Fat Guys at the Movies » Merrill Barr

Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 109 – The Light

Merrill Barr — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 18:00:15 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash throw on their best winter gear and head out into the wolf infested wilderness in an attempt to discover the meaning of life and also breakdown the meaning behind the career of Joe Carnahan.

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The Idiot Boxers – Bonus Episode: Smash Pilot

Merrill Barr — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:00:51 +0000

In this very special episode: When Kevin leaves, Merrill brings on special guest John Scherer to dance and sing through a special edition of The Idiot Boxers. What what is this special edition for exactly, why just the new NBC series Smash.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 108 – Haylight

Merrill Barr — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 18:00:32 +0000

In this episode, Merrill feels bad for having left Hash out of the previous discussion of indie darling Steven Soderbergh. In response, he lets Hash gush.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 107 – Up In The Light

Merrill Barr — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 18:00:06 +0000

In this episode, Merrill gets sick (no thanks to Mar Wahlberg) and Hash gets… Hash while the two discuss the awesome of Reitman in the Jason variety.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 106 – Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Lights

Merrill Barr — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 18:00:43 +0000

In this episode, Hash and Merrill get crazy with whiteboards and Guy Richie films. And for the first time in Celluloid Spotlight history, the show doesn’t end when the lights go down.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 105 – Close Encounters of the Third Light

Merrill Barr — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 18:00:47 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash take a look at the man, the myth, the legend, the king of modern cinema, Steven Spielberg.

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The Idiot Boxers – Bonus Episode: Dexter, Season 6

Merrill Barr — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 07:30:32 +0000

In this very special episode: With Kevin still on vacation, Merrill once again invited a guest into the magical studio in the sky to talk some TV. This time it’s Film School Reject’s Rob Hunter who has one goal during their discussion of the sixth season of Dexter, derail Merrill as much as possible.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 104 – The Light of 2011

Merrill Barr — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 17:00:56 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash long with special guest Rudie Obias talk the best, worst and most overlooked of 2011.

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The Idiot Boxers – Bonus Episode: American Horror Story

Merrill Barr — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 14:00:48 +0000

In this very special episode: Kevin and Merrill may be on break from the usual but that won’t stop Merrill from watching as much TV as possible. And with the help of Dave Gonzales from Operation Kino, the two of them talk the wonder and bat shit insanity that is American Horror Story.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 103 – Dragons & Lights in Redux, Alright

Merrill Barr — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 18:00:56 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash talk some classic scifi, remakes and a whole lot of anal rape.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 102 – The Iron Light

Merrill Barr — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 18:00:10 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash’s mission, should they choose to except it, is to talk director extraordinaire Brad Bird at length. This message will become awesome in five seconds.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 101 – Anthology of Light

Merrill Barr — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 18:00:58 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash talk anthologies.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 100 – Cutting Light

Merrill Barr — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 18:00:08 +0000

In this 100th episode, Merrill and Hash debate about which actress of years past is hotter, take a look back at the origins of the light and talk some editing.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 99 – Silent Light

Merrill Barr — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 18:00:40 +0000

In this episode, Merrill & Hash get teary eyed over the magic that is, Hugo.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 98 – Schlight

Merrill Barr — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 18:00:21 +0000

In this episode, Merrill & Hash are joined by special guest Ike from Mike & Ike because the two of them alone weren’t enough to take the absolutely confusing, Joel Schumacher.

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The Idiot Boxers – ‘Flashpoint’ Executive Producers Anne Marie Traverse and Bill Mustos Interview

Merrill Barr — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 14:00:24 +0000

In this very special very special episode: Merrill once again gets to sit down with some heavy hitters over at his favroite show Flashpoint. This time around it’s show Executive Producers Anne Marie Traverse and Bill Mustos who talk about the evolution of the series through serialized arcs and finding the balance between script needs vs what the network wants.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 97 – Comedy Lights Part II

Merrill Barr — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 17:00:53 +0000

In this episode, Hash returns just in time for the release of the apparently craptastic Jack & Jill. However, since neither of the boys have seen it, they spend their time discussing the current state of comedy on film… It’s depressing.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 96 – Golden Lights and Ratts

Merrill Barr — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 17:00:26 +0000

In this episode, Hash ditches Merrill for a wedding so instead Merrill gets golden with Jeremy Kirk from The Golden Briefcase as they talk about what makes Brett Ratner tick.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 95 – In Light

Merrill Barr — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 17:00:50 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash hunt down the time lords in an attempt to stop their clocks from running out while they talk the conceptual mad-genius of Andrew Niccol.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 94 – Lightloose

Merrill Barr — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 17:00:47 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash get musical while taking a look at the nearly forgotten genre of well, musicals.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 93 – The Ides of Light

Merrill Barr — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 17:00:30 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash get crazy with the absolutely awesome directorial efforts of George Clooney

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 92 – Biolight

Merrill Barr — Sun, 09 Oct 2011 17:00:13 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash get biological… And slightly biographical and talk some biopics.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 91 – Citizen Light

Merrill Barr — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 17:00:54 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash get classical with one of the greatest film makers of all time, Orson Welles.

