May 3, 2016

You're the Best

You're the Best
In this golden age of TV, it is difficult not to lose track of our television shows. We simply cannot decide when to stop embarking on a new journey with our shows! And that's not entirely because of the human's capability to easily feel boredom. The internet (yes, I do not have the link, go research on your free time) says scripted television shows grew rapidly over the years. Broadcast networks, and other cable and online services continue to give its audience so many choices, while making them even more accessible. Too much TV? Nope.

Anyway, I'm not here to talk about how television shows will probably take over human socialization in the near future. I'm only here (after a long hiatus) to talk about this show:

You're the Worst (2014-)
Created by Stephen Falk

You're the Worst is about the relationship of unconventional couple Jimmy (Chris Greere) and Gretchen (Aya Cash). Jimmy thinks all relationships are doomed to end from the beginning; while Gretchen feels like she is simply not the kind of person to commit. But somehow, these two end up together after meeting at a wedding.



We are all tired of the same all bullshit we are fed whenever we watch romantic comedies. So I guess, You're the Worst's take to give its viewers the romantic kind of love story in a nontraditional sense works perfectly. It's straightforward and funny. Sometimes, gross. But honest in a way it doesn't kill the idea of romanticism (or as we Filipinos like to put it: the kakiligan).

I loved its pilot episode. I got worried though how the rest of the episodes will play out because the open ending felt like a dead end. Fortunately, this show actually continued to deliver quality entertainment for two seasons now. And that's all while tackling clinical depression (season 2).

As per the leads, Greere and Cash are naturals. Greere reminds me of the humor of a young Hugh Grant (not only because they are both British, c'mon). While Cash complements Greere in the most wonderful ways possible on screen. She gives life to Gretchen even on her darkest days. Supporting casts are just as lovable.

I like how the characters are presented exaggeratedly flawed. But their very own flaws are what made them humans, and what made them even more relatable. To put it simply, the writers behind this series are just goddamn good. They encapsulate modern perception of romantic comedies without emphasizing too much on the cliché. Only criticism is that, the first season felt like it somehow fueled the manic pixie dream girl premise. Not to worry though, because season 2 easily crushed that thought. The second season did not only focus on an issue rarely discussed on mainstream TV; it further showed flexibility in the personas of the characters—and they all made it work.

So yes, I definitely recommend You're the Worst to people who seek light drama and laughter. The wonders of this dark comedy show never fail to amaze me every time. Hopefully, it will continue to deliver in its third season. Do add it on your list of shows. You will not regret it.

(photo is not mine; credits to owner)

May 1, 2016

Les Mis in Manila

Les Mis in Manila
Based on Victor Hugo's 19th century classic historical novel of the same name, Les Misérables is the world' longest running musicale. And this story definitely needs no introduction. Touching lives, generation after generation, Les Mis will forever be a timeless piece. Be it the book, the film, or the musical, it never disappoints.

I could not believe that I actually saw it with my own two eyes. The experience was beyond my wildest dreams. Seeing the actors give life to the characters, and sing the songs like, “I Dreamed a Dream” and “On My Own” gave me a feeling of euphoria. They were so good, it felt surreal (Rachelle Ann Go was marvelous; Filipino pride).



The production design was seriously breath-taking. The props, efficient, were also a spectacle itself. And Hugo's sketches that were transformed into video screen backdrops were haunting. I could not stress this enough, but everything about the performance was brilliant.

Not even my sincerest gratitude is enough to show my appreciation for Claude-Michel Schönberg, and Alain Boublil for crafting such masterpiece; and Cameron Mackintosh for making it possible for people like me to see it.



It was such a magical night; it gave me chills. And yes, I shed a tear. It was overwhelmingly beautiful.

(c)