What's Lorraine watching?

Alone again…sigh…

Posted on March 3, 2024 by brunswil

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…

Posted on February 25, 2024 by brunswil

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

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.

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

HBO/Max

NBC

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…

Posted on February 18, 2024 by brunswil

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

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.

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.

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

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):

Superbowl tonight, my wings are ready to go…

Posted on February 11, 2024 by brunswil

Tonight we will join many of our neighbours to watch the big game. I, of course, will be completely looking forward to the commercials and halftime show. I pride myself on never having watched a single game in its entirety since I first started watching football games in high school. Even in high school, my closest friend was the head cheerleader, so I went along just to cheer her on. For me, the Super Bowl means that the Oscars are only about a month away! Those are the contests I really enjoy. Meanwhile, here are some recommendations for you:

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.

CNN

The Many Lives of Martha Stewart (4 episodes) Exploring the explosive rise to success and staggering fall from grace and the momentous comeback to the limelight establishing Martha Stewart as one of the country’s most fabled figures. Love her or hate her you have to admire her relentless energy and drive.

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

Curb Your Enthusiasm (10 episodes, 12th season) 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 (Season 2, 10 episodes) The true story continues: A Western journalist working for a publication in Tokyo takes on one of the city’s most powerful crime bosses. Ansel Elgort and Ken Watanabe star.

Netflix

The After (Short film, 18 m) In this intense short film a grieving rideshare driver picks up a passenger who helps him confront the past. Stars David Oyelowo who is unbelievably touching in this.

The Greatest Night in Pop (Documentary, 1 h 36 m) On Jan. 28, 1985 dozens of the era’s most popular musicians gathered in LA to record a charity single for African famine relief. Setting egos aside, they collaborated on a song that would make history, We Are the World.

Viking Wolf (From Norway,1 h 37 m) Sometimes you just need a werewolf film! Thale (17) has just moved with her parents to a small town after her mother has a new job in the local police. After a student is killed brutally at a party Thale attends, she becomes a key witness. Was the killer an animal? A wolf?

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

Mr. & Mrs. Smith (8 episodes) Two strangers land jobs with a spy agency that offers them a life of espionage, wealth, and travel. The catch: new identities in an arranged marriage. I quite enjoy this until the last episode which was over the top insane.

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

Streaming

The Color Purple (2 h 21 m) A woman faces many hardships in her life, but ultimately finds extraordinary strength and hope in the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood. Fantasia Barrino stars. Over two hours of uninterrupted misery, with music!

Wonka (1 h 56 m) With dreams of opening a shop in a city renowned for its chocolate a young and poor Willy Wonka discovers that the industry is run by a cartel of greedy chocolatiers. Loved Hugh Grant for his turn as a perfectly respectably sized Oompa Loompa.

American Fiction (1 h 57 m) A novelist who’s fed up with the establishment profiting from Black entertainment uses a pen name to write a book that propels him into the heart of the hypocrisy and madness he claims to disdain. Jeffrey Wright leads a wonderful cast in this satire of academia and the world of literature.

Closing Words

If you can’t wait until tonight, here’s a little preview of the best commercials:

Whew, just survived a busy week…

Posted on February 4, 2024 by brunswil

I had the great pleasure of hosting Ruth Markel, a friend and neighbour from Thornbury this past week as she gave a talk to our Ladies Group on her book called The Unveiling. It tells the story of her son Dan’s murder ih Tallahassee, Florida in 2014 and the aftermath of that murder. At this point 4 people have been convicted and sentenced in the murder-for-hire plot and one more is in jail awaiting trial. Ruth is a model of resilience and courage and has been successful in getting a statute passed in the Florida legislature to protect grandparents’ access rights. The strongest woman I know. Meanwhile, here are some viewing suggestions for you:

Special Events

Beatlemania presented by the Beatlemaniax last night in our clubhouse parking lot. The crowd was delighted to sing along and dance enthusiastically! Possibly not the very best Beatles tribute band, (we know this because a friend of ours was in a band called Liverpool that was the very best Beatles tribute band ever), however, the crowd really did enjoy them.

