"And now that I have your attention, I'll begin..."
Since we're all prisoners of current events, we have time on our hands. I'm sure folks have found 'bingeworthy pursuits,' as have I.
I start this thread as a nexus for our recent indulgences. Please consider earning bonus points by Spending a paragraph or 3 describing why you love your new thang.
Wiki won't help you very much with this one. You'll just have to trust me. This thing is an escapist's rabbit hole of choice. It's just slightly off-center, but with enough real-world references to keep the viewer centered on the people in the story. How they react to the world around them is the actual point of the story. Each of us is depicted in some way, by all the major characters in this little play. You can find it at AMC.
Dawgs in PP threads talk all the time about alternate facts/realities... this little gem is an exploration of just that.
Imagine this little scene: you stop at a crosswalk, waiting for the light to change. You see a tear-tab flyer stapled to the lightpole next to you. The flyer compels you to tear off a tab with the contact info... and you actually take that next step.
I can't speak for anyone else, but I can say this with true conviction: This project is totally worth your deep dive. So imaginative. So insightful. A 'sniper's nest' POV... trained upon us all.
This show is a rabbit hole that will suck you away from Today. I highly recommend it.
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What is your binge? Why is it your binge? Why should we adopt it as our binge?
I don't know about binge-able... but The Expanse on Amazon Prime is alright. I was told it was a similar story to my favorite video game, but I'm not really feeling it. That said, I'm far enough in that I'm invested, so I'll see it through.
The acting is VERY hit-or-miss. Some of the characters make me physically cringe. Others are very good, if confusing.
Reading my little review, I don't expect anyone to get excited for this show. If you like Sci-Fi, check it out. You should know if you'll like it w/in the first half-season.
Also, if you're a Star Wars nerd, then you've probably already seen most if not all of Clone Wars (animated series). I started that now that I have Disney+, and I gotta say it's pretty good.
I watched what was the final season of The Expanse on cable. It was alright, but not anything that made me want to buy an Amazon membership in order to see the rest.
I binged "Picard" on CBS's app. It started out kind of slow ..... but picked up nicely ..... only to end with a "meh" moment. I'm a Star Trek geek, though, so I mostly enjoyed it.
I have tried to watch Discovery ..... but have only made it through 5 or 6 episodes .... and stalled.
I hate prequels, especially of Star Trek ..... because all of a sudden the technology is way ahead of the original series. (and maybe even TNG) I was willing to give it a chance, and I may give season 2 a chance, since it is supposed to be a lot better .... but the 1st half or so of season 1 has really been a turnoff.
I also hate that Klingons don't look like Klingons ..... and that there are so many new races of aliens serving in Star Trek, who were nowhere to be seen in TOS. These things could be acceptable, and explainable, in a series set to follow TNG .... but not in a prequel series.
I did watch that Clem but I wasn't as impressed by it as you seem to be.
My wife and I did watch a series that was somewhat quirky though that we did enjoy. Briarpatch. A ten episode series with Rosario Dawson in the lead role. It was televised on USA Network. I'm sure it's probably streaming somewhere.
The characters are different and certainly stand out. It's a small town Texas story that has a lot of twist and turns. Sort of a crime/suspense story with a some quirky and comical twists.
If you have Amazon Prime, I really recommend "Bosch". Its based on a series of police procedural novels by Michael Connelly who, IMO, does that genre of fiction better than anyone else. Detective Hieronymus "Harry" Bosch is one tres formidable adversary for bad guys on either side of the law.
I also re-watched The Sopranos. Loved the series, hated the ending this time just as much as the first time I watched it. Finished watching Dexter, and I mostly liked it, but was a little squeamish at the snuff porn aspect that seemed to permeate it. Started watching Weeds and liked it to start, but got tired of it after Season 1 (the brother-in-law character annoyed me.). Speaking of AMC, a couple shows I've only seen parts of, but plan to follow up on are Killing Eve and Better Call Saul.
I’m a couple of episodes behind in Dispatches. Still not sure what to think of it.
Binged Picard season 1. Enjoyed it but didn’t find it compelling. Watched into season 2 of Discovery. Lost steam. I was never a huge Trek fan. I’ve enjoyed the movies over the years and watched most episodes of TNG when it was on tv originally. Never watched much of the other series like Deep Space 9 and whatnot.
Just got done with The Mandelorian. Really enjoyed it. A fun dive into the Star Wars universe.
When it first came out we binged The Dark Crystal:Age of Resistance. I grew up with Henson as an artistic hero so the original movie from the 80’s was already part of my soul. The series was far beyond my expectations though. Even my girlfriend was taken back. She had originally tried watching the movie with me but fell asleep trying... twice. From the first episode of the Age of Resistance series she was in. She even went back and watched the movie and had a completely different outlook on it. Highly recommend the series to those that haven’t looked into it. Once you adjust, the puppet aspect falls away. It’s a well told story that’s in a really beautifully hand crafted world. The details in set designs and costuming alone are incredibly impressive. Practical effects are alive and well. It’s visual proof that not everything has to be done via computer generated special effects.
Lastly, What We Do in the Shadows. Hilarious. Well written. Self aware. Irreverent. It’s not going to be everyone’s cup of tea but to those that get it, you’ll love it. It’s like black licorice, and the Grateful Dead. You’re either a fan or not. Few people ‘kinda like’ either.
The Last Kingdom Turn You Marco Polo Travelers Frontier
Amazon Prime:
Expanse Bosch Fortitude Absentia Goliath Hand of God
These are just a few I have watched from start to finish. I’m always looking for new shows myself. I’m a serious binge watcher, maybe a whole season a day right now.
If you are a Sci-Fi nerd, you won'y get more accurate space Sci-Fi than The Expanse. The science is just solid in terms of projectiles in space, etc...
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Letterkenny Ozark HAPPY! Jack Ryan Letterkenny The Man in the High Castle The Boys The Umbrella Academy Altered Carbon Letterkenny
Marvelous Maisel is pretty funny. I saw a few episodes.
I do really want to check out Jack Ryan. When that came out, I wasn't buying Kasinski (sp?) in that role, but he wasn't bad in that Benghazi movie so I'll give it a try.
The Expanse is really good. Considering that the story was originally thought up to be a game to be played and ended up becoming a novel is really cool.
Longmire is really good. For some reason it feels old school.
If you're in to historical drama, Turn is well done. The cast really delivers.
I'd be interested in reading what folks here have to say about Ozark, Peaky Blinders, and Dark.
Also, a really good movie I watched last week was Saving Mr. Banks. Tom Hanks is on pace to play every American that needs to be played in a movie.
Been binging Bosch. I’m not always one for cop shows but I enjoy this one. I like the characters. The acting is good. The dialog is well written. The storylines are interesting. It’s not overly tropey. I like the overall tone. It’s serious without being too moody or dark. We’ve just started season 4.
We’re looking at trying out ‘Tales from the Loop’ on Amazon Prime. Anyone see it?
I just finished watching Bosch season 6 last night. Its top notch. Wondering how long we'll have to wait for the 7th (and final) season. Next, I'm considering either Ozark or Jack Ryan.
Great character although in the books he is a Vietnam vet.
I was unsure if I wanted to watch it. A friend said it was good. So I tried it. I am like you in that I am not a big cop show fan. But, I love the books. Connelly is a first class writer.
I watched a season and I did enjoy it but I still like the books better.
Looking to start Medici The Magnificent on Netflix. It has 3 seasons, has the content I like, has anyone watched it? Worth watching? Also Im kinda confused which one is the first season, looked at it like 3 times, thats why I haven’t started it, lol.
Another for Jack Ryan Hell On Wheels loosely follows the building of the railroads. Longmire The 100 is pretty good. A survival type show space to earth. Elementary is not bad Sherlock Holmes in NY. Ozark for sure I liked Jericho a lot. could have went on longer ended too soon i think The Ranch was good for awhile dropped off but still decent Designated Survivor with K. Sutherland Schitt$ Creek is pretty funny
I really enjoyed Hell on Wheels. Deadwood, too. The 100, like Sons of Anarchy, is just a good soap opera kinda show that gets old by the last season. Totally different than SoA, but a soap nonetheless. More post-apocalyptic teen oriented than anything.
I started with Jack Ryan last night, and I liked it, but I'm having a bit of a problem with John Krasinski in the lead. He's still Jim Halpert from "The Office" to me. I keep looking around for Pam, Dwight, and Michael.
The 100, like Sons of Anarchy, is just a good soap opera kinda show that gets old by the last season.
I think show should stick to four, maybe five seasons max to maintain show quality. I watched the first two or three seasons of SoA and then it just got really bad and I threw in the towel. My wife will stick with shows, however. Others shows that lasted too long, Dexter and Shameless.
I digress.
Shows to binge:
Jack Ryan Ozark (hillbilly Breaking Bad) The Outsider Watchmen Veep Better Call Saul Arrested Development (seasons 1-3) Curb Your Enthusiasm Sherlock (British version) Chernobyl
I ran a marathon in 2015 that ended in "downtown" Deadwood, ND. After the race we all went sightseeing and visited the graves of half the people in the show. It was kinda crazy and very cool. Right close to Sturgis, too!
