The General Television Thread - 2009 Edition

[paper]

Are you ready for the switch to digital? Of course you are. What's on your Tivo and what are you dying to watch live?

[cenquist]

I am not ready for digital yet!

[cenquist]

I am looking forward to seeing the new direction CSI will be going now that Fisburne has been added to the cast.

[thenextchampion]

Cant wait for Dollhouse to come out on Feburary 13th.......


....Then quickly get cancelled April 24th 2009

[conorkilpatrick]

Cant wait for Dollhouse to come out on Feburary 13th.......


....Then quickly get cancelled April 24th 2009

Hmmm... you're optimistic, I see.

[paper]

It's terrible, but I'm looking forward to Dollhouse getting cancelled so Joss will be free to work on more Dr. Horrible projects.

Speaking of, Conor, you ought to check it out. It was a really fun project.

[gungadin]

I might have gotten my hands on the Dollhouse pilot script... And I might have read it... And if I did it was kick ass and it made me all giddy...

Even though it's all changed...

On the bright side, we're getting 13 episodes, so that's a plus; and with today's DVD market we'll get them (and the scrapped pilot which might turn out awesome) on DVD.

[gungadin]

I also started the second season of Doctor Who. That is just greatness. I'm in love... again...

[paper]

Dr. Who rules. I'm in the first third of season 4. Wonderful wonderful wonderful. The Paul Cornell episodes, particularly in season 3, were really cool.

I added a bunch of the old series to my Netflix Watch Now queue.

[thenextchampion]

Hmmm... you're optimistic, I see.

Have you seen Joss Whedon's track record on TV shows lately?

Firefly got cancelled 11 episodes in and still had 3 more before the season ended.
Buffy: The Animated Series never got off the ground.

Just saying Dollhouse will last the entire season is more then generous.

[conorkilpatrick]

Have you seen Joss Whedon's track record on TV shows lately?

Firefly got cancelled 11 episodes in and still had 3 more before the season ended.
Buffy: The Animated Series never got off the ground.

Just saying Dollhouse will last the entire season is more then generous.

I know. I'm agreeing with you.

[tad]

Animated Buffy as a project is several years old so it doesn't really fall under "lately."

I'm finally catching Firefly on Hulu.com and understand the rabid fans. Cool stuff. Almost through though. :(

[thenextchampion]

I know. I'm agreeing with you.

Oh sorry.....it's hard to tell (rim shot)

Is there any rumors right now on who is going to be the new Doctor? I know we still got a year to go before Tennant leaves, but there's gotta be some juicy rumors out.

[humphrey-lee]

I just realized that there's something like, 3 shows I "actively" watch (meaning I go out of my way to see them when they air) and only about five more I buy on DVD when they come out right now. What does that mean? That I've either gotten behind in shows I need to be trying out, or that there's a lot of "good but not great" out there and just a handful of excellent shows to be watched. Looking at how massive my TV on DVD collection is, I'm not so sure this is a bad thing, but it depresses me that the "best" stuff I'm watching right now doesn't hold a candle to the best shows I was watching just three years ago.

[casually-drowned]

I don't have cable or watch TV live, so I am always a day or week behind, depending on when episodes get posted to the Internet. I do miss waking up and watching episodes of Lost over coffee before I start my day, so I guess I am anticipating the return of that.

[cyberauron]

Dr. Who rules. I'm in the first third of season 4. Wonderful wonderful wonderful. The Paul Cornell episodes, particularly in season 3, were really cool.

I added a bunch of the old series to my Netflix Watch Now queue.

Doctor who is a great show from start to finish. Its sci-fi porn. I love the first four seasons.

[georgexjr]

ive never seen an episode of buffy or doctor who. im not ready for the digital revolution either. no cable/dish. ten year old tv. but i serisouly am going to up grade this year. most the stuff i watch i watch on dvd. just bought heroes season 1, arrested developement seaon1, simpsons season 11, and the office season 4. big sale at target.

[optimus187prime]

ive never seen an episode of buffy or doctor who. im not ready for the digital revolution either. no cable/dish. ten year old tv. but i serisouly am going to up grade this year. most the stuff i watch i watch on dvd. just bought heroes season 1, arrested developement seaon1, simpsons season 11, and the office season 4. big sale at target.

The government is offering a $40 coupon for a digital converter, just as an FYI.

[cenquist]

ive never seen an episode of buffy or doctor who. im not ready for the digital revolution either. no cable/dish. ten year old tv. but i serisouly am going to up grade this year. most the stuff i watch i watch on dvd. just bought heroes season 1, arrested developement seaon1, simpsons season 11, and the office season 4. big sale at target.

I am in the same boat as you with the older TV and everything else and mostly I watch all my tv on dvd also. Just wish some shows would actually drop in price and not stay at the 69.99 price tag for 4 or 5 years....

[cyberauron]

Digital TV will make every 5+ year old tv explode with in 6 months, so than we all have to buy hdtv. Its a conspiracy man a conspiracy. :P

[thenextchampion]

Well they annouced the new Doctor Who actor when Tennant leaves. Get ready......Its!!!!...

Matt Smith?....Who the hell is that?

http://thescotsman.scotsman.com/entertainment/Doctor-who-Newcomer-divides-programme39s.4842270.jp

EDIT: Here is a pic of this Matt Smith from imdb.....Guess we're gonna have a gothic Doctor for awhile.

http://www.imdb.com/media/rm1006408960/nm1741002

[paper]

I've seen the video interviews with the guy. He's very enthusiastic and gracious. I like him. I was hoping for some of the name actors that had been mentioned in speculation, but Paul Cornell (he of Dr. Who and Captain Britain) has expressed his satisfaction with the casting, so I'm hopeful.

[cyberauron]

I've seen the video interviews with the guy. He's very enthusiastic and gracious. I like him. I was hoping for some of the name actors that had been mentioned in speculation, but Paul Cornell (he of Dr. Who and Captain Britain) has expressed his satisfaction with the casting, so I'm hopeful.

I wonder if Paul is going to write more doctor who. This new guy looks a little dark and his doctor who stories were a littledark

[paper]

His two-parter in season 3 was my favorite part of that season. Aside from Dugal from Father Ted as a cat-person in an aviator cap, of course! I've decided that any Dr. Who with cat-people is the pinnacle of television.

[cyberauron]

His two-parter in season 3 was my favorite part of that season. Aside from Dugal from Father Ted as a cat-person in an aviator cap, of course! I've decided that any Dr. Who with cat-people is the pinnacle of television.

come to think of it Steve Miffat is taking over and he also wrote dark episodes. So do you know what that means no more friendly catsuits, more weeping angels

[mikegraham6]

I just started watching Aaron Sorkin's Sports Night. It's started a bit slow but it's getting okay nearing the end of the first disc, I enjoyed Studio 60 more though.

But seriously, can anyone explain to me what's up with the annoying laugh track? it's the stupidest thing i've ever heard. Does the studio not realize that this is a drama? Someone gets sexually harrassed by a linebacker in the fifth episode. this show is hardly a sitcom

[conorkilpatrick]

But seriously, can anyone explain to me what's up with the annoying laugh track? it's the stupidest thing i've ever heard. Does the studio not realize that this is a drama? Someone gets sexually harrassed by a linebacker in the fifth episode. this show is hardly a sitcom

Networks are generally afraid that without a laughtrack, people won't laugh. So they forced an artificial laugh track onto SportsNight.

[jaflanagan]

I think that laugh track goes away eventually. Trust me and stick with it. I almost stopped watching it 2 discs in. But you're not wrong that when he did West Wing and Studio 60, Sorkin was a better writer. In my opinion anyway.

[crippler]

Holy POOP
The trailer for next episode of Smallville.

Yes, that would be the Legion-of-Superheroes-penned-by-Geoff Johns episode.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jymq3QrEEjg&eurl=http://www.superherohype.com/news/topnews.php?id=7950&feature=player_embedded

[sarahg42]

Holy POOP
The trailer for next episode of Smallville.

Yes, that would be the Legion-of-Superheroes-penned-by-Geoff Johns episode.



I am so psyched for this episode! :D This season has been pretty damn good all-around!

[bonemachine]

To be honest the only show I watch every week is Lost. Been re-watching the first season which reminded me how good it could be. Know I can suspend a great deal of belief for a story if neccesary and in fact I've been defending the show from, my family who thinks its gone completely off its rocker but the season finale: They fucking move the island? COME ON! I'M MEAN SERIOUSLY? That was the exact moment when that show nuked the fridge for me! It went from sci-fi plausable to just riduclousness! I could handle smoke monsters and the like but this was too much!
Lets just say the writers will have to be fucking masterful in the new season to get themselves out of the hole they're in. I swear to god that was the kinda plot twist I'd expect to see in Doctor Who not Lost!

Speaking of which, I didn't watch the most recent seasoin but I'll give the new guy a chance

[cyberauron]

Holy POOP
The trailer for next episode of Smallville.

Yes, that would be the Legion-of-Superheroes-penned-by-Geoff Johns episode.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jymq3QrEEjg&eurl=http://www.superherohype.com/news/topnews.php?id=7950&feature=player_embedded

holly poop indeed. i think my geekness just exploded

[optimus187prime]

I just watched the first two eps of "The United States of Tara", and it is soo good. I love Tara's 'alters', seems like this could be one of my favorite TV shows in no time. The cast is very charming, Toni Collette makes you believe these 'alters' are totally different people, with her manorisms and accents. I found myself internally cheering when she would switch. Recommended to all of you who want some good laughs.

Seems like Showtime has HBO on the run, no?

[timmywood-]

Can't wait for Lost. I also am rewatching the show from the beginning and I can completely buy everything the show is selling. It's science fiction and I love the world that has been created. If I can believe all the stuff that has happened I can totally buy an island being moved.

[crippler]

We're watching the nightly episodes of LOST on Space. It's so great! Season 4 was such a strong season of television. Especially the way that they played with the medium, telling the story from both ends towards the middle.. wow. So good. The best thing about LOST is all the subtext. I'm not a smart enough man to catch it all. That's why I love reading someone like Doc Jensen from Entertainment Weekly after. LOST is still the smartest show on television and also the one I'm most excited to see every week.

