Lots of interesting stuff today (well, I thought it was interesting), so here goes...
Del Toro: Hobbit casting 'very close' by Tim Parks
(from Digital Spy)
News about forthcoming news? Yep, that's the sort of thing that only happens for the biggest of the big franchises.
Fiona Phillips: 'Leaving GMTV was silly' by Daniel Kilkelly
(from Digital Spy)
Or it could be because she's a truly awful presenter.
Lowest ever live launch ratings for BB by Dan French
(from Digital Spy)
Good.
And in related news...
Michael McIntyre slams Big Brother
(from the Press Association, hosted by Google News)
Go Michael go!
Primeval creator talks finale, future by Neil Wilkes
(from Digital Spy)
Primeval may be of seriously variable quality, but at least they seem to have a plan. On the other hand, they're not very good at executing it.
Sugar 'must choose' between jobs
(from BBC News)
"The Conservatives say Sir Alan Sugar must choose between working for the government and working for the BBC as the star of The Apprentice. They say his new role as an "enterprise tsar" for the government is "completely incompatible" with BBC rules. Sir Alan, who will also be made a lord, denied he was joining the government. "As far as I'm concerned, this is politically neutral. All I want to do is to try and help businesses and enterprise," he told the BBC."
And finally...
Tourist clings to Australia train
(from BBC News)
An incredible story, worth reading in full.
Sunday, 7 June 2009
Saturday, 6 June 2009
TV
8 Out of 10 Cats
8x01 (5/6/09 edition)
Far (far) from the best panel show on TV, but it has its moments.
Primeval
3x10 Episode 10 [season finale]
Look here for my thoughts on this episode.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
8x01 (5/6/09 edition)
Far (far) from the best panel show on TV, but it has its moments.
Primeval
3x10 Episode 10 [season finale]
Look here for my thoughts on this episode.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Articles
Five Favorite Films with Adult Film Star Sasha Grey by Jen Yamato
(from Rotten Tomatoes)
An incredibly surprising list, all things considered.
Five Favourite Films with Renny Harlin by Orlando Parfitt
(from Rotten Tomatoes)
A surprisingly intelligent list, all things considered. Still not as surprising as the last one, mind. Though I'm not sure anyone's could be.
Where Will Star Trek Boldly Go Next? by Oscar Hillerstrom
(from Rotten Tomatoes)
With Star Trek II an inevitability (or Star Trek XII, if you prefer; or Star Trek XI 2), RT wonders what might be in store. Though not very seriously.
Wish List: 14 Directors and the Video Games They Should Adapt by Alex Vo
(from Rotten Tomatoes)
Again, don't take it too seriously, because, well, it isn't.
(from Rotten Tomatoes)
An incredibly surprising list, all things considered.
Five Favourite Films with Renny Harlin by Orlando Parfitt
(from Rotten Tomatoes)
A surprisingly intelligent list, all things considered. Still not as surprising as the last one, mind. Though I'm not sure anyone's could be.
Where Will Star Trek Boldly Go Next? by Oscar Hillerstrom
(from Rotten Tomatoes)
With Star Trek II an inevitability (or Star Trek XII, if you prefer; or Star Trek XI 2), RT wonders what might be in store. Though not very seriously.
Wish List: 14 Directors and the Video Games They Should Adapt by Alex Vo
(from Rotten Tomatoes)
Again, don't take it too seriously, because, well, it isn't.
Primeval 3x10
Sometimes I genuinely begin to wonder if Primeval even has a writer. This episode in particular displayed no evidence of one on frequent occasions, from characters contradicting themselves between scenes ("there won't be any guards" / "oh, there were no guards!") to unexplainable elements thrown in to provide brief moments of excitement (where did those grey bin bags come from and why were they there?)
But worst of all was the ending -- or 'ending'. It tried to provide a cliffhanger, but with the story so neatly tied up and no final twist to surprise us (despite the preceding 22 episodes containing plenty of elements that could be utilised to create one), the episode simply stopped.
Still, at least one plot point that's spanned all three series has finally been resolved -- good riddance! Though why they bothered I don't know, as most ongoing plot elements in Primeval are conveniently forgotten when they've had enough of them -- Helen's ability to clone soldiers/anything, for just one example, and something that could've been used to provide that twist too.
Personally, I was also surprised that Cutter didn't return -- his death was so brief and so surrounded in elements that could provide a get-out for him, it was disappointing that there was no twist to be revealed. On the other hand, as the majority of Primeval's fanbase seems to have simply accepted his death at face value, I guess the show's operating at the same intelligence level as its audience.
I expect we'll get a fourth series of Primeval. Though, really, is there any need?
But worst of all was the ending -- or 'ending'. It tried to provide a cliffhanger, but with the story so neatly tied up and no final twist to surprise us (despite the preceding 22 episodes containing plenty of elements that could be utilised to create one), the episode simply stopped.
Still, at least one plot point that's spanned all three series has finally been resolved -- good riddance! Though why they bothered I don't know, as most ongoing plot elements in Primeval are conveniently forgotten when they've had enough of them -- Helen's ability to clone soldiers/anything, for just one example, and something that could've been used to provide that twist too.
Personally, I was also surprised that Cutter didn't return -- his death was so brief and so surrounded in elements that could provide a get-out for him, it was disappointing that there was no twist to be revealed. On the other hand, as the majority of Primeval's fanbase seems to have simply accepted his death at face value, I guess the show's operating at the same intelligence level as its audience.
I expect we'll get a fourth series of Primeval. Though, really, is there any need?
Friday, 5 June 2009
TV
Friday Night With Jonathan Ross
16x14 (8/5/09 edition)
Haven't watched Jonathan Ross' show for ages, for no reason other than I never get round to it. Ought to try to change that now.
The Mentalist
1x11 Red John's Friends
Ah episode 11 -- halfway point of a US TV season. What does that mean? Yep, the most arc-plot-focused episode since the first. Pretty good one though. And I bet next week's is an especially light-hearted edition to balance it.
[Watch it (again) on Demand Five.]
16x14 (8/5/09 edition)
Haven't watched Jonathan Ross' show for ages, for no reason other than I never get round to it. Ought to try to change that now.
The Mentalist
1x11 Red John's Friends
Ah episode 11 -- halfway point of a US TV season. What does that mean? Yep, the most arc-plot-focused episode since the first. Pretty good one though. And I bet next week's is an especially light-hearted edition to balance it.
[Watch it (again) on Demand Five.]
Articles
Amazon Unveils Watchmen Blu-ray Exclusive
(from High-Def Digest)
Ooh, that's pretty...
Electronic Arts stages fake protest of game at E3
(from Mail.com)
A somewhat dubious idea, it seems to me. It would never fly over here these days after all the recent controversy over media outlets misleading the public.
Hobbits, monsters and CSI vampires
(from Newsnight Review)
An interview with film director Guillermo Del Toro, mainly covering his forthcoming work. Always worth a read. Tonight's Newsnight Review had a related feature, apparently, as well as several other interesting features by the looks of things. I missed it though, so iPlayer it is!
(from High-Def Digest)
Ooh, that's pretty...
Electronic Arts stages fake protest of game at E3
(from Mail.com)
A somewhat dubious idea, it seems to me. It would never fly over here these days after all the recent controversy over media outlets misleading the public.
Hobbits, monsters and CSI vampires
(from Newsnight Review)
An interview with film director Guillermo Del Toro, mainly covering his forthcoming work. Always worth a read. Tonight's Newsnight Review had a related feature, apparently, as well as several other interesting features by the looks of things. I missed it though, so iPlayer it is!
Thursday, 4 June 2009
Articles
BB10 'no housemates' twist revealed by Alex Fletcher
(from Digital Spy)
Don't worry, I'm not about to start covering Big Brother, but this piece is notable for its terribly misleading headline, which makes things sound a lot more intriguing than they actually are.
Kung Fu star Carradine found dead
(from BBC News)
"Kill Bill and Kung Fu star David Carradine has been found dead in a Bangkok hotel room."
Sad, unexpected news. Some places are reporting this as a suspected suicide, but if you read the details it really doesn't sound like one.
(from Digital Spy)
Don't worry, I'm not about to start covering Big Brother, but this piece is notable for its terribly misleading headline, which makes things sound a lot more intriguing than they actually are.
Kung Fu star Carradine found dead
(from BBC News)
"Kill Bill and Kung Fu star David Carradine has been found dead in a Bangkok hotel room."
Sad, unexpected news. Some places are reporting this as a suspected suicide, but if you read the details it really doesn't sound like one.
Wednesday, 3 June 2009
TV
Primeval
3x09 Episode 9
In which Surprise Future Lady turns up and starts spouting cliches like there's no tomorrow. Ironically. Then there's the uncomfortable marriage of a light-hearted plot (for the first half of the episode) and a Dark And Serious one (for the second), which they keep trying to pull off and never works. And to top it off, a cheesy final shot of the Team Walking Purposefully to the leader's Motivating Intention Speech while the Dramatic Purposeful Motivating Music sores. Oh dear.
In summary: Primeval's writing really does stink this series.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.
Robin Hood
3x09 A Dangerous Deal
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
3x09 Episode 9
In which Surprise Future Lady turns up and starts spouting cliches like there's no tomorrow. Ironically. Then there's the uncomfortable marriage of a light-hearted plot (for the first half of the episode) and a Dark And Serious one (for the second), which they keep trying to pull off and never works. And to top it off, a cheesy final shot of the Team Walking Purposefully to the leader's Motivating Intention Speech while the Dramatic Purposeful Motivating Music sores. Oh dear.
In summary: Primeval's writing really does stink this series.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.
Robin Hood
3x09 A Dangerous Deal
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Articles
Anthony Head: The Buffy spinoff Ripper may still be possible by
(from Sci Fi Wire)
"May" being the operative word. It's a case of "believe it when you see it" -- which I sincerely hope we do.
Outpost Gallifrey & the Doctor Who Forum To Close July 31 by Shaun Lyon
(from Outpost Gallifrey)
Something of a surprise, the closing of the biggest/most popular Doctor Who site/forum. Several years ago the site's owner & creator, Shaun Lyon, had enough of running the place and half handed it on to new people. That made sense -- fair enough if you want to move on, let new people keep it alive -- but this move doesn't, really, which is why it's a surprise. But hey, look, he still wants you to come to his conventions!
(from Sci Fi Wire)
"May" being the operative word. It's a case of "believe it when you see it" -- which I sincerely hope we do.
