Here's what I'm watching: March 2, 2023
this newsletter is called Shea Watches TV so here's the first of many casual updates on what I'm consuming
This will not be some long, complicated analysis of a show like I’ve done for The Last of Us or The White Lotus. I am just going to share what I’ve been watching while working from home mostly because I work from home so I act like the TV is where my co-workers live. BEWARE: tons of pictures ahead.
Here’s what I’ve watched so far in 2023:
Fargo, S1 and S2
I never thought to watch this when the show first came out in 2014 and WOW. Noah Hawley is a black comedy storytelling genius. Eventually, I will do an entire post dedicated to Zahn McClarnon’s character in Season 2. Not only is Hanzee the most badass character but McClarnon’s portrayal was snubbed from the Emmy’s that year. It also is a great example of how complex storylines with Native people are not as difficult as even modern western films make it seem.
Feud, S1
Let’s all be real: we are all sick of Ryan Murphy’s television empire. But I saw this on Hulu and decided to give it a try and I’m grateful I did. The storytelling is a little weak but Jessica Lange and Susan Sarandon along with the costume design make up for the flaws. ALSO! Did you know that both Bette Davis and Joan Crawford were Aries??? That explains so much.
Perfect Match, S1
Not a good dating reality show. I do not recommend unless you are looking to waste time listening to bland and arrogant people try to date each other. Thankfully, I am one of those people that love checking out these new takes on the same formula. Unfortunately, this one doesn’t quite deliver but it is a nice appetizer as we wait for the summer classic in Love Island.
Shows I’m currently watching:
The Last of Us, S1
I already wrote a bit about this show but GEEZ! With every episode I have new thoughts and am thinking of writing another entire newsletter on Episode 7. It had me on an emotional roller coaster and adds so much nuance to Ellie’s sense of self.
Poker Face, S1
I feel like I’m the only one not loving this show. It is fun, quirky, and has great costumes. Also, Natasha Lyonne is so rough in a way I like to watch but I just always feel like a loner over in the corner when I say that Rian Johnson is overrated.
Abbott Elementary, S2
IF YOU AREN’T WATCHING THIS ON WEDNESDAY NIGHTS WHEN NEW EPISODES AIR WHAT ARE