[six-gun]

I review Generation Kill (http://murmur.com/lifestyle/giving_into_generation_kill_.html)

[esophagus]

We're watching the nightly episodes of LOST on Space. It's so great! Season 4 was such a strong season of television. Especially the way that they played with the medium, telling the story from both ends towards the middle.. wow. So good. The best thing about LOST is all the subtext. I'm not a smart enough man to catch it all. That's why I love reading someone like Doc Jensen from Entertainment Weekly after. LOST is still the smartest show on television and also the one I'm most excited to see every week.I picked up the DVDs of season one and two to try my damnedest to catch up in time for season five. They were alright. Not amazing. Until the finale of season two I wasn't even sure I'd bother with number three. I am going to, I just don't think it quite lives up to the hype. Season three and four to come in the next few days.

[cadgers]

I did not realize HIMYM returned tonight and forgot to set my dvr. CBS really needs to get on Hulu.

[thenextchampion]

I picked up the DVDs of season one and two to try my damnedest to catch up in time for season five. They were alright. Not amazing. Until the finale of season two I wasn't even sure I'd bother with number three. I am going to, I just don't think it quite lives up to the hype. Season three and four to come in the next few days.

The first season and the first half of season two of Lost are some of the best television.

But the second half of season two and the majority of season three sucked. I cant explain why, but when we actually got into the life of the Others it bogged the show down. Plus, to me, this is the start of making Jack and Kate really unlikeable. I know they are the main characters but it's really hard to like a woman who A) Never learns B) Never Listens and C) is a bitch. It's also hard to like a man who A) is stubborn and B) wont listen to reason.

But the finale of season three and all of season four brought the series back to the promise land. Trust me when I say that the series takes a left turn in season four for the better. The plots in the fourth season just makes ya wanna watch ever single episode to get every single detail of the episode down.

Please let season five be good, let it answer some questions for god sakes.

[esophagus]

Personally, my biggest problem has been that the supernatural elements feel very forced. Not much would change (from what I've seen) if there were no whispers, or magic healing properties, or floating black fogs. I much prefer to see them work in things like The Others wearing stage make-up and costumes, or the reasoning behind the animals on the island. Maybe if the next couple of seasons give some answers for the supernatural I could really get into it, but they just feel like they're sitting there for no really necessary reason.

[conorkilpatrick]

New from Fox today.

Prison Break - canceled.

Fringe - getting the post American Idol slot (which means it might just become a top ten show)

Dollhouse - Fox claims they are committing to air at least 13 episodes.

[thenextchampion]

New from Fox today.

Prison Break - canceled.

Fringe - getting the post American Idol slot (which means it might just become a top ten show)

Dollhouse - Fox claims they are committing to air at least 13 episodes.

Prison Break: That's really popular from where I am from. Shocked that this is getting cancelled...I assumed it was a very popular show. But seriously; how many times can they break out of prison?

Fringe: Most likely they will be a huge ratings grabber for FOX. Does that mean Fringe and Lost will duke it out?

Dollhouse: Sure....and Chuck Austen did a great job with X-Men

[esophagus]

Call me crazy, but I liked season 3 of Lost better than the first two.

[gungadin]

Call me crazy, but I liked season 3 of Lost better than the first two.

Interesting. Can I ask why? (Not being accusatory. I'm genuinely curious).

[esophagus]

Interesting. Can I ask why? (Not being accusatory. I'm genuinely curious).I can definitely see why a lot of people didn't like season three as much as it kind of ditched a lot of the included elements of the first two seasons and had a lot of character shifts. That said, it had a lot of focus whereas I thought the first two were all over the place. There was a ton of character arcs, the island, the others, the group trying to be rescued, etc. By the third season that had been distilled down and the show had one general direction it was heading in. I appreciated that.

Since posting that (I've been on a Lost spree in order to catch up by Wednesday, and I know I won't have time during the week) I've finished most of season 4 which is even stronger than season 3. It seems to be a steady uphill climb for me. Excited for what 5 will bring.

I should also add that I think the experience of watching four seasons back to back over the span of two weeks is vastly different than watching each one individually. Perhaps the third season didn't play well by itself.

[gungadin]

I can definitely see why a lot of people didn't like season three as much as it kind of ditched a lot of the included elements of the first two seasons and had a lot of character shifts. That said, it had a lot of focus whereas I thought the first two were all over the place. There was a ton of character arcs, the island, the others, the group trying to be rescued, etc. By the third season that had been distilled down and the show had one general direction it was heading in. I appreciated that.

Since posting that (I've been on a Lost spree in order to catch up by Wednesday, and I know I won't have time during the week) I've finished most of season 4 which is even stronger than season 3. It seems to be a steady uphill climb for me. Excited for what 5 will bring.

I should also add that I think the experience of watching four seasons back to back over the span of two weeks is vastly different than watching each one individually. Perhaps the third season didn't play well by itself.

Yeah. I've said for a while that LOST will watch insanely well when it's all one big package and you can just blow through the entire thing. It's a lot of dense things and characters all coming at you. Watching weekly with many breaks is less than ideal.

Looking back, I really didn't like season three because it didn't ever seem to move anywhere. It was very fillery, but I'm sure it'll watch better on DVD. Granted, I haven't seen any of it since it aired... I'm watching the whole thing through once the series is over.

[conorkilpatrick]

Tonight's Fringe should have been titled "Welcome, Millions of American Idol Viewers!"

[miyamotofreak]

Thank god that Prison Break is ending. It should've ending where it was originally intended way back in Season One. Now it's just silly (and beyond 24 silly). I think Fox needs Dollhouse to do well. As long as they give me 13 episodes and don't cancel unless horrendous ratings come up, I'm okay with it. As for Fringe, I haven't even started it.

Lost tomorrow!

[thenextchampion]

Tonight's Fringe should have been titled "Welcome, Millions of American Idol Viewers!"

J.J. Abrams should just come on screen and say:

'I LOVE YOU PEOPLE! Your gonna make this last longer then a season! Give me a hug!!!'

[esophagus]

Thank god that Prison Break is ending. It should've ending where it was originally intended way back in Season One. Now it's just silly (and beyond 24 silly). I think Fox needs Dollhouse to do well. As long as they give me 13 episodes and don't cancel unless horrendous ratings come up, I'm okay with it. As for Fringe, I haven't even started it.

Lost tomorrow!Networks need to be able to come up with great new shows rather than trying to squeeze the viewers out of old shows. I understand the downfalls and expenses of having to do that, but when you have characters breaking INTO prison so that they can break OUT again you have overstayed your welcome on my moving-picture-box.

[timmywood-]

Yeah. I've said for a while that LOST will watch insanely well when it's all one big package and you can just blow through the entire thing. It's a lot of dense things and characters all coming at you. Watching weekly with many breaks is less than ideal.

Looking back, I really didn't like season three because it didn't ever seem to move anywhere. It was very fillery, but I'm sure it'll watch better on DVD. Granted, I haven't seen any of it since it aired... I'm watching the whole thing through once the series is over.

Season three I think is definitely the weakest of the seasons. That finale though is still great.

[optimus187prime]

All the shows I watch that I dont really care about are coming back on. Hells Kitchen, Burn Notice, Wipeout, Rock of Love, I love me some trashy reality TV.

Gobo, a special Superbowl Wipeout is coming woohoo :)

[thenextchampion]

Ugh Hells Kitchen......That's gotta be.....the worst reality show I have ever seen in my life.

It pains me to say it cause I love Gordon Ramsay so much.

[optimus187prime]

Ugh Hells Kitchen......That's gotta be.....the worst reality show I have ever seen in my life.

It pains me to say it cause I love Gordon Ramsay so much.

I just love how he yells at people it makes me happy.

You donkey !!

[thenextchampion]

I just love how he yells at people it makes me happy.

You donkey !!

Well that is funny....but my god, those people he had on last year as contestants. It might've been the most obvious scripted show on television. No wait, the U.S. version of Kitchen Nightmares is that show.

For anyone who is curious about who is Gordon Ramsay. Go watch the UK version of Kitchen Nightmares and The F Word. That is real entertainment right there.

[optimus187prime]

Well that is funny....but my god, those people he had on last year as contestants. It might've been the most obvious scripted show on television. No wait, the U.S. version of Kitchen Nightmares is that show.

For anyone who is curious about who is Gordon Ramsay. Go watch the UK version of Kitchen Nightmares and The F Word. That is real entertainment right there.

Well I have seen UK Kitchen Nightmares but I will have to check out that other one.

[esophagus]

As different and highly edited as the US version of Kitchen Nightmares is from the UK version, I still enjoy it. Less, but I still enjoy it.

[cyberauron]

heres a question. just watched the last two episodes of smallville and cosmic boy said that when chloe dies clark become superman. is that the writers way of telling us that the show will end with chloes death.

[niceguyeddie]

ooh, check it out...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39GGl1YYaVI&fmt=18

[owlboy]

OH HAPPY DAY! THE MIDDLEMAN IS COMING TO DVD! (http://io9.com/5141729/drop-your-linen-etc-the-middleman-finally-coming-to-your-house)

[bonemachine]

The problem with at least the first half of Season 3 of Lost is that watching Kate, Sawyer and Jack in cages was tedious and boring. Even Lindelof admitted it. Plus this was the season that in my opinion really started to push the plausabilty of the show. But the episode with Paulo and Niki was onee of my favourit epsiodes so I'll let it off for that.

[gobo]

OH HAPPY DAY! THE MIDDLEMAN IS COMING TO DVD! (http://io9.com/5141729/drop-your-linen-etc-the-middleman-finally-coming-to-your-house)

WOO! I love that show, I really really hope it comes back

[cadgers]

New episode of Burn Notice on tonight anyone on here digging this show like I am? Love this spy stuff.

[thenextchampion]

Another reference to Red Hulk on tv.....This time on CSI....

I'm starting to think the big shots of Hollywood read Jeph Loeb's Hulk....That would make sense on why it's always a best seller.

[hank41]

Summer Heights High is the awesome.

does anyone know if its coming back anytime soon? how many seasons do they have done in Australia???

[cadgers]

Summer Heights High is the awesome.

does anyone know if its coming back anytime soon? how many seasons do they have done in Australia???

