Why It’s Worth a Watch Wednesday – More of the Brilliant and Troubled

July 11, 2012 By 12 Comments

This week on Why It’s Worth a Watch Wednesday, Tiffany and I take on criminals with Tiffany’s review of TNT’s The Closer and my look at the BBC drama, Luther.

Last week I talked about the quirky/troubled detective/consultant shows that seem oh-so-popular as of late.

Guess what? They have them across the pond, too. And no, I’m not talking about Sherlock (who, in its original form, is likely the father to these shows). I’m talking about Luther.

Detective Chief Inspector John Luther (Idris Elba) of the Serious Crime Unit is the focus of this psychological crime drama. DCI Luther is a crime fighter dealing with his own personal “demons”, a crumbling marriage, distrust from fellow officers and higher ups, yet he is ultimately the guy you want solving crimes because he is brilliant.

Sounds familiar?

Watch them think. And brood.

I couldn’t help but think of Detective Robert Goren of Law and Order: Criminal Intent when I began watching and researching this show.

Luther, however, is a grittier drama than Law and Order, and Idris Elba delivers a different take on the intelligent yet troubled detective.

Now, I’ve let it be known that I enjoy the troubled genius (do I need to list them again?) but that isn’t the only thing that drew me to check out Luther. Neil Cross, creator of Luther, was a lead writer for Spooks (MI-5, as it’s known here in the US), is an avid Doctor Who fan (he’s even written an episode!) and seems to have great taste in fiction, so it only made sense to check out more of his work.

If you like gritty psychological drama, Luther is definitely worth watching. Idris Elba even took home a Golden Globe for his performance in the show. And for those who aren’t looking for a huge commitment, there are only 10 episodes to catch up on, which can be found on Netflix.

While I can’t say that the concept is surprisingly original, the delivery is worth a GMacTV.

Have you seen Luther? Do you think it’s one you’ll be adding to the queue? Do you choose to watch shows based on the creators/writers previous work?

Now, head over to Tiffany’s for more drama, with TNT’s The Closer. It’s down to the last few episodes, so see if Tiffany thinks it’s worth catching up.

What shows would you like to see reviewed here on Why It’s Worth a Watch? We’re still in scheduling talks during the summer, so get your suggestions in!

Remember to stop by the #watchwed hashtag in Twitter to discuss any of today’s reviews, or to mention any television programs that you’d like to see on Why It’s Worth a Watch Wednesday in the future.
A Recap of The WatchWed Review System:
GTV (Gourmet TV): Everything we want and more
MacTV (MacNCheese TV): Guilty pleasure. Not perfect, but is satisfies
GMacTV (Gourmet MacNCheese TV): A combination of fine wine and comfort food
JFTV (Junk food TV): It’s not great for us, but we’ll go back for seconds
TBPTV (Twice Baked Potato TV): Part gourmet and delicious, while absolutely horrible for our cholesterol
SSTV (Still Simmering TV): It has potential, but the jury is still out
NIV (Nyquil Induced Viewing): Perfect for that late night television sleep timer
LOTV (Liver&Onions TV): Do we really have to explain? Blech

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Why It’s Worth A Watch Wednesday – These Are Their Stories

December 14, 2011 By 16 Comments

As 2011 winds down, so does the need to tell you about any new programming on the TV. As a matter of fact, a lot of shows start showing reruns, leaving our DVR queue a little quiet.

This week, Tiffany and I share a few of our standby shows. They’re the ones we turn on while we fold endless piles of laundry, bake cupcakes, or pretend to get something done in the house.

My pick is one of a large and successful franchise: Law and Order. Specifically, Law & Order: Criminal Intent.

The original Law & Order has been around since 1990, and at the time of its final episode last year it was the longest running crime drama around. Criminal Intent began in 2001 and ended just this past May. While not as long running as the original, it definitely held its own with a ten year run, and for this TV watcher, it was the one that kept me tuned in.

Where the original series focused on the police catching criminals and the prosecutors bringing them to justice, L&O:CI paid more attention to the motives of the criminals. The show spent time singling out the criminal, showing what drove them, and generally ended with a confession. Unlike the other L&O series, Criminal Intent did not focus on the prosecutorial element.

So, for a TV viewer who likes good court case viewing, what made me choose the one L&O that shies away from the courtroom?

Simply put, Detective Robert Goren. The primary detectives working cases during the length of the series are Goren and Eames. Goren is a detective who has pays close attention to minor details, has a wide array of knowledge, and possesses a special knack for getting into the head (and often, under the skin) of the criminals he encounters.

Regular readers know how much I love the guys with a gift – Shawn Spencer, Dr. House, Patrick Jane – so it should come as no surprise that the character of Detective Goren holds a special place in my TV heart. After all, it is rumored that his character, like House, is based on Sherlock Holmes.

As the series continued, elements of his life are very slowly revealed that bring to light how he could be so good at what he does, and why he isn’t always appreciated for it. As a matter of fact, this is an element of CI I didn’t expect to appreciate; the characters personal lives are rarely touched on in the show.

