The Best of Friends

Just in time for my favorite awards show, I present to you some much anticipated commentary on my favorite award-winning show of all time:

The Becki Laird FRIENDS Top 10.

How did I craft this list?  My top 4 or 5 are easy, I always know them (though the order may vary). The next 15 or so are kind of fluid, and so this could change at any moment.  You may note that there are no episodes chosen from seasons 1 or 2.  It’s not that they aren’t great episodes, but I’d argue that they were really building the characters and stories in those season, and then once we get into season 3 the characters have really hit their stride, in both writing and acting.

There might be episodes that are more significant in the arc of the FRIENDS saga, or that are more emotional, or more consistent, etc, but these are the ten that never fail to make me laugh, probably harder than any others.

I had an easy list of another 10 (or maybe more) that I could have added – it truly depends on the day.  Please, tell me what I’ve excluded that you think deserves to be here.  I welcome your debate, and would gladly provide you with the next 10 if you’re interested.

#10 - Season 3, Episode 8 “The One with the Giant Poking Device” Written by Adam Chase, Directed by Gail Mancuso

Why it’s great: Classic Phoebe – thinks someone will die while she’s at the dentist is ultimately convinced it’s ugly naked guy who she’s killed.  This in and of itself as a fairly mundane plot….. but the gag with all the stuff tied together as the poking device absolutely slays me every time.  “Something this big and long is going to be
very difficult to maneuver, fortunately I have a lot of experience in this area.”

It’s a good episode over all – Janice appearance, emotional breakup, outstanding physical humor, Chandler & Pheobe’s “Endless Love” duet (they finally understand what Lionel Richie has been singing about), but ultimately it’s the poking device that makes it a top 10 for me.  What I don’t love: The babysitting/“Monica Bang” story line with Ben & the bear is a little annoying, but I look past it.


#9 – Season 10, Episode 11 “The One Where the Stripper Cries”  Written by David Crane & Marta Kauffman, Directed by Kevin Bright


This episode has a lot: The bachelorette story line, Danny Devito hilarious (if not absurd) portrayal of the stripper, Ellen Pompeo sighting (a year before Grey’s would start), and I ALWAYS love a flashback, but there are 2 things that ultimately MAKE this for me: Joey’s appearance on The Pyramid, and the Monica/Chandler/Ross explosion of secrets.

 Anytime there is a large rapid-fire reveal I cannot stop laughing. (“You were my midnight mystery kisser?” “You were my first kiss with Rachel?!” “You were my first kiss EVER?!”)  Watching everyone trying not to break while Danny Devito is dancing is pretty priceless as well.  Monica’s dancing at the end is just an added bonus.



#8 – Season 10, Episode 3 “The One with Ross’s Tan” written by Brian Buckner, directed by Gary Halvorson

I really was not a fan of the Rachel/Joey story line, so that part of the episode is wasted on me, but the rest of the episode more than makes up for it.  When the bridal party all got spray tans for my sister’s wedding, most of them had never seen this, so I made everyone watch it when we got home from the salon.  That’s how great I think it is.  More than 10 years later and anytime anyone mentions spray tans this comes up. It’s timeless.

And Jennifer Coolidge as fake-British Amanda is outstanding.  She steals every scene she’s in - and even the ones she's not! (“If you didn’t want to catch me on my mobile, then don’t call me on my mobile!!”)

#7 - Season 8, Episode 13 “The One Where Chandler Takes a Bath”  Written by Vanessa McCarthy, directed by Ben Weiss

And here we are, 2 seasons earlier, and we’re on Joey and Rachel again.  I didn’t really care for it regardless of where it fell in the series, but again, I can ignore this portion of the story line for the better parts. The baby naming /gender reveal bit is both amusing and sentimental (Pheobe or Pheobo), but the bath is the best.  I wouldn’t even need subplots.  If there was a whole episode just about Chandler taking a bath and people walking in on him, I think I’d be sold.  And when they all end up in the bathroom together – there are few things better.

#6 – Season 7, Episode 6 “The One with the Nap Partners”  written by Brian Buckner & Sebastian Jones, directed by Gary Halvorson

Confession: I had never seen “Die Hard” until about a month ago….  I finally get all of those references.

The sub plots of Chandler’s camp-girlfriend and the maids of honor are not bad, but the nap story line is one of my very favorites.  I love both that the nap happened and that Joey spends the remainder of the episode trying to convince Ross to do it again.

“Do you want to come up for a drink?”  “Sure, what do you have?”  “Warm milk and Excedrin PM.”


