This show divided opinions on Saturday night. Was it a funny parody or an insult to a beloved show?
First of all, let's look at the host. I have no issues with Harry Hill as a comedian or presenter, his brand of surreal, family friendly comedy is what sets him apart and makes him who he is. However, Star in Their Eyes wasn't the best vehicle for him to bring that style to. If we wanted that sort of humour, ITV should've given him his own show to do what he wanted, he didn't need Stars in Their Eyes to do it. One thing that did annoy me though was the contestants were obviously giving him lines so he can do his jokes, a sign of a great presenter/comedian is thinking on the spot, not planning what you (or other people) will say.
Next, the contestants. I don't know whether or not it was Harry Hill's idea to make the contestants look uncomfortable on camera, but it didn't work either way, it looked unprofessional and slightly cheesy. However, when they started to sing as their respective artist, most of them were very good, especially Eminem and Christina Aguilera. Some people may have expected it to be "X-Factor-ified" by offering contracts, album deals and a public vote, but that's not what Stars in Their Eyes is about, it's about being your favourite artist for one night and sharing in their joy. I don't care if any of them do get a record deal out it, I don't even think the contestants themselves care that much, at least Harry Hill got that aspect of the show right.
Bottom line, I didn't like the show. Not because Matthew Kelly didn't host it or that it wasn't completely true to the format. I didn't like it because I expected Harry Hill to be himself, crack a few jokes and have a couple of surreal moments, but realise it's a singing show and have people actually sing a full song, not 2 minutes of singing before 5 minutes of material. Everything that made Stars in Their Eyes great was in there, but it was very brief, I ended up fast-forwarding through Harry's material and going straight to the singing, which was definitely the best part. If they make a second series, which could happen, have contestants sing a full song and have Harry Hill ask normal questions, have some funny moments and not manufacture ways of cramming pointless material into a show that already has a set format. Or better yet, have Harry Hill host Catchphrase and get Stephen Mulhern host Stars in Their Eyes. That's two shows I'd definitely watch!
Monday, 12 January 2015
Sunday, 21 September 2014
WWE: Night of Champions Predictions
Seeing as I did SummerSlam last month and got nearly all of them wrong, I figured to try again with Night of Champions. Although there are a few interesting matches here, it doesn't compare with SummerSlam on the "epic" scale, but let's see what we've got in store.
1. Dolph Ziggler vs. The Miz for the Intercontinental Championship
This has been a bit of a boring feud lately, simply cos everyone loves Ziggler, everyone hates Miz and that's it. They've added the stunt double thing, basically to show Sandow and R-Truth's careers still have meaning, but nothing too exciting. Hopefully Ziggler wins and he can move on to fighting someone new.
Result - Ziggler wins
2. Sheamus vs. Cesaro for the United States Championship
Again, a bit of a go nowhere feud between these two. Sheamus hasn't had a title match since Payback and hasn't done that much with it between then. It could very well be a repeat of Payback and Sheamus will win.
Result - Sheamus wins
3. Mark Henry vs. Rusev
Big E couldn't do it, despite all our hopes Jack Swagger couldn't do it, so will former Olympian Mark Henry do it? Usually I would say yes and then he loses to Rusev, but the fact that this feud main evented Raw last week means there could be something epic in this. Rusev has not lost a match in his WWE career yet, I would've thought "Real American" Jack Swagger would do it, but "Former Olympian who lost to a Russian" Mark Henry could have this as his redemption. I hope so, as then Mark Henry and Big Show can become the long overdue tag team we've waited for, but what will Rusev and Lana do after defeat?
Result - Mark Henry wins
4. The Usos vs. Goldust & Stardust for the Tag Team Championship
This has been an interesting feud between these two, both of which are brilliant tag teams. I don't mind that Goldust & Stardust are heels now, they're still unique, quirky and at times creepy duo, which makes them stand out and The Usos are just fun and great entertainers. Either team would be worthy winners, but I think it's due for a title change.
Result - Goldust & Stardust wins
5. Chris Jericho vs. Randy Orton
This has come out of nowhere and for no reason than getting these two legends to fight on a PPV. That being said, it should be a great match as both have earnt the name "Legend". Plus I don't have a clear vision on who will win. Randy Orton hasn't had much luck in a while and Chris Jericho has had losses against the Wyatts, so both are due a win. If I had to choose, I'd give the edge to Orton, simply because he needs some Authority points.
Result - Randy Orton wins
6. Paige vs. AJ Lee vs. Nikki Bella for the Divas Championship
As I said on the SummerSlam predictions, I am a big fan of both AJ Lee and Paige, but I am not a fan of the Bellas, either of them. Especially after weeks of terrible promos proving neither of them are good actors and the fact that the Authority has added Nikki Bella into the match for no reason. Hopefully AJ & Paige will salvage the match and Brie will get Nikki out of the picture, but I think Nikki will win and AJ & Paige will join forces to against the Authority.
