At least, these are the shows I find worth while enugh to devote inordinate amounts of time to. Is there something else not listed here that I should be watching? Plead your case.
S U N D A Y All the good stuff is on hiatus, such as Sopranos, Six Feet Under, Entourage, and Carnivale. And yes, all of those shows are on HBO. HBO ownz Sunday nights.
M O N D A Y: Take the night off - you're gonna need it. Spend some time with family or friends.
T U E S D A Y WATCH: 8:00 WB: Gilmore Girls. In the words of Herc at AICN, "It's a geek show. It's a chick show." and it's simply some of the best writing and dialogue exchanges on television today. Amy Sherman-Palladino has got it goin' on - to say nothing of Lauren Graham and Alexis Bledel. Yowza. A Hatrack discussion thread for it is already here.
9:00 UPN: Veronica Mars. A smart, hard hitting, intelligent show on UPN with a teenage lead character? Veronica Mars is the daughter of a disgraced private detective in a posh money-talks neighborhood. In school, she's the odd-woman out. She doesn't flash the bling, and she doesn't 'give it out' - in fact, she doesn't even know how she lost her virginity. It happened at a party she didn't even want to go to after she had a coke/rum/roofies spiked drink. She woke up without her pants, and found herself devastated. Plus, about the same time her best friend was murdered, and her sherrif father was disgraced for botching the case. So now, she helps her dad out with her private-eye gigs while trying to maintain dignity in her high school life. Hopefully the fact that it's on UPN won't keep people from finding out the show exists. Should be a real winner.
10:00 F/X: Nip/Tuck: I wrote my thoughts on this show earlier. It's The Good, The Bad, the Ugly, and the Manufactured Beautiful - all wrapped up into a single show. It's harsh - it's explicit. It's a hard show to watch, but also one of the best written, and best performed shows I've seen. Last season got me hooked, this season has me for the duration. My discussion of the show is here, in a thread discussing "Life Lessons From The Immoral".
RECORD/TiVo/DOWNLOAD: 9:00 CBS: Clubhouse: A boy from a single parent home (his father was a compulsive gambler who left when the kid was about 6) achieves his dream, and becomes a batboy for thr world famous New York Empires. Moral conflict comes into play in the first episode when, on his first day, after a misunderstanding which results in him pulled over in a ballplayer's car that's found to contain Steroids, the kid takes the fall for the player, because he doesn't want to damage the game, and to lose the respect of the players for being a snitch. But is this really the right decision? Contains a pretty great supporting cast, including Christopher Lloyd, Dean Cain, and Cherry Jones.
9:00 NBC: Scrubs: Still redefining the half-hour-comedy format. Zach Braff leads a wonderful cast. Check it out!
W E D N E S D A Y Conflict: Two great shows on at 8:00pm.
Smallville, and Lost. The first (on WB) is a new take on Superman's late teenage years as he grows into his powers, and deals with the familial and school relationships a teenager with superpowers (that need to be kept secret) has on his plate. Apart from Tom Wellings's spot on, absolutely perfect portrayal of Clark Kent, the next best things about this show are Michael Rosenbaum's Lex Luthor - the eventual arch villain, now Clark's best friend. Or, more accurately, ex-best friend. In the latest premier, we may have seen Luthor's first real confrontation with Kal-El, possibly the confrontation that will begin the legendary struggle between those two giants. The show is penned by the same guys who had a huge hand in writing SPIDER-MAN 2 - the character development and moral struggles are on the forefront. The supernatural elements are just the playing field - but the Mythology is respected, and fully added upon. It's good TV. Hatrack discussion of the new season is here.
ABC: LOST. It's LORD OF THE FLIES meets THE STAND meets LAND OF THE LOST. And the potential of where it may lead is, well, big. It's from JJ Abrams, who brought us ALIAS. Discussion of this show and its premiere is in this thread.
I'm not gonna tell you which to watch and which to TiVo/Download/Record. Mix it up - but don't miss either.
9:00 NBC: The West Wing. Do I really need to say anything about this show here?
10:00 F/X: Rescue Me. Denis Leary heads up this gritty story of a psychologically damaged NY Firefighter in the post 9/11 world.Irreverent, explicit, poigniant, and funny as hell. See: "Life Lessons From The Immoral".
T H U R S D A Y 8:00 NBC: Joey. Smart and fun followup of FRIENDS' Joey Tribianni, a Spinoff that may actually survive. Plus it's got THE SOPRANOS' Drea deMateo. Any questions?
10:00 NBC: E.R. - Used to be absolutely wonderful. Less so in recent years - but this year is Noah Wyle's last. And It also features Linda Cardellini - the girl all of us who watched FREAKS & GEEKS fell in love with as Lindsay Weir.
