Yet Another Cycling Forum

Off Topic => The Pub => Arts and Entertainment => Topic started by: Domestique on 27 December, 2011, 06:34:34 pm

Title: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Domestique on 27 December, 2011, 06:34:34 pm
I have given up looking at the tv guide and asking here instead
What is worth watching tonight  :-\
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 27 December, 2011, 06:37:55 pm
RI CHristmas lectures. 8pm
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Domestique on 27 December, 2011, 07:04:49 pm
Just finished watching Coal on Discovery, may well be tuning into that DM. Read someones mind from 100 miles away  :o
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Wonky on 27 December, 2011, 07:30:01 pm
TY DM. I always miss the first one every year. Series linked.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: redshift on 27 December, 2011, 07:33:51 pm
If you're a fan of the Griff/Rory/Dara Three Men stuff, they're in New England tonight and tomorrow.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Domestique on 27 December, 2011, 09:19:44 pm
DM and rs many thanks  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 28 December, 2011, 10:38:24 am
Missed it - went out on the bike instead. Doesn't help that the remote control for the digibox went missing..
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Domestique on 28 December, 2011, 05:13:39 pm
Tonights a bit better.
Top Gear, Countryfile, Sir Jimmy Saville at the bbc, Jon Snows 2011, Add of the year
Thank goodness for V+  :thumbsup:

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 28 December, 2011, 05:40:45 pm
Tonights a bit better.
Top Gear, Countryfile, Sir Jimmy Saville at the bbc, Jon Snows 2011, Add of the year

OK, that's the stuff to miss, what's the stuff that makes it a bit better? ;)

We didn't see Great Expectations last night but the noises on Twitter were mostly favourable (and from people whose opinions I trust - YMMV). We've recorded it and will watch it later, along with the second part.

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: JohnP on 28 December, 2011, 05:50:24 pm
Tonights a bit better.
Top Gear, Countryfile,

... and Three Men etc part 2.

Thursday 1st of new earth flight series looks as though it could be interesting.  Probably be spoilt by those who belived the cameraman really had his own wings and flew.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rogerzilla on 28 December, 2011, 05:52:44 pm
When "Countryfile" is the best thing on TV, you know it's not worth paying the licence fee any more.  It used to be Sunday lunchtime schedule-filler, watched only by farmers and hungover students who were fearful of stretching for the remote control, lest they yawn technicolorifically.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: andygates on 28 December, 2011, 05:53:05 pm
World's Strongest Man on Five, 8pm, if you prefer brawn to brain. 
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Domestique on 28 December, 2011, 07:58:44 pm
The Jim'll fix it prog. What an ace he was  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Peter on 29 December, 2011, 12:33:51 am
Tonights a bit better.
Top Gear, Countryfile, Sir Jimmy Saville at the bbc, Jon Snows 2011, Add of the year

OK, that's the stuff to miss, what's the stuff that makes it a bit better? ;)

We didn't see Great Expectations last night but the noises on Twitter were mostly favourable (and from people whose opinions I trust - YMMV). We've recorded it and will watch it later, along with the second part.

d.

d. I'm not sure if you should be holding your breath.  I caught a bit of it and I'm uneasy about a hero who is prettier and appears to have more collagen in his lips and more lipstick and eye make-up than the girl.  It looks like a good production but Pip is just too distracting - I keep waiting for his face to fall off!
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 29 December, 2011, 08:11:23 am
He certainly is a very pretty young man, isn't he. Estella looks rather plain in comparison.

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Domestique on 29 December, 2011, 08:54:35 am
I didnt see it all as it was on to late for me, but that Ben Elton program on 80's comedy looked quite good. Might see if I can watch that on catch up.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 29 December, 2011, 09:29:11 am
Celebrity Mastermind.  OJ Borg dressed as Princess Leia :o

What is a Stacey Solomon (apart from a breathtaking thick-o)?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: JohnP on 29 December, 2011, 09:54:04 am
i'll leave you to google for yourself but I loved her reply to "What breed of dog includes Cocker and Springer?"  After much "brain" searching whispered "Cockerpoo?"
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rower40 on 29 December, 2011, 01:14:58 pm
+1 for Great Expectations.  Watching it now on i-Player.

Gillian Anderson looks great in a wedding dress.

It's rumoured that Ray Winstone was only second choice for Magwitch, but Julian Clary was busy.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mike on 29 December, 2011, 09:03:04 pm
dorian gray - on C4 right now.  Good film of probably my favorite book!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Domestique on 29 December, 2011, 09:09:37 pm
dorian gray - on C4 right now.  Good film of probably my favorite book!

Have that on the V+  :thumbsup:
QI at the mo
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rower40 on 03 January, 2012, 08:28:06 pm
Sky Arts 2.  8pm to 10pm all this week: Gilbert- & Sullivan-fest
Tonight (Tues): HMS Pinafore and Trial By Jury
Wed: The Pirates of Penzance
Thurs: Patience
Fri: The Mikado (as produced by Jonathan Miller)

The TIVO box will get its first use, as I'll be in Sunny Didcot towards the end of the week.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 03 January, 2012, 08:38:00 pm
What is a Stacey Solomon (apart from a breathtaking thick-o)?
She did very well on X Factor a couple of years ago. I can't remember if she won, but she was top three. Simon Cowell described her as a singing candle.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 04 January, 2012, 09:48:59 am
What is a Stacey Solomon (apart from a breathtaking thick-o)?
She did very well on X Factor a couple of years ago. I can't remember if she won, but she was top three. Simon Cowell described her as a singing candle.

And in the breathtaking thick-o stakes may I present Michel Roux Jr, answering questions on l'Escoffier.  He runs Le Gavroche, which has two Michelin stars.  My idea of cookery is to microwave a Sainsbury's curry.  I got more questions right on his specialised subject than he did.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 04 January, 2012, 10:45:59 am
From what I've seen, very few of the celebs have done all that well, so it's a bit harsh to pick on Stacey Solomon.

You've also got to take into account that performance on quizzes is not so much a measure of intelligence as a measure of ability to recall trivia under pressure. Clive Sinclair came last on the episode he appeared in, behind a 12-year-old Blue Peter presenter. And Brian Moore WON his episode and he's a proper thicko.

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 04 January, 2012, 10:56:04 am
Spoilsport ;)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 04 January, 2012, 11:47:17 am
Come on, though - does anyone really think Stacey Solomon is thicker than Brian Moore?

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 04 January, 2012, 01:23:12 pm
Brian Moore was a solicitor.  I leave it to the panel to decide whether this is the province of a thick-o O:-)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Domestique on 09 January, 2012, 08:25:06 pm
The Great Train Robbery's Missin Mastermind
On Ch.4 now.
There is also some great footage driving around London, just look how much space there is  :o :o
Btw the rest is interesting as well  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 13 January, 2012, 08:48:45 pm
Sicily Unpacked - BBC2 9:00pm tonight.

Andrew Graham-Dixon (art historian) and Giorgio Locatelli (chef) show each other their favourite things in Sicily.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Rig of Jarkness on 13 January, 2012, 09:18:58 pm
Recently caught onto Michael Portillo's railway programmes, most interesting and enjoyable.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Domestique on 16 January, 2012, 09:35:46 pm
Coppers on Ch4. Been on since 9pm. That family birthday party  :o :o 
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Rig of Jarkness on 17 January, 2012, 07:07:21 am
New series of Hawaii Five O and Desperate Housewives  :thumbsup:

No sign yet of the second half of Pan Am :(
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 17 January, 2012, 11:08:09 am
Coppers on Ch4. Been on since 9pm. That family birthday party  :o :o

I wouldn't have watched that but my wife put it on and I got drawn in. I enjoyed it far more than I would have expected. Some of the people they had to deal with were pretty awful, but it seemed to be edited to make the police look bad as well (yes, I know some might say this wouldn't be hard, but it seems quite a deliberate, calculated and cynical move on the part of the film-makers).

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 17 January, 2012, 11:10:19 am
You missed Star Gazing Live last night, on BBC2.  They were cramming too much in, so leaving little time for detailed info, but still it was a nice watch.  More tonight, I think.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 17 January, 2012, 11:46:06 am
Can't stand Pretty Boy Cox.

My son's school are taking part in the star-gazing tonight - making good use of their new £2m observatory. Tempted to go along, though I might just save it for one of their regular open evenings when it's likely to be less busy. Likely to be better than watching that nobber (to use his own favourite word) cooing over the magnificence of the universe like a loved-up puppy.

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 17 January, 2012, 12:03:19 pm
Can't stand Pretty Boy Cox.

Strange, he seems perfectly intelligent, unassuming and witty.  Any reason in particular?

Personally I think he's precisely what the subject(s) needed for a TV audience.  I find his enthusiasm rather infectious and his credentials can't be argued with (On top of that he's had 2 rock/pop careers).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 17 January, 2012, 12:15:52 pm
Strange, he seems perfectly intelligent, unassuming and witty.  Any reason in particular?

One man's unassuming and witty is another's superficial and glib.

Quote
Personally I think he's precisely what the subject(s) needed for a TV audience.

That's just the problem - the programme is made for the average TV audience... It's great that he's making it cool to like sciencey stuff but religion would be cool if the Archbishop of Canterbury had those cheekbones and a floppy fringe. Where's the substance? (Coursing around Brian Cox's veins, probably.)

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 17 January, 2012, 12:17:37 pm
Strange, he seems perfectly intelligent, unassuming and witty.  Any reason in particular?

One man's unassuming and witty is another's superficial and glib.

Quote
Personally I think he's precisely what the subject(s) needed for a TV audience.

That's just the problem - the programme is made for the average TV audience... It's great that he's making it cool to like sciencey stuff but religion would be cool if the Archbishop of Canterbury had those cheekbones and a floppy fringe. Where's the substance? (Coursing around Brian Cox's veins, probably.)

d.

The real substance of the subject is probably in a Degree course at University.  This is prime time TV.

It sounds like you're blaming him for his bone structure...would you be happier with some 1970's Open University lecturer geek with bad hair and B.O.?

Edit
Quote
That's just the problem - the programme is made for the average TV audience... It's great that he's making it cool to like sciencey stuff

I'm struggling to see the problem.

The BBC didn't just get Hugh Grant to present their popular Physics programs, they went to a  British particle physicist, a Royal Society University Research Fellow and a professor at the University of Manchester. He is a member of the High Energy Physics group at the University of Manchester, and works on the ATLAS experiment at the Large Hadron Collider at CERN.

The fact they found someone with that CV capable of presenting to "an average TV Audience" is a miracle.  He reminds me of Carl Sagan (the person who made this stuff cool and interesting for me on similar programs back in the day).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 17 January, 2012, 12:28:03 pm
I'm struggling to see the problem.

Apparently.

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 17 January, 2012, 12:29:50 pm
I suspect dislike for Brian Cox is partly to do with him being one of those people who appears to smile even when he doesn't mean to, just due to his bone structure and teeth.  You shouldn't find him terribly annoying once you get over this.

I am Mr Average TV Viewer, perhaps albeit with a slightly greater appetite for science than Mr Pure Average.  I get as much substance as I want from Cox.  I'll go elsewhere for more if I want more.  I do find his tone too monotonous for an hour-long documentary, but he's just fine for a few mins here and there.

There were plenty of other people in front of the camera last night besides Cox, including Liz Bonnin (http://www.google.co.uk/search?q=liz+bonnin&hl=en&safe=active&prmd=imvnso&source=lnms&tbm=isch&ei=fmsVT5OrB9G0hAfjv6mNAg&sa=X&oi=mode_link&ct=mode&cd=2&ved=0CA8Q_AUoAQ&biw=1280&bih=861).  Liz happens to provide candy for my eye as well as food for my brain.  She genuinely knows her stuff.  :thumbsup:  I love Dara Ó Briain (http://www.google.co.uk/search?q=liz+bonnin&hl=en&safe=active&prmd=imvnso&source=lnms&tbm=isch&ei=fmsVT5OrB9G0hAfjv6mNAg&sa=X&oi=mode_link&ct=mode&cd=2&ved=0CA8Q_AUoAQ&biw=1280&bih=861#hl=en&safe=active&tbm=isch&sa=1&q=Dara+%C3%93+Briain%2C&pbx=1&oq=Dara+%C3%93+Briain%2C&aq=f&aqi=g-s1g-S1g-sS4g-S1g-sS2&aql=&gs_sm=s&gs_upl=45645l45645l0l48443l1l1l0l0l0l0l93l93l1l1l0&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.,cf.osb&fp=c532a30ca5d82f67&biw=1280&bih=861) as well, who knows some stuff and is genuinely enthusiastic on the subject.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 17 January, 2012, 12:29:50 pm
I'm struggling to see the problem.

Apparently.

d.

Care to explain it?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 17 January, 2012, 12:32:22 pm
I can't explain it better than I already did.

Where are the science programmes for people with more than two brain cells to rub together?

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 17 January, 2012, 12:35:06 pm
Where are the science programmes for people with more than two brain cells to rub together?

BBC4.  Star Gazing Live is on BBC2.  The last man on the Moon was impressed with the programme.  It's good enough for me if it's good enough for him!  I only have two brain cells, so I like it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 17 January, 2012, 12:46:25 pm
I prefer to make up my own mind.

I'm not having a dig at anyone who likes the programme. I expressed an opinion, that's all, and expanded on my reasons for that opinion on request. I don't like it but, as ever, YMMV.

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ray 6701 on 17 January, 2012, 12:54:03 pm
I will be sitting down comfortably for the second installment of stargazing tonight & I'm also enjoying Great British railway journeys with Mr Portillo too & Time Team.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 17 January, 2012, 01:03:28 pm
New series of Hawaii Five O and Desperate Housewives  :thumbsup:

No sign yet of the second half of Pan Am :(
I gave up on Pan Am after the second programme because it was so very very awful. I am happy that The Good Wife is back though.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: numbnuts on 17 January, 2012, 01:13:07 pm
I think Brian Cox explains things very well even to a layman like me
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Domestique on 17 January, 2012, 09:24:36 pm
Coming Out Diaries on BBC3 is on now, its very good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 19 January, 2012, 01:26:26 pm
The Good Wife continues tonight and new series of The Big C (More 4) and Mad Dogs (Sky 1).

Jonathan Meades on France was excellent last night on BBC4 - there are more episodes to come.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Juan Martín on 19 January, 2012, 01:32:59 pm
I enjoyed Jonathan Meades last night and am looking forward to the rest of the series.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rower40 on 19 January, 2012, 08:45:13 pm
Currently cringing behind on the sofa while watching "Help! I Caught it abroad".  A tsetse-on-the-wall documentary about a (the?) tropical diseases hospital.

Concerned about that Kildale trip now.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 19 January, 2012, 11:33:17 pm
Gypsy Blood.
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: AndyK on 20 January, 2012, 12:00:56 am
.  but religion would be cool if the Archbishop of Canterbury had those cheekbones and a floppy fringe

Cliff Richard?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 20 January, 2012, 08:46:58 am
I enjoyed Jonathan Meades last night and am looking forward to the rest of the series.

Thanks for the heads up. I had missed that this was on and watched it last night on iPlayer. Very good it was too.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Domestique on 20 January, 2012, 04:57:47 pm
Gypsy Blood.

Wtf was that dog thing all about  ???
Was that a deer the dog caught, then the butchering  :sick:
Did he have his fight in the end?
I switched over to Family Guy at that point
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 20 January, 2012, 05:05:01 pm
I missed the beginning - and I had to have the subtitles on.

He didn't get his revenge fight, I suppose that will be in a follow-up programme.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 20 January, 2012, 07:28:35 pm
Strange, he seems perfectly intelligent, unassuming and witty.  Any reason in particular?

One man's unassuming and witty is another's superficial and glib.

That applies rather well to such critique as
Quote
Can't stand Pretty Boy Cox
.


Talking of getting the level right [ as they say in teacher training] I really enjoyed the Meades programme despite not having a clue what he was talking about half the time!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: spindrift on 20 January, 2012, 07:30:53 pm
Sexy Beast, Film 4 11pm.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 20 January, 2012, 11:42:56 pm
Ben Kingsley channeling Adrian, or the other way round?

You choose.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Frere on 22 January, 2012, 08:15:13 pm
Birdsong, adaptation of Faulks' book of the same name, BBC1, also in HD, 9pm, anyone else planning to watch this?

Frere
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: border-rider on 22 January, 2012, 09:07:48 pm
Birdsong, adaptation of Faulks' book of the same name, BBC1, also in HD, 9pm, anyone else planning to watch this?

Frere


watching it now.  I read the book some years ago and enjoyed it
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: border-rider on 22 January, 2012, 09:40:23 pm
Bloody good so far.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LindaG on 23 January, 2012, 08:59:45 pm
Slumdog Millionaire's on a minute.

Clearly this was meant to be.   ::-)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 23 January, 2012, 09:22:19 pm
The two episodes of Corrie tonight were absolutely magnificent.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Juan Martín on 26 January, 2012, 09:00:16 am
Birdsong: I remember enjoying the book when I read it about 10 years ago so I was looking forward to seeing the adaptation. But I just found it immensely irritating and only managed about half an hour. All the reviews I have seen have been positive so I assume it's just me. Did anyone else struggle with this?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 26 January, 2012, 09:52:18 am
I just saw the trailer for "Birdsong" and when the stiff-upper-lip subaltern was telling the other chap what to do in case of shooty DETH on the part of the former, I'm afraid I expected the latter to reply "Of course, darling".

I haz no soul.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 26 January, 2012, 10:15:00 am
Birdsong: I remember enjoying the book when I read it about 10 years ago so I was looking forward to seeing the adaptation. But I just found it immensely irritating and only managed about half an hour. All the reviews I have seen have been positive so I assume it's just me. Did anyone else struggle with this?

http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-24030772-why-are-critics-all-in-love-with-middlebrow.do

I didn't see it myself. Didn't really appeal, tbh, but beyond that, I can't comment.

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: keeks on 26 January, 2012, 11:23:06 am
Anyone watch that "Magnificent men in their flying machines " I loved it . Theres was something heroic and romantic about it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 26 January, 2012, 02:57:53 pm
Quite enjoyed Birdsong.

Having read the book (few years ago), I'm wondering what 'newcomers' thought about why-on-earth our hero is staying in this house in France. The book explains all, but there didn't seem to be any expo. in this version.

(I'm also with MrL - Blackadder has ruined any trench-based drama for a while yet!)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Frere on 26 January, 2012, 10:45:54 pm
Right now, on C4, Japan's Tsunami: Caught on Camera.

Real 'Hail Mary' sort of stuff, and pretty sobering.

Frere
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Zipperhead on 27 January, 2012, 12:01:55 am
Anyone watch that "Magnificent men in their flying machines " I loved it . Theres was something heroic and romantic about it.

Yes I did. It was brilliant, very funny and quite moving. It was lovely to see peoples attitudes to each other and the whole race change as they came to realise what was really important to them.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: BrianI on 28 January, 2012, 02:58:47 pm
"Galaxy Quest" on tonight, BBC2 / BBCHD 4:35pm   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Frere on 28 January, 2012, 03:20:15 pm
Borgen

Frere
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 30 January, 2012, 12:39:55 pm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-16658110

A documentary series about social workers in child protection.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 30 January, 2012, 10:40:23 pm
Borgen

Frere
Watched the first 4 eps. Not impressed.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 01 February, 2012, 08:05:15 pm
Heston, C4, now. All about cheese.
nomnomnomnomnomnom
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Peter on 01 February, 2012, 08:10:11 pm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-16658110

A documentary series about social workers in child protection.

Kirst, I only saw a glimpse of this.  What was the upshot for the little boy who wasn't talking and chucked toys around (just a snapshot, by the way, not a definition)?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 01 February, 2012, 08:25:52 pm
No, everyone does not love cheese on toast, Heston Bloominghell.  I won't be putting stilton on a chocolate biscuit either.  :sick:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 02 February, 2012, 05:14:52 pm
Kirst, I only saw a glimpse of this.  What was the upshot for the little boy who wasn't talking and chucked toys around (just a snapshot, by the way, not a definition)?
Oh, get it on iPlayer, it was good. The upshot was they took the wee boy into foster care, his mother was pregnant, the dad did a runner (no great loss) and the mother gave both the kiddies up for adoption. The baby girl was adopted very quickly, the wee boy is still waiting and because of his additional needs, will probably never be adopted.

The feelings of most of us here (who do not work in child protection) was that if the dad had pissed off months before, it might have been possible to support the mother to look after her child - but any parents who don't understand it's not ok to have a child playing on a floor covered in dog shit are going to struggle.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Peter on 02 February, 2012, 05:18:48 pm
Thanks, Kirst, I'm just in a break at work at the moment but will try to catch it asap.  I expect I'll find it distressing but I was hoping something like that might happen from the bit I saw.  I'm also wondering if the boy might be autistic, poor little mite, although it would be perfectly understandable that he wasn't talking in circumstances like that.  Social-worker is a hell of a job.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: lou boutin on 02 February, 2012, 05:21:21 pm
Heston, C4, now. All about cheese.
nomnomnomnomnomnom

very stretchy cheese at that.  He inspired me to try his version of cheese fondue - I've invited friends around on Saturday to taste/test my experiment.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Frere on 04 February, 2012, 07:35:04 pm
Borgen. Last two episodes :(

Frere
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Frere on 04 February, 2012, 11:03:55 pm
Borgen. Last two episodes :(

Frere

Excellent series. Very good in showing the transition from an idealistic soon to be PM to a hardened operator of power, picking up the necessary callouses while paying a high price, as did of her principles, husband, children, friends and associates.

Frere
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: andyoxon on 06 February, 2012, 11:05:40 pm
My name is Maximus Decimus Meridius, commander of the Armies of the North, General of the Felix Legions, loyal servant to the true emperor, Marcus Aurelius. Father to a murdered son, husband to a murdered wife. And I will have my vengeance, in this life or the next...

Seen Gladiator loads of times, but it's still good... (on now)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 07 February, 2012, 09:01:29 pm
ooo Junior Doctors is on now. I love watching gore from the other side of the telly :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Frere on 19 February, 2012, 09:28:41 pm
Now, Homeland on C4. Be interesting to see how this pans out.

Frere
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 19 February, 2012, 10:09:52 pm
We're recording Homeland to watch later. Supposed to be proper event telly à la The Wire. We also recorded Luck last night - horse racing drama written by David Milch, who did Deadwood, and starring Dustin Hoffman, which is good enough for me.

Yesterday, we watched the first ep of Friday Night Lights (drama about an American high school football team) and found it hugely enjoyable. It's cheesier than a Stilton sandwich but has great characters and is very accessible - me and my son were totally into it from the start and by the end of the episode, we were jumping on the sofa and cheering for the Panthers. Not intellectually demanding but really good telly.

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Domestique on 20 February, 2012, 09:11:33 pm
Coppers on Ch4 now.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Rig of Jarkness on 21 February, 2012, 09:34:00 pm
A new series of The Indian Doctor starting on Monday afternoon.  The first series was thoroughly enjoyable.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 06 March, 2012, 02:28:26 pm
Saw the first in the new series of Dirk Gently last night. I was expecting to hate it but gave it a chance and very glad I did - it was hilarious, made me laugh lots.

I was planning to go to bed when it finished, but then Knuckle came on, a Storyville documentary about bareknuckle fighting and family rivalries in the Irish traveller community. I started watching and was instantly hooked. The film-maker spent 12 years following the families and the result is a thoroughly compelling piece of work. Well worth catching up on iPlayer if you missed it.

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 06 March, 2012, 04:19:52 pm
Saw the first in the new series of Dirk Gently last night. I was expecting to hate it but gave it a chance and very glad I did - it was hilarious, made me laugh lots.

I was planning to go to bed when it finished, but then Knuckle came on, a Storyville documentary about bareknuckle fighting and family rivalries in the Irish traveller community. I started watching and was instantly hooked. The film-maker spent 12 years following the families and the result is a thoroughly compelling piece of work. Well worth catching up on iPlayer if you missed it.

d.

I saw "Knuckles" as well. 

Did you see that chap with the brain-cell? 

No, neither did I.

Quite spectacularly bad fighting though, makes you appreciate how good professional boxers are really.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 06 March, 2012, 04:33:06 pm
Quite spectacularly bad fighting though, makes you appreciate how good professional boxers are really.

Yes, appalling technique. Fascinating characters, though. I thought it was a brilliant insight into their way of life - unlike the truly awful Big Fat Gypsy Weddings.

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 06 March, 2012, 07:54:18 pm
Quite spectacularly bad fighting though, makes you appreciate how good professional boxers are really.

Yes, appalling technique. Fascinating characters, though. I thought it was a brilliant insight into their way of life - unlike the truly awful Big Fat Gypsy Weddings.

d.

Jesus there was some brave talk from the Travellers when their opponent/sworn-enemy/1st-cousin/Uncle (usually all 4) wasn't around wasn't there?

"I'd have fekkin had the fekker if I hadn't had a bad leg/bad back/bad knee and the sun wasn't in my eyes and ..and...and...and so on"

Fabulous documentary though. 

£60,000 bets on fights!!!!

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biff on 06 March, 2012, 09:53:31 pm
Now watching 'Horizon - Solar Storms'. BBC at its best. Cracking stuff.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: lou boutin on 07 March, 2012, 01:26:48 pm
I've been watching Whitechapel. This series has seriously freaked me out, even so I love it, especially as DI Chandler is very easy on the eye.  #typicalHormonalWomanOfACertainAge
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 March, 2012, 01:05:32 pm
Now watching 'Horizon - Solar Storms'. BBC at its best. Cracking stuff.

I gave up on this after ten minutes because it was so glacially slow.  Horizon is supposed to be a SCIENCE programme, so please can we have SCIENCE rather than, say, arty footage of a professor running in the Arizona desert which had absolutely no relevance to the subject at hand >:(
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Domestique on 10 March, 2012, 09:09:43 pm
Our Man in the Costa's - About the British Consulate in the Costa's
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Frere on 10 March, 2012, 09:35:53 pm
As GF is venetian, italiano night on the TV. First, Sicily Unpacked, now Montalbano.

Frere
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 11 March, 2012, 08:24:28 am
I loved Sicily unpacked.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Frere on 11 March, 2012, 07:57:42 pm
Homeland

Frere
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 09 April, 2012, 08:51:21 pm
Inside Nature's Giants: Hippo.  Nearly finished, but catch it 4+1 at 9pm.

As well as seeing what they look like on the inside, only tonight have I learnt that hippos come out of the water at night to eat, and eat nearly all night.  They're not actually very fat.  Much of the bulk comes from the huge stomach, full of grass.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ferret on 09 April, 2012, 08:59:00 pm
well we have st Trinians the great train robbery on, old but fun :facepalm:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: her_welshness on 09 April, 2012, 09:04:21 pm
Just about to watch 'Heat'. There is nothing else to watch  :o
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Frere on 09 April, 2012, 09:12:04 pm
Just about to watch 'Heat'. There is nothing else to watch  :o

Uber bank heist shoot out  :thumbsup:

Frere
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: her_welshness on 09 April, 2012, 09:13:50 pm
Just about to watch 'Heat'. There is nothing else to watch  :o

Uber bank heist shoot out  :thumbsup:

Frere

Stonkingly good cast  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: jogler on 09 April, 2012, 10:52:45 pm
MotD
Newcastle FC
Ben Arfa

class act
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Rig of Jarkness on 12 April, 2012, 07:04:42 am
I've just remembered to catch up on Four in a Bed, quality viewing  :thumbsup:

I can't believe how some B&B owners get away with charging so much, especially when they have the crap attitude to guests shown by the Rolls Royce driving couple in this week's series.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: AndyK on 12 April, 2012, 07:14:19 pm
Derek. New series from Ricky Gervais.



Cue the knee jerks.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: AndyK on 13 April, 2012, 08:09:20 am
Well Derek was excellent! Pathos and humour in equal measure. Very enjoyable indeed.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 13 April, 2012, 08:56:01 am
On Wednesday the BBC started a new series - Divine Women - about women in religion. The first one was about pre-historic and ancient people worshipping goddesses as creators and destroyers, and how the goddesses were supplanted by gods, plus a bit about modern goddess worship in India. It was very interesting and I'm looking forward to the next ones.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 13 April, 2012, 09:57:42 am
Well Derek was excellent! Pathos and humour in equal measure. Very enjoyable indeed.

I was dreading it.  I'm a fan of Gervais and I know there are many haters out there (despite much of his work receiving the highest praise/awards possible).

Then there was "Mong-gate".  I was worried this would add fuel to the fire.

Anyhoo...I also really enjoyed it, my wife and daughter also.  I think AndyK sums it up well.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 13 April, 2012, 12:34:16 pm
On Wednesday the BBC started a new series - Divine Women - about women in religion. The first one was about pre-historic and ancient people worshipping goddesses as creators and destroyers, and how the goddesses were supplanted by gods, plus a bit about modern goddess worship in India. It was very interesting and I'm looking forward to the next ones.

Watched that yesterday.  'twas dead interesting and presented by the gorgeous Bettany Hughes.  Win.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 13 April, 2012, 12:37:45 pm
Her presentation annoyed me. She's too gushy and emphatic.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 13 April, 2012, 01:05:28 pm
I'm a fan of Gervais and I know there are many haters out there (despite much of his work receiving the highest praise/awards possible).

Then there was "Mong-gate".  I was worried this would add fuel to the fire.

Leaving the controversies aside and judging the work purely on its own merits...

I found it over-sentimental and under-funny.

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 16 April, 2012, 09:49:18 pm
I'm half-watching a BBC2 thing about the 70s. It's currently talking about the influx of Ugandan Asians. Before that it was talking about David Bowie and Marc Bolan wearing makeup.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Frere on 21 April, 2012, 05:27:47 pm
The Bridge, BBC4, 21.00 - 22.00 and 22.00 - 23.00

http://www.guardian.co.uk/tv-and-radio/2012/apr/20/bridge-killing-wallander-lund

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/tvandradio/9216202/The-Bridge-BBC-Four-preview.html

7.8/10 in http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1733785/

Should be ok to watch :)

Frere

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Domestique on 21 April, 2012, 05:39:20 pm
I'm half-watching a BBC2 thing about the 70s. It's currently talking about the influx of Ugandan Asians. Before that it was talking about David Bowie and Marc Bolan wearing makeup.

I was also watching that. Makes you realise just how different Bowie and Co where to what else was around then. The bad thing for me, I suddenly find myself on Amazon adding to my ever growing music collection  :-[.
Aso the opening clip showing London and the then working power station on the south bank.
Totp 1977 has been good as well.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ferret on 22 April, 2012, 04:03:04 pm
watched The Bridge last night, why are these type of things so much better to watch than the crap we get from America, same things happen goodies and baddies and the occasional bit of rumpy pumpy,
 The Killing which was on a while ago proved this point (for me any way ) watched the euro version brilliant, watched the yank version gave up before the end of episode one.
 
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Domestique on 22 April, 2012, 08:13:24 pm
Indian Ocean with Simon Reeve on BBC now. I think he did a series 'Cooking in the danger zone' a few years ago which was good, so far this looks good as well.
Anything is better than Top Gear though  :smug:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 22 April, 2012, 08:54:30 pm
Reggae Britannia - repeated 1.25 am tonight (or early tomorrow morning) on BBC4.

http://soundofthehound.com/tag/reggae-britannia/
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 22 April, 2012, 11:48:34 pm
The Bridge was superb. Not as subtle as The Killing, but more immediately accessible. Great characters - already love the relationship between the easy-going Danish cop and the intense Swedish cop. Another thing that's different to The Killing is the humour - there were some very funny moments. And some very grisly and/or tense moments. Nice line in mysterious subplots too.

The first ep is repeated on BBC4 tomorrow (Monday) night for anyone who missed it, and the second ep is repeated on Tuesday night. Highly recommended.

Did I mention Friday Night Lights already? Cheesy drama about an American high school football team on Sky Atlantic. It's all rather predictable and perhaps somewhat cliched, and probably aimed at a much younger audience than me, but it has real heart. And great characters. And it has completely sucked me in. I'm totally addicted to it, to the point where I really missed it when they skipped a week for the launch of Mad Men (which has completely passed me by). Go Panthers!

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 23 April, 2012, 01:44:25 pm
The Bridge is turning out to be æxcellent though I haven't figured out where either the heart-transplant chap, the skank who spends her life sitting in puddle smoking or the bloke with the seventies porn-star 'tache fir into it yet.

I am one of the Slow Children.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 23 April, 2012, 02:58:32 pm
The Bridge...
(click to show/hide)

I'm intrigued as to how the relationship will develop between Saga and that nice chap she flirted with in the bar. Do I hear the distant tinkle of wedding bells?

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 23 April, 2012, 03:20:18 pm
Well Derek was excellent! Pathos and humour in equal measure. Very enjoyable indeed.

I was dreading it.  I'm a fan of Gervais and I know there are many haters out there (despite much of his work receiving the highest praise/awards possible).

Then there was "Mong-gate".  I was worried this would add fuel to the fire.

Anyhoo...I also really enjoyed it, my wife and daughter also.  I think AndyK sums it up well.
Me too! (sorry, only just got round to watching the tape  :-[ ) I was expecting a series, shame.

Far less shoutyness and general irritation than The Office  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: welshwheels on 24 April, 2012, 08:16:59 pm
chelsea barcelona  :facepalm:http://www.firstrowsports.eu/watch/120838/4/watch-fc-barcelona-vs-chelsea.html
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 24 April, 2012, 08:59:50 pm
Yes.

A self Destruct button has been pressed.

Listening to John Terry's explanation is cringeworthy.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 25 April, 2012, 12:15:19 pm
I couldn't muster up the enthusiasm to watch the foopball last night so I watched Prof Mary Beard's Romans thing instead, which was brilliant.

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: clarion on 25 April, 2012, 12:15:56 pm
Who won? ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 25 April, 2012, 12:17:01 pm
Attila the Hun...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 26 April, 2012, 10:41:19 am
I couldn't muster up the enthusiasm to watch the foopball last night so I watched Prof Mary Beard's Romans thing instead, which was brilliant.

d.

She's fantastic. "and no fanny doesn't mean that in Latin ...."  (referring to a tombstone to one Fanny Voluptua a pub landlady) :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 26 April, 2012, 11:29:21 am
Yes, I did like that bit. Those names were hilarious - they could have been taken straight out of Monty Python. Didn't the bloke have a name that meant "Hot Sex" or something like that?

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Riggers on 26 April, 2012, 11:35:04 am
… and at the very end of the programme… "… and all shitting together."

Voiceover chappie after programme: "Ahem, yes, thank you for that insight Mary."
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Riggers on 26 April, 2012, 11:37:47 am
Friend of ours was at school with Mary, and she said she was dead clever even then.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 26 April, 2012, 04:53:52 pm
Friend of ours was at school with Mary, and she said she was dead clever even then.

What about Mary, was she bright too?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Riggers on 26 April, 2012, 04:57:30 pm
<smiley with pathetic expression>
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Domestique on 28 April, 2012, 08:39:12 pm
Catching up on Extreme A&E. Fecking hell this is gruesome  :o
There is some very nutter driving in Australia.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 09 May, 2012, 10:08:07 pm
@Domestique, yes there is, but there is also a lot of very considerate driving, just like most other places....

Tonights recommendation has to be Metalworks! on BBC Four, unfortunately just finishing (but should be on iPlayer) a fascinating account of how Henry VIII, among others pushed forward the art of armour making.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: andygates on 09 May, 2012, 10:12:31 pm
Lovely articulation! Lovely bluing and gilding! Lovely big armoured bear!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 09 May, 2012, 10:21:28 pm
That was cool :-)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 10 May, 2012, 11:11:30 am
Tonights recommendation has to be Metalworks! on BBC Four, unfortunately just finishing (but should be on iPlayer) a fascinating account of how Henry VIII, among others pushed forward the art of armour making.

Ooh, missed that but I like the sound of it. I'll have a look on iplayer. Thanks for the tip off.

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Pingu on 10 May, 2012, 04:34:26 pm
Great codpiece protection!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 10 May, 2012, 04:35:52 pm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b01hdhpy/Metalworks!_The_Knights_Tale/

There you go, the first episode (which I missed) was about silver.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 11 May, 2012, 09:12:35 pm
There you go, the first episode (which I missed) was about silver.

Just figured out why I missed the first one - it's got that Dan Cruickshank on it. Meh.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 14 May, 2012, 08:46:39 pm
56 Up - ITV1 9pm

Continuing the "Seven Up!" series; fifty years in the making.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Frere on 14 May, 2012, 09:07:49 pm
TV - of sorts. Or rather, the second series of Borgen. Just finished the box set (imported) and its great as ever. I understand it will be shown soon on BBC4, something like that.

Frere
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Frere on 26 May, 2012, 08:00:54 pm
Another Scandinavia import tonight  - Sebastian Bergman, 9pm, BBC4

Frere

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: microphonie on 30 May, 2012, 07:07:17 pm
Tonight (30/05/12)  on BBC4 at 22:00 - as a precursor to  Punk Britannia  (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00s81jz) on Friday there's   Evidently - John Cooper Clarke  (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01jcdbc)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: NeilP on 30 May, 2012, 11:06:59 pm
Tonight (30/05/12)  on BBC4 at 22:00 - as a precursor to  Punk Britannia  (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00s81jz) on Friday there's   Evidently - John Cooper Clarke  (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01jcdbc)

Just caught the final half hour of the JCC doc, definitely on my list of all time greatest Englishmen. OGWT now on BBC4, classic early Banshees plus more JCC. I love BBC4
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Rig of Jarkness on 01 June, 2012, 09:37:20 pm
Just watched Prince Charles' programme of home cine footage and holiday snaps.  Marvellous  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Illegal Combat Ant on 05 June, 2012, 08:27:58 pm
If More4 weren't such a bunch of arse I'd be recommending people to watch Jon Stewart reporting on CNN reporting on the Jubilee flotilla. Brilliant.  :thumbsup:

http://www.mediaite.com/tv/jon-stewart-tears-apart-cnns-over-the-top-coverage-of-queens-diamond-jubilee/ (http://www.mediaite.com/tv/jon-stewart-tears-apart-cnns-over-the-top-coverage-of-queens-diamond-jubilee/)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 21 June, 2012, 03:40:17 pm
I've been enjoying 24 Hours In A&E, even though it's not the kind of thing I'd usually go for. I think I like the fact that they concentrate on the procedural elements of working in A&E rather than going after the "human interest" stories.

Last night's ep featured a young woman who was in because she'd got blood poisoning from muscle protein breaking down in her thighs after a spinning class. I looked it up - it's called rhabdomyolysis (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhabdomyolysis). Scary.

It looked like she also had compartment syndrome (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compartment_syndrome) - her thigh had ruptured and they had to staple it back together,

They didn't say whether she had any underlying illnesses or was on any medication that could have exacerbated the condition, though there was a hint that alcohol may have been a factor.

Still, makes you think about the damage you can do to yourself with intense exercise... <scoffing lots of bananas>

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Rig of Jarkness on 28 June, 2012, 08:43:46 am
Turn Back Time.  I'm feeling really sorry for the poor family that got house 3.  All the families are coping remarkably well in the circumstances.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Rig of Jarkness on 12 July, 2012, 07:14:20 pm
This week I discovered Thelma's Gypsy Girls.  Trash TV at its best  :thumbsup:
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 30 July, 2012, 10:18:35 pm
Adam Buxton's Bug on Sky Atlantic.

Basically, he plays a video from YouTube then reads out some of the user comments. Very, very funny.

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 07 February, 2013, 09:09:45 pm
I hope this will be good: drama documentary on Joyce Carol Vincent, a young woman who died in her flat and wasn't discovered for three years.  The TV was still on when her skeleton was eventually discovered.  10 pm C4.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/film/2011/oct/09/joyce-vincent-death-mystery-documentary
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: BrianI on 07 February, 2013, 09:26:24 pm
Currently watching a doc on C4  "How to build a bionic man"
Quote
From prosthetic arms and legs to artificial organs, science is beginning to catch up with sci-fi in the race to replace body parts with man-made alternatives. Psychologist Bertolt Meyer, who has a bionic hand himself, meets scientists working at the cutting-edge of research to find out just how far this new technology can go, while a team creates a complete `bionic man' for the first time, using state-of-the-art limbs and organs borrowed from some of the world's leading laboratories and manufacturers
Read more at http://www.tvguide.co.uk/detail.asp?id=147757007#dAQmsu6wjVrcp5cb.99

So far seen obligatory boston dynamic's big dog footage, and now surgery for a digital retina implant.....
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 08 February, 2013, 10:45:32 am
Currently watching a doc on C4  "How to build a bionic man"

Damn, forgot to watch that. Was Peter Kyberd on it?

d.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Juan Martín on 09 February, 2013, 07:49:23 pm
Spiral (Engrenages) Series 4 on BBC4 tonight at 9.00. Any takers?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Diver300 on 09 February, 2013, 09:08:25 pm
Spiral (Engrenages) Series 4 on BBC4 tonight at 9.00. Any takers?

Of course.

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: StuAff on 09 February, 2013, 09:13:30 pm
Moi aussi :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hillbilly on 12 February, 2013, 09:03:37 am
Black Mirror on C4 last night.

Interesting TV, even if it is not half as clever as it thinks.  The kind of show that would be more powerful as a series of 15 minute short films.  But not to be too harsh, it is very watchable.  And it benefits from being a new scripted drama made and set in the UK, with no hint of the 1950s (or earlier).  And not a hint of physical violence, preferring instead to focus on emotional turmoil.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 12 February, 2013, 09:30:03 am
Black Mirror on C4 last night.

Interesting TV, even if it is not half as clever as it thinks.  The kind of show that would be more powerful as a series of 15 minute short films.  But not to be too harsh, it is very watchable.  And it benefits from being a new scripted drama made and set in the UK, with no hint of the 1950s (or earlier).  And not a hint of physical violence, preferring instead to focus on emotional turmoil.

I thought it was pretty powerful as it was. I did like it, if you can like something at the same time as being vaguely disturbed by it.

The woman who played Martha was in my year at school, which just added to the weirdness.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 12 February, 2013, 11:45:35 am
I thought this was an improvement on the first series, more subtle and better acting. It was stretched out a bit, but 15mins wouldn't have worked!!!

"not half as clever as it thinks" is pretty fair, and applied to the first series too. This show was basically a 1950s science-fiction short story, with elements of very recent technology woven in to make it feel 'current'.

There was an episode of R4's Digital Human that dealt with what happens to dead people on the internet, and how our legacies are affected by vast digital libraries. The freakiest thing was a service you could 'book' to send pre-scheduled emails to loved ones (or others ... ) after you die.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 13 February, 2013, 01:49:28 pm
I hope this will be good: drama documentary on Joyce Carol Vincent, a young woman who died in her flat and wasn't discovered for three years.  The TV was still on when her skeleton was eventually discovered.  10 pm C4.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/film/2011/oct/09/joyce-vincent-death-mystery-documentary

And it was good, and nominated for several documentary awards.  Recommended viewing.

http://www.dreamsofalife.com/

http://www.channel4.com/programmes/dreams-of-a-life/4od
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 13 February, 2013, 01:56:45 pm
I hope this will be good: drama documentary on Joyce Carol Vincent, a young woman who died in her flat and wasn't discovered for three years.  The TV was still on when her skeleton was eventually discovered.  10 pm C4.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/film/2011/oct/09/joyce-vincent-death-mystery-documentary

And it was good, and nominated for several documentary awards.  Recommended viewing.

http://www.dreamsofalife.com/

http://www.channel4.com/programmes/dreams-of-a-life/4od

It was good, if a difficult watch at times. Thought-provoking and very sad.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 14 February, 2013, 09:58:22 pm
It's Harold Wilson night on BBC Parliament.
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 15 February, 2013, 08:28:51 am
I watched Horizon on BBC4 last night about mapping the universe. Fascinating. And slightly brain-melting. And no floppy-haired pretty boys saying "amazing!" every two minutes.
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bumper on 15 February, 2013, 08:33:16 am
Does the walking dead start again tonight?

Yes on Fox at 10.00pm, just checked.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 19 February, 2013, 09:52:04 am
Anyone else see last night’s Black Mirror? I thought it was great and did not see the twist coming. Charlie Brooker has a dark, dark mind. The best thing is that the situation didn’t seem that implausible, given where we are today.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Rhys W on 19 February, 2013, 03:25:48 pm
Yes, I thought it was very good (better than the first episode, which I thought was also good). About halfway through I realised the post-apocalyptic atmosphere reminded me of Derren Brown's programme where he succeeded in suggesting that his "victim" was a survivor in a zombie apocalypse... then suddenly, we had the "it's all just a show" denouement. Wow. The very end was satisfyingly ambiguous.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hillbilly on 20 February, 2013, 06:53:07 am
Ditto - interesting concept with a decent twist.  And it had the courier from Spaced in it (I've not read the credits but that Irish voice is very distinct).  Ah, the clubbing episode from Spaced.  Now that was awesome telly...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 27 February, 2013, 07:02:08 pm
Final Black Mirror (S2 Ep3, as I think they say):

Slightly disappointing, mainly in terms of the ending. Perhaps because I was expecting some kind of twist ... dunno. Whatevs, I think it was the weakest of this series. Although possibly the most plausible!

[and was he the bloke from those awful student brodband ads?!?]
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: her_welshness on 27 February, 2013, 07:08:30 pm
Final Black Mirror (S2 Ep3, as I think they say):

Slightly disappointing, mainly in terms of the ending. Perhaps because I was expecting some kind of twist ... dunno. Whatevs, I think it was the weakest of this series. Although possibly the most plausible!

[and was he the bloke from those awful student brodband ads?!?]

It was - Daniel Rigby. I thought he was bloody brilliant!

Did not see the other two episodes but I thought it was good, still thinking about it..
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 28 February, 2013, 06:19:31 pm
He was very convincing in the role.

It was a good prog, just didn't match my expectations after the other 5. That's my problem, I guess!

(But I'm still not convinced about the ending ... )
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hillbilly on 01 March, 2013, 08:42:16 am
As Charlie Brooker might put it:  "I'd rather be be bummed in the mouth by Waldo than watch that shit again."
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 March, 2013, 06:52:21 pm
Because I am irredeemably shallow, I have fallen in love with Quest's "Destroyed In Seconds" (Freeview 38).  Fire, flood, natural disaster, explosions, crashes and extreme sports wonks face down, unconscious, and wearing something unorfadox (for e.g. motocross bike, snowmobile, a half-ton of angry pot-roast ect. ect.) for a hat.  No-one actually gets killed utterly to DETH on camera, although the occasional firefighter does get deaded discreetly in the background.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 08 March, 2013, 06:54:30 pm
Crufts.

Drop a tab of acid, lock the door, sit back and enjoy.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 18 March, 2013, 08:30:10 pm
Documentary on the life of Mstislav Rostropovich on BBC 4 at the weekend. it's still on iplayer. Facinating biography of a wonderfully musician and great human being. The anecdote about him flying all the way to Japan to play the Sarabande from Bach,s cello suite outside the house of a friend who had just lost a child then flying straight back to Europe without even knocking on their door raised a tear in my eye. such a generous spirit.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 21 March, 2013, 04:25:16 pm
Crufts.

Drop a tab of acid, lock the door, sit back and enjoy.

I caught a bit of Crufts. I've never watched it before. It's completely barmy.

Favourite was the woman who appeared to be exhibiting her footstool...

(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/crufts_zps6528961a.jpeg)

Also spotted Dougal off the Magic Roundabout.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Littlesox on 21 March, 2013, 10:50:33 pm
The Weather Forecast.

You will laugh your tits off.

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 21 March, 2013, 11:00:41 pm
Abigail's Party... the horror. It hasn't even got to the most excruciating bits yet but I feel compelled to keep watching.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 22 March, 2013, 09:25:36 am
Abigail's Party... the horror. It hasn't even got to the most excruciating bits yet but I feel compelled to keep watching.

I watched it again (from behind a cushion of course, to protect me from the social tension).

It's still wonderful and Alison Steadman's performance is as good as it gets.

But yes..compelling and excruciating. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gc8WVJQdO3A (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gc8WVJQdO3A)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 22 March, 2013, 09:39:34 am
I've seen it several times, but on each occasion I notice some new ghastly detail. Even though it is mentioned in the script, the absurdity of having a light fitting about 6" above the candelabra on the dining table hadn't occurred to me before  ;D

I see it as being more about marriage than social class. One of the things that makes it hard to watch is that undercurrent, occasionally bubbling up, of physical violence mixed in with the psychological abuse.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 28 March, 2013, 08:27:58 pm
Oh, man lab is back on. Only missed half the 1st ep... .
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 28 March, 2013, 10:59:43 pm
On BBC3, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/In_the_Flesh_(TV_series)

Missed Ep1, Ep2 was rather intriguing. A zombie drama without people running around screaming (in Ep2 anyway). Logical progression of the genre, I guess ...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bumper on 28 March, 2013, 11:10:11 pm
On BBC3, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/In_the_Flesh_(TV_series)

Missed Ep1, Ep2 was rather intriguing. A zombie drama without people running around screaming (in Ep2 anyway). Logical progression of the genre, I guess ...

I saw the first one but missed the second!

It's okay in a different, undead type way. At least its not a clone of that twilight or vampire diaries mush!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Juan Martín on 08 April, 2013, 12:52:49 pm
Not quite sure where to post this as you have just missed.... I caught the end of this on BBC 4 last night and googling it found that it is still available on i-player for a few days.

From the Sea to the Land Beyond: Britain's Coast on Film

Storyville: Made from over 100 years of BFI archive footage, From the Sea to the Land Beyond offers a poetic meditation on Britain's unique coastline and the role it plays in our lives. With a soundtrack specially created by Brighton-based band British Sea Power, award-winning director Penny Woolcock's film offers moving testimony to our relationship to the coast - during wartime, on our holidays and as a hive of activity during the industrial age
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 09 April, 2013, 05:46:48 pm
The Mimic is just lovely. (It really belongs in the thread we had about gentle feelgood comedy recently). Ch4 IIRC?

S2 of Parks & Recreation is much better than the first. (Apart from not having a single character I genuinely care about!)  BBC3?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 11 April, 2013, 10:57:59 am
The Century That Wrote Itself - BBC 4 last nigh and on iPlayer

Documentary about the 17th Century based on what people living then actually wrote, their letters and diaries.
Fascinating.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 12 April, 2013, 10:01:40 pm
Modern Family is always worth watching but tonight's episode was particularly brilliant. Superb Godfather homage. Highly recommended.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 12 April, 2013, 10:21:15 pm
Modern Family is always worth watching

+1
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 14 April, 2013, 10:28:25 pm
Endeavour. STV series about Morse as a young detective in the 50's

(You did know his first name was Endeavour, right?)

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 24 April, 2013, 06:12:56 pm
The Bear says you have to check out Great Bear Stakeout.  2100, BBC1/BBC1 HD; concludes same time tomorrow.  Watch out for the cameo by his cousin, The Stig Other Bear :P
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 26 April, 2013, 07:59:22 pm
The Bear says you have to check out Great Bear Stakeout.  2100, BBC1/BBC1 HD; concludes same time tomorrow.  Watch out for the cameo by his cousin, The Stig Other Bear :P

That guy was Howard Moon from The Mighty Boosh, and I claim Pingu's five pounds.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Manotea on 27 April, 2013, 09:33:13 pm
Under Seige or Commando?

 I think Commando, because it's the rarer treat.

"This Green Beret is gonna kick your ass" "I eat Green Berets for breakfast" "I can't stand all this macho bullshit"

"What happened to sulley?" "I let him go"

Of course, you all know the punchline to the old favourite: "Remember I said I'd kill you last..."
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 27 April, 2013, 09:46:55 pm
The Bear says you have to check out Great Bear Stakeout.  2100, BBC1/BBC1 HD; concludes same time tomorrow.  Watch out for the cameo by his cousin, The Stig Other Bear :P

That guy was Howard Moon from The Mighty Boosh, and I claim Pingu's five pounds.

He was the spitting image wasn't he?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Pingu on 27 April, 2013, 11:16:55 pm
The Bear says you have to check out Great Bear Stakeout.  2100, BBC1/BBC1 HD; concludes same time tomorrow.  Watch out for the cameo by his cousin, The Stig Other Bear :P

That guy was Howard Moon from The Mighty Boosh, and I claim Pingu's five pounds.

He was the spitting image wasn't he?

And the way he talked!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 30 May, 2013, 09:04:41 pm
The first series of the brilliantly dark Luther is being repeated, starting tonight, on the alibi channel (you'll find it in the deeper recesses of the Sky epg).

Repeated on Sunday if you miss it tonight.

Well worth watching if you didn't see it first time round.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 04 June, 2013, 09:02:33 pm
Town on BBC2 starting now is about Huddersfield tonight.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 04 June, 2013, 10:11:20 pm
Eggselent doco on the Voyager on BBC4 just finished.  Full of Carl Sagan and assorted Beards from the JPL  Looked out in vain for my chum Paul, but he's obvious;y not sufficiently qualibobobbed to  be allowed to appear on camera.  Or his beard in insufficiently academic...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 04 June, 2013, 10:22:06 pm
I am laughing a lot at the tweets about Huddersfield tonight after Town.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ewan Houzami on 05 June, 2013, 12:39:31 am
Beeb 4 prog about Cornelia Parker at the moment. She used to live in my flat, and there's still some of her naff and utterly pretentious work up in my loft. I'm watching in an attempt to gauge opinion about the moralities of whether, or how to flog it to some deluded collector.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Riggers on 05 June, 2013, 09:16:23 am
You sound like a professional art dealer.

If the game is Snakes & Ladders, move up a ladder.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ewan Houzami on 05 June, 2013, 05:47:19 pm
Sadly not. I'm more of the I don't know much about art, but I know that I don't like C Parker's combination of visual and verbal allusions that trigger cultural metaphors and personal associations, which allow the viewer to witness the transformation of the most ordinary objects into something compelling and extraordinary mobile of lead castings dangling from my roof joists by piano wire persuasion. It must be worth something to somebody though!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Riggers on 06 June, 2013, 03:07:21 pm
You hold on to it soldier. Given time, it might make a decent contribution to your pension!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 07 June, 2013, 07:06:04 pm
BBC4 looks good tonight - a profile of Bobby Womack and then Ike & Tina Turner, Wilson Pickett & Friends Live in Ghana (from 1971).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Von Broad on 07 June, 2013, 10:15:44 pm
a profile of Bobby Womack

love Bobby Womack
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: JennyB on 11 June, 2013, 05:21:45 pm
Town on BBC2 starting now is about Huddersfield tonight.

This week, Enniskillen (my home town)  :thumbsup:

I think this was before they knew about the G8 Summit coming - there's been a whole lot of fresh paint and tarmac lately!  ::-)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 12 June, 2013, 06:04:40 pm
Only just caught up with it but the documentary about Agnetha Faltskog is worth an hour of anyone's time.  Thirty-five years ago I should rather have thrown myself off a tall building than admit to liking ABBA; today I remember every word of the hits and don't know whether to laugh or cry.  What I do know is that as songwriters Bjorn and Benny are up there with the rude boys; doubly so since they were doing it in a FOREIGN language.

Mind you, I preferred Frida back then  :P
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 13 June, 2013, 06:04:55 pm
I've recorded it but I haven't watched it yet. I have bought her new album though. It's weird hearing her voice without the ginger one's in harmony with her.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 13 June, 2013, 07:43:01 pm
^ I saw that.  I didn't realise that Agnetha released four solo albums and was already very well known in Sweden before joining Abba.



A reminder that the cat program is on tonight.  BBC2 9 pm.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Rhys W on 13 June, 2013, 11:00:50 pm
Question Time from Edinburgh... and they've invited reactionary bawbag Nigel Farage onto the panel!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: IanDG on 13 June, 2013, 11:09:19 pm
Billy Elliot
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Exit Stage Left on 14 June, 2013, 11:40:22 am
Only just caught up with it but the documentary about Agnetha Faltskog is worth an hour of anyone's time.  Thirty-five years ago I should rather have thrown myself off a tall building than admit to liking ABBA; today I remember every word of the hits and don't know whether to laugh or cry.  What I do know is that as songwriters Bjorn and Benny are up there with the rude boys; doubly so since they were doing it in a FOREIGN language.

Mind you, I preferred Frida back then  :P

Anni Frid could really sing, and was winning competitions from 1964. She was a shy young mum back then, but she shone in performance.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHUGxTvkKis
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 14 June, 2013, 12:59:26 pm
They are both great singers, but the combination of them singing together is so special. I watched the documentary last night. I thought it was really touching how Agnetha said that when she's feeling down and lacking in confidence, she puts on The Winner Takes It All and reminds herself that she was involved in making  something so brilliant.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 29 July, 2013, 08:55:00 pm
Channel 5 +1 (Freeview channel 44) now (9 pm):  Steam Trains: Monster Moves.  A pair of vintage steam locos are transported 850 miles accross Turkey, before being shipped back to the UK.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biff on 29 July, 2013, 09:00:12 pm
Just watched that on Ch5. Splendid effort.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 31 August, 2013, 09:23:00 pm
Dusty Springfield on BBC4 later.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 07 September, 2013, 04:43:43 pm
Mr Blue Sky: The Story of Jeff Lynne and ELO.

BBC4 23:00 tonight.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 02 October, 2013, 08:00:54 pm
The Wrong Mans

(ok, not sure when it's on, we tape it ... )

Luckily I was not put off by the presence of James Corden (who isn't great); it's rather good, and a bit different  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: microphonie on 07 October, 2013, 06:34:48 pm
Not tonight but tomorrow: Dave Gorman's Modern Life is Goodish 22:00 on Dave - Powerpoint presentations about the minor things in life that irk him. Includes a poem made up from random comments trawled from the bottom half of the internet.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Salvatore on 08 October, 2013, 09:34:53 am
Tonight's TV schedule 60 years ago. All of it. (I dug around for this because it's my sister's birthday today. Not that I'm trying to make her feel old or anything. Certainly not.)

(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2890/10152098473_39bf8e8922_o.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/89773100@N02/10152098473/)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 08 October, 2013, 11:10:40 am
The air race sounds jolly good, old chap.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Salvatore on 08 October, 2013, 11:18:48 am
The air race sounds jolly good, old chap.  :thumbsup:
Some info here (http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7398/10153123646_102306ebc0_o.jpg)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 08 October, 2013, 11:19:45 am
The air race sounds jolly good, old chap.  :thumbsup:

Not full live coverage of the whole event though, I presume.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 08 October, 2013, 01:30:23 pm
Tonight's TV schedule 60 years ago. All of it. (I dug around for this because it's my sister's birthday today. Not that I'm trying to make her feel old or anything. Certainly not.)

(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2890/10152098473_39bf8e8922_o.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/89773100@N02/10152098473/)

I think that's "DAVE's" current Thursday schedule.

Shame to think that the Horse of the Year is now 40 year-old glue.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Salvatore on 08 October, 2013, 05:53:19 pm
The air race sounds jolly good, old chap.  :thumbsup:

Not full live coverage of the whole event though, I presume.
It started on the eighth. On subsequent days there was no TV coverage, but 2 daily 10-minute wireless bulletins on the Light Programme.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 10 October, 2013, 02:09:39 pm
The Ottomans: Europe's Muslim Emperors

On BBC 2 and iPlayer. Rageh Omaar's history of the Ottaman Empire. A bit light weight but interesting non the less.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: hillbilly on 01 November, 2013, 07:09:46 am
Bit of an uptick in new British comedies recently.  Two in particular:

Toast of London (C4 Sundays at 2230hrs).  Matt Berry plays an actor with delusions of brilliance.  Slightly surreal, mixing Mighty Boosh and Father Ted sensibilities.

Drifters (E4 Thursday 2130hrs).  Feckless girls having fun.  I thought I wouldn't like it.  I did.  Like 2 Pints etc and Inbetweeners in tone.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 01 November, 2013, 09:06:24 am
Toast Of London is brilliant. The second episode didn't quite live up to the utter bonkersness of the Bruce Forsyth lookalike business in the first episode but was still very funny. Matt Berry is superb.

Also absolutely loving the new series of Veep on Sky Atlantic. It's basically The Thick Of It transplanted to the White House.

Moving away from comedy, The Tunnel, also on Sky Atlantic is great too - it's an Anglo-French adaptation of The Bridge (Broen) and unlike the US remake of The Killing (Forbrydelsen) works just as well as the original. But that may just be because I'm totally besotted with Clemence Poesy.

And I'm also very much enjoying The Blacklist - an utterly preposterous US drama about a rogue CIA agent turned supergrass, played with typical relish by James Spader. Not highbrow by any stretch of the imagination but lots of fun.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 01 November, 2013, 08:16:18 pm
Can we please stop pluggin Sky-only stuff?!? Breaking Bad is frustration enough!

But yes, Toast of London is great. I think Billy's right about the Father Ted sensibilities.

My obscure US comedy 'Like' would be The Bitch in Apartment 23 (sp?). It's like an american attempt to do Father Ted style surrealism. Anyone that is annoyed by typical US comedy will probably hate it, but it has a lot more to offer if you give it 5 minutes.

(I assume everyone knows that Big Bang Theory started up again yesterday on E4? thought so, hardly needed mentioning, did it ... )
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruth on 01 November, 2013, 08:35:20 pm
I've had Letters to Juliet on with no sound on tonight, the few bits I've peered at have looked like marvellous vintage chick-flick stuff.  I may actually watch that properly tomorrow.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 03 November, 2013, 09:32:17 pm
Portillos great continental railway journeys.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: red marley on 03 November, 2013, 09:37:29 pm
Can we please stop pluggin Sky-only stuff?!? Breaking Bad is frustration enough!

Sign up for a one-month free trial on Netflix. Take a week off work and watch your way through all five series. Emerge a week later blinking into the light a changed person.

I'm with you on the Sky thing though. Murdoch can whistle for it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 03 November, 2013, 10:03:09 pm
Bob Servant, Independent.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 04 November, 2013, 10:38:43 am
I'm with you on the Sky thing though. Murdoch can whistle for it.

Nearly all the decent stuff on Sky is imported, so there are usually other ways to see it...

I'm no fan of Murdoch but we signed up to Sky because we can't get a terrestrial TV signal. There was no such thing as freesat back then. We could go freesat now, I suppose, but we've got the telly bundled with our phone and internet, so it wouldn't necessarily be any cheaper for us. And our internet connection is too rubbish for Netflix to be a viable option.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 04 November, 2013, 07:50:33 pm
And our internet connection is too rubbish for Netflix to be a viable option.
I'm 90% sure this is the case here, even without trying it! I must see if Lovefilm still do loss-leader offers with DVDs ...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 04 November, 2013, 08:01:53 pm
Portillos great continental railway journeys.
Bobb watched that yesterday and was impressed at the Milan tailor showing him the bolt of cloth marked as from Huddersfield. As discussed in the episode of Town about Huddersfield, it's the only town in the world which can add value to cloth by adding its name.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 05 November, 2013, 01:30:48 pm
Toast Of London is brilliant. . Matt Berry is superb Matt Berry.


FTFY

I never thought they'd successfully replace Chris Morris in "The IT Crowd" but they did.

" Faaaaatheeeeeerrrrrr"
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 06 November, 2013, 02:45:57 pm
New series of Masterchef: The Professionals started this week. I no longer bother with the regular version of Masterchef, and I've never bothered with the Celeb version, but I admit to rather enjoying the professionals - not least for the skills test, featuring Monica Galetti's extraordinary gurning as supposedly highly trained chefs flounder with basic culinary technique. If only they could get rid of the odious Gregg Wallace...

Last night, the "classic" recipe test set by Michel Roux was beer soup. That's soup made with beer. One I'll be trying myself, I think.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 08 November, 2013, 03:09:24 pm
New series of Masterchef: The Professionals started this week.

"Rancid, indigestible, acts against flavour, cuisine against the public. To combat it I've got special men - experts from the home, the pub, from restaurants - these are The Professionals."
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 08 November, 2013, 03:11:13 pm
 ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ferret on 08 November, 2013, 09:14:29 pm
cold war hot jets bbc 2 now interesting
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 08 November, 2013, 09:23:15 pm
Best ever Elvis song on STV just now. Yes, it's a cheap compilation of clips show, but the clips are Elvis.
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 18 November, 2013, 12:36:59 am
Yonderland.

Pratchettesque fantasy comedy-drama thing from the makers of Horrible Histories. Very funny. The top gag in this week's episode was disguising four truth-telling monks as estate agents.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 23 November, 2013, 11:21:52 am
BBC2 last night and now on iPlayer

Bach: A Passionate Life

John Eliot Gardiner attempts to get a handle on Bach the man and conducts excerpts of some of his music. Really excellent program from a conductor who has devoted much of his life to Bach's music.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 25 November, 2013, 08:30:33 am
Has anyone else been watching Man Down on C4? It's essentially a Mr Gilbert from Inbetweeners spin-off, in that it has Greg Davies playing a teacher who hates kids. Although he's a bit less sadistic than Gilbert, and a lot more socially inept.

Plus it has Rik Mayall as his dad and Mrs McClusky as his mum. And the hilarious Roisin Conaty as one of his best mates.

Totally off the wall, utterly puerile, cringingly painful at times and very funny. Think it might have finished now but it's worth catching up with on 4OD.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bumper on 25 November, 2013, 09:01:32 am
I've watched them all and found them hilarious.

Even though Rik is a dwarf compared to Greg, he could actually be his dad. They are extremely similar when side by side.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 25 November, 2013, 09:09:11 am
Not sure if they are still on, or in one case have ever been shown in the UK, but I am currently enjoying (for a certain value of enjoying) "Devious Maids", "Defiance", "Jo" and some series about a special force setup by the courts in Den Haag, the title of which escapes me (can you tell I am getting a lot out of that one? :) )

All good, apart from the last one :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 26 November, 2013, 02:55:25 pm
Last night's Masterchef was hilarious. It was the "Invention Test" round, when they give the chefs a selection of ingredients and an hour to come up with a knockout dish. Among the ingredients last night were pork sausages, which inspired one of the contestants to do a dish of "Sausages Three Ways". Monica was not impressed. The last contestant to present his dish had made a superb-looking pannacotta that went down rather better with the judges.

I wonder if you can guess from this picture which chef did the Sausages Three Ways and which did the pannacotta...

(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/ScreenShot2013-11-26at145012_zps184fac3f.png)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 12 December, 2013, 06:38:42 pm
BBC2 on Sunday night - The Happy Lands. It's a community-made film about a Fife mining community's experience of the General Strike.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 19 December, 2013, 12:39:54 pm
Caught up with Monday's Never Mind The Buzzcocks Xmas special last night, hosted by Johnny Vegas. Not normally a huge fan of the show and tbh I was only watching it because my son put it on. But I'm glad I saw it because it made me laugh until I hurt all over. Much of the humour stemmed from the fact that Johnny Vegas was clearly pissed - kind of tragic, really, bit of a car crash, but very, very funny. Worth catching up with on iPlayer.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: TimC on 19 December, 2013, 12:43:10 pm
Caught up with Monday's Never Mind The Buzzcocks Xmas special last night, hosted by Johnny Vegas. Not normally a huge fan of the show and tbh I was only watching it because my son put it on. But I'm glad I saw it because it made me laugh until I hurt all over. Much of the humour stemmed from the fact that Johnny Vegas was clearly pissed - kind of tragic, really, bit of a car crash, but very, very funny. Worth catching up with on iPlayer.

Yes, I saw it too. Priceless!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: CAMRAMan on 20 December, 2013, 09:00:01 am
At the other end of the scale, if you can handle it, watch John Pilger's Utopia on ITV's catch-up service. Hugely enlightening, but very depressing.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 20 December, 2013, 05:39:56 pm
Watched this almost by accident:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b03lz29w/The_Revolution_Will_Be_Televised_Series_2_Episode_6/

It seems I've missed rather a lot of these! I think I'd always assumed it was about the Gil Scott-Heron song  :facepalm:

Topical satire - but very influenced by Dom Joly in style. My favourite bit was the Israeli Embassy Expansion Team, who go around reclaiming local businesses.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 20 December, 2013, 06:52:30 pm
Just watching last night's Educating Yorkshire, and crying a bit at Musharraf.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: BrianI on 16 January, 2014, 08:19:59 pm
BBC1, Thursday Jan 16, 8pm -
Quote
New series. Documentary revealing the survival techniques used by the animal kingdom's smallest creatures. North America's Sonoran Desert is home to the grasshopper mouse, which is capable of disarming scorpions and centipedes twice its size, and displays a power and athleticism that enables it to avoid the attentions of rattlesnakes and tarantulas. In Africa, the elephant shrew, known as the sengi, employs speed to keep its distance from predators, following a meticulously constructed - and maintained - network of tiny racetracks in the savannah. The film concludes with Hidden Kingdoms Revealed, a 10-minute report on how the documentary was made. Narrated by Stephen Fry

Interesting documentary so far. Shame about the over use of "Epic Hollywood Style Sountracks" to add "drama" :-/

ETA - blue screen special effects in a nature documentary?!?!? 
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 16 January, 2014, 08:56:40 pm
Hostages - new US drama, possibly jumping on the Homeland bandwagon of Israeli source material. Ive forgotten what night it's on  :facepalm:

A promising/worrying combo on paper - stars Toni Collete, produced by Jerry Bruckheimer  :-\

On viewing Ep1, I think we were right to be worried. :( Has Colette been in anything else this bad?!?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Rhys W on 16 January, 2014, 08:57:07 pm
Charlie Brooker's Screen Wipe tonight is essential viewing. Essential for my sanity, that is.

"I'm Doug Stanhope, and that's why I drink".
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: red marley on 16 January, 2014, 10:23:36 pm
Because Philomena Cunk and Barry Shitpeas.

Quote
People say that Stewart Lee is funny, but he's never done anything as funny as that.                      And he never will.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biff on 27 January, 2014, 09:14:59 pm
Britain's Great War (with Paxman). Just started on BBC1. Looking v good thus far.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 27 January, 2014, 10:40:29 pm
The previews were pushing this, so I have recorded it. A meeting prevented me from seeing it live.
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 28 January, 2014, 08:15:58 am
[edit: post about Girls moved to own thread (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=79793.0) cos I think it deserves it]
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 28 January, 2014, 04:08:10 pm
Rococo - Waldemar Januszczak's exploration of Rococo art and architecture on BBC4 and iPlayer. The first episode was excellent, as good as his series on The Baroque.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bumper on 31 January, 2014, 09:17:33 pm
Just watching Channel5. People who had everything, then binned it all to live in the wild. Wish I had the bottle to do it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 01 February, 2014, 10:30:06 am
Because Philomena Cunk and Barry Shitpeas.

Quote
People say that Stewart Lee is funny, but he's never done anything as funny as that.                      And he never will.

Stewart Lee never has. Screenwipe is the funniest thing on at the moment.

I've been watching 'Uncle'. It won't stand the test of time, but it has its moments. Anybody spot a balding Nathan Barley in the last episode?

Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 01 February, 2014, 10:47:37 am
Saw the first two eps of Uncle, not the third yet. Very funny, but yes, ephemeral. I do love Nick Helm though. I first became aware of him when he was warm-up man at a comedy gig I went to a few years ago. He took about 30 seconds to have the whole audience in stitches. His turns on Eight Out Of Ten Cats Does Countdown are great too - love his flirting with Susie Dent.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 01 February, 2014, 10:55:18 am
I must admit I find his character a bitter clichéd. Bit like the fat guy in Shaun of the Dead.

I think its the other character s that make like the boy himself, or the cross-dressing proprietor of the gay club, and that wanker Bentley dealer at the party.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 01 February, 2014, 11:03:22 am
Agreed, total cliche, but what makes it really funny for me is that he reminds me an awful lot of a good friend. It's uncanny.

Cross-dressing nightclub dad is brilliant.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 01 February, 2014, 11:10:28 am
I think we've all had friends like that  ;D

The third episode has been the best yet. There are two points where you'll cringe ;)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Zipperhead on 01 February, 2014, 12:33:48 pm
Last night on BBC4 was "Sound City (http://www.bbc.co.uk/i/b03sltyb/)", which should almost have been subtitled "Sound City, and why the Neve mixing desk was so great"

Lots of interesting (and some great) musicians talking about how they came to record albums there and why it was so good, and Dave Grohl talking about why the Neve desk was so good.

Possibly it could have done with being split into two programs, one about Sound City and one about moving the desk to tthe 606 and the section that was afterwards (and I'm sure there was more stuff that could have been said/shown about the process of moving such an enormous piece of complicated analogue equipment)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruth on 04 February, 2014, 08:01:40 pm
Horizon = Solar Storms, on now.

Should fill up a nice chunk of the evening.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 05 February, 2014, 09:07:37 am
Possibly it could have done with being split into two programs, one about Sound City and one about moving the desk to tthe 606 and the section that was afterwards (and I'm sure there was more stuff that could have been said/shown about the process of moving such an enormous piece of complicated analogue equipment)

A classic bit with the remaining members of Nirvana cutting a track with Paul McCartney. Paul suggests adding some harmonies as an overdub and that will make it better so they do. Dave comments that he wishes it was always this easy and Paul replies "it is".
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 06 February, 2014, 01:08:54 am
Last night on BBC4 was "Sound City (http://www.bbc.co.uk/i/b03sltyb/)", which should almost have been subtitled "Sound City, and why the Neve mixing desk was so great"

Thanks for that.  I know very little about music, but I once had the opportunity to meet a Neve with its guts hanging out (they're every bit as pretty on the inside), and am generally in awe of the "it's transformers all the way down" approach.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruth on 06 February, 2014, 07:07:11 pm
Deep Blue Sea's on tonight!  Sharks!  Samuel L Jackson!  Hurrah!!!11!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1!!1
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 11 February, 2014, 10:11:46 pm
Anyone catch "Inside no. 9"? I've just watched the first episode on iPlayer, typically dark but funny, as we've come to expect from Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith, it could become a classic, only time will tell...
Yes. We liked it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 12 February, 2014, 10:07:22 pm
Just watched the first ep of the new series of Line Of Duty.

O

M

F

G

 :o
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 12 February, 2014, 10:09:29 pm
Now watching Inside No.9 (2nd ep). Three LOLs already. Genius.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 12 February, 2014, 10:40:17 pm
Gold star for the Beeb for tonight's telly. Outstanding work.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: StuAff on 12 February, 2014, 11:37:46 pm
Just watched the first ep of the new series of Line Of Duty.

O

M

F

G

 :o
Wasn't it, just? Brilliant stuff.
Inside No.9 recorded, last week's was great.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 13 February, 2014, 01:00:16 am
Line Of Duty was so good, I expected the characters to break out into Danish at any moment.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 13 February, 2014, 01:42:11 pm
You'll get this if you saw it...

(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/Screenshot2014-02-13at133658_zps2f635f85.png)

 ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 13 February, 2014, 11:10:39 pm
Line Of Duty was so good, I expected the characters to break out into Danish at any moment.

That's the one with the very nicely done trailer isn't it...I shall iplayer it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 13 February, 2014, 11:54:11 pm
This looks promising:
http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2014/feb/13/jonathan-meades-brutalism-a-z
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 14 February, 2014, 06:43:24 pm
This looks promising:
http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2014/feb/13/jonathan-meades-brutalism-a-z

Thanks that's on my list now.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: microphonie on 16 February, 2014, 10:05:02 am
Now watching Inside No.9 (2nd ep). Three LOLs already. Genius.

Superb, I was laughing my head off from the point the big dog wandered in near the beginning until ...

(click to show/hide)

They'll have to go a long way to improve on that episode...just superb
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 16 February, 2014, 08:11:51 pm
You'll get this if you saw it...

(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k170/smutchin/Screenshot2014-02-13at133658_zps2f635f85.png)

 ;D
Very good!

watched Ep1 last night. We were blimmin confused for the first 10mins, but in hindsight I can see that was hard to avoid. Really got into it later on. The ending [or at least the window element] was a bit of a shock  :o
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 19 February, 2014, 11:36:31 pm
Ep2 just as good. Fewer window moments but still breathtakingly gripping. Adrian Dunbar is superb, and I have to revise my previously low opinion of Keeley Hawes - she's playing for the bafta judges in this.

Wednesday has suddenly become top telly night - Line Of Duty, Inside No 9, Outnumbered, Suspects*, and just starting tonight on BBC4 was the new Michael Mosley series about parasites, which I've had to record the repeat of later in the week cos it clashes with several of the above.

*C5 police procedural - no Line Of Duty but worth watching.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 20 February, 2014, 12:01:50 am
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p01mv2md/hd/Dissected_The_Incredible_Human_Hand/

(Not for the squeamish, for obvious reasons.)

As barakta once famously said "Most people are born with thumbs, and are given thumbs to play with from an early age.", and there's a lot of thumb-pr0n in this.  The programme shows some of the more subtle aspects of why hands are really cool, and how we use them to do different tasks - day to day stuff that we never really bother to think about.

Worth watching, and unless you're in the body-fettling business, you'll probably learn something.

(We've just spent half an hour comparing our use of grips for some common tasks, and discovered that recessed multimeter knobs are one thing that barakta's hands really don't have a good way of doing.)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: red marley on 20 February, 2014, 06:29:15 am
Ep2 just as good. Fewer window moments but still breathtakingly gripping. Adrian Dunbar is superb, and I have to revise my previously low opinion of Keeley Hawes - she's playing for the bafta judges in this.

Absolutely. Can't wait for next week. I love all the shifting balance of power affecting many of the characters. It also passes the Bechdel test with flying colours.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 20 February, 2014, 02:02:04 pm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p01mv2md/hd/Dissected_The_Incredible_Human_Hand/

(Not for the squeamish, for obvious reasons.)

As barakta once famously said "Most people are born with thumbs, and are given thumbs to play with from an early age.", and there's a lot of thumb-pr0n in this.  The programme shows some of the more subtle aspects of why hands are really cool, and how we use them to do different tasks - day to day stuff that we never really bother to think about.

Worth watching, and unless you're in the body-fettling business, you'll probably learn something.

(We've just spent half an hour comparing our use of grips for some common tasks, and discovered that recessed multimeter knobs are one thing that barakta's hands really don't have a good way of doing.)

we watched that - it was well cool!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 20 February, 2014, 05:38:05 pm
Wednesday has suddenly become top telly night - Line Of Duty, Inside No 9, Outnumbered, Suspects*,
We've taped the 3 without asterisks!

But you forgot BBC3's weekly dry academic documentary. What was it called .... oh yes,  The Truth about Webcam Girls (http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/tv/reviews/the-truth-about-webcam-girls-tv-review-a-peep-show-that-reveals-how-online-intimacy-is-far-from-fantasy-stuff-9139527.html). Didn't see much, but it was quite interesting! Possibly not in the right forum/thread ...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 20 February, 2014, 05:47:31 pm

BBC3's weekly dry academic documentary.

;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 24 February, 2014, 07:11:00 am
Now watching Inside No.9 (2nd ep). Three LOLs already. Genius.

Superb, I was laughing my head off from the point the big dog wandered in near the beginning until ...

(click to show/hide)

They'll have to go a long way to improve on that episode...just superb
We watched 2&3 last night.

Ep2 justifies my licence fee. Ep3 couldn't compete, but was still great.
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 28 February, 2014, 08:17:53 pm
And a new series of Jonathan Creek starts tonight on BBC1.. And he is married. Wonder if they'll use the same old windmill.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 05 March, 2014, 05:07:43 pm
Not on tonight but Maxine Peake is back in Silk :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: red marley on 05 March, 2014, 11:25:15 pm
Stewart Lee's latest Comedy Vehicle, currently on iPlayer. Absolutely perfectly crafted meticulous comedy that had me laughing out loud more than anything I can remember in the last few years. If probably helps being the same age, living in the same bit of London with a similar outlook and a tendency towards self-analysis and smart arsedness. Hilarious.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 06 March, 2014, 07:50:04 am
I fell asleep during the 'phone conversation'. I found it all a bit tired, and to be honest I think he's ripe for putting out to pasture, or, if there isn't the goodwill, being euthanased. He's read his own reviews and believed them, he's trying to trade on being 'clever', but his cachet of melding a bit of Mark Thomas with a bit of Jack Dee and covering it with viscous gelatinous smug seems pretty pedestrian up against the unpredictable danger and excitement of people like Frankie Boyle.

And what was that horseshit with Chris Morris? Really? Is that the best they could do with those resources?

Watching Stewart Lee was like watching Lee Mack on diazapam, but without the humour.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 06 March, 2014, 02:59:53 pm
Oooh.  A split opinion.
He's read his own reviews and believed them.
From his website it looks as if he does read his reviews (youtube and message boards, at least)
Quote
"A cultural bully from the Oxbridge Mafia who wants to appear morally superior but couldn't cut the mustard on a panel game."
Lee Mack, Mack The Life, 2012

"A sneering tosser." Rowing Rob, Guardian.co.uk

"Smug elitist liberalism. Who is this cunt?" Tokyofist, Youtube

"I hate Stewart Lee with a passion. He's like Ian Huntley to me." Wharto15, Twitter

"Stuart Lee = Cock." Brendon, Vauxhallownersnetwork.co.uk

"Stewart Lee is a massive asshole." Secretdeveloper, Youtube

"I saw him at a gig once, and even offstage he was exuding an aura of creepy molesty smugness." Yukio Mishima, dontstartmeoff.com

"I used to think stewart lee was quite good, then i spoke to him at edinburgh festival. Arse doesn't cover it. Ah well." Bobby Bhoy, Twitter

"Stewart Lee. Boring as hell and unfunny." Peter Ould, Twitter

"Five minutes of Stewart Lee makes me want to kill myself . Completely unfunny, dated, painful SHIT." Anon, westhamonline.com

"One man I would love to beat with a shit covered cricket bat." Joycey, readytogo.net

"The most overrated smug twat ever." Syhr, breakbeat.co.uk

"A small, sad man." FBC, finalgear.com

"Stewart lee is a shit comedian doing a shit impression of a shit comedian. If he was burned alive it could raise serious cash." Mrdavisn01, Twitter

"I hope stewart lee dies." Idrie, Youtube

"Fuck this Stewart Lee twat, fuck anyone that agrees with him, and FUCK PC." Mearecate, Youtube

"3rd rate comedian and politically correct maggot." Anonymous, The Northfield Patriot

"All this man seems to be able to do is dance about going "ah ha ha ha ha ha!' So incredibly unfunny." Emilyistrendy, Youtube

"Is Stewart Lee supposed to be funny? Because he's really not." Keilloh, Twitter

"Lee was a good comic. Unfortunately now he comes across as a chaotic drunk." Foxfoxton, Youtube

"See that stupid look on his face....you just know he would have that exact same facial expression if he was getting the kicking of his life. He's a total dick cheesecake." Neva2busy, dontstartmeoff.com

"Stewart Lee, I will shove my thick cock in your throat you gay lord." Hiewy, Youtube

"Prime example of a well educated looooooser." Rudeness, Youtube

"If this is supposed to be a "Comedy Vehicle," maybe someone should call the RAC to get it started." Gwaites, Digitalspy

"If this is supposed to be a "Comedy Vehicle," someone had better call the RAC to get it started." Gmanthedemon, bbc.co.uk

"If this is supposed to be a "Comedy Vehicle," someone had better call the RAC to get it started. Or push it down hill. Stewart Lee should have 'cunt' stamped onto his forehead with a branding iron."' Coxy, Dontstartmeoff.com

"Stewart Lee should jump in his 'comedy vehicle' and drive it off a very high cliff. Whoever this youth is, he sounds about as funny as three weeks of really bad weather!" Shane, Beverley, Dailymail.co.uk

"I want to run Stewart Lee over in his own comedy vehicle." Robert Gavin, Twitter

"Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle seems to be driving itself up his backside." Jamespearse, Twitter

"Only a Sun reader could mistake this dross for intelligent comedy. Probably laughs at farting noises too. Here's to hoping this particular vehicle runs off the road. Under a train." NevW47479, UKTV.co.uk

"Comedy vehicle? more of a comedy 'right off!'" Guest, Dontstartmeoff.com

"The boringly infantile Stewart Lee." Peter Ould, Youtube

"This guy sure knows how to run a joke into the ground." Mpf1947, Youtube

"I tried to watch Stewart Lee but had to stop due to him being shit. He addressed an insular cadre of socially challenged, prematurely middle-aged, pseudo-intellectual men, I thought." Z-factor, Twitter.

"Stewart Lee isn't funny." Slothy Matt, Twitter

"Liberals like this guy would just love to live in totalitarian state where only their views could be expressed and opposition views crushed. They are childish hypocrites. They should stop reading the guardian and get in the real world." 12dgdgdgdgdgdg, Youtube

etc.

 Looks like you're not alone in your opinion Flatus. As for me, I'm with Jo and other socially challenged, prematurely middle-ages, pseudo-intellectual men like him.  He makes me laugh.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 06 March, 2014, 05:18:13 pm
You seem to be insulting Jo there.  ;)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Chris S on 06 March, 2014, 08:12:12 pm
Now watching Inside No.9 (2nd ep). Three LOLs already. Genius.

Superb, I was laughing my head off from the point the big dog wandered in near the beginning until ...

(click to show/hide)

They'll have to go a long way to improve on that episode...just superb

Yes. I larfed a lot! It had the air of Futtocks End (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Futtocks_End) about it; but darker.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 06 March, 2014, 10:16:07 pm
You seem to be insulting Jo there.  ;)
Yes, but he makes me laugh.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 07 March, 2014, 07:04:07 am
Now watching Inside No.9 (2nd ep). Three LOLs already. Genius.

Superb, I was laughing my head off from the point the big dog wandered in near the beginning until ...

(click to show/hide)

They'll have to go a long way to improve on that episode...just superb

Yes. I larfed a lot! It had the air of Futtocks End (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Futtocks_End) about it; but darker.

Thanks to this thread I've just watched the first two episodes.

First one was a masterclass of acting and dialogue.

The second was a masterclass of acting but no dialogue.

Best BBC comedy for years.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 07 March, 2014, 07:20:35 am
Oooh.  A split opinion.
He's read his own reviews and believed them.
From his website it looks as if he does read his reviews (youtube and message boards, at least)
Quote
"A cultural bully from the Oxbridge Mafia who wants to appear morally superior but couldn't cut the mustard on a panel game."
Lee Mack, Mack The Life, 2012
...<snip>
Thanks Nuncio. That is a brilliant review portfolio. :)

(It almost trumps the one in Wasp Factory, except they are 'proper' reviews, not InterWeb keyboard cowboys.)

I've now watched the new Stewart Lee, and it is very funny. (but I also like Lee Mack when he's on form, dunno what this proves. Something about spice of life and variety I guess ... )
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruth on 11 March, 2014, 08:41:32 pm
Things are really  hotting up on the Great British Sewing Bee!  It's prom dress week next, I can't wait. 

I do like a properly hemmed hem.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 12 March, 2014, 10:41:01 pm
Line Of Duty tonight... Breathtaking.

Inside No.9 was pretty awesome too.

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: gene hunt on 12 March, 2014, 11:31:11 pm
Line Of Duty tonight... Breathtaking.

Agreed, it has been excellent, really looking forward to the end now.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 13 March, 2014, 03:21:15 pm
Live from Space, Ch 4 9:00 p.m. Dermot O'Leary at the Johnson Space centre with guest Astronaut, talking about Astronaut stuff. Last night was about life on th ISS and had some good footage and sections.

Tonight is apparently called 'Houston' we have a problem' and is, as the title suggests, about how Astronauts deal with problems.

Dermot may not be some folks cup of beverage but, I get the impression he is a frustrated astronaut so, he is like an enthusiastic kid in a sweet shop- just like I would be if doing this programme
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Dibdib on 13 March, 2014, 03:59:34 pm
Live from Space, Ch 4 9:00 p.m. Dermot O'Leary at the Johnson Space centre with guest Astronaut, talking about Astronaut stuff. Last night was about life on th ISS and had some good footage and sections.

Tonight is apparently called 'Houston' we have a problem' and is, as the title suggests, about how Astronauts deal with problems.

Dermot may not be some folks cup of beverage but, I get the impression he is a frustrated astronaut so, he is like an enthusiastic kid in a sweet shop- just like I would be if doing this programme

Yup. Loved every minute of it... that Dermot wasn't on screen. Waste of perfectly good airtime IMO.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 13 March, 2014, 09:28:26 pm
Live from Space, Ch 4 9:00 p.m. Dermot O'Leary at the Johnson Space centre with guest Astronaut, talking about Astronaut stuff.

Agreed - excellent telly.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruth on 16 March, 2014, 02:59:12 pm
They've re-jigged the mighty Cosmos, as originally presented by Carl Sagan, RIP.

Trouble is it's on National Geographic, which I don't have.  But if you do, let me know what you think!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bumper on 20 March, 2014, 08:23:59 am
I think Davina is on tonight, with her sport relief effort.

Bbc1 9pm.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 24 March, 2014, 05:28:04 pm
Having slagged off Stewart Lee, the UKIPs episode was superb.....kind of predictable and that sort of reduction absurdam has been done before but rarely with such incisiveness. The sketch on the beach was brilliant.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: spindrift on 24 March, 2014, 07:01:49 pm
I think Davina is on tonight, with her sport relief effort.

Bbc1 9pm.

Did you watch? Notice the bit after Windemere when she said something like "I came back didn't I?"

Bit melodramatic.

I can't stand the woman, awful screechy tawdry programmes, but I've massive respect for what she achieved, she dug deep and succeeded.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruth on 24 March, 2014, 07:03:53 pm
The really awesome thing about that,
(click to show/hide)
  Massive respect.  I mean, HOW?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bumper on 24 March, 2014, 07:08:44 pm
I did watch and was very impressed by her achievement.

The people knocking it for her seeking attention have missed the whole point, it needed lots of attention to help raise money.

The people knocking it for how much it must have cost have also missed the point. If this country has a disposable £££ and it raised ££££££££ for a poorer nation or people who aren't as fortunate as us, job done.

WELL BLOODY DONE DAVINA  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: spindrift on 24 March, 2014, 07:28:45 pm
£2.4m. chapeau.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bumper on 24 March, 2014, 07:41:33 pm
£2.4m. chapeau.

Chapeau indeed  8)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 20 April, 2014, 04:32:41 pm
Fargo, the tv series, C4 tonight. I may be watching through my fingers, the film is one of my favourites.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 20 April, 2014, 06:52:03 pm
Fargo, the tv series, C4 tonight. I may be watching through my fingers, the film is one of my favourites.

The reviews seem to be good, the Coens were actually involved and it's got Billy Bob Thornton.  The omens are good.

OTOH, 10 episodes is quite a commitment...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 20 April, 2014, 07:20:37 pm
Downfall appears to be on iPlayer.

After so many Youtube parodies, I feel it's my duty to watch it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 27 April, 2014, 06:05:11 pm
If you have Sky Sports, there's FINA world series diving on just now. Sky being arseholes, they're only showing the male & female 10 metre platform finals, but they've blocked live streaming of the rest of the weekend's competition.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 27 April, 2014, 06:08:20 pm
Downfall appears to be on iPlayer.

After so many Youtube parodies, I feel it's my duty to watch it.

You won't find it a chore. Its gripping.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 27 April, 2014, 06:12:00 pm
And he really does have a point about the trams.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 27 April, 2014, 06:58:18 pm
Fargo, the tv series, C4 tonight. I may be watching through my fingers, the film is one of my favourites.