The Unveiling -speakers’ series with Ruth Markel. A very moving book about a true crime that happened in Tallahassee in 2014. There have been several TV shows that have covered this story (Dateline, 20/20, etc) and a number of podcasts and YouTube series . Stay tuned for future adaptations by major media outlets.

AMC

Monsieur Spade (6 episodes) I can’t imagine watching 6 episodes of this very moribund series, even though it stars Clive Owen doing his best to impersonate Humphrey Bogart. Beautiful scenes of the French countryside!

Apple

CBS

**The Grammy Awards airs tonight on CBS at 8 pm. For those of you following today’s music scene!

CNN

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

**Curb Your Enthusiasm (10 episodes, 12th season premieres tonight) 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!

George Stevens: A Filmmaker’s Journey (90 m) George Stevens, a filmmaker known as a meticulous craftsman with a brilliant eye for composition and a sensitive touch with actors, is one of the great American filmmakers, ranking with John Ford, William Wyler and Howard Hawks as a creator of classic Hollywood cinema. This is a great documentary that tells the story of Hollywood filmmaking from the 30’s to the 60’s.

NBC

Netflix

Silent Night (1 h 32 m) Nell, Simon and their 3sons ar ready to welcome friends and family for what promises to be a perfect Christmas gathering. Perfect except for one thing: everyone is going to die. Stars Roman Griffin Davis (from Jo Jo Rabit and his two little brothers in a film directed by their mother. this film also stars Keira Knightley and Matthew Goode, but is a real misfire. Definitely not going down as a Christmas classic.

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

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) as the evil Teddy Bass. Probably too brutally dark for most.

Streaming

Ferrari (2 h 10 m but seemed longer) Set in the summer of 1957, with Enzo Ferrari’s auto empire in crisis the ex-racer turned entrepreneur pushes himself and his drivers to the edge as they launch into the Mille Miglia, a treacherous 1000-mile race across Italy. Adam Driver stars and is a little wooden as Ferrari. Penelope Cruz gives a one-note performance as his exwife who is distraught after their son dies of muscular dystrophy. For a movie about racing, it is a little slow and painful to watch.

Closing Words

I am looking forward to participating in this week’s Pirates of the Caribbean golf tournament and I am going to participate in our local pub trivia contest!! In my tribute to all things trivia, I’m attaching some highlights of Juveria’s winning performance:

New content now coming to Network TV as well as Streaming…

Posted on January 28, 2024 by brunswil

This weekend, I actually got to enjoy several new shows that have recently debuted on both Network and Streaming. We took in a new restaurant in town, Le Bicyclette in N. Naples and we are off to the Gulfshore Playhouse today to see their latest offering, The Refugees, followed by dinner on 5th Avenue. Meanwhile here are some viewing suggestions for you:

Live on Stage

The Refugees (World Premiere from playwright Brent Askari at the Gulfshore Playhouse) This intriguing fish out of water comedy imagines a world where America is divided by Civil War and its citizens flee to other countries around the world for safety. In this case a family lands in the Middle East where they face all the usual problems of adjusting to a new culture and language where they are most unwelcome. Needless to say, both drama and comedy ensue.

Movie Club

The Holdovers (2 h 13 m) A cranky history teacher at a remote prep school is forced to remain on campus over the holidays with a troubled student who has no place to go, and a grieving cook. I showed this wonderful film to an appreciative audience in my home. Superb performances from Paul Giamatti, Da’Vine Joy Randolph and newcomer, Dominic Sessa. This movie is a classic and might be something you could watch every Christmas because of its melancholy musical score of Christmas carols and its iconic setting in a New England boys boarding school in winter. Touching and inspiring.

Apple TV

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.

HBO/Max

NBC

Saturday Night Live (961 episodes since 1975) This week was Dakota Johnson’s turn as MC and Justin Timberlake as the musical guest. I can’t look away no matter how unfunny the sketches are.

Netflix

Griselda (6 episodes) Fleeing from Medellin to Miami, Griselda Blanco creates one of the most ruthless cartels in history. Sofia Vergara breaks away from her Modern Family persona. I did enjoy this very Narcos-like series. I can’t believe I binged the whole darned series!