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Win Passes to a Screening of the New STARZ Series BOSS

Merrill Barr — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 17:00:17 +0000

Hey, have you heard of the new STARZ series BOSS starring Kelsey Grammer? Well now you have a chance to see it before it premieres. STARZ will be holding screenings in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago of the first episode (directed by Gus Van Sant) for fans, details after the jump on how to enter for your chance to see the premiere of BOSS.
Click here to view the trailer.

New York

o For you New York locals, an advance screening of the premiere episode of BOSS will be held at Landmark’s Sunshine Cinema on October 17, 2011. Doors open at 6pm, screening starts at 7pm. Arrive early as seating is limited by capacity — tickets will be issued on a first come, first served basis.

Chicago

o For you Chicago locals, an advance screening of the premiere episode of BOSS will be held at the Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema on October 18, 2011. Doors open at 6pm, screening starts at 7pm. Arrive early as seating is limited by capacity — tickets will be issued on a first come, first served basis.

Los Angeles

o For you Los Angeles locals, an advance screening of the premiere episode of BOSS will be held at The Landmark on October 18, 2011.

To be eligible to win tickets, you must be a Los Angeles Film Club member or sign up at http://filmclub.landmarktheatres.com by October 10th. Once you are a member, look for a Screening Ticket Giveaway email on October 12th for the chance to win tickets. Winners will be alerted via email if selected for the screening.

BOSS premiere Friday, October 21st at 10pm on STARZ.

Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 90 – A Few Good Lights

Merrill Barr — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 17:00:39 +0000

In this episode, Hash returns just in time to help Merrill take a look through the magical bliss that is Aaron Sorkin.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 89 – Light of the Disease

Merrill Barr — Sun, 18 Sep 2011 17:07:19 +0000

In this episode, Hash’s contagion becomes to great and instead Merrilll recruits the help of stand-up comic Lauren Bancroft to discuss the life and work of director extraordinaire, Steven Soderbergh.

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The Idiot Boxers – ‘Burn Notice’ Star Coby Bell Interview

Merrill Barr — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 12:00:16 +0000

Merrill sits down with Kevin’s nemesis Coby Bell, better known as Jesse from Burn Notice. During the discussion, Coby gets into what it’s like now that he is fully in sync with the rest of the cast as well as how he works under the heat of Miami in the dead of summer.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 88 – Red Light

Merrill Barr — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 22:28:00 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash get Biblical while taking a look at directors that work outside their comfort zone.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 87 – Don’t Be Afraid of The Light

Merrill Barr — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 17:00:45 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash take a look through the mind of Guillermo Del Toro.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 86 – Epic Light

Merrill Barr — Sun, 21 Aug 2011 17:00:27 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash get epic!

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Idiot Boxers Review: Flashpoint, Ep: 413

Merrill Barr — Sat, 20 Aug 2011 02:00:03 +0000

TV review by Merrill Barr, co-host of The Idiot Boxers

Show: Flashpoint
Airs: CBS, Fridays, 8pm
Episode: “Shockwave”

Review: Team One might be able to keep the peace, but my personal health is something else entirely.

Did I expect a “happy” ending to the call, of course. But why should an expected ending to a critical incident diminish one’s enjoyment of the events? The pacing, the directing, and the writing, oh boy the writing, it was all beyond top notch to close out what has been one heck of an explosive season.

As I stated a while back, this season has yet to have an episode that wasn’t better than the one that came before it, and it’s a good thing they stopped here. It would’ve probably been near impossible to top this.

What makes Shockwave work so well is the pacing. For the first two acts the dial is cranked to eleven, leaving very little room for things like breathing, but then in act three things slow down. It gives the audience a chance to breathe and then sweat over the situation as a whole because let’s be honest, that is one big ass bomb.

It was also nice to have an episode that was 100% Spike’s. Even the last time we got a Spike episode during “No Promises,” it wasn’t 100% Spike’s. There was alot going on with the cat and mouse game during that episode. But here, no one else on the team is an explosives expert, so only Spike can handle the call with the care that it needs.

On top of that, the arc of Spike’s relationship with his father was brought front and center in this episode. Since Fault Lines, but chronologically since One Wrong Move, there has been an on-going struggle between Spike and his dying father. Not much has been seen, but we know it’s been weighing on him. What was nice is that the writers didn’t bother going through the motions of him getting back into a relationship with his father. We know how that would go anyway, instead we skip the appetizers and get right to the main course, and in the final moments of the episode, Spike reached an emotional peak that he has never been to before.

When the moment comes where his father speaks the words “Michael, I’m scared,” you could have cut the emotions with a knife. Despite having spent maybe a total of ten minutes with the man, the audience gets the sense that he’s been here the whole time, and it’s all because of what we’ve experienced through Spike.

And speaking of emotional peaks. I have a sneaking suspicion that this episode is the culmination of a much larger arc that began in One Wrong Move. In the final scene of that episode, Spike experiences a huge loss, a loss greater than what was felt by any other member of the team. In the final shot, Greg holds the distressed Spike like a father holding his son.

The next time this moment is brought up is in Follow The Leader where Spike is face-to-face with a bomb for the first time since Lew’s death. When Greg is watching over, Spike looks up and tells Greg to step back, signaling that this is something that he has to do on his own. Essentially, coming to a personal redemption for the death of Lew that he blames on himself.

