The TV Diaries Archives
Here's a log of the changes and comments that I have written during past updates of the web site.
October 28, 2001
It seems that the world has gone screwball. First, a truck driver plunges into the side of the California State Capitol Building. Then, there are rolling blackouts, sending shivers in dot.com homes across the same state. We are even getting a new president.
And then, there’s the news about the television strike.
What’s that? Oh yes, that rumor. With the world falling apart there’s some real news that really sends a new alert signal across the hearts and minds of the viewing public. Yes, Virginia, the Writer’s Guild of America and the Screen Actor’s Guild are plotting to boycott the networks for their own brand of Western justice.
Never to fear, kiddos. The studios are one step ahead of those rebels who want to send a message to America that they're discriminated and underpaid. They are cranking out reality and game shows for the latter half of season. So, if you've got a jones for Survivor 2 and Who’s the Mole? , then you’ll get more where that’s coming from. The word is that reality and game shows are cheaper to make. And since the real one-two punch will come from sitcoms and dramas (which require real stars, writers and producers), the networks are trying to whack a whip onto their staffs to produce as many episodes as they can before the fated event will happen. For that reason alone, the networks are unconcerned about the strike.
At least they appear unconcerned.
What to think about this? It’s time for the audience to put their two cents in. If you’re concerned about keeping your quality television shows on the air, then write the networks and tell them how you feel regarding the shows you want to watch. Well, heck. It worked for La Femme Nikita and Roswell. It seems that the networks nonchalantly and petulantly throw viewer mail into the trash or line their birdcages with it. But, with enough angry audience members writing and e-mailing in their concerns, then something will have to be done to alleviate and negotiate with both unions to continuing producing the type of television that we expect and should want.
So do your part. Put your two cents in.
Speakingof that, there’s a chock full of new essays for your perusal. I’ve been a busy,little bee. Just remember not to throw any shoes at your computer screen too hard.
December17,2000
We’ve made it to the first half of the Fall Season. After being riveted to the November sweeps, things are cooling down a bit. However, it’s great to note that there are still some shows that still air new episodes—which is important. One always has to keep entertained during the busy holidays!
Don’t fret, dearies. We all have to look forward to January. This is the time where the networks put their mid-season replacements in lieu of the shows that have bombed. Unfortunately, some of the casualties so far are Deadline and The Michael Richards Show.
There have been some successes so far. Hype and Ed are devastatingly funny. And Gilmore Girls, Grosse Point, DAG and Boston Public make the A-list.
However, if you really wanted to get the axe out, Mr. Network execs, why not do a hatchet job on Nikki, Cursed, those yucky Survivor clones and game shows? I know I won’t get much luck out to get the chance for the network execs to jump up and down on those bad boys. Unfortunately, there’s more to come in January. Ewwwwwwww.
The returning favorites aren’t bad as well. Once and Again, Will and Grace, Law and Order: Special Victims Unit and Charmed have been deliciously delightful. They continue to keep me in front of the television set—not without throwing some shoes at the screen some of the time! However, each of these shows have strong story-lines and very interesting characters who really have a feel for the pulse on society—to a point.
But as always, I’ve got a bone to pick with Popular. What’s the deal? Although in the past critics skewered the show about its over-the-top hallucinatory interludes, at least the producers toned those antics down. Some of its frothy, delusional numbers are gone. Now, the new trend on the show is to take a much more calm, sober look at the problems of each of the characters. But it isn’t acne or who’s going to take who to the Homecoming dance. Oh, no. Instead, it’s just one melodrama after another to the point of overkill. Note to self: If I have to watch another sordid display of this show trying to be “serious”, I might as well take stock in a tissue company. Believe me when the credits roll week after week, there isn’t a dry eye left in the living room. Lighten up, already!
Finally, there’s some new essays on the “Sit At My Table” page. So, stop on by for some “special orders” on the antics of television. Hoo Hee. With these new ones, I think I’ve earned my devil horns this week!
December 6,2000
All Hail to the two best hours of television: The Fugitive and Dark Angel! In the past, I’ve clocked in a heck of a lot of hours in front of the tube, but these two shows have kept me in my seat! There are two genres of shows that really interest me: cop and science fiction programs. And despite Law and Order, re-runs of Hunter and even back episodes of 21 Jump Street and Alien Nation, it is the grittiness of both of these series that make me hoot and holler in front of the screen and feel a sense of tension as each of the main characters get out of one dilemma into another. Both series are pretty retro in their make-up, but they use a lot of suspense that keeps the action rolling. And who would’ve thought it—two big time movie producers and directors have decided to bet their odds on the small screen. Thank goodness they’ve done a good job…
Speaking about a major revamping, there’s The X-files. Although I wasn’t too pleased with Mulder being gone and Doggett taking the place of Scully’s partner, I think that it’s been going great, so far. Let’s get to brass tacks. No one will EVER replace the chemistry between Scully and Mulder. However, when nay-sayers were pronouncing the franchise dead in its tracks—think again. The episodes are deftly induced with a lil’ bit o’ octane.
