Sunday 30 June 2013

World War Z Movie Review


When an unknown virus spreads across the world turning people into zombies, Gerry Lane (Brad Bitt), his wife Karin (Mireille Enos), and their two daughters Rachel (Abigail Hargrove) and Constance (Sterling Jerins) barely make it out of Philadelphia alive when the city is overrun by the infected. They are aided by Thierry Umutoni (Fana Mokoena), the UN Deputy Secretary-General, and Gerry's former boss, and taken to a U.S. Navy vessel off the coast of New York City, where a team of analysts and military personnel is analysing the scope of the worldwide outbreak. When there, Umutoni asks Gerry to help investigate the virus and assist virologist, Dr. Andrew Fassbach (Elyes Gabel), find the outbreak's source, because of his expertise as a former UN investigator.
Under duress for his family's safety, Gerry reluctantly agrees to fly to Camp Humphreys, a military base in South Korea where the word "zombie" was supposedly first used in reference to the outbreak.

From the very beginning the film is action packed and suspenseful, showcasing brilliant scenes of mass chaos and destruction. If the film wasn't in the middle of a suspenseful action sequence, the plot was moving just as fast with Gerry Lane doing plenty of globe trotting throughout the films 116min in order to find the origin of the virus and a possible cure. Although some of the situations Lane's character finds himself facing are borderline absurd, as are the zombies abilities at times, you're willing to maintain your suspension of disbelief for the entertaining action sequences. Similarly, the film starts to get slightly repetitive when characters continue to make the same mistakes again and again when faced with the zombies, but again they are forgivable.

The film also doesn't seem to define itself to a particular genre of apocalyptic film, with cities in chaos, military action, and scientific investigation all playing major parts in the film. Some my argue that this gives the film a lack of cohesiveness, but the tone always remains intact, and having the different aspects played out ensures that the film never gets stale.

While all this was done extremely well, it's safe to say it leaves the film with little room to do much else. If your after the thinking man's zombie apocalypse this movie isn't it. There's no time left for the development of the characters and their relationships, let alone time for a discussion of philosophical ideologies among them.

The ending is very sentimental and a little anti-climatic considering some of the more exciting scenes that preceded it, but it does it's job in providing a satisfying conclusion to the movie.

Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable action film, with great pacing and plenty of suspense thrown in to keep the majority entertained.

Rating: 4/5

Monday 24 June 2013

True Blood 6.2 Review: The Sun


True Blood got back to basics this week, while still managing to intrigue with new characters and deepening plotlines. Arlene finally called Sookie up on not being at work (when has she ever been there, ever?), but of course she is Sookie and she can't even make it to Merlotte's before literally stumbling into supernatural beings, this one being a  Halfling fairy hybrid like herself named Ben. He's been injured by a vampire and despite her willingness to move past the supernatural and to stop inviting handsome stranger's into her house, she does so anyway because she's Sookie. When he recovers she tells him about the safe place for faeries, the faerie safehouse/ club. She starts to take him there, but when he reads her find and hears the name Bill, she senses gather, and she returns home, directing him the rest of the way, alone. Of course, because it's Sookie, when she returns home she is yet again confronted with the supernatural in Jason bearing their faerie grandfather Naill, who, as it turns out, is not actually Warlow. He tells them that he's there to kill Warlow and that there's a power in their bloodline that allows them to create an orb of light that can kill any vampire it touches, but that Sookie can only ever use it as a last resort because it would drain her fae powers completely. While the verdict is still out on what role Naill will really play for the course of the season, Rutger Hauer is an enigmatic actor, and having him as a parental figure towards Sookie and Jason made both characters a little more tolerable because they were finally being given some strong direction.

Meanwhile Eric was forced to take charge of the Governor Burnell situation after the incident at Fangtasia in which Tara was shot with a very painful to vampires UV light bullet. Pam made it abundantly clear that there were more humans then vampires, and that with weapons like that maybe they should be afraid. Eric was not going to stand by and watch this happen, so hilariously disguised man meant to be discussing a bill about the extinction of the whooping crane with the Governer. Eric tries to glamour him, but they've made contacts that prevent you from being glamoured (wow, who knew humans could actually do stuff?), and Eric is about to be taken away by armed guards when he flies away. Later on  Eric flies up to the room of the Governor's daughter after she has taken off her contacts, and glamours her to let him in. Clichéd, but effective.

Over at Bill's he has an episode in which he can see and feel various vampires being tortured by humans now that they have no rights in Louisiana, and falls into a comatose like state, much to Jessica's dismay. While comatose he has a vision of Lillith who tells him he proved himself worthy as he won the battle for her blood. He asks if he is God to which Lilith says that no he is not god just as she is not god although some will come to worship him as a god just as they do Lilith herself but there is no god but god. Meanwhile, in an attempt to wake Bill from his coma Jessica orders a blonde meal on wheels, and while it initially doesn't seem to rouse him, before the woman can leave Bill opens his mouth and siphons her blood through the air from her mouth. Back in the vision Lilith then tells Bill to trust what he knows and trust what he sees, and when the time comes he will know exactly what to do and she then disappears and he wakes from the coma. The TV in Bill's office turns on as he does so, and Jessica returns at the noise. On the television is a news report highlighting one of the tortured vampires Bill experienced previously, and Jessica exclaims that he can see the future. At that moment Bill has another vision. He sees Jessica, Tara, Eric, Pam, Nora and other vampires standing in what looks like a gas chamber before the roof opens revealing the sun, which precedes to burn all of the vampires.

At Merlotte's Sam is approached by a woman who openly addresses him as a shifter. He takes her to his back office where she introduces herself as Nicole Wright, co founder of the Vampire Unity Society and tells Sam she wants to help Sam come out as a shifter to the world. Sam obviously objects to the idea but Nicole tries to convince him that once humans are done with vampires they'll come after shifter's next and the only way to win would be if all supernatural beings came out publicly in a unified front. Sam is still not interested and she leaves. Later on Sam returns home where Lafayette has being looking after Emma. Martha, Alcide, and Danielle show up asking for Emma now that Luna is dead, but Sam refuses to giver her to them. A fight ensues and the wolfs beat up Sam and Lafayette before taking a screaming Emma. All the while Nicole and three of her friends watch from the bushes filming the incident.

An a very intriguing episodes with majority of the plots moving forward swiftly and some even unexpectedly, I hope there's more episode like this to come.

Rating 4/5

Wednesday 19 June 2013

The Veronica Mars Kickstarter Movie Starts Filiming


Often after a cult television show finishes airing (usually due to cancellation) there's always talk of a continuation in some shape or form, mostly by the fans who aren't ready to give up on their favourite show just yet, but occasionally the creators/ writers/ actors themselves express interest in keeping the show going. Buffy, Angel & Charmed all got to continue on in comic book form. Firefly got a film, Serenity (although for Whedon fans that'll never be enough). Arrested Development continued online. And even 24 is returning to television in 2014 after being off the air for three years.

