean streak that she never used to have. The introduction of this police officer interested in romancing Belle is decently intriguing, but it seems as if he just came out of nowhere and is inserting himself into Belle’s life in a way that she would not deem acceptable, making her lack of protest all the more puzzling. The discovery of her mother’s true business by Poppy was something that was going to have to happen eventually, but did Belle need to be so careless about it? She had escorts coming by the house and discussing business with whoever answered the door, had photographers coming by to hand-deliver seductive pictures, and went by her escort name rather than her real name. The acting Lily James as Poppy, however, was quite strong, and that counts for something. It’s nice to have one bright spot on an otherwise (currently) unimpressive show, and I do hope that her latest realization doesn’t mean an imminent departure for her from the show.
It’s tough to watch a show after things have been changed for the worse and it doesn’t seem like it will ever be possible to get back to the way things were. This happened with “The L Word” when it started its third season, and for the next three years, it couldn’t hope to recapture the same quality it had before that. This show isn’t quite there yet, but I’m still disappointed every time I see this new Belle with a giant ego and a sarcastic mean streak that she never used to have. The introduction of this police officer interested in romancing Belle is decently intriguing, but it seems as if he just came out of nowhere and is inserting himself into Belle’s life in a way that she would not deem acceptable, making her lack of protest all the more puzzling. The discovery of her mother’s true business by Poppy was something that was going to have to happen eventually, but did Belle need to be so careless about it? She had escorts coming by the house and discussing business with whoever answered the door, had photographers coming by to hand-deliver seductive pictures, and went by her escort name rather than her real name. The acting Lily James as Poppy, however, was quite strong, and that counts for something. It’s nice to have one bright spot on an otherwise (currently) unimpressive show, and I do hope that her latest realization doesn’t mean an imminent departure for her from the show.
Monday, April 18, 2011
What I’m Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 4, Episode 2 (C+)
There comes a point in the run of some shows where suddenly things just don’t feel like they used to anymore. I often wonder whether the show actually used to be that much better or if I simply remembered it more fondly for whatever reason. I do think that there has been a noticeable shift in how this show operates, and it saddens me. What seems to be the problem is an inflation of ego. This show was surprisingly unassuming when it first started, and part of what made it appealing was the fact that Belle really is very sweet and likeable. She now seems completely self-centered and it’s as if Billie Piper is playing an entirely different character. It’s a huge disappointment because she used to be so great, and now I find her character off-putting, and not in an intriguing way. Her session with the virgin is a particularly strong example for an unexplained personality shift since she used to always be supportive of her clients, no matter what they did or didn’t want to do. I don’t like her new associates, and one of them is particularly prickly and unfriendly. I want to see more of Stephanie’s daughter and have her get involved with everything, because I think she’s an intriguing character, and may be the last best thing on this show that could make this final season, so far removed already from what came before, worth watching. I would hate for this show to go out on a negative note.
There comes a point in the run of some shows where suddenly things just don’t feel like they used to anymore. I often wonder whether the show actually used to be that much better or if I simply remembered it more fondly for whatever reason. I do think that there has been a noticeable shift in how this show operates, and it saddens me. What seems to be the problem is an inflation of ego. This show was surprisingly unassuming when it first started, and part of what made it appealing was the fact that Belle really is very sweet and likeable. She now seems completely self-centered and it’s as if Billie Piper is playing an entirely different character. It’s a huge disappointment because she used to be so great, and now I find her character off-putting, and not in an intriguing way. Her session with the virgin is a particularly strong example for an unexplained personality shift since she used to always be supportive of her clients, no matter what they did or didn’t want to do. I don’t like her new associates, and one of them is particularly prickly and unfriendly. I want to see more of Stephanie’s daughter and have her get involved with everything, because I think she’s an intriguing character, and may be the last best thing on this show that could make this final season, so far removed already from what came before, worth watching. I would hate for this show to go out on a negative note.
Monday, April 11, 2011
What I’m Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl (Season Premiere)
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 4, Episode 1 (B)
I’m so very happy to have Belle, one of television’s best characters, back, even if it’ sonly for one final eight-episode season. What’s somewhat less pleasant is the state of the show as compared to what it once was. Now I haven’t even come close to starting to turn my back on it; it’s just that change sometimes isn’t as delightful as it might otherwise be. That is to say that I greatly miss Bambi and the way things used to be. It’s nice to see Belle showing off a tour of her new place (“So much to tell you”), yet I didn’t mind a Belle of simpler, albeit still elegant, means. Ben was always a fantastic character, and its newfound alternation between cocky guy and hopeless stalker doesn’t suit him entirely well. There’s much more comedy in this episode than I remember from the show in the past, especially when it comes to Liam, who, to his credit, does seem like a strong new character. There a lot of cuts to imagined visuals that I don’t recall being there before, and they’re occasionally jarring. Fortunately, there are plenty of familiar elements that still work just as well as they always did. The characterization of Stephanie, most notably through the reveal of what was in her trunk, is still exceptionally well-done and over-the-top, and I think that her daughter could make for a good new Bambi prototype, albeit less self-confident and far more ignorant about the business. Ben making a pro and con chart on the wall was a fun scene, and I’m curious to know what becomes of him and Belle. The setup of Liam as Stephanie’s lawyer and then a client of Belle’s was smart, and the judge sex scene was pretty fabulous and hilarious. The show’s best element remains its usage of music, most specifically “Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps” in this episode. I’m looking forward to the remaining seven episodes; I’d just like to see the show find its groove once again before we really get to the end.
