The Television Power Rankings Week 10 (April 6 – April 12)
April 16, 2012 § Leave a comment
After the deluge of spectacular US TV show returns in the past two weeks, this week brought the series premiere of Magic City on the cable channel that brought us the rompification (yes I created that word. I’m cool like that) of classic stories such as Spartacus and Camelot and the equally sexual but original stellar contemporary political drama Boss (starring Kelsey Grammar). Magic City attempts to be somewhere in the middle. It’s a period drama set in the 50’s but the premise is original. It has Starz (premium cable TV in general) customary unnecessary sex and nudity but Magic City aspires to be a new TV phenomena. The period cool of Mad Men mixed with the strong dramatic premise of Boardwalk Empire or maybe even The Sopranos.
Magic City primarily focuses on the (hopefully) captivating (a la Don Draper) Jewish owner of a new and certainly glamorous Miami hotel, Ike Evans. It focuses on Ike’s struggles running his hotel amidst labour union strife and the encroaching mob. The cast is good, headlined by Jeffrey Dean Morgan as Ike Evans, Olga Kurylenko (Quantum of Solace Bond girl) as his wife, and Danny Huston as the archetype close to insane mobster. I’m a fan of Jeffrey Dean Morgan, and I believe the Ike Evans character can grow on me. But my perception after this premiere episode is that the writing seriously needs to get better for this to happen. The show’s potential to be stellar is very evident. The 50’s period, the Miami setting, the initial premise (call that the promise if you’d like), and the cast. It really should have been a lay up for the show to be at least intriguing, but it is not… so far. I’ll stick to it, watch the entire season if I have to, because I believe in its promise. Let’s see where it lands on the Power Rankings.
1. (+2) Justified (US) – FX, 5 USA, Catch-up – iTunes
The finale was excellent in places and a bit recycled, and overdone in others. You can’t help but feel this ending could have come several episodes ago without the unnecessary double and triple crossing that filled the placeholder episodes. Raylan Givens is a revenge seeking crazy dude but on the right side of the law. Quarles is an incredibly desperate man being hunted by the law and Boyd Crowder. Limehouse seemingly has the fate of many men in his hands. One meets his end, the other narrowly escapes his end AGAIN, and two are left rueing the fates of people they once considered family.
2. (-1) Game Of Thrones (US) – HBO, Sky Atlantic – Catch-up – iTunes
Theon Greyjoy goes home to find that he wasn’t much missed whilst captive with the Starks, even worse his father has intentions that will deeply question his loyalty. Ser Davos Seaworth goes in search of allies for Stannis Baratheon. Petyr Baelish puts his (whore) house in order and Tyrion Lannister puts King’s landing affairs in his order. Yoren rebuffs the City’s watchmen in their search of the Baratheon bastard.
3. (-1) Mad Men (US) – AMC, Sky Atlantic, Catch-up -iTunes
Don has a severe fever throughout the episode. The entire Mad Men universe is dealing with the news of the nurse killings in Chicago. Sally and her stepmother initially struggle but eventually bond over the news. Michael Ginsberg’s crazy genius is revealed to Don in the aftermath of a “Cinderella” pitch. Peggy swindles Roger Sterling off all his walking money for a rushed Mohawk brief. Joan’s husband returns from Vietnam but his choices lead her to a drastic but inevitable decision. Don’s fever leads him to question his fidelity, in the most violent of ways.
4. (-) Twenty Twelve (UK) – BBC2, Catch-up – BBC iPlayer
The ODC have to deal with the future of the Olympic stadium as some team members struggle with their home lives. Ian Fletcher, head of the ODC, has a new and altogether very different secretary. The growing pains are evident. Siobhan Sharpe doesn’t know it but her team completely destroys the adjoining of the Olympic brand to the Queen’s diamond jubilee.
5. (*) Happy Endings (US, UK airdate) – ABC, E4, Catch-up – 4oD
Alex attempts to convince Dave that they didn’t sleep together with the aid of her sister Jane, who’s a master of covering her tail and convincing her man, Brad, of the impossible. Brad and Dave go on a quest to uncover what they hesitantly believe are the Kerkovich girl’s lies. Max, taking his break up badly, joins Penny for a quest race she never wins but is determined to win this time.
6. (*) Have I Got News For You (UK) – BBC1, Catch-up – BBC iPlayer
HIGNFY the satirical panel show returns with an excellent episode guest hosted by Stephen Mangan. Joining Ian Hislop and Paul Merton where guests panellists Miles Jupp and Grace Dent.
7. (+1) Awake (US) – NBC, Catch-up – iTunes
Michael Britton investigates the apparent suicide of a teenager with Det. Freeman in one reality. In the other reality, he investigates with Det. Vega a cold case when the murdered body of a Hispanic male is found in the concrete foundation of a building. His subconscious continues to struggle with his wife’s decision for them to move to Oregon.
8. (*) Magic City (US) – Starz, Catch-up – iTunes
Ike Evans fight to keep his New Year’s Eve party with Frank Sinatra from crumbling if the labour union continues to protest the hotel. He attempts to enlist mobster Ben “The Butcher” Diamond’s aid but it comes at a severe cost.
9. (-2) The Killing (US) – AMC, Catch-up – iTunes
Stephen Holder and Sarah Linden finally partner up just before Stephen spirals out of control. Stan Larsen enlists the help of his former gangster boss to provide security for his family. Meanwhile his wife continues to deal with the loss of her beloved daughter in seriously morally questioning ways. Darren Richmond struggles to come to terms with his handicap.
10. (*) The Apprentice UK – BBC1, Catch-up – BBC iPlayer
This week the task was to stock a second-hand shop in London’s ‘trendy’ East End, with second hand or vintage goods. Neither team particularly failed in this task although their methods were different. Lord Sugar was left with the difficult decision of firing a contestant from the losing (“obviously dude!” my subconscious screams) team.
*A lot of struggling in the episodes this week it seems.
Dropouts
- Fringe – I don’t how, or why, it just didn’t make the top 10. Good episode.
- Spartacus – Finale last week.
- Death Row – Finale last week.
Bubbling Under/Honourable Mentions (besides the Dropout)
Modern Family (US, UK airdate) – ABC, Sky 1; Scott & Bailey (UK) – ITV1; Touch (US) – FOX, Sky; Silent Witness (UK) – BBC1; Bitch in Apartment 23 (US) – ABC; Scandal (US) – ABC; TUF Live (US, UK airdate) – FX, ESPN UK; Community (US, UK airdate) – NBC, SONY TV.
The Television Power Rankings Week 9 (March 30 – April 5)
April 10, 2012 § Leave a comment
Game of Thrones: Iron Throne
I’m so glad Game of Thrones has finally returned. I’d been fighting a close battle with myself to not buy the George R. R. Martin audiobooks (I’m too busy (lazy) to read books right now) from the ‘A Song of Fire and Ice’ series the TV show is adapted from. I’ve survived so far but I’m already itching at the prospect of waiting between the second and third seasons, especially considering the way the story has been set up in this first episode of the second season.