Outpost Gallifrey & the Doctor Who Forum To Close July 31 by Shaun Lyon
(from Outpost Gallifrey)
Something of a surprise, the closing of the biggest/most popular Doctor Who site/forum. Several years ago the site's owner & creator, Shaun Lyon, had enough of running the place and half handed it on to new people. That made sense -- fair enough if you want to move on, let new people keep it alive -- but this move doesn't, really, which is why it's a surprise. But hey, look, he still wants you to come to his conventions!
Games
Sam & Max: Season One
Episode 1: Culture Shock
I honestly can't remember the last time I played a computer game that wasn't something like Tetris or Solitaire. But I used to love adventure games and I've had this for a while, and with a new Monkey Island (always my favourite series) on its way next month, it's time to get back into the habit. Plus, as I have a Mac these days, I needed to get Windows running on here so I can play the darned thing. And I've managed it, though it's depressingly slow.
As for the game itself, it's a lot of fun -- which bodes well for the new Monkey Island as these are the guys behind that too. I really like this model of gaming -- a series of standalone chapters/episodes released over five or six months -- because it allows the more casual player to dip in and out, or effectively pay in installments, as well as allowing for a variety of stories to be told without the game seeming disjointed. Also, one of the reasons it works here is because each episode is a decent length -- at least, if you go round looking at everything and exploring every conversation path, which I always do because of all the good lines you can find tucked away in them. Certainly, I didn't complete this chapter in one sitting, and assuming they're all the same length that means a decent full-game-length amount of playability across all six chapters.
A success, then, which means I'm even more excited for Tales of Monkey Island...
Episode 1: Culture Shock
I honestly can't remember the last time I played a computer game that wasn't something like Tetris or Solitaire. But I used to love adventure games and I've had this for a while, and with a new Monkey Island (always my favourite series) on its way next month, it's time to get back into the habit. Plus, as I have a Mac these days, I needed to get Windows running on here so I can play the darned thing. And I've managed it, though it's depressingly slow.
As for the game itself, it's a lot of fun -- which bodes well for the new Monkey Island as these are the guys behind that too. I really like this model of gaming -- a series of standalone chapters/episodes released over five or six months -- because it allows the more casual player to dip in and out, or effectively pay in installments, as well as allowing for a variety of stories to be told without the game seeming disjointed. Also, one of the reasons it works here is because each episode is a decent length -- at least, if you go round looking at everything and exploring every conversation path, which I always do because of all the good lines you can find tucked away in them. Certainly, I didn't complete this chapter in one sitting, and assuming they're all the same length that means a decent full-game-length amount of playability across all six chapters.
A success, then, which means I'm even more excited for Tales of Monkey Island...
Tuesday, 2 June 2009
TV
The Wire
2x12 Port in a Storm [season finale]
So, that was that. Nice to see a clear indication of where the next season will be going. Only two-and-a-half weeks 'til it begins on BBC Two...
2x12 Port in a Storm [season finale]
So, that was that. Nice to see a clear indication of where the next season will be going. Only two-and-a-half weeks 'til it begins on BBC Two...
Articles
Review of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan Blu-ray by James Gray
(from DVD Times)
Informative review of the best (so I'm told) Star Trek film, recently released on Blu-ray.
Review of Up by Clydefro Jones
(from DVD Times)
Gasp in shock and horror as someone writes a review that criticises Pixar! While I don't wholly agree, he does have a point.
Watchmen (R2/UK BD) in July by Dave Foster
(from DVD Times)
An announcement (hurrah!), but a confusing one (boo!)
(from DVD Times)
Informative review of the best (so I'm told) Star Trek film, recently released on Blu-ray.
Review of Up by Clydefro Jones
(from DVD Times)
Gasp in shock and horror as someone writes a review that criticises Pixar! While I don't wholly agree, he does have a point.
Watchmen (R2/UK BD) in July by Dave Foster
(from DVD Times)
An announcement (hurrah!), but a confusing one (boo!)
new review at 100 Films
Watchmen (2009)
Read the full review at 100 Films.
There are currently 18 new films in the review pipeline at 100 Films, plus two shorts. As ever, updates here as and when they're posted.
With the dubiously-featured UK DVD and Blu-ray releases just announced, it seems about time to add a few of my thoughts to the already-overflowing mix. In doing this I find it impossible to fully divorce myself from the fact that I’m a fan of the book, so can only really view this adaptation from that perspective... But even as a fan, my opinions are not as predetermined as some might think.
Read the full review at 100 Films.
There are currently 18 new films in the review pipeline at 100 Films, plus two shorts. As ever, updates here as and when they're posted.
Monday, 1 June 2009
TV
Ashes to Ashes
2x07 Episode Seven
Brilliant episode. A surprising twist, perfectly built across the whole series, and a great performance from Marshall Lancaster, the unsung gem of both Ashes and Life on Mars.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Graham Norton Show
5x12 (28/5/09 edition, uncut repeat) [season finale]
Goodbye for now, Graham. You will be missed.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
2x07 Episode Seven
Brilliant episode. A surprising twist, perfectly built across the whole series, and a great performance from Marshall Lancaster, the unsung gem of both Ashes and Life on Mars.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Graham Norton Show
5x12 (28/5/09 edition, uncut repeat) [season finale]
Goodbye for now, Graham. You will be missed.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
DVD Extras
Superman II: Restoring the Vision
(from Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut)
How they recreated Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut, almost 30 years after it was shot. It's truly amazing how much effort was required to do this.
Resurrecting Jor-El
(from Superman Returns)
Similarly, how they created a new Marlon Brando performance for Superman Returns, using footage shot for Superman and Superman II back in the late '70s.
(from Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut)
How they recreated Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut, almost 30 years after it was shot. It's truly amazing how much effort was required to do this.
Resurrecting Jor-El
(from Superman Returns)
Similarly, how they created a new Marlon Brando performance for Superman Returns, using footage shot for Superman and Superman II back in the late '70s.
Articles
Back To Earth DVD Cover Art
and
Documenting the Documentaries
and
Content Confirmed
(from reddwarf.co.uk)
Latest updates on the forthcoming Red Dwarf: Back to Earth DVD. Love that screen-faithful packaging. The addition of Making Of: Part Two is also great news as the first was a tad lacking.
Tony Scott Confirms Carl Rinsch is Directing New Alien Movie. And it’s a PREQUEL! by Steve 'Frosty' Weintraub
(from Collider.com)
Both exciting and very... suspicious...
And don't miss the announcements of new Monkey Island games here.
and
Documenting the Documentaries
and
Content Confirmed
(from reddwarf.co.uk)
Latest updates on the forthcoming Red Dwarf: Back to Earth DVD. Love that screen-faithful packaging. The addition of Making Of: Part Two is also great news as the first was a tad lacking.
Tony Scott Confirms Carl Rinsch is Directing New Alien Movie. And it’s a PREQUEL! by Steve 'Frosty' Weintraub
(from Collider.com)
Both exciting and very... suspicious...
And don't miss the announcements of new Monkey Island games here.
Monkey Island is back!
I never thought I'd see the day, but it's been reported today that LucasArts' Monkey Island series of games is to return. Hooray! I've grown up playing those games and adored every last one, so this has me over the moon. I literally jumped for joy.
Anyway, here are some of the announcements & that..
Monkey Island is BACK, baby! by Emily
(from the Telltale Blog)
So, the new game -- or games, depending on your perspective -- is being developed by Telltale, who make various other game-series like Sam & Max and Wallace & Gromit (maybe the should've rebranded it Guybrush & Elaine? No?) Here's their announcement, with plentiful details.
Stuff and Things and Monkey Island by Ron Gilbert
(from Grumpy Gamer)
The games' original creator on the latest news. A long but fascinating read.
You may have noticed that, in addition to the new game, they've remade the original. Not sold on the new graphic style, though I'll definitely be getting my hands on it. The official site -- with art, videos, that kinda thing is...
The Secret of Monkey Island: Special Edition Official Site
aka www.MonkeyIslandSpecialEdition.com. Nice name. Includes a great behind-the-scenes video.
And to round things off, the full official site for the new game...
Tales of Monkey Island Official Site
Ooh, I can't wait!
Anyway, here are some of the announcements & that..
Monkey Island is BACK, baby! by Emily
(from the Telltale Blog)
So, the new game -- or games, depending on your perspective -- is being developed by Telltale, who make various other game-series like Sam & Max and Wallace & Gromit (maybe the should've rebranded it Guybrush & Elaine? No?) Here's their announcement, with plentiful details.
Stuff and Things and Monkey Island by Ron Gilbert
(from Grumpy Gamer)
The games' original creator on the latest news. A long but fascinating read.
You may have noticed that, in addition to the new game, they've remade the original. Not sold on the new graphic style, though I'll definitely be getting my hands on it. The official site -- with art, videos, that kinda thing is...
The Secret of Monkey Island: Special Edition Official Site
aka www.MonkeyIslandSpecialEdition.com. Nice name. Includes a great behind-the-scenes video.
And to round things off, the full official site for the new game...
Tales of Monkey Island Official Site
Ooh, I can't wait!
new review at 100 Films
La Antena (2007)
Read the full review at 100 Films.
There are currently 19 new films in the review pipeline at 100 Films, plus two shorts. As ever, updates here as and when they're posted.
La Antena could sit comfortably alongside ‘real’ silent films to the extent that the uninitiated might reasonably be fooled into believing it was one. In some respects this is neither here nor there, though it will undoubtedly put some viewers off. For those with a more open mind or who are fans of silent movies, however, it’s a joy.
Read the full review at 100 Films.
There are currently 19 new films in the review pipeline at 100 Films, plus two shorts. As ever, updates here as and when they're posted.
Sunday, 31 May 2009
TV
Have I Got News For You
37x06 (28/5/09 edition; uncut repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Roland Garros 2009
Huge shocks as clay court God Rafael Nadal, never defeated at the French Open, goes out in the 23rd seed in only the fourth round. You may've seen this all over twitter.
The Wire
2x11 Bad Dreams
The penultimate episode, and this variable season is nearly done. Good to see some Omar action at last. I hear season three is widely held to be the best of the bunch, so looking forward to that one (whenever it begins).
37x06 (28/5/09 edition; uncut repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Roland Garros 2009
Huge shocks as clay court God Rafael Nadal, never defeated at the French Open, goes out in the 23rd seed in only the fourth round. You may've seen this all over twitter.