The reviews seem to be good, the Coens were actually involved and it's got Billy Bob Thornton.  The omens are good.

OTOH, 10 episodes is quite a commitment...

Episode 1 was really good.  Thornton was truly menacing, especially the scene when he was stopped by the traffic Cop (which reminded me of the Gas-Station attendant scene in "No Country for Old Men").
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rogerzilla on 27 April, 2014, 08:09:12 pm
Don Giovanni, the ROH production.  It's very very good.  Don Ottavio is suitably wussy, Don Giovanni is suitably sleazy and Donna Anna sings like a lark.  Not sure about Il Commendatore yet, but he's always better dead.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rogerzilla on 27 April, 2014, 09:44:00 pm
Not sure about the staging, but the singing is pretty spot on.  "Non mi dir" always brings a tear to my eye...I want it at my funeral.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 27 April, 2014, 10:03:00 pm
Nah.

You're getting Benny Hill
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 24 May, 2014, 09:03:00 am
Not tnight, but last night, a Fast Show special. 20th (!) Anniversary special.

It was the first of two parts, think the second is on next week.

Oddly enough, it still works.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 24 May, 2014, 12:54:44 pm
iPlayer currently has an assortment of Horizon episodes dating back to the 60s.  Including the 90s Fermat's Last Theorem one which in my mind represents the turning point where BBC science output went shit.  Plenty of Feynman and space rockets.  What's not to like?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/group/p01qvnmd
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Basil on 24 May, 2014, 01:30:45 pm
Is it me, Kim?  Or are those Horizon episodes "Watch Only"?
I don't see a download option.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 24 May, 2014, 01:45:41 pm
Is it me, Kim?  Or are those Horizon episodes "Watch Only"?
I don't see a download option.

Hadn't noticed that.  I'm on Linux, so the download option doesn't work for me anyway (I have to spawn get-iplayer in another window).  But yes, I'm not seeing a download option for them either.

Get-iplayer does appear to do the business, thobut.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 24 May, 2014, 09:57:14 pm
Not tnight, but last night, a Fast Show special. 20th (!) Anniversary special.

It was the first of two parts, think the second is on next week.

Oddly enough, it still works.

It really does.   :thumbsup:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b044jzs8/the-fast-show-special-episode-1

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bumper on 26 May, 2014, 06:37:19 pm
Part 2 is on tonight :thumbsup:

Today I 'ave mostly been plodding 'round the house.

Which was nice ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: microphonie on 08 June, 2014, 05:06:13 pm
Late notice but at 17:30 today there's Inspire: the Olympic Journey - a profile of IoM cyclist Jonny Bellis & his recovery from the accident he had a few years ago
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Chris S on 08 June, 2014, 06:37:12 pm
#iplayer

How the Wild West was won - Ray Mears.

Stunning photography, and interesting stuffs from Mr Mears.

Just watched the first instalment - which includes an account of how the Cherokee befriended the first settlers and taught them how to survive in the Appalachians, only for the government to then round them all up and ship them off on the Trail of Tears. Sigh...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Wowbagger on 10 June, 2014, 10:38:34 pm
I watched "Pointless" this evening and it seemed to me that one of the guys in the final was deprived of a pointless answer because he had a slight speech impediment. The winning pair were from Cardiff and in the final they decided to name three member of the Welsh team that beat England in the 6 Nations in 2013. They chose, in order, Justin Tipurik, Matthew Hibbard and Toby Faletau.

Hibbard is, of course, completely wrong: his name is Richard, not Matthew, but the guy mispronounced Tipuric's name and called him Triptych. He had been having a bit of trouble with his pronunciation two or three times in the programme. Justin Tipuric was a pointless answer. Luckily, Toby Faletau was also a pointless answer so they won their £2000 anyway, but it was perfectly obvious to me that the guy was doing his best to get his tongue around the word "Tipuric" but just couldn't do it. It reminded me of the mispronunciation which has allowed Oldham Athletic to be namd "Thlatic".
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: madcow on 10 July, 2014, 11:10:09 pm
Any body else watching A Sunday in Hell-Paris Roubaix 1976 on BBC 4 NOW!!!!!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: jsabine on 11 July, 2014, 12:31:32 am
Any body else watching A Sunday in Hell-Paris Roubaix 1976 on BBC 4 NOW!!!!!

Yup. It's another world, both in terms of the racing (or at least the dress, the cars, the TV equipment ...) and in the style of the documentary. Great chunks of time where the pictures and the untranslated foreign dialogue are allowed to speak for themselves.

Got me checking the details of the Paris-Roubaix Challenge too ...

It reminded me of the mispronunciation which has allowed Oldham Athletic to be namd "Thlatic".

That's not a mispronunciation, more a contraction - they've been Latics (or t' Latics) since the dawn of time.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 11 July, 2014, 03:33:06 pm
I recall my Dad lending me SIH years ago. For about 10 mins I thought it was great.

Then I realised there was going to be an awful lot of untranslated foreign dialogue ...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Dibdib on 11 July, 2014, 03:40:51 pm
I got half-way through it before I succumbed to sleep. I very much hope they're able to put it on iPlayer so I can watch the rest tonight.


ETA: Woo! http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b0074qhx/a-sunday-in-hell (available until 00:44 18/07/2014)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 20 July, 2014, 10:53:06 pm
Watching the python on Gold.. Some good parts. Best bit was Brian COx being pedantic about the 'just remember' song and being run over by Stephen Hawking in a wheelchair.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 22 July, 2014, 01:12:20 am
Just watched "Rich Hall's California Stars".  The gravel-voiced one is on good form.  Repeated at 22:30 on Wednesday July 23, BBC4.  We approve of this product and/or service.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 22 July, 2014, 08:21:50 am
Is Banshee any good?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 22 July, 2014, 08:25:47 am
Advance notification for those with ESPN.  Film of Richard Moore's Slaying the Badger at 19:00-20:30 on Sunday 27/7. Review here (http://inrng.com/2014/07/film-review-slaying-the-badger/). For those without ESPN, I think it's being shown on 'terrestrial' TV some time during the Tour of Britain.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 22 July, 2014, 10:29:16 am
Is Banshee any good?

Banshee is an improbable premise and each episode is liberally scattered with gratuitous sex and violence.  Which may not sound like quality television, but some of the characters are quite good and I suppose it's well-made for what it is.  Currently, series 2 is running on Sky Atlantic.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruth on 28 July, 2014, 09:58:11 pm
Children of Syria.  BBC2.

Great telly.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 28 July, 2014, 09:59:46 pm
Children of Syria.  BBC2.

Great telly.

+1
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 07 August, 2014, 09:00:56 am
Andrew Graham Dixon's Art of China on BBC4. Missed the first one but saw the second last night. Some extraordinary ceramics and paintings. They looked like they could have been done in the first half of the 20th century but were from the 11th and to 13th century ! He got fantastic access to stuff in the vaults of Chinese museums that only comes out once every 10 years or so.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 21 August, 2014, 12:19:13 pm
Bright Lights, Brilliant Minds

Vienna 1908. Excellent I hope the next two on Paris and New York are as good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: jsabine on 01 September, 2014, 10:06:59 pm
Metroland - John Betjeman presents suburbia and the Metropolitan Line ...

BBC4 right now.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: spindrift on 04 September, 2014, 11:44:27 am
Sheridan Smith on WDYTYA tonight.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Asterix, the former Gaul. on 04 September, 2014, 12:29:14 pm
Sheridan Smith on WDYTYA tonight.

You win!  You can't beat celeb-watching.  I remove my clashing suggestion lest I cause anyone to miss Sheridan Smith. :o
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: spindrift on 04 September, 2014, 01:30:21 pm
Diss Sheridan and I WILL FIGHT YOU. Shortly to be seen as the bellowing scouse foghorn:

(http://i2.cdnds.net/14/34/618x411/uktv-cilla-sheridan-smith-03.jpg)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: sg37409 on 04 September, 2014, 11:01:34 pm
ITV4 had Lemond Slaying the Badger on.
 :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
La Vie Claire tops were the coolest in cycling.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: spindrift on 05 September, 2014, 11:05:13 am
Actually, WDYTYA was shit on toast, that series has jumped the shark, there are way too many establishing shots and lame voiceovers and minor celebs sobbing their hearts out at the sad stories of relatives they hadn't chuffing heard of five minutes previous. Sheridan Smith was milking it for all it was worth. 2/10 would not watch again.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 05 September, 2014, 12:01:09 pm
I don't normally have much time for WDYTYA but my wife loves it so I often end up watching it by default and I actually rather enjoyed the one last week with Brendan O'Carroll (aka Mrs Brown), which focused on the fascinating story of his grandad, an IRA man who was murdered by British militia - just goes to show that it's not necessarily your favourite people who have the most interesting family stories.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Dibdib on 05 September, 2014, 02:21:48 pm
ITV4 had Lemond Slaying the Badger on.
 :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
La Vie Claire tops were the coolest in cycling.

I enjoyed that. It's on ITV Player too, if anyone wants to catch up.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 06 September, 2014, 09:23:14 pm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b04gnhv7/castles-in-the-sky

Recommended to me as "like Micro Men, but with valves instead of membrane keyboards".  With Eddie Izzard.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Chris S on 06 September, 2014, 10:21:25 pm
Not tonight - on catchup.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b04grp09/horizon-20142015-4-inside-the-dark-web

Actually, quite interesting. Scary, if you believe such things. I've had dealings with ToR through work. Really excellent tech, thoroughly open to the Dark Side of the human psyche. It's a tricksy thing - balancing freedom, with the in-built human desire to fuck each other over.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 07 September, 2014, 11:37:33 pm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b04gnhv7/castles-in-the-sky

Recommended to me as "like Micro Men, but with valves instead of membrane keyboards".  With Eddie Izzard.   :thumbsup:
Just watched that on I-thing. V good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 September, 2014, 06:03:20 am
Every time I walk through the lobby here the TV is showing Joan Rivers' funeral.  Fox "News", natch.

So the answer is, of course, "nothing".
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bumper on 10 September, 2014, 10:16:30 pm
All creatures great and stuffed

On ch4 now. There are some weirdos that do some weird shit.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Deano on 10 September, 2014, 10:19:05 pm
Some Boffins with Jokes on BBC2 now :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 10 September, 2014, 11:26:00 pm
Secrets Ep1 was very good.
10:35ish, 2 to go.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 13 September, 2014, 10:02:10 pm
Last night of the proms, as ever.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Clare on 13 September, 2014, 10:52:39 pm
Me too, Roderick Williams has a wonderful voice.

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Vince on 16 September, 2014, 11:32:16 am
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b04gnhv7/castles-in-the-sky

Recommended to me as "like Micro Men, but with valves instead of membrane keyboards".  With Eddie Izzard.   :thumbsup:
Just watched that on I-thing. V good.
+1 I'm totally impressed by Eddie Izzard's acting ability. Actually, I didn't realise it was him until the end  :hand:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 29 October, 2014, 08:28:58 am
Not really tonight, but any night if you have Amazon Prime Instant*.

Constantine, the TV series of the graphic novels.

Only seen the first so far, but if the rest keep up the standard it should be a good series.

Thanks to Andygates, via FB, for the heads up.

*or wish to test an offsite backup
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: spindrift on 29 October, 2014, 03:28:47 pm
Anyone see that N Irish bloke in the thing about the missing kid? Getting amazing reviews.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 12 November, 2014, 08:48:26 pm
David Attenborough inthe Himalaya. Fascinating.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 14 November, 2014, 06:27:07 pm
Tonight: Children In Need some paint drying.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 15 November, 2014, 09:38:16 am
Last night on BBC4 and now on iPlayer  - Johnny Cash: The Man, His World, His Music

A 1969 documentary about the man in black. No voice-over just a camera following him in concert, on tour and talking to friends, relatives and the public. Riveting.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Zipperhead on 15 November, 2014, 11:33:11 am
I watched some of it, it was fabulous. I must download it on iplayer so that I can enjoy all of it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 16 November, 2014, 10:07:06 pm
22.40 tonight on More 4.

The Plane that Saved Britain. The Mosquito documentary in case you missed it last time.

ETA. Not sure how long it will be available (http://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-plane-that-saved-britain/4od)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Vince on 16 November, 2014, 11:17:16 pm
Last night on BBC4 and now on iPlayer  - Johnny Cash: The Man, His World, His Music

A 1969 documentary about the man in black. No voice-over just a camera following him in concert, on tour and talking to friends, relatives and the public. Riveting.
Its on again at the moment.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 17 November, 2014, 08:58:08 pm
On in about 3 minutes, Gotham, on 5.

Obviously it follows the story of Gotham City, pre The Dark Knight, in fact Mr Wayne is still in short pants.

Worth watching.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrew on 21 November, 2014, 08:49:13 am
Gillian Anderson's voice/accent on 'The Fall' has finally gotten to me. No more.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrew on 28 November, 2014, 12:14:22 pm
On in about 3 minutes, Gotham, on 5.

Obviously it follows the story of Gotham City, pre The Dark Knight, in fact Mr Wayne is still in short pants.

Worth watching.

I've just watched the latest episode.

And, yes, very much worth watching. It's brilliant TV, a top-down first rate production with some incredibly intense and accomplished performances. You see baddies in their ascendance, Oswald Cobblepot (The Penguin) is my fave. Boy he has fun in that role! And his mum will correct your pronunciation of their surname! A young catwomen, Harvey '2 face' Dent, The Riddler (have you spotted him yet??!), Poison Ivy, the list goes on... Great fun and great TV.

Shows once again that US television (the new cinema darling!) is a much superior product (at its best) to anything out of the UK.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 28 November, 2014, 12:31:00 pm
Gotham seems to be getting better and better, which is mirrored in the TV execs extending the series from 16 episodes to 22!

The Riddler was easy to spot, his mug of coffee gave him away :)

Poison Ivy and Two Face were a bit harder, though.

The baddy in the last episode (Victor Zsasz) was brilliantly played, he scared the shit out of me!

Having Sean Pertwee as Alfred is a bit of a stroke too!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrew on 28 November, 2014, 01:17:14 pm
Having Sean Pertwee as Alfred is a bit of a stroke too!

Yes, agreed. How did I forget to mention him??!

Pertwee plays the role so well; a gentrified east London gangster. Hints of unfathomable depths of violence behind a waistcoat and 'sir'-ing. I reckon he had a bit of a liberty with his dialogue too (or there's a Londoner on the script writing team!) because some of his vocab is pure east end (not Van Dyke mockney either!) and guaranteed to baffle US audiences.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 28 November, 2014, 01:17:58 pm
Gillian Anderson's voice/accent on 'The Fall' has finally gotten to me. No more.

Never seen it but I have it "taped".  What accent is she doing?  She grew up in London btw.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrew on 28 November, 2014, 01:32:59 pm
I believe she lived in London (Islington??) for 4 years, ages 10 through 14... so didn't really 'grow up' there. She moved about a bit as a kid though, a US forces family as I recall, so probably her accent moved around equally. I believe she got the piss taken out of her when the family finally settled back in the US. That kind of thing tends to shape you - I know, as a little pommie kid growing up in NZ, I got used to being 'different'.

Anyways, her accent in 'The Fall' (and it's as much vocal mannerisms as accent) is definately not north London! It's a kind of clipped, upper class-ish slow and precise delivery that defies exact localisation. I find it hugely irritating.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrew on 28 November, 2014, 01:41:14 pm
Back to Gotham, and I hope this isn't a spoiler, '2 face' is probably schizophrenic rather than disfigured. I think that's a neat reworking but may, of course,  be shortlived. As it's still early days, he may yet suffer the injury that gives him his moniker/alter ego. At the moment though, there's just the hint of Jekyll & Hyde.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 28 November, 2014, 02:06:33 pm
Back to Gotham, and I hope this isn't a spoiler, '2 face' is probably schizophrenic rather than disfigured. I think that's a neat reworking but may, of course,  be shortlived. As it's still early days, he may yet suffer the injury that gives him his moniker/alter ego. At the moment though, there's just the hint of Jekyll & Hyde.

There is also a discussion, out there on the web, about how he is a lot older than Bruce Wayne, but in the comics/films he is about the same age.

Some liberties have been taken, but none, I think, that spoil the stories or timeline.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Wobbly John on 10 December, 2014, 09:37:22 pm
It's half over now, but Forbidden History on Yesterday - programme about Nichola Tesla should appeal to many forumites - There's a guy with a million volt Tesla in his lock-up on at the moment!  :D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Asterix, the former Gaul. on 12 December, 2014, 01:39:31 pm
Anyone see that N Irish bloke in the thing about the missing kid? Getting amazing reviews.

Yes, I may have done.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 12 December, 2014, 05:14:15 pm
Anyone see that N Irish bloke in the thing about the missing kid? Getting amazing reviews.

Yes, I may have done.

Yes.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 14 December, 2014, 10:48:12 pm
Olive Kitteridge, miniseries on Sky Atlantic with Frances McDormand. Downbeat and gently paced sharp and funny, reminiscent of Alexander Payne. Good stuff.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 26 December, 2014, 10:27:51 pm
Olive Kitteridge, miniseries on Sky Atlantic with Frances McDormand. Downbeat and gently paced sharp and funny, reminiscent of Alexander Payne. Good stuff.

Thanks for that - enjoyed it very much - Frances McDormand was tremendous.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 29 December, 2014, 09:15:59 am
The Royal Institution Christma Lectures ~ BBC4, 20:00.  Professor Danielle George on "How To Hack Your Home", or, Kim-ness For Beginners.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 29 December, 2014, 10:40:14 am
'Agatha Raisin and the quiche of death' made for relaxing, brain off viewing. Was the Roose Boltons bastard being the gay PA that I saw?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 29 December, 2014, 02:28:19 pm
The Royal Institution Christma Lectures ~ BBC4, 20:00.  Professor Danielle George on "How To Hack Your Home", or, Kim-ness For Beginners.

I suppose I probably ought to watch that, then...   :D


ETA:  Just did.  I know that cool demos and handwaving are what the Christmas Lectures are all about, but it did seem to be a rollercoaster ride of introducing more and more quite complex technologies and not really elaborating on them at all.

But I'm struggling to think of how I'd do it any better.  Maybe focus on smaller aspects of the project (I'm sure I could fill a whole lecture on ways to light up a window), but that's missing the point of what engineering a whole system is about.

Anyone got kids of the appropriate age?  What did they make of it?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 30 December, 2014, 10:33:11 pm
Too busy stuck on their PEDs.[1]
They'll probably watch it on iPlayer.


[1] No. Personal Electronic Devices.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 31 December, 2014, 11:14:06 am
Was the Roose Boltons bastard being the gay PA that I saw?

Haven't seen Agatha Raisin yet but I can tell you that Yara Greyjoy plays Quaint Irene in the new adaptation of Mapp & Lucia on BBC1. Which isn't all that good, tbh (from my PoV as a big fan of the books).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 31 December, 2014, 03:03:23 pm
The Royal Institution Christma Lectures ~ BBC4, 20:00.  Professor Danielle George on "How To Hack Your Home", or, Kim-ness For Beginners.

I suppose I probably ought to watch that, then...   :D


ETA:  Just did.  I know that cool demos and handwaving are what the Christmas Lectures are all about, but it did seem to be a rollercoaster ride of introducing more and more quite complex technologies and not really elaborating on them at all.

But I'm struggling to think of how I'd do it any better.  Maybe focus on smaller aspects of the project (I'm sure I could fill a whole lecture on ways to light up a window), but that's missing the point of what engineering a whole system is about.

Anyone got kids of the appropriate age?  What did they make of it?
A pretty fair review! It seemed like "A Grand Idea" that never truly fitted together. The Raspberry Pi "bullet time" demo was good though, hadn't seen that done before :)

I'd quite like to hear how the budget compared with previous years. Maybe Ep2 will be massively cheap ...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 03 January, 2015, 11:42:12 pm
The Royal Institution Christma Lectures

*Much* better in episodes 2 and 3.  Completely handwaved most of the systems integration glue ("MIDI is a programming language that's a bit like sheet music" is about the right level, and allowed them to go on to discuss latency issues later) and concentrated on smaller aspects of the various shiny technologies in order to demonstrate something specific (from optic fibre to pepper's ghost to haptics to feedback loops).  Bonus points for making a phone call to the ISS, getting Faraday's original motor out, Doctor Who references, an anthropomorphic robot playing the theramin and prodding the back end of a cow in the virtual uterus.   :thumbsup:

For the entertainment of the over-30s in the audience, they wheeled on a h4xx0red dot-matrix printer, and then had to explain what a dot-matrix printer was.   :D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 03 January, 2015, 11:51:12 pm
SHame they didn't have a chain printer.. ferocious beasts.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 03 January, 2015, 11:52:53 pm
SHame they didn't have a chain printer.. ferocious beasts.

Not quite as musical, thobut.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 03 January, 2015, 11:56:22 pm
At least they were true to form and played the only tune that is ever played on large pieces of physics equipment as a demo.  Just missing the sparks and the Tesla Coils.
(Beethoven's Ninth SYmphony - Ode to Joy)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 06 January, 2015, 04:47:11 pm
Poncy middle-class fans of subtitled crimethings might like to know that the next series of "Engrenages" aka "Spiral" starts this coming Saturday (January 10th) in the usual BBC4 poncy middle-class subtitled crimething slot of 21:00.

As a fully paid-up member of the poncy middle-class crimething fan er, class, I shall be setting the Infernal Machine.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: CAMRAMan on 06 January, 2015, 04:51:28 pm
Well, now I am a postman, I can no longer claim to be middle class, but still will be tuning in on Saturday. It will be a bit of a shock to the system after the far more gentle Inspector Montalbano. Laughs a-plenty? You're 'avin' a larf!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 06 January, 2015, 05:12:26 pm
I missed the previous series of Spiral. Will I need to catch up or is it safe to jump on board with the new series?

My recent Saturday evening middle class ponce hour has been devoted to The Legacy on Sky Arts, but frankly it's a bit dull (not enough murrrrders) so I'd be happy to switch to different middle class ponce fare.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 06 January, 2015, 06:05:45 pm
9 pm Channel 4, 24 Hours in Police Custody.

10 pm BBC Four, Smiley's People.

http://www.freeview.co.uk/whats-on/tv-guide
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 06 January, 2015, 11:14:08 pm
Just finished watching (so should be on Iplayer) Smiley's People.  From 1982!  Damn, it was good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: JennyB on 07 January, 2015, 11:57:52 am
Just finished watching (so should be on Iplayer) Smiley's People.  From 1982!  Damn, it was good.

"Vladi's been shot.  It wasn't  an accident or suicide, or anything like that."  Funny what you remember for 32 years. Quality  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 08 January, 2015, 09:39:20 pm
The Super-Rich and Us.

I think this will strike a chord with many of us on yacf. I really like Jacques Peretti as a presenter.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 10 January, 2015, 02:56:51 am
I missed the previous series of Spiral. Will I need to catch up or is it safe to jump on board with the new series?

I can't actually remember much of the previous series but the first one I saw was series 3 and it still made enough sense.

In the meantime I am keeping up my ponciness quota by watching a dodgy download of series 1 of "Broadchurch", with French subtitles.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: perpetual dan on 10 January, 2015, 01:45:46 pm
Not tonight at all, but I watch pretty much everything delayed...
Walking the Nile on C4. Partly the usual "going on an adventure" looking at the animals and natives, done in a viewer is aware of the camera crew (or lack of) way. But, for added interest, we have: robbed by gun runners, watching on the spot beatings by the police, and death of a co-traveller from heatstroke.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 10 January, 2015, 08:35:42 pm
In the meantime I am keeping up my ponciness quota by watching a dodgy download of series 1 of "Broadchurch", with French subtitles.

Bah!  I had Tom pegged as the Murderer, probably because Adam Wilson played the Psycho Teen in last week's "Silent Witness".
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: IanDG on 10 January, 2015, 08:58:52 pm
Anything on BBC1-4? It's all we can get in the Western Isles since Thursday's storm. Mind you I'm lucky, Harris are getting hot food deliveries as they have been wirthout power since Thursday!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 11 January, 2015, 11:57:54 pm
O noes!  I'm in love with Audrey Fleurot all over again.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 14 January, 2015, 05:00:58 pm
Scanning the distascope guide for something tonight I was drawn to "Welding Disaster Specials".  A bit out there for 5, I thought.

Oh.  Wedding Disasters :(
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: CAMRAMan on 14 January, 2015, 05:03:39 pm
O noes!  I'm in love with Audrey Fleurot all over again.
Hands off, she's mine...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 14 January, 2015, 06:51:12 pm
Scanning the distascope guide for something tonight I was drawn to "Welding Disaster Specials".  A bit out there for 5, I thought.

Oh.  Wedding Disasters :(

No hope that they could combine the two?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Deano on 14 January, 2015, 09:05:41 pm
The Life of a Mountain: a Year on Scafell is just starting on BBC4. Looks worth a watch.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: loafer on 14 January, 2015, 11:57:18 pm
The Life of a Mountain: a Year on Scafell is just starting on BBC4. Looks worth a watch.

just watched it on I player  ;D  stunning also this from ctc forum   Publicity film March 1939 for launch of the new Austin 8 hp saloon car. Fascinating footage showing detailed climbs over many famous passes. I imagine that most of the tracks are now metalled roads .
http://www.austin-eight.com/apps/videos ... 39-youtube

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Deano on 16 January, 2015, 08:48:26 pm
He is, isn't he. Fell runners are astonishing anyway - in terms of just going about their business, they (almost) make audaxers look like auditionees for I'm a Celebrity.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Peter on 17 January, 2015, 05:03:27 pm
Joss Naylor deserves to be far better-known, though I doubt if he would enjoy it.  Fell running is indeed very special, Dean and has its own heroes.  I think the reason that the so-called elite athletes tend not to take part is that (apart from it not fitting their plans) is that it's just simply too hard - and not a little dangerous.  I only tried two fell races, though I used to run over the moors a lot and once ran the Lyke Wake Walk.  I did the Three Peaks race in my late twenties or early thirties and did a respectable time.  However, the winner, Jeff Norman, finished about an hour ahead!  I was like a sheet when I came in, apparently.   It's a big regeret that t I've been warned off running because of arthritis, otherwise I'd still be on the moors most days.  But running's loss is cycling's gain, I hear nobody say!

My only beef with the programme was that it spent too much time on the talking heads and not enough on just the scenery:  you couldn't even have got odds on a Wainwright-related interview or ten minutes with Eric Robson.


Edit - sorry, that's all about me and not the programme.  I just got carried away by reminiscence!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: CAMRAMan on 18 January, 2015, 03:40:07 pm
O noes!  I'm in love with Audrey Fleurot all over again.
Someone give her a hairbrush!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 18 January, 2015, 06:06:51 pm
I aten't watched yesterday's yet but I'd be quite happy to take my hairbrush over to Paris and give her a hand with the brushing ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 22 January, 2015, 01:01:53 am
Voyager: To The Final Frontier.  First broadcast in October 2012; on iPlayer for another 29 days.  Spacecraft go walkabout in the outer reaches of the solar system.  Contains Carl Sagan, as himself.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 22 January, 2015, 10:12:30 am
Voyager: To The Final Frontier.  First broadcast in October 2012; on iPlayer for another 29 days.  Spacecraft go walkabout in the outer reaches of the solar system.  Contains Carl Sagan, as himself.

Realised this was on and started watching from the approach to Jupiter. Was very good. That last image from Voyager 1. Thought provoking in exactly the way Carl Sagan would have it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 22 January, 2015, 10:53:29 pm
Catastrophe - Sharon Horgan co-written rom-com on C4. Ep1 Bloody brilliant. No idea who the yank is,  but he's pretty funny.

some very ... "robust" humour,  but with a good heart.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 23 January, 2015, 12:05:31 am
Rob Delaney. He is indeed very funny. Worth following on Twitter - completely mental, in a brilliantly funny way. Haven't seen Catastrophe yet but have heard good things.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 23 January, 2015, 12:51:35 am
Horizon: Can We Make A Star On Earth?  BBC4 delves into the vaults again with this 2009 offering.  Floppy-haired cleverness dispenser Brian Cox on nuclear fusion.  Ignore the "Brian Cox on a mountain-top" footage - it's part of his contract.  Ignore also the fact that his Mustang changes from a coupé without a front number plate to a convertible with one, and back again, on a shot-by-shot basis as he ponces around southern California.  Probably needed a bit more SCIENCE and a bit less poncing around but much better than for e.g. HorridCockneys or "Celebrity" Big Brother.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 23 January, 2015, 07:18:28 am
The first episode of the BBC's adaptation of Wolf Hall on iPlayer as I missed it earlier this week. It was very good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 23 January, 2015, 05:57:27 pm
Rob Delaney. He is indeed very funny. Worth following on Twitter - completely mental, in a brilliantly funny way. Haven't seen Catastrophe yet but have heard good things.
Some wonderfully insane tweets there. remind me of the News Ticker on The Day Today.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 24 January, 2015, 11:48:52 am
Catastrophe. Superb. Very funny. The dinner party scene was priceless.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 25 January, 2015, 02:22:50 pm
After an ingominious DNF with the book,  can't bellieve I'm saying this:

Wolf Hall - very very good. Cromwell was just amazing.

(It was all a bit like the better-done Shakespeare - I often got lost in the plot/political detail,  but was in no doubt of the sentiment of each scene and confrontation. And the reviewers say it gets a bit less opaque next week :)

Of course if you know the relevant history,  you won't struggle at all!)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 30 January, 2015, 06:20:32 pm
BBC4, 22:00 - doco about Kraftwerk.  Could be interesting, if not chock full of laughs.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Exit Stage Left on 30 January, 2015, 06:45:14 pm
BBC4, 22:00 - doco about Kraftwerk.  Could be interesting, if not chock full of laughs.

I must record ' Sound of Song' at 9pm on BBC 4, last week on the impact of tape on music was excellent.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 30 January, 2015, 11:17:19 pm
Ghostbusters is on ch5 right now.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 31 January, 2015, 11:03:33 am
BBC4, 22:00 - doco about Kraftwerk.  Could be interesting, if not chock full of laughs.

I recorded this, but can't play it for technical reasons (mention in the Grumble thread).  Did I miss much?

I'm not enough of a fan to have their records, but I enjoy'm on the radio and like music documentaries in general.  I could iPlayer it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 31 January, 2015, 12:43:27 pm
They all seem a little non-plussed about their popularity.

They're not exciting to watch but delightfully precise in that undefinable Germanic way. Massively influential, lets face it, having Grand Master Flash as a fan and being credited with the invention of hip hop can't be all bad, can it?

And they all ride bicycles. (One of the very few bands I could think of who have written songs about cycling, Mungo Jerry notwithstanding.)

Watch it on i-Player. Have a beer and chill. Definitely a cut above C4 & 5 with their 'List 10/20/50/100 things and get a load of overpaid wankers to spout off the stuff we already know about' progs.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 31 January, 2015, 03:20:26 pm
Thanks Torslander.  My recording has come back to life; I'll watch it now.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 31 January, 2015, 04:01:07 pm
Another convert. My work here is done . . .
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 31 January, 2015, 10:08:03 pm
BBC4, 22:00 - doco about Kraftwerk.  Could be interesting, if not chock full of laughs.

I must record ' Sound of Song' at 9pm on BBC 4, last week on the impact of tape on music was excellent.

Missed this when broadcast in real time; Hurrah! for get_iPlayer.  Quite fascinating and confirmed my suspicion that Auto-Tune is the jbex of Stan and needs to be deleted from the universe.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 31 January, 2015, 10:45:50 pm
Now watching the Kraftwerk wossname.  Paul Morley is, in his own way, just as much of a ponce as ponce-for-hire Stephen Bayley.

Can't think why anyone would pay to see them live though ???
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 01 February, 2015, 08:27:09 pm
Now watching the Kraftwerk wossname.  Paul Morley is, in his own way, just as much of a ponce as ponce-for-hire Stephen Bayley.

Can't think why anyone would pay to see them live though ???

For the amazing 3d graphics and to hear the music at volumes you just don't get at home I suspect.
Excellent documentary, I had missed the Computer Love/Talk ((Coldplay) connection but once it's pointed out it's ridiculously obvious. It seems on that Coldplay gave Ralf Hutter a writing credit for it and asked him before they used it. Apparently he wrote back saying 'Yes, you can use it, and thank you very much for asking my permission, unlike that bastard Jay-Z'."
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 07 February, 2015, 12:56:39 am
Tonight has been Genesis wall to wall on BBC4.

i haz a happy . . .
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: runsoncake on 08 February, 2015, 12:54:22 am

Wolf Hall - very very good. Cromwell was just amazing.

(It was all a bit like the better-done Shakespeare - I often got lost in the plot/political detail,  but was in no doubt of the sentiment of each scene and confrontation. And the reviewers say it gets a bit less opaque next week :)

Of course if you know the relevant history,  you won't struggle at all!)
Don't know much about history 1
But I am gripped by the slowly building tension and political intrigue, also sooo want Cromwells hat, do they do a Merino version?

1 Sam Cook "Wonderful World" 1960  (keeping plagiarism lawyers away since 1998)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 February, 2015, 01:51:48 pm
O noes!  I'm in love with Audrey Fleurot all over again.
Someone give her a hairbrush!

She seems to have found it, presumably while clearing out Pierre's flat before his parents showed up.  I note that Grégory Fitoussi is still listed in the opening credits
(click to show/hide)
.  It's all shaping up nicely for the dénouement and I'm away next weekend and won't be able to watch it until late Monday chiz.

Also, Caroline Proust is a cyclist :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 08 February, 2015, 09:24:55 pm
Wolf Hall is just blowing me away. No unnecessary soundtrack, no dumbing down. Fantastic sets and lighting with sparse dialogue. There is a lot of silence in it. Everything is conveyed with a look, a touch or a short pithy bit of dialogue.
The book is brilliant as well, I,m just starting on it at the moment.

As an aside I also watched the documentary on Tyndale's bible. Melvin Bragg claimed Tyndale's is forgotten today and that almost no one knows who he was, really ? I would think anyone with a passing interest in either Tudor or religious history would know who Tyndale was.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 08 February, 2015, 10:17:54 pm
just caught up with this week's Ep - agree with all the above.

Except the tyndale business - never heard of him! (although I do know who Jane Seymour was :P )

its good fun playing "what have we seen _him_ in before???"
I'm embarased to say i may never have seen Mark Rylance before. And I'm kicking myself for not remembering Claire Foy was in the Promise. (this is a lot easier with imdb, isnt it?)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 09 February, 2015, 04:07:11 pm
Except the tyndale business - never heard of him! (although I do know who Jane Seymour was :P )

Didn't she play Solitaire in "Live And Let Die"?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: CAMRAMan on 09 February, 2015, 04:26:27 pm
O noes!  I'm in love with Audrey Fleurot all over again.
Someone give her a hairbrush!

She seems to have found it, presumably while clearing out Pierre's flat before his parents showed up.  I note that Grégory Fitoussi is still listed in the opening credits
(click to show/hide)
.  It's all shaping up nicely for the dénouement and I'm away next weekend and won't be able to watch it until late Monday chiz.

Also, Caroline Proust is a cyclist :thumbsup:
Yebbut, there's no way she's going to give birth to that baby, is there?

I'm sure there's a joke to be had about Audrey and briefs, but maybe that's best left dangling.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 09 February, 2015, 04:39:42 pm
Dr Larrington and I were speculating about this last night and concluded that a life of domestic bliss with Gilou was just what the scriptwriter ordered for the already-commissioned series 6.  If Gilou doesn't get killed utterly to DETH by an angry husband first.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: CAMRAMan on 09 February, 2015, 06:53:57 pm
Well, there's scope for a troublesome menage a trois with TinTin. Maybe Josephine could join in for a very French scenario.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Asterix, the former Gaul. on 10 February, 2015, 10:49:27 am
It could be YOU :o

Not in front of the telly: Warning over 'listening' TV (http://)

Quote
The warning applies to TV viewers who control their Samsung Smart TV using its voice activation feature.
When the feature is active, such TV sets "listen" to what is said and may share what they hear with Samsung or third parties, it said.
Privacy campaigners said the technology smacked of the telescreens, in George Orwell's 1984, which spied on citizens.

..Samsung said: "If a consumer consents and uses the voice recognition feature, voice data is provided to a third party during a requested voice command search.

So, yeah, you too could appear on telly soon.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: delthebike on 10 February, 2015, 03:55:47 pm
I don't know if it's "worth watching" but a short documentary involving cycling London to Brighton (not sure if it's the charridee ride or not). 1930 London Live on Freeview

"Following five youngsters from different backgrounds as they cycle from London to Brighton, examining the transformative potential of the bicycle in bringing people together"
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 14 February, 2015, 11:31:26 pm
just caught up with this week's Ep - agree with all the above.

Except the tyndale business - never heard of him! (although I do know who Jane Seymour was :P )

its good fun playing "what have we seen _him_ in before???"
I'm embarased to say i may never have seen Mark Rylance before. And I'm kicking myself for not remembering Claire Foy was in the Promise. (this is a lot easier with imdb, isnt it?)

Just been put onto this by the elder gentlemen of my acquaintance. Watched the first four episodes back to back tonight.

Brilliant. Pacing is superb. No intrusive music. Minimal but clear dialogue. Acting. Tension. Cold blooded threats. Cromwell's 'interview' with Henry Purcey was a masterpiece.
The tension and intrigue is fantastic - the playing out of the conflict in Cromwell over the trial of Thomas More was superb.

And then Norfolk (I think) gets all thick of it and potty mouthed at just the right amount of belligerence.

Can't wait for Wednesday.

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: CAMRAMan on 16 February, 2015, 02:13:05 pm
Dr Larrington and I were speculating about this last night and concluded that a life of domestic bliss with Gilou was just what the scriptwriter ordered for the already-commissioned series 6.  If Gilou doesn't get killed utterly to DETH by an angry husband first.
Rather a damp squib of an ending, I must say.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 16 February, 2015, 06:09:12 pm
I only realised  Oz was a gurl on reading the cast list in the Radio Times!  Nice to see Maitre Karlsson back to her old ways though.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: CAMRAMan on 17 February, 2015, 12:13:51 am
I'm not sure a Jimmy Nail character would've gone down well. Do you reckon Roban's in for a bit of rumpy-pumpy in series 6? Not sure I'd want to witness that...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 17 February, 2015, 08:17:25 am
I'm sure Arsene Wenger Juge Roban had a romantic interest in an earlier series but I don't feel up to 36 hours of subtitled Stuffs today, doubly so since both series of "The Bridge" are still in my to-be-watched pile.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: CAMRAMan on 17 February, 2015, 05:59:50 pm
Ah, Broen/The Bridge; the only series with a female lead character, Saga Norén, who makes Engranages' Laure Berthaud look like a well-balanced individual.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 17 February, 2015, 06:05:43 pm
Laure has benn getting steadily more normal over the years.  By the time she retires or is killed utterly to DETH she'll have turned into Juliet Bravo.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 18 February, 2015, 08:45:27 am
Wolf Hall is brilliant, have caught up with the first 4 episodes and am looking forward to tonight's episode.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 18 February, 2015, 08:59:02 am
Heads up for Saturday: Reginald D Hunter's Songs Of The South.  BBC2, 21:00.  Three-part road trip through the southern US exploring the place through its music.  As a confirmed USAniaphile this appeals.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 19 February, 2015, 12:02:31 am
Wolf Hall is brilliant, have caught up with the first 4 episodes and am looking forward to tonight's episode.
And so it develops.. Next week will be great.
Definitely a slow burner of a series. Proper acting with more said unspoken than in the lines.
 
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 19 February, 2015, 08:32:02 am
Wolf Hall is brilliant, have caught up with the first 4 episodes and am looking forward to tonight's episode.
And so it develops.. Next week will be great.
Definitely a slow burner of a series. Proper acting with more said unspoken than in the lines.

Due a bout of the lurgy I missed it, shall DL it and try to watch it tonight.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 19 February, 2015, 06:35:55 pm
Heads up for Saturday: Reginald D Hunter's Songs Of The South.  BBC2, 21:00.  Three-part road trip through the southern US exploring the place through its music.  As a confirmed USAniaphile this appeals.
Dya think Rich Hall was asking for too much money?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 20 February, 2015, 08:48:19 am
Perhpas Rich Hall is, well, er, y'know, a bit too white.  BRITAIN gets Messrs Hunter and Hall while the USAnians get Piers Moron and Craig Ferguson.  Win :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Psychler on 20 February, 2015, 06:22:59 pm
RAAM 2014 tonight Europsort 9pm
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 24 February, 2015, 02:23:12 pm
Heads up for Saturday: Reginald D Hunter's Songs Of The South.  BBC2, 21:00.  Three-part road trip through the southern US exploring the place through its music.  As a confirmed USAniaphile this appeals.

My grate frend Frank recommended this to me.  I downloaded it and watched it whilst doing the vebavat.  Ded gud it was. Can't wait for the next episode.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: davelodwig on 24 February, 2015, 06:26:50 pm
Heads up for Saturday: Reginald D Hunter's Songs Of The South.  BBC2, 21:00.  Three-part road trip through the southern US exploring the place through its music.  As a confirmed USAniaphile this appeals.

Back in the day I was part of a collective putting on interesting club nights that mixed music, comedy, dancing, art and video into experiences rather than jumping up and down to deafining drum and bass. Reginald D Hunter was doing a set (for free cos he's ace) and I bumped into him in the yard at the back of the venue where we'd stashed all the old flightcases and created a bit of a wonderland smoking area. He's a jolly nice chap, even shared his vodka with me, was very pleased when he started appearing on that tellybox thing.

D.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 25 February, 2015, 08:06:57 pm
Dante's Peak is on!  Pierce Brosnan invalidates his car hire warranty, oh yes.  That's my evening sorted.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 25 February, 2015, 09:38:47 pm
Wolf Hall is just blowing me away. No unnecessary soundtrack, no dumbing down. Fantastic sets and lighting with sparse dialogue. There is a lot of silence in it. Everything is conveyed with a look, a touch or a short pithy bit of dialogue.
The book is brilliant as well, I,m just starting on it at the moment.

As an aside I also watched the documentary on Tyndale's bible. Melvin Bragg claimed Tyndale's is forgotten today and that almost no one knows who he was, really ? I would think anyone with a passing interest in either Tudor or religious history would know who Tyndale was.

I've been up his monument a few times
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 25 February, 2015, 11:13:26 pm
Last episode of Wolf Hall. Awesome. Is there a sequel?

The lighting was fantastic - Absolutely brilliant (or not as it left all the corners in shadow). The plot moves with a relentless beat. You know the eventual outcome, but how the mighty fall. Cromwell as the bull terrier of Tudor England.

Great TV - more please BBC. Though definitely a bit of license with the chronology of the book.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: jsabine on 26 February, 2015, 01:18:24 am
Having been a bit of a dozy sod and not got started to Wolf Hall, I find Ep 1 has vanished from Auntie's magnificent iPlayer.

I don't suppose anyone happens to have an, um, backup that could do with being stored offsite? I'd be more than happy to inspect it for integrity.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 26 February, 2015, 02:24:59 am
Watched the Reginald D Hunter wossname tonight.  It was teh Aces.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 26 February, 2015, 07:41:33 am
You've Been Framed was odd last night - mostly rubbish but there was a great clip of some middle-aged woman falling down the stairs.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 26 February, 2015, 09:45:21 am
Watched the Reginald D Hunter wossname tonight.  It was teh Aces.

It's his RADA training luvvee.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 26 February, 2015, 10:32:11 am
Watched the Reginald D Hunter wossname tonight.  It was teh Aces.

It's his RADA training luvvee.

See this?  That's me not caring ;D  Proper intelligent TV interspersed with Mr Larrington pointing at the box and shouting "Ooh, I got stuck in a traffic jam there!"
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 26 February, 2015, 10:38:55 am
Watched the Reginald D Hunter wossname tonight.  It was teh Aces.

It's his RADA training luvvee.

See this?  That's me not caring ;D  Proper intelligent TV interspersed with Mr Larrington pointing at the box and shouting "Ooh, I got stuck in a traffic jam there!"

I often enthral my wife with interesting anecdotes such as "I cycled through there on <insert name of Audax>" during "A Place in the Country".

She never ever gets bored of my Audaxing tales, nor the gin and the Valium either.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 26 February, 2015, 12:53:41 pm
Having been a bit of a dozy sod and not got started to Wolf Hall, I find Ep 1 has vanished from Auntie's magnificent iPlayer.

I don't suppose anyone happens to have an, um, backup that could do with being stored offsite? I'd be more than happy to inspect it for integrity.

Ah. I can help in this regard.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 26 February, 2015, 01:00:18 pm
You've Been Framed was odd last night - mostly rubbish but there was a great clip of some middle-aged woman falling down the stairs.

Are you sure you weren't watching the programme celebrating the success of the music industry, "You've Been Farmed"?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 26 February, 2015, 01:56:07 pm
It may well have been. My mum doesn't usually let me watch ITV so I'm not all that familiar with its content.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 26 February, 2015, 03:58:53 pm
Hopefully a few reruns of that middle aged woman falling down the stairs will liven up tonight's TV :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 26 February, 2015, 06:56:48 pm
Having been a bit of a dozy sod and not got started to Wolf Hall, I find Ep 1 has vanished from Auntie's magnificent iPlayer.

I don't suppose anyone happens to have an, um, backup that could do with being stored offsite? I'd be more than happy to inspect it for integrity.
No, but the same thing happened to a colleague whom I persuaded to watch this!

My advice is the same - its probably watchable starting from Ep2. If you really struggle you can lookup all the history! But I don't think you will; its not really that kind of story.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 26 February, 2015, 07:09:12 pm
Having been a bit of a dozy sod and not got started to Wolf Hall, I find Ep 1 has vanished from Auntie's magnificent iPlayer.

I don't suppose anyone happens to have an, um, backup that could do with being stored offsite? I'd be more than happy to inspect it for integrity.
No, but the same thing happened to a colleague whom I persuaded to watch this!

My advice is the same - its probably watchable starting from Ep2. If you really struggle you can lookup all the history! But I don't think you will; its not really that kind of story.

Dropbox is busy doing something useful.  jsabine, I'll PM you in a bit.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 26 February, 2015, 07:24:20 pm
The Reginald D Hunter music thingy, it's good, courtesy of iPlayer.

That will be followed by the last episode of Wolf Hall.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 26 February, 2015, 08:50:24 pm
Hopefully a few reruns of that middle aged woman falling down the stairs will liven up tonight's TV :thumbsup:
Ze fallen Madonna with ze big bruises?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: jsabine on 26 February, 2015, 10:44:23 pm
Having been a bit of a dozy sod and not got started to Wolf Hall, I find Ep 1 has vanished from Auntie's magnificent iPlayer.

I don't suppose anyone happens to have an, um, backup that could do with being stored offsite? I'd be more than happy to inspect it for integrity.
No, but the same thing happened to a colleague whom I persuaded to watch this!

My advice is the same - its probably watchable starting from Ep2. If you really struggle you can lookup all the history! But I don't think you will; its not really that kind of story.

Dropbox is busy doing something useful.  jsabine, I'll PM you in a bit.

It did, you did. I am now in a position to confirm the file's integrity (not to mention fail to comment on the historical accuracy or rigour of the book adaptation), for which much thanks.

And what's more I've fettled MediaBrowser onto our NowTV box, so we can watch stuff on the telly rather than on the computer, without need for transcoding or popping large files onto a USB stick. (We are late developers when it comes to any of this media server or Smart TV malarkey.)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 26 February, 2015, 10:53:40 pm
Hopefully a few reruns of that middle aged woman falling down the stairs will liven up tonight's TV :thumbsup:
Ze fallen Madonna with ze big bruises?
due to a "radio 1" policy at wrok, I've been hearing about this all day. (very irritating, as it happens)

After EGs post, i feel no compulsion to watch the video - it can't possibly compare.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 27 February, 2015, 07:12:17 pm
BBC4, 21:00 tonight, Joy Division.  I'm not a big fan of JD but this still promises to be interesting.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Von Broad on 27 February, 2015, 07:35:39 pm
BBC4, 21:00 tonight, Joy Division.  I'm not a big fan of JD but this still promises to be interesting.

Yeah, I'll be checking that out too. I never listen to them now, but if ever there was a rock&roller who got lost in their own despair, never able to see beyond his own personal hell, and believing in it, it was Ian Curtis, and boy some of the stuff on those two albums expressed that.

Must admit, I didn't like 'Control'.....just found it a bit tedious and self-indulgent [which was fair enough actually, because it was about Curtis more than anything], but this looks a bit more interesting as regards placing him in the context of the band. Brilliantly unique sound they had too.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 27 February, 2015, 08:09:17 pm
Also interesting is Peter Hook's book/audiobook: Unknown Pleasures.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 28 February, 2015, 12:10:07 am
Turns out the JD programme dates from 2007 - my lying liar of a TV listings magazine claimed it was "NEW".  I'd not seen it before, though, and found it rather good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 28 February, 2015, 12:25:53 am
It was SD too. Which was this: chiz
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: redshift on 01 March, 2015, 03:46:36 pm
It was SD too. Which was this: chiz

Disclaimer: didn't see the prog.  However, Ian Curtis died in 1980, which means that any archive footage will probably be either 2" VT (not so likely) 1" VT (quite likely), U-Matic (maybe) or 16mm film.  Old 2" can look quite good, as long as you find someone who can remember how to line them up and get rid of the quad banding.  1" looks soft.  U-Matic is ropey.  16mm film can look good, but stuff from that era usually doesn't.  None of the above are HD, so why make them worse by upconverting?    If the rest of the prog was talking heads, it'll either be old musos, who aren't usually that pretty, or people too young to remember Joy Division, whose opinions are irrelevant…   ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 01 March, 2015, 03:52:55 pm
Yes, they weren't too pretty  ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 01 March, 2015, 04:14:18 pm
At least Paul Morley was rather less of a pseud than he was in the Kraftwerk one the other week.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 02 March, 2015, 01:43:51 pm
But still quite a bit of a pseud.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 02 March, 2015, 02:07:33 pm
Talking about picture quality, why did the recent re-showing of Smiley's People look so terrible?  It was shot on film.  Rather than show what-looked like an ancient video tape conversion, couldn't the Beeb have been arsed to make a remaster from the original film?  Or is the original film lost or crap, too?

There have been complaints about the Blu-ray version as well.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 02 March, 2015, 02:10:10 pm
couldn't the Beeb have been arsed to make a remaster from the original film?

At a guess, remastering takes time and costs money.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Biggsy on 02 March, 2015, 02:12:21 pm
But far less money than making new drama - of which I wouldn't mind a tiny tad less.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 March, 2015, 06:36:24 pm
I'm liking "How We Got To Now with Steven Johnson" (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b053hxjw).  Series of five; 1-4 available on iPlayer with the last one broadcast on BBC2, 19:30, March 14th.  Originally made for PBS so somewhat US-centric but contains some interesting historical Stuffs.  Previous eps have been "Clean", "Time", "Cold" and "Light", with "Sound" still to come.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 08 March, 2015, 09:34:26 pm
I'm liking "How We Got To Now with Steven Johnson" (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b053hxjw).  Series of five; 1-4 available on iPlayer with the last one broadcast on BBC2, 19:30, March 14th.  Originally made for PBS so somewhat US-centric but contains some interesting historical Stuffs.  Previous eps have been "Clean", "Time", "Cold" and "Light", with "Sound" still to come.

+1

In many ways it's the US-centricity that's making it interesting.  Any self-respecting BRITON is familiar with Bazalgette's sewers, John Snow's pump and so on, but the wholesale jacking up of Chicago to bodge a sewage network in underneath was news to me.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 March, 2015, 10:33:09 pm
I knew about Chicago but thought it had happened about forty years later than it actually did.  Didn't know about the Thermo-King bloke though.

Now watching "Light".  Mr Johnson in the bath :o
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 15 March, 2015, 06:23:45 pm
Recorded some top Nonsense off More4 last night.  Bombers!  Cold War Paranoia!  Conspiracy Theories!  Marilyn Monroe!  Nazis!  The Scorching Plains of New MexicoTM!  Three Letter Agencies!  UFOs!

Only Elvis is missing so far.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 15 March, 2015, 09:39:35 pm
Poo!  It was a baby marmoset.  Not a chupacabra at all :(
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 07 April, 2015, 12:21:29 am
Been binge watching Better Call Saul the last couple of nights. Final episode in the series tomorrow. Can't wait. It's bloody brilliant.

I was a bit sceptical initially, imagining the only point of interest would be finding out how Jimmy McGill becomes Saul Goodman, but in fact it definitely stands up in its own right - you could watch it without having seen Breaking Bad.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: hillbilly on 07 April, 2015, 10:32:28 pm
Inside no. 9 is back, 10PM tonight. The first series was a bit hit and miss, but included the brilliant A Quiet Night In, so hopefully there are some gems to be had in series 2.

I missed that this had come back.  Thank goodness for iPlayer.  Two episodes in and your description in the 2nd sentence still seems apt.  Sheridan Smith is one hell of an actress though (#2). 

But I'd rather have a dozen of these than the latest "Generic US comedy" which clogs up the comedic arteries of the other public service broadcaster in the UK.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Asterix, the former Gaul. on 10 April, 2015, 06:34:44 pm
Talking about picture quality, why did the recent re-showing of Smiley's People look so terrible?  It was shot on film.  Rather than show what-looked like an ancient video tape conversion, couldn't the Beeb have been arsed to make a remaster from the original film?  Or is the original film lost or crap, too?

There have been complaints about the Blu-ray version as well.

I've the DVD of it.  It's not great but I didn't find it awful.  I guess they must used a VHS tape.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 10 April, 2015, 07:35:12 pm
Inside no. 9 is back, 10PM tonight. The first series was a bit hit and miss, but included the brilliant A Quiet Night In, so hopefully there are some gems to be had in series 2.

I missed that this had come back.  Thank goodness for iPlayer.  Two episodes in and your description in the 2nd sentence still seems apt.  Sheridan Smith is one hell of an actress though (#2). 

But I'd rather have a dozen of these than the latest "Generic US comedy" which clogs up the comedic arteries of the other public service broadcaster in the UK.
Yes ^3 !  (although we've only watched the first one so far - which was a Curate's Egg, but an enjoyable one.)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 10 May, 2015, 12:25:35 am
Advance warning: Dr Larrington tells me that that long-awaited distascope version of Susannah Clarke's most stout novel Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell starts next Sunday, May 17, 21:00, BBC1.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 15 May, 2015, 11:48:33 pm
Thursday night, BBC1.  Shark.

It's a natural history program about Sharks.

It's really quite stunning.

I bought a rather large LED TV a while back.  This program alone justified the purchase.

Let me know if there's is anything quite as majestic as a Great White Shark.  They really are magnificent aren't they?

Not sure if this was filmed in 4K 3D but I would really give anything to see it if it was.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: runsoncake on 16 May, 2015, 05:52:07 pm
Last night's W1A (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b05vjk30/w1a-series-2-episode-4):

I almost hate myself for noticing in the first 20 seconds that Ian Fletcher's Brompton had changed to a new model before it became a sub-plot.

I mentioned it before the point was made in the plot only to be told that I was a sad git. Things got even worse at the end when I pointed out the 3 diiferent types of handlebar on show  :facepalm: :facepalm:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: perpetual dan on 16 May, 2015, 08:01:21 pm
Last night's W1A (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b05vjk30/w1a-series-2-episode-4):

I almost hate myself for noticing in the first 20 seconds that Ian Fletcher's Brompton had changed to a new model before it became a sub-plot.

You're not alone. Unfortunately Mrs Dan really dislikes W1A so I have to record it and watch it at strategic times.

I saw an interesting program (Garden Watch) on people that video the wildlife in their garden's the other day.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 16 May, 2015, 08:41:23 pm
I've tried watching W1A twice now but it comes across as a program made by, and for, BBC employees.

"The Office" was beautifully generic but this isn't my office environment at all and it doesn't have the bite of "The Thick of It".
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 17 May, 2015, 01:13:46 pm
I think it's a programme for people who've ever had to work with marketing.  That it's set in the BBC is a minor act of genius, as it allows them to harness the inherent ridiculousness of new Broadcasting House.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: redshift on 17 May, 2015, 03:35:16 pm
The problem with W1A is that it's presented for general viewers as satire, when in fact anyone who works with the BBC knows it is a documentary.  I have worked with, and/or had meetings with every one of those people.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 17 May, 2015, 09:35:04 pm
This ^^^^ was my problem with The Office.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Vince on 20 May, 2015, 06:13:43 pm
+1
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 20 May, 2015, 06:45:54 pm
Thursday night, BBC1.  Shark.

It's a natural history program about Sharks.

It's really quite stunning.

I bought a rather large LED TV a while back.  This program alone justified the purchase. I justify the purchase by citing this program.

FTFY
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 20 May, 2015, 07:56:11 pm
Thursday night, BBC1.  Shark.

It's a natural history program about Sharks.

It's really quite stunning.

I bought a rather large LED TV a while back.  This program alone justified the purchase. I justify the purchase by citing this program.

FTFY

I get the point but I actually justified the purchase using "Planet Earth" on BluRay.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 20 May, 2015, 07:57:35 pm
Is it just me or does anyone else play guess what the backing music will be to "Homes Under the Hammer"?

Property is in Winchester? - That'll be "Winchester Cathedral" - The New Vaudeville band.

Brass mirror on the wall? - "Brass in Pocket" - The Pretenders.

It actually makes an incredibly shit program rather watchable*

* Caveat.  It's quite possibly a cunning parody of a shit property program and I'm the only one not in on the joke.


To save you the time of watching the "grand reveal", try to imagine what the original shit-hole looks like painted magnolia and with some beige carpet. You won't be a million miles off.

Anyway.. it's worth watching if you play the guessing game.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bumper on 27 May, 2015, 08:08:49 pm
Has springwatch turned into a kids tv series?

I miss Oddie, Humble and King.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 27 May, 2015, 08:19:46 pm
I was thinking last night that there seems to be a dearth of actual wildlife watching on it these days.
You can keep Oddie though.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bumper on 27 May, 2015, 08:28:04 pm
There's definitely a lack of watching spring stuff.

Having said that, there's been more tonight. I just can't abide the constant childish chit-chat between the presenters, and don't start me on anthropomorphism, and stupid bloody names!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Bledlow on 27 May, 2015, 08:56:37 pm
Mrs B refuses to watch it since Cwis took over. She loathes him, & she was disgusted by what she saw as its transformation into a standard programme about presenters*, with the wildlife being a bit of background. She's never heard of the Goodies, but quite liked Bill Oddie on Springwatch, I think because he seemed to be interested in the creatures.

*Like anything with Nigel Marven or any of a host of others who she refuses to watch. She has been known to soothe herself by watching old David Attenborough wildlife programmes.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bumper on 27 May, 2015, 09:01:40 pm
Mrs B refuses to watch it since Cwis took over. She loathes him, & she was disgusted by what she saw as its transformation into a standard programme about presenters*, with the wildlife being a bit of background. She's never heard of the Goodies, but quite liked Bill Oddie on Springwatch, I think because he seemed to be interested in the creatures.

*Like anything with Nigel Marven or any of a host of others who she refuses to watch. She has been known to soothe herself by watching old David Attenborough wildlife programmes.

Mrs B is correct about Bloddie. He was all for the wildlife on the series.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pumpkin on 29 May, 2015, 01:42:27 pm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b04230p2

Series 2/Ep.1 is currently on iplayer
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 30 May, 2015, 09:43:56 am
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b04230p2

Series 2/Ep.1 is currently on iplayer

Not for me it isn't.

Is this N.I. only?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: jsabine on 30 May, 2015, 06:56:38 pm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b04230p2

Series 2/Ep.1 is currently on iplayer

Not for me it isn't.

Is this N.I. only?

Pumpkin's link is to Ser 1/Ep 2 - try http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b05x2pvx instead.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 02 June, 2015, 12:38:23 pm
Banshee

Not, strictly speaking, on at the moment, but available on Sky Boxsets*

Imagine the storylines of Justified mixed with the sex and gore of GoT and you pretty much have it to a tee.

I quite like it, but there has been times I have had to look away, such as
(click to show/hide)

*Other online providers are available
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 02 June, 2015, 01:35:57 pm
I'm enjoying No Offence - pacy, funny, rude, grimy. If you didn't know before it would only take a few seconds to see that Paul Abbott was behind it. Joanna Scanlon and the other 2 female leads are brilliant. Even Will Mellor is better than tolerable.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pumpkin on 03 June, 2015, 10:01:55 am
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b05xgkxq/michael-smiley-something-to-ride-home-about-series-2-episode-2

Now on iplayer
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 03 June, 2015, 03:29:49 pm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b05xgkxq/michael-smiley-something-to-ride-home-about-series-2-episode-2

Now on iplayer

Here he is in said Jersey

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sF6Lnxl8ZA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sF6Lnxl8ZA)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pumpkin on 09 June, 2015, 01:28:12 pm
Anybody see 'Bespoked' on BBC iplayer? Fist episode was last week. Basically amagazine prog but looked at a fewdifferent things
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 09 June, 2015, 01:37:32 pm
If you are interested in hist. (which few boys are) then jump on iPlayer and watch "The Savage Peace" while it's still there.  Documentary about the fate of ethnic Germans in Czechoslovakia and Poland in the immediate aftermath of WW2.  Not for the squeamish.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 09 June, 2015, 04:38:45 pm
Coming soon: The Clangers!

All-new Clangers starts Monday June 15th, CBeebies, 17:30.  Narrated by Michael Palin, co-produced by Smallfilms, Dan "Son of Oliver" Postgate and Peter Firmin involved.

If They have messed with it I'll set the BEAR on them.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 09 June, 2015, 05:19:49 pm
Coming soon: The Clangers!

All-new Clangers starts Monday June 15th, CBeebies, 17:30.  Narrated by Michael Palin, co-produced by Smallfilms, Dan "Son of Oliver" Postgate and Peter Firmin involved.

If They have messed with it I'll set the BEAR on them.

Sneak peek (http://www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies/watch/clangers-sneak-peek)

The sky's too blue!  Like Teletubbies in space.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Zipperhead on 09 June, 2015, 05:37:54 pm
But where's the soup dragon?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrew on 11 June, 2015, 08:12:31 am
NOT The Interceptor

From the off, I thought 'oh no'. To say it's dire is wasting words on it.

Tedious formulaic tripe.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: clarion on 11 June, 2015, 10:41:55 am
But where's the soup dragon?
She's in there, don't worry :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 11 June, 2015, 02:00:04 pm
Spotted the Soup Dragon in a trailer last night; also the Iron Chicken and the Froglets.  Thor is right about the sky, though.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 13 June, 2015, 03:46:47 pm
I know where Emily lives. Shall I go round and have words?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 14 June, 2015, 02:11:54 pm
I know where Emily lives. Shall I go round and have words?

(Imagines citoyen Having Words in a Ray Winstone accent)

(Boggles)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: perpetual dan on 15 June, 2015, 09:07:33 pm
Series record set on CBeebies. They're really skewing the demographics with the Clangers.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 17 June, 2015, 04:52:19 pm
I have just noticed that the Iron Chicken has a chainring as part of her nest :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 17 June, 2015, 05:40:29 pm
NOT The Interceptor

From the off, I thought 'oh no'. To say it's dire is wasting words on it.

Tedious formulaic tripe.

I read your comment and thought, Nah, it can't possibly be that bad...

It's worse. Really very bad indeed.

Also, a few points of geography:
1. Thanet isn't listed on motorway road signs
2. There is no junction 10 on the M2
3. In any case, the café where they shot that scene was by the A2 near Gravesend, not at the M2 services
4. Besides, the M2 services are near Rochester, not near the end of the M2 at Faversham

I won't be watching episode two.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrij on 29 June, 2015, 04:09:47 pm
clarion's Pappano's Classical Voices (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0615576)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 30 June, 2015, 09:55:21 pm
7/7 - Survivors' Stories.

What a horrible, and excellent, programme.  It brings back that terrible day, and gives an account of some of the lasting damage.

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 05 July, 2015, 04:27:06 pm
Tuesday July 7th, BBC1, 22:35.  "Imagine" profiles legendary drummer and miserablist Ginger Baker.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: spesh on 05 July, 2015, 05:35:46 pm
Tuesday July 7th, BBC1, 22:35.  "Imagine" profiles legendary miserablist and drummer Ginger Baker.

Fixed, no charge.  :demon:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: CAMRAMan on 05 July, 2015, 06:16:12 pm
clarion's Pappano's Classical Voices (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0615576)
Great Nordic-themed Schönbrunn concert too...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 05 July, 2015, 08:12:13 pm
ITV4. NOW. 'Slaying the Badger'.

A story of the 86 TdF LeMond/Hinault battle . . .
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 06 July, 2015, 09:09:10 am
ITV4. NOW. 'Slaying the Badger'.

A story of the 86 TdF LeMond/Hinault battle . . .

Dead good, that was, though I have to take issue with their statement that Hinault was the last Frenchman to win le Tour.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 07 July, 2015, 12:06:41 am
Fignon? no one since that i can think of.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 07 July, 2015, 09:53:04 am
Fignon indeed.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 07 July, 2015, 10:08:40 am
No Fignon's wins were 83 and 84 he was injured in 85 when the Badger won his last TdF and then famously beaten by Lemond in the final time trial in 89 when he was back to full strength. Hinault's last win in 85 was therefore after Fignon's wins. It's odd given their relative ages but that's the way it worked out. Had he not been injured in 85 Fignon might well have gone on to win a couple more TdFs or perhaps not who knows.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 07 July, 2015, 10:35:03 am
You are right.  I had wrongly thought that he had won while Lemond was off sick after being mistaken for a turkey but that was the Roche versus Delgado era.  I can't even blame Strong Drink, so will go for Galloping Senility instead.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 07 July, 2015, 02:03:21 pm
You are right.  I had wrongly thought that he had won while Lemond was off sick after being mistaken for a turkey but that was the Roche versus Delgado era.  I can't even blame Strong Drink, so will go for Galloping Senility instead.

S.A.G who got it wrong?

<fuzzy commences his escape and evasion protocol due to likely introduction of The Bear>
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 07 July, 2015, 02:22:29 pm
Last night I watched a couple of episodes of Cordon (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p02tc97z/cordon-episode-1), in the BBC4 forrin drama from abroad slot.

One day someone will make a programme where people actually do what they're told, apply common sense, and healthcare professionals follow strict infection control procedures even when things get a little bit dramatic.  The outbreak will thus be contained with minimum loss of life, and there will be much rejoicing (at least amongst the scientists and medics in the audience).

That aside, it's a reasonably watchable example of the genre.  The smart money is on the fat kid with spikey hair[1], who got given a detention for being bullied and is now locked in a library with nothing better to do than read about epidemics, as being the most likely to walk out of it alive.  Pregnant Girl is top of the list for having to give birth in gruelling circumstances later in the series.  Old Man Who Breeds Rats is neck and neck with Anxious Primary School Teacher for the Typhoid Mary award for lack of common sense.  Sensible 1337 h4xx0r woman is most likely to do something tragically stupid because of political intrigue and/or her polite ossifer boyfriend later in the series.  And Important Doctor Guy is most likely to be accidentally shot, assuming his implausible failure to use latex gloves appropriately doesn't kill him first.


[1] In a US series, he would be cast as the bully.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 07 July, 2015, 02:33:16 pm
ITV4. NOW. 'Slaying the Badger'.

A story of the 86 TdF LeMond/Hinault battle . . .

Lemond, even in retirement, seems to have that rather annoying "I wasn't crying, I had something in my eye" sort of character that many top sports people have.

He shouted his wife down every time she said something like "...and that really upset us.." or "...Greg was really hurt...".

Let it lie Greg, let it lie.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 07 July, 2015, 02:41:54 pm
Given the way he was royally f***ed over by LA,Trek & the Merkin Meedja, I think he might have a touch of justification. Nevertheless I really enjoyed the footage of REAL bicycles, some of them were(still are) works of art. Fragile and beautiful...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 07 July, 2015, 02:51:06 pm
Last night I watched a couple of episodes of Cordon (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p02tc97z/cordon-episode-1), in the BBC4 forrin drama from abroad slot.
I enjoyed the first episode. I know they're only suppositions, but now I've read your prognostications they seem obvious.  We'll have to wait to see if they were really should have had spoiler tags.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 07 July, 2015, 02:52:38 pm

Lemond, even in retirement, seems to have that rather annoying "I wasn't crying, I had something in my eye" sort of character that many top sports people have.


Don't badmouth him please - Lemond means the world to me.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 07 July, 2015, 05:18:52 pm
Don't badmouth him please - Lemond means the world to me.

Very good. Shame he can't spell his own name properly though.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 07 July, 2015, 06:38:09 pm

Lemond, even in retirement, seems to have that rather annoying "I wasn't crying, I had something in my eye" sort of character that many top sports people have.


Don't badmouth him please - Lemond means the world to me.

Eye-thanyooo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g-4-gLlF0uw)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 09 July, 2015, 12:11:47 am
National Park Stories.  It's about offroaders versus local people in the use of green lanes.  It's like 'On The Road' on this forum.  Drivers of offroad vehicles and motorbikes wanting to drive on the green lanes, local people finding them all a blasted nuisance.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 09 July, 2015, 02:24:57 pm
National Park Stories.  It's about offroaders versus local people in the use of green lanes.  It's like 'On The Road' on this forum.  Drivers of offroad vehicles and motorbikes wanting to drive on the green lanes, local people finding them all a blasted nuisance.

I watched that, to sum it up: Locals people getting miffed, 4X4 drivers know their legal rights.  Local people try appealing to TPTB's sense of right and wrong, 4X4 drivers wave their legal rights in TPTB's face.  Local people run off, crying.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 09 July, 2015, 03:02:19 pm
National Park Stories.  It's about offroaders versus local people in the use of green lanes.  It's like 'On The Road' on this forum.  Drivers of offroad vehicles and motorbikes wanting to drive on the green lanes, local people finding them all a blasted nuisance.

I watched that, to sum it up: Locals people getting miffed, 4X4 drivers know their legal rights.  Local people try appealing to TPTB's sense of right and wrong, 4X4 drivers wave their legal rights in TPTB's face.  Local people run off, crying.

Wot, no spoiler tags?   ;D

Pretty much the whole thing there Phil.  The mess created on the lanes was rather shocking, I'm not surprised the locals get fed-up.  But, legal rights and all that.  Plus a vocal and rich group with support probly garnered from forums much like this one.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Peter on 09 July, 2015, 09:47:22 pm
The problem with those legal rights is that they are based in a time where off-roading didn't even exist.  These were historic routes which were actually used for basic movement of essential goods and - well, anything, really.  They fell into disuse with  the successive arrivals of canals, railways, then metalled roads.  There has never been, as far as I know, a specific right for off-roaders.  What is actually needed is a change in the law or regulations, nationally, so that National Parks cannot make up their own minds about this.  As it stands, they really have no choice but to bow down to the powerful lobby.  We are not talking about the odd quaint little green lane; Mastiles Lane in the Dales, was a colossal thoroughfare from East Yorkshire over to Malham and beyond.  Not too long ago it was easily rideable on a bike.  I'm pretty sure it isn't now, except possibly in a drought year.

Peter

PS I didn't watch more than a couple of minutes; it was obvious what the result would be and it's just too distressing.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 10 July, 2015, 11:27:30 am
Re-reading what I posted, I realise that it is, possibly, painting an incorrect image of where my sympathies lie.

As early as 1998, up on the old drovers roads round Pately Bridge, I noticed this kind of damage.  It's horrible to see and makes some places impassible, even on a full suss mountain bike.

However, the locals got it ALL wrong and their requests were uniformly thrown out because of it.  Until they hit upon the TRO order thing, then it started to go in their favour.

The guy from the Peak District National Park, with the short hair and earring, was a complete and utter dick.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Vince on 10 July, 2015, 11:38:26 am
The guy from the Peak District National Park, with the short hair and earring, was a complete and utter dick.
This is a repeat from about six months ago? I thought at the time that he was dick that was in a position where he could never please anybody.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Peter on 10 July, 2015, 02:27:03 pm
Yes, I wondered if it was a repeat.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrij on 20 July, 2015, 10:20:02 pm
clarion's Pappano's Classical Voices (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0615576)

Last episode now available.  This one was my favourite (though I may be vocally biased).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 22 July, 2015, 11:21:06 am
Currently on Fox, Marvel's Agent Carter.

Not your usual Marvel TV series, it is well written and funny.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 22 July, 2015, 01:54:33 pm
Since we don't have a thread for what's not worth watching, I'll post this here:

http://www.itv.com/presscentre/ep1week31/flockstars

(It was either that or in the why-we-should-have-a-BBC debate.)


It occurs to me that if you'd gone back to the 90s and explained to someone that in the future Come Dancing was one of the BBCs most popular shows, they'd sarcastically suggest that One Man And His Dog was also getting great ratings.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 24 July, 2015, 01:46:38 pm
BBC1 are rerunning Operation Wild (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b04dby0q).

1st episode was last night
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 30 July, 2015, 12:05:30 pm
clarion's Pappano's Classical Voices (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0615576)

Last episode now available.  This one was my favourite (though I may be vocally biased).

I missed these. Only caught the last two minutes of the soprano one. Hopefully they will  get a repeat.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrij on 30 July, 2015, 12:31:20 pm
clarion's Pappano's Classical Voices (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0615576)

Last episode now available.  This one was my favourite (though I may be vocally biased).

I missed these. Only caught the last two minutes of the soprano one. Hopefully they will  get a repeat.

They're still available via iPlayer: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0615576/episodes/player
Three days left to catch episode 1: Sopranos.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 30 July, 2015, 12:49:35 pm
clarion's Pappano's Classical Voices (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0615576)

Last episode now available.  This one was my favourite (though I may be vocally biased).

I missed these. Only caught the last two minutes of the soprano one. Hopefully they will  get a repeat.

They're still available via iPlayer: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0615576/episodes/player
Three days left to catch episode 1: Sopranos.

Ta Andrij I must have missed them when I looked at iPlayer on my telly.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 30 July, 2015, 02:56:13 pm
It's tomorrow, but Ripper Street series 3 starts.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 31 July, 2015, 07:07:22 pm
As is customary, Google is no help whatsoever in finding the original post but the very splendid Sound Of Song is being repeated in its entirety tonight on BBC4 starting at 21:00.  Neil Brand on sound recording techniques and technology.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 31 July, 2015, 07:42:54 pm
It's tomorrow, but Ripper Street series 3 starts.
Beat me to it!

(already shown on Amazon Prime - apparently it was their first UK commision. But who cares ... )

Happy!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 03 August, 2015, 11:47:56 am
It's over now but thought I'd mention "Humans".

Domestic robots, "Synths", become self-aware and this drama told the story of the problems that ensue when this sort of thing happens.

Christ almighty it was awful.

OK, maybe I'm being unfair but it had all the acting skills and production value of "The Tomorrow People", circa 1972.

Another case of a 90 minute film being stretched too far.

I'm going to count to 10 and see if Kim, OTP, provides a list of technical issues with the program because I thought they were glaring.

Chief amongst the issues I had:

1) I wish our code developers could find defects in code as quickly as the young girl in the show.  In fact everyone seemed perfectly capable of watching a screen of scrolling code flash before their eyes and point out "There's a problem in the code there!"

2) Why can Robots never be made to turn and walk away properly?  Why can they be made with realistic sexy parts and yet, when they turn and walk away, they do it like Robbie the Robot? (In fact I know why, the director told everyone to "Can you do it like you;re a Robot Darling?".

This, and their glowing green eyes, makes them noticeable from 100 yards, when it seems nobody is able to notice it.

Take out the Robot shagging and screen it at 5pm for the kids.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Dibdib on 03 August, 2015, 11:52:44 am
2) Why can Robots never be made to turn and walk away properly?  Why can they be made with realistic sexy parts and yet, when they turn and walk away, they do it like Robbie the Robot? (In fact I know why, the director told everyone to "Can you do it like you;re a Robot Darling?".

This, and their glowing green eyes, makes them noticeable from 100 yards, when it seems nobody is able to notice it.

Considering the deliberate choices of blue "blood" and vivid green eyes (which Niska deliberately covers with coloured contacts, and which weren't given to Karen) I'd guess the "in-universe" explanation is that they're deliberately programmed to walk "robotically" so that people can tell who's a human and who's a synth. See also the difference in Anita and Mia's body language.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 03 August, 2015, 01:27:02 pm
It wasn't great, but it was interesting enough to watch to the end (whilst thinking that, yes, it should have been half the length).

Funnily enough I noticed a completely different set of defects to Lee! The writing just wasnt ... good enough. The finale was pointless and over-egged. The family just didn't .. makes sense, somehow. There were too many strands, none of which were satisfactory. And it felt like it was aimed at people who were completely new to the idea of robots, AI etc; as if Blade Runner had never existed (let alone Terminator and a billion other more mainstream stuffs).

Anyway, series 2 is on its way!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 03 August, 2015, 04:11:39 pm
I didn't watch Humans but I wonder how it compares in the preposterousness stakes to Wayward Pines...

Wayward Pines finished its 10 episode run last week. It was supposed to be a one-off 'event' but there are rumours doing the rounds of a second series. I have mixed feelings about that. Part of me would like to see what happens next, but on the whole I'm not sure there's enough scope to drag the story out that much further.

Anyway, it was a completely ridiculous series, with a new plot hole appearing in almost every scene, and Matt Dillon hamming it up for all he was worth... and yet I found it strangely compelling.

The first four episodes seem designed to totally bamboozle the viewer. Matt Dillon is a secret service agent who is sent on a mission to find a missing agent, but after a car crash he wakes up in the peculiar town of Wayward Pines, from which no one can escape or even contact the outside world. A lot of stuff happens that doesn't make an awful lot of sense but it's worth sticking with it because it all makes a kind of sense eventually - just as long as you don't ask too many questions about the logic and/or science of it. But I'm not going to say any more than that because spoilers.

All good fun, definitely worth watching on Netflix, if it comes up.

I pretty much agree on all points with this review (no spoilers): http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2015/05/wayward-pines-m-night-shyamalan/393149/
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 03 August, 2015, 09:58:11 pm
Flying to the Ends of the Earth, on Channel 4 tonight.   It was episode two, but it's on 4OD.

Arthur Williams uses tiny little planes, DeHavilland twin otters mostly, to fly to the most remote places in Nepal and get an insight into the lives of the people who eke out an existence there.

It was a bit sad really, stories of rank exploitation in sublime landscapes, but it was very good, if only for the take offs and landings on teeny weeny airstrips  dug out of the sides of mountains.  I'll be watching the rest of them.  It's Australia next week.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 04 August, 2015, 05:24:55 am
Tonight on Pick (Freeview 11, other viewing wossnames are available) at 23:00 the only and only Sharknado.  "Unmissable!" - Chris Waddle.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 04 August, 2015, 09:14:33 am
Tonight on Pick (Freeview 11, other viewing wossnames are available) at 23:00 the only and only Sharknado.  "Unmissable!" - Chris Waddle.

It's not as awful as Pterodactyl (which means it's actually worse).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 04 August, 2015, 02:26:02 pm
TBH, it's probably better to skip the movie and go straight to the final song...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fCaU6bV3PI
http://youtu.be/0fCaU6bV3PI

...which is now today's earworm.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 05 August, 2015, 11:00:53 am
It's over now but thought I'd mention "Humans".

Christ almighty it was awful.

I've now watched the first two episodes. I didn't think it was that bad. I'd say it was aimed at a younger audience though, late teens rather than middle-aged men - the 'issues' are dealt with in a fairly glib and immature way. I don't mean immature as a criticism, just that it lacks the emotional depth and complexity you'd expect of something aimed at older viewers with more experience of the world.

Yes, the story is a bit slight but I think I'm going to continue watching it. It's not Blade Runner and it's not trying to be. I like the domestic setting, I think it works. Especially in the little scenes such as when the boy tries to cop a feel of Anita's tits.

Quote
2) Why can Robots never be made to turn and walk away properly?  Why can they be made with realistic sexy parts and yet, when they turn and walk away, they do it like Robbie the Robot? (In fact I know why, the director told everyone to "Can you do it like you;re a Robot Darling?".

It's just visual rhetoric. You can have too much naturalism in these things. (And we don't actually know quite how realistic the synths' sexy parts are anyway.)

Quote
Take out the Robot shagging and screen it at 5pm for the kids.

So far, I've been pretty disappointed at the robot shagging.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Dibdib on 05 August, 2015, 11:19:23 am
While I'm glad they've got a second series, I did think the last couple of episodes weren't as strong as the first half of the series. Shame, really.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 05 August, 2015, 09:31:08 pm
Just watching a recording of 'Dead Man Cycling'. A truly unbelievable story of a man who has overcome disability to be an athlete and paralympian.

Originally shown on BBC2 Scotland. I'll leave the link HERE (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b064k1q5/dead-man-cycling)

I wish that I had one per cent of that man's determination and strength of character.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 05 August, 2015, 10:27:49 pm
Also on a disability theme, http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b064jj14/disabled-in-an-instant wasn't bad (apart from the BBC three soundtrack).  Full marks to Baroness Campbell for telling it like it is.

Best watched with the subtitles on, so you can spot the bit where the voiceover has been edited so as not to offend the government.  It b0rks the sync for the remainder of the programme, but at least this time it was for a good cause.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 08 August, 2015, 01:55:14 pm
Having binge-watched the rest of Humans on my day off yesterday, I have to say you're all wrong - it's brilliant, and it built up superbly to an excellent ending.

Not especially original, fairly insubstantial, but well made, well acted and a good solid script.

Was genuinely upset when
(click to show/hide)

Kind of wish they would leave it there though - another series might kill it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Juan Martín on 09 August, 2015, 07:38:44 pm
He's right you know.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrij on 09 August, 2015, 07:44:46 pm
If you are squeamish, look away now.
(click to show/hide)

Also, of possible interest to folk here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b02xbj6m/precision-the-measure-of-all-things-1-time-and-distance (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b02xbj6m/precision-the-measure-of-all-things-1-time-and-distance)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 11 August, 2015, 10:43:58 pm
Last night I watched a couple of episodes of Cordon (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p02tc97z/cordon-episode-1), in the BBC4 forrin drama from abroad slot.

One day someone will make a programme where people actually do what they're told, apply common sense, and healthcare professionals follow strict infection control procedures even when things get a little bit dramatic.  The outbreak will thus be contained with minimum loss of life, and there will be much rejoicing (at least amongst the scientists and medics in the audience).

That aside, it's a reasonably watchable example of the genre.  The smart money is on the fat kid with spikey hair[1], who got given a detention for being bullied and is now locked in a library with nothing better to do than read about epidemics, as being the most likely to walk out of it alive.  Pregnant Girl is top of the list for having to give birth in gruelling circumstances later in the series.  Old Man Who Breeds Rats is neck and neck with Anxious Primary School Teacher for the Typhoid Mary award for lack of common sense.  Sensible 1337 h4xx0r woman is most likely to do something tragically stupid because of political intrigue and/or her polite ossifer boyfriend later in the series.  And Important Doctor Guy is most likely to be accidentally shot, assuming his implausible failure to use latex gloves appropriately doesn't kill him first.


[1] In a US series, he would be cast as the bully.



Did you watch it to the end? If so, you must feel vindicated, on several counts...  ;D

We just finished watching all of it, often shouting 'Oh for fuck's sake!' every time someone did something particularly stupid, and subsequently died.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 11 August, 2015, 10:54:16 pm
Last night I watched a couple of episodes of Cordon (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p02tc97z/cordon-episode-1), in the BBC4 forrin drama from abroad slot.

One day someone will make a programme where people actually do what they're told, apply common sense, and healthcare professionals follow strict infection control procedures even when things get a little bit dramatic.  The outbreak will thus be contained with minimum loss of life, and there will be much rejoicing (at least amongst the scientists and medics in the audience).

That aside, it's a reasonably watchable example of the genre.  The smart money is on the fat kid with spikey hair[1], who got given a detention for being bullied and is now locked in a library with nothing better to do than read about epidemics, as being the most likely to walk out of it alive.  Pregnant Girl is top of the list for having to give birth in gruelling circumstances later in the series.  Old Man Who Breeds Rats is neck and neck with Anxious Primary School Teacher for the Typhoid Mary award for lack of common sense.  Sensible 1337 h4xx0r woman is most likely to do something tragically stupid because of political intrigue and/or her polite ossifer boyfriend later in the series.  And Important Doctor Guy is most likely to be accidentally shot, assuming his implausible failure to use latex gloves appropriately doesn't kill him first.


[1] In a US series, he would be cast as the bully.



Did you watch it to the end? If so, you must feel vindicated, on several counts...  ;D

I did.   :smug:


Quote
We just finished watching all of it, often shouting 'Oh for fuck's sake!' every time someone did something particularly stupid, and subsequently died.

We decided that making bad decisions was one of the main symptoms of the virus.  Or something.

There's now the CW remake to look forward to.  If you're not familiar with the output of the CW, you can expect just as many bad decisions, a better looking cast with hardly anyone over the age of 30 who isn't evil, a large helping of out-of-place teenage wangst (AKA The Prom Must Go On syndrome), and because it's leftpondian, a lot more guns and fistfights.

The
(click to show/hide)
will be notably absent.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: perpetual dan on 11 August, 2015, 11:12:57 pm
War Book is on now. If you're not into POBI it might not appeal, but its better than average.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 11 August, 2015, 11:23:18 pm
 ;D



The
(click to show/hide)
will be notably absent.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 12 August, 2015, 12:37:58 pm
Cycling Weekly is going into the TV business?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 12 August, 2015, 12:53:02 pm
Cycling Weekly is going into the TV business?

Sadly not.  It's a TV network that makes programmes about (mostly) vampires and superheroes for teenagers.  Some of them are almost watchable, but inevitably jump the shark in the third episode.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 12 August, 2015, 01:08:42 pm
I can sort of understand the appeal of vampires as it's "cool" to do Stuffs like stay up all night and never get any older.  Superheroes - with the possible exception of ones called Tony - are a closed book to me.

I am happy to remain in ignorance of this "CW" phenomenon.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 12 August, 2015, 01:10:24 pm
Cycling Weekly is going into the TV business?

Sadly not.  It's a TV network that makes programmes about (mostly) vampires and superheroes for teenagers.  Some of them are almost watchable, but inevitably jump the shark in the third episode.

Do the sharks have frikkin lasers?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 12 August, 2015, 01:27:45 pm
Centuries-old vampires hanging around with high school girls are creepy, and Buffy already did it better, anyway.

All the best superheroes are called Tony.

Lasers feature all too rarely in the CW's output.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 18 August, 2015, 09:50:06 am
Unadulterated televoyeurism.   :o

https://www.itv.com/itvplayer/travel-guides (https://www.itv.com/itvplayer/travel-guides)

Seriously non-U, seriously entertaining.  My wife likened the 'back at home' scenes to Creature Comforts.  The highlight of last night's episode was the outrageously camp fella declaring of a Tenerifean black sand beach 'you can't build a sandcastle with mucky sand like that', while behind him an artist was sculpting a breathtaking sand cathedral. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 25 August, 2015, 02:29:19 pm
Flying to the Ends of the Earth, on Channel 4 tonight.   It was episode two, but it's on 4OD.

Arthur Williams uses tiny little planes, DeHavilland twin otters mostly, to fly to the most remote places in Nepal and get an insight into the lives of the people who eke out an existence there.

It was a bit sad really, stories of rank exploitation in sublime landscapes, but it was very good, if only for the take offs and landings on teeny weeny airstrips  dug out of the sides of mountains.  I'll be watching the rest of them.  It's Australia next week.

Australia was wonderful, but the final one (Northern Canada by seaplane) was just brilliant.  I flew over some of these territories in the Winter, it looked like another planet, but there are people living up there.  And bears, and rainforests.

Arthur had a go at flying all the aircraft, which he does in them all, but the seaplane landing was a bit special.  What a fab programme.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 26 August, 2015, 06:09:04 pm
As is usual with televisual wossnames I come to recommend things which have already been broadcast, in this case Soup Cans & Superstars: How Pop Art Changed The World (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b067ftp7/soup-cans-superstars-how-pop-art-changed-the-world), which is on iPlayer for another four weeks.  Refreshingly free from the ponciness that all too often accompanies programmes about art and as for the subject: anything which makes Baby Jesus Abstract Expressionist cry is undoubtedly a Good Thing :demon:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: robgul on 30 August, 2015, 05:35:13 pm
Dragon's Den tonight (30 August) has a pitch from a cycle holiday business - Ride25 -  I know the people involved at Ride25, but don't know the outcome of the pitch .. although the teaser trailer has one of the Dragon's (dunno his name) suggesting they are "taking him for a ride"

May be interesting to see what Ride25 pitches, and how they fare with forthcoming funding (if any) . . .

Rob
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 31 August, 2015, 10:45:11 pm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b01pptp0/cbeebies-bedtime-stories-329-my-friend-nigel

I still think he'd have been better presenting Top Gear.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: menthel on 04 September, 2015, 11:46:44 am
Cradle to Grave last night- very, very enjoyable!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 04 September, 2015, 12:03:50 pm
As is usual with televisual wossnames I come to recommend things which have already been broadcast, in this case Soup Cans & Superstars: How Pop Art Changed The World (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b067ftp7/soup-cans-superstars-how-pop-art-changed-the-world), which is on iPlayer for another four weeks.  Refreshingly free from the ponciness that all too often accompanies programmes about art and as for the subject: anything which makes Baby Jesus Abstract Expressionist cry is undoubtedly a Good Thing :demon:

Agreed, and showed/shows some of the lesser known works / artists as well.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 07 September, 2015, 10:28:46 pm
Just watched Ireland's Wild River: The Mighty Shannon (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b062vth0/natural-world-20152016-8-irelands-wild-river-the-mighty-shannon).  Some extraordinary wildlife photography.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrij on 08 September, 2015, 07:26:45 pm
Antigone (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b05sj2j6/juliette-binoche-antigone-at-the-barbican)

Caught this earlier in the year.  Great production and performances.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 08 September, 2015, 07:53:55 pm
Not tonight, but tomorrow there's a program about the Ordnance Survey on BBC for you map heads.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 12 September, 2015, 01:01:26 pm
Ooh, NightCops is visiting Darlo tonight!  I wonder if anyone I know will be on it  ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 12 September, 2015, 10:08:21 pm
Ooh, NightCops is visiting Darlo tonight!  I wonder if anyone I know will be on it  ;D

This is one of the funniest things I've ever seen.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 13 September, 2015, 10:42:33 am
Obese: A Year To Save My Life USA  (S1, ep8)

This guy weights 490 lbs and he's been taken out on a 100 mile bike ride in the heat.  To give him a reality check.

It appears to have worked  ;D



Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrij on 13 September, 2015, 01:23:05 pm
Not tonight, but tomorrow there's a program about the Ordnance Survey on BBC for you map heads.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Asterix, the former Gaul. on 14 September, 2015, 08:20:35 am
On catch-up TV I just watched "Bletchley Park: Code-breaking's Forgotten Genius" about the Hut 6 cryptographer Gordon Welchman.  His contribution to the task was on a par with that of Alan Turing apparently but in a very different way.

The most interesting aspect IMO was approach to the task and his post war life when partly due to British spending cuts he continued his work in the USA.  It seems that much of what he did now underpins present day security methods, including the use of the internet by any one of us!  Hi guys!

