Three days until lift off…

Some bags are packed. I will be attending my very last games of golf, fitness classes, etc. over the next three days and then we will leave dark and early on Wednesday morning to start our drive north. Sigh… it will be wonderful to see family and friends again, but the skies will likely be grey and the weather a little chilly. Meanwhile, here are some viewing suggestions for you:

Live on Stage at the Gulfshore Playhouse

She Loves Me by Harnick and Bock. A wonderful revival of the Broadway musical, and our last production at the old theatre before the new theatre opens next Fall. We have booked our Flex passes for next season.

Movie Club

Two for the Road (1 h 51 m) Starring Audrey Hepburn and Albert Finney. Made in 1967, this non-sequential story was way ahead of its time as it traces 10 years in the marriage of this gorgeous couple as they motor around Europe. Beautiful scenery and nostalgic glimpses of an era gone by as telephones are brought to restaurant tables, cigarettes are distributed on airplanes, and cars are driven onto air ferries. Watch for Jaqueline Bisset’s debut as a beautiful choir girl, and be prepared to be moved by the poignancy of this romance as they weather the storms of infidelity, career pressures and parenthood. There is a lush musical score by Henry Mancini that underlies the entire movie. One of my favourite films of all time, and gratifyingly, none of the movie group had seen it before as it wasn’t an unqualified success when it was first released.

AMC

Parish (6 episodes) Follows a taxi driver whose life is turned upside down when he agrees to pick-up a Zimbabwean gangster mostly known for exploiting undocumented immigrants at the U.S. southern ports. Stars Giancarlo Esposito, Paula Malcomson, Skeet Ulrich. Looks very noir (from the network that brought you Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul), so far.

Apple

Sugar (8 episodes) Private investigator John Sugar examines the mysterious disappearance of Olivia Siegel, the granddaughter of a legendary Hollywood producer. Stars Colin Farrell, Amy Ryan, Nate Corddry, James Cromwell, Anna Gunn. Fabulous and spellbinding! Noir to the max!

Palm Royale (10 episodes) An ambitious woman schemes to secure her seat at America’s most exclusive table: Palm Beach high society circa 1969. Stars Kristen Wiig, Ricky Martin, Josh Lucas, Laura Dern, Allison Janney, Carole Burnett. Delightful!

Constellation (8 episodes) Jo returns to earth after a disaster in space and discovers that there are missing pieces in her life, so she sets out to expose the truth about the hidden secrets of space travel and recover what she has lost. Stars Noomi Rapace Jonathan Banks, James D’Arcy. Haunting and mesmerizing.

The New Look  (10 episodes) Explores the rise of fashion designer Christian Dior as he dethrones Coco Chanel and helps return spirit and life to the world with his iconic imprint of beauty and influence. Stars Ben Mendelsohn and Juliette Binoche and Maisie Williams. I love this series!!!

Manhunt (7 episodes) The aftermath of the first American presidential assassination and the fight to preserve and protect the ideals that were the foundation of Lincoln’s Reconstruction plans. Tobias Menzies and Anthony Boyle (Masters of the Air) star. Just finished watching this and found it very instructive about the difficulties of Reconstruction.

CBS

FBI, FBI International, FBI Most Wanted (Ok, this is all rather formulaic stuff, but I get a hoot out of the incredibly flat acting of all three series, which I think of as Original, Crispy and Extra Crispy). So amazing that the FBI can solve every case within a 1 hr time period. It is the formula that viewers respond so warmly to on the Mother Ship series Law & Order and all its spin-offs.

Elsbeth (10 episodes) Elsbeth Tascioni,, an unconventional attorney, gives her singular point of view to make observations to catch criminals alongside the NYPD. If you loved Carrie Preston on The Good Wife, The Good Fight, etc., you will love her ditzy persona in this. I love her!!!

CBS News Sunday Morning (since 1979, 827 episodes) This is my Sunday morning mainstay as I find its magazine format extremely soothing featuring interviews with actors, political figures, athletes, musicians costume designers, fashion designers, etc. My moment of Zen.

60 Minutes (since 1968, 2198 episodes) Classic prime time TV Investigative news magazine. The hard version of CBS Sunday Morning.

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert(since 2015). Broadcasts from the Ed Sullivan theatre in New York. I love his monologues!

Comedy Central 

The Daily Show (since 1996 with several changes of host and hiatuses) It’s now back with Jon Stewart taking the host duties on Mondays and his regular anchors taking the other nights of the week. Political satire!!

FX

Shogun (10 episodes) When a mysterious European ship is found marooned in a nearby fishing village, Lord Yoshii Toranaga discovers secrets that could tip the scales and devastate his enemies. Stars Cosmo Jarvis. Absorbing!

NBC

Law & Order (892 episodes since 1990) Still solving crimes and bringing criminals to justice!!! Now starring Hugh Dancy and Reid Scott! I never watched this show in its heyday, but now I can’t resist its torn from the headlines plots. Spoiler alert: Sam Waterston has left the show after 30 years in the same role and was replaced by Tony Goldwyn who seems like kind of a snake in his early appearances!!!

Jeopardy (Nightly, 8892 episodes) I just realized that in Naples, this syndicated show appears on NBC! Ken Jennings is back hosting! The Invitational Tournament is now in full swing. Enjoy!!

Netflix

Baby Reindeer (7 episodes) The story follows the writer and performer Richard Gadd’s warped relatiohship with his female stalker and the impact it has on him as he is ultimately forced to face a deep dark buried trauma.

Midsummer Night (5 episodes) Carina brings her family together for a traditional Swedish midsummer, but the happy occasion goes awry when long-held secrets start to come to light. I wonder how the Scandinavians feel about this one which seems to cover every possible cliche about how we see Scandi culture.

The Beautiful Game (2 h 5 m) Advocates to end homelessness, organize an annual tournament for homeless men to compete in a series of football matches known as The Homeless World Cup. Bill Nighy and Valeria Golina star in this very cliche riddled British feel good movie. I couldn’t watch the whole thing.

Rebel Moon – Part Two: The Scargiver (2 h 2 m) Kora and surviving warriors prepare to defend Veldt, their new home alongside its people against the Realm. The warriors face their pasts, revealing their motivations before the Realm’s forces arrive to crush the growing rebellion. I actually enjoyed Part One very much so I stayed tuned to this whole thing only to be ashamed of myself by the end. So much yelling!!!

PBS

 

Call the Midwife (returning for their fourteenth season) Chronicles the lives of a group of midwives living in East London from the 1950’s to 1960. Tear jerking!!!

Alice and Jack on Masterpiece (6 episodes) Follows the story of a 16-year relationship between two imperfect lovers and its highs and lows (stars Domhnall Gleeson and Andrea Riseborough) Enjoy!!!

Mr. Bates vs. the Post Office (4 episodes) One of the greatest miscarriages of justice in British legal history where hundreds of innocent sub-postmasters and postmistresses were wrongly accused of theft, fraud and false accounting due to a defective IT system. Stars Toby Jones and Monica Dolan. Great reviews for this one, and I thoroughly enjoyed it so far.

Streaming

12 Angry Men (1 h 36 m) It has been many years since I watched this 1957 classic jury room drama. starring an unbelievable cast that featured Henry Fonda, Lee J. Cobb, Martin Balsam, E.G.Marshall, Jack Klugman, Jack Warden, Ed Begley and others. I watched this in tribute to the recently completed jury selection in the first Trump case. The jury in a NYC murder trial is frustrated by a single member whose skeptical caution forces them to more carefully consider the evidence before jumping to a hasty verdict. Nominated for 3 Oscars in its day, I hope young viewers will give this black and white film a chance as it is now viewed as a masterpiece.

Closing Words

A fond farewell to those of you we sadly say goodbye to in Naples as we head north to Toronto and Thornbury to reconnect with friends and family there. My first golf game is scheduled for May 3, I’m hosting our trivia group on May 21 and I’m hoping to keep up my momentum with fitness activities when we get home. I’ll be converting my discussion group into a movie group and I can’t wait to get together with my Mahjong group. Safe travels to our friends who are also headed home. Have a wonderful summer season wherever you are!

Enjoy the trailer to Two for the Road:

Serious countdown mode…

We start our drive back to Toronto in 10 days. It will soon be the last round of golf, the last fitness class, the last sunset at the beach, the last concert at the clubhouse, etc. It has been a wonderful season and I am going to miss our friends and activities here. All good things must come to an end. Meanwhile, here are some viewing suggestions for you:

AMC

Parish (6 episodes) Follows a taxi driver whose life is turned upside down when he agrees to pick-up a Zimbabwean gangster mostly known for exploiting undocumented immigrants at the U.S. southern ports. Stars Giancarlo Esposito, Paula Malcomson, Skeet Ulrich. Looks very noir (from the network that brought you Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul), so far.

