The Ultimate T.J. Kous has compiled for you his Top 11 picks for Best Opening Title Sequence. Enjoy!
11. Avatar: The Last Airbender
It's always best when an opening sequence can sum up the integral plot points for you so that you don't have to tell new viewers about it. It's great! You can just let the well-crafted words and artistry speak for themselves. Avatar is a perfect example of this. Also, the last line of this one gives me goosebumps every time!
10. The Girls Next Door
I remember this great scene in this Japanese movie I watched in college, Ikiru I think, where these drunken ladies were in the back of a taxi singing "Come On-a My House" in terribly broken English. I love that song, it's so classy. Add bobble-headed animation, exotic birds and Hugh Hefner and you've got yourself a title sequence.
9. Gossip Girl
So often simplicity is key. I love the little whispers that accompany this one. And of course one of the greatest catchphrases in contemporary television. xo xo.
8. Nip/Tuck
Many nights were spent in dark rooms watching what I think to be the most outrageous show in history. Although it's not a scary show watching Nip/Tuck in the dark is so undoubtedly haunting and I think it's because of this sequence. This song can keep you up at night.
7. Big Love
HBO's new signature show is definitely one of my top ten of all time. I've always loved how it was able to make something so abnormal and unfamiliar seem like the most honorable and normal way of living life. We can see that in the intro: you've got the Beach Boys, ice skating, laundry - all completely comprehensible and accessible (dare I say) "American" things. But then you mix in two too many ladies, the ice begins to crack, and in there amongst the sheets lines begin to blur, we can't really tell who's where and what's going on. But don't worry, we return to normalcy by the end....when they have family dinner on a tiny far-off planet in some unknown solar system....
6. Ugly Betty
This one always brings a smile to my face. The cheery, upbeat music, the simple concept. I love how it comes right at the end of the first act, too, right when they drop some sort of plot bomb. Also, to this day, I love how after seeing each part of it individually throughout the shuffle Betty's mug is still so surprising huge and ugly in the end. Gets me every time.
5. Melrose Place
Some have accused me of having a "1994 fetish." How can you blame me?! The hair! The clothes! The GUITAR RIFFS!! Hearing that first swanky chord of this number always takes me back to my childhood years, sitting down with my mom and my sisters to watch another one of their "adult programs." God bless the 1990s! (note: sorry for leaving out Amanda Woodward. this sequence is from before Heather Locklear's 6 year stint as a "special guest star.")
4. Neon Genesis Evangelion
Also a relic from my days studying Japanese culture this is perhaps one of the best songs I don't know the meaning of. At about the halfway point the imagery is powerful and fast moving. Try and see if you can figure out the plot of this short-lived anime series by just watching the credits. I bet you can't!
3. LOST
When it comes down to it, LOST is just scary. Horrifying, really. Some of you may know that I watched the entire first two seasons in a couple of nights. Sitting there, sleep deprived, not knowing when the last episode ended and this one began, the darkness would surround me and all I could see in the blackness was a distant word in white, eerily floating towards me momentarily coming into focus as the dissonant music swelled. At that moment, actively watching this title for what felt like the first time ever all I could think was, 'This is what it must feel like to go insane - you just float through the abyss as giant, abstract words drift past you.' Creepy.
2. The Golden Girls
Sometimes it's all about the music. Other times it's all about Bea Arthur biting her fist, Betty White being hurled into a closet, Rue McClanahan strutting in a night gown and eyemask and the beautiful Miami skyline. These are images I'll NEVER forget.
1. Six Feet Under
I think this speaks for itself. Utterly beautiful.
Well there you have it! My top 11 (I know, I just couldn't make any cuts!) Hope you enjoyed them. Did I leave any of your favorites out?? Be sure to let me know.
But first, before I go I want to share some honorable mentions. Here, dear reader, are my choices for the best NEW opening title sequences from this year's fall lineup:
True Blood
At first it seemed strange and a little alienating, but - oh boy - does this song ever grow on you! The whole sequence captures the desperate, underground nature of the show - I'm simultaneously disgusted and intrigued by these images. Just remember - God Hates Fangs!
Fringe
Again, this is a simple one, not too long, but the music is delightful and the concept speaks to the high school scientist of my past. Some might think it's hokey to be so explicit about the fringe science, with the floating words and all, but I like it. Every time I see it I get something new, and isn't that what it's all about when it comes to main titles?
Showing posts with label Telly on Telly. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Telly on Telly. Show all posts
Monday, November 10, 2008
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Telly on Telly: Mother Chucker
Even though some might not like to admit it, Gossip Girl is one of the best shows airing on TV right now. And one of the best things about it is without a doubt the Dastardly Devil himself, Chuck Bass.
Came across I Am Chuck Bass a somewhat insightful look at Gossip Girl, a self proclaimed "Modern Man’s Guide". Although Girl is in the title and the clothes and hair are amazing, there's nothing shameful about a man loving the over-the-top drama that is the lives of these UESiders.
Chuck really reversed the game this week. No wonder the CW dropped this exciting promo the same week our boy reclaims the stage from "New Serena." After all, this week was titled after him...
