I AM SPARTACUS!

Readers,

I am Spartacus! Oh dear, has there ever been a series so unique and phenomenal? 4 seasons of authentic, period based drama, action and comedy! This show really put us watchers in the Roman world we have no become so familiar so much so that instead of responding ‘Thanks’ to an offering, a part of you is thinking of saying ‘gratitude’!

The series finale was perhaps the best I’ve ever seen on television, very few rivalling its standard (Lost, 24)... and it was the perfect end to the legend of Spartacus as well as a tribute to the cast, the show, the battles, the blood and sand, and the gladiatorial arts! Many people struggled with this show, criticizing it for its excessive use of vulgar language, the gross amounts of blood portrayed as well as the ever present sex scenes. However, with a period drama, particularly one based in that era, it helped certify and authenticate the series as an accurate showcasing of the gladiatorial era. If you can look beyond that, you find a phenomenal story of a tortured soul that leads a fight for freedom and touches the life of so many. You can’t help but be moved by his plight, determination and will to do what is ultimately right!

It’s still quite early and therefore will refrain from giving too much away in the manner of detailed spoilers. However, some performances were extremely nuanced and deserve critical acclaim. As much as I loved Andy Whitfield as Spartacus, and mourn his unfortunate and untimely loss, Liam McIntyre has been phenomenal as Spartacus particularly in this final season, which was undoubtedly the best of the bunch! He really did become ‘Spartacus’ and was convincing in every scene! His performance was terrific and he did in fact embody the true leader that the legend beholds. Dustin Claire as Gannicus never disappointed, and I was happy to see him become the leader he was destined to be. A Big shout out has to go to Caesar and Crassus; as far as villains on television go, particularly with regard to Spartacus, they were most definitely the best. Of course, we all still remember how brilliant Batiatus was, however there was a manipulative and calculative quality that these characters had that was unmatched- so much so, a spinoff series that focuses on their lives would definitely be most welcome!

The Finale did bring an incredible feeling of nostalgia, as the faces of all the lives lost throughout the seasons of Spartacus were shown, and you couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed with sadness that the show had reached its end. God Knows we’ll miss Mira, Varro, Onaemus, Ashur-The Bastard that he was, Lucretia, Ilithya, Batiatus, Gaia, The Wife of Onaemus whose name escapes me.. and ofcourse all those who survived till the final season and as expected, and like the legend told met their end!!

The Finale is definitely a 10/10, and the Series a strong 9/10! Absolutely phenomenal

G.O.T: Television Doesn't get Better!

Fellow readers,

Back again to give my two sense on the finest television has to offer, and man am I glad that Game of Thrones is back on the small screen. I think the 10 months of waiting for a new season is perhaps one of  the most painful and cruel things, we as fans are subjected to. In fact, I think the only thing that was more cruel was the APRIL FOOLS JOKE that Dinklage was going to be replaced as Tyrion!! FYI George R R Martin, HBO and Dinklage-- That was NOT FUNNY, JUST PLAIN CRUEL!

Anyway, Its back and that is what matters!! 2 episodes in, both of which felt like premieres due to the abundance of characters being introduced into the series and the inability to fit all their stories in one hour of storytelling- I'm very pleased with what we have so far. A lot of watchers of this series hope that every episode will be like 'Blackwater' or 'Baelor', and despite those being simply outstanding episodes, I am very much a fan of the episodes where the story proceeds without anything extravagant happening but we are still privy to remarkable character and story evolution, as well as phenomenal dialogue and wit which this show has become famous for.

As a reader of the books, I have noticed as we go into the later seasons (where the books are significantly longer), quite a bit is being left out in the story; however HBO, Beinoff and Weiss as well as R.R. Martin have done a remarkable job of transforming what they have selected and adapting it for television. I have even come across some opinion posts who think the story is better in the television as it weeds out some irrelevant literature, however I do not share that opinion. In fact, it would be my advice to anyone who watches this series- GET THE BOOKS. They are INCREDIBLE!!

Of course I am not going to divulge any details from the episodes, or give spoilers. This is not so much a review post, but a post welcoming back the series to the small screen. I really believe that this series could benefit from lengthening the episodes to 1hr30mins and having 15 episode seasons. HBO, David Beinoff, David Weiss- I HOPE YOU'RE LISTENING!! With all the characters, and diverse storylines that are being explored, at the end of each episode, there is always a feeling like you haven't gotten enough, particularly in comparison to the first 2 seasons.

That said, I think we are in for a treat! This in my opinion is still the BEST SERIES ON TELEVISION!!

