Discussing THE INTERVIEW

Article first published as Movie Review: 'The Interview' on Blogcritics.

Much press has surrounded the controversial film The Interview, which Sony first canceled, and then later made available, to independent theaters and video-on-demand services. (Many major theater chains have opted not to carry it, though presumably they could if they wanted to.) Now that the movie has come out, I couldn’t help but check it out, considering the attention, and see if it is worth the trouble surrounding it. The short answer is, sort of.

The plot of The Interview is goofy, bordering on surrealistic. Television producer Aaron Rapaport (Seth Rogen, Super Bad, The Comeback) wants to get into more serious news, but the star he works with, Dave Skylark (James Franco, 127 Hours, The Mindy Project), is all about sensationalist entertainment. These two worlds merge when the guys find out Kim Jong-un (Randall Park, Veep, Larry Crowne) is a super-fan of Skylark and invites them to visit, which is complicated when the U.S. government asks Skylark to assassinate the dictator, and gives him minimal training to do so.

One can easily see why North Korea is upset by this movie. It takes their Supreme Leader, whom they worship as a god, and make him a metrosexual, emotional, cartoon character. In fact, much is made in the movie of exposing the true Kim to the people of that country, something that would go against the administration’s policies. With a dramatic climax that I won’t spoil, which goes a step further in defacing Kim, it makes sense that his home country wouldn’t want people to see The Interview.

That being said, terrorism is inexcusable, and threatening nuclear warfare isn’t right. The United States would never do that to anyone who made a similar movie about our elected leader. In fact, a British film about George W. Bush’s fictional murder, Death of a President was released in 2007, though that one was not a comedy. In that spirit, I urge many people to see The Interview, if for no other reason than to thumb our noses at a petty regime that would seek to infringe upon freedom of speech and resort to scare tactics to censor art.

The Interview is pretty funny, though not spectacularly so. Rogen’s character isn’t very humorous, presumably on purpose, which drags down the feature more than if every part of the script were to be played for laughs. But Franco is hilarious, especially when sharing the screen with Park, whom will soon be starring in an ABC sitcom called Fresh Off the Boat, and is absolutely terrific here. The supporting cast includes many notable faces, including Lizzy Caplan (Masters of Sex), Ben Schwartz (House of Lies), Timothy Simons (Veep), Diana Bang (Bates Motel), Rob Lowe (Parks and Recreation), rapper Eminem, and many semi-self-playing cameos. The movie makes terrific use for Katy Perry’s “Firework,” and there are a number of laugh-out-loud moments.

Where the piece suffers is in it’s satirical quality. It flirts with full-on lampooning in the style of Team America: World Police, which skewered Kim’s father, but backs off by trying to make itself a more mainstream film. It raises several important issues, such as the state of current media, but it barely scratches the surface.

I can’t help but wonder how much better The Interview would be had it fully committed to its premise, instead of couching a relatively pedestrian, predictable buddy story that happens to be set in an outrageous environment. Franco and Rogen’s This Is the End is superior because every bit of it revolves around the unique tale being told. The Interview pulls itself back, making it relatively tame and safe by comparison.

Is The Interview worth watching? Sure. I probably would have viewed it when it came to HBO or another premium channel, rather than going to see it in theaters, but I still would have eventually watched it. Is it worth owning? Probably, but only because of the stir it created in our culture, not being quite good enough on its own merit to shell out my hard-earned money for. But right now, when you can pay a few bucks to watch it on YouTube, I recommend everyone check it out, even if the stars aren’t quite your brand of humor, which is admittedly not critically-acclaimed.

The Interview is currently in select theaters, as well as being available on YouTube, GooglePlay, iTunes, and other online outlets.

MASTERS OF SEX Season 2 Review

Article originally published as MASTERS OF SEX Review Season 2 on Seat42F.

Showtime’s MASTERS OF SEX begins its second season this week with “Parallax.” A number of things happen in the first hour back, but mainly it is a reset. Months have passed since the finale, though we see flashbacks to the scene immediately following Masters (Michael Sheen) showing up on Virginia’s (Lizzy Caplan) doorstep. From there, the story begins moving forward again, catching us up with most of the primary cast and beginning their latest plot arcs.

When last we saw him, Masters had been fried from the university because of the scandalous nature of his study. Knowing who this man is and what he is known for, MASTERS OF SEX being based on real events, viewers are not expecting him to give up, and they will not be disappointed. Masters has trouble keeping his mouth shut, which often works against him, but he’s also dedicated and persistent, qualities that serve him well. And while his former employer may not have the stomach to support the exploration of human sexuality, not everyone is so squeamish. It doesn’t take too long for Masters to recruit a new benefactor (Danny Huston, Magic City).

