The Pregnancy Pact

So what is this one about?
Ah ha! Lifetime (yes, that Lifetime. Television for Women) tells us about their movie,

Inspired by a true story, the film explores the costs of teen pregnancy with a story of a fictional "pregnancy pact" set against the backdrop of actual news reports about teen pregnancy from June 2008. Sidney Bloom (Thora Birch), an online magazine journalist, returns to her hometown to investigate the sudden spike in teenage pregnancies at her old high school. Almost immediately, she comes up against Lorraine Dougan (Nancy Travis), the head of the local conservative values group and mother of Sara, a newly pregnant 15-year-old. Meanwhile, the school nurse (Camryn Manheim) tries to convince the school to provide contraception to students to address the pregnancy epidemic but is met with great opposition from the school and community. As the number of pregnant girls climbs to 18, a media firestorm erupts when Time Magazine reports that the rise in the number of pregnancies at the school is the result of a "pregnancy pact." As the mystery unfolds about whether or not "the pact" is real, Sidney soon realizes that all of the attention is disguising the much larger issues that are at the core of the story.

Shazaam that is long.

And how much did I pay to watch?
Zero dollars. I watched it on Lifetime. On my tv. At home. Awesome.

And what did I think?
Oh lord. One thing you might not know about me is that I love me some Lifetime movies. I mean, how the shit can you not?! Think about the fabulous Kirsten Dunst as star Fifteen and Pregnant. Or, Too Young to be a Dad with Paul Dano. Or Student Seduction with Elizabeth Berkeley. Or Co-Ed Call Girl with Tori Spelling. Do I really need to go on?! No. I do not. Lifetime movies are awesome. Awesomely bad. Awesomely awesome.

And man, they really hit the nail on the head for me. I love the whole teenage pregnancy focus on tv these days. Why? I don't know. It actually might be a little sick. Because while, when I watch 16 and Pregnant, often times these girls are stupid and unimpressive and I think they are dumb and sort of got what they deserve, I feel so incredibly bad for them. Because they are so unprepared and just sad.

So, this movie was awesome in that it was showing the typical tv teenage reaction to getting pregnant--you know, going to parties and drinking, saying ridiculous things like "I have to spend time with my friends, I can't spend time with the baby all the time!" (actually, yes, you can. When you decided to have a baby that is essentially what you decided. It isn't your fault. You're just a stupid 16 year old), and being clueless as to the fact that the boy who got you pregnant is pretty much not going to stick around. But, through wise old, old, old Thora Birch it also showed that teenage pregnancy isn't all the fun and games you think. Do people really think it will be all fun and games? Be serious.

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
It is a hard movie to rate because all lifetime movies are pretty much awful. So, is it good because it is awful, or is it just awful?

It certainly is not the best Lifetime movie I have seen, but lets be serious, if it is on some Sunday afternoon, I'm not gonna pretend like I am not going to watch it. And it isn't like I spend a few hours watching Lifetime movies today. Be serious.

So, I'll give it a 6. Better than average, but not by much!

Gossip Girl: Season 2

So what is this one about?
The 'flix tells us,

Expect even more shocking secrets revealed in this hit drama's second season, which continues to trail the privileged life of rich young Manhattan teens. The players, seen through the eyes of a blogger known only as "Gossip Girl" (narrated by Kristen Bell), include Serena (Blake Lively), who left Manhattan for boarding school, her friend Blair (Leighton Meester), who took Serena's place as the "popular girl," and Nate (Chace Crawford), Blair's boyfriend.

exxxxxxxxxxxxcellent

And how much did I pay to watch?
Well, I watched this when I went to go visit my bffloml Lori in Georgia (the state, not the country) and she rented it. But I flew to Georgia, so you could say something ridiculous like "I spent $249.31 to watch this" but that would be ridiculous. So I will say I spent nothing because Lori paid for the rental.

And what did I think?
Man, was Nate really still Blair's boyfriend? Boy have times changed as I am currently (well, not currently this moment, but currently as in these past two months) watching Gossip Girl Season 3. Nate is such an under utilized character. He is barely ever in the show. Which Lori doesn't like because he is so pretty. And he is.

I myself am more of a Chuck gal. The Chuck/Blair relationship was the savior of this season. They are 100% the new Jim and Pam. They are the best couple on tv, they are far better than Jim and Pam--they're married and preggers and uncool now.

There were a few things I really hated about this season. One of them was the Blair/Serena "relationship". Watching this season with my real BFF, we totally thought that Blair and Serena are not only not bff but they aren't really friends at all. They are so mean to eachother, that frenemies is a much more apt term. Another thing I hated was how the last few episodes of the season were really unrelated to the plot. As I was just reading the wikipedia entry on this season I may understand why. They say,

The penultimate episode of the season, "Valley Girls", was a backdoor pilot for a Gossip Girl spin-off series also titled Valley Girls. The series was set in 1983 and chronicled the teen years of the Gossip Girl character Lily van der Woodsen.

Oh, that helps to explain it. Does that show even exist? I've never even heard of it! And can I please ask about Dan. When did he become the biggest stud on the show? That guy gets more chicks than anyone else. And that is utterly ridiculous. I absolutely hated the teacher he had an "affair" with. She deserved all the bad shit that happened to her.

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
Anyway, Season 2 was ok. Season 1 and what I have seen of Season 3 are way better. So much so in fact that I will likely buy Season 3 but not season 2. burrrrrrrrn.

The show was still amazing for the Chuck and Blair relationship and the fabulous clothes. And for the quality time I was able to spend with Lori while we watched it on my last trip to GA.

It gets a 7.

Gossip Girl: Season 1

So what is this one about?
Lori told me I had to watch this. Seeing as she is my bff, and knows the type of crappy crap that I like to watch, I had to trust her on it. I didn't really know much about GG, but netflix told me,

"When former queen bee Serena (Blake Lively) returns to New York's Upper East Side from a stint at boarding school, her old friend Blair (Leighton Meester) fears she'll lose all of the status and popularity she gained during Serena's absence. The once-close friends become bitter rivals, and their struggles for power are broadcast to the entire school thanks to Gossip Girl's blog, which always has the scoop on the juiciest info."

HUZZAH!