Kudos, Young Bass!
Came across I Am Chuck Bass a somewhat insightful look at Gossip Girl, a self proclaimed "Modern Man’s Guide". Although Girl is in the title and the clothes and hair are amazing, there's nothing shameful about a man loving the over-the-top drama that is the lives of these UESiders.
Chuck really reversed the game this week. No wonder the CW dropped this exciting promo the same week our boy reclaims the stage from "New Serena." After all, this week was titled after him...
Kudos, Young Bass!
Friday, September 26, 2008
Telly on Telly: The List, Updated
Some readers out there may remember my list of all-time favorite tv shows.
I believe it is now time to add a few more to the list, so take note!!
Mad Men
Cashmere Mafia
Jon & Kate Plus Eight
Chelsea Lately
Summer Heights High
Brothers & Sisters
The Biggest Loser
The Riches
The Girls Next Door
Melrose Place
I believe it is now time to add a few more to the list, so take note!!
Mad Men
Cashmere Mafia
Jon & Kate Plus Eight
Chelsea Lately
Summer Heights High
Brothers & Sisters
The Biggest Loser
The Riches
The Girls Next Door
Melrose Place
Telly on Telly: The Beauty In Ugly
Last night was the third season premiere of one of my favorite campy shows, Ugly Betty. Betty's back, and frankly better than ever. As many know they relocated the show to New York (where it is set, although the first two seasons were filmed in LA) and it really adds to the show. There's a lot to be said about shooting a show on location, and when that location happens to be New York City it can really add to a show's overall charm. And Ugly Betty has nothing but charm as it is, so a change like this really boosts the show's overall look and feel.
Mode has changed while Betty took off for her somewhat lesbianic journey across our great nation. An icy, barren, monochromatic world has replaced the the once bright and colorful Mode as the one and only Wilhelmina Slater has taken the reigns of the magazine, bumping Daniel (and his newly acquired French son, Daniel Jr., adorably deemed D.J.) downstairs to Meade Publications' very own answer to Maxim, Player Magazine, where they play air hockey in shorts and boo anyone who addresses them. It's nearly perfect, really, that Daniel is running the lad mag, given his penchant for booze 'n' bitches. But I do miss ogling Eric Mabius in all those impeccably fitting suits.
The thing I missed most about Ugly Betty during it's hiatus was not the sets or the costumes or delicious plot twists, but the characters. Every last one of them is hilariously written and so wonderfully embodied. From little gay-boy Justin (whose shining moment for me this week was when he shrieked in excitement when Betty informed the family of her decision to move into the city) to Betty's Scottish Jiminy Cricket Christina (who, lest we forget, is carrying Willie's baby, the next heir to the Meade empire) everyone brings something to the table. My favorites are naturally Amanda and Mark, but you all know Hilda's got a special place in my heart. I think it's because she's so trashy YET classy. You know the ultimate t.j. kous loves a little juxtaposition. And COACH! Mmm mmm, what a hottie!
Ugly Betty shined last night. The writing was sharp and quick as always, and the situations, which got a little far-fetched and, well, boring in the second season, are shaping up to be quite intriguing this time around. Will the Meade family band together and stop Wilhelmina in her tracks? Will Betty ignore her third life rule and start dating that über-cute (maybe too cute?) musicianboy from across the hall? And what about Lohan? How will she work in to all of this? What is the future of Mode, or Player for that matter? And what the hell is going to happen when the spawn of Satan herself finally comes to light?
Ugly Betty's all new, every Thursday at 8pm on ABC!
Mode has changed while Betty took off for her somewhat lesbianic journey across our great nation. An icy, barren, monochromatic world has replaced the the once bright and colorful Mode as the one and only Wilhelmina Slater has taken the reigns of the magazine, bumping Daniel (and his newly acquired French son, Daniel Jr., adorably deemed D.J.) downstairs to Meade Publications' very own answer to Maxim, Player Magazine, where they play air hockey in shorts and boo anyone who addresses them. It's nearly perfect, really, that Daniel is running the lad mag, given his penchant for booze 'n' bitches. But I do miss ogling Eric Mabius in all those impeccably fitting suits.
The thing I missed most about Ugly Betty during it's hiatus was not the sets or the costumes or delicious plot twists, but the characters. Every last one of them is hilariously written and so wonderfully embodied. From little gay-boy Justin (whose shining moment for me this week was when he shrieked in excitement when Betty informed the family of her decision to move into the city) to Betty's Scottish Jiminy Cricket Christina (who, lest we forget, is carrying Willie's baby, the next heir to the Meade empire) everyone brings something to the table. My favorites are naturally Amanda and Mark, but you all know Hilda's got a special place in my heart. I think it's because she's so trashy YET classy. You know the ultimate t.j. kous loves a little juxtaposition. And COACH! Mmm mmm, what a hottie!
