Victorian England seems to be in fashion. This lush production promises lots of scares, gore (the first confrontation with the nest of vampires was spectacular) and camp silliness. More graphic than NBC's "Dracula", more fun than "Ripper Street" (this show doesn't take itself too seriously).
I am reminded of the patchy but rollicking flick (2003)/graphic novel "The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen" with its 19th century horror characters. In this show we have vampires and Mina Harker, Dr Frankenstein and like the aforementioned film, Dorian Gray.
All the Victoriana staples are here: opium dens, Egyptologists, foggy gaslit alleyways, ritzy gentlemen's clubs, Ripper-like mayhem.
The cast is terrific: retired Bond, Timothy Dalton as the intrepid explorer; Eva Green (another Bond link) as the cool but gutsy Vanessa Ives (with the deductive powers of Sherlock Holmes) and Josh Hartnett as the troubled sharpshooter/adventurer.
Sam Mendes is the executive producer, John Logan (Skyfall), the creator/writer (two more links with James Bond).
The idea of a "demi monde" is an intriguing one.
More please. Looking forward to seeing Rory Kinnear as The Creature.
PS. the camera isn't shy with the male nudity.
Showing posts with label Series 1. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Series 1. Show all posts
Monday, 28 April 2014
Friday, 31 January 2014
"Uncle" BBC3 TV comedy Series 1 Series 2
I'm going to go out on a limb here, but "Uncle" is the best UK comedy (I'll specify 'family based', so I don't count the sublime "The IT Crowd") I've seen since "Beautiful People".
Lovable misfits, Andy (comedian/musician Nick Helm) and his 12 year old nephew, Errol (Elliot Speller-Gillott) have knockout chemistry together. You can see similarities with "Moone Boy" and to a lesser extent the Jack Black film "School of Rock".
Oliver Refson wrote and directed the first 3 episodes (and co-wrote the rest). The pilot started off at Channel 4, the producer then going over to BBC. Their loss.
Episode 3 featured a nifty 80's homage "I don't like you/ I like like you" (co-written by Nick Helms). I'm sure it has loads of hits on YouTube.
Episode 4 taught us useful tips: Jeremy Kyle and teenage knowledge, stress relief (screaming into your elbow) and dealing with panic attacks (the "diarrhoea"song). This show is full of believable and likeable characters (like the delightful "The Mimic" from last year).
Episode 5 resembled a French farce (lots of dashing out of doors and windows), Andy trying to juggle 3 girlfriends, as well as his needy, but sweet sister and Errol's school camp traumas. Best lines: "The Beatles...the Labrador puppies of pop music", Casper the Emo Ghost, balls dropping and "Geronimo!"
Episode 6 - a good way to go out. No soppy resolution, a realistic outcome. Only in "Uncle" could you find a link between killing zombies and farting daintily. Andy goes gangsta with "I'm f**king famous, bitch" and Errol goes Noel Coward/Flanders&Swann with his Germs/Salmonella Song.
Catch this little gem, only 6 episodes.
P.S. Nice to see the "Clockwork Orange" /kinky coffee table in the record producer's office.
Series 2 is just as good. Errol is one year older, and wiser. His relationship with Andy is even more symbiotic. This little gem has even made it down to Australia on SBS2.
Lovable misfits, Andy (comedian/musician Nick Helm) and his 12 year old nephew, Errol (Elliot Speller-Gillott) have knockout chemistry together. You can see similarities with "Moone Boy" and to a lesser extent the Jack Black film "School of Rock".
Oliver Refson wrote and directed the first 3 episodes (and co-wrote the rest). The pilot started off at Channel 4, the producer then going over to BBC. Their loss.
Episode 3 featured a nifty 80's homage "I don't like you/ I like like you" (co-written by Nick Helms). I'm sure it has loads of hits on YouTube.
Episode 4 taught us useful tips: Jeremy Kyle and teenage knowledge, stress relief (screaming into your elbow) and dealing with panic attacks (the "diarrhoea"song). This show is full of believable and likeable characters (like the delightful "The Mimic" from last year).
Episode 5 resembled a French farce (lots of dashing out of doors and windows), Andy trying to juggle 3 girlfriends, as well as his needy, but sweet sister and Errol's school camp traumas. Best lines: "The Beatles...the Labrador puppies of pop music", Casper the Emo Ghost, balls dropping and "Geronimo!"
Episode 6 - a good way to go out. No soppy resolution, a realistic outcome. Only in "Uncle" could you find a link between killing zombies and farting daintily. Andy goes gangsta with "I'm f**king famous, bitch" and Errol goes Noel Coward/Flanders&Swann with his Germs/Salmonella Song.
Catch this little gem, only 6 episodes.
P.S. Nice to see the "Clockwork Orange" /kinky coffee table in the record producer's office.
Series 2 is just as good. Errol is one year older, and wiser. His relationship with Andy is even more symbiotic. This little gem has even made it down to Australia on SBS2.
Saturday, 28 December 2013
Has "Vicious" improved? Series 1 Christmas episode, ITV
Against my better judgement I gave this tepid sitcom another go, bearing in mind how great Derek Jacobi was in Series 2 of "Last Tango in Halifax".