The comedy specials on Netflix are hit-or-miss. Most of Dave Chappelle's are hysterical. Some of Joe Rogan's are awesome, but some are too much (overly raunchy or just a bunch of swearing isn't really funny to me).
I didn't really finish my thought on my previous post. The ones that 'hit' are amazing. It's just you have to sift through some not so funny, and the fact that it's highly subjective... so ratings aren't really going to help me.
That, and it's even tougher to find something that both the wife and I will laugh at.
He absolutely OWNS that role, and I say it as a fan of every book in the Jack Ryan series. The casting, overall, is spot-on.
Mrs. Maisel just rocks... classic feel-good humor. Her character is awesome, and Tony Shaloub is amazing as always. The writing is fantastic!
p.s. Letterkenny (on Hulu)
Finished the first season of Jack Ryan. He does certainly own the role. He's really good. Overall, though, I give the show a 'meh'. It's entertaining, but doesn't really do much to set it apart from the rest in its genre. All those '24' shows are pretty much the same (I realize 24 wasn't the first of its kind, but it was for me).
I watched a few episodes of The Boys on Amazon Prime. I really wanted to like it as its a different take on superheroes, which is neat. I love the idea, but it was just too weird at times. Certain scenes, I believe, were just put in for shock value that just kinda distracts.
Started Parks and Recreation and have been binging that for a couple weeks. Great show... just wish I could get the song "The Pit" out of my head once in a while lol.
Also love Aerial America on the Smithsonian channel - great stuff.
Probably my favorite pandemic binge has been Texas Metal. These dudes are artists. If you dig classic cars, customs, trucks and metal fab - this is a can't miss...
Peen mentioned a great show in another thread. It's sort of a modern day cop/western show. Set out west it's a throwback Sheriff with a host of distinctive characters. I had followed the series for a long time and didn't really think to mention it.
It's been out for almost two years but I didn't discover it til about a month ago. Cast, characters and script all amazing. Captivating, creepy, deep, heartbreaking, scary as hell. Best horror series I've ever seen. 5 stars!
For those who have seen it and liked it, Season Two comes out Friday, different house, different family: The Haunting of Bly Manor. It's got some damned big shoes to fill!
Wife and I are going back through The League, start to finish. Such a great show, I wish it was still on.
The new Unsolved Mysteries reboot on Netflix is very good, the first episode is absolute bonkers.
Barry - awesome show
Stranger Things (if you haven't already, what u watin for?)
Show that everyone likes that I cannot get into: Letterkenny, I just don't get it. Every character on the show sounds like they are reading from a cue card. I tried and just couldn't continue
I tried Cobra Kai. I couldn’t get through the first episode. So poorly acted and written. Trope filled. I know it’s really popular. To each their own.
I’m binging Schitt’s Creek now. We’re in season 3. Fun. I realized I missed a couple seasons of Alone and went back and watched it. Man those are some tough people. If you’re not familiar with the show it’s the real deal ‘survivor’. No camera crews. No production teams. The contestants get dropped off in the wilderness, miles apart, with nothing but what’s on their backs.... and camera equipment that they have to use to document their lives. They have to survive. Hunt/fish/trap for food. Create shelter. Start fire. Etc. Most seasons are in arctic/Alaskan/pacific NW Canada types of locations. They start around October. It gets colder and colder. Harder and harder. They’re all back country experts of various degrees and their skills are tested. They have a satellite phone to call for extraction. No one knows how many of others are left. Last one left that hasn’t called for help/extraction wins. I love it. The way it’s produced is really unlike most television. No loud music backing. No over the top graphics or other visual clutter. Just people trying to stay alive and not lose their minds while alone. One guy lasted 100 days. There’s no doubt in my mind he could have stayed the winter. Tough SOB.
I tried Cobra Kai. I couldn’t get through the first episode. So poorly acted and written. Trope filled. I know it’s really popular. To each their own.
If you stick with it, you will come to the realization it's actually brilliantly written. It makes fun of itself, the story works really well. They don't rely on the original movies but make sure to include little things here and there.
I tried Cobra Kai. I couldn’t get through the first episode. So poorly acted and written. Trope filled. I know it’s really popular. To each their own.
Agree with Spergon...It gets pretty good once it gets going, but starts off real slow. Took me about 3 episodes to really get into it.
I still think Machio's character is an arse.
Aside from that, The Ranch with Sam Elliot, Ashton Kutcher is pretty good. Some good comedy between them all. Some episodes better than others, but typical sitcom type writing.
Kobra Kai was really good. I agree it took a couple of episodes to get going. I also agree Daniel is an arse. Almost makes you want to root for Johnny. Can’t wait for season 3!
I’m binging Schitt’s Creek now. We’re in season 3. Fun.
I kept hearing from folks how good that show was. I watched it once and thought what in the hell is wrong with people. I watched it a second time and thought damn it's worse than the first time. After watching it a third time I thought holy crap only Donald Trump would like this crap.
I’m binging Schitt’s Creek now. We’re in season 3. Fun.
I kept hearing from folks how good that show was. I watched it once and thought what in the hell is wrong with people. I watched it a second time and thought damn it's worse than the first time. After watching it a third time I thought holy crap only Donald Trump would like this crap.
They’re a family of complete narcissists. They’d have that in common with donny. But many sitcoms characters are narcissists. Most of the Friend’s, every Sinfield character, the list goes on. The writing is funny. Not for everyone. It plays more ‘cosmopolitan’ than say King of Queens. Which I loathed. To each their own.
I tried Cobra Kai. I couldn’t get through the first episode. So poorly acted and written. Trope filled. I know it’s really popular. To each their own.
If you stick with it, you will come to the realization it's actually brilliantly written. It makes fun of itself, the story works really well. They don't rely on the original movies but make sure to include little things here and there.
Yes! Cobra Kai being cheesy is half the point. My wife and I flew through it.
We had actually watched the first season when it was on YouTube RED.
Can't wait for season 3. The final shot of his phone screen on the beach was great.
Johnny Lawrence is great and following the real life Johnny (William Zabka) on Twitter, you see what a great guy he is and how the entire cast is grateful for this renewed opportunity.
Johnny drinking the Coors Banquet beers could not be more fitting.
It's been out for almost two years but I didn't discover it til about a month ago. Cast, characters and script all amazing. Captivating, creepy, deep, heartbreaking, scary as hell. Best horror series I've ever seen. 5 stars!
For those who have seen it and liked it, Season Two comes out Friday, different house, different family: The Haunting of Bly Manor. It's got some damned big shoes to fill!
My wife and I are STRUGGLING with Bly Manor. It is not filling those biiiiig shoes. We loved Hill House.
Wife and I just started The Haunting of Bly Manor.. It's definitely slow going with a lot of plot holes, that maybe they plan to fill/explain as the season goes on, but if that's the whole premise, then it should have been a 2hr movie and be done with it. It seems to drag on.
I'm by no means some television critic. But I can tell you that my wife loves what I call strange shows like Lovecraft Country. She watched either four or five episodes. The story line seemed like it was all over the place. Even she stopped watching it.
I'm by no means some television critic. But I can tell you that my wife loves what I call strange shows like Lovecraft Country. She watched either four or five episodes. The story line seemed like it was all over the place. Even she stopped watching it.
It starts very up and down and it IS all over the place. Each episode is practically a different story. I highly recommend you give it a shot all the way through. There is some fantastic acting and great sci-fi.
A few years back, a friend bought me the complete DVD series of the original Twilight Zone.
I took one evening for a couple of weeks to rewatch all of them.
Seeing them again, I felt there were a handful of classics, lots of good or mediocre ones and a few real duds that haven't aged particularly well. imo.
What did strike me was how many familiar stars from the 50s and 60s made appearances (more than one episode, some of them) and went on to be household TV or movie staples.
Season 2 of 'His Dark Materials' just hit on HBO. Anyone see Season 1 or read the books? If you only saw the Golden Compass movie, I wouldn't let that sway you. Uggggh.
Also, if you have AppleTV, I can't recommend 'Servant' enough. It is so wonderfully creepy. Gets under your skin and stays there.
We also just jumped on the 'Schitt's Creek' bandwagon and binged it. Thought all the hype would kill it for me but really enjoyed it.
To those that like Schitts Creek and other shows written in such a manner, fast banter, innuendo, a little dark humor but generally light hearted, seek out the show ‘I’m Sorry’. It only ran for two seasons. Tragically. It’s not as quirky as Schitts but the writing was just as strong. It’s a more realistic slice of life type show. A couple raising a child in modern times. Really funny. Sucks it got dropped while shows like the Young Sheldon garbage are clogging up the networks. Yuck.
