Parting With Pawnee

Early yesterday morning on the way to work, I had the car radio turned down low. I was very drowsy, but my brain instantly perked up when I started to quietly hear a familiar sound of a drum beating, then strings, and on top of that, some sort of woodwind instrument. After turning up the volume, my happy instincts were correct - the music playing was the perky theme that welcomed viewers to the world of Pawnee, Indiana for the last six years.

The station had used the music as an introduction to their own story about the Parks and Recreation finale, but I wasn't paying attention to what those jockeys had to say. Hearing that music (playing on the radio of all places, instead of the familiar flickering tube) triggered a reaction in my brain. The thoughts I should have had the night the episode aired, but didn't, because NBC placed it in a 10 PM time slot (whaaa?) and I had to race right to sleep the instant the credits rolled, instead of sitting and digesting the finale to one of the funniest and most genuine shows to hit the airwaves. Some of us have to wake up early, what can I say.

It may have taken until the following morning to finally have a moment, but after hearing that little familiar ditty, it all really sunk in - Parks and Recreation is over. Gone are the days of getting excited to tune in to a new episode just anticipating the fun antics that the writers have cooked up for those kooky, lovely characters we have grown to love.

It is rather terrific that on a show with an extensive main cast, plus all of the can't believe they got them guest stars and other randomly delightful oddities floating around (Pawnee was full of 'em), that every different character had numerous admirable traits/repetitive bits that made them hilarious and integral to the show.

There was Ben bringing endless joy to the people at an accounting firm that, no matter what, thought he was the shit, confusion over Jerry/Terry/Larry/Barry/Garry (and he just went with the flow), Burt Macklin, Janet Snakehole, Tommy Fresh with his DJ Roomba and glamping,  Jean Ralphio's masterful singing, Donna's Treat-Yo-Self,  Ron's (out of character) pure love of Li'l Sebastain, and finally, Leslie's perfect gift giving and wise words that filled endless binders with kindness/plans/and a tad bit of crazed enthusiasm, but she always had her priorities straight.

That's just a small glimpse at all of the hilarious idiosyncrasies that made the world of Pawnee unique and endlessly fun. Even when the final season jumped forward a few years to 2017 and all the characters lives were jumbled around, the writers did an excellent job of making sure everyone still had their same spirit. The time change only advanced their lives - just like in the real world, where we get older and want different things.

[Scene from season three's, "The Fight" - a hall of fame level episode for all of television.]

Progressing the show into the future was probably the smartest idea anyone could have dreamed up. We always knew that these people were going to move on to bigger things that meant spending some time outside of their treasured little city, Pawnee. The time shift allowed us all to actually see it happen instead of just imagine what could have been or hope would show up as storylines in the eventual reunion movie 20 years from now.

Had it aired for 10 seasons, we might have been able to see that progression a little slower or even been given more details (like, for example, what exactly does Andy do in D.C.?). Really though, we've all seen the slow demise of shows that go on for endless seasons. I just freaked out after noticing that Grey's Anatomy is on season 11! It's not worth it.

A little mystery also never hurt anybody. The final episode included a few enigma's, one which eluded to a character having a job far in the future that required The Secret Service, if you catch my drift. It could have just been really well dressed limo drivers though.

Even with a few well placed puzzles that left fans filled with questions, it is very apparent that the writers worked extra hard to give every character their moment to shine in the final episodes. [It's a shame that this week also meant a sad goodbye for one such talented writer.]  Parks and Recreation will fall into the same category of numerous shows that have ended in the last couple years which have proven that it is much better to give it all you got for a shorter amount of time, even if it means leaving fans upset and wanting more.

Knowing the show was going to end only seemed to really make it shine. The time shift even gave the story a fresh start to jump off from. The funny thing is, Parks didn't even need a gimmick or reinvention, because it was still good, but it just was a really genius idea to move it all along.

Imagined life in 2017 may have been filled with 3D projecting phones and Grizzle sponsored drones dropping off packages at our doorsteps (those technological predictions alone is an example of what makes this show eternally enjoyable), but the last minutes of the finale entirely wrapped up the overall feeling that we should all take away from the show. Not even an advancing world of technology could change Leslie Knope. 

The patron saint of ladies with ambition, Ms. Knope is simply the ultimate ambassador for respect, love, and hope. She made it seem possible to just be happy helping people fix something as simple as a swing or turning a giant pit into a park. With her leading the charge, it also let us all imagine that the government could include people who actually want to get things done in a positive way. That our country could be run with honest ideals and be successful. Putting characters like Leslie - smart, independent, forward thinking women - on television empowers us all to feel like we can do better.

Now, I know there are real life Leslie Knope's already out there - I applaud you. For those still looking to be inspired to do more, even though the show is over, there is still a lot of good that can come just by channeling Leslie Knope in your every day life, and I hope people continue to do so. Be prepared - there are a lot of waffles involved.

Not to end on such a serious note, since this is also the show that brought you a children's television host named "Johnny Karate" and phrases like, "chicky-chicky-parm-parm."

All that heart exuded by Ms. Knope and many of the other characters as well, just makes the show that much more memorable. We've got a classic on our hands.



Until next time.

Bye Bye Bravermans

Just like much of the current television viewing populace, I very much enjoy a TV drama filled with crazy apocalypse situations or terrible villains that need to be caught. There are after-all an endless array of these playing on TV everyday. But after the cloud of dust stirred up during a New Mexico drug bust clears and all the blood from an intense murder spree is mopped up, there is something to be said about any pure of heart and good-natured series that emerges from all that wreckage.