Game of Thrones returns right were Season 1 ends, as the shuffle for the Iron Throne continues in earnest. The Starks led by Robb Stark fight for northern independence, and Daenerys Targaryen journeys through the desert with her baby dragons to reclaim the throne for the Targaryens. The show also expends its purview and so introduces new characters. Characters such as Stannis Baratheon, performed aptly steely by Stephen Dillane, brother of the dead King, his right hand man Ser Davos Seaworth performed by one of my favourite actors Liam Cunningham and Stannis’s new lover Carice Van Houten, a sort of temptress character. There are more characters to be introduced as the season continues but all these new characters don’t seem new at all. It’s like they’ve always been in this world but we, the audience, just weren’t aware. They are fully formed characters with ambitions, life long alliances and incredibly fascinating backstories. They all fit perfectly in this fantasy world.
As is expected, introducing new fascinating characters with enough screen time to breath reduces the screen time for your older, and maybe favourite characters. In my case I’m a Lannister guy all the way, yes this might come across as the evil, psychotic, BEEP inbred and treacherous choice… but that’s my choice. Jaime Lannister is my favourite character and I’m on #TeamJoffrey for the Iron Throne. You choose, and bask in the glorious amazement that is Game of Thrones.
The other premiere this week is The Killing, to be precise the US version of the Killing. The basic concept is chronicling to a minutia the investigation of a murdered girl in rainy Seattle. I came late on to the phenomenon that was the original Danish show (started from the 2nd season of that one) so I suppose I’m a good judge of the US version. I can’t go any further talking about the 2nd season of the US version without commenting on the furore the finale of the 1st season instigated. People went bat-BEEP crazy because Rosie Larson’s killer wasn’t found and instead the show ended with a cliffhanger. In this age things can easily be made to seem bigger, better, worse, and more grave than they actually are. Most Internet commentators prefer to express themselves in extremes. So gauging the actual extent of the furore can only be done based on viewing figures as most people promised to not return. According to tvbythenumbers.com, the best website for viewing figures; 1.8 million people watched the return of The Killing as opposed to 2.3 million who watched season one finale. So I guess the furore did have a substantial effect, half a million people stayed away.
Those of us that have returned for the back-to-back episodes premiere would have enjoyed two pretty good episodes. I’ll declare my bias; I’m a big fan of Joel Kinnaman, who plays the excellently enigmatic Stephen Holder. I’ll be watching The Killing so long as Stephen Holder is on the show but I’ll predict right here, right now, that Stephen Holder will be dead at the end of this season. The show’s executives have already stated that we will know Rosie’s killer in the season finale, so I wonder what the episodes prior to the finale will hold. More red herrings? More focus on Rosie’s grieving family? Whatever the choice I hope it’s good, or fantastically bad, because I want to enjoy The Killing, I really do. Let’s see where it lands on the Power Rankings.
1. (*) Game Of Thrones (US) – HBO, Sky Atlantic – Catch-up – iTunes
A steady episode with few of the usual mind-blowing surprises (well besides rampant baby killing) that showcases the several men fighting for the Iron Throne. The stakes for each man and the lengths they will go to protect or attain what they believe is rightfully theirs. Joffrey’s inbred captivating insanity is excellent to watch, so is his mother Cersei, fighting to control him and assert the power she’s gained by whatever means necessary. “Power is Power,” she says to Littlefinger in a fantastic scene.
2. (-1) Mad Men (US) – AMC, Sky Atlantic, Catch-up -iTunes
This week’s episode brings with it a hefty Betty. The casual life of a housewife has caused Betty to explode in weight. As you’d expect Betty hates her size but cant seem to stop eating. She goes to the doctor for diet pills but is diagnosed with a mole. The rest of the episode deals with consequence for Betty, Don and their families if this mole happens to be life threatening. At the agency, the pissing contest between Pete and Roger intensifies.
3. (-1) Justified (US) – FX, Catch-up – iTunes
In this penultimate episode alliances shuffled with every passing scene. Quarles proved himself impossible to hold down. Boyd shows himself to be smarter than you’d expect. Limehouse shows himself a virtuous man, although virtue is relative considering the players, including Raylan. Raylan gets his man as he’d prophesied in court. Boyd’s desire for vengeance, Quarles desperation, and Wynn’s betrayal leads to an explosive final scene.
4. (-) Twenty Twelve (UK) – BBC2, Catch-up – BBC iPlayer
The hilarity continues as the ODC attempt to deal with the threat of boycott by Algeria, now against a deadline. A plan is finally hatched after meeting with an emergency architect, an unplanned meeting with a seemingly cool ‘Priest’ (don’t think he was actually) and a planned meeting with a representative from Muslim Focus UK. Also in the last scenes we may or may not have lost an integral member of the ODC.
5. (*) Death Row (UK) – Channel 4, Catch-up – 4oD
I love Werner Herzog. Everything he does, from his documentaries to his remake of Bad Lieutenant (Nicholas Cage’s last good movie). I don’t agree with his politics in regards to the death penalty but that doesn’t stop me from being enthralled by his fascinating insights of men about to be killed by the state. Mostly Texas it seems. This week we follow two men who were involved in a prison escape and a deadly gunfight that lead to their death sentences. One is the charismatic ringleader, the other a supposedly good guy whose life changed for the worst after he was ‘cock-blocked’ (lesson here dudes… exaggerated nod).
6. (-1) Spartacus (US) – Starz, Sky 1, Catch-up – iTunes
In the finale everything happens fantastically well for Spartacus and his legion of rebels. One of the major characters in the legion does die, but in my (blood-thirsty maybe?) opinion that wasn’t enough considering the dire circumstances for Spartacus and the legion at the end of last episode. My favourite character also dies. He/she deserved to die but it was sad to see them go.
7. (*) The Killing (US) – AMC, Catch-up – iTunes
The hunt for Rosie’s true killer continues. Sarah Linden now trusts no one especially her former partner Stephen Holder as she seeks the truth by herself. Jamie struggles to contain his emotions as he waits for Darren to regain consciousness and realise his fate. Stan Larson fights to protect his family when he finds that Darren is not being charged of his daughter’s (Rosie) murder. Add to that the ‘real’ killer taunts Stan. Stephen spirals when he realises that he’s being played.
8. (-1) Awake (US) – NBC, Catch-up – iTunes
Michael is brought in to negotiate a hostage situation involving a mental patient. The case and the mental patient lead Michael to question his mental competency and his future, considering his very unique situation. There is a very intriguing revelation in the last moments of the episode.
9. (-3) Fringe (US) – FOX, Sky 1, Catch-up – iTunes
An episode that reworks a classic season 1 episode (The Transformation). Olivia is initially benched by Broyles in the wake of her memory loss but this doesn’t stop her helping Walter, Peter, and Lincoln investigate the case involving a group that wants to create a new evolution of mankind. In the episode’s crisis moment, Olivia’s prowess saves Lincoln from near death. In the last scene Broyles reinstates Olivia in the Fringe Team.