#5 – Season 10, Episode 2 “The one where Ross is Fine”   written by Sherry Bilsing-Graham & Ellen Plummer, directed by Ben Weiss

This is the only episode that has a consecutive episode also in my top 10, which is ironic, because as I’ve now mentioned repeatedly, I don’t care for the Joey/Rachel story line which both of these feature.  However, Ross is so hilarious in these, he outshines the dumb plot points.  David Schwimmer really does the ridiculous physical humor better than anyone.

Times I quote this episode:  when I’m eating Mexican food, when fajitas are mentioned, when there are margaritas, when a timer goes off in a kitchen (which happened a lot when I worked as a baker), when the pressure of entertaining gets to me, and (different plot point) when someone hands me a really organized binder.

This episode is both laugh out loud funny and touching – and that’s all I’m really ever looking for.


#4 – Season 8, Episode 4 “The one with the Videotape”  written by Scott Silveri, directed by Kevin S. Bright

As I mentioned before, I love an episode where the whole group is together, and also one where old secrets come out, especially in a rapid pace, which this episode has in mass quantity.

Everyone yelling together about the tape, fake names coming out, flashbacks – what else could you want?  This one gets less commentary but two photos -  a picture is worth a thousand words.

#3 – Season 5, Episode 14 “The One where Everyone Finds Out”  written by Alexa Junge, directed by Michael Lembeck

This has been one of my favorites since it originally aired (February 1999).  I’m fairly certain I recorded it at airdate (in my dorm room) and would watch that tape over and over.  It starts out strong with a revisit to Ugly Naked Guy, and then only grows from there.

Phoebe and Rachel finding out about Chandler and Monica is a great start, but I just love it once it spirals into “they don’t know we know they know.”  Pheobe’s bag of quarters is maybe one of my favorite physical gags in the whole series.  I can’t explain why, but I can’t stop laughing at it. As I was re-watching this I found that I can literally recite every line (and I quote it regularly).  It’s a problem.

I’d argue that there is no weak sub-plot or scene in this episode – Ugly Naked Guy, the ‘they don’t know” business, the seduction….. it’s nonstop.  A well-deserved spot in the top three.

Bonus: We get to meet Hugsy, the bedtime penguin pal, for the first time.

#2 – Season 4, Episode 12 “The one with the Embryos” written by Jill Condon & Amy Toomin, directed by Kevin S. Bright

I’m not sure this one is even worth discussing as it seems pointless to have to defend this selection.   It’s the best.

Sure, the Phoebe embryo story line is sweet, but obviously, I’m here for the trivia contest.  (though in my rewatch I found myself asking – the whole thing takes places in the same afternoon that they lose the apartment – where did they get all those boxes so quickly?

Who cares, let’s abandon logic and just be amused!)

#1 – Season 6, Episode 9  “The One where Ross Got High”  written by Gregory S. Malins, directed by Kevin S. Bright

So, my top 3 are nearly interchangeable depending on the day.
I love all the Thanksgiving episodes, but this one transcends the holiday.  Has anyone since this aired every eaten a trifle or a shepherd’s pie the same way?  I certainly have not.

And (keeping in theme), my favorite scene is when they’re all yelling out secrets and poor Judy has to respond to everyone.  I could watch it over and over (and I do, a few times a year).

If I were an Emmy voter - 2016

Happy Monday.  Emmy week is here!!  A celebration of television (that's all weeks in my house). 

I make this list in my head every year, and every once in awhile I write it down.  We're one week out, and here are my votes.  On the night of, I invite you to come share in the sarcastic, humorous commentary either live at my house, or via my Twitter feed.  

I've only noted the major categories or the ones for which I have a particular passion.   I also didn’t get into mini-series, movie, or reality here, but mostly b/c of space and I figured you were sick of me by the time we got that far down.  I’ll let you know on Sunday.

OUTSTANDING DRAMA (2015 winner: Game of Thrones)

The Americans

Better Call Saul

Downton Abbey

Game of Thrones

Homeland

House of Cards

Mr Robot

I gotta go The Americans on this one.  They've been shut out for so long and had an outstanding year.  Even though I don't watch all of these, based on what I know, I wouldn't be super angry at any of the wins (though I'd be more pleased with some than others)

LEAD ACTOR IN A DRAMA (2015 winner: Jon Hamm)

Kyle Chandler, Bloodline

Rami Malek, Mr Robot

Bob Odenkirk, Better Call Saul

Matthew Rhys, The Americans

Liev Schreiber, Ray Donovan

Kevin Spacey, House of Cards

Look, these are all good actors, and if we can't give it to Jon Hamm again, give it to my favorite Welshman, Matthew Rhys.  Dude is spectacular. 

LEAD ACTRESS IN A DRAMA (2015 winner: Viola Davis)

Claire Danes, Homeland

Viola Davis, How to Get Away With Murder

Taraji P Henson, Empire

Tatiana Maslany, Orphan Black

Keri Russell, The Americans

Robin Wright, House of Cards

I think by now I’ve developed a pattern that you can figure out.  KERI RUSSELL KERI RUSSELL KERI RUSSELL.  If it can’t be her (AND WHY GOD NOT?!), then give it to Claire Danes, if for nothing else than that cry.  