Like many modern protagonists, Masters is not inherently likable. There is not ‘but’ coming here. He may be intelligent and able to eventually meet his career goals, but he lacks in other areas. For instance, he finds it a struggle to be a good father, now that Libby (Caitlin Fitzgerald) has had their baby. It’s odd that someone who works so well on the baby making process can handle the results of their efforts, but Masters is not kid-friendly, as you’ll see in “Parallax.” This begs the question, can he ever be happy with his family, and can they ever be happy with him?

Virginia does get another side of Masters, but even that isn’t his strongest side. Yes, he puts Virginia’s name on the study and certainly wants her to be included in future work. But it’s not like they’re out selling themselves as a package deal. Virginia is still in the employment of Dr. DePaul (Julianne Nicholson), which does not net her enough to support her family. Virginia is definitely adrift in this premiere, finding it hard to take a step back down after the heights she achieved with Masters, working to readjust to a more boring existence, something she’ll never be satisfied with, because he doesn’t show her his loyalty.

The pathos exhibited by Masters and Virginia, both complex, interesting individuals, are engaging on their own, but MASTERS OF SEX really gets humming when the two combine. While most television shows with a co-ed leading duo have sexual tension, and Masters and Virginia do, too, they are different. There is no foregone conclusion that they will end up together, and “Parallax” actually finds them pulling apart. This is done in an authentic way, lacking the usual television tropes that artificially drive a wedge to keep the story going, and it’s far from certain if the writers are done with them as a couple before they even get started, or if there could be a bit more personal stuff between them in the future. They work together well; they may or may not be able to sustain romantic interest.

My favorite recurring players on MASTERS OF SEX, and there are many good ones to choose from, are Barton Scully (Beau Bridges) and his wife, Margaret (Allison Janey). This season premiere continues to cover their problems, Barton seeking a ‘cure’ for his homosexuality and Margaret no longer willing to look the other way, but acting as supportive of Barton as she can be. I was a bit concerned they’d be dropped from the series as Masters and Virginia move away from them, but while neither has been upgraded to main cast member, so their time could be limited, at least MASTERS OF SEX seems likely to see their story through.

In general, while nothing huge really happens until the very end of the hour, “Parallax” is a solid start to a sophomore season, serving its purpose and providing enough hooks to keep the audience returning. There are some very moving moments between players and it continues at the quality level fans expect. Plus, it ends with a very big development that will have fans talking.

MASTERS OF SEX returns July 13^th and airs Sundays at 10 p.m. ET.

MASTERS OF SEX "Manhigh" : Season Finale Review

Article first published as MASTERS OF SEX "Manhigh" : Season Finale Review on TheTVKing.

Showtime's excellent Masters of Sex completed its freshman run this week with "Manhigh." Bill Masters (Michael Sheen) prepares to present his findings of the past year of study to the hospital at large. Anticipation among the staff is high, and everyone eagerly packs the auditorium to hear Masters speak. But without Virginia Johnson (Lizzy Caplan) by his side, Masters overreaches and finds himself facing steep consequences.

Masters needs Virginia as much as any great partnership only works with both partners. He's brilliant, but bad at handling people. Virginia is smart, too, but her interpersonal skills are what balances him out so well. Masters would never have gotten as far as he did in his work without her to smooth his rough edges and communicate with their participants, calming anxieties. Now, her absence costs him dearly.

Masters realizes Virginia's importance, as evidenced by his inclusion of Virginia's name on the work product. He doesn't have to, with Virginia now working for Dr. DePaul (Julianne Nicholson) instead of him, but he does it out of appreciation for all that she has done. He isn't arrogant enough to minimize her contribution, and gives her the credit she has earned, even though she's a woman and women didn't get credit as freely at the time this story takes place.

Not that Masters is without assistance. His new helper, Jane (Helene Yorke), believes in him, as do cameraman Lester (Kevin Christy) and Bill's wife, Libby (Caitlin FitzGerald). But none of those three have Bill's ear or his professional respect the way that Virginia does. He likely appreciates them in some small way, but he doesn't consider them on the same level, and thus there is no one to tell him to temper himself.

Which is why the presentation is a disaster. Doctors and board members are shocked to see the inside of a vagina and the body of a woman masturbating, especially with women present in the room. They leave angrily, ignoring the statistics and invalidating Masters' work. In this instance, his data may be solid, but no one is going to pay attention to it because he screws up the initial conversation. He's his own worst enemy. Can he salvage anything from his efforts?