Ugly Betty shined last night. The writing was sharp and quick as always, and the situations, which got a little far-fetched and, well, boring in the second season, are shaping up to be quite intriguing this time around. Will the Meade family band together and stop Wilhelmina in her tracks? Will Betty ignore her third life rule and start dating that über-cute (maybe too cute?) musicianboy from across the hall? And what about Lohan? How will she work in to all of this? What is the future of Mode, or Player for that matter? And what the hell is going to happen when the spawn of Satan herself finally comes to light?
Ugly Betty's all new, every Thursday at 8pm on ABC!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Telly on Telly: Fall Season Update
Hello friends and fellow tele-philes! Just wanted to drop a quick update as last time we talked about the Fall lineup I had some catching up to do.
We'll start with 90210. Ok. So I have heard a lot of bad news about 90210. Everyone's telling me it sucks. I'm getting texts from K Skell telling me she's "so 9021Over it!". My brother hated it. My grrl Soph hated it. And basically everyone's talking shit. I don't know WHAT these kids have been watching but it couldn't possibly be the same three hours of 90210 I saw. This show was chock full of intensity and ridiculousness. There is no bone in my entire body that will ever take 90210 seriously and I think this is why I liked it so much. And HELLO, people! A cameo from none other than Kelly's BOOZED UP MOTHER!! Amazing. She was always my favorite character. She was so 90s chic, totally nouveau riche! I'll always picture her with her smart little power lesbian haircut, in a white Chanel suit, snorting lines at the Mother-Daughter Fashion show. Ugh, she was such a bitch to her daughter. And it's really nice to see that things have just gotten worse for that cow of a woman. Don't get me wrong, I really like her and I think she's great. Just what a messed up character! Kudos for bringing back Jackie Taylor-Silver! Oh! And that drug addict Adrianna is also going to be gold, I can tell!
On to Fringe. I had no idea that this show was going to deal so closely with some of my favorite things (telepathy, shared dreamscapes, cloudbusting, telekinesis) . I was also unaware that these things had already been grouped together and are called fringe science which is how the show gets its name. I really liked this show. I found it kept my attention for what seemed like hours (although it was only roughly 1.5 hours) and I wanted to know more. Just like with all JJ Abrams jobs, I was intrigued! That's the key word when it comes to programming like this: intrigue. What is the Pattern? Who is this crazy scientist man and why are his studies only now becoming relevant? How much power does Massive Dynamic actually have? What do they do? What is in the past? What's in the future? You know you've got a good show on your hands if the ultimate t.j. kous is yakking on about the future! I haven't watched this week's episodes of either of these shows yet, but I will be soaking them up this weekend.
Another little gem I came across while channel surfing: (in actuality I was commissioned to watch this show by Brendan Shea who called me at midnight on Thursday, laughing like a toddler and totally stoked about the ridiculousness that is) Glam God with Vivica A. Fox! Ladies and gentlemen welcome to the most extreme hour of reality television I have ever seen. I had heard about this show as a friend of a friend happens to be a contestant (Preston, for those of you keeping track) but I had no idea it would be so absurd. It's your basic reality competition format and the skill needed to succeed is styling. What's with the new wave of styling shows in TV? There's this one, then there's The Rachel Zoe Project (which I thought was magnificent in it's train-wreck like qualities and I love her gay's vanity specs!), and also the CW's coming out with something called Stylista (whatever). Anyway, it's nice to know that America is just getting queerer and queerer.
The reason Glam God was so good for me is not the terribly unflattering outfits Vivica wore, or even the intense fervor with which she delivered each of her lines. It wasn't the alcoholic contestant who "drink Jack Daniel's for breakfast" (I'm not kidding this guy was actually drunk the whole episode, and when they went out for a night on the town, which ended up actually being a challenge because they were styling Hollywood "it girls", he decided to let Jackie Blue come along [this is his drag queen persona who wore leopard print and a giant blond wig] and he fell and he stole the spotlight and he was a big old hot mess). The reason I loved this show was because it was so, so easy to see the seams. I could tell it was cheap and thrown together haphazardly. I could see why it was difficult and also why it wasn't even really a challenge at all. I saw the desperate nature of all the characters and the ebbing career of my girl Viv. It's on Thursdays on VH1. Watch it. You won't be sorry.
We'll start with 90210. Ok. So I have heard a lot of bad news about 90210. Everyone's telling me it sucks. I'm getting texts from K Skell telling me she's "so 9021Over it!". My brother hated it. My grrl Soph hated it. And basically everyone's talking shit. I don't know WHAT these kids have been watching but it couldn't possibly be the same three hours of 90210 I saw. This show was chock full of intensity and ridiculousness. There is no bone in my entire body that will ever take 90210 seriously and I think this is why I liked it so much. And HELLO, people! A cameo from none other than Kelly's BOOZED UP MOTHER!! Amazing. She was always my favorite character. She was so 90s chic, totally nouveau riche! I'll always picture her with her smart little power lesbian haircut, in a white Chanel suit, snorting lines at the Mother-Daughter Fashion show. Ugh, she was such a bitch to her daughter. And it's really nice to see that things have just gotten worse for that cow of a woman. Don't get me wrong, I really like her and I think she's great. Just what a messed up character! Kudos for bringing back Jackie Taylor-Silver! Oh! And that drug addict Adrianna is also going to be gold, I can tell!