Nothing has changed. Obviously filmed straight after Episode 6, early in 2013. Same tired dialogue and obvious, crass situations ("Truth or Dare" resulted in Frances de la Tour having to mention Ash's penis). She must go home, look at the script and cry.
The studio audience must have been primed up with booze and chocs - laughing at almost anything (e.g. Ash's comments about his perennially drunk mother brought inappropriate titters).
How this waddle deserves a second season is beyond me. Perhaps if there was more mincing in "The Hour" and "Ripper Street" BBC wouldn't have cancelled both. No, silly comment, these were big budget dramas, whereas this sitcom is cheap (and nasty).
I know it's called "Vicious" but Gary Janetti ("Will and Grace", "Family Guy") seems to have forgotten how to write funny, gay stuff.
America's PBS has bought the rights (the prestigious cast must been a factor). Didn't they watch it?
Observation:
This dross reminds me of Stanley ("Singing in the Rain") Donen's 1969 misfire "Staircase" starring Richard Burton and Rex Harrison as the aging queens. Perhaps the play was better.
Nothing has changed. Obviously filmed straight after Episode 6, early in 2013. Same tired dialogue and obvious, crass situations ("Truth or Dare" resulted in Frances de la Tour having to mention Ash's penis). She must go home, look at the script and cry.
The studio audience must have been primed up with booze and chocs - laughing at almost anything (e.g. Ash's comments about his perennially drunk mother brought inappropriate titters).
How this waddle deserves a second season is beyond me. Perhaps if there was more mincing in "The Hour" and "Ripper Street" BBC wouldn't have cancelled both. No, silly comment, these were big budget dramas, whereas this sitcom is cheap (and nasty).
I know it's called "Vicious" but Gary Janetti ("Will and Grace", "Family Guy") seems to have forgotten how to write funny, gay stuff.
America's PBS has bought the rights (the prestigious cast must been a factor). Didn't they watch it?
Observation:
This dross reminds me of Stanley ("Singing in the Rain") Donen's 1969 misfire "Staircase" starring Richard Burton and Rex Harrison as the aging queens. Perhaps the play was better.
Tuesday, 3 December 2013
"Masters of Sex" Showtime, Episode 10, Episode 11, Episode 12 season final
This show goes from strength to strength. The intelligent script explores gender inequality, relationships and 50's society. No sex to speak of in these episode, not even a double entendre or lame sexual pun.
Masters and Johnson begin Episode 10 like a bickering married couple. Bill continues to be an aloof, selfish prick while Virginia once again is wise, fair and enlightened in her dealings with the world. No wonder she has taken up with team Du Paul. Even Ethan comes across as a good guy.
The scene in the hotel bar with the hooker where Margaret realises that hubby Barton is gay is beautifully handled. Plucky, all-rounder Jane pashing geeky, but nice Lester was a cute moment.
Setting the action around a nationwide nuclear attack drill was inspired.
The acting and casting in this series raise this show well above titillation fodder.
With Episode 11 Ethan has morphed into a new age guy, minding the kids and offering to be a house husband so Virginia can advance her career. Scenes when Bill turns to (ghost) Virginia for guidance were inspired. Michael Sheen's portrayal is subtle and multi-layered. He is icy and prickly one moment, tortured and about to explode the next. What does the lovely Libby see in Bill?
I am glad the Dr De Paul part has been expanded. Lillian and Virginia make a great couple. Virginia sums up the male/female careers dilemma with: "Having a dick doesn't hurt".
Jane ("You yelled, sir.") is a treasure. Still impressed by the exacting recreation of the era: references to Norman Vincent Peale, the streets filled with 50's cars and the brief fairground scene with Virginia singing in the recording booth.
Still think the new opening titles cheapen the proceedings - smoking pre-teens, cheesy visuals, closing office door.
Episode 11's title, "Phallic Victories" must be up there as one of the most intriguing titles in TV history. It's hardly "The Waltons" territory.
Episode 12, season final was wholly satisfying. Parallelling man in space with exploring sexual frontiers sort of worked. This series has always taken risks, though. Bill finally explodes (the fire extinguisher through the office window) as well as showing he can be loyal and caring (e.g. sharing writing credit with Virginia and saving the provost's neck).
Lots of truths are told - the Scully's sham (or is it) marriage, Ethan's Californian proposal and Bill's confession to Virginia. Who will she choose? Well, we know the outcome, Masters and Johnson finally married in 1971. But what happened in those 14 years? Hence Series 2 should be equally fascinating.
I know this show has taken some liberties with facts but so what, it's damn entertaining as well as a fascinating recreation of the era.
Coincidence: The wonderful Julianne Nicholson (Dr Julian DePaul) plays Ivy in "August: Osage County" who has cervical cancer.
Masters and Johnson begin Episode 10 like a bickering married couple. Bill continues to be an aloof, selfish prick while Virginia once again is wise, fair and enlightened in her dealings with the world. No wonder she has taken up with team Du Paul. Even Ethan comes across as a good guy.
The scene in the hotel bar with the hooker where Margaret realises that hubby Barton is gay is beautifully handled. Plucky, all-rounder Jane pashing geeky, but nice Lester was a cute moment.
