Animation Revelation Forum

Other Entertainment => The Telly => Topic started by: Dr. Insomniac on January 10, 2011, 02:19:53 AM

Title: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on January 10, 2011, 02:19:53 AM
So yeah, thread for whatever show you're watching now.

I just started Series 4 of Skins, and I'm starting to see why people hate it. It's so melodramatic, and characters do things they never would've done the last season. But for all that matters, Cook seems like less of a douche.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Neomysterion X. Prime on January 10, 2011, 03:23:21 PM
For me? I've been bleedin' watchin' me some new episodes of Supernanny.
Jo Frost is back on force, worried mothers!  :cop:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on January 14, 2011, 08:48:45 AM
I decided to re-watch some Scrubs (it's been a real long time- I completely missed season 9) and I'm in shock... I really went out of my way to say on UD that that show is the best of the new millennium and... it's not. The critics were right: Zach Braff is annoying. And the co-stars (save for the older actors, including Judy Reyes naturally) aren't all that much better.

I re-watched: "My Heavy Meddle" (which was very good), "My Fallen Idol" (which was not) and "My Bed, Banter, and Beyond" (which was pretty bad).
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on February 15, 2011, 10:14:10 AM
thought I'd take a try at Sherlock, since it's got Moffat producing it :)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on February 16, 2011, 06:35:22 PM
Why is Cupcake Wars so frickin' addictive?  :shakeshakeshake:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on February 22, 2011, 02:46:10 PM
On Sunday, I finally finished Burn Notice Season 3. It's good to be caught up as much as I can. Then I watched all the deleted scenes, extras and all the episodes with commentary from Season 2 and 3 (minus the first 8 episodes of season 3 since I had to take it back on Saturday.) THEN at midnight, I watched an episode from season 5. I loved it. One of Michael's best villains came back at the end in impressive fashion. It's nice to see into teh fewcha. THEN one Monday I watched 3 of my favorite season 2/3 episodes. And finally, today I watched the great season premiere of season 2. For the love of God, I NEED to watch season 4 and they need to put the shit on DVD. It sucks that I'm still two seasons behind but at least it's not 4.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Neomysterion X. Prime on February 26, 2011, 06:33:57 PM
Quote from: Angus on February 16, 2011, 06:35:22 PM
Why is Cupcake Wars so frickin' addictive?  :shakeshakeshake:

I have no exact clue, but I remember watching that one last year. I've got to admit, I really love the cupcake art those guys serve up.
It's just too cute to eat.  :blush:

Ontopic, I've been watching Red Green Show reruns on my local PBS affiliate.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on March 05, 2011, 08:02:54 PM
(http://img831.imageshack.us/img831/5894/temp32049240307.gif)

And the MTV2 debut of Bellator is on. I've been waiting forever for this tournament.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on March 07, 2011, 03:43:42 PM
Finished third episode of Sherlock.  :thumbup: It almost played like that Case Closed Time Bombed Skyscraper with the chains of puzzles, but wow, good series that keeps you awake.

Disc 2 has the pilot episode version of the first episode (A Study in Pink).
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on April 09, 2011, 04:26:58 AM
I finally bought The House of Cards Trilogy on dvd and just finished the first installment. I'm glad to say that, so far, the series has lived up to my expectations. Ian Richardson's Francis Urquhart is a fantastic character and would most definitely have made it into the "Greatest Villain" tournament if I had actually seen the show earlier and the rest of the cast has been great as well. Here's hoping that the next two installments live up to the standards set by their preceedor.

Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on April 24, 2011, 09:58:06 AM
I finished The Larry Sanders Show last week, so I've started Wings. I'm somewhere around episode 20 in Season 3.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 02, 2011, 11:10:39 PM
Watched a recon of Evil of the Daleks. While all but one of the seven episodes are preserved only as audio and pictures, it still proves to be a magnificent story. The acting for the Daleks actually manages to serve as unnerving and dissonant, and you definitely get how manipulative the Doctor can be when he wants to, something we seldom see until decades later with Sylvester McCoy. If you have some time, this serial is perfect to get you into watching the classic series.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on May 03, 2011, 06:25:30 AM
I've finally begun to watch the fifth season of The Wire. I'm two episodes in and while the show is still pretty good, I can't say I find the newspaper storyline all that compelling. Oh, well, maybe it picks up.

Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 27, 2011, 02:59:20 PM
Rewatching Sherlock. Fucking hate season cliffhangers, especially ones that take years to finally get resolved.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on May 28, 2011, 11:27:40 AM
I think I've finally reached the second half of season 7 of Wings. Literally, since season 6 (easily this show's shark-jumping season), it's taken me weeks just to get through a season whereas with the first 4 seasons, I got through them in just a few days (not that any of them as a whole were that great, though season 3 was the best and season 5 had the best episode of the whole show so far). Now, I've finally become much too aware of the show's blandness (the only thing worse than Joe and Helen playing the "never gonna get together" cliche is the "married but can't get along" cliche). The show is barely above Step by Step in terms of men-vs-women cliches. Joe was never funny, Faye isn't funny (anymore), Roy was never very funny, Casey isn't really funny, Helen would be funny on helium, Brian is charming but not funny, Alex got while the getting was good, Lowell got out too late... but Antonio is still utterly hilarious. He's probably the only anyone would have to watch the show. Though, I'll keep watching it literally just because I have the hugest crush on Tim Daly.

Which of course brings me to just throw out a recent observation: those damn Sandy Cooper episodes are so painfully unfunny, it makes me downright angry. 3rd time on the show, the same freaking routine. It's her last appearence on the show and they STILL didn't out her craziness to the show's other characters. I used to admire this show because it literally doesn't like confrontation all that much- they don't know how to take an argument scene seriously- and so the resolutions to most of the episodes involve characters who know something other vital characters don't. Like Helen rushing to Mexico to divorce Antonio without Joe finding out or Joe and Brian dressing the coach up like a girl and they funeral-goers never found out- even though Helen was deadset on telling them. That's all well and good, but aside from those great endings- this show has no surprises. (Other than how remarkably hunkalicious "Joe" is and yet, he almost never takes off his clothes- though they sure remedied that when they made Dr. Jekyll and Ms. Hyde.)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on May 28, 2011, 01:54:13 PM
I saw the first few eppies of Wings on Netflix. Took about 4-5 episodes until Helen changed her hair to that iconic blonde style that all the girls wanted back then.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on June 14, 2011, 01:42:01 PM
So, I finished the second disc (containing episodes 4-6) of Berlin Alexanderplatz recently and all I can say that this show/movie (I've seen it classified as both, though it was originally a TV-Show, if I remember correctly) really picked up once Reinhold got introduced. Sure, the guy is a pretty horrible human being but he does make for an interesting opposite to Franz, both physically and mentally.  Speaking of Franz, it's impossible not to feel bad for the poor bastard; he has the worst luck in the world, not to mention the worst so-called "friend".
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 17, 2011, 08:44:00 PM
The N has been airing Freaks and Geeks, so I'm taking the chance to watch it. I started with the third episode, the Halloween one, since I only found out a couple of days ago.

Really liking it so far, though. The character dynamics are great, and this confirms my belief that Seth Rogen should always play a supporting character instead of being the lead. When they finish this run of the show, I'll catch the first two eps, but I'm quite into it so far.

They're also airing Undeclared, which I'll start this upcoming week when they start a new cycle. Buffy's also airing on the channel, but I have the DVDs and have seen it all so many times, so no need there.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 03, 2011, 02:29:48 PM
Poirot's been making the rounds on my TV screen. David Suchet's performance is to die for. One interesting tidbit that comes from following these shows is recognizing how one of the actresses on the episode I'm watching right now (Hallowe'en Party) played Agatha Christie on Doctor Who.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on July 03, 2011, 04:54:55 PM
Why is it that I finally get interested in a popular series and then find it's no longer available on Hulu?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: ToonFaithful on July 04, 2011, 12:50:51 AM
Watchin' the Chappelle Show Vol. 1 Uncensored DVD. The man is hilarious.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on July 04, 2011, 01:25:22 AM
Season 2 was soooo funny. It's really too bad that he had a meltdown, because some of that shit STILL gets me rolling.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 04, 2011, 01:30:06 AM
God, I remember seeing the entire second season over and over again each day for the entire Summer back in 2006...

...it's kind of burned into my brain even now so the rewatch value has become absolutely nil. I'm convinced that even if I got amnesia, whatever remained of my implicit memory would still remember Rick James dirtying up a couch with his shoes.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 04, 2011, 10:04:59 AM
I didn't really like the "season 3" eps we got, but those first two were good stuff.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on July 04, 2011, 06:12:23 PM
"Season 3" was putrid. I think the only one that got a laugh out of me was the Tupac one, everything else (especially that Monsters sketch) was just painful to sit through.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 04, 2011, 06:18:17 PM
I remember hearing how the reason for season 3's poor quality (other than the obvious) was because Dave was being harassed by CC execs since they wanted the show to have more fratboy humor and catch phrases. Eventually, they got their wish with Mind of Mencia. But that's long since cancelled, so I guess Dave got the last laugh there.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on July 04, 2011, 07:03:07 PM
Mind Of Mencia was so fucking awful.

Take away everything that made Chappelle funny, make everything loud and obnoxious, and throw in the most annoying catchphrase ever devised, and you have that piece of shit show no one would stop talking about.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on July 04, 2011, 07:16:00 PM
Carlos Mencia's "comedy" is a running joke between my friends and I. Mind of Mencia is one of the worst shows of all time.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: ToonFaithful on July 04, 2011, 10:11:23 PM
I heard Dave Chappelle is working on a new show and it will be available to services such as Netflix and Crackle. Stand-up or skit comedy, I'll be tooning in.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Kiddington on August 04, 2011, 09:28:30 PM
Been watching Shark Week for the past few days.

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g_5rwo3YKZs/ThKq6WZC5sI/AAAAAAAAAOU/PjIA3TfYfEQ/s1600/shark-week.jpg)

Ya know ya love it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Lord Dalek on August 05, 2011, 12:23:42 PM
Watching True Blood.

Because I have no sense of self-worth anymore.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Rosalinas Spare Wand on August 08, 2011, 02:02:36 AM
Big Bad Motherfucking Beetleborgs.

I love how much more unique this show was from the other Power Ranger clones back in the day. Half the show is a comedy about monsters in an abandoned mansion, the other half is a glorious living the dream scenario with kids turning into bug themed Rangers. Plus, they never take themselves too seriously, so they often win simply by outsmarting the villains or just using slapstick antics. The stock footage is still badly intercut, but at least the suits look great in both US and japanese scenes.

Holds up much better than VR Troopers ever did.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on August 08, 2011, 02:09:44 PM
Quote from: Lord Dalek on August 05, 2011, 12:23:42 PM
Watching True Blood.

Because I have no sense of self-worth anymore.

I didn't realize True Blood turned into a guilty pleasure?  :blush: Just started season 3 myself, they sure introduced a ton of new characters, and are getting into that multi-tasking plot format.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on August 22, 2011, 10:09:29 PM
Got roped into watching Haven. Supposedly has a bunch of Stephen King references.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on September 15, 2011, 03:26:37 PM
Deadliest Warrior. Pretty cool seeing the different kinds of ancient weapons being demonstrated.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on September 17, 2011, 11:20:56 PM
Watching the new Battlestar Galactica again. I love this series, goddamn. It holds up shockingly well on the second viewing, though a good reasoning for why I find it to be better this time around could be because I am not 12. I mean, I was 15 when the finale aired, but yeah. I'm surprised my taste was this good back then... doesn't really seem like something a kiddo would enjoy. Anyway, this show has great writing and acting; much of it is quite intense. Riveting stuff.

I love Baltar! His hilariously unintentional evil that ends up ruining everyone's lives (and making just about everybody on both sides hate him) is brilliant. James Callis really nails it with his performance.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 17, 2011, 11:29:25 PM
Since I finished Beast Wars and don't have anything else to watch besides a few series I plan to view on Netflix (Firefox hates Instant Queue- go figure), I started watching Alfred Hitchcock Presents on Hulu.

I've seen a couple of episodes before, but I'm watching it all now. Pretty cool stuff, all in all. Sometimes it feels like Twilight Zone leftovers, but other episodes seem like half hour versions of the master's stories, which is just right. And you gotta love his macabre sense of humor.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on September 17, 2011, 11:32:43 PM
Just saw The Girl Who Waited and The God Complex back-to-back. Doctor, you bastard. :frown:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 20, 2011, 10:20:12 PM
So far, I think "The Older Sister" is my favorite episode of AHP. It's as creepy as I'd expect the show to be, in a good way.

That said, I think I'm going to stop watching the show for a little. I just remembered one series I've been meaning to watch that is on Hulu- Babylon 5. Starting that up tomorrow.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on September 20, 2011, 10:24:49 PM
Seems like they only have the first 2 seasons, when the show started getting good at the third, IMO.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 20, 2011, 10:28:17 PM
I think they're uploading on a weekly basis, since they only have a couple of episodes of 2. I'll look around elsewhere by the time I'm done with what they have.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on September 24, 2011, 11:22:07 PM
Just finished watching the extended cut of "Unfinished Business." Surprisingly a lot more tolerable than the version that was aired on TV, but still by far one of my least favorite BSG episodes.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 24, 2011, 11:48:41 PM
For some reason, I can't get Babylon 5 to load past episode 1 on Hulu, so I'll look elsewhere for that whenever.

Also, finally watching Doctor Who in my room now. Starting with the Eccleston run, then going to catch up to now.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on September 29, 2011, 02:15:13 AM
Been rewatching a bit of Buffy, and unfortunately starting to understand the criticisms. I mean, ever since I got into the show and hearing the dialogue, I wondered why Joss never tried his hand at prose. But now I realize that the comebacks, the one-liners, and all that lose a lot of their meaning when you don't have faces or voices to put on them. Instead, everything just sounds so homogenized, where the only character you could perfectly tell apart from their dialogue would probably be Drusilla (and maybe Giles and the Mayor). I still like the show, but it's hard to get over that.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Kiddington on September 29, 2011, 05:34:20 PM
So I finally caught Ted Danson on CSI last night. You know, being a big Cheers fan and all, curiosity got the better of me.

Uhh... yeah, still sucks. And now, they're officially desperate.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on October 02, 2011, 11:32:10 PM
Just finished watching Battlestar (well, I haven't watched The Plan yet, but it's The Plan, so...) for the second time. Held up really well for the repeat viewing, and I found myself appreciating many of the subtleties and nuances a lot more this time around. It was also quite nice seeing the extended versions of several episodes, as I had only seen the broadcast versions before.

I still stand by my opinion that Daybreak was a great episode. They could have handled the ending better, sure, but aside from the fact that the whole "harbinger of death" thing amounted to absolutely nothing and a few select scenes where Ron Moore attempted to use Baltar as a vehicle to preach his religious views, it was excellent. The flashbacks were wonderful and the huge battle at the Cylon Colony was awesome and IMO easily rivals any similar scene ever put on film.

Personally, I would have ended the series with Starbuck accidentally jumping the Galactica directly into the Sun, but I'm a sadistic bastard and can't resist a good kill 'em all ending.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 18, 2011, 09:57:37 PM
I found this list on Community's FB page (http://www.buddytv.com/slideshows/community/smart-shows-10-tv-shows-that-get-better-when-you-think-14622.aspx), and I'm surprised with how many of these shows I'm familiar with.

10- So yeah, you all should know that I'm hugely obsessed with this show, and I don't think it's lost a bit of its power in recent years at all. It remains as consistently hilarious and heartbreaking now as it did since the very beginning, and I think it'll stay that way until the very end. I'd put it higher myself.
9- Okay, this one I'm not really familiar with at all. But word is good from what I've seen.
8- Also haven't seen this one. To be honest, I tend to avoid Abrams-like epics, and this doesn't seem that different from the lot of his shows.
7- I wrote about this show elsewhere, but I agree that it's really something special. I think after I'm done with Doctor Who, I'm going to marathon all that's aired so far and make a thread for it.
6- I love what I've seen, although I haven't had the time to watch it regularly. Sooner or later though, I plan to change that.
5- I disagree with this one entirely. Super obscure references =/= intelligent humor. Or actual humor.
4- See: #6
3- A little too high for my taste, but it still has its moments of brilliance, sure.
2- Unsurprising. I don't watch either show regularly, but I really like them both from what I've seen.
1- I actually bitched about this show the other day on here, but really, they're spot on here. It really is that emotionally and humorously challenging, in an often rewarding way. Even though the shipping aspect is weird, the characters are still dynamite.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 07, 2011, 07:26:43 PM
New Misfits is love.

(http://30.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_ltwo5m770u1qe3p9bo1_500.gif)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on November 20, 2011, 06:31:48 AM
Almost done with season 3 of Buffy, I think this is my favorite season, out of the ones I've seen so far. Of course, a lot of that has to do with it's main villain, Angelus was great as the sadistic friend-turned bad guy (although, chronologically he was evil before turning good),but I'd say that Mayor Wilkins has him beat when it comes to sheer entertainment value. I just love this guy.

Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 23, 2012, 10:03:40 AM
I finally started watching Sherlock, and I'm wondering why I've taken so long. I don't think you guys know this, but I'm a really big fan of the character and Doyle's original stories, and I think this is an ace, if far from perfect, modernization of Holmes.

I really do hope that CBS doesn't go with their Americanization, btw. I think the world needs to be spared seeing Holmes in New York. We're still trying to get over Sherlock Holmes in the 22nd Century.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on February 08, 2012, 09:33:22 PM
Watching Slings & Arrows. And liking it a bit. A little too much like Six Feet Under, but it's still good.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on February 08, 2012, 09:41:02 PM
I don't really see much in the way of similarities between the two. The first two episodes, maybe a bit. Everything after that? Not at all.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on February 09, 2012, 08:09:22 PM
So I just watched the first episode of a 90's sci-fi show named Lexx. It was... really fucking weird, but I liked it. I think. I laughed at a lot of the jokes and was intrigued by the strangeness of it all, so I guess it was good? I'm not really sure. Will continue watching, but it's a bit of a trip. Imagine if both versions of Battlestar Galactica did a bunch of recreational drugs, had sex, and produced a mentally unstable child. That's what this series reminds me of.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on February 11, 2012, 08:23:47 PM
Second episode was pretty cool. Tim Curry was deliciously evil (as always) in his guest star role. Wasn't as good as the first episode, but I heard the series becomes truly great in season 2 (and there's only 4 episodes in the first one!).
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on February 21, 2012, 09:35:41 PM
Where Modern Family satisfies my need for crazed parents on TV, Outnumbered does it for children. Love it whenever Karen talks.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on March 27, 2012, 01:19:57 PM
Watching first season Supernatural back when it was just hashing out classic horror stories of the week.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on April 02, 2012, 04:07:43 PM
Quote from: Kiddington on September 29, 2011, 05:34:20 PM
So I finally caught Ted Danson on CSI last night. You know, being a big Cheers fan and all, curiosity got the better of me.

Uhh... yeah, still sucks. And now, they're officially desperate.

Funny you mention him when they added Elisabeth Shue as well. Miami's gotten some fun with the corrupt lawyer throwing in monkey wrenches on the team.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Kiddington on April 12, 2012, 02:18:30 AM
Quote from: Angus on April 02, 2012, 04:07:43 PM
Quote from: Kiddington on September 29, 2011, 05:34:20 PM
So I finally caught Ted Danson on CSI last night. You know, being a big Cheers fan and all, curiosity got the better of me.

Uhh... yeah, still sucks. And now, they're officially desperate.

Funny you mention him when they added Elisabeth Shue as well. Miami's gotten some fun with the corrupt lawyer throwing in monkey wrenches on the team.

Yeah, I see Marg Helgenberger left now as well. There's almost nobody left from the original cast, as far as I can tell.

I called this like five years ago, and as it'd happen to turn out, I was right. Basically, CSI is the new Law & Order; a simple concept crime procedural with an interchangeable cast of thousands that leave and come back every five years. Can't say I'm surprised, either; once this took off and became a "hit", it was only a matter of time.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 13, 2012, 12:36:45 AM
I feel compelled to try some Quantum Leap out. Not every episode is on Netflix instant though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on April 13, 2012, 02:42:41 PM
When I read the first episodes of Yu Yu Hakusho (and Bleach), I thought about Quantum Leap.  Could have been one way to go with the show, if they didn't want all the fighting action.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 16, 2012, 02:40:38 PM
So I got bored the other day and checked out all of the past winners for TV Land's award show tihngy. Apparently they have, or had, a future classic award, and looking at the recipients made me laugh. There's a lot of interesting choices for what will eventually be considered a classic, and here they are-

2003- American Dreams

Uh, who the hell ever talks about this show before? Actually, I can't think of too many people who ever did in the first place. And all I remember was that John Mayer played Clapton in an episode. Really weak choice here.

2004- Arrested Development

Much better choice. Sadly all the awards in the world couldn't save the show during its original run (maybe if it was on NBC it could've), but even if it's not a favorite of mine, time has been kind to AD and will continue to. Unless the new season and movie really suck.

2005- Desperate Housewives

...really? I mean, I remember the show being well-received during the first 2 seasons, but it seems all but forgotten now. If it was particularly good, I could understand the accolade and why it's been on for so long, but this is just another soap opera with a corny sense of humor.

2006- Grey's Anatomy

I'm not so sure. The show does still seem to have some amount of popularity years later and has had success for most people involved, but as a medical show, it isn't as likable as ER in its earlier run or as accurate as Scrubs (isn't that a scary thought), and there's a little too much estrogen fueling it to make the show hold up for male viewers. It isn't my thing, but I will at least give it credit for not turning into a revolving door series yet. Plus Demi was really good in her episode.

2007- Heroes

Oh god no. This is the key example of a show with a deadly sophomore slump, where it turns so bad after a solid first season that you realize that they had no idea what they were doing to begin with. If they went with Lost, they would've had something, but Heroes? No.

2008- The Office

I'm not a fan, but I can see where they're coming from by picking the show. I still think that Scrubs is where most if not all modern comedies come from, but The Office will probably be just as remembered in the years to come, plus it was partially responsible for Parks and Rec and Modern Family, which it deserves credit for. I also like how they gave the award to a show that wasn't just a season in.

2009- Two and a Half Men

Okay, as much as it sucks to admit it, in 10 or 20 years, this will probably be considered a classic sitcom. It's too popular now to be forgotten so soon and it's already making a killing in syndication. Expect to see it on TV Land and Nick@Nite in a few years after it ends.

I will say though, that this year NPH hosted the awards. And that they should have given the award to another CBS comedy instead.

2010- Glee

Oh god, I sure hope it's not considered a classic. And while the show has made enough of a dent in pop culture to possibly go in that route, it also has had a major drop in quality since the first season that has been affecting its popularity ever since, and could also affect its likelihood of being fondly remembered by many.

There wasn't any inductees last year, and idk if there will be one this year. But it sure makes you think.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on April 20, 2012, 04:07:06 PM
I have El Chavo on the TV right now. Three years of Spanish suddenly coming back to me.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on April 20, 2012, 04:16:30 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on April 16, 2012, 02:40:38 PM
So I got bored the other day and checked out all of the past winners for TV Land's award show tihngy. Apparently they have, or had, a future classic award, and looking at the recipients made me laugh. There's a lot of interesting choices for what will eventually be considered a classic, and here they are-

2003- American Dreams

Uh, who the hell ever talks about this show before? Actually, I can't think of too many people who ever did in the first place. And all I remember was that John Mayer played Clapton in an episode. Really weak choice here.

2004- Arrested Development

Much better choice. Sadly all the awards in the world couldn't save the show during its original run (maybe if it was on NBC it could've), but even if it's not a favorite of mine, time has been kind to AD and will continue to. Unless the new season and movie really suck.

2005- Desperate Housewives

...really? I mean, I remember the show being well-received during the first 2 seasons, but it seems all but forgotten now. If it was particularly good, I could understand the accolade and why it's been on for so long, but this is just another soap opera with a corny sense of humor.

2006- Grey's Anatomy

I'm not so sure. The show does still seem to have some amount of popularity years later and has had success for most people involved, but as a medical show, it isn't as likable as ER in its earlier run or as accurate as Scrubs (isn't that a scary thought), and there's a little too much estrogen fueling it to make the show hold up for male viewers. It isn't my thing, but I will at least give it credit for not turning into a revolving door series yet. Plus Demi was really good in her episode.

2007- Heroes

Oh god no. This is the key example of a show with a deadly sophomore slump, where it turns so bad after a solid first season that you realize that they had no idea what they were doing to begin with. If they went with Lost, they would've had something, but Heroes? No.

2008- The Office

I'm not a fan, but I can see where they're coming from by picking the show. I still think that Scrubs is where most if not all modern comedies come from, but The Office will probably be just as remembered in the years to come, plus it was partially responsible for Parks and Rec and Modern Family, which it deserves credit for. I also like how they gave the award to a show that wasn't just a season in.

2009- Two and a Half Men

Okay, as much as it sucks to admit it, in 10 or 20 years, this will probably be considered a classic sitcom. It's too popular now to be forgotten so soon and it's already making a killing in syndication. Expect to see it on TV Land and Nick@Nite in a few years after it ends.

I will say though, that this year NPH hosted the awards. And that they should have given the award to another CBS comedy instead.

2010- Glee

Oh god, I sure hope it's not considered a classic. And while the show has made enough of a dent in pop culture to possibly go in that route, it also has had a major drop in quality since the first season that has been affecting its popularity ever since, and could also affect its likelihood of being fondly remembered by many.

There wasn't any inductees last year, and idk if there will be one this year. But it sure makes you think.
The 2000s really blew for live action TV if those are the best shows in their respective years.

Also, Grey's Anatomy is just a soap opera with a bigger budget.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on April 20, 2012, 04:17:26 PM
Award Ceremonies don't know shit about good 2000s TV. After all, THE WIRE. Never got a single Emmy.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 20, 2012, 04:33:23 PM
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 20, 2012, 04:16:30 PM
Also, Grey's Anatomy is just a soap opera with a bigger budget.
Eh, you can say that about any network drama that isn't a crime show or sci-fi/mystery/adventure serial though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Kiddington on April 20, 2012, 04:35:16 PM
I've never even heard of American Dreams (goggling it gave me a good chuckle, though; some of these casting choices for historical musical figures are downright laughable). What does that say about me, or for that matter, what does that say about TV Land for awarding something to such a nondescript series?

The only two on that list I agree with are AD and The Office. Heroes had a good thing going for itself, but they screwed it up so badly in the end that it's hard to even take the good portions of it seriously now. You know how I feel about Two and a Half Men. My mom likes Desperate Housewives, but I've never seen much of it myself. I watched Grey's Anatomy once, and Sandra Oh's character was being such an annoying bitch, I couldn't stand it (the whole thing just oozes way too much estrogen for me anyway, though). And Glee... I really have nothing to say about Glee anymore. It's one of the worst things on TV, and I seriously wish it would just go away.

So yeah, 2/8 (for me, anyway). Maybe it's a good thing that they discontinued this award in 2011, eh?  :humhumhum:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on April 20, 2012, 04:36:28 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on April 20, 2012, 04:33:23 PM
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 20, 2012, 04:16:30 PM
Also, Grey's Anatomy is just a soap opera with a bigger budget.
Eh, you can say that about any network drama that isn't a crime show or sci-fi/mystery/adventure serial though.
Do those shows have characters named McDreamy or McSteamy?  :unimpressed:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 20, 2012, 04:37:52 PM
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 20, 2012, 04:36:28 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on April 20, 2012, 04:33:23 PM
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on April 20, 2012, 04:16:30 PM
Also, Grey's Anatomy is just a soap opera with a bigger budget.
Eh, you can say that about any network drama that isn't a crime show or sci-fi/mystery/adventure serial though.
Do those shows have characters named McDreamy or McSteamy?  :unimpressed:
No, but Gilmore Girls had Melissa McCarthy. Is that any better?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on April 24, 2012, 06:35:35 PM
Heroes? Really? They're just finding an excuse to snub Lost.

Grey's Anatomy? *snore*
Desperate Housewives? *snore* Even Sex and the City is more classic than that.

How could they forget Monk?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on April 27, 2012, 07:07:42 PM
I've been watching My Name Is Earl on Netflix. I didn't see much of this when it was on, but a friend coerced me into watching more.

I like! The show clearly has a lot of heart put into it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Commode on April 27, 2012, 07:09:05 PM
I like the show, it's got some "eh" moments in it, and I never saw the end, but it's good.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on April 27, 2012, 07:14:47 PM
Early seasons are great, middle ones are average at best, never saw the later ones.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 27, 2012, 08:02:32 PM
I like that Earl wore a "Can I Play With Madness" tee, even if it is one of my least favorite Maiden singles.

But I think it got way too gimmicky as it went along, like with the whole Earl in a coma storyarc.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Daxdiv on April 27, 2012, 11:59:29 PM
I remember not following the show sometime after Earl got out of prison. I forgot why I didn't follow it after that, since I did enjoy it since it almost was like Shawshank Redemption in a way in that Earl helps a warden out with his problems around the prison.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on April 28, 2012, 06:30:21 PM
I'm still in season 1, but so far I've really enjoyed it. I kinda felt bad for his dad in the mayor episode until he rejected Earl after getting nominated. The ending made up for that, though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Kiddington on April 28, 2012, 09:11:07 PM
It still bothers me that they ended the series on an unsolved cliffhanger. I mean, if NBC can afford to keep zombie Office going for years and years after its "best by" date, why couldn't they have at least given Earl a courtesy final season to wrap things up? At least they didn't make that same mistake twice with Chuck, but still.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on April 28, 2012, 09:14:14 PM
I think it was intentional. My friend begged me to watch it so I did.

Basically that the story really isn't ever going to end, Earl's quest for peace is eternal!  ;)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Daxdiv on April 29, 2012, 11:40:36 PM
I think on that show Raising Hope, they made a reference to Earl's quest being over or that he at least finished his list. There was a line in the pilot that went "In lighter news, a small-time crook with a long list of wrongs he was making amends for has finally finished, and you?ll never guess how it ended..."
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on April 29, 2012, 11:50:30 PM
Quote from: Daxdiv on April 29, 2012, 11:40:36 PM
I think on that show Raising Hope, they made a reference to Earl's quest being over or that he at least finished his list. There was a line in the pilot that went "In lighter news, a small-time crook with a long list of wrongs he was making amends for has finally finished, and you?ll never guess how it ended..."
Yeah, the list was might be done, but that his eternal peace wouldn't be achieved with just that. It was basically one chapter of his life, the story is ongoing. I don't really think a "proper" finale would have worked with this show.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Kiddington on April 30, 2012, 12:26:07 AM
Quote from: Daxdiv on April 29, 2012, 11:40:36 PM
I think on that show Raising Hope, they made a reference to Earl's quest being over or that he at least finished his list. There was a line in the pilot that went "In lighter news, a small-time crook with a long list of wrongs he was making amends for has finally finished, and you?ll never guess how it ended..."

Raising Hope was created by the same guy who also made Earl (Greg Thomas Garcia), so it only makes sense that he would throw in a clever reference to his former series in there.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on April 30, 2012, 01:22:43 AM
My inexplicable search for J-dramas has led me to such shows as Nobuta wo Produce and Gokusen. And then there are some K-Dramas one of my friends recommended.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 06, 2012, 08:02:56 PM
So Sherlock's back on, dashing as ever.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on May 07, 2012, 09:27:57 AM
Series 2?  :swoon:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 11, 2012, 04:26:44 PM
BBCA's been rerunning Battlestar Galactica, so it's been fun going back to those A-shaped halls.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on May 11, 2012, 04:41:08 PM
I like to pretend that the series got cancelled after Exodus, Part 2. It'd still be my favorite TV show of all time if that were the case.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 11, 2012, 06:00:22 PM
Quote from: Foggle on May 11, 2012, 04:41:08 PM
I like to pretend that the series got cancelled after Exodus, Part 2. It'd still be my favorite TV show of all time if that were the case.
Eh, a crappy ending's better than no ending.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on May 11, 2012, 06:03:04 PM
It's not the ending itself so much as the build up to it. Foreshadowing is literally discarded due to the writers having no idea where to take the story. The reveal of the Final Five Cylons is stupid and their actual identities are stupider. Etc.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 11, 2012, 06:09:03 PM
A handful of characters, three of which nobody gave a fuck about, find out their true identity to the tune of a Bob Dylan song. :whuh:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on May 11, 2012, 06:10:51 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on May 11, 2012, 06:09:03 PM
A handful of characters, three of which nobody gave a fuck about, find out their true identity to the tune of a Bob Dylan song. :whuh:
And one of which being my second favorite character after Baltar... :-X
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 11, 2012, 06:15:56 PM
Quote from: Foggle on May 11, 2012, 06:10:51 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on May 11, 2012, 06:09:03 PM
A handful of characters, three of which nobody gave a fuck about, find out their true identity to the tune of a Bob Dylan song. :whuh:
And one of which being my second favorite character after Baltar... :-X
Eh, at least my favorite character didn't turn out to be a Cylon.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on May 12, 2012, 06:02:01 PM
Blowin' in the Wind? .3.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on May 13, 2012, 11:25:50 AM
Sherlock series 2 made it to PBS finally!

It's under Masterpiece Mystery.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on May 13, 2012, 11:48:47 PM
Betty White's Off Their Rockers - think Jackass and Candid Camera performed by old people.


Well, that lasted about 20 minutes, then the lil' pups came in. It's not family friendly.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 19, 2012, 01:00:19 PM
I still don't understand why CBS needs to make a Sherlock show. Why not do Philip Marlowe instead? He's basically the American Holmes, and much less overused.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on May 22, 2012, 09:36:12 PM
Wow, had to look that up: Lucy Liu as Dr. Watson

http://www.cinemablend.com/television/Elementary-Preview-Look-CBS-Sherlock-Holmes-Drama-42585.html

I can't imagine this will be anywhere close to the BBC one which totally defines the modern day Sherlock Holmes.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 22, 2012, 09:42:44 PM
I still think Hugh Laurie defined the modern day Sherlock Holmes for a good half-decade before Cumberbatch did. But alas, I'm still wary of this version.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on May 22, 2012, 09:55:45 PM
Curious about the Hugh Laurie ones; are they closer to the book storylines?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 22, 2012, 09:56:41 PM
Quote from: Angus on May 22, 2012, 09:55:45 PM
Curious about the Hugh Laurie ones; are they closer to the book storylines?
I meant House MD.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on June 16, 2012, 10:02:05 PM
I am finally starting to watch Breaking Bad.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 17, 2012, 12:23:31 AM
Been watching some classics tonight. Bewitched and Mary Tyler Moore in particular.

"Chuckles Bites the Dust" is the perfect sitcom episode.

Man, it's fun seeing Betty White being a sweet old lady instead of the cantankerous one she plays today.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 01, 2012, 11:48:32 AM
I couldn't sleep last night so I decided to watch my first Star Trek episode. I went with "Journey to Babel", which was good. I don't get why Spock's mom was being so demanding about him doing the blood transfusion with his dad if it would possibly kill him though. Wouldn't you think that she would put her son over her husband?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 08, 2012, 05:39:49 PM
Watching more Star Trek, I think my problem with the show is that Shatner was simply too old to play Kirk. He was like what, 40 when the show started? And he already has hi middle age belly and loss of agility even then.

It's still entertaining though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 01, 2012, 02:00:16 PM
So I'm stopping my NGE rewatch to begin Breaking Bad.

I had to flip a coin to choose between that or Mad Men.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Kiddington on August 02, 2012, 01:32:38 AM
You won't be disappointed.

...speaking of Mad Men though, btw, there's one I really need to get around to sitting down with from the beginning. Can't believe how much I've missed up to this point.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 02, 2012, 02:55:49 PM
I'm three episodes in so far. It's good, but it really seems like this is Plot Twists: The Series.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on August 07, 2012, 03:59:47 AM
Malcolm in the Middle becomes retroactively funnier after watching Breaking Bad. All of Hal's antics can be interpreted as Walt becoming a little too crazy from the meth lab.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on August 27, 2012, 10:18:01 PM
I'm watching the first episode of Life With Lucy. You know what it's like to go to the retirement home and see your grandma that you loved when you were a kid, but now she's senile and it's just kind of uncomfortable and heartcrushing to talk to her? That's what this show is like.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on August 27, 2012, 10:27:31 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on August 27, 2012, 10:18:01 PM
Life With Lucy
Wut.

*5 seconds of Google later*

holy fucking shit why is this a thing

(http://i48.tinypic.com/2uiam39.jpg)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on August 27, 2012, 10:28:57 PM
Quote from: Foggle on August 27, 2012, 10:27:31 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on August 27, 2012, 10:18:01 PM
Life With Lucy
Wut.

*5 seconds of Google later*

holy fucking shit why is this a thing
She wanted to stay relevant, which she probably could've done by playing a Golden Girl instead of this.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 27, 2012, 10:37:47 PM
Yeah, this was so bad that after it got swept under the rug, Lucy went into self-imposed retirement until she died.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 30, 2012, 10:35:24 AM
I'm still watching some Star Trek in between Breaking Bad, and I just started a little of TNG.

While the Borg are really cool and I love seeing Xanatos in action, I think I prefer the original. Maybe it's because I've just grown to love Kirk, Spock and Bones.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on September 01, 2012, 06:31:36 PM
I just started watching Bordwalk Empire from the season 1 DVD set. I'm 2 episodes in so far and its a damn good show. To be honest, I can't get into most HBO shows for some reason, but I love almost anything directed or produced by Martin Scorsese, and this show so far is certainly no exception. I do wonder if the show can maintain this level of quality over numerous episodes, though, but given its positive reviews I'm sure that it does, somehow.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on September 01, 2012, 06:37:51 PM
Quote from: Ensatsu-ken on September 01, 2012, 06:31:36 PM
I just started watching Bordwalk Empire from the season 1 DVD set. I'm 2 episodes in so far and its a damn good show. To be honest, I can't get into most HBO shows for some reason, but I love almost anything directed or produced by Martin Scorsese, and this show so far is certainly no exception. I do wonder if the show can maintain this level of quality over numerous episodes, though, but given its positive reviews I'm sure that it does, somehow.
Does that mean what I think it means? :srs:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on September 01, 2012, 06:51:56 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on September 01, 2012, 06:37:51 PM
Quote from: Ensatsu-ken on September 01, 2012, 06:31:36 PM
I just started watching Bordwalk Empire from the season 1 DVD set. I'm 2 episodes in so far and its a damn good show. To be honest, I can't get into most HBO shows for some reason, but I love almost anything directed or produced by Martin Scorsese, and this show so far is certainly no exception. I do wonder if the show can maintain this level of quality over numerous episodes, though, but given its positive reviews I'm sure that it does, somehow.
Does that mean what I think it means? :srs:

I haven't actually seen The Wire yet, so cool down. :D

I will say that I can't get the appeal of Game of Thrones, though. Yeah, I really tried to get into it, and it seemed like my sort of show, but I just get bored by it, honestly.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 01, 2012, 06:52:58 PM
Aww.

Well, I've only read the first book, which I loved.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on September 01, 2012, 07:05:28 PM
I haven't ever read any of the books from George R. R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series, so my opinion doesn't extend to those. I just couldn't get into the show, which is a shame because by all accounts I should really like it but for whatever reason which I can't entirely explain myself, I just don't find it all that interesting, personally.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on September 01, 2012, 07:06:16 PM
Quote from: Ensatsu-ken on September 01, 2012, 07:05:28 PM
I haven't ever ready any of the books from George R. R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series, so my opinion doesn't extend to those. I just couldn't get into the show, which is a shame because by all accounts I should really like it but for whatever reason which I can't entirely explain myself, I just don't find it all that interesting, personally.
Was it the incest or how half the cast were awful pricks?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on September 01, 2012, 09:22:12 PM
I hate incest, but that's something that can occasionally lead to interesting fiction, like in Oedipus....which is currently the only example I can think of in that regard, so yes I hate incest, especially in shows that think they are being smart about it but instead just come off like they have a strange fetish for it.

That said, that's not really much of a problem I have with the show. I can also deal with pricks in a cast if the story still has interesting and 3-dimensional characters. Like I said, my problem is that I just find it all rather boring. I'm not entirely sure why, but something about the show just doesn't click with me when I'm watching it, and I can't find myself to actually care enough about what's going on at any given moment. I suppose its one of those things that just doesn't work for me, personally. I can respect it well enough as a good show as it has clearly garnered a huge fan following and a lot of critical acclaim, but its just not for me.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on September 02, 2012, 04:08:03 AM
And speaking of HBO shows, I watched a little of The Newsroom. It's crisp and well-acted, but comes with the characters giving out overwrought speeches about how America sucks. I mean, it makes sense, given that it's a show about the news. But still, subtlety is not this show's virtue.

Also, the main character seems to despise everything with a vagina, and gets patted on the back for it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Peanutbutter on September 17, 2012, 03:19:44 PM
Saw a preview of Revolution's pilot on On Demand. So far, I liked it. Some nice action and the story so far is interesting. The actor that plays the son isn't very good, but the daughter is passable enough, and Uncle Miles seems like a cool character. Depending on how the plot turns out, he may end up carrying the show. But overall, the first episode is good.


Also caught Matthew Perry's sitcom Go On and found it to be surprisingly funny.  I'll say more about when I see more episodes.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 20, 2012, 07:37:23 PM
So while my mom decides to pause X-Factor to have a smoke, I'm trying to decide what I'm going to watch after Breaking Bad- Mad Men or Better Off Ted

Ted has only 2 seasons, and both shows are around the same length, but Mad Men does have more to come, which would require precedence in catching up with it.

Decisions, decisions.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on September 20, 2012, 07:42:13 PM
The Wire
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on September 20, 2012, 07:43:10 PM
Disappeared.

Chilling stuff.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 23, 2012, 07:04:27 PM
So since I never got an answer, I'm going with Better off Ted. I sure hope it's as good as everyone else says.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on September 24, 2012, 12:22:56 AM
There are so many goddamn British shows now that you could describe as "Buffy... but with boring dialogue".
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on September 25, 2012, 11:08:32 AM
I've been watching NewsRadio's 4th and 5th season on YouTube. Finally got into it. Originally, I started watching it but got REALLY sick of Lauren Graham's character and wondered where the HELL the show was going... well, after about 3 eps, she took a hike and now I've begun really enjoying it. Even laughing more at it than I have the previous seasons. I'm at the episodes now where Jon Lovitz came in as a replacement. I liked him immediately.

I also... tried picking up Frasier where I left off and when I got to the episode where he was ready to dump Claire, I was ready to KILL HIM. However, they actually managed to clean up that mess in an episode where he trekked up to a cabin to yell at Lilith and Diane and... there's a shot were apparently 10 or more actresses who appeared on the show years before as his girlfriends showed up to do 1 shot where he opens the door and they're all waving at him. 4 seconds, hope it was worth it- ladies. Anyway, I skipped to the Halloween episode (which kinda sucked) and stopped there.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 17, 2012, 09:03:46 PM
So Fox is ran by idiots.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Commode on October 17, 2012, 09:09:53 PM
Uh, yeah?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 17, 2012, 09:13:56 PM
And you figured this out now?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 17, 2012, 09:14:13 PM
So tonight's X-Factor night, right? It's only supposed to air one day this week, instead of tonight and Thursday cause of the World Series. But the show is pre-empted a few minutes in for wrap-up of tonight's game.

Which is fine, since the MLB is important. But what isn't fine is that when they're done with the post-show, they air an episode of Ben & Kate instead. And this isn't just a couple of minutes of this show, they air the whole fucking thing.

The eventually do air X-Factor, commercials and all, around 8:40. And that lasts for about an hour when, instead of keeping up with the airing, they replace the show with The Mindy Project about 10-15 minutes before 10. No explanation at all. Which may be just as well, since Fox airs their news at 10, but at least give us something.

They're going to air the show in full next Tuesday, but this whole ordeal was fucking stupid.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 17, 2012, 09:15:28 PM
>>Holding The X-Factor up as something of unironic entertainment value.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 17, 2012, 09:17:52 PM
Demi.

Even if I didn't watch it, this would still be shitty. It sucked when they pre-empted and entirely cancelled Futurama airings for sports events nearly a decade ago, and it still sucks now.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Commode on October 17, 2012, 09:17:59 PM
It's because of Demi.  It has to be because of Demi.

^yep.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Commode on October 17, 2012, 09:21:09 PM
Well, sports are important, especially football, so many people watch it and the network makes so much in ad revenue.  Baseball on the other hand is boring as hell, as the American populace has found out in recent years, since even the World Series gets pretty terrible ratings.

And all those sports fans don't care if some stupid cartoon show or show with a bunch of people looking for their 15 minutes of fame get preempted and eventually canceled.

SPORTS!
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 17, 2012, 09:22:26 PM
And now I'm reminded that I need to start Better Off Ted, since that was another show that had episodes entirely pulled off for sporting events. This one got its last couple of episodes dropped in favor of March Madness.

No one else a fan on here? Okay.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 18, 2012, 09:02:08 PM
So, Mr. Feeny was on Grey's Anatomy. Only reason I ever watched that show.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 18, 2012, 09:33:51 PM
I saw the one with Demi. She was really good, but I can't help but feel like she wasn't exactly acting, now that everyone knows her story.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 18, 2012, 11:14:25 PM
So, I just watched the first 2 episodes of Buffy: The Vampire Slayer, since I know that Avaitor's a big fan of the show and his tastes usually seem to coincide with mine. From what I've seen so far, its decent enough entertainment, though admittedly there were a lot of predictable cliches and typical 90's cheese in that first 2-parter, but I'm willing to put up with it if the show kind of grows out of that in later seasons. I heard that the show goes from being relatively decent to really good after a certain point. Anyone care to tell me exactly when that point is so I know when to expect it? Either way, I'll still watch all of the episodes in order, but it'll be pretty infrequently (as with all things), due to my busy schedule.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 18, 2012, 11:15:13 PM
When Spike appears, early on in the second season.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 18, 2012, 11:19:37 PM
You can really just skip all the way up to Spike's first episode in season 2. Just watch the first 2 episodes and "Angel" from season 1, and you're good
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 18, 2012, 11:26:35 PM
Alright, I might do that, though I'm kind of OCD about these things and feel the need to watch every episode in order (even if I have to get through quite a few that aren't particularly good), since I always get a nagging feeling whenever I skip even a single episode (let alone most of a season, at that). Either way, I've been needing a new main series to watch on a continuous basis ever since I finished Monk a few months ago, so I'll be sticking with this show either way.

Also, I was wondering if the spin-off series "Angel" is any good. I've heard mixed opinions about it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 18, 2012, 11:33:47 PM
Angel's better than Buffy. :srs:

Also, if you need a new show to watch on a continuous basis, there's always those two I keep mentioning.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 18, 2012, 11:37:17 PM
Well, as for The Wire, I'll definitely watch it if it ever streams of Netflix. Right now I just don't have the money to spend on the DVD sets.

As for Dr. Who, I'll probably get to it after I finish Buffy (and probably Angel as well).
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 18, 2012, 11:53:04 PM
I don't agree with Angel being better than Buffy, but it really is worth watching.

Preferably simultaneously, when you hit season 4 of Buffy.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 19, 2012, 12:27:29 AM
Wait, so what order should I watch it in? Should I put Buffy on hiatus after season 3, watch all of Angel, and then go back to Buffy, or should I alternate between each show, one season at a time, when I get to that point?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 19, 2012, 12:33:35 AM
Quote from: Ensatsu-ken on October 19, 2012, 12:27:29 AM
Wait, so what order should I watch it in? Should I put Buffy on hiatus after season 3, watch all of Angel, and then go back to Buffy, or should I alternate between each show, one season at a time, when I get to that point?
Latter.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 19, 2012, 12:40:42 AM
I meant one episode at a time, from a Buffy to an Angel, but whatever flows your boat.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 19, 2012, 09:09:34 AM
Alright, I suppose that makes sense since, if I'm not mistaken, both shows aired their seasons simultaneously during Angel's run.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 19, 2012, 10:02:11 AM
Yeah. Only in season 5 of Angel does it run independently.

Also, when you get to Doctor Who, maybe you could start all the way back from Hartnell? I'm always interested in hearing someone talking about over 30 seasons of a television show.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Kiddington on October 21, 2012, 01:25:28 AM
So... The League is back, and I didn't even realize.

Can't believe I didn't notice until now that Andre does, in fact, look like an uncircumcised penis.  :>
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 21, 2012, 01:28:59 AM
haha, yeah, poor Dre.

The ending made me squirm though. Poor baby. :whuh:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Kiddington on October 21, 2012, 01:30:57 AM
As if it wasn't already bad enough that his name is Chalupa.  :P
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 21, 2012, 01:34:07 AM
Yep. The episode kinda went overboard with the dick jokes, even more than usual, but I'd be lying if I didn't crack up during most of it. I mean, Andre's photoshoot scene is classic.

Oh, and I found the first episode of SNL that I'm gonna watch this season- Louis C.K. in two weeks. I don't care for fun. at all, but I'll give the rest of the episode a shot for Louie, especially if he helps in writing it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 21, 2012, 05:44:37 PM
I have started I, Claudius. It is very slow, but very good.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Lord Dalek on October 21, 2012, 09:19:11 PM
Last night we watched Wild Palms. Ask Insommy if anybody survived.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 21, 2012, 09:37:35 PM
Juu kind of had breathing problems after that. Ryan had arm spasms.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 22, 2012, 09:03:23 PM
So, I just finished season 1 of Buffy. My thoughts so far:

-The pilot 2-parter was entertaining but a bit too wrapped up in 90's cliches and cheesy writing for my liking
- All of the other episodes of this season besides Angel and the season finale were clearly filler and while they were enjoyable enough to an extent they were passable at best and overall just pretty forgettable
- The season finale was probably the strongest point of the season for me as it featured some significant character growth (even for the supporting cast), and while its not necessarily anything truly great, it did manage to give me a good hook to continue watching this show into the 2nd season where it supposedly gets a dramatic increase in quality

Overall, its a decent show so far, and it has the potential to be a great one (which it completely fulfills according to most people who have watched it). I must admit, though, I am still trying to get over the 90's cheese that is ever so present in this show, so far.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 22, 2012, 09:40:01 PM
Buffy is definitely a product of it's time. It gets a little less obnoxious when the characters graduate and have more issues to deal with (moving into the aughts helps there too). But yeah, the first of seasons do kind of fit in with the rest of The WB's programming at the time.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 22, 2012, 09:53:31 PM
Well, I was already going in with the expectation that the beginning of the show wouldn't necessarily be anything spectacular, as I heard that the show gets better over time. There are plenty of great shows that had pretty mediocre beginnings which still became great (as you know one of my favorite animated shows of all time, YYH, started out with a pretty average first season as well, minus the first 5 episodes which I think were great).

As for Buffy, I'm a complete sucker for shows that combine action with supernatural forces and the occult, so Buffy seems to be like a natural fit for my tastes, assuming that it does get better like people say as the show goes on.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 22, 2012, 09:59:46 PM
Yeah, seasons 2 and 3 are what I consider truly spectacular television. You'll definitely enjoy them.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 22, 2012, 10:46:19 PM
Those are really the best, but I also very much enjoy 5 and 6.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 22, 2012, 10:52:28 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on October 22, 2012, 10:46:19 PM
Those are really the best, but I also very much enjoy 5 and 6.
(http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m5j1mfli3t1qc6xeao1_500.png)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 22, 2012, 11:26:32 PM
Yes. And?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 22, 2012, 11:30:09 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on October 22, 2012, 11:26:32 PM
Yes. And?
You know why I'm questioning. Explain your enjoyment towards that season, sir.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 22, 2012, 11:55:42 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on October 22, 2012, 11:30:09 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on October 22, 2012, 11:26:32 PM
Yes. And?
You know why I'm questioning. Explain your enjoyment towards that season, sir.
It's hard to knock a season with such an episode as "Once More With Feeling" on it. The episode is indicative of the whole atmosphere of the season, in fact- things change. We have a mentally and morally confused Buffy try to regain steps after
Spoiler
being risen from the dead
[close]
, Giles letting go of his last strings towards Buffy, the final blows between hers and Spike's relationship coming up, and Willow's increasing darkness rising. All of this eventually helps to make for probably the most changes to happen to the main cast, mostly for worse.

There's a lot of weird decisions that went on in season 6, but I still do like a solid amount of it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 23, 2012, 12:43:25 PM
Man, they did such a good job of building up Spike to be the ultimate bad-ass among vampires that I was a bit disappointed when he actually fought with Buffy and she was able to hold her own against him for the most part. I mean, he did pretty much have her beat at one point until her mother saved her, but he actually had exert effort to get her to that point. Maybe I've been spoiled by too much anime logic, but I was expecting a total one-sided beat down forcing Buffy to realize that she's no match for the guy, but I guess its saying a lot that he is pretty much the only vampire thus far who has fought Buffy on equal footing (The Master doesn't really count as all he did was catch her from behind). At any rate, Spike is definitely the most interesting villain that has appeared in the series thus far. I also give him tons of bonus points for literally frying that little brat (The Anointed One) to nothing in sunlight. He was shaping up to be a completely boring and nonthreatening villain, anyways.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 23, 2012, 01:06:07 PM
That's one of the greatest early twists of all time. With the Anointed One, you were expecting another dry and sedated Big Bad like The Master for the season. Spike and Dru just show up and take over the operation like it's no big deal, and have the show make a turn for the better.

That's not the only major surprise in this season. You're only just getting into it all now.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 23, 2012, 03:17:28 PM
Oh! Oh!

EK, while you still have Netflix, there is one show that you absolutely MUST watch. If you don't, you'll be living life in the DANGA ZONE.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 23, 2012, 03:45:31 PM
I completely forgot that Archer is on Netflix. I don't know if I'll still have Netflix by next month (it depends on whether my mom decides to cancel it or not), but if I do then I'll get to that series after I finish Buffy/Angel. And if I somehow still miraculously have Netflix after I catch up with Archer, then I'll finally get around to seeing Dr. Who. :sly:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 23, 2012, 03:49:20 PM
Well that sounds like a big investment, bro. If you just stick to the '05 Doctor Who series, you'll have over 300 episodes across the board to watch all in the span of a month or so (although the last season of Archer and the first few episodes of the most recent DW series that have aired aren't on yet, so you'll have to settle for finding places to watch them elsewhere).

