Thoughts on 5 New (to Me) TV Shows

1. Dickinson - I love this show so much, you guys. It totally took me by surprise - I was expecting more of a typical period piece about Emily Dickinson. But it's so much more than that! It's funny, sarcastic, original, sweet, and is filled with unexpected dance interludes (I will never get over the house party scene with everyone twerking in period costumes from the mid-1800s. One of the best scenes I've ever seen. Totally mesmerizing and HILARIOUS). I've never really given Hailee Steinfeld much attention. I feel like she's usually over-praised for mostly mediocre performances. But she fits this role really, really well. However, the supporting cast is just divine - especially Ella Hunt and Anna Baryshnikov (who has the more subtle but funny dialogue). I've only watched the first season so far because I'm trying to savor it. 

2. The Morning Show - I'm a little mixed with my thoughts on this show - overall, I don't think I liked it. But there is some really great stuff within it, so let's talk about that first! I'm a big Billy Crudup fan and he is glorious in this - just devours everyone else around him. I also think Bel Powley and Gugu Mbatha-Raw absolutely steal the show from the big three cast members. And as for those big three - both Jen Aniston and Steve Carell have some really strong scenes that they carry effectively. I like the discussion that it opens up about the "me too" movement - the people left in the wake of these accusations that have to deal with the fallout, their roles and responsibilities in ensuring their work environment is safe for all employees, their own guilt in letting toxic environments exist, etc. I also think the final three episodes of season one are brilliant. Okay...now the bad. The biggest reason that I couldn't really get into this show is because of Reese Witherspoon - both the actress and the character she portrays are just so frustrating. I've actually liked her in a few things recently like Big Little Lies and Little Fires Everywhere (she does entitled white woman very well), but most of the time I can't stand her acting. She tends to squint her eyes in very obvious ways. Angry? *squints eyes* Skeptical? *squints eyes* Confused? *squints eyes*. If you took a drink every time she squints her eyes in this you would die of alcohol poisoning (with just one episode!). I also HATE her character with a fucking passion. The whole "real woman" angle is just always so grating because it's so meaningless (what exactly is the alternative to a "real" woman?). And she's supposed to be "messy" and "be the narrative real women are living" because apparently "real" women are messes? Fuck off with that nonsense. And I find it really hard to believe that a young audience would connect with this character; she's still a privileged white woman in her mid-40s (I'm pretty much describing myself - and I definitely don't think young people connect with me). So basically, what I'm saying is that she really ruins the whole show for me since she's a huge part of the series. Also, every episode leading up to the last three really drags everything out for an unnecessary length of time. 

3. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel - I kept procrastinating watching this show for no real reason other than it seemed...annoying? I'm a fan of The Gilmore Girls (although not as big of a fan as some of the hardcore fans) - it's such a well-written show, with some really great colorful characters, so I knew that I would probably like this, but it still seemed to irk me in some way. But, I'm really glad to say that I was so wrong. I loved it from the very first second I hit 'play'. It's really witty, sarcastic, rebellious, but also very lovely and sweet. And I just love Mrs. Maisel so frickin' much. I could probably write a whole essay about how amazing this character is, but I will just simply say that she's just perfect. There's many reasons I love this show but I think the two others that I want to point out is (1) the not so subtle shunning of gender roles  and (2) the fact that it's about a Jewish family, which is so weirdly rare. I had no idea how comforting it would feel (the only other show that I can think of that features a Jewish family prominently is The Goldbergs, yet it took 57 episodes for them to acknowledge that the family is Jewish - isn't that crazy? Mrs. Maisel does it in its first episode). I don't think this show is for everyone, but if it's something that you've been contemplating watching - I highly recommend it. It's just pure joy. 

4. You - UGH THIS SHOW. I was harassed into watching this by a co-worker who also has become like a little sister to me (she actually doesn't work with me anymore and has moved to Florida, which is devastating because I'm terrible at keeping in touch with people, but I am really going to try this time because she's one of the best humans I've ever encountered). She's about 15 years younger than me and we have very different tastes, but she kept insisting that this very terrible show is "SO GOOD". It's definitely not. Yet, it's one of those trainwreck type shows that I just can't look away from. I watched the first 5 episodes in one sitting (which is super rare for me - 3 episodes is usually my max unless they are 30 minute episodes). So, in case you don't know what the show is about, it's about an obsessive stalker, but the show is told through his perspective. It's actually a good concept to see how manipulators think - usually they have convinced themselves that they are the good ones and that is exactly the case here. He truly believes that he's helping the woman that he's become obsessed with. I think I would actually like it if it had better actors, better dialogue, and if it just wasn't so trashy. Penn Badgley was always the worst part of Gossip Girl (and I was always a big fan of that trashy show. Although, I really want to watch it again because there is no way in Hell the reveal of "Gossip Girl" works logically). I wish he played this character with a little more charm because he just seems so skeevy from the beginning - it's hard to believe that any woman would fall for that. Also, none of the plot would work if this stupid girl had window coverings on her first level NYC apartment. I actually looked into it because it's just that dumb - she undresses, masturbates, has sex all in front of an uncovered window. The creator's response to people asking about this very questionable plot device is that "she's too poor and that she's on a quiet street" which is absolute bullshit. She shops for a bed and questions if she should get a Queen or King size - so she has enough money to buy window coverings and even if she didn't, she surely can afford a sheet to tack up? Or tape some fucking newspaper to your windows! There is just no excuse. And it's NYC - there are no quiet streets. So basically, they needed a convenient way for this guy to stalk her so they were like "oh hey let's just have him watch her from right outside her window". It's just so dumb. Plus, as mentioned, the dialogue is so cringey - "they say girls with daddy issues are really good in bed" might be the worst line I've heard in a while. It's all absurdly terrible, but I am totally going to keep watching it. Fuck my life. 

5. The Alienist - I've only watched a few episodes so far and it's not really grabbing me - it reminds me a lot of Ripper Street (which is a show that I liked but I started to get bored by it probably around the third season, so it became more of a chore to watch). However, the cast in this is really, really great - Luke Evans, Daniel Bruhl and Dakota Fanning are all terrific. It's also very gruesome and I like the little details in every episode - it forces you to pay attention. I hope that it picks up a little bit, though. 

Thoughts on 5 New TV Shows

1. The Queen's Gambit - Ummmmm....I don't get it?? It's a good show. Well-made. Wonderful lead performance from the always great Anya Taylor-Joy. But, how is it so universally adored? When it came out - literally, EVERYONE I know talked about it. Of all ages and backgrounds (I'm lucky in that I work with a very diverse group of people so I get a lot of varying opinions all in one place). I thought the praise was so weird because it doesn't look like something that is universal, instead it looked...pretentious - I mean, it's about Chess. I don't have anything against Chess, but it's just not my thing. It seems this show revived a lot of love for the game, but for me, it still seems like a very boring game (and I love games - but mostly card games). I found this series the same - very boring. And it's soooo repetitive and predictable. There are a few really great scenes, and again, Anya is great. Plus, it just has like a "cool" retro vibe to it, and I think that has a lot to do with people mistaking it for greatness. 

2. WandaVision - I was not looking forward to watching this - I'm very over Marvel, but I'm still somehow invested in watching this next phase (how did they manage that? I think it's this feeling of not wanting to be left out of what everyone is talking about. It's not like I ever join the conversation, but it's just a nice feeling to have). This surprised me, though. It's super cute with the way it goes through the decades by utilizing popular sitcoms from those decades. It's different and strange, and surprisingly original. Elizabeth Olsen SHINES in every decade - she is just wonderful. By the third episode, I was fully excited by what was next only to be severely disappointed by the fourth episode. It feels so unnecessary to explain what's going on so...quickly? I prefer to keep guessing, I guess. But instead, we were all forced to watch this episode of exposition and explanation, and now I've sort of lost interest in it all. Hopefully, the next episode will fix things. 

3. Defending Jacob - I guess this isn't exactly "new" new, but it's new to me (and it just came out last year. TV is just moving too quickly). I like the story of this, but it's not exactly original. I kind of assumed how it would end (and I was right). There's still some good stuff - Jaeden Martell is a good little actor. Chris Evans is better than usual (although his Boston accent comes and goes as it pleases, which could have been done on purpose since it seems thicker when he is talking to certain people, but I don't believe that Evans is that good of an actor to plan that out. Sorry, not sorry. Also, I totally forgot that he's FROM Boston, so my initial impressed reaction to his accent is revoked). There's also some bad stuff - specifically all of the scenes in which Evans is being interrogated. They are just really boring scenes, but also there is NO light. It's all side lit by "natural" light through the windows, but it takes place in an official building - there would be lights on in the room! Did they think it made the scenes more mysterious or suspenseful (let's make the room dark to symbolize how "dark" this story is. Fucking idiots). The story is also really dragged out to a frustrating degree - it could have been 2 episodes shorter by cutting a lot of the repetitive melodrama. I do want to read the book now, though, so that's a plus! Although, it's taken me a whole month to read 200 pages of The Goldfinch (it's great, but I just find it so hard to focus on reading at the moment). 

4. The Great North - There's only been two episodes, so far, but it's really cute. From the creators of Bob's Burgers so I had high hopes (which doesn't always work out - I tried watching that Central Park show and I made it through two episodes. The singing. I can't take the singing. It's all so bad.). This has a cute premise and some great voice actors - Nick Offerman, Jenny Slate, Will Forte etc. There has also been some great visual gags and laugh out loud jokes - which is very reminiscent of Bob's Burgers. My favorite is the Pittsburgh Steelers joke. I laughed for like 5 minutes. I'm excited for more!