However, for all these success stories it's actually very rare for this to happen. Or at least it seemed that way until about a month ago, when Rob Thomas, creator of cult hit Veronica Mars started a Kickstarter campaign to bring back his beloved heroine for a feature length film. Below is the video that Rob Thomas, Ms. Veronica Mars herself Kristen Bell, and other actors from the show Enrico Colantoni, Ryan Hansen, and Jason Dohring appeared in to promote the campaign:


It's safe to say that before this Kickstarter wasn't very well known, but basically it's an online company that provides the tools to raise funds for creative projects via crowd funding through its website. When the campaign started on March 13th of this year Thomas hoped to raise 2 million dollars for the film and this was done within ten hours. By the  time the campaign closed on the 12th of April, rasing $5,702,153 from 91,585 backers. The campaign broke several Kickstarter records in the process, including the fastest project to reach first $1 million, then $2 million; the highest minimal pledging goal achieved; and the largest successful film project on Kickstarter and the most backers on a single Kickstarter project. I myself donated $100 and I personally cannot only wait for the movie to come out, but also for all the great gifts I get for helping to fund the project, inckuding a limited edition movie t-shirt, poster and a Blu-Ray/DVD combo pack of the movie that includes the documentary on the making of the film.


It's been just over two months since the campaign ended, and having, as a backer of the film, been kept up-to-date with what's been going on with the pre-production (including casting info, scouting locations etc.) of the film I'm excited to say that the film went into actual production today and the movie has begun filming!

While the reaction to the Kickstarter fad the Veronica Mars Movie undoubtedly started has been mixed (Who is Kickstarter really for?, Why do celebrities need money for backing), it's undeniably an exciting time for not only the future of television, but for the creation of all media in general, and I'm very excited to see what this new era of crowd funding will continue to do in the future.

Monday 17 June 2013

True Blood 6.1 Review: Who Are You, Really?


True Blood has always worked best when its characters are all involved in the plot, and picking up from where last season left off, with the Authority destroyed and Bill's downing of Lillith's blood, provided an action-packed and exciting beginning to the new season. Sookie and the others fled from a crumbling authority, trying as fast as they could to get away from 'Billith', and it was all very suspenseful, until, at least, the group stopped to get their bearings and Jason's new-found and over-the-top hatred for vampires ruined the dynamic.

I love that Bill was able to summon Jessica, and while we didn't really learn anything new about what happened to Bill, the episode was an interesting springboard for the rest of the season. Sookie is ready to stay away from vampires for good, and while viewers have heard that before, her ability to stake Bill, and to rescind her invitation to her house from Eric (quite unexpected), shows she's serious (although I doubt this will last long, she always pulled back in, and she should be, otherwise I imagine her characters story lines would be quite boring). Eric and Nora plan to stop 'Billith' someone, and while Nora has yet to be developed as a character it will be good for the show to have a new dynamic to follow. Similarly, Pam and Tara will have to work on their growing relationship, and while I'm not really interested in them as a couple their link to what is likely to be the larger storyline this season, vampire oppressive Louisiana governor Burrel, in this episode was good. After Jason's aforementioned complaining, he tried to hitchhike back to Bon Temps, unfortunately it was with the vampire that killed his parents Warlow, and while it was obvious, it's good to know the character's finally in play and a big threat, considering he was Lillith's protégé as Nora revealed.

All this aside, True Blood still managed to fit in several unrelated story lines for characters that no one really cares about. Sam and Emma escaped the Authority collapsing, but Luna dies saving her daughters life, so we'll have to wait and see where caring for Emma takes Sam this season. Alcide became pack master and if it wasn't for the poor excuse for poor, it wouldn't have been interesting at all. And in what is already likely to be the worst storyline for the entire season, Andy is having difficulty taken care of his triplets born by fairy. It was just like watching a bad sitcom. But at least, unlike previously bad story lines from True Blood, this one seems to be progressing at a much faster pace, considering that by the end of the episode Andy's baby's were grown up enough to talk.

A solid start to the season, but I'm hesitant that by the end of the episode True Blood has already placed its characters into separate story lines away from one another, and I'm afraid we won't get to see the great dynamic experienced at the beginning of the episode for some time.

Rating: 3.5/5

Sunday 9 June 2013

A Look at The CW's New Dramas (2013-2014)

Reign

The CW's Pitch: Hidden between the lines of the history books is the story of Mary Stuart, the young woman the world would come to know as Mary, Queen of Scots. Queen of Scotland since she was six days old, the teenage Mary is already a headstrong monarch - beautiful, passionate, and poised at the very beginning of her tumultuous rise to power. Arriving in France with four close friends as her ladies-in-waiting, Mary has been sent to secure Scotland’s strategic alliance by formalizing her arranged engagement to the French king's dashing son, Prince Francis. But the match isn't signed and sealed: it depends more on politics, religion and secret agendas than affairs of the heart. Prince Francis is intrigued by the fiery Scot, but like most young men, he resists the idea of settling down into marriage, especially when he has a history with a lady of the court and his own point of view on the wisdom of an alliance with Scotland. Still, an attraction between Mary and Francis is ignited. Further complicating things is Bash, Francis' roguish half-brother, who has a history of his own - despite his illegitimate birth, Bash is his father's favorite. And now that Bash has caught Mary's eye, a royal triangle may be forming. While at French Court, fierce foes and dark forces conspire to sabotage Mary’s marriage to Francis and even threaten her life, until a mysterious shrouded guide becomes her ally. With danger and sexual intrigue around every dark castle corner, Mary rallies her ladies-in-waiting and steels herself, ready to rule the new land and balance the demands of her country and her heart.


My Thoughts: While it remains to be seen how historically accurate the series plans to be, the romantic, political, and supernatural elements of the show make it look quite intriguing. I might watch.

Star-Crossed

The CW's Pitch: When Emery was 6 years old, an alien spacecraft crash-landed in her small town. Whether they came in peace or with more sinister intentions didn’t matter: a fierce battle erupted as humans fought for control over their new rivals, an alien species called the Atrians. In the midst of the conflict, Roman, a 6-year-old Atrian boy, found his way to a shed behind Emery’s house, where she protected him from harm, bringing him food, comfort – and friendship. In their brief time together, Emery and Roman forged a deep bond, but the authorities wasted no time tracking Roman down and capturing him in a violent confrontation. Emery has grown up believing that Roman was killed that day. Ten years later, the Atrians have been acclimated to life on Earth, but they are interned in a heavily-guarded camp known as the Sector to keep them separate from humans. Now, for the first time, a group of Atrian teens will enroll in a suburban human high school, with the goal of testing the feasibility of human/alien integration. The eyes of the nation and the whole world are fixed on this historical social experiment, an endeavor fraught with suspicion and fear. In the mayhem of the first day, Emery is amazed to learn that Roman was not killed by the authorities and is, in fact, one of the Atrian students. Their childhood bond is quickly rekindled – in a school and a society that distrusts everything about the Atrians, Emery and Roman have found each other again. However, their relationship is threatened by the small-mindedness of their respective communities and the political agendas of people in power. While the world around them rages with anger and prejudice, their bond becomes increasingly strong and increasingly dangerous. As an epic Romeo and Juliet romance unfolds, a violent encounter between Roman’s father and Emery’s father occurs in the Sector. Can Roman and Emery’s love – and peace between the species – survive?