The Wire
2x11 Bad Dreams
The penultimate episode, and this variable season is nearly done. Good to see some Omar action at last. I hear season three is widely held to be the best of the bunch, so looking forward to that one (whenever it begins).
Saturday, 30 May 2009
TV
Ashes to Ashes
2x06 Episode Six
Gene Hunt + nasty lone shark + car crusher = brilliant.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Robin Hood
3x08 The King is Dead, Long Live the King...
Another fantastic episode thanks to Toby Stephens' Prince John, who is beyond brilliant, and an epic confrontation in an abbey. The schoolboy squabbling of Robin's gang and a couple of niggling plot holes do hold the show back, but it's nothing like as weak as Primeval has been recently. That said, with Prince John leaving -- and half the cast also off at the end of this series -- things don't look that rosy.
(Yes, I'm a week behind.)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
2x06 Episode Six
Gene Hunt + nasty lone shark + car crusher = brilliant.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Robin Hood
3x08 The King is Dead, Long Live the King...
Another fantastic episode thanks to Toby Stephens' Prince John, who is beyond brilliant, and an epic confrontation in an abbey. The schoolboy squabbling of Robin's gang and a couple of niggling plot holes do hold the show back, but it's nothing like as weak as Primeval has been recently. That said, with Prince John leaving -- and half the cast also off at the end of this series -- things don't look that rosy.
(Yes, I'm a week behind.)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Films
Le Mépris Trailer
As found on the Criterion DVD (and possibly other releases, I don't know. A bit like a Hitchcock trailer, it's an entertaining work in its own right. If only they still made 'em like this.
Toy Story 3 Trailer
Brief and unrevealing, but also funny and excitement-building. Can't wait.
As found on the Criterion DVD (and possibly other releases, I don't know. A bit like a Hitchcock trailer, it's an entertaining work in its own right. If only they still made 'em like this.
Toy Story 3 Trailer
Brief and unrevealing, but also funny and excitement-building. Can't wait.
new review at 100 Films
Commentary! The Musical (2008)
Read the full review at 100 Films.
There are currently 18 new films in the review pipeline at 100 Films, plus two shorts. As ever, updates here as and when they're posted.
Focuses its energy on spoofing commentary tracks, DVD extras, and the American film and TV industry in general... It’s almost all incredibly funny and it moves at a rate of knots, meaning it rewards multiple listens to pick up every gag... With its well-targeted thematically-appropriate comedy and plentiful gags, it’s pure delight for fans of DVDs
Read the full review at 100 Films.
There are currently 18 new films in the review pipeline at 100 Films, plus two shorts. As ever, updates here as and when they're posted.
Friday, 29 May 2009
TV
Boy Meets Girl
Part 4 (of 4)
A moderately satisfying conclusion.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Primeval
3x08 Episode 8
There comes a point in every episode of Primeval these days where, however hard you're trying to take it seriously, you just have to give in and either let the poor writing and ludicrous plotting wash over you or start laughing at its absurdity. I've always been quite critical of Primeval, but increasingly this batch of episodes is making me long for the good old days of the first series.
Meanwhile, this episode, Annoying Brother finally gets in some proper trouble, though disappointingly survives. On the bright side this is his final episode... though the Annoying Government Baddies are back to replace him. It's like a relay race of irritation.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Part 4 (of 4)
A moderately satisfying conclusion.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Primeval
3x08 Episode 8
There comes a point in every episode of Primeval these days where, however hard you're trying to take it seriously, you just have to give in and either let the poor writing and ludicrous plotting wash over you or start laughing at its absurdity. I've always been quite critical of Primeval, but increasingly this batch of episodes is making me long for the good old days of the first series.
Meanwhile, this episode, Annoying Brother finally gets in some proper trouble, though disappointingly survives. On the bright side this is his final episode... though the Annoying Government Baddies are back to replace him. It's like a relay race of irritation.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Articles
David Tennant reprises role in RSC Hamlet for BBC Two
(from BBC Press Office)
Hurrah! It was an excellent production and this filmed version sounds different but equally promising.
Doctor Who unveils new companion for 11th Time Lord
(from BBC Press Office)
An interesting choice, and arguably quite brave to go with an unknown alongside a near-unknown Doctor, though I'm certain they have good reason.
(from BBC Press Office)
Hurrah! It was an excellent production and this filmed version sounds different but equally promising.
Doctor Who unveils new companion for 11th Time Lord
(from BBC Press Office)
An interesting choice, and arguably quite brave to go with an unknown alongside a near-unknown Doctor, though I'm certain they have good reason.
Poem of the Week: Just In Case
by Charlotte Mitchell
A third and final (for now) venture into the poems offered by . This one rang very true for me. I'm sure sensible people don't do it, but I'm also sure you must know someone who does.
This was first published in Mitchell's volume Just in Case: Poems in My Pocket in 1991, a collection connected to her radio series (also title Just in Case). She's also an actress who was involved in The Goon Show donchaknow.
A third and final (for now) venture into the poems offered by . This one rang very true for me. I'm sure sensible people don't do it, but I'm also sure you must know someone who does.
I'm going to the see for the weekend,
in a couple of days I'll be back,
so I'll just take my little brown suit and a blouse
and a beret and carry my mac.
But what if the house is a cold one,
the house where I'm going to stay,
no fires after April, no hot drinks at night
and the windows wide open all day?
I'd better take one -- no, two cardys
and my long tartan scarf for my head,
and my chaste new pyjamas in case they decide
to bring me my breakfast in bed.
And what about church on the Sunday?
I could wear my beret and suit,
but if it were sunny, it would be a chance
to wear my straw hat with the fruit.
I can't wear my little brown suit, though,
not with the straw with the fruit,
so I'll just take a silk dress to go with the straw
and a silk scarf to go with the suit.
I'll just take my jeans and that jumper
in case we go out in a car,
and my Guernsey in case we go out in a boat
and d'you know where my swimming things are?
D'you think I should take that black velvet
in case they've booked seats for a play?
And is it still usual to take your own towel
when you go somewhere to stay?
I had thought of just taking slippers,
but they do look disgustingly old,
I'd better take best shoes and sandals and boots
for the church and the heat and the cold.
I daren't go without my umbrella
in case I'm dressed up and it rains;
I'm bound to need socks and my wellies
for walking down long muddy lanes.
I'd rather not take my old dressing gown,
it is such a business to pack,
but 'spose they have breakfast before they get dressed
I'd have to take mine in my mac.
I'm going to the see for the weekend,
in a couple of days I'll be back,
so I'll just take my little brown suit and a blouse,
two cardys, my long tartan scarf,
my chaste new pyjamas,
my straw hat with the fruit,
my silk dress, my silk scarf,
my jeans, that jumper,
my Guernsey, my swimming things,
my black velvet, my towel, my
slippers (no one need see them)
my sandals, my boots, my
umbrella, my socks, my wellies,
my dressing-gown, no, not
my dressing-gown, OK, my
dressing gown
and a beret and carry my mac.
This was first published in Mitchell's volume Just in Case: Poems in My Pocket in 1991, a collection connected to her radio series (also title Just in Case). She's also an actress who was involved in The Goon Show donchaknow.
Thursday, 28 May 2009
TV
Ashes to Ashes
2x05 Episode Five
A disappointing episode, with Alex behaving ridiculously around the 14-year-old version of her future ex-husband. It must've sounded like a good idea for an episode, but sadly it's poorly handled. Hopefully the remaining three will be as good as previous episodes.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Mentalist
1x10 Red Brick and Ivy
[Watch it (again) on Demand Five.]
2x05 Episode Five
A disappointing episode, with Alex behaving ridiculously around the 14-year-old version of her future ex-husband. It must've sounded like a good idea for an episode, but sadly it's poorly handled. Hopefully the remaining three will be as good as previous episodes.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Mentalist
1x10 Red Brick and Ivy
[Watch it (again) on Demand Five.]
Articles
The Complete List Of Tired Movie Cliches by Helen O'Hara
(from the Empire Blog)
Scroll to comment #122 -- it shows why movie clichés are actually a good thing. (And I found it very funny too.)
Fry's Audiobook A Big Hit
(from WENN)
"Stephen Fry's new audiobook has become an online bestseller in just one day. The British writer and funnyman's The Dongle of Donald Trefusis was released as a download through iTunes... In a day, it shot into the top five Top Albums in iTunes' UK and New Zealand stores, and it's already currently the number one spoken word album in United States iTunes' store."
And it is, in fact, #1 across all albums on the UK store! Rather incredible. Well done Mr Fry.
Put the book back on the shelf: 13 book-to-film adaptations that the authors hated by Josh Modell, Keith Phipps, Leonard Pierce, Nathan Rabin, Scott Gordon, Scott Tobias, Tasha Robinson & Zack Handlen
(from A.V. Club)
Review of Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian by Roger Ebert
(from rogerebert.com)
I do like a good review by Ebert. And by "good" I mean well-written, because he doesn't like this at all -- and it's great.
(from the Empire Blog)
Scroll to comment #122 -- it shows why movie clichés are actually a good thing. (And I found it very funny too.)
Fry's Audiobook A Big Hit
(from WENN)
"Stephen Fry's new audiobook has become an online bestseller in just one day. The British writer and funnyman's The Dongle of Donald Trefusis was released as a download through iTunes... In a day, it shot into the top five Top Albums in iTunes' UK and New Zealand stores, and it's already currently the number one spoken word album in United States iTunes' store."
And it is, in fact, #1 across all albums on the UK store! Rather incredible. Well done Mr Fry.
Put the book back on the shelf: 13 book-to-film adaptations that the authors hated by Josh Modell, Keith Phipps, Leonard Pierce, Nathan Rabin, Scott Gordon, Scott Tobias, Tasha Robinson & Zack Handlen
(from A.V. Club)
Review of Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian by Roger Ebert
(from rogerebert.com)
I do like a good review by Ebert. And by "good" I mean well-written, because he doesn't like this at all -- and it's great.
Wednesday, 27 May 2009
TV
The Omid Djalili Show
2x06 Episode 6 [season finale]
A variable quality episode to end a variable quality series. To be honest, I think Djalili is much funnier as a stand-up than a sketch performer, though his musicals are great.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Wire
2x10 Storm Warnings
Sometimes I worry that The Wire is slipping into clichés and losing sight of its original "it's all real" outlook. Most of them would pass by just fine in any other drama, but they seem a little out of place here. On the bright side, at least the plot continues to move forward, though having wasted so many of the early episodes on next-to-nothing this season has generally struggled to reach the highs of the first.