And how much did I pay to watch?
Well, there are 5 discs in the season, and at the time I was averaging $1.88/disc. So, times 5= $9.44. Then I went to Target and say that the season 1 set was on sale for $18.99. HOLY CRAP! From like $42.99 to $18.99?! How could I not??

And what did I think?
Well, like I said, I never thought about watching this show. Sometimes in the fashion magazines I read I see that they reference the show and I never knew what the hell they are talking about. Thanks to Lori and her prodding, I found one of the greatest shows on tv. (Notice I didn't say best, or classiest, or smartest...just greatest) It is also one of the most dangerous because it makes me want to buy beautiful clothes and excessive amounts of headbands.

Ok, so, like I've said before, sometimes I feel like I am regressing. I have gone from watching smart shows (well, I don't know that I ever stopped watching "smart" shows...Law and Order, Mad Men) to a LOT of teen shows (Secret Life of the American Teenager, Gossip Girl, Degrassi). I said this already. The thing is, they are just more fun! They take a lot less focus and energy, they are always filled with hot hot hot young people, and the story lines are usually scandalous and full of intrigue. And Gossip Girl is no different.

The cast is stupid good looking--Nate especially. Well, I take it back, I think Vanessa is weird looking. The clothes are amazing--like most other females who watch this show, I think Blair has become my fashion idol. The characters are complete caricatures of real people. Dan is "poor", Vanessa is "arty", Jenny is the "social climber", Blair is the "queen bee" but these people do not exist in real life. Well, at least I cannot imagine them existing in real life. Many of them are too horrible to actually exist in real life. Though, we've all seen NYC Prep and do know that they exist a little.

The Michelle Trachtenberg character is the worst thing ever. I thought Chuck Bass was a total rapist in the first few episodes, but he wasn't. In fact, I am totally in love with him. He reminds me so much of a boy I used to know who was horrible, just one of the worst ever, but so sexy and appealing and all that. Hot damn. So, I like watching Chuck Bass because he reminds me of him. Chuck and Blair are like the best thing ever. They are totally the new Jim and Pam.

The thing I like most about this show is that it really pulls you in. I would be at work thinking about getting home so I could watch more GG. You get caught up in the silly, ludicrous, simple-minded plot lines. And when things happened in the plot that were supposed to be dramatic I would react exactly like they wanted me to. I would be like "Holy Crap!" or "Oh no she didn't!" It was really great. Great fun!

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
You may think you are too cool for Gossip Girl, just like you think you are too cool to read Harry Potter. If you don't think you're too cool for that, then I would 100% recommend Gossip Girl. And if you know the men from my life, you'll have to tell me who you think Chuck Bass reminds me of ;)

I give it a 10!

Degrassi Goes Hollywood

*thats sort of blurry...isn't it?

So what is this one about?
Well, since this isn't classy enough to be on Netflix (though, I'm pretty sure it will be at one point, because it is just. that. good!) so I had to get the description from the 'The N' website (did you know, like I do, that The N is changing to the new Teen Nick on September 28? Well, it is!). So, here it is

In Degrassi's first-ever feature-length movie, Manny's determined to become a real actress, and Paige will do anything to become a star. They've always been rivals, but now they're fighting for the ultimate prize -- a starring role in Jason Mewes' next film. Meanwhile, is Craig still keeping secrets from Ellie? Are the Studz headed for their big break? And why is Jay driving a school bus across the country? When Degrassi goes Hollywood, the only thing bigger than their dreams is their drama.

Because, don't forget, "Degrassi, it goes there"

And how much did I pay to watch?
Nurfin' because I watched this classic on the tv.

And what did I think?
Well, I thought it was amazing!!!

My mom has been on my back lately (within the past few months or so) about how I have "regressed" and turned back into a "teenager". She has come to this conclusion because "of the choice of shows you have been watching." What shows are those? Easy. Degrassi (awesome!), Saved by the Bell (awesome), The Secret Life of the American Teenager (awesome, but insanely ridiculous), Gossip Girl (my newfound, fun as hell, teenage related obsession), and Radio Free Roscoe (a show that should have had way, way more seasons, why else? because it is awesome! and shows on The N at 7 and 7:30am!!). The fact that I used awesome as a description for everything maybe shows that my mom is correct in my regression to teenager. (UPDATE: as I was sitting here updating and eating a cookie sized scoop of cookie dough my mom said "are you eating frozen cookie dough again?" and I said "yeah" and she said "thats another reason why you have regressed." Then I said, "I'm telling the internet on you!!!")

Ok, so I love Degrassi. It takes me back in Canaduh every time. I see those pretty red streetcars clanking down the street and I recognize that it is the King St car, or the Spadina car (HOLLER!) or the Union car (the prettiest trip, by far) and I miss good ol' Toronto. Thankfully I can watch this anytime... or sing it.

Anyway...that was certainly a lot of tangentially related backstory... So, what did I think of Degrassi Goes Hollywood?? I thought there needed to be much more Craig. I was also very glad that there was some love between Manny and Jay (I almost forgot his name, sad). But really, I was so glad to see Craig. Craig, played by Jake Epstein (I saw Jake in Spring Awakening at the Kennedy Center. He is a fabulous singer!) So I was floored that he sang in the movie! In fact, the song he sang, called "Rescue You", was so good that I had to buy it on itunes before the movie was even over. It was soooo Spring Awakening... see...Then I downloaded two other songs by him. And it was awesome.

Actually, the whole movie was quite awesome considering what it was. For a CTV show it was actually pretty well developed. Well, the characters were well developed. I liked that they all brought their backstory into the movie. Poor alcoholic Ellie and sad Marco and lame Paige and sincere Jay. It was really great.

Are you into Degrassi? You should be. In fact, watching the original Degrassi (Degrassi Junior High) was what I rented when I first got Netflix like over four years ago.

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
Man, this has gone way off the rails. Degrassi goes Hollywood was awesome, funny and heartfelt and totally teenagefabulous. It gets a 10.

Geez, I am ridiculous.

In Treatment: Season 1

So what is this one about?
In so many ways I feel like anything I say wont do justice to this show. So, instead of using the netflix description, I will show you what I saw, a preview from an hbo dvd, that made me want to watch this show...