Just looked on wikipedia and read a bit. What is it Australian Freak & Geeks?

[optimus187prime]

Summer Heights High is the awesome.

does anyone know if its coming back anytime soon? how many seasons do they have done in Australia???

That show is awesome. Jonah is by far the best character, if he had his own show I would be delighted.

"Fuck off sir"

[crippler]

I gave Fringe a try again tonight. It was good enough that I just might tune in again next week.

[thenextchampion]

Just saw a Simpsons episode with Alan Moore in it.

I cant explain it but hearing Alan Moore sing 'Little Lulu' is one of the joys of life.

[tomanderson]

About to catch up on Burn Notice on hulu here shortly.

[optimus187prime]

About to catch up on Burn Notice on hulu here shortly.

I need to watch the last seasons finale so I can start the new one.

[six-gun]

Thank god that Prison Break is ending. It should've ending where it was originally intended way back in Season One.

Amen. That's when I stopped watching

[tomanderson]

Amen. That's when I stopped watching

Yeah, they went to prison, what, 3 times over the course of the 4 seasons?

[gobo]

Middleman has officially been cancelled :(

http://www.tv.com/story/12550.html?part=rss&subj=12550&tag=news-summary-12550

[dave-carr]

Top Chef Anyone? Call me crazy, but for the finale, I wanted a five course meal (desert required) and sues chefs Only during prep. But I'm okay with Josiah. Really was pulling for Carla

[cyberauron]

heroes rumor from tmz

hayden aparently wants milo off the show. so that vegs the question if thats true who would they keep

[voodoomama]

Anyone enjoying the US version of Life on Mars? I feel in love with series after catching up on hulu. I used to do the British version on Netflix. This is one of the few British shows that translated well alot of others don't make it when they jump the pond

[cammyknoxville]

Anyone see the South Park premiere? It's like they're begging to be sued now.

Still, I lol'd heartily throughout. :D

[conorkilpatrick]

Anyone enjoying the US version of Life on Mars? I feel in love with series after catching up on hulu. I used to do the British version on Netflix. This is one of the few British shows that translated well alot of others don't make it when they jump the pond

Me. I love it. Sadly, it's been canceled. But ABC is going to allow them to finish up the season and wrap up the story.

[thenextchampion]

Me. I love it. Sadly, it's been canceled. But ABC is going to allow them to finish up the season and wrap up the story.

Eh that was actually a pretty good remake to an already fabulous British show.

I'm gald it's actually getting cancelled though. Cause it makes sense since the original series only lasted about 2 seasons. So it stinks that a show a lot of people like is going out the window, but at least it's going to stay faithful to the series.....even if it's being forced to.

[gobo]

Eh that was actually a pretty good remake to an already fabulous British show.

I'm gald it's actually getting cancelled though. Cause it makes sense since the original series only lasted about 2 seasons. So it stinks that a show a lot of people like is going out the window, but at least it's going to stay faithful to the series.....even if it's being forced to.

That's an odd thing to be happy about. Why produce a new show if you're just going to make it exactly like the old one but with american actors? One of the best things about the US Office is the strong supporting cast which was essentially non-existant in the Brit version.

[thenextchampion]

That's an odd thing to be happy about. Why produce a new show if you're just going to make it exactly like the old one but with american actors? One of the best things about the US Office is the strong supporting cast which was essentially non-existant in the Brit version.

Cause just like The Office

(Which now I know is gonna turn into a 3 page discussion on why I'm wrong just like with Arrested Development)

in the U.S. it's been on for too long. The UK show was perfect because it was short and to the point for the plot and characters. The US Office is on it's....what 4th season? The audience in America for some reason think long series mean great quality programming. When that rarely is the case at all. British television knows how to entertain and keep the audience coming back. Short seasons with almost near perfect quality in every episode. When the audience is waining or the show has outstayed it's welcome, they finish the series and go on to do another one.

The TV industry in America could learn from that.

[gobo]

It hasn't been on too long, it's been strong and getting stronger season by season.

I agree if a show wears out its welcome it should stop, but 13 episodes is not necessarily the perfect length to tell a story.

Neither method is inherently better/worse, just different.

[cadgers]

I always thought British TV had smaller season's because of there low budgets compared to American television.

But I do remember Gervais saying he had an option of doing more season's of The Office but stopped because Fawlty Towers only ran 12 episodes or something to that effect.

[gobo]

6 episode seasons seem to be the norm for most comedies on the BBC.

Fawlty Towers, the Office, Extras, Coupling, Saxondale, Peep Show and others.

I guess Coupling and Peep Show have been going on for "too long" though. 12 episodes is perfect! Anthing more is excessive!

[thenextchampion]

It hasn't been on too long, it's been strong and getting stronger season by season.

I agree if a show wears out its welcome it should stop, but 13 episodes is not necessarily the perfect length to tell a story.

Neither method is inherently better/worse, just different.

13 episodes can be plenty!

The original had only 16 episodes to tell the story. So it's going to be 3 episode shorter then the original....Oh my god it's actually telling the story in less time! We gotta add 3 more filler episodes just so the public can retain interest!

I forgot about Coupling though, that has stayed on for a long time. But then again classic comedies in Britain have stayed out their welcome. Monty Python had a whole season (or 6 episodes...that's right their 4th season had only 6 episodes) without John Cleese and that is considered their worst season. So even long running shows have outstayed their welcome sometimes in Britain.

[gobo]

"Can be" and "Should be" are very very different things.

Also I'm a fan of what most people call "filler" episodes, those quiet episodes that are just about the characters or tell a fun side story but don't move forward the main plot are generally my favourite episodes of a series.

[conorkilpatrick]

Also I'm a fan of what most people call "filler" episodes, those quiet episodes that are just about the characters or tell a fun side story but don't move forward the main plot are generally my favourite episodes of a series.

Those are the best parts of any story.

[thenextchampion]

Name me a British show that wasnt good because it didnt focus on filler episodes. Name me one.

[conorkilpatrick]

Name me a British show that wasnt good because it didnt focus on filler episodes. Name me one.

No one has made such a contention.

[thenextchampion]

No one has made such a contention.

So you cant name me one?

Cause apparently you and gobo think the best episodes of a tv show are 'filler'. Well then you must hate UK shows cause they dont do filler episodes the majority of the time.

[gobo]

So you cant name me one?

Cause apparently you and gobo think the best episodes of a tv show are 'filler'. Well then you must hate UK shows cause they dont do filler episodes the majority of the time.

I think you probably need to take more logic classes.

Enjoying "filler" episodes doesn't mean that I can't like or even love shows without "filler".

[thenextchampion]

I think you probably need to take more logic classes.

Enjoying "filler" episodes doesn't mean that I can't like or even love shows without "filler".

Ah forget it.

Everytime we get into a discussion, I'm in the fault or in the wrong...
So why argue with you two? It's impossible.

[tomanderson]

Trailer for Harper's Island:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_MkhHySq-w


looks awesome, I like the setting too-- secluded island and a bunch of people getting picked off one by one by a killer. What's not to like?

[Megnolia]

Is anyone watching Trust Me on TNT? I liked the first episode, didn't like the second and since then they've been piliing up on my DVR. Any opinions or should I just delete away?

[gobo]

I really like it but I'm an enormous Tom Cavanagh fan

[voodoomama]

Me. I love it. Sadly, it's been canceled. But ABC is going to allow them to finish up the season and wrap up the story.

damn oh well there is always the sequel ashes to ashes on the BBC

[Megnolia]

I really like it but I'm an enormous Tom Cavanagh fan

Thanks, Gobo! I'll give it another try.

[dignan17]

Not sure if anyone here watches Chuck (it's not the greatest show on TV but it's a guilty pleasure of mine, and Yvonne Strahovsky is easy on the eyes). At the end of tonight's episode, Chuck is on his bed and he's reading Ex Machina #39 (well, he's pretending to read it while reading secret documents, but whatever).

Kinda neat. Not as neat as a Spanish copy of Y the Last Man on Lost, but it's nice to see BKV get some exposure on TV :) They had a pretty close-up shot of the cover, too, which impressed me. They could have done a lame mock-up of a fake comic book, or something more recognizable to the average viewer, but they didn't.

[cadgers]

Not sure if anyone here watches Chuck (it's not the greatest show on TV but it's a guilty pleasure of mine, and Yvonne Strahovsky is easy on the eyes). At the end of tonight's episode, Chuck is on his bed and he's reading Ex Machina #39 (well, he's pretending to read it while reading secret documents, but whatever).

Kinda neat. Not as neat as a Spanish copy of Y the Last Man on Lost, but it's nice to see BKV get some exposure on TV :) They had a pretty close-up shot of the cover, too, which impressed me. They could have done a lame mock-up of a fake comic book, or something more recognizable to the average viewer, but they didn't.


Chuck also has a Y the Last Man poster on his wall and there's a scene with Awesome reading an issue of it.

[naveenm]

Anybody watch "Eastbound and Down" on HBO? Man, Danny McBride is hilarious! I think with that and "Flight of the Conchords", HBO has the two funniest shows on television right now outside of "30 Rock".

[optimus187prime]

Anybody watch "Eastbound and Down" on HBO? Man, Danny McBride is hilarious! I think with that and "Flight of the Conchords", HBO has the two funniest shows on television right now outside of "30 Rock".

Eastbound is indeed hilarious. I just wish we could of gotten more eps in the first season.

Truthfully I did not care for FotC season 2 outside of 2-3 eps. It was really a let down. It seems like the dialogue and situations were funnier, but the songs were less enjoyable. Maybe it was just me but I think it was a step down from season 1.

[gobo]

Not really surprising, they didn't even really want to do a second season for just that reason.

They've had years to play and perfect the songs used in the first season and only 1 year to write all new material for the second

[optimus187prime]

They've had years to play and perfect the songs used in the first season and only 1 year to write all new material for the second

I understand the reasoning, it is the exact definition of a Sophmore Slump. Didnt make it any less dissappointing though.