PBS

Miss Scarlet 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.

Peacock

In The Know (Claymation, 6 episodes)Lauren Caspian is the host of In the Knowk pubic radio’s their most polar interview program. He’s a well-meaning hypocritical nimrod. He’s also a stop motion puppet. From the gang that brought you Silicon Valley. Definitely not for everyone.

Ted (7 episodes) It’s 1993, and Ted the bear’s moment of fame has passed. He’s living back home with his best friend, John Bennett, and his family. While Ted may be a lousy influence on John he’s a loyal pal who will go out on a limb for friendship. Seth MacFarlane is both the director and stars as the voice of Ted. For lovers of bears starring in their own TV shows.

Prime

Expats (6 episodes) A look at the personal and professional lives of a tight-kinit group of expatriates living in Hog Kong Nicole Kidman stars. Dark and mysterious. I enjoyed it but it has mostly negative reviews that criticized its vacuousness.

Streaming

The Woman in the Wall (6 episodes) Lorna Brady wakes one morning to find a corpse in her house with no idea who the dead woman is. She doubts herself, because she has long suffered from extreme bouts of sleepwalking. Stars Ruth Wilson and Daryl McCormack. Dark and mysterious. I did binge the whole thing, but I confess I found it overly long and mysterious. Could have been done in fewer episodes.

Closing Words

Don’t forget to watch Feud: Capote vs The Swans debuting on FX this week. It tells the story of Truman Capote’s friendship with a group of wealthy and beautiful society women in his day:

Also, a friend of mine has a very talented parrot named Merlin. This video clip will give you a taste of how talented these birds are:

Polar vortex still having consequences in Florida…

Posted on January 21, 2024 by brunswil

Still a bit chilly here, but I know it’s nothing compared to the wintery blasts that are going on in the North. Looking forward to the usual golf, bocce, movie activities of the week ahead. Meanwhile, here are some viewing suggestions for you:

Movie Club

The Holdovers (2 h 13 m) I’m showing this wonderful coming of age story to my movie club this week. Paul Giamatti plays a cranky history teacher at a remote prep school who is forced to remain on campus over the holidays with a troubled student who has no place to go and a grieving cook. I loved this very sweet film and am anxious to hear what the group thinks of it.

ABC

Jeopardy (Nightly, 8892 episodes) 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!!

Apple

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.

FX

Fargo (Season 5, 10 episodes) We’re back in the midwest with spectacularly awful Minnesota accents. Juno Temple is over the top, Jennifer Jason Leigh is like an actor in a 30’s Hollywood film. Jon Hamm is the evil male lead who is even more dastardly than his recent turn in The Morning Show. This has been a terrifically suspenseful season with a great performance from Hamm as the villain and a surprisingly effective performance from Juno Temple as the central character. Just as entertaining as the first season. I stress that for those of you who haven’t caught this series, each season is totally independent and you can jump into any season without having to follow a central storyline.

HBO

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.

Bill Maher He’s back on Friday nights! Humdinger of a guest list this past week included Gavin Newsome, Ari Melber and Andrew Sullivan.

Netflix

The GyeongSeong Creature (from Korea,11 episodes) Facing financial ruin, Jang Tae-sang agrees to track down a missing person – but two figures tail him Meanwhile, sinister operations occur underground. Set during the Japanese occupation of Korea. I binged this one!!! Loved it!

Close to Home: Murder in the Coal Field (from Germany, 6 episodes) So dark and dingy. German noir. Lasted 2 episodes.

Queenpins (1 h 50 m) A pair of housewives create a $40 million coupon scam. Stars Kristen Bel. I gave up after about 30 minutes. I think you really have to be in the mood for a silly crime film.

Detective Forst (from Poland, 6 episodes) Tatra Mountains will become an arena of brutal murder. The investigation is carried out by a cynical but effective policeman, Wiktor First. Dark and dingy. Polish noir. Lasted one episode.

PBS

Miss Scarlet 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

Role Play (1 h 40 m) Emma has a wonderful husband and two kids in the suburbs of NJ. She also has a secret life as an assassin for hire, a secret that her husband Dave discovers when the couple decide to spice up their marriage with a little role play. Stars Kaley Cuoco and David Oyelowo. Worth seeing for Bill Nighy’s brief performance at the beginning of the film.

