September Favorites

I'm Back!

It’s the end of the month which means it’s time of my monthly favorites! Here are few of the things I have been gushing over this month!

The Hour winning at the Emmy’s

Oh my good golly goodness! I cannot tell you how exciting that moment was! My favorite show, the underdog of the competition, won! It was definitely a much deserved win for Abi Morgan and her absolutely outstanding writing. But, what could this mean for the show? BBC are you listening? Bring back our show, please!

The Radio 1 Breakfast Show with Nick Grimshaw

I do adore Grimmy! If you haven’t listened to this radio program, you most certainly need too! It’s witty, entertaining, and positively hilarious; I look like a nutter laughing so hard. Nick, Fiona, Ian, Matt, and Showbot make a great team that keeps me amused all morning long.

Rimmel London Kate Moss Lipstick

I love these lipsticks. They are long lasting, creamy, and look absolutely beautiful. The line has every color I could possible want and more. I adore a red lip, and this lipstick is always my go to. A burgundy lip is perfect with any autumn color pallet making it a must have this time of year. My favorite (and most used) color is 111 Kiss of Life.

Covergirl Instant Cheekbones in Sophisticated Stable 

I put this in the What’s In My Makeup Bag post, but I have to mention it again. This blusher is everything! I don’t feel complete without it on. The color matches my skin tone perfectly, helps to create an even finish, and makes a perfect contour.

Pumpkins 

Ok, this may seem weird, but I have been going crazy for pumpkin this month! Of course, I have been head over heals for the return of Pumpkin Spice Latte, but I have also been going crazy making pumpkin desserts. From pumpkin chocolate chip bread to cheesecake to dip, I just can’t get enough pumpkin!   

Read More

Film Anticipation for 2013

Hiya!

Welcome back all you beautiful people! So, as we all know this time of the year is when the best films grace our screen. With award season just around the corner, filmmakers release their film so they're fresh in the minds of the voter, which means I get to spend the rest of the year bathed in beautiful cinema! Here are my top five most anticipated films for the rest of 2013!

 Kill Your Darlings

I have watched this trailer… Oh, about two million times. I cannot wait one more day for this movie. Everything about it looks amazing! Firstly, the cast. From the reviews I have read, Dane DeHaan steals the show with his manipulative and condescending performance. But, of course, I’m most looking forward to seeing my favorite person in the world, Daniel Radcliffe. His performance looks captivating and authentic. I’m always a big supporter of Radcliffe in all of his endeavors, but I genuinely think this film will be his shinning performance. After this film I don't think anyone will see him a little old Harry Potter anymore. The rest of the cast is made up of fantastic actors from Michael C. Hall to Elizabeth Olsen (If you haven’t seen Martha Marcy May Marlene, go now. Olsen’s performance was outstanding). 

But now, John Krokidas, the director. Wow! This up and coming director is defiantly one to watch. I can’t even express how beautiful this film looks… Just by the trailer, I may add. The atmosphere created by Krokidas, from the sets to the costumes to the tone, is what draws the viewer into this world as if it’s real. I love films that give me that feeling of beauty, art, and life; this film certainly gives me that special tingle. This is the art of film making at its best! Hopefully Krokidas gets the praise he deserves during this year’s award season. I absolutely cannot wait for the day I get to sit in the cinema and enjoy this beautiful film. 

The Fifth Estate

I have a massive sweet spot for Benedict Cumberbatch. Don't we all?! He is such a talented actor which is shown off beautifully here. I tweeted a few weeks ago that I could tell that this was going to be one of Benedict’s best performances, just by the trailer. He completely becomes Julian Assange. (Figures crossed for an Oscar nomination.) I recently finished reading Daniel Domscheit-Berg’s novel about his experience with WikiLeaks. Daniel gives a clear picture of who Assange is as a person and how manipulative and paranoid he truly is. I’m looking forward to seeing how Benedict portrays the multiple layers of Julian; he will definitely be the standout in this film. Benedict is joined by a cast of skilled actors from Laura Linney to David Thewlis. Bill Condon’s direction looks grim and grunge, the perfect setting for these anarchist hackers.

If you haven't heard, WikiLeaks, presumably lead by Julian, is on full attack against this film. I'm extremely interested to see how this WikiLeaks vs. The Fifth Estate rivalry will pan out. Do some Google-ing to find out more—it’s quite fascinating.   