I’m so very happy to have Belle, one of television’s best characters, back, even if it’ sonly for one final eight-episode season. What’s somewhat less pleasant is the state of the show as compared to what it once was. Now I haven’t even come close to starting to turn my back on it; it’s just that change sometimes isn’t as delightful as it might otherwise be. That is to say that I greatly miss Bambi and the way things used to be. It’s nice to see Belle showing off a tour of her new place (“So much to tell you”), yet I didn’t mind a Belle of simpler, albeit still elegant, means. Ben was always a fantastic character, and its newfound alternation between cocky guy and hopeless stalker doesn’t suit him entirely well. There’s much more comedy in this episode than I remember from the show in the past, especially when it comes to Liam, who, to his credit, does seem like a strong new character. There a lot of cuts to imagined visuals that I don’t recall being there before, and they’re occasionally jarring. Fortunately, there are plenty of familiar elements that still work just as well as they always did. The characterization of Stephanie, most notably through the reveal of what was in her trunk, is still exceptionally well-done and over-the-top, and I think that her daughter could make for a good new Bambi prototype, albeit less self-confident and far more ignorant about the business. Ben making a pro and con chart on the wall was a fun scene, and I’m curious to know what becomes of him and Belle. The setup of Liam as Stephanie’s lawyer and then a client of Belle’s was smart, and the judge sex scene was pretty fabulous and hilarious. The show’s best element remains its usage of music, most specifically “Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps” in this episode. I’m looking forward to the remaining seven episodes; I’d just like to see the show find its groove once again before we really get to the end.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
What I’m Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl (Season Finale)
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 3, Episodes 7 & 8 (B+)
If this season has to end so quickly, at least we get a double dose of it as a parting gift. The first of the two episodes was alternately amusing and shocking. The male escort was very funny, and it was entertaining to see Belle in the other role and how she tried to act differently in order to get the full experience. His reaction to her confession that she was doing research was equally enjoyable. The big surprise is that Duncan isn’t actually a good guy, and even though his duplicity was revealed at the same time that Belle was stepping out on her beau, so to speak, the important thing to remember is that he did it with no prior knowledge of any of her activities. The look on Bambi’s face when she recognizes Duncan contrasted with the blissful ignorant happiness on Belle’s is just heartbreaking. Fortunately, Bambi’s wedding wasn’t at all ruined by her having to tell Belle about Duncan’s true color. Playing the song “Wonderwall” softly in the background while Bambi was breaking the news to Belle was also quite effective. Belle had some great quotes in this episode, including “everyone’s got something; it’s just a case of finding out what it is” and “you don’t have to be a prince to marry a princess.” Belle continues to prove that she is excellent at her job, helping her regular client to do something he’s never done before by encouraging him to dress up as a woman, something it seems he’s always secretly wanted to do. The way she said “I love my job” at the end of the episode was just spectacular. It’s great that Ben is around to be a good friend for everyone, and I enjoyed what he said to Byron: “who needs family when you have friends?” His reaction to Belle’s use of the non-expression “nervous as a kitten” was hilarious, and it was really nice that he forced Belle to finish the chapter, and I love how she disseminated it to Duncan’s entire office. Ben asking Belle out was insanely cute, and I love all of his drawings. We’ll have to see where that goes, and I’m truly hoping that this show gets renewed for a fourth season. Basically, Belle going public could have been a failure for this show, but instead it was a roaring success and probably the best season of this show yet.
Season grade: A-
Season MVP: Billie Piper
If this season has to end so quickly, at least we get a double dose of it as a parting gift. The first of the two episodes was alternately amusing and shocking. The male escort was very funny, and it was entertaining to see Belle in the other role and how she tried to act differently in order to get the full experience. His reaction to her confession that she was doing research was equally enjoyable. The big surprise is that Duncan isn’t actually a good guy, and even though his duplicity was revealed at the same time that Belle was stepping out on her beau, so to speak, the important thing to remember is that he did it with no prior knowledge of any of her activities. The look on Bambi’s face when she recognizes Duncan contrasted with the blissful ignorant happiness on Belle’s is just heartbreaking. Fortunately, Bambi’s wedding wasn’t at all ruined by her having to tell Belle about Duncan’s true color. Playing the song “Wonderwall” softly in the background while Bambi was breaking the news to Belle was also quite effective. Belle had some great quotes in this episode, including “everyone’s got something; it’s just a case of finding out what it is” and “you don’t have to be a prince to marry a princess.” Belle continues to prove that she is excellent at her job, helping her regular client to do something he’s never done before by encouraging him to dress up as a woman, something it seems he’s always secretly wanted to do. The way she said “I love my job” at the end of the episode was just spectacular. It’s great that Ben is around to be a good friend for everyone, and I enjoyed what he said to Byron: “who needs family when you have friends?” His reaction to Belle’s use of the non-expression “nervous as a kitten” was hilarious, and it was really nice that he forced Belle to finish the chapter, and I love how she disseminated it to Duncan’s entire office. Ben asking Belle out was insanely cute, and I love all of his drawings. We’ll have to see where that goes, and I’m truly hoping that this show gets renewed for a fourth season. Basically, Belle going public could have been a failure for this show, but instead it was a roaring success and probably the best season of this show yet.
