PoochJD
Distinguished Member
Greetings Everyone!
Its almost 2006, and we have a superb start to the New Year, with lots of worthwhile shows for you to all enjoy. Whether youre into crime thrillers, British legal drama, US comedy or science fiction, theres almost certain to be something for you to salivate over. We also have some old favourites making a much-loved welcome return to UK television. Id highly recommend that you start stock-piling plenty of blank VHS tapes, DVDs, and/or making space on your Sky+/DVD Recorder hard drives, as I suspect therell be lots of people wanting to record plenty of my suggestions! And so, without further ado, lets get straight on with the update!
Saturday 31st December 2005
FILM: The Straight Story (PG) 3:50-5:55pm
David Lynchs most mainstream movie to date, and probably his most personal. The unlikely tale of an 80-year old Iowa farmer, who sets off on a lawnmower, to travel to see his dying brother in Wisconsin. Its quite unlike anything youve ever seen, and yet its quite superb and poignant too. Contains some mild bad language, and some upsetting scenes. Showing uncut and in Widescreen. (Channel 4)
American Film Institutes 100 Years, 100 Movie Quotes 9:00-11:30pm
Its another one of those (usually) dire Top 100 lists, but this one is very, very different. As the title implies, this deals with movie catchphrases; famous quotes and deadly dialogue. From Casblanca, Apocalypse Now and Star Wars through to James Bond, Terminator 2 and many more. Will undoubtedly contain adult material and strong language. (Channel 4)
Frasiers Night Of Reflection 9:00pm-3:00am
Back-to-back episodes of some of the best of all 11 Seasons of the hit US comedy Frasier. (Paramount Comedy Channel 2)
FILM: Childs Play (15) 9:55-11:40pm
For the first time on UK terrestrial TV, we get to see the full, uncut, original uncensored version of this nifty and clever little horror movie, about devil-doll Chucky. In 1987, the BBFC edited the movie, to remove some of the strongest scenes of violence. Even now, it has been almost impossible to see what was cut, and the UK DVD is still the same censored print. Now though, its a TV station that lets us all see, what the BBFC wont. When serial-killer Charles Lee Ray, (a superbly eerie performance from Brad Dourif), performs a soul-transference spell, into a toy doll, just seconds before his death, the doll is left, unwittingly to be bought by anyone, seeking the popular toy. So when Andy Barclay is given the doll, by his mother, little do they know that what they have is not just a talking doll, but is far more evil than anything they imagined. Although followed by several inferior sequels, the original movie is a genuine classic, and several scenes will make you jump. (The ending, is a killer!) It also shows what movie-makers can do when their special effects knowledge is really put to good use. Contains some strong language, some graphic violence, and scenes that may disturb. Showing uncut and in Widescreen. Repeated at 12:40am, the same evening. (ITV4)
FILM: Comic Aid (18) 11:00pm-1:00am
A whole host of leading British stand-up comics, including Stephen Fry, Eddie Izzard, Simon Pegg, Jo Brand, Jack Dee and Julian Clary perform a one-off showcase of their best material, in aid of last years Comic Relief charity fundraiser. The show contains lots of adult material, including sexual swear words and explicit language, and is not recommended for the easily offended. Showing in Widescreen. (BBC3)
Sunday 1st January 2006 HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYONE!
FILM: Gone With The Wind (PG) 12:45-4;15pm
Its long, its flawed and it has some less-than-PC moments, but its still one of the most interesting films ever made. Need a chance to get over last nights festivities? You could do far worse, than sitting back for the next three-and-a-half hours, and wallowing in this 1939 movie classic. Showing uncut, and in the original 4:3 Aspect ratio. (BBC2)
FILM: Withnail And I (15) Midnight-2:00am
Richard E Grant and Paul McGann star as the titular characters, and lead us into their own, very distorted, and alcohol-fuelled world. Cult comedy, with strong language. Showing uncut and in Widescreen. (Channel 4)
Monday 2nd
Quantum Leap 10:35-11:30am
Yes! The adventures of Sam Beckett and his holographic advisor Al Calavicci, return to UK screens once more! Weekdays on ITV3 just got much better, with the chance to see the entire 5-Season run of this award-winning drama, being shown back-to-back, every weekday, at approximately the same time, starting with the first half of the Pilot Movie Genesis (concluding tomorrow). Each episode is also repeated at about 5:55pm. Enjoy! (ITV3)
FILM: Anna And The King (12) 2;15-4:30pm
Evocative and intelligent movie, that fans of both period dramas and Hong Kong actor Chow Yun-Fat should enjoy. King Monghut (Yun-Fat) hires the recently-widowed Englishwoman Anna Leonowen (Jodie Foster), to tutor his son. However, Leonowen soon takes more interest in political and personal matters, that threaten both Siam and England, to the verge of an all-out war. Based on a true-story, and surprisingly enjoyable. Edited for minor scenes of strong violence. Showing in Widescreen. (BBC1)
Third Watch 7:00-8:00pm
Finally! UK fans who have been so utterly screwed-about by Channel 4s abominable transmission of this brilliant US drama, dealing with all three emergency services Fire, Police and Ambulance can relax, as FX have brought the rights to air Seasons 1-4. (Five and six are likely to follow, by the end of the year!) This is the first chance, that UK viewers will be able to see the show uncut and uncensored, as well as in the correct, chronological order! If youve never seen it, then I cant recommend it highly enough! A truly outstanding blend of drama, comedy and action, amongst the members of the Third Watch (the crews who work the 2pm-10pm shift) at the 55th Precinct in New York. Airing every weekday evening, at 7pm only, with (potentially) edited weekend repeats on Saturdays and Sundays, during the daytime. Check out the opening five minutes of the Pilot Episode Welcome To Camelot, as it sets the scene and tone of the show beautifully. (FX270).