And how much did I pay to watch?
You'll likely be shocked to find out, as I was, that this show is 9 discs. Nine. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. Now, I watch a lot of tv on dvd and I have never seen anything so long. So, nine discs over a time span that went from May 4 to June 27...probably cost as much as my membership for two months, because apparently for two months (or nearly so) this is all I have watched. I suppose I could have bought the dvds, but, well, too late now.

And what did I think?
One thing I like about Mad Men is that it is a show for grown-ups. Now, as it has become more popular, and as Season 2 smashed my heart to bits, it has gained more of a following. And the following isn't only grown-ups (this is probably one of the few, if only, times you will hear me refer to myself as a proper grownup adult). Now, In Treatment, on the other hand, is a show for proper grown-ups. It is slow. It is subtle. It is simply watching people talk. And of course because it is an HBO show it is flawless.

Gabriel Byrne's acting is so subtle and nuanced. His patients are full of pain, and are repressed, and are so exquisite in the way they hold themselves together sometimes. And Byrne is the same way. And lets face it, he is beautiful. The whole show is simply a masterpeice of acting, and writing, and storytelling. And pain. It is so striking to see such amazing acting which communicates so explicitly what the characters are supposed to be feeling. And as an audience we are pulled in. We feel for the characters when they hurt. We may feel like they've brought it on themselves. And we so badly want for everyone to be happy.

But, I suppose in therapy, as in life, that isn't always the case. And even if someone deserves and desires happiness, or love, or contentment, sometimes that doesn't happen. Sometimes people remain lost even if they are good people. And I suppose that is what I mean by the show is for grown-ups. Grown ups realize that life isn't always perfect, or happy, and sometimes even if you have all the access in the world to happiness and love it just may not happen.

I suppose it is the continuing on the path, the going back every day--or as in treatment, every week--that shows you are a grownup.

(And I suppose this meandering, vague, overly flowery description is why I don't tend to write reviews right after I have finished watching something. Usually I am too full of love and elation to seperate the way I feel about the show from what it is. However, in this case, the way I feel about the show is the way the show actually is. Magnificient)

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
Months ago when I had first seen the preview for this show I had mentioned it to my friend Joe. He told me that the show was stunning. I had the feeling it would be, and I was right.

Everything about this show is extraordinary. In fact, sometimes I found myself marvelling at the acting, because it wasn't really a therapy session I was watching--a therapy session full of raw emotions spanning the whole spectrum--no, it was only a tv show.

This is a 10. Perhaps one of the highest 10s I have given. It is an amazing example of the skill and talent that HBO uses to make their incredible shows.

John Adams

So what is this one about?
Man, remember the first President? He was so amazing, what, with winning the Revolutionary War, giving up the office after two terms so as to avoid becoming a tyrant, and him never telling a lie. Ah yes, he was the best President ever.

Oh man, and what about the third President? He only wrote the Declaration of Independence and doubled the size of the United States with the Louisiana Purchase. No biggie.

But wait, I've skipped some President who was sandwiched in between those two fine Virginians. Who the heck was it. I hear he was obnoxious and disliked. And short. And grumpy. And from, GASP, Massachusetts. What was his name?!

Oh yeah, John Adams.

Paul Giamatti stars in this sweeping Emmy winner for Best Miniseries that chronicles the astonishing life of founding father John Adams: revolutionary leader, America's first ambassador to England, the first vice president and the second president. The iconic cast of characters includes Abigail Adams (Laura Linney), George Washington (David Morse), Thomas Jefferson (Stephen Dillane), Benjamin Franklin (Tom Wilkinson) and many more.

Right, that was his name. John Adams.

And how much did I pay to watch?
Well, technically I paid nothing, because I got my mom to rent me these dvds at the biggest damn blockbuster I have seen since high school. And she spent nearly $20. But she did it because she felt sorry for me because I couldn't eat or drink because I was having a colonoscopy done the next next day. (I do not recommend that)

And what did I think?
Jeebus, what did I think!?! I thought it was flipping amazing. A.MAZ.ING!!

For everyone who knew me in high school, you will know, and well, still know, that I am incredibly nerdy. My Virginia pride, and love for Colonial Virginia, and Thomas Jefferson are unending. And this miniseries brought to life one of my absolute favorite times in American history.

The portrayal of the times was so realistic, it was really like watching the founding of America unfurl before my very eyes. It was incredible. If I were a US history teacher I would absolutely use this as a teaching resource. (which is easy, thanks to HBO and their available 'teacher's guide' at their website. Ah, HBO, not only is everything you make completely amazing, but you are looking out for the youth of America in their academic pursuits.)

The settings were realistic, and the accents were fabulous. But the single greatest thing about this miniseries--no, it wasn't the masectomy of Sarah Polley, it wasn't the tarring and feathering of a British official, it wasn't the fruity Frenchies when Ben Franklin and J. Adams hopped off to Paris, it wasn't Sam Adams the brewer patriot, and it wasn't Jefferson at Monticello--it was the casting. Yes, the CASTING. It was the single most extraordinary casting job ever. Ever, ever, ever, ever, ever. In the history of tv miniseries. I can say this with no hesitation.

Now, how can I know this, you ask? Seeing as how all we have are drawings of the founding fathers. Well, the answer is, I just know. Also, I have seen 1776 like a million times. But seriously, the casting was amazing. Tom Wilkinson as Ben Franklin was amazing. The guy who played George Washington, amazing. The casting of John Adams, man, I am going to tell you, Adams was a real troll of a man compared to the other F.F.s, but Giamatti hit it spot on. Now, I will take breif issue with the guy who played Alexander Hamilton because, let's be serious, we've all seen the $10 bill and we therefore know that A. Hamilton was a stone cold fox, and that man who played him was full on ugly. (He didn't even have an alibi). And the entire casting of the Philadelphia convention where the DoI was being drafted, well, I could pick those guys out without even hearing their names...that is how good the casting was/how nerdy I am (aka, how many times I have seen 1776). No, the greatest casting was of Thomas Jefferson. Stephen Dillane was the greatest casting ever. He didn't just play Thomas Jefferson, he WAS Thomas Jefferson.

Here is where I will include a youtube video of all the TJ clips that some loooooser put together. You will see that Dillane's portrayal of TJ was amazing. Unless you don't know as much about him as I do, and then you'll just think, um, alright. neat? Well, I will tell you, it IS neat. He completely embodied what TJ was supposed to have been like. And good god. The resemblance is just uncanny. It was really like he was brought back to life. You know, in that non-zombie way.