On to Fringe. I had no idea that this show was going to deal so closely with some of my favorite things (telepathy, shared dreamscapes, cloudbusting, telekinesis) . I was also unaware that these things had already been grouped together and are called fringe science which is how the show gets its name. I really liked this show. I found it kept my attention for what seemed like hours (although it was only roughly 1.5 hours) and I wanted to know more. Just like with all JJ Abrams jobs, I was intrigued! That's the key word when it comes to programming like this: intrigue. What is the Pattern? Who is this crazy scientist man and why are his studies only now becoming relevant? How much power does Massive Dynamic actually have? What do they do? What is in the past? What's in the future? You know you've got a good show on your hands if the ultimate t.j. kous is yakking on about the future! I haven't watched this week's episodes of either of these shows yet, but I will be soaking them up this weekend.
Another little gem I came across while channel surfing: (in actuality I was commissioned to watch this show by Brendan Shea who called me at midnight on Thursday, laughing like a toddler and totally stoked about the ridiculousness that is) Glam God with Vivica A. Fox! Ladies and gentlemen welcome to the most extreme hour of reality television I have ever seen. I had heard about this show as a friend of a friend happens to be a contestant (Preston, for those of you keeping track) but I had no idea it would be so absurd. It's your basic reality competition format and the skill needed to succeed is styling. What's with the new wave of styling shows in TV? There's this one, then there's The Rachel Zoe Project (which I thought was magnificent in it's train-wreck like qualities and I love her gay's vanity specs!), and also the CW's coming out with something called Stylista (whatever). Anyway, it's nice to know that America is just getting queerer and queerer.
The reason Glam God was so good for me is not the terribly unflattering outfits Vivica wore, or even the intense fervor with which she delivered each of her lines. It wasn't the alcoholic contestant who "drink Jack Daniel's for breakfast" (I'm not kidding this guy was actually drunk the whole episode, and when they went out for a night on the town, which ended up actually being a challenge because they were styling Hollywood "it girls", he decided to let Jackie Blue come along [this is his drag queen persona who wore leopard print and a giant blond wig] and he fell and he stole the spotlight and he was a big old hot mess). The reason I loved this show was because it was so, so easy to see the seams. I could tell it was cheap and thrown together haphazardly. I could see why it was difficult and also why it wasn't even really a challenge at all. I saw the desperate nature of all the characters and the ebbing career of my girl Viv. It's on Thursdays on VH1. Watch it. You won't be sorry.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Telly on Telly: Fall Season
Ahhhh, welcome back, readers. It's the ultimate t.j. kous's favorite time of year! New Fall Seasons are just the best! Old returning favorites, new returning favorites and brand spanking new programming. Ok, let's break this down.
What I have watched:
I have caught up on all my Gossip Girl. Like, ALL. In the last week I have watched all of it. Every episode. And these seaon two eps! Well, where does one start? It was a seamless break and I am so looking forward to what GG has to give. As the narrator herself proclaimed "[we] ain't seen nothing yet!" Amazing.
Other than that I've been watching Jon & Kate Plus Eight, which is just the best little reality show ever. I tell ya, those kids crack me up, every time, I just want to squeeze their cute little face! And Kate and Jon, well there's a great study of human interaction. Sheesh, she's a bitch. But i do love her. A lot!
Caught the VMAs (whatever)
Entourage was delightful and as narratively vacuous as ever. They all looked great, the ladies were there (and topless as always), the scenery was top notch. You know, it's Entourage.
I love love LOVED! True Blood. What a great show, just what I needed really. I love vampires (like, i want to legit BE one) and after having given myself literary blueballs with Twilight, it was nice to see some vampires fucking! Mmm mmm! I was also very impressed with how they handled the telepathy, which to me seemed to have the most bombing potential when it came to the show's plot devices. I will definitely be back for more!
Now, what I haven't watched, but anticipate:
90210 is sitting, waiting on my DVR, THREE HOURS OF IT! I just don't know what to do. I hear bad things, everyone's telling me it sucks, and I don't like that. I actually did hear tonight (from an unexpected source) that it was great and I will love it. You know what? It will be great and I WILL love it! You know why? Because I'm going to choose to! Anything that has Jennie Garth, the return of Brenda, Lucille Bluth AND Aunt Becky PLUS an entire cast of new young hotties can't be all bad. It's just not possible. I have a lot of patience for 90210.
Fringe is also on my DVR. Not so in a rush to watch this one as I imagine it will have to mature a little before I can really sink my teeth into it. But I am very excited!!
I am very very looking forward to the returns of Ugly Betty, The Office, Old Christine, Little BRITAIN (in USA form this time, which is going to just be so effing special!) and I'm even more looking forward to the new version of Kath & Kim! Granted I've never seen the Aussie version, but I can just see really good things for this show. Selma Blair is a really gifted comedian and I so enjoy her in comedic roles. And there's nothing I need to say or even think to prove the comic worth and value of Molly Shannon! (What's the difference between worth and value anyway??) She's a singular sensation. It should be great.