My Thoughts: The themes the show expresses are very unsubtle, and the romantic relationship between the two leads, as well as the tension between the humans and the aliens has all been done before. I won't be watching.

The 100

The CW's Pitch: Ninety-seven years ago, nuclear Armageddon decimated planet Earth, destroying civilization. The only survivors were the 400 inhabitants of 12 international space stations that were in orbit at the time. Three generations have been born in space, the survivors now number 4,000, and resources are running out on their dying "Ark" - the 12 stations now linked together and repurposed to keep the survivors alive. Draconian measures including capital punishment and population control are the order of the day, as the leaders of the Ark take ruthless steps to ensure their future, including secretly exiling a group of 100 juvenile prisoners to the Earth's surface to test whether it's habitable. For the first time in nearly a century, humans have returned to planet Earth. Among the 100 exiles are Clarke, the bright teenage daughter of the Ark's chief medical officer; Wells, son of the Ark’s Chancellor; the daredevil Finn; and the brother/sister duo Bellamy and Octavia, whose illegal sibling status has always led them to flaunt the rules. Technologically blind to what’s happening on the planet below them, the Ark’s leaders - Clarke’s widowed mother, Abby; the Chancellor, Jaha; and his shadowy second in command, Kane - are faced with difficult decisions about life, death and the continued existence of the human race. For the 100 young people on Earth, however, the alien planet they’ve never known is a mysterious realm that can be magical one moment and lethal the next. With the survival of the human race entirely in their hands, THE 100 must find a way to transcend their differences, unite and forge a new path on a wildly changed Earth that’s primitive, intense and teeming with the unknown.


My Thoughts: It will be interesting to see where this goes after the pilot. but a large cast, and enough plots should keep it interesting. I'll be watching.

The Originals:

The CW's Pitch: Family is power. The Original Vampire family swore it to each other a thousand years ago. They pledged to remain together, always and forever. Now, centuries have passed and the bonds of family are broken. Time, tragedy and hunger for power have torn the Original Family apart. When Klaus Mikaelson, the original vampire-werewolf hybrid, receives a mysterious tip that a plot is brewing against him in the supernatural melting pot that is the French Quarter of New Orleans, he returns to the city his family helped build. Klaus’ questions lead him to a reunion with his diabolical former protégé, Marcel, a charismatic vampire who has total control over the human and supernatural inhabitants of New Orleans. Determined to help his brother find redemption, Elijah follows Klaus and soon learns that the werewolf Hayley has also come to the French Quarter searching for clues to her family history, and has fallen into the hands of a powerful witch named Sophie. Tensions between the town’s supernatural factions are nearing a breaking point as Marcel commands his devoted followers and rules with absolute power. For Klaus, the thought of answering to his powerful protégé is unthinkable, and he vows to reclaim what was once his – the power, the city and his family. While they wait to see if their sister Rebekah will leave Mystic Falls and join them, Klaus and Elijah form an uneasy alliance with the witches to ensure that New Orleans will be ruled by The Originals once again.


My Thoughts: The feud between the two leads could be interesting, and with the witch and family subplot could have enough to keep it going. I'll be watching.

The Tomorrow People:

The CW's Pitch: They are the next evolutionary leap of mankind, a generation of humans born with paranormal abilities — the Tomorrow People. Stephen Jameson stands at the crossroads between the world we know and the shifting world of the future. Up until a year ago, Stephen was a “normal” teenager — until he began hearing voices and teleporting in his sleep, never knowing where he might wake up. Now, Stephen’s issues have gone far beyond the usual teenage angst, and he is beginning to question his sanity. In desperation, Stephen decides to listen to one of the voices in his head, and it leads him to his first encounter with the Tomorrow People — John, Cara and Russell — a genetically advanced race with the abilities of telekinesis, teleportation and telepathic communication. The Tomorrow People are being hunted down by a paramilitary group of scientists known as Ultra. Led by Dr. Jedikiah Price, Ultra sees the Tomorrow People as a very real existential threat from a rival species, and the outcast group has been forced to hide out in an abandoned subway station just beneath the surface of the human world. Trading in secrets, Jedikiah offers Stephen the chance for a normal life with his family and best friend, Astrid, if he will help in the struggle to isolate and eradicate the Tomorrow People. On the other hand, Cara, John and Russell offer Stephen a different type of family and a home where he truly belongs. Unwilling to turn his back on humanity or the world of the Tomorrow People, Stephen sets out on his own path — a journey that could take him into the shadowy past to uncover the truth about his father’s mysterious disappearance, or into an unknown future with The Tomorrow People.


My Thoughts: The premise is worn, but a serialised show like this always has potential. I might watch.

Saturday 8 June 2013

A Look at NBC's New Comedies (2013-2014)

The Michael J. Fox Show

NBC's Pitch: One of New York's most beloved news anchors, Mike Henry (Michael J. Fox), put his career on hold to spend more time with his family and focus on his health after he was diagnosed with Parkinson's. But now five years later, with the kids busy growing up and Mike growing restless, it just might be time for him to get back to work. Having never wanted Mike to leave in the first place, his old boss Harris Green jumped at the chance to get him back on TV. The trick, as it's always been, was to make Mike think it was his idea. After several - okay, many - failed attempts, Mike's family, anxious to see him out of the house, finally succeeded in getting him to "run into" Green. Now their plan is in motion. He'll be back to juggling home, family and career, just like the old days - only better.


My Thoughts: While heart-warming and boasting a solid cast, unfortunately this looks too painful to watch based on the amount of jokes made at Fox's expense, overall it's a little too self-deprecating.

Sean Saves The World

NBC's Pitch: Sean's a divorced dad who's trying to juggle it all. From his overbearing boss and offbeat employees at work - to his pushy mom and weekends with his teenage daughter at home - handling it all is no easy task. So when Ellie, his 14-year-old bundle of joy, moves in full-time, it's a whole new challenge. From keeping his boss happy, his employees motivated and enduring his mother's tactless "advice" to raising a smart, grounded and healthy kid, it's going to be a growing experience, to say the least. But if anyone can swing it, it's Sean.