So anyway, as much as I love to hate on Tom Hanks, and his stupid way of being, "oooooh, look at meeeeee, I'm Tom Hanks! Everything I do it greeeeeeeeeat. Give me and Oscar! Oh wait, I have a million already. My son looks just like me!" I have to admit. John Adams was incredible. In fact, if you have seen me in the past few weeks you know that it is all I want to talk about anymore. So really, just avoid me, because it is incredibly nerdy.

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
As if you even needed to ask. John Adams gets a 10.

It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia: Season 4

So what is this one about?
Again,

The laughs continue in the fourth season of this delightfully mean-spirited comedy series. Four friends -- Mac (Rob McElhenney), Dennis (Glenn Howerton), Charlie (Charlie Day) and Dee (Kaitlin Olson) -- run Paddy's, an Irish pub in South Philadelphia. Tackling a host of dicey issues ranging from abortion to mental illness, the series co-stars Danny DeVito as Frank, Charlie's father and the gang's shifty partner in crime.

And how much did I pay to watch?
I didn't pay anything. Some gentlemen I know have been yapping on and on about getting on hulu.com (that is NBC's video site, as an fyi, if you didn't know) because all of It's Always Sunny 4 is on there. Well, I couldn't do that until I had finished Season 3. Well, I did, and fortunately the whole season is already posted.

Seriously, go to hulu. It is pretty awesome.

And what did I think?
Well, as Charlie says in the finale "I will slap your face off of your face"...if you don't agree that this is the funniest season yet! I had so many moments where I really laughed out loud, holy crap. This clip from "Who Pooped the Bed?" was one of those ones...

This episode was one of the most hilarious ones. For serious. Any episode that Artemis was in automatically became funnier. She is hilarious!!

Other episodes that I found ultra hilarious were "Mac and Charlie Die: Part 1" when Mac becomes enamored with, and wears around, a wedding dress. You know, so many episodes in Season 4 were laugh out loud hilarious. I swear to jeebus. Like this one,

and this one,

(yes, I know it is infantile to laugh at something like this)
and this...which I laughed at a ridiculous amount when I first viewed it,

(I swear, if you didn't watch those clips Ima be pissed, I will smack your face off of your face)

Danny Devito is such a creepy little troll in this show that he really makes my skin crawl. To see him padding around in his sleep shirt in like 4 episodes makes me want to vomit. I am pretty sure he must have had some sort of "no pants" clause in his contract, because jesus, he is sans pants a lot!

Did you know that Fred Savage is one of the directors? Yes, Fred Savage from The Wonder Years. Oh, how the mighty have fallen.

And as I have said with all the other seasons, man, the men on this show are hot. Dennis (though creepy) is hot. And Charlie too, I don't know why the waitress wont go for him.

I will say one last tiny thing about this season. The finale, where Mac goes to rape Dennis (whoops, SPOILER) and Dennis asks him "dude, do you have a boner?" Jesus, I almost died laughing. I wonder if there is some sort of analysis of that musical on the internet somewhere. Hmmm.... there probably is. You can find all sorts of insane stuff on the internet.

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
Well, like I said, this season is hilarious. I may go buy it when it comes out on dvd because the more I watch the episodes the more amazing they get. Not only that, but I've watched the finale on hulu a million times and sing along with Dee's song Which is so weird and creepy, but still so catchy!!

It has been awhile, well, since Flight of the Conchords that I've been so excited about a show. This is great. I can fully get behind that statement now. Season 4 gets a 10!

It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia: Season 3

So what is this one about?
I am using netflix, rather than FX, to tell you about this show (like you don't know what it is, already)

The gang from Paddy's Pub return for more offbeat, hilarious humor in this cult favorite's third season. This year, Mac (Rob McElhenney), Dennis (Glenn Howerton) and Dee (Kaitlin Olson) try out for the Philadelphia Eagles, Dennis inherits the ultimate party house, Frank (Danny DeVito) believes Mac is a serial killer, a restaurateur kicks Paddy's off the list for the annual pub crawl, and Charlie makes the pub a prize in a dance marathon.

ta freaking dah.

And how much did I pay to watch?
I would like to point out that I had to wait over a month to get this one on dvd. Stoop netflix and it's dvd sending structure. But, it is three discs, and at $2.83 per disc it cost $8.49 to watch all three. I guess it would have been cheaper (read: free) to watch it on hulu, but i feel like stuff I watch on the internet isn't official and I am afraid I have missed something. I am odd. I admit it.

And what did I think?
Hmm, what did I think. I was entertained. This show is certainly something else. It is so, um, scandalous and offensive (to people who are offended by tv) and yet amusing as well. I love the shit all way that Mac and Dennis (and Frank, and I guess Charlie) treat Dee. You will remember, of course, that I was compared to Sweet Dee by two people from my high school, so of course I feel some comraderie with her. Even when she makes mistakes and is no better than her cruel brother I still like her. I mean, come on, we've all gotten addicted to heroin before, right? right?? and made a crippled preist's life miserable, right? right.

This season was not as good as season 1, I thought. I had fewer laugh out loud times. But, it was still entertaining. There were plenty of quoteable moments, like "Day Man" and "Night Man" and "fatty McGee". I mean, if you have seen the show you know that these guys are trying to basically be in the poorest possible taste. BUT, if that is your scene, you'll like it.

Oh yeah, and the episode where Dennis (hot) tries to be a hippie but just ends up screwing the other hippie's gf and then dumping her....CLASSIC! I like those episodes where you think any of the five might be doing something good but then you are an idiot, because these are the five worst people in the entire world. I mean, yeah, they're tv characters, but be serious.

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
I gave season 3 4 stars on netflix, which is what I gave season 1 and 2. Thus, I will give Season 3 of IASIP an 8. It is funny, and amusing, not amazing, but still totally awesome.