F R I D A Y 8:00 CBS: Joan of Arcadia - One of last seasons only surviving Good New Shows That Is Actually As Popular As It Is Good. God talks to Joan, tells her to do things. At the end of last season, Joan was given a reason to believe it's all been hallucinations, and that she's sick. What was once blindly followed, knowing that all would turn out for the good will now probably be fought, a la Nash in the end of A BEautiful Mind - except in this show's reality, the Voices are real. The best 'family show' on television, but intelligent and hard hitting enough for all ages. Things have consequences on this show - good and bad. I talked about the finale and my thoughts on it at length here.
S A T U R D A Y Don't really watch anything here later.
So now - watch what I tell you to watch. Dave will not lead you astray.
...but I am still open to suggestion.
[ July 12, 2005, 08:04 PM: Message edited by: Taalcon ]
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
COPS:)
Posted by Anthro (Member # 6087) on :
What about Monk?
10:00, USA, detective with OCD, and Tony Shalhoub is the awesome.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I've been quite enjoying Tru Calling lately. Not sure if it's showing/already shown in the US though.
Posted by Icarus (Member # 3162) on :
Dang. Some people watch a lot of TV.
Um, Monday Night Football anyone??
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Seventh Heavan on Monday nights!
*runs off so she doesn't have to deffend awful show*
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Awwww, yeah. Another ER fan here! So help me, I love that show. Mr. Opera used to pretend he hated it, but he became noticeably interested when Dr. Green dies. Now he keeps up on the storyline but acts like he doesn't.
space opera
Posted by fiazko (Member # 5812) on :
Alas, for those of us with only three channels, the options are severely limited. NBC will get the most of my time with the Law & Order franchise, Crossing Jordan, and ER, followed by CBS with the CSI's and Joan. Lost is the only reason I can come up with to tune into ABC. How I miss cable.
Posted by Belle (Member # 2314) on :
There's not a single show in that list I can watch (well, maybe some of the new ones I'm not familiar with)
I have a family. And even when my kids are in bed I don't like watching shows with explicit sexual content and foul language.
Posted by fiazko (Member # 5812) on :
Not even Joan?
Posted by Belle (Member # 2314) on :
I consider that a new show I've never seen.
It is new, isn't it? Came out last year?
Posted by blacwolve (Member # 2972) on :
West Wing? I mean, yea, it's a very liberal show but there's nothing objectionable that I've seen.
I just saw an episode of One Tree Hill and I really liked it. i'm not sure, maybe I didn't watch enough Dawson's Creek in high school and it's coming back to haunt me.
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
Smallville doesn't have any explicit sex or language that I've encountered. Violence, yes. But very strong morals are projected throughout the entire show. Some even have considered that one of the show's 'weaknesses'.
And Joan is a PERFECT family show. It's a season old, and is beginning it's new season this Friday! Ceck it out! Perfect time for a New Beginning.
Posted by Ralphie (Member # 1565) on :
You forgot Reno 911. Best show ever.
edit: btw, Belle, what was the point of that? You do know that Dave wasn't REALLY telling you what to watch. You don't have to dissent as a counter-measure to oppose his will.
[ September 23, 2004, 12:45 AM: Message edited by: Ralphie ]
Posted by Amanecer (Member # 4068) on :
ALIAS!!!!!!! Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
Wait, you mean COPS isn't Reno 911?
Damn.
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
ALIAS and MONK are shows I've been meaning to check out for a while. I'll eventually get around to them!
Never seen RENO 911.
7th Heaven I saw the first couple seasons back in the day...totally lost interest after I went off to college, and can't really find a good reason to start watching again.
Posted by Ralphie (Member # 1565) on :
quote: Wait, you mean COPS isn't Reno 911?
If only Reno 911 was on as many channels, as many times a night.
Alas.
Posted by Da_Goat (Member # 5529) on :
I'll second Monk and Reno 911.
I also really like Arrested Development.
Posted by Tristan (Member # 1670) on :
You forgot Dead Like Me. The second season has started out very promising. Even better than the first season. It's on showtime on sunday, I believe.
Posted by Chibi Ouanda (Member # 6870) on :
Of course.. Dave has fantastic taste in entertainment.
Oh yeah, and Chibi's on Hatrack now. Hopefully I'll have the nerve to actually post more than, say, once a week.
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
Hi Chibi!
A yes, Dead Like Me. I don't have Showtime, but have downloaded the first several epsidoes of Season Two. Wonderful show. If it follows last year's pattern, I think the season's about over now, right?
On Arrested Development: I totally missd that last year, and regret it. Once Season 2 starts, I'll be avidly watching it. The Critical praise has been just too good. Plus someone had the balls to put David Cross on broadcast television.
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
My new favorite is Medical Investigations on Friday night. That is about the only night I can watch TV, however, as our schedule is very packed, and TV falls way way down on the priority list.
Farmgirl
Posted by Bokonon (Member # 480) on :
Alias is REQUIRED viewing for TV elitists.
Especially that NOW is the perfect time to catch up! Season 4 comes out in January, while Seasons 1-3 are all on DVD as I type.
Arrested Development is good too.
-Bok
Posted by Belle (Member # 2314) on :
Ralphie, my point was that the recommendations were couched in a manner that they are "good" shows. Good is a matter of opinion, and I find nothing redeemable at all about the crap that HBO shows.