Reacher (Season 2, 8 episodes) Reacher investigates the murder of a member of 110th, a group of Special investigators assembled by Reacher, only to realize the whole unit may be at risk. I kind of like this big guy, but this season was a bit uninspired and could have taken half as many episodes to unwind.

Indian Police Force (7 episodes) Delhi police Office Kabir Mlik battles n insidious adversary Zarar, who has chosen the path of terrorism. So much background musical score in this one. A few dance numbers would have helped it seem a little more entertaining. Action packed yet predictable.

Dance Life (Documentary from Australia, 5 episodes) Dance life follows the top students of Australia’s premier dance academy in their relentless pursuit to become professional dancers. The stakes are high and not every will make it. There is much screaming of instruction from the coaches.

Reg (1 h 29 m) The true story of Reg Keys who lost his son in the Iraq War and then went on to contest Tony Blair’s seat at Sedgefield in the 2005 General Election. Tim Roth and Anna Maxwell Martin star. Very touching.

Streaming

Napoleon (2 h 38 m, but seemed a lot longer) An epic that entails the checkered rise and fall of French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte and his relentless journey to power through the prism of his addictive, volatile relationship with his wife, Josephine. So long, so many battles. Full confession: I hate Joaquin Phoenix who stars as Bonaparte. Vanessa Kirby stars as Josephine, but her performance is not enough to enliven this tragically dull film.

YouTube

Mrs. Palfrey at the Claremont (1 h 48 m) All but abandoned by her family in a London retirement hotel, an elderly woman strikes up a curious friendship with a young writer. Joan Plowright stars and Rupert Friend makes his debut in this 2005 film. Very sweet and touching.

Closing Words

I have become obsessed with a little Russian toddler from Saint Petersburg called Gavriil Scherbenko who has a natural affinity for the piano and who is learning to play under the tutelage of his very musical family. He is two years old! Here he is shown carefully composing his next piece of music:

Polar vortex has consequences in Florida…

Posted on January 14, 2024 by brunswil

We were all set for the men to watch Sunday Football with the Buffalo Bills in our den today, and Ridley Scott’s Napoleon with ladies in the living room when the football got rescheduled because of weather. So we will all be hunkering down to watch the movie instead. We got football style treats in honour of the game (chicken wings, hot dogs, etc.) and somehow, having all-American fare instead of chic French bistro food will seem a bit wrong. Who knew?!!! Meanwhile, here are some viewing suggestions for you:

ABC

Apple

Monarch: Legacy of Monsters (10 episodes) Set after the battle between Godzilla and the Titans, revealing that monsters are real, follows one family’s journey to uncover its buried secrets and a legacy linking them to Monarch. Features Kurt Russell and playing him as a young man, his son Wyatt Russell. There needed to be far more monsters in this show. Episode 10 which aired this week sadly did not feature a monster extravaganza, however, if you stick it out until the end, you will get a preview of next year’s monster.

Disney

Echo (part of the Marvel franchise, 5 episodes) Maya Lopez must face her past, reconnect with her Native American roots and embrace the meaning of family and community if she ever hopes to move forward. The cast features Canadian actors like Tantoo Cardinal and Graham Greene. I actually loved the segments that dealt with indigenous roots and their culture and mythology. Vincent D’Onofrio plays the scary villain. Zahn McClarnon plays Maya’s dad.

FX

HBO/Max

True Detective: Night Country (debuts tonight at 9; 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.

Going to Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project (Documentary, 1 h 42 m) a look at the life of poet, Nikki Giovanni and the revolutionary historical periods through which she lived, from the Cvil Rights Movement to Black Lives Matter. Great archival footage of the civil rights movement. I had been unaware of Giovanni’s status as a great American poet, so found her influence to be very inspiring.

