#but there’s no milly thompson yet and milly is delightful

[mumblesplash]

which trigun show would you say someone should start on?

depends on what you like i think? if you care a lot about visuals and can easily connect to characters without needing to feel like you Know What’s Going On you’ll probably like stampede, if you care more about plot and like. a more tangible-feeling sense of story and worldbuilding it’s probably best to start with the original

[crowdvscritic]

round up // OCTOBER 20

Hubie Happy Halloween, friends! I’m not sure what October’s been like for you, but here’s a quick summary of my month:

Re-acquainting myself with my collection of (mostly gray and navy blue) sweaters

Ordering an embarrassing—like, I lost count kind of embarassing—number of lattés

Alternating between enjoying the ombré of the fall trees and cozying up with the first logs in the fireplace

Revisiting all-time favorite stories like The Scarlet Pimpernel by the Baroness Orczy, the extended Lord of the Rings movie trilogy, all three seasons of Stranger Things, the 1995 Pride and Prejudice miniseries, and several Harry Potter movies

In short, this month has been all about finding joy in the little things, which is the essence of our search for coziness in autumn. Since these monthly Round Ups only focus on pop culture that’s new to me, that means this month’s list is shorter than usual, but many of the movies and shows feel like warm blankets I’ll return to again. Though, as you’ll see, a few are not…

October Crowd-Pleasers

Enola Holmes (2020)

A movie so charming, I’m on the verge of rewatching even though it’s only been a few weeks. (It’s a rare occurrence for me to return to something so quickly.) It lets a stacked cast of performers known for dramatic roles flex their comedic muscles, including Henry Cavill, Sam Claflin, and—most spectacularly—Millie Bobby Brown. You can read my full review of the new Netflix movie at ZekeFilm. Crowd: 9/10 // Critic: 8/10

Murder, She Wrote (1984-96)

This entry comes with a bit of an asterisk* because Kyla and I watched this murder mystery procedural in 2018 for our podcast, SO IT’S A SHOW? At the time, I was open to watching more episodes, but it was never so easy as with the launch of the Peacock streaming service. All 12 seasons are available in the free tier, and I never thought a show about murder—and in the procedural format, which I don’t typically love—could be so enjoyable. Angela Lansbury’s mystery writer/amateur detective Jessica Fletcher has become a non-ironic role model for me—I aspire to be as gracious, intelligent, humble, uncynical, and assertive. Also, who says I’m not aspiring to spending my 60s writing, traveling, and solving crimes while wearing a fabulous collection of cardigans?

The Return of SNL

When Saturday Night Live returns in the fall, I always squeak out during the premiere’s opening credits, “My friends are back!” It’s a silly thing to say about an ever-rotating group of people I’ll never meet, but when you’ve been watching Kenan Thompson do his thing for close to two decades, you can only be delighted to see him after months of absence. While the “At Home” episodes this spring were a treat I didn’t think possible, it’s even better to have my friends back at it in their usual environment with the high production value of Studio 8H. These were the skits that made me laugh the most month:

“VP Fly Debate Cold Open,” mostly for the Jeff Goldblum tribute (4602 with Bill Burr)

“New Normal” (4602)

“Dr. Wenowdis on Weekend Update” (4602)

“Enough Is Enough,” a bit which explains my feelings about almost all celebrity political takes (4602)

“Canadian News Show” (4603 with Issa Rae)

“Election Ad” (4604 with Adele)

“The Bachelor” (4604)

For more on how this season has come together back in the studio, you can read the Vulture interview with Lorne Michaels about it.

Coach Carter (2005)

A based-on-a-true-story movie about an unconventional basketball coach (Samuel L. Jackson) who wants his players (including a baby Channing Tatum) to succeed on more than just the court. It’s a straight-down-the-middle story that shares DNA with many of the inspiring sports movies that came out in the wake of Remember the Titans, but it’ll scratch that itch if that’s what you’re looking for. Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 7.5/10

Double Feature — Early ’90s Halloween Classics: Edward Scissorhands (1990) + The Addams Family (1991)

Both of these movies start at Christmastime, but both are spooOOooky movies in their bones. Not all Halloween movies are Tim Burton movies, but all Tim Burton movies are Halloween movies, including Edward Scissorhands (Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 8.5/10). Tim Burton is hit-or-miss for me, but I was pleasantly surprised at how moving this idiosyncratic fairy tale was. Johnny Depp is at his most tortured as a Frankstein’s monster whose inventor (Vincent Price) gave him scissors for hands, Dianne Wiest finds the heart and comedy in your local Avon representative, and Winona Ryder is a queen. The Addams Family (Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 7/10) might be even more idiosyncratic. I’ve never watched the TV series, so it took me a minute to warm up to its twisted sense of humor (“Are they made from real Girl Scouts?”), but once I did, I started laughing as often as my nostalgic parents.