10. (-) The Apprentice UK – BBC1, Catch-up – BBC iPlayer
The teams are merged to start the episode. It’s no longer a battle of the sexes. Some of the contestants are beginning to stand out, for several reasons. This week Duane stands out for good reasons as he’s sent to lead the women’s team. The task was to create condiments. The predominantly male team chose to make ketchup. The Duane led predominantly female team made chutney. After a cringe-worthy boardroom session, Lord Sugar rightfully fired the weak-link of the losing team.
Dropouts
- Panorama – The week’s topic (state of Apprenticeships in the UK) didn’t particularly interest me. I really don’t know why.
- Luck – Last week was the season finale.
- Happy Endings – Don’t know why, but E4 didn’t air an episode this week.
- The Ultimate Fighter – Not a really strong episode and the live fight at the end of the episode wasn’t the most exciting.
Bubbling Under/Honourable Mentions (besides the Dropouts)
Modern Family (US, UK airdate) – ABC, Sky 1; Scott & Bailey (UK) – ITV1; Touch (US) – FOX, Sky; Bob’s Burgers (US) – FOX; Silent Witness (UK) – BBC1.
The Television Power Rankings Week 8 (March 23 – 29)
April 2, 2012 § Leave a comment
Mad Men (From The Hollywood Reporter)
I’ve rewritten this several times in attempt to dampen my (probably over the top) gushing for the return of Mad Men. Simply said, Mad Men is crazy f*cking good. In this era of fantastically good television (Breaking Bad, Game Of Thrones, Justified, Southland, Homeland, The Thick of it… to name a few) Mad Men stands above the rest in a lot of ways. For one thing, it focuses on a subject than in and of itself can be rather mundane to everyone else but the participants, the workings of an ad agency. But the writing and genius of the creator Matthew Weiner (a staff writer from one of the previous era’s greatest TV shows The Sopranos) makes every moment gripping. It also helps that the TV show is a sort of period piece, taking place in the 60’s, a decade of enlightenment, and social struggle for women and minorities. Essentially it was also the time when the Madison Avenue men were kings. The protagonist Don Draper, the enigmatic, captivating creative director played so aptly by Jon Hamm, believes he is king and doesn’t fail to act like it. The series is also filled with other fully formed and equally captivating characters, whose life journeys are as important to the show as Don’s. Characters such as Peggy Olsen, a young driven creative struggling with life in and out of Madison Avenue, Pete Campbell, a young very hungry accounts manager, and Roger Sterling, a suave but aging named partner who’s time might be fast coming to an end.
It’s fifth season started this week’s Sunday after a long hiatus of almost two years. Concisely, the wait was due to contractual troubles between the creative and the finance. But I have to say, based on the premiere episodes (back to back episodes) it’s worked out well for both parties. As the wait only made us fans more appreciative of the return, in terms of viewing figures (in the US, Sky Atlantic’s figures were subpar) and critical reception.
In the UK, Twenty Twelve, one of the best TV comedies returned for a second series. It’s a mockumentary style comedy following the people organising the London Olympics. It’s really funny. Especially as it isn’t going for obvious gags, it’s real life of the surreal people working in the Olympics Deliverance Commission. It stars Hugh Bonneville (Downton Abbey) playing the straight man, opposite the crazies that are Amelia Bullmore (Scott & Bailey), Jessica Hynes (Spaced), Karl Theobold (Green Wing) and the not so crazy but always fantastic Olivia Coleman (she is in everything). Let’s see where it lands in the Power Rankings.
1. (*) Mad Men (US) – AMC, Sky Atlantic, Catch-up -iTunes
Mad Men returns roughly 9 months after the events of last season’s finale. Don is a changed man. He is unusually happy with his new wife Megan. Megan is reaping the benefits of her marriage but also some of the downsides. The Agency is still undergoing growing pains to Pete’s immense frustration, which is met with mostly nonchalance by the senior partners. Also, it happens to be Don’s 40th birthday. Let the celebrations commence… or maybe not…
2. (-) Justified (US) – FX, Catch-up – iTunes
As suspected Dickie Bennet’s release from prison only stirs up the boiling pot that is Harlan County. Boyd wants him dead. Limehouse wants him gone. But Dickie wants what’s rightfully his. Quarles also takes matters into his own hands in a brave attempt to reassert his dominance but he soon becomes the hunted. Raylan, representatives from the Detroit mob, and Boyd all attempt to deal with Quarles, but that’s easier said that done.
3. (*) Panorama: The Honeymoon Murder (UK) – BBC1, Catch-up – iPlayer
If you haven’t heard about and come to your own conclusion of the Anni Dewani murder while on honeymoon in South Africa with her husband and chief suspect Shrien Dewani, you should. It’s an enthralling case. My conclusion two years ago when this case was first reported was that Shrien was responsible. It only made sense. But after this enlightening documentary fronted by an excellent Jeremy Vine, showcasing the facts of the crime in a painstakingly objective manner, you will be forced to rethink your conclusion, and thank God you are not a juror.
4. (*) Twenty Twelve (UK) – BBC2, Catch-up – BBC iPlayer
The Olympic Deliverance Commission (ODC) is forced into action after Algeria threatens to boycott the games for specific religious purposes. France then threatens to boycott the games if the ODC cedes to Algeria’s demands. Then Morocco threatens to boycott the game in reaction to France threatening to boycott the games after Algeria threatened to boycott the games. A regular day’s work for the ODC it seems.
5. (+1) Spartacus (US) – Starz, Sky 1, Catch-up – iTunes
Ilithya returns home to Capua just in the nick of time to save Glaber from Seppia’s vengeance, twice. After this they both resolve to combine their considerable evil means and descend on the Capital. Varinius and his man attack the temple but Spartacus and his rebels are ready for the attack. They overpower Varinius and his men. There isn’t a moment for celebration though as Glaber and his men assault the temple. Spartacus and his rebels scurry into the mountains in the final moments of this penultimate season episode.
6. (*) Fringe (US) – FOX, Sky 1, Catch-up – iTunes
This episode was particularly strong because of what tied the serial arc of the season and the episodic arc together, true love. Maybe I’m just predisposed to appreciating this episode more than is norm because I once felt that feeling of being in love. Enough of me! The weekly baddie was particularly creepy as he preyed on couples in love. Olivia does her usual very best to catch him. Peter helps out the Observer, who repays Peter’s kindness.
7. (-) Awake (US) – NBC, Catch-up – iTunes
In his home life, Michael Britton struggles with his wife’s plan for them to move to Oregon. Her actions though aid him in his investigations of a serial killer in his other reality. This in turn leads him to being accused by an FBI profiler of committing the crimes as he can’t explain his train of thought that lead him to find evidence of a serial killer the profiler believes she has killed. The trust of Michael’s partner Det. Freeman, played so confidently by Steve Harris, is vital as they combine their efforts and rescue the profiler from the serial killer in the last moments of the episode.
