The Following Message Has Been Sponsored By Sterling Cooper & Partners

[Don Draper poster - Sweet Christmas gift from the brother.]

When sitting down to watch an episode of Scandal, a certain level of ridiculous drama is expected. Someone getting their throat slashed completely out of the blue? Oh, that's just a regular occurrence in the lives of Olivia Pope and associates. Moments like these are definitely wacky and silly, which also makes for some gasp worthy and/or laughable television.

That surprise death at the hands of a main character (who is a serious wild card) happened on the show recently. Making that scene even better was that the dearly departed woman was played by random guest star Lena Dunham, acting beneath the wiggiest of wigs that has ever been present on primetime television.

Based on all of the above, it is completely understandable why "TGIT" has become a ratings smash every week. After all, according to commercials, Scandal put the "O" in the "Oval Office" (an example of ABC's so bad its good marketing, reminiscent of Revenge's advertised "love rhombus"). Really, it has put the "G" in guilty - guilty pleasure, if you catch my drift.

We've all got those shows that keep us tuning in just for the mere drama of it all. Scandal has become mine. Every week I try to kick it out of my jam packed watching schedule and then somehow I still end up amongst Fitz and the gang, because I can't stand the thought of missing any bonkers moments.

However, a show like Scandal could leave people hankering for more. Something that focuses on a different kind of drama - the real life sorts of dramas that fill all of our lives. The stories of seeking fulfillment, or searching for creative strengths, or even, questioning love, family, and what "it" all means. There is only one show that is delving into all of these thoughts and more - Mad Men - and it's all done stylishly set amongst the hectic time of the 1960s.

In the summer of 2009, Netflix instant streaming had finally become a better service (Remember when you could only stream a certain number of hours each month? Those are the dark ages now!). It offered many  television shows that, being an avid follower of awards shows and critics reviews, I had read about, but didn't have time to watch while I was frantically finishing college. Alas, people still blame me for the Pushing Daisies cancellation.

That summer, being unemployed with more time on my hands than I'd had in my adult life, I started, what people were beginning to call "binging", a couple of these shows. Very soon after starting, I could not get enough of the lives of a serial killer, a coach, and an ad man with a secret past - or Dexter, Friday Night Lights and, of course, Mad Men.

After spending my young adult life predominately watching reality shows, sitcoms, TGIF, and NBC comedies with my friends, being introduced to a show like Mad Men was very eye opening. At the beginning, I didn't know that this was what a TV show could look like or even be about. Up to that point, to me, a TV drama really only meant ER and Lost. 

To be honest, I felt / still feel pretty adult and sophisticated for adoring Mad Men. I was growing up and the television I was watching, apparently, was too.

[Realness in the form of a vintage ad from the Mad Men era.]

The old days were gone, and now that I was getting really into Mad Men, it helped me appreciate the nuance of TV writing. Before watching this show, I knew that The Office and 30 Rock were hysterical, and I spent many a night in college discussing the eventful plot twists on Lost. It was ultimately all surface discussion though and I never really gave much thought about how the episodes were actually written.  

Other shows with large casts face many writing challenges and end up taking crazy plot twists that majorly jump the shark (is that term still overused? Don't matter). The writers of Mad Men have always valued a well told story above anything else, so bring on even more characters, the show will still be solid. It helps that Mad Men never had to change or provide epic deaths (like The Walking Dead) in order to keep a larger audience happy. AMC just let the show be what it was and while it may not be a big money maker, its top notch quality will make it adored for years.

Seeing that Mad Men has been able to deeply delve into many character's lives and deliver quality story progression season after season, I can't help but nitpick if others shows write nonsensical stories. It's difficult to not become annoyed if the writing seems lazy, especially when you know how good things are capable of being.

But it hasn't just been the writing or quality stories that make Mad Men one of the best shows that TV has to offer, it's also about the immense set of characters you love and hate that all live amidst the vast world created by Matthew Weiner . There's Roger Sterling's charisma, Joan's tenaciousness, Peggy's cool ambition, creepy Pete, Ted looking good while flying planes, Sally's style and grace growing up amongst her parents who are lost and confused, Betty carting around a shotgun, and Don, who could knock your socks off just doing a presentation.

Those socks in the newest episodes could be covered by bell-bottoms, since the series has reached the 1970s. Mad Men has always been so immersive in its time period, making sure that all the clothes and sets are impeccably accurate.

Loving this show changed the way I watched television and it definitely had a way of enriching my style over the years. I know I'm not the only one who tunes in for the costumes and set design just as much as for the stories and Jon Hamm.

As the show's 10:00 PM air time is a little late for this early riser, I have yet to watch the new episode that kicked off last night. It's only slightly driving me crazy. Still, since we're on the topic of admiring sets and costumes, and in honor of Mad Men's return, I present just a few props/costumes that I have deeply coveted from the series (so far).

Let's be honest - this is mostly about Peggy and Joan. 

Peggy's Painting

That ever so perfectly has been hanging in her office, because she's a bitchin' boss lady. 

