Person of Interest Review

Network/Writer(s): CBS/Johnathan Nolan

Actors: Jim Caviezel, Micheal Emerson, Taraji P. Henson

Summary: An ex-CIA hitman and a scientist who team up to prevent crimes before they happen.

***

[NOTE: This review may contain spoilers, so please watch the show before reading, or don't.]

Not really a fan of procedurals, except when they have a different or interesting ideas. Person of Interest satisfies this need for me. It basically centers on an ex-CIA Hitman who is recruited by a mysterious man of science with a limp, and is set in New York City, which gives them the chance to have multiple seasons without draining the well (Hell, Law and Order lasted 20 years!).

The ex-assassin, John Reese, played by Jim Caviezel Jesus, who we find out loses someone he loves on 9/11. Before I go on, let me digress here, does every show that is centered in New York have to have some connection to 9/11? It's a tragedy, I know, but the city is transient enough that not everyone needs to be associated with that disaster. Not every show that's based in Hawaii has a connect to Pearl Harbor (correct me if I'm wrong).

Back to Jesus and his missions, he is recruited by a former government scientist named "Finch." Finch created a way for the government to take all of the spying they are doing on Americans and separate them in to basically important and non-important list (holy 1984, Batman). But the twist is that Finch only gets social security numbers. I like this idea because it give the computer a cold approach, while leaving enough mystery that you can have a normal procedural show.

The first case that Reese takes on is that of an ADA who, like most characters the episodes revolves around, may be the criminal, or they maybe the victim. The show moves along at a snails pace with some slick transition shots as Reese follows the ADA gathering information. Then, when he sees the slightest hint of suspicion from one of the possible "suspects" he moves in. This is where the show picks up, as the first twist in the series is a good one, when we find out the ADA is not as squeaky clean as she seems, and is part of a dirty cop/prosecutor gambit.

When the action picks up, Jesus shines. Between bad ass moments, such as, taunting one of the dirty cops who has been tabbed with killing him, and the setting off a flash grenade to flip the car over and escape, he begins to really sell the character. If the rest of the season is like the last half of the show rather than the first half, in terms of dialog and pacing, I think it will succeed on a network like CBS.

Caviezel and Emerson give top notch performances, which should propel the series through season one, just like Mark Harmon did for NCIS. It'll be interesting to see how they use the talent of Henson. If she can become a part of the team in an indirect way by mid-season, I think this show has a solid chance to not hit the first season wall that most procedurals hit. This usually happens when they don't know how to freshen up the show so that it doesn't become predictable; a hurdle which is great when a show clears it.

Rating: 7/10. Slow start hampers overall experience, but great plot twist and interesting exposition, make it worth the time.

Interest: Moderately High. Premise and actor will keep me watching, but if it gets too complicated, I'll bail.

Revenge Review

Network/Writer(s): ABC/Mike Kelley

Actors: Emily VanCamp, Madeline Stowe, Gabriel Mann, Henry Czerny, Connor Paolo, Ashley Madekwe, Joshua Bowman, Nick Wechsler

Summary: Emily Thorne returns to Southampton and rents the seaside home she shared with her father, David Clarke, 17 years ago. With the help of her only friend, Ashley, she sets her sites on her first target, and puts her carefully organized plan in motion.

***

[NOTE: This review may contain spoilers, so please watch the show before reading, or don't.]
 

I was kind of on the fence about Revenge when I first saw Emily VanCamp drive past me everyday on the side of a bus. But I was intrigued enough to give it a chance because I was such a fan of VanCamp in Everwood. And I'm glad I did!

The Count of Monte Cristo (read it!), a classic story of payback and long range revenge plots, is one of most sampled stories in literature, and Revenge takes the main plot from the book and puts a modern twist on it. Instead of a ship, it's the financial industry. And instead of Europe, it's the Hamptons. 

VanCamp plays the role of the Count, or Emily Thorne (formerly Amanda Clarke), but instead of being the one who was screwed over, she's the daughter of the person back stabbed by his co-workers, and branded a terrorist sympathizer.

The travesty is revealed to her by her father's one confidant, Nolan Ross, played smoothly by the underrated Gabriel Mann. She is left a great fortune, which by the way would be impossible to get without leaving a trail, but thus is TV. She plots her vengeance for years, and decides to start the plan when the opportunity comes to rent her childhood beach house for the summer. One last thought on the money, they never specify exactly how much she has or how she has been able to maintain it (hopefully we learn later), but I guess when she nonchalantly buys a $10,000 ticket to a charity event, we're suppose to assume she's SUPER LOADED.

Despite the minor problems with her character backstory, VanCamp is brilliant in the pilot, her expressions can instantly go from cheery to evil without much effort. She showcases the fire that burns inside Emily, and still allows her to be vulnerable when needed. Especially when she meet childhood friend Jack Porter (Nick Wechsler), who has raised her puppy that was left when her father was arrested.

The show really shines when Victoria Grayson (Madeline Stowe) appears on screen. Stowe steely look is perfect for the vindictive "Queen Victoria". The guts of the show lies in the performance of Stowe and VanCamp when they talk on screen. If VanCamp can keep up with Stowe, the series could be one of the best in a while, but if she falters, then the illusion that Emily can best Victoria is lost. We need to believe that Emily is smarter than Victoria or the story doesn't work.

Opening with what looked to be the final scene of the series is a ballsy move by the creators, but exciting at the same time. This show is tailor made for a one and done series, like Harper's Island and The Killing. If ABC tries to milk more seasons out of this show, they water down the effect the show could have. But then again, Desperate Housewives is still on the air

Monte Cristo is one of the best revenge stories ever written, and if the writers can keep Revenge on track and follow that template with some deviations here and there, ABC will have a monster hit on its hands. But if the try to make a second season, it will be a grave mistake.

The pilot from the outside has the look and feel of a CW show, but the writing and the direction is basic cable level. I believe this show could have played well on an A&E or FX, but I'll hold judgement on if it is right for ABC until a few episodes in.

A stellar cast of known actors, but not too known, will make this the breakout show of the season, and definitely the best pilot so far. Only a little slip up at the end with Amanda Emily's backstory, kept this from being one of the best pilots in a while.

Keep an eye on Connor Paolo, last seen as a Van Der Woodsen, in his first role since Gossip Girl. His performance on that show was greatly undervalued and I hope he gets to shine in this series

Rating: 9/10. Only a small mistake kept this pilot from being a 9.5 or 9.75.

Interest: Very high. Season long mystery arc suck me in each week (Miss you, Veronica Mars). Plus, VanCamp lights up every scene she's in, and even if this gets dragged down by plot, I will still tune in for her.

New Girl Review

Network/Writer(s): FOX/Elizabeth Meriwether

Actors: Zooey Deschanel, Max Greenfield, Damon Wayans Jr., Jake M. Johnson, Hannah Simone

Summary: Jess Day is a young woman who, after discovering her long-term boyfriend is cheating on her, moves into a loft apartment with three male roommates - prickly bartender Nick, womanizer Schmidt and intense personal trainer Coach. The guys try to help Jess get back on her feet and into the dating world.

***

[NOTE: This review may contain spoilers, so please watch the show before reading, or don't.]

In the last the review, I mentioned that I really don't care for sitcoms. Even after writing that review, I still don't have a reason, but after watching New Girl, I can easily explain what I like about certain sitcoms.

It's all about the delivery. If the actors say their lines like they should be winking afterwards, then that is what turns me off. This is why I believe that shows like The Office, Scrubs, and now New Girl, have excited me more that your generic Rules of Engagement-type sitcoms (seriously, I thought that show was going to be the next According to Jim). Each of those shows lead actors (Steve Carell, Zach Braff, and Zooey Deschanel) has the uncanny ability to deliver their line to almost absolute perfection. Sure they will miss from time to time, but I will give an actor a little rope, if they've been good in the past.

