John’s top 10 TV shows of 2024
2024 television: Network shows held on to some viewers thanks to diversity of main characters and premises, but streaming and premium channels continued to dominate.
ABC
‘High Potential,’ ‘Brilliant Minds,’ ‘Penguin’ showcase diverse brains
First episode impressions (TV reviews): Good ole comfort TV is also on the docket this fall, with “Murder in a Small Town,” “Rescue: HI-Surf” and “Doctor Odyssey.”
Fall TV preview 2024: 10 shows I wouldn’t mind watching
Fall TV preview: Fall TV is still a thing (sort of), so here are 10 new shows that might be worth checking out.
Reeve, Hannah make ‘Rear Window’ (1998) better than it should be
On a Hitchcock kick (Movie review): Proving that a quadriplegic can get a decent role, this remake of a perfect film has its own reason for existing.
John’s top 10 TV shows of 2023
2023 television: A couple of old-school network shows break into the streaming-dominated list of my favorite series of the year.
‘My So-Called Life’ (1994-95) probes hearts, minds of ’90s teens
One-season wonders (TV review): It only took 19 episodes for Winnie Holzman’s show to earn well-deserved status as an all-time great teen drama.
The age-old ‘My So-Called Life’ debate: Jordan or Brian?
TV commentary: It’s the most unresolved love triangle in TV history, but that’s why it stands as one of the best. We break down Angela’s options.
‘Don’t Drink the Water’ adapted poorly (1969) and, well, better (1994)
Woody Wednesday (Movie reviews): Neither version is outstanding, but if you watch one, definitely track down the 1994 movie that comes directly from Allen.
‘Alaska Daily’ puts spotlight on modern investigative reporting
First episode impressions (TV review): “Spotlight” was a thank-you letter to probing journalism; now “Alaska Daily” shows why it’s still important.
Crichton’s directorial career begins in not-so-hot ‘Pursuit’ (1972)
Michael Crichton Monday (Movie review): The author starts his pursuit of a directorial career, but it’s not exactly hot pursuit in this bland thriller.