So, until the winter, when my one and only returns, I have plenty of shit to watch on the tube.
What are YOU going to be watching??
What I have watched:
I have caught up on all my Gossip Girl. Like, ALL. In the last week I have watched all of it. Every episode. And these seaon two eps! Well, where does one start? It was a seamless break and I am so looking forward to what GG has to give. As the narrator herself proclaimed "[we] ain't seen nothing yet!" Amazing.
Other than that I've been watching Jon & Kate Plus Eight, which is just the best little reality show ever. I tell ya, those kids crack me up, every time, I just want to squeeze their cute little face! And Kate and Jon, well there's a great study of human interaction. Sheesh, she's a bitch. But i do love her. A lot!
Caught the VMAs (whatever)
Entourage was delightful and as narratively vacuous as ever. They all looked great, the ladies were there (and topless as always), the scenery was top notch. You know, it's Entourage.
I love love LOVED! True Blood. What a great show, just what I needed really. I love vampires (like, i want to legit BE one) and after having given myself literary blueballs with Twilight, it was nice to see some vampires fucking! Mmm mmm! I was also very impressed with how they handled the telepathy, which to me seemed to have the most bombing potential when it came to the show's plot devices. I will definitely be back for more!
Now, what I haven't watched, but anticipate:
90210 is sitting, waiting on my DVR, THREE HOURS OF IT! I just don't know what to do. I hear bad things, everyone's telling me it sucks, and I don't like that. I actually did hear tonight (from an unexpected source) that it was great and I will love it. You know what? It will be great and I WILL love it! You know why? Because I'm going to choose to! Anything that has Jennie Garth, the return of Brenda, Lucille Bluth AND Aunt Becky PLUS an entire cast of new young hotties can't be all bad. It's just not possible. I have a lot of patience for 90210.
Fringe is also on my DVR. Not so in a rush to watch this one as I imagine it will have to mature a little before I can really sink my teeth into it. But I am very excited!!
I am very very looking forward to the returns of Ugly Betty, The Office, Old Christine, Little BRITAIN (in USA form this time, which is going to just be so effing special!) and I'm even more looking forward to the new version of Kath & Kim! Granted I've never seen the Aussie version, but I can just see really good things for this show. Selma Blair is a really gifted comedian and I so enjoy her in comedic roles. And there's nothing I need to say or even think to prove the comic worth and value of Molly Shannon! (What's the difference between worth and value anyway??) She's a singular sensation. It should be great.
So, until the winter, when my one and only returns, I have plenty of shit to watch on the tube.
What are YOU going to be watching??
Friday, February 15, 2008
Telly on Telly: R.I.(Sweet)P.
It's been a good few months with this season's Project Runway designers. A memorable season indeed: the all-star guest judges (SJP, Cavalli, I hear Posh is judging the finals), firsts for menswear, prom dresses and wrestling wear, the constant model shifting (one week it's the girls, then a group of BOY models[!], then highschool girls, then newly-trimmed ex-fatties), and what I believe to be the greatest crop of talent the show has seen. Seriously, SO MANY of them are good! Nowhere near Season One when really the only exceptional ones were Jay and Kara Saun (oh, remember that ghastly Wendy Pepper? I loved her like no other!).
I mean, I guess they're comparable to the season two hopefuls, but maybe that's just because that was the most charismatic cast, with the BEST characters. I mean how can you ever beat Kara Janx, Zulema, the return of Daniel Franco (who, ps., I stood FIVE FEET away from at a music store last week), Dirty Diana and Guada-Loopy, not to mention the Gay Boys Club that was Santino, Andrae, Nick Verreos and my Love, Daniel V! In the immortal words of Michael Kors, "I'm a full-on Dan-Fan!"
But let's get real about what's happening here. We have some terribly talented designers churning out top quality work, one ridiculous challenge after another. And as far as I'm concerned these have been some of the most challenging challenges yet (I think my favorite was the hairstyle to avant-garde, avant-garde to mainstream challenge).
As for the final four: I love love love Jillian. She's adorable and talented and sweet and I think she has what it takes to win this show. Christian is a force to be reckoned with. The boy is supremely gifted. He has excellent skills, sharp and efficient skills, that have helped him to succeed in every challenge. There's no doubt in my mind that he will produce an outstanding collection for Fashion Week and he has potential to build a strong fashion empire. To be honest I have nothing to say about either Chris or Rami. I like them both. I don't really love them, but I like them and wish them well. (PS. Remember when Chris got kicked off already??)
The reunion episode airs next week and I can't wait to see Elisa and Kit! God I loved Kit. I remember during the prom episode they had this stupid texting poll during the commercial:
Who would you like to go to prom with?
A. Christian
B. Jillian
C. Kit
D. Rami
It's tough. They all bring something wonderful to the table. But I sincerely believe, right now, that I would have the best time - undoubtedly - with Miss Kit Pistol!