8. (*) Luck (US) – HBO, Sky Atlantic, Catch-up – iTunes
Luck picked up its story telling in the last few episodes of this ill-fated series. As you might already know, during the production of the second season, a horse died. This led to HBO, alongside show-runner David Milch and Michael Mann to cancel production of the TV show. This makes this finale somewhat unfulfilling because it aptly set up the hope for an improved second season. This finale saw the culmination of the big race involving the Escalante trained Gus owned horse and Walter’s (Nick Nolte) horse. The unusually very good luck of Jerry and the gang continues. Gus takes care of Chester’s hitman and Michael’s villainous manner crescendos.
9. (*) Happy Endings (US, UK airdate) – ABC, E4, Catch-up – 4oD
Penny decides to enlist Alex in her diet. As you’d expect this turns out badly for Penny as Alex has a much stronger will power. Dave’s food truck gets a sudden boost of customers including Tom Hank’s son, Colin who makes a pretty neat guest appearance. Brad, Jane, and Max have sex dreams of Brad that terrifies them (and me).
10. (-2) Apprentice UK – BBC1, Catch-up – BBC iPlayer
(-5) The Ultimate Fighter (US-UK Simulcast) – FX, ESPN UK, Catch-up – YouTube
The body of both reality competitions wasn’t the most exciting. The task for the Apprentice was creating a household gadget. This is a herculean task considering the time constraints. As always the contestants powered through. In TUF the most notable thing that happened in the past week was a contestant almost injuring his knee. Both shows finished with a bang though, as is expected. The boardroom and eventual firing in the Apprentice was as feisty and combative as usual. The fight at the end of TUF was edge of your seat stuff, especially considering the stakes for both coaches and their teams.
Dropouts
- Bob’s Burgers – The episode was funny, but not yet at its first season heights of hilarity.
- Southland, Archer, The Walking Dead – Finale last week.
- John Bishop’s Sport’s Relief Hell – One off.
Bubbling Under/Honourable Mentions (besides the Dropouts)
The Good Wife (US) – CBS, More4; Death Row (UK) – Channel 4, Modern Family (US, UK airdate) – ABC, Sky 1; Scott & Bailey (UK) – ITV1; Touch (US) – FOX, Sky 1
The Television Power Rankings Week 7 (March 16 – 22)
March 26, 2012 § Leave a comment
I’ll declare that I am currently attempting to contain my excitement and anticipation for the upcoming weeks where Mad Men, Game of Thrones and The Killing (what! why? You just said… blame Joel Kinnaman) are returning with new season premieres. Like Bart Scott (fading NFL Linebacker… still lost? Google!) boisterously said ‘Can’t wait!’
This week in the UK brought the premiere of the new season of the Apprentice. I have long since dumped the US Celebrity Apprentice for obvious reasons (see week 6) so I had ample space in my not at all considerable Reality TV threshold. The UK Apprentice is also less hammy, but make no mistake it is hammy. There is the belief though, that the contestants as opposed to the celebrities have a lot vested into their fate in the competition. I also choose to believe these contestants have some smarts and business acumen, no matter how hard they, or the show’s editors strain to prove otherwise.
Across the Atlantic, there was the return of the Kiefer Sutherland fronted Tom Kring (Heroes) created TV show ‘Touch’ for its ‘Series Premiere’. Touch is a tough show to love, but I’m sticking to it because of Kiefer Sutherland, as 24 is my second best (The Wire is best… of course! My pretentiousness should’ve made that evident by now) TV series ever. Touch is about a father and his genius son who can’t speak but has a way with numbers. In fact I’ll go out on a limb and say THE way with numbers. Each weak through the son’s genius Kiefer goes around saving the world one incident at a time. I know, tough sell, at least for me, and Tim Kring’s not so excellent handling of the excellent premise of Heroes also has me worried. But in Jack Bauer we trust.
Last week though I missed the second season premiere of the Animated TV series ‘Bobs Burgers’. Well I didn’t but the episode didn’t linger at all in the mind as it was well below par in my estimation. So I forget to talk about it in context of the Power Rankings. This week though it returns to its very top form. Let’s see where it lands in the Power Rankings.
1. (-) Southland (US) – TNT, Catch-up – iTunes
The season finale of Southland took the baton from the excellent penultimate episode and sprinted to the finish with as much zeal as is expected. All the essential plot lines were tied up with aplomb. Lou Diamond Phillip’s guest appearance was very good and I hope he returns as a regular next season. Speaking of next season, I really hope TNT renews the series. I don’t see why not though.
2. (-) Justified (US) – FX, Catch-up – iTunes
Quarles downward spiral continues as he’s beat at his own game by Boyd Crowder. Against Raylan Givens tentative objections the last surviving member of the Bennett clan is released from prison to cause Limehouse quite a bit of trouble. A patented Justified ‘duel’ is stopped just in the nick of time. It is inevitable though. It will come.
3. (-) The Walking Dead (US) – AMC, FXUK Catch-up – iTunes
The Walking Dead finale was brilliant, in parts, and weak, in parts. But that is the Walking Dead way. Lots of zombies get killed, and I mean lots. Some peripheral characters get eaten. And finally there is movement, as our cast of characters flee the farm. A character is lost from the group, but found in a very cool way. Finally Rick becomes the man he has to be, the lead his ‘people’.
4. (+1) Archer (US) – FX, Catch-up – iTunes
The penultimate episode of Archer’s season includes an improbable voyage into space to combat a mutiny on a NASA spaceship. Hilarity ensues in the rather very brisk space-training programme. Bryan Cranston aptly voices a NASA space commander. The last scene is both very funny and an excellent set up for next week’s season finale.
5. (*) The Ultimate Fighter Live (US-UK Simulcast) – FX, ESPN UK, Catch-up – YouTube
I have the say this is my rather ingenious way of sneaking my favourite pastime, sports, into this blog. In terms of sports I don’t get any more fanatic than Mixed Martial Arts, the UFC to be precise. The Ultimate Fighter, UFC’s flagship reality competition has been going on for years but this season has a fantastic tweak. As usual 16 fighters are housed and split into teams coached by renowned UFC fighters, this year ex-champ Urijah Faber and current Bantamweight champ Dominick Cruz. The fighters are coached, and this season fight live in a winner goes on tournament style format at the end of each episode, until the final two are left standing to fight in the finale. Urijah and Dominick really don’t like each other, which adds a flavour to the competition. This week’s episode follows one of the fighters dealing with a personal loss and finishes with a fantastic KO in the live fight.
6. (-2) Spartacus (US, UK airdate) – Starz, Sky 1, Catch-up – iTunes
We segue to the scripted warriors of Spartacus. Gannicus peace offering to Spartacus doesn’t go as planned for anybody. It only makes Gannicus as much a wanted person in Capua as Spartacus. The politics in Capua continues to descend into lunacy as Glaber, Ashur and his men scour the streets looking for Gannicus. In the last scenes, Lucretia’s scheming eventually pays some dividends.
7. (-) Awake (US) – NBC, Catch-up – iTunes
A very good episode wherein the murders Michael attempts to solve in both realities, and his family drama, are equally strong. The story telling is striding along excellently but the ratings have been anemic at best. I fear for the future of Awake.