Aside from loving the character, I will admit that the fact that he is played by the brilliant Vincent D’Onofrio is the biggest reason that this show is on regular rotation in my house. Whether he’s doing Kubrick, playing a demented serial killer, a tormented writer*, or an alien, I’ve never been disappointed with him in any role. Detective Goren’s character is occasionally over the top in interrogations, but D’Onofrio’s delivery keeps me watching.

While I wasn’t thrilled when the show added another set of detectives to share the caseload, it was definitely still watchable, particularly with actors like Chris Noth joining the cast for a few seasons.

Is this show an amazing feat of writing? No. The cases are often predictable, and some lines are occasionally cheesy, which is why I give this show the MacTV rating. But just like my mac n’ cheese, I’ll eat it by the bowlful, even the cheap kind from the box. Low on the nutritional value, but it will forever be a pantry staple.

Given my earlier post, I opted for a "mature" photo here.

And yes, I did, and probably forever will, have a bit of a crush on Mr. D’Onofrio.

Are you a fan of any of the L&O franchise? Does anyone share my admiration for the “actor’s actor”, Vincent D’Onofrio? What’s your laundry day go to?

Now click over to Tiffany’s blog and find out what she tunes in to when the household chores are piling up.

Come back next week to see what we have cooking!

Remember to stop by the #watchwed hashtag in Twitter to discuss any of today’s reviews, or to mention any television programs that you’d like to see on Why It’s Worth a Watch Wednesday in the future.

*The Whole Wide World is based on the memoirs of Novalyne Price, following her relationship with the writer Robert Howard, creator of Conan the Barbarian. Random trivia time: Renee Zellweger thanked him when she accepted her Oscar for Cold Mountain. This movie is the reason why.

A Recap of The WatchWed Review System:

GTV (Gourmet TV): Everything we want and more
MacTV (MacNCheese TV): Guilty pleasure. Not perfect, but is satisfies
GMacTV (Gourmet MacNCheese TV): A combination of fine wine and comfort food
JFTV (Junk food TV): It’s not great for us, but we’ll go back for seconds
TBPTV (Twice Baked Potato TV): Part gourmet and delicious, while absolutely horrible for our cholesterol
SSTV (Still Simmering TV): It has potential, but the jury is still out
NIV (Nyquil Induced Viewing): Perfect for that late night television sleep timer
LOTV (Liver&Onions TV): Do we really have to explain? Blech

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Why It’s Worth a Watch Wednesday – All About the Law

October 5, 2011 By 23 Comments

This week on Why It’s Worth a Watch Wednesday, Tiffany and I talk some more legal drama, with her take on the last surviving member of the Law and Order franchise, and my views on the much newer Harry’s Law.

For you regular readers, you’ll recall last week that I confessed an unexplained love for legal TV shows.  It would stand to reason that I would be excited about a new addition to my list.

Harriet Korn (Kathy Bates), or “Harry”, was a successful patent lawyer.  That is, until she loses her drive and is fired when her boss finds her watching cartoons and smoking pot in her office.  Shortly after this, a man trying to commit suicide jumps off a building and lands on her.  She survives, only to be hit by a car right after being released from the hospital.

Um.  Okay.

It gets better.  The guy who hits her, Adam (Nate Corddry) happens to be a young lawyer who thinks she is amazing and wants to work for her.  So, of course, it only makes sense then the two lawyers, along with Harry’s former assistant Jenna (Brittany Snow) go into business together.  They set up shop in a high end shoe store in the ghetto.

Yes.  For reals.

So, here is the thing about David E. Kelley, the show’s creator.  He knows how to write and he knows law, having had a practice in Boston.  This isn’t the first time he’s combined his talents, not by a long shot.  L.A. Law, The Practice, Ally McBeal, The Practice, not to mention non-legal drama like Doogie Howser, Chicago Hope and Boston Public.

Kelley often writes quirky, if not odd characters, doing it so well that you find yourself willing to go along for an unrealistic ride. I’m not hating on that fact.  As a matter of fact, Boston Legal is currently sitting in my DVD player (and not just for James Spader and Craig Bierko).  I can’t recall a closing argument delivered in Boston Legal, no matter how silly the case, that I wasn’t pulled in by the witty, heartfelt delivery.

Harry’s Law, however, seems to have gone just a bit too far into ridiculous territory.  As I mentioned the lawyer sets up shop in a shoe store, which just happens to still have a stockroom full of designer shows.  Jenna the assistant sees no reason why they shouldn’t sell shoes and be a law practice.  Well, Jenna, maybe because that sounds dumb.  What purpose does this serve beyond quirk?

Don’t get me wrong, there are some watch worthy moments, with the comedic timing of Nate Corddry and the talents of Kathy Bates.  However, even a Bates-delivered closing argument, while heartfelt and even moving, seems to be missing the wit of Kelley’s past shows.