"Manhigh" ends with Bill standing on Virginia's door step in the rain telling Virginia that he needs her. This, more than her name on the work, leaves him bare and vulnerable, admitting something he didn't want to say out loud for the longest time. He swallows his pride and asks her to come back to him. This may be unhealthy, as he's missing the birth of his child, and he shows an obsession towards her with the use of footage of Virginia's body in the presentation. Knowing Bill is married and liking his wife, Virginia may be hesitant to return to the man who has few boundaries. But will she?

Virginia has a choice to make. She can stay in her home and work with Dr. DePaul and / or Masters. Or she can marry Ethan (Nicholas D'Agosto) and move away. This isn't as simple a decision as it may appear. Yes, Virginia loves her work, and with Dr. DePaul sick and Masters fired, both need extra help. But Ethan is really good to her kids, and they matter quite a bit to her, too, so she may want to put their needs ahead of hers.

Let's be honest, although "Manhigh" doesn't reveal Virginia's choice, she has to work with Bill. Otherwise, there's no show. Masters of Sex hinges on the relationship between the two of them, and as much as I enjoy the other characters, the rest are expendable. Thus, somehow, Bill and Virginia will end up working together again.

Besides this central plot, there are a lot of great supporting moments in "Manhigh." I love Barton's (Beau Bridges) struggle with his homosexuality, and his wife, Martha (Allison Janney), asking him not to undergo aversion therapy when she sees how bad it is. They are a couple I can't get enough of. I love Barton standing up for Masters, and Masters doing Barton a favor by saving the elder man's job. I love Lester and Jane's kiss. I love the masturbation conversation between Lester and Masters. I love seeing Libby hold her baby, someone that will surely bring her the joy her husband can't give her.

Masters of Sex is wonderful because of all of this. The two leads are fantastic, but the other players are terrific, too. The stories are well structured, with appropriate story for recurring parts without taking away from the whole, and layered, developed, authentic characters. There's commentary on the time and culture that doesn't feel preachy, and real questions that can't be quickly and easily answered are posed. It's definitely my new favorite Showtime series.

Masters of Sex has been renewed and will return next year to Showtime.

TV Review: ‘The League’ – ‘Baby Geoffrey Jesus’ and ‘The 8 Defensive Points of Hanukkah’

Article first published as TV Review: ‘The League’ – ‘Baby Geoffrey Jesus’ and ‘The 8 Defensive Points of Hanukkah’ on Blogcritics.

FXX’s The League ended season five with a two-part episode this week. In the first, “Baby Geoffrey Jesus,” Ruxin (Nick Kroll) is upset when his young son, Geoffrey, is chosen to play the part of Jesus in his Catholic school play, insisting that Geoffrey practice Judaism like his father sort of does. This battle continues in “The 8 Defensive Points of Hanukkah” as Ruxin tries to bring the holiday into his home and vanquish Christmas.

There are other subplots happening in these two episodes, as The League is about an ensemble cast, but Ruxin is certainly a fan favorite, in that viewers love to hate him, so it’s kind of fun to let him be front and center in the final hour of the year. He earns many a laugh, as usual.

Ruxin isn’t exactly a faithfully practicing Jew, but he does tend to think differently of himself than others do, and gets very upset when people question those characteristics he claims to have. He uses Judaism to get his way more than actually honoring the faith. This is obvious when his rabbi calls him out on his ill behavior towards his friends, and also when he manipulates his brother-in-law, Rafi (Jason Mantzoukas), into converting.

Ruxin’s intention is not to help Rafi bed Ruxin’s sister (Lizzy Caplan, Masters of Sex), which he unintentionally does, but rather, to have Rafi influence Ruxin’s son, Geoffrey (Adam Karchmer), since Geoffrey looks up to Rafi. Ruxin has to go through Rafi because he stands no chance in talking Geoffrey’s mother, Sofia (Nadine Velazquez) into anything, and she wants their child to be Christian.

Ruxin and Sofia have a very strange relationship, and for the longest time I wondered what she gets out of the deal. She’s hot, so that’s Ruxin’s reason for wanting to be with her, but Ruxin, while making a comfortable living, isn’t rich, he’s pretty much a total jerk, and she actually seems to care about him. Maybe she likes getting her way, though, and knows she can with Ruxin, who is vulnerable to the power of her charms.

As usual, Ruxin’s plot fails, though he does get a happy moment when he is able to pass off the Sacko Ruxin trophy to Kevin (Stephen Rannazzisi). The League must toss Ruxin some victories periodically, and his inappropriate dance backed up by a gospel choir in a church is one of his more memorable gloats. It’s moments like these, horribly offensive, and yet terribly funny, that make The League so enjoyable to watch.