Apple

Sugar (8 episodes) Private investigator John Sugar examines the mysterious disappearance of Olivia Siegel, the granddaughter of a legendary Hollywood producer. Stars Colin Farrell, Amy Ryan, Nate Corddry, James Cromwell, Anna Gunn. Fabulous and spellbinding! Noir to the max!

Palm Royale (10 episodes) An ambitious woman schemes to secure her seat at America’s most exclusive table: Palm Beach high society circa 1969. Stars Kristen Wiig, Ricky Martin, Josh Lucas, Laura Dern, Allison Janney, Carole Burnett. Delightful!

Constellation (8 episodes) Jo returns to earth after a disaster in space and discovers that there are missing pieces in her life, so she sets out to expose the truth about the hidden secrets of space travel and recover what she has lost. Stars Noomi Rapace Jonathan Banks, James D’Arcy. Haunting and mesmerizing.

The New Look  (10 episodes) Explores the rise of fashion designer Christian Dior as he dethrones Coco Chanel and helps return spirit and life to the world with his iconic imprint of beauty and influence. Stars Ben Mendelsohn and Juliette Binoche and Maisie Williams. I love this series!!!

Manhunt (7 episodes) The aftermath of the first American presidential assassination and the fight to preserve and protect the ideals that were the foundation of Lincoln’s Reconstruction plans. Tobias Menzies and Anthony Boyle (Masters of the Air) star. Intriguing first two episodes!

CBS

FBI, FBI International, FBI Most Wanted (Ok, this is all rather formulaic stuff, but I get a hoot out of the incredibly flat acting of all three series, which I think of as Original, Crispy and Extra Crispy). So amazing that the FBI can solve every case within a 1 hr time period. It is the formula that viewers respond so warmly to on the Mother Ship series Law & Order and all its spin-offs.

Elsbeth (10 episodes) Elsbeth Tascioni,, an unconventional attorney, gives her singular point of view to make observations to catch criminals alongside the NYPD. If you loved Carrie Preston on The Good Wife, The Good Fight, etc., you will love her ditzy persona in this. I love her!!!

CBS News Sunday Morning (since 1979, 827 episodes) This is my Sunday morning mainstay as I find its magazine format extremely soothing featuring interviews with actors, political figures, athletes, musicians costume designers, fashion designers, etc. My moment of Zen.

60 Minutes (since 1968, 2198 episodes) Classic prime time TV Investigative news magazine. The hard version of CBS Sunday Morning.

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (since 2015). Broadcasts from the Ed Sullivan theatre in New York. I love his monologues!

Comedy Central 

The Daily Show (since 1996 with several changes of host and hiatuses) It’s now back with Jon Stewart taking the host duties on Mondays and his regular anchors taking the other nights of the week. Political satire!!

FX

Shogun (10 episodes) When a mysterious European ship is found marooned in a nearby fishing village, Lord Yoshii Toranaga discovers secrets that could tip the scales and devastate his enemies. Stars Cosmo Jarvis. So far, so good as I have watched the first two episodes. Absorbing!

NBC

Law & Order (892 episodes since 1990) Still solving crimes and bringing criminals to justice!!! Now starring Hugh Dancy and Reid Scott! I never watched this show in its heyday, but now I can’t resist its torn from the headlines plots. Spoiler alert: Sam Waterston has left the show after 30 years in the same role and was replaced by Tony Goldwyn who seems like kind of a snake in his early appearances!!!

Jeopardy (Nightly, 8892 episodes) I just realized that in Naples, this syndicated show appears on NBC! Ken Jennings is back hosting! The Invitational Tournament is now in full swing. Enjoy!!

Netflix

Ripley (8 episodes) A grifter named Ripley living in NYC during the 1960’s is hired by a wealthy man to bring his vagabond son home fro Italy. Stars Andrew Scott, Dakota Fanning, Johnny Flynn. Noir to the max! A masterpiece.

Scoop (1 h 42 m) How the BBC obtained the bombshell interview with Prince Andrew about his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Great cast includes Billie Piper, Romola Garai, Gillian Anderson, Keeley Hawes, Rufus Sewell. I loved this!!!

3 Body Problem  (8 episodes) A fateful decision made in 1960’s China reverberates in the present where a group of scientists partner with a detective to confront an existential planetary threat. Stars Liam Cunningham. For Science fiction lovers! 

PBS

 

Call the Midwife (returning for their fourteenth season) Chronicles the lives of a group of midwives living in East London from the 1950’s to 1960. Tear jerking!!!

Alice and Jack on Masterpiece (6 episodes) Follows the story of a 16-year relationship between two imperfect lovers and its highs and lows (stars Domhnall Gleeson and Andrea Riseborough) Enjoy!!!

Mr. Bates vs. the Post Office (4 episodes) One of the greatest miscarriages of justice in British legal history where hundreds of innocent sub-postmasters and postmistresses were wrongly accused of theft, fraud and false accounting due to a defective IT system. Stars Toby Jones and Monica Dolan. Great reviews for this one, and I thoroughly enjoyed the first episode.

Prime

American Rust (Season 2, 10 episodes) In a small rust belt town in southwest Pennsylvania, Chief of Police Del Harris investigates after a dead body turns up in an abandoned steel mill. Stars Jeff Daniels, Maura Tierney.

Fallout (8 episodes) In a future, post-apocalyptic Los Angeles brought about by nuclear decimation, citizens must live in underground bunkers to protect themselves from radiation, mutants and bandits. A thrill ride of a show! Stars Ella Purnell, Walton Goggins, Leslie Uggams. Absolutely loving it!!

Closing Words

George and I fell down a bit of a rabbit hole this past week as we watched Ripley in its entirety and have been squeezing in Fallout episodes when he’s not watching The Masters golf tournament. For your delectation, I attach trailers of each:

Ooh, lots of new content…

It’s been a great week with company, golf, bocce, dinners out, you know, the usual. Today we are off to see the new revival of cult classic musical She Loves Me (music by Harnick and Bock, composers of Fiddler on the Roof) at the Gulfshore Playhouse. Terrific reviews, can’t wait. There are also quite a few new shows debuting on AMC (Parish), Apple (Sugar), PBS (Mr. Bates vs. the Post Office), etc. Meanwhile here are some viewing suggestions for you:

AMC

Parish (6 episodes) Follows a taxi driver whose life is turned upside down when he agrees to pick-up a Zimbabwean gangster mostly known for exploiting undocumented immigrants at the U.S. southern ports. Stars Giancarlo Esposito, Paula Malcomson, Skeet Ulrich. Looks very noir (from the network that brought you Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul), so far.

Apple

Sugar (8 episodes, debuts this week) Private investigator John Sugar examines the mysterious disappearance of Olivia Siegel, the granddaughter of a legendary Hollywood producer. Stars Colin Farrell, Amy Ryan, Nate Corddry, James Cromwell, Anna Gunn.

Palm Royale (10 episodes) An ambitious woman schemes to secure her seat at America’s most exclusive table: Palm Beach high society circa 1969. Stars Kristen Wiig, Ricky Martin, Josh Lucas, Laura Dern, Allison Janney, Carole Burnett. Delightful!

Constellation (8 episodes) Jo returns to earth after a disaster in space and discovers that there are missing pieces in her life, so she sets out to expose the truth about the hidden secrets of space travel and recover what she has lost. Stars Noomi Rapace Jonathan Banks, James D’Arcy. Haunting and mesmerizing.

The New Look  (10 episodes) Explores the rise of fashion designer Christian Dior as he dethrones Coco Chanel and helps return spirit and life to the world with his iconic imprint of beauty and influence. Stars Ben Mendelsohn and Juliette Binoche and Maisie Williams. I love this series!!!

Manhunt (7 episodes) The aftermath of the first American presidential assassination and the fight to preserve and protect the ideals that were the foundation of Lincoln’s Reconstruction plans. Tobias Menzies and Anthony Boyle (Masters of the Air) star. Intriguing first two episodes!

Comedy Central 

The Daily Show (since 1996 with several changes of host and hiatuses) It’s now back with Jon Stewart taking the host duties on Mondays and his regular anchors taking the other nights of the week. Political satire!!

Disney

Renegade Nell (8 episodes) A quick-witted and courageous young woman framed for murder unexpectedly becomes the most notorious outlaw in 18th C England. When a magical spirit called Billy appears, Nell realizes her destiny is bigger than she ever imagined. Delightful! I binged the whole thing!! Probably not for everybody, as you have to be in the mood for a feel-good fantasy.