Are you up for it?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 23, 2012, 03:52:50 PM
Hence why I said "IF" I still have Netflix for that long. I don't really know when my mom plans to cancel it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 23, 2012, 04:03:56 PM
Quote from: Ensatsu-ken on October 23, 2012, 03:45:31 PM
I completely forgot that Archer is on Netflix. I don't know if I'll still have Netflix by next month (it depends on whether my mom decides to cancel it or not), but if I do then I'll get to that series after I finish Buffy/Angel. And if I somehow still miraculously have Netflix after I catch up with Archer, then I'll finally get around to seeing Dr. Who. :sly:
:imnothappy:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 23, 2012, 04:27:36 PM
Archer only has 36 episodes (23 on Netflix), and Doctor Who '05 is up in the 80's. I don't see why it'd be a problem to start on the show with a lower episode count.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 26, 2012, 06:30:13 PM
I just watched the episode "Passion" and I just have to say....damn, I didn't expect a well-established character to be killed off like that by another well-established character (who was one of the good guys for most of the series up to this point). Of course murder is always a great way to get people all the more hooked. :D
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 26, 2012, 07:14:04 PM
To me, that's the episode where shit got real. While Joss started testing with the lives and probablities of the cast beginning with "Innocence", this is officially when you knew that no one is safe.

And it's also when Joss began his major kick for killing off main characters. And I'm sure you're familiar with that, haven seen Serenity and The Avengers. ;)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 26, 2012, 08:39:51 PM
Well, with Avengers, Agent Coulson was always a supporting character in the movies he had appeared in up until then, inlcuding in The Avengers so his death wasn't necessarily a major shocker. However, characters like Ms. Calendar and Wash, while still technically supporting characters, were certainly more integral parts of the supporting cast of their respective series (well, only for the first 2 seasons with Ms. Calendar), so seeing them go certainly has a lot more weight and impact to it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 26, 2012, 08:51:01 PM
True, Coulson was merely a supporting character and overall just a casualty of war, while Jenny, Wash and Book were more important characters to their franchises.

But try telling the fangirls that. :P
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 26, 2012, 10:15:00 PM
inb4 "Coulson was a Mary Sue".

Well, if Passion shook things up, you'll love the season finale.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 29, 2012, 01:58:36 PM
Looks like my mom finally remembered to cancel her Netflix subscription....so no more Buffy. :(

Anyways, I ended up getting half-way through season 3, so I definitely at least want to finish up that season. Maybe I can rent the rest of the season elsewhere when I get the chance.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 29, 2012, 02:04:42 PM
Yes, please do. On the other hand, a certain other series begs to be called. (http://www.dailymotion.com/user/matrixarchive/1)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 31, 2012, 01:51:02 AM
Well, I can say that I'm a fan of Red Dwarf.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 02, 2012, 09:52:51 PM
What does it say that 35-year-old Weekend Updates are funnier than the ones from today?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on November 02, 2012, 11:26:48 PM
Late 70s and late 80s to late 90s era SNL is the only stuff worth watching.

As for weekend update, the only claim to fame recent SNL has is apparently "Really?" which despite being horribly cliche is about all that has come from it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 02, 2012, 11:28:53 PM
Yes, Minister is still way too smart for me to handle.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 02, 2012, 11:39:01 PM
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on November 02, 2012, 11:26:48 PM
Late 70s and late 80s to late 90s era SNL is the only stuff worth watching.
Pretty much. I think the ideal cut-off is when Norm MacDonald left Weekend Update in favor of Fallon and Fey.

Anyway, I will be watching tomorrow night, for the sake of Louie.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 02, 2012, 11:52:40 PM
If I want news satire, I'll go for the people who can actually do satire and not one-note remarks.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 04, 2012, 12:21:11 AM
I'm about to watch some of the 1980 season of SNL.

Wish me luck.

Edit: Wow. I didn't laugh once. Never watching anything from this season again.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on November 04, 2012, 12:26:26 PM
Yeah, that's how SNL has always been to me. I either really dig it (Hench the early years and late 80s to late 90s eras being my favorites) or I can't stand it at all.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 04, 2012, 12:36:41 PM
Even at it's best, the show has always been wildly inconsistent. That's part of the gift and curse of SNL.

And of course, I picked a Murphy-less '80 episode, because I wanted to see if I could find any of Captain Beefheart's influence in the episode, even though Netflix cut out his performances.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on November 04, 2012, 12:45:24 PM
At least you get that on Netflix. All we get up here is 1994-2011.

Slim pickings.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 04, 2012, 12:47:21 PM
We have the whole series, but the first 5 and I think some of the most recent seasons aside, we just get syndication cuts. I don't know if the full version of the 1980-late 90's run episodes have been seen in years.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on November 04, 2012, 12:58:13 PM
It's a shame that we seem to be missing the musical performances but sometimes its a blessing to not have to hear terrible music so it can go either way.

That said, I am disappointed that we only have the last season with Sandler and Spade and the gang, yet nothing with Farley, Hartman, Lovitz, or Meyers.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 05, 2012, 01:36:07 PM
"I'll vote for Romney like a good solider, but I'll hate it. I'll hate it! I'LL HATE IT!"

SNL is really trying to get their point across.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Kiddington on November 05, 2012, 01:40:26 PM
That reminds me; I forgot to catch the Louis CK episode from the other night.

Was it any good?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 05, 2012, 01:50:42 PM
Quote from: Kiddington on November 05, 2012, 01:40:26 PM
That reminds me; I forgot to catch the Louis CK episode from the other night.

Was it any good?
I'm watching it right now, and that bit and a Fox News spoof aside, it's not bad. The obvious highlight so far is the Lincoln sketch where Louis does a regular episode of his show as Abe.

I get it, New York is pro-Obama, election day is tomorrow, and SNL has a history of having whichever candidate they're more favorable to winning, but come on. And I voted for Obama.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Kiddington on November 05, 2012, 02:00:22 PM
Speaking of that, did Romney even go on SNL this year? I know he's been pretty much anti-everything when it comes to media appearances where the potential exists for a not-so-favorable light to be cast on him (Letterman especially), so it only makes sense that they're going to tear at him every chance they get.

Really though, just seems like yet another reason not to like the guy. Even Palin played ball, and they probably treated her far worse than they ever did him.

Quote from: Avaitor on November 05, 2012, 01:50:42 PM
I get it, New York is pro-Obama, election day is tomorrow, and SNL has a history of having whichever candidate they're more favorable to winning, but come on. And I voted for Obama.

Asking anyone other than unfunny, right-wing lameasses like Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity to actually make fun of Obama apparently isn't going to fly. I've learned that long ago.

...and really, it's a shame, because there is material here. Why are people so afraid of him? He's not invincible.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 05, 2012, 02:06:03 PM
You haven't seen Key & Peele?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Kiddington on November 05, 2012, 02:27:45 PM
No, I haven't.

Should I?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 05, 2012, 02:37:27 PM
Quote from: Kiddington on November 05, 2012, 02:27:45 PM
No, I haven't.

Should I?
Eh, I liked them on MADtv, but I haven't actually seen the show. I've heard good things, but it seems like they totally rely on their Obama parody.

Anyway, Louie's episode was pretty okay. He's a lot better than I was expecting him to be- I thought his sense of awkwardness that plagues his life and performances would reach onto the sketches, but he pulled just about everything off. And of course, I had to skip over fun.'s stuff.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 05, 2012, 03:16:31 PM
Key & Peele isn't a good show.

Still have Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy in my DVD player. The first episode was all right, but it needs to get to the pace.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on November 06, 2012, 12:03:26 PM
Wow, The Wire is way too good. I kind of want to stop watching it because I know it's going to end up ruining all other TV shows for me. :lol:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 08, 2012, 03:24:11 PM
Insommy, clear your queue. You really need to watch Better off Ted, as soon as you can.

And considering how obnoxious you are when you try to force us to watch something, I won't stop until you do.

Also, you all should watch it, too.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 08, 2012, 05:43:14 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on November 08, 2012, 03:24:11 PM
And considering how obnoxious you are when you try to force us to watch something, I won't stop until you do.
Hey, being a Wirevangelist isn't obnoxious. That's like saying that praising the benefits of breathing air is obnoxious.

But yeah, I'll give it a shot in a couple weeks.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 08, 2012, 07:10:32 PM
It's not just The Wire, you seem to do it with every British show you watch.

But if it'll make you feel better, I have season 1 of The Wire on my Christmas list, but in case my cash supply finally comes in, I might update that on the chance that I can buy some sets even sooner.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 08, 2012, 07:12:09 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on November 08, 2012, 07:10:32 PM
It's not just The Wire, you seem to do it with every British show you watch.
Because they're good. :joy:

...except this show called Cuckoo. Cuckoo sucks.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on November 08, 2012, 10:59:16 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on November 08, 2012, 05:43:14 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on November 08, 2012, 03:24:11 PM
And considering how obnoxious you are when you try to force us to watch something, I won't stop until you do.
Hey, being a Wirevangelist isn't obnoxious. That's like saying that praising the benefits of breathing air is obnoxious.
It really is that good, honestly. I have never liked a TV show this much... ever.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 09, 2012, 08:32:13 PM
(http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_md8bvlad1H1qf9n62o2_500.jpg)

I don't know what I'm more excited for, college Lily (and presumably Marshall and Ted) returning, or Willow and Oz reuniting.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on November 09, 2012, 08:44:17 PM
I saw Better Off Ted when it came out... It was alright. I think you guys would probably dig it more than me, though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 09, 2012, 08:45:57 PM
BOT is the kind of show I wanted from Arrested Development, but only ended up being disappointed with. It's hard to not like the Viridian Dynamic commercials, at least.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on November 09, 2012, 08:48:40 PM
Oh yeah, those are the best parts of the show.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on November 11, 2012, 05:35:27 PM
I'm on season 7 of The Office and, just watched The Seminar episode and thought this was interesting: the joke about Gabe picking movies for Movie Night that make Erin unhappy... 4 out of 5 of them were on my Top 100 Greatest (Contemporary) Horror Movies list.

Something unusual about the show though... Gabe picked a dud (The Ring) and, so did Erin / Andy (Shrek 2). So, I'm not sure what the point of the joke was.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 21, 2012, 08:32:28 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWayvczWEsI&feature=g-all-u

This is a really cool idea. Can't wait!
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 04, 2012, 12:06:11 PM
Oh, so I finished Better Off Ted, and it's pretty much anything I could want in a single-camera sitcom. If only it lasted longer.

I started Mad Men yesterday, and it's okay so far. Breaking Bad had a slow start too, so I'm hoping for it to just get better.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on December 04, 2012, 12:36:27 PM
but what about the wire :shit:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 04, 2012, 12:46:36 PM
Quote from: Foggle on December 04, 2012, 12:36:27 PM
but what about the wire :shit:
Tell HBO to get the stick out of their butt and put their shows on Netflix.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Kiddington on December 06, 2012, 03:50:00 AM
Better Off Ted was a pretty good show from what little I remember about it. Shame it didn't last.

Of course, if you're not Modern Family and raking in truckloads of Emmys every season, you're basically dogmeat to ABC at this point.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on December 08, 2012, 03:04:25 PM
Better Off Ted has been in my Top 10 Netflix Recommended for months now. Don't know when I'll get the notion to check it out.

Netflix WI is still my only real TV source now. No commercials, it's great. Anyway, I tried the 1st ep of Bobby's World hoping for some nostalgia. 22 minutes and already an astronomical WTF: why did the cop pull the father over? It couldn't be speeding- the officer asks if the address on his license is current / actual. He would have had to be trailing them either because something (criminal) happened at their house or because the father or mother or both had been suspected of something for some time. Cops don't randomly pull over WHITE people (let alone families) just to check their driver's licenses.

Anyway, I finished season 1 of Jem and I'm hooked. The show is fucking INSANE! Sort of bad but, impossible to stop watching. Then, I started season 2 and... for the first 5 episodes, the show actually became great television. Unfortunately, episode 6 (the "Father's Day" themed one) started the show on a brand new dive back down to sort-of-badness. Most of season 1 envisioned the show as though Barbie had superpowers and was in a band, season 2, episode 6 and onward, has mostly been Scooby Doo. And Jem has really lightened up on the use of her super-computer god/goddess Synergy who channels hologram-inducing powers on command through Jem's earrings. Meanwhile, you're sitting there going: USE YOUR FUCKING EARRINGS, YOU IDIOT!!!
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on December 13, 2012, 04:49:19 AM
Okay, I'm getting Netflix after the world ends, so what are some good shows I've probably overlooked that are for free there? And yes, Avaitor. I'll watch Better Off Ted.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 13, 2012, 09:30:21 AM
You'll find tons of British stuff on there, for one thing. And have you seen Mad Men yet? Since I'm digging it's dry wit thus far.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on December 13, 2012, 11:06:44 AM
Saw the first episode a year ago, and I was impressed. It's been on the backburner though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 13, 2012, 11:32:07 AM
Yeah, I'm digging it so far. But the Kristen Schaal appearance in the pilot caught me by surprise.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on December 13, 2012, 11:44:51 AM
Put Jem season 3 on hold to watch a little Garfield & Friends, which was newly added sometime last week (I'm guessing).

Also, I started 30 Rock, which I've never seen before. A REALLY rocky start for that show. Except for episode 3, the first 7 or so episodes are really average-at-best if not flat-out mediocre television with flat, cliched writing and boring characters. But, around episode 8 the show found a real groove of damn fine TV. I stopped at "The Hair and the Head," which has a hilarious ending (the "debut" of Gold Case). I will definitely be watching more.

Of course, I finished The Office (U.S.) and for awhile, I decided to go back to the UK series and... I can't believe I'm going to say this but, it's beyond cringe-inducing. I literally could not watch the screen for about 40-55% of a given episode. I got out of my chair and walked around the room a lot, even started dusting my walls (during the Birthday Party episode). I'll never go back. Well... maybe I will. Because... Ricky Gervais is scorchingly hot. When I randomly Wiki'd him, probably to find out his age or something, it mentioned that he was a singer in the 80's. Then I Google'd him in the 80's and the pictures of the "thin" him are horrendous. The Neil character was sort of supposed to be the hunk of the show but even though he's more stereotypically handsome, he just can't compare to Gervais. Anyway, before I decided I was going to watch the entire US series, I had made up my mind that it was inferior to the UK series even though I obviously stuck with it for... some reason. I always thought it was going to get Great. And it did, in season 4. So, eventually, I believe every sorta U.S.'d redo of all the UK's characters turned out to be superior.

Well...

except one.

Are you ready for this? ... :

Gareth > Dwight

(Oh, fuck- I forgot about Keith. Kevin in the U.S. version was an entirely different character, only his body type was kept as a reminder that there was a "similar" character from the UK version. Keith is easily my favorite of the two, even if I love the half of the Niagara episode where Kevin gets Jim&Pam's credit card reported as stolen.)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 13, 2012, 11:48:06 AM
Season 2 is by far the best of 30 Rock.

It's also the shortest. Take that as you will.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Kiddington on December 14, 2012, 01:12:56 AM
I just can't get into 30 Rock. No matter how hard I try, it simply does nothing for me.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 14, 2012, 10:10:01 AM
It's not as good as Parks, but I still feel like 30 Rock is underrated on this board. The earlier seasons, at least.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on December 15, 2012, 03:14:43 AM
Just started Season 2, so I can't say what's changed or improved yet, but the show has definitely hit a stride of excellence for me to keep watching. Though I think the characters have been a little scattered. Most nostably Jenna literally vanishing for about 5 or so episodes. Took me awhile, but I finally "like" Tracy. Can't say the same for Liz, Jack, Kenneth, Jenna, Pete, the writing staff, etc. But, the important thing is how often it feels like the writing is aiming for childish humor. Which it was for quite awhile. It seems a lot of shows start this way and jump off from there, I hope this one won't be turning back that way again. Not perfect, though. Not yet. I thought the way they structured Liz and Floyd was probably weak and more focused on whatever humor they could milk out of the webcam chat static for something actually happening in their relationship; which they didn't need, since the whole Trip to Cleveland scene was great on its' own. Too often a show tries to keep a character single for cheap jokes or plot convenience and I don't really think it's funny. Or necessarily realistic. The show has a lot of what feels like non-commital issues, things it hasn't figured out how to handle yet. Like Jack dropping topical bombs. Liz does it too but with Jack, you almost don't know where it comes from. Implying that he had a relationship with Condoleeza Rice does not explain how much he means it when he nonchalantly calls Liz a "godless, glassy-eyed Clintonista." Those are fighting words, not "aww, but we're all still one great big family" affectionate ribbing.

But the show's getting better.

Also, been juggling a few more Jems - season 3 - and I have to say that the Jerrica character is turning into a mockery of whatever made her likable, intelligent, or stable in the best of the previous episodes / seasons. I'm somewhere in episodes 6-8 and in the episode where they perform at an old temple with the Stingers band trying to break up Jem and Rio, Jerrica is flipping her friggin' wig- big time. The episode will begin and she's shouting at Rio for only paying attention to Jem. Which he isn't. And all along, the show has been about (well, among other things) her guilt from hiding her secret identity as Jem from him. So, as her bandmates have explained to her numerous times... it's her own fucking fault for not telling him the truth. She had an option and decided to never tell him. I've been told that she doesn't either. The last episode of the last season will come up and she never tells him. Forget that she tells the President of the United States in one earlier episode and was careless enough to let Raya see her change before she was even accepted into the band. The show is at times a very focused, smart, and ambitiously no-nonsense view on some emotionally serious subjects (though usually it's just a matter of them not using insulting stylistic embellishments to make their points, they often do it with good dialogue and no pandering, ala, let's say- Saved by the Bell's "I'm So Exc-iiiiii-ted!" episode). Other times, it's a silly but very funny, heavy-handed soap opera with cartoonishly over-the-top supervillainry (examples including Techrat's absurdly ahead-of-their-time inventions) which is combated with Jem's actual superpowers. This has been shooting for the middle, which is just silly and lacks both guts and "outrageous" fun. Which the show usually is. Basically... I think it needs more Misfits. And certainly more Eric Raymond. (Remember, this is still the first time I'm rewatching it since the 80's.)

Oh yeah, and I rewatched a hefty amount of Nostalgia Chick episodes on YouTube. (To avoid the ads which play havoc on my very shitty personal computer. Hell, every time I watch Lupa or Hagan, I already have to Log Off, Restart, and sometimes even clear all cookies in an attempt to try and get this fucking thing to play Netflix more smoothly. As often as I can circumvent this hassle, I take it.)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Nel_Annette on December 16, 2012, 02:33:59 AM
Baldwin's character is the only thing I've ever liked about 30 Rock. I don't know what it is, the others in that show feel almost... cartoonish. I can't stand it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on December 16, 2012, 08:18:18 AM
Well, it is... kind of a silly comedy. I can't think of a mainstream television comedy in years where the characters didn't feel cartoony most of the time.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 16, 2012, 11:37:58 AM
Yeah, I do think one of the biggest problems with 30 Rock is how silly and just plain unsympathetic the characters can be sometimes. Or most of the time. Even in the most recent episode, when Jack's mom dies, he doesn't really seem to take it in any way other than as an attempt to one-up her with the best epitaph ever.

Parks still remains my favorite of the modern NBC shows since it can still be plenty silly, but there's also room for shades of depth and actual character development too.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on December 22, 2012, 04:45:33 PM
Lately, I've been watching the first season of Big Love and I have to say that this show is great so far and might well end up being one of my favorites, but I'll reserve final judgment until I've finished season one. I have to say though, that while the Hendrickson's and their various problems as they try to make their polygamy work, are interesting to watch, the character I'm most intrigued by is the show's main villain: Roman Grant. Harry Dean Stanton does an excellent job portraying him and he's already one of the most sinister villains I've seen in a TV-show.

I also finished season 3 of Dexter today. I must say that this season was not on the same level as the previous two. I thought Miguel was a good villain (much better than Lila, whom I frankly found annoying) and liked his friendship with Dexter, but I just didn't care about anything else: Not about the skinner, or the various romance subplots, or anything really. That said, I'll keep watching the show and I'm looking forward to see John Lithgow in season 4.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 22, 2012, 11:14:28 PM
So I'm getting season 1 of The Wire for sure for Christmas, and I was able to pick up a used copy of season 4 for cheap used for when I'm up there.

I'm about to get into this show, finally.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 24, 2012, 01:51:31 PM
Well, it took 10 episodes, but they finally name-dropped The Apartment. in Mad Men. A good use, too.

I'm almost 100% sure that this is the show's biggest influence.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 05, 2013, 10:47:09 PM
The West Wing is now on Netflix. I know what I'm watching after I'm done with The Wire and catch up with Mad Men.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on January 06, 2013, 12:11:54 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on January 05, 2013, 10:47:09 PM
The West Wing is now on Netflix.
Like, streaming? Fuck yes. Finally.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 06, 2013, 01:22:11 PM
Quote from: Foggle on January 06, 2013, 12:11:54 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on January 05, 2013, 10:47:09 PM
The West Wing is now on Netflix.
Like, streaming? Fuck yes. Finally.
Yep! Now all I need is for ER to stream, at least up to where Anthony Edwards left, and I have a set TV schedule for a good while.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Grave on January 10, 2013, 12:49:41 PM
I don't really watch much these days outside of what's on USA, HGTV, DIY, ESPN, ESPN2. Food Network and the Cooking channel. Right now I'm watching ESPN First Take. I like seeing Stephen A. Smith get after Skip.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on January 10, 2013, 07:28:58 PM
I mainly watch stuff like HGTV, ID, BIO, and occasionally the family channel (usually for reruns) and that's about it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Grave on January 11, 2013, 06:13:11 PM
I also forgot to mention that I watch Ghost Adventures too, which is currently on my tv right now. I find this stuff very funny, especially seeing the reactions.

Computer-wise, I'm watching a compilation of SSF4 matches. High-level play are very entertaining.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 17, 2013, 08:25:32 PM
I got into some cash by doing odd jobs for my elderly neighbors, enough to pick up season 2 of The Wire while it's on sale. I have one more disc of the first season to finish before I get there, though.

One thing's for sure about the show- it has a killer soundtrack. Love the combination of jazz, classic rock and good hip-hop!
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on January 20, 2013, 02:33:29 PM
Season 2 of The Wire has been just as good as the first so far! Albeit for different reasons.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 22, 2013, 06:21:11 PM
And that's how you do a TV show!

One down, four to go.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on January 26, 2013, 06:55:52 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on December 16, 2012, 11:37:58 AMYeah, I do think one of the biggest problems with 30 Rock is how silly and just plain unsympathetic the characters can be sometimes. Or most of the time. Even in the most recent episode, when Jack's mom dies, he doesn't really seem to take it in any way other than as an attempt to one-up her with the best epitaph ever.

Parks still remains my favorite of the modern NBC shows since it can still be plenty silly, but there's also room for shades of depth and actual character development too.
Just finished 30 Rock (season...6?) and went back to re-watch about 6 or so episodes from the first season. And am shocked to be able to say about the first season in retrospect: I don't remember Liz and Jack getting along this well. Sometimes, I put myself in a character's position (which explains my INTENSE hatred for Tobias on Arrested Development) and all I see is how much it cripples the comedy when a relationship dynamic relies too heavily on one ultra petty or selfishly antagonistic person abusing another. This was what bothered me about Jack, shockingly rather than Jenna. Anyway, show's over and my only problems with it now are that Liz is one of the show's worst characters (but I actually appreciate what the writers use her for, what she represents; best example of which being the high school reunion episode- the ending to which was hysterical) and that the humor with Jack's politics isn't authentic. Or, to be specific, trying to make humor out of his politics makes him look like a showbiz believer in what he stands for. 2 steps away from being a sell-out. Same problem with Kenneth. The jokes he makes about hating women are freaking ridiculous, he is never anything but nice, accomodating, collaborative, and seems to inherently treat them as equals without thinking twice.

Looking at the whole show: Tracy Morgan is the best thing about the first few seasons, Jane Krakowski is the best thing about the later few seasons, Scott Adsit is the most likable person and his Pete the character the show didn't do enough with (maybe tied with Grizz Chapman), Kevin Brown had the smartest dialogue, Maulik Pancholy was the person who fascinated me the most, and I'd say Baldwin gave the best performance but he also seemed to fall back the most. His performance had the most repetitive arcs. For example- every time he cried for the sake of a joke, it felt the same. I also thought the show could've done more with Katrina Bowden. I especially liked the idea of her and Liz swapping identities through their clothes.

Preliminary awards = Favorite Liz boyfriend: Floyd. Best Liz boyfriend: Criss. Worst Liz boyfriend: Matt Damon. Worst guest stars: Salma Hayek & Matt Damon. Worst guest star accent: Julianne Moore. Best guest stars: Steve Buscemi & Oprah Winfrey. Cast member I least miss after they left: Lonny Ross. Cast member I'm most interested to see more in the next/latest season (the one that started a month or so ago): Sherri Shepherd. Hottest guy: Peter Hermann ("The Head and the Hair"). Sexiest woman: Elizabeth Banks. Best song: "Make a Pizza." Preliminary (not thinking very hard) pick for worst episode: either the one where Liz gets stuck on a plane with angry passengers or the one about leap day. Preliminary pick for best episode: the one where Liz won't sign Jack's divorce papers. Also... what the HELL happened to Denise Richards? Was her face crushed in a horrendous accident? She has. No. NOSE! Is she a Jackson or something?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on January 27, 2013, 04:00:17 AM
Quote from: Foggle on January 20, 2013, 02:33:29 PM
Season 2 of The Wire has been just as good as the first so far! Albeit for different reasons.

From what I've read, season 2 tends to be the most polarizing season of the show. Personally, I'm firmly in the "like it immensely" camp. Frank Sobotka is one of my favorite characters and I always thought The Greek was a very under-appreciated villain.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 27, 2013, 01:01:49 PM
Quote from: No-Personality on January 26, 2013, 06:55:52 PM
The jokes he makes about hating women are freaking ridiculous, he is never anything but nice, accomodating, collaborative, and seems to inherently treat them as equals without thinking twice.
Kenneth steps down from Tracy and Jenna sometimes, this last season in particular. In fact, one of the big twists in the recent episodes involves Kenneth reluctance to submit to one of their demands.

Quote from: No-Personality on January 26, 2013, 06:55:52 PMI also thought the show could've done more with Katrina Bowden. I especially liked the idea of her and Liz swapping identities through their clothes.
I loved her scene in this week's episode- "I actually quit 2 years ago". That explains the serious lack of Cerie lately.

Quote from: No-Personality on January 26, 2013, 06:55:52 PMBest guest stars: Steve Buscemi & Oprah Winfrey.
Add David Schwimmer in and I'll agree.

Well, as for what I'm watching, I just finished season 4 of M*A*S*H, and I must say, that was the best season yet! I really liked Henry Blake, but Potter was a very strong replacement. I appreciate how he's as fun as Blake can be, but more competent and considerably more stern when needed to be. Considering the bullshit that Hawkeye and Frank Burns can pull out at any given instant, it's a plus to be straight-faced at any given moment. Potter also works as a father figure to the rest of the crew, opposed to just Radar like Blake was.

BJ was another good addition to the show. I wasn't as crazy for Trapper John however (I can see why Wayne Rogers left- he's pretty one-note, and ends up being a side character to Hawkeye instead of his equal), but I did like him. Like Potter to Blake, BJ isn't too different from Trapper, but is where it counts. He's definitely more serious and earnest than Trapper, and can even work as a strong foil to Hawkeye.

One of my favorite scenes between the two is in the episode where Hawkeye's old fling comes back, and Hawk asks BJ about his loyalty to his wife.

"Ever checked in somewhere without a toothbrush?"
"Never."
"Never been tempted?"
"Tempted's another subject."
"Ah, you have been tempted."
"Never. But it's another subject."

Pretty much says it all between the two.

And what a way to end the season with "The Interview"! I really appreciate it when the show messes with its conventional style to tell its story, and the show did a great job here. I only wonder why Houlihan wasn't in this one, but I guess Loretta Swit doesn't improvise well.

As for The Wire, I did just watch the first 2 episodes of season 2, and I'm already loving it more than season 1.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on January 27, 2013, 02:19:02 PM
Quote from: Pharass on January 27, 2013, 04:00:17 AM
Quote from: Foggle on January 20, 2013, 02:33:29 PM
Season 2 of The Wire has been just as good as the first so far! Albeit for different reasons.

From what I've read, season 2 tends to be the most polarizing season of the show. Personally, I'm firmly in the "like it immensely" camp. Frank Sobotka is one of my favorite characters and I always thought The Greek was a very under-appreciated villain.
Yes, I love Frank! Season 2 has been excellent so far, dunno why it's so polarizing.

I just finished episode 7 and goddamn those last two installments tore my heart up.
Spoiler
D'Angelo was my favorite character in the first season. Fuck you Stringer. >:(
[close]
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on January 27, 2013, 07:57:29 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on January 27, 2013, 01:01:49 PM
Quote from: No-Personality on January 26, 2013, 06:55:52 PMBest guest stars: Steve Buscemi & Oprah Winfrey.
Add David Schwimmer in and I'll agree.
Have to wait until Netflix gets the new season in to watch it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 27, 2013, 08:01:07 PM
Quote from: No-Personality on January 27, 2013, 07:57:29 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on January 27, 2013, 01:01:49 PM
Quote from: No-Personality on January 26, 2013, 06:55:52 PMBest guest stars: Steve Buscemi & Oprah Winfrey.
Add David Schwimmer in and I'll agree.
Have to wait until Netflix gets the new season in to watch it.
You don't (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MUgXW1cnSdo) remember Greenzo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CSNXlvl93co)?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on January 28, 2013, 02:21:45 PM
Holy shit...... I did forget about him.

And, yes, his performance was pretty good (in spite of the fact that I didn't find the character very funny). I think I'll stick with Steve & Oprah though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 29, 2013, 05:44:34 PM
"My father touched me like that once. To this day, he still has to wear orthopedic shirts."

Yep, season 5 still has it. ;)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Grave on January 30, 2013, 02:45:08 AM
This (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a9HO3UAVc10), this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDoqVm1R-k8) and this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XSs7NCWp6kA)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 31, 2013, 08:35:00 PM
And that was 30 Rock.

The ending was... kinda meh, but that's what I've felt about the show, more or less, since season 5. It sucks to see it go, though.

Next up on the farewell list is Carell-less Office.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on January 31, 2013, 10:55:00 PM
They doing a 9th season?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 01, 2013, 12:32:57 AM
Quote from: No-Personality on January 31, 2013, 10:55:00 PM
They doing a 9th season?
Ninth and last. I think it's running until April.

I don't watch The Office, but last week's twist really caught my interest- at the end of the episode when Pam was crying, one of the cameramen came into the scene. You can't get more prophetic towards the show's end than that.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on February 01, 2013, 09:20:41 AM
Well, the 8th season had the distinction of turning to near-complete shit from episodes 2 to 6 and then around 8 to 11, maybe 12 or 13. I give a slight repreive to the Halloween-themed episode because Gabe's short film was one of the funniest things I've ever seen on that show. But, it took them a LONG time to find a way to make the Andy-run episodes work.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 02, 2013, 07:30:57 PM
Speaking of finales, I just watched Victorious's final episode.

Eh.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 03, 2013, 12:08:33 AM
Oh, and I forgot to mention, but I finally understand this reference (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ra-Knsh7egs).
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on February 03, 2013, 10:55:19 AM
Well, my brain's sure scratching on that one. But they teach you that sometimes the most obvious answer is right, so my eyes tell me I recognize the long black coat and the 1994 from The Basketball Diaries (even though I never saw that movie).

't's all I got.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 03, 2013, 10:56:41 AM
Quote from: No-Personality on February 03, 2013, 10:55:19 AM
Well, my brain's sure scratching on that one. But they teach you that sometimes the most obvious answer is right, so my eyes tell me I recognize the long black coat and the 1994 from The Basketball Diaries (even though I never saw that movie).

't's all I got.
It's from The Wire.

Replace Lily with Omar, and there you go. ;)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Jay L. Corbell on February 04, 2013, 07:21:38 PM
American Horror Story.
At first I was all like "dafuq" but now I'm intrigued.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on February 07, 2013, 09:15:12 PM
Finished season 2 of The Wire. Last four episodes were even better than the first season IMO.

Spoiler
oh god, Frank, whyyy :cry:
[close]
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on February 07, 2013, 09:20:36 PM
Quote from: Foggle on February 07, 2013, 09:15:12 PM
Finished season 2 of The Wire. Last four episodes were even better than the first season IMO.

Spoiler
oh god, Frank, whyyy :cry:
[close]
Spoiler
Game's the game.
[close]
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 07, 2013, 11:34:48 PM
Oh yeah, did anyone here watch Community tonight?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on February 08, 2013, 11:56:35 AM
A ton of things just got added to my Netflix including MWC, Disney films, TSSM, Avengers season 2, and a bunch of other random things.

Currently watching the Bugs Bunny/Road Runner Movie.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 08, 2013, 01:52:08 PM
Do you only have season 1 of SSM? We never got 2 here.

As for Community, I want to bring it up again because the premiere was... not very good. It's off to a pretty bad start, actually. I knew the show was going to feel different without Harmon, but it's like the new showrunners took the heart and mind out of the series right off the bat.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on February 08, 2013, 02:25:44 PM
Checking... 26 episodes.

At least now I can watch Meet The Robinsons.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on February 08, 2013, 03:49:53 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on February 08, 2013, 01:52:08 PM
Do you only have season 1 of SSM? We never got 2 here.
DVDs of season 2 came out... but they're singles. It's like we're really living in the 90's!
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 08, 2013, 04:06:44 PM
Quote from: Foggle on February 08, 2013, 03:49:53 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on February 08, 2013, 01:52:08 PM
Do you only have season 1 of SSM? We never got 2 here.
DVDs of season 2 came out... but they're singles. It's like we're really living in the 90's!
I'm considering buying the singles at this point. For $5 a pop, it'd end up costing as much to get them as it did when I bought season 1 when it came out, but I shouldn't have to settle with singles clogging up my space.

I just want it to at least be able to stream on Netflix, but nope, we still only have the first up on there.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on February 08, 2013, 07:05:10 PM
I watched the 2nd to last episode of Jem. And, boy was it horrible. Riot (the glamour big, frilly white haired rockstar guy) now gets a whole backstory explaining why he's such a jerk and is slowly redeeming himself. Wait... what happened to the freaking Misfits? There's only 1 episode left and Stormer still hasn't left the band. At this rate, the last episode will be all about Rapture and why she's such a bitch (we already got one where Minx turned good, now Riot). And I guess Rio's out of the picture for good. And that Kimber will never get married. The show jumped the shark and I didn't even notice. It's worse than jumping the shark- it didn't even know it was ending and just assumed it could answer some key questions later. Or, even worse than that, assumed we gave a damn about Riot and his band. Jem looks like such a tart going as far as she's gone defending him. The way things are going now, Rio and Stormer could run away together and no one would notice.

Ugh. I can already smell a non-ending for the show.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 13, 2013, 05:27:06 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on February 03, 2013, 12:08:33 AM
Oh, and I forgot to mention, but I finally understand this reference (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ra-Knsh7egs).
Jesus, I suck at posting links.

But yeah, both The Wire and Mad Men get better with each passing episode. I picked the latter back up, and season 2 is so much better than the first.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 23, 2013, 03:02:25 PM
After just finishing season 2 of the Wire (holy shit!), I went out to look for a copy of three, either new or used. No luck, but I did find season 1 of I Love Lucy for $5.

Couldn't pass that up.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 14, 2013, 11:45:53 PM
Speaking of Mad Men, season 6 starts early in April, which means I have about 2 weeks to catch up on 2 1/4 seasons.

Let's see if I can do this.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on March 16, 2013, 02:37:30 AM
Trying to find some documentaries on the history of SF and Fantasy as mediums. Currently beginning one called Pulp Fiction: The Golden Age with interviews from Ray Bradbury.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on March 16, 2013, 10:53:24 AM
Finished Jem, fully expecting there wouldn't be any attempt to wrap up the show's loose ends. Well... Rio + Jem or Jem + ...any man is left in the garbage, which will make some people happy. But I don't see anything wrong with a show like this, which has given into cliche and sappiness, to be a little trashy and romantic. I mean, why did they bother with so many melodramatic storylines about their relationship in the first place? However, in the cheapest way possible, now Jem and The Misfits call a truce and are getting along now. In the last 3 minutes, they just show up at the Birthday party of one of the girls in the halfway house and are like, "let's have a party!" Then... they all sing another crappy song about togetherness or something. It was lousy, yet- somewhat in keeping with the more consistent essence of the show.

Final Thoughts: Season 3 crapped out. The show was absurd and maybe in some ways tiring in the very first season. But it became incredibly endearing and engaging as the season went on and ... then, it got really good in season 2. So, the show deserved better. To be more carefully executed. There were some damn fine episodes. Shame.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 16, 2013, 03:26:18 PM
After finishing season 3 of Mad Men, I can see why some prefer it to Breaking Bad.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on March 17, 2013, 09:08:49 PM
Been going through the SpongeBob SquarePants episodes on Netflix that I don't have on DVD. Which, is anything after the 3rd season. Except the 2nd season but I watched almost all those episodes on Nickelodeon when I still actually watched television. Just started season 4 and after 3 or 4 episodes, with each one usually being split into 2 shorts, I'm happy that I've only run into one I've seen before (about Mr. Crabs losing his shell). Unfortunately, it's much more hit-and-miss than the show used to be. If I were to make a bold statement, it was literally about perfect until the last 6 or so episodes of season 3. Then it got... weird. And, not the good kind (like "Nature Pants" or "Dying for Pie"). Like... SpongeBob having an identity crisis after he inflates his pants to fly with and becomes an outcast. Or befriends a maddog murderer and then climbs into his eye cavities with spiked shoes on, then walks around inside them. Thankfully, so far the season's been good. Just not up to the previous brilliance of the first 3 seasons.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 25, 2013, 12:07:02 PM
You know you're obsessed with Alison Brie when you watch an episode of Hannah Montana just for her.

But then, I'm still watching Community, so I know that I'm obsessed.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Nel_Annette on March 26, 2013, 07:16:43 PM
Speaking of Annie's Boobs... (so... beautiful...  :swoon: )

My buddy and I finished our Community marathon yesterday. Took us 3 months, but we did it. I really liked the third season, though I felt the first two were better. I enjoyed the whole Chang takeover, and the season finale was great. It would have been perfect as a series closer. The only thing that kind of bothered me was how they ended the arc with John Goodman's character. From the start of the season he's made out to be the main villain of the whole thing, and then just when it seems he's beaten Troy, he's
Spoiler
killed and needs to be avenged? The hell?
[close]
Otherwise, fantastic stuff.

I'd say the first season's paintball episode is my favorite out of the series though. I'll still probably watch season 4 when it comes to dvd, despite bad word of mouth.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 26, 2013, 07:44:41 PM
Season 3 had such an off start, but it made up for that by the end.

Season 4... eh. I'll watch Alison in anything, but I kind of doubt that the show will go back to its glory days.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on March 27, 2013, 01:14:01 PM
JMS is back in the TV business. (http://www.bleedingcool.com/2013/03/27/wachowskis-team-with-j-michael-straczynski-for-netflix-series-sense8/) Let's see if he still knows how to write a story, or if that brain that made the third and fourth seasons of Babyon 5 rotted down ages ago.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 27, 2013, 01:21:24 PM
Wachowskis? Eh.

Well, now Netflix has season 5 of Mad Men. I have to say, I wasn't a huge fan of Megan at first- I wanted Don to marry Faye, like I'd assume a lot of fans did. But that performance of her in the premiere totally won me over. Damn French girls.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 29, 2013, 01:46:28 AM
After catching up on Mad Men, I can't decide on what was a more satisfying scene, seeing Lane Pryce smack Pete to the ground, or when Prez decked Valchek in The Wire.

But seriously, the season finale was a little underwhelming, considering how intense the past few episodes were. It's definitely going to lead into a good season, but it wasn't what I was hoping for. Still a great ride though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 18, 2013, 03:07:13 PM
It didn't even take 35 minute for me to be sold on Game of Thrones.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 22, 2013, 06:30:45 PM
I'm done with season 1 of Game of Thrones, and all is well.

There wee some things that I didn't see with eye-to-eye in the adaptation, and I forgot how annoying Sansa was at this point, but it's a great show. I'll start season 2 up later.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 06, 2013, 09:55:53 PM
While I was out of town this week, I got to see GOT on TV for the first time, since my sister has HBO. Turns out I was caught up with the show as well, so I got to see the new episode fully aware of what's going on. I do like how the show is expanding upon Jon and Ygritte's relationship in particular. On screen, it feels much more energetic than I was expecting.

Now that I'm caught up, I can get to Party Down. I also found season 3 of The Wire for cheap, so I can finally watch more of the show as well!
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 02, 2013, 06:16:16 PM
I was going to post here about my current thoughts on season 4 of the Wire, but I just saw that I am literally the only person to post in this thread in a while.

What's up with that?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on June 02, 2013, 06:18:06 PM
Season 4 of The Wire has been excellent so far!
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 02, 2013, 06:27:35 PM
Yeah, I think it's already shaping up to be my favorite. Even though season 3 was not a step down in any conceivable way, I actually prefer 2 a little, since I really liked the Sobotkas. But everything in 4 has been at its best thus far.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 07, 2013, 03:19:47 PM
The big show right now is Hannibal. I have to admit that I was a little bit skeptical to give it a chance, considering the sequels, but the reception is strong all over the place. I'm going to have to add it to my list.

Let's just hope that the fangirls don't ruin this one for me.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on June 07, 2013, 04:05:59 PM
Just finished season 4 of The Wire.

Yeah, if there was ever any doubt in my mind about this being the greatest television show ever made, it's gone now. Those last two episodes were almost too much. I fucking cried - multiple times. I never do that.

Seriously, if you haven't watched this series yet, you must. Just forget about any other TV until you do. Good lord.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on June 07, 2013, 06:14:16 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on June 07, 2013, 03:19:47 PM
The big show right now is Hannibal. I have to admit that I was a little bit skeptical to give it a chance, considering the sequels, but the reception is strong all over the place. I'm going to have to add it to my list.

Let's just hope that the fangirls don't ruin this one for me.
Yes, because fangirls can physically deteriorate the quality of a show with their vaginal fluids.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 07, 2013, 06:20:24 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on June 07, 2013, 06:14:16 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on June 07, 2013, 03:19:47 PM
The big show right now is Hannibal. I have to admit that I was a little bit skeptical to give it a chance, considering the sequels, but the reception is strong all over the place. I'm going to have to add it to my list.

Let's just hope that the fangirls don't ruin this one for me.
Yes, because fangirls can physically deteriorate the quality of a show with their vaginal fluids.
It happened with Superwholock.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on June 07, 2013, 06:21:48 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on June 07, 2013, 06:20:24 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on June 07, 2013, 06:14:16 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on June 07, 2013, 03:19:47 PM
The big show right now is Hannibal. I have to admit that I was a little bit skeptical to give it a chance, considering the sequels, but the reception is strong all over the place. I'm going to have to add it to my list.

Let's just hope that the fangirls don't ruin this one for me.
Yes, because fangirls can physically deteriorate the quality of a show with their vaginal fluids.
It happened with Superwholock.
Just ignore the fangirls then. I mean, I can give you the former two, maybe, but Sherlock is so damn good that no amount of fanbase annoyance could deteriorate it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 07, 2013, 06:26:39 PM
Yeah, I'm trying to do that.

Strangely, I haven't been phased by GOT's following at all, even if the shitstorm from the Red Wedding made me laugh a little.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on June 07, 2013, 06:35:25 PM
On the contrary, Game of Thrones' quality has been physically stripped of any of the pristine quality that GRRM wanted merely because of the words of fangirls that I can easily ignore. No matter how good the acting of Jack Gleeson or Peter Dinklage is, the mere hint of conversation about them causes my anus cavity to shrivel. Hours of painstaking production from one of the most admirable crews on television cannot persevere from a single tumblr that probably isn't even that annoying except within the confines of my mind. No one else should be able to express their extreme opinions for a show other than me, and that is a basic fact.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 07, 2013, 06:37:48 PM
Really though, one of the amazing things that Game of Thrones shares with The Wire and Mad Men is that their large cast is so well-defined and acted, it's entirely possible to have 4 or 5 favorite characters, while talking to others and find out that their list is completely different.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on June 07, 2013, 06:40:45 PM
The Wire has like 100 characters and I love almost all of them.

(http://25.media.tumblr.com/c19b72de3a7b39fdf92379668f38409b/tumblr_mo0rdeYepD1r0q0i3o10_r1_1280.png)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on June 07, 2013, 06:41:50 PM
I wish I had his facial expressions right now.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on June 07, 2013, 07:31:45 PM
Decided to re-watch The Office again on Netflix: WI. Had a bad hiccup with my computer, but I literally got through about a season each day. Now I'm up to the Gettysburg episode of season 8. The only thing I want to say this time around is... I do not like Jim anymore. Especially in season 7, he's turned into... almost a jerk. I also want to say that the first time I watched season 8 was a disaster. For the first 10 or so episodes (except for the first episode, "The List" which is still the best of that season). But it's not nearly as bad the 2nd time around.

But, there is 1 problem. It doesn't make any sense. Episode 2, "The Incentive" is a good example. Andy tells the Sales' staff that Robert California tells them they have to sell more, etc. Everyone tells him that if they could boost their sales, they would have already. They told him it isn't possible. Without new leads, new clients to sell to, and new territories to find them in. Then, he says, "if you sell more, I have prizes." They say the prizes bite. Andy says he'll get a tattoo on his butt if they sell more and puts the "prize" on an extremely high number of points on high volume of sales and... they meet his quota in maybe a couple hours. But, how is that possible? They already told him they were basically out of new clients, etc. Where are they selling to make up this incredible new high volume?

And what about when Jim takes the Salesman job over Michael because Sabre has a policy of no caps on commissions and then when Jim is about to surpass his old cap, he keeps selling and discovers that Sabre has a cap on commissions. And the dialogue doesn't even mention the deal where Jim bothered to stay in Sales because the policy stated: no cap on commission. Something changed without an explanation of why.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on June 08, 2013, 02:02:20 AM
New Arrested Development makes me wonder why I still have cable.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 08, 2013, 02:08:48 PM
NP reminds me, I've been wanting to give The Office another chance. Of the "good" NBC single-camera comedies, it's the one I wasn't able to get into, but I think I'd like it more if I watch it all in order, with some time removed. I've gotta queue that up.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on June 08, 2013, 02:13:34 PM
Seasons 2 and 3 are the only good seasons though. Everything after becomes too wacky and focused on Jim and Pam instead of being a decent mockumentary.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 08, 2013, 02:21:13 PM
I hear that 4 and 5 are still strong, but I dunno, I'll at least consider it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on June 09, 2013, 10:49:30 AM
I personally think the strongest seasons of The Office are seasons 2,3, and 5, the latter of which is my favorite season in the show. 4 is okay, but there are too many frickin hour long episodes, that feel quite dragged out and boring at parts, so I like it less than the others but it's still pretty good. 6 and 7 are mixed bags but there are quite a number of really great episodes in them, but season 8 and for the most part 9 were terrible and I almost ended up dropping the series various times because they really did get pretty bad (there is some good in them, but the awful shit outweighted it considerably for me). I will say the series finale is one of the most satisfying and sentimental things ever and possible one of my favorite episodes from the show, so at least the series ended on a good note. If you haven't checked it out yet I'd say it's worth it, although I personally prefer Parks and Recreation to it most of the time.

Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on June 08, 2013, 02:13:34 PM
Seasons 2 and 3 are the only good seasons though. Everything after becomes too wacky and focused on Jim and Pam instead of being a decent mockumentary.

That's because it stops trying to be a outright mockumentary and  ends up focusing on the characters and their relationships more. Jim and Pam's storyline is honestly the heart of the show...but I do agree that at times it feels like it's being shoved down your throat, especially in season 6, and then it devolves terribly in 8 and 9 but ends up all right for the finale. Honestly, if you don't care for the Jim and Pam relationship at all, then it's pretty hard to enjoy the show, since so much of the story is focused on it, more than any other aspect in the show.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 09, 2013, 05:00:13 PM
Oh yeah, and in less than 24 hours, I watched the least 6 episodes of The Wire season 4. Hot damn, that was a great experience.

Sadly, I don't have enough to buy season 5 yet, so that'll have to wait for a little. I know that it isn't as good as the other four, but that won't stop me at all. I'm really excited to see Nick Sobotka's appearance this season, though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 13, 2013, 06:30:29 PM
Almost done with the first episode of Hannibal and yeah, I think I made a good call.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on June 13, 2013, 09:58:02 PM
I actually love the 40-minute episodes!! Remember that the season is at least 6-8 episodes shorter than the others too.

The hardest thing to deal with about the show for the first 5.5 seasons (midway through season 6) is Michael Scott. I am a normal person, so therefore I want to see someone beat the crap out of him most of the time. I should make a list of his Worst moments. As in, if this were a real situation, the moments where if you saw someone doing that in your presence, you would have no choice but to start screaming, "WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU???!!!?!?!?!" And for whatever reason, on this show, nobody ever does. Only maybe two people ever did.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on June 13, 2013, 10:07:18 PM
Michael Scott was the most important character in the show...

While he got really irritating at parts, he was essential to making the series actually work, because he was in all honestly the series' funniest character, and, most of the time, it's most sympathetic. There were times where he got incredibly annoying, stupid, and unlikeable, but the shows best seasons were in part because the writers used his character in highly effective ways that complemented the developing Jim/Pam relationship, Dwight's wackiness, and Ryan's...uh, presence.

If you don't like Michael Scott in any capacity, it's pretty hard to enjoy The Office. At least that's how I see it.  :P
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on June 13, 2013, 11:46:26 PM
I know good TV when I see it but Michael Scott is not likable. There is no question about it. He was so intensely focused on being the center of attention at all times that he goes way beyond being annoying. He is sick in the head. I admit I really get into watching tv, I react to what characters do as though I were there myself. And, if I had been in the same room as he was when he got pissy that he couldn't be Santa then went back into his office, dressed as Jesus, and came back out... I would be so angry, I don't know that I wouldn't get right in his face and start yelling at him. Tell me why would anyone sympathize with him and not Phyllis in that situation? Michael wanted to be Santa just to get attention, Phyllis wanted it for the longest time. He abused her and she sat there and took it. He didn't get his way and puts up the biggest shit-fit and almost ruined the entire night for Phyllis and Andy! And how about the episode where he tried to ruin Secret Santa just because he didn't like Phyllis's gift? And he started it by buying Ryan that $400 I-pod, causing everyone to try taking the tea pot (which was just for Pam) and the I-pod.

I enjoyed the show because it was smart. But people telling me Michael was supposed to be likable / sympathetic is downright crazy. It's a little sad that underneath his radical, peerless desperate acts to get attention is a giant lonely vulnerable child. And sometimes his selfishness benefits others and he somehow pulls out an adult gesture. But it is so incredibly rare.

You mentioned Dwight... I prefer not to talk about him. The show has some legitimately offensive moments related to his character. Especially the episode where he fights Pam on changes to the building. Which of course is in the 7th season (maybe the 8th) but almost always they show him as a mastermind who plays everyone down to the last detail. So no matter how intelligent they are and how hard they fight sometimes just to get him the fuck off their back, he wins in the end. And then he fucking smiles at the camera in that triumphant way like a rapist might when they're got everyone fooled into thinking the person they're stalking is imagining things. That makes me want to kick someone. Very hard.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Nel_Annette on June 14, 2013, 01:27:19 AM
Avaitor, I say watch seasons 2-5. Or 4. 2 and 3 are fantastic. 4 is alright. 5 made me quit the show. I think the only thing I liked after that was the cold open where someone (Dwight?) warns of an urgent situation and everyone flips their shit until he reveals it was a drill, and then someone falls out of the ceiling.

Only episodes I've seen since have made me glad I jumped ship when I did, and when I caught a season 8 episode I was annoyed by the sheer fact that I didn't even know who half the cast was anymore. Bunch of new peeps I've never seen. 

:whuh:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 14, 2013, 07:20:15 PM
I'll probably add The Office to my list, but it won't be too high up on my list for now. Among a potential second chance for Arrested Development, I'm also planning to go through Twin Peaks, Battlestar Galactica, a full run of the Dick Van Dyke Show (cause why not?), and a couple of British shows that I forgot.

As well as The West Wing, which I'll probably start up in a few days.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Grave on June 16, 2013, 08:17:11 PM
Just finished watching Dark Knight Rises. It's good, but I'd say it's probably the weakest of the Batman films by Nolan. I guess it's because of characters like this John Blake character and this other cop that had a chin like Dent (sorta) had me wondering who're these characters suppose to be considering they had fair amount of screen time. Catwoman wasn't really winning many points with me either, although she was decent. Then again I just find Dark Knight to be that good and hard to top in terms of hero movies.

I've also been trying to watch WWE. My goodness this stuff is awful to watch now.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 23, 2013, 03:42:28 PM
NP, I know you've recently watched all of Jem. I have to say, this made me chuckle.

(http://25.media.tumblr.com/7f64d37e3b99cb6556f0ed8e3c25bdc5/tumblr_modwexXliq1s95g3yo1_500.jpg)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on June 25, 2013, 01:25:47 PM
So many funny things about that gag.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Lord Il on June 26, 2013, 04:11:26 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on June 23, 2013, 03:42:28 PM
NP, I know you've recently watched all of Jem. I have to say, this made me chuckle.