The Thick Of It 10:00-10:30pm
If you havent already caught this show on BBC4, then its a must-see. Dark, foul-mouthed and incredibly complex, multi-layered scenarios are what make this political satire about the day-to-day problems that a Machiavellian Prime Minister and his spin-doctors endure, so absorbing. Chris Langham plays PM Hugh Abbot, with Peter Capaldi as his spin-doctor, Malcolm Tucker. BBC2 are actually airing Series 1 and 2 back-to-back, as each Series lasted just three episodes each. Catch all six episodes, over the next six weeks. I should warn viewers, that the series has unrelentingly explicit language throughout each episode, including extensive use of the f-word, the mf-word, and the c-word, too! Showing uncut and in Widescreen. (BBC2)
FILM: Stir Crazy (15) 10:00pm-12:10am
After Richard Pryors recent death from Multiple Sclerosis, ITv3 pay a fitting tribute by repeating probably the finest movie he made, outside of his own stand-up shows. Its full of horrendous language, with plenty of non-PC humour, and its a tad dated, but its still one of the funniest movies since Monty Pythons Life Of Brian. The jokes, keep on coming, and I defy anyone not to be in tears, by the end. Showing uncut and in Widescreen. (ITV3)
SCHEDULE CHANGE: Without A Trace 11:55pm-12:55am
After sticking with this enjoyable US drama in a regular 10pm Monday night slot, before reverting to double-bills over the past couple of weeks, it seems yet another US drama is going to die a miserable death on Channel 4, by being shunted to a post-Midnight timeslot. This is the penultimate episode of Season 3. Why, oh why, do they keep doing this?! (Channel 4)
Tuesday 3rd
Richard Hammonds Five OClock Show 5:00-6:00pm
Richard Hammond, the young, short cute one from Top Gear, hosts alongside Mel Giedoryc, a new, daily weekday chat-show. If you like Hammond, then I suspect that this show will do far better than ITV are expecting. (ITV1)
Stargate SG-1: True Science 8:00-9:00pm
A look at how some of the science-fiction concepts seen in the long-running futuristic drama, are actually based on real-life scenarios and events. (Sky 1)
Sweeney Todd 9:00-10:30pm
One-off BBC drama adaptation of the infamous man, lovingly known as the Demon Barber of Fleet Street! British actor Ray Winstone plays Sweeney Todd, and the BBC has already stated that this is not your regular, saintly period drama adaption, so expect plenty of violence, gore and some sexual material, too. (BBC1)
Nine Days That Shook London 10:00-11:15pm
Documentary exploring nine days from Summer 2005, when London became the centre of attention for the entire world. The UK was on a high, when Live 8 made world news, and helped bring the suffering of the Third World, to the attention of the politicians attending the G8 Summit in Scotland. Then, the news came that we had won the Olympic bid, tearing it from the hand of Paris, and our nation celebrated. Yet just 12 hours later, the very same nation awoke to a disaster that we never expected to occur, when four suicide bombers brought the capital to a halt! What happened over those nine days, before, during and after those events, is explored in this harrowing, but thought-provoking film. Contains some strong language, and uncompromisingly distressing scenes, as well as news footage from the events. (BBC2)
FILM: Wasabi (15) 11:00pm-12:50am
Rare showing for this unusual movie, about a French police officer, (played by Jean Reno, of Leon, La Femme Nikita and Ronin fame), who returns to his old homeland in Japan, and discovers a daughter he never knew existed. Contains some violence, and some bad language. Showing uncut and in Widescreen. Some English subtitles. (ITV3)
Wednesday 4th
Battlestar Galactica: The Lowdown 8:00-9:00pm
Behind-the-scenes of Season 2 of this critically-acclaimed US Sci-Fi show, before the Season 2 Premier next Tuesday evening! Meet the cast and crew, and get the latest info on what viewers can expect. Showing in Widescreen. (Sky 1)
Rome 9:00-10:30pm
The final two episodes, are being shown in one, feature-length movie, and its time for Caesar to get is comeuppance. Strong language, graphic violence and scenes of a frank and adult nature all come together, in the final 90 minutes of this controversial US show! Showing uncut and in Widescreen. (BBC2)
