The New 52: Futures End #0 by Brian Azzarello, Jeff Lemire, Dan Jurgens, Keith Giffen, Ethan Van Sciver, Patrick Zircher, Aaron Lopresti & Jesus Merino
Yes, that's right: DC's contribution to FCBD 2014 has four credited writers and five credited pencillers! (If you only counted eight above, you're right: Dan Jurgens has a credit for both.) And for all that, it's not a story that's piqued my interest to read the full series, which started earlier this month.
Saturday, 24 May 2014
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
This week, a couple of new BDs push my film total over the 1,800 mark. Based on the two years that I've done "since last year" increase tallies (2013 and 2011), I'll probably cross the 2,000 mark in July 2015. Unless I finally start reducing my collection, of course...
Number of titles in collection: 1,675 [up 2]
Of which DVDs: 1,202 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 473 [up 2]
Number of discs in collection: 4,168 [up 2]
Number of films in collection: 1,801 [up 2]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 6,126 [no change]
Number of short films in collection: 409 [no change]
See you next week, faithful reader.
This week, a couple of new BDs push my film total over the 1,800 mark. Based on the two years that I've done "since last year" increase tallies (2013 and 2011), I'll probably cross the 2,000 mark in July 2015. Unless I finally start reducing my collection, of course...
Number of titles in collection: 1,675 [up 2]
Of which DVDs: 1,202 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 473 [up 2]
Number of discs in collection: 4,168 [up 2]
Number of films in collection: 1,801 [up 2]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 6,126 [no change]
Number of short films in collection: 409 [no change]
See you next week, faithful reader.
Friday, 23 May 2014
TV
Arrow
2x23 Unthinkable [season finale]
They seemed to pile everything on extra thick for the finale -- not only the epic action, but also the cheese. S'all good fun though.
Elementary
2x24 The Grand Experiment [season finale]
Pretty sure there's no experiment in this, grand or otherwise.
Episodes
3x02 Episode 2
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Gavin & Stacey
1x06 Episode 6 [season finale; 2nd watch]
2x23 Unthinkable [season finale]
They seemed to pile everything on extra thick for the finale -- not only the epic action, but also the cheese. S'all good fun though.
Elementary
2x24 The Grand Experiment [season finale]
Pretty sure there's no experiment in this, grand or otherwise.
Episodes
3x02 Episode 2
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Gavin & Stacey
1x06 Episode 6 [season finale; 2nd watch]
Films
Doctor Who: Celebrating 50 Years of Fandom
A Kickstarted Who documentary, due for release to mark the 50th anniversary but which finally turned up in the past month or so. It's a somewhat unfocused affair, with a random grab-bag of interviewees sharing their Who-related stories.
When it does hone in on a topic, like the appeal of conventions, or the effect of the revived series, or the gender of fans, it often raises interesting ideas but then fails to explore them further. There are several almost-throwaway remarks from interviewees which have the most potential for genuine interest here, but there never followed up on. It's a shame the filmmakers didn't put that extra effort into their film's construction.
There's a good documentary to be made exploring the details of fandom -- the story of it, the whys of it, the ways in which it's changed, the good and the bad of it -- but, sadly, this only skims the surface.
If you still fancy seeing the documentary, you can buy it on DVD, Blu-ray or HD download here, or stream it for £2.49 from here.
A Kickstarted Who documentary, due for release to mark the 50th anniversary but which finally turned up in the past month or so. It's a somewhat unfocused affair, with a random grab-bag of interviewees sharing their Who-related stories.
When it does hone in on a topic, like the appeal of conventions, or the effect of the revived series, or the gender of fans, it often raises interesting ideas but then fails to explore them further. There are several almost-throwaway remarks from interviewees which have the most potential for genuine interest here, but there never followed up on. It's a shame the filmmakers didn't put that extra effort into their film's construction.
There's a good documentary to be made exploring the details of fandom -- the story of it, the whys of it, the ways in which it's changed, the good and the bad of it -- but, sadly, this only skims the surface.
If you still fancy seeing the documentary, you can buy it on DVD, Blu-ray or HD download here, or stream it for £2.49 from here.
Comics
Rocket Raccoon: Free Comic Book Day by Joe Caramagna, Adam Archer & Ty Templeton
Marvel are very obviously pitching Rocket to be the break-out star of their late summer blockbuster, Guardians of the Galaxy: there's already tonnes of merchandise announced featuring him, there's a new on-going comic coming up, and he was the star of their FCBD offering this year.
In two short 10-page tales (one a reprint), Caramagna demonstrates that it's perfectly possible to tell a decent, self-contained story -- and if he can do it in ten, why the hell can't most comic book writers do it in 20?! OK, so these are simple, fun, all-ages quickies, not the grown-up in-depth tales most comic book fans expect nowadays, but I think the point stands -- it can be done.
Marvel are very obviously pitching Rocket to be the break-out star of their late summer blockbuster, Guardians of the Galaxy: there's already tonnes of merchandise announced featuring him, there's a new on-going comic coming up, and he was the star of their FCBD offering this year.
In two short 10-page tales (one a reprint), Caramagna demonstrates that it's perfectly possible to tell a decent, self-contained story -- and if he can do it in ten, why the hell can't most comic book writers do it in 20?! OK, so these are simple, fun, all-ages quickies, not the grown-up in-depth tales most comic book fans expect nowadays, but I think the point stands -- it can be done.
Articles
Edgar Wright Departs Ant-Man
by James White (from Empire)
Well here's something no one saw coming! Wright's been working on an Ant-Man movie since before the MCU began (with Iron Man in 2008), and had recently cast it and got deep into pre-production. Bet there must be a juicy behind-the-scenes story there...
by James White (from Empire)
Well here's something no one saw coming! Wright's been working on an Ant-Man movie since before the MCU began (with Iron Man in 2008), and had recently cast it and got deep into pre-production. Bet there must be a juicy behind-the-scenes story there...
Thursday, 22 May 2014
TV
Brooklyn Nine-Nine
1x18 The Apartment
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Gavin & Stacey
1x04 Episode 4 [2nd watch]
1x05 Episode 5 [2nd watch]
1x18 The Apartment
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Gavin & Stacey
1x04 Episode 4 [2nd watch]
1x05 Episode 5 [2nd watch]
Comics
Batman Eternal #6 by Ray Fawkes & Trevor McCarthy with Scott Snyder, James Tynion IV, John Layman & Tim Seeley
Apparently the team are setting a bunch of story lines in motion over four or five issues at this point (starting with #4, though that was tied to the main story (or what was apparently the main story) so it was less obvious). The problem with that style of storytelling is nothing seems to be moving forward, and you have to keep track of a ton of things all at once. (I'm certainly not the only one feeling this.)
This issue feels particularly slight, not helped by its style: out of 20 story pages, a ridiculous six are splash pages. Only one or two of those are earned, meaning the rest just pad out an overly-short story.
After an exciting and promising opening salvo, Eternal is losing its way right now. Fingers crossed they can pull it back.
Apparently the team are setting a bunch of story lines in motion over four or five issues at this point (starting with #4, though that was tied to the main story (or what was apparently the main story) so it was less obvious). The problem with that style of storytelling is nothing seems to be moving forward, and you have to keep track of a ton of things all at once. (I'm certainly not the only one feeling this.)
This issue feels particularly slight, not helped by its style: out of 20 story pages, a ridiculous six are splash pages. Only one or two of those are earned, meaning the rest just pad out an overly-short story.
After an exciting and promising opening salvo, Eternal is losing its way right now. Fingers crossed they can pull it back.
Wednesday, 21 May 2014
TV
Arrow
2x21 City of Blood
2x22 Streets of Fire
I happened to read some of a review that said City of Blood felt very much like "Part 1 of 2". The advantage to being a couple of weeks behind is I was able to watch both of these back to back. Unfortunately, it was actually "Part 1 of 3". On the bright side, the finale is on tomorrow -- not too long to wait.