(http://25.media.tumblr.com/7f64d37e3b99cb6556f0ed8e3c25bdc5/tumblr_modwexXliq1s95g3yo1_500.jpg)
Is that a clever edit someone made, or was that actually done like that in the episode?
Either way it's damn amusing. =)

I remember watching Jem after school. That wasn't exactly yesterday by any means.  :P
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 26, 2013, 11:40:39 PM
Just finished season 1 of ER, and it's easily one of the best first seasons I've seen. Everything just fell into place so well so fast.

I'm just annoyed that my copy of season 1 has a faulty bonus disc side. Ah well, at least I also found season 2 for pretty cheap.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on July 02, 2013, 03:10:40 PM
My Netflix got backed up recently, so I've been clearing out movies for the past week but I did take a break to watch the new Phelous video for Smiley. And immediately had to watch his video on Chain Letter directly afterward. Then Jack Frost 2 (I forgot the wife dies in that movie... huh).

Also, Lupa uploaded her latest Manic Episode on Charmed... 7 parts. 15 minutes a piece for 6 + 7 minutes for the last one. Her Witchcraft reviews are taking awhile but in the meantime, I've really been enjoying watching her insult the hell out of Alyssa Milano and Holly Marie Combs' characters. I forgot how this latest video began, a clip from some kind of apocalypse movie where the villain was cut out and replaced with Alyssa. That's how far it's come. The women on the show have become so evil, they're being compared to... (Okay, I just literally went back to the video to see what it was: it was Freddy Krueger from the 1989 tv series spin-off, Freddy's Nightmares.) After a few hours of talking about the show, I admit she hasn't sold a single person on ever subjecting themselves to it but it's still a lot of fun when she gets really mad and makes montages of the unbelievable selfishness of the characters.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 17, 2013, 10:29:24 PM
Since I got Netflix back, I resumed watching Buffy from where I left off, and just finished season 3 today.

It was pretty good.

That is all.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 17, 2013, 10:48:00 PM
Since you finished season 3, are you going to go to season 4 or start Angel up first? Or will you watch both at the same time, and trade episodes off?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 18, 2013, 12:00:18 AM
I'm going to alternate between episodes of each series. So, I'm going to start with Buffy season 4 episode 1 tomorrow, and then watch Angel season 1 episode 1 after that, and then go to the next Buffy episode followed by the next Angel episode and so forth. If any seasons don't have the same number of episodes, then I'll just finish the rest of whatever season is longer and then continue alternating between the episodes of each series for the next season.

I'm only doing this because I've heard that these series apparently take place side-by-side chronologically, and I want to see how the events of this Universe progress as a whole rather than watching them as individual shows.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on July 18, 2013, 03:01:51 PM
I guess I'm still waiting for Parks & Recreation: Season 5 to ever come to Netflix...or something.

In the meantime, since Nostalgia Chick appears to be suffering from a brain ailment (she posted this on Facebook, she's actually legitimately sick in a way that time won't fix by itself) that's taken her out of videomaking since April, I've been waiting for Lupa to finish Witchcraft so she'll get started on Nightmare on Elm Street. Pretty much everyone I follow has been really clogged lately. I assumed it's... cons. Except PushingUpRoses. She's been getting at least 1 a week up. And Lindsay did get a new 50 Shades of Green up earlier in the week.

So, instead of starting anything else up (since there are a good 5 shows on Netflix I want to finally start: Breaking Bad, Mad Men, It's Always Sunny, Buffy, and... I'm considering HIMYM), I've just been cruising old TGWTG vids.

But I'm planning on doing something about music videos. Just don't know where to post it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 18, 2013, 04:40:37 PM
Holy crap! They really do match up! In the first episode of season 4 of Buffy, she receives a phone call with no response. And the first episode of Angel, he makes a phone call and Buffy answers, and they he doesn't respond, and then hangs up. I like those little touches.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 18, 2013, 08:21:32 PM
Quote from: No-Personality on July 18, 2013, 03:01:51 PM
So, instead of starting anything else up (since there are a good 5 shows on Netflix I want to finally start: Breaking Bad, Mad Men, It's Always Sunny, Buffy, and... I'm considering HIMYM), I've just been cruising old TGWTG vids.
You won't be wasting your time with any of these shows. If you don't mind my asking, where did you stop with Buffy when you originally tried it?

Right now, I have 3 shows that I've been watching- The West Wing on Netflix (midway through season 2; good stuff all in all, but I'm still not fully sold on Sorkin), The Mary Tyler Moore Show on DVD (finally got seasons 5 & 6 and midway through 5; also great, and while the lack of Rhoda made the season feel a little empty at first, I love how Sue Ann is being integrated more), and Curb Your Enthusiasm online (wrapping up season 2 now; it's a little too much for me sometimes, but when it's on, hilarious. And I've been going through it quite fast). I've also been watching a little bit of Rhoda on MeTV. The show is so disjointed, but the general MTM writing is still strong here, and I do like Julie Kavner as Brenda. She is to Rhoda what Niles is to Frasier.

I want to get into Veep soon, and I might pause one of the ones I'm watching on my TV for Orange is the New Black, because that just looks great.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 21, 2013, 07:58:19 PM
I've been swapping between Buffy and Angel over the past few days. I'm half-way through Buffy season 4 and Angel season 1, and overall Angel is more up my alley as a show, but Buffy is still entertaining.

Also, I know that Joss Whedon likes to kill off characters and such, but I wasn't expecting Doyle to be killed off so early. I was thinking it may have been more effective if he had died closer to the end of season 1, so that you got a little bit more aspects of his character which still didn't feel quite fully developed by the time he was off'ed, but maybe that's just me. I suppose they got him killed-off in the middle of the season more for shock value, though. That said, he at least went out on a great episode, and essentially had a more dignified death than I can say for other unlucky characters from Whedon-created shows.

One other thing that I have to say is that Angel is A LOT more interesting of a character when he's NOT Buffy's love interest. He just has so many other facets to his character that this series gets to explore, but which were pushed to the side when he was a regular on Buffy.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 21, 2013, 08:50:56 PM
Well Doyle's actor died shortly after he did in the show, so it might have been for the best.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 21, 2013, 09:49:12 PM
Well, assuming Wikipedia isn't lying to me, it says that he died in 2002, whereas the show started airing in 1999, so I do think that he could have at least still lasted until the end of the 1st season. That said, his death itself was effective, and even though he was on the show for a short period of time, his character is still pretty memorable to leave a lasting impact for at least the rest of the season. Anyways, I'm just more peeved that he got replaced by Wesley. As far as comic relief characters go, Wesley certainly isn't my favorite. I mean, I know that he's supposed to come off as annoying, but I think he's meant to be annoying to the other characters and amusing to the audience. But instead I think he just annoys everyone who watches him. But, who knows, maybe he'll improve later on. I do think that Doyle was a legit funny character, though, which is why I mostly miss him as the strong comic relief element of the show with a bit of serious drama of his own that he was able to add.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 21, 2013, 10:00:42 PM
Wow, I was way off with that. :sweat:

But don't sweat about Wesley being on the show. He changes a lot over the years.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 28, 2013, 03:28:42 PM
So, I recently just came to the realization that Angel is basically the closest thing that I'll ever see to a Devil May Cry live-action TV series. Sure, one is a TV series and one is a video game series with over-the-top action, but the basic concept is more or less the same. A demon of some sort (in this case Angel is a vampire, but he's still basically just a type of demon) that allies himself with humans and some other demons or supernatural forces, and goes out on case-by-case missions to fight other demons, who are evil n' stuff. Of course, being that Angel is a TV series and not an action game, it naturally has much better writing than any DMC game.

Anyways, I'm on season 5 of Buffy and season 2 of Angel. I fucking hate Dawn. I just want to put it out there. I'm not sure what the writers were thinking with adding in this character as a plot-point, and maybe she was deliberately meant to be annoying, but where in writing 101 does it say that adding in a character strictly as a plot device and making them as unbearable as possible is a good idea?

You know how Whedon loves to kill off characters just becuase? Well, now'd be a good time to keep with that principle of his. But, you know, I'm just say'n is all....

Angel is still great, though. On the whole, so far, I really do like Buffy as a series, but always felt that the teen melodrama aspects of it always held it back a bit. Angel as a series has all of the good elements with Buffy without the teen angst and with a bit more liberty in telling downright darker story-lines, so its just more up my alley as a show.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 28, 2013, 07:09:19 PM
Dawn has some great moments, but she's far from a favorite.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 29, 2013, 12:30:35 AM
Anyway, I started watching Orange is the New Black, and now I will never see Janeway in the same light again.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 02, 2013, 02:46:03 PM
I currently just got around to season 6 of Buffy and season 3 of Angel. Here's my back-log of shows to watch on Netflix after I'm done with these other 2 series:

American Horror Story (Because they only have 1 season up and I wanted to check it out)
Dollhouse (Because its another Joss Whedon series, and I like his work enough to give it a try)
The X-Files (Because its apparently supposed to be the most influential sci-fi series of the past 2 decades)
Star Trek (Because its apparently supposed to be the most influential sci-fi series of all time; and yes, I only mean TOS)
Dr. Who (2005 - Present)

As you're all probably aware, I'm not a very avid watcher of TV shows, so I'm open to any other recommendations of stuff that I can find streaming on either Netflix or Hulu.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 02, 2013, 02:51:16 PM
Eh, Buffy's more influential than X-Files at this point. And better. Same with Angel.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 02, 2013, 02:52:53 PM
Probably, but I've heard people talk so highly about that series that now I just have to at least give it a try.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 02, 2013, 03:07:08 PM
Yeah, it's a good show, worth checking out. And we got Vince Gilligan out of it, so we can always be grateful for that.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on August 02, 2013, 09:00:59 PM
King Of The Hill.

;)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 02, 2013, 09:04:06 PM
I was kind of referring more to live-action shows, but I'll also get around to that series eventually.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on August 02, 2013, 09:07:43 PM
It's my duty to incessantly suggest it.

But otherwise, how about Twin Peaks?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on August 02, 2013, 09:43:19 PM
I saw a bit of How I met Your Mother recently, about a good half a season's worth I reckon, while I was trapped on vacation in India, and really enjoyed it. With the show's final season starting in September, I think I'll try and get caught up on the show in time to catch it's series finale live.

I also watched half of the first season of Revenge and...meh. It's honestly too over-dramatic, to the point it sucks out my suspension of disbelief and made it a very boring experience for me. In a way, it's dramatics lends to a sense of camp, and made it, to a point, fun to watch to make fun of. However, I just can't care about these characters. Emily/Amanda has zero personality except to be obnoxious and manipulative, and the rest of the characters embody tv drama stereotypes I've seen before and have never truly been fond of. It's just not a show I can enjoy, personally, and I don't think I'll watch it further anytime soon.

The Wire, Mad Men, Breaking Bad, and Game of Thrones are somewhat bigger priorities to me, however. I'm going to finally try and watch them starting in the next two months, although college and social life will no doubt reduce my tv watching time to a bare minimum, so progress on all of 'em will be slooooooooooooooowww...

Damn my backlog... :imnothappy:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 02, 2013, 10:10:40 PM
Yeah, Twin Peaks is another one that I've been meaning to check out. I'll add it to my backlog.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 02, 2013, 10:15:55 PM
Cartoon X, you really should try to get into Breaking Bad soon. With the mid-season premiere coming up next Sunday, you're not going to stop hearing about the show, and you don't want to get spoiled, do you? ;)

I'm glad you're enjoying HIMYM, too. I understand that because it's a CBS multi-camera comedy, it tends to get ignored with the more sociably revered comedies out there, but I just still get a kick out of it. Even with the writing not being as strong as it used to be, there are still plenty of great moments in the later season, that range to being hilarious, heartbreaking and sometimes both.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 04, 2013, 09:02:00 PM
I just saw "Once More, With Feeling." I'm not a fan of musicals, but this is definitely a top 10'er for me. Spike's solo was my favorite.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Grave on August 04, 2013, 11:26:29 PM
Burn Notice

After the disappointing final episode of the previous season I found myself not really wanting to follow this season, but outta curiosity, I decided to watch this final season and I have to say I am impressed with what I'm seeing so far.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 06, 2013, 01:43:00 PM
The craziest thing I realized about Orange is the New Black after finishing it- Nick Sobotka is Pornstache!
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 08, 2013, 09:42:20 PM
So, I'll be honest, here. I thought that season 2 of Angel was a bit weak (I honestly actually preferred season 1, which I liked quite a bit), but it was still overall good in quality. That said, Buffy season 5 was definitely the much better-written, and overall stronger season of the 2 shows.

That said, Angel season 3 just kicks Buffy season 6 straight-up in the ass. Shit just got REAL, here. Holtz took Angel's son into a hell dimension, and Angel is so furious with Wesley (despite clearly understanding the reason behind his actions), that he downright tried to kill him, and made it clear to him beforehand that he was doing it as Angel, not as Angelus. That seems like some pretty irreparable damage done between their relationship as close friends and allies. I don't think I can see how Wesley will ever get Angel's forgiveness for this, but I'm guessing that he might eventually do so since he isn't exactly dead yet, and I doubt that they'd just get rid of Angel's right-hand man from the show like that (actually, I keep forgetting that he's technically Angel's boss....well, at least he was). Avaitor was right, though. Wesley did change a lot. He's certainly not a favorite character of mine, but I have grown to appreciate his numerous contributions to the team, and it'd be hard to imagine the show going on without him, but it also creates for some great drama to see him now being cast out of the team by Angel (who once again, actually physically tried to kill the guy). That's some heavy stuff, right there.

As for Buffy season 6, its not bad, but the fact that we went from a main villain was a freaking God to a group of nerds who appeared in a few episodes here and there from earlier seasons just feels like such a slap in the face. Its not like I expect the next bad guy to be more powerful than the last like it was following some DBZ-level logic, but at least give me a villain that I can take seriously. The nerds would have worked fine as villains for just an episode or 2, but being the main villains of an entire season story-arc is a huge mistake on the part of the writers, IMO.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 08, 2013, 11:49:51 PM
Have you finished season 6 yet?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 09, 2013, 01:40:51 AM
I have 3 episodes left to go as of now.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 12, 2013, 04:23:21 PM
I'm watching an episode of Curb where Larry's dog is considered racist.

I hope this goes better than the KOTH episode.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 12, 2013, 06:32:56 PM
Buffy season 7 is A LOT better than season 6 was, so far. It seems suitably strong and well-paced for a final season of the series. Hopefully the rest of the season is like this. If so, then I don't understand why I've seen people say that the last season is terrible.

Angel season 4 is great, too, especially with the epic return of Angelus. The whole love-triangle between Angel, Cordelia, and Connor seriously creep'ed me out, though. That's borderline Oedipus-esque territory. :whuh:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 12, 2013, 11:56:58 PM
Holy crap....Did I just hear a direct DBZ reference in Buffy: The Vampire Slayer? Well, now I've seen everything.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on August 13, 2013, 08:10:40 AM
Five episodes into Breaking Bad's fifth and final season, this is definitely one of the best shows I've ever seen.
Pretty sure that Walter himself is the most evil character left in the series. Even Mike, ruthless killer though he may be, has a code of honor of sorts. Of course, this development was bound to happen since the entire show has been about Walt's turn to villainy.

Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 14, 2013, 06:52:05 PM
It just hit me that I only have 5 episodes of Buffy left to go. Its been a fun ride through the series, for the most part. Hopefully the conclusion to this final season will be suitably well-done to send the series off on a high note.

Angel season 4 has been a bit too convoluted for my liking. It started out OK, but I've grown kind of tired of the "mystical pregnancy" plots in this show (it kind of bothers me that this is even a thing in this show, in the first place). Its like a pattern between Buffy and Angel for me, really. Its always one of them has the strong season while the other one has a weak season. On that note, I liked Angel season 1 better than Buffy season 4, Buffy season 5 better than Angel season 2, Angel season 3 better than Buffy season 6, and now I'm liking Buffy season 7 substantially more than Angel season 4, but on the whole I still really like both shows. I just can't wait for Angel season 5, since I know that's when Spike will join the regular cast.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 14, 2013, 07:00:08 PM
I still wish Joss got to make that movie with Spike and Willow. Or the one with Giles that the BBC was going to fund.

Ah well.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 14, 2013, 07:26:34 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on August 14, 2013, 07:00:08 PM
I still wish Joss got to make that movie with Spike and Willow. Or the one with Giles that the BBC was going to fund.

Ah well.

Spike deserves his own freaking series, IMO. I mean, there's just so much that you could do with that character. I know that I'll probably be disappointed that he only gets 1 season on Angel (since it ends with season 5), being that I can only imagine how great his and Angel's chemistry would be together. I haven't seen season 5 yet, but I just feel like there's no way he couldn't be gold on that show. He's my favorite character in the entire Buffy-verse, personally. I mean, I really don't get how this guy apparently has a bunch of haters.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 14, 2013, 07:46:45 PM
Spike kinda pussied out when he and Buffy got into their weird relationship. He still had his sense of humor, but he wasn't really the same, never mind the fact that the whole idea of them being together was stupid as fuck. And I say this as someone who never understood why Buffy and Angel had so many supporters either.

Spike's a lot more fun in his season of Angel. AndI do believe that he's had a canon series or two in the ongoing comics line.

Also, my favorite character in the Buffyverse has to be Giles. He nearly made my 10 favorite characters list, just missing by a slight hair.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 14, 2013, 08:00:23 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on August 14, 2013, 07:46:45 PM
Spike kinda pussied out when he and Buffy got into their weird relationship. He still had his sense of humor, but he wasn't really the same, never mind the fact that the whole idea of them being together was stupid as fuck. And I say this as someone who never understood why Buffy and Angel had so many supporters either.

The relationship was stupid (season 6 on the whole was full of really idiotic sub-plots), but Spike was still legitimately funny and entertaining, IMO. He had plenty of good moments in that season. In season 7 they play his character a bit more serious what with him getting a soul back and all, but he still has plenty of bad-ass aspects to his character, so I still think he's entertaining as hell.

QuoteAlso, my favorite character in the Buffyverse has to be Giles. He nearly made my 10 favorite characters list, just missing by a slight hair.

Yeah, Giles is a great character, but that may have more to do with Anthony Steward Head's amazing performance of the character than the actual writing behind him, which on its own is decent enough, but probably wouldn't be nearly as special if it were delivered by any other actor.

Overall, though, Giles is probably my 3rd favorite character. My 2nd favorite is actually Xander, believe it or not, if only because I can relate to him the most. I did like Willow a lot as well, but season 6 REALLY dragged her character down for me....like, a lot.

Also, while we're listing off favorites, my favorite villain in the series was Angelus, followed closely behind by The Mayor. My least favorite villain in the series was Adam, who was just plain dull.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 14, 2013, 08:03:24 PM
Quote from: Ensatsu-ken on August 14, 2013, 08:00:23 PM
Also, while we're listing off favorites, my favorite villain in the series was Angelus, followed closely behind by The Mayor. My least favorite villain in the series was Adam, who was just plain dull.
Not bad choices, but I'd switch the Mayor and Angelus myself.

I can see why season 6 ruined Willow for you, but she's still my favorite female on the show. I think Anya and Cordy are tied after that.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 14, 2013, 08:11:21 PM
If we're specifically talking about Cordelia on Angel, then she's hands down my favorite female character in the entire Buffy-verse.

Also, as much as I initially disliked him, Wesley has really climbed up there for me, though I still wouldn't exactly call him a favorite.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 16, 2013, 12:12:50 AM
I just finished Buffy. The series finale was great, IMO, and overall I really liked the final season. I don't know why I've heard people say that its not that great. Sure, on the whole it wasn't quite as great as seasons 2, 3, and 5, but I personally liked it substantially more than seasons 1, 4, and 6, and even those seasons had plenty of great moments (and I certainly wouldn't call any of them downright bad), so on that end season 7 did its job just fine for me. Most of the characters got proper closure, and I LOVE that one scene before the final battle where Buffy, Xander, Willow, and Giles all stand together in the school hallway and have a conversation like its a normal day, and then we get Giles making that great callback line to the 1st season, where he says that "the world is most certainly doomed." It was also great to get a brief cameo appearance from Angel in the episode.

I think my only problem with the ending might be just that I know that Spike's sacrifice doesn't mean that much in the long run since I KNOW that he will be back in Angel's final season. But, that's not really a fault of Buffy as a show. I just find that since I already know the character will be coming back, it kind of cheapens the impact of his supposed sacrifice for me. Its the same with how Angel being killed off in the season 2 finale didn't really phase me that much since I knew that he'd be resurrected in season 3, and how Buffy's death in season 5 didn't mean anything since clearly the show wouldn't go on for 2 more seasons without her. At any rate, that whole Spike thing is just a nitpick on my part. Overall the series finale was great and I really did enjoy the series on the whole. I think season 7 was also the perfect spot to leave it off on, so even though the story supposedly gets continued in the comics, I really have no interest in reading them at the moment.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on August 16, 2013, 12:03:31 PM
Not in the least inspired by a certain popular internet comedian-critic, I've decided to revisit the Americanized seasons of Sailor Moon which ran in 1995 & 1998 (choosing to skip anything 2000 and up, because... you just can't change Serena's voice a 3rd time).

Starting with the Allen and Anne episodes. Or Alan and Ann. Or Allen and Ann. Or Alan and Anne. Whatever combination is correct. I'm up to episode 6, "Kindergarten Chaos."
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on August 18, 2013, 01:34:05 AM
Quote from: Ensatsu-ken on July 28, 2013, 03:28:42 PM
So, I recently just came to the realization that Angel is basically the closest thing that I'll ever see to a Devil May Cry live-action TV series. Sure, one is a TV series and one is a video game series with over-the-top action, but the basic concept is more or less the same. A demon of some sort (in this case Angel is a vampire, but he's still basically just a type of demon) that allies himself with humans and some other demons or supernatural forces, and goes out on case-by-case missions to fight other demons, who are evil n' stuff. Of course, being that Angel is a TV series and not an action game, it naturally has much better writing than any DMC game.

Anyways, I'm on season 5 of Buffy and season 2 of Angel. I fucking hate Dawn. I just want to put it out there. I'm not sure what the writers were thinking with adding in this character as a plot-point, and maybe she was deliberately meant to be annoying, but where in writing 101 does it say that adding in a character strictly as a plot device and making them as unbearable as possible is a good idea?

You know how Whedon loves to kill off characters just becuase? Well, now'd be a good time to keep with that principle of his. But, you know, I'm just say'n is all....

Angel is still great, though. On the whole, so far, I really do like Buffy as a series, but always felt that the teen melodrama aspects of it always held it back a bit. Angel as a series has all of the good elements with Buffy without the teen angst and with a bit more liberty in telling downright darker story-lines, so its just more up my alley as a show.
Do you have to throw DMC into every conversation these days? :D
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on August 18, 2013, 01:51:29 AM
Let's see: I want to start The Wire and Breaking Bad, probably the Shield (Hmm, I think how much I like Lemonhead will make me bother), restart and finally finish Prison Break and its movie (PLEASE watch this show, Insomniac. I am going to watch The Wire, dammit), finish Human Target, catch up on Burn Notice and y'all are making Buffy and Angel sound real good so I might get into those two shows.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 18, 2013, 02:19:43 AM
Quote from: gunswordfist on August 18, 2013, 01:34:05 AM
Do you have to throw DMC into every conversation these days? :D

Do you have to keep responding to posts that people made over a month ago, these days? :sly:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on August 18, 2013, 03:48:15 AM
Quote from: Ensatsu-ken on August 18, 2013, 02:19:43 AM
Quote from: gunswordfist on August 18, 2013, 01:34:05 AM
Do you have to throw DMC into every conversation these days? :D

Do you have to keep responding to posts that people made over a month ago, these days? :sly:
Usually only after Desen pigbacks one of talon's posts. ;)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 18, 2013, 06:32:13 PM
Well if anyone needs a show to watch.

(http://31.media.tumblr.com/58ce13056af21fa8ad74eb6a66516378/tumblr_mqmdhe2v5L1rwpv3bo3_250.gif)

There's always this.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on August 19, 2013, 12:18:30 AM
I also want to finish Sarah Connor Chronicles and Dark Angel and watch 24.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 19, 2013, 05:48:20 PM
I think that "Smile Time" may just be my personal favorite Angel episode, so far. Either that, or "Hero" from the 1st season.

Overall, though, season 5 has been great, and a HUGE step up in quality from season 4, IMO.

Also, now that I think back to it, I didn't find season 2 to be weak at all. It was good, but I didn't care for the the Pylea stuff at the end, and I do feel that Buffy season 5 was overall better, which may have made Angel season 2 seem a bit weaker in comparison, but on its own merits it was still great for the most part. On that note, I can say that the first 3 seasons were definitely very strong, and season 5 has been possibly the best season yet, though I still have about 8 or so episodes left to go. At this point, season 4 is the only real weak-link in the series for me. It had some nice ideas, but too many of of them were forced into the plot at once, and the both the Apocalypse and Jasmine story-arcs became way more convoluted than they needed to be (and on top of that, they were honestly pretty corny at times). I like the whole set-up of season 5 with Angel and company working at Wolfram & Hart, though, and just as I predicted, Spike's chemistry with Angel in this season is golden. I kind of wish that he had been introduced into the series earlier, so that we could have gotten more episodes with him interacting with the rest of the team.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 20, 2013, 05:50:28 PM
Now that I've finished watching Buffy and Angel, I am moving onto American Horror Story, since there's only 1 season of that up so far, and that season only has 12 episodes in it, so it should be a relatively quick watch, overall.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 20, 2013, 05:52:12 PM
I should probably watch AHS: Asylum when that gets on Netflix. I skipped it because of Adam Levine and a busy-enough schedule, but I hear that he isn't that much of a problem on the show.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 29, 2013, 11:04:09 PM
Man, Curb is painful sometimes. There are some great gags in the show, but I can only see Larry David fuck shit up so much before I get irritated. I'm on the Seinfeld reunion season now, and even though there's one more after it, I think I'm going to stop here, at least until Larry decides to do another season.

Next up will either be a rewatch of The Prisoner or a go-through of The Thick of It.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on August 30, 2013, 02:44:49 AM
Catching up on some Blip shows I've spent months away from:

The Bunny Perspective - Thumbs down. I don't know if this guy is only in his element when laying the royal smackdown on Glee... but he should stay away from horror. First he raves about Battle Royale, then Cabin in the Woods... I didn't have to strength to click on his Anthologies video to hear him praise Trick 'R Treat- the angriest I have ever been in my life as a movie watcher after Saw and Armageddon.

Todd's Pop Song Reviews - Thumbs up. I think I watched in the neighborhood of 10-11 episodes. The only one that was lukewarm was his One Hit Wonderland on The Weather Girls. But his review of Burlesque made up for that. I was actually pretty impressed with how he dealt with the stupid catty character that he compared that girl (she looks like 20 other famous women, I don't know her name) to Mean Girls. Maybe she was in Mean Girls, I couldn't tell.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 30, 2013, 10:31:00 AM
Quote from: No-Personality on August 30, 2013, 02:44:49 AM
I was actually pretty impressed with how he dealt with the stupid catty character that he compared that girl (she looks like 20 other famous women, I don't know her name) to Mean Girls. Maybe she was in Mean Girls, I couldn't tell.
You mean Regina George? I only saw the review once, but that's the character's name.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on August 30, 2013, 04:31:24 PM
Just catching up on Burn Notice, King Of Queens and UFC for me.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on August 30, 2013, 05:10:03 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on August 30, 2013, 10:31:00 AMYou mean Regina George?
Sounds 'bout right.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 30, 2013, 10:19:58 PM
Actually, I think I'm gonna rewatch Andy Milonakis.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on September 04, 2013, 06:10:26 PM
Dusted off a good 50 episodes of Sailor Moon so far. It's pretty much the same as I remember it, not great but very easy to watch. And I still think highly of the animation.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on September 11, 2013, 06:20:03 PM
Spent the last month watching How I met Your Mother, and barring the first and last quarters of season 8, I've caught up. I was surprised not only at how really funny the series was, but also by how strong the characters are. Ted, Robin, Marshall, Lily, and especially Barney have well-defined, funny, and well-rounded personality that makes it engaging to watch them, and their quirks never get annoying, which is a commendable feat! Now I'm really looking forward to watching the final season, which, from what I've heard, is going to be - wait for it - Legendary!  ;)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on September 11, 2013, 06:21:51 PM
I'm not sure if there's anyone around here who likes it. :??:

I think it's good, though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Angus on September 11, 2013, 07:25:56 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on August 20, 2013, 05:52:12 PM
I should probably watch AHS: Asylum when that gets on Netflix. I skipped it because of Adam Levine and a busy-enough schedule, but I hear that he isn't that much of a problem on the show.

That one kind of got just plain gory and not much thrill, at least what I've seen of it.  But yeah hoping that stuff gets to Netflix.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 11, 2013, 08:24:47 PM
I'm on season 4 of The West Wing now, and I'm starting to think that the show peaked with that excellent second season finale. There have still been some strong moments and episodes since then, but Sorkin's faults have become more apparent since. I've heard mixed things about the later, Sorkin-less seasons, but I'm hoping that I fall in the positive camp for them. I know that I'll keep on following Bartlet all the way through.

I also have to say that what might be the best episode of the season thus far is the one which is almost completely away from the White House so CJ can be with her father. It's one of the few episodes from the first 4 seasons that Sorkin didn't write, and it shows that there's life away from foreign policies and fast-paced dialogue for the show. Let's see how this goes.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on September 12, 2013, 05:39:43 AM
Done with Sailor Moon. Maybe for all-time. I think I racked up about 81 episodes, a good 7 of which I'd never seen before. And... hoah, boy, those were some 7-10 final episodes... not good, I don't mean that. Stupid is a good word. To describe what I sat through. Something really happened to that show after it broke up in 1995. Hell, something really happened to the show in their trying to cobble together a satisfying 17 new episodes. Multiple times the show changed from functioning and watchable to outright terrible. For different reasons. First- the dubbing. I don't know at what point in the 1998 series (which is a continuation of the Rubius storyline, introducing his extremely loosely related family of other Jewel People: Emerald, Saffire, and Diamond- I'll explain that momentarily) fell into this trend but: these writers were having a lot of trouble putting words into the characters' mouths.

They apparently just flat-out couldn't think of anything to fit into their mouths, so when words finally make it into the mouths- they don't make any sense. That's the fancy way of putting it. A good example would be a scene where Emerald confronts the Sailor Scouts as a group: "hear my words good. C'mon- listen!" You said "hear me," you don't need to say "listen" too. Then Luna will turn to Serena and say something like: "hurry up! Let's go. On the double. Fast. Quick. Speedy." You see what I mean? That's not verbatim but the amount of pointless repetition in the dialogue is insane. I never laughed at the show before but I laughed here. Several times. You can count on running into some example of this at least once a minute and, naturally, several times in several lone minutes. Did the old writers leave? I don't know but these new ones didn't cut it.

Eventually this problem relegated itself to about 5 episodes in the middle. Then begins an interminably long series of You've Got to Be Fucking Kidding Me predictability and obviousness. The examples here are also very abundant and absurd. I'm going to run through a mere few, starting with the Entire Reason Why We Have Reenie in the First Place: she's sent into "present" Tokyo from the "future" Crystal Tokyo to find The Moon Princess and the Silver Imperium Crystal because her Mom is all dying in an ice castle in a polluted, wartorn, fucked up future ghetto of shredded Moon Palace glory (it's very The Ivory Tower from The Never-Ending Story but bluer and icier, less creamy). That's pretty bad / sad- her mother is ailing and weak in the future because - so says Reenie herself - the crystal (which we all know Sailor Moon has in the present, it's "The Thing" she frickin' uses to bring down Queen Beryl and eventually all the Negaverse minions and heal people and yadda yadda) disappeared.

After over 20 episodes of ultra-climactic, relationship-destroying, energy-sucking (I'm referring to the minions' evil plans), plotting, scheming, lying, brain-washing, spell-casting, back-stabbing, loyalty switching, deception, redemption, new beginnings, Serena breaking down in truly gut-wrenching tears (in the Cosmetic Caper episode), multiple people put in comas, dream-diving, conspiracies, overthrows, and battling a total of 6 Master-Nemeses... yeah, what's the source of all this drama? The missing S I Crystal? Yeah- Reenie took it. Had it the whole time. Stole it from her mother, nearly killing her. And... why, you may ask? Because... get ready for it... Nobody remembered her Birthday. If you're thinking this all smells like Sleeping Beauty but rotten and with the brains and soul ripped out- you'd be right. In what is only the LEAST predictable and obvious twist in this plot string, we all know that this Birthday was supposed to be one of those surprise parties where the one having the Birthday is meant to think everyone forgot about her.

She steals the crystal and runs away, Moon Princess mother runs after her (and we all know it's Serena, they kinda told us 40 episodes ago in "A Crystal Clear Destiny" that if it has "Moon" in the title or has the same freakin' hair style as Serena- it's Serena, or daughter, and the show thinks we would never be able to tell that in a million years guessing on our own), and is attacked by the Nega Moon minions. So, Reenie's Birthday just kinda almost completely destroyed the entire Moon Kingdom. It gets better: Reenie stole the Crystal but has no memory of doing it. Which is the show's cue to replay The Moment the S I Crystal Disappeared. Reenie opened the glass case it's held in (cough, Beauty & the Beast, cough) and it vanished into thin air. As in: we all know Reenie absorbed the Crystal into herself. There's nowhere else it could have gone. 2, 3 episodes later, the show reveals it like it's a big deal. In Most Dramatically Overplayed, We Totally Fooled You fashion. Yeah, you didn't fool Dorf.

The show proceeds like this. I literally sat there and said aloud everything that was going to happen. I wasn't wrong once. I am convinced anyone else in the world would have guessed what was coming episodes before it did. The other 2 major problems I had were Serena + Diamond... this one's quick: he loves to kidnap her and make her kiss him and it's someone's victim-victimizer fantasy and nobody wants to see it. Not a single person. This pops up a few times, each well after the last time it was sunk and should have stayed that way. The other being The Single Most Long, Boring, Repetitious, Drawn-Out, Predictable, Unnecessary, Etc. Series of "Fateful," What Have I Done / I Should Have Listened deaths I've ever encountered. Rubeus's death made sense. Something had to be lost in that semi-epic battle. After that, it gets real insulting real quick.

So, about this Jewel Family: apparently Emerald isn't a full-on sister to anyone since she's in love with Diamond and Saffire's in love with her, then he freakin' falls in love with Prisma who only comes back in the final 17 episodes to try and give him advice to save him. But, before that (which is just in the show to Pile On the Tragedy, none of which is interesting or heartfelt in the slightest), we have the overplayed, heavy-handed "you so jealous, now be a dragon" with Emerald hating Sailor Moon for being Diamond's kidnap-toy so she has to break out the big guns to steal him back... So, there's a Dragon Battle and Sailor Moon must analyze the deep vulnerability inside the dragon's heart to defeat it, this should be a set-up to redeem or heal Emerald's character (she gets the most screentime of all the minions since Rubeus and The Four Sisters turned up in U.S. Episode 54). No, she just dies. Even though Sailor Moon has to practically exorcise the frickin' Dragon to take it down. It was nearly an intervention.

Then, Reenie turns evil (which is a role she, as you can imagine, slips into very easily) to replace Emerald and Saffire has to go make himself the Most Interesting (and Screentimey) character in his selfless epic efforts to save Diamond by showing him The Wise Man was planning on disposing of everyone working below him and keeping all the Dark Energy for himself (building up to a frickin' obvious Queen Beryl Showdown Rip-off Ending) and there's nearly a full 2-parter on this and... guess what? Saffire dies! (Cough, Neflite, cough!) And I mean after like 5 minutes of the Sailor Scouts forming a wall around him like they did with The Four Sisters to convince him of how friendship, loyalty, and helping others is the only destiny and path in one life's journey. Which is the great lesson the entire Rubeus / Diamond courts of minions exist to learn. So... of course, he dies. So good he learned that lesson before he croaked, leaving Prisma someone to give her an excuse to be all lonely and tear-sheddy, You'll Always Be in My Memories mourny.

But, really, his death was his sacrifice to save his brother, Diamond. As in: to shorthand the whole Sailor Scout message for Diamond, don't let his death and Emerald's be in vain, don't trust The Wise Man, work With the Earth people instead of Against them... Guess what? He dies too. But in the next episode, after the show tries to distract us with a bunch of new bullshit all of which I've forgotten. And it's his death scene where I got fed up and wanted to kick the show. Exactly how poignant is this supposed to be when it's repeated 3 times for 3 shallow, uninteresting characters whose deaths are pure cliche? They worked pretty hard to make Saffire a likable character, and while they couldn't be bothered when it came to Diamond or Emerald, this doesn't mean they didn't prolong every solitary moment of inner-workings b.s. they were going through to make their deaths clunkier. And, really? This is just a tamer, warm-milkier Formula Repeat of Neflite / Zoecite / Malachite anyway. In that, we get to see what makes them tick, and even though they're evil- their deaths were pretty tragic and sad. Same can't be said for the Jewel Family.

What's even worse? Sailor Moon cries for everyone who died. No, she actually brokedown for Diamond. Which might make sense given how Prisma (and, by virtue- Avery, Catsy, and Birdie join in) got so involved in trying to help Saffire who tried so hard to save Diamond who compelled Emerald to go soak up her Super-Evil Dark Villainness Power in his name (which has the same effect as Snow White's Queen drinking the potion to turn her into the old hag). In a (very twisted) sense, someone was suffering a deep loss because of Saffire's death which has now Don't Let My Death Be in Vain'd in the form of the effort to rescue Diamond. But... well, he's stupid. Not stubborn. Not blind. Not corrupted. Not confused. Not dedicated to revenge so much as to be completely insulated after his brother's death. Just plain old stupid. And, yet, Sailor Moon cries for him. This isn't tragedy: it's routine.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on September 12, 2013, 12:18:36 PM
Yeah.... that kinda stuff is why I never really could get into the anime when I tried to watch it a while back. I found that most of that stuff that you mentioned doesn't happen and isn't a problem in the original version of the story in the manga. Chibiusa does turn into Wicked Lady in the manga, though, but the reason is more connected to her insecurity about not having her own powers and being grown up despite being alive for centuries at that point, in addition to her jealousy of Sailor Moon and fear of abandonment/betrayal, so it comes off a lot more believable, and the resolution is way better. The manga really doesn't try to make the villains all that sympathetic and doesn't force any emotional moments in their deaths, with the downside being that the minor villains aren't really all that well-defined or developed. But, I can guarantee you Usagi does not cry when Diamond and Sapphire die in the manga, so there's that.  :humhumhum:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 27, 2013, 11:46:19 PM
Now I know the difference between a gook and a chink.

Watching All in the Family is... fun!  >_<
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on September 29, 2013, 06:34:48 PM
I've been watching It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and am on season three so far. I'm loving it! After all, I like casts of eccentric jerks who can be likable and despicable at the same time, and this show's got the best one I've ever seen.  :D
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on September 29, 2013, 06:58:18 PM
I'm 6 episodes into American Horror Story, and I have mixed feelings about it so far. On the one hand, it has great acting, an appropriately creepy and mysterious atmosphere, and is generally good at avoiding common horror tropes and going down the unpredictable route most of the time. On the other hand, the writing is a mess, with the story being all over the place at times, and with some of the plot twists making the story feel more convoluted rather than answering any real questions that are brought up in the plot. Yet, the show manages to remain just intriguing enough for me to want to keep watching more of it, so I guess it's definitely doing something right in that regard.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 29, 2013, 09:30:16 PM
AHS isn't a smart show in most ways, but as a callback to camp, it is fun.

Jessica Lange more than makes it worth the experience, too. She just has a ball all the way through.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 03, 2013, 04:24:11 PM
DMR has a couple of muppet releases available to order, including the second and third seasons of the show.

I'm usually against using the site to order DVDs or Blu-Rays I can buy elsewhere, but they're each under 1000 points, and I honestly never use them, so I'm considering ordering them. It's a great show, anyway.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on October 06, 2013, 08:21:52 PM
Been re-watching Disney's Adventures in Wonderland on YouTube. Whatever episodes are available (there are quite a few but there are also quite a few missing). They have most of the ones I remember: the pizza one, the pretzel one, the shampoo one, the Hatter hurts his back, etc.

For the most part, it's been a lot of fun. It wasn't my favorite thing ever as a kid but I did enjoy it. And except for the musical numbers (which really vary in quality, some songs aren't so bad), I would have to say it holds up.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 07, 2013, 09:01:39 AM
Oh man, I remember watching the shit out of that when we got our annual preview of the Disney Channel before it became a basic cable network. That and Welcome to Pooh Corner.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on October 07, 2013, 10:01:24 PM
I haven't bothered to try and dig up Pooh Corner on YouTube. I did try Dumbo's Circus at one point but when they only had like 1 full-length episode, I decided not to tease myself.

So, it's back to Blip as usual: today was Todd in the Shadows day. Watched at least 12 of his videos and, of course, I have to say since I just discovered the masterpiece that is his episode on LMFAO's "Sexy and I Know It"... well, I watched it twice. I'm a little surprised he doesn't put that amount of analysis into every one of his reviews. I'm referring to the section where he basically satirizes Oancitizen. With Oancitizen actually intro-ing him. It was both really funny and really smart. Like...really smart. I was more than a little intimidated. Because of his typical "I kinda" thing, I didn't expect him to let loose like he did. Not to mention that I think he just covered that song top to bottom. I sort of have the same problems with Zoolander as he has with this video and I was so glad that he mentioned the 2 things I notice most people neglect: 1) that it's a double standard and women sure as hell can't do this and get away with it, 2) that they're just mocking the idea that men could ever be beautiful. In our very Two and a Half Men culture, these sorts of double standards do trouble me.

Also, I watched Diamanda Hagan's Police Academy vlog series, a ton of Cinema Snob's Brad Tries and 80's Dan (oh, and his very shortly lived Softly from Cable series- I actually saw Bikini Carwash as a kid), a few of Phelous's Bootleg Zones and that Roger Corman's Aladdin 2-parter (the 1st part is hysterical), Phelous & Lupa's Tender Loving Care thing (all 10 parts), Pushing Up Roses' Let's Play of King's Quest 7.

And I re-watched the 3rd series of Chef! It's still terrible but, though I hate to admit it, it becomes more tolerable every time I rewatch it. That still doesn't exactly undo all the damage the show did but... at least Janice wasn't too badly character-mangled. (Honestly tried to think of another compliment there. That's the best I can do.)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 07, 2013, 10:28:55 PM
Quote from: No-Personality on October 07, 2013, 10:01:24 PM
Not to mention that I think he just covered that song top to bottom. I sort of have the same problems with Zoolander as he has with this video and I was so glad that he mentioned the 2 things I notice most people neglect: 1) that it's a double standard and women sure as hell can't do this and get away with it, 2) that they're just mocking the idea that men could ever be beautiful. In our very Two and a Half Men culture, these sorts of double standards do trouble me.
Oh yes. This has always been my problem with the song, and Todd's argument as to why it is the problem makes it one of my favorite reviews of his, too.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 11, 2013, 07:13:00 PM
So I'm about halfway through the first season of Homeland, and while I respect the effort put behind the show, it hasn't grabbed me yet. I've heard mixed things about the second season, so if I'm still not impressed by the end of this one, I might drop it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 14, 2013, 03:39:39 PM
I think the reason that I can't get behind Homeland is because Claire Danes reminds me too much of Anna Paquin. Minus the gap, but basically the same range of performance I can't stand.

But yeah, is anybody on here watching anything? I don't like having to multi-post.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on October 14, 2013, 03:55:14 PM
I'm almost caught up on It's Always Sunny in Philedelphia, and it's been consistently hilarious, so I don't have much to say about it...

Other than that, I have been keeping up with Parks and Recreation, but the current season is just alright so far, and there hasn't been any new great episodes yet. Other than those, there aren't really any other live-action shows I'm watching. I love Daily Show and Colbert, but I don't have enough time to watch them much anymore, Children's Hospital and NTSF are done with their recent seasons and are on break, and I've lost interest in watching Modern Family, sorry to say. I wish I had HBO, but I don't, so no Game of Thrones or Boardwalk Empire for me, although I do plan to get around to those shows at some point. So...yeah, not really watching much non-animated shows these days.  :sweat:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 14, 2013, 03:58:14 PM
Well GOT doesn't air until the spring, and I also have to agree that Parks hasn't been so hot this season. Last year wasn't one of its best either, actually.

I think I'm going to either give The Crazy Ones or Brooklyn Nine-Nine a shot. I know the latter has more of a following with people I talk to, but most of those come from New Girl fans, which I'll never get the appeal of, hence why I've been on the fence.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on October 16, 2013, 06:31:27 PM
Fucking Netflix did not tell me Season 5 of Parks & Rec is on Watch Instant. I'll be watching that pretty soon.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 18, 2013, 05:28:42 PM
Looks like I'm watching another CBS show now. The Crazy Ones isn't great, but it shows promise, especially with its supporting cast.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 18, 2013, 05:36:00 PM
That's the show with Robin Williams and Buffy The Vampire Slayer (which is what I'm officially calling Sarah Michelle Gellar from now on, just because), right?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 18, 2013, 05:38:53 PM
Quote from: Ensatsu-ken on October 18, 2013, 05:36:00 PM
That's the show with Robin Williams and Buffy The Vampire Slayer (which is what I'm officially calling Sarah Michelle Gellar from now on, just because), right?
Yep! It's the ADD Robin Williams however, if you can handle that. But Sarah is great with pretty much any kind of delivery.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Nel_Annette on October 18, 2013, 09:15:08 PM
It's cool, Ensatsu. I call Veronica Mars Veronica Mars no matter what shit she's in.  :awesome:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 18, 2013, 09:21:58 PM
Quote from: Nel_Annette on October 18, 2013, 09:15:08 PM
It's cool, Ensatsu. I call Veronica Mars Veronica Mars no matter what shit she's in.  :awesome:
haha, she was in Parks and Rec a couple of weeks ago, and I nearly did the same, even though I haven't seen the show.

I wonder if I'll do the same when I see Frozen.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 20, 2013, 05:17:50 PM
I'm eventually going to finish season 1 of American Horror Story, but really the show just got a bit too silly and convoluted for me to stay too interested in it. But, since it's a short season, I'm still going to finish it up, and may still give season 2 a look whenever Netflix decides to add that.

I just started watching Breaking Bad, and as of only being a single episode into the series, I can say that this show already has me hooked. I also can't believe that I only just noticed that Bryan Cranston is the same guy who played Hal in Malcolm in the Middle. As you can tell I don't watch too much TV, so I've never been familiar with most actors who are primarily associated with TV shows (though I did see Cranston play a character in Argo, which was another great role for him). He's also apparently going to be in that new Godzilla reboot next year....which I'm personally expecting to be a piece of shit, but maybe he'll still somehow have a good performance in there.

Anyways, it looks like BB may end up being my new go-to show until I end up finishing it in a few months.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 20, 2013, 06:30:59 PM
Cranston gets around in movies, but yeah, he's going to be best remembered for his TV roles, BB in particular.

Although I'm pretty excited for him to reprise his character on HIMYM this season.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 21, 2013, 12:30:21 AM
I'm now 4 episodes into Breaking Bad and still loving it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 22, 2013, 03:10:14 PM
"If God had intended for blacks and whites to dance together..."
"He'd have given us rhythm."

Only in the 70's.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 26, 2013, 05:05:44 PM
I'm half-way through season 2 of Breaking Bad (as usual, I'm pretty late to the party). I think it's really good that I waited until this series ended, mostly because its the type of show that makes you want to know what happens next so badly that it could possibly drive you temporarily insane in the wait it must have taken between seasons. So, yeah, it's a damn good show.

I had meant to get to watching the original Star Trek earlier, but I kind of just unexpectedly got into this (and I'll probably check out Mad Men later, as well). Once I manage to finish this show, I'll probably go and watch Star Trek, then The X-Files, and then Dr. Who, as was my original schedule (or something like that).
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 29, 2013, 08:27:44 PM
Well I just got to see Alan Alda's character on The West Wing. I swear, this is almost what Hawkeye Pierce would be like 20 years after the war. The last season wasn't very good at all, but with this and the change in personnel, I'm hoping that the show has a good end.

I'm also thinking of starting Luther up. I need some British drama in my life that isn't sci-fi based, and I've heard good things about this one. Plus, Idris Elba.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on November 01, 2013, 03:31:09 PM
For Halloween I watched "The Stand" miniseries. Being as it's the only adaption of the book, it was quite an enjoyable watch. On a story basis it's easily one of King's best.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on November 18, 2013, 11:40:48 PM
Finished the latest Netflix-uploaded seasons of The Office (so, final), 30 Rock (also, so final), and Parks & Recreation (season 5). Out of those 3 seasons, which would You say was the best?

Well, here's the answer whether you guessed it or not: 30 Rock. And, given the show's wavy quality since the beginning, I thought they absolutely knocked it out of the park. It's probably the best season Of the entire show. Although... after season 5 of P&R, I decided to go rewatch season 3 because I thought it was a masterpiece and... it was just okay on that 2nd watch. I stopped after 6 or 7 eps but whatever.

Anyway, the reason I'm making this post... I watched the first episode of the 2006 series 10 Items or Less way, way, way back in spring 2011 or something like that. And abandoned the show right after as it just wasn't good. For whatever reason, last weekend, I decided to try and finish it off since there are maybe 10 episodes max per season. Well, that didn't go so well this time either. I made it past the first season but stopped somewhere in episode 3 of season 2. And, let me be clear here: it is nothing for me to watch 16 episodes of The Office straight through (well, I mean, without going to bed or checking my E-Mail or something fully voluntary). So... safe to say it never really improved. Not enough at least. I don't think I'll be able to finish it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 19, 2013, 07:22:41 AM
I was a little skeptical of 30 Rock's last season at first, like I was with its last couple of seasons, but rewatching it and thinking some more had me realize that it really was a fantastic final season. One of the problems the show has always had, especially in its later years, is that it's never been great with character development. In some ways, the show actually rewards stagnancy in actions. But here, everyone grew up! Logically! And there's closure for practically every side character on there. Even Lutz got his revenge.

And it's absolutely perfect that Liz's adopted children are basically the child versions of Jenna and Tracy.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on November 21, 2013, 07:34:53 AM
Quote from: Avaitor on November 19, 2013, 07:22:41 AMAnd it's absolutely perfect that Liz's adopted children are basically the child versions of Jenna and Tracy.
I didn't notice that.  :huh:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 22, 2013, 12:49:55 AM
I'm onto series 2 of Luther now. It's a lot better than any procedural currently on American TV, even if it isn't perfect.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Peanutbutter on November 22, 2013, 06:00:09 PM
I'm probably going to buy Game of Thrones soon for my little brother. Which would also give me a chance to watch finally. Although, my mom recently got a two year deal for free HBO and Starz. I may can watch through On Demand, but I have to check first. I'm hoping this may mean an opportunity to see The Wire too.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 22, 2013, 06:07:47 PM
Besides HBO on Demand, depending on which provider and phone/tablet you have, you should be able to have access to HBO Go, which contains most things post-Oz HBO have done.

You should totally check into that!
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on November 23, 2013, 05:20:46 AM
Finally getting around to Arrested Development season 4. I first watched a few 2-3 episode chunks, being pretty damn disappointed. I really am not responding well, overall, to the split story set-up. It made sense when they started with Michael but, after that, I spent about 3 episodes practically screaming "Where's Lindsay?!?!" Then, when she showed up, I almost screamed "Where's Tobias?!?!" (By the way, in case you don't know, I frickin' hate Tobias.) The everyone-at-once format was perfect because you weren't forced to spend 30 straight minutes with one of these excruciatingly aggravating people. Spending 30 minutes with Michael will make you almost hate him, while I admit the more story focus on Tobias makes him less pathetic (if you can believe that). The all-George episode, or episode 2, was the ultimate test of patience. I still don't really understand this wall thing. I thought I did. But Lucille (1) is confusing me. I'm hoping she gets her own episode soon. I'm about 10 episodes in, I think.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 27, 2013, 08:59:28 PM
Oh, I've been meaning to ask this, but Foggle, Insommy, have you guys seen The Sopranos? I know you're both big believers of The Wire, but I haven't seen either of you namedrop HBO's other big drama.

I know GregX is a fan, while NP isn't. And it's still on my list.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 27, 2013, 09:04:42 PM
I plan on it once I finish college.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on November 27, 2013, 10:20:43 PM
I've seen about two seasons' worth and really like it. I definitely plan on finishing it some day.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on November 30, 2013, 12:44:34 AM
Game of Thrones is amazing. 4 episodes in and I'm in love and dying to see more. It's also making me want to read the A Song of Ice and Fire books, which I'll probably be doing soon as I get the chance.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 30, 2013, 01:04:36 AM
Yeah, had a peak by watching the first episode. Enjoyed it, and will continue once time opens up.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on November 30, 2013, 06:44:15 PM
Started Season 5 of Burn Notice last week, finished it this week and watched about 5 episodes of season 6 this week. :swoon:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on December 02, 2013, 01:36:24 AM
Finished AD4.

So...

Maeby got freaking screwed! And I mean, as an observation. I was shocked. The only thing I hold against the show is I really hated that her story ended with a Richter-twin joke. I actually cared about her and she had to share the end of her story with a really lousy, worn-out joke.

If Job's story ends here, I'll be happy with that.

I really want to see the rest of Lindsay's story. Like, NOW! I had an evil villain's smile 10-feet wide during her story's "conclusion." I know she become a tool for conservative interests but I don't care: It was Just Too Perfect. Though, this is more for the revenge on her mother than Sally Sitwell and Lucille Austero. When you find out it was Buster who nabbed the pictures and not Sally or Lucille, it cheapens her revenge.

George Bluth might have now eclipsed Tobias for character I least care about. Him and Oscar deserve creative oblivion.

Michael? Whatever. This was not a good season for his character.

I may have mentioned somewhere that I bailed hard on Buster's episode after a few minutes of Ultra Awkward. But it was a lot better than I expected, when I hunkered down and braved through it.