Dave is entitled to his opinion, certainly, but am I not also entitled to express my digust at the content in the shows mentioned?
I will say I wouldn't have responded at all if the thread title was "My favorite TV shows"
But instead it was "Dave Tells you What to Watch"
It annoyed me, so I spoke up. Surely to God I'm not the only person at Hatrack who has ever spoken up about a subject because she/he was annoyed by someone's attitude as portrayed in their post?
What is the point of you trying to bait me?
Posted by Telperion the Silver (Member # 6074) on :
Don't forget "Alias" on ABC!
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
quote:Dave is entitled to his opinion, certainly, but am I not also entitled to express my digust at the content in the shows mentioned?
Absolutely, which is why I followed the tongue-in-cheek title with the caveat, "At least, these are the shows I find worth while enugh to devote inordinate amounts of time to. Is there something else not listed here that I should be watching? Plead your case."
I will say that Joan of Arcadia, Smallville, and Gilmore Girls are shows that I personally think consistently express good values, with very little (if any) 'explicit' content.
I'll admit I come to literature (both written and visual) with different approaches than many do. Surface content doesn't bother me nearly as much as the underlying themes.
People praised the kid-safe "Cheaper by the Dozen" as a wonderful family film. I saw horrific moral ideals portrayed within, and despised the movie with a passion for the message I took from it. But that's another story
Most uses of so called "Harsh Language" don't offend me morally nearly as much they may artistically. I turned off HBO's Deadwood less than 10 minutes into the first episode because of the language. It didn't offend me morally, it just seemed like amateur hour to me, and not worth my time. Since then, I've heard vast critical praise of the show, which has made me consider giving it another chance.
I don't believe all of those shows are for everyone, and there are shows that I would deem of HIGH moral calibre that I would be horrified if people let young people watch - much as letting a 5 year old watch Schindler's List is a BAD IDEA.
If they're not old enough to understand the ideas and concepts behind the images, then all they'll see are the images, and be left with an improper experience of the art.
But I also believe that shows with harsh and would-be-offensive 'surface' elements can contain extremely powerful moral lessons that may be harder to 'punch in' otherwise. Life isn't pretty - and as the post I linked to above explores in detail, I believe one can learn important lessons from seeing characters dealing with immoral decisions and actions - and what better way to nderstand than by seeing it from their perspective?
I don't condemn you for not wanting to watch the shows, Belle - not at all! It may seem like I'm trying to say that "Well, if you're smart enough and in tune, you can get a good message out of anything, and if you can't you're not mature enough."
That's not true at all. And I fully respect your opinions and decisions! I see things redeemable in these shows. You don't. We're different people, and that happens. You're not alone, and I'm not alone.
But that doesn't stop me from continuing to ask the question raised in my caveat - what shows would you recommend, Belle?
[ September 23, 2004, 02:24 PM: Message edited by: Taalcon ]
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Belle, Ralphie isn't baiting you any more than you are baiting Taal.
Posted by Noemon (Member # 1115) on :
Hey, Belle, how are things going for you these days (actual question, as opposed to social nicety)? I agree with kat that I don't think there was any intentional baiting going on in Ralphie's post.
Posted by kaioshin00 (Member # 3740) on :
You're leaving out Conan O'Brien!
Entering the Cone Zone is a must.
Posted by Da_Goat (Member # 5529) on :
Belle, in your first post, I don't know if you were talking about Taal's list or all of the shows mentioned up until your post, but I've heard several people who I consider strict (or even paranoid) parents refer to "Monk" as "clean".
Posted by Tammy (Member # 4119) on :
Couch Potatoes!
Posted by Tristan (Member # 1670) on :
quote:A yes, Dead Like Me. I don't have Showtime, but have downloaded the first several epsidoes of Season Two. Wonderful show. If it follows last year's pattern, I think the season's about over now, right?
Nine episodes out of fifteen have aired so far. Oh, and people that are easily offended by foul language may want to stay away from this show, although I don't think many would condemn the way in which the underlying moral issues are being explored. It helps to have a certain morbid sense of humour to fully appreciate it, though.
[ September 23, 2004, 08:06 PM: Message edited by: Tristan ]
Posted by Ralphie (Member # 1565) on :
quote:What is the point of you trying to bait me?
Look, I really like Taalcon. One of the things I like most about him is his passion for the things he likes and loves. It was clear that he was not trying to force his TiVo schedule off on anyone, but merely sharing a bit of himself with others and trying to be helpful, to boot.
In view of that, your post just seemed kind of unnecessarily self-righteous. Especially considering that you were clearly unfamiliar with a number of the programs he recommended. I would hate for that to affect Taal's enthusiasm in a negative way.
Don't worry, Belle. I have absolutely zero interest in baiting you.
[ September 23, 2004, 09:45 PM: Message edited by: Ralphie ]
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
Ralphie, you really made me smile big. Thanks for that.