Joan's Necklace

Any fan knows that this pen necklace is the most coveted of all Mad Men accessories.

Put A Pin In It

But that necklace is only one notch above this delightful daisy pin that Elisabeth Moss was rocking in last year's promotional ads.

Peacock Print

The Sterling Cooper & Partner's office has tons of cool swag.

Turtleneckin'

Yes, I'm about to write a sentence that's an ode to a turtleneck. There is a lot of notable fashion throughout the series, but this cute, casual top (can't believe I'm saying that about a turtleneck) stands out because it marks the turn when Peggy is FINALLY allowed to be stylish.

Office Flare

I've spent far too long online pining over vintage sets of chairs that look exactly like these two gems. Let's just say, they are a bit out of my price range.

After the final seven episodes of Mad Men air, a ton about this show will be missed. But we're not saying our goodbyes yet. There are still memorable stories to be told, characters to fawn over, and new dazzling style to admire. Let's soak it all up, because what a world to enjoy.

For all fans, i'll be trying my hand at episode reviews that should be posted every Wednesday.

Let's go Mad. 


Until next time!

Weekly Buffet: Old Friends, New Friends

Just when it seemed like every show you loved was going to end this year with absolutely nothing capable of filling that great entertainment void, the television decided to come back and totally redeem itself. I'm still in my mourning attire over the end of Parks and Rec and Parenthood, and I already know that I will be extending the donning of this metaphorical garb due to the soonish exit of Mad Men, but some recently released shows have been keeping me distracted from those fallen comrades.

In fact, there has been such an array of fantastic new TV debuting recently that it would be impossible to even keep up.

Most exciting of all is that the whole gang is back together! Well, not one particular group from one specific show, per se, but numerous actors that were featured in some beloved hits from television past have resurrected themselves in pretty darn great projects.

Three shows have especially been putting a little extra kick in my step. It's just nice to see some treasured actors back to doing what they do best. In one case, a new show brought fresh life into an old character, where the other two find some very special actors showing off their top-notch comedy tricks in quite original programming.  

The Last Man On Earth

When Will Forte left SNL in 2012, it took a bit for him to find his footing outside of sketch comedy.

Even though he had some memorable acting roles while he was still on SNL (most notably, Paul, the Jenna Maroney impersonator on 30 Rock), it wasn't until 2013 that things really started to flow. He veered off his typical goofy course to co-star in a family oriented drama that had a comedic edge, Nebraska. This was the project that proved he was more than MacGruber. Starring in an Oscar nominated movie will have that effect - the guy can act.

After conquering the film world in a slightly more serious manner, Forte could have easily stuck to the silver screen and not ventured back to television comedy. Thankfully he didn't forget about his roots, because within only three episodes, his show, The Last Man On Earth, is already a must see.

Forte stars as the "man" in the title, Phil Miller, who has determined that he has become the only living human. It is unknown (for now) what caused the death of humanity and while we wait to find out, the writers hilariously play up crazy ways to kill days spent alone.

It turns out that there are quite a lot of DIY activities for anyone left with nothing but time in an unpopulated planet that is still full of endless material goods. Set a bunch of wigs on fire? Sure! Steal the Presidential carpet from the Oval Office? Of course! Crash a bunch of cars together? Yes, please! Fashion a group of friends out of sports equipment, a la Cast Away? Definitely a necessity.

All of this wackiness is also complimented by little moments of sincerity about loneliness and love. Both sides of the character, much like the role he played in Nebraska, make thiscompletely perfect for the delightful Forte. Obviously aware of his own talents, it helps that he actually created the show and is also one of the writers.

If it continues on as strong as the first couple episodes, Forte could have a classic comedy on his hands.

Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt

"Unbreakable!"

Oh, excuse me, I've just had the viral worthy theme song to Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt pulsing through my veins for over a week. 

The show that comes attached to the catchy tune is another gift given to us all by Tina Fey (and, to be fair, Robert Carlock).

Unbreakable follows Kimmy Schmidt as she tries to start a new life in NYC. Kimmy gives off a little bit of that "Mary Tyler Moore throwing her hat up in the sky glow", but she isn't just trying to make it on her own in the big city as a woman - she is doing that PLUS also trying to get over the fact that she lived for 15 years with a cult in an underground bunker believing that the entire outside world had ceased to exist.

Leave it to Fey to take an idea that in different hands would be semi-dark and turn it into a hilarious show with an optimistic main character who makes every life she touches a little more bright.

Besides Fey, there are some other familiar faces involved. Ellie Kemper, an alum from The Office, plays Kimmy. She was always funny and loveable in past roles, but the material from Unbreakable is giving her the opportunity to show off a range of emotions and also how great she is at joke delivery. Can we please also bless Fey for continuing to make TV shows just so Jane Krakowski can play lovably wacko people..

Along with the old faces, there is a new actor that is almost too fantastic and has taken a bit of the spotlight away from the female leads. Titus Burgess, who plays Kimmy's NYC roommate Titus Andromedon (that name alone!), has become the most consistently fun character to watch. He is a glorious singer and, as his character is a struggling actor, this means there are a great deal of musical performances.  Every single one of his story lines has been hilarious, but one stands out more than the rest. There is an episode largely devoted to him and his landlord, played by the legendary Carol Kane, making a music video for his song, "Pinot Noir". That one will get stuck in your head almost more than the theme song.