Result - Nikki Bella wins
7. Brock Lesnar vs. John Cena for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship
At PPVs it's Brock vs Cena, at Raw, it's Heyman vs Cena. Not complaining about Paul Heyman, he's an excellent promoter and manager (sorry, advocate). But the fact that Brock Lesnar is a part-time wrestler and adds pretty much nothing to Raw, you wait for the PPVs as that's where he shines. However, with Brock being an occassional wrestler, I think this match will be Cena's redemption and put him on-par with Ric Flair's record of 16 times as world champion, then Lesnar will disappear and return when he's needed. So maybe, this will be a fairer, more dramatic fight than just Lesnar dominating like he did in his last 2 matches.
Result - John Cena wins
So here's the lowdown:
US title - Sheamus
Intercontential title - Dolph Ziggler
Tag Team title - Goldust & Stardust
Divas title - Nikki Bella
WWE World Heavyweight title - John Cena
Mark Henry defeats Rusev
Randy Orton defeats Chris Jericho
1. Dolph Ziggler vs. The Miz for the Intercontinental Championship
This has been a bit of a boring feud lately, simply cos everyone loves Ziggler, everyone hates Miz and that's it. They've added the stunt double thing, basically to show Sandow and R-Truth's careers still have meaning, but nothing too exciting. Hopefully Ziggler wins and he can move on to fighting someone new.
Result - Ziggler wins
2. Sheamus vs. Cesaro for the United States Championship
Again, a bit of a go nowhere feud between these two. Sheamus hasn't had a title match since Payback and hasn't done that much with it between then. It could very well be a repeat of Payback and Sheamus will win.
Result - Sheamus wins
3. Mark Henry vs. Rusev
Big E couldn't do it, despite all our hopes Jack Swagger couldn't do it, so will former Olympian Mark Henry do it? Usually I would say yes and then he loses to Rusev, but the fact that this feud main evented Raw last week means there could be something epic in this. Rusev has not lost a match in his WWE career yet, I would've thought "Real American" Jack Swagger would do it, but "Former Olympian who lost to a Russian" Mark Henry could have this as his redemption. I hope so, as then Mark Henry and Big Show can become the long overdue tag team we've waited for, but what will Rusev and Lana do after defeat?
Result - Mark Henry wins
4. The Usos vs. Goldust & Stardust for the Tag Team Championship
This has been an interesting feud between these two, both of which are brilliant tag teams. I don't mind that Goldust & Stardust are heels now, they're still unique, quirky and at times creepy duo, which makes them stand out and The Usos are just fun and great entertainers. Either team would be worthy winners, but I think it's due for a title change.
Result - Goldust & Stardust wins
5. Chris Jericho vs. Randy Orton
This has come out of nowhere and for no reason than getting these two legends to fight on a PPV. That being said, it should be a great match as both have earnt the name "Legend". Plus I don't have a clear vision on who will win. Randy Orton hasn't had much luck in a while and Chris Jericho has had losses against the Wyatts, so both are due a win. If I had to choose, I'd give the edge to Orton, simply because he needs some Authority points.
Result - Randy Orton wins
6. Paige vs. AJ Lee vs. Nikki Bella for the Divas Championship
As I said on the SummerSlam predictions, I am a big fan of both AJ Lee and Paige, but I am not a fan of the Bellas, either of them. Especially after weeks of terrible promos proving neither of them are good actors and the fact that the Authority has added Nikki Bella into the match for no reason. Hopefully AJ & Paige will salvage the match and Brie will get Nikki out of the picture, but I think Nikki will win and AJ & Paige will join forces to against the Authority.
Result - Nikki Bella wins
7. Brock Lesnar vs. John Cena for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship
At PPVs it's Brock vs Cena, at Raw, it's Heyman vs Cena. Not complaining about Paul Heyman, he's an excellent promoter and manager (sorry, advocate). But the fact that Brock Lesnar is a part-time wrestler and adds pretty much nothing to Raw, you wait for the PPVs as that's where he shines. However, with Brock being an occassional wrestler, I think this match will be Cena's redemption and put him on-par with Ric Flair's record of 16 times as world champion, then Lesnar will disappear and return when he's needed. So maybe, this will be a fairer, more dramatic fight than just Lesnar dominating like he did in his last 2 matches.
Result - John Cena wins
So here's the lowdown:
US title - Sheamus
Intercontential title - Dolph Ziggler
Tag Team title - Goldust & Stardust
Divas title - Nikki Bella
WWE World Heavyweight title - John Cena
Mark Henry defeats Rusev
Randy Orton defeats Chris Jericho
Monday, 1 September 2014
Film: Top 10 Marvel Cinematic Universe Films
With Guardians of the Galaxy now film number 10 in the multi-million dollar franchise, I figure I would rank the 10 films in order of how good they are. Let's do this!
10. The Incredible Hulk
Although it is an enjoyable film, compared to the rest of the movies, it doesn't match the success of the others.
9. Captain America: The First Avenger
Again, enjoyable to watch, but it was a little lackluster at times and felt more like an introduction piece for The Avengers rather than a stand-alone film.
8. Iron Man 2
The worse of the trilogy, but I still like this film, despite what the critics say. Tony Stark being Tony Stark, Scarlett Johansson as a kick-ass spy, Mickey Rourke as the baddie, lots of great stuff in this film!
