Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
And it's been doing so for a whole year!
Normally this would be the latest running time update (which is only logical -- I do it monthly, of course it would coincide with the anniversary), but I've expanded it rather for a sort-of-celebratory Statistic of the Week. More after the latest numbers...
...which this week see the Back to the Future trilogy hit Blu-ray. Gorgeous set, it is, and replaces my old DVDs. Plus two new DVDs and you get this:
Number of titles in collection: 1,226 [up 2]
Of which DVDs: 1,103 [up 1]
Of which Blu-rays: 123 [up 1]
Number of discs in collection: 3,007 [up 7]
Number of films in collection: 1,294 [up 1]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 4,280 [up 60]
Statistic of the week:
In honour of Collection Count reaching its first anniversary, I've decided to see how much my collection has grown in the past year. Exciting stuff, eh?
So without further delay, in the last 12 months my collection has increased as follows...
Number of titles in collection: up 169 (15.99%)
Of which DVDs: up 79 (7.7%)
Of which Blu-rays: up 90 (272.7%)
Number of discs in collection: up 391 (14.95%)
Number of films in collection: up 200 (18.3%)
Number of TV episodes in collection: up 628 (17.2%)
Plus, in that first-ever post I included the first running time total. And so...
Total running time of collection (approx.):
212 days, 6 hours, and 58 minutes
-- up 32 days, 14 hours, and 5 minutes since last year! (That's 18.32%, fact fans.)
Well crikey. What a year, and all that.
See you next week for the start of Year 2, faithful reader.
Friday, 22 October 2010
Thursday, 21 October 2010
TV
8 Out of 10 Cats
10x08 Science Special
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Dragons' Den
What Happened Next 3 James Caan
It's been nearly a month since I last watched this. Crikey. (I know that's not that interesting, but... surprised, I am.)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
How I Met Your Mother
5x22 Robots Vs. Wrestlers
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
10x08 Science Special
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Dragons' Den
What Happened Next 3 James Caan
It's been nearly a month since I last watched this. Crikey. (I know that's not that interesting, but... surprised, I am.)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
How I Met Your Mother
5x22 Robots Vs. Wrestlers
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Wednesday, 20 October 2010
TV
Law & Order: UK
3x06 Masquerade
L&O:UK just got recommissioned for another run of 13 episodes... which, thanks to the way they broadcast them, means series 5 & 6.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Mad Men
4x06 Waldorf Stories
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Mock the Week
9x12 (14/10/10 edition) [season finale]
Season-ending highlights/outtakes. Always surprisingly good.
(Skipped the last proper episode thanks to the frequently-useless people who control what goes up on Virgin Media's version of iPlayer. Fortunately, I've downloaded it from the online iPlayer for viewing at some point.)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
3x06 Masquerade
L&O:UK just got recommissioned for another run of 13 episodes... which, thanks to the way they broadcast them, means series 5 & 6.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Mad Men
4x06 Waldorf Stories
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Mock the Week
9x12 (14/10/10 edition) [season finale]
Season-ending highlights/outtakes. Always surprisingly good.
(Skipped the last proper episode thanks to the frequently-useless people who control what goes up on Virgin Media's version of iPlayer. Fortunately, I've downloaded it from the online iPlayer for viewing at some point.)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Tuesday, 19 October 2010
TV
Due South
1x01 Pilot Part 2 [2nd watch]
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
House
7x02 Selfish
I somehow failed to note when I watched episode one of this season, which is a rather surprising oversight (I've now dropped it in somewhere that seems vaguely plausible). I thought I'd not made my comment on how they've finally changed the title sequence, something they've needed to do for years (ever since he took on a new team). Amusingly, they've done it in the cheapest way possible, dropping in new shots for the new cast names.
Whites
1x03 Episode 3
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
1x01 Pilot Part 2 [2nd watch]
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
House
7x02 Selfish
I somehow failed to note when I watched episode one of this season, which is a rather surprising oversight (I've now dropped it in somewhere that seems vaguely plausible). I thought I'd not made my comment on how they've finally changed the title sequence, something they've needed to do for years (ever since he took on a new team). Amusingly, they've done it in the cheapest way possible, dropping in new shots for the new cast names.
Whites
1x03 Episode 3
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Monday, 18 October 2010
TV
Due South
1x01 Pilot Part 1 [2nd watch]
I used to love Due South when it first aired -- about 15 years ago now! It's always worrying revisiting something you once loved after so long. While it undeniably looks dated now, it's still good fun, and I'm sure will improve once it settles down into the series proper. BBC Two are repeating it weekdays at 1pm (though it seems to be constantly pre-empted by stuff this week), and making it available on iPlayer too.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
A History of Horror with Mark Gatiss
Part 1 Frankenstein Goes to Hollywood
This has come under fire from some for not being a particularly complete history. Did they not actually watch it? Gatiss sets out his stall early on: this series both covers three specific eras of horror and is based around his personal predilections. However much the whole of horror cinema may owe to something like Nosferatu, it was a more-or-less isolated example, not part of a significant Horror movement. Besides which, the clue's in the title: it's A History of Horror, not The History of Horror. And, actually, a bloody good programme it was too.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Sarah Jane's Alien Files
1x01 Episode 1
I'm not certain to what degree this can be classed as "pointless". Essentially, it's a glorified way of recapping previous Sarah Jane Adventures stories: new scenes show Sarah Jane and Mr Smith creating a database of aliens, entering details they learnt from previous encounters. In practice, this mostly means a lightweight fact file and a couple of plot recaps. It's not even very thorough though: this edition covered the Trickster, an enemy Sarah Jane as encountered thrice (so far), but they only covered two stories. I fear my completist nature will see me watch the rest of the series, but I really shouldn't bother.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Spooks
9x04 Episode 4
"Should we discuss the illegal act of breaking into another country's embassy?" "Debate? What? No, just do it! Action action action!"
Oh Spooks, you used to be so good...
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Story of England
Part 3 The Great Famine & The Black Death
Cheery.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
1x01 Pilot Part 1 [2nd watch]
I used to love Due South when it first aired -- about 15 years ago now! It's always worrying revisiting something you once loved after so long. While it undeniably looks dated now, it's still good fun, and I'm sure will improve once it settles down into the series proper. BBC Two are repeating it weekdays at 1pm (though it seems to be constantly pre-empted by stuff this week), and making it available on iPlayer too.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
A History of Horror with Mark Gatiss
Part 1 Frankenstein Goes to Hollywood
This has come under fire from some for not being a particularly complete history. Did they not actually watch it? Gatiss sets out his stall early on: this series both covers three specific eras of horror and is based around his personal predilections. However much the whole of horror cinema may owe to something like Nosferatu, it was a more-or-less isolated example, not part of a significant Horror movement. Besides which, the clue's in the title: it's A History of Horror, not The History of Horror. And, actually, a bloody good programme it was too.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Sarah Jane's Alien Files
1x01 Episode 1
I'm not certain to what degree this can be classed as "pointless". Essentially, it's a glorified way of recapping previous Sarah Jane Adventures stories: new scenes show Sarah Jane and Mr Smith creating a database of aliens, entering details they learnt from previous encounters. In practice, this mostly means a lightweight fact file and a couple of plot recaps. It's not even very thorough though: this edition covered the Trickster, an enemy Sarah Jane as encountered thrice (so far), but they only covered two stories. I fear my completist nature will see me watch the rest of the series, but I really shouldn't bother.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Spooks
9x04 Episode 4
"Should we discuss the illegal act of breaking into another country's embassy?" "Debate? What? No, just do it! Action action action!"
Oh Spooks, you used to be so good...
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Story of England
Part 3 The Great Famine & The Black Death
Cheery.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Articles
Snyder explains Sucker Punch 3D axe by Simon Reynolds
(from Digital Spy)
First Harry Potter 7 Part 1 drops its 3D, now Sucker Punch... The Hobbit next, please?
Steven Moffat teases Sherlock series two by Tara Fowler
(from Digital Spy)
(from Digital Spy)
First Harry Potter 7 Part 1 drops its 3D, now Sucker Punch... The Hobbit next, please?
Steven Moffat teases Sherlock series two by Tara Fowler
(from Digital Spy)
"The critical words, I’d say, would be - Adler, Hound, Reichenbach," declared Moffat.I can't think of three other words Mr Moffat could have chosen that would've gotten me more excited. Can't wait.
Sunday, 17 October 2010
TV
Downton Abbey
1x04 Episode Four
Maggie Smith is beyond excellent.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Film 2010 with Claudia Winkleman
Episode 1 (13/10/10 edition)
So Film... is back, with its new host and its new team (or family, or multiplex, or whatever name they settle on). Personally, I rather liked it. Claudia Winkleman did a bang up job, devoid of her usual irritating presenting style, and having two critics (OK OK, one critic and one presenter/fan, but still) chatting rather than a straight review-to-camera was like the highly successful US At the Movies (aka Siskel & Ebert / Ebert & Roeper). Indeed, in many ways this format is superior to having just a sole critic.