Make no mistake about, Deschanel steals this pilot. She is pitch perfect in every scene. It is a really hard job to make the awkward girl a tolerable character. She plays Jess as sweet rather than goofy. Each time that she makes a mistake, it registers as her trying too hard, not being goofy for attention. It's a fine line, but she balances it wonderfully.

Jess' three roommates, Nick, Schmidt and Coach (really?) are still a work in progress. There are flashes of comedic brilliance from Nick (played by Jake M. Johnson), especially when he realizes that Jess just created a theme song for herself. His deliver of line is genius because it's like he's the audience. Also, it appears that he could have the ability to stay with Deschanel if the scenes skew dramatic.

The opposite can be said about Coach (Damon Wayans Jr.) and Schmidt (Max Greenfield). The lines and delivery for both characters is wooden and stale. Schmidt douche-y personality seems more sad than douche-y. While the Coach character suffers from the same problems as Schmidt, I think Wayans Jr. has better chance to grow the character than Greenfield. But neither has been given a good 3D character to work with.

The writing is very good. Jokes are crisp, and it allows Jess' personality to shine, but it fails to deliver as strongly with the other characters. I'll hold judgement on Cece (Hannah Simone) because she was really there to show that Jess had another friend. For a pilot, the writers did their job and showcased the main character but hopefully, they show as much TLC to the others in future episodes.

Rating: 8/10. Strong writing, but a little unbalanced in terms of character development.

Interest: High. Deschanel is perfect for Jess. She can play, sweet, awkward, and hurt without much effort. If you want another point of reference, rent 500 Days of Summer tonight.

2 Broke Girls Review

Network/Writer(s): CBS/Molly McAleer

Actors: Kat Dennings, Beth Behrs, Jonathan Kite, Brooke Lyons

Summary: Experienced waitress Max Black meets her new co-worker, former rich-girl Caroline Channing, and puts her skills to the test at an old but re-emerging Brooklyn diner. Despite her initial distaste for Caroline, Max eventually softens and the two team up for a new business venture.

***

[NOTE: This review contains spoilers. Please watch episode before reading, or not. I really don't care]

I'm not really the biggest sitcom fan. I don't know why. I love comedy, and comedy writing, but for some reason sitcoms get really boring for me. Especially multi-camera versions. There are exceptions though, but they are mostly single camera. The Office, Scrubs, and Arrested Development are the few that I've actually stayed with for more than a season.

Despite my hesitation, I gave this show a shot because I have enjoyed everything that Kat Dennings has done. So I expected this show to be the exception to my rule.

But it didn't completely win me over despite Dennings' good performance as tough as nails waitress, Max Black. Most of my negative feelings toward the show has to do with Dennings co-star, Beth Behrs, and the cliche situations she was forced to act.

Behrs played her role as former socialite, Caroline Channing, well, but was forced to deliver very stereotypical lines and that hurt her performance. The one redeeming light for her work was that she could stand toe-to-toe with Dennings when asked. These were mostly scenes where she wasn't acting like a vapid air head. Most notably when Max is asking her rapid fire question when she is first hired.

Instead of making her naive, they made her seem stupid, even though they claimed she went to Wharton Business School. Which despite making my eyes roll when it was first mentioned, actually paid off at the end of the episode when she devises the cupcake store business.

If you haven't noticed by now, predictability is one of my pet peeves. I don't expect the show to surprise me with every scene, actually I enjoy guessing what the major plot is before it happens. I feel like its a payoff for paying attention.

But that is also the problem, I pay attention. So when a show get so predictable that I could tell the person I'm watching it with what will happen the rest of the episode after the opening credits; there a problem. Every big gag on 2 Broke Girls was telegraphed. From the horse at the end, to the cheating boyfriend, to Caroline not sleeping at a friend (I've seen way too many Gossip Girls), the show really laid everything out early as if they were expecting elderly people to watch it.

For a "hip, young show", there was way too much hand holding with jokes, and very elementary setup-punchline moments. Even with all that, the show had one surprise element that will keep me glued for at least another few weeks: the money counter at the end. I know it seems stupid, but the idea that they have a thought of how the season will end, has me intrigued.

The writing was okay, and the performances helped make it look better, but I'm hoping that they both get better as it goes along. And can we please get rid of the "One Day at a Time" Schneider wannabe in the kitchen. A 5-year-old could write his lines.

Rating: 6/10. Very predictable, but still well done for the genre.

Interest: Mild, but I'm curious where the cupcake business goes. I like the money counter at the end.

The Secret Circle Review

Network/Writer(s): CW/Andrew Miller

Actors: Brittany Robertson, Thomas Dekker, Natasha Henstridge, Phoebe Tonkin, Shelley Hennig

Summary: Cassie Blake's world is turned upside down after her mother dies in a mysterious accident, forcing Cassie to move in with her loving grandmother Jane in the small town of Chance Harbor, Washington.When strange and dangerous things begin to happen, Cassie's new friends are forced to tell her their secret - they are all witches and her arrival will complete the Circle.

***
[Note: This contains spoilers, please watch the episode before hand. Thanks.] 

There's nothing better than a good mystery involving some sort of super natural power, or ability. If done correctly, the ancient back stories, and interlacing of families, allows for interesting avenues for the story to go. Good character go bad, bad characters redeem themselves, and you can repeat the process. The only caveat is that each time you change the dynamic, it needs to be plausible.

This why I rank "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" as my favorite show of all-time. Each time Angel switched side, or Spike's eventual arc to champion, or Willow's dip into black magic, the story leading up to it was easily understandable. This has been carried on by "Angel", "Vampire Diaries", and early "Heroes". If you need to re-watch an episode multiple times, or review past episodes to figure out a twist, then it was done wrong.

Thankfully, "The Secret Circle" is in the hands of one of the best show runners/creator/human beings alive in Kevin Williamson (Dawson's Creek, Vampire Diaries, Scream). Like every other pilot he has been a part of, you finish the show with a very clear idea of where the show is headed.

The opening scene did a great job of setting the tone for the series. There's a bad witch (warlock?) dressed in black (of course) who kills the innocent women dressed in white (oh, CW, with your metaphorical story telling). The woman is the mother of the protagonist, Cassie Blake, played by the adorable Brittany Robertson. Seriously, she can play detached, cynical girl with the best of them. I hope the writers do a better job helping her show range then those on Life Unexpected did. This girl could easily be the Joey Potter of this generation, minus the hair tucking and talking out of the side of her mouth, with Jen Lindley's acting ability.

Once she gets to Chance Harbor, Washington, which when it's first shown, looks like the sister city of Forks, but once we get into town proper, it gives off a Capeside-Salem-Massachusetts feel. Which is perfect since the show is about witches. The show was originally suppose to be New Salem, Maine, but even the CW didn't want to be that obvious.

We meet all the typical character in a town like this: Cassie's Grandmother (The elder), Faye (the maybe-bad teenage witch), Dianna (the good witch), Adam (the brooding teen who could be good or bad; Angel), Dawn (the hidden bad witch), Charles (the big bad), and Ethan (the holder of past knowledge). Once the interweaving of the character occurs, the plot takes form. Charles is Dianna father, Dawn is Faye's mom, Ethan who was "destined" to be with Cassie's mom, is Adam's dad, and Adam is "destined" for Cassie but dates Dianna. Confused, yet?

For a pilot, they pack a lot of the interweaving in it. Some of these reveals could have been held off, but no ones tells stories like that anymore (the Vampire Diaries have blown through 6 seasons worth of characters in 2 years!). Gone are the days of the slow, introspective plot where we learn to feel for the character. Today we need to be instantly gratified with a love triangle, or a plot twist. I don't know if it's the right way or not, but I feel that we need a little more time with the character before they threw out the star crossed lovers storyline.