Elementary
2x23 Art in the Blood
Gavin & Stacey
1x03 Episode 3 [2nd watch]
2x21 City of Blood
2x22 Streets of Fire
I happened to read some of a review that said City of Blood felt very much like "Part 1 of 2". The advantage to being a couple of weeks behind is I was able to watch both of these back to back. Unfortunately, it was actually "Part 1 of 3". On the bright side, the finale is on tomorrow -- not too long to wait.
Elementary
2x23 Art in the Blood
Gavin & Stacey
1x03 Episode 3 [2nd watch]
Films
A Beautiful Mind (2001)
[#39 in 100 Films in a Year 2014]
LOVEFiLM didn't bother to send me a replacement disc, so I watched the remaining 90 minutes via an HD download.
[#39 in 100 Films in a Year 2014]
LOVEFiLM didn't bother to send me a replacement disc, so I watched the remaining 90 minutes via an HD download.
Articles
Batman vs Superman movie named Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice
by Greg Laing (from Digital Spy)
If everyone's been calling your film Batman vs Superman, why would you title it Batman v Superman?! It's a silly little difference that just draws attention to itself, as evidenced by the abundance of headlines and tweets like this one.
by Greg Laing (from Digital Spy)
If everyone's been calling your film Batman vs Superman, why would you title it Batman v Superman?! It's a silly little difference that just draws attention to itself, as evidenced by the abundance of headlines and tweets like this one.
Tuesday, 20 May 2014
TV
Castle
3x24 Knockout [season finale]
I knew they were going somewhere with Montgomery, the way they'd been building him up through the last few episodes.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Game of Thrones
4x05 First of His Name
Bit of a "move the pieces into place" episode, but hey-ho, you need those sometimes.
Gavin & Stacey
1x02 Episode 2 [2nd watch]
The Mentalist
6x19 Brown Eyed Girls
3x24 Knockout [season finale]
I knew they were going somewhere with Montgomery, the way they'd been building him up through the last few episodes.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Game of Thrones
4x05 First of His Name
Bit of a "move the pieces into place" episode, but hey-ho, you need those sometimes.
Gavin & Stacey
1x02 Episode 2 [2nd watch]
The Mentalist
6x19 Brown Eyed Girls
Monday, 19 May 2014
TV
24
8x23 2:00PM - 3:00PM
8x24 3:00PM - 4:00PM [series finale]
Here's a philosophical question for you: if something is made as a last-ever episode -- a series finale -- but then later they bring the series back, is it still a series finale? And does it make a difference if the revival is under a slightly different name?
That shouldn't really be my main concern after an Exciting Two-Hour 24 Finale, really, should it; but the episodes themselves were a little silly, and poorly paced, and the ending saw both the villains vanquished and Jack proved right and Jack having to go on the run because he did wrong. Does that even make sense? Not convinced. Having your cake and eating it, etc. This is what happens when you're desperate to leave things open-ended for the movie you're hoping to make.
Gavin & Stacey
1x01 Episode 1 [3rd watch]
Here's my latest comedy re-watch, then.
8x23 2:00PM - 3:00PM
8x24 3:00PM - 4:00PM [series finale]
Here's a philosophical question for you: if something is made as a last-ever episode -- a series finale -- but then later they bring the series back, is it still a series finale? And does it make a difference if the revival is under a slightly different name?
That shouldn't really be my main concern after an Exciting Two-Hour 24 Finale, really, should it; but the episodes themselves were a little silly, and poorly paced, and the ending saw both the villains vanquished and Jack proved right and Jack having to go on the run because he did wrong. Does that even make sense? Not convinced. Having your cake and eating it, etc. This is what happens when you're desperate to leave things open-ended for the movie you're hoping to make.
Gavin & Stacey
1x01 Episode 1 [3rd watch]
Here's my latest comedy re-watch, then.
Comics
Kill Shakespeare #1 by Conor McCreery, Anthony Del Col & Andy Belanger
Another give-it-a-go cut-price #1 reprint. Didn't care for this as much, though; though not as little as some people did.
Another give-it-a-go cut-price #1 reprint. Didn't care for this as much, though; though not as little as some people did.
Sunday, 18 May 2014
TV
24
8x22 1:00PM - 2:00PM
"There's two episodes left?! Aw crap, we jumped the gun! Right, new big bad..."
The British Academy Television Awards 2014
Hooray Doctor Who!
[Watch it (again) soon on iPlayer.]
Have I Got News For You
47x05 (2/5/2014 edition; extended repeat)
8x22 1:00PM - 2:00PM
"There's two episodes left?! Aw crap, we jumped the gun! Right, new big bad..."
The British Academy Television Awards 2014
Hooray Doctor Who!
[Watch it (again) soon on iPlayer.]
Have I Got News For You
47x05 (2/5/2014 edition; extended repeat)
Films
A Beautiful Mind (2001)
[#39 in 100 Films in a Year 2014]
The first 45 minutes (which is exactly (exactly) the first third of the movie), before my rental disc gave up the ghost. Feels like that's been happening a lot recently...
[#39 in 100 Films in a Year 2014]
The first 45 minutes (which is exactly (exactly) the first third of the movie), before my rental disc gave up the ghost. Feels like that's been happening a lot recently...
Comics
American Vampire #1 by Scott Snyder & Rafael Albuquerque
American Vampire's been going for a few years, lots of people seem to love it, it's by Scott Snyder (who writes an incredible Batman), so when they republished issue 1 for $1* as part of the 'Vertigo Essentials' thing I thought I'd give it a go.
And it is really good. Which means now I want the graphic novel(s), of which there are already five volumes and counting. Eh.
* which somehow ends up being £1 here. C'est la vie.
American Vampire's been going for a few years, lots of people seem to love it, it's by Scott Snyder (who writes an incredible Batman), so when they republished issue 1 for $1* as part of the 'Vertigo Essentials' thing I thought I'd give it a go.
And it is really good. Which means now I want the graphic novel(s), of which there are already five volumes and counting. Eh.
* which somehow ends up being £1 here. C'est la vie.
Articles
Twin Peaks - 'The Entire Mystery' Blu-ray Set: Every Episode, The Movie, New Extras!
by David Lambert (from TVShowsOnDVD.com)
O. M. G.
OK, so I've had the Gold Box for years and I've not watched it (I saw the pilot and season one years ago), but this is so awesome, so full of features, many of them long-awaited, that I'll have to jump on it day one. Feels like a waste, like I should mission through the previous edition now... but if I do that, I won't want to watch the BDs immediately... and oh, all that lovely HD quality...!
Ah well, at least the Gold Box was a present.
by David Lambert (from TVShowsOnDVD.com)
O. M. G.
OK, so I've had the Gold Box for years and I've not watched it (I saw the pilot and season one years ago), but this is so awesome, so full of features, many of them long-awaited, that I'll have to jump on it day one. Feels like a waste, like I should mission through the previous edition now... but if I do that, I won't want to watch the BDs immediately... and oh, all that lovely HD quality...!
Ah well, at least the Gold Box was a present.
this week on 100 Films
One new review was published to 100 Films in a Year this week, and it was...
Visions of Light (1992)
Plus, new to the new blog...
Monsters (2010)
More next Sunday.
Visions of Light (1992)
Initially a whistlestop history of film photography, it segues into analysis of movies the interviewed DPs had shot. Unfortunately, casual film fans may judge it monotopical, while hardened cineastes may find it a haphazard, Hollywood-centric overview.Read more here.
Plus, new to the new blog...
Monsters (2010)
Expecting an epic SF-action movie where soldiers kitted out with futuristic weaponry battle an alien menace? You might be disappointed. Indeed, the relatively low IMDb rating suggests people have been. Monsters isn’t an action movie. It’s barely a sci-fi movie. And that’s not a bad thing.Read more here.
More next Sunday.