Derren Brown: The Heist 9:00-10:00pm
Love him or loathe him, theres always something special about watching this mans crazy stunts, tricks and illusions. Tonight sees him try to pull off one of his most memorable stunts ever! His task to convince eight, ordinary middle-managers to give-up their jobs, and plan and execute a £100,000 armed robbery, in the form of a bank heist! ;eek: Will it work, or will it fail? Find out tonight. (Channel 4)
Thursday 5th
FILM: Tim (PG) 1:45-3:30pm
Mel Gibsons earliest film role, was in this romantic drama, based on Colleen McCulloughs novel of the same name. Gibson plays Tim, a young man who has a low IQ, and is unable to function around normal people. A middle-aged woman, Piper Laurie, decides she wants to take him under her wing, but their relationship becomes more than either of them expected. Showing un Widescreen. (BBC2)
Richard Hammonds Five OClock Show 5:00-6:00pm
I know Ive already mentioned this show, but tonights should be worth-watching more than ever. Richard looks at which UK companies have the worst music for putting people on-hold too, and also investigates bras for men! (ITV1)
Charmed 8:00-9:00pm
Theyre back! The Hallowell ladies return for the all-new 8th Season, with the first of 22 new episodes, never before seen in the UK. Meet new characters, good and bad, and even one or two old foes as well. (LivingTV)
ER 9:00-10:00pm
The start of Season 12, and problems continue between Luka, Sam and her son. Digital viewers can see the show a week earlier than non-digital viewers. But dont panic, because the rest of us can enjoy the same episode next Wednesday night at 9:00pm on Channel 4, and sans DOG too! (E4)
The Comeback 9:30-10:00pm
All-new US comedy, starring Lisa Kudrow (Phoebe, from Friends). Kudrow plays Valerie Cherish, an ageing, has-been TV actress of whom Hollywood is no longer bothered with. However, Cherish still has bills to pay, and a lifestyle to uphold, so she signs-up to star in a new Reality TV show that will feature her attempts at trying to get a new job on TV. But little does she know, of just how bad things will get with a TV crew following her 24/7! The show has received many positive reviews in the US, mainly because the show isnt squeaky clean, and shows Kudrow to be as much an actress, as someone willing to spoof her own life, after Friends ended a couple of years back. This is likely to be a big hit in the US, even for those of you who hated Friends, as its all about the back-stabbing behind the scenes business, and not the glossy, sentimental stuff that we actually see on sitcom screens. (LivingTV)
Boston Legal 10:00-11:00pm
Its back, with the start of Season 2, and the offices of the Massachusetts law firm is awash with several new cast members, including Rene Auberjonois (better known as the shape-changing Star Trek Security Officer Odo from Deep Space 9), Candice Bergen, and Julie Bowen (replacing Rhona Mitra and Monica Potter who left in Season 1, though not in the same roles)! (LivingTV)
Ricky Gervais Meets Larry David 10:15-11:20pm
After a long wait, the TV special finally makes its UK debut. UK comedian Gervais interviews US comedian Larry David (Curb Your Enthusiasm), in this special documentary, where each chats about their life in comedy. (Channel 4)
Ricky Gervais: Politics (18) 11:20pm-12:55am
Uncut showing of the second stand-up tour that Gervais took around the UK in 2004/2005. Contains strong language and adult material throughout. Showing in Widescreen. (Channel 4)
Karen Sisco 12:05-12:45am
Originally shown on ITV3, when it first launched, here is the first chance for non-digital viewers to see this short-lived US drama, which is a spin-off from the hit movie Out Of Sight (starring George Clooney), with Carla Gugino taking over Jennifer Lopezs role. A ballsy US Marshall, based in Miami, is on the hunt for fugitives, but finds things far tougher than she expects, when she is shot on her first day back! The show only lasted 10 episodes in total. N.B. The scheduled time is likely to be altered, as it seems too short for the episode. Expect the show, therefore, to end no earlier than 12;55am! (ITV1)
Friday 6th