Season grade: A-
Season MVP: Billie Piper
Thursday, March 11, 2010
What I’m Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 3, Episode 6 “Series 3, Episode 6” (B+)
I love the characters on this show, and it’s truly spectacular when those who have not yet met come together. In the last line of my review last week, I hoped that Duncan would have the opportunity to meet Ben and Bambi. Fortunately enough, Duncan and Ben do interact in this episode, and it’s just great. Even more entertaining is the relationship that Ben forms with Bambi’s fiancée. I very much enjoyed the book than Ben wrote and even illustrated, titled “Duncan is a prick.” The way Belle is so disappointed in Ben is a far more dramatic twist to this show, but it’s absolutely fascinating and completely terrific. The run-in at the bar with Belle’s 007 client started out fun and then took a turn for the horribly awkward, and seeing Belle get so upset at Duncan was intense. Following it up with Belle defending Duncan from the mockery and drunkenness of Ben made it resound even more powerfully. The opening scene to this episode was pretty incredible, watching Belle prepare for her client who wanted to act out a James Bond fantasy and getting even more into it than him. It goes along with the primary premise of this show, with which some people no doubt take issue, that Belle is prostitute who genuinely enjoys what she does and who likes having sex, going against the common notion that it’s a profession that is a last resort under the most dire of circumstances rather than a passion. I, for one, find it very intriguing, but I know that many do not, and those people probably aren’t fans of this show.
I love the characters on this show, and it’s truly spectacular when those who have not yet met come together. In the last line of my review last week, I hoped that Duncan would have the opportunity to meet Ben and Bambi. Fortunately enough, Duncan and Ben do interact in this episode, and it’s just great. Even more entertaining is the relationship that Ben forms with Bambi’s fiancée. I very much enjoyed the book than Ben wrote and even illustrated, titled “Duncan is a prick.” The way Belle is so disappointed in Ben is a far more dramatic twist to this show, but it’s absolutely fascinating and completely terrific. The run-in at the bar with Belle’s 007 client started out fun and then took a turn for the horribly awkward, and seeing Belle get so upset at Duncan was intense. Following it up with Belle defending Duncan from the mockery and drunkenness of Ben made it resound even more powerfully. The opening scene to this episode was pretty incredible, watching Belle prepare for her client who wanted to act out a James Bond fantasy and getting even more into it than him. It goes along with the primary premise of this show, with which some people no doubt take issue, that Belle is prostitute who genuinely enjoys what she does and who likes having sex, going against the common notion that it’s a profession that is a last resort under the most dire of circumstances rather than a passion. I, for one, find it very intriguing, but I know that many do not, and those people probably aren’t fans of this show.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
What I’m Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 3, Episode 5 “Series 3, Episode 5” (B+)
I love when Belle has a client she truly likes. The way she talks about him and the way he treats her is just wonderful. In this case, their close relationship allowed them to have a very open and honest discussion about the prospect of dating, and also enabled Belle to hallucinate him while she and Duncan were beginning to engage in some non-professional activity. Watching how befuddled he gets and how annoyed she so easily becomes only because of what’s running though her head is extraordinarily amusing. When she yelled at him that her name wasn’t Belle I realized that she probably wouldn’t much appreciate me referring to her constantly as Belle rather than Hannah. Bambi’s current situation isn’t entirely unexpected, and hopefully he’ll either pass Belle’s harsh test of loyalty or get out of Bambi’s life quick enough for her to rebound and get happy again before the season comes to an end in only three episodes. I’m not sure why they have to be so short, since it feels like we’re only beginning to dive into the lives of these wonderful characters. Belle having run-ins with Stephanie not one but two times was typically enjoyable because of the way they talk to each other, and I’ll go ahead and concur with Stephanie’s delight at getting to see her twice. With Jackie out of the picture and Bambi hitched, there haven’t been many ensemble scenes to speak of lately, so hopefully the whole cast will get together soon enough and decompress. I’d love to see Bambi and Ben interact with Duncan, but I don’t imagine that’s on the horizon.