The book he wrote wasn't actually banned but made him persona non grata in security circles who gave him a rough ride.   It's called 'THE HUT SIX STORY : BREAKING THE ENIGMA CODES' and if you want it today, it will cost you £354 on Amazon co uk :o  On French Amazon you can still order it, new, for 13 Euros.

It seems that if you were a British technological genius during WW2 then you had to tread very carefully once you were expendable.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 14 September, 2015, 09:25:58 am
Cradle to Grave last night- very, very enjoyable!
Caught up with these on iPlayer.  Thanks for putting me onto that.  I don't generally like Peter Kay, and it's easy to think that Danny Baker is just the face you'd like to pummel on your doorstep, but this is really excellent.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 14 September, 2015, 01:22:53 pm
The first episode of Cradle To Grave was great - especially the funeral scene, which had me guffawing loudly - but I found the second ep a bit meh. I suspect there's a danger of it becoming very formulaic very quickly. Will probably keep watching though.

I've also been watching the repeats of Fawlty Towers on Gold, which they're showing to celebrate its 40th birthday. Obviously I've seen them all many times before but not for a few years, and while they're still extremely funny in places, I was surprised at how dated they are. I told my son he must watch it because it's a classic, but it portrays a world that bears little resemblance to the one he's growing up in.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Vince on 14 September, 2015, 08:13:37 pm
Ooh, NightCops is visiting Darlo tonight!  I wonder if anyone I know will be on it  ;D

I was very surprised to see a friend of mine on Crime Watch a while ago. Fortunately he was one of the good guys.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 22 September, 2015, 11:41:49 am
Not just for geeky (ex-)maths teachers like me...

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b06csx20/secret-knowledge-the-art-of-the-impossible-mc-escher-and-me (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b06csx20/secret-knowledge-the-art-of-the-impossible-mc-escher-and-me)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 22 September, 2015, 01:10:22 pm
Also on a geeky note, I forgot to mention:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p030s5bx/calculating-ada-the-countess-of-computing
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 22 September, 2015, 09:14:08 pm
Not just for geeky (ex-)maths teachers like me...

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b06csx20/secret-knowledge-the-art-of-the-impossible-mc-escher-and-me (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b06csx20/secret-knowledge-the-art-of-the-impossible-mc-escher-and-me)

 :thumbsup:

Thanks for the recommendation.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Basil on 22 September, 2015, 09:47:07 pm
Thanks.  Downloaded, and now just need to watch sometime in the next 28 days.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 23 September, 2015, 09:20:14 am
Caught part of Which way is the front line from here? (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2480784/) last night. A documentary about the late photojournalist Tim Hetherington. I missed the start where he was working in Liberia and had to get to bed before the end, switching off whilst he was working in Afghanistan. What I saw of the program looked very thought provoking and at times, harrowing and emotional. I will have to see if it is on catch up.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 18 October, 2015, 03:18:10 pm
River

Caught up on this last night after seeing it on Gogglebox. Quirky detective drama about a middle aged loner cop who sees dead people, in a Sixth Sense stylee. It's actually really rather good - the wilful quirkiness could be very irritating but it works well. The excellent casting helps - Nicola Walker off of Spooks and Stellen Skarsgaard off of everything Stellen Skarsgaard has ever been in, plus Lesley Manville off of Mike Leigh and Eddie Marsan off of pretty much any half decent telly thing you care to mention.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 19 October, 2015, 12:37:30 pm
The excellent casting helps - Nicola Walker off of Spooks
I facebooked a friend the other day to tell her poor old dowdy Ruth from Spooks is now a police officer on ITV at 9pm on Thursdays, along with bad Connie and half of Waking the Dead, and she replied that she's also a deceased cop with half a head on BBC with a troubled ponderous Swede.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 22 October, 2015, 08:41:16 am
I watched part II of the DIY SOS thing where they revamped a Manchester street as a haven for physically and mentally injured veterans. The humility of severely wounded Gambian Irish Guardsman Lamin and his family had me totally tear sodden.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 22 October, 2015, 10:46:47 am
The first episode of Cradle To Grave was great - especially the funeral scene, which had me guffawing loudly - but I found the second ep a bit meh. I suspect there's a danger of it becoming very formulaic very quickly. Will probably keep watching though.


Same here.  I've kept watching but mainly for the Dad's storyline (Peter Key) because absolutely nothing interesting has happened in Danny Baker's early life it seems.

It was odd to see them coming out of Stockport Plaza Theatre (from a David Essex concert supposedly in London) on the same day I had been photographing the Stockport Plaza Theatre though.  It was also the same day that a TV drama "Houdini and Doyle" was being filmed in Stockport (again for a London setting).

Who knew?  Stockport, the new Hollywood.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 25 October, 2015, 07:41:35 am
Psychedelic Britannia from last night is worth iPlaying.  Even if you're not interested in the music it's worth watching just to see how Steve Howe has actually turned into Gollum.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: spesh on 25 October, 2015, 02:28:45 pm
... worth watching just to see how Steve Howe has actually turned into Gollum.

 ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 02 November, 2015, 06:04:53 pm
I have to confess that the Grauniad has our TV watching nailed this week:

http://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2015/nov/01/week-in-tv-the-dresser-catastrophe-detectorists-homeland-jekyll-hyde

(havent seen the first or last yet, but the middle 3 were brilliant!)

Is there a Catastrophe thread? Well anyway, S2 totally hit the ground running. There's quite a confusing twist-let at the start, but in fairness it leads to some very original humour around "new baby arrives". Plus all the usual in-family in-fighting, sarcasm, bickering and knob gags. More!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 03 November, 2015, 09:54:21 am
Impressive performance by Imperial on last night's University Challenge, scoring over 300 points.

Funnily enough, I saw an episode of Pointless last week in which all three couples in the second round also scored over 300 points - sightly less impressive in that context.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 03 November, 2015, 09:58:45 am
Currently on our regular watch list are:

The Last Kingdom - TV adaptation of Bernard Cornwall's Uthred books
You, Me and the Apocalypse - Silly (ish) end of the world comedy drama from the "Horrible History" team
The Flash - Needs no thought, TLD loves it.
Supergirl - ditto, but with the added expectation that you might see dancing babies...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 04 November, 2015, 10:32:32 pm
If anyone is watching the Great British Pottery Off, or whatever it's called, I hope you're rooting for Jim - I've known him for many years and he's a thoroughly lovely and decent chap.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 05 November, 2015, 06:26:51 pm
Right, have watched Jeckyl-n-Hyde.
Very good, I thought. Genuinely different to other treatments.

But crikey - did they REALLY think it was suitable for a 6:30 slot? It would have been pretty OTT in the Dr Who time-slot!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 09 November, 2015, 10:39:18 pm
Hunting Hitler on Nat Geo History.

As far fetched as shit from China.

Don't waste your time.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 10 November, 2015, 12:58:30 am
It seems The Hitler History Channel is not available on Freeview.

How terribly sad.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 10 November, 2015, 01:00:28 am
Who's a lucky boy then . . . ?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 12 November, 2015, 07:43:29 pm
London Spy ;  Wow!!!

Not sure I've EVER seen telly like this.

The only downers:
- a very very well worn (and thus predictable even to this dunce) plot device ending Ep1
- err ...
- oh ok; I cant see how they can keep this up. They'll have to bring some more spy-stuff plot in PDQ, which might change the whole tone. Nothing can be this absorbing for 4 hours.


[ Of course, you need to like Ben Whishaw, and not be averse to male arses. ]

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 12 November, 2015, 09:03:33 pm
[ Of course, you need to like Ben Whishaw, and not be averse to male arses. ]

I wasn't totally smitten to be honest, not even by Ben Whishaw's pert buttocks. I like dramas to be expansive but there is such a thing as too much detail (and I don't mean the sex scenes).

And then after meandering ponderously through the early stages of the relationship, it suddenly and inexplicably jumped 8 months - which I'm sure will become significant as the plot unfurls itself, but frankly I don't think I have the patience for it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 20 November, 2015, 08:17:16 pm
Power to the People (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b06q4z6j/power-to-the-people-1-keeping-the-lights-on), first of three, was well worth a watch.  Looks at the old Ferrybridge coal-fuelled station in Yorkshire and how it is being squeezed out of the market.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 24 November, 2015, 02:11:16 pm
Jessica Jones - latest in the Netflix/Marvel "Defenders" quadrilogy, started with Daredevil and will move onto Luke Cage and Iron Fist.

Don't expect The Flash, nor Arrow, it's dark, very very dark.  Also stars an former Doctor Who...
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 29 November, 2015, 08:42:46 pm
Watched the first episode of Capital today - and so far I think I like it better than the book.

It shares the same problem as the book, namely that it is populated with broad pastiches rather than fully formed characters, but that somehow seems more forgivable when they're being brought to life by the likes of Toby Jones and Rachael Stirling (although I imagined Roger being a bit more 'alpha male' than Toby Jones).

Bit of Sliding Doors geography to note - odd seeing someone get off the Tube in the City then enter a building in Southwark (Roger's office is in the Blue Fin, where I used to work).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 29 November, 2015, 09:14:54 pm
Lance being married to Andy's wife was a bit disconcerting for a while.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 29 November, 2015, 10:23:11 pm

Lance being married to Andy's wife was a bit disconcerting for a while.

Yes, just a bit.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 30 November, 2015, 10:02:51 am
Lance being married to Andy's wife was a bit disconcerting for a while.

 ;D

D'you know, Lance's / Andy's wife is Diana Rigg's daughter in real life (and indeed in Detectorists).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 30 November, 2015, 10:22:34 am
Lance being married to Andy's wife was a bit disconcerting for a while.

Oi, SPOILER tags please!  >:(

EDIT: oh, sorry - this happens in Capital. As you were .....
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 30 November, 2015, 10:25:54 am
Lance being married to Andy's wife was a bit disconcerting for a while.

 ;D

D'you know, Lance's / Andy's wife is Diana Rigg's daughter in real life (and indeed in Detectorists).

Now you said it I can totally see it.  Uh-Oh...weird fantasy alert.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: geraldc on 30 November, 2015, 10:38:17 am
Binge watched Amazon's The man in the high castle.

Alternate history where the Nazis and Japanese win WW2.
Enjoyed it I think.

(click to show/hide)

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 30 November, 2015, 12:06:08 pm
Lance being married to Andy's wife was a bit disconcerting for a while.

 ;D

D'you know, Lance's / Andy's wife is Diana Rigg's daughter in real life (and indeed in Detectorists).

Now you said it I can totally see it.  Uh-Oh...weird fantasy alert.
Please tell us he doesnt bring the TR7.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 30 November, 2015, 01:09:24 pm
Lance being married to Andy's wife was a bit disconcerting for a while.

 ;D

D'you know, Lance's / Andy's wife is Diana Rigg's daughter in real life (and indeed in Detectorists).

Now you said it I can totally see it.  Uh-Oh...weird fantasy alert.

You'll have to push Guy Garvey out of the way.  They're (Garvey and Stirling) an item.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 30 November, 2015, 01:15:46 pm
You'll have to push Guy Garvey out of the way. 

Would that be grounds for divorce?

Anyway, she'll probably give him the "Big E" soon.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 02 December, 2015, 06:57:42 am
Finally succumbed to Game of Thrones last night and watched the first three episodes on Amazon.
It's rather good. I think this might keep me going until spring.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Feanor on 06 December, 2015, 08:19:32 pm
Junior was zapping around on the Idiot Box a couple of hours ago, and we came upon the Jungle Book.
Just finished a few minutes ago.

I've not seen it for years, but remember it quite well.
It was every bit as good as I remembered it.

A true classic.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pumpkin on 06 December, 2015, 09:53:28 pm
Had to be Countryfile with Mark Beaumont riding part of the NC500 in 37 hours - 500 miles on the new Scottish route. Anyway, it's on the iplayer and it's in the first 15 mins
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrij on 06 December, 2015, 10:43:11 pm
What a Performance! Pioneers of Popular Entertainment - 1. Music Hall (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b06r7xz4/what-a-performance-pioneers-of-popular-entertainment-1-music-hall)

Good presentation on Music Hall and its development. 
If you've been on my Thames Path Meander then you've stopped at Brick Lane Music Hall; a few rides have also stopped at Wilton's Music Hall, which features in this programme.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 07 December, 2015, 08:26:46 am
Had to be Countryfile with Mark Beaumont riding part of the NC500 in 37 hours - 500 miles on the new Scottish route. Anyway, it's on the iplayer and it's in the first 15 mins
...and starts about 2:13

Well worth a watch. Presenter Ellie rides up the Bealach in daft conditions, without the producers making a mountain out of it. And then Beaumont just glides up through the snow :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 08 December, 2015, 09:15:41 pm
London Spy ;  Wow!!!

Not sure I've EVER seen telly like this.

The only downers:
- a very very well worn (and thus predictable even to this dunce) plot device ending Ep1
- err ...
- oh ok; I cant see how they can keep this up. They'll have to bring some more spy-stuff plot in PDQ, which might change the whole tone. Nothing can be this absorbing for 4 hours.


[ Of course, you need to like Ben Whishaw, and not be averse to male arses. ]

I just watched the last episode on i-Player.  It never really lived up to the promise of the first episode, but it was still stonking good telly drama.

I thought the final turn of the plot felt dreadfully BBC, but that's no bad thing.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 08 December, 2015, 09:17:16 pm
Throw your lump down.

It's the final!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 08 December, 2015, 10:48:38 pm
London Spy ;  Wow!!!

[...]

I just watched the last episode on i-Player.  It never really lived up to the promise of the first episode, but it was still stonking good telly drama.

I thought the final turn of the plot felt dreadfully BBC, but that's no bad thing.

Also just watched it.  Not really sure what to think, other than being generally relieved that they didn't borrow the MacGuffin from Sneakers.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 09 December, 2015, 10:46:32 am
Throw your lump down.

It's the final!

I found myself enjoying that far more than I imagined I would. Maybe partly because I know Jim well so had a vested interest, but also because I found the technical stuff really interesting. Matthew was a deserving winner.

As for London Spy, my wife stuck with it to the end but I found it dull.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 09 December, 2015, 07:28:35 pm
London Spy ;  Wow!!!

Not sure I've EVER seen telly like this.

The only downers:
- a very very well worn (and thus predictable even to this dunce) plot device ending Ep1
- err ...
- oh ok; I cant see how they can keep this up. They'll have to bring some more spy-stuff plot in PDQ, which might change the whole tone. Nothing can be this absorbing for 4 hours.


[ Of course, you need to like Ben Whishaw, and not be averse to male arses. ]

I just watched the last episode on i-Player.  It never really lived up to the promise of the first episode, but it was still stonking good telly drama.

I thought the final turn of the plot felt dreadfully BBC, but that's no bad thing.
Pretty much what I thought. Although most of the the resolutions/revelations were pretty good (and made quite disturbing watching on this sofa!); it was only that final shot that rankled a bit.

As I predicted, YACF has confirmed it to be very much Marmite TV!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 10 December, 2015, 11:05:34 am
Throw your lump down.

It's the final!

I found myself enjoying that far more than I imagined I would. Maybe partly because I know Jim well so had a vested interest, but also because I found the technical stuff really interesting. Matthew was a deserving winner.


Of all of the "how to" formats, this has been by the best, eclipsing the Sewing Bee IMO (I've never really bought into Bake-off, and the painting and allotments ones were dire). Real and very varied challenges, mixing both artistic and practical skills. And helped by a great group of contestants. 
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: JenM on 10 December, 2015, 12:45:13 pm
Lovely film on the Scottish Mountain Bothy Association from the BBC. Available on iplayer for a while:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b06s1762/bothy-life (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b06s1762/bothy-life)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bumper on 14 December, 2015, 04:29:17 pm
Our Guy in Latvia - C4 9.00pm

Guy Martin travels to Latvia to uncover the history of his grandfather.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 17 December, 2015, 08:57:14 pm
The Secret Life of 4, 5 and 6 year olds at Christmas tonight on Channel 4 might be the best thing I've seen on TV all year.  Although I've not started on The Killing yet.

A little kids' nativity play.

I missed my own daughter's Mary at her school (late shift, nursing, bah) but these kids are more cute than that Jaime Lannister off of Game of Thrones. 

P-ing M L-ing.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Chris S on 17 December, 2015, 09:01:19 pm
The Secret Life of 4, 5 and 6 year olds at Christmas tonight on Channel 4 might be the best thing I've seen on TV all year.  Although I've not started on The Killing yet.

A little kids' nativity play.

I missed my own daughter's Mary at her school (late shift, nursing, bah) but these kids are more cute than that Jaime Lannister off of Game of Thrones. 

P-ing M L-ing.

W T a F?

There's quite a lot here I'm having trouble getting a hold of...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 17 December, 2015, 09:09:09 pm
I made that up.

It means my pelvic floor gives way when I watch really funny stuff on telly.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 17 December, 2015, 09:12:52 pm
I think the new way of writing PMSL was the easy bit...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 17 December, 2015, 11:27:34 pm
Girls. I watched series 1 and loved it. Didn't manage to see series 2 & 3 yet but just catching an episode of series 4 and it kind of doesn't matter that I've not kept up. It's just brilliant. Superb writing, great all round performances.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 17 December, 2015, 11:48:42 pm
This is my favourite thread at the moment.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 21 December, 2015, 11:18:15 pm
From Andy Pandy To Zebedee: The Golden Age Of Children's Television.  BBC4, on iPlayer.  A nostalgia-fest for those of us of a Certain Age but also quite interesting, and not just learning that TV's Chris Packham had nightmares about "The Singing Ringing Tree" into his twenties or that Mr Rusty off "The Magic Roundabout" was clearly a proto-hipster:

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41LSgw2xIoL.jpg)(http://previews.123rf.com/images/ysbrandcosijn/ysbrandcosijn1401/ysbrandcosijn140100130/25226815-Retro-hipster-1900-fashion-man-with-black-hair-and-beard-Wearing-black-hat-Studio-shot-against-grey--Stock-Photo.jpg)
A hipster, yesterdayMr Rusty

Didn't have the classic Camberwick Green opening sequence with PC McGarry DCI Hunt kicking in a nonce and because it's the BBC it didn't have Jenny Hanley either chiz but there are Clangers.

(Has moment involving Pat Keysell)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 27 December, 2015, 11:43:52 am
Not tonight, but Saturday next, series 2 of "The Young Montalbano".
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ElyDave on 27 December, 2015, 01:21:06 pm
The second half of And Then There Were None for me I think.

Although I know the story backwards, it's interesting to see the different productions
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: red marley on 27 December, 2015, 01:55:07 pm
The second half of And Then There Were None for me I think.

Although I know the story backwards, it's interesting to see the different productions

And then there was one more?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 27 December, 2015, 06:00:05 pm
We watched ep one last night and will return for a second helping tonight, quivering bollocksometers notwithstanding.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 27 December, 2015, 08:09:16 pm
I often find the Marple-type Agatha Christies twee and tedious - this is in another league.

(but clashes with the Homeland finale, which takes precedence over just about anything :) )
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 27 December, 2015, 10:16:08 pm
It's a bit earnest, isn't it? I expect a good dose of camp in Agatha Christie. And fewer F-bombs. Aidan Turner with his shirt off though, eh? Phwoar!

Better than the deathly dull Dickensian though.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 27 December, 2015, 10:22:12 pm
The men have been washing up and Looking for Cables.
The women have been watching Ten little names changed.

The men didn't find the right cable. I think I need a Cable Chest and a database.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 28 December, 2015, 12:45:44 am
The considered verdict on "Harry Price: Ghost Hunter" is that it had the bollocksometer deep in the red zone from the first advert break onwards.  They are clearly angling to get a series commissioned, a sort of 1920s X-Files ::-). Good luck with that.

Neil Spring, who wrote the book on which it was based, is a Jolly Nice Chap but even so...

Edit: Dr Larrington reports that Neil Spring is tweeting "Yay! Series in the offing!"
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tigerrr on 28 December, 2015, 08:07:04 pm
I have just watched all three series of Vikings. On Amazon. Now that is proper telly. I am off to het my head shaved and tattood. Plus none of may axes are big enough.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 28 December, 2015, 11:12:15 pm
Not being familiar with Mrs Christie's "And Then There Was Nonse" I quite enjoyed the twist as I thought the Pretty Young Gel and the Smouldering Fenian would unmask the murderer in the last five minutes.  Still, at least it allowed me to crack the joke about the right to arm BEARs last night and yea, and verily, Dr Larrington did hit me.  We did feel them was some rather anachronistic dialogue though, picky buggers that we are.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 01 January, 2016, 10:41:18 pm
Sherlock: started promisingly enough but then travelled far, far, up its own bottom.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Robh on 01 January, 2016, 11:02:19 pm
Sherlock: started promisingly enough but then travelled far, far, up its own bottom.
+1
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 01 January, 2016, 11:52:31 pm
Disappointed that Lady Carmichael did't ask Sir Eustace "what's the matter, darling?" but that's been par for the course with Tim McInnerny since 1989.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 02 January, 2016, 12:11:58 pm
I was finding it excruciatingly dull so went to bed with a good book instead.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 02 January, 2016, 12:13:22 pm
Disappointed that Lady Carmichael did't ask Sir Eustace "what's the matter, darling?" but that's been par for the course with Tim McInnerny since 1989.
That is a VERY cryptic reference sir!

Sherlock: started promisingly enough but then travelled far, far, up its own bottom.
+1

Well, yeah, fair review. But the last section was still pretty good if you enabled "dont care that none of this makes any sense" mode for 15mins.

(click to show/hide)

the dialog in the first half was just fantastic. I think they allowed themselves a little more silliness and self-parody, as it's a christmas special. More of that please!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 02 January, 2016, 12:15:37 pm
Tomorrow sees the return of Endeavour  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrij on 03 January, 2016, 12:13:02 am
Sherlock: started promisingly enough but then travelled far, far, up its own bottom.
+1

Bah! And moreover, Humbug!  Methinks some forumites might be inspecting their own fundaments from the inside.

Lighten up, folks, it's a Christmas Special!  I found it thoroughly entertaining.  Was it perfect?  Of course not.  But what telly is? 
I give it 9/10.
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 03 January, 2016, 12:18:21 am
Just watched Sherlock.  Delightfully silly.  My lurgy-addled brain isn't sure whether it actually made sense, but that didn't make Duane Dibbley any less funny either, so I don't think I care.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: runsoncake on 03 January, 2016, 12:41:58 am
  My lurgy-addled brain isn't sure whether it actually made sense,

Yuck New Year lurgy  :( GWS Kim
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 03 January, 2016, 12:50:25 pm
Bah! And moreover, Humbug!  Methinks some forumites might be inspecting their own fundaments from the inside.

Why? There's been a lot of "if you didn't enjoy it you must be humourless and/or stupid" on social media, but the simple fact is that it was just... dull.

Quote
Lighten up, folks, it's a Christmas Special!  I found it thoroughly entertaining.

I found the steady stream of self-congratulatory in-jokes tedious to the point of distraction. It might have been more entertaining had Moffat spent less time showing off how clever he is. I don't mind a convoluted plot, but this was actually just convoluted storytelling of an inanely simplistic plot.

Gatiss eating himself to death for a bet was amusing though. Andrew Scott is always good value too.

I hear the ending featured a man explaining feminism to a murderous suffragette cult in purple kkk outfits. Sounds amazing. Almost wish I'd stuck with it.

Anyway, looking forward to being equally disappointed by War & Peace tonight.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 03 January, 2016, 02:36:04 pm
War and Peace, Deutschland 83 and the new Welsh language (with sub-titles, I hope) political thriller Byw Celwydd all starting at 9 tonight.  Then French political thriller Spin starting later this week. I must check how much space we have left to record stuff. Might have to clear a couple of Hinterlands this afternoon.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 03 January, 2016, 02:46:12 pm
Where is this Welshovik Thing to be found, apart from not in my TV listings mag?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 03 January, 2016, 02:51:11 pm
Where is this Welshovik Thing to be found, apart from not in my TV listings mag?

S4C m'lud. So not available via an aerial, but Murdochvision has it on 134 and Virginmeeja have it on 166.  Or presumably over t'intarwebs.

Edit: What I should have written is "not available via an aerial for people dwelling outside of Wales, eg Mr Larrington."
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 03 January, 2016, 03:36:41 pm
Just needs a *really big* aerial....
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 03 January, 2016, 03:58:47 pm

War and Peace, Deutschland 83 and the new Welsh language (with sub-titles, I hope) political thriller Byw Celwydd all starting at 9 tonight. 

I like the look of Deutschland 83 and Spin. Not sure about Byw Celwydd - sounds like a Welsh version of Borgen. Will check it out though.

And if they all turn out to be shite, at least we've got a box set of Engrenages S1-4 to get stuck into.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 03 January, 2016, 09:57:45 pm
Endeavour was quite good.
Edit: Apart from the solution being a deus ex machina at the end with almost no hints along the way.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 03 January, 2016, 11:09:41 pm
Not sure about Byw Celwydd - sounds like a Welsh version of Borgen. Will check it out though.
I wouldn't bother.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 03 January, 2016, 11:29:15 pm
Endeavour was noted for its disappointingly low space shuttle content.

Speaking of which, this year's RI Christmas Lectures (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/b00pmbqq) score well on astronauts and enthusiastic space scientists, surprisingly low on Kerbals, and include a couple of rather nifty demonstrations as well as just the right amount of silliness and plenty of stuff that goes BNAG!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 04 January, 2016, 08:55:09 am
Also Roger Allam is always going to be Peter Mannion, no matter how many coppers he plays.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Zipperhead on 04 January, 2016, 11:46:33 am
Also Roger Allam is always going to be Peter Mannion, no matter how many coppers he plays.

Oh thank you Mr. Larrington for you have put my brain out of its misery and I can wander over to the tenuous claims to fame thread.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Redlight on 04 January, 2016, 02:07:58 pm
Presenter Ellie rides up the Bealach in daft conditions, without the producers making a mountain out of it.

Just caught up with this (having never seen the prog before) and I think I'm in love  ;)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 07 January, 2016, 06:34:41 pm
Not tonight, but close enough that one can program the PVR - a new series of Brian Pern starts on the 14th on bbc4.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Deano on 10 January, 2016, 08:29:30 pm
Walking the Himalayas is dead good tonight.

Ok, it helps that I've been there and much of his experience mirrors mine, but I did enjoy the holy man's response to his basic opening question: "didn't you look me up on the Internet?" ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 10 January, 2016, 08:59:26 pm
Endeavour.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 10 January, 2016, 09:06:12 pm
Endeavour.

Yes, was really glad to see this re-commissioned. I did hear the Dexter estate had put a block on more after the last series so this was a pleasant surprise.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 24 January, 2016, 09:18:50 pm
Did DI Thursday just refer to 'His old sargeant, Vimes, of cable street'?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 25 January, 2016, 02:08:16 pm
Did DI Thursday just refer to 'His old sargeant, Vimes, of cable street'?

I thought I heard that as well.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 25 January, 2016, 06:33:21 pm
Deutschland83 is filling the Homeland-shaped hole in our lives quite well. (With a bit more humour!)

its far from perfect, but it is endearingly different from anything else I can think of, and features authentically dire 80's Europop theme music.

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 26 January, 2016, 06:53:24 am
I finally got round to watching the BBC adaptation of Iain Banks' Stonemouth last night, which confirmed my suspicion that it's just a reheated version of The Crow Road but much less good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 26 January, 2016, 08:05:35 am
Did anyone else know that there is a new 24 hour bike channel called, imaginatively, 'Bike'? Sky channel 464, Virgin 552. I came across it by chance last night, showing a rotund Paolo Savoldelli on a climb with a presenter, giving a blow-by-blow account of going up it in the Giro once. I can't find a schedule but did find this http://www.skymedia.co.uk/news/bike-channel-to-launch.aspx (http://www.skymedia.co.uk/news/bike-channel-to-launch.aspx).  It looks to be mainly racing/triathlon based, but not exclusively so.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 26 January, 2016, 08:57:06 am
Indeed, Nuncio, there is a whole thread about that channel!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 26 January, 2016, 09:44:30 am
Walking the Himalayas is dead good tonight.

Ok, it helps that I've been there and much of his experience mirrors mine, but I did enjoy the holy man's response to his basic opening question: "didn't you look me up on the Internet?" ;D

I've enjoyed both his walks.  His military training may give people the impression that his walks are easier than they actually are though. 
He makes light work of very difficult terrain and conditions.

I've also noticed, on several similar documentaries, that "Holy Men" in the remotest of places seem to receive a lot of telephone calls.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 26 January, 2016, 10:49:08 am
Indeed, Nuncio, there is a whole thread about that channel!

Oh yes. Found it. Duncio, more like. Carry on.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 28 January, 2016, 11:20:31 am
I think it's tonight, part 2 of 6 of "The Brain" with David Eagleman on BBC4 @ 21:00. Part one was excellent.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 28 January, 2016, 07:09:36 pm
Having somehow missed every single episode of "The Peep Show" for about 10 years I have finally played catchup (on 4 On Demand) and am on the final few episodes of Series 9.

I'm addicted and I'll be distraught when it's over.

It was worth missing just to immerse myself in it all.

Brilliant (hardly a topical review I know).

I suppose every man lies somewhere in between Mark and Jeremy.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: hillbilly on 29 January, 2016, 07:17:55 am
That's saying all men are self centred, surely?

But Peep Show is great. The dog BBQ episode is almost perfect from memory.

Still not as good as Father Ted though...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 February, 2016, 11:49:23 pm
sparticus

How was this given 4 seasons? terrible, terrible accents, wooden acting, awful costumes.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 07 February, 2016, 07:03:53 pm
Not tonight but 'tother evening.

Some bastard shot Derek Griffiths :o
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 07 February, 2016, 07:27:24 pm
I thought you were going to say George Dixon!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bumper on 07 February, 2016, 07:30:08 pm
Not tonight but 'tother evening.

Some bastard shot Derek Griffiths :o

think you're a bit old to be watching Play Away
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Dibdib on 07 February, 2016, 07:34:41 pm
It's Superbowl Sunday, so a few mates and I will be staying up to watch the game, drink awful American beer (I've got a fridge full of Coors) and eat pizza and pretzels. I've even managed to obtain some Twinkies, although I'm not sure they officially count as food.

I haven't checked, but I think we'll all be supporting the Panthers.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 07 February, 2016, 08:13:04 pm
I've even managed to obtain some Twinkies, although I'm not sure they officially count as food.

They're a unit of psychokinetic energy.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 February, 2016, 12:04:57 pm
Not tonight but 'tother evening.

Some bastard shot Derek Griffiths :o

I had to check the credits after spending much of part 1 mumbling "I'm sure I've seen him before".
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrew on 08 February, 2016, 06:47:47 pm
London Spy ;  Wow!!!

Not sure I've EVER seen telly like this.

Late on this one but it was only a few weeks back that a friend recommended it to me.

I watched episodes 1 and 2 last night and I must say I'm really rather taken. It's got a weirdness to it that marks it out. I realise that's a marmite experience but I personally am a sucker for weird. Of course, it could all end up being a pile of wombat dung (and end up disappointing more than some NCIS shite that I expect no better from) BUT, for the moment, yes, describe me hooked.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 09 February, 2016, 03:54:47 pm
If you like weird use 4OD (or whatever it's called now) and watch Utopia.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 10 February, 2016, 08:40:54 am
And one from, I think, Monday night, Addicted to Sheep. Superb. It'll be on Iplayer I expect.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 10 February, 2016, 12:42:11 pm
The Story of China

Michael Wood's multi-part documentary is great viewing if like me your grasp of Chines history is lacking. All episodes so far are still on Iplayer I think.

As an aside where has Michael Wood been for the last couple of decades ? I remember him being on telly loads in the late 80s and early 90s.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: billplumtree on 10 February, 2016, 01:52:31 pm
And one from, I think, Monday night, Addicted to Sheep. Superb. It'll be on Iplayer I expect.

It is.  Can't recommend it enough.  I saw the full 90-minute version (the director's cut  ;D ) at the cinema.  Full of warm, gentle humour and affectionate (self-)mocking, counterpointed by the harshness of the North Pennines in winter.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 10 February, 2016, 02:45:39 pm
The Story of China

Michael Wood's multi-part documentary is great viewing if like me your grasp of Chines history is lacking. All episodes so far are still on Iplayer I think.

As an aside where has Michael Wood been for the last couple of decades ? I remember him being on telly loads in the late 80s and early 90s.

He did the "History of Britain" didn't he? Ah no - "The Peoples History" in 2012 - digs around Britain. This China one is excellent, I agree.
Title: Re: Television tonight, what WAS worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 15 February, 2016, 10:03:21 pm
Sorry, bit late for this...

The People vs O.J. Simpson. Well acted, sharply edited and beautifully photographed. Even though you know how it's going to end.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 16 February, 2016, 11:04:32 am
Likewise AC/DC And The Story Of Aussie Rock from BBC4 last Friday.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 16 February, 2016, 08:56:30 pm
Likewise AC/DC And The Story Of Aussie Rock from BBC4 last Friday.

The history of AC/DC is one of immigrants...going over there, taking their bloody Rock Band jobs.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 16 February, 2016, 10:02:37 pm
True, though for a change it wasn't just the Scotsish.  First record company founded by a Schnibble and one half of the production team a Dutchie.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Riggers on 17 February, 2016, 01:27:15 pm
I thought you were going to say George Dixon!


Ha Ha Ha !!! Love that. Excellent.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 07 March, 2016, 10:31:04 pm
Just watched the first episode of Murder. Very nearly gripping.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 11 March, 2016, 10:52:40 am
Just watched the first episode of Murder. Very nearly gripping.

Directed by Birger Larsen, apparently, who directed early episodes of The Killing.  And yet, I thought Murder was godawful, borderline unwatchable.  Hated the format.   A series of single individuals talking to camera and therefore no interplay between characters.  Mrs Thor, OTOH, liked it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 11 March, 2016, 06:25:37 pm
It was certainly different.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: madcow on 11 March, 2016, 08:06:49 pm
Julia Bradbury Walks with View- Dufton to High Cup Nick . On now.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Dibdib on 11 March, 2016, 08:09:26 pm
Crufts, for the awwww, but generally not the breed-judging bits. Enjoying the agility and flyball though.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 11 March, 2016, 08:16:37 pm
Crufts, for the awwww, but generally not the breed-judging bits. Enjoying the agility and flyball though.

Do they explain the logistics?  There's been some debate in our household[1] about what happens to all the dog poo at Crufts.  Advanced googling (to filter out *that* video clip) suggests that:

a) Crufts is where people go to exhibit novel ways of dealing with dog poo.
b) Someone has been selectively breeding a special type of worm for the purpose.
c) FORRIN doggists from ABROAD are in the habit of emptying theirs all over the car park.
d) You can tell it's large breeds day, cos it looks like they've been parking Shetland ponies.  Apparently.
e) The whole place stinks of piss, because it's hard to stop dogs from furtively weeing against things.
f) Bags and bins are provided.

I'm imagining someone trundling around on a little tractor, pulling a trailer full of shit, like they do at Glastonbury...  :sick:


[1] Ideally barakta would ask her colleague who knows about this sort of thing, but she's taken the week off for Crufts.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Dibdib on 11 March, 2016, 08:30:31 pm
I guess that Crufts is the leading reason why nobody should ever invent Smell-o-Vision.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 11 March, 2016, 09:27:08 pm
Only discovered yesterday that there's a new series of Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle started (ep. 2 last night).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 11 March, 2016, 09:32:39 pm
Been watching Thicker Than Water, some Swedish thing on More 4.
Uplifting. Or something.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 12 March, 2016, 09:06:26 am
Waldemar Januszczak - The Renaissance Unchained BBC4

All episodes on iPlayer now. He's always  good value.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 12 March, 2016, 10:45:34 am
Only discovered yesterday that there's a new series of Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle started (ep. 2 last night).
Same here.

How did the feck did the Beeb broadcast that for TWO WEEKS without any promotion?  :facepalm:

Grrr.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 12 March, 2016, 11:20:23 am
Waldemar Januszczak - The Renaissance Unchained BBC4

All episodes on iPlayer now. He's always  good value.

+1
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: microphonie on 17 March, 2016, 06:35:41 pm
Only discovered yesterday that there's a new series of Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle started (ep. 2 last night).
Same here.

How did the feck did the Beeb broadcast that for TWO WEEKS without any promotion?  :facepalm:

Grrr.

Stewart Lee explains the lack of trailers in this interview in  The Quietus  (http://thequietus.com/articles/19817-stewart-lee-interview)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 17 March, 2016, 09:35:29 pm
Guy Martin with David Coulthard. It's ace  ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 18 March, 2016, 12:25:29 am
I think I may have regressed to age four as that was probably the last time I laughed so much at someone blowing a prolonged raspberry.  BAD Stewart Lee.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 18 March, 2016, 08:59:08 am
I think I may have regressed to age four as that was probably the last time I laughed so much at someone blowing a prolonged raspberry.  BAD Stewart Lee.

Twisted genius.

But the one that really made me wet myself laughing was his impression of Chubby Brown.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: caerau on 18 March, 2016, 10:30:50 am
OK, so it was last night but I just *had* to watch Childhood's End on Sky 1 last night.


This I recall was by far the best Arthur C. Clarke book I read as a kid - my Dad had his entire collection from when *he* was a kid iirc.  Certainly it knocked spots off 'The Sentinel' (aka 2001: A Space Odyssey). 
Wasn't sure if it would make a good TV show or filum but I gave it a go.
Didn't disappoint - I knew it would be cerebral rather than bang flash - waaah - spaceships!  And the revelation at the end of part I (which I'm sure came much later in the book - this is a 3 x 2 h miniseries) got my wife very interested in it - which was cool.  Bwahaha - she has no clue where it's going - which is really refreshing too.


Looking forward to the remaining two episodes. :-)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: TimC on 18 March, 2016, 11:00:19 am
Guy Martin with David Coulthard. It's ace  ;D

Thoroughly enjoyed that! Suitably impressed that DC made 3 laps in the RB at racing speed without dislocating his neck, though he did admit to it being very tiring. After so long away from regular F1 driving, I imagine it was quite hard work!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: sg37409 on 18 March, 2016, 04:00:12 pm
I think I may have regressed to age four as that was probably the last time I laughed so much at someone blowing a prolonged raspberry.  BAD Stewart Lee.

Twisted genius.

But the one that really made me wet myself laughing was his impression of Chubby Brown.

Totally lost on me. Been closer to laughing at some mothers do have 'em.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 18 March, 2016, 04:22:36 pm
Tonight is DAREDEVIL TIME!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ElyDave on 18 March, 2016, 04:31:15 pm
Anything but sport relief.

Missed that Guy Martin thing, may have to download for catchup.  I'm still only on ep 3 of Trapped
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 18 March, 2016, 06:40:39 pm
Tonight is DAREDEVIL TIME!

That's my weekend gone, then!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 18 March, 2016, 08:31:37 pm
Tonight is DAREDEVIL TIME!

That's my weekend gone, then!
One episode down, it's a bit nail biting
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ElyDave on 18 March, 2016, 08:35:08 pm
Is that on Sky, or pleb telly?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 18 March, 2016, 08:46:18 pm
Is that on Sky, or pleb telly?

Nut flicks
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ElyDave on 18 March, 2016, 08:54:07 pm
Is that on Sky, or pleb telly?

Nut flicks

Brazil TV?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 18 March, 2016, 08:56:21 pm
Is that on Sky, or pleb telly?
netflix only
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 19 March, 2016, 10:23:20 am
Those with Dingovision or similar non-terrestrial receiving apparatus will be able to view Bill Hicks: Sane Man on Gold tonight at hours 23:00.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 20 March, 2016, 09:09:00 pm
I think I may have regressed to age four as that was probably the last time I laughed so much at someone blowing a prolonged raspberry.  BAD Stewart Lee.

I tried not to laugh, but it was funny cos it was cat poop.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Pingu on 20 March, 2016, 09:47:25 pm
I think I may have regressed to age four as that was probably the last time I laughed so much at someone blowing a prolonged raspberry.  BAD Stewart Lee.

I tried not to laugh, but it was funny cos it was cat poop.

 ::-)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 21 March, 2016, 01:04:43 pm
Guy Martin with David Coulthard. It's ace  ;D

Thoroughly enjoyed that! Suitably impressed that DC made 3 laps in the RB at racing speed without dislocating his neck, though he did admit to it being very tiring. After so long away from regular F1 driving, I imagine it was quite hard work!

What impressed me most was Guy Martin's BMW S 1000 RR (and of course his ability to hang off it).

Yes, it's modified for racing but it's fundamentally still a £13,000 road bike up against a Starship's worth of unobtainium-based technology (the expensive bits of which are generally fecked after a few hundred miles).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 23 March, 2016, 10:17:40 pm
It’s over now, but Employable Me on BBC2 was superbly done and extremely moving. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0755nyq

Also over (sorry, but I don’t want to start a new thread on two entirely separate programmes and there is always iPlayer) - Louis Theroux’s Extreme Love:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0755nyq

Autism. Watch it. I think Theroux does this kind of thing so well.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 24 March, 2016, 09:26:52 am
The Beginning And End Of The Universe - two-parter on BBC4, first ep broadcast Tuesday March 22.  Jimmy Alka-Seltzer Jim Al-Khalili manages to make the Big Bang etc. almost comprehensible, though I notice that while it is de rigeur for TV physicists to sit on mountain tops gazing into the universe, Brian Cox gets to ponce around USAnia in a Mustang while poor Jimbo has to make do with the Canaries and a poxy Citröen.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: caerau on 24 March, 2016, 07:44:11 pm
I had an interesting conversation with my work colleagues about Brian Cox the other day.


Personally I can't stand him - whilst I was doing my PhD  I was getting pissed on the night and (reluctantly to them at least) hearing D-Ream on the jukebox at the time. Mostly though I was in the lab working on getting my PhD and getting academic publications, then getting post-doc positions and then getting appointed to academic positions whilst reasearching, supervising students, doing teaching, attending conferences etc.


Later in life I discover that one said member of that band is now a wurld famous 'physicist' and is a genius - whilst apparently having done the crucial years being the keyboard player touring the world in that band.
How so?  I've always wondered- is he *really* a physicist?


It seems all of us academic scientists (well 'all' being the various people I chatted to last week) can't stand him for those very reasons.  He has a degree sure (a PhD? apparently yes), but he's got not much of an academic record to speak of really - like a proper professor would be absolutely required to - even a junior lecturer would probably have a better publication record.


But - of course- we is spreading the word and is therefore almost beyond value in making science cool.  Hence he's on just about every grant CERN want to put in as he is the impact.  And what an impact.  Impact that's him, not the actual science.


Not really a proper professor in the usual academic sense.


Jim Al-Khalili is bona fide - I do like him a lot - but then as you say - he gets Citroen when Cox gets the Mustang.  Typically though Cox does in the end - probably get more grant money for his public profile.  We need a chemist like this - I wonder of one of 1 Direction is doing a degree in chemistry...?  :-D



Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 24 March, 2016, 07:45:37 pm
But he's got such lovely hair.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: caerau on 24 March, 2016, 08:14:32 pm
 ;D

I think what i forgot to finish with was all power to him - the non-scientists love him which is great. He's not entirely ignorant  :) On balance there are the doers and there are the public faces - both have their place.

He's hopefully not *all* the impact of course - the science itself is what really counts of course.

Anywat - back to Masterchef  O:-)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 24 March, 2016, 08:14:50 pm
But he's got such lovely hair.

Whereas Jimmy-boy is as bald as the Portland Vase.  OTOH he hasn't commited crimes against the ozone layer like Brian Cox.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: caerau on 24 March, 2016, 08:37:45 pm
I rather liked the days of the wild-haired mob - Magnus Pike, patrick Moore, Einstein... Richard Feynman(?)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: caerau on 24 March, 2016, 08:39:56 pm
Anyway Brian Cox - nice hair?

As with all else - in reality - an amateur...

http://www.improbable.com/hair/

 ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 24 March, 2016, 08:46:50 pm
Has anyone put Brian Cox in the same room as Kevin Warwick?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrij on 24 March, 2016, 08:47:53 pm
I rather liked the days of the wild-haired mob - Magnus Pike, patrick Moore, Einstein... Richard Feynman(?)

Martyn Poliakoff (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martyn_Poliakoff)?

(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/95/Martynpoliakoff.jpg/794px-Martynpoliakoff.jpg)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 24 March, 2016, 11:02:55 pm
I rather liked the days of the wild-haired mob - Magnus Pike, patrick Moore, Einstein... Richard Feynman(?)

And, of course, Dr Brian May.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 24 March, 2016, 11:44:58 pm
NEW SERIES OF LINE OF DUTY!

Flippin' great. I *heart* Adrian Dunbar.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 28 March, 2016, 10:59:55 am
TV's Guy Martin will attempt to reach 100 mph on an outsize Wall ov DETH tonight :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 28 March, 2016, 12:40:29 pm
Quote
But - of course- we is spreading the word and is therefore almost beyond value in making science cool.  Hence he's on just about every grant CERN want to put in as he is the impact.  And what an impact.  Impact that's him, not the actual science.

Bill Bailey theorised that a Malteser and a satsuma would produce a 'satseser' in the LHC.

What could Prof. BC best be collided with and what would it produce?

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: andyoxon on 28 March, 2016, 03:04:24 pm
TV's Guy Martin will attempt to reach 100 mph on an outsize Wall ov DETH tonight :thumbsup:

A trailer:  Guy Martin Learns How to Ride the Wall of Death   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvjWPjDkVUE

"It's gonna be a right night".
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 29 March, 2016, 09:42:37 am
with my old Part I Mechanics prof Hugh Hunt (see also: Colditz Glider and Bouncing Bomb documentaries) - one of the best teachers I've ever had.  Didn't see it at the time, but will catch up if I can bring myself to do battle with All 4.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 29 March, 2016, 12:41:52 pm
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: madcow on 30 March, 2016, 10:59:52 am
"This Farming Life" has been on BBC2 for the last couple of weeks. It features real farmers in Scotland , with the commentary coming from them and a narrator. Last episode is tonight.
 It is made by BBC Scotland and gives a really good picture of farming  life   and, of course , the scenery is superb.
Way better than the sugar coated tosh served up by Countryfile.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 25 April, 2016, 08:10:30 pm
Going to try Flowers, starting on C4 tonight and on all week, starring Olivia Coleman & Julian Barratt.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 27 April, 2016, 09:04:57 pm
Going to try Flowers, starting on C4 tonight and on all week, starring Olivia Coleman & Julian Barratt.

Watched the first double bill of this tonight, suitably bonkers, liked it :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 27 April, 2016, 09:48:11 pm
Alan Bennet's "The History Boys" on BBC 4 now. Ooh, it's good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: jsabine on 28 April, 2016, 01:34:12 am
(click to show/hide)

May I also commend as worthy of this house's rispek', the estimable Colin Furze, who felt that, as a prelude to riding the WoD, it was necessary to build his own (http://www.colinfurze.com/wall-of-death.html).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 01 May, 2016, 07:38:50 pm
Plebs ITV2 tommorow night.
Now on series three and guest stars so far have included Maureen Lipmand and Miriam Margolyes. Mind you I still think Danny Dyres galdiator last season was the best so far.
You have to like a filthy comedy  set in ancient Rome that has Mary Beard as a historical consultant.
Its a pity its hidden away on ITV2.  Ryan Sampson should get an award for his Grumio the lazy slave.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 16 May, 2016, 07:04:40 pm
BBC4, 2300 tonight

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01s954d
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 06 June, 2016, 10:03:43 am
The best thing on telly at the moment is the advert for 'Power Monkeys' with the Fun Boy Three singing 'The Lunatics have Taken Over The Asylum'.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 08 June, 2016, 06:57:58 pm
New series of Wayward Pines starts tonight.

I enjoyed the first series, for all its silliness. It will be interesting to see where they take it next. I don't have high expectations but I'm going to give it a chance.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 12 July, 2016, 07:14:57 pm
GN: http://www.channel5.com/show/Justified is back! Thu 11pm on er ... Spike.

BN: it could hardly be buried in a more obscure slot ...  and it turns out this is the last series.

Hopefully Timothy Oliphant will find another outlet for his peculiar charm. Justifed is sooo much better than all the iffy action movies he's been in.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 13 July, 2016, 09:14:17 pm
Now this, https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2016/jul/13/the-out-laws-is-this-the-blackest-comedy-ever
Looks right up my street. Starts Friday.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 13 July, 2016, 09:41:16 pm
Now this, https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2016/jul/13/the-out-laws-is-this-the-blackest-comedy-ever
Looks right up my street. Starts Friday.

Yes!  This has been booked for recording since they played the first trailer  :D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrij on 21 July, 2016, 07:43:30 pm
The Joy of Data (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b07lk6tj/the-joy-of-data), presented by Hannah Fry.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Dibdib on 22 July, 2016, 02:54:34 pm
The Joy of Data (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b07lk6tj/the-joy-of-data), presented by Hannah Fry.

That's (the wonderful) Doctor Hannah Fry to the likes of you  ;D

Thanks, I hadn't heard about it. Bookmarked for later.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 22 July, 2016, 03:12:28 pm
Reminds me of The Joy of Stats (https://www.gapminder.org/videos/the-joy-of-stats/) with Professor Hans Rosling, and the wonderful Don't Panic (https://www.gapminder.org/videos/dont-panic-the-facts-about-population/) documentary.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: caerau on 25 July, 2016, 08:49:16 pm
Was on yesterday* but we watched a rather wonderful and bizarre documentary about a film Saddam Hussein commissioned long ago in - well Iraq- starring one Oliver Reed - filmed just as the Iran-Iraq war started. Well worth watching - really quite bizarre with some wonderful stuff concerning Oliver Reed's usual antics, some rather disturbing stuff concerning that there war and how some of the crew managed to escape.




*So still on whatever CH4's iplayer equiv is
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 26 July, 2016, 11:58:04 pm
I watched Naked Attraction out of curiosity. I didn't imagine it was possible for a programme featuring so many naked bodies to be so incredibly dull. And the presenter is really annoying.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Basil on 27 July, 2016, 12:07:35 am
Am I the only one here who thinks that "Television tonight, whats worth watching" is an oxymoron?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 27 July, 2016, 12:10:48 am
Am I the only one here who thinks that "Television tonight, whats worth watching" is an oxymoron?

This is not the thread you are looking for.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 27 July, 2016, 07:27:43 am
Am I the only one here who thinks that "Television tonight, whats worth watching" is an oxymoron?

Oxymoron: spot cream for ["Poisonous term" - Ed.]s
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 30 July, 2016, 11:48:35 pm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b07k189v/life-and-deaf

Deaf people being real, in a slightly staged for camera sort of way.  I don't think I've ever seen so much sarcastic signing (like you get in real life) on the telly before.  Well worth watching, even if you're just reading the subs (or listening to the AD version for a voiceover).

* Contains audist audiologists and sportsball or traces of sportsball.


ETA: Having just watched some of the AD version out of curiosity, it's bizarrely flat.  That's what you get when you have voice-over people (presumably with AD expertise) reading out the subtitles, rather than BSL interpreters translating the conversation to English.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ElyDave on 31 July, 2016, 06:46:27 pm
The Imitation Game - Alan Turing played by cumberbatch is on this evening, which means I can miss the third episode of the secret agent and binge watch them later.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 05 August, 2016, 07:02:37 pm
How are you finding The Secret Agent? I like most of the components, but (after 2 Eps) its just not drawing me in.

It may be because its like "regular" spy stuff, but in a very different era; and I'm thus not very clear on the motivations of people. Maybe.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 09 August, 2016, 03:04:02 pm
Not tonight, but supposedly sometime this month, series 4 of Ripper Street will be on the BBC.  First episode heavily edited - or maybe split into 2 on the beeb - as it's 2hrs+ long.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 17 August, 2016, 04:24:00 pm
Inside The Factory (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b07pmyd6/inside-the-factory-series-2-4-bicycles) does bicycles.  Soz, it was on last night but I didn't find out about it until this morning.  On iPlayer for another 4 weeks.

Warning: May contain Mike Burrows or traces of Mike Burrows.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 17 August, 2016, 07:53:26 pm
Grand Tours of Scotland on BBC2 has a chap riding around on a funky trike, and mountain biking around Aviemore  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 18 August, 2016, 09:03:40 am
Monday night, 21:00 BBC 2 - Ripper Street series 4 begins.

And tonight, 5 of 6 of Full Steam Ahead.  I've enjoyed this more than I expected (though I generally do enjoy the Goodman/Ginn/Langlands programmes)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 22 August, 2016, 09:20:26 pm
Inside The Factory (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b07pmyd6/inside-the-factory-series-2-4-bicycles) does bicycles.  Soz, it was on last night but I didn't find out about it until this morning.  On iPlayer for another 4 weeks.

Warning: May contain Mike Burrows or traces of Mike Burrows.

Actually, if you haven't watched it, don't bother.  It's mostly shit, and has a red-trousered hipster.  In it.  I have mostly managed to avoid mockney bellend Gregg Wallace up to now and will take precautions to do the same in future.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: andyoxon on 07 September, 2016, 06:02:43 pm
Broken Trust.  BBC1 South.  7.30pm

and from today's news: Southern Health boss Katrina Percy had new job 'created for her'
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-37288843
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 11 September, 2016, 10:08:00 pm
Now this, https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2016/jul/13/the-out-laws-is-this-the-blackest-comedy-ever
Looks right up my street. Starts Friday.

Yes!  This has been booked for recording since they played the first trailer  :D

Just caught up with this, enjoyed it :)

Pingu guessed the end about 3 episodes in, as usual...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mcshroom on 12 September, 2016, 07:37:05 pm
I'm currently watching "Extreme Wales" on BBC1 Wales. Seeing Richard Parks ride from the Brecon Beacons to the top of Snowden.

He's switching between a MTB and a road bike and even with the weather being very welsh, it still looks stunning! :thumbsup:

edit - program link is http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07w0ck8
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 21 September, 2016, 07:34:17 pm
I dont really get Modern and/or Conceptual Art, so I would rarely watch a BBC4 prog on such an artist. But this programme was different; I guess because its more the story of a man (a rather unusual one, admittedly). It was certainly as strange as the blurb suggested. I only caught the 2nd half, which was oddly moving:

www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07w6gkw
The Bob Parks Story

If anyone here actually knows anything about Parks, I'd like to hear from them.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ElyDave on 21 September, 2016, 10:27:37 pm
Inside The Factory (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b07pmyd6/inside-the-factory-series-2-4-bicycles) does bicycles.  Soz, it was on last night but I didn't find out about it until this morning.  On iPlayer for another 4 weeks.

Warning: May contain Mike Burrows or traces of Mike Burrows.

Actually, if you haven't watched it, don't bother.  It's mostly shit, and has a red-trousered hipster.  In it.  I have mostly managed to avoid mockney bellend Gregg Wallace up to now and will take precautions to do the same in future.

The Burrows snippets were worth it.  Just wish I'd been in Cambridge that day to try his bike, I have a feeling I'd have been one of a small group.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 21 September, 2016, 10:45:49 pm
Ibiza Weekender.

It's stunning.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 21 September, 2016, 10:55:54 pm

If anyone here actually knows anything about Parks, I'd like to hear from them.

It may be worth coming to Andover Council Offices Matt.  I noticed there's an entire department devoted to him in there.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ElyDave on 22 September, 2016, 07:06:48 am
ended up watching a rerun of Yes Minister, the extended episode where he becomes Prime Minister, still very funny.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 22 September, 2016, 09:50:01 am

If anyone here actually knows anything about Parks, I'd like to hear from them.

It may be worth coming to Andover Council Offices Matt.  I noticed there's an entire department devoted to him in there.
Cool.

Do they have anything relating to Ms Recreation?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 24 September, 2016, 10:12:23 am
Travel Man is back :) :)

http://www.channel4.com/programmes/travel-man-48-hours-in/episode-guide/

New York last night was about the worst fit for this programme, but Ayowawawayday (sp?) was still very funny.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: jsabine on 26 September, 2016, 01:02:36 am
Prompted (by a review in the Waitrose free sheet no less) to find the first episode of National Treasure on C4 catchup (Tuesdays for the rest of 'em, I think).

Robbie Coltrane isn't Jimmy Savile ... Bit dark, bit fractured - don't think it's touched by greatness yet, but worth making time for the next parts.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 29 September, 2016, 07:30:10 pm
New series of The Fall starts tonight!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Dibdib on 29 September, 2016, 10:17:47 pm
Not sure if it's been mentioned here yet but as it seemed to be popular the first time around, there's a new series of Humans incoming :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 29 September, 2016, 11:45:31 pm
New series of The Fall starts tonight!

Didn't even know there was going t be another series. That was great though.

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 29 September, 2016, 11:46:29 pm
Not sure if it's been mentioned here yet but as it seemed to be popular the first time around, there's a new series of Humans incoming :)

I mentioned it on another thread. Very much looking forward to it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 30 September, 2016, 07:08:25 pm
New series of The Fall starts tonight!

Didn't even know there was going t be another series. That was great though.



I had to suffer Pingu asking me if it was supposed to be a crime drama or 24 hours in A&E.   :facepalm:
I'll know to watch the rest of the series when he's out now...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: spindrift on 09 October, 2016, 10:21:36 pm
Poldark is so terrible. The script is appalling:

"Tis a miracle!"

"No, basic anatomy!"
.

Thwarted villains go "Gah!" and crumple paper then there's some mild sexiness. Pure fromage. It's brilliant.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 10 October, 2016, 10:53:06 am
Not sure if it's been mentioned here yet but as it seemed to be popular the first time around, there's a new series of Humans incoming :)

Starts on 30th October.

We started re-watching the first series over the weekend as a refresher. It's really very good indeed. Looking forward to the new one.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 10 October, 2016, 11:15:01 am
Looking forward to the new series of The Missing, starting on Wednesday.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 10 October, 2016, 01:43:00 pm
Currently working our way through Luke Cage. Not as odd as Jessica Jones, but still dark and enjoyable.

When we can't stand the tension of that we are also working through 4 series of Continuum, easy to watch and follow.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 15 October, 2016, 03:13:18 pm
Not tonight, but last night we watched a recording of the first part of The Victorian Slum. For reality TV it was pretty good, and we learnt something new. In the doss house, if you couldn't afford 4d a night for a "coffin bed" you could get a seat - or even stand - and hang over a rope to sleep. Fascinating.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Karla on 15 October, 2016, 03:16:46 pm
Currently working our way through Luke Cage. Not as odd as Jessica Jones, but still dark and enjoyable.

When we can't stand the tension of that we are also working through 4 series of Continuum, easy to watch and follow.

You thought Jessica Jones was odd?  Heaven knows what you'll make of Twin Peaks when it returns next year!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 15 October, 2016, 03:21:22 pm
Twin Peaks [...] returns next year!

Wait, what?

*tapity-tap*

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twin_Peaks_(2017_TV_series)

*boggle*
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Joe.B on 18 October, 2016, 08:10:56 pm
Scotch: The Story of Whisky

Part two on in an hour’s time on beeb 2 here in the North. And I’m mightily looking forward to poring a glass or two 16 year old Jura as I watch it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 22 October, 2016, 07:34:59 pm
Tomorrow, 23:20, BBC2: the oft-parodied "Downfall".  Note to self: set the Machine this recording to be.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 24 October, 2016, 06:11:46 am


I had to suffer Pingu asking me if it was supposed to be a crime drama or 24 hours in A&E.   :facepalm:
I'll know to watch the rest of the series when he's out now...

Trying to watch Episode 1 now...it's a bit of a struggle...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 24 October, 2016, 01:03:28 pm
Last night I watched my first Sandy Toksvig QI.

I think it is going to work :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: cycleman on 24 October, 2016, 07:25:21 pm
Yes she seems to have that certain something   :) very enjoyable  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 24 October, 2016, 07:30:33 pm
This Unit hereby endorses la Toksvig on QI :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 24 October, 2016, 08:11:00 pm
It'll do, I suppose, until she can take over as The Doctor.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 24 October, 2016, 09:01:31 pm
No, Kathy Burke needs to be the next Dokta.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: sg37409 on 24 October, 2016, 09:45:27 pm
No, Kathy Burke needs to be the next Dokta.

Kaffy, surely.

edit to add, the Scrapheap challenge duo of Robert Llewelyn and Lisa Rogers were always my tip for the doc and assistant.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 24 October, 2016, 09:58:50 pm
edit to add, the Scrapheap challenge duo of Robert Llewelyn and Lisa Rogers were always my tip for the doc and assistant.

Ooh, good call.  Would work equally well the other way round.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 24 October, 2016, 10:05:42 pm
According to a recent dream, I am to be the next Doctor-
https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=13224.msg2089698#msg2089698
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 30 October, 2016, 06:18:02 pm
New series of Humans starts tonight. Yay!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 31 October, 2016, 11:09:02 am
New series of Humans starts tonight. Yay!

I watched about the first 20min (mainly the Berlin scenes). Kind of interesting. Overall I'm very pessimistic. (Probably not a fair review, as I was at best luke-warm about the first series! )

I think the main issues were covered early in the first series, and the rest was unoriginal pseudo-science + eye-candy. I predict this turning into another US-style 50-episode adventure with no real purpose or end-point (depending on how the ratings go).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 31 October, 2016, 11:36:01 am
I think the main issues were covered early in the first series

They've already introduced one potentially very interesting new theme in this series, but you'll have missed it if you didn't stick it through to the end - albeit a theme that's lifted from Asimov. (Though it's all so much more entertaining than Asimov's turgid prose.)

There was also a very funny scene with Josie Lawrence as a synth marriage counsellor.

And Carrie-Anne Moss is in this series too!

Quote
I predict this turning into another US-style 50-episode adventure with no real purpose or end-point (depending on how the ratings go).

Yes, that is my fear too. As a concept, it will have a limited lifespan before it descends into pure soap, so I hope they know where to end it. But I'm enjoying it so far.

And it is better than HBO's Westworld - I watched the first episode of that and found it dull dull dull. Might give it another go, to be fair - first episodes are never the best indication of how a series is going to turn out - but it really didn't grab me.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 02 November, 2016, 10:44:48 pm
Halfway through Ep5 of the The Fall. Nothing has happened yet.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 03 November, 2016, 10:00:12 am
Halfway through Ep5 of the The Fall. Nothing has happened yet.
;D

But it's all about the WAY that nothing happens. We were gripped throughout the series, even when nothing at all was happening!

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 03 November, 2016, 11:18:12 am
But it's all about the WAY that nothing happens. We were gripped throughout the series, even when nothing at all was happening!

(click to show/hide)

Much as it pains me to agree with anything you say, matt, I totally agree with this.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 03 November, 2016, 01:25:36 pm
Loving The Missing.  There's a curious mixture of obvious telegraphing and unexpected twists and turns.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 04 November, 2016, 08:05:28 am
Halfway through Ep5 of the The Fall. Nothing has happened yet.
;D

But it's all about the WAY that nothing happens. We were gripped throughout the series, even when nothing at all was happening!

(click to show/hide)

MMmmMmmm. I loved the first season (apart from the giant cliffhanger), liked the second season and apart from the last episode, was bored shitless of the 3rd season.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 November, 2016, 08:16:51 am
The Expanse
I think this might be Netflix only.

If you read Larry Niven belter short stories and novels, Arthur C Clarke, Asimov, then this is like a mash-up of all those early sci fi novels. Early settlement of the solar system, mars, the asteroid belt. 

It has real physics! Space craft have thrusters, there are problems with debris fields, etc.

I meant to only watch one episode and ended up watching 3. It's not really good, but easy viewing and if you were a fan of early sci-fi, definitely compulsive viewing.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 04 November, 2016, 05:57:05 pm
It was shown here early in the year and I liked it. Read the books, re-watched it and I now think it's the sci-fi series ever made.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 07 November, 2016, 10:41:22 pm
Just watched  Rich Hall's Presidential Grudge Match (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0828lpl). Imagine that Dave Larrington had been commissioned to make a doc about the race for the White House. With lots of swearing . . .
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 08 November, 2016, 07:57:59 am
The Expanse
I think this might be Netflix only.

If you read Larry Niven belter short stories and novels, Arthur C Clarke, Asimov, then this is like a mash-up of all those early sci fi novels. Early settlement of the solar system, mars, the asteroid belt. 

It has real physics! Space craft have thrusters, there are problems with debris fields, etc.

I meant to only watch one episode and ended up watching 3. It's not really good, but easy viewing and if you were a fan of early sci-fi, definitely compulsive viewing.

Thanks for the heads up mr c. Started watching the other night. Very good :thumbsup:

Just watched  Rich Hall's Presidential Grudge Match (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0828lpl). Imagine that Dave Larrington had been commissioned to make a doc about the race for the White House. With lots of swearing . . .

I watched some of this as well. Very entertaining :D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 November, 2016, 11:35:05 am
Just watched  Rich Hall's Presidential Grudge Match (http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0828lpl). Imagine that Dave Larrington had been commissioned to make a doc about the race for the White House. With lots of swearing . . .

Blast, missed that!  get_iPlayer, I haz sum wurk 4 u...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 11 November, 2016, 09:43:03 pm
The Expanse
I think this might be Netflix only.

If you read Larry Niven belter short stories and novels, Arthur C Clarke, Asimov, then this is like a mash-up of all those early sci fi novels. Early settlement of the solar system, mars, the asteroid belt. 

It has real physics! Space craft have thrusters, there are problems with debris fields, etc.

I meant to only watch one episode and ended up watching 3. It's not really good, but easy viewing and if you were a fan of early sci-fi, definitely compulsive viewing.

It's reminiscent of the martian resistance story arc in Babylon 5 - albeit with a second-rate Garibaldi[1].  20 years of CGI development and a lack of suspiciously humanoid alien races[2] only improve matters.



[1] RIP Jerry Doyle.  Bruce Willis presumably had other commitments.
[2] In fairness to Babylon 5, this was a function of budget practicalities rather than lack of imagination.  The non-humanoids, methane-breathers, etc. were there, but simply didn't get as much screen time.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Feanor on 11 November, 2016, 09:45:30 pm
HIGNFY tonight was quite good. Worth a look on iPlayer or whatever.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rogerzilla on 11 November, 2016, 10:24:41 pm
I watched some of the football.  Who on earth decided that the hard northern land of caber-tossing, pints of heavy, inedible offal delicacies and Rab C. Nesbitt should be represented by 10 men in *pink*?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: PeteB99 on 12 November, 2016, 10:24:27 am
I watched some of the football.  Who on earth decided that the hard northern land of caber-tossing, pints of heavy, inedible offal delicacies and Rab C. Nesbitt should be represented by 10 men in *pink*?

Well the kit was announced in Nov 2015 so the Scots have had time to get used to it.

http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/scotland-unveil-new-tartan-home-6880383 (http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/scotland-unveil-new-tartan-home-6880383)

I'd be ok with Scotland's normal kit but maybe both teams playing in white shorts was seen as a colour clash? Or maybe they just need to sell more shirts.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 12 November, 2016, 08:39:02 pm
Thursday, ch5, Jack Taylor.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob W on 14 November, 2016, 06:52:15 pm
Just came in here to +1 to The Expanse; I'd had friends recommend it to me previously and had forgotten it was on Netflix UK now. Started the first episode Friday night... next thing I knew I'd watched the first five episodes and it was 2 in the morning. It's really rather good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 November, 2016, 11:36:00 am
I managed to get my son watching it.

Ran out of decent things to watch on Netflix, so I've been watching Westworld. It's HBO, so expanses of flesh, but not as much gratuitous sex as you might expect.

One peculiarity; male 'guests' to Westworld drag female prostitutues off to bed on arrival. Female guests to Westworld get propositioned by female prostitutues and head off to 'bed' them. Not seen a single instance of a female guest having sex with a male Westworld 'robot' yet. Was that ruled out of the show because it was deemed a step too far?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Dibdib on 21 November, 2016, 08:51:05 pm
Just discovered two series of Horrible Histories on Netflix.

I don't care if it's "educational" or "kids telly", it's still fab.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 22 November, 2016, 09:48:16 am
Netflix is a treasure trove of TV.  I made the mistake, a couple of months ago, of signing up to Netflix, seemed daft not to as our TV has the app on it.

Recently we have been working through (in no real order):

Luke Cage (brilliant, best Defenders series yet)
Continuum (really good, unfortunately we are half way through series 4, the last one)
Maron (funny, if you get his humour)
American Horror Story (not really scary, but well written and acted)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 22 November, 2016, 10:00:26 am
Planet Earth II

It just keeps getting better. It almost defines the name of this thread.

Jaguar vs crocodile? Who will win??

Millipede-munching beetle-worms with stealth lighting modes.

Paaaaainfully cute baby monkeys learning to climb.

Dolphins that live in flooded forests 1000km from the sea.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 22 November, 2016, 10:02:56 am
I liked the frog protecting his babies from the wasps - that's a fearsome kick.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 22 November, 2016, 10:36:24 am
Planet Earth II

It just keeps getting better. It almost defines the name of this thread.

Jaguar vs crocodile? Who will win??

Millipede-munching beetle-worms with stealth lighting modes.

Paaaaainfully cute baby monkeys learning to climb.

Dolphins that live in flooded forests 1000km from the sea.

But no Um-Bongo chiz.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 22 November, 2016, 08:41:54 pm
Tonight's Masterchef is priceless. The 'skills' test was an absolute car crash, and now some crazy woman is making salmon with strawberry risotto.

Monica Galetti looks like she's going to murder at least a couple of the contestants.

ETA: and now Gregg Wallace has just come out with the line: "I'm desperate to dip that pork into something wet."  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 23 November, 2016, 10:57:43 am
Planet Earth II

It just keeps getting better. It almost defines the name of this thread.

Jaguar vs crocodile? Who will win??

Millipede-munching beetle-worms with stealth lighting modes.

Paaaaainfully cute baby monkeys learning to climb.

Dolphins that live in flooded forests 1000km from the sea.

Snakes chasing Iguanas will live in my nightmares forever.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 23 November, 2016, 11:41:50 am
ETA: and now Gregg Wallace has just come out with the line: "I'm desperate to dip that pork into something wet."  :facepalm:

For anyone who missed it:
https://twitter.com/OliverMaltman/status/801174075217473536

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 28 November, 2016, 01:32:46 pm
http://www.channel5.com/show/tour-de-celeb
 (http://www.channel5.com/show/tour-de-celeb)

Hmmm...

I've checked, and there really is a 'Channel 5'.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 28 November, 2016, 01:39:04 pm
BBC 4 had a program about the making of Paul Simon's Graceland album last night so it will still be on iPlayer. Really interesting.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 28 November, 2016, 03:22:19 pm
BBC 4 had a program about the making of Paul Simon's Graceland album last night so it will still be on iPlayer. Really interesting.

I watched that. Very enjoyable. I think I also watched it the first time it was shown in 1997!

Shame they didn't talk to the likes of Jerry Dammers or Billy Bragg about the more controversial aspects of the album's creation.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 28 November, 2016, 04:47:39 pm
Yep, I saw that one as well.  It's one of the VH1 Classic Albums  (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Classic_Albums) series, most of which are probably available on YouTube.  I'd only seen the one on Aja before.  I love the scenes from the mixing desk.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 28 November, 2016, 05:59:41 pm
I've enjoyed every one of those [not that I'm sure I've seen them all, IYSWIM ... ].

Who knew that VH1 had given something of value to the world??
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Auntie Helen on 28 November, 2016, 07:13:34 pm
I have really been enjoying The Missing and can't wait for the last episode on Wednesday.

What's interesting is the setting in Germany - done so well. Things like how the doorframes are, the houses, so accurate. I don't know if it was filmed here or in the UK somewhere but the small details are really really good.

The first couple of episodes were confusing with the time shifts but now I've got a handle on it it's gripping stuff.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 29 November, 2016, 02:20:34 am
Been re-watching "In the Line of Duty". First season was really good (And it's been long enough that I had forgotten most of the details).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 29 November, 2016, 11:16:45 am
I have really been enjoying The Missing and can't wait for the last episode on Wednesday.

What's interesting is the setting in Germany - done so well. Things like how the doorframes are, the houses, so accurate. I don't know if it was filmed here or in the UK somewhere but the small details are really really good.

The first couple of episodes were confusing with the time shifts but now I've got a handle on it it's gripping stuff.

Yep, filmed in Morocco, Belgium and Germany, apparently.  Mrs L and I are absolutely gripped, and similarly can't wait until Wednesday's concluding episode.

One thing I picked up on which may hold some significance is
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: geraldc on 30 November, 2016, 11:35:04 am
I managed to get my son watching it.

Ran out of decent things to watch on Netflix, so I've been watching Westworld. It's HBO, so expanses of flesh, but not as much gratuitous sex as you might expect.

One peculiarity; male 'guests' to Westworld drag female prostitutues off to bed on arrival. Female guests to Westworld get propositioned by female prostitutues and head off to 'bed' them. Not seen a single instance of a female guest having sex with a male Westworld 'robot' yet. Was that ruled out of the show because it was deemed a step too far?

I've binge watched Westworld and thoroughly enjoyed it. Quite a bit of male robot type thing having sex with female guests
(click to show/hide)
  in the last few episodes.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 30 November, 2016, 12:50:35 pm
I have really been enjoying The Missing and can't wait for the last episode on Wednesday.

What's interesting is the setting in Germany - done so well. Things like how the doorframes are, the houses, so accurate. I don't know if it was filmed here or in the UK somewhere but the small details are really really good.

The first couple of episodes were confusing with the time shifts but now I've got a handle on it it's gripping stuff.

Yep, filmed in Morocco, Belgium and Germany, apparently.  Mrs L and I are absolutely gripped, and similarly can't wait until Wednesday's concluding episode.

One thing I picked up on which may hold some significance is
(click to show/hide)

Hoping for a decent final episode because it started to feel a bit "strung out".
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 01 December, 2016, 09:48:55 am
The Missing

I think the final episode just about worked.

There's was an element of "Why the feck would you go into a haunted basement with just a candle?" about the final scenes but, thankfully, no open ending.

I'm tired of slogging through TV series where the final ending is actually just an intro to the next series, and nothing is resolved. I'll happily trade a heavy-handed explanation and recap of what I have just been watching for 8 weeks for that.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: geraldc on 01 December, 2016, 11:02:41 am
A good documentary quizzing on BBC Four last night.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b084fs6s/how-quizzing-got-cool-tvs-brains-of-britain

In a semi related note, I got a letter last night confirming my go on Mastermind will be screened on 16th Dec.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 01 December, 2016, 11:57:19 am
Specialist subject?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: geraldc on 01 December, 2016, 12:02:33 pm
Steve Jobs
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 01 December, 2016, 01:46:02 pm
A good documentary quizzing on BBC Four last night.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b084fs6s/how-quizzing-got-cool-tvs-brains-of-britain

In a semi related note, I got a letter last night confirming my go on Mastermind will be screened on 16th Dec.

Good-o!  I was speculating only the other day as to when you'd appear.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: redshift on 01 December, 2016, 02:02:12 pm
A good documentary quizzing on BBC Four last night.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b084fs6s/how-quizzing-got-cool-tvs-brains-of-britain

In a semi related note, I got a letter last night confirming my go on Mastermind will be screened on 16th Dec.

Bugger, I thought it might be you and didn't check.  <Waves from the Engine Room at MediaCity>
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 01 December, 2016, 02:28:12 pm
Steve Jobs
;D

No seriously, I'd like to know too. What specialist subject?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: geraldc on 01 December, 2016, 02:55:29 pm
No seriously, I'd like to know too. What specialist subject?

On the episode I'm on, the specialist subjects are:

Steve Jobs
The TV show Farscape
Hungarian History from 865
Black Metal (as in the Finnish type of heavy metal music)

Cue discussion on dumbing down/specialist subjects being too niche/easy

<Waves from the Engine Room at MediaCity>

<Waves back> I really enjoyed my day there!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 01 December, 2016, 03:55:35 pm
No seriously, I'd like to know too. What specialist subject?

On the episode I'm on, the specialist subjects are:

Steve Jobs
The TV show Farscape
Hungarian History from 865
Black Metal (as in the Finnish type of heavy metal music)

Cue discussion on dumbing down/specialist subjects being too niche/easy

Too easy??? There's nothing easy about listening to Black Metal. Resssspec'
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 01 December, 2016, 03:56:30 pm
They aren't dumbing down its always been so. Fred Housgo won with a specialist subject of England at the European football championships over some specific ten or fifteen year period and that was thirty years ago.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 01 December, 2016, 04:57:47 pm
The TV show Farscape

I really hope that "Nigel Farage" was one of the answers.  That's the sort of dumbing down I can get behind.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 01 December, 2016, 07:29:54 pm
I hope one of the questions was "What was the phrase used by Mr Larrington's chum Sir Hugh of Hugh to describe 'Farscape'?".  The answer being "A bowl of dicks".
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Exit Stage Left on 01 December, 2016, 07:45:43 pm
BBC 4 had a program about the making of Paul Simon's Graceland album last night so it will still be on iPlayer. Really interesting.

I watched that. Very enjoyable. I think I also watched it the first time it was shown in 1997!

Shame they didn't talk to the likes of Jerry Dammers or Billy Bragg about the more controversial aspects of the album's creation.

The film that did that was called 'Under African Skies'.
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x43esjk
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: IanDG on 01 December, 2016, 10:43:19 pm
Been watching 'Close to the Enemy' is it me that just thinks it's shite?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 01 December, 2016, 10:51:24 pm
Frankly, about as far fetched as shit from China.

Lasted about 30 mins before going to bed . . .
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: IanDG on 01 December, 2016, 11:15:18 pm
Frankly, about as far fetched as shit from China.

Lasted about 30 mins before going to bed . . .

That was one of my dad's sayings :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 03 December, 2016, 09:33:56 pm
Imitation has to be the sincerest form of flattery . . .
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: IanDG on 03 December, 2016, 09:43:00 pm
A Rebus repeat :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 05 December, 2016, 12:26:10 pm
Been watching 'Close to the Enemy' is it me that just thinks it's shite?

Not been watching it. I've long thought Stephen Poliakoff hugely overrated. Every time he does something new for the BBC, they trail it as if it's a major landmark in television but I can't think of anything of his I've seen that I actually enjoyed. Shooting The Past was OK, I suppose.

Anyone else watching the current series of Humans? I thought last night's episode was fantastic, especially the brilliant scene where one of the newly sentient synths goes to confession and asks the priest for guidance on the meaning of life.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 05 December, 2016, 01:13:14 pm
Been watching 'Close to the Enemy' is it me that just thinks it's shite?
I'm sticking with it, just in case.  What is it with the lead character's accent?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 06 December, 2016, 04:00:41 pm
Part 2 of Rillington Place, Part 1 is here (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b084k66c/rillington-place-1-ethel).

The story of John Christie, a British serial killer from long before the term was coined.

A murky, dreary, wartime London is the backdrop.  Tim Roth, as Christie and Samantha Morton as Ethel his wife, are excellent.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 09 December, 2016, 07:48:15 pm
Tonight, 21:00, BBC4, No Direction Home, Martin Scorsese's epic profile of Nobel Laureate and all-round cool fucker His Bobness :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 12 December, 2016, 09:12:46 pm
Youtube is what we use instead of telly now, right?

Anyway, this one has all the makings of a proper documentary and may appeal to those with an interest in telecoms infrastructure, manhole covers, GCHQ conspiracy theories (tinfoil hats optional, but not required) and suspicious bungalows:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_nnUbX7uuQ
https://youtu.be/K_nnUbX7uuQ
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 13 December, 2016, 07:53:27 pm
Planet Earth II (Ep 6/6) - the one about wildlife in towns and cities

The monkey parcour sequence may be the best non-fiction piece of film-making ever made.


Again I say - watch this series if you're wondering whether the licence fee is money well spent.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 14 December, 2016, 02:41:59 pm
Planet Earth II (Ep 6/6) - the one about wildlife in towns and cities

The monkey parcour sequence may be the best non-fiction piece of film-making ever made.


Again I say - watch this series if you're wondering whether the licence fee is money well spent.

The monkeys were great but it was the view of Singapore's "Garden by the Bay" that left me speechless.  It was like watching "Avatar".

Singapore (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=geKHBz8JUhE)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 14 December, 2016, 03:00:17 pm
Planet Earth II (Ep 6/6) - the one about wildlife in towns and cities

The monkey parcour sequence may be the best non-fiction piece of film-making ever made.


Again I say - watch this series if you're wondering whether the licence fee is money well spent.

I found that episode the least satisfying and rather anthropomorphic.  There was no background information - like spreading urban sprawl in India going into the leopards traditional hunting areas, or just how much of a pest urban racoons are, or how much the thieving monkeys cost hard pressed market traders. It was all a bit cosy (though as usual, spectactularly well filmed and edited) and betrayed the fact that it was really an Attenborough voice-over exercise.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 14 December, 2016, 03:22:01 pm
Fleabag

A sort of "Peep Show" from a female perspective.  Funny, crude and poignant in equal measure.

Box set of 6 on iPlayer.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 14 December, 2016, 07:10:07 pm
I found that episode the least satisfying and rather anthropomorphic.  There was no background information

With respect:

There is only so much you can fit into 50minutes. I think the background - cities grow, some species adapt better than others - was made very clear, but it's a mainstream family show, not a science paper.

...

or just how much of a pest urban racoons are, or how much the thieving monkeys cost hard pressed market traders.
Those poor city folk, harassed by the natural world like that. Not sure how more info on them would make the thing LESS anthropomorphic.  ???
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 14 December, 2016, 07:30:23 pm
Dirk Gently's Hollistic Detective Agency on Netflix.
It is surprisingly good. It only loosely follows the book, but certainly captures the spirit of it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: geraldc on 16 December, 2016, 11:30:13 am
Me at 8pm BBC2!!!!! ;D


https://twitter.com/MastermindQuiz/status/809793388119814144
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 16 December, 2016, 08:12:52 pm
11. Good start!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 16 December, 2016, 08:13:42 pm
And no passes
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 16 December, 2016, 08:28:13 pm
Ooh exciting
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 16 December, 2016, 08:30:42 pm
GO GERALD! WOO!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 16 December, 2016, 08:45:04 pm
Hurrah!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Basil on 17 December, 2016, 12:02:14 am
Just caught up with Gerald on iPlayer.  Great!  Well done.
When will the next round be shown?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: geraldc on 17 December, 2016, 08:35:05 am
Semis should be shown mid Jan to early Feb.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 17 December, 2016, 08:45:59 am
Well done Gerald  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 17 December, 2016, 08:55:40 am
I was impressed with your tactics, and composure. The lack of a Godzilla outfit did lessen the impact slightly.  ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: geraldc on 17 December, 2016, 09:38:05 am
BTW I need to apologise in advance for my choice of specialist subject in semis, it was a purely a tactical decision, and in no way an endorsement of the works.

The novels of Dan Brown
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: andyoxon on 17 December, 2016, 10:14:38 am
Good job, Gerald.   :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: PeteB99 on 17 December, 2016, 10:29:14 am
Well done Gerald.

I'm always impressed by how calm the contestants seem in front of the cameras. I'd be shaking with nerves and sweating like a pig.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 17 December, 2016, 03:00:50 pm
BTW I need to apologise in advance for my choice of specialist subject in semis, it was a purely a tactical decision, and in no way an endorsement of the works.

The novels of Dan Brown

Good thinking; you only need to read one of them.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: hillbilly on 20 December, 2016, 07:25:30 am
Fleabag

A sort of "Peep Show" from a female perspective.  Funny, crude and poignant in equal measure.

Box set of 6 on iPlayer.

I endorse this message.  It's brilliant. Certainly one of the best original shows of 2016.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 21 December, 2016, 09:13:23 pm
I recorded 'Crazyhead' in the autumn and only just found it.

It's excellent, so so funny in a very female way.  By which I mean, the women are the centre of the story and completely believable in a fighting-demony sort of way.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: thing1 on 23 December, 2016, 04:21:05 am
John Simpson 50 years of, panaroma special on iPlayer

Wonderful way to get in the seasonal spirit. Time for a stiff drink
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: thing1 on 23 December, 2016, 05:28:31 am
Youtube is what we use instead of telly now, right?

Anyway, this one has all the makings of a proper documentary and may appeal to those with an interest in telecoms infrastructure, manhole covers, GCHQ conspiracy theories (tinfoil hats optional, but not required) and suspicious bungalows:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_nnUbX7uuQ
https://youtu.be/K_nnUbX7uuQ

Well made for a YouTube job! Damn I forgot how tiny Cornish roads are.
He's clearly not heard of Google Global Cache though. Popular videos are rarely served to end users from data centers.

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 02 January, 2017, 10:02:32 pm
Just watched the Christmas special of Inside No.9. Absolutely brilliant, very clever, very funny.

(click to show/hide)

Still on iplayer, and well worth catching up on - especially if you're a fan of vintage 70s horror.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 04 January, 2017, 12:39:35 am
Don't know if the "OA" is available on Netflix in the UK, but I highly recommend it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: T42 on 04 January, 2017, 10:39:23 am
Maybe I'll give it another go. I fell asleep the first time.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 04 January, 2017, 11:04:19 am
I'm enjoying No Offence - pacy, funny, rude, grimy. If you didn't know before it would only take a few seconds to see that Paul Abbott was behind it. Joanna Scanlon and the other 2 female leads are brilliant. Even Will Mellor is better than tolerable.

New series of this starts tonight, C4 9PM.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 13 January, 2017, 06:59:37 pm
Should we be watching Mastermind tonight?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 13 January, 2017, 07:00:24 pm
Should we be watching Mastermind tonight?

Not acvording to my listings mag.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 13 January, 2017, 07:14:05 pm
Hmm, my newspaper had the Books of wossisname but I see an electronic version doesn't.

Stand down.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Basil on 13 January, 2017, 07:50:42 pm
Thanks for checking.  I had wondered myself.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 14 January, 2017, 10:26:11 am
Hmm, my newspaper had the Books of wossisname but I see an electronic version doesn't.

Stand down.

Bloke last night's books were Robert Harris; Gerald's doing Dan Brown.  Next week's mag says "Asterix, the Periodic Table, the novels of Nick Hornby, Richard Feynman and Stan Laurel" so not next week either.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: IanDG on 14 January, 2017, 07:55:33 pm
I enjoyed Taboo last week, will be watching 2nd episode tonight.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 15 January, 2017, 08:48:41 am
I enjoyed Taboo last week, will be watching 2nd episode tonight.
Hoh yessssss! [or rather we caught up with Shelock last night, but will catch-up with TabooEp2 soon ...]

I do hope they turn Tom Hardy*'s mike up in future episodes, he's too good to miss any dialogue :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 15 January, 2017, 10:03:48 am
Hmm, my newspaper had the Books of wossisname but I see an electronic version doesn't.

Stand down.

Bloke last night's books were Robert Harris; Gerald's doing Dan Brown.  Next week's mag says "Asterix, the Periodic Table, the novels of Nick Hornby, Richard Feynman and Stan Laurel" so not next week either.

Ah, I'm probably mixing my authors. So many tenterhooks on, I was.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 15 January, 2017, 10:20:13 am
After trying, and abandoning "OA" and something about crime scene cleaners, both because they were shite, we settled on "Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency". On Netflix, it stars a hobbit and it shows just what is possible when you have a great source material to work with. It also shows that Netflix don't need zombies, vampires or aliens to make a great TV series.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 15 January, 2017, 10:29:00 am
After trying, and abandoning "OA" and something about crime scene cleaners, both because they were shite, we settled on "Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency". On Netflix, it stars a hobbit and it shows just what is possible when you have a great source material to work with. It also shows that Netflix don't need zombies, vampires or aliens to make a great TV series.

I think that's actually made by BBC America ;)

BBC Four showed an adaptation in 2012 with Stephen Mangam. Pretty good, but just 4 episodes.

Good on Elijah Wood - he seems to be getting into all sorts of non-mainstream stuff.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 15 January, 2017, 10:45:54 am
I stand corrected, Matt. I was under the impression that it was a Netflix production. Apparently it's an eight part series, if the first two episodes are anything to go by it will be good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 15 January, 2017, 11:30:27 am
Endeavour aka The Young Morse. Thoroughly enjoyable and good period pieces.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 16 January, 2017, 11:36:20 am
I enjoyed Taboo last week, will be watching 2nd episode tonight.
Hoh yessssss! [or rather we caught up with Shelock last night, but will catch-up with TabooEp2 soon ...]

I do hope they turn Tom Hardy*'s mike up in future episodes, he's too good to miss any dialogue :)
So, Ep2 was just as dark and brooding. They even hired another mumbler to share some scenes with Mr Hardy.

I feel it's starting to drag its heels just a little, but then it's not a series that is all about the action sequences, so I should probably re-learn some patience!

Hardy and Pryce are both magnificent.

(I'm irritated at always being a week behind with Sherlock - MUST NOT click on the Sherlock thread ... )
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 16 January, 2017, 11:53:13 am
I enjoyed Taboo last week, will be watching 2nd episode tonight.
Hoh yessssss! [or rather we caught up with Shelock last night, but will catch-up with TabooEp2 soon ...]

I do hope they turn Tom Hardy*'s mike up in future episodes, he's too good to miss any dialogue :)

Tom Hardy has pretty much made Brooding & Menacing his own.  I haven't checked my dictionary but it may even say, "See: Tom Hardy" for those two entries.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: redshift on 16 January, 2017, 07:28:39 pm
Grand Budapest Hotel on Film 4 tonight, 2100.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 16 January, 2017, 07:49:19 pm
Grand Budapest Hotel on Film 4 tonight, 2100.
:thumbsup:

Just watching the trailer made me smile at the memories.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 17 January, 2017, 08:51:06 am
BBC iPlayer - Italy's Invisible Cities

Astounding.
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 22 January, 2017, 11:22:31 pm
This evening we started watching the new Netflix adaptation of Lemony Snicket's A Series Of Unfortunate Events. It's fab.

My son read the books when he was around 8-10 and loved them much more than the Harry Potters, which pleased me because I'm of the opinion that they are superb children's books, very well written and great stories. The Potter books are fine but not nearly as good - they're quite stale and old-fashioned, really, while the Lemony Snickets are much more witty and inventive.

And this new series captures the spirit of the books so much better than the Jim Carrey film of a few years ago. (I actually quite liked the film but it just missed out most of what makes the books so great.)

Highly recommended. Especially for kids.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Riggers on 23 January, 2017, 12:09:32 pm
Ah! Well, last evening as well, we started to watch the American version of House of Cards (episodes 1-3) on NetFlix. Very well done I thought, though (increasingly) trying to follow 'who's who' in a drama with increasing numbers of characters, is challenging for me. Quite a few more episodes to get through as well!!

Will have to have a look at the A.S.O.U. Events another time. The film was received well, wasn't it?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Dibdib on 23 January, 2017, 01:07:57 pm
I've just finished binging the leftpondian House Of Cards.

Series 1 and 2 were excellent, I thought; 3 and 4 slightly less so.

It usually takes me about ten minutes into a watching session to get over Spacey's accent.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 23 January, 2017, 07:12:03 pm
Hmm, my newspaper had the Books of wossisname but I see an electronic version doesn't.

Stand down.

Bloke last night's books were Robert Harris; Gerald's doing Dan Brown.  Next week's mag says "Asterix, the Periodic Table, the novels of Nick Hornby, Richard Feynman and Stan Laurel" so not next week either.