Then in No Promises Spike comes head-to-head with the man that made him who he is. And in the process of trying to keep him alive, he looses him. And in the final moments of the episode, assumes the role of protector for Mack’s daughter. Bringing him one step closer to maturity.

And that brings us to Shockwave, and his father’s hospital bed. After going through so much tragedy, Spike is now stronger, and emotionally prepared to provide the comfort his father needs in his final hours. And that’s what this arc has been about since the beginning. Making Spike more than just “the bomb guy” or “the team nerd.” It was about making Spike a man, and not just a boy. And what’s more powerful than being able to comfort the man that raised you? It’s not until now that all of that is realized.

This episode shows the type of depth the writing team are able to achieve and why Flashpoint has been and will always be more than just your typical police procedural.

Final thoughts: I think I said everything that needed to be said already.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 85 – Loving Light

Merrill Barr — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 17:00:26 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash return from their break to talk relationships and their vast qualities on celluloid.

[See post to listen to audio]
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Idiot Boxers Review: Flashpoint, Ep: 412

Merrill Barr — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 01:27:35 +0000

TV review by Merrill Barr, co-host of The Idiot Boxers

Show: Flashpoint
Airs: CBS, Fridays, 8pm
Episode: “A Day in the Life”

Review: Looks like Flashpoint is pulling a Law & Order.

For those that don’t recall, the new recruit played by Clé Bennett originally played a subject in the episode “Exit Wounds.” This is nothing new in the world of cop shows, just a nice factoid.

As for the new guy, I like him. He’s got spunk. It’s not too often you see a new recruit take matters into their own hands like that, a no nonsense, screw the red tape kind of guy, that’s what I’m seeing here, and I like it.

But new guy aside, this was one of the most action packed episodes of Flashpoint, ever. But more importantly, it took us to a place we haven’t been yet (which is to be commended for a show that’s in season four). We always here Team One talk about having multiple-call shifts, but we always catch them on the last one which always seems to be the most hectic.

But here we got to watch Team One deal with three back-to-back calls in a single shift. My personal favorite of the three was the first one. It’s been a while since Jules saw some real action, and being second negotiator to Greg you’d think she’d be utilized more. So to watch Amy Jo Johnson stretch her emotional muscle for the first time this season was nice to see.

But that doesn’t mean there was any slouching in the other calls.

The call in the gentleman’s club was solid. Actually, I’ve quite wondered from time to time why one of the team doesn’t get so frustrated that they simply take matters into their own hands because they KNOW it’s the right move. The answer? Because the rest of the team has years of experience behind them and know it’s NEVER the right move. But Raf being a rookie, it allows us the opportunity to see situations like this.

As for the third and final call of the episode, it was okay, but it ended on a really emotional note. It got to the point where the ending could of gone either way, but to see it end in a life or death call, it’s always a welcomed scene on Flashpoint.

Oh, and if Parker is starting a relationship, I’m happy.

Final thoughts: Excellent episode of Flashpoint.

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Idiot Boxers Review: Flashpoint, Ep: 411

Merrill Barr — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 02:09:24 +0000

TV review by Merrill Barr, co-host of The Idiot Boxers

Show: Flashpoint
Airs: CBS, Fridays, 8pm
Episode: “The Better Man”

Review: I want to start this review by saying that Flashpoint has yet to have an episode this season that wasn’t better than the one that came before it, and “The Better Man” is no exception.

I’ll get right to it, I’m pissed. I’m pissed that I have to watch another member of Team One leave us too soon. At least this time it wasn’t because he stepped on a land mine. I’m pissed because the production team did their job. They made me care so much about Wordy that to watch him go brought a tear to my eye.

I’ve always said that Wordy was the most underplayed of the team and now that he’s gone, it feels weird. To use an analogy said recently by film maker Kevin Smith in regards to his retiring from film making: “I’d rather be the guy that leaves the party early and makes everyone go “where’d he go, I liked that guy” than the guy that stays too long and makes people go “why is he still here?”" And that’s how I feel about the departure of Wordy. We didn’t get much of him through the last four years in terms of back story, but what we did get was always grade A material.

All that said, I think my hatred for the decision is exactly what the writers wanted. Nothing is more challenging that making someone hate a decision you make for the right reasons. Because now, Wordy will go down as one of the best characters to ever grace the series. It’s a brilliant move that only goes to show the quality of the series and the risks they’re willing to take.

And just as a quick but no less important note: Michael Cram f—-n nailed it. This was his best performance of the series.

As for the episode itself, it definitely contained some twists I did not see coming. Twists like the scene on the bridge where Leila is shot, not for a second did I think there wasn’t going to be a some what happy ending to the episode. But the truth is, this episode went dark, very dark. Especially for 8pm primetime on broadcast television.

And the talent behind the camera was just as awesome as the talent in front. Michael MacLennan’s writing was top notch. And once again, we got an exquisitely directed episode from David Frazee who I honestly wish could direct every episode of the series because he has yet to not deliver on the show.

To close this up I want to say that I almost wish that THIS was the season finale, because this was indeed an episode that leaves me begging for more.

Final thoughts: I’m pissed, but in a good way.