FILM: The China Syndrome (PG) 1:10-3:30pm
Chilling political thriller, with Michael Douglas, Jane Fonda and Jack Lemmon. A TV reporter, Fonda, is reporting from a nuclear power plant, when a catastrophic accident sends the whole place into a critical meltdown. Her bosses wants to keep her on-air, because of the exclusivity of the story she is now involved in, whilst she fights to keep her own life in the impending doom. Will her friend, mentor, and fellow reporter, (Douglas), back at the TV station, be able to help her? Contains some harrowing scenes, and mild bad language. Superb and chilling insight into the lengths that the news media are willing to go, for a big break! Showing uncut and in Widescreen. (Channel 4)
Soapstar Superstar 8:30-10:30pm
As we begin 2006, it seems that ITV1 is determined to start the year as they mean to go on, and that means plenty of low-brow, cheap TV junk! For the next nine consecutive days I kid you not two hours of prime-time national TV is going to be devoted to finding if soap stars from the past and present, can be turned into superstars who can sing! Each night, an elimination will also take place, and you the poor b*st*rds who still watch ITV1 can pay £1 a minute to vote for who youd least like to keep on-air! The contestants, include Michael Greco from Eastenders, Lucy Pargeter from Emmerdale, and Shobna Gulati from Coronation Street. I swear to God, ITV has now officially lost the plot! Please avoid this show, if you value any sense of your own self-worth, and status with your friends, neighbours and relatives! (ITV1)
My Name Is Earl 10:00-10:35pm
New, adult US comedy, with Jason Lee as Earl Hickey, a small-time crook who attempts to undo all the bad things he has done over the past, after he has a life-changing epiphany. (Channel 4)
The Shield Night 11:10pm-5:15am
And now, Ive saved the best for last! The meanest, baddest, baldest police officer from the Los Angeles Police Department, is back on the beat, and Five are giving viewers old or new, a chance to get to know him in full! For the next few weeks, each Friday night will be devoted entirely to back-to-back, sequential episodes of one of the hardest-hitting US police dramas ever made. Tonight, we go back right to the very beginning, as we are given the chance to watch Season 1, Episodes 1 through 7, uncut, uncensored and practically uninterrupted! Next Friday night, Season 1, Episodes 8 through 13 will air, followed in future weeks by all of Seasons 2, 3 and possibly 4 as well! (Season 5 will probably start in June 2006!) If youve never met Mackay, Aceveda, Claudette Wyms, Shane, Julien or Lemonhead, or have missed certain episodes, this will be your one-and-only chance to see all of them, from all of the first three seasons, uncut, DOG-free and as they were meant to be seen. (Season 1 was shot in 4:3 only. Seasons 2 onwards, are all in Widescreen.) Enjoy the show, and get prepared for the ride of your lives! The show frequently contains strong language, some sexual scenes, some hard-hitting violence, and occasionally material that some may find distressing. (Season 1, Episode 6 especially). (Five)
Well, I hope theres enough there for everyone to enjoy! Just to round things off, there are also plenty of other shows to tempt you some of which even start this month. These include:
- NYPD Blue (Seasons 1, 2 and 3 repeats)
- Boomtown (Season 1 repeats)
- Close To Home (New Jerry Bruckheimer legal drama, starring Annabeth Gish)
- Invasion (Channel 4)
- Stark (Ben Eltons environmental sci-fi drama)
- Bones (David Angel Boreanazs new part-drama/part real-life series)
- Chappelles Show (New adult stand-up comedy from David Chappelle)
- Desperate Housewives (Season 2)
- Surface (Season 1)
- Smallville (Season 5)
- Due South (Seasons 1-4 repeats)
- Wanted (US crime drama with Gary (Crusade / American Gothic) Cole!)
- Prison Break (A mix of Oz and 24.)
- Huff (Season 2)
- The Wire (Season 3)
- Navy NCIS (Season 3)
- Masters Of Horror (Season 1)
- The Night-Stalker (The short-lived 2004/05 remake)
As you can see, 2006 looks like its going to be outstanding! And, as always, Ill do my best to keep everyone up-to-date, and in the know when it comes to whats coming on our TV screens!