7. Thor: The Dark World
This film suffered from a forgetable villain, very little use of Loki and scientific mumbo-jumbo. However, the main cast were brilliant and hold the film very well, plus it's set in London!
6. Iron Man 3
The de facto sequel to The Avengers definitely had epic qualities, especially in The Mandarin and Killian. However, Tony Stark wasn't the wise-cracking smart-alec we loved, no AC/DC and it didn't need to be Christmas based, but that's just nitpicking. Plus, I liked The Mandarin twist, even if the critics didn't!
5. Thor
I love this film, Chris Hemsworth was funny, Natalie Portman was adorably intelligent and Tom Hiddleston was just plain awesome. The "fish-out-of-water" scenario worked well and the subtle Avengers hints also give some sub-text. Plus, it works as a stand-alone film.
4. Iron Man
The film that started it all. The first 30 minutes of the film were brilliant, the rest of the film continues that trend. The chemistry of Robert Downey Jr. and Gwyneth Paltrow was sublime, Jeff Bridges played a brilliant villain and it had a good dollop of Marvel humour thrown in too.
3. Captain America: The Winter Soldier
The way better sequel that made Captain America cool! It had a spy feel to it, Chris Evans and Scarlett Johansson had surprisingly good chemistry, Anthony Mackie was enjoyable and the Shield/Hydra twist led the story into new grounds before Avengers 2.
2. Guardians of The Galaxy
The ultimate stand-alone movie, so stand-alone, no Avengers appeared at all. From Chris Pratt's comic timing, Bradley Cooper and Zoe Saldana's general bad-assery, "I am Groot", Dave Bautista's dry and funny delivery and the Awesome Mix Vol. 1, this is not only a brilliant Marvel movie, it's a brilliant film in general, filled with fun moments, dramatic moments and even a tear-jerker or two. The sequel can not come fast enough!
1. The Avengers
No surprises here! A film which brings 6 heroes from 5 movies together, kick as much butt as they can and eat shawarma together afterwards is just plain amazing. The best heroes against the best villain in an epic battle that was more than just visuals (take note Transformers) and brought the biggest laughs of any Marvel film. Bring on Age of Ultron!
10. The Incredible Hulk
Although it is an enjoyable film, compared to the rest of the movies, it doesn't match the success of the others.
9. Captain America: The First Avenger
Again, enjoyable to watch, but it was a little lackluster at times and felt more like an introduction piece for The Avengers rather than a stand-alone film.
8. Iron Man 2
The worse of the trilogy, but I still like this film, despite what the critics say. Tony Stark being Tony Stark, Scarlett Johansson as a kick-ass spy, Mickey Rourke as the baddie, lots of great stuff in this film!
7. Thor: The Dark World
This film suffered from a forgetable villain, very little use of Loki and scientific mumbo-jumbo. However, the main cast were brilliant and hold the film very well, plus it's set in London!
6. Iron Man 3
The de facto sequel to The Avengers definitely had epic qualities, especially in The Mandarin and Killian. However, Tony Stark wasn't the wise-cracking smart-alec we loved, no AC/DC and it didn't need to be Christmas based, but that's just nitpicking. Plus, I liked The Mandarin twist, even if the critics didn't!
5. Thor
I love this film, Chris Hemsworth was funny, Natalie Portman was adorably intelligent and Tom Hiddleston was just plain awesome. The "fish-out-of-water" scenario worked well and the subtle Avengers hints also give some sub-text. Plus, it works as a stand-alone film.
4. Iron Man
The film that started it all. The first 30 minutes of the film were brilliant, the rest of the film continues that trend. The chemistry of Robert Downey Jr. and Gwyneth Paltrow was sublime, Jeff Bridges played a brilliant villain and it had a good dollop of Marvel humour thrown in too.
3. Captain America: The Winter Soldier
The way better sequel that made Captain America cool! It had a spy feel to it, Chris Evans and Scarlett Johansson had surprisingly good chemistry, Anthony Mackie was enjoyable and the Shield/Hydra twist led the story into new grounds before Avengers 2.
2. Guardians of The Galaxy
The ultimate stand-alone movie, so stand-alone, no Avengers appeared at all. From Chris Pratt's comic timing, Bradley Cooper and Zoe Saldana's general bad-assery, "I am Groot", Dave Bautista's dry and funny delivery and the Awesome Mix Vol. 1, this is not only a brilliant Marvel movie, it's a brilliant film in general, filled with fun moments, dramatic moments and even a tear-jerker or two. The sequel can not come fast enough!
1. The Avengers
No surprises here! A film which brings 6 heroes from 5 movies together, kick as much butt as they can and eat shawarma together afterwards is just plain amazing. The best heroes against the best villain in an epic battle that was more than just visuals (take note Transformers) and brought the biggest laughs of any Marvel film. Bring on Age of Ultron!
Sunday, 17 August 2014
WWE: SummerSlam 2014 Predictions
That's right, I'm doing wrestling predictions now! And I'm starting with the biggest event of the summer and possibly one of the biggest this year, SummerSlam! There are some big matches this year and after the amazing Battleground PPV last month, let's hope SummerSlam delivers.