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Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 84 – Cross Light

Merrill Barr — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 17:00:01 +0000

In this episode, Hash returns with a novel idea to discuss the rarity in film known as cross-genre with Merrill.

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Idiot Boxers Review: Flashpoint, Ep: 410

Merrill Barr — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 01:34:08 +0000

TV review by Merrill Barr, co-host of The Idiot Boxers

Show: Flashpoint
Airs: CBS, Fridays, 8pm
Episode: “Through A Glass Darkly”

Review: (in high pitched voice with make-up running down the cheek) LEAVE WORDY ALONE!!!

Okay, I understand that the writers want to keep the quality and suspense of the show up week to week, and while they are consistently succeeding at that, must we have the option opened up that we might lose another member of Team One? Yes, I am being selfish by asking that but come on, it’s Wordy. Who doesn’t love Wordy?

Speaking of quality, this episode was really good… Cue non-surprised faces in 5… 4… 3… 2.. 1…

Seriously, I’m surprised because the trailer for this episode gave me a completely different impression. In the trailer, nothing looked like it was gelling, but in the actual episode, it turns out all the elements came together rather nicely. And the twists, oh the twists… Not so much the whole gun shot in the distance part, I’ve seen to many cop shows to not know what actually happened. But those last five minutes almost gave me a heart attack.

Seriously, I did not expect partner two to go down like that. Bit of a shame because I would of liked a stand-off that ended with him doing the right thing. That said, his demise did lead the what is possibly the best Ed Lane doing work scene that has ever been displayed on the show.

To my knowledge this is the first time we’ve seen Ed utilize his Sniper skills in fast forward. Usually, Ed goes sniper and sets up a purch and stays there for the majority of the episode. But here, quick thinking Lane went all Mark Wahlberg in Shooter on this dude, and I’ll be dammed if it wasn’t awesome.

And after this episode, I think it’s safe to say that the show really seems to feel like it’s getting back to it’s roots. The roots of Team One being the baddest MFers in the Toronto PD. Every episode lately always seems to portray their ability to work together and achieve and immensely difficult task, all while trying to unravel the week’s mystery.

Basically what I’m saying is… It’s still my favorite show on television.

Final thoughts: A fine episode if I do say so myself.

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Win A ‘Cowboys & Aliens’ Movie Poster!

Merrill Barr — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 21:33:32 +0000

The Fat Guys Network has gotten its sandy palms on a fresh poster for the new film Cowboys & Aliens starring Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford… And you have a chance to win it for yourself.