George Michael's story took a lot to get me invested, but... that ending... is something else. And, Rebel? She didn't even show up on my radar half the time. But I'll be damned if that final episode and that final scene didn't have me on the edge of my seat.

The same with Lucille "1"s episode. Talk about a powerhouse. And, though I love Jessica Walter's performance, I never really cared about her character before. This season changed everything. Her episode actually made me care about her. I never thought I would see her elevated beyond that person I kind of resented for the cheap jokes at Lindsay's expense.

Overall, I really have to say I think this season was more on-par with the first 2 than I expected it was going to be. It's nowhere near as complex as the former seasons but I'm shocked at how much better this season was for Buster and Tobias (my opinion) and what it was able to do for characters I merely tolerated before. Even if I lost everything I felt previously for Michael Bluth.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on December 02, 2013, 01:46:54 PM
More burn Notice today and yesterday. Season 6 is pretty addictive so far. A surprising amount of characters have been killed off.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on December 03, 2013, 03:06:49 PM
I just finished Season 6 of Burn Notice. I disagree with Grave. I thought it was good even if I didn't expect it to be the last episode of the season. It was a decent set up for Season 7. Of course it was nowhere near as good as Season 1's finale which is still my 2nd favorite live action tv finale. I liked this season overall. The first episode with AF in it and I believe the 2nd one, the one with the crazy cartel guy Jesse had to watch. I also liked seeing more of Loken, Pearce and my favorite actor from The Shield. And speaking of favorite episodes, my favorite Season 5 ones are the ep where Jesse's friend goes on a suicide mission and AF's first episode (99% because of another villain was in it but this helps immediately identify what episode I am referring too without the spoilers)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on December 04, 2013, 12:45:51 AM
NewsRadio's got me again.

I am obsessed with sitcom plots that begin with a new "someone from the outside" becomes an authority figure among a group of characters who know each other very well and then are sort of relationship obstacles for the outsider who eventually becomes "one of the family," etc. Though, I always want a little more conflict than we ever get. The Nanny is the perfect example of this. The first episode is the only one where there is a legitimate threat of her being fired and, so it's the only one where it means something when she takes a stand on something. Of course...strangely, that show was less laidback than NewsRadio (even though it's mostly about people eating and talking at the same time) but, again, by episode #2 or 3, there are almost no more honest conflicty plot points about how the new person is fitting in with the core group. I don't know what I'm trying to say, but whatever That is, I wish there were a little more of it in the ensemble sitcom.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 05, 2013, 07:27:02 AM
Zosia Mamet is quickly becoming my new crush, so I may or may not start watching Girls soon. I'll see when winter break starts.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 07, 2013, 06:59:49 PM
I'm almost done with episode 1 of Girls. If you can't stand the sight of anal sex, you may want to skip it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Nel_Annette on December 07, 2013, 07:37:39 PM
Really? o_O One of my most prudish friends is waaay into that show. Don't know how she'd get past some anal.  :lol:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Commode on December 07, 2013, 07:42:52 PM
A TV show called Girls that airs on HBO featuring anal sex.  Who woulda thunk it?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 07, 2013, 08:10:05 PM
I'm still only on the first episode, but it is funny, even if I can see how others find it to be grating. Just thought I'd make note of that, though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Commode on December 07, 2013, 08:22:20 PM
Well, if you can make it through The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, then I don't see why you couldn't make it through this.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on December 08, 2013, 07:54:51 PM
Quote from: Do They Know It's Christmas? on December 07, 2013, 07:42:52 PM
A TV show called Girls that airs on HBO featuring anal sex.  Who woulda thunk it?
"FOX turned into a hardcore sex channel so fast I hardly even noticed."
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 09, 2013, 08:38:16 PM
"Skyscraper" is playing in episode 8.

I am in this show for the long run. Also, Hanna came with her boyfriend just as Demi hit the high notes.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Nel_Annette on December 09, 2013, 08:55:14 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on December 09, 2013, 08:38:16 PM
"Skyscraper" is playing in episode 8.

I am in this show for the long run. Also, Hanna came with her boyfriend just as Demi hit the high notes.

You're really making this sound like the most high-end porn ever.  :thumbup:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 09, 2013, 09:11:06 PM
Quote from: Nel_Annette on December 09, 2013, 08:55:14 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on December 09, 2013, 08:38:16 PM
"Skyscraper" is playing in episode 8.

I am in this show for the long run. Also, Hanna came with her boyfriend just as Demi hit the high notes.

You're really making this sound like the most high-end porn ever.  :thumbup:
I forgot to mention when Hannah's parents fucked in the shower, and her dad fell out. Or when Shoshanna (aka Zosia) listens in on her Bohemian cousin banging a random guy on the street. Or how said Bohemian girl (Jessa) and Marine were making out with each other in some creeper they picked up in a bar's apartment.

Or... there's jokes here. Honest.  ;)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 10, 2013, 11:11:31 PM
I'm on season 2 of Girls now, but I also finished another one of my shows today.

(https://24.media.tumblr.com/7a7e8d36bbdde1614e33df8eb620e5cb/tumblr_mxmm5zVrJp1r6se0bo1_500.jpg)

Which had an ending that lived up to its reputation. I'm gonna miss seeing most of the show for the first time, and having the cast together.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on December 11, 2013, 11:18:16 PM
Just finished rewatching Lost. No matter what anyone says, to me, this is still the greatest show ever made.

I suppose that's an unpopular opinion on this site, by far.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 12, 2013, 09:50:27 AM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 11, 2013, 11:18:16 PM
I suppose that's an unpopular opinion on this site, by far.
Yeah, it really is.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on December 12, 2013, 12:25:33 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on December 12, 2013, 09:50:27 AM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 11, 2013, 11:18:16 PM
I suppose that's an unpopular opinion on this site, by far.
Yeah, it really is.

And I will never change it. Unless something incredible just connects with me the same way that Lost did. :D
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on December 12, 2013, 01:16:29 PM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 12, 2013, 12:25:33 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on December 12, 2013, 09:50:27 AM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 11, 2013, 11:18:16 PM
I suppose that's an unpopular opinion on this site, by far.
Yeah, it really is.

And I will never change it. Unless something incredible just connects with me the same way that Lost did. :D
:thumbup:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on December 12, 2013, 02:23:02 PM
Quote from: gunswordfist on December 12, 2013, 01:16:29 PM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 12, 2013, 12:25:33 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on December 12, 2013, 09:50:27 AM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 11, 2013, 11:18:16 PM
I suppose that's an unpopular opinion on this site, by far.
Yeah, it really is.

And I will never change it. Unless something incredible just connects with me the same way that Lost did. :D
:thumbup:

What's up, GSF?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on December 12, 2013, 03:53:52 PM
I was agreeing with you not worrying about sharing everyone else's opinion.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 12, 2013, 04:42:58 PM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 12, 2013, 12:25:33 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on December 12, 2013, 09:50:27 AM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 11, 2013, 11:18:16 PM
I suppose that's an unpopular opinion on this site, by far.
Yeah, it really is.

And I will never change it. Unless something incredible just connects with me the same way that Lost did. :D
Have ya seen The Wire?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Nel_Annette on December 12, 2013, 09:02:42 PM
First three seasons of Lost, minus Nikki and Paulo? Yeah, best show ever. Seasons 4-6? Lost me completely. Just disappointment after disappointment. Except for Keamy (awesome antagonist, even if just for one season) and Jacob's season 5 episode.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: GregX on December 12, 2013, 11:42:56 PM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 11, 2013, 11:18:16 PM
Just finished rewatching Lost. No matter what anyone says, to me, this is still the greatest show ever made.

I suppose that's an unpopular opinion on this site, by far.

Breaking Bad, dude.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on December 13, 2013, 12:23:12 AM
Quote from: gunswordfist on December 12, 2013, 03:53:52 PM
I was agreeing with you not worrying about sharing everyone else's opinion.

:thumbup:

Quote from: Avaitor on December 12, 2013, 04:42:58 PM
Have ya seen The Wire?

I have not. So I can't say much for it. But I really do mean that it would take a lot for something to top Lost for me. Mainly because I can't think of a central cast of any show that I cared about on the same level as the characters of Lost.

Quote from: Nel_Annette on December 12, 2013, 09:02:42 PM
First three seasons of Lost, minus Nikki and Paulo? Yeah, best show ever. Seasons 4-6? Lost me completely. Just disappointment after disappointment. Except for Keamy (awesome antagonist, even if just for one season) and Jacob's season 5 episode.

This might be better for me to say in the unpopular opinions thread, but I'll just do it here since we're already on the topic. Prepare for major Lost fanboying in this post. Here I go...

To start, I don't actually think Nikki and Paulo are that bad. I mean, they aren't good characters, and I'd call them the weakest characters on the show. But they didn't necessarily hurt the show for me. The reaction they got from fans was so bad that the writers scrapped their original ideas and just killed off the characters quickly, which ironically is what kept them from damaging the storyline to me.

Next, and I know I'm in the minority on this when it comes to Lost fans, but overall, I actually like the second half of the show more. Season 3 is the best in my mind, with the season 3 finale being the best episode of the series and ending with one of my favorite plot twists in any show ever. But I would say that, despite being great, season 1 is easily the weakest season of the show. I can get why people love it, and I might say it's the least flawed season (and on the flip side, I think season 3 is arguably the most flawed despite being the best in my mind). Season 1 certainly had a grip to it, a simple and primal feel to it, that brought in so many people. When the series began to get "convoluted", Lost dropped in ratings. But I actually think the craziness of season 3 onward is when Lost really got its own identity. I actually preferred that to the simple survival that the first season was all about. Not to mention, season 1 also starred some of the weaker characters (Shannon, Walt, etc.) and some of the show's absolute best characters (namely Ben, Juliet, and Desmond) weren't yet introduced). It had the rest of the great characters, of course, but they hadn't yet gotten extremely developed. When comparing the two simple, survival-based seasons that started the show, I greatly prefer season 2 to season 1. It cut out most of the weaker characters, introduced some of the best characters, developed the cast further, started the shift into the show Lost would ultimately become, and then there is the matter of the Others, man. In the first season, they were just the faceless, mysterious danger of the Island, and that was effective. But in season 2, man, they really got scary (though to be specific, I'd say this was the season 1 finale onward). They were still shrouded greatly in mystery, but the bits and pieces we knew of them made them really intimidating as the show's antagonist for a while (the bearded sea captain, the Others being the masters of the jungle, "This is our Island", and of course the eventual revelation that their primitive appearance was merely a facade). Also, season 2 was when the classic and well loved "Jack versus Locke, man of science versus man of faith" conflict took the center stage.

Now the reason I prefer the later seasons (or rather, seasons 3-6 over seasons 1-2) is because of many reasons. To start, and, ironically, I liked knowing more about the Others. Admittedly Tom, the sea captain who wore the fake beard, did feel a bit softened up once we saw more of the Others to the point where he was sometimes a pushover. But I gladly welcome replacing him with Ben, who is a phenomenal character. I thought it was cool seeing that the Others are an advanced civilization of people with ties all over the world. And I thought it was cool when we came to realize that, in theory, the Others are truly an organization for the good of mankind, and that like many things, whether they appear to be good or evil depends on who their leader is. The Others exist to protect the Island under Jacob, and to prevent the black smoke from ever escaping. But Ben used them for personal reasons, and for other things that, in the grand scheme of things, didn't really matter, such as pregnancy issues on the island. It's like the Church. The Church lives under the word of God, but they are also to blame for much bloodshed all across history.

But the main reason I like the later seasons is because, over time, my investment in the characters just grew. I really cared about everything they had to overcome on the Island. I loved seeing everything they had to go through in season 4 to finally escape the Island, and I liked the flash-forwards more than the flashbacks in general. As you said, Keamy was also a good villain and a terrible human being (probably the 3rd most terrible person on the show, after Locke's father and Jacob's black smoke brother). I also liked the characters introduced in this season. And the moment Ben allowed Keamy to murder Alex is a phenomenal moment of the show (way better than the incredibly anticlimactic and disappointing death of Danielle). Overall though, season 4 is my least favorite of the later seasons. But it still has some phenomenal moments, such as the phone call between Desmond and Penny (that moment, man), and Alex's death as I mentioned earlier.

Then there is season 5, which I could imagine being one of the lower tier seasons for most fans. To start, I really liked the romance between Sawyer and Juliet. Sawyer was my favorite character on the show, and Juliet was probably up there in my top 5. I just loved seeing them together, and it was nice knowing that they spent three years living happily together on the Island, probably the happiest three years of their lives. I'd say Sawyer and Juliet was my 2nd favorite pairing of the show, 2nd only to the obligatory Desmond and Penny romance. And it's funny because, for many years of the show, when the whole Jack, Kate, and Sawyer love triangle was happening, I always thought Kate and Sawyer made more sense together. Then when Juliet was introduced and we saw her grow close to Jack, I saw her as being the perfect companion for Jack, since I of course figured Kate was better off with Sawer. But after seasons 4 and 5, which firmly established Jack and Kate together, and then Sawyer and Juliet together, it was the complete opposite of what I imagine. And yet it ended up being perfect, I wouldn't have it any other way. And I also liked the time travel element of this season, with the characters going back in time to the Dharma and ultimately causing "the Incident" that lead to the creation of the Swan hatch, despite all their intent to stop that exact thing. The whole Jack and Kate dynamic was also solid, seeing them in love in season 4, and then having this figurative wall between them in season 5. Admittedly, season 5 does have what might be my least favorite episode of the show (the episode that details Locke's final days, which is well made but it just makes me depressed for so many reasons) but I love everything else about it, and even that episode was incredibly necessary for what came next. It also led to Jack becoming Locke's spiritual successor as the person who believed in the Island, which was such a fulfilling piece of character development. And then of course there's the "present day" world, of the black smoke impersonating Locke and manipulating Ben into killing Jacob. I liked that more than both the flashbacks of early episodes, as well as the flash-forwards of season 4.

Then you have season 6. And I know many people thought this was an underwhelming finale. I suppose there's somethin strange about the plot of Jacob and his brother. Maybe it was strange to take everything that had ever happened in the history of this show and narrow it down to two individuals. But I thought it was an interesting way to scale everything back to being smaller, and almost taking the show back to its roots by exploring the concept of good and evil and personifying them in two individuals, which was actually the original intent of the show. Perhaps Jacob and his brother weren't the most interesting characters, and this season didn't explain every mystery. But I didn't want every mystery to be explained. The mythology just served to enrich the setting and drive the story of the characters (even though I didn't expect or care to know why Walt was so special, I do have to admit it was probably bad planning for them to build up this child character who was obviously going to age at a faster rate than the adults, which is what ultimately led to them writing Walt out of the show). That's what Lost was about. It wasn't a show about mysteries. It was about the lives of these people who had been brought together. That's why I fell in love with it, and why I stated above that Lost has by far my favorite main cast in any show. To me, season 6 was a wonderful way to bring them all back together in the end. That's what season 6 was to me, and why I love it. And the mythology of it (such as the history of Jacob and his brother, and the revelation that the smoke monster was truly behind everything in the show despite appearing as a minor threat in seasons 1-4. In fact I have a feeling he planned on appearing as an unimportant entity who was always in the background before he could finally put into motion his plan of killing Jacob, all the while secretly driving the events of the story until that exact moment where Ben murdered Jacob. Sure, I know this wasn't the original plan for the writers as the smoke monster was intended as the Island's security system for the majority of the show, but I think this is a retcon that really works. It all goes back to that cloud of black smoke that terrified the survivors and the audience in the very first episode), and the whole system of the Island being the "light" and essentially the most important place in the entire world, just served to enrich that character experience.

---

---

---

Okay, so I really fanboy'd above, didn't I? Like... to the point where I started rambling on things that you didn't even begin to address (that whole comparison between season 1 and season 2 was completely unnecessary, I admit :P). Well, like I said above, I just really love this show, which is a fact that I don't think was even particularly known by you guys until today. Maybe I just wanted an excuse to babble about Lost. You don't even have to read that if you don't want to. If you did, hopefully the overall point I was trying to make was hidden somewhere in there. When it comes to Lost, I get so mushy, but I guess that's just proof of how by how much it's my favorite show. :sweat:

tl;dr version: I like the later seasons of Lost more than the earlier ones because I enjoy the character struggles of them more than the more survival-based dangers of the early seasons. And I wasn't disappointed by seasons 4-6. I also like the insane mythology over the more simple, "sort of" realistic island of the first season. From favorite to least favorite, I rank the seasons like this:
Season 3 >/= Season 5 > Season 6 > Season 2 > Season 4 > Season 1

But in my mind, all six seasons are great and mean something special to me.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on December 13, 2013, 12:28:20 AM
The Wire, Talon. Watch that.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on December 13, 2013, 12:29:55 AM
I was hoping that the post following my wall of text would be a single line. You didn't disappoint, good sir.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on December 13, 2013, 01:05:40 AM
Prison Break, Dr. Watch that.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on December 13, 2013, 01:08:50 AM
Thirding The Wire.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on December 13, 2013, 01:10:23 AM
Quote from: gunswordfist on December 13, 2013, 01:05:40 AM
Prison Break, Dr. Watch that.
But I tried it. It was interesting, but then they broke out of the prison and it got weird after that.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on December 13, 2013, 01:17:28 AM
Sounds like a true story.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on December 13, 2013, 01:21:26 AM
Sounds like someone trying to get off from watching The Wire.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on December 13, 2013, 01:24:45 AM
I'll get to it...next year. :> *remembers next year is in a few weeks*

I'll get to it...next next year.  :>
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on December 13, 2013, 09:25:47 AM
Seconding Breaking Bad.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 13, 2013, 10:10:37 AM
Yeah, Prison Break seems like a show that should have ended a little after they actually did break out of prison.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on December 13, 2013, 12:28:16 PM
Isn't YYH: Ghost Files also a bit of a weird name, considering Yusuke is only a ghost for a few episodes?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on December 13, 2013, 02:04:36 PM
Aren't a lot of the demons technically ghosts?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 13, 2013, 04:16:25 PM
Season 2 of Girls had a lot of potential, especially in the middle, but the last couple of episodes shat it right into the toilet.

I'll still stick around for season 3, but ugh.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 20, 2013, 07:44:40 PM
In other news, I finished The West Wing today. Man, while I thought the last season was more exciting than the previous few, I didn't realize how empty it felt on the whole now that I'm done. On the one hand, focusing on the Santos campaign was a necessary idea and gave the show a bit of a new identity that it needed at this point, but there just wasn't enough time with Bartlet. The most screentime he seemed to have was when he was grieving Leo's death, but I still feel that he and Abby could have handled more.

Still, the writing was more consistent here than in the other Sorkin-less years, and I do very much like both Santos and Vinick. I also fully supported both Josh and Donna's advancement over the course of the season. overall, it was a solid if imperfect final season to a solid if imperfect show.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: GregX on December 30, 2013, 09:22:29 PM
So, turns out President Obama has the same taste in television that I do.

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/30/us/obamas-tv-picks-anything-edgy-with-hints-of-reality.html?hp&_r=1&
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 30, 2013, 11:39:43 PM
You gotta give a president whose favorite show is The Wire some credit.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on December 31, 2013, 11:07:36 AM
Quote from: gunswordfist on December 13, 2013, 02:04:36 PMAren't a lot of the demons technically ghosts?
In mythology or animation?

I always thought Rumpelstiltskin was a demon. Depending upon how gnarly he was in folklore text.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 31, 2013, 10:42:21 PM
I'm finishing Enlightened now, and wow, I think this show is just as good as The Wire.

I'm serious. There are few pieces of entertainment which combine intelligent humor, heartbreaking drama, and character analysis as well as this. It's a tragedy that it ended with only two seasons, but wow, every episode is a winner.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on January 05, 2014, 11:55:52 AM
I just finished Breaking Bad and now that it's over I can say with absolute certainty that this is one of the greatest TV-shows I've seen in my life. I found the ending to be very satisfying, I especially liked the fact that Jesse
Spoiler
got to kill Todd, seriously fuck that guy
[close]
.

Quote from: Avaitor on December 31, 2013, 10:42:21 PM
I'm finishing Enlightened now, and wow, I think this show is just as good as The Wire.

I'm serious. There are few pieces of entertainment which combine intelligent humor, heartbreaking drama, and character analysis as well as this. It's a tragedy that it ended with only two seasons, but wow, every episode is a winner.

Never heard of this show before, but as good as The Wire? I'll have to check it out.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 05, 2014, 12:03:47 PM
Quote from: Pharass on January 05, 2014, 11:55:52 AM
I just finished Breaking Bad and now that it's over I can say with absolute certainty that this is one of the greatest TV-shows I've seen in my life. I found the ending to be very satisfying, I especially liked the fact that Jesse
Spoiler
got to kill Todd, seriously fuck that guy
[close]
.
Spoiler
I personally like how Jesse's murder of Todd reflected Walt's of Krazy 8. I feel like that was one more final reminder of how far Jesse had come since the series started, and whether or not he could come out alright.

Also, it's worth noting that Aaron Paul basically requested that he got to kill Todd. I'm not sure if it was already in the script or not, but Paul was really hoping he could do it haha.
[close]

Quote from: Pharass on January 05, 2014, 11:55:52 AM
Quote from: Avaitor on December 31, 2013, 10:42:21 PM
I'm finishing Enlightened now, and wow, I think this show is just as good as The Wire.

I'm serious. There are few pieces of entertainment which combine intelligent humor, heartbreaking drama, and character analysis as well as this. It's a tragedy that it ended with only two seasons, but wow, every episode is a winner.

Never heard of this show before, but as good as The Wire? I'll have to check it out.
It's only 2 seasons long, and it isn't the kind of show which grabs you instantly, but Enlightened is the necessary opposite to the anti-hero subgenre that's been impacting TV since The Sopranos. Very funny, very heartbreaking, unlike anything else I've seen.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 08, 2014, 10:53:26 AM
As of now, I'm adding in Seinfeld to my list of other comedies I've decided to watch all the way through, even if I'm not consistent with most of them. And after just finishing the first season, I can see why it isn't that popular with fans. Jerry and Larry still knock out some great lines, but they don't really know how to pace a story along yet, and while shades of the characters are already there, they aren't fully defined yet.

Kramer especially is just there, mainly since it seems like they have no idea how to add him into the plots yet.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Nel_Annette on January 10, 2014, 08:28:33 PM
Marathoning Community Season 4 with my buddy. Besides all the negative hype, we're liking it as much as the first three seasons.

Also, Alison Brie.  :swoon:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 17, 2014, 04:23:12 PM
I finally got around to starting up The Sopranos. I have to admit, watching the first couple of episodes got me to think that while the show is still strong, it has aged in comparison to Mad Men, Breaking Bad, and even The Wire (I say "even" in its case since its only 3 years younger), but then I hit "College", which is the show's first perfect episode. Alright, now I'm getting it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 17, 2014, 10:26:26 PM
One of the few shitty things about watching a great show like Breaking Bad is that any show not on the same ridiculously high level of quality as it will seem like utter crap in comparison (at least initially). Thus when I started watching Dexter on Netflix, I wasn't too impressed with it (the first few episodes were shit, IMO, and even though it got a bit better later on, season 1 was mostly "eh"). With the 2nd season, though, the show has been slowly growing on me.

I also plan to start watching Mad Men later on, as well. Unfortunately, my current APC rotation has me so insanely busy that I hardly have the time to watch much of anything, so I can only manage to keep up with a single show at a time, right now.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 22, 2014, 10:23:56 PM
I finished season 1 of The Sopranos tonight, and eh, there was a bit of a rough spot a little past the halfway mark. Two pretty weak episodes in a row- one was about how Meadow's soccer coach apparently had a fling with one of her teammates, which forced Tony to decide whether or not he should take action on him. While that moral question is strong, the execution almost comes off like an after school special, which is disappointing considering the quality of the writing and direction otherwise on the show. There's also a thing about how Uncle Junior likes to give rather than receive oral, and I don't see why this is an issue. What's wrong with eating out? This came off as bullshit sexism to me. The next episode wasn't much better, where Chris and his girlfriend give her ex's band some session time, thanks to a rapper who has a thing for her. There's some good bits in the studio with Chris and the singer, but there isn't much purpose to the episode, and the rapper feels kind of... poorly written for a black character. From what I can tell, race is not one of the show's strong points.

But the last string of episodes? Straight ace, all the way through. It gives me enough confidence to watch the rest of the show just fine. I have the next two seasons on hand, which I'll get to very soon.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 30, 2014, 10:05:15 PM
I'm working on season 2 of The Sopranos now, but I just finished a show I've been watching on and off for a while now- All in the Family.

The last season is pretty skippable, since without the Stivics it's pretty flat, and little Stephanie doesn't add that much, but it still has its moments even then. The previous season was strangely one of the stronger ones though, which is weird because the previous few were falling just around average, far from its peak in seasons 2 and 3. Ultimately, the show just doesn't have characters as strong as on Mary Tyler Moore or M*A*S*H or Taxi, not to mention how dated a lot of it intentionally is, but there is some fantastic sitcom writing which makes the show worth discovering anyway. Ultimately though, I'm glad I decided to watch it all the way through, instead of cherry picking various episodes I remember or have read about.

and no, I'm not going to watch Archie Bunker's Place. At least not all of it. But there are a couple of episodes I think that I should see.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on February 08, 2014, 12:33:53 AM
I had no clue Jay Leno just retired. I haven't seen him in like...years. A lot bigger than the last time I saw him. Almost unrecognizable. That goodbye was pretty sad to watch.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Commode on February 08, 2014, 01:02:32 AM
I watched that show earlier today, for the first time since at least 2009 when he quit the first time.  His speech at the end was touching, the video with the celebs giving advice on what he should do next was cute, and the song bit with all the surprise guests was cool, but everything else was super boring.  No wonder Jay's going out, he can't even make his last show interesting.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on February 08, 2014, 01:32:13 AM
Quote from: Comeau on February 08, 2014, 01:02:32 AM
I watched that show earlier today, for the first time since at least 2009 when he quit the first time.  His speech at the end was touching, the video with the celebs giving advice on what he should do next was cute, and the song bit with all the surprise guests was cool, but everything else was super boring.  No wonder Jay's going out, he can't even make his last show interesting.
That's a mean 16 100th post. :sly:

I wish I saw it live...but I had no clue. I'm completely out of touch with network television and then some. I did watch Conan's last episode on whatever he show was called before he got his self-titled show though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on February 08, 2014, 04:45:38 PM
Randomly going through old Nostalgia Critic episodes I've never watched. And there seem to be a lot.

He really is incredibly funny. More often than I usually give him credit for. So far, I've finally watched his The Lost World: Jurassic Park and Once Upon a Forest reviews. (Before winding up in a strange vacuum of crossover videos he posted on his channel with Phelous, Film Brain, Linkara, Cinema Snob, Spoony, Benzai, etc. Yet, of course, none of them were with him.)

Oh, and I've been mainlining Phelous videos like a freakin' addict. In the process of watching both and some other random Blippers (The Bunny Perspective, Benzai, Oancitizen, Folding Ideas, Blood Splattered Cinema, Roses again, Cinema Snob, That Blockbuster Chick, Musical Hell, The Absent Commentator, Count Jackula, and xxJessWorldxx), I've realized a LOT of people are affected by the motherfucking "This Episode Will Not Play" bullshit from Blip that it's been a long time (before a few weeks ago) since I've come across and was very happy that it hadn't been showing up so often. Now, it's everywhere.

That being said, now Oancitizen's Jubilee episode will play again. Don't know why I thought to check it again but that was a longtime victim of the Will Not Play screen.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 11, 2014, 04:12:50 PM
I like how on the place I'm watching NewsRadio on, they don't have the last season uploaded. They're literally saying that I should just stop before Phil dies.

But yeah, just watched the pilot, which was cute, but nothing earth-shattering compared to Seinfeld or Frasier. Since the show was never a big hit and wasn't syndicated much, this is new to me, so I'm hoping that I really get into it soon.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on February 11, 2014, 06:51:51 PM
It's one of my favorite sitcoms. Phil Hartman totally steals the show, though. Just like he did in everything he was in.

I don't think I've ever bothered with the last season. I heard it was good, but I just don't have the motivation to watch it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on February 11, 2014, 10:29:14 PM
ApocalypticHybrid had the whole show uploaded to YouTube and I watched it all on there. When Netflix took it down. So, I've seen the 5th season. And the show is by far one of my favorites, I'll bet I've mentioned it here before.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 12, 2014, 09:50:34 AM
I'll try to find the fifth season then. I do like Jon Lovitz, after all.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on February 12, 2014, 06:12:20 PM
I think it's better than the Lauren Graham episodes from Season 4. She... almost killed that show for me. I know to blame her whole storyline rather than the actress but, I can't remember the last time I nearly clicked off a show I was really digging until a new character came along.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 12, 2014, 10:38:50 PM
I already have a fun game I like to play when I watch NewsRadio. I call it "Bill or Buck", as I try to decide which line from Stephen Root is delivered like Bill Dauterive or Buck Strickland.

But yeah, I'm almost done with season 1. Which I guess isn't too special, since it's only 7 episodes, but I am rather liking it so far.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on February 15, 2014, 09:37:35 AM
Just re-watched Some Jerk with a Camera's ABC Goes to Walt Disney World thing... I don't know if anyone else on the board has talked about it but...

you guys do know about this guy, right?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 15, 2014, 02:21:28 PM
I don't!

Does he talk about the Modern Family Disneyland episode, or just stick to the 90's shows?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on February 15, 2014, 04:53:44 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on February 15, 2014, 02:21:28 PMI don't!
You realize at this point, I must ask: are you pulling my leg?

You never have before. But, I have to assume everyone's heard of this guy. I mean... when I watched the Full House one, I watched it twice in a row because I was laughing so hard, I missed 35% of what he said... you really don't know about this guy?

Anyway, he's a "Nostalgia Critic" internet type reviewer who reviews Disneyland & Disney World themed attractions, etc. He doesn't have many episodes yet but he's been working for about 3 years now and is renowned for just packing a ton of info into his episodes. This guy might be one of the King Disney Nerds, as far as the parks are concerned. I don't know- but he knows about all the inaccuracies of the TV shows. Anyway, he did an amazing 7-part series from May last year that just wrapped up last month on the ABC sitcoms of the 90's that all went to Disney World (there were 6 shows from... '95 or '96 to 1998) and he reviews them all and...

Best of all, he's a real fan but a real adult too. He doesn't censor himself in any way. Warning: he screams a lot but, get used to it- this guy is hilarious. (At least with these episodes, the ones I bothered to watch. I find his first "season" to be a bit harder to sit through.) Anyway,

Here are all 7 parts
Intro: http://blip.tv/some-jerk-with-a-camera/abc-goes-to-disney-world-6592457
Full House: http://blip.tv/some-jerk-with-a-camera/full-house-goes-to-disney-world-6595984
Family Matters: http://blip.tv/some-jerk-with-a-camera/family-matters-goes-to-disney-world-6633674
Roseanne: http://blip.tv/some-jerk-with-a-camera/roseanne-goes-to-disney-world-6638312
Step by Step: http://blip.tv/some-jerk-with-a-camera/step-by-step-goes-to-disney-world-6695251
Boy Meets World: http://blip.tv/some-jerk-with-a-camera/boy-meets-world-meets-disney-world-6700232
Sabrina, the Teenage Witch: http://blip.tv/some-jerk-with-a-camera/sabrina-the-teenage-witch-goes-to-disney-world-6714751

He's mentioned in one of the videos that there's an entire other series for Disney-land and that he will probably be reviewing it this year.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 15, 2014, 05:08:31 PM
Oh wow! I'm definitely going to watch these soon. Thanks!

Whoa, he used "I Am the Slime"
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 16, 2014, 01:56:50 PM
"The Gang Accidentally Burns Down EPCOT" must become a Sunny episode. My god.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on February 22, 2014, 12:05:51 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on February 15, 2014, 05:08:31 PMOh wow! I'm definitely going to watch these soon. Thanks!
:thumbup:


I've been wanting to go start Dinosaurs, just to see if there's any chance it might live up to the nostalgia I had for it... which actually isn't very much, it's one of those shows you watched because there was "something about it" you liked that you never put your finger on. Anyway, point: I've rewatched pilot episodes for a lot of shows that I liked when I was younger and a lot of them aren't so good... this show had one hell of a pilot episode / first episode / I'm ready to assume this was the first episode the creators / studios actually watched. I mean, it seems pretty lame at first- nothing about it is especially original. Earl spends a lot of time complaining about how the father gets the short end of the stick and whenever I see that kind of thing, there's often a distinct lack of empathy for other characters, etc. This might not fix that problem in the home and family plot but it's just surprising how little this show hinges on Flintstones: The Movie-isms. I'm willing to keep watching to see if Mrs. Sinclair becomes a more interesting character but I love Earl already.

Best of all was the scene of Earl talking to the animal he and his wife almost cooked and ate for dinner before he ran away. They meet up in the forest when Earl storms out of the house and I don't remember the character's name (nice job there, ace) but this is why I hate Meet the Feebles. Okay, that probably doesn't make any sense but the animal starts talking about how Earl's job was to destroy his home and family (the dinner-animal's) and... it's the first time since The Muppet Movie that I wanted to actually hug a puppet. And probably the only time since I was 13. Anyway, huge points for sincerely likable characters. The show is also extremely well-shot, the eyes of the puppets / animatronics (whatever) actually give off a lot of personality and the show is shot so you feel what they're saying like they're not puppets at all. Also, the baby is awesome.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 27, 2014, 01:22:30 PM
The NewsRadio in the future episode is just like the Kenan & Kel one- dumb, obvious, and wholly forgettable. I think season 3 has been the best one yet, but this is a dud.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on February 27, 2014, 05:02:13 PM
Has anyone ever seen Grimm?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 27, 2014, 05:30:15 PM
I haven't, but I'm slightly curious 'cause of David Greenwalt. I hear that it's okay.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on February 27, 2014, 05:48:58 PM
The first season is okay. It doesn't get off to a good start. The first few episodes are really mediocre. But it picks up after that. Season 2 was great. Season 3 is currently going just as well if not better.

Once it found its legs, it's been a fun show. The CGI is kind of weak, though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on March 01, 2014, 09:40:12 AM
Quote from: Avaitor on February 27, 2014, 01:22:30 PMThe NewsRadio in the future episode is just like the Kenan & Kel one- dumb, obvious, and wholly forgettable. I think season 3 has been the best one yet, but this is a dud.
Agreed.

(Other than Joe taking his shirt off again.)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 02, 2014, 05:17:18 PM
"Bill! I'm fixin' for another homoerotic adventure on the Big Muddy!"

Best scene ever.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on March 06, 2014, 10:59:24 AM
Recently bought the first season of The Sandbaggers and am now busy working my way through it. It's a great espionage-series in the vein of Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy. Roy Marsden is great as Neil Burnside, the head of the eponymous special-operations sector, who is about as cold-hearted a bastard as I've seen on TV and the rest of the cast does a fine job as well.
Unfortunately the picture quality on the DVDs is not the best, plus they lack subtitles, something I personally consider a huge minus.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 06, 2014, 10:19:25 PM
I just finished season 4 of NewsRadio, but I think I'm going to do some other things before I get to the last season. Like finally see Blackadder.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 07, 2014, 10:49:04 PM
But in a change of pace, the opening to tonight's Hannibal. Holy shit. How did they get away with this on broadcast?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Grave on March 16, 2014, 02:45:02 PM
Watching NCIS: LA. This is some good stuff. There's not a lot on tv I watch these days especially since Burn Notice ended, but this is probably the next best show I've seen since BN.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 16, 2014, 11:32:59 PM
Blackadder is just the kind of comedy I love. Smart, well-defined, funny from start to finish. The last season is probably the best, too.

Now I'm going to decide if I should rewatch Spaced or try to catch up with Bob's Burgers.

Edit: The coin says Bob's Burgers
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 28, 2014, 09:00:06 PM
Let's talk about music! I'm going to make a quick list of some of my favorite uses of music in various television series, linked with the songs in question. I won't link to the actual scenes, because just like your favorite part in a song, you can't just skip to it- you have to earn your way through.

Mad Men (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuNrlecJCNA)- I HAVE to start out here. It's no secret that The Beatles are very particular about their music rights, and Mad Men is one of the few shows which was allowed the opportunity to use one of their songs in an episode. And they don't waste it.. This is portrayed in a fascinating sequence that is typically shot with a hyper-detailed eye, as per usual for the show, as it also keeps true to the characters.

Parks and Recreation (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4WBWov6nd6E)- This song was used during a great wide shot at the end of a pivotal season 3 episode, revealing the successful results of a make it or break it endeavor in Leslie's career. I wouldn't put this among my favorite Tom Petty songs by a wide margin, but it's a wonderful usage, and might be among the show's most important moments. They even went as far as to recreate a similar shot earlier this season with a different Petty song used, and it worked then as well!

The West Wing (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wu4oy1IRTh8)- Oh, The West Wing. I wish you were as consistent as your promising first 2 seasons led me to believe you would be, but before the Sorkin-ness of it all killed the early momentum, and it took a while for the show to recover after losing him, the series made a fantastic finale in season 2, question the beliefs of its liberal's liberal of a president. This sequence takes the full 7 minutes of the song to its advantage, as we go through each of his decisions before stepping up to the podium and altar the course of the series. Meanwhile, the camera remains crisper than it ever would during the show's run, from the episode's titular cathedrals to the press room. The following season, the show would attempt to recreate the magic of this sequence in a different manner, accompanied by Jeff Buckley's "Hallelujah", and while that was also well done, it just couldn't compete here.

Taxi (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZdiXvDU4P0)- Now, I won't be able to talk about too many classic TV series on this list for a reason- at least compared to today's shows, older series just didn't use licensed songs all that much, and when they did, they weren't used as effectively as they would be in a show like Breaking Bad or The Sopranos. But there was definitely a Billy Joel song played in a particular episode of Taxi (even if the DVDs cut it out, but finding a print with the original track online sure helps things), and like the show itself, it's used in a sharp, yet surprisingly dark way. This episode is mostly atypical, taking away Alex and Elaine, the show's will they/won't they duo, away from New York and into Vienna, and has them briefly hook up, only to never seemingly do so again in the series' run. Reading the lyrics of the song, while it doesn't entirely fit the context of the episode or the characters, it is a sharp mood piece in which Joel ponders the rest of one's life, giving somewhat vague answers, and in some way speaks to Alex and Elaine here, as well as the audience, suggesting that maybe we shouldn't have to question these things so frequently.

How I Met Your Mother (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pte3Jg-2Ax4)- And of course I have a HIMYM choice. And to be fair, the show has always had a good sense of music choices, alternating between indie underdogs to agreeable oldies which fit the bill for what needs to be told (and here's another, more recent example from the show (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UnPMoAb4y8U), which worked wonderfully, especially when you remember that this is Ted's favorite artist). But this Big Star classic was pulled out during one of the show's most daring and iconic moments- the two minute date. Of course, it goes over 2 minutes, as does the song, but its usage is still perfect, as it does sell the idea that Ted's romantic side is double-edged. His spontaneity is what impresses the women he dates, but ultimately what has pulled him away from a true commitment. Until the mother, that is. One key element we've been learning about their relationship this year is that he doesn't need to retrieve a blue French horn or woo her in 2 and a half minutes to win her over. All Ted has to do is... just care. Still, I can't get over the perfect choice in music here.

The Sopranos (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPdShWevWoU)- I still have one more season to go, and I'm sure there'll be even more great choices on the show until then, but as a set-up to what is going to be the rest of this rough series? Perfect. And there are also some keen choices from Italian culture that I could go with, but I'll just go with Sepinwall's favorite track here. :P

The Wire (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIfdYs8WErM)- Now here's another show with fantastic music choices, but this is probably the first one that really spoke to me (which shouldn't be a surprise to you guys), and it also came from the first episode to REALLY wow me. The way it leads into Freamon's wonderfully written talk to McNulty is also just perfect.

And I would be remiss to not leave this here as well. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TOZHwWFjb30) ;)

The Americans (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MT7W8xJFl_g)- TUSK!
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on April 15, 2014, 11:58:20 PM
Mtv's The Real World has gotten me again. Someone uploaded the entire 2nd season. (Los Angeles, featuring Jon the country singer.) The only one I think is entirely on YouTube. But, I don't feel guilty for it. The first 3 or 4 seasons are still damn fine television. Since the series was actually defined more by its humor, the quirkiness of the cast and the houses, and the surreal situational value than by the fights. Until we got to Miami.

Also, holy shit, there are TWO MAJOR horror genre parallels to this season of the show. One of the cast members (Beth A., the gay woman who befriended Glen) was literally a production assistant on Phantasm III. Another, Jon (the country singer), actually goes to a meeting at Roger Corman's offices. He doesn't talk to Roger, but to Mike Elliot- a major producer and he also had a bit part acting in one of the films that made my Top 100 Horror Films list, Sorority House Massacre II (which is on Netflix: Watch Instant by the way).


Quote from: Avaitor on March 28, 2014, 09:00:06 PMTaxi (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZdiXvDU4P0)- Now, I won't be able to talk about too many classic TV series on this list for a reason- at least compared to today's shows, older series just didn't use licensed songs all that much, and when they did, they weren't used as effectively as they would be in a show like Breaking Bad or The Sopranos. But there was definitely a Billy Joel song played in a particular episode of Taxi (even if the DVDs cut it out, but finding a print with the original track online sure helps things), and like the show itself, it's used in a sharp, yet surprisingly dark way. This episode is mostly atypical, taking away Alex and Elaine, the show's will they/won't they duo, away from New York and into Vienna, and has them briefly hook up, only to never seemingly do so again in the series' run. Reading the lyrics of the song, while it doesn't entirely fit the context of the episode or the characters, it is a sharp mood piece in which Joel ponders the rest of one's life, giving somewhat vague answers, and in some way speaks to Alex and Elaine here, as well as the audience, suggesting that maybe we shouldn't have to question these things so frequently.
I'm getting the itch to revisit. Big time. But I'm still missing seasons 4 and 5. (I think that's when it ended.)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 16, 2014, 02:18:24 PM
Quote from: No-Personality on April 15, 2014, 11:58:20 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on March 28, 2014, 09:00:06 PMTaxi (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZdiXvDU4P0)- Now, I won't be able to talk about too many classic TV series on this list for a reason- at least compared to today's shows, older series just didn't use licensed songs all that much, and when they did, they weren't used as effectively as they would be in a show like Breaking Bad or The Sopranos. But there was definitely a Billy Joel song played in a particular episode of Taxi (even if the DVDs cut it out, but finding a print with the original track online sure helps things), and like the show itself, it's used in a sharp, yet surprisingly dark way. This episode is mostly atypical, taking away Alex and Elaine, the show's will they/won't they duo, away from New York and into Vienna, and has them briefly hook up, only to never seemingly do so again in the series' run. Reading the lyrics of the song, while it doesn't entirely fit the context of the episode or the characters, it is a sharp mood piece in which Joel ponders the rest of one's life, giving somewhat vague answers, and in some way speaks to Alex and Elaine here, as well as the audience, suggesting that maybe we shouldn't have to question these things so frequently.
I'm getting the itch to revisit. Big time. But I'm still missing seasons 4 and 5. (I think that's when it ended.)
Yep! From what I recall, the last season wasn't too great, but it was a last-minute renewal on another network, mostly done to help the show get to syndication numbers. Plus they did lose some of the show's most important people to work on Cheers instead, which started at the same time.

And in other awesome TV news, The Americans is renewed. (http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2014/04/16/the-americans-renewed-for-season-3-by-fx/254643/) Hell yes.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on April 19, 2014, 12:32:27 PM
This season of Community ended rather lamely. It's neat how they milked the "Save Greendale" thing for two+ seasons, but it's gotten old, and while funny, the season finale felt the least satisfying and conclusive than any of the previous ones. Overall, I did love the season though. It's a marked step up over the last, though I wouldn't say it's as good as the first three seasons. Still, there were some great episodes in this one, like "Geothermal Escapism" and "App Development and Condiments," that were as good as some of the shows finer half-hours. I wouldn't mind the series ending here, but of course I'd like to see a sixth season and movie.  ;) Community quickly became essential viewing for me again this season after my interest in it was dissolved in the first few episodes of season 4, and though things won't be the same without Troy and Pierce, it's still such a fun show to watch, and I'd always love more of it (provided Dan Harmon is in charge, of course).

Speaking of Dan Harmon, Rick and Morty's first season was hilarious and awesome and cemented it as the best show on [adult swim] right now. The wait for season 2 is going to be killer.

As for Parks and Recreation, I've been enjoying the last few episodes, the latest episode being the hardest I've laughed at the show in a good while. The development that Ben and Leslie are having triplets is interesting, to say the least. I'm curious to see where they'll take that.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 19, 2014, 01:22:14 PM
I find it fascinating that people are complaining about how a sitcom character having triplets is so unoriginal. Only two example have been mentioned of this happening, and while I don't remember every single thing about Friends, I'm 90% sure that they didn't keep all the kids, and I didn't know that anyone under the age of 50 cares about My Three Sons.

I haven't been liking this season of Parks much at all, but I think that's a good reveal. But I really do hope that Leslie and Ben take this as an opportunity to leave Pawnee and take the job in Chicago. The longer the show goes on, the more apparent it becomes that this is an awful town and that they deserve better.

I did like this season of Community though, but I don't think this has been one of its best. Even with Harmon back, it's still a show in its fifth season, and it does feel like they've been running out of things to tell. I also really miss Troy, since he basically was the heart of the show. But I can't be too harsh on it, since there have been some great episodes, and even the weakest have had some great jokes.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: GregX on April 19, 2014, 03:08:56 PM
I'm three episodes into "House of Cards" on Netflix. Terrific series.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 22, 2014, 10:08:45 PM
I was watching WKRP in Cincinnati on Antenna TV the other night, and I caught an episode where the station was nursing a "hot new punk act" for a concert they were sponsoring. The funny thing is that they were trying to build these guys up as Sex Pistols clones, but their actual music sounds like third-rate Bad Company knock-offs.

I actually looked them up, and apparently the band that was featured here were on Swan Song, so that's an apt comparison. It's funny that American network TV was so afraid of getting a punk band for primetime that they got a band which was almost literally the exact opposite of the movement to play the part.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 25, 2014, 03:12:17 PM
Alright, so the next season of Parks is going to be a time jump. That... has the potential to be really awesome, actually. I'm all for it.

If I had to do rankings for my 3 go-to comedies this season like I've done before, I'd give Community an 8, and both HIMYM and Parks a 7. I wanted to give the former an 8 and the latter a 6, but the last episodes for both made me rethink those decisions. Now all we need is a confirmed renewal for Community, and it's all good.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on April 25, 2014, 04:00:20 PM
I guess I'd barely give Community an 8, myself. It was a pretty good season, but not many episodes made much of an impression on me, compared to the first three seasons. I'd give HIMYM a 7 because, while the finale was terrible, it was a mostly decent season otherwise, and I'd give P&R a 6 because though there was no really bad episodes, it was kinda boring for most of the season and didn't become interesting to watch again until the last few weeks. I must say, this wasn't one of my more favorite years for the live-action comedies I keep up with. Hopefully Community and P&R are stronger next season (assuming the former even gets renewed).
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on April 25, 2014, 04:04:26 PM
Is Community at 100 episodes yet? If not, they'll renew it just for that.

Reruns = money in the pocket.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on April 25, 2014, 04:07:00 PM
It has 97 episodes right now, so it's almost there.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 25, 2014, 04:21:49 PM
Sony is considering making a sixth season even if NBC doesn't pick it up, so it might go straight to DVD or Hulu.

And I guess if NBC does renew it (pretty much every other comedy they try never catches on. Community and Parks get tiny ratings, but they do relatively better than just about any new show they try out, which is why they keep on getting renewed. This season was pretty bad for Community in the ratings, though), Sony will try to give it the movie too.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 26, 2014, 11:16:31 PM
I'm gonna move P&R back to a 6 after all. I just remembered Craig's existence. I really hate Craig. But I will admit that the show got some of its energy back when Andy returned after his hiatus.

As for HIMYM, man, I really did like a lot of this season. I will never stop praising Cristin Milioti as Tracy, and just about all of her episodes were winners. Even some of the ones without her were pretty good, too. But besides the finale, there were some weird decisions made throughout. One that bugs me in particular is when Marshall goes and decks the Captain, since he believed that Lily cheated with him. Marshall would never do that.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on April 30, 2014, 04:59:22 PM
So, my cousin just gave me his login info for HBO GO, which means that I can FINALLY start watching Game of Thrones. I was planning on reading the books first, but now that I have immediate access to the show, I might as well get on that.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on April 30, 2014, 05:06:03 PM
I still need to watch the second and third seasons. That's my priority tv-wise once summertime comes around. Well, that and finishing Breaking Bad. And The Wire...
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 30, 2014, 05:22:42 PM
Don't forget The Wire and The Sopranos as well, EK.

Oh, and Band of Brothers. I've been watching that on and off with the AV Club, and it's hella.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on April 30, 2014, 07:23:09 PM
The Wire is next on my list after catching up to GOT, and then The Sopranos.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 02, 2014, 08:39:03 PM
Speaking of the Sopranos, I just finished it.

I said before that I saw how someone can prefer it to the Wire, even though I personally wouldn't, and I stand by that. One key difference between the two is that if one story in your average Wire episode didn't appeal to you, there's going to be at least 3 or 4 that will instead (although that statistic became less in the show's favor during the last season). With the Sopranos, either it's all mostly good or it's mostly not. Rarely ever in between.

But when it's good, damn if it isn't some of the best TV ever made. The last season did meander in some points, but I found it satisfying overall.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on May 03, 2014, 01:09:40 AM
I just finished season 1 of Game of Thrones. Excellent show. It's too bad that my favorite character up to this point had to be killed off before the end of the season, but I suppose I should probably get used to that sort of thing with this series.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 03, 2014, 12:07:24 PM
Spoiler
Ned's death is akin to Jenny Calender's. The kiddy gloves were already off, but now they're totally burned, and no one is safe.
[close]
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on May 03, 2014, 12:31:59 PM
I hope you don't mind, but I edited that into a spoiler tag for you.

But, yeah, now that a main character has died, you really get the feeling that anything goes in this series. I still think that he'll remain to be my favorite character for quite a while in the same way that Doyle was my favorite character on Angel for a long time despite only being in season 1 of the show.

That said, of the characters still currently alive as of season 2, my 2nd place would have to be a toss-up between Tyrion and Jon Snow.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on May 06, 2014, 11:37:02 PM
Just finished season 2, and damn is that a cliffhanger way to go out on that season. I can't wait to see how all of this culminates into the events of season 3. I'd like to hope that Joffrey gets his comeuppance, but that's probably not going to happen anytime soon because this show just loves it's villains far too much.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 07, 2014, 12:48:17 PM
Well just keep watching. :)

Season 2's penultimate episode is easily among my favorites. Martin chose well to focus his attention to the Battle of Blackwater Bay, and made it even more exciting than in the novel.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on May 07, 2014, 01:05:28 PM
That battle really reminds me of the battle at Helms Deep from TLOTR,  just in terms of the vibe of a kingdom defending a wall of that magnitude.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 07, 2014, 01:21:31 PM
Oh yeah, I definitely see that. Martin doesn't like ASOIAF being compared to LOTR, since they're different endeavors in high-end fantasy and he has other influences, but Tolkien certainly was important to the game as well.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on May 08, 2014, 10:06:57 PM
What do you guys think of the, uh, Syfy channel?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 09, 2014, 05:35:51 AM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on May 08, 2014, 10:06:57 PM
What do you guys think of the, uh, Syfy channel?
About as much as I think of genital warts.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on May 09, 2014, 07:58:54 AM
Just finished season 3 of GOT. Yep. Most despicable TV villains ever. Naturally, I will be thoroughly pissed if the antagonists don't get dealt the same level of cruelty by the end of the series.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 09, 2014, 09:32:01 AM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on May 08, 2014, 10:06:57 PM
What do you guys think of the, uh, Syfy channel?
Until I discovered Netflix, I would record the odd Twilight Zone episode from there. That's all the use I have for the channel.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on May 10, 2014, 12:19:34 PM
My reaction to the ending of season 4, episode 1: Fuck yeah!

My reaction to the ending of season 4, episode 2: FUCK YEAH!
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on May 10, 2014, 03:38:59 PM
These days it seems like everyone's caught up on GOT except for me... :imnothappy:

Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on May 10, 2014, 03:53:38 PM
I still don't even know what the show is about.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on May 10, 2014, 04:29:16 PM
It's a fantasy/drama series with kings, lords, knights, dragons, white-walkers, lots of great characters, and some of the most despicable villains in television history. It's pretty great stuff if that sort of thing is up your alley, especially since it's backed by great writing. Just keep in mind that it's high on explicit content, and if you're not the type to see cruel and horrible things happen to the characters that you like, it may be hard to stomach the show. This series kind of reminds me of Monster, what with how it follows the plot-threads of various characters and really keeps you on your toes since nobody is safe in this show.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: GregX on May 10, 2014, 05:46:04 PM
Quote from: Ensatsu-ken on May 10, 2014, 04:29:16 PM
It's a fantasy/drama series with kings, lords, knights, dragons, white-walkers, lot's of great characters, and some of the most despicable villains in television history. It's pretty great stuff if that sort of thing is up your alley, especially since it's backed by great writing. Just keep in mind that it's high on explicit content, and if you're not the type to see cruel and horrible things happen to the characters that you like, it may be hard to stomach the show. This series kind of reminds me of Monster, what with how it follows the plot-threads of various characters and really keeps you on your toes since nobody is safe in this show.