As for the team... neat idea, though that Antonia immediately rubbed me up the wrong way. Don't think I'll get on with her opinions. The "8 year old blogger", on the other hand, seems a complete idiot. His Top 5 list was pathetic, his "I only like films that are about two years old, and that's OK" attitude was idiotic, and even the hosts were taking the mick out of him. He should be dispensed with forthwith.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
QI
8x05 H Animals (extended repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
1x04 Episode Four
Maggie Smith is beyond excellent.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Film 2010 with Claudia Winkleman
Episode 1 (13/10/10 edition)
So Film... is back, with its new host and its new team (or family, or multiplex, or whatever name they settle on). Personally, I rather liked it. Claudia Winkleman did a bang up job, devoid of her usual irritating presenting style, and having two critics (OK OK, one critic and one presenter/fan, but still) chatting rather than a straight review-to-camera was like the highly successful US At the Movies (aka Siskel & Ebert / Ebert & Roeper). Indeed, in many ways this format is superior to having just a sole critic.
As for the team... neat idea, though that Antonia immediately rubbed me up the wrong way. Don't think I'll get on with her opinions. The "8 year old blogger", on the other hand, seems a complete idiot. His Top 5 list was pathetic, his "I only like films that are about two years old, and that's OK" attitude was idiotic, and even the hosts were taking the mick out of him. He should be dispensed with forthwith.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
QI
8x05 H Animals (extended repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Films
Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)
[#106 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
Star Trek: Nemesis (2002)
[#107 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
[#106 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
Star Trek: Nemesis (2002)
[#107 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
Articles
McIntyre's Roadshow pips Piers chatshow by Paul Millar
(from Digital Spy)
Piers Morgan's ratings down! X Factor's ratings down! Strictly beat X Factor during the time they were head to head!
If it weren't for the fact that, at its peak last night, 49% of the viewing public were watching X Factor, I'd be a little proud.
Why I'm calling time on Screen Burn by Charlie Brooker
(from guardian.co.uk)
The always-grumpy, always-funny Charlie Brooker is stopping his Screen Burn column after 11 years. This seemed to cause a minor storm across twitter... evidently from people who missed the sentence where Brooker clearly says, "I'll be back later in the year with a new column, right here in these pages."
(from Digital Spy)
Piers Morgan's ratings down! X Factor's ratings down! Strictly beat X Factor during the time they were head to head!
If it weren't for the fact that, at its peak last night, 49% of the viewing public were watching X Factor, I'd be a little proud.
Why I'm calling time on Screen Burn by Charlie Brooker
(from guardian.co.uk)
The always-grumpy, always-funny Charlie Brooker is stopping his Screen Burn column after 11 years. This seemed to cause a minor storm across twitter... evidently from people who missed the sentence where Brooker clearly says, "I'll be back later in the year with a new column, right here in these pages."
this week on 100 Films
3 new reviews were posted to 100 Films in a Year this week, and they were...
The Damned United (2009)
Star Trek: First Contact (1996)
Star Trek: Insurrection (1998)
Film4 are showing the two Star Trek films tonight, at 6:40pm and 9pm respectively. They're preceded by the first Next Generation film, Star Trek: Generations, at 4:20pm, and followed by the crew's final film, Star Trek: Nemesis, at 11:05pm.
More next Sunday.
The Damned United (2009)
I have no love for football. Quite the opposite, in fact. I’m not even entirely sure why I wound up watching this, to be honest. But I’m glad I did, because, even though it’s technically about football, The Damned United is a little bit brilliant. For one thing, it’s not actually about football, not really.
Star Trek: First Contact (1996)
widely regarded as not just in the film series’ upper half, but as one of the best episodes the entire franchise has produced... It gets off to a flying start. The first 20 or 30 minutes in particular move at a rate of knots, churning through plot in a way no blockbuster would seem to dare these days. [There's none of] Trek’s renowned “sit around and consider what to do” talkiness.
Star Trek: Insurrection (1998)
Rather than the broadly action-adventure style of other big contemporary sci-fi movies, this concerns a minor dispute over a survey mission to a single planet. Yawn, right? Actually, this is when Insurrection is at its best... the political wrangling kept me engaged. But then it begins an attempt to be all Exciting, at which point it begins to get dull, degenerating into a stock runaround and shoot-out
Film4 are showing the two Star Trek films tonight, at 6:40pm and 9pm respectively. They're preceded by the first Next Generation film, Star Trek: Generations, at 4:20pm, and followed by the crew's final film, Star Trek: Nemesis, at 11:05pm.
More next Sunday.
Saturday, 16 October 2010
TV
Have I Got News For You
40x01 (14/10/10 edition; extended repeat)
As always, hooray for the return of HIGNFY! It should be on more often. And Benedict Cumberbatch made for a (surprisingly, I must say) excellent host.
Though, as a regular twitterer, and someone still in the 16-24 age demographic, I must express my dubiousness about them flashing up their hashtag unexplained at the start of the show. Weird.
[Watch the regular edition (again) on iPlayer. The extended repeat may or may not be available here later.]
Merlin
3x05 The Crystal Cave
3x06 The Changeling
A strong, darkly-themed episode followed by a lighter, sillier one. Such is Merlin's balance.
[Watch The Crystal Cave and The Changeling (again) on iPlayer.]
The Sarah Jane Adventures
4x01 The Nightmare Man Part One
4x02 The Nightmare Man Part Two
A strong return for the excellent children's Doctor Who spin-off, which I'm sure is far better than most kids' TV. Not surprised that Luke's been (semi-)written out of the series here though -- the actor has previously commented that he didn't really consider acting his career, and by now he must be reaching A-level/Uni age himself. Also a convenient way of getting rid of K9, who's only allowed to appear in so many episodes a year. But will they have a Luke-replacement, I wonder? Time will tell...
[Watch parts one and two, or a compilation of both, on iPlayer.]
40x01 (14/10/10 edition; extended repeat)
As always, hooray for the return of HIGNFY! It should be on more often. And Benedict Cumberbatch made for a (surprisingly, I must say) excellent host.
Though, as a regular twitterer, and someone still in the 16-24 age demographic, I must express my dubiousness about them flashing up their hashtag unexplained at the start of the show. Weird.
[Watch the regular edition (again) on iPlayer. The extended repeat may or may not be available here later.]
Merlin
3x05 The Crystal Cave
3x06 The Changeling
A strong, darkly-themed episode followed by a lighter, sillier one. Such is Merlin's balance.
[Watch The Crystal Cave and The Changeling (again) on iPlayer.]
The Sarah Jane Adventures
4x01 The Nightmare Man Part One
4x02 The Nightmare Man Part Two
A strong return for the excellent children's Doctor Who spin-off, which I'm sure is far better than most kids' TV. Not surprised that Luke's been (semi-)written out of the series here though -- the actor has previously commented that he didn't really consider acting his career, and by now he must be reaching A-level/Uni age himself. Also a convenient way of getting rid of K9, who's only allowed to appear in so many episodes a year. But will they have a Luke-replacement, I wonder? Time will tell...
[Watch parts one and two, or a compilation of both, on iPlayer.]
Friday, 15 October 2010
TV
8 Out of 10 Cats
10x07 Scary Special
Someone should've told Channel 4 it wasn't Halloween for another three weeks...
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
The Gadget Show
14x10 Episode 10
Just the bit on 3DTV. It was... basic...
[Watch it (again) on Demand Five.]
The Mentalist
3x01 Red Sky at Night
Hooray for Five finally showing this not too far behind the US (only three weeks; their previous best was two months). Shame the producers wasted this pair of titles on something that was distinctly not a two-parter though.
[Watch it (again) on Demand Five.]
The Rob Brydon Show
1x04 (8/10/10 edition)
I'm not deliberating only watching even-numbered episodes, it's just worked out that way because... oh, you don't care why. But it's good series, you should watch it.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
10x07 Scary Special
Someone should've told Channel 4 it wasn't Halloween for another three weeks...
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
The Gadget Show
14x10 Episode 10
Just the bit on 3DTV. It was... basic...
[Watch it (again) on Demand Five.]
The Mentalist
3x01 Red Sky at Night
Hooray for Five finally showing this not too far behind the US (only three weeks; their previous best was two months). Shame the producers wasted this pair of titles on something that was distinctly not a two-parter though.
[Watch it (again) on Demand Five.]
The Rob Brydon Show
1x04 (8/10/10 edition)
I'm not deliberating only watching even-numbered episodes, it's just worked out that way because... oh, you don't care why. But it's good series, you should watch it.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
A couple of new titles this week. Not much worthy of particular note, then. Other than landing on precisely 3,000 discs, which is both a milestone and a lovely round number. Not that it'll stop me from buying more.
Number of titles in collection: 1,224 [up 3]
Of which DVDs: 1,102 [up 2]
Of which Blu-rays: 122 [up 1]
Number of discs in collection: 3,000 [up 4]
Number of films in collection: 1,293 [up 3]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 4,220 [down 1]
Statistic of the week:
Number of weeks Collection Count has been running:
51
Yep, I know what you're thinking -- "51? But that's just one short of a year!" And you're right, it is. And next week, something of a celebration of the first anniversary.