1. Bray Wyatt vs. Chris Jericho
This is basically the Cena/Wyatt feud, but with a clear view of who is the good guy and the bad guy. Since Jericho came back after Money In The Bank, it's all been about his feud with the Wyatt Family. Battleground's match could have been match of the night, but it failed to deliver, but with Harper and Rowan banned from ringside, this will be a true test of strength and could bring some drama to proceedings.
Result: Bray Wyatt
2. Seth Rollins vs. Dean Ambrose
This has been the match we've been waiting for since Payback, this feud has given us some entertaining moments (Ambrose in a gift box, for example) and could be an unforgetable match. The only concern could be the fact it's a Lumberjack match, I understand that it's so no one can escape, but a steel cage would do that just fine, no need to bring more people into this. Lumberjacks aside, it'll be great seeing Ambrose going nuts and beating the hell out of Rollins!
Result: Dean Ambrose
3. The Miz vs. Dolph Ziggler
One of three title matches on the card. The Miz's whole Moneymaker thing is annoying, but I assume that's the point. However, this could be the moment the WWE Universe has waited for and Ziggler will get the push fans have been screaming out for, that being said, it could be a massive "middle-finger" to fans like it was at Battleground. In this match I hope for two things, Ziggler winning and the Moneymaker getting broke!
Result: Dolph Ziggler
4. AJ Lee vs. Paige
The second title match of the evening. I am a fan of both AJ and Paige and the "frenemy" thing is a nice touch, but it's a shame that Paige has now become one of two Divas stereotypes, the crazy girl (the other being the pretty air-head). AJ Lee is Queen Crazy and is good at it, but Paige didn't need to be crazy too. That aside, I just hope both of them actually give us a match and actually try to beat one another, but there's only one way this match will go.
Result: AJ Lee
5. Jack Swagger vs. Rusev
This is my personal favourite feud right now. You've got two non-chatty behemoths being represented by a Yosemite Sam look-a-like and an annoying, albeit attractive woman. After an anticlimatic end to their Battleground match, this time it's a Flag Match, which is basically a way of Swagger winning without having to pin or submit Rusev. And admit it, part of you just wants to see Lana go crazy and scream at Rusev when he loses!
Result: Jack Swagger
6. Randy Orton vs. Roman Reigns
A favourite to be match of the night. Both of these men are arguably the top dogs of WWE right now (sorry Cena & Lesnar!) and despite what you think of Orton, he is a good wrestler, he just needs to drop the "Face of WWE" gimmick. And of course the Shield's Powerhouse has been unstoppable since the Hounds of Justice went their separate ways, weird to think Rollins' choice to break up The Shield worked out better for Reigns than himself! This could be the makings of a traditional and awesome match that could see the winner catapult themself to a title shot.
Result: Roman Reigns
7. Brie Bella vs. Stephanie McMahon
Can't get Daniel Bryan? Get his wife instead! The whole "Brie quitting WWE" thing was shelved for a while, but it came back with a bite after Battleground and Stephanie's arrest. A truly brilliant feud, though it could have been done with less police and legal talk (who knew slapping someone was an arrestable offense?) The only issue is that I don't think this match will even happen. The last two matches Stephanie was meant to have never happened and I don't think this one will either. But if it does, Stephanie will find a way to win and thus continue the reign of the Authority.
Result: No Match
8. John Cena vs Brock Lesnar
The third and biggest title match of them all! Cena has been on a roll since winning at Money In The Bank and Lesnar did the impossible at Wrestlemania. But there are two different outcomes after this match: If Cena wins, Lesnar will disappear and won't come back for a while, if Lesnar wins, he becomes one of the biggest names in WWE history as winning the title will be the icing on the cake after beating the Undertaker and Cena will face him at Night of Champions where he will lose and Cena continues his reign. It's just a question of how big do the WWE want Lesnar to be?
Result: Brock Lesnar
Come back soon as I'll review the whole night and next month's PPV.
1. Bray Wyatt vs. Chris Jericho
This is basically the Cena/Wyatt feud, but with a clear view of who is the good guy and the bad guy. Since Jericho came back after Money In The Bank, it's all been about his feud with the Wyatt Family. Battleground's match could have been match of the night, but it failed to deliver, but with Harper and Rowan banned from ringside, this will be a true test of strength and could bring some drama to proceedings.
Result: Bray Wyatt
2. Seth Rollins vs. Dean Ambrose
This has been the match we've been waiting for since Payback, this feud has given us some entertaining moments (Ambrose in a gift box, for example) and could be an unforgetable match. The only concern could be the fact it's a Lumberjack match, I understand that it's so no one can escape, but a steel cage would do that just fine, no need to bring more people into this. Lumberjacks aside, it'll be great seeing Ambrose going nuts and beating the hell out of Rollins!
Result: Dean Ambrose
3. The Miz vs. Dolph Ziggler
One of three title matches on the card. The Miz's whole Moneymaker thing is annoying, but I assume that's the point. However, this could be the moment the WWE Universe has waited for and Ziggler will get the push fans have been screaming out for, that being said, it could be a massive "middle-finger" to fans like it was at Battleground. In this match I hope for two things, Ziggler winning and the Moneymaker getting broke!