I love when Belle has a client she truly likes. The way she talks about him and the way he treats her is just wonderful. In this case, their close relationship allowed them to have a very open and honest discussion about the prospect of dating, and also enabled Belle to hallucinate him while she and Duncan were beginning to engage in some non-professional activity. Watching how befuddled he gets and how annoyed she so easily becomes only because of what’s running though her head is extraordinarily amusing. When she yelled at him that her name wasn’t Belle I realized that she probably wouldn’t much appreciate me referring to her constantly as Belle rather than Hannah. Bambi’s current situation isn’t entirely unexpected, and hopefully he’ll either pass Belle’s harsh test of loyalty or get out of Bambi’s life quick enough for her to rebound and get happy again before the season comes to an end in only three episodes. I’m not sure why they have to be so short, since it feels like we’re only beginning to dive into the lives of these wonderful characters. Belle having run-ins with Stephanie not one but two times was typically enjoyable because of the way they talk to each other, and I’ll go ahead and concur with Stephanie’s delight at getting to see her twice. With Jackie out of the picture and Bambi hitched, there haven’t been many ensemble scenes to speak of lately, so hopefully the whole cast will get together soon enough and decompress. I’d love to see Bambi and Ben interact with Duncan, but I don’t imagine that’s on the horizon.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
What I’m Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 3, Episode 4 “Series 3, Episode 4” (B+)
Well, this episode just continues the trend of this show being incredibly stunning this season. It was always good, but it feels like it’s getting even better now. All of that sploshing stuff with the food was pretty crazy, and to see even Belle turned off by the idea was intense. It was reassuring that the guy who was into all of the weird stuff was actually incredibly nice and didn’t get angry with her when he realized she wasn’t into it. Fortunately, the equally funny and disturbing ending shot of an excited-looking Belle plopping down with the guy into whatever cake that was leaves us with the notion that Belle is trying to be happy in the midst of her relationships with everyone around her. I was going to mention how consistently impeccable the music choices were about halfway through the episode, and then on came the heartbreaking “Breathe Me” by Sia, used in the final moments of the unforgettable “Six Feet Under” series finale. And then there was “The Scarlet Tide” from “Cold Mountain,” not as great a song but just as effective. The montage with Bambi moments was marvelous, and I love how this show functions so well as both a comedy and a drama. Belle’s comment “who needs boys” was amusing, and having Bambi’s new boyfriend show up only seconds later with a tremendous show of affection for his belle worked very well to alienate Belle, forcing her back into her investigation of kinkiness to find some companionship and release. What magnificent characters there are on this show, including the two males with questionable ties to two ladies in a certain family.
Well, this episode just continues the trend of this show being incredibly stunning this season. It was always good, but it feels like it’s getting even better now. All of that sploshing stuff with the food was pretty crazy, and to see even Belle turned off by the idea was intense. It was reassuring that the guy who was into all of the weird stuff was actually incredibly nice and didn’t get angry with her when he realized she wasn’t into it. Fortunately, the equally funny and disturbing ending shot of an excited-looking Belle plopping down with the guy into whatever cake that was leaves us with the notion that Belle is trying to be happy in the midst of her relationships with everyone around her. I was going to mention how consistently impeccable the music choices were about halfway through the episode, and then on came the heartbreaking “Breathe Me” by Sia, used in the final moments of the unforgettable “Six Feet Under” series finale. And then there was “The Scarlet Tide” from “Cold Mountain,” not as great a song but just as effective. The montage with Bambi moments was marvelous, and I love how this show functions so well as both a comedy and a drama. Belle’s comment “who needs boys” was amusing, and having Bambi’s new boyfriend show up only seconds later with a tremendous show of affection for his belle worked very well to alienate Belle, forcing her back into her investigation of kinkiness to find some companionship and release. What magnificent characters there are on this show, including the two males with questionable ties to two ladies in a certain family.
Friday, February 19, 2010
What I’m Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 3, Episode 3 “Series 3, Episode 3” (B+)
The start to this episode was nowhere near as beautifully choreographed and musically accompanied as the previous two installments of this show, and it was fantastic. Belle’s narration of her exploits where she mistakenly counted three feet was hilarious and had me laughing out loud. As she says, she’s much better with the actual actions than with her words. There was such clever editing in this episode, like when Belle and Bambi were talking over the phone looking into mirrors and the two frames were placed across from each other and positioned as if they were looking at each other. Belle’s animal-obsessed client was quite weird, and Belle’s confusion at his command to make the sound made by a ewe was funny. Jackie’s continued presence is not an annoyance but rather a guilty pleasure, and though it’s taking her an awfully long time to deduce Belle’s true profession, what she’s doing in the meantime is plenty amusing enough. Her asking Belle if Ben ever did a specific something and Belle getting unbelievably grossed out was great, and Belle’s realization that she should have thrown them out instead of herself since it really was very cold was extremely funny. It’s nice that she still has her friendship with Bambi, even if the less experienced call girl is beginning to blur the lines between client and boyfriend. Belle’s end-of-episode declaration that she doesn’t fancy her editor which quickly turned into an admission that she did a bit, but only in the same way that you might fancy one of your teachers, was wonderful, and it’s lovely to see her finding a kindred spirit who’s well aware of her profession before they ever jump into bed together.