GUEST ACTRESS IN A DRAMA (2015 winner: Margo Martindale, The Americans)

Laurie Metcalf, Horace and Pete

Molly Parker, House of Cards

Ellen Burstyn, House of Cards

Allison Janney, Masters of Sex

Margo Martindale, The Americans

Carrie Preston, The Good Wife

Skipping supporting roles in drama, b/c I have little opinion (it’s mostly GOT which I don’t watch, so whatever).  But for this guest actress role, I gotta say: If there was a tie and Margo Martindale & Carrie Preston both won I’d be just thrilled.  

OUTSTANDING COMEDY (2015 winner: Veep)

black-ish

Master of None

Modern Family

Silicon Valley

Transparent

Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt

Veep

Veep is a strong contender, but what I’d really like to see is Unbreakable.  These are all good shows, but Kimmy is a cut above.    (If I’m wishing for things though, I’d trade a few of these in for other options)

LEAD ACTRESS IN A COMEDY (2015 winner: Julia Louis-Dreyfus)

Ellie Kemper, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt

Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Veep

Laurie Metcalfe, Getting On

Tracee Ellis Ross, black-ish

Amy Schumer, Inside Amy Schumer

Lily Tomlin, Grace and Frankie

How do I pick one of these ladies?  Ellie Kemper if I must.  But ANY would be deserving!  #FemalesAreStrongAsHell 

LEAD ACTOR IN A COMEDY (2015 winner: Jeffrey Tambor)

Anthony Anderson, black-ish

Aziz Ansari, Masters of None

Will Forte, The Last Man on Earth

William H Macy, Shameless

Thomas Middleditch, Silicon Valley

Jeffrey Tambor, Transparent

I literally have no opinion on this one.  The only show on here I’ve watched is Master, which is great, but I don’t have enough data to vote.  If I were voting based solely on what I've watched, Aziz wins by default. (he was great, so we'll let him have it.)

SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A COMEDY (2015 winner: Allison Janney)

Niecy Nash, Getting On

Kate McKinnon, SNL

Gaby Hoffmann, Transparent

Allison Janney, Mom

Judith Light, Transparent

Anna Chlumsky, Veep

Again – all hilariously amazing ladies… but Allison Janney is my hero so let’s see her win again.

SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A COMEDY (2015 winner: Tony Hale)

Louie Anderson, Baskets

Andre Braugher, Brooklyn Nine-Nine

Keegan-Michael Key, Key & Peele

Ty Burrell, Modern Family

Tituss Burgess, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt

Tony Hale, Veep

Matt Walsh, Veep

While I had no opinion on the lead actors, I’d like ALL of these dudes to win this.  They are All. So. Good. So, ummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm…. Andre Braugher.  But anyone (well, maybe not Louie Anderson, he’s not my fave. But I didn’t watch Baskets so I can’t really say). 

So, join us on the 18th where we will raise a glass, enjoy some snacks, and fill the evening with sarcastic commentary.  One of my favorite days.  See you on Sunday!!! 

What's Becki Watching - Fall 2016 Edition (Part 2)

Yesterday I shared about the returning fall shows I'm most excited about.  Today - new shows.

So, here's the deal.  There aren't a ton I've done a lot of research about and I truly haven't heard much buzz.  My standard MO the last few years has been to read a lot of reviews in the first month that things are out, and if 3 or 4 weeks in they're still positive or someone tells me I MUST WATCH, I consider catching up.  Or, I randomly stumble upon something.  Here are the things I'm going to give a try right from the start, but if you hear or see something that is good - please! let me know!!

And, as always, thanks to tvline.com for the best calendar of the year!!

TV LINE FALL PREVIEW

So, while I'm unsure of what I'll actually end up watching or sticking with, these are a few that have caught my eye.

This is Us (NBC 9/20)
   First of all - Milo Ventimiglia (Jess from Gilmore Girls).  I mean, come on.  When this trailer released months ago it practically broke the internet, and I was interested from the get-go.  The writer/creator is the same guy who wrote Crazy, Stupid, Love, which is the best.  Watch the trailer.  I'm hopeful this will fill the Parenthood shaped hole in my heart.


The Good Place (NBC 9/22)
   I think the premise of this sounds a bit lame, but Kristin Bell!  Plus, it comes to us from Michael Schur (writer - the office, creator/writer Parks & Rec, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Master of None).  I trust that dude.


The Great Indoors  (CBS 10/27)
  I hope this is good, the deck is stacked with a few of my favorite things:  Joel McHale, Outdoorsy people turned indoorsy people, millennials jokes, office humor.  Please don't let me down!