The Magic iPod

A nostalgia kick you didn’t know you wanted. I have no idea why or how this site exists, only that it brings me joy. Try mashing up “Ms. New Booty” with “A Thousand Miles,” “Get Low” with “Float On,” “Tipsy” with Bring Me to Life,” “99 Problems” with “All Star,” “Country Grammar” with “Complicated,” or any other combo that brings your favorite songs from your first iPod together.

Hubie Halloween (2020)

You know those dumb movies that just hit you in the right spot? Adam Sandler has a knack for those kind of movies, and Hubie Halloween fills the void of Halloween fun you’re probably missing this year. Sandler plays Hubie, a not-very-bright do-gooder with a very big heart whose self-proclaimed purpose is to keep everyone safe in his hometown of Salem. But there are spooOOooky threats on Halloween night this year, and only Hubie and his thermos (which rivals a Swiss army knife in all its functions) will be able to save it. Don’t miss it you’re like me and love a good celebrity cameo and a Hollywood-designed Halloween costumes. Crowd: 9/10 // Critic: 6/10

Double Feature — Are We Sure These ‘80s Movies Are for Kids? Gremlins (1984) + Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988)

After seeing Gremlins (Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 7/10), I know why parents were clamoring for the PG-13 rating—this movie may be short on the scares for adults, but I have no idea what I’d do for a tyke not expecting the cuddly Gizmo to spawn homicidal ghouls. In what may be the most ‘80s movie I’ve watched yet, we get a legit bonkers story, both in premise and execution—and it might also be a brilliant and scathing satire of consumerism? Perhaps another spoof of consumerism: Who Framed Roger Rabbit (Crowd: 8/10 // Critic: 8.5/10), which creates an impressively specific world that’s part animation, part live action. It’s a parody of classic film noir with no shortage of innuendo or just plain weirdness—its artistic achievement makes it worth watching, but since when have kids cared much about any of those things?

Double Feature — So-Bad-They’re-Good Action Flicks: Gone in Sixty Seconds (2000) + Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter (2012)

If Gremlins is one of the most ‘80s movies, then Gone in Sixty Seconds (Crowd: 8/10 // Critic: 5.5/10) is one of the most Nicolas Cage movies. He’s a good guy caught on the wrong side of the law in a ridiculous plot engine where he has to steal 50 cars in less than a week. His pent-up frustration lives just below the surface, and his performance is so committed, you’re not sure if he’s knows  the dialogue and plot twists are zany—in fact, you’re not even sure he’s acting at all. Also committed to whatever the heck it’s doing is a movie that’s exactly what it sounds like, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter (Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 6/10). An over-qualified cast (Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Anthony Mackie, Rufus Sewell, and more) just goes for it in a story with the premise that Abe Lincoln fought oppression caused by slavery and by immortal blood-suckers. I think my favorite part is when a vampire throws a pony at our 16th president—I couldn’t make this up if I tried.

October Critic Picks

Triple Feature — ‘60s Horror Classics: Village of the Damned (1960), The Haunting (1963), Night of the Living Dead (1968)

In Village of the Damned (Crowd: 8/10 // Critic: 8/10), everyone in a British village passes out at the same time for hours, and weird events continue for years, centering around a mysterious group of children. In The Haunting (above, Crowd: 8/10 // Critic: 9/10), a group is studying events at a haunted house, but it may be the house that’s in control. And in Night of the Living Dead (Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 9/10), the zombie genre dawns with a group huddled away from the undead in a farmhouse. All of these are thoughtful, well-made films, but I recommend them with asterisks* because I’ll never watch any of these groups again. The Haunting made me scared of bumps in the night as I was falling asleep, and Night of the Living Dead gave me zombie-filled nightmares. If you’re looking for a dose of heebie jeebies, these are the movies you’ll be needing!