The Tudors: Season 1

So what is this one about?
Unsusprisingly, Showtime's website is worthless for a description of the entire show. Seriously though, what did I expect? I had to turn to my beloved Netflix for a proper description. They say,

This superb and visually lush Showtime series provides a look at the world of the Tudors in the days when King Henry VIII (Jonathan Rhys-Meyers) was a handsome, charming, athletic 25-year-old. Inheriting absolute power at a young age, the king indulges his voracious taste for ladies-in-waiting, hangs out with his entourage of young nobles and makes momentous political decisions. The stellar cast includes Jeremy Northam and Sam Neill.

I don't know about all that, but I will give them this, it is visually lush.

And how much did I pay to watch?
Welp, since I've been working a bunch, and therefore going to bed sickeningly early, I haven't been watching as much. Therefore the movies I do get cost more on Netflix. In the case of the a tv show with four discs it not only takes me a long time to watch, but it costs more. The cost per disc was $1.69, so with four discs it cost me $6.79.

And what did I think?
First, man, Showtime sucks! Showtime wishes so much that it were HBO. HBO is like what god makes compared to Showtime. Showtime is like what the dog chewed and then vomited back up. Showtime attempts to cover up that they have poor writing and poor acting by making everything really sex-y. And I don't mean sexy, I mean, like sex sex sex porn-tastic. Now, granted, I have really only seen The L Word and The Tudors, but I feel like I am watching really soft-core porn. Not that I have a problem with it, really--I mean, I am not offended or anything. Its just that it seems like they put it in when it is entirely unnecessary to distract from the weak points of the shows otherwise. Like, when the first scene in the entire series was Henry VIII doin' some maiden from behind. I mean, is that really necessary? Or is it really what Showtime wants viewers to think of immediately? It probably is. Lame. Showtime is lame. HBO forever!!

With that editorializing out of the way I can actually talk about the show. I sort of hate all the main characters on the show. Anne Boelyn and Henry, man, I want nothing but bad things to happen to them. Now, Catherine of Aragon and Cardinal Woolsey, I want nothing but good things to happen to them. The fact that the other characters make things suck for the ones I like makes me hate them even more! And it seems ridiculous to call the characters, well, characters, because they are real people from history! And I was very sad, like, suprisingly sad, when SPOILER ALERT...they killed Cardinal Woolsey. Assholes.

Man, I was so glad when they added some gayness to the show. I got an inkling, and I thought to myself, "self, you know what would make this mildly pornographic show even better? Some gay characters getting it on with eachother!" then lo and behold. GAY!!! God, I was so excited.

But then, the episode where my fave gay character died was so sad. But it was awesome, because I got to learn about "the sweating sickness" which was wild, and I knew nothing about because I don't do ancient, or imperial history of any sort. Hah.

Oh yeah, and everyone on the show is oddly unattractive. I would classify it as sexy ugly. Or, well, they aren't like classicly attractive, but they are sort of mesmerizing.

Oh the one gay guy is kind of attractive. But, well, then he died. Damn.

Also, Johnathan Rhys Meyer is freaky deaky. He has zombie eyes, "milky blue eyes...you know, its not really the eyes that make them look all cloudy, it's actually tiny dust scratches on the surface, thousands of them, because Zack [Army slang for zombie] doesn't make any tears"(World War Z, page 278) like many others, namely Flyer's goalie Martin Biron, but JRM is odd additionally. Its like, because he has a shaved head he looks like a maniac! It is bizarre.

Now, I've been so self-obsessed for long enough that I understand my eyes can border on zombatic (thats my new word...meaning, zombie like; having zombie qualities) as well. As evidenced below, but luckily for me it really depends on the light and the colors surrounding me. (Interestingly enough, and getting WAY off topic, my eyes always look completely void of color at the place where I get my hair cut)

OFFFFFFF TOPIC!!

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
It is really annoying, because as I write this I have lots of complaints about the show, but it was really mesmerizing and I did always run to the mailbox to get the new disc when it arrived.

Those tricky assholes at showtime. I did the same thing with The L Word. I didn't really like it, and I found some of the characters absolutely miserable. I mean horrible, and I wanted only bad things to happen to them. And then I feel the same way about the Tudors, but I am dying to see what happens in Season 2, even though I know from history that Anne Boelyn bites it--TAKE THIS BEYATCH--but I am dying to see how they treat it.

Damn jerks, I give your stupid show a 7. I want to give it an 8, but I'll stick with a seven for now.

It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia: Seasons 1 & 2

So what is this one about?
Netflix tells us,

Irreverence is the cocktail of the day for three slacker friends who own an Irish pub in the city of brotherly love. Despite the changing sociopolitical landscape, egocentric trio Mac, Dennis and Charlie cling to their blue-collar, macho attitudes in this sharp-edged comedy series that sends up racism, gun control and other taboo topics. The show's creators, Rob McElhenney, Glenn Howerton and Charlie Day, star as the self-involved pals.

And how much did I pay to watch?
Well, I got it on Netflix, and it was three discs. So whatever that cost ;)

And what did I think?
Well, I've heard about this show forever. I even had someone from highschool say "I was watching "It's always sunny in Philadelphia" and thought that Sweet Dee reminds me of you SO bad." to which another one of my friends from high school responded "you know, actually, billy is right... you are a lot like sweet dee... or at least she reminds me of you back in high school... well, she's a little bitchier." So, even though IASIP had been in my queue forever, those comments made me want to see it even more. Now, granted those comments were made on November 8 and 9, 2007 but I guess I've been busy...or something.

When I looked up It's Always Sunny on wikipedia they told me

Kaitlin Olson as Deandra^[5] "Sweet Dee" Reynolds: Dee is Dennis's twin sister and a bartender at Paddy's. She dropped out of Penn (where she had majored in psychology but failed her classes) to become an actress, but has put little effort into realizing her ambition. Although she identifies herself as a compassionate liberal, she will always put herself first and often has the same prejudices as her friends and brother. She is highly sensitive about her appearance and her professional failings. She was unpopular in high school due to her severe scoliosis, which forced her to wear a back brace and earned her the nickname "The Aluminum Monster". Since high school, she has had a long string of failed relationships. Like the other members of the gang, she drinks heavily, especially to calm herself after meeting an attractive man. Deandra also harbors a phobia regarding the elderly. Despite her many insecurities, Dee is aggressively outspoken and prone to violence when angered. Dee was the only major character in the show to be conceived without an actor in mind. Although Deandra was originally written as a female voice of sanity to contrast with her ill-intentioned co-stars, the character became an equal participant in the gang's illicit and morally questionable activities after Olson was cast.^[6]

Which made me really wonder...god, am I like this girl?