See you then, faithful reader.
A couple of new titles this week. Not much worthy of particular note, then. Other than landing on precisely 3,000 discs, which is both a milestone and a lovely round number. Not that it'll stop me from buying more.
Number of titles in collection: 1,224 [up 3]
Of which DVDs: 1,102 [up 2]
Of which Blu-rays: 122 [up 1]
Number of discs in collection: 3,000 [up 4]
Number of films in collection: 1,293 [up 3]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 4,220 [down 1]
Statistic of the week:
Number of weeks Collection Count has been running:
51
Yep, I know what you're thinking -- "51? But that's just one short of a year!" And you're right, it is. And next week, something of a celebration of the first anniversary.
See you then, faithful reader.
Thursday, 14 October 2010
TV
Argumental
3x09 (12/10/10 edition)
How I Met Your Mother
5x21 Twin Beds
Tonight's episode! What is the world coming to?!
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Law & Order: UK
3x05 Survivor
Last week's episode. That's more like it.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
3x09 (12/10/10 edition)
How I Met Your Mother
5x21 Twin Beds
Tonight's episode! What is the world coming to?!
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Law & Order: UK
3x05 Survivor
Last week's episode. That's more like it.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Wednesday, 13 October 2010
TV
Ask Rhod Gilbert
1x03 Episode 3
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Mad Men
4x05 The Chrysanthemum and the Sword
Excellent episode. Particularly Betty's session with the child psychologist, ably demonstrating how Betty operates on the level of a child without her even realising.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
1x03 Episode 3
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Mad Men
4x05 The Chrysanthemum and the Sword
Excellent episode. Particularly Betty's session with the child psychologist, ably demonstrating how Betty operates on the level of a child without her even realising.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Articles
The Audio Commentariat by David Kalat
(from All Day Entertainment)
If you've ever wondered what level of work goes into an academic audio commentary on a classic film release, this is the article for you. It may surprise you it's more than just sitting down and having a natter.
The big picture: Lightning strike
(from BBC News)
Oo-ooh.
Click to enlarge.
Sky submits late YouView complaint by Andrew Laughlin
(from Digital Spy)
(from All Day Entertainment)
If you've ever wondered what level of work goes into an academic audio commentary on a classic film release, this is the article for you. It may surprise you it's more than just sitting down and having a natter.
The big picture: Lightning strike
(from BBC News)
Oo-ooh.
Click to enlarge.
Sky submits late YouView complaint by Andrew Laughlin
(from Digital Spy)
While we welcome justifiable scrutiny, the timing of this submission is clearly designed to extend the regulatory process in pursuit of commercial self-interest rather than the public interest.Sky more interested in money-grabbing than consumers? No, surely not...
Tuesday, 12 October 2010
TV
Dave's One Night Stand
1x01 Ben Elton
Could sense Ben Elton's unease at being back on stage -- or, possibly, just his dated style -- though Jason Byrne was rather good.
How I Met Your Mother
5x20 Home Wreckers
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Whites
1x02 Episode 2
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
1x01 Ben Elton
Could sense Ben Elton's unease at being back on stage -- or, possibly, just his dated style -- though Jason Byrne was rather good.
How I Met Your Mother
5x20 Home Wreckers
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Whites
1x02 Episode 2
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Monday, 11 October 2010
Films
The Good German (2006)
[#103 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
2006? Really? Didn't think this was so old. (I know it's only four years, but still, I didn't think it was that old.)
[#103 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
2006? Really? Didn't think this was so old. (I know it's only four years, but still, I didn't think it was that old.)
Articles
Freeman confirms rejecting Hobbit role by Mayer Nissim
(from Digital Spy)
Dear journalists (especially at Digital Spy, of course), this is why you don't end articles with comments like "Freeman is expected to be done filming Animals before taking on the role of Bilbo Baggins in the Hobbit movies" until the rumours you've heard (incidentally, in this case, rumours which said he'd turned it down) have been properly officially confirmed. Now your journalistic ability just looks like bobbins. Which it is, but you can always improve.
(from Digital Spy)
Dear journalists (especially at Digital Spy, of course), this is why you don't end articles with comments like "Freeman is expected to be done filming Animals before taking on the role of Bilbo Baggins in the Hobbit movies" until the rumours you've heard (incidentally, in this case, rumours which said he'd turned it down) have been properly officially confirmed. Now your journalistic ability just looks like bobbins. Which it is, but you can always improve.
Sunday, 10 October 2010
TV
Argumental
3x08 (5/10/10 edition)
Downton Abbey
1x03 Episode Three
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
QI
8x04 Humans (extended repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
3x08 (5/10/10 edition)
Downton Abbey
1x03 Episode Three
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
QI
8x04 Humans (extended repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Articles
It's Official: Doctor Who To Film in the U.S. For The First Time!
(from Anglophenia at BBC America)
As a (very) geeky fan, I'm not particularly interested that they're (properly) filming in the US for the first time ever, or that the story's set in '60s America, or that River Song is back (again)... No, what interests me is that it's a two-part season opener! They've not done that before!
Also, if you're going all the way to a properly-alien-looking environment (i.e. one that isn't a Welsh quarry, which they've wound up using several times now), surely it'd make sense to use it as the basis for an alien planet? Just sayin'...
(from Anglophenia at BBC America)
As a (very) geeky fan, I'm not particularly interested that they're (properly) filming in the US for the first time ever, or that the story's set in '60s America, or that River Song is back (again)... No, what interests me is that it's a two-part season opener! They've not done that before!
Also, if you're going all the way to a properly-alien-looking environment (i.e. one that isn't a Welsh quarry, which they've wound up using several times now), surely it'd make sense to use it as the basis for an alien planet? Just sayin'...
this week on 100 Films
3 new reviews were posted to 100 Films in a Year this week, and they were...
Daylight (1996)
Road to Rio (1947)
Sherlock Holmes Faces Death (1943)
More next Sunday.
Daylight (1996)
a fireball rips through the tunnel. It seems to destroy most cars and kill most people, except for about a dozen survivors. How are they not killed by the fireball? Well, it seems to be by the good fortune of Because We Need Some Characters. Should you ever get stuck in an exploding tunnel, pray you find yourself in a disaster movie and had been doing something mundane yet passably interesting earlier on, and you might get to survive.
Road to Rio (1947)
If you’ve seen one Road to film then you’ve a fair idea what to expect from any other: lots of comedy, a few songs, a bit of romance, as well as some general hijinks. The differences, in all of these aspects, lie in the specifics
Sherlock Holmes Faces Death (1943)
Faces Death leaves behind the proto-Bond WW2 spying of the last three films (”it can almost be viewed as the starting point of a completely new Holmes series” asserts one review I’ve read) to involve Holmes in a genuine detective mystery. The story is packed with proper deduction, which is excellent, and to top it off Watson isn’t as bumbling as he could be
More next Sunday.
Saturday, 9 October 2010
DVD Extras
Filmmaker Profile: David Arnold, Composer
An interesting featurette I wound up watching while checking my Casino Royale Blu-ray played OK. It's the closest I can claim to a "cultural experience" for the last 24 hours. Well, that and this.
An interesting featurette I wound up watching while checking my Casino Royale Blu-ray played OK. It's the closest I can claim to a "cultural experience" for the last 24 hours. Well, that and this.
Magazines
Radio Times 9-15 October 2010
I read the last bit of this today. It's the closest I can claim to a "cultural experience" for the last 24 hours. Well, that and this.
I read the last bit of this today. It's the closest I can claim to a "cultural experience" for the last 24 hours. Well, that and this.
Friday, 8 October 2010
TV
Ask Rhod Gilbert
1x02 Episode 2
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Rosslyn Chapel: A Treasure in Stone
A decent documentary, but, having visited Rosslyn Chapel earlier this year, I'm quite aware that it left out a lot of rather interesting stuff. Shame.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
1x02 Episode 2
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Rosslyn Chapel: A Treasure in Stone
A decent documentary, but, having visited Rosslyn Chapel earlier this year, I'm quite aware that it left out a lot of rather interesting stuff. Shame.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Articles
Dan Aykroyd Writing Ghostbusters 3 Again by James White
(from Empire)
It's edging ever closer... Some seem dubious about this "new generation"/"passing the torch" idea, but honestly, by the time this is made it's going to be 30 years (more-or-less) since the original -- these guys are old now. I don't want to see them struggling to behave like they did back then. No, passing of the torch -- if done right -- is the perfect idea for a three-decades-later sequel.
Peter Jackson Talks The Hobbit by Tom Ambrose
(from Empire)
After all the rumours this week, PJ himself clarifies: it's not greenlit yet (and no announcement is imminent) and he's not the director (yet). No confirmation or denial of that disappointing 3D business though...
(from Empire)
It's edging ever closer... Some seem dubious about this "new generation"/"passing the torch" idea, but honestly, by the time this is made it's going to be 30 years (more-or-less) since the original -- these guys are old now. I don't want to see them struggling to behave like they did back then. No, passing of the torch -- if done right -- is the perfect idea for a three-decades-later sequel.