But don’t count out WB favorites Dawson’s Creek, Felicity and Roswell. The epitome of the "teen set" of television (along with Popular), they have been exploring deeper story-lines as well. Sure, they’re about revolving partners and out-of-this world encounters, but do I have to say it? They’ve been down-right fascinating. The prize has to go to Roswell. Last season, the episodes pretty much had to do with romance and that was fine. But now, there’s destiny involved. To see each of the characters grapple with this sense of destiny is injected with pathos, tragedy and humor. But poor Liz and Max. To have so much invested in one another…only to be set back by lil’ ol Tess…and the ‘Skins…
Even though the fictional world has its tensions and interest, what about the real-life drama this side of The West Wing? On election night, myself and a whole lot of viewers were glued to the screen watching the returns come in last month. And I had not been so filled with angst since watching the Final Four during March Madness. Although now, it’s leaning toward resolution, it is nice to know that television isn’t junk (unlike what Mr. Postman says in his book, Amusing Ourselves to Death). By watching the interviews, court cases and speeches by both candidates, I learned that television does educate and enlighten in every sense of the word. But does television elicit democracy? Well…that’s up to the brain trust—interactive and active viewers of the "glowing box"! If you have any comments about watching the election, don’t just sit there—send your essays in!
By the way, there are some new essays on the "Sit At My Table". Even though it seems like I’ve been a major slacker, it doesn’t mean that I wasn’t thinking about television!!!!
January 24, 2000
On Wednesday, Michael J. Fox-- who acted onFamily Ties and is now on ABC'sSpin City--decided to retire from the show at the end of this season. His plans are to concentrate on finding a cure for Parkinson's disease and to participate in working behind the scenes. With this news, a gaping hole has been opened in prime time television. Fox will be sorely missed. Even though his characters on television (and film) have the penchant for seriousness, his comedic timing made them empathetic and luminous. You could never forget any character that he portrayed on both the big and small screen. Because of that fact, he makes a lasting impression that the history of television programming could never erase. Hope he comes back soon.
I guess I have to eat my words. The need to laugh isn't over. When critics and industry heads proclaimed the sitcom dead, the ratings from last week's Malcolm in the Middle proved otherwise. Another 23 million viewers tuned in to watch the show according to the January 18, 2000 Daily Variety. In fact, Malcolm obtained FOX's best ratings for the 8:30 time slot since 1992. The show ranks right up there with Who Wants to be a Millionaire as ratings winners for this season so far. Because of Malcolm's ability to make people laugh and think of their own families, there will be the onslaught of copy-cat shows. Television programming will not only be interactive, but will continue to display more over-the-top antics to jar someone's funny bone. Expect this trend to come soon. And would you believe Malcolm was turned down by UPN? I bet those execs are kicking themselves right now. As for the WB, the network has reached its lowest ratings this season. It even ranks lower than UPN. Audience viewership has dropped 35 percent for the 18-49 age range. However, all that might change when February sweeps come. From what's been hyped on television, it's going to be a month of an all-out battle.
Besides all this television news, I've got to indulge in talking about Roswell. It really was wonderful this week. It seems the program has taken the "tortured couple theme" to the nth degree. While Max agonized over his decision to part with Liz, Michael needs to get a good dose of emotion--when it comes to Maria. However, the entire main plot of Isabel and Max dealing with their mother stole the show. Although Max has never really been depicted as someone who would get really upset, this show really brought out the emotional range of his character. Who would ever think that he would ever get that affected over his identity…and Liz's attentions toward Kyle? Do you think he made a mistake in breaking things off with Liz? Hmmmmm. The mind wonders…
Last but not least, there are some new things to kvetch about in the "Sit at My Table" page. And of course, essays, reviews and fan fiction are still needed and welcomed. One of the goals of this site is to include a lot of diverse ideas about television. Would you like to try?
New look, new essays, new information. In the world of television, there has been some exciting changes that will profoundly affect the way we view "the glowing box". First of all, there's the steady rise of ETV, or "Enhanced Television". By combining television with the Internet, things are even more easier to not only make your voice known, but to say your peace while watching your shows concurrently. Secondly, you've got to notice that the new flavor of the month in television has to be game shows!!! Although I've talked about them in an essay under the "Sit At My Table" section, what I will say here is that these shows present interesting issues to consider. With the world becoming more "user friendly" due to the influences of the World Wide Web, are shows increasing becoming interactive to keep viewers? Hmmmmmm.