2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

I’m not sure I understood any of it, but I think I liked it? If you don’t mind a film that feels more like poetry than a plot, this visual stunner is worth the long runtime and straight-up weird sequence of scenes. Fortunately, I was prepped for my viewing with the help of Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz and writer/director Brad Bird, who selected as part of this season’s Essentials lineup. While Bird loves the film, Mankiewicz admitted it’s not one of his favorites because it’s such an obtuse head-scratcher. Both acknowledged it’s an important one to cinema, so unless The Tree of Life is still making your brain hurt almost a decade later, it’s worth trying to parse through a story that covers the dawn of man, man’s fight against machine, and, um, a lot of other things I couldn’t explain if I tried. Crowd: 5/10 // Critic: 10/10

The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020)

If you’re a fan of Aaron Sorkin’s idealist monologues and ideological pitter-patter, then pause your latest binge of The West Wing to watch his latest writing/directing outing, now streaming on Netflix. Based on the true story of protesters who clashed with the police outside the Democratic National Convention in Chicago in 1968—which, yes, doesn’t seem to difficult to imagine these days—it captures the spirit of a wild trial about political activism, healthy debate, fairness in government, and even the importance of grammar. If you watch it and think there’s no way this really happened, be sure to read up on the real trial to see how the film toned down the judicial circus. While this Oscars season will be unusual, we can predict this film will be in the awards conversation. Crowd: 9/10 // Critic: 9/10

Also in October…

My fellow ZekeFilm writers and I collected our favorite Halloween movies and TV specials for your enjoyment. Not-a-spoiler-alert: My pick is not very scary. In fact, it’s a zom-rom-com I’ve only come to love more since reviewing it upon its release.

Though Kyla and I always talk about Gilmore Girls on our podcast, we don’t just talk about the murder mystery TV shows it references like Murder, She Wrote. This month we talked about an ‘80s prime time soap full of shoulder pads and catfights as well as a ‘70s movie starring Rocky and the Fonz. Then we decided there were so many confusing pop culture references in an episode we couldn’t pick just one, so we researched a mish mash of topics like Punk Planet magazine, workout guru Jack LaLanne, singer Blossom Dearie, Manson cult member Leslie Van Houten, and a whole lotta board games.

540 movies and counting! You can follow real-time updates in what I’m watching in quarantine on Letterboxd.

[jerseydeanne]

Prince Harry has thanked staff at Veterans UK for their 'amazing work' as he marked the 25th anniversary of its helpline service.

The 24-hour Blackpool-based helpline provides welfare support for ex-servicemen and women and their families in partnership with charities and support networks and receives hundreds of calls every day.

The Ministry of Defence service also administers pension and compensation schemes for those injured or bereaved through service in the Armed Forces.

Harry met members who have received help from Veterans UK, including widow Jemma Neilson, 29, of Preston, whose husband Darren, 31, was killed four months ago in a tank explosion during a training exercise at Castlemartin, west Wales.

She explained how she had received assistance over her pension entitlement and access to the Armed Forces compensation scheme.

Mrs Neilson and daughter Millie, eight, moved out of military accommodation following the loss of her husband, who had been her childhood sweetheart since the age of 14.

They are living with her parents but with the continuing help of Veterans UK she hopes to buy her own home.

She said: 'The service has been absolutely invaluable. I don't know where I would be without it.'

Mrs Neilson said Harry was 'so friendly' and had 'instantly' put her at ease with his listening skills.

Retired RAF squadron leader Stephen Flaherty, 66, who receives a war disablement pension, said the Prince was 'a delight'.

He said: 'He has a very detailed knowledge of an awful lot, without a shadow of a doubt. A very caring person.'

Mr Flaherty, from Lytham, stepped down from flying in 1986 because of medical issues and was eventually put in touch with Veterans UK.

He said: 'They tell you about allowances that I had never heard of. They are alway

'I am very privileged to be all to call on them.'

During a tour of the site in Norcross, Harry listened in to a call to helpline adviser Lyndsay Ethell, 32, as she dealt with a pensions query.

Ms Ethell said: 'It was a great honour meeting Prince Harry, a once in a lifetime opportunity that I feel extremely privileged to be part of.

'The whole helpline deserve this recognition for all the hard work we do.'