I've been binge watching the OSU/TTUN games. It's amazing how far Michigan has fallen. They had some monster teams when Tressel played them. The team with Chad Henne, Mike Hart, Breaston and Manningham probably should have won a NC. Those were some great games. Devin Gardner was probably the last really good qb they've had. RichRod depleted their talent pool, but Brady Hoke started bringing it back. Harbaugh didn't exactly inherit a disaster as far as talent goes. It really seems that the 2016 OT game sucked the life out of him, and he hasn't been able to find a qb.
I just started The 100. It's a kinda cheesy sci fi series. Done in the "twilight movie series" style about young people. But I like it. The plot is something different.
"A century after Earth was devastated by a nuclear apocalypse, 100 space station residents are sent to the planet to determine whether it's habitable."
Virgin River is decent, kind of a chick flick style, but I liked it.
The Crown was really good.
Outlander might be the best thing I've ever watched on Netflix.
Not really a binge thing because it's just a 2 hour movie but I watched Hillbilly Elegy the other night. Not a great movie but a compelling message and worth 2 hours.
Kingdom, is good, MMA kinda soap opera. 3 seasons about 50 episodes
Barbarians is good
Undercover is okay.
3% is okay
Black Lightning is kinda a super hero show from the CW, its good
Inwatch ALOT of netflix always looking for new stuff to watch. I watch at least 7 episodes of something a day. 100 was good for the first 3 seasons, Ill finish it cause that is what I do, if I get thru first season Ill watch til it finishes. Outlander is one of my favorites, wanna go rent season 5, dont want to wait for it on Netflix.
Amazon Prime sucks lately, dont think Ive watched Prime in at least 3 weeks.
Not sure if it’s been mentioned but the show See with Jason Mamoa is a good watch. I think it’s on Apple TV or something. I got a free month early in the pandemic and binged it. It’s an interesting story premise... the world has a pandemic that leaves everyone blind. Society falls into ruin. The story takes place like 500 years later. Jason is a good guy... and a bad arse. The fight scenes are great.
Speaking of AppleTV, have you seen Servant, from M. Night Shamalamasomething ? It is fantastically creepy.
I didn’t up my subscription. It was a free month. Once See comes back for season 2 I may pay for a month and binge it once the season is over. I’ll keep the M Knight Rammalammadingdong’s show in mind.
There's a new series out on National Geographic that I'm finding pretty interesting called Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller. While there's only two episodes out so far, both I've found very interesting.
The first episode was on Scams. Mainly phone scams coming from Jamaica and Israel. How they're executed and who is doing them. The second episode was on Fentanyl. Where the chemicals come from to make it, how it's made, who and how it's smuggled into the U.S.
It's just amazing how much they trust her and let her inside their operations. The third episode airs next week. You can stream the first two episodes.
About
TRAFFICKED with Mariana van Zeller is an original documentary series that explores the complex and dangerous inner-workings of the global underworld, black and informal markets. Each adventure follows Mariana on a mission to follow the chain of custody of trafficked goods, understand how to obtain the contraband, or see the 360-degree view of the trafficking world from the point of view of the smugglers, law enforcement and those caught in the crossfire.
I have been binging "Gene Roddenbury's Andromeda". Nice escapist sci-fi. A little overacted at times, but fun nonetheless. (On TubiTV, a free app with some fun stuff)
Almost finished with season 3 of Schitt’s Creek, love it. Surprised I had never heard of it til recently.
I just started season 5. I'd rate it about a C/C+, but a lot of people love the show.
My fav comedy since Seinfeld is the American version of The Office. I LOVE this show! I know it's several years old, but it's new to me. Highly recommended.
"Son of the Beach" was an American Sitcom that aired from 2000 to 2002 on FX. It was a spoof of Baywatch with much of the comedy based on sexual, double entendre's and innuendo.
Number of episodes 42, Seasons 3.
----- It really wasn't very good.
But a lot of shows aren't very good, but this is slapstick, and I'd bet most people didn't ever see it.
If you're going to binge watch something, it might as well be something stupid, I say. (If that's what you're in the mood for.)
Bosch is done well, reading John Sanford Prey series is super. For binge tv, I'm partial to British TV, as vet lived over in mother country for five years....try out Prime Endeavour series-JMHO, done well....must watch closely opening sequences or you'll be lost. And should watch season one first and on...or again lost. Cheers.
We're watching Damnation on Netflix and The Man in the White Castle on Prime. That one's set in the 1960's after the Nazi's and Japanese won WWII. We don't have a lot of time to watch, and it's difficult keeping up with 2 series at once, but we're enjoying both of them....though we're just in the 1st season of each. We don't miss cable much at all. About the only thing we do miss is the ability to pause and rewind live network TV.
I finished "The Sopranos" the other night. Game of Thrones kind of popped up as next to watch. I watched about 3 minutes, but am not in to fantasy type programs or movies, so I am not sure I will start watching that.
It's about a lawyer who was once quite good who pretty much slipped into the bottle and hit bottom. So far I've only completed the first season and each season has a new story. The lawyer is played by Billy Bob Thornton.
In the first season he and a couple of his associates take on a huge defense contractor who he believes has illegally tested a military grade Napalm type substance off the coast leading to the death of a young boys father. It's pretty much the typical "little guy takes on evil corporation" story but it's well acted, has quite a bit of action along with a lot of twists and turns. It ends up about Thornton fighting the corporate law firm more than the corporation itself.
It has action, some comedy, a little drama and a pretty good story line.
Been watching The Community on netflix, halfway through 2nd season. Enjoying it so far. Love these kind of comedies, 21 minute episodes, can fly through them. Anyway have any other recommendations on other comedies like this?
Just started “See” , it is a show on Apple’s show list. It stars Jason Mamoa, it is based kinda on the end of the world, 2 million left on the planet, and due to the virus that killed most of the people, everyone is blind. Not bad, got two episodes in last night. It has two seasons, with the 3rd on its way.
Call it what you like, But Barry is a hit, man! Check that, Barry is a HITMAN... From Cleveland, Ohio... that lands in LA (on a job) and decides he would rather be an actor. I know it sounds crazy but it all just works.
Writing, characters, acting... top notch! After one season, this is the best show I've seen in quite a while, and looks to be even better in season two.
Season 2 of Apple TV’s original series ‘See’ started last week. This season has David Bautista playing Jason Mamoa’s character’s brother. After viewing the season opener last week, there’s no love lost between the two. The fight scenes are so well choreographed. Jason’s sword work and fighting style are so fun to watch. He’s got a few absolutely brutal kills in the opening half of the show. So good.
Call it what you like, But Barry is a hit, man! Check that, Barry is a HITMAN... From Cleveland, Ohio... that lands in LA (on a job) and decides he would rather be an actor. I know it sounds crazy but it all just works.
Writing, characters, acting... top notch! After one season, this is the best show I've seen in quite a while, and looks to be even better in season two.
Season 2 of Apple TV’s original series ‘See’ started last week. This season has David Bautista playing Jason Mamoa’s character’s brother. After viewing the season opener last week, there’s no love lost between the two. The fight scenes are so well choreographed. Jason’s sword work and fighting style are so fun to watch. He’s got a few absolutely brutal kills in the opening half of the show. So good.
I loved season 1, the second season 2 episodes in, it sucks!!!
The Wire was phenomenal. Amazing writing and acting. Season 3, in particular. Omar Little is an unforgettable character. Michael K. Williams had a number of great roles.
My new fav TV show: "I Was a Teenage Felon" on the Vice channel. 'Former criminals tell true stories of how they went from being average American kids to becoming massively successful outlaws.' Most episodes are drug-related, but some are not.
We’ve been watching ‘Insecure’ on HBO. A slice of life comedy/drama. Not kid friendly.
There’s a SCI-fi show on Apple TV called ‘Foundation’. Very well made. Well written. Well acted. An interesting storyline. Good effects. Definitely worth the watch.
We have been watching 'Chapelwaite' on Epix. Was kinda sneaky we could watch the first 3 episodes on amazon for free then had to get a subscription to epix to finish watching the series. Its based on Steven King stuff with Adrian Brody we like him as an actor.
We started watching "Homeland". It holds some promise. The first season was pretty good, which we watched over maybe 4 days. The writing gets a bit slow at times, but the story line is compelling.
It was on for 11 season, so I assume it continues to build.
Anybody know when/day/time Yellowstone shows replays of the this weeks show? The streaming service I use has been 100% reliable til this week. This weeks episode just buffers and buffers and buffers some more.
Recently started Binging Seinfeld, caught alot of them randomly thoughout the years, but always had to work and with no way to record them missed alot of them. I’ve enjoyed them, got 2 seasons left.
It would be hard for me to answer your question without knowing the streaming service you use. I have Paramount Plus as one of my streaming services and have encountered no issue. Plus the new series 1883 begins on Paramount Plus on the 19th.
It's the story of the origin of the Dutton family.
Paramount Plus also carries Mayor of Kingstown which both my wife and I really like.
Gonna do the new season this coming weekend. Gotta get to Witcher too. Then Lost in Space, Then The Expanse. Then Undercover. All the while keeping up on my DVR shows like Gold Rush, Oak Island, Euphoria, NFL games, Cavs games.