This second season finished on BBC Two tonight, though due to a recording muck up I'll be a few days behind. I presume that, as before, there'll be a few weeks before season three comes along.
2x06 Episode 6 [season finale]
A variable quality episode to end a variable quality series. To be honest, I think Djalili is much funnier as a stand-up than a sketch performer, though his musicals are great.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Wire
2x10 Storm Warnings
Sometimes I worry that The Wire is slipping into clichés and losing sight of its original "it's all real" outlook. Most of them would pass by just fine in any other drama, but they seem a little out of place here. On the bright side, at least the plot continues to move forward, though having wasted so many of the early episodes on next-to-nothing this season has generally struggled to reach the highs of the first.
This second season finished on BBC Two tonight, though due to a recording muck up I'll be a few days behind. I presume that, as before, there'll be a few weeks before season three comes along.
Articles
Boyle Returns To Mumbai To Reassure Child Stars
(from Studio Briefing)
The controversy over how Slumdog Millionaire treated its poor Indian children cast members rears its head again. To be blunt, I'm beginning to wonder if some of these child stars' parents are just trying to get a free ride. I mean, "It's no big deal for them, this kind of money... They should help us." My understanding is, they already have, and clearly he just wants more.
(from Studio Briefing)
The controversy over how Slumdog Millionaire treated its poor Indian children cast members rears its head again. To be blunt, I'm beginning to wonder if some of these child stars' parents are just trying to get a free ride. I mean, "It's no big deal for them, this kind of money... They should help us." My understanding is, they already have, and clearly he just wants more.
Tuesday, 26 May 2009
TV
The Wire
2x09 Stray Rounds
In which Baltimore detective Jimmy McNulty -- played by English actor Dominic West -- has to try an English accent, and is appallingly bad at it. Most amusing.
2x09 Stray Rounds
In which Baltimore detective Jimmy McNulty -- played by English actor Dominic West -- has to try an English accent, and is appallingly bad at it. Most amusing.
new review at 100 Films
Flash Gordon (1980)
Read the full review at 100 Films.
There are currently 16 new films in the review pipeline at 100 Films, plus three shorts. As ever, updates here as and when they're posted.
Flash often seems to be dismissed as an unintentionally campy load of nonsense, perhaps with some ironic appeal. What this assessment misses is how knowing it is. Yes, it’s ridiculously camp, the dialogue is cheesy, the performances equally so, and it’s brighter and more colourful than any under-5s TV show ever produced. But it knows it is... The sheer volume of things there are to love in this film makes them hard to list without watching it and pointing them out as they appear...
Read the full review at 100 Films.
There are currently 16 new films in the review pipeline at 100 Films, plus three shorts. As ever, updates here as and when they're posted.
Monday, 25 May 2009
TV
The Graham Norton Show
5x11 (21/5/09 edition, uncut repeat)
Featuring Isabella Rossellini's Green Porno, which has to be seen to be believed but is utterly hilarious.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Have I Got News For You
37x05 (22/5/09 edition; uncut repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Wire
2x08 Duck and Cover
Playing catch up (episode ten is on BBC Two as this is posted). Now thankful the Beeb are taking breaks between seasons!
5x11 (21/5/09 edition, uncut repeat)
Featuring Isabella Rossellini's Green Porno, which has to be seen to be believed but is utterly hilarious.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Have I Got News For You
37x05 (22/5/09 edition; uncut repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Wire
2x08 Duck and Cover
Playing catch up (episode ten is on BBC Two as this is posted). Now thankful the Beeb are taking breaks between seasons!
Articles
Two pieces of exciting Doctor Who news today...
The Doctor Joins The Sarah Jane Adventures by Cameron K McEwan
(from Den of Geek!)
"David Tennant will be starring in a two-part story due to be screened in the Autumn. Also joining the Tenth Doctor is the robotic mutt, K9... "it's more than just a cameo from the Tenth Doctor! He's a proper part of the story... the wedding of Sarah Jane will be a day for everyone to remember!""
Intriguing! I just hope it's called something like The Wedding of Sarah Jane Smith to tie in with the similarly-titled stories from seasons one and two.
Doctor Who: Animated Series On The Way by Cameron K McEwan
(from Den of Geek!)
"Debuting in "Autumn," a new animated Doctor Who story, entitled Dreamland, will be hitting the small screen through the BBC's red button service and Children's BBC. There will be seven episodes comprising of approximately six minutes." Follow the link for more.
There's also the promise of "Special Project 3" from Russell T Davies -- but what will it be? Who can say...
The Doctor Joins The Sarah Jane Adventures by Cameron K McEwan
(from Den of Geek!)
"David Tennant will be starring in a two-part story due to be screened in the Autumn. Also joining the Tenth Doctor is the robotic mutt, K9... "it's more than just a cameo from the Tenth Doctor! He's a proper part of the story... the wedding of Sarah Jane will be a day for everyone to remember!""
Intriguing! I just hope it's called something like The Wedding of Sarah Jane Smith to tie in with the similarly-titled stories from seasons one and two.
Doctor Who: Animated Series On The Way by Cameron K McEwan
(from Den of Geek!)
"Debuting in "Autumn," a new animated Doctor Who story, entitled Dreamland, will be hitting the small screen through the BBC's red button service and Children's BBC. There will be seven episodes comprising of approximately six minutes." Follow the link for more.
There's also the promise of "Special Project 3" from Russell T Davies -- but what will it be? Who can say...
Sunday, 24 May 2009
TV
Robot Chicken
Robot Chicken: Star Wars [special]
Everyone knows that Family Guy did a great big George Lucas-approved Star Wars spoof (right)? What slightly fewer people know (due to it being on some obscure channel) is that Robot Chicken also did one. And they did it first. I think. Anyway, this is that.
Which was funnier? It's been so long since I saw Family Guy's (before this blog began) that I honestly wouldn't like to say, but they're notably different -- Family Guy retells A New Hope, while this contains sketches about the whole series.
Robot Chicken: Star Wars [special]
Everyone knows that Family Guy did a great big George Lucas-approved Star Wars spoof (right)? What slightly fewer people know (due to it being on some obscure channel) is that Robot Chicken also did one. And they did it first. I think. Anyway, this is that.
Which was funnier? It's been so long since I saw Family Guy's (before this blog began) that I honestly wouldn't like to say, but they're notably different -- Family Guy retells A New Hope, while this contains sketches about the whole series.
Articles
Yet more on Tarantino's latest today...
Early Buzz: Inglourious Basterds by Peter Sciretta
(from /film)
More review summaries? Yes, but this is a nicely concise and varied example. Stand-out comment: "well worth watching and admirably ambitious and single-minded... Inglourious Basterds will split viewers." You only need to read the article to see how much it already has.
Tarantino Heading Back into the Editing Room with Basterds by Alex Billington
(from FirstShowing.net)
"Before its premiere, the running time was one of the most talked about aspects of the film. It was listed at 2 hours 40 minutes, but it actually only played roughly 2 hours 28 minutes. Most people are instantly assuming that some of the negative criticism stems from its length and are saying that Tarantino needs to trim it down. On the contrary, though, it felt like it was missing a few key scenes...
Universal wants Tarantino to return "to the editing room post-Cannes to make some trims edits that might include adding a scene, says Tarantino." He also reminds us that the current run time is "well under his contractual final cut length of 2 hours 48 minutes.""
Early Buzz: Inglourious Basterds by Peter Sciretta
(from /film)
More review summaries? Yes, but this is a nicely concise and varied example. Stand-out comment: "well worth watching and admirably ambitious and single-minded... Inglourious Basterds will split viewers." You only need to read the article to see how much it already has.
Tarantino Heading Back into the Editing Room with Basterds by Alex Billington
(from FirstShowing.net)
"Before its premiere, the running time was one of the most talked about aspects of the film. It was listed at 2 hours 40 minutes, but it actually only played roughly 2 hours 28 minutes. Most people are instantly assuming that some of the negative criticism stems from its length and are saying that Tarantino needs to trim it down. On the contrary, though, it felt like it was missing a few key scenes...
Universal wants Tarantino to return "to the editing room post-Cannes to make some trims edits that might include adding a scene, says Tarantino." He also reminds us that the current run time is "well under his contractual final cut length of 2 hours 48 minutes.""
Saturday, 23 May 2009
DVD Extras
Transporter 3 extras
- The Making of Transporter 3
- Storyboard Comparison
- Special FX
- Set/Production Design
- Car Stunts
With a combined running time of 27 minutes, there's not a great deal here. On the other hand, some of it's so lightweight that becomes a blessing. The Making Of featurette takes up most of the time at 16 minutes, but it's very weak, often just showing some behind-the-scenes footage with no explanation.
The four featurettes all feature commentary from director Olivier Megaton and are much better. Though they run for just two to three minutes each, they manage a passable amount of detail about their chosen topics. The storyboards one is especially interesting because, in spite of the title, it shows two unfilmed sequences (and no storyboard-to-screen comparisons).
- The Making of Transporter 3
- Storyboard Comparison
- Special FX
- Set/Production Design
- Car Stunts
With a combined running time of 27 minutes, there's not a great deal here. On the other hand, some of it's so lightweight that becomes a blessing. The Making Of featurette takes up most of the time at 16 minutes, but it's very weak, often just showing some behind-the-scenes footage with no explanation.
The four featurettes all feature commentary from director Olivier Megaton and are much better. Though they run for just two to three minutes each, they manage a passable amount of detail about their chosen topics. The storyboards one is especially interesting because, in spite of the title, it shows two unfilmed sequences (and no storyboard-to-screen comparisons).
Films
Flash Gordon (1980)
[#27a in 100 Films in a Year 2009]
Despite having seen this before -- only once, I think, and a long time ago when I was very young -- and having a huge review backlog I've still taken the time to write a piece on this. I have my reasons. Anyway, I'll post it in a few days, quite cynically leaving time for my Alien and Predator reviews to garner hits from DVD Times' front page.
[#27a in 100 Films in a Year 2009]
Despite having seen this before -- only once, I think, and a long time ago when I was very young -- and having a huge review backlog I've still taken the time to write a piece on this. I have my reasons. Anyway, I'll post it in a few days, quite cynically leaving time for my Alien and Predator reviews to garner hits from DVD Times' front page.