Even with the involvement of such talented people, after watching the very first episode I was a little iffy on whether Unbreakable was another home run for Fey. Now I've reached the final episode and could smack myself for ever having doubts.

I am loving every minute with that former "Mole Woman" and do not want it to end. Who would want it to when comedy gold is happening every episode - like Jon Hamm once again playing up his unstoppable comic side as another delusional man (with sick karate moves) and Martin Short popping up as a crazed, melting face looking plastic surgeon. Only Tina Fey can make brilliant cameos like this happen on the regular and that's on top of how perfect the regular cast is already.

I don't know about you, but this lady is already excited for season two. 

Better Call Saul

Out of all three of these shows, Better Call Saul had the most riding on its success. Coming off a very successful final season of  Breaking Bad, the audience was bigger than it ever had been and any future related projects would have an audience of millions waiting for it to be released and enjoy/criticize.

Bob Odenkirk's Saul is one of the most memorable roles in TV's modern "Renaissance", so it only made sense for him to have his own show. We never knew much about Saul on Breaking Bad, other than he knew how to get people out of some tough pickles. Still as viewers, there was always something about him that made us all care enough to feel concerned about his survival and want to know more about his past.

Better Call Saul could have gone badly. Trying to follow up a major hit would have been stressful and not everyone can handle the pressure. Vince Gilligan however, has proven that he didn't totally lose his talent once Breaking Bad ended. Of course he would still be able to write witty dialogue and come up with interesting story lines that you never see coming!

Phew! What a relief.

Let's be clear too - this show isn't just good for being a prequel to a terrific series. Better Call Saul is top notch. It is a show that can stand alone in its greatness.

With the build up of excitement before the show was released, I couldn't help but fill my brain with dazzling  thoughts about our old friends Jesse and Walt somehow getting mixed up in the episodes eventually.  Now that I've actually seen Better Call Saul and very much enjoy the titular character on his own (with another blast from the past, Mike, thrown in for good measure), I honestly wouldn't mind if "the one who knocks" never actually...you know...knocks. At least on this show anyway.

People who were scared to get into Breaking Bad because it seemed too dark and depressing, should give the lighter in tone Saul a chance instead. Breaking Bad did have its funny moments too, but there is inherently more comedy in the day to day life of a conniving lawyer than the meth business.

Both shows have their differences, but what they definitely both share is that they're equally addicting.



Just these three shows alone is enough for you to fill your weekly quotient of what people deem as a healthy amount of TV time.

Feel like you're sitting too much? Enjoy some TV time while stretching or lifting weights or walking in place. That's a way to make you feel less guilty, especially when even more shows are being released on Netflix this week (be still my Kyle Chandler loving heart) and Vince Gilligan apparently has another impressive show on his hands over at CBS.

Ah! Cue everybody doing their best Jesse Spano freak out. There's just too much to see!



Keep watching what you love - I'll see you next time.

Sing-Along Saturday

Tom Hanks is delightful. I'm not the first or last person to write that sentence.

Starring in endless amounts of movies that have become entwined in each of our lives, like Big, Forrest Gump, The Green Mile, the Toy Story trilogy, Catch Me If You Can and beyond, has made Hanks an "American Sweetheart". I don't care if that title is always given to women, Hanks can pull off the official sash.

It should be no surprise then to anyone that T. Hanks would show up dancing and lip-synching in a music video.

Wait, what? No, that still came out of nowhere.

When Carly Rae Jepsen released her latest video recently, there was Hanks, mouthing along to the words of her song as he grooved through his morning routine and then moved out into the street signing autographs. This is glorious, with the obvious witty nature amplified because Hanks, a grown man, is speaking the words to a catchy pop song that is being sung by a thirty year old woman. The time honored opposite gender lip-sync will always kill - it's consistently funny!

After being totally enamored by this video from beginning to end, my first thought was how did Jepsen pull it off? How did she land this star? Sure, she's had a couple hits, but this is one of the biggest actors of all time.

According to CNN, Hanks is friends with Jepsen's manager, so their connection at  least makes sense now. How it happened doesn't matter, because what fun! Hanks - more lip-synching please.




Discovering that video yesterday made my afternoon for more reasons than one. With the idea of celebrities who appeared in music videos swirling around in my mind, it sparked a memory of an all time favorite.

Over the years I'll take anything that cues me to watch a really simple and gorgeous video, which stars Robert Downey Jr. doing his best smouldering gaze [**fanning myself**].

The video for Elton John's lovely song, "I Want Love" (circa 2001), is just a camera following around Downey Jr. as he mouths the words and wanders from room to room in a grand empty mansion. It was the first of three Elton John videos to feature prominent figures acting out his music. [Justin Timberlake, Mandy Moore, and Elizabeth Taylor starred in the other two.]

Mr. John/whoever came up with this concept, you genius!  Gird your loins, people.