Now, that you've meet everyone, it is time for the reveals. In the last 15 minutes, we find out the Ethan and Dawn are working together, that Faye is just power hungry, Dianna wants to control it (I see these two flip-flopping at some point), Cassie's is the most powerful of all ("Make it stop!" Is a very simple, but apparently, powerful spell), and baddies will be coming for Cassie and her "power". The latter of which was obviously if you were slightly paying attention during the show, but you know, let's beat that dead horse one more time before the credits.

The magic in the show is nothing special, yet. It's the one thing I thought was done perfectly by the writers: To slowly reveal the power of the teenagers, while showing the devastatingly evil magic they could ascend to through their parents. The only disappointing thing was that spell were, for lack of a better word, lame. The main one they say out loud is "a drop of water/light as air," is very simplistic. If they went for simplicity, at least make it sound a little more ancient; use older, less commonly used words.

I read a review on the A.V. Club that said this show has the possibility to be "Dawson's Creek by way of Twilight", if I'm the CW, and this happens, I'm orgasming in my office right now. Those two entities have the most loyal fan bases in the last 20 years of pop culture, along with "Lost" and the aforementioned, "Buffy". The network would make untold money if that happened.

Hopefully, the Secret Circle will learn form it's predecessors and string along a narrative that is not always predictable (well, this is the CW, some of it is going to be predictable). If they achieve this, they will form a powerful combination with Vampire Diaries on Thursday.

Rating: 8.5/10. Gave you most of the background in 60 minutes, but left enough mystery to allow the show to breath, and possibly separate from the books.

Interest: Beautiful women (Shelley Hennig is much prettier than she looks in the pilot), interesting story, and Kevin Williamson. You're damn right, I'm still watching.

Ringer Review

Network/Writer(s): CW/Eric C. Charmelo, Nicole Snyder

Actors: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Kristoffer Polaha, Ioan Gruffudd, Tara Summers

Summary: A young woman on the run from the mob poses as her wealthy twin sister to try and evade them, but soon discovers that her sister has a price on her head as well.

 ***

Sarah Michelle Gellar (miss you, Buff) plays a dual role, which she does a lot better as separate characters than acting with herself (more on that later). She plays Bridget, a recovering addict stripper, and Siobhan, a New York Socialite. She's a lot stronger as Bridget, probably because it's much closer to Buffy than the cold Siobhan.

First off, I'd like to point out that I know that the CW is a little more low-budget than the big four networks, so my next point should be taken with a grain of salt. The scenes where Gellar act opposite herself are laughable in production quality. Though I enjoyed the mirror scene because it was as if they were showing off. Also, she was very wooden and awkward in those scenes, and I was glad when they were finished.

I understand that they wanted the slow, film noir-ish type of storytelling, but the beginning was painfully slow. It was the opposite feeling I had with the ABC Family series "10 Things I Hate About You", where they tried to cram every plot point in the first 10 minutes, and I turned it off at that point.

But Ringer does the opposite, and tries hard to hold back plot points, and kinda takes us through one thread at a time early on. Maybe this is the way it should be but it was way too sleepy for me. Thankfully, things picked up once Siobhan commits "suicide". Hopefully, the writing continues to be this good for the whole series, and doesn't slide back into sleepy mode.

They do a solid job of showing Bridget being overwhelmed in her new life, and trying to figure out how to keep her secret. She's doesn't immediately know how to fit in, and she tries to do things as she thinks they should be. Most notably, her sister's marriage.

In her attempts to save it, she finds out that Siobhan was having an affair with her best friend's husband, Henry, played by the underrated Kristoffer Polaha (Miss you, Baze). After the confusion lifts, Bridget ends things with Henry, and thinks she has every thing under control until... SPOILER (please watch the episode first before reading past this point)

***

Siobhan is pregnant!

The only good thing that comes from this is that Bridget now doesn't have to keep making excuses for not drinking (priorities!). Even though the fake pregnancy has been done before (Glee, for starter), this one actually causes a dilemma more that just an evil scheme.

The writing in the pilot was  uneven, probably the result of some rewrites after CBS passed on it, but the ending...the ending they nailed.

They cut back to the opening scene where Bridget was being cased by a masked man. Seriously, did he really need the mask? He was sent to kill one skinny former drug addict, and I assume he planned on succeeding. You only wear the mask if you plan to leave living witnesses.

I digress. The reveal that Siobhan is alive (BTW, did the CW really have to reveal this twist in the preview) was perfect. It made me sit and wait for the preview of next week's episode, and that is all you really want from a pilot ending; make people want to come back. Thoroughly enjoyed the final 40 minutes of the show.

Rating: 7.5/10. Would have been higher with a better start.

Interest: The ending has me hooked, so let's see how long they can tell this story before it gets boring.

TV Pilot Preview

Ahh, TV pilots. They can either be outstanding or outright terrible. It's true that some fall in the middle, but those aren't ones that we remember.

Don't be fooled, a good pilot doesn't necessarily a good show. There are plenty of examples out there, such as, Life Unexpected. Or even that a show will last for years, such as, My So Called Life.

The best example is a short-lived NBC Drama, The Black Donnellys. It Pilot was far and away the best I've ever seen, and the show kind of nosed dive after that. And before you Lost fanatics scream and holler, I've never actually seen the Lost pilot. OMG, WTF. I know, I know. But even without seeing it, I can admit it probably would be in my top five.

So, Mark, why does a pilot usually mark the high point for a series?

The prevail thought, and the one I agree with, is that the writer has been working on the pilot much longer than they do on the rest of the season's episodes. In theory, they has more time to flesh out the story and take notes from the network and incorporate them before the show airs. There is also more time for re-shoots, and recasting if necessary. The long time period, just like when you create a video game or build a car, allows for most of the bugs to be worked out.

Or, they've told the whole story that's worth telling in one episode. Sometimes there's nothing there for a second episode, so the start throwing shit at the wall and see what sticks. Best example: The Beautiful Life.

So without further ado, here's the list of pilots I will be watch and reviewing (date of premiere and network):

SUNDAY

Once Upon a Time (Oct. 23, ABC) -- Interesting concept with fairy tale characters living in a small town named Story Brooke (I'll wait for you to stop laughing....OK). Reason for watching: Ginnifer Goodwin and Jennifer Morrison. The J/Ginnifers will bring me in, but hopefully the story keeps me.

Pan-Am (Sept. 25, ABC) -- Highly advertised series, probably the most marketed new series (or maybe I watch a lot ABC/Disney programming). More intrigued than excited; probably a watered down version Mad Men. Christina Ricci on TV is enough to make me tune in.

MONDAY

2 Broke Girls (Sept. 19, CBS) -- I love Kat Dennings. That is mainly the only reason I'm giving this show a chance. Of the sorta well known, 'I've seen that girl before but can't place her' Kat Dennings is tied with Krysten Ritter for actress I'll give any show she's in a chance (miss you, Valley Girls).

Hart of Dixie (Sept. 26, CW) -- Rachel Bilson. Rachel Bilson. Rachel Bilson. If you've read my prior post, you'll remember that I miss watching her on TV. Also, I trust that Josh Schwartz will give me at least a watchable season one. After that not so much. The NYC doctor in Alabama is intriguing enough to have me tuned in. Underrated Jamie King as the Queen Bee should be fun.

Terra Nova (Sept. 26, FOX) -- Second most marketed show, so I have to see what the hype is all about. Little known fact, I loved dinosaurs (got the shit scared out of me as an eight-year-old watching Jurassic Park in theaters) and the kid in me wants this show to be good.

TUESDAY

Ringer (Sept. 13, CW) -- Sarah Michele Gellar's return to TV. The twins storyline has a lot of great avenues to go down. Hopefully, it doesn't get too complicated, too quickly. Look for review tomorrow!