Jon Parkin, head of Veterans UK, said: 'I was delighted to welcome Prince Harry to Veterans UK. I am hugely inspired by his work with veterans, so I was very proud to be able to demonstrate the breadth of services we provide here.'

Children of Veterans UK staff later presented the Prince with a brass Passchendaele commemorative poppy made from shell fuses found on First World War battlefields.

Harry then unveiled a plaque to mark 25 years of operation from the Norcross site and told onlookers: 'Happy anniversary everyone. Thank you for all the amazing work that you have been doing and see you in another 25 years.'

Next stop was a visit to the Lancashire village St Michael's on Wyre, which was devastated by flooding at the end of 2015 when 1,700 businesses and homes were damaged.

He first visited the village in February last year and was officially reopening the village hall at a reception attended by those who played a crucial response to the flood and residents who were forced to move out of their homes following the storm.

Julie Bostock, who lives next to the village hall, wrote to Harry after she was diagnosed with a brain tumour while spending eight months in temporary accommodation waiting for her home to be repaired.

She said: 'I wrote to him about the work he does with mental health and said what a shame I hadn't been able to meet him last time.'

Harry met Mrs Bostock, who has fully recovered after surgery to remove the tumour, with her husband Ralph and son Jack Prince and was shown photos of the damage which was done to the house.

He also spoke to their neighbours Graham and Lynne Mortimore who were unable to return to their home for nine months after the flood.

The Prince spoke to 99-year-old Winnie Hodson, who first met him when he visited last year.

Her daughter Winnie, 77, said: 'He remembered her from last time. He was asking how we were and about the floods.'

The Prince was greeted outside the village hall by children from St Michael's on Wyre Primary School, which had to be completely refurbished, and presented with a stick of Blackpool rock by one member of the crowd.

Headteacher Diane Carroll, 46, said the children were taught in portable cabins at Myerscough College, and on a nearby farm, for almost six months while work was carried out.

She said: 'Harry was asking about the school and said he had been speaking to one of the students outside whose home had been flooded as well.'

Margaret Thompson, 78, told Harry some of the children were taught on her farm while the school was repaired.

She said: 'They were marvellous, we missed them so much when they had gone.'

She added: 'Harry was lovely. He wanted to know all about farming and about the children. He was interested in potatoes.'  

As part of a day of engagements in Lancashire, the Prince will also meet young people at Brockholes Nature Reserve, Preston, where he will learn about the MyPlace project which aims to empower young people by encouraging them to take action in environmental activity.

Harry will end the day by visiting the Sir Tom Finney Soccer Development Centre and the Lancashire Bombers Wheelchair Basketball Club at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) sports arena.

Yesterday, the Mail On Sunday revealed that royal aides have asked senior family members to provide a shortlist of weekends they're available in 2018 - the clearest sign yet that an engagement announcement is imminent.

Engagement rumours went into overdrive last week as it emerged that Meghan had enjoyed an intimate audience with the Queen at Buckingham Palace with Harry, over afternoon tea.  

However, it is unlikely there would be any official announcement until after the celebrations for the Queen's 70th wedding anniversary on November 20.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-5008273/Prince-Harry-begins-busy-day-visits-Lancashire.html#ixzz4wN3WG1En

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[slapshotreelmedia]

2017 Review: Film and TV

It’s that time of year when awards season is in full swing and we take a look back at the films and television shows which shaped the year, along with those in the film industry who moulded them into modern masterpieces. With the Golden Globes and Academy Awards fast approaching, here are some of the film and television highlights from 2017 and a summary of a fantastic year for both the small and silver screens.

TOP 10 FILMS OF 2017

1. DUNKIRK

Director: Christopher Nolan

Starring: Fionn Whitehead, Mark Rylance, Kenneth Branagh and Tom Hardy Taking top spot is the masterpiece that is Christopher Nolan’s ‘Dunkirk’. The master of paralell storylines is at his cinematic best with a stunningly shot and beautifully executed piece of cinema which combines the harrowing realism of one of history’s most important stories with the humanistic heroics of those who fought on the land, in the air and at sea. Bold, beautful and one of the great modern war movies of our time

Defining Moment: The spectacular aerial dogfights.