Gonna do the new season this coming weekend. Gotta get to Witcher too. Then Lost in Space, Then The Expanse. Then Undercover. All the while keeping up on my DVR shows like Gold Rush, Oak Island, Euphoria, NFL games, Cavs games.
Just finished Lost In Space, Kind of bummed it's the end but thought it was overall pretty good, and they left a little bit of possibility of a spin-off or sequel.
Been wanting to watch the Witcher, but the wife said she thought it looked interesting in the preview, and wants to watch, which means now I have to go back and rewatch season 1 with her to get her up to speed, and she's not one to sit and binge watch, or even watch a single show night after night to get through a season in days, so it's like 1 or 2 episodes a week.
I have watched the first two episodes of the new season of Ozark thus far. It's very good!
If anyone is interested in a very quirky little Canadian sitcom, Corner Gas is a pretty good watch on Amazon Prime. A lot of satirical comedy. Not that I myself in any way would promote such a thing.
I'm kind of off the TV drama series thing. I was watching Alias (never saw it first run, and I do like Jennifer Garner), re-watching Mad Men, Dexter, re-watching season 1 of Ozark so I could continue the next 3 seasons, and so on. But I ran out of steam and felt my attention waning. Now I'm reading a lot, and then watching reruns of The Office, Seinfeld, Parks and Rec, and Friends (when I can stand it) before I fall asleep.
I have watched the first two episodes of the new season of Ozark thus far. It's very good!
If anyone is interested in a very quirky little Canadian sitcom, Corner Gas is a pretty good watch on Amazon Prime. A lot of satirical comedy. Not that I myself in any way would promote such a thing.
LMAO. Jfan recommended Corner Gas as my new "show to go to sleep by", instead, my wife and I are hooked! Yes quirky, good-old-fashioned comedy. The crazy old man (dad) puts it over the top. I wish it were truly "free" on Amazon, as in "ad-free". We've been watching it on IMDB with ads... you got me excited for a minute there. I may just buy it anyway, I stand firmly on my "old man" rights of all my media being commercial free.
I think we covered it before, but the final season of The Expanse is out on Prime. Overall, I thought the show was 'fine'. Solidly in the "you can definitely do worse with your time" category. I think I went in with expectations that were too high.
I'm watching the second season of the Witcher on Netflix. I'm actually not as high on this season as I was the first one (after I got past the confusion surrounding episodes not being in order).
I'm all of 1 episode into Book of Boba Fett. Read people are really disappointed but can't say for sure yet.
Bizarre ER is my go to time waster. It is a medical documentary that shows real footage, not recreations. As such it is a bit gory. But its very entertaining. If you like medical shows, you will like this.
Great thread - I should visit 'Everything Else' more often !
I've added several shows to my list to look out for - thank you. Many of my favorites are mentioned here. One comment to make - Bosch is excellent as a tv series, the books are even better. Best in class as far as I am concerned.
Some shows not mentioned that are excellent and I would highly recommend:
The Night Manager (short 4 part miniseries).
Carnival Row - fantasy series brilliantly produced with Orlando Bloom
Giri/Haji ... I think anyone who likes Bosch would love this.
You are right about Bosch, and the books too. I've read all the Bosch novels by Michael Connelly, except for the most recent - The Dark Hours. The Dark Hours is apparently a Renee Ballard-Harry Bosch collaboration. I just got it, and might start a book thread after I read it.
One of the Jack Reacher movies with Tom Cruise is about the only Tom Cruise movie I can even stand to watch at this point. and that was because of "decent" above average writing. It kind of reminded me of "the fugitive" with tommy lee jones, or the firm. Or about 30 dozen other action movies, mostly action movies are all the same and bad, but Jack Reacher at least has a couple instances of good writing.
Haven't read this whole thread but if anyone's looking for an awesome documentary to watch, there's Wild Wild Country on Netflix. It's about the Rajneesh Cult in Oregon and it is the best thing I've seen on Netflix in 10 years.
I think you will find the series on Prime has cast someone you would have much closer pictured as Jack Reacher.
The guy who plays the role of Jack Reacher is named Alan Ritchson. Had never heard of him before but man does he do a great job.
He was hilarious in the series 'Blue Mountain State'. If you ever watched BMS, it takes a minute to get used to him as Reacher. I just binged the whole season over the last two evenings, and I really liked it. I put it a step above the average soap opera action dramas that are popular these days.
Not that anyone will remember this by the time it comes around again... Many of these channels offer Black Friday deals. I got Hulu for 99 cents per month. You can cancel at any time, but why would I? Because as long as you're not a customer during the previous 30 days you're eligible for any "new customer" promo. I plan to cancel in October and re-up again on Black Friday lol.
I'm all for getting good deals on these subscription services, but compared to paying for cable, you're always going to come out ahead regardless of how many of these streaming subscriptions you have.
I'm all for getting good deals on these subscription services, but compared to paying for cable, you're always going to come out ahead regardless of how many of these streaming subscriptions you have.
Only problem is that you still need cable broadband internet access, unless you are using your mobile devices to stream. So there is still a cable company bill every month too.
Spectrum, charges $99 a month for internet only here. Or a bundle with digital streaming of their TV line up for $89 a month. The same internet is $59.99 in that package, so TV/Cable channels are $30. That is competitive with any offer out there, unless you somehow have free internet.
I'm all for getting good deals on these subscription services, but compared to paying for cable, you're always going to come out ahead regardless of how many of these streaming subscriptions you have.
Only problem is that you still need cable broadband internet access, unless you are using your mobile devices to stream. So there is still a cable company bill every month too.
Right, and all incentives are for "bundling".
Cable Co's have actually put together some pretty aggressive content and programming tiers as of late... including sharing with family members. But they're past the point of no return in my house. They will never get one penny more than I have to give them after the years of gouging.
I get that too. But I look at it like this: Some corp is going to get those dollars because we can't function without internet. I hate that, but it's true. So, I'm always going to go with the best dollar for dollar value if I can. I call it the Loyalty to my wallet program.
I'm all for getting good deals on these subscription services, but compared to paying for cable, you're always going to come out ahead regardless of how many of these streaming subscriptions you have.
Only problem is that you still need cable broadband internet access, unless you are using your mobile devices to stream. So there is still a cable company bill every month too.
Spectrum, charges $99 a month for internet only here. Or a bundle with digital streaming of their TV line up for $89 a month. The same internet is $59.99 in that package, so TV/Cable channels are $30. That is competitive with any offer out there, unless you somehow have free internet.
Is that a promo rate?
We only have Comcast/Xfinity here, when I dropped DTV and switch to Comcast (Already had internet), I got the package deal for $139, now 2 years later it's close to $250/mo. I tried out YoutubeTV and liked it, got all local channels and unlimited DVR for $65/mo, but getting the wife to understand the concept, especially after having the Xfinity voice remote has been a challenge I'm pretty sure I can get my FireTVCube to work like the Xfinity voice remote, just need to spend the time to get it set, and just haven't put in the effort yet.
I am getting Hulu Live TV which has all the same channels as cable, with some extras thrown in. Including disney+ and espn+. I saved 50 bucks dropping cable TV. Yes, I still have to pay for internet from my cable company. But 50 bucks is 50 bucks.
That would suck. For me, internet is a wash as I'd have it regardless, and I have mine locked down for $60/month. I know telecoms are prone to shenanigans, but I didn't realize some places they charge more for just internet.
I haven't run the numbers since moving back to OH, but cutting cable in southern CA saved me $100 per month, and I'd imagine it's a similar situation with most metro areas.
Since you mentioned Corner Gas as something you like, I found another quirky little show on Amazon as well. It's not actually a sitcom however. It's a stand up comedian named Johnny Harris who travels to small Canadian towns. He meets the interesting characters of the town, gives the towns history and all during the show, shows clips of him doing a stand up act in front of the people who live there about his experience.
It's quirky, funny and you learn a lot about some of the rural towns in Canada. Sure, it's certainly not for everybody but since Corner Gas is based on a very rural Canadian town I thought you might want to check it out.
We only have Comcast/Xfinity here, when I dropped DTV and switch to Comcast (Already had internet), I got the package deal for $139, now 2 years later it's close to $250/mo. I tried out YoutubeTV and liked it, got all local channels and unlimited DVR for $65/mo, but getting the wife to understand the concept, especially after having the Xfinity voice remote has been a challenge I'm pretty sure I can get my FireTVCube to work like the Xfinity voice remote, just need to spend the time to get it set, and just haven't put in the effort yet.
I think it's part of their retention program, when you threaten to cancel, that's when they offered it. Not only that, but I think it's a bundle package that anyone can get at any time as well. But I can't guarantee I'm right on that one.
You should call to cancel, and ask to talk to the business retention department. They are the only people that work there who will give you a deal to keep your business. They are wagering you won't cancel when they jack the price to "normal pricing", when you try to cancel, they will try to save your business ONLY in that department. All other customer service reps are trained to tell you that was a limited “new customer” deal, and the prices are the prices.