My Thoughts: There's not too much going on here, but the cast and the basic plot has potential. I might watch.

Welcome To The Family

NBC's Pitch: After four years of barely getting by in school, Dan and Katrina Yoder are thrilled when their daughter Molly is handed her high school diploma. Now it's off to Arizona State for Molly, and a mid-life renaissance for the Yoders (which includes turning Molly's room into their dream fitness center). At the same time in East LA, Junior Hernandez is delivering his valedictorian address. As the first of his family to go to college (Stanford!), Junior's the pride and joy of parents Miguel and Lisette. But Junior's barely into his speech before he gets an unexpected text: "i'm pregnant." The sender? Miss Molly Yoder. OMG/Dios Mio! When Molly and Junior decide to get hitched, they bring two very different families together in a way they never imagined. Dan and Miguel, who already have a history, do NOT see eye to eye. But more importantly, what about Stanford? Arizona State? Who's going to raise the baby? And oh no - what about the fitness center?! For the sake of their kids (and the one on the way) they'll have to somehow make it all work... like it or not.


My Thoughts: The culture clash of the two families and undoubtedly their ability to grow and learn from each other with also grow old fast. I won't be watching.

A Look at NBC's New Dramas (2013-2014)

The Blacklist

NBC's Pitch: For decades, ex-government agent Raymond "Red" Reddington (James Spader) has been one of the FBI's most wanted fugitives. Brokering shadowy deals for criminals across the globe, Red was known by many as "The Concierge of Crime." Now, he's mysteriously surrendered to the FBI with an explosive offer: he will help catch a long-thought-dead terrorist, Ranko Zamani, under the condition that he speaks only to Elizabeth "Liz" Keen, an FBI profiler fresh out of Quantico. For Liz, it's going to be one hell of a first day on the job. What follows is a twisting series of events as the race to stop a terrorist begins. What are Red's true intentions? Why has he chosen Liz, a woman with whom he seemingly has no connection? Does Liz have secrets of her own?


My Thoughts: Spader makes for a great lead, and the plot seems fast-paced and exciting. I think I'll watch.

Dracula

NBC's Pitch: It's the late 19th century, and the mysterious Dracula has arrived in London, posing as an American entrepreneur who wants to bring modern science to Victorian society. He's especially interested in the new technology of electricity, which promises to brighten the night - useful for someone who avoids the sun. But he has another reason for his travels: he hopes to take revenge on those who cursed him with immortality centuries earlier. Everything seems to be going according to plan... until he becomes infatuated with a woman who appears to be a reincarnation of his dead wife.


My Thoughts: The title, setting, and even the story are uninspired. I don't think I'll be watching.

Ironside

NBC's Pitch: In the gritty world of the NYPD, no one's tougher than Detective Robert Ironside. He's a fearless cop who won't stop until the guilty are brought to justice. He and his trusted, handpicked team of specialists will do whatever it takes to solve New York's most difficult and notorious crimes - even if it means breaking the rules. Tough, sexy and acerbic, Ironside's never been afraid to call it like he sees it. As a detective, his instincts are second to none, and those around him have to stay on their toes if they want to keep up... because when his spine was shattered by a bullet two years ago, Ironside swore he'd never let a damn wheelchair slow him down.


My Thoughts: Ironside doesn't seem very likable, and it just seems like a standard procedural. I won't be watching.

A Look At Fox's New Comedies (2013-2014)

Brooklyn Nine-Nine

Fox's Pitch: From Emmy Award-winning writer/producers Dan Goor and Michael Schur ("Parks and Recreation"), and starring Emmy Award winners Andy Samberg ("Saturday Night Live") and Andre Braugher ("Men of a Certain Age," "Homicide: Life on the Street"), Brooklyn Nine Nine is a new single-camera ensemble comedy about what happens when a talented, but carefree, detective gets a new captain with a lot to prove. Detective Jake Peral (Samberg) is a good enough cop that he's never had to work that hard or follow the rules too closely. Perhaps because he has the best arrest record among his colleagues, he's been enabled - if not indulged - throughout his entire career. That is, until the precinct gets a new commanding officer, Captain Ray Holt (Braugher), who reminds this hotshot cop to respect the badge. Together, these tightly knit - or is it tightly wound? - cops interrogate suspects, arrest perps and solve murders. But, ultimately, Brooklyn Nine-Nine is a workplace comedy that's not really about the job. It's about the men and women behind the badge - singing karaoke, grabbing a beer and hitting on each other - all while protecting the fine people of Brooklyn.


My Thoughts: This has a good vibe, from a strong ensemble cast. I might watch.

Dads

Fox's Pitch: Honour thy father. Way easier said than done. Especially when your dad's broke, living in your house and ruining your life. From Seth MacFarlane, Alec Sulkin and Wellesley Wild, the creatively outrageous minds behind last year's highest-grossing feature comedy, "Ted," and FOX's hit animated series Family Guy, Dads explores the often treacherous terrain of the father-son landscape. This new multi-camera comedy series follows two successful guys - and childhood best friends - now in their mid-30s whose relatively stable lives get turned upside down when their pain-in-the-neck patriarchs move in. The invasion of the Dads will give these friends and business partners their biggest challenge yet. Between dubious schemes, passive-aggressive busy-bodying and light kissing-on-the-lips, will these beleaguered sons be able to hold the line in the face of two massive game-changers?


My Thoughts: The premise seems a bit tired, and the characters un-relatable. I won't be watching.

Enlisted

Fox's Pitch: Three brothers, one Army, but absolutely no fighting! Enlisted is an irreverent but heartfelt single-camera comedy about three brothers on a small Florida Army base and the group of misfits who surround them. Charming, funny and a natural-born leader, Sergeant Pete Hill (Geoff Stults, "Ben and Kate," "The Finder") was on a path for a huge military career until one mistake overseas got him booted stateside to Fort McGee, the base in Florida where his two younger brothers are stationed. Now, as head of their platoon, Pete must serve both as big brother and military boss. Corporal Derrick Hill (Chris Lowell, "Private Practice," "Veronica Mars") is the middle brother - smart and sarcastic, he likes to stir up trouble and doesn't really care about being a soldier. Private Randy Hill (Parker Young, "Suburgatory"), on the other hand, loves it. He's the hyper-enthusiastic, hyper-goofy - just hyper - youngest brother who wants to be the gung-ho "GI Joe" military ideal. A military-set family comedy, Enlisted centers on three brothers who, when the best of the best are sent overseas, stay behind to try to keep the base in order. Between hijacking tanks, inventing new drinking games and accidentally blowing up a fuel truck, they will inadvertently discover the key to strengthening their long-lost childhood bonds.


My Thoughts: The basis for the show is very weak, but it could work welled if presented as an ensemble comedy. I won't be watching.