The Fashion Week Finale follows a week behind the Reunion next week. Wednesdays at 10 on Bravo.
Who would YOU take to prom??
I mean, I guess they're comparable to the season two hopefuls, but maybe that's just because that was the most charismatic cast, with the BEST characters. I mean how can you ever beat Kara Janx, Zulema, the return of Daniel Franco (who, ps., I stood FIVE FEET away from at a music store last week), Dirty Diana and Guada-Loopy, not to mention the Gay Boys Club that was Santino, Andrae, Nick Verreos and my Love, Daniel V! In the immortal words of Michael Kors, "I'm a full-on Dan-Fan!"
But let's get real about what's happening here. We have some terribly talented designers churning out top quality work, one ridiculous challenge after another. And as far as I'm concerned these have been some of the most challenging challenges yet (I think my favorite was the hairstyle to avant-garde, avant-garde to mainstream challenge).
As for the final four: I love love love Jillian. She's adorable and talented and sweet and I think she has what it takes to win this show. Christian is a force to be reckoned with. The boy is supremely gifted. He has excellent skills, sharp and efficient skills, that have helped him to succeed in every challenge. There's no doubt in my mind that he will produce an outstanding collection for Fashion Week and he has potential to build a strong fashion empire. To be honest I have nothing to say about either Chris or Rami. I like them both. I don't really love them, but I like them and wish them well. (PS. Remember when Chris got kicked off already??)
The reunion episode airs next week and I can't wait to see Elisa and Kit! God I loved Kit. I remember during the prom episode they had this stupid texting poll during the commercial:
Who would you like to go to prom with?
A. Christian
B. Jillian
C. Kit
D. Rami
It's tough. They all bring something wonderful to the table. But I sincerely believe, right now, that I would have the best time - undoubtedly - with Miss Kit Pistol!
The Fashion Week Finale follows a week behind the Reunion next week. Wednesdays at 10 on Bravo.
Who would YOU take to prom??
Monday, January 28, 2008
Telly on Telly: Tell Me What You Don't Like About Yourself, or Why Kimber's The Best
You know how there are those glorious moments in television when in a scene a character will just go there? They'll say or do something so offensive, absolutely uncalled for and totally Jem (read: truly outrageous) that it just gets all your juices flowin'? Like in Project Runway 2 when Zulema demanded a walk-off and stole Nick's model. Or, and this is a perfect example, Future-Jack's lament in the Season 3 Finale of LOST. It is always so wonderful when a show goes there. However, it's risky. Either it pumps new life into the show, enticing viewers more than ever, or it signifies the plot-point of no return: the proverbial shark jump. Now, imagine, if you will (and I believe you will) a show that perpetually and constantly - scene after scene, episode after episode, season after season - pushes the envelope, leaving its audience in knee-weakening awe! It exists. This show, ladies and gentlemen, is Nip/Tuck: a whirlwind of sex, lies and plastic surgery.
I'll admit it, because it keeps going further and further into outrageousness, my feelings for the show have sometimes been lackluster. Like Season 4, for instance. Julia and Sean getting back together and having the lobster-claw baby was a little unbelievable for me. For those of you that haven't seen it, babies with lobster-claws is the type of shit that comes up on this show.
But usually the outlandish plot twists are anything but lackluster. Highlights include the morbidly obese woman who spent so many years on her couch that her body began to absorb the upholstery. And there's the one with the gay guy and his fag-hag who were drunk and depressed and decided to shoot each other in the face, but she didn't shoot because she was too in love with him, but he did shoot and mangled her face, only to have her shoot and kill him years later right after she got the reconstructive surgery. And who can forget The Carver? Not a killer, but an image-driven, non-beauty crusader who tormented Miami by slicing plastic surgery patients across both cheeks, rendering their faces in a permanent smile! And, of course, there was the moment that started it all: Christian giving Julia, his best friend and business partner's wife, a "breast consultation" in her living room, in the FIRST EPISODE!!
It's not just what happens on the show that gets my blood pumping, it's what they characters say. I often find myself with my jaw on the ground, hands on my head in disbelief. Each character has such conviction, such weight when they speak. Sean so earnest and raw, Julia so severe and hard, Christian so calculated and rude. The acting is not always superb, but what the actors do is a superb job of bringing the scripts to life.
There's one character who shines more than any other, truly the brightest and most alluring gem atop the crown. She is the perfect 10 (an 8 before McNamara/Troy got their hands on her). She is Kimber Henry.
Kimber is the best. There is really no debate. Sure, I love Liz's candid, brash snarkiness and I certainly couldn't get enough of Ava, but Kimber? I mean, (as the darling Jenn Jarecki would say) there are just no words. She's ever-changing, yet graceful - a true model. Maybe it's because she's been touched up so many times, but she has this way of constantly reinventing herself. I mean, basically that's what this whole show does: every season it reboots itself, it starts back where it started, but everything's changed. Kimber is a perfect example of this. She goes from party girl to porn goddess, from housewife to meth addict not seamlessly, but with blaring distinction. Every time she reenters the plot she charges the show with the energy of a brand new white hot character. But she's always the same. You may not have read it here first, but Kelly Carlson dances brilliantly through the best recurring role on television.