5. Lupin - This show is spectacular - on par with Killing Eve, for me and that's saying A LOT. I never even heard of it, but it was recommended to me on Twitter when I asked about some new shows to watch. I saw Omar Sy in the cast and immediately put it at the top of my list. It's just so much fun and it moves really quickly, which makes it very easy to binge watch (I watched the first episode right before bed, then watched the other four episodes the next morning). And, as expected, Omar Sy is DELIGHTFUL. He should get an Emmy for his smile alone. His smile is just infectious. The story is a basic crime caper mystery built around the famous "gentleman thief" Lupin, but the way they tell it feels fresh and exciting. On a side note: when did Netflix decide to auto dub foreign language projects? I didn't know the series was in French, I just thought there was something wrong with the sound synching at first. I kept restarting it, like an idiot. I had to go to the settings and change it to "original language" and add the English subtitles. Does it do that for everything now? Because that fucking sucks. 

Thoughts on 5 New TV Shows

1. A Teacher - There are some things I really like about this limited series  - first, I absolutely adore Kate Mara. I think she deserves so much more credit than she gets, and she's excellent here in a very unlikeable role. Second, I appreciate that they take a very "icky" subject and give it depth and layers - nothing in life is black and white. I'm not referring to her actions - which are very clearly disturbing. Instead, I'm impressed with the way they are showing his side of the story and how his life is effected (vs how people assume his life was effected). And I do think they do a good job of showing her side, as well - even if it doesn't change the fact that she's a terrible person (being bored with your life is no excuse for her actions, but I think it's this innate sense of needing/causing "drama" to stimulate one's world that isn't often explored in a realistic way like this is). And third, I'm not finished with the series yet (I think I have 3 episodes left), but I love how quickly it's paced. The episodes are short and concise with very little filler, there are time-jumps that push the story forward, and it never really ends the way you expect. I'm interested to see if they end the series in the way that I think they will (which would be very controversial, but also realistic and explores more of the "grey" of life). There are also a few things I don't care for - a big one is the over-use of 90s/00s hip-hop songs (17 year old kids definitely don't listen to "Big Pimpin'" - a song that is 20 years old). It feels so forced, which contradicts everything else about the show. I'm also not the biggest fan of Nick Robinson; he reminds me of Ansel Egort, minus the charisma. He also needs a haircut, stat. 

2. Truth Seekers - This is a big disappointment for me. I just have really high hopes for something created by Nick Frost and Simon Pegg - and this is just sort of blah. I was entertained for some of it, but I kept getting sidetracked by other things while watching it. The plot is actually great (they are paranormal investigators - as a comedy that should work really well). And I adore the cast - especially when my favorite, Kelly Macdonald, shows up! Where has she been? I haven't seen her in much lately. Anyway, overall, it's cute - I would watch more. I think I was just hoping for more of a laugh out loud comedy. Although, every scene with Malcolm McDowell is hilarious. What a legend. 

3. Big Sky - I'm very angry with this show. And I'm about to write about a *MAJOR Spoiler/plot twist* within the first episode - so stop reading if you want to be surprised. The show is advertised as a new show STARRING "the sexiest man on the planet, Ryan Phillippe" (I may have added the sexiest man on the planet part, but it's true), and then he gets shot in the fucking head at the end of the pilot. And like, really shot in the head, no way is he coming back from that - he's dead, no question. That's some bullshit, right there. He has shown up in the next few episodes in very short flashback scenes (and credited as "guest starring"), but the stars of the show are definitely a bunch of no-names, so I really feel like they tricked a lot of people into watching it (i.e every girl who was obsessed with Ryan since 1997). Actually, I obviously recognize many of the other actors (especially the two teenage girls - one from Little Fires Everywhere and the other from Gotham &The Goldbergs). But, it's some damn fine false advertising and it really upsets me. I've watched another 3 or 4 episodes and so far it's been really boring (and actually the "twist" in the pilot about the sheriff is obvious even from the commercials and literally nothing else about it has surprised me - it is really disappointing). I'll keep watching this season, but if it doesn't actually DO something, then I won't be watching anymore (unless they do a prequel? with Ryan's character alive and solving a previous mystery?). 

4. Your Honor - I've watched the first two episodes so far, and it is GOOD. I couldn't really figure out how they were going to take this story and make us sympathize with this father/son - if you don't know what the story is about: the kid kills someone in a hit & run and his father, a judge, uses his power to cover it up. Absolutely vile. BUT, they actually make it work (I won't spoil how, but basically he isn't saving his son from being rightfully charged with murder, he's saving him from being murdered....intriguing...right? WATCH IT.). The second episode makes everything even messier by introducing a fairly innocent individual who gets caught up in this crime - bringing even more depth to the story. Bryan Cranston is spectacular (as per usual). I'm so excited to see where this story goes (and hopeful that everyone gets what's coming to them). 

5. Small Axe - I'm not sure if this is considered a bunch of short films or a limited series? I've looked into it and is seems like people are in two very different camps. I guess we'll find out once it starts getting submitted for awards (will it be submitted for Oscars or Emmys???). To me, it's a limited series/anthology, similar to Monsterland. I feel like there is a superiority complex with people insisting it's a film, as if being seen as tv is lesser than, but tv has surpassed films in so many ways, so that's a weird take, in my opinion. So far, I've watched the first 3 "episodes" and I loved one, liked one, and was indifferent on one (Lovers Rock > Red, White and Blue > Mangrove). I think this might be a controversial take because I've seen a LOT of love for Mangrove and I don't understand - it's a standard boring courtroom drama. The acting is great, but ultimately that's all I remember about it. Red, White and Blue felt more essential to me, with current world events - I like the dichotomy of wanting to be a police officer while also wanting to change everything about what the title represents. I also loved the story with the father demanding his day in court. It's just a much stronger story - and again, the acting is great (John Boyega is finally in a role that he seems passionate about). But, Lovers Rock is like nothing I've ever seen. It's basically just a filmed house party but there is so much happening in the small moments. It feels raw, genuine, and sensual. I couldn't take my eyes off of it. And I'll never forget it. I do feel a bit disappointed as a whole, though, simply because I haven't been absolutely stunned by any particular scene yet (which is essential with a Steve McQueen project - even with a film I didn't care for like Widows, there is still a scene that I was stunned by). But there's still two more episodes to go, so here's hoping!

Thoughts on 5 TV Shows

1. The Third Day - Seriously boring. There are elements that are brilliantly done, but overall it moves at the pace of a Terrence Malick movie (that is not a compliment). It also reminds me a little of Twin Peaks with just really odd characters, confusing narrative, and mystery that feels like it's going nowhere (I do like Twin Peaks, though, but definitely not as much as others seem to). I really, really, really do love Jude Law though (I still haven't watched The Young Pope thing. I feel like every time I go to catch up on a tv show, there is something new to watch instead of going back to something slightly older. This is also why I haven't watched Succession yet). But he wasn't the highlight - that would be Naomie Harris. Her featured episode titled "The Mother" is the strongest of the series (although it's weird that they seem to think the ending would be a surprise. I assumed that's who they were from the first 2 seconds of the episode). The last episode is also strong, but Jude's hair is really wild and completely distracted me from the conclusion of the story. I honestly have no idea how it ends. But I'm hoping that it was truly the end and they keep it as a Limited Series and it's done so that I don't have to watch any more. 

2. Ratched - I definitely like this more than the other Ryan Murphy Netflix shows. I know he's been getting a lot of hate lately (from myself included) but there is no denying that he has super cool ideas and intentions. Sometimes they just go too far, or become almost a parody of what his brand is. And his brand is obviously to go too far, so, in that, he's pretty successful (even going back to the beginning - Nip/Tuck was fucking crazy). I like the idea of giving back stories to iconic characters - it's more creatively inspiring than just remaking something, in my opinion. I am also surprised at how Hitchcockian it feels - there are certain scenes that feel like they were literally copied from classic Hitchcock scenes. I think the acting is a little off-putting. EVERYONE over-acts except Sarah Paulson (who is perfect, as per usual). I do like that Murphy stays true to his cast and keeps casting people in unpredictable roles (and they usually end up surprisingly wonderful). It always makes me a little sad, though because I feel like if Cory Monteith were still alive, he would surely have taken part in some of these projects (I could picture him specifically in Hollywood). Ugh...I miss him so much. 

3. The Right Stuff - Overall, exactly what I was expecting. I thought it would be like a wholesome, kind of cheesy, "fluffy" dramatic series about the Mercury Seven. And even with all of the cheating stuff, it's still feels like an extremely wholesome show. It's a Disney+ show, so it's just not the kind of show that's going to dive deep into the emotions and possible darkness of these men. Plus, the whole astronaut wives thing was already done (the show was literally called The Astronaut Wives Club. I didn't watch it because it sounded so boring.). The entire reason I watched this show is because of Patrick J. Adams and Jake McDorman. I love them both so much and they shine equally in every episode. The only thing I've really connected to, though, is the scenes with the niece they've adopted because her mother dies. Him showing her how to raise the American flag is done really well (I almost teared up. Almost.). I hate that it's released as a weekly show. I appreciate the weekly series format still, and I rarely binge more than three episodes of the same show at a time, but I feel if we are paying extra for these streaming services then they should release it all at once and let the audience choose how they want to consume it. 