2. THE GREATEST SHOWMAN

Director: Michael Gracey

Starring: Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron, Zendaya, Michelle Williams, Keala Settle and Rebecca Ferguson

Roll up, roll up for a cinematic experience that is colourful, uplifting and a joyous celebration of all that is unique and special. Hugh Jackman’s trademark charisma and song and dance skills drive this spectacular movie musical with brilliant support from Zac Efron, Zendaya, Michelle Williams and a talented ensemble cast. Toe-tappingly special and a great show indeed!

Defining Moment: Jackman and Efron play master and apprentice in a slick bar room duet.

3. LOGAN

Director: James Mangold

Starring: Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, Dafne Keen and Boyd Holbrook Jackman dons the claws one final time for what is potentially the most brutal and brilliant ‘superhero�� film put to celluloid. Old Man Logan is channelled as Hugh rips and shreds his way through the bitterness of Logan’s ageing body and Wolverine persona. This character driven piece is a fitting send off for a brilliant franchise and a tribute to Jackman’s commitment to the role over 17 years!

Defining Moment: X23 is born.

4. PADDINGTON 2

Director: Paul King

Starring: Ben Whishaw, Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins, Julie Walters, Hugh Grant, Brendan Gleeson and Peter Capaldi

Sweet, charming and endearing only begin to describe the charm of this absolute gem about the adventures and misadventures of the little bear from darkest Peru. Everything a good family film should be with some of the cream of British acting and a spirit that will warm the hearts of young, old and even bears.

Defining Moment: Paddington’s daring train chase with the assistance of the Brown’s.

5. THOR: RAGNAROK

Director: Taika Waititi

Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Cate Blanchett, Idris Elba and Jeff Goldblum

We all knew this was going to be good but oh boy, what arrived was unexpected and slick! Director Taika Watiti breathed an amazing sense of colour, fun and scintilating humour to the franchise, with Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston at their heroic best as Thor and Loki. Wildly colourful and a dazzling spectacle!

Defining Moment: The final bridge battle.

6. GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOLUME 2

Director: James Gunn

Starring: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Bradley Cooper and Vin Diesel

Riding the giddy success of the first instalment, the second Guardians of the Galaxy is just as good, if not better than the original with the colourful characters (and the cute as ever Groot) combining with the intergalactic setting and rollicking soundtrack to create yet another smash hit!

Defining Moment: Groot’s boogie time opening sequence.

7. KINGSMAN: THE GOLDEN CIRCLE

Director: Matthew Vaughn

Starring: Taron Egerton, Mark Strong, Colin Firth, Channing Tatum and Julianne Moore

The surprise hit of 2014 gets a worthy sequel with even more ultra violence, chaos and quintesential British charm than the original. Introducing even more colourful, crazy and often sadistic characters to the insanity, The Golden Circle grabs you, shakes you around and doesn’t let go!

Defining Moment: Mountaintop cable cars come tumbling down.

8. BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

Director: Bill Condon

Starring: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Evans, Josh Gad, Ewan McGregor, Ian McKellan, Kevin Kline and Emma Thompson

With the animated original regarded as one of the best animated films of all time, this live action adaptation had a lot to live up to. With an all star cast, Bill Condon at the helm and brand new original songs to compliment the classics from the original, this was something truly special. It beautifully captured the magical essence of the story whilst bringing it to a new generation in a dazzling manner.

Defining Moment: The magical first dance. Just like the original if not better!

9. THE MAN WHO INVENTED CHRISTMAS

Director: Bharat Nalluri

Starring: Dan Stevens, Christopher Plummer, Johnathan Pryce, Miriam Margoyles and Morfydd Clark

Flying largely under the radar, this exquisite looking film cleverly combines the magical story of ‘A Christmas Carol’ with the tale of its creation as Dan Stevens’ Charles Dickens faces hardships and even the spirits of his own characters on the road to creating a masterpiece. Truly warms the heart and chock full of Christmas cheer.

Defining Moment: Dickens faces his childhood demons at the workhouse and a classic is born.

10. MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS

Director: Kenneth Branagh

Starring: Kenneth Branagh, Johnny Depp, Judi Dench, Michelle Pfeiffer, Daisy Ridley, Josh Gad, Penelope Cruz and Willem Dafoe

The latest Christie adaptation puts Kenneth Branagh at the helm and sees him donning the famous moustache of Hercule Poirot. Largely disregarded by critics, this is a handsome looking film with a talented cast and plenty of twists and turns, complimented by an atmospheric soundtrack. Top notch filmmaking.