For that reason, I can only give Harry’s Law a JFTV.  I will still tune in, because Kelley’s undeniable style is present, and I hope the show tightens up. It’s okay to be quirky, silly, and perhaps unbelievable, but it still needs to be witty and smart.

What do you think of David E. Kelley’s latest legal dramedy?  Are you generally a Kelley fan?  What’s your favorite past Kelley production?

Now, for more opinions on the law, or at least the law on TV, check out Tiffany’s take on Law and Order: SVU.

Come back next week when we switch over to FOX and review two supernatural programs – the new hit, Terra Nova, and the returning favorite, Fringe.

Remember to stop by the #watchwed hashtag in Twitter to discuss any of today’s reviews, or to mention any television programs that you’d like to see on Why It’s Worth a Watch Wednesday in the future.  We’re currently working on our September schedule and would love to chat with you!

A Recap of The WatchWed Review System:

GTV (Gourmet TV): Everything we want and more
MacTV (MacNCheese TV): Guilty pleasure. Not perfect, but is satisfies
JFTV (Junk food TV): It’s not great for us, but we’ll go back for seconds
SSTV (Still Simmering TV): It has potential, but the jury is still out
NIV (Nyquil Induced Viewing): Perfect for that late night television sleep timer
LOTV (Liver&Onions TV): Do we really have to explain? Blech

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Why It’s Worth a Watch Wednesday – The Good Wife

September 28, 2011 By 29 Comments

This week on Why It’s Worth a Watch, Tiffany and I continue to give some love to CBS with reviews of The Good Wife and Criminal Minds.

I’m a big fan of legal drama, old and new.  Suits, Law and Order, Boston Legal, The Practice, The Guardian; be it serious or funny or something in between, I enjoy the various elements that go into trying a case.  A television one at least.

The Good Wife delivers not only interesting legal battles, but a great out of the courtroom drama.  The show focuses on Alicia Florrick (Julianna Margulies), a woman who appears to be “standing by her man” as he becomes the center of a sex scandal and allegations of corruption in his role as State’s Attorney.  Sound familiar?  The creators were inspired by public figures like Eliot Spitzer, Bill Clinton, and John Edwards, to name a few.

In an effort to provide for her two teenage children while her husband Peter (Chris Noth) sits in prison, Alicia returns to work in a law firm as a junior litigator, after many years of being a stay at home mom.

A long way from Gilmore Girls...

Work brings its own challenges; Diane (Christine Baranski), a female partner who seems unsure of Alicia’s value to the firm, Will (Josh Charles), an old friend who she may or may not have feelings for, and Cary (Matt Czuchry), a young and ambitious associate who realizes that Alicia may be his biggest competition.

Despite the challenges, Alicia’s work brings her an opportunity to present herself as a strong woman dealing with the chaos of her husband’s public indiscretions, rather than a woman quietly wallowing or seeking out pity from others.

While the wider story is about Alicia’s life, the writers never phone in the legal battles.  In fact, the case prep brings us Kalinda Sharma (Archie Panjabi), the firm’s private investigator who secures information, sometimes via unethical means.  The courtroom arguments deliver solid and satisfying dialogue, not to mention excellent guest appearances, like Michael J. Fox and Martha Plimpton.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention Alan Cumming’s role, but to tell you who he plays might give something away if you don’t already watch, so just know that he is amazing in his delivery of the character Eli Gold.

In a show that houses so many actors I love (Julianna took home the Emmy this year, Alan Cumming is a genius in everything he does, and I’ve had a crush on Josh Charles since Sports Night) it should be no surprise that I give this show a GTV.  The writers manage to keep every character engaging, and every storyline crisp and entertaining, no small feat with everything this show has going on.

And I did mention Josh Charles, right?

Thank you, The Good Wife.

(N.B. According to online sources, the majority of the writers for this show are women. Another reason to love this show.)

If you’ve never watched, you can order Season 1 from Netflix (it currently is not a streaming option) or find episodes on iTunes.

If you aren’t watching this yet, why aren’t you?  Are you already a fan?  What makes you love or hate this show?  What is your favorite past legal drama?

Now head over to Tiffany’s blog to check out Criminal Minds, one of the few crime shows I haven’t seen! *gasp*

Come back next week when we click over to NBC and review two of the channel’s hit programs – Harry’s Law and Law & Order: SVU.  Can you guess which one you will find here?

Remember to stop by the #watchwed hashtag in Twitter to discuss any of today’s reviews, or to mention any television programs that you’d like to see on Why It’s Worth a Watch Wednesday in the future.  We’re currently working on our September schedule and would love to chat with you!

A Recap of The WatchWed Review System:
GTV (Gourmet TV): Everything we want and more
MacTV (MacNCheese TV): Guilty pleasure. Not perfect, but is satisfies
JFTV (Junk food TV): It’s not great for us, but we’ll go back for seconds
SSTV (Still Simmering TV): It has potential, but the jury is still out
NIV (Nyquil Induced Viewing): Perfect for that late night television sleep timer
LOTV (Liver&Onions TV): Do we really have to explain? Blech

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
«Older Posts