4. Monsterland - I love the anthology idea (I'm still thinking about certain episodes of The Romanoffs), but this series is really inconsistent. I absolutely love 2 episodes, and another one is solidly strong, but that's only 3 episodes - out of 8. The other 5 episodes are...just awful. I like that the running theme is about actual monsters (like literal "monsters", and also, more importantly, human "monsters"), but I also think the fact that it is all based in reality keeps the idea really strong. Each story is told quietly and is very character driven (I guess it's kind of like Black Mirror, but more realistic even thought it's about monsters, which is weird). I'll focus on the good episodes (for now...) because I'm hopeful that if it continues, it tells more stories like this. The best episode is quite clearly the third episode "New Orleans, Louisiana". It's downright bone-chilling. First, Nicole Beharie gives an Emmy-worthy performance. It's stunning and I will remember it forever. Her denial at her son's accusations (and truth) is just heartbreaking - when he says "he knew you would keep your mouth shut". UGH...it just hits so fucking hard. I'm emotional just thinking about it. The other superb episode is "Plainfield, Illinois". Taylor Schilling is great, and I just really like that it's a love story centered around someone who is bipolar. Again, there is one bone-chilling line that I remember forever ("You're the one who left me in the bathtub"). And finally, I think the first episode featuring Kaitlyn Dever is also a strong introduction to the series. I really like her (and she's the reason I even watched this show), and she is a recurring character (I think she's in four episodes?). I wasn't a big fan of her accent, though. It sounded more like she was trying to do this Hollywood glamour type accent instead of a southern accent. Otherwise, she's great. Plus the first episode also has Jonathon Tucker! Love him. 

5. The Undoing - What an incredible pilot episode! I haven't felt this way in quite sometime (although I did recently enjoy the pilot for Lovecraft Country, but it was only really the last 20 minutes that really captured my attention). I wasn't sure what this show was about - just that it starred Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant and I thought that was an interesting combo. I didn't see any commercials so I had no idea that it was about a murder. I assumed, obviously, that he was cheating on his wife with the weird woman because he left "on an emergency medical situation" (he's a doctor), quite soon after the woman left. But I was not expecting her to die (and very brutally). Something about it reminds me of Damages - which is one my favorite series ever. Nicole Kidman has one of the most consistent resumes of any actress - she has had at least one project (and sometimes multiple projects) every year for like 25 years. And they are (mostly) good! Plus, she sings the opening credit song and it is so beautiful. I've always liked Hugh Grant, too (he's made some mistakes in his past life, but there are so many people doing so many worse things and getting away with it). He's quite good at bringing the charm to any role. Also, I like the mystery about the weird girl - she's definitely spoken about as "weird", but I think we'll discover that she has reasons behind her "weirdness" (although I don't think her breastfeeding in front of a group of women in a house is weird? And it's disturbing that so many were uncomfortable, but I think they will delve into that a bit more too). My other thoughts are that it's filmed beautifully - the shot from the outside with Nicole standing inside the high-rise building is so stunning. And Nicole's wardrobe is to die for (haha get it To Die For? I'm hilarious). But seriously, that rainbow pleated dress is God-tier. The fact that I have so much to say and it's only been one episode is really exciting to me. I can't wait for more. 

Thoughts on 5 New TV Shows

 1. Little Fires Everywhere - I was not expecting to like this because for some reason, it reminded me of Big Little Lies (a show that I don't really care for). But, I found this miniseries very intriguing. There's a lot to criticize - the overly convenient plot, the awful casting of the younger versions of the main characters, the fact that *spoiler alert* the main character isn't actually poor (how very insulting). BUT, I think overall, it has a lot of great ideas - specifically, it shows the "grey" of white liberals/feminists trying to do the right thing, but having no clue what the right thing is. It's very explicit in its critique of white privilege, entitlement, and ignorance. The daily micro-aggressions are so in your face, but I think that's necessary right now. It's amazing to me how oblivious so many people are to their own racist and ignorant thoughts. There is a really great scene with Kerry Washington and one of Reese's daughters (sorry, I'm too lazy to look up what their character names are) in which she tries to explain the complexities of racism that will be burned into my memory forever. I think they did a great job of setting it in the 90s, but also still maintaining a certain amount of modernity and relevance to today. The music is phenomenal (I listen to the cover of "Sex and Candy" on repeat). Kerry Washington is phenomenal (as per usual). I'm not the biggest fan of Reese Witherspoon, but she has this entitled white woman down to a tee. I'm furious that Pacey is in this with teenage children because that, once again, reminds me that I'm old and I'm now attracted to guys with grown-ass children. It's really distressing.

2. Mrs. America - I enjoyed this very much, but my first thought after the first episode was "I bet Gloria Steinem hates this" and sure enough, she does (look it up - she destroys the series). I don't really agree with her (on this) because I've witnessed feminists disparaging other women (conservatives, stay-at-home mothers, etc.) firsthand, and I think it's an important part of feminist history. Her argument is that it's hurting feminism to show the clash between feminists and conservative women as cat-fights, but then she also argues that Phyllis Schalfly was inconsequential to them, because she was just a cover for the anti-feminist movement led by men (basically stating that her actions never hurt them. Which isn't true? And also really passive-aggressive). I adore Steinem with all my heart (seriously, I saw her speak live at an anniversary for Ms. Magazine - I think it was the 35th anniversary? It was thrown by the Feminist Majority Foundation and it was a highlight of my life), but she's not perfect. And I don't think she watched the whole series (I think she states she was given a few episodes as previews) because this is addressed with Schalfly - it shows her internal struggles with feminism and conservatism. It also very clearly states the irony of her fighting against the ERA, when she is in fact, not a stay-at-home mom. She's a lobbyist. And when they take down her supporters with the "Congrats! You're a working girl" scene, I almost died of pure joy. I absolutely do still think women are holding other women back. Steinem's argument is that this is a naive way of thinking, and that it is a gaslighting effect - it's really men holding back women's rights, but we just blame women. But when I look at reality - I see a lot of women being unsupportive. Even right now, with everything going on with Covid. At my work, we have so many working moms who weren't able to work because they didn't have childcare (and are now home schooling) - the responses from some of my female co-workers was downright disgusting ("that's their problem, they chose to have kids" is the basic attitude, instead of having any empathy. If I tried to accommodate a mom with scheduling, I was told it "wasn't fair"). I'm sorry, but feminism is taking a wrong turn if it isn't including moms (both working and stay-at-home). Anyway, enough about my thoughts on feminism and more about the series! The cast is a work of art. Cate Blanchett is outstanding - clearly set up as a villain, yet we see her perspective and life more than the rest of the women. That Emmy is hers for the taking. However, I think Rose Byrne (as Ms. Steinem) is really inspired casting - I'm a HUGE fan of Byrne, but I never would have thought of her for this role. She's so good, and seems to be largely overshadowed by the rest of the cast, which is a shame. The supporting cast includes Uzo Aduba, Tracey Ullman, Margot Martindale, Sarah Paulson (and many, many more). There are some really amazing scenes - the one previously mentioned about being a "working girl" is probably my favorite scene in television this whole year. I also loved the scene where Brenda (played by Ari Graynor - almost unrecognizable) tells her husband (Adam Brody!) that she cheated on him with a woman. The way he brushes it off and is not threatened by it is fascinating, and so subtle in its sexism. Overall, I liked the series a lot - and I even binged it, which is rare for me to do. Sorry, Gloria. 

3. The Great - Honestly, I'm sorry for liking this show too. It's fucking ridiculous, but, oh, SO GOOD. It's super trashy, hilarious, and "occasionally true" as the opening credits states. First, I am in awe of Elle Fanning. She plays this role with a certain youth and naivete, while also still being really powerful and intelligent. If the show, itself, received better reviews, I think she would have gotten more awards talk. Also, Nicholas Hoult is really hilarious as Peter. They have great chemistry (of not having any chemistry) and make the show a joy to watch. Hoult delivers some of the really ridiculous lines with such ease, that it somehow makes them not so ridiculous. It's really fascinating and watchable (I binged this one too! I think I watched it all in 2 days). Some of the lines cut through to the heart too (when she states that God mad her for "greatness" and he instantly responds with ease "then why did he make you a woman?" is just so perfectly done). I like that they play with the truth and that it's a show that is "genre-bending" - it feels modern with the dialogue and diverse cast. I'm really excited for season 2 (but I kind of hope that's it, I'm ready to see her fuck shit up and take over - I don't need it to be dragged out). 

4. Making the Cut - I'm so disappointed with this. I have been watching Project Runway since the very beginning (I think it's been 16 years!). And I love every single season. It's probably the only reality program that I've consistently watched (I'm not really a fan of reality tv, but I have been guilty of watching any modeling reality show - ANTM, specifically, and A Simple Life because Nicole Richie is hilarious). I kept watching the show even after Heidi and Tim left, and I thought I would miss them more - but honestly Karlie Kloss and Christian Siriano have brought some much needed life and youth to the series. I was excited for this new series though because I do love both Heidi and Tim and I wanted to see their new venture, but unfortunately this show is a gigantic snoozefest. It took everything away from what made PR great - and that is the actual CHALLENGE. I don't even understand the point of each episode - they just create two looks each time (a runway and a wearable look - I had a very difficult time distinguishing the two with almost EVERY SINGLE LOOK). I also don't like the way they judge - they basically talk shit to the designer and degrade them, if the designer "convinces" them that they are great, then they are "making the cut". And the judges can change their mind in the moment, which is dumb - it makes it about their personality and their likability instead of their talent (which I guess I understand bc they are creating a brand, but honestly the names behind famous brands are usually not likable people - just watch PR - Nina Garcia and Michael Kors are terrifying people but they are talented). It's all very boring - and I don't even remember who won. I'll stick with Project Runway, thanks. 

5. Lovecraft Country - I've only watched the first two episodes so far, but HOLY SHIT. It's not what I was expecting. I didn't really know what it was about - I just saw massive positive reviews on twitter, and elsewhere (except EW, which gave it a C+. HUH? Are we watching the same show? The production value and acting alone make it a solid B, at the very least). Someone compared it to Green Book but better, so I was kind of expecting that. I was not expecting a Horror/Sci-fi series - so the last 20 minutes of the first episode really caught me off guard. And I am absolutely here for it. Those 20 minutes are incredible. The build-up, the tension, the release - it's just perfect. I love the beginning of the second episode, too. Things are back to "normal", but the creepiness is in every second of it. Leti's complete comfortableness with being wealthy is really perfect, too. I've seen a lot of much deserved love for Jurnee Smollett (she's been doing great work since Cosby!). Also, it's really beautiful - some really stunning shots, and Leti's wardrobe is so cool and retro, but not overdone. I just love everything about it so far, and I'm looking forward to more episodes. 