Defining Moment: Poirot creates a line up and solves the final puzzle.

Honourable Mentions:

- Baby Driver (Director: Edgar Wright)

- Manchester By The Sea (Director: Kenneth Lonergan)

- Lion (Director: Garth Davis)

- War for the Planet of the Apes (Director: Matt Reeves)

- Going in Style (Director: Zach Braff)

- The Accountant (Director: Gavin O’Connor)

- Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales (Directors: Joachim Ronning and Espen Sandberg)

TOP 10 TELEVISION SHOWS OF 2017

1. GAME OF THRONES (HBO)

Creators: David Benioff and D.BWeiss

Starring: Lena Headey, Kit Harington, Peter Dinklage, Emilia Clarke, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Sophie Turner and Maisie Williams

The HBO juggernaut continued with it’s hotly anticipated seventh season and it didn’t disappoint. With the effects and characters developing and the plotlines becoming even more thrillling (if that was even possible), this was television at it’s very best and a testament to why the small screen is beginning to rival the big screen in terms of quality and content. The Army of the Dead are here, as is Winter and I for one can’t wait to see what Season 8 brings!

Defining Moment: Dragons meet the Wall! 2. STRANGER THINGS (Netflix)

Creators: Matt and Ross Duffer

Starring: Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Finn Wolfhard, Millie Bobby Brown, Gaten Materazzo, Caleb McLaughlin and Noah Schnapp

One of the most unique and gripping shows of the last couple of years returned for Season 2 and threw viewers right back into the retro eighties feel of Hawkins, Indiana. A return to the upside down was also on the cards as this gem blended eighties style with science fiction thrills in a seamless manner. The predominantly youthful cast were brilliant as always as were the excellent adult cast members. Thrilling, terrifying and one of the best of the year!

Defining Moment: Steve and Billy face off in a brutal showdown. 3. DOCTOR WHO (BBC)

Creator: Sydney Newman

Starring: Peter Capaldi, Pearl Mackie, Matt Lucas, Michelle Gomez and David Bradley

With sonic sunglasses and guitar in tow, Peter Capaldi’s twelth doctor returned to battle supernatural and extra terrestrial forces one more time in his farewell season. Bringing a frenetic ‘rockstar’ quality to the famous character, Capaldi’s take on the timelord will be missed but has paved the way for a bit of history with Jodie Whittaker set to take the reigns as the series’ first female doctor. Geronimo, Allons-y and bring it on!

Defining Moment: Doctor, I let you go. An emotional regeneration. 4. SHERLOCK (BBC)

Creators: Mark Gatiss and Steven Moffat

Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Amanda Abbington, Mark Gatiss and Una Stubbs

After what seemed like an eternal wait, the game was afoot once again as Sherlock and Watson returned for their fourth outing. The three episodes were some of the strongest of the series thus far with episode three ‘The Final Problem’ proving to be a psychological thrill ride that was impossible to turn away from. Here’s hoping for a return by the dynamic duo, but if this season did prove to be the end, what a way to go out!

Defining Moment: The incredible final psychological game! 5. A SERIES OF UNFORTUNATE EVENTS (Netflix)

Creator: Daniel Handler aka Lemony Snicket

Starring: Neil Patrick Harris, Patrick Warburton, Malina Weissman, Louis Hynes, K. Todd Freeman and Presley Smith

After 2004’s ill fated Jim Carrey driven film adaptation, Netflix and Neil Patrick Harris took the reigns for this dark take on Lemony’s Snicket’s dreary series. What they produce is creative, quirky and very clever with Patrick Harris encapsulating the slimy nature of the multi-persona Count Olaf perfectly. With a second and third season alread ordered, this is set to continue to be a fantastic adaptation that will delight young and old.

Defining Moment: Neil Patrick Harris’ colourful and outrageous transformations

6. THE CROWN (Sony/Netflix)

Creator: Peter Morgan

Starring: Claire Foy, Matt Smith and Victoria Hamilton

With the first season an award winning success, Claire Foy and Matt Smith reprise their roles of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip as the ‘semi-fictionlised’ history of the monarchy is explored throughout the 1950’s. The relationship between Elizabeth and Phillip are delved into as is the connection between the Monarchy and the people as key moments from 20th Century history act as narrative drivers in this perfectly pitched drama.