And it's the best thing on TV. The best analogy I can make is that it's Filet Mignon while "Agents of SHIELD" is a turd left on the Men's Room floor of an Arby's.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 10, 2014, 05:50:24 PM
There's a good deal of sexposition though. Lots of characters talking about their plans while fucking.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on May 11, 2014, 12:06:49 AM
Maybe it's about time I finally get into Game of Thrones.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 11, 2014, 12:07:54 AM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on May 11, 2014, 12:06:49 AM
Maybe it's about time I finally get into Game of Thrones.
Be sure to avoid comments sections involving the show, since they'll have book spoilers.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on May 11, 2014, 12:09:57 AM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on May 11, 2014, 12:07:54 AM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on May 11, 2014, 12:06:49 AM
Maybe it's about time I finally get into Game of Thrones.
Be sure to avoid comments sections involving the show, since they'll have book spoilers.

Comments sections? Do you mean for articles on this site?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 11, 2014, 12:10:28 AM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on May 11, 2014, 12:09:57 AM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on May 11, 2014, 12:07:54 AM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on May 11, 2014, 12:06:49 AM
Maybe it's about time I finally get into Game of Thrones.
Be sure to avoid comments sections involving the show, since they'll have book spoilers.

Comments sections? Do you mean for articles on this site?
No, like YouTube comments. AV Club comments. Tweets. Stuff like that.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on May 13, 2014, 09:16:40 PM
So, I started watching this show called The Wire. I don't think anyone here has heard of it....

And thus my struggle to understand common rundown neighborhood street slang (most likely already simplified for TV) begins. Other than that the show is pretty interesting, though it does start out a bit slow. I'll update you all on my thoughts once I watch a few more episodes.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 13, 2014, 09:50:34 PM
In hindsight, the pilot's pretty weak, even by early series roughness standards. But I do think that the show really picks up by episode 4.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on May 13, 2014, 10:30:27 PM
I need to finish watching The Wire. I bought the dang complete series set, so it's not like there's anything stopping me other than time management...
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 23, 2014, 10:08:42 PM
I think even Game of Thrones would be a little afraid to show as much bloodshed that Hannibal did tonight.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Nel_Annette on May 23, 2014, 11:08:52 PM
Speaking of complete series sets, the Breaking Bad one is coming out soon and I was thinking of picking it up, as I've yet to see the show.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 24, 2014, 09:39:00 PM
This is how they advertise Hannibal in South Korea. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kR_T3RCB7TA)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 25, 2014, 08:15:21 PM
Imagine how high the ratings would be here if NBC pulled some of that off.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on May 26, 2014, 06:56:05 PM
I got all 5 definitive edition seasons of the Twilight Zone for a good deal.

I have a lot of watching ahead of me.  :)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 27, 2014, 01:30:29 PM
Nice!

Oh, and when I finish the last season of Angel, I think that I'll start Arrow up. Netflix only has the first season, but I can revert to watching online until the second is up.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 13, 2014, 12:45:39 AM
I'm watching this week's Louie episodes, and in them, Jeremy renner is playing a drug dealer that Louie used to buy pot from in middle school, with an overblown Jersey accent.

Talk about a 180 from Hawkeye.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 21, 2014, 03:59:53 PM
I started Arrow earlier this week, and so far, it's been pretty okay. It makes sense that the show combines modern super hero movie structure with soap, and does it without delving into procedural territory, which makes it better than AOS already. I'm still not too attached to all of the characters, however. Oliver's sister in particular annoys a little.

I also like seeing various DC characters show up, even some without major ties to Green Arrow. So far we've had Deathstroke and the Royal Flush Gang show up, and I know that there's more to come.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on June 21, 2014, 07:00:51 PM
I've kept up with the show. It's OK (definitely miles better than AOS, especially since it's not afraid to change the status quo in major ways), though I feel that there's something holding it back from being a lot better. It could also do with less filler, but for what looked like it would be complete shit, it's surprisingly entertaining at face value. I know next to nothing about Green Arrow, but even I can see that this show takes more influence from Nolan's batman films than it seems to from its own source material, and while I'm tired of DC feeling like every modern superhero movie or show has to be dark and gritty like those films, it's not necessarily a bad thing in this case.

I will give the show some credit for having no qualms about killing off major characters (and not just the bad guys), though it's closer to a Whedon show in that regard, so don't expect GOT levels of ruthlessness.

Also, Thea is basically this show's Dawn. That, and Laurel can get pretty annoying as well. I would have rather they wrote her as her Black Canary persona than make her JUST the whiney love interest for Oliver.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 21, 2014, 09:26:39 PM
So Thea gets better as the show goes along? Good.

Yeah, it's worth watching, but I can't say that I'm in love.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on June 21, 2014, 10:15:20 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on June 21, 2014, 09:26:39 PM
So Thea gets better as the show goes along? Good.

I should probably clarify that I never liked Dawn, even in the later seasons. :sweat:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 21, 2014, 10:29:02 PM
Quote from: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on June 21, 2014, 10:15:20 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on June 21, 2014, 09:26:39 PM
So Thea gets better as the show goes along? Good.

I should probably clarify that I never liked Dawn, even in the later seasons. :sweat:
Aww man, but she gets smarter and more useful in the later seasons. She still screwed up, but so did Xander and Willow at that point.

But as for Arrow, I'll try to watch some more of it in the next couple of days. I'll probably end up watching season 2 online, since I doubt that Netflix will have it by the time I'm done with 1, though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on June 21, 2014, 10:36:18 PM
Season 2 is better than first. Deathstroke is probably the first legitimately sinister villain on this show. My only gripe is that they pull that shit from the animated Teen Titans series and refer to him as Slade most of the time.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 21, 2014, 11:15:49 PM
So I take it that you didn't warm up to TT when you gave it another chance. ;)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on June 21, 2014, 11:31:48 PM
Yeah, I don't detest it like how I once did, but it's really just not for me.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 27, 2014, 05:06:33 PM
One thing AOS and Arrow have in common is J. August Richards. I think both of his characters were decent on the shows, but he had some really awesome stuff in the most recent Arrow episode I watched.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on June 28, 2014, 12:02:31 AM
Too bad he was just a one-shot character on Arrow.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 28, 2014, 12:45:12 AM
Yeah, but at least that was an awesome episode!

I'm not sure how I feel about Roy yet, though. So far he's just your average rouge trying to go good, but he's getting a little more interesting as the show goes by. I really hope that they find the right dynamic for him come season 2.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on June 28, 2014, 01:19:32 AM
The only 2 versions of Roy Harper/Speedy/Red Arrow/Arsenal that I've become familiar with are the one from this series and Young Justice. I'm not really a fan of the character in either iteration, TBH, but he does get a significant character arc in the 2nd season. I've heard that this version of Roy is more inspired by his "Arsenal" persona from the comics, but since I hardly know anything about the character, I don't really know what that means.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 07, 2014, 02:11:41 PM
Hey, Hulu has the first 6 episodes of Arrow's second season up without the need of a Plus account! I was a little busy earlier, but I'm definitely going to find time to start that up today.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 07, 2014, 04:35:14 PM
It's a shame that it cuts off right before The Flash crossover episodes. Speaking of which, I plan to keep up with that show as well when it finally premieres this Fall.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 07, 2014, 04:37:30 PM
Yeah, that's partly why I finally decided to start Arrow, which is funny, since I usually prefer Ollie to any incarnation of the Flash. But it's nice to see DC win the market in TV as of now, even with Marvel schooling them in film and comics (I've been getting into Marvel's recent stuff a lot lately, and they are leagues above New 52).

I saw the season premiere earlier, and hey, Black Canary's here! This is going to be awesome.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 07, 2014, 04:46:26 PM
Season 2 is definitely a step up from the first season. It's still not great, but I'd say that it's about on par with a decent season of Buffy or Angel (like Buffy season 7 or Angel season 2, for example), and the finale leaves off at a place that leads me to believe that season 3 has the potential to be even better.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 07, 2014, 04:50:01 PM
Season 1 would be a 7/10 for me, maybe an 8 on a good day. If I can give 2 the same score, maybe one point higher, I'm happy.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on July 07, 2014, 05:29:59 PM
There's going to be a Flash show?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 07, 2014, 05:32:50 PM
Quote from: gunswordfist on July 07, 2014, 05:29:59 PM
There's going to be a Flash show?
Yep, this fall!
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on July 09, 2014, 05:54:53 PM
Re-watching Parks & Recreation on Netflix. Waiting for Season 6 to get uploaded.

I'm toward the middle of season 3. I'm tiring of the Jerry-bashing. That's the only thing dragging this down. And they seriously must not have liked Ann this season, for some reason. I think I mentioned that on UD- this is a terrible season for Ann. Except for getting to fool around with a Jersey Shore cast member lookalike (a guy I would have passed on, myself), there is no end to what they dumped on her.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 11, 2014, 08:24:01 PM
Skinny Amanda Waller... huh.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 11, 2014, 09:29:35 PM
Yeah, that caught me off guard as well. Granted that  I only have her JLU iteration to go by, so it wasn't that hard for me to get used to her appearance in this show. In terms of personality and role, she certainly acts very similar to her JLU counterpart, in that she's not really a "good guy" or "bad guy" of any kind, but more of a neutral figure that occasionally has a common interest with Ollie, while on other occasions seeing him and Team Arrow as an obstacle in her way. It looks like she'll have a much bigger role in season 3, going by the way that season 2 wrapped up.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on July 11, 2014, 09:33:11 PM
She's big in Young Justice, President Lex comic and Batman Beyond Hush.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 11, 2014, 09:40:14 PM
They made her skinny in TV/film media because DC doesn't like fat chicks.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 11, 2014, 09:55:18 PM
I almost thought I was watching Scandal for a second, honestly. It's not that big of a deal, but I do think Waller's weight gave her an intimidating presence in JLU and the comics that's somewhat missing here so far.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 12, 2014, 01:34:15 PM
And they got Ra's name wrong, too. Can't say that I'm too surprised, though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 12, 2014, 01:46:45 PM
Yeah, I found that kind of baffling as well. Did none of the writers know how to pronounce the name, or were they just dicking around with the fans for the hell of it?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on July 12, 2014, 02:33:04 PM
At least TBATB and TDKR got it right.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on July 15, 2014, 02:18:42 PM
What do you guys think of Hannibal?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 15, 2014, 02:26:37 PM
At this point, I think I like it better than Game of Thrones. It had a better season this year, at least.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 15, 2014, 02:42:31 PM
I haven't seen it yet. It's on my backlog.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 15, 2014, 09:39:52 PM
The Suicide Squad episode is pretty awesome, and reminds me that I need to get into their books already.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 15, 2014, 10:57:24 PM
Yeah, that was one of the highlights of the season for me.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 18, 2014, 11:25:31 AM
Arrow Season 2 Spoiler:
Spoiler
Well I have to say, I was not expecting Moira to die like that.
[close]
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 18, 2014, 11:38:28 AM
Spoiler
It kind of reminds me of Joyce's death in BTVS, in how out of left field it felt like it was, but in reality it did have some build-up to it.
[close]

Needless to say, this makes the tension between Oliver and Slade more personal than ever.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 18, 2014, 12:04:17 PM
Quote from: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 18, 2014, 11:38:28 AM
Spoiler
It kind of reminds me of Joyce's death in BTVS, in how out of left field it felt like it was, but in reality it did have some build-up to it.
[close]
Spoiler
To be fair, a big part of Buffy's fifth season revolved around Joyce's illness. The shock of her death came from a brief period where it seemed like she could recover, while Moira's murder wasn't foreshadowed quite as much.
[close]

But yeah, wow, that's a real game changer right there.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 18, 2014, 12:18:25 PM
Spoiler
I wouldn't necessarily say that, though. Slade vowed to kill Oliver's family for quite a while. It's just that we're not used to seeing villains carry through on any part of their promises like that (this is a huge reason why Deathstroke is, IMO, the first legitimately threatening villain in this series).

It's no different with Joyce. Her death wasn't really foreshadowed as much as it was made a possibility. At the time, we just didn't expect it to come to that since she seemed to be improving her health.

Now, Buffy's "death" on the other hand, was actually foreshadowed quite a bit.
[close]
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on July 19, 2014, 06:33:52 PM
I decided to give Parks and Rec another chance and I'm glad I did, because the show improved drastically in the second season. I found season 1 to be mediocre at best, but season 2 was consistently great. If the show continues like this I might make a place for it among my favorites.

I've also been watching Broadchurch a series I've heard lots of good things about and it's definitely lived up to it's hype. If you're starved for a really compelling, well-acted mini-series I strongly recommend checking it out.

Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on July 19, 2014, 08:39:26 PM
Yeah, season 1 of Parks and Recreation is not very strong, as it basically felt like another version of The Office, and Leslie Knope was acting a lot like Michael Scott and hadn't become her own, distinct character yet. The second season is where the show started to mold it's own identity, completely different in tone and feel from The Office, and become all the better for it. I'll warn you that seasons 5 and 6 are a bit hit and miss, but it's still a great show overall.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 19, 2014, 10:15:58 PM
Yeah, the show's glory years are 2-4. The next two have some great stuff, but they're not as strong, and yeah, the first season is pretty weak. At least it's only 6 episodes long, though.

I've considered watching Broadchurch for a while, so I might try to find time to get into it. I did watch Luther earlier this year, which is somewhat similar, and pretty good. It's hard to not be entranced by Idris Elba, though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on July 20, 2014, 10:42:14 AM
I've only seen the first season of Luther, but I liked it a lot. I found the interaction between Luther and Alice to be the highlight of the show, both Idris Elba and Ruth Wilson were great in their respective roles.
Although Elba will always be Stringer Bell as far as I'm concerned. ;)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 21, 2014, 10:56:10 PM
I've also been watching ER on and off, and it's pretty noticeable that during the funeral for the chief of medicine's son, Jeanie Boulet sings "Good Riddance". And of course, that was around the same time the Seinfeld clipshow was made before the finale.

So yeah, NBC was very good to Green Day that year.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: No-Personality on July 31, 2014, 07:22:55 PM
I'm pick-and-choose re-watching Saved by the Bell and a couple other shows. I want to watch Scrubs over again (the first 8 seasons) for a series review / overview... which I'd like to try posting somewhere and turning into a big thing. Though July has been the most chaotic, stressful month in the last few years of my life, I'd like to think August will be better somehow. Ehhhh.

Also, I felt like re-watching certain storylines of The Office and I'm now convinced "The Return" (season 3, episode 13) is the best episode of the entire show. Thanks in part to the episode directly before that, where Andy persuades Michael to be suspicious that Dwight is en-route to corporate, with intent to betray him again. If you feel like it sometime, watch those 2 episodes back-to-back and parallel the way that Angela looks in on Andy's conference-room interviews and Pam looks at the camera during Jim's conversation with Andy (as he brags about his acapella group). I almost got freaking chills when I realized what the camera's focusing out of the foreground and in on the background was suggesting. That is some damn masterful television.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 20, 2014, 12:12:06 AM
I'm watching Hill Street Blues, and it is good. You can definitely see the blueprints for the Great Modern Drama SeriesTM abound.

It definitely shows its age, and I don't even mean the show's obvious procedural roots. The Latino gang members are treated like almost complete caricatures, and are kind of hard to sit through. Not nearly as much as Furillo's ex-wife, though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on September 05, 2014, 12:12:15 AM
I decided to get back into Bordwalk Empire. I re-watched the first 2 episodes and now just finished episode 3 (which incidentally featured Raritan, New Jersey as a location, which is where I live). Anyways, it's a really good show. I'll see if I can try and catch up before the new season begins.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on September 10, 2014, 09:11:05 PM
I just finished season 1 of Boardwalk Empire. It's really good, IMO. I wouldn't put it quite up at the level of something like Breaking Bad or Game of Thrones, but being just a notch below the best is certainly not a bad thing, by any means. And, for all I know, the later seasons could be even better. For now, though, it's a solid show with excellent acting to back it up, albeit some of the writing is questionable, at times. Also, Al Capone in this series feels a tad too much like a Joe Pesci wannabe in the beginning of the show, but he comes into his own later on in the season as his character arc progresses.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 10, 2014, 09:29:29 PM
The general consensus on Boardwalk Empire seems to be that it's a good show, but not a great one. It does seem up my alley though, but I haven't had a chance to get to it.

Maybe if I get HBO Go, I'll finally get to sit down and try it and a couple of other series out, like Treme and Deadwood.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on September 10, 2014, 09:36:39 PM
I find the first season great, at least, which is what I've watched so far. It's just that there are different levels of great. If I were to compare it directly to BB, GOT, The Wire, The Sopranos, and so on, then it definitely falls short of those insanely high levels of quality. Compared to almost anything else that I've watched, though, I find it to be incredibly well-written and entertaining, for the most part. If the rest of the series is as good as season 1, then I could see it being a personal top 10 for me.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 10, 2014, 09:39:58 PM
Fair enough! Like I said, I can't speak from personal experience with the show, since I haven't seen it, so I'm just sharing what I've heard. And to be fair, it's never a great idea to stick to public opinion.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on September 10, 2014, 09:46:04 PM
We'll, if I stuck to public opinion, than Buffy and Angel would just be those crazy 90's/early aughts shows that were goofy fun but mostly a product of their time. I've literally encountered people with this opinion, while some others think that they are junk shows that were incredibly stupid.

Both are among my favorite shows ever, which just goes to show how much I give a rats ass what any consensus in anything is. ;)

So, yeah, like you said, screw sticking to public opinion.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 10, 2014, 09:54:07 PM
Don't forget the people who won't touch Buffy with a 10-foot pole because it stars a female!

Like Jonn. Y'no, he actually called all male MLP fans, and not just the crazy bronies, fags. I do not miss those chats at all.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on September 10, 2014, 10:05:39 PM
Oh god, I can't stand those kinds of people. While I do despise the types of people who use sexism as a defense or attack of anything and everything, I do in fact despise the opinion (for any medium) that anything prominently staring or empowering female characters are inherently inferior. You might as well say that you only enjoy stories that glorify the stereotypical American white man, while you're at it.

What's funny is that I remember viewing and interview with James Marsters about how he ran into a guy who claimed that Buffy was stupid because women couldn't fight. James then commented on how the show used trained, black-belt female stunt doubles who could easily best the shit out of guys like him and the ignorant commenter. I just found that little quip from that particular interview of his to be amusing.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on September 12, 2014, 02:37:42 PM
Season 2, Episode 2 had a scene that finally convinced me that Jimmy is a bad-ass. They tried to make him out to be one before this, but I never really bought into it until now. The difference here is that unlike other times, he was completely cornered with his back up against the wall, and came out of the situation unscathed, and what's particularly impressive is that this isn't a situation in which he beat a gun with a knife. He beat two guns with a knife. Even more bad-ass. ;D

The plot for season 2, so far, does not look good for Nucky. It seems that all of his former allies are going to be at each other's throats, especially his own, both figuratively and literally, this season. I won't be surprised to see one of the main characters bite the dust in this season.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 15, 2014, 10:54:49 PM
Is it worth sticking with Twin Peaks if I'm not really liking the first season?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on September 15, 2014, 11:06:24 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on September 15, 2014, 10:54:49 PM
Is it worth sticking with Twin Peaks if I'm not really liking the first season?
You might as well watch until they solve who killed Laura Palmer. At the very least, you'll have pop culture knowledge.

But the show really is not for everyone.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 15, 2014, 11:15:16 PM
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on September 15, 2014, 11:06:24 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on September 15, 2014, 10:54:49 PM
Is it worth sticking with Twin Peaks if I'm not really liking the first season?
You might as well watch until they solve who killed Laura Palmer. At the very least, you'll have pop culture knowledge.

But the show really is not for everyone.
I mean, I already know (damn internet culture), but I do want to at least see the episode it's revealed, since it's supposed to be a landmark. Also, most, but not all, believe that the show becomes increasingly weaker after the reveal. I'd stick around if I was liking it more, though.

I'm just not impressed, which is surprising me. I wish it was a lot weirder, personally.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 16, 2014, 10:23:21 PM
In other news, I'm supposed to watch episodes of Have Gun, Will Travel and The Twilight Zone for one of my classes. That should be cool.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on September 21, 2014, 10:59:24 PM
Has anyone heard of the show Da Vinci's Demons?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on September 26, 2014, 04:22:59 PM
I watched the premiere episode of the Gotham TV series. It was OK. I wasn't that excited about this show, and I'm still not sold on it, but going by the first episode, it does have some potential, depending on where they decide to go with it from here.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 07, 2014, 02:47:10 PM
Tomorrow will be the premiere of The Flash. I like Arrow well enough, so I'll definitely be giving that show a watch. And of course I'll be keeping up with Arrow season 3 as well, which starts airing on Thursday.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on October 07, 2014, 03:07:50 PM
Someone else here likes Arrow? Strange, I thought I was alone.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 07, 2014, 03:20:08 PM
Me and Avaitor had a whole conversation about Arrow like a few pages back. How'd you miss that? :D

Anyways, it's a good show, with the potential to be great. I found season 2 to be even better than the first season, with Slade being my favorite villain on the show so far. Season 3 is also looking like it'll be excellent, so I'm eager to watch that as well.

Since The Flash is largely made up of a production team that previously worked on Arrow, I'm interested in that as well. Perhaps I'll create a thread for DC shows on the CW (since they are likely to add more series to their lineup in the coming years).
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 07, 2014, 03:23:39 PM
No, I enjoy it. I wish the show was willing to have a little more fun with itself, but I'll take Arrow over AOS any day. I'll end up watching The Flash's pilot online tomorrow, since I have a club tonight though.

Oh, and I just watched the pilot of A to Z. Beside Milioti, the show really is similar to HIMYM in a lot of ways, although it never did have Lea Thompson ride one of the hoverboards from BTTF II. That said, this was entertaining, and I like how Andrew was called out for his stalkerish tendencies, which rarely happened to Ted. It wasn't all that funny, but the performances are enough to keep me interested in the show for now.

Edit: I'd say that the first season of Arrow is a 7/10, maybe an 8 on a good day, while you can bump the second season up a number on both cases.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on October 07, 2014, 03:32:49 PM
Arrow and Person of Interest are the two current running shows I like the most, honestly.

I'm definitely interested in seeing The Flash, though. With the production team behind Arrow backing it it has a lot of potential.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 07, 2014, 03:35:53 PM
I do think that Arrow has a nice balance of dark and serious story-lines with a healthy dose of humor thrown in, but it's clear that they were going for more of a Batman-esque vibe with the tone, since that's what's popular right now. Still, I think it's pretty good about not being super serious all of the time.

As for being more fun-spirited, it looks like The Flash is going to be the show to fill that void within that Universe, which will also help to distinguish it from Arrow.

As for my favorite currently running shows (counting stuff that are just in off-season, right now), I'd have to say this is the order that I'd go with based on what I'm currently following (and naturally, I'm not counting animation, here):

1. Game of Thrones
2. Bordwalk Empire (but I'm still not caught up with it, yet)
3. Arrow
4. Girl Meets World
5. Gotham

I certainly like the first 3 shows, and am kind of mixed about GMW, but I do still find it to be good entertainment for kids. Gotham hasn't impressed me yet, and while I'll stick with it for at least a few more episodes, it's bordering dangerously close on AOS territory blandness, IMO, but to its credit it has a few saving graces, namely the characters of Bullock, Selina Kyle, and Penguin, each of who I find to be done really well. Alfred is actually pretty decent, as well. Its biggest problem is that Jim Gordon, it's main character, is pretty flat, and I don't really care about him yet. That one lady who's a gang leader is, quite frankly, a terrible villain, at least so year. Someone of that high of a position should not be as stupid and rash as she is. Also, while only a minor character, I'm not buying that kid as Bruce Wayne, right now. Maybe it's because good child actors are really hard to come by, but his performance really does leave a lot to be desired. As it stands, it's not a bad show, by any means, but I'd it doesn't pick itself up in quality fast, it'll become another really bland mess like AOS, and that by effect will make it a bad show. I'm actually really hoping that it doesn't come to that, because I actually do want to like what I'm watching.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 07, 2014, 03:48:34 PM
Obviously Arrow isn't bereft of humor, but the series does remind me of Buffy and Angel with its traditional network series season order and mix of storyarc-building with less direct plot-based episodes, minus the more fun ones. I kind of miss that, personally, since some of the less focused episodes aren't all that enjoyable.

Then again, Buffy and Angel had some stupid episodes themselves.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 07, 2014, 03:55:56 PM
Hell, I'd argue that a good chunk of Angel's fourth season is really bad. I mean, Connor fucks Cordelia and gets her pregnant with a goddess from another dimension, who turns out to be the main villain of the arc. I mean, just process that for a second. That is idiotic writing at its finest. The only redeeming qualities of that season were some of the early one-shot episodes like Spin the Bottle, as well as those Faith episodes in the middle of the season, and the fact that Angelus payed major homage to Hannibal Lector with his scenes in the cage was an awesome use of his character. Still, that is the worst season in the Buffy/Angel-verse by far. It even manages to make Buffy's 4th season look so much better in contrast. After all, that season's fault was just that its main story-line was kind of boring, not that it was badly written. As far as I'm concerned, season 5 was like an apology for season 4, and saved the series in my eyes, by letting it go out on a high note.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on October 07, 2014, 04:02:09 PM
If I might ask... how old is Selena Kyle in Gotham?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 07, 2014, 04:02:53 PM
I'd say that the season finale was also good, since it was building up to the fifth as an apology of sorts. It also mostly wrapped up Connor's arc about as well as they could have at that point. Simply erasing him from existence would have been too easy and ultimately would have made the season even more of a waste of time, while there's no way that Angel could have let him stay the way he was. Making it so Connor was raised by a regular family, and only Angel remembers his existence is darkly appropriate as both an end to this story and a way to get to stronger material in the following season.

Of course, I think all of Buffy and Angel's season finales, even for their lesser seasons, were very good. Barring Angel's second season arc, mind you. I'm still not a Pylea fan.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 07, 2014, 04:11:58 PM
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on October 07, 2014, 04:02:09 PMIf I might ask... how old is Selena Kyle in Gotham?

Somewhere around Bruce's age, by the looks of it, so she's still just a kid.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on October 07, 2014, 04:42:20 PM
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on October 07, 2014, 04:02:09 PM
If I might ask... how old is Selena Kyle in Gotham?
You tell me. (http://www.jackincongruente.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Camren-Bicondova-21.jpg) :-*
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on October 07, 2014, 05:05:03 PM
So she isn't Catwoman, then? Okay, I was just thinking how odd that would be with Bruce still being a kid and all.

Quote from: Foggle on October 07, 2014, 04:42:20 PM
Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on October 07, 2014, 04:02:09 PM
If I might ask... how old is Selena Kyle in Gotham?
You tell me. (http://www.jackincongruente.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Camren-Bicondova-21.jpg) :-*
:whuh:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 07, 2014, 05:29:37 PM
No. Various characters are present in the series who have not yet become their personalities from the comic books. Right now, Oswald Cobblepot is still just Oswald Cobblepot. He is going through a character arc where he's working his way up the criminal underground to becoming the Penguin, which I consider to be one of the stronger aspects of the show, so far. Selina Kyle is just a homeless kid on the streets who makes her living as a pickpocket and minor thief, which seems natural for her at that young of an age.

Basically, the biggest problem with the show is that its actual main character, Jim Gordon, is incredibly underwhelming so far. That, and the show seems to have an identity crisis, as it's balancing itself between the more cartoony-esque Burton version of Batman and the darker, more serious Nolan version. Personally, I think that it should lean more towards the former to differentiate itself from the relatively recent Nolan films, but either way, it needs to decide on what it wants to be fast. If can't have it both ways.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on October 07, 2014, 05:53:12 PM
Sounds interesting. I guess I'll wait a bit to see where it goes.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 07, 2014, 07:28:20 PM
According to Gotham, Bruce is inspired by a vigilante who killed his foes by handcuffing their legs to balloons.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on October 07, 2014, 08:03:21 PM
Just saw the premiere of The Flash. I liked it. Definitely a strong start to the show.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 07, 2014, 08:25:36 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on October 07, 2014, 07:28:20 PMAccording to Gotham, Bruce is inspired by a vigilante who killed his foes by handcuffing their legs to balloons.

Actually, to the show's credit, Bruce pointed out how the vigilante was a criminal as well. He didn't really take inspiration from him, but so far seems to be more influenced by Gordon.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 07, 2014, 09:39:43 PM
Yeah, it was a pretty good premiere. I'm still more excited about Arrow season 3 starting tomorrow night, though. :thumbup:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Speedy on October 08, 2014, 09:31:29 AM
Catching up on Community.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 17, 2014, 11:12:59 PM
Now that I have HBO, I was able to give the Foo Fighters' new show a chance, and I enjoyed it! It's a pretty awesome look through music history in Chicago, featuring a good mix of blues and punk, which shouldn't be a surprise to fans.

And "Something From Nothing" is a solid song. It makes you think that it's going to be another of the Foo's slower songs, but it brings some of their more raw punk influences back in and jams before long. Rick Nielsen is great in it, as well.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 01, 2014, 03:47:04 PM
Aww, NBC canceled A to Z. They're going to respect the show's current contract and air the remaining 8 episodes, but it's done when the show is meant to hit M.

I'm not surprised, since the show wasn't doing well even by NBC's standards, but I was enjoying it. It does seem true that unless it airs after The Voice, people don't want NBC's comedies, though. Ah well.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on November 01, 2014, 04:00:58 PM
Speaking of NBC, I just watched episode 2 of Constantine. It's an improvement, but it still has a ways to go to be able to compete with something like The CW DC shows.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: VLordGTZ on November 10, 2014, 07:06:56 PM
Yesterday, I FINALLY finished Breaking Bad.  It is easily one of the best shows I have ever seen. 
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on November 17, 2014, 10:00:24 PM
After seeing the season 3 finale, I have to state my opinion that Grimm, while far from the best show of all time, has shown perhaps the greatest improvement I've seen in a series. It started as a fairly mediocre, cartoonish "monster of the week/everything must be kept a secret" series of episodes, to a wonderfully character driven story filled with wit and humor. I have my issues with it (particularly the cheap CGI effects, and I can't seem to fully grasp the backstory and history in the show), but it makes up for all of that so much with pure fun value. There's nothing about Grimm that's pretentious, nothing that makes you think they are trying too hard to write a deep, dark and especially intelligent series with a message. I can tell the crew have a lot of fun creating episodes, just as I can tell the actors really like their roles. And I think that contributes to how likable every main character is (in addition to, of course, the witty script). It's just well written and very enjoyable, and the dramatic elements are balanced well enough to work twice as well because of that.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 30, 2014, 09:37:06 AM
I've started digging my teeth into the Sopranos, and as of this writing, I'm midway through the fifth episode.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 30, 2014, 06:30:44 PM
"College" is one of the very best.

Wait, you haven't seen the show before?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on December 04, 2014, 02:04:22 PM
Bear McCreary should be doing more music for television. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkNlh-AwprM)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on December 04, 2014, 02:11:12 PM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 04, 2014, 02:04:22 PM
Bear McCreary should be doing more music for television. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkNlh-AwprM)
Watched Battlestar Galactica yet? ;)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on December 04, 2014, 02:35:16 PM
Quote from: Foggle on December 04, 2014, 02:11:12 PM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 04, 2014, 02:04:22 PM
Bear McCreary should be doing more music for television. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkNlh-AwprM)
Watched Battlestar Galactica yet? ;)

The newer one? No.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on December 04, 2014, 02:42:38 PM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 04, 2014, 02:35:16 PM
The newer one? No.
Are you implying that you've watched the original Galactica but not the 2004 series? :whuh:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on December 04, 2014, 02:47:49 PM
Quote from: Foggle on December 04, 2014, 02:42:38 PM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on December 04, 2014, 02:35:16 PM
The newer one? No.
Are you implying that you've watched the original Galactica but not the 2004 series? :whuh:

I've seen parts of it on television a long time ago. Haven't actually "watched" it, though. :P
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on December 22, 2014, 09:00:53 PM
Here's my rankings for all of the 2014 shows that I've watched or at least checked out.

Dull:
9. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

Mediocre:
8. Constantine
7. Gotham

Decent:
6. Girl Meets World

Good:
5. The Legend of Korra
4. The Flash

Great:
3. Arrow
2. South Park
1. Game of Thrones
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 22, 2014, 09:29:28 PM
My top 5 shows of 2014

5- Game of Thrones
4- The Americans
3- Rick and Morty
2- Orange is the New Black
1- Hannibal

edit: Wait, I forgot Over the Garden Wall. That might be my #1.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 29, 2014, 11:55:18 PM
I started watching The Good Wife about a week or so ago, and while I'm only about halfway through the first season now, I'm liking it so far. Moreson when the core story is going on rather than the case of the week elements, but that's what to expect for a network show.

I don't know if I have a favorite character yet, since so far it's mostly Julianna Margulies' show. Which, to be fair, is what I wanted.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on January 02, 2015, 11:46:50 AM
About half a year ago, i started watching tv regularly for the 1st time in years because i lost my internet. whoa, censorship has really changed. on basic cable there's several channels where saying pussy, dick, asshole, shit, showing the middlefinger (including on cn) and people's butts are fully uncensored. it was kind of a shock to me.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on January 07, 2015, 09:53:35 PM
i have never finished a live action tv series.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 06, 2015, 08:33:36 PM
The first 5 seasons of M*A*S*H are up on Netflix.

I know what I'm doing tonight.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Commode on February 07, 2015, 12:50:11 AM
Currently catching up on this season of Broad City.  Tried to watch the first two episodes of the newest season of Girls, but got bored. I still want to check out the first season though, I see almost universal praise for it, whereas everything after seems to have mixed reviews. Going to check out Silicon Valley next though probably.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on February 21, 2015, 10:19:05 PM
Morbidity convinced me to watch the Two and a Half Men finale. I think the St. Elsewhere finale now has competition for the most WTF ending on TV.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Commode on February 22, 2015, 08:07:47 AM
I streamed it yesterday, and it was terrible.  Not like standard Two and a Half Men terrible, but legitimately terrible.  Some of the worst/strangest writing I've ever seen, it almost seemed like a big long MadTV sketch. 

And the less said of that awful CGI segment the better.  It amazes me we can still have CGI on TV that looks that bad.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on February 22, 2015, 10:40:04 AM
that pretty much describes smallville's finale.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Goldstar on February 22, 2015, 05:17:47 PM
I'm just patiently waiting for season #2 of HBO's Silicon Valley in April.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 22, 2015, 05:57:28 PM
I didn't even know that the Two and a Half Men finale happened already.

But speaking of endings, I have a Parks and Rec post queued up quite soon.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on February 22, 2015, 06:27:36 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on February 22, 2015, 05:57:28 PM
I didn't even know that the Two and a Half Men finale happened already.

Same. I just heard about it yesterday. From the plot synopsis I read, it certainly sounds like it was a bizarre one.

Quote from: Avaitor on February 22, 2015, 05:57:28 PM
But speaking of endings, I have a Parks and Rec post queued up quite soon.

What are your thoughts on the season so far?

I think it's been fantastic, myself. Among the show's best. I'm hoping the finale this week delivers and closes the series off with one heck of a solid season.

Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Commode on February 22, 2015, 06:36:21 PM
Quote from: Goldstar on February 22, 2015, 05:17:47 PM
I'm just patiently waiting for season #2 of HBO's Silicon Valley in April.
Season 1 is still in my backlog, grr.  I even have HBOGo so there's really no excuse.

And sorry for the edit, I fucked up quoting.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 23, 2015, 03:02:31 AM
Quote from: Cartoon X on February 22, 2015, 06:27:36 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on February 22, 2015, 05:57:28 PM
But speaking of endings, I have a Parks and Rec post queued up quite soon.

What are your thoughts on the season so far?

I think it's been fantastic, myself. Among the show's best. I'm hoping the finale this week delivers and closes the series off with one heck of a solid season.
I'm feeling the same way I did about HIMYM's last season, before the finale. Good stuff, definitely an improvement over the last couple of seasons, but still not really perfect. I'll get more into that later.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 18, 2015, 10:12:18 PM
I'm watching Tommy Wiseau's new show, and wow, it is something. Imagine if Sunny and The Office had a baby. A no-budget, awkward, racist baby.

Just like The Room, it's strangely intoxicating, too.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 18, 2015, 11:21:04 PM
I think Tommy Wiseau wants me to buy his designer boxers. It's not very effective.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on March 19, 2015, 11:03:14 AM
Quote from: Avaitor on March 18, 2015, 11:21:04 PM
I think Tommy Wiseau wants me to buy his designer boxers. It's not very effective.

Thank you keep the change! Hi doggy.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 14, 2015, 03:31:24 PM
I finally got around to watching the Netflix series everyone has been talking about!

Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. It's okay, I guess. This is very much a Tina Fey show. Some great gags inbetween some less clever ones, on top of obnoxious music (sorry Tina, I don't like your husband's cues at all) and the odd racist bit or two. Jane Krakowski and Carol Kane are great here, easily the highlights. But I'm not sold enough to keep an eye out for season 2.

I'll try to start Daredevil up this week. I'm really excited for it, already.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Commode on April 14, 2015, 04:20:37 PM
It was funny for a few episodes, but after about 6 or 7 I grew bored and never finished it.  Was going to watch the rest of it one of these days, but just haven't gotten around to it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on May 02, 2015, 11:06:26 PM
Is the fight still on?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 03, 2015, 01:54:35 AM
I came over to my manager's place to watch it with him and his group during the 8th match, since I was working beforehand. Man, Pacquiao sure seemed to think that he did better than he did.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 09, 2015, 07:22:05 AM
Finished Three Kingdoms (2010). I know it's an old comparison, but it was like Game of Thrones with Chinese people. And given the praise for the latter show, it's more than enough of a recommendation.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on May 09, 2015, 10:02:43 AM
Well, there's something else to add to my backlog.

Where did you watch it, BTW?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 09, 2015, 10:03:38 AM
Youtube.

And here is the closest thing the show has to the main hero teaching his soldiers about value.

(http://img.4plebs.org/boards/tg/image/1380/32/1380323948745.gif)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on May 09, 2015, 10:25:37 AM
I suppose babies make excellent throwing weapons, maybe....
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on May 09, 2015, 11:28:30 PM
Watched Generation Kill. Probably the greatest miniseries ever, possibly the greatest final episode ever, certainly the greatest on-screen depiction of war ever. Intense, powerful, and engaging film-making with amazing characters and dialogue; instantly landed near the top of my favorite TV shows list. Highly recommended.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on May 28, 2015, 02:26:27 PM
I started watching True Detective today. I'm only one episode in, so I really can't think of anything to say about it yet.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on June 04, 2015, 04:21:06 PM
I blew through the entirety of Other Space last week, and I quite liked it. Good cast, good use of concept, solid humor, and it got progressively better with every episode. I think it'd get even better if they were to make another season, so hopefully it's streaming numbers are going strong.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on June 11, 2015, 05:48:34 AM
So far in Sense8, the characters I like are the Korean lady and the Van Damme guy. Everyone else is just boring, since this show feels aimless after a while. Maybe I'll be more invested when the plots converge.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on June 11, 2015, 11:56:28 AM
I heard its a real mess with no focus. But then with the Wachowski's involved I'm not sure if I should have expected anything else.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on June 12, 2015, 12:40:32 AM
So the parents of one of the characters call the cops to find their daughter, and they just happen to be calling the one cop in the entire world with a psychic connection to her. And that's not even the most contrived part of the show so far.

Though with the directors behind the Matrix sequels and the man who wrote One More Day, I should be expecting these things.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 12, 2015, 10:35:44 AM
Netflix released OITNB early, and I was able to catch the first 6 episodes before I fell asleep.

So far, it is focusing on a few things that I'm frankly not as interested in- primarily Alex and the guards- over other characters I'd like more of, such as Poussey and Suzanne, plus we lost Nicky early on. But hey, no Larry and Vee so far. You take what you can get.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 07, 2015, 03:11:53 PM
Watching season 2 of True Detective proves my theory that the only things that made the first season seem above average were McConaughey and Harrelson's chemistry, and Fukunaga's directing.

Without them, the show's modest writing is becoming increasingly less exciting.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 07, 2015, 03:14:47 PM
I like the first season (I have yet to start the second), though I still have to watch the last two episodes. Still, I don't quite get why people went nuts over it. I think that it's good television, but not among the best that I've seen, personally.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 07, 2015, 03:28:37 PM
Yeah, it's a good show, but not THE next best thing like a lot of people were claiming it to be in the first season. I think the second season's average start is changing some people's minds about this.

It's still not a bad show, but none of the characters are doing it for me, and I'm not feeling the story yet. We're only 3 episodes in so far, but I was a lot more into the first season by this point.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 07, 2015, 03:45:51 PM
I can't take Velcro or Taylor Kitsch's character seriously at all. One overacts all his stuff (like in the Aspen scene) while the other can barely emote when appropriate. And it's hurt further by hearing them all blurt out some of the worst dialogue. Even beyond the nihilistic speeches, there's something going on--whether it's the wording or the acting--that makes every line delivery feel haphazard. I'm still giggling over hearing the mayor yell "What about THE CUNT?"
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on July 07, 2015, 05:15:20 PM
Sounds kind of like how I feel about Raging Bull.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 13, 2015, 02:19:15 AM
I want to take the shootout from this week's episode and put in Benny Hill music.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on July 26, 2015, 09:59:09 PM
A few things I've been watching lately.

Breaking Bad

This was a long time coming, but I've been watching this lately. I wanted to start it a while ago, but I specifically wanted to watch it with one of my friends, and we've finally gotten around to starting that. A few episodes in. The series has such a high quality feel to it, like the production values are good. Nothing spectacular yet but the series does a great job of engaging within only a few episodes. Some of the characters are frustrating me, but in a good way in that they aren't bad characters, but rather, I really want to see what they do next. I'm legitimately looking forward to seeing where it goes next. But now, I'm just trying to carve out time lately so we can watch it more often than we currently are.

Grimm

I've been following this one for a while. It's a good example of a show that you really have to accept the flaws of to appreciate. Particularly, you have to get past the first batch of episodes in season 1 which are mediocre and forgettable, and you have to accept the cheap CGI which never improves. But after the beginning, the overall show picks up a lot. The main plots of episodes, which are standalone murder cases, are about as good as an above average Saturday morning cartoon. I really don't have much to say about any of them. It's the main characters that make it work because they are all incredibly likable. The most engaging part of any episode is the character arcs that expand across multiple episodes. It seems like a show that shouldn't work, but it does because it doesn't take itself too seriously and carries with it a really strong fun vibe while using seriousness only when necessary. I'm nearing the end of season 4 and it's better than it's ever been.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 26, 2015, 10:07:12 PM
Oh, nice to see you finally watching Breaking Bad. It gets better with each season, though season four is my personal favorite.

I also recommend the spin-off show, Better Call Saul, after you manage to finish this series.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 31, 2015, 08:54:22 PM
I'll try to start the Wet Hot American Summer show over the weekend. As much as I enjoy the original film's laid back approach and varied chemistry, it seems like a weird concept, but it looks like fun! Plus they literally got everyone back, and even added more people in, so let's see how it good.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 08, 2015, 12:52:11 AM
Oh man, so who saw the Daily Show finale?

It's crazy to think that it's really over.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 20, 2015, 09:52:44 AM
Watching this season of Fargo. Amusing to see Meth Damon hiding yet another body.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on November 15, 2015, 10:15:16 AM
So, Ronda Rousey lost a match, and she is no longer the UFC Women's Bantamweight Championship. This is such a surreal feeling.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on November 15, 2015, 01:03:44 PM
I'm still sad. :(
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on November 15, 2015, 04:37:07 PM
It's strange, isn't it? She is so absurdly good that it's easy to start believing that she'll never lose. And, if she ever does, it would be after a long and close match... But instead, it really wasn't. Holly Holm took her out in the second round, and frankly, it wasn't even a close match. She just chipped away at the champ, and Ronda was clearly getting thrown off her A game more and more and comparatively looked reckless. It was easy to doubt Holly's credentials, but she's a legit striker, big time. You can really see how she went into that fight knowing exactly who she was fighting, and how to win it.

I just hope this doesn't effect Ronda's life poorly. She had a lot of momentum, not just in UFC, but in various other opportunities. Hopefully, this loss won't slow her down.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 15, 2015, 11:53:47 PM
Man, and I was hoping that she'd keep her undefeated streak going after she and Mayweather could get their match approved.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on November 16, 2015, 03:13:53 AM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on November 15, 2015, 04:37:07 PM
It's strange, isn't it? She is so absurdly good that it's easy to start believing that she'll never lose. And, if she ever does, it would be after a long and close match... But instead, it really wasn't. Holly Holm took her out in the second round, and frankly, it wasn't even a close match. She just chipped away at the champ, and Ronda was clearly getting thrown off her A game more and more and comparatively looked reckless. It was easy to doubt Holly's credentials, but she's a legit striker, big time. You can really see how she went into that fight knowing exactly who she was fighting, and how to win it.

I just hope this doesn't effect Ronda's life poorly. She had a lot of momentum, not just in UFC, but in various other opportunities. Hopefully, this loss won't slow her down.

Exactly how I feel.
Quote from: Avaitor on November 15, 2015, 11:53:47 PM
Man, and I was hoping that she'd keep her undefeated streak going after she and Mayweather could get their match approved.
:srs:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on November 16, 2015, 11:33:19 AM
Quote"I just wanted to thank everyone for the love and support. I appreciate the concerns about my health, but I'm fine. As I had mentioned before, I'm going to take a little bit of time, but I'll be back."
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on November 16, 2015, 02:30:07 PM
I read that. :) Also, hopefully she changes camps. Her coach fucking sucks.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on November 18, 2015, 10:04:13 AM
Sounds like she is taking a break, which had already been her plan even before losing.

I think it's funny that everyone, including myself, thought that the match between Joanna and Valérie would be the show stealer, and that Ronda's match would be a spectacle but would just be another instance of Ronda winning within seconds. Turns out, neither of those things happened. It's incredible just how well Holly  went into that match and put on a technically perfect performance, and how well prepared she was. She even said beforehand that no one had yet to hit Ronda hard enough to throw her off her A game. It can't be emphasized enough, Ronda didn't stand a chance.

When they have their rematch, I wonder what will happen, and how Ronda will prepare now knowing what she's up against.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on November 18, 2015, 06:00:37 PM
I did think Holly had a bigger, if not much bigger chance of winning than Valerie Letourneau did. I'm still surprised she did it though. I just got around to watching the fight.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on November 18, 2015, 08:32:45 PM
If Ronda prepares properly, I honestly think the rematch (because we all know it will happen) could go either way. She was way too aggressive and seemed to get increasingly frustrated and unfocused, trying to beat Holly at her own game and badly failing at it.

Still, the Women's Strawweight Championship match was great, too. But despite early speculation, there was no doubt that Ronda and Holly's match stole the show.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on November 18, 2015, 09:23:57 PM
Oh yeah, Holm Vs. Rousey is MMA history already.

I'm not sure if Ronda can when a rematch. I think she'd need years of actually good striking training to win. The rematch will probably be in under a year. I could (and really hope) I'm wrong, though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 25, 2015, 03:34:05 PM
My top 10 live-action shows of the year. I might do a list for animated series later.

10. Louie
9. Daredevil
8. The Good Wife
7. Mr. Robot
6. Better Call Saul
5. Hannibal
4. Orange is the New Black
3. Jessica Jones
2. Mad Men
1. The Americans

More or less. Flash and Arrow are pretty much tied, tbh.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on November 25, 2015, 03:39:03 PM
I don't watch much, but if we're doing it overall on an average, then...

1. Daredevil
2. Person of Interest
3. Arrow
4. The Flash
5. Jessica Jones
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on November 25, 2015, 04:11:49 PM
I have watched only Daredevil and 3 episodes of Jessica Jones so...yeah, that's my list. :D
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 25, 2015, 04:24:35 PM
10. Wolf Hall
9. Orphan Black
8. The Flash
7. Mr. Robot
6. Fargo
5. Jessica Jones
4. Daredevil
3. Doctor Who
2. Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell
1. Show Me a Hero
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 25, 2015, 05:34:32 PM
Oh, I forgot about Mr. Robot. That's probably around my half-point.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on November 25, 2015, 11:23:52 PM
8. Jessica Jones (So Far)
7. The Flash
6. Agent Carter
5. Arrow
4. Game of Thrones
3. Daredevil
2. Better Call Saul
1. Ash vs. Evil Dead (So Far)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on November 26, 2015, 11:36:44 PM
10. Your Pretty Face is Going to Hell
9. Community
8. Parks & Recreation
7. Children's Hospital
6. Other Space
5. Game of Thrones
4. Inside Amy Schumer
3. Louie
2. It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
1. Orange is the New Black

Thinking back, I had a really fun time with tv this year. Though, I still haven't watched any of the DC or Marvel tv shows, and there's plenty else I have to catch up on, ought to start, or get around to, so my list could be subject to change if I can get around to some of those.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 27, 2015, 12:37:02 AM
Oh yeah, we did get new Sunny this year. Between that and Ash vs. Evil Dead, my top 10 might require further editing, lol.

But #1 is staying where it is. The Americans is that kind of show that rarely goes where I expect it to, but always lands in a direction that I'm excited for.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on December 15, 2015, 06:10:27 AM
Nathan For You is a godsend.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 07, 2016, 11:23:21 PM
Tried season 1 of Fargo, remembered how much I dislike the Coen brothers, and this movie in particular, stopped after 3 episodes.

I'll give the second season a chance, since I want to see Bruce Campbell as Reagan, but I'm not expecting too much.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 08, 2016, 12:04:41 AM
Oh, hey, I'm not alone in being bored shitless by their movies! :joy:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: The Shadow Gentleman on January 08, 2016, 08:34:10 AM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on December 15, 2015, 06:10:27 AM
Nathan For You is a godsend.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 08, 2016, 09:55:27 AM
Quote from: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 08, 2016, 12:04:41 AM
Oh, hey, I'm not alone in being bored shitless by their movies! :joy:
Did I ever mention how we had to watch Burn After Reading for 2 classes in a row?

I was miserable both times, but I remember how distinctly the laugh ratio dropped during our second viewing.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 08, 2016, 11:37:43 AM
I know that comedy is a subjective thing and all, but beyond not making me laugh (admittedly, I did chuckle at Brad Pitt getting shot in the face and that bit with J. K. Simmons at the end, out of the entire movie), I found the movie to be surprisingly slow to get through.

I also nearly fell asleep watching True Grit. To be fair, I never cared all that much for the original, either, but as someone who loves Westerns, it's pretty odd for a modern, gritty one, to not at least entertain me a little bit.

And while we're at it, I don't really "get" The Big Lebowski  (call me stupid all you want), and I believe that aside from the admittedly great performances and a well-directed shoot-out scene, No Country For Old Men is pretty dull to sit through.

I get that most people love the Coen Brothers, and I'm perfectly fine with that. But if ever there were popular directors whos' work I just couldn't begin to appreciate no matter how much I tried, they'd rank near the top for me.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on January 08, 2016, 04:46:52 PM
Quote from: The Shadow Gentleman on January 08, 2016, 08:34:10 AM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on December 15, 2015, 06:10:27 AM
Nathan For You is a godsend.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 10, 2016, 03:32:34 PM
I'm at the same point of Fargo's second season when I dropped the first, and I'm liking it a little better so far. I still don't really care about the plot, but the pacing and character building has improved, enough to where I can at least see myself finish the season.

But really, Ted Danson and Cristin Milioti have solid chemistry together.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 10, 2016, 04:47:57 PM
I finished watching the first season of Master of None. I'm not a fan of Aziz Ansari's stand-up, but this show itself is pretty decent, IMO. Doesn't hold a candle to Louie, though.

I also finally started watching Sons of Anarchy. I didn't realize that Charlie Hunnam and Ron Perlman were in this show! :huh:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 10, 2016, 09:48:52 PM
Oh yeah, I watched the first episode of Sons of Anarchy a while ago. I liked it, but never got around to watching more.

I should try to fix that soon.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 17, 2016, 02:46:54 PM
I'm finishing up season 2 of Fargo now. Unless the finale really messes up everything, I do think that this was an improvement from the first. It's not a retread of the film, like the first attempted to be, and its experimentation with its form helped to make an iffy plot work otherwise.

This isn't one of my favorite series from last year, but I'll probably at least give the third season a shot. And I do think that it's a good call that they're taking the year off to make the next season even fresher. Maybe this will turn into something I can really get behind.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on February 01, 2016, 05:09:28 AM
At the penultimate episode of War & Peace, it's weird how quickly I got used to Paul Dano as Pierre. At the beginning, I thought he was a very inspired choice. Although, it's a shame the miniseries doesn't have as much Denisov as the book did.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on February 06, 2016, 01:01:45 PM
I haven't got around to watch War and Peace yet, I should check it out in due time.
I've started watching the BBC series The Musketeers, I'm about half-way through the first season and I have to say that I'm impressed with how good this show is. Its up there with Fargo and the horse-show, in terms of shows that have exceeded my expectations. I should point out that The Musketeers is not a straight-up adaptation of the novel (hence why it says "based on characters created by Alexandre Dumas", rather than "based on the novel..." in the opening credits), but it does capture the spirit of Dumas' novel very well and all the characters are recognizable.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on February 25, 2016, 01:27:37 AM
After a few self-imposed hiatuses, I'm steamrolling through the rest of the Sopranos. I've gotten to the point where I can't forgive the main cast anymore.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on February 28, 2016, 02:14:13 PM
Welp, I watched the finale. Subscribing to the "Member's Only" theory. Silvio was the best character, and happy that Norway gave him a spin-off.

I was intrigued by one of the underlying themes in the last season, about how gentrification and modern culture shifts were killing the mafia more than any law enforcement could do. One of my favorite scenes is when two of Tony's crew try to rough up a Starbucks wannabe for protection money, but fail thanks to how multinational business practices already treat its employees.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 07, 2016, 11:13:13 AM
I'm liking this series so far. (http://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/article/the-simpsons-decade-get-a-life/)

And it makes me want to look for the laugh-track removed tracks, since I couldn't get into the series otherwise. Maybe it's because I've seen Chris Elliot in HIMYM and Raymond beforehand, and his shtick already feels old to me. But the talent behind the camera is what interested me.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 10, 2016, 10:50:59 AM
http://www.eonline.com/news/680827/it-s-official-married-with-children-reunion-is-in-the-works

Well, then.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 09, 2016, 03:47:25 AM
The Night Manager was an interesting watch. Le Carre's particular brand of espionage fiction works well in the modern era, though I admit I haven't read the source material to get a good idea of how the two compare in terms of time. But even then, the series really played with your head in the middle episodes as to who was the good guy and who was bad. Like you know where they stood, but the roles were portrayed in a way that arms dealing almost came off as a more noble cause than government surveillance operations. It was almost fun up until the shock at seeing how firm Roper and Burr's stances are.