Man with a Plan (CBS 10/24)
   I'm not particularly interested in the premise, and even less so since they dumped Jenna Fischer, but I might give it a try.  Because, well, Joey.


Queen Sugar (OWN - already started)
   So, this already started and I missed it, but have read some great reviews.  If Oprah gives me a way to catch up I'm certainly considering it (though haven't started researching my options yet)


Better Things (FX - already started)
   This also premiered this week, and wasn't even on my radar til I heard Pamela Adlon (writer, actor, you know her from King of the Hill or Louie) on Fresh Air this week.  (she did some writing for Louie, he's writing for this as well).  Since hearing her earlier this week I've seen some positive reviews popping up, and I have a general appreciation for FX comedy (hello, You're the Worst), so might give it a try.


Younger (TV Land)
   This is entering its 3rd season, but I never saw the first 2.  I hear it's good and love all the people in it.... so if I can find a way to watch it I might be picking this up as well.


I'll be honest, there isn't much I'm freaking out about for this year... but I hope that some good buzz changes my mind.  OR, I could pick up nothing new, and just keep rewatching old classics.

Anybody have anything they're excited about??

What's Becki Watching - Fall 2016 Edition (part 1)

Welp, here I am, back from the void.  Nothing moves me to break out a blog post quite like the return of fall tv.  I have a few more things in the works here too, we'll see if they come to fruition. 

Because some of you asked (not many, but still), and because I am nerd and I find this fun.... I bring you the brief synopsis of what's premiering, currently airing, what I'm watching, and what I've decided to ignore.
Part 1 is returners.  Part 2 will be new shows.

Shows Coming Back I'm Still Watching (and why):
   *listed by order of air date

1. The Big Bang Theory 
       say what you want about Chuck Lorre & laugh tracks, but this show makes me laugh, the characters are all uniquely hilarious, and I like Star Trek and science jokes.


2.  Brooklyn Nine-Nine 
        I was admittedly skeptical about this when it first aired (I always found Andy Samberg funny yet fairly one-dimensional on SNL), but after it won the Golden Globe and then my sage friend Tim told me to watch it, I gave it a try.  It's hilarious.  I re-watched the whole thing again this past spring (and another singular episode 2 nights ago when I just needed a laugh).  It was funny from the start, but as these actors have reached their groove of their characters I think it's even funnier. (I also hate when an actor is pregnant & a show tries to hide it, but they actually pulled it off fairly well this year.  Kudos there).  This is one that I'm most excited about it's return.

3. New Girl
        It's had its ups and downs but I'm still watching.  I'm certainly part Jess (awkward?  bell choir? in love with the totally dysfunctional guy?), and I cannot get enough Jake and Schmidt.  


4. Modern Family
       This is one I'm less excited about than I used to be, and I often let it pile up on my dvr, but then once I start watching again I inevitably am LOLing alone in my house like a crazy person. 



5.  Impastor
        A TV Land show starting Michael Rosenbaum (Lex from Smallville) that you probably aren't watching.  The premise is ridiculous, but the show is HILARIOUS.  Give it a try, you won't regret it.


6.  Jane the Virgin
       This is new to me this year - watched S 1&2 over the summer after reading much praise and receiving many recommendations.  I was skeptical for a full 2 years, but now I'm hooked.  WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN?!?!?!  SO MUCH IS UP IN THE AIR!!!!  AHHHHH

7.  Crazy Ex-Girlfriend
       Another new (to me).  Meant to watch last year but waited too long and couldn't get the first few eps.  PTL for netflix.  THIS SHOW IS THE BEST.  It is smart, funny, sarcastic, AND A MUSICAL!  I bought the soundtrack, I listen to it in my car, I CANNOT GET ENOUGH.  Here is a sample song from the first ep.  Seriously - watch it.


8.  Life in Pieces
      Favorite new show from last year.  4 short scenes each ep connecting a family.  I was doubtful that this gimmick would work, but because they don't need filler to stretch out a storyline it's just punchline after punchline. All the actors are great, and it's just 30 minutes of delightful silliness (with some heart thrown in there too).  

9.  Mom
     This isn't my favorite, but Allison Janney is a riot and I love her in this.  I honestly enjoy this more when it's focused more on the serious issues of addiction than when it's just trying to be funny.  But eh, I'll keep watching for now.

10.  The Mindy Project (Hulu) 

     If I had to use television characters to explain who I am,  I's say (mostly) Liz Lemon and small parts Jessica Day (New Girl) and Mindy Lahiri.  She's such a ridiculous hot mess, but I still claim her as my own.  Add in some EXCELLENT supporting characters - they never fail to make me laugh.  They say all the things we're all saying in our heads already. 