Defining Moment: Scandal rocks the royals 7. FULLER HOUSE (Netflix)

Creator: Jeff Franklin

Starring: Candace Cameron Bure, Jodie Sweetin, Andrea Barber, Juan Pablo di Pace, Scott Weinger, John Brotherton and Adam Hagenbuch

It is the era of nostalgia with plenty of reboots and re-imagining in the world of film and television. In the 1980’s, viewers fell in love with the Tanner family in ‘Full House’. Now, a third season of the series which re-visits the charm of that same full house has been released. With more hijinks from DJ’s two boys as well as an adventure into Kimmy’s childhood home, this season is fun, colourful and brings back all the charm of the original with more to boot.

Defining Moment: The final musical moment 8. THE GRAND TOUR (Amazon)

Starring: Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May

Bringing back the sheanigans and larrakin charm which brought about 22 hugely successful seasons of Top Gear, hosts Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May crash and bash their way across the globe, finding every possible brand of car, lorrie, helicopter and every other mode of transport inbetween. Highly entertaining, supremely funny and not just for car enthusiasts.

Defining Moment: Clarkson, Hammond and May attempt Operation Desert Stumble 9. BROOKLYN NINE NINE (NBC/Fox)

Creators: Daniel J. Goor and Michael Schur

Starring: Andy Samberg, Melissa Fumero, Terry Crewes, Stephanie Beatriz, Joe Lo Truglio, Chelsea Peretti and Andre Braugher

The Nine Nine is back! Jake Peralta and the loveable gang from the ninety ninth precinct are back to their old tricks. With Peralta and Captain Holt starting the season in witness protection and the fourth instalment in the ever entertaining Halloween heist, Brooklyn Nine Nine hits the funny bone with every joke and is getting better and better!

Defining Moment: Halloween heist IV 10. JACK WHITEHALL: TRAVELS WITH MY FATHER (Netflix)

Starring: Jack Whitehall and Michael Whitehall

Flying under the radar, this little known Netflix series is not to be missed. Awkward British comedian Jack Whitehall (of Bad Education and Fresh Meat fame) decides to take a delayed ‘Gap Year’ and spend several weeks in Asia. The catch, he decides to take his stuffy father Michael along for the ride. What results is a hilarious mis-match of holiday shenanigans with Jack leaping into new experiences and Michael taking the educated upper class approach to holidaying. Great Bristish comedy!

Defining Moment: Jack and Michael come face to face with Steven Seagal

Honourable Mentions:

- The Worst Witch (Creator: Jill Murphy)

- The Ranch (Creators: Jim Patterson and Don Reo)

- Riverdale (Creator: Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa) - Shooter (Creator: John Hlavin) - 13 Reasons Why (Creator: Brian Yorkey) - Wet Hot American Summer: 10 Years Later (Creators: Michael Showalter and David Wain) - All Round To Mrs Brown’s (Creator: Brendan O’Carroll) - A Christmas Story Live (Directors: Scott Ellis and Alex Rudzinski) - Will and Grace. (Creators: David Kohan and Max Mutchnick)

2017 FILM AND TELEVISION MVP’S

NETFLIX

The streaming juggernaut takes Television’s top crown for 2017. With digital content paving the way for the future of television, Netflix is certainly making the most of their popularity with over 50 million subscribers in the US and an estimated 7.6 million in Australia. With the subscription service now developing their own original content and the success of titles such as ‘Stranger Things’, ‘The Crown’, ‘Fuller House’ and ‘Riverdale’ there is no evidence of the service slowing down and 2018 is set to be even bigger!

HUGH JACKMAN

Australia’s favourite song and dance man and all round nice guy Hugh Jackman was a busy man in 2017, fronting two of the year’s biggest films in ‘Logan’ and ‘The Greatest Showman’. Both were major box office and critical successes. ‘Logan’ marked Jackman’s ninth outing as the clawed superhero and 17 years of playing the role whereas ‘The Greatest Showman’ saw him return to his musical roots, playing the inventor of the modern circus ‘PT Barnum’. The latter also allowed him to appear in the world’s first ever live movie commercial which aired during NBC’s broadcast of ‘A Christmas Story Live’.