Setting the action around a nationwide nuclear attack drill was inspired.
The acting and casting in this series raise this show well above titillation fodder.
With Episode 11 Ethan has morphed into a new age guy, minding the kids and offering to be a house husband so Virginia can advance her career. Scenes when Bill turns to (ghost) Virginia for guidance were inspired. Michael Sheen's portrayal is subtle and multi-layered. He is icy and prickly one moment, tortured and about to explode the next. What does the lovely Libby see in Bill?
I am glad the Dr De Paul part has been expanded. Lillian and Virginia make a great couple. Virginia sums up the male/female careers dilemma with: "Having a dick doesn't hurt".
Jane ("You yelled, sir.") is a treasure. Still impressed by the exacting recreation of the era: references to Norman Vincent Peale, the streets filled with 50's cars and the brief fairground scene with Virginia singing in the recording booth.
Still think the new opening titles cheapen the proceedings - smoking pre-teens, cheesy visuals, closing office door.
Episode 11's title, "Phallic Victories" must be up there as one of the most intriguing titles in TV history. It's hardly "The Waltons" territory.
Episode 12, season final was wholly satisfying. Parallelling man in space with exploring sexual frontiers sort of worked. This series has always taken risks, though. Bill finally explodes (the fire extinguisher through the office window) as well as showing he can be loyal and caring (e.g. sharing writing credit with Virginia and saving the provost's neck).
Lots of truths are told - the Scully's sham (or is it) marriage, Ethan's Californian proposal and Bill's confession to Virginia. Who will she choose? Well, we know the outcome, Masters and Johnson finally married in 1971. But what happened in those 14 years? Hence Series 2 should be equally fascinating.
I know this show has taken some liberties with facts but so what, it's damn entertaining as well as a fascinating recreation of the era.
Coincidence: The wonderful Julianne Nicholson (Dr Julian DePaul) plays Ivy in "August: Osage County" who has cervical cancer.
Tuesday, 19 November 2013
Best episode so far: "Masters of Sex" Showtime Series 1, Episode 8 "Love and Marriage"
Was it me, or was this the best episode yet? Definitely the funniest.
Dr Masters has a thing that no mayonnaise should be left around his research area.That weird bit about chocolate brownies.
Lester, the movie geek, recruited to film 'interior' shots for the sex researchers, makes a throw away comment about Bogie and Agnes Moorehead in "Dark Passage" (Oh, pl-ease!). Then Jane does a Gloria Swanson with, "I'm ready for my close-up" (Mr DeMille). (Best line of the night)
Walter, the young handyman (yes, we are in Douglas Sirk 50's melodrama territory) teaching Libby the tango. That black dude beats Arthur Murray.
Then things get serious - Libby is pregnant again, selling pap smears to disinterested male doctors and evaluating marriage with Ethan (being forced to jump in the deep end too early) and Austin (jaded, part-time husband/father, sex addict).
"Married men live longer" (Ethan)
"It just seems longer" (Austin)
The confrontation in the bar with Margaret, Barton and Dale. Allison Janney is heartbreaking.
Barton and Dale talking about aversion therapy. Another strong scene.
The realisation that the glacial Dr Lillian DePaul is dying with cervical cancer. Wow, this explains a lot.
A great episode.
Dr Masters has a thing that no mayonnaise should be left around his research area.That weird bit about chocolate brownies.
Lester, the movie geek, recruited to film 'interior' shots for the sex researchers, makes a throw away comment about Bogie and Agnes Moorehead in "Dark Passage" (Oh, pl-ease!). Then Jane does a Gloria Swanson with, "I'm ready for my close-up" (Mr DeMille). (Best line of the night)
Walter, the young handyman (yes, we are in Douglas Sirk 50's melodrama territory) teaching Libby the tango. That black dude beats Arthur Murray.
Then things get serious - Libby is pregnant again, selling pap smears to disinterested male doctors and evaluating marriage with Ethan (being forced to jump in the deep end too early) and Austin (jaded, part-time husband/father, sex addict).
"Married men live longer" (Ethan)
"It just seems longer" (Austin)
The confrontation in the bar with Margaret, Barton and Dale. Allison Janney is heartbreaking.
Barton and Dale talking about aversion therapy. Another strong scene.
The realisation that the glacial Dr Lillian DePaul is dying with cervical cancer. Wow, this explains a lot.
A great episode.
Sunday, 3 November 2013
"Dracula" NBC TV Series 1, Episode 2 "A Whiff of Sulphur", review
Look, I know it's cheesy and the accents are a worry, but I haven't had so much fun since "Orphan Black".
The idea of having Dracula and Van Helsing forming an alliance (can I say, potential bromance?) is delicious. Jonathan Harker being seduced (not as in the book, by the brides of Dracula) but the promise of property and position, is inspired.
We have Renfield - not a mindless slave but a strong, black dude with a sardonic sense of humour. Opium fiend-twins occult "seers" pursuing Drac through London (Prague?) alleyways courtesy of a magic mirror.
Loved Drac's horseless carriage also.
Had a problem with modern phrases like "having some agenda..."