New Girl (Sept. 20, FOX) -- If you have iTunes, watch the free preview. Zooey Deschanel is great in this pilot, and the writing is spot on, but I'm skeptical about the male leads. Let's hope they improve as the season rolls along. Definitely worth a season pass if that's your thing.

WEDNESDAY

Revenge (Sept. 21, ABC) -- This seems to be one of those one season and done shows, but the premise is so carnal. People screw her family over, she wants payback. Enough said. Emily Van Camp is too shabby either.

THURSDAY

Charlie's Angels (Sept. 22, ABC) -- Honestly the only reason I'm watching this is because of Minka Kelly. Besides that there's not much interest, unless they surprise me with a great start to the series. My prediction is this will either last forever, or flop by mid-season.

Person of Interest (Sept. 22, CBS) -- Procedural? CBS? Seriously? All kidding aside, the premise is great. A mail has develop a system where he can see when a crime will occur, by spying on specific people. But he doesn't know whether said person is the victim, criminal, or witness. Plus, Jesus is in it, with the evil guy from Lost.

The Secret Circle (Sept. 15, CW) -- Happy to see Brittany Robertson get another show. She suffered from bad series planning and bad writing on Life Unexpected (affair with a teacher, really?). This show is about witchcraft, and the mysterious story and town with a writer from the Vampire Diaries, should equal a great series.

Prime Suspect (Sept. 22, NBC) -- Maria Bello is probably the best actress on network TV this year, and if this series is anywhere near good, she will win a Primetime Emmy. Supporting cast of detectives should allow the story telling to be smooth and well-acted (miss you on Fringe, Charlie). Could be a contender for best drama as well.

FRIDAY

Grimm (Oct. 21, NBC) -- Interesting concept, but those that don't know much about the Brothers Grimm may get lost early on. Freshen up on these stories before viewing. Could be a diamond in the rough for NBC.


A review for each show listed will be posted the day after the pilot. It will contain an info box, a review, a grade for the pilot, and whether or not I will continue to watch (which will mean corresponding reviews). If I don't like a pilot, I will tell you either the situation or the moment that I lost interest. If I like a pilot, I will continue to watch it, and I will have an interest meter at the bottom of each review (not a ratings system).

I hope you enjoy my thoughts, and will read and comment as we weave our way through September's premieres.

Changes to Blog

Since this is a young blog, it will periodically change as I feel the need to improve with more content or scale back and be more focused. Much like an adolescent, I'm learning every day as I write this blog.

For the foreseeable future, this will be almost exclusively a TV Blog with some commentary about sports and movies. So for now, I'm abandoning the daily topics, and will post review the day after shows air and sometimes will post two or three times a day depending on if I have something to say.

So starting the week of September 19th, each day will be dedicated to reviews of TV shows. I will mostly be reviewing new shows, but will throw my opinions in about older shows and sometimes I may write a post about an already completed series that I'm catching up on (look out for my Felicity review in a month or so).

You will get a preview of how the blog will begin to take shape with the reviews of Ringer and The Secret Circle this week (Wednesday and Friday, respectfully). Hope you enjoy the more focused format, if not feel free to tell me about it, or offer to help out.

Have a happy 2011-2012 TV season!

Whatever Wednesday: NCAA Preview

Welcome to my NCAA mini-preview! This will be how the Friday post will look starting September 9th. and ending with the Men's National Championship Game in April. Each week, I will list out my top-15, my Heisman front runner, and my story of the week. At the end of the year it will be fun to see what I got right, and what you will ridicule me for getting wrong.

Let's begin:

Top 15

1. Oklahoma -- Easily the class of the nation, but tough conference play may derail BCS dream.
2. Oregon -- Ducks' offense should give them a shot, but a November meeting with Stanford looms.
3. Alabama -- 'Bama's defense is better than some NFL teams, but the iffy offense could stop them.
4. Boise State -- Boise should go unbeaten, but may not rise above this ranking.
5. Stanford -- My dark horse for the National Title.
6. LSU -- Never count out the Tigers, but the always tough SEC is a blessing and a curse.
7. Wisconsin -- Class of the Big Ten. Much better than overrated Nebraska.
8. Oklahoma State -- Could be surprise Big 12 champ, upset special over the Sooners.
9. Florida State -- I don't like the Seminoles this year, but they're talented enough to win ACC.
10. Texas A&M -- Tough-as-nails as Aggies will give the Cowboys and Sooners close games.
11. TCU -- My dream would be a Boise-TCU BCS title game, but Boise's move to MWC ends that.
12. South Carolina -- The old ball coach will have them ready to play. Could be a land mine team.
13. Arkansas --Ditto with the Razorbacks. Wouldn't put the SEC title game past them.
14. Virginia Tech -- Tech is always exciting on paper, but blah on the field. Should win ACC.
15. Georgia -- Tough opener against Boise, but good showing will put the Dawgs back on the map.

Heisman winner: Andrew Luck, Stanford -- Way to go out on a limb, huh.

Surprise team: Penn State -- Talented D will put Lions in the inaugural Big Ten title game.

Game of the Year: Penn State vs. Wisconsin. PSU pulls out 3-point victory to clinch Big Ten title game birth.

Movie Monday: Disaster Movies

I'm making an early return from my hiatus for a quick run down of my three favorite (not best) Disaster Movies, and a couple crazy underrated entries. Without further ado, in honor of Hurricane Irene:

3. Deep Impact (1998)

Maybe I have a thing for asteroids, or meteors, or space junk hitting the earth, but two of these three movies involve something from space possibly hitting the Earth and ending life as we know it. Deep Impact slides into the third spot because while it's still a terrible more, it takes itself much too seriously. It succeeds at times with emotional moments like the scene with the old couple succumbing to their fate as the tsunami rolls on to coast. It's the only story line that has legitimate closure. Unlike the awful  Elijah Wood and Leelee Sobieski ending with them running up a hill to safety with a baby.

Tagline sums it up best: Oceans Rise. Cities Fall. Hope Survives. (vomit)

Verdict: Good movie to watch if there's not much else on. Plus you get an over the top acting performance from Tea Leoni, which is almost as bad as Bad Boys.

2. The Day after Tomorrow (2004)

Great visuals. Good Acting. Emmy Rossum is actually tolerable in this role, and Jake Gyllenhaall is as dreamy as every. I love the science talk in this movie, I don't know if it's true or not, but they make it sound good.

Verdict: If you are worried about global warming, don't watch this movie. If you're worried about people thinking you have a thing for Jake Gyllenhall, then tell 'em you watch for Dennis Quaid Emmy Rossum.

1. Armageddon (1998)

Bruce Willis. Billy Bob Thornton. Steve Buscemi riding a nuclear war head. Some guy who won an Oscar with Matt Damon. If you haven't seen this movie, you are a communist.

Verdict: Rent this masterpiece movie yesterday. Great campy fun, and it doesn't take it self seriously at all. You will not stop once you start.'

Underrated: Miracle Mile and The Night of the Comet

If you haven't seen Miracle Mile, check it out because the story is sorta interesting but it's so 80's fantastic that it doesn't matter. It stars Dr. Mark Greene Anthony Edwards, and that other chick from St. Elmo's Fire. An it's about nukes and maybe commies, I'm not sure but it's worth at least one viewing if you enjoy 80's "films".

Night of the Comet is just pure, unadulterated insanity. I'm not sure if you could classify it a disaster movie, but I don't care. I've seen this movie dozens of time, but I still don't know how the movie got produced. My only guess is that it was made in the 80's and apparently people would see anything in the 80's.