EMMA WATSON

Starring in the year’s biggest box office success ‘Beauty and the Beast’ as well as alongside Tom Hanks in the more limited released ‘The Circle’, Emma Watson is certainly developing a wide and varied filmography. Not only is she gracing the silver screen with both her acting and singing abilities, she has proven a powerful figure in social and political arenas with her ‘He For She’ campaign assisting in the advancement and empowerment of women as well as acting as a UN Women Global Goodwill Ambassador. Not only a talented young actress but a remarkable young woman.

CHRISTOPHER NOLAN

The master of cerebral, non linear storytelling took on possibly his most ambitious task yet, telling a  story based on true events and one of history’s most important chapters. The experiences of WWII soldiers at Dunkirk ended up being the perfect fit for Christopher Nolan. His trademark hands-on approach allowed both the actors and audiences to get up close and personal with the experiences of soldiers and support personnel from the land, sea and air. Only Nolan could then add a storytelling element of three paralell experiences being told simultanously across three separate timelines. It was a filmmaking masterclass and one which should gain some much needed attention for the director come awards season.

KENNETH BRANAGH

One of Britain’s most esteemed film and theatre actor’s Kenneth Branagh was a name that appeared on billboards and fim screens many times throughout 2017. A powerful performance as Commander Bolton in Christopher Nolan’s ‘Dunkirk’ was followed up by a directorial and acting turn as the world’s most famous detective with the world’s coolest moustache Hercule Poirot in ‘Murder on the Orient Express’. Branagh’s directing and acting style are executed with style and without fuss and are always very entertaining to watch. He is set to reprise his role as Poirot in the next instalment ‘Death on the Nile’ which is currently in development.

DAN STEVENS

One of 2017’s breakout stars was Dan Stevens. Best known for his role as Matthew Crawley in Downton Abbey, Stevens appeared opposite Emma Watson as the Beast in ‘Beauty and the Beast’, donning a motion capture suit and releasing a stunning singing voice for the role. This was accompanied by a largely ‘under the radar’ role as Charles Dickens in the beutifully crafted ‘The Man Who Invented Christmas’. Stevens has also been busy on the small screen and will continue his work on the series ‘Legion’ into 2018. He is one to watch for sure.

TAIKA WAITITI

Hailing from New Zealand, director Taika Waititi captured attention with sleeper hits ‘What We Do In The Shadows’ (2014) and ‘Hunt for the Wilderpeople’ (2016). His quirky, dry humour style may not have seemed the right fit for a Marvel juggernaut, however he was inserted as director for 2017’s ‘Thor: Ragnarok’. What a stroke of genius it proved to be with one of Marvel’s best films to date. Waitit brought style, colour and his well timed, quirky humour to the film which was the best fun to hit the cinema this year.

DAISY RIDLEY

Appearing on billboards worldwide is now part of everyday life for Daisy Ridley who this year starred in both the highly anticipated ‘Star Wars: The Last Jedi’ and ‘Murder on the Orient Express’. She brought her acting strengths to both films and her character of Rey in Star Wars is now one of the modern franchise’s most popular. With appearances in ‘Ophelia’, ‘Peter Rabbit’ and ‘Star Wars Episode IX’ on the horizon, Ridley is hot property at the moment and is set to continue to wow audiences in 2018 and beyond

BENJ PASEK AND JUSTIN PAUL

Being thrust into the spotlight at last year’s Academy Awards for their lyric work on 2016 smash ‘La La Land’, musical dream team Benj Pasek and Justin Paul this year branched out on their own and produced some of the year’s best music. After the success of their Tony winning Broadway show ‘Dear Evan Hansen’, they returned to the world of film and television, penning original songs for the NBC Live Musical ‘A Christmas Story’ along with ‘The Greatest Showman’ for which they have been Golden Globe nominated. A young musical duo with plenty of talent and a bright future!

ONES TO WATCH IN 2018

Black Panther, The Shape of Water, Ready Player One, Avengers: Infinity War, Deadpool 2, Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, Ocean’s 8, Solo: A Star Wars Story, The Incredibles 2, Ant Man and the Wasp, Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again, X-Men: Dark Phoenix, The Nutcracker and the Four Realms, Holmes and Watson, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, Aquaman, Mary Poppins Returns and Bohemian Rhapsody