For now, though, I have to end. Im posting this on Christmas Eve 2005, so if youre reading this then, then let me just wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Pooch
Its almost 2006, and we have a superb start to the New Year, with lots of worthwhile shows for you to all enjoy. Whether youre into crime thrillers, British legal drama, US comedy or science fiction, theres almost certain to be something for you to salivate over. We also have some old favourites making a much-loved welcome return to UK television. Id highly recommend that you start stock-piling plenty of blank VHS tapes, DVDs, and/or making space on your Sky+/DVD Recorder hard drives, as I suspect therell be lots of people wanting to record plenty of my suggestions! And so, without further ado, lets get straight on with the update!
Saturday 31st December 2005
FILM: The Straight Story (PG) 3:50-5:55pm
David Lynchs most mainstream movie to date, and probably his most personal. The unlikely tale of an 80-year old Iowa farmer, who sets off on a lawnmower, to travel to see his dying brother in Wisconsin. Its quite unlike anything youve ever seen, and yet its quite superb and poignant too. Contains some mild bad language, and some upsetting scenes. Showing uncut and in Widescreen. (Channel 4)
American Film Institutes 100 Years, 100 Movie Quotes 9:00-11:30pm
Its another one of those (usually) dire Top 100 lists, but this one is very, very different. As the title implies, this deals with movie catchphrases; famous quotes and deadly dialogue. From Casblanca, Apocalypse Now and Star Wars through to James Bond, Terminator 2 and many more. Will undoubtedly contain adult material and strong language. (Channel 4)
Frasiers Night Of Reflection 9:00pm-3:00am
Back-to-back episodes of some of the best of all 11 Seasons of the hit US comedy Frasier. (Paramount Comedy Channel 2)
FILM: Childs Play (15) 9:55-11:40pm
For the first time on UK terrestrial TV, we get to see the full, uncut, original uncensored version of this nifty and clever little horror movie, about devil-doll Chucky. In 1987, the BBFC edited the movie, to remove some of the strongest scenes of violence. Even now, it has been almost impossible to see what was cut, and the UK DVD is still the same censored print. Now though, its a TV station that lets us all see, what the BBFC wont. When serial-killer Charles Lee Ray, (a superbly eerie performance from Brad Dourif), performs a soul-transference spell, into a toy doll, just seconds before his death, the doll is left, unwittingly to be bought by anyone, seeking the popular toy. So when Andy Barclay is given the doll, by his mother, little do they know that what they have is not just a talking doll, but is far more evil than anything they imagined. Although followed by several inferior sequels, the original movie is a genuine classic, and several scenes will make you jump. (The ending, is a killer!) It also shows what movie-makers can do when their special effects knowledge is really put to good use. Contains some strong language, some graphic violence, and scenes that may disturb. Showing uncut and in Widescreen. Repeated at 12:40am, the same evening. (ITV4)
FILM: Comic Aid (18) 11:00pm-1:00am
A whole host of leading British stand-up comics, including Stephen Fry, Eddie Izzard, Simon Pegg, Jo Brand, Jack Dee and Julian Clary perform a one-off showcase of their best material, in aid of last years Comic Relief charity fundraiser. The show contains lots of adult material, including sexual swear words and explicit language, and is not recommended for the easily offended. Showing in Widescreen. (BBC3)
Sunday 1st January 2006 HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYONE!
FILM: Gone With The Wind (PG) 12:45-4;15pm
Its long, its flawed and it has some less-than-PC moments, but its still one of the most interesting films ever made. Need a chance to get over last nights festivities? You could do far worse, than sitting back for the next three-and-a-half hours, and wallowing in this 1939 movie classic. Showing uncut, and in the original 4:3 Aspect ratio. (BBC2)
FILM: Withnail And I (15) Midnight-2:00am
Richard E Grant and Paul McGann star as the titular characters, and lead us into their own, very distorted, and alcohol-fuelled world. Cult comedy, with strong language. Showing uncut and in Widescreen. (Channel 4)
Monday 2nd
Quantum Leap 10:35-11:30am
Yes! The adventures of Sam Beckett and his holographic advisor Al Calavicci, return to UK screens once more! Weekdays on ITV3 just got much better, with the chance to see the entire 5-Season run of this award-winning drama, being shown back-to-back, every weekday, at approximately the same time, starting with the first half of the Pilot Movie Genesis (concluding tomorrow). Each episode is also repeated at about 5:55pm. Enjoy! (ITV3)
FILM: Anna And The King (12) 2;15-4:30pm
Evocative and intelligent movie, that fans of both period dramas and Hong Kong actor Chow Yun-Fat should enjoy. King Monghut (Yun-Fat) hires the recently-widowed Englishwoman Anna Leonowen (Jodie Foster), to tutor his son. However, Leonowen soon takes more interest in political and personal matters, that threaten both Siam and England, to the verge of an all-out war. Based on a true-story, and surprisingly enjoyable. Edited for minor scenes of strong violence. Showing in Widescreen. (BBC1)
Third Watch 7:00-8:00pm
Finally! UK fans who have been so utterly screwed-about by Channel 4s abominable transmission of this brilliant US drama, dealing with all three emergency services Fire, Police and Ambulance can relax, as FX have brought the rights to air Seasons 1-4. (Five and six are likely to follow, by the end of the year!) This is the first chance, that UK viewers will be able to see the show uncut and uncensored, as well as in the correct, chronological order! If youve never seen it, then I cant recommend it highly enough! A truly outstanding blend of drama, comedy and action, amongst the members of the Third Watch (the crews who work the 2pm-10pm shift) at the 55th Precinct in New York. Airing every weekday evening, at 7pm only, with (potentially) edited weekend repeats on Saturdays and Sundays, during the daytime. Check out the opening five minutes of the Pilot Episode Welcome To Camelot, as it sets the scene and tone of the show beautifully. (FX270).