The second album syndrome: A band may craft their first album over a period of years by writing dozens of songs, trying them out before audiences, and choosing the ten most crowd-pleasing songs to record once they get a contract; once this album is successful, however, the record company will demand that the next album be completed in about a year, giving little opportunity to play the material for an audience—and the band may record songs that wouldn't have made the cut for their first album. Alternatively, bands committed to the integrity of their work may take many years to complete the second album, losing fans in the interim.

[conorkilpatrick]

As a television show, I thought that Flight of the Conchords season two blew away season one. Much funnier with better stories. In season one, the stories served the songs. In season two it was the other way around.

[naveenm]

In season one, the stories served the songs. In season two it was the other way around.

Never really thought of it that way, but it makes sense all things considered. They really were crafting stories around their songs the first time around, and were free from having to do that in Season 2 -- although I think all the criticism about the rushed songwriting is spot on. The songs were goood; but not great.

[optimus187prime]

As a television show, I thought that Flight of the Conchords season two blew away season one. Much funnier with better stories. In season one, the stories served the songs. In season two it was the other way around.

In season two there was still as much emphasis on the songs though. I agree and even said that the actual dialogue and situations were funnier, its just with so many of those songs just serving as musical interludes it got tiring. It made me dread when they broke out into a musical number.

[Infinity_Man]

Will I like Eastbound & Down even if I hate baseball?
I did like Arli$$ back in the day, even though I cannot stand sports for the most part.
Is the humor based in the Baseball world or is it more general?

[Infinity_Man]

Is anyone watching Trust Me on TNT? I liked the first episode, didn't like the second and since then they've been piliing up on my DVR. Any opinions or should I just delete away?

That is the one with Will & Ed right?

The advertising guys?

I watched the first two episodes with my gf, and it was ok, but nothing special.


The main show I am missing from upper cable channels is The Riches.

God I loved that show.

[gobo]

Just finished up season 1 of United States of Tara. Ended up REALLY strong. I'm glad I stuck with it past the rocky first episode

[cadgers]

Will I like Eastbound & Down even if I hate baseball?
I did like Arli$$ back in the day, even though I cannot stand sports for the most part.
Is the humor based in the Baseball world or is it more general?

It really has nothing to do with baseball. It's mainly just used as a back drop. It has a lot of Office (UK) and Curb Your Enthusiasm like comedy.

[gobo]

The main show I am missing from upper cable channels is The Riches.

God I loved that show.
Yeah I was super bummed when that was cancelled.

Huff is my biggest cancellation upset though.

[filipsablik]

Anyone been watching "Kings"?
I don't know why really but I've been really enjoying the alternate reality operatic quality of the series. The visuals are great too.

[gobo]

The visuals are indeed amazing, as is Ian McShane, but I'm only liking the show, not loving it. I doubt it's long for this world either

[thenextchampion]

My review of the recently released 'Venture Bros. vol. 3' DVD! Also I guess....a bit of a review of the series itself.

http://thenextchampion.xanga.com/697348843/the-venture-bros-in-the-case-of-the-season-three-dvd/

[naveenm]

Will I like Eastbound & Down even if I hate baseball?
I did like Arli$$ back in the day, even though I cannot stand sports for the most part.

Can't stand sports?!

Anyway, the show makes fun of a certain type of self-obsesses athlete, even if you pay vague attention to sports you probably know the type all too well and will probably find it funny. That's not all the show is about. Anyway, give it a try, it can't hurt.

[optimus187prime]

Will I like Eastbound & Down even if I hate baseball?
I did like Arli$$ back in the day, even though I cannot stand sports for the most part.
Is the humor based in the Baseball world or is it more general?

No baseball knowledge required. I in fact hate all non combat sports and find Eastbound hilarious.

[optimus187prime]

Just finished up season 1 of United States of Tara. Ended up REALLY strong. I'm glad I stuck with it past the rocky first episode

That is now one of my favorite shows, it is hilarious and heartwarming.

[thenextchampion]

Sad news in the TV industry. Actor Andy Hallett, fame from TV's 'Angel'. Has died of heart failure. Just to make sure everyone knows who that is, he played the character named Lorne:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/cult/buffy/angel/images/340/s4_lorne3.jpg

This is such sad news. He was a great actor and his character on Angel was outstanding. He will be missed.

[dave-carr]

Watching The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson and Shatner pimped Free Comic Book Day on his guest spot. He has 4 "lines" coming out. Didn't say which publisher but still awesome. Gave the date, told everyone to go to their shops on May 3rd etc!

[conorkilpatrick]

Awesome.

'Friday Night' gets two-season pickup (http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118001878.html?categoryid=14&cs=1)

"Friday Night Lights" fans were handed the equivalent of a Super Bowl victory on Monday as NBC and DirecTV confirmed that the ensembler has been renewed for two seasons.

The new pact covers the show's fourth and fifth seasons, which will consist of 13 segs apiece. It continues the innovative partnership between the Peacock and the satcaster that saved "FNL" from cancellation this season, the third for the Peabody-winning series revolving around a high school football team in a small Texas town. Series, shot in Austin, Texas, hails from Brian Grazer's Imagine TV, Peter Berg's Film 44 shingle and Universal Media Studios.

DirecTV will get the first window on the episodes, to run commercial-free as the marquee property on its 101 Network channel, which is rapidly adding new and library product with appeal to TV aficionados from Hollywood's majors (Daily Variety, March 23). This season, DirecTV ran the 13 episodes comprising "FNL's" third season in the fall, while NBC's run began in January.

More in link.

[gabeja]

I love friday night lights. Anyone else?

[niceguyeddie]

I love friday night lights. Anyone else?

friday night lights is a great show.
I hear it got green lit for another two seasons.
I'm watching it on dvd. I just can't catch it on tv.

[naveenm]

Has anybody watched "In Treatment"? I've caught bits here and there, but it never grabbed me...now with all the promos HBO is running for the upcoming season, I'm wondering if maybe it's a show that grows on you.

[gobo]

I loved the first season and I'm super excited for the next.

It's really a slow burn though, the first few episodes didn't grab me but I'm really really happy I stayed with it.

[naveenm]

Watched a few episodes of 'In Treatment'. Pretty frackin' intense! After "My Dinner With Andre" I thought I could never again sit and watch people just sit in a room and talk.

Then again, it probably helps that episodes are around 25 minutes long...

Regardless, I'm in!

[conorkilpatrick]

Watched a few episodes of 'In Treatment'. Pretty frackin' intense! After "My Dinner With Andre" I thought I could never again sit and watch people just sit in a room and talk.

Then again, it probably helps that episodes are around 25 minutes long...

Regardless, I'm in!

Did you watch the first season? It was incredible! It was the closest thing to a play on TV done really really well. Gabriel Byrne totally deserved that Golden Globe he won.

The second season episodes have been really good so far too, though it looks like they are branching out a bit from the one/two set framework of the first season.

[naveenm]

Did you watch the first season? It was incredible!

No, but I'm definitely gonna Netflix it now. Somehow, I always get into these HBO shows a couple of seasons in. Sopranos, Entourage, Six Feet Under...I got into all of them after their first season. Maybe it just shows how "buzz" affected I am.

Speaking of Entourage, I thought this was cool and kinda weird at the same time: http://news.yahoo.com/s/politico/20090408/pl_politico/21010. Arranging his schedule around the show? Wow.

[dave-carr]

I have rapidly become a fan of Better of Ted and Life. Anyone else?

[esophagus]

I love Life. Haven't got around to Better off Ted yet.

[theweatherman]

Of the 2 cop shows that have premiered in the past 24 hours, The Unusuals wins over Southland IMO.

Love the irreverence of Unusuals. Southland a bit too cliched.

Anybody else catch these?

[dave-carr]

I haven't checked out The Unusuals but Southland was subpar. It felt oddly paced and the blwwping of the cuses pissed me the hell off. If your sereis gets picked up by a basic cable station, Somone should know the forbidden words.

Using "fuck" insteead of "screw" or "do" makes no sense. Fuck gets bleeped and ;m taken out of the story. Know the rules before you play the game.

[conorkilpatrick]

I haven't checked out The Unusuals but Southland was subpar. It felt oddly paced and the blwwping of the cuses pissed me the hell off. If your sereis gets picked up by a basic cable station, Somone should know the forbidden words.

Using "fuck" insteead of "screw" or "do" makes no sense. Fuck gets bleeped and ;m taken out of the story. Know the rules before you play the game.

The show was made by John Wells, so he certainly knows the rules. The show was made specifically for NBC. I didn't see the show, but it sounds like to me that that was a stylistic choice.

[comicbookchris]

Did anyone see that new show on NBC called Parks & Recreation? I forgot to DVR it last night so I don't know how it was. I'm hoping its on par with the Office.

[conorkilpatrick]

Did anyone see that new show on NBC called Parks & Recreation? I forgot to DVR it last night so I don't know how it was. I'm hoping its on par with the Office.

Overall, t was okay, I thought. Some very funny parts, and some okay parts. But it was a first episode, and sometimes it's hard to judge. Hell, the entire first season of The Office (US) was not all that good.

[dave-carr]

The show was made by John Wells, so he certainly knows the rules. The show was made specifically for NBC. I didn't see the show, but it sounds like to me that that was a stylistic choice.

I'll grant you that, but if it was a stylystic choice, I thought it was a poor one indeed. It distracted me from connecting with the characters. Using "realistic" language only works if said language is heard in its uncensored state. I'll be interested to hear what you think if/when you watch it

[comicbookchris]

Hell, the entire first season of The Office (US) was not all that good.

I'll agree with ya there, it wasn't until the second season that The US Office that it really got its own identity. Until then it seemed like they were trying to imitate the humor from the British Office.

[esophagus]

Overall, t was okay, I thought. Some very funny parts, and some okay parts. But it was a first episode, and sometimes it's hard to judge. Hell, the entire first season of The Office (US) was not all that good.It felt very Office 2.0. I enjoyed it but the concept wasn't different enough for me to love it.

I love the cast though, so I'm hoping it gets better with time.

[theweatherman]

I love the cast though, so I'm hoping it gets better with time.
Agreed. Good ensemble. Enjoyed the "boss" character with his shotgun and Bobby Knight poster. Will definitely give it a few eps.

And for those who did not catch The Unusuals, give it a shot next week. Not only does it have whimsy and laughs but also its fair share of flawed characters. It reminds a bit of M*A*S*H, but with detectives.