 BEAT

This one may be cheating because A) It’s a short film, and B) I don’t even know when it’s being released, but I just had to add it in. This short has been all other the place in regards to film festivals, and I am super jealous of those who have seen it. I put this short on my list because I believe it will show Ben Whishaw at his best. The plot is simple: a man is on the verge of despondency, testing the limitations of life. Ben Whishaw stars (No surprise why it’s on my list now, right?) as this erratic, unstable man. I always look forward to seeing Ben stretching his acting skills and performing to the max. He never ceases to disappoint, and I am highly looking forward to seeing how he creates this challenged character.

If you love Ben Whishaw as much I do, check out the post I wrote about our favorite woodland animal here!

August: Osage County

Now, I can’t say I know too much about this movie. I never had the chance to see the play, from which it is based, so needless to say I was excited to see they were making a movie. The plot follows the Weston family as they come back together following a family crisis. I always find something compelling about a dysfunctional family dramas; my IMDB Watchlist is full of them. But, what I am really looking forward to is the incredible cast. Maryl Streep. Need I say more? Maryl plays the overbearing, unbalanced mother that created this ruined family. The family is complied of some of my favorite actors (Uh oh, there’s that little rascal Cumberbatch again), and I can’t wait to see them all on screen together.   

One Chance

This movie looks fantastic. I was genuinely surprised to see how much I liked the trailer. This film is essentially about a man who has a passion for singing. He goes to university and is told he will never make it as a singer. Later in his life, he attends an audition for Britain's Got Talent,  which may finally make his dreams a reality. This movie looks really heartwarming and sweet. I love James Corden; I think he is really funny and clever. I can relate to this character’s struggle of following his dreams because I have a dream of being an actor, so I can connect on a personal with this character. This movie looks funny and sweet and will touch me right to the core! I can’t wait to see it.

There are so many great films coming out this year, and I can't wait to see them all! Check back later for a full review on these and other new films. Leave a comment below and tell me what movies you are most looking forward to seeing for the remainder of 2013!

Read More

What's In My [Makeup] Bag!

Bonjour!

This week I thought I’d share with you what’s inside my makeup bag. I love makeup, probably too much. So needless to say, I have a lot of it. But we all have those those certain products that we just can’t get tired of. You know, those products that you put on and you just fall in love. Here are some of my "fall in love" products I use daily.

Baking Soda: Weird thing to have in your makeup bag, right? Think again! Combining baking soda and water makes an awesome exfoliating scrub. I use this mask once a week for about three to five minutes to help remove the dead skin on the surface of my skin. Top tip: If you’re like me and suffer from those dreaded acne scars, this and a daily dose of vitamin E will help to make those spots disappear.  

Maybelline Eyeshadow: I love Maybelline’s eyeshadow! I probable have every quad pallet there is. The colors are exceptionally pigmented and come in both matte and shimmer, not to mention they're long-lasting. I never have a problem with this eyeshadow disappearing during the day. The pallets come in almost every color you can imagine; my favorites being Plum Smokes, Bronze Haze, and Natural Smokes.

Covergirl Instant Cheekbones in Sophisticated Stable: I’m not typically a fan of Covergirl products, but I do love this blusher. It’s shimmery, yet not over powering, and looks great as a contour. Plus, the color goes perfectly with my skin tone (not many colors do).  Also, having an option of three colors is always a bonus. 

 Maybelline Fit Me Concealer: I have a lot of imperfections, which means I need a lot of concealer. I need a concealer that will fully cover my acne spots and any redness caused by it (which is quite a lot). This concealer is creamy and super easy to blend. The pigmentation removes any trace of redness, which is really what keeps me coming back. I also have a difficult skin color to match, but I can always find my right color in this line. Top Tip: This concealer is a great duplicate for the MAC cream concealer, and it’s a whole lot cheaper.       

Maybelline Eyestudio Gel Eyeliner: I don’t know who I would be without gel eyeliner, and this one is just perfect. The formula is creamy, easy to put on, and it doesn't move all day. This line comes in multiple of colors, my favorites being the black and brown, and comes with its own brush which is actually quite nice. I personally prefer this liner to the MAC gel liner. 