Poster Up For Grabs

Here’s the official synopsis of the film:
In 1873 Arizona, a loner named Jake Lonergan (Daniel Craig) awakens with no memory of his past and a mysterious shackle around his wrist. He enters the town of Absolution where he learns that he is a notorious criminal wanted by many people, including Colonel Dolarhyde (Harrison Ford), who rules the town with an iron fist. Absolution soon faces an even greater threat when alien spaceships attack the town. While his shackle holds the key to defeating the aliens, Lonergan must ally with Dolarhyde and other former enemies to make a stand against them.

~~~
This contest is open to residents of the Contiguous United States (residents of Hawaii and Alaska are not eligible) only.

How To Enter:

(1) Follow the brand new twitter of the Fat Guys Podcast Network @FatGuysNetwork

(2) Send an @ message to @FatGuysNetwork and tell us what your favorite western and scifi films are.

(3) Deadline for entries is 11pm EST on 8/7

The winner will be notified via DM on twitter from @FatGuysNetwork and announced on the 8/12 episode of Fat Guys at the Movies.

Idiot Boxers Review: Falling Skies – Sanctuary (Part 2)

Merrill Barr — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 03:00:48 +0000

TV review by Merrill Barr, co-host of The Idiot Boxers

With every passing day, The Second Massachusetts grows more and more concerned as to why the Third Mass has yet to arrive as Terry said they would. In response, Tom heads out a reconnaissance mission to find the truth. But while he is out to find the compound, the rest of The Second Mass is trying to escape it after they learn the truth as to why they are really there. And while all that is going on, someone is having a baby and someone else is breaking restraints with glass.

Review: Mike! Why oh why did it have to be Mike?!

Perhaps the thing that should be post appreciated about this episode is that it featured no aliens. And by no, I mean zero, nada, nothing. Not so much a dead skidder carcass showed up this week. Now whether that was for a creative or financial reason doesn’t matter because the show benefitted from the move.

It’s important to remember that while the real enemy is the invading alien species, that won’t stop humanity from engaging its primal instinct in order to survive, even if that primal instinct forces them to wage war against each other. Like many other elements of this series, the idea of human survival is not a new theme, but the way Falling Skies executes it is far superior to many other attempts made across the board.

And speaking of execution, the execution of Pope’s return reminded me why he is such an awesome character and the best of the series, second only to Tom. We all knew from the minute we saw Pope in the final frame of the last episode that we was already plotting his escape, and when he broke his restraints with a broken piece of glass (an act that we never see, nor do we have to), it’s a moment for the audience to jump up and yell “hell yeah! Go Pope!” A moment that we all desperately needed after learning the truth of the compound.

But those moments of thrill were counterbalance with ones of sorrow. Most importantly when Mike is shot down like a dog at the hands of Terry. Surely I wasn’t the only one who was hoping that the shot was actually Pope saving Mike from a deadly fate, but sadly those prayers weren’t answered. It’s a cold reminder than anyone of these characters that we’ve grown to know and love over the last seven weeks can go at any moment, and not necessarily at the hands of the aliens.

Which brings us to another point, can we please end the useless staring off into nothingness boy that is Rick. We get it, the skidders have infected his mind and he no longer considers himself part of the human race, there is no need to inform us every god damn episode. Unless his next words are “I miss my daddy” he needs to just keep his mouth shut.

And on a final gripe, did the pregnancy story line serve any purpose? Maybe it’s just feels like seven episodes in, the needless and clearly forced storylines are starting show. Or maybe it’s the absence of skidders on screen. Whatever the case, there was no need to spend any more than ten minutes with the pregnant lady about to give birth (which happens in a cut). I couldn’t of been the only one that heard the entire U.S. go “ugh!” when they revealed that the baby was breached. But, I guess that’s the price we have to pay for the return of Pope. Maybe he can cook the baby food.

Episode: Sanctuary (Part 2) (Season 1 Episode 7)

Airs: TNT, Sundays, 10pm

Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 83 – Captain Light

Merrill Barr — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 17:00:30 +0000

In this episode, Hash disappears so Merrill recruits the help of Rob Hunter to help break down the magic of Joe Johonston.

[See post to listen to audio]
Download this Episode

Music:
House On A Hill by 405

Links:
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Voicemail: 516-336-8311

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Idiot Boxers Review: Flashpoint, Ep: 409

Merrill Barr — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 07:39:11 +0000

TV review by Merrill Barr, co-host of The Idiot Boxers

Show: Flashpoint
Airs: CBS, Fridays, 8pm
Episode: “Run, Jaime, Run”

Review: This is the best episode of the season so far, and I’m not just saying that… Though my affection for all things cat and mouse might have something to do with it.

I’m not even kidding, if I had an entire season where every episode focused on a cat a mouse chase, I might go into a comma from awesomeness. And when I thought about it, I can’t recall the last time we had an episode of this type. The type where Team One is always one step behind and there’s no hostage crisis (until the end that is).

In this episode, Team One is sent down blind allies and dead turns all in hopes of a having a slim chance to catch a kid that has no intention of being caught. Like Captain America, this episode is just plain old fun. And in a season that’s been filled with some real hard hitting drama, I think we all needed an episode like this (and that goes for the writers room as well).

Even last week’s episode was a very serious one in nature. A good cop who made a tragic mistake left me hurting for something far less gut wrenching, and that’s exactly what I got in this episode. This episode takes the audience on roller coaster ride of brilliant writing.

This is the Team One I know and love. The Team One that takes loving jabs at one another for things like a misunderstanding of the phrase ROFLMAFOL. And at the same time is able to realize that they’ve been playing the game all wrong since the first call came in.

This was just an entertaining episode that couldn’t of come at a better time.

Final thoughts: Best of the season so far.

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Idiot Boxers Review: Falling Skies – Sanctuary (Part 1)

Merrill Barr — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 03:00:20 +0000

TV review by Merrill Barr, co-host of The Idiot Boxers

Tensions are running high at The Second Massachusetts as one family decides to make a run for it with all the medical supplies the refugees have. They don’t get very far though thanks to a stranded member of the war effort. But it’s not all good news when that wandering member informs Tom and the hang of an impending skidder invasion. Now it’s time for everyone to make a choice, send their children off with the stranger to keep them safe, or stay and fight and potentially risk losing them all forever.

