Song Lyric of the Day:
You’d kill yourself for recognition; kill yourself to never ever stop. / You broke another mirror; you’re turning into something you are not.
Radiohead / “High & Dry”
10:09AM.
TV has been really great lately. There are the obvious reasons, of course–“Lost,” “Alias,” “Desperate Housewives” (finally new episodes!), and my favorite comedy, “Arrested Development.”
“Scrubs” has also been one of my favorite comedies since it premiered back in October 2001. This show has always been a brilliantly surreal mix of slapstick comedy, clever puns, oddball characters, and flights of fancy. Add in to the mix emotional storylines that can have you crying and laughing in the same scene; the show’s writing team is hands-down one of the best working on scripted shows right now–proof that the scripted half-hour sitcom is not yet dead. It really is a shame more people don’t watch (ditto “AD”). Since I’m so personally invested in this show, it was with great dismay that I watched Carla reveal to Turk that she had kissed J.D. in the episode “My Lips Are Sealed,” furthering the rift that had begun developing between them. I hope Carla and Turk can work through their marital problems; they have always been such a genuine depiction of a working couple, I would hate to see their marriage fall apart after only one year. Rich might end up having to talk me down if that happens.
After “Scrubs,” Rich joins me to watch “The Office.” I never saw the British original, whose star/co-creator, Ricky Gervais, is a co-producer on the American version, but I am thoroughly enjoying the American adaptation. I was first made aware of lead Steve Carrell through The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, but have really been a fan since his scene-stealing turn in “Bruce Almighty.” He’s perfectly cast as Michael, the absolutely clueless boss at Dunder Mifflin paper comapny’s Scranton, PA, office. Rich and I really enjoy the show’s pseudo-documentary format, which is a wonderful device for observing the office’s daily happenings and getting to know the characters. I’m also really enjoying Rainn Wilson‘s egomaniacal Dwight, having been a fan of his since his days as oddball Arthur on Six Feet Under. John Krasinski (Jim) is also another one to watch. Whether he’s egging Dwight on or talking to his not-so-secret love, Pam (Jenna Fischer), Jim is the office’s de facto leader. I also think he (and, by extension, his relationship with Pam) is the show’s heart. Rich and I are really hoping that this show catches on with the viewing public, because we are enjoying it so much we would hate to see it go so soon. Here’s hoping its six episode run is just a precursor to a longer season next year.
Last, I’d like to send out my best wishes to ABC World News Tonight anchor Peter Jennings, who announced yesterday he is suffering from lung cancer. I have been watching his nightly newscasts since I can remember (thanks, Mom!), and hope he makes a full recovery.