Horror/Mystery- The New Comedy!!

Hey There Readers,

Seems like not too long ago, most of the creators of television shows were looking to make the best comedy!! Several were pitched, with some making it on the air, and very few surviving each year! However, it seemed to be the genre where every executive producer wanted to get there fingers in; much like how Cop procedurals were a really big deal in the 90s and early 2000s! Now it seems as though we are in a new era, that of the Horror/Mystery genre!! For some reason, I feel like much of it was precipitated by the success of shows like American Horror Story!! By the way, if you don’t watch it, you really should consider getting into it, it’s done really well!

Home on a Friday night and with nothing to watch and nowhere to go, I ventured to IGN to see what’s hot, as I typically do and see several posts and preview/review comments about a show called “THE BATES MOTEL”! Now the name seemed familiar. It would come as no surprise that many of you have heard of or watched the classic movie “PSYCHO”! The series is in fact based on the novel and theatre adaptation of that concept, and after watching the Pilot, I was quite impressed!!

Anyone who knows me knows that I loathe giving spoilers as I love everyone experiencing an episode without having any predetermined opinions. So I will not give any spoilers for this pilot, however I will say that everything about this pilot from the screenplay, to the directing, to the acting was done to near perfection and gave off this vibe that something was amiss throughout the episode. From the opening sequence to about 8minutes in, the relationship between Norman and Norma already revealed itself to be quite extra-ordinary!

As far as the plot goes, it does a fantastic job of building up to what the rest of the season is going to be about- opens up several avenues for exploration and gets you immediately interested not only in the future of the characters but also their past! I must say though, that is classic CARLTON CUSE (who is the executive producer of this show, and one of the executive producers and creators of the hit TV series LOST)... He just seems to have a knack of getting the right balance of intrigue and creepiness!

Having full awareness of how difficult it is to make an interesting pilot episode, I’ll rate this at 8/10!!

Give it a try- there’s something about this series!!

Fox lands a Whale!!

Hey Readers,

Don't you love it when television becomes consistent, and your favourite shows airs weekly rather than take arbitrary breaks for 2 or sometimes 3 weeks?! I have truly enjoyed my last few weeks of viewing. Most of my favourite shows have aired weekly, and only a couple or so have taken the odd break. At this point however, it is the point in the season where most shows are trying to set up their big finishes in order to land renewal and therefore not much will be happening in most shows; in fact, most are airing 'filler episodes'.

That said, its that time to get on the ball with mid-season shows. They are either at the end i.e. white collar and suits, and thus are at their big finish, making them much more exciting to watch, or they are just starting and therefore need to grab your attention, again making them much more interesting to watch. I'm dedicating this post to a brilliant new season on Fox called "THE FOLLOWING".

Now, Just to put it out there, I'm not a big fan of Fox Tv. Most of its comedies are stale, and drama is also not doing too well. In fact, until 'The Following', i think the only shows I watch on Fox are Touch and American Dad. They did air one of my greatest shows, 24 and Fringe, but are responsible for purging what could have been the greatest ever tv series in Firefly! So, its clear I have a very love-hate relationship with that network.

Anyway, The Following! I don't want to give too much, especially since its only in its 5th episode. However, It is so awesome. When I watched the trailer for the series last year, I got the impression it would be a serial killer series where the Feds are on the hunt of a psychopathic yet charasimatic serial killer on the loose. Well, I was wrong in a manner of speaking, and it evolved to be something much more exciting. The show is full of suspense and a certain darkness that makes every episode seem like an intense thriller movie that may just venture slightly into the horror genre. If you really want to know what the series is about, look to the title for some deeper insight, and get on that pilot asap!! Beyond that, i'm not adding anything. It is for your benefit, Trust me!

Lastly, The Acting is great, most characters do an awesome job. I mean, KEVIN BACON needs no introduction- he is a movie legend. Natalie Zea has been all over television i.e Dirty Sexy Money, Justified... and relatively newcomer Annie Parisse is very talented. I especially enjoyed her guest starring role on Person of Interest, which is one of my favourite shows currently on air. So trust me, your next series to try should be THE FOLLOWING!

Rating so far: 9/10

p.s: it may help to know or google who this man is for further insight-

Kevin Spacey never ceases to Amaze!!

Fellow Readers,

How Glad are we all that Kevin spacey has finally decided to grace the small screen with his presence?! This man is one of the most phenomenal actors in history, and his role in House of Cards only continues to vindicate how excellent he really is.