8. (*) Apprentice UK – BBC1, Catch-up – BBCiPlayer
The premiere of every Apprentice season is always difficult to watch, as the personalities of the candidates haven’t yet manifest. Your rooting interest is diminished, unless you are sexist, and or racist, or simply just a sadist. The task itself wasn’t the best, but the showdown in the boardroom always makes up for any lackluster tasks.
9. (*) Bob’s Burgers (US) – FOX, Catch-up – iTunes
In this week’s episode there is a hostage situation in Bob’s bank. Bob’s Burger place is the base for the FBI. Bob is adamant to get his Burger place on the news for publicity and this leads to becoming a hostage. All the while Bob’s wife Tina and their three kids do what they do… go crazy! Bob though saves the day in his own incidental manner.
10. (*) John Bishop’s Sports Relief Hell (UK) – BBC1, Catch-up – BBCiPlayer
I’ll declare right now that for no discernable reason, I am not a fan of Sports Relief, Comic Relief, Music Relief, Dance Relief… and Film Relief. But make no mistake I’m all for the right charity. Anyway I really like John Bishop. I’ve seen him live on stage, and he is a really funny dude. In this though, the laughs were sparse and rightfully so. It chronicles his efforts to get from Paris to Trafalgar Square, by cycling to the channel, rowing across the channel, and then doing several marathons to Trafalgar Square, all to raise money for charity. It is very heroic of him. And yes it is hell for him. I really applaud his efforts.
Dropouts
- Empire – A constant good performer. Some weeks other TV shows are just better.
- Happy Endings – Again, a good episode but just not top-10 worthy this week.
- New Girl – No new episode this week.
- The Good Wife – I actually preferred this week’s episode to last weeks. Just a stronger slate of TV shows this week.
I pretty much just gave the same reason three different ways for the dropouts. It is what it is.
Bubbling Under/Honourable Mentions (besides the Dropouts)
Touch (US) – FOX, Sky1; Panorama: Britain’s Crimes of Honour (UK) – BBC1; Modern Family (US, UK airdate) – ABC, Sky1; Scott & Bailey (UK) – ITV1; Luck (US) – HBO, Sky Atlantic
The Television Power Rankings Week 6 (March 9 – 15)
March 19, 2012 § Leave a comment
This week brought no ‘new’ or ‘returning’ TV shows that cracked my Power Rankings. Although, there was the return of ITV’s Scott & Bailey about female detective partners DC Janet Scott and DC Rachel Bailey. Their lives and the cases they investigate are equally showcased in the show. It is unique in that purview. The first season was top class drama in every sense. It was equally funny, dramatic and thrilling. The first and only episode that has aired so far this second season I thought was average at best. So much so that the show has dropped from live viewing as it’s in the same timeslot as Empire to the DVR (TiVo, Sky+) queue.
Let’s get to the Power Rankings
1. (+1) Southland (US) – TNT, Catch-up – iTunes
A very strong (redundant I know) episode that furthers the plot points involving all our three protagonist partnerships. The least major plot point of the series ends up being the most explosive in the last scene of this penultimate episode. Next week’s finale has been set up to finish nothing short of brilliant.
2. (-1) Justified (US) – FX, Catch-up – iTunes
This episode belongs to Mykelti Williamson’s Limehouse’s. His benevolence is starting to fade and his crooked teeth smile becoming more sinister as he chooses a side in the upcoming battle between the outsiders led by Detriot’s own Quarles versus Harlan’s own Raylan Givens and Boyd Crowder.
3. (+7) The Walking Dead (US) – AMC, FXUK Catch-up – iTunes
An episode that vastly increased in estimation as the episode went on and much more in the hours and days that followed. There was the inevitable death of a major character. In truth he/she had to go. But his/her death births many avenues for the show to excel. The recent casting of David Morrisey as a major adversary in the next season is excellent news and further promise for the show.
4. (+2) Spartacus (US, UK airdate) – Starz, Sky 1, Catch-up – iTunes
Nothing much happened with Spartacus and his legion of rebellious gladiators this week. It was more a placeholder episode for them. But the drama in Capua ratchets up beyond belief with Ashur and Gannicus in the forefront. Ashur transformation from loveable to detestable is the fastest I can remember in any ‘good’ TV shows.
5. (-2) Archer (US) – FX, Catch-up – iTunes
This week the love of Sterling Archer’s life returns… as a bionic woman. This brings with it all kinds of unusual problems including dumping her privates in the sink to be washed and polished by the butler. It concludes with a moral, people like to stick to their own, sometimes to the detriment of their happiness. Another hilarious episode.
6. (+3) Happy Endings (US, UK airdate) – ABC, E4, Catch-up – 4oD
This week the gang all attempt to make Max’s boyfriend feel welcome in their midst, for a change. But they take it too far, as it becomes competitive between the Williams (Brad and Jane) and Penny to be Max’s couples dinner date. Dave also attempts to prove that he’s the cool dude of the group. Whether he succeeds or not, is completely up for interpretation. Most sane people will think he doesn’t, his dad will appreciate his efforts.
7. (-3) Awake (US) – NBC, Catch-up – iTunes
Speaking of appreciating dads (wonderful segue right? And I swear that wasn’t planned. It just came to me… like damn! I’m a genius). Detective Michael Britton has to find his kidnapped son against time. He uses all his smarts, in both realities in his attempts to retrieve his son. Jason Isaacs’s performance is powerful. The show is settling into itself. Which is one of the best shows on Network TV and certainly the best new TV drama this year.
8. (*) The Good Wife (US) – CBS, Catch-up – iTunes, 4oD
This week’s episode brought back an old cunning adversary of the firm, only this time he is their client. Again things involving Alicia and or Will Gardner and or particularly the beyond smart Kalinda weren’t the most enjoyable aspects for me, but there were well contained in a story that made good use of Anna Camp’s Caitlin. On the ‘other’ side it was also a very good performance by Peter Florrick and Cary Agos.
9. (+1) New Girl (US, UK airdate) – FOX, Channel 4, Catch-up – 4oD
The amazing Schmidt has grown tired of sharing the bathroom with more and more females, only because this was a fantasy of his that turned out to be more than a nightmare. As he isn’t sleeping with any one of them and his towel is always wet. Jess has a problem with Nick’s girlfriends who portrays herself the alpha female to Jess’s sweet cuddly kittens (what does that even mean? Sounded right when I wrote it… I’m leaving it in) schoolteacher. The problem is resolved at the end of the episode in sweet sitcom fashion.
10. (*) Empire (UK) – BBC1, Catch-up – BBC iPlayer
This week Empire focused on the sport of the colonizers, the sport of war. Those that excelled at it, and those that excelled even in death. A wonderful documentary that doesn’t shy away from the brutality of the colonizers, and the equal brutality of those that fought back.
Dropouts
- Celebrity Apprentice – Adam Carolla was fired. I couldn’t bring myself to watch the episode.
- Storyville – This week’s episode wasn’t as gripping as Bare Knuckle.