Saturday, 17 May 2014
Comics
Batman Eternal #5 by James Tynion IV & Andy Clarke with Scott Snyder, Ray Fawkes, John Layman & Tim Seeley
I'm having to pay slightly over what I normally would to keep up with this as a weekly rather than wait for it as part of my monthly subscription bundle; but as I felt like I'd skipped an issue after just an 11 day gap since I read the last two, I think I'm right to want to keep on top of it.
Engrossing as it is, references to 'recent events' in the Bat-world remind me I really should catch up on the massive pile of backlogged comics I have. (If only I had genuinely kept them all in one convenient pile that I could easily dive in to...)
I'm having to pay slightly over what I normally would to keep up with this as a weekly rather than wait for it as part of my monthly subscription bundle; but as I felt like I'd skipped an issue after just an 11 day gap since I read the last two, I think I'm right to want to keep on top of it.
Engrossing as it is, references to 'recent events' in the Bat-world remind me I really should catch up on the massive pile of backlogged comics I have. (If only I had genuinely kept them all in one convenient pile that I could easily dive in to...)
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
This week, a couple of new-release BDs and sale DVDs give this month's running time a last-minute boost...
Number of titles in collection: 1,673 [up 5]
Of which DVDs: 1,202 [up 3]
Of which Blu-rays: 471 [up 2]
Number of discs in collection: 4,166 [up 5]
Number of films in collection: 1,799 [up 6]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 6,126 [no change]
Number of short films in collection: 409 [no change]
And that monthly running time update...
Total running time of collection (approx.):
298 days, 8 hours, and 17 minutes.
(Up 16 hours and 1 minute from last month.)
See you next week, faithful reader.
This week, a couple of new-release BDs and sale DVDs give this month's running time a last-minute boost...
Number of titles in collection: 1,673 [up 5]
Of which DVDs: 1,202 [up 3]
Of which Blu-rays: 471 [up 2]
Number of discs in collection: 4,166 [up 5]
Number of films in collection: 1,799 [up 6]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 6,126 [no change]
Number of short films in collection: 409 [no change]
And that monthly running time update...
Total running time of collection (approx.):
298 days, 8 hours, and 17 minutes.
(Up 16 hours and 1 minute from last month.)
See you next week, faithful reader.
Friday, 16 May 2014
TV
24
8x20 11:00AM - 12:00PM
Castle
3x23 Pretty Dead
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Episodes
3x01 Episode 1
The hardest programme to find in my blog's archive returns after nearly two years away. And it's still very good, so that's nice.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
8x20 11:00AM - 12:00PM
Castle
3x23 Pretty Dead
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Episodes
3x01 Episode 1
The hardest programme to find in my blog's archive returns after nearly two years away. And it's still very good, so that's nice.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Thursday, 15 May 2014
TV
24
8x19 10:00AM - 11:00AM
Arrow
2x20 Seeing Red
Seeing Filler, more like. Aside from a Very Dramatic ending, they could've done without this episode.
Elementary
2x21 The Man with the Twisted Lip
How I Met Your Mother
9x15 Unpause
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
8x19 10:00AM - 11:00AM
Arrow
2x20 Seeing Red
Seeing Filler, more like. Aside from a Very Dramatic ending, they could've done without this episode.
Elementary
2x21 The Man with the Twisted Lip
How I Met Your Mother
9x15 Unpause
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Wednesday, 14 May 2014
TV
Brooklyn Nine-Nine
1x17 Full Boyle
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Castle
3x21 The Dead Pool
3x22 To Love and Die in L.A.
Game of Thrones
4x04 Oathkeeper
1x17 Full Boyle
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Castle
3x21 The Dead Pool
3x22 To Love and Die in L.A.
Game of Thrones
4x04 Oathkeeper
Tuesday, 13 May 2014
Sunday, 11 May 2014
TV
Pointless Celebrities
6x09 Eurovision Special
Or, according to the BBC's blurb, "a special celebrity crime edition" (no really, go check it out). But it was actually a Eurovision-themed one, including Pointless' very own entry, Nul Points.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
6x09 Eurovision Special
Or, according to the BBC's blurb, "a special celebrity crime edition" (no really, go check it out). But it was actually a Eurovision-themed one, including Pointless' very own entry, Nul Points.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
this week on 100 Films
Three new reviews were published to 100 Films in a Year this week, all under one banner...
Tom Conway as the Falcon, Part III
A summary, linking to the following reviews:
The Falcon in San Francisco (1945)
The Falcon's Alibi (1946)
The Falcon's Adventure (1946)
Also, new to the new blog...
The New World (2005)
More next Sunday.
Tom Conway as the Falcon, Part III
A summary, linking to the following reviews:
The Falcon in San Francisco (1945)
I’m not sure whether to give in San Francisco points for its intricate storyline or admonish it for being so darn confusing. At least it makes for a different kind of mystery from the usual whodunnit styling of the seriesRead more here.
The Falcon's Alibi (1946)
It’s darker than usual fare for the series, bordering on the noir-ish. There’s still the usual Falcon charm and comedic antics of Goldie to lighten the mood, but they feel bolted on to the core of a slightly grimmer taleRead more here.
The Falcon's Adventure (1946)
a terribly generic title for a film that isn’t the series’ very best, but is a solid upper-end instalment. They’re mostly quite formulaic films, but Adventure gets the mix right with some good sequences and gags.Read more here.
Also, new to the new blog...
The New World (2005)
Slowly paced and beautifully photographed, this is about as far from Disney’s telling of the story as you could get. This is not a bad thing, as the pace and photography combine to make for a serene unravelling of story and mood.Read more here.
More next Sunday.
Saturday, 10 May 2014
TV
Eurovision Song Contest: Copenhagen 2014
For various reasons, turned this on just in time for the final two acts, so only watched those, the interval performances, and the voting. Yep, the voting. On the bright side, means I can fastforward it when I go back for the rest of the performances.
Also, that I didn't hear the winner until it was performed at the end. I quite liked it though -- very '90s Bond theme.
[Watch it (again) soon on iPlayer.]
For various reasons, turned this on just in time for the final two acts, so only watched those, the interval performances, and the voting. Yep, the voting. On the bright side, means I can fastforward it when I go back for the rest of the performances.
Also, that I didn't hear the winner until it was performed at the end. I quite liked it though -- very '90s Bond theme.
[Watch it (again) soon on iPlayer.]
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
Nothing to mention this week. There will definitely be a couple next week, though, along with a running time update (feels like no time at all since the last one!), so that's nice.
Number of titles in collection: 1,668 [no change]
Of which DVDs: 1,199 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 469 [no change]
Number of discs in collection: 4,161 [no change]
Number of films in collection: 1,794 [no change]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 6,126 [no change]
Number of short films in collection: 409 [no change]
See you next week, faithful reader.
Nothing to mention this week. There will definitely be a couple next week, though, along with a running time update (feels like no time at all since the last one!), so that's nice.
Number of titles in collection: 1,668 [no change]
Of which DVDs: 1,199 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 469 [no change]
Number of discs in collection: 4,161 [no change]
Number of films in collection: 1,794 [no change]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 6,126 [no change]
Number of short films in collection: 409 [no change]
See you next week, faithful reader.
Friday, 9 May 2014
TV
The Graham Norton Show
15x06 (9/5/14 edition)
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Have I Got News For You
47x06 (9/5/14 edition)
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
The Trip to Italy
Part 6 Il Riccio, Capri [finale]
Yes, I skipped from episode one to six. It wasn't really deliberate. It is quite good though, so I should go back and fill in the rest.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
15x06 (9/5/14 edition)
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Have I Got News For You
47x06 (9/5/14 edition)
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
The Trip to Italy
Part 6 Il Riccio, Capri [finale]
Yes, I skipped from episode one to six. It wasn't really deliberate. It is quite good though, so I should go back and fill in the rest.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Thursday, 8 May 2014
TV
24
8x17 8:00AM - 9:00AM
Arrow
2x19 The Man Under the Hood
Which in passing introduces some of the supporting cast for forthcoming spin-off show The Flash. Unfortunately, they seem intensely irritating. Otherwise, pretty good stuff.