The coolest opening title credits since "Elementary" plus atmospheric lighting (diffuse light, fog, candles, gaslight, you name it) plus a bit of soft core porn and a visit to a Victorian gay bar. What's not to like?
Well done NBC (and Carnival... I saw Gareth Neame in the credits, movie heritage there, his grandad, Ronald directed "The Poseidon Adventure" (1972). But I digress...
The idea of having Dracula and Van Helsing forming an alliance (can I say, potential bromance?) is delicious. Jonathan Harker being seduced (not as in the book, by the brides of Dracula) but the promise of property and position, is inspired.
We have Renfield - not a mindless slave but a strong, black dude with a sardonic sense of humour. Opium fiend-twins occult "seers" pursuing Drac through London (Prague?) alleyways courtesy of a magic mirror.
Loved Drac's horseless carriage also.
Had a problem with modern phrases like "having some agenda..."
The coolest opening title credits since "Elementary" plus atmospheric lighting (diffuse light, fog, candles, gaslight, you name it) plus a bit of soft core porn and a visit to a Victorian gay bar. What's not to like?
Well done NBC (and Carnival... I saw Gareth Neame in the credits, movie heritage there, his grandad, Ronald directed "The Poseidon Adventure" (1972). But I digress...
Tuesday, 29 October 2013
"Masters of Sex" Showtime Series 1, Episode 6, "Brave New World"
Lots to enjoy in this episode. No wonder a second season has been ordered.
Starting with the lecture scene with Anna Freud (bearing a resemblance to Austin Powers' Frau Farbissina) clarifying her father's theories on the female orgasm. The sad scene with the proctor's wife realising the even sadder state of her sex life; contrasted with the randy senior citizens (Barry Bostwick plays the old lecher) using "Pop goes the Weasel" as a turn-on. An interesting analogy (during ladies' mahjong) about comfortable shoes and sexual pleasure.
Fabulous art direction in the Miami hotel (circa 1957) and an appropriate sexual dalliance after a screening of "Peyton Place".
Lots to say about sexual inequality, not just in the bedroom, but in the workplace. I liked Virginia's line, "Freud was a lousy lover".
It seems each episode must have one dodgy double entendre. This time: The blond doctor worried about erectile dysfunction while a guy in the elevator cries, "Going up?".
Starting with the lecture scene with Anna Freud (bearing a resemblance to Austin Powers' Frau Farbissina) clarifying her father's theories on the female orgasm. The sad scene with the proctor's wife realising the even sadder state of her sex life; contrasted with the randy senior citizens (Barry Bostwick plays the old lecher) using "Pop goes the Weasel" as a turn-on. An interesting analogy (during ladies' mahjong) about comfortable shoes and sexual pleasure.
Fabulous art direction in the Miami hotel (circa 1957) and an appropriate sexual dalliance after a screening of "Peyton Place".
Lots to say about sexual inequality, not just in the bedroom, but in the workplace. I liked Virginia's line, "Freud was a lousy lover".
It seems each episode must have one dodgy double entendre. This time: The blond doctor worried about erectile dysfunction while a guy in the elevator cries, "Going up?".
Monday, 28 October 2013
"Masters of Sex" Showtime Series 1, Episode 5, "Catherine"- spoilers
The first 40 minutes are slow moving and mannered. Then ka-boom! All hell breaks loose.
A spooky scene where William mistakes Virginia's child in the hospital corridor for the daughter he might have had. A truly devastating scene in the operating theatre with Dr Johnson holding his dead child (to be named Catherine). A bitter confrontation with his mum. Then the final scene where Bill's calm facade finally shatters. "Close your eyes", he desperately tells Virginia. Caitlin Fitzgerald is damn good as Libby Masters.
My own daughter (20 years) left the room about 20 minutes in, telling me I was watching "porn". She should have stuck around for the real drama.
A spooky scene where William mistakes Virginia's child in the hospital corridor for the daughter he might have had. A truly devastating scene in the operating theatre with Dr Johnson holding his dead child (to be named Catherine). A bitter confrontation with his mum. Then the final scene where Bill's calm facade finally shatters. "Close your eyes", he desperately tells Virginia. Caitlin Fitzgerald is damn good as Libby Masters.
My own daughter (20 years) left the room about 20 minutes in, telling me I was watching "porn". She should have stuck around for the real drama.
Tuesday, 20 August 2013
The best episode of "Ray Donovan" so far, "Bridget" Episode 8 review
Ann Biderman wrote this beautifully structured episode. A lot to like this week - revolving around the brothers' yearly toasting ceremony for Bridget's birthday. Loved:
- Lesbian Lena (Katherine Moennig, from "The L Word", is she being typecast?) getting love advice from Ray's Israeli henchman, Avi.
- Mickey (Jon Voight) asking Rosanna Arquette (David's sis, remember her?) whether she would twerk for him.
- The piercing episode with young Bridget (as a parent of a teenage daughter, I can empathise)
- Learning a new way to negotiate price with a real estate agent (using a tazer)
- Bridget and dad ending the ep with a cuddle and a singalong.
More please (oh and some more James Woods, also).