Without any complicated frills, there is a show that simply focuses on a family. It documents the ups and downs in life that we all have or could eventually experience. It never got as much attention or viewers as its graphic television cousins, which is very sad to admit, especially for something so completely original. Surprisingly, it really is unlike anything else playing on our screens. To top it all off, there's bad news y'all - it just aired its final episode last Thursday.

There is great news for fans and future fans who are destined to discover its magicalness on Netflix (where all past seasons are currently streaming) - the show went out in classy perfection.

What will the the realm of TV look like without a show like Parenthood?  First and foremost, TV land will be missing a true beating heart.

The show really is an emotional cornerstone in today's pop culture. Over the last couple years, Parenthood has become known as the show that will make you "ugly cry" at least once (but more likely a couple times) during every episode. I can attest to its power to make any level headed person a sobbing wreck in no time flat. My tough exteriored bro even broke down during the closing minutes of the finale.

Some may think, "Cry my eyes out? What is this schmaltz!?" Such cold hearted folk! We can all use a little outlet for a cry now and then.  

Parenthood is able to tap into viewers tear ducts so well simply in the way the show mastered the art of writing about and capturing life in an entirely natural way. It was so well done that viewers were given no choice but to highly connect to the stories and characters.

The on point writing, a large, wonderful cast, and the beyond perfect use of songs to play over many of the scenes, also work into gaining that extra personal feel.

Just a quick note about the music - in the finale alone, try to not be utterly SLAYED in the way "Always You" by Ingrid Michelson and the cover of the show's theme song, "Forever Young", sung by Rhiannon Giddens and Iron &Wine, contribute to several moments. I can't even talk about it - I'll just keep getting chills.


Much of the credit for all this heartfelt fan attachment is owed to the creator/writer/director/producer, Jason Katims, who orchestrated it all.

We have all been gifted countless tremendous fictional worlds because of Katims - who also created/wrote the top-notch series, Friday Night Lights. Not to mention, he penned several episodes of the classic My So Called Life, including, in my opinion, an episode that is one of the all time best and most heartbreaking episodes of television ("So-Called Angels"). The man's a genius and really knows how to reach in deep to pull true emotions out of viewers - I think almost anyone on Earth would agree.

In the case of Parenthood alone, Katims will be known for creating a show with a legacy of a family focused television drama that succeeded without all that cheese and over the top nonsense.

There are many moments throughout the series that can sum up the pure, wonderful feeling this show exhibits throughout every minute of the series. There is one scene in particular though that could represent the overall spirit that the show will be remembered for.

One of the main storylines running throughout the series is that one of the kids, Max, has Asperger's syndrome. In one episode, he is the brunt of an unspeakably cruel prank on a school trip and his parents have to come pick him up. In the back seat of the car, Max erupts with pained frustration over why no one likes him.

As he is talking, we look on at his parents (played beautifully by Peter Krause and Monica Potter) faces in the front seat - just one look at those two and you can easily see how completely devastated they are for their son. His mom eventually crawls into the back seat and hugs him, as she is at a loss for what else could possibly help.

It is such a simple and effective scene, powerfully making us all, if you have children or not, understand a parent's fear that their kids won't be treated well in the world. Oh, geez, I got all teary-eyed just remembering that moment. But that's what this show does best - make us feel something.

Even though it may seem like it with how I have described the show so far, the Bravermans aren't always dealing with a crisis. Just like life, there is always opportunity to laugh it off. The terrific writing and the entire marvelous cast, that is completely jam packed with actors who can go from wacky to dramatic yelling in no time flat,  work together to create just as many smile worthy, laugh out loud moments that fall in between all that crying. These small funny moments are almost what I am going to miss more than all the sentimentality.

Many of the lighter scenes, like all those times they have a family dinner, will instantly make you feel like you are watching your aunts and uncles hanging out together goofing off. It's all slightly dorky and you're mostly embarrassed for them, but you also can't help but join in or watch from a far admiring that these are the really fun parts of being a family.

Also, if you haven't seen this show yet, just wait to be introduced to "The Fever". I'll leave you all in suspense.

Six seasons have flown by, and although it is sad to think it has ended, it's hard to argue if a show can be wrapped up as wonderfully as Parenthood did.

To me, while great, the last episode felt a tad rushed, and now especially after seeing that scenes were cut, I wish it could have at least had an extra half hour tacked on. Come on NBC, finales are always longer than a typical episode! I'm just sour with them all over the place - due to how they are also quickly "forcing" out Parks and Recreation, aka, their only other quality show. Sorry Blacklist fans.

There aren't any dragons or goofy scientists or Olivia Pope or whatever kind of person is on NCIS, but Parenthood didn't ever need any gimmicks. Story, natural acting by a group of wonderful performers, and more story - for me that is what always makes something worthwhile. What a delight. Such powerful simplicity will be missed.

Oh, did I mention, this show will make you completely love Dax Shephard. Now that is saying something.


So long Bravermans - until next time. 



P.S. - Seriously fans, band together to get Parenthood much needed accolades in its final year. The petition to get this dang show an Emmy nomination of any sort starts here.

I know in the long scheme of world importance that awards don't mean anything really, but the attention would be a nice send off for such a talented group of folks. If Coach Taylor can win in his final season, Parenthood could too.

Keep The Fever alive and tell your friends. 

Commercially Successful

Celebrities used to turn their noses up at the prospect of being on television. It was either be in the movies are nothing else would do!

Now that TV is producing high quality, thought provoking, artsy entertainment, that sentiment has entirely changed.  So much so, even commercials are featuring A-List celebrities.

If you're good at recognizing voices, you already know that just about every voice-over in a  commercial is done by big stars. Not to mention, the much talked about ads starring Matthew McConaughey and Will Ferrell as Ron Burgundy. In both those cases, the cars they were promoting saw a huge rise in sales. This trend of big names promoting products will not end any time soon.

