There are probably countless ways to judge a movie or series, you know. Like how long the battle scenes go on for, how much skin is on display, or the number of jokes cracked by the main character or villain.
Or you could consider the quality of the story. And the depth of the characters.
If you’ve made it this far, I reckon you’re in the latter camp too. I remember a heated online debate I had once with someone who also thinks Gladiator is a masterpiece. Unlike the battles in that film though, our discussion lasted mere moments. I wanted to dissect the dialogue; especially fascinated by the inner struggle of good versus evil. Joaquin Phoenix’s monologue when the young emperor murders his father is simply masterful. But my “debate partner”? Not interested in any of that. He just rewinds the film to rewatch the battle scenes.
Don’t get me wrong, evaluating the film on the imaginative and realistic depiction of Roman generals is a perfectly valid viewpoint. But it’s hard to argue with someone who prefers visuals over words.
Now, to avoid sounding like a snob, I’ve got to admit I sometimes indulge in reality TV. Specifically, Wife Swap, whether it’s the British, Australian, or even the Czech versions.
Or Gordon Ramsay and his Kitchen Nightmares (the Czech adaptation is by Zdeněk Polreich in Yes, Boss). If you think your English swearing skills are up to par and consider the language limited and uncreative, Gordon will set you straight in the very first episode of the British version. I’m banned from watching the American version of Kitchen Nightmares when I visit my parents. My mum can’t stand that endless beeping.
My absolute favourites include American and Australian Survivor. I’m hooked on the Australian edition of Married at First Sight. And if you’re not familiar with The Biggest Loser, then you’re missing out on a lot of weight-loss drama.
If I had to pick my ultimate series, Game of Thrones would reign supreme, with none coming close for a long time. But despite the popularity of characters like Tyrion Lannister, my heart leans towards his sister Cersei. In short, I’ve got a soft spot for complex villains.
Now, Californication is a whole different ball game. As I mentioned earlier, I owe my pen name “Moody” partly to the protagonist. If you’re not familiar and looking to expand your horizons, the show follows an aging writer battling writer’s block, who’s also an unapologetic womanizer. And he’s played by none other than David Duchovny, looking every bit as charming and devilish as ever. He leaves a trail of destruction in his wake, but deep down, he’s only truly interested in one woman: his ex.
When it comes to series I’ve watched more times than I can count, The Big Bang Theory takes the top spot. Simply put, it’s clever humour with a brilliant cast. But you probably already knew that.
Of course, there are plenty more fantastic series I could recommend. I used to adore Sex and the City, but things took a nosedive with those newfangled “progressive” episodes of And Just Like That. Ally McBeal hasn’t lost any of its charm. And then there’s the intelligent crime shows like Criminal Minds, Dexter, or The Mentalist.
The new episodes of Doctor Who are a league of their own. The first time I saw “The Empty Child, or Are You My Mummy?”, I don’t think I’ve ever been so terrified in my life. And then there’s the Weeping Angels – once they’ve got you, they’ve got you. And don’t even get me started on movies…