Must Watch Actresses Update: Sophia Bush sits at No. 4 now because of my Hurricane Irene viewing of One Tree Hill Season 3 and Van Wilder. Great raspy voice (I think you guys have figured out my type). If you want to see an actress put in top level work while dealing with a personal problem (with her TV boyfriend and real-life Ex-husband), watch OTH Season 3. The girl pull some serious raw emotions out during the season finale. She should get more recognition than she does. I will watch anything with her in it, including that awful remake of the Hitcher.

Sports Friday: Quick NCAA Thoughts, Hiatus

After reading over the past few week about conference expansion in the SEC, it reminded me of earlier this year when there were thoughts of creating 4 super-conferences, and doing away with the BCS. Anything that gets the latter accomplished is fine by me. The BCS is a joke, and it's obvious why FBS Division I football is the only sport that doesn't determine it's winner in a playoff: Sponsorship money. University AD's Devil's advocates would say, without the money the other 30-plus sports wouldn't have the money to compete. But I say, isn't there a way to have a playoff and sponsors. Like I don't know, maybe have each bowl game sponsor back a playoff game. Hell charge more for the privilege!

There is a dead period in December that is just itching to be used for playoff games. If scheduled right, you could have the championship game on New Year's Day, and avoid pissing off the NFL. Unless a team is flat out dominant, or is the only team to run the table, I will not consider the BCS National Champion a true champion. Even if the winning team wears Blue and White.

One final NCAA thought, I fully support any use of the death penalty in regards to NCAA violations (again, even for Penn State). Even though in some respects the NCAA is a joke, they are still the governing body. And I believe you would only have to do it one time to a BCS school for everyone to get the message. Whether its Ohio State (please God), or Miami, or USC, or eventually the next team Butch Davis coaches, there needs to be a clear message that no one is above the rules; BCS conference or not. Either that or change the rules.

NOTE: This part of the blog will be on hiatus until the special college football kickoff post on Wednesday, August 31st, which will include my first prediction. Also, look for my top-15 every Sunday. It will just list the teams, and a one sentence explanation on their ranking, or other thought. I will wait until the Marshall-West Virginia game is final to post my inaugural rankings.

Whatever Wednesday: DVD Tuesday, EPL, Hell

First, I'd like to announce a change to DVD Tuesday — which was part of the reason that there was no post yesterday — instead of reviewing DVD that came out that day, I will review ones from the past week. This blog will be evolving and changing, and this is one of those changes. Until I can figure out a way to watch (legally) the movie a day before it is released, my work schedule will not allow me to be as current as I want to be. So look for my first (or many) DVD review(s) next Tuesday.


Moving on...

As much as I enjoy the English Premier League, and European club soccer as a whole, I don't get the transfer system. Maybe this is coming from an Arsenal fan that watched his favorite player (Cesc Fabregas) and his second favorite player (Samir Nasri) be sold to other teams, but I don't get it. As far as I know, they were both under contract and I guess, just wanted out. Now I'm not an idiot (some may disagree), I understand how Fabregas and Nasri left, but where my knowledge lacks is knowing exactly who's available to replace them. I assume there are ways that clubs make it public who they are interested in selling and what the price is, but I am still learning the system and it confuses me. So if someone in the comments could spell it out for me, I would be grateful, or call me and idiot and show me I was just being lazy. Either will do.

Thought of the day: If a collegiate wrestler is accused of attempted rape, what rung of hell am I going to if my first thought was, 'he must not be much of a wrestler'?

Movie Monday: The Help Review

Movie: The Help

Starring: Emma Stone, Viola Davis, Bryce Dallas Howard, Octavia Spencer

Run Time: 137 Minutes

Short Synopsis: A look at what happens when a southern town's unspoken code of rules and behavior is shattered by three courageous women who strike up an unlikely friendship.


Before I start with the review of the actual movie, this movie tackles some sensitive issues, but it's a movie produced by DreamWorks under its new deal with Disney, so I was not expecting a complete accurate representation of history and neither should you. If you buy a ticket for The Help, understand that it is a work of fiction, not a documentary. It does somethings right, and somethings wrong, but don't expect it to be considered alongside Roots as an accurate depiction of White-Black relations in America.

The movie opens with the beginning of Skeeter's (Emma Stone) interview of Aibileen Clark (Viola Davis), as these two characters are the crux of the narrative. Davis' performance of the stoic, yet displeased Clark is one of the best I've seen this year. Her quiet intensity, as the maid of Stone's character best friend, should get her strong consideration for the Academy Award for Best Actress. You are glued to her every second she is on screen, and you are emotionally invested in each of her scenes, especially when she has to walk home through the White neighborhood.

Stone, once again brings her charm and top-notch comedic timing to a role that could very easily have been overshadowed by the larger than life performances by Bryce Dallas Howard (Queen Bee racist, Hilly Holbrook), and Clark's best friend and fellow maid, Minny Jackson (Octavia Spencer). But her ability to really ground a character and make her seem real, is one of the reason's this film is balanced. She never overacts, nor does she come off as boring, yet she is noticeable. The one thing that was lacking from Stone was her scene stealing ability. Her two real emotional scenes away from Davis, Spencer, and Howard really fell flat. Now, whether it was the lack of a build up, bad writing, or she had a bad day, can be debated, but despite that, it was another solid effort from the future A-list actress. She has the potential to be the next Julia Roberts.

After plodding along at a good, but not remarkable pace, the film hit its best stretch when Minny went to work for town outcast Celia Foote (the lovely, Jessica Chastain). From the moment Chastain's ditsy, well-meaning Celia began to get screen time, she stole the movie. For me, it's the little things that help steal a scene and/or a movie. From her shaking of the chicken bag to her innocently wanting to eat with Minny (which was a big no-no in 1967 Mississippi), and especially her quiet scene in the garden, Chastain just had that pitch perfect connection to a character that makes you want to follow her instead of the main story arc. She was able to do what Matthew Lillard has made a career out of.

The best compliment I can give a movie is that it made me laugh, think, and tear up, while still being entertaining. It wasn't too light for the subject matter, but it was still enjoyable enough to not feel like I was sitting through a lecture. Some may find it offensive, some may find it disheartening because it wasn't as graphic, or raw as they think all period pieces should be. To those people I say, what did you expect from a movie with Disney's imprint on it? They weren't going to show the sexual abuse some maids went through, or the fear that was instilled by the KKK during its peak around this time, they expected the audience to understand these underlying issues, and see the movie with that in mind.

The Help is a movie about the courage these maids showed in a terrible time in this country, and showed how telling their stories were a part of their own personal freedom during the Civil Rights Era.

Rating: 4 out of 5. Davis should get at least an Oscar nomination for her role as Aibleen.

TV Thursday: Idol Finale vs. SYTYCD Finale

Tonight was the finale for my favorite talent competition show, So You Think You Can Dance. SYTYCD, for short, has done a wonderful job of introducing the world of dance to those, like myself, that would have never bothered to search it out. I believe the show is the anti-American Idol.

Idol has all but killed the singing competition show, only a unique show like The Sing Off (despite being hosted by Nick Lachey) has been able to breathe fresh air into the genre. As the years have gone on, Idol has become a show that appears to be really scripted, only moments when Ryan Seacrest appears bored and ad-libs is the show fun. The opposite is true of SYTYCD, the panel's reactions and the banter with Emmy snub Cat Deeley, all seem natural and unscripted.

While this leads to awkward transitions, which Deeley (again, how hasn't she won the hosting Emmy) handles effortlessly, it also allows the show to connect with the audience in a real way. This really comes through with the feedback from the judges, minus Mary Murphy's predictable scream, SYTYCD blows Idol out of the water. For some reason Idol went very soft this year, and disrespected its audience. But executive producer, Nigel Lythgoe's, along with those of the choreographer guest judges, consistent criticisms when something isn't danced well, has helped to expand the audience because they are not underestimating its knowledge of the material.