Wednesday, 14 August 2013
"Count Arthur Strong" BBC Episode 6 "The Seance" series final review
The series final was big on heart rather than laughs. A nice gag in the opening scene with Katya's stalled coffin. Arthur's line at the seance: "My mother was an extra large medium" and smooching in the dark with Michael and the lovely Sinem (Zahra Ahmadi) made me smile.
Katya's leg send off was a nice touch.
Michael's parting gift to Arthur with its poignant book dedication (which scored an honest reaction from the live, NOT 'canned' audience) rounded off this sweet little series.
Katya's leg send off was a nice touch.
Michael's parting gift to Arthur with its poignant book dedication (which scored an honest reaction from the live, NOT 'canned' audience) rounded off this sweet little series.
Tuesday, 13 August 2013
Five cool things about "Ray Donovan" Episode 7 "New Birthday"
1. The recreation of the 90's action movie.
2. The stark Boston graveyard scene, little white dog tramping through the snow.
3. Ray meeting James Woods (Sully) in the chapel.
4. The boozy girls' lunch ("Ruth has a dick!") ending with a spot of impromptu Rodeo Drive shoplifting.
5. In the beauty parlour, Sully's mom (100 year old actress, Connie Sawyer) telling Ray to go f**k himself.
This show is getting better with each episode as Ray's past is slowly unravelling. Liked Lesli Linka Glatter's direction this week. She has directed "The Newsroom" episodes in both seasons.
2. The stark Boston graveyard scene, little white dog tramping through the snow.
3. Ray meeting James Woods (Sully) in the chapel.
4. The boozy girls' lunch ("Ruth has a dick!") ending with a spot of impromptu Rodeo Drive shoplifting.
5. In the beauty parlour, Sully's mom (100 year old actress, Connie Sawyer) telling Ray to go f**k himself.
This show is getting better with each episode as Ray's past is slowly unravelling. Liked Lesli Linka Glatter's direction this week. She has directed "The Newsroom" episodes in both seasons.
Tuesday, 6 August 2013
Why I enjoyed "Ray Donovan" more than "Dexter"
By Episode 6 of "Ray Donovan" I was won over, after a few patchy earlier eps. My reasons:
- Some great Bunchy scenes this week. Dash Mihok is a great actor - to upstage Jon Voight takes something.
- Elliott Gould in a hospital johnny showing his tush on the L.A. streets
- The acid scenes with OCD, "Star Wars" figurine-loving FBI Agent Miller were inspirational
- The 5 star hotel sperm bank. Puts a whole new meaning to 'room service'.
- Lampshade obscuring the guy's junk in said hotel room. A tribute to Austin Powers' lampshade/naughty bits schtick?
- Introducing James Woods in the final scene. Good move, Showtime.
The final season of "Dexter" was all over the shop. I've stuck with him for eight seasons. Bringing the serial poisoner back into the mix was silly. Dr Vogel became a bore as was ghost dad.
The final episode of "Dexter" was a change in tone and helped to redeem the series. The scenes on the Dexter's boat, heading into the storm were haunting and surreal. The mute, numb lumberjack .... who saw that one coming? I have my doubts about Harrison in Buenos Aires, though. That kid has been pushed from pillar to post ... must be a resilient little tacker.
Whereas "Ray Donovan" Series 1 has been consistently engrossing as well as good fun.
Episode 10, "Fite Night", was dynamite. In Episode 11, the scene in the gym with Ray and the priest knocked my socks off. The look on Abby's face when she sees the priest said it all. I also liked Conor playing video games with Avi, the ex-Mossad agent.
This series went from strength to strength.
Episode 12, a totally satisfying conclusion to Series 1. The marina shootout was stunning. Final scene on the beach with Ray's family, a delight. What a coup getting Michael Apted (master documentary director - "7 Up" series) to film the final episode.
Series 2 has much to live up to.
Apology: this is the crappiest post I have written, jumbled and haphazard. Written too late at night.
The final episode of "Dexter" was a change in tone and helped to redeem the series. The scenes on the Dexter's boat, heading into the storm were haunting and surreal. The mute, numb lumberjack .... who saw that one coming? I have my doubts about Harrison in Buenos Aires, though. That kid has been pushed from pillar to post ... must be a resilient little tacker.
Whereas "Ray Donovan" Series 1 has been consistently engrossing as well as good fun.
Episode 10, "Fite Night", was dynamite. In Episode 11, the scene in the gym with Ray and the priest knocked my socks off. The look on Abby's face when she sees the priest said it all. I also liked Conor playing video games with Avi, the ex-Mossad agent.
This series went from strength to strength.
Episode 12, a totally satisfying conclusion to Series 1. The marina shootout was stunning. Final scene on the beach with Ray's family, a delight. What a coup getting Michael Apted (master documentary director - "7 Up" series) to film the final episode.
Series 2 has much to live up to.
Apology: this is the crappiest post I have written, jumbled and haphazard. Written too late at night.
Friday, 21 June 2013
"Hannibal" NBC Episode 13 Series 1 final "Savoureux" review, spoilers
Don't expect fast moving action in this series final. This is a mood piece. The beautifully executed final scene between Will and Hannibal (with Mads Mikkelsen's glimmer of a smile). He knows that he knows. And he knows that he knows....