Review: I told you we would see Pope again…

This episode brought to light an issue that we’ve all been thinking about, but have been willing to not bring up for the sake of entertainment. There’s no way the civilians under the protection of The Second Massachusetts aren’t starting to get antsy wondering what their protectors are up to. And the opening scene of this episode addresses that concern perfectly. The glue that is barely holding the refugees together is clearly starting to give way and the only question now is, when are they going to start taking matters into their own hands?

But with a series like this, we can’t dwell on questions of the future when there is so much going on in the present. Things like Jimmy finally getting to do something in the series. Up till now, Jimmy has been what amounts to a cheerleader for Tom and his unit. He hasn’t really gotten to do anything that can push the audience in either a positive or negative side in regards to his character. That was until this week anyway.

In this episode not only did Jimmy get to fight a skid, he got to show everyone watching that he can take care of himself, or at least that he is willing to try and do that. But more importantly, we were reminded that Jimmy is still a thirteen year old boy with a 9mm pistol in his hands. He doesn’t have the maturity yet to handle the intense situation he was thrust into, especially considering that situations put him face to face with an extremely pissed of skid.

And speaking of the skids, again I have to praise the effect department of Falling Skies for the amazing use of practical animatronics for the attacking skid. As we’ve covered before, the realism the show is able to create with a fraction of the budget most movies of this type are given should not only be applauded but rewarded. Rewarded with viewers coming back week after week for more.

But amazing effects aren’t the only thing making the people come back for more. It’s also the writing. And this episode introduced a larger conspiracy type element to the series that no one was asking for, but everyone will be happy with. Now the question has to be posed, “how deep does the aliens’ infiltration of the resistance go?” Is this an isolated incident or are there more? Well considering this episode is part one of a two part arc, there’s no doubt we will know the answer to that question seven days from now.

It’s also because of that continuing arc there really isn’t much else to say about this episode, nothing except that you need to tune in next week for answers.

Episode: Sanctuary (Part 1) (Season 1 Episode 6)

Airs: TNT, Sundays, 10pm

Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 82 – Harry Potter and The Deathly Light Part. Ohhh, Screw It

Merrill Barr — Sun, 17 Jul 2011 17:00:46 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash explore the magical world of film characters.

[See post to listen to audio]
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Music:
House On A Hill by 405

Links:
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Idiot Boxers Review: Flashpoint, Ep: 408

Merrill Barr — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 04:03:19 +0000

TV review by Merrill Barr, co-host of The Idiot Boxers

Show: Flashpoint
Airs: CBS, Fridays, 8pm
Episode: “Personal Effects”

Review: Flashpoint is now two for two this season and I couldn’t be happier.

Four months after the events of the previous episode, Ed returns to the SRU to make an announcement (an announcement we would later learn was in regards to his retirement from Team One). But before he gets the chance, a riot breaks out at the court house over a decision regarding a cop shooting gone wrong. And that’s just the start of the day.

Flashpoint has always had this magical ability to crank all its episode’s to eleven before the opening credits roll, and this episode is no different. Did I think Spike was ever a goner? No, of course not, this is still television at the end of the day. But that said, the scene was still intensely thrilling and endlessly entertaining because of it.

Also, the change-up of Sam tacking over the tactical duties of Team One was awesome. I never thought I would see the day where he would be barking orders to the rest of the team in that capacity. It goes to show that the members of Team One are much more versatile than previously suspected in previous episodes.

And speaking of versatile, Jules’ little game of under-cover cop was cop drama gold. It’s not often that we get to see the team out of their department issue blues (or are they black?), so when we do it’s a wonderful change of pace. But the difference between those other few times and now is that those other few times always involve one of the team dealing with an unplanned situation.

Here, Jules went under to help stop any more harm coming to the crowd. And I’ll be damned if she was wasn’t good at it. I actually wouldn’t mind an entire episode of this if it was ever required. But then again, that would probably mean the episodes would cover a time span of longer than three to four hours, so scratch that. Either way, in this episode, it was a new and delightful element.

Finally, once again Flashpoint has proven that it has access to some of the best actors in all of Canada (and I’ll be damned if a lot of them don’t rival their US counterparts). Max Martini (who seems to be in every cop related show in recent years) was f’n brilliant. Every minute he spent feeling sorry for himself was another minute I felt bad for his situation.

And on a quick side note, the scene at the end between Ed and Sophie was hysterical.

Final thoughts: As usual, Flashpoint promised a lot and delivered in every way.

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Idiot Boxers Review: Falling Skies – Silent Kill

Merrill Barr — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 03:00:57 +0000

TV review by Merrill Barr, co-host of The Idiot Boxers

After weeks of waiting, Tom and his squad are finally ready to infiltrate the skid strong hold and take back the children what were stolen from them when the invasion began. But that plan reaches a hiccup when Tom realizes he has to send his own flesh and blood into the compound for the mission to have any chance of success. Anne will also have to make a hard choice that could put the entire war effort in jeopardy. But before all is said and done, at least someone one be waking up for breakfast tomorrow.

Review: I’ll be damned if Falling Skies doesn’t know how to build tension. Not only in their beautifully placed commercial breaks, but also in the overall editing, the tone, the sound design, everything melds together to create these amazing, but very freighting moments that give many big budget thrillers a run for their money.

In this case I’m specifically referring to two scenes from this most recent episode. The first is when Hal is running around the hospital trying to extract Ben. More specifically when he is forced to pretend he is under the skids control and gets down on his stomach to allow the skid to caress him and the rest of the children. I don’t know what was going through the skids head at that moment, but I do know that the scene creeped this reviewer the hell out.