Clinique Even Better Foundation: Since I have dull skin, this foundation gives me an amazing glow. It highlights in the best places giving off that nice dewy look (which we all know is a huge trend right now). It’s long lasting so it will stay in place all day. The formula is so light-weight that I can hardly remember it’s on.

Makeup Forever HD Primer in Green: This primer is a miracle worker! Like I said earlier, I suffer from really bad acne scars, and they become much more obvious when I’m wearing makeup. This primer helps to smooth my skin and blur out those horrible pits. I notice a massive difference from when I use the primer and when I don’t. This primer also comes in a series of colors that help to make your skin even more flawless. I use the green to help diminish the appearance of redness.    

Vaseline Lip Therapy: I use this every night right before I go to bed. It’s great for smoothing and healing dry lips. The formula is strong so you know you are putting your lips in the best of care. I wouldn't recommend using this during the day because it is awfully sticky and very thick. I usually wear Chapstick underneath my lipstick during the day to keep my lips smooth.  

Clinique High Impact Mascara: I love mascara. If I could only wear one makeup product for the rest of my life, it would be mascara. I have short lashes so this mascara really helps to add length and definition. The product doesn't clump, nor does it run. The wand is super thick which gives my lashes that extra “umph” I'm looking for. 

 Rimmel London Stay Matte Powder: I have been using this powder since I started wearing makeup. I have tried so many other powders, but I always find myself returning to this one. It keeps my foundation in place and looking fresh all day. It doesn't cling to my imperfections like loose powders does, but gives me a more flawless look. The casing is also compact so it can be carried anywhere for a quick touch-up during the day. 

So there you have just a few of my favorite makeup products. I have so many other great products that I use daily, but these are the my absolute diehard favorites. Comment below and tell me your holy grail beauty product.  

   

Don’t forget: The Emmy Awards air tonight at 8e/5p on CBS. Let’s all join in a pray circle for our favorite nominees, The Hour and Mr. Cumberbatch! There is sure to be great fashion and beautiful makeup to look forward to. Plus, Neil Patrick Harris is hosting so that will most definitely be hilarious. 

Read More

Harry Lives Again!

Happy Sunday!

Hi there! So, I had this week’s post all planned out and ready to go… But then Thursday happened. Now, unless you live under a rock, I would presume you have heard this beautiful news. A NEW WIZARDING WORLD SERIES!! We’re going home, friends! The Harry Potter gods are smiling down upon us! If you don’t have any idea what I’m talking about, here’s the scoop. On Thursday, Warner Brothers announced that JK Rowling’s book, Fantastic Beast and Where to Find Them, will be turned into a film series. So, it’s like a new Harry Potter movies without Harry. Not only were we graced with this wonderful news, BUT (make sure you’re sitting down) Jo Rowling is penning the script herself! I repeat, JK Rowling is writing the actual script, the one read by the actors, her words read aloud on screen. Life is beautiful!

As you can obviously tell I am a massive Harry Potter fan. Harry has been in my life for as long as I can remember. The first movie I ever saw in theaters was Philosopher’s Stone, and I’m pretty sure I have been Hermione Grange for Halloween since I was born—Okay, maybe not that long. Harry, Ron, and Hermione have been there for me my whole life; they’re my best friends. So, as I went to the theater, in my Hogwarts robes, for the final time, I was completely devastated. What will I do now that Harry is gone?! It may be melodramatic, but part of my life ended when those end credits appeared. But here we are, about to embark again to the Wizarding World.

So, I’m just going to put this out there now—I didn't read the books till 2007. I was a die hard movie fan. Please don’t hate me! I hated reading as a kid, and those massive books scared. Plus, I was so young when the franchise started. Then I read them, I loved them, and now I regret not reading them sooner. I didn't really get to experience the magic until it was over, seeing as Deathly Hallows came out that same year. I have since repented, and as of today, I've read through the series twice and Deathly Hallows about four times. 

Okay, let’s start from the beginning. I was about six when Philosopher’s Stone came out in theaters. Because I was so young, I can’t remember much about my first Potter experience. But I’m sure I thought it was total awesome and that Daniel Radcliffe was so cute (I clearly, I had good taste as a six year old).

Aw, look at how cute they are! 