While Kevin loses the fantasy football league, thanks to his wife, Jenny’s (Katie Aselton), advice, Jenny wins it all after listening to Kevin. Honestly, who wins and loses isn’t super important, and five years in, it’s hard to keep much weight on that outcome, which is probably why the story point is dropped late in the hour and not the center of the full two episodes. I have to hand it to The League, though; having Kevin and Jenny take home the trophies the way they do is clever and fresh, making this season finale have impact.

Kevin and Jenny do have some martial strife in “Baby Geoffrey Jesus” when Jenny asks her ex-boyfriend, Ben (Ryan Hansen, Party Down), for help with her lineup. Kevin takes this worse than he would learning Jenny has cheated in him, and temporarily crashes with Pete (Mark Duplass) while he pouts. I find it very funny that Kevin lets such a betrayal affect him so deeply, but I also am not surprised, based on the characters, and am glad this is resolved in “The 8 Defensive Points of Hanukkah,” thus leaving the couple intact once more. They seem so good together, overall.

In the last subplot that really counts, Andre (Paul Scheer) stupidly partners with his rival (Parks and Recreation‘s Aziz Ansari) without reading the contract, which results in Andre being sent overseas. At least, that’s what would have happened if Taco (Jonathan Lajoie) and Rafi didn’t accidentally crush the guy’s hand, saving Andre’s job and home. So he has a happy ending, too.

I actually am disappointed by the quick save here. The League walks a delicate balance between allowing their characters to grow but not losing the amazing cast dynamic. In doing so, it is usually conservative in big changes. Yes, only a year ago Andre was facing major upheaval, which took several episodes to work out. But I still would have liked to have seen this go further. After all, there is always a many-months-long break in the action, so Andre could easily just be returning home when the next season begins. And it wouldn’t ruin the show like a Kevin / Jenny divorce would.

Along those lines, it would also be really cool if we had a spring run some time, with installments that weren’t beholden to fantasy football. Much of the regular season has nothing to do with the game, and I’d like some more of that.Maybe six episodes would be appropriate? Though this seems unlikely to happen.

Other than the one minor complaint, both “Baby Geoffrey Jesus” and “The 8 Defensive Points of Hanukkah” are great episodes. The show remains as hilarious as ever, not having lost anything with age, and still finding new ways to go with its story. Andre running a long con on Kevin is fantastic, and so are just about all the other small moments within.  I look forward to whatever they cook up next.

The League has already been renewed will return to FXX for a sixth go-round next fall.

MASTERS OF SEX Masters of Drama

Review first published as MASTERS OF SEX Review on Seat42F.

Showtime knows what it’s doing by calling their new series MASTERS OF SEX. Clearly, that title will draw a crowd, if for nothing else than to check out what scandalous things will be in it. What’s better, though, is that there is an actual story behind this moniker, that of Dr. William Masters (Michael Sheen, Frost/Nixon) and Virginia Johnson (Lizzy Caplan, New Girl), who revolutionized the study of human sexuality in the 1950s.

MASTERS OF SEX is based on a true tale, though like most dramas that can claim that, there is likely quite a bit of creative license taken. It’s hard to believe that only a few scant decades ago, science hadn’t even begun to look into the orgasm, let alone recognize the difference between sex drives in men and women. As such, this is a gripping story about an important moment in our country and the world.

It’s far from boring. Great performers like Sheen, Caplan, Beau Bridges (The Descendants) as the reluctant boss, and Margo Martindale (Justified, The Americans) as an uptight secretary, make these characters come alive, more interesting than most real people, roles you want to tune in and watch. They exude charisma, while keeping the parts grounded, playing the subtleties and layers, even in the smallest of scenes.

A lot happens in the “Pilot.” Masters comes up with the study and tries to convince Barton Scully (Bridges) to approve it. He finds and hires Virginia to help him. She recruits him subjects, and they begin the study. The pace is quite quick, though not so much so that it feels rushed.

But there are moments, too, that sparkle and linger and make the series special. One in particular, near the end of the episode, in which Masters proposes a new element to the study to Johnson very matter-of-factly, and her charged reaction, is memorable. As is a physical fight between a man and a woman, a pivotal moment in which one characters goes from likeable but slightly annoying to detestable. And the pain Johnson feels at keeping secrets from Master’s wife, Libby (Caitlin FitzGerald, It’s Complicated). Each of these hold the promise that MASTERS OF SEX will be much more than just a provocative concept.