[paper]

The show was made by John Wells, so he certainly knows the rules. The show was made specifically for NBC. I didn't see the show, but it sounds like to me that that was a stylistic choice.

Having watched it, I agree with this.

The bleeps didn't bother me. I prefer them to using unrealistically soft word substitutes.

Interested in your thoughts if you try it out, Conor. It's Hill Street Blues done in the style of Friday Night Lights. Didn't love it, but I enjoyed it and think it has potential.

[conorkilpatrick]

Having watched it, I agree with this.

The bleeps didn't bother me. I prefer them to using unrealistically soft word substitutes.

Yeah, me too - I always prefer bleeps to characters who should be cursing not cursing.

Interested in your thoughts if you try it out, Conor. It's Hill Street Blues done in the style of Friday Night Lights. Didn't love it, but I enjoyed it and think it has potential.

Eh, I dunno - I didn't see anything compelling in any of the (many, many) commercials and beyond ER I haven't really been a fan of any other John Wells shows.

[paper]

I'll let you know if it transitions from decent TV to must-see TV.

The Unusuals and Southland serve as shows that I will continue to watch because they air after shows I'm already watching.

[dave-carr]

Yeah, me too - I always prefer bleeps to characters who should be cursing not cursing.

Maybe it was the frequency that made it more jarring for me. Or the fact that I've seen cop shows done well (Homicide, Hill Street, ettc) that still were effective without. Though I grant you both that cursing would be omnipresent as a beat cop.

The ending was strong enough for me to stick around.

[oh_caroline]

Having watched it, I agree with this.
Interested in your thoughts if you try it out, Conor. It's Hill Street Blues done in the style of Friday Night Lights. Didn't love it, but I enjoyed it and think it has potential.


Oh, I like that description a lot. I thought it was just okay until the last act, but then they made a few moves that surprised me -- not so much plot twists (though there's a potential one that might be interesting) as stylistic choices. I might have to watch it again with the Friday Night Lights comparison in mind.

I'm with Dave in that I don't particularly like the bleeps, though I did learn things about what you can say and not say. "Asshole" is okay, but "tits" isn't?

ETA: Come to think of it, I think 'Homicide' occasionally cut away from a person who obviously was cursing, as an alternative to bleeping. That worked in the style of that show, which was using jump cuts all the time anyway, but I can see it wouldn't always.

[paper]

"Pussy" as an insult is also okay (not bleeped). I wonder if that's true in an anatomical context.

[optimus187prime]

"Pussy" as an insult is also okay (not bleeped). I wonder if that's true in an anatomical context.

No its bleeped in that context.

[oh_caroline]

"Pussy" as an insult is also okay (not bleeped). I wonder if that's true in an anatomical context.

You know, these 'in this context but not in that' things usually baffle me, but for some reason I hear pussy (wimp) as pretty tame but pussy (anatomy) as really dirty.

I recall there recently was an FCC ruling on this jesuitical question though. Our tax dollars at work.

And is it just me or was NYPD Blue actually allowed to say more of these words without bleeps? Is that a network thing or an "FCC getting crazier" thing?

[dave-carr]

You know, these 'in this context but not in that' things usually baffle me, but for some reason I hear pussy (wimp) as pretty tame but pussy (anatomy) as really dirty.

I recall there recently was an FCC ruling on this jesuitical question though. Our tax dollars at work.

And is it just me or was NYPD Blue actually allowed to say more of these words without bleeps? Is that a network thing or an "FCC getting crazier" thing?

I don't thibk we can underestimate the power of Janet Jackson's nipple (and the merriment with which the FCC now censors)

[sandlapper]

I just came in to say can I get a Hell Yeah that Eastbound and Down got picked up for a second season!

[optimus187prime]

I just came in to say can I get a Hell Yeah that Eastbound and Down got picked up for a second season!

Hell yeah, Danny McBride has been hilarious in almost everything I have seen him in.

[optimus187prime]

Anyone hear about this new WWII mini series "The Pacific" scheduled to air this year on HBO. I loved Band of Brothers so I am really excited for this, I hope HBO can get a good stable of shows back together soon. Since Six Feet Under, The Sopranos, The Wire, and Deadwood ended Sunday nights havent been the same.

Plot:A 10-part mini-series from the creators of "Band of Brothers" telling the intertwined stories of three Marines during America's battle with the Japanese in the Pacific during World War II.
IMDB (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0374463/)

[niceguyeddie]

Anyone hear about this new WWII mini series "The Pacific" scheduled to air this year on HBO. I loved Band of Brothers so I am really excited for this, I hope HBO can get a good stable of shows back together soon. Since Six Feet Under, The Sopranos, The Wire, and Deadwood ended Sunday nights havent been the same.

Plot:A 10-part mini-series from the creators of "Band of Brothers" telling the intertwined stories of three Marines during America's battle with the Japanese in the Pacific during World War II.
IMDB (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0374463/)

I heard about it.
Is it finally being shown this year. It feels like I've been waiting forever.
Can't wait.

[thenextchampion]

The Unusuals......best new show of the year? I think so. Laughed all night while watching it today.

[crippler]

The Unusuals was quite good. I'll be sticking around next week after LOST to catch the next episode.

Does anyone here watch Terminator - The Sarah Connor Chronicles? Pretty wild final few episodes. I really hope that they bring the show back. The unmarked graves bookending the episode from two weeks ago was awesome. I just wish they had the budget to reallly let Cameron bust the place up last week.

[jaflanagan]

Anyone hear about this new WWII mini series "The Pacific" scheduled to air this year on HBO. I loved Band of Brothers so I am really excited for this, I hope HBO can get a good stable of shows back together soon. Since Six Feet Under, The Sopranos, The Wire, and Deadwood ended Sunday nights havent been the same.

Plot:A 10-part mini-series from the creators of "Band of Brothers" telling the intertwined stories of three Marines during America's battle with the Japanese in the Pacific during World War II.
IMDB (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0374463/)

Heard of it? I'm in the process of starting a religion based on it.

[paper]

Been rewatching Carnivale lately. TV doesn't get much better.

[sullivan85]

The Unusuals was quite good. I'll be sticking around next week after LOST to catch the next episode.

Does anyone here watch Terminator - The Sarah Connor Chronicles? Pretty wild final few episodes. I really hope that they bring the show back. The unmarked graves bookending the episode from two weeks ago was awesome. I just wish they had the budget to reallly let Cameron bust the place up last week.

I dug the Unusual's as well. I think I either like my cop shows realistic (Shield, Wire) or more whimisical like this. The middle ground has been overdone and I can't stand it (Without a trace, Cold Case, etc...).

I love TSCC but I've afraid it's going away. Not enough people watching! I nearly shat myself with what happened to Derek (and how it was done).

[optimus187prime]

Been rewatching Carnivale lately. TV doesn't get much better.

I LOVED that series. The ending left me wanting but I guess thats what all good TV does.

[esophagus]

The Inbetweeners is possibly the best representation I've seen of my high school experience. Very funny.

[crippler]

I dug the Unusual's as well. I think I either like my cop shows realistic (Shield, Wire) or more whimisical like this. The middle ground has been overdone and I can't stand it (Without a trace, Cold Case, etc...).

I love TSCC but I've afraid it's going away. Not enough people watching! I nearly shat myself with what happened to Derek (and how it was done).


I find it very strange. It's aimed right at the demographic that you'd find on a site such as this and yet it clearly seems to be missing wildly. I don't know why. I loved the transformation of John Connor this year.

[neb]

Did anybody catch The Big Bang Theory tonight? They had a great comic book centric episode, and it was very funny. It was also surprisingly up to date and accurate. Good stuff.

[conorkilpatrick]

Did anybody catch The Big Bang Theory tonight? They had a great comic book centric episode, and it was very funny. It was also surprisingly up to date and accurate. Good stuff.

Was it less offensive than the promo for the episode? Because that made me want to shoot my TV.

[dave-carr]

Was it less offensive than the promo for the episode? Because that made me want to shoot my TV.


Nope. Apparently, guys into comic books would rather discuss who will succeed Bruce Wayne than have sex.

Also, those into physics can't pick up women in bars.

I was offended

[thenextchampion]

That's a whole thread in itself isnt it?

Offensive sterotypes of comic book fans in the media.

[neb]

Was it less offensive than the promo for the episode? Because that made me want to shoot my TV.

I wasn't overly offended by the show. I mean, the crux of the show is that the guys are giant nerds who are terrible with women. The show featured a storyline where Penny meets a guy at the comic shop, goes out on a date with him, and wants to sleep with him. The problem is that Sheldon interrupts the "Do you want some coffee?" conversation with a Batman debate.

I think part of the show is that Sheldon is so obsessive that he pretty much ruins any and everything.

[neb]

Also, those into physics can't pick up women in bars.

I was offended

This didn't bother me. The reason that they can't pick up women is because Walowitz is creepy and Leonard is shy. They could be firefighters and still not get women. That's the point.

And don't forget, Kumarpali scored in the episode, and he's the worst when it comes to women.

[sullivan85]

I find it very strange. It's aimed right at the demographic that you'd find on a site such as this and yet it clearly seems to be missing wildly. I don't know why. I loved the transformation of John Connor this year.

Me too! Well, really what I liked is they FINALLY got John to the point where he wasn't acting like a bratty teenager and was starting to act like the intelligent John Connor we keep hearing exists in the future. Oh, they finally allowed him to fire a gun.

[esophagus]

Nope. Apparently, guys into comic books would rather discuss who will succeed Bruce Wayne than have sex.

Also, those into physics can't pick up women in bars.

I was offended
This is why I don't watch this show. The same people that say "Hey look, the characters are like me" are the people who are okay with these wildly offbase geek stereotypes.

[neb]

This is why I don't watch this show. The same people that say "Hey look, the characters are like me" are the people who are okay with these wildly offbase geek stereotypes.

I guess I'm just not bothered by the stereotypes that are in the show. I think the writers use them to great comedic affect, and take time to really show that these are more than just geeks. Besides, I think by looking at the extremes, viewers are able to identify with the geek within themselves.

It's one of the few shows I watch regularly and laugh out loud at.