What did I miss?  What should I quit?   There are also some things coming back after the new year or that already aired this summer that I have omitted here.  Ask me about them later :)

PS:  It's fascinating to me that all of these shows are more or less comedies, and the only hour-long ones are on the CW.  I've lost all of my serious/heavy shows.  What's that about?  Are there any on right now I should be watching?  (at least there's always streaming for that....)  

If I were an Emmy voter

The fresh new year is here.  Not back to school, but back to tv.  My favorite time.  As the Emmys are almost here, I got to thinking about who I might have nominated if I had a vote.  No mind that I'm not considering this based on what was actually submitted, but just my favorite performances and shows from the past year.  The only qualification?  Something I watch.

Some categories only got 4 nominees.  It's all I could come up with.  Additional items of note:  

• A few categories I would have added additional nominees (Outstanding Supporting Actor in both Drama and Comedy)  
• Some categories/nominees I don't necessarily agree with, but I went with what the Academy had already categorized. 
• Turns out I don't watch too many dramas.  At least not many that I consider award-worthy. 
• Stay tuned for my choices for win based on actual nominees. 

What would you pick? 

*actual nominee

my choice for win

Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series - 2014

Julianna Margulies* - The Good Wife

Robin Wright* - House of Cards

Keri Russell - The Americans

Kerry Washington* - Scandal (nominated mainly for her delivery of "What did you do?!"

Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series - 2014

Bryan Cranston* - Breaking Bad

Kevin Spacey* - House of Cards

Matthew Rhys - The Americans 

Tony Goldwyn - Scandal

Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Drama Series - 2014 

Christine Baranski* - The Good Wife 

Monica Potter - Parenthood

Lauren Graham - Parenthood

Annet Mahendru - The Americans 

Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series - 2014 (I'm awarding a tie)

Aaron Paul* - Breaking Bad 

Josh Charles* - The Good Wife

Peter Krause - Parenthood

Michael Kelly - House of Cards

Jeff Perry - Scandal 

Outstanding Drama Series - 2014

The Good Wife

Breaking Bad*

Parenthood 

The Americans 

House of Cards*

Outstanding Lead Actress In A Comedy Series - 2014

Taylor Schilling* - Orange is the New Black (still not sure this is a comedy, but I'll allow it)

Amy Poehler* - Parks and Recreation

Julia Louis-Dreyfus* - Veep

Mindy Kaling - The Mindy Project

Outstanding Lead Actor In A Comedy Series - 2014

Jim Parsons* - The Big Bang Theory 

Chris Messina - The Mindy Project

Andy Samberg - Brooklyn Nine-Nine

Bradley Whitford - Trophy Wife 

Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Comedy Series - 2014 

Mayim Bialik* - The Big Bang Theory

Julie Bowen* - Modern Family 

Margo Martindale - The Millers

Retta - Parks and Recreation 

Malin Ackerman - Trophy Wife

Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Comedy Series - 2014 

Ty Burrell* - Modern Family

Tony Hale* - Veep

Ike Barinholtz - The Mindy Project 

Reid Scott - Veep 

Nick Offerman - Parks and Recreation 

Outstanding Comedy Series - 2014

The Big Bang Theory*

Veep*

Parks and Recreation 

The Mindy Project 

Brooklyn Nine-Nine 

Update on my life and my stuff

Here is an update on the 3 things that are most important to me right now:

Housing:
I found out on Monday that I will not be getting the house I've been waiting on for 6 months (and 3 days).  This is okay, I knew that was a possibility.  I've spent the last couple days thinking about what it is that I want to do next.  I obviously need to do something, I cannot live indefintely in my parents' house with no access to any of my personal belongings.  I'm going to look a few new houses this weekend and see if any of them seem like the right fit.  I'm also considering going back to renting.  We'll see.

Stuff:
I continue to miss my things.  While this sometimes makes me feel selfish and materialistic, it also reassures me that I actually need some of the things I own.  It's not all total excess.  I didn't want to have to do this, but in the last week I've had to make a few purchases to replace things that I already own, but that I cannot get.  While the list is small, I know that it will grow if I don't get my things back.  So far this week I bought: A new PSU Jersey (a boys large: $14), and a hat/scarf/glove combo.  I came very close to buying a down vest.  I think that is one of the things that I will miss the most in the fall season. 

TV:
Last week I re-arranged my bedroom to accomodate a larger than 12" television.  I also ordered a dvr.  It came on Monday JUST in time for the new TV season.  (after 10 days... c*mcast managed to not send it after my original order, though they did immediately charge my account).  I spent about 1.5 hours setting it up on Monday night, on and off the phone/live chat with our cable friends.  After all of this the remote they sent wouldn't work.  So last night I drove to their office.  Turns out they had mailed one that was not compatible with the dvr they sent.  Super.  When I got home last night and was finally able to program my dvr with my new remote, I discovered that I'm missing about 20 channels.  That will be tonight's phone call.  Gotta love it.
After all of that, though, I can say I'm pumped for new television.  Thus far I have watched the season openers of Parenthood, HIMYM, and 2 1/2 Men (I was curious about Ashton!).  Looking forward to the rest of the week's worth thatmy dvr will have in store.