No. I mean, if I were as hot as her that would be great. But the thing you have to understand about the four main characters is that they are HORRIBLE PEOPLE. But it still ends up being funny as all get out!

I would not recommend this show to you if you're easily offended or if you don't like dark humor. But if you do, man...this one is top notch. The characters are so mean, especially the boys, but you still end up liking them anyway.

I would say that the seven episodes in season 1 were much funnier than the ones in season 2 when Danny Devito joined the cast. But, it was all really entertaining, and HILARIOUS, and I can't wait to see Season 3 on dvd when it comes out next week, and then I can't wait to start watching season 4 when it premiers on FX on September 14.

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
This show was so funny. And the characterization created by the actors was amazing. I can't wait to see more.

I give it a 9.

Mad Men: Season 1

So what is this one about?
AMC (yes, American Movie Classics) tells us about their show on their website.

Set in 1960s New York, the sexy, stylized and provocative AMC drama Mad Men follows the lives of the ruthlessly competitive men and women of Madison Avenue advertising, an ego-driven world where key players make an art of the sell.

The series revolves around the conflicted world of Don Draper (Hamm), the biggest ad man (and ladies man) in the business, and his colleagues at the Sterling Cooper Advertising Agency. As Don makes the plays in the boardroom and the bedroom, he struggles to stay a step ahead of the rapidly changing times and the young executives nipping at his heels. The series also depicts authentically the roles of men and women in this era while exploring the true human nature beneath the guise of 1960s traditional family values.

And how much did I pay to watch?
Nothing, because my mom recorded it off the tv during a marathon and then I watched them all on dvr. Because we are a family of ballers who have a dvr.

And what did I think?
Well, there are plenty of things to say about this one. But my neftlix commentary accurately, if only in 200 characters, gives the basic explanation of what I think. I said, "This one is odd, because I can tell it is very good, but I feel as if I missed something. Like there was some chunk of exposition I missed...otherwise it is just too nuanced and goes over my head." Its weird. I guess it is how the show was designed, but it always seems like I've missed something. I guess AMC has decided to not work in a linear fashion which piques interest so people keep watching because they want to learn more about the characters, but perhaps my brain is too childish and stupid to understand what is going on. This is a very depressing realization for me. But I don't really get it, because I don't understand why characters do what they do, or even how the agency works (or even what the agency does!!).

But, I do keep watching.

Why? Oh, many reasons.

1) the costumes are amazing!! I mean amazing. And the sets! And the actors! Everything and everyone in this show is so beautiful, it is like watching a beautiful painting. (Just like Solyaris) And because I clearly only care about visually appealing things, because my brain is too puny to understand complicated things, this show is ideal for me.

2) I like seeing the 'moment in time' aspect of a show that is supposedly so spot on in it's description of 1960s life. I think a lot of people, including my mom, have a problem with the entrenched sexism in the lives of the women characters (or the gay characters), but I actually like it. I think it is really interesting to watch. And because I am so far removed from that sort of life/expectations/ blah blah, I don't find it offensive and it doesn't really make me angry. I just think to myself, "well, thats how things were"

3) Because some of the characters are so fascinating to watch in their development. I know this is completely contrary to what I said about the show earlier. Some of the characters--Peggy, Joan, Pete, and Betty--are just so intriguing to me. I think this has to be credited to the acting and the writing. For example, Pete is so irritating 95% of the time, but sometimes he is so sad and conflicted and as an audience you feel so bad for him! The fact that the writers can create someone who is so abhorrent and yet, the actor can make you feel so sympathetic for him...DAMN, its amazing!

4) Last but not least, because if I were a character in this show I would be one of the women who are the mistresses, not the wives. The men are always so tragically in love with the mistresses, and their wives are labotimized women who are totally sheltered. It all just goes to how romantic it all seems that the men are trapped in their lives, and their mistresses are the one bright point in their day. (That said, I don't condone real life people cheating on their partners) It just adds to the intense characterization that the writers have created. And, because as an audience member it pulls me in.

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
Well, now I understand that Mad Men is supposedly the greatest thing to happen to tv since The Sopranos. But I don't really like it as much. I don't think they are equivalent. (Well, maybe except that Don Draper is a sociopath just like good ol' Tony Soprano) As I have already communicated, I just feel like there is something missing from the show, some sort of explanation that helps the audience understand what is going on more.

So I sort of think all of the praise is a bit overrated. However, the show is amazing, like I would expect an AMC show to be, its like each episode is a little movie. And for that I really appreciate it.

This show is not a 10. But, I am drawn to watch to see what happens. I give it an 8.

TV: Tell Me You Love Me

So what is this one about?
HBO describes their show.

A provocative and honest exploration of intimacy, 'Tell Me You Love Me' offers an unfiltered look at three couples as they navigate critical periods in their lives. With a candidness that breaks conventional boundaries, creator Cynthia Mort examines the moments – both significant and everyday – that form the basis and language of each relationship.

Twenty-somethings Jamie and Hugo (Michelle Borth and Luke Kirby), experience the vitality of sex but realize their intimacy serves as a drug-like escape from their disparate takes on fidelity and commitment. Katie and Dave (Ally Walker and Tim DeKay), two happy parents in their forties, instead question why their love and devotion to one another hasn't translated into sexual intimacy in nearly a year. Meanwhile, mid-thirties couple Carolyn and Palek (Sonya Walger and Adam Scott), come to learn how much their efforts to become parents and their inability to conceive has strained the intangible connections between them.

Therapist May Foster, (Jane Alexander) works to carefully guide the couples toward healthier relationships and despite a few unresolved issues within her own marriage, she and her retired husband Arthur, manage to share a partnership that is both deeply loving and passionately sexual.

Capturing both the awkwardness and closeness of each couple, Mort opens a window into the complexities of modern relationships. Thought-provoking, raw and immediate, 'Tell Me You Love Me' teases out the unspoken dreams, hang-ups and fears that materialize when sex and intimacy connect – or when they diverge.

I know that is a long description, but instead of going with Netflix's (which didn't interest me) I decided it would make more sense to give HBO their say, since it was a preview on one of their discs that made me queue this bad boy up.