The Thick Of It 10:00-10:30pm
If you havent already caught this show on BBC4, then its a must-see. Dark, foul-mouthed and incredibly complex, multi-layered scenarios are what make this political satire about the day-to-day problems that a Machiavellian Prime Minister and his spin-doctors endure, so absorbing. Chris Langham plays PM Hugh Abbot, with Peter Capaldi as his spin-doctor, Malcolm Tucker. BBC2 are actually airing Series 1 and 2 back-to-back, as each Series lasted just three episodes each. Catch all six episodes, over the next six weeks. I should warn viewers, that the series has unrelentingly explicit language throughout each episode, including extensive use of the f-word, the mf-word, and the c-word, too! Showing uncut and in Widescreen. (BBC2)
FILM: Stir Crazy (15) 10:00pm-12:10am
After Richard Pryors recent death from Multiple Sclerosis, ITv3 pay a fitting tribute by repeating probably the finest movie he made, outside of his own stand-up shows. Its full of horrendous language, with plenty of non-PC humour, and its a tad dated, but its still one of the funniest movies since Monty Pythons Life Of Brian. The jokes, keep on coming, and I defy anyone not to be in tears, by the end. Showing uncut and in Widescreen. (ITV3)
SCHEDULE CHANGE: Without A Trace 11:55pm-12:55am
After sticking with this enjoyable US drama in a regular 10pm Monday night slot, before reverting to double-bills over the past couple of weeks, it seems yet another US drama is going to die a miserable death on Channel 4, by being shunted to a post-Midnight timeslot. This is the penultimate episode of Season 3. Why, oh why, do they keep doing this?! (Channel 4)
Tuesday 3rd
Richard Hammonds Five OClock Show 5:00-6:00pm
Richard Hammond, the young, short cute one from Top Gear, hosts alongside Mel Giedoryc, a new, daily weekday chat-show. If you like Hammond, then I suspect that this show will do far better than ITV are expecting. (ITV1)
Stargate SG-1: True Science 8:00-9:00pm
A look at how some of the science-fiction concepts seen in the long-running futuristic drama, are actually based on real-life scenarios and events. (Sky 1)
Sweeney Todd 9:00-10:30pm
One-off BBC drama adaptation of the infamous man, lovingly known as the Demon Barber of Fleet Street! British actor Ray Winstone plays Sweeney Todd, and the BBC has already stated that this is not your regular, saintly period drama adaption, so expect plenty of violence, gore and some sexual material, too. (BBC1)
Nine Days That Shook London 10:00-11:15pm
Documentary exploring nine days from Summer 2005, when London became the centre of attention for the entire world. The UK was on a high, when Live 8 made world news, and helped bring the suffering of the Third World, to the attention of the politicians attending the G8 Summit in Scotland. Then, the news came that we had won the Olympic bid, tearing it from the hand of Paris, and our nation celebrated. Yet just 12 hours later, the very same nation awoke to a disaster that we never expected to occur, when four suicide bombers brought the capital to a halt! What happened over those nine days, before, during and after those events, is explored in this harrowing, but thought-provoking film. Contains some strong language, and uncompromisingly distressing scenes, as well as news footage from the events. (BBC2)
FILM: Wasabi (15) 11:00pm-12:50am
Rare showing for this unusual movie, about a French police officer, (played by Jean Reno, of Leon, La Femme Nikita and Ronin fame), who returns to his old homeland in Japan, and discovers a daughter he never knew existed. Contains some violence, and some bad language. Showing uncut and in Widescreen. Some English subtitles. (ITV3)
Wednesday 4th
Battlestar Galactica: The Lowdown 8:00-9:00pm
Behind-the-scenes of Season 2 of this critically-acclaimed US Sci-Fi show, before the Season 2 Premier next Tuesday evening! Meet the cast and crew, and get the latest info on what viewers can expect. Showing in Widescreen. (Sky 1)
Rome 9:00-10:30pm
The final two episodes, are being shown in one, feature-length movie, and its time for Caesar to get is comeuppance. Strong language, graphic violence and scenes of a frank and adult nature all come together, in the final 90 minutes of this controversial US show! Showing uncut and in Widescreen. (BBC2)