Oh My Gosh

So, I haven't written since April. Disgusting. Here is what has happened since then:

Made an offer on a short sale in March. Still waiting on it.
Had to be out of rental end of June.
June 26 put everything I own minus 2 suitcases of clothes and 10 pairs of shoes in a POD.
Spent a total of 5 weeks since then housesitting in various locations.
In between housesitting adventures stay at my parents' house in my childhood bedroom.
Wearing nearly the same combination of clothes every week because most of them are in storage.
Starting to panic because I only saved 1 winter coat, no hats or scarves, no dress boots, no sweaters, and fall weather is approaching.
Daily thinking of something I need, and realizing that it's in the POD warehouse 40 miles away.

I spent most of June working out or packing, got pretty in shape. Then spent most of July and August either traveling, dog walking, or sitting in my bedroom like a high school student. Got pretty out of shape.

Been working on Seinfeld: the complete series. Almost done with season 4. Man I love that show.

Read a few books.

That's my summer. Gearing up for fall tv return. Maybe I'll write more....

Premiere Week is here!

I think that I blog about television more than any other topic. Which might be a little sad, but I don’t care.

My relationship with television is a complicated one. I really love it, and take pretty seriously what I watch. If I watch a show, I have to see ALL the episodes. I was in to this before there were things like DVR or seasons on DVD. I recorded stuff on my vcr obsessively, I still have tapes upon tapes of all of the episodes of Friends, that I saved to rewatch. I was ahead of my time. (of course, now I’m behind, because even though I bought all 10 seasons of Friends on DVD when they came out, I still have boxes of VHS tapes that I can’t part with…)

So, of course, when you love tv as much as I do, you’re very excited for premiere week. As I always do, in late August/early September I search online for the most helpful calendar of when shows come back and in what time slots, I print it out, and I highlight the ones I want to watch, paying close attention to moved time slots and new conflicts. This year, like last year, I have only 1 recording conflict (3 shows in the same slot, the dvr can’t handle that), so I prioritize and plan to watch something online. Simple enough.

Last weekend I sat down with my calendar and I programmed my dvr to record the whole season of all my shows. I had to do this because on Aug. 30 comc*st wiped all the dvrs clean for some kind of reprogramming (to what I think is a much less user-friendly platform). I did these on in non-HD b/c I didn’t want to overwhelm my dvr with too much space, because at the end of last year when I upgraded to HD it seemed to go too fast.

Well, Monday night my first shows recorded. I had 1 hr of previous HD programming, and 2 ½ hrs of non-HD programming on the box, and when I checked it told me it was 40% full!! WTF?!?! At that rate my dvr would be full by Tuesday!! So, I looked up online and it tells me that the dvr should hold 60 hours of HD programming. Not 3. So, last night I got on the phone with comc*st and they reprogrammed my dvr to bring back its memory. Whatever. What that means is they wiped the thing clean. AGAIN. Now, the only thing I hadn’t watched on there was DWTS, which I can see online, but now I have to reprogram it all again!!!!! I set it last night for HD recording of only Tuesday shows, and they all recorded, only using 11%. Much better. So I guess tonight I’ll buckle down with my calendar once again.

All this to say – isn’t having cable and a dvr supposed to make life easier? Less complicated? Less aggravating??? Although I do appreciate that I no longer am trying to switch out and label like 5 tapes a week.

I realize that there are bigger issues in the world than my dvr… but vent I must. Can’t wait to catch up on all the premieres!!

Obligations

I haven't written here in quite awhile. Just haven't felt inspired I guess. It's not that writing a few thoughts down is that hard- but it is hard to come up with what to write about- especially when I find that a lot of my blogging friends are posting photos of their babies. And I don't have babies.

But today I have been thinking about obligations. Not those put on by someone else, but the kind of obligations that we create for ourselves. It's ridiculous. I think some of it is the bit of obsessive compulsiveness that I have- I create obligations for myself that are truly unnecessary. Like what? you might ask. Well, I seem to have created this personality where I can't do something part way (well, that's not true- I can totally dust part way. and I really only exercise part way). But things that I'm supposed to be enjoying.

For example- yesterday I spent some time watching a tv show on dvd that I borrowed from a friend. You see- I started watching this year during the fourth season- and I can't stand that there are all those episodes out there that I haven't seen. So I'm watching them. And while I am enjoying them, it's taking a lot of time- and I feel like now that I've started I HAVE to finish.