Result: Dolph Ziggler
4. AJ Lee vs. Paige
The second title match of the evening. I am a fan of both AJ and Paige and the "frenemy" thing is a nice touch, but it's a shame that Paige has now become one of two Divas stereotypes, the crazy girl (the other being the pretty air-head). AJ Lee is Queen Crazy and is good at it, but Paige didn't need to be crazy too. That aside, I just hope both of them actually give us a match and actually try to beat one another, but there's only one way this match will go.
Result: AJ Lee
5. Jack Swagger vs. Rusev
This is my personal favourite feud right now. You've got two non-chatty behemoths being represented by a Yosemite Sam look-a-like and an annoying, albeit attractive woman. After an anticlimatic end to their Battleground match, this time it's a Flag Match, which is basically a way of Swagger winning without having to pin or submit Rusev. And admit it, part of you just wants to see Lana go crazy and scream at Rusev when he loses!
Result: Jack Swagger
6. Randy Orton vs. Roman Reigns
A favourite to be match of the night. Both of these men are arguably the top dogs of WWE right now (sorry Cena & Lesnar!) and despite what you think of Orton, he is a good wrestler, he just needs to drop the "Face of WWE" gimmick. And of course the Shield's Powerhouse has been unstoppable since the Hounds of Justice went their separate ways, weird to think Rollins' choice to break up The Shield worked out better for Reigns than himself! This could be the makings of a traditional and awesome match that could see the winner catapult themself to a title shot.
Result: Roman Reigns
7. Brie Bella vs. Stephanie McMahon
Can't get Daniel Bryan? Get his wife instead! The whole "Brie quitting WWE" thing was shelved for a while, but it came back with a bite after Battleground and Stephanie's arrest. A truly brilliant feud, though it could have been done with less police and legal talk (who knew slapping someone was an arrestable offense?) The only issue is that I don't think this match will even happen. The last two matches Stephanie was meant to have never happened and I don't think this one will either. But if it does, Stephanie will find a way to win and thus continue the reign of the Authority.
Result: No Match
8. John Cena vs Brock Lesnar
The third and biggest title match of them all! Cena has been on a roll since winning at Money In The Bank and Lesnar did the impossible at Wrestlemania. But there are two different outcomes after this match: If Cena wins, Lesnar will disappear and won't come back for a while, if Lesnar wins, he becomes one of the biggest names in WWE history as winning the title will be the icing on the cake after beating the Undertaker and Cena will face him at Night of Champions where he will lose and Cena continues his reign. It's just a question of how big do the WWE want Lesnar to be?
Result: Brock Lesnar
Come back soon as I'll review the whole night and next month's PPV.
Sunday, 20 July 2014
TV: Emmy Nominations 2014 (Comedy)
Continuing a nobel tradition for the third year running, it's time to dissect this year's Emmy Comedy nominations. As usual, I'll just focus on the acting awards and the Best Comedy Award.
Best Comedy Series
The Big Bang Theory
Louie
Modern Family
Orange Is The New Black
Silicon Valley
Veep
Two brand new series are up for the big prize this year, Orange is The New Black is one of my favourite shows at the moment and I would love for it to get some Emmy love, but this is just for the first season, I think it'll get much more love next year. After four straight years of wins, I don't think Modern Family will make it a fifth, although I think it has got a bit better this season than last, it might be time for a new king of comedy. Personally, I'd go with The Big Bang Theory, but that's me. I think it's a tie between the veteran Modern Family and the plucky upstart Orange Is The New Black.
Best Lead Actor
Louis C.K - Louie
Don Cheadle - House of Lies
Ricky Gervais - Derek
Matt Le Blanc - Episodes
William H. Macy - Shameless
Jim Parsons - The Big Bang Theory
I 'm happy that Ricky Gervais and Matt Le Blanc have nominations in this category... shocked but happy. Gervais expanded his acting range as the loveable Derek and Matt Le Blanc is just awesome as himself in Episodes. My personal opinion would be to just give it to Parsons again, but I think it's a tie between him and Gervais for this award.
Best Lead Actress
Lena Dunham - Girls
Edie Falco - Nurse Jackie
Julia Louis-Dreyfus - Veep
Melissa McCarthy - Mike & Molly
Amy Poehler - Parks & Recreation
Taylor Schilling - Orange Is The New Black
Lots of heavy hitters in this category. Very happy that Taylor Schilling has a nomination, but compared to the rest of the list, she is definitely the underdog. Based on past experiences, I'd say Louis-Dreyfus is favourite, but this is definitely the most open field of the awards. Though I want Schilling to win!
Best Supporting Actor
Fred Armisen - Portlandia
Andre Braugher - Brooklyn Nine-Nine
Ty Burrell - Modern Family
Adam Driver - Girls
Jesse Tyler Ferguson - Modern Family
Tony Hale - Veep
Only two of the Modern Family gang are in this category, and the right two in my opinion. Although I would love to see Ferguson win as Burrell won one three years ago, I think neither of the MF gang will win. Although I have never seen either of the shows, I think it's between Hale, Armisen and Braugher.