FX

Shogun (10 episodes) When a mysterious European ship is found marooned in a nearby fishing village, Lord Yoshii Toranaga discovers secrets that could tip the scales and devastate his enemies. Stars Cosmo Jarvis. So far, so good as I have watched the first two episodes. Absorbing!

Netflix

Scoop (1 h 42 m) How the BBC obtained the bombshell interview with Prince Andrew about his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Great cast includes Billie Piper, Romola Garai, Gillian Anderson, Keeley Hawes, Rufus Sewell. I loved this!!!

3 Body Problem  (8 episodes) A fateful decision made in 1960’s China reverberates in the present where a group of scientists partner with a detective to confront an existential planetary threat. Stars Liam Cunningham. For Science fiction lovers! 

CBS

FBI, FBI International, FBI Most Wanted (Ok, this is all rather formulaic stuff, but I get a hoot out of the incredibly flat acting of all three series, which I think of as Original, Crispy and Extra Crispy). So amazing that the FBI can solve every case within a 1 hr time period. It is the formula that viewers respond so warmly to on the Mother Ship series Law & Order and all its spin-offs.

Elsbeth (10 episodes) Elsbeth Tascioni,, an unconventional attorney, gives her singular point of view to make observations to catch criminals alongside the NYPD. If you loved Carrie Preston on The Good Wife, The Good Fight, etc., you will love her ditzy persona in this. I love her!!!

CBS News Sunday Morning (since 1979, 827 episodes) This is my Sunday morning mainstay as I find its magazine format extremely soothing featuring interviews with actors, political figures, athletes, musicians costume designers, fashion designers, etc. My moment of Zen.

60 Minutes (since 1968, 2198 episodes) Classic prime time TV Investigative news magazine. The hard version of CBS Sunday Morning.

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (since 2015). Broadcasts from the Ed Sullivan theatre in New York. I love his monologues!

HBO/MAX

The Regime (6 episodes) Kate Winslet stars in this limited series as the Chancellor of an unnamed Central European nation that is unraveling being the palace walls.

Curb Your Enthusiasm (10 episodes) Larry David stars as an over-the-top version of himself in this comedy series that shows how seemingly trivial details of day-to-day life can precipitate a catastrophic chain of events. Cringe comedy!

Last Week Tonight with Jon Oliver and Real Time with Bill Maher both continue their runs on HBO satirizing politics and current events.

Tokyo Vice (Returned for a second season of 10 episodes) Hired as Meicho Shibun’s first American crime reporter, Jake Edelstein is quickly tasked with covering two cases the initially appear unrelated, but soon stakes his career – and life – on connecting the dots. Ansel Elgort’s Japanese seems pretty good to me! Last episode just aired and it was wonderful!!!

NBC

Law & Order (892 episodes since 1990) Still solving crimes and bringing criminals to justice!!! Now starring Hugh Dancy and Reid Scott! I never watched this show in its heyday, but now I can’t resist its torn from the headlines plots. Spoiler alert: Sam Waterston has left the show after 30 years in the same role and was replaced by Tony Goldwyn who seems like kind of a snake in his early appearances!!!

Jeopardy (Nightly, 8892 episodes) I just realized that in Naples, this syndicated show appears on NBC! Ken Jennings is back hosting! The Invitational Tournament is now in full swing. Enjoy!!

PBS

 

Call the Midwife (returning for their fourteenth season) Chronicles the lives of a group of midwives living in East London from the 1950’s to 1960. Tear jerking!!!

Nolly on Masterpiece (3 episodes) Exploring the rise and fall from grace of the inimitable British soap star, Noele Gordon (played by Helena Bonham Carter). 

Alice and Jack on Masterpiece (6 episodes) Follows the story of a 16-year relationship between two imperfect lovers and its highs and lows (stars Domhnall Gleeson and Andrea Riseborough) Enjoy!!!

Mr. Bates vs. the Post Office (4 episodes) One of the greatest miscarriages of justice in British legal history where hundreds of innocent sub-postmasters and postmistresses were wrongly accused of theft, fraud and false accounting due to a defective IT system. Stars Toby Jones and Monica Dolan. Great reviews for this one, which starts tonight.

Prime

American Rust (Season 2, 10 episodes) In a small rust belt town in southwest Pennsylvania, Chief of Police Del Harris investigates after a dead body turns up in an abandoned steel mill. Stars Jeff Daniels, Maura Tierney.

Streaming

Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent (10 episodes) Follows a squad of elite investigators who investigate corruption and high-level criminality in the Greter Toronto area. What a hoot! Toronto is playing itself in this one. Look for all the familiar and unfamiliar landmarks and references. The skyline as seen from the RCYC clubhouse, locations in the Kingsway and Rosedale. Aden Young is the most recognizable actor in the lead role, although employment is given to countless Canadian actors in smaller roles.

Closing Words

Hope everyone has a wonderful week wherever you are. I hear it’s still a little unpredictable up north what with earthquakes, floods, snowstorms, solar eclipses, etc. Three week countdown before heading north has started for us! Here’s a trailer for Mr. Bates vs the Post Office, debuting tonight on PBS:

Company coming today…

It’s Easter Sunday and friends are arriving to spend the next few days with us. Hoping to do a little touring, shopping and relaxing with them. Meanwhile Bocce, golf, trivia, fitness activities continue. In the meantime, here are some viewing suggestions for you:

Apple

Palm Royale (10 episodes) An ambitious woman schemes to secure her seat at America’s most exclusive table: Palm Beach high society circa 1969. Stars Kristen Wiig, Ricky Martin, Josh Lucas, Laura Dern, Allison Janney, Carole Burnett. Delightful!

Constellation (8 episodes) Jo returns to earth after a disaster in space and discovers that there are missing pieces in her life, so she sets out to expose the truth about the hidden secrets of space travel and recover what she has lost. Stars Noomi Rapace Jonathan Banks, James D’Arcy. Haunting and mesmerizing.

The New Look  (10 episodes) Explores the rise of fashion designer Christian Dior as he dethrones Coco Chanel and helps return spirit and life to the world with his iconic imprint of beauty and influence. Stars Ben Mendelsohn and Juliette Binoche and Maisie Williams. I love this series!!!

Manhunt (7 episodes) The aftermath of the first American presidential assassination and the fight to preserve and protect the ideals that were the foundation of Lincoln’s Reconstruction plans. Tobias Menzies and Anthony Boyle (Masters of the Air) star. Intriguing first two episodes!

CBS

FBI, FBI International, FBI Most Wanted (Ok, this is all rather formulaic stuff, but I get a hoot out of the incredibly flat acting of all three series, which I think of as Original, Crispy and Extra Crispy). So amazing that the FBI can solve every case within a 1 hr time period. It is the formula that viewers respond so warmly to on the Mother Ship series Law & Order and all its spin-offs.

Elsbeth (10 episodes) Elsbeth Tascioni,, an unconventional attorney, gives her singular point of view to make observations to catch criminals alongside the NYPD. If you loved Carrie Preston on The Good Wife, The Good Fight, etc., you will love her ditzy persona in this. I love her!!!

CBS News Sunday Morning (since 1979, 827 episodes) This is my Sunday morning mainstay as I find its magazine format extremely soothing featuring interviews with actors, political figures, athletes, musicians costume designers, fashion designers, etc. My moment of Zen.

60 Minutes (since 1968, 2198 episodes) Classic prime time TV Investigative news magazine. The hard version of CBS Sunday Morning.

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (since 2015). Broadcasts from the Ed Sullivan theatre in New York. I love his monologues!

Comedy Central 

The Daily Show (since 1996 with several changes of host and hiatuses) It’s now back with Jon Stewart taking the host duties on Mondays and his regular anchors taking the other nights of the week. Political satire!!

Disney

Renegade Nell (8 episodes) A quick-witted and courageous young woman framed for murder unexpectedly becomes the most notorious outlaw in 18th C England. When a magical spirit called Billy appears, Nell realizes her destiny is bigger than she ever imagined. Delightful! I binged the whole thing!! Probably not for everybody, as you have to be in the mood for a feel-good fantasy.

FX

Shogun (10 episodes) When a mysterious European ship is found marooned in a nearby fishing village, Lord Yoshii Toranaga discovers secrets that could tip the scales and devastate his enemies. Stars Cosmo Jarvis. So far, so good as I have watched the first two episodes. Absorbing!

HBO/MAX

The Girls on the Bus (10 episodes) Four female journalists who follow the every move of a parade of flawed presidential candidates, finding friendship, love, and a scandal that could take down not just the presidency but our entire democracy along the way. Stars Melissa Benoist and Carla Gugino. I watched the first two episodes and found it flawed and cliched, but still watchable.