Thoughts on 5 New TV Shows

1. Hunters - A little insane, but kind of in a good way? It was really different and interesting, so that's always a plus for me. Not all of it worked, and some of it is a little problematic, but as a whole, I think it's a solid idea and it is executed very well. It's one of those examples in which the good outweigh the bad. However, some of the bad...is really bad. For example: The end is horrific. I appreciate the shock value of the twist, but, man, is it really tough to grapple with. Also, I think sometimes it went a little too far - subtlety doesn't seem to be an option (one of the episodes is titled "Shalom, Motherfucker"). There are moments of levity - some of it works really, really well (like the "Stayin' Alive" scene - I could probably watch that on repeat. Just so good.), and some of it doesn't (because it's hard to make the Holocaust light and funny, and maybe this shouldn't be a thing? I know a lot of people had the same problem with JoJo Rabbit too). A big plus, though, is the cast - Al Pacino is peak Al Pacino (take that as you will...). And Logan Lerman is incredible. I totally forgot that about him with my previous Emmy post - but I could make a solid argument for him deserving a nomination. I think I've mentioned before that I'm hesitant to like him because his mother was rude to me and made homophobic comments (she was his manager at the time, but he was a kid, so hopefully he has a better team behind him now? I'm too lazy to look into it). There is also a terrific performance by Greg Austin - just super fucking creepy and evil, nightmare inducing. He reminds me a lot of a Skarsgard brother (I thought he might be...). And lastly, Lena Olin (who will always be Mama Bristow to me). I can't say anyone else in the cast stood out, but they all worked well together (maybe Josh Radnor, but that's just because the role is so different for him, but I'm convinced someone else could have done it better). I'm super interested in what season two will look like (and who will join the cast??). 

2. Perry Mason - I remember watching the original Perry Mason reruns with my grandmother (which is where I get my love of television dramas and detective/spy stories). I thought this could be a good character to update, and I really like how they kept the integrity of the "vibe" of the original, but I'm currently on the 4th episode and it's...starting to get boring. I do love the cast, though. Matthew Rhys and Tatiana Maslany??! Like, I'll keep watching any show with those two, even if I die of boredom. It's a very classicly stylized detective story (complete with Jazz music), based in the 30s. I was not expecting it to be so graphic (with the crimes, but also with the random sex scenes) and I can't help to think that they are just thrown in there to try to hold the audiences attention? Because it's not really necessary if you have a solid story to tell. I haven't written it completely off yet - I really liked the pilot episode, but the next 3 have just been really disappointing. 

3. I'll be Gone in the Dark - What an overall heartbreaking story - obviously the original serial killer crimes are hard to process, but the fact that Michelle McNamara became so obsessed with finding the truth and getting justice for these victims that she drove herself to an unhealthy mental state (and eventually death) is just devastating. I don't much care for the True Crime genre (for many reasons - usually because I feel like it's told in a very propaganda-type way, convince the audience of "their" versions of what is true - the best example of this is with the Netflix series Making a Murderer, but also because sometimes reality is just really hard to deal with. I do like "Based on True Story" storytelling, though, but that's because it's acceptable to change the narrative, and therefore doesn't feel as "real"). However, when I read about Michelle McNamara, I had to read her book. It's more because I've developed an interest in her story though. I've always been such a big fan of Patton Oswald (was supposed to see his live stand-up earlier this year, but it was obviously cancelled), and I always love the way he talks about Michelle with such pride. Also, because the story has a somewhat "happy" ending - with them actually finding the East Area Rapist (it's super weird that the investigators were so hesitant to give her the credit - I assume because they don't want more people to be inspired to solve crimes on their own, but still - there is NO WAY that her research isn't what led them to him. JUST NO FUCKING WAY). The book is written so well - and it's so respectful of the victims, while still being extremely thorough in describing the horrific crimes (not going to lie, it's a tough read - especially if you read before sleeping, like I do). I've watched the first three episodes of this Docuseries, and so far it's good. It's pretty much exactly what I was expecting - except that I'm surprised at how much footage they have of Michelle. I'm always weirded out by that though, and then I forget that "normal" people record their lives via social media. If I died there would be absolutely no archival footage of me - maybe a few selfies and some cat pictures, but that's it. Also, it's even more devastating to watch the victims talk about their attacks than to read about it - so prepare yourself. 

4. ZeroZeroZero - Man, I had really high hopes for this - it has one of my favorite current actresses - Andrea Riseborough, and also Dane Dehaan. But it's really awful. And hard to follow. It reminds me of Narcos (with similar topic of drug smuggling but this is just on a global level), but Narcos is fantastic and this just falls flat. There's just too many plots, I think? Or maybe it was all one plot and I was just too bored to put it all together? It's hard because I don't mind subtitles at all (and I even put subtitles on for most things, even in English), but if I'm bored, it's so much harder to pay attention to the subtitles so I guess it's a lot easier to lose the plot (again, I have no problem with paying attention to Narcos, so I don't think it's me, I think it's the way this is written). I watched the whole first season, somehow, but I couldn't tell you the outcome (other than that the expected thing happens). I'm not sure if this is going to stay as a mini-series or get a second season, but I sure hope not because I don't want to watch any more. 
 
5. Hollywood - So far, not a big fan of Ryan Murphy/Netflix productions. I'm a big fan of Murphy - and typically his first seasons of tv shows are incredible (and some second seasons as well, but he ends up going off the rails after that). However, with this and with The Politician, I am incredibly disappointed. I probably like this a tad more than The Politician (it has some good moments, but overall it just tries too hard - and I hate the cast). Hollywood is interesting, for sure. The idea of re-writing Hollywood history (a very different alternate universe twist than is usually done) and also mixing real life people with fictional characters, is wonderfully realized. I just think it's weird that they focused the idea on sex-workers trying to "make it" in Hollywood. And it got very repetitive and dull by the 4th episode. I do like the cast, though (much better than The Politician), especially Samara Weaving. And the main guy (I don't know his name, but he was in a few episodes of The Politician too, and he was much stronger than his co-stars). He's like a younger Henry Cavill, but with screen presence and a personality. I hope they leave this as a mini-series, and Murphy just moves on. 

Emmy Nominations: The Good, The Bad, and The Snubbed

The Good

- The "expected" Dramas making the cut - Better Call Saul, Killing Eve, and The Crown are definitely the best Dramas currently on television (I have not seen Succession yet)

- Schitt's Creek finally getting real Emmy love (15 nominations!!). It should have been showered with awards from the beginning, but I'll take what I can get.

- A shocking but lovely nomination for What We Do in the Shadows 

- Watchmen leading the way with an astounding 26 nominations and they deserve every. single. one. of them.

- The Lead Actress in a Drama Series category - Jesus Christ, that's some fucking talent listed (although I have not seen Euphoria and I haven't been a fan of Zendaya's acting in the past - I still really, really like her). Ditto for the Supporting Actress in a Limited Series category (Jean Smart, Tracey Ullman, Toni Collette, Margo Martindale - how does one choose?)

-  The snubbing of both Ryan Murphy Netflix shows (The Politician and Hollywood), they are both terrible but the Emmys tend to love Murphy (and it's usually warranted), so I was nervous.

The Bad

- The "surprise" Dramas making the cut - I enjoyed both Stranger Things and The Mandalorian, but they are not Emmy worthy (the first season of Stranger Things maybe, but definitely not the most recent season). The Mandalorian is good, but mostly because of Baby Yoda. Although I do like that sci-fi/fantasy shows are being recognized (but I think they should have their own category!)

- I'm continuously surprised by the love for Ozark - I have not yet watched the third season, but the first two ranged from good to mediocre and have never been award-worthy, in my opinion (and don't even get me started on Julia Garner...).

- Saturday Night Live is STILL getting nominations - and 15 of them! I...just...don't understand.

The Snubbed 

- Um, Bob Odenkirk??? What in the actual fuck? I never expected a snub for him, but was expecting it for Rhea Seehorn (doesn't make it right, though). Both have given spectacular and memorable performances this year on Better Call Saul. It's downright shameful to ignore both of them.

- My favorite comedy on television right now is Better Things and Pamela Adlon is a Goddamn genius.

- Merritt Wever for Unbelievable 

- I recently started watching The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance and it is great (better than The Mandalorian), so if they are going to finally recognize sci-fi/fantasy then this should have been the way to go (plus, Taron Egerton should have gotten a Voice-Over nomination, but I also realize that I am BIASED with a capital B).

Thoughts on 5 New TV Shows

1. The Plot Against America - I love alternate history shows (The Man in the High Castle is probably the most famous recent one, and it is wonderful). This is a little less on the sci-fi side, and just straight-up tells a story as if Charles Lindbergh beats Theodore Roosevelt during the presidential election of 1940, from the point of view of a Jewish American family. It's definitely a slow burn story, and each episode is told with a significant time gap between them, so sometimes it feels like you missed something. But overall, I thought it was done really well. And the cast is absolutely wonderful - especially Zoe Kazan (who I'm usually not a fan of) and Morgan Spector (I had to look up his name because even though he is a recognizable actor from Homeland and Boardwalk Empire, I don't think I've ever known what his name was and I was surprised at how much his name does NOT match his person at all. Also, I discovered that he's married to Rebecca Hall! What a lucky man.). I'm glad that it's left as a mini-series instead of a multi-season show. I think more shows should follow this lead. It's such a better way to tell an effective story if you know how long you have to tell it.