And don't worry - my enthusiasm hasn't been dashed one notch. I'm gearin' up to watch the premiere of ER right now, and I will continue to point out entertainment I think others could benefit from or enjoy - especially if it's a lesser known show trying to work its way up the viewership ladder.
Firefly and Wonderfalls have taught me that no matter how good a show is, if the networks think no one is watching, they'll can it.
I may not be able to do a lot, but I'll do all I can to make sure the good stuff gets appreciated by as many people as I think would appreciate it, no matter how long the show lasts.
On that note - mark Tuesday at 9pm on your calendars, and make sure to check out next week's episode of Veronica Mars on UPN. Despite a scheduled cameo guest appearance by Paris Hilton ( ), if the episode is written and performed anywhere near as well as the pilot, I think a lot of you'll really enjoy it.
And as I said before, I don't have any hard feelings towards Belle Posted by Ralphie (Member # 1565) on :
My apologies, Dave. I hope I didn't make your thread all debate-y instead of fun.
I'll bow out. (btw - Law & Order was fab-u-lous last night.)
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
Nothing to apologize for! I appreciate your responses very much. Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
Speaking of Law and Order - I know tons of people who love those crime of the week shows, but they've never really done much for me. The shows I tend to like deal with character development and progression, something these shows (All 20 L&O's and the 30 CSIs, etc) sacrifice in order to cram as much mystery and suspense goodness into a single ep. I'm sure they're wonderful shows - they just don't resonate nearly as much with me.
Posted by Carrie (Member # 394) on :
My TV schedule:
Saturday afternoon through Monday night: Football.
Tuesday through Friday evening: Off.
Fridays at 8:00 pm CST: Star Trek: Enterprise.
I can't stand most TV, really. Sitcoms don't make me laugh (I've only seen two episodes of Friends [Yes, I know it's off the air], one of The Simpsons, one-half of Will & Grace, and none of them did it for me), dramas don't suck me in, the Alias/CSI/24-type shows can't hold my attention, and nothing else is really appealing. Enterprise is more the remnants of an obsession than holding out for quality viewing - though after fixing Hoshi's hair, the show took an upswing... only to be smashed back down when they re-introduced Nazis. Jerks!
I might tune in sometimes for Lost and for that William Shatner-turned-lawyer show. Then again, probably not.
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Taalcon, did you catch the premiere of ER? I'm so happy that show is back on! What did you think of it?
space opera
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
It was...okay. Once Carter leaves the show, though (reportedly this season) I think it should end. It began with his appearance, it should end with his leaving. Plain and simple.
That being said, the only seasons of ER I've seen are the first, and last seasons. The first season was focused and BRILLIANT. The last was all over the place and EVERYTHING was FRAUGHT with PORTENT. (bonus points for people who catch my reference .
Posted by Eruve Nandiriel (Member # 5677) on :
FRIDAY: Stargate SG:1 Stargate Atlantis
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Please don't spoil for ER yet -- it hasn't even shown on this coast, and even so we won't be watching it until tomorrow evening.
For those (like me) who might be interested, the pilot of Veronica Mars is showing again Friday late night/Saturday morning at 12:30 AM, then again Sunday at 5:00 PM (at least it is out here on the L.A. UPN station). On Taal's recommendation, I plan on watching the pilot, despite the fact that I don't really have time to be watching another show. But hey, Alias isn't back until January or something, so I'll consider this an offset to that until I find a different excuse.
--Pop
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
I won't say anything more about ER here - and what I said about Carter didn't have anything to do about tonight's episode.
Looking forward to hearing your assessment of Veronica Mars!
Posted by Fitz (Member # 4803) on :
Man, I thought ER sucked. If it was regular episode, I would have thought it was merely average. As a season premiere, well, I was disappointed.
I agree that the show should end with Carter. He's been there since the beginning, and lately he's the only character with an interesting story arc. I miss the Clooney/Marguilles/Edwards days.
Posted by Da_Goat (Member # 5529) on :
quote:The shows I tend to like deal with character development and progression, something these shows (All 20 L&O's and the 30 CSIs, etc) sacrifice in order to cram as much mystery and suspense goodness into a single ep.
I completely agree. I've caught a few episodes of CSI, and I thought the mysteries were interesting, but they focused too much on the side actors that didn't really matter; that you won't see again after that episode.
Of course, I've thought that about nearly every Star Trek I've seen since TNG.
Posted by Storm Saxon (Member # 3101) on :
I feel so left out. The only show I ever watch any more with any regularity is Dr. Phil.
Would also like to put in a plug for Venture Bros., again. Posted by Pippin (Member # 6042) on :
What no mention of Everwood Posted by Tammy (Member # 4119) on :
<------This potato is hooked on the following shows…
Nip/Tuck Rescue Me Survivor The Apprentice CSI – Vegas Monster House
I was pleasantly surprised this week by Veronica Mars. And of course I’ll be watching every episode of Lost.
My flippers are Oprah, Dr. Phil, Trading Spaces, While You Were Out and Clean Sweep.
I’m such a spud. I guess it’s better than being a Whoppa Head.