Tokyo Vice (Returns for a second season of 10 episodes) Hired as Meicho Shibun’s first American crime reporter, Jake Edelstein is quickly tasked with covering two cases the initially appear unrelated, but soon stakes his career – and life – on connecting the dots. Ansel Elgort’s Japanese seems pretty good to me!

The Regime (6 episodes) Kate Winslet stars in this limited series as the Chancellor of an unnamed Central European nation that is unraveling being the palace walls.

Curb Your Enthusiasm (10 episodes) Larry David stars as an over-the-top version of himself in this comedy series that shows how seemingly trivial details of day-to-day life can precipitate a catastrophic chain of events. Cringe comedy!

Last Week Tonight with Jon Oliver and Real Time with Bill Maher both continue their runs on HBO satirizing politics and current events.

NBC

Law & Order (892 episodes since 1990) Still solving crimes and bringing criminals to justice!!! Now starring Hugh Dancy and Reid Scott! I never watched this show in its heyday, but now I can’t resist its torn from the headlines plots. Spoiler alert: Sam Waterston has left the show after 30 years in the same role and was replaced by Tony Goldwyn who seems like kind of a snake in his first appearance!!!

Jeopardy (Nightly, 8892 episodes) I just realized that in Naples, this syndicated show appears on NBC! Ken Jennings is back hosting! The Invitational Tournament is now in full swing. Enjoy!!

Netflix

3 Body Problem (8 episodes) A fateful decision made in 1960’s China reverberates in the present where a group of scientists partner with a detective to confront an existential planetary threat. Stars Liam Cunningham. For Science fiction lovers! 

Testament: The Story of Moses (3 episodes) Well it is Passover after all. Explore the life of Moses, his journey from outcast and murderer to prophet and liberator of the Hebrews from Egyptian oppression. Not bad. Narrated by Charles Dance.

Black Crab (1 h 54 m) In a post-apocalyptic world, six soldiers on a covert mission must transport a mysterious package across a frozen archipelago. Noomi Rapace stars. So weird. I can’t believe I watched the whole thing.

PBS 

Call the Midwife (returning for their fourteenth season) Chronicles the lives of a group of midwives living in East London from the 1950’s to 1960. Tear jerking!!!

Nolly on Masterpiece (3 episodes) Exploring the rise and fall from grace of the inimitable British soap star, Noele Gordon (played by Helena Bonham Carter). 

Alice and Jack on Masterpiece (6 episodes) Follows the story of a 16-year relationship between two imperfect lovers and its highs and lows (stars Domhnall Gleeson and Andrea Riseborough) Enjoy!!!

Streaming

Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent (10 episodes) Follows a squad of elite investigators who investigate corruption and high-level criminality in the Greter Toronto area. What a hoot! Toronto is playing itself in this one. Look for all the familiar and unfamiliar landmarks and references. The skyline as seen from the RCYC clubhouse, locations in the Kingsway and Rosedale. Aden Young is the most recognizable actor in the lead role, although employment is given to countless Canadian actors in smaller roles.

Prime

Road House (2 h 1 m) Ex-UFC fighter Dalton takes a job as a bouncer at a Florida keys roadhouse, only to discover that this paradise is not all it seems. Stars Jake Gyllenhaal, Conor McGregor, Billy Magnussen, Jessica Williams. Non-stop violence and cartoonish performances from all. I can’t believe I watched the whole thing!

Closing Words

Hoping you all have a peaceful and healthy Easter and Passover!! Special shoutout to all friends who are experiencing health issues at this time.

The season is wrapping up…

Bocce season is coming to a close, as is golf season and final dinners have been scheduled. I will host my last movie club in a new weeks, and today we are looking forward to the Treviso Bay Choir final performance. It’s kind of sad, but it has been a great season. Meanwhile, here are a few viewing suggestions for you:

Live on Stage

Six the Musical (at Artis Naples) The British mnemonic device for remembering the 6 wives of Henry VIII is as follows:

Divorced (Catherine of Aragon)

Beheaded (Anne Boleyn)

Died (Jane Seymour)

Divorced (Anne of Cleves)

Beheaded (Katherine Howard)

Survived (Catherine Parr)

The musical brings all 6 to life as they tell their stories to very contemporary music. Lively, but I found it a little long at only 80 minutes. Not in the same league as many other contemporary musicals we’ve seen lately including &Juliet, Moulin Rouge, Tina, etc. Always nice to celebrate musical theatre at Artis Naples.

ABC

Will Trent (Season 2, 8 episodes) Special Agent Will Trent was abandoned at birth and endured a harsh coming-of-age in Atlanta’s overwhelmed foster care system. Determined to make sure no one feels as he did, he now has the highest clearance rate. So eccentric!

Abbott Elementary (Mockumentary, 50 episodes) If you’re not watching this workplace comedy, you are missing something truly delightful. Great cast, great scripts.

The Good Doctor (126 episodes) The autistic surgeon is now married with a baby!!

Apple

Masters of the Air (9 episodes) During WWII, five miles above the ground and behind enemy lines ten men inside a bomber known as a “Flying Fortress” battle unrelenting flocks of German fighters. Stars Austin Butler and Callum Turner (and newcomer Barry Keoghan, from Saltburn) lead a terrific ensemble cast. I was really transported by this period piece which features incredible scenes of the B-17’s in action. An Apple Original Series from Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks, and Gary Goetzman – the producers of Band of Brothers and The Pacific. During WWII, airmen risk their lives with the 100th Bomb Group, a brotherhood forged by courage, loss, and triumph.

Constellation (8 episodes) Jo returns to earth after a disaster in space and discovers that there are missing pieces in her life, so she sets out to expose the truth about the hidden secrets of space travel and recover what she has lost. Stars Noomi Rapace Jonathan Banks, James D’Arcy. Haunting and mesmerizing.

The New Look  (10 episodes) Explores the rise of fashion designer Christian Dior as he dethrones Coco Chanel and helps return spirit and life to the world with his iconic imprint of beauty and influence. Stars Ben Mendelsohn and Juliette Binoche and Maisie Williams. I love this series!!!

Manhunt (7 episodes) The aftermath of the first American presidential assassination and the fight to preserve and protect the ideals that were the foundation of Lincoln’s Reconstruction plans. Tobias Menzies and Anthony Boyle (Masters of the Air) star. Intriguing first two episodes!

CBS

FBI, FBI International, FBI Most Wanted (Ok, this is all rather formulaic stuff, but I get a hoot out of the incredibly flat acting of all three series, which I think of as Original, Crispy and Extra Crispy). So amazing that the FBI can solve every case within a 1 hr time period. It is the formula that viewers respond so warmly to on the Mother Ship series Law & Order and all its spin-offs.

Elsbeth (10 episodes) Elsbeth Tascioni,, an unconventional attorney, gives her singular point of view to make observations to catch criminals alongside the NYPD. If you loved Carrie Preston on The Good Wife, The Good Fight, etc., you will love her ditzy persona in this. I love her!!!

CBS News Sunday Morning (since 1979, 827 episodes) This is my Sunday morning mainstay as I find its magazine format extremely soothing featuring interviews with actors, political figures, athletes, musicians costume designers, fashion designers, etc. My moment of Zen.

60 Minutes (since 1968, 2198 episodes) Classic prime time TV Investigative news magazine. The hard version of CBS Sunday Morning.

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (since 2015). Broadcasts from the Ed Sullivan theatre in New York. I love his monologues!

Comedy Central 

The Daily Show (since 1996 with several changes of host and hiatuses) It’s now back with Jon Stewart taking the host duties on Mondays and his regular anchors taking the other nights of the week. Political satire!!

FX

Feud: Capote vs The Swans (8 episodes) I watched or snoozed through all 8 episodes of this series which does feature an amazing cast of actresses playing Capote’s coterie of society women. I have stayed with the show which is almost unbearably melancholy as it follows Capote’s self-destructive path.

Shogun (10 episodes) When a mysterious European ship is found marooned in a nearby fishing village, Lord Yoshii Toranaga discovers secrets that could tip the scales and devastate his enemies. Stars Cosmo Jarvis. So far, so good as I have watched the first two episodes. Absorbing!

HBO/MAX

The Girls on the Bus (10 episodes) Four female journalists who follow the every move of a parade of flawed presidential candidates, finding friendship, love, and a scandal that could take down not just the presidency but our entire democracy along the way. Stars Melissa Benoist and Carla Gugino. I watched the first two episodes and found it flawed and cliched, but still watchable.

Tokyo Vice (Returns for a second season of 10 episodes) Hired as Meicho Shibun’s first American crime reporter, Jake Edelstein is quickly tasked with covering two cases the initially appear unrelated, but soon stakes his career – and life – on connecting the dots. Ansel Elgort’s Japanese seems pretty good to me!