A primary theme of the show is the difference between males and females, and between individuals. In the first hour alone, we get a wide spectrum view of this comparison. We see a woman who thinks sex in a marriage should be romantic and lovely, and a man who considers it pretty much solely for making babies. We meet a woman who has sex with men for money, but prefers relations with women for pleasure. One man is promiscuous, seeing sex as a fun way to pass the time, and a woman feels the same. Another woman thinks sex should not even be discussed among civilized people.

Then there’s Virginia Johnson. She is fine with a friends-with-benefits arrangement, already having been married and having children. This is what we traditionally consider a male attitude, purely engaging in intercourse as a pleasurable, recreational activity. Yet, we also see how she cares about the friend she hooks up with, Dr. Ethan Haas (Nicholas D’Agosto, Heroes), on a non-romantic level. And we see her shock at being asked to engage in clinical sex for study, something she may consider, but it certainly isn’t her idea. She’s a complex bundle of competing desires in a single body.

This may just highlight how little men know about women’s drives, even in the modern era. As a man, I did not expect the complexity of the warring emotions Virginia has, and cannot imagine a having a similar mindset myself. Then again, sex is a very personal thing, everyone having their own views and preferences, and it may be more about the individual than the gender. I guess that’s what MASTERS OF SEX will explore.

Besides the science stuff, there is the tale of a crumbling marriage in the Masters household. William has a very low sperm count, but won’t share that information with Libby, even as she worries over her own inability to bear children. This is a sad picture, and while it informs the character, it also feels very cold, an unhappy portrait of matrimony. Refraining from reading up on the real-life people, I’m not sure where this is going, but assume it will tie into the larger fabric being unfolded.

Plus, MASTERS OF SEX is a period piece, with wonderfully designed sets and clothing. It’s not so long ago that it will feel unfamiliar, but it definitely has a dated style, even as the topic itself is still a relevant one. Society and tastes change, but people stay the same. At least, I hope the people involved in this show stay the same, because I am definitely setting a season pass on my TiVo.

MASTERS OF SEX premieres Sunday, September 29^th at 10 p.m. ET.

New Girl The Complete First Season new to DVD

Arguably last year's best new sitcom, FOX's New Girl The Complete First Season has arrived on DVD in a three disc set. All twenty-four episodes of the show's freshman run are included, along with special features.

As the New Girl "Pilot" begins, Jess (Zooey Deschanel) leaves her boyfriend. Homeless, she finds a place with three bachelors who share a spacious apartment. Coach (Damon Wayans Jr., Happy Endings), the jock, Nick (Jake Johnson), the slacker bartender, and Schmidt (Max Greenfield), the douche whose rude exterior masks a good heart. Coach is gone by episode two, but in his place, the guys' old friend Winston (Lamorne Morris), whose overseas professional basketball career has fizzled, comes home.

These guys are not boyfriend material for Jess, but after a rocky adjustment period, they all come to care very much about each other. They may not be lucky in love individually, but they all lend support where needed. Eventually, Schmidt even finds a steady girlfriend in Jess's friend CeCe (Hannah Simone).

Over the course of the season, these five well written, well acted, layered characters become like friends to those of us watching at home. They really have some neat chemistries, and while some of the plots may seem a bit stale for a sitcom, somehow they come across as fresh when played out by these particular personalities. It's hard to pinpoint exactly why this show works, other than to say that the particular combination of elements here just melds together really well. The brilliance is that the show stays simple, but remains incredibly funny by playing to everyone's strengths.

Among the best installments in this first year are:

• "Wedding" Jess goes as Nick's date to a wedding and tries to prevent him from sleeping with his crazy ex, Caroline (Mary Elizabeth Ellis, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia). This is the true start for Jess / Nick shipper fans, many viewers of the show who root for this pair to get together (they still haven't).
• "Naked" Winston tries to catch up on all the pop culture he missed, while Jess walks in on a naked Nick, shaking his confidence.
• "Thanksgiving" Jess tries to prepare a holiday dinner for her crush, Paul (Justin Long, Ed), which of course, works out perfectly. Just kidding. It's a disaster.
• "Bells" Winston joins Jess's handbell choir, and quickly proves to be better than her.
• "The Story of 50" Jesse tries to salvage Schmidt's 29th birthday party. She is not exactly in tune with Schmidt's tastes, or how to execute them.
• "Valentine's Day" Schmidt tries to help Jess get laid, Nick's relationship with Julia (Lizzy Caplan, Party Down) begins to crumble, and Winston attempts to woo Shelby (Kali Hawk), an ex that he wronged.
• "Jess and Julia" Spending time together is painful for Jess and Julia, who have lots of trouble finding common ground.
• "Control" The delicate ecosystem of the apartment is threatened when Jess encourages Schmidt to only do his share of the housework and Winston calls in Nick's debts.
• "See Ya" The relationships between the characters grow tenuous when one of them tries to move out, but a trip to the desert helps make things clear.

