TV CATCH UP

Vladimir, DTF St. Louis, Ladies of London and more

Hi! Guys, we have so much to review. It’s nice to be in a good TV zone. I’m going to savor this feeling in August when I’m watching The Rookie on ABC because it’s the only thing I haven’t seen.

I’m listening to this song on repeat Dirty Wedding Dress by The Bleachers. I just can’t quit Jack Antonoff. Can you?

I just finished my 20th of 24 Freida McFadden books. I want to release a definitive ranking when I’ve read all of them. Her books are like watching 911. Wacko, insane, kind of poorly written, but nonstop drama and twists. I can’t quit Freida McFadden, can you?

Oh also! I went to a Survivor episode screening for a Rob Has a Podcast recording in Los Angeles. Episode 3 was one of the most entertaining episodes of Survivor I’ve ever seen. The interpersonal connections and behind-the-scenes drama discussed were titillating. Watching with 900 other fans and actual survivor contestants in the audience added to the THRILL. I didn’t love the podcast recording itself. There were many guests and it was set up like a panel. It’s a like watching awkward small talk on stage. (Never forget the Mariska Hargitay/ Bradley Whitford panel I saw where they just flirted the whole time). I might be-anti panel unless it’s 2-3 people having a discussion on stage. How bout you?

Ok let’s talk business.

• Vladimir (Netflix) - Without Rachel Weisz, this portrayal of an older female professor’s obsession with her younger male counterpart would be off-putting. But WITH Rachel W (kind of a hard last name to type. Is s before z or what?), it’s a major romp. Her delivery is unmatched and she goes all-in with her wacky antics. She’s giving Countess Luann meets Meredith Marks. A-

• DTF St. Louis (HBO Max) - Almost unbearably awkward dialog (by design) with a murder mystery tacked on. I think the show is trying to be a little too cheeky for my liking. B-

• RJ Decker (Hulu) - Carl Hiaasen-heads rejoice!! The perfect Florida detective show. RJ lives in a trailer that falls into a sinkhole, there are insane characters galore, and of course, a complicated and handsome leading man. Florida man brought to life by the best. A-

• Ted (Peacock)- I love this hilarious cutie raunchy comedy. It’s just plain fun. A-

• Rooster (HBO Max)- You know I love a Bill Lawrence joint (especially Cougar Town) but this one’s not for me. Fun to see actors from his other shows as other characters, though. C+

• Marshals (Paramount+)- New Taylor Sheridan show. I did not connect with the Kayce Dutton spinoff or it’s false portrayal of Montana. A quote from episode 1: “Honey, there’s three things you need to know about Montana. Don’t pet the buffalo, don’t try to out drink the Canadians, and don’t mess with a cowboy’s music.” Huh?? Maybe I just miss Lioness. Is that coming back? C

• Sunny Nights (Hulu)- Will Forte and D’Arcy Carden star as a brother sister duo starting a self tanner company in Australia. They accidentally get involved with the criminal underbelly of Sydney and chaos ensues. You’d think these esteemed comedians would thrive with this off-kilter narrative, but they fall flat. B-

The new Bravo star to watch, Martha Sitwell

• Ladies of London (Peacock) - OH MY. I loved the original LoL but this one is even better. I love the combination of American expats with English “socialites”. I would watch a show about Martha alone. She has a bird, she gives her house keys to people on the street (extremely concerning), and she lives in a rundown apartment. She’s rags to riches and riches to rags. A

• I’m also watching Southern Hospitality, Southern Charm, Summer House, and Beverly Hills. I can’t wait for the Southern Charm reunion this week.

• Age of Attraction (Netflix)- I don’t dislike this show just because I dislike Nick Viall. I dislike it for a myriad of other reasons, including the dead-eyed stare all the male contestants seem to share. C-

I’ll report back on books next time, but go to my Instagram [charcharmw] where I have a highlight of all my book reviews this year so far.

ALSOOO IN MOVIE NEWS. Project Hail Mary is OUTSTANDING A+ ALERT.

Ok bye TTFN ta ta for now. -Char