Netflix

Boy Swallows Universe (from Australia, 7 episodes) In 1980’s Brisbane, a precocious boy and his selectively mute brother embark on a suburban odyssey of love, redemption and retribution after their family is torn apart by a drug lord. I loved this series which features Bryan Brown, Anthony LaPaglia and two amazing performances by the young actors playing the brothers. Simon Baker makes a wonderful appearance as the alcoholic father. Travis Kimmel play the stepfather who disappears early on in the story.

Why Are You Like This? (from Australia, 6 episodes) Best friends Penny and Mia set out to right all that’s wrong with the world, blissfully ignorant of how many people they torment along the way. Pokes fun at all that is woke, but it’s a little tough going because every character is a very broad stereotype.

PBS

Miss Scarlet 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

Closing Words

Here’s a trailer for tonight’s True Detective: Night Country:

It’s the Golden Globe Awards and we’re off to the races…

Posted on January 7, 2024 by brunswil

Tonight the Globes will air on CBS. It’s the start of a new era as NBC has traditionally hosted these somewhat sketchy awards. Plagued over the years by rumours of influence peddling and bribery, terribly unqualified jurors, and overall hokeyness, the Globes are trying to clean up their act in terms of diversity in their nominees and membership, and deciding not to hire Ricky Gervais to host (whose overall contempt for the entire proceedings was part of his shtick). For many, the Globes sometimes act as a precursor for the Oscars and have always honoured TV productions as well as film. Now those lines are so totally blurred by streaming that most features are now streamed in people’s homes instead of being viewed in theatres. When I asked a friend recently what she was watching, she informed me that she no longer watches TV and only streams movies. I rest my case. Hardly any difference to most viewers how they watch content.

Live on TV Tonight

The Golden Globe Awards (CBS tonight from 8-10 pm) Hosted by comedian Jo Koy (the first Asian to solo host the Awards). They can also be live streamed on YouTube TV, Hulu+Live TV, Fubo TV, DirecTV Stream or Paramount+ with the Showtime add-on. Enjoy the parade of celebrities who genuinely enjoy this show and treat it like a party.

ABC

Apple

Monarch: Legacy of Monsters (10 episodes) Set after the battle between Godzilla and the Titans, revealing that monsters are real, follows one family’s journey to uncover its buried secrets and a legacy linking them to Monarch. Features Kurt Russell and playing him as a young man, his son Wyatt Russell. There needed to be far more monsters in this show. Hopefully Episode 10 which airs this week will feature a monster extravaganza!

FX

Netflix

Berlin (From Spain, 8 episodes) Prequel to Money Heist, but much lighter and funnier! And we’re in Paris!!!

Fool Me Once (8 episodes) A British series that featured far too little of purported star Richard Armitage and was far too long at 8 episodes when 4 – 6 could surely have told the story more suspensefully instead of painfully dragging it out to the point where I really didn’t care about the whole mystery.

The Brothers Sun (8 episodes) Follows Charles Sun, a Taipei gangster who returns to LA to protect his mother and brother. Fabulously entertaining! Stars Michelle Yeoh and an almost all Asian cast.

PBS

Miss Scarlet and the Duke (Season 4 premieres today with 6 episodes) Delightful period mystery set in 19th-century London.

All Creatures Great and Small (Season 4 premieres today with 7 episodes) The numerous adventures of a countryside veterinarian practice in 1930’s to 1940’s Yorkshire, England. Delightful and heart-warming.

Prime

Foe (1 h 50 m) Hen and Junior farm a secluded piece of land that has been in Junior’s family for generations, but their quiet life is thrown into turmoil when an uninvited stranger shows up at their door with a startling proposal. Be very afraid of this turgid, not entertaining movie. A terrible waste of two good leading actors, Saoirse Ronan and Paul Mescal. Just awful. Unwatchable.

Streaming (Pay per view, On Demand)

Taylor Swift:The Eras Tour (2 h 49 m) We watched this on NYE and had a ball reading up on Swift as we watched. She is quite the consummate entertainer. No holds barred in the filming of this extravaganza.

Priscilla (1 h 53 m) When teenage Priscilla Beaulieu meets Elvis Presley, the man, who is already a meteoric rock&roll superstar, becomes someone entirely unexpected in private moments. Jacob Elordi is great as Elvis and Cailee Spaeny portrays vulnerability and innocence perfectly as Priscilla. A little slow. I was snoozing by the end.