Ah, I'm probably mixing my authors. So many tenterhooks on, I was.

Gerald's not on thus week either because of some Eurovision wank >:(
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 24 January, 2017, 11:18:06 am
Will have to have a look at the A.S.O.U. Events another time. The film was received well, wasn't it?

I can't remember how well it was received generally but it got a mixed reception from fans of the books. Judged on its own merits, it was pretty good. Jim Carrey made a decent Count Olaf - a restrained performance by his standards, although the character allowed him some scope for doing his usual Jim Carrey thing. The kids were very good as well. The main problem was that it had to cram the content of the first three books into a single feature-length movie, so a lot of what was great about the books was simply discarded, which definitely irked the purists. And it ended up being much more of an outright comedy than the books. I liked it though. I thought it was funny.

I've only seen a few episodes of the TV series so far but it's clear that the more expansive format allows them to follow the meandering narrative style of the books more faithfully. My only concern is that it might end up feeling too expansive - the plot of each book is essentially the same, and the repetition and running jokes work really well in book form, but might start to wear a bit thin on screen.

It also strikes me that the magical realist style does slightly blunt some of the darker elements - Count Olaf is essentially reduced to a pantomime villain and perhaps not really menacing enough, certainly not as menacing as he comes across in the books. So when he hits Klaus across the face, it does seem slightly out of character. Which it shouldn't. But then I guess you have to be very careful when depicting violence towards children on screen. I do like the fact that they've got Doogie Howser to play the part though.

They should have got David Lynch to direct it. Although maybe then it wouldn't have been suitable for children...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 24 January, 2017, 12:28:09 pm
I enjoyed Taboo last week, will be watching 2nd episode tonight.
Hoh yessssss! [or rather we caught up with Shelock last night, but will catch-up with TabooEp2 soon ...]

I do hope they turn Tom Hardy*'s mike up in future episodes, he's too good to miss any dialogue :)

Tom Hardy has pretty much made Brooding & Menacing his own.  I haven't checked my dictionary but it may even say, "See: Tom Hardy" for those two entries.
More of the same this week. Plus some actual ... "Taboo" activity. Finally!

It's all kicking off nicely.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 26 January, 2017, 12:48:54 pm
New series of Fortitude starts tonight. Yay!

Shame it won't have Stanley Tucci in it though. Or Michael Gambon.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: IanDG on 03 February, 2017, 01:34:50 pm
Battle Mountain - nGraeme Obree's Story is showing on BBC2 Scotland next Tuesday (07/02)

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b08c70vf
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 03 February, 2017, 03:19:30 pm
Battle Mountain - nGraeme Obree's Story is showing on BBC2 Scotland next Tuesday (07/02)

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b08c70vf
Please tell me there is loads of cool stuff on BBC2 that you DONT get in Scotland!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 03 February, 2017, 05:05:49 pm
Prolly available on iPlayer but, the other night was Cheetahs- Growing Up Fast.

Some here may know I have a soft spot for Cheetah. This was ace throughout and sad in places and I was damn jealous of the cameraman.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 03 February, 2017, 09:33:37 pm
Prolly available on iPlayer but, the other night was Cheetahs- Growing Up Fast.

Some here may know I have a soft spot for Cheetah. This was ace throughout and sad in places and I was damn jealous of the cameraman.
Did they show much of Tarzan?  ;)


BBC4 has a load of stuff on tonight, something about EMI and then something about prog rock. Just now I'm watching one hit wonders.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 06 February, 2017, 04:40:02 pm
Prolly available on iPlayer but, the other night was Cheetahs- Growing Up Fast.

Some here may know I have a soft spot for Cheetah. This was ace throughout and sad in places and I was damn jealous of the cameraman.
Did they show much of Tarzan?  ;)


BBC4 has a load of stuff on tonight, something about EMI and then something about prog rock. Just now I'm watching one hit wonders.

Is that your coat over there?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: geraldc on 06 February, 2017, 04:49:47 pm
I'm on again on Friday. Mastermind Semi 8pm BBC 2
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Basil on 06 February, 2017, 05:24:48 pm
No spoilers please.  I won't be able to watch it until late Friday or Saturday.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 10 February, 2017, 07:14:35 pm
Potentially Arena: Alone with Chrissie Hynde on BBC 4 at 2100.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 12 February, 2017, 09:27:54 pm
Wagner's Ring Cycle on BBC Four.

Gold? What Gold? Oh, that Gold! 2.5 hours dedicated to paying the builders.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob W on 12 February, 2017, 11:01:50 pm
Was it a decent production? The info on iPlayer was very sparse.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 13 February, 2017, 08:20:47 am
Was it a decent production? The info on iPlayer was very sparse.

From the ten seconds I saw while channel-hopping, "sparse" is an excellent summary of the production too.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 13 February, 2017, 01:06:37 pm
On Fox, but also available on Amazon Prime, Legion.

Another Marvel offering, but this time much better. Imagine the first episode of Heroes, remade with David Lynch directing and you are getting close. Hopefully the rest of the series is as good (the last bit was a little Deadpool, with the guy just waving his hand to chuck people about).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 13 February, 2017, 01:45:07 pm
Imagine the first episode of Heroes, remade with David Lynch directing

You've sold it to me. First series of Heroes was great, but it went downhill very rapidly after that.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 27 February, 2017, 11:00:08 pm
This Unit has just watched S03E01 of "Broadchurch", which looks like it might develop nicely.  Anything with Olivia Colman in it has to be watched anyway.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 28 February, 2017, 01:58:55 pm
This Unit has just watched S03E01 of "Broadchurch", which looks like it might develop nicely.  Anything with Olivia Colman in it has to be watched anyway.

She is totally wonderful at "everywoman" in the same way Kevin Spacey and Tom Hanks play "everyman".  I can breathe a sigh of relief and relax, knowing it's in safe hands.

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 02 March, 2017, 02:28:36 pm
Enjoyed S3Ep1. Never watched series 1 or2. Not sure why, except for an inherent pessimism about ITV dramas.

There were a few references to S1 & 2 plotlines, but we coped - I hope that situation continues.


[I did think it was a little ... fortuitous when they found the bits of evidence while briefly searching, just on a hunch, a billion acres of mansion house grounds. But I don't watch these things for perfect plot probabilities, so that's fine!]
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 02 March, 2017, 02:34:25 pm
Annoyed that I missed the first two episodes of the new series of Inside No.9 but I saw the thirdsecond episode this week.

Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton are sick fucks. But also geniuses. Totally brilliant. Will have to catch up with the first two eps on iplayer.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Redlight on 02 March, 2017, 04:37:57 pm
Potentially Arena: Alone with Chrissie Hynde on BBC 4 at 2100.

Thought I'd catch up with that on i-player. Gave up after 20 minutes. She is so dull.  Huge disappointment.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 02 March, 2017, 10:45:07 pm
Prime Suspect 1973.

Rover P6's, Austin 1100, Vauxhall Viva etc.

Lex Shrapnel. What a fucking ace moniker :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 03 March, 2017, 07:57:01 pm
Prime Suspect 1973

Period detail nostalgia aside, did you think it was any good?

I didn't.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 03 March, 2017, 07:59:07 pm
Potentially Arena: Alone with Chrissie Hynde on BBC 4 at 2100.

Thought I'd catch up with that on i-player. Gave up after 20 minutes. She is so dull.  Huge disappointment.

Yes, it was a bit boring wasn't it?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 04 March, 2017, 11:01:59 pm
Prime Suspect 1973

Period detail nostalgia aside, did you think it was any good?

I didn't.

I have seen worse. I am going to reserve judgement for now.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 05 March, 2017, 08:42:07 pm
Prime Suspect 1973

Period detail nostalgia aside, did you think it was any good?

I didn't.

I'm sort of liking it but don't like the message that having Cracker's DS Penhaligon playing Jane Tennison's Mum is sending me, which is that I am Old.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 March, 2017, 09:37:16 am
'Cleverman' on Netflix.
The description makes it sound crap. Actually this is surprisingly good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 06 March, 2017, 10:19:58 am
Prime Suspect 1973

Period detail nostalgia aside, did you think it was any good?

I didn't.

I'm sort of liking it but don't like the message that having Cracker's DS Penhaligon playing Jane Tennison's Mum is sending me, which is that I am Old.

I was being polite. I actually thought it was terrible. The acting was OK but I suspect the script was written by a computer. Probably a ZX Spectrum.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 10 March, 2017, 11:26:03 pm
Prime Suspect 1973.

Rover P6's, Austin 1100, Vauxhall Viva etc.

Lex Shrapnel. What a fucking ace moniker :thumbsup:

I just watched ep. 2.  Would the uniformed rozzers really be using a 1966 Rover in 1973?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 11 March, 2017, 12:20:28 pm
Not if it had been in continuous service. They used to get rid at 70k miles.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 11 March, 2017, 01:25:13 pm
I just watched ep. 2.  Would the uniformed rozzers really be using a 1966 Rover in 1973?

For me the first episode was accompanied by a commentary from my wife enumerating the anachronisms, eg "But Maida Vale wasn't posh in 1973!"

I didn't watch the second episode.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: spindrift on 11 March, 2017, 10:02:59 pm
Geri Ginger Spice off the Spice Girls, on her friendship with George Michael:

Quote
"When we met I knew I wasn't his type of girl".

You know what she was trying to say, bless her heart.

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: TheLurker on 12 March, 2017, 09:37:33 am
Prime Suspect 1973.

Rover P6's, Austin 1100, Vauxhall Viva etc.

Lex Shrapnel. What a fucking ace moniker :thumbsup:

I just watched ep. 2.  Would the uniformed rozzers really be using a 1966 Rover in 1973?
I know it jars a bit when they get these things "wrong" but...

You are watching an fictive portrayal of imaginary events, i.e. an grate big fat lie, and in order to make this lie more believable an certane amount of smoke, not to say mirrors, must be employed.  However the purveyors of this lie not having an unlimited amount of money for smoke, mirrors or other devices of mass distraction expect you, a willing participant in the lie, to focus not on the set dressing but on the lie itself AKA "the story". 

Besides for stuff set in the 1970s you've got the almost insuperable problem that any* motor vehicle built in the 1970s is now a smear metal oxides in the mud of a scrapyard somewhere so you're going to have to use whatever you can get your hands on that's not completely anachronistic.

*May contain traces of exaggeration.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 12 March, 2017, 09:58:48 am
I know it jars a bit when they get these things "wrong" but...

You are watching an fictive portrayal of imaginary events, i.e. an grate big fat lie, and in order to make this lie more believable an certane amount of smoke, not to say mirrors, must be employed.  However the purveyors of this lie not having an unlimited amount of money for smoke, mirrors or other devices of mass distraction expect you, a willing participant in the lie, to focus not on the set dressing but on the lie itself AKA "the story". 

Besides for stuff set in the 1970s you've got the almost insuperable problem that any* motor vehicle built in the 1970s is now a smear metal oxides in the mud of a scrapyard somewhere so you're going to have to use whatever you can get your hands on that's not completely anachronistic.

*May contain traces of exaggeration.

 :hand:
You are so very wrong.

If they're going to make this stuff, they should chuffing well get it right.

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarggh!  >:(

I shall be writing to my MP ...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: TheLurker on 12 March, 2017, 10:46:53 am
Calm down dear, it's only a commercial^wpolice procedural. :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 12 March, 2017, 01:38:21 pm
I was actually looking for post-1973 vehicular crimes, like the VW Polo in "All You Need Is Cash", when I noticed the plate on the Rover.  How hard would it have been to make up some false plates for the filming?  Tch!

Although I'd still have noticed it was a pre-1970 facelift car because radiator grille ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 12 March, 2017, 02:00:36 pm
I was actually looking for post-1973 vehicular crimes,

Dare I ask ...  Why??
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 12 March, 2017, 07:23:32 pm
I was actually looking for post-1973 vehicular crimes,

Dare I ask ...  Why??

To have something to gripe about in here, obv.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 15 March, 2017, 09:30:47 pm
new series of Inside No.9...
Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton are sick fucks. But also geniuses. Totally brilliant. Will have to catch up with the first two eps on iplayer.

Caught up with the latest episode this evening. Superb.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 20 March, 2017, 01:29:33 pm
I was actually looking for post-1973 vehicular crimes,

Dare I ask ...  Why??

To have something to gripe about in here, obv.

Typically the main failing of cars in period films is that they are all concourse condition, having been sourced from car enthusiasts and motor museums.

My memory of cars in the early '70s was "Harvest Gold"*,  rust and wire coat-hanger aerials.

*Harvest Gold was a sort of summation of the 1970s in just one colour, being a blend of brown, orange and cream (the constituent colours of all young boys' stripey tank-tops).

Beige is my main memory of the '70s.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: caerau on 20 March, 2017, 06:27:33 pm
Beige, flares and too much hair.  Though some of that appears to be back in vogue currently.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 21 March, 2017, 01:20:20 am
Triumph Dollop'o'shites also came in a seizure inducing 'Pageant Mid Blue'. Usually with brown lace door bottoms. Fuckin' 'orrible!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 21 March, 2017, 12:52:07 pm
I think ours was green.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 21 March, 2017, 01:19:56 pm
A chum at skool had a green one, which underwent a radical shortening exercise on the day of our final A-level exams in the form of a head-on with a Transit.  Surprisingly, none of the unbelted occupants was killed utterly to DETH.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 21 March, 2017, 02:10:28 pm
Our first family car was a bright red Triumph Toledo - K-reg, which the internet tells me means it was new in 1971. My abiding memory of that car is my legs being welded to the black plastic seats when making the schoolboy error of wearing shorts on a hot day.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: caerau on 21 March, 2017, 05:08:29 pm
Pfft, you think you had problems.  My Dad had a Simca  :sick:


(ah the fond memories of trying to sit on its plastic seats in shorts when it had been sat in the sun all day  :jurek: 
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 21 March, 2017, 08:09:05 pm
Crash and Burn on iPlayer, a documentary about the turbulent career of Irish playboy racing driver Tommy Byrne.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 22 March, 2017, 01:37:52 pm
I was actually looking for post-1973 vehicular crimes,

Dare I ask ...  Why??

I read it as looking for such vehicular crimes as were later represented by the Morris marina or Austin Alegro......
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 22 March, 2017, 02:11:40 pm
Last episode of the current series of Inside No.9 last night was an absolute corker - not least because Peter Kay got brutally murdered in the opening minute.

Also starred Felicity Kendal and Fiona Shaw, both brilliant. Many laughs.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 24 March, 2017, 11:54:21 am
I was actually looking for post-1973 vehicular crimes,

Dare I ask ...  Why??

I read it as looking for such vehicular crimes as were later represented by the Morris marina or Austin Alegro......

I remember the tag-line for the Morris Ital (basically the Marina completely restyled by the ITAL design studios to look exactly like the Marina it replaced) was "More Espresso than Allegro", which was by far the best thing about it.

Which excited young boy could fail to be disheartened by the new Morris speeding through the showroom doors to the shouts of, "It's a f***ing Marina!" *

I once owned a Hillman (Rebadged Talbot) Avenger Estate.  The sound of it rusting would keep me awake at night.

EDIT.  Found this.... it's actually worse than I remember... THE NEW ITAL (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wkoEQeJu7x8)

Oh shit....it gets worse.. British Leyland (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xm1aJx45F6k)  At the end it's like he's answering the question, "What are the worst cars you can name in 5 seconds?"
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 24 March, 2017, 12:33:15 pm
The cars were crap but the advert was a corker (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=265yh7UmF0w)...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: TheLurker on 31 March, 2017, 06:38:25 am
I remember the tag-line for the Morris Ital (basically the Marina completely restyled by the ITAL design studios to look exactly like the Marina it replaced) was "More Espresso than Allegro", which was by far the best thing about it.
My second car was an Ital.  Looked nothing like the Marina, it had a much fatter arse. :)

Awful, awful, _awful_ car.  All the road holding and cornering ability of an unballasted oil tanker in a gale and with a fuel consumption to match.  At 60mph you could see the fuel gauge needle dropping like a stone and despite the fact it had a 1700cc engine you really, really didn't want to try driving it any faster.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 31 March, 2017, 08:46:20 am
The gear box was interesting as well. A massively long gear stick that your waggled about with the hope that you could find the correct gear in there somewhere.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 04 April, 2017, 09:49:54 am
I missed that there was a new series of Robot Wars until a few days ago, dammit. Luckily it's all available on iPlayer. I do like Robot Wars. It's very silly, and the camera seems to spend too long focused on the crowd rather than the action (although it's much better than the last series in that respect) but sometimes it is genuinely thrilling. This week featured a grudge match between the champions of the last series, Apollo, and the runner-up, Carbide. Both robots have been upgraded since the last series and it made for some spectacular action. Also: Angela Scanlon. Sigh.

Also enjoyed the first episode of the new adaptation of Decline & Fall on Friday. Some reviews have been a bit sniffy about it, but it's so long since I read the book that I don't really have any preconceptions. And I laughed a lot. I now want to read the book again.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 07 April, 2017, 08:47:02 pm
Prime Suspect 1973

Period detail nostalgia aside, did you think it was any good?

I didn't.

I'm sort of liking it but don't like the message that having Cracker's DS Penhaligon playing Jane Tennison's Mum is sending me, which is that I am Old.

Well, that went off at right-angles to the book in the final episode, such as having someone completely different wot done the murderin' and having Kath return as a live D/C instead of a dead lesbian ???
Title: Re: Television tonight, what's worth watching
Post by: TheLurker on 08 April, 2017, 09:02:27 pm
Dunno when, but soon(ish).  Another chance to have your assiduously repressed memories of bri-nylon shirts with massive collars brutally dragged into your conscious mind.  Yes,  "Life on Mars" is being broadcast again.  Freeview 20 (Drama).

Advertised in a trailer for new season's programmes a few days ago.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 10 April, 2017, 01:19:04 pm
Prime Suspect 1973

Period detail nostalgia aside, did you think it was any good?

I didn't.

I'm sort of liking it but don't like the message that having Cracker's DS Penhaligon playing Jane Tennison's Mum is sending me, which is that I am Old.

Well, that went off at right-angles to the book in the final episode, such as having someone completely different wot done the murderin' and having Kath return as a live D/C instead of a dead lesbian ???

Its all a lesson in concentrating on the job in hand innit?

If the Guv'nor had concentrated on doin a proper murder investigation in the first place, he would have got the result he wanted without the minor inconvinience of getting Blowed Up Sir!

Or something like that.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 10 April, 2017, 04:35:45 pm
Must be said that the book of Prime Suspect is one of the dullest I've ever had the misfortune to read.  Zero suspense, zero plot twists, zero imagination.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 10 April, 2017, 04:50:39 pm
Also enjoyed the first episode of the new adaptation of Decline & Fall on Friday. Some reviews have been a bit sniffy about it, but it's so long since I read the book that I don't really have any preconceptions. And I laughed a lot. I now want to read the book again.

Very amusing.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Karla on 10 April, 2017, 05:12:37 pm
The UC final.  Please, please let Monkman lose.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 10 April, 2017, 05:54:31 pm
The UC final.  Please, please let Monkman lose.

Too Canadian for your tastes?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 10 April, 2017, 07:23:00 pm
Here, Pharti, you'll enjoy this:
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2017/apr/09/eric-monkman-monkmania-takes-twitter-by-storm-ahead-of-university-challenge-final
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 10 April, 2017, 10:00:26 pm
The UC final.  Please, please let Monkman lose.

IS IT JUST ME, OR DOES WOLFSON MONKMAN SPEAK IN CAPITAL LETTERS?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Karla on 11 April, 2017, 09:56:51 am
The UC final.  Please, please let Monkman lose.

IS IT JUST ME, OR DOES WOLFSON MONKMAN SPEAK IN CAPITAL LETTERS?
AND DOES HIS VOICE ALWAYS GO UP AT THE END OF EVERY SENTENCE??
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 11 April, 2017, 09:58:50 am
Not so much an interrogative inflection as an incredulous accusation - like he wants to add the words "ARE YOU MAD?" after every answer.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Karla on 11 April, 2017, 10:37:06 am
The UC final.  Please, please let Monkman lose.

Too Canadian for your tastes?

Remember Emmanuel Guttenplan (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZsnwwcc7sw)?  He had an endearing geek chic that Monkman could never pull off. 

The whole final annoyed me tbh.  Two all-male Oxbridge teams, of which only 1.25 looked like they had either any style or any chance of getting laid.  Cosgrove was the 0.25 there, and he was the only one on the Wolfson team who could carry the torch for British manhood, because Chaudhri, the other home student on his team, looked and sounded like he'd had his charisma surgically removed at birth.  Okay, I recognised a bit of myself in him.  Well I wouldn't want to be on a team - or in a world - with four of myself.  Ewww.

Also, Wolfson beat SOAS (who are always, by definition, cool) and Emmanuel (who can hold their heads high because they all have lives but not dandruff, which is more than Wolfson can say), so I'm biased against them by now.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 11 April, 2017, 10:50:22 am
Remember Emmanuel Guttenplan (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZsnwwcc7sw)?  He had an endearing geek chic that Monkman could never pull off.

Yes, he was good. Neither were as good as Corpus Christi Trimble though.

Quote
Two all-male Oxbridge teams

Purely a coincidence, surely?  ;)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: yoav on 11 April, 2017, 10:52:50 am
It's about time UC stopped giving every oxbridge college a separate entry.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 11 April, 2017, 10:58:21 am
Remember Emmanuel Guttenplan (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZsnwwcc7sw)?
I loved Guttenplan's "it wasn't a guess" retort to Paxo...

(I think I got only two questions right last night that none of the contestants did - the Dr Seuss one, which was a little bit of guesswork, and the SNOB one.)  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 11 April, 2017, 06:25:43 pm
WOLFSON MONKMAN didn't help matters by a shedload of incorrect interruptions.  I larrffed.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob W on 11 April, 2017, 07:00:51 pm
The UC final.  Please, please let Monkman lose.

Too Canadian for your tastes?

Remember Emmanuel Guttenplan (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZsnwwcc7sw)?  He had an endearing geek chic that Monkman could never pull off. 

(Tenuous claim to fame alert:) Do I ever; he beat us in the semi-finals that series. Both he and Jenny Harris were terrifying quizzers, though gauche as all fuck and utterly without social skills.</notbitter> He does seem to have mellowed slightly these days (fuck, is it really the best part of a decade now!?)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pumpkin on 11 April, 2017, 09:28:13 pm
Car Share. The section with the cyclist is inspired - we've all been there - the epilogue is hilarious. Also the Shaun Ryder Rehab Centre :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 11 April, 2017, 10:00:43 pm
(A week) tonight - new series of Veep on Sky Atlantic.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Basil on 11 April, 2017, 11:18:57 pm
Car Share. The section with the cyclist is inspired - we've all been there - the epilogue is hilarious. Also the Shaun Ryder Rehab Centre :thumbsup:
That cyclist looked like about 300 cyclists I know, and I only know 301.  Yes including the females.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 12 April, 2017, 09:26:07 am
It's about time UC stopped giving every oxbridge college a separate entry.

Yes how do they get away with that? Other universities are collegiate eg York and Durham and they don't get to enter one team per college.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Karla on 12 April, 2017, 09:45:43 am
The UC final.  Please, please let Monkman lose.

Too Canadian for your tastes?

Remember Emmanuel Guttenplan (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZsnwwcc7sw)?  He had an endearing geek chic that Monkman could never pull off. 

(Tenuous claim to fame alert:) Do I ever; he beat us in the semi-finals that series. Both he and Jenny Harris were terrifying quizzers, though gauche as all fuck and utterly without social skills.</notbitter> He does seem to have mellowed slightly these days (fuck, is it really the best part of a decade now!?)

For some reason, Manchester vs Emmanuel 2010 is evading me on Youtube.

When I was on for York we got beaten by UCL, who got as far as the semis - despite being a bunch of smugly annoying nerds who spent waaaaay too long over their questions (grumble grumble).  Then a few years later, I was associated with KCL through work, and switched on one night to see the Kings team beaten by the exact same score we'd lost by.    I then switched over to Only Connect, only to see Karran, the UCL captain who'd beaten us, winning.  It was all too much - I switched off and went to bed.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 12 April, 2017, 10:06:01 am
One of the major disappointments in my life is that my university career coincided with the gap between the old version finishing and the new version starting.

But it's probably for the best.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pumpkin on 12 April, 2017, 10:09:27 am
It's about time UC stopped giving every oxbridge college a separate entry.

Yes how do they get away with that? Other universities are collegiate eg York and Durham and they don't get to enter one team per college.

It's Oxbridge and that's it really. different rules apply to them
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob W on 12 April, 2017, 10:38:43 am
For some reason, Manchester vs Emmanuel 2010 is evading me on Youtube.

Feast your eyes: https://youtu.be/wW5JBWflH3w

(I'd forgotten quite how horrendous that match was; forever fractions of a second behind Guttenplan... At least we pulled back from a disastrous first half to a reasonable score by the end.)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 12 April, 2017, 10:59:04 am
It's about time UC stopped giving every oxbridge college a separate entry.

Yes how do they get away with that? Other universities are collegiate eg York and Durham and they don't get to enter one team per college.

It's Oxbridge and that's it really. different rules apply to them

Is having multiple teams on UC some sort of compensation for a degree from Oxbridge no longer being a guarantee of a job running a fairly large portion of the Empire?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 12 April, 2017, 06:51:03 pm
A more prosaic explanation is that Oxbridge colleges still do teaching at college level.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 13 April, 2017, 12:11:36 pm
... and they know a helluva lot more useless stuffs.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 13 April, 2017, 07:59:50 pm
Here, Pharti, you'll enjoy this:
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2017/apr/09/eric-monkman-monkmania-takes-twitter-by-storm-ahead-of-university-challenge-final

I missed all this on the telly-box, but luckily twitter is full of stuff like this:

https://twitter.com/kejohnstonx/status/851517897881026561
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 18 April, 2017, 09:18:01 pm
I know it was last night but, Broadchurch.
Olivia Colman's rage face.
'Kin 'ell.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 19 April, 2017, 11:24:14 am
Every face Olivia Colman made, come to that.  She's just (hunts for suitable adjective but fails to find one).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 28 April, 2017, 02:10:46 pm
Downloadable any night-Murder in Successville

DI Sleet is the head of CID in Successville, a town populated by celbrities who fulfill a wide range of roles (The last one I watche, Paloma Faith worked in a bar frequented by ladies of negotiable affection, Jamie Oliver and Jonathan Ross were members of an exclusive Gentlemans Club.

Anyhoo, Sleet gets given a new sidekick each episode (Martin Kemp, Richard Osman etc.) as new recruits and the fun starts there. It follows a plot line but seems to be mainly improv. Makes me and Mrs F laugh out loud.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 28 April, 2017, 03:04:51 pm
Caught some of Bigheads last weekend. Like a cross between It's A Knockout and Stars In Their Eyes. My son and I found it hilariously funny... for about five minutes. Unfortunately, it's a pretty one-dimensional gag and once you've seen it, you've seen it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 03 May, 2017, 01:04:43 am
I have not long ago learned that Amazon Prime are doing a televisual version of Neil Gaiman's "American Gods" - first episode released into the wild on May 1st.  Miss von Brandenburg says there's loadsa killin's, and very graphic ones at that.  Apparently it's to be spread over three seasons.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 03 May, 2017, 03:57:07 pm
Every face Olivia Colman made, come to that.  She's just (hunts for suitable adjective but fails to find one).

She is indeed. The first thing I saw her in was Green Wing. She was superb. As were, I have to say, all of the cast.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 05 May, 2017, 10:10:36 am
A more prosaic explanation is that Oxbridge colleges still do some teaching at college level.
FTFY

To my mind, it's perfectly fair for each Oxbridge college to have its own team - they still have to qualify for the main draw, and the pool of talent is obviously that much smaller when comparing say, (my alma mater) Sidney Sussex's 400 students with the University of Manchester's 40,000.  I'm not sure I agree with postgraduate students competing, though.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 05 May, 2017, 07:02:45 pm
Not to mention that time a few years ago when the Open University fielded a team made up of former winners of Brain Of BRITAIN and similar.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 06 May, 2017, 12:32:27 pm
Television tonight, whats worth watching?

Last night's HIGNFY - if you like recumbent magazines, that is.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 06 May, 2017, 12:37:40 pm
Television tonight, whats worth watching?

Last night's HIGNFY - if you like recumbent magazines, that is.

Tenuous Claim To Fame #6735; I used to be editor of its predecessor and have had articles in the last two issues.  I ate'nt seen it yet (waiting for the 12" extended remix version) so cannot tell you whether my prose has been rendered furtherly DETHless by being quoted on National Television.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 06 May, 2017, 02:02:53 pm
Tenuous Claim To Fame #6735; I used to be editor of its predecessor and have had articles in the last two issues.  I ate'nt seen it yet (waiting for the 12" extended remix version) so cannot tell you whether my prose has been rendered furtherly DETHless by being quoted on National Television.

I'll be straight with you, they aren't kind to recumbent cyclists.

But then nor are most normal cyclists, so I expect you're used to it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 06 May, 2017, 07:16:37 pm
New series of Welsh Scandi noir wannabe Hinterland on BBC4 starts tonight.
Pingu will be delighted ::-)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pumpkin on 08 May, 2017, 01:42:08 pm
Now on IPlayer - Classic Albums. Carly Simons No Secrets (You're So Vain was the hit). Some great playing and engineering from a time when those skills counted.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 08 May, 2017, 05:42:34 pm
Now on IPlayer - Classic Albums. Carly Simons No Secrets (You're So Vain was the hit). Some great playing and engineering from a time when those skills counted.

I watched that, it was really good. I love it when they give you an incite into the production. I love 70s production as well, a much better sound than a lot of modern stuff, and as for 80s production  :sick:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 08 May, 2017, 05:43:01 pm
Tonight is episode 2 of American Gods. I am quite excited.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 11 May, 2017, 07:30:58 am
Forgot it was King Charles III on telly last night. Tried and failed to get tickets to see it in the West End last year. Was looking forward to the chance to see it on telly, will have to iplayer it.

Anyone see it?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ham on 11 May, 2017, 08:44:32 am
Yes, quite enjoyed it. Was amused by the iambic pentameter, and the (assumed deliberate) shaping from Shakespeare. Diana as Lady Macbeth was particularly amusing. Inspiration taken from pretty much all the historics, from Julius Caesar through to Lear, and some of the comedies.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Asterix, the former Gaul. on 11 May, 2017, 11:36:58 am
Quote
Diana as Lady Macbeth
:o
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ham on 11 May, 2017, 11:51:27 am
OK, with a bit of Banquo thrown in  ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ham on 11 May, 2017, 12:05:07 pm
To be fair, Kate shared the Lady Macbeth role, but she had a bit more Goneril thrown in, and she wasn't a ghost.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 11 May, 2017, 02:04:22 pm
Sounds good. Will definitely catch up with that.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 12 May, 2017, 12:31:52 am
Gold are rerunning The Fast Show. Bloody genius!

Python for the 90s or its own special brand?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 12 May, 2017, 12:47:50 am
Gold are rerunning The Fast Show. Bloody genius!

ITYM.. Brilliant!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 15 May, 2017, 03:49:50 pm
Yes, quite enjoyed it. Was amused by the iambic pentameter, and the (assumed deliberate) shaping from Shakespeare. Diana as Lady Macbeth was particularly amusing. Inspiration taken from pretty much all the historics, from Julius Caesar through to Lear, and some of the comedies.

Watched it last night. Excellent. You're right, it is very Shakespearean. Superb performance from Tim Pigott-Smith.

It does show signs of having been cut for TV, especially in the ending, which felt a bit rushed. Really sorry I missed it in the West End.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 16 May, 2017, 12:18:27 pm
Car Share. The section with the cyclist is inspired - we've all been there - the epilogue is hilarious. Also the Shaun Ryder Rehab Centre :thumbsup:

I have only just started watching Car Share on catchup. Haven't seen that episode yet but last night watched the one where they bunk off for a day to a safari park. Mrs Pcolbeck couldn't breath for laughing.
All the ones I have seen so far are good. So well observed and make you smile a lot but not laugh out loud. The last five minutes of the safari park episode though was side split-tingly funny.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 16 May, 2017, 10:02:35 pm
Bit late to the party but 'Little Boy Blue' is a powerful four parter about the murder of Rhys Jones in Liverpool around 10 years ago. If you missed it ITV Player should have all four episodes on demand. Recommended.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 19 May, 2017, 12:39:15 am
Three Girls.  :'(

Fuck! That was tough to watch.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: CrinklyLion on 19 May, 2017, 07:09:08 am
Tough, but worth it.

It has got some incredible reviews.  I'd suggest perhaps reading the comments on many of them with caution tho.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 30 May, 2017, 04:46:07 pm
We've been watching a fascinating thing on C4 - "The Trial: A Murder In The Family" - a fictional court case tried by real barristers with a real jury. Not the kind of thing I'd normally watch but it was strangely gripping, and horribly reminiscent of my own experience of serving on a jury. Well worth catching up with if you missed it:
http://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-trial-a-murder-in-the-family/episode-guide/

After the trial was over, they revealed what had actually happened - my own verdict was the correct one, of course.  :smug:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 22 June, 2017, 08:23:11 pm
Ian Hislop is doing a thing tonight about immigration in Victorian times, BBC2, 2100.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bobb on 24 June, 2017, 10:52:09 am
Ian Hislop is doing a thing tonight about immigration in Victorian times, BBC2, 2100.

I just iPlayered that. What a brilliant documentary...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 24 June, 2017, 03:41:51 pm
And what a festering sore Katie Hopkins is.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 27 June, 2017, 03:34:00 pm
We're catching up on The Night Of at the moment. It's very good, but almost unbearably tense. I still haven't made up my mind if he did it or not, and I suspect it's not going to get much clearer in the remaining episodes...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 28 June, 2017, 01:04:40 pm
We're catching up on The Night Of at the moment. It's very good, but almost unbearably tense. I still haven't made up my mind if he did it or not, and I suspect it's not going to get much clearer in the remaining episodes...

OK, well it did kind of get clearer...

As an exposition of the complexities and ambiguities of the criminal justice system, and a philosophical treatise on notions of guilt and innocence, it's well worth watching. I didn't see the original British series on which it is based - Criminal Justice - but I imagine it's very different, given the differences in the way American courts work, and conditions in American prisons.

Definitely not recommended for people who like 'happily ever after' endings.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Basil on 09 July, 2017, 09:32:28 pm
Well, you've just missed it, but Wolf Works on BBC 4 tonight was just stunning.  If you're not sure if you like modern dance or ballet, try this.  I hope it will be available on iPlayer soon.
The ballet is in three acts based on the works and life of Virginia Woolf.  The first is one of the most poignant things I have ever seen as Woolf and her younger selves inside work together.  Grit in my eye.
The second act, based on her novel Orlando, a gender and time bending romp, is so busy it's hard to keep up with what is going on in all parts of the stage at once.  Sometimes you forget whether a particular performer is male or female, and then you realise that Hey, that's not important right now.  The finale to this act is just stupendous.
The third act, Tuesday, deals with her life, breakdowns and eventual suicide, interwoven with another of her works (I have to admit that I'm not sure which).  Again, stunning, busy and modern.  Men lifting men, women lifting women.  This is what we want.  No boundaries.

Very very highly recommend.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 06 September, 2017, 06:08:10 pm
Mitchell & Webb fans may be interested to know their new series: Back, starts tonight on C4.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 21 September, 2017, 11:30:42 am
The other night saw Electric Dreams on Channel 4, the first of 10 stand alone adaptations of Phillip K Dick stories. Episode one was The Hood Maker, a story about a future society where telepaths (teeps) seem to be at odds with the world?

Anyhow, ep1 stars features Richard Madden (Rodd "The King in the North" Stark) and Holliday Grainger (Robin Ellacott- the secretary come trainee private dick in Strike) and I enjoyed it. Looking at the IMDb listings, some big names will feature in future episodes.

Eletric Dreams IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt5711280/?ref_=tt_ov_inf)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 22 September, 2017, 10:17:05 am
I thought that was pretty good (although I have watched Ms Grainger far too recently in her other role!).

I've seen much much worse sci-fi on telly, so I'm pretty optimistic about the rest of the series.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 September, 2017, 11:06:21 am
Watched Season 2 of The Expanse with my son. Since until a week ago he lived in Edinburgh, this was a rare indulgence. It didn't disappoint. Nobody says "Go fuck yourself" like Shohreh Aghdashloo
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 30 September, 2017, 08:25:17 pm
Continued Monday I think, but we’ve been away and just watched the first episode of a programme on BBC4 - The Vietnam War. Superb.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 30 September, 2017, 08:38:41 pm
On i-Player, but very good - Hypernormalisation.  Scary stuff mind.  Donald Trump's in it.  So is Patti Smith.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 02 October, 2017, 07:26:26 am
Watched Season 2 of The Expanse with my son. Since until a week ago he lived in Edinburgh, this was a rare indulgence. It didn't disappoint. Nobody says "Go fuck yourself" like Shohreh Aghdashloo

Love that series. Books are worth reading too.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 02 October, 2017, 07:28:49 am
Spent most of the Sunday with the sniffles and binge-watched Line of Duty Season 4.
Cringed when Hastings said "Darling" and knew it was a set up for later, but otherwise enjoyed it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: David Martin on 15 October, 2017, 10:14:35 pm
Electric Dreams has been good. A series of Philip K Dick short stories that are somewhat pushing the thinking about conciousness and reality. Enjoyed tonights.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 19 October, 2017, 04:51:18 pm
Been binge watching Rellik on iPlayer while Daniel has been feeding and sleeping (I'm on Shared Parental Leave atm).  I can see it being quite confusing if you watched it as broadcast, with a week between episodes, but it's great watched as-one.  It's a really interesting concept - the reverse chronological narrative is surprisingly suspenseful.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Auntie Helen on 19 October, 2017, 05:22:11 pm
I gave up halfway through the second episode, it irritated me too much.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 21 October, 2017, 08:14:18 am
I gave up halfway through the second episode, it irritated me too much.
Your loss...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Karla on 23 October, 2017, 12:38:54 am
So, is anyone watching Game of Attempting to Blow Up Thrones?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 23 October, 2017, 01:28:01 pm
We've just this weekend finished the first series of David Fincher's Mindhunter on Netflix. Very good.

Avoids the usual torture porn aspect of many serial killer dramas, instead it's mostly talking - and all the better for it. Pretty much all the men in it are thoroughly appalling, even the good guys.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 23 October, 2017, 11:15:32 pm
We've just this weekend finished the first series of David Fincher's Mindhunter on Netflix. Very good.

Avoids the usual torture porn aspect of many serial killer dramas, instead it's mostly talking - and all the better for it. Pretty much all the men in it are thoroughly appalling, even the good guys.

Really enjoyed it. Although I would put the the (leading) women in the same boat as the men.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Steph on 24 October, 2017, 12:34:32 pm
Guilty pleasure...Vikings.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ian on 07 November, 2017, 08:35:02 pm
Watched Season 2 of The Expanse with my son. Since until a week ago he lived in Edinburgh, this was a rare indulgence. It didn't disappoint. Nobody says "Go fuck yourself" like Shohreh Aghdashloo

Love that series. Books are worth reading too.

I quite like it, and maybe it's just me, but I do find some of the acting a bit, erm, variable in quality. Which I find a bit jarring in these days of high-ish production values.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 07 November, 2017, 08:59:27 pm
Yeah, it shows it's roots from time to time.  The SyFy channel normally makes pretty poor TV shows and it probably showed through a bit in season2. It took Bobbie Draper a long time to fit into her role.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 07 November, 2017, 09:45:42 pm
It feels like Babylon 5 with a less intricate storyline and much better special effects.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 November, 2017, 09:26:36 am
It feels like Babylon 5 with a less intricate storyline and much better special effects.

Where does that leave it on the internationally-recognised Big Pile Of Shit scale :demon:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ian on 08 November, 2017, 11:22:01 am
It is a bit Babylon 5y (oh, I confess, I watched 'em).

Anyway, I'm just starting on series 2. It's Nagata and Draper (who, I suppose may indeed improve) who're a bit annoying in the acting stakes – the other main characters mostly OK, Holden is played with sufficient self-righteous annoyance, Miller is still the best thing in it.

This said, the books take a long time to get anywhere...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Riggers on 08 November, 2017, 02:30:31 pm
Forget all that nonsense above . . .  The Detectorists is back on tonight at 10pm BBC4. Episode 1 of the 3rd series. Excellent!

Talking of 'excellent', so too was Motherland last night, on BBC2 at 10pm. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/tv/2017/11/07/motherland-reaches-similar-comedy-heights-fawlty-towers-review/
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 08 November, 2017, 02:39:18 pm
On account of an interweb full of recommendations, I've just finished series 1 of The Good Place.

It's a sitcom made by USAnians, which is never a good start, but it's amusing enough, the episodes are short and sweet, and there's enough of a story arc to make it worth coming back to, though not really in a six-seasons-and-a-movie way.

At risk of spoilers, they didn't quite do the Surface Detail ending (or, for that matter, the Scooby Doo ending), but did set things up for a second season in an acceptable way.  I'm not ruling out the possibility of the Pleasantville ending quite yet.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 08 November, 2017, 03:45:22 pm
We've got Motherland recorded to watch. Looks promising.

On the comedy front, I've also been enjoying Gameface, which is basically Roisin Conaty playing the same part she plays in Man Down but as the main character. I'm a big fan of her work. She's very funny. Also has Mrs Doyle as her mum.

Man Down is also back for a new series but I've not caught up with it yet.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 08 November, 2017, 04:04:14 pm
I rewatched the pilot of Motherland last week - great stuff. Very optimistic. (I only just found out that Sharon Horgan is on the writing team :)

Gameface is very good so far - which was nice, as I just cannot get Man Down.

But of course this is the best news of the week:

Forget all that nonsense above . . .  The Detectorists is back on tonight at 10pm BBC4. Episode 1 of the 3rd series.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 09 November, 2017, 09:16:05 am
Hurrah (Detectorists) and ditto (Motherland).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 09 November, 2017, 02:24:46 pm
The Fight for Mosul (http://www.radiotimes.com/news/tv/2017-11-07/fight-for-mosul-channel-4-how-it-was-filmed/) the other night.

Eye opening and thought provoking.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ruthie on 09 November, 2017, 02:28:49 pm
I just watched ‘The Secrets of Slim People’ on All4 (or one of those C4 I-player thingies). It was really interesting. The most interesting thing for me was the very quick point they made at the end about happiness.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 09 November, 2017, 03:09:50 pm
The Fight for Mosul (http://www.radiotimes.com/news/tv/2017-11-07/fight-for-mosul-channel-4-how-it-was-filmed/) the other night.

Eye opening and thought provoking.

That was powerful television. I've never been a soldier, let alone a soldier in war, but I think I've learned a little bit more what it might be like after watching that. Interesting that it's been through the eyes of the members of an Iraqi elite forces squad.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 09 November, 2017, 03:31:59 pm
I rewatched the pilot of Motherland last week - great stuff. Very optimistic. (I only just found out that Sharon Horgan is on the writing team :)

Sharon Horgan, Graham Linehan, Helen Linehan and Holly Walsh, apparently.

Watched both the pilot and first episode last night. Laughed a lot. Diane Morgan is superb.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 10 November, 2017, 08:50:53 am
And Anna Maxwell Martin does comedy.  Who knew?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: hillbilly on 10 November, 2017, 09:19:51 am
Detectorists is tonally different to most comedies at the moment, and is much the better for it.  It's with mixed feelings that this will be the last series.

(Gameface and Motherland are good, particularly the latter on strength of the first episode.  A decent batch of UK comedies at the moment, which when mixed with Arrested Development and Yes Minister on Netflix pretty much defines my mirth quota.  Despite watching the latest series, I honestly can't remember the last time I laughed out loud at Man Down).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 10 November, 2017, 07:15:26 pm
The stars/writers of Detectorists were on Front Row (R4, obvs) earlier this week. An interesting listen! Crook is an intriguing fellow and worth chatting to - it's sobering to think that without the much-loved undisputed* comedy classic "The Office", we probably wouldn't now have the Detectorists to enjoy.

Top Trivia - our heroes are actually doing real Detectoring during takes, with real Detectorers - & Crook has actually found a tiny piece of roman gold :)




*this probably is disputed - Ed
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 11 November, 2017, 10:29:39 am
I hope Toby was with him and said 'What have you got?' when he stopped to dig it up.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Riggers on 14 November, 2017, 08:59:14 am
We've got Motherland recorded to watch. Looks promising.

On the comedy front, I've also been enjoying Gameface, which is basically Roisin Conaty playing the same part she plays in Man Down but as the main character. I'm a big fan of her work. She's very funny. Also has Mrs Doyle as her mum.

Man Down is also back for a new series but I've not caught up with it yet.

There was a 'pilot' of hers that played (last year? two year's ago?) which had her waking up, hair in disarray, make-up all over the place, next to a man she obviously couldn't recall from the night before, then making her way back home with only one shoe. Later she had to give a speech to her old school, which was hilarious. But the show never aired! A pity, and I now can't remember the name of it. It looked brilliant, and couldn't understand why there was never series from this.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 14 November, 2017, 09:20:41 am
Watched ep1 of the new Howard's End adaptation last night. All a bit meh. The hair just isn't big enough. I re-read A Room With A View not so long ago and came to the conclusion that for any EM Forster adaptation to work it needs to include a young Helena Bonham Carter with massive hair. And it needs to have some backbone too, ie Judi Dench/Maggie Smith/Daniel Day Lewis/Anthony Hopkins/Vanessa Redgrave/Emma Thompson/Prunella Scales. I like Macfadyen but he's no Hopkins. Julia Ormond is pretty good though, probably the best thing in it.

Also: who thought it would be a good idea to basically give away the whole plot in the teaser for next week's episode?  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 14 November, 2017, 09:23:55 am
There was a 'pilot' of hers that played (last year? two year's ago?) which had her waking up, hair in disarray, make-up all over the place, next to a man she obviously couldn't recall from the night before, then making her way back home with only one shoe. Later she had to give a speech to her old school, which was hilarious. But the show never aired! A pity, and I now can't remember the name of it. It looked brilliant, and couldn't understand why there was never series from this.

That sounds very much like the pilot for Gameface, which was on telly in 2014, apparently.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Riggers on 14 November, 2017, 12:42:05 pm
I think you might be right Citoyers, but, the Psychiatrist was played by the excellent Mike Wozniak, who's in 'Man Down', amongst other things. On the clip I've just seen advertising 'Gameface', they have the 'perpetually nervous' actor (Karl Theobald) from Green Wing, playing the part. Dunno why? Maybe Mike is contractually unavailable.

But . . . damn and blast, does this mean I've already missed the first episode!!?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 14 November, 2017, 12:51:00 pm
Jo Brand's doing a new series about cats and kittens which starts tonight.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 14 November, 2017, 01:03:29 pm
I think you might be right Citoyers, but, the Psychiatrist was played by the excellent Mike Wozniak, who's in 'Man Down', amongst other things. On the clip I've just seen advertising 'Gameface', they have the 'perpetually nervous' actor (Karl Theobald) from Green Wing, playing the part. Dunno why? Maybe Mike is contractually unavailable.

But . . . damn and blast, does this mean I've already missed the first episode!!?

BN: Yes. (in fact we might be on Ep3?? )
GN: Theobald is possibly the best thing in it (sorry mr Wozniak). And everyone in Green Wing should have a job for life :P

(GN-II: isn't all this shit on Catchpup these days? )
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Riggers on 14 November, 2017, 01:21:38 pm
I think you might be right Citoyers, but, the Psychiatrist was played by the excellent Mike Wozniak, who's in 'Man Down', amongst other things. On the clip I've just seen advertising 'Gameface', they have the 'perpetually nervous' actor (Karl Theobald) from Green Wing, playing the part. Dunno why? Maybe Mike is contractually unavailable.

But . . . damn and blast, does this mean I've already missed the first episode!!?

BN: Yes. (in fact we might be on Ep3?? )
GN: Theobald is possibly the best thing in it (sorry mr Wozniak). And everyone in Green Wing should have a job for life :P

(GN-II: isn't all this shit on Catchpup these days? )

Yep! And Mark Heap can do no wrong in my book!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 14 November, 2017, 01:39:27 pm
I think you might be right Citoyers, but, the Psychiatrist was played by the excellent Mike Wozniak, who's in 'Man Down', amongst other things. On the clip I've just seen advertising 'Gameface', they have the 'perpetually nervous' actor (Karl Theobald) from Green Wing, playing the part. Dunno why? Maybe Mike is contractually unavailable.

Wozniak would have been good as the psychiatrist but maybe too much overlap with Man Down? Karl Theobald is also excellent though.

Quote
But . . . damn and blast, does this mean I've already missed the first episode!!?

I've seen the whole series. Don't know if it's all been broadcast yet but it's all available to download from All 4.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: lahoski on 15 November, 2017, 12:13:00 pm
Speaking of recent comedy series. Did anyone love Fleabag as much as I did?

New series currently filming, though it won't be broadcast 'til 2019. Hopefully the impending apocalypse will hold off until afterwards.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 15 November, 2017, 12:33:29 pm
Since the man himself subscribes to the belief that there should be no such thing as a guilty pleasure (https://uktvplay.uktv.co.uk/shows/dave-gormans-modern-life-is-goodish/watch-online/?video=5187621383001), I'll come right out and say that I'm very much enjoying the new series of Dave Gorman's Modern Life Is Goodish on Dave.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: hillbilly on 15 November, 2017, 12:51:37 pm
Speaking of recent comedy series. Did anyone love Fleabag as much as I did?

New series currently filming, though it won't be broadcast 'til 2019. Hopefully the impending apocalypse will hold off until afterwards.

You are not alone.  One of the best things on TV last year.

I think it's been picked up be Amazon, so it may be more difficult to catch the new series without a Prime subscription.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 15 November, 2017, 01:01:44 pm
Since the man himself subscribes to the belief that there should be no such thing as a guilty pleasure (https://uktvplay.uktv.co.uk/shows/dave-gormans-modern-life-is-goodish/watch-online/?video=5187621383001), I'll come right out and say that I'm very much enjoying the new series of Dave Gorman's Modern Life Is Goodish on Dave.
Me too. The found poem he did the other week which included references to Take That had me in tears of laughter.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: lahoski on 15 November, 2017, 03:36:10 pm
You are not alone.  One of the best things on TV last year.

I think it's been picked up be Amazon, so it may be more difficult to catch the new series without a Prime subscription.

Hopefully it'll be one of those co-production type arrangements and Auntie Beeb will still have broadcast rights.

"You know that thing when a guy sends you a text at two o'clock on a Tuesday night asking if he can come and find you and you've accidentally made it out like you've just got in yourself so you have to get out of bed, drink half a bottle of wine, get in the shower, shave everything, dig out some Agent Provocateur business, suspender belt the whole bit and wait by the door til the buzzer goes?"

BEST OPENING LINE EVERRRR.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ian on 20 November, 2017, 09:40:32 am
Was just getting into The Expanse (the acting seemed to get better) when it finished. Oh I hate that, but I remember that it's spread over about a bazillion books. Grumble.

Decided to watch the second series of Daredevil because I want to watch Defenders and it'll probably make no sense. For a superhero he gets beat up a lot. I'm worried he'll get a kicking from primary school kids in the next episode. Poor chap.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 20 November, 2017, 10:58:53 am
Anyone else watching Howards End? I'm sticking with it, despite my reservations after last week's first episode but it all feels a bit flat. Leonard Bast is portrayed as a bit of a weed, which doesn't seem quite right to me. And the lack of big hair continues to disappoint.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 05 December, 2017, 09:55:29 am
Since the man himself subscribes to the belief that there should be no such thing as a guilty pleasure (https://uktvplay.uktv.co.uk/shows/dave-gormans-modern-life-is-goodish/watch-online/?video=5187621383001), I'll come right out and say that I'm very much enjoying the new series of Dave Gorman's Modern Life Is Goodish on Dave.
Me too. The found poem he did the other week which included references to Take That had me in tears of laughter.
This week's episode (with the black cab) was truly inspired.  Gales of laughter at Legs Towers.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 05 December, 2017, 06:45:01 pm
Legion. A Marvel TV series that isn't marvelly at all. Stranger Things for adults and has some really innovative stuff. Excellent writing, editing and very little fluff.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 05 December, 2017, 07:10:42 pm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b09hlz8b  Volcano Expedition - by Willard Price*

Not sure why I watched this, as the title was not inspiring ... But volcanoes are brilliant, aren't they! So we watched these, and we learned stuff, and marvelled at stuff.

(If anyone watched the "epic" adventures of Bear Grylls clambering round a welsh quarry with Rob Brydon and thought "hmmm ... and?"; watch the first one of these. Some proper scary clambering about, and with an actual scientific purpose.   :thumbsup: )


*joke for 70s kids https://www.bookdepository.com/Volcano-Adventure-Willard-Price/9781782950219
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 05 December, 2017, 07:14:26 pm
Legion. A Marvel TV series that isn't marvelly at all. Stranger Things for adults and has some really innovative stuff. Excellent writing, editing and very little fluff.

I really enjoyed it.  Some concentration required, but it neatly avoids the frustration of either the "is this reality?" trope, or turning the whole thing into a puzzle for the viewer.  May contain Pink Floyd or traces of Pink Floyd.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 05 December, 2017, 07:18:42 pm
*joke for 70s kids https://www.bookdepository.com/Volcano-Adventure-Willard-Price/9781782950219[/sub]

I think I read a whole shelf of those.  And all I can remember is that pumice floats and that tigers can swim.  I'm sure they weren't all buoyancy-related.  Oh, was there a witch doctor in one of them?  I'm sure it was problematic racial stereotypes all the way down, but that rings a bell...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 05 December, 2017, 09:01:24 pm
I think the witchdoctor wasn't a real witchdoctor but a bent conservation worker dressing up to instill fear. Something like that anyway.  The scarier one was on some tropical island where The Baddy got his foot caught by a giant clam. And then the tide came in.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 06 December, 2017, 04:10:45 am
Did "Volcano Adventure" have a Scientist who had Been Hit on the Head as A Young Man and was thus prone to do silly things in the presence of molten lava?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 06 December, 2017, 11:00:10 am
Tiger Adventure was my favourite... I must have read it at least a dozen times.

Hardy Boys by the truckload, too.  How disappointed was I (my Wikipedia find of the day) to discover that Franklin W. Dixon is not a real, nor indeed individual, person! (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franklin_W._Dixon)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 December, 2017, 11:27:28 am
*joke for 70s kids https://www.bookdepository.com/Volcano-Adventure-Willard-Price/9781782950219[/sub]

I think I read a whole shelf of those.  And all I can remember is that pumice floats and that tigers can swim.  I'm sure they weren't all buoyancy-related.  Oh, was there a witch doctor in one of them?  I'm sure it was problematic racial stereotypes all the way down, but that rings a bell...
Should I be ashamed to say I read all of those?
Not sure if they were full of racial stereotypes or not. White man always gets his animal, that's the sole memory I have of them.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 06 December, 2017, 12:18:16 pm
*joke for 70s kids https://www.bookdepository.com/Volcano-Adventure-Willard-Price/9781782950219[/sub]

I think I read a whole shelf of those.  And all I can remember is that pumice floats and that tigers can swim.  I'm sure they weren't all buoyancy-related.  Oh, was there a witch doctor in one of them?  I'm sure it was problematic racial stereotypes all the way down, but that rings a bell...

Should I be ashamed to say I read all of those?

Not sure if they were full of racial stereotypes or not. White man always gets his animal, that's the sole memory I have of them.
Probably - but I know I'm not ashamed  ;D I was only 11-ish

Floating pumice is a strong memory. The other thing was how hovercrafts can fly waaaaay above ground (cos Hal drove one off a cliff). Is that still true??

[70s non-PC horrors aside, I suspect they're quite edukashunal books. I probably learned a lot of interesting stuff without realising at the time. Hopefully slightly more than from the Harry Potter books! ]
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 14 December, 2017, 10:53:09 am
Really getting into Witnesses: A Frozen Death on iPlayer.  Glad of the subtitles (it's in French) and completely flummoxed by it!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 14 December, 2017, 07:14:21 pm
We’ve been enjoying that too. Looking forward to the final episodes this weekend.

Missed the first series when it was on C4 so need to catch up with that too.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 14 December, 2017, 07:30:10 pm
The Punisher on Netflix.

Every bit as good as it sounds.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 15 December, 2017, 06:20:16 am
We’ve been enjoying that too. Looking forward to the final episodes this weekend.

Missed the first series when it was on C4 so need to catch up with that too.

Despite plot holes big enough to drive a bus-full of corpses through, it's grimly enjoyable tosh, isn't it?  One thing's for sure, I'd be pretty uneasy about being under a French witness protection scheme...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 18 December, 2017, 12:17:18 pm
Despite plot holes big enough to drive a bus-full of corpses through, it's grimly enjoyable tosh, isn't it?  One thing's for sure, I'd be pretty uneasy about being under a French witness protection scheme...

I'd be pretty uneasy about being a French cop working on a witness protection scheme!

Did enjoy it on the whole, but was bothered by the high number of collateral fatalities. If Sandra had let Max and Justin know the identity of the killer as soon as she was given the name, it would have saved a few lives. Max seemed resigned to losing her job by the end of it, but Sandra really ought to be facing some kind of serious professional misconduct charge too.

(click to show/hide)

Anyway, Spiral to look forward to next...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rogerzilla on 18 December, 2017, 06:23:01 pm
The League of Gentlemen returns tonight for a three-night run.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 19 December, 2017, 10:32:47 am
Hmm, it all went a bit flat at the end, but it was good until ep 7, I thought.

Anyway, Spiral to look forward to next...

Not seen any of the previous series, but heard good things about this... Do you think it's likely to be understandable as a standalone?
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 19 December, 2017, 10:47:48 am
The League of Gentlemen returns tonight for a three-night run.

...brilliantly treading the fine line between comedy and tragedy. I thought it was superb.

(Although some of the best gags were hidden in the background - eg “let’s call a spayed a spayed” and Pamela Doove’s shipping forecast, both of which made me LOL. Also: ACRONYM - genius.)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 19 December, 2017, 10:51:44 am
Anyway, Spiral to look forward to next...

Not seen any of the previous series, but heard good things about this... Do you think it's likely to be understandable as a standalone?

Don’t know, haven’t seen it myself. We’ve got series 1-4 on dvd to binge on over Christmas, so we’ll save S6 until we’ve done those (obviously need to get hold of S5 as well).

I believe Mr Larrington is the resident Engrenages aficionado.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rogerzilla on 19 December, 2017, 02:06:12 pm
The League of Gentlemen returns tonight for a three-night run.

...brilliantly treading the fine line between comedy and tragedy. I thought it was superb.

(Although some of the best gags were hidden in the background - eg “let’s call a spayed a spayed” and Pamela Doove’s shipping forecast, both of which made me LOL. Also: ACRONYM - genius.)
I did wonder where the Pauline Campbell-Jones sketch was going until the very end.  I liked the two (very grown up) teenagers from the video rental shop trying to flog pirate DVDs that hadn't moved on since the original series.  And, of course, Chloe amd Radclyffe being even creepier than ever.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rogerzilla on 21 December, 2017, 06:39:47 am
The third episode was really back on form, and the purpose of the photo booth was revealed.

The little scene on the railway platform at the end suggests to.me that there may be more specials, but no more full series.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 21 December, 2017, 12:49:39 pm
I felt it went a bit flat after the first episode, but still had enough laughs to be worthwhile. Pretty obvious all along who was going to be behind the photo booth. The pathos of Pauline's storyline was quite poignant. Almost felt sorry for her in the end. Not so keen on the Edward and Tubbs storyline.

The scene on the station platform at the end was odd. Almost like they were saying, 'Yes, we know it's a bit shit but what did you expect?' I hope they don't bring it back again.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 21 December, 2017, 08:01:32 pm
Woo, Spiral / Engrenages starts again on the 30th Dec :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 22 December, 2017, 01:10:24 am
^Nice! Loved that series
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 30 December, 2017, 07:49:44 pm
Woo, Spiral / Engrenages starts again on the 30th Dec :)

Mobile switched off, phone disconnected, router unplugged in 3-2-1...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 31 December, 2017, 01:12:37 pm
If the reappearance of the late Pierre turns out to be anything than a one-off joke by the writer I shall be obliged to travel to France and shoot them in the face, with square bullets.  Only pausing to deliver Maitre Karlsson a new hairbrush.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 31 December, 2017, 03:27:25 pm
Oi! I ent watched it yet!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ian on 31 December, 2017, 06:11:18 pm
Quite enjoying Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.. The first series was OK, the second a lot better. Far more pacey than often sludgy other Marvel adaptations for TV (Jessica Jones spent an entire season trying to imprison a bloke who obviously, given his special power, couldn't ever be imprisoned, Daredevil spends entire series being beaten up by old ladies, kittens, etc. and then fretting about it). I'm quite looking forward to the The Punisher though, on the grounds that he ought to just get on with the punishing as per the job description. It's on the list. Did plan to watch the follow-on from Stranger Things over the holidays but beer intervened.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 01 January, 2018, 07:06:09 pm
In a 'brainless entertainment' sort of way, the Red Bull Soapbox Races shown on Dave have been required viewing this Xmas.

If you missed them  - or never seen one - they're on UK TV Play catch up. And funny...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 02 January, 2018, 09:34:27 am
In a 'brainless entertainment' sort of way, the Red Bull Soapbox Races shown on Dave have been required viewing this Xmas.

I like these too. I particularly like the way they get points awarded for the acting and show they put on before launching the soapbox down the course. There are some completely barmy ones.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 02 January, 2018, 09:53:27 am
Undecided about "McMafia".  For starters, it's not about Glaswegian gangsters at all, plus it smells strongly of "The Night Manager With A Russian Accent".
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 02 January, 2018, 10:22:39 am
In a 'brainless entertainment' sort of way, the Red Bull Soapbox Races shown on Dave have been required viewing this Xmas.

I like these too. I particularly like the way they get points awarded for the acting and show they put on before launching the soapbox down the course. There are some completely barmy ones.

Quite seriously, it strikes me as remarkable that no one has been seriously injured given some of the 'bodgineering' going on. Maybe worth a thread of its own somewhere but surely yacf could come up with something capable of more than one run...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 02 January, 2018, 11:03:10 am
We finally watched all of Bancroft last night.

Actually we didn't't, they only showed 4 episodes. (out of 4  ??? )
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 03 January, 2018, 06:37:30 pm
Really getting into Witnesses: A Frozen Death on iPlayer.  Glad of the subtitles (it's in French) and completely flummoxed by it!  :thumbsup:

We’ve been watching this. Episode 3 a combine stops whilst harvesting. Next scene cops search the woods with trees in spring bud  ::-)

Edit: We both agreed it was unbelievable tripe and we had no empathy with the characters. Deleted.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ian on 03 January, 2018, 07:24:29 pm
Taking a break from the land of Marvel, now on Supernatural series 10 (10!), which I found as a genuine shrinkwrapped DVD that I'd been trying to open since 2014. Normally I think most series should give up, but I'm minded that Supernatural should continue until Sam and Dean are bickering geriatrics is a rusting Impala juddering through Nowhere, Wyoming while listening to Journey.

Anyway, last night's fan-fic musical version of Supernatural in the girl's school made me splortchortle myself into an early bathroom break.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 05 January, 2018, 05:45:04 pm
Really enjoying La Casa de Papel, on Netflix.

Spanish heist drama, great acting and fantastic story.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 07 January, 2018, 02:03:04 pm
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: hillbilly on 08 January, 2018, 05:31:14 pm
Glow (Netflix).  5 hours of US comedy (10 episodes, 0.5hrs each) that is well worth watching because it is full of the chuckles.  Premise is the fictionalised creation of the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling (which was a real thing in the US) but it's really a story about the pursuit of fame.  It is well scripted, well shot (captures the 80s vibe) and well acted.

Have also been watching the latest Black Mirror (Netflix).  Don't believe the hype - I found this series disappointing on the whole.  It left me with the impression it is a concept that has run it's course, largely because it is beginning to cover similar ground to previous series, but in less interesting ways.  Only USS Callister and Hang the DJ really left an impression, but even those were middling.

Likewise Inside No. 9, which has come back on BBC2.  I really like this show, as it is often interesting and well written (Christine is one of my favourite TV episodes).  I didn't really click with the first episode of the new series though (too clever by half, being written in rhyming couplets) but am hoping future episodes will be better.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Oscar's dad on 17 January, 2018, 01:45:45 pm
I could easily of started a new thread but here seems a good place to pose the question: what should we watch next on Netflix?

So far we have watched all of Breaking Bad and think it was probably the best thing we have ever seen on the telly or at the cinema.  We also enjoyed the US version of House of Cards and started watching the most recent series but thought it was a bit slow, then Trump proved fact can indeed be stranger than fiction, then the Kevin Spacey controversy broke so we have dumped HoC.  Good Wife has proved to be excellent but is leaving Netflix at the end of the month so we have bought the final two seasons on DVD and will watch them whilst we are away in the caravan.

So what next on Netflix?  Thanks in advance.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: hillbilly on 17 January, 2018, 03:16:28 pm
Currently working our way through The Good Place on Netflix.  Premise is that Kirsten Bell is wrongly sent to a version of heaven run by Ted Danson.  It's forking good.

I'm also trying #metoo debating point Aziz Ansari's Master of None.  It's not really grabbing me though, as he's never as funny as he thinks he is. 

"End of the ****ing World" on the other hand (on Netflix and All4 - or 4Play as its known in my house) is very awesome.  Two disaffected youths ripping it up.  Chortles.  20mins an episode is well worth anyones time.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Oscar's dad on 17 January, 2018, 03:42:57 pm
Ok, thanks, good suggestions!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: andyoxon on 17 January, 2018, 04:35:17 pm
on netflix...
Narcos is excellent.  3 seasons of gripping stuff.  Hard hitting at times.  You get used to the high spanish subtitle content.
Manhunt: Unabomber also very well done.
Stranger Things 1&2
Shooter 1&2 (based on the film) much better than expected

edit.  Breaking bad was the first thing I watched on Netflix - still the best I reckon.
'Better Call Saul' spin-off is very well done too.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Paul H on 17 January, 2018, 05:07:55 pm
I only have Netflix for the winter months and binge, binge, binge.
Highlights for me have been
Stranger Things 1 & 2
Fargo - film and two series
Suburra - film
Wallander - the original not the BBC version
Godless - A western I was persuaded to watch and am glad I did
Orange is the new black - I've only watched the first series

Plenty of other stuff I've enjoyed and plenty where the first episode was enough. I've tried hard to like Peaky Blinders, mainly because I keep coming across the soundtrack, but i don't get it.



Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 17 January, 2018, 07:49:18 pm
Better Call Saul is superb. Possibly even better than Breaking Bad.

Ozark is good, in a similar vein.

Mindhunter is great.

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Oscar's dad on 18 January, 2018, 07:37:32 am
We started on Better Call Saul but couldn’t get into it. I was wondering if we should try again.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ian on 18 January, 2018, 09:01:52 am
Reminds me, I'm one of the 3,562 people left who has yet to see Breaking Bad. And I mean properly watch it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Oscar's dad on 18 January, 2018, 09:04:51 am
Reminds me, I'm one of the 3,562 people left who has yet to see Breaking Bad. And I mean properly watch it.

It is properly good.  The middle seasons lose it a bit but its still worth watching but it wraps up nicely.  Once we had finished watching it we suffered mild feelings of grief, I kid you not - pathetic I know.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ian on 18 January, 2018, 09:11:23 am
It's not that I don't want to watch it, I just have commitment issues. It'll take months to watch them all.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Oscar's dad on 18 January, 2018, 11:24:07 am
It's not that I don't want to watch it, I just have commitment issues. It'll take months to watch them all.

It does.  You have to commit to sitting on your sofa for hours on end drinking your drink of choice and eating your snack of choice.  During the winter, whilst the weather is rubbish, we don't have a problem with this level of commitment.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 18 January, 2018, 11:28:09 am
Ah, OD, but you're not a jetsetting Tidy-Haired Thought Leader :demon:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ian on 18 January, 2018, 11:41:25 am
With a limited attention span. I can't watch more than two hours of telev... oh look, a squirrel.

Maybe they could break it up into Powerpoint slides. Bullet point those plot elements.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Oscar's dad on 18 January, 2018, 11:45:17 am
Ah, OD, but you're not a jetsetting Tidy-Haired Thought Leader :demon:

Sometimes it helps to be as shallow as a puddle.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Oscar's dad on 18 January, 2018, 11:46:37 am
With a limited attention span. I can't watch more than two hours of telev... oh look, a squirrel.

I'm not noted for my ability to sit still for long but I can when it comes to Netflix, go figure...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Eccentrica Gallumbits on 18 January, 2018, 12:44:33 pm
The second part of the BBC's Big Cats thing is on tonight. The footage is great, but the narration is dire. And Pete would like it to be known that the black-footed cat does not have the highest kill success rate of all cats at 60%. Pete manages to kill his glittery spider at least 90% of the time, and his catnip hedgehog about 80% of the time but sometimes he just licks it and gets too stoned to kill it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Oscar's dad on 18 January, 2018, 02:46:46 pm
Pete and a mate need to make a feline version of Breaking Bad where they buy a beaten up Winnebago and manufacture 100% pure synthetic catnip.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Oscar's dad on 29 January, 2018, 07:22:52 am
on netflix...
Narcos is excellent.  3 seasons of gripping stuff.  Hard hitting at times.  You get used to the high spanish subtitle content.

An update...

Yesterday afternoon we had time for a Netflix session. We tried MAD Men but after half an hour decided it wasn’t for us. Then we tried Narcos and enjoyed the first two episodes of Season 1. I think we’ve found our next fix!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 06 February, 2018, 02:31:17 pm
Horizon (https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b09rdg0z/horizon-2018-1-my-amazing-brain-richards-war) last night.  I think I might have got something in my eye towards the end. 
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 06 February, 2018, 03:46:41 pm
Yesterday I discovered http://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-biggest-little-railway-in-the-world

It's got that tedious mission documentary style, but the fundamental eccentricity of the idea (like that James May programme with the 10 mile Hornby railway, but more ambitious) is pleasing enough that it's eminently watchable.  Confirms a few stereotypes about model railway enthusiasts and engineers... kind of thing that makes you proud to be British.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 06 February, 2018, 04:03:15 pm
Yesterday I discovered http://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-biggest-little-railway-in-the-world

It's got that tedious mission documentary style, but the fundamental eccentricity of the idea (like that James May programme with the 10 mile Hornby railway, but more ambitious) is pleasing enough that it's eminently watchable.  Confirms a few stereotypes about model railway enthusiasts and engineers... kind of thing that makes you proud to be British.

A 1 hour program, stretched to (what feels like) a hundred 1 hour programs.

Every now and then I like to remind myself of the TV shows suggested, in a blind panic, by Alan Partridge.  Steve Coogan says he thought of the most ludicrous ideas he could.  A couple of decades later and they have either been made or sound like they could have been made....

Alan Partridge: [Opening a file] Right, OK. Shoestring, Taggart, Spender, Bergerac, Morse. What does that say to you about regional detective series?
Tony Hayers: There's too many of them?
Alan Partridge: That's one way of looking at it, another way of looking at it is, people like them, let's make some more of them. A detective series based in Norwich called "Swallow". Swallow is a detective who tackles vandalism. Bit of a maverick, not afraid to break the law if he thinks it's necessary. He's not a criminal, you know, but he will, perhaps, travel 80mph on the motorway if, for example, he wants to get somewhere quickly...
[Tony shakes his head]
Alan Partridge: Think about it. No one had heard of Oxford before Inspector Morse. I mean, this will put Norwich on the map.
Tony Hayers: Why would I want to do that?
Alan Partridge: Yep, fair point.
[He turns to another page]
Alan Partridge: OK, right. "Alan Attack!". Like the Cook Report, but with a more slapstick approach.
[Tony shakes his head again]
Alan Partridge: 'Arm Wrestling with Chas and Dave'.
Tony Hayers: I don't think so.
Alan Partridge: Pity, because they were very keen on that one. Right, now you'll like this... "Knowing M.E., Knowing You". I, Alan Partridge, talk to M.E. sufferers about the condition. You know, we intersperse it with their favourite pop songs, make it light-hearted, you know, give them a platform, you've got to keep the energy up, because...
[Tony shakes his head, horrified]
Alan Partridge: You don't like it? That's alright, that's OK... "Inner-City Sumo".
Tony Hayers: What's that?
Alan Partridge: We take fat people from the inner cities, put them in big nappies, and then get them to throw each other out of a circle that we draw with chalk on the ground.
Tony Hayers: [laughing and shaking his head] No, no, it's a bad idea.
Alan Partridge: Very cheap to make. Do it in a pub car park.
Tony Hayers: [laughing] No.
Tony Hayers: If you don't do it, Sky will.
Alan Partridge: Well, I'll live with that. Is that it?
Alan Partridge: Well, no, no, um... Cooking in prison.
Tony Hayers: [laughing] Oh, no.
Alan Partridge: Uh, uh... "A Partridge Amongst The Pigeons".
Tony Hayers: What's that?
Alan Partridge: Well, it's just a title, I mean... Erm... No, uh-uh-uh, opening sequence, me, in Trafalgar Square, feeding the pigeons, going "Oh God!"
Tony Hayers: [Holds his hands up] No, I'm sorry, no! Stop!
Alan Partridge: [Stammers] Erm, erm... Youth Hosteling with... Chris Eubank.
Tony Hayers: [laughs] No!
[a pause as Alan tries to think of something else]
Alan Partridge: Monkey Tennis?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 06 February, 2018, 04:22:25 pm
Yesterday I discovered http://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-biggest-little-railway-in-the-world

It's got that tedious mission documentary style, but the fundamental eccentricity of the idea (like that James May programme with the 10 mile Hornby railway, but more ambitious) is pleasing enough that it's eminently watchable.  Confirms a few stereotypes about model railway enthusiasts and engineers... kind of thing that makes you proud to be British.

A 1 hour program, stretched to (what feels like) a hundred 1 hour programs.

I must admit, I used my standard documentary-watching technique of obtaining a video file and playing it back at accelerated speed.  (Thwarted somewhat by lack of subtitles- there's only so fast I can go while still following the audio alone.)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 07 February, 2018, 09:06:14 am
Yesterday I discovered http://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-biggest-little-railway-in-the-world

It's got that tedious mission documentary style, but the fundamental eccentricity of the idea (like that James May programme with the 10 mile Hornby railway, but more ambitious) is pleasing enough that it's eminently watchable.  Confirms a few stereotypes about model railway enthusiasts and engineers... kind of thing that makes you proud to be British.

It was OK but a tad old fashioned. I think they should do an updated one where they have to electrify the whole line and run a model 225 full nine coach train down it at full scale speed :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ian on 07 February, 2018, 12:23:41 pm
Then maybe with the train half the way down the line, the people running the railway could decide it's not profitable enough and wander off. After taking your wallet.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Oscar's dad on 07 February, 2018, 12:50:23 pm
Yesterday I discovered http://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-biggest-little-railway-in-the-world

It's got that tedious mission documentary style, but the fundamental eccentricity of the idea (like that James May programme with the 10 mile Hornby railway, but more ambitious) is pleasing enough that it's eminently watchable.  Confirms a few stereotypes about model railway enthusiasts and engineers... kind of thing that makes you proud to be British.

It was OK but a tad old fashioned. I think they should do an updated one where they have to electrify the whole line and run a model 225 full nine coach train down it at full scale speed :)

I haven't watched the programme yet.  Was the Daily Mail being sold on the train?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 08 February, 2018, 12:52:10 am
I'm usually first in the queueueueueueueee... for docs like this. Anything with Dick Strawbridge and Claire Barratt is pretty much on the money, no?

In this case, no. Emphatically No. Just. No. It's only saving grace was it didn't feature Guy Martin. Because I like him, too . . .
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 08 February, 2018, 09:04:11 am
My main beefs with it were the ridiculous amount of fake jeopardy:

If we dont get this bit line laid in the next 10 minutes its all over

Well no obviously its not as if it is the rest of the program and all of the next episode is going to be a bit pointless isn't it.

Secondly they didn't actually run a train they ran a locomotive, a very nice one but a train needs at least one wagon or carriage and this had non not even a coal tender.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 08 February, 2018, 01:15:04 pm
They started off with a carriage, but gave up because it kept derailing.

Lack of testing on poorly-levelled track, I think.  The loco itself also suffered from being top-heavy.

What really impressed me was how poor a choice the emergency backup electric loco was.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 09 February, 2018, 10:06:30 pm
If you’ve not seen it, catch up with Derry Girls. Superb throughout.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: tiermat on 10 February, 2018, 08:23:16 am
Back to OD's question.

Stick with Peaky Blinders, it does get good and the soundtrack is superb.
Narcos works very well, across all the series.
Black Mirror is variable, some good, some Meh.
Two series I have really enjoyed are:
La Casa de Papel and
Cable Girls
Both are in Spanish, but with English subtitles (the latter has both subs and has been dubbed, but they don't match, which annoyed me so I leave the original voice track on and use the subs)
For a good laugh, try Black Lightning, imagine Shaft, or Huggy Bear, as a superhero and you get the idea.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: essexian on 10 February, 2018, 08:39:51 am
I loved "Biggest little railway in the world" whereas CBH hated it.  The answer to my question concerning attending the model railway event at the showground last weekend was met with a resounding "NO".  :facepalm:

Anyway.... X Files Series 11 Ep 1..... I mean, what the hell was going on there???? I watched the first 10 minutes not knowing what the hell was going on until I realised that they had done a "Dallas" on us...... borrowed from the Guardians match report  :thumbsup:  It was like the time in "Buffy" when they introduced Dawn.  ???  Talking about Buffy, isn't it about time Channel 5 or the like rerun the whole lot from the start? Thursday evenings are just not the same anymore.

Of course being a Fanboy I will watch the rest of the series but frankly, I think I no longer believe.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 10 February, 2018, 11:17:31 am
I was mortified to discover I missed 11X01 the other night.  Time for thee Download ov Dubious Provenance.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ian on 11 February, 2018, 06:51:30 pm
I had assumed the X-Files had died. Colour me corrected.

We rewatched all the Buffies the other year, which was awesome (my god, they're so young, it's a bit of a shock since the standard US movie school kid these days looks about 25). It's aged well.

Finally finished Iron Fist. Entertaining enough, though really for a immortal kung-fu warrior he's not very good at kung-fu. That's the problem with superheroes, if they were that super, well. Jessica Jones, I've no idea what her thing was other than she was a bit strong and not especially bright (really, your great plan is to get the police to imprison a man who has complete control over anyone he talks to). Luke Cage was a lot better, but of of course, being indestructible requires the tedious kryptoniting plot line. Daredevil is OK, though he should cheer up and stop getting beaten up. He doesn't just get beaten up by the bad guys, he gets beaten up by their grans.

Anyway, I can watch Defenders now and The Punisher.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Karla on 11 February, 2018, 11:43:55 pm
Is anyone watching Requiem?  So far it's quite Wuthering Heights and very Turn of the Screw.


Back to OD's question.

Stick with Peaky Blinders, it does get good and the soundtrack is superb.

That mostly depends on how much you like Nick Cave!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 12 February, 2018, 10:18:33 am
I've been enjoying Requiem a lot more than I expected!

It's all very well done, with lots of shots of nice welsh towns I've been to :) I'm always wary of "supernatural chillers"; so far they seem to have found the balance - everything is explicable by people just behaving understandably in bad situations, but there MIGHT be something else behind it all ...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 12 February, 2018, 10:44:00 am
Requiem. Watched the first episode. Wife hated it but I thought it was OK. I would probably persevere with it if I didn't have a million other telly things to catch up on.

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 February, 2018, 10:50:18 am
Did anyone watch the Lizzy Borden Chronicles?

Entertaining, although an awful lot of it seemed to be that the rich can get away with, well, murder.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ben T on 15 February, 2018, 11:56:50 pm
Started watching requiem but found it a bit too arty farty for my liking. Too much reliance on "cool" camera shots and ominous silences.

Unlike "Trauma", watched the whole of, but equally shite. Not worth watching if you haven't already!
(click to show/hide)

Unlike "Collateral" which is so far really good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 16 February, 2018, 11:37:02 am
Unlike "Trauma", watched the whole of, but equally shite. Not worth watching if you haven't already!

I saw the first 10 minutes of that and found it extremely silly. And not in a good way. And it sounds like it went downhill from there.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 16 February, 2018, 03:51:07 pm
I loved "Biggest little railway in the world" whereas CBH hated it.  The answer to my question concerning attending the model railway event at the showground last weekend was met with a resounding "NO".  :facepalm:

Anyway.... X Files Series 11 Ep 1..... I mean, what the hell was going on there???? I watched the first 10 minutes not knowing what the hell was going on until I realised that they had done a "Dallas" on us...... borrowed from the Guardians match report  :thumbsup:  It was like the time in "Buffy" when they introduced Dawn.  ???  Talking about Buffy, isn't it about time Channel 5 or the like rerun the whole lot from the start? Thursday evenings are just not the same anymore.

Of course being a Fanboy I will watch the rest of the series but frankly, I think I no longer believe.

zOMG. Jumped the shark so long ago it appears to be fossilised..... and I hear tell Ms Anderson won't do another series, frankly the horse tranquilizers are somewhat overdue for this patient.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 16 February, 2018, 04:04:15 pm
“The young offenders”, a “Cork lads” version of “Derry girls” sort of.   BBC1 11.25pm
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 17 February, 2018, 09:40:18 pm
Started watching the 2nd series of Modus. The acting was abysmal. I gave up.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 17 February, 2018, 10:22:01 pm
Started watching the 2nd series of Modus. The acting was abysmal. I gave up.

Watching episode 3 right now but I think I’ve had enough of this nonsense. Yes, the acting is poor - FBI creep is especially bad. The awful script doesn’t help and the plot is beyond ridiculous.

Shame. I enjoyed the first series.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 18 February, 2018, 02:32:22 pm
S4 of "The Bridge" is due "late Spring", though, for all our poncey middle-class FOREIGN-language policical Funz.  Although I am a tad worried that the shark may have already been jumped with that one.
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 18 February, 2018, 02:50:49 pm
I don’t think the Bridge has got anywhere near as shark-jumpy as the US president being kidnapped yet.

We’ve finally got round to starting on Spiral - halfway through the first series so far. It’s very good. Still trying to get to grips with the French legal system though.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 18 February, 2018, 03:16:31 pm
I have an urge to binge-watch Engrenages again, but Miss von Brandenburg says I need to binge-watch Borgen instead.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 18 February, 2018, 05:21:23 pm
We didn't see Modus S1, but the new one is quite intriguing (after 2 Eps!). Agree that the FBI creep character is just generally a feeble character, but there's plenty else going on.

Perhaps we're seeing this with fresh, unbiased eyes?  O:-)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 18 February, 2018, 07:11:35 pm
We’ve finally got round to starting on Spiral - halfway through the first series so far. It’s very good. Still trying to get to grips with the French legal system though.
I was saying to Pingu must make a point of never breaking the law in France.....
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 18 February, 2018, 09:50:05 pm
Turns out the new John Cleese sitcom is every bit as shite as it sounded when Humpty Dumphries interviewed him about it on the Toady programme the other day.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: StuAff on 18 February, 2018, 10:31:10 pm
Turns out the new John Cleese sitcom is every bit as shite as it sounded when Humpty Dumphries interviewed him about it on the Toady programme the other day.
Was, wasn't it. A great cast wasted.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Pingu on 19 February, 2018, 10:16:42 pm
...Still trying to get to grips with the French legal system though.

According to Spiral it runs on bureaucracy, back-stabbing, incompetence and corruption.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 19 February, 2018, 11:45:37 pm
We are on Collateral. Episode 2 tonight. Shame we can’t binge watch, it’s rather good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Canardly on 20 February, 2018, 09:55:02 am
Started watching La Mante on Netflix. Gripping stuff.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 20 February, 2018, 04:29:53 pm
The Art of Japanese Life on BBC 4 last night and now on iPlayer

It was part 1 last night and it was fantastic. Dr James Fox examining Japanese Arts relationship with nature. Fascinating and some beautiful art such as Tohaku's Pine Trees in fog.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 21 February, 2018, 04:57:36 am
I have an urge to binge-watch Engrenages again, but Miss von Brandenburg says I need to binge-watch Borgen instead.

I gave up halfway season 2 on Borgen.  This is as a Danish expat normally binge-watching anything like that.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 22 February, 2018, 11:18:33 pm
Missed it the first time round, Unforgotten (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unforgotten) is being repeated on ITV3. Good plot captures you from the off, cast like a Who's Who of telly. Should be available on ITV catch up. Worth it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 28 February, 2018, 11:47:03 pm
Save Me, started today on Sky Atlantic with the whole series available to download. Billed as being from the creators of Line Of Duty but no Jed Mercurio involvement as far as I can tell. However, it is written by and stars the superb Lennie James. Also stars Suranne Jones (who I’m ambivalent about but she’s good in this) and Stephen Graham. Plus lots of other stock British actors you’ll recognise.

It’s very good. Complex but not so bonkers that it stretches credibility too far. I would say I’m enjoying it but I’m not sure that’s the right word, given the direction the plot is heading after three episodes...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: orienteer on 01 March, 2018, 10:18:43 am
The Art of Japanese Life on BBC 4 last night and now on iPlayer

It was part 1 last night and it was fantastic. Dr James Fox examining Japanese Arts relationship with nature. Fascinating and some beautiful art such as Tohaku's Pine Trees in fog.

Saw this the first time round. His observations are spot on and deep.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ElyDave on 02 March, 2018, 08:05:02 pm
John Denver documentary on bbc4 right now
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 03 March, 2018, 12:26:08 am
Turns out the new John Cleese sitcom is every bit as shite as it sounded when Humpty Dumphries interviewed him about it on the Toady programme the other day.

Have no urge to watch it as I simply assumed it was, like everything Cleese does now, an attempt to pay his alimony bill.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 07 March, 2018, 11:44:57 am
For those who enjoyed “The Vietnam War” by Ken Burns and Lynn Novak, that was on BBC4 last year, PBS America is showing their take on WW2, entitled “The War”.

Oh, and Memento is on BBC2 tonight.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 08 March, 2018, 10:30:18 am
The other night saw Electric Dreams on Channel 4, the first of 10 stand alone adaptations of Phillip K Dick stories. Episode one was The Hood Maker, a story about a future society where telepaths (teeps) seem to be at odds with the world?

Anyhow, ep1 stars features Richard Madden (Rodd "The King in the North" Stark) and Holliday Grainger (Robin Ellacott- the secretary come trainee private dick in Strike) and I enjoyed it. Looking at the IMDb listings, some big names will feature in future episodes.

Eletric Dreams IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt5711280/?ref_=tt_ov_inf)
So they've finally gotten round to showing the final 3 of these.

Autofac : very very good. :)  :thumbsup:

 Proper modern pacey, clever, witty, stylish SF; a league above the previous episodes (which I thought were mostly watchable but nothing special).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 09 March, 2018, 09:59:46 am
We got our fibre broadband connected yesterday ;D, so it was the first time we'd been able to watch All 4 without the infuriating buffering.  So we came late to the party with The End Of The F***ing World, which was darkly comic and comically dark.  I'm quite sure it's been mentioned upthread, but it's really excellent.  We've only watched 1 20min episode, but looking forward to the next opportunity to catch an instalment.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 11 March, 2018, 10:50:58 am
Two great musical documentaries last night ob BBC4 and now on iPlayer:

Janis: Little Girl Blue

The life of Janis Joplin. Sad very sad. She comes across as a deeply troubled person. But what a voice !

The Joy of Rachmaninoff

Tom Service's documentary on the life and music of the Russian composer. I didn't know much about him so I found this really interesting.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ian on 13 March, 2018, 08:31:55 pm
Binged on the all the Grimms and now there's no more. Oh woes. While conceptually stupid, it was excellent. I, for one, had never realised Portland was so dangerous. No wonder they have such good beer there.

I am being made to watch Star Trek: Discovery now. I mostly don't like Star Trek because of their policy of crewing their ships with space-idiots. Apparently they're flying around the universe on a spaceship powered by fungal spores and navigated by an actual tardigrade.

And that is a sentence even I never thought I'd write.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 13 March, 2018, 09:48:40 pm
Looks up Grimm.
Oh dear.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ian on 14 March, 2018, 09:38:20 am
Trust me (which you should), it's as awesome. Of course, to fit with the more cerebral elements of this group, it's more a philosophical investigation of our internalized animal nature. Why, yes it is. And many throats get ripped out.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Pingu on 14 March, 2018, 08:06:34 pm
FurryBootToon on BBC4 tonight.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ian on 14 March, 2018, 09:40:04 pm
Apparently they're flying around the universe on a spaceship powered by fungal spores and navigated by an actual tardigrade.

I'm just writing this again because I enjoyed writing it so much the first time. Space mushrooms. I think the writers are having a laugh.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 15 March, 2018, 05:07:36 am
Jessica Jones Season 2.  Started of pretty well, but has now dug itself into a pretty big hole (episode 9 now). Tempted to skip an episode or 2.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ian on 15 March, 2018, 09:09:15 am
Jessica Jones Season 2.  Started of pretty well, but has now dug itself into a pretty big hole (episode 9 now). Tempted to skip an episode or 2.

I struggled with the first one tbh. I like the idea and the character but the execution. Firstly, I'm not really sure what her superpower is other than being 'a bit strong.' My wife can arm wrestle me into submission. Second, she spent an entire series trying to get Bad Guy to incriminate himself so the Vulnerable One could get out of her legal pickle. Fine, you may say. The problem was that Bad Guy did have an actual superpower, that being Ultimate Persuasion. So, he'd simply talk his way out of any fate that Jessica set up for him. In other words, he'd have to die. A fact that didn't seem to be recognised until the final episode. It might have worked in the shorter span of a movie, but over many episodes the lack of realisation started to jar. Oh ffs, just kill the git.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 15 March, 2018, 10:35:37 am
Has anyone been watching Mum? BBC sitcom starring Lesley Manville getting used to life after the death of her husband. Also Peter Mullan as husband's best friend.

The first series was on in 2016 and passed me by, but we caught up with it on iplayer ahead of the new series starting a couple of weeks ago. It's interesting. Quite Mike Leigh-ish in lots of ways, but not as good as that makes it sound. All the 'action' is confined to the domestic setting and nothing much happens - they seem to spend most of each episode talking about something they're going to do rather than actually doing it - it's mostly about the relationships and subtexts. There's a strange mix of touching poignancy and rather broad humour - some of the characters are a bit crudely drawn - but it delivers more than the required quota of LOLs so well worth watching. The dead husband's parents are particularly funny.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 15 March, 2018, 01:07:48 pm
Not yet, but I've been meaning to give it a go after Tim Key recommended it

Quote
To illustrate how behind I am with this show, I am recommending the first series even though the second series has just come out and everyone’s losing it about how good it is. Fortunately for me, they’ve popped series one on iPlayer to coincide with these new episodes. It’s a sitcom about a mum (Lesley Manville) keeping a family moving. It’s beautifully written (Stefan Golaszewski), with warm, authentic dialogue and vaguely ridiculous/moving scenarios. You might cry, but it’s also the funniest thing I’ve seen for a long time. And I’ve got nine episodes still in hand.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 15 March, 2018, 04:00:29 pm
Saw one episode a few weeks ago on iPlayer - the one with the birthday and the bootful of presents - and wasn't quite sure if I found it amusing or not.  Most of the  humour is to do with awkwardness (or, in Kelly's case, obliviousness to awkwardness).  I don't think I LOLled and I definitely didn't ROFL, but it's better than a lot of things on TV.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 15 March, 2018, 10:29:47 pm
It's consistently *quite* funny whilst also being very Sunday-tea-n-crumpets "nice" (this is the closest UK gets to Scandi Hygge (sp?!?) ).