Game of Thrones
4x03 Breaker of Chains
How I Met Your Mother
9x14 Slapsgiving 3: Slappointment in Slapmarra
This was the episode that got accused of racism. Either it was severely edited for the UK, or people got their knickers in a twist over literally nothing.
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
8x17 8:00AM - 9:00AM
Arrow
2x19 The Man Under the Hood
Which in passing introduces some of the supporting cast for forthcoming spin-off show The Flash. Unfortunately, they seem intensely irritating. Otherwise, pretty good stuff.
Game of Thrones
4x03 Breaker of Chains
How I Met Your Mother
9x14 Slapsgiving 3: Slappointment in Slapmarra
This was the episode that got accused of racism. Either it was severely edited for the UK, or people got their knickers in a twist over literally nothing.
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Audio Drama
Doctor Who [Big Finish]
19x04 Minuet in Hell Part Four
Thank crikey that's over! Something good next, I hope.
19x04 Minuet in Hell Part Four
Thank crikey that's over! Something good next, I hope.
Wednesday, 7 May 2014
TV
24
8x16 7:00AM - 8:00AM
It won't be clear until the next episode, but this seems to make the end of Story Arc #2. That said, Arc #1 was actually part of Arc #2, we just didn't see that until a little later -- so really, the whole season has been Arc #1 until now. That pleases me. Plenty of other things about this season don't, but that does.
Castle
3x20 Slice of Death
8x16 7:00AM - 8:00AM
It won't be clear until the next episode, but this seems to make the end of Story Arc #2. That said, Arc #1 was actually part of Arc #2, we just didn't see that until a little later -- so really, the whole season has been Arc #1 until now. That pleases me. Plenty of other things about this season don't, but that does.
Castle
3x20 Slice of Death
Tuesday, 6 May 2014
TV
Vera
4x01 On Harbour Street
Adapted from the novel Harbour Street. Your guess as to why they tweaked the title is as good as mine.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
4x01 On Harbour Street
Adapted from the novel Harbour Street. Your guess as to why they tweaked the title is as good as mine.
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Comics
Batman Eternal #3-4 by Scott Snyder, James Tynion IV, John Layman, Jason Fabok & Dustin Nguyen with Ray Fawkes & Tim Seeley
Five writers and two artists (not to mention all the colourists, letterers, etc) tell another 3.3% of this year-(or-more)-long Bat-story.
Five writers and two artists (not to mention all the colourists, letterers, etc) tell another 3.3% of this year-(or-more)-long Bat-story.
Monday, 5 May 2014
TV
24
8x15 6:00AM - 7:00AM
Brooklyn Nine-Nine
1x16 The Party
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
How I Met Your Mother
9x13 Bass Player Wanted
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
8x15 6:00AM - 7:00AM
Brooklyn Nine-Nine
1x16 The Party
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
How I Met Your Mother
9x13 Bass Player Wanted
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Sunday, 4 May 2014
TV
24
8x14 5:00AM - 6:00AM
Castle
3x19 Law and Murder
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Friends
10x17 The Last One Part 1 [5th or so watch]
10x18 The Last One Part 2 [series finale; 5th or so watch]
In what feels like the blink of an eye (actually 8½ months), ten years have passed, and Friends is over once again. Until the next time...
8x14 5:00AM - 6:00AM
Castle
3x19 Law and Murder
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Friends
10x17 The Last One Part 1 [5th or so watch]
10x18 The Last One Part 2 [series finale; 5th or so watch]
In what feels like the blink of an eye (actually 8½ months), ten years have passed, and Friends is over once again. Until the next time...
this fortnight on 100 Films
Due to a basic mistake, I forgot to post a 100 Films in a Year update last week... so here's a double one!
Firstly, as it was May a couple of days ago, it's time to look back at April. This month's top five is my favourite movies from 1986. You can read why by clicking through.
Next, two new reviews were published in the past fortnight... well, in the past week, actually. Anyway, they were:
Bicycle Thieves (1948)
Solomon Kane (2009)
And finally, new to the new blog were:
L.A. Confidential (1997)
Mulan (1998)
More next Sunday.
Firstly, as it was May a couple of days ago, it's time to look back at April. This month's top five is my favourite movies from 1986. You can read why by clicking through.
Next, two new reviews were published in the past fortnight... well, in the past week, actually. Anyway, they were:
Bicycle Thieves (1948)
For my 800th review, it's the film Sight & Sound swiftly decided was the greatest of all time, and almost as swiftly changed their mind about.Read more here.
Solomon Kane (2009)
The style is a fantasy-horror mash-up, recalling everything from the 1982 Conan to Witchfinder General, and plenty more besides. That’s not to say its a rip-off of those movies, or even some kind of cobbled-together reference-fest, but rather that its roots and inspirations are discernible. There’s some creepy creatures and sequences, but also a more-than-requisite amount of swordfightingRead more here.
And finally, new to the new blog were:
L.A. Confidential (1997)
how does a 480-page, densely written, intricately plotted crime novel, spanning seven years and “no fewer than four and perhaps as many as a dozen major crimes”, translate into a two-and-a-quarter-hour film? With more than a few surprises, as it turns out, because the apparently minor changes near the film’s start turn out to be the proverbial pebble in a pond: their ripples spread so far that, by the second half, not even a reader who can remember the many details of the novel’s complex plot will know for sure what’s coming.Read more here.
Mulan (1998)
The thing that stands out is how very Americanised it is. That’s nothing new for Disney, but it feels a little odd these days. When we’re so used to increased attempts at appropriate cultural reverence from Hollywood movies, it’s almost uncomfortable to hear such American accents from clearly Chinese characters.Read more here.
More next Sunday.
Saturday, 3 May 2014
TV
24
8x13 4:00AM - 5:00AM
...aaaaand there it is.
Elementary
2x20 No Lack of Void
Friends
10x16 The One with Rachel's Going Away Party [5th or so watch]
Game of Thrones
4x02 The Lion and the Rose
The whole point of starting this now was that I wouldn't be behind and wouldn't get spoiled -- watching one per week on a four week delay isn't going to solve that, is it? Time to start catching up, then. This is The Big One so far this season, which I won't discuss for fear of spoiling someone else. Still, I understand there'll be plenty more surprises to come...
8x13 4:00AM - 5:00AM
...aaaaand there it is.
Elementary
2x20 No Lack of Void
Friends
10x16 The One with Rachel's Going Away Party [5th or so watch]
Game of Thrones
4x02 The Lion and the Rose
The whole point of starting this now was that I wouldn't be behind and wouldn't get spoiled -- watching one per week on a four week delay isn't going to solve that, is it? Time to start catching up, then. This is The Big One so far this season, which I won't discuss for fear of spoiling someone else. Still, I understand there'll be plenty more surprises to come...
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
A couple of Doctor Who DVD upgrades last week and this mean... my Who collection is finally completely complete! Well, except for the last couple of Matt Smith episodes that have yet to see a box set / Special Edition re-release, and the one classic story they're taking forever to get round to. But that's not my fault, is it.
Of course, because they're upgrades, the only footprint last week was an extra disc, and this week not even that. (I also got a few new Blu-rays, hence the increases.)
Number of titles in collection: 1,668 [up 3]
Of which DVDs: 1,199 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 469 [up 3]
Number of discs in collection: 4,161 [up 3]
Number of films in collection: 1,794 [up 3]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 6,126 [no change]
Number of short films in collection: 409 [no change]
See you next week, faithful reader.
A couple of Doctor Who DVD upgrades last week and this mean... my Who collection is finally completely complete! Well, except for the last couple of Matt Smith episodes that have yet to see a box set / Special Edition re-release, and the one classic story they're taking forever to get round to. But that's not my fault, is it.