Put yourself in Hal’s shoes for a moment. You’re on a mission to save a long lost family member when one of the aliens that took over your planet starts showing a compassionate side and begins petting you like a puppy dog. It sends chills up your spine doesn’t it?

And then I that wasn’t bad enough, the seconds spent with Hal actually killing the skid is just as creepy, but on the other end of the spectrum. And that’s where the show shines. As with Michael’s death in the beginning of the episode, Falling Skies doesn’t shy away from the awfulness of death, human or skid. It portrays the death of any character in the series as gruesome and animalistic. Hollywood gloss has been completely removed from the series at this point, and what remains is heart wrenching and yet adrenaline pumping at the same time.

And speaking of adrenaline pumping, how intense was the scene back at the high school after the kids are rescued? Of course Ben was going to survive, but all those other kids are fair game. And it’s nice to know that the writers were willing to push the audience to their limit by having one of the kids not make it off the operating room table. That isn’t to say any of us were rooting for the kids death, but it does add to the seriousness of the situation, and in terms makes it more real.

Clearly the “real” thing is becoming an ongoing theme in the series. The production team wants this show to feel as real as possible. Whether it be with unexpected character deaths, gruesome fight scenes involving the skids, or practical alien effects, the audience is put into a state of anguish with this series, and made to honestly feel like they are in that abandoned high school with the rest of The Second Massachusets.

The last thing to be discussed is the inclusion of some much needed emotional development for the two most one note characters in the series, Anne and Weaver, more importantly Weaver. It doesn’t need to be presented to understand why he is effected by that song played on the record, but it does show that he has a soft side. But for the sake of survival he can never let it show.

As for Anne, her emotional development was much more prevalent and there for more screen worthy. Clearly the most important moment for her comes when she kills the captures skid with the scalpel. Remember, this is the same person that has been caring for the skid since its capture. And whether she liked it or not, all doctors development an attachment to their patients on some level, and having her kill the skid in the horrific fashion that she did, then having her feel emotionally drained by it shows that on some level she still cared.

Episode: Silent Kill (Season 1 Episode 5)

Airs: TNT, Sundays, 10pm

Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 81 – Cult Lighter

Merrill Barr — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 17:00:26 +0000

In this episode, Merrill and Hash go crazy for cult.

[See post to listen to audio]
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Music:
House On A Hill by 405

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Idiot Boxers Review: Flashpoint, Ep: 407

Merrill Barr — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 01:25:34 +0000

TV review by Merrill Barr, co-host of The Idiot Boxers

Show: Flashpoint
Airs: CBS, Fridays, 8pm
Episode: “Personal Effects”

Review: When we last left Team One, everything was coming apart at the seams. And it was all thanks to the decision – for better or worse – of Sergeant Parker. But while Parker is contemplating the blow back of his decision, another team member is facing of much dire situation.

It was a shock to every viewer (including myself) when Ed was shot at the end of the last episode. And while I was hoping for something other than five out of seven bullets hitting his vest, what we got instead was the side of Ed that, until this episode, has not received enough play… The family side.

Instead of the mirror of a sniper scope, Ed’s critical incident took place in the eyes of his wife and their unborn child. Hugh Dillon is a powerhouse of acting in this episode, filling every scene with true emotion that would make anyone with half a soul feel something. Coming off the end of the previous episode, the audience really is flying blind. Gone are the days where you can predict a happy ending.

But while everyone did make it out alive, I have to question if this can really be considered a “happy ending.” Spike’s family life is still a mess, Wordy’s future is iffy at best, Sam and Jules are once again under a microscope and Parker must second-guess every decision he makes which is now under Toth’s watchful eye.

Speaking of Toth, as I said previously, you can never go wrong with Victor Garber. The man puts the “tor” in “actor.” Whether it’s playing father to a double agent working for the CIA, or a military psychologist who specializes in “team dynamics,” you believe that he believes he is the man he says he is with every inch of his being. Here’s hoping this isn’t the last time he makes an appearance.

And while like usual, this episode was great, it isn’t without it’s downside. And that downside is something I am now going to call Jam. The romance card between Sam and Jules has been played once, and that’s all it should be played until the series ends for the final time. Perhaps it comes from the perspective of having watched so many other TV romances, but the idea just feels forced. It was fun once, but the secret relationship angle is growing tired and stale.

Final thoughts: Overall, this episode is in the top five for the series. It was slick and it was powerful. Every moment leaves you breathless, and every performance leaves you on the edge of your seat. And since this (by production and Canadian numbering) is the real premiere of season four, I can only imagine what is still yet to come.

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The Idiot Boxers – Episode 35

Merrill Barr — Mon, 04 Jul 2011 04:01:58 +0000

In this very special episode: Kevin gets caught up with the abundance of Victoria’s Secret pictures of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, so in a moment of brilliance, Merrill brings on Andrew Robsinson to fill in to help talk TV.

[See post to listen to audio]

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Episode Schedule:

What Rocked! [25:00] -What the Idiots liked about True Blood, Falling Skies, Burn Notice, Game of Thrones, Futurama, Louie, The Big C, White Collar, Covert Affairs, Wilfred, Teen Wolf, Blood C, Men of A Certain Age

TV News [10:00] - The latest news about the boob tube

What Sucked! [12:00] - What the Idiots didn’t like about Rookie Blue, Falling Skies, Wilfred, Treme, Royal Pains, Weeds

TV-on-DVD [5:00] - DVDs of Rizzoli & Isles: The Complete First Season, Warehouse 13: Season 2, The Closer: The Complete Sixth Season, Medium: The Seventh and Final Season and Louie: Season One, plus the Idiot Recommendations

SHOW NOTES:

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Awesome iTune logo designed by Benjamin Paine. Check him out at BenjaminPaine.net!

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Idiot Boxers Review: Falling Skies – Grace

Merrill Barr — Mon, 04 Jul 2011 03:00:28 +0000

TV review by Merrill Barr, co-host of The Idiot Boxers