The unrequited realtionship between
(click to show/hide)



At the complete opposite end of the comfort<>crazyviolence scale, Homeland continues to entertain. A really different approach to the FBI maverick agenty stuffs cliche  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 16 March, 2018, 09:09:30 am
We got our fibre broadband connected yesterday ;D, so it was the first time we'd been able to watch All 4 without the infuriating buffering.  So we came late to the party with The End Of The F***ing World, which was darkly comic and comically dark.  I'm quite sure it's been mentioned upthread, but it's really excellent.  We've only watched 1 20min episode, but looking forward to the next opportunity to catch an instalment.
Watched ep 3 last night  :o :o
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 19 March, 2018, 07:10:48 am
Jessica Jones Season 2.  Started of pretty well, but has now dug itself into a pretty big hole (episode 9 now). Tempted to skip an episode or 2.

I struggled with the first one tbh. I like the idea and the character but the execution. Firstly, I'm not really sure what her superpower is other than being 'a bit strong.' My wife can arm wrestle me into submission. Second, she spent an entire series trying to get Bad Guy to incriminate himself so the Vulnerable One could get out of her legal pickle. Fine, you may say. The problem was that Bad Guy did have an actual superpower, that being Ultimate Persuasion. So, he'd simply talk his way out of any fate that Jessica set up for him. In other words, he'd have to die. A fact that didn't seem to be recognised until the final episode. It might have worked in the shorter span of a movie, but over many episodes the lack of realisation started to jar. Oh ffs, just kill the git.

I don't necessarily disagree, but I liked both characters and thought that Jessica's super cynical one-liners were pretty good over all.

This series, however, was really poor and the actors are struggling with it as well.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 19 March, 2018, 01:20:04 pm
“The young offenders”, a “Cork lads” version of “Derry girls” sort of.   BBC1 11.25pm

I saw the first 2 or 3.  The gross-out parts were a bit too gross for me, but it was still very funny.  And I caught what I assume was the last in the series yesterday.  The Billy Murphy and the hijacked bus one. I found it very funny throughout, and the one gross-out moment was really quite sweet.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 19 March, 2018, 01:20:43 pm
I commend to the house - for the second time - the ITV series 'Unforgotten'.

The whole first series (2015?) is currently available on catch up and the second is being broadcast on Thursdays at 22:00 on ITV3.

I'm addicted and found it necessary to watch the episodes several times to find the links between the characters. Enjoyable. Like 'No Offence' without the dark humour.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 24 March, 2018, 01:43:34 am
"Better Than The Original" tonight on BBC4. The history of the cover version and its role in popular music, packed with insightful analysis - it's all the better for focusing on ten intelligently chosen classic covers rather than just being a run through of the usual old favourites. Fantastic Friday night telly.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b06n9q8y
(According to this link, it was actually first broadcast in 2015 but I must have missed it)

Worth watching for the contributions from Deborah Evans Strickland of Flying Lizards alone. Absolutely priceless. My favourite two lines of hers, delivered with exquisitely clipped deadpan poshness:
"I expect you're wondering why we did cover versions. I suppose one answer might be there are plenty of good ideas, why bother to have any more?"
"People may wonder why I speak the songs instead of singing them. The answer is really very straightforward. Um... Singing is more difficult."

I don't think I've ever truly appreciated before quite how brilliant their version of Money actually is. It's a masterclass in how a great idea can overcome a lack of talent.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 24 March, 2018, 05:28:53 am
I liked the other guy's comment about assuming she could sing like Tina Turner  ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 24 March, 2018, 08:19:12 am
My sinister agents tell me that the fourth and final series of "The Bridge" is to hit our shores in "May".
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 24 March, 2018, 11:56:28 am
My wife keeps asking me when is the Bridge going to start again. Now I can give her a different answer to “I don’t know.”
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: PeteB99 on 24 March, 2018, 12:28:57 pm
My sinister agents tell me that the fourth and final series of "The Bridge" is to hit our shores in "May".

 :thumbsup:

Anyone been watching the current BBC4 offering set in the Copenhagen subway system?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: LEE on 24 March, 2018, 01:12:42 pm
Ant & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway

It's worth watching just to finally figure out which one is Dec.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 06 April, 2018, 09:57:00 am
The City & The City, adaptation of China Mieville's book starring David Morrissey, starts tonight at 9pm on BBC2. I've been looking forward to this for over two years so it had bloody well better be good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 06 April, 2018, 11:36:50 pm
The City & The City, adaptation of China Mieville's book starring David Morrissey, starts tonight at 9pm on BBC2. I've been looking forward to this for over two years so it had bloody well better be good.
So what did you think?

(How long until someone posts how much stuff they left out  ;D )

I've only read one Mieville book - or rather half of one. How shall I put this; it had a lot of interesting idea. And it wasn't this book.

I'm on the fence about tonight's opener ... I await "expert" reviews ... :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 07 April, 2018, 01:31:31 pm
I know the feeling.  I struggled to reach the end of "Kraken" and Professor Larrington has lent me two more Miévilles, which have been sitting in the kitchen unattended for three months.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 07 April, 2018, 03:53:14 pm
The City & The City, adaptation of China Mieville's book starring David Morrissey, starts tonight at 9pm on BBC2. I've been looking forward to this for over two years so it had bloody well better be good.
So what did you think?

(How long until someone posts how much stuff they left out  ;D )

I've only read one Mieville book - or rather half of one. How shall I put this; it had a lot of interesting idea. And it wasn't this book.

I'm on the fence about tonight's opener ... I await "expert" reviews ... :)

It looks like they've done a good job of interpreting the book and bringing it to life in a reasonably 'naturalistic' way. David Morrissey is good, as ever. Might need to watch the first ep again as I was very tired last night and not really concentrating on it, but it did seem a bit flat, not enough suspense (or is that just because I already know the story and how it ends?).

They seemed to work out the dead girl's identity too quickly, but I suppose that's a necessity when you've only got four episodes to cram everything into.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Cunobelin on 07 April, 2018, 06:08:24 pm
Not truly TV, but Amazon

"David and Olivia - Naked in Scotland"

This is a project by local actors fed up with the traditional routes and recorded this themselves

It shows...

The dialogue is far from smooth and it is a little rough around the edges, however I quite enjoyed it and it is refreshing partly because of this

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: andrewc on 11 April, 2018, 11:41:30 pm
The City & The City, adaptation of China Mieville's book starring David Morrissey, starts tonight at 9pm on BBC2. I've been looking forward to this for over two years so it had bloody well better be good.
So what did you think?

(How long until someone posts how much stuff they left out  :-D )

I've only read one Mieville book - or rather half of one. How shall I put this; it had a lot of interesting idea. And it wasn't this book.

I'm on the fence about tonight's opener ... I await "expert" reviews ... :-)

It looks like they've done a good job of interpreting the book and bringing it to life in a reasonably 'naturalistic' way. David Morrissey is good, as ever. Might need to watch the first ep again as I was very tired last night and not really concentrating on it, but it did seem a bit flat, not enough suspense (or is that just because I already know the story and how it ends?).

They seemed to work out the dead girl's identity too quickly, but I suppose that's a necessity when you've only got four episodes to cram everything into.


I've bought all of Mievilles stuff & enjoyed most of it, but a couple I've abandoned after the first few chapters. 


ISTR enjoying this one, and definitely finished it, but it was a while ago , so I don't remember the finer plot details


What I did enjoy in the first episode was the locations. It was filmed in Liverpools central business district where I work, and most of the exterior shots are very familiar.  I recognise some of the interiors, but guess others are in buildings that I've never been in, or have just been opened for filming.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 25 April, 2018, 06:53:33 pm
After 2 Eps of City and ... I am still totally baffled! But it's intriguing and beatiful, so I shall probably persist for the remaining 2 (?) hours.

Meanwhile, still on the Much Better Than Expected Pile is
Kiss Me First (https://www.telegraph.co.uk/tv/2018/04/02/kiss-first-episode-1-review-teenage-angst-virtual-reality-collide/)

Virtual reality-based, heavily trailed teen drama? Jeez, this will be awful .. won't it?? Well not so far. Although the VR scenes are the least interesting bit.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 25 April, 2018, 07:18:31 pm
My sinister agents tell me that the fourth and final series of "The Bridge" is to hit our shores in "May".

Scandinoir correspondent confirms May 11th.  And it's on BBC2, not BBC4.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 25 April, 2018, 10:21:16 pm
Steph referred to a killer driver in the motorised moron thread. Following the link to the BBC website led to a BBC Wales prog 'The Crash Detectives' and we've just watched the two episodes available on i-Player.

Well put together, just a shame that people had to die to make it so interesting.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 27 April, 2018, 10:21:30 pm
Also a recording, the last episode of “Civilisations”. Some amazing artwork by Anselm Kiefer, Kara Walker and Michal Rovner..
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 28 April, 2018, 12:31:44 am
'Happy'

Possibly one of the best things I've watched in ages. The plot is utterly predictable, but that doesn't prevent it from being enjoyable.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: PeteB99 on 29 April, 2018, 10:30:21 am
My sinister agents tell me that the fourth and final series of "The Bridge" is to hit our shores in "May".

Scandinoir correspondent confirms May 11th.  And it's on BBC2, not BBC4.

Friday night on BBC2.

Do traditions mean nothing to the Beeb?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 04 May, 2018, 09:08:43 am
Secrets of the Super Elements

This was on BBC4 last night, though apparently it was first shown last year, but it's worth watching, especially if you're like me, someone who gave up science after GCSE level, so has a fairly limited understanding of this stuff and needs it to be presented in an accessible format - I mean, I'm sure many of you brainy types are already familiar with the properties of superfluids, but I found some of it pretty mind-blowing...
https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b08rv9r6/secrets-of-the-super-elements

I did find 'Tungsten carbide drills! What the bloody 'ell's tungsten carbide drills?' reverberating around my head a fair bit during it though.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 06 May, 2018, 06:56:25 pm
BBC 4,  Rich Hall on California, 23:30
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 06 May, 2018, 07:17:19 pm
BBC 4,  Rich Hall on California, 23:30
Ooh, ta
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 06 May, 2018, 07:40:22 pm
New! Taskmaster!
Looks like I missed it already but ep 1 is on Dave at 2200 tonight!

Also, looks like little Alex Horne is getting his own series starting the 24th...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 11 May, 2018, 02:25:08 pm
My sinister agents tell me that the fourth and final series of "The Bridge" is to hit our shores in "May".

Scandinoir correspondent confirms May 11th.  And it's on BBC2, not BBC4.

That'll be tonight then. Yay!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Little Jim on 11 May, 2018, 02:33:25 pm
Anyone been watching "Salamander"?  Series 2 is well underway on BBC4 on Saturday nights.  Series 1 was a bit different from the standard cop/detective thriller with the unusual back story told in flash backs.  Series 2 is perhaps a bit more formulaic now that we know the history to the saga but they have tied the two series together quite well, the main problem being that as Series 1 was about 4 years ago I can't remember all the plot lines from that one.  I also enjoy the way it switches between Flemish, French and a bit of English!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 11 May, 2018, 05:22:29 pm
Friday Night Dinner is back

(Ch4 / E4? Thursday nights (!) I think).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 11 May, 2018, 10:03:51 pm
My sinister agents tell me that the fourth and final series of "The Bridge" is to hit our shores in "May".

Scandinoir correspondent confirms May 11th.  And it's on BBC2, not BBC4.

That'll be tonight then. Yay!

So far just about everyone involved is a nutter.  Except Jonas, who's just an arsehole.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 12 May, 2018, 10:22:17 am
I would say Jonas is more a badly written amalgam of arsehole tropes.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: PeteB99 on 12 May, 2018, 10:28:57 am
He's just in there to annoy everyone, he'll eventually do something good/heroic.

So was it the journalist who got knocked on the head or was it his twin brother?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 12 May, 2018, 11:02:01 am
A week too late, I discover that Quest are showing nightly Giro highlights. A bugger I missed the Etna stage. (Yes I know I can watch it in Youtube as well, but I like highlights as opposed to live coverage).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 12 May, 2018, 12:50:10 pm
A week too late, I discover that Quest are showing nightly Giro highlights. A bugger I missed the Etna stage. (Yes I know I can watch it in Youtube as well, but I like highlights as opposed to live coverage).
Doh  :facepalm:

Noted, thanks  :)

(Here's the catchup link - for St6 as it happens - for other people as stupid as me and rafletcher: https://www.questtv.co.uk/video/giro-2018#5782972666001 )
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 12 May, 2018, 01:05:15 pm
He's just in there to annoy everyone, he'll eventually do something good/heroic.

Yes, another trope. One that is clearly being telegraphed by his homophobic clichés - he’ll probably save the refugee’s life in some way.

Quote
So was it the journalist who got knocked on the head or was it his twin brother?

I think it was the twin brother but I’m not at all sure.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 12 May, 2018, 04:31:56 pm
A week too late, I discover that Quest are showing nightly Giro highlights. A bugger I missed the Etna stage. (Yes I know I can watch it in Youtube as well, but I like highlights as opposed to live coverage).
Doh  :facepalm:

Noted, thanks  :)

(Here's the catchup link - for St6 as it happens - for other people as stupid as me and rafletcher: https://www.questtv.co.uk/video/giro-2018#5782972666001 )

Thank you  :thumbsup:
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 13 May, 2018, 10:31:30 pm
Patrick Melrose - based on the novels by Edward St Aubyn, adapted by David Nicholls and starting Benedict Cumberbatch.

Tonight’s first episode was actually based on the second novel, which makes dramatic sense and I thought worked really well. I liked the books a lot but the first is pretty harrowing and may not have been an ideal way to introduce the character on screen.

Benedict Cumberbatch is superb, couldn’t think of anyone more perfect to play the part - although he is strictly about 15-20 years too old for the 20-something Patrick of the second novel. Anyway, he puts in a fine performance, very convincing and very true to the book. The script and his performance certainly capture the tone of the books.

Hugo Weaving is also excellent as his appalling father.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 15 May, 2018, 08:11:09 am
Tonight. C5 9:00pm

Intercity 125 - The train that saved Britain’s Railways.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: madcow on 15 May, 2018, 09:58:25 am
Worthy of a thread on its own in The Pub IMHO.
How innovative it appeared to be then and how long they have lasted.
Almost my entire lifetime of ECML journeys. Still remember the Deltic types that preceded them though.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 16 May, 2018, 07:48:16 am
Worthy of a thread on its own in The Pub IMHO.
How innovative it appeared to be then and how long they have lasted.
Almost my entire lifetime of ECML journeys. Still remember the Deltic types that preceded them though.

I loved the Deltics. What's surprising is that there were only ever 22 Deltics and that they last ran a scheduled service in 1981.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 17 May, 2018, 09:24:38 am
New series of Atlanta started on BBC2 last night. I have to admit that the first series passed me by, and tbh I only started watching it because it was on straight after Newsnight, but I was captivated from the opening scene. Superb. Utterly gripping, funny, smart, sad... Reminded me of Boys From The Blackstuff in its darkly comic tone and sense of despair combined with simmering rage.

I shall be catching up with the first series asap.

ETA: seems it was the first series that started on telly last night, second series isn't over here yet.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: PeteB99 on 19 May, 2018, 09:50:37 am
My sinister agents tell me that the fourth and final series of "The Bridge" is to hit our shores in "May".

Scandinoir correspondent confirms May 11th.  And it's on BBC2, not BBC4.

That'll be tonight then. Yay!

So far just about everyone involved is a nutter.  Except Jonas, who's just an arsehole.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 19 May, 2018, 01:47:09 pm
I made the same observation about the street kids. Almost seems too obvious though - could be a smokescreen.

Mind you, after...
(click to show/hide)
...nothing much would surprise me.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 19 May, 2018, 01:58:42 pm
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: PeteB99 on 19 May, 2018, 03:49:08 pm
The Bridge ep 2

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 19 May, 2018, 06:54:58 pm
A new series of Montalbano begins this evening. A shame they haven’t made more of the Young Montalbano too.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: T42 on 21 May, 2018, 10:43:57 am
Aye, the old one's starting to go brown curl up at the edges. In a just world poor old Fazio would be Questore by now.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 21 May, 2018, 12:01:45 pm
We've now watched the final episode of the Durrells (series 3? ) :( 

Perfect proper Sunday teatime telly  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 21 May, 2018, 09:04:51 pm
Patrick Melrose - based on the novels by Edward St Aubyn, adapted by David Nicholls and starting Benedict Cumberbatch.

Tonight’s first episode was actually based on the second novel, which makes dramatic sense and I thought worked really well. I liked the books a lot but the first is pretty harrowing and may not have been an ideal way to introduce the character on screen.

Benedict Cumberbatch is superb, couldn’t think of anyone more perfect to play the part - although he is strictly about 15-20 years too old for the 20-something Patrick of the second novel. Anyway, he puts in a fine performance, very convincing and very true to the book. The script and his performance certainly capture the tone of the books.

Hugo Weaving is also excellent as his appalling father.

After Ep2, I’ve gone right off Hugo Weaving. I know it’s only acting but... David Melrose is such a thoroughly nasty character that it’s hard to enjoy seeing him portrayed so convincingly.

It’s an exceptionally well made production in every respect. Definitely does the books justice.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: PeteB99 on 02 June, 2018, 04:13:04 pm
The Bridge Ep 4.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 02 June, 2018, 04:18:52 pm
Loads moar killin's :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 04 June, 2018, 11:25:47 pm
Is it wrong to have the dual guilty pleasures of '24 Hours In A&E' and '24 Hours In Police Custody'?

The former because of the fabulous and selfless efforts of the medical staff. The latter just makes me feel so lucky to have been raised right . . .
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 08 June, 2018, 03:44:22 pm
Flowers is back on C4 on Mon, brilliant :)
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2018/jun/08/flowers-mental-health-julian-barratt-channel-4
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: orienteer on 08 June, 2018, 04:00:02 pm
Flowers is back on C4 on Mon, brilliant :)
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2018/jun/08/flowers-mental-health-julian-barratt-channel-4

Great! The Japanese author appears in a minor role.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: PeteB99 on 29 June, 2018, 11:42:38 am
Final episode of the Bridge tonight.

I reckon they both died at the end of series 3 and this has all been an extended dream by the rest of the cast.

Wanna buy a porsche?

http://www.bonhams.com/press_release/26212/ (http://www.bonhams.com/press_release/26212/)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 29 June, 2018, 12:01:12 pm
Interesting theory. There was certainly something a bit "Jacob's Ladder" about...

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 29 June, 2018, 04:36:39 pm
Interesting theory. There was certainly something a bit "Jacob's Ladder" about...

(click to show/hide)

Haven't seen Jacob's Ladder - but surely that was straight out of "Seven"? (in fact the whole theme is quite close to the plot of Seven. But that's OK, it was a good film ... )
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 29 June, 2018, 05:01:50 pm
Haven't seen Jacob's Ladder

Well, perhaps the neatest way to sum it up is that...

(click to show/hide)

But yes, the comparison to Seven is more obvious - shamelessly so.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 30 June, 2018, 01:54:43 am
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: PeteB99 on 30 June, 2018, 10:31:14 am
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrij on 30 June, 2018, 10:39:01 am
I recently started re-watching Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.  Last night, amongst others, I watched the episode Dax which includes one of my favourite lines.
Quote
Renora: This will be an informal hearing, so I'm going to start with some informal advice: I am one hundred years old. I do not have time to squander listening to superfluous language. In short, I intend to be in here until supper, not senility.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob on 04 July, 2018, 01:56:22 am

The last 3 episodes (but not previous ones) the credits have listed someone as 'Body double Saga'. I can't think of why she may have needed one? [/spoiler]

Re-shoots where she wasn't available? More common than you think in film, suspect that TV would do it too.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ElyDave on 13 July, 2018, 10:07:48 pm
BBC 4 Meatloaf doc, Can't beat a bit of BOOH live, at volume
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 16 July, 2018, 09:25:25 pm
Sacha Baron Cohen on C4 by the sounds of it. For fans of Chris Morris' Cake episode.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 29 August, 2018, 02:26:26 pm
The Joy Of Winning (https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b0b9zsfb/the-joy-of-winning) on BBC4 last night.  A bit of cycling too (David Millar talking about doping).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 29 August, 2018, 03:42:24 pm
Sacha Baron Cohen on C4 by the sounds of it. For fans of Chris Morris' Cake episode.

I found that series very hard to watch, but watched all of it, squirming in empathetic embarrassment even at the most awful of his victims. I didn't find much of it what I would call 'funny'.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 09 September, 2018, 02:19:45 pm
Not tonight, but do if you can catch up with “The Mighty Redcar”, brilliant television.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: IanDG on 21 September, 2018, 08:46:35 am
Don't know if it's 'worth watching' - I make my appearance on Britain by Bike tonight ;)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 21 September, 2018, 09:11:43 am
Don't know if it's 'worth watching' - I make my appearance on Britain by Bike tonight ;)

I have setup the tape reels! (8pm Ch5 I hope? )

(The programme after it looks good too - abandoned railway walks. Ep1 whisky )
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 23 September, 2018, 08:56:08 am
Spent the last couple of evenings catching up on Bodyguard. Cracking telly. Very Jed Mercurial - if you like Line Of Duty... He has that knack of making things feel very realistic even while they’re just beyond plausibility.

Final episode tonight. Should be a corker.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 23 September, 2018, 10:24:25 pm
Spent the last couple of evenings catching up on Bodyguard. Cracking telly. Very Jed Mercurial - if you like Line Of Duty... He has that knack of making things feel very realistic even while they’re just beyond plausibility.

Final episode tonight. Should be a corker.

Just watched that and now I'm going to have to download the whole lot and start from the beginning, like I had to with "The Night Manager".
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pumpkin on 24 September, 2018, 09:19:48 am
Don't know if it's 'worth watching' - I make my appearance on Britain by Bike tonight ;)

I have setup the tape reels! (8pm Ch5 I hope? )

(The programme after it looks good too - abandoned railway walks. Ep1 whisky )

An all too brief appearance by you but what a ride that cycleway is  :thumbsup: It was stunning (prob. less so in the wind/rain).The programme is on My5 player via Freeview. The following programme about abandoned railways was excellent. I never knew Lossiemouth looked like that and that there was a beautiful bridge over the Spey that one can cycle over.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 24 September, 2018, 10:04:37 am
Bodyguard... Final episode tonight. Should be a corker.

Well, that all went a bit mental. Not an entirely satisfactory ending but still very enjoyable.

Now to catch up on Killing Eve...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 24 September, 2018, 11:39:51 am
We're just getting through "The Bridge".  My goodness it must be hard playing Saga!!  Should finish that tonight, then there's either "Cardinal" or a cop drama set in Wales that I can't immediately recall the name of (not Hinterland, it's a new one).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 24 September, 2018, 12:36:39 pm
Should finish that tonight, then there's either "Cardinal" or a cop drama set in Wales that I can't immediately recall the name of (not Hinterland, it's a new one).

Cardinal is great. Well worth watching.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 24 September, 2018, 01:55:22 pm
Should finish that tonight, then there's either "Cardinal" or a cop drama set in Wales that I can't immediately recall the name of (not Hinterland, it's a new one).

Cardinal is great. Well worth watching.

We enjoyed the first series, glad to hear the second id up to scratch too.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 24 September, 2018, 07:57:13 pm
...a cop drama set in Wales that I can't immediately recall the name of (not Hinterland, it's a new one).

Hidden?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 24 September, 2018, 08:12:04 pm
...a cop drama set in Wales that I can't immediately recall the name of (not Hinterland, it's a new one).

Hidden?

Yes  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 24 September, 2018, 08:16:13 pm
Should finish that tonight, then there's either "Cardinal" or a cop drama set in Wales that I can't immediately recall the name of (not Hinterland, it's a new one).

Cardinal is great. Well worth watching.

We enjoyed the first series, glad to hear the second id up to scratch too.

Yeah, I really enjoyed it. The main story stays just the right side of the line with regard to plausibility, while also being suitably gruesome. A bit more of Cardinal's backstory is revealed, and Delorme becomes a more developed character, which is good. The plot strand involving his wife also moves along significantly.

Apparently the second series is based on the third novel - don't know why they skipped the second. A third series is already in production, which will be based on the fourth and fifth novels. Might even give the books a go.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 24 September, 2018, 08:17:55 pm
Ah FFS, was that s2 of Cardinal on the BBC? I looked it up and was sure it was s1...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 24 September, 2018, 08:19:21 pm
Ah FFS, was that s2 of Cardinal on the BBC? I looked it up and was sure it was s1...

IIRC they repeated S1 before S2 started.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 24 September, 2018, 08:31:41 pm
They did that deliberately to confuse me, didn't they. No longer available on iPlayer, bah.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 25 September, 2018, 08:00:42 am
I must have missed the replay of seires 1. Anyway I expect S2 will be out on DVD eventually. There appares to be a S3 already filmed, and a S4 commissioned.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 25 September, 2018, 12:03:50 pm
Anyone tried the new Australian offering in the Saturday FOREIGN slot on BBC4?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 25 September, 2018, 12:36:57 pm
No. What can you tempt us with?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: PeteB99 on 25 September, 2018, 01:58:09 pm
Anyone tried the new Australian offering in the Saturday FOREIGN slot on BBC4?

Yep, OK so far.

No. What can you tempt us with?

Aboriginal Detective sent from 'the city' to assist local police investigating a murder/disapearence in a remote outback community.

Side orders of Troubled families, Local politics and a possible land/resources scam.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 25 September, 2018, 03:27:36 pm
In The Heat Of The Night meets Bluey...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Cunobelin on 26 September, 2018, 04:01:37 pm
Bodyguard... Final episode tonight. Should be a corker.

Well, that all went a bit mental. Not an entirely satisfactory ending but still very enjoyable.

Now to catch up on Killing Eve...

This didn't appeal to me at all, until it was recommended by a friend

It reminds be very much of the old avengers, with absurd plot and soundtrack ironically inappropriate to the action.....

However by the first 20 minutes I was hooked!

I don't know why, but I really enjoyed this, and Jodie Comer's amoral character is also somewhat sexy and manages to obtains some sympathy. Sandra Oh is also brilliant.

I loved the whole thing including the plot twists, dark sense of humour and the ending of the series definitely indicates Series 2


Is it Blasphemy to say that I preferred this to the Bodyguard?

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 26 September, 2018, 09:56:30 pm
I loved the whole thing including the plot twists, dark sense of humour and the ending of the series definitely indicates Series 2

Wikipedia entry for Killing Eve:

Quote
Shortly before its premiere [in the US, in April 2018] Killing Eve was renewed for a second season. Filming for the second season started on July 16, 2018. It is set to premiere in Spring 2019.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 27 September, 2018, 08:09:53 am
[Killing Eve] I guess it's pointless moaning at Nuncio, Cunobelin AND wikipedia for spoiler abuse  >:(

:)


Definitely enjoyed the first 2 EPs. I still think it's less than the sum of its parts, thoughbut. The characters are all interesting, but don't *quite* gel.

Nice spot with the New Avengers comparison. I was thinking that the assassin is inspired by Nikita, but with a strong influence from Cumberbatch's version of Sherlock - the slightly comic disregard for the lives of others. Personally I feel no empathy for her, but it's a great character that might grow on me.

(The last really great TV anti-hero I can remember was Dexter. That seems a long time ago now. )


Is it Blasphemy to say that I preferred this to the Bodyguard?
Of course not - you can be wrong without commiting Blasphemy my friend!

(they are very different progs.)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 27 September, 2018, 08:41:38 am
Sorry. I've only seen the first 2 episodes too. I didn't think of it as being a spoiler.  Hmmmm...  I'll just have to watch to the end to find out.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 27 September, 2018, 09:06:15 am
If you know there's going to be another series, it does tend to mitigate some of the dramatic tension in situations of life-threatening peril for the main character(s).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Basil on 27 September, 2018, 11:18:18 am
If you know there's going to be another series, it does tend to mitigate some of the dramatic tension in situations of life-threatening peril for the main character(s).

Bit like watching the snooker highlights (yes, in a different life I did things like that).
1 guy needs 1 frame to win; the other needs 3.  Quick look at my watch to check how long before the end of the program.  5 mins?  OK, the result of this next frame is obvious.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 27 September, 2018, 02:12:00 pm
Or the final ep. of "Bodyguard":

Lt. Col. Larrington (ret.): He's going to get deaded!
Mr Larrington: No.  No, he is not.  There's another thirty minutes to go.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 27 September, 2018, 02:27:28 pm
But unlike Bodyguard ep 3: She can't be dead really, there are still 3 episodes to go.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 27 September, 2018, 04:09:12 pm
Or [redacted]...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 27 September, 2018, 06:46:11 pm
But unlike Bodyguard ep 3: She can't be dead really, there are still 3 episodes to go.

.. and despite a massive media campaign to convince us she MIGHT still be alive, so we really really need to keep watching. [Even the wonderful Sophie Rayworth was complicit - what is the world coming to??  ::-)  ]

They must know what they're doing - 10 million watched the finale!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 28 September, 2018, 09:53:21 pm
Walking Britain's Lost Railways.

Tonight, Sheffield to Manchester via the Woodhead tunnels. On 5 +1 @ 22:00
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Cunobelin on 29 September, 2018, 10:09:24 am
[Killing Eve] I guess it's pointless moaning at Nuncio, Cunobelin AND wikipedia for spoiler abuse  >:(

:)


Definitely enjoyed the first 2 EPs. I still think it's less than the sum of its parts, thoughbut. The characters are all interesting, but don't *quite* gel.

Nice spot with the New Avengers comparison. I was thinking that the assassin is inspired by Nikita, but with a strong influence from Cumberbatch's version of Sherlock - the slightly comic disregard for the lives of others. Personally I feel no empathy for her, but it's a great character that might grow on me.

(The last really great TV anti-hero I can remember was Dexter. That seems a long time ago now. )


Is it Blasphemy to say that I preferred this to the Bodyguard?
Of course not - you can be wrong without commiting Blasphemy my friend!

(they are very different progs.)

My apologies, I tried to be deliberately vague, and not detail anything in the plot

However what has annoyed me, is that for very rarely, I want to read the Luke Jennings novels, but they aren 't easily available, and e-book versions of ii to iv  are not out until next year!


More bizarrely the original Codename Villanelle was a 36 page novella, but is now 225 pages, so a different beast altogether... its it the first 4 in one volume or has it been extended ?

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 29 September, 2018, 01:19:36 pm

...

More bizarrely the original Codename Villanelle was a 36 page novella, but is now 225 pages, so a different beast altogether... its it the first 4 in one volume or has it been extended ?

Google is your friend!

Codename Villanelle - Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Codename_Villanelle
Codename Villanelle is a 2018 fictional thriller novel by British author Luke Jennings. A compilation of four serial e-book novellas published in 2014–2016, ...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Canardly on 29 September, 2018, 02:44:11 pm
Walking Britain's Lost Railways.

Tonight, Sheffield to Manchester via the Woodhead tunnels. On 5 +1 @ 22:00
So the Woodhead line was 20mins faster than the Hope line. Where have I heard that before mmmm?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 06 October, 2018, 12:43:12 pm
...a cop drama set in Wales that I can't immediately recall the name of (not Hinterland, it's a new one).

Hidden?

Yes  :thumbsup:

Well we stuck it out to the end, but despite being from the same team as Hinterland, it wasn’t in our opinion a pitch on it. Maybe 4, 6 at a pinch episodes worth stretched to 8. I’m not sure if they’ll do a second series, but that should be better as it’ll have to revert to more of a police procedural.

Now for Cardinal.

ETA: Which is excellent
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Cunobelin on 08 October, 2018, 06:36:20 am

...

More bizarrely the original Codename Villanelle was a 36 page novella, but is now 225 pages, so a different beast altogether... its it the first 4 in one volume or has it been extended ?

Google is your friend!



Codename Villanelle - Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Codename_Villanelle
Codename Villanelle is a 2018 fictional thriller novel by British author Luke Jennings. A compilation of four serial e-book novellas published in 2014–2016, ...



Thanks, it is the fact that the whole of the new book seems to be more than the original novellas. maybe different print, but there appears to be significantly more pages in the book than just the four novellas

The books are darker than the TV series, and  there are significant differences in the back story
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pumpkin on 10 October, 2018, 09:01:21 am
Found The Adventure Show on iplayer. On Categories/Scotland. it's an outdoors programme and featured some crazy marathon from braemar to Aviemore. Also Ride to the Sun (bet some of you have done it.) A 100 mile night ride carlisle - Edinburgh. It's free, you just turn up, ride (bring your lights etc)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Steph on 12 October, 2018, 02:27:41 pm
Sunday sees the start of 'Butterfly', a drama about a trans girl. Predictably, the bigots on Mumsnet and similar hate fora are in meltdown, and I anticipate an explosion in the press when it is aired.

I hadn't realised that the writer is Tony Marchant, who gave us one of my fave soppy films, 'Different for Girls', which featured Ian Dury.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Cunobelin on 16 October, 2018, 08:22:37 pm
On iPlayer, so technically available tonight

"Our World War" is a series of "Drama Documentaries" on WW1

First dealt with teh first "real day" of the War, the second with Pals battalions, and the "cowardice that we would now diagnose and treat as PTSD, both through the words of the individuals involved

Very brutal, vivid and the unusual thing is the music. Using punk and modern music clashed at first, but does work, and I suspect if it gets the younger generation involved then worth it

Well worth watching, but do be prepared for a difficult watch in places
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Steph on 16 October, 2018, 08:58:44 pm
If that is the series I remember being shown a while ago, the first episode deals with the Mons battle and includes a machine gunner in a Fusilier unit throwing his weapon... spoiler stopped part way through.

If so, yes. Brutal, but compelling.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pumpkin on 06 November, 2018, 09:16:10 am
This month's Adventure Show on BBC Scotland (iplayer) has a big feature on grinduro a road/off road/gravel bike event on Arran.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 11 November, 2018, 09:22:05 am
Is everyone watching Informer? If not, you ruddy well should be, it’s brilliant. Acting, script, story are all top notch.

It seems to have escaped the hype that Bodyguard and Killing Eve have had but is better than both.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 11 November, 2018, 10:52:20 pm
What channel?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 12 November, 2018, 07:34:57 am
What channel?

BBC

Re-watched the first episode yesterday because there were a few things I didn’t quite understand... Ah! Now I see...

it’s one of those series where they feed you bits of information that only become important later. More alert viewers than me will probably do a better job of noticing the “save this one in your memory bank for later” cues.

Also some of the dialogue is a bit clunkier than I noticed first time around but the acting is strong enough to carry it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: ElyDave on 12 November, 2018, 07:43:50 am
Been watching the Little Drummer Girl, another Le Carre adaptation I think?  Starting to ratchet up the tension a bit now.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 12 November, 2018, 09:02:39 am
What channel?

BBC

Re-watched the first episode yesterday because there were a few things I didn’t quite understand... Ah! Now I see...

it’s one of those series where they feed you bits of information that only become important later. More alert viewers than me will probably do a better job of noticing the “save this one in your memory bank for later” cues.

Also some of the dialogue is a bit clunkier than I noticed first time around but the acting is strong enough to carry it.
We watched the first episode last night - you're right, it's very good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 14 November, 2018, 06:59:53 pm
Yes, we watched Informer last night too and liked it, not sure it will make 6 episodes though, we'll see.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 15 November, 2018, 10:00:52 am
The evening news on any channel should be a corker tonight :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 15 November, 2018, 10:36:53 am
Something happening...?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 15 November, 2018, 11:50:13 am
The evening news on any channel should be a corker tonight :)

I'm going to be watching RT...for the lolz
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Danu on 18 November, 2018, 05:43:16 pm
Country file, worth a look tonight
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pumpkin on 19 November, 2018, 11:14:44 am
Documentary on Primal Scream going back to Memphis to revisit the studios where they recorded 'Give Out...
The album was remixed and the original tracks (produced by Tom Dowd) forgotten about then the gtr player found a cassette of the original.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 20 November, 2018, 07:56:26 am
Last night, but will be on iPlayer. Documentary about Billy Monger covering the year after his F4 accident and loss of his legs. Remarkable.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 20 November, 2018, 10:17:00 am
Last night, but will be on iPlayer. Documentary about Billy Monger covering the year after his F4 accident and loss of his legs. Remarkable.
Didn't watch all of that, but the in-car (full speed) footage of his crash is the scariest thing I've ever seen on a racetrack. He had absolutely f-all time to do a thing about that one.

Good luck to him  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nothereforafasttime on 20 November, 2018, 10:42:35 am
Watching Anne Hegarty on I'm a Celebrity and hoping she can put her Asbergers Syndrome to one side and complete the trial she has been set.  Can't be easy.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 20 November, 2018, 07:45:22 pm
Last night, but will be on iPlayer. Documentary about Billy Monger covering the year after his F4 accident and loss of his legs. Remarkable.
Didn't watch all of that, but the in-car (full speed) footage of his crash is the scariest thing I've ever seen on a racetrack. He had absolutely f-all time to do a thing about that one.

Good luck to him  :thumbsup:

It was the most terrifying thing I'd seen too until seeing footage of Sophia Flörsch's F3 crash in Macau on Sunday.  She and Billy Monger raced against each other in Ginetta Juniors a few years ago.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Ham on 22 November, 2018, 06:07:53 pm
Allegedly miss ham is an interviewee on London tonight about the impact of cuts on the NHS to new mothers. Of course, tonight I'm in North Norfolk
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 29 November, 2018, 10:25:00 am
What channel?

BBC

Re-watched the first episode yesterday because there were a few things I didn’t quite understand... Ah! Now I see...

it’s one of those series where they feed you bits of information that only become important later. More alert viewers than me will probably do a better job of noticing the “save this one in your memory bank for later” cues.

Also some of the dialogue is a bit clunkier than I noticed first time around but the acting is strong enough to carry it.
We watched the first episode last night - you're right, it's very good.
Finished last night - wow!  I think I'm going to re-watch the first few mins of the first episode to see if any of the later events are telegraphed.

Better than the over-hyped Bodyguard in my book.  Up there with Killing Eve.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 29 November, 2018, 10:39:47 am
Not tonight (inevitably with me) but Storyville. What a fantastic strand. Documentaries with no voice-overs, just occasional on-screen captions to explain, otherwise cinema verite. The last “Hurt Locker Hero” culled from DVD’s recorded by the main character, an Iranian Kurd “de-miner” in Mosul. The Americans called him “Crazy Fakhir”. The previous was an expose of DuPont (and to a certain extent 3M” regarding the use and disposal of “C8”, a component in the manufacture of Teflon. It’s now in the blood of 97% of Americans. It’s also probably in my and your blood.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pumpkin on 29 November, 2018, 10:50:09 am
The Vikings on BBC4. History of.... with Neil Oliver (actually on last night)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 01 December, 2018, 05:27:56 pm
Tonight, or indeed any night, assuming you have the UKTV “player”. “Brokenwood”, a kind of Kiwi Midsomer Murders I guess you could say, but snappy and engaging.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: bobb on 03 December, 2018, 12:49:58 pm
Watching Anne Hegarty on I'm a Celebrity and hoping she can put her Asbergers Syndrome to one side and complete the trial she has been set.  Can't be easy.
I'm not sure anyone can put Aspergers Syndrome to one side. If you could, you'd no longer have it. I'm amazed she's still in. Maybe it's the cruelty of the people who vote. They just want to see her point blank refuse to do certain parts of trials and starve the rest of camp.

This has been an enjoyable series though. Everyone seems to get along and there's been no major hissy fits. That's one of the reasons I like the show - the nicest people nearly always win....
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 03 December, 2018, 01:14:48 pm
Both my sons have Asperger's. You can't surprise them AT ALL. Everything we do has to be notified in advance and planned. Stuff like going on holiday, we can't just stick a pin in a map, both are extremely nervous if they're not in familiar surroundings. That's why we keep going back to Center Parcs, Eurocamp and central France.

Imagine if you will having to 'sell' a trip to a burger joint to 2 teenagers. Not as extreme as Rain Man but even going to the 'wrong' Pizza Hut or similar can often mean one or the other will refuse to eat. The younger has extremely sensitive hearing (like a cat comes hurtling when he hears a tin opener rattle) which often means he can't stand crowds or loud music etc.

You can no more put Asperger's 'aside' than help a depressed person to 'man up and snap out of it'!

What an insensitive comment.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 03 December, 2018, 01:36:41 pm
What channel?

BBC

Re-watched the first episode yesterday because there were a few things I didn’t quite understand... Ah! Now I see...

it’s one of those series where they feed you bits of information that only become important later. More alert viewers than me will probably do a better job of noticing the “save this one in your memory bank for later” cues.

Also some of the dialogue is a bit clunkier than I noticed first time around but the acting is strong enough to carry it.
We watched the first episode last night - you're right, it's very good.

I thought the last episode was superb.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 16 December, 2018, 10:39:38 pm
Late to the party as ever but intrigued by Berlin Station on Channel 4. CIA spooks in Berlin.
I started Friday night and ended up binge watching the first 6 episodes on All 4.

Plot twists on plot twists and doesn't portray the CIA in a good light. The 'good guys' aren't always the good guys and the 'bad guys' are really devious. Reminded me of The ICRESS File, espionage & counter terrorism isn't glamorous.

The first eight episodes are on All 4 and the last two come up this week, there's just time to catch up
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 26 December, 2018, 09:47:35 pm
We are watching "The ABC Murders".  We do not believe the phrase or saying "vinegar tits" was A Thing in 1933, and Bexhill's De La Warr Pavilion certainly wasn't.

Could do better.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 27 December, 2018, 08:40:21 am
We are watching "The ABC Murders".  We do not believe the phrase or saying "vinegar tits" was A Thing in 1933, and Bexhill's De La Warr Pavilion certainly wasn't.

Could do better.
Ah - we must have been watching a different "ABC Murders"; ours wasn't a documentary about a 1933 serial killer.

Ours was a highly enjoyable fictional period crime drama with the excellent John Malkovich*  :thumbsup:


*Who wasn't alive in 1933. Otherwise I guess we might have thought it was a doc.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: T42 on 27 December, 2018, 10:16:57 am
We are watching "The ABC Murders".  We do not believe the phrase or saying "vinegar tits" was A Thing in 1933, and Bexhill's De La Warr Pavilion certainly wasn't.

Could do better.

Aye well, according to Netflux's Outlaw Prince, Robert the Bruce occasionally said 'OK'.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 27 December, 2018, 02:51:01 pm
Aye well, according to Netflux's Outlaw Prince, Robert the Bruce occasionally said 'OK'.

If you go back that far the language is going to be basically unintelligible to a modern audience, so I'm reasonably happy to overlook such things, as long as they're not too obvious newspeak.  I'll tolerate "OK" as normal and ordinary part of the English language (though presumably older viewers may consider it a conspicuous Americanism), but Robin Hood talking about "human trafficking" in the recent BBC series grated.

(The Deadwood approach of substituting contemporary profanity of context-appropriate severity for what would have otherwise come across as mild/obscure blasphemy deserves honourable mention for effort, though the end result was equally cock-suckingly distracting.  Cocksucker.)


It's the 20th century stuff where this is pure sloppiness which is more jarring.  If it's pre-war Britain[1], you're not allowed to us USAnian car terminology unless the character is actually an American.

Bonus points to anything getting it wrong where cultural difference is part of the story:  A while ago I watched an initially intriguing mini-series a about a generation starship supposedly launched from earth in the 1960s.  The plot hinged on the crew having been out of contact with Earth since the launch, with their culture and technology developing in different directions.  Which made the use of contemporary computer jargon stick out like a sore thumb.  At least until [soilers] made that the least of the problems.


[1] USAnian writers projecting their own culture onto a Britain they have limited experience of is a separate, and even more hilarious, phenomenon.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrij on 27 December, 2018, 08:40:22 pm
...
Bonus points to anything getting it wrong where cultural difference is part of the story:  A while ago I watched an initially intriguing mini-series a about a generation starship supposedly launched from earth in the 1960s.  The plot hinged on the crew having been out of contact with Earth since the launch, with their culture and technology developing in different directions.  Which made the use of contemporary computer jargon stick out like a sore thumb.  At least until [soilers] made that the least of the problems.

Ascension?  If so, I missed the inappropriate jargon when I saw it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 27 December, 2018, 09:32:09 pm
My in-depth research suggests that the origin of the phrase "vinegar tits" was "Prisoner Cell Block H", which makes it doubly grating :demon:

See also "Are we having fun yet?", which apparently came from a "Zippy The Pinhead" cartoon published in 1979.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 27 December, 2018, 09:56:51 pm
My in-depth research suggests that the origin of the phrase "vinegar tits" was "Prisoner Cell Block H", which makes it doubly grating :demon:

That’s hilarious.

I watched about half of the first episode of ABC before deciding I’d seen quite enough, thank you. Load of old tripe.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 27 December, 2018, 10:58:50 pm
...
Bonus points to anything getting it wrong where cultural difference is part of the story:  A while ago I watched an initially intriguing mini-series a about a generation starship supposedly launched from earth in the 1960s.  The plot hinged on the crew having been out of contact with Earth since the launch, with their culture and technology developing in different directions.  Which made the use of contemporary computer jargon stick out like a sore thumb.  At least until [soilers] made that the least of the problems.

Ascension?  If so, I missed the inappropriate jargon when I saw it.

That's the badger.  Repeated use of 'download' for the copying of video recordings to removable media (the nature of which is never made clear), for starters.  I also recall use of 'down' in the some-remote-system-is-not-available sense, though I'm not sure of the etymology of that one - it might have history in radio or aviation that fits.

It also seems conspicuously unlikely that scientists would drop the 'nuclear' from Nuclear Magnetic Resonance in a closed, highly-educated culture that depends on nuclear technology for its very existence.

Anyway, the plot twist ruined it before I got time to be properly annoyed.  :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 27 December, 2018, 11:38:19 pm
Late to the party as ever but intrigued by Berlin Station on Channel 4. CIA spooks in Berlin.
I started Friday night and ended up binge watching the first 6 episodes on All 4.

Plot twists on plot twists and doesn't portray the CIA in a good light. The 'good guys' aren't always the good guys and the 'bad guys' are really devious. Reminded me of The ICRESS File, espionage & counter terrorism isn't glamorous.

The first eight episodes are on All 4 and the last two come up this week, there's just time to catch up

Thanks for this Tors- i'm catching up with it. I have just watched the episode about the fallout form the majorly fucked up operation :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 28 December, 2018, 09:44:45 am
My in-depth research suggests that the origin of the phrase "vinegar tits" was "Prisoner Cell Block H", which makes it doubly grating :demon:

That’s hilarious.

I watched about half of the first episode of ABC before deciding I’d seen quite enough, thank you. Load of old tripe.
What??

And miss out on a possible plethora of historical gaffs?? Surely worth another 2.5 hours of your time!

Here's a starter: the road-signs in "Andover" looked very iffy to me ...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 28 December, 2018, 09:45:24 am
p.s. Episode 2 boiled up nicely - looking forward to tonight.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 28 December, 2018, 10:07:30 am
Poirot and noted dickhead Weasley of the Yard are in a hurry to get to Doncaster from That London for the purposes of Villain Apprehension.  Why, then, did their train cross the Ribblehead Viaduct, unless noted dickhead Weasley of the Yard accidentally led the pair of them onto the Hogwarts Express?

On the plus side, it's got loadsa killin's, but what in the name of dog have they done to poor Tara Fitzgerald?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Exit Stage Left on 28 December, 2018, 10:27:53 am
Poirot and noted dickhead Weasley of the Yard are in a hurry to get to Doncaster from That London for the purposes of Villain Apprehension.  Why, then, did their train cross the Ribblehead Viaduct, unless noted dickhead Weasley of the Yard accidentally led the pair of them onto the Hogwarts Express?



I suppose Ribblehead has the advantages of frequent steam excursions, lack of overhead electric gantries and no contemporary distractions. The Glennfinnan viaduct used in the Harry Potter films has similar advantages, but it's in Scotland, not Yorkshire.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 28 December, 2018, 10:30:36 am
Watched the first episode of Berlin Station. Decided that was enough.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 28 December, 2018, 02:29:08 pm
I suppose Ribblehead has the advantages of frequent steam excursions, lack of overhead electric gantries and no contemporary distractions. The Glennfinnan viaduct used in the Harry Potter films has similar advantages, but it's in Scotland, not Yorkshire.

Ribblehead also has the advantage of being closer to ‘Andover’ (ie Saltaire).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 29 December, 2018, 10:12:55 pm
Black Mirror 'Bandersnatch'

Just brilliant
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 30 December, 2018, 09:41:38 am
Black Mirror 'Bandersnatch'

Just brilliant

I only heard about this yesterday. Sounds great. Will probably watch it tonight.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 30 December, 2018, 11:04:21 am
It took me about 2 hours to go through all the options.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 30 December, 2018, 11:45:07 am
Is that on Sky?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 30 December, 2018, 05:25:34 pm
Think it might be Netflix but don't quote me...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 30 December, 2018, 05:27:27 pm
Is that on Sky?

Netflix. I understand it doesn't work on some devices, eg Apple TV and Chromecast. We get Netflix through the PS3 and I'm not sure it will work on that either. Only one way to find out...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 31 December, 2018, 04:37:39 pm
Just watched 'Bros, when the screaming stops on iPlayer.

Quite interesting, but by the end of it I was just waiting for them to start fucking each other on stage.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 01 January, 2019, 11:44:48 am
Watched Bandersnatch last night. It is superb. Didn’t go through all the permutations but ‘Netflix’ was a definite highlight (laugh out loud funny), and I chose the path that took me to the ‘O Superman’ ending, which is heartbreaking.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: T42 on 01 January, 2019, 01:57:19 pm
I'll maybe give it another go.  I tried it yesterday and found it boring.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 07 January, 2019, 12:27:08 am
Has Luther 'Jumped The Shark'?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 07 January, 2019, 09:32:31 am
Has Luther 'Jumped The Shark'?

I thought that happened in series 3 when Alice came back.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jakob W on 07 January, 2019, 11:01:19 am
I'd never watched Luther, and had only watched season 1 before the current one. I enjoyed the first two episodes of this season, but after that it went off the rails for me - stuff seemed to be happening arbitrarily to move the plot along rather than having any kind of consistency. Of course this means that they will probably try for another season, perhaps starting with Alice back from the dead again and busting Luther out of jail?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 07 January, 2019, 11:31:58 am
Of course this means that they will probably try for another season

IIRC they said there weren't going to be any more after series 4, but then Netflix picked it up and it proved very popular so now there's a financial incentive to keep it going.

To be fair, Luther has always been pretty ludicrous, but that's half the fun of it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 07 January, 2019, 01:51:25 pm
I must be a really hopeless case. Manhunt last night on ITV1 was really enjoyable, despite being about the hunt for Levi Belfield. Martin Clunes always came across as the affable buffoon from MBH and as a result I avoided his stuff.

This is different. Part 2 tonight at 21:00
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 09 January, 2019, 09:42:58 pm
Seconded.  We're 2 episodes through on ITV player.  It's very watchable.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 11 January, 2019, 10:05:31 pm
Sorry for this being after the fact. Stewart Copeland on Drums, BBC4. Well worth a watch on iPlayer...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 14 January, 2019, 03:13:30 pm
And nest week it's Tina Weymouth on Bass.  I think there's a guitar one too.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 14 January, 2019, 09:48:04 pm
And nest week it's Tina Weymouth on Bass.  I think there's a guitar one too.

Thanks for the heads up. That one will definitely be worth watching.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 20 January, 2019, 01:13:54 pm
And nest week it's Tina Weymouth on Bass.  I think there's a guitar one too.

Thanks for the heads up. That one will definitely be worth watching.

It is. Herbie Flowers on the overdub for the baseline on Walk on the wild side was a revelation and strangely moving.
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 20 January, 2019, 04:40:21 pm
Yep, really good. I’d never even heard of Carol Kaye before so that bit was educational. And Herbie Flowers talking about Walk On The Wild Side was indeed quite moving.

Loved the story about how the Marcels came to record Blue Moon as well.

The only disappointment was that because Tina Weymouth was presenting it, there wasn’t enough of her actual playing.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 20 January, 2019, 06:03:18 pm

The only disappointment was that because Tina Weymouth was presenting it, there wasn’t enough of her actual playing.
They probably learnt that lesson with Stuart Copeland.  ;D

Who - being sherious - did a good job on his episode. He actually let people talk, and got interesting stuff out of them.

[I've NEVER listened to drumming properly, so perhaps I have a tin ear for these things? But I think they could have laboured the basics a bit more, just to ... err "drum in" the key concepts e.g. which IS the backbeat?? etc. I still learned a lot, mind :)
Enough to want to watch Whiplash one day ...]

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 20 January, 2019, 08:14:36 pm
[I've NEVER listened to drumming properly, so perhaps I have a tin ear for these things? But I think they could have laboured the basics a bit more, just to ... err "drum in" the key concepts e.g. which IS the backbeat?? etc. I still learned a lot, mind :)

Agreed.

Also disappointed that it pretty much ended with New Order, as if nothing interesting happened musically after that (by contrast the bass one took us right up to Dizzee Rascal).

Did like the bit about the dude who invented the bass drum pedal though.

I would have liked to hear more of Tina's playing simply because she is responsible for some of my all-time favourite bass lines*, but that said, one of the most interesting things about her programme for me was finding out more about the people who influenced her, such as James Jamerson.

*eg:
https://youtu.be/ZXzDh1Q1JsM
https://youtu.be/5IsSpAOD6K8
https://youtu.be/_3eC35LoF4U
and of course: https://youtu.be/jzIuZ-mrIL0
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 20 January, 2019, 09:33:02 pm

The only disappointment was that because Tina Weymouth was presenting it, there wasn’t enough of her actual playing.
They probably learnt that lesson with Stuart Copeland.  ;D

Who - being sherious - did a good job on his episode. He actually let people talk, and got interesting stuff out of them.

[I've NEVER listened to drumming properly, so perhaps I have a tin ear for these things? But I think they could have laboured the basics a bit more, just to ... err "drum in" the key concepts e.g. which IS the backbeat?? etc. I still learned a lot, mind :)
Enough to want to watch Whiplash one day ...]

Try listening to Led Zepplin, when I was younger I thought they were all about Plant and Page but actuaĺly its the rythem section that made them so interesting.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 20 January, 2019, 09:47:02 pm
Yep, one of my faves for rhythm is Trampled Underfoot.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 21 January, 2019, 12:38:51 am
We've had drums and bass yet no one has mentioned Fleetwood Mac.

50 years under the radar...?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 21 January, 2019, 08:11:43 am
We've had drums and bass yet no one has mentioned Fleetwood Mac.

IIRC there was a brief clip of The Chain in the bass ep.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 21 January, 2019, 11:33:25 am
I'll have to watch it again.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 22 January, 2019, 07:23:54 pm
Has anyone mentioned Tin Star??

Tim Roth showing just how amazing he is, if given a decent script.

(but shame on the relevant TV companies - running trailers for SERIES TWO during ad-breaks???  :facepalm: Oh my daze ... )
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 23 January, 2019, 10:02:32 am
And nest week it's Tina Weymouth on Bass.  I think there's a guitar one too.

Guitar one to be presented by Lenny Kaye who, apart from playing with Patti Smith, also compiled the indispensible garage rock, er, compiliation "Nuggets".

I found the bass one a bit flat for no reason that I can really put my finger on (except for, perhaps, its utter failure to mention Lemmy).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 23 January, 2019, 10:33:02 am
I found the bass one a bit flat for no reason that I can really put my finger on (except for, perhaps, its utter failure to mention Lemmy).

And why would it ? The point of this series is follow the development of each instrument in popular music not to be a "famous drum breaks" or "my favourite baseline" compilation. It's the same reason "The Chain" didn't get mentioned. I love Lemmy but his bass playing didn't break new ground nor was it the nest example of a genre. As he oft repeated himself Motorhead just play rock and roll - loud (and it was f**king loud, several Motorhead Concerts in the 80s left me with ringing ears for days, wouldn't be allowed now).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 26 January, 2019, 11:54:43 pm
Enjoyed the Bass with Tina Weymouth. Bootsy Collins was quite bonkers. Also enjoyed James Jamerson.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 20 February, 2019, 12:10:37 pm
Baptiste.  I'm not going to do any spoilers, but it's very good so far.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 20 February, 2019, 12:33:32 pm
If you like your motor racing, this is worth a catch-up on iPlayer.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0002p1x/williams-formula-1-in-the-blood
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 20 February, 2019, 12:54:57 pm
If you like you're motor racing, this is worth a catch-up on iPlayer.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0002p1x/williams-formula-1-in-the-blood

This Unit hereby endorses this product, service or sentiment.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pumpkin on 20 February, 2019, 01:55:28 pm
The Defiant Ones on iplayer. Story of Dr.Dre/Jimmy Iovine and how they became billionaires (literally). I am not a rap music fan but could see how Dre had an ability and once in with NWA his career took off. But of course there are guns/drugs/girls/car crashes along the way as well as lawyers and music biz shenanigans. Luckily Iovine/Dre are kindred spirits and Iovine can talk the talk.

Also the Michael Portillo Railway Journeys. It pains me to like this as I dont like him but he keeps his chatter low key and goes to some interesting places. Currently the series has gone from Ireland to West Coast of Scotland and some stunning scenery.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 20 February, 2019, 02:30:35 pm
Also current iPlayer fodder is Michael Portillo on the railways and personnel of WWI.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 21 February, 2019, 08:17:27 am
If you like you're motor racing, this is worth a catch-up on iPlayer.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0002p1x/williams-formula-1-in-the-blood

This Unit hereby endorses this product, service or sentiment.

Thirded.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 21 February, 2019, 08:20:40 am
If you like you're motor racing, this is worth a catch-up on iPlayer.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0002p1x/williams-formula-1-in-the-blood

This Unit hereby endorses this product, service or sentiment.

Thirded.

Fourthed. It's good even if your not a motor racing fan just as the story of some very complex family relationships.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pumpkin on 25 February, 2019, 12:50:33 pm
Yep, one of my faves for rhythm is Trampled Underfoot.

But then there is the majesty of Kashmir or the drum fest of In My Time of Dying from the Physical Graffiti album. For me they were the rythym section par excellence.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jurek on 26 February, 2019, 10:55:39 am
If you like you're motor racing, this is worth a catch-up on iPlayer.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0002p1x/williams-formula-1-in-the-blood

This Unit hereby endorses this product, service or sentiment.

Thirded.

Fourthed. It's good even if your not a motor racing fan just as the story of some very complex family relationships.

Fifth.
Totally excellent and very moving.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 26 February, 2019, 01:20:03 pm
Derry Girls series 2, March 5th 21:15  Channel 4.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 26 February, 2019, 02:09:39 pm
Woop!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 27 February, 2019, 01:14:10 pm
The new BBC Scotland channel will be showing Tutti Frutti from next Saturday - cracking drama from 1987 that brought Robbie Coltrane, Emma Thompson and Richard Wilson to mainstream prominence. I remember it being very good but don't recall any details about it at all.

Fingers crossed they will be using that slot for further repeats of classic Scottish-based TV series - Hamish Macbeth, The Crow Road, Supergran...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Basil on 28 February, 2019, 10:11:20 pm
I've seen a few sciencey programmes presented by Prof Alice Roberts and generally enjoyed them, so when I  saw that bbc4 were showing something called 'Wild Swimming with Alice Roberts' I thought it odd but maybe worth a look.
Not a sciencey program, but wonderfully enjoyable.

Bound to be on iPlayer now.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: T42 on 01 March, 2019, 09:17:57 am
Anyone who has watched the 2nd series of Suburra:

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 01 March, 2019, 09:52:53 am
I've seen a few sciencey programmes presented by Prof Alice Roberts and generally enjoyed them, so when I  saw that bbc4 were showing something called 'Wild Swimming with Alice Roberts' I thought it odd but maybe worth a look.
Not a sciencey program, but wonderfully enjoyable.
I got goose-bumps watching that.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 03 March, 2019, 10:58:08 am
Well not until April, but Killing Eve series 2.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: paddyirish on 05 March, 2019, 11:20:33 am
Looking forward to Killing Eve Series 2.

Really enjoying Trapped Series 2- Mrs paddy spent 6 months in Iceland in the 90s and we have been back loads since -  really captures the mood of the place.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 March, 2019, 12:52:10 pm
The jury on the Scandinoir Farcebok froup wot I am in is still out on Trapped v2.0.  Half of them reckon it a Rubbish while the ones who are right think it's triff, even if the protagonists are not actually trapped this time.  I watched episodes 1-6 back to back the other day and am engrossed.  The vicar did it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 08 March, 2019, 01:11:42 pm
So: Home the Syrian-Asylum-seeker-stays-with-idiot-Brit comedy

Very very good so far.  :thumbsup:

(I can't believe anyone didn't enjoy Fleabag S2Ep1. I didn't watch any of S1, but this was nothing like what I'd read. Hope I'm not in for a disappointing rest of the series! Much clevererer and funnier than Killing Eve. The "twist" toward the end was a masterstroke.)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 08 March, 2019, 03:34:05 pm
It was a couple of nights ago, but worth a catch-up on iPlayer. Travelling Blind. Brilliant telly, and quite life affirming.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 08 March, 2019, 04:41:55 pm
(I can't believe anyone didn't enjoy Fleabag S2Ep1. I didn't watch any of S1, but this was nothing like what I'd read. Hope I'm not in for a disappointing rest of the series! Much clevererer and funnier than Killing Eve. The "twist" toward the end was a masterstroke.)

I want to catch up with S1 before starting S2 but haven't got round to it yet.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 08 March, 2019, 09:39:44 pm
Watched Fleabag tonight, was good. Also watched Jerk which I think was on the same night, was ok.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: PeteB99 on 09 March, 2019, 11:50:53 am
The jury on the Scandinoir Farcebok froup wot I am in is still out on Trapped v2.0.  Half of them reckon it a Rubbish while the ones who are right think it's triff, even if the protagonists are not actually trapped this time.  I watched episodes 1-6 back to back the other day and am engrossed.  The vicar did it.

Interesting that the lake allegedly being poisoned by the Aluminium smelter seems to be quite a way above the plant. My understanding of toxic waste management is that you pump it downhill into a convenient bit of sea and then blame the deaths on someone else.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 09 March, 2019, 12:21:21 pm
Did anyone watch MotherFatherSon? My wife made me sit through it, she seemed to enjoy it, but I thought it was dreadful - boringly slow, lame dialogue, and a bizarre and surprisingly graphic* sex scene, the dramatic function of which was, I'm guessing, to provide an insight into the messed up psyche of the Son, but it was so preposterously bad that I didn't know whether to laugh or cringe. And then it was followed by...

(click to show/hide)

It's from the same writer as London Spy, which I also found ridiculous, but those who enjoyed that might find more merit in MotherFatherSon than I did.


*surprising because this was on the BBC, not HBO
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 09 March, 2019, 04:54:49 pm
Not worth watching.
The River, a Norwegian thing on Walter Presents /All 4.
I've watched it so you didn't have to.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 10 March, 2019, 10:00:16 pm
Travelling Blind. BBC 2.
Comedian Sara Pascoe and a blind traveller go on holiday. I'd describe myself as a bit like her, a bit of an anxious traveller. Really good program, he totally got her out of her comfort zone.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 11 March, 2019, 08:44:52 am
Also on a travelling theme: Race Across The World.  Five pairs have their mobile devices taken away from them, and are given limited funds to get from London to Singapore (via a couple of intermediate checkpoints) over land and sea (any means other than flying, really).  Highly entertaining.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 12 March, 2019, 08:36:41 pm
“Arcadia”, a montage of found footage. Bonkers and enthralling. Was on BBC4 I think, now on iPlayer.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 12 March, 2019, 10:18:07 pm
Did anyone watch MotherFatherSon? My wife made me sit through it, she seemed to enjoy it, but I thought it was dreadful...

Saw the trailer for the second episode. I don’t think a hearty guffaw was the effect they were after...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 13 March, 2019, 11:14:27 am
Cheat

Meh.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: PeteB99 on 15 March, 2019, 02:16:36 pm
Christy Moore concert on BBC4 tonight
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 15 March, 2019, 10:39:11 pm
Christy Moore concert on BBC4 tonight
There's a man who can make me laugh and cry, sometimes both at the same time.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 22 March, 2019, 11:18:34 am
Another that we only watched last night, but recorded a few days ago, a Storyville "The Internet's Dirtiest Secrets - The Cleaners"

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p072bdyr

Thought provoking, when you hear that the "Burning Girl" photograph would not be permitted to be seen on Facebook / Google if it were uploaded today. And the contrast between banning of ISIS videos, and those criticising Erdogan.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 22 March, 2019, 03:41:41 pm
We watched that too. Interesting.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: telstarbox on 30 March, 2019, 09:37:40 am
BBC Four had an excellent three-part documentary this week about the Peter Sutcliffe murders. Very interesting with lots of interviews, also depressing to see the casual sexism and classism in the police investigation.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 31 March, 2019, 11:32:14 am
New Line Of Duty tonight.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: StuAff on 31 March, 2019, 10:25:31 pm
New Line Of Duty tonight.
That was rather awesome.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 01 April, 2019, 12:15:45 am
Don't know if it's 'worth watching' - I make my appearance on Britain by Bike tonight ;)
Finally saw this  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Riggers on 01 April, 2019, 01:44:13 pm
Perhaps it's a morbid sense of humour, talking of Line of Duty, but it would be strange/funny to see the chap who played the PM's bodyguard, to make a cameo role (in character) in Line of Duty. I'm sure it could be worked in without seeming contrived.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Feanor on 01 April, 2019, 08:22:41 pm
"Audax" was just the answer to a question on University Challenge!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Phil W on 01 April, 2019, 08:26:03 pm
"Audax" was just the answer to a question on University Challenge!

Yes, the percentage of questions I could answer just leapt somewhat higher
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: telstarbox on 02 April, 2019, 08:33:56 am
Another interesting one on BBC Four about a discipline mainly associated with bearded men in historic clothing, but now trying to move with the times. Not in fact Audax UK but the Morris Ring. Nice to clock Thaxted halfway through!

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0003vhz/for-folks-sake-morris-dancing-and-me
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Woofage on 03 April, 2019, 03:32:31 pm
"Audax" was just the answer to a question on University Challenge!

I saw that too. The other two bonus question answers were cyclo-cross and Madison.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 03 April, 2019, 03:38:16 pm
I was impressed with the chap who got the right answer - clearly more through his knowledge of Latin than his knowledge of cycling. He seemed surprised.

The second one I would have interrupted and said "Criterium" but then he started going on about shouldering your bike up steps etc.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: telstarbox on 09 April, 2019, 06:11:22 pm
Is DS Corbett bent?
Title: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 09 April, 2019, 06:50:19 pm
Is DS Corbett bent?

I’m thinking this one needs a thread of its own...

https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=111607.0
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 11 April, 2019, 12:52:21 pm
Derry Girls, Fleabag and Home all finished their runs this week, with Fleabag never to return  :'( (though I did find Derry Girls disappointing this time). At least there's a new series of Veep on the go. Any other good comedies I should be aware of? Are we ever going to get a second series of The Young Offenders?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 12 April, 2019, 10:39:05 pm
I watched the last Fleabag (excellent), read this article on the Hot Priest https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2019/apr/10/how-should-we-feel-about-andrew-scott-priest-fleabag
And was reminded what a crush I had on Anna in This Life :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Pingu on 12 April, 2019, 11:11:20 pm
...At least there's a new series of Veep* on the go...

The last one  :(






*Oi, Drumpf, it's satyr, not a frikkin' manual  ::-)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 13 April, 2019, 03:24:29 pm
I watched the last Fleabag (excellent), read this article on the Hot Priest https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2019/apr/10/how-should-we-feel-about-andrew-scott-priest-fleabag
And was reminded what a crush I had on Anna in This Life :)

I shall mourn Fleabag's passing - at least I have the first series to catch-up on some day :)

Re: the Guardian article - who-the-feck does she think she is telling people who they should or shouldn't fancy. Utter tripe.
My _personal_ opinion about the priest is that he was convincingly conflicted - as was Fleabag. Neither was doing the right thing. Or a right thing. Or a wrong thing. Such is life. And it made for some cracking scenes - some funny, some heart-string-pulling  :thumbsup:
Great wedding speech too!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 16 April, 2019, 09:27:18 pm
There was just a trailer on BBC4 for the new season of Cardinal. Didn't say exactly when though.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 17 April, 2019, 07:40:48 am
There was just a trailer on BBC4 for the new season of Cardinal.

Yay!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 24 April, 2019, 12:47:20 pm
Well not until April, but Killing Eve series 2.

Not before May 26th now, as that's the date of the final episode broadcast in the US>
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 24 April, 2019, 12:50:04 pm
There was just a trailer on BBC4 for the new season of Cardinal.

Yay!

Might be a while before we see it, as it only broadcast in Canada in March 2019.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 25 April, 2019, 10:14:15 pm
The Fantastic Mr Feynman on BBC4 now. About everyone's favourite bongo playing Nobel prize winner.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 26 April, 2019, 08:11:48 am
New Line Of Duty tonight.
Having missed out on Line Of Duty first time around, Mrs Legs and I are bingeing from S1Ep1 at a rate of about one per night.  Isn't it great?  :D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Jaded on 26 April, 2019, 08:25:46 am
We’ve been doing that too. Quite good TV!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 26 April, 2019, 10:27:17 am
The Fantastic Mr Feynman on BBC4 now. About everyone's favourite bongo playing Nobel prize winner.

 :thumbsup:


(not a very long list though, is it??)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 26 April, 2019, 10:31:20 am
The Fantastic Mr Feynman on BBC4 now. About everyone's favourite bongo playing Nobel prize winner.

That was really good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: IanDG on 26 April, 2019, 08:33:46 pm
John Lee Hooker - The Boogie Man BBC4 @ 9pm
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 26 April, 2019, 11:40:31 pm
The Fantastic Mr Feynman on BBC4 now. About everyone's favourite bongo playing Nobel prize winner.

That was really good.

I watched it on catch up. Very good :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 27 April, 2019, 11:14:43 am
John Lee Hooker - The Boogie Man BBC4 @ 9pm
Ooh. I'll get get_iplayer on the casd.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 27 April, 2019, 01:02:17 pm
John Lee Hooker - The Boogie Man BBC4 @ 9pm
Ooh. I'll get get_iplayer on the casd.

This ^^^^.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 27 April, 2019, 01:06:55 pm
get_iplayer is still working? I kinda assumed the Beeb had killed it off, but I haven't checked for a few years.

[I can spend waste a lot of time just listening to legal BBC podcast downloads, but obviously that has limits ... ]
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 28 April, 2019, 01:03:32 pm
get_iplayer is still working? I kinda assumed the Beeb had killed it off, but I haven't checked for a few years.

[I can spend waste a lot of time just listening to legal BBC podcast downloads, but obviously that has limits ... ]

Yes, I downloaded the JLH programme yesterday.  I think it contains the first actual footage of Blind Owl and The Bear I've seen :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 05 May, 2019, 09:04:14 am
There was just a trailer on BBC4 for the new season of Cardinal. Didn't say exactly when though.

It’s on next Saturday, 9pm BBC4.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 05 May, 2019, 12:38:05 pm
Paul Heaton:  from Hull to Heatongrad

https://www.channel4.com/programmes/paul-heaton-from-hull-to-heatongrad

is highly recommended. I had lamentably forgotten what a talented fellow he is.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 06 May, 2019, 01:08:19 pm
Documentary on Ginger Baker, "Beware of Mr Baker" on  BBC 4 last night and presumably on iPlayer. Interesting life. Great drummer but it seems not a nice man. It was made in 2012 by the way.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 06 May, 2019, 01:54:29 pm
Documentary on Ginger Baker, "Beware of Mr Baker" on  BBC 4 last night and presumably on iPlayer. Interesting life. Great drummer but it seems not a nice man. It was made in 2012 by the way.

Saw that last time round, or possibly the time before that.  Definitely a miserable git of the first order but not a bad skin-basher.  I had the privet hedge of seeing him in action while he was in Hawkwind (where he managed to fall out with mild-mannered bassist Harvey Bainbridge).
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 06 May, 2019, 06:56:46 pm
Taskmaster starts on the 8th.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 06 May, 2019, 08:07:06 pm
Giro d’Italia highlights on Quest, starting 10pm next Saturday.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 09 May, 2019, 02:56:53 pm
Taskmaster starts on the 8th.

The usual good-natured silliness. I didn't quite warm to the 'contestants' as much as in Taskmasters 1-7, but they'll probably grow on me over time. And I still found most of it very funny.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pumpkin on 10 May, 2019, 09:30:36 am
The Adventure Show on IPlayer/Scotland. Features a landscape photographer. Some stunning images.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 10 May, 2019, 01:44:57 pm
Anyone seen the Sky Atlantic/HBO 'Chernobyl'? I suppose you'll need Dingovision but it might be around on one of the streaming services.

First episode was Tuesday last. The only actor I've recognised is Paul Ritter, who plays the guy in charge of the 'safety test'. If you ever want to see a masterclass in portraying denial, this is it.

Chilling. In fact I'd go so far as to say horrifying. Required viewing.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: caerau on 10 May, 2019, 02:26:15 pm
Yeah we watched that last night.  Very good and as you say, chilling.  Alexander Skaarsgard will make an appearance at some point.  (unless he was in it last night - I don't think so)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Torslanda on 16 May, 2019, 04:19:50 pm
The last 30 seconds of episode 2 are truly terrifying.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 16 May, 2019, 06:40:24 pm
Third (and final) series of Mum started last night. Anyone who hasn't seen the first two series should catch up on iPlayer. I can't sum up its appeal any better than this review, which gets it absolutely spot on for me (caveat - it's a bit spoilery):
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2019/may/15/mum-review-bbc-two-lesley-manville-peter-mullan

Also, for those who didn't see the Patrick Melrose mini-series last year, it's blindingly good telly, and well deserving of the two baftas it picked up this week. Unfortunate that it went a bit under the radar through being on Sky One rather than network telly, but well worth making the effort to seek out. I loved the books, and the TV adaptation actually does them justice - a rare feat indeed.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: andyoxon on 20 May, 2019, 09:12:46 pm
Free Solo.  Thurs (23rd) 9pm Ch4. Won best documentary at the Oscars this year.   https://www.radiotimes.com/film/gznwqp/free-solo/

Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Thor on 22 May, 2019, 12:46:59 pm
Third (and final) series of Mum started last night. Anyone who hasn't seen the first two series should catch up on iPlayer. I can't sum up its appeal any better than this review, which gets it absolutely spot on for me (caveat - it's a bit spoilery):
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2019/may/15/mum-review-bbc-two-lesley-manville-peter-mullan

+1  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 29 May, 2019, 05:33:54 pm
Good Omens starts on Amazon Prime on Friday :)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 29 May, 2019, 09:56:03 pm
Free Solo.  Thurs (23rd) 9pm Ch4. Won best documentary at the Oscars this year.   https://www.radiotimes.com/film/gznwqp/free-solo/

That was scary to watch.  He dances to a different tune, doesn't he.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 31 May, 2019, 12:01:10 pm
Good Omens starts on Amazon Prime on Friday :)
Not getting a fantastic review in the Guardian today....
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 31 May, 2019, 12:29:36 pm
Good Omens starts on Amazon Prime on Friday :)
Not getting a fantastic review in the Guardian today....

Miss von Brandenburg has been consistently refusing to watch it ever since the project was announced, and doubly so since David Tennant, great ham that he be, was confirmed in the part of Crowley.  I revisited the wireless series recently, which was a Thing of Splendid.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 05 June, 2019, 10:33:21 pm
Ronin on ITV4. Now. Top de Niro action. With French accents.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fuzzy on 05 June, 2019, 10:49:01 pm
Watched the end of Chernobyl tonight. A truly fantastic series about frightning events and mind numbing attitudes.

If this doesn't get awards, there is no justice in the industry.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: pcolbeck on 06 June, 2019, 07:19:25 am
Ronin on ITV4. Now. Top de Niro action. With French accents.

That's one of my favourite films!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Nuncio on 06 June, 2019, 12:39:58 pm
Watched the end of Chernobyl tonight. A truly fantastic series about frightning events and mind numbing attitudes.
Agreed.

For those of you, like me, who want to know, amongst other things, how much was 'real' and how much was dramatic licence, there is a series of 5 podcasts (to accompany the 5 episodes) where the writer/creator Craig Mazin is interviewed.

YouTube link here, or downloadable from your favourite etc etc.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUeHPCYtWYQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUeHPCYtWYQ)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: spesh on 06 June, 2019, 01:50:34 pm
Watched the end of Chernobyl tonight. A truly fantastic series about frightning events and mind numbing attitudes.
Agreed.

For those of you, like me, who want to know, amongst other things, how much was 'real' and how much was dramatic licence, there is a series of 5 podcasts (to accompany the 5 episodes) where the writer/creator Craig Mazin is interviewed.

YouTube link here, or downloadable from your favourite etc etc.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUeHPCYtWYQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUeHPCYtWYQ)

Craig Mazin posted a couple of threads to his Twitter feed on useful background reading and viewing material:

Bibiography thread: https://twitter.com/clmazin/status/1135766541843066880

Filmography thread: https://twitter.com/clmazin/status/1135800424173252610

The scripts can be found at the following link, though Mazin says it's best if you don't read them until after you have watched the show:

https://johnaugust.com/library
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 06 June, 2019, 09:07:40 pm
Saturday BBC 1 21:15. Killing Eve series 2  :D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 06 June, 2019, 09:16:51 pm
I'm nervous. I hope they haven't ruined it.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 06 June, 2019, 09:19:40 pm
I reckon the first series, while brilliant, was about two episodes too long, so I have relatively low expectations for the second.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 07 June, 2019, 06:05:56 am
Last Breath on iPlayer at the moment.  Quietly gripping and terrifying.  Like all of the Storyville productions, it's brilliant television.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: citoyen on 07 June, 2019, 08:46:26 am
Watched the end of Chernobyl tonight. A truly fantastic series about frightning events and mind numbing attitudes.

So that's you lot here going on about Chernobyl, everyone in the pub on Wednesday going on about Chernobyl, and m'colleagues also going on about Chernobyl at work yesterday...

Probably better watch it, hadn't I?

#FOMO
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Kim on 07 June, 2019, 02:37:23 pm
I watched the first three parts of it last night.  Spectacular piece of television, if difficult to watch in places.  It's not quite Threads for the noughties, but the comparison is reasonable.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Auntie Helen on 07 June, 2019, 07:55:01 pm
I would love to see Chernobyl as the reviews are great, but I have no idea how to. I’m living in Germany and have Amazon Prime but it’s not on that. Maybe they will release it on DVD sometime, I think I have a DVD player in a drawer somewhere.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Hot Flatus on 07 June, 2019, 10:31:02 pm
Watched the first episode of the new Black Mirror series.

Fantastic.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrij on 08 June, 2019, 11:20:01 am
Putin’s Media Struggle to Deal With HBO’s Chernobyl (https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2019/06/04/putins-media-struggle-to-deal-with-hbos-chernobyl-a65866)

The Kremlin is producing it's own series, including showing the accident was caused by Aliens! the CIA. ::-)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: spesh on 08 June, 2019, 11:27:19 am
Putin’s Media Struggle to Deal With HBO’s Chernobyl (https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2019/06/04/putins-media-struggle-to-deal-with-hbos-chernobyl-a65866)

The Kremlin is producing it's own series, including showing the accident was caused by Aliens! the CIA. ::-)

Hang on a mo... I realise that the targets for such bullpucky are in a mostly-closed information environment, but isn't saying that Chernobyl blowing up was due to foreign sabotage a bit of a hilarious self-own because it implies that Soviet counter-intelligence wasn't good enough to catch the perp before they infiltrated the workforce at the power plant?  ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: fd3 on 08 June, 2019, 09:46:36 pm
Anyone know why E10 of HIGNFY has not been aired (what did they say this time?) and when the epoisode they had to pull for the euro Elections will air?

Also, Spiral soon.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Tim Hall on 08 June, 2019, 11:08:41 pm

Also, Spiral soon.

Ooh! When?
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Basil on 08 June, 2019, 11:37:35 pm
Well, as a non TV watcher, it takes me a little while to join in.  I'm sure there's been much previous discussion which I'm not going to be bothered to look for.

I watched S1 E1 of Killing Eve tonight.  Very good.  :thumbsup:
It's possible I may watch a few more.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mr Larrington on 09 June, 2019, 12:08:11 pm

Also, Spiral soon.

Ooh! When?

Wotesed!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: rafletcher on 09 June, 2019, 03:08:00 pm
Hmm,we felt Spiral had just about completed the circuit up its own behind during the last series. We’ll give it a go I guess,  but may not stick with it.

This week on ITV4, Dauphine and the OVO women’s tour.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Legs on 09 June, 2019, 07:24:47 pm
I think it was a repeat, but Titanic: The New Evidence on C4 last night was good.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Basil on 10 June, 2019, 09:57:29 pm
We have just watched a Netflix documentary on supreme court judge Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Wow. I feel totally, totally  inadequate. What a woman. What an inspiration.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 11 June, 2019, 08:34:10 am
Good Omens starts on Amazon Prime on Friday :)
Not getting a fantastic review in the Guardian today....

Miss von Brandenburg has been consistently refusing to watch it ever since the project was announced, and doubly so since David Tennant, great ham that he be, was confirmed in the part of Crowley.  I revisited the wireless series recently, which was a Thing of Splendid.
Actually, Sheen and Tennant were some of the best parts of the series. Sheen was given the best lines.
It is ok. Doesn't translate to the screen brilliantly.
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: mattc on 11 June, 2019, 07:06:21 pm
Anyone watching Gentleman Jack? You can't really go wrong with the wonderful Suranne Jones, but this goes down some unusual avenues.

I was a bit worried by the end of this week's - there is a suggestion of a huge overlap with Killing Eve territory!
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 11 June, 2019, 07:51:14 pm
Good Omens starts on Amazon Prime on Friday :)
Not getting a fantastic review in the Guardian today....

Miss von Brandenburg has been consistently refusing to watch it ever since the project was announced, and doubly so since David Tennant, great ham that he be, was confirmed in the part of Crowley.  I revisited the wireless series recently, which was a Thing of Splendid.
Actually, Sheen and Tennant were some of the best parts of the series. Sheen was given the best lines.
It is ok. Doesn't translate to the screen brilliantly.

I thought it was ok. The last episode was a bit twee though.
Title: Re: Television tonight, what's worth watching?
Post by: telstarbox on 12 June, 2019, 01:24:24 pm
Years and Years on the BBC is excellent (last episode next week). I would describe it as a dystopian Corrie meets Dr Who.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: hubner on 17 June, 2019, 09:23:30 pm
On talking pictures freeview channel 81, in 10 minutes at 9:30pm, The criminal, 1960 film starring stanley Baker, directed by Joseph Losey.

Earlier they showed Cover Girl Killler, 1959 film with Harry H Corbett (pre steptoe)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 18 June, 2019, 02:39:30 pm
Tales of the City

Might not be everyone's cup of tea, but I'm ranking it as one of the best adaptions of a novel that I've seen.
Title: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 19 June, 2019, 08:56:52 am
Tales of the City

Might not be everyone's cup of tea, but I'm ranking it as one of the best adaptions of a novel that I've seen.

I loved the original stories/novels when I read them back in the early 90s. The C4 adaptation was great too.

Haven’t read any of the later books but I’m quite interested to see the new series. Good to see they’ve kept the same cast, though Olympia Dukakis must be getting on a bit now.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 19 June, 2019, 08:45:48 pm
Tomorrow on C4, Catch 22 with an all star cast by the looks of it.

Also, I have been enjoying What We Do in The Shadows on BBC. A silly thing about New York vampures from Jemaine Clement from Flight of the Conchords.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 20 June, 2019, 10:51:12 pm
Not tonight, but Sunday evening on Talking Pictures TV sees George Dixon (Jack Warner) come up against the villainous Dirk Bogarde in The Blue Lamp. Top 1950s crime drama.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Torslanda on 24 June, 2019, 09:04:45 pm
If anyone has Paramount Channel (dingo channel 153), just starting is 'The Hundred Foot Journey'. A truly delightful and escapist tale of triumph over prejudice and a love story.

Just watch it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 25 June, 2019, 11:55:23 am
Tomorrow on C4, Catch 22 with an all star cast by the looks of it.

Also, I have been enjoying What We Do in The Shadows on BBC. A silly thing about New York vampures from Jemaine Clement from Flight of the Conchords.

I mentioned this a while ago – it's very funny.

Hmm, Catch-22 as a tv programme, I think the book has been best described as a 'long book that feels even longer.'
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 25 June, 2019, 02:07:18 pm
I think the book has been best described as a 'long book that feels even longer.'

That sums up my feelings about it pretty well.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 25 June, 2019, 06:47:27 pm
Tomorrow on C4, Catch 22 with an all star cast by the looks of it.

Also, I have been enjoying What We Do in The Shadows on BBC. A silly thing about New York vampures from Jemaine Clement from Flight of the Conchords.
Catch 22!  What a pleasant surprise!!!  One of my favourite books ever, and this didn't actually f*ck it up  :thumbsup:

(George Clooney - who produced, I believe? - does his self-mocking thing, which is far more enjoyable these days than his romantic-lead thing.  :thumbsup: And is only in a couple of scenes  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: )

'Shadows was good too - although I only saw Ep1, and may "catch-up" one day ...
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrij on 27 June, 2019, 09:21:03 pm
Putin’s Media Struggle to Deal With HBO’s Chernobyl (https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2019/06/04/putins-media-struggle-to-deal-with-hbos-chernobyl-a65866)

The Kremlin is producing it's own series, including showing the accident was caused by Aliens! the CIA. ::-)

Russian Orthodox Church political commissar spokesperson states "Chernobyl" series is a smear campaign against Russia and its nuclear industry, (https://www.religion.in.ua/news/ukrainian_news/43881-spiker-rpc-serial-chernobyl-yeto-popytka-zapada-nanesti-udar-po-russkoj-yadernoj-promyshlennosti.html)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: spesh on 27 June, 2019, 09:39:06 pm
Putin’s Media Struggle to Deal With HBO’s Chernobyl (https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2019/06/04/putins-media-struggle-to-deal-with-hbos-chernobyl-a65866)

The Kremlin is producing it's own series, including showing the accident was caused by Aliens! the CIA. ::-)

Russian Orthodox Church political commissar spokesperson states "Chernobyl" series is a smear campaign against Russia and its nuclear industry, (https://www.religion.in.ua/news/ukrainian_news/43881-spiker-rpc-serial-chernobyl-yeto-popytka-zapada-nanesti-udar-po-russkoj-yadernoj-promyshlennosti.html)

Ah, that would be the church that has just recently decided that blessing nuclear-tipped ICBMs might not be such a good look after all?  :demon:
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Andrij on 27 June, 2019, 10:06:34 pm
Putin’s Media Struggle to Deal With HBO’s Chernobyl (https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2019/06/04/putins-media-struggle-to-deal-with-hbos-chernobyl-a65866)

The Kremlin is producing it's own series, including showing the accident was caused by Aliens! the CIA. ::-)

Russian Orthodox Church political commissar spokesperson states "Chernobyl" series is a smear campaign against Russia and its nuclear industry, (https://www.religion.in.ua/news/ukrainian_news/43881-spiker-rpc-serial-chernobyl-yeto-popytka-zapada-nanesti-udar-po-russkoj-yadernoj-promyshlennosti.html)

Ah, that would be the church that has just recently decided that blessing nuclear-tipped ICBMs might not be such a good look after all?  :demon:

Externally: yes; internally: no.  The truth is flexible - it all depends on who's asking.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 29 June, 2019, 09:02:35 pm
Snatch on Sony Movie Channel right now.
" If you stop me again,  I'll cut your Jacobs off"
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: hubner on 30 June, 2019, 08:46:53 pm
On ITV at 9pm, A Fistful of Dynamite. After that, Training Day.

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 30 June, 2019, 10:02:31 pm
The Cure at Glastonbury right now.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: bludger on 30 June, 2019, 10:18:34 pm
Not live on TV but I've really enjoyed both What We Do In The Shadows and Year of the Rabbit on iPlayer and 4od respectively, both starring Matthew Berry and I found they tickle my funny bone very well.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: hubner on 30 June, 2019, 10:38:58 pm
The Swimmer on Talking Pictures at 11:35pm.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: T42 on 01 July, 2019, 01:30:33 pm
Not live on TV but I've really enjoyed both What We Do In The Shadows and Year of the Rabbit on iPlayer and 4od respectively, both starring Matthew Berry and I found they tickle my funny bone very well.

Made me think of this: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Year_of_the_Angry_Rabbit

Fun.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pumpkin on 03 July, 2019, 01:43:33 pm
Adventure Show on BBC Scotland/iplayer has an extreme event called Celtman - basically an Ironman. The scenery is glorious (but 3 seasons in a day). A good watch if you are interested in the endurance thing
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: hillbilly on 03 July, 2019, 03:42:10 pm
Currently catching up with Stranger Things on Netlix. 

OK, I'm about 2 years late to the party, but it's an excellent hark back to 80s horror genre a la Stephen King and David Cronenberg.  The alarming thing is that for many "less mature" watchers, there is ample scope to be mystified by a lot of the cutting edge pre-digital technology that appears (what strange magic is this that they can make pictures in the dark by waving paper in water...)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 19 July, 2019, 12:05:42 pm
It'll be on iPlaayer, because it finished last night, but we've been watching "Chasing the moon" on BBC4, a 6 part documentary on the space race, including some of the politics behind it - all the space facilities are in the South, because the House committees that gave the funding were chaired by southerners. Which also held back the introduction of black astronauts. Fascinating.
Title: Re: Television tonight, what's worth watching?
Post by: lou boutin on 19 July, 2019, 03:38:30 pm
Years and Years on the BBC is excellent (last episode next week). I would describe it as a dystopian Corrie meets Dr Who.

It scared the jeheebees out of me.  It was the side statements like 'do you remember when there were butterflies' and 'before bananas became extinct' that did the most damage.  I've decided that the politician with the spinning bow tie in the end shots is Bor!s.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: hubner on 19 July, 2019, 08:34:28 pm
On Talking Pictures (Freeview 81) tonight at 9:30pm, The Anderson Tapes, then Expresso Bongo.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 31 July, 2019, 09:11:58 pm
Watching the last season of Orange is the New Black and it's much better than the last couple of seasons.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 31 July, 2019, 09:19:02 pm
Currently catching up with Stranger Things on Netlix. 

OK, I'm about 2 years late to the party, but it's an excellent hark back to 80s horror genre a la Stephen King and David Cronenberg.  The alarming thing is that for many "less mature" watchers, there is ample scope to be mystified by a lot of the cutting edge pre-digital technology that appears (what strange magic is this that they can make pictures in the dark by waving paper in water...)