Until next time.

This One Time, I Thought I Made Up A TV Show

[Fallon, Firth, McBrayer, and Triumph playing Catchphrase - another combination that would seem to have been pulled from one of my fever dream fantasies. Colin Firth's glasses...discuss amongst yourselves...I'll be over here fanning myself.]

As previously reported, prescription pain killers were brought back into my daily routine (once again) for about a week while my body worked miraculously to heal a broken rib.

[Public Service Announcement: Even though it may seem like it, this not for profit, supposed to be "entertainment" focused blog, is not sponsored by the pharmaceutical industry.]

This has been discussed as a regular pattern through my posts over the last couple months, but I'll repeat - I'm one of those  people who probably shouldn't be taking high octane meds. It's pretty clear that they make my mind a tad more "funny" than others.

With all my ailments recently, you'd think I would have gained some sort of upper hand, where my body would have at least adapted to the effects of the pills. But this time around things only got a little more strange.

While on said medication, I seemed to drift back and forth from dreamland to awake-land, all the while the television streamed endless cable in the background - from The View, to the weather channel, to Kathy Lee and Hoda on The Today Show, to Hallmark movies, to HGTV, and beyond.

No show particularly stood out to me, since my attention span was really short, so it was all just playing as some sort of mental distraction in between naps. Where it got confusing was when the world sometimes felt so real and dreamlike at the exact same time.  These blurred lines between reality and "Justine's Land Of Curious Thoughts" ended up causing me, what I thought was, a brief moment of creative genius.

At one point during one of these days spent laying on the couch, I thought I dreamed something very lovely. In this "dream", two of my favorite things were combined together - Kenneth Ellen Parcell and a mainstay from the old Late Night With Conan O'Brien days, Triumph The Insult Comic Dog.

They were appearing on The Today Show and were being interviewed by Al Roker about a new show of theirs that was going to debut on Adult Swim. In the supposed dream state, I felt very excited over this development. A couple hours later though, I was disappointed after convincing myself that whole interview had to have been a dream, because a mad show like that could never possibly exist.

What kind of mind cooks stuff like that up?

I went on in this mindless stupor for a few days longer. There was, however, a lovely surprise when my rib was causing me less pain and the drugs were then able to wear off.

Finally able to sit up long enough to peruse the internet, I discovered that it wasn't a dream after all! The Jack & Triumph Show is real! What a roller coaster of emotions!




First of all, I felt like an idiot thinking I had made up this show. I'm not that creative people. I got over the embarrassment real fast, because this unlikely duo is making me happy for a number of reasons.

I was worried about Jack McBrayer after 30 Rock ended. He is a wonderful deadpan and wacky comedian and yet, Kenneth The Page was such an iconic character that fed off of his real personality, so I wondered if anything would be able to utilize his talents as well again.

Quite frankly, I couldn't care less what he was in, just that he be part of something. The real genius here is that McBrayer's ever present, ten million dollar smile, and continually southern gentlemanly sensibility, is teamed up with one of the crudest puppets the world has ever seen.

After watching a couple episodes of Jack and Triumph I can tell you that it's not the funniest show from beginning to end. It just started though, so let's give it a chance.

The format is interesting and creative. It is divided into part classic sitcom style, with a set, laugh track, and live audience, where the other portions are Triumph and Jack setting out into the real world interjecting themselves on various victims. Any fans of Late Night would remember that as the typical way Triumph would film his bits for Conan.

During one episode they go as their characters to a pop culture themed convention. Triumph, as he would, instantly rags on cast members from Star Trek who are signing autographs. These portions are where the show is a huge winner. Interacting with people and their reactions is where the real comedy of Triumph comes in. What needs work is the "sitcom" part, which they definitely use as a way to mock that type of multi-camera show (think, The Big Bang Theory). Even with the help of sassy June Squibb (could the casting of this BE any better?), these segments just aren't as bold as the "man on the street" elements and definitely don't have a ton of jokes that land with a huge laugh.

I am interested to see how the writing of the show develops, especially with the kind of talented people involved, including writer Robert Smigel (most known for his work on SNL) who is the hand/voice behind Triumph.

There is definitely a lot of interest in participating in the show from the general celebrity community. Paul Rudd shows up in the second episode, and based on the above clip, we at least have a guest appearance by Joey Fatone to look forward to.

Even if the show isn't perfect yet, so far, I've learned a lot from Jack and Triumph being back in my life. Mostly that dreams can come true...especially when they weren't a dream in the first place.


Check out The Jack and Triumph Show Friday's at 11:30 PM on Cartoon Network's Adult Swim. Or, it's probably online somewhere.



Any fans of these people should check out The Tonight Show clip. It's worth it just to see Colin Firth's reaction to Triumph.


Until next time.

SNL Does 40

Last night was the epic television event that honored the history of a pop culture staple - Saturday Night Live. It's important like no other show, because it means something different to every generation. It reinvents itself regularly. And that's what makes it legendary.