Us & Them

Fox's Pitch: When two people finally come together, they never come together alone. Us & Them is an outrageous but authentic ensemble single-camera comedy about a pair of young lovers, whose path to happily-ever-after is complicated by the screwed-up circus of people closest to them. New York pharmaceutical copywriter Gavin (Emmy Award nominee Jason Ritter, “Parenthood,” “The Event”) is a neurotic Woody Allen-ish personality with indie-rock looks, who has never been in love. On the other hand, pretty Pennsylvania-based printing press employee Stacey (Alexis Bledel, “Mad Men,” “Gilmore Girls”) has a subtle wit and has been engaged before. For the past six months, they have been flirting online and finally agree to meet…with their best friends in tow for double-date safety. When all of these characters collide to create a salty but sweet romantic comedy, we wonder not if the two leads will get together, but how they ever will stay together. After all, it’s complicated enough trying to make a relationship work. But the biggest complications of all are the friends and family who are part of the package deal.


My Thoughts: A strong cast with a heart-warming romance, but it comes off as a little too cutesy for my taste.

A Look at Fox's New Dramas (2013-2014)

Almost Human

Fox's Pitch: From Emmy Award-winning executive producer J.J. Abrams ("Fringe," "Lost," the "Star Trek" and "Mission: Impossible" franchises) and creator/executive producer J.H. Wyman ("Fringe," "The Mexican"), comes Almost Human. Starring Karl Urban ("Star Trek") and Michael Ealy ("Sleeper Cell," "Common Law"), the new series is an action-packed police drama set 35 years in the future, when police officers are partnered with highly evolved human-like androids. Almost Human will follow the week-to-week missions of John and Dorian, as they fight crime across this futuristic landscape, while the mysteries surrounding his attack and the larger mythology of this new world unfold.
   

My Thoughts: It remains to be seen whether this show will have more procedural or serialised aspects, but the concept, setting, and action are intriguing. I'll be watching.

Rake

Fox's Pitch: Rake, a character-driven drama based on the Australian nominee for Best Television Drama series of the same name, follows the comedic and chaotic life of criminal defense lawyer Keegan Deane (Academy Award nominee and Emmy Award winner Greg Kinnear, “Little Miss Sunshine,” “The Kennedys”). His staggering lack of discretion and inability to self-censor land him the cases that nobody else will touch, but behind that lies a resolute optimism and belief in justice that fuel his dogged determination to defend those who seem beyond redemption. He always tries to do the right thing, but at the same time struggles to save himself from the many self-destructive elements that plague his own life, such as his overindulgence of various excesses, including women and gambling. Each morning, Keegan tends to wake up bruised – physically, emotionally, spiritually. Usually it’s a combination of them all. Then it’s out into the world – onto the battleground of Keegan’s day.


My Thoughts: Rake doesn't seem particularly relatable, but there's enough going on plot wise to keep things interesting. I won't be watching.

Sleepy Hollow

Fox's Pitch: What if you suddenly woke up from the throes of death 250 years in the future to find the world is on the brink of destruction, caused by unimaginable events, and you are humanity's last hope? Welcome to Sleepy Hollow, the thrilling new mystery-adventure drama from co-creators/executive producers Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci ("Star Trek" and "Transformers" franchises, "Fringe"). In this modern-day retelling of Washington Irving's classic, Ichabod Crane (Tom Mison, "Salmon Fishing in the Yemen") is resurrected and pulled two and a half centuries through time to unravel a mystery that dates all the way back to the founding fathers. Revived alongside Ichabod is the infamous Headless Horseman who is on a murderous rampage in present-day Sleepy Hollow. As history repeats itself, the oddly-linked pair will draw on the real stories and hallowed secrets this nation was founded on in their quest to stop an increasingly vicious cycle of evil.


My Thoughts: A very interesting premise, although Ichabod's lack of cultural knowledge will get very tiring. I might watch.



Thursday 6 June 2013

A Look At CBS's New Comedies (2013-2014)

The Crazy Ones

CBS's Pitch: Oscar®-winner Robin Williams heads a powerful advertising agency with the biggest clients and brands in the world. The office is staffed with an eclectic group intent on keeping his antics in check, including his daughter, who often questions her father's sanity while trying to make a name for herself in the advertising world.  


My Thoughts: It has a strong cast, but Williams' brand of humour is very specific, and Sarah Michelle Gellar seems wasted as the straight one. I might watch.

The Millers

CBS's Pitch: Will Arnett stars in this comedy about a recently divorced local news reporter who is looking forward to living the single life again. That is, until his parents' marital problems derail his plans for a freewheeling bachelorhood.    


My Thoughts: An interesting twist to the normal family dynamic you see in sitcoms, and a solid cast too. I won't be watching.

Mom

CBS's Pitch: Newly sober single mom Christy struggles to raise two children in a world full of temptations and pitfalls. Testing her sobriety is her formerly estranged mother, now back in Christy's life and eager to share passive-aggressive insights into her daughter's many mistakes.    


My Thoughts: Looks like another strong comedy from Chuck Lorre. I might watch.

We Are Men

CBS's Pitch: Starting over has never been so funny when, left at the altar, Carter moves into a short-term rental complex until he can put his life back together. He finds camaraderie there with three men who, combined, are six-time losers in the marriage department.    


My Thoughts: The premise isn't really appealing, and the characters unrelatable, despite the star power.

A Look At CBS's New Dramas (2013-2014)

Hostages

CBS's Pitch: From executive producer Jerry Bruckheimer comes a high-octane thriller about a family taken hostage in their own home. Toni Collette stars as a surgeon caught in the middle of a grand political conspiracy, who is ordered to assassinate the President of the United States in order to save her family. Dylan McDermott stars as the lead hostage taker compelled to do the wrong thing for the right reasons in this taut drama filled with unexpected twists and turns.


My Thoughts: Boasts a strong, nice narrative twists, and has lots of dramatic tension, but I question the plots longevity. I probably won't be watching.

Intelligence

CBS's Pitch: Josh Holloway stars as former Delta Force turned U.S. Cyber Command über-agent in a crime thriller that explores the unlimited possibilities of technology. With a special microchip implanted in his brain, he has become the first super computer with a beating heart.


My Thoughts: The leads have great chemistry, and there looks to be a solid mix of both procedural and serialised storytelling elements. I might watch.

USA Is Not Interested In Happy Endings

You'd look like this too if your show had just been cancelled.

Back in April Sony TV, the leading studio behind ABC's beloved yet low rated comedy Happy Endings, starting exploring the possibility of another studio network picking up the series for a fourth season if ABC did not decide to renew it. The USA network were of particular interest, wanting to branch out with adding some half-hour comedies to their programming. Having acquired the off-network comedy Modern Family, USA were said to be looking for an orignal comedy to pair with the series. And Happy Endings seemed like a logcial move, it aired behind Modern Family on ABC for two seasons, and did reasonably well in the ratings before it was moved to form a comedy block with the now also cancelled Don’t Trust The B—- At Apt. 23.