Fiction
The Recently Deflowered Girl by Hyacinthe Phypps
Pages 6 - 47
This is a bit random: a comedy book from 1965, actually written/illustrated by Mel Juffe (if he's real) and Edward Gorey (though it's so obscure it's not even on his Wikipedia bibliography) offering advice on what to say in certain potentially embarrassing post-deflowerment situations.
Someone's scanned a significant chunk (though apparently not all) of it and put it online here. Some of it's very funny, other bits just wish they were. Look to this blog post for a little more info.
Pages 6 - 47
This is a bit random: a comedy book from 1965, actually written/illustrated by Mel Juffe (if he's real) and Edward Gorey (though it's so obscure it's not even on his Wikipedia bibliography) offering advice on what to say in certain potentially embarrassing post-deflowerment situations.
Someone's scanned a significant chunk (though apparently not all) of it and put it online here. Some of it's very funny, other bits just wish they were. Look to this blog post for a little more info.
new reviews at 100 Films
A pair of new reviews have been posted over at 100 Films today...
Alien: The Director's Cut (1979/2003)
Predator (1987)
Read the full reviews at 100 Films.
There are currently 15 new films in the review pipeline at 100 Films, plus three shorts. As ever, updates here as and when they're posted.
Alien: The Director's Cut (1979/2003)
Alien feels unchanged. It’s been said many times before but, first and foremost, it’s a horror movie — it just happens to be one set in space with plenty of sci-fi trappings… Whatever effect Scott’s trims may have had, they haven’t made it any less effective in this regard
Predator (1987)
it’s an entertaining war flick that turns into a sci-fi/action/horror skirmish thingy — but it doesn’t have the same finesse that imbues Alien and its sequel.
Read the full reviews at 100 Films.
There are currently 15 new films in the review pipeline at 100 Films, plus three shorts. As ever, updates here as and when they're posted.
Friday, 22 May 2009
Articles
Review of Terminator Salvation by Devin Faraci
(from Empire)
A positive perspective on the widely panned new Terminator entry. Sounds pretty good to me.
(from Empire)
A positive perspective on the widely panned new Terminator entry. Sounds pretty good to me.
Poem of the Week: Casey at the Bat
by Ernest Lawrence Thayer
As promised last week, here's another selection from The Nation's Favourite Comic Verse. It's about baseball -- or, to us Brits, 'glorified rounders' -- though a lack of knowledge on that front is no barrier to enjoyment, as the basic theme of this could easily apply to most sports (and for much of it could be about most sports).
This was first published in a newspaper in 1888, a year which looks kinda nice written down. It's clearly Thayer's most famous poem and has its own Wikipedia page here with more info than you could ever need.
There's also a version of the poem at Wikisource which has many notable differences to the one I've published here, which is taken directly from The Nation's Favourite Comic Verse. It's not just a case of formatting or punctuation -- some lines are almost entirely different. Wikisource says their version is the original from the paper; I don't know where this (revised, presumably) version originates.
As promised last week, here's another selection from The Nation's Favourite Comic Verse. It's about baseball -- or, to us Brits, 'glorified rounders' -- though a lack of knowledge on that front is no barrier to enjoyment, as the basic theme of this could easily apply to most sports (and for much of it could be about most sports).
The outlook wasn't brilliant for the Mudville nine that day;
The score stood four to two with but one inning more to play.
So when Cooney died at second, and Burrows did the same,
A pallor wreathed the features of the patrons of the game.
A straggling few got up to go in deep despair. The rest
Clung to the hope which springs eternal in the human breast;
They thought, 'If only Casey could but get a whack at that --
We'd put up even money now with Casey at the bat.'
But Flynn preceded Casey, as did also Jimmy Blake,
And the former was a lulu and the latter was a fake;
So upon that stricken multitude a deathlike silence sat,
For there seemed but little chance of Casey's getting to the bat.
But Flynn let drive a single, to the wonderment of all,
And Blake, the much despis-ed, tore the cover off the ball;
And when the dust had lifted, and the men saw what had occurred,
There was Jimmy safe at second and Flynn a-hugging third.
Then from five thousand throats and more there rose a lusty yell;
It rumbled in the mountaintops, it rattled in the dell;
It knocked upon the hillside and recoiled upon the flat,
For Casey, mighty Casey, was advancing to the bat.
There was ease in Casey's manner as he stepped into his place;
There was pride in Casey's bearing and a smile on Casey's face.
And when, responding to the cheers, he lightly doffed his hat,
No stranger in the crowd could doubt 'twas Casey at the bat.
Ten thousand eyes were on him as he rubbed his hands with dirt;
Five thousand tongues applauded when he wiped them on his shirt.
Then while the writhing pitcher ground the ball into his hip,
Defiance gleamed in Casey's eye, a sneer curled Casey's lip.
And now the leather-covered sphere came hurtling through the air,
And Casey stood a-watching it in haughty grandeur there.
Close by the sturdy batsman the ball unheeded sped --
'That ain't my style,' said Casey -- 'Strike one,' the Umpire said.
From the benches black with people, there went up a muffled roar,
Like the beating of the storm-waves on a stern and distant shore.
"Kill him! kill the umpire!" shouted someone on the stand;
And it's likely they'd have killed him had not Casey raised his hand.
With a smile of Christian charity great Casey's visage shone;
He stilled the rising tumult; he bade the game go on;
He signalled to the pitcher, and once more the spheroid flew;
But Casey still ignored it, and the Umpire said, "Strike two."
'Fraud!' cried the maddened thousands, and echo answered, 'Fraud!'
But one scornful look from Casey and the multitude was awed.
They saw his face grow stern and cold, they saw his muscles strain,
And they knew that Casey wouldn't let that ball go by again.
The sneer is gone from Casey's lip, his teeth are clenched in hate;
He pounds with cruel violence his bat upon the plate.
And now the pitcher holds the ball, and now he lets it go,
And now the air is shattered by the force of Casey's blow.
Oh, somewhere in this favored land the sun is shining bright;
The band is playing somewhere, and somewhere hearts are light,
And somewhere men are laughing, and somewhere children shout;
But there is no joy in Mudville -- mighty Casey has struck out.
This was first published in a newspaper in 1888, a year which looks kinda nice written down. It's clearly Thayer's most famous poem and has its own Wikipedia page here with more info than you could ever need.
There's also a version of the poem at Wikisource which has many notable differences to the one I've published here, which is taken directly from The Nation's Favourite Comic Verse. It's not just a case of formatting or punctuation -- some lines are almost entirely different. Wikisource says their version is the original from the paper; I don't know where this (revised, presumably) version originates.
Thursday, 21 May 2009
TV
I didn't watch Question Time -- unlike most of twitter, it would seem -- but I did watch these:
The Graham Norton Show
5x10 (14/5/09 edition, uncut repeat)
Very surprised how much I liked Lily Allen on this. Amused that she could say the controversial lyrics from her song but wasn't allowed to sing them -- presumably the bit where she spelt it out was cut from the first broadcast (which has an earlier timeslot).
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Mentalist
1x09 Flame Red
Although the actual plot was a little light, it was thematically significant. Nice to see Jane's steely side too. I'm really enjoying this show -- very glad it's actually been a hit in America and isn't faced with cancellation, as so many of the best shows often are.
[Watch it (again) on Demand Five.]
The Omid Djalili Show
2x05 Episode 5
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
At the risk of getting dreadfully behind, for various personal reasons The Wire will now return next week.
The Graham Norton Show
5x10 (14/5/09 edition, uncut repeat)
Very surprised how much I liked Lily Allen on this. Amused that she could say the controversial lyrics from her song but wasn't allowed to sing them -- presumably the bit where she spelt it out was cut from the first broadcast (which has an earlier timeslot).
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Mentalist
1x09 Flame Red
Although the actual plot was a little light, it was thematically significant. Nice to see Jane's steely side too. I'm really enjoying this show -- very glad it's actually been a hit in America and isn't faced with cancellation, as so many of the best shows often are.
[Watch it (again) on Demand Five.]
The Omid Djalili Show
2x05 Episode 5
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
At the risk of getting dreadfully behind, for various personal reasons The Wire will now return next week.
Articles
C’est Magnifique - The Red Shoes Wows Cannes by John Hodson
(from From the Cheap Seats)
"The Red Shoes has been meticulously restored and [received] a special screening at the 62nd Cannes International Film Festival... 'I had never seen The Red Shoes on the big screen, leave alone like this. The restoration is stupendous... The colours absolutely leap from the screen.'"
The restored Red Shoes hits UK DVD and Blu-ray on June 29th.
Details on next-gen iPhone leaked? by Mark Langshaw
(from Digital Spy)
"Consistent with past rumours, the system will allegedly include a digital compass and video recorder. A built-in FM transmitter and an OLED screen to improve battery life will also be incorporated, while the RAM and processing power are double that of the current iPhone. The system’s digital camera will be significantly more powerful than its predecessor's, and users will also be able to send photographs and video material via text message."
True or not, there's definitely a software update coming for existing iPhones this summer, and some of that could be incorporated there too.
Film review: Inglourious Basterds by Emma Jones
(from BBC News)
BBC News' balanced opinion on Tarantino's new film (see yesterday and further down for more).
The new 1982 by primus
(from The Ark)
An interesting theory (that 1982 is remembered as a classic year for genre cinema, but has there been one as good since?) and intriguingly argued, though I'm not convinced he's found a genuinely viable alternative.
The Next Dimension: Does 3D Really Work? by Dan Jolin
(from the Empire Blog)
Some valuable 3D skepticism.
We've Seen Inglourious Basterds! by Chris Hewitt
(from Empire)
And finally, a glowing report/review of That Tarantino Film.
(from From the Cheap Seats)
"The Red Shoes has been meticulously restored and [received] a special screening at the 62nd Cannes International Film Festival... 'I had never seen The Red Shoes on the big screen, leave alone like this. The restoration is stupendous... The colours absolutely leap from the screen.'"
The restored Red Shoes hits UK DVD and Blu-ray on June 29th.
Details on next-gen iPhone leaked? by Mark Langshaw
(from Digital Spy)
"Consistent with past rumours, the system will allegedly include a digital compass and video recorder. A built-in FM transmitter and an OLED screen to improve battery life will also be incorporated, while the RAM and processing power are double that of the current iPhone. The system’s digital camera will be significantly more powerful than its predecessor's, and users will also be able to send photographs and video material via text message."
True or not, there's definitely a software update coming for existing iPhones this summer, and some of that could be incorporated there too.