The start to this episode was nowhere near as beautifully choreographed and musically accompanied as the previous two installments of this show, and it was fantastic. Belle’s narration of her exploits where she mistakenly counted three feet was hilarious and had me laughing out loud. As she says, she’s much better with the actual actions than with her words. There was such clever editing in this episode, like when Belle and Bambi were talking over the phone looking into mirrors and the two frames were placed across from each other and positioned as if they were looking at each other. Belle’s animal-obsessed client was quite weird, and Belle’s confusion at his command to make the sound made by a ewe was funny. Jackie’s continued presence is not an annoyance but rather a guilty pleasure, and though it’s taking her an awfully long time to deduce Belle’s true profession, what she’s doing in the meantime is plenty amusing enough. Her asking Belle if Ben ever did a specific something and Belle getting unbelievably grossed out was great, and Belle’s realization that she should have thrown them out instead of herself since it really was very cold was extremely funny. It’s nice that she still has her friendship with Bambi, even if the less experienced call girl is beginning to blur the lines between client and boyfriend. Belle’s end-of-episode declaration that she doesn’t fancy her editor which quickly turned into an admission that she did a bit, but only in the same way that you might fancy one of your teachers, was wonderful, and it’s lovely to see her finding a kindred spirit who’s well aware of her profession before they ever jump into bed together.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
What I’m Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 3, Episode 2 “Series 3, Episode 2” (B+)
I love these introductions with spectacular music choices that really get into the unique tone this show has managed to set. The lyrics “come with me and you’ll be in a world of your imagination” coupled with the old-fashioned clothing and scenery were magnificent. The club Belle took her sister to was pretty crazy, even by this show’s standards. The best part was seeing Belle’s face as Stephanie was about to meet that drill of sorts since even she seemed to find it a bit off-putting, and that’s saying something. This was a wonderful episode for Bambi, and it makes me so glad that Ashley Madekwe didn’t get stranded on the CW’s “The Beautiful Life,” which aired a grand total of two episodes this past fall. Her outburst at Stephanie’s inflammatory comments was fantastic, and it was fun to see her get so mad at a very confused and preoccupied Belle. The scene with Jackie picking up and putting down the book while struggling with whether or not she should start engaging in another activity was hilarious and amazingly choreographed, and Ben’s arrival was classic. He’s really having a great season. Belle asking viewers not to take notes because she hasn’t had the chance to prepare adequately for her perfect night was terrific. The end scene with the conversation between Belle and Duncan was great, and it’s very nice to see them forming a relationship. This show managed with only a couple of characters before now, but having it expanded to six featured cast members now is doing it a wondrous favor.
I love these introductions with spectacular music choices that really get into the unique tone this show has managed to set. The lyrics “come with me and you’ll be in a world of your imagination” coupled with the old-fashioned clothing and scenery were magnificent. The club Belle took her sister to was pretty crazy, even by this show’s standards. The best part was seeing Belle’s face as Stephanie was about to meet that drill of sorts since even she seemed to find it a bit off-putting, and that’s saying something. This was a wonderful episode for Bambi, and it makes me so glad that Ashley Madekwe didn’t get stranded on the CW’s “The Beautiful Life,” which aired a grand total of two episodes this past fall. Her outburst at Stephanie’s inflammatory comments was fantastic, and it was fun to see her get so mad at a very confused and preoccupied Belle. The scene with Jackie picking up and putting down the book while struggling with whether or not she should start engaging in another activity was hilarious and amazingly choreographed, and Ben’s arrival was classic. He’s really having a great season. Belle asking viewers not to take notes because she hasn’t had the chance to prepare adequately for her perfect night was terrific. The end scene with the conversation between Belle and Duncan was great, and it’s very nice to see them forming a relationship. This show managed with only a couple of characters before now, but having it expanded to six featured cast members now is doing it a wondrous favor.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
What I’m Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl (Season Premiere)
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 3, Episode 1 “Series 3, Episode 1” (B+)
That opening shot alone makes me so excited to have this show and its inimitable star back. This is the first time I’m following along with the show as it airs, and there’s something really great about looking forward to new episodes and storylines each week. In this newest season, the show is far more structured than it ever has been before in terms of an ensemble, and I couldn’t be happier about it. Bambi and Ben have both always been fantastic supporting characters, and it’s nice to see them featured prominently again. Bambi’s attempt to search for herself in Belle’s book was funny, and her realization that there was a lovely character in the book based on her was touching. Ben being mistaken as Belle was particularly hilarious, especially because of how inept he was in trying to assume her identity and how he was the subservient one rather than the woman he was supposed to be taking for a wild ride. He did fall right into that trap testing his authorship of the book. I particularly enjoyed Bambi, Ben, and Belle (lots of names starting with Bs) getting together to celebrate at the close of the episode. New cast member James D’Arcy is a welcome addition as book publisher Duncan, and it’s great to see “Virtuality” actors getting some more work. Belle trying to have interesting experiences to then write about for her new book is a great new way of framing the show. The surprise appearance of Belle’s sister at the end of the episode is an intriguing twist which should take the show in a completely unexplored direction, and I’m very excited about that.
That opening shot alone makes me so excited to have this show and its inimitable star back. This is the first time I’m following along with the show as it airs, and there’s something really great about looking forward to new episodes and storylines each week. In this newest season, the show is far more structured than it ever has been before in terms of an ensemble, and I couldn’t be happier about it. Bambi and Ben have both always been fantastic supporting characters, and it’s nice to see them featured prominently again. Bambi’s attempt to search for herself in Belle’s book was funny, and her realization that there was a lovely character in the book based on her was touching. Ben being mistaken as Belle was particularly hilarious, especially because of how inept he was in trying to assume her identity and how he was the subservient one rather than the woman he was supposed to be taking for a wild ride. He did fall right into that trap testing his authorship of the book. I particularly enjoyed Bambi, Ben, and Belle (lots of names starting with Bs) getting together to celebrate at the close of the episode. New cast member James D’Arcy is a welcome addition as book publisher Duncan, and it’s great to see “Virtuality” actors getting some more work. Belle trying to have interesting experiences to then write about for her new book is a great new way of framing the show. The surprise appearance of Belle’s sister at the end of the episode is an intriguing twist which should take the show in a completely unexplored direction, and I’m very excited about that.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
What I'm Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 1, Episode 8 (B+)
This is a fitting finale for a consistently good first season. I'm eager to see season two, which I believe begins as early as next month in the UK, and I'll attempt to provide reviews based on whether I can get my hands on the episodes as they air overseas. Billie Piper is a terrific lead, and I'm continually impressed by her ability to carry the show and dwarf all the guest stars with her performance. Ben is a fine supporting character, and I suspect that this new position which Belle holds won't suit her as much as she initially thought, and she may revert back to her old job, which may not turn out to be much of a downgrade. All in all, this is a good show which is far better than I might have imagined.