In mid-May, ABC did what most people thought they would, cancelled their beloved yet low rated comedy Happy Endings. And last Saturday it was announced that USA had opted not to pick up the show for a fourth season. Although the show was seen as doing well creatively by the cable network, its low ratings on ABC meant that it would involve a large investment in marketing and promotion by USA, and having just ordered two of their own comedy pilots, Sirens and Playing House, thought the money would be better spent on developing them.

Fans are still convinced that there is a home for Happy Endings someone though. Last year another beloved yet low rated comedy series on ABC, Cougar Town, which was also in its third season, was cancelled only to be picked up by TBS, where it has proven successful and earned itself a fifth season, and many think TBS should do the same for Happy Endings. Then's there's the online television streaming services as well. Netflix just debuted a fourth season of critical darling Arrested Development, which was cancelled by Fox eight years ago, and despite mixed reviews, has received a lot of buzz. There's also Amazon, who just ordered two comedy pilots, Alpha House and Betas, as apart of their first attempt at original programming.

There are basically any number of possible networks that could renew Happy Endings, but in my opnion, the show best bet for the show to continue was always on ABC. It's a shame that the news of USA's possible acquistion of the show was discovered before it was even cancelled. I would imagine fans would have fought harder for the show if it hadn't, but instead it seemed many were complacement to the idea that USA would pick it, and that that would be that. Do I hear a Kickstarter anyone? Insert-not-really-witty-comment-here-because-every-single-writer-does-it-relating-to-the-title-of-the-show-and-it's-newfound-irony.

Tuesday 4 June 2013

Matt Smith Is Leaving Doctor Who

Matt Smith in my favourite episode from his time as the Doctor, 'The Rebel Flesh'.

On Saturday it was announced that Matt Smith will be stepping down from the role of the Doctor, and that his character will regenerate in the 2013 Christmas special. This means that Smith's incarnation of the Time Lord will grace our screens for only another two episodes; alongside his predecessor David Tennant in the upcoming 50th anniversary special, and departing in the Christmas special.

Smith took over the role from Tennant back in 2010 and will have appeared in 44 episodes by the time he leaves. While Smith's Doctor was initially the cause of some backlash from Who fans, replacing Tennant's shoes, who has arguably been the best Doctor since the shows revival, and the fact that he is the youngest actor to play the titular role, a role which is considered by many that needs to be played by an older actor that can express 'experience', didn't do him any favours. Despite this many have grown attached to Smith's youthful, kooky and charming Doctor, his fondness for Fez's and bow ties, as well as his catch phrase, 'Genorimo!'.

I'm both happy and hesitant about this news at the same time. Happy because this past season, and majority of Smith's years, haven't been that good, but the great thing about Doctor Who's longevity is that it is able to bring in fresh blood and try and see if something different works, which the writers have the opportunity to do here.

That being said, I'm hesitant because Doctor Who does change so often it seems the writers have difficulty finding a rhythm between characters before either the Doctor or the assistant(s) are replaced, basically disregarding all the hard work they've done to try and make it work.

I thought the first six episodes of the shows sixth season were great, which I was surprised about because I thought I hated Amy and Rory, but I think the cast and the writers got to a point were everything gelled together really nicely. And then there was the introduction of the ridiculously long mid-season break. And then the flow was lost. And season six finished and it hadn't really come back. And season seven started, and it felt as if the writers stopped caring about it in anticipation for the arrival of the next new assistant Clara. As a character she hasn't really worked for me either, but again, the writers don't need to mind about making her work with Smith's Doctor because now there's going to be a new one.

Overall, since Tennant left, I just find the start/ stop pacing of Doctor Who very frustrating. Let's hope whoever they bring in can recapture the magic, and stay tuned for the 50th anniversary of Doctor Who, airing November 2013.

About that SPOILER! That Happened To SPOILER! On Last Night's SPOILER!

If you think what Walder Frey did over a broken oath was bad, imagine what he'd do to you if you spoiled his favourite television show.
Okay so here's your obligatory stop-reading-right-this-instant-if-you-are-not-up-to-date-with-your-favourite-television-show-because-in-this-article-I-will-be-discussing-the-shows-tagged-and-therefore-there-will-be-SPOILERS! But if you're anything like me you'll probably just ignore this warning and go right ahead anyway, unaware that seconds from now your bad decision will spoil a television show that you watch, which is exactly what happened to me with Game of Thrones last night.

As anyone with access to the Internet probably knows by now HBO's Game of Thrones went and killed off two major characters is a very unceremonious way. And it made for great television. It was the emotionally shocking stuff I love to watch. But I can't help but feel that what happened might have had an even stronger resonance with myself, and many others who have voiced their dismay at being spoiled, if we'd stayed away from our computers before watching the episode.

Personally, I have no one to blame but myself. I frequently visit television news sites based in the US (being fully aware that I usually won't get to see shows that air until a couple of hours later), and even non-descript article titles like 'Game of Thrones Shocker', at which point I should have closed my web browser, didn't deter me. And so it came to be that I found an article titled 'Game of Thrones showrunners interview: The Red Wedding -- EXCLUSIVE', which was accompanied with this picture and the caption below it:
 
RedWedding.jpg
Game of Thrones just depicted one of the most disturbing death scenes in TV history: The graphic massacre of noble young rebellion leader Robb Stark...
And of course, that's where, like Robb, I was completely blindsided, and also like Robb's death, I was partially responsible for what occurred. Although I'm glad I did remain partially unscathed... I didn't know Talisa, her unborn child, and Catelyn were doing to die, so that's something. Regardless, let's just say I got off easy. I've already heard of several accounts of people finding over through Facebook, and promptly deleting whoever spoiled them over the incident.

I think it's safe to say this won't be the first or last time viewers are spoiled of a major death on television. I, of course, have done this before. I found out about Jimmy Darmody's death on the season two final of Boardwalk Empire while still trying to catch up with the show. Likewise, by the time I started watching Dexter I already knew Trinity would kill Rita in the season four final, in fact, finding out might been the catalyst for me to start watching the show.

But it's not only the Internet culpable of spoiling such things, television is such a large industry that even those involved can't keep everything hidden from the press to stop the fans from being spoiled. Leading up to The O.C.'s third season final rumours were rife that a major character was being killed off. Creator and writer Josh Schwartz even circulated the red-herring that the show's family patriarch, Sandy Cohen, was dying, only to have actress Mischa Barton, who played Marissa Cooper, reveal several days before the show's final that she had left, and that her character was being killed off. Similarly, during a wrongful termination lawsuit actress Nicolette Sheridan served Marc Cherry in regards to her departure from the show Desperate Housewives, Cherry was asked to prove that other major characters, like Sheridan's Edie, had being killed off of the show before, and that her exit wasn't a personal attack on Sheridan. Cherry responded that they were killing off Mike Delfino, the husband of one of the housewives, several weeks before the episode aired, spoiling the shock for fans.