The Finale of both shows really expose the glaring differences between the two. While Idol tries to make a spectacle out it, SYTYCD allows its contestants to shine. Instead of inviting lots of professional acts to the show, they make the show a celebration of the season, and awards the audience for watching all season by showing the best dances of the season.

What is truly weird is that Lythgoe is a exec on both shows, and you never see him attempt to bring what works on SYTYCD to Idol. From the finale, to the guest judges not only being celebrities but choreographers who actually know what to look for (the addition of Jimmy Ivoine was a start), to the inclusion of past winners helping specific contestant not the whole group, Lythgoe has so many ways to improve the highest rated show on TV. Yet, he doesn't.

In conclusion (I know, I know...this is a cop out, but it's getting close to midnight and I need to feed Gizmo), if Idol wants me to not fast-forward through most of its results show, and the judges' "critiques" as well, they need to take a cue from SYTYCD and make the show fun to watch, and less like funeral procession.

Whatever Wednesday: Youtube, Twins, and SYTYCD

Welcome to Whatever Wednesday! This day will be dedicated to small pondering, and extensions of other post. Whether it's a theory, or a need to explain a point, I will use Wednesday to clarify it. Also, this will be the day I give predictions for American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance, and in the fall, X-Factor. Wednesday will be a little more free form than the rest of the week.

So let's begin...

Youtube is great invention. It is the greatest blank canvas on the internet. You can search for nutshots, or cute cat videos, or old clips of TV from your childhood, and be enthralled for hours. It's also gave birth to the Rick Roll, and was a key cog in the Egyptian Revolution. Youtube can be anything, but the one aspect of the website that draws me in is people singing cover songs. It doesn't matter if it's good or bad, I will watch it. But just like anything else on Youtube, it has a very practical application.

Singers like Tiffany Alvord, Christina Grimmie, and Greyson Chance, and bands like Boyce Avenue have all used the site to upload their versions of popular songs, and created a fan base large enough that they can go out on tour and record albums. And they all built their popularity through sheer will and self confidence without the backing of a studio, which is the complete opposite of "singers" like Rebecca Black and whatever other auto-tuned teen that Arc Music Factory produces.

Obviously, unsigned bands posting their music on the internet is nothing new, but there's something different about watching the person sing the song that makes you feel more connected to the artist. I have listened to each artist listed above multiple times, and find myself gravitating to their covers (most notably, Alvord's acoustic work) when I have down time at work, which was something I never did with the former social network mecca for music, Myspace.

Of course, their success leads to a host of untalented teenagers posting videos of themselves singing whatever their favorite song is that day. In most cases, when a subject is over saturated with mediocre to terrible content, it drowns out the actual talent.

Surprisingly, the opposite is true in this case, and those terrible covers just highlight how good singers like Alvord are. So maybe Justin Bieber's story is not one in a million, but more of a guideline on how to get noticed on your own in the internet age.

If you have not, I suggest checking out each singer and/or band that I have listed above (Alvord and Boyce Avenue's "Jar of Hearts" cover for starters), and have fun clicking on all the similar links Youtube gives. Who knows, you may be watching the next Bieber, or the next William Hung, but one thing is for sure, you'll enjoy it.

Thought of the day: Do guys that fantasize about threesomes with twins, realize it's actually incest?

SYTYCD Prediction: First off, Melanie should win, and I think she will. The surprise tomorrow night will be that Sasha will finish third. Also, look for my review and thoughts on the series as a whole on TV Thursday.

My order of finish: Melanie, Marko, Sasha, Tadd. What's yours?

DVD Tuesday: It's Kind of a Funny Story

There are always movies that slip under the radar either due to bad marketing or a low budget. I hope to use this blog to expose some movies that you may have missed, but need to see.

Movie: It's Kind of a Funny Story

Starring: Emma Roberts, Zach Galifianakis, Keir Gilchrist

Released Date: September 26th, 2010

IMDB Tagline: A clinically depressed teenager gets a new start after he checks himself into an adult psychiatric ward.


It's Kind of a Funny story is really a movie about character, and less about plot. It's set in a mental ward of a New York hospital, and 90% of the movie takes place there, so it allows for a lot of development for each of our main characters. Bobby, played by the extremely talented Zach Galifianakis, looks out of place at first because he isn't your prototypical mental patient. He seems wise, calm, and more like he's on vacation then getting treatment. The subtle changes are wonderfully expressed by Galifianakis as he steals the movie. Galifianakis's charisma sells the audience on the Bobby character, but his underrated acting skills allow his arc to seem natural. His performance strengthens my theory that most comedic actors can give top level dramatic performances but most dramatic actors can't perform well in comedic roles. Dramatic actors get the grade-school gold star for effort, while comedic actors get Oscars. Best example is Tom Hanks, but that theory will be delved into another day.

But the heart of the movie is carried by Keir Gilchrist and Emma Roberts. The love story between the two teenage patients is both sweet and heartbreaking. Gilchrist and Roberts are pitch perfect in the roles. There's never a moment when you think, 'Oh, she would never go for him' or vise versa. Despite his solid performance, it's Roberts' vulnerability as Noelle that is the standout. Even though her screen time was less than her co-stars, Gilchrist and Galifianakis, she had me anticipating her next appearance. I do believe DNA plays a role in one's ability to be a top level actor and with her father (Eric Roberts) and aunt (Julia Roberts) already highly respected actors, it's only a matter of time before she is thought of as a leader of young Hollywood with the other Emmas -- Stone and Watson.

If you couldn't tell by my review, I highly recommend this movie, especially for readers who enjoy good writing and directing over plot heavy stories. It's not for people who need their movies to be depressing and raw. The story is lighter than say, One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest, but I don't believe the story is meant to show Craig (Gilchrist) is in any danger like Jack Nicholson's R.P. McMurphy in Cuckoos Nest, but rather that he's in his own head, and the ward gives him some prospective on his life. He meets people with real problems, and realizes that his life is not so bad -- a lesson most teenagers should learn.

Recommendation: Definitely rent this movie. It's worth a look.

Movie Monday: Concerts on the Big Screen

With this week's release of Glee the 3D Concert spectacular money grab or whatever its called, I thought about the new phenomenon that popped up in recent years. The snowball began with the Miley Cyrus 3D movie, which lead to the Jonas Brother, then, naturally to Justin Bieber. I have to admit, to Bieber's credit, his movie was actually watchable if you didn't like his music because his story is one of those amazing once in a lifetime occurrences.

While the 3D aspect of these "movies" is new, the concept of filming a concert and the charging a fee to watch it is nothing new -- especially in my family. There is probably a VHS of the famous New Kids on the Block pay-per-view concert (along with a few Wrestlemanias) from 1990 stashed somewhere in my childhood home. The teeny boppers of their day had their legions of fans just like Bieber and Cyrus, including one especially obsessed sibling of mine. So shelling out money to watch a concert outside of an arena is not a new phenomenon.

So, why the sudden uptick these types of movies?

The obvious answer is money. Disney, and Nickelodeon to a lesser extent, is a teen idol making machine. They are essentially the golden era movie studios of today. Each performer has to be able to sing, dance and act. OK, so maybe it's just two out of three. While each performer is talented, they are processed through the machine and then discarded when they are too old. At Disney, there was Cyrus, then Selena Gomez, then Demi Lovato and now, Bridget Mendler. And Nick has Miranda Cosgrove, Victoria Justice, and those two special kids dancing. So these concert movies are a classic strike while the irons hot business decision.