Peter Jackson Talks The Hobbit by Tom Ambrose
(from Empire)
After all the rumours this week, PJ himself clarifies: it's not greenlit yet (and no announcement is imminent) and he's not the director (yet). No confirmation or denial of that disappointing 3D business though...
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
A nice big pile of post this week, although it's less numbers-boosting than numbers-rearranging. There's one DVD set that replaces several individual releases, and most are DVD-to-BD upgrades... except in several instances I'm hanging onto the DVDs (for now at least). Why keep a DVD when I've got the BD? Various reasons, including additional extras and, in one case, a different cut of the main feature that's sadly missing from the BD.
If you're interested, the following stats account for 9 new titles this week. That the "titles" figure only goes up 1 shows the scale of re-ordering.
Number of titles in collection: 1,221 [up 1]
Of which DVDs: 1,100 [down 5]
Of which Blu-rays: 121 [up 6]
Number of discs in collection: 2,996 [up 17]
Number of films in collection: 1,291 [up 8]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 4,221 [up 26]
Statistic of the week is having a break due to my busy schedule (not all down to ordering-and-listing DVDs).
See you next week, faithful reader.
A nice big pile of post this week, although it's less numbers-boosting than numbers-rearranging. There's one DVD set that replaces several individual releases, and most are DVD-to-BD upgrades... except in several instances I'm hanging onto the DVDs (for now at least). Why keep a DVD when I've got the BD? Various reasons, including additional extras and, in one case, a different cut of the main feature that's sadly missing from the BD.
If you're interested, the following stats account for 9 new titles this week. That the "titles" figure only goes up 1 shows the scale of re-ordering.
Number of titles in collection: 1,221 [up 1]
Of which DVDs: 1,100 [down 5]
Of which Blu-rays: 121 [up 6]
Number of discs in collection: 2,996 [up 17]
Number of films in collection: 1,291 [up 8]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 4,221 [up 26]
Statistic of the week is having a break due to my busy schedule (not all down to ordering-and-listing DVDs).
See you next week, faithful reader.
Thursday, 7 October 2010
TV
8 Out of 10 Cats
10x06 (1/10/10 edition)
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
The People's Detective
Part 6 Poirot/Sherlock [final episode]
ITV3 are doing a poll to find which of their regularly-shown 12 detectives is the people's favourite. I'm not bothered by that myself, but I do like Holmes and Poirot, hence why I bothered to catch this one part of the series profiling all the candidates.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
10x06 (1/10/10 edition)
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
The People's Detective
Part 6 Poirot/Sherlock [final episode]
ITV3 are doing a poll to find which of their regularly-shown 12 detectives is the people's favourite. I'm not bothered by that myself, but I do like Holmes and Poirot, hence why I bothered to catch this one part of the series profiling all the candidates.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Wednesday, 6 October 2010
TV
Argumental
3x07 (28/9/10 edition)
Argumental's back! Obviously; but also: yay!
Story of England
Part 2 Domesday to Magna Carta
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
3x07 (28/9/10 edition)
Argumental's back! Obviously; but also: yay!
Story of England
Part 2 Domesday to Magna Carta
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Tuesday, 5 October 2010
TV
Mad Men
4x04 The Rejected
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow
2x03 Blackpool
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
4x04 The Rejected
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow
2x03 Blackpool
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Articles
[Doctor Who] Nintendo Games Update by Chuck Foster
(from Doctor Who News Page)
Well those don't look at all rubbish.
(from Doctor Who News Page)
Well those don't look at all rubbish.
Monday, 4 October 2010
TV
Spooks
9x02 Episode 2
I actually laughed out loud at this episode a couple of times. The plot itself was fine, more-or-less, but the abundance of implausible scenes (the Nigerian bloke just confronts Lucas in the street and demands he hands over the poison? And Lucas isn't all "actually, I'm an agent of the secret service, so how about I just hold onto these and report you for attempted murder" etc? Or the ending, where the Nigerian blokey describes the target as "a white man, long black coat, carrying a bag" -- oh, yes, cos they're so rare at expensive golf clubs! The assassin will definitely get the right man) and horribly clichéd dialogue (I was saying lines out loud before the characters could) was, literally, laughable. Must try harder, Spooks.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Whites
1x01 Episode 1
This, on the other hand, I enjoyed very much. Most amusing. Jolly good show. Etc. But why can't programmes have episode titles these days? I miss episode titles.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
9x02 Episode 2
I actually laughed out loud at this episode a couple of times. The plot itself was fine, more-or-less, but the abundance of implausible scenes (the Nigerian bloke just confronts Lucas in the street and demands he hands over the poison? And Lucas isn't all "actually, I'm an agent of the secret service, so how about I just hold onto these and report you for attempted murder" etc? Or the ending, where the Nigerian blokey describes the target as "a white man, long black coat, carrying a bag" -- oh, yes, cos they're so rare at expensive golf clubs! The assassin will definitely get the right man) and horribly clichéd dialogue (I was saying lines out loud before the characters could) was, literally, laughable. Must try harder, Spooks.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Whites
1x01 Episode 1
This, on the other hand, I enjoyed very much. Most amusing. Jolly good show. Etc. But why can't programmes have episode titles these days? I miss episode titles.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Articles
Affleck 'was Nolan's choice for Superman' by Simon Reynolds
(from Digital Spy)
Ben Affleck as Superman? Really?
No. Nolan wanted him to direct. Yup, really.
Zack Snyder Will Direct Superman by Russ Fischer
(from /Film)
And here's the just-revealed actual choice, apparently. Not who I'd've expected -- he actually has a track record for this kind of film, whereas studios tend to choose initially-surprising directors for their big comic book films (look at the pre-superhero-movie careers of, say, Tim Burton, Bryan Singer, Sam Raimi and Chris Nolan).
(from Digital Spy)
Ben Affleck as Superman? Really?
No. Nolan wanted him to direct. Yup, really.
Zack Snyder Will Direct Superman by Russ Fischer
(from /Film)
And here's the just-revealed actual choice, apparently. Not who I'd've expected -- he actually has a track record for this kind of film, whereas studios tend to choose initially-surprising directors for their big comic book films (look at the pre-superhero-movie careers of, say, Tim Burton, Bryan Singer, Sam Raimi and Chris Nolan).
Sunday, 3 October 2010
TV
Downton Abbey
1x02 Episode Two
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
QI
8x03 Hoaxes (extended repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
1x02 Episode Two
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
QI
8x03 Hoaxes (extended repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Films
The Emperor's New Groove (2000)
[#102 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
Road to Rio (1947)
[#101 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
[#102 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
Road to Rio (1947)
[#101 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
this week on 100 Films
Just 1 new review was posted to 100 Films in a Year this week...
Angels & Demons: Extended Version (2009)
I seem to have been too busy watching films to post much about them this week, but there is at least the September update, discussing how I've reached 100. Yay!
More next Sunday. Hopefully.
Angels & Demons: Extended Version (2009)
This version is 7½ minutes longer than the theatrical version... There are changes, but most are barely noticeable. While watching I wondered if the violence had been extended (I was right), and there was one line I found particularly funny which I thought I’d've remembered (indeed, it’s new), but other than that if you’d told me this was the cut I watched in cinemas I’d believe you.
I seem to have been too busy watching films to post much about them this week, but there is at least the September update, discussing how I've reached 100. Yay!
More next Sunday. Hopefully.
Saturday, 2 October 2010
TV
Merlin
3x04 Gwaine
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Persuaders!
1x21 A Death in the Family
In tribute to Tony Curtis, who sadly passed away a few days ago, I watched the only episode of this series that I have on DVD (part of the ITC 50 collection. And great fun it was too. I think I might buy the whole series.
3x04 Gwaine
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Persuaders!
1x21 A Death in the Family
In tribute to Tony Curtis, who sadly passed away a few days ago, I watched the only episode of this series that I have on DVD (part of the ITC 50 collection. And great fun it was too. I think I might buy the whole series.
Films
Angels & Demons: Extended Version (2009)
[#100b in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
You may recall I've seen Angels & Demons before, but this is the Blu-ray extended cut. It's around 8 minutes longer, but I can't say I noticed any of the changes, hence why it doesn't get a new number.
[#100b in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
You may recall I've seen Angels & Demons before, but this is the Blu-ray extended cut. It's around 8 minutes longer, but I can't say I noticed any of the changes, hence why it doesn't get a new number.
Friday, 1 October 2010
TV
8 Out of 10 Cats
10x05 (24/9/10 edition)
I suppose it's not that good a sign when you watch a comedy show and are surprised by how funny it is. But yes, good edition this (well, last) week, chaps.
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Cheetah Kingdom
1x03 Episode 3
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
How I Met Your Mother
5x19 Zoo or False
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Law & Order: UK
3x04 Confession
L&O has more than its fair share of clichéd dialogue and general predictability
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Mock the Week
9x10 (30/9/10 edition)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
10x05 (24/9/10 edition)
I suppose it's not that good a sign when you watch a comedy show and are surprised by how funny it is. But yes, good edition this (well, last) week, chaps.