[paper]

My dad's a big fan of the show. We routinely talk about the comic book references. I don't so much mind the offenses. I think the people who take the show as documentary and assume that all geeks are like this don't have the capacity to understand anyway. I can understand being upset, but I find the show more amusing than not. I like the things I like, but I don't mind poking fun at things either. The geeks on the show are exaggerated, but some of the things they get hung up on feel all too familiar. And I think it's healthy to have that kind of perspective sometimes. You have to be able to laugh at yourself, even if it involves caricature.

[dave-carr]

My dad's a big fan of the show. We routinely talk about the comic book references. I don't so much mind the offenses. I think the people who take the show as documentary and assume that all geeks are like this don't have the capacity to understand anyway. I can understand being upset, but I find the show more amusing than not. I like the things I like, but I don't mind poking fun at things either. The geeks on the show are exaggerated, but some of the things they get hung up on feel all too familiar. And I think it's healthy to have that kind of perspective sometimes. You have to be able to laugh at yourself, even if it involves caricature.

The problem I have is that the show hasn't given us one well adjusted geek yet. I had hopes for Comic Artist retailer dude, but it was shattered, I will grant that Leonard is closest to the norm, but even he lacks chutzpah.

My dad was fairly impressed I could name the comics framed in the background shots, (Fear Agent, et al) and the Constantine trade

Caricature only works if a norm is established or is at least recognizable.
Generally, I agree with your sentiments, Paper.

[conorkilpatrick]

We know its caricature, but 99% of the general public does not because they are constantly fed the caricature. It's one of the reasons I get such funny looks when I tell people what I do for a living.

I push back hard against those that tear me down.

[neb]

It's one of the reasons I get such funny looks when I tell people what I do for a living.

I push back hard against those that tear me down.

You get weird looks for telling people you're one third of a multimedia empire? How the world has changed.... :)

[neb]

This may be looking too deeply at the show, but I feel like Penny has always sort of represented the general public and their perception of geeks/nerds. As the show has progressed, I feel like her perception of them has changed over time. There was an episode a few weeks back where she beat ass because someone was mistreating the boys. Hopefully, people are picking up on that.

[thenextchampion]

Just watched two new Discovery channel shows:

Doing DaVinci which is a show about a couple of guys building schematics the famous Leonardo DaVinci made so many years ago. First up was his infamous Tank design; where it had a circular dome and had cannons all around it. This is an interesting idea for a show and I like where this could go. DaVinci did so many blueprints it's amazing to see if his ideas were actually sound in those days. Although I must say; this is heavily scripted and waay too cornball at times. They got some guy on here who looks like an 'American Chopper' reject. But still, I'll take that with a grain of salt and enjoy the process of making these wonders.

Pitchmen, or the greatest show ever.....cause Billy Mayes is co-host. Basically it's like American Inventor, but focuses more on how a product can be advertised. I didnt realize how hard it was to make these cheezy infomericals. But it's an interesting look on how two informerical icons make products popular. Highly recommend this.

[optimus187prime]

Pitchmen, or the greatest show ever.....cause Billy Mayes is co-host. Basically it's like American Inventor, but focuses more on how a product can be advertised. I didnt realize how hard it was to make these cheezy infomericals. But it's an interesting look on how two informerical icons make products popular. Highly recommend this.

I really wanted to check that show out. That is a world I know nothing about.

[esophagus]

I followed Buffy while it was on originally but missed the first few seasons. Trying to go through them now and season one is a pain in the ass. Feels somewhat dated and pretty slow. Its alright because I know how much better things get, but I haven't loved the first few episodes.

In unrelated news, United States of Tara and Better off Ted are two of my new favorite shows. I think I like Better off Ted better than Pushing Daisies, not that the two had much in common other than network.

[neb]

I just finished the first season of Mad Men. I'm not sure how I feel about the show. I'm not a big drama guy, but I found the show to be smart, well written, and brilliantly acted. It's just that a few of the episodes didn't really grab me and there were scenes in others that just kind of bothered me.

I'm pretty sure I'll still get season 2 when it comes out. Even though my fiance and I didn't really love the show, we haven't stopped talking about the ending of the season since we finished it. Like I said, there's definitely some interesting character stuff going on.

Next up: Burn Notice, Season 1

[esophagus]

I can't profess my love of Mad Men enough. Or Breaking Bad, the other AMC show, for that matter.

[thenextchampion]

I dont mean to steer the conversation back into that Big Bang Theory/bad look onto comic book nerds thingy but....

Just saw a bunch of commercials for the show. Oh my god that is incredibly offensive to all comic book nerds or other variations of nerds (pardon the term).

[niceguyeddie]

ordered Homicide: Life on the Street the megaset.
I watched the first season through netflix and it was awesome.
for some reason I just got the urge to make the big purchase.

[gobo]

Just throwing in my vote in the "Don't find BBT offensive" camp. I don't really care if morons believe that BBT is an accurate portrayal of nerds. TV isn't supposed to be documentary anyway, and I have met people almost exactly like all 4 of those people.

[optimus187prime]

Just throwing in my vote in the "Don't find BBT offensive" camp. I don't really care if morons believe that BBT is an accurate portrayal of nerds. TV isn't supposed to be documentary anyway, and I have met people almost exactly like all 4 of those people.

I dont care really either. Every single character on sitcom television is usually exaggerated. If it was a sports guy he would be a muscle bound meathead, or if he is really handsome he is oblivious. Its just satire.

[gobo]

Exactly.

I mean none of those stereotypes are "good", it's made people think that athletes and fratboys are all asshole meatheads (admittedly some are) which is just as bad as people thinking nerds are all like the people from BBT (which again, some definitely are).

Lots of comedy is all about exaggerating flaws and quirks to absurd levels, there's no good reason to get offended every time that happens. Getting offended by BBT and not every frat movie, flamboyant portrayals of gay guys, athletes as meatheads, etc... is just hypocritical.

Best to just not get offended by any non-malicious stereotypes, especially when used for comedy.

[oh_caroline]

I just finished the first season of Mad Men. I'm not sure how I feel about the show. I'm not a big drama guy, but I found the show to be smart, well written, and brilliantly acted. It's just that a few of the episodes didn't really grab me and there were scenes in others that just kind of bothered me.

I'm pretty sure I'll still get season 2 when it comes out. Even though my fiance and I didn't really love the show, we haven't stopped talking about the ending of the season since we finished it. Like I said, there's definitely some interesting character stuff going on.

Next up: Burn Notice, Season 1

I felt similar about 'Mad Men' after season 1 -- I could tell it was great TV but I wasn't sure how I felt about it personally. I'd definitely say stick around for season 2. I'm not sure it's 'better' because they're both great, but as the show goes on all the things that have been set up start to fall into place. Great, great TV.

[oh_caroline]

ordered Homicide: Life on the Street the megaset.
I watched the first season through netflix and it was awesome.
for some reason I just got the urge to make the big purchase.


I was just thinking of H:LotS because of watching the first couple episodes of 'Southland' -- which has a lot of similar story elements but feels very different.
Paper said at one point that 'Southland' feels like Hill Street Blues via Friday Night Lights, which is a good assessment. Very naturalistic kind of storytelling that lets the audience find the stories and characters that are important.

The first couple seasons of 'Homicide' on the other hand are 'Hill Street Blues' via 'Glengarry Glen Ross.' Definitely realism but a sort of determined, staged realism. Like in Mamet, you're not supposed to believe people literally talk like this all the time but it still feels real, on a deeper level. Or something.

Anyway, 'Homicide' is *my show* so I could go on about it for a while. I'd be interested in how watching it all in a row or big chunks would go, because there are a few major stylistic shifts as you go on. Not necessarily for the worse, but with each major change it becomes a little less unique. I don't think they could have sustained the style of the first couple seasons on a network drama at that time, though (or ever) so it might be for the best.

[paper]

Mad Men is perfect and my favorite thing on television since West Wing.

That is all.

[niceguyeddie]

I was just thinking of H:LotS because of watching the first couple episodes of 'Southland' -- which has a lot of similar story elements but feels very different.
Paper said at one point that 'Southland' feels like Hill Street Blues via Friday Night Lights, which is a good assessment. Very naturalistic kind of storytelling that lets the audience find the stories and characters that are important.

The first couple seasons of 'Homicide' on the other hand are 'Hill Street Blues' via 'Glengarry Glen Ross.' Definitely realism but a sort of determined, staged realism. Like in Mamet, you're not supposed to believe people literally talk like this all the time but it still feels real, on a deeper level. Or something.

Anyway, 'Homicide' is *my show* so I could go on about it for a while. I'd be interested in how watching it all in a row or big chunks would go, because there are a few major stylistic shifts as you go on. Not necessarily for the worse, but with each major change it becomes a little less unique. I don't think they could have sustained the style of the first couple seasons on a network drama at that time, though (or ever) so it might be for the best.

Is Southland that newish show?
would you reccomend it then? I might just check the show out online.
I got that little dvr-like box Roku. I think it's on there somewhere.
Roku's pretty sweet. I can watch some of the movies I have on netflix on my tv and I can rent/buy movies from amazon and watch them through that too.
it's pretty sweet.

[oh_caroline]

Is Southland that newish show?
would you reccomend it then? I might just check the show out online.
I got that little dvr-like box Roku. I think it's on there somewhere.
Roku's pretty sweet. I can watch some of the movies I have on netflix on my tv and I can rent/buy movies from amazon and watch them through that too.
it's pretty sweet.

Southland is the show that took over ER's spot on Thursdays on NBC -- Dave and Paper and I discussed it a little upthread. You probably can get it on Roku, but I know it's on Hulu as well. Shouldn't be hard to find.

I haven't made up my mind about it yet, which is why I was making the comparison to 'Homicide.' H. had a very clear thesis from episode 1 -- you could see what it was about traditional cop shows that they wanted to emulate, and also what they wanted to avoid. 'Southland' I'm much less clear on. There have been so many cop shows over the years, I'm still up in the air about whether I want/need a new one.

[thenextchampion]

So The Unusuals is now airing on Tuesdays?.....AND Wednesdays?

*clenches teeth* That probably means it's gonna get cancelled.....*




*I mean that its usually a sign of desperation on the network to get more viewers.