Also, I kept staring at Hugh Laurie's bald spot. I know that's rude, but it was just there in so many shots.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 09, 2016, 10:48:05 PM
The Good Wife finale spent so much effort trying to make its final scene call back to its first, that it fell pretty flat on the whole. And there just wasn't enough emotional weight to make it work as well as it wanted to.

If the show ended last season, it might have had a tighter ending, but it was never especially consistent. Besides the lameness of the first half of season 4, the show hasn't been the same since the half-point or so of the previous season. But man, when it was good, it really was one of the last great cable shows.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 26, 2016, 10:25:09 AM
A few notes-

-Caught the Preacher premiere last night, and dug it. The GN is another series where I picked up the first volume, dug it, and never continued, but this captures the tone down pretty well, and does a good job with Tulip and Cassidy, moreso than Jesse so far, and even then, Dominic Cooper is showing plenty of promise. I'm hoping that this doesn't leave me as flat as AMC's last comic adaptation did.

-We're getting 2 more seasons of The Americans. (http://www.avclub.com/article/break-out-vodka-fx-has-renewed-americans-two-more--237304) This order feels like a compromise, with AMC acknowledging and embracing how critically successful the series is, but also accepting that it's not that popular. I sadly don't know anyone else who watches it, even though I swear that it's everything yon can look for in this age of TV. I want more for the show, but I'm willing to accept the short order.

-And now that I've finally discovered Rachel Bloom, I feel compelled to try out Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on June 07, 2016, 06:16:42 AM
I've finally gotten around to watch Better Call Saul and from what I've seen so far, its definitely living up to my expectations (to be honest, I like it more than the first season of Breaking Bad). Jimmy makes for a very good lead and most of the supporting characters are interesting as well, particularly Chuck. Oh, and of course, its always great to have more Mike.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 16, 2016, 03:08:07 PM
I was feeling down, since The Americans is done for the season, but then I skimmed some of the reviews for OITNB, and I can't wait for it to hit Netflix.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 20, 2016, 01:26:37 PM
I finished season 4 of OITNB. I'm mad about a certain character's death, and I'm surprised that the white supremacists weren't knocked down yet, but it was still a good season.

This was better structured than the last season, and it gave us some insight into characters who needed time, like Maritza and Lolly, as well as explained why Susanne and Soso are here. Plus, less Chapman and more Nicky.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 25, 2016, 11:22:06 PM
A friend of mine shared this list (http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/best-tv-shows-ever-top-819499/item/desperate-housewives-hollywoods-100-favorite-820451?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=KWEmmy&kwp_0=166452), and I have to say... huh. I can't really agree with the placements for a lot of shows here.

#1, for starters, is way too milquetoast for my tastes to earn its position. And I can name way too many series that deserves a spot here before Full House.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on June 25, 2016, 11:40:12 PM
Breaking Bad is only one spot too low....

You know, up until last season I could have easily supported Game of Thrones being ranked in the top 5, but I have a really sour opinion of this season. On the one hand, I could forgive the glaring plot-holes and just enjoy the great acting and spectacle, and to an extent I have. It's certainly not bad TV for the most part. However, I'm one of THOSE people who ended up getting into the books after getting hooked on the show, and I fell in love with George R. R. Martin's writing and themes. I don't blame the show for not being able to translate all of that, because quite frankly it's impossible. However, I felt that what made the first four seasons work so brilliantly is that they managed to capture the spirit of the books, however that started fading away with the fifth season, and this season has almost none of that spirit left. It feels part grimdark brutality for the sake of it, and another part fan-service in how many "crowd-pleasing" moments it has, regardless of whether they make sense or not.

To be fair, though, judging the show as a whole, the good still far outweighs the bad, so I suppose that the ranking is still somewhat justified.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on June 26, 2016, 12:24:15 AM
Why is The Wire below Big Bang Theory
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on June 26, 2016, 12:29:57 AM
Because stereotypes are popular and HBO GO/NOW didn't exist a decade ago.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 14, 2016, 11:07:45 AM
The Emmys were revealed, and here are the important nominations:

Best Drama Series-
The Americans

Best Lead Actor in a Drama Series-
Matthew Rhys, The Americans

Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series-
Keri Russell, The Americans

Outstanding Writing For A Drama Series
The Americans- "Persona Non Grata"
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on July 16, 2016, 11:00:39 AM
Quote from: Avaitor on July 14, 2016, 11:07:45 AM
The Emmys were revealed, and here are the important nominations:

Best Drama Series-
The Americans

Best Lead Actor in a Drama Series-
Matthew Rhys, The Americans

Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series-
Keri Russell, The Americans

Outstanding Writing For A Drama Series
The Americans- "Persona Non Grata"

Yes! This pleases Pharass.

I haven't had the opportunity to watch the fourth season yet, but The Americans is definitely among my favorite shows and Russell and Rhys are both great in their roles.

Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 17, 2016, 01:00:47 PM
Season 4 is the best yet!

I'm actually really disappointed that Alison Wright didn't gain a nomination herself, since she pulled off a hell of a final act.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on July 25, 2016, 09:35:54 AM
I watched Stranger Things on Netflix. Did anyone else see it? It's pretty great.

It's like a much better version of Super 8.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 25, 2016, 10:52:22 PM
5/8ths through the show right now. Some of the character dynamics I like, especially with Hopper. But then shit like Nancy's love triangle with Jonathan and Steve hampers some of it down.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on July 25, 2016, 10:58:50 PM
That has a pretty good pay-off, I think, but I don't want to spoil it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 26, 2016, 04:20:54 PM
Watching the sixth episode. I like that they're giving them reasons for being assholes instead of just being that out of nature, but now I don't like Lucas. He's in a situation he has no idea about, and thinks he has the right to judge Eleven? I know he's rightfully paranoid, but going it alone is just making it worse.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 13, 2016, 01:51:03 PM
I just started Deadwood and Star Trek TNG (since my brother told me that it's the most accessible series for a newcomer of the franchise). I've only seen the pilot episodes of each, so I can't really say much about them quite yet.

Quote from: Spark Of Spirit on July 25, 2016, 09:35:54 AMI watched Stranger Things on Netflix. Did anyone else see it? It's pretty great.

It's like a much better version of Super 8.

It was a nice surprise, and probably one of the best shows of the year so far. That said, I'm not really sure where the story can go from here with a second season. It'll be interesting to see what other bizarre stuff they can come up with to keep the story going, since the Eleven storyline has been pretty definitively wrapped up, with Hopper being the only real loose-end still attached to it (and maybe Will to some extent).
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on August 13, 2016, 03:12:41 PM
Here's a viewing guide on TNG for which episodes are cool and which are too awful to watch. (https://i.imgur.com/nnKU16i.jpg)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 13, 2016, 05:17:53 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on August 13, 2016, 03:12:41 PM
Here's a viewing guide on TNG for which episodes are cool and which are too awful to watch. (https://i.imgur.com/nnKU16i.jpg)

Thanks. This should be quite useful since it's such a long series.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 29, 2016, 05:39:37 PM
I just finished watching The Night Of. Even though it's a mini-series, this is the best thing that I've seen on TV all year.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on September 17, 2016, 03:01:14 AM
So I've been watching another Chinese show called Nirvana In Fire, and maybe I'm self-racist or something, but I need a chart to tell some of the characters apart. I nicknamed one of the characters Markiplier to remember him, but then there were three other characters with Markiplier's face.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on September 17, 2016, 04:15:54 PM
I bought Archer season six and Ash Vs. Evil Dead season one on DVD. I've already seen both, but I've been collecting Archer, and I wanted to give AVED a re-watch before the second season premieres next month.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on October 04, 2016, 07:09:52 AM
Finished season two of Mr. Robot a few days ago. I realize I'm probably in the minority, but I actually preferred this season over the first one. The show has been renewed for 2017 and I'm looking forward to season 3.

I've also been watching the old Danish TV-series Matador and although I haven't finished it yet, I can say with certainty that this is one of the best shows I've watched: Phenomenal stuff.

Oh, and I'm still waiting for season 4 of The Americans to arrive on Netflix. Though at this point, I must admit I'm sorely tempted to just watch it on putlocker or some other streaming site.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 19, 2016, 10:38:24 PM
Watching the first episode of The Night Of right now. Amused at how dumb Naz is during these first 30 minutes.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 19, 2016, 11:03:23 PM
I really liked The Night Of, personally.

As for Naz, he's a dumb teenager....who just happens to be in his early 20's, I think, but the idea is that he doesn't exactly think anything through.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 21, 2016, 05:58:57 PM
Onto episode 3. I am liking this, but I do wonder what it could have been like if James Gandolfini was alive to play Stone as intended. Turturro's fine, but sometimes he acts like an over-the-top Dennis Hoffman impersonator.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 26, 2016, 03:26:03 AM
I decided to rewatch Buffy on a whim, and I think my favorite part of finishing season 1 is that I can watch season 2 now. Although to be fair, while much of the first season is still dated, it's a little more charming than I remembered, and I especially like the little bit of dignity Cordelia was given as she is slowly being integrated into the group. Usually the bitchy popular girls have to go through hell before they can be accepted, but Cordy's punishment has yet to come. "Angel" and the finale are definitely still the highlights.

I'm not sure if I'm going to add Angel onto this rewatch, but I might put on a few episodes when I get to that point. I am thinking of putting the Firefly pilot on in the near future, however, either to see if my girlfriend can get into it (the horror elements of BtVS, no matter how hokey, are an instant turn-off) or just to see if I feel like giving that another go at some point as well.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 14, 2016, 06:45:19 PM
So, it's official. Y: The Last Man is coming to FX (http://nerdist.com/y-the-last-man-tv-series-coming-to-fx/).

I'm not sure how I feel about the showrunner, since what I've seen of his work doesn't leave me impressed. But I also have been anticipating American Gods and Logan, so I hope that he can do good with all of these.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on December 06, 2016, 10:24:22 AM
I'm four episodes into Westworld right now. Read up on how the showrunners wanted this to be like Blade Runner in tone and concept, and it shows. It's not very quiet about these inspirations, but I like it for that.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on December 09, 2016, 09:44:32 AM
And finished. Really liked that, especially Ford and Maeve's arcs. I'm sad that a second season won't come out until 2018 at the earliest, because I'm really interested as to where they can go from here.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on December 10, 2016, 12:50:42 AM
I also thought Westworld was a great show. Every episode kept me engaged and I always had trouble waiting for the next one. Hoping season 2 will be just as good!

The movie is pretty fun, too.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 12, 2016, 03:05:59 PM
This is a good article discussing OITNB's impact on current TV (http://www.vox.com/culture/2016/12/5/13821692/orange-is-the-new-black-netflix-review-oitnb-sopranos).
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 14, 2016, 12:51:52 PM
So I was thinking about my end of the year list for TV, and this is what I've got:

1. The Americans

That's it. And it's not that I haven't seen too many shows this year, this is all I can think about ranking.

-I had some problems with this season of both OITNB and Transparent (I only recently got into the latter recently btw- this year, but before this most recent season), although they're both strong enough to where I'd probably consider them my second and third choices.
-I'm still keeping up with most of the Marvel and DC shows (AOS and Gotham being the exceptions), but there's always a couple of ticks to each of these shows that prevents me from full-on loving them. I especially get irritated by the way the Netflix shows steer further away from their (relative) gritty realness and go more towards traditional comic book cliches by the second act. I'd argue that Jessica Jones handled this the best thus far, and the second season of Daredevil has the worst. But if I had to pick a favorite Marvel show this year, I'd say Agent Carter. And for DC, I've actually been enjoying Arrow the most this year, with the back half of season 4 and what we've had of season 5 be a major improvement over its weaker points in season 3.
-Better Call Saul is well-made, and does great with allowing Odenkirk to show off his range, but I seem to be in the minority to find the whole show to be kind of extra. I'm just not that excited by seeing Jimmy McGill become Saul, and while I can really get into the show during its best moments, at its more tedious points, I end up kind of wishing that Vince Gilligan left well enough alone.
-At this point, I'm just sticking GOT and Orphan Black out to see the endgame. They've been losing me in the past 2 seasons.
-I've been enjoying Ash vs Evil Dead more this season, and I really like how it's been using the original film in this arc, but I feel like I'll never fully love the show as long as Kelly's on. She's such a terrible actress, and shows no interest in improving. The energy the show uses on her would be better spent literally anywhere else IMO.
-The last season of The Good Wife was a mess. But honestly, the only place to go after that insane season 5 peak was down.
-I rate animation differently out of habit, but I've been enjoying those shows more this year. Archer, BoJack, and the CN shows have been fine in my book.
-And as for the People vs OJ... I haven't seen it yet. I'm aiming to get to it during the break.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on December 14, 2016, 01:07:59 PM
1. The Night Manager
2. Westworld
3. The Night Of
4. War & Peace
5. The Crown
6. The Expanse
7. Luke Cage
8. Stranger Things
9. Orphan Black
10. Martha and Snoop's Potluck Dinner Party
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 24, 2016, 06:33:42 PM
I feel like a heel for not getting to The People vs OJ earlier- this is one of the best series I've seen in a while. The amazing thing about it is how well the show does drama. Even though I'm familiar with the events, everything about the production compliments the details, and the pacing is fantastic.

This is definitely worth a watch.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 29, 2016, 07:53:54 PM
I just watched the pilot of Halt and Catch Fire, and wow, this is one of the most cliche-riddled pilots I've seen. The main character gets it on with a woman he just met in the first act, who later becomes a player in the series. Said main character is a somewhat likable fuck-up. There are more than one characters who like to scream. A hipster-ready yet rightly iconic set of musical choices are used around. Even the angles and lighting are nothing new.

That said, I'm cool with sticking around. I hear that season 1's just okay, but the next two are quite good.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 30, 2017, 08:59:17 AM
I talked about the passing of Mary Tyler Moore elsewhere, but not here.

Both of her major shows have had a profound impact on me, with TMTMS in particular being one of the series I've most looked up to. While I'm not particularly a big fan of her behind-the-scenes politics (apparently she's always leaned a little towards the right and was always mixed on being a feminist icon, increasingly so as the years went on), she still seemed to be a good person even until the end. And her performances are a big part of why her series work so well.

It's funny, I was thinking about how we haven't lost a big celebrity since the year started while I was working that day, then I went on break to discover her fate. At least she lived a good, long life.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 08, 2017, 02:21:02 PM
The Americans never fails to throw me off, while landing right where it needs to. It was interesting to see how well Elizabeth and Philip immediately transformed into their new roles, but that wasn't nearly as notable as Paige's success with her training. This was all great, but nothing compared to that killer last act. Whoever says silence isn't golden should check out how well the sequence was done.

I'm glad for the show to be back.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on March 23, 2017, 08:55:27 AM
Recently, season 4 of The Americans finally became available on Netflix over here and I finished it yesterday. Great as usual, I especially like what the show has done with Paige; she's become one of my favorite characters , which is something I honestly did not expect when I first started watching it.

On a completely unrelated note: Lately, I've been filled with an urge to re-watch Twin Peaks.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 24, 2017, 10:12:52 AM
I really like the direction the show has been going in with Paige. Although as much as I appreciate how The Americans has subverted the Sopranos format, one thing they've yet to do is to make the younger son more appealing. It's always the daughter that is an actually interesting character.

You know, the more I think about it, the more I've realized that Legion is what I wanted Twin Peaks to be, in that it's actually weird and not trying too hard to be subversive. Nothing ever felt organic on TP to me, but Legion's far more authentic.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 01, 2017, 05:42:27 PM
I've FINALLY gotten around to catching up with Halt and Catch Fire, and here's my general thoughts on the show:

Season 1- Fine, if nothing too special
Season 2- Big improvement
Season 3- Best Show on TV level

I've mentioned before my increasing disinterest with the Sopranos formula making up prestige TV, and the show sticks to that pretty well, especially early on. But I'm glad that I stuck around, because it does a good job of making all of the characters unique and likable in their own ways, and the drama worth caring about. I also really like the backdrop, as it focuses on something fresh with the early days of the internet, and has some great pay-off.

Right now, I think that I'm going to catch up on some animated stuff for a while, aside from my nighttime stuff and the series I catch up with weekly, which I'll be doing for HACF this summer. But I do want to get to Horace and Pete and Rectify soon.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Pharass on April 04, 2017, 08:15:10 AM
Quote from: Avaitor on March 24, 2017, 10:12:52 AMYou know, the more I think about it, the more I've realized that Legion is what I wanted Twin Peaks to be, in that it's actually weird and not trying too hard to be subversive. Nothing ever felt organic on TP to me, but Legion's far more authentic.

I haven't seen Legion, but I am interested in watching it. After all, Noah Hawley made  Fargo , which is easily among my favorite shows.
As for Twin Peaks, I know that it went off-rails after the killer was revealed, but up until that point, the show appealed to me on pretty much every level: Plot, characters, drama, humor, atmosphere, etc.
That said, I'm not sure when I'll get around to do a re-watch, though. There are other shows (both old and new) on my to-watch list that I haven't seen yet and, in the interest of fairness, I should give them priority.

Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on April 20, 2017, 05:31:55 AM
The Expanse just wrapped up its second season. It's been a fun ride so far, especially the scenes with Avasarala and Draper.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 14, 2017, 02:52:30 PM
This is the most reaching article I've read in a while (http://www.cbr.com/iron-fist-better-than-arrow/).
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 14, 2017, 03:34:11 PM
The guy who owns CBR must have had a stroke, because 90% of these articles are awful now. All of their good features like Comics Should Be Good are gone in favor of "15 Reasons Why this is bad" articles. Makes the late ComicsAlliance looks prestige.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 14, 2017, 08:42:49 PM
I understand that this is mostly a result of clickbait culture, but it's weird to go through their old articles and see some really cool stuff go by the wayside for "15 Reasons Why the 80's TMNT is the Best cartoon Ever".
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on May 14, 2017, 08:45:42 PM
Wonder if that's why someone said they had to block CBR on Twitter.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 14, 2017, 09:05:30 PM
It's been ages since I've read a comic site that I liked. I know people were mourning ComicsAlliance's death a month ago, but to me, they didn't produce anything worthwhile in years. Maybe comics journalism just isn't something that entices people, but it sucks when Bleeding Cool doesn't look that bad by comparison.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 17, 2017, 02:10:03 PM
I have a couple of questions about the Roseanne revival:

1- So apparently Barr has an explanation for Dan being alive, and we'll find out soon. I'm more curious as to how she got John Goodman back to begin with.
2- Is this going to affect Johnny Galecki's time on Big Bang Theory? If so, good.
3- Are they going to use both Beckys?
4- Will they actually do anything with DJ this time?
5- But seriously, why even bother? What show will be off limits from a return?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 17, 2017, 02:11:09 PM
I'm still waiting for the Fresh King of Bel-Air.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 10, 2017, 10:35:15 AM
RIP Adam West (http://variety.com/2017/tv/news/adam-west-dead-dies-batman-1202461532/)

I bought the first 2 seasons a while ago (yes, both sets of season 2), but haven't got around to watching them. I should do that soon.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on June 10, 2017, 06:45:22 PM
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DB_LvoxV0AAqCoP.jpg)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on June 11, 2017, 01:26:00 AM
Quote from: Avaitor on June 10, 2017, 10:35:15 AM
RIP Adam West (http://variety.com/2017/tv/news/adam-west-dead-dies-batman-1202461532/)

I bought the first 2 seasons a while ago (yes, both sets of season 2), but haven't got around to watching them. I should do that soon.
I have the Blu-ray collection and it's majestic. The HD remaster is beautiful.

RIP to the greatest Batman of all time, and my childhood hero. :'(
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 11, 2017, 11:34:41 AM
Calling this season of OITNB a clusterfuck would be putting it nicely. So I decided to check out GLOW, which has some of the same team, and it's definitely superior to this recent season, but I don't think that it has the weight of Orange at its best yet. But it does a good job of calling out the dumb stereotypes that the original show had, and building its characters. I'm definitely going to stick around for season 2.

And right now, I'm watching Horace and Pete. I wasn't expecting public access quality, but it makes a lot of sense. And I'm really liking it so far. The acting and writing are on point.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: gunswordfist on July 11, 2017, 04:05:53 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on May 17, 2017, 02:11:09 PM
I'm still waiting for the Fresh King of Bel-Air.
Smartest thing you've ever said.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 13, 2017, 01:33:42 PM
Not happy about The Americans not being nominated for Best Drama at the Emmys. This wasn't the show's best season, but it's still among the most exciting series out there, and hasn't had as steep of a decline as GOT did when it started to win.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on August 02, 2017, 01:29:02 AM
So about that Confederate show HBO has planning. On one hand, I think criticizing a show before it's even filmed is stupid, and given that D&D have espoused progressive values in Game of Thrones, I highly doubt any series they would make in the future would mutate into a vehicle for white supremacy propaganda. On the other, it is D&D, and I've really lost faith in their writing over the past two and a half seasons. Even novels that either of them individually wrote like City of Thieves never wowed me or anything, so I doubt they could pull off a show like this without fucking up storywise.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 08, 2017, 10:45:12 PM
So NBC wants more revivals (http://uproxx.com/tv/nbc-the-office-30-rock-revival-talk/).

I'm kind of surprised that The Office and 30 Rock are at the top of their list, since it feels like they just ended. And especially 30 Rock, since it was never a big hit in the ratings. The Office meanwhile feels like it would be pointless to bring back after Steve Carell left, but from what I can tell, even though most people wouldn't disagree that the show should have called it a day with Michael's departure, it still has fans coming back to it. The last couple of seasons don't seem to have the same kind of backlash HIMYM has.

ER sounds like a not bad idea if you focus on the right characters (if you can at least get Noah Wiley back, you've got a show IMO), but I'm surprised that they don't seem to be pushing harder for Cheers, Seinfeld, or Friends. Those are the more evergreen series, and if anything, the recent James Burrows special shows that there's always interest in Friends and Cheers (and Will & Grace to a lesser extent). At the same time, from what I've heard, none of these show's creators are interested, and I don't blame them.

But seriously, does every series need to be brought back? I understand the appeal of nostalgia, but a lot of these shows had conclusive endings that don't ask for much more. And most of these revivals fail to miss the mark, usually due to not letting the characters age properly (Gilmore Girls), the creators misunderstanding what made the original work in the first place (X-Files), or the original just not holding up to begin with (Full House). I can't really complain about there not being more creative, solid original programming out there, since this is a great era for television, but most of these series need to call it a day.

And side note, the new Will & Grace sounds awful. They're retconning the finale so the characters can act like their old selves again, a good decade after wrapping up. The original is already pretty dated to begin with, and I'm expecting it to be the worst of that.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: LumRanmaYasha on August 12, 2017, 05:40:53 PM
Revivals can work, but I feel like networks are just wasting their time banking on nostalgia rather than bringing back shows that there's merit in continuing. Like you said, many of these shows had conclusive endings or had already felt like they ran their course towards the end of their original runs. The only one of those shows that I'd be interested in if revived is The Office, and that's only if they just re-use the mockumentary concept of the show and make it about a new group of characters with very few of the original cast returning (especially not Jim and Pam, they did everything they could possibly do with those characters). Otherwise, I think they just let these series be and focus on cultivating new series rather than regurgitating older ones.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Spark Of Spirit on August 13, 2017, 09:40:11 PM
The fact that everything is a reboot these days is not encouraging as to gauging the current level of creativity in Hollywood. Is there no one who can write a new show in the same frame or with the same heart as those old shows? Do they need to repackage the same characters and stories?

I can't imagine anyone is asking for them. Most reboots don't do very well.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 15, 2017, 01:00:28 PM
I was pretty pleased with the Orphan Black finale, which surprised me since I haven't been too happy with the show in a while. As good of an idea as it sounded, I think the series showed its ass with the trans clone episode, as nothing about it really added up, and the show's issues with its writing only started to become more apparent from there. Although I do think that season 3 was the show's low point and the last 2 seasons have been improvements, I've accepted a while ago that I'm here for the performances as opposed to the story.

But it was somewhat refreshing to see the Neolution stuff resolved in the first third of the finale. Especially since the rest of it spent time with the sisterhood, and giving the core clones satisfying endings. It's a happy ending that doesn't go into Parks and Rec-style wish fulfillment.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on September 15, 2017, 05:15:16 PM
Oh yeah, and I also got around to watching The Defenders after I finished season 4 of BoJack. It was pretty decent, but I still don't see why this needed to happen. The four heroes work well together, but I feel that things would have worked just as well if each of their series were their own things with sporadic crossovers, especially if it means that The Hand never came into fruition and fucked up the back half of Daredevil S2. Speaking of which, similarly to Iron Fist, I'm still not a fan of Netflix's take on Elektra, and felt that her material was a weak point. But I generally enjoyed the other three hero's stuff, and it was fun to see them all interact with each other. I just wasn't in love.

Right now I'm watching the premiere of The Deuce, David Simon's new show. It's pretty good, way better than The Wire's pilot (still need to see Treme, though). I was just talking to a friend of mine who is very passionate about the history of the porn industry about how its rise in the 70's would make a good show, then we heard about this. I like the concept and how Simon and George Pelecanos develop their characters, so I'm definitely keeping up with it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on September 15, 2017, 05:17:44 PM
The main highlight of Defenders was getting to hear Sigourney Weaver say "Tsk tsk tsk... Baka."

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DHon0VRXcAAjOex.jpg)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on September 15, 2017, 05:23:22 PM
The first episode of The Deuce was kind of slow for me and didn't really pick up until the last half hour, but it's an interesting enough subject matter that I'll stick with it for at least a few more episodes.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on September 18, 2017, 02:11:56 PM
David Simon's shows are always slow burns that require a marathon watch over a week by week deal, which was why nobody cared about The Wire until after it ended. So I'll probably wait until the season ends so I can view it all.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 14, 2017, 11:47:43 AM
Just nabbed myself the Firefly Collector's Edition Blu-Ray. It comes in some really fancy leather packaging and it's a great item for the shelf. That said, it would have been nice if it came bundled with the movie as well, but at only $20 it was still a really good deal.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 21, 2017, 04:59:30 PM
Halt and Catch Fire's series finale was excellent, a great reminder of how the show went from a wannabe to a better Mad Men successor than Better Call Saul is a Breaking Bad successor. Here's a good article (https://www.vox.com/culture/2017/10/15/16473012/halt-and-catch-fire-finale-recap-amc-ten-of-swords) that explains the show's latter triumphs, and another that details (https://www.vox.com/culture/2017/10/17/16462246/series-finale-best-worst-tv-halt-and-catch-fire-americans) the finale's successes, while musing on other finales, and whether or not The Americans cans stick the landing.

On another note, I've only seen the first week of the DC shows, and I enjoyed all of their premieres enough, but if I'm not wowed by this season of Legends or Supergirl by my trip to Europe at the start of the month, I'm going to drop them. I;m having too many shows to catch up on, and not enough time for them, to stick to more mediocre ones.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 21, 2017, 06:58:31 PM
I'm a bit annoyed that The Flash did a repeat of their mistake in season three by ending the conflict brought up from the previous season finale in just one episode. There was a lot of potential to expand the story-line of Barry's absence for at least a few episodes before bringing him back in instead of throwing in a quick and easy fix. One has to wonder what was even the point of locking him within the Speed Force in the first place if he was just going to return right away (in terms of the narrative) without any major issues. Other than that, it's too early to tell how the rest of the season will play out yet.

Arrow has mostly managed to keep its momentum from last season's improvements going strong enough, so I'm legitimately enjoying it for the time being, despite have some overall issues with the writing.

As I said before, I was dropping Supergirl and Legends, so I haven't been following either of those shows, but based on what I've heard, it's basically more of the same so far, so I don't really think that I'm missing much.

In other news, The Deuce, while still not quite great in my eyes, has certainly been growing on me with each episode. I'll definitely be sticking around with this series.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 29, 2017, 09:10:14 PM
Season 2 of Stranger Things was all right. Doesn't quite reach the highs of the last season, and some characters like Mike get much less to do here. New characters were hit or miss. Like Max was okay even if it felt like she was only introduced so the gang could have another girl. But Billy was awful. Every 80s teen jock stereotype combined instead of actually making a character. And that's when Stranger Things loses me, the times when their pastiches of 80s movies stop becoming pastiches and turn into paper-thin ripoffs of other scenes and characters. It's what annoyed me about the teenagers plot from last season. Had all the annoyances of a John Hughes movie without any attempt to re-invent that kind of storytelling.

I also skipped episode 7 after the almost unanimous hatred of it on Twitter. It helped the beginning of episode 8 even picks up from the end of episode 6.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 29, 2017, 09:47:58 PM
I enjoyed it for what it was, but if I'm to be honest Stranger Things, while fun, was a bit over-hyped for me. Even season one was good, not great, looking back on it.

Season two stumbles in places but is still a fairly decent watch. I honestly didn't mind episode 7 that much. It experimented with something different but kept it to a self-contained episode because clearly the Duffer Brothers foresaw that there could be some backlash so this was a safer way for them to test the waters without derailing the entire season, but as a result it also feels completely out of place and unecessary in the grander narrative. It doesn't quite work out the way it was handled but it shows some potential if it were to be reworked into a more compelling story. Honestly, though, if I could give it credit for something, at least it was interesting in how different it was from everything else while still having a Stranger Things vibe to it. My biggest problem with the rest of the season was that most of what worked about it was a rehash of what already worked in the first season, which is playing it way too safe. I mean it was entertaining, but you can't help but feel like it's the TV equivalent of day-old leftovers.

As for Mike being absent from most of the season, I'm suspecting that's due to scheduling conflicts since he was also in the middle of filming "It" during this season's production, leaving him less available for screen-time.

I will say that this season's stand-out character for me was easily Steve. He has the most consistently compelling character arc out of anyone in this entire series, and it's refreshing to see a Bully character develop into a fully fleshed out and well-realized human being. I'm also just a sucker for redemption arcs, and his chemistry with Dustin in this season was both surprising and genuinely adorable to watch.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 30, 2017, 03:46:03 PM
Speaking of Netflix, they've cancelled House of Cards (http://deadline.com/2017/10/house-of-cards-canceled-kevin-spacey-scandal-netflix-season-six-1202197604/). Season 6 will be released as planned, but that will be the end.

Obviously this is due to the Kevin Spacey controversy, which if I recall right, this has come and gone in the rumor mill for years. That said, while I couldn't even get into the show during its peak years, from what I've heard, this sounds like an act of mercy.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 30, 2017, 04:25:29 PM
I couldn't take the show seriously anymore after this scene. (https://youtu.be/JOItiVhp3L0)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 05, 2018, 01:23:28 PM
There's something about Michael Schur's shows that rubs me the wrong way. I used to love Parks and Recreation, but the finale bugged me more than HIMYM's, and I haven't been able to go back to it that much. I think besides the notoriously rocky first season, the show started to show signs of wear when Leslie ran for office, and Schur's opposition to conflict became apparent. None of the show's attempts at antagonists have ever really worked. It made a good call by softening Ben down as season 3 went along, but if anything, that shows the problem with this show and Brooklyn 99, where everything and everyone is too damn agreeable. Issues are only briefly prevalent, and they always have a quick resolve. There has to be a fair compromise for everything. It feels inauthentic.

And going back to Brooklyn 99, I couldn't make it through that show, since it feels like it's written for tumblr. The show tries so hard to be woke at the expense of legitimate characterization that I can't buy it.

So I'm surprised that I've been sticking to The Good Place. And to be fair, aside from some great visual humor and game performances all around, I don't find it all that funny. But I really like its world-building and the core theme of what it means to be a good person. There's something good here that his other stuff doesn't do for me.

I'm thinking of doing The Leftovers and The Handmaid's Tale next, but I do also want to catch up on Tangled: The Series, so I can talk about it with my girlfriend. I'm also considering the new version of One Day at a Time.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 07, 2018, 04:20:07 PM
I have a question- is The Return worth watching if you don't like the original Twin Peaks?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on February 07, 2018, 06:29:04 PM
Maybe? The Return does expect you to watch the original show though in order to understand the plot, so that might be tough.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on February 08, 2018, 02:20:55 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on February 07, 2018, 04:20:07 PM
I have a question- is The Return worth watching if you don't like the original Twin Peaks?
Do you like David Lynch's movies? More specifically, do you like Fire Walk With Me? If not, you should probably give it a pass.

Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on February 07, 2018, 06:29:04 PM
Maybe? The Return does expect you to watch the original show though in order to understand the plot, so that might be tough.
Yeah, it won't make much sense unless you're familiar with the original series. You can skip the whole lame filler part in season 2 at least.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 08, 2018, 02:27:29 PM
Quote from: Foggle on February 08, 2018, 02:20:55 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on February 07, 2018, 04:20:07 PM
I have a question- is The Return worth watching if you don't like the original Twin Peaks?
Do you like David Lynch's movies? More specifically, do you like Fire Walk With Me? If not, you should probably give it a pass.
Kind of. I like his earlier short films, Eraserhead, and Elephant Man. And I'm hit or miss on Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive and The Straight Story. I recently saw Lost Highway, and I thought it was bullshit. I haven't done Fire Walk With Me yet. I do intend to, but I wanted to finish season 2 first, but I can't. Super Nadine is the worst thing ever.

My problem with the original series is that I think it tries so hard to be weird that it actually ends up being kind of boring. Very little of it works for me, with the soap opera satire being a particular lowlight. I've tried on two different occasions, but it's just not my thing.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on February 08, 2018, 03:33:15 PM
It's important to remember that David Lynch and Mark Frost had pretty much nothing to do with the original series after Laura's killer was apprehended (except for the series finale). Aside from introducing Super Nadine (who doesn't do much until the filler section), I don't think the show tried too hard to be weird until after they left. There's a certain naturalness to the bizarre mannerisms of characters like Dale and Jacoby that I think comes with the territory of Lynch's writing. I totally understand if you don't enjoy it but it's way different from something like Ben Horne's Civil War phase IMO.

If you liked Eraserhead you might like FWWM and The Return. I'd say the former feels very similar to his earlier work and the latter feels like a culmination of everything he's made to date.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 05, 2018, 06:23:33 PM
Y: The Last Man update (https://uproxx.com/hitfix/y-the-last-man-tv-series-fx/).

Hope this one works out!
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 18, 2018, 11:27:49 PM
I haven't had as much time to watch stuff as I'd like, to the point that I'm thinking of cutting more stuff from my schedule.

But I've found a little time to watch more of One Day at a Time. I watched the first season just before Jessica Jone's second started up, but never got around to picking up season 2 after that until now. I never thought much about the original- when I did my All in the Family watch a few years ago, I sampled some of Norman Lear's other shows, and it probably stood out the least for me. That said, this is easily one of the best multicam sitcoms in ages. It's big, broad, and not really subtle, but that's not a bad thing here. The acting and character writing feel authentic enough to make its tangent beats work, and it's also reliably funny in a way that a lot of other comedies today aren't. I'm glad that it got renewed, because I think there's a lot more to be done with the show.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 11, 2018, 04:30:06 PM
I watched some of Cobra Kai. Not really sure what to feel about the show, because sometimes it works, and I like flipping the roles between Daniel and Johnny, but it just seems weird as a whole. That said, this scene hit me hard in the chest. (https://youtu.be/36pAKgS_pn4)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on May 24, 2018, 10:06:44 AM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on May 11, 2018, 04:30:06 PMI watched some of Cobra Kai. Not really sure what to feel about the show, because sometimes it works, and I like flipping the roles between Daniel and Johnny, but it just seems weird as a whole. That said, this scene hit me hard in the chest. (https://youtu.be/36pAKgS_pn4)

I actually really enjoyed Cobra Kai. Granted, I had very low expectations for it, in that I was sure it would suck, but I was rather impressed with the quality of writing and acting here relative to the source material that it was working with. So even being half-way decent would be enough to win me over from that viewpoint, but as it stands it was a solid first season that manages to elevate the cheesy B-material material roots that it comes from into something a bit more heartfelt and nuanced while still retaining the same spirit of the original movie.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 31, 2018, 10:02:14 AM
Watched some episodes of 13 Reasons Why. It's hilariously awful. They somehow made me glad that the main character committed suicide. Characters do mindbogglingly stupid things just to stretch the plot to 13 episodes a season. All the intended relationships come off as forced and all the platonic friendships accidentally have more sexual chemistry to them. Oh, and this happens. (https://youtu.be/mJOc5ULmlD4)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 06, 2018, 10:33:45 PM
Finally saw the finale for The Americans. I can't say that was what I was expecting, but it makes all the more sense for it to finish the way the show ran- as cold, tense, and dynamic as anything. It's a definite contender IMO.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 06, 2018, 04:23:33 PM
I've been trying to watch The Leftovers on and off over the past few months, but work and other things kept getting in my way. I finally got around to finishing it earlier today, but I'm honestly surprised that I stuck around for so long, since I've never really been into it. The first season was especially dour, but that's what I've been told to expect. I just don't click with Lindelof's storytelling.

I do appreciate the way the series fleshed out its arc and characters without being as directly serialized as other shows in the post-Breaking Bad wake though. Individual episodes matter, and we need more of that in event TV.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on August 10, 2018, 12:13:34 AM
So I discovered this old PBS/Nickelodeon show called Vegetable Soup from a Youtube reviewer, (https://youtu.be/IeRLfsIA5bI) and I'm pleasantly surprised by how weird this is. It's such a shame that this is overlooked in Nickelodeon discussion, because it presents some topics and discussions that Nick hasn't touched in a while, or at least hasn't examined to this degree.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 29, 2018, 09:13:38 PM
The recent news of the Deadwood movie reminds me that I really need to finally see the series already. I actually picked up the first 2 seasons for cheap ages ago, but they've been sitting unused in a bag of of other unused DVDs since I moved here. So now I'm trying to decide if I should finally use them or start the full Frasier watch-through I've been meaning to do. I should have plenty of time for Deadwood, since they just had a cast reading, so I don't expect the movie to come out any earlier than spring 2020.

Until then, I've been watching Nathan for You when I get the chance. The show is delightfully absurd. Most of Fielder's concepts crack me up, but it's really his commitment to everything that seals the show. It's not hard to feel that he believes in every concept he comes up with, and that his shortcomings are genuine(ly funny). That said, it doesn't seem like a great binge watch, so it's probably for the best that I can only catch an episode or two on my days off and when I catch up with my other shows.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 30, 2018, 06:38:19 PM
In other news, this is a pretty good interview detailing the Netflix structure (https://www.rollingstone.com/tv/tv-features/why-netflix-dramas-sag-midseason-cindy-holland-interview-707986/).
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Mustang on October 06, 2018, 10:13:30 PM
It's been so long since I've watched anything new when it comes to anime (perhaps I'll try something new some day), but on the telly you can usually find me watching those cop show dramas. Right now it's mainly NCIS Los Angeles. I like the camaraderie of the characters and it makes me wish I had something similar at my work place. Not to mention that LL Cool J is the guy I try to model myself after. I'm not so sure I like Nia Long in the show though. Great lady and whatnot, but she doesn't fit with the crew.

The other show I watch heavily is Law & Order: SVU. I've always been a fan of the SVU series. I thought when Christopher Meloni left that the show would get stale but the series has been hitting closer to home with a lot of the cases resembling what goes on in the world.

I've also been binge watching Daredevil on Netflix as well. Great stuff.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 07, 2018, 06:33:53 PM
New Doctor Who makes for a sort of refreshing debut, though I admit I actually miss Moffat.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 07, 2018, 11:45:47 PM
Until this weekend, I honestly forgot that DW was still on. The last time I tried to watch it was a couple of Christmas specials ago, when my general reaction was "Why am I still watching this?" and turned it off after 5 minutes.

I did finally get around to finishing Nathan for You the other day, and "Finding Frances" in particular didn't disappoint. It's all at once a culmination of the show's ethics, combining outrageous concepts with a palpable heart and surprising craft behind it. If this is the series finale, and signs are pointing towards it (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HSKMMBW), it's ending on a damn fine note.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 08, 2018, 04:04:42 AM
Quote from: Avaitor on October 07, 2018, 11:45:47 PM
Until this weekend, I honestly forgot that DW was still on. The last time I tried to watch it was a couple of Christmas specials ago, when my general reaction was "Why am I still watching this?" and turned it off after 5 minutes.
Oh don't be a sourpuss. I thought Series 10 ended on a high note.

As for what's been on Netflix, American Vandal's second season was interesting. It lacked some of the pluses season one had, but it did expand on some other things like how school outcasts could easily influence school society simply through a phone and some pictures. It wasn't nearly as funny as the first season, but it offered more ideas, and I don't know if that evened out. Kevin McClain in particular was a real work to dissect throughout the season.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 23, 2018, 09:08:08 PM
On an impulse, I bought all five seasons of Babylon 5 for $20. On the one hand, this is a really good deal, since it's still likely to find some of these sets for this price, but on the other, I just haven't had the time to watch much lately, especially in binge format.

But I can finally get to it when I have the chance.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on November 24, 2018, 03:19:07 AM
Quote from: Avaitor on November 23, 2018, 09:08:08 PM
On an impulse, I bought all five seasons of Babylon 5 for $20. On the one hand, this is a really good deal, since it's still likely to find some of these sets for this price, but on the other, I just haven't had the time to watch much lately, especially in binge format.

But I can finally get to it when I have the chance.
Where'd you find that deal? I wanna get them too!
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 24, 2018, 07:22:16 PM
Quote from: Foggle on November 24, 2018, 03:19:07 AM
Quote from: Avaitor on November 23, 2018, 09:08:08 PM
On an impulse, I bought all five seasons of Babylon 5 for $20. On the one hand, this is a really good deal, since it's still likely to find some of these sets for this price, but on the other, I just haven't had the time to watch much lately, especially in binge format.

But I can finally get to it when I have the chance.
Where'd you find that deal? I wanna get them too!
A local pawn shop had the series. It was probably a bit less than what they wanted, but they took my offer anyway, even after designating it to layaway.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 23, 2018, 06:49:04 PM
It's around that time of year when I play catch-up on some of the programs that aired this year, and I started off with Killing Eve. I was liking its MI5 setting and the earlier cat and mouse chasing, but I wasn't feeling the back half as much. Most of the twists and revelations fell flat for me, and while I admire its sexuality, I didn't really buy the pending relationship at the end. I'll stick around for the second season, but it's not my favorite.

Next up is My Brilliant Friend.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on December 24, 2018, 03:51:02 PM
Watched the first two episodes a couple days ago. Villanelle reminds me too much of Ruth Wilson in Luther, and every other "cute girl who turns out to be a psychopathic murderer" character. It's like watching a generic anime character in live-action, which is jarring to say the least.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 02, 2019, 04:47:58 PM
Just finished The Haunting of Hill House. I've always found Mike Flanagan's works to be somewhat interesting, but none really managed to stick with me. That said, this series actually did manage to win me over. I have some issues with how self-indulgent the writing can get in later episodes, but it did manage to hold my interest the entire way through and genuinely surprise me in good ways with it's storytelling. The directing was the real star here, though. Were that not handled as well as it was in most episodes, this show would be just another American Horror Story to me.

I will say that I don't find it to be scary, though. Judged purely on horror, it's not really that effective, but I tend to view it more as a psychological suspense thriller with horror elements, myself.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 02, 2019, 05:02:38 PM
Oh yeah, that's another show I meant to get to. I will soon, but I'm not sure when. I kind of wanted to read the original novel first, but I'm not sure if I'll have time for that. I have seen the 1960's film and parts of the 90's remake, but I'm not 100% sure if those are the same thing.

I got around to My Brilliant Friend, which I really liked. It reminded me of a more female-centered Italian new wave film, right down to its occasional sadistic moments. I really liked the friendship between Elena and Lila, but the rest of the cast was surprisingly solid as well, and had plenty to offer. I'm definitely curious to see how the next season goes, but I may also end up reading the books, if my mom still have them.

Also, RIP Bob Einstein
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 02, 2019, 05:09:10 PM
Well, while technically based on the original novel, it has about as much in common with it's source material as Blade Runner does with Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep, so it's best treated as it's own original series that takes some inspiration from the novel and the classic movie adaptation.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on January 22, 2019, 09:25:19 PM
Started the first season of The Americans, and I'm four episodes in. The cat-and-mouse game is fun, but I'm waiting for the show to go beyond "Elizabeth and Philip put on wigs and murder people".
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 22, 2019, 10:43:05 PM
If I recall right, it does take a little bit for the ball to start rolling, when it starts questioning Phillip and Elizabeth's duty to each other, and it becomes more apparent that Stan isn't going to find much out anytime soon. Not because he isn't smart enough, but he's going to have enough shit to take care of.

I finished The Terror the other day, which is pretty damn cool, and makes me want to read more about the lost Arctic expedition. Even on its own though, it builds such great tension that kept me drawn throughout.

I also saw the first episode of Deadly Class, which was meh. It felt more like a celebration of the stock high school and superhero archetypes on screen than a deconstruction, and a cool soundtrack couldn't save an average script and camerawork. I'll probably give it a little more of a shot, but I might just stick to the comics instead, as I got the first volume for dirt cheap a while ago.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on February 11, 2019, 09:58:48 AM
(https://i.redd.it/pdgvx0wn07021.jpg)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 08, 2019, 09:04:22 PM
The Good Place will end with this coming season (https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/good-place-end-season-4-nbc-1207303?fbclid=IwAR20LaWVGbFoEp1p7bUg8kI7H_5YhvF-ZMet9j3Sp2gsrRzj0GPWm5pdlWw).

I've been enjoying the show (although season 3 did drag at times- it got better after they left Australia, mostly), but this is for the best. Such a high-concept show can't run forever, and I'm hoping they found a good place to end.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on June 09, 2019, 12:35:12 AM
Chernobyl was pretty good. Tense in all the right moments. Haunting atmosphere. Relevant message in light of recent talks about the world's future. And it came from the guy who wrote those awful spoof movies like Scary Movie 3 and Superhero Movie.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Mustang on June 30, 2019, 10:12:13 PM
Any sports fans? NBA? Free Agency has been crazy. I'm laughing at Knicks fans, hoping they don't commit suicide (praying for Stephen A Smith). I'm actually shocked the Pistons was able to land Derrick Rose. I heard talks about it, but I didn't think it'd actually happen. So, while it's nothing big I am happy that Detroit actually did something (I wouldn't exactly call D-Rose a nobody, but he is a shell of his former self, but he changed his game and I like what I saw from him last year) Any other time they do nothing or make a silly decision (Reggie Jackson)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 01, 2019, 12:51:26 AM
I've been watching the first season of The Good Place. Wasn't really expecting this show to be so serialized. Feels like a show that was meant to be binged on Netflix, but somehow got stuck on NBC. It's a pleasant surprise though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on November 06, 2019, 08:46:18 AM
The premiere for His Dark Materials was actually pretty great. I've actually been re-reading the trilogy in preparation for the show and they are even better books than I remember when I was a kid. Easily way more interesting and well thought-out than you'd expect from a series of  children/young adult novels. Glad to see it getting a genuinely good adaptation, at least so far.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 08, 2019, 09:54:31 PM
Just watched the first episode of HDM. Fun to see Clarke Peters here.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on November 08, 2019, 10:53:44 PM
The casting is pretty great all around, especially Daphne Keen as Lyra, who's proven to be a genuinely good child actor in Logan and is doing a good job here as well. I will admit that James McAvoy as Lord Asriel always struck me as an odd choice since he doesn't really have the kind of demeanor that I associated with the character. That said, he does a decent job so long as I think of him as an alternative interpretation of the character for the show.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 09, 2019, 12:42:58 AM
Yeah, McAvoy seemed like he wasn't doing his own interpretation of Asriel, but instead trying to emulate Daniel Craig's version from the shitty 2007 movie.

Speaking of which, it's insane looking at the credits of that film and seeing all these stars like Nicole Kidman, Sam Elliot, Christopher Lee, Eva Green, Ian McShane, Ian McKellen, and Derek Jacobi. I know that since this film was New Line's attempt to ride Harry Potter's coattails, they followed that franchise's habit of shoving every famous classically-trained actor they could find into the cast, but it's weird and a little bit sad to see all that money and starpower wasted on that adaptation. Still interesting to compare the film and the show. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=luwJTcpPZdE)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 09, 2019, 12:37:39 PM
I have no experience with HSM, but I enjoyed the first episode alright. Not sure if this will be the new Game of Thrones, but I'm interested in sticking around for now.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on November 09, 2019, 01:58:34 PM
It's based on a series of children's novels that's known for having a lot of adult themes and interesting and challenging themes for it's age demographic. It's not quite ASOIAF in that regard, but it holds up really well for any age just for how dedicated the story-telling is to portraying both it's characters and moral dilemmas in complex and nuanced ways that make them far less like ordinary Fantasy or Sci-Fi characters (this series also blurs the lines between those two genres, which is great). And while not having a Game of Thrones level body count, this series doesn't shy away from darker elements and multiple established characters do die, including children.

I'd recommend checking out the books if you ever get a chance. They are very eloquently written despite their intended age demographic since Phillip Pullman is an author who has a deeply passionate respect for classic literature and understands how to tell a story to young audiences without ever talking down to them. Such is the case that even James McAvoy said in an interview that he read these books back in his early 20's and was blown away by how advanced the concepts it was presenting were, which is what attracted him to play Lord Asriel in the first place. Pullman also has a rather outspoken disdain for religion and has some other controversial views, some of which is inserted into his work, but for the most part manages to keep his stories from becoming too encumbered by his personal beliefs.

That said, the premiere was excellent, so if the rest of the show can maintain this level of quality, then it definitely makes for a faithful and excellent adaptation of the source material.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on November 11, 2019, 11:21:27 PM
Kind of surprised the show is already tipping it's hat by foreshadowing material from the sequel books, as well as straight up showing the existence of what is essentially our world which was a big reveal in the beginning of book two. Still, the writing, directing, and acting are so on point that it manages to make it all work, IMO.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on November 12, 2019, 03:17:08 PM
So, I signed up for a free trial of Disney + and the service has constantly kept crashing on me. I looked online and I seem to be far from the only one with this issue. While I'm sure these are things that will get worked out, one wonders why a major corporation like Disney couldn't make sure their product actually works before releasing it. I'll probably cancel before my trial week ends and wait until they have more content and announce that they have fixed their servers.

And if you're curious on my thoughts, I liked the premiere of The Mandalorian. It's nothing all that impressive outside of its production value (for a mini-series), but it was fairly entertaining with some good world building.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 24, 2019, 07:50:36 AM
The first episode of Mandalorian felt more Star Trek than Star Wars. Maybe it was the blue alien in the first act, or the Mandalorian armor process scene felt very familiar to some Klingon rituals (that's not specifically this show's fault, Star Wars has been trying for a long time to make Mandalorians their franchise's Klingons), but I thought it was okay. I perked up when the IG droid showed up and kept attempting to commit suicide, but then he died. Wish he stayed around for at least one more episode.

Furthermore, this is adorable.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EKF0DgiUwAElqKD.jpg:large)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on November 27, 2019, 01:26:02 PM
Really glad that they got Iorek's character right this time around. I love Ian Mckellen, but I remember him playing the character a bit too majestically and typical of a fantasy character. The new show portrays him as a gruff, ill-tempered killing machine which is part of who he is, though he has a clever side as well that we have yet to see.

My one criticism is that the show has been paced a tad too slow for my liking. Not sure if they are dragging things out to meet a specific episode count, but there are easily a number of filler scenes that could be cut out completely and not effect the story in any significant way.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 27, 2019, 02:22:34 PM
Filler or padding was inevitable, since these are 400-page books adapted into 8-hour seasons. Maybe they could have taken ideas from the HDM prequel (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Belle_Sauvage) if they were starved for ways to stretch the story out.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on November 27, 2019, 02:39:26 PM
They have inserted in material from other books and short stories set in the Universe, but obviously they can't cut away to any of those  things outside of Easter Eggs here and there as it would disrupt the narrative flow of the story. That said, if they expand on other characters like Scoresby among others, that would be a good use of their time. They've already been doing that for Mrs. Coulter which has lead to the best of the show's original scenes thus far, IMO.

At any rate, this is one of those slow burn series, even in the books (the last third of the first book is where it really grabbed me to begin with), so I feel like the show may end up playing out very similarly.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on December 23, 2019, 02:49:41 AM
FX and the BBC collaborated on another adaptation of A Christmas Carol (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNxZazunHF0). and it's so edgy. Scrooge becomes a victim of child molestation who gets people killed, and almost rapes Mrs. Cratchit. I watched half of it, the second half specifically, and while I can appreciate expanding Mary Cratchit's character and the grim atmosphere the creator borrows from his previous work in Peaky Blinders and Taboo, it felt exactly like something Bill Murray's character from Scrooged would have produced.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on January 09, 2020, 03:49:25 PM
Watched the first episode of The Witcher. I know jackshit about the franchise beyond they're based off of a series of Polish books that continued into video games, and the only thing I know about the games is Charles Dance plays a character heavily similar to Tywin Lannister. Speaking of, the comparisons to that other fantasy show that ended last year were lurking in my head, but they were superficial at best. But for the show itself, I thought the swordfight was pretty cool, though the plot hasn't hooked me yet.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 10, 2020, 04:37:35 PM
I finally caught up on Succession. It was nice to have Holly Hunter here for a bit to be a part of the show's Fox merger parallels, It would've been nice to keep her on for more, but it felt like that material was running its course anyway. It's funny that I liked that arc as much as I did, because I tend to agree that the show works better as a Shakespearan tragedy than a satire.

