Eclectic Pop

Tyrant | A shocking close to the first season, the finale was a game changer that left viewers on the precipice of a grim outcome. Ashraf Barhom’s sensational performance as the despotic Jamal was sensational as was Morian Atias’ turn as Leila, her closing monologue providing a chilling allocation of revenge. As the hour transpired with riveting repercussions, it made a phenomenal case for a second chapter. “Tyrant” has been a must-see, one of the year’s best new dramas and a stunning accomplishment for FX. 

Saying goodbye was sadder than expected. Known for its bawdy camp, out of this world storytelling and vulgar abandon, “True Blood” signed off in a manner that felt appropriate despite being an about face from the overall tone of the series. All the while possessing the qualities most finales should strive for: closure, a glimpse into the future and a sense that a long crazy ride had been worth hanging on for.

Storyline Direction Pros: For 10 episodes Noah Hawley’s complex character study and straightforward plot progression, took viewers through the frostily riveting race towards a reckoning. In Hawley’s quest to investigate the dark side of humanity he also infused the simpler side of the human condition.

Malvo, a deranged hit man, and Lester, a bashful insurance salesman proved to be the linchpins of the season, as their cat-and-mouse game of psychological subterfuge and violent confrontations made for an ever-intriguing mystery. Who would come out on top? It was the question at the heart of the series’ neo-noir story.

There have been a few changes made to the original novel, such as the lead character Jonas being aged from 11 to the more cinematically opportune 16. “The Giver” is anchored by veteran talents, the stupendous Jeff Bridges and Oscar titan Meryl Streep, who takes on a sinister role as the film’s villain.

“True Blood” star Alexander Skarsgard is also in the mix along with music superstar Taylor Swift, in a hopefully more fleshed out role than her part in “Valentine’s Day”. For readers who’ve longed to see the book come to life, it’s been a considerable waiting period and meeting loyal fans’ expectations could prove challenging. For non-readers it’s a chance to take in yet another movie revolving around teenagers battling a dystopian (or in this case “utopian”) society.

Also Opening:

“The Expendables 3” Sylvester Stallone and Jason Statham are back with the latest installment in the “Expendables” franchise and they’ve brought another bevy of 80’s and 90’s action stars with them; including Wesley Snipes, Antonio Banderas and Harrison Ford. While some viewers might be worn out by the premise, it has yet to get boring, personally. A chance to see a multitude of these nostalgic stars in one movie and in some cases, squaring off for the first time, still elicits excitement. 

"Let's Be Cops" stars FOX's "New Girl" co-stars Jake Johnson and Damon Wayans Jr. as a pair of buddies who decide to fake being cops after being in costume for a sorority party gets them mistaken for the real thing. Buddy movies can often give way to some hilarious hi-jinks and it's directed by Luke Greenfield who brought audiences the raunchy 2004 comedy "The Girl Next Door" so it sounds promising.

Pretty Little Liars: Hanna’s downward spiral continued as her fellow Liar’s finally seemed to notice something was amiss. Caleb, who had previously been a positive influence on her, is also backsliding and the two seem destined for a personal oblivion at this juncture.