Bubbling Under/Honourable Mentions
Modern Family (US, UK airdate) – ABC, Sky 1; Scott & Bailey (UK) – ITV; Luck (US) – HBO
The Television Power Rankings Week 4 (Feb 24 – March 1)
March 3, 2012 § Leave a comment
To start with, Hello to Jason Isaacs
This week brought us the premiere of Awake, the best US Network (like BBC1 to Channel 5 in the UK) drama since… Lone Star (what show is that? You just said… Wiki is your friend). Awake was sold on the spec (unsolicited non-commissioned… thanks Wiki) script of creative genius Kyle Killen. Kyle Killen created the best new drama last TV season, Lone Star. But for reasons known only to God and Nielsen (again, Wiki is your friend) box owners the show crashed and burnt, fast.
But this time 20th Century Fox chose to stack the deck so the past won’t repeat itself. It paired Kyle Killen with another creative genius, Howard Gordon. I spoke about Howard Gordon last week, as he is doing double duty with the best cable drama, Homeland. It also cast the amazing Jason Isaacs in its leads, and surrounds him aptly with Steve Harris, Wilma Valderrama, BD Wong, Cherry Jones, Laura Allen and more stellar TV actors.
It is a high concept drama about a police officer who after a severe car accident with his wife and son, seems to be living two lives. One where his wife is dead and son is alive, and another when he sleeps, where his son is dead and his wife is alive. He doesn’t know which is a dream and which is reality. I know, it seems complicated, but it’s not. The artistry involved in simplifying this concept to the audience is to be admired, gushed over. There is also a weekly police procedural for those who like such (I do) and a good one at that, the best since the American Prime Suspect, which was cancelled prematurely. It is an excellent show. I’m very excited by it’s ambitions. It is original to the core, which is due to the brilliant writing. It is also very well acted, and very well shot. Suffice it to say, it jumps it at number 1 in this week’s Power Rankings.
1. (*) Awake (US) – NBC, Catch-up – iTunes
Premiere episode. Detective Michael Britten gets used to his double life and some of its benefits. Besides still being able to still see his wife and son, he finds it helps with his investigations.
2. (+7) Spartacus (US, UK airdate) – Starz, Sky 1, Catch-up – iTunes
The best Spartacus episode of the season so far, and will do battle with any episodes from earlier seasons, although it will lose due to the absence of John Hannah’s Batiatus. This week brings the return of one of my favourite characters, the return of some of our central characters to the arena, and ends with a daring rescue mission.
3. (-1) Southland (US) – TNT, Catch-up – iTunes
A better episode that last week’s, but falls a place only due to the excellence of Spartacus and Awake. This week’s episodes showcased the strains on the important partnerships involved in the very stressful job of the police, especially uniformed patrolling officers. There is also a good murder case for our homicide detectives to investigate.
4. (+1) Justified (US) – FX, Catch-up – iTunes
This week’s episode didn’t have much of an episodic story, but it was more a set-up episode of the serial arc. Raylan, Boyd, Limehouse and Quarles circle each other in preparation for the inevitable showdown. And, in the final scenes an old character is brought back.
5. (+1) Archer (US) – FX, Catch-up – iTunes
Firstly as it happens Ray is a liar. Sterling, Cheryl, and Ray go to the country to help Ray’s lying (runs in the family) adulterous, drug dealing, sorry farmer brother, from a tough situation involving the hometown sheriff. “Eerily similar to the plot of white lightning.” Sterling aptly quips. The rest of the ISIS gang in HQ try to keep Malory from finding out about the off the books mission.
6. (+4) The Walking Dead (US) – AMC, FXUK Catch-up – iTunes
Rick and Shane finally do battle for leadership, but an avalanche of zombies interrupts the battle. Rick is left to make a tough, life dependent decision. At the farm, Lori and Andrea begin their battle. A lot of zombies are killed in this episode, the knife being the weapon of choice.
7. (*) Luck (US) – HBO, Catch-up – iTunes
Bromance flourishes between Marcus and Jerry. Turo Escalante is put in his place, although kicking and screaming, by Chester and Gus. There is another amazingly shot, emotionally charged horse race.
8. (*) Empire (UK) – BBC1, Catch-up – iTunes
Empire is a factual based TV series based on Jeremy Paxman’s book of the same title about how a small island nation, United Kingdom, came to rule a quarter of the world. This week was the first episode and involves the initial stages of the UK’s forays into colonization, its ingenuity and its struggles. Starting with the immensely rich Indian nation, Egypt and Palestine.
9. (-2) Happy Endings (US, UK airdate) – ABC, Channel 4, Catch-up – 4oD
Happy Endings maintains its stellar standards with this episode. Dave and Alex call an intervention for Dave’s unhealthy love of V-necks. Brad and Jane battle with their past, and Penny takes one last attempt at changing a man.
10. (*) New Girl (US, UK airdate) – FOX, Channel 4, Catch-up – 4oD
A Christmas episode brings the inevitable demise of Jess’s relationship with Paul played by guest-star Justin Long. Schmidt’s patented obliviousness leads to the best make your own perfume gift ever (not really) to Cece. Nick misses his flight home, again. And Winston is finally recognised as the best basketball player alive.
Dropouts
- The Life and Times of Tim – Finale last week. I miss it already.
- Inside Men – Finale last week.
- ESPN Films – No new episode this week.
- The Good Wife – No new episodes this week.
Bubbling Under/Honourable Mentions
Fringe (US, UK airdate) – FOX, Sky 1; Coppers (UK) – Channel 4; Modern Family (US, UK airdate) – ABC, Sky 1
Even rising stars need a Safe House… just ask Ryan Reynolds
March 1, 2012 § Leave a comment
The next generation of movie stars (in this case, actors) that can open a movie, which means to lead a movie to box office success primarily on their back, on the strength of their name “above the title” seemingly isn’t coming. In more urban colloquial speak these dogs can’t hunt. This is in spite of the serious push by the industry to create, manufacture, and occasionally bludgeon the audience with a supposedly rising star only to see him transform into a meteor when not wearing underwear over tights, without fangs, or in anything without a considerable pre-existing fan base. This could have more to do with the type of studio films being made nowadays than the actors because the actors are, in my estimation, rather very good. But either way, the spate of meteors grows ever larger.
I’ll name a few young Actors whom you’d swear are “Movie Stars”
Chris Pine (Star Trek) failed to launch This Means War even with the help of Reese Witherspoon and fellow rising star Tom Hardy (Inception) who also failed with the critically lauded Warrior. Captain America himself Chris Evans (Fantastic Four) failed with The Losers (also a comic book adaptation and with the great Idris Elba) and What’s Your Number (remember this? I didn’t). Avatar’s Sam Worthington (Terminator, Clash of the Titans) failed dismally with Man on a Ledge. Twilight Guy (yes I know I could easily Google his name but I’m taking a stand! Who’s coming with me!) failed with Remember Me (I don’t) but did admirably with Reese Witherspoon in Water For Elephants. Which brings us finally to the subject of today’s conversation, the cool Canadian, Ryan Reynolds.
