Episodes
2x03 Episode 3
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Thursday, 31 May 2012
Wednesday, 30 May 2012
TV
Mad Men
5x09 Dark Shadows
There seem to be an awful lot of dream/fantasy sequences this season. It must mean something.
Pointless
4x26 (11/7/11 edition) [2nd watch]
And this is where I came in. Back to new episodes next, then.
5x09 Dark Shadows
There seem to be an awful lot of dream/fantasy sequences this season. It must mean something.
Pointless
4x26 (11/7/11 edition) [2nd watch]
And this is where I came in. Back to new episodes next, then.
Films
The Scarlet Claw (1944)
[#46 in 100 Films in a Year 2012]
Being the eighth film to star Basil Rathbone as Sherlock Holmes. It's also, quite coincidentally, five months to the day since I watched the last. I'll try not to leave it so long 'til the next one, but then I've been intending that for years.
[#46 in 100 Films in a Year 2012]
Being the eighth film to star Basil Rathbone as Sherlock Holmes. It's also, quite coincidentally, five months to the day since I watched the last. I'll try not to leave it so long 'til the next one, but then I've been intending that for years.
Tuesday, 29 May 2012
TV
Grandma's House
2x06 The day Simon and his family opened the door to acceptance [season finale]
Suitably downbeat ending. I hope there's going to be more, but this year's ratings have been lower than the first and apparently Amstell doesn't want to do another series anyway.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
The Making of the Ring
3 Siegfried (of 4)
Third of four half-hours looking behind the scenes of La Fura dels Baus' production of Wagner's Ring Cycle. And just the making of this time, because I didn't have time for a full opera (Siegfried is a good 4½-5 hours) but really do need to clear some space on my V+ box. (Exciting, I know.)
2x06 The day Simon and his family opened the door to acceptance [season finale]
Suitably downbeat ending. I hope there's going to be more, but this year's ratings have been lower than the first and apparently Amstell doesn't want to do another series anyway.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
The Making of the Ring
3 Siegfried (of 4)
Third of four half-hours looking behind the scenes of La Fura dels Baus' production of Wagner's Ring Cycle. And just the making of this time, because I didn't have time for a full opera (Siegfried is a good 4½-5 hours) but really do need to clear some space on my V+ box. (Exciting, I know.)
Articles
If Paul Chambers’s conviction is allowed to stand, what should we not do in future?
by Schroedinger99 (from Bad Reason)
"the judges can't agree on a verdict. The two High-Court Judges concerned have been thinking about the question I examine in this post for three and a half months and they can't even decide what the law is. This begs the question even more strongly than I beg it in the post below: How on earth are mere mortals, with no legal training, supposed to know how to obey the law on tweeting when it comes to the 2003 Communications Act?"
by Schroedinger99 (from Bad Reason)
"the judges can't agree on a verdict. The two High-Court Judges concerned have been thinking about the question I examine in this post for three and a half months and they can't even decide what the law is. This begs the question even more strongly than I beg it in the post below: How on earth are mere mortals, with no legal training, supposed to know how to obey the law on tweeting when it comes to the 2003 Communications Act?"
Monday, 28 May 2012
TV
How I Met Your Mother
7x14 46 Minutes
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
The Voice UK
1x16 The Semi-Final Results
Well well well, who saw that coming? Apart from anyone who read online speculation, of course, where those two upsets were quite clearly signposted. But hey, it keeps it interesting.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
7x14 46 Minutes
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
The Voice UK
1x16 The Semi-Final Results
Well well well, who saw that coming? Apart from anyone who read online speculation, of course, where those two upsets were quite clearly signposted. But hey, it keeps it interesting.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Articles
Dirk Gently axed by BBC Four, confirms star Stephen Mangan by Morgan Jeffery (from Digital Spy)
and
Scott & Bailey recommissioned, says star Suranne Jones by David Brown (from Radio Times)
Bad and good news on the TV recommissioning front, here.
The High Court is unable to agree on Twitter Joke Trial appeal
by David Allen Green (from New Statesman)
The quest for common sense goes on. Two judges heard the last case and delivered a split verdict, presumably because one saw sense and the other is an idiot. Next time it'll be three, so fingers crossed enough of them are of the (apparently rare among the judiciary) intelligent variety.
There's also a more personal comment from Green (who is Paul Chambers' solicitor) here.
The Voice creator John de Mol: we need to make the live shows "more exciting"
by Jack Seale (from Radio Times)
Well, it's good they realise it, and they have some definite, sensible ideas for going forward.
and
Scott & Bailey recommissioned, says star Suranne Jones by David Brown (from Radio Times)
Bad and good news on the TV recommissioning front, here.
The High Court is unable to agree on Twitter Joke Trial appeal
by David Allen Green (from New Statesman)
The quest for common sense goes on. Two judges heard the last case and delivered a split verdict, presumably because one saw sense and the other is an idiot. Next time it'll be three, so fingers crossed enough of them are of the (apparently rare among the judiciary) intelligent variety.
There's also a more personal comment from Green (who is Paul Chambers' solicitor) here.
The Voice creator John de Mol: we need to make the live shows "more exciting"
by Jack Seale (from Radio Times)
Well, it's good they realise it, and they have some definite, sensible ideas for going forward.
Sunday, 27 May 2012
TV
The British Academy Television Awards 2012
Rather uncomfortably ceremony this year, I thought. Lots of awkward bits from the awards presenters. Dara did a good job though.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
MythBusters
9x02 Blue Ice
9x04 Carbonated Chaos
Getting close to a year since I last stumbled across some MythBusters on late-night TV, I did the same again. The first of this double bill was very interesting; the second looked kinda cool, hence why I stuck with it, but neither myth was particularly worth bothering with.
Rather uncomfortably ceremony this year, I thought. Lots of awkward bits from the awards presenters. Dara did a good job though.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
MythBusters
9x02 Blue Ice
9x04 Carbonated Chaos
Getting close to a year since I last stumbled across some MythBusters on late-night TV, I did the same again. The first of this double bill was very interesting; the second looked kinda cool, hence why I stuck with it, but neither myth was particularly worth bothering with.
Comics
All Star Western #8 by Justin Gray, Jimmy Palmiotti & Moritat
Unlike Aquaman (below), Gray and Palmiotti consistently pack lead strip Jonah Hex full with action and plot. The story's titular villainous organisation, The August 7, seem to make for a formidable enemy -- I hope they're not too easily defeated too quickly.
Also includes the second part of a Patrick Scherberger-pencilled back-up strip starring Western superheroes Nighthawk and Cinnamon. After the first dealt with the backstory of the former, the second deals with the backstory of the latter. Solid stuff.
Next issue is a Night of the Owls tie-in, so I'll be interested to see if either of the current storylines take a pause for that, or if one is somehow connected to it (if either, I presume it'd be the Hex one), or if they boldly pack three strips into a single issue.
Aquaman #8 by Geoff Johns & Ivan Reis
Meh. Good moments here, but there's so much decompression (there's a couple of unnecessary splash pages, and it's awash with low-panel-count pages and wasted panels) that it borders on frustrating. I criticised it for this last issue too, but it feels even worse here because the story isn't yet as engrossing as the opener. Disappointing.
Unlike Aquaman (below), Gray and Palmiotti consistently pack lead strip Jonah Hex full with action and plot. The story's titular villainous organisation, The August 7, seem to make for a formidable enemy -- I hope they're not too easily defeated too quickly.
Also includes the second part of a Patrick Scherberger-pencilled back-up strip starring Western superheroes Nighthawk and Cinnamon. After the first dealt with the backstory of the former, the second deals with the backstory of the latter. Solid stuff.