Finally got around to it, I did kind of think it would fade after the novelty of series 1, but really still fun. It helps that I'm age-locked with the characters as an 80s kid. The parade of fashion in the mall episode I watched last night was priceless and when Howard Jones kicked in, I was gone. I also used to listen to Russians (and aliens) on SW.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 08 August, 2019, 07:44:31 pm
Got to the end of Stranger Things 3 and really, it's the perfect antidote to the crap Netflix often pumps out, and by far one of the best things I've seen on TV. It ought to labour under the weight of all that nostalgia, but it's so deftly written that it really doesn't, and unlike much of Netflix's multi-hour output, it doesn't suffer from the dire pacing issues or need to turn it into soap opera – it takes a lot from broadcast era tv with the story arc running in the background of self-contained episodes, each with a hook, rather than wallowing through episodes because, well, you have paid the subscription so you might as well. Even Operation Child Endangerment, which should and could have been a complete Scrappy-Doo, remained funny and on point.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: hubner on 16 August, 2019, 08:57:15 pm
Easy Rider (1969) on Movies4men, Freeveiw channel 40, 9pm.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 17 August, 2019, 02:09:58 am
Easy Rider (1969) on Movies4men, Freeveiw channel 40, 9pm.

Spook!  See elsethread for Peter Fonda news :'(
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: hubner on 17 August, 2019, 07:02:23 am
Easy Rider (1969) on Movies4men, Freeveiw channel 40, 9pm.

Spook!  See elsethread for Peter Fonda news :'(

 :o
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 18 August, 2019, 11:38:28 am
Succession

New thing from Jesse Armstrong, half of the team behind Peep Show. Well, new-ish - we’re still catching up with the first series but the second series started recently on Sky Atlantic.

It’s superb. And absolutely nothing like Peep Show. My wife last night asked “Is this a comedy?” Interesting question. It’s a sign of how sophisticated tv comedy has become these days. It’s very, very funny. But it presents itself as a serious drama - in its production values, and the themes and topics it covers, and the quality of the script, and the cast...

Big Little Lies was similar, also very funny.

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 19 August, 2019, 04:08:07 pm
Some cracking Fake or Fortune this series.  Philip Mould is a complete LAD, sashaying suavely in and out of the most chic European galleries and dazzling all-comers with his encyclopaedic knowledge of catalogues raisonnés.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 19 August, 2019, 04:40:14 pm
Some cracking Fake or Fortune this series.  Philip Mould is a complete LAD, sashaying suavely in and out of the most chic European galleries and dazzling all-comers with his encyclopaedic knowledge of catalogues raisonnés.

Philip Mould is a complete something, that's for sure. "Lad" isn't the word that comes to my mind.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 19 August, 2019, 06:12:44 pm
Bendor Grosvenor is my favourite, mainly for his completely made-up name.

Philip Mould looks like someone who has half an eye on who will play him in the biopic. Benedict Cumberbatch, he hopes.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 20 August, 2019, 11:55:33 am
Also well worth watching is the Jack and Michael Whitehall episode of Who Do You Think You Are?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 20 August, 2019, 12:34:56 pm
[Succession] presents itself as a serious drama - in its production values, and the themes and topics it covers, and the quality of the script, and the cast...


...and the music over the credits.

I haven't bothered catching up with S1. I wasn't too sure about S2 ep1 but I'm coming round to it after watching ep2, now having given up hope of any character showing any redeemable character traits.

Big Little Lies was similar, also very funny.

To my surprise (the subject matter wouldn't normally be my thing) I thought it was brilliant, and funny, and, again, the music was great.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 20 August, 2019, 06:10:07 pm
The music in Big Little Lies is particularly excellent.

given up hope of any character showing any redeemable character traits.

They are all utterly appalling excuses for human beings.

I wasn't sure about Matthew Macfadyen at first, especially his accent, but as the series has gone on, I've come to realise what a thoroughly masterful performance it is. Who knew he could do comedy?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 05 September, 2019, 10:09:59 am
Getting into Succession even more now, but I still find the drama/comedy mix unsettling, especially because the last one had some very funny scenes (the whole 'active shooter' incident, and the eulogy for Mo Lester). I LOLed at Matthew McFadyen's 'Out of the way - executive coming through' as he barged underlings out of his way on his dash to to the 'safe room'. Maybe I'm just getting more attuned to the comedy.

I was thinking about how different it was from Peep Show for Jesse Armstrong - what a lurch - but at heart they both leave you squirming with vicarious embarrasment. Production costs are presumably a tad different though.

I knew I'd seen the Connor Roy character somewhere before and worked out, confirmed by IMDB, that it was Cameron, Ferris Buehler's mate. Ditto Roman Roy - not sure I've ever seen him before but it turns out he's Macaulay Culkin's brother.

On a different matter - the new Taskmaster series started last night. Yay!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: hubner on 07 September, 2019, 07:54:38 pm
On Taking Pictures (Freview 81),Hombre just started, a really good film.

Then after that, This sporting Life, which I haven't seen.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 08 September, 2019, 08:25:02 am
Well, last night, but - The Rise of the Nazis.

Spine chilling stuff. So many parallels can be drawn between what was going on in the early / mid 30s in Germany and the manoeuvrings here in the UK today.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jurek on 08 September, 2019, 08:37:20 am
Well, last night, but - The Rise of the Nazis.

Spine chilling stuff. So many parallels can be drawn between what was going on in the early / mid 30s in Germany and the manoeuvrings here in the UK today.

I've been watching a lot of Jonathan Meads documentaries at work (It has been slack) recently.
I enjoy his delivery.
He does one on the Nazis.
It is really, really depressing.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 08 September, 2019, 09:15:47 am
Well, last night, but - The Rise of the Nazis.

Spine chilling stuff. So many parallels can be drawn between what was going on in the early / mid 30s in Germany and the manoeuvrings here in the UK today.
Thanks for this info - my German partner and I will watch this from our coldy deathbed today!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 08 September, 2019, 10:45:10 am
I enjoy his delivery.
He does one on the Nazis.
It is really, really depressing.

I share your thoughts. OK, his purpose is to make it easy for us to draw parallels, but even taking that into account, the series of events he describes could be a storyboard for what is occurring right now in UK politics in terms of tactics, strategies, resetting norms of public discourse...

The somewhat anxiety-inducing background music adds to the darkness.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 08 September, 2019, 01:12:44 pm
Scarborough on Friday night was good. Some corking one liners. Very Victoria Wood.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 10 September, 2019, 11:09:55 pm
This Sporting Life is on Talking Pictures right now. Directed by Lindsey Anderson ( was all his work in black and white?), starring Richard Harris. IMDB tells me William Hartnell is in it too.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 11 September, 2019, 05:51:51 am
Directed by Lindsey Anderson ( was all his work in black and white?)

If... is in a mixture of colour and black & white. Ostensibly because it was easier/quicker/cheaper to shoot some scenes in b&w, but I’ve always thought it was at least partly for effect, seeing as how the film is heavily influenced by the nouvelle vague and the likes of Godard.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 13 September, 2019, 12:49:08 pm
You could never accuse me of being merely 'behind the curve'; in this case, the curve has disappeared waaay beyond the horizon...  Mrs Legs and I watched half of the first episode of Life On Mars on iPlayer last night.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: tiermat on 14 September, 2019, 07:11:26 am
On Amazon Prime, Carnival Row.

Imagine Ripper Street mixed up with Penny Dreadful (plus a little bit of Upstairs, Downstairs/Downton Abbey) and you pretty much have it.  Well written, fantastic cast (Orlando Bloom and Cara Delevigne).

I may have annoyed Mrs T by referring to Mr Bloom as a hobbit, finding the best way to wind her up is to mix film/Tv gendres as displayed in one line "Isn't he a little tall to be a Hobbit?"
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 19 September, 2019, 01:42:28 pm
Actually was on on BBC2 on Tuesday, we caught it on iPlayer last evening - episode 1 of Defending the Guilty. Probably a Marmite sort of programme, I loved it. All episodes currently on iPlayer
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 19 September, 2019, 02:35:56 pm
Re- Defending the Guilty. I saw and enjoyed the pilot which was broadcaset last year, so was pleased to see that a full series had been commisioned (but disappointed that ep 1 was a repeat of the pilot).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 September, 2019, 10:38:56 am
Derry Girls : how have I managed to miss this?

Dark crystal the rising tide of crap.
Lasted 5min.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: hubner on 22 September, 2019, 10:48:17 am
A couple of B&W classics today:

The Lady Vanishes - BBC2
The Seventh Seal - BBC4
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 27 September, 2019, 08:39:10 pm
Late to the party, on BBC4 “The Troubles, a Secret History”. Excellent.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: hubner on 27 September, 2019, 09:15:28 pm
Talking Pictures Freeview 81 tonight:


10pm - The Damned (1963)

Director: Joseph Losey. Stars Macdonald Carey, Shirley Anne Field & Viveca Lindfors.

The sister of a motorbike gang leader (Oliver Redd) and her boyfriend discover a military base when on the run.


11:50 pm - Night of the Demon (1957) ,classic horror.

Director: Jacques Tourneur. Stars Dana Andrews, Peggy Cummins and Niall MacGinnis.

A professor arrives in London to find himself investigating a devil worshipper
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fuzzy on 27 September, 2019, 11:04:44 pm
BBC 4 earlier this evening- Joan Armatrading- Me Myself I.

I love her music.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 28 September, 2019, 11:15:12 am
The new series of The Circle is strangely, horribly compelling. Richard Madeley is passing himself off as a 27 year old woman. Beyond the cringe.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 03 October, 2019, 04:58:05 pm
Saturday October 12, 9 pm, BBC4.  Engrenages series 7.  Settez le video.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 03 October, 2019, 05:04:47 pm
Saturday October 12, 9 pm, BBC4.  Engrenages series 7.  Settez le video.

Oooh. Merci bien, M Le Maire.

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 03 October, 2019, 05:15:55 pm
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Pingu on 04 October, 2019, 12:42:29 pm
Saturday October 12, 9 pm, BBC4.  Engrenages series 7.  Settez le video.

Will this be the grand finale where they all get sacked for being utterly incompetent and corrupt?  :)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 04 October, 2019, 02:20:02 pm
Or they're all killed utterly to DETH by vengeful wives/swarthy FOREIGN drug smugglers/feral teens.  Except M. le Juge, who goes on to a long and lucrative career managing Arsenal.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 04 October, 2019, 04:41:41 pm
Or they're all killed utterly to DETH by vengeful wives/swarthy FOREIGN drug smugglers/feral teens.  Except M. le Juge, who goes on to a long and lucrative career managing Arsenal.
Or as a stunt double for Andy Warhol.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Woofage on 11 October, 2019, 12:53:12 pm
Not strictly TV but tonight we will be sitting down to watch the Breaking Bad movie which was released today on Netflix.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: PeteB99 on 12 October, 2019, 12:06:47 pm
Saturday October 12, 9 pm, BBC4.  Engrenages series 7.  Settez le video.

Not watched any of the previous series. Is it something you can watch as a one off series?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 12 October, 2019, 02:48:29 pm
Saturday October 12, 9 pm, BBC4.  Engrenages series 7.  Settez le video.

Not watched any of the previous series. Is it something you can watch as a one off series?

The first series I saw was the third so there was quite a lot less backstory then but I reckon it'd be worth a try and if you haven't got a clue what's going on, wait for the bits with Audrey Fleurot in them :P
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 15 October, 2019, 01:17:57 pm
Well, the last minute of Succesion Series 2 set up Series 3 in a rather exhilerating way. Shame we'll have to wait several months for it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ElyDave on 16 October, 2019, 10:13:34 pm
Terminator 2  8)
Title: Re: Television tonight, whats worth watching
Post by: Pickled Onion on 20 October, 2019, 09:45:16 am
I would love to see Chernobyl as the reviews are great, but I have no idea how to. I’m living in Germany and have Amazon Prime but it’s not on that. Maybe they will release it on DVD sometime, I think I have a DVD player in a drawer somewhere.
It's on DVD and Amazon Prime now. Quite expensive, but there are some on ebay.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 20 October, 2019, 10:15:10 am
I bought the DVD when in the UK in July. I have lent it to loads of friends here, I thought it was brilliant!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 31 October, 2019, 07:32:42 pm
Tuesday November 5th, 21:00, BBC4: Rich Hall's Red Menace.  The gravel-voiced one examines the relationship between the West and the Soviet Union.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 31 October, 2019, 07:37:31 pm
Thx for the heads up  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ElyDave on 31 October, 2019, 08:58:24 pm
BOO! I'll be in FOREIGN!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 31 October, 2019, 09:21:23 pm
BOO! I'll be in FOREIGN!

‘‘Tis what video recording devices were invented for. Or, indeed, iPlayer.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: tiermat on 01 November, 2019, 06:56:11 am
Just finished watching Preacher on Prime.

Well done, well written and acted.

At last a series that knows when to call it a day (4 series)

You can pick up the hand of Seth Rogen in the dialogue at times.

Well worth watching.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Andy64 on 02 November, 2019, 09:13:07 am
Unbelievable on Netflix is rather good. As is the first two episodes of Giri/Haji on iPlayer
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 02 November, 2019, 09:58:42 am
His Dark Materials starts on Her Majesty's British Broadcasting Corporation this evening.

I managed 2.5 of the books, have downloads of the radio version and was a bit disappointed by the film "The Golden Compass".
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 02 November, 2019, 12:58:32 pm
Er, it's not until tomorrow.  BBC 1, 20:00.  I am under orders to watch it for Miss von Brandenburg who says she'll only watch it "if it's as good as The Crow Road".
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 02 November, 2019, 01:15:59 pm
Er, it's not until tomorrow.  BBC 1, 20:00.  I am under orders to watch it for Miss von Brandenburg who says she'll only watch it "if it's as good as The Crow Road".
I was close. I shall get my computer to watch it, as I am Otherwise Engaged.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 02 November, 2019, 01:21:50 pm
Coming soon (BBC 1 Monday 22.35) series 2 of The Young Offenders. Actually that's a repeat of the last episode of the first series. It's actually on BBC3 - which is online only now  ::-)  Apart from that, I was right!!

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 03 November, 2019, 06:40:24 pm
Er, it's not until tomorrow.  BBC 1, 20:00.  I am under orders to watch it for Miss von Brandenburg who says she'll only watch it "if it's as good as The Crow Road".
I was close. I shall get my computer to watch it, as I am Otherwise Engaged.
I think Miss vB may have an hour to fill with something else, but we'll see!

Interesting factoids about this series:
- Mr Pullman was heavily involved, and
- They have used puppeteers (á la Warhorse on stage I think) instead of CGI for lots of stuffs.
- It's got Ruth Wilson in. I know you knew that, but it's worth mentioning :)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 04 November, 2019, 06:06:44 pm
Jack Ryan Season 2 on Prime. Looks like they fired the script writer. OTOH, it has at least 12 Executive Producers.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 05 November, 2019, 10:06:42 am

- They have used puppeteers (á la Warhorse on stage I think) instead of CGI for lots of stuffs.


I think the puppets were for rehearsals, the final product uses CGI daemons.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 05 November, 2019, 12:31:03 pm
The first time Ms Wilson appeared on screen it was impossible to imagine how any casting director had thought Nicole Kidman would make a good Mrs Coulter.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: telstarbox on 06 November, 2019, 12:00:58 pm
Tuesday November 5th, 21:00, BBC4: Rich Hall's Red Menace.  The gravel-voiced one examines the relationship between the West and the Soviet Union.

As part of the same season, this was excellent the night before:

Quote
A haunting film about Britain and the nuclear age, from the first bomb tests to our potentially futile preparations for attack during the Cold War. Framed by Britain's mission to build the bomb, A British Guide to the End of the World uses extraordinary unseen archive and exclusive testimonies from people directly involved in our nuclear story, from conscripted soldiers attending the early nuclear tests in the South Pacific to servicemen, volunteers and civil servants involved in the planning of how we might have managed in the event of a nuclear catastrophe.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000b1gn
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Feanor on 09 November, 2019, 09:13:40 pm
Just watched the first Dark Materials episode.
I quite liked it.

I had read the first of the books to the kids as bed-time stories back in the day, and I have read the other books too.
I found the film of the Golden Compass a bit meh.

But I think that with mini-series format, they have more time to play with, and can explore the complexities of the story a bit more. Less restrictive than a 2-hour movie format where you have to focus on a few big-bang scenes.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 09 November, 2019, 09:20:47 pm
We just watched that too.
I was finding the 'big dramatic film score' musak a bit irritating at first but it got better.
The fillum *was* awful.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 11 November, 2019, 01:43:38 am
Oh dear.  Only on episide 2 and HDM has gone off-piste ???
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 11 November, 2019, 01:18:30 pm
Brittania - Sky and Amazon Prime

I have watched the first three episodes and am enjoying this. It very high budget for a British production of this kind and it's slightly bonkers.
Mackenzie Crook is obviously enjoying hamming it up as Veran the head druid immensely. Zoë Wanamaker as the queen of the Regni with a testicularly challenged son is brilliant as well.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 11 November, 2019, 02:01:26 pm
For those who like their Midsomer murders with an antipodean flavour, The Brokenwood Mysteries return to the
 freeview Drama channel on the 18th.  We watch on catch-up ok UK TV player (there are I think 5 previous series).

And we started series 2 of Killing Eve last night - bonkers!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 11 November, 2019, 07:23:47 pm
Oh dear.  Only on episide 2 and HDM has gone off-piste ???
Oh dear. If this is related to them (i.e. Mr Pullman) deviating from the book, our friendship may be in unexpected jeopardy.  :demon:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Redlight on 14 November, 2019, 03:15:52 pm
In case not noticed elsewhere on the forum, Chris Boardman is one of the panellists on the Nigel Farage Show BBC Question Time tonight.

As the producers reportedly plant questions from the audience, what's the betting we get a question about compulsory helmets, followed by the usual gamomn-esque rants about pavements, red lights, lycra, etc.? :facepalm:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 14 November, 2019, 03:18:55 pm
In case not noticed elsewhere on the forum, Chris Boardman is one of the panellists on the Nigel Farage Show BBC Question Time tonight.

As the producers reportedly plant questions from the audience, what's the betting we get a question about compulsory helmets, followed by the usual gamomn-esque rants about pavements, red lights, lycra, etc.? :facepalm:

He'd be prepared for those with his usual brand of common sense, but that doesn't stop Farage the rest of the panel siding with the gammons for a few BloodyCyclists soundbites that play well to, well, most people.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: bludger on 17 November, 2019, 09:18:56 pm
It's online, not on TV, and I don't even like Star Wars but The Mandalorian is really good so far. Really recommend it, you don't even need to have seen star wars movies.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 20 November, 2019, 09:05:33 pm
Ronin. Shooters, car chases, De Niro. ITV4 now.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Canardly on 20 November, 2019, 09:21:40 pm
Just seen the Beebs take on Wo the Worlds. Pretty good.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 22 November, 2019, 10:31:51 pm
It's online, not on TV, and I don't even like Star Wars but The Mandalorian is really good so far. Really recommend it, you don't even need to have seen star wars movies.

It "leans" heavily on Lone Wolf and & Cub. I'm just waiting for him to see if Baby Yoda will choose the thermal detonator or the ball.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 24 November, 2019, 03:04:00 pm
Unbelievable on Netflix is rather good. As is the first two episodes of Giri/Haji on iPlayer
Giri/Haji seconded.  Mrs Legs has been away for the past couple of nights so I've watched the first two episodes.  Problem is, she's back tonight, so do I let her catch up or just try to finish it off without her?

Perhaps I could rewatch with her but not let on, and uncannily predict all the plot twists?!?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: StuAff on 24 November, 2019, 04:48:22 pm
Giri/Haji thirded. I'm sticking with the broadcasts. Amid strong competition (the past few weeks have been rather excellent for TV drama) this is the best thing on the box. Extraordinarily good.

May I commend to the forum, from a most unexpected source- Channel 5- Cold Call? A financial scam drama that absolutely refuses to succumb to predictable turns or 'happy ever after'. Could have been trite, anything but. Just watching the last part.

Oh, and Guilt. Definitely Guilt. The second best thing on the box. Hoping for a second series…
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 24 November, 2019, 05:48:47 pm
Definitely Guilt seconded.  The reason I started Giri/Haji was because I knew I would get told off if I pressed on with Guilt!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 24 November, 2019, 06:00:09 pm
Did someone say Guilt...?  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: StuAff on 24 November, 2019, 06:27:27 pm
Actually, having now watched the final part of Cold Call.....that's joint second or third best thing. Only slightly less pleasingly twisty than Guilt, great cast, characters that were rounded, convincingly flawed and interesting, an equally satisfying ending, and Geoff McGivern doing a not-at-all nice 'businessman' on a par with, if not better than, Bill Paterson in Guilt. Five striped it over four consecutive nights, and it wasn't 'let's get this thing over and done with'. Blood last year was splendid, but this topped it. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: StuAff on 24 November, 2019, 08:31:17 pm
On His Dark Materials…
I've not read the books, vaguely familiar with how bad the film was…so no comments on deviations from the text. But this is why I pay my licence fee. Loving it. Ruth Wilson is, as ever, magnificent, young Ms Keen splendid, CGI work top notch. And Peter Hitchens hates it, which I always take as an endorsement for those of sound mind.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 25 November, 2019, 09:06:13 am
Anyone else seen 'The End of the F***ing World'?  I've just finished the second series after binge-watching the first when off-sick last week. It was very good. I don't think I've seen anything like it before, not that I'm the target demographic. It's difficult to describe it without giving away any spoilers, but a 'non-conventional adolescent love road story' sort of covers it, with Larkin's observations on what your parents do to you pretty much underpinning everything that happens. Very British but happy to pretend it's American. Dark without being overpoweringly so. Sweet without being saccharine. Maybe a touch twee. And funny, or at least I found it so.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 25 November, 2019, 09:29:06 am
On His Dark Materials…
I've not read the books, vaguely familiar with how bad the film was…so no comments on deviations from the text. But this is why I pay my licence fee. Loving it. Ruth Wilson is, as ever, magnificent, young Ms Keen splendid, CGI work top notch. And Peter Hitchens hates it, which I always take as an endorsement for those of sound mind.

This Unit is, however, displeased with the liberties someone has taken with the character of Lee Scoresby.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 November, 2019, 12:57:05 pm
On His Dark Materials…
I've not read the books, vaguely familiar with how bad the film was…so no comments on deviations from the text. But this is why I pay my licence fee. Loving it. Ruth Wilson is, as ever, magnificent, young Ms Keen splendid, CGI work top notch. And Peter Hitchens hates it, which I always take as an endorsement for those of sound mind.

This Unit is, however, displeased with the liberties someone has taken with the character of Lee Scoresby.

Jars a bit, doesn't it?
Doesn't help that the film got that about perfect, right down to the casting.

Some of the casting is Not Good in the series. Strong performance from the leads is holding it together, but only just.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 28 November, 2019, 10:41:53 pm
On His Dark Materials…
I've not read the books, vaguely familiar with how bad the film was…so no comments on deviations from the text. But this is why I pay my licence fee. Loving it. Ruth Wilson is, as ever, magnificent, young Ms Keen splendid, CGI work top notch. And Peter Hitchens hates it, which I always take as an endorsement for those of sound mind.
:thumbsup:
(I have read the books. And I live v near Oxford.and I don't give a monkeys about the minor deviations from both.))
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 13 December, 2019, 12:12:22 am
The Expanse.  Season 4.  :thumbsup:

on Amazon Prime.   
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 13 December, 2019, 08:33:13 am
I had Burt Reynolds in my head when I read Lee Scoresby.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rob on 13 December, 2019, 10:38:13 am
On His Dark Materials…
I've not read the books, vaguely familiar with how bad the film was…so no comments on deviations from the text. But this is why I pay my licence fee. Loving it. Ruth Wilson is, as ever, magnificent, young Ms Keen splendid, CGI work top notch. And Peter Hitchens hates it, which I always take as an endorsement for those of sound mind.
:thumbsup:
(I have read the books. And I live v near Oxford.and I don't give a monkeys about the minor deviations from both.))

I'm quite enjoying it, but I haven't read the books.   Mrs Rob has got the hump a little with the order that things are happening.

Compare this with the re-interpretation of War of the Worlds which was, frankly, terrible.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 December, 2019, 11:00:15 am
On His Dark Materials…
I've not read the books, vaguely familiar with how bad the film was…so no comments on deviations from the text. But this is why I pay my licence fee. Loving it. Ruth Wilson is, as ever, magnificent, young Ms Keen splendid, CGI work top notch. And Peter Hitchens hates it, which I always take as an endorsement for those of sound mind.
:thumbsup:
(I have read the books. And I live v near Oxford.and I don't give a monkeys about the minor deviations from both.))

I'm quite enjoying it, but I haven't read the books.   Mrs Rob has got the hump a little with the order that things are happening.

Compare this with the re-interpretation of War of the Worlds which was, frankly, terrible.

The one starring everyone's favourite Scientologist, or the just-released one on the Beeb?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rob on 13 December, 2019, 11:06:07 am
On His Dark Materials…
I've not read the books, vaguely familiar with how bad the film was…so no comments on deviations from the text. But this is why I pay my licence fee. Loving it. Ruth Wilson is, as ever, magnificent, young Ms Keen splendid, CGI work top notch. And Peter Hitchens hates it, which I always take as an endorsement for those of sound mind.
:thumbsup:
(I have read the books. And I live v near Oxford.and I don't give a monkeys about the minor deviations from both.))

I'm quite enjoying it, but I haven't read the books.   Mrs Rob has got the hump a little with the order that things are happening.

Compare this with the re-interpretation of War of the Worlds which was, frankly, terrible.

The one starring everyone's favourite Scientologist, or the just-released one on the Beeb?

Hehe.   I quite like the Spielberg/Cruise version.   The Beeb's was 3hrs of my life I'm not getting back - just way too slow - and all the post-apocalyptic stuff didn't add much.

This isn't my general approach to Sci-Fi.   As an example I prefer the black and white version of 'the Day the Earth Stood Still' to the Keanu Reeves version.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 13 December, 2019, 03:27:42 pm
I had Burt Reynolds in my head when I read Lee Scoresby.

I had a white-hatted version of Lee Van Cleef, probably because Philip Pullman did too.  Certainly not some dreadful thief who cheats at cards.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 December, 2019, 05:23:38 pm
I had Burt Reynolds in my head when I read Lee Scoresby.

I had a white-hatted version of Lee Van Cleef, probably because Philip Pullman did too.  Certainly not some dreadful thief who cheats at cards.
Sam Elliott made a brilliant Lee Scoresby

(https://c8.alamy.com/comp/BPTG0J/sam-elliott-hare-his-dark-materials-the-golden-compass-2007-BPTG0J.jpg)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 13 December, 2019, 09:31:19 pm
Sam Elliott made a brilliant Lee Scoresby

Agreed.  One thing that film got right.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Torslanda on 14 December, 2019, 02:06:41 pm
Traces

It's on Alibi/UKTV Play. Fairly stock forensics/police procedural but well acted with some plot twists that keep you watching.

Seen 3 of 6 so far. Recommended...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 14 December, 2019, 03:28:21 pm
WotW:


Hehe.   I quite like the Spielberg/Cruise version.   The Beeb's was 3hrs of my life I'm not getting back - just way too slow - and all the post-apocalyptic stuff didn't add much.

Have you read the book??? In 3hrs just about nothing happens!

I rather enjoyed this Beeb version, although it was far from perfect. I did think it would be a bit "marmite". I was just pleased they did something different, and did most of it well.

(although I don't think the post-apoc bits would have happened without Blade Runner II, and the tripods owed a lot to Cloverfield. Which is no bad thing ... )
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 14 December, 2019, 03:42:14 pm
I had Burt Reynolds in my head when I read Lee Scoresby.

I had a white-hatted version of Lee Van Cleef, probably because Philip Pullman did too.  Certainly not some dreadful thief who cheats at cards.
Who did Pullman want in the TV version? Was he overruled?

But I think some people need to get real about budgets. The BBC spent most of their money on Ruth Wilson - care to estimate her fee vs the cost of Nicole Kidman (whom Pullman begged to get in the movie)? Do you think they had budget left for Burt Reynolds, Lee Van Cleef or Sam Elliot?

Here's a good Pullman quote (from WIki):
Quote
"every film has to make changes to the story that the original book tells—not to change the outcome, but to make it fit the dimensions and the medium of film"
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 15 December, 2019, 01:50:59 pm
The benchmark for TV adaptions is still "The Crow Road".
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 15 December, 2019, 01:53:50 pm
I dunno why Pullman would have begged Nicole Kidman. She was dire.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 15 December, 2019, 10:47:36 pm
I thought tonight s was really good! It's picking up pace quite nicely.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 18 December, 2019, 08:25:52 pm
Another latecomer to 'The End of the F***ing World' party here, am liking it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: hubner on 20 December, 2019, 09:56:40 pm
Peeping Tom, 10pm on Talking Pictures.

Classic 1960 gruesome shocker from Michael Powell.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Ruthie on 20 December, 2019, 10:07:13 pm
Another latecomer to 'The End of the F***ing World' party here, am liking it.

Ooh I keep meaning to watch that.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: sg37409 on 21 December, 2019, 12:06:30 pm
Petty and ill-informed (https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000cj0f)  ;D :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 21 December, 2019, 01:24:05 pm
Another latecomer to 'The End of the F***ing World' party here, am liking it.

Ooh I keep meaning to watch that.
It's really  F***ing good!!! I didn't really have a clue what was going on, due to:
- missing Series1 (the recap was almost damaging)
- our wobbly old Humax eating loads of key dialogue,
- multiple flashbacks, and
- despite being set in the UK (possibly Scotland??), it is stylistically 100% in the footsteps of recent US productions. Which messed with my head.

Not sure if the latter is because of the Netflix/US cash, or because the makers are fans of Fargo and Wes Anderson films. I see no harm in more telly being like this  :thumbsup:

We will hopefully watch right from the beginning one day - something to look forward to...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 21 December, 2019, 02:00:00 pm
I dunno about s2 being as we are watching s1 just now, which definitely not in Scotland.
I noted to Pingu in episode 1 how the housing estates looked more USanian in feel than UK.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 21 December, 2019, 02:07:30 pm
There seem to be a lot of scenes in "diners". I've only ever eaten in one such in the UK.


(apparently they filmed a lot on the Isle of Sheppey. Most english islands are pretty odd places)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 23 December, 2019, 05:57:13 pm
Christmas Carol! With Guy Pearce and Stephen Graham! From the Taboo people!!!

Why is no-one else talking about this?!?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 24 December, 2019, 09:08:21 pm
The Witcher. I really like it it.  They took Geralt from the games and placed him into the world of the books.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Rowan on 25 December, 2019, 01:00:20 am
Christmas Carol! With Guy Pearce and Stephen Graham! From the Taboo people!!!

Why is no-one else talking about this?!?
just brilliant, best christmas carol ever - what else would you expect from Ridley Scott

(did anyone spot chris packham ?)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 25 December, 2019, 09:33:45 am
No, I can't say I did!
(Was he the mouse?)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Paul on 25 December, 2019, 10:43:38 am
Christmas Carol! With Guy Pearce and Stephen Graham! From the Taboo people!!!

Why is no-one else talking about this?!?
just brilliant, best christmas carol ever - what else would you expect from Ridley Scott

(did anyone spot chris packham ?)

Astonishing telly. Cold, dark and brutal but full of desperate humanity. I think it should be on a syllabus, but I don’t know which one. Maybe all of them.

Will now have to google the cast to identify Chris Packham.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Rowan on 25 December, 2019, 11:10:43 am
it was in the voice and mannerisms of one of the main characters, you wouldn't see it in a still picture .... I could only get a half hearted agreement from the wife, so may be its just me?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 25 December, 2019, 11:24:18 am
According to a chum the Lower Orders are complaining about the Christmas Carol having brown people in it :facepalm:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 25 December, 2019, 06:02:30 pm
According to a chum the Lower Orders are complaining about the Christmas Carol having brown people in it :facepalm:
How could they tell- everything was too dark!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 25 December, 2019, 06:37:20 pm
If you didnt watch the Queen's Speech then you dont believe in Britain
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Rowan on 25 December, 2019, 08:18:56 pm
it wasn't on !  I stayed in all morning
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 26 December, 2019, 11:17:09 am
Our Christmas viewing consistent of "The Rise Of The Nazis" (recorded) and "Father Ted" (DVD).  When Missis Kwin briefly appeared there was a chorus of "we doan wanna see THAT nonse" and a rapid switching-off.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 28 December, 2019, 11:21:37 am
This Unit has finally started watching Good Omens and has to confess that it is a pleasantly surprised Unit.  Not sure I entirely approve of turning Anathema into wot the vulgar call a yank hem hem but David Tennant is, for once, not actually playing David Tennant.  And Ollie, as Dog, is æxcellent.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 28 December, 2019, 09:20:08 pm
Seems like I'm the only one who found Mandalorian a bit boring?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fuzzy on 29 December, 2019, 09:58:05 am
Seems like I'm the only one who found Mandalorian a bit boring?

I dunno yet as I haven't even found Mandalorian.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 29 December, 2019, 02:11:31 pm
Finished "Good Omens".

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 06 January, 2020, 10:09:48 pm
Get Carter, the proper one, is o n ITV4 right now. So I've missed a  hour, never mind.


"You're a big man, but you're out of shape.  For me it's a full time job."
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: bludger on 06 January, 2020, 10:13:25 pm
I've enjoyed Dracula very much. I do find that Moffat TV tends to be a bit convoluted but it's a well made show for sure. You can really tell that every man in the acting trade sees Dracula as the best role in film making.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: yoav on 07 January, 2020, 12:10:01 pm
I've discovered a rather odd program on BBC iPlayer called The Mallorca Files. It's a budget, package holiday version of Death in Paradise but with fewer deaths. The uptight British police officer is a woman and the local comedy sidekick is German for some reason. The grumpy police chief is a feisty Spanish woman. The plots are a bit thin but it's a good opportunity to spot places I've been to on Cycling trips to Mallorca as its not that big an island with plenty of beautiful scenery. So far we've had the clichés of British crooks on the run, Russian oligarchs on yachts, supermodels lounging by the pool and elderly locals whinging about foreign incomers but the best episode was about cycling.

It featured a (fictional) Giro winner and Tour de France hopeful who is kidnapped just before the Mallorca Challenge (a real race). Ignoring the usual common misconceptions about cycle sport spouted by various characters, it would appear that the kidnapped cyclist was actually a dope cheat and his way of avoiding detection was a brilliant one that not even Lance Armstrong could have thought of. The episode ended with the two police officers racing each other up Sa Calobra.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 07 January, 2020, 07:50:55 pm
I've enjoyed Dracula very much. I do find that Moffat TV tends to be a bit convoluted but it's a well made show for sure. You can really tell that every man in the acting trade sees Dracula as the best role in film making.

Loving the first hour  :thumbsup:

And why no Doctor Who chat - it wasn't too bad I thought?!?

And Detectorists Scare Crows I mean Worzel Gummidge - did no-one else watch this little gentle gem?

Am I allowed to say it's been a great year for festive telly? Or will there be a Grinch Lynch??
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Socks on 07 January, 2020, 08:13:36 pm
Another vote for Worzel Gummidge.  One episode includes the best surreal scarecrow joke ever.

(click to show/hide)

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Von Broad on 09 January, 2020, 12:54:08 am
Forgive me if it's already been mentioned, but gotta say, I'm really rather enjoying 'The Trial of Christine Keeler' at the moment. Class, politics, power, race, jealousy, loss and abandonment....it's all going on. As the Guardian so succinctly said - it's a story that just keeps on giving.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000ct7y

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 09 January, 2020, 08:03:51 am
Mrs L and I watched the first half hour of Dracula the other evening, then looked at each other and said "is this really the kind of thing we want to be watching before bedtime?"  It was good, but I'm not sure I was up for another 4 hours of that kind of tension!

In lighter news, The Great Pottery Throw Down (https://www.housewareslive.net/the-great-pottery-throw-down-is-back/) is back, this time on More4.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 09 January, 2020, 09:16:30 am
Mrs L and I watched the first half hour of Dracula the other evening, then looked at each other and said "is this really the kind of thing we want to be watching before bedtime?"  It was good, but I'm not sure I was up for another 4 hours of that kind of tension!

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 12 January, 2020, 03:41:46 pm
Just awesome. Best vampire/supernatural thing in years.and years.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 14 January, 2020, 06:35:33 am
"The Messiah" on Netflix. Not finished with it yet, but it's very good.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 14 January, 2020, 06:42:21 am
The Goes Wrong Show is great - old-fashioned, perfectly done, hilarious.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 14 January, 2020, 12:51:35 pm
The Goes Wrong Show is great - old-fashioned, perfectly done, hilarious.

I was just thinking the same, after we watched the "A Trial to Watch" yesterday evening. Extremely well done farce.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Paul on 14 January, 2020, 01:04:10 pm
Just awesome. Best vampire/supernatural thing in years.and years.
Seconded.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: bludger on 14 January, 2020, 01:16:55 pm
I still rate 'What We Do in the Shadows' as the better vampire TV show ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 14 January, 2020, 06:13:59 pm
The Goes Wrong Show is great - old-fashioned, perfectly done, hilarious.

I was just thinking the same, after we watched the "A Trial to Watch" yesterday evening. Extremely well done farce.
The massive heads scene had me in absolute pieces.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 14 January, 2020, 07:55:12 pm
I watched James May: Our Man in Japan and enjoyed it. On Amazon of course.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fuzzy on 15 January, 2020, 11:10:38 am
Available on catch up, Catching a Killer- Tales from the grave.

https://inews.co.uk/culture/television/peter-farquhar-death-murder-ben-field-murderer-catching-a-killer-a-diary-from-the-grave-channel-4-tonight-1363906

I have worked with a few of the officers and staff in this documentary and it shows all involved in the light they deserve. Makes me proud to know them and have been in their number.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Paul H on 15 January, 2020, 11:20:34 am
On BritBox, available on a free 30 day trial.
Halfway through Boys from the Blackstuff, I'm enjoying it as much as I did first time round, can't believe it was nearly 40 years ago!!
After that, I'm looking forward to revisiting Our Friends from the North.
That ought to be my months worth.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 20 January, 2020, 10:03:41 pm
Hell Drivers has just started on Talking Pictures.

Stanley Baker, Herbdrt Lom, Sidney James amongst others.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 21 January, 2020, 09:49:48 am
Quite enjoyed The OA, still suitably bonkers. Now V Wars which so far isn't nearly as bad as I expected (I expected a swift tumble into the soapy, turgid Walking Dead territory, which five episodes in, it hasn't yet). It's not great, mind, but for general brain disengagement, it works fine.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 24 January, 2020, 05:02:31 pm
Bbc4 are going to be repeating This Life from Mon 3rd Feb *excite*
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 24 January, 2020, 10:07:34 pm
Flint Town on the Netflix. A sobering look at policing Flint, MI. In a David Simon theme. Sad in parts, you have to remind yourself that it's the richest country in the world you're watching. Told from the perspective of the overstretched and underfunded police force, but far from flattering, but again not without sympathy for people doing a hard job in hard times, with little support and training, and caught up in petty city hall politicking for points. The same politics that gave them poisoned water to save a buck. Shades in the nuances of the racist cops shoot black people narrative with a story far more complex. The horrorshow is, of course, the entirely abandoned black community, awash with drugs and guns, constantly brutalized, and a dearth of hope for anything better. The sort of streets the American Dream dies bloodied on every couple of nights. Pitches it into the election battle that saw Trump crowned, and truthfully you can see why people went that way, the false appeal of simple solutions to complex problems.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 05 February, 2020, 06:58:28 pm
Sunday, ITV, Endeavour S7.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 09 February, 2020, 01:35:10 pm
And another new series, a second of “Hidden”, on BBC4. I wasn’t too taken with the first series - I was hoping for more Hinterland as the team behind it was the same, but was disappointed. Still, will give this new series a try.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: hubner on 09 February, 2020, 01:46:24 pm
Hell Drivers has just started on Talking Pictures.

Stanley Baker, Herbert Lom, Sidney James amongst others.

Amazing cast: Patrick McGoohan, David McCallum, Gordon Jackson, William Hartnell, pre-Bond Sean Connery, Peggy Cummins.

The plot premise is of course ridiculous but still a classic film.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 09 February, 2020, 03:15:58 pm
And another new series, a second of “Hidden”, on BBC4. I wasn’t too taken with the first series - I was hoping for more Hinterland as the team behind it was the same, but was disappointed. Still, will give this new series a try.
Thx for the heads up
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 09 February, 2020, 10:08:00 pm
The L Shaped Room has just started on Talking Pictures.  Small part in the opening scenes as "Youth on the Street" by Cherie Blair's dad.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 09 February, 2020, 10:59:56 pm
2300 tonight, on Drama we have Gregory's Girl.

All that fuss over a bit of tit.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: sg37409 on 09 February, 2020, 11:27:31 pm
2300 tonight, on Drama we have Gregory's Girl.

All that fuss over a bit of tit.

Don’t touch the ravioli - it’s garbage
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 10 February, 2020, 07:08:59 pm
the first half of the Agatha Christie thing was rather good (something Pale Horse something?). rufus Sewell being delightfully smarmy, yet troubled.

Digging the 60s interiors. Man.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 18 February, 2020, 02:16:32 pm
Homeland Series 8.  C4.  Needs recording really, given all the frequent, copious adverts.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 21 February, 2020, 10:29:17 pm
Billy Bragg talking about the skiffle craze of the 50s. It may be a repeat, but I've not seen it before. He delivers with passion and knowledge, although the cap he sports in some scenes is a bit dodgy. BBC4 now, just finishing.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 21 February, 2020, 11:01:14 pm
the first half of the Agatha Christie thing was rather good (something Pale Horse something?). rufus Sewell being delightfully smarmy, yet troubled.

Digging the 60s interiors. Man.


...but the 2nd half.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Rowan on 21 February, 2020, 11:29:28 pm
the first half of the Agatha Christie thing was rather good (something Pale Horse something?). rufus Sewell being delightfully smarmy, yet troubled.

Digging the 60s interiors. Man.


...but the 2nd half.
we are going to re-watch the 2nd half, just couldn't really work out what it was about, not much really added up - may be it was for very clever people who can do the times cryptic crossword in 25 seconds.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 22 February, 2020, 12:23:31 am
^ this
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 22 February, 2020, 08:17:10 am
Billy Bragg talking about the skiffle craze of the 50s. It may be a repeat, but I've not seen it before. He delivers with passion and knowledge, although the cap he sports in some scenes is a bit dodgy. BBC4 now, just finishing.

I saw that too. Really interesting even though I don't like skiffle. The knock on effect the craze had on 60s music is amazing. The Chaz and Dave documentary after it was brilliant too, don't like their stuff either but Chaz's early career was fascinating and they seem(ed - Chaz died in 2018) like nice guys.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 25 February, 2020, 08:42:25 am
^ this
Oh.  We watched the first half last night.  Going to watch the second half for completeness but I'm not holding out much hope now...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 08 March, 2020, 06:43:16 pm
Paris-Nice is on ITV4 at the moment.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 17 March, 2020, 10:22:03 pm
Trigonometry.

Ep1 was brilliant.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 18 March, 2020, 07:55:00 pm
Homeland Series 8.  C4.  Needs recording really, given all the frequent, copious adverts.

I thought it really kicked off this week! Great episode.

[And Carrie was (possibly) not the maddest character in it :P ]
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 19 March, 2020, 07:06:09 am
Hidden - second series is not worth watching. Waste of 6 hours of my life. Don’t bother.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 19 March, 2020, 12:44:57 pm
Oh.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 31 March, 2020, 09:48:56 am
Hinterland

Small budget, good cinematography. Good acting. Old-fashioned cop show.

Interesting fact; every scene was shot twice, in English and in Welsh.

Deserves more attention, IMO. Equal of most of the scandi noir that is all the rage.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 31 March, 2020, 10:18:05 am
Hinterland

Small budget, good cinematography. Good acting. Old-fashioned cop show.

Interesting fact; every scene was shot twice, in English and in Welsh.

Deserves more attention, IMO. Equal of most of the scandi noir that is all the rage.

Hidden - second series is not worth watching. Waste of 6 hours of my life. Don’t bother.

Both created by the same team. I wouldn't go quite as far as AH, but the second Hidden was not as good as the first and neither as good as any of the 3 Hinterlands. It was a bold move to make it a whydunnit rather than a whodunnit, or, at least, to let us know who the perps were from the start.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 31 March, 2020, 05:54:50 pm
"The Five"

I wanted to like this, but the directors hollywood ambition and increasingly unlikely plot line made it a 'lets get it over with' series instead, once I had invested in the first half.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 02 April, 2020, 07:00:40 am
Hinterland

Small budget, good cinematography. Good acting. Old-fashioned cop show.

Interesting fact; every scene was shot twice, in English and in Welsh.

Deserves more attention, IMO. Equal of most of the scandi noir that is all the rage.
+1 to all that!

It's been very odd seeing the lead actor turn-up in other stuff; I keep expecting that welsh accent, and a tortured taciturn persona! Still, the lad's done well. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 02 April, 2020, 08:42:51 am
Even odder that his equally taciturn sidekick DI Mared Rhys (Mali Hughes) is now spendthrift entrepreneur Natasha Archer in the Archers. It's weird how these professional actors can pretend to be very different people.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: telstarbox on 04 April, 2020, 09:53:49 am
The Nest on BBC1 / iPlayer. Some slightly obvious acting but good overall. Enjoying the Glasgow setting.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 04 April, 2020, 11:23:45 am
Even odder that his equally taciturn sidekick DI Mared Rhys (Mali Hughes) is now spendthrift entrepreneur Natasha Archer in the Archers. It's weird how these professional actors can pretend to be very different people.
I know !!!!
Do you think anyone else has noticed??
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 04 April, 2020, 01:24:16 pm
Has she changed her name?  ;)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 06 April, 2020, 06:17:04 am
Watching 'The First' on Prime, which is good...except once again they're putting all their diversity on one character. Why are so many strong female black characters gay?. It just seems so lazy to me. That or it's a cop-out. "Hey, that should tick all the diversity boxes..job done!".
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 08 April, 2020, 05:29:20 pm
From, I think, next Monday on iPlayer, series 3 of Killing Eve.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Wowbagger on 09 April, 2020, 06:26:36 pm
Tonight, on More 4, there's this:

https://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-great-british-dig-history-in-your?fbclid=IwAR1AeMBdf2_W_iaCVFT38t7uRebeD5kfelO2Ih4yUFb3vUHNuEFY5oqByoM

It's from Florence Road, Maidstone, and my daughter and family may well be featured. They actually live in an adjacent road but some of it took place in friends' gardens and they were on hand to see what was going on. Both daughter and her husband are history teachers so it's pretty close to their hearts.

I will have to find out how to work the television.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 26 April, 2020, 07:17:29 pm
Didn't realise Killing Eve s3 had started already
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 26 April, 2020, 07:25:42 pm
Didn't realise Killing Eve s3 had started already

Ah I did post about it when it was announced for iPlayer, but neglected to repost once the terrestrial showing began.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 26 April, 2020, 07:42:18 pm
Is it better than s2?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 26 April, 2020, 09:28:24 pm
Can’t say. We generally wait and record all episodes before watching (though in this case all are available on iPlayer. We’re still catching up with Baghdad Central! 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 26 April, 2020, 10:04:53 pm
Watched ep1. It's really more of a comedy now....
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 27 April, 2020, 11:51:39 pm
For convoluted reasons[1], this week I have been mostly watching For All Mankind, an alternate history of USAnian space exploration based on the premise of the Soviets beating them to the moon and Nixon[2] (and later Ted Kennedy) responding by lobbing massive amounts of cash in NASA's general direction.

It comes across as a sort of medium-budget distascopic version of Mary Robinette Kowal's Lady Astronaut series, by which I mean highly recommended.  The Jerrie Cob character is just brilliant, and they've taken strong inspiration from Poppy Nortcutt and Mary Jackson.  They've also got a really good Deke Slayton and a couple of guys called Neil and Buzz who you wouldn't trust to park your spaceship.  At risk of committing soilers, the series takes a more direct approach to the issue of Von Braun than The Calculating Stars did.

Occasional technical goofs are intermingled with handwaves at rapidly accelerated technological development, which works just fine.  Politically, it's a mixed bag.  We don't get to see the Soviet side of things, which is a shame.  The story levels up around episode 4.

Eminently watchable.  With any luck Series 2 will eventually get made.


[1] I randomly stumbled across a Youtube comment from someone who worked on the series talking about crappy power supplies.
[2] Who is primarily represented in the series by a close-up of the now legendary compact reel-to-reel tape recorder.  Lols.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 03 May, 2020, 12:19:02 pm
It’s not on until next Saturday, but I recommend The Lunchbox, BBC2 @ 12:25am. Shown as a tribute to Irrfan Khan, who died this week.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 04 May, 2020, 02:02:37 pm
Homeland Season 8 on C4, series finale aired yesterday...   :)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 05 May, 2020, 08:22:05 pm
You lot seem like the kind of people DEVS is aimed at. Anyone managed to stick with it?

We've made it halfway, but decided we'll probably watch the last one just to see how it turns out. It's really not half as clever as it thinks it is. Nor half as original. Looks good though.

(and what a waste of Nick Offerman ... )
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 07 May, 2020, 05:51:30 pm
Hunt for the Wilderpeople on Film4
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fuzzy on 07 May, 2020, 10:45:41 pm
After the Queens speech re VE day tomorrow evening on BBC TV, there is apparently going to be a 'Peoples Tribute' snips of film of folk from around the UK singing "We'll Meet Again". The BBC might have sent someone out to film at a bike shop where one of us on here works.....
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: IanDG on 07 May, 2020, 11:43:27 pm
Just finished watching 'Normal People' on I-player (BBC3). Can give it a  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: eckagain on 08 May, 2020, 11:36:33 am
You lot seem lie the kind of people DEVS is aimed at. Anyone managed to stick with it?

We've made it halfway, but decided we'll probably watch the last one just to see how it turns out. It's really not half as clever as it thinks it is. Nor half as original. Looks good though.

(and what a waste of Nick Offerman ... )
Like mattc, I stuck with it just to see how it turned out. Wish I hadn't bothered.
It wasn't DEVS see? It's DEUS
Aye, very clever.  ::-)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 08 May, 2020, 10:59:26 pm
Spaced, all of Series 1 tonight (well, most of it into tomorrow) on C4. I didn't catch it first time round.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 18 May, 2020, 07:46:18 pm
Not exactly tonight, as it’s on All4, but Green Wing. I’d forgotten just how good it was.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 18 May, 2020, 09:24:54 pm
We started watching that having never seen it before. I found the camera style a bit irritating.


And for Cardinal fans apparently there is a new series coming to the BBC 'soon'
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 19 May, 2020, 09:50:17 am
And for Cardinal fans apparently there is a new series coming to the BBC 'soon'

Ooh good news.

We might give Life on Mars a try - somehow missed it completely (see also Ashes to Ashes)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 19 May, 2020, 06:41:33 pm
And for Cardinal fans apparently there is a new series coming to the BBC 'soon'

Ooh good news.

Bad news: it will be the final series. Chiz.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 19 May, 2020, 08:40:06 pm
Watching the re-runs of Misfits.

Wow. Much cleverer, more original , and with much less annoying characters than I'd expected. Why didn't people tell me about this?

(and why are their phones so small?)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 21 May, 2020, 02:59:38 am
At risk of committing soilers, the series takes a more direct approach to the issue of Von Braun than The Calculating Stars did.


What..they put him on trial for war crimes? :) (Just started watching this)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fuzzy on 21 May, 2020, 11:27:01 pm
Horizon tonight was a very frank look at the effect mental health issues have had on Tony Slattery.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 22 May, 2020, 08:11:46 am
At risk of committing soilers, the series takes a more direct approach to the issue of Von Braun than The Calculating Stars did.


What..they put him on trial for war crimes? :) (Just started watching this)

A bit further along. Way too much ambiguity with Von Braun. Sure, he got shunned, but that was seemingly it.
Also, there's some hilariously bad VFX.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 22 May, 2020, 08:55:41 am
And for Cardinal fans apparently there is a new series coming to the BBC 'soon'

Ooh good news.

We might give Life on Mars a try - somehow missed it completely (see also Ashes to Ashes)

It was, in its day, one of the best things on TV. Might seem a bit dated now.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Basil on 22 May, 2020, 09:32:06 am
I notice that Professor Jim Al-Khalili's 'Science and Islam' is available for a while again on IPlayer.
Worth catching if you've missed it up till now.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 22 May, 2020, 09:56:45 am
I notice that Professor Jim Al-Khalili's 'Science and Islam' is available for a while again on IPlayer.
Worth catching if you've missed it up till now.

+1 I'm watching it again.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 22 May, 2020, 10:59:52 pm
I notice that Professor Jim Al-Khalili's 'Science and Islam' is available for a while again on IPlayer.
Worth catching if you've missed it up till now.
Saw a thing with him on bbc4 last night, not sure if it’s new or not, about the history of chemistry. Jolly good it was too.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 22 May, 2020, 11:20:25 pm
Sounds like a new series of What We Do In The Shadows will appear soon on BBC2
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 30 May, 2020, 09:05:26 pm
Sounds like a new series of What We Do In The Shadows will appear soon on BBC2

There's a series? (Googles) Ah, BBC. Never mind.

In other news the final season of Agents of SHIELD (by far the best Marvel TV series, though I'd do numerous very bad things to get Agent Carter back), so there will be tears. Already awesome, because

(click to show/hide)

Only twelve episodes and we watched four last night. Pleasure is, by definition, ephemeral. Unless it involves deeply implanted electrodes and a power supply with UPS.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 30 May, 2020, 09:39:40 pm
Sounds like a new series of What We Do In The Shadows will appear soon on BBC2

There's a series? (Googles) Ah, BBC. Never mind.


Huh? It's the same cast
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 01 June, 2020, 10:01:13 am
Sorry, I meant 'ah, BBC' in that I don't have the BBC. Well, we finally extricated ourselves from the TV licence anyway a few months back. But I would watch it otherwise, as I loved the movie.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 01 June, 2020, 12:06:07 pm
The Big Flower Fight on Netflix is worth watching - it's yet another variant on the competitive crafts theme, following the same tired formula as the rest of them, but it's the cast of characters that really makes it. They've gone to great lengths to make sure all the diversity boxes have been ticked, and it's all the more watchable for it.

One of the judges is called Kristen Griffith-Vanderyacht, and lives up to his name.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 02 June, 2020, 08:38:13 am
The Big Flower Fight on Netflix is worth watching - it's yet another variant on the competitive crafts theme, following the same tired formula as the rest of them, but it's the cast of characters that really makes it. They've gone to great lengths to make sure all the diversity boxes have been ticked, and it's all the more watchable for it.

One of the judges is called Kristen Griffith-Vanderyacht, and lives up to his name.

It's spelled "Griffith-Vanderyacht" but it's pronounced "Throatwobbler-Mangrove"?

(Exit, pursued by the the Python Police)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 02 June, 2020, 04:20:54 pm
Buffy The Vampire Slayer, E4 2310. Go on, you know you want to.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 03 June, 2020, 07:27:32 am
Buffy The Vampire Slayer, E4 2310. Go on, you know you want to.
We did - Ep1 was good. Certainly better than most current "hit" US series!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 03 June, 2020, 07:41:09 pm
Cardinal is on BBC2 tonight.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 03 June, 2020, 08:26:27 pm
Cardinal is on BBC2 tonight.

I just saw the trailer and it said tomorrow...  ???

I bet that's my wife confusing me by watching a recorded programme from yesterday.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 04 June, 2020, 09:48:17 pm
I see they've sneaked a new series of QI out without me noticing.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 15 June, 2020, 07:25:51 am
War and Peace on BBC iPlayer

I missed this first time round but it just popped up on iPlayer. Watched the first episode last night and it was excellent. Great cast, Brian Cox, Ade Edmundson, Gretta Scacchi, Gillian Anderson, Rebeccas Front.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 01 July, 2020, 07:08:35 pm
Thank you, yacfers, for introducing me to Cardinal. Just starting the second series...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Blodwyn Pig on 01 July, 2020, 07:51:39 pm
repair  shop, 8 oclock
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: SteveC on 02 July, 2020, 05:29:56 pm
repair  shop, 8 oclock
8.15, only a 45 minute episode...which MrsC failed to record  :-\
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: nobby on 02 July, 2020, 07:40:51 pm
Tess of the D'Urbervilles 2000 BBC4
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Basil on 06 July, 2020, 08:23:47 pm
Just dicovered 'i may destroy you' and have devoured it on IPlayer.
You may remember Michaela Coel in other BBC efforts like Black Earth Rising, but this is a completely different role to anything I've seen her do before.
Apparently written and produced by her.
Highly recommended.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 10 July, 2020, 01:01:39 pm
^ The writeup about it made it sound a bit hard hitting and hard going for a pleasant night in.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 10 July, 2020, 03:19:03 pm
repair  shop, 8 oclock
8.15, only a 45 minute episode...which MrsC failed to record  :-\
iPlayer?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: SteveC on 10 July, 2020, 05:08:18 pm
repair  shop, 8 oclock
8.15, only a 45 minute episode...which MrsC failed to record  :-\
iPlayer?
Couldn't find it on iPlayer either. All the episodes which seemed to be available were ones we had already watched. No matter. GetiPlayerAtomator will sort.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 10 July, 2020, 10:17:56 pm
The Rocky Horror Picture Show is on Talking Pictures TV right now.

(almost Ob. Cycling) Any of you guys know how to Madison?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 13 July, 2020, 08:20:13 pm
Rise of the Nazis on BBC4. Ep1.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 17 July, 2020, 05:32:52 pm
Trying to find things on Amazon Prime before we cancel it.

Watching Mr Robot - not convinced, it requires actual attention to follow what's going on (so I can't watch and browse/work) but I don't know that it pays off on the effort required.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: eckagain on 21 July, 2020, 06:41:29 pm
Chernobyl is being repeated, first episode of five, this Friday 9pm, on Sky Atlantic.
If you missed it last time, don't miss it again.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 21 July, 2020, 08:24:26 pm
Sky. That'll be a miss again then.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 25 July, 2020, 09:12:38 pm
Not tonight, but no doubt on iPlayer if you missed the beginnings Once Upon a Time in Iraq. What an indictment of the invasion. Blistering stuff.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 25 July, 2020, 10:57:57 pm
We just finished watching DEVS.
It was alright, but yeah it took too long to get to the end and nothing really happened.
Still, it looked nice.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 26 July, 2020, 12:07:54 am
^ Watched the last episode this evening.  I thought it was rather poor - bad enough that I resented watching the second half of the series just to see where they were going.  Some immensely poor acting/script-writing.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fuzzy on 26 July, 2020, 11:33:48 pm
Mrs F has recently gained access to More4. As a result, she is watching lots of Walter Presents stuff.
There are some cracking dramas on there.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 26 July, 2020, 11:46:55 pm
^ I enjoyed "Spin" and a number of German and Skandi shows. There's a lot of "foreign trash" though, so you need to keep an eye out.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 31 July, 2020, 11:59:17 am
Mrs L and I are watching Waking The Dead from the beginning, on iPlayer.  How dated do cars from 2000 look?  Makes me feel old...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 31 July, 2020, 12:19:29 pm
Not tonight, but no doubt on iPlayer if you missed the beginnings Once Upon a Time in Iraq. What an indictment of the invasion. Blistering stuff.
Agreed. Painful to watch at times. Thought-provoking. I'm learning a lot, mostly about the  number of untruths, the level of incompetence, the misjudgements and the missed opportunities by the Americans (I knew it was bad, but...); and the effect all that had on the innocent inhabitants of Iraq. Just what happens when you go to war, I suppose, and haven't thought about what you need to do when you win.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 04 August, 2020, 11:37:16 am
The Edge on BBC2 on Sunday evening was very good. It covered the arc of the the England test team from one 5-0 disastrous Ashes series to another, having reached No 1in the world in between; roughly Andy Flowers' period as head coach from 2007-2015. It was less about the cricket itself than the effects (good and bad) test cricket and a certain style of management had on the players. And it featured some candid interviews with the likes of KP, Jonathan Trott, Steven Finn, Andrew Strauss and Andy Flower. Also a mix of behind-the-scenes and tv footage, and some original 'arty' shots. The blurb described it as 'funny' but I must have missed those bits unless they were referring to Graeme Swann's arsing around, or Jonathan Trott's OCD. Or maybe it was because Toby Jones was narrating, which was fine, but jarred a bit when things got dark.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 05 August, 2020, 09:53:50 am
Mrs Legs and I were watching this Grand Designs (https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x52ltou) a few nights ago and were struck by the lack of compliance to Part K of the Building Regulations (38:30 through).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Quisling on 05 August, 2020, 04:26:45 pm
The third series of Norsemen (billed as Series 0 since it's a prequel) on Netflix.  Provides some great background to the characters who were introduced in Series 1.  Fantastic scandi comedy and well acted.  Not for the kids though - frequent themes of sex and violence (well, they are Vikings....)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 08 August, 2020, 11:33:01 am
Chernobyl mini series, with a NowTV one week free trial...  Very well done.  Scary to think how much worse the disaster could have been.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 08 August, 2020, 12:43:21 pm
There's no shortage of worse disasters to choose from.  They tend to involve killing lots of brown people, and don't involve anything nuclear, so tend not to get films made about them.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_industrial_disasters
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 08 August, 2020, 01:38:17 pm
There's no shortage of worse disasters to choose from.  They tend to involve killing lots of brown people, and don't involve anything nuclear, so tend not to get films made about them.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_industrial_disasters

Possible Chernobyl series spoiler, if you don't know the events...

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 08 August, 2020, 07:40:24 pm
There's no shortage of worse disasters to choose from.  They tend to involve killing lots of brown people, and don't involve anything nuclear, so tend not to get films made about them.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_industrial_disasters

Bhopal is the one that comes to mind first.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 August, 2020, 11:50:34 pm
There's no shortage of worse disasters to choose from.  They tend to involve killing lots of brown people, and don't involve anything nuclear, so tend not to get films made about them.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_industrial_disasters

Bhopal is the one that comes to mind first.

A former employer did manage to flog Union Carbide their The Product, viz. the Suite for the Assessment of Flammable, Explosive and Toxic Impacts.  Unfortunately about three years after Bhopal.  That the scale of the disaster vindicated our mathematical models was scant consolation.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 11 August, 2020, 11:46:55 am
Well worth catching on iPlayer...

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000ljnb
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 11 August, 2020, 11:01:32 pm
The Edge on BBC2 on Sunday evening was very good. It covered the arc of the the England test team from one 5-0 disastrous Ashes series to another, having reached No 1in the world in between; roughly Andy Flowers' period as head coach from 2007-2015. It was less about the cricket itself than the effects (good and bad) test cricket and a certain style of management had on the players. And it featured some candid interviews with the likes of KP, Jonathan Trott, Steven Finn, Andrew Strauss and Andy Flower. Also a mix of behind-the-scenes and tv footage, and some original 'arty' shots. The blurb described it as 'funny' but I must have missed those bits unless they were referring to Graeme Swann's arsing around, or Jonathan Trott's OCD. Or maybe it was because Toby Jones was narrating, which was fine, but jarred a bit when things got dark.
Caught the 2nd half - surprisingly good. That squad were a very diverse bunch, they did well to give us insight into so many different personalities.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 16 August, 2020, 09:20:21 am
Another iPlayer programme worth a watch, The Australian Dream about Adam Goode’s, an Indigenous  AFL player and the racism he suffered. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000lpv7

And for those with access to PBS, today and tomorrow the informative, and somewhat depressing (to me anyway) The Truth About Fat
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: geoff on 27 August, 2020, 04:47:10 pm
Might be giving Baron Noir (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baron_Noir) a go..., whilst waiting for Season 5 of The Bureau (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bureau_(TV_series))
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 31 August, 2020, 04:04:03 pm
If you are considering watching Mr Robot on Prime and ...
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: eckagain on 15 September, 2020, 07:36:30 am
The David Millar "Time Trial" fillum is on the BBC Scotlandshire channel this Saturday 19th at 9pm.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: robgul on 15 September, 2020, 07:42:58 am
The David Millar "Time Trial" fillum is on the BBC Scotlandshire channel this Saturday 19th at 9pm.  :thumbsup:

Prepare to be disappointed . . . . . . . in my opinion anyway - I saw it at a "special screening" and along with most of the audience came away having felt it was a waste of the ticket price.

Cue othere comments . . .
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 15 September, 2020, 11:49:54 am
BBC4, Saturday 21:00  The second TV series of Mystery Road. The dramatisation of the Jay Swan stories, a character originally seen in the films Mystery Road and Goldstone.

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 15 September, 2020, 12:18:25 pm
BBC4, Saturday 21:00  The second TV series of Mystery Road. The dramatisation of the Jay Swan stories, a character originally seen in the films Mystery Road and Goldstone.

One day I'll get round to watching Series 1, which has been a-lurking in the innards of the Memory-Box since it was first broadcast  :D
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: eckagain on 18 September, 2020, 08:22:18 pm
I'm not saying it's "worth watching" but The Armstrong Lie is on Sky Documentaries at 9pm... if you like That Sort of Thing™?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: geoff on 18 September, 2020, 09:46:11 pm
The long-awaited season 5 of The Bureau... Now available on the Sundance Now bit of Prime video in the UK. 10 Eps a must watch. Just need Spiral S8 to complete the box sets...

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bureau_(TV_series)

Sent from my STF-L09 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Andy W on 19 September, 2020, 06:22:16 am
Just watched DES. A programme about Denis Nielsen a serial killer. Really awful, macabre scenes, turned my stomach., Mrs W really wanted to watch it, and we ended up discussing what on earth would turn someone into a monster. On a lighter note, looking at film of London 1980 looks like a different country. I think there's a, saying that goes"the past is a different country ".
Earlier on this thread, Legs said year 2000 looks old, I agree, but looking at the 1980 footage of 1970s motor transport reminded me of having to bump start both my motorbike and my dad's car. Squirting a product stalled Danp Start into the carburettor to aid starting. Driving a car with steamed up windows, whilst operating the choke, steering, changing gear etc. Funny how watching a programme sets off a whole series of memories. Wish I was 19 again, motorbikes and women and not a care in the world.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: eckagain on 21 September, 2020, 09:23:06 am
The David Millar "Time Trial" fillum is on the BBC Scotlandshire channel this Saturday 19th at 9pm.  :thumbsup:

Prepare to be disappointed . . . . . . . in my opinion anyway - I saw it at a "special screening" and along with most of the audience came away having felt it was a waste of the ticket price.

Cue othere comments . . .
Aye robgul, I see what you mean. Ok, some excellent visuals, especially the wet Milan - San Remo,  but it came across as more than a little self-indulgent.
Cue other comments . . .
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 25 September, 2020, 09:37:07 pm
Quite enjoying The Boys (two episodes in, admittedly). Karl Urban's British accent is a bit unique (as is Simon Pegg's American).

Basically imagine if the Superheroes everyone worshipped were actually a bunch of uber-cunts working for a company that makes a merger between big oil and big tobacco look like a philanthropic venture. Well, you don't have to, some else did.

I'm not sure how they're going to run it for two seasons. I liked the novel deployment method for plastique. That's one way to get around a superpower.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 26 September, 2020, 12:29:13 am
Tehran.

Watched the first episode tonight and it looks promising. It is possible I’ll have to watch the rest on my own...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 01 October, 2020, 04:27:46 pm
Enjoying The Boys even more now. It's very dark, funny, and far pacier than the Netflix superhero sludge. I have grown to like Karl Urban's British accent (there's a few jokes about it in the script, which is nice) and he delivers every 'cunt' with very British aplomb. Most Americans struggle to squeeze the C-bomb out, it's like they're born constricted – if you're going to C-bomb you can't hesitate half-way through the word, it's like holding onto a grenade after you've pulled the pin. Throw the fucker. And he throws. It's almost like he's been to Proper Swearing School. Or possibly a Wetherspoons.

The not-so-superheroes are quite good too. Homelander is a spendidly psychotic lactation-obsessed alt-Captain America. This isn't a programme for small children, btw.

Some of the set pieces have made me laugh hard. The unfortunate demise of the dolphin made me snort, but laser baby was even better.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 01 October, 2020, 05:10:36 pm
Quite enjoying The Boys (two episodes in, admittedly). Karl Urban's British accent is a bit unique (as is Simon Pegg's American).
...

Also watching.  Look out for the noticeable* lapse from the Urban British accent into NZ/downunder in one of the episodes...  ;)

ETA * "no one's gonna hurt you son"
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 01 October, 2020, 07:29:21 pm
Actually, I didn't realise he's a Kiwi, which I think partly explains why we spent the first episode wondering if he was an American trying to be Australian and somehow through the process of linguistic triangulation arrive at British.

I did like the way Amazon put a warning before the first episode that promised every form of swearing, violence, and sex. To be honest, it had me at that.

ETA: just how fucking good are the Kiwi's at swearing anyway? The ones at work are very mild-mannered.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 October, 2020, 10:10:47 pm
Actually, I didn't realise he's a Kiwi, which I think partly explains why we spent the first episode wondering if he was an American trying to be Australian and somehow through the process of linguistic triangulation arrive at British.

I did like the way Amazon put a warning before the first episode that promised every form of swearing, violence, and sex. To be honest, it had me at that.

ETA: just how fucking good are the Kiwi's at swearing anyway? The ones at work are very mild-mannered.

Kiwis pride themselves on being more sophisticated than Australians; which is to say that they don't feel the need to bloody swear in every bloody sentence.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 02 October, 2020, 10:04:43 am
What if you take their beetroot? I reckon that would rile them. Jacinda would probably be on the news demanding its return. I can't really imagine her yelling 'give it back, you fucking cunt!' at the camera.

Actually, I can, and it's quite nice. She seems quite good at most things. I bet she can conjure up a good swear.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 02 October, 2020, 12:55:31 pm
The very thought of that makes me slightly aroused...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 October, 2020, 04:10:27 pm
What if you take their beetroot? I reckon that would rile them. Jacinda would probably be on the news demanding its return. I can't really imagine her yelling 'give it back, you fucking cunt!' at the camera.

Actually, I can, and it's quite nice. She seems quite good at most things. I bet she can conjure up a good swear.

She wouldn't yell. (neither does Karl Urban, that's part of the skill of swear).

She'd drop the c*nt bombs precisely and calmly.

Calm down, Legs.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 02 October, 2020, 04:20:47 pm
I like to think that somewhere, at some time, there will be a brief TV segment entitled Jacinda Swears. She'll pop up on screen, smile, and simply and savagely swear something like 'you cunting fucksockets'. The will be a final moment more of calm smiling and fade to black. The end.

They really should put me in charge of TV.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: perpetual dan on 09 October, 2020, 07:57:27 pm
I'm enjoying the Adventure Show on BBC Scotland at the moment, some cycling, a bit of "i can go about 48 hours before i keel over"...

Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 09 October, 2020, 08:38:50 pm
Finished season one of The Boys. I declare it very, very good. You see the ending coming, but it's worth it, and you knew that was going to be a very short-lived promotion. I guess Homelander may have to switch to Cravendale.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 15 October, 2020, 07:06:49 am
As ever, Storyville didn't disappoint, this time with an amazing 2-parter: 'The Mole: Infiltrating North Korea'. In which a couple of Danes expose the DPRK's finest sanctions busters; the Mole being an unassuming ex-chef on benefits who plays the long-game (over 10 tears), mainly on behalf of a documentary maker, and without his wife's knowledge. And that description barely scratches the surface. eg there's a proposed underground methamphetamine and weapons underground factory on an island in Lake Victoria, an island which the Ugandans are happy to clear of its inhabitants for the dosh, no questions asked.

And from the ridiculous to the also ridiculous - the new series of Taskmaster starts tonight. Yay! Promoted from Dave to C4.

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 15 October, 2020, 06:13:07 pm
Yay indeed!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 17 October, 2020, 12:05:22 am
Quite enjoying The Boys (two episodes in, admittedly). Karl Urban's British accent is a bit unique (as is Simon Pegg's American).
Series one I was a bit dubious about, not as dark as the original.  Series two departs from the script into much more new territory - I like.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 31 October, 2020, 12:46:55 pm
Quest's ongoing UFO-themed Friday night programming is one of the funniest things out there, particularly the “Alien Contact” show, in which an intense tattooed ex-CIA man and a balding scientist use “groundbreaking CIA-developed software, military special operations investigative techniques and boots-on-the-ground journalism to track down leads around the world”.  Last week one of their teams investigated a “mysterious” concrete pad in the middle of nowhere, KS.  “It's huge!  It's incredible!  It's many other superlatives!  It's…”

… a decommissioned Atlas ICBM silo :facepalm:

Meanwhile the team in Bariloche, Argentina, discover a “mysterious” lake island.  A local boat captain agrees to land them but refuses to come ashore because Woooooo!  Scary!!1!  They discover “mysterious” ruins.  “It's huge!  It's incredible!  It's many other superlatives!  It's…”

…what’s left of a 1950s nuclear fusion project which has its own Wikinaccurate page and has been a regular tourist attraction since 1975.  And so on.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 31 October, 2020, 03:48:52 pm
I know I’m late to the party but I finally watched an episode of Task Master last night.

Damn, it’s good. I laughed a *lot*.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ElyDave on 31 October, 2020, 04:04:39 pm
Just recently come across Taskmaster as well, superbly silly.

Tonight wil be a rugbyfest though while I try to avoid That Dancing Programme
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 31 October, 2020, 05:41:59 pm
Oh wow, you two have got so much fun to catch up on!
I can recommend the Hometasking videos on the Taskmaster You Tube channel too when you run out of the repeats on Dave.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 31 October, 2020, 05:50:09 pm
I know I’m late to the party but I finally watched an episode of Task Master last night.

Damn, it’s good. I laughed a *lot*.
I think that all the episodes of Taskmaster are on All4.

May have mentioned it in the tenuous claims to fame thread, but I was at Sidney Sussex with Alex (and Rachel) Horne.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 31 October, 2020, 09:26:22 pm
I think that all the episodes of Taskmaster are on All4.

Yes, there was an advert in the episode I watched to highlight this. I have a lot of catching up to do! And the YouTube vids as well (thanks, Mrs P).

Quote
May have mentioned it in the tenuous claims to fame thread, but I was at Sidney Sussex with Alex (and Rachel) Horne.

My son’s girlfriend thinks I look like Alex Horne. Not sure whether to take that as a compliment.

And while we’re on tenuous claims to fame, I’ve met Greg Davies. He’s even taller in real life than he looks on the telly. And just as funny.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 31 October, 2020, 10:41:23 pm
Ah, but if you record the repeats on Dave on a PVR you can skip through all the shitverts (h/t Mr Larrington) which you can't on All 4.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 31 October, 2020, 11:27:56 pm
“Shitverts” was Lobachevskid off of TV's Charlie Brooker.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 01 November, 2020, 12:25:00 pm
May have mentioned it in the tenuous claims to fame thread, but I was at Sidney Sussex with Alex (and Rachel) Horne.

Despite not sitting anywhere near the front, I was once 'picked on', in a very mild way, by Alex Horne, at one of his Edinburgh shows.

Fans of his will probably also like the 'No More Jockeys' YouTube channel, which fratures a weekly parlour game he plays with his friends Tim Key and Mark Watson. It's more inconsequential silliness.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 November, 2020, 09:54:32 pm
S2 of “His Dark Materials” kicked off tonight unnoticed by this Unit but fortunately Professor Larrington e-mailed me a reminder and get_iPlayer is now strutting its funky Stuffs.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 08 November, 2020, 09:57:01 pm
S2 of “His Dark Materials” kicked off tonight unnoticed by this Unit but fortunately Professor Larrington e-mailed me a reminder and get_iPlayer is now strutting its funky Stuffs.

Yeah they sneaked that one out. Fortunately I spotted it before we started watching the Vuelta.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 09 November, 2020, 12:09:03 am
Apparently the subtitles can't speel 'daemon' or 'anbaric' properly   :facepalm:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 12 November, 2020, 08:31:25 am
Oh wow, you two have got so much fun to catch up on!
I can recommend the Hometasking videos on the Taskmaster You Tube channel too when you run out of the repeats on Dave.

Made a start on Project Catch Up With Task Master last night. It's perfect wind-down telly after a stressful day at work.

I've seen the clip of Romesh Ranganathan and Tim Key attacking a watermelon before, but it still had me laughing so hard I couldn't breathe.

Is Greg Davies the best game show host ever? I'd love to see him presenting a 'straight' game show - he'd be brilliant on something like Tipping Point.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 12 November, 2020, 08:36:16 am
Wind down TV for me is Richard Osman's House of Games.

Any show where the answer to a question is "Alexander Graham Belly Button" is alright in my book. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 12 November, 2020, 09:23:48 am
Wind down TV for me is Richard Osman's House of Games.

Any show where the answer to a question is "Alexander Graham Belly Button" is alright in my book.

That's another one I came late to, but I love it lots. Always forget to watch it though - should set a reminder on the box...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 13 November, 2020, 06:27:17 pm
Absolutely anything rather than Children In sodding Need…
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 13 November, 2020, 06:35:37 pm
Absolutely anything rather than Children In sodding Need…

I often go and visit my mum near her birthday. Usually arrive Friday night and am then subjected to CIN by my brother all night.
This should be in the Coronabonus thread really.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Basil on 14 November, 2020, 12:27:07 am
We were prepared for CiN night.  We binge watched 'Queen's Gambit' on that Netflix.  Very good.  I think I survived 4 or 5 episodes before sloping off to bed, which is not bad for a non telly watcher.  Mrs B finished it. And the bottle of wine.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 14 November, 2020, 08:57:34 am
We completely missed CIN last night, which was a bonus. We played “Haven’t a Fucking Cluedo”. It’s a family board game where the winner is the one player who hasn’t made an incorrect accusation.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 14 November, 2020, 09:09:20 am
Only saw one CIN program - DIYSOS contructing a centre for Surfability charity;  impressive.  https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m000pbx6/diy-sos-children-in-need-special-2020-caswell-bay
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 14 November, 2020, 01:14:28 pm
Absolutely anything rather than Children In sodding Need…

I've just discovered it was Children In Need yesterday.  The only CIN content I encountered was That Nice Mr Paulley cremating a Pudsey on Twitter (https://twitter.com/Doug_Paulley/status/1327336479232811008), and that's the sort of angry crip randomness I've come to expect from him, so failed to make the connection.

I accidentally spent the evening writing a non-blocking NTP client in Arduino-friendly C, instead.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 20 November, 2020, 06:22:21 pm
Wind down TV for me is Richard Osman's House of Games.

Any show where the answer to a question is "Alexander Graham Belly Button" is alright in my book.

That's another one I came late to, but I love it lots. Always forget to watch it though - should set a reminder on the box...
It's even better this week. Anglea Barnes
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 23 November, 2020, 12:04:07 am
On iPlayer for a few more days, The Secret Life Of The Berlin Wall.  Not actually that much about the Anti-Fascist Protection Barrier itself, but more about the DDR and the Stasi and suchlike.  Godspeed You! Black Emperor feature prominently on the soundtrack too, which is a bonus.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 27 November, 2020, 10:00:49 am
Apologies for being one of those people who discovers something long after everyone else and then won't stop going on about it, but...

Had a mini-binge last night to catch up on recent Task Master episodes and nearly died laughing. Literally. I was actually choking. But there would be worse ways to go.

Still chuckling this morning at the thought of turning up to the office and having to explain, "Sorry I'm late for work - Johnny Vegas put me in a Christmas tree bagging machine."
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rob on 27 November, 2020, 10:43:38 am
Apologies for being one of those people who discovers something long after everyone else and then won't stop going on about it, but...

Had a mini-binge last night to catch up on recent Task Master episodes and nearly died laughing. Literally. I was actually choking. But there would be worse ways to go.

Still chuckling this morning at the thought of turning up to the office and having to explain, "Sorry I'm late for work - Johnny Vegas put me in a Christmas tree bagging machine."

I was a massive fan of this when it was on Dave.   It's good to say they haven't dumbed it down at all moving over to C4.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 27 November, 2020, 01:03:14 pm
I know what you mean, but sometimes it's a case of 'the dumber the funnier' in Taskmaster.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ElyDave on 28 November, 2020, 05:16:16 pm
having a look to see what is on to avoid "The Dancing Program" this evening, I spotted 2 hours of Dire Straits on Sky Arts, from the Alchemy era

Update - and that has reminded me why Mark Knopfler is one of my all time guitar heroes
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 05 December, 2020, 04:48:38 pm
I do not like you Falke from Hamburg
https://www.channel4.com/programmes/inspector-falke
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Basil on 15 December, 2020, 06:58:48 pm
Mrs B and I are watching Fanny Cradocks Christmas cookery.  (It's called something like that).
It's absolutely hilarious and the food is appalling, which is also amusing.
We've not picked up any tips.
From the 70s and era of austerity and the three day week, it is interesting how concerned she is about economy and saving money.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 15 December, 2020, 07:47:31 pm
Utopia, on that Amazon. Chosen fairly randomly and not at all what I expected from the blurb. Lots more killing for a start. No idea where it's going, probably one of those end-of-season-never-renewed cliffhangers. Bonus points for the boss bad being called Doctor Rabbit.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Ruthie on 15 December, 2020, 09:58:26 pm
Winter Walks on BBC1, and Whitehouse and Mortimer fishing around the Boro area for Xmas. On i-Player.  If you’re of the Tees Valley persuasion there’s lots of familiar territory.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 15 December, 2020, 10:02:56 pm
The final, final series of French we're-shit-and-we-know-we-are cop show Spiral starts on 2nd Jan
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 16 December, 2020, 12:09:06 am
The Expanse, Season 5 - starts on Amazon. 

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 16 December, 2020, 12:37:26 am
The final, final series of French we're-shit-and-we-know-we-are cop show Spiral starts on 2nd Jan

What, another one ???  How are they going to pull that off with Gilou in the slammer, Tin-Tin working for the Complaints and Laure not being totally nut-nuts any more?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 16 December, 2020, 08:55:08 pm
The final, final series of French we're-shit-and-we-know-we-are cop show Spiral starts on 2nd Jan

What, another one ???  How are they going to pull that off with Gilou in the slammer, Tin-Tin working for the Complaints and Laure not being totally nut-nuts any more?

And Juuuuge Roban’s gone too.  Ah, but will Maitre Karlsson return..... (Confession, we didn’t last through all of series 7).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 16 December, 2020, 09:03:46 pm
Utopia, on that Amazon. Chosen fairly randomly and not at all what I expected from the blurb. Lots more killing for a start. No idea where it's going, probably one of those end-of-season-never-renewed cliffhangers. Bonus points for the boss bad being called Doctor Rabbit.

The UK original (from Ch4) was amazing. “Who is Jessica Hynes”  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: tiermat on 17 December, 2020, 05:24:18 am
On Netflix, Drug Squad Costa Del Sol is really getting me at the moment.

Great story line, 70's clothes, discos etc and a footballer's girlfriend.

Typical novella kind of intertwined stories but no worse for it.

Opposite end of the spectrum, I simply have to stop what I am doing at 8 every Wednesday evening so that I can watch the Repair Shop
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Ruthie on 21 December, 2020, 11:03:30 pm
Not tonight, but there’s celebrity Sewing Bee on Boxing Day and New Years Eve!   :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 22 December, 2020, 10:18:02 am
Utopia, on that Amazon. Chosen fairly randomly and not at all what I expected from the blurb. Lots more killing for a start. No idea where it's going, probably one of those end-of-season-never-renewed cliffhangers. Bonus points for the boss bad being called Doctor Rabbit.

The UK original (from Ch4) was amazing. “Who is Jessica Hynes”  :thumbsup:

I didn't realise there was a C4 version, but I don't have normal telly to keep the inspector man away.

The boss bad is actually Mr Rabbit. Probably a surgeon then.

Still very much enjoying it, though it's disturbing in places. Jessica is very off-kilter. They have to put a disclaimer at the front of every episode to specify that it's not about any 'specific pandemic.'
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 22 December, 2020, 05:01:11 pm
Watch it on catch-up, it’s totally worth it!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 23 December, 2020, 09:10:35 pm
Might have to dig it out. The Amazon one came to an end last night. Mr Rabbit didn't get jugged. Little Alice turned out to be quite impressively fearsome, not sure they're allowed to do that on British TV. Arby's suburban kill-spree with the homicidal tracksuit-wearing cult twins was delectable.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 24 December, 2020, 10:46:22 am
Might have to dig it out. The Amazon one came to an end last night. Mr Rabbit didn't get jugged. Little Alice turned out to be quite impressively fearsome, not sure they're allowed to do that on British TV. Arby's suburban kill-spree with the homicidal tracksuit-wearing cult twins was delectable.

Did it have the eye torture scene though, with salt, chilli, bleach and a spoon?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 24 December, 2020, 10:52:22 am
Yes, it did. That's around the point I realised that it probably wasn't going to be the programme I expected from the blurb.

I do have series 2 of The Boys to watch over Christmas. The Amazon Originals are a lot better these days that the Netflix stuff, never did get to the end of Luke Cage.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 24 December, 2020, 02:18:12 pm
The boys was interesting, in that at the start I felt they had sanitised it from the original (mostly the sex), but as they went on I feel they managed to make it darker in a number of ways.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 24 December, 2020, 11:25:11 pm
I quite enjoyed it, apart from
(click to show/hide)
Title: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 01 January, 2021, 10:21:44 am
Not worthy of the rant thread, just an irritation that spoiled my enjoyment of an otherwise moderately entertaining thing on telly...

‘Pandemonium’ - a light comedy about a family whose planned summer holiday in LA was ruined by the pandemic so they end up going to Margate in October instead. Like I said, moderately entertaining, although it was very much a by-the-numbers amalgamation of entirely familiar tropes - eg family tries to hide the fact that daughter is a lesbian from aged granny but it turns out she worked it out for herself and is perfectly fine with it. See also: dad opts not to book flexi flight tickets (‘We’re not going to change our plans’), someone jolts the suitcase, causing mum’s ‘electric toothbrush’ to switch on (‘But you don’t even have an electric toothbrush?!’)

The thing that irritated me was that they stopped off at Reculver on the way, which is fine, except that they parked their car somewhere entirely inaccessible to the public, which also entailed a bit of a walk to get to the towers, causing much friction with disgruntled teenagers. No idea why they didn’t stop in the sodding great public car park RIGHT NEXT TO the towers. They then could have gone for a nice coffee in Hat Hats as well. But maybe that wouldn’t have been quite as hilariously funny. (What’s more irritating is that there are perfectly legit places they could have parked if they wanted to do the moaning teenagers routine - I regularly park up the road in Bishopstone and walk down to Reculver with the dog.)

When they reached Margate, they then parked in another stupid place, right on the prom. Instead of on the roadside at the top of the cliff, where everyone else parks.

Oh, I see... it’s for comedy purposes again - and indeed how I laughed as the family watched haplessly on when the car, handbrake ‘accidentally’ left off, rolled off the prom and landed on its roof.

Apologies for spoilers, but it was all so predictable that you would have worked it out for yourself anyway.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fuzzy on 01 January, 2021, 04:07:56 pm
In answer to the original question- on terrestrial TV? Fuck all to be honest.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 01 January, 2021, 04:25:24 pm
There's a Taskmaster New Year special on tonight! It's got @KrishGM on it!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 01 January, 2021, 05:22:00 pm
As I accidentally signed up for a free 30 day trial of Amazon Prime I've just binged the first 6 episodes of S5 of "The Expanse".   Good stuff as usual. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 01 January, 2021, 09:32:21 pm
There's a Taskmaster New Year special on tonight! It's got @KrishGM on it!

By far the best thing that’s been on telly this year.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 02 January, 2021, 12:18:58 am
I have saved that for 2moro.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 02 January, 2021, 07:11:56 am
As I accidentally signed up for a free 30 day trial of Amazon Prime I've just binged the first 6 episodes of S5 of "The Expanse".   Good stuff as usual.
Next stop: The man in the High Castle.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Ruthie on 02 January, 2021, 04:46:24 pm
Currently bingeing ‘Ghosts’ on I-player. Pure fluff. Excellent.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: StuAff on 02 January, 2021, 05:26:00 pm
Final series of Engrenages (Spiral) starts tonight.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Wobbly John on 08 January, 2021, 07:16:13 pm
I've just seen a trailer for new BBC programs on tonight - 'Not Going Out' and 'Would I Lie to You' - Topical???  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Ruthie on 08 January, 2021, 07:21:13 pm
It’s David Bowie night on BBC4.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 14 January, 2021, 04:13:05 pm
^ I have taped the lot.

Watched the first episode of "The Serpent" which I did not enjoy (they did that thing where they tried to catch your interest by telling the story in such a way as you don't know what's going on ... because you won't care for any of the characters or be interested in the denouement otherwise), switched to Traces which I thought was better (on Ep 2, won't win awards so far but it is "good enough" to watch). 

Death in Paradise tonight though.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fuzzy on 14 January, 2021, 04:26:52 pm
The Pembrokeshire Murders was good
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 16 January, 2021, 11:00:14 am
It’s David Bowie night on BBC4.
Watched “last five years”; it’s easy to Chuck together a documentary worth of unseen footage on Bowie and deliver nothing new, thankfully this was better than that.  I only give it a “C” as it isn’t as focussed on the last five years as I would have liked (the dips into the past are eminently watchable and fit in with the story telling, but not what I felt was billed).  I do feel much better about “the next day” now, if they toured with a recording of Bowie singing I would pay to see that.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 16 January, 2021, 11:02:29 am
The Pembrokeshire Murders was good

Yes, we thought the same.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 02 February, 2021, 08:40:06 am
"The Great" on Channel 4

A tongue in cheek serialised history of the rise of Catherine the Great of Russia. Funny and horrific in equal measures.
Excellent closing music for each episode too.

All episodes up to now on All 4.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 02 February, 2021, 10:59:18 am
"The Great" on Channel 4

A tongue in cheek serialised history of the rise of Catherine the Great of Russia. Funny and horrific in equal measures.
Excellent closing music for each episode too.

Caught a bit of that on telly the other night and thought it looked interesting - the bit that caught my eye was a scene where she was feeding macaroons to wounded soldiers, which was, as you say, both funny and horrific. Looks like it has lots of gratuitous shagging too. Might go back and watch it from the start.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 02 February, 2021, 11:09:56 pm
Has anyone mentioned It's a Sin?

Yes, it's Russell T Davies writing Russell T Davies characters.  Yes, it's got the tired old biphobic tropes and about 1.3 female characters in it[1].  But you should watch it anyway.  Bring tissues [No, not for that - Ed.] and righteous anger.

* May contain traces of daleks and Thatcher.


[1] Does it even pass the Bechdel test?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 02 February, 2021, 11:28:56 pm
I've been reading stuff about it in various places, but haven't watched any of it yet.  I think the only openly gay person I knew during that timeframe was John, who had the desk opposite me for a couple of years. I used to field calls from various boyfriends.  Nice chap,  he left in the first phase of mass redundancies to start an aromatherapy business.  A couple of years later I asked friends if they'd heard from him & was told he was dead.  Some form of cancer on his neck , so possibly KS.   :'(
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 03 February, 2021, 12:11:18 am
I'm too young to have experienced anything but the late-90s aftermath where older men were conspicuously thin on the ground, and sexual health awareness was a staple of (and often lucrative source of funding for) LGBT groups.