Season 1 grade: B+
This is a fitting finale for a consistently good first season. I'm eager to see season two, which I believe begins as early as next month in the UK, and I'll attempt to provide reviews based on whether I can get my hands on the episodes as they air overseas. Billie Piper is a terrific lead, and I'm continually impressed by her ability to carry the show and dwarf all the guest stars with her performance. Ben is a fine supporting character, and I suspect that this new position which Belle holds won't suit her as much as she initially thought, and she may revert back to her old job, which may not turn out to be much of a downgrade. All in all, this is a good show which is far better than I might have imagined.
Season 1 grade: B+
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
What I'm Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 1, Episode 7 (B+)
I'm continually impressed by this show's ability to remain engaging week after week with Billie Piper taking the whole show on by herself. This week she is joined by an entertaining "fourth" for her foursome with a couple celebrating their 15th/20th anniversary. I enjoyed the fourth's continual misgivings and uncertainties about the whole scenario despite his claims to being an experienced professional, as well as the true, unadulterated passion the couple had for each other after such a long time. Next week is the show's first season finale, though I assume season two should begin in the U.K. in no time at all.
I'm continually impressed by this show's ability to remain engaging week after week with Billie Piper taking the whole show on by herself. This week she is joined by an entertaining "fourth" for her foursome with a couple celebrating their 15th/20th anniversary. I enjoyed the fourth's continual misgivings and uncertainties about the whole scenario despite his claims to being an experienced professional, as well as the true, unadulterated passion the couple had for each other after such a long time. Next week is the show's first season finale, though I assume season two should begin in the U.K. in no time at all.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
What I'm Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 1, Episode 6 (B+)
This show has been doing well enough for itself, managing not to become too repetitive without really progressing too much through its first five episodes. This installment is not much different, except that it introduces an interesting new element: a bad review for Hannah. It's amusing to watch how she handles it, and it's really no big surprise that good old buddy Ben is the one who provides her with a sparkling review. I think she suspects, but she should really know. It's clear to me that there's something there, and especially because she told him and only him about what it is she actually does, it's likely that he will get cold feet before the wedding and admit his feelings to Hannah. Two more episodes to go for this season, and then however many more seasons after that at some undetermined date. I'll stick around for a while.
This show has been doing well enough for itself, managing not to become too repetitive without really progressing too much through its first five episodes. This installment is not much different, except that it introduces an interesting new element: a bad review for Hannah. It's amusing to watch how she handles it, and it's really no big surprise that good old buddy Ben is the one who provides her with a sparkling review. I think she suspects, but she should really know. It's clear to me that there's something there, and especially because she told him and only him about what it is she actually does, it's likely that he will get cold feet before the wedding and admit his feelings to Hannah. Two more episodes to go for this season, and then however many more seasons after that at some undetermined date. I'll stick around for a while.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Catching Up: Summer Series
With all this Emmy hysteria and my race to finish both “Firefly” and the complete “X-Files” series before their respective film follow-up theatrical showings (“X-Files” review coming soon), I’ve neglected to review all the summer television I’ve been watching. While it’s not nearly as much as I watch in the fall, there’s still a good deal of shows that I’ll summarize here before starting to review them each on a weekly basis (possibly in an end-of-week digest format, but we’ll see). I won’t be reviewing all the episodes I’ve seen over the past few weeks, but I’ll pick up where I am and start reviewing from here on out.
I’ve just posted pilot reviews for Flashpoint and The Cleaner. I plan to continue watching “The Cleaner” starting with episode two tonight. I tried the second installments of both “Flashpoint” and In Plain Sight only to discover that they were just as bad as the first ones. I am happy to say that I opted to pick up Swingtown after my initial dismissal of the show and have now deemed it a proper guilty pleasure. As I mentioned a few posts earlier, “Swingtown” will be moving to the new timeslot of Fridays at 10pm.
As far as returning shows go, I decided to check out two sophomore shows which I had only seen the first few episodes of when they premiered last summer. I’m watching Burn Notice because of guest star Tricia Helfer (“Battlestar Galactica”), who is good on the show, though regrettably not quite as good as on BSG. It’s a quirky show that’s amusing at best and entertaining enough to sustain my interest, especially now that it doesn’t conflict with “Swingtown”. The other show is Saving Grace, which I think I’ve had just about enough of at this point. I never got into it, giving up last summer after only four episodes. Holly Hunter gives a decent performance but the show just doesn’t feel right. Watching it after The Closer also doesn’t quite give it a fair chance. Brenda Jonhson and the gang were back for a strong premiere last week and a good enough episode last night. I look forward to their continuing adventures, and I’m glad to see Phillip P. Keene (Buzz) added to the credited cast at the beginning of the episode. There’s nothing I hate more than a terrific ensemble that doesn’t credit all of its members accordingly (examples: see SAG nods for the casts of the movie “Ray” and shows like “24” and even “The Closer” in its first season).