Speaking of seeking your average viewer…well if you're either a woman or a member of Generation Y (or the Net Generation some critics like to call them), the networks want you. Shows are now being fashioned to suit the interests of these two groups. Even though sitcoms are on their way out, dramas--especially if they have to deal with feminine-related or teen issues--are really hot. And by the looks of the mid-season replacements, more are coming your way.
When it comes to the fare coming out later this month and in February, two shows really look interesting: Malcolm in the Middle (which I have written a review ) and The Others (which seems like a mix of The X-files and the old seasons of Profiler). Not to mention…both new episodes of Daria and Futurama coming too during the same month. Spectacular!
And of course, essays, reviews and fan fiction on any show are still being sought to be included on this web site. Come on. What's stopping you?
December 6, 1999
With the end of November sweeps, I thought that television would begin December with a hush. Not on the least. There were notable examples throughout the week that proved that the TV fare this past week would not be ignored. Futurama presented an thought-provoking twist on co-depency and loyalty. Zapp Brannigan's court marshall and his subsequent take-over of the Planet Express ship reveals that his tendencies for relentless sadism hit an all time high. Despite the fact that the ship's crew underwhelmingly defends Leela, the past captain in charge, Zapp's tendencies halt the quiet revolution of his much put-upon first mate, Kif. I was unduly overjoyed when Kif expresses for the first time his own decisions apart from Zapp. However, those feelings were quickly extinguished when Zapp puts the space suit on Kif (a child's space suit [!]) and shuttles him away. Uh…do they still have therapy in the year 3000?
On The Practice, I found it unduly interesting as the plot shifted from discussions on child bearing to discussions of rage--in and out of the courtroom. Moesha was notable because it dealt with birth control (boy, did she have to explain her way out of that one).On Buffy, just when I thought that Angel would be the only one sporting a smile on his face, there's Spike ending up the same away--so to speak. Too bad that the T.A. in hot pursuit of the Slayer had to step in line right behind the other guys bothered and bewitched by the titled character. Roswell didn't disappoint me in the least. In my last rant, I had written how intoxicating the romance between Liz and Max was. In last week's episode, I wasn't dismayed. It amply dealt with the same ideas of conspiracy and trust…with a little heat and spice thrown in. Ultimately, it marks a new point for Liz and Max in terms of acknowledging their feelings for each other. I wonder now how the other characters are going to react to their finally coming together. Dawson's Creek didn't disappoint either. Although the main gist of the story had to do with the constant "musical chairs" being played out in utter moroseness and complication by Dawson, Joey, Jen and Pacey, their hijinks hid the real and more subtle story line that has been taking place since last year. Threatened to be buried by the bodice-ripping antics of those fascinating four, the plot-line of Jack's continual bout with coming out continues its sensitive and melancholy power. Jack begins to learn that acknowledging his sexuality is much more than a coffee date and sibling sympathy.
However, there were a couple of surprises this week that I didn't expect. As a long-time television watcher, you can almost smell the plot lines a mile away. But…of course, it doesn't mean that I am willing to give the benefit of the doubt to two shows that for different reasons I watch from time to time: Popular and Action! The things that occurred within these two shows will be thought about from time and eternity.
On Popular, a pregnancy scare and the revelation of the secret relationship of one character's mother gets buried by the more outrageous stabs of music video-like interplay. However, I was still blown away. Yep, I had to retch when two of the "popular" girls did a bizarre fetishistic "appreciation" of Gwynneth Paltrow by sampling her wardrobe (right down to kidnapping a supposed "servant" and sniffing one of "Paltrow's shoes"). I felt that if they took the more strange sequences devoted to vanity out and concentrated on the much stronger sensitivities of the characters…this program might be more of a winner.
However, a bow must be made to Action!--the show taking its plot from the inside machinations of Hollywood. Jeez….just when Peter Dragon was getting interesting…he seems to figure into the show's dubious climax of finality. What shocked me about this episode was the last scene. I mean, I am still flabbergasted. It starts with a tirade. Peter Dragon is shouting at the top of his lungs and telling off his pathetic and self-indulgent stars and crew off. And then, the scene begins to get blurry (which might seem suspiciously shot by a fish-eye lens). The next thing you know, Peter is in the back of the ambulence being brought back to life by two paramedics. But there's no drama to the scene. Just utter shock. In one of the most perplexing endings for a television show in a long while, the paramedics put the sheet over Peter Dragon and call it a night. And that was that. A bang and a whimper. Stunning.
Have anything to say about your interest in TV? Put your two cents in by going to the submissions page.