Dr Du Maurier (Gillian Anderson) certainly knows heaps about Lecter's past.
No graphic violence, apart from a regurgitated ear in Will's kitchen sink. Toward the end, Will sees Hannibal as the darkly demonic deer creature he has been dreaming of throughout this series - the realisation of who and what Lecter is. Now you realise what Lecter was doing with Will's fishing lures in an early episode.
I suppose some viewers might be getting a bit toey (restless) - waiting for a confrontation. But I think the tension is delicious - as delicious as Hannibal's weekly gourmet treats.
Series 2 must feature the missing Abigail (Kacey Rohl).
Dr Du Maurier (Gillian Anderson) certainly knows heaps about Lecter's past.
No graphic violence, apart from a regurgitated ear in Will's kitchen sink. Toward the end, Will sees Hannibal as the darkly demonic deer creature he has been dreaming of throughout this series - the realisation of who and what Lecter is. Now you realise what Lecter was doing with Will's fishing lures in an early episode.
I suppose some viewers might be getting a bit toey (restless) - waiting for a confrontation. But I think the tension is delicious - as delicious as Hannibal's weekly gourmet treats.
Series 2 must feature the missing Abigail (Kacey Rohl).
Saturday, 8 June 2013
"Hannibal" NBC Series 1, Episode 11 "Roti" review
It is novel to find a lead character in a prime time show who is truly disturbed. Will is the real deal. As usual, the show serves up some stunning images - glaciers, tidal waves and the corpse totem. Let's not forget Will's 'wet dream'. Use of colour is powerful - wintry greys and white contrasted with deep greens and blood red.
The scene on the operating table ("Ms Lounds will be assisting") combined the gruesome with the comic - shades of the 1985 cult movie "Re-Animator". Nice to see Dr Gideon (Eddie Izzard) back (Bryan Fuller worked with Izzard in the "Mockingbird Lane" pilot). "Hannibal" raises the issue of the power of psychiatrists can wield with their patients.
Check out the thriller cliche - the killer waiting in the car's rear seat - nice switcheroo - this time the killer is in the front seat.
The final scene with Gillian Anderson as Hannibal's savvy shrink was good value.
The scene on the operating table ("Ms Lounds will be assisting") combined the gruesome with the comic - shades of the 1985 cult movie "Re-Animator". Nice to see Dr Gideon (Eddie Izzard) back (Bryan Fuller worked with Izzard in the "Mockingbird Lane" pilot). "Hannibal" raises the issue of the power of psychiatrists can wield with their patients.
Check out the thriller cliche - the killer waiting in the car's rear seat - nice switcheroo - this time the killer is in the front seat.
The final scene with Gillian Anderson as Hannibal's savvy shrink was good value.
Friday, 7 June 2013
"Da Vinci's Demons" Series 1 final, Episode 8 "The Lovers" review
A ripper cliffhanger!
Loads of tension builds up as the Medici family prepare for Holy Communion. Showdown in the cathedral, blood-daubed priests, poisonous wafers, the lovely Vanessa carries on the Giuliano's name, Lucrezia earns her stripes and Leo saves the day for Lorenzo and Florence.
Nice to see mascara-boy back - cool flashback reuniting the Sons of Mithras in Constantinople. Nice astrolabe, dude.
I was looking forward to seeing the three amigos (Leo, Zor and Nico) sail off on their New World adventures. Singing, "We're off on the road to El Dorado"??? Perhaps Series 2.
This series has benefitted from some very complex characters - like Dragonetti and Lucrezia.
A shame Joel Grey/Roman Polanski lookalike Pazzi escaped at the end. Glad Riario (Fab shades, by the way) can be evil in the next season.
Loads of tension builds up as the Medici family prepare for Holy Communion. Showdown in the cathedral, blood-daubed priests, poisonous wafers, the lovely Vanessa carries on the Giuliano's name, Lucrezia earns her stripes and Leo saves the day for Lorenzo and Florence.
Nice to see mascara-boy back - cool flashback reuniting the Sons of Mithras in Constantinople. Nice astrolabe, dude.
I was looking forward to seeing the three amigos (Leo, Zor and Nico) sail off on their New World adventures. Singing, "We're off on the road to El Dorado"??? Perhaps Series 2.
This series has benefitted from some very complex characters - like Dragonetti and Lucrezia.
A shame Joel Grey/Roman Polanski lookalike Pazzi escaped at the end. Glad Riario (Fab shades, by the way) can be evil in the next season.
Saturday, 1 June 2013
"Up the Women" BBC4 TV series Episode 1, Episode 2, Episode 3 review
You think, O God, is this going to be a Frankie Howerd spinoff? No, it's a brave (could have been a train wreck) sitcom (1910 suffragettes) that is ten times better written and funnier than ITV's new sitcom "Vicious".
Don't forget the message, we seem to take this for granted these days, but feminism needs a kick in the pants after watching that reactionary 'sister' on "10 O'clock Live" last week.
After a rocky first scene, I settled back to enjoy this, as each character entered the Banbury Church Hall. The live audience is not as obtrusive after the first few minutes.