Film review: Inglourious Basterds by Emma Jones
(from BBC News)
BBC News' balanced opinion on Tarantino's new film (see yesterday and further down for more).
The new 1982 by primus
(from The Ark)
An interesting theory (that 1982 is remembered as a classic year for genre cinema, but has there been one as good since?) and intriguingly argued, though I'm not convinced he's found a genuinely viable alternative.
The Next Dimension: Does 3D Really Work? by Dan Jolin
(from the Empire Blog)
Some valuable 3D skepticism.
We've Seen Inglourious Basterds! by Chris Hewitt
(from Empire)
And finally, a glowing report/review of That Tarantino Film.
Wednesday, 20 May 2009
TV
Damages
2x13 Trust Me [season finale]
And so Damages' highly variable second season toddles to its conclusion. It's a twisty windy episode of twists and counter-twists, which rather relies on the audience just going along with it as much as genuinely understanding it. Hidden within all that are some bits that make sense and some that really don't. By the end, I wasn't sure if it was brilliantly done and amazingly written, or a total mess and dreadfully written.
Either way, season two's plot was fully wrapped up, and everything left hanging from season one was finished off too. Fresh start for season three? That's what I'm hoping for...
The Wire
2x07 Backwash
Well I never thought I'd see The Wire sink to a clichéd and predictable subplot! (I speak of the Tennis Ball Bug bits.) Much of it's still great, of course, and the plot's finally moving forward. Still not a patch on season one though.
2x13 Trust Me [season finale]
And so Damages' highly variable second season toddles to its conclusion. It's a twisty windy episode of twists and counter-twists, which rather relies on the audience just going along with it as much as genuinely understanding it. Hidden within all that are some bits that make sense and some that really don't. By the end, I wasn't sure if it was brilliantly done and amazingly written, or a total mess and dreadfully written.
Either way, season two's plot was fully wrapped up, and everything left hanging from season one was finished off too. Fresh start for season three? That's what I'm hoping for...
The Wire
2x07 Backwash
Well I never thought I'd see The Wire sink to a clichéd and predictable subplot! (I speak of the Tennis Ball Bug bits.) Much of it's still great, of course, and the plot's finally moving forward. Still not a patch on season one though.
Poetry
Hoping It Might Be So: Poems 1974-2000 by Kit Wright
Bump-Starting the Hearse (1984) (pages 120-151)
That's the end of that 'chapter' (each chapter in this volume is a book in its own right, collected here). Now I must read some other poets, because I have an essay to write that should ideally refer to lots of them.
Bump-Starting the Hearse (1984) (pages 120-151)
That's the end of that 'chapter' (each chapter in this volume is a book in its own right, collected here). Now I must read some other poets, because I have an essay to write that should ideally refer to lots of them.
Articles
Movie Reviews: Inglourious Basterds
(from Studio Briefing)
Tarantino's new film has premiered at Cannes, and the critics weren't impressed.
(from Studio Briefing)
Tarantino's new film has premiered at Cannes, and the critics weren't impressed.
Mega Shark Vs Giant Octopus trailer
Apparently this has been the talk of the Internet recently. I've rather missed that, so clearly I need to pay more attention.
Anyway, I heard about it a little while ago but finally got round to watching the trailer. Looks like suitably B-movie-esque fun. Here it is for your benefit:
Anyway, I heard about it a little while ago but finally got round to watching the trailer. Looks like suitably B-movie-esque fun. Here it is for your benefit:
Tuesday, 19 May 2009
DVD Extras
Commentary! The Musical
(from Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog)
[#26a in 100 Films in a Year 2009]
This is utterly brilliant, and worth every cent of the Amazon.com-exclusive $10.49 (+ p&p) asking price all by itself (the DVD is Region Free). I'll post a full review at 100 Films sometime, so will leave the rest of my thoughts 'til then, but this really is worth hearing for any film fan. And if you liked Dr. Horrible, it's essential.
Some more info about it can be found here.
(from Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog)
[#26a in 100 Films in a Year 2009]
This is utterly brilliant, and worth every cent of the Amazon.com-exclusive $10.49 (+ p&p) asking price all by itself (the DVD is Region Free). I'll post a full review at 100 Films sometime, so will leave the rest of my thoughts 'til then, but this really is worth hearing for any film fan. And if you liked Dr. Horrible, it's essential.
Some more info about it can be found here.
Magazines
Radio Times 23-29 May 2009
The RT's new 'Point of View' column (which began when they relaunched the mag at Easter), with its roster of ten (mostly-)famous writers ready to offer up their opinions, has produced some excellent articles so far. The stand out is still Xander Armstrong's take on Sundays, but this week's piece comes close:
Michael Parkinson bemoans ITV's cancellation of The South Bank Show, something all us intelligent TV viewers can get on board with, and also the amount of drivel that particular network broadcasts generally.
It's on page 12; you should read it.
The RT's new 'Point of View' column (which began when they relaunched the mag at Easter), with its roster of ten (mostly-)famous writers ready to offer up their opinions, has produced some excellent articles so far. The stand out is still Xander Armstrong's take on Sundays, but this week's piece comes close:
Michael Parkinson bemoans ITV's cancellation of The South Bank Show, something all us intelligent TV viewers can get on board with, and also the amount of drivel that particular network broadcasts generally.
It's on page 12; you should read it.
Articles
Battlestar Galactica - Disc-by-Disc Bonus Material Listings, Specs for Blu-ray & DVD Complete Series
and
Battlestar Galactica - Awesome New Images of Packaging for Season 4.5 Blu & Complete Series
by David Lambert
(from TVShowsOnDVD.com)
I've never seen any of the relaunched Battlestar Galactica, simply because I missed the original miniseries -- I think it clashed with something, and when the DVD came out the UK release was so inferior to the US one I refused to buy it. Later, I moved to Uni, thereby missing out on Sky and making it even harder to see -- and so even less incentive to watch.
But it's one of the most praised shows of the past few years, if not ever, and this rather beautiful and extras-packed Blu-ray set looks like a nice way to get caught up.
Also, see today's Magazines section.
and
Battlestar Galactica - Awesome New Images of Packaging for Season 4.5 Blu & Complete Series
by David Lambert
(from TVShowsOnDVD.com)
I've never seen any of the relaunched Battlestar Galactica, simply because I missed the original miniseries -- I think it clashed with something, and when the DVD came out the UK release was so inferior to the US one I refused to buy it. Later, I moved to Uni, thereby missing out on Sky and making it even harder to see -- and so even less incentive to watch.
But it's one of the most praised shows of the past few years, if not ever, and this rather beautiful and extras-packed Blu-ray set looks like a nice way to get caught up.
Also, see today's Magazines section.
Guy Ritchie's Sherlock Holmes trailer
Follow links for larger versions.
Any thoughts?
For my money, it's not really Sherlock Holmes, but it does look like an awful lot of fun as a Victorian era action/adventure movie. The final gag is especially reminiscent of the Iron Man trailer, which I feel may be the broad tone being aimed at here. At the very least, Downey Jr. has absolutely nailed the accent and should be nothing short of magnificent.
new review at 100 Films
Marnie (1964)
Read the full review at 100 Films.
There are currently 14 new films in the review pipeline at 100 Films, not to mention three shorts, a film I've previously seen, and an alternate cut. As ever, updates here as and when they're posted.
Marnie is a film grounded in the field of psychoanalysis, though that word is never used and none of the characters are a therapist. Instead, it just concerns itself with a main character suffering under the strain of repressed childhood memories... Unfortunately, psychoanalysis was only an emerging area at the time, and the price Marnie pays for being ahead of the pack in the mid ’60s is that it looks dated and inaccurate now.
Read the full review at 100 Films.
There are currently 14 new films in the review pipeline at 100 Films, not to mention three shorts, a film I've previously seen, and an alternate cut. As ever, updates here as and when they're posted.
Monday, 18 May 2009
TV
Have I Got News For You
37x04 (15/5/09 edition; uncut repeat)
An excellent edition of the topical news quiz. The current poor state of our politics is wonderful fodder for this series, which when it's on form is among the very best things on TV. Plus, guest host Rolf Harris was super -- a lovely guy and clearly game for a laugh.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Robin Hood
3x07 Too Hot to Handle
Prince John is still brilliant, but this episode wasn't -- there were several plot holes big enough for Little John to fit through. A pair of excellent fight scenes though, which does go some way toward making up for it.
From the trailer, the next episode looks oddly like a season finale. Most strange...
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
37x04 (15/5/09 edition; uncut repeat)
An excellent edition of the topical news quiz. The current poor state of our politics is wonderful fodder for this series, which when it's on form is among the very best things on TV. Plus, guest host Rolf Harris was super -- a lovely guy and clearly game for a laugh.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Robin Hood
3x07 Too Hot to Handle
Prince John is still brilliant, but this episode wasn't -- there were several plot holes big enough for Little John to fit through. A pair of excellent fight scenes though, which does go some way toward making up for it.
From the trailer, the next episode looks oddly like a season finale. Most strange...
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Non-Fiction / Art
Jack Vettriano by Jack Vettriano & Anthony Quinn
Lovers and Other Strangers: 1997 - 2000 (p102-145)
Affairs of the Heart: 2001 - 2004 (p146-183) [the end]
As I said yesterday, I like Vettriano's style, but it can become a bit samey when viewed in so concentrated a way.
Lovers and Other Strangers: 1997 - 2000 (p102-145)
Affairs of the Heart: 2001 - 2004 (p146-183) [the end]
As I said yesterday, I like Vettriano's style, but it can become a bit samey when viewed in so concentrated a way.
Articles
Are You Watching Closely? The Hidden Details We Often Miss In Movie Trailers! by Ron Henriques
(from LatinoReview.com)
A fairly long article that you might get bored with -- especially as it's a few weeks old and so contains speculation about all sorts of things we now know -- but it's worth it for the G.I. Joe/Team America comparison alone.
BFI wows with Watchmen, stuns with Star Trek by Matt Chapman
(from DVD & Blu-ray Review)
I'm a bit late in mentioning this, but still: "The BFI has revealed that its IMAX cinema in London has taken more money at the box office for Watchmen than any other cinema in the entire world, (that's all cinemas, not just IMAX!)." Impressive. Follow the link for all sorts of numbers, plus whatever it was the article had to say about Star Trek.
First Thor, Now Loki. More Thor Casting News! by George 'El Guapo' Roush
(from LatinoReview.com)
Or, "Branagh casts Wallander co-star as Thor villain".