2. Another Life - I watched this show because it seemed like it had a Battlestar Galactica vibe, with the addition of Starbuck as the main actress (Katee Sackhoff for the win!). But it's really, really cheesy. I'm not sure how I even lasted through the whole thing. It's got some great sci-fi ideas, but for some reason they also throw in these soap opera type romance plot points that are truly hard to watch (like the threesome relationship - with the girl now being pregnant, but WHICH ONE IS THE FATHER? Lol. Who cares?I want to watch some aliens fuck shit up.). It's also really stupid - the amount of times they go into "unknown" territory without a helmet, and just touch random alien stuff, is just exhausting. There's also a character named Michelle who talks like me (sadly, I regress into my natural valley girl speak far too often. I get made fun of all the time for it, but I laugh along because I DESERVE IT), but the difference is - I'M NOT A COMMUNICATIONS EXPERT (that's her actual title. I can't.). It's been renewed for a second season, and I admit that I will watch it - mostly because I'm interested in Selma Blair's storyline.

3. Normal People - I had some issues with this show, mostly because I read about the show beforehand - so expectations were made. First, and most aggravatingly, there was this notion that this show was extremely "real", but there is nothing real about pretending that Marianne isn't attractive for the first few episodes (she suddenly becomes "hot" once they are in college, but she looks...the same). It's a disgrace, and I think it's hurtful to women to portray someone that fucking stunning as someone who isn't attractive. ANYWAY. Second, I don't understand why they changed the narrative of the book about her having an abusive father? Is it because her interest in BDSM would be that much more problematic? I feel like a whole part of her story is just completely erased. I haven't read the book, but after I watched the show I read about it, and a light went on for me - like "OH, that explains so much!". As someone who had an abusive father, I can deeply relate to her psychological issues, but I didn't even make that connection while watching it. Third, is honest communication really that hard for people? I mean, all of their problems wouldn't exist if they just...talked to each other. Aside from this, I really enjoyed this show. The acting is phenomenal - and I think they did a really good job at creating characters that felt layered and flawed, but still people that you root for. It's also beautifully made.

4. Space Force - Two separate people described this show to me as "the funniest show I've ever seen". Just think about that hyperbole for a minute, try to wrap your head around it, because it just blows my mind. And the worst part is that it's funny, but I can think of probably 100 funnier television shows (maybe even more than that...). The cast is great - but most are under-utilized (I mean, the great Jane Lynch has like 10 lines spread out through the whole season). The only actors allowed to shine are Steve Carell and John Malkovich (and he's just so great. Probably steals every scene he has with his dry humor). I think they do a good job of simultaneously making fun of the "Space Force" while also explaining its importance to the future of humanity. I hesitate to say anything positive about our president, but this may be the only thing he did that wasn't awful? I mean, I can think of more important and crucial ways to spend money right now, but exploring space is still a beautiful and inspiring thing.

5. Solar Opposites - If you're a fan of Rick and Morty then you'll probably enjoy this (I like Rick and Morty just fine, but I do think it's a bit over-praised). It's an easy show to binge - I think I watched it all within 48 hours and you don't have to do much thinking. I usually love to hear recognizable voices in animated shows/movies, but Adam Goldberg's voice is almost too distinguishable. It was distracting (and I mean the kid who plays Adam Goldberg, not actual Adam Goldberg). The plot reminds me of 3rd Rock from the Sun (remember that show?! I loved it so much. Had a super huge crush on Joseph Gordon-Levitt back in the day). There is also this weird side-story that is much more interesting than the main plot that I think (and hope) will be explored more in season two.

Thoughts on 5 New TV Shows

1. Watchmen - The hype was real for this, and for the most part, I think it lives up to it. The cast is incredible. I've been a Regina King fan for years, but she really thrived in this. The standout performance, for me though, is Jean Smart. I used to watch Designing Women when I was a kid - and I used to think she was so funny, but it was a different kind of funny than what most women on television were at that time - she was smart funny and dry funny. She's been around for years on various tv shows (24, Samantha Who?), but it really wasn't until Fargo that I remembered how much I love her. The third episode of Watchmen, Jean gives an unforgettable performance - it's just sublime. The story is ambitious (maybe a little too ambitious?), but ultimately really strong. It's based around a dark day in American history - the Tulsa massacre, and how the events of something so traumatic can have decades-long consequences. I'm glad that this is just a one season show - not everything needs to be dragged out for forever.

2. The Outsider - I was nervous about this because I thought it was going to be similar to the other current Stephen King television show, Castle Rock. While the cast on Castle Rock is outstanding, the rest of the show is hot garbage. Luckily, The Outsider is far more cohesive and interesting. The mystery is really creepy and the suspense builds nicely with each episode. Ben Mendelsohn really carries the series, but I have to say, Cynthia Erivo is mesmerizing as Holly Gibney - probably one of my favorite characters on current television (no-one comes close to Villanelle, though). I was really rooting for Cynthia at the Oscars this year (obviously she wasn't going to win the Actress award because everyone had their mind set on Zellweger for some baffling reason, but she could have taken home the Song award), which would have made her an EGOT winner at the young age of 33 (if you count Daytime Emmys - which I personally think should count). Also, Julianne Nicholson is such an underrated actress. She will probably be overlooked for this performance, but she does such a great job of portraying grief and anger in a really vulnerable way. Overall, I would definitely recommend this if you are into horror/sci-fi shows - it comes to a satisfying conclusion, so I'm interested to see how they continue the story for another season.

3. The Mandalorian - I have to admit that by the time I got around to watching this I wanted to punch every single person who posted a Baby Yoda meme. And then I started watching the show, and came to the realization that I WOULD DIE FOR BABY YODA. Literally. He's just about the most adorable creature ever put on screen. Every time he appears, my heart just burst with joy. Anyway, I'm a little disappointed that Pedro Pascal keeps that helmet on for the entire season because I love him, and I kept forgetting that it was him under there. Plus, I'm not sure he's the best actor to use purely based on voice? I'm not really familiar with the extended Star Wars universe, so some of the plot went over my head, but overall I enjoyed this.

4. Devs - I'm not fully invested in this show. It keeps bouncing back and forth between being extremely predictable to what the fuck is happening/this doesn't make any sense. And I'm not sure it's going to be worth it. Also, the cast is weird - like nobody matches their role. I'm only on episode 4 so I assume (hopefully) that it will all come together cohesively, and that maybe the weird acting is done on purpose. I think I just had higher hopes for it because Alex Garland has some pretty neat sci-fi ideas. But so far, it just feels like a chore to watch.

5. Avenue 5 - This is an entertaining little comedy/sci-fi. I enjoyed it, and laughed out loud quite a few times. It's a little bit of mindless entertainment, but sometimes that's necessary - just to watch something that doesn't take too much mental energy is sometimes a blessing, especially during recent events. The cast work really well together - and even though I really don't like Josh Gad, he has some really funny dialogue to work with. I'm excited for season two - and I can see this show working for multiple seasons and growing into something great. The basics for a great show are all there.

Thoughts on 5* New TV Shows

1. Unbelievable - An absolutely heartbreaking story, with phenomenal performances from all three women - Merritt Wever, Toni Collette, and Kaitlyn Dever. The biggest success, I think, is that it's a story that is really handled with a deep care for women, and the experience of being raped. It's such a tough thing to get right. I am a certified Rape Crisis Counselor (although I'm pretty sure my certification has expired by now...), and the emotional stress of attaining the certification was so draining. To hear what women have to go through after they just experienced a violation to their body is just...indescribably heartbreaking. Not only do they have to relive the experience in order to describe it to the authorities (over and over again, especially if it ends up in court - and that's a big if), but then they have to experience another violation via rape kit at the hospital. I completely understand and sympathize with any woman who just gives up. Also, trauma fucks with your mind, and your memories - you begin to question what is real and what you might remember incorrectly. The first episode of this limited series is just so hard to watch because it's understandable why the police question her, and why they start to think she might be lying. The contrast to how the female detectives handle rape cases is really fascinating and I wonder if that's the answer? As much as I like to "equate" the sexes, there are fundamental differences between men and women - and sometimes that needs to be recognized and used to our advantage...you know? Anyway, this show is incredible. The end.

2. Batwoman - Just fucking kill me. I mean, this shit is just terrible and now I'm stuck watching another fucking dumb CW show. The biggest issue that I have is that, at the very least, all of the other CW superhero shows had a GREAT first season (and Arrow didn't turn to shit until season 4, if I'm remembering correctly), but this is terrible from the start, and it's likely only downhill from here. The acting is just so wooden and disappointing. I really like Ruby Rose, but I guess I haven't really seen her act well since Orange is the New Black, and maybe she was only good because the writing is so strong on that show (even until the very end - every character is just so well-developed). I just think she's miscast here - originally because I thought she was was just too good for shit like this, but now I think she's just too serious - and not likeable at all (and you are supposed to like her, she's a fuckin' superhero for fuck sake). The plot isn't half-bad, but if you don't have characters that are interesting, then there is no point.

3. Dublin Murders - I've only seen the first episode, so far, and I'm a little disappointed. I was hoping for a little bit more of The Killing, but it's even slower than that (I didn't think that was possible, and I love The Killing, for the record). I did like the twist at the end, it makes the whole case a little bit more psychological. It makes me want to continue watching, which if the twist didn't exist, I probably would not want to sit through any more of it. I'm hoping it gets better (I saw SO many people talking about it on twitter, but as of right now, I just don't get it).

4. Treadstone - I've watched four episodes, and they were all pretty solid. I think they are introducing too many characters and storylines at once, but I'm hoping it all comes together cohesively. I'm a big fan of the Bourne movies (like, really, really big fan. I prefer them over Bond any day), so this show is a perfect extension of that universe. The only storylines I'm really interested in right now are the guy that was working in Alaska, the past storyline with Petra and that guy that looks like Ryan Phillippe (not quite as hot, because no-one is), and the Piano teacher girl. The other storylines are a little dull, and/or the acting is bad (the girl who plays the journalist is terrible, and unfortunately she has a major storyline for now).