On a sidenote, Christ, is Ronan fucked up.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on February 11, 2020, 06:16:51 PM
I watched The Mandalorian when it was releasing episodes regularly, and I really enjoyed it. I liked how it told a small story that just exists in the Star Wars universe. In many ways, I think it's the best thing Disney has done with the franchise yet.

Then, there is The Good Place finishing its run. This is legitimately one of my favorite shows I ever watched. Something about it just struck a cord with me. First is that it never dipped in quality, nor can I think of any real blemishes in it. In terms of comedy, I think it's just as funny as The Office or Parks and Rec (made by at least partially the same team). I love the story and how every seasons is different, and I love how high the stakes are despite it always taking itself fairly lightly. And I appreciated the themes of the show and how it addressed them without trying too hard.

Also, can I mention the Super Bowl here? Can't think of anywhere else to, so I'll just say I was very pleased this year. If the Eagles can't take home the win (and yes, the 2018 Super Bowl was my favorite football game I've ever seen), the second best thing is seeing Andy Reid finally get his time with the Chiefs. I swear I thought they were going to lose until those last few minutes, when they suddenly played some of the best offense I've seen. The halftime show was one of the best in recent memory, and we even got some fun commercials. It was a great game.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on February 11, 2020, 07:40:21 PM
I was just curious if you still keep up with wrestling, Talon?

I myself have VERY loosely followed the WWE over the past half year since only a handful of storylines have actually caught my interest (I will say that the most recent Royal Rumble was surprisingly good, though).

However, I've been really enjoying AEW since it's inception, though since I'm the only person I know who actually enjoys wrestling, I've never had anyone to discuss it with.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on February 11, 2020, 08:17:00 PM
Quote from: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on February 11, 2020, 07:40:21 PM
I was just curious if you still keep up with wrestling, Talon?

I myself have VERY loosely followed the WWE over the past half year since only a handful of storylines have actually caught my interest (I will say that the most recent Royal Rumble was surprisingly good, though).

However, I've been really enjoying AEW since it's inception, though since I'm the only person I know who actually enjoys wrestling, I've never had anyone to discuss it with.

I actually stopped following WWE maybe a year or so after the brand split sometime around 2016. Not because it had gotten any worse, but because it got to the point where there was just so much material to stay on top of in order to properly follow it (too many hours to follow ever week, pay per views every other week, etc.). I eventually just burned out, and since the brand was far past its prime, anyway, I just couldn't make my way back to it. I do know a few of the stories that have happened (I was a big fan of Becky Lynch, and knowing she headlined WrestleMania last year is really cool), and that Roman Reigns left for a while dealing with cancer which is sad for sure.

As for AEW, I haven't really followed it, but a friend that likes wrestling has said it's apparently really good!
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on February 11, 2020, 08:39:45 PM
Yeah, that (among some really bad writing decisions for various story lines) is WWE's biggest problem: content overload. It's simply unfeasible to keep up with 3 different brands within the same company, especially when one of those shows is 3 hours a week. That's why I only check in with certain story lines and only ever bother with the major PPV events like Royal Rumble or Wrestlemania, and keep up with the rest through weekly recap videos that shorten it out to the gist of what happens in each episode.

AEW is such a breath of fresh air since aside from it's talent being allowed more creative freedom and not being tied down to awful scripts, it's all one unified brand with one show a week, plus a free weekly YouTube show of dark matches which are not usually tied down to the main story so it's optional supplemental content for some of the mid-carders to show off. The PPVs are also about every 3 months on average, so far, so it's much more manageable to keep up with.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Mustang on February 20, 2020, 03:15:33 PM
I also used to watch WWE (especially back with Attitude and WCW Nitro days). I tend to watch every now and then and I grow bored very quickly because a lot of these wrestlers are practically the same in my eyes. The only ones that actually get me pumped is Bray Wyatt, Roman Reigns and the Usos' (Randy Orton every now and then). And then from the women division, Charlotte and Asuka are the ones I like (I haven't been able to catch NXT, but I heard that a lot of the women there are good). After that, it seems like everyone is trying to be a combination of Stone Cold and Shawn Michaels put together. I acknowledge the talent but do you really need everyone trying to be this badass tough guy but on the small side? And then I'm like, where are all the big men at to challenge Brock Lesnar? (I see claymore dude, and I hope he wins).

I haven't been able to catch AEW either. My brother tells me it's really good though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on February 20, 2020, 06:44:36 PM
I'm actually really liking the Drew McIntyre vs. Lesnar angle, and that along with the Randy Orton vs. Edge angle (potentially, anyways) are easily the most interesting things that the WWE has going into Wrestlemania this year.

But I'm pretty much in agreement for the most part. The WWE roster is so dense and overpopulated with a lot of same-y feeling characters. That's not to take away from the talent of the professionals working for them, but it does feel like way too much of a crowd to really identify with real strong individual superstars that have some genuine staying power. On the one hand, it is good that there are so many more opportunities for people working in such an underrated and largely underpaid industry outside of a company as big as this one. On the other hand, it's also nearly impossible to get any new talent over these days when you have a ludicrous amount of wrestlers vying for the spotlight that only a few can reasonably achieve.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 23, 2020, 05:10:20 PM
So I'm only really more of a casual Star Trek fan. I've seen all of the movies, but only made it through a scattered handful of episodes of all of the shows. I came into Picard with a superficial understanding of TNG, but so far, I'm enjoying it. It definitely feels more like a contemporary sci-fi show than classic Trek, but that's what you get when the franchise has mostly been dormant on the small screen for about 15 years. The new characters are pretty decent so far, and it was nice to see Seven of Nine again.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on March 01, 2020, 10:44:45 AM
Since we were on the subject of wrestling for a bit, I just watched AEW's Revolution PPV live last night, and my god was that event hype as fuck. The Kenny Omega & "Hangman" Adam Page Vs. The Young Bucks World Tag-Team Championship match was not just worth the price of admission alone, but is maybe one of the greatest pro wrestling performances that I've seen in my entire life. I'm still blown away just thinking about it. And this is literally just days after Omega's 30-minute Iron Man match with Pac, which was also considered a match-of-the-year contender.

If anyone ever had the slightest interest in pro wrestling and AEW in particular, now is literally the perfect time to jump on the bandwagon. The show has been on fucking fire this year.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on April 15, 2020, 07:45:57 PM
Hey, guys! Hopefully you're all safe during this pandemic. Weird era, right?

Even though we don't watch WWE anymore, and haven't for a while, a few of my friends decided to have a Zoom conference and watch the two nights of WrestleMania. Considering the fact that it had to be held in the WWE Performance Center with no life audience, I think it turned out pretty well. The highlight for me was Styles versus Undertaker. In a way, I almost wish they had done more cinematic style matches like that (and Cena versus Wyatt), being that the show as it was couldn't help but feel like it was missing that high energy of a massive stadium, effects driven Superbowl-esque traditional WrestleMania. Still, I enjoyed the event as a whole and like that they broke it up into two nights.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on April 15, 2020, 11:31:52 PM
I personally feel bad for Drew McIntyre essentially being deprived of having his big first title win moment being held in front of a full stadium of cheering fans. It's especially disappointing when you go back and see how over he was during and after winning the Royal Rumble. I hope that he still gets a push that will last long enough for him to still be a top guy when people are finally able to go back to attending live events.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on April 17, 2020, 05:52:22 PM
I'm not completely sure how the show became so popular in so little time, but I watched Tiger King and thought it was great. Like those episodes of King of the Hill where a new guy shows up in Arlen and ruins Hank's day, except that guy's the main character and he brought friends.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 11, 2020, 03:57:49 PM
I finally got around to watching The Mandalorian. I haven't had a taste for Star Wars in a long time, so I remained ambivalent about it for a while, until quarantine boredom hit.

I liked it, didn't love it. I like how every episode is its own story that fits into the bigger picture, which fits with the Star Wars structure pretty well, even if it primarily sticks to the same few characters. Mando's a surprisingly well-built character, and he's given a decent cast to balance out with. It has good energy throughout, and I feel that the episodes almost never overstay their welcome.

However, while I like almost everything individually, I just couldn't get that invested. It felt like more of a time waster than a must-watch to me. Maybe if I watched it every week with the rest of the country, rather than a few episodes a night, I'd be more gung-ho about it. But this is the first time I was particularly interested in a Star Wars project since the first season of The Clone Wars, so that says something.

I'll probably give Rogue One a shot someday, as well. I've also been interested in replaying KOTOR for a while. I doubt that I'll ever get to the sequel trilogy, though. But maybe if I'm bored enough, I'll watch all of The Clone Wars.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 07, 2020, 12:28:48 AM
Was pretty surprised by Tales from the Loop. It's like a alt-Black Mirror, where technology gets to have its good and bad qualities and how we can connect with it, as opposed to Black Mirror's "derr hur science is bad and thomas edison is a witch" hot takes.

I also really like how small the show feels. Sometimes it feels like sci-fi is getting bigger and scaled up, while this keeps the stake personal and quiet, which I quite liked.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on June 07, 2020, 01:43:12 AM
Quote from: Avaitor on June 07, 2020, 12:28:48 AMas opposed to Black Mirror's "derr hur science is bad and thomas edison is a witch" hot takes.
Brooker's milked the Black Mirror formula dry. How many times can the show say "Wouldn't it be spooky if your mind was in a computer?"

Anyway, What We Do in The Shadows is really fun. It's like a modern day Addams Family. A little drained on the mockumentary format, but this show handles it better than most.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 07, 2020, 11:06:29 AM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on June 07, 2020, 01:43:12 AM
Quote from: Avaitor on June 07, 2020, 12:28:48 AMas opposed to Black Mirror's "derr hur science is bad and thomas edison is a witch" hot takes.
Brooker's milked the Black Mirror formula dry. How many times can the show say "Wouldn't it be spooky if your mind was in a computer?"
Right. I did enjoy the first couple of seasons, but I don't think that I even finished the first Netflix run. I think that Brooker has said everything he needs to say by now.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on June 07, 2020, 09:29:16 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on June 07, 2020, 11:06:29 AM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on June 07, 2020, 01:43:12 AM
Quote from: Avaitor on June 07, 2020, 12:28:48 AMas opposed to Black Mirror's "derr hur science is bad and thomas edison is a witch" hot takes.
Brooker's milked the Black Mirror formula dry. How many times can the show say "Wouldn't it be spooky if your mind was in a computer?"
Right. I did enjoy the first couple of seasons, but I don't think that I even finished the first Netflix run. I think that Brooker has said everything he needs to say by now.
You can tell even Brooker's tired of his own formula. Black Museum was a pisstake at the show itself for example. Really, Black Mirror has difficulty catching up with the viewer. It knows the viewers expect a horrific dystopian ending with a dark message. It opened on an episode that ended with the message "some politicians are so horrible that bestiality could improve their standing with the public" and never stopped. But then it got tired, and we ended up with "is it really gay if you want to fuck your best friend's avatar?" or "Did you know Miley Cyrus hated being Hannah Montana?"

Speaking of, I played Bandersnatch recently, long after everyone else did. The Choose Your Own Adventure shit's fun, but once you get past that, it has nothing much to say beyond "How dare you control someone's life?!" And that message doesn't work either because the episode scolds you for making the wrong moves, and all the endings are bad ends. The Netflix ending was pretty funny though.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 05, 2020, 03:32:33 PM
Watching Upload is almost like seeing Greg Daniels try to make his own version of The Good Place.

Well, they do have different goals- The Good Place is more about morality, and what by definition makes us a good person, and if we can change. Upload explores this a little, but it's more focused on how death can affect your loved ones and your legacy. I have to admit that I wasn't as interested in Nathan's story as I was seeing some of the other characters in here. We don't learn a whole lot about Luke, but it's implied that he doesn't have anyone checking on him from Lake View, and he only got accepted there due to his military status. That and the kid who struggles to see his friends grow up on earth while he stays perpetually twelve stuck to me.

I wasn't as impressed with the Nathan-Nora-Ingrid love triangle, and really didn't care for the murder mystery subplot. It kind of feels like these were added to justify the need to binge the show, and give it a serialized format. Neither element really works all that well IMO. They were already selling me with the show's concept of the afterlife. You don't need to keep trying to sell yourself further.

While Michael Schur's shows tend to be too unreasonably nice and sweet for their own good, Daniels isn't afraid to make his characters bastards, and mostly stay that way during the show. After struggling to truly love The Good Place, and having no use for Brooklyn Nine-Nine, I do appreciate the shades of darkness in Nathan, and how unpleasant Ingrid and Luke could be. I'll admit that at the same time, I don't really love any of these characters, but I'm curious to come back when season 2 comes out.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 21, 2020, 08:47:20 PM
Watched the first episode of Dark. Very atmospheric show with a lot to take in. Not sure if I want more though. I've heard really good things about it, but not sure it's my kind of thing, even if I do like dark time-travel shit.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on July 30, 2020, 08:59:01 AM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on June 07, 2020, 09:29:16 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on June 07, 2020, 11:06:29 AM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on June 07, 2020, 01:43:12 AM
Quote from: Avaitor on June 07, 2020, 12:28:48 AMas opposed to Black Mirror's "derr hur science is bad and thomas edison is a witch" hot takes.
Brooker's milked the Black Mirror formula dry. How many times can the show say "Wouldn't it be spooky if your mind was in a computer?"
Right. I did enjoy the first couple of seasons, but I don't think that I even finished the first Netflix run. I think that Brooker has said everything he needs to say by now.
You can tell even Brooker's tired of his own formula. Black Museum was a pisstake at the show itself for example. Really, Black Mirror has difficulty catching up with the viewer. It knows the viewers expect a horrific dystopian ending with a dark message. It opened on an episode that ended with the message "some politicians are so horrible that bestiality could improve their standing with the public" and never stopped. But then it got tired, and we ended up with "is it really gay if you want to fuck your best friend's avatar?" or "Did you know Miley Cyrus hated being Hannah Montana?"

Speaking of, I played Bandersnatch recently, long after everyone else did. The Choose Your Own Adventure shit's fun, but once you get past that, it has nothing much to say beyond "How dare you control someone's life?!" And that message doesn't work either because the episode scolds you for making the wrong moves, and all the endings are bad ends. The Netflix ending was pretty funny though.

Black Mirror is a bit hit or miss, for me. San Junipero was honestly one of my favorite episodes of television in the modern era, and I also loved a few other episodes (like Nosedive). However, aside from those select few episodes, I mostly find myself enjoying episodes, chewing on them for a minute or two afterward, and then never coming back to them. I wonder if we will get another season out of it.

Quote from: Avaitor on July 05, 2020, 03:32:33 PM
Watching Upload is almost like seeing Greg Daniels try to make his own version of The Good Place.

Well, they do have different goals- The Good Place is more about morality, and what by definition makes us a good person, and if we can change. Upload explores this a little, but it's more focused on how death can affect your loved ones and your legacy. I have to admit that I wasn't as interested in Nathan's story as I was seeing some of the other characters in here. We don't learn a whole lot about Luke, but it's implied that he doesn't have anyone checking on him from Lake View, and he only got accepted there due to his military status. That and the kid who struggles to see his friends grow up on earth while he stays perpetually twelve stuck to me.

I wasn't as impressed with the Nathan-Nora-Ingrid love triangle, and really didn't care for the murder mystery subplot. It kind of feels like these were added to justify the need to binge the show, and give it a serialized format. Neither element really works all that well IMO. They were already selling me with the show's concept of the afterlife. You don't need to keep trying to sell yourself further.

While Michael Schur's shows tend to be too unreasonably nice and sweet for their own good, Daniels isn't afraid to make his characters bastards, and mostly stay that way during the show. After struggling to truly love The Good Place, and having no use for Brooklyn Nine-Nine, I do appreciate the shades of darkness in Nathan, and how unpleasant Ingrid and Luke could be. I'll admit that at the same time, I don't really love any of these characters, but I'm curious to come back when season 2 comes out.

I loved The Good Place. Might just be different tastes, but for me, it was one of those shows where just everything worked from start to finish. Do you think I should give Upload a shot?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 30, 2020, 12:19:16 PM
I like The Good Place alright, but I struggle with Schur's shows. This is the best explanation as to why that I can think of (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nu44FTsE90Q), especially towards the bullshit that is Brooklyn Nine-Nine. His stuff is just too nice for its own good, to the point where it seems like it hurts him to add conflict to any of his characters. There's no punch, no fire.

Upload is alright. I think I wanted something different from it than what Greg Daniels and co wanted to do with it, but it's worth checking out.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on July 30, 2020, 02:17:29 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on July 30, 2020, 12:19:16 PM
I like The Good Place alright, but I struggle with Schur's shows. This is the best explanation as to why that I can think of (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nu44FTsE90Q), especially towards the bullshit that is Brooklyn Nine-Nine. His stuff is just too nice for its own good, to the point where it seems like it hurts him to add conflict to any of his characters. There's no punch, no fire.

Upload is alright. I think I wanted something different from it than what Greg Daniels and co wanted to do with it, but it's worth checking out.

By the way Avaitor,, over the course of this pandemic, I finally saw Community when it went to Netflix. It's a good show, but I think for me it showcases why Schur and Daniel are my favorites in the sitcom business. I find that it comes off as kind of mean spirited very often. This, coupled with Chevy Chase being Chevy Chase in a show that's so hindered by him and his character, contrasts with something like The Office, which can be a downer at times but I rarely find to come off as unlikable (its first season being a noteworthy exception).
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 30, 2020, 02:55:07 PM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on July 30, 2020, 02:17:29 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on July 30, 2020, 12:19:16 PM
I like The Good Place alright, but I struggle with Schur's shows. This is the best explanation as to why that I can think of (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nu44FTsE90Q), especially towards the bullshit that is Brooklyn Nine-Nine. His stuff is just too nice for its own good, to the point where it seems like it hurts him to add conflict to any of his characters. There's no punch, no fire.

Upload is alright. I think I wanted something different from it than what Greg Daniels and co wanted to do with it, but it's worth checking out.

By the way Avaitor,, over the course of this pandemic, I finally saw Community when it went to Netflix. It's a good show, but I think for me it showcases why Schur and Daniel are my favorites in the sitcom business. I find that it comes off as kind of mean spirited very often. This, coupled with Chevy Chase being Chevy Chase in a show that's so hindered by him and his character, contrasts with something like The Office, which can be a downer at times but I rarely find to come off as unlikable (its first season being a noteworthy exception).
It's funny, I can't stand The Office in any capacity, but it's not quite semblatic of Schur's other works, mainly since he wasn't in charge of it. Besides just not clicking with the show's sense of humor, I grew instant apathy for the cast. I think this one comes down to humor being subjective. What I find funny won't be the same for everyone else.

I do like Community, though. Pierce and Chang are pretty unlikable, I'll admit, and the show wouldn't have been worse to drop either character earlier than they did (I know Chang never leaves, but bare with me here). I think the show did a good balance of adding introspection to the characters, allowing for their faults to make for good jokes and stories, but it wasn't THAT meanspirited. It's hardly Always Sunny, but as far as I'm concerned, that's better at what it does than any of these shows.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 31, 2020, 05:10:21 AM
The Good Place was a weird watch. I didn't exactly like the jokes, but I was way into the characters and the lore. Particularly surprised by how much philosophy and theology was in this, an NBC sitcom. Wouldn't describe it as overly nice and sweet considering some of the plot twists, though I wouldn't describe his other shows as overly saccharine. When I think "overly nice" shows, I think stuff like Full House or 7th Heaven. Shows like that.

Wouldn't think of Community as that mean-spirited either. Has its moments, but certainly not as pessimistic as Dan Harmon's other show.

Anyway, I watched a couple episodes of Umbrella Academy, and it's a show I absolutely know I would have loved when I was 16. But now, it's fine. I think you can cut out 10-20 minutes out of each episode and get a tighter narrative out of them. Also a little distracting to see Ellen Page play the Jean Grey role. She's good in it, but kind of intrusive to see someone who played an X-Man in the movies show up in what is basically Gerard Way's X-Men.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on July 31, 2020, 12:53:24 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on July 31, 2020, 05:10:21 AM
Wouldn't think of Community as that mean-spirited either. Has its moments, but certainly not as pessimistic as Dan Harmon's other show.

I mostly think Pierce was too unlikable. Writing a villain is one thing, but at the end of the day, I feel like the writers wanted me to like him which was just impossible.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 31, 2020, 01:40:30 PM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on July 31, 2020, 12:53:24 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on July 31, 2020, 05:10:21 AM
Wouldn't think of Community as that mean-spirited either. Has its moments, but certainly not as pessimistic as Dan Harmon's other show.

I mostly think Pierce was too unlikable. Writing a villain is one thing, but at the end of the day, I feel like the writers wanted me to like him which was just impossible.
I can see that early on in the show, but by the end of its run, I think the show started to recognize that Pierce, and Chevy Chase as a whole, wasn't worth redeeming.

Although that's from what I recall, because I'll admit that it's been a while. But I could've sworn that his memorial episode wasn't exactly a celebration of the character.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on July 31, 2020, 03:21:40 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on July 31, 2020, 01:40:30 PM
Quote from: talonmalon333 on July 31, 2020, 12:53:24 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on July 31, 2020, 05:10:21 AM
Wouldn't think of Community as that mean-spirited either. Has its moments, but certainly not as pessimistic as Dan Harmon's other show.

I mostly think Pierce was too unlikable. Writing a villain is one thing, but at the end of the day, I feel like the writers wanted me to like him which was just impossible.
I can see that early on in the show, but by the end of its run, I think the show started to recognize that Pierce, and Chevy Chase as a whole, wasn't worth redeeming.

Although that's from what I recall, because I'll admit that it's been a while. But I could've sworn that his memorial episode wasn't exactly a celebration of the character.

If I remember correctly, his memorial episode didn't condemn him, but you're right that it didn't celebrate him, either. I thought it was a better show without him, but unfortunately Troy left the show not much later.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Foggle on August 02, 2020, 01:10:00 AM
I adore Brooklyn Nine-Nine and don't think Community is mean-spirited at all, especially compared to Dan Harmon's other work. :??: I also share the sentiment of Full House being my concept of an "overly nice" sitcom.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on August 02, 2020, 03:58:25 AM
While I liked Pierce in a sitcom nemesis way, and Chase's real life disdain for the show added to his character in a way, I do think maybe the show should've had someone like Mike from Breaking Bad from the very beginning instead of all the way into season 5. Or Keith David's character.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 02, 2020, 12:25:27 PM
I'm kind of surprised that Chevy Chase still gets as much work as he has over the years. From every account I can gather, he's one of the biggest assholes in the industry. The only cast he ever seemed to remotely get along with was the Vacation family. He's a good actor, but hardly worth the trouble, especially when you hear about the bullshit he instigated during his time on Community.

I still prefer Pierce to Chang at the end of the day, though. Pierce at least works as a foil, even if his shtick grew old by the end of his run. But on the other hand, they really ran out of things to do with Chang after the first season, and he became about as unlikable in no time.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on August 03, 2020, 02:40:03 PM
Finished watching Umbrella Academy's second season. While it never shakes off the "Wait, this is just X-Men for the My Chemical Romance crowd" flavor, I had fun. It's a pretty whimsical show that takes great joy in its soundtrack and fight scenes.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 10, 2020, 01:44:42 PM
I just finished watching The Great, which mostly lives up to its title. It's from the writer of The Favourite, and it has the same kind of anachronisms that had, which will likely bother some. But that was one of my (heh) favorites from that year, and this is just as clever. It's also backed up by a strong cast, with an especially inspired duel lead performances from Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult.

Speaking of casting, there's one noteworthy thing I noticed. The cast is primarily British, which is to be expected in a European-based setting. Aside from Fanning, who is not only the one American in an English cast, but is already playing a German aristocrat in the Russian hierarchy. She's a fish out of water in every sense.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 17, 2020, 01:24:44 PM
I'm really late to the game, but I watched the first episode of The Witcher out of boredom last night. I haven't read the books or played the games, although I do have a copy of III waiting to be played soon, but it was alright. You can tell that Netflix was really hoping to find their own Game of Thrones, but with a smaller cast and more of a willingness to embrace fantasy than D&D were. I know that it's only the pilot, but it doesn't seem as exciting or well-rounded thus far, although I did like Henry Cavill as Geralt. He honestly does have more charisma than Snyder allows.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on August 17, 2020, 03:52:26 PM
Yeah, the payoff in the first season takes a while to happen. Definitely could've been tighten up more.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 07, 2020, 06:31:17 PM
Fargo's back and it's pretty good. More fart jokes than I expected though.

In other news, some people I know have been complaining about the new Spitting Image, and it's awful. (https://twitter.com/danwootton/status/1313041190166683649) This is what people who hate South Park think a joke from South Park is like.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on October 09, 2020, 06:03:55 PM
Watched The Boys season finale. The show's sending mixed messages. A few episodes ago, they mocked Endgame's girl power scene, (https://youtu.be/3OVKX3d2Lgw?t=128) but then the finale had a girl power scene anyway. (https://youtu.be/Xq-UpjLbu6Y?t=122) Same thing with how much the show criticizes the superhero industry for its monopoly on society, when it's made by Amazon. It's almost like the show keeps saying "This thing you see in most media is bad unless we do it!", and while it's still much better than how the comic handled its satire, I'm not sure if the show actually knows what it's trying to say.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 08, 2020, 01:42:02 PM
I've finally been getting around to PEN15, and it's pretty good. Cringey as all hell, but that's intentional.

On a side note, I think that Cuties movie would've been better received if it followed this show's suit, and had much older women play these pre-teen characters. That's really helped to make this show's use of raunchy, but relevant subject matter seem less creepy, like discovering masturbating or thongs. It comes close to being unacceptable in some episodes, like how you can see the thong strap in one of the actual 13-year-olds, but the heavier stuff is saved for the 30-year-olds, as it should be.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 15, 2020, 09:58:45 AM
A little disappointed in this season of Fargo. Chris Rock is surprisingly great, but it isn't catching my interest as much as the prior seasons.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 15, 2020, 04:14:59 PM
Yeah, while some of what I heard about the season sounded good on paper, I wasn't super drawn to this run of Fargo, which is why I bailed. Season 2 is still the one to beat, IMO.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 17, 2020, 03:56:06 PM
This guy would make a good Wario though.

(https://preview.redd.it/iikwxdssl9r51.jpg?width=960&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=3e0fa9870f52ed3a254aa3a96bad3d09b232b5fc)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on December 18, 2020, 05:50:20 AM
Wasn't expecting that Mandalorian ending. Season 2 had some better episodes than the last season, but when it takes a detour to do a backdoor pilot for an Ahsoka show or a Boba Fett show, it gets really fucking obvious.

Spoiler
Anyway, season 3 will inevitably have a scene where Grogu doesn't want to be trained by Luke and flies back to Mando, sparing him from Kylo Ren's lightsaber. Because not only is he the mascot of the show, he was also the driving force of the plot. It's hard to see the show and the main character going on without him. Unless season 3 is a heavy retool all about Mando saving Mandalore. Or worse, they give him a baby Gungan or a baby Grievous as a replacement.
[close]
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 24, 2020, 12:10:35 PM
I watched season 1 of Cobra Kai recently. Was not expecting to see Ed Asner in it.

But hey, it was quite good, I can totally understand the hype, and this is coming from someone who barely remembers watching the original Karate Kid ages ago. Granted, I'm only really into it when Johnny and Daniel are on- Miguel's fine, but the other teenagers don't impress me nearly as much. But I like how it shows how both characters have struggled with PTSD following the events of the original film, and how their lives have changed over the years. That does much better for me as opposed to when the show is trying to recreate the movie.

I do hope to get to season 2 soon, but I have some stuff going on over the holidays and probably won't finish it before season 3 starts on the first. But hey, I did find time to finish Lovecraft Country- meh.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on January 16, 2021, 03:19:15 PM
First 2 episodes of Wandavision were cute. Maybe it's because he reminds me of David Hyde Pierce, but Paul Bettany's wonderful when doing sitcom fare.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 16, 2021, 07:03:12 PM
Wandavision is kind of an interesting novelty so far, and I respect the commitment to making it genuinely feel like the era of sitcom that the first two episodes try to emulate, but it does also feel a bit plain on it's own. Like, if this wasn't connected to the MCU, I'm not sure if it would be able to hold people's interest with this content and format to stick around long enough to see what's going on.

Still, I'm genuinely curious to see where this goes.

Also binged through Cobra Kai season three. I don't care if it's over-the-top, much like The Karate Kid and it's sequels, it has the right combination of cheese and heart that's up my alley. That said, Hawk's face-turn was way too sudden given how much of an ass-hole he was being even up to the season finale. I also just don't care for Tory as a character, and I have a hard time really giving as much of a shit about Robby as the show clearly wants me to. To me, Johnny and Miguel are the heart of the show and it works at it's best when it centers around them. That said, Daniel has gotten plenty of good moments of his own, here.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on January 16, 2021, 07:08:52 PM
I don't know. I've seen people who don't like the MCU gravitate towards Wandavision, so it must be doing something right. Also seeing people compare it to Legion, which I don't agree with since Legion was far less willing to hold the audience's hand.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 16, 2021, 07:19:01 PM
Well, that's definitely a good thing if it's managing to attract fans outside of those already invested in the MCU. I imagine it's no accident that this strays very far from the expected MCU content in no small part as a response to criticism that the movies are too formulaic. While I can acknowledge some of that, though, I still like the MCU for what it is, so while I'm glad that Disney is at least willing to allow for some creative experimentation, I also hope that they don't try to over-correct and be different for just for the sake of it. Then again, I suppose that's what FatWS is supposed to be. In that regard it makes sense to debut WV on Disney + first as their experiment and then have something more familiar to fall back on shortly after so as not to completely alienate the pre-existing fanbase.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on January 16, 2021, 07:35:18 PM
From what I heard though, if COVID didn't happen, Falcon and the Winter Soldier was supposed to premiere first as the more conventional Marvel show, then Wandavision. But then the pandemic occurred, and they switched places. And I think with how successful the MCU's been, they can afford to make more shows or movies that play with the existing fandom's expectations and do something different. And while they did have problems, I do miss the way the Marvel Netflix shows handled things compared to their movie cousins.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 16, 2021, 09:35:22 PM
Iron Fist and The Defenders aside, I think that the main problem with the Marvel Netflix shows, or rather "hindrance" may be a better term here, was being forced into 13-episode seasons. Really, while Daredevil, The Punisher, Jessica Jones, and Luke Cage all had great content, they felt really stretched out and padded at times. Out of the three, I think that Daredevil managed to fair the best in making the most of it's episode-count, along with the first season of Jessica Jones. Everything else felt about twice as long as it needed to be. Like, Luke Cage season one felt genuinely well-paced throughout the Cottonmouth arc, but felt really padded out after his death. I feel like that content could have been condensed into two or three episodes as a season finale rather than an entire back half of the season.

I exluded Iron Fist because, despite having the same episode-count issue for it's first season, the show obviously had way bigger problems at it's core to begin with. And The Defenders was actually the shortest of all of these despite having the most characters to juggle, ironically enough. That said, the episode-count was fine. The pacing was somehow still way too slow, though, and the story structure didn't really allow for the actors and their respective characters to really jive together with too many meaningful interactions. That's one area where the movie efforts of the team-up events were definitely executed far better.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 17, 2021, 12:54:33 PM
I wasn't expecting to see Emma Caulfield in WandaVision, but it's nice to see her again. I know she's stuck around in B-movies, but it feels like this is the first time I've seen her.

I'm enjoying the show as is so far, especially when I started to take it as a straight-forward sitcom tribute as opposed to a spoof of them. It helps that just about everyone involved can more than hold their own with the material. I'm curious to see where the show goes from here- I'm expecting something more depressing and fantastic underneath the show's core.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on January 17, 2021, 09:21:14 PM
Have they ever said the words "Scarlet Witch" in any of the MCU? All live-action superhero adaptations are always a little bit ashamed of using superhero names, even the recent Wonder Woman film never used the words "Wonder Woman" despite how campy the film was, and the aforementioned Marvel Netflix shows were always afraid of saying any codenames. But it's a special case when even most of the promotional material just calls Wanda by her name.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 17, 2021, 11:18:41 PM
To be fair, even in most comics I read they tend to refer to her as Diana more often than Wonder Woman, but then again I've mostly only read post-COIE DC stuff which was around the time the medium itself was trying way too hard to shed the "childish" image of the silver age that preceded it.

As for the MCU, I think it's more about finding organic ways to use superhero names. Afterall, most other heroes and villains have been referred to by their alter ego names at various points once they established an in-Universe reason to call them by that name. I'm sure Wandavision will utilize it's unique set-up to call her by Scarlet Witch at least once, but I don't think referring to her as Wanda is meant to slight the comics. It just sounds more natural for a live-action script. I mean, try imagining the opening scene of Civil War with Captain America taking the extra second to fully annunciation Scarlet Witch instead of just Wanda when giving her orders in the middle of a tense situation. It would feel out of place. Same with when they speak to her in more casual conversations. It just makes more sense to use her real name. If anything I'd argue it's more in line with Lee and Kirby's original vision of Marvel treating it's characters as real people first and superheroes second. Reading their entire 100+ issue FF run kind of cemented in that idea for me.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on January 17, 2021, 11:42:07 PM
Maybe it was thanks to years on and off of watching some Smallville, and seeing the show bend over backwards to omit the word "Superman" from their dictionary while every other superhero in the show had their superhero name said plenty of times, but I think there are times when refusing to say the codename becomes unintentionally sillier than saying it. I remember a whole episode where they make their own Justice League, and one of the characters says "Green Arrow, Cyborg, Impulse, Aquaman, and Clark", and I burst out laughing.

For what it's worth, I think the film side of the MCU handles it well.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Mustang on February 03, 2021, 08:50:52 PM
Been watching bits of WWE for roughly the past couple of months. I've always been a fan of Roman Reigns, but I'm loving this heel angle. I also love the Alexa Bliss and Fiend stuff, but I hate it that Asuka is afraid of her. Speaking of Fiend/Bray, this guy has been amazing. I wish to see him get more title shots.

Bobby Lashley. I remember loving this guy back in the Ruthless Aggression era, but now, my goodness. This whole "angry all the time" angle is terrible because to me it comes off as a stereotype that don't need to be. The guy used to be so laid back and I sort of wished he went back to that. Also, I hate that he's being matched up against all these small dudes which makes me miss the domination of heavy weight wrestlers despite having a decent amount of top tier heavy weights

That being said, whatever or wrestling again.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on February 03, 2021, 09:31:37 PM
Put Paul Heyman with anyone and you tend to get gold. Roman Reigns is one of the few things that I can still actually enjoy (let alone bear to watch) about modern WWE. I feel like Drew McIntyre is a good champion cursed with mostly bad booking. He had some decent matches against Randy Orton and an outright great one against Roman Reigns at Survivor Series, but a lot of his other feuds since defeating Brock Lesnar have been rather disappointing, IMO. It's not due to a lack of talent as much as it is due to a lack of proper opponents for him to work with given his style of wrestling.

I have been going back and watching a lot of classic wrestling content lately, though, as well as some stuff from other promotions. I've really learned to appreciate Ric Flair, Ricky Steamboat, Randy Savage, Terry Funk, Jerry Lawler, and Sting (among many others) all the more now that I've seen more matches from when they were in their prime.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Mustang on February 04, 2021, 02:24:14 PM
Agreed. Drew is definitely being booked terribly. Liked the Orton matches. Would love to see more matches between Drew and Roman, but I need them to merge in order for that to happen. I'm hoping for a Drew and Sheamus feud. I know they have a match, but I'm hoping for an actual feud for once. Hell, for all I care put Bobby Lashley against the man.

Looking at some of the modern wrestling definitely make me reminisce about the Golden age classics a lot. Not so much with the days of Jerry Lawler in his prime but more so Randy Savage vs Hogan, or The Rockers vs Oriental Express. Sting vs Flair will always be a classic I remember but I just love Crow Sting so much. One of the greatest technical matches I've ever seen was Bret Hart vs Mr. Perfect for the IC title.

Modern wrestlers has so much talent it's ridiculous what they're doing in the ring (although I think a lot of these guys should only be able to get as far as the IC title), but there are none that are nearly as charismatic as the Hogans, Warriors, Savages, etc which is unfortunate.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on February 04, 2021, 03:59:29 PM
Quote from: Mustang on February 04, 2021, 02:24:14 PMAgreed. Drew is definitely being booked terribly. Liked the Orton matches. Would love to see more matches between Drew and Roman, but I need them to merge in order for that to happen. I'm hoping for a Drew and Sheamus feud. I know they have a match, but I'm hoping for an actual feud for once. Hell, for all I care put Bobby Lashley against the man.

Yeah, Sheamus would make for a good rival to him should they decide to go with that feud, and I'm actually surprised that they haven't matched him against Bobby Lashley yet. The thing is, I really like the in-ring work of some of his other opponents like Seth Rollins and AJ Styles (the latter probably being my favorite currently active performer for the entire company), but their styles don't mesh all that well with Drew's, IMO. He's at his best when he's taking on similarly sized/built opponents. Not that I think that smaller guys need to be sidelined to bigger opponents, but in Drew's case he just seems to work best with bigger guys, like Brock Lesnar, Keith Lee, and as previously mentioned Reigns and Orton. But on top of that even some of those feuds don't do him any favors due to the booking. Drew should have never lost the title to Orton. Even if he won it back it killed his momentum and Orton doesn't need the title given his tenure with the company.  Likewise, putting him against Lee and having him go over comes at the expense of taking away some of Lee's momentum. I feel like Damien Priest would make a really good opponent for him, but I doubt that they'd move him into the main title picture so soon after moving up to Raw's roster. Samoa Joe would also be a good opponent if it was a few years ago, but unfortunately he's been sidelined to a commentator role due to in-ring injuries.

QuoteLooking at some of the modern wrestling definitely make me reminisce about the Golden age classics a lot. Not so much with the days of Jerry Lawler in his prime but more so Randy Savage vs Hogan, or The Rockers vs Oriental Express. Sting vs Flair will always be a classic I remember but I just love Crow Sting so much. One of the greatest technical matches I've ever seen was Bret Hart vs Mr. Perfect for the IC title.

I love Crow Sting. I was more just noting my newfound appreciation for his earlier stuff after going out of my way to watch some of his earlier matches. And I 1000% agree about Hart Vs. Perfect. God I miss that era of wrestling.

QuoteModern wrestlers has so much talent it's ridiculous what they're doing in the ring (although I think a lot of these guys should only be able to get as far as the IC title), but there are none that are nearly as charismatic as the Hogans, Warriors, Savages, etc which is unfortunate.

I agree. Most of my problems with modern wrestling has little to do with the talent and almost everything to do with how they are used. The best performers in the world will still look like crap with crappy booking and the shitty writing that they are forced to regurgitate. To me, CM Punk was the last wrestler to have the same level of star power as someone from the Attitude Era and they basically sidelined him to the point of frustrating him to walk away from the profession for good.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on February 05, 2021, 06:07:01 AM
So even when that guy from SWORD asked what Wanda's codename was, nobody had an answer. Weird.

Spoiler
Now when's Ian McKellen's showing up so Wanda can add more members to her fake family?
[close]
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on February 23, 2021, 04:57:25 PM
I've been having less time to watch shit lately, but I have found a little time to finally get to season 2 of Cobra Kai. I'm only halfway through so far, but I'm still mostly enjoying it, but like EK, I'm mostly here for Johnny, Danny, and Miguel, although I do also like Hawk and Aisha, and I'm interested to see where they go with Kreese. I don't really care about Robby either, at least not to the extent the show wants me to. Sam's tolerable, but she reminds me of Nancy from Stranger Things, the bland teenage girl mostly added to give other teenage girls someone to latch to.

My least favorite character has to be Demetri. He's basically just Xander Harris without the wit and pathos.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on March 25, 2021, 06:27:19 PM
Oh yeah, so I did finish season 3 of Cobra Kai last week, and I did mostly like it, moreso than season 2. The series is getting more over the top, but this does balance out comedy better with its melodrama at least. But I have to admit, the show was at its best in season 1, and I think I know why- Kreese is just too much.

Martin Kove is a lot of fun as him, and I do appreciate that this season has been trying to find more shading to the character, but Kreese just adds too much of a wrench into a show that honestly was working just fine when it was about Johnny and Daniel. Those are the show's real triumphs, the fact that William Zabka and Ralph Macchio are still so good at their roles and have excellent chemistry. My favorite episodes tend to be the ones that pair them up together.

I'm also still not very impressed with Robbie as a character. He's just a flat pretty boy with a bad streak, and he drives the show to a halt when he isn't paired with one of the better characters. I'll also say that I did admire that the show was giving Sam some worthwhile development, but the fact is that her actress just isn't very good. Meanwhile, I think Tory's actress is pretty decent, but I don't buy her character.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: TheDisneyPlayhouse on March 25, 2021, 06:46:15 PM
I've only seen the first Episode of Cobra Kai. I'm generally not very into Live-Action shows admittedly (With some exceptions), though I liked the first Episode of the show, so I do plan to continue watching it
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on March 26, 2021, 05:53:08 PM
Invincible had a pretty solid premiere, IMO, though I'm not sure it was such a good idea to have one of the big reveal moments come at the end of the first episode instead of after maybe three or four. It worked a bit better in the comic since they took a bit more time to establish a status quo first to make the turn mean a bit more. That said, structurally the show makes a lot of story-telling improvements over the comic, so I can't complain too much.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on March 31, 2021, 01:03:16 PM
I thought the first episode was all right.

Though it is funny a company led by a bald billionaire is producing 2 shows featuring an evil Superman ersatz. Expecting Amazon to produce an Irredeemable show or a Brightburn sequel at this rate.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on March 31, 2021, 03:41:55 PM
Even though it's probably unintentional, it's funny how people will put this or Snyder's DCEU stuff on a pedestal for being some rebellious middle-finger to the evil corporate Disney's "cookie-cutter" Marvel films despite the fact that Amazon and AT&T are arguably just as shitty big evil corporations as Disney. Also, comments like that are kind of an unjustified slap in the face to people like James Gunn or Taika Waititi, IMO.

To be fair, Invincible, despite it's blood and gore being equivalent to that of The Boys isn't nearly as cynical. It's more like Robert Kirkman loves to dial up the violence but as a story it's much more of a love letter to superheroes than an outright Watchmen-style deconstruction of them. I'd also argue Nolan is a better "evil" Superman than Homelander since his motives and character have an element of nuance to them as the series progresses. Homelander has the benefit of being played by Antony Starr in the show, who's acting is pretty great and adds to the character, but from a writing perspective he comes off as a one-dimensional extremist right-wing allegory.

For me the story in Invincible really hooked me with Thraxa arc and onward.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 01, 2021, 02:07:01 PM
I feel like I'm late to the party- it seems like the show had peaked in admiration around the time the show won big at the Emmys- but I got around to watching The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.

It's funny, I couldn't really stomach what I've seen of Gilmore Girls, but I like Amy Sherman-Palladino's writing better for this. At least in the first season, but watching all three seasons in close-ish proximity (I tend to take breaks between seasons) does show why the critical reception has fallen over the years.

Especially in the last season, when the show never seems to know what it wants to do, and drops interesting plot points left and right. Like how Susie has a gambling addiction and blows all of Midge's earnings in a bad bet. This could have led to a big blowout to lead into the next season... but no, she's going to make most of that money back thanks to an insurance scam. Midge never even finds out. It also falls flat when it tries to be feminist or socially conscious, like the crew is on board with progressive themes, but doesn't know how to articulate them.

And the character writing is showing its flaws. Susie is the best, and a big part of that comes from Alex Borstein's killer performance. Sherman-Palladino likes Midge a little too much, and only occasionally brings up how selfish she is. And even then, it's only brought up when a character is meant to seem even more unlikable, like her mother Rose suggesting that it's Midge's fault that she's become discontent with her life. None of the parents really work all that well as characters, IMO- my least favorite material usually focuses on them, especially Midge's. Joel's are at least enjoyably neurotic and intentionally suffocating. Joel actually got some decent development in the most recent season, but he's still hardly a favorite. And while I like Luke Kirby's take on Lenny Bruce, I always find it icky when a fictional story adds a real person like him in, especially when the person involved has a tragic ending like Bruce did.

But hey, it can be funny. And Sepinwall brings up a good point that it's a better directed show than written, even though Sherman-Palladino is better known for her dialogue. It looks really damn nice. But I don't think that I'll watch the fourth season whenever it comes out.

Now, I'm thinking of getting Apple+ and trying out a few of their series, including this Ted Lasso series I keep hearing about. It's funny how this seemed like one of the most superfluous streaming services, but it's really starting to add up a noteworthy library of original content.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on September 04, 2021, 12:30:09 PM
I don't get Ted Lasso. I'm three episodes in, and I don't understand the hype.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on September 12, 2021, 07:27:50 AM
Now I've been watching Inside No. 9. And while I haven't watched it all yet, I think this show's one of the best anthology series of all time. It's so shocking how much variety this show can find from locking a few actors in a set together and driving them insane with plot twist after plot twist. Sometimes hilarious, often times horrifying. If I have to recommend at least one episode for you guys to watch, find one called "The Devil of Christmas". The ending will haunt you.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on October 04, 2021, 08:06:33 PM
Watched all of Squid Game. It's like a combination of Kaiji and Battle Royale, which is really entertaining for the most part. I do feel like the behind-the-scenes plot of the people running the games is considerably less interesting, and it comes off as a bit pretentious when it's trying to get too heavy-handed with it's themes, but the core aspect of the show itself is undeniably entertaining. It also helps that Gi-hun is a flawed but likeable lead.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: GregX on October 19, 2021, 02:37:54 PM
I just started "Succession". Three episodes in and so far, so good.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on October 19, 2021, 05:01:09 PM
Do you have a favorite character?

I love how fucked up Roman is, personally, but I also admire Shiv's moxy.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: GregX on October 19, 2021, 08:37:29 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on October 19, 2021, 05:01:09 PM
Do you have a favorite character?

I love how fucked up Roman is, personally, but I also admire Shiv's moxy.

So far, I'm really enjoying Roman the most. Five episodes in, stopped at the Thanksgiving episode. Bryan Cox is always magnetic, though.

Not as evil as my extended family, though. LOL
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: GregX on November 18, 2021, 09:03:04 PM
Quote from: GregX on October 19, 2021, 08:37:29 PM
Quote from: Avaitor on October 19, 2021, 05:01:09 PM
Do you have a favorite character?

I love how fucked up Roman is, personally, but I also admire Shiv's moxy.

So far, I'm really enjoying Roman the most. Five episodes in, stopped at the Thanksgiving episode. Bryan Cox is always magnetic, though.

Not as evil as my extended family, though. LOL

Completely up to date and while Roman is still in the lead, the dynamic duo of Tom and Greg might be behind by a hair.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 20, 2021, 03:51:15 PM
Greg had me dying in the last episode. The little shit wanted to sue Greenpeace! What?
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 23, 2021, 04:20:38 PM
Started Succession too. I watched half of the first episode a year ago but stopped for some reason, but I'm liking it so far. Didn't notice Will Ferrell produced the show though. That was surprising. What isn't surprising is the show's one Ron Howard away from being an Arrested Development remake.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on November 25, 2021, 06:01:32 PM
Ah yeah, I think that was one of the last things Ferrell and McKay produced before dissolving their partnership. I'm not sure how well McKay's more serious turn as a director has gone so far, since Vice was ass, but I do really like The Big Short. And it's because of that film that Jeremy Strong was casted as Kendell, so good for that!

Is anyone watching this season of Curb? I've been enjoying it, but I didn't love the last episode as much. I think a big part of why is because Susie and Leon were barely in it, and they've consistently been the best at improv since the show came back. Jeff Garlin's been picking back up, but I thought he was a little flat in the first couple of post-hiatus seasons, probably because he's been used to family sitcom mediocrity over the past few years. And Larry is Larry, often funny but never the MVP of the cast.

Also, I'll just come out and say it, but Vince Vaughan is no Bob Eisenstein.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on November 25, 2021, 06:52:02 PM
Yeah, Funkhouser's absence is all too noticeable. I think Jon Hamm's the best out of the new cast additions, wish he showed up more often.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 04, 2021, 06:59:42 PM
Didn't love the Sunny premiere eps. The second especially feels like one of those think pieces lamenting how millennials don't understand comedy that you'd see all the time a couple of years ago, with little of the wit that makes the show at its best shine.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on December 05, 2021, 10:20:17 PM
The most ironic part of last week's Curb was Seth Rogen of all people trying to teach Larry to be likable.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on December 11, 2021, 02:32:43 PM
I enjoyed this week's Sunny episodes more, I wasn't sure about the former, since it seemed like it would be full of easy shots at the 90's, and that's not too far removed from what happened. And I'm also not sure if I buy Dee having a nice phase, especially when she should just be getting over her aluminum monster phase. But it was classic Sunny otherwise, and had me laugh a lot. I especially like how Dennis started off as Cousin Greg, following Frank's every step in the business.

The second was just a lot of fun. Honestly, I wouldn't mind seeing more of Dee being an acting teacher, that had serious potential to be fun.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Peanutbutter on January 02, 2022, 05:17:47 PM
Didn't we have a thread on Cobra Kai? Could have sworn we did.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 03, 2022, 02:35:40 PM
I don't think so.

But ugh, need to see season 4. Really hoping I don't get spoiled.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 03, 2022, 02:44:24 PM
I'm continually surprised by how the show manages to keep the story going without feeling dragged out and still managing to balance between giving you what you expect while doing it in an unexpected way. It still feels fresh after four seasons and still makes me want to see more. Granted, I do think that they should wrap things up with the next season, but I'm definitely here for it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 03, 2022, 04:20:09 PM
Just one question- do they set up for Hillary Swank next season? I have a feeling that they want to bring her in before wrapping things up.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 03, 2022, 04:24:56 PM
If they did, I missed it. I'm sure they want to bring her in but I'm supposing they couldn't get her on-board. I feel like they would have already done it by now if they could.

After how good Terry Silver was in this season, though, I'm hoping that they can at least get Mike Barnes's actor back to complete that arc from The Karate Kid Part III.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Peanutbutter on January 04, 2022, 02:12:01 PM
I won't go deep into Season Four yet as others haven't watched it. What I'll say is I can see them bringing in Barnes in, as that's probably the only way of justifying a sixth season if there is one. Barring him getting a surprise teaser I have a feeling he won't show up until late into Season Five.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on January 09, 2022, 05:31:22 AM
Dexter New Blood was a surprisingly good revival of the show... for the first 9 episodes. Then the finale happens, which in a way, was dumber than the original finale. Obviously nothing as bad as "Debra suddenly going brain dead from a stomach wound" or the Lumberjack ending, but it's up there.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 09, 2022, 08:03:56 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on January 09, 2022, 05:31:22 AM
Dexter New Blood was a surprisingly good revival of the show... for the first 9 episodes. Then the finale happens, which in a way, was dumber than the original finale. Obviously nothing as bad as "Debra suddenly going brain dead from a stomach wound" or the Lumberjack ending, but it's up there.

It's funny, because on the one hand, I'm on board with what they were thematically trying to do with this ending. Part of many people's problems with the original finale was Dexter got off scott free but also mircaulously survives a fucking hurricane and then changes his identity and decides to abandon his psychopath ways because....(and that's about as much thought as the writers put into it).

Having Dexter be caught, essentially made to confront the fact that he is just as much of a deranged psychopath as almost everyone he's ever killed, and essentially meet his own fate is a much more naturally fitting for this kind of story.

The execution on the other hand, was shockingly just as bad as the original finale, but it feels worse in a way because the show had already gotten so bad and overly convluted that it wasn't all that disappointing to see it end on a lousy note because we had gotten used to the whole thing being off-key for several seasons by that point anyways. With New Blood, while it had it's messy bits of writing, it did actually do a fairly good job of shedding the baggage of the last few seasons of the show's original run, and managed to tell a pretty comprehensive and thematically rich story up to a certain point.

Then logic pretty much goes out the window and we are lead to plot contrivance after plot contrivance as well as character turns out of left field. I already disliked how so many bombshell clues were just falling into Angela's lap without rhyme of reason throughout the season leading her to Dexter's identity, rather than her slowly uncovering it after just one slip-up (preferrable on Dexter's part to make it more ironic given how careful he tries to be). It didn't make Angela feel like a smart detective, which is what I think that the writers were going for, but rather just incredibly lucky to have the right clues fall into her lap at the right time, and then just research or act on them accordingly. Likewise, if they wanted to have Harrison's internal conflict lead him to reject Dexter, that's again fine on paper, but the execution was laughably bad. Harrison completely turning on Dexter's psychotic ways was out of complete left field and not set up for until the penultimate episode. The rest of the season depicted him as being more emotionally unstable than Dexter and needing the kind of guidance that Dexter had needed at his age (but was lead down the wrong path). Up until that point he wasn't even slightly seeming conflicted about the messed up psychological influence he was receiving from either Kurt of Dexter, but then all of a sudden he's a righteous hero because Dexter kills his coach and he kind of liked that guy? And him going off on Dexter about him being innocent is rich considering how he hospitalized his own friend earlier in the season just to know what slashing a guy felt like. The show clearly depicted him as psychologically disturbed throughout the rest of the season, and if it wanted him to be on the path of wanting to be normal they should have set that up properly.

Anyways, all of this is just an overly-long way of saying that the actual ideas of how this series ended were in and of themselves fine. The execution was just as bad as the first time, which makes it sting all the more.

Also, what was the point of that B sub-plot with the rich billionaire that never came back up? And I mean other than to be an obvious red-herring as to who the season's killer might be until it was revealed to be Kurt (which was still obvious).