And how much did I pay to watch?
4 discs times 99.94 cents a disc = $3.99

And what did I think?
At first I thought there was way too much sex in the show. I mean, I guess the show is supposed to be about sex, but it seemed like it was at the forefront of everyone's life in an entirely unrealistic way. Once I got past that, maybe after the first few episodes (the sex didn't taper off, I guess I just got used to it), I really started to warm up to the show.

The storylines are really fascinating and I found myself tearing through the episodes. It sucked because I would watch three episodes (a whole disc) in one sitting and would then have to wait a few days for the next disc to come.

The writing and especially the acting was so nuanced and amazing. Especially the story and the acting in the Katie/Dave story. It was really like I was watching two real people and not actors at all. It was just extraordinary. However, as I was watching the show I kept thinking to myself, "um, so maybe I don't want to get married" because the dysfunction and heartbreak that the characters suffered just painted marriage and relationships in general in really, really unflattering light.

Oh yeah, and the music they used was really excellent.

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
I keep thinking about this show, I really want to watch it all again. I'm tempted to buy it, in fact, because it really is some high quality HBOness.

For a tv show to be as amazing as any really great movie I've seen (though TV tends to be more awesome because it is longer and has more time to explain and go in depth...) means the show deserves the highest score.

Thus, Tell Me You Love Me gets a 10.

Flight of the Conchords: Season 1

So what is this one about?
HBO describes its wildly popular new show as,

Flight of the Conchords follows the trials and tribulations of a two man, digi-folk band from New Zealand as they try to make a name for themselves in their adopted home of New York City. The band is made up of Bret McKenzie on guitar and vocals, and Jemaine Clement on guitar and vocals.

Bret and Jemaine have moved to New York in the hope of forging a successful music career. So far they've managed to find a manager (whose "other" job is at the New Zealand Consulate), one fan (a married obsessive) and one friend (who owns the local pawn shop) -- but not much else.

And how much did I pay to watch?
Well, I got the first disc on Netflix. But I liked it so much that I considered buying the dvd set. On amazon it was only $17.99. How could I resist that? So I bought it.

And what did I think?
It took me awhile to wrap my mind around this one. I didn't really get it. I watched the whole season and then I had to do a lot of internets research to figure out what the hell was going on. Turns out, and I'm sure people already knew this, that Flight of the Conchords are actually New Zealand's totally popular folk-parody duo. So they are really New Zealanders, they are really singers, and they do really do the ridiculous music that is in the show in real life.

Awesomely catchy ones like

and amusingly bizarre ones like this

And you can't forget funny smart ones like I mean, "my eyes are just a little sweaty today" CLASSIC.

Of course, you've all probably seen these. Maybe once again I am woefully late in getting tuned into a wildly popular show.

The show is quite infectious. The first time I watched the whole thing I found that the music got in the way of the plot, which is what I was more interested in. Now that I have gone back and watched it all again I am begining to appreciate the music. I think it does take more than one time to get all the quick and small humor. Or, maybe thats just me.

Jermaine is one creepy looking guy, but I think that adds to it. (Because once I bought "If You're Into It" on itunes it wasn't nearly as funny to listen to because you can't see Jermaine dancing and acting like a maniac. Its sort of cringe-com tastic.) Other than that the guys are so earnest and innocent. How could you not find that endearing?

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
One thing that is amazing about this show is the accents. I mean, the accents add at least a point or two to my rating. Man, the accents are AMAZING! I find myself imitating Murray and laughing maniacally. "Well, couldn't Bret be your rapping name?" hahahahahhahahahahahhahahaah!!!

I'd probably give the show about a 7 or an 8. It doesn't have that solid emotional core like The Office which when paired with humor makes it a classic. But it is funny, and smart. Plus, the added point or two from the accents tops this show with a rating of 9. Its high, yes, but the accents really are amazing.

Extras: The Extra Special Series Finale

So what is this one about?
Netflix says,

Despite the popularity of his sitcom "When the Whistle Blows," erstwhile extra and current TV star Andy Millman (Ricky Gervais) longs for respect in the industry. His show is critically reviled, but is he ready to sacrifice his success to follow his artistic dreams? And just how far will he go in the name of personal integrity? Stephen Merchant and Ashley Jensen co-star in the finale of this Emmy Award-winning comedy.

And how much did I pay to watch?
Netflix.

And what did I think?
I thought it was simply fantastic. While watching it I was thinking, "wow, the other seasons were so funny and this one is so terribly sad." But it really paid off. Watching the show and seeing the characters going through their ups and downs you really empathize with them when things don't go well. And the writing of Gervais and Merchant (who by the way is totally hot) really plays with the emotions of the audience in this finale. It was just wonderful.

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
10 out of 10, no question. The end of the show really clinched it for me. I purchased the show last week, but it hasn't arrived in the mail yet, and boy oh boy, I can't wait to watch it all again.

I implore you to go out and watch this series. Its just fantastic.

Extras: Season 2

So what is this one about?
Netflix says, Aspiring actor and perennial extra Andy Millman (Emmy winner Ricky Gervais) finally strikes career pay dirt in the second season of the hilarious HBO series: The BBC has picked up a sitcom he created. Now he must deal with intrusive network execs, fickle fans and his inept agent (Stephen Merchant). Meanwhile, his friend Maggie (Ashley Jensen) supports him on this new journey. Orlando Bloom, David Bowie and Ian McKellen (with an Emmy nod) guest star.

And how much did I pay to watch?
Netflix.

And what did I think?
I thought it was just as great as season 1. Just as funny and just as excellent. The humor was still hilarious, with the Orlando Bloom one being especially funny (to me). Daniel Radcliffe is one of the episodes...his was moderately disappointing, but some of the ones with British actors I didn't know were excellent.

Then watching the outtake reels and the commentary was hilarious as well.

And man, Stephen Merchant is totally hot. Yeah, totally. And his voice is so soothing and wonderful. I'm totally crushing.

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
Again, a 10 out of 10.

Just watch it already!