Next issue is a Night of the Owls tie-in, so I'll be interested to see if either of the current storylines take a pause for that, or if one is somehow connected to it (if either, I presume it'd be the Hex one), or if they boldly pack three strips into a single issue.
Aquaman #8 by Geoff Johns & Ivan Reis
Meh. Good moments here, but there's so much decompression (there's a couple of unnecessary splash pages, and it's awash with low-panel-count pages and wasted panels) that it borders on frustrating. I criticised it for this last issue too, but it feels even worse here because the story isn't yet as engrossing as the opener. Disappointing.
this week on 100 Films
Just one new review was posted to 100 Films in a Year this week, and it was...
Legion (2010)
This past week also saw the UK TV premiere of Bruce Willis sci-fi movie Surrogates, so I posted my old review to my new blog. You can read it here. If you missed it, don't worry, it's pretty rubbish.
More next Sunday.
Legion (2010)
It’s penned by writers who think speechmaking equates to character. All of the dialogue is appalling; even Big Lines — just before an heroic death, that kind of thing — are irredeemably bad. It’s performed by actors who aren’t even capable of delivering that tosh. They all overact in one way or another, especially a gurning turn from Dennis Quaid. Later on it aims for some kind of epic fantasy stuff, but it manages to be both underdeveloped and overplayed.Read more on my new blog or my classic blog.
This past week also saw the UK TV premiere of Bruce Willis sci-fi movie Surrogates, so I posted my old review to my new blog. You can read it here. If you missed it, don't worry, it's pretty rubbish.
More next Sunday.
Saturday, 26 May 2012
TV
Archer
3x12 Space Race Part 1
Unexpected-cliffhanger-tastic! (It would've been less unexpected if I'd looked this up and seen "Part 1" before watching.) But I'm glad because this is a fun story. Shame next week's is the last of the season.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Eurovision Song Contest: Baku 2012
Shame Engelbert did so badly, but I think people must've been after upbeat songs this year. Plus going first was never going to do him any favours. The success of the Serbian entry completely mystifies me though.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Have I Got News For You
43x06 (18/5/12 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch the extended version (again) on iPlayer.]
The Voice UK
1x15 The Semi-Final
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
3x12 Space Race Part 1
Unexpected-cliffhanger-tastic! (It would've been less unexpected if I'd looked this up and seen "Part 1" before watching.) But I'm glad because this is a fun story. Shame next week's is the last of the season.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Eurovision Song Contest: Baku 2012
Shame Engelbert did so badly, but I think people must've been after upbeat songs this year. Plus going first was never going to do him any favours. The success of the Serbian entry completely mystifies me though.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Have I Got News For You
43x06 (18/5/12 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch the extended version (again) on iPlayer.]
The Voice UK
1x15 The Semi-Final
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Friday, 25 May 2012
TV
Castle
2x13 Sucker Punch
That was... more significant than I was expecting.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Episodes
2x02 Episode 2
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
House
8x21a Swan Song
8x22 Everybody Dies [series finale]
And that's it, the end of House! Weird feeling after eight years, and a final season that didn't always feel like it was actually the end (scrapping a major character, introducing two new ones and performing some serious re-organsing at the start of the season didn't help). It was kind of an odd finale, but then House finales often are. I suppose it ultimately worked. Swan Song was a nicely different behind-the-scenes/recap/tribute-thing too.
Maestro at the Opera
Episode 3 (of 3)
The Voice UK
1x14 Results Show 4
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Would I Lie To You?
6x07 Episode 7
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
2x13 Sucker Punch
That was... more significant than I was expecting.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Episodes
2x02 Episode 2
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
House
8x21a Swan Song
8x22 Everybody Dies [series finale]
And that's it, the end of House! Weird feeling after eight years, and a final season that didn't always feel like it was actually the end (scrapping a major character, introducing two new ones and performing some serious re-organsing at the start of the season didn't help). It was kind of an odd finale, but then House finales often are. I suppose it ultimately worked. Swan Song was a nicely different behind-the-scenes/recap/tribute-thing too.
Maestro at the Opera
Episode 3 (of 3)
The Voice UK
1x14 Results Show 4
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Would I Lie To You?
6x07 Episode 7
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
Number of titles in collection: 1,481 [up 2]
Of which DVDs: 1,154 [up 1]
Of which Blu-rays: 327 [up 1]
Number of discs in collection: 3,683 [up 5]
Number of films in collection: 1,567 [up 1]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 5,489 [up 10]
See you next week, faithful reader.
Number of titles in collection: 1,481 [up 2]
Of which DVDs: 1,154 [up 1]
Of which Blu-rays: 327 [up 1]
Number of discs in collection: 3,683 [up 5]
Number of films in collection: 1,567 [up 1]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 5,489 [up 10]
See you next week, faithful reader.
Thursday, 24 May 2012
TV
How I Met Your Mother
7x13 Tailgate
It's back! At last! Hurrah! (It paused way back in January.) OK, I could've been downloading it from the US, and that would've removed the weirdness of watching a snow-caked New Years episode on a baking hot May day, but meh, it's easier this way.
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Not Going Out
5x06 Drunk [season finale]
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
7x13 Tailgate
It's back! At last! Hurrah! (It paused way back in January.) OK, I could've been downloading it from the US, and that would've removed the weirdness of watching a snow-caked New Years episode on a baking hot May day, but meh, it's easier this way.
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Not Going Out
5x06 Drunk [season finale]
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Articles
Dark Knight Animated Movie Sets Voice Cast
by Borys Kit (from Heat Vision at The Hollywood Reporter)
DC finally announce the voice cast for their forthcoming two-part animated adaptation of Frank Miller's seminal graphic novel The Dark Knight Returns. More exciting is the article comes with eight shots from the film itself, which confirm the style is what one would probably expect it to be: based on the original book, but with the kind of stylistic simplisation and blockier colours animation almost always brings. Looks like it could be good though.
RED 2 Teaser Poster Arrives
by Kevin Melrose (from Spinoff Online)
I enjoyed RED, so I'm certainly looking forward to this one.
by Borys Kit (from Heat Vision at The Hollywood Reporter)
DC finally announce the voice cast for their forthcoming two-part animated adaptation of Frank Miller's seminal graphic novel The Dark Knight Returns. More exciting is the article comes with eight shots from the film itself, which confirm the style is what one would probably expect it to be: based on the original book, but with the kind of stylistic simplisation and blockier colours animation almost always brings. Looks like it could be good though.
RED 2 Teaser Poster Arrives
by Kevin Melrose (from Spinoff Online)
I enjoyed RED, so I'm certainly looking forward to this one.
Wednesday, 23 May 2012
Articles
Interview: Alex Garland
Part One and Part Two
(from Edge)
Novelist and screenwriter Alex Garland talks about his experiences writing a video game and more broadly about the state and future of storytelling in gaming. Most of the latter is in the second part, and for me that was the most interesting stuff in the interview.
Read Every Line of Dialogue Rihanna Says in Battleship
by Sarah Lawson (from Vulture)
Clearly Rihanna's character is a deep and complex one. Who, um, doesn't say anything much.
Part One and Part Two
(from Edge)
Novelist and screenwriter Alex Garland talks about his experiences writing a video game and more broadly about the state and future of storytelling in gaming. Most of the latter is in the second part, and for me that was the most interesting stuff in the interview.
Read Every Line of Dialogue Rihanna Says in Battleship
by Sarah Lawson (from Vulture)
Clearly Rihanna's character is a deep and complex one. Who, um, doesn't say anything much.