November 29, 1999
And I thought the week of Thanksgiving would be unscathed when you turned to the world of television. Except, I wasn't disappointed. You see, in the realm of media make-believe, they had to create their conception of a sit-down, family dinner on one of the most important days of the year. And what an event it was. Family dysfunction and holiday obstacles proved to be the plot twists of the day. Would you taste that "surprise triffle" Rachel made throughout the entire episode of Friends? Would you sit down and watch Monica and Ross bicker? How about being privvy to that entire affair between Frasier and Lillith on Frasier? For those of you that have been following them since the Cheers days, this might as well be a real treat. But that wasn't all. Would you even invite your in-laws to Thanksgiving dinner after Everyone Loves Raymond? And would you even feel that cutting the bird was the most safe event when it came down to revealing secrets on Will and Grace ? Didn't it just want to make you watch the real wars on television--i.e., the rivalries in basketball (the Great Alaska Shootout and the Pre-NIT tournament) and football (Ole Miss and Miss. St., not to mention Texas A & M, University of Texas, Nebraska and Colorado?).
However, there were stellar moments this week that would make you want to tell your relatives no and sit alone in the peace of your house having that microwaved, ready-made Turkey Pot Pie in front of the "glowing box". On Dawson's Creek, family bickering is raised to a new level when Jen's mother returns and Dawson (*gasp*) finally becomes unglued and tells his parents a thing or two. Why does this stand out? Jen returns back to her old ways. And Dawson--who is always considered the most even-tempered, cowardly (he turned down Eve--mind you) character ever to hit television--finally takes a stand upon his parents' divorce!!!!! That was TV to tune into. It's not everyday that you see Dawson finally show some emotion. The second surprise is Now and Again. Now, this episode didn't have anything to do with Thanksgiving, per se. But, it was fascinating nevertheless due to the fact that the show revealed a lot of things without hitting the viewer over the head with it. What fascinated me was Michael. Because Michael continues to carry the thoughts of his old body, his emotions regarding his marriage and the attraction to a new doctor hired to make him "forget" the past slowly reveal the sinister and repressive nature of the government agency he works for. It really puts a new spin on laissez faire, doesn't it?
Oh…and there's one more thing. Submissions are still sorely needed. Want to throw your hat into the ring?
November 22, 1999
It's been an interesting week in terms of television. If you've watched Seventh Heaven, you found that even in the most perfect of families have their "problem children". Or, if you watched Once and Again, peer pressure rules the roost, yet again. How about that "mind controlling" thing on Martial Law? That was pretty wild as well. But then again, I think the episode that pretty much took the cake was from Dawson's Creek. It seems that The Blair Witch Project (1999) has found a home not only on the big screen and video, but of course…on television. So far, I have seen three homages to the movie. First of all, on the Cartoon Network, there's the Scooby Doo Project . And then, there's the reference on Charmed two weeks ago where an evil witch…presumes to be the fabled witch in the woods (and then massacres her prey. Go figure). And now, those intrepid, teen characters we all seem to love (Joey, Dawson, Pacey and Jen) find themselves lost in the woods and into the realm of popular culture. Too bad that the heavy petting was more spooky than the latest "project" Dawson was trying to shoot. Sigh….I'll guess I'll just turn my attention to that film on Y2K and be even more frightened…by the over the top performances.
November 16, 1999
I added a new section to the web site called Tv-Astrology. What constructs your "inner television watcher"? Head on over to this section to read your astrological profile!
And of course, I am still seeking submissions for any of the sections.
November 15, 1999
*mission statement*
My name is Ceci M.. And I am a television fan. During my free time, I always relax in front of what some people would call "the idiot box". At first, I saw this as a form of entertainment. But as I continued watching and compiling a longer list of favorite television shows, I began to realize more and more aspects of what makes "the boob tube" interesting as well as interactive. It takes a lot of work to develop a television show. Although some of the programs aren’t entirely altruistic in trying to entertain audiences, there are some that involve a lot of smart writing that keeps people coming back for more.
In my own interest, I find myself coming back to such favorites as Daria, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Once and Again, Futurama and Law and Order. And there’s a reason. Each program has something to say about the social condition in one way or another. And it is that reason why I became a fan. That drove me to post my messages from one place to another. And as I began to think about what I watch, I discovered that there were a whole lot of other people out there that also felt as deeply about television as I do—even to the point of talking endlessly about their favorite shows.
That is why I wanted to do a web site devoted to talking about television. Reviewing episodes. Writing Fan fiction. Nit-picking certain aspects of the show. There’s something here for everyone. Constant conversation and enlightenment 24-7. I wanted to create a space where people can air out everything on their mind about what fascinates them about the "boob tube" and really use the shows to discuss the issues that are important to them. Heck, I have a lot of issues that I like to follow when ever I tune into a particular program. And I know that you do too. Contributions are always welcome.