The Regime (6 episodes) Kate Winslet stars in this limited series as the Chancellor of an unnamed Central European nation that is unraveling being the palace walls.

Curb Your Enthusiasm (10 episodes) Larry David stars as an over-the-top version of himself in this comedy series that shows how seemingly trivial details of day-to-day life can precipitate a catastrophic chain of events. Cringe comedy!

Last Week Tonight with Jon Oliver and Real Time with Bill Maher both continue their runs on HBO satirizing politics and current events.

NBC

Law & Order (892 episodes since 1990) Still solving crimes and bringing criminals to justice!!! Now starring Hugh Dancy and Reid Scott! I never watched this show in its heyday, but now I can’t resist its torn from the headlines plots. Spoiler alert: Sam Waterston has left the show after 30 years in the same role and was replaced by Tony Goldwyn who seems like kind of a snake in his first appearance!!!

Jeopardy (Nightly, 8892 episodes) I just realized that in Naples, this syndicated show appears on NBC! Ken Jennings is back hosting! The Invitational Tournament is now in full swing. Enjoy!!

PBS 

Call the Midwife (returning for their fourteenth season) Chronicles the lives of a group of midwives living in East London from the 1950’s to 1960. Tear jerking!!!

Nolly on Masterpiece (3 episodes) Exploring the rise and fall from grace of the inimitable British soap star, Noele Gordon (played by Helena Bonham Carter). 

Alice and Jack on Masterpiece (6 episodes) Follows the story of a 16-year relationship between two imperfect lovers and its highs and lows (stars Domhnall Gleeson and Andrea Riseborough) Enjoy!!!

Netflix

The Guv’nor (1 h 25 m) A feature documentary about the life of Lenny McLean, as seen through the eyes of his only son, Jamie. If you like Guy Ritchie films, this doc is for you as it’s about a typical street criminals rise in the East End of London.

Irish Wish (1 h 33 m) I watched this very silly romantic comedy on St. Patrick’s Day. When the love of Maddie’s life gets engaged to her best friend, she puts her feelings aside to be a bridesmaid at their wedding in Ireland. Lindsay Lohan is actually pretty good in this and there is beautiful footage of Ireland.

3 Body Problem (8 episodes) A fateful decision made in 1960’s China reverberates in the present where a group of scientists partner with a detective to confront an existential planetary threat. Stars Liam Cunningham. For Science fiction lovers!

Sex Education (32 episodes) A teenage boy with a sex therapist mother teams up with a high school classmate to set up an underground sex therapy clinic at school. I resisted watching this teen comedy when it first came out, but have actually enjoyed watching it this past week. Asa Butterfield and Gillian Anderson star. Watch for Hannah Waddingham (Ted Lasso) and Anne-Marie Duff (Shameless) as moms and a surprisingly effective Jemima Kirke as an evil Head Teacher.

Closing Words

We just received word that our son David and his family will not be joining us in Naples because of recurring ear infections with our grandson. I am sad and was really looking forward to a visit with them, but we can now proceed to empty our fridge and pantry in preparation for closing the place down as we get ready to head home around April 24. For my last movie club, I am hoping to find All of us Strangers starring Andrew Scott, which has had rave reviews recently. Here is a trailer:

George is off to Orlando to play golf…

This is the 22nd year for George to head off to Orlando with his longtime buddies to play some golf. During that time I will be playing bocce, golf, going to fitness classes and maybe squeezing in a trip to the Everglades. I am going to host my movie club and will be showing Anatomy of a Fall, winner of the grand prize at Cannes and nominated for Best Film at the Oscars. Speaking of which, we had a lovely gathering for last week’s Academy Awards celebration and I thoroughly enjoyed the show. Meanwhile, here are some viewing suggestions for you:

ABC

Will Trent (Season 2, 8 episodes) Special Agent Will Trent was abandoned at birth and endured a harsh common-of-age in Atlanta’s overwhelmed foster care system. Determined to make sure no one feels as he did, he now has the highest clearance rate. So eccentric!

Abbott Elementary (Mockumentary, 50 episodes) If you’re not watching this workplace comedy, you are missing something truly delightful. Great cast, great scripts.

The Good Doctor (126 episodes) The autistic surgeon is now married with a baby!!

Apple

Masters of the Air (9 episodes) During WWII, five miles above the ground and behind enemy lines ten men inside a bomber known as a “Flying Fortress” battle unrelenting flocks of German fighters. Stars Austin Butler and Callum Turner (and newcomer Barry Keoghan, from Saltburn) lead a terrific ensemble cast. I was really transported by this period piece which features incredible scenes of the B-17’s in action. An Apple Original Series from Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks, and Gary Goetzman – the producers of Band of Brothers and The Pacific. During WWII, airmen risk their lives with the 100th Bomb Group, a brotherhood forged by courage, loss, and triumph.

Constellation (8 episodes) Jo returns to earth after a disaster in space and discovers that there are missing pieces in her life, so she sets out to expose the truth about the hidden secrets of space travel and recover what she has lost. Stars Noomi Rapace Jonathan Banks, James D’Arcy. Haunting and mesmerizing.

The New Look  (10 episodes) Explores the rise of fashion designer Christian Dior as he dethrones Coco Chanel and helps return spirit and life to the world with his iconic imprint of beauty and influence. Stars Ben Mendelsohn and Juliette Binoche and Maisie Williams. I love this series!!!

Manhunt (7 episodes) The aftermath of the first American presidential assassination and the fight to preserve and protect the ideals that were the foundation of Lincoln’s Reconstruction plans. Tobias Menzies and Anthony Boyle (Masters of the Air) star. Intriguing first two episodes!

CBS

FBI, FBI International, FBI Most Wanted (Ok, this is all rather formulaic stuff, but I get a hoot out of the incredibly flat acting of all three series, which I think of as Original, Crispy and Extra Crispy). So amazing that the FBI can solve every case within a 1 hr time period. It is the formula that viewers respond so warmly to on the Mother Ship series Law & Order and all its spin-offs.

Elsbeth (10 episodes) Elsbeth Tascioni,, an unconventional attorney, gives her singular point of view to make observations to catch criminals alongside the NYPD. If you loved Carrie Preston on The Good Wife, The Good Fight, etc., you will love her ditzy persona in this. I love her!!!

CBS News Sunday Morning (since 1979, 827 episodes) This is my Sunday morning mainstay as I find its magazine format extremely soothing featuring interviews with actors, political figures, athletes, musicians costume designers, fashion designers, etc. My moment of Zen.

60 Minutes (since 1968, 2198 episodes) Classic prime time TV Investigative news magazine. The hard version of CBS Sunday Morning.

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (since 2015). Broadcasts from the Ed Sullivan theatre in New York. I love his monologues!

Comedy Central

The Daily Show (since 1996 with several changes of host and hiatuses) It’s now back with Jon Stewart taking the host duties on Mondays and his regular anchors taking the other nights of the week. Political satire!!

FX

Feud: Capote vs The Swans (8 episodes) I watched or snoozed through all 8 episodes of this series which does feature an amazing cast of actresses playing Capote’s coterie of society women. I have stayed with the show which is almost unbearably melancholy as it follows Capote’s self-destructive path.

Shogun (10 episodes) When a mysterious European ship is found marooned in a nearby fishing village, Lord Yoshii Toranaga discovers secrets that could tip the scales and devastate his enemies. Stars Cosmo Jarvis. So far, so good as I have watched the first two episodes. Absorbing!

HBO/MAX

Tokyo Vice (Returns for a second season of 10 episodes) Hired as Meicho Shibun’s first American crime reporter, Jake Edelstein is quickly tasked with covering two cases the initially appear unrelated, but soon stakes his career – and life – on connecting the dots. Ansel Elgort’s Japanese seems pretty good to me!

The Regime (6 episodes) Kate Winslet stars in this limited series as the Chancellor of an unnamed Central European nation that is unraveling being the palace walls.

Curb Your Enthusiasm (10 episodes) Larry David stars as an over-the-top version of himself in this comedy series that shows how seemingly trivial details of day-to-day life can precipitate a catastrophic chain of events. Cringe comedy!

Last Week Tonight with Jon Oliver and Real Time with Bill Maher both continue their runs on HBO satirizing politics and current events.

NBC

Law & Order (892 episodes since 1990) Still solving crimes and bringing criminals to justice!!! Now starring Hugh Dancy and Reid Scott! I never watched this show in its heyday, but now I can’t resist its torn from the headlines plots. Spoiler alert: Sam Waterston has left the show after 30 years in the same role and was replaced by Tony Goldwyn who seems like kind of a snake in his first appearance!!!