Extras: Season 1

So what is this one about?
Welcome to the world of Extras!! Netflix says... Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant -- creators of the award-winning BBC series "The Office" -- introduce yet another memorable character: full-time movie extra Andy Millman (Gervais), who's quit his former day job to become an actor. Insisting that most of Hollywood's A-listers are "just lucky," Millman spends his days hanging around the set with best friend Maggie (Ashley Jensen), desperately stroking egos to score his next big break: dialogue.

What it is really about is Ricky Gervais hilarity that is accessible, and HILARIOUS, for an American audience...THANKS HBO! Each episode features a famous actor/actress who is making a movie or tv show in which Andy and Maggie are extras. The actors for season 1 were Kate Winslet, Samuel L. Jackson, Ben Stiller, Patrick Stewart, Ross Kemp, and Les Dennis.

And how much did I pay to watch?
This was part of my Netflix for this month.

And what did I think?
Holy jeebus god almighty. Now, the American Office is like my favorite TV show, but I didn't much care for the British version. I didn't get the jokes, I thought Ricky's David Brent was a mean asshole, and, though I hate to admit it, I was one of the American assholes who had to turn on the subtitles because the accents were so bloody messy! I thought because I didn't care for his Office that I wouldn't like Extras but boy howdy was I wrong.

The use of bigtime hollywood actors, who for the most part are playing insane versions of themselves, is hilarious. I don't think I've lol-ed so much during a TV show as I did during the Kate Winslet episode since watching"Womens Appreciation" from Season 3 of The Office. And what makes the use of the actors so flipping funny is that Gervais and Merchant wrote them that way! I have newfound love and respect for the humor that those two can create.

Andy as a character is sympathetic but still has the uncomfortable awkwardness--though its more Michael Scott than David Brent; Maggie is hilariously clueless, and Stephen Merchant as Andy's agent....good lord! Too forkin funny.

I guess it is sort of ridiculous for me to just keep saying everything is really funny.... BUT. IT. IS!!!

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
This gets a 10. The lol's alone from the Stewart, Winslet and Stiller episodes were enough to carry the series for me.

Go rent it, go borrow it, or go buy it. You wont be disappointed!

Young Americans

So what is this one about?
Man oh man. What isn't this one about?? A group of, you guessed it, young Americans attending a summer session at a private school in, I think, Connecticut.

And how much did I pay to watch?
Nothing. I watched it on the internet, I'd tell you what site (and link it right here) but I'm too afraid the fbi will come after me or something for copyright infringement or some shit. I mean, if netflix had it I would have rented it, and if it were for sale I'd buy it.

And what did I think?
Man. Where can I even begin with this one?

I guess first I will talk about the cast. Not only did it have the gorgeous Ian Somerhalder, of LOST fame--RIP Boone--but it also had my total actress girl-crush. (and its not even a non-sexual girl crush, man, but a full on girl crush) Who is this woman you ask? Well, it should come as no surprise that it is Katherine Moennig of The L-Word fame. Not only are these two intensely gorgeous people on the show but their characters are a couple. And not just a regular couple, OH NO, but Ian plays Hamilton, and Katherine plays Jake (nee Jacqueline) a girl masquerading as a boy so she can attend an all boys school. And they kiss. and it is hot. Hot. hot. hot. HOT. More insanity and attractiveness comes in the form of the local-boy-made-good Will, his town-y friend Bella, and his rich private school roommate Scout.

Now, the story gets an extra serving of crazy when Scout (he is the one on the far left) meets Bella (played by Kate Bosworth)--the beautiful little girl next door who works at the gas station in the town outside of the posh private school. [As an aside, the school is called Rawley, in the town of New Rawley, and I was very confused for awhile because I thought they were saying Raleigh, which led me to believe the school was in North Carolina, which is where they filmed Dawson's Creek, which was confusing because this show was sort of like that one, but, um, way better because James VanDerBeek wasn't there annoying the bejeebus out of everyone and Katie Holmes wasn't whining so much you wanted to smack her.] Anyway, Scout falls head over heels for Bella, but Bella's dad wants to keep them apart because he doesn't like boys who go to Rawley. Why you ask? Well, of course, because Bella's mom, who abandoned her when she was 5, had an affair with a Rawley guy who is Bella's real dad. And are you ready for this, hold on to your seats kiddies, the man who Bella's mom had the affair and child with was...are you ready???... SCOUT'S DAD! Yes, thats right. They're brother and sister!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! They stop fooling around, but basically they're in love with each other for the 8 episodes of the season.

Other than those two insane story lines Will does the normal local kid who gets a scholarship to a pretigeous and expensive private school things. He learns, grows, and sees a whole new world that can be his if he just works hard enough.

Now, what did I actually think about this one. Well, the romantical plotlines were excellent. Beyond excellent. And for a show which I figure was just placeholder during the summer it wasn't bad. It smacks of Dawson's Creek but in a much better way. It doesn't feel so contrived and overly written. Besides the insane plotlines the story actually seems somewhat believable. I found myself cheering for all the characters and hating who I was supposed to hate (he's British) so I guess it was written for a fairly, um, plebian audience (but I fit right in) who needs to be told who to like and not.

OH, and the music was all Jack Johnson, Nick Drake, David Grey, and Cat Stevens. It was totally awesome.

So what is the rating? (out of 10)
I recognize that this show, which I think was on the WB in 2000, is not really good. Not like The Pianist or The Office good, but by god if it didn't just make me feel joyous to be alive and lighthearted and romantical. But, it worries me, liking this show, with its ambiguous sexual relationship between a boy who looks like a girl (Hamilton) and a girl who looks like a boy (Jake) and its almost incestual relationship between Bella and Scout makes me think I might be really twisted...because I was totally cheering both relationships on... I mean, I guess what it comes down to is not all TV shows need to be like The Office, Extras, or Arrested Development to be good. Shows can be dumb as hell but very entertaining. Like, for me, I really like The HIlls I recognize it is not a good show but I still really like it. And that is how Young Americans was. So, I give it a 10. Oh yeah, also, the acting was really good for what it was, I mean, the actors were pretty strong actors, very believable. Oh yeah, also also, the casting was very strong because the characters really did have a lot a LOT of chemistry, which is practically impossible to act if it doesn't already exist. (Just ask Mrs. Hobson about the casting of myself and Danny Devlin. mmmhmm)

So yeah. A 10. And yes, part of that might just be for Katherine Moennig.