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Cheetah Kingdom
1x03 Episode 3
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
How I Met Your Mother
5x19 Zoo or False
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Law & Order: UK
3x04 Confession
L&O has more than its fair share of clichéd dialogue and general predictability
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Mock the Week
9x10 (30/9/10 edition)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Films
Tales of the Black Freighter (2009)
[#100a in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
Watchmen's comic-within-a-comic becomes a... cartoon-within-a-film... Yeah, I bet it doesn't work as well as the original in context. Standalone, it's OK.
[#100a in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
Watchmen's comic-within-a-comic becomes a... cartoon-within-a-film... Yeah, I bet it doesn't work as well as the original in context. Standalone, it's OK.
Articles
Bon anniversaire! 25 facts about Les Mis by Tim Masters
(from BBC News)
Start at the top and work your way down by Roger Ebert
(from Roger Ebert's Journal)
The introduction to Ebert's new book (available on his blog; the introduction, that is, though I'm sure you can order the book there too). He's always worth a read, particularly when he's being evangelical about the wonders of film, but one bit in particular caught my attention -- because it's all truth:
(from BBC News)
To mark the Silver Jubilee, here are 25 facts about the world's longest-running musical
Start at the top and work your way down by Roger Ebert
(from Roger Ebert's Journal)
The introduction to Ebert's new book (available on his blog; the introduction, that is, though I'm sure you can order the book there too). He's always worth a read, particularly when he's being evangelical about the wonders of film, but one bit in particular caught my attention -- because it's all truth:
I ruffled some feathers after Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen was released... It was so stupid it was almost criminal. Noting that some of its fans considered it one of the greatest films ever made, I suggested perhaps they were not "sufficiently evolved." Oh, did that make people angry. What snobbery! Who did I think I was?Have to agree with Ebert on this one: 'T2RF' was an unentertaining mess (and, note, I really enjoyed the first live-action Transformers film). Personally, I think it's perfectly correct to wonder if those who truly think the second is a great film are sufficiently evolved.
I was indeed a snob, if you agree with this definition: "A person who believes that their tastes in a particular area are superior to those of other people." I do believe that. Not superior to all other people, but to some, most probably including those who think Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen is a great film. That is not simply ego on my part. It is a faith that after writing and teaching about films for more than 40 years, my tastes are more evolved than those of a fanboy... to argue I am a snob for not liking T2RF as much as "everybody does" devalues thought and experience.
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
Absolutely nothing new this week. Which is a shame, because I have several releases out on Monday on pre-order and they're usually here by today. Ho hum.
Number of titles in collection: 1,220 [no change]
Of which DVDs: 1,105 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 115 [no change]
Number of discs in collection: 2,979 [no change]
Number of films in collection: 1,283 [no change]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 4,195 [no change]
Statistic of the week:
Number of titles rated PG:
219
(17.95% of the total)
It's been a little while since I've done a stat on classifications -- the previous ones were Us, 15s, 18s and unrated titles -- so it's as good a time as any to continue. PGs are currently my second-largest group, behind 15s (by quite some way, actually).
See you next week, faithful reader.
Absolutely nothing new this week. Which is a shame, because I have several releases out on Monday on pre-order and they're usually here by today. Ho hum.
Number of titles in collection: 1,220 [no change]
Of which DVDs: 1,105 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 115 [no change]
Number of discs in collection: 2,979 [no change]
Number of films in collection: 1,283 [no change]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 4,195 [no change]
Statistic of the week:
Number of titles rated PG:
219
(17.95% of the total)
It's been a little while since I've done a stat on classifications -- the previous ones were Us, 15s, 18s and unrated titles -- so it's as good a time as any to continue. PGs are currently my second-largest group, behind 15s (by quite some way, actually).
See you next week, faithful reader.
Thursday, 30 September 2010
Wednesday, 29 September 2010
TV
Story of England
Part 1 Romans to Normans
Or Michael Wood's Story of England, as everywhere except the programme itself calls it. It's an interesting idea -- the whole of English history presented via the microcosm of one (well, three, technically) village -- but I'm not yet convinced of how well it works as a format for genuinely looking at history.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Part 1 Romans to Normans
Or Michael Wood's Story of England, as everywhere except the programme itself calls it. It's an interesting idea -- the whole of English history presented via the microcosm of one (well, three, technically) village -- but I'm not yet convinced of how well it works as a format for genuinely looking at history.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Films
The Hurt Locker (2009)
[#100 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
Yep, 100! Hurrah!
Now, my previous best was 129...
[#100 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
Yep, 100! Hurrah!
Now, my previous best was 129...
Music
The Social Network: Five Track Sampler by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross
Being (a sampler of) the soundtrack to David Fincher's new film. I liked it, though not sure if I liked it enough to buy the whole thing. Though having it in 5.1 on Blu-ray is appealing...
You can download the sampler, or pre-order from a choice of four formats, here. Not sure if the ordering bit is available outside the US, but the sampler is.
Being (a sampler of) the soundtrack to David Fincher's new film. I liked it, though not sure if I liked it enough to buy the whole thing. Though having it in 5.1 on Blu-ray is appealing...
You can download the sampler, or pre-order from a choice of four formats, here. Not sure if the ordering bit is available outside the US, but the sampler is.
Articles
Hearing Voices by Clayton Hickman & Benjamin Cook
(from Doctor Who Magazine #426, p.18-24)
A surprisingly candid interview with Nick Briggs, voice of the Daleks, Cybermen, Judoon and so on in the revived Doctor Who. It seems to suggest that the super-lovely-dovely behind-the-scenes world of nuWho that we're usually presented with isn't quite the truth -- as many have suspected, I'm sure.
As time rolls on we're sure to see more interviews that reveal more of the nasty (or, at lease, less-perfect) truth about what it was like to work on the show -- it certainly happened with the classic series. Personally, I'm quite looking forward to those.
Remembering 7 Quintessential Clips From the Quentin Tarantino/Sally Menke Canon by S.T. Vanairsdale
(from Movie|Line)
Following the sad news of Sally Menke's death, this is the most appropriate way to pay tribute: a selection of the excellent sequences that she should be best remembered for.
(from Doctor Who Magazine #426, p.18-24)
A surprisingly candid interview with Nick Briggs, voice of the Daleks, Cybermen, Judoon and so on in the revived Doctor Who. It seems to suggest that the super-lovely-dovely behind-the-scenes world of nuWho that we're usually presented with isn't quite the truth -- as many have suspected, I'm sure.
As time rolls on we're sure to see more interviews that reveal more of the nasty (or, at lease, less-perfect) truth about what it was like to work on the show -- it certainly happened with the classic series. Personally, I'm quite looking forward to those.
Remembering 7 Quintessential Clips From the Quentin Tarantino/Sally Menke Canon by S.T. Vanairsdale
(from Movie|Line)
Following the sad news of Sally Menke's death, this is the most appropriate way to pay tribute: a selection of the excellent sequences that she should be best remembered for.
Tuesday, 28 September 2010
TV
Mad Men
4x03 The Good News
Words fail me for how good this was -- particularly Don and Lane's night out, and especially the scene in the cinema. Hilarious.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
4x03 The Good News
Words fail me for how good this was -- particularly Don and Lane's night out, and especially the scene in the cinema. Hilarious.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Articles
Jared Harris to Play Moriarty in Sherlock Holmes 2 by Matt Goldberg
(from Collider)
Following the announcement of Stephen Fry as Mycroft, this is another great bit of casting. Such a notion hadn't occurred to me -- in part because they were bandying around Big Star Names for the role -- but Harris could fit it like a glove. He's an excellent actor, as much as anything. Can't wait.
Virgin Media brings 3D TV to UK living rooms
(from Virgin Media Press Office)
And there's nothing worth watching on it! It looks to be, quite literally, one film a month, and they're all pretty poor. I suppose no one will notice -- hardly anyone has a 3D TV, and I bet those that do have got Sky for their 3D channel.
(from Collider)
Following the announcement of Stephen Fry as Mycroft, this is another great bit of casting. Such a notion hadn't occurred to me -- in part because they were bandying around Big Star Names for the role -- but Harris could fit it like a glove. He's an excellent actor, as much as anything. Can't wait.
Virgin Media brings 3D TV to UK living rooms
(from Virgin Media Press Office)
And there's nothing worth watching on it! It looks to be, quite literally, one film a month, and they're all pretty poor. I suppose no one will notice -- hardly anyone has a 3D TV, and I bet those that do have got Sky for their 3D channel.
Monday, 27 September 2010
TV
Law & Order: UK
3x03 Defence
Another strong and thought-provoking episode, though it might be nice to have an uncompromised happy ending sometime, just for once.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
The Rob Brydon Show
1x02 (24/9/10 edition)
No, I didn't forget to mention episode one, I just missed it because it wasn't put on Virgin's version of iPlayer (I have downloaded it though, so just need to get round to watching it now).