There are quite a few special features included. Commentary is offered on three episodes, including the "Pilot." Deleted and extended scenes are present, as well as some alternate jokes that didn't make it on screen. There is also a gag reel, and Lamorne's audition. Finally, a featurette called "Dress Like Jess" examines the lead characters very quirky style.

If you missed New Girl last year, this is a great way to finally catch up on the comedy. After all, your friends are probably watching, so why shouldn't you?

New Girl The Complete First Season is available now.

If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter! Check out my website, JeromeWetzel.com! First posted on TheTVKing

New Girl deals with another new girl

FOX's New Girl this week deals with the conflict between "Jess & Julia." Jess (Zooey Deschanel) asks Julia (Lizzy Caplan, Party Down, Cloverfield) for help getting out of a traffic ticket. Julia agrees, but isn't all that nice about it. So Jess betrays Julia's insecurities to Nick (Jake M. Johnson), whom Julia is dating. Meanwhile, Winston (Lamorne Morris) realizes he doesn't have, and never had, game with the ladies when meeting up with an old flame (Kali Hawk, Bridesmaids), and Schmidt (Max Greenfield) obsesses over his perpetually damp towel.

It's cool that New Girl finally dwells on female relationships. Much of the premise and early episodes involve Jess and the boys. Which is fine. But now viewers get to see Jess hanging out with Cece (Hannah Simone), their lesbian friend Sadie (June Diane Raphael, NTSF:SD:SUV), and even interacting with Julia! Yes, Cece is a main character, but she's been barely used, like Stephanie (Kellee Stewart) was at first in the excellent sitcom My Boys, certainly a forerunner to New Girl. Unlike The Big Bang Theory, New Girl decides to expand the other gender earlier than expected. Only time will tell if it's a wise move or not, but for now, it's welcome to see some other sides of Jess as she deals with her fellow women. It also takes a little of the shine off her alluring, adorkable ways, a good thing.

Girls can be catty, which seems to be a theme of "Jess & Julia." It's not without merit in the real world. However, watching girls acts like "Mean Girls" can also be very uncomfortable. The discussion Sadie, Cece, and Jess have about the games women play will hit a little close to home for many viewers. Some may laugh, and some may cringe. This reviewer tends to fall into the latter category. Why can't they just be straightforward and honest? It will certainly allow for more getting along, understanding, and an easier time of life, in general.

That being said, the resolution of "Jess & Julia" is very satisfying, as Julia is drawn into Jess's gal circle. That's not to say that every female must sit and gossip and crochet, or even that Julia enjoys such things. Hopefully no one will take it as a commentary against the career-driven, less emotionally open woman, who is a perfectly valid type that needs no excuses. The series likely isn't stating that. But it's also good to see Jess and Julia getting along given their mutual affection for Nick, who surely wants his roommate and girlfriend to be civil to each other. Jess and Julia both make effort, and thankfully, they seem to find a way to work things out.

Might Jess's clash with Julia point to some hidden feelings for Nick? Jess and Nick definitely have chemistry, but New Girl has yet to explore this in any meaningful way. It's early in the series, and no one really expects the two main characters to hook up yet. But a jealous streak would explain Jess's initial dislike of Julia, and if Julia picks up on it, her hostility back. Of course, the girls could just be having a personality conflict.

Lest one complain that New Girl is treating women unfairly in "Jess and Julia" and painting a better picture for men, one only needs to look as far as Winston's subplot to disprove that. It's refreshing that a series pokes fun at athletes getting girls just because they're athletes, and explores what happens when the playing stops. Too often egotistical jocks get away with more than they should, a serious societal imbalance, though admittedly, not one that applies to every sportsman. Being a lower level on this hierarchy, Winston gets a harsh dose of reality relatively early on in life. This is great, because it gives him time to change, which he tries to. Winston is a likeable character, and having him figure out how to treat women will only add to that positive image.

And Schmidt is just damn funny. The whole towel debacle is classic Schmidt. He is easily the most laugh-inducing character on New Girl, and there can never be enough humor at the expense of his neurosis. True, it is gross to learn he has been sharing an (unwashed) towel with Nick. But the hilarity of Schmidt's reaction throughout "Jess and Julia" is well worth that punch line. Wonderful!