Nip/Tuck is in its fifth season on F/X. McNamara/Troy has hit Hollywood, and I assure you it's all-new. Tuesdays at 10pm.
I'll admit it, because it keeps going further and further into outrageousness, my feelings for the show have sometimes been lackluster. Like Season 4, for instance. Julia and Sean getting back together and having the lobster-claw baby was a little unbelievable for me. For those of you that haven't seen it, babies with lobster-claws is the type of shit that comes up on this show.
But usually the outlandish plot twists are anything but lackluster. Highlights include the morbidly obese woman who spent so many years on her couch that her body began to absorb the upholstery. And there's the one with the gay guy and his fag-hag who were drunk and depressed and decided to shoot each other in the face, but she didn't shoot because she was too in love with him, but he did shoot and mangled her face, only to have her shoot and kill him years later right after she got the reconstructive surgery. And who can forget The Carver? Not a killer, but an image-driven, non-beauty crusader who tormented Miami by slicing plastic surgery patients across both cheeks, rendering their faces in a permanent smile! And, of course, there was the moment that started it all: Christian giving Julia, his best friend and business partner's wife, a "breast consultation" in her living room, in the FIRST EPISODE!!
It's not just what happens on the show that gets my blood pumping, it's what they characters say. I often find myself with my jaw on the ground, hands on my head in disbelief. Each character has such conviction, such weight when they speak. Sean so earnest and raw, Julia so severe and hard, Christian so calculated and rude. The acting is not always superb, but what the actors do is a superb job of bringing the scripts to life.
There's one character who shines more than any other, truly the brightest and most alluring gem atop the crown. She is the perfect 10 (an 8 before McNamara/Troy got their hands on her). She is Kimber Henry.
Kimber is the best. There is really no debate. Sure, I love Liz's candid, brash snarkiness and I certainly couldn't get enough of Ava, but Kimber? I mean, (as the darling Jenn Jarecki would say) there are just no words. She's ever-changing, yet graceful - a true model. Maybe it's because she's been touched up so many times, but she has this way of constantly reinventing herself. I mean, basically that's what this whole show does: every season it reboots itself, it starts back where it started, but everything's changed. Kimber is a perfect example of this. She goes from party girl to porn goddess, from housewife to meth addict not seamlessly, but with blaring distinction. Every time she reenters the plot she charges the show with the energy of a brand new white hot character. But she's always the same. You may not have read it here first, but Kelly Carlson dances brilliantly through the best recurring role on television.
Nip/Tuck is in its fifth season on F/X. McNamara/Troy has hit Hollywood, and I assure you it's all-new. Tuesdays at 10pm.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Telly on Telly: O'er Hills and Dale
I just don't get it. Last week everyone from Patrick Conn to Perez Hilton was absolutely baffled by The Hills. People have been all abuzz about LC's nail polish, Audrina's lack of a job, "and did you know that they don't even live in the apartment anymore?" I only have one thing to say to all these people who are completely dumbfounded with the construction of MTV's best reality program:
NO DUH!
The first clue (and this was in the first episode people!) was that the month The Hills premiered on MTV Lauren Conrad herself, the newly hired intern at Teen Vogue, graced the cover of that same mag. Ummmm.... I don't know about you, but where I come from lowly interns are not covergirls. Correct me if you know otherwise.
I did an interesting thing last month. Having just admitted that I enjoy The Hills but never having seen Laguna Beach, I decided to watch the first two seasons. I did not watch to be entertained, however. I watched with an analytical eye and let me tell you, the structure is very much there. It's pretty much blinding when you look for it. You should try it: go back and watch these shows. Imagine if MTV came to your highschool and selected the most interesting and beautiful creatures to be filmed. I'm sure it would more than resemble Laguna.
Where is The Hills going to go from here? Now that the secret's out what will happen to the livelihood of the show? Will we still watch? Has it lost it's appeal? Do we care what happens now that we know it's not actually happening?
In a related/unrelated point, I want to clear the air and let you know what "team" I'm on. You know how it is - Team Heidi, Team Lauren, the wildcard Team Audrina... To be honest, I don't really care all that much. All I know is Lauren was hurt and Heidi and Spencer are worthless. I know Audrina's not a true friend and to be honest, I can't spend too much time thinking about (or spending time with) any of these people. So, from this day forward I form TEAM LO - for all those who throw sass, and only stop in every couple of weeks for the party, for those of us who've know LC from the beginning and stick around because we love her, and (most importantly) for those who judge harshly without hesitation or concern for feelings. Long live LO!
What team are YOU on?
In conclusion I am going to leave you with my true feelings: At the end of the day, I don't really like The Hills...
I love it.
Telly on Telly: The List
I realized this weekend (with the help of fellow bloggers) that I should publish my list here on the blog so that you folks can know what to expect, or even suggest items on the list you'd like me to blog about!