I feel that way with other tv shows too. Even if a series dwindles to the point that I'm not really enjoying it- I can't quit. I have to see it through to the end. And I have a hard time watching anything on tv when I'm not caught up on my dvr. DVR is NOT supposed to be an obligation- but I seem to have turned it in to one.

All this occurred to me this afternoon as I was trying to decide what to do. I got home from church at 10:30, and spent the next few hours putting my Christmas decorations away (which creates what I consider to be one of the most depressing days of the year). When I finished it was late afternoon, I was tired, my laundry was done, and my dvr was empty (except of course, for the things I'm saving- like Neil Diamond or the Sing Off). So, I thought I'd get to work on my magazines.

I currently subscribe to 2 magazines. I used to get three, but finally cut one out. I can NEVER stay caught up on them. Right now I have Oct-Jan of 2 magazines (which = 8) sitting here in a stack waiting for me to read them. And I CANNOT get rid of them without reading them. Too wasteful. So, I have again turned what is supposed to be a fun leisurely activity into what almost seems to be a chore- finishing these things. (Ideally before the February ones arrive next week).

Does anyone else have this problem? Are there things that you intend to be recreational but turn in to what feel like obligations? Or is it just me?? Just wondering.... back to my reading!

TV Update

As I've mentioned before, I like to watch TV. Now, I used to be the kind of person that would just plop down and watch whatever I could find. I'm trying to be better about that. I think that it's important for us to be intentional with our time- all the time. For example, the other night I came home and was doing some stuff in my room. It was quiet. I turned on the tv and was just flipping around (which I have to do literally on the tv b/c the channel up/down button doesn't work on my remote). But then I thought to myself- this is stupid- there isn't anything I want to watch, and I don't need the TV on just for the sake of having it on. So I turned it off. But- that doesn't mean I don't watch TV- I'm just trying not to watch random TV. But I do have my shows. And- now I have DVR- which makes my shows even more enjoyable.
I love having my shows- but I hate having to revolve my life around them. There's nothing that says "i'm a big loser" more than being out with friends for something social and saying "I gotta go- there's a TV show coming on..." So, I just tell my DVR to record the whole series, and there it is- ready for me at any moment. It's grand!!
I've also found- the more that I've been enjoying TV shows- the less that I'm enjoying movies. Sure- movies have their time and place for me- but there are just a few things about television that I've been enjoying even more. For example- most of the shows I watch are an hour- which is only 40 minutes of actual show time- which means they're over more quickly than a movie. and- movies seem to always leave me wanting more. I love the long story arcs that TV can do. Now, granted some of these story arcs get drug out more than they need to (can we say Derek and Meredith), but some of them (like "the pattern" on fringe) just leave you ready for the next installment. I love it.
But sometimes it is time to say goodbye. This year marks the final season for Boston Legal. Which is a great show. That David E Kelly- he writes some funny stuff... But I think that I am ready for it. First of all- to have one less show on my dvr plate- but also, the show has served us well during its tenure- and it's best to go out while you're still doing good stuff- rather than to run slowly into the ground. I look forward to the next 10 episodes to see what happens to ol' Denny Crane, Alan Shore, and co.

What's on TV?

I think early on in the life of this blog (you know, 4 months ago), I thought I might spend some of my blogging time focusing on TV and how it affects my life. Of course, that was in April or May, when all shows were winding down. But now, shows are firing up again! So far, only one of my returning shows is back: Prison Break. And that show continues to be smart, well written, and captivating. LOVE IT!!

Now, each year I swear that I won't pick up any new shows- but I have already been defeated.... After watching Prison Break the last two weeks, I'd been seeing lots of ads for the new show "Fringe," which is written and produced by J.J. Abrams. Now, anyone who knows me, knows that I am a sucker for anything that that man does. He is a genius. First Felicity (a totally different genre, but still an awesome show), which he followed up with Alias, and then LOST (which it took me til this year to get into- but I've now seen every episode- thanks writers' strike), and now "Fringe."

The premise is an ongoing investigation on "fringe science" which is stuff that is WAY WAY out there that only a few people and scientists even know about. I don't want to say anymore, except to say that if you like suspense, (not scary suspense though- I don't like the scary stuff), then this is definitely a show to give your attention to. It was smart, captivating, and just enough out there to leave me extremely curious to see where the story line will go. The premiere is running again Sunday night, and then the show airs on Tuesdays. I am serious- check it out!!! Plus- it has Joshua Jackson (aka Pacey from Dawson's Creek, which I didn't watch, so to me he is Charlie from the Mighty Duck Movies). Now, I have always loved Joshua Jackson, though have sometimes felt he always plays the same characters. This is a similar character to some things he's done before (arrogant, cocky, overly intellectual language), but he pulls it off. I like it.