Of course, because they're upgrades, the only footprint last week was an extra disc, and this week not even that. (I also got a few new Blu-rays, hence the increases.)
Number of titles in collection: 1,668 [up 3]
Of which DVDs: 1,199 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 469 [up 3]
Number of discs in collection: 4,161 [up 3]
Number of films in collection: 1,794 [up 3]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 6,126 [no change]
Number of short films in collection: 409 [no change]
See you next week, faithful reader.
Friday, 2 May 2014
TV
24
8x12 3:00AM - 4:00AM
Halfway and... boom, there goes CTU! Mark it off your "Things That Always Happen in a Season of 24" bingo card, people. How long before we find out there's a mole?
Friends
10x15 The One Where Estelle Dies [5th or so watch]
Have I Got News For You
47x04 (25/4/2014 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
8x12 3:00AM - 4:00AM
Halfway and... boom, there goes CTU! Mark it off your "Things That Always Happen in a Season of 24" bingo card, people. How long before we find out there's a mole?
Friends
10x15 The One Where Estelle Dies [5th or so watch]
Have I Got News For You
47x04 (25/4/2014 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Thursday, 1 May 2014
TV
24
8x11 2:00AM - 3:00AM
Arrow
2x18 Deathstroke
There's still five episodes left this season! Either they've got a lot of plans, or it's going to get really strung out...
Friends
10x14 The One with Princess Consuela [5th or so watch]
8x11 2:00AM - 3:00AM
Arrow
2x18 Deathstroke
There's still five episodes left this season! Either they've got a lot of plans, or it's going to get really strung out...
Friends
10x14 The One with Princess Consuela [5th or so watch]
Wednesday, 30 April 2014
TV
24
8x10 1:00AM - 2:00AM
Brooklyn Nine-Nine
1x15 Operation: Broken Feather
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Friends
10x13 The One Where Joey Speaks French [5th or so watch]
8x10 1:00AM - 2:00AM
Brooklyn Nine-Nine
1x15 Operation: Broken Feather
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Friends
10x13 The One Where Joey Speaks French [5th or so watch]
Films
Solomon Kane (2009)
[#34 in 100 Films in a Year 2014]
The UK TV premiere of this is on Film4 at 9pm on Thursday. Consequently, look for a review here from about 1pm.
[#34 in 100 Films in a Year 2014]
The UK TV premiere of this is on Film4 at 9pm on Thursday. Consequently, look for a review here from about 1pm.
Tuesday, 29 April 2014
TV
24
8x09 12:00AM - 1:00AM
Castle
3x18 One Life to Lose
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Friends
10x12 The One with Phoebe's Wedding [5th or so watch]
8x09 12:00AM - 1:00AM
Castle
3x18 One Life to Lose
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Friends
10x12 The One with Phoebe's Wedding [5th or so watch]
Monday, 28 April 2014
TV
24
8x08 11:00PM - 12:00AM
I thought they'd reached the end of another plot already... but no, not quite yet. Though they are burning through sub-villains with great speed -- I mean, Jack and co have already taken down not one but two supposedly-major Russian crime operations!
Friends
10x11 The One Where the Stripper Cries [5th or so watch]
I've said before that the occasionally-reviled late-era Friends actually contains some of its all-time-classic episodes, and this is a case in point.
The Guess List
1x03 Episode 3
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
8x08 11:00PM - 12:00AM
I thought they'd reached the end of another plot already... but no, not quite yet. Though they are burning through sub-villains with great speed -- I mean, Jack and co have already taken down not one but two supposedly-major Russian crime operations!
Friends
10x11 The One Where the Stripper Cries [5th or so watch]
I've said before that the occasionally-reviled late-era Friends actually contains some of its all-time-classic episodes, and this is a case in point.
The Guess List
1x03 Episode 3
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Sunday, 27 April 2014
TV
24
8x06 9:00PM - 10:00PM
8x07 10:00PM - 11:00PM
All About TWO
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Friends
10x09 The One with the Birth Mother [5th or so watch]
10x10 The One Where Chandler Gets Caught [5th or so watch]
How I Met Your Mother
9x12 The Rehearsal Dinner
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
8x06 9:00PM - 10:00PM
8x07 10:00PM - 11:00PM
All About TWO
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Friends
10x09 The One with the Birth Mother [5th or so watch]
10x10 The One Where Chandler Gets Caught [5th or so watch]
How I Met Your Mother
9x12 The Rehearsal Dinner
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Saturday, 26 April 2014
TV
24
8x05 8:00PM - 9:00PM
Friends
10x08 The One with the Late Thanksgiving [5th or so watch]
Game of Thrones
4x01 Two Swords
Wait, what's this -- more GoT already? Yes, well, with one major event already having happened -- and been widely discussed all over the internet & everywhere else -- and with many more promised by Those In The Know for later in the season, I decided that, for my own sake, I should forgo my normal year-long wait for the Blu-ray release and just enjoy the series at the same time as everyone else. I'll only have the whole damned thing spoiled if I don't.
The Mentalist
6x17 Silver Wings of Time
Well that was disappointingly obvious.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
8x05 8:00PM - 9:00PM
Friends
10x08 The One with the Late Thanksgiving [5th or so watch]
Game of Thrones
4x01 Two Swords
Wait, what's this -- more GoT already? Yes, well, with one major event already having happened -- and been widely discussed all over the internet & everywhere else -- and with many more promised by Those In The Know for later in the season, I decided that, for my own sake, I should forgo my normal year-long wait for the Blu-ray release and just enjoy the series at the same time as everyone else. I'll only have the whole damned thing spoiled if I don't.
The Mentalist
6x17 Silver Wings of Time
Well that was disappointingly obvious.
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Comics
Nemo: Heart of Ice by Alan Moore & Kevin O'Neill
A spin-off from / aside to The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, starring Captain Nemo's daughter as introduced to us in Century Vol.1. Moore's taken a break from ongoing League storytelling for a trilogy of these more-or-less-standalone tales: the second was released last month, the third is due... sometime. Considering Moore and O'Neill have managed one a year of late, hopefully in March 2015, and we can have League Vol.IV in 2016.
Heart of Ice is a slighter, more straightforward story than we're used to from League books (especially the last two), which makes it kind of refreshing: it's a clean adventure yarn, not an intricate and disturbing puzzle (though it's disturbing in places, naturally). Nonetheless, it's still packed with obscure allusions, making this guide not essential but worthwhile.
A spin-off from / aside to The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, starring Captain Nemo's daughter as introduced to us in Century Vol.1. Moore's taken a break from ongoing League storytelling for a trilogy of these more-or-less-standalone tales: the second was released last month, the third is due... sometime. Considering Moore and O'Neill have managed one a year of late, hopefully in March 2015, and we can have League Vol.IV in 2016.
Heart of Ice is a slighter, more straightforward story than we're used to from League books (especially the last two), which makes it kind of refreshing: it's a clean adventure yarn, not an intricate and disturbing puzzle (though it's disturbing in places, naturally). Nonetheless, it's still packed with obscure allusions, making this guide not essential but worthwhile.
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
Number of titles in collection: 1,665 [up 1]
Of which DVDs: 1,199 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 466 [up 1]
Number of discs in collection: 4,158 [up 2]
Number of films in collection: 1,791 [up 1]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 6,126 [no change]
Number of short films in collection: 409 [no change]
See you next week, faithful reader.
Number of titles in collection: 1,665 [up 1]
Of which DVDs: 1,199 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 466 [up 1]
Number of discs in collection: 4,158 [up 2]
Number of films in collection: 1,791 [up 1]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 6,126 [no change]
Number of short films in collection: 409 [no change]
See you next week, faithful reader.