Best Supporting Actress
Mayim Bialik - The Big Bang Theory
Julie Bowen - Modern Family
Anna Chlumsky - Veep
Allison Janney - Mom
Kate McKinnon - Saturday Night Live
Kate Mulgrew - Orange Is The New Black
Like the Lead Actress category, there are a lot of big names on this list and like her co-star, Kate Mulgrew is the underdog. However, her portrayal of Red in OITNB is brilliant and definitely deserves some recognition as her other co-star Lorraine Toussiant (Vee) is firm favourite to sweep the Emmys in 2015. And of course I want either Bialik or Bowen to win, but I think the smart money should be on Mulgrew to take the prize.
Best Guest Actor
Steve Buscemi - Portlandia
Louis C.K - Saturday Night Live
Gary Cole - Veep
Jimmy Fallon - Saturday Night Live
Nathan Lane - Modern Family
Bob Newhart - The Big Bang Theory
First of all, I am disappointed that James Earl Jones is not on this list. I loved his appearance on the Big Bang Theory and thought it was an Emmy contender, but Bob Newhart is on the list, so I will give them some credit. While I do like Jimmy Fallon, Nathan Lane was great in Modern Family as the crazed wedding planner/Gay BFF Pepper, so I would give it to him, though I think it'll go to Newhart again.
Best Guest Actress
Uzo Aduba - Orange Is The New Black
Laverne Cox - Orange Is The New Black
Joan Cusack - Shameless
Tina Fey - Saturday Night Live
Natasha Lyonne - Orange Is The New Black
Melissa McCarthy - Saturday Night Live
Why are three of the OITNB cast are on this list confuses me as they all appeared in more than one episode? Looking past that, there are some good choices on this list. I do like both Lyonne and Cox, but Aduba should and will win this award. Possible OITNB nominees for next year should be Yael Stone and Samira Wiley as Morello and Poussey respectively as they really shone in season 2.
Who I think SHOULD win:
Best Comedy Series: Orange Is The New Black
Best Lead Actor: Matt Le Blanc
Best Lead Actress: Taylor Schilling
Best Supporting Actor: Jesse Tyler Ferguson
Best Supporting Actress: Kate Mulgrew
Best Guest Actor: Nathan Lane
Best Guest Acress: Uzo Aduba
Who I think WILL win:
Best Comedy Series: Modern Family
Best Lead Actor: Jim Parsons
Best Lead Actress: Julia Louis-Dreyfus
Best Supporting Actor: Tony Hale
Best Supporting Actress: Julie Bowen/Kate Mulgrew
Best Guest Actor: Bob Newhart
Best Supporting Actress: Uzo Aduba
Best Comedy Series
The Big Bang Theory
Louie
Modern Family
Orange Is The New Black
Silicon Valley
Veep
Two brand new series are up for the big prize this year, Orange is The New Black is one of my favourite shows at the moment and I would love for it to get some Emmy love, but this is just for the first season, I think it'll get much more love next year. After four straight years of wins, I don't think Modern Family will make it a fifth, although I think it has got a bit better this season than last, it might be time for a new king of comedy. Personally, I'd go with The Big Bang Theory, but that's me. I think it's a tie between the veteran Modern Family and the plucky upstart Orange Is The New Black.
Best Lead Actor
Louis C.K - Louie
Don Cheadle - House of Lies
Ricky Gervais - Derek
Matt Le Blanc - Episodes
William H. Macy - Shameless
Jim Parsons - The Big Bang Theory
I 'm happy that Ricky Gervais and Matt Le Blanc have nominations in this category... shocked but happy. Gervais expanded his acting range as the loveable Derek and Matt Le Blanc is just awesome as himself in Episodes. My personal opinion would be to just give it to Parsons again, but I think it's a tie between him and Gervais for this award.
Best Lead Actress
Lena Dunham - Girls
Edie Falco - Nurse Jackie
Julia Louis-Dreyfus - Veep
Melissa McCarthy - Mike & Molly
Amy Poehler - Parks & Recreation
Taylor Schilling - Orange Is The New Black
Lots of heavy hitters in this category. Very happy that Taylor Schilling has a nomination, but compared to the rest of the list, she is definitely the underdog. Based on past experiences, I'd say Louis-Dreyfus is favourite, but this is definitely the most open field of the awards. Though I want Schilling to win!
Best Supporting Actor
Fred Armisen - Portlandia
Andre Braugher - Brooklyn Nine-Nine
Ty Burrell - Modern Family
Adam Driver - Girls
Jesse Tyler Ferguson - Modern Family
Tony Hale - Veep
Only two of the Modern Family gang are in this category, and the right two in my opinion. Although I would love to see Ferguson win as Burrell won one three years ago, I think neither of the MF gang will win. Although I have never seen either of the shows, I think it's between Hale, Armisen and Braugher.