Ryan Reynolds had been bucking the trend, his star was steady rising, he dated Scarlett Johansson for BEEP sake. The past year though has been rough on Ryan, the failure Buried could be ignored, a good film but maybe a tough sell. But the failure of his two highly promoted films that followed, The Change-Up with Jason Bateman, and the summer blockbuster that was to be the DC Comics franchise starter, Green Lantern, could not be ignored. His marketability was in question, his star quickly transforming into a meteor. Then came the clincher (in my HONEST opinion), his relationship with Scarlett Johansson ended. Not good.
But fear not, Ryan Reynolds is back atop the box office with Safe House. Paired with bona fide movie star Denzel Washington, who was paired successfully last year with Chris Pine in Unstoppable. Safe House is doing excellently in the box office, both domestically (US) and foreign. Why? Market research in the first week of release says most of the audience skewed older (62% over 30) and were drawn to the movie by the appeal of Denzel Washington doing the loveable bad guy shtick he did spectacularly in American Gangster and Training Day, followed by the type of film. Hmm, so has Ryan Reynolds fallen that far? I don’t think so, and on the strength of his performance in Safe House and Safe House’s performance in the Box Office, I‘d say his star is bound to be on the rise again, starting now.
Now we discuss the film (better late than never I’d say). Safe House is an action Thriller with just a smidgen of espionage set in Cape Town. It starts with rouge CIA agent played by Denzel Washington showing up in a safe house operated by bored and underused Ryan Reynolds. Ryan Reynolds’s character has to protect Denzel Washington’s character from determined mercenaries while attempting to transport him to safety. Problem is Denzel Washington’s character, immensely dangerous and deceptive to the core, wants nothing of safety as he hints at corruption and betrayal within the CIA.
Safe House is a good solid Action Film with a good, although unsurprising plot. It has more than its fair share of fight scenes, mostly shootouts, performed really well in the unique setting of Cape Town. All the performances are very good. The supporting cast: Brendan Gleeson, Vera Farmiga, Sam Shepard and in particular Joel Kinnaman (more on him to come) do excellently with what they are given. Of course, you expect nothing less than solid from Denzel Washington but Ryan Reynolds holds his own opposite Denzel Washington in every facet, especially as his character has more to do, more of a character journey.
There is nothing to dislike about Safe House but nothing to love either. It is good. If you like the premise, if the excellent trailer wet your appetite, then don’t miss it.
I did dislike the end of the film but that has more to do with my peculiarity than the movie.
I’ll end where I began, with the rising stars. This year, we, the audience, are going to be beaten over the head by the studios hoping to make Taylor Kitsch a movie star. He’s in blockbuster, John Carter (not looking good from the trailer), another blockbuster, Battleship (ditto), and Oliver Stone’s Savages (I love the premise). I love Tim Riggins (Taylor Kitsch in Friday Night Lights) so this here is a catch-22. Although, my prediction for a Movie Star in about 5 years is Joel Kinnaman (might know him from American The Killing). He has a powerful screen presence and he’s been tapped to be Robocop in the Franchise reboot. Anyway, if this prediction happens to be wrong, in 5 years you’d have forgotten all about it… if not, get a life.
The Television Power Rankings Week 3 (Feb 17 – 23)
February 25, 2012 § Leave a comment
This week didn’t bring any new TV shows eligible for the Power Rankings although there is a newcomer. ESPN Films: Unguarded, which is a documentary from the ESPN on-going stable. This stable is the successor to the very successful ESPN 30 for 30 series of documentaries last year, which had such classics as “The Two Escobars”, “Pony Express”, “No Crossover: The Trail of Allen Iverson” and “Without Bias” to name just a few.
This week brought the UK premiere on Channel 4 of the best TV show of the past year, the Golden Globes best TV drama winner “Homeland”. From the creatives that gave us the supremely great “24”, Howard Gordon & Alex Gansa, and based on an original Israeli TV show. It stars Clair Danes and Damian Lewis as the central characters of a volatile, unstable, and driven CIA agent, and a hero soldier who’s just returned from years in captivity with the Taliban, respectively. The central plot line of the series is Clair Danes character Carrie Matheson’s staunch although wavering belief that Damian Lewis’s character Nicholas Brody has been turned, and is plotting an attack on America. It is beyond excellent in every gauge of excellence a TV show is measured. Please watch, either Sundays 9PM on Channel 4, or Catch-up on 4oD. I’ve already seen the entire season run when it aired on Showtime, so it is not eligible for my Power Rankings. But suffice it to say, if it were, it’ll be no.1 every week it airs an episode.
Also, this week was the finale of last week’s no.1 “The Life and Times of Tim” and perennial contender “Inside Men”. Let’s see where they place on the Power Rankings.
1. (-) Life and Times of Tim (US) – HBO, Catch-up – iTunes
Oh how I will miss Tim, The Boss, Stu, Rodney and others… Life and Times of Tim ended its third season run with literally a smash. Hopefully it returns. Please HBO bring it back. You freaking renewed Enlightened for BEEP sake and that show was…(deleted due to extreme vulgarity and opinions that might be offensive to a large proportion of decent people and detrimental to the success of this website)… but saying all that, I trust HBO. Life and Times of Tim is great, yeah I said it, great.
2. (+1) Southland (US) – TNT, Catch-up – iTunes
Southland is a consistently brilliant show. Lucy Liu has never been better. In this week’s episode, amongst other things a camera crew follows a pair of our favourite patrolling officers. The last scene will make you completely hate documentary cameramen. Well, I now do.
3. (+2) Inside Men (UK) – BBC1, Catch-up – BBC iPlayer
The finale wrapped the serial very nicely. The payoff for each of our central characters is very satisfactory. Although considering this is a show about a money depot heist, the payoff certainly isn’t what you’d expect. Steven Mackintosh is most definitely the frontrunner for the BAFTA TV leading man at this moment, and I do not see how he will be beaten. A very good job BBC Drama. Please more of this and less of Upstairs Downstairs.
4. (*) ESPN Films: Unguarded – ESPN
Unguarded is a documentary following recover(-ing/-ed) drug addict and ex-NBA player Chris Herren. His story made me cry several times, but the love and strength of his family, and his present strength and eloquence made me belief there is always a way back in life. No matter how far you’ve fallen, however dire your circumstance, you can make it, if you believe.
5. (-3) Justified (US) – FX, Catch-up – iTunes
Front and centre in this week’s episode were plot points I do not care much for. Raylan Givens and his wife/ex-wife Winona’s will they won’t they relationship. And, Boyd Crowder’s oddly almost incestuous relationship with his dead brother’s wife Ava. But the story arcs, and performances of our ‘villains’ Mykelti Williamson as Limehouse and Neal McDonough as Quarles kept the episode superb.
6. (-2) Archer (US) – FX, Catch-up – iTunes
It boggles the mind how a terrific series like Archer continues to fall, even though it is consistently laugh out loud funny. In this week’s episode the ISIS gang including a very reluctant Sterling Archer come together to help rescue Malory Archer from a sticky situation.