Tuesday, 22 May 2012
Articles
Final List Of Special Features And Two Trailers For The Upcoming Bond 50 Box Set
by Brendon Connelly (from Bleeding Cool)
Disappointingly, it's unsurprisingly disappointing: most of the films look good, and there's a 23rd disc of new features, but Casino Royale isn't the special edition that was released around the time of Quantum of Solace, and they haven't produced the long-promised QoS special edition (for which some extras were completed before even the first DVD/BD release, the cheeky sods).
I'll probably still get this, but now without a rush; but I'll 'have to' keep my Casino Royale SE and keep my fingers crossed for the QoS SE. Bastards.
Game of Thrones: a show that breaks the golden rules of television
by Robert Colvile (from the Telegraph)
Naturally the web is flooded with articles on Game of Thrones (the sheer volume of reviews (or, as Americans apparently like to call them, "recaps") after each episode is daunting even if you're not reading them), but this brief piece has a couple of interesting thoughts, not so much on why it's good (you'll likely have heard those) but on how it's adapting the books.
Be warned, if you've still not started watching it (what?! fool!), this spoils the end of season one.
by Brendon Connelly (from Bleeding Cool)
Disappointingly, it's unsurprisingly disappointing: most of the films look good, and there's a 23rd disc of new features, but Casino Royale isn't the special edition that was released around the time of Quantum of Solace, and they haven't produced the long-promised QoS special edition (for which some extras were completed before even the first DVD/BD release, the cheeky sods).
I'll probably still get this, but now without a rush; but I'll 'have to' keep my Casino Royale SE and keep my fingers crossed for the QoS SE. Bastards.
Game of Thrones: a show that breaks the golden rules of television
by Robert Colvile (from the Telegraph)
Naturally the web is flooded with articles on Game of Thrones (the sheer volume of reviews (or, as Americans apparently like to call them, "recaps") after each episode is daunting even if you're not reading them), but this brief piece has a couple of interesting thoughts, not so much on why it's good (you'll likely have heard those) but on how it's adapting the books.
Be warned, if you've still not started watching it (what?! fool!), this spoils the end of season one.
Monday, 21 May 2012
Articles
Mark Millar interview: Kick-Ass creator on the movie sequel
by Mark Langshaw (from Digital Spy)
The writer/co-creator of the Kick-Ass comic has a chat about the sequel to the film, which is due to start shooting in a couple of months. Be warned, he also chats about Kick-Ass 3 (the comic thereof), and in doing so spoils some events from Kick-Ass 2 (as in the comic, but probably therefore the film too).
by Mark Langshaw (from Digital Spy)
The writer/co-creator of the Kick-Ass comic has a chat about the sequel to the film, which is due to start shooting in a couple of months. Be warned, he also chats about Kick-Ass 3 (the comic thereof), and in doing so spoils some events from Kick-Ass 2 (as in the comic, but probably therefore the film too).
Sunday, 20 May 2012
this week on 100 Films
Two new reviews were posted to 100 Films in a Year this week, and they were...
Rush Hour 3 (2007)
Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011)
More next Sunday.
Rush Hour 3 (2007)
The fights aren’t amongst Chan’s best action sequences, but they’re still quite entertaining. I love sword fights and I love Chan’s acrobatic choreography, so a climax combining the two — plus some sparing atop the Eiffel Tower (or, I presume, a surprisingly good set thereof) — is occasionally spectacular and single-handedly almost justifies the entire film’s existence.Read more on my new blog or my classic blog.
Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011)
a fun ride with stand-out moments, but not as a particularly exceptional version of Sherlock Holmes. It’s very enjoyable as a comedy-action movie with amusing characters and entertainingly-staged action sequences, but while my affection for the first has grown to make it one of my favourite movies, this is just an entertaining follow-up.Read more on my new blog or my classic blog.
More next Sunday.
Saturday, 19 May 2012
TV
Archer
3x11 Skin Game
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
The Mentalist
4x24 The Crimson Hat [season finale]
Another great Mentalist season finale, though I can see why some people have got fed up with all the variations on almost-got-Red-John-but-not-quite they've done now.
[Watch it on Demand 5 from Friday 1st June.]
Once Upon a Time
1x07 The Heart is a Lonely Hunter
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Playhouse Presents
1x02 Nellie and Melba
After not at all liking the first one of these, I've been slightly loathe to watch any more. But it's an anthology series and they're all different, so it's a shame they started with such a pretentious one that could lock out potential viewers. This is a lot more fun, but still with depth. Good good.
The Voice UK
1x13 Live Show 4
They could've had grumpy little Aleks Josh mime along to a Jack Johnson CD and it would've sounded the same. I hope an unthinking teeny fanbase don't guarantee him a place in the semi-final.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Would I Lie To You?
6x06 Episode 6
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
3x11 Skin Game
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
The Mentalist
4x24 The Crimson Hat [season finale]
Another great Mentalist season finale, though I can see why some people have got fed up with all the variations on almost-got-Red-John-but-not-quite they've done now.
[Watch it on Demand 5 from Friday 1st June.]
Once Upon a Time
1x07 The Heart is a Lonely Hunter
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Playhouse Presents
1x02 Nellie and Melba
After not at all liking the first one of these, I've been slightly loathe to watch any more. But it's an anthology series and they're all different, so it's a shame they started with such a pretentious one that could lock out potential viewers. This is a lot more fun, but still with depth. Good good.
The Voice UK
1x13 Live Show 4
They could've had grumpy little Aleks Josh mime along to a Jack Johnson CD and it would've sounded the same. I hope an unthinking teeny fanbase don't guarantee him a place in the semi-final.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Would I Lie To You?
6x06 Episode 6
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Films
Team America: World Police (2004)
[last act; 3rd watch]
Everything from I'm So Ronery on -- I happened to turn on Channel 4 perfectly in time for that bit and couldn't stop watching. Not seen the whole thing for years; ought to watch it all again.
[last act; 3rd watch]
Everything from I'm So Ronery on -- I happened to turn on Channel 4 perfectly in time for that bit and couldn't stop watching. Not seen the whole thing for years; ought to watch it all again.
Comics
Resurrection Man #8 by Dan Abnett, Andy Lanning & Fernando Dagnino
Apparently this is a low seller and so potentially on the cusp of cancellation. I hope not -- it's a great concept and they've been telling good stories, I think. Plus it would be annoying if it cut off before the end of the bigger tale they're telling.
Apparently this is a low seller and so potentially on the cusp of cancellation. I hope not -- it's a great concept and they've been telling good stories, I think. Plus it would be annoying if it cut off before the end of the bigger tale they're telling.
Articles
The Traditionalist
by Jeffrey Ressner (from DGA Quarterly: Spring 2012)
If you're interested in filmmaking, the behind-the-scenes-y-ness of it and the process of it and so on, then this is an absolutely excellent -- nay, essential -- interview with Christopher Nolan.
by Jeffrey Ressner (from DGA Quarterly: Spring 2012)
If you're interested in filmmaking, the behind-the-scenes-y-ness of it and the process of it and so on, then this is an absolutely excellent -- nay, essential -- interview with Christopher Nolan.
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
I didn't think I'd bought that much recently... until I noticed all the titles I hadn't yet entered running times for on my Big List. (Because it's that time again.) Still, the increase is only on a par with my regular jumps going back a few months, so it's not too bad.
Number of titles in collection: 1,479 [up 3]
Of which DVDs: 1,153 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 326 [up 3]
Number of discs in collection: 3,678 [up 4]
Number of films in collection: 1,566 [up 3]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 5,479 [no change]
And as I said, this week it's time for a running time update...
Total running time of collection (approx.):
263 days, 5 hours, and 38 minutes.
(Up 1 day, 6 hours, and 33 minutes from last month.)
See you next week, faithful reader.