As an avid fan since childhood, I was stoked to see all those old pals showing up in the comedy spotlight once again. Trudging around their old stomping grounds and such.  My one complaint - not nearly enough Cheri Oteri.

Like many others, though, I knew I would be pulled away for an hour to catch The Walking Dead.

It's as if NBC knew and decided to punish those that tuned away for an hour and plugged in The Weekend Update segment to air during the 9:00 to 10:00 time slot. There were many fantastic sketches before and after I cut away (Bill Murray singing a love theme from Jaws!), but all the people I REALLY wanted to see popped up in the below clip.

If it's even possible, I present all of my favorite people in a five minute segment: We've got Tina, Amy, Jane Curtin, Edward Norton and Bill Hader as two Stefon's, Emma Stone, Melissa McCarthy, and a land shark.

All I got to say is T.G.F.I  - Thank God For Internet, because at least I could find this clip a terrible, harrowing, agonizing, unmanageable, excruciating... few hours later. 

At first I felt like 40 was an odd year to have a celebration. That's the year when most people have birthday shindigs where everyone eats cake off of "Over The Hill" plates. But when I think of it that way, it's rather a fitting year.

Continually people say SNL is done or has reached its own "Over The Hill" moment. Every reincarnation over the 40 years has faced that criticism, some years more than others, yet that is what makes the show worthwhile. Not every sketch is a hit, but you tune in every week never knowing what kind of comedy is going to show up on the screen. Good or bad, it's always fun.

It could take a week to list all the cast members that were there last night and talk about how many classic sketches made a return (Celebrity Jeopardy!), but the celebration didn't forget to leave out the many hilarious cast members who have sadly passed on  - Gilda Radner, John Belushi, Chris Farley, and Jan Hooks just to name a few. Though not dead, I was also very touched by Mr. and Mrs. Alec Baldwin doing a little tribute to Tracy Morgan. That ball of light was definitely missed on the stage. Even though he is still alive, unlike Jon Lovitz.

Did anyone else watch all three and a half hours? It was like a test run for next week's Oscars.

I was enthusiastically in for the night, minus the hour I spent with Rick and his gang. I tuned in even though I'm having a little tiff with that show right now after last week's episode. I digress.

After finding out I missed that great Weekend Update bit and only caught a couple moments of Maya Rudolph playing Beyonce and sashaying around the stage with Martin Short, I should have let those frustrating guys in the zombie apocalypse wait until the next day and enjoyed a whole night of comedy instead.  Lesson learned.

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.

World Cups-A-Palooza

Where were you during the Women's World Cup in 1999? You know, when this intentional wardrobe malfunction happened. More might recall a little better now after checking out that photo, but it  probably was not as significant of a moment to most. Well, unless you were a 12-year old soccer fanatic like me - that day became one of the first pop culture events that is vividly stuck in my memory.

What an iconic moment! Brandi Chastain was watched in anticipation by my own soccer team gathered in a living room. Just a a bunch of squeeling girls peered on as Chastain, stuck in a shoot out, soared that final goal into the net. We jumped up, cheering for them as if we were right on the field. Women's sports still don't get enough credit, but to me and those girls back then, and definitely to millions of other girls around the world, that moment signified a sense of power and excellence - we never doubted it, but it proved to the rest of the USA that girls could be awesome athletes too.

I played Soccer nearly year round from about age 7 to 8th grade. With the competitiveness of state championships and what not in High School, it all got a little too political for my taste, which lead to me taking orchestra more seriously instead. If only I'd known the stress of success hits the arts just as avidly as the athletes.

It's been awhile, but I always hope one day the part of me that misses organized sports will get back to it. Can you tell that getting absorbed in The World Cup this week has left me pitifully nostalgic?

Over the last couple weeks exciting moments have made for fantastic entertainment. First, the US vs Portugal match was a heartbreaker. Oh that Rinaldo with his perfect faux hawk got us again. Then, just when it looked like we were ruling the world, the US is officially dunzo.

Merely minutes ago, after a full match with a tied 0-0 score and thirty minutes of overtime that had me on my feet yelling, Belgium made for a rigorious competitor and in the end edged us out 2-1. Mr. Goalie, Tim Howard, was diving and sliding like a boss, and officially has my heart.

I know, I know -  too much sports talk for a movie-centric blog? To me all kinds of culture blend together, so in that vein lets celebrate the world's pandemonium over Soccer/Football with a few memorable flicks.



My brother, cousins and I were all kids that played soccer, which lead to certain movies playing on repeat, especially during summertime sleep-outs. 

The Big Green

[My face whenever I was picked to play goalie.]

Kids down on their luck who work together to become the best team around has been a popular movie theme for years. They started as nothings, but guess what, they became something. Everyone fondly remembers owning this in the big VHS plastic case.

The Ladybugs

Guy who is great at soccer dresses as a girl, and wears one hell of a wig to play on a fledgling soccer team - a plot we learn years later also works in reverse... Man I want to watch this right now. It's Jackée!!

Switching Goals

Mary Kate and Ashley, whose made for TV/straight to video canon are what every 90s childhood was made of, did it again when they played sisters, who, from what I recall, really want to switch soccer teams. They just literally switch goals, with hyjinx ensuing!