He may not be getting as big of roles as McConaughey anymore, but I'm not surprised that Rob Lowe has also made a must-see commercial. Since becoming the excitable like a bunny and huge health nut Chris Traeger on Parks and Recreation, the guy has repeatedly undergone the transformation from leading man to zany character actor.

We'll never forget his dreamboat, straight man years, in such productions as, St. Elmo's Fire, The West Wing, and the memorable Lifetime miniseries, Beach Girls, but embracing his weird side is the best decision he has ever made made. 

From his waxy, pliable looking face that was all done up to play Liberace's plastic surgeon in Behind the Candelabra, to now donning everything from a fanny pack to Sasquatch like body hair. Lowe has recently fully committed to  playing numerous characters in a hilarious string of commercials.

What just started as one ad turned into a series. It seemed like a new one would debut every couple days over a month. Every time Rob Lowe came on the screen, you'd wonder what new character they had come up with this time. It was actually exciting. It's been a long time since I felt that way about, of all things, a commercial.




Watching football has become even better this year. These four ads for Direct TV will cycle through multiple times during a single game and it doesn't appear anyone has gotten sick of them yet.

It does turn out however, that there has been a backlash against the ad seen above.

According to an interview with The Associated Press, the International Paruresis Association (a group which represents people who have "shy bladder syndrome") would like Direct TV to stop playing the commercial. They feel it makes a mockery out of those who suffer from the condition.

Not to be insensitive, but probably plenty of people who have tons of body hair might not love one of the other TV spots either. There is always going to be someone that is offended by something.

In the end we should all take a deep breath and realize Direct TV isn't out to get us. Are you still pissed International Paruresis Association? Don't get Direct TV - that will show 'em.

The rest of us will just be over here enjoying Lowe in all his acting glory. Here's hoping for some new ads in the future.


Until next time.

Everyone Looks Good In A Sheinhardt

In the internet cliques that write about and consume pop culture, all the buzz this week revolved around the kick off of  fall TV. New series like Gotham, Madam Secretary, Forever, and The Mysteries Of Laura have burst on to the stage for prime-time spots on some of the biggest networks.

However, new doesn't always mean better. It seems like mostly everything is getting ho-hum reactions. Except for the uproarious reaction last night to the Viola Davis starring, How To Get Away With Murder.

More shows will still be rolling out over the next couple weeks, including the return of already established favorites (Parenthood's final season!) Even so, none of these options are going to fill the giant hole that has been vacated since we saw Liz Lemon and Criss Cross ride off into the sunset together. Or more accurately, riding off in one of those flying machines from Star Wars.

It's been a couple years now without new episodes, but when it comes to 30 Rock,  there is no greater comedy worth spending time on repeat viewings. The episodes don't get tired or boring - each one actually gets better.

I hadn't watched the series from the beginning in awhile, so even in the face of all the new television offerings, it also seemed like an opportune time to revisit old favorites.

Due to its quick wit and cleverly worded jokes coming at you in repeated succession, its impossible to catch every single hilarious tidbit thrown at the audience.

Jokes could even sail by completely unnoticed. Especially when frequently a single quip could cause uproarious laughing fits that would carry over for minutes afterward. With this in mind, I actually got in the habit of watching each new episode the night it aired and then again the following day.

At this point in my current re-watch I'm only a little way into season two and there is already endless amusing banter to discuss.




From the very beginning of season one the stories and cast put together a show that has such a high level of cleverness. There are the zany antics of self absorbed  TGS cast members, Tracy Jordan (Tracy Morgan) and Jenna Maroney (Jane Krakowski, in the whacked-out role of a lifetime), mixed brilliantly with current events. 30 Rock may even be the first media to (in this case jokingly) point out how important one letter can be when it comes to "Osama" vs "Obama".

Jenna making the said extreme faux-pas (seen in the above clip) is from episode 15, "Hardball". The first season is great as a whole (including episode 10, "The Rural Juror"), but "Hardball"  feels like the ultimate moment where all of Tina Fey's dreams for a TV show perfectly converged together.

In just 22 minutes this single episode finds Jenna posing for a ridiculous photo-spread, then falling from grace after being misquoted in a magazine, and making a fool of herself in a TV interview. To top it off, Kenneth Ellen Parcell becomes part of Tracy's entourage, which results in Grizz and Dot Com being out of a job.

Turns out Kenneth's gangly, fragile frame, makes him the worst choice for a bodyguard. This is all the perfect set up to a classic comedy payoff. Tracy finds himself stuck and panicked in the middle of a raging crowd, but thankfully Grizz and Dot Com come out of nowhere to push the protestors aside, sweeping Tracy up in their arms à la The Bodyguard. Oh, and by the way, this is all set to a version of "I Will Always Love You", sung by Tracy Morgan and Jack McBrayer.












Finding ways to work in dated and current pop culture references is definitely a 30 Rock signature. Those writers were always experts at lampooning the world around them. Sometimes even taking down the insanity of Lifetime movies.




Very low ratings meant this show was never a hit. Well, other than where it matters - at awards shows.

Here's to 30 Rock finding a larger audience now in reruns. It really deserves it! Should Greenzo help rally the cause? He could even work double-time and also be the poster boy for climate change. Both equally important issues. Someone call Leo.

Maybe with more fans we'll be able to convince the gang to come back together for a straight to Yahoo! (they're making TV shows now too, right?) reunion special or a sequel to Hard To Watch: Based On The Book "Stone Cold Bummer" by Manipulate.

Every episode is currently on Netflix and probably other streaming services as well. My recommendation couldn't be any higher for checking out this show for the first time or for the hundredth. All the hijinks listed above happens in just a season and a half of this show! Imagine what the rest of the episodes hold.

Okay guys, shut it down.