Norton 'would take BBC pay cut' by Adam Silverstein
(from Digital Spy)
"Graham Norton has admitted that he would happily take a pay cut to stay at the BBC."
After he did a great job hosting Eurovision, another reason to like him.
(from LatinoReview.com)
A fairly long article that you might get bored with -- especially as it's a few weeks old and so contains speculation about all sorts of things we now know -- but it's worth it for the G.I. Joe/Team America comparison alone.
BFI wows with Watchmen, stuns with Star Trek by Matt Chapman
(from DVD & Blu-ray Review)
I'm a bit late in mentioning this, but still: "The BFI has revealed that its IMAX cinema in London has taken more money at the box office for Watchmen than any other cinema in the entire world, (that's all cinemas, not just IMAX!)." Impressive. Follow the link for all sorts of numbers, plus whatever it was the article had to say about Star Trek.
First Thor, Now Loki. More Thor Casting News! by George 'El Guapo' Roush
(from LatinoReview.com)
Or, "Branagh casts Wallander co-star as Thor villain".
Norton 'would take BBC pay cut' by Adam Silverstein
(from Digital Spy)
"Graham Norton has admitted that he would happily take a pay cut to stay at the BBC."
After he did a great job hosting Eurovision, another reason to like him.
Sunday, 17 May 2009
TV
The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency
1x05 Beauty and Integrity
An unusually downbeat episode, with even BK being remorseful at one point. This series has hidden depths.
1x05 Beauty and Integrity
An unusually downbeat episode, with even BK being remorseful at one point. This series has hidden depths.
Non-Fiction / Art
Jack Vettriano by Jack Vettriano & Anthony Quinn
Tales of Love and Other Stories: 1987 - 1993 (p12-45)
The Passion and the Pain: 1994 - 1996 (p46-101)
I like Vettriano's art -- not necessarily the stuff you see plastered all over cards, but his darker, noir-ish pieces. Every painting tells a story, has a world outside its edges. His style reminds of Edward Hopper, another favourite.
Tales of Love and Other Stories: 1987 - 1993 (p12-45)
The Passion and the Pain: 1994 - 1996 (p46-101)
I like Vettriano's art -- not necessarily the stuff you see plastered all over cards, but his darker, noir-ish pieces. Every painting tells a story, has a world outside its edges. His style reminds of Edward Hopper, another favourite.
Articles
Peter Moffat's BAFTA award-winning Criminal Justice returns to BBC One and stars Maxine Peake as a woman in desperate trouble
(from BBC Press Office)
The first series was excellent, and this second one -- which tells a brand-new story with all-new characters -- has attracted an equally starry cast (more so, perhaps) and sounds totally different but just as promising.
(from BBC Press Office)
The first series was excellent, and this second one -- which tells a brand-new story with all-new characters -- has attracted an equally starry cast (more so, perhaps) and sounds totally different but just as promising.
Saturday, 16 May 2009
TV
Eurovision Song Contest: Moscow 2009
A year of real change for Eurovision, with a new voting system designed to eradicate the bloc voting that has plagued the contest for the past few years, and popular host Terry Wogan being replaced by (obvious choice) Graham Norton. On top of that, the UK actually took it seriously this year...
and was rewarded with 5th place, a phenomenal achievement after consistently placing last for most of the past decade. This year, our score was up by an incredibly 1,236% on last year! Graham made for a great host too -- he was clearly nervous at the start, but once he settled into it he was brilliant. A bit too chatty for some, and not quite as cynical as old Tel, but very funny nonetheless. Musically it was a relatively strong year too.
That said, I honestly don't see the appeal of winners Norway -- what could possibly beat the Ukraine's entry, an even gayer version of 300?
A year of real change for Eurovision, with a new voting system designed to eradicate the bloc voting that has plagued the contest for the past few years, and popular host Terry Wogan being replaced by (obvious choice) Graham Norton. On top of that, the UK actually took it seriously this year...
and was rewarded with 5th place, a phenomenal achievement after consistently placing last for most of the past decade. This year, our score was up by an incredibly 1,236% on last year! Graham made for a great host too -- he was clearly nervous at the start, but once he settled into it he was brilliant. A bit too chatty for some, and not quite as cynical as old Tel, but very funny nonetheless. Musically it was a relatively strong year too.
That said, I honestly don't see the appeal of winners Norway -- what could possibly beat the Ukraine's entry, an even gayer version of 300?
Films
Dark Floors (2008)
[#26 in 100 Films in a Year 2009]
In honour of Eurovision, this is the horror movie starring 2006's winners, Lordi.
[#26 in 100 Films in a Year 2009]
In honour of Eurovision, this is the horror movie starring 2006's winners, Lordi.
Articles
Anthony Hopkins to reprise Lecter role by Tim Parks
(from Digital Spy)
Considering the only Hannibal Lecter film that's considered to be much cop is Silence of the Lambs -- and there have been three since then -- is this really a good idea? I suppose if they make money no one cares...
(In case anyone points out Manhunter, that's technically a Lecktor film.)
Primeval movie confirmed by Dan French
(from Digital Spy)
So the rumours were true. But will it be a continuation of the series, a reboot of some kind, or a US-set spin off? All viable options, though I'd imagine the second two are most likely.
Rome might not be history, series creator says by James Hibberd
(from Reuters)
I liked Rome, though never got round to the second season. Just bought the whole lot on DVD, so will aim to soon. Anyway, this sounds promising... if it gets made.
(from Digital Spy)
Considering the only Hannibal Lecter film that's considered to be much cop is Silence of the Lambs -- and there have been three since then -- is this really a good idea? I suppose if they make money no one cares...
(In case anyone points out Manhunter, that's technically a Lecktor film.)
Primeval movie confirmed by Dan French
(from Digital Spy)
So the rumours were true. But will it be a continuation of the series, a reboot of some kind, or a US-set spin off? All viable options, though I'd imagine the second two are most likely.
Rome might not be history, series creator says by James Hibberd
(from Reuters)
I liked Rome, though never got round to the second season. Just bought the whole lot on DVD, so will aim to soon. Anyway, this sounds promising... if it gets made.
new review at 100 Films
Angels & Demons (2009)
Read the full review at 100 Films.
There are currently 14 new films in the review pipeline at 100 Films, not to mention two shorts, a film I've previously seen, and an alternate cut. As ever, updates here as and when they're posted.
It may come as a surprise that Angels & Demons has a subtly different feel to its predecessor, The Da Vinci Code. It still concerns itself with Tom Hanks’ Langdon dashing about trying to solve insanely cryptic clues in a limited timeframe, surrounded by irritating policeman, suspicious friendly characters, and a girl who is almost pointless. However, it’s a lot less talky, more pacey, and, perhaps, aware of its own silliness.
Read the full review at 100 Films.
There are currently 14 new films in the review pipeline at 100 Films, not to mention two shorts, a film I've previously seen, and an alternate cut. As ever, updates here as and when they're posted.
Friday, 15 May 2009
TV
Boy Meets Girl
Part 2 (of 4)
Part 3 (of 4)
Despite being overstretched at four hours, this is occasionally very good, if also a bit random. Fingers crossed next week's final part can tie it all together appropriately.
In the lead role, incidentally, Rachael Stirling is absolutely phenomenal. Hopefully she'll be remembered come the next awards season -- she'd deserve the lot -- but as I doubt the programme will be remembered that far away, her chances must be slim.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
The Graham Norton Show
5x09 (7/5/09 edition, uncut repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Part 2 (of 4)
Part 3 (of 4)
Despite being overstretched at four hours, this is occasionally very good, if also a bit random. Fingers crossed next week's final part can tie it all together appropriately.
In the lead role, incidentally, Rachael Stirling is absolutely phenomenal. Hopefully she'll be remembered come the next awards season -- she'd deserve the lot -- but as I doubt the programme will be remembered that far away, her chances must be slim.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
The Graham Norton Show
5x09 (7/5/09 edition, uncut repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Articles
50 Cent and Forest Whitaker are Jekyll and Hyde by Sean
(from Film Junk)
That's certainly some unusual casting. I don't know which should be which though.
(from Film Junk)
That's certainly some unusual casting. I don't know which should be which though.
Poem of the Week: 'You cannot hope...'
by Humbert Wolfe
A brief one this week and Wolfe's most famous piece, as evidenced by its prominent inclusion on his Wikipedia entry. Though it was first published in 1930, it's decidedly truthful to this day.
Discovered in The Nation's Favourite Comic Verse (as will be the next couple of Poem of the Week entries), but originally published in The Uncelestial City.
A brief one this week and Wolfe's most famous piece, as evidenced by its prominent inclusion on his Wikipedia entry. Though it was first published in 1930, it's decidedly truthful to this day.
You cannot hope
to bribe or twist,
thank God! the
British journalist.
But, seeing what
the man will do
unbribed, there's
no occasion to.
Discovered in The Nation's Favourite Comic Verse (as will be the next couple of Poem of the Week entries), but originally published in The Uncelestial City.
Thursday, 14 May 2009
TV
The Mentalist
1x08 The Thin Red Line
[Watch it (again) on Demand Five.]
The Wire
2x06 All Prologue
Halfway through the season now, but -- a couple of the subplots aside -- so little has happened that it feels like it's barely begun. I'm beginning to see why some were surprised and disappointed when this first aired, and why many still regard it as one of the poorer seasons.
1x08 The Thin Red Line
[Watch it (again) on Demand Five.]
The Wire
2x06 All Prologue
Halfway through the season now, but -- a couple of the subplots aside -- so little has happened that it feels like it's barely begun. I'm beginning to see why some were surprised and disappointed when this first aired, and why many still regard it as one of the poorer seasons.
Films
Angels & Demons (2009)
[#25 in 100 Films in a Year 2009]
Saving Private Ryan (1998)
[2nd watch]
This is 11 years old now! Time flies.
[#25 in 100 Films in a Year 2009]
Saving Private Ryan (1998)
[2nd watch]
This is 11 years old now! Time flies.
Articles
Star Trek In-Jokes
(from Empire)
"All the Trekker references in JJ Abrams' franchise reboot." Though they seem to have missed a couple.
Star Trek: warp factor sex by Sady Doyle
(from guardian.co.uk)
It feels like flogging a dead horse to still be mentioning Star Trek -- and after only a week on release too -- but this article/review is both accurate and brilliant, and therefore deserves your attention (whatever you thought of the film).