Derren Brown: The Heist 9:00-10:00pm
Love him or loathe him, theres always something special about watching this mans crazy stunts, tricks and illusions. Tonight sees him try to pull off one of his most memorable stunts ever! His task to convince eight, ordinary middle-managers to give-up their jobs, and plan and execute a £100,000 armed robbery, in the form of a bank heist! ;eek: Will it work, or will it fail? Find out tonight. (Channel 4)
Thursday 5th
FILM: Tim (PG) 1:45-3:30pm
Mel Gibsons earliest film role, was in this romantic drama, based on Colleen McCulloughs novel of the same name. Gibson plays Tim, a young man who has a low IQ, and is unable to function around normal people. A middle-aged woman, Piper Laurie, decides she wants to take him under her wing, but their relationship becomes more than either of them expected. Showing un Widescreen. (BBC2)
Richard Hammonds Five OClock Show 5:00-6:00pm
I know Ive already mentioned this show, but tonights should be worth-watching more than ever. Richard looks at which UK companies have the worst music for putting people on-hold too, and also investigates bras for men! (ITV1)
Charmed 8:00-9:00pm
Theyre back! The Hallowell ladies return for the all-new 8th Season, with the first of 22 new episodes, never before seen in the UK. Meet new characters, good and bad, and even one or two old foes as well. (LivingTV)
ER 9:00-10:00pm
The start of Season 12, and problems continue between Luka, Sam and her son. Digital viewers can see the show a week earlier than non-digital viewers. But dont panic, because the rest of us can enjoy the same episode next Wednesday night at 9:00pm on Channel 4, and sans DOG too! (E4)
The Comeback 9:30-10:00pm
All-new US comedy, starring Lisa Kudrow (Phoebe, from Friends). Kudrow plays Valerie Cherish, an ageing, has-been TV actress of whom Hollywood is no longer bothered with. However, Cherish still has bills to pay, and a lifestyle to uphold, so she signs-up to star in a new Reality TV show that will feature her attempts at trying to get a new job on TV. But little does she know, of just how bad things will get with a TV crew following her 24/7! The show has received many positive reviews in the US, mainly because the show isnt squeaky clean, and shows Kudrow to be as much an actress, as someone willing to spoof her own life, after Friends ended a couple of years back. This is likely to be a big hit in the US, even for those of you who hated Friends, as its all about the back-stabbing behind the scenes business, and not the glossy, sentimental stuff that we actually see on sitcom screens. (LivingTV)
Boston Legal 10:00-11:00pm
Its back, with the start of Season 2, and the offices of the Massachusetts law firm is awash with several new cast members, including Rene Auberjonois (better known as the shape-changing Star Trek Security Officer Odo from Deep Space 9), Candice Bergen, and Julie Bowen (replacing Rhona Mitra and Monica Potter who left in Season 1, though not in the same roles)! (LivingTV)
Ricky Gervais Meets Larry David 10:15-11:20pm
After a long wait, the TV special finally makes its UK debut. UK comedian Gervais interviews US comedian Larry David (Curb Your Enthusiasm), in this special documentary, where each chats about their life in comedy. (Channel 4)
Ricky Gervais: Politics (18) 11:20pm-12:55am
Uncut showing of the second stand-up tour that Gervais took around the UK in 2004/2005. Contains strong language and adult material throughout. Showing in Widescreen. (Channel 4)
Karen Sisco 12:05-12:45am
Originally shown on ITV3, when it first launched, here is the first chance for non-digital viewers to see this short-lived US drama, which is a spin-off from the hit movie Out Of Sight (starring George Clooney), with Carla Gugino taking over Jennifer Lopezs role. A ballsy US Marshall, based in Miami, is on the hunt for fugitives, but finds things far tougher than she expects, when she is shot on her first day back! The show only lasted 10 episodes in total. N.B. The scheduled time is likely to be altered, as it seems too short for the episode. Expect the show, therefore, to end no earlier than 12;55am! (ITV1)
Friday 6th
FILM: The China Syndrome (PG) 1:10-3:30pm