Hedwig + Tony

Many years ago I watched a Sundance stunner with a group of people - I should say half watched since crammed in a dorm room with a bunch of chit-chatty folks isn't the best for fully absorbing a movie. Looking back, I had appreciated the lead performance, and loved how the musical numbers and the costumes combined to make something just as dynamic as Moulin Rouge or Rent, but made at a tenth (or less) of the budget.

I couldn't remember much else about the story - Fans of the movie know I was missing a lot.

Then sometime last year a remarkable rumor began swirling around that said film was getting the revival treatment starring Barney Stinson aka Dr. Horrible aka Doogie Howser. With such a cool development, I thought, "I really gotta watch Hedwig and The Angry Inch again".

And so I did, and it has since debuted on Broadway, and last month the revival of Hedwig And The Angry Inch nabbed nine Tony award nominations, including one for Neil Patrick Harris.

Jealousy will be reserved for those able to catch NPH as Hedwig - a remarkable character still electric  in film form 13 years later. I can't even imagine seeing those songs performed live. For awhile I was trying to scheme a way to hitch along with my G-ma when she went to New York for her high school reunion in June. I'd pop down to NYC, see Hedwig, and then she could meet me on The Great White Way to check out Les Miserables for the second time. It would be truly splendid, but highly unlikely.


For those not able to fly to NYC you could still check out the movie, if you haven't already.

Not to be outdone by Mr. "Nothing Suits Me Like A Suit", John Cameron Mitchell, the first Hedwig, is magnetic. He wrote, directed, and stars as the title role, which is all based on the show he originated in an Off-Broadway production.

Mitchell (recognizable to all those Girls fans as Hannah's would be editor) effortlessly moves around as Hedwig, like they are one and the same, belting undeniably catchy tunes. I watched the movie again last month and the spirit rousing, power anthem, "Wig In A Box" has been lodged in my brain ever since.

Hedwig performs across America in various dives (bars, diners, or wherever people gather it seems) and the audience follows along as in between the songs she tells the story of her life. We find out how someone from Germany ends up as an underground performer that even has fans showing up to performances in the USA boasting large paper yellow wigs - a tip of the hat to Hedwig's greatest accessory.  Michael Pitt is part of that equation, so the tale also has that going for it.

From being transgendered to growing up in a communist state, all of Hedwig's stories are told with earnestness. Those heavier topics cause a lot of strife for all the characters, but just like the rest of us watching the movie who find modes of coping, the entire movie is equally told with excellent humor set up as an extended kick ass rock show. Music and laughs, nothing better than that. Many of the sequences left me longing for the good old days of MTV music videos.

The Broadway production may be all the buzz right now, but the stage can not capture a great cultural film moment like Hedwig swigging a Zima on a pile of tires, then cutting to her performing on The Rosie O'Donnell Show. That is the early 2000's in a nutshell.

On the other hand, the newest production with NPH in the lead definitely secures Hedwig as an icon of the stage, that can be adaptable and relatable in any decade. 

Until next time. 

Check out the Tony Awards hosted by Mr. Hugh Jackman on June 8th.

Listing: Meet Me At The Crossroads

[My new wallpaper for everything.]

While the Winter Olympics are dominating NBC, the networks regular scheduled programming is taking to the Net.  Anyone not interested in the cold and snowy (somewhat) conditions of Sochi can keep warm with the Texas spirit brought back to life by a few folks from Dillon.

In a master stroke of genius, Jason Katims decided to spend the Olympics hiatus bringing together two of his critically acclaimed, yet criminally under-watched television masterpieces  - yeah, that's right, the worlds of Parenthood and Friday Night Lights are converging right now.

There is no way to properly explain the amount of happiness that filled my heart when I clicked onto the 18 minute "webisode" and found Landry (aka Lance) jamming with his band Crucifictorious at the Luncheonette recording studio and Amber donning some East Dillon Lions apparel - dreams brought to reality.

People may argue that there are continuity issues - I'm already reading complaints by some who wonder how Amber could possibly be friends with Becky - but hey, let's not take it so seriously!  This is simply an opportunity to create a fun filled inside joke for anyone who loves both of these shows.

Boy, are there many references to savor, specifically, a shout out to The Landing Strip and a certain "local car dealership". Also, Billy Riggins playing football with Max is precious, and let's get serious, Landry would be really good for Amber.

For those out of the loop on these two shows, I've ranted about this many times before, so make these your next TV show obsession faster than you can say Riggins Rigs.

  (Check out Friday Night At The Luncheonette here.) 

All this talk of merging got me thinking about those great crossover episodes from years past. They always seemed to be thrown in during sweeps or when the network was trying to get viewers hooked on some new show. Some from my childhood are marvelous, but it seems like now those types of episodes are reserved for the dramatics of Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice. Oh, what I would have given to somehow find Tracy Jordan hanging out with Walt Jr.

Let's remember the good times, and those classic TV crossover episodes from the days of yore:

The Simpsons Meets The X-Files

"The Springfield Files" episode of The Simpsons may have entirely went over my head back in the day, since I had never seen The X-Files, but that didn't stop it from becoming (and still being) my favorite episode from the long running cartoon.

Now that I have successfully completed getting sucked into all the adventures of Dana Scully and Fox Mulder (best. name.) I can properly fan-girl out about this classic crossover.

The episode finds Homer, after a night at Moe's, traversing the outskirts of Springfield only to have a close encounter with, what he believes, is an alien. Obviously, since they also had their own hit TV show at the time, Scully and Spooky Mulder are called in to investigate.

Sometimes crossover episodes are awkward and forced. For this episode the setting is a cartoon world that has no limits to creativity and wackiness, and that's what makes this pairing absolutely perfect.