As for this edition... well, I like the programme in general, but it also confirmed that Mark Ronson is still irritating and largely devoid of discernible talent.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
3x03 Defence
Another strong and thought-provoking episode, though it might be nice to have an uncompromised happy ending sometime, just for once.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
The Rob Brydon Show
1x02 (24/9/10 edition)
No, I didn't forget to mention episode one, I just missed it because it wasn't put on Virgin's version of iPlayer (I have downloaded it though, so just need to get round to watching it now).
As for this edition... well, I like the programme in general, but it also confirmed that Mark Ronson is still irritating and largely devoid of discernible talent.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Articles
Colin Baker: 'I'll never forget Doctor Who' by Justin Harp
(from Digital Spy)
Going Up River: Inside Apocalypse Now by Bill Hunt
(from The Digital Bits)
An interview with four of the people involved in the Blu-ray release of Apocalypse Now, which is out in a couple of weeks in the US (not seen a UK date mentioned yet). Page 1 is mainly about the remastering of the feature, while page 2 covers the extras, old & new. Interesting details for those who are interested.
SFX Whedon Special Previews by Dave Golder (from SFX)
Exploring Book’s Backstory
and
Serenity 2 Painful To Think About, Says Joss
and
Ripper
SFX have a Joss Whedon-centric special out this Thursday, and their website is currently littered with previews of it. Here are the three that interested me most: some details on the next Firefly/Serenity graphic novel, which finally explores the mystery of Shepherd Book; Joss' thoughts on a Serenity sequel; and Anthony Head on the proposed British Buffy spin-off, Ripper, and why it still hasn't happened.
(from Digital Spy)
"I've enjoyed immensely watching it [since the revival]. However when I left, the ratings were exactly the same, 5 to 6 million, as they are now... I know the television landscape has changed but it's ironic nonetheless."
Going Up River: Inside Apocalypse Now by Bill Hunt
(from The Digital Bits)
An interview with four of the people involved in the Blu-ray release of Apocalypse Now, which is out in a couple of weeks in the US (not seen a UK date mentioned yet). Page 1 is mainly about the remastering of the feature, while page 2 covers the extras, old & new. Interesting details for those who are interested.
SFX Whedon Special Previews by Dave Golder (from SFX)
Exploring Book’s Backstory
and
Serenity 2 Painful To Think About, Says Joss
and
Ripper
SFX have a Joss Whedon-centric special out this Thursday, and their website is currently littered with previews of it. Here are the three that interested me most: some details on the next Firefly/Serenity graphic novel, which finally explores the mystery of Shepherd Book; Joss' thoughts on a Serenity sequel; and Anthony Head on the proposed British Buffy spin-off, Ripper, and why it still hasn't happened.
Sunday, 26 September 2010
TV
Downton Abbey
1x01 Episode One
Rather good, that, as you'd expect from writer/creator Julian Fellowes and such a talented cast, really. The only mystery is what it's doing on ITV -- surely such classy material is the domain of BBC One?
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
QI
8x02 H Anatomy (extended repeat)
"H Anatomy"?! When Fry begins the episode with a list of parts of the anatomy that begin with H -- hands, head, heart, etc etc -- one wonders why it couldn't've been named after those instead.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
1x01 Episode One
Rather good, that, as you'd expect from writer/creator Julian Fellowes and such a talented cast, really. The only mystery is what it's doing on ITV -- surely such classy material is the domain of BBC One?
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
QI
8x02 H Anatomy (extended repeat)
"H Anatomy"?! When Fry begins the episode with a list of parts of the anatomy that begin with H -- hands, head, heart, etc etc -- one wonders why it couldn't've been named after those instead.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Articles
Muse beat The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Johnny Cash to win best cover song of all time
(from NME)
Don't disagree with the winner -- or with Mark Ronson featuring in any "worst of" list -- but more interesting are some of these covers I didn't even know existed. Ronan Keating doing Fairytale of New York? Take That's take on Smells Like Teen Spirit? I have to hear these...
Stephen Fry to play Mycroft in Sherlock 2 by Simon Reynolds
(from Digital Spy)
The Guy Ritchie Sherlock Holmes sequel, that is, not the second series of Sherlock. Tsk.
With further apologies to Mr Gatiss, then, I'll say that this is rather perfect casting. Though I still want to see a Fry/Laurie Holmes/Watson at some point, please.
(from NME)
Don't disagree with the winner -- or with Mark Ronson featuring in any "worst of" list -- but more interesting are some of these covers I didn't even know existed. Ronan Keating doing Fairytale of New York? Take That's take on Smells Like Teen Spirit? I have to hear these...
Stephen Fry to play Mycroft in Sherlock 2 by Simon Reynolds
(from Digital Spy)
The Guy Ritchie Sherlock Holmes sequel, that is, not the second series of Sherlock. Tsk.
With further apologies to Mr Gatiss, then, I'll say that this is rather perfect casting. Though I still want to see a Fry/Laurie Holmes/Watson at some point, please.
The Walking Dead: brilliant fan-made opening credits
I'm somewhat excited for the forthcoming TV adaptation of Robert Kirkman and Tony Moore's zombie comic The Walking Dead -- I've never read any of it, nor followed news of the TV version particularly closely, but the comic's meant to be good and there are good people involved in the TV production.
This opening credit sequence was made by a fan -- to stress the point, they're not what we'll be seeing on screen when the series airs -- but they're rather cool, undoubtedly to a professional standard (unlike the vast majority of fan-produced videos, of course) and, I suspect, unlikely to be topped by the final sequence.
Which is a shame, because they've actually made me even more interested.
This opening credit sequence was made by a fan -- to stress the point, they're not what we'll be seeing on screen when the series airs -- but they're rather cool, undoubtedly to a professional standard (unlike the vast majority of fan-produced videos, of course) and, I suspect, unlikely to be topped by the final sequence.
Which is a shame, because they've actually made me even more interested.
this week on 100 Films
2 new feature-film reviews were posted to 100 Films in a Year this week, and they were...
Night at the Museum (2006)
Ocean's Eleven (1960)
Also this week, a review of a short film...
The Met Ball (2010)
More next Sunday.
Night at the Museum (2006)
everything in said museum comes alive at night. This results in largely comical hi-jinx. These are fine — the easily-impressed will love it, the highly cynical will probably despise it, and the rest of us can sit in the middle, being adequately entertained while the film plays but require nothing else from it ever again.
Ocean's Eleven (1960)
It does have its moments [but] this would definitely be for Rat Pack fans only had it not been for the remake… and, really, there’s no reason the remake should change that.
Also this week, a review of a short film...
The Met Ball (2010)
Culled from footage shot while making The September Issue, The Met Ball clearly had no place in the finished film but does work as a piece in its own right... The interest for us normal, sensible folk lies in what it exposes about the fashion world; the ludicrous lengths they go to, the shockingly inflated sense of self importance.
More next Sunday.
Saturday, 25 September 2010
TV
Grand Designs
10x02 Cotswolds: The Stealth House
I have often seen parts of Grand Designs -- mostly the ending -- but not usually enough to make it worth a mention. But this episode promised something unusual: an 'invisible' house, built underground below a barn that couldn't be demolished. It didn't live up to all expectations -- it was quite thoroughly visible on one side -- but the stuff with building under the barn was rather nifty.
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
How I Met Your Mother
5x18 Say Cheese
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Merlin
3x03 Goblin's Gold
Considering how daft and puerile this looked, I thought it was a largely entertaining episode. Nice to have a bit of lightness after the very heavy opener.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow
2x02 Sunderland
I would say it was a particularly good episode, but every episode seems to be particularly good. Which is nice, because 'undiscovered' stand-ups -- as Russell Howard's series proved week-in-week-out -- can be bloody awful.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
10x02 Cotswolds: The Stealth House
I have often seen parts of Grand Designs -- mostly the ending -- but not usually enough to make it worth a mention. But this episode promised something unusual: an 'invisible' house, built underground below a barn that couldn't be demolished. It didn't live up to all expectations -- it was quite thoroughly visible on one side -- but the stuff with building under the barn was rather nifty.
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
How I Met Your Mother
5x18 Say Cheese
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Merlin
3x03 Goblin's Gold
Considering how daft and puerile this looked, I thought it was a largely entertaining episode. Nice to have a bit of lightness after the very heavy opener.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow
2x02 Sunderland
I would say it was a particularly good episode, but every episode seems to be particularly good. Which is nice, because 'undiscovered' stand-ups -- as Russell Howard's series proved week-in-week-out -- can be bloody awful.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Articles
Moffat On The Doctor Who Christmas Special And Season Six by Dave Golder
(from SFX)
Title says it all. Just a couple of snippets, hints and teases, mind, nothing astoundingly huge or new.
(from SFX)
Title says it all. Just a couple of snippets, hints and teases, mind, nothing astoundingly huge or new.
Friday, 24 September 2010
TV
Dragons' Den
What Happened Next 2 Duncan Bannatyne
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Gareth Malone's Extraordinary School for Boys
Part 2 (of 3)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Review Show
03/09/2010 edition
...though, if I'm honest, not all of it -- just the bits covering Tamara Drewe, Jonah Hex and CLiNT, and half of This is England '86 (before I got bored of it, having not seen the film or the series).