Chilling political thriller, with Michael Douglas, Jane Fonda and Jack Lemmon. A TV reporter, Fonda, is reporting from a nuclear power plant, when a catastrophic accident sends the whole place into a critical meltdown. Her bosses wants to keep her on-air, because of the exclusivity of the story she is now involved in, whilst she fights to keep her own life in the impending doom. Will her friend, mentor, and fellow reporter, (Douglas), back at the TV station, be able to help her? Contains some harrowing scenes, and mild bad language. Superb and chilling insight into the lengths that the news media are willing to go, for a big break! Showing uncut and in Widescreen. (Channel 4)
Soapstar Superstar 8:30-10:30pm
As we begin 2006, it seems that ITV1 is determined to start the year as they mean to go on, and that means plenty of low-brow, cheap TV junk! For the next nine consecutive days I kid you not two hours of prime-time national TV is going to be devoted to finding if soap stars from the past and present, can be turned into superstars who can sing! Each night, an elimination will also take place, and you the poor b*st*rds who still watch ITV1 can pay £1 a minute to vote for who youd least like to keep on-air! The contestants, include Michael Greco from Eastenders, Lucy Pargeter from Emmerdale, and Shobna Gulati from Coronation Street. I swear to God, ITV has now officially lost the plot! Please avoid this show, if you value any sense of your own self-worth, and status with your friends, neighbours and relatives! (ITV1)
My Name Is Earl 10:00-10:35pm
New, adult US comedy, with Jason Lee as Earl Hickey, a small-time crook who attempts to undo all the bad things he has done over the past, after he has a life-changing epiphany. (Channel 4)
The Shield Night 11:10pm-5:15am
And now, Ive saved the best for last! The meanest, baddest, baldest police officer from the Los Angeles Police Department, is back on the beat, and Five are giving viewers old or new, a chance to get to know him in full! For the next few weeks, each Friday night will be devoted entirely to back-to-back, sequential episodes of one of the hardest-hitting US police dramas ever made. Tonight, we go back right to the very beginning, as we are given the chance to watch Season 1, Episodes 1 through 7, uncut, uncensored and practically uninterrupted! Next Friday night, Season 1, Episodes 8 through 13 will air, followed in future weeks by all of Seasons 2, 3 and possibly 4 as well! (Season 5 will probably start in June 2006!) If youve never met Mackay, Aceveda, Claudette Wyms, Shane, Julien or Lemonhead, or have missed certain episodes, this will be your one-and-only chance to see all of them, from all of the first three seasons, uncut, DOG-free and as they were meant to be seen. (Season 1 was shot in 4:3 only. Seasons 2 onwards, are all in Widescreen.) Enjoy the show, and get prepared for the ride of your lives! The show frequently contains strong language, some sexual scenes, some hard-hitting violence, and occasionally material that some may find distressing. (Season 1, Episode 6 especially). (Five)
Well, I hope theres enough there for everyone to enjoy! Just to round things off, there are also plenty of other shows to tempt you some of which even start this month. These include:
- NYPD Blue (Seasons 1, 2 and 3 repeats)
- Boomtown (Season 1 repeats)
- Close To Home (New Jerry Bruckheimer legal drama, starring Annabeth Gish)
- Invasion (Channel 4)
- Stark (Ben Eltons environmental sci-fi drama)
- Bones (David Angel Boreanazs new part-drama/part real-life series)
- Chappelles Show (New adult stand-up comedy from David Chappelle)
- Desperate Housewives (Season 2)
- Surface (Season 1)
- Smallville (Season 5)
- Due South (Seasons 1-4 repeats)
- Wanted (US crime drama with Gary (Crusade / American Gothic) Cole!)
- Prison Break (A mix of Oz and 24.)
- Huff (Season 2)
- The Wire (Season 3)
- Navy NCIS (Season 3)
- Masters Of Horror (Season 1)
- The Night-Stalker (The short-lived 2004/05 remake)
As you can see, 2006 looks like its going to be outstanding! And, as always, Ill do my best to keep everyone up-to-date, and in the know when it comes to whats coming on our TV screens!
For now, though, I have to end. Im posting this on Christmas Eve 2005, so if youre reading this then, then let me just wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Pooch