The lovable daffy nun (Judy Parfitt) from "Call the Midwife" has the best lines. I think I spied the sexy receptionist (Emma Pierson) from "Hotel Babylon" too. Adding to the fun, a very different Ryan Sampson (Grumio in Plebs). Boy, this guy is versatile.
Anyway I was won over by the end of the episode. This is Jessica Hynes's baby. Nice to see BBC has given bub a second series in 2014 (this time with 6 episodes). For good reason.
UPDATE: just watched this first episode again, few days later, this time with the wife....it's definitely a winner. Nicely written, sitcom with a heart. Episode 2 had more Ryan Sampson, too! Emma Pierson had a brilliant scene about her multitude of sprogs. It was as consistently funny as the first episode.
Third and final episode of the series featured a Monty Python-ish bit with the tiny Emmeline Pankhurst (Sandy Toksvig hiding under an enormous bonnet) portrayed as a school bully. This final half hour episode pulled out all the stops. I laughed out loud one moment, and was moved the next by the warm and well-drawn characters. Jessica Hynes's plaintive, tremulous voice is quite stirring.
Don't forget the message, we seem to take this for granted these days, but feminism needs a kick in the pants after watching that reactionary 'sister' on "10 O'clock Live" last week.
After a rocky first scene, I settled back to enjoy this, as each character entered the Banbury Church Hall. The live audience is not as obtrusive after the first few minutes.
The lovable daffy nun (Judy Parfitt) from "Call the Midwife" has the best lines. I think I spied the sexy receptionist (Emma Pierson) from "Hotel Babylon" too. Adding to the fun, a very different Ryan Sampson (Grumio in Plebs). Boy, this guy is versatile.
Anyway I was won over by the end of the episode. This is Jessica Hynes's baby. Nice to see BBC has given bub a second series in 2014 (this time with 6 episodes). For good reason.
UPDATE: just watched this first episode again, few days later, this time with the wife....it's definitely a winner. Nicely written, sitcom with a heart. Episode 2 had more Ryan Sampson, too! Emma Pierson had a brilliant scene about her multitude of sprogs. It was as consistently funny as the first episode.
Third and final episode of the series featured a Monty Python-ish bit with the tiny Emmeline Pankhurst (Sandy Toksvig hiding under an enormous bonnet) portrayed as a school bully. This final half hour episode pulled out all the stops. I laughed out loud one moment, and was moved the next by the warm and well-drawn characters. Jessica Hynes's plaintive, tremulous voice is quite stirring.
"Hannibal" NBC Series 1, Episode 10 "Buffet Froid" review
Great to see NBC have commissioned Series 2. Shades of the supernatural in this disturbing episode. But then, aren't they all disturbing?
Hannibal capitalises on poor Will's mental state, again. Will's actual drawing of the clock face was a nice touch, well researched. The cadaverous girl under the bed and the opening up of the face (think Batman's The Joker meets a Pez fliptop pack) will cause nightmares for some young ones.
Liked the bit about Lecter's acute sense of smell and his medical colleague saying that Hannibal is the sanest man he knows (later Hannibal opens up the good doctor's face with a pair of scissors).
Three observations:
Jack (Laurence Fishburne) is the boss everybody would love to have - loyal and principled.
The curse of thrillers: the victim always does dumb things - would you follow the wet footprints back to your bedroom?
For a gourmand, Hannibal (Mads Mikkelsen) has atrocious table manners. Watch what he does with his left hand when using a fork. Eeeek!
Trivia: In Australia, "Hannibal" is struggling in the ratings, the Seven Network have buried the show after 10:45 p.m. mid week.
Hannibal capitalises on poor Will's mental state, again. Will's actual drawing of the clock face was a nice touch, well researched. The cadaverous girl under the bed and the opening up of the face (think Batman's The Joker meets a Pez fliptop pack) will cause nightmares for some young ones.
Liked the bit about Lecter's acute sense of smell and his medical colleague saying that Hannibal is the sanest man he knows (later Hannibal opens up the good doctor's face with a pair of scissors).
Three observations:
Jack (Laurence Fishburne) is the boss everybody would love to have - loyal and principled.
The curse of thrillers: the victim always does dumb things - would you follow the wet footprints back to your bedroom?
For a gourmand, Hannibal (Mads Mikkelsen) has atrocious table manners. Watch what he does with his left hand when using a fork. Eeeek!
Trivia: In Australia, "Hannibal" is struggling in the ratings, the Seven Network have buried the show after 10:45 p.m. mid week.
Thursday, 30 May 2013
"Da Vinci's Demons" Series 1, Episode 7 "The Hierophant" review, spoilers
God, I'm thick, just realising each episode title refers to a tarot card.
This is the penultimate episode in Series 1. We know Series 2 is going ahead so next week's episode shouldn't have too many revelations and disclosures. So much happened in this one, though. Leo's scuba dives into the Vatican, arising from the pope's misty bath waters like Martin Sheen in "Apocalypse Now". That snake-in-the-grass Pazzi poisoning one of his co-conspirators in front of his fellow villains. Remember James Bond villain, Blofeld? He used to top one of his underlings in Spectre HQ, as a warning to the rest. You know: "Kill Bond!" Enter piranha..... (gulp)"Yes No.1!"