What Happened Next 2 Duncan Bannatyne
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Gareth Malone's Extraordinary School for Boys
Part 2 (of 3)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Review Show
03/09/2010 edition
...though, if I'm honest, not all of it -- just the bits covering Tamara Drewe, Jonah Hex and CLiNT, and half of This is England '86 (before I got bored of it, having not seen the film or the series).
Articles
How To Reboot Resident Evil by Nathan Ditum
(from Total Film)
This whole article is worth reading just for the comments form "CthuluGonnaCall.com" on page 10. I laughed probably more than it deserved. Also amusing: page 13 on, where the article switches from "largely plausible (if fans were extraordinarily lucky)" to "not gonna happen. Ever."
(from Total Film)
This whole article is worth reading just for the comments form "CthuluGonnaCall.com" on page 10. I laughed probably more than it deserved. Also amusing: page 13 on, where the article switches from "largely plausible (if fans were extraordinarily lucky)" to "not gonna happen. Ever."
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
This week, a few new Blu-rays give a little boost to the numbers. One is technically a DVD upgrade -- Psycho -- but as I own the DVD in a box set it won't be going anywhere. (Plus I think the DVD still has some special features that aren't on the BD, so...)
Another is... well, also a DVD upgrade, actually -- the wondrous Firefly. Somehow, they've stuffed the entire series into one of those slim US Blu-ray cases -- if/when I buy Serenity on (UK) Blu-ray, it'll be in a bigger box than the whole of the TV series. That's madness. Anyway, at the minute I'm keeping hold of the DVD for it's proper-sized, shiny-slipcased, nostalgia-filled loveliness, so Firefly just increases numbers rather than replacing them.
Number of titles in collection: 1,220 [up 4]
Of which DVDs: 1,105 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 115 [up 4]
Number of discs in collection: 2,979 [up 6]
Number of films in collection: 1,284 [up 3]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 4,195 [up 14]
Statistic of the week:
Total running time of collection (approx.):
209 days, 17 hours, and 49 minutes.
(Up 1 day, 20 hours, and 21 minutes from last month.)
See you next week, faithful reader.
This week, a few new Blu-rays give a little boost to the numbers. One is technically a DVD upgrade -- Psycho -- but as I own the DVD in a box set it won't be going anywhere. (Plus I think the DVD still has some special features that aren't on the BD, so...)
Another is... well, also a DVD upgrade, actually -- the wondrous Firefly. Somehow, they've stuffed the entire series into one of those slim US Blu-ray cases -- if/when I buy Serenity on (UK) Blu-ray, it'll be in a bigger box than the whole of the TV series. That's madness. Anyway, at the minute I'm keeping hold of the DVD for it's proper-sized, shiny-slipcased, nostalgia-filled loveliness, so Firefly just increases numbers rather than replacing them.
Number of titles in collection: 1,220 [up 4]
Of which DVDs: 1,105 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 115 [up 4]
Number of discs in collection: 2,979 [up 6]
Number of films in collection: 1,284 [up 3]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 4,195 [up 14]
Statistic of the week:
Total running time of collection (approx.):
209 days, 17 hours, and 49 minutes.
(Up 1 day, 20 hours, and 21 minutes from last month.)
See you next week, faithful reader.
Thursday, 23 September 2010
TV
Family Guy
8x20 Something, Something, Something, Dark Side [season finale]
Having spoofed A New Hope (which, as I noted before, I watched before this blog began), the Family Guy team latterly turned their attention to The Empire Strikes Back. It's as hit-and-miss as you might expect, effectively retelling Empire with a bunch of non sequiturs and humorous criticisms thrown in.
The Family Guy version of Return of the Jedi, titled It's a Trap!, is due later this year. Wonder if they'll do the prequels...
Mock the Week
9x09 (23/9/10 edition)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The South Bank Show
37x01 Andrew Lloyd Webber Revisited
aka The South Bank Show Revisited for the series' final run of ten programmes, which all (unsurprisingly) revisited past subjects. It aired back in March/April/May and I've had half of them on my V+ box ever since. About time I got round to them, I thought. So, um, I am...
8x20 Something, Something, Something, Dark Side [season finale]
Having spoofed A New Hope (which, as I noted before, I watched before this blog began), the Family Guy team latterly turned their attention to The Empire Strikes Back. It's as hit-and-miss as you might expect, effectively retelling Empire with a bunch of non sequiturs and humorous criticisms thrown in.
The Family Guy version of Return of the Jedi, titled It's a Trap!, is due later this year. Wonder if they'll do the prequels...
Mock the Week
9x09 (23/9/10 edition)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The South Bank Show
37x01 Andrew Lloyd Webber Revisited
aka The South Bank Show Revisited for the series' final run of ten programmes, which all (unsurprisingly) revisited past subjects. It aired back in March/April/May and I've had half of them on my V+ box ever since. About time I got round to them, I thought. So, um, I am...
Articles
The 33 Greatest Movie Trilogies by Helen O'Hara, Ian Freer & Alastair Plumb
(from Empire)
It's an odd list in places, which is what happens when you ask The Public, but not an uninteresting one.
A knock on Betjeman’s door by David Allen Green
(from The Staggers at New Statesman)
(from Empire)
It's an odd list in places, which is what happens when you ask The Public, but not an uninteresting one.
A knock on Betjeman’s door by David Allen Green
(from The Staggers at New Statesman)
Why the CPS prosecution of Paul Chambers matters.aka #TwitterJokeTrial. The appeal is tomorrow. And it really does matter.
Wednesday, 22 September 2010
TV
Law & Order: UK
3x02 Hounded
A rather good episode, I thought -- yes, it succumbed to 'justice' at the end, but it was never definitively cleared up who committed the central crime (though I'm sure some more simplistic viewers assumed it was by dint of what occurred in the end).
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Mad Men
4x02 Christmas Comes But Once a Year
Aww, poor Don's Secretary (Whose Name I Don't Even Know).
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
3x02 Hounded
A rather good episode, I thought -- yes, it succumbed to 'justice' at the end, but it was never definitively cleared up who committed the central crime (though I'm sure some more simplistic viewers assumed it was by dint of what occurred in the end).
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Mad Men
4x02 Christmas Comes But Once a Year
Aww, poor Don's Secretary (Whose Name I Don't Even Know).
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Films
It Happened Here (1965)
[#98 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
Plus the extras, including a US trailer that cost more than the film itself(!) and an extended newsreel, in which the production team faked footage of a tank driving by filming it being transported backwards with the camera upside-down, then turning the film the other way up. Don't get much of that sort of ingenuity these days.
[#98 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
Plus the extras, including a US trailer that cost more than the film itself(!) and an extended newsreel, in which the production team faked footage of a tank driving by filming it being transported backwards with the camera upside-down, then turning the film the other way up. Don't get much of that sort of ingenuity these days.
Tuesday, 21 September 2010
TV
Cheetah Kingdom
1x02 Episode 2
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Spooks
9x01 Episode 1
They're back! It's all a bit daft now! Some things will never change, I suspect. Until they cancel it, naturally.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
1x02 Episode 2
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Spooks
9x01 Episode 1
They're back! It's all a bit daft now! Some things will never change, I suspect. Until they cancel it, naturally.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Articles
Traffic wardens 'advised to issue illegal tickets' by Liz Webb
(from the Express & Echo, via this is Exeter)
I always knew they were a shifty, untrustworthy, immoral lot 'round here. And 'round most places, I suspect.
(from the Express & Echo, via this is Exeter)
I always knew they were a shifty, untrustworthy, immoral lot 'round here. And 'round most places, I suspect.
Monday, 20 September 2010
TV
8 Out of 10 Cats
10x04 (17/9/10 edition)
I think I missed the last series or two of this, largely because it had become thoroughly rubbish. Either I've recuperated or it's improved. (Incidentally, I swear the Radio Times billed this as the first of a new series, while C4 insist it's episode four. That said, episode one was on in June, episode two was a Big Brother special, and episode three doesn't exist, so what do they know?)
This episode, they seem to be going a bit QI: it's series 10 -- or, in QI World, J -- and the guests appearing alongside regulars Jimmy Carr and Jason Manford are Jack Dee, Jack Whitehall, Dr Christian Jessen and Jamelia. Suspicious.
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
10x04 (17/9/10 edition)
I think I missed the last series or two of this, largely because it had become thoroughly rubbish. Either I've recuperated or it's improved. (Incidentally, I swear the Radio Times billed this as the first of a new series, while C4 insist it's episode four. That said, episode one was on in June, episode two was a Big Brother special, and episode three doesn't exist, so what do they know?)
This episode, they seem to be going a bit QI: it's series 10 -- or, in QI World, J -- and the guests appearing alongside regulars Jimmy Carr and Jason Manford are Jack Dee, Jack Whitehall, Dr Christian Jessen and Jamelia. Suspicious.
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Articles
Doctor Who: Adventure Games to return by Matthew Reynolds
(from Digital Spy)
Well, I hope they make them better next time!