Storm do you really only watch Dr. Phil?
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
*bumpy*
Joan of Arcadia's second season premieres at 8pm tonight. Check it out.
Posted by Wendybird (Member # 84) on :
I love Monk and it is clean. I love Alias, it is too intense for kids. I'm hooked on X-Files reruns on TNT. I also watch Dead Zone on USA regularly. The season was much too short however. I catch on occasion Wild Card on Lifetime.
Posted by Da_Goat (Member # 5529) on :
I saw most of the repeat of Veronica Mars tonight. I liked it. The timing on some of the flashbacks seemed a little off, but altogether, I was pretty satisfied.
I plan on watching the next episode. Or, at least, I plan on watching a repeat of the next episode. Posted by raventh1 (Member # 3750) on :
Wow just finished downloading and watching Lost.
Very Intriguing. Thanks for the recommend, without it I wouldn't have seen it.
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
This is why I consider myself a "Geek Missionary". Spreading the love and knowledge of Good Entertainment!
Posted by mr_porteiro_head (Member # 4644) on :
I've never enjoyed ER. Of course, that might, in part, be due to the fact that hospitals creep me out.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Went to watch my recorded Veronica Mars this evening, and somewhere between when I looked at the TV schedule (around when I posted -- Thursday night, I guess) and 12:30 Saturday morning, they switched the time of the show, and played it from 1:30 to 2:30 instead. Thus, I still haven't seen the pilot.
It's on again tomorrow (Sunday) afternoon at (check me here, please) 5:00 PM PST on UPN channel 13, KCOP Los Angeles. At least, it had better be. I'm considering recording from about 2:00 to 8:00, but instead I'll just look at the station to make sure it's playing. Heck, it's possible we could actually watch the show while it's on (though recording is always good, since children have this habit of interrupting, and not always during commercials. By the way, does this show have language I wouldn't want Mooselet hearing? He remembers and repeats words I'd rather he didn't sometimes, so we're trying to be more cautious about what we watch with him in the room.
--Pop
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
I really don't remember much if any. There are definitely intense themes discussed, but I don't remember if there were any individual words. If there were, they were comparatively 'light', and few and scattered.
I've come to the point where unless language is overused, or extremely important to character development, It doesn't really register with me anymore, unless I'm in the room with someone I know would be made uncomfortable with such language. Then each word is like a bullet soaring past my ear.
[ September 26, 2004, 12:23 AM: Message edited by: Taalcon ]
Posted by Vadon (Member # 4561) on :
Am I the only one who likes Everwood? Eh, meh. I like it *holds sheild to fend off others attacks on it.)
[ September 26, 2004, 12:49 AM: Message edited by: Vadon ]
Posted by Da_Goat (Member # 5529) on :
quote:I've never enjoyed ER. Of course, that might, in part, be due to the fact that hospitals creep me out.
That's exactly my problem with it, too.
Pop: It did have a bit of swearing. Nothing worse than "bitch" (also occasionally in Monk, for anybody wondering about that show), though, and I don't recall any that were used in a very explicit way.
'Course, I just looked at my clock and realized you're probably watching it right now. Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
Time to update my list to include Clubhouse. Wow. A new season where the two new shows I've watched have actually been really good. And of course the shows both have to be on at the exact same time.
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
New show tonight at 9pm on ABC: Life as We Know It
Here's the review from Variety. I'll be checking it out:
quote:A sly, sweet look at high school, "Life as We Know It" is so good that you immediately make room on your shelf for the cult-fave DVD because you know this is the kind of show that gets canceled after five episodes. Pity poor Gabe SachsGabe Sachs and Jeff JudahJeff Judah, who also created "Freaks and Geeks," and again offer up a show that's stuck in the wrong timeslot and too smart for the demo the network markets it to.
Earnest, well-spoken teenagers have never met with success from a mass audience. Moreover, "Life" is too racy for the typical ABC audaud but too subtle for those looking for "American Pie""American Pie"-style antics. It will struggle to find an audience against a killer 9 p.m. Thursday lineup, where it faces the "CSI" juggernaut on CBS and NBC's "The Apprentice."
Based on BlightyBlighty writer Melvin Burgess' novel "Doing It," show takes a realistically lewd look at three high school boys. Dino (Sean Faris) is a hockey star lusting after g.f. Jackie (Missy Peregrym), whom he really might actually totally be in love with. Ben (Jon Foster) is under the spell of his hottie teacher (Marguerite Moreau) -- the tritest storyline, but one still played with sufficient warmth and humor. Jonathan (Chris Lowell, in a clever homage to Jason SchwartzmanJason Schwartzman's character in "Rushmore""Rushmore") sees his friendship with Deborah (Kelly Osbourne) taking on a new importance.
Each major character gets a turn in close-up to speak to the camera and explain their actions, a gimmick that would seem cutesy if the writing wasn't so on the mark. Each confessional gives depth to actions that take place later in the show. After Jonathan worries about what his friends would think if he's schmoopy in public with zaftig Deborah, the payoff is sweet when all they do is smile knowingly, with approval.