Jeopardy (Nightly, 8892 episodes) I just realized that in Naples, this syndicated show appears on NBC! Ken Jennings is back hosting! Tournament of Champions is in full swing. Enjoy!!

PBS

Tonight, three Sunday evening series begin new seasons starting with:

Call the Midwife (returning for their fourteenth season) Chronicles the lives of a group of midwives living in East London from the 1950’s to 1960. Tear jerking!!!

Nolly on Masterpiece (3 episodes) Exploring the rise and fall from grace of the inimitable British soap star, Noele Gordon (played by Helena Bonham Carter).

Alice and Jack on Masterpiece (6 episodes) Follows the story of a 16-year relationship between two imperfect lovers and its highs and lows (stars Domhnall Gleeson and Andrea Riseborough) Enjoy!!!

Closing Words

Given that the Katherine Middleton photoshopped family photo has taken over the airwaves in a controversy I really don’t understand, I thought I’d post Piers Morgan’s take on this (in all honesty, the British media basically killed Princess Diana, drove Megan and Harry from the UK and now they are harassing Kate at a very difficult point in her life, WTF?!):

It’s the most wonderful night of the year…

Of course, it’s because of The Oscars!!! Tonight on ABC starting at 7 pm! I hope you are still trying to catch up with the 10 nominated films:

The Holdovers

Past Lives

Anatomy of a Fall

Barbie

Oppenheimer

The Zone of Interest

Poor Things

Killers of the Flower Moon

American Fiction

Maestro

They are all worth seeing, so I hope you manage to catch at least a few of them. Of course, the smart money is probably Oppenheimer which is a true masterpiece, but all are worthy nominees. Enjoy!! Meanwhile, here are some viewing suggestions for you:

Netflix

Damsel (1 h 53 M) A dutiful damsel agrees to marry a handsome prince, only to find the royal family as recruited her as a sacrifice to repay an ancient debt. Dragons abound! Millie Bobby Brown is terrific in this. Totally enjoyed it!!

The Gentlemen (8 episodes) Eddie Horniman inherits a family estate, initially unaware it’s home to a drug empire run by a syndicate that has no plans to vacate. Theo James is wonderful in the lead role. James Bond casting director, look no further, he is a worthy candidate for the role!! Directed by Guy Ritchie who has great fun with this action/comedy/crime story. Vinnie Jones almost steals the movie as the faithful retainer. Also stars Daniel Ings, Joely Richardson, Ray Winstone, Giancarlo Esposito, etc.

The Abyss (from Sweden, 1 h 43 m, but seems much longer) I actually fell asleep during this Swedish action/disaster movie about a cave-in. Not a forte for the Swedes, unfortunately. Very understated.

Noise (Belgian, 1 h 29 m, but seems much longer) Another sleepy psychological thriller about a man who unveils dark family secrets. So dull and derivative.

Full Swing (Season 2, 8 episodes) OK, so I’m not the biggest fan of watching golf on TV, but I made an exception for this because I haven’t paid any attention to the whole Liv vs PGA controversy. This will totally fill you in. Plus you do get to see a lot of beautiful golf courses around the world.

ABC

Will Trent (Season 2, 8 episodes) Special Agent Will Trent was abandoned at birth and endured a harsh common-of-age in Atlanta’s overwhelmed foster care system. Determined to make sure no one feels as he did, he now has the highest clearance rate. So eccentric!

Abbott Elementary (Mockumentary, 50 episodes) If you’re not watching this workplace comedy, you are missing something truly delightful. Great cast, great scripts.

Apple

Masters of the Air (9 episodes) During WWII, five miles above the ground and behind enemy lines ten men inside a bomber known as a “Flying Fortress” battle unrelenting flocks of German fighters. Stars Austin Butler and Callum Turner (and newcomer Barry Keoghan, from Saltburn) lead a terrific ensemble cast. I was really transported by this period piece which features incredible scenes of the B-17’s in action. An Apple Original Series from Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks, and Gary Goetzman – the producers of Band of Brothers and The Pacific. During WWII, airmen risk their lives with the 100th Bomb Group, a brotherhood forged by courage, loss, and triumph.

 Constellation (8 episodes) Jo returns to earth after a disaster in space and discovers that there are missing pieces in her life, so she sets out to expose the truth about the hidden secrets of space travel and recover what she has lost. Stars Noomi Rapace Jonathan Banks, James D’Arcy. Haunting and mesmerizing.

The New Look  (10 episodes) Explores the rise of fashion designer Christian Dior as he dethrones Coco Chanel and helps return spirit and life to the world with his iconic imprint of beauty and influence. Stars Ben Mendelsohn and Juliette Binoche and Maisie Williams. I love this series!!!

CBS

FBI,  FBI International, FBI Most Wanted (Ok, this is all rather formulaic stuff, but I get a hoot out of the incredibly flat acting of all three series, which I think of as Original, Crispy and Extra Crispy). So amazing that the FBI can solve every case within a 1 hr time period. It is the formula that viewers respond so warmly to on the Mother Ship series Law & Order and all its spin-offs.

Elsbeth (10 episodes) Elsbeth Tascioni,, an unconventional attorney, gives her singular point of view to make observations to catch criminals alongside the NYPD. If you loved Carrie Preston on The Good Wife, The Good Fight, etc., you will love her ditzy persona in this. I love her!!!

FX

Feud: Capote vs The Swans (8 episodes) I can’t imagine watching all 8 episodes of this series which does feature an amazing cast of actresses playing Capote’s coterie of society women. Update: I have stayed with the show which is almost unbearably melancholy as it follows Capote’s self-destructive path.

Shogun (10 episodes) When a mysterious European ship is found marooned in a nearby fishing village, Lord Yoshii Toranaga discovers secrets that could tip the scales and devastate his enemies. Stars Cosmo Jarvis. So far, so good as I have watched the first two episodes. Absorbing!

HBO/MAX

Tokyo Vice (Returns for a second season of 10 episodes) Hired as Meicho Shibun’s first American crime reporter, Jake Edelstein is quickly tasked with covering two cases the initially appear unrelated, but soon stakes his career – and life – on connecting the dots. Ansel Elgort’s Japanese seems pretty good to me!

The Regime (6 episodes) Kate Winslet stars in this limited series as the Chancellor of an unnamed Central European nation that is unraveling being the palace walls.

Curb Your Enthusiasm (10 episodes) Larry David stars as an over-the-top version of himself in this comedy series that shows how seemingly trivial details of day-to-day life can precipitate a catastrophic chain of events. Cringe comedy!

NBC

Law & Order (892 episodes since 1990) Still solving crimes and bringing criminals to justice!!! Now starring Hugh Dancy and Reid Scott! I never watched this show in its heyday, but now I can’t resist its torn from the headlines plots. Spoiler alert: Sam Waterston is leaving the show after 30 years in the same role and is being replaced by Tony Goldwyn!!!

Jeopardy (Nightly, 8892 episodes) I just realized that in Naples, this syndicated show appears on NBC! Ken Jennings is back hosting! Tournament of Champions is in full swing. Enjoy!!

Closing Words

Fingers crossed for the best song category tonight. I favour the two nominees from Barbie:

What Was I Made For (sung by Billie Eilish)

I’m Just Ken (sadly, you can only watch this on You Tube, so look for the many versions there!

https://youtu.be/VDCnJHyMuyU?si=YSX79uCqtTdwJus4

Alone again…sigh…

Our son Jon flew back to Toronto on Friday night and I am missing him terribly. He was great company and we loved the fact that he loved to drive, including our one day outing to and from Miami, trips to the Everglades, etc. He was happy to shop locally, walk both the Naples and Marco Island beaches, go out to lovely restaurants for lunch and dinner, help with household projects, etc. Eagerly anticipating the arrival of our son and daughter-in-law and grandson in April. The baby gates around the pool are up already!! Meanwhile, Here are some viewing suggestions for you:

On the Big Screen

Dune Part 2 (2 h 46 m) Paul Atreides unites with Chani and the Fremen while seeking revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Stars Tijothee Chalamet, Zendaya Rebeca Ferguson, Javier Bardem, Josh Brolin. Loved this! Re-watch Dune Part 1 before seeing this. Chalamet and Zendaya are terrific!

Apple

Constellation (8 episodes) Jo returns to earth after a disaster in space and discovers that there are missing pieces in her life, so she sets out to expose the truth about the hidden secrets of space travel and recover what she has lost. Stars Noomi Rapace Jonathan Banks, James D’Arcy. Haunting and mesmerizing.

The New Look  (10 episodes) Explores the rise of fashion designer Christian Dior as he dethrones Coco Chanel and helps return spirit and life to the world with his iconic imprint of beauty and influence. Stars Ben Mendelsohn and Juliette Binoche and Maisie Williams. I love this series!!!