Here she is, in no particular order:
Lost
The Tudors
Jamie At Home
Everyday Italian
Forever Summer
Nigella Feasts
Giada's Weekend Getaways
Top Chef
Project Runway
Nip/Tuck
Big Love
Six Feet Under
Entourage
Sex and The City
Da Ali G Show
Ugly Betty
Ed vs. Spencer
The Powerpuff Girls
So You Think You Can Dance
Tracey Takes On...
The Golden Girls
My Super Sweet 16
The Sarah Silverman Program
Match Game
Full House
Recess
Arrested Development
8th & Ocean
Jonny Quest
Maui Fever
Absolutely Fabulous
Seinfeld
The Naked Truth
Soul Train
Gossip Girl
Once and Again
Saved By the Bell
What Not To Wear
Punk'd
The Simpsons
Wacky Races
Aeon Flux
Strangers With Candy
Jeopardy!
Anything with The Duggar Family
Dance 360
The Magic School Bus
Weeds
The Colbert Report
Yo Momma
Lingo
Engaged and Underage
Party of Five
Planet Earth
Stella
Flavor of Love
The Hills
Avatar: The Last Airbender
The Fabulous Life Of...
Tiny Toon Adventures
Cheaters
Neon Genesis Evangelion
Wonder Showzen
The Office
Little Britain
Mad Men
Cashmere Mafia
Jon & Kate Plus Eight
Chelsea Lately
Summer Heights High
Brothers & Sisters
The Biggest Loser
The Riches
The Girls Next Door
Melrose Place
Unscripted
The Comeback
Here she is, in no particular order:
Lost
The Tudors
Jamie At Home
Everyday Italian
Forever Summer
Nigella Feasts
Giada's Weekend Getaways
Top Chef
Project Runway
Nip/Tuck
Big Love
Six Feet Under
Entourage
Sex and The City
Da Ali G Show
Ugly Betty
Ed vs. Spencer
The Powerpuff Girls
So You Think You Can Dance
Tracey Takes On...
The Golden Girls
My Super Sweet 16
The Sarah Silverman Program
Match Game
Full House
Recess
Arrested Development
8th & Ocean
Jonny Quest
Maui Fever
Absolutely Fabulous
Seinfeld
The Naked Truth
Soul Train
Gossip Girl
Once and Again
Saved By the Bell
What Not To Wear
Punk'd
The Simpsons
Wacky Races
Aeon Flux
Strangers With Candy
Jeopardy!
Anything with The Duggar Family
Dance 360
The Magic School Bus
Weeds
The Colbert Report
Yo Momma
Lingo
Engaged and Underage
Party of Five
Planet Earth
Stella
Flavor of Love
The Hills
Avatar: The Last Airbender
The Fabulous Life Of...
Tiny Toon Adventures
Cheaters
Neon Genesis Evangelion
Wonder Showzen
The Office
Little Britain
Mad Men
Cashmere Mafia
Jon & Kate Plus Eight
Chelsea Lately
Summer Heights High
Brothers & Sisters
The Biggest Loser
The Riches
The Girls Next Door
Melrose Place
Unscripted
The Comeback
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Telly on Telly: Introduction
I'm sorry it's been so long since my last post. I know a lot of you loyal readers out there have been holding your breath. Or is that breaths?
You may have noticed my facebook profile recently. I usually like to mix up my personal info on my profile: change my interests to these really trivial and funny things I've been thinking about, write down the movies I've recently seen in theatres, just keep it fresh and simple, always changing, never too long, you know? But all that's changed now. I'm making a list. The one list that will define so much of who I am now and who I have been all my life. I am making my ultimate, mega, supra list of favo(u)rite television shows. One that continues to grow, and will until the day I die.
I don't know why I started it, but it's a part of my life now. I frequently find myself in the middle of something that should be requiring my complete attention (like sleep) and I'll stop everything when I remember that I've always loved Tiny Toon Adventures (and always will) and it's not on the list yet. (Don't worry it's there now)
I have mentioned a small number of these shows already (Avatar, The Tudors) but over the next few weeks I would like to introduce you to some of the gems of my list and perhaps explain to you why the show made the list and what makes me love it!
I will be calling this series Telly on Telly. Enjoy.
You may have noticed my facebook profile recently. I usually like to mix up my personal info on my profile: change my interests to these really trivial and funny things I've been thinking about, write down the movies I've recently seen in theatres, just keep it fresh and simple, always changing, never too long, you know? But all that's changed now. I'm making a list. The one list that will define so much of who I am now and who I have been all my life. I am making my ultimate, mega, supra list of favo(u)rite television shows. One that continues to grow, and will until the day I die.
I don't know why I started it, but it's a part of my life now. I frequently find myself in the middle of something that should be requiring my complete attention (like sleep) and I'll stop everything when I remember that I've always loved Tiny Toon Adventures (and always will) and it's not on the list yet. (Don't worry it's there now)
I have mentioned a small number of these shows already (Avatar, The Tudors) but over the next few weeks I would like to introduce you to some of the gems of my list and perhaps explain to you why the show made the list and what makes me love it!
I will be calling this series Telly on Telly. Enjoy.
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