I can’t remember much of my early Harry Potter years.  I do remember one night my dad bought a new DVD player and a copy of Chamber of Secrets. My sister and I stayed up all night watching it. We would reenact the Dueling Club scene all the time— we may or may not still reenact the Dueling Club scene. She was Malfoy and I was Harry; it was kinda awesome. Then when Prisoner of Azkaban came out, we would memorize Fred and George’s line. Our favorite part was when they give Harry the Marauder’s Map; we had that scene down perfectly. I guess this is where my passion for acting started. I would study how Emma acted as Hermione, and then copy it. I loved memorizing the lines and performing the movie with the actors in my living room. I watched the Goblet of Fire bonus features religiously. I always love watching the behind the scenes footage to see how the film was made, what the actors did on set, how much fun they had. I wanted so badly to be at Leavesden’s with them. They looked so cool, and I would dream of the day when I got to be on a film set.

In school my partner in crime, Briannah, was also a massive fan. One day, out of the blue, she started saying the word “pickle” over and over very quickly. When I questioned her about said pickle ranting she replied with the term MuggleCast. Hence forth, a new nerd obsession began! For those who don’t know, MuggleCast is a fan made podcast where a fan panel discusses the Harry Potter books and movies. It’s probably the best podcast ever. (For those wondering, the pickle thing came from one of the host’s obsession with pickles; it became a running joke.) I discovered MuggleCast right after the Half-Blood Prince film came out. I listened to all 160 episodes within a matter a weeks. The show was hilarious and it quenched my thirst for someone to talk to about Potter. MuggleCast became a big part of my life, and it made me ventured into this crazy place called a fandom. It was beautiful and wonderful and magical. The hosts were my best friends, I relied on MuggleNet.com to deliver my HP news every day, and the fandom made me love Harry Potter even more than I did before. (And this fandom also created A Very Potter Musical. It’s pretty much everything I love: Harry Potter, singing, dancing, Darren Criss, rolled into one. If you haven’t seen A Very Potter Musical or A Very Potter Squeal, go now and watch it. Your life will be improved greatly. God bless, StarKid.)

Next came Pottermore. I remember everyone went CRAZY when Pottermore was announced. I got up at five in the morning just to get a spot in the beta. To have more of Jo’s writing was something we all craved since Deathly Hallows, and now we got it. *cough cough* Even though an encyclopedia would be better. *cough cough*. "The fandom lives," everyone shouted! What makes Jo so wonderful is that she has a back story for everything. She has all this information hidden away, taunting us, never to be seen. But here was our chance to get to know our favorite characters even better than before. I got sorted into Slytherin, which upon seeing this was very disappointed, and then I realized I am very much a Slytherin. Obviously, I’m not evil and won't try to take over the world, but pretty much everything else related to Slytherin House is me. So, there goes Jo, psychoanalyzing people, knowing more things about me then I do. Briannah got sorted into Hufflepuff. I literally witnessed her go through the five stages of grieve upon finding out. Clearly, she’s a Hufflepuff. This is what Harry Potter does to people. 

Last year I had the fantastic privilege of going to Warner Brother’s The Making of Harry Potter Studio Tour. Long story short, I cried. I literally cried. Like mascara everywhere crying. (Remember I'm a heartless Slytherin.) It was beautiful. I fulfilled by girlhood dream of going to the set and being a part of the magic. I got to walk into the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s office, and down Diagon Alley. I touched Daniel Radcliffe’s costume! I saw Hogwarts! I never wanted to leave. To any HP fan that hasn't been there, it’s amazing and you need to go. It was best experience of my life, and nothing will trump that as the best day ever. 

Click here to read my post about my fantastic day at the Harry Potter Studio Tour!

It’s so hard to put into word what Harry Potter has meant to me over the years. He has been there through every change in my life. I can only remember when major life events took place by which book/movie came out. Harry and his friends mean the world to me. They have shaped who I am as a person. Not only have Harry, Ron, and Hermione changed me for the better, but also Dan, Rupert, and Emma. I aspire to be like them. Emma is my role model. She has so much respect for herself, and that’s important for young girls to see. Yes, she’s stunning and fashionable, but she’s smart and is furthering her education by going to Uni. Daniel has a fantastic career. He is an extremely hard worker, and creates beautiful work. Rupert has an ice cream van and a hover craft. Like he’s the coolest person ever. They are all so respectable and well-rounded; I have so much admiration for them. They have proved that being a child star doesn't have to make you crazy. But, I won’t get into my love for my real life trio just yet. That post will come later, don’t worry.