     Watch New Girl Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET on FOX.

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Mr. Sunshine ends with "Ben and Vivian"

     ABC's Mr. Sunshine ended its freshman run last night with "Ben and Vivian," which I feel is probably its best episode yet. Things really flowed well, and chemistry was improved by the addition of a great guest star. While a decision about renewal has not yet been handed down, things aren't looking that great for the series. That's too bad, because like many new sitcoms, I think Mr. Sunshine just needs a little time to really work out the best road map for itself. Obviously, the cast is terrific, and the setting is fun and unique. If any new bubble show this year could use a second chance, I vote for this one.

     One change I would like to make, should Mr. Sunshine get a second season, is to make Lizzy Caplan (Party Down, True Blood) a series regular. Caplan guest stars this week as Vivian, Crystal's (Allison Janney) new assistant. She falls into bed with Ben (Matthew Perry) the night before she begins work, and once they realize they now inhabit the same office, begin a friends with benefits relationship. Ben falls for her, but she rejects his need of something more.
     Ben's growth through season one has focused on his ability to get in touch with emotions and forge a real relationship. When we meet him, Ben is in a similar benefits deal with Alice (Andrea Anders), but she breaks it off. I guess it's appropriate that, at the end of the season, his place in the pairing is reversed. The fact that he passes up Vivian's offer to continue the sex and forget about his plea for a real coupling shows that Ben is making progress. That is why, more than anything, the series should be renewed.

     I have to mention quickly that Andrea Anders is a constant delight. It's the little things, like the recurring bit where she opens Ben's door and catches the ball he has thrown, that set her apart. Everything she does just lights up the screen, and after numerous good sitcoms she's been involved in (Better Off Ted, The Class), it's time she is featured on a genuine hit.

     My argument for more Caplan doesn't stem just from her interaction with Ben. Her best bits are as she befriends Roman (Nate Torrence). Rejected once more by his mother, Crystal, Roman turns to Vivian to fill his needs. She does, enjoying her time spent with him. In fact, the only reason she even agrees to do anything with Ben outside of sex is so she can be close to Roman. While I did not sense a romantic attachment between the two, Caplan returning could lead to some fun jealousy stuff for Roman's crazy girlfriend, Heather (Portia Doubleday), a definite argument for bringing her back.

     Roman, like Ben, has grown. He is introduced as a bumbling idiot who just wants love and affection from his mother. Crystal continuously lets him down, and it comes to a head in the final episode. Crystal once more chooses another man over giving Roman attention, but instead of taking it, Roman snaps back. With Vivian and Ben in his corner, (and Heather, though we don't see her here) Roman has built up enough self-esteem to standup to her, declaring he is tired of hearing her say she's going to be a good mother; she needs to start acting like one.

     This could be a real turning point for Crystal, who has resisted growth, even though she frequently talks about it. I love Janney, and her character is a kooky fun mess. However, I do believe there are real emotions underneath her facade, and yet no one is willing to dig deep enough to get to them. Roman has the ability to be the first. Renew the show so we can see more of this great pairing!

     The one character I'm not crazy about is Alonzo (James Lesure). Generally, his purpose in being on the series seems to be to keep Alice and Ben apart until Ben can grow into a mature man worthy of Alice. I actually could see Ben and Alice not ending up together, but I expect the series will want to toy with the idea of the two as a couple again before they drop it.

     This week, Alonzo is actually given a story that has nothing to do with Alice. Dave the Mascot (David Pressman) tests Alonzo's legendary kindness and patience by taking over his office. He keeps pushing Alonzo's buttons, and when Dave loses Alonzo's zen garden rake down his costume, Alonzo snaps. Is the zen garden the only thing that keeps Alonzo sane? More can be explored about why he is the way he is, and what it takes to set him off. I want to see some dark secret come out. I'm not arguing to get rid of Alonzo, but give him more to do, and more depth.

 

     I won't say this is currently the best sitcom on television, or even in the top five. And I know that a fabulous cast does not guarantee a great series (I'm looking at you, Private Practice!). But there are plenty of flashes of greatness in season one of Mr. Sunshine, and I think a second season could potentially be much improved. Please give them the chance, ABC!

Article first published as TV Review: Mr. Sunshine - "Ben and Vivian" on Blogcritics.

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Jane Lynch Parties Down once more

     The second season finale of Starz's Party Down brought back first season character Constance Carmell (the spectacular Jane Lynch, Glee).  The episode was called "Constance Carmell Wedding", as every episode is named after the event they Party Down crew caters.  Constance was becoming the tenth wife of a rich producer (Alex Rocco), a man much older than her, carting around an oxygen tank, but still with a youthful, even lecherous, spirit.  Constance hires her old buddies to cater the event to make sure they attend, but spends more time catching up with them than socializing with the wedding guests.