EDIT: Oops, responded before I finished reading your post. I have no idea about YouTube or your remote, but I enjoyed teaching my 85-year-old mother-in-law how to use those apps on a TV. I get what you are going through.
You should call to cancel, and ask to talk to the business retention department. They are the only people that work there who will give you a deal to keep your business. They are wagering you won't cancel when they jack the price to "normal pricing", when you try to cancel, they will try to save your business ONLY in that department. All other customer service reps are trained to tell you that was a limited “new customer” deal, and the prices are the prices.
This is what I do. I have a reminder set on my calendar, and each year I call them, summon some token outrage and demand they cancel my account, they offer to do the promotion for another year, and I tell them thanks and I'll see them again next year.
How Much Does the Bally Sports App Cost? The Bally Sports App (formerly Fox Sports Go) is free to download. To watch live games, you will need a cable, satellite, or subscription to a streaming service. Currently, AT&T TV is the only service that offers the ability to stream the Bally Sports App without cable. You can get a subscription to AT&T TV Choice Plan for $84.99, which includes a free year of HBO Max.
I was disgusted with the lack of affordable options, Eve's post led me back to check "NBA League Pass". Last I checked it was $99, they've lowered it to $49 (probably because the season is more than halfway completed).
That works for me because I'm out of market. Anybody in-market (Cleveland and surrounding areas) would still be subject to NBA blackout restrictions. Those viewers could only watch the game once it is completed.
Debating a subscription, this team is a lot of fun to watch, just not as much fun if your cable company threatens to shut down your internet for using illegal streams. It also sucks to have to race to the bathroom during a 30 second timeout because you can't pause, FF, RW, etc.
you should really look into Eyestream TV. You'll get all the games. There was a lot of discussion on it in the cutting the cord thread. It is legal, and it's been around for a while now. I used it for 9 months without a hitch. I'll be going back to it next NFL season. I NEED Redzone, lol. The only drawback is the lack of a dvr.
you should really look into Eyestream TV. You'll get all the games. There was a lot of discussion on it in the cutting the cord thread. It is legal, and it's been around for a while now. I used it for 9 months without a hitch. I'll be going back to it next NFL season. I NEED Redzone, lol. The only drawback is the lack of a dvr.
I love the service too. I keep mine going. For $42/month, and what you get it is the best thing going. Sure no dvr sucks, sometimes channels just dont work, but I watched every Browns game, have watched all the Cavaliers games so far, and quite a few Blue Jackets games no issues. Sure you gotta restart it a lot, reset internet, but that is a small price to pay for what I get. I also have an antenna hooked up I get like 40 channels.
Sure you gotta restart it a lot, reset internet, but that is a small price to pay for what I get.
I didn't run into too many of those issues, and when it did happen it was with a select few channels. CNN seemed to cut out a lot, and that and local channels are what my MIL watches in her room. I dropped it for Youtube TV for now, it has CNN and the locals that are easy to find for her. When the NFL starts back up I'll switch back.
Sure you gotta restart it a lot, reset internet, but that is a small price to pay for what I get.
I didn't run into too many of those issues, and when it did happen it was with a select few channels. CNN seemed to cut out a lot, and that and local channels are what my MIL watches in her room. I dropped it for Youtube TV for now, it has CNN and the locals that are easy to find for her. When the NFL starts back up I'll switch back.
When I say restart I just meant cleared cache, and force stop, I do it to keep it running good. I don't reset internet too often just saying some people have to.
Finished Reacher. It was enjoyable. Some good fight scenes, decent enough writing for what it is.
Peacemaker has gotten fun.
Boba Fett… disappointing overall. It was cool to see his survival from the Sarlac pit but the rest was too slow paced and the writing was not good. They relied too much on nostalgia to carry the story… instead of having a solid story. The last episode was good but overall I was glad it was over. Sadly. I’m a big Star Wars fan.
Just FYI, but if anyone else is looking around for something-football to watch today, Draft Day is on AMC at 12:12 pm. I've never seen it, so I'll probably tune in. If Jennifer Garner's in it, how bad could it be?
If you watched the 6 seasons of Vikings on the History channel, Netflix just released a show called Vikings Valhalla, it is 100 years after Vikings finished. It was pretty good, binged the whole season Tuesday.
Devoured on Vice is pretty good. Investigative reports into shady things that happen in the food industry. Stuff you wouldnt think of. Like stealing bee hives to boost almond industry.
I also like Hunting ISIS on Vice. Its a docu-series about American volunteers (not military, not mercenaries, they fight for free) who went to Iraq to fight ISIS.
I also like Hunting ISIS on Vice. Its a docu-series about American volunteers (not military, not mercenaries, they fight for free) who went to Iraq to fight ISIS.
That sounds intense. It also kinda sounds like it would be a joke ala Whale Wars.
Been getting into Miami Vice a lot recently. Since that was before my time I'm just getting into it for the first time and so far it's one of the best shows I've ever seen!!! I love the whole atmosphere of the show, the editing, writing, music can't be beat.
It all seems so well put together, it's rare for me to see that kind of quality on TV even now at least in my experience.
I can't get enough! Couldn't imagine experiencing it as the show aired live.
It changed the way network crime procedurals looked and felt. It was the first time evening TV shows featured established Pop stars' music in the sound track The theme was written by Jazz Fusion keyboard artist and original member of Mahavishnu Orchestra, Jan Hammer. Total synth sound- perfect for the 80's. The show even influenced mainstream fashion: loose, unconstructed suit jackets, pushed up to reveal bare arms, t-shirts underneath, tropical color schemes, casual shoes with no socks... the 'Vice look' was a rage for a number of years.
Go back and re-watch that scene in the pilot, where Crockett & Tubbs were heading to the meet in the black Daytona. The camera angles were brand new. The look was sharp. sexy. The closeups brought a sense of tension and a sense of intimacy that draws the viewer in. When Sonny stopped at that pay phone, every person in America wondered if He and Ricardo would make it out alive.
That one single Michael Mann-directed scene changed the way network TV was conceptualized. It was the first example of big-screen cinematic technique applied to the small screen.
It literally changed everything.
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Couldn't imagine experiencing it as the show aired live.
Friday nights. Prime time. You had to wait week-to-week. No Streaming. No DVR. No time-shifting. If you missed that episode, you had to wait for reruns after the season expired. AAAAND- all your friends would mock you for being out of the loop, because it was one of the first shows to feature story arcs that spanned multiple episodes in a season.
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I'll keep my comments about the show to this for tonight. Many of my other observations could serve as spoilers, and I'd hate to deprive you of the experience of watching it for the first time.
Pretty cool that you've chosen to binge a show that was part of my "youthful indiscretion years." That show was right on time for folks of my vintage.
Michael Mann fans should check out a movie he directed called "Manhunter", which was really Thomas Harris's novel "Red Dragon" that introduced (unleashed?) Hannibal Lector and led to Silence of the Lambs, Hannibal, etc. Manhunter, like Miami Vice, was highly stylized and the scene where Francis Dolarhyde gets "killed" was shot with a soundtrack of In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida that I really liked.
I love your post! I am just in awe of this series and have always had a soft spot for the 80s in particular since I was born late in that decade. Man, there's just something about the music, style, and times that is cool as hell. It really makes me want to get in a time machine and go back to that time as soon as possible! And I can't believe people used to wear Miami Vice like clothes, that is awesome! . Personally I like the style, it looks hip and classy! I definitely would have had my unconstructed suit jacket.
I guess watching Miami Vice was a long time coming for me as I've been a big Michael Mann fan for quite a while. I love everything about his movies and content, they're just so stylish and atmospheric. Mindhunter, Thief, Heat, To Live and Die in LA (wasn't Mann but seemed like it), all great work! This most recent episode I watched of Miami Vice had Bruce Willis on it! Lol! Didn't expect that. It's nice to see in reference to the recent news about his condition.
When I read your words about prime time viewing it instantly brought me back to a simpler time in my life when I was a child. We all huddled around the TV to make sure we were there for things like the airing of TGIF or as we called it the Friday night lineup featuring Family matters, Boy Meets World, Step by Step. On Saturday's we looked forward to SNICK on Nicklodeon and Are You Afraid of the dark. I loved those times because the first airings provided a sense of community, a belonging that you shared in something special. Only people of certain generations can understand that, it's hard to explain.
If I could I would go back to a time before social media, streaming, and most of the Internet. It's funny cause I make my living thanks to software but I'd trade that in a minute!
Michael Mann fans should check out a movie he directed called "Manhunter", which was really Thomas Harris's novel "Red Dragon" that introduced (unleashed?) Hannibal Lector and led to Silence of the Lambs, Hannibal, etc. Manhunter, like Miami Vice, was highly stylized and the scene where Francis Dolarhyde gets "killed" was shot with a soundtrack of In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida that I really liked.
“One of the first questions we had when we started the show is will we see Walt and Jesse? And I can say, yes, we will,” says co-creator @petergould on #BetterCallSaul season 6.