So here are again. We are about to embark on a new journey with new friends. I guess I’ll have to dust off my robes for the next premiere. Ah, there’s something I never thought I would say again! I am so excited to be going back into our wonderful world of magic. Like our Queen Jo said, “The stories we love best do live in us forever, so whether you come back by page or by the big screen, Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home.”


Leave a comment below and tell me about your favorite Harry Potter experience, what Harry means to you, or what you’re most excited for in Fantastic Beasts.

Keep up to date with all the happenings of Fantastic Beasts via Hypable.com. http://www.hypable.com/2013/09/12/new-harry-potter-movies-fantastic-beasts-jk-rowling/

Yes, my dog is a proud Gryffindor! She is just too cute!

Photo Credit: harrypotter.wikia.com, wikipedia.org, kids.britannica.com, thinkingofrob.com, blog.complete.me, twitter.com

Read More

My Fashion Inspiration | The Duchess of Cambridge

Hello Again!

Welcome back everyone! My first fashion post is here! I have been contemplating all week as to what I was going to share with you guys. So, I decided to let you get to know me better as a fashionista. I have a very classic style: solid colors, simple prints, button up and pencil skirts, nothing too flashy. I love elegance and simplicity. But as the title reads, this isn't about my style, but about the style of the women who inspire me. This post is going to be a series about the fashion icons that send me to the stores each week. This first lady is one of the classiest woman around. We all love her simple style that never seems to go wrong; she is a natural. She’s a modern princess with a classic style.

Catherine Duchess of Cambridge

I love Kate! That’s it. She’s a wonderful role model, she has a happy marriage, she’s practical with her clothing, and she always looks perfect. We can all admit, we melt at the heart when we see Wills and Kate together. But besides her marriage to the future king, we love Kate for her practicality of dress. Kate strives to keep the normal life she had before she became a royal. Yes, she wears Mulberry and Alexander McQueen, but she also wears Topshop and Zara. I mean, I shop at the same stores as a Duchess, how crazy is that! She recycles clothing, a definite thumbs up in my book, and she even does her own hair and makeup! Kate is a wonderful person with a big heart; a true inspiration.

Without further ado, here are [some] of my favorite Kate looks! 

 Peach Dress: Private dress maker

Coat: Tara Jarmon

I love this outfit! It has to be one of my all time favorites. The peach looks beautiful on her and those brown locks look perfect. I am obsessed with these coral tones, as well. Like, I need this dress for myself! This outfit is definitely why I love Kate’s style: Simple yet makes a massive impact.

Dress: Alexander McQueen

Hat: Jane Taylor

I love this all nude look! The lace embellishment gives the dress a lady-like feel. Kate looks simply stunning in this dress; probably outshining the Queen during her Jubilee. Kate definitely has the “queen” factor. And of course, I love her hat! The English really know how to wear great hats.

 Dress: Jenny Packham

Shoes: LK Bennett

This look is the epitome of class. That parasol (perfect, by the way!) makes her look like a vintage movie star. The dress is so gorgeous; the pleated skirt looks like a work of art! Whenever I’m feeling low in my fashion life, I look at this picture and it reminds me: Always stay classy, never tacky.

 Dress: Mulberry

Shoes: Stuart Weitzman

I am a sucker for navy blue. Virtually every dress I own is navy blue, so natural I was going to love this dress. The collar is adorable and the fabric is on par. But what I love most about this look is her hair. She went all natural with her hair. Although it’s big and poofy, she owns it! She’s confident about herself no matter what, and that’s what makes her such a wonderful role model.

Dress: Alexander McQueen

Shoes: LK Bennett

Last year I had to go to a golf party. I was torn about what to wear, and then I found this outfit. “I must have it!” I said. I was on a mission to recreate this look. That is what makes Kate a fashion icon. When you find yourself wanting to recreate a look, you know you love their style.

Dress: Topshop

Shoes: LK Bennett

£38! This dress is £38! I could go out and buy this dress (although it sold out within hours). She is so sensible with clothing, it’s amazing! I love the polka dots as well. I have been on a hunt for either a dress similar to this one or her blue polka dress from after George was born. Unfortunately, I haven’t been too successful. Plus, I absolutely love it when William, Harry, and Kate do outings together. I imagine them to be really great friends. They are just too adorable.    