When I first heard about this series last year, I was very excited for 2 reasons. The first being that Kevin Spacey was the lead actor, and second that it was a political drama. As far as Political Dramas go, perhaps the most engaging prior to this was The West Wing which was actually quite entertaining and engaging in its own manner. Scandal falls short particularly with its particular brand of overacting and exaggerated drama. House of Cards is top notch political drama, utilizing very well the dark arts that plague the political world i.e. blackmail, dishonesty and ruthlessness. The plot is deeply entrenched into the American Political system and simply does not flap around in the shallow end. It offers insight into how the Congressional system works, and how party politics plays a role in overall American Leadership, and does so in an engaging and interesting manner.

I don't want to give too much away, especially because the series is so new, and several people may not have had a chance to watch the show yet. Look forward to brilliant acting. Kevin Spacey stands out ahead of all others in this show, and emerges as an Impressive Southern Politician from South Carolina whose ambitions lead him down a 'not so clean path' in order to achieve what he believes he is entitled to. He is calculating and convincing- I mean, even his accent sounds completely authentic, so much so that you are warped into his world and the players in it.

That said, the supporting cast is also phenomenal. His wife played by Robin Wright is excellent, and his perfect match. She is distant, yet caring; cold yet passionate. The characters closest to Spacey i.e Robin Wright and his chief of staff played by Michael Kelley(Person of Interest) are both portrayed exceptionally well. The saying "birds of a feather flock together" is definitely validated in this script. Kate Mara and Corey Stroll i.e Journalist and whipping boy, both played to perfection as well. It is truly hard to fault the casting in this show, and even if you were determined to do so, only the more minor characters would be mentioned.

Due to the beauty of the Netflix system where the entire series is released in one action, I finished the entire series in 2 days. I hardly took a break from the series as it was gripping throughout. Believe me when I tell you, watch it! There's so much I want to add, but I despise giving spoilers as much as I do receiving them, therefore JUST WATCH IT!

Rating: 8.8 out of 10

Previously on Fringe...

Readers, Sorry for the silence. With the December period usually so quiet and devoid of shows, I'm afraid there wasn't much to discuss, and I am now only just getting back to the groove and catching up with all my favourite shows, which I am sure I have mentioned in several of my previous posts...

Today, I'd like to dedicate this entry to one of the most brilliant shows that has ever aired on Television: FRINGE. In fact I cannot believe that the show is over and we'll never again here the words: "Previously on Fringe"...My, Oh My, what a roller coaster it has been. From strange scientific crime, to alternate universes to observers, and invaders.. this show explored pretty much every realm of science in one of the most captivating methods known to television and has been a delight to watch since the 2 hour pilot aired 5 years ago.

Any Television Enthusiast who has made the very unwise decision not to watch this show should seriously reconsider that position. Granted in the earlier seasons, I wasn't very convinced by the lead actress' performance i.e that of Anna Torv as Olivia Dunham, but with every season she got better especially in the latter stages of season 2. That said, the show was carried for most of the early seasons by Peter and Walter Bishop, who are both extremely talented actors in their own right, and it'll be interesting to see what projects they undertake after Fringe.

In fact, If I may add, I believe it is one of the biggest travesty's of justice that John noble a.k.a Walter Bishop has been overlooked for an Emmy Award, or even a nomination. He is undoubtedly one of the most brilliant and convincing actors on any show I have endeavoured to watch, and believe me when I say, that he's acting alone is enough for you to get into the show; much like that of Robert Carlisle in Once Upon a Time.

The Fringe Finale was absolute class, and in my opinion was classic J.J Abrams. In fact in some ways, it gives validation to the LOST ending a few years back. Shows shrouded in scientific mystery, inevitably prove to be about the people, the characters, humanity.. always, and if done right like both this brilliant shows, it makes for spectacular television. The Fringe Finale was epic, emotional, brilliant as in re-introduced some characters from prior seasons and tied the entire thing together. Some were skeptical about this invader plot-line, but from the start I have always been impressed with what they came up with, and with every episode, the storyline became more gripping. The Hero and the Villain; the classic dynamic for any story nearing its end.. What a Show..

I would have given detail into the plot and the final episode of the season, however I'd encourage all to watch it and enjoy it.. and If you're just starting the series, well you're in for a treat!!

RATING: 9/10

Several Shows Take Time to Blossom...