5. His Dark Materials - Oh my God, this is some boring-ass storytelling. How I made it through the first episode, I'll never know (James McAvoy helped tremendously). I think the girl is a great actress - I don't know her from anything aside from Logan but she is stunning in that (even with very little dialogue), so overall the cast in this is fantastic. But the story is just.....blah. It's just not really my thing, I guess, because I know it has some serious fans but it's just so slow, and predictable, and mind-numbing. I'm dreading watching any more of it.

*I have not yet watched any episodes of Watchmen, but I AM EXCITED by all the rave reviews...*

Thoughts on 5 New Shows

I know that I'm behind on pretty much all entertainment, but I've been able to catch up a little bit this summer. Here are my thoughts on some new shows (and by 'new', I mean shows that have only been on for one season so far). 

1. Homecoming - Absolutely blew me away. My expectations were pretty high - considering how much I loved the first season of Mr. Robot and I adore Julia Roberts. It's stylized just like Mr. Robot - the quick editing, the anxiety inducing music, the character introduction and development, etc. and in my personal opinion, this style is groundbreaking for television. I hate to call Julia Roberts under-rated, but I think people rate her more for her "celebrity" than for her acting, but she is a fantastic actress - consistently great. I love Sam Esmail - he's relatively young (compared to his counterparts), but he has a really strong vision and voice. He's also from Jersey! (I've now succumbed to the fact that I can no longer call myself a New Yorker, so I have to support my Jersey people). He's also creating a very talented support system (similar to JJ Abrams - who still uses actors from his Felicity days). I love seeing Bobby Cannavale (he was also in Mr. Robot) and Jeremy Allen White (he's my favorite character, Lip, on Shameless along with Esmail's wife, Emmy Rossum). I hope he's in more of Esmail's stuff (or in just more in general, he's great). Anyway, if you liked the first season of Mr. Robot you will like this, guaranteed. But I hope it doesn't go the way of the rest of Mr. Robot because that show went down fast (it should have been a mini-series or maybe just 2 seasons max). 

2. Narcos: Mexico - I don't have the fondest memories of Mexico from when I was a kid (we lived very close the Mexican border), and this is set during the same time (early 80s), so I have to sort of disconnect a little bit from the story. But, overall it's a very good show. I prefer the regular Narcos, over this, but I do love Michael Pena so much - I will watch anything he is in. I stopped myself from looking up what happens to his character (it's all based on true stuff) and I'm glad that I stayed mostly in the dark. It blows my mind that during the regular Narcos I was convinced that Dermot Mulroney was the narrator (but he wasn't) and then I thought for sure that it was him again in this (and it's not! You can look up who it is, but it might spoil it a little bit because that's what I did, and then I figured out how the story will play out). Oh and speaking of Dermot, he's briefly in Homecoming in scenes with Julia Roberts and it made me so happy (big fan of My Best Friend's Wedding. BIG FAN.). I'm really interested in how season two will play out (trying realllllly hard not to look it up...). 

3. The Boys - So. Dark. But. So. Much. Fun. I love Karl Urban - and this is the perfect role for him. I wasn't so sure about the rest of the cast (mostly newcomers...and Chase Crawford lol), but they all grew on me. It's a great plot - turning the whole superhero phenomenon on its ass and making them "the bad guys" is really brilliant. There are some really inappropriate moments that I find HILARIOUS (the dolphin scene is going to go down in History as one of the funniest inappropriate scenes of all-time). There's a lot of modern "woke" tropes used, but also flipped on its ass - like the "Me Too" movement, the responsibility of the media and journalism, and abuse of power. There is a really good camaraderie among "the boys" - they don't really like each other, but they rely on each other. Also, the best part of the whole thing??? ELISABETH freakin' SHOE. I can't even explain to you how much I love her. I had Adventures in Babysitting on VHS and I used to watch it over and over and over again. At the time, I thought I wanted to be Chris, but when I grew up I realized that I had a super huge crush on her (probably my first crush, at least that I can remember). Anyway, I'm so happy that she's in this. It's nice to see her in something substantial (and I still have a super huge crush on her). 

4. Russian Doll - I wasn't really looking forward to watching this - I kind of hate the whole repetitive storyline (I was never a fan of Groundhog Day. SUE ME!). But! This show is absolutely wonderful. It's so funny, and weird, and unexpected, and dark, and hopeful. I just loved watching every second - even the repetitive stuff. It's so nice to see Natasha Lyonne starring in something (I know she's in Orange is the New Black - and she is awesome in it, but there are like 40 other actors on that show). Slums of Beverly Hills had a profound effect on me when I was a teenager. Lyonne is wonderful and hilarious in this show (but I wouldn't really call it Emmy worthy, I think Lyonne is just like this in real life. I feel like this part was written with her in mind? I'm not sure, but that's my theory. Otherwise, it's some brilliant casting decision.). The show has a really interesting and surprising narrative that I don't think anyone will expect. Plus, the episodes are really short so it's very easy to binge. 

5. Good Omens - This wasn't even on my list of things to watch, but everyone seemed to be talking about it, and David Tennant is always a reason to watch a show. Also, I'm like really late to the Neil Gaiman party. I didn't realize how many stories he has written (that were turned into movies that I love), I recently read "The Ocean at the End of the Lane" (it's beautiful) as my first introduction into his writing. I have "American Gods" on my list next (I like the show, but I don't love it...). Anyway, his stories have a lot of religious themes, but not in a preachy way - more like a mythological, fantasy way and I am definitely here for it. Good Omens is really good, but it's not as great as some were making it out to be. The banter between Tennant and Michael Sheen is really fun, but I did get a little bored during some episodes. I also felt like it became a little repetitive - like, get on with the story please. 

The 10 Best & Worst TV Shows of the 2018-2019 Season

Best 

1. Counterpart - You Guys!!! I am so upset that this show got cancelled, but even more upset that no-one watched it. First, J.K. Simmons is fucking fantastic as two separate versions of the same character (it's a sci-fi series about parallel worlds - I guess I should have led with that...). It's such an interesting character, and fascinating to theorize about what makes up ones "self". What events led to someone "being" the way that they are? The parallel world story has been done plenty of times, but never like this. It was so original, and intense, and the acting was phenomenal. You all missed out.

2. Killing Eve - Season 1 was the best show on television last year. Season 2 has been more of the same - and almost better in some ways (which seemed so impossible). Jodie Comer is my favorite person in the world right now. The little grins she gives, and the loneliness that she exudes in these really subtle ways is just absolutely brilliant. The relationship between Villanelle and Eve is really unexpected and beautiful (a little reminiscent of Luther, but still beautiful).

3. It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia - This show is consistently among the best sitcoms ever year for the past 11 years! However, they just blew up the entire sitcom genre with their game-changing season finale. Most described the finale as "jaw-dropping", which is completely accurate. I saw a lot of people talking about it after it aired, and I assumed that they did something non-PC, which is kinda what they are known for. I was so shocked with what they actually did - something extraordinary beautiful- a STUNNING dance performance that represents the internal struggle of Mac's religious beliefs and his sexuality. It will go down in history as one of the best moments in television - and it deserves all of the Emmys.

4. Shameless - The rise and fall of Fiona is the soul of this show, while the heart of the show is Lip's constant strive to do what is right. This past season, with Fiona's heartbreaking "rock bottom" and Lip's quest to take in an abandoned child really just struck all the right cords with me. This is the only show that I watch with a lump in my throat because it always hits me so hard. Ugh, then they had to end Ian's story in *just* the right way (although, I heard Ian is coming back??!). This just might be my favorite season yet (and to be clear it still doesn't hold a candle to the first season the UK version - which is among my favorite seasons of television ever).

5. Better Things - I've written about this show many times, and nothing has changed. Still one of the best comedies on television. Pamela Adlon deserves all of the Emmys. I love her approach to motherhood and friendship. This season feels really confident and natural, and it continues with these really small moments that feel genuine and subtle. It's funny, but not really in a laugh-out-loud way.

6. Dirty John - For a trashy Lifetime series, I really enjoyed this. I liked the way they framed the story - in a more non-linear way. I bought the book that it's based on (which is based on a podcast, which is based on a real-life "Dirty John". I will never get into podcasts...just not going to happen. I have a hard time listening to people talk. I tend to get headaches. I'm more of a visual person.). I think Connie Britton does a great job of being naive, but not stupid - she truly wants to see the best in people, but unfortunately, there are very bad people in the world that take advantage of that. I have to admit, though, her daughters are played by two of my least favorite young actresses (Juno Temple and Julia Garner - and they are both truly terrible in this). It's odd that the series was picked up for season 2, because this had a very clear ending.

7. The Romanoffs - I'm really only adding this because of a single episode - episode 7 titled "End of the Line". It's top-five episode of the year material. Overall, the series is good, not great. I like that they are all stand-alone stories with one, sometimes very minor, connection. But, man, this episode really hit me hard and I'm not exactly sure why. I don't have any personal connection to the story line, but I was so emotionally invested while watching this. It turns into one of these debates in which you can understand both sides, even though both sides are heartbreaking. Also, this is a really striking turn for the usually very funny Kathryn Hahn.

8. A Million Reasons Why - Okay, it's not like Emmy-worthy or anything, but as a sappy Drama, it has me hooked. They've done a really good job of making the audience fall in love with the characters. I have mixed feelings about the finale, as I understand that utilizing a certain event might be sensitive for some people, but I also think it's a big part of *recent* American history, and the effects have trickled down for the past 18 years. It's a part of our story. We can't keep side-stepping it.