But the real issue is that pre-teens have become more obsessed with these stars then the were back in the late 80s/early 90s. Sure, both generations bought the pins, stickers, magazines, puzzles, and whatever other kind of merchandise is for sale. But with the age of the Internet, kids can sit on their computers all day and obsess over whichever star is their favorite. It becomes scary (and lucrative) when the obsession is part of anti-social behavior because the kids become mini hoarder and will watch or buy just about anything involving their crush. I'm no psychologist, but 20 years ago, girls (and boys in some cases) would gather in a friend's bedroom and discuss which member of the band they liked best, or which pop stars hair style they wanted, and that was good because at least there was a chance they were socializing outside their bedroom and computer.

I know it's ironic that I discuss my concerns with sitting and reading things on the Internet, while I write a blog, but reading things on the Internet is not the problem, it's the constant need to watch, say, all things Bieber. Personally, I'm afraid it becomes an addiction, one which the movie companies feed into by creating these concert movies.

Now I may be completely wrong and people were just as obsessed and addicted to Tiffany or Debbie Gibson like they are with Bieber and Gomez. But it feels more dangerous and emotional now. Maybe it's because I grew up during the NSYNC and Britney Spears era, and I didn't feel that the girls I knew were as obsessed as my four-year-old niece is with Bieber. As long as these movies are successful, they will continue to be released. They only way they will stop is if parents decide that they don't want to shell out almost $100 to see something that could be cheaper live. But I bet today's kids wouldn't like a live concert as much because it is not on a screen of some kind.

Sports Friday: Culture Change in Sports Towns

I have gone to baseball games my whole life. Starting in the now-demolished Veterans Stadium and continuing at beautiful Citizens Bank Park. When I was younger, I'd go to the park and watch the Phillies any chance I got. I never worried about the team's record (usually terrible) or who was pitching (usually terrible). The only care I had was keeping score and hoping that the Phils would actually win a game.

I cheered my heart out for the likes of Ricky Otero, Kevin Sefcik, Mike Grace, Robert Person, Omar Daal, and Rico Brogna to give my team a lead. Then the 9th inning would arrive, and if they were lucky to have the lead, out would march the closer du jour. Whether it was Jose Mesa, Heathcliff Slocumb, Mark Leiter, or Jeff Brantley, I would still believe we would win. But alas, we usually didn't.

Rooting for the Philadelphia Phillies from 1994 to 2000 was only for a masochist. Then, 2001. Many Phillies fan don't look back on this season as the turning point for the franchise, but in many ways it was the first brick on the road to the golden era. Despite the fact that the team was nowhere near worthy of a playoff spot, they took the Braves to the last week of the season before giving in to the inevitable. Even though that team ultimately failed, they created the spark that eventually rekindled Philadelphia's love of baseball. That spark didn't start the fire until the team signed Jim Thome (the flint?) and ushered in the Phillies place as a contending team.

Now you may be asking, why the walk down memory lane? or I don't care about the Phillies, why should I keep reading? Well, I believe this story is one that any team with a struggling baseball town can be inspired by. Sure, not every team will have the resources to assemble a $175 million dollar payroll, but the idea that all it takes is one successful season in a baseball market (Pittsburgh, I'm looking at you) to rekindle the love for the sport, is universal.

As I watch the Pirates from a far and see the passion that my friends from the Pittsburgh area are showing for the first time since I met them,  it's eerily similar to that 2001 season. A band of misfits who are playing above their heads, but most likely will fall short of the goal. My advice to Pirates fans is to enjoy this season, don't get frustrated if they don't win the division, and most importantly, keep going to the ball park. The only way to change the culture of a losing organization is to support them when they are doing well, whether you believe they will make the post season or not. If you need a point of reference, look at Penguins. Sure, they drafted three franchise players during their down years (something the Pirates haven't done), and that played a part in the turnaround. But what really built that new arena in your town was fan support.

If the 2001 Phillies taught me anything, it's that the smallest spark can start the competitive fire for a franchise. So sell out your beautiful ballpark, and the winning teams should come, and eliminate the ghost of Sid Bream.

TV Thursday: The Fine Art of the Teen Drama

Yes, I watch teen dramas. Everyone who knows me, knows this. I do not hide my love for these shows as I own a few on DVD. But I do have a problem with the over-saturation of the genre killing the effect on a generation these shows can have.

There is an art to writing a teen drama. Just like other genres, you have to weigh plot, character building, and tone. But you have the added pressure of the small attention spans of the 18-34 demographic, especially in the last five years. It seems like you can't build a love story as organically anymore. The best slowly build love story was Pacey and Joey, but things were different in the 90's. It took 18 episodes to pay off the Pacey-Joey build up, but now were lucky to get to the winter hiatus. This hyper-active story telling leads to my first point.

SHORT SHELF LIFE

These current versions need to be refreshed or ended by season four. There's only so many love triangles and drug addictions that can happen to one group of friends in a short amount of time. Unfortunately, the networks only look at the ratings (as they should) and allow the stereotype to perpetuate. Shows like Gossip Girl, 90210, and to a lesser extent, Degrassi have all been on the air way too long, and their characters have grown stale. Even a favorite of mine, One Tree Hill, has jumped a family of sharks as it heads (stumbles?) into its ninth and final thank god season.

Unlike some other genres, rotting teen dramas are easy to spot. They become very plot heavy and have more twist than an M. Night Shyamalan ending. This seems to be the illness of CW shows. While season one of Gossip Girl was quite good, its been a train wreck since. Its something I like to call....

THE O.C. SYNDROME

The show-killing illness is caused when you've done a great job of establishing the characters and their background, but then you don't take the same care when introducing new characters. After failing with the new characters, you begin writing crazy situations for your mains so that the show doesn't grow stale, but you end up losing the moral center/reality you established early on. The best example is, obviously, from the O.C.

Season one of the O.C. is quite possibly be the best single season of all time, but one decision in season two contributed to the downhill slide of the series: Sandy Cohen possibly cheating on Kirsten. Some laud this as showing that not every man is perfect, but I see it as losing the show's moral compass established in the pilot. Just like every story needs a good villain, it also needs the white knight that would never be corrupted. Dawson Leery comes to mind as the perfect example.

For the O.C., that man was Sandy Cohen. Once Sandy was allowed to be corrupted (even though he never followed through), every situation he gave out advice after that didn't have the same power for the audience. And once the series lost the moral center, everything else crumbled. Remember, this story line was established after the failed creation of the Lindsey character, which lead to the blundering of the Alex character. But there is a cure...

THE REBOOT

One Tree Hill had a disastrous second season following a solidly built foundation in season one. They're O.C. Syndrome was called Anna, Felix, and angry Mouth. Felix was the most useless character to reside in Tree Hill. He was meant as a foil to Lucas and a love interest for Brooke, but he did neither well. Anna was supposed to be a love interest for Lucas, but became the show's token gay character instead. And angry Mouth didn't work because the aggressive turn for his character made him like one of the poplar kids when his purpose was to be the moral grounding post for Lucas. But credit Mark Schwahn for realizing his mistake, getting rid of the characters and using the season's final episodes to set up the reboot of the series and head into arguably the series' best season.

He reestablished Mouth as a level-headed reasonable guy, and rewarded him with his first girlfriend. But most importantly, he resuscitated the heartbeat of the show by hinting at a Naley (Nathan and Haley for those not in the know) reunion, and finally allowing Lucas to admit he loved Brooke. With those subtle course changes and without resorting to a plot device, he was able to heal his show and continue it for two more years, and then extended the shows life with a five year jump for season five. But without the Reboot, the ship would have sunk like the O.C. did after four seasons.

FINAL THOUGHTS

For every Dawson's Creek, there a Secret Life of the American Teenager. For every One Tree Hill, there's a 10 Things I Hate About You (I seriously turned it off after 15 minutes). And for every The O.C., there's a Hidden Palms. Every genre goes through a period of over saturation, but teen dramas are the only ones that insults its audience by thinking a pretty cast cast will out-do good writing.