Shirt: Team GB

Not only are Kate’s dresses impeccable, but she has a superb sense for everyday wear. Her looks during the 2012 Olympics where causal yet still polished. She supported Team GB with polo tees and dressed with a cute sporty vibe. Her everyday looks allow for people, like me, to mimic her outfits without looking like we’re going to a ball. Her, Wills and Harry clearly had a great time at the events, and they supported their country to victory.

Coat: Mulberry

Shoes: LK Bennett

Mint is definitely in this season, and Kate pulled it off fabulously. Kate looked radiant in this Mulberry coat that hid her growing baby bump. This coat goes great with her neutral accessories: the brown fascinator, gold clutch, and nude pumps.

 Dress: Jenny Packham

A tribute to Princess Diana, Kate’s post baby polka dots were spotless (mind the pun). William and Kate matched in light blue to announce to the world baby Cambridge was a boy! And she’s wearing pumps! She just gave birth and she’s wearing pumps! I have no excuse to avoid heels now; Kate sets the bar high for us fashionistas. William and Kate are going to be great parents to little George; I can’t wait to see how handsome he will be. 

  Dress: Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen

Last but not least, Kate’s wedding dress. William and Kate’s fairy tale wedding was marveled at by millions around the world. From the lace sleeves to the train, this dress was perfection. She looked absolutely beaming as she walked down the aisle, and William absolutely seemed to approve. It was a true romantic moment, and I think we all fell in love with their love. I hope I look that gorgeous and happy on my wedding day.       

Phew! So many outfits, so little time. Of course, these aren't all of my favorite Kate looks, but we would be here forever if I selected them all. From highstreet to fashion houses, Kate really knows how to dress to perfection. I truly believe that Kate is a great role model and person. She is devoted to charities and works to help, never hinder. I admire her for far more than just her fashion sense. I can’t wait to see more of Kate’s fabulous outfits—maybe even some cute baby looks too.    

Read More

September Watch List

Pinch Punch First of the Month!

(Happy first day back to Hogwarts to all you wizards out there!)

It's the beginning of a new month! And that means a new watch list! This month's watch list features some of my current favorite British shows. I have been completely caught up in British fever this summer, what with the 60th anniversary of the Queen's coronation, Andy Murray's win at Wimbledon, and, of course, the birth of little Prince George. But when am I not caught up in British fever?! So here are some of the shows that I have been totally gushing over! 

Broadchurch

Britain's most talked about show this year, Broadchurch centers around the murder of an eleven year old boy in the small town of Broadchurch. After murder victim Danny's body is found on the beach, DCI Alec Hardy (Doctor Who's David Tennant) and detective Ellie Miller (Olivia Colman) are forced to play a game of "whodunit" in order to find the anonymous killer. Broadchurch offers a suspenseful story accompanied by superb acting. Be prepared for your jaw to drop. 
  

Why It's A Must Watch: The Story

This story grabs you and never lets go. You don't know who to trust or what to believe.Everyone is a suspect, but who is the killer?  I love a good mystery show, and this show delivers. What makes Broadchurch unique, in my eyes, is the story doesn't drop off after the climax, but allows the aftermath of the case to be seen. You'll never want to stop watching!

Currently airing on BBC America Wednesday's at 10/9c 

Downton Abbey

Downton Abbey represents the best of British period dramas. Set on the Yorkshire estate of Downton Abbey in the early decades of the 1900's, the Crowley family and servants help to depict the difference in the lives of the aristocrats and the working. Downton Abbey contains a spew of great characters that brings the drama to this period drama. Garnering multiple awards, Downton Abbey is one of the most critically acclaimed series in Britain. 

Why It's A Must Watch: The Production

Downton Abbey is well know for their outstanding costumes. The dresses worn by the ladies in this show are breathtaking. The styling of the actors is on par, and puts the viewer directly in the mindset of the time period. For anyone who appreciates fashion and styling, this show is a must. Bravo, to the costume and makeup department. Also, Highclere Castle is one of the most important players in this show. Used as the exterior and some interior shot, this castle puts the audience right into the life of the aristocrats.  