Really you should stick with the ridiculousness of Getting There and Winning London, but this one really fits the theme.
 



Even as a teen, there were still a few movies coming out that revolved around the pitch.

She's The Man

Soccer and Shakespeare (it is based on Twelfth Night after all), Amanda Bynes in her prime, David Cross, and Channing Tatum in his early work. All good things from this honestly hilarious movie.

Bend It Like Beckham

Being a teen during the height of the British indie's release meant I was obsessed with this tale about two BFF's traversing the trials of life while also being bad-ass soccer players.

Jonathan Rhys Meyers is also there being all attractive as their soccer coach - nobody blamed Keira Knightley and Parminder Nagra for having a somewhat inappropriate crush on that guy.



Generally being a sports movie/Colin Firth fan means that there are also quite a few flicks that I always meant to watch but never have. Looking for a soccer movie that doesn't star an Olsen Twin? Maybe give these a shot, I will too.

Fever Pitch

The Damned United

The Green Street Hooligans

The US might be out, but the world's population will still have a 101 degree football fever for the next couple weeks. Even if you're not usually a soccer fan, try it out. The stakes are so high for the players that the odds of coming across an electric game to watch is a certainty.

Until next time.


P.S. Want to learn about the origin of soccer? Take time to listen to the "Stuff You Should Know" podcast on the topic immediately. It is packed full of interesting facts.

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.

Weekly Buffet: Say, Have There Been Any Awards Shows Lately?

Tis the season for an awards show every weekend, or in the case of this week three - the Golden Globes, the Critics Choice Awards, and the SAG Awards - all happened in less than seven days.

Somehow, caught in a whirlwind of still enjoying the events of the Golden Globes, I didn't even know the SAG Awards were occurring until I caught the last ten minutes on TV yesterday. Earlier in the week I was treated to running across the Critics Choice airing on The CW - a channel I never watch, and each commercial break advertised an alternate universe of television I didn't even know was airing on a regular basis. (Hart Of Dixie didn't get cancelled after its first season a couple years ago? And what is The Orginals?)

Don't they normally stretch these shin-digs out? Basically the same people have spent this entire week getting dressed all fancy, clapping, maybe giving a speech, sleeping, and then repeat. In most cases the same people won their category at each ceremony. It must be a mighty stretch to work that same bunch of people, all while trying to say something new that many days in a row.

All of these other awards have been building to the event movie fans wait all year for - the Academy Award nominations were also announced this week! Most of the expected contenders will be up for that Oscar come March 2nd, but like usual, there were some left off the list.

Between all these big movie business events, there were many moments to discuss. Here are just a few (but mostly everything Emma Thompson):

Tina + Amy

There will never be enough good things to say about this pair. Between the two of them, their comedy delivery is the perfect combination of truth and zaney. How can you not adore them?

Fey and Poehler are able to accomplish zingers without being mean. It always comes from a place of honesty. Yeah, Leonardo DiCaprio does date a ton of supermodels, and yes, George Clooney always has a lady 10 to 20 years his junior on his arm - why not make a joke about it!

The two got to deliver a fair bit of hilarious entertainment throughout the night, but something that can't be said about other awards shows, I wanted more! Less rambly winners and more bits from the hosts I say.

I just want them to be everywhere all the time. Now that 30 Rock has come and gone, (I am continually mourning its loss), at least Amy Poheler can benefit with a rightfully deserved Best Actress win.

More Funny

Innately wacky ladies are my soul sisters, and besides Tina and Amy, Emma Thompson and Jennifer Lawrence have been making this week especially wonderful.

Thompson running, throwing, giving standing ovations, and just bringing her natural sense of whit and whimsy to the Golden Globes added another highly amusing element to the show. I also appreciate, as she is also an award winning screenwriter, that she always makes a point of acknowledging the importance of a well written story.

Word has it she also owned last night's SAG Awards. Sadly Thompson was once again a loser in her category, but from the one moment I saw at the end of the show, she looked to be enjoying her time drinking out of a blue party cup with a bendy straw. That's all that matters.

I wouldn't call Jacqueline Bisset intentionally funny, but her flustered and wacky acceptance speech, which left me frozen with hands clasps to my cheeks (Macaulay Culkin style) will be remembered for years to come. Not quite as priceless as this Golden Globes moment brought to you by Elizabeth Taylor, but close.

Also, let me know if there is anything more delightful than Jennifer Lawrence making that face while creepin' on T. Swift. I would gladly watch that on a loop for all eternity.

Misses

Speaking of Emma, after loving every moment of her uttering hilariously coarse one-liners as the persnickity P.L. Travers, it's a sad day to see her not get an Oscar nomination for a role she so perfectly embodied. Frankly, it is one of the best roles of her entire career.

Apparently the rest of the Academy were on the (wrong) side that found Saving Mr. Banks too sentimental, because the entire movie was snubbed, except for my boy Thomas Newman, who's nominated for Best Score. Being a Disney fan and Mary Poppins enthusiast, I found it impossible to not be enamored by the entire movie that has an unexpected emotional wallop which left streams of tears running down my face.

