Yes, I am a little slow on the uptake sometimes. Dexter the TV series (based on the novel Darkly Dreaming Dexter by Jeff Lindsay) is about a Forensics cop by the name of Dexter who is also a serial killer when he’s not on duty. It’s been screening since 2006 and I have been told repeatedly by everyone to watch it since I got to Vancouver. Tonight was the night. Moonlight wasn’t working (a new series about vampires starring Shannyn Sossamon – go figure), so I tried it out. And it turns out I like the blood, the gore, the twisted sense of dark dark witty humour, but more surprisingly his frank openness to admit he’s completely disconnected with the rest of society – his inability to empathise. Though sometimes it seems he is or can, he just chooses to over-analyse it and thereby not recognise it as something he’s capable of possessing.
He sums it up: “All you can do is play along at life, and hope that sometimes you get it right.”
And: “My sister hides who she really is so she doesn’t look like she cares, I hide who I really am so it does.”
The best bits of the show are when he totally wins at being an ethical serial killer and a freakishly nerdy forensics cop, but immediately after fails as a human being. He’s very awkward and distant most of the time – and he knows it. Sometimes it feels so genuine and funny, it’s almost like the writers are sharing a personal joke with you. (The writers include Scott Buck and Drew Greenberg of Six Feet Under and Buffy/Angel amongst others.) And I wonder; does the success and cult following of a show of this nature and humour signify the growing disconnection we feel in our ever technically connected lifestyle? Has growing up with politically incorrect cartoons (now banned) and Tim Burton-esque films made me a subversive cynical person? Or is my generation just more aware of this? Is this just my generation? What will my politicians be like in another 10-15 years?
Dexter stars Michael C. Hall (David from Six Feet Under) and is somewhere between SVU and American Psycho. I don’t know how the show passes censors, but damn it I’m glad it does. Films can’t get away with this kind of subject matter anymore; where good wicked humour is under the guise of vigilante justice for the ethically minded serial killer – it’s only in TV that they can have the freedom to explore the really sinister side of ourselves. Of course, Dexter is still very lovable as he only kills “bad” guys.
Who needs Tivo when you have the internet?
I’m going to put some trust into the longevity of files on the interweb, and going to watch streaming tv online, rather than download things… unless I can’t find them streamed or they are special.
So, I’m up to date with all fine things that are Grey’s, and I was reccommended Flight of the Conchords by someone at work – two Kiwi guys go about doing random music skits, I still haven’t figured out what the show is about, but the two clips below are pretty funny; so’s I think:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/v/JT5AQIlmM0I[/youtube]
Actually, they kinda remind me of a more high-tech Tripod:
Anyone got any suggestions of tv shows to watch? Am steering clear of things that will involve marathon watches… So, I’ll pick up Heroes and Lost some other time, when I have time to care.
I’ve been trying really hard to sit still and watch lots of movies and tv this Easter long weekend. I’ve decided Easter is a fantastic public holiday. Four entire days off! Bellisimo!
Just completed The Host aka Gweomul (meaning beast or monster in Korean). Basically, it’s a Korean monster horror/thriller. Very comical throughout, which is why it shocked me every time after luring me with it’s false sense of security.
Korean films have been the filmic hype the last year or two. I haven’t seen many of the highly acclaimed ones, I fear being Korean and brought up traditionally, I will fall asleep trying to watch the more artistic films. I usually like the predictable romantic comedies or comic actions – like the other Korean film I saw yesterday. Wouldn’t have a clue what the title was in English, but its a Korean and Hong Kong ganster film, about a beautiful and tough HK female ganster daughter and a hapless young male Korean gangster falling in love, while never being able to communicate to one another. Pretty funny stuff tho.
Watching these films always makes me think how much fun Korean culture and especially language and their expression are. Bloody Asians.
There’s always a fall out guy who is a loser, by the end he’s the lovable hero of course.
Many of the good guys are addled with flaws – being too emotional or usually drunk/dumb and emotional – leading to theatrics and a reason to splutter so many swear words and funny expressions. They’ll surprise you, these guys, so watch out. Don’t underestimate them, and don’t mistake their initial disenchantment for cynicism… I think it’s just culture.
The telling of these so called “black comedies” are just the way Korean stories seem to be told. There’s always humour in plight. Our circumstances do often define us, so we make do. Encourage the next generation with our funny yet serious tales.
I’ve no idea what I’m on about now. I just liked the ending when the monster gets smacked down (not a spoiler as you see this coming… right?). I’m tired. One of the most satisfactory monster slayings in a long time. Sure as hell beat Perfume. Which I also saw yesterday and was so unhappy with. It was so good until the end! Argh.
- Dammit, I just realised I forgot to watch the second episode to Search for the new Pussycat Doll! Doh!
I didn’t see that one coming – I thought I’d be Dr. Yang.
Who are you?
I’ve been wasting my time watching lots of TV (thanks Marcus!).Grey’s Anatomy Season 2 – check
Grey’s Anatomy Season 3 – check
Heroes – check
And, Ugly Betty.
It’s a cute little show about a young ugly clueless girl from Queens with a heart of gold, attaining her dream career by entering the hard bitchy world of the fashion magazine world. Sound familiar? Definitly borrows a lot from Devil Wears Prada, but lengthier and more childish… Also reminicient of My Big Fat Greek Wedding and Freaks and Geeks.It’s a little tacky, cheesy and cheap… but it’s happy and nice. I’m starting to find it quite charming. Have to say though, it’s the cast that keep bringing me back.
It stars America Ferrera (of Real Women Have Curves and Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants), Alan Dale (of Neighbours and The OC), Eric Mabius (Welcome to the Doll House and The L Word), Vanessa Williams and Salma Hayek! Yeh, so… Yeh.
Best thing since sliced kosher bread: Grey’s Anatomy Episode Music Guide.
Now you can find out what ALL the great music they use on each episode are! Choice!