Mad About You Meets Friends

Several years before she became part of the six single best friends living the dream in NYC, Lisa Kudrow played a role on another successful NBC show, Mad About You.

Once she got the gig playing Phoebe Buffay, what's the network to do? Of course! Make the characters twin sisters! Kudrow played double duty starring on Friends, as the lovably kooky Phoebe, and still popping back up every so often on Mad About You as Ursula the flighty waitress.

The episodes of Friends where Ursula would pop up to cause Phoebe some sort of grief were always hilarious. Just like when they both dated Sean Penn that one time - he thought he could dump Ursula, start it up with Phoebe, but he could only look at her without his glasses, because she would look fuzzy and he could call her "Blur-sula". Oh the hyjynk!

Phoebe ended up married to Paul Rudd, so it all really worked out for everyone.

Full House Meets Family Matters

If there could only be one cultural icon to represent each decade of television , without a doubt the 50s would be represented by Lucille Ball, the 70s would be Mary Tyler Moore, and the 90s would have to be all about Steve Urkel.

"Did I do that?" Yes, Urkel, you did. The fact that this was a character that rocked the nation in high waisted pants and suspenders makes me elated.

For a time it seemed like you could find Urkel crossing over to just about every TV show, but facing down Uncle Jesse, cardigan to sweater vest, has to be the all time greatest. Well, besides when he turns into the hunky Stefan Urkel. PLEASE tell me Jaleel White has a thousand Emmys for that transformation alone.


I seem to remember an instance where Salem, from Sabrina The Teenage Witch, spent an entire night crossing over to each show on the T.G.I.F. line-up. Didn't this have something to do with Boy Meets World going back in time to WWII?

There was no video proof on the internet to back this assertion up, so it will just have to remain in the illustrious television crossover film vault and, of course, in our memories.

Until next time.

For Your Consideration: Spooky Movie Edition

There is something particularity jarring about a child screaming. The majority of modern horror movies don’t understand that a scare can come from something that simple. 

Thrilling audiences by channeling those old fashioned, more commonplace fears has seen a resurgence in supernatural chillers like the The Conjuring and Paranormal Activity. More often though, horror movies tend to be about outlandish murder and torture. Most notably, "show me the blood!" was the key to the popular Saw and Hostel enterprises, and just this year in The Purge and You're Next.

Let's bring back more of those subtle scares! One way to start would be to check out a movie from 1961, based on Henry James' story, The Turn Of The Screw. It may be missing all the blood and guts we’ve grown accustomed to seeing in our favorite flicks around All Hallows Eve, but sometimes all it takes to send a chill up your spine is an eerie house and the unsettling sounds of a terrified child. In consideration for your new spooky favorite – The Innocents. Beware, after just one viewing, windows at night will become something to avoid.

In fact, the chilling tone is set within the first frame.  For 45 seconds, the screen is black and all that can be heard is the haunting voice of a singing child. Slowly, the blackness fades to the closeup of a panic stricken face, the star of this picture in fact, Deborah Kerr, who is quietly praying. It's a simple movie equation that religion + supernatural  = terror! (See also: The Exorcist) That's right, only a few minutes into a movie and you may already be leveled with fear, but keep watching.

Kerr plays Miss Giddens, a governess, who, after the dark opening, we find as she happily accepts her first position taking care of children in a country estate. These orphans have been left as the charges to a man more interested in remaining a bachelor, so he requests to be left completely alone and entirely hands off their care. Miss Giddens is unaware that the man's carelessness has unknowingly already caused harm.

All is well traveling out in the wide open country, with a towering mansion off in the distance, but not upon closer inspection. Within minutes of Miss Giddens' arrival in the massive garden surrounding the house, a soft voice calling out a girl’s name can be heard, so quietly both Miss Giddens, who looks perplexed, and the viewers wonder if anything was heard at all.

Quite suddenly, a joyous young girl runs up out of nowhere, who ends up having the same name of the voice we just (thought) we heard. There is no time wasted for the supernatural elements to begin. From the first minute on the property, anyone would want to jump in the screen and make Deborah Kerr run in the opposite direction.

Instead she heads into the massive household that is large enough to hold many secrets, but is bewitching to her, as she grew up under meager circumstances, so, she happily bounces through each of the magnificent rooms. Nothing odd to find here...yet.


Everything remains well until several days later, the girl is joined by her brother who has gotten expelled from his boarding school. It is the first of many mysterious circumstances.

Once the two siblings are joined together, odd events begin to torture Miss Giddens; she see's a woman in black hovering across the lake, a shadowy male figure on top of a bell tower, and a woman restlessly pacing the hallways. Unexplainable events happening around every corner definitely turns a normal game of hide and seek into 10 nerve wracking minutes for both Miss Giddens and the audience watching it unfold.

Kerr, who is most well known for The King and I, is far from her character who dances the night away in Siam. She spends the entire time on screen doing the demanding job of balancing the face of a joyful teacher with that of abject terror - she becomes a governess who is scared of the children she is looking after. More emphasis is put on the latter emotion as the history of a past governess and groundskeeper are revealed. These were two people the children cared for with an extra special affinity.

Those children are terrifying enough, but then there is the entire spooky atmosphere enhanced by the director, Jack Clayton. Dramatic camera angles, quick cuts, and intense close-ups on the actors faces makes the already unearthly story feel even more abstract and unreal.

Filmed in black and white, older scary movies are inherently creepy as it is, just in how that type of film makes shadowed corners seem especially dark. With that element already in place, each scene is constructed to get the audience to react with quick cuts to mysterious figures coming out of those shadows and adding terror to a scene with a toy clown in the attic. You know a story has reeled you in when every single instant in a movie, even a toy, makes you want to hide under the covers.