Friday, 25 April 2014
TV
24
8x04 7:00PM - 8:00PM [extended version]
It's time to play Count The 24 Story Arcs, because, 3½ episodes in, Story Arc 1 is already at an end, with Story Arc 2 -- which at least spins out of it -- already underway. The rules of the game are: seasons one, two and three did it best, when there were two or three major arcs across an entire season; season four and on mucked it up by having a frankly ludicrous number of arcs/threats every year. Getting through the first so quickly isn't promising, but we'll see -- maybe this new one will run and run...
Also, the "extended" element of this episode is one c.2-minute scene forcibly inserted between the climax and credits. Rather ruins the effect, that. The scene isn't bad in itself, and if they'd inserted it five minutes earlier all would've been fine, but put where it is... I shan't bother with the set's six other elongated episodes (I can just jump to three minutes before the end and watch the extensions in isolation!)
Friends
10x07 The One with the Home Study [5th or so watch]
aka The One Where Phoebe and Mike Give Their Wedding Money to Charity But Then Don't But Then Do But Then Don't.
Have I Got News For You
47x03 (18/4/2014 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
8x04 7:00PM - 8:00PM [extended version]
It's time to play Count The 24 Story Arcs, because, 3½ episodes in, Story Arc 1 is already at an end, with Story Arc 2 -- which at least spins out of it -- already underway. The rules of the game are: seasons one, two and three did it best, when there were two or three major arcs across an entire season; season four and on mucked it up by having a frankly ludicrous number of arcs/threats every year. Getting through the first so quickly isn't promising, but we'll see -- maybe this new one will run and run...
Also, the "extended" element of this episode is one c.2-minute scene forcibly inserted between the climax and credits. Rather ruins the effect, that. The scene isn't bad in itself, and if they'd inserted it five minutes earlier all would've been fine, but put where it is... I shan't bother with the set's six other elongated episodes (I can just jump to three minutes before the end and watch the extensions in isolation!)
Friends
10x07 The One with the Home Study [5th or so watch]
aka The One Where Phoebe and Mike Give Their Wedding Money to Charity But Then Don't But Then Do But Then Don't.
Have I Got News For You
47x03 (18/4/2014 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Thursday, 24 April 2014
TV
24
8x02 5:00PM - 6:00PM
8x03 6:00PM - 7:00PM
Friends
10x06 The One with Ross's Grant [5th or so watch]
8x02 5:00PM - 6:00PM
8x03 6:00PM - 7:00PM
Friends
10x06 The One with Ross's Grant [5th or so watch]
Wednesday, 23 April 2014
TV
24
8x01 4:00PM - 5:00PM
It's been three years and 11 months since the finale of this final season aired, so it's really about time I got round to it -- especially with the revival miniseries imminent (its US premiere is under two weeks away now). I've read recently that it's not a particularly great season (very different to what I heard at the time, it would seem), but this is an OK start... and it's been so long since I last watched any 24 (over four years since season seven, and it was a couple of years before that that I watched season six) that I'm not sure I'll be able to make many comparisons anyway.
Arrow
2x17 Birds of Prey
Which (unlike with last episode's titular team) doesn't really feature the Birds of Prey. I bet some fans were pissed.
Friends
10x05 The One Where Rachel's Sister Babysits [5th or so watch]
8x01 4:00PM - 5:00PM
It's been three years and 11 months since the finale of this final season aired, so it's really about time I got round to it -- especially with the revival miniseries imminent (its US premiere is under two weeks away now). I've read recently that it's not a particularly great season (very different to what I heard at the time, it would seem), but this is an OK start... and it's been so long since I last watched any 24 (over four years since season seven, and it was a couple of years before that that I watched season six) that I'm not sure I'll be able to make many comparisons anyway.
Arrow
2x17 Birds of Prey
Which (unlike with last episode's titular team) doesn't really feature the Birds of Prey. I bet some fans were pissed.
Friends
10x05 The One Where Rachel's Sister Babysits [5th or so watch]
Tuesday, 22 April 2014
TV
Elementary
2x19 The Many Mouths of Aaron Colville
Friends
10x03 The One with Ross's Tan [5th or so watch]
10x04 The One with the Cake [5th or so watch]
The Guess List
1x02 Episode 2
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
2x19 The Many Mouths of Aaron Colville
Friends
10x03 The One with Ross's Tan [5th or so watch]
10x04 The One with the Cake [5th or so watch]
The Guess List
1x02 Episode 2
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Comics
Batman Eternal #1 by Scott Snyder, James Tynion IV & Jason Fabok
To celebrate Batman's 75th anniversary, DC are releasing this weekly epic by a host of top creators (there's also a "consulting writer" credit for Ray Fawkes, John Layman and Tim Seeley) -- so as it's weekly, I thought I really ought to get reading. Solid start; much promise.
Also:
Batman #28 by Scott Snyder, James Tynion IV & Dustin Nguyen
I'm way behind on Batman (OK, let's be honest: a) I'm waaaay behind, and b) I'm waaaay behind on almost everything else too), but #28 steps aside from the main storyline for a preview/flashforward/something to the events of Batman Eternal. Apparently it's set between issues 39 and 40 of the weekly, meaning they won't catch up to it until next year (depending on Christmastime release dates, those two issues might both be out in January 2015).
And it's every inch the issue that knows it's a teaser, full of lines so self consciously cryptic, so avoiding mentioning names or specifics, that you don't think anyone would ever say them in real life -- like, "you know how bad it is out there... you know how much we need what you have in here." Ooh, why's it bad? What does she have? Why would you only allude to it like that if you both know what it is?
Still, it is intriguing, and presents much excitement of its own, so it's all good.
She-Hulk #2 by Charles Soule & Javier Pulido
Less grim than the above. Tonnes of fun, in fact. Hurrah.
To celebrate Batman's 75th anniversary, DC are releasing this weekly epic by a host of top creators (there's also a "consulting writer" credit for Ray Fawkes, John Layman and Tim Seeley) -- so as it's weekly, I thought I really ought to get reading. Solid start; much promise.
Also:
Batman #28 by Scott Snyder, James Tynion IV & Dustin Nguyen
I'm way behind on Batman (OK, let's be honest: a) I'm waaaay behind, and b) I'm waaaay behind on almost everything else too), but #28 steps aside from the main storyline for a preview/flashforward/something to the events of Batman Eternal. Apparently it's set between issues 39 and 40 of the weekly, meaning they won't catch up to it until next year (depending on Christmastime release dates, those two issues might both be out in January 2015).
And it's every inch the issue that knows it's a teaser, full of lines so self consciously cryptic, so avoiding mentioning names or specifics, that you don't think anyone would ever say them in real life -- like, "you know how bad it is out there... you know how much we need what you have in here." Ooh, why's it bad? What does she have? Why would you only allude to it like that if you both know what it is?
Still, it is intriguing, and presents much excitement of its own, so it's all good.
She-Hulk #2 by Charles Soule & Javier Pulido
Less grim than the above. Tonnes of fun, in fact. Hurrah.
Monday, 21 April 2014
TV
Friends
10x01 The One After Joey and Rachel Kiss [5th or so watch]
10x02 The One Where Ross is Fine [5th or so watch]
The final season begins!
Mad Men
7x01 Time Zones
The final season begins!
Person of Interest
2x16 Relevance
...yeah, this is just an episode. But at least it's a Special one.
10x01 The One After Joey and Rachel Kiss [5th or so watch]
10x02 The One Where Ross is Fine [5th or so watch]
The final season begins!
Mad Men
7x01 Time Zones
The final season begins!
Person of Interest
2x16 Relevance
...yeah, this is just an episode. But at least it's a Special one.
Sunday, 20 April 2014
TV
Friends
9x22 The One with the Donor [5th or so watch]
9x23 The One in Barbados Part 1 [5th or so watch]
9x24 The One in Barbados Part 2 [season finale; 5th or so watch]
Law & Order: UK
8x03 I Predict a Riot
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
9x22 The One with the Donor [5th or so watch]
9x23 The One in Barbados Part 1 [5th or so watch]
9x24 The One in Barbados Part 2 [season finale; 5th or so watch]
Law & Order: UK
8x03 I Predict a Riot
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Saturday, 19 April 2014
TV
Castle
3x17 Countdown
In which the show tries to pretend Castle and Becket might die... twice. On the bright side, a lovely new cool-blue title card (that I guess won't stick around).