Sex -- and the almost sex -- is presented realistically, and it's refreshing to see smart teenage girls who have thought through the consequences and proceed without becoming pregnant, or homewreckers, or pregnant homewreckers. (Yes, the WBthe WB, I'm looking at you.)
Actors are above parpar, and even though they play high school students, most actually don't look a day over 20, which is refreshing. Even Kelly Osbourne -- yes, that Kelly Osbourne -- brings tenderness to a character that could otherwise have descended into a cute, chubby alternachick stereotype. Despite an off-and-on British accent, she shows much more potential as an actress than she ever did as a singer.
Posted by vwiggin (Member # 926) on :
I just wanted to thank Taalcon for recommending Veronica Mars. I've only seen two episodes and I'm hooked.
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
Believe you me, it's my pleasure!
Now convince all your friends. Pay it forward, bro!
Posted by vwiggin (Member # 926) on :
Oh, I'll spread the word for purely selfish reasons. I've seen too many good shows canned for lack of network promotion. I don't care if you tape it, TiVo it, or Torrent it, watch Veronica Mars! Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
Alright, I'm beginning to be terrified.
Of the shows I've listed in this thread, the following have since been cancelled:
CARNIVALE, JOAN OF ARCADIA, CLUBHOUSE, DEAD LIKE ME, LIFE AS WE KNOW IT
Six Feet Under is about to begin it's final season, and then it will be over. Same with The Sopranos' coming end.
But I won't spend time bitching. I've already created a Super Long Thread concerning Carnivale.
Now let's dwell on the positive:
Funny enough, the network that seems to have the most balls this season has been UPN - VERONICA MARS came out with flying colors, and was renewed for another season.
The other Frosh skeins that were renewed include Entourage, Lost, and Joey.
And, of course, we still have 24 to look forward to, and Arrested Development it looks like was actually renewed after being on the bubble.
I also have it on very good authority that BATTLESTAR GALACTICA is great television - I've aquired the first season, and will be watching quite soon.
--and now for the news shows that are coming that look intriguing--
CBS: MONDAY, 9:00 "Criminal Minds.” Hourlong, written by somebody named Jeff Davis, focusing on FBI profilers. It stars Mandy Patinkin (“Dead Like Me”), Lola Glaudini (“The Sopranos,” “The Handler”), Thomas Gibson (“Dharma & Greg”), Matthew Gubler (“The Life Aquatic”) and Shemar Moore (“Birds of Prey”).
Alright, to be honest, the only reason I'm interested in this is becasue it stars the amazing Mandy Patinkin. The premise is a snooze for me, but we'll see if Patinkin can sell it to me.
MONDAY, 8:30 "How I Met Your Mother."Sitcom, from writers Carer Bays & Craig Thomas (“Late Show With David Letterman,” “American Dad”), about a man who recounts to his kids the story of their parents’ courtship. It stars Alyson Hannigan (“Buffy the Vampire Slayer”), Neil Patrick Harris (“Doogie Howser, M.D.”), Jason Segal (“Freaks & Geeks”) and Josh Radnor (“The Court”).
Look at the cast! Alyson Hannigan! Neil Patrick Harris! Jason Segal! I am so so so so so there.
One more for CBS, coming MIDSEASON: "The Unit." Hourlong, from writers David Mamet (“State & Main,” “Heist,” “Spartan”) and Shawn Ryan ("The Shield"), about the lives of Delta Force agents. It stars Dennis Haysbert (“24”), Amy Acker (“Angel”), Robert Patrick (“The X-Files”), Scott Foley (“Felicity”), Michael Irby (“Line of Fire”), Regina King (“Miss Congeniality 2”) and Max Martini (“Taken”).
David Mamet and Shawn Ryan? Holy freaking crap. Add in Dennis Haysbert and Robert Patrick, and you better believe I won't miss the pilot.
---
And now, coming even SOONER, as in, NEXT MONTH (June 8! 9pm!)comes a show that has a pedigree that could potentially Rock The World.
Tim "Angel, Wonderfalls, Firefly" Minear's THE INSIDE!
It has Adam "Firefly's Jayne" Baldwin! It has Katie "Wondefalls' Lesbian Sister" Finneran!
Keep watchin'.
Posted by Megan (Member # 5290) on :
Whoa...Joan of Arcadia was cancelled?!
o_O
Excrement!
Posted by Miro (Member # 1178) on :
quote:Originally posted by Taalcon: Alright, I'm beginning to be terrified.
Of the shows I've listed in this thread, the following have since been cancelled:
CARNIVALE, JOAN OF ARCADIA, CLUBHOUSE, DEAD LIKE ME, LIFE AS WE KNOW IT
Joan of Arcadia got cancelled?? Are you serious?!??