I didn't think I'd bought that much recently... until I noticed all the titles I hadn't yet entered running times for on my Big List. (Because it's that time again.) Still, the increase is only on a par with my regular jumps going back a few months, so it's not too bad.
Number of titles in collection: 1,479 [up 3]
Of which DVDs: 1,153 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 326 [up 3]
Number of discs in collection: 3,678 [up 4]
Number of films in collection: 1,566 [up 3]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 5,479 [no change]
And as I said, this week it's time for a running time update...
Total running time of collection (approx.):
263 days, 5 hours, and 38 minutes.
(Up 1 day, 6 hours, and 33 minutes from last month.)
See you next week, faithful reader.
Friday, 18 May 2012
TV
Grandma's House
2x05 The day Simon found himself back on the path to fulfilment and joy
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Horrible Histories
4x08 Episode 8
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Maestro at the Opera
Episode 2 (of 3)
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
The Matt Lucas Awards
1x06 Episode 6
From what I've heard this series hasn't gone down especially well, so I'm not sure we'll be seeing any more. It certainly wasn't perfect but it did have enjoyable moments. And I must remember I've still got episode 3 to watch. (There's a seventh episode too, but it's just highlights.)
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
The Mentalist
4x23 Red Rover, Red Rover
[Watch it on Demand 5 from Friday 25th May.]
2x05 The day Simon found himself back on the path to fulfilment and joy
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Horrible Histories
4x08 Episode 8
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Maestro at the Opera
Episode 2 (of 3)
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
The Matt Lucas Awards
1x06 Episode 6
From what I've heard this series hasn't gone down especially well, so I'm not sure we'll be seeing any more. It certainly wasn't perfect but it did have enjoyable moments. And I must remember I've still got episode 3 to watch. (There's a seventh episode too, but it's just highlights.)
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
The Mentalist
4x23 Red Rover, Red Rover
[Watch it on Demand 5 from Friday 25th May.]
Comics
Batman: The Dark Knight #8 by Joe Harris & Ed Benes
Hurrah, Finch and Jenkins are gone! Their story appears to live on though, based on the cover (one of the characters on it doesn't even appear), so I feel sorry for a new writer lumbered with that. It has OK points; maybe a good person will rescue it.
As for this one-and-done (presumably to fit with including Night of the Owls next issue, then getting on with its own stuff after that)... it was solid. Lots of blood and violence for a T-rated book. I imagine they don't actually pay much attention to those ratings...
Hurrah, Finch and Jenkins are gone! Their story appears to live on though, based on the cover (one of the characters on it doesn't even appear), so I feel sorry for a new writer lumbered with that. It has OK points; maybe a good person will rescue it.
As for this one-and-done (presumably to fit with including Night of the Owls next issue, then getting on with its own stuff after that)... it was solid. Lots of blood and violence for a T-rated book. I imagine they don't actually pay much attention to those ratings...
Articles
The Before Watchmen Reviews Are In. From Some People.
by Rich Johnston (from Bleeding Cool)
A few sites have been allowed an advance look at a chunk of Before Watchmen and here Johnston rounds up their (100% spoiler-free) verdicts. It's sounding good to me, though the truest thought comes from Joey Esposito at IGN: "if you are dead-set against this project existing in the first place, the quality of these comics is irrelevant."
by Rich Johnston (from Bleeding Cool)
A few sites have been allowed an advance look at a chunk of Before Watchmen and here Johnston rounds up their (100% spoiler-free) verdicts. It's sounding good to me, though the truest thought comes from Joey Esposito at IGN: "if you are dead-set against this project existing in the first place, the quality of these comics is irrelevant."
Thursday, 17 May 2012
TV
House
8x21 Holding On
Oh, cliffhanger! Can't wait for next week's finale. Hope they don't bother with some facile "case of the week" stuff; or if they do, it's gonna have to be a bloody good one.
Pointless
4x25 (15/4/11 edition)
8x21 Holding On
Oh, cliffhanger! Can't wait for next week's finale. Hope they don't bother with some facile "case of the week" stuff; or if they do, it's gonna have to be a bloody good one.
Pointless
4x25 (15/4/11 edition)
Films
Scre4m (2011)
[#45 in 100 Films in a Year 2012]
Despite seeming to hear nothing but bad things about this (though it has higher scores on IMDb than either of the previous two sequels), I enjoyed it.
[#45 in 100 Films in a Year 2012]
Despite seeming to hear nothing but bad things about this (though it has higher scores on IMDb than either of the previous two sequels), I enjoyed it.
Comics
Action Comics #8 by Grant Morrison, Rags Morales, Brad Walker, Rick Bryant & Bob McLeod
Morrison & co deliver a suitably exciting climax to their first tale. Against my expectations (as discussed last issue), I shall be continuing with a Superman comic.
Batman and Robin #8 by Peter J. Tomasi & Patrick Gleason
A fantastic epilogue to Batman and Robin's first arc. This book has definitely grown to be one of my favourites. I can't believe it's outsold by the woeful The Dark Knight -- I can only presume that's the power of movie titles for you (neither book has anything whatsoever to do with their namesake films).
Beautifully-rendered final page leading in to Night of the Owls, too.
Detective Comics #8 by Tony S. Daniel
A one-and-done? Well I never. Though as it guest stars a bunch of characters who have their own titles or have been popping up in others, it's hard to say how interconnected it is or isn't. Though the only thing footnoted as being from another title is a relatively minor aside from a months-old issue, so maybe it's more isn't... though I swear I spotted a reference to a Dark Knight storyline at least, so why didn't they flag that up? Oh, it doesn't really matter. The story works by itself and it's solid enough, and harks back to the back-up strip from #5... though not particularly overtly, so that still doesn't leave that with any real point.
This issue begins a back-up strip again written by Daniels with art by Szymon Kudranski, this time featuring Two-Face in the first of what seems to be an on-going tale. Still not very interesting though.
Wolverine and the X-Men #8 by Jason Aaron & Chris Bachalo
As ever, WatXM demonstrates superior comic book storytelling. Funny and exciting by turns, when appropriate, managing multiple plot threads simultaneously, telling a tale that is both one-and-done (the holy grail of mainstream comics in these days of decompression, it feels like) and vitally linked to the on-going story. Shame AvX looks like it's about to get in the way for anything up to half a year. (Unlike Uncanny, this one I won't be stopping.)
Morrison & co deliver a suitably exciting climax to their first tale. Against my expectations (as discussed last issue), I shall be continuing with a Superman comic.
Batman and Robin #8 by Peter J. Tomasi & Patrick Gleason
A fantastic epilogue to Batman and Robin's first arc. This book has definitely grown to be one of my favourites. I can't believe it's outsold by the woeful The Dark Knight -- I can only presume that's the power of movie titles for you (neither book has anything whatsoever to do with their namesake films).
Beautifully-rendered final page leading in to Night of the Owls, too.
Detective Comics #8 by Tony S. Daniel
A one-and-done? Well I never. Though as it guest stars a bunch of characters who have their own titles or have been popping up in others, it's hard to say how interconnected it is or isn't. Though the only thing footnoted as being from another title is a relatively minor aside from a months-old issue, so maybe it's more isn't... though I swear I spotted a reference to a Dark Knight storyline at least, so why didn't they flag that up? Oh, it doesn't really matter. The story works by itself and it's solid enough, and harks back to the back-up strip from #5... though not particularly overtly, so that still doesn't leave that with any real point.
This issue begins a back-up strip again written by Daniels with art by Szymon Kudranski, this time featuring Two-Face in the first of what seems to be an on-going tale. Still not very interesting though.