I had an unusual perspective of growing up in a household where infectious diseases where normal dinnertime conversation, and knew all about HIV and AIDS before I really understood the mechanics of sexual intercourse.

I think what's striking is to see the human side of it from a BRITISH perspective.  USAnain stories have been told many times.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 03 February, 2021, 12:29:44 am
I remember being with friends, drinking in the "Third Room" at the Everyman Bistro in Liverpool,  and commenting that this part of the bar was mostly popular with gay people.  One of my "friends" got up & left, said that he wasn't staying here as you might catch something.  This was someone I'd always felt was fairly decent, well educated & broad minded  :(


This was a good interview, with Derek Jarman, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rnDr-xW5uo , though he was someone with a public profile & lots of supportive friends.  I remember watching it on C4 when it was first broadcast.


Can't recall when I first heard the words AIDS or HIV, probably when I started reading the Guardian (we were a Daily Heil household).




Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 03 February, 2021, 01:01:09 pm
Has anyone mentioned It's a Sin?

Yes, it's Russell T Davies writing Russell T Davies characters.  Yes, it's got the tired old biphobic tropes and about 1.3 female characters in it[1].  But you should watch it anyway.  Bring tissues [No, not for that - Ed.] and righteous anger.

It's on the list. A gay friend who watched it was absolutely seething as a result but recommended it none the less.

One thing I don't recommend is the new series of Marcella. Terrible. Just a collection of unoriginal ideas thrown together badly.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fuzzy on 03 February, 2021, 03:22:02 pm
Has anyone mentioned It's a Sin?

Yes, it's Russell T Davies writing Russell T Davies characters.  Yes, it's got the tired old biphobic tropes and about 1.3 female characters in it[1].  But you should watch it anyway.  Bring tissues [No, not for that - Ed.] and righteous anger.

It's on the list. A gay friend who watched it was absolutely seething as a result but recommended it none the less.

One thing I don't recommend is the new series of Marcella. Terrible. Just a collection of unoriginal ideas thrown together badly.
With complete disregard for operational considerations....
Title: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 03 February, 2021, 07:39:58 pm
With complete disregard for operational considerations....

She’s a maverick but she gets results, goddammit.

And if she can singlehandedly bring down the entire O’Mafia family, it will be a victory for enemies of tired clichés everywhere.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 03 February, 2021, 07:44:23 pm
^ I have taped the lot.

Watched the first episode of "The Serpent" which I did not enjoy (they did that thing where they tried to catch your interest by telling the story in such a way as you don't know what's going on ... because you won't care for any of the characters or be interested in the denouement otherwise),

I've watched two episodes on two seperate occasions, both in late evening. On both occasions I've woken in the night with a nightmare. Weird. Really unsettling.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 03 February, 2021, 08:04:29 pm
The last episode of the current season of "The Expanse".  Ooff.   I can cancel my Amazon Prime again. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 03 February, 2021, 11:09:15 pm
The last episode of the current season of "The Expanse".  Ooff.   I can cancel my Amazon Prime again.

Now you can get a free trial of Amazon Audible, & with the two free credits,  get the next couple of  Expanse audio books...   ;)    That's what I listened to on the bike rollers during Lockdown1.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fuzzy on 03 February, 2021, 11:29:25 pm
With complete disregard for operational considerations....

She’s a maverick but she gets results, goddammit.

And if she can singlehandedly bring down the entire O’Mafia family, it will be a victory for enemies of tired clichés everywhere.

Yeahbut she's wrecking the rep of The Feds. I mean, an unhinged UC who actually sleeps with the enemy?
Oh, hang on a minute.....
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 06 February, 2021, 04:15:15 pm
Not tonight, but from Thurs 11th Feb, fans of Adam Curtis' films on the state of our world will be able to find his new series available on BBC iplayer.
https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2021/feb/06/you-could-be-a-cult-leader-diane-morgan-and-adam-curtis-on-brexit-trump-and-his-new-series
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 08 February, 2021, 09:32:45 am
^ I have taped the lot.

Watched the first episode of "The Serpent" which I did not enjoy (they did that thing where they tried to catch your interest by telling the story in such a way as you don't know what's going on ... because you won't care for any of the characters or be interested in the denouement otherwise),

I've watched two episodes on two seperate occasions, both in late evening. On both occasions I've woken in the night with a nightmare. Weird. Really unsettling.
Mrs Legs and I are enjoying The Serpent.  Very sinister.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 08 February, 2021, 09:51:53 am
It's great telly, but I can't watch it anymore. I think the thing that really gets to me is the moments when they have drugged guests, the guests are ill and unwittingly dying, and the two killers are sitting, watching, overseeing their deaths whilst pretending to care for them.  All very Harold Shipman.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 February, 2021, 10:27:45 am
Has anyone mentioned It's a Sin?

Yes, it's Russell T Davies writing Russell T Davies characters.  Yes, it's got the tired old biphobic tropes and about 1.3 female characters in it[1].  But you should watch it anyway.  Bring tissues [No, not for that - Ed.] and righteous anger.

* May contain traces of daleks and Thatcher.


[1] Does it even pass the Bechdel test?

The soundtrack is great.

MrsC and I compared notes about this period (early 80s).

Seems that Aids awareness advertising was much better in Australia that it was in the UK.  Oz still had terrible occurrences of prejudice; I remember reading stories of children with Aids not being allowed into schools, parents (of other children) withdrawing their kids.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: L CC on 08 February, 2021, 05:12:42 pm
One thing I don't recommend is the new series of Marcella. Terrible. Just a collection of unoriginal ideas thrown together badly.

During a Zoom supplier meeting this was recommended to me.
I think I value your opinion higher than the man who sells cardboard boxes.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 10 February, 2021, 07:43:28 pm
"The Great" on Channel 4

A tongue in cheek serialised history of the rise of Catherine the Great of Russia. Funny and horrific in equal measures.
Excellent closing music for each episode too.

Caught a bit of that on telly the other night and thought it looked interesting - the bit that caught my eye was a scene where she was feeding macaroons to wounded soldiers, which was, as you say, both funny and horrific. Looks like it has lots of gratuitous shagging too. Might go back and watch it from the start.
it is genuinely great!

I do not understand how they so beautifully balance the tone. Just love it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 10 February, 2021, 08:55:27 pm
One thing I don't recommend is the new series of Marcella. Terrible. Just a collection of unoriginal ideas thrown together badly.

During a Zoom supplier meeting this was recommended to me.
I think I value your opinion higher than the man who sells cardboard boxes.

I wouldn't trust my opinion on TV matters - I watch The Masked Singer.

Marcella is terrible though.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 10 February, 2021, 11:32:19 pm
Has anyone mentioned It's a Sin?

Yes, it's Russell T Davies writing Russell T Davies characters.  Yes, it's got the tired old biphobic tropes and about 1.3 female characters in it[1].  But you should watch it anyway.  Bring tissues [No, not for that - Ed.] and righteous anger.

* May contain traces of daleks and Thatcher.


[1] Does it even pass the Bechdel test?


Up to episode 3.  Not easy viewing, moments of buttock clenching embarrassment "you're not very clean down there", anger (parents & doctors) and unremitting horror.      The only bright notes are the soundtrack & spotting the locations in Liverpool that were used for filming.


I think this is the first thing by Russell T Davies I've actually seen.  Not enjoying the style very much.  Most people too pretty, no one smokes , drinks or swears enough. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Andy64 on 11 February, 2021, 09:08:12 am
On Amazon Prime - Sneaky Pete. 3 seasons, 10 episodes each
According to the search, last mentioned in a single post topic by Hot Flatus, back in 2017
If you liked Breaking Bad, you'll like this
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: robgul on 12 February, 2021, 08:38:22 am
Your Garden Made Perfect (I know . . . ) - interesting, especially as we are in the process of a garden make-over . . . 

Does anyone know where it's filmed (that's the "HQ" not the individual gardens) ? - interested as there are a couple of things I'd like to look at the detail.

Googling as failed me so far.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: tiermat on 12 February, 2021, 09:04:54 am
Your Garden Made Perfect (I know . . . ) - interesting, especially as we are in the process of a garden make-over . . . 

Does anyone know where it's filmed (that's the "HQ" not the individual gardens) ? - interested as there are a couple of things I'd like to look at the detail.

Googling as failed me so far.

I suspect they use the same studio, or at least the same equipment as the home makeover show hosted by Sarah Beeney.  Zero idea where, though
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: robgul on 12 February, 2021, 10:27:04 am
Your Garden Made Perfect (I know . . . ) - interesting, especially as we are in the process of a garden make-over . . . 

Does anyone know where it's filmed (that's the "HQ" not the individual gardens) ? - interested as there are a couple of things I'd like to look at the detail.

Googling as failed me so far.

I suspect they use the same studio, or at least the same equipment as the home makeover show hosted by Sarah Beeney.  Zero idea where, though

. . . I meant the large garden with the big timber-frame building that is in the start and some of the linking sequences.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 12 February, 2021, 11:53:04 am
Tweet them @MadeperfectTV, they may tell you what you want to know.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: nicknack on 12 February, 2021, 12:14:11 pm
If you like a bit of fairly gentle weirdness I can recommend 'Tales from the Loop' on Prime.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 12 February, 2021, 05:13:41 pm
If you like a bit of fairly gentle weirdness I can recommend 'Tales from the Loop' on Prime.
Yes, I enjoyed.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fuzzy on 12 February, 2021, 11:13:10 pm
If you like a bit of fairly gentle weirdness I can recommend 'Tales from the Loop' on Prime.
I concur.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: MikeFromLFE on 15 February, 2021, 02:23:16 pm



Watched the first episode of "The Serpent" which I did not enjoy (they did that thing where they tried to catch your interest by telling the story in such a way as you don't know what's going on ... because you won't care for any of the characters or be interested in the denouement otherwise), switched to Traces which I thought was better (on Ep 2, won't win awards so far but it is "good enough" to watch). 

I came here to recommend The Serpent which we've just finished watching.
Although the to-ing and fro-ing in the time line requires careful attention, it's a gripping, and very worrying, tale very much of its time (1970s).
I liked the way they'd interleaved period footage into the drama. The comprehensive roundup of the current status of the main characters was welcome and we'll done.
As someone who was on the very outer edges of the fringes of the European end of this world its all very credible - and maybe that's why I enjoyed it so much.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 17 February, 2021, 08:44:41 pm
We’ve just finished the excellent drama “The Investigation” that shows the police side of the investigation into the murder of the journalist Kim Wall by Danish entrepreneur Peter Madsen. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 19 February, 2021, 10:26:39 pm
We’ve just finished the excellent drama “The Investigation” that shows the police side of the investigation into the murder of the journalist Kim Wall by Danish entrepreneur Peter Madsen.

I came here just to post about that.! Really good, despite having followed the case and knowing the outcome.
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 19 February, 2021, 11:54:27 pm
I came here to recommend The Serpent which we've just finished watching.
Just goes to show, one man's poison and all that ...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: drgannet on 22 February, 2021, 06:10:29 pm
We’ve just finished the excellent drama “The Investigation” that shows the police side of the investigation into the murder of the journalist Kim Wall by Danish entrepreneur Peter Madsen.

Another positive endorsement from here. Much better than some of the Scandinavian crime dramas whcih are far too faced-paced for their own good.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 22 February, 2021, 08:43:43 pm
Started watching Bloodlands

Gave up after 20 minutes. Cliché riddled shite.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 22 February, 2021, 09:14:25 pm
Agreed. I hung on as long as I could but as soon as I saw the car getting petrol-bombed I just thought “here we go again”. Leaving aside the subject matter, I thought it was very stagey and awkward. I’ve never been a fan of James Nesbitt.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 23 February, 2021, 08:00:23 pm
Agreed. I hung on as long as I could but as soon as I saw the car getting petrol-bombed I just thought “here we go again”
You can watch a similar scene at the start of the excellent Line of Duty reruns (they're reshowing Series 2;  was S1 really awful? my memory's not that great, I'm not even sure if we watched it!)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 23 February, 2021, 08:57:35 pm
The Fall and Rise of Reginald Perrin. BBC4 now.

Great.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 23 February, 2021, 09:12:45 pm
Super.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 23 February, 2021, 11:45:39 pm
I didn’t get where I am today by watching old sit-coms.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 04 March, 2021, 12:20:51 am
With complete disregard for operational considerations....

She’s a maverick but she gets results, goddammit.

And if she can singlehandedly bring down the entire O’Mafia family, it will be a victory for enemies of tired clichés everywhere.

We are watching it as we've got used to collecting plot holes and “wonder what happened to”-s
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fuzzy on 04 March, 2021, 12:07:11 pm
With complete disregard for operational considerations....

She’s a maverick but she gets results, goddammit.

And if she can singlehandedly bring down the entire O’Mafia family, it will be a victory for enemies of tired clichés everywhere.

We are watching it as we've got used to collecting plot holes and “wonder what happened to”-s

Is it just me or was this last series a warning not to watch the next one?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 06 March, 2021, 10:46:24 am
Good things being said about The Terror, now on iPlayer, based on the excellent Dan Simmons novel.

Mrs Legs and I are enjoying the Pottery Throwdown, with Weepy Keith.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 06 March, 2021, 11:24:44 am
New series of Taskmaster starting on the 18th.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 06 March, 2021, 11:26:09 am
Woo!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 06 March, 2021, 11:57:05 am
The guests were announced in December apparently, but I missed it: Charlotte Ritchie, Jamali Maddix, Lee Mack, Mike Wozniak and Sarah Kendall.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 06 March, 2021, 12:01:55 pm
The guests were announced in December apparently, but I missed it: Charlotte Ritchie, Jamali Maddix, Lee Mack, Mike Wozniak and Sarah Kendall.

[mode Wowbagger=on]
Who they?
[off]

I do actually know who Lee Mack is…
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 06 March, 2021, 12:17:28 pm
With complete disregard for operational considerations....

She’s a maverick but she gets results, goddammit.

And if she can singlehandedly bring down the entire O’Mafia family, it will be a victory for enemies of tired clichés everywhere.

We are watching it as we've got used to collecting plot holes and “wonder what happened to”-s

Is it just me or was this last series a warning not to watch the next one?

I thin what happened was they got to the end of the script writing, and suddenly realised they had only written 7 out of the 8. Hence the flashback.

At least the mafia gang are dealt with...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 06 March, 2021, 12:25:47 pm
The guests were announced in December apparently, but I missed it: Charlotte Ritchie, Jamali Maddix, Lee Mack, Mike Wozniak and Sarah Kendall.

[mode Wowbagger=on]
Who they?
[off]

I do actually know who Lee Mack is…

Mike Wozniak is behind the Beef & Dairy Network podcast (very funny at first but the joke wore thin pretty quickly), and also played Brian in Man Down.

Charlotte Ritchie was Oregon in Fresh Meat and has been in various other things on telly.

Sarah Kendall and Jamali Maddix I know nothing about beyond that they are stand-up comedians.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 06 March, 2021, 01:21:14 pm
Good things being said about The Terror, now on iPlayer, based on the excellent Dan Simmons novel.
We watched that on Amazon Prime in Germany a couple of months ago and really liked it. Excellent acting.

When you have finished it we can compare ideas about its meaning.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 06 March, 2021, 07:32:50 pm
Fans of Julian Barrett (The Mighty Boosh) may not be aware that Mindhorn is on BBC2 tonight.
It's silly.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 06 March, 2021, 09:40:05 pm
Fans of Julian Barrett (The Mighty Boosh) may not be aware that Mindhorn is on BBC2 tonight.
It's silly.

Excellent! Set to record. Thanks for the tip off.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: nicknack on 13 March, 2021, 09:22:36 pm
"Kingdom" on Netflix. Korean zombies, swords, bad dubbing - what's not to like?
Nearly forgot - preposterous headgear too.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Basil on 15 March, 2021, 08:00:32 pm
OMG.  Series 1 episode 1 of Fawlty Towers is on Beeb 1 at 8.30 tonight.
Does this mean all 12 episodes are to be re run?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 15 March, 2021, 08:16:49 pm
OMG.  Series 1 episode 1 of Fawlty Towers is on Beeb 1 at 8.30 tonight.
Does this mean all 12 episodes are to be re run?

Look forward to the social media backlash when children and/or people who haven’t seen it for years realise that a lot of the attitudes it depicts were very much “of their time”.

And Cleese being the twat he is, will respond with some kind of “pc gone mad” tirade.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 17 March, 2021, 03:26:02 pm
Bill Bailey limboland  BCC1 9pm
https://www.radiotimes.com/tv-programme/e/nfk5dk/bill-bailey-limboland/
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 17 March, 2021, 07:52:56 pm
OMG.  Series 1 episode 1 of Fawlty Towers is on Beeb 1 at 8.30 tonight.
Does this mean all 12 episodes are to be re run?

Look forward to the social media backlash when children and/or people who haven’t seen it for years realise that a lot of the attitudes it depicts were very much “of their time”.

And Cleese being the twat he is, will respond with some kind of “pc gone mad” tirade.
<yawn>
IIRC we went through this with The Germans episode last year? I cannot remember why it got dredged up (possibly some link with BLM?). There was certainly lots of 
(click to show/hide)
and other stuff more suited to a politics forum, but hey, Citoyen probably feels better for getting his dig in first ...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 17 March, 2021, 08:12:58 pm
<yawn>
IIRC we went through this with The Germans episode last year? I cannot remember why it got dredged up (possibly some link with BLM?). There was certainly lots of 
(click to show/hide)
and other stuff more suited to a politics forum, but hey, Citoyen probably feels better for getting his dig in first ...

You've completely misread me. Wevs.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 18 March, 2021, 10:30:44 am
Already getting excited about the return of Line of Duty this weekend...   ;D
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43qt3FrZh4s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43qt3FrZh4s)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rogerzilla on 18 March, 2021, 08:22:42 pm
The BBC2 doc on John DeLorean is well worth watching.  Textbook narcissist who came unstuck in a spectacular way.  It's alleged he and Colin Chapman were embezzling together, which I'd never heard before.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 19 March, 2021, 01:11:40 am
The BBC2 doc on John DeLorean is well worth watching.  Textbook narcissist who came unstuck in a spectacular way.  It's alleged he and Colin Chapman were embezzling together, which I'd never heard before.

The judge who put Group Lotus accountant Fred Bushell away for three years reckoned that Chapman only escaped going down for a ten-stretch by being dead.  Allegedly.  There are still conspiraloons who claim he's living it up somewhere warm and sunny with Lord Lucan, Suzy Lamplugh and Shergar.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: tiermat on 19 March, 2021, 07:23:43 am
Falcon and the Winter Soldier, on Disney+

That's my early evening sorted :)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 19 March, 2021, 09:52:14 am
Elizabeth R on BBC 4

Six parts made in 1971 with Glenda Jackson as Elizabeth 1st.

Excellent. The sets are a bit low budget by modern standards but the cast and the acting is brilliant.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 19 March, 2021, 06:56:37 pm
It's that time of year again:

Anything but Comic Relief

:demon:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 20 March, 2021, 11:53:31 am
New series of Taskmaster starting on the 18th.

Brilliant as ever. Worth watching just for Lee Mack's sandwich-making skills. And Mike Wozniak on a hoverboard.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 20 March, 2021, 01:42:51 pm
Sarah Kendall and Jamali Maddix I know nothing about beyond that they are stand-up comedians.
I thought I didn't know of Sarah Kendall either until I heard her speak on Taskmaster and instantly remembered that she's a very good, funny and manipulative storyteller.

Here's her Story of George Peach (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPuRp3Et76Q)
Title: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 20 March, 2021, 02:09:07 pm
Sarah Kendall and Jamali Maddix I know nothing about beyond that they are stand-up comedians.
I thought I didn't know of Sarah Kendall either until I heard her speak on Taskmaster and instantly remembered that she's a very good, funny and manipulative storyteller.

Here's her Story of George Peach (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPuRp3Et76Q)
Aha! I don’t even need to click on the link - I’ve heard that story before, from when she was on Josie Long’s Lost Treasures of the Black Heart, quite a few years ago.

I knew there was something familiar about her.

ETA: in trying to dig out the episode she was in, I also discovered that Mawaan Rizwan was a guest, way back in 2012. Can’t believe he’s old enough to have been gigging that long.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 21 March, 2021, 12:15:06 am
Anything but Comic Relief

Achievement unlocked:  Was completely unaware that Comic Relief was happening, until I saw a past-tense headline about Justin Bieber doing something for it after the event.

Best thing since not being Whammed.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 21 March, 2021, 12:42:12 am
Unfortunately I am not always quick enough to switch to C4 at the end of the BBC Londonton news, frequently because I'm not actually on the room at the time.  Then you get trailers for the wretched thing.  Being in the kitchen at the wrong time can also cause inadvertent exposure to The One Show and therefore also a long soak in the bath*.

* Bon Scott-era AC/DC has the same effect, albeit for very different reasons
Title: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 21 March, 2021, 08:01:11 am
Watched Crock Of Gold last night, a fascinating and well made* documentary about Shane MacGowan that was on BBC4 on Tuesday, though I think it was first broadcast last year - late to the party, as ever.

Really sad looking at the state of him now.

*by Julien Temple, almost inevitably.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: JonB on 21 March, 2021, 09:48:36 am
Watched Crock Of Gold last night, a fascinating and well made* documentary about Shane MacGowan that was on BBC4 on Tuesday, though I think it was first broadcast last year - late to the party, as ever.

Really sad looking at the state of him now.
I started watching it yesterday but it was upsetting seeing his condition. I didn't last long, just wasn't in the right frame of mind, will watch it but need to be in the right head space.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 21 March, 2021, 12:15:31 pm
Watched Crock Of Gold last night, a fascinating and well made* documentary about Shane MacGowan that was on BBC4 on Tuesday, though I think it was first broadcast last year - late to the party, as ever.

Really sad looking at the state of him now.

*by Julien Temple, almost inevitably.

Ooh, ta.  I shall Investigate.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 21 March, 2021, 08:19:54 pm
BENT COPPERS!!!

T-41mins
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 27 March, 2021, 06:05:31 pm
Sunday, 10pm BBC4, repeats of the first series of Between the Lines.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 27 March, 2021, 08:54:22 pm
We are watching Monster on All4. A crime series set in Northern Norway. It's getting more ridiculous as the episodes go on.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 02 April, 2021, 09:10:44 am
For the gardeners amongst us, Beechgrove Garden is back (in England, the Scots have already had it) Sunday morning 9:30.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: cygnet on 09 April, 2021, 12:00:23 am
Not having a TV I'm somewhat behind what is available but.

No love for Deutschland since 83?

OK the last episode of 89 was a bit "clear the decks" but I'm surprised not to find more mention here.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 09 April, 2021, 06:04:34 am
Well I liked the three Deutschland series, although not so much the Africa bit in the middle one.

Watched them with my German partner and it had a lot of resonance with him, especially as he is currently working on a project with Robotron (it’s still in existence!)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 22 April, 2021, 11:50:03 am
Second season of American Gods. And god, that was turgid. Eight hours in which nothing much happened. The visuals are nice but it's clear they're treading water with the plot, meandering scenes and endless rambling exposition (it doesn't help that the lead, Shadow Moon, seems to be sleepwalking through it and is impressively dumb, his Dead Wife is far livelier and her and Mad Sweeney are the only bits worth watching). There's a third series, I won't bother. Shame really, the first season was very good.

Season two of The Boys has got to a literally more explosive start (she's not going to come back from that). And Butcher is back and he's still got the accent, cunts. Way-hey.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 26 April, 2021, 09:00:41 am
"The Mare of Easttown" on Sky/HBO.
This is extremely promising.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 29 April, 2021, 10:50:01 am
Very much enjoying the second season of The Boys (not sure why I left it so long). Definitely a million times better than the usual comic-book dirge.

The whale-based climax to last night's episode, oh god, I laughed so hard that I cried.

If people aren't watching this, you should be. Fuck that chunky-sweatered, grim-faced crime drama. Watch this, it's far more fun, and you never know when someone's head might explode.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 29 April, 2021, 12:43:56 pm
Watch this, it's far more fun, and you never know when someone's head might explode.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 30 April, 2021, 09:55:39 am
It could be, the precise cause of the exploding head has been undisclosed. Of course, watching subsequent episodes, any time there's a quiet moment I think someone's head might explode. A lot of heads get pulled off, and the occasional face. As Amazon says before each episode, contains nudity, graphical sexual content, bad language, violence, and drug use (in the order that's likely to most offend the average American). It's like an ingredient list. It doesn't disappoint. Best swearing since Deadwood.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 30 April, 2021, 03:21:31 pm
Best swearing since Deadwood.

That's all the recommendation I need. Cocksucker.

(And for anyone who has never seen Deadwood, this is a useful primer: https://youtu.be/uFDYAz5LFjc )
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 30 April, 2021, 03:54:11 pm
It doesn't have quite the same density of swears, but when Karl Urban growls his 'alright, you cunts...' with his brilliant mockney accent, it's my favourite swear ever. It's not so much the word, it's the delivery. Butcher is brilliant but you'd have reservations about his babysitting ability*.

There are some nice samples here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKFeRLlz380

*ETA: google 'the boys laser baby.' Diabolical. Also his profound advice to Homelander's son: don't be a cunt.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 01 May, 2021, 11:00:47 am
Next Saturday evening on Quest, the Giro 2021 highlights begin.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 04 May, 2021, 06:35:47 pm
Anybody watching Frank of Ireland?

https://images.app.goo.gl/LzRpfZfF2tmXKaZz9
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 07 May, 2021, 11:37:38 am
Got to the end of the current season of The Boys, still continuing my televisual lurve-fest for this. Had to scramble to check they're making a season three (they are, phew).

Very, very good, and some pitch-perfect satire of US culture (the active supervillain drill in schools, the focus group diversity scene, oh my, so many). That and the exploding heads. You won't forget that scene in a hurry. Oh and superhero porn.

If you have Amazon Prime, just watch it, OK? But not with the kids or your grandparents.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 07 May, 2021, 11:46:01 am
Ian Wrights documentary on domestic violence and its impact on children that was shown on the BBC last night.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: geraldc on 07 May, 2021, 11:54:30 am
Got to the end of the current season of The Boys, still continuing my televisual lurve-fest for this. Had to scramble to check they're making a season three (they are, phew).

Very, very good, and some pitch-perfect satire of US culture (the active supervillain drill in schools, the focus group diversity scene, oh my, so many). That and the exploding heads. You won't forget that scene in a hurry. Oh and superhero porn.

If you have Amazon Prime, just watch it, OK? But not with the kids or your grandparents.

Karl Urban's (New Zealander) cockney accent is a bit grating.

The guy who play's Homelander Antony Starr is also a Kiwi, and kind of dumps on Urban's accent skills from a great height.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 07 May, 2021, 12:04:57 pm
Sorry, but no, Karl Urban's mockney accent is quite possibly the best thing to ever come out of New Zealand. He seems happy to have the piss taken out of him, there's a fair number of in-jokes in the script. I love it, it makes the swears even more special.

Anthony Starr's Homelander is awesome though, he's quite terrifying.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 08 May, 2021, 12:38:18 pm
We've started watching Tehran again, having started it last year but got caught up in watching all the Line of Duty series that we'd not seen before. It's better this time round, and even more so because there aren't the broken LCD coloured bars running down the screen...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 08 May, 2021, 09:37:11 pm
Not tonight, but do try and find it. A Storyville from BBC4 “A German Life” or Goebbels Secretary. Astounding. Film from the Warsaw ghetto I’ve never seen before, amongst other extraordinary information.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 09 May, 2021, 07:30:06 pm
Will do. The selections for Storyville seldom disappoint. I meant to recommend 'Collective: Unravelling a Scandal' a few weeks back, covering the aftermath of the 2015 Bucharest nightclub fire. Some deaths were caused, weeks and months after the fire, because of corrupt heads of hospitals, an evil manufacturer of disinfectant, and complicit politicians. All uncovered, with the help of whistleblowers, by the editor and team at a daily sports newspaper. (But I forgot).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 09 May, 2021, 07:34:34 pm
That’s ok, we saw it  :thumbsup: 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: SteveC on 09 May, 2021, 07:53:05 pm
Not tonight, but do try and find it. A Storyville from BBC4 “A German Life” or Goebbels Secretary. Astounding. Film from the Warsaw ghetto I’ve never seen before, amongst other extraordinary information.
+1 for this. I probably wouldn't have bothered, but MrsC recorded it. It's a period of history she's more into than I am. I'm glad she did.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 11 May, 2021, 07:31:27 pm
Not the Giro highlights.... Quest are repeating the stage 1 coverage  ::-)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 12 May, 2021, 08:04:39 pm
Not the Giro highlights.... Quest are repeating the stage 1 coverage  ::-)
It's on the Discovery website now.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 12 May, 2021, 08:53:19 pm
Not the Giro highlights.... Quest are repeating the stage 1 coverage  ::-)
It's on the Discovery website now.

Ta
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 13 May, 2021, 12:11:27 pm
"The Mare of Easttown" on Sky/HBO.
This is extremely promising.
I wasn't too sure if I'd continue with it after the first episode.
I'm glad I did.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 13 May, 2021, 02:37:00 pm
"The Mare of Easttown" on Sky/HBO.
This is extremely promising.
I wasn't too sure if I'd continue with it after the first episode.
I'm glad I did.

I watched the first 10 minutes of the first episode but... I dunno, maybe I just wasn't in the right mood for it. I keep hearing how good it is, though, so I'll give it another go when I'm feeling more receptive.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 13 May, 2021, 03:05:44 pm
Inspired by the return of Inside No. 9, I watched an episode from the first series last night, A Quiet Night In (https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b03vkx2t/inside-no-9-series-1-2-a-quiet-night-in).  Very clever and very funny.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 17 May, 2021, 09:50:02 pm
"Love, Death and Robots" Season 2 on netflix. These are very good and I hope they keep making them.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 18 May, 2021, 09:00:45 am
Past now, but may be repeated, a PSB series "Australia in colour", a history of Australia through colourised early film and newsreel. Their "hostile environment" as part of the White Australia policy was eye-opening.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 21 May, 2021, 07:24:53 pm
Started watching "10 years with Hayao Miyazaki" which is fascinating:

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/ondemand/video/3004569/
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 29 May, 2021, 11:04:03 pm
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier,Spy with Alec Guinness, Hywel Bennett et al, starts a re-run on BBC 4 tonight. First broadcast in 1979. Top stuff.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: nobby on 30 May, 2021, 01:06:36 pm
0300 tonight the last episode of 'Mare of Eastown' is on.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 31 May, 2021, 05:51:22 am
0300 tonight the last episode of 'Mare of Eastown' is on.

That was surprising and very good. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 31 May, 2021, 06:16:07 pm
The Dauphine. Missed last nights but it’s on ITV hub.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Asterix, the former Gaul. on 31 May, 2021, 07:30:44 pm
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier,Spy with Alec Guinness, Hywel Bennett et al, starts a re-run on BBC 4 tonight. First broadcast in 1979. Top stuff.

Quality lasts. The Little Drummer Girl a more recent favourite.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: nobby on 01 June, 2021, 12:39:46 am
0300 tonight the last episode of 'Mare of Eastown' is on.

That was surprising and very good.

I've read that now Kate W has got the accent correct they may do Series 2.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: geoff on 21 June, 2021, 10:23:02 pm
Handmaid's Tale S4 catching up on on All4 great. Except for the frequent ad breaks all criminally aimed at encouraging gambling. This society is just fucking rotten, to the core

Sent from my STF-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: geoff on 21 June, 2021, 10:28:04 pm
Handmaid's Tale S4 catching up on on All4 great. Except for the frequent ad breaks all criminally aimed at encouraging gambling. This society is just fucking rotten, to the core

Sent from my STF-L09 using Tapatalk
Somewhat mitigated by Aretha, Carole King and The Dead. Explain to me, someone, why music from that era was soo great?

Sent from my STF-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 22 June, 2021, 09:57:52 am
on iPlayer  Horizon: The Vaccine.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 12 July, 2021, 09:26:06 am
Time is a Killer on All4 (World).  Not the usual formulaic paint-by-numbers stuff.  They threaten to go Twin Peaks one Episode but then dial it back.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 12 July, 2021, 11:43:36 am
Not tonight, but something to get excited about in the near future... Succession S3

https://youtu.be/ziBOCIgCaOk
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 12 July, 2021, 12:39:19 pm
Excited already.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 12 July, 2021, 08:05:34 pm
Time is a Killer on All4 (World).  Not the usual formulaic paint-by-numbers stuff.  They threaten to go Twin Peaks one Episode but then dial it back.
Sounds interesting
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 12 July, 2021, 10:05:54 pm
New series of Only Connect started this evening, as did Universally Challenged. TFFT.

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 15 July, 2021, 10:46:04 pm
Floodland (Grenslanders - not sure why they translate it as "Floodland"), set on the Belgian/Dutch border and mostly in Flemish/Nederlands (I enjoy picking up on the difference in their accent).

Co-starring Prof T as the shrink.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 16 July, 2021, 05:04:48 am
Floodland (Grenslanders - not sure why they translate it as "Floodland"), set on the Belgian/Dutch border and mostly in Flemish/Nederlands (I enjoy picking up on the difference in their accent).

Co-starring Prof T as the shrink.
Which channel was that on?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 16 July, 2021, 08:12:01 am
Floodland (Grenslanders - not sure why they translate it as "Floodland"), set on the Belgian/Dutch border and mostly in Flemish/Nederlands (I enjoy picking up on the difference in their accent).

Co-starring Prof T as the shrink.
Which channel was that on?

Looks like a "Walter Presents" on All4
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 16 July, 2021, 04:48:52 pm
^ That's the one.  A small sejour away from the Scandi and admission of defeat in front of the Polski
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 16 July, 2021, 05:19:53 pm
I have found it (God bless VPNs from Germany) and will add it to my list.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 16 July, 2021, 06:00:57 pm
How is your Dutch?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 16 July, 2021, 06:02:23 pm
God bless subtitles.

Well, written Dutch is OK but spoken a bit tricky, although I can understand some of it as it is similar enough to German.

We had the Fibre Optic chaps digging trenches round here recently and then they had to put something in the house. They are all Dutchies and spoke to me in Dutch and I replied in German and we generally understood each other.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 17 July, 2021, 02:17:00 pm
Don’t the Dutch still Dutch subtitles on and leave the spoken dialogue native? They did when I was there some, erm, 40 years ago…. That’s why they all spoke English with a US accent.  Germans of course dubbed their foreign programmes. “Achtung Tonto” said the Lone Ranger.  ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 17 July, 2021, 11:39:53 pm
Was my experience of Nederlands and Flemish TV when growing up in .be
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 08 August, 2021, 10:45:32 am
A somewhat advance heads up, but it seems the Vuekta highlights will be on Quest rather than the previously advised ITV4 this year. Oh dear, more Wiggins.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 08 August, 2021, 09:03:41 pm
The thing I looked at today said ITV4...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 08 August, 2021, 09:25:02 pm
Apparently Cycling,co.uk was lying.

I don't mind Wiggins,  it's the deeply exciting Sean Yates I can't stand. I swear the man can do circular breathing, too.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: TimC on 09 August, 2021, 12:12:10 am
Apparently Cycling,co.uk was lying.

I don't mind Wiggins,  it's the deeply exciting Sean Yates I can't stand. I swear the man can do circular breathing, too.

Agreed, but that lot are on Eurosport, not ITV4 (or Quest).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 09 August, 2021, 12:48:51 am
SB Wiggins kept popping up on Quest's Giro highlights show last year, probably to distract attention away from how their colemantary team is light years behind different from *** and Super D.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 09 August, 2021, 07:49:50 am
Apparently Cycling,co.uk was lying.

I don't mind Wiggins,  it's the deeply exciting Sean Yates I can't stand. I swear the man can do circular breathing, too.

Agreed, but that lot are on Eurosport, not ITV4 (or Quest).

Yes, so that's what we're getting, cos no ITV4...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 09 August, 2021, 01:41:21 pm
Apparently Cycling,co.uk was lying.

I don't mind Wiggins,  it's the deeply exciting Sean Yates I can't stand. I swear the man can do circular breathing, too.

Agreed, but that lot are on Eurosport, not ITV4 (or Quest).

Quest (and Eurosport I believe, but could be completely wrong (again)) use GCN - and that most assuredly has Wiggins and Kelly, at least for the Giro.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 10 August, 2021, 10:40:33 am
Have been watching Baptiste series 1.  It was ... not bad - but I would not say it was good.  I would probably have excused some of its foibles had it been in foreign, but I found too many issues with it (story plot holes etc) to consider it good.  It's only 6 episodes, so low buy-in cost though.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Feanor on 13 August, 2021, 10:19:36 am
I stumbled across this entirely by accident (that's the UX paradigm of the Amazon Firestick):

https://www.thetheatrecafe.co.uk/2021/06/ian-mckellen-solo-show-broadcast-amazon-prime-video/

Ian McKellan's 80th birthday tour, streamed on Amazon. It's basically a monologue.
https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/shows/ian-mckellen-on-stage

It's very good.

Finding it on the idiot-box is left as an exercise for the reader.
My streaming comes in via an Amazon Firestick, which seems to posses an ever-changing non-deterministic UI.
I can never come to the same place twice in it's labyrinthine passageways.
It's a self-modifying maze.


Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Thor on 13 August, 2021, 11:04:10 am
I stumbled across this entirely by accident (that's the UX paradigm of the Amazon Firestick):

https://www.thetheatrecafe.co.uk/2021/06/ian-mckellen-solo-show-broadcast-amazon-prime-video/

Ian McKellan's 80th birthday tour, streamed on Amazon. It's basically a monologue.
https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/shows/ian-mckellen-on-stage

It's very good.

Finding it on the idiot-box is left as an exercise for the reader.
My streaming comes in via an Amazon Firestick, which seems to posses an ever-changing non-deterministic UI.
I can never come to the same place twice in it's labyrinthine passageways.
It's a self-modifying maze.

Thanks for that - sounds interesting.  I found it here (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ian-McKellen-on-Stage/dp/B096Y7T3C2), entitled "Great British Theatre" cos it's lumped in with some other productions.  The stage version of Fleabag might also be worth a watch.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Feanor on 15 August, 2021, 10:06:03 pm
I just watched the Fleabag monologue, and it was one of the best things I've seen for years.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 16 August, 2021, 08:43:38 pm
"White Lotus" finished here last night and it was very good. Think it started on Sky-somthing in the UK this week.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 16 August, 2021, 09:24:04 pm
Brand new series of Richard Osman's House of Games started tonight. Hurrah.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 18 August, 2021, 12:30:15 am
Baptiste series 2 (No, I never learn).  Worse plot holes (in fairness it could be scriptwriters chucking in random twists with no consideration as to logic) than series 1 but it has whatshername from Killing Eve in it, so (some) of the acting is better.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: nobby on 18 August, 2021, 07:38:46 am
Nicola Walker in Annika last night on Alibi at 2100.
Another cop series but very different to Unforgotten. A little jokey, interesting asides to camera, Scots dialect to attune to and a least three young women similar enough that I was never sure which one I was watching.
My wife thought it marvellous and I'll certainly be watching the rest.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 18 August, 2021, 05:25:41 pm
Nicola Walker in Annika last night on Alibi at 2100.
Another cop series but very different to Unforgotten. A little jokey, interesting asides to camera, Scots dialect to attune to and a least three young women similar enough that I was never sure which one I was watching.
My wife thought it marvellous and I'll certainly be watching the rest.

I read the Guardian review of that, it was very tongue in cheek.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: nobby on 19 August, 2021, 07:08:28 am
I read the Guardian review of that, it was very tongue in cheek.
So was the programme but she is a good actress and the asides to camera worked.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Socks on 12 September, 2021, 06:03:05 pm
Great North Run highlights - just finished on BBC2 however it should be available on i-player.  At the superficial level, some  impressive elite running plus a nice programme with lots of remarkable individual stories.  Or alternatively, how much better would our country be if the people in charge followed the example of those charity fundraisers.

And did something active to make life better for those in our community who are ill, vulnerable or need support.  And by doing so, make life better for all of us.

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 12 September, 2021, 06:58:41 pm
I've been watching some Swedish thing on BBC 4, The Hunt for A Killer. A bit different as it's set it in the late 80's and 90's.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: robgul on 12 September, 2021, 07:05:11 pm
Great North Run highlights - just finished on BBC2 however it should be available on i-player.  At the superficial level, some  impressive elite running plus a nice programme with lots of remarkable individual stories.  Or alternatively, how much better would our country be if the people in charge followed the example of those charity fundraisers.

And did something active to make life better for those in our community who are ill, vulnerable or need support.  And by doing so, make life better for all of us.

One of my daughters and a son-in-law (not her husband) were running - between them they raised well over £1,000 (shared between Shelter and Macmillan Cancer Support) - very proud of them. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 12 September, 2021, 07:23:41 pm
Late Night Mash on Dave
The Investigation (Danish) on iPlayer
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: nobby on 13 September, 2021, 06:28:17 am
I've been watching some Swedish thing on BBC 4, The Hunt for A Killer. A bit different as it's set it in the late 80's and 90's.

Based on a true tale of poor policing and missed opportunities and a bit slow in the telling. The final two episodes are on iPlayer so we sat up and finished it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rogerzilla on 27 September, 2021, 09:48:05 am
Watched the last episode of Vigil.  All utter tosh, of course, but quite enjoyable tosh.  Like all submarine dramas, men with huge spanners attend to gushing water.  I still think Paterson Joseph should have played the commander exactly as Johnson from Peep Show.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 11 October, 2021, 10:27:01 am
We have just started with Vigil.

Trying to ignore the stupid bits. (Would they really let someone fly offshore without even basic ditch training?)

Playing the game of "who is actually the baddy and why" is quite fun.

It does emphasize that you have to be truly weird to want to serve on a sub. Stuck in a small tin can, no fresh air, very very limited room, for months at a time. I'd go bonkers. Bet they all end up with eye problems (it is bad for eyes to not look at varied distances).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: orienteer on 11 October, 2021, 11:55:07 am
Hornby - model railways etc, first episode on Yesterday (ch26 on freeview) at 21.00.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 11 October, 2021, 12:27:25 pm
What channel is vigil on? My GerMan and I are very keen on submarine things…

Edit - my GoogleFu says BBC1
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 11 October, 2021, 12:59:14 pm
Missions - French SF series about a Mars mission, series 1 and 2 on iPlayer.

Nicely done with some good plot twists.

The series three which will be the last and wrap it up is in production at the moment apparently.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 15 October, 2021, 11:07:33 pm
^ Enjoyed that.  The 20 min episode format meant that we re-watched all of S1 in a couple evenings after realising we had no clue at the start of S2.  Does what you want from a foreign series, in that it's actually new and different.  Very cleverly done due to their limited/non-existent budget.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 16 October, 2021, 08:29:44 am
Succession 3 on Monday. I've been rewatching 1 and 2 in preparation and feel a bit dirty.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 16 October, 2021, 09:17:40 am
^ Is it as good as its cracked up to be?

I've never seen it, nor The Wire, as I refuse to put money into the hands of Murdoch.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 16 October, 2021, 10:18:17 am
IMHO, yes. Strange you should mention the Wire, as I was idly thinking that currently that would be my #1 and Succession would, appropriately, follow on from it at #2.  (I've never seen the Sopranos which is also mentioned as being up there in similar lists). And the irony that it's a Murdoch-type family/business satire and I'm wathcing on Sky is not lost on me.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 16 October, 2021, 11:18:08 am
Yeah, I'd really like to see them both but 20 years ago I told my left-wing anti-Mugdoch "I was on the picket line at Wapping" cousin that his 'values' meant nothing if he didn't live by them. He had Sky for premiership football.

So it's either no Wire for me, or I embrace fascist oligarchy
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 16 October, 2021, 04:50:24 pm
^ Yeah, I hate it when that happens.  I ended up vegetarian because I was contrary with a friend of mine who only ate free range eggs, but not free range chicken.
You could always illegally download it.  this way you steal from Murdoch which should be oay with your ethics (though you will be DIRECTLY FUNDING THE TALIBAN).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 16 October, 2021, 05:05:15 pm
^ Yeah, I hate it when that happens.  I ended up vegetarian because I was contrary with a friend of mine who only ate free range eggs, but not free range chicken.
You could always illegally download it.  this way you steal from Murdoch which should be oay with your ethics (though you will be DIRECTLY FUNDING THE TALIBAN).

Googling how to download The Wire threw up that it’s available as pay to view on a number of non-Murdoch platforms apparently. Not cheap mind - iTunes has every episode for £70.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: IanDG on 17 October, 2021, 12:51:55 am
Guilt (season 2) on I-player - catch up with season1 if you haven't seen it before. Mark Bonner is excellent.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: perpetual dan on 17 October, 2021, 08:16:47 pm
We've been watching "the cleaner" on iplayer recently. Very funny, if you don't mind that he's cleaning (fictional) murder scenes.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 18 October, 2021, 08:34:46 am
We've been watching "the cleaner" on iplayer recently. Very funny, if you don't mind that he's cleaning (fictional) murder scenes.

I saw the first episode of that and enjoyed it very much. Must watch some more of it. The role seems tailor made for Greg Davies.

HBC was suitably bonkers too.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 18 October, 2021, 08:38:53 am
Guilt (season 2) on I-player - catch up with season1 if you haven't seen it before. Mark Bonner is excellent.

Interesting. Enjoyed the first series but wasn’t aware there was a second. Is it a continuation of the same storyline or a completely new one? I can’t remember exactly how the first one ended but I seem to recall the main plot being pretty much tied up.
Title: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 18 October, 2021, 08:52:30 am
^ Is it as good as its cracked up to be?

Yes. Unequivocally. The last episode of series two is the best single hour of TV drama I’ve seen in years. (Though it will only make sense if you’ve watched the rest, of course.)

Like Nuncio, we’ve been recapping the first two series for a reminder. There’s so much in it, so much I’d forgotten… especially I’d forgotten the shooting party episode, which is horrific - kind of amusing but also unbearably awful. Succession is very, very funny at times, but it is most emphatically not a comedy.

Quote
I've never seen it, nor The Wire, as I refuse to put money into the hands of Murdoch.

Get it on dvd second hand. It’s still worth seeing.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 18 October, 2021, 09:33:27 am
Mrs C was not taken with 'the cleaner'. Lasted 10min.

We are working on 'Sex Education'. Some brilliant performances by young actors in their first roles.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 18 October, 2021, 09:53:02 am
Mrs C was not taken with 'the cleaner'. Lasted 10min.


A very variable series. I enjoyed the first (with Helena Bonham-Carter) and the fourth (with Stephanie Cole). The others I didn't get beyond the first 5 minutes.  The sixth was pulled because David Amess  ::-).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 18 October, 2021, 10:10:27 am
Get it on dvd second hand. It’s still worth seeing.

What is dvd?

 ;D

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 18 October, 2021, 10:13:16 am
Fair point! I still seem to have shelves full of the darn things (including all five series of the Wire), but come to think of it, I'm not sure I actually have anything to play them on - we have a PS3 but the controllers are knackered (chewed to bits by the dog) so it's almost impossible to use it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 18 October, 2021, 10:20:07 am
I have loads too from when those cheap postal dvd rental services were a thing in the 2000s. I used to burn them onto recordable dvds. Looking back, I'm quite dismayed at my taste in films then, and secretly pleased that within a few years the means to play them will completely disappear...just in time for when my kids start getting curious as to what is in those dvd wallets at the back of the cupboard.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 18 October, 2021, 10:26:43 am
My office still has shelves of DVDs too – including a still shrink-wrapped Wire (will get around to it and The Sopranos one day, honest).

I've moved the CDs to the garage, the DVDs should probably eventually follow, it's not space I desperately need, though it's making me look retro on video calls. Wait till they hear about my collection of audio cassettes in the loft. I think we must have some VHS up there, though I think most of that went to charity.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 18 October, 2021, 10:34:18 am
I've got the Sopranos on DVD too but still haven't got round to watching it. I've seen occasional episodes from having to review it for work back when it was on telly first time round, and I've always liked what I've seen, it's just too much of a time investment to go back through the whole thing from the start.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 18 October, 2021, 10:41:43 am
Reminds me, I've still not done Breaking Bad either, though that's not on DVD, of course.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 18 October, 2021, 10:51:59 am
One day I will get round to binge-watching Borgen, which is still shrink-wrapped on that shelf there ////
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 18 October, 2021, 11:18:22 am
Reminds me, I've still not done Breaking Bad either, though that's not on DVD, of course.

It was excellent. Especially given that it was a decade ago. Those kind of cinema-quality TV series are a bit more common now.

I've just ordered the Wire box set from Argos. £25.
Got to collect it from a Bristol Sainsbury argos, which gives me the opportunity to free myself from covid torpor, and have an excuse to get a fuckton of samosas from Jeevan Sweets in Stapleton.

I reckon it'll be a 2 hour jaunt.  That will exhaust me enough to need to spend the rest of the day and evening sitting down doing nothing...Perfect.

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 18 October, 2021, 11:39:53 am
I have a huge backlog of things to watch, a side-effect of not watching much tv other than movies at the weekend.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 18 October, 2021, 11:51:40 am
Reminds me, I've still not done Breaking Bad either, though that's not on DVD, of course.

It was excellent. Especially given that it was a decade ago. Those kind of cinema-quality TV series are a bit more common now.

Same applies to The Wire, which came a bit before Breaking Bad. Both first came to British TV on obscure satellite channels (both on FX, iirc) and since reviewing obscure satellite TV shows was my job at the time, I got the first episodes of both on VHS to watch before I'd even heard anything about them, so wasn't influenced by the hype (although I do recall m'colleague telling me there's this new American series called The Wire that's supposed to be quite good and it would be worth considering for review... that turned out to be the understatement of the century). It had me absolutely mesmerised from the start. I think I watched that first episode at least three times.

There's a lot of debate over whether Breaking Bad or The Wire is best. I think they're too different to really compare them, but I'd give The Wire the nod.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 18 October, 2021, 12:06:56 pm
I do definitely want to watch The Wire, I was a big fan of the excellent Homicide: Life on the Street and I've enjoyed – if that's the word – David Simon's books.

Not so sure about The Sopranos, I find mob stuff a bit so-so, but I've been to New Jersey a lot (as my wife used to work there) so I'm like, probably connected.

If you ever want grade 1 fun, introduce a proper Italian to Italian American food. On her first day in the US, my wife and her loud friends got her an Italian meatball sub. On 'Italian bread.'

She went off like Vesuvius. They're a bit precious about their food, the Italians. I think they saved Olive Garden for later in her visit.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 18 October, 2021, 12:30:11 pm
I do definitely want to watch The Wire, I was a big fan of the excellent Homicide: Life on the Street and I've enjoyed – if that's the word – David Simon's books.

Have you read the book of Homicide? There are large chunks of The Wire that are lifted directly from it, almost verbatim.

The Wire is very different to the TV version of Homicide though.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 18 October, 2021, 12:54:36 pm
I have. I think they're both based on the same material. Homicide had to be suitable for US networks, but it still did very well at being a non-procedural procedural that must have given the NBC execs serial nose bleeds with its dark storylines, unsolved murders, and constant non-bad-guy-chasing talky-talk (which gave time to some of the best dialogue written), not to mention the murder board. I suspect it, and The Wire, did very little for the Baltimore tourist industry. Personally, I never did (and still don't) like crab. Well, not having to dismember it myself.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 18 October, 2021, 01:14:55 pm
Balto has a tourist industry?  I thought it best viewed from I-695 at a distance of a Several of miles, from the Cheesypeas Bay Bridge with a truck in the way :demon:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 18 October, 2021, 01:23:30 pm
The harbour area is fine, if you like generic corp-o-America with lots of glass and upscale dining experiences. There's still a whole lotta of Baltimore you don't want to go to (best seen from the train as it threads though to the station, there's still neighbourhoods of mostly derelict rowhouses and burnt out businesses). It's still a shock that you have to remind yourself you're looking at the richest nation in the world. That said, there are parts of Washington DC where you wouldn't go without a tank.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 18 October, 2021, 02:29:53 pm
Homicide had to be suitable for US networks

Indeed. Imagine an unsanitised version of Homicide and that's basically The Wire.

The Corner, which was the basis of much of the non-police side of The Wire, is also very good - but incredibly bleak.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Croft on 18 October, 2021, 02:41:31 pm
The harbour area is fine, if you like generic corp-o-America with lots of glass and upscale dining experiences. There's still a whole lotta of Baltimore you don't want to go to (best seen from the train as it threads though to the station, there's still neighbourhoods of mostly derelict rowhouses and burnt out businesses). It's still a shock that you have to remind yourself you're looking at the richest nation in the world. That said, there are parts of Washington DC where you wouldn't go without a tank.

I once participated in a Critical Mass though Baltimore, including through some of those less than prosperous neighbourhoods. My only experience of Baltimore prior to that was via John Waters, The Wire and the glass fronted harbour area so was somewhat trepidatious. But the reception from locals was much more supportive there than it was downtown.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 18 October, 2021, 02:50:44 pm
Homicide had to be suitable for US networks

Indeed. Imagine an unsanitised version of Homicide and that's basically The Wire.

The Corner, which was the basis of much of the non-police side of The Wire, is also very good - but incredibly bleak.

Yes, I read an article some years about the ongoing war with NBC, there was much surprise that it got out as unscathed as it did and managed a full run of several series. The interrogation episode in the first series was one of the most intense bit of TV ever, if I recall, the entire scene was shot in a single interrogation room, with no break for the entire episode. Not exactly the stuff of car chases and shoot-outs.

Probably better to see if without adverts for erectile dysfunction pills, arse cream and sandwiches that feature 'all the meat' (that's probably why they need the first two things) though, that really killed the tension.

The Corner is very good, caused some dispute with the detectives who featured in Homicide.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 18 October, 2021, 03:29:36 pm
I've not watched a US based cop series since Hill Street Blues,   Oz & The Sopranos probably don't count. 


What would the panel recommend as a starter ?  Homicide or The Wire ?   


I note that in "The Expanse" Amos Burton hails from Baltimore & it's still portrayed as a crime ridden hell hole several centuries into the future...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: IanDG on 18 October, 2021, 04:11:45 pm
Guilt (season 2) on I-player - catch up with season1 if you haven't seen it before. Mark Bonner is excellent.

Interesting. Enjoyed the first series but wasn’t aware there was a second. Is it a continuation of the same storyline or a completely new one? I can’t remember exactly how the first one ended but I seem to recall the main plot being pretty much tied up.

New story line, some of the main characters from last series. Helps to have watched the first series to understand the characters.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 18 October, 2021, 04:17:49 pm
The harbour area is fine, if you like generic corp-o-America with lots of glass and upscale dining experiences. There's still a whole lotta of Baltimore you don't want to go to (best seen from the train as it threads though to the station, there's still neighbourhoods of mostly derelict rowhouses and burnt out businesses). It's still a shock that you have to remind yourself you're looking at the richest nation in the world. That said, there are parts of Washington DC where you wouldn't go without a tank.

I once participated in a Critical Mass though Baltimore, including through some of those less than prosperous neighbourhoods. My only experience of Baltimore prior to that was via John Waters, The Wire and the glass fronted harbour area so was somewhat trepidatious. But the reception from locals was much more supportive there than it was downtown.

They were probably mostly bemused. I've wandered through parts of north Philly (cue incredulity from American colleagues) without being murdered, though I confess I felt very out-of-place and wasn't inclined to dawdle or repeat the experience after dark.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Croft on 18 October, 2021, 04:41:32 pm
There were about a 1000 of us on bicycles dressed in various Halloween outfits, which helped.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 18 October, 2021, 08:53:45 pm
Mrs C was not taken with 'the cleaner'. Lasted 10min.


A very variable series. I enjoyed the first (with Helena Bonham-Carter) and the fourth (with Stephanie Cole). The others I didn't get beyond the first 5 minutes.  The sixth was pulled because David Amess  ::-).

I didn't think much of the 1st ep but persevered and thought it improved.
Ah, that explains why I got Miranda on the PVR then.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 18 October, 2021, 10:04:43 pm
Seeing the comments here & in The Guardian I gave the 1st ep of Guilt a try.
That's right up my street. Wonder how it'll keep up for 4 episodes though..
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 18 October, 2021, 10:47:00 pm
. It had me absolutely mesmerised from the start. I think I watched that first episode at least three times.

There's a lot of debate over whether Breaking Bad or The Wire is best. I think they're too different to really compare them, but I'd give The Wire the nod.

Well....I'm one episode in, and whilst I hope it will improve, if I'd never heard of it and turned it on I would almost certainly have turned it off within 10 minutes.

It's just...well...generic. It's clichéd almost to the point of painful, the dialogue is tedious and the cinematography is, well there isn't any. I couldn't wait for it to finish so I could go to bed.

Let's see what episode 2 brings.

It just goes to show how tastes differ, I suppose

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 19 October, 2021, 09:43:06 pm
Episode 2...much better.

Still having difficulty following the conversations between the policemen
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: sg37409 on 19 October, 2021, 10:12:46 pm
I love The Wire and have watched all series maybe 3 times now.  I still cant make out much of what Marlo Stanfields generals say !
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: StuAff on 19 October, 2021, 11:08:03 pm
I quickly cottoned on to the fact that subtitles are pretty much essential for watching The Wire. When you combine the accents, the mumbling and the jargon, it's much easier when you can read it. Snoop probably the hardest of all to understand (she doesn't appear until S3).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 19 October, 2021, 11:14:50 pm
Yes, the sound quality is really bad, but I think also the acting and the writing are a bit poo at episode 1 and 2 level
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 19 October, 2021, 11:18:02 pm
I quickly cottoned on to the fact that subtitles are pretty much essential for watching The Wire. When you combine the accents, the mumbling and the jargon, it's much easier when you can read it. Snoop probably the hardest of all to understand (she doesn't appear until S3).
I find with most modern series and films I need subtitles because of the current trend of mixing whispering with loud music.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 19 October, 2021, 11:20:41 pm
I quickly cottoned on to the fact that subtitles are pretty much essential for watching The Wire. When you combine the accents, the mumbling and the jargon, it's much easier when you can read it. Snoop probably the hardest of all to understand (she doesn't appear until S3).
I find with most modern series and films I need subtitles because of the current trend of mixing whispering with loud music.

That.  There's also something about USAnian microphone technique that I find harder to listen to.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 20 October, 2021, 12:03:14 am
Rafe Spall mumbled his incomprehensible way through the entirety of the TV adaptation of He Kills Coppers so it ent just a USAnian high crime/misdemeanour.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 20 October, 2021, 08:22:41 am
Might just be our age

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 23 October, 2021, 08:46:32 am
Now up to episode 6 and I'm really enjoying it. So much going on. Wondering if and when Cedric Daniels will eventually smile.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 23 October, 2021, 10:27:36 am
Good documentary on Frank Zappa on BBC4 last night.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 30 October, 2021, 09:44:06 am
I'm on episode 8 of The Wire. It's very, very good. Such a range of characters and themes. The two blandest characters are Avon Barksdale and Stringer. Not sure whether this is deliberate, but they seem like the only two without a personality.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 30 October, 2021, 12:07:52 pm
Not how I remember it, at least with Stringer. Or maybe his character developed after S1. Neither ever came close to Omar though.

Are you aware of the structure of the whole, how each of series 2-5 shifts focus onto a different Baltimore, for want of a better word, institution - with the thread of police/drugs obviously continuing throughout?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 30 October, 2021, 12:22:14 pm
I'm only on S1 so it's still just police and drugs gangs.

Yeah, Omar is great, scary predatory psychopath but also a loving, emotional realist, and a product of his environment.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 31 October, 2021, 02:38:43 am
Not how I remember it, at least with Stringer. Or maybe his character developed after S1. Neither ever came close to Omar though.

I think Stringer really comes into his own in series 3. He’s an extremely cold fish in the first series.

Omar is just one of the best characters in any tv series ever.
Title: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 31 October, 2021, 02:43:45 am
Seeing the comments here & in The Guardian I gave the 1st ep of Guilt a try.
That's right up my street. Wonder how it'll keep up for 4 episodes though..

It’s great.

We’ve just started watching the second series. I wasn’t sure what scope there was for continuing it after the way the first series ended but it’s very good indeed.

One thing I don’t remember from the first series is how great the music is - Fat White Family and Working Men’s Club in one episode. That’s fucking cool.

Only disappointment in the second series so far is no Bill Paterson. But the replacement is pretty good. And Mark Bonnar is still reliably excellent.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 01 November, 2021, 09:52:21 pm
Latest episode of Succession was breathtakingly good. It’s like a Shakespearean tragedy.

Some cracking lines too…

“The DOJ is coming in like a combine harvester in a wheat field of dicks.”

Hard to believe Matthew Macfadyen is the same guy who was in Spooks.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 01 November, 2021, 10:20:02 pm
After the first two episodes in this series I thought it was losing its way a little - a bit aimless. Not any more.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 02 November, 2021, 02:00:56 pm
After the first two episodes in this series I thought it was losing its way a little - a bit aimless. Not any more.

I think the first two episodes were just warming us up. Not sure I could have coped if they'd gone in that hard from the start.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Von Broad on 07 November, 2021, 09:03:53 pm
Finding Jack Charlton

BBC 2
Nov 7th Sunday 9pm

Wonderful piece of film making
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 November, 2021, 12:13:20 pm
Arcane.

If you at all like anime steampunk, give this a go. Go. Only watched three episodes but it's rather savage.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 19 November, 2021, 11:59:14 pm
Fans of amiable nutter and bicyclist TV's Guy Martin might wish to know he has a new multi-part series starting at hours 21:00 on Monday Nov the twenty-twoth on 4, in which he and a couple of bonkers mates convert various unsuitable vehicles into racing ones.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 20 November, 2021, 12:23:17 am
And an hour later, on the same channel, another amiable bicyclist, David O'Doherty will lead rides with 4 different celeb friends - Grayson Perry, Richard Ayoade, Mel Giedroyc and Joe Wilkinson. That's 4 hour-long shows with a different celeb on each one.

https://tellymix.co.uk/tv/598082-david-odoherty-and-celebrity-guests-to-cycle-across-the-uk-in-new-channel-4-series.html (https://tellymix.co.uk/tv/598082-david-odoherty-and-celebrity-guests-to-cycle-across-the-uk-in-new-channel-4-series.html)

Quote
The Ride (w/t) is a comedy interview show on two wheels that delivers lots of laughter, proper conversation and stunning scenery while meditating on the physical and mental health benefits of cycling. The series sees David and his guests ride along spectacular routes in Wales, Northumberland, Dungeness in Kent and along the Suffolk coast. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 20 November, 2021, 05:58:21 pm
Sounds good!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: perpetual dan on 20 November, 2021, 07:53:33 pm
I’ve got The Lakes with Simon Reeve on. I came for the landscape. I’ve got one of the most personal, thoughtful bits of tv about hardship I’ve seen for a while.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 20 November, 2021, 08:26:32 pm
I’ve got The Lakes with Simon Reeve on. I came for the landscape. I’ve got one of the most personal, thoughtful bits of tv about hardship I’ve seen for a while.

I think Reeves is an underrated TV gem. I discovered him doing films about 3rd world countries (and 3rd world bits of US cities). Always brilliant.

Cumbria is a precious place to my family, so I wasn't sure what to expect ... but Simon came up trumps. A great mixture of landscapes, human stories, and analysis on the future of farming in a National Park. Fantastic telly.

(and red squirrels.)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: sg37409 on 20 November, 2021, 08:42:12 pm
And an hour later, on the same channel, another amiable bicyclist, David O'Doherty will lead rides with 4 different celeb friends - Grayson Perry, Richard Ayoade, Mel Giedroyc and Joe Wilkinson. That's 4 hour-long shows with a different celeb on each one.

https://tellymix.co.uk/tv/598082-david-odoherty-and-celebrity-guests-to-cycle-across-the-uk-in-new-channel-4-series.html (https://tellymix.co.uk/tv/598082-david-odoherty-and-celebrity-guests-to-cycle-across-the-uk-in-new-channel-4-series.html)

Quote
The Ride (w/t) is a comedy interview show on two wheels that delivers lots of laughter, proper conversation and stunning scenery while meditating on the physical and mental health benefits of cycling. The series sees David and his guests ride along spectacular routes in Wales, Northumberland, Dungeness in Kent and along the Suffolk coast. 

Monday 10pm C4
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: sg37409 on 20 November, 2021, 08:47:48 pm
Not how I remember it, at least with Stringer. Or maybe his character developed after S1. Neither ever came close to Omar though.

I think Stringer really comes into his own in series 3. He’s an extremely cold fish in the first series.

Omar is just one of the best characters in any tv series ever.

Bubz bubbles is a great character too.   He’s one of the constants through all the series and incredibly touching at times
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 20 November, 2021, 09:48:43 pm
I’ve got The Lakes with Simon Reeve on. I came for the landscape. I’ve got one of the most personal, thoughtful bits of tv about hardship I’ve seen for a while.

It was an excellent episode. Just watched it for the second time. Ep 2 is on tomorrow night I believe.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 20 November, 2021, 10:01:22 pm
Finished watching s2 of Guilt. Not as good or the same feel as s1, but alright.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: perpetual dan on 20 November, 2021, 10:04:37 pm
I’ve got The Lakes with Simon Reeve on. I came for the landscape. I’ve got one of the most personal, thoughtful bits of tv about hardship I’ve seen for a while.

It was an excellent episode. Just watched it for the second time. Ep 2 is on tomorrow night I believe.
Ah thanks! It hadn’t occurred to me that it wouldn’t be weekly.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 21 November, 2021, 12:15:03 pm
I think it is weekly, and last night was a repeat.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0011p16/broadcasts/upcoming
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 23 November, 2021, 01:05:11 am
Fans of amiable nutter and bicyclist TV's Guy Martin might wish to know he has a new multi-part series starting at hours 21:00 on Monday Nov the twenty-twoth on 4, in which he and a couple of bonkers mates convert various unsuitable vehicles into racing ones.

He's got a new van!  And it ent a Ford Transit :o
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 23 November, 2021, 03:22:38 am
On series 3 of the Wire now.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Redlight on 26 November, 2021, 11:37:18 am
Anybody started watching Get Back yet? 

My teenage son has shown me how to access Disney+ on my laptop so I suspect I shall be plugging in the headphones and watching part one tonight while the rest of the house thrills to I'm A Nonentity and Am Going to Sack my Agent.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: perpetual dan on 30 November, 2021, 10:22:20 pm
We’re a couple of episodes into “another life” on Netflix. We’ve already had a dreams episode, and few of them would have been selected for Apollo missions, but there’s quite a lot of astronauts in their pants.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 02 December, 2021, 11:25:01 pm
We’re a couple of episodes into “another life” on Netflix. We’ve already had a dreams episode, and few of them would have been selected for Apollo missions, but there’s quite a lot of astronauts in their pants.

Dear god, I can tolerate low budget, and even bad acting, but this is a special kind of awful.  It's like someone who knows nothing about SCIENCE wrote a story about the people you hated at school exploring the universe, and they cast a load of The CW rejects to play them.  In their pants.

The only likeable character, who by no coincidence has remained fully clothed throughout, is the AI with the speech impediment (which I think is a misguided attempt to sound BRITISH).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 03 December, 2021, 09:44:09 am
We’re a couple of episodes into “another life” on Netflix. We’ve already had a dreams episode, and few of them would have been selected for Apollo missions, but there’s quite a lot of astronauts in their pants.

Dear god, I can tolerate low budget, and even bad acting, but this is a special kind of awful.  It's like someone who knows nothing about SCIENCE wrote a story about the people you hated at school exploring the universe, and they cast a load of The CW rejects to play them.  In their pants.

The only likeable character, who by no coincidence has remained fully clothed throughout, is the AI with the speech impediment (which I think is a misguided attempt to sound BRITISH).

Quote
Review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes reports that 6% of 18 critic ratings are positive for the series

I think I lasted 5 min in the first episode.

If you are going to do hard sci fi, at least get orbital mechanics slightly correct. Maybe use Kerbal?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 03 December, 2021, 06:27:44 pm
I'm sure I've mentioned it too, it's utterly awful. I think we managed a couple of episodes, mostly because we couldn't really believe it was that bad. Then it got worse. It wasn't even funny bad. I imagine in a meeting room somewhere this was pitched as what if we merged a reality TV show with a science fiction premise and everyone had snorted so much coke it sounded like a good idea. Surely they must have come down at some point and thought what the fuck did we do? At that point the correct would have been to can it and book a month in rehab. Unfortunately, Netflix who despite the money, just seem mostly unable to produce decent movies and tv.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 04 December, 2021, 12:28:46 am
If you are going to do hard sci fi, at least get orbital mechanics slightly correct. Maybe use Kerbal?

I think this is "hard sci fi" in the 'too difficult' sense.

Also, wossname was perfectly competent at acting when she was in Battlestar Galactica, so I'm not sure why she's lost the ability to do humanoid facial expressions...?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 December, 2021, 12:30:35 pm
We have started watching 'Shetland'.

My goodness, I'm glad I moved to the Outer Hebrides and not Shetland! People only seem to last 5min out there!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 06 December, 2021, 12:36:27 pm
Quite a lot of it was filmed in Dumfries & Galloway, although a woman working in a bookshop in Lerwick told us that everyone she knew had been an extra in it at least once.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 06 December, 2021, 01:10:40 pm
We have started watching 'Shetland'.

My goodness, I'm glad I moved to the Outer Hebrides and not Shetland! People only seem to last 5min out there!

A friend's been watching, and intermittently tweeting about, that.  I missed that it was the name of a series for a while, with hilarious consequences.

It certainly seems to be up there with Midsomer for the abnormally high gruesome murder rate.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 06 December, 2021, 01:22:00 pm
On to series 5 of The Wire. Series 3 was, so far, the poorest (INHumbleO), the rest were great. The writing is great but so is the acting.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 December, 2021, 01:38:30 pm
Quite a lot of it was filmed in Dumfries & Galloway, although a woman working in a bookshop in Lerwick told us that everyone she knew had been an extra in it at least once.

That is disappointing.
I was surprised last night about how green and not-rocky Shetland was (compared to the Outer Hebrides). 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 06 December, 2021, 01:53:29 pm
For viewing confusion, location-wise, I commend to you "Professor T" A very odd offering. A remake of a Belgian original, but set in Cambridge. Except it's very obviously largely filmed in Belgium (Antwerp I believe), with obvious clues like yellow post boxes popping up. It also retains some of the original programmes character names, such as Sgt. Donkers. Bizarre.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 06 December, 2021, 02:30:53 pm
Quite a lot of it was filmed in Dumfries & Galloway, although a woman working in a bookshop in Lerwick told us that everyone she knew had been an extra in it at least once.

That is disappointing.
I was surprised last night about how green and not-rocky Shetland was (compared to the Outer Hebrides).

IIRC the long shots in outdoor scenes are shot in Shetland and Jimmy's house in Lerwick actually exists but the rest is done on the mainland, much of it in and around a village one over from where Dougie Henshall lives.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 06 December, 2021, 04:31:41 pm
On to series 5 of The Wire. Series 3 was, so far, the poorest (INHumbleO), the rest were great. The writing is great but so is the acting.

I'm surprised you haven't said specifically what you thought of series 4. Or was there no real comparison with your professional experience?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: robgul on 06 December, 2021, 05:03:13 pm
We have started watching 'Shetland'.

My goodness, I'm glad I moved to the Outer Hebrides and not Shetland! People only seem to last 5min out there!

We watched all the episodes and enjoyed them, although it get a bit confusing in about episode 3  - and it's obvious from the climax that there will be another series (I think I read that they filmed both series at the same time - presumably for next year some time?)

One question (with a modest spoiler) - Tosh tests pregnant at the end (that's not really part of the latest series plot) - BUT from her appearances in the current series it looks as if she may have been pregnant for real - normally wearing a voluminous coat, or filmed behind a desk/PC screen/car etc.    In real life the actress has had a baby quite recently.

Be interesting to see the next series and how her pregnancy features.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 10 December, 2021, 11:22:11 am
The Expanse season 6 (final) just started on Prime.

I've picked up the final book (#9) in the series, Leviathan Falls.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 11 December, 2021, 03:53:21 am
The Expanse season 6 (final) just started on Prime.

I've picked up the final book (#9) in the series, Leviathan Falls.

Yeah, I'm just about done with the book and will finish that before starting Season 6.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 11 December, 2021, 05:35:12 am
On to series 5 of The Wire. Series 3 was, so far, the poorest (INHumbleO), the rest were great. The writing is great but so is the acting.

I'm surprised you haven't said specifically what you thought of series 4. Or was there no real comparison with your professional experience?

That's a good point, and yes it was very pertinent. It was weird watching it now, 15 years after production, because to some extent US experience was a precursor to UK experience in education.

Still is, actually. You may have seen my posts on another thread about my own school adopting draconian 'ready to learn' strategies....its a US import. And we are asked to use a teaching model based on Rosenshine, again American.

So yes the stuff about SAT/GCSE type tests was very much the same stuff that has gone on in UK.

Over here the floor targets took no account, until progress
 8,  of school intake, so all sorts of shenanigans went on to try and get close to the unachievable, most notably making the weakest, disruptive kids disappear by "off rolling". 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Russell on 11 December, 2021, 04:34:30 pm
Tosh tests pregnant at the end (that's not really part of the latest series plot) - BUT from her appearances in the current series it looks as if she may have been pregnant for real - normally wearing a voluminous coat, or filmed behind a desk/PC screen/car etc.    In real life the actress has had a baby quite recently.

Be interesting to see the next series and how her pregnancy features.

That was a very fine piece of acting from her as she was working out whether she was pleased or not.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mllePB on 12 December, 2021, 01:14:32 pm
Quite a lot of it was filmed in Dumfries & Galloway, although a woman working in a bookshop in Lerwick told us that everyone she knew had been an extra in it at least once.

That is disappointing.
I was surprised last night about how green and not-rocky Shetland was (compared to the Outer Hebrides).

IIRC the long shots in outdoor scenes are shot in Shetland and Jimmy's house in Lerwick actually exists but the rest is done on the mainland, much of it in and around a village one over from where Dougie Henshall lives.

Watched it for the scenery shots.  Spotting genuine Shetland shots was part of the interest. Trees/shrubs are a mainline giveaway. Wheelie bins are a giveaway too - the isles only have very squat boxes covered with (fish?) netting.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 13 December, 2021, 10:51:04 pm
After the first two episodes in this series I thought it was losing its way a little - a bit aimless. Not any more.

I think the first two episodes were just warming us up. Not sure I could have coped if they'd gone in that hard from the start.

How's your heart rate?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 December, 2021, 08:49:12 am
Quite a lot of it was filmed in Dumfries & Galloway, although a woman working in a bookshop in Lerwick told us that everyone she knew had been an extra in it at least once.

That is disappointing.
I was surprised last night about how green and not-rocky Shetland was (compared to the Outer Hebrides).

IIRC the long shots in outdoor scenes are shot in Shetland and Jimmy's house in Lerwick actually exists but the rest is done on the mainland, much of it in and around a village one over from where Dougie Henshall lives.

Watched it for the scenery shots.  Spotting genuine Shetland shots was part of the interest. Trees/shrubs are a mainline giveaway. Wheelie bins are a giveaway too - the isles only have very squat boxes covered with (fish?) netting.
Really? We have Wheelie bins here on Lewis - just tied down or held down with special devices.

I had no idea about the trees/shrubs thing. It does look a lot greener and less rocky than Lewis or Harris.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 16 December, 2021, 08:26:57 pm
Fans of amiable nutter and bicyclist TV's Guy Martin might wish to know he has a new multi-part series starting at hours 21:00 on Monday Nov the twenty-twoth on 4, in which he and a couple of bonkers mates convert various unsuitable vehicles into racing ones.

And on Sunday next he's doing Stuffs with a Lancaster :jurek:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 21 December, 2021, 01:01:37 pm
We’ll finish watching the recordings tonight, but it’ll be on iPlayer, a Swedish crime sort-of-reconstruction, The Hunt for a Killer. Based around real investigations, and excellently underplayed by the cast.
Title: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 21 December, 2021, 08:04:40 pm
After the first two episodes in this series I thought it was losing its way a little - a bit aimless. Not any more.

I think the first two episodes were just warming us up. Not sure I could have coped if they'd gone in that hard from the start.

How's your heart rate?

I’m a few episodes behind. Not been in much of a TV watching mood lately. I’ve heard the finale is a big one, but fortunately have been able to avoid spoilers so far.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Wowbagger on 25 December, 2021, 07:31:56 pm
My Dear Wife has found on Youtube a very ancient (1978) Morecambe & Wise Christmas Special with Harold Wilson as the special guest. I don't remember that particular episode. Jan was pregnant with Dez at the time.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 25 December, 2021, 08:11:30 pm
The BBC has just shown the 1971 M&W Christmas show with Shirley Bassey, Glenda Jackson and Andrew Preview, and are currently screening a previously lost edition from 1970.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 27 December, 2021, 08:56:57 pm
The Witcher, Season 2. Much improved from Season 1.  I enjoyed it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 27 December, 2021, 10:31:37 pm
Oh I forgot to say for anyone interested the first new Travel Man was on tonight.
Yes I know it won't be the same without Richard Ayoade.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 28 December, 2021, 12:17:29 am
Oh I forgot to say for anyone interested the first new Travel Man was on tonight.
Yes I know it won't be the same without Richard Ayoade.
wtaf?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 December, 2021, 10:11:48 am
I had been watching Cowboy Bepob, but . . .

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 29 December, 2021, 11:32:59 am
Oh I forgot to say for anyone interested the first new Travel Man was on tonight.
Yes I know it won't be the same without Richard Ayoade.

We were obliged to watch that because:
New presenter bloke self-described as a cut-price Julian Clary and is mildly annoying.  Mr Bailey was as mirthsome as ever.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 01 January, 2022, 02:43:38 pm
It’s a repeat from five years ago, but Revolting Rhymes on iPlayer at the moment is absolutely brilliant.  Several Dahl pomes cleverly woven together, with beautiful animation.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 01 January, 2022, 07:33:32 pm
Binging on Grimm. It shouldn't work, but it's a concept that's so stupid and so well executed that it does.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 06 January, 2022, 01:26:37 pm
Mrs Legs and I are watching the heavily-trailed The Tourist on iPlayer.  It's a bit (read: very) far-fetched in many respects, but there's an entertaining amount of KILLIN' TO DETH and we're being kept surprised and amused.  Halfway through ep 5 of 6.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 11 January, 2022, 07:47:15 pm
We watched Vigil on iPlayer, a 6-part submarine crime drama. We both really enjoyed it.

Minor problem with the last episode - no subtitles, so I had to translate some of the dialogue from Scottish accented English so Klaus could understand it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 12 January, 2022, 03:35:21 pm
Watched the Tourist.  Pro Tip: Stop watching after Episode 5.  Episode 6 is the end of the LotR with multiple endings that add nothing to the story IMO.  We paused on Mon night with 45 min to go of E6 and Tuesday night decided we wished we had left it there.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 13 January, 2022, 07:18:09 am
We watched Vigil on iPlayer, a 6-part submarine crime drama. We both really enjoyed it.

Minor problem with the last episode - no subtitles, so I had to translate some of the dialogue from Scottish accented English so Klaus could understand it.

I'm watching this now. Production quality is really low, but the acting is reasonable and the story is quite good.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 13 January, 2022, 11:39:57 am
We didn't rate Vigil much, far too much suspension of disbelief required regarding the crew behaviour. Then we tried The Long Call, meh. Just finished Shetland - not too bad, and certainly the only Anne Cleeve adaptation (see the previously mentioned Long Call, and the execrable Vera) we've liked.

Probably be The Tourist next.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 13 January, 2022, 11:03:22 pm
Rules of the Game on iPlayer.  Finished episode 2 and so far so good, I could see it going either way though.  I am finding it irritating that they keep implying that 2010 had the same sort of work culture you had in the 70s.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 13 January, 2022, 11:09:45 pm
Two episodes into the most recent series of “Shetland”.  I am of the opinion that Jimmy is barking up the wrong gatepost* and also that the Scotsman did it.

* Not enough trees in Shetland to waste any on on being barked up, obv.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 14 January, 2022, 05:47:24 pm
Would I Lie to You?
Why did no-one tell me that this series is a new one - I'll have to catch up with the first 2 episodes.

And...

*Klaxon*

Bob Mortimer is a guest on tonight's show!

Woop woop.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: orienteer on 15 January, 2022, 02:07:22 pm
Cycling around Japan series on NHK World. Live today at 17.10 and 21.10, or on demand.

On the web: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/tv/cycle/20220115/2066042/ (https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/tv/cycle/20220115/2066042/)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 16 January, 2022, 01:26:59 am
Cheers for the heads-up Nuncio!

Rules of the Game was good - and Bonus: Short (4 episodes).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 16 January, 2022, 05:05:21 am
Binged the entire series of Afterlife 3 last night.

Genuinely don't understand why people rate it. Ricky Gervase as tragic angel. Handing out cheques in a children's cancer ward. FFS.

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 16 January, 2022, 11:28:53 am
Binged the entire series of Afterlife 3 last night.

Genuinely don't understand why people rate it. Ricky Gervase as tragic angel. Handing out cheques in a children's cancer ward. FFS.

I heard him being interviewed about it on the radio the other day. It put me off wanting to watch it.

Sometimes, I think he based David Brent on himself.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 16 January, 2022, 12:30:20 pm
It's so self-masturbatory. All of it.

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: TimC on 17 January, 2022, 01:33:29 am
The snooker masters was definitely worth watching.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 17 January, 2022, 05:39:59 am
Just finished the Expanse S6 and it was quite good. It hasn't been renewed yet and they managed to tie up most of the loose ends.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: TPMB12 on 17 January, 2022, 08:48:46 am
I'd hazard a guess that there's a few things you saw last night that's worth watching the second,  third, fourth,  etc time it's been put on. Seriously,  how many channels would there be needed if they only broadcast new programmes? Last night there was nothing on at all of interest. Ended up watching YouTube instead. My LG smart TV was a good buy with all those streaming options and apps.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 17 January, 2022, 12:58:56 pm
Just finished the Expanse S6 and it was quite good. It hasn't been renewed yet and they managed to tie up most of the loose ends.

I've just re-watched S1 with a view to giving it another chance.  It's much better when your expectations are re-calibrated away from Babylon 5, as I'd previously got hung up on the Poundland Garibaldi.  I'm suspicious that whatever version I watched the first time round had a dodgy audio mix, as it didn't seem anywhere near as hard to follow.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 17 January, 2022, 01:00:42 pm
I'd hazard a guess that there's a few things you saw last night that's worth watching the second,  third, fourth,  etc time it's been put on. Seriously,  how many channels would there be needed if they only broadcast new programmes? Last night there was nothing on at all of interest. Ended up watching YouTube instead. My LG smart TV was a good buy with all those streaming options and apps.

At risk of sounding like a Young Person, we don't need any channels; broadcast television is obsolete.  Why would you let someone in an office last week choose what you're going to watch and when?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 17 January, 2022, 06:37:18 pm
Just finished the Expanse S6 and it was quite good. It hasn't been renewed yet and they managed to tie up most of the loose ends.

I've just re-watched S1 with a view to giving it another chance.  It's much better when your expectations are re-calibrated away from Babylon 5, as I'd previously got hung up on the Poundland Garibaldi.  I'm suspicious that whatever version I watched the first time round had a dodgy audio mix, as it didn't seem anywhere near as hard to follow.

I remember watching it first time around, thinking it was decent. Then read the book, went back and re-watched S1 and they had tons more detail that  I never picked up the first time around.
What was more impressive, was that it was a SyFy channel production, who rarely succeeded in making anything of quality.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 17 January, 2022, 07:57:42 pm
I'd hazard a guess that there's a few things you saw last night that's worth watching the second,  third, fourth,  etc time it's been put on. Seriously,  how many channels would there be needed if they only broadcast new programmes? Last night there was nothing on at all of interest. Ended up watching YouTube instead. My LG smart TV was a good buy with all those streaming options and apps.

At risk of sounding like a Young Person, we don't need any channels; broadcast television is obsolete.  Why would you let someone in an office last week choose what you're going to watch and when?

I'm not getting any younger, but we dumped broadcast tv some decades ago, we were never organized enough to plan any kind of viewing and recording schedule and, tbh, we rarely watch more than an hour's tv a day other than movies at the weekend. Probably a hangover from my parents who turned on a TV in the mid-70s and have yet to turn it off.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 18 January, 2022, 07:58:16 am
Not tonight, and watchability to be decided, but I think this is the first TV adaptation of a Jack Reacher book, the very first, Killing Floor. To debut on Amazon Prime om Feb. 4th.  At least the leasing actor is more appropriate - one Alan Ritchson, 39 years of age and 6' 2" tall - than Tom Cruise.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 18 January, 2022, 09:31:08 am
Why would you let someone in an office last week choose what you're going to watch and when?

The popular word for it these days is "curating" - I want someone exercising editorial judgment to filter out the dross and put the best stuff on the telly at prime time, when I'm most likely to be sitting down in front of the box. (Although I suppose "prime time" is perhaps also an obsolete concept.)

Having countless viewing streams at your disposal is the myth of choice again - they're not really offering you choice, they're trying to make you spend money. Capitalism writ large.

I haven't got time to watch anything more than a small fraction of what's on offer.

I am quite enjoying The Tourist though.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 18 January, 2022, 10:24:59 am
We have Prime, Netflix, and DisneyPlus, that's enough for us. Plus we're binging on Grimm at the moment and there's about five series of that, so I expect that will tide us through for a few more weeks. I'm sure we forget about most of the stuff we think we're going to watch. I'm never sure how the people I know find the time to watch as much TV as they evidently do. My parents, on the other hand, find the time because that's really all they do.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 18 January, 2022, 10:32:38 am
I haven't even got time to watch all the things I genuinely want to watch.

I cancelled Disney Plus after I finished working my way through the Marvel films because I was never watching anything else on it. Frankly, I can live without yet another Star Wars spin-off series.

We have Netflix, which works out at quite reasonable value for money. I finally got round to starting Squid Game recently. Very good.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 18 January, 2022, 10:33:56 am
A Western Isle local told us "Netflix is a life saver in winter.".

The winter days are short, the nights are long. It isn't very inviting to do much in the rain and howling gale, so I see his point.

We have fallen into the dreadful habit of eating in front of the telly. 1.5 - 2.5hrs of zoning out a night.

Except last night - we spent 1hr playing with kitten.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 18 January, 2022, 12:02:58 pm
We always eat in front of the TV, my wife is often out till 10 pm in her various activities (which are gradually resuming), so by the time I've cooked, it's usually 10.30-11 pm*. I can't eat early now, even in restaurants I don't want to contemplate a table before 9.30 pm. But generally, I think an hour spent zoned out in front of the TV while I spoon pasta into my mouth is a good thing.

We only got DisneyPlus to watch the Marvel series which, of course, we've yet to do. It did have the Die Hards, which saved me rooting out the DVDs.

*her mother is convinced that eating after 10 pm might be fatal, you might die of ingestion in your sleep she opines.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Flite on 18 January, 2022, 05:30:03 pm
I really miss being able to have a conversation over a meal.
My husband is hard of hearing, and basically can't hear while he is eating, so waste of effort talking to him.
He has a device that means he can hear the TV while eating, but then he can't hear me, so I can't even make comments on what we are watching. But it is better than eating in an empty silence.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 18 January, 2022, 07:14:24 pm
I'm quite not sure what the official etiquette on switching to sign language when your mouth is full is[1], but it's occasionally quite useful...


[1] Probably something about putting your drink down first.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 20 January, 2022, 05:14:20 pm
Cobra Kai (4) on Netflix.  Yes, it's cheesy, but entertaining stuff.  Back in the deepest 80s I watched the original Karate Kid as a teenager, so feel an element of justication when taking in the scroll forward in time.   ;)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 21 January, 2022, 05:43:00 am
BBC4 is re running The Impressionists: Painting and Revolution, Waldemar Januszczak's series. Its excellent.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 21 January, 2022, 04:27:49 pm
Ooh, thanks for that.  Don't think I've seen all of those.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 21 January, 2022, 08:44:25 pm
And we (my wife and I, not the royal “we”) would thoroughly recommend Andy Warhol’s America, a 3 part BBC 2 series. Really excellent (apart from too much Jerry Hall in the last instalment!)
Title: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 22 January, 2022, 06:58:06 am
Finished The Tourist last night. Excellent. Strong shades of Fargo, I thought.

And contrary to what others have said, I thought the ending was very good.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: farfetched on 22 January, 2022, 08:00:26 am
The final series of Ozark on Netflix , first 7 episodes have been released. Should keep me entertained this weekend even though Mrs F hates it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: sam on 22 January, 2022, 08:09:57 am
I was pleased to see the new Ozark too.

(https://i.imgur.com/ikUgbQN.jpg)

Just awaiting Better Call Saul to achieve rapture.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 24 January, 2022, 08:53:39 pm
Yes, Ozark!  Whoa, gripping stuff.  Season 4 Pt2 later this year apparently.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 24 January, 2022, 11:26:50 pm
Finished The Tourist last night. Excellent. Strong shades of Fargo, I thought.

And contrary to what others have said, I thought the ending was very good.

(click to show/hide)
It's not any plot twist or how they ended it that annoyed me, more that they did a LotR and ended it four times in the last 40 mins.

Around the world in 80 days, I would not go so far as to call it actually good, but watchable.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 27 January, 2022, 10:03:58 am
Unbelievable on Netflix

It is hard watching, but also compelling viewing.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: sam on 27 January, 2022, 02:13:11 pm
Yes, Ozark!  Whoa, gripping stuff.

There’s a casually terrifying scene from the first season which shows how easy it is to buy a gun (https://tinyurl.com/3vnwre22) in my mother country (remember Tuck? (https://youtu.be/HuqagqnaDmY)).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fruitcake on 29 January, 2022, 09:21:04 am
I watched this BBC documentary this week about TV presenter Jay Blades  learning to read as an adult. Was moved to tears by his vulnerability and determination. Interested to see the teaching process and heartened by the support he received from family and colleagues. A good watch.

https://t.co/xJKkbR7w79
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 01 February, 2022, 12:08:26 pm
Just finished the Expanse S6 and it was quite good. It hasn't been renewed yet and they managed to tie up most of the loose ends.

I've just re-watched S1 with a view to giving it another chance.  It's much better when your expectations are re-calibrated away from Babylon 5, as I'd previously got hung up on the Poundland Garibaldi.  I'm suspicious that whatever version I watched the first time round had a dodgy audio mix, as it didn't seem anywhere near as hard to follow.

Finished S6 last night.  It got much better after S1.

Without getting bogged down in details I'd say "better than the Battlestar Galactica reboot, but not as good as Babylon 5".
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 01 February, 2022, 12:10:48 pm
<Tim_Bisley>
So it’s a big pile of shit then?
</Tim_Bisley>
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 01 February, 2022, 12:27:18 pm
Medium pile of shit, innit.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 February, 2022, 05:33:08 pm
Not tonight, and watchability to be decided, but I think this is the first TV adaptation of a Jack Reacher book, the very first, Killing Floor. To debut on Amazon Prime om Feb. 4th.  At least the leasing actor is more appropriate - one Alan Ritchson, 39 years of age and 6' 2" tall - than Tom Cruise.