Posted by The Pixiest (Member # 1863) on :
You forgot 24 =P
I'm going to miss the 2 hour Quinton Tarantino season finale of CSI because I'll be Sithing out tonight. (gotta record it)
BTW, I belive June 8th, Tim Minear's (Firefly, Wonderfalls, Angel) new series "The Inside" will be starting. He snagged some of the better Buffy writers too (meaning Not Marti Noxin). Should be cool. Sides, it's got Jayne Cobb in it.
Sometimes I watch the Stargate series, but frankly, Atlantis doesn't get me excited and I need to see SG-1 seasons 7&8 in order. Maybe I can borrow them from the same person who loaned me 1-6.
Other than that I watch Survivor and Deadwood. I keep meaning to buy Alias on DVD. I WAS watching Lost till my hubby and I missed two episodes in a row. I have the DVD on pre-order. Hopefully we can tie up the season before season 2 starts. I'd like to get The L Word (I hear it has 24's "Naked Mandy" in it.) and Veronica Mars when it comes out. I also need to see Dead Like Me since it had Wonderfalls creative talent behind it.
quote:In the morning he told reporters that yanking old-skewing series like "Judging Amy" and "Joan of Arcadia" will ensure the network finishes even stronger in the demographic next season.
Replacing "Joan" on Fridays at 8 is "Ghost Whisperer," in which Hewitt plays a woman who can talk to dead people and help them find peace or something like that. One reporter asked Moonves why he thought a show about a 25-year-old who talks to dead people would skew younger than a show about a teenager who talks to God. Moonves responded that dead people skew younger than God. Made sense.
OSC's not going to be happy, either.
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
quote:You forgot 24 =P
No I didn't
quote:BTW, I belive June 8th, Tim Minear's (Firefly, Wonderfalls, Angel) new series "The Inside" will be starting.
I mentioned that quite extensively too
quote:I'd like to get The L Word (I hear it has 24's "Naked Mandy" in it.)
And from what I understand, she's very naked in pretty much every episode. Out of curiosity, I watched the first couple episodes of it when it first began to air. Seemed to be good drama, but it just wasn't my, well, thing.
quote: I also need to see Dead Like Me since it had Wonderfalls creative talent behind it.
Bryan Fuller was the creator, yes. I actually just watched the final episodes of the second season of that today, and am still hoping with fervor that the Fan Campaigns work their magic - it's such a wonderful show, and so much is still left unresolved. *sigh* But, Mandy Patinkin, as noted above, has already signed for a new show. Kuso.
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Mandy Patinkin is amazing. Anyone who can play Quasimodo, sing on Broadway, and deliver the greatest revenge line of all time has proven everything he needs to. He could spend the rest of his life making squirrel jokes on a sitcom and I'd still be impressed.
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
Here's the new list of Shows I think will be worth checking out this coming season. Some are returners, others are new. Some of the 'returners' are shows I haven't personally seen, but have heard enough recommendations to feel that they'll probably be worth at least checking out. ------------------------ SUNDAY 8 p.m. The West Wing (NBC)
[ May 19, 2005, 08:30 PM: Message edited by: Taalcon ]
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
Take a look at the site for REUNION. The premise seems fascinating.
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
So, LOST is moving an hour later. It looks like getting hooked on Veronica Mars would be a bad idea.
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
There's a short (and seemingly truncated) preview for REUNION here: check it out!
By the way - THE INSIDE premiered last Wednesday, and really impressed me. I've said before that I'm not usually a big fan of crime shows, but with Tim Minear heading it up, I trusted him enough to give it a shot - and it was well worth it. Some fascinating characterizations, and the potential for some great storytelling. Definitely not a L&O/CSI clone!
If you missed it, tune in tonight (Wednesday) at 9pm on Fox!
Posted by Lyrhawn (Member # 7039) on :
Are you screwing with me? West Wing was moved to Sunday nights?
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
*bumpy to get people to check out tonight's THE INSIDE*
Posted by kwsni (Member # 1831) on :
Dave, am I halucinating, or is Adam Baldwin in that show?
Ni!
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
I'm still bitter about Life as We Know It. Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
quote:Dave, am I halucinating, or is Adam Baldwin in that show?
If you are referring to THE INSIDE, then it is indeed Adam Baldwin! As well as Katie Finneran, "Sharon" from Wonderfalls! And it's great!
---
Also, after you watch THE INSIDE, head on over to F/X to watch the premier of 30 Days, a new documentary series by the filmmaker behind Supersize Me!
Check out the website here!
Posted by kwsni (Member # 1831) on :
I guess I'll have to watch it then.
Ni!
Posted by Bokonon (Member # 480) on :
Any truth to the rumors that this is Season Last for Alias?
-Bok
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
*bump to get you to turn on FOX now!*
Posted by Lyrhawn (Member # 7039) on :
I like the premise of that new Morgan Spurlock show. A show where you are forced to live a month in someone else's shoes. I thought Supersize Me was way over the top, but it's basic message was still on target.
I think this will be a good way to educate some people on regular problems in the country.
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
Quick update and reminder:
Both THE INSIDE and 30 DAYS are absolutely wonderful, and both are on again tonight, and I exhort all of you to watch!