     This episode was full of great moments, from Patrick Duffy (as himself) breaking in and trying to stop the wedding, to Kyle's (Ryan Hansen) tribute song to Constance being an Aryan anthem, making her new husband and his other Jewish friends very uncomfortable, and the groom dying ten feet down the road after the car left the wedding.  Don't worry.  He wrote a fake name on the prenup his daughter made them sign, so Constance is now loaded!  My favorite moment was when Lydia (Megan Mullally) tells Constance that she's her replacement, and Constance replies that she doesn't think she's replaceable.  And she isn't.  As much as Lydia is finally starting to grow on me, no one can really replace Jane Lynch in anything because she is truly one of a kind.

     Other plots came to a head, too, giving each of the main characters important changes.  Casey's (Lizzy Caplan) scene is cut from her Judd Apatow film, taking away the chance at a big break that she longed for.  Henry (Adam Scott) decides to come out of acting retirement and go for a big role, although is it for his own sake, or to prove himself to Casey?  Roman (Martin Starr) gets incredibly high and writes an opus of a screenplay on toilet paper.  Ron (Ken Marino, who also directed this episode) declares his love for the engage daughter of his boss, Danielle (June Diane Raphael).  And Lydia makes the moves on Danielle's soon-to-be-divorced father, Bolus Lugozshe (Michael Hitchcock, United States of Tara).

     The brilliant comedy co-created by Rob Thomas (Veronica Mars) has not yet been picked up for a third season, and while I sincerely hope that it gets renewed, it will face some challenges if it does.  For one thing, Adam Scott will be a series regular on Parks and Recreation next year, so his character of Henry will appear in no more than three episodes and will become the second principal that has to be replaced.  However, even with a reduced Scott quotient, I would very much miss the show if it went away.

     Party Down airs on Starz, which is a premium subscription channel.  If you have Netflix and a TiVo, XBox, etc. with streaming connection, both seasons, including last night's finale, are available to watch instantly.  If you don't subscribe to Netflix or Starz, I highly recommend signing up for Netflix immediately and at least take the free month trial and watch Party Down.

Party Down parties on

     Starz's comedy from Rob Thomas (the Veronica Mars creator, not the rocker), Party Down, has returned for a second season as of this weekend.  If you do not have Starz, you can stream the show if you have a Netflix subscription, or find it in other sources online.  The premiere was called "Jackal Onassis Backstage Party", as the catering crew was working a concert, backstage.  Almost the entire cast from season one returned, saved for Jane Lynch, who is now starring on Glee, and was missed.  Word is, Lynch will return in June when the team tackles her wedding.  But she has been replaced by Megan Mullally (Will & Grace), who did a fine job.

     Things have changed since season one.  For one thing, Henry (Adam Scott, who will soon be joining Parks and Recreation) has taken over as team leader, and seems just as committed to running the business as his predecessor.  Gone are Henry's slacker ways, as well as his attitude that the job is temporary.  Former boss Ron (Ken Marino, Reaper, Veronica Mars) has seen his dream crash and burn, and by the end of the first new episode, is seeking employment once again from the catering business.  Will he be working under Henry, or will they be fighting it out for head honcho?

     Casey (Lizzy Caplan, True Blood, Cloverfield) has also returned, fresh from spending most of the past year doing her stand up comedy on a cruise ship.  The failed relationship between her and Henry made her first job back awkward, to say the least, and will surely continue to be so.  This is made worse by the fact that Henry is now dating uber-tough competitor Uda (Kristen Bell, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Heroes, who will be returning later this season).

     Kyle (Ryan Hansen, Veronica Mars) seems a little cost without Constance (Lynch), but perhaps there was just too much going on already in this episode, and so he was the one slighted.  Roman (Martin Starr, Freaks and Geeks) was not, however.  He got to dress up as the Satan-worshipping musician whose party there were catering.  And Kyle still got girls more easily than Roman, who only got Ron's semi-girlfriend.  The rocker himself, who wanted to be a normal guy for one night, hence the hijinks with Roman, was played by Jimmi Simpson (It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia), and was very funny.

     If you haven't seen Party Down, it's worth checking out.  The complete first season is still available on Netflix streaming, so that's how I recommend getting to the episodes, rather than shelling out for a DVD or a network that you may not watch otherwise.  In Lexington, both Netflix and Starz are available.  Call your cable company or subscribe at netflix.com.