[comicbookchris]

Just started watching my Oz dvd's again from the beginning, and I'm reminded why this is one of the best shows ever. Several storylines that always keep you hooked and shocked, great actors portraying the prisoners (especially J.K. Simmons as Schillinger, he's the best!) and the feeling that while watching you never know what's next. I like the fact that none of the characters are safe from anything, even the main characters. Check out the first episode of the first season to see what I mean.

[cadgers]

Just started watching my Oz dvd's again from the beginning, and I'm reminded why this is one of the best shows ever. Several storylines that always keep you hooked and shocked, great actors portraying the prisoners (especially J.K. Simmons as Schillinger, he's the best!) and the feeling that while watching you never know what's next. I like the fact that none of the characters are safe from anything, even the main characters. Check out the first episode of the first season to see what I mean.

I've been meaning to watch Oz for the longest time. Right now I'm going through Deadwood and Carnivàle but once I'm done with those I'm hoping I can find the DVDs for cheap.

[gobo]

Oz was absolutely amazing

[neb]

I just started watching Burn Notice, and it's pretty fantastic. Definitely a nice change of pace from the more serious TV shows I've been watching of late.

[thenextchampion]

I just started watching Burn Notice, and it's pretty fantastic. Definitely a nice change of pace from the more serious TV shows I've been watching of late.

You know why it's good? Cause Bruce 'mothafucka' Campbell is in it, that's why!

[oh_caroline]

I just started watching Burn Notice, and it's pretty fantastic. Definitely a nice change of pace from the more serious TV shows I've been watching of late.

This show is such fun.

[comicbookchris]

I caught the reruns of Fraiser last night on Television for Battered Women (aka Lifetime) and was reminded how funny that show was. It also made me sad, cause Kelsey Grammer is such an amazing comedic actor, yet after Fraiser went off the air he can't seem to get a gig that sticks. This man's talents serverly need to be put to good use!

[Megnolia]

Television for Battered Women (aka Lifetime)

Ha. I always refer to Lifetime as "The Period Channel"

[thenextchampion]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YjAG5itw89Y

[timmywood-]

I don't know if any of yall have seen Mitchell Hurwitz, of arrested development fames, new show yet Sit Down, and Shut Up.

I watched the pilot on HULU the other day and sadly it was not very good. I will admit laughing at Will Fortes character a few times but over all very disappointing. I mean one of the characters names is Larry Littlejunk. I am not even kidding.

[dave-carr]

I don't know if any of yall have seen Mitchell Hurwitz, of arrested development fames, new show yet Sit Down, and Shut Up.

I watched the pilot on HULU the other day and sadly it was not very good. I will admit laughing at Will Fortes character a few times but over all very disappointing. I mean one of the characters names is Larry Littlejunk. I am not even kidding.

I'm pretty sure a Tumbleweed blew by my TV while I watched it.

[thenextchampion]

Bill Oakley and Josh Weinstein (the producers of Sit Down, Shut Up...well at least Weinstein is) just dont seem to get it that they are not good at comedy.

They got lucky on joining The Simpsons crew and they only produced great episodes cause they had great writers on staff. What have they done since they left Simpsons?


Mission Hill
The Mullets
Sit Down, Shut Up

All clunkers

[cadgers]

Bill Oakley and Josh Weinstein (the producers of Sit Down, Shut Up...well at least Weinstein is) just dont seem to get it that they are not good at comedy.

They got lucky on joining The Simpsons crew and they only produced great episodes cause they had great writers on staff. What have they done since they left Simpsons?


Mission Hill
The Mullets
Sit Down, Shut Up

All clunkers

Your crazy! Mission Hill was fantastic.

[thenextchampion]

Your crazy! Mission Hill was fantastic.

Eh....it was okay.

[gobo]

No, Mission Hill was awesome.

[thenextchampion]

No, Mission Hill was awesome.

*rubs eyes* Let's not turn this into the Arrested Development argument again.....

[gobo]

I'm nowhere near as passionate about Mission Hill :)

[thenextchampion]

I'm nowhere near as passionate about Mission Hill :)

Hey at least I can say Mission Hill was SOMEWHAT funny.....not like that other show I just mentioned




....and that's all I'm gonna say :)

[timmywood-]

Bill Oakley and Josh Weinstein (the producers of Sit Down, Shut Up...well at least Weinstein is) just dont seem to get it that they are not good at comedy.

They got lucky on joining The Simpsons crew and they only produced great episodes cause they had great writers on staff. What have they done since they left Simpsons?


Mission Hill
The Mullets
Sit Down, Shut Up

All clunkers

I also second the Mission Hill love. It is a show that didn't make me laugh out loud but I grew to love the characters and storylines. It's a good show. If it's on i tend to stop what I am doing to watch it.

And you don't like Arrested Development. Congratulations. You are the first person I have ever met who didn't like that show.

[timmywood-]

@TNC that last comment is a little more dickish then it was meant to be. I am not knocking that you don't like it. It just is an opinion of the show that I haven't heard that often.

[thenextchampion]

@TNC that last comment is a little more dickish then it was meant to be. I am not knocking that you don't like it. It just is an opinion of the show that I haven't heard that often.

Go back 10-15 pages on this thread and find the original argument with me vs ifanbase on Arrested Development. Trust me, nothing dickish at all with what you said.

That post josh did with Will Arnett, that still makes me laugh.

[optimus187prime]

Anyone watch Breaking Bad? I have a co-worker who keeps urging me to take a gander.

[gobo]

It's one of, if not the, best show(s) on television. Must see.

[optimus187prime]

It's one of, if not the, best show(s) on television. Must see.

Well good to know I will have to give it a watch. I think it is available on demand too, which makes my life easier.

[miyamotofreak]

Breaking Bad is fantastic. The show has a slower pace than a turtle and uses it to it's full advantage. Have to start at episode one (but there's not that many episodes anyway).

[thenextchampion]

Oh man....best reaction ever....

*sorry if the audio is a bit crappy*

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g06lOfuZZkc&feature=related

[comicbookchris]

Oh man....best reaction ever....

*sorry if the audio is a bit crappy*

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g06lOfuZZkc&feature=related

I remember being so excited that Family Guy came back from cancellation. Now, it seems as each season goes by, I get more and more disappointed by the show. It seems they don't even try to make clever jokes anymore. Sorry to rag on this man, but it seems like they took one of the many clips of someone reacting to the epic 2 Girls 1 Cup and just put Stewie in the place.

Sorry to be negative, it just makes me upset to see how far this show has fallen from one of the funniest shows ever.

[thenextchampion]

I remember being so excited that Family Guy came back from cancellation. Now, it seems as each season goes by, I get more and more disappointed by the show. It seems they don't even try to make clever jokes anymore. Sorry to rag on this man, but it seems like they took one of the many clips of someone reacting to the epic 2 Girls 1 Cup and just put Stewie in the place.

Sorry to be negative, it just makes me upset to see how far this show has fallen from one of the funniest shows ever.

I admit that the quality of the show has dipped a bit....It isnt as nearly as funny as from two years ago. But I still find it to be a good source of jokes from time to time. Unlike The Simpsons; which I refuse to watch new episodes from here on out.


and come on.....even if they found like the best reaction to use for Stewie....it's really funny...

[comicbookchris]

I admit that the quality of the show has dipped a bit....It isnt as nearly as funny as from two years ago. But I still find it to be a good source of jokes from time to time. Unlike The Simpsons; which I refuse to watch new episodes from here on out.


and come on.....even if they found like the best reaction to use for Stewie....it's really funny...

I remember seeing that vid...I didn't have a reaction, I threw up on my friend's carpet :(

I'll agree with you that both Family Guy and The Simpsons both had a negative decline in joke quality, Family Guy had seemed to have taken on many negative qualities whereas The Simpsons simply got dry. For instance, I hate the very obvious anti-right wing attitude FG has seemed to take. Not that I'm offended by them doing that, but there is a huge difference in making jokes about Republicans and just flat out bashing them, and I feel FG constantly does the latter. See the latest episode when Lois becomes a Fox News reporter as an example. Everything goes how you expect it to go, with Fox News being evil and Brian being the voice of reason knowing the truth.

And that's another thing! I hate now that Brian has been reduced to becoming nothing more than Seth MacFarlane's mouthpiece for political and personal views, so now he just comes across as preachy and annoying.

I seem to taste some venom coming from my mouth, so I'll finish up before I become super rabid haha. FG has seemed to lost the concept of repetition humor. Everytime those fucking vaudville players come on to do a song, everytime Peter gets into a fight with a chicken for half an hour, everytime Peter or someone else falls and clutches their knee for an extended period of time, I wanna take a shovel, knock them unconscious, and bury them in the joke graveyard.

Like I said before, if this show was always this bad, I wouldn't care about all these things. All I can do is pray for a quick and immediate death to this show now, with only my hysterically funny Season 1-3 dvds as a reminder.

[thenextchampion]

I remember seeing that vid...I didn't have a reaction, I threw up on my friend's carpet :(

I'll agree with you that both Family Guy and The Simpsons both had a negative decline in joke quality, Family Guy had seemed to have taken on many negative qualities whereas The Simpsons simply got dry. For instance, I hate the very obvious anti-right wing attitude FG has seemed to take. Not that I'm offended by them doing that, but there is a huge difference in making jokes about Republicans and just flat out bashing them, and I feel FG constantly does the latter. See the latest episode when Lois becomes a Fox News reporter as an example. Everything goes how you expect it to go, with Fox News being evil and Brian being the voice of reason knowing the truth.

And that's another thing! I hate now that Brian has been reduced to becoming nothing more than Seth MacFarlane's mouthpiece for political and personal views, so now he just comes across as preachy and annoying.

I seem to taste some venom coming from my mouth, so I'll finish up before I become super rabid haha. FG has seemed to lost the concept of repetition humor. Everytime those fucking vaudville players come on to do a song, everytime Peter gets into a fight with a chicken for half an hour, everytime Peter or someone else falls and clutches their knee for an extended period of time, I wanna take a shovel, knock them unconscious, and bury them in the joke graveyard.