**The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin (6 episodes) Didn’t get around to watching this, but its available now.

Masters of the Air  (9 episodes) During WWII, five miles above the ground and behind enemy lines ten men inside a bomber known as a “Flying Fortress” battle unrelenting flocks of German fighters. Stars Austin Butler and Callum Turner (and newcomer Barry Keoghan, from Saltburn) lead a terrific ensemble cast. I was really transported by this period piece which features incredible scenes of the B-17’s in action. An Apple Original Series from Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks, and Gary Goetzman – the producers of Band of Brothers and The Pacific. During WWII, airmen risk their lives with the 100th Bomb Group, a brotherhood forged by courage, loss, and triumph.

FX

Feud: Capote vs The Swans (8 episodes) I can’t imagine watching all 8 episodes of this series which does feature an amazing cast of actresses playing Capote’s coterie of society women. Update: I have stayed with the show which is almost unbearably melancholy as it follows Capote’s self-destructive path.

Shogun (10 episodes) When a mysterious European ship is found marooned in a nearby fishing village, Lord Yoshii Toranaga discovers secrets that could tip the scales and devastate his enemies. Stars Cosmo Jarvis. So far, so good as I have watched the first two episodes. Absorbing!

HBO/Max

Tokyo Vice (Returns for a second season of 10 episodes) Hired as Meicho Shibun’s first American crime reporter, Jake Edelstein is quickly tasked with covering two cases the initially appear unrelated, but soon stakes his career – and life – on connecting the dots. Ansel Elgort’s Japanese seems pretty good to me!

Curb Your Enthusiasm (10 episodes) Larry David stars as an over-the-top version of himself in this comedy series that shows how seemingly trivial details of day-to-day life can precipitate a catastrophic chain of events. Cringe comedy!

**The Regime (premieres today, 6 episodes) Kate Winslet stars in this limited series as the Chancellor of an unnamed Central European nation that is unraveling being the palace walls.

Netflix

The Tourist Season 2 (6 episodes) Eliot travels to Ireland in search of answers about his past. Stars Jai Dornan, Danielle Macdonald. Love this series!! Watch Season 1 first!

NBC

Law & Order (892 episodes since 1990) Still solving crimes and bringing criminals to justice!!! Now starring Hugh Dancy and Reid Scott! I never watched this show in its heyday, but now I can’t resist its torn from the headlines plots. Spoiler alert: Sam Waterston is leaving the show after 30 years in the same role and is being replaced by Tony Goldwyn!!!

Jeopardy (Nightly, 8892 episodes) I just realized that in Naples, this syndicated show appears on NBC! Ken Jennings is back hosting! Mayim Bialik has officially been released from her role as special events host and Ken will be the sole host. It’s been a championship format for the last several weeks, so no absolute dud contestants. Love it!! Breaking News: Canadian psychiatrist, Juveria Zaheer from Whitby, Ontario, is the winner of Group One in the Jeopardy Champions Wildcard Season 39 competition!

CBS

FBI,  FBI International, FBI Most Wanted (Ok, this is all rather formulaic stuff, but I get a hoot out of the incredibly flat acting of all three series, which I think of as Original, Crispy and Extra Crispy). So amazing that the FBI can solve every case within a 1 hr time period. It is the formula that viewers respond so warmly to on the Mother Ship series Law & Order and all its spin-offs.

Elsbeth (10 episodes) Elsbeth Tascioni,, an unconventional attorney, gives her singular point of view to make observations to catch criminals alongside the NYPD. If you loved Carrie Preston on The Good Wife, The Good Fight, etc., you will love her ditzy persona in this. I love her!!!

Streaming

Colin From Accounts (from Australia, 16 episodes) Ashley and Gordon, two single-ish , complex humans who are brought together by a car accident and an injured dog. Flawed, funny people choosing each and being brave enough to show their true selves and navigate life together. The dog is awfully cute! Stars Patrick Brammall and Harriet Dyer. Love this delightful show!!!

Closing Words

Our week of Breast Cancer giving is happening this week featuring a golf tournament and several other events. We are seeing longtime friends from Toronto tonight for dinner on Isle of Capri. Bocce continues as does regular golf, fitness, book club, etc.

Here’s a trailer for The Regime (debuts tonight on HBO/Max):

Still touring…birthday celebrations… Awards shows continue…

Our second week visiting with our son has been full of theatre, hikes, beach walks and eating out. We dined at Truluck’s for my birthday (where I’d never been before), everglades walks on the Big Bend boardwalk and in The Rookery, Tigertail beachwalk on Marco followed by lunch at the Snook Inn (still memorably ramshackle even after its post-hurricane makeover). Tonight we’re dining at Keywadin on Fifth and tomorrow we’re touring Miami. In the meantime, here are some viewing suggestions for you:

Live on Stage

Into the Breeches (Gulfshore Playhouse) A lively tale about an all-female group of actresses putting on a Shakespeare play during WWII when all the men are at war. Brush up your Shakespeare (especially the Henry plays) if you plan to see this one. The schedule is out for next year’s lineup of shows, so please come out and support this local professional theatre group.

ABC

Abbot Elementary (50 episodes) A workplace comedy centred around a group of dedicated teachers – and an oblivious principal – in a Philadelphia public school where despite the odds stacked against them, they are determined to help their students succeed in life. Fabulous cast includes Quintqa Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, Lisa Ann Walter, Sheryl Lee Ralph. So delightful!!!

Apple

Constellation (8 episodes) Jo returns to earth after a disaster in space and discovers that there are missing pieces in her life, so she sets out to expose the truth about the hidden secrets of space travel and recover what she has lost. Stars Noomi Rapace Jonathan Banks, James D’Arcy. Haunting and mesmerizing.

Criminal Record (8 episodes) Follows two brilliant detectives in a tug of war over a historic murder conviction, dealing with issues of race, institutional failure, and the quest to find common ground in a polarized Britain. Stars Peter Capaldi and Cush Jumbo.

Masters of the Air (9 episodes) During WWII, five miles above the ground and behind enemy lines ten men inside a bomber known as a “Flying Fortress” battle unrelenting flocks of German fighters. Stars Austin Butler and Callum Turner (and newcomer Barry Keoghan, from Saltburn) lead a terrific ensemble cast. I was really transported by this period piece which features incredible scenes of the B-17’s in action. An Apple Original Series from Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks, and Gary Goetzman – the producers of Band of Brothers and The Pacific. During WWII, airmen risk their lives with the 100th Bomb Group, a brotherhood forged by courage, loss, and triumph.

The New Look  (10 episodes) Explores the rise of fashion designer Christian Dior as he dethrones Coco Chanel and helps return spirit and life to the world with his iconic imprint of beauty and influence. Stars Ben Mendelsohn and Juliette Binoche and Maisie Williams. I love this series!!!

CBS

FBI, FBI International, FBI Most Wanted (Ok, this is all rather formulaic stuff, but I get a hoot out of the incredibly flat acting of all three series, which I think of as Original, Crispy and Extra Crispy). So amazing that the FBI can solve every case within a 1 hr time period. It is the formula that viewers respond so warmly to on the Mother Ship series Law & Order and all its spin-offs.

FX

Feud: Capote vs The Swans (8 episodes) I can’t imagine watching all 8 episodes of this series which does feature an amazing cast of actresses playing Capote’s coterie of society women. Update: I have stayed with the show which is almost unbearably melancholy as it follows Capote’s self-destructive path.

HBO/Max

Tokyo Vice (Returns for a second season of 10 episodes) Hired as Meicho Shibun’s first American crime reporter, Jake Edelstein is quickly tasked with covering two cases the initially appear unrelated, but soon stakes his career – and life – on connecting the dots. Ansel Elgort’s Japanese seems pretty good to me!

Curb Your Enthusiasm (10 episodes) Larry David stars as an over-the-top version of himself in this comedy series that shows how seemingly trivial details of day-to-day life can precipitate a catastrophic chain of events. Cringe comedy!

NBC

Law & Order (892 episodes since 1990) Still solving crimes and bringing criminals to justice!!! Now starring Hugh Dancy and Reid Scott! I never watched this show in its heyday, but now I can’t resist its torn from the headlines plots. Spoiler alert: Sam Waterston is leaving the show after 30 years in the same role and is being replaced by Tony Goldwyn!!!

Jeopardy (Nightly, 8892 episodes) I just realized that in Naples, this syndicated show appears on NBC! Ken Jennings is back hosting! Mayim Bialik has officially been released from her role as special events host and Ken will be the sole host. It’s been a championship format for the last several weeks, so no absolute dud contestants. Love it!! Breaking News: Canadian psychiatrist, Juveria Zaheer from Whitby, Ontario, is the winner of Group One in the Jeopardy Champions Wildcard Season 39 competition!