It must be a tough movie year, if a wonderfully nostalgic film, with a top to bottom terrific cast (including a surprisingly notable Colin Ferrel), gets overlooked by the Oscars.

This could mean Thompson is less likely to show up at The Academy Awards and it could be the end of her reign of bringing the funny. We wouldn't be upset if The Academy invited this already two-time  winner (one for acting, one for screenwriting) to present an award - Ellen might need some help charming the crowd.

For the last twenty years Thompson has always delivered top notch performances, but more recently she is rarely the star of anything and has taken more supporting roles in such films as Love Actually, An Education, Stranger Than Fiction, and in several of the Harry Potter series.

The Oscars haven't come calling since 1996 (!), which made it especially exciting that she was again the star of a movie and getting nominated for a slew of awards. If they allowed 6 nominees, I bet she would have been in there.

I haven't seen enough of the other in contention films to cry out about any more snubs, but get back to me in a month after I crank through as many nominated films as I can.

Hits

Out of the nine contenders for Best Picture I have only seen two - Gravity and Dallas Buyers Club. Both are well deserving of the nominations and eventual wins.

Even though it seems like now Cate Blanchett is a sure thing for Best Actress, I wouldn't count out Bullock. The physically and emotionally demanding job of being on screen for almost every second continues to show that she isn't just a rom-com gal. Bullock can be in any type of movie she wants.

Even if Bullock doesn't win, there is still the possibility of Gravity winning Best Picture, and almost definitely, Best Director. This will be devastating for anyone who was enraptured by the (so I hear) emotional experience of watching 12 Years A Slave, but a blockbuster/mind blowing visual experience like Gravity taking the top prize would delight the masses.

Dallas Buyers Club has almost no way odds of winning Best Picture, but that's all fine and dandy with two male performances that will likely steal the night. The fact that Jordan Catalano could soon have an Oscar is a completely wonderful thought. I had no idea that Jared Leto would be heartbreaking enough to steal nearly every scene they shared away from Matthew McConaughey.

Even still, this is McConaughey's movie. We'd all seen the pictures as he was preparing to play Ron Woodroof - he was down to almost half his usual stature and nearly unrecognizable

No one has had a more diverse filmography in the last couple years, but he had yet to completely transform himself for a part. Other actors like Tam Honks...I mean...Tom Hanks and Christian Bale have done it and ended up with Oscars. Now it's McConaughey's chance, and I couldn't be more thrilled.


Movie fans, we have over a month to catch up on the Best Of 2013 according to The Academy Of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. It's a challenge I'm willing to accept.

Side Note: I got swept up by the films that I forgot about the exciting Golden Globe winners in the TV categories: Bryan Cranston! Breaking Bad! Elisabeth Moss! Robin Wright! Amy Poehler! (I already said that one, but yay again.)

Wrap It Up - 2013 Take One

With 2014 creeping closer and closer, there is nothing enthusiasts of pop culture like to do more than review what happened during all those weeks that brought us to this point.

Like every year, our lives are dominated by the titans of entertainment - what books, movies, TV shows, music, and events made up your year?

To kick things off, here is a random sample of what I was watching, listening to, and adoring the most out of anything else over the last 12 months.

The Year Of Janney 

[The fact this scene exists made my life.]

Pinpointing the exact moment Allison Janney made me crack up for the first time means stepping back into the halls of middle school. It could have been her short scene as an aspiring romance novelist/real life high school principal in 10 Things I Hate About You, but more than likely it was her playing that big haired, trashy broad, with a heart of gold from Drop Dead Gorgeous.

For nearly the last fifteen years it has been a treat whenever her face simply pops up on a screen. Janney's bold presence continually stands out in ensemble casts, like in Juno, Hairspray, The Hours, and The Help, and can spice up ill-fated shows, seen most recently during Matthew Perry's ABC comedy, Mr. Sunshine.

It really has been a Janney year - for me, on the first day of 2013 I finally settled in to discover (and quickly love) her most famous role, Claudia Jean Cregg (aka The Flamingo) on The West Wing, plus she had a few new standout performances to add to her enormous pile.

Anyone who has seen The Way, Way Back can attest that she completely, and brilliantly, stole the first fifteen minutes (and maybe the entire movie), busting onto the screen with one hilarious line after the next.

Janney also gave more life to Showtime's latest, Masters Of Sex. It was well done from the beginning, but when she showed up several episodes in as a befuddled housewife, the show got its most heartbreaking and enthralling storyline, wonderfully acted by Janney, obviously. I'm sure she is completely killing it on her new sitcom, Mom, as well, but I just can't watch those types of comedies anymore - no offense to this American treasure.

Everything is really better with her in it, and that's just the Janney effect. Embrace it, if you haven't already.

Local Girl - Neko Case

This year was momentous on the live performance front when I finally got to see Neko Case do an entire concert. Two years in a row she was faced with her performances cut short due to inclement weather at the Sasquatch Music Festival, which, as an audience member, I sadly understood.