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Friends
9x21 The One with the Fertility Test [5th or so watch]
Have I Got News For You
47x02 (11/4/2014 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
How I Met Your Mother
9x11 Bedtime Stories
A lot of people have been very critical of HIMYM's final season, but this proves it can still manage "best episode ever?"-level awesome.
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
3x17 Countdown
In which the show tries to pretend Castle and Becket might die... twice. On the bright side, a lovely new cool-blue title card (that I guess won't stick around).
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Friends
9x21 The One with the Fertility Test [5th or so watch]
Have I Got News For You
47x02 (11/4/2014 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
How I Met Your Mother
9x11 Bedtime Stories
A lot of people have been very critical of HIMYM's final season, but this proves it can still manage "best episode ever?"-level awesome.
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
Once again, no additions to report this week (though I've just ordered some stuff, so next might be busy). Indeed, a slow month all round: only two new titles added, making for a teeny tiny running time update.
Number of titles in collection: 1,664 [no change]
Of which DVDs: 1,199 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 465 [no change]
Number of discs in collection: 4,156 [no change]
Number of films in collection: 1,790 [no change]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 6,126 [no change]
Number of short films in collection: 409 [no change]
As I intimated at the start, it's time for the running time update...
Total running time of collection (approx.):
297 days, 16 hours, and 16 minutes.
(Up 6 hours and 13 minutes from last month.)
See you next week, faithful reader.
Once again, no additions to report this week (though I've just ordered some stuff, so next might be busy). Indeed, a slow month all round: only two new titles added, making for a teeny tiny running time update.
Number of titles in collection: 1,664 [no change]
Of which DVDs: 1,199 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 465 [no change]
Number of discs in collection: 4,156 [no change]
Number of films in collection: 1,790 [no change]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 6,126 [no change]
Number of short films in collection: 409 [no change]
As I intimated at the start, it's time for the running time update...
Total running time of collection (approx.):
297 days, 16 hours, and 16 minutes.
(Up 6 hours and 13 minutes from last month.)
See you next week, faithful reader.
Friday, 18 April 2014
TV
Brooklyn Nine-Nine
1x14 The Ebony Falcon
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Friends
9x20 The One with the Soap Opera Party [5th or so watch]
The Mentalist
6x16 Violets
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
1x14 The Ebony Falcon
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Friends
9x20 The One with the Soap Opera Party [5th or so watch]
The Mentalist
6x16 Violets
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Wednesday, 16 April 2014
TV
Arrow
2x16 Suicide Squad
Shetland
2x06 Blue Lightning Part 2 [season finale]
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
2x16 Suicide Squad
Shetland
2x06 Blue Lightning Part 2 [season finale]
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Tuesday, 15 April 2014
TV
The Guess List
1x01 Episode 1
It's basically just Blankety Blank with a twist, but it works, so why not?
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Shetland
2x05 Blue Lightning Part 1
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
1x01 Episode 1
It's basically just Blankety Blank with a twist, but it works, so why not?
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Shetland
2x05 Blue Lightning Part 1
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Monday, 14 April 2014
TV
The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin
1x01 Meet Rin Tin Tin
1x03 Rin Tin Tin in the Flaming Forest
On DVD, 'remastered' into colour with new music and (some) dialogue. It seems less than half of the episodes have been 'restored' in this way, and these are the first two. (Not that I'm likely to end up watching many/any more, but I thought I'd point this out anyway.)
1x01 Meet Rin Tin Tin
1x03 Rin Tin Tin in the Flaming Forest
On DVD, 'remastered' into colour with new music and (some) dialogue. It seems less than half of the episodes have been 'restored' in this way, and these are the first two. (Not that I'm likely to end up watching many/any more, but I thought I'd point this out anyway.)
Sunday, 13 April 2014
TV
Castle
3x16 Setup
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Duck Quacks Don't Echo
1x06 Episode 6
Friends
9x19 The One with Rachel's Dream [5th or so watch]
Even at this stage, I remember some episodes better than others. This is one I recall well.
Have I Got News For You
47x01 (4/4/2014 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
3x16 Setup
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Duck Quacks Don't Echo
1x06 Episode 6
Friends
9x19 The One with Rachel's Dream [5th or so watch]
Even at this stage, I remember some episodes better than others. This is one I recall well.
Have I Got News For You
47x01 (4/4/2014 edition; extended repeat)
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Films
Alter Egos (2012)
[#30 in 100 Films in a Year 2014]
The Falcon's Adventure (1946)
[#31 in 100 Films in a Year 2014]
[#30 in 100 Films in a Year 2014]
The Falcon's Adventure (1946)
[#31 in 100 Films in a Year 2014]
this week on 100 Films
Three new reviews were published to 100 Films in a Year this week, and they were...
The Box (2009)
Chicken Little (2005)
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
And new to the new blog...
Kinky Boots (2005)
More next Sunday.
The Box (2009)
I believe the short story is all of six pages long — not exactly feature-length. Kelly has bulked it up by expanding the characters, who are now based on his parents to an almost freakish degree, and a massive back-end extension (the short story accounts for 30 to 40 minutes of the two-hour film) that heads deep into the same “what the…?” territory that he mined in his previous directorial efforts.Read more here.
Chicken Little (2005)
The director of Disney's woeful The Emperor's New Groove re-tells the well-known centuries-old folk take about a chicken who became a middle school baseball champ before foiling an alien invasion.Read more here.
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
If the first instalment was indulgent in setting up the adventure we were about to embark on, this middle part is restless to the point of distraction. It buffets us from action sequence to action sequence with barely a chance to catch our breath. Rather than making time fly, however, this has the unfortunate side effect of making everything feel much longer than it actually is.Read more here.
And new to the new blog...
Kinky Boots (2005)
If nothing else it’s worth seeing for Chiwetel Ejiofor (who you may recognise from films such as Serenity, Inside Man and Children of Men [and this year Oscar nominated for 12 Years a Slave]) as a drag queen.Read more here.
More next Sunday.
Saturday, 12 April 2014
TV
Brooklyn Nine-Nine
1x13 The Bet
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
How I Met Your Mother
9x10 Mom and Dad
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Person of Interest
2x15 Booked Solid
1x13 The Bet
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
How I Met Your Mother
9x10 Mom and Dad
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Person of Interest
2x15 Booked Solid
DVD Extras
Special Features on The Sweeney
I didn't watch everything the disc had to offer, but interesting short featurettes on the Top Gear-assisted climactic car chase (shot in just two days!) and the Trafalgar Square shoot-out (shot in just six hours!)
I didn't watch everything the disc had to offer, but interesting short featurettes on the Top Gear-assisted climactic car chase (shot in just two days!) and the Trafalgar Square shoot-out (shot in just six hours!)
Comics
Anne Bonnie #1 by Tim Yates
I quite enjoyed that. A bit like anime-like -- or, rather, like those Western kids' TV series that are anime-inspired (e.g. Avatar: The Last Airbender), but promising nonetheless. We'll see how it goes. #2 is out in June.
I quite enjoyed that. A bit like anime-like -- or, rather, like those Western kids' TV series that are anime-inspired (e.g. Avatar: The Last Airbender), but promising nonetheless. We'll see how it goes. #2 is out in June.
Collection Count
Collection Count tracks my DVD/Blu-ray collection via a number of statistics every week.
Absolutely no changes this week. Not expecting any next week either, but at least that's the running time update.
Number of titles in collection: 1,664 [no change]
Of which DVDs: 1,199 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 465 [no change]
Number of discs in collection: 4,156 [no change]
Number of films in collection: 1,790 [no change]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 6,126 [no change]
Number of short films in collection: 409 [no change]
See you next week, faithful reader.