THE INSIDE is on at 9pm on Fox, 30 DAYS is on 10pm on F/X.
Let's not let another Tim Minear show get cancelled before it gains its audience! Watch! Spread the word!
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
It's the Tim Minear Fox Less Than A Season Trilogy:
Firefly Wonderfalls The Inside
If you'll excuse me, I'll be in mourning.
---
Also, you NEED to be watching the 30 DAYS documentary series on F/X. Some of the best television you will every see, with actual redeeming important SOCIAL VALUE!
Posted by Synesthesia (Member # 4774) on :
Aw darn. That show wasn't so bad... It was only on for a few weeks too. I don't know why they are so quick to yank perfectly good shows while still showing re-runs of Stacked -_-.
Posted by kwsni (Member # 1831) on :
Inside is good. I don't think Adam Baldwin gets nearly enough screen time, but I may just be obsessive.
I don't think I'm going to watch FOX anymore. The entire network is populated by idiots. Even if they're bringing back Family Guy.
Ni!
Posted by The Pixiest (Member # 1863) on :
I hate to say it.. but I wasn't impressed with The Inside. I wanted to like it, but I just didn't.
Maybe Tim and Adam can move on to another project on a network that won't cancel them after 4 episodes. <- Silver lining.
Pix
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
The last episode, written by Jane Espenson, was great. Very great.
"You pulled your gun on a 10 year old?!"
"Who keeps making decaf? Davis?"
Posted by Chris Bridges (Member # 1138) on :
I'm still upset about Dead Like Me. Posted by TheClone (Member # 6141) on :
Dead Like Me and Joan being cancelled is slightly depressing.
Curious that there is no mention of SciFi's Friday night lineup. At least Battlestar Galactica is worth watching.
Curious, though. No mention of any of the lost ripoffs coming to TV. Some of them look good.
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
I actually did just finish watching the first season of Battlestar Gaalctica, and it is HIGHLY worth watching!
RESCUE ME, which is back on F/X now, is also very much worth it.
Posted by plaid (Member # 2393) on :
Wednesday night's 30 Days episode takes place at Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage in northern Missouri. I've never visited there myself, but I've met a couple nice folks from there and heard a lot of good things about them.
30 Days link Posted by Synesthesia (Member # 4774) on :
But, isn't something thrilling and scary supposed to happen in The Inside tomorrow? Shows about serial killers freak me out, but it's interesting.
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
Watch The Inside (which may or may not be it's final aired episode), and then immediately after watch 30 Days!
30 Days may be the most important show currently on television.
Posted by narrativium (Member # 3230) on :
Wednesday night at 9:00 is Mythbusters. There is nothing else.
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
Says someone who has never see The Inside.
Posted by narrativium (Member # 3230) on :
Ok, I have never seen the Inside. I will concede, provisionally, that until I watch it, there is something besides Mythbusters on Wednesday night at 9:00.
Posted by plaid (Member # 2393) on :
*bump*
For anyone who missed the post near the end of page 2, I'll repeat my post:
Tonight's (Wednesday 7/13) 30 Days episode takes place at Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage in northern Missouri. I've never visited there myself, but I've met a couple nice folks from there and heard a lot of good things about them.
30 Days link Posted by Stephan (Member # 7549) on :
Joan has been cancelled for the fall :-(
Thursday nights this fall are going to be tough to choose from. Lost and Alias versus Smallville on WB and Joey on NBC (I can wait for the reruns on that one). Brings up a good question. What happens when there are 3 shows on at the same time.
Posted by Stray (Member # 4056) on :
Wait, LOST is moving to Thursdays?
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
One more bumpy bump - watch what looks to be the final FOX broadcast of Tim Minear's THE INSIDE tonight at 9pm, and then head on over to watch 30 DAYS, the most important show currently airing on television!
Posted by narrativium (Member # 3230) on :
quote:Originally posted by Stephan: Thursday nights this fall are going to be tough to choose from. Lost and Alias versus Smallville on WB and Joey on NBC (I can wait for the reruns on that one). Brings up a good question. What happens when there are 3 shows on at the same time.
I only see one show worth watching in that lineup, not counting Alias because I have not seen it. Since when was Smallville ever good?
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
quote:Since when was Smallville ever good?
I've watched the entire first season, and most of the second - and it's actually pretty excellent.
Oh, and it looks like the Inside isn't a corpse yet! They followed this fantastic episode with a teaser for a new ep to show in two weeks! Yay for Inside!
Posted by plaid (Member # 2393) on :
Did anyone see 30 Days? How was it?
Posted by Taalcon (Member # 839) on :
I saw it, and liked it quite a lot. This was the first time I've seen the show, but I saw it mentioned in this thread and made a point of watching it with my husband, since we're getting interested in that kind of thing. I thought the eco-village was really cool, though I'm not sure I could be happy on a completely vegetarian diet. I would have liked to see more technical detail on how they converted the car to run on biodiesel and vegetable oil, but I guess that might not have been as interesting to the rest of the show's audience. I think I'm going to keep watching this show.
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