Case's release of her latest album, The Worse Things Get, The Harder I Fight, The Harder I Fight, The More I Love You, meant a tour, and in October this gal gleefully headed to Seattle to check her out at the safeness of an indoor venue.

Some have found her new tracks not as strong as the ones on her previous release, Middle Cyclone, but with the powerful pipes that Case has, I will follow her and those songs anywhere. The entire CD spent many hours on repeat this year, but "Local Girl" is the one stuck in my head on a daily basis - more than likely you will catch me singing the chorus while I bake.

Frozen
 

At age 26, just like when I was 7, my dad decided we needed to go see the latest Disney movie together - some traditions never change, and I hope they never do.

And that's what Frozen embraces, family bonds. In the case of this (yes, I'm already saying it) new Disney classic, it's about sisters, a refreshing spin that delightfully plays with all of our expectations for the typical fairy tale.

There wasn't much convincing needed to get me to the theater, since I was completely sold once I saw a commercial with Olaf, the buck teethed snowman who likes warm hugs. Even being a total sap I never think animated movies are going to win me over as much as they do, but this tale is wonderful and enjoyable from start to finish.

I won't give any more details away, because it's better to be surprised (a plus from the non-revealing trailers for this flick). However, I must say, be prepared to be completely dazzled by the song "Let It Go". Don't listen to it before hand, just get swept up by this Broadway-esque showstopper as it plays out in front of your eyes.



Nashville 

After the December 11th episode of Nashville, how could I NOT include this as an essential part of television in 2013. If you watched it you know how much drama was in just the final ten seconds.

In the past it has been The O.C. or reruns of Beverly Hills 90210, but right now, nothing feeds my need for some sort of soapy ridiculousness more than this gem. Plus, this one comes with musical performances (even if it is countrified).

I've dished in length about this one before (even in my 2012 year end wrap up), so that's all I have to say about that. Watch it or don't, but you probably should check it out.

Gravity

Recently the crew of the international space station had to perform several space walks in order to fix a broken cooling system. As this story was flashing by my eyes on CNN my heart began to pick up a more brisk beat.

After a couple minutes I realized it was because of Gravity. 

Anyone who ran to the theater for this Bullock and Clooney grandiose odyssey might have had the same feeling. Since being confronted and amazed by every second of that movie, I can't help but be panicked for astronauts who are actually circumnavigating the cosmos.

Gravity is essentially a 90 minute space experience unlike any other movie, as far as I'm concerned, that has ever been released. We are right along with the characters calmly observing the picturesque Earth from afar and in the terror filled moments of surviving torpedoing asteroids.

It may have left hearts poundig wondering how/if the characters were going to survive, but it is definitely worth feeling anxious. The somewhat cheesy dialogue at times is its own issue, but all is completely forgotten with the extraordinary imagery of the action packed moments and the rather philosophical undertone feeding the characters need for survival.

Hands down my favorite movie outing of the entire year.

Young and Beautiful - Lana Del Ray

Last year brought all the buzz for Lana Del Ray that made me annoyed. Too much press for anyone make me cringe, and I wanted nothing to do with her. By May 2013 I had to retract all negative opinions previously lamented and admit that I was wrong. 

While her voice is still less than desirable (it sounds highly supported by auto-tuning), that Leo charm must rub off good vibes, because all it took was one scene in The Great Gatsby with Lana's haunting song, "Young and Beautiful", for me to completely change my mind. I got goosebumps.

Her sorrowful, almost longing singing tone combined with the melody and theme is so perfectly suited for this film and it became my most listened to song for the rest of the year. I'm definitely a sucker for songs with big orchestral sections.

Sometimes people can change their minds, and I have in a big way, even becoming interested in several of her other tracks ("Radio" anyone?).

   

About Time

When it comes to unexpected movie surprises for this year, About Time might surpass them all.

Coming from the likes of Richard Curtis, the king of modern romantic movies (of Love Actually, Notting Hill fame), it was clear his latest written/directorial effort would be simply lovely. What I wasn't expecting was to find a real treasure, a movie clearly more people should have seen and enjoyed at cinemas around the world.

Were people thrown off by the time travel business? There's so much more to the story, and as the film progresses you can't help but be wrapped up by it all. Yes, the main character can travel back to a point in time, but how we all use time in our lives each day, and who we choose to spend time with is really where the story hits with creating a movie worth watching. 

It does seem like advertising for a film like this one could never fully capture all of its unique charm, but I heavily assert that you look for it at a theater or as soon as it comes out to rent.

Closer - Tegan and Sara

   

Back in 2004, Tegan and Sara had an alternative rock hit on their hands with the release of "Walking With a Ghost", so I never expected one of the danciest, synth pop songs of the summer to come from this sisterly duo.

That is something to admire about these two - they mix up their sound and go after whatever kind of music they want to make all without sacrificing the quality behind the tunes.

 

My spring and summer were all about this song blasting through car speakers, and cut to me upper-body dancing behind the steering wheel. I know I'm not the only one.

   

 We're just getting started! Check back for more tomorrow.

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.