Absolutely no changes this week. Not expecting any next week either, but at least that's the running time update.
Number of titles in collection: 1,664 [no change]
Of which DVDs: 1,199 [no change]
Of which Blu-rays: 465 [no change]
Number of discs in collection: 4,156 [no change]
Number of films in collection: 1,790 [no change]
Number of TV episodes in collection: 6,126 [no change]
Number of short films in collection: 409 [no change]
See you next week, faithful reader.
Friday, 11 April 2014
TV
Elementary
2x18 The Hound of the Cancer Cells
Bit of a waste of that title-reference.
Friends
9x18 The One with the Lottery [5th or so watch]
The Graham Norton Show
15x01 (4/4/14 edition)
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
2x18 The Hound of the Cancer Cells
Bit of a waste of that title-reference.
Friends
9x18 The One with the Lottery [5th or so watch]
The Graham Norton Show
15x01 (4/4/14 edition)
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Thursday, 10 April 2014
TV
Dave Gorman: Modern Life is Goodish
1x05 I Like Eggs
I didn't think I liked Dave Gorman, but I caught this episode by accident and really liked it. So that's nice. Obviously I don't know if other episodes are up to the same standard, but his deconstruction of ridiculous advertising practices in this one was bang-on and very amusing.
[Watch it (again) on Dave On Demand.]
Friends
9x16 The One with the Boob Job [5th or so watch]
9x17 The One with the Memorial Service [5th or so watch]
The Mentalist
6x15 White as the Driven Snow
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
1x05 I Like Eggs
I didn't think I liked Dave Gorman, but I caught this episode by accident and really liked it. So that's nice. Obviously I don't know if other episodes are up to the same standard, but his deconstruction of ridiculous advertising practices in this one was bang-on and very amusing.
[Watch it (again) on Dave On Demand.]
Friends
9x16 The One with the Boob Job [5th or so watch]
9x17 The One with the Memorial Service [5th or so watch]
The Mentalist
6x15 White as the Driven Snow
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Audio Drama
Doctor Who [Big Finish]
19x03 Minuet in Hell Part Three
I'm beginning to wonder if this is meant to be a comedy... but it's not funny enough for that, and does seem to be taking itself seriously most of the time. Weirdly, there are some potentially good ideas in there, but none of them are explored; it's just a laughable run-around.
19x03 Minuet in Hell Part Three
I'm beginning to wonder if this is meant to be a comedy... but it's not funny enough for that, and does seem to be taking itself seriously most of the time. Weirdly, there are some potentially good ideas in there, but none of them are explored; it's just a laughable run-around.
Comics
Wolverine #3-4 by Chris Claremont & Frank Miller
I wonder how much this actually inspired the movie, and how much it's just coincidence that some bits are kind of alike.
I wonder how much this actually inspired the movie, and how much it's just coincidence that some bits are kind of alike.
Wednesday, 9 April 2014
TV
Arrow
2x15 The Promise
Friends
9x15 The One with the Mugging [5th or so watch]
There seem to be an exceptionally high number of Famous Guest Stars in this season. I guess they knew the end was in sight.
How I Met Your Mother
9x09 Platonish
It's episodes like this that prove why people shouldn't've been so surprised when it all ended how it did. (Yeah, E4 are months away from getting there, but I accidentally found out what happens anyway.)
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
The Trip to Italy
Part 1 Il Cenobio dei Dogi, Camogli
I didn't bother with the first series of The Trip (way back in 2010 now) because I wasn't sure I could take three hours of Steve Coogan. Some good reviews tempted me in for this sequel, though, and I found it to be quite enjoyable. Mainly thanks to Rob Brydon, but Coogan wasn't so bad.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
2x15 The Promise
Friends
9x15 The One with the Mugging [5th or so watch]
There seem to be an exceptionally high number of Famous Guest Stars in this season. I guess they knew the end was in sight.
How I Met Your Mother
9x09 Platonish
It's episodes like this that prove why people shouldn't've been so surprised when it all ended how it did. (Yeah, E4 are months away from getting there, but I accidentally found out what happens anyway.)
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
The Trip to Italy
Part 1 Il Cenobio dei Dogi, Camogli
I didn't bother with the first series of The Trip (way back in 2010 now) because I wasn't sure I could take three hours of Steve Coogan. Some good reviews tempted me in for this sequel, though, and I found it to be quite enjoyable. Mainly thanks to Rob Brydon, but Coogan wasn't so bad.
[Watch it (again) in HD on iPlayer.]
Comics
Wolverine #1-2 by Chris Claremont & Frank Miller
No, not the Wolverine #1&2 I read recently; nor the Wolverine #1&2 that have been published since then; but, in fact, the first ever Wolverine #1&2 from 1982, aka Wolverine vol.1 1&2 -- half of the story that (loosely) inspired last summer's Wolverine movie, The Wolverine.
Much like its titular character (that'd be Wolverine), its reputation precedes it. Fortunately, it is very good.
No, not the Wolverine #1&2 I read recently; nor the Wolverine #1&2 that have been published since then; but, in fact, the first ever Wolverine #1&2 from 1982, aka Wolverine vol.1 1&2 -- half of the story that (loosely) inspired last summer's Wolverine movie, The Wolverine.
Much like its titular character (that'd be Wolverine), its reputation precedes it. Fortunately, it is very good.
Tuesday, 8 April 2014
TV
Brooklyn Nine-Nine
1x12 Pontiac Bandit
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Friends
9x14 The One with the Blind Dates [5th or so watch]
Law & Order: UK
8x04 Pride
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
1x12 Pontiac Bandit
[Watch it (again) on 4oD.]
Friends
9x14 The One with the Blind Dates [5th or so watch]
Law & Order: UK
8x04 Pride
[Watch it (again) on ITV Player.]
Monday, 7 April 2014
TV
Friends
9x12 The One with Phoebe's Rats [5th or so watch]
9x13 The One Where Monica Sings [5th or so watch]
Killer Magic
1x00 Pilot
I swear they used clips from other episodes in the opening montage, but this is a pilot with a six-episode series set to follow later in the year. Which makes me happy because it was really rather good.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Silk
3x06 Episode 6 [series finale]
A lot of people seemed to think this was clearly a season finale that someone thought they could get away with leaving as the last-ever episode. Personally, I thought it rounded quite a lot off, just not in a very cheery way -- essentially, all the bad guys won and our heroes lost. Perhaps writer-creator Peter Moffat was making a point about the justice system?
9x12 The One with Phoebe's Rats [5th or so watch]
9x13 The One Where Monica Sings [5th or so watch]
Killer Magic
1x00 Pilot
I swear they used clips from other episodes in the opening montage, but this is a pilot with a six-episode series set to follow later in the year. Which makes me happy because it was really rather good.
[Watch it (again) on iPlayer.]
Silk
3x06 Episode 6 [series finale]
A lot of people seemed to think this was clearly a season finale that someone thought they could get away with leaving as the last-ever episode. Personally, I thought it rounded quite a lot off, just not in a very cheery way -- essentially, all the bad guys won and our heroes lost. Perhaps writer-creator Peter Moffat was making a point about the justice system?
Sunday, 6 April 2014
TV
Castle
3x15 The Final Nail
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Friends
9x10 The One with Christmas in Tulsa [5th or so watch]
9x11 The One Where Rachel Goes Back to Work [5th or so watch]
Friends does a clip show and it has a big-name guest star and a major plot development that affects the rest of the series. Win.
Person of Interest
2x14 One Percent
3x15 The Final Nail
[Watch it (again) on Demand 5.]
Friends
9x10 The One with Christmas in Tulsa [5th or so watch]
9x11 The One Where Rachel Goes Back to Work [5th or so watch]
Friends does a clip show and it has a big-name guest star and a major plot development that affects the rest of the series. Win.
Person of Interest
2x14 One Percent
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