Wolverine and the X-Men #8 by Jason Aaron & Chris Bachalo
As ever, WatXM demonstrates superior comic book storytelling. Funny and exciting by turns, when appropriate, managing multiple plot threads simultaneously, telling a tale that is both one-and-done (the holy grail of mainstream comics in these days of decompression, it feels like) and vitally linked to the on-going story. Shame AvX looks like it's about to get in the way for anything up to half a year. (Unlike Uncanny, this one I won't be stopping.)
Articles
Skyfall poster: New James Bond movie unveils teaser image
by Simon Reynolds (from Digital Spy)
Trailer soon! Yay!
Click to enlarge.
by Simon Reynolds (from Digital Spy)
Trailer soon! Yay!
Click to enlarge.
Wednesday, 16 May 2012
TV
Archer
3x09 Bloody Ferlin
Will we get episode 11 next week? Or 12? Or some other? Who can tell! Not 5*, apparently.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Die Walküre
[2nd half]
Seven hours down, only nine to go...
Have I Got News For You
43x05 (11/5/12 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch the extended version (again) on iPlayer.]
House
8x20 Post Mortem
Another great episode, I thought. Which is good because there's only two more to go...
3x09 Bloody Ferlin
Will we get episode 11 next week? Or 12? Or some other? Who can tell! Not 5*, apparently.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Die Walküre
[2nd half]
Seven hours down, only nine to go...
Have I Got News For You
43x05 (11/5/12 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch the extended version (again) on iPlayer.]
House
8x20 Post Mortem
Another great episode, I thought. Which is good because there's only two more to go...
Comics
Uncanny X-Men #10 by Kieron Gillen, Carlos Pacheco & Paco Diaz
This was the last issue before Uncanny went all AvX-y, so it's the last one I intended to read until that great big six-month crossover finished. I'd been thinking about ditching this anyway so it didn't feel like a hardship. But it ends on an intriguing note, the whole issue building into a crossover that had felt exploitatively pointless but now is interesting -- and now I want to know what happens!
But God, AvX is going to be expensive: at £2.65 an issue (+ p&p) it's over £40 for the main series alone, never mind the extra issues of Uncanny involved (and that's ignoring any other tie-in series or one-shots, like the #0 issue and AvX: Vs). And after a bit of reading on some sites apparently it's not very good actually. So maybe I won't bother after all. Or just read it on the sly like a very naughty boy.
This was the last issue before Uncanny went all AvX-y, so it's the last one I intended to read until that great big six-month crossover finished. I'd been thinking about ditching this anyway so it didn't feel like a hardship. But it ends on an intriguing note, the whole issue building into a crossover that had felt exploitatively pointless but now is interesting -- and now I want to know what happens!
But God, AvX is going to be expensive: at £2.65 an issue (+ p&p) it's over £40 for the main series alone, never mind the extra issues of Uncanny involved (and that's ignoring any other tie-in series or one-shots, like the #0 issue and AvX: Vs). And after a bit of reading on some sites apparently it's not very good actually. So maybe I won't bother after all. Or just read it on the sly like a very naughty boy.
Articles
First Trailer For US Sherlock Holmes Show Elementary And Official Blurb
by Brendon Connelly (from Bleeding Cool)
It doesn't look bad, but that character isn't Sherlock Holmes, he's just Generic Autistic Spectrum Detective. But what can you really tell from a couple of minutes? We'll see.
by Brendon Connelly (from Bleeding Cool)
It doesn't look bad, but that character isn't Sherlock Holmes, he's just Generic Autistic Spectrum Detective. But what can you really tell from a couple of minutes? We'll see.
Tuesday, 15 May 2012
TV
Die Walküre
[1st half]
La Fura dels Baus' 2007 staging of the second opera in Wagner's Ring Cycle (currently showing weekly on Sky Arts 2). I'm enjoying it, but I still can't handle 4½ hours of opera in a single sitting, hence only watching half.
Five hours down, only eleven to go...
Mad Men
5x08 Lady Lazarus
I laughed at this far more than it strictly deserved:
The Making of the Ring
2 Die Walküre (of 4)
Second of four half-hours looking behind the scenes of La Fura dels Baus' production.
Pointless
4x24 (14/4/11 edition)
[1st half]
La Fura dels Baus' 2007 staging of the second opera in Wagner's Ring Cycle (currently showing weekly on Sky Arts 2). I'm enjoying it, but I still can't handle 4½ hours of opera in a single sitting, hence only watching half.
Five hours down, only eleven to go...
Mad Men
5x08 Lady Lazarus
I laughed at this far more than it strictly deserved:
The Making of the Ring
2 Die Walküre (of 4)
Second of four half-hours looking behind the scenes of La Fura dels Baus' production.
Pointless
4x24 (14/4/11 edition)
Monday, 14 May 2012
TV
Castle
2x12 A Rose for Everafter
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Grandma's House
2x04 The day Simon was really determined to heal his Grandma's pain
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
The Matt Lucas Awards
1x05 Episode 5
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
2x12 A Rose for Everafter
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Grandma's House
2x04 The day Simon was really determined to heal his Grandma's pain
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
The Matt Lucas Awards
1x05 Episode 5
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Sunday, 13 May 2012
TV
Not Going Out
5x05 Examination
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Once Upon a Time
1x06 The Shepherd
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
The Voice UK
1x12 Results Show 3
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
5x05 Examination
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Once Upon a Time
1x06 The Shepherd
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
The Voice UK
1x12 Results Show 3
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Articles
Weekend Report: Avengers Shatters More Records, Shadows Mostly Sucks
by Ray Subers (from Box Office Mojo)
by Ray Subers (from Box Office Mojo)
Marvel's superhero team-up fell 50 percent to an estimated $103.2 million, which is by-far the best second weekend ever... It also topped The Dark Knight for best second weekend hold for a movie that opened to more than $120 million. Other new records include fastest movie to $300 million and $350 million, and highest eight-day, nine-day, and ten-day grosses...
It's now inevitable that the movie will finish above $500 million, and it should also claim third place on the all-time [domestic] chart
this week on 100 Films
Two new reviews were posted to 100 Films in a Year this week, and they were...
With Great Power: The Stan Lee Story (2010)
X-Men: First Class (2011)
More next Sunday.
With Great Power: The Stan Lee Story (2010)
Stan “The Man” Lee is indeed The Man when it comes to the world of comic books. In the 1960s he revolutionised the medium in the US, introducing complex and realistic characters to a world that had previously focused on perfect super-humans. In a period of just two years he co-created the Fantastic Four, Hulk, Spider-Man, Thor, Iron Man and the X-Men, and after that rejuvenated Captain America (cancelled a decade earlier) for a modern audience. If there’s anyone in the comic world deserving of a dedicated feature-length documentary, it’s Stan LeeRead more on my new blog or my classic blog.
X-Men: First Class (2011)
You need some pretty fine talent to replace two of our greatest actors — Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart, of course — and in Michael Fassbender and James McAvoy you certainly have that. Fassbender carries much of the emotional weight of the film, but it’s thanks to McAvoy’s support that the film is lifted to a higher level. He provides calm, humour and fundamental decency to balance Fassbender’s rage and emotion.Read more on my new blog or my classic blog.
More next Sunday.
Saturday, 12 May 2012
TV
Episodes
2x01 Episode 1
Hurrah for the return of Episodes! I enjoyed the first series, in spite of the apparently endless criticism it got, and I enjoyed this very much too.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
The Voice UK
1x11 Live Show 3
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Would I Lie To You?
6x05 Episode 5
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
2x01 Episode 1
Hurrah for the return of Episodes! I enjoyed the first series, in spite of the apparently endless criticism it got, and I enjoyed this very much too.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
The Voice UK
1x11 Live Show 3
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Would I Lie To You?