Lighting up my weekend viewing are the Friday night USA offerings Monk and Psych, which premiered last week with amusing if not somewhat unsatisfying installments. “Monk” offered a fitting farewell to the late Stanley Kamel (Dr. Kroeger) and “Psych” managed to introduce Cybill Shepherd without overshadowing the rest of the cast. I think both of those shows will improve this coming week and throughout the rest of the season. I’ve heard some exciting news about some of the best characters from “Monk” returning for the show’s 100th episode this season.
In addition to this bunch, I’ve been doing my best to keep up on Showtime’s Monday night comedy pack Weeds and Secret Diary of a Call Girl without actually having the channel. So far, so good, though I’m pretty sure I’m watching the original British version of “Secret Diary of a Call Girl”. Billie Piper really runs that show all by herself, and she’s doing an impressive job. On “Weeds”, I’m finding Mary-Louise Parker rather irritating, as opposed to fascinating last season. Justin Kirk is really fantastic this year, and while I didn’t love Albert Brooks’ arc, he spun the story in a good direction. The show, despite a clever new opening bit each episode, has been getting off to a slow start, reorganizing all its characters in the proper way, but I think it should pick up soon enough. I haven’t yet seen last night’s episodes of either show, so I’ll start off my new reviews with thoughts on these two.
It’s weird that this summer is missing so many shows that really do feel right in the summer, such as “Entourage”, “Californication”, “Flight of the Conchords”, and especially “Rescue Me”. I’d even prefer to have the second season of “Damages” running right now rather than opposite a massive slate of programming in the spring. All of those will come in due time, I suppose. At least there is one upcoming positive: season two of the best reviewed-show in ages begins this Sunday at 10pm. Tune in to AMC for Mad Men. I know I will.
Reviews of upcoming episodes of all these shows and my thoughts on the whole “X-Files” series are coming soon. I will be reviewing “Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog” as soon as I get a chance to see act three.
Coming in the next few weeks: the 2nd Annual AFT Television Awards, honoring the very best in television this past season, in my opinion. I’m sorting through right now, finding eight great contenders in some categories and three in others. I’ll begin announcing categories soon; you won’t want to miss them.
I’ve just posted pilot reviews for Flashpoint and The Cleaner. I plan to continue watching “The Cleaner” starting with episode two tonight. I tried the second installments of both “Flashpoint” and In Plain Sight only to discover that they were just as bad as the first ones. I am happy to say that I opted to pick up Swingtown after my initial dismissal of the show and have now deemed it a proper guilty pleasure. As I mentioned a few posts earlier, “Swingtown” will be moving to the new timeslot of Fridays at 10pm.
As far as returning shows go, I decided to check out two sophomore shows which I had only seen the first few episodes of when they premiered last summer. I’m watching Burn Notice because of guest star Tricia Helfer (“Battlestar Galactica”), who is good on the show, though regrettably not quite as good as on BSG. It’s a quirky show that’s amusing at best and entertaining enough to sustain my interest, especially now that it doesn’t conflict with “Swingtown”. The other show is Saving Grace, which I think I’ve had just about enough of at this point. I never got into it, giving up last summer after only four episodes. Holly Hunter gives a decent performance but the show just doesn’t feel right. Watching it after The Closer also doesn’t quite give it a fair chance. Brenda Jonhson and the gang were back for a strong premiere last week and a good enough episode last night. I look forward to their continuing adventures, and I’m glad to see Phillip P. Keene (Buzz) added to the credited cast at the beginning of the episode. There’s nothing I hate more than a terrific ensemble that doesn’t credit all of its members accordingly (examples: see SAG nods for the casts of the movie “Ray” and shows like “24” and even “The Closer” in its first season).
Lighting up my weekend viewing are the Friday night USA offerings Monk and Psych, which premiered last week with amusing if not somewhat unsatisfying installments. “Monk” offered a fitting farewell to the late Stanley Kamel (Dr. Kroeger) and “Psych” managed to introduce Cybill Shepherd without overshadowing the rest of the cast. I think both of those shows will improve this coming week and throughout the rest of the season. I’ve heard some exciting news about some of the best characters from “Monk” returning for the show’s 100th episode this season.
In addition to this bunch, I’ve been doing my best to keep up on Showtime’s Monday night comedy pack Weeds and Secret Diary of a Call Girl without actually having the channel. So far, so good, though I’m pretty sure I’m watching the original British version of “Secret Diary of a Call Girl”. Billie Piper really runs that show all by herself, and she’s doing an impressive job. On “Weeds”, I’m finding Mary-Louise Parker rather irritating, as opposed to fascinating last season. Justin Kirk is really fantastic this year, and while I didn’t love Albert Brooks’ arc, he spun the story in a good direction. The show, despite a clever new opening bit each episode, has been getting off to a slow start, reorganizing all its characters in the proper way, but I think it should pick up soon enough. I haven’t yet seen last night’s episodes of either show, so I’ll start off my new reviews with thoughts on these two.