Besides the wonderful performances by the entire cast and all the creative, mind-bending filming techniques, what really makes this flick a  must see, and incredibly memorable, is the ambiguous nature of the story.  The additional assumptions that arise from this ambiguity, which will be different based on each person's interpretation, could be (for some) much more frightening than the obvious fear caused by a haunting.

Halloween is next week, so anyone looking for a new movie  to add to their spook-fest that will deliver more spine chilling moments than a traditional slasher flick,  look no further than The Innocents. Three days later, after seeing it for the first time, and I can still hear the slight scream of a child rattling in my ears.

What's In An Ending

For roughly 10 million folks, this Sunday was met with friendly conversing over snacks about varying death predictions, probably donning some Heisenberg fedoras, and quietly cheering (to not disturb other watchers of course) as the opening credits for the television event of the year started. After five seasons, Breaking Bad is over, and the rampant discussion continues days later.

Hostility in bashing the quality of the final episode has not been seen by these eyes - rather fans are banding together, suffering those pangs of loss, for there will be no more hyjinx with Walt & Jesse, or catching Jr./Flynn at breakfast, and no more blue meth. Done. Finito. Out.

Whether through binge watching for the last month, or riding high on the Bad for years, last Sunday was truly a phenomenon of the ages. Silly seeming to those who don't get attached to the stories streaming off of a screen, but yes, I stick to my guns about the final episode of Breaking Bad being an event. Not a vacation or party, or sporting match witnessed live, just a culmination of fantastic fiction.

Let's not forget this type of hubbub has happened tons of times before. Anyone remember Lost? Many have probably blocked out that epic build up of suspense and eventual let down, so we'll move on quickly and not mention the meaning of the island. On a brighter note, in the age of sitcoms, Seinfeld, Friends, and Everybody Loves Raymond, also had their giant swan songs tuned in by millions of Americans, which I know included most of you out there.

For me, Breaking Bad went out in a blaze of marvelous perfection, yet I'm sure someone could spend days arguing the opposite. (An insane person!) Instead of analyzing the true brilliance of every moment, or discussing the morality of Walt,  let's instead make this a spoiler free zone and skip ahead to a more interesting notion that isn't dissecting the show, but rather a broad idea about endings.

We've all been there, and if you're like me, you feel like a total idiot. "Why am I so upset! It's just the finale of a TV series for god-sakes!" you yell triumphantly to a room whose only other occupant is your cat.

No, being in love with TV doesn't necessarily make you a crazy cat lady (yet) and over the last couple days digesting the final tale of Walter White, I have been thinking more about these erratic emotions we all have for television finales. As I write this, I've decided they make a lot of sense.

Week after week in our modern culture, we come home, kick off our shoes, snuggle on the couch, and allow ourselves to be taken out of our own world, and into that of another. We can balance our own lives against that of the characters we're watching or completely dissolve our stresses away by getting absorbed in the comedy and tragedy of make believe. 

Unlike a movie, which could average around three hours, television shows ask viewers to stick with a story and remain attached to characters for hundreds of hours, over weeks, and for the best shows, years.

Television shows ask that you rush back from a dinner out with friends so not a minute is missed, or finish up homework extra quick that night. You can tune into your favorites alone on your computer, or even better, grouped together with family, friends, and other appreciators in the comfort of our living rooms where weekly traditions are formed. 

Oh, the conversations! Nearly the best part about TV is talking about it each week after the newest episodes have aired. I'm all about binge viewing old shows, or catching up a couple episodes at a time, but there is nothing better than the instant gratification of tuning in for a show when it's on live to both you and the rest of the world, and then striking up bombastic discussions once the closing credits role.

[Thoroughly enjoying this extra special Entertainment Weekly]

There's book clubs, so what's the difference? I happen to enjoy books and TV. Discussions over high quality writing, excellent acting, and vivid direction in television have the same merit. Literature snobs could disagree, but I say any art that makes you think and creates exciting conversation will always be worthwhile.

The simple pleasures of TV can bring together those from different lives with varying opinions. People who may never have anything in common, could crack up together over a Michael Scott, "That's What She Said" joke, or get into a lively discussion over the merit of creating characters with mental disorders, like on Homeland.

Really, with all this dedication to stories that inundate our daily schedule and wedge their way into weekly conversations,  how can we be anything but tragically jarred when it is all just suddenly over?

That is the killer about a television shows last episode and at times has made me feel all gloomy on the inside. No matter how well it is done, that collective enjoyment, that cultural bond, will slowly dissipate. There's always reruns and the appreciation will always be there for a series that stands the test of time. In that sense, I'm not worried about Breaking Bad, but what's gone is the excitement of catching a new episode for the first time -  the shock over a plot twist or perfectly phrased line can only happen once.

We all know there can always be another show. I have experience you know - just a couple years ago I had to pull my heart off of the football field when Friday Night Lights ended.  Now it's happening again, but this time it's taking my heart out of the crystal meth business and the deserts of Albuquerque.  

Breaking Bad had a lot in common with that rag-tag gang from Texas (besides sharing many of the same actors). Both shows could have told more stories, spread thin trying to make the audience happy for 10 seasons, but they decided to go out with all the class and excellence in the world. They demonstrated how the end of a series should be and why it made it extra hard to say goodbye.

When it's good, you don't want it to end, but sometimes you just gotta cut those breaks on the RV turned traveling meth lab.

We'll get through it together! Those tremendously riveting stories created by the Vince Gilligan team will be missed, especially when balanced against less than quality storytelling. At least all of your favorite actors from Breaking Bad will be inundating you in movies and TV for years to come. The possibility of Bryan Cranston playing Lex Luther in that Batman vs Superman business should help anyone move on, but if that comfort doesn't help, just watch this video.