::EDIT::

Also, the more I think about it the more plot issues keep springing into my mind that really is more of a problem with the whole season at large rather than just the finale. Like, at what point did Dexter and Angels get back together? Like, it was made abundantly clear after she found out his identity that she was pretty disgusted with him and kept her distance. I could buy her at least being less antagonistic towards him when he helped her investigate her friend's murder, but it clearly didn't make her inclined to actually start liking him again. What made this worse was how clearly oblivious Dexter was at her apprehension around him and her clear suspicion towards him. It's not even a case of it being a blind-spot. The show, even back when Clyde Phillips was running it and writing and directing several episodes, established that Dexter was not so socially inept as to not understand different social demeanors. Like, we know that he can clearly understand when people are acting off, so it was really jarring when Angels was so obviously giving off incredibly oppressive vibes around him, and he was genuinely thinking (as in, even in his own internal thoughts) that everything was OK between them. It's just insultingly bad writing.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on January 10, 2022, 08:09:51 AM
Yeah, don't know what the deal was with the oil billionaire. Clancy Brown was obviously going to be the season villain because he's Clancy Brown. Same thing with the show alluding to Batista and Dexter reuniting but doing nothing with it. If they had a couple more episodes to deal with the fallout instead of hastily throwing everything in this last episode, maybe things could have been better.

Though Angela instantly finding out clues about the Bay Harbor Butcher was stupid too. Ketamine isn't such a rare drug that only one guy would use it in Miami.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: GregX on January 16, 2022, 02:07:37 PM
Quote from: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 03, 2022, 04:24:56 PM
If they did, I missed it. I'm sure they want to bring her in but I'm supposing they couldn't get her on-board. I feel like they would have already done it by now if they could.

After how good Terry Silver was in this season, though, I'm hoping that they can at least get Mike Barnes's actor back to complete that arc from The Karate Kid Part III.

Is Cobra Kai going to culminate with some bullied kid pulling a gun on one of these karate assholes and pulling the trigger? The more this keeps escalating, the more I think that this is the natural end point.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Peanutbutter on January 17, 2022, 03:53:17 PM
Quote from: GregX on January 16, 2022, 02:07:37 PM
Quote from: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 03, 2022, 04:24:56 PM
If they did, I missed it. I'm sure they want to bring her in but I'm supposing they couldn't get her on-board. I feel like they would have already done it by now if they could.

After how good Terry Silver was in this season, though, I'm hoping that they can at least get Mike Barnes's actor back to complete that arc from The Karate Kid Part III.

Is Cobra Kai going to culminate with some bullied kid pulling a gun on one of these karate assholes and pulling the trigger? The more this keeps escalating, the more I think that this is the natural end point.


Much as I love the show, to be fair I can see this happening. Hope I'm wrong though, 13 Reasons Why's stupidity was bad enough.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on January 17, 2022, 04:05:36 PM
Quote from: Peanutbutter on January 17, 2022, 03:53:17 PM
Quote from: GregX on January 16, 2022, 02:07:37 PM
Quote from: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 03, 2022, 04:24:56 PM
If they did, I missed it. I'm sure they want to bring her in but I'm supposing they couldn't get her on-board. I feel like they would have already done it by now if they could.

After how good Terry Silver was in this season, though, I'm hoping that they can at least get Mike Barnes's actor back to complete that arc from The Karate Kid Part III.

Is Cobra Kai going to culminate with some bullied kid pulling a gun on one of these karate assholes and pulling the trigger? The more this keeps escalating, the more I think that this is the natural end point.


Much as I love the show, to be fair I can see this happening. Hope I'm wrong though, 13 Reasons Why's stupidity was bad enough.
I was disappointed 13 Reasons Why didn't end in a shootout.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Peanutbutter on January 17, 2022, 04:10:48 PM
Would have watched the other two seasons if they went through with it, but they didn't.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 17, 2022, 06:32:20 PM
Part of the reason why I haven't got to Cobra Kai yet is that I'm trying to get the most out of my Apple+ trial. I recently got a new phone, so I have 3 months of it for free.

So far I've seen the first season of Ted Lasso, which I liked better than I was expecting, even though the character himself grated on me, and Calls, which I really enjoyed. That had a pretty cool idea for a show, relying entirely on audio to tell its stories, and I like how each episode had their own little sci-fi twists added in while still connecting us to reality. It's still easy to feel for the guy who keeps losing his grasp on time, or the young woman who gets a chance to save her mom from a fatal car accident. It's basically a radio drama with some background visuals, but it's good! It held my attention more than most podcasts I've tried.

I also want to get to For All Mankind and Mythic Quest, as well as see what I can of the new Fraggle Rock when that starts. Oh, and movie wise, I should get to Wolfwalkers and The Tragedy of Macbeth, even though the Coens generally just make me shrug.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on January 17, 2022, 06:58:03 PM
I keep hearing really good things about For All Mankind since it's got Ron Moore showrunning. Whereas for Mythic Quest, I tried getting into it, but it lacked the spark It's Always Sunny has.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on January 23, 2022, 06:53:44 PM
Why do I get the feeling Robert Rodriguez had a spiritual experience watching Attack of the Clones? Because besides shit like the Sarlaac or Max Rebo, everything from Book of Boba Fett is thematically from that one specific Star Wars movie. And I get why this show's had a rougher reception than The Mandalorian, because whether the show sucks or not relies on whether you hated the Dexter Jettster scene from AOTC, or what your thoughts were on the scene where Dooku hired Jango to hire this other lady to hire some worms to kill Padme.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on January 26, 2022, 07:13:29 PM
I really used to love How I Met Your Mother. I fell for the romcom cliches it indulged in, dug how it played with the form of a sitcom, and really liked the characters, but more important for me was how I was able to connect with my friends about it every week. The finale definitely hurt my perception of it, but even if they didn't fuck it up that badly, there are some elements that don't hold up.

So I tried the pilot for How I Met Your Father anyway, and it's whatever. I'm all in on a good multicam sitcom- still bitter that One Day at a Time ended- but very few of the jokes landed. I just checked, and there are five writers, so it really feels like a case of too many cooks, but I wouldn't be surprised if Thomas and Bays just received honorary credit or something.

The characters just aren't there either. HIMYM's pilot wasn't too much beyond your average debut, but we got a major sense of the five main characters right away, as well as why Ted is yearning to find The One and why Marshall and Lily have maintained the relationship they have. Hillary Duff's character has some hints at something to dig into, but she's kind of flat and annoying otherwise, while the other characters are mostly just there. Pam Fryman's direction is the only thing saving it from being below average, although keep in mind that I haven't seen the other episodes yet, and I'm not sure if I will.

I do see that Dan Levy wrote an episode, and that would excite me if I didn't bail out of Schitt's Creek almost immediately.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on January 26, 2022, 10:20:09 PM
Yeah, no offense to Hillary Duff, but there may have been more pragmatic reasons why Disney+ put the kibosh on her Lizzie McGuire sequel.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 30, 2022, 07:12:09 PM
I'm not going to lie, I checked out of Book of Boba Fett after the first two episodes. It's kind of astounding to me how boring this show is for how much it has to work with, with the exception of how unintentionally funny some scenes are. I do still appreciate the practical effects and music, but this show is otherwise the biggest mass of nothing that I've ever felt from watching something in quite a while.

But I went ahead and skipped over the check out The Return of the Mandalorian episode after it got some buzz. I should note that I quite liked the show, but didn't exactly love it, but the Lone Wolf and Cub vibe to his relationship with Grogu is what stood out to me and really anchored that show. Putting aside the irony of the best and possibly only good episode of the Boba Fett show being the only episode with literally no Boba Fett in it, this genuinely worked as a great follow-up to The Mandalorian's own series, in how he struggles to find an identity for himself ever since completing his mission for Grogu. I was also pretty impressed with Bryce Dallas Howard's directing here, and she has improved quite a bit since her debut episode a couple of years ago.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on January 30, 2022, 08:26:26 PM
Yeah, Book of Boba Fett's funny, but not intentionally so. I can kind of appreciate what it's trying to do and show Boba trying to fix a post-ROTJ society (the problem with the main Star Wars movies is that they seldom explore what life's like during the Old Republic/Empire/New Republic days so if it weren't for the books or the shows filling the holes in, you can easily imagine civilians living their whole life and feeling no systemic change from what the main characters or villains do), but then there's all the scenes where he's learning Tusken Raider culture. And all the scenes that bring to mind the weaker films in Robert Rodriguez's career.  Howard's directing in the latest episode made his flaws stand out even more.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: GregX on February 01, 2022, 09:17:59 PM
I'm one of those weirdos who never understood the fandom behind Boba Fett to begin with. He shows up, he stands there with a gun, has maybe four lines of dialogue... and then dies in the most comical way... and this guy is some cool, deep badass? He's so popular that Disney makes a high budget TV show centered around him? I just don't get it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on February 02, 2022, 07:22:03 PM
I just think it's hilarious the show took 4 episodes before deciding to become Mandalorian Season 2.5.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on March 10, 2022, 02:03:32 PM
So, I have to say, I've pretty much completely fallen out of modern wrestling over the past few years for just how atrocious the angles have gotten (this is especially true with WWE but even AEW pretty much wore out it's luster very quickly). That said, the CM Punk and MJF feud on AEW is probably some of the best story-telling I have seen in professional wrestling in a long time, and not just by modern standards. It reminds me of why I was once a fan to begin with. They don't rely on any cheap gimmicks or catch-phrases, all of the heat between them felt like a real, personal grudge, and it climaxed last Sunday in a pretty excellent blow-off match. It kind of goes to prove that wrestling can be taken seriously and doesn't just have to be full of dumb, goofy stuff simply because it's common knowledge that it's all a work. Just like any other form of story-telling, people still want the illusion of reality, and when done well it can really suck you in.

I also do still watch the bits of AEW with Brian Danielson, who's probably one of the best current modern technical wrestlers around. Having William Regal come into the picture as a mentor figure in AEW was also a nice surprise. Most other parts of the show can't really hold my attention, but I always do tune in for the segments that I actually care about.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on March 18, 2022, 01:04:32 AM
Someone I know's been watching Squid Game, so it finally convinced me to finish the show.

Spoiler
It's hard not to pity Il-Nam while also thinking "If you wanted to relive being a kid, why not just adopt some grandkids and play games with them? Why go for the 'Start Your Own Battle Royale and Murder Innocent People' option? And don't give me that bullshit that you look down on poor people, because you could clearly empathize and develop a friendship with Gi-Hun."
[close]
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on April 17, 2022, 01:04:55 PM
Our Flag Means Death was all right, but I prefer What We Do in the Shadows a lot more.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 09, 2022, 08:36:35 AM
Latest season of The Boys feels like late Season 4 of Game of Thrones to me, where the show's still fun to watch, but the cracks are beginning to show and you're not sure if the producers know that yet. Like how the show's running out of ways to keep Homelander alive or still superpowered without making the main characters all look embarrassingly stupid, but the show knows Homelander's the most popular character in the show so they kinda need to keep him on for as long as possible.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 10, 2022, 03:22:53 PM
Oh, so I've been watching Star Trek: TOS on and off for the past year, and finished it just before I went back to work. The last season is as legendarily sloppy as has been reported, but even some of those episodes are enjoyable for how stupid they get, and some are even almost decent.

The first two seasons also show their age, but it's fun to see how many tropes it invented or redefined, and the cast is always entertaining. Like a lot of older shows, it's not really meant for binging, because you'll notice how many times it reverts to the same few ideas. Like how many times Kirk can fall in love with a gorgeous lass who he swears he'll always remember, but will never come back up. Or how often another member of the Enterprise has to cross a line when Kirk screws up to save him. Or how many different worlds they'll discover which seem wonderful until they revert to some form of fascism or whatever theme Roddenberry wants to talk about this week. But whatever, you end up watching to see Spock and Bones clash, or at least that's what I did.

I'll probably do full watches of TNG and DS9 some day, but I'm not sure of anything else. What I've seen of Discovery and the first season of Picard largely left me flat, and everything I've heard of their recent material doesn't entice me to come in. I hear better things about SNW, but I'm still skeptical.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 17, 2022, 12:22:15 AM
The Underground Railroad is one of the best TV shows I've seen in a while, and it's a shame on me to have taken so long to get to it. I don't think Amazon will ever catch up to Netflix or even Hulu, but when they hit- besides this and everything I keep hearing about The Boys, Fleabag is incredible, Invincible does the comics justice, and Tales from the Loop is one of the stronger anthology shows we've seen in a while- they're responsible for some very good stuff. They're all better than Mrs. Maisel, anyway, whose most recent season I heard was pretty bad, or Transparent, which time has already not been kind to.

On that note, I really should read more of Colson Whitehead's works. I have a copy of The Nickel Boys just staring at me to pick it up, but I keep slacking on it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 17, 2022, 12:32:38 PM
Series premiere of The Rehearsal was unnerving. The length Nathan was willing to go just to plan every single social interaction. It's great he found comedy and TV work as his calling, because it's easy to see another universe where he's a real life Jigsaw.

As for other HBO shows that recently came out, Show Me a Hero was brutal, in a way that makes The Wire look a little naive. You get the sense this is David Simon's cold realization that while his show became so renowned that even politicians and former presidents praise it, none of them did a single thing to help Baltimore, and it's honestly gotten worse.

And Time Traveler's Wife, that was definitely Moffat shamelessly ripping off his own Doctor Who episodes. Not to say I disliked it, show was fun for what it was worth, but I felt like that meme of Leonardo DiCaprio pointing at the TV from Once Upon a Time in Hollywood every time something happened. Like Rose Leslie essentially playing Amy/River but in an American accent.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 27, 2022, 03:57:32 PM
Sasquatch liaisons may be one of the greatest lines ever conceived. I will never not be jealous of the "night owl".
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 27, 2022, 10:56:19 PM
Robin seemed kinda harmless before the numbers shit, and then just casually admitting he doesn't drive with a license plate and crashed his car more than once.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on July 28, 2022, 04:22:20 PM
Quote from: Dr. Insomniac on July 27, 2022, 10:56:19 PM
Robin seemed kinda harmless before the numbers shit, and then just casually admitting he doesn't drive with a license plate and crashed his car more than once.
Don't forget smoking from a bong right before getting out on the road.

I also really liked the most recent BCS episode, but clearly not everyone did. It was surprising to do a full flashforward after only spending minutes at a time at most with Gene, but I liked seeing him pull off (possibly) one more heist. And it's nice to see Jim O'Heir again, I can't think of the last time I saw him since Parks and Rec ended.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 28, 2022, 07:55:16 PM
I don't get why Robin of all guys is the trigger of the "Is Nathan Fielder a bad person?" discourse on Twitter. There were plenty of NFY guests I felt bad for like the travel agent and Billy's Neighborhood Toilet lady, or Kors from the first episode here, but Robin? Even his family admitted that he's a crackpot.

And yeah, the new BCS was interesting. I understand anybody who was hoping for the tension to ramp up even further are disappointed at how mellow the episode is outside of Jimmy briefly coming to terms with the fact Chuck's dead. But it was fun seeing Carol Burnett.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 07, 2022, 06:27:05 PM
It is funny that we hit the discourse right before the next episode showed us someone who very likely caught onto Nathan's shtick and noped the fuck out. He'd make for a better argument towards Fielder being a bad guy than Mr. "anything's possible".

But man, that most recent episode was something else. The lengths Nathan goes to for his work is incredible.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on August 08, 2022, 07:34:57 PM
(https://i.redd.it/mxma57l9vhg91.png)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 09, 2022, 09:29:14 PM
Finally go around to watching The Boys season 3, and it was fine, but I can't help but feel like this show, despite all of it's massive improvements from the source material, kind of gets a free pass just because it's taking the piss out of the superhero genre when it's really popular to do that. The funny thing is, the show is unironically at it's best when it has those genuine moments of people doing the right thing rather than exploiting the cynical side of superhero media as well as throwing in a bunch of edgy gross-out humor and kills for shock value (The whole Hero-Gasm bit just had me rolling my eyes for most of it). That stuff feels just as juvenile as the superhero stuff it's lampooning, except at least that stuff doesn't claim to be for adults.

That said, my main thing that I've always felt about the show is that it has pretty mediocre to bad writing and lackluster directing for the most part. What holds it together and even elevates it, IMO, is the performances. All of the main cast is pretty good, and Atony Starr as Homelander deserves all the praise in the world for his performance. He makes that character terrifying more than anything else about the production. Likewise, Jensen Ackles as Soldier Boy in season 3 really brought layers of nuance and intrigue to what I was fully expecting to be a cringe-inducing Captain America spoof would have been completely one-note. Thankfully it was a lot more than that, and again, I think a lot of that has to do with the performance. And of course Karl Urban is always great, and again, it's telling of his ability that he actually makes us give a shit about such a morally and ethically bankrupt protagonist. I'd go so far as to say that if it weren't for the cast, this show would probably become unbearable for me due to all of the other stuff that I don't like about it.

Anyways, while I caught up to it a while ago, I do want to mention that Barry has probably been one of the best TV shows that I have watched in a long time. It's the first time since the early seasons of Game of Thrones that I have watched something that continually surprises me with it's story turns (all of which actually make organic, narrative sense and aren't just there to surprise or shock the audience) and continually keeps going in directions that I don't see coming. It also helps that it is genuinely hilarious most of the time but can become seriously intense and dramatic on a dime at will and makes it look easy in how seamless the transition between tones is.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on August 09, 2022, 10:54:21 PM
Ackles may have made Soldier Boy a little too charming though, because it made both Butcher's refusal to let him kill Homelander and Ryan and the idea that he could be worse than Homelander feel so hollow. And I don't think Soldier Boy is secretly misunderstood either, because he's got his own list of sins, but the show never makes a good enough case for why he's worse than the show's current main villain.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: GregX on August 16, 2022, 06:31:37 PM
Just watched the trailer for the next season of Cobra Kai.

I'm looking forward to Daniel and Johnny being on the verge of coming together only to go back to hating each other due to an unfortunate Three's Company esque misunderstanding while some of the pupils switch dojos.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on August 17, 2022, 08:49:49 PM
So the new Sandman's biggest problem is that they're more or less adapting individual issues into hour-long episodes. The amount of stretching it takes to turn 30 pages of comic into 50 minutes of show is exasperating.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on August 28, 2022, 03:45:24 PM
There's just too much TV out there, and while I'd like to see a lot of it, I can only make time to focus on one at a time, or watch some in little chunks. Some of the most recent things I've seen/am watching include:

The Bear- Funny that I got into this a good bit after the discourse died down, but that's for the best. As a former line cook, I had some uncomfortable callbacks here, with the penultimate episode in particular reminding me of one too many insane rushes I've had to deal with. But that's part of the appeal of the series for many people, how accurately it represents that torturous line of work. It's a good show, and I'm looking forward to the second season, which I assume will be an improvement but considerably less popular.

For All Mankind- I like this one a lot. It feels like the kind of prestige drama that's not being made as much nowadays, or at least isn't the center of attention it used to be. I'm usually wary of timeskips in TV shows, but I do like how each season represents a different decade or so, and I find it funny that instead of using makeup to make the actors look older, they just get wigs and/or wear frumpier clothing. I do think that the second season was probably the best so far, and that the brothers storyline tends to kill the mood, but I'm still hoping that the show gets its full five seasons. It probably will, even if it isn't the killer app for Apple+ that it should be.

The X-Files- Buffy's always going to be my 90's sci-fi show of choice, even if the emperor's clothes are never getting put back on (and of course, I'm watching that again for my blog- almost done with season 5!). But I've wanted to do a full X-Files watch for a while now, and when I saw that Tim Brayton was reviewing the first season, one episode a week, I decided that now was a good time to get aboard. So far, we're past the halfway point of the first season, and it's interesting to see how the show has evolved at this point. For one thing, the "Mulder = optimistic, Scully = skeptic" jokes are a little inaccurate, since more than once already she's proven to be just as, if not more open to the possibility of outside forces as he is. I'm having fun, but so far I'm not getting that much more out of seeing it all the way through as I was when I'd put a random episode on, but I've found a couple of episodes that really impressed me which I haven't seen before, like "Ice" and "Beyond the Sea". The former is an obvious rip-off of The Thing, but that's also part of the charm.

Party Down- This was a rewatch, although I only did the first season so far. I'll do the second soon, as I wanted to refresh myself for the revival. Honestly, I don't think it's a good idea to bring the show back, at least if everyone is still working the same job they were a decade ago. That's just kind of a sad thought. And while some elements have aged since the first time I saw this, it's still an entertaining ensemble comedy with a killer cast. Mostly, at least- I don't have much use for Kyle, who doesn't get much to do beyond being a dimwitted pretty boy. Henry and Casey are also flat as the romantic leads, but that's par for the course with their character tropes. It sucks, because Adam Scott can be quite funny when he gets a little more to do. Parks and Rec learned this when they toned down Ben's role as the straight man and focused on his anxiety while adding in his nerdy instincts. Love the rest of the cast, though, including Jennifer Coolidge's brief stint at the end when she replaces Jane Lynch. And the guest cast is more stacked than I remembered. I hope J.K. Simmons and Joey Lauren Adams return for the new season somehow.

She-Hulk- So far, s'right. At this point, I've accepted that the Disney+ shows will never impress me for more than a couple of episodes, tops. I'm really just watching because I love Tatiana Maslany, and she is good. So is Ruffalo, who I feel has accepted that this is the closest thing to a solo Hulk movie that he's going to get. As someone who read some of the She-Hulk comics from the 80's and 90's, I wish that it could be a little more self-referential, but I also understand that they're afraid of being compared to Deadpool too much.

There's plenty more that I'd like to get to, as well as shows that I'm hella behind on. Ah well.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on August 28, 2022, 05:12:27 PM
X-Files was always one of those shows where I keep saying "One day, I'll sit down and watch every episode of this" before thinking to myself "But you know the arc episodes eventually go nowhere, right? And those revival seasons you watched were shit. Why not just narrow it down to the Vince Gilligan episodes? Or Millennium? Millennium looks cool." then watching one episode and getting distracted by something else.

Watched a little of Wiseguy recently, because "Hey, Jonathan Banks as a cop? I can pretend this is the Mike prequel we won't get, even if Steven Bauer also showing up makes that a little weird". And finding out it's another one of those 80s-90s shows that took baby steps up in introducing serialized TV to primetime before HBO codified it and convinced everybody else to do it was interesting, as well as being yet another gritty cop show from way back that nobody talks about because The Wire memoryholed them all.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: talonmalon333 on October 23, 2022, 10:45:34 AM
Sounds like I missed some Cobra Kai discussion. It's one of my favorite Netflix shows right now. I watched it for the first time in the weeks leading up to season 4, and I enjoyed it so much that I watched it all again in the weeks leading up to season 5 (which was a surprisingly short time length). It's really a show that never loses its momentum, at least for me. Part of that is that they found a sweet spot in episode length averaging around 30-35 minutes (just enough time to cover more material than a typical 20 minute show, but without feeling a bit too long which many Netflix shows suffer from). Of course the characters are wonderful and the comedy is great. I also love how the show manages to take an outlandish idea that high school karate is the most important thing in the world, and presents it so well that I can just happily buy into it. Certainly requires a suspension of disbelief, but as long as the writing is tight, I've never had a problem with that in the past, and I won't now. When I rewatched it leading up to season 5, I found myself constantly thinking "Wait, I think *insert storyline*  subplot is coming up. Can't wait" or "Hey *insert new character* is being introduced in a few episodes. I'm pumped!". There was never a point where I felt fatigued watching the same show I had watched less than a year prior.

It's funny because I watched the Karate Kid movies as a kid. The original was a classic and the sequels were varying degrees of entertaining. Never would have thought that a Karate Kid sequel show was what I needed, but I like being surprised that way.


In contrast, maybe a Lord of the Ring prequel series was the show I found out that I didn't need? I won't lie, I didn't dislike Rings of Power, but this show could have been better if they cut a half hour off a lot of those episodes. I only made it through the first season because I'm hoping it's building up to something good. They also could've made Galadriel a more interesting lead. It's a surprise too, because while I hear the show pulled in record viewership for Amazon... I feel like I never see the show on social media, or discussed by word of mouth, or even show up on billboards. Rarely do you found a show that is simultaneously an apparent hit, while also being completely irrelevant in pop culture. Especially when you consider that its direct competitor, House of Targaryen, gets all the talk.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on January 15, 2023, 09:38:05 PM
Watched The Last of Us premiere, and it's basically exactly what I expected it to be: a padded out version of the video game's story. The story itself is basically nothing all that original for a zombie/post-apocalyptic story if you've seen enough of them (and yeah, I know it's fungi instead of a virus, but they're still fucking zombies in concept). I mean, it's competently done in both cases of the game and the adaptation (so far), but I've gone on record in that I feel The Last of Us is a pretty overrated game that critics praised to high hell because that's when we entered the age of it being more important for games to feel like movies than actually be a game first.

It'll be interesting to see non-gamers react to this series. I still suspect it'll get praised and such, but to me it's a pretty OK story at best and seeing it finally actually made into a live-action series pretty much confirms that at least to me, the story is nothing that special when paired up with other genre greats. I do like Pedro Pascal's performance, so there's that, but I think it's fair for me to conclude that I just don't buy into the hype around this IP, and probably never will.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on February 04, 2023, 04:29:20 AM
I saw the first episode of Poker Face, which was fine. It's exactly what you imagine when you think "What if they remade Columbo starring Natasha Lyonne"? How much you'll like it depends on how much you like Lyonne dong a Peter Falk impression for a whole hour.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on February 26, 2023, 05:15:12 AM
I haven't been keeping up with Last of Us much. Just watching it on and off and seeing people's reactions, but all the people on Twitter who think Kathleen is one of those "villain who is absolutely right and more morally just than the heroes" characters like Kuvira or Zaheer from Legend of Korra are just telling on themselves. She has zero sympathetic agenda at all.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on February 26, 2023, 01:15:54 PM
Personally, out of all of the hit games from 2013 that could be adapted into a show, I think this would have been the clear best pick: https://youtu.be/LmWQd8zhEg4
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on February 26, 2023, 02:32:44 PM
Or a Bioshock Infinite show, just to see a new generation of audiences fighting over whether Daisy Fitzroy was right or not.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on March 27, 2023, 08:08:29 AM
So I watched the first season of Yellowjackets and... fine? Fine. The 1996 plot seems to be the part everyone likes if the ads for season 2 are any indication, but I preferred the present-day arc more and there's almost a reading-level gap between the two of them. Felt like I was watching a CW series, or that kids' show Discovery used to air Flight 29 Down.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on April 09, 2023, 11:28:39 PM
So Succession didn't wait long to do it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on April 11, 2023, 05:37:52 PM
Woe is on me for not finishing season 3 yet and looking at the Twitter timeline.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 29, 2023, 01:01:06 AM
I'll talk more about the Succession finale tomorrow, still watching it now, but I just wanted to say that I had to rewind when Greg hit Tom back. Needed to see that again right away.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 29, 2023, 11:47:52 AM
Succession isn't a show like How I Met Your Mother where the finale could make or break the show at large for me- frankly, I don't know what I would want from it in the first place other than to be entertained and catch a nice feeling of schadenfreude. And it's also not like Game of Thrones, which had problems at the show's core for about half of its run, and only the lazy really started to notice during the last season.

So I was ultimately pretty happy with how the show ended. The pieces were largely there during the show's run- that fan theory about Tom's name notably added up in particular- and the show remained as entertaining as ever up til the very end. I was sad to hear that this was the end, but I'm glad that it got to end at its prime. Is Succession going to stack up next to The Sopranos, The Wire, Breaking Bad etc? Maybe, maybe not, but I would definitely recommend it.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 29, 2023, 04:24:06 PM
The last season didn't feel like a season, personally. Seemed like Zaslav or somebody else got pissed at the show's portrayal of the rich, and they had to hastily shove in their ideas for season 5 into this year. Like all the shit with Mencken could've been explored more, and the pacing became such that it almost felt like I was skipping episodes in the latter half of the season. But yeah, good show. Questioning what HBO will fill in its void. Probably not that Euphoria spin-off starring Lily-Rose Depp.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on May 30, 2023, 11:43:18 AM
I'm seeing people suggest The Last of Us, but I don't see how it can run for longer than three seasons. Apparently Righteous Gemstones is good, but is far more niche in comparison and seems more like a substitute for Barry.

Maybe David Simon will have something come out soon. It's been a while since he wrapped up The Deuce.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 30, 2023, 08:14:11 PM
I don't know about Simon. The Wire aside, and even that found more attention after it ended, most of his HBO work's been niche compared to the Deadwoods, True Bloods, and even Big Loves. Much to his annoyance, because I remember seeing him in-person once at an interview, and he said he made The Deuce about the porn industry and had it star James Franco because he was hoping for the sex and famous actors to make it a mainstream hit. Mostly because having a mainstream hit under his belt would give him more leeway to do more obscure projects.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on May 30, 2023, 11:55:13 PM
Speaking of finales, Barry also just aired it's finale this past weekend and while I have some mixed opinions on the final season overall (my main complaint being how disjointed it felt to the point of being somewhat rushed), the final episode was perfect. I don't know that I've seen another show that so perfectly balances dark comedy with top-notch dramatic acting. This is definitely going down as one of my favorite shows of all time.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on May 31, 2023, 12:34:14 AM
Yeah, Bill Hader's led an interesting career. SNL star. South Park writer. Adult Finn Wolfhard actor. And then Barry.

And cool on giving Henry Winkler a second wind.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Avaitor on June 01, 2023, 11:06:07 AM
I'll probably give Barry another chance some day, but regardless, I'm happy to see Bill Hader get the break he always wanted. I've read that it was always his goal to break out into directing, but he got sidetracked with SNL. His tenure didn't really interest me, but I recall liking when he hosted TCM's Essentials Jr. The guy knows his movies.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on June 01, 2023, 08:24:35 PM
And as a sidenote, he got to inadvertently ruin Kanye's life three different times.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Fdl6dHQWIAMp8ff?format=jpg&name=small)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on June 06, 2023, 07:00:40 AM
Anyway, speaking of HBO shows, The Idol's first episode was so goddamn boring. Show uses lazy shock value as a crutch and takes forever to tell a message that the South Park episode about Britney told in a third of the time. Somehow, Hank Azaria is the least cartoonish actor in the whole thing.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on June 17, 2023, 09:36:57 PM
The Netflix One Piece trailer finally dropped, and I'm absolutely thrilled to say that it looks every bit as stupid as I thought a live-action One Piece show would look: https://youtu.be/aQn96dEz434

I genuinely hope to have a blast binging this show drunk and ironically laughing at it the entire way through.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on June 17, 2023, 09:54:21 PM
I don't understand the "Twilight Princess"-ization of lighting in media these days.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on July 16, 2023, 06:06:31 PM
So after years of someone poking at me to do it, I'm finally watching Leftovers. For a while, I put off watching it because I assumed it'd be unrelenting misery porn, but after watching the first 2 and a half seasons, I didn't realize how weird this show would be. Like one episode's a tribute to the 80s sitcom Perfect Strangers, and another episode is a trip to an alternate universe where Kevin Garvey has to commit some political assassinations.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Mustang on July 29, 2023, 09:19:09 PM
Bits of Raw and Smackdown (sprinkles of AEW here and there). This whole Bloodline story. GOOD GOD! This has been some of the best story telling I've seen in wrestling for quite some time. I've always been a fan of Roman. Even when everyone hated him as a baby-face, I still thought he was good. Terrible on the mic, but still a good performer. The USOS!!!! I'll just crown them as Greatest Tag Team of all time. I wasn't a fan of Sammy Zane, but I hear he had a hand in coming up with some of the writing in that story (Kudos if true). As a wrestler, not a fan of him nor Kevin Owens.

Cody Rhodes. Never thought I'd ever seen him and Brock going at it. Never thought I'd even like the idea of them going at it until I actually see them going at it, and I actually like it. I wanna say you can clearly see Brock trying to get Cody even more "over" than ever, but does Cody even need it at this point? This is David vs Goliath and if Cody actually beats Brock, kudos to Brock. Hell, speaking of Brock, ever since he came back with this Cowboy look, I love it. It looks like he's having the time of his life in there; like the shackles are off and he gets to just be himself a cut loose and I'm here for it.

I don't know what's going on with Bray Wyatt or Bobby Lashley, but I wish they'd do more with them individually. Drew McIntyre should be used more (I don't know if he was injured, but it shouldn't have taken for him to leave to get a push. He should always be in front). The only other person I feel like they deserve a shot is L.A. Knight. This guy is IT.

There are some names I left out because they do nothing for me. The women division bores me, but I will say that it's about time that Shayna and Ronda is going at it. They should also be going after belts (that's don't include Tag Team in it). As much as I like Asuka, Charlotte and Rhea, Shayna needs to be included here. She's been sidelined way too much. Everyone else is whatever as well.

I wish I had kept up long enough to know that Summer Slam was going to be in my home town next weekend. Had I known that, I would've been there live.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on July 31, 2023, 03:32:35 PM
I had been contemplating posting about current WWE but didn't think anyone else but me on this board was keeping up with any of it. Cool to know that I'm not alone.

Quote from: Mustang on July 29, 2023, 09:19:09 PMBits of Raw and Smackdown (sprinkles of AEW here and there). This whole Bloodline story. GOOD GOD! This has been some of the best story telling I've seen in wrestling for quite some time. I've always been a fan of Roman. Even when everyone hated him as a baby-face, I still thought he was good. Terrible on the mic, but still a good performer. The USOS!!!! I'll just crown them as Greatest Tag Team of all time. I wasn't a fan of Sammy Zane, but I hear he had a hand in coming up with some of the writing in that story (Kudos if true). As a wrestler, not a fan of him nor Kevin Owens.

This is without a doubt the best story-line WWE has had since anything in the Attitude Era, IMO. There were good angles here and there, but not on this level for this a long a period of time with this level of consistency. CM Punk's run was squandered at several points due to bad booking decisions between 2011-2013 despite it having some great feuds and even better promos in the mix. Daniel Bryan's rise to the top between 2013-2014 was really only memorable for the climax of it leading into Wrestlemania (which is probably why people have fonder memories of it). The problem is that they clearly weren't pushing him like they should have been until they realized the fans would literally riot if they had Bautista go over at Wrestlemania. It lead to an all-time great crowd-pleasing moment, but the story-line with The Authority mostly saw Bryan and other populal stars get buried for most of the run and it just got to be insufferable.

The Bloodline has managed to be a genuinely domninant heel faction that until their break-up had felt nearly unbeatable, but done in a way that still made it looks like any opponents had some hope so that they didn't feel overpowered. They didn't succumb to the same problem that made the NWO get stale back in the 90's with being rammed down people's throats for entire shows and having them dominate every time they were on screen. There was enough flaws to keep them interesting and having Sammy Zayn in the mix really added a great dynamic and contrast to the rest of the group and made the story that much more interesting until his baby-face turn earlier this year.

On that note, while both Zayn and Owens aren't impressive physically, and clearly aren't top draws outside of being associated with The Bloodline, I would give them a bit more credit than you might as I think they are really good with their in-ring work and also managed to add some much needed personality to interactions with The Usos, Solo, and Roman.

And yes, The Usos are great. I wouldn't go so far as calling them best tag team of all time myself. As a wrestling fan, I just couldn't in good faith put them above the likes of classics like Tully and Arn or some of my favorites from the Attitude Era like Edge and Christian or the Dudley Boys. Even if we are just talking about modern teams, I'd easily say that FTR outclasses any other tag team that I've seen in the modern age by miles. That said, you won't hear me denying anyone singing their praises. They have been exceptional both on the mic and in the ring, and the emotion that Jey in particular has brought forth through his feud with Roman has really cemented him as a star in my eyes. Solo is fresh, green young talent that they are cultivating through this angle, and he has grown a lot in such a short amount of time since his debut on the main roster. He still has a long way to go to being a main even singles star, but the fact that people expect that of his future at all is saying a lot for how well he has done for himself in all of this. What he lacks in size comapred to the rest of his family, he makes up for in his pshychotic demeanor while also having those hallmark Anoa'i family trait of coming off like a bad-ass Samoan.

And finally there is Roman. I have to say, while I wasn't particularly a fan of his during his baby-face run as The Big Dog, I always felt really bad for how much vitriol was thrown at him through fan backlash. Like, people got downright hateful to a level that made the negativity that someone like John Cena received during a large portion of his run seem kind by comparsion. I could always see the professionalism in him even when his mic skills and in-ring work were really lacking. But man, ever since he turned heel and got to show more of his personality, the guy has earned every bit of his status as the top guy of the company. Not only will his multi-year run as WWE Undisputed Champion go down in history as a one of the most legendary runs they have ever had in the modern age, but I genuinely think that his run as the Tribal Chief will completely overshadow the hate he got in the past several years leading up to it. People are going to remember him what what he has done since then and what he is doing now, as well as his beginnings in The Shield, and that is a testament to how much of an impression he has left on fans with the talent has has always clearly had but wasn't able to express before the Pandemic allowed creative to let him take risks like this.

QuoteCody Rhodes. Never thought I'd ever seen him and Brock going at it. Never thought I'd even like the idea of them going at it until I actually see them going at it, and I actually like it. I wanna say you can clearly see Brock trying to get Cody even more "over" than ever, but does Cody even need it at this point? This is David vs Goliath and if Cody actually beats Brock, kudos to Brock. Hell, speaking of Brock, ever since he came back with this Cowboy look, I love it. It looks like he's having the time of his life in there; like the shackles are off and he gets to just be himself a cut loose and I'm here for it.

It's interesting because you hear two very different takes on Brock from various different people. Everyone agrees that he's an incredible athlete and a huge draw, but he has been known for legitimately being a dick and an outright bully to people behind the scenes (which makes him quite the authentic heel). However, I have also heard from multiple people (including the likes of John Cena and The Undertaker, among others) that he can be one of the most professional and best people to work with in the ring, and that he is a very generous performer when it comes to putting others over. That is provided he actually takes a liking to you or at least has a professional level of respect for you, which he must have on some level for Cody given how good he has made Cody look in both of their matches so far.

As for the feud, I'd be lying if I said it's a particular favorite of mine, but it has still undeniably done it's job of keeping Cody in a top spot after having lost to Roman and Wrestlemania.  Speaking of which, what as your take on that outcome? A lot of people were pissed about it because they felt that he had earned that title win given everything that he has gone through both in and out of his time with the WWE as well as behind-the-scenes. I can definitely see that argument, but I'm in the camp that is willing to "wait and see" and "let things play out" since I can see the logic that WWE may have gone with if they have a better story to tell. That said, if this doesn't end up with Cody eventually winning the title for Dusty, I really have to join those questioning WWE's booking decisions here.

QuoteI don't know what's going on with Bray Wyatt or Bobby Lashley, but I wish they'd do more with them individually. Drew McIntyre should be used more (I don't know if he was injured, but it shouldn't have taken for him to leave to get a push. He should always be in front). The only other person I feel like they deserve a shot is L.A. Knight. This guy is IT.

Yeah, I'm not a fan of Bray Wyatt myself but I can't deny that he's a big draw and it has been really strange that they just dropped his story-line with Lashley out of nowhere and wouldn't elaborate further on his "injury" that has kep him out of action since then. Lashley definitely should have been utilized better than he has been, but the recent episodes of Raw and Smackdown with him recruiting The Sreet Profits and others have basically confirmed that he is assembling The Hurt Business 2.0 which could be incredible if done right. Drew McIntyre's booking has been so forgettable over the past couple of years other than his match with Roman at Clash at the Castle last year and his triple threat match with Sheamus and Gunther (legitimately one of the best matches of the year so far, BTW). I really hope they do more with him and have him feuding for the new World Champsionship before long (which, for the record, I hate the idea of, but at least if they are going to have it they might as well use it for other top guys that aren't Roman or Cody). That said, while I'm sure I will love his match with Gunther next weekend at Summerslam, I can't see him going over Gunther when he is still hot on his streak and close to beating the all-time record for longest reign with the Intercontinental Championship, so it'll be kind of deflating to see him take yet another high-profile loss after both Clash and Wrestlemania. Though, on that subject, Gunther has been an excellent heel and arguably the best in-ring worker for any of the big guys in WWE. Seth Rollins may be their best overall in-ring talent, but Gunther can easily be this company's top heel after Roman is finally dethroned and the Bloodline story comes to an end. Genuinely every single match that Gunther has been in since he debuted on the main roster has at minimum been good, and every PPV so far has basically been a certified classic with him in it.

LA Knight on the other hand, has basically had all of the qualities of a top star with genuinely no push from the company. It's actually baffling to me how slow WWE has been to respond to the natural fan support for him since the beginning of this year, and while I still hold out some hope that they will eventually give him a prominent role, the fact that he's already 40 and they have still been dawdling around with him for all this time does honestly have me a bit worried. You clearly have a guy who the fans already love and can very readily be inserted into a top spot on the roster. Fucking use him for that!

Dominik Mysterio on the other hand has been doing great for himself as a heel and I can actually see him managing to increase in popularity as time goes on. I don't think he'll ever be a top draw in the company, but he can definitely be one of their most memorable characters for years to come.

QuoteThere are some names I left out because they do nothing for me. The women division bores me, but I will say that it's about time that Shayna and Ronda is going at it. They should also be going after belts (that's don't include Tag Team in it). As much as I like Asuka, Charlotte and Rhea, Shayna needs to be included here. She's been sidelined way too much. Everyone else is whatever as well.

I genuinely like Rhea, Charlotte, and Asuka as in-ring workers, and find that Becky and Bianca are at least solid (even though they have very late 2010's John Cena style booking about them), and there are some other interesting prospects in the mix as well, but yeah, most of the women's division is rather forgettable. To be fair, a lot of that comes down to bad booking rather than a lack of talent, but I'm in the camp that feels like either go for it all the way or don't bother if you aren't going to make it as interesting as the guys' stuff. I mean, Rhea vs. Charlotte at Wrestlemania was flat-out the best actual wrestling match on the card out of both nights, so I'm not denying how great the women can be as talent. It's just that like you said, a lot of that content is really boring or forgettable.

On a side note, since you mentioned AEW, what have you thought of Collsion so far? I couldn't give two shits about Dynamite anymore, as I outright dropped it after CM Punk left (say what you want about the behind the scenes drama, but he had some of the only interesting feuds in the company byt hat point), and while I think that MJF is a great heel, he hasn't really had anyone else on his level on the mic to compete with.

As for Collision though, while I won't say that it's set the world on fire far, I have to say that it has been a breath of fresh air for me so far. It clearly has a style that is not only different from Dynamite or anything in the WWE, but that is also very evocative of classic 80's era wrestling TV. It has also had more serious style matches and less goofy comedy skits that I quite honestly find to be cringe most of the time on Dynamite and Rampage (which is a big part of why I couldn't stand watching them anymore). It has a long way to go if it's ever going to be considered a great wrestling show, but as of now, it does have me tuning in for at least part of it every Saturday Night because if nothing else I have gotten at least one if not more great matches of segments from every single show they have done so far.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Mustang on August 04, 2023, 12:40:27 PM
I don't actually "keep" up with wrestling. I mostly do the top 10's. If I like something from them I'll go check out the full segment. But anytime you want to bring up some wrestling, I'll check it out and get we can talk about it.

My thing with KO and Sammy, and just about 90% of the roster has nothing to do with their talent. I respect everyone that's wrestling today. I think just about everyone on the roster can put on a good match for the right price. Nah, to me they're just boring. Another part is that 90% are "technical" wrestlers and are all sort of Shawn Michaels/Chris Jericho. And then another part is Daniel Bryan and the "underdog" role. To be honest, I can narrow all of it down and tell you that Daniel Bryan ruined it for most of your wrestlers today, for me. I hated DB's run, and I hated the fan push. The vitriol that Bautisa and Roman got because DB got eliminated at the Royal Rumble onwards, yeah, I was done. People love their precious underdog story, and I don't.

I bring up the big guys because I'm for the big guys. While 90% (85% maybe?) wrestling now is like Chris Jericho and Shawn Michaels, they're always going to put on a great match, but I'm more impressed if a big guy can keep up with them smaller guys, especially if I see one move at a fast tempo. So for me, Roman and Drew (and a few others) are the guys because they're probably the biggest you'll probably get (without the roids. Not saying anyone is juicing now, but once upon a time, yeah), and when I see small guys being dominant over some of these big guys, it rubs me very wrong (Other than Brock, Bobby and Braun, I don't think there's been anything like that, I question CM Punk and Seth though). But for the most part it's basically boredom. And I think the only thing they can do to win me over is go get some form of training in acting. As for Dominik, I don't know if he can do anything to draw me in. I get it. That's his role, but I think he might need to go back to development (only for putting on some muscle).

QuoteAs for the feud, I'd be lying if I said it's a particular favorite of mine, but it has still undeniably done it's job of keeping Cody in a top spot after having lost to Roman and Wrestlemania.  Speaking of which, what as your take on that outcome? A lot of people were pissed about it because they felt that he had earned that title win given everything that he has gone through both in and out of his time with the WWE as well as behind-the-scenes. I can definitely see that argument, but I'm in the camp that is willing to "wait and see" and "let things play out" since I can see the logic that WWE may have gone with if they have a better story to tell. That said, if this doesn't end up with Cody eventually winning the title for Dusty, I really have to join those questioning WWE's booking decisions here.

Cody, Cody, Cody. I was definitely questioning why have Cody come back and lose at the time, because if it's not Cody then who? That was my thought process at the time. Now I'm of the wait and see camp, but I will say if Cody's not in that title picture after Brock and Cody decide to call it quits whenever then, yeah, I'll also join those booking decisions.

QuoteLA Knight on the other hand, has basically had all of the qualities of a top star with genuinely no push from the company. It's actually baffling to me how slow WWE has been to respond to the natural fan support for him since the beginning of this year, and while I still hold out some hope that they will eventually give him a prominent role, the fact that he's already 40 and they have still been dawdling around with him for all this time does honestly have me a bit worried. You clearly have a guy who the fans already love and can very readily be inserted into a top spot on the roster. Fucking use him for that!

Yeah, I have no idea why he's not involved in anything. It's cool that he's getting a shot for the US title, but he definitely deserves a bigger push than getting a shot at that.

QuoteI genuinely like Rhea, Charlotte, and Asuka as in-ring workers, and find that Becky and Bianca are at least solid (even though they have very late 2010's John Cena style booking about them), and there are some other interesting prospects in the mix as well, but yeah, most of the women's division is rather forgettable. To be fair, a lot of that comes down to bad booking rather than a lack of talent, but I'm in the camp that feels like either go for it all the way or don't bother if you aren't going to make it as interesting as the guys' stuff. I mean, Rhea vs. Charlotte at Wrestlemania was flat-out the best actual wrestling match on the card out of both nights, so I'm not denying how great the women can be as talent. It's just that like you said, a lot of that content is really boring or forgettable.

To be honest, I think the Women division need a shakeup. Those 3, plus Shayna, Bianca, Natalia and Iyo are the ones that should be running the division in my eyes. I don't know what the other ladies are doing, but for some reason those names can wrestle and look like they're actually wrestling and putting on a show. The other ladies in the back, what the hell's going on? Like Dominik, back to development.

As for Collision and AEW. I haven't seen Collision yet. When I said sprinkles of AEW. That's pretty much what it was. I saw Sting and Jericho in the ring together and then I watched another video of Sting and Orange Cassidy, and then I went down a Sting worm-hole back in the Nitro days. AEW is the reason I'm tired of stables. Actually, TNA is that reason, but AEW feels like there's a stable everywhere.

Anyway, anytime you wanna talk wrestling, go for it, it's just gonna take a little bit since I do most of my watching at work  :sly:
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on August 12, 2023, 06:20:57 PM
So, I gave it a chance, but the Jimmy turning on Jey swerve still feels like it came out of nowhere, even after the explanation, and I think it was the first major mistake of the entire Bloodline angle that I've seen in a long while (and that's not even counting Cody losing to Roman at Wrestlemania, which I consider to be Bloodline adjacent). I do hope they can recover from this but if I'm being honest, this is near jumping-the-shark territory for me for how stupid it all feels in the name of just trying to be dramatic.

I'm also questioning how they are going to justify keeping the title on Roman all the way until at least next year's Wrestlemania without having to write him off TV for several months, but it's looking like that's what they'll end up doing which isn't exactly a great alternative considering the main champion and face of the entire company will barely even be featured on the product.

I'm still trying to hold out a little bit of hope that they can salvage this story-line, but it looks like another case of the WWE not learning from past wrestling mistakes, in this case how WCW of all companies botched the NWO by keeping it going on for too long. This could very well be the modern version of that, for both better and worse.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Mustang on August 18, 2023, 12:06:39 PM
Yeah, the Jimmy swerve might be the angle that makes the rest of this story fall flat right on its face. And Jey, "quitting" WWE, if this is legit then that's gonna hurt a lot. And for me being the on and off kinda guy that I am, you kill the story I'm interested then I lose interest in everything else. Especially when that everything else (for me) is Cody, Drew, Bobby and Knight, and I don't like the direction I'm seeing from any of them. Maybe that'll change in a couple of weeks, who knows, but I don't like all this teaming up at the moment.

I also have to question just how long will they keep Roman with the title. The length you hold the belt is cool and all, and while I'll put him up there as one of the greats in this generation, this does not solidify him as a GOAT. I'm more impressed with how many times you've won it over how long you held onto it, and that's because, unfortunately the times we're in. Again, there are no standouts. So holding onto the title this long is kinda tainted a little bit for me (still great and I still love him).
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on August 23, 2023, 11:10:10 PM
At the final season of Mad Men. I admit, I don't like it nearly as much as the rest of canon of Golden Age TV shows like Sopranos, The Wire, and Breaking Bad, and some episodes in the middle stretch can be slogs, but I've had fun so far. Though it's strange to watch it from the perspective of somebody who mostly knows Jon Hamm for all the roles he took to break away from being typecast as Don, like all his comedic bits on Good Omens and Curb Your Enthusiasm.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on September 05, 2023, 05:12:38 AM
Caught by a extremely shitty fever where I'm either burning or in chills, and I spent some of that time watching Fleabag. And I don't know if the sickness dulled my senses that much, but Fleabag was fine, I guess. There are a couple scenes that I thought were moving, and it's another role where Olivia Colman steals the show, but I wasn't wowed.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on November 27, 2023, 12:14:02 PM
Hey, Mustang, not sure if you've followed anything with WWE or wrestling in general lately, but just had to know if you're aware of what happened at Survivor Series this past weekend?

Not only did we get a Randy Orton return (which was expected, but still great), but we actually got a CM Punk return at the very end, which very few people expected to actually happen based on the bad blood between him and WWE from his previous departure nearly a decade ago.

Whether you are a fan of his or not, this news is kind of insane and it makes me insanely intrigued to see how this effects the show going forward from here. As of right now, this is a MASSIVE blow to AEW.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Mustang on November 28, 2023, 06:34:40 PM
Yeah, I'm aware of Punk. Not exactly sure how I feel about it though. Part of me think this is HHH and whoever trying to move past the bad blood and just do whats good for business (heh). It's definitely a heavy blow to AEW for sure, but I don't know. To play devil's advocate for a minute. I was never a fan of Punk to begin with (best in the world meant nothing to me, although, he's good on the mic, I never cared for his ability in the ring), and considering that he might be a cancer in the locker room, I don't trust him. All that being said, in the end, it's on Punk.

As for Orton, that's good I guess. I guess I'm hesitant and skeptical about all of it because, in my eyes, if not Cody (or Drew) then who? When you bring in folks like a Punk, Orton and Cena, it takes away the shine from the ones that are next in line, and even with them, outside of LA Knight, again, a lot of them just fails to grab my attention. I told my brother about a week back that just about everyone that's under 36 need to go back to development and work on either their mic skills or building character. I might be contradicting myself a bit, but that's kinda why I've been keeping hush on it until someone grabbed my attention.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on February 03, 2024, 08:51:16 PM
So, while I understand Punk being a polarizing figure and you not being a fan of his, Mustang, you at least have to admit all of the things he said about The Rock over a decade ago (even if it was supposed to he a work) turned out to be pretty prophetic. He screwed Punk out of his main event spot and basically just fucked Cody's story in a matter of minutes.

I mean, I loved The Rock in his prime as a wrestler, and I get that he has more star power than just about anyone else, but to rob the spot from a guy who put in the work for a two-year build is one of the most deflating experiences I've ever had as a fan of anything. To be honest it has kind of killed my hype for this year's Wrestlemania and just the product in general going forward. And yeah, there's other talent that I like that will still get great matches, so it might come off as overreacting, but it still just feels so wrong to me (and based on other reactions, at least I'm not alone in feeling that way).
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Mustang on February 05, 2024, 03:15:32 PM
You caught me during my down moment with wrestling. I haven't watched nor followed anything wrestling for 2 months now. I just found out that the Royal Rumble happened 2 weeks ago lol. From what I've gathered is basically Rock making a splash at Wrestlemania and now everyone is pissed? Rock fits in that same category as Punk (As much as I like Rock).

Now you see why I'm always on and off with wrestling. The problem as a whole, new talent is terrible at developing their character and sounds like "insert old head" on the mic. Old head not stepping down nor helping new talent build character (I tell my brother all the time that development need to have these folk take acting lessons or something). The ones that got "IT" are small in numbers and old heads gun for their spot.

Cody losing to Reigns at the last Wrestlemania was a HUGE mistake. Cody, Reigns, USOs, Drew all pushing 40, and it's damn near time to bring in the next group. (Look at Lebron. He's also pushing 40. You start losing steps at 40. You start depending on others to carry more.) Can you still perform? Absolutely, but you start taking more days off. Father-time will rear it's head, especially in contact sports. Losing to Reigns and then putting so many people in his way, this almost seems like punishment for leaving the company.

But yeah, I have been off with WWE since I haven't cared much about how some folk have been handled (Drew and Cody being the main 2 and then Shayna Baszler)
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Ensatsu-ken on February 05, 2024, 11:11:12 PM
Drew has been excellent lately as a heel. His promos have gotten so much better.

Also, the crowd tonight was super anti-Rock.
Title: Re: Whatcha Bleedin' Watchin'?
Post by: Dr. Insomniac on March 05, 2024, 06:40:38 PM
So the new Shogun's pretty cool. Loving the production values and the command Hiroyuki Sanada has whenever he's on screen.