If you want to see writing in this genre at its best, I recommend The O.C. (Season 1), Dawson's Creek (Season 3), and One Tree Hill (Season 3). Also, there's a gritter, more realistic type of teen shows that are just as great, but are much different then the shows above. But I highly recommend watching My So Called Life and Freaks and Geeks to become a more well rounded teen drama fan.

So the next time you see a pilot for a teen drama, give it a chance. Teen dramas are the one genre of television that never grows old because there will always be a new batch of teenagers. Hopefully your generation's is more Dawson's Creek than 90210. If yours is 90210, do yourself a favor, and go watch Dawson's Creek.

DVD Tuesday: Is It OK to Own a Vin Diesel Movie?

Its time for...Why Do I Own That?!!

Movie: xXx

Starring: Vin Diesel, Samuel L. Jackson, Asia Argento

How I acquired it: Purchased it the day it was released...sigh.

First off, how in God's name did this movie get a sequel? And who thought it was a good idea to cast Ice Cube in the lead? I would love to have been in on that meeting.

Anyway, back to the (better?) original. This movie is your run of the mill action-thriller. There are russians. They like vodka and techno. They want to destroy the world. They have a stupid name. And America (obviously) needs to stop them. So who does Agent Augustus Gibbons Samuel Jackson call on? The CIA? The FBI? Seal Team Six? Ghostbusters? Nope, he recruits Xander Cage, an "extreme sports athlete" who apparently is trustworthy enough that the government believes there's no way he could be seduced by money or women. Thankfully, they found the one anti-establishment rebel who is cool with keeping government secrets. Long boring story short, he saves the world in James Bond fashion, wins the heart of the sexy, eastern European double-agent (are there any others?), and kills all the marine life in Prague.

Now the $64,000 dollar question, why did I waste $20-something hard earned dollars on this "film"? Ignorance? Naivete? Maybe. But the real reason might be that I thought it was better when I was sneaking off to see it while on duty as an usher at a movie theater. But, then again I didn't buy that abortion of a boxing movie, Undisputed, or the completely forgettable (Literally, no one I know has seen this movie), FearDotCom.

Let's go through my check list. Hot Girl? Sorta. Good Writing? Haha. Good acting? Even Mr. Jackson mailed it in. Must see actress? No. So bad its good? Ding. Ding. This one definitely fits in this category, which honestly we could rename the Vin Diesel section. So I guess even mistake purchases have a purpose on your DVD rack as they remind you to rent before buy. Or give you something to watch with friends after you've finished a case (or two) of beer, and you don't feel like watching infomercials at 2 a.m.

Recommendation: Watch it high or drunk, preferably both...on Netflix instant.

Movie Monday: Must Watch Actresses List

As you may have noticed, there's a list of 5 actresses on the right sidebar. Now this isn't a shallow list that ranks the women because of their Hotness. While that does factor in, they also need to be able to act because there are hot girls in soap operas, but I'm not DVR-ing Days of Our Lives, or buying it on DVD (Do they put Soap Operas on DVD?). So enjoy the first installment of my Must Watch Actresses List.


5. Sarah Michelle Gellar

Well, it's nice to see my original favorite kick ass woman make an appearance on the inaugural list. Sarah had all but disappeared from mainstream film and TV following the alright final season of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. After appearing in the awful Grudge 2, she began working the independent scene, including the insane but must see, Southland Tales along side Justin Timberlake and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Now, she is returning to the small screen in the CW thriller, Ringer, in which she plays a dual role as twin sisters. Needless to say I will be glued to this show no matter how awful the writing or the acting of her co-stars.

4. Alexis Bledel

Wow, has Rory Gilmore grown up. After all these years, those piercing blue eyes still make me stop and watch whatever movie or episode of Gilmore Girls I happen to come across. From the first time I saw her in Tuck Everlasting to my anticipation to see the Conspirator, I will watch her in anything including an embarrassing amount of viewings of The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants (you may see two of her three co-star appear on this list at some point). She has a new movie about two teenage assassins with The Lovely Bones' Saoirse Ronan, in which Bledel looks to add action (and a new level of fandom of yours truly) to her resume.

3. Rachel Bilson

I watched the O.C. Yes, the whole series. Even that god awful fourth season with Hercules. And the reason I kept coming back episode after episode: Summer Roberts. Bilson has kept me tuned in to many movies and TV shows that I wouldn't have thought twice about. For example, 2006's The Last Kiss (really, it's been five years) was a tolerable movie, but I would have surely turned it off if Bilson's gorgeous smile never appeared on screen. With her new project from O.C. creator Josh Schwartz, Hart of Dixie, scheduled to premiere in the fall, I will finally be getting my weekly fill of Summer again.

2. Dianna Agron

Have I watched Glee? Yes. Will I admit it if you asked me? Maybe. Thankfully for my manhood, Agron starred in the respectable, I am Number Four, with Timothy Oly-fantastic, and future member of this list, Teresa Palmer (ah, accents). The smokey voice (I love a girl that's perfected the art of whisper talking), the stunning green eyes, and she can actually sing. She has the rare talent to pull off the local outcast loner and the poplar cheerleader, and not look out of place. The only other actress I've seen pull it off convincingly was Mandy Moore. Looking forward to her next big screen project, but for now I'll just look at her GQ photo shoot.

1. Emma Stone

It will be awfully hard to unseat Emma from the top spot. She's smart, quick-witted, beautiful, and one hell of an actress. I first discovered the future A-list star on the short-lived, little known 2007 Fox series, Drive, with underrated actor, Nathan Fillion. There's not much I can say that watching Stone's acting wouldn't say better. Start with Easy A, then proceed to Superbad, House Bunny, and then finish with Zombieland. If she doesn't instantly became one of your must watch actresses, then I don't know why your reading my blog.

*This list is very fluid, and actresses will come on and off, and move up and down frequently, so this is by no means definitive. Keep your eyes on the list, and when it changes I will explain why in the Monday post.


If you disagree, please feel free to leave an actress you would put on this list in the comments, or tweet it to @offthemarktweet.

Introduction

Hello, Everyone!

This first post will explain what to expect each day from this blog. I will be updating it Monday through Friday, and each day will have a theme.

Let's start with...

MOVIE MONDAYS

Starting next week (not tomorrow), this post will either contain a review of a movie in theaters, a rant of some kind, or thoughts on a phenomenon in the movie industry.

Tomorrow's post will explain the list you see in the sidebar.

DVD TUESDAYS

This will be dedicated to three things: Reviews of popular movies that were released on DVD/Blu-ray that week, a recommendation of a previously released DVDs that you may have missed, and a special monthly segment called, "Why Do I Own That?!!," where I write about a DVD in my personal library which is either embarrassing or a guilty pleasure.

TV THURSDAYS

Obviously, this is when I discuss all things on the small screen. There will be reviews of new series, recommendations of current, cancelled, or classic series and a special split post titled "How Did/Didn't that show get cancelled?" Also, within each post I will dedicate a section for the rant/observation/opinion of the week. Sort of like Jerry Springer's final thoughts.

SPORTS FRIDAY

I will lead you into the weekend with my thoughts on the sports stories of the past week, and a look ahead at the week to come.

When college football begins, I will also include my "Game of the Week." A segment which will discuss and predict the most noteworthy contest of the week, and will continue through March Madness, covering only college athletics (except the Super Bowl, of course).

The weekend will be for special posts or for answering questions for you, the loyal readers. Also, look out for the podcast that will be added for Sunday in the near future!

No, I didn't forget Wednesday. If you read the poll below, I'm allowing you to vote on it. The first Wednesday post will be for the week of the 8th.

Finally, I hope you decide to come along on this journey with me as I trek into the world of blogging. I look forward to reading all suggestions, questions and/or snide remarks. Also be sure to follow me on Twitter @offthemarktweet.