9. The Man in the High Castle - I recently caught up with this series, and the most recent season has really hit its stride. I think it took a little too long to get here, but now that it's here...it's really fascinating. I'm glad that they are ending it after season 4, because otherwise they would have dragged it out even more. The cast is great - I mean, Rufus Sewell as a Nazi?! You would think it wouldn't work, but it does. Alexa Davalos (who I'm in love with) and relative newcomer, Luke Kleintank make a great team, and DJ Qualls is added for mostly comedic effect. It's a fun series about history and time-travel with a little romance and drama added in. (and no, I haven't read the book, but it's on my growing list!).

10. The Good Place - Just a ball of joy. I really hesitated watching this, because I'm not the biggest fan of Kristen Bell (I'm not not a fan, but I tried watching Veronica Mars once, and I wanted to die - the acting is painful). She's great in this, though. As is the rest of the cast. I would say that this is probably my favorite ensemble on tv right now. I can't decide who my favorite is, but most likely Jason Mendoza. Although D'Arcy Carden absolutely killed it in the episode titled "Janet(s)". And Chidi is hilarious in a more subtle way. Ugh, they're all just so good.

*Bonus* 11. Schitt's Creek - While this most recent season was not my favorite, the series as a whole is just wonderful so I'm adding it to list to encourage everyone to watch it. Dan Levy deserves some awards.

Worst 

1. Manifest - Apparently this series has been renewed for season 2, which blows my mind because that means it still has an audience. I just couldn't handle it anymore - I think I made it through 10 episodes and this was only because of the main star. She is memorizing, but the rest of the cast is dull. The story just kept getting more and more ridiculous. It was unbearable.

2. Iron Fist and Luke Cage - I know people are getting upset at Netflix cancelling all of their shows (to make way for new ones!), but this was definitely needed. Both of these shows were so absolutely boring. I would put on an episode, and then fight myself from falling asleep within 20 minutes. I felt like I had to watch it in case there were connections to the other Defenders shows (btw, I'm about 1/2 way through Daredevil S3 and if it doesn't start to pick up, I would definitely include it in the worst shows - what the Hell did they do to Fisk? He used to be such a fascinating villain!). I think these shows started off poorly just because of the terrible casting. And some really terrible acting (what the fuck was with Alice Eve's split personality character? The acting made my brain hurt).

3. The Walking Dead - Oh man, I can't believe I still watch this crap. But, I've already invested so much time. I feel like I have to follow through. I did love the addition of Samantha Morton because she is a fantastic under-rated actress. I like her character, not as strong of a villain as Negan, but I doubt anyone will be. I was really happy that they finally killed off the main (weak!) characters. But, the whole let's live in peace crap is really boring. Like they wouldn't just kill Negan?! How fucking dumb. Also they skipped forward so the kids are teenagers, and we are supposed to care about them. I think.

4. The CW DC Shows - I'm so glad that Arrow is ending next year because it's so bad now. I can't even keep up with the side characters - Black Siren should have stayed dead, but then she keeps fucking coming back and we're supposed to care if she's good or evil or both or neither. I don't give a fuck. Then The Flash doesn't make any bit of sense with the whole daughter story-line. So dull. But the worst offense is Supergirl because I really enjoyed it, until now. For some reason these shows seem to have such strong beginning seasons, but drag out to chores to sit through. I'm not looking forward to Batwoman because I love Ruby Rose, and she is way too good for this.

5. Riverdale - I was all in with how ridiculous this show was in its first season, but it's jumped the shark at some point, and it's never going to come back. I adored that the show featured actors from my generation as a teenager - Molly Ringwald, Skeet Ulrich, and the late Luke Perry. I was stunned with the news of his death. I don't know why it hit me so hard, I was never a big fan of 90210 (I was more of a Melrose Place kind of girl), but I did enjoy Perry in other things (Pike!). I think I just had all of these visions of my friends having his poster on their wall and it's surreal to think that he's not here anymore. Anyway, this show blows now. It's laughable - in one scene they are talking about normal high school stuff, the next Veronica is running an underground nightclub, and then the next they are trying to stop a murderous cult. Also, the musical episodes need to stop - none of them can sing.

6. The Sinner - How do you go from Jessica Beil to Carrie Coon and make the show somehow worse? It doesn't make any sense. The biggest problem is just the storyline itself. I'm not sure I even understood the whole thing because I stopped paying attention - I think the kid killed his parents because they were kidnapping him and planning on killing him, but somehow his real mom is involved but in a cult? I don't know. It was just really dumb. And boring.

7. Crazy Ex-Girlfriend - I mean, I guess I should have just listed all of The CW shows together, because honestly they are all terrible. Started out great, but multiple seasons in and they are all at the bottom of the barrel. Crazy Ex-Girlfriend really lost my support probably somewhere around last year, when she actually becomes a terrible, horrible, unkind, narcissistic asshole and we are supposed to just forgive her because she's diagnosed with a mental disorder? The whole idea of the show was to subverse the idea of the "crazy ex-girlfriend", but instead they just succumb to the same old cliches. I did enjoy the live show that aired after the finale. It shows how hard this cast works - and even though I hate what it turned into, I hope the cast succeed in their future endeavors because they are all awesome.

8. Project Blue Book - I was disappointed with this show, partly because it's from the History channel so I expected something a little more serious, and partly because I love Aidan Gillen, but man is he terrible on this show. It's super cheesy and the acting is so awkward. I only lasted 3 episodes and I had to stop watching. Nothing happened in those 3 episodes! Nothing!

9. How to Get Away with Murder - I'm not really sure where this show went wrong, but it's really fallen off a cliff. I used to like all of the characters, because they were caught up in drama that wasn't necessarily their fault, but now they are all very, very, very awful people - and I no longer want any of them to get away with murder. I hope they all end up in jail, and quickly so that I can move on.

10. Suits - I miss Meghan Markle! And Patrick J. Adams! They were the heart of the show. What the fuck?! I mean, I guess I understand why Meghan can't be a part of the show (whatever!) and I guess Mike and Rachel belong together so they "moved", but the show just isn't the same without them. It was never really a good show, but it was always a fun summer drama. Now it's dull - and they are trying to do Harvey and Donna thing, but NO THANK YOU. And I was never a big fan of Katherine Heigl (she was good on Grey's Anatomy, but the weakest of that cast), and she's terrible on this show.

Thoughts on 4 New Shows

1. Schooled - As a cute family sitcom, it's mediocre. As a spin-off of The Goldbergs, it's extremely disappointing. I like Lainey Lewis as a side character, but she doesn't carry a sitcom. That's the biggest problem - the characters are all...just okay. While on The Goldbergs, every single character is pure gold. I also don't think they take the 90s thing and make it as fun as they do with the 80s on The Goldbergs. There is so much potential, but it's never taken far enough. Part of it has to do with nostalgia factor for the 80s (and I have a stronger connection to the 80s because that's when I was a kid), but I was a high schooler in the 90s so I should have the same nostalgia factor, but it is severely lacking. And a little too specific (I don't think many people knew of Romy and Michele's High School Reunion - that became a cult classic after-the-fact). Anyway, it's still cute, and I keep watching.

2. Miracle Workers - Much too short of a series! It's only 7 episodes that are only 30 minutes long. On one hand, I appreciate it because my list of television shows is so long and I will never catch up. But, on the other, there are so many good ideas in this - and it felt really condensed. I really like Daniel Radcliffe outside of the Harry Potter movies. He's got great comedic timing and has a lot of subtle nuances that make his performances interesting. It says a lot that he can hold his own against a talent like Steve Buscemi. I'm interested to see what the second season will be about. I read that it's going to be a completely different show but with the same cast...and that just seems weird.

3. The Enemy Within - Honestly, this show is fucking stupid. But I just love Debra Morgan so much (Jennifer Carpenter will always be Debra Morgan to me). I have to watch anything that she's in. The premise is basically The Blacklist, which apparently is a show that still exists (I lasted one season - I just could not stand the main girl). This show is painfully predictable - the pilot episode was so in-your-face-obvious, that it was almost embarrassing. The next few have just been plain boring. However,...Debra Morgan! I'll watch it to the end. Even though she wears mascara while she's in a maximum security prison (so realistic! LOL).

4. Fosse/Verdon - I've only watched the first episode, but it was extremely well-made, and incredibly interesting. Sam Rockwell is going to win so many awards, and ditto for Michelle Williams. They are both giving a performance of a lifetime (and that's saying a lot because they've already set the bar pretty high). The editing is sublime - the way it mixes the choreography and dance sequences within the story, and mixing of the past and present is all just really, really well-done. I can't wait to watch more, and it's been a while since I've said that about a new show (Killing Eve is the only show that I truly look forward to currently, which is sad, but also the show is so spectacular that it's enough on its own.). I don't know anything about the story - I mean, I'm aware of Bob Fosse, as a director, but that's where my knowledge ends, so I'm really invested in the story because I have no idea where it's going to go (and I'm trying really hard to not look it up).

Thoughts on 9* New Shows to Watch

1. Maniac - I just finished this series yesterday so I'm not quite sure how I feel about it. There are things that I really loved, but there was also so much of it that felt really cheesy and terrible. Overall, I would say it's just "okay". Emma Stone is just absolutely stunning. Her performance in the second episode alone is worth watching just to see how versatile she has become. The rest of the cast is...not good. Jonah Hill is not terrible, but, and I say this as a huge fan, Justin Theroux pretty much ruins the whole thing for me. I don't think it was his fault; I think he was directed to act that way because every other actor in his scenes did the same not-realistic-in-any-way style acting (even Sally Field!). The whole series did feel like a really, really long and drawn out episode of Black Mirror, but to Black Mirror's credit - the ending is usually worth it. This ending was horrible! *spoiler ahead* There was no point to it...was there? I spent the whole series trying to figure out how these two people were connected "in the real world" (and I thought I figured it out around episode 5), only to find out that they aren't. What a load of crap. I guess now that I'm writing it all down, I really didn't like it at all. Just Emma Stone.