It’s weird that this summer is missing so many shows that really do feel right in the summer, such as “Entourage”, “Californication”, “Flight of the Conchords”, and especially “Rescue Me”. I’d even prefer to have the second season of “Damages” running right now rather than opposite a massive slate of programming in the spring. All of those will come in due time, I suppose. At least there is one upcoming positive: season two of the best reviewed-show in ages begins this Sunday at 10pm. Tune in to AMC for Mad Men. I know I will.
Reviews of upcoming episodes of all these shows and my thoughts on the whole “X-Files” series are coming soon. I will be reviewing “Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog” as soon as I get a chance to see act three.
Coming in the next few weeks: the 2nd Annual AFT Television Awards, honoring the very best in television this past season, in my opinion. I’m sorting through right now, finding eight great contenders in some categories and three in others. I’ll begin announcing categories soon; you won’t want to miss them.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Pilot Review: Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Secret Diary of a Call Girl (Showtime)
Premiered June 16 at 10:30pm
I was fortunate enough to catch the unedited pilot of this show online at Showtime’s website less than 24 hours before they took it down, though unfortunately the second episode wasn’t available anymore by the time I went back to watch it. I would have liked to see it because I believe the second or third episode will be far more of a determining factor in how good this show than the pilot itself. That said, it’s a pretty decent pilot, but it stresses exposition and catch-up rather than furthering the plot at all (unlike, say, “Criminal Minds”, which jumped right in to a cliffhanger at the end of its very first episode). That’s not a bad thing, it’s just hard to judge the show based on that. It has a relatively small episode order for its first season, though it has been picked up for a number of additional episodes beyond that. I think it could work very well on an episode-to-episode basis; the important thing to keep in mind is that Billie Piper is pretty much anchoring this show all by herself. Showy guest stars will be floating in and out of the show, I’m sure, but it’s Piper’s charm that will have to keep it going. She does a terrific job of introducing everything in the first episode, and it’s certainly a fascinating, innovative look at her life. Her attitude towards her work makes it incredibly interesting, and I’m eager to see more of the show. There's a lot of sex, but unlike recent shows like "Tell Me You Love Me", it doesn't seem to be an overbearing element of the show - more integrated into its style, like on "The L Word". I’m not sure I’ll be able to keep up with it simply because it’s on Showtime and I may fall behind due to episode unavailability on the Internet, but I’ll be providing reviews as long as I’m watching it.
How will it work as a series? I touched upon that above, but I think it should work very well, but each episode will really stand on its own and it may vary incredibly from episode to episode in quality. Hopefully not, but a sour plotline could drag one episode down and then have absolutely no effect on the next.
How long will it last? Cable shows are always harder to judge than network ones, since they usually go in with a more stable and certain commitment. In the case of this show, it’s pretty much guaranteed a long and healthy life, with a dozen more episodes already ordered for the next season. Showtime has been doing well for itself lately, and that will only help this series, not to mention the prime time slot due to the postponement of the second season of “Californication”.
Pilot grade: B+
Premiered June 16 at 10:30pm
I was fortunate enough to catch the unedited pilot of this show online at Showtime’s website less than 24 hours before they took it down, though unfortunately the second episode wasn’t available anymore by the time I went back to watch it. I would have liked to see it because I believe the second or third episode will be far more of a determining factor in how good this show than the pilot itself. That said, it’s a pretty decent pilot, but it stresses exposition and catch-up rather than furthering the plot at all (unlike, say, “Criminal Minds”, which jumped right in to a cliffhanger at the end of its very first episode). That’s not a bad thing, it’s just hard to judge the show based on that. It has a relatively small episode order for its first season, though it has been picked up for a number of additional episodes beyond that. I think it could work very well on an episode-to-episode basis; the important thing to keep in mind is that Billie Piper is pretty much anchoring this show all by herself. Showy guest stars will be floating in and out of the show, I’m sure, but it’s Piper’s charm that will have to keep it going. She does a terrific job of introducing everything in the first episode, and it’s certainly a fascinating, innovative look at her life. Her attitude towards her work makes it incredibly interesting, and I’m eager to see more of the show. There's a lot of sex, but unlike recent shows like "Tell Me You Love Me", it doesn't seem to be an overbearing element of the show - more integrated into its style, like on "The L Word". I’m not sure I’ll be able to keep up with it simply because it’s on Showtime and I may fall behind due to episode unavailability on the Internet, but I’ll be providing reviews as long as I’m watching it.
How will it work as a series? I touched upon that above, but I think it should work very well, but each episode will really stand on its own and it may vary incredibly from episode to episode in quality. Hopefully not, but a sour plotline could drag one episode down and then have absolutely no effect on the next.
How long will it last? Cable shows are always harder to judge than network ones, since they usually go in with a more stable and certain commitment. In the case of this show, it’s pretty much guaranteed a long and healthy life, with a dozen more episodes already ordered for the next season. Showtime has been doing well for itself lately, and that will only help this series, not to mention the prime time slot due to the postponement of the second season of “Californication”.
Pilot grade: B+
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