The 46th Annual Kennedy Centre Honours (2 h) Entertainers receive recognition at the ceremony; this year’s honourees are Billy Crystal, Renee Fleming, Barry Gibb, Queen Latifah and Dionne Warwick. Delightful!!!

You Hurt My Feelings (1h 33 m) I rewatched this dark comedy with friends this weekend. A novelist’s longstanding marriage is suddenly upended when she overhears her husband giving his honest reaction to her latest book. Stars Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Tobias Menzies. A very bittersweet look at marriage and relationships. I loved this little movie.

Closing Words

For those of you who are trying to catch up with the best films of 2023 before the awards season really gets underway, here is a helpful video:

It’s New Year’s Eve…

Posted on December 31, 2023 by brunswil

We are celebrating with dear friends tonight and will be feasting on lobster and champagne. The weather outside is a tiny bit frightening as our unseasonably mild winter here in Ontario has come to an end, frigid temperatures have returned and there is a dusting of snow on the ground and rooftops. Have a wonderful New Year’s everyone and here are some viewing suggestions for you:

On the Big Screen

Poor Things (2 h 21 m) The incredible tale about the fantastical evolution of Bella Baxter; a young woman brought back to life by the brilliant and unorthodox scientist, Dr. Godwin Baxter. Stars Emma Stone, Mark Ruffalo (his English accent here is second in awfulness to Dick Van Dyke’s cockney chimneysweep), Willem Dafoe and Ramy Youssef. This film is definitely not for everyone and people will be confused by its very bizarre nature. Surreal and whimsical in a way that outdoes Wes Anderson. Go with friends and prepare to converse afterwards!

ABC

Apple

Slow Horses (Season 3, 6 episodes) Follows a team of British intelligence agents who serve as a dumping ground department of MI5 due to their career-ending mistakes. Love this very British series that stars Gary Oldman, Kristin Scott Thomas. So dark and dingy!

Crave/HBO/Max

Dark Side of the Ring: Season 1, Episode 4 The Von Erichs (40 episodes) I watched this episode from this Vice TV docuseries as a way of preparing for The Iron Claw (on screens now in the theatres, starring Zac Efron) which details the tragic lives of the Von Erich wrestling family. I recently watched the TV Series Heels which tells the story of a family wrestling franchise. For wrestling fans only! I have no explanation for my fascination with this very odd sport.

Bill Maher (21 seasons) He’s the first evening talk show host to return after the writers’ strike. Ron De Santis was his opening guest. Because of the writers’ strike, he is adding 3 shows in December to make up for lost time. Seasons Greetings from one of the most acerbic people on television.You be the judge!!

John Oliver (332 episodes) He’s back!!!

FX

Netflix

Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire (2 h 13 m) When a peaceful settlement on the edge of a distant moon finds itself threatened by the armies of a tyrannical ruling force, a mysterious stranger living among its villagers becomes their best hope for survival. I actually rather enjoyed this adventure epic. Kind of like Star Wars, Dune, etc. I liked the cast, especially bad guy Ed Skrein. Michiel Huisman finally gets cast as a leading man! Plus, it’s an ode to Seven Samurai/The Magnificent Seven! Zack Snyder, the director has been much criticized for being derivative and delivering knock-offs of far superior films, but I was carried off to a galaxy far, far away by this one and was thoroughly engaged.

Flipping Out (108 episodes from 2007 -2018) This series debuted recently on Netflix and although I enjoy a good home reno show this one actually seems to concentrate more on the interpersonal dramas involved in running a reno business. The star Jeff Lewis is one of the most obnoxious personalities I have ever seen as he is a total narcissist, OCD boss, and awful decorator. For a home reno show, his final designs hardly get any airplay. Shockingly, apparently later episodes of the show depict him being a father. How this could even happen is amazing to me! He would be the worst parent ever.

Thicker than Water (from France, 8 episodes) A journalist’s life devolves into chaos when she shields her brother from the law, inadvertently entangling her family in a drug lord’s merciless scheme. Very strange mix of family drama, law and order, and inside TV politics. I can’t believe I watched the whole thing!