After recovering and “saving” Rick from the aliens, all focus is now turned to the captured skid as Anne attempts to communicate with it. But by the end of the day, things will take an unexpected and frightening turn. And while everyone back at HQ tries to play chit chat with the alien, Tom and his squad with Pope in toe head out to obtain some more transportation in the form of some rad dirk bikes on the outskirts of town. But thanks to an over-zellis Pope, that plan doesn’t go as expected either.

Review: Let’s just cut right to the chase, the introduction of the skids ability to control the actions of anyone wearing a harness is beautiful. And we should all be thankful that the writers also cut right to the chase with the real reason why the aliens used that tactic, now they have kid soldiers that no one is willing to kill. We all knew that was where this element was going, and now who knows what the writers could be cooking up. But that wasn’t the only thing this episode had going for it.

The production is very wisely and openly utilizing that practical alien puppet they have and set, and we should all be thankful for it. The captured skid is quickly becoming a character shrouded in mystery despite being completely open to the rebels, and more importantly the audience. For every time the skid over reacts and sets off the radio, there are three million viewers sitting on their couches with their hands over their mouths or knees at their face in suspense and horror.

We should also hope that the writers continue utilizing the skid’s ability to communicate through Rick. Because if they do, it could open up the possibilities of the skid becoming more and more friendly with the resistance (which I’m 85% sure is where this storyline is going) to the point where it starts going on missions with Tom and the rest of his squad.

It’s also interesting to watch Michael’s transformation from medical professional to cold hearted bastard. In the last episode you really wanted to watch this guy get his M.D. on and save Rick from the harness. But now it just seems like he’s out for blood and for no particular reason on top of that. If anything he just hates the aliens for exposing the true coward that he really is, and I can get behind that as a motive, for sure.

And speaking of wild cards, there is probably no better word to describe Pope than just that, a wild card. We all know that this isn’t the last time we are going to see him, but man does that guy know how to make an exit. To be perfectly honest, it would play much better if when we run into him again we find out he killed the sleeping skids solely for his own personal enjoyment. We should all hope that was the reason because then it will officially cement the man as the Deadpool of the series. Who ever gives Pope what he wants, is the side where his allegiance will lie.

And finally, the action set piece of this episode in the bike shop was excellent. Not for the zombie kids or Pope’s escape, but for a split second moment when Tom enters back into badass John McClain mode and shoots the approaching skid from a moving dirt bike. The more I watch this guy do his thing, the more I fall in love with him.

Episode: Grace (Season 1 Episode 4)

Airs: TNT, Sundays, 10pm

Celluloid Spotlight: Episode 80 – Light of The Bay

Merrill Barr — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 04:00:22 +0000

In this episode, Merrill tries to find a fresh pair of pants while Hash copes with having his life take over by Google as the two of them discuss Merrill’s favorite director, Michael Bay… GET READY TO BE AWESOMEIFIED!

[See post to listen to audio]
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Music:
House On A Hill by 405

Links:
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Voicemail: 516-336-8311

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Idiot Boxers Review: Falling Skies – Prisoner of War

Merrill Barr — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 03:00:45 +0000

TV review by Merrill Barr, co-host of The Idiot Boxers

Now that The Second Massachusetts has had some time to settle into their new home, it’s time to head back out into the field. And this might be the hardest missions they are going to have to face because Tom and his squad have been tasked to retrieve Toms captured son when a doctor arrives that thinks he has come up with a way to remove the alien harnesses from the children. But what they return with is more than anyone bargained for. But while they’re off fighting aliens, Pope is back at home base fighting off the stench of really bad cooking.

Review: It’s not often that I can say the third episode of a series is the best one, but damn if Falling Skies isn’t daring me to say it today.

Usually the reason the pilot of a series is the most action packed and best looking is because it has three times the budget of any other episode in the series. But it honestly feels like the production team was holding the majority of their money for this episode, because this is the episode where we got much more than we bargained for.

Enough beating around the vague bush, that fight between Tom and the skid was adrenaline rushing, and on par with any action beat I’ve seen in any of the current summer blockbusters. But what makes it even better; we actually get a real first look at the aliens in the series.

There were no silhouettes, no half shadowed faces, the skid we saw in this episode was in full view and freaky to say the least. And that’s not the only great thing. The skid was a real thing. And by that I mean it wasn’t CG. The money for this episode was used very wisely and now the production has a fully articulating animatronics alien puppet to play with. How awesome is that?

But the action wasn’t the only thing at the top of its game because it doesn’t hold a candle to the writing. You could cut the tension during the operating room scene with a harness spike. And that scene is a testament to the wonderful pacing mentioned last week. Before this scene we have a moment of real joy involving Pope and the civilians (which we will get to in a moment). But those smiles quickly fade away and become heart pounding expressions of worry as we hope and pray for the survival of an innocent boy that was just in the wrong place at the wrong time.

As for Pope? What can be said other than the fact that he is an absolute badass. An outlaw that’s also a certified chef, what’s not to love? I ask that question seriously because I can’t think of a single thing. His moments of humor help counterbalance the seriousness of the show and yet, it’s clear to the audience that he could snap at any moment. And that’s the kind of character building a show like this demands.

One final thing before you all go off to rewatch the episode, the representation of military organization and tactics in this episode is superb. Right from the first scene in John F. Kennedy High School, we are reminded that this is a war zone and these people are soldiers. When the commander gives his speech about it being time to start gathering hard data on the enemy, it reminds us all that while we are here to be entertained, the characters are living this event for real, and they want us to be right there with them.

Episode: Prisoner of War (Season 1 Episode 3)

Airs: TNT, Sundays, 10pm

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