Yep. I've been binging season 5 again, getting ready for 6... should be crazy.
You watch Saul, Pit?
We finished up Dexter a few weeks ago. We like that.
We liked Saul but stopped about mid way, maybe pick that back up. She liked the Americans, me not so much. I didn't like a show where Russian spies were the main story line.
Not so much binge watching as in start to finish, but I have been catching a lot of "Law and Order" of later. That is a decent show that is pretty realistic.
I'm glad you mentioned Law and Order. Watched it occasionally back in the day. Now I see it's streaming on Youtube TV, once you put something in your library there it usually pulls in a ton of episodes immediately.
Yeah, I watch Saul and watched Breaking Bad. Once I'm caught up on Saul I'm going to start watching Dexter. I usually concentrate on a hand full of shows at a time combined with sports and news. I only allocate so much time to watching TV so it makes it easier to keep up with and keep the plot lines and stories fresh in my mind. Really looking forward to the coming episodes of Ozark as well.
Yep. I've been binging season 5 again, getting ready for 6... should be crazy.
You watch Saul, Pit?
So we recently went back and rewatched Breaking Bad again. Breaking Bad is (was) my number one show of all time.
So we also, in order to get ready for the final season of Saul, went back and watched that entire series again, not just season 5. I have come to the conclusion that Better Call Saul is better than Breaking Bad. It is the true number one show of all time. However, the show is entirely dependent on Breaking Bad having existed. Weird dynamic.
Watching Saul again I just couldn't believe how good it was. The character development and arcs of Chuck, Jimmy, Kim, Mike, and Gus were just spectacular. I don't think I've ever watched a show that took such care with telling the story and developing characters.
Pit - Dexter is the definition of "binge-worthy" imo. You'll enjoy it.
Rish - that's hard to argue with. Saul and BB are pretty much neck and neck for me, but you bring great points in terms of character development. "Spectacular" fits the bill.
I also think the previous season of Ozark pushed that show into the same territory.
Love Ozark but it's not an original show. It's Breaking Bad set in the Ozarks. I am looking forward to the final episodes though. It's still very good.
I also love Yellowstone but it's basically Sons of Anarchy set in Montana.
I've hesitated to add this to the list because it's so new. In fact, it's so new, you can't actually binge it. It's on NBC, and it's called: "The Endgame."
It flips the script about who's 'the good guy' and who's 'the bad guy'... and it keeps you guessing from one episode to another.
So..... not so as much a 'binge,' as 'ongoing obsession,' I give you:
To date, the show is still airing its first run, and there is no word about ratings or a second season. I invite you all to watch the first 3 episodes. See what you think. If you think it's worthy of more time/attention, blast some folks who can make things happen.
I guess my problem is not that binge watching has become a thing, I don't want to wait week to week to watch a show.
I could have never watched the Soprano's if I had to do it week to week over years. Once it dropped to streaming, I watched the entire thing over a month or two. All shows like that like to have the cliff hanger, hooks. I don't want to wait a week or for the next season to see how it plays out.
I didn't watch the show because I was still working and had to go to sleep before it aired, but my wife was hooked on "Dallas" back in the 80's. I can't tell you how sick I got about hearing my wife talking about who killed JR?
I get it, I might have been the same had I watched the show. They all got that from those old soaps back in the 50's and 60's. Set the hook to keep them glued to the TV the next day.
Has anyone been watching the HBO series about the Lakers? I've seen 2 episodes, not concurrently, so I'm not in position to talk much about it. But, even though I'm no longer an NBA fan, it does look interesting. I suppose my question is how accurate are the portrayals of characters like Magic Johnson, Kareem, Jerry West, Larry Bird, Pat Riley, etc? For example, Jerry West is portrayed as an unstable rage-a-holic, and Larry Bird is like a sociopathic contract killer. I'm curious how much license they are taking with these character portrayals? That said, the episodes I watched were very entertaining.
I am much more of a reader than series viewer, but there is something about Ozark that wants me to watch more. The female charter is deep. So many flaws. So many strengths. The entire show has unreal family dynamics. No good guys. Lots of flawed characters.
There was another show that I did not think I would like, but my son encouraged me to watch it. It was about a female chess player. I watched season one and it was freaking outstanding. Very complex character development that one would expect to find in a well-crafter literary book. I need to check out if they started another season.
I assume you're talking about The Queen's Gambit... it was based on a 1983 novel by Walter Tevis. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Queen%27s_Gambit_(novel) And yes, it was amazing. I was sure at the time it was meant to stand alone in one season, and any rumors of a second season have always been shot down by director and EP, Scott Frank...
"I feel like we told the story we wanted to tell, and I worry – let me put it differently – I'm terrified that if we try to tell more, we would ruin what we've already told."
As for Ozark, couldn't agree more. No comparison between the depth of characters here to Breaking Bad or Saul. Tom Pelphrey as Ben Davis (Wendy's brother) delivered one of the most poignant performances I've seen in quite awhile. His Emmy snub was, in a word, pathetic.
Edit to add:
Can't be posted here due to language, Youtube: Ozark – Ben Davis Opening Monologue (Full Taxi Scene) Chilling. I remember being a bit befuddled early in that season. Wondering why they would attempt to inject such a weird character into such a complex plot... boy did I get it wrong.
Has anyone been watching the HBO series about the Lakers? I've seen 2 episodes, not concurrently, so I'm not in position to talk much about it. But, even though I'm no longer an NBA fan, it does look interesting. I suppose my question is how accurate are the portrayals of characters like Magic Johnson, Kareem, Jerry West, Larry Bird, Pat Riley, etc? For example, Jerry West is portrayed as an unstable rage-a-holic, and Larry Bird is like a sociopathic contract killer. I'm curious how much license they are taking with these character portrayals? That said, the episodes I watched were very entertaining.
Winning Time is deliciously entertaining!
Here's a horrific documentary that recently released on Netflix and is rough to digest, but important nonetheless.
I assume you're talking about The Queen's Gambit... it was based on a 1983 novel by Walter Tevis. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Queen%27s_Gambit_(novel) And yes, it was amazing. I was sure at the time it was meant to stand alone in one season, and any rumors of a second season have always been shot down by director and EP, Scott Frank...
"I feel like we told the story we wanted to tell, and I worry – let me put it differently – I'm terrified that if we try to tell more, we would ruin what we've already told."
Outstanding show. As much as I would like to see more, sometimes the story is told. I don't think you could add more to Atticus Finch by moving on to other cases he may have taken. The "Gambit" story was told.
I have not read all of this so maybe it was mentioned
IMO "The Last Kingdom" is one of the best things I have ever seen on tv.
I read all the books before it was sold to Netflix and they are outstanding. Often the movie version of books do not have the format to make it work.
Bernard Cornwell "The Saxon Tales" is 16 books. So Netflix had the format to tell the story. It has been so successful internationally that there is a two and half hour movie that will be made following the last episode of The Last Kingdom.
It is a deep rich story with many characters. It is based in fact. Historical fiction is the genre. Just a great story.
I assume you're talking about The Queen's Gambit... it was based on a 1983 novel by Walter Tevis. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Queen%27s_Gambit_(novel) And yes, it was amazing. I was sure at the time it was meant to stand alone in one season, and any rumors of a second season have always been shot down by director and EP, Scott Frank...
"I feel like we told the story we wanted to tell, and I worry – let me put it differently – I'm terrified that if we try to tell more, we would ruin what we've already told."
As for Ozark, couldn't agree more. No comparison between the depth of characters here to Breaking Bad or Saul. Tom Pelphrey as Ben Davis (Wendy's brother) delivered one of the most poignant performances I've seen in quite awhile. His Emmy snub was, in a word, pathetic.
Edit to add:
Can't be posted here due to language, Youtube: Ozark – Ben Davis Opening Monologue (Full Taxi Scene) Chilling. I remember being a bit befuddled early in that season. Wondering why they would attempt to inject such a weird character into such a complex plot... boy did I get it wrong.
Love your takes on this. Yes, it was The Queen's Gambit. Outstanding character development. I wanted more, but I was thinking that the character portrayal might devolve into something far less than what the first season gave us. Thanks for educating me on what Scott Frank said. I did not know that.
Good take on Ozark. Wendy's brother was actually a great addition and I think it was right to move on from him. He played that role well and was eerily creepy. Hell, the entire show is full of creepy characters and a disturbing story line and plot. I'm not often a fan of that type of thing, but somehow, this show pulls it off. I kinda squirm when I watch it and then I binge watch multiple episodes.
Hell, the entire show is full of creepy characters and a disturbing story line and plot.
Did you happen to catch "Sons of Anarchy"? Another show full of creepy characters. You get somewhat attached to them then the story takes you right back to the reason these people are horrid excuses for human beings. The story never got dull, twists and turns every episode. My wife even liked it.
As for Ozark, great show but tainted by the fact that it's a Breaking Bad reboot and that Jason Bateman plays the same character in every movie and show he's in. He's same character in Couple's Retreat as he is in Ozark.