6x05 Episode 5
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Friday, 11 May 2012
TV
Horrible Histories
4x07 Episode 7
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Mentalist
4x22 So Long, and Thanks for All the Red Snapper
Nice Hitchhikers-referencing title. Shame the rest of the episode wasn't up to a great deal -- lots of good bits and ideas, actually, but somehow it came to much less than the sum of its parts.
[Watch it on Demand 5 from Friday 18th May.]
4x07 Episode 7
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Mentalist
4x22 So Long, and Thanks for All the Red Snapper
Nice Hitchhikers-referencing title. Shame the rest of the episode wasn't up to a great deal -- lots of good bits and ideas, actually, but somehow it came to much less than the sum of its parts.
[Watch it on Demand 5 from Friday 18th May.]
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
A few updates this week. I'd thought it would be a few more, but those three things were posted yesterday and will probably now populate next week's update. So there you go.
Number of titles in collection: 1,476 [up 3]
Of which DVDs: 1,153 [up 1]
Of which Blu-rays: 323 [up 2]
Number of discs in collection: 3,674 [up 7]
Number of films in collection: 1,563 [up 2]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 5,479 [up 6]
See you next week, faithful reader.
A few updates this week. I'd thought it would be a few more, but those three things were posted yesterday and will probably now populate next week's update. So there you go.
Number of titles in collection: 1,476 [up 3]
Of which DVDs: 1,153 [up 1]
Of which Blu-rays: 323 [up 2]
Number of discs in collection: 3,674 [up 7]
Number of films in collection: 1,563 [up 2]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 5,479 [up 6]
See you next week, faithful reader.
Thursday, 10 May 2012
TV
Have I Got News For You
43x04 (4/5/12 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch the extended version (again) on iPlayer.]
Maestro at the Opera
Episode 1 (of 3)
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Noel's Are You Smarter Than Your 10 Year Old?
3x04 Episode 4
3x05 Episode 5
I... well... yeah.
43x04 (4/5/12 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch the extended version (again) on iPlayer.]
Maestro at the Opera
Episode 1 (of 3)
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Noel's Are You Smarter Than Your 10 Year Old?
3x04 Episode 4
3x05 Episode 5
I... well... yeah.
Wednesday, 9 May 2012
Tuesday, 8 May 2012
TV
The Graham Norton Show
11x01 (13/4/12 edition)
Not Going Out
5x04 Running
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
11x01 (13/4/12 edition)
Not Going Out
5x04 Running
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Articles
Weekend Report: Avengers Smashes Records
by Ray Subers (from Box Office Mojo)
Wow.
by Ray Subers (from Box Office Mojo)
The superhero team-up got off to an unprecedented $207.4 million start this weekend, which obliterates the previous all-time weekend record set by Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 last Summer ($169.2 million)…
It was the fastest movie ever to reach $100 million, $150 million, and $200 million, and it set new records for Saturday ($69.6 million) and Sunday ($57.1 million) grosses…
[It] has already grossed more than Thor ($181 million), Captain America: The First Avenger ($176.6 million) and The Incredible Hulk ($134.8 million). It's still behind Iron Man and Iron Man 2 ($318.4 million and $312.4 million, respectively), though it should pass those movies next weekend.
Wow.
Monday, 7 May 2012
TV
Castle
2x11 The Fifth Bullet
Guest starring Buffy's Marc Blucas, House's Anne Dudek and 24's Carlo Rota. Why so many recognisable faces all at once? Who knows.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Das Rheingold
La Fura dels Baus' 2007 staging of the first opera in Wagner's Ring Cycle (currently showing weekly on Sky Arts 2). I'm no opera expert (far from it), but this is a pretty amazing spectacle, full of giant robot-like creatures and sci-fi imagery on huge video screens, amongst other incredible feats. Plus highly dramatic music and an engrossing fantasy/mythical story. I really enjoyed it.
Three hours down, only 13 to go...
Grandma's House
2x03 The day Simon attempted to express actual feelings just like a person
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Mad Men
5x07 At the Codfish Ball
The Making of the Ring
1 Das Rheingold (of 4)
First of four half-hours looking behind the scenes of La Fura dels Baus' production. Worth it for the look at the incredible free live show staged outside their stunning opera house during performances of the operas.
Pointless
4x23 (13/4/11 edition)
I got all 12 in round two! Woo!
2x11 The Fifth Bullet
Guest starring Buffy's Marc Blucas, House's Anne Dudek and 24's Carlo Rota. Why so many recognisable faces all at once? Who knows.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Das Rheingold
La Fura dels Baus' 2007 staging of the first opera in Wagner's Ring Cycle (currently showing weekly on Sky Arts 2). I'm no opera expert (far from it), but this is a pretty amazing spectacle, full of giant robot-like creatures and sci-fi imagery on huge video screens, amongst other incredible feats. Plus highly dramatic music and an engrossing fantasy/mythical story. I really enjoyed it.
Three hours down, only 13 to go...
Grandma's House
2x03 The day Simon attempted to express actual feelings just like a person
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Mad Men
5x07 At the Codfish Ball
The Making of the Ring
1 Das Rheingold (of 4)
First of four half-hours looking behind the scenes of La Fura dels Baus' production. Worth it for the look at the incredible free live show staged outside their stunning opera house during performances of the operas.
Pointless
4x23 (13/4/11 edition)
I got all 12 in round two! Woo!
Sunday, 6 May 2012
TV
Once Upon a Time
1x05 That Still Small Voice
Oh, a daft real-world plot and a decent fairy-tale-world one! Makes a change.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Pointless Celebrities
2x04 (5/5/12 edition)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Vera
2x02 Silent Voices
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
The Voice UK
1x10 Live Show 2 Results
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
1x05 That Still Small Voice
Oh, a daft real-world plot and a decent fairy-tale-world one! Makes a change.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Pointless Celebrities
2x04 (5/5/12 edition)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Vera
2x02 Silent Voices
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
The Voice UK
1x10 Live Show 2 Results
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
this week on 100 Films
Just one new review was posted to 100 Films in a Year this week...
Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011)
But also this week was the look back at April, and I added reviews for four of the Avengers lead-in movies (well, three and Ang Lee's Hulk) to my new blog. So that's some stuff.
More next Sunday.
Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011)
It’s not as funny... nor is it as exciting... it’s not as beautiful to look at... That’s my overriding impression of Kung Fu Panda 2: it’s not bad, but it’s not a patch on the first one.Read more on my new blog or my classic blog.
But also this week was the look back at April, and I added reviews for four of the Avengers lead-in movies (well, three and Ang Lee's Hulk) to my new blog. So that's some stuff.
More next Sunday.
Saturday, 5 May 2012
TV
The Mentalist
4x21 Ruby Slippers
One of the best for a while, I think. Not that I've disliked recent episodes, but this is a particularly good one.
[Watch it on Demand 5 from Friday 11th May.]
QI
9x14 Idleness
The Jeremy Clarkson-featuring episode they skipped in December after his widely misunderstood 'controversial' comments on The One Show. I don't think he said anything offensive on this; I guess they just didn't want him on TV much that week.
The XL version, which was released on to some versions of iPlayer by mistake back in December (and I missed), doesn't seem to be forthcoming this time round. How daft.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Voice UK
1x09 Live Show 2
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Would I Lie To You?
6x04 Episode 4
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
4x21 Ruby Slippers
One of the best for a while, I think. Not that I've disliked recent episodes, but this is a particularly good one.
[Watch it on Demand 5 from Friday 11th May.]
QI
9x14 Idleness
The Jeremy Clarkson-featuring episode they skipped in December after his widely misunderstood 'controversial' comments on The One Show. I don't think he said anything offensive on this; I guess they just didn't want him on TV much that week.