Was Walt always a bad person? Keep the brain flowing with all these deep ponderings, and if you haven't already, spend this weekend catching up on Breaking Bad. True jealousy is reserved for those who still get to see this series with fresh eyes - those who can say this isn't goodbye, but just the beginning.

Weekly Buffet: Tackling Expectations

Often when a movie, book, or album gets two thumbs up, discussed to death, or takes the form of  whatever other type of positive "buzz", it will send people running in the opposite direction. Too much talk can be a killer sentence, especially when hype could end up ruining the experience all together.

Just one example, and I'm really not all that upset, but this definitely is the case with the movie, Meet The Parents. For one solid year everywhere I turned classmates, aunts, family friends, and entertainment critics were exclaiming about the laugh riot that is Ben Stiller and crew. By the time I actually saw it, I couldn't help but think - but it wasn't even that funny!

Having a good sense of humor for comedy at all ends of the spectrum, it is this situation that I openly blame the extreme positivity bandwagon for building up my hopes for the chuckle-fest of the ages.

The question remains; would I have liked this movie had I heard nothing about it?

These type of entertainment let downs have happened to all of us, but too much hype doesn't always mean that it should be avoided at all costs. This week I have run into (surprisingly) enjoying numerous things I have strategically spent years dodging.

Below are some pop culture suggestions that have actively been praised recently, or highly regarded for years, which actually are worth checking out.

Anna Karenina

Tolstoy's sweeping Russian tale of life in the late 1800s is told through the idea of marriages, affairs, and most simply, love, encircling his heroine, Anna.

What turns out to be a story based on simple, riveting themes, Anna Karenina remains one of those classics that will look daunting when seen on a shelf, but without having turned any pages.

First of all, the novel has a lot to live up to. Back in 2007, Time Magazine (based on a culmination of 125 top ten lists from respected authors) even reported it as the greatest book of all time.

Then, clocking in at 800 plus pages, makes it seem like a feat that will be impossible to complete. It could be one classy paper weight.

I may be three weeks in already and barely half way through, but it turns out that every second has been time well spent.  Even with the mass amounts of pages, it is actually quite a quick read - well, in comparison to other much lauded classics, like Wuthering Heights. That novel has a shorter length, but still left me spending double the time trying to comprehend each page.

In Karenina's case, the descriptive prose doesn't get in the way of fully understanding and enjoying the story. There is definitely no flipping back through the previous ten pages to ponder, "what in the heck did I just read?"

Don't be like me and keep avoiding Anna Karenina due to the misconception that it is a hard read. I'm discovering that wonderfully written classic stories can also be quite accessible (see also: Jane Eyre).

Be scared no longer, and settle in for an epic tale this summer.

Top Of The Lake

Director Jane Campion has made a career out of profiling strong women who often find themselves in difficult situations (see: The Piano, Holy Smoke, and Bright Star). She has done it again with Elizabeth Moss, who has filled the heroine shoes this time around in Campion's mini-series, Top Of The Lake.

When you are still remembered as the second woman to be nominated for a Best Directing Oscar, everything that you release will have everyone buzzing around with the highest of expectations.

In the age of Mad Men,  a stylized, thematic miniseries like Top Of The Lake fits right into the mix. Moss has taken a break from being a bad ass in the advertising world to play a detective hunting through the forests of New Zealand for a missing 12-year-old, who just also happens to be pregnant.  Got you hooked yet?

There are definitely some strange characters/suspects floating around this small New Zealand town (including Hunter, as the leader of some sort of ladies self help commune), but stick around through the first episode. This mysterious tale unfolds slowly  and is completely unique.

(Streaming instantly on Netflix.)

The National - Trouble Will Find Me

Several music memories stick out from college - showing up to my dorm and being surprised to find  every room had a Death Cab For Cute poster tacked up and hearing people endlessly rave about The National.

I spent all that time ignoring the praise about the latter, and only in the last year gave in and checked out their entire discography. When it comes to male voices, I tend to prefer the more powerfully emotive tone of Ryan Adams, Seth Avett, Will Sheff, Sam Cooke, or even Win Butler. Often, I find Matt Berringer's vocals to be one note and boring.

That may sound like a major diss, but for me, that isn't enough to hate the band (not like this guy anyway). Based on their ability to continually build gorgeous, haunting melodies, is alone a reason that this group is praiseworthy.

I may never completely click with the mega fan, but it doesn't mean I can't recommend their newest album. Any new comers to the band, tap your toe (or full out seat dance) to the killer rhythm section in, "Don't Swallow The Cap".

How I Met Your Mother

I love Jason Segel. I love Neil Patrick Harris. I love Alyson Hannigan. Even with all that love, I never thought I would actually watch How I Met Your Mother.

Being a show on CBS was the number one curse I always believed fell on HIMYM (the same network as Two and 1/2 Men, ack!)

I've learned a lesson about the lesser known prejudices, that of the cable network variety, over the last year consuming and rolling in laughter with the hilarity in the lives of Marshall & Lily, Ted, Robin, and Barney.

When it feels like sitcoms have become irrelevant, a show decides to put a creative spin on the worn out model. This show is filled with endless pop culture references and hysterically crazy bits (notably, Slap bets and Robin Sparkles), but the most authentic charm comes from the consistent headlining story arc through each season, which has left fans clamoring for years over the identity of this mysterious (or is she?) "mother".

Thanks to Netflix I just finished catching up, and now I know what all those loyal fans, and nearly 10 million weekly viewers, have been enjoying the last eight years. Suit up!

Character Love: Max Gregson

[SOURCE]

When it comes to supportive husbands and fathers featured on television, all hail the beacon of light that is Mr. Max Gregson.

In Max's world, he and his two teenage kids awake every morning not knowing which form of their wife/mother will greet them.