I liked one reacher book, hated another (irritated by stupidity of some of the stuff about reacher).

Anyway, the TV series is very true to the book, Alan Ritchson plays it well and has muscled up to match the physical appearance of the character.

Malcom Goodwin (police detective) is a great foil to Reacher.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 06 February, 2022, 11:33:03 am
Yep, I watched it over a couple of evenings, as my wife was away, and enjoyed it. One thing that did strike me was the quantity of violence. I’ve recently read the first Andrew Child Reacher, and didn’t much like it, it seemed far more violent than the last few Lee Child outings, and Reacher had no empathy whatsoever. I think the TV Reacher was a good fit (certainly better than Tom Cruise IMO) but I’d obviously forgotten (well it’s been 25 years!) the violence in The Killing Floor. Lee Child must have been subtlety reigning it in as the character aged.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 08 February, 2022, 11:34:32 pm
My Father loves the Reacher books & lent me "Killing Floor", I skimmed it & wasn't too impressed.  The Amazon version is well done & enjoyable hokum, if you've tolerance for bones being crunched & an un-killable hero.   Full marks for the use of an abandoned bicycle wheel as a defensive weapon as well.  And a good reason for a gentleman to wear a tie.  A handy strangulation aid. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 09 February, 2022, 02:39:50 pm
BBC Playa: Hidden Assets - Irish/Belgian crime story, leaves me confused as to why I live in Brum
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 09 February, 2022, 03:54:16 pm
My parents recommended that to me.  Not much telly-watching time but Pottery Throwdown is easy viewing...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 09 February, 2022, 06:16:31 pm
BBC Playa: Hidden Assets - Irish/Belgian crime story, leaves me confused as to why I live in Brum

We watched that. It was ok but the acting was a bit wooden.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 10 February, 2022, 08:53:19 am
Mandalorian S2.5 (Also known as Boba Fett).
Disney attempts to turn a cold blooded bounty hunter into a nice guy and fails miserably. Maybe it was a bad idea to start with?. The Tusken Raider back story was moderately interesting, but other than that nothing was interesting until the Mandalorian returned.
The worst episodes in general, were the ones directed by Robert Rodriguez. Too many tropes, 'homages', etc. Ray Harryhausen style stop-motion in the first 2 episodes, really bad practical effects (which I know they desperately tried to salvage in post, but there's only so much you can do with crap footage) and then the stupid King Kong re-enactment in the last episode.
...but...most of all, it failed because it tried to turn Boba Fett into a nice guy.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 10 February, 2022, 07:45:14 pm
^^ I mostly liked the bits in foreign.  I assumed all the Irish are wooden
^ that does indeed sound poor.

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: sg37409 on 10 February, 2022, 10:28:11 pm
We're watching,  This is going to hurt on iPlayer.  Loving it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 10 February, 2022, 10:31:02 pm
I had to put the subtitles on for the start of that as I couldn't keep up.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 10 February, 2022, 10:54:54 pm
We're watching,  This is going to hurt on iPlayer.  Loving it.

It's a brilliant book (I would never have guessed it was adaptable). And I love BenW.

If this is half as good as the sum of its parts ...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 12 February, 2022, 07:23:25 pm
Came across this after watching the rugby.

The Masked Singer.

Wow! Who needs Public Service Broadcasting when you can have this!!

I think it is  Michael Jackson, in the bedroom, with the candle.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 12 February, 2022, 08:27:58 pm
OMG

It’s

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 12 February, 2022, 11:35:35 pm
BBC Playa: Hidden Assets - Irish/Belgian crime story, leaves me confused as to why I live in Brum

We watched that. It was ok but the acting was a bit wooden.
Having now watched the "thrilling conclusion" I would like to take back 85% of the good things I said about it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 13 February, 2022, 10:43:13 pm
We're watching,  This is going to hurt on iPlayer.  Loving it.
Just goes to show that it takes all sorts; watched episode 1 and not sure why anyone would watch it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 13 February, 2022, 11:09:19 pm
We’ve finished watching The Responder.

Thought it was excellent.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 14 February, 2022, 09:50:34 am
Again, I am at odds with my peers - we couldn't finish watching episode 1 of that,
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 February, 2022, 10:04:26 am
I started watching Chicago Med.

Yes it is Soap.

However, in a medical soap, you'd expect some nod towards medical accuracy. This is as bad as House.

Just watched a doctor 'set' a leg, no xray taken first, by twisting the foot (facing backwards) to the front. No traction to separate the ends of bones. Totally ignoring the structure of the lower leg. ffs.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 February, 2022, 01:49:28 pm
The Expanse, season six

Supposedly the final season. If so, a stupendously weak ending.

Also
(click to show/hide)

Sorry, that was supposed to be in spoilers
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 21 February, 2022, 03:38:08 pm
Filip deserts the Free Navy in Babylon's Ashes and is last heard from trying to earn an honest living under a new name.  No mention in the subsequent books. 


The bit about people being reincarnated in a creepy way happens in Tiamat's Wrath,   but it's not a child who it happens to.  I've not read Perseopolis Rising yet, so don't know the long term outcome. 


If funding for another series was dodgy, then they probably did the best they could.  The occupation of Sol system by the Laconians was omitted completely, so there may be scope for future series.   

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 24 February, 2022, 09:57:54 pm
I'm currently watching Nick Crane scaling the Cioch on Skye in Edwardian climbing gear. Breathtaking.
(Coast, BBC4)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 27 February, 2022, 07:26:45 pm
The Filip/Naomi story is the most annoying thing in the book. It's a poor vehicle and they drag it out for far too long.
Laconia/Proto-molecule is mostly in subsequent books, but to be honest, I think they're the weakest in the series and if they don't make any more TV seasons, I think they ended it as well as they could. (Although they do manage to tie up the ending nicely in the books).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 27 February, 2022, 08:41:17 pm
So I've been binge watching.

I have an excellent appetite for animated stuff. This week I have managed

Tales of Vox Machina
Totally over the top, irreverent, obscene fun. Story of a group of disfunctional, usually drunk, mercenaries in a sword and sorcery fantasy world.

Invincible
If you read superhero comics as a kid, this is for you. Not much humour, very dark and gory. Not many animated programs get an 18 rating.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 07 March, 2022, 09:17:52 am
Servant of the People (Volodymyr Zelenskyy / life imitating art) has dropped onto All4.

May be a bit close to the bone...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 07 March, 2022, 09:51:54 am
We've been watching a Bulgarian Police procedural on All4 The Devils Throat  Nice and pacy and a great sense of place.

ETA And very good it was too, and I learnt about the forced change of names the state imposed on ethnic Turk and Arab Muslims. All in living memory.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: TimC on 07 March, 2022, 12:14:17 pm
Servant of the People (Volodymyr Zelenskyy / life imitating art) has dropped onto All4.

May be a bit close to the bone...

It's a bit cringeworthy to western eyes. The casual normalisation of corruption and sycophancy is stark.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 09 March, 2022, 12:07:39 pm
We've really enjoyed Stanley Tucci; Searching for Italy  Ok, it's a luvy food travelogue, but a cut above the usual. A pleasant way to pass 45 minutes.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 09 March, 2022, 06:09:55 pm
We've been watching a Bulgarian Police procedural on All4 The Devils Throat  Nice and pacy and a great sense of place.
Will look out for that
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 13 March, 2022, 11:22:48 am
Coming up next Saturday on BBC4, the third and final series of “Hidden” already aired in Welsh. IMO not as good as Hinterland was (it’s more “whydunnit” as opposed to “whodunnit”) it’s still worth watching.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 13 March, 2022, 01:39:46 pm
Coming up next Saturday on BBC4, the third and final series of “Hidden” already aired in Welsh. IMO not as good as Hinterland was (it’s more “whydunnit” as opposed to “whodunnit”) it’s still worth watching.
I've still got the previous series sitting on the PVR to watch. I seem to remember starting it just after lockdown and deciding it was too depressing at the time.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 13 March, 2022, 04:34:16 pm
Coming up next Saturday on BBC4, the third and final series of “Hidden” already aired in Welsh. IMO not as good as Hinterland was (it’s more “whydunnit” as opposed to “whodunnit”) it’s still worth watching.
I've still got the previous series sitting on the PVR to watch. I seem to remember starting it just after lockdown and deciding it was too depressing at the time.

Yeah, all dark dripping wet scenes. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 20 March, 2022, 10:37:37 am
I watched the first episode of this new series of Hidden and it didn’t grab me at all (I have watched all the previous series). Is it worth me persevering?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 24 March, 2022, 07:12:19 pm
Last night actually, Storyville on BBC 4,  The Distant Barking of Dogs a documentary filmed during the Donbass conflict in 2017.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 24 March, 2022, 08:21:06 pm
I'm watching that, after having watched Winter on Fire on Netflix - behind the barricades in Maidan Square, 2013/2014. They seem a determined lot, those Ukranians.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 29 March, 2022, 06:10:22 pm
We binge watched The Witchfinder on bbc iplayer this week. Silly fare with Tim Key & Daisy May Cooper.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ravenbait on 29 March, 2022, 06:21:42 pm
I binged the new splinter show from the Boys Diabolical on Prime recently. If you enjoyed the comics and found the real life version a bit tame, give this a go.

Sam
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: coops456 on 06 April, 2022, 09:42:14 am
Rewatching season one of Gentleman Jack on BBC iPlayer, in anticipation of the new series starting on Sunday night. Can't wait!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 07 April, 2022, 01:43:56 pm
BBC4 Storyville - The Truffle Hunters

A slow and beautiful film about elderly truffle hunters in Piedmont. The bits where the guy below talks to his dog about finding someone to look after her when he dies made me quite emotional.

(https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/640x360/p0by4syv.jpg)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 13 April, 2022, 10:57:44 am
Watched the finale of Killing Eve, which I found underwhelming.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 13 April, 2022, 12:03:39 pm
Totally jumped the shark, did Killing Eve...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 13 April, 2022, 12:56:32 pm
We quit midway through the last series, it just didn't grip any more.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 14 April, 2022, 08:48:33 pm
Yay, new Taskmaster!
<dances furiously
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 14 April, 2022, 10:21:32 pm
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 14 April, 2022, 11:32:37 pm
Totally jumped the shark, did Killing Eve...
(https://images.slideplayer.com/20/6220754/slides/slide_10.jpg)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 23 April, 2022, 11:42:10 pm
Hignify is back - I didn't realise.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: drgannet on 28 April, 2022, 10:42:22 pm
Life after life, on iPlayer. Rather enjoyed it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 28 April, 2022, 11:12:10 pm
Watched the BBC2 (rancid waste of money, shud of bene pade by avdertized) programme about Notre Dame de Paris.

Fascinating, if a little Channel 5-ish. Still, they do need to be thinking about the Post-Dorries Era.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 30 April, 2022, 09:04:21 am
Friday, 7pm, Quest, Giro d’Italia highlights begin.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 01 May, 2022, 04:34:26 pm
And next Sat sees the return of Beck to BBC4.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 02 May, 2022, 09:32:21 pm
The Truffle Hunters.
A Storyville on iPlayer.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Robh on 03 May, 2022, 12:00:32 am
The Truffle Hunters.
A Storyville on iPlayer.
This is truly a great piece of documentary film making. A lot of the shots were set up with a painter’s eye, some beautiful images. Plus, it’s a great film for dog lovers  :)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 03 May, 2022, 09:53:05 am
The Truffle Hunters.
A Storyville on iPlayer.

Ooh thanks! I saw the reviews for that and mentally bookmarked it. I had no idea it was on iPlayer.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 03 May, 2022, 09:56:40 am
Did anyone watch the two-part Paul Gascoigne doc that was recently on BBC? "Gazza". Brutal stuff, and a reminder of the sheer evil of Piers Morgan and Rebekah Brooks.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Genosse Brymbo on 04 May, 2022, 03:57:55 pm
Did anyone watch the two-part Paul Gascoigne doc that was recently on BBC? "Gazza". Brutal stuff, and a reminder of the sheer evil of Piers Morgan and Rebekah Brooks.
Yes, and it wasn't Gascoigne's story which stuck with me but the reminder of the phone hacking scandal.  In the documentary none of the "journalists" involved showed any contrition for their actions.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: woollypigs on 20 May, 2022, 07:24:19 am
Derry Girls, the last season (well actually the whole series) and especially the last episode had me in stitches and a flood of tears.

And the loons in #10 are hell bent on ripping up the GFA, arrgghh
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 20 May, 2022, 10:32:34 am
Derry Girls, the last season (well actually the whole series) and especially the last episode had me in stitches and a flood of tears.

And the loons in #10 are hell bent on ripping up the GFA, arrgghh

And selling off C4 to anyone with a suitably large sack of gold.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rogerzilla on 20 May, 2022, 08:09:10 pm
Derry Girls, the last season (well actually the whole series) and especially the last episode had me in stitches and a flood of tears.

And the loons in #10 are hell bent on ripping up the GFA, arrgghh
I didn't think the third series was as good generally, but had two standout moments:

- Stars In Their Eyes
- Orla dancing at the start of the last episode.  Brilliant.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 21 May, 2022, 05:44:00 am
The Truffle Hunters.
A Storyville on iPlayer.

Ooh thanks! I saw the reviews for that and mentally bookmarked it. I had no idea it was on iPlayer.

Garage People was another recent Storyville I really appreciated.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 21 May, 2022, 03:57:56 pm
The Truffle Hunters.
A Storyville on iPlayer.

Ooh thanks! I saw the reviews for that and mentally bookmarked it. I had no idea it was on iPlayer.

Garage People was another recent Storyville I really appreciated.

That was amazing, especially the tunneller “because he could”.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Basil on 23 May, 2022, 08:51:20 pm
The 2nd part of Jim Al-Khalili's two parter 'The Secrets of Size' just beginning on BBC4
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 25 May, 2022, 06:40:32 pm
Derry Girls, the last season (well actually the whole series) and especially the last episode had me in stitches and a flood of tears.

And the loons in #10 are hell bent on ripping up the GFA, arrgghh
I didn't think the third series was as good generally, but had two standout moments:

- Stars In Their Eyes
- Orla dancing at the start of the last episode.  Brilliant.
Totally agree!

(It was quite nice for Orla nice-but-dim to really have A Moment :-) )
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 28 May, 2022, 11:21:43 pm
Missions S3
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 28 May, 2022, 11:29:11 pm
Derry Girls, the last season (well actually the whole series) and especially the last episode had me in stitches and a flood of tears.

And the loons in #10 are hell bent on ripping up the GFA, arrgghh
I didn't think the third series was as good generally, but had two standout moments:

- Stars In Their Eyes
- Orla dancing at the start of the last episode.  Brilliant.
Totally agree!

(It was quite nice for Orla nice-but-dim to really have A Moment :-) )

+1

I assume the conspicuously anachronistic LED lighting in S3 indicates that the set/costume designers were all foetuses.  You expect them to get random items wrong on a television budget, but such a quintessentially noughteens aesthetic in a period piece can only come from people who don't remember the 90s.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 May, 2022, 10:31:40 pm
Started watching moon Knight.

First episode is brilliant and does a great job of conveying what it is like to have a mental perception disorder. A lot of familiar feelings for me in the disorientation and shock that the main character feels
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 03 June, 2022, 12:26:27 am
Missions S3
I should clarify - if you have not done so already - DO NOT WATCH.  I liked S1 and 2, S3 has moments of being interestingly different, but mostly I would rather they had ended at S2.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 08 June, 2022, 08:36:38 pm
I think you're supposed to knowingly disparage Stranger Things to be cool these days. Well, I liked the first series, but..., but I'm really enjoying it. Saved the last double-ep for the weekend. Obviously, it's an intravenous bolus of the era's entertainment tropes, but that's really the point, and it's painted in joyous tones of nostalgia. I'm not entirely sure what younger people think of it, but evidently, they enjoy it. The scene with Max to Running up that Hill is one of the best.

Started watching The Mandalorian on Disney. Bit meh so far. I don't think I ever really liked Star Wars that much.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 08 June, 2022, 09:44:24 pm
The 2nd part of Jim Al-Khalili's two parter 'The Secrets of Size' just beginning on BBC4

Anything by Jim is worth watching.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 09 June, 2022, 11:59:59 am
^ this
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 09 June, 2022, 01:10:21 pm
We Own This City. For those pining for The Wire, back to Baltimore with a David Simon- (and George Pelecanos) written based-on-real-events story of curruption in a BPD Gun Trace Unit. It feels very The Wire-ish with the music, title sequence, and shooting (both senses), but without its ambitious sprawl given that it's a 6-parter. You still have to concentrate, not only to understand the speech but also because there are two intertwined timelines going on.

Extra fun in trying to identify The Wire alumni. I was pleased to recognise Poot and Slim Charles but Jay Landesman was easy despite a loss of girth . If anything he looks younger, not 15 years older.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 09 June, 2022, 04:56:57 pm
I think you're supposed to knowingly disparage Stranger Things to be cool these days.

Not so much that as it is enjoyed by my 12 year old daughter and her friends, which accords with my limited exposure to it.

Very teenage.

That said, production quality on anything Netflix is pretty stunning. I'm sure there is something in it for adults. Just not this one in his mid 50s
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 09 June, 2022, 05:05:50 pm
Given it's in series 4, some of the 'teenagers' who star in it aren't looking so teenage, which I guess is the curse of such programmes. I never saw Harry Potter, but I'm sure the 'kids' were about 40 when the last one aired. Prince Andrew would be disappointed.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 09 June, 2022, 05:14:37 pm
I think you're supposed to knowingly disparage Stranger Things to be cool these days.

Not so much that as it is enjoyed by my 12 year old daughter and her friends, which accords with my limited exposure to it.

Very teenage.

That said, production quality on anything Netflix is pretty stunning. I'm sure there is something in it for adults. Just not this one in his mid 50s

I think Stranger Things is squarely aimed at people in their mid 40s, on account of being lovingly crafted 80s childhood nostalgia.  See also: The latest Ghostbusters film.

I find it eminently watchable, if hardly ground-breaking.


I've never seen (or read) Harry Potter, on the Day of the Triffids principle.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 09 June, 2022, 05:47:49 pm
18-29 according to US viewing figures.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 09 June, 2022, 06:37:52 pm
The 80s is a curiously and persistently attractive era. Do grubby pubs still do 80s disco nights for students to get pissed and have bad sex in the toilets? Asking for a friend, who's got no plans for the weekend.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 09 June, 2022, 06:39:15 pm
If you lived it, there's nothing particularly attractive about the 80s
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: woollypigs on 09 June, 2022, 06:46:57 pm
I watched many a tv-show, where between seasons. Especially the boys hit puberty. Though the story line only moved along a few hours between seasons :)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 13 June, 2022, 01:19:07 pm
I never saw Harry Potter, but I'm sure the 'kids' were about 40 when the last one aired. Prince Andrew would be disappointed.
I think that's why they had a schedule to make a film a year.  The books are set one every year as well so the kids growing up matches the characters.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 13 June, 2022, 10:18:00 pm
Last night but available on iPlayer "Our Falklands War: A Frontline story".

Incredibly moving and rather harrowing account from British veterans of The Falklands War. 

It's a series of interviews with blokes about my age, who came back very changed.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0018c8n/our-falklands-war-a-frontline-story (https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0018c8n/our-falklands-war-a-frontline-story)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 21 June, 2022, 09:35:44 pm
Just catching up with Jim Al-Khalili’s Secrets of Size on iPlayer. Excellent as always. Imperial College featured quite a bit in Ep2, presumably the team TimO is involved in.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 26 June, 2022, 10:49:23 am
Saturday, BBC4, 9pm, the last ever Montalbano, one not broadcast before. So, no “characters based on” follow-ups.

And for those wanting to record this, note that BBC4 HD channel was switched off 2 days ago.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 11 August, 2022, 08:54:20 pm
Hopefully to be repeated, “Inside Japan’s War” on PBS. Fascinating.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 13 August, 2022, 10:43:42 am
And Friday, 10pm, Quest - La Vuelta a Espana highlights.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Basil on 14 August, 2022, 08:33:57 pm
Edgar's Celo Concerto just starting from the RAH on BBC 4.

That's me over there, weeping.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 14 August, 2022, 09:05:44 pm
In disapppintment that it's not the Elgar one?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 14 August, 2022, 09:30:49 pm
J Edgar Cello's Hoover concerto?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Basil on 14 August, 2022, 09:55:52 pm
 ;D ;D  ::-)
Fecking auto carrot.   :facepalm:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Woofage on 16 August, 2022, 12:40:59 pm
The Better Call Saul (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Better_Call_Saul) finale is now available on Netflix.

That's my viewing sorted for the foreseeable as I'm going to re-watch both series (BCS & BB) plus the fillum El Camino in that order (real time, so to speak).
Title: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 16 August, 2022, 11:58:46 pm
I need to get back into Better Call Saul. Stopped midway through S4 for some reason and haven’t got back to it.

In the mean time, I’ve watched the first episode of Sandman this evening. Only been waiting 30+ years for this to come to the screen. It was worth the wait. Breathtaking. And if reports are to be believed, it only gets better as the series goes on.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 17 August, 2022, 12:24:19 am
Guy's Grocery Games on the food network; Supermarket Sweep meets Ready Steady Cook!
(In Norwegian with English subtitles, not)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rogerzilla on 18 August, 2022, 09:48:39 pm
I've started watching Red Rose, which promises to be a teen slasher series set in...Bolton.

The music is oddly anachronistic, though - all from the 90s, although it's supposed to be set in the present day.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 19 August, 2022, 12:28:03 am
I'm currently about a third of the way through "The Jewel In The Crown".  This was on ITV when I was 20,  it was the sort of thing my mother watched & I devoutly ignored. 


It's bloody good,  excellent acting, a decent story & lovely location photography.  The snobbery, prejudice & bitchiness is unbelievable,  and that's just amongst the British!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 19 August, 2022, 10:24:25 am
We're halfway through Sherwood. (Edit) Mostly excellent. The details around the reveal in episodes 4 & 5 didn’t quite stack up for me

On a lighter note, we caught a series on Sky Arts, "The Art of Drummimg".  An exploration of modern rock/pop drumming from the '50's omwards.  You really get an appreciation of the drums as an instrument, and the skills of those playing them.                                                                                                                                                                                             
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 26 August, 2022, 10:04:55 pm
The final episode of "The Jewel In The Crown", the slaughter of partition.  Superb TV, and probably the closest a lot of people would have got to that part of history. Can't remember it at school, though I dropped history at 14.


I've got a boxed set of Dalrymple's "Company Quartet" on the "To Be Read" pile...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rogerzilla on 26 August, 2022, 10:14:52 pm
Was it The Two Ronnies that did The Jewel In India's Passage?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 30 August, 2022, 10:45:12 pm
Tonights entertainment was the first episode of "Anna Karenina".  A BBC adaptation from 1978.   My god!  The stick on whiskers !


I've an unread copy of the book somewhere.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 31 August, 2022, 10:03:28 pm
https://www.arte.tv/en/videos/083277-001-A/a-mediterranean-journey/


A series of short and probably superficial portraits of some of the Eastern Mediterranean countries.  The first one is Lebanon & has a section on a cycling advocacy group.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 31 August, 2022, 10:06:19 pm
I went to Lebanon in the 90s. I've never seen anywhere so shot to pieces. Buildings with rounded corners etc.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 31 August, 2022, 10:30:00 pm
Yes, that's mentioned in the programme.  I read  "Pity The Nation" by Robert Fisk ages ago.  Not a lucky country.   :(
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 01 September, 2022, 12:16:36 am
Friends of mine have a lovely apartment in Beirut. Very quiet neighbours though owing to the fact that shells passed through the apartments either side. Apparently the neighbours  weren’t home though.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 01 September, 2022, 12:21:14 am
Tonights entertainment was the first episode of "Anna Karenina".  A BBC adaptation from 1978.   My god!  The stick on whiskers !


I've an unread copy of the book somewhere.


Only connect...


Eric Porter plays Karenin in "Anna Karenina" and also played Count Bronowsky in "The Jewel In The Crown".
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ScumOfTheRoad on 03 September, 2022, 06:49:43 am
https://www.bbc.co.uk/events/e69z3d

Prom 58: Public Service Broadcasting – This New Noise
20:00 Tue 30 Aug 2022 Royal Albert Hall
Retro-futurist rockers Public Service Broadcasting perform This New Noise: a joyously eclectic, album-length celebration of 100 years of BBC Radio, told with visuals, soundscapes and a little bit of help from the BBC Symphony Orchestra.

Just fantastic. This will appeal to many YACF types. Rethian plummy voices and archive footage.
I cannot see it on iPlayer but it must come on there soon.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 04 September, 2022, 07:24:38 pm
We’ve just finished watching a Walter Presents offering, “Hide and Seek” a police procedural from Ukraine. Excellent.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 05 September, 2022, 06:16:46 pm
"Rings of Power" and it it's looking very very good. Loved the first 2 episodes.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 05 September, 2022, 08:17:48 pm
Richard Osman's House of Games returns for a new series, after Too Much Sport IMHO.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Basil on 05 September, 2022, 08:54:06 pm
Richard Osman's House of Games returns for a new series, after Too Much Sport IMHO.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 07 September, 2022, 07:48:57 pm
How To with John Wilson.

BBC iplayer.

Absolutely wonderful. The Wine episode is fantastic
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 15 September, 2022, 12:35:59 am
Richard Osman's House of Games returns for a new series, after Too Much Sport IMHO.

 :thumbsup:
Bloody wasn't on on Tuesday,because of Too Much Sport. Tonight's edition was Tuesday's, a day late. Presumably we'll either get two on one day later this week or they'll push Friday's to Saturday.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 15 September, 2022, 08:33:20 am
We watched the first of the new Blue Planets. My goodness, the anthropomorphism and tear-jerking music is utterly appalling.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 15 September, 2022, 01:32:25 pm
I think I may be a bit late to the party, but Mrs Legs was away in Italy last night so, having weighed up the alternative options of doing some calcs for work, or a Zwift session, I settled on an evening on the sofa in my pyjamas with a bottle of Hobgoblin, some wasabi peanuts and The Capture (Series 1 Episode 1, obvs).  I think I made the right choice.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 20 September, 2022, 08:50:24 am
The Capture

Not-quite-normal police procedural. Took until about the 3 episode to decide what was actually going on.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 20 September, 2022, 11:56:18 am
For those in search of undemanding rubbish to fall asleep to (well, it's what my wife does), the new series of The Brokenwood Mysteries starts nex Monday on Drama.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Pingu on 23 September, 2022, 09:23:49 pm
First episode of Don't Hug Me I'm Scared. Two characters named for myself and Mrs P. That's a bit weird.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 26 September, 2022, 11:15:00 pm
The Capture Season 2.  On iplayer.  Well done & gripping, I thought. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 27 September, 2022, 08:13:29 am
We started watching Crossfire because previewers said it was interesting. We watched episode 1. The night before last we watched what was labelled as episode two. Last night we started watching episode three. It was exactly the same as episode two. So we realised we had missed out the middle episode and not noticed. It was that good.

We did this so you don’t have to.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 27 September, 2022, 02:10:04 pm
I watched the first episode, but didn't get the urge to go back for more...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 28 September, 2022, 02:56:39 pm
We started watching Crossfire because previewers said it was interesting. We watched episode 1. The night before last we watched what was labelled as episode two. Last night we started watching episode three. It was exactly the same as episode two. So we realised we had missed out the middle episode and not noticed. It was that good.

We did this so you don’t have to.

I caught the last half hour of that. It was somewhat turgid, Could you tell me how the ex copper came to be in the possession of an ancient shotgun and ammo during the siege please. I really cant be arsed to watch all the first episode to find out.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 28 September, 2022, 09:41:21 pm
Hooray, new Taskmaster starts tomorrow on C4!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 28 September, 2022, 11:11:47 pm
We started watching Crossfire because previewers said it was interesting. We watched episode 1. The night before last we watched what was labelled as episode two. Last night we started watching episode three. It was exactly the same as episode two. So we realised we had missed out the middle episode and not noticed. It was that good.

We did this so you don’t have to.

I caught the last half hour of that. It was somewhat turgid, Could you tell me how the ex copper came to be in the possession of an ancient shotgun and ammo during the siege please. I really cant be arsed to watch all the first episode to find out.

A hotel manager had two shotguns in in his office to shoot rabbits. They were in some kind of cabinet, but I couldn’t tell you what kind. Nor what colour the rabbits were.

I wasn’t really that bothered about how the copper’s husband came to have a serious back injury. I assumed he had been shot in episode two. Whereas a review revealed that he had fallen off a balcony whilst trying not to be shot. In episode two.

I didn’t really get how two young brothers, one of whom was shot dead, could keep a hotel complex that big at bay. Maybe I overthought it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 29 September, 2022, 06:49:12 am
Taskmaster.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 September, 2022, 11:33:15 am
If you like anime and cyberpunk, give Cyberpunk: Edgerunners a go.

Action, dark and bloody. Borrows heavily from William Gibson.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 29 September, 2022, 11:05:37 pm
The Boys, S3 on Prime. 

i love how in some ways they have dodged some really grim stuff from the comic; then at other times they have upped the ante.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 02 October, 2022, 10:55:37 am
Traumazone

Appears on iplayer in a fortnight. 9 part series by Adam Curtis on Russia during the period that spanned the fall of the Soviet Union. Cue loads of utterly bonkers archive footage from the cutting room floor.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 02 October, 2022, 04:22:11 pm
Ooh thanks for that.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 27 October, 2022, 11:50:49 pm
The Peripheral (Prime), 2 episodes so far & pretty good.  Based on a William Gibson novel.  Jonathan Nolan is one of the exec prods.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Socks on 03 November, 2022, 07:47:56 pm
Rugby League World cup -  England vs Australia, fantastic game so far and Australia have an early lead.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 04 November, 2022, 11:52:28 pm
Frankie Boyle's New World Order.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 22 November, 2022, 08:18:10 pm
David Baddiel’s “Jews Don’t Count”.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: geoff on 29 November, 2022, 02:07:12 pm
SAS Rogue Heroes.. Ben MacIntyre's SAS origin tales given the rock roll treatment.

6 Eps passed oh too swiftly. Brutal, touching and sad. WTF to watch now?

Sent from my STF-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 29 November, 2022, 03:53:10 pm
Watched Kleo on Netflix, 2 episodes to go. This is really, really good - funny and in the same vein as Killing Eve.

Not sure if it is on the UK Netflix (it's a German series) but well worth watching if you can.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 29 November, 2022, 06:11:02 pm
I want to watch Armando Ianucci's Avenue 5 but I don't have DingoVision  >:(
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 29 November, 2022, 06:46:02 pm
Not tonight but the third series of the Beeb’s adaptation of “His Dark Materials” starts on December 18th.  Wretched USAnians are getting it the thick end of a fortnight earlier  >:(
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: pcolbeck on 30 November, 2022, 11:33:39 am
SAS Rogue Heroes.. Ben MacIntyre's SAS origin tales given the rock roll treatment.

6 Eps passed oh too swiftly. Brutal, touching and sad. WTF to watch now?

That was good. Pretty true to life for a TV series but I'm not sure why they needed to invent the French spy love interest for Stirling, didn't really add anything.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Wowbagger on 02 December, 2022, 08:26:33 pm
This evening I watched a programme about orgasms. It was a bit of an anticlimax.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 05 December, 2022, 09:42:03 am
Not tonight, but it'll be on iPlayer - both the first series (the one on scaffolding was the best!) and this - "How To" with John Wilson, BBC2 Fridays
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 05 December, 2022, 12:53:44 pm
New Four Deaf Yorkshiremen: https://www.bslzone.co.uk/watch/four-deaf-yorkshiremen-and-a-wedding

Sadly the best gag comes at about 2 minutes in, and it's downhill from there.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 05 December, 2022, 01:41:16 pm
This evening I watched a programme about orgasms. It was a bit of an anticlimax.

Just didn’t hit the spot?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Basil on 05 December, 2022, 02:19:06 pm
This evening I watched a programme about orgasms. It was a bit of an anticlimax.

Is that the one I saw a clip of on twitter? 

Test woman's blood.
Send woman off for a wank.
Test woman's blood again.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 15 December, 2022, 01:04:13 pm
Premature, given the thread title, but I wouldn't want any fans to miss Detectorists on Boxing Day, 9pm BBC 2. A one-off Christmas special, not the start of a new series, sadly,
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 15 December, 2022, 01:47:51 pm
His Dark Materials starts again this Sunday @ 19:00. And Happy Valley 3 on New Years Day.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: coops456 on 21 December, 2022, 03:47:36 pm
I am v excited about the final series of Happy Valley. The first two are currently on BBC iPlayer and I highly recommend a wee binge. Top writing (Sally Wainwright, duh) and acting (Sarah Lancashire, James Norton et al).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 21 December, 2022, 06:12:04 pm
His Dark Materials starts again this Sunday @ 19:00. And Happy Valley 3 on New Years Day.

All the former are available on iPlayer too.  Binge binge.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 21 December, 2022, 06:23:04 pm
There should be an episode of The Cleaner containing Greg Davies on at some point in the festivities too.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 23 December, 2022, 02:33:58 am
SAS Rogue Heroes.. Ben MacIntyre's SAS origin tales given the rock roll treatment.

6 Eps passed oh too swiftly. Brutal, touching and sad. WTF to watch now?

Sent from my STF-L09 using Tapatalk

I tried really hard to like this, but found it way over the top, with dodgy colour corrections( and very poor FX).
Also Dominic West will always be Jim McNulty.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 23 December, 2022, 06:56:01 am
I didn’t like it much either.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 23 December, 2022, 08:18:01 am
Anyone watched the Traitors?

It's been touted as excellent
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rogerzilla on 23 December, 2022, 09:52:55 am
I binge watched His Dark Materials.  They did pretty well with the special effects, although there was a fair bit of padding to get some action sequences in.  The books are pretty flawed in plot terms so I can't blame the adaptation, but the revelation that

(click to show/hide)

is dropped in pretty abruptly to give the required melancholy ending.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 24 December, 2022, 07:31:43 pm
There should be an episode of The Cleaner containing Greg Davies on at some point in the festivities too.
And Lo! it was good.

(Perhaps not the best one they've done ... but very good as Xmas specials go!)
Detectorists is next on the schedule...
Title: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 24 December, 2022, 08:29:22 pm
Anyone watched the Traitors?

It's been touted as excellent

My son is watching it as I type. I have no idea what is going on. It seems to be mainly people shouting at each other. And/or crying. With dramatic music.

One of the contestants just said “I literally had my arse on the table”. What he meant (I think) was that he was being accused of being a traitor. He didn’t literally have his arse on the table.

I’m struggling to discern the entertainment value in this. But that could just be me.


ETA: he’s just explained it to me. My initial assessment was right - it’s basically people shouting at each other and crying and accusing each other of being traitors. It could have been created by Jean-Paul Sartre. I think it might actually be brilliant.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Basil on 25 December, 2022, 12:47:26 am
Mrs B tried one ep.  Her verdict was over expectant people getting over emotional about nothing and crying.  Totally, totally irrelevant and irritating.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: robgul on 25 December, 2022, 07:45:51 am
I didn't see the Christmas Carole last night (no dustbin lid TV here) but based on the reviews I shall be asking to watch it on catch-up at my BiL's today after lunch.

What we did was Bob & Paul (and of course Ted) doing a bit of fishing - excellent as usual.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 25 December, 2022, 09:24:11 am
Mrs B tried one ep.  Her verdict was over expectant people getting over emotional about nothing and crying.  Totally, totally irrelevant and irritating.
Anyone watched the Traitors?

It's been touted as excellent

My son is watching it as I type. I have no idea what is going on. It seems to be mainly people shouting at each other. And/or crying. With dramatic music.

One of the contestants just said “I literally had my arse on the table”. What he meant (I think) was that he was being accused of being a traitor. He didn’t literally have his arse on the table.

I’m struggling to discern the entertainment value in this. But that could just be me.


ETA: he’s just explained it to me. My initial assessment was right - it’s basically people shouting at each other and crying and accusing each other of being traitors. It could have been created by Jean-Paul Sartre. I think it might actually be brilliant.

Thankyou, both.

As an inchoate curmudgeon, its probably best that I avoid this, unless of course I wish to confirm my suspicion that everyone is a cunt including, naturally, me.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: TheLurker on 25 December, 2022, 09:35:36 am
Last night rather than tonight. BBC4. Chap rescuing pipe organs from deconsecrated churches and disused chapels. By turns informative, saddening and (slightly) uplifiting.  I expect it'll be on Auntie's intarweb TV offering for a while yet.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 28 December, 2022, 11:27:21 pm
I bin watching the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures, featuring Dame Sue Black on forensics.  Interesting stuff.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 29 December, 2022, 07:18:10 am
Started watching Severance on Apple tv (7 day free trial...Will have to be a binge watch)

But I'd already had too much food and wine and went to bed about 10 minutes later.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 04 January, 2023, 10:15:56 pm
For the benefit of anyone who hasn't already pirated[1] Our Flag Means Death, you can now get your silly low-budget historical comedy with lashings and lashings of unexpected queer representation on that BBC that they have now:  https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0dk8v81


[1] Ba-dum, and indeed, tish.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 05 January, 2023, 01:02:39 am
I binge watched His Dark Materials.  They did pretty well with the special effects, although there was a fair bit of padding to get some action sequences in.  The books are pretty flawed in plot terms so I can't blame the adaptation, but the revelation that

(click to show/hide)

is dropped in pretty abruptly to give the required melancholy ending.

I'm surprised they didn't change the ending, tbh.

Also, an unexpected example of sign language done properly in mainstream drama.  They used a Deaf actor and the camera angles mean you can follow the dialogue and everything (we'll overlook that they don't use some impenetrable parallel-universe dialect of BSL, as the series is operating under the SG1 rules[1] of linguistics).


[1] 'Everyone speaks English regardless of planet and species, except where necessary for the plot.'
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 January, 2023, 10:18:59 am
I binge watched His Dark Materials.  They did pretty well with the special effects, although there was a fair bit of padding to get some action sequences in.  The books are pretty flawed in plot terms so I can't blame the adaptation, but the revelation that

(click to show/hide)

is dropped in pretty abruptly to give the required melancholy ending.

I'm surprised they didn't change the ending, tbh.

Also, an unexpected example of sign language done properly in mainstream drama.  They used a Deaf actor and the camera angles mean you can follow the dialogue and everything (we'll overlook that they don't use some impenetrable parallel-universe dialect of BSL, as the series is operating under the SG1 rules[1] of linguistics).


[1] 'Everyone speaks English regardless of planet and species, except where necessary for the plot.'

Later seasons of Silent Witness have a BSL-using deaf recurring character.

Some of the 'conversations' with her are annoying; people not facing her during conversation, and using very minimal BSL.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Flite on 05 January, 2023, 11:17:56 am
Reminded by watching "Digging for Britain" on Sunday, for the next few days we will be watching Time Team, series 1.
Then if I can find them, all episodes from the following 20 years.
They all look so young!
Geophys in it's early days, in fact computing in it's early days for many of us.

Mostly despair of current TV programmes, only programmes we watched over Xmas/New Year were the Royal Institute Lectures.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 05 January, 2023, 03:15:54 pm
A bit of an emotional roller coaster repeat of last night. Catching up whist my wifes away, an episode of "Ambulance", followed by one of Channel 4's "Big Boys", which is great fun.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 January, 2023, 09:48:59 am
The Rig

This is really a Dr Who plot without Dr Who.

Ridiculous daft tosh, but enjoyable for the decent acting and atmospheric set.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 12 January, 2023, 10:45:59 am
I binge watched His Dark Materials.  They did pretty well with the special effects, although there was a fair bit of padding to get some action sequences in.  The books are pretty flawed in plot terms so I can't blame the adaptation, but the revelation that

(click to show/hide)

is dropped in pretty abruptly to give the required melancholy ending.

(click to show/hide)

I'm half-watching just so we can get it finished.  It's all gone a bit weird.  I think I was more-or-less understanding most of the first two series, but I'd evidently forgotten a lot of what was going on.  It's not really particularly gripping because you can be sure there's a deus ex machina to dig them out of any plot hole.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: L CC on 12 January, 2023, 10:48:38 am
The Rig

This is really a Dr Who plot without Dr Who.

Ridiculous daft tosh, but enjoyable for the decent acting and atmospheric set.

Heh.
I'm 'saving' a bunch of telly for when I'm off work post-op.

Quote from: colleague
Don't bother with The Rig. It's Shit.

If anyone has any recommendations for EASY binge watching while I'm in pain and doing rehab, let me know. We have streaming but no BBC.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 12 January, 2023, 06:25:13 pm
Which streaming do you have?

We’re mostly Prime but currently enjoying Berlin Station on Netflix (we are both very familiar with Berlin so it’s great to spot the sights).

We thought The Man in the High Castle on Prime was excellent.

I liked Motherland Fort Salem on Prime although I think it is YA rather than oldie like me.

On Netflix we like Kleo but it might not be on UK Netflix.

Channel 4 streaming has The West Wing - I watched the whole thing over a year and it was brilliant.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: nicknack on 12 January, 2023, 06:36:42 pm
'Undone' on Prime is brill. Binge watched season 2 last night.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 January, 2023, 10:04:43 pm
The Rig

This is really a Dr Who plot without Dr Who.

Ridiculous daft tosh, but enjoyable for the decent acting and atmospheric set.

Heh.
I'm 'saving' a bunch of telly for when I'm off work post-op.

Quote from: colleague
Don't bother with The Rig. It's Shit.

If anyone has any recommendations for EASY binge watching while I'm in pain and doing rehab, let me know. We have streaming but no BBC.
Silent witness
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 12 January, 2023, 10:40:33 pm
I don't think I've seen Witless Silence since Clarissa left.  I can't imagine the lack of snark has improved it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 13 January, 2023, 06:00:38 am
It’s got a bit too gloomy for me. They have a black actor and a Jewish character so it’s ticking additional diversity boxes now the disabled character is gone.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 13 January, 2023, 06:08:59 am
Accidentally watched a bit of traitors.

As described above. Can't be arsed.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 13 January, 2023, 07:58:22 am
I don't think I've seen Witless Silence since Clarissa left.  I can't imagine the lack of snark has improved it.
We're up to Series 16 in the Great Silent Witness Watch-Through.  Am going to miss Harry when he departs!

For undemanding watching on catch-up, how about Death In Paradise?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 January, 2023, 11:04:49 am
I don't think I've seen Witless Silence since Clarissa left.  I can't imagine the lack of snark has improved it.

She was the best character in the whole series.

Observed by my partner "Was it intentional that the disabled character is the only character who has a functioning relationship?"
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 13 January, 2023, 12:34:19 pm
I think we might try the first of the new Ken Burns' "The US and the Holocaust". 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: L CC on 13 January, 2023, 01:15:45 pm
Which streaming do you have?

Netflix, Prime and Disney. ALL THE STREAMS.

(This will possibly cease if/when they & Spotify tighten up on family accounts)

Quote
I liked Motherland Fort Salem on Prime although I think it is YA rather than oldie like me.

YA works for me. I'm looking for tosh which requires no intellectual engagement.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 13 January, 2023, 09:07:34 pm
I think we might try the first of the new Ken Burns' "The US and the Holocaust".


I watched the first episode last night.  Grim , and relevant.  The same language is still being used today about refugees & "other" people. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 14 January, 2023, 01:37:06 pm
I think we might try the first of the new Ken Burns' "The US and the Holocaust".


I watched the first episode last night.  Grim , and relevant.  The same language is still being used today about refugees & "other" people.
Yup. And I learned quite a lot.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 14 January, 2023, 02:11:56 pm
I think we might try the first of the new Ken Burns' "The US and the Holocaust".


I watched the first episode last night.  Grim , and relevant.  The same language is still being used today about refugees & "other" people.
Yup. And I learned quite a lot.


https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2022/sep/19/ken-burns-interview-holocaust-docuseries
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 17 January, 2023, 10:14:02 pm
For the benefit of anyone who hasn't already pirated[1] Our Flag Means Death, you can now get your silly low-budget historical comedy with lashings and lashings of unexpected queer representation on that BBC that they have now:  https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0dk8v81


[1] Ba-dum, and indeed, tish.

Guybrush Threepwood, much?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 17 January, 2023, 10:22:28 pm
For the benefit of anyone who hasn't already pirated[1] Our Flag Means Death, you can now get your silly low-budget historical comedy with lashings and lashings of unexpected queer representation on that BBC that they have now:  https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0dk8v81


[1] Ba-dum, and indeed, tish.

Guybrush Threepwood, much?

Heh, now you mention it...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 18 January, 2023, 06:39:07 pm
Another not so much entertainment as information, Indian; The Modi Question. Compare with Israel and the Palestinians, or Myanmar and the Rohingya. Or maybe the Nazis and the Jews, a common enemy.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 19 January, 2023, 05:43:22 pm
Another not so much entertainment as information, Indian; The Modi Question. Compare with Israel and the Palestinians, or Myanmar and the Rohingya. Or maybe the Nazis and the Jews, a common enemy.


I've not watched this yet.  The world is depressing enough.  https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/1/19/india-slams-bbc-film-on-role-of-indias-modi-in-gujarat-riots
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: woollypigs on 19 January, 2023, 06:31:17 pm
You don't want to follow this fella then https://twitter.com/cjwerleman and https://www.youtube.com/TheCJWerlemanShow

His coverage what is happening to Muslims around the world and especially India, is a grim read.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 20 January, 2023, 08:25:20 pm
I think we might try the first of the new Ken Burns' "The US and the Holocaust".


I watched the first episode last night.  Grim , and relevant.  The same language is still being used today about refugees & "other" people.

And tonight we watched the second. Unmissable and horrific.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: yoav on 21 January, 2023, 09:52:04 pm
I’ve just binge watched all three episodes.
Cruella Braverman should be tied to a chair and forced to watch it.
Though she probably still won’t learn anything from it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 22 January, 2023, 08:20:54 pm
Fight the Power - How Hip-Hop Changed the World. An excellent documentary putting hip-hop into cultural context.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: StuAff on 22 January, 2023, 08:32:10 pm
Fight the Power - How Hip-Hop Changed the World. An excellent documentary putting hip-hop into cultural context.
Haven't watched it yet, but looking forward to it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 January, 2023, 09:36:59 am
I’ve just binge watched all three episodes.
Cruella Braverman should be tied to a chair and forced to watch it.
Though she probably still won’t learn anything from it.

Worse, she probably WOULD learn from it.

Telling some people to study the methods of the nazis (and people who behave like them), is counter productive.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 27 January, 2023, 08:46:21 am
"Bodies"

Medical drama, centering on the 'doctors protect doctors' culture.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 27 January, 2023, 11:46:13 am
We also just watched the BBC documentary on Modi, and his apparent encouragement of, and possible complicity in, Hindu violence against Muslims. Good televison, but rather depressing.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rogerzilla on 28 January, 2023, 12:16:06 pm
I watched all of The Rings Of Power this week.  The story is bobbins but it looks absolutely fantastic.  It has all the feel of the Peter Jackson films*.

*not The Hobbit, which was shit
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 31 January, 2023, 10:57:38 pm
Currently midway through a cheeky download of "War & Peace"  https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3910804/reviews?ref_=tt_urv   


Rather good.  Is there a book ?   
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Flite on 01 February, 2023, 08:36:01 am
Playing catchup with Robson Green's Weekend Escapes - series about NE England and Yorkshire.
Excellent scenery and plenty of food. (plus celebs I've never heard of).
Roads you can bike up and down if you do some of Andy or Deans events.....
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 01 February, 2023, 09:30:24 pm
Enjoyed Severance, occasionally a bit too much style over substance but the style was well done. Now rebadged my department as macro-data refiners. I'm sure it'll turn out to be something innocent. Fine cliffhanger. Better make another series (thanks Netflix for 1899). Is it me, or is Christopher Walken always terrifying, and more so when he's not even trying?

Also loved Slow Horses, not much of a spy fan normally, but Jackson Lamb is inspirational. Plus what I've learned about management from Jackson Lamb means I don't need to do that MBA now.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 01 February, 2023, 10:04:20 pm
Also loved Slow Horses, not much of a spy fan normally, but Jackson Lamb is inspirational. Plus what I've learned about management from Jackson Lamb means I don't need to do that MBA now.

Seconded.  The problem with spy stories is that, no matter how compelling the characters, they inevitably deteriorate into a complex web of secrets, lies and double-crossings.  As a computer programmer I deal with far too much of that sort of thing already.

One series was excellent.  Two was starting to drag, and it definitely doesn't need a third.

Kudos for an unexpected banger of a theme tune (I looked it up, the reason it sounds so much like Mick Jagger is because it's actually Mick Jagger).  Best one since Okkupert.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 01 February, 2023, 10:11:22 pm
Yes, the second series, while very good, wasn't quite up to that of the first. They're already slipping into the Jackson having a heart of gold under all that scorn and no, he's a monster, a splendid monster, and he's our kind of monster. By series six he'll be using Powerpoint to deliver DEI training and encouraging his team to include their preferred pronouns in their email signatures.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 02 February, 2023, 06:41:08 am
Enjoyed Severance, occasionally a bit too much style over substance but the style was well done.

I was recommended this by a friend. I managed about 8 minutes before I decided that I just couldn't be bothered. That is not unusual for me. I think I just get fed up of Americans.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 03 February, 2023, 03:16:01 pm
The problem with spy stories is that, no matter how compelling the characters, they inevitably deteriorate into a complex web of secrets, lies and double-crossings.  As a computer programmer I deal with far too much of that sort of thing already.

PML

Too, too true.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 04 February, 2023, 06:48:31 pm
Catching up with some older recordings, Tokyo Vice a dramatised memoirs of an American journalist working on a Tokyo newspaper. Really enjoying it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 04 February, 2023, 07:41:55 pm
Jojo Rabbit is on C4 at 9pm.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jakob on 06 February, 2023, 03:05:55 am
Catching up with some older recordings, Tokyo Vice a dramatised memoirs of an American journalist working on a Tokyo newspaper. Really enjoying it.

Yeah,this was really good. Looking forward to season 2, except I managed to spoil a lot of it by reading his book.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 10 February, 2023, 11:14:46 pm
At the end of a week that could have been better, got home from my post-Scouts supermarket run to find The Long Good Friday is on Film 4. That's better.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 11 February, 2023, 09:01:17 pm
Bob Mortimer was on Would I Lie to You last night.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Snakehips on 11 February, 2023, 09:15:41 pm
Television tonight: what's worth watching?
The square root of bugger all.
What's new?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 15 February, 2023, 10:58:50 pm
Edge of Darkness is getting a  re run on BBC4. The proper one, the mini series with Bob Peck, Joanne Whalley and Joe Don. Baker.

First screened in1985, still worth every minute.

<Fires up get_iplayer>
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 16 February, 2023, 10:38:40 am
Edge of Darkness is getting a  re run on BBC4. The proper one, the mini series with Bob Peck, Joanne Whalley and Joe Don. Baker.

First screened in1985, still worth every minute.

<Fires up get_iplayer>

That was re-run a few years ago too. My wife and I were discussing it recently having watched an "Abandoned Engineering" about Chernobyl and Pripyat, and we agreed it had aged very well.  I'm not sure it'll stand a third watching though, excellent though Peck and Baker were in it.

ETA: But it seems we're going to give it a go :-)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 16 February, 2023, 10:47:27 am
Being a FOREIGN Miss von Brandenburg had never heard of it.  I lent her the DVDs.

“Wow!” she said.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 16 February, 2023, 10:57:23 am
Do you have any DVD's of Monkey Dust to amuse her with?  8)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 17 February, 2023, 09:00:37 pm
Watched the Chris Packham “Inside Our Autistic Minds” thing the other night. Didn’t intend to but it came on and I was gripped from beginning to end. Fascinating, and deeply moving. And hugely educational in how it conveys what it means to be autistic. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 17 February, 2023, 09:03:41 pm
Quite enjoying the TV series version of What We Do In The Shadows – the first episode was a bit meh, but it soon finds its feet. Or wings. Vulval topiary. Bless.

Servant, some M. Nocturnal Salamanagabang stuff, marginally spookertaining with some bonus Philadephia location spotting (probably less fun if you've not spent a lot of time in Philly). Slightly spoiled by the two protagonists being the sort of annoying smug twats you want to see chewed up by hungry Hell hounds.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 18 February, 2023, 05:25:49 pm
Round here?  Nothing!

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52696792558_48846e2264_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ohCQuW)
What’s on telly tonight? (https://flic.kr/p/2ohCQuW) by Mr Larrington (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mr_larrington/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 20 February, 2023, 12:20:32 pm
Edge of Darkness is getting a  re run on BBC4. The proper one, the mini series with Bob Peck, Joanne Whalley and Joe Don. Baker.

First screened in1985, still worth every minute.

<Fires up get_iplayer>

Thanks for this recommendation.  I'd never heard of it before but am enjoying it.  Couldn't help smirking when Craven visits Terry Shields (a very young-looking Tim McInnerney), who, when asked "Did she call you Tel?" replies "She called me Darling!"

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Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 20 February, 2023, 01:46:41 pm
"grace's amazing machines"

Been staying with one grandson, who loves vehicles. So I'm roped into watching Grace's amazing machines.

It is great. Presenter exploding with enthusiasm.

A bit of googling reveals that she presents several programs on EVs. Might have to have a watch.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 20 February, 2023, 02:55:35 pm
TV's Guy Martin's new series on C4 on Sunday nights is worth a look if you like TV's Guy Martin, electricity production and distribution or, in the case of last night’s episode, blonde Scandiwegian-looking lady helichopter pilots.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: felstedrider on 20 February, 2023, 02:58:24 pm
TV's Guy Martin's new series on C4 on Sunday nights is worth a look if you like TV's Guy Martin, electricity production and distribution or, in the case of last night’s episode, blonde Scandiwegian-looking lady helichopter pilots.

Technically, I should watch that.   I note that no-one in the office knew about it, though.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Socks on 04 March, 2023, 07:29:34 pm
Ant & Dec's Saturday night takeaway.  Easy to dismiss as cheesy populist stuff, however you have to have a heart of stone not be moved by the 'place on the plane' segment.  (It's on ITV i-player)

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Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 27 March, 2023, 08:27:31 pm
Cue the swirly music - Succession S4 starts tonight.

And (yet) another Taskmaster series starts on Thursday.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 07 April, 2023, 10:51:40 am
“Beechgrove” on BBC2 @ 7:30.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andrewc on 07 April, 2023, 11:07:17 pm
As it's Easter let's have some passion...    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3SrPkdRqSU


https://twitter.com/jjhutchings/status/1644284440296693760



"Imagine a world where the BBC is brave enough to broadcast a full televised performance of St Matthew Passion on Good Friday.
It happened in 1994 - staging by Jonathan Miller, period instruments, Rufus Müller as evangelist, directed by Paul Goodwin."
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 07 April, 2023, 11:18:47 pm
Four in a Bed.

After several days we finally found the episode our house is in.  ;D
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 17 April, 2023, 08:41:14 am
Carole King and Her Songs at the BBC (https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m001l5ch/carole-king-and-her-songs-at-the-bbc) on Saturday night was a treat.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 18 April, 2023, 07:03:57 pm
BBC iPlayer is telling me that Guilt will be back for a 3rd and final series soon.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 18 April, 2023, 07:28:54 pm
BBC iPlayer is telling me that Guilt will be back for a 3rd and final series soon.

That passed us by, but looks good.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 25 April, 2023, 06:41:25 pm
BBC iPlayer is telling me that Guilt will be back for a 3rd and final series soon.

Looks like this starts tonight according to iPlayer.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 25 April, 2023, 08:11:02 pm
BBC iPlayer is telling me that Guilt will be back for a 3rd and final series soon.

Looks like this starts tonight according to iPlayer.

Thursday here.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 25 April, 2023, 08:31:59 pm
Yes, I realised when I set the PVR to record it was on BBC Scotland channel.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 30 April, 2023, 10:30:14 am
A heads-up that this years Giro is on Freeview, DMAX, starting on Saturday 6th. Also that you PVR may not pick up recording clashes (at least my Manhattan didn’t, Humax may be better at it).

ETA Also, you can watch catch-up (of the DMAX highlights) on Discovery+ for free.

ETTA No, you can’t. Hey ho, subscription paid.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 30 April, 2023, 10:45:18 am
June will see a TdF documentary series on netflix
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 01 May, 2023, 06:55:59 pm
Ever late to the party, Mrs Legs and I have been watching Happy Valley.  Just nearing the end of Series 1 now.  Enjoying it very much!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 01 May, 2023, 07:01:19 pm
Ever late to the party, Mrs Legs and I have been watching Happy Valley.  Just nearing the end of Series 1 now.  Enjoying it very much!

We found 1 & 2 excellent. 3 got a bit melodramatic.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 02 May, 2023, 09:23:09 am
Magpie Murders

Very confusing initially, then settles into being rather fun. A bit Agatha Christie, with time-hopping and some messing with the fourth wall via a literary character.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 02 May, 2023, 01:33:25 pm
Ever late to the party, Mrs Legs and I have been watching Happy Valley.  Just nearing the end of Series 1 now.  Enjoying it very much!
I’ve also started watching it but am finding it a little distressing and don’t know whether to continue. I watched to the end of episode 3, series 1.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: sam on 04 May, 2023, 07:53:57 am
Only on tonight if you can track it down somewhere. I'd better not tell you where I watched it for free, or you may become an accessory after the fact.

Post-apocalyptic series The Last of Us. The third episode (https://youtu.be/xfxEFWVB09Q) is the best TV I've seen in, well, a long long time.

(https://i.imgur.com/E6BgmxD.jpg) (https://youtu.be/kDRVwmflPmc)

"Who the hell is Linda Ronstadt (https://www.eurogamer.net/linda-ronstadt-wont-profit-from-the-last-of-us-despite-song-revival)?"
- some Generation Z person working at Spotify, (https://newsroom.spotify.com/2023-03-15/last-of-us-season-1-soundtrack-music-streams-linda-ronstadt-depeche-mode/) I imagine

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 04 May, 2023, 05:04:24 pm
Cue the swirly music - Succession S4 starts tonight.

It's been amazing so far. Ken and Rom's behaviour is all too painfully believable.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 08 May, 2023, 07:17:34 pm
Magpie Murders

Very confusing initially, then settles into being rather fun. A bit Agatha Christie, with time-hopping and some messing with the fourth wall via a literary character.

We started this last night. I think without Lesley Manville it would have failed, but she held it together.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 May, 2023, 11:49:54 pm
I bin watching Revolutions with the presenter that Prof B Cox calls “Jimmy Alka Seltzer”.  It's been lurking on the Humax box since the summer of 2019 and thus not available on iPlayer chiz but does feature a squealing Prof A Roberts on a dog sled, clearly having the time of her life.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 15 May, 2023, 10:06:36 am
Just started 10 Pound Poms

One episode so far. Mixed feelings; it isn't always comfortable viewing. Portrayal of Australian attitudes feels 'right' to me; my parents, with myself and my brother, emigrated to Oz at the end of the 10 pound poms era (although we were posh; flew out on sponsored passage, paid for by Dad's employers). My cousins came with their parents by sea on a sponsored passage.

Comments in spoilers
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Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: sam on 26 May, 2023, 10:15:56 am
The Diplomat. After watching Keri Russell in The Americans (https://youtu.be/Uv9xvPUMo6E), thought I'd give it a shot. I also like Rufus Sewell as "the wife".

(https://i.imgur.com/nYvJvWy.jpg) (https://youtu.be/YZVBJxZEMO8)

It amuses me that the actor playing the PM also played him in Black Mirror/The National Anthem. (https://youtu.be/UNvLyeHilN4)

Brought to the small screen by Debora Cahn, writer/producer from The West Wing, which was entertaining and maddening in equal measure.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 27 May, 2023, 08:03:25 pm
Behind the times, but we started watching “Blue Lights”. Brilliantly made. And we followed that up with a Storyville “Chechnya - The Gay Purge”. Chilling b
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Salvatore on 29 May, 2023, 05:28:46 pm
New series of Springwatch starts tonight.

Not that I'd normally watch it, but a BBC "junior researcher" contacted me at the weekend with a request to use a couple of my pictures and videos, and was very keen for me to return the permission form today. Said researcher and form stress that there's no guarantee that they'll be used but I'll be watching just in case anyway.

If you were on the Not The Coronation Camping Weekend you probably saw one of the videos (Apollo watched it several times).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 09 June, 2023, 08:49:57 am
The first episode of the Tour De France Netflix 'documentary' yesterday was pretty good, I thought, given that it's aiming at a broad audience.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Wowbagger on 09 June, 2023, 04:10:52 pm
New series of Springwatch starts tonight.

Not that I'd normally watch it, but a BBC "junior researcher" contacted me at the weekend with a request to use a couple of my pictures and videos, and was very keen for me to return the permission form today. Said researcher and form stress that there's no guarantee that they'll be used but I'll be watching just in case anyway.

If you were on the Not The Coronation Camping Weekend you probably saw one of the videos (Apollo watched it several times).

Was it used?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Woofage on 13 June, 2023, 01:29:13 pm
Behind the times, but we started watching “Blue Lights”. Brilliantly made.

Same here (2 episodes to go). It's much more gritty than other police/crime dramas and the characters are believable. I particularly enjoyed the "Full Moon" episode as that injected a bit of black comedy.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 18 June, 2023, 11:21:09 pm
Moonage Daydream on the flix.  To say that I am a massive Bowie fan is a understatement, so that may be why I am finding it just a random jumble of stock footage.  I'm not even sure the quotes/interviews match the era of the videos/footage.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 19 June, 2023, 04:13:50 pm
Thanks for the r3commendation of Blue Lights, I really enjoyed it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 19 June, 2023, 07:10:11 pm
Ditto re- Blue Lights.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 19 June, 2023, 08:29:54 pm
I knew it had to be good, my wife struggles with accents, but loved watching it. Roll on season 2.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 21 June, 2023, 09:04:18 pm
Greek salad on the prime.
Series following on from the auberge Espanol trilogy
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: ian on 21 June, 2023, 09:45:28 pm
Whatever the latest Mandalorian is.

I may be committing some kind of heresy, but honestly, Star Wars is a bit meh. As an 80s teenager, of course, I loved it back in the day to the point that even Return of the Jedi was OK and I never questioned the poor workmanship on Death Stars that always left a fatal design flaw (they should have taken up a snagging list with the developers). Then they reprised it all with the prequels that honestly I can't remember and I have no wish to remind myself. Han Solo I slept through. Twice. Rogue One was almost OK, I think they wanted to make an adult film (not the sticky kind).

The series are the very epitome of meh. They're watchable, though I don't know why I bother. I think it's the gravity of completeness. Everyone went on about Andor, and really, it was dull and derivative.

In other news, last episode of Dark. It's going to have to do some heavy lifting.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: andyoxon on 23 June, 2023, 06:41:32 pm
Foos at Glasto now...  iplayer

Josh Freese is a bit good...  ;)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 24 June, 2023, 05:35:01 pm
New series of Springwatch starts tonight.

Not that I'd normally watch it, but a BBC "junior researcher" contacted me at the weekend with a request to use a couple of my pictures and videos, and was very keen for me to return the permission form today. Said researcher and form stress that there's no guarantee that they'll be used but I'll be watching just in case anyway.

If you were on the Not The Coronation Camping Weekend you probably saw one of the videos (Apollo watched it several times).
LOVED spring watch 2023!

Did your stuff get in? It was a few weeks ago now, but I do vaguely recall seeing a familiar name ...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 25 June, 2023, 10:37:02 pm
Said researcher and form stress that there's no guarantee that they'll be used but I'll be watching just in case anyway.

Would also be interested in seeing which videos they used. Springwatch was good this year.

Back to my own viewing, I finally began to watch Once upon a time in NI, and found it as hard a watch as I had feared.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 27 June, 2023, 08:00:20 am
Just finished Blue Lights.

Really enjoyed it. Some great characters and acting.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 June, 2023, 11:00:30 am
Started watching 'Limbo', the fictional story of a Syrian refugee sitting on a remote scottish island, waiting for his asylum application to be processed.

Couldn't hack more than 1.5 episodes. The island is un-named (but it is filmed on Uist, and that is obvious). The locals are portrayed as racist, ignorant and dismissive. An old woman on a mobility scooter is scared of talking to the refugees. The local shop is a concrete block bunker. Medical care once a month.

Its so inaccurate, it is insulting. Also stupid. Reality would be that the old woman would talk their ears off. Really nonstop and for hours. Local youth would be fascinated and pleased to see someone new and their age. Shops are few, but they are . . . shops. Medical care, well that is a problem on Uist, but someone wouldn't be left with a cast on their arm for months, they'd be taken up to Stornoway to get it removed (if the local nurse hadn't done it already).

Couldn't hack watching it any longer.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 July, 2023, 10:21:30 am
We've somehow made our way through 'Before we die'.

Flipping heck the dialog and delivery is annoying. The MC can't decide if they are hard-bitten cop or hysterical mother. Superb performance from Patrick Gibson though.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Basil on 14 July, 2023, 08:16:07 pm
I hadn't spotted that the Beeb are rerunning 'The Fast Show'.
BBC 2 at 10 tonight.  Series 1 ep 3.
I'll give it a look, but it's probably going to be another 'Funny then. Not funny now
We'll see.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 16 July, 2023, 06:47:21 pm
^ caught a rerun of smell of reeves and Mortimer.  Still funny.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 16 July, 2023, 07:18:40 pm
Watching Inside Man on the Flix.  Half way through and the jury is out; on one hand there are ome different ideas there, on the other hand there are some :facepalm: moments.  It also feels like they had two ideas for two shows, but combined them into one - not entirely convincingly.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 17 July, 2023, 08:45:26 am
Watching Inside Man on the Flix.  Half way through and the jury is out; on one hand there are ome different ideas there, on the other hand there are some :facepalm: moments.  It also feels like they had two ideas for two shows, but combined them into one - not entirely convincingly.

We are feeling similarly about it. Watched one episode; about 50% is pure farce. Really not sure where they are going with it, and it just doesn't mesh with the tone of the first 5 minutes.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 21 July, 2023, 07:37:04 am
Saturday the 29th, PBS are having a Ken Burns day, showing, AFAICS 3 stand-alone documentatories.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 21 July, 2023, 02:14:04 pm
Finished inside man.  Feel the same about it as I did from the start.
Also agree that the first 5 mins is a totally different mood from the credits or the rest of the story,
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 29 July, 2023, 06:54:07 pm
We’ve started watching “Once upon a time in Northern Ireland”. Extraordinary.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Salvatore on 29 July, 2023, 09:08:50 pm
New series of Springwatch starts tonight.

Not that I'd normally watch it, but a BBC "junior researcher" contacted me at the weekend with a request to use a couple of my pictures and videos, and was very keen for me to return the permission form today. Said researcher and form stress that there's no guarantee that they'll be used but I'll be watching just in case anyway.

If you were on the Not The Coronation Camping Weekend you probably saw one of the videos (Apollo watched it several times).
LOVED spring watch 2023!

Did your stuff get in? It was a few weeks ago now, but I do vaguely recall seeing a familiar name ...

Just a still. Right at the end. Chris Packham fluffed his line.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52938812640_7bc9aa794b_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oE2fCY)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Woofage on 30 July, 2023, 06:50:26 pm
Half way through The Sixth Commandment on the Beeb.

A true story about a really creepy bloke who does some really unpleasant things. Rather chilling, in fact, as the production successfully creates that feeling.

Also recommended from the BBC: We Hunt Together. Brilliant characters in the 2 "baddies" and the 2 detectives after them (worth another series with these two). Proper black comedy stuff.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 31 July, 2023, 07:24:18 pm
I just finished the 6th Commandment after a recommendation from my Mum - I thought it was really good.

Weird that Peter Farquhar's brother was also on Chernobyl as Fomin and was Harry Potter's Dad!

The acting was really good - especially the rage of the niece. Her body was just vibrating with it. Really well done.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 10 August, 2023, 02:20:10 pm
We've just finished Steeltown Murders, which we both felt was very well acted. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 18 August, 2023, 03:31:41 pm
"I, CLAVDIVS" is getting another airing on BBC4.
Also on iPlayer.

Lots of names from BITD who either went on to fame and fortune or faded away.
BRIAN BLESSED, Siân Phillips, Patrick Stewart, Christopher Biggins(!), George Baker and Patsy Byrne to name a few.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: telstarbox on 27 August, 2023, 11:07:51 am
Channel 4 have an interesting and very nuanced documentary about the London Bridge terror attack.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 01 September, 2023, 10:23:58 pm
The Comic Strip Presents...A Fistful of Traveler's Cheques on That's TV (uk) at 2310. Channel 56 on Freeview I think. (I've reordered mine, obvs)

Let's see how well it's aged
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 02 September, 2023, 01:06:16 pm
Watched the Storyville “iHuman” about AI. Somewhat unsettling, especially the academic lecturing that facial recognition can decide if you’re gay or straight, or (potentially) religious or not, his rationale being “it’s my job to inform people”.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 02 September, 2023, 01:18:33 pm
I remember that study.  It turns out that you can guestimate people's reported sexuality from photos on dating websites.  This tells you a lot more about how people behave on dating websites than it does about machine learning.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 02 September, 2023, 01:23:22 pm
I think his point was what happens if, say, Saudi Arabia decides to deploy facial recognition to determine sexual orientation or religious affiliation.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Kim on 02 September, 2023, 01:27:57 pm
I think his point was what happens if, say, Saudi Arabia decides to deploy facial recognition to determine sexual orientation or religious affiliation.

Well, if they're scraping gaydar.com (or whatever the kids are using these days) then the facial recognition is a bit redundant.

If they're using CCTV or passport photos or whatever, they'll suddenly realise that phrenology is still woo.  At which point they'll either abandon the idea, or persecute people at random, whichever is politically expedient.

I hopefully don't need to point out that the Met are already doing this.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 September, 2023, 04:15:19 pm
'The woman in the wall'

Damn fine acting. 2 episodes in and hooked.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Woofage on 04 September, 2023, 04:43:26 pm
^ rather good, isn't it?

I thought the name Ruth Wilson was familiar. She's the grand-daughter of bigamist spy Alexander Wilson (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_Wilson_(English_writer)) and starred in the docudrama about him.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 04 September, 2023, 06:42:56 pm
'The woman in the wall'

Damn fine acting. 2 episodes in and hooked.
Which channel?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Woofage on 04 September, 2023, 07:35:42 pm
BBC iPlayer (we watch everything via streaming now since the aerial was removed).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 05 September, 2023, 06:09:32 am
Thanks! I can watch iPlayer here in Germany but don’t have so much luck with some other channels. God bless NordVPN.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 07 September, 2023, 10:18:19 pm
The Comic Strip Presents...A Fistful of Traveler's Cheques on That's TV (uk) at 2310. Channel 56 on Freeview I think. (I've reordered mine, obvs)

Let's see how well it's aged
Seems it's a regular slot. Good. Last night was The Bullshitters, tonight Strike, a tale of the 1980s miners' strike. Peter Richardson plays Al Pacino playing Arthur Scargill. Obvs.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: De Sisti on 07 September, 2023, 10:23:52 pm
IClaudius on BBC4. I remember watching this series in the mid 70s.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 07 September, 2023, 11:04:07 pm
Round this time of year there are documentaries about 9/11.

I'm not suggesting they are worth watching, but they are what I am watching.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 08 September, 2023, 12:09:10 am
Round here 9/11 only means one thing: my grate frend Tom Amick's birthday :P
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 09 September, 2023, 09:42:09 pm
Well, having seen Annika recommended, we watched the first ep. Apart from the 4th wall stuff being ever so slightly amusing I thought it was mostly shite.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 09 September, 2023, 09:53:03 pm
Well, having seen Annika recommended, we watched the first ep. Apart from the 4th wall stuff being ever so slightly amusing I thought it was mostly shite.

Stick with it, it grows on you.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Woofage on 09 September, 2023, 11:27:00 pm
The original radio plays are better.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: onerousdeporte on 09 September, 2023, 11:53:46 pm
Well, having seen Annika recommended, we watched the first ep. Apart from the 4th wall stuff being ever so slightly amusing I thought it was mostly shite.

As woofage mentioned that the radio plays are really good.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 10 September, 2023, 07:21:02 pm
New series of Taskmaster starts 21st Sept.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 10 September, 2023, 07:29:46 pm
Hurray!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Woofage on 20 September, 2023, 03:41:41 pm
Just finished s1 of Hidden on iPlayer (mainly English but with a lot of subtitled Welsh). A murder/crime drama set in N Wales.

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 20 September, 2023, 07:47:13 pm
Just finished s1 of Hidden on iPlayer (mainly English but with a lot of subtitled Welsh). A murder/crime drama set in N Wales.

(click to show/hide)

We saw this when it was originally broadcast. If you enjoyed it try (if you haven’t already) Hinterland.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: drgannet on 20 September, 2023, 10:41:19 pm
Is it time to break the law? On Channel 4 tonight with Chris Packham. Very good.

Priceless timing from our government to make it's announcement on environmental policy U-turns earlier today.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: alfapete on 22 September, 2023, 12:22:22 pm
Is it time to break the law? On Channel 4 tonight with Chris Packham. Very good.

Priceless timing from our government to make it's announcement on environmental policy U-turns earlier today.

Yes, caught up with that yesterday. The programme was a bit self indulgent and will have annoyed many, but every sentiment he described was perfectly echoed in my own head. How long can I watch from the sidelines as we head, Thelma and Louise style, for the cliff edge. I've signed up for JSO Training and will see how that goes, but their protests are no longer being reported in the media so they feel a bit meek to me. It'll be interesting to see what Chris' next move is.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 23 September, 2023, 07:37:46 pm
We just watched the first episode (of 12) of Rise of the Nazis on iPlayer. Extremely well done, and fascinating as well.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 23 September, 2023, 09:25:51 pm
It is (I'm on 10/12).

I assume they didn't know they'd be making 4 series given that name, and that Stalingrad is done by s2/ep 2 and S4 starts with the Nuremberg trials.

The reconstructions could have been a bit naff but aren't for some reason. Enough (excellent) talking heads and real footage that they didn't overpower, perhaps.

It uses the technique of showing behind the scenes stuff (eg clapperboard, cameras, subjects sitting down and adjusting their clothing) to establish the first contrbution of each talking head per episode, but not to the extent that Once Upon a Time in Northern Ireland does. What's its purpose?

I see you you're doing TRotN and OUATINI double as well rafletcher. I hope you have something else a little lighter on the palate as well.

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 24 September, 2023, 11:40:59 am
It is (I'm on 10/12).

I assume they didn't know they'd be making 4 series given that name, and that Stalingrad is done by s2/ep 2 and S4 starts with the Nuremberg trials.

The reconstructions could have been a bit naff but aren't for some reason. Enough (excellent) talking heads and real footage that they didn't overpower, perhaps.

It uses the technique of showing behind the scenes stuff (eg clapperboard, cameras, subjects sitting down and adjusting their clothing) to establish the first contrbution of each talking head per episode, but not to the extent that Once Upon a Time in Northern Ireland does. What's its purpose?

I see you you're doing TRotN and OUATINI double as well rafletcher. I hope you have something else a little lighter on the palate as well.

Agree completely re the reconstructions, we remarked on that as well.

As for lightening the mood, well it’s Strictly and GBBO season too. Oh, and Climbing Tall Buildings. A repeat from some years ago, but excellent.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 02 October, 2023, 08:09:51 am
The Following Events Are Based On A Pack Of Lies (https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/p0fvml17/the-following-events-are-based-on-a-pack-of-lies)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Woofage on 02 October, 2023, 09:20:11 am
^ really enjoyed that :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 02 October, 2023, 09:23:17 am
Yes, we did too. Watched it as it was broadcast, until the last episode, we couldn't wait and reverted to iPlayer.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Tim Hall on 02 October, 2023, 09:31:56 pm
Very first episode of Cracker is on ITV3 at 2200 this evening.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 03 October, 2023, 10:43:04 am
New David Olusoga series Union started last night and was very good.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 October, 2023, 09:14:41 am
Black Snow, on BBC


Very, very good. Pleased to see 17-year-old schoolkids looking like teenagers, rather than mid-twenties adults.

I'm not from Queensland, but the aussie small-town attitudes rang true to me.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Woofage on 04 October, 2023, 11:23:05 am
Binged that yesterday (Mrs W & I currently have COVID so we just watched telly). I thought some of the acting was a bit wooden but overall I thought it was very good.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 04 October, 2023, 03:29:32 pm
Have a look at "Mystery Road" for more Aussie fix and the film "Goldstone", all faeturing Jay Swan (character).  And I read that the adaptation of Chris Hammers "Scrublands" is coming to the BBC at some point.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 04 October, 2023, 03:55:48 pm
Btw, did we all watch University Challenge on Monday? There was a whole set of bonus questions on Mike Burrows.

Suffice to say I got them all right.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Paul on 06 October, 2023, 08:48:34 pm
With apologies if I am late to the party, but I just watched If the Streets Were on Fire, a programme in the Storyville series on the BBC iplayer. ‘A group of young people express themselves on bikes as an alternative to gang culture’.
It’s a genuinely moving story, and I don’t want to give too much away, but the scenes where these kids are cycling are brilliant. Their faces tell the story of that feeling of freedom.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 08 October, 2023, 12:40:32 am
New series of HIGNIFY.  Sure, it's shooting fish in a barrel these days, but still decent Friday TV.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 October, 2023, 11:33:44 am
The final season of Sex Education.

Doesn't disappoint.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 09 October, 2023, 03:07:54 pm
New series of HIGNIFY.  Sure, it's shooting fish in a barrel these days, but still decent Friday TV.
I can see why Victoria Coren Mitchell gets on some people's tits, but she is very well suited to chairing HIGNFY.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 28 October, 2023, 09:54:47 am
This Thursday on BBC1 sees the return of Shetland, the first post-Henshel/Perez episode.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Asterix, the former Gaul. on 01 November, 2023, 07:09:15 pm
Are you sure? This is what I read:

Quote

Shetland series eight will premiere on Wednesday 1 November at 9pm on BBC One and iPlayer.

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 01 November, 2023, 07:51:55 pm
Are you sure? This is what I read:

Quote

Shetland series eight will premiere on Wednesday 1 November at 9pm on BBC One and iPlayer.


Indeed, is tonight, recording set anyway 😊
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 02 November, 2023, 03:45:40 pm
Shetland was very good!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 05 November, 2023, 09:17:52 pm
The Following Events Are Based On A Pack Of Lies (https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/p0fvml17/the-following-events-are-based-on-a-pack-of-lies)

Finally watched this. It went on a bit but the last ep was good.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 06 November, 2023, 07:26:19 am
I actually thought that the last episode that thinnest and least satisfying.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 12 November, 2023, 10:01:04 am
Not sure whether it’ll be worth watching, but the source material is good. The TV adaptation of Martin Hammer’s Scrublands set in the Australian outback starts on BBC4 next Saturday.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Steph on 13 November, 2023, 01:40:17 pm
Watched Bill Bailey in Western Oz on 4 last night. Laughed, recognised specific bits of road from my tour over there, and found myself almost weeping with the wish I was still there.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 14 November, 2023, 04:52:30 pm
We watched it and were very disappointed, we expected more insight from him. Just another celeb travelogue after all. Pretty scenery but hardly representative of the whole of WA.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Steph on 16 November, 2023, 06:07:28 am
I take your point! I was watching it for "Oh, I remember that bit!"

When they mentioned ships at Esperance, I was expecting at least a mention of the Salton Sea.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 16 November, 2023, 09:34:41 pm
My wife has been watching Time and I've been dipping into it - which is to say that I've been doing other things at the time but have been finding myself drawn into it because of how good it is. Really can't say I've been enjoying it though. It's grim. Very grim.

That Jodie Whittaker can act, can't she?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Basil on 26 November, 2023, 09:01:19 pm
This evening on BBC4.
Maria Callas.
Wow! Finally I get it.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 29 November, 2023, 08:45:33 pm
Not current, we started watching Black Snow, a fairly generic cold case cop show set, in this case, in the sugar cane fields of North Queensland. But because of its setting, and the interweaving of the history of the South Sea Islanders it’s pretty good.

Things I learnt from watching it:

Between 1860-1900’ish some 62,000 islanders from Vanuatu, Tuvalu, PNG and dozens of other islands were brought in as indentured labour for the cane fields

The title harks back to when the cane fields were burnt before harvest, leading to clouds of airborne ash flakes.

Packs of playing cards with eg missing persons on, and a reward for information are distributed in Australian jails in an effort to garner information.

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 29 November, 2023, 08:57:10 pm
I'm watching it now (2/6). Apart from the time capsule thing which seems nonsense (but is central to the whole thing) I'm enjoying it very much. And, so far, I'm following what's going on. Which is more than I can say about Shetland.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 29 November, 2023, 09:25:20 pm
I literally cannot remember the last time I saw decent comedy on TV (apart from stand up). Where has it all gone?
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 29 November, 2023, 09:56:59 pm
I literally cannot remember the last time I saw decent comedy on TV (apart from stand up). Where has it all gone?

Not a laugh out loud, but try Colin from Accounts on iPlayer.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Woofage on 29 November, 2023, 10:50:43 pm
Just started Boat Story (BBC). Very good so far. If you liked The Following Events... and We Hunt Together you'll probably like this.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 29 November, 2023, 11:38:54 pm
I literally cannot remember the last time I saw decent comedy on TV (apart from stand up). Where has it all gone?

Wot? No Mrs Brown's Boys?  :sick:
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 30 November, 2023, 10:15:16 am
I'm watching it now (2/6). Apart from the time capsule thing which seems nonsense (but is central to the whole thing) I'm enjoying it very much. And, so far, I'm following what's going on. Which is more than I can say about Shetland.

The time capsule thing is very australian. We buried them at school when I was a kid, in the 70s.

Background to sugar cane burning.

When the cane was cut by hand, they only burnt it if the field was infested with snakes, rats and cane toads. Mostly rats. Once burnt, the cane has to get to the refinery within hours, so puts the pressure on the cutters.

there are narrow gauge railways built just to take cane from the fields to the refinery.

Mechanical harvesters struggled to cope with the leaves on the cane, so they started burning it to make it easier to cut by machine.

The modern version of indentured workers still exists in Australia. Quite a lot of PNG workers are brought over, paid sod all, and kept in farm accommodation.

Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 30 November, 2023, 01:00:11 pm
OT: From what I saw they now shear the green tops off mechanically before cutting and chopping the cane into tractor pulled cages.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Nuncio on 30 November, 2023, 04:12:20 pm
I'm watching it now (2/6). Apart from the time capsule thing which seems nonsense (but is central to the whole thing) I'm enjoying it very much. And, so far, I'm following what's going on. Which is more than I can say about Shetland.

The time capsule thing is very australian. We buried them at school when I was a kid, in the 70s.

It was the 'to be dug up in 25 years' aspect of it that seemed implausible. To me.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 10 December, 2023, 07:51:11 pm
Enjoying Vigil (second season) on iPlayer.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: TimC on 11 December, 2023, 09:52:54 am
Enjoying Vigil (second season) on iPlayer.

It's a decent plot, but their depiction of the RAF is cringeworthy.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 11 December, 2023, 10:23:46 am
And the fact that the drones don’t flinch, either when shooting, or being shot.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Auntie Helen on 11 December, 2023, 01:14:16 pm
I presume it’s as accurate as their time in a submarine last season.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 11 December, 2023, 04:34:59 pm
I presume it’s as accurate as their time in a submarine last season.

Most likely, and that’s why we never completed episode 2 of season 1. It wasn’t as creaky as “The Rig” though, so you can guess how bad that was!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: TimC on 11 December, 2023, 10:21:56 pm
I've just worked out that the air base in 'Wudyan' is Kenitra Air Base, near Rabat in Morocco (a former US Navy air base). I wonder if the Moroccan Air Force realised how much of their base would end up on prime-time TV?

(https://i.imgur.com/vJLN357.jpg)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 18 December, 2023, 06:55:03 pm
I guess it’s on iPlayer Dark Hearts a French made series set in Iraq. Excellent so far (6 out of 8).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 19 December, 2023, 06:45:25 am
I've just worked out that the air base in 'Wudyan' is Kenitra Air Base, near Rabat in Morocco (a former US Navy air base). I wonder if the Moroccan Air Force realised how much of their base would end up on prime-time TV?

(https://i.imgur.com/vJLN357.jpg)
Maybe they knew full well? It's not like they filmed in the dark, or with hidden cameras ...
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 31 December, 2023, 09:17:28 am
Tomorrow the second series of The Tourist commences. We enjoyed the first, and despite the relocation from Outback to Ireland are looking forward to this series. 
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: fd3 on 31 December, 2023, 06:12:58 pm
^^ I thought ghosts was decent.

I have struggled to find something good on either streaming or TV in a while now.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Jaded on 01 January, 2024, 11:48:34 pm
We’ve just watched the last bits of Vigil. It got more watchable, but no more credible.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Flite on 02 January, 2024, 08:19:09 am
Digging for Britain with Alice Roberts is back this evening.
Three episodes this week and three next week, I think
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 02 January, 2024, 08:38:12 am
We’ve just watched the last bits of Vigil. It got more watchable, but no more credible.

Part of the problem with BBC dramas like this is the appalling standard of acting. The look like they are phoning it in.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mattc on 02 January, 2024, 11:30:33 am
We’ve just watched the last bits of Vigil. It got more watchable, but no more credible.

Part of the problem with BBC dramas like this is the appalling standard of acting. The look like they are phoning it in.
You can't please everyone!
In the last episode I got quite teary-eyed at the two reunion scenes between loved ones. Beautifully done, IMHO!
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 02 January, 2024, 11:34:40 am
Taskmasters New Year's Treat is on tonight.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Woofage on 03 January, 2024, 02:17:35 pm
Mr Bates vs The Post Office

Enough to raise your blood pressure and have you shouting at the telly.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Paul on 03 January, 2024, 03:42:35 pm
Mr Bates vs The Post Office

Enough to raise your blood pressure and have you shouting at the telly.
+1
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 04 January, 2024, 09:14:57 am
+2
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 04 January, 2024, 09:32:11 am
Hmmm, I tend to shy away from ITV dramatisations of true stories but I did listen to the BBC Radio 4 documentary The Great Post Office Trial, which had a similar effect.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000jf7j

As so often seems to be the case, the main perpetrators have still not been brought to justice.  >:(
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 06 January, 2024, 09:08:53 am
A heads up. Series 2 of Big Boys starts Sunday week (14th) on Ch4. If it’s half as good as series 1 it’ll be excellent.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: StuAff on 06 January, 2024, 10:10:08 pm
2024 is already shaping up to be rather good for TV drama. +1 another one for Mr Bates (as fury-inducing as it was), The Tourist, and just catching up with Truelove (amazing cast given material worthy of them).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 17 January, 2024, 08:59:16 am
Boat Story on iplayer.

Phenomenal
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 17 January, 2024, 05:10:51 pm
Just started Boat Story (BBC). Very good so far. If you liked The Following Events... and We Hunt Together you'll probably like this.

I'm up to ep 3 and it just gets better and better.

So far it rivals Killing Eve
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 19 January, 2024, 03:29:16 pm
Just started Boat Story (BBC). Very good so far. If you liked The Following Events... and We Hunt Together you'll probably like this.

I'm up to ep 3 and it just gets better and better.

So far it rivals Killing Eve

Haven't got round to Boat Story yet but I did like the look of it. It's made by the same people who made The Tourist, which I very much enjoyed (though I've not started on the second series yet).

I thought The Following Events... was really terrible, though, and what I saw of Killing Eve vicariously through Gogglebox was enough to put me off.  ;D

Never even heard of We Hunt Together.

Despite what I said about the first series last year, I'm totally hooked on the current series of The Traitors. I think my opinion of the first series was coloured by coming in to it quite late and not knowing who the characters were. You need to be with it from the start - which I was with this series as a colleague was in it. I generally hate this kind of "reality" show, but I love the format of this one, and Claudia Winkleman is perfect as the host.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 19 January, 2024, 07:42:41 pm
I would not really compare (at least the early series) of Killing Eve with The Following Events. IMO TFE was not in the same league at all.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 19 January, 2024, 08:23:14 pm
I would not really compare (at least the early series) of Killing Eve with The Following Events. IMO TFE was not in the same league at all.
Completely agree - Killing Eve was a classic case of shark-jumping; TFE knew when to stop.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Mrs Pingu on 19 January, 2024, 08:26:00 pm
I did say the early series. And TFE clearly left the ending open for another series.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 19 January, 2024, 09:24:28 pm
Just watched the first episode of The Tourist.

Very tense.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 29 January, 2024, 01:07:47 pm
Despite what I said about the first series last year, I'm totally hooked on the current series of The Traitors. I think my opinion of the first series was coloured by coming in to it quite late and not knowing who the characters were. You need to be with it from the start - which I was with this series as a colleague was in it. I generally hate this kind of "reality" show, but I love the format of this one, and Claudia Winkleman is perfect as the host.
Go on then - which of the contestants was your colleague?

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 29 January, 2024, 01:14:52 pm
We've just finished binging Those Who Kill

3 seasons of scandi noir.

V good. Notable in that the characters are fairly rounded. Even murderers can be likable.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 29 January, 2024, 01:29:48 pm
Go on then - which of the contestants was your colleague?

Ash

Quote
(click to show/hide)

(click to show/hide)

We've been watching the second Aussie series over the weekend. There's a Harry-like figure in that one too but he's even bigger bellend.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 29 January, 2024, 01:32:40 pm
Just watched the first episode of The Tourist.

Very tense.

I didn't enjoy the second series as much as the first - the contrast between the violence and the comedy feels a bit jarring at times, and the ending is a bit unsatisfying. It's still very good though.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Woofage on 29 January, 2024, 01:36:43 pm
We've been watching the second Aussie series over the weekend. There's a Harry-like figure in that one too but he's even bigger bellend.

Which person do you mean? The one that made the speeches?

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Woofage on 09 February, 2024, 03:15:21 pm
Decided to watch S2 of Aussie Traitors. Superb ending!

(click to show/hide)
Title: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: citoyen on 09 February, 2024, 05:40:36 pm
That’s the one I meant!

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 18 February, 2024, 09:49:50 am
Boat Story on iplayer.

Phenomenal

We’ve just started to watch this. Remarkable.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: sam on 18 February, 2024, 10:17:41 am
Evidently I have to watch The Tourist. Very tense about this, as I've been a tourist, and it hasn't always ended well.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: jwo on 19 February, 2024, 10:09:29 pm
The Way. Highly recommended.

Welsh Revolution ✅
Michael Sheen ✅
Adam Curtis ✅
James Graham (Sherwood) ✅

Was everything I'd hoped for (so far).
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: rafletcher on 02 March, 2024, 12:31:15 pm
Friday, 23:35, p BBC2, the final season of “How To with John Wilson” If you’ve not seen it before, do a search for the scaffolding episode, which I think was season 2.
Title: Re: Television tonight: what's worth watching?
Post by: Legs on 04 March, 2024, 11:11:02 am
The Rescue (https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m001wtqp/the-rescue) on iPlayer is well worth a watch.