Sorry, I'm rambling.
We discover why Lucrezia is a spy for Rome. Dad is the papal prisoner who played the board game with Riario in Episode 3. I wanted more time in the secret archives under the Vatican. Loved the papal elevator.
Didn't expect loyal Giulino (Tom Bateman) to be written out in the last scene. At least he had a good time with Vanessa the Underdresser.
This is the penultimate episode in Series 1. We know Series 2 is going ahead so next week's episode shouldn't have too many revelations and disclosures. So much happened in this one, though. Leo's scuba dives into the Vatican, arising from the pope's misty bath waters like Martin Sheen in "Apocalypse Now". That snake-in-the-grass Pazzi poisoning one of his co-conspirators in front of his fellow villains. Remember James Bond villain, Blofeld? He used to top one of his underlings in Spectre HQ, as a warning to the rest. You know: "Kill Bond!" Enter piranha..... (gulp)"Yes No.1!"
Sorry, I'm rambling.
We discover why Lucrezia is a spy for Rome. Dad is the papal prisoner who played the board game with Riario in Episode 3. I wanted more time in the secret archives under the Vatican. Loved the papal elevator.
Didn't expect loyal Giulino (Tom Bateman) to be written out in the last scene. At least he had a good time with Vanessa the Underdresser.
Friday, 24 May 2013
"Hannibal" NBC TV Series Episode 9, "Tros Normand" review, spoilers
Best murder tableau yet.
The towering body part totem pole on the wintry beach confirms what a visually arresting show this is. God, it looks cold on that beach.
A great episode. Abigail (Kacey Rohl) is back. We find out she used to procure girls for dad so he wouldn't have the desire to kill her. Obnoxious tabloid parasite Freddie Lounds is sniffing around again. Invited, with her new bestie Abigail, to Lecter's dinner party. She is a vegetarian - wouldn't ya know it?
Hannibal takes advantage of a vulnerable Will - Will to keep stum about the Nick Boyle arrangement with the doctor and Abigail.
What a great question psychologist Dr Bloom asks Will, "Do you feel unstable?" He vigorously nods.
Great to see stalwart Lance Henriksen (remember Bishop, the loyal android in "Aliens") as the cold psycho sitting back complacently in his Naugahyde armchair. But Will has the last laugh.
Interesting side note: Hugh Dancy and Mads Mikkelsen became good friends while "King Arthur" (2004) according to Bryan Fuller in an interview for "Time Out". Fuller wanted to capitalise on that link when he cast these two.
The towering body part totem pole on the wintry beach confirms what a visually arresting show this is. God, it looks cold on that beach.
A great episode. Abigail (Kacey Rohl) is back. We find out she used to procure girls for dad so he wouldn't have the desire to kill her. Obnoxious tabloid parasite Freddie Lounds is sniffing around again. Invited, with her new bestie Abigail, to Lecter's dinner party. She is a vegetarian - wouldn't ya know it?
Hannibal takes advantage of a vulnerable Will - Will to keep stum about the Nick Boyle arrangement with the doctor and Abigail.
What a great question psychologist Dr Bloom asks Will, "Do you feel unstable?" He vigorously nods.
Great to see stalwart Lance Henriksen (remember Bishop, the loyal android in "Aliens") as the cold psycho sitting back complacently in his Naugahyde armchair. But Will has the last laugh.
Interesting side note: Hugh Dancy and Mads Mikkelsen became good friends while "King Arthur" (2004) according to Bryan Fuller in an interview for "Time Out". Fuller wanted to capitalise on that link when he cast these two.
Tuesday, 21 May 2013
"Bates Motel" Series 1 final, Episode 10 "Midnight" review
Let me say from the start, Vera Farmiga is amazing as Norma Bates. She is such an accomplished actress. So good in Clooney's "Up in the Air" (2009).
In this final episode, one minute it's screwball comedy delivery, then she is telling Norman about sibling incest and a violent father. The Bates family Christmas dinner must have been a laff riot.
Lots of great bits this week:
The target practice scene with Dylan and Norma was endearing. Midnight at the docks.... don't piss off Sheriff Romano! At screwy Miss Watson's place ... Norman becomes 'teacher's pet' - the pivotal scene when Norman hears mom (in his head) tell him, "You know what you have to do....." The die is cast. No turning back now. The cliffchanger, does Norman top his teacher?
A great end to Series 1, paving the way for more Bates twistedness/White Pine Bay corruption in Series 2.
I'm in.
In this final episode, one minute it's screwball comedy delivery, then she is telling Norman about sibling incest and a violent father. The Bates family Christmas dinner must have been a laff riot.
Lots of great bits this week:
The target practice scene with Dylan and Norma was endearing. Midnight at the docks.... don't piss off Sheriff Romano! At screwy Miss Watson's place ... Norman becomes 'teacher's pet' - the pivotal scene when Norman hears mom (in his head) tell him, "You know what you have to do....." The die is cast. No turning back now. The cliffchanger, does Norman top his teacher?
A great end to Series 1, paving the way for more Bates twistedness/White Pine Bay corruption in Series 2.
I'm in.
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