Best Supporting Actress
Mayim Bialik - The Big Bang Theory
Julie Bowen - Modern Family
Anna Chlumsky - Veep
Allison Janney - Mom
Kate McKinnon - Saturday Night Live
Kate Mulgrew - Orange Is The New Black
Like the Lead Actress category, there are a lot of big names on this list and like her co-star, Kate Mulgrew is the underdog. However, her portrayal of Red in OITNB is brilliant and definitely deserves some recognition as her other co-star Lorraine Toussiant (Vee) is firm favourite to sweep the Emmys in 2015. And of course I want either Bialik or Bowen to win, but I think the smart money should be on Mulgrew to take the prize.
Best Guest Actor
Steve Buscemi - Portlandia
Louis C.K - Saturday Night Live
Gary Cole - Veep
Jimmy Fallon - Saturday Night Live
Nathan Lane - Modern Family
Bob Newhart - The Big Bang Theory
First of all, I am disappointed that James Earl Jones is not on this list. I loved his appearance on the Big Bang Theory and thought it was an Emmy contender, but Bob Newhart is on the list, so I will give them some credit. While I do like Jimmy Fallon, Nathan Lane was great in Modern Family as the crazed wedding planner/Gay BFF Pepper, so I would give it to him, though I think it'll go to Newhart again.
Best Guest Actress
Uzo Aduba - Orange Is The New Black
Laverne Cox - Orange Is The New Black
Joan Cusack - Shameless
Tina Fey - Saturday Night Live
Natasha Lyonne - Orange Is The New Black
Melissa McCarthy - Saturday Night Live
Why are three of the OITNB cast are on this list confuses me as they all appeared in more than one episode? Looking past that, there are some good choices on this list. I do like both Lyonne and Cox, but Aduba should and will win this award. Possible OITNB nominees for next year should be Yael Stone and Samira Wiley as Morello and Poussey respectively as they really shone in season 2.
Who I think SHOULD win:
Best Comedy Series: Orange Is The New Black
Best Lead Actor: Matt Le Blanc
Best Lead Actress: Taylor Schilling
Best Supporting Actor: Jesse Tyler Ferguson
Best Supporting Actress: Kate Mulgrew
Best Guest Actor: Nathan Lane
Best Guest Acress: Uzo Aduba
Who I think WILL win:
Best Comedy Series: Modern Family
Best Lead Actor: Jim Parsons
Best Lead Actress: Julia Louis-Dreyfus
Best Supporting Actor: Tony Hale
Best Supporting Actress: Julie Bowen/Kate Mulgrew
Best Guest Actor: Bob Newhart
Best Supporting Actress: Uzo Aduba
Tuesday, 20 August 2013
TV: Under The Dome
This is the biggest drama of the summer in the US and it came to UK shores last night and I decided to watch it.
It's an adaptation of Stephen King's book of the same name, where a small town tries to survive when a mysterious dome falls down on to it sectioning them from the rest of the world.
This show has miles of intrigue and questions, the main one being "who put the dome there and why?" which will keep viewers watching week after week. There are some interesting casting choices too, mainly Jeff Fahey (Lost) and Dean Norris (Breaking Bad).
Two issues I have with this show, mainly with the format, rather than the story. My first issue is that this would be a lot better as a movie or trilogy as 13 weeks of the same people in the same area will get rather boring, you can't do what Lost did and add new people at random and assume they were there the whole time.
The second issue is the network it's on in America (this doesn't concern UK viewers), in the US, this is being broadcast on CBS, one of the four biggest networks in the country and network TV today can't do drama well, especially with Homeland, Game of Thrones, Breaking Bad, Walking Dead, etc. dominating the cable networks. No network TV drama has been nominated for an Emmy for 2 years now because cable TV dramas break barriers, do more daring things and haven't got as many executives trying to water down any crazy original ideas that writers may have. Under The Dome has potential to shock audiences with twists and turns, but with it being run by a major network and with it being an adaptation, I just hope higher powers won't ruin it and make it predictable.
Bottom line: A great idea, great concept, impressive first episode, keep it going and keep the audience guessing!
It's an adaptation of Stephen King's book of the same name, where a small town tries to survive when a mysterious dome falls down on to it sectioning them from the rest of the world.
This show has miles of intrigue and questions, the main one being "who put the dome there and why?" which will keep viewers watching week after week. There are some interesting casting choices too, mainly Jeff Fahey (Lost) and Dean Norris (Breaking Bad).
Two issues I have with this show, mainly with the format, rather than the story. My first issue is that this would be a lot better as a movie or trilogy as 13 weeks of the same people in the same area will get rather boring, you can't do what Lost did and add new people at random and assume they were there the whole time.
The second issue is the network it's on in America (this doesn't concern UK viewers), in the US, this is being broadcast on CBS, one of the four biggest networks in the country and network TV today can't do drama well, especially with Homeland, Game of Thrones, Breaking Bad, Walking Dead, etc. dominating the cable networks. No network TV drama has been nominated for an Emmy for 2 years now because cable TV dramas break barriers, do more daring things and haven't got as many executives trying to water down any crazy original ideas that writers may have. Under The Dome has potential to shock audiences with twists and turns, but with it being run by a major network and with it being an adaptation, I just hope higher powers won't ruin it and make it predictable.