 
As you can see, there's no way to avoid spoilers, and Game of Thrones is even more hazardous for spoilers because it's based of George R.R. Martin book series A Song of Ice and Fire. In fact the brutal scenes depicted in The Rains of Castamere occurred in book three of the series, which was released late 2000. And unlike with the Harry Potter series, in which I was forever immune to discovering the death of Sirius or Dumblemore as I read the books within the first couple of days of their release, I don't as yet have the luxury of staying unspoiled with Game of Thrones. So the best I can do in this case is to in fact get started, or should I say, continue, reading the novels as to be certain that this doesn't occur again. Ironically I'm only three-quarters of the way through book one, I'm up to the chapter in which Robb and Catelyn first arrive at The Twins to meet with Walder Frey. I wonder what will come from that? Wait, wait... don't tell me, I don't want to be spoiled.

Monday 3 June 2013

A Look At ABC's New Comedies (2013-2014)

Back In The Game

ABC's Pitch: Terry Gannon Jr. (Maggie Lawson) was an All Star softball player until life threw her a couple curve balls: a baby, a lost college scholarship and a loser for a husband. After striking out on her own, Terry and her son Danny (Griffin Gluck) move in with her estranged father, Terry Sr. aka “The Cannon” (James Caan). The Cannon is an opinionated, beer-guzzling, ex-athlete who never quite made the cut as a single father or professional baseball player. As hard as Terry tries to keep Danny away from the sports-driven lifestyle of her youth, Tommy wants to play Little League. His stunning lack of baseball skills (he doesn’t even know which hand the mitt goes on) makes him the laughing stock of the baseball field and his grandfather’s living room. When Danny and a group of other athletically-challenged hopefuls fail to make the team, Danny’s disappointment forces Terry to face her past. So when a wealthy neighbor volunteers to finance a team for the rejected kids, Terry reluctantly offers to coach the team of misfits.


My Thoughts: Looks to have a fun family dynamic, and the overall story is uplifting, plus it could be a strong ensemble if the child characters are used properly. Not sure if I'll be watching or not.


The Goldbergs

ABC's Pitch: Before there were parenting blogs, trophies for showing up, and peanut allergies, there was a simpler time called the ‘80s. For geeky 11-year old Adam (Sean Giambrone) these were his wonder years and he faced them armed with a video camera to capture all the crazy. The Goldbergs are a loving family like any other, just with a lot more yelling. Mom Beverly (Wendi McClendon-Covey) is a classic “smother;” an overbearing, overprotective matriarch who rules this brood with 100% authority and zero sense of boundaries. Dad Murray (Jeff Garlin) is gruff, hot-tempered and trying to parent without screaming. Sister Erica (Hayley Orrantia) is 17, hot, terrifying and not one to mess with. Barry (Troy Gentile) is 16, with classic middle child syndrome. Adam (Sam Giambrone) is the youngest, a camera-wielding future director who’s crushing on an older woman. Rounding out the family is beloved grandfather Al “Pops” Solomon (George Segal), the wild man of the clan, a shameless Don Juan who’s schooling Adam in the ways of love. When Pops buys a new sports car and offers his Caddy to middle child Barry, it’s enough to drive this already high-strung family to the brink of chaos.


My Thoughts: It's interesting to not only have one, but two gimmicks in the vise of the 80's setting and the found camera footage. The family looks relatable enough, but also quite generic if took away everything else. I won't be watching.


Mixology

ABC's Pitch: One bar. One night. Ten single people. Welcome to Union, a high-end bar in Manhattan’s trendy meat-packing district. Recently dumped by his fiancé, Tom (Blake Lee) hasn’t been out on the town in a decade. His best friends, handsome, confident Cal (Craig Frank) and fast-talking Bruce (Andrew Santino), are throwing Tom back into the dating pool whether he likes it or not. Tom’s first encounter is with Maya (Ginger Gonzaga), an attorney who’s as beautiful as she is brutal. Before long, Tom is in tears. After that, it only gets worse. Rounding out Union’s chic crowd is Maya’s engaged-for-now friend Liv (Kate Simses); aggressive single mom Jessica (Alexis Carra); her younger, naive sister Janey (Sarah Bolger); bubbly cocktail waitress Kacey (Vanessa Lengies); dark, mysterious bartender Dominic (Adan Canto); and failed internet entrepreneur Ron (Adam Campbell), who’s having the worst night of his life.


My Thoughts: I foind the conept very intriguing, and a larger ensemble provides the oppurtunity for several compelling storylines. I'll think I'll watch.


Super Fun Night

ABC's Pitch: Junior attorney Kimmie Boubier (Rebel Wilson) and her two best friends Helen-Alice (Liza Lapira) and Marika (Lauren Ash) have had a standing date every Friday night for the last 13 years. They even have a motto for what they call “Friday Night Fun Night”: “Always together! Always Inside!” However, Kimmie’s recent promotion throws a monkey wrench into the tradition. Not only is she now working with her idol, “Lady Lawyer of the Year” Felicity Vanderstone (Kelen Coleman), but she meets a dashingly handsome British attorney, Richard Lovell (Kevin Bishop), who invites her to his party at a trendy club. Determined to spend time with Richard and heed Felicity’s advice to network, Kimmie sets out to convince her friends to take Super Fun Night on the road.


My Thoughts: I'm glad to see that Australian actress Rebel Wilson is doing so well for herlself, but her style of comedy is possibly more suited to a scene-stealing secondary character, not a main one. I won't be watching.


Trophy Wife

ABC's Pitch: They say the third time’s the charm and reformed party girl Kate (Malin Akerman) is hoping that’s true when she becomes Pete’s (Bradley Whitford) third wife. She fell into his arms (literally) at a karaoke bar and a year later, Kate’s got an insta-family complete with three stepchildren and two ex-wives. Diane (Marcia Gay Harden) is ex-wife number one, an intense, over-achieving doctor and the mother of twin teenagers Hillary (Gianna LePera) and Warren (Ryan Scott Lee). Diane is quick to convey her withering disapproval of Kate’s barely tapped maternal instinct. Ex-wife number two, Jackie (Michaela Watkins), is mother to adopted son, Bert (Albert Tsai), and can pull Pete’s strings with her special blend of neurotic, new-ageyness. Juggling all this baggage is uncharted territory for Kate who finds support with her best friend Meg (Natalie Morales) a party-hearty singleton and the only woman Kate knows who has less experience with kids than she has.