In fairness, I've still only played the first one. I know I forgot to leave comments -- suffice to say, I didn't like it (repetitive, old-fashioned, full of soul-sapping 'stealth' segments rather than intelligence-requiring point-n-click style adventuring like proper 'adventure games'). Maybe games two and three improve it? I ought to find out. I'm not optimistic.
And, based on the comment that "the feedback we've had has been overwhelmingly positive", I don't expect we'll see an improvement in quality any time soon.
Top 10 'unanswerable' questions revealed
(from BBC News)
This list is funny, because it starts out profound ("What is the meaning of life?"), continues to be stereotypical ("Do blondes have more fun?"), and then gets specific with something you might assume was answerable but isn't (#9). Well, it made me chuckle.
(from Digital Spy)
Well, I hope they make them better next time!
In fairness, I've still only played the first one. I know I forgot to leave comments -- suffice to say, I didn't like it (repetitive, old-fashioned, full of soul-sapping 'stealth' segments rather than intelligence-requiring point-n-click style adventuring like proper 'adventure games'). Maybe games two and three improve it? I ought to find out. I'm not optimistic.
And, based on the comment that "the feedback we've had has been overwhelmingly positive", I don't expect we'll see an improvement in quality any time soon.
Top 10 'unanswerable' questions revealed
(from BBC News)
This list is funny, because it starts out profound ("What is the meaning of life?"), continues to be stereotypical ("Do blondes have more fun?"), and then gets specific with something you might assume was answerable but isn't (#9). Well, it made me chuckle.
Sunday, 19 September 2010
TV
Dragons' Den
What Happened Next 1 Peter Jones
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow
2x01 Glasgow
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
What Happened Next 1 Peter Jones
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow
2x01 Glasgow
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Articles
The Devin's Advocate: Why Breaking Dawn Must Be Made Into A Movie by Devin Faraci
(from CHUD.com)
I read this a while ago and think I forgot to mention it. It sounds like it could make the whole Twilight franchise worthwhile. Almost. Maybe.
(from CHUD.com)
I read this a while ago and think I forgot to mention it. It sounds like it could make the whole Twilight franchise worthwhile. Almost. Maybe.
this week on 100 Films
2 new reviews were posted to 100 Films in a Year this week, and they were...
Ministry of Fear (1944)
Robin Hood: Director's Cut (2010)
More next Sunday.
Ministry of Fear (1944)
To say too much about what Ministry of Fear is actually about would ruin it, which I don’t want to do because in fact it’s a great twisty little thriller, a rather Hitchcockian ‘wrong man’ tale with a baked MacGuffin.
Robin Hood: Director's Cut (2010)
In short, the pace is off. It drags for most of the middle, waiting for something of genuine interest to occur. The climax feels slightly rushed... The Director’s Cut is 15½ minutes longer, a potentially significant chunk that could throw the whole centre of the film out of whack
More next Sunday.
Saturday, 18 September 2010
TV
Merlin
3x02 The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part 2
That's another season of Merlin over then.
Oh, that wasn't a finale? Well, it felt like one. So what's next week? Lots of farting!? Christ, did they learn nothing from Doctor Who?!
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
QI
8x01 Hodge Podge (extended repeat)
I have a feeling I missed some episodes of the last series of QI. At least, there are a couple that were never mentioned on here. To be frank, they now produce so many a year, and have a tendency to scatter them about, and drop in repeats and skip extended editions, that it's no surprise I could've missed some.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Would I Lie To You?
4x09 The Unseen Bits [season finale]
Some people seem to have become fed up with Rob Brydon's interjections and participations this series, but personally I don't mind them. And his Quick Fire Lie tonight was one of the funniest bits... even if it was thanks to the panels' responses.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
3x02 The Tears of Uther Pendragon Part 2
That's another season of Merlin over then.
Oh, that wasn't a finale? Well, it felt like one. So what's next week? Lots of farting!? Christ, did they learn nothing from Doctor Who?!
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
QI
8x01 Hodge Podge (extended repeat)
I have a feeling I missed some episodes of the last series of QI. At least, there are a couple that were never mentioned on here. To be frank, they now produce so many a year, and have a tendency to scatter them about, and drop in repeats and skip extended editions, that it's no surprise I could've missed some.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Would I Lie To You?
4x09 The Unseen Bits [season finale]
Some people seem to have become fed up with Rob Brydon's interjections and participations this series, but personally I don't mind them. And his Quick Fire Lie tonight was one of the funniest bits... even if it was thanks to the panels' responses.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Friday, 17 September 2010
TV
Cheetah Kingdom
1x01 Episode 1
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Dexter
4x12 The Getaway [season finale]
So that's that for Dexter's fourth season, complete with a shocking ending... which, unfortunately, I found out about ages ago. (I won't mention more for the sake of anyone watching the series on FX, which is up to episode five tonight.) I look forward to seeing how it's dealt with next season, which I believe starts in the US imminently.
Mock the Week
9x08 (16/9/10 edition)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
1x01 Episode 1
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Dexter
4x12 The Getaway [season finale]
So that's that for Dexter's fourth season, complete with a shocking ending... which, unfortunately, I found out about ages ago. (I won't mention more for the sake of anyone watching the series on FX, which is up to episode five tonight.) I look forward to seeing how it's dealt with next season, which I believe starts in the US imminently.
Mock the Week
9x08 (16/9/10 edition)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
This week, a Blu-ray replaces a DVD, though any evidence is wiped out by the last-minute arrival of a new Blu-ray and a new DVD. Exciting stuff, eh what?
Number of titles in collection: 1,216 [up 2]
Of which DVDs: 1,105 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 111 [up 2]
Number of discs in collection: 2,973 [up 2]
Number of films in collection: 1,281 [up 3]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 4,181 [no change]
Statistic of the week:
Number of titles produced in the '70s:
91
(7.5% of the total)
Having now counted titles produced in the '00s, '90s, '80s, and over 100 years ago, it seems reasonable to continue back into the '70s. (Based on form, you can expect the '60s in about two months.)
See you next week, faithful reader.
This week, a Blu-ray replaces a DVD, though any evidence is wiped out by the last-minute arrival of a new Blu-ray and a new DVD. Exciting stuff, eh what?
Number of titles in collection: 1,216 [up 2]
Of which DVDs: 1,105 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 111 [up 2]
Number of discs in collection: 2,973 [up 2]
Number of films in collection: 1,281 [up 3]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 4,181 [no change]
Statistic of the week:
Number of titles produced in the '70s:
91
(7.5% of the total)
Having now counted titles produced in the '00s, '90s, '80s, and over 100 years ago, it seems reasonable to continue back into the '70s. (Based on form, you can expect the '60s in about two months.)
See you next week, faithful reader.
Thursday, 16 September 2010
TV
Dexter
4x11 Hello, Dexter Morgan
Cliffhanger-tastic! Though I guessed weeks (well, "episodes", certainly -- I probably watch it too quickly for "weeks") ago who would be saying the titular line. Next time: season finale! Tense.
How I Met Your Mother
5x17 Of Course
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
4x11 Hello, Dexter Morgan
Cliffhanger-tastic! Though I guessed weeks (well, "episodes", certainly -- I probably watch it too quickly for "weeks") ago who would be saying the titular line. Next time: season finale! Tense.
How I Met Your Mother
5x17 Of Course
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Films
I'll be at 100 before I know it at this rate...
Brigadoon (1954)
[#93 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
Force of Evil (1948)
[#92 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
The History Boys (2006)
[#94 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
Brigadoon (1954)
[#93 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
Force of Evil (1948)
[#92 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
The History Boys (2006)
[#94 in 100 Films in a Year 2010]
Wednesday, 15 September 2010
TV
Dexter
4x10 Lost Boys
Grandma's House
1x06 The day Simon finally found the strength to accept that his mother was getting married [season finale]
Perhaps not Grandma's House's finest (half-)hour, but still an amusing episode. I hope we get more.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Roger & Val Have Just Got In
1x06 The Valerie Step [season finale]
An excellent final episode to an excellent series. I hope we get more.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
4x10 Lost Boys
Grandma's House
1x06 The day Simon finally found the strength to accept that his mother was getting married [season finale]
Perhaps not Grandma's House's finest (half-)hour, but still an amusing episode. I hope we get more.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Roger & Val Have Just Got In
1x06 The Valerie Step [season finale]
An excellent final episode to an excellent series. I hope we get more.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Articles
The Death Star of the 1930s (and other great retro scifi diagrams) by Cyriaque Lamar
(from io9)
A gallery of illustrations from the '30s, some of which are rather spectacular in their own retro way. I particularly like the A City On series, though the Future Ocean Liner appears to be amazingly prescient -- I think more-or-less everything it suggests has since come to pass.
(from io9)
A gallery of illustrations from the '30s, some of which are rather spectacular in their own retro way. I particularly like the A City On series, though the Future Ocean Liner appears to be amazingly prescient -- I think more-or-less everything it suggests has since come to pass.
Tuesday, 14 September 2010
TV
Gareth Malone's Extraordinary School for Boys
Part 1 (of 3)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
How I Met Your Mother
5x16 Hooked
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Part 1 (of 3)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
How I Met Your Mother
5x16 Hooked
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
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