2. The Kids are Alright - Very cute family comedy. Too much of the pilot episode was shown in the ads, so at first it's a little disappointing, but it picks up in the second episode. The cast work really well together, and it feels like a natural family dynamic. I love Michael Cudlitz - it's almost hard to recognize him because this role is very different than what I'm used to seeing him in, but it's also sort of the same (he does the strict, "don't mess with me" character perfectly - as he did in SouthLAnd). I don't know if the show is going to last very long because I don't ever hear anyone talking about it. Also, it's very hard to find it because when you say "The Kids are Alright" into the remote, it brings up the move The Kids are All Right. It's super annoying.

3. Manifest - What a stupid fucking show. I need to stop watching it, but I'm already sucked it! It's next-level bad. It suffers from bad dialogue, convenient story-telling, expected endings, plot holes, absolutely no nuance or depth, and terrible acting (except for the sister - I had to look up her name because I've never seen her before - Melissa Roxburgh. She has great screen presence.). I think it's going to end up being something about the Bermuda Triangle, but who knows? Every episode just gets dumber and dumber. It's super weird that they diverted the plane to Stewart Airport in Newburgh, NY (which is where I grew up!). That airport used to be this tiny little military airport and now it's expanded so much. So weird to see it featured on a television show.

4. The Little Drummer Girl - I'm half-way through the mini-series, and it is THE definition of slow-burn story-telling. I hope it's worth it because it's really fucking boring to sit through. I think I had really high expectations because it's Park Chan-wook! Directing a televisions series! Why isn't EVERYONE talking about it? That's like a HUGE deal. That's why I think there will be a huge pay-off in the end - a reason that makes the whole thing worth watching. It's been compared to The Night Manager which I didn't like, so that's not really a great sign. Michael Shannon is usually wonderful, but he has a really thick (Israeli?) accent and I can barely understand what he's saying which is obviously detrimental. The girl who plays Charlie (the main character) reminds me of a grown-up version of Sally Draper (which is a good thing...I think?).

5. Mr. Inbetween - Not going to lie, I was really happy that this show is only 6 episodes and they are only ½ hour long episodes. I just have too much to watch, but I got through the first season of this really quickly. The plot has been done before, but there is something about this show that is really likeable. Like the scene where he tells his daughter that Santa isn’t real and Jesus probably isn’t, but unicorns are. There’s some super cute scenes where you don’t think about how horrible the main character is. It does a nice job of the “inbetween” aspect. I really liked the last episode and I’m happy that there is going to be a second season.

6. Escape at Dannemora - I think I've watched 2 episodes so far (maybe 3) and I'm not blown away by it. It's another really, really slow moving show. I feel like everything that happened so far could have been condensed into one really terrific episode. Instead, it's all dragged out for dramatic effect, and it just doesn't work. The acting is terrific, though. I didn't even recognize Patricia Arquette, she really embraces every aspect of the role. Benicio del Toro always sort of reminds me of Brad Pitt. I don't know why; it just feels like they took the same acting class. He always does these little subtle things that add depth or nuance to a character (like the fake smoking thing, that was a nice touch and a lesser actor wouldn't have made that work). I think the biggest reason that this show isn't working for me is that it's just too soon. This event, like, JUST happened. We, as a society, haven't been able to really dissect it or reflect on it yet.

7. The Romanoffs - I watched the first episode so far, and it felt like a movie. That's not necessarily a bad thing, but it's going to be hard for me to fit in the time to watch it if every episode is an hour and a half. I do like that each episode is with different characters and different actors. That's a cool idea to do about the infamous Romanoff family since there is so much confusion and mystery about who is actually part of the family. The first episode was ok - it's a story that's been told many times - racist, entitled white woman suddenly becomes less racist once she is saved by a non-white person. I did like the twist about the Faberge egg (and it made the ending delicious). I'm intrigued about the rest of the series, I'm just having trouble fitting it into my very busy tv schedule.

8. Single Parents - Super cute. It's a show that has gotten infinitely better with every episode so far, which is a great sign. At first, I was just like "meh", but now I actually look forward to each episode as something that is guaranteed to make me smile. The cast have great chemistry together, and I love how the relationships have already started to evolve - it all feels really natural. Also, the kids don't annoy me! They are in it just the right amount (and the twin girls are actually hilarious). It's definitely weird seeing Leighton Meester as an adult  - especially during the episode where she was forced to hang out with the "mean" moms because it brought back all of the Gossip Girls memories, but she is surprisingly wonderful.

9. A Million Little Things - I wasn't really on board with this show at first. It's just really over-dramatic, sappy, and also extremely predictable (of course the cheating wife is pregnant!). There was just no subtlety or character development during the first few episodes, but now it's starting to grow on me, though. I think they just tried to tell too much story in the beginning instead of focusing on the characters, but it seems like they course corrected because now I really like almost all of the characters. They do a great job at getting you to relate to each of them, even if they do questionable things. The story-lines have still been a little predictable, but I'm interested in where it's all going to go. Also, a side-note, the one younger daughter looks like she's a Michalka sister but she's not related at all (at least from the info on IMDB) which is crazy to me because she even sounds like them when she sings! She could easily be their younger sister.


*This list has only 9 instead of the intended 12 because I have yet to watch Homecoming, Wanderlust, and The First. 12 new shows was incredibly ambitious...what was I thinking??  

Fall TV Preview: 12 New Shows to Watch

1. Maniac - I'm excited about this show for a few reasons. First and most important, Superbad reunion!!! It's crazy to see how far Jonah Hill and Emma Stone have come in just over a decade. Hill has been nominated for 2 Oscars; Stone has one win and another nomination. I don't think anyone could have predicted that. Second, Cary Fukunaga. I wasn't as much in love with True Detective as everyone else, however - there is a lot of good stuff packed in. I think my expectations for it were just too high. I'm still excited to see how Fukunaga's career progresses (although, I just remembered that he did the It remake too and I thought that movie was garbage soooo....I guess we'll see). Third, the premise looks interesting - pretty much a Black Mirror episode turned into a mini-series.

2. The Kids are Alright - The commercial kind of reminds me of The Wonder Years, but I highly doubt it will come close its quality. My interest only peaked when I saw Michael Cudlitz - a criminally underrated television actor (thank goodness he got away from The Walking Dead. I feel so bad for all of the actors still stuck on that show). He should have several Emmys on his shelf for portraying Officer John Cooper in Southland (possibly in my Top 10 favorite characters of all-time and one of my Top 50 favorite shows of all-time). This show looks completely different from anything I've seen him do, but I have no doubt that he will excel.

3. Manifest - A little bit Lost, a little bit The 4400, a little bit The Returned. It could be great, or it could be a confusing mess. I'm going to give it a chance. I'm always hopeful for a great mystery/sci-fi series. Josh Dallas bores me a little bit, but I haven't written him off completely yet.

4. The Little Drummer Girl - I'm not really sure what this show is about, maybe spy stuff? But it has Michael Shannon, so I'm sold.

5. Mr Inbetween - I tend to enjoy shows that are on FX. They seem to put out good content. I passed over this show at first because it seems like it might be boring. And the "bad guy" is more than just a "bad guy" plot has already reached its peak (Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul - it just can't be topped). But because it's on FX, I'm going to give it a try.

6. Escape at Dannemora - This is probably my most anticipated show this year - or I guess, this is classified as a mini-series since it has an end already? But, man, that cast is incredible - Benicio Del Toro, Patricia Arquette, Paul Dano. Directed by Ben Stiller. The story is insane, but it ACTUALLY HAPPENED, so the world is just a crazy place. I'm happy with this trend of developing these unbelievable true tales into really incredible and entertaining series (like American Crime Story and Waco) instead of crap Lifetime movies.

7. Homecoming - I have no idea what this is about. I just know that Julia Roberts is coming to television, and that's a big deal. People can no longer argue that television is a "lesser" art form than films, or that an actor taking a television gig are somehow taking a step back in their career (I recently heard this argument about Henry Cavill taking a television role. HOW DUMB ARE YOU?). Honestly, my interest in television has surpassed my interest in films. I barely even go to the movies anymore and I'm not even mad about it.

8. The Romanoffs - I have high hopes for this series - there is just so much story to tell. Great actors (Kerry Bishe! So happy to see her face again. I miss Halt and Catch Fire. It's so weird how attached I became after being so bored with it in the beginning). Also, it's from Matthew Weiner (enough said!).

9. Single Parents - I just can't picture Leighton Meester, a.k.a Blair Waldorf, a.k.a Queen Bee, in an adult role. Like, as a mom. For real? I have to see it to believe it. Also, I think this is the only new comedy that I've added to my list this year so it needs to bring it!

10. The First - So, not only is Julia Roberts joining the television world, but so is Sean Penn! Holy shit. Penn is one of my favorite actors of all-time (yes, I'm aware that he's an asshole. Two things can be true at the same time.). Also, I like the premise of this - especially because I'm currently reading The Martian Chronicles. It's very fitting.

11. Wanderlust - I love Toni Collette in anything and everything. She's just amazing. (Nope, I haven't seen Hereditary yet, but it's on the list for this week). I feel like she is very picky about what she is in, so I trust that the script for this is good (although it doesn't really look like my thing - Ugh, marriage blah blah blah, therapy, blah blah blah).

12. A Million Little Things - There was a very long preview that I happened to see about a month or so ago and I almost burst into tears just from that. It kind of reminds me of a This is Us or Parenthood type show that just is so touching and heartfelt. Sometimes I need a good cry so hopefully it will be a welcomed (but sad) addition to my tv schedule.