Like I said before, if this show was always this bad, I wouldn't care about all these things. All I can do is pray for a quick and immediate death to this show now, with only my hysterically funny Season 1-3 dvds as a reminder.

Harsh.....

Seriously I see where your getting at. I think it's frustrating how it has turned into a mouthpeice for McFarlane to say whatever he wants. But the show has always been like that, but it's more obvious then it was. But those jokes you mentioned about vaudville guys, chicken jokes, and someone falling down...

The Vaudville guys are dead, the chicken is awesome, and they dont usually do people in pain for long periods of time anymore. They've almost all been replaced by Brian's novel....But I still find more humor then I would in a regular sitcom.

[tomanderson]

yo, have you guys been seeing the ads for Royal Pains? As a devoted USA watched I'm on there watching shows a bunch and they've been steadily picking up.

It's starting up June 4 about a concierge doctor for the rich in the Hamptons.

[conorkilpatrick]

NBC's faux fall schedule announcement (http://www.nj.com/entertainment/tv/index.ssf/2009/05/nbcs_faux_fall_schedule_announ.html)

NEW YORK -- Last year, NBC jumped the gun on the traditional network "upfront" process - when the broadcast networks unveil their fall schedules and new shows to advertisers - by nearly two months, announcing at their "infront" a three-pronged, year-round schedule that bore a casual resemblance at best to what actually aired. This year, NBC moved back its infront so it would only be two weeks before the upfronts, and declined to reveal any kind of a schedule - or to announce all of their series pick-ups.

Speaking to advertisers, and then the media, from the "Saturday Night Live" studio at NBC's Rockefeller Center headquarters, NBC Entertainment co-chairman Ben Silverman and his team announced the pick-up of several current NBC series - "Heroes," the cop drama "Southland," the comedy "Parks and Recreation," several more primetime installments of "Weekend Update" from "SNL" - while also introducing a handful of new series. (Other NBC shows - "The Office," "30 Rock," "The Biggest Loser," "Celebrity Apprentice," "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" and "Friday Night Lights" had all received previous pick-ups.)

But Silverman, Entertainment president Angela Bromstad and the rest declined to announce the new schedule, or the fate of four bubble series - "Chuck," "Medium," "My Name Is Earl" and the original "Law & Order" - until May 19, which happens to be right in the middle of the traditional Upfront Week.

More in link.

[oh_caroline]

Happy about 'Southland' and '30 Rock'. 'Law & Order' original flavor is a bubble series though? Wow, would be the end of an era. I guess it's not that surprising when it's been around for about 20 years, and we're pretty saturated with spinoffs, but still (says Miss Hasn't-Watched-Law-and-Order-of-Any-Kind-Since-1999).

[gobo]

Pretty bummed Life has been cancelled. Hoping My Name is Earl and Chuck make it through

[neb]

Pretty bummed Life has been cancelled. Hoping My Name is Earl and Chuck make it through

Yeah, that sucks so bad. I loved that show!

[gobo]

I'm glad it had a really satisfying series finale though, at least it didn't leave lots of things hanging

[cadgers]

Anyone catch the Scrubs finale? I thought it was a great finale. I love that they had the scene with Sam and Izzie as adults, telling J.D. and Turk they're engaged.

[optimus187prime]

Anyone catch the Scrubs finale? I thought it was a great finale. I love that they had the scene with Sam and Izzie as adults, telling J.D. and Turk they're engaged.

I used to love that show but it slowly turned to hate. Now when I see it on, I make sure to change it immediately. Dont know what happened, but JD bothers me soo much now.

[gobo]

This last season has been a major return to form, it's been really good.

[optimus187prime]

This last season has been a major return to form, it's been really good.

I think I just got tired of that brand of humor.

[conorkilpatrick]

This last season has been a major return to form, it's been really good.

No show made me laugh harder than Scrubs did this season.

[neb]

For Scrubs, is anything after season 4 any good (accept this new season, which people have said was good)? My fiance and I watch this show on DVD and haven't really gotten around to seasons 5-7...

[optimus187prime]

For Scrubs, is anything after season 4 any good (accept this new season, which people have said was good)? My fiance and I watch this show on DVD and haven't really gotten around to seasons 5-7...

IMO thats when it goes down hill.

[oh_caroline]

I wanted to comment that I think "Southland" is getting better and better. Also, it's an arc-light show at this point, so while having the cumulative character knowledge adds dimension to each episode, it's easy to watch any individual ep on its own. The last episode that aired ("Two Gangs", 1x04 though for some reason it aired after 1x05) was one of the stronger hours of TV I've seen in a while. I definitely encourage any crime drama fans who haven't checked it out to give it a shot. (The whole series so far is on Hulu as well, if you want to watch from the beginning, but like I said it's possible to pick up with any episode).

[neb]

I started the second season of 30 Rock last night, and it's pretty hysterical. I've really been enjoying it. What's really funny is that when you watch a bunch of hour long shows on DVD, these 30 minute ones just blow by. But each one is a lot of fun to watch.

[gobo]

30 Rock might be the only show I have to pause because I'm laughing so hard I can't hear the TV.

[timmywood-]

Alright. I have a confession to make.

I have watched all the episodes of Sit Down, Shut Up.....and I have laughed out loud.

Look. It's not a good show. I am not going to try and recommend it to anyone. The first two episodes are pretty horrible. But the third and the fourth had me laughing... a lot..

There that was my confession.

[conorkilpatrick]

Chuck got renewed! (http://www.thrfeed.com/2009/05/nbc-renews-chuck.html) (with deep budget cuts - eep!)

[thenextchampion]

Chuck got renewed! (http://www.thrfeed.com/2009/05/nbc-renews-chuck.html) (with deep budget cuts - eep!)

That show got renewed while The Unusuals gets canned!? What else could go wrong?


*sees Scrubs got renewed*


GAHHHHH!!!!!! *knocks self out*

[oh_caroline]

I finally got around to starting season one of 'Sarah Connor Chronicles' on the same day everybody was telling me it had been canceled. (But now I hear it might not be? So confused).

Anyway, despite being a bit of a 'Terminator' purist (I'd be happy if they'd never made the second movie, much less any of the others) , I'm finding this a lot of fun. It has bar none the best fight scenes I've ever seen on a TV show -- I mean, leaps and bounds better than anything else -- and I am a total sucker for the emotional notes it hits. Great cast, too. I can't think of a better use for Summer Glau.

[thenextchampion]

Anyway, despite being a bit of a 'Terminator' purist (I'd be happy if they'd never made the second movie, much less any of the others) , I'm finding this a lot of fun. It has bar none the best fight scenes I've ever seen on a TV show -- I mean, leaps and bounds better than anything else -- and I am a total sucker for the emotional notes it hits. Great cast, too. I can't think of a better use for Summer Glau.

Alright I know this is a TV thread but one sec here....

What is wrong with the 2nd film? It's easily one of the greatest action films ever made. Probably also one of the rarest times a sequel outshines the original.

[crippler]

I finally got around to starting season one of 'Sarah Connor Chronicles' on the same day everybody was telling me it had been canceled. (But now I hear it might not be? So confused).

Anyway, despite being a bit of a 'Terminator' purist (I'd be happy if they'd never made the second movie, much less any of the others) , I'm finding this a lot of fun. It has bar none the best fight scenes I've ever seen on a TV show -- I mean, leaps and bounds better than anything else -- and I am a total sucker for the emotional notes it hits. Great cast, too. I can't think of a better use for Summer Glau.


ONE convert! *Ding!*

Aside from the bit about the second movie (which is an action movie masterpiece imo) I agree totally. I've been beating the drum for this show for a long time. I assure you that season 2 is much better then season 1 and hopefully there will be a season 3 for us both to talk about!

[oh_caroline]

ONE convert! *Ding!*

Aside from the bit about the second movie (which is an action movie masterpiece imo) I agree totally. I've been beating the drum for this show for a long time. I assure you that season 2 is much better then season 1 and hopefully there will be a season 3 for us both to talk about!


T2 is a fine action movie, but to me 'Terminator' is the ultimate movie that doesn't need a sequel. The time travel story is a closed loop. Every time they time travel after that, it gets a little more silly. Also, I feel about Eddie Furlong the way a lot of people feel about Hayden Christensen in the 'Star Wars' prequels, but that's a personal thing.

[gobo]

SCC IS officially cancelled, sorry Caroline


But yeah Scrubs, Chuck and Dollhouse were all renewed, tentative yays all around.

Scrubs might be great with a modified cast and I'm hoping will have some new life breathed into it (Season 8 was great), but could obviously flop majorly with whoever they bring the focus around

Chuck was great and I'm glad it's back but the budget cuts might hurt it if it's not handled creatively

Dollhouse I'm only excited about if it doesn't go back to the terrible quality of the first few episodes.

[cadgers]

Scrubs might be great with a modified cast and I'm hoping will have some new life breathed into it (Season 8 was great), but could obviously flop majorly with whoever they bring the focus around

I look forward to seeing what happens with Season 9. I really hope it doesn't involve too much J.D though as the ending would feel moot at that point.

[gobo]

JD's going to be in 6 episodes to help transition apparently, then he's gone.

[thenextchampion]

Hmmm.....this could get me back on watching Heroes. NO! Not going to be swayed again! Still I like the casting....

Darth Maul to take on Heroes

'Ray Park is rumored to be casted as a villain for the 4th season on Heroes'

http://tv.ign.com/articles/991/991971p1.html

[naveenm]

I still laugh whenever I watch Scrubs, but really, I can't believe its still on.

I guess there have been major cast changes? Is Braff finally leaving? And why would the show go on if he did?

[thenextchampion]

And so....this show will get quickly cancelled (hopefully)

Bryan Fuller leaves Heroes....again

http://blog.newsarama.com/2009/06/23/bryan-fuller-leaves-heroes/

[gobo]

I still laugh whenever I watch Scrubs, but really, I can't believe its still on.

I guess there have been major cast changes? Is Braff finally leaving? And why would the show go on if he did?

Braff is going to apparently be in a few episodes to transition next season. Scrubs next season is going to pretty much be a spinoff show, it'll be med students in school with some trips to Sacred Heart where we'll see some familiar faces. I think some of the main cast might be teachers at the med school, but I can't remember who or how many right now