“You stinky!” - Hong Kong’s funniest subtitles
and
“Damn you, Fatty!” - More funny subtitles from Hong Kong movies by Cal
(from Heroes of the East)
Unendingly hilarious. To quote any here would be to spoil the fun.
(from Empire)
"All the Trekker references in JJ Abrams' franchise reboot." Though they seem to have missed a couple.
Star Trek: warp factor sex by Sady Doyle
(from guardian.co.uk)
It feels like flogging a dead horse to still be mentioning Star Trek -- and after only a week on release too -- but this article/review is both accurate and brilliant, and therefore deserves your attention (whatever you thought of the film).
“You stinky!” - Hong Kong’s funniest subtitles
and
“Damn you, Fatty!” - More funny subtitles from Hong Kong movies by Cal
(from Heroes of the East)
Unendingly hilarious. To quote any here would be to spoil the fun.
Wednesday, 13 May 2009
TV
Broken Saints
Chapter 24 Truth [finale episode]
See here for my thoughts on this chapter.
The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency
1x04 Problems in Moral Philosophy
For a programme that's so perfect for Sunday night -- genteel, funny, nice -- the episodes seem to go by awfully quickly. Which is a good thing -- Lark Rise..., for example, does drag so.
The Wire
2x05 Undertow
The Wire hasn't gone totally off the ball, but some scenes in this season lack the could-be-a-documentary realism of the first. And I'm not talking some shaky handheld style thing here (thankfully, the makers of The Wire seem to know about tripods and Steadicams -- perhaps they could lend some to J.J. Abrams), but the dialogue and performances. It's not throughout, but just occasionally it feels much more 'fictional' than before -- no problem in much shows, but it belies what made this series so different and so good.
Chapter 24 Truth [finale episode]
See here for my thoughts on this chapter.
The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency
1x04 Problems in Moral Philosophy
For a programme that's so perfect for Sunday night -- genteel, funny, nice -- the episodes seem to go by awfully quickly. Which is a good thing -- Lark Rise..., for example, does drag so.
The Wire
2x05 Undertow
The Wire hasn't gone totally off the ball, but some scenes in this season lack the could-be-a-documentary realism of the first. And I'm not talking some shaky handheld style thing here (thankfully, the makers of The Wire seem to know about tripods and Steadicams -- perhaps they could lend some to J.J. Abrams), but the dialogue and performances. It's not throughout, but just occasionally it feels much more 'fictional' than before -- no problem in much shows, but it belies what made this series so different and so good.
Articles
Cannes 2009: Up first reaction! by Jamie Graham
(from Total Film)
"Pixar's latest opens Cannes to eye-popping effect" say Total Film. Sounds more promising than it looks.
How To Cheat A Reboot: Star Trek's Kobayashi Maru Solution by Dan Jolin
(from the Empire Blog)
Far too much has been written about Star Trek now, but this article's different perspective makes it worth bothering with.
Review of Fast & Furious by gproject
(from Slate Scrawl)
Sounds about as good as I hoped (I say hoped -- I wasn't actively wishing it would be any good), which does increase my chances of seeing it as I thought it would probably be worse.
Vindictive Movie Studio Threatens To Make Coyote Ugly Sequel
(from the Onion)
Don't worry, it's a spoof. (To all teenage boys thinking, "what do you mean 'don't worry'?! I'm upset it's not real", you can just go watch the DVD of the first one again. Or try Bring It On.)
(from Total Film)
"Pixar's latest opens Cannes to eye-popping effect" say Total Film. Sounds more promising than it looks.
How To Cheat A Reboot: Star Trek's Kobayashi Maru Solution by Dan Jolin
(from the Empire Blog)
Far too much has been written about Star Trek now, but this article's different perspective makes it worth bothering with.
Review of Fast & Furious by gproject
(from Slate Scrawl)
Sounds about as good as I hoped (I say hoped -- I wasn't actively wishing it would be any good), which does increase my chances of seeing it as I thought it would probably be worse.
Vindictive Movie Studio Threatens To Make Coyote Ugly Sequel
(from the Onion)
Don't worry, it's a spoof. (To all teenage boys thinking, "what do you mean 'don't worry'?! I'm upset it's not real", you can just go watch the DVD of the first one again. Or try Bring It On.)
Broken Saints - Chapter 24: Truth
24 episodes, 10½ hours, 5 months of my time -- I've finally reach the end of "The Animated Comic Epic"!
The final certainly has a lot to live up to, especially as it makes up about 13% of the series' length. It does its best, tying together a lot of complex plot strands and information to round off the plot and offer some deeper meaning -- or at least, try to. Some of it is borrowed heavily from elsewhere -- most obviously Watchmen, from which several elements are taken -- and this can be distracting. A sympathetic eye can easily easy to see why those bits were selected however.
Some of the usual flaws are still evident -- an over technical bit of hacking from Raimi is particularly irritating, slowing the otherwise well constructed pace (a welcome change). On the other hand, he pretentiousness finally seems grounded in something worth listening to -- some of it, anyway.
It's difficult to say if Broken Saints is worth all the effort. Some will love it, especially wannabe-philosophers, whereas others will unquestionably hate it. I'm somewhere in between, as usual, but can say that I will at some point watch it again, and see how much more (if anything) can be gained from watching it all knowing how it ends.
For all my posts related to Broken Saints, please look here.
The final certainly has a lot to live up to, especially as it makes up about 13% of the series' length. It does its best, tying together a lot of complex plot strands and information to round off the plot and offer some deeper meaning -- or at least, try to. Some of it is borrowed heavily from elsewhere -- most obviously Watchmen, from which several elements are taken -- and this can be distracting. A sympathetic eye can easily easy to see why those bits were selected however.
Some of the usual flaws are still evident -- an over technical bit of hacking from Raimi is particularly irritating, slowing the otherwise well constructed pace (a welcome change). On the other hand, he pretentiousness finally seems grounded in something worth listening to -- some of it, anyway.
It's difficult to say if Broken Saints is worth all the effort. Some will love it, especially wannabe-philosophers, whereas others will unquestionably hate it. I'm somewhere in between, as usual, but can say that I will at some point watch it again, and see how much more (if anything) can be gained from watching it all knowing how it ends.
For all my posts related to Broken Saints, please look here.
Tuesday, 12 May 2009
TV
Broken Saints
Chapter 23 Ascent
See here for my thoughts on this chapter.
The Omid Djalili Show
2x04 Episode 4
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Wire
2x04 Hard Cases
The Wire's second season seems to be suffering under the same problems that seem to blight most second seasons these days: a lack of focus and struggling to retain or recreate the elements that made the first so great. Still, we're only a third of the way in, there's plenty of time yet.
Chapter 23 Ascent
See here for my thoughts on this chapter.
The Omid Djalili Show
2x04 Episode 4
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
The Wire
2x04 Hard Cases
The Wire's second season seems to be suffering under the same problems that seem to blight most second seasons these days: a lack of focus and struggling to retain or recreate the elements that made the first so great. Still, we're only a third of the way in, there's plenty of time yet.
Articles
Sam Mendes Says Preacher Script Is Half-Done, ‘Plenty Left Over’ For Sequels by Silas Lesnick
(from MTV Splash Page)
There's way too much in Preacher for just one film, but it sounds Mendes has the right handle on how to bring this to the screen: make one excellent standalone film and hope it does well enough to allow for more. Though considering Preacher's overarching story, some of that may be tricky. It's an excellent series though, so fingers crossed.
Warner Bros. And Facebook Team Up For Watchmen Blu-Ray Feature by Josh Wigler
(from MTV Splash Page)
This sounds decidedly odd, but potentially interesting. The full announcement for the US DVD/Blu-ray release can be found here. It'll be interesting to see how much more will be found on the eventual Ultimate Edition (which will include an even longer cut of the film).
The William Shatner Kirk Cameo that was cut from the Script
(from GeekTyrant)
Of the new Star Trek, of course. He really would've been shoehorned in, just like J.J. Abrams said. A wise cut to have made.
(from MTV Splash Page)
There's way too much in Preacher for just one film, but it sounds Mendes has the right handle on how to bring this to the screen: make one excellent standalone film and hope it does well enough to allow for more. Though considering Preacher's overarching story, some of that may be tricky. It's an excellent series though, so fingers crossed.
Warner Bros. And Facebook Team Up For Watchmen Blu-Ray Feature by Josh Wigler
(from MTV Splash Page)
This sounds decidedly odd, but potentially interesting. The full announcement for the US DVD/Blu-ray release can be found here. It'll be interesting to see how much more will be found on the eventual Ultimate Edition (which will include an even longer cut of the film).
The William Shatner Kirk Cameo that was cut from the Script
(from GeekTyrant)
Of the new Star Trek, of course. He really would've been shoehorned in, just like J.J. Abrams said. A wise cut to have made.
Broken Saints - Chapter 23: Ascent
No series has ever been worse for spouting endless irrelevant technical jargon than Broken Saints. Along with the rambling pretension, you have to wonder how much shorter the 12-hour series would've been if they'd had a decent script editor involved.
Despite that, this penultimate part manages to further the plot a decent amount, and even bring in a handful of twists and revelations (some blatant, some perhaps surprising). There's still plenty left to be revealed however, and it pulls off an ending that made me anxious to see the final feature-length episode -- though quite how there's enough story left to fill almost an hour and a half will be interesting to see.
It's around these final few chapters that one also realises that, while it seems as if almost nothing has happened over the preceding 10 hours, there's actually been quite a lot of rather complex plot tucked away under all the time wasting. In fact, some of that time wasting (by no means all, but some) wasn't actually time wasting at all, just elements whose meaning would be revealed later. Much later.
It's this kind of thing that makes me think Broken Saints will benefit from a second viewing, once I've seen the ending. But certainly not straight away.
Despite that, this penultimate part manages to further the plot a decent amount, and even bring in a handful of twists and revelations (some blatant, some perhaps surprising). There's still plenty left to be revealed however, and it pulls off an ending that made me anxious to see the final feature-length episode -- though quite how there's enough story left to fill almost an hour and a half will be interesting to see.
It's around these final few chapters that one also realises that, while it seems as if almost nothing has happened over the preceding 10 hours, there's actually been quite a lot of rather complex plot tucked away under all the time wasting. In fact, some of that time wasting (by no means all, but some) wasn't actually time wasting at all, just elements whose meaning would be revealed later. Much later.
It's this kind of thing that makes me think Broken Saints will benefit from a second viewing, once I've seen the ending. But certainly not straight away.
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