Bottom line: A great idea, great concept, impressive first episode, keep it going and keep the audience guessing!
Thursday, 8 August 2013
TV: My Guide To 2013-14 US Comedies
As you may or may not know, my life revolves around US comedies, I know what works and what doesn't, though my opinions and interests sometimes differ from the norm. I've watched a load of promos for the new US comedies on Youtube and I am gonna help you work out which ones to watch, avoid or give a chance.
MUST WATCH:
We Are Men: 4 divorced guys living in a bachelor apartment building trying to get back in the dating world. I was skeptical, but this actually looks entertaining, Tony Shaloub is the star of this show and it does have a certain charm to it as well!
Dads: Two guys trying to cope with their elderly, crazy fathers. Again, this surprised me and I know some people will hate this show, but Seth Green & Giovanni Ribisi are the stars and I do like both of them. There are some decent gags in this show and I will definitely be watching it.
The Crazy Ones: A dad and daughter run an ad agency. First of all, Robin Williams and Sarah Michelle Gellar are in it, that's already great, but this one has heart as well as laughs. Think a funny version of Mad Men. One to watch especially for the star value.
The Michael J. Fox Show: A news reporter returns to TV after battling Parkinson's Disease, partly based on Fox's own life. Another show to watch for the star value, Back To The Future is one of my favourite films and I am glad Michael J Fox is back on TV. The show is quite heart-warming and entertaining simply because of Fox.
MUST AVOID:
The Millers: This is being billed as CBS's big new comedy, though I think it falls on its face as it's full of cliches and annoying characters. I do like Will Arnett, because of Arrested Development, so it is a shame he's doing this.
Trophy Wife: All Modern Family fans should avoid this show as it's a lame attempt to be like it, even Modern Family today is still better than this.
The Goldbergs: It's basically an excuse to appeal to the 80's kids, it doesn't appeal or impress me that much.
GIVE IT A CHANCE:
Mom: A waitress tries to cope with raising her two kids and her mother. This is definitely a show which is on the fence for me. I do grow tired of the whole "blame the parents" bits on comedies nowadays, but Anna Faris & Allison Janney are good in this, so give it chance.
Surviving Jack: A father tries to help raise his kids. This does have legs, but like with The Goldbergs, this tries to appeal to a certain era, I'd give it a chance as 90's culture is starting to get popular and this had more of a drive to it.
Us & Them: Two people from different walks of life meet and fall in love. I know this is the "Gavin & Stacey" remake, but I think this looks really good and it should at least be given a chance.
I know I haven't gotten to all the new US comedies as there are a lot of them, but these were the ones that stood out for whatever reason. If you live in the USA, hope this helps. Anyway else, if they make it to Comedy Central or E4, you know they are good!
MUST WATCH:
We Are Men: 4 divorced guys living in a bachelor apartment building trying to get back in the dating world. I was skeptical, but this actually looks entertaining, Tony Shaloub is the star of this show and it does have a certain charm to it as well!
Dads: Two guys trying to cope with their elderly, crazy fathers. Again, this surprised me and I know some people will hate this show, but Seth Green & Giovanni Ribisi are the stars and I do like both of them. There are some decent gags in this show and I will definitely be watching it.
The Crazy Ones: A dad and daughter run an ad agency. First of all, Robin Williams and Sarah Michelle Gellar are in it, that's already great, but this one has heart as well as laughs. Think a funny version of Mad Men. One to watch especially for the star value.
The Michael J. Fox Show: A news reporter returns to TV after battling Parkinson's Disease, partly based on Fox's own life. Another show to watch for the star value, Back To The Future is one of my favourite films and I am glad Michael J Fox is back on TV. The show is quite heart-warming and entertaining simply because of Fox.
MUST AVOID:
The Millers: This is being billed as CBS's big new comedy, though I think it falls on its face as it's full of cliches and annoying characters. I do like Will Arnett, because of Arrested Development, so it is a shame he's doing this.
Trophy Wife: All Modern Family fans should avoid this show as it's a lame attempt to be like it, even Modern Family today is still better than this.
The Goldbergs: It's basically an excuse to appeal to the 80's kids, it doesn't appeal or impress me that much.
GIVE IT A CHANCE:
Mom: A waitress tries to cope with raising her two kids and her mother. This is definitely a show which is on the fence for me. I do grow tired of the whole "blame the parents" bits on comedies nowadays, but Anna Faris & Allison Janney are good in this, so give it chance.
Surviving Jack: A father tries to help raise his kids. This does have legs, but like with The Goldbergs, this tries to appeal to a certain era, I'd give it a chance as 90's culture is starting to get popular and this had more of a drive to it.
Us & Them: Two people from different walks of life meet and fall in love. I know this is the "Gavin & Stacey" remake, but I think this looks really good and it should at least be given a chance.
I know I haven't gotten to all the new US comedies as there are a lot of them, but these were the ones that stood out for whatever reason. If you live in the USA, hope this helps. Anyway else, if they make it to Comedy Central or E4, you know they are good!
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