Namaste Peoples,

I trust you have all been keeping up with your weekly dose of television. Last night whilst watching the latest episode of Hawaii Five-O, a few thoughts nested in mind that I thought I would share with you. Take a look back at some of the shows you've watched over the years, and picture how many of them came into their stride after several episodes or a few seasons. I'm guessing you're not surprised that the answer is most, and if not most, then at the very least a lot of them!! Now with that in mind, I am appalled at the current level of leeway extended to drama shows at the moment. Hollywood is too concerned with the "bottom line" and thus is leaving us with only garbage to watch. Don't get me wrong, there is lots of good TV out there, especially on cable, however network television need to look at long-term gains, and actually give shows a chance because statistically most shows tend to blossom in later seasons, as they learn from their errors, get fan feedback etc. If they are cancelled in such a rash manner, then there will never be hope for any decent show on Network TV.

What is he talking about, you may ask?! I am now in particular ranting or voicing my rage with regards to the news I heard last week, that ABC will not be ordering more than the 13 episodes of "LAST RESORT". This in effect renders the show cancelled, which in my opinion is not just a crying shame, but a DISGRACE. I'm not sure how many people have endeavored to attempt this new show, but OMG, It is so Damn Awesome!!! Sure, it may be a little exaggerated with regard to certain aspects e.g "the nuke blast" in the pilot episode, but if TV were just as realistic as real-life it would damn sure be boring. How many things that happened in 24 were a bit exaggerated or overstated?? (that did not stop the show from being fantastic, in fact it heightened the pleasure and stakes making it more exciting to watch), and If I may add, the best seasons of 24 were season 4 and season 5... which goes to show that to get the best of the best sometimes, one must give a show time to breathe and find its way. I have full confidence in the LAST RESORT, and in comparison to most shows, especially the new ones, the plot and acting is absolutely superb!!  Someone needs to start a "SAVE THE LAST RESORT PETITION", and I'll definitely sign and spread the word (I should consider doing that).. but seriously, is there room for good shows on network TV any more.

Forget about past greats like 24, and lets look at the shows currently on air. As I mentioned, this thought came to me after the latest episode of Hawaii Five-O. I was never really into Hawaii Five-O too much, I mean in the first couple of seasons I thought it was decent and it certainly passed the time, however, I never looked forward to it like I did a show like Dexter or Fringe. But this third season has been phenomenal. The procedural story-lines and the overarching plot have been very interesting,and I'm getting more and more impressed with the show.

Even when we look to the comedy front, shows like Parks and Rec, and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, two of the funniest shows still airing didn't really get into the groove until their second season.. now imagine if they had been cancelled after their first season due to a lack of numbers, or the fact that they weren't that good!! Even Scrubs, the best seasons were season 2 to 5...

In reality(not the genre), very few shows have their first seasons as their best, or are simply outstanding from the get-go. In fact, the outstanding shows from the get-go(as in from the pilot) I can think of at the moment are LOST, Game of Thrones, Dexter, Boston Legal, Suits... and very few others!! Most shows that have their first season as their best, and end up going on and on, usually wither into nothingness; Case and Point: "Prison Break and Heroes". Therefore, why the hell can't ABC just give "LAST RESORT and perhaps even 666 PARK AVENUE" a chance!! By the way, I should make it clear that some shows are just crap from the get-go and should never be given the time of day, I mean seriously... Look at "The Playboy club and Charlies Angels remake" from Fall 2011.. Those shows were axed in a second, and boy they deserved it... but don't mistake poor ratings for a poor show Executives, just don't!!

All in all, it seems like more and more, Conspiracy television has no hope, or at least no hope on Network TV. In the last couple of years, shows that weren't too great, or not even that good, that had potential to become great like The Event, Rubicon, Traveler  FlashForward, Dirty Sexy Money.. all were axed perhaps a little too soon, and now it looks like LAST RESORT will join this list as the latest casualty in Conspiracy Television. What a shame!! Since it is not as easy to revive such shows like it is with animations, i.e Family guy and Futurama ( as the actors only do voices), all we can do is mourn. Thank The Heavens that they managed to revive Arrested Development though, albeit for one season, but still.

 To conclude, I think it is apt to provide a small list of my favourite shows(not including the Conspiracy ones named above) that were the victim of greed in Hollywood.. Oh How I wish these shows continued:

FIREFLY (By far on the Greatest shows ever made, Everyone should Watch it)
ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT
STUDIO 60 ON THE SUNSET STRIP
BETTER OFF TED
ELI STONE
HARRY's LAW (The second season was actually really good, compared to the first)
HOW TO MAKE IT AMERICA
DARK BLUE
SHARK
INVASION (This was so awesome)

and a few others I cannot remember at this time...