WWII: From the Frontlines (6 episodes) Through vividly enhanced archival footage and voices from all sides of the conflict this docuseries brings WWII to life like never before. I really enjoyed watching this which I did at the encouragement of my son who found it very illuminating about a war he had never really understood previously.

Thank You, I’m Sorry (from Sweden, 1 h 30 m) Suddenly alone during the late stages of her pregnancy, Sara receives an unexpected lifeline when Linda, her estranged older sister, arrives. Kind of sweet and moving film about the meaning of family. I liked it very much!

Prime

Reacher (Season 2, 8 episodes( Reacher investigates the murder of a member of 110th, a group of Special investigators assembled by Reacher, only to realize the whole unit may be at risk. I kind of like this big guy!

Disney

Reasonable Doubt (10 episodes) Jai Stewart juggles work, fair, friends, and a complicated personal life as a brilliant fearless defence attorney in Los Angeles who bucks the justice system every chance she gets. Featuring an almost all-black cast, the show really concentrates on Black culture. Strangely, Michael Ealy who has always been known for his very blue eyes wears dark contact lenses in this one, and becomes a little more dangerous ex-con type who has always been drawn to the lead character. This is a Kerry Washington production and it’s kind of a glammed up tawdry mess. Not for me, I’m afraid.

Streaming (Pay per view, VOD, etc.)

Dream Scenario (1 h 42 m) A hapless family man finds his life turned upside down when millions of strangers suddenly start seeing him in their dreams. When his nighttime appearances take a nightmarish turn, Paul is forced to navigate his newfound stardom. Only Nicolas Cage could star in this outlandish film. Many performances by well known actors in small roles with Julianne Nicholson, Tim Meadows, Dylan Baker, Michael Cera, Nicholas Braun, etc. Surreal for sure!!! Not for everyone.

The Holdovers (2 h 13 m) A cranky history teacher at a remote New England prep school is forced to remain on campus over the holidays with a troubled student who has no place to go. This is a life affirming film, an indie going of age film. Paul Giamatti stars as the cranky teacher and gives a performance that is incredibly touching. Da’Vine Joy Randolph is the school’s cook who has just lost a son in Viet Nam and is trying to cope with her loss. Dominic Sessa is Angus the main Holdover boy. This is his first acting role and he actually attended the school where the film is set. His performance is so natural and unmannered that he steals your heart. I obviously loved this very warm-hearted film. It’s filmed like a 70’s film with shots, colours, ratio all harkening back to the ’70’s. I loved this film and am looking forward to rewatching it with my movie group in Florida where it will be our first film of the year.

Anatomy of a Fall (from France, winner of best film at Cannes festival, 2 h 31 m) A woman is suspected of her husband’s murder and their blind son faces a moral dilemma as the main witness. A courtroom drama with a Gallic twist. Suspenseful and quite ambiguous in its ending, it would make for a great discussion afterwards.

A Thousand and One (1 h 57 m) After unapologetic and fiercely loyal Inez kidnaps her son Terry from the foster care system, mother and son set out to reclaim their sense of home, identity, and stability, in a rapidly changing NYC. This film undoubtedly tells a story that is very common in the Black community, but it was hard to watch and a little slow. Great performances from all.

Farha (also available on Netflix, from Palestine, 1 h 32 m) A 14 year-old girl in 1948 Palestine watches from a locked pantry as catastrophe consumes her home. Tells the events of the Nakba from the point of view of one family when 750,000 Palestinians lost their homes. Couldn’t be more timely to watch than now as it shows, in a very simple way, the events that led directly to today’s conflict in Israel and Gaza.

Closing Words

Have a joyous New Year’s celebration tonight and I wish everyone a peaceful, happy and healthy 2024. I enclose the trailer for the most joyous film I watched this year, The Holdovers. Enjoy!

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	brunswil on Ooh, lots of new content…
	Catherine Ireland on Ooh, lots of new content…
	Catherine on Company coming today…
	Catherine Ireland on The season is wrapping up…
	brunswil on Polar vortex has consequences…