The XL version, which was released on to some versions of iPlayer by mistake back in December (and I missed), doesn't seem to be forthcoming this time round. How daft.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Voice UK
1x09 Live Show 2
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Would I Lie To You?
6x04 Episode 4
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Films
Mission: Impossible III (2006)
[2nd watch]
The last time I saw this was in the cinema (has it really been six years? Six?!) I remembered quite liking it, but watching it again now I think it's actually a rather good action-thriller. The Vatican mission and bridge action sequence in particular are excellent.
And I love how things keep going wrong. Everything from big stuff (like jumping off a building several storeys too low or getting the identity of the mole wrong), to little things (like not getting phone signal or our hero alerting the enemy to his presence by knocking some stuff over), goes wrong at some point. Sure, the heroes still win, and sure, some stuff goes fine, but normally the only time things go significantly wrong for the good guys in a movie is when it turns out to be a bluff as part of the plan -- not so here. I liked that.
I may be alone in this, but I've actually really enjoyed every Mission: Impossible film. It often seems like people who like the first hate the second, or people who like the second hated the first, or they just dislike all of them: on IMDb the first has 6.9, the third 6.8, and the second a measly 5.8! I vehemently disagree with all that -- I like all three films, and one of the reasons is how different they all are.
But I've not seen Ghost Protocol yet. I hope it's just as good, and just as different again. It looked similar in tone and style to M:i:III though (whereas the first three differ from each other quite wildly, I'd say), so we'll see. It has 7.5 on IMDb though, so that might bode well...
[2nd watch]
The last time I saw this was in the cinema (has it really been six years? Six?!) I remembered quite liking it, but watching it again now I think it's actually a rather good action-thriller. The Vatican mission and bridge action sequence in particular are excellent.
And I love how things keep going wrong. Everything from big stuff (like jumping off a building several storeys too low or getting the identity of the mole wrong), to little things (like not getting phone signal or our hero alerting the enemy to his presence by knocking some stuff over), goes wrong at some point. Sure, the heroes still win, and sure, some stuff goes fine, but normally the only time things go significantly wrong for the good guys in a movie is when it turns out to be a bluff as part of the plan -- not so here. I liked that.
I may be alone in this, but I've actually really enjoyed every Mission: Impossible film. It often seems like people who like the first hate the second, or people who like the second hated the first, or they just dislike all of them: on IMDb the first has 6.9, the third 6.8, and the second a measly 5.8! I vehemently disagree with all that -- I like all three films, and one of the reasons is how different they all are.
But I've not seen Ghost Protocol yet. I hope it's just as good, and just as different again. It looked similar in tone and style to M:i:III though (whereas the first three differ from each other quite wildly, I'd say), so we'll see. It has 7.5 on IMDb though, so that might bode well...
Free Comic Book Day 2012
Free Comic Book Day – $7,000 we probably don’t see again
by Kenny (from Forbidden Planet International blog)
Today is Free Comic Book Day, which sounds marvellous but is actually a little dubious for various reasons.
I don't approve of publishers releasing new or "essential" (to quote Bleeding Cool's review of one FCBD title) content in a way that can only be accessed if you can, a) make it to a comic shop (which I imagine loads of people can't, especially in the UK), b) if that comic shop is participating (by no means guaranteed, especially in the UK), and c) you can get enough free comics to get the one you want.
The latter is related to another reason I dislike it: the retailer pays. Yep, they're not actually free to the shop; so understandably most shops limit how much you can take, one way or another (only one free, only with a purchase, you get a set-size "goodie bag", etc). Which is fair enough -- they're basically giving money away -- but can't be great if you're after multiple titles. The latter is what this article from 2007 is about. Being five years old might make you think it's now factually inaccurate, but FPI's blog about FCBD 2012 says it's "still valid now".
I'm not saying everyone should be able to get free comics without having to go to a shop or without someone paying. If it was "any comic free" or reprints, I wouldn't mind; if you could purchase it at a later date, maybe even have to wait a month or two for the privilege, then I wouldn't mind. But it's new content, some of it "essential" to the series, which not everyone can get hold of! That's insane.
And can you imagine another industry in which a shop would be forced to pay for a publishers' marketing exercise, and be criticised by customers if they didn't? (Comic shops are regularly accused of "not supporting the industry", etc, if they don't join in with FCBD.) The FP article notes that "it isn’t unusual for us to be given 500 of a 36 page sampler of a novel to give away to our customers" -- that's FCBD, except the difference with FCBD is FP would have to pay for those 500 samplers. Madness.
Doesn't look like such a great industry-boosting event after all, does it?
by Kenny (from Forbidden Planet International blog)
Today is Free Comic Book Day, which sounds marvellous but is actually a little dubious for various reasons.
I don't approve of publishers releasing new or "essential" (to quote Bleeding Cool's review of one FCBD title) content in a way that can only be accessed if you can, a) make it to a comic shop (which I imagine loads of people can't, especially in the UK), b) if that comic shop is participating (by no means guaranteed, especially in the UK), and c) you can get enough free comics to get the one you want.
The latter is related to another reason I dislike it: the retailer pays. Yep, they're not actually free to the shop; so understandably most shops limit how much you can take, one way or another (only one free, only with a purchase, you get a set-size "goodie bag", etc). Which is fair enough -- they're basically giving money away -- but can't be great if you're after multiple titles. The latter is what this article from 2007 is about. Being five years old might make you think it's now factually inaccurate, but FPI's blog about FCBD 2012 says it's "still valid now".
I'm not saying everyone should be able to get free comics without having to go to a shop or without someone paying. If it was "any comic free" or reprints, I wouldn't mind; if you could purchase it at a later date, maybe even have to wait a month or two for the privilege, then I wouldn't mind. But it's new content, some of it "essential" to the series, which not everyone can get hold of! That's insane.
And can you imagine another industry in which a shop would be forced to pay for a publishers' marketing exercise, and be criticised by customers if they didn't? (Comic shops are regularly accused of "not supporting the industry", etc, if they don't join in with FCBD.) The FP article notes that "it isn’t unusual for us to be given 500 of a 36 page sampler of a novel to give away to our customers" -- that's FCBD, except the difference with FCBD is FP would have to pay for those 500 samplers. Madness.
Doesn't look like such a great industry-boosting event after all, does it?
Friday, 4 May 2012
TV
House
8x19 The C-Word
The Matt Lucas Awards
1x04 Episode 4
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Pointless
4x22 (12/4/11 edition)
Would I Lie To You?
6x03 Episode 3
8x19 The C-Word
The Matt Lucas Awards
1x04 Episode 4
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Pointless
4x22 (12/4/11 edition)
Would I Lie To You?
6x03 Episode 3
Articles
Ricky Gervais: Why I’m an Atheist
by Ricky Gervais (from Speakeasy at the Wall Street Journal)
This article was published nearly 18 months ago, but Stephen Fry mentioned it on twitter so I came to read it today. It's so full of Truth I thought I'd share it. It's very good.
by Ricky Gervais (from Speakeasy at the Wall Street Journal)
This article was published nearly 18 months ago, but Stephen Fry mentioned it on twitter so I came to read it today. It's so full of Truth I thought I'd share it. It's very good.
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
Despite last week's prediction, there's still a couple of small boosts this week. And not even everything I was expecting, so there'll definitely be more again next time.
Number of titles in collection: 1,473 [up 2]
Of which DVDs: 1,152 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 321 [up 2]
Number of discs in collection: 3,667 [up 3]
Number of films in collection: 1,561 [up 3]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 5,473 [no change]
See you next week, faithful reader.