Prime

Expats  (6 episodes) A look at the personal and professional lives of a tight-knit group of expatriates living in Hong Kong. Nicole Kidman stars. This may not be for everyone as it is kind of slow and painful to watch. Update: I have now watched the whole series and found it took a great turn in Episode 5 which is almost a stand alone movie that concentrates on the lives of the servants in the show.

Streaming

Past Lives (1 h 45m) Nora and Hae Sung, two deeply connected childhood friends, are wrested apart after Nora’s family emigrates from South Korea. Twenty years later, they are reunited for one fateful week as they confront notions of love and destiny. A touching and understated film about love, unrealized dreams, and life choices. Nominated for Best Picture! My movie club watched it this past week and loved its subtle dreaminess.

Pinball: The Man Who Saved the Game (1 h 35 m) The story of Roger Sharpe, the young midwesterner who overturned New York City’s 35 year-old ban on pinball machines. A most peculiar slow paced film. Quirky to the max!

Closing Words

We are off to a Car Show and brunch at our golf club this morning. This afternoon we will be re-watching Dune Part 1 in anticipation of the film’s Part 2 opening this Thursday (which we will be attending followed by dinner at the Cheesecake Factory). Here is a trailer for the film which has had spectacular reviews:

Our son is visiting…we’re tourists again…

Yesterday we visited the Third Street market, and had lunch at an almost waterfront breakfast place, First Watch at Lowdermilk Park. Prior to that we visited Costco and had lunch at Steamers on Pineridge which I can now report has the best lobster roll (with huge pieces of lobster) in Naples. We also had a lunch stop the other day after walking the Naples Beach at Flo’s Clam Shack (originally a RI mainstay) where my son ordered the fish platter which the three of us had a ball demolishing. Meanwhile, here are some viewing suggestions for you:

ABC

Abbott Elementary (50 episodes) A workplace comedy centred around a group of dedicated teachers – and an oblivious principal – in a Philadelphia public school where despite the odds stacked against them, they are determined to help their students succeed in life. Fabulous cast includes Quintqa Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, Lisa Ann Walter, Sheryl Lee Ralph. So delightful!!!

FBI (Ok, this is all rather formulaic stuff, but I get a hoot out of the incredibly flat acting of all three series, which I think of as Original, Crispy and Extra Crispy). So amazing that the FBI can solve every case within a 1 hr time period. It is the formula that viewers respond so warmly to on the Mother Ship series Law & Order and all its spin-offs.

FBI International

FBI Most Wanted

Apple

The New Look (10 episodes) Explores the rise of fashion designer Christian Dior as he dethrones Coco Chanel and helps return spirit and life to the world with his iconic imprint of beauty and influence. Stars Ben Mendelsohn and Juliette Binoche and Maisie Williams. I love this series!!!

Criminal Record (8 episodes) Follows two brilliant detectives in a tug of war over a historic murder conviction, dealing with issues of race, institutional failure, and the quest to find common ground in a polarized Britain. Stars Peter Capaldi and Cush Jumbo.

Masters of the Air (9 episodes) During WWII, five miles above the ground and behind enemy lines ten men inside a bomber known as a “Flying Fortress” battle unrelenting flocks of German fighters. Stars Austin Butler and Callum Turner (and newcomer Barry Keoghan, from Saltburn) lead a terrific ensemble cast. I was really transported by this period piece which features incredible scenes of the B-17’s in action. An Apple Original Series from Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks, and Gary Goetzman – the producers of Band of Brothers and The Pacific. During WWII, airmen risk their lives with the 100th Bomb Group, a brotherhood forged by courage, loss, and triumph.

FX

Feud: Capote vs The Swans (8 episodes) I can’t imagine watching all 8 episodes of this series which does feature an amazing cast of actresses playing Capote’s coterie of society women. I think the 2 episodes I’ve seen may be enough for me.

HBO/MAX

True Detective: Night Country (6 episodes) In 2012, former detective partners Rust Cohle and Martin Hart recap one of their very first cases together involving a serial killer, back in 1995. Stars Jodie Foster.

Curb Your Enthusiasm (10 episodes) Larry David stars as an over-the-top version of himself in this comedy series that shows how seemingly trivial details of day-to-day life can precipitate a catastrophic chain of events. Cringe comedy!

Tokyo Vice (Returns for a second season of 10 episodes) Hired as Meicho Shibun’s first American crime reporter, Jake Edelstein is quickly tasked with covering two cases the initially appear unrelated, but soon stakes his career – and life – on connecting the dots. Ansel Elgort’s Japanese seems pretty good to me!

Vanity Fair Confidential ( Reality Show, Documentary, 10 episodes) Incredibly sleazy series with misspelled subtitles. I watched two episodes, one on the Lou Pearlman boy band scandals and the next on the murder committed by Phil Spector. Too cheesy and sleazy for me.

NBC

Law and Order (892 episodes since 1990) Still solving crimes and bringing criminals to justice!!! Now starring Hugh Dancy and Reid Scott! I never watched this show in its heyday, but now I can’t resist its torn from the headlines plots.

Jeopardy (Nightly, 8892 episodes) I just realized that in Naples, this syndicated show appears on NBC! Ken Jennings is back hosting! Mayim Bialik has officially been released from her role as special events host and Ken will be the sole host. It’s been a championship format for the last several weeks, so no absolute dud contestants. Love it!! Breaking News: Canadian psychiatrist, Juveria Zaheer from Whitby, Ontario, is the winner of Group One in the Jeopardy Champions Wildcard Season 39 competition!

Netflix

Falling for Figaro (1 h 44 m) A brilliant young fund manager leaves her unfulfilling job and long-term boyfriend to chase her lifelong dream of becoming an opera singer in the Scottish Highlands.Stars Danielle Macdonald and Hugh Skinner and Joanna Lumley. Delightful if you like opera!

The Catcher Was a Spy (1 h 34 m) Former Major League Baseball player Moe Berg goes undercover in World War II Europe for the Office of Strategic Services. Incredibly flat performances from everyone, including Paul Rudd, Tom Wilkinson, Connie Nielsen, Mark Strong, Shea Wigham, Sienna Miller, Ben Miles, Jeff Daniels, Guy Pearce. Paul Giamatti also appears in this one but acts like he is in another movie entirely. There was something seriously wrong about the way this movie was put together. Paul Rudd,whom I love, is terribly miscast in this.

PBS

Miss Scarlett and the Duke ( 6 episodes) Delightful period mystery set in 19th-century London.

All Creatures Great and Small (7 episodes) The numerous adventures of a countryside veterinarian practice in 1930’s to 1940’s Yorkshire, England. Delightful and heart-warming

Prime

Expats (6 episodes) A look at the personal and professional lives of a tight-knit group of expatriates living in Hong Kong. Nicole Kidman stars. This may not be for everyone as it is kind of slow and painful to watch.

CBS

Tracker (13 episodes) Colter Shaw travels the country in his old-school RV, helping police and private citizens solve cries and locate missing persons — until his latest case charges everything. Best acting job by a set of well toned abdominals on TV today. Totally generic and formulaic, I don’t think I will be continuing with this one. Stars the shapely Justin Hartley and Robin Weigert.

Streaming

The Boys in the Boat (2 h 3 m) A 1930’s set story centred on the University of Washington’s rowing team from their Depression-era beginnings to winning gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Stars Joel Edgerton and Callum Turner. Directed by George Clooney. Kind of lacklustre but very touching.

Sexy Beast (8 episodes) With their reputation growing across London, thieves Gal and Don are recruited by renowned criminal boss Teddy Bass for a high-stakes job. But as they continue to rise in the criminal world, they find their lives changed forever. Stars Stephen Moyer (True Blood).

Kin (16 episodes) Kin tells the story of a fictional Dublin family embroiled in gangland war and speaks to the enduring unbreakable bonds of blood and family. Stars Charlie Cox, Clare Dunne, Aidan Gillen, Emmett J Scanlan. Furiously violent.

When Evil Lurks (1 h 39 m) At my son’s request, we watched (or rather tried to watch) this horror film from Argentina. He tells me I lasted 20 minutes into the film before I ran screaming from the room and the guys switched over to the NBA All Star game. Way too scary for me as two brothers find a demon-infected man just about to “give birth” to evil itself. They decide to get rid of the body, only to end up unintentionally spreading chaos. Not for the faint of heart.

Closing Words

Here’s a taste of Navalny’s documentary on Putin’s palace (one of the many anti-Putin messages he stood for):