My Thoughts: Again, an imteresting family dyanmic for sure, but it's hard to say what is usually a stereotypical character having a whole show based around her will actually be like. I won't be watching.

Sunday 2 June 2013

A Look At ABC's New Dramas (2013-2014)

Betrayal

ABC's Pitch: A chance meeting leads photographer Sara Hadley (Hannah Ware) and Attorney Jack McAllister (Stuart Townsend) to an undeniable instant attraction. Sara’s husband, Drew (Chris Johnson), is a successful prosecutor with political aspirations. Jack is married to Elaine (Wendy Moniz) the daughter of his boss Thacher Karsten (James Cromwell). When Karsten’s brother-in-law Lou is murdered, all evidence points to Karsten’s son T.J. (Henry Thomas). Jack, the company’s lead council, will have to defend him. For Sara’s prosecutor husband Drew, this is the kind of high-profile murder case that can secure his political future. Just as Sara and Jack’s affair is starting, the lovers will find themselves in an impossible situation—on opposite sides of a murder investigation.

 
My Thoughts: This seems like a relationship drama based around a very thin concept, so the shows actual plot will need to be a lot more compelling. I don't think I'll be watching.


Killer Women

ABC's Pitch: Of all the notorious lawmen who ever patrolled the violent Texas frontier, none are more storied than the Texas Rangers. Being the only female ranger in this elite squad isn’t going to stop ballsy, badass Molly Parker (Tricia Helfer). Molly is committed to finding the truth and seeing justice served. While she’s surrounded by law enforcement colleagues who want to see her fail, including Police Lieutenant Estaban Salazar (Vic Trevino), the Rangers have her back, led by Company Commander Luis Zea (Alex Fernandez). Molly’s also got her brother Billy (Michael Trucco) and his wife Nessa (Marta Milans). On the verge of getting divorced from her smarmy husband Jake (Jeffrey Nordling), Molly begins an affair with sexy DEA agent, Dan Winston (Marc Blucas).


My Thoughts: While action-packed, a female lead trying to break into a traditionally male field is a used formula and could make for painful viewing. I won't be watching.


Lucky 7

ABC's Pitch: In Astoria, Queens, a group of seven gas station employees have been chipping into a lottery pool for months, never thinking they’d actually win. Money could solve problems for each of them. Matt (Matt Long) could get his girlfriend and two kids out of his mother’s house. Matt’s brother Nicky (Stephen Louis Grush), an ex-con, could pay off a dangerous debt. Samira (Summer Bishil), a second-generation Pakistani immigrant, could afford to go to Juilliard. Denise (Lorraine Bruce), a plucky cashier, could focus on rebuilding her crumbling marriage. Leanne (Anastasia Phillips), a young mother, could help her daughter realize her dreams. Bob (Isiah Whitlock, Jr.), the store’s manager, could finally retire, and Antonio (Luis Antonio Ramos) could give his wife and kids a whole new life.


My Thoughts: The show has an interesting premise, and plenty of characters to use for storyline potential, but it remains to be seen where the show will try and go after the pilot. I won't be watching.


Marvel's Agents of SHIELD

ABC's Pitch: Clark Gregg reprises his role of Agent Phil Coulson from Marvel’s feature films, as he assembles a small, highly select group of Agents from the worldwide law-enforcement organization known as S.H.I.E.L.D. Together they investigate the new, the strange, and the unknown across the globe, protecting the ordinary from the extraordinary. Coulson's team consists of Agent Grant Ward (Brett Dalton), highly trained in combat and espionage; Agent Melinda May (Ming-Na Wen), expert pilot and martial artist; Agent Leo Fitz (Iain De Caestecker), brilliant engineer; and Agent Jemma Simmons (Elizabeth Henstridge), genius bio-chemist. Joining them on their journey into mystery is new recruit and computer hacker, Skye (Chloe Bennet).


My Thoughts: Definitely has an exciting universe to explore, is action heavy, funny, and has a strong ensemble cast. I will be watching.


Mind Games

ABC's Pitch: Clark (Steve Zahn) and Ross (Christian Slater) Edwards are brothers and partners in a unique agency committed to solving clients’ problems using the hard science of psychological manipulation. Clark is a former professor and a world-renowned expert in the field of human behavior. He has a checkered history due to bipolar disorder, which sometimes results in quirky, manic episodes. His older brother Ross is a slick con man who spent time in prison. Each in their own way knows what makes people tick. Drawing from the most cutting edge research in psychology, they can a tailor a plan to influence any situation. It’s a little bit science, a little bit con artistry plus a smattering of Jedi mind tricks. The brothers, along with their team of master manipulators are offering clients an alternative to fate.


My Thoughts: It's seems like a fun, heartwarming show, but the premise is very far-fetched. I won't be watching.


Once Upon A Time In Wonderland

ABC's Pitch: In Victorian England, the young and beautiful Alice (Sophie Lowe) tells a tale of a strange new land that exists on the other side of a rabbit hole. An invisible cat, a hookah smoking caterpillar and playing cards that talk are just some of the fantastic things she’s seen during this impossible adventure. Surely this troubled girl must be insane and her doctors aim to cure her with a treatment that will make her forget everything. Alice seems ready to put it all behind her, especially the painful memory of the genie she fell in love with and lost forever—the handsome and mysterious Cyrus (Peter Gadiot). But deep down Alice knows this world is real and just in the nick of time, the sardonic Knave of Hearts (Michael Socha) and the irrepressible White Rabbit (John Lithgow) arrive to save her from a doomed fate. Together, the trio will take a tumble down the rabbit hole to this Wonderland where nothing is impossible.


My Thoughts: Although it's visually pleasing, it's hard to see where the show will go other than on an expansive and drawn out journey. I won't be watching.


Ressurrection

ABC's Pitch: The people of Arcadia, Missouri are forever changed when their deceased loved ones suddenly start to return. An 8-year-old American boy (Landon Gimenez) wakes up alone in a rice paddy in a rural Chinese province with no idea how he got there. Details start to emerge when the boy, who calls himself Jacob, recalls that his hometown is Arcadia and an immigration agent, Martin Bellamy (Omar Epps), takes him there. The home he claims as his own is occupied by an elderly couple, Harold (Kurtwood Smith) and Lucille Garland (Frances Fisher), who lost their son Jacob more than 30 years ago. While they look different, young Jacob recognizes them as his parents. Those closest to the family try to unravel this impossible mystery, including Sheriff Fred Garland (Matt Craven) whose wife Barbara drowned 30 years ago trying to save Jacob. But this boy who claims to be the deceased Jacob knows secrets about his own death that no one else knows—secrets that Fred’s daughter Gail (Devin Kelly) will begin to investigate and discover to be true.


My Thoughts: An intriguing premise, it'll be interesting to see how well the story can be prolonged though. I'll be watching.