Will June Cleaver-esq Alice be cooking up some hot cakes? Or maybe puberty stricken T will have crashed a car? With any luck, motorcycling, PBR swigging, ladies man, Buck won't have escaped on a rampage through the cities local bars.

On the best day, though, only one person will be there wishing them good morning; the mother they know best, Tara.

In any case, whichever alter personality Tara (the endlessly perfect Toni Collette) takes on, Max (dreamy John Corbett) stands strong and will be there to bring her back home. How can you not adore that? Oh, to count the ways of Max's loveliness.





[Heart. Breaker.]

As much as Collette is the wonderful star of The United States Of Tara, with her astounding transformation between (up to) seven different characters in one episode, Corbett is the base that ties each episode together. Max is the dependable parent and when Tara's world spins out of control he sticks around to man the trenches, as they both search to resolve her problems, which are deeply hidden inside.

Still controversial, three years later, (even after its recent cancellation), The United States of Tara had the guts to craft an emotional/comical show about mental illness, in a time when, for some reason, discussing mental illness is our countries latest "hush-hush" topic.

Ultimately, this little article should be "Show Love", because, as much as I love everything Corbett and the character he plays, all of the above about this Showtime gem is addicting. If you haven't already, give this show a chance!

Even though the series officially finished up several months ago, just this minute, I venture to watch the Series Finale. Season Three has kicked me in the ass emotionally; why must shows say goodbye just as their excellence continues to sky rocket?

We'll say goodbye to The Gregsons and wish them well on this little journey called life, with a guarantee that Max will stick by his gal and continue jaming to some Air Supply.

Watch Of The Week: Frankenstein +...Cher?

It has already been established that I am extremely late to the game on an American cultural icon; The X-Files.

As I continue breezing through the series (just starting season 5), I needed to pause for a minute between episodes to acknowledge something that, just might be, the best thing ever.

Season five of the series gives us all a gift, an episode that still makes me wonder; how could anyone imagine something THAT good?

An homage to the famous novel by Mary Shelley and an old-timey scary movie, complete with the added touch of filming the episode in black and white, "Post Modern Prometheus" follows the agents as they investigate a modern day Dr. Frankenstein-type creation, that is reeking havoc on a small town.

Oh yeah, so what makes this so special, you ask? Well, the monster can often be found creeping into houses and busting out old Cher records. Yes, CHER. I wish I had thought of this.




(I hate...or rather LOATHE Youtube tribute videos...although this one sums up the episode quite well)

Never has "Gypsy, Tramps, and Thieves" been better than accompanied by an alleged monster dancing up a flight of stairs. Of course (and a brilliant touch by the writers), he also has an affinity for the movie Mask, and has a Cher shrine in his barn. Who doesn't love Mask? But seriously, he can really relate.

Since Cher impersonators are a dime a dozen, it was probably easy to fill the part for the "live" Cher performance at the end. Although, I was still crossing my fingers that she would actually make an appearance.

Apparently, the show asked her to play herself, and she declined. Here is a video where Cher declares her remorse on this decision. I would probably smack myself in the face too.




Everything about this episode is perfect, from the visual look, down to every single actor playing the looney town folk.

Although, what is better than actually ending the episode at a Cher concert? Murder, weird births, who cares! It is completely absurd, but it doesn't matter because all we want to see is Mulder and Scully take the monster under their wing to show him all the great things life has to offer; including Cher up close and personal.

Finally being able to see his idol live, this man-made science project really busts a move, as "Cher" croons her cover of "Walking In Memphis". I nearly died when this song started; I lived too much of my life not aware that Cher had covered Marc Cohn.

Die hard X-Files fans, I get you, there is reason for your fandom. What other type of show could possibly have the balls to make something like this?

Watch Of The Week: 21 Jumpstreet

How can the previous post be followed by something other than an entry about Depp? Not only because of the inspiration from his mighty tat, but also apparently I'm keeping the blog as strictly a throwback to the late 80's early 90's this weekend. It's just where the old mind is at this moment.

Here I go again talking about the Instant availabilities through Netflix, but it's really too good not to discuss. Who doesn't have Netflix by now? If you have a computer and love movies/TV, there is no better monthly investment. Whenever you want it's like, BAM! The X-Files. POOF! Harry and The Hendersons. Basically, it's like living with the genie Kazaam.

It takes a little digging through the search options, but it pays off. This week alone, numerous incredible must watch new releases were consumed. Including many destined to be nominated for Oscars. (Check out the sidebar of recently watched movies to know more!)

Also, hanging on the Instant Queue for many months, but thanks to my brother, I was finally pushed into watching 21 Jumpstreet. Boy, I couldn't be any happier.

For as long as there was Ryder, I've adored Depp. So, I have no clue why it took me ages to commit to this campy show. You had me at the introduction. One rocking jam and having a spray paint can spell out the show title? Only one word can possibly capture its essence; Scrumtrulescent.



("Say JUMP!" God this is good)
With a mixture of 80's pure drama and a dash of after school special, the first several episodes already have me feeling a growing addiction.

Oh, and the writing! Instantly quotable, especially where a teen is crying on a stairwell saying something along the lines of, "yeah, if you fail gym you have to miss the Eurthymics concert!" Also a mother reciting, "Come on, anorexia, dinner" to her daughter. Classic.

Even with the campy nature brought on by 20 years suspended in time, the show is dealing with issues about drugs and crime, and I find myself taking it seriously, with laughs in between.

Over the years there have always been stories about Depp wanting to escape the show to become a more serious actor, and not be drooled over by millions of teens as a Teen Bop coverboy. Well, people I think that boy is going to make it someday.

Everybody has to have a start somewhere and what a beginning it was.