7. (+2) Happy Endings (US, UK airdate) – ABC, Channel 4, Catch-up – 4oD
In this week’s episode joining the friends are a racist parrot, the only saving grace of Will & Grace (unintended pun… I promise) Megan Mullally and a cameo from Ed Begley Jr. playing himself to hilarious effect.
8. (*) The Good Wife (US) – CBS, Catch-up – iTunes, 4oD
After missing a week due to the Grammy broadcast on CBS. The Good Wife returns to its consistent good form. In this week’s episode Will Gardner finally faces the consequences of his actions. And the main plot of the episode involves not at all tangentially the Arab Spring. With each episode though I only wish Alicia Florrick ceases from being the central character. She is the most uninteresting character on the show.
9. (*) Spartacus (US, UK airdate) – Starz, Sky 1, Catch-up – iTunes
Spartacus makes its first appearance in the Power Rankings. This week’s episode wasn’t particularly more stellar than the three before it. It is like soft porn, although sometimes not at all soft. The politics involving Lucretia, Ilithyia’s desires, her father and her husband is increasing in stakes and juice rapidly. But yes, the change of actors portraying certain characters is becoming jarring.
10 (-) The Walking Dead (US) – AMC, Catch-up – iTunes
The writers of The Walking Dead need to quickly realise and do a rapid course correction on the fate of their central characters because Shane is the only plausible likable and most importantly, active character on the show, as opposed to their lead, the passive character vacuum that is Rick. Still though, The Walking Dead always has zombies getting blasted, this week is no exception.
Dropouts
- Coppers – I’m not very keen on dogs.
- Luck – Nothing of consequence happened besides a good horse race.
- Panorama – Missed this week’s episode. Catch-up later on BBC iPlayer
Bubbling Under/Honourable Mentions
Fringe (US, UK airdate) – FOX, Sky 1; New Girl (US, UK airdate) – FOX, Channel 4; Modern Family (US, UK airdate) – ABC, Sky 1
The Television Power Rankings Week 2 (Feb 10 – 16)
February 17, 2012 § Leave a comment
The stable of TV shows to pick from remains the same besides a couple additions. The premiere of ABC’s The River, which is touted as a replacement to Lost. It is an amalgamation of the paranormal and the supernatural. Which is not surprising as the creator of the show is the creator of Paranormal Activity franchise (which I’ve never watched… with intent). It has a found footage concept. This works, although initially seemingly forced. The problem with the show as of yet though is that I do not care for any the characters. That is the problem with the high concept Lost replacement TV shows that have failed (Flash Forward & The Event). Good concepts but really boring characters. Think Lost; Jack, Locke, Sawyer, Sayid, Kate, Ben and more… So suffice it to say, The River doesn’t crack the Power Rankings.
The second addition is the return of The Walking Dead. An even worse offender of incredible concept and really, really, really, boring and dire characters. But The Walking Dead has zombies, and it has pedigree, so let’s see where it lands on the Power Rankings.
1. (+3) Life and Times of Tim (US) – HBO, Catch-up – iTunes
In this week’s episode Tim gets involved with a gambling addicted Priest, who at one point prays to his God, ‘Dear Lord, what has this fuckface (Tim) done…’ Life and Times of Tim is as funny as adult animation can get. It doesn’t go for the cheap laughs either like the Seth MacFarlane stable (Family Guy, American Dad, Cleveland Show) which I do enjoy, and isn’t as downright offensive as South Park, which I also enjoy, but its brilliant and better all the same. Bob’s Burgers (not currently airing) and Archer are its closest competitors.
2. (-) Justified (US) – FX, Catch-up – iTunes
Justified this week followed up last week’s stellar episode with a Crank-esque type episode. But instead of the awesome Jason Statham, it was the character known as Devil going on a rampage, well attempted rampage to retrieve his kidneys. Raylan Givens does Raylan Givens, Boyd Crowder does Boyd Crowder and the villains are beginning to settle into their inevitable season arcs.
3. (-2) Southland (US) – TNT, Catch-up – iTunes
There is little serialized in Southland. It is neither a pure procedural. It is just a perfect show about the hectic days of patrolling police officers in LA. And also a pair of homicide detectives played aptly by Dorian Missick and Regina King.
4. (-1) Archer (US) – FX, Catch-up – iTunes
This week is Sterling Archer’s birthday… that is a precursor for a lot of hilarity. Only furthered by a neat Dodge product placement and his mothers superb parenting skills.
5. (-) Inside Men (UK) – BBC1, Catch-up – BBC iPlayer
Inside Men gets better with every episode, actually every scene. John, played by Steven Mackintosh is beginning to assert himself as a criminal mastermind. Chris, played by Ashley Walters is beginning to waver in his desire to go through with the plans. And Marcus, played by Warren Brown is showing himself to be rather useful at being useless.
6. (+3) Luck (US) – HBO, Catch-up – iTunes
Luck sped out of the blocks this week (yes… a racing pun. Sue me). Everything is settling into its place in the third episode. Dustin Hoffman is excellent, so is Denis Farina and John Ortiz. David Milch is amazing with his dialogue and his steady unflinching, sometimes slow pace to reach the climax of his show. But it’s always a fun ride (another horse racing pun… yes what? … sue me! … Straight cash homie! #RandyMoss)
7. (-1) Coppers (UK) – Channel 4, Catch-up – 4oD
“This episode joins the officers of Nottinghamshire Police’s Territorial Support Group (TSG) as they fight crime across the county from their van, which also serves as an office, canteen, home and cell.” Straight out of Channel 4 website episode guide. It was just apt. Incredible show, hope it’s re-commissioned for a third series and we get to join homicide police.
8. (*) Panorama – Poor America (UK) – BBC1, Catch up- BBC iPlayer
As with most social documentaries (if you can call Panorama a documentary) in America there is a stench of politics hovering over every shot. Who is to blame for the situation of the poor in America losing their safety net? It’s happening in a time where a Democrat is the President. A democrat who preached hope and change… but it is also Republican policies that have lead to this dire situation… all supposedly. The episode is bleak, dire and unrelenting. It takes no prisoners. It is thought provoking. That is what Panorama is, and always will be. This week’s episode was just more of that.
9. (-2) Happy Endings (US, UK airdate) – ABC, Channel 4, Catch-up – 4oD
This week the gang attempts to find out which of them is most vain. If dating your friend’s therapist is a good idea. And what the point is for a successful black person to have white friends if he’s always still stuck with the bill.
10. (*) The Walking Dead (US) – AMC, Catch-up – iTunes
The Walking Dead is a show about the zombie apocalypse. It should be better. It really should. It’s in the Power Ranking only due to its promise. The last scene in this week’s episode largely furthered that promise. A good pivotal scene for one of the major characters, but right now, opportunity lost for the show as a whole… but we’ll see.
Dropouts
- The Good Wife – No new episode this week.
- Mad Dogs – Absurd season finale.
Bubbling Under/Honourable Mentions (still not decided which name yet)…
Fringe (US, UK airdate) – FOX, Sky 1; Spartacus (US, UK airdate) – Starz, Sky 1; New Girl (US, UK airdate) FOX, Sky 1
filmmuse 