Interesting. But again, I am an avid reader and rarely watch television other than football. So, I have no idea about character familiarity. I really like the show, but it's cool if others don't Just making conversation.
LOL at your "my wife even liked it." But no, I haven't watched that show. Would you recommend it?
Yes. I never thought I'd like a show about a biker gang, but it really kept our interest until the end....and the ending itself was good. It had legitimate closure.
Another show I watched was Mindhunter or something like that. I thought it was pretty good. A bit repetitive in regards to episode topics, but I watched. I actually identified w/the one dude who was part of the team and his adopted son was sketchy and how he had to juggle his family life w/his professional life. I also like the idea of how "profiling" became a thing. I remember a long time ago and reading about an FBI profiler and how it was so mentally and emotionally taxing to put oneself inside the mind of a serial killer. There really is something to about how doing such things can affect one's own thought processes. I'm huge into the powers of psychology. Not a fan of action stories w/the BANG, BOOM, ROAR scenes. The mind is the most interesting and scariest aspect of life, in my opinion.
As for Ozark, great show but tainted by the fact that it's a Breaking Bad reboot and that Jason Bateman plays the same character in every movie and show he's in. He's same character in Couple's Retreat as he is in Ozark.
Rish...SOA jumped the shark after season 3. It was just really bad tv and writing after that. Absurdly redundant. They now have Yellowstone, which is just SOA on horses.
I agree on Ozark. First couple season were good, this last season was just bad. I threw in the towel.
Give me a limited a series where the writers do not have to keep coming up with new plots for the sake of extending the series.
Looking forward to this on HBO Max...same people that did The Wire...
Stumbled across Mindhunter in 2021, it was definitely my favorite "binge" show in 2021. Season 3 has been kicked around but now looks like it probably won't happen. Shame. "Huge into the powers of psychology" should probably go on my tombstone... we're a lot alike in that area, Vers. And yes, Bill Tench and his relationship with his son and wife was a great subplot that many can relate to when they're so deep in their work -- even though it was his partner and crime that was often dragging him deeper down the rabbit hole.
Delving into the mind of psychopathic killers was enough on it's own, following the timeline of the FBI and the journey into identifying serial killers put the show over the top. Pretty damned accurate account historically, even to the point of combining the real-life players into the personalities of the actors. Very true to the real-life crimes it covered with the Atlanta killings being the background mystery behind many of the other crimes that they covered.
Another thing I remember about that show is how great the cinematography and quality of "setting" was. Many times I was nodding and thinking things like "I remember those lamps, seemed like everybody had one back in the day". Silly, but I really appreciated that painstaking attention to detail.
If you missed this gem of a western series, you have to binge it.
Loved that show, was really looking forward to season 2 and beyond but the ending of season 1 ruined it for me. I won’t talk about it in case someone else watches it, but it really sucked for me!!!
I agree with you. After a while, you could see the manufactured drama coming a mile away and it was ALWAYS somebody rashly doing something stupid without talking to anybody about anything that caused the next round of drama, and it was usually Jax's mother doing it.
One thing to consider is that art is very subjective. My wife and son love action movies. I despise them. Car chases, bombs blowing up, etc........equals lame in my world, but they love that stuff.
I am not a big fan of horror movies, either. Fake thrills, suspenseful music, cats jumping out of doorways, etc.....>Please! But again, a lot of people love those flicks. I will admit that I saw The Omen in a theater when it first came out and that movie troubled me. Damn!
I always thought real life possibilities like Dressed to Kill, Fatal Attraction, etc were far more scary because they could actually occur.
With that said, we all have different tastes and there really is no real right or wrong answer.
Disagree about Sons, but it's been many years since I watched the show. Might have a different take if I went back and watched it again.
I made the same Sons/Yellowstone comment earlier in the thread. It's interesting that the creator of Yellowstone, Taylor Sheridan, played Sheriff Hale in the first two seasons of Sons. It's almost like he said 'where can I do this story again but we'll switch a few things around ... setting (Montana/California), transportation (horses/motorcycles), and patriarch instead of matriarch.
Gotta admit though Costner is great in that show. It's a fun show. We like it quite a bit.
Cannot stand horror movies. Don't really know what the point is.
I will say movies like Misery, etc. that have some realism to them scare the crap out of me. I saw Misery in high school and slept with the lights on that night. I just had this vision of waking up and having Kathy Bates standing over me with a 12in blade as soon as I opened my eyes.
Ive been binging a Netflix documentary series named Rotten. Its about the food industry. Sketchy business things. Not PETA things. Its a good time waster.
I've been following a new series on Paramount Plus called The Offer.
It follows the making of The Godfather from the very beginning. I think The Godfather is one of the greatest movies of all time. As it turns out, it may have been the greatest movie that was almost never made. The movie I was very familiar with. I've watched it many times. But the back story itself has almost as many twists and turns as the movie.
There's another series on Amazon Prime my wife likes more than I do. It has enough in the story about two families on a ranch and their animosity that I don't find it boring, but mixes in some sci fi which is more her thing. It's called Outer Range.
What an amazing story this is! And yes, I'm one who watches The Kentucky Derby annually as a family tradition. If one watches the entire race Rich Strike started the race in last place. Started on the far outside in paddock 21.
Bruh- I don't care how many times I watch this, it will never be enough.
We can all see the exact moment when that horse 'dumped the nitro.' From that point on, his win was a forgone conclusion. But no one saw it coming on Saturday.
Dawg- this ain't right. I got back-to-back marathon rehearsals tomorrow... and now, I'm gonna be up 'til 2 watching this damn animal do the impossible. I will find a way to get retribution. Trust that.
Im currently binging The Naked Archaeologist. Its a documentary series about biblical archaeology. 3 seasons, tons of episodes Different stuff about biblical figures and biblical life. Pretty neat stuff.
Just watched a weird, dark, kinda crazy show on Netflix called ‘Brand New Cherry Flavor’. It was good but likely not everyone’s cup of tea. If you like strange, and you don’t mind a little sex and violence… enjoy.
While not really a binge show, a great movie to watch is '12 Mighty Orphans". I watched it for the 2nd time on Prime. You might have to search to find what platform it is on in your area.
A truth based football movie. I see it as being a binge movie for me, meaning I can watch it over and over. Staying in the sports genre, kind of like "Hoosiers", one of those movies that never gets old. You flip through the channels, see it is on, and you leave it on.
We’re watching a show on Netflix called Sandman. It’s fantasy. Good visual effects. Interesting storyline and such. It’s well reviewed. I wouldn’t call it groundbreaking but if you’re into the genre it’s entertaining.
Watched the first episode of Amazon’s new LOTR series. It’s beautifully crafted. The story is just unfolding so I’ll hold back any true review. I’m looking forward to watching the second episode this evening.
Both Yellowstone and Longmire were excellent. The Queens Gambit was great. Now in the 3rd season of Bosch. It hooks you.
Almost through season 4 of Yellowstone. Got Longmire on the list for the next binge.
Reaally like Yellowstone. Costner is amazing and Beth Dutton (actress Kelly Reilly) is one of my favorite characters of all time. She defines female bad@ass. She will out-think you, out "evil" you when the occasion calls for it, and still be the first to stand there and take a punch -- and laugh and spit at you with a bloody nose.
If you would be interested in a newer type of show that's sort of a of throwback to the days of old school police shows I agree with Peen. Bosch is worth watching. My wife and I love it!
I don't know how many of you have Paramount+ but for those who do I found what I believe is a hilarious sitcom series about two cops on a long, investigative drug steak out. These two cops have been on this steak out for what seems like forever with nothing really happening. It has a great cast. My wife and I both enjoy the show. It's called "No Activity".
There is a trailer available on Youtube but I can not post it due to content. Just look under No Activity trailer.
The show allows survivors to explain in their own words how they overcame life-threatening circumstances without dramatic reenactments. Most episodes feature two or three separate stories involving scenarios such as kidnapping, assaults, or getting injured or stranded in a remote location. The format shows the survivor speaking into the camera to describe their experiences, with occasional use of title cards to summarize events, or photographs of locations or people mentioned by the narrators.
While it's a little offbeat and unusual, Sprung is a pretty funny sitcom that can be seen on Amazon via freevee. Here is the basic plot line and a place you can see more details on the show along with two trailers....
Quote
After having been previously incarcerated, Jack moves in with his former cellmate, Rooster, and is determined to turn his life around, just at the start of a global pandemic.
While it's a little offbeat and unusual, Sprung is a pretty funny sitcom that can be seen on Amazon via freevee. Here is the basic plot line and a place you can see more details on the show along with two trailers....
Quote
After having been previously incarcerated, Jack moves in with his former cellmate, Rooster, and is determined to turn his life around, just at the start of a global pandemic.
Started it when you posted, and binged a few the last couple days. Characters are great, pandemic story lines are very funny. You won't fall off the couch laughing but the entertainment value is off the charts. Definitely binge-worthy... in an "offbeat and unusual" way.
Nope. I get the "what the hell are you watching?" from the wife frequently.