Maybe I will give a report on each of my shows as they premiere. So, sit tight, more to come. (Next week: Smallville returns for season 8! and i KNOW you want to hear me talk about that)

Smart Television

I realize that I am starting to write a lot about things that I have been watching (compared to reading) which bums me out a little, but, though I'm not reading too much, I'm not watching too much either. Last night I managed to watch Boston Legal from last week, which I had taped (yes, I still tape. No DVR for me- I actually have a 2 VCR system going for those big nights). Anyway, all that said, I made the decision last night that I think Boston Legal might be the smartest show on television right now. Don't get me wrong- there is some other good television happening. A lot of it I'm probably not watching, as I leave room in my schedule for Desperate Housewives and Grey's Anatomy (let's be honest- they are not smart television), but I would argue that the writers of, say LOST, know what they're doing (again- JJ Abrams- I love you).

What makes BL so smart (that's Boston Legal, not Becki Laird)? Well, for starters, it's David E Kelly- who has been known for his quality TV. Last week, for instance, the show moved time slots. The entire opening teaser was the staff of CP&S discussing when their staff meeting was- Tuesdays at 10 or Wednesdays at 10. What other show doesn't hide the fact in their writing that they are a show. It's hilarious. The plot last week was very politically centered- debating over MA voting for Obama or Clinton, kind of displaying how ridiculous the candidates have gotten. I just don't know any other show that is willing to touch this stuff. Especially a drama. I mean, this isn't John Stewart, you know?

Long story short- I recommend taking in an episode- or even getting hooked. It's one downfall (if you can call this a downfall), is that it doesn't have that soap-opera-y drama that keeps you sucked in from one week to the next. I often have to make myself make time to watch it, as I'm not addicted to it like I am to the Housewives, but once I do watch it- it is always worth it. It's smart, hilariously funny (I laugh out loud every week, even as I watch by myself), and touching. The relationship stories (particularly the one of Denny and Alan- BFFs) are just so moving.

Smart television. check it out.

loving

One of the quotes on a recent episode of Felicity that I watched really stuck out to me. Sally was giving Felicity advice on her disastrous relationship with Ben, and how she had done something to him that made him so angry he didn't want to talk to her anymore, and she didn't know how to respond. Sally's advice was this:

"If equal affection cannot be, let the more loving one be me."

It wasn't until recently in my life that I really started to grasp what that meant. My natural reaction when there is not equal love in a relationship that I'm in, be it romantic or not, is not to be more loving, but to either be more spiteful (which is usually a game I am better at winning), or to shy away, let the other person be more loving while I just sit quietly and afraid. However, I am learning, through the wisdom of JJ Abrams (writer of Felicity), and the grace of God, that those are not the most appropriate reactions. The response should not be to spite back to someone to the best of my ability, but to love back.

It is often putting oneself out on a limb to be the one who is more loving. You can get hurt, you can feel lonely, you can feel frustrated that you're not getting back in return what you are giving out. But that is not what loving is. Loving is unconditional- whether you receive it back or not. This, of course, is mirrored in our relationship with Christ. What if he only loved us as much as we loved him back. We'd all be in trouble.

As I look at the broken relationships in my life, I can see that they are a result of me not being the more loving one. I pray that I can better learn how to do that.

dear sally,

Despite my somewhat busy lifestyle, I have recently taken to spending my time watching old TV shows on DVD. Since Christmas I am on my third series- Felicity. I watched seasons 1 & 2 many years ago, and have never seen 3 & 4. Thanks to the wonders of generous friends and Blockbuster online, I am taking this series on yet again.

Felicity follows the 4 year college career of a CA woman who follows a boy to college in NYC, and documents her life learning in the classroom, in the dorm, and with boys. Each episode opens with her recording a "letter" on a cassette tape and mailing it off, and ends with Sally (voiced by Janeane Garofalo) reading her letter back. I don't know if I wasn't paying attention the first time, but, even after only 6 episodes, I am impressed by the writing (oh, JJ Abrams- can you even make bad television?) and wisdom that is dished out in every episode. Sure, there are cheesy WB moments designed just for the 18 year old crowd, but as someone who loves college students (it's in my job description), I think that this show did some good things in its time.

I have felt moved and contemplative after nearly every ending, particularly by the closing words of Sally (who is an older friend who shares her life wisdom with young Felicity). It is thought provoking, and I look to share some of these thoughts in upcoming entries. I just wanted to take this opportunity to give a little background and share what might be ahead.

My friend Becky (and maybe the only reader of this blog) is blogging and sharing life through the narrative of food and cooking. I am choosing to use mediocre television. Stay tuned.... ooo- insert cheesy unintentional pun here...