Downton Abbey returns to ITV September 22 for it's fourth series

Luther

Following a must watch first series (I nearly had heart failure!), DCI Luther faces even more disasters while bringing down the criminal creeps that puts his and other's lives in danger. This psychological crime drama deals with dark subject matters not intended for a weak stomach.

Why It's A Must Watch: Idris Elba

Starring as John Luther, Idris Elba creates a character that can't be put in a box. Luther suffers guilt, passion, sorrow, destruction; he is suffocated by the job he dedicates his life to. Luther isn't your typical tough detective, but he has a range of emotions that both hinders and helps him. Elba's portal of him is spot on. He makes Luther human, even in his most inhumane moments.  

Series 3 of Luther airs on BBC America beginning September 3rd. 

Parade's End

Yet another well done British period drama, Parade's End is adapted from Ford Madox novel of the same title. Set in the World War I era, this story tracks the lives of Christopher Tietjens and his vindictive wife Syliva. After Christopher encounters Valentine Wannop, a love triangle forms; friendship turns to pent up love for Christopher and Ms. Wannop. All the while, Tietjens is sent to the trench leaving behind all he loves. As a righteous man, will Tietjens follow his heart or his mind?   

Why It's A Must Watch: The Cast

Benedict Cumberbatch holds a very special place in my heart. He is always a trill to watch, and this project is no exception. Christopher Tietjens, who normally a very bland, dry character, is brought to life by Cumberbatch's performance. You feel sorry for his desperately sad character, and you want him to do nothing other than follow his heart. Rebecca Hall's annoyingly brilliant portal of Syliva Tietjens is outstanding. Hall knows just how to make Syliva even more vile each time we see her (I found myself having the urge to slap her in the face). Yet, she keeps her humanity with glimpses into why she's so awful. At points, you can see beyond the mask into the troubled soul she truly is.

The Hour

Set in 1950's Britain, The Hour is centered around a budding new news program of the same name. The show tackles political affairs including the Hungarian Revolution, the Suez Canal Crisis, and the Soviet Missile scare. Freddie Lyon, the home desk reporter for the program, leads his own stories of spies and corruption. Series one follows Freddie as he tries to discover a Soviet spy within the BBC, and series two tracks Freddie's attempt of revealing police corruption within London. This show trails the lives of The Hour's team, love affairs and all. 

Why It's A Must Watch: Everything!

You will find that I talk non-stop about this show. To start, the cast is exquisite. Lead by Ben Whishaw, Dominic West, and Romola Garai, no actor in this cast is under utilized. They all fully embrace their characters and hold nothing back. Everyone brings so much to their characters, that each time I come back I pick up new quirks and personality traits from each character. Each character has a story. Each character has a purpose. From Freddie to Mr. Wengrow, I feel I know each as a friend, a confidant, a colleague. I can understand Bel's frustration at Freddie's persistent arrogance because I know Freddie. I feel Marnie's pain when Hector doesn't come home because I live Marnie's life with her. These characters are impeccable! The story is another aspect that keeps me coming back for more. From the first series uncovering the Soviet spy to the police corruption highlighted in series two, this story never fails to intrigue. I never felt bored or got distracted away from the screen. Subplots keep the story fresh and constantly moving (Bel and Freddie's story line moves me to tears every time). You're constantly keep in anticipation for what will happen next. Finally, the production. From costumes to cinematography, The Hour delivers top quality programming. I find myself wanting to mimic Bel's or Marnie's outfits. Freddie's causal style make me squeal with glee. The direction of this show is probable the reason I want to become a director myself. The clean shots and crisp image is so beautiful that I want to hold it in arms and never let go! And the cinematography, just perfect; I can't even put it into words. The Hour is a definite must watch! 

Now, I shall speak directly to you, The Hour fandom. We shall rise, march on the grounds of the British Broadcasting Cooperation, and demand the shows return! Please BBC, bring this wonderful, beautiful show back! Or at least give us a conclusion! 

             

Doctor Who fans: Peter Capaldi stars in series two as Randall Brown. 

A fantastic performance that will give you faith in your new Doctor.    


Photo Credit: kouchpotato.in, projectfandom.com, posterandphoto.blogspot.com, bbc.co.uk, imdb.com

Read More