Very well done. Got better with every episode. The ending of season 1 doesn't really bode well for another season, but who knows. If not, it was wrapped in a nice little package with a happy ending and plenty of laughs and tongue-in-cheek in between.
I'll have to check out some of Garcia's other stuff... Raising Hope and My Name Is Earl to start.
Just thought of this when I was reading the "Sequels" thread.
For all the Godfather fans (who isn't?), The Offer is a 10 part miniseries on the making of The Godfather.
"Oscar-winning producer Albert S. Ruddy's never-before-revealed experiences of making The Godfather"
If you don't know the some of the stories behind the making of that movie, they're larger than life. Some crazy stuff went on behind the scenes; and the whole time Ruddy and Francis Ford Coppola are fighting Paramount, tooth and nail, to get the movie made in a matter that will do the story justice.
Brilliant... we loved it. If you love the Godfather, you will love this too.
One possible bummer is that it's only streaming on Paramount+... I believe it's currently 4.99 per month but there may be some promos out there.
I agree. For those who haven't seen it and are fans of the Godfather movies I would say it's a must watch. I think Paramount+ has enough good shows to make it worth the modest price tag. Mayor of Kingstown, Tulsa King, 1883 and 1923 are shows my wife and I both like a lot. Those of you who are Yellowstone fans would certainly appreciate 1883 and 1923. It's pretty much a history of the Dutton family.
New season of Vikings Valhalla on Netflix, cant wait for the weekend. Anyone else checking out that 90’s show? I like simple, silly, stupid and short, so I’m going to check it out.
Just finished season 1 of Roswell, was okay, so I’m going to continue it. Halfway through season 1 of New Amsterdam, also not bad, going to keep watching.
I agree. For those who haven't seen it and are fans of the Godfather movies I would say it's a must watch. I think Paramount+ has enough good shows to make it worth the modest price tag. Mayor of Kingstown, Tulsa King, 1883 and 1923 are shows my wife and I both like a lot. Those of you who are Yellowstone fans would certainly appreciate 1883 and 1923. It's pretty much a history of the Dutton family.
Paramount+ is the best streaming purchase I've made in quite awhile. And I stole it on Black Friday... $24.99 for the year (50% off)... I'll keep it at $50 next year. I should probably pre-pay now before the price goes up.
Draws from the CBS tier including Smithsonian and Comedy Central. Tons of programming including Paramount movies.
The current series are some of the best on the tube.
I love how they're building around the Yellowstone story. It is the best stuff on TV. 1923 is amazing with Harrison Ford.
1883 is the most captivating series I've watched in years.
Sam Elliott, Faith Hill and Tim Mcgraw are amazing. Isabel May as Elsa Dutton steals the show in every way. Her narration is eloquent, poetic, and downright haunting. The audible diary of her journey takes an already amazing story to a level I've not seen in quite awhile. And this in a show could get by on characters, story and filming production alone. In the end you know it can only be one perfect season as it rips your heart out of your soul lol. I can't say enough.
I think you just convinced me to buy. I've been wanting to watch the movie Greyhound " Tom Hanks " and its the only place to see it. Love Yellowstone and want to get into 1883. Thx for the review!
I suggest a series I found that I stream on Hulu called Brockmire for those who enjoy a good sitcom. It certainly isn't for everybody. It's pretty raunchy and over the line. I tried to find a trailer for it that I could post here but everyone I fond had language I couldn't post on here.
To give you the backdrop it's about a disgraced baseball announcer who has taken a job to announce for some small town minor league team in the middle of nowhere. The supporting cast is pretty good. Brockmore is played by Frank Azaria. The team owner is played by Amanda Peet. The bartender is played by Mollie Ephraim who some may remember as the oldest daughter to Tim Allen on the show The Last Man Standing.
The show can be rented on many streaming outlets but is free on Hulu.
You can check out some of the trailers for the show on youtube.
Looking for something new to binge, and alot of people have mentioned Succession, well I watched 3 episodes last night, still not sure about it. Any thoughts?
It's a rather complicated story of personal dynamics within a family. While I certainly like the series my wife is a bigger fan of it than I am. But it certainly takes some episodes to fully get all the characters, their personalities and the dynamics between them.
Not sure if it’s been discussed but there’s a show called Severence that is really good. Only one season. Has a great cast. It’s… different… a slow burn for sure. The first half of the season you’re not really even sure what the plot is going to evolve into. The last few episodes sheds more light but there’s still a few pieces that leave openings for it to evolve further… in various directions.
I don’t want to give too much up as it does slow burn. So you need to watch it yourself, as too much info from the outside might skew how you perceive it.
It’s on Apple TV.
97% on Rotten Tomatoes. 8.7 on IMDb
Cast… Adam Scott, John Turturro, Christopher Walken, and Patricia Arquette.
I really enjoy Perry Mason. No, not the old one even though I thought it was a great series. But the new version of Perry Mason which is in its second season now on HBO plus. I was very hesitant to watch it at the beginning because I felt they would try to remake the original. But while the names of the characters are the same, their roles and depictions are completely different. Set in the 1930's I found that the show is one that I like very much.
Looking for something new to binge, and alot of people have mentioned Succession, well I watched 3 episodes last night, still not sure about it. Any thoughts?
Succession is amazing. Stick with it. Logan is such a great character and Greg and Tom are hilarious. Roman is a gem. Lots of great characters overall.
Looking for something new to binge, and alot of people have mentioned Succession, well I watched 3 episodes last night, still not sure about it. Any thoughts?
It's supposed to be really good. I just put the first season on. So far? Good vibes, but I'm barely into it.
Looking for something new to binge, and alot of people have mentioned Succession, well I watched 3 episodes last night, still not sure about it. Any thoughts?
It's supposed to be really good. I just put the first season on. So far? Good vibes, but I'm barely into it.
Finished season 1 last night. It was good, gonna start season 2 tonight after work.
Looking for something new to binge, and alot of people have mentioned Succession, well I watched 3 episodes last night, still not sure about it. Any thoughts?
It's supposed to be really good. I just put the first season on. So far? Good vibes, but I'm barely into it.
Finished season 1 last night. It was good, gonna start season 2 tonight after work.
Just finished season one, started season two today. I like it so far.
Ensemble cast which changes with each episode. Quality actors/timely, compelling story lines.
From the official website: "A crime anthology series where viewers are taken on the journey of the defendant. Each episode opens in a courtroom on the accused, with viewers knowing nothing about their crime or how they ended up on trial. Told from the defendant's point of view through flashbacks, "Accused" holds a mirror up to the current times with evocative and emotional stories. Viewers discover how an ordinary person gets caught up in an extraordinary situation, ultimately revealing how one wrong turn leads to another, until it's too late to turn back." https://www.fox.com/accused/
This show requires effort to enjoy. If you turn it on expecting to only half-watch it while you do other things, forget it. You will entirely miss the point of the show. In other words: watch it only when you are ready to commit to the entire performance. By its very nature, God/The Devil is in the details. They are one hour TV performances that look and feel like feature movies. This show is just that good.
A show my wife and I liked was Jury Duty on Amazon Prime. It's a sitcom which some people don't care for and it certainly won't be for everyone. I would categorize it as somewhat of being in the mockumentary genre. Everyone on the show are actors accept for the jury foreperson and only he is unaware the entire thing is being faked.
I heard an interview with James Marsden earlier this week.
He sang the praises of- (is Ronald his name?) for rolling with the whole thing, and being a truly good sport about it at the end. The cast absolutely loved the guy, and went the extra mile to treat him with respect. Their takeaway- his humanity is what made the show.
Yes and that was the entire takeaway from the show for me. Through all of the craziness, Ronald stayed focused, took people for who they were, and of course they made some of them unique characters. He was kind to everyone. While I found the show to be funny, though not everyone likes a mockumentary, in the end it was more than that.
Along with The Soprano's, for those who have HBO streaming which is now simply called MAX, I recommend they also view The Wire and Boardwalk Empire. My guess is most of those who have the service have alreqdy watched them, but for those who haven't they're great shows.
The Lincoln Lawyer is a series on Netfix my wife and I both enjoy. It will be premiering it's second season on July 6th. The first season is available now. The second season will be released in two parts. The first five episodes will be released on July 6th and the other five episodes will be released on August 3rd.
And for those of you who are Timothy Olyphant fans or were fans of the series Justified, which I loved, U.S. Marshal Raylon Givens will now be in Miami instead of the hollers of Kentucky in a new Justified series called Justified Primeval which will premiere on FX July 18th. I can't show the trailer on the board due to language but it is available on youtube.
Just began watching a new Netflix series that just came out today called Quarterback. It takes you through the 2022 season including some of their personal life with Kirk Cousins, Marcus Mariota and Patrick Mahommes. While some posters are strictly Browns fans many of us follow the game which includes other teams and the sport as a whole. For most of us I think this would be a show they may be interested in watching.
Personally I like the style, it looks hip and classy! I definitely would have had my unconstructed suit jacket. 