Despite last week's prediction, there's still a couple of small boosts this week. And not even everything I was expecting, so there'll definitely be more again next time.
Number of titles in collection: 1,473 [up 2]
Of which DVDs: 1,152 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 321 [up 2]
Number of discs in collection: 3,667 [up 3]
Number of films in collection: 1,561 [up 3]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 5,473 [no change]
See you next week, faithful reader.
Thursday, 3 May 2012
TV
Archer
3x10 Crossing Over
Looks like 5* mucked up and showed the wrong episode again, skipping two when they should've skipped one. And clearly there was a moderately major development in the last one that meant this doesn't even vaguely work out of sequence. Grr.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Castle
2x10 One Man's Treasure
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Not Going Out
5x03 Camping
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Pointless Celebrities
2x03 (28/4/12 edition)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
3x10 Crossing Over
Looks like 5* mucked up and showed the wrong episode again, skipping two when they should've skipped one. And clearly there was a moderately major development in the last one that meant this doesn't even vaguely work out of sequence. Grr.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Castle
2x10 One Man's Treasure
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Not Going Out
5x03 Camping
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Pointless Celebrities
2x03 (28/4/12 edition)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Articles
BBC3 to make zombie drama In the Flesh
(from RadioTimes)
So BBC Three had to cancel SF/F drama The Fades because (reportedly) they couldn't afford both it and more-established Being Human, but they can afford SF/F drama In the Flesh? Still, supporting new talent is good, and it does sound like it might be a solid twist on the zombie format. Irritating for Fades fans though.
Of even greater interest in this story (in my opinion) is news of BBC One commission The Musketeers, a 10-part modern-day re-working of The Three Musketeers. Be interesting to see how that works out -- it's not as obviously adaptable as Sherlock. If it's a hit too, I can well imagine us seeing a swathe of these modern-set re-imaginings of classic literature.
Downton, Walking Dead, How I Met Your Mother: Tube Talk Q&A
by Morgan Jeffery & Daniel Sperling (from Digital Spy)
A bunch of handy answers/updates to questions I've been curious about on series I'm interested in: Damages season four (and presumably five) will go straight to DVD in the UK; How I Met Your Mother season seven is finally resuming on E4 in a couple of weeks; The Hour season two is on in late June (has it really been a year since the first series? A British series can't be returning in under 12 months, surely); Episodes returns to UK screens nearly two months before the US; and a few other things too.
Sherlock series three details revealed by Mark Gatiss
by Morgan Jeffery (from Digital Spy)
Gatiss confirms that the first episode will be a version of The Adventure of the Empty House. Absolutely no surprise, but exciting to have it confirmed.
(from RadioTimes)
So BBC Three had to cancel SF/F drama The Fades because (reportedly) they couldn't afford both it and more-established Being Human, but they can afford SF/F drama In the Flesh? Still, supporting new talent is good, and it does sound like it might be a solid twist on the zombie format. Irritating for Fades fans though.
Of even greater interest in this story (in my opinion) is news of BBC One commission The Musketeers, a 10-part modern-day re-working of The Three Musketeers. Be interesting to see how that works out -- it's not as obviously adaptable as Sherlock. If it's a hit too, I can well imagine us seeing a swathe of these modern-set re-imaginings of classic literature.
Downton, Walking Dead, How I Met Your Mother: Tube Talk Q&A
by Morgan Jeffery & Daniel Sperling (from Digital Spy)
A bunch of handy answers/updates to questions I've been curious about on series I'm interested in: Damages season four (and presumably five) will go straight to DVD in the UK; How I Met Your Mother season seven is finally resuming on E4 in a couple of weeks; The Hour season two is on in late June (has it really been a year since the first series? A British series can't be returning in under 12 months, surely); Episodes returns to UK screens nearly two months before the US; and a few other things too.
Sherlock series three details revealed by Mark Gatiss
by Morgan Jeffery (from Digital Spy)
Gatiss confirms that the first episode will be a version of The Adventure of the Empty House. Absolutely no surprise, but exciting to have it confirmed.
Wednesday, 2 May 2012
TV
Grandma's House
2x02 The day Simon thought it may be a good idea to find new living arrangements
I don't like most squirm-inducing comedy, even when favourite shows play at it for an episode, or even a scene; but this is endlessly brilliant. And I love the episode titles.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Mad Men
5x06 Far Away Places
Well that was weird, but cool. Feels like Mad Men's being more experimental this season, and that can only be a good thing.
Onion News Network
2x10 Year in Review [series finale]
That's that then. I loved ONN at first, but somehow feel it hasn't been working as well recently. Too much emphasis on the presenters/characters and not enough on the actual satirical news stories, maybe. Sadly, I won't particularly miss it now it's been cancelled.
Pointless
4x21 (11/4/11 edition)
2x02 The day Simon thought it may be a good idea to find new living arrangements
I don't like most squirm-inducing comedy, even when favourite shows play at it for an episode, or even a scene; but this is endlessly brilliant. And I love the episode titles.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Mad Men
5x06 Far Away Places
Well that was weird, but cool. Feels like Mad Men's being more experimental this season, and that can only be a good thing.
Onion News Network
2x10 Year in Review [series finale]
That's that then. I loved ONN at first, but somehow feel it hasn't been working as well recently. Too much emphasis on the presenters/characters and not enough on the actual satirical news stories, maybe. Sadly, I won't particularly miss it now it's been cancelled.
Pointless
4x21 (11/4/11 edition)
Articles
Marvel's Avengers torpedoes Battleship at UK box office
by Simon Reynolds (from Digital Spy)
Avengers Assemble "has already outperformed the entire box office runs of earlier Marvel films The Incredible Hulk (£8.2 million), Captain America (£9.5 million) and Thor (£14 million)." Crikey!
by Simon Reynolds (from Digital Spy)
Avengers Assemble "has already outperformed the entire box office runs of earlier Marvel films The Incredible Hulk (£8.2 million), Captain America (£9.5 million) and Thor (£14 million)." Crikey!
Tuesday, 1 May 2012
TV
Have I Got News For You
43x03 (27/4/12 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch the extended version (again) on iPlayer.]
Scott & Bailey
2x08 Episode 8 [season finale]
Great final episode. Hope we get more of this.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
43x03 (27/4/12 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch the extended version (again) on iPlayer.]
Scott & Bailey
2x08 Episode 8 [season finale]
Great final episode. Hope we get more of this.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Films
The Dark Knight Rises Trailer #3
Wow. Bold trailer. Can't wait for this.
The Return of the Musketeers (1989)
[#42 in 100 Films in a Year 2012]
Sequel to The Three Musketeers and The Four Musketeers.
Wow. Bold trailer. Can't wait for this.
The Return of the Musketeers (1989)
[#42 in 100 Films in a Year 2012]
Sequel to The Three Musketeers and The Four Musketeers.
Non-Fiction
Drew Struzan: Oeuvre by Drew & Dylan Struzan
This large-format art book of Struzan's work -- movie posters, album covers, and more -- is stunning. There's very little text (just some introductions to each of the sections, plus a list of works featured at the back), just full-page reproductions of his incredible work. Highly recommended to anyone who has a liking for this kind of thing.
This large-format art book of Struzan's work -- movie posters, album covers, and more -- is stunning. There's very little text (just some introductions to each of the sections, plus a list of works featured at the back), just full-page reproductions of his incredible work. Highly recommended to anyone who has a liking for this kind of thing.
Articles
5 Scientific Explanations for Game of Thrones‘ Messed-Up Seasons
by George Dvorsky (from io9)
Actually very scientific, but also interesting. If you're interested in this kind of thing.
by George Dvorsky (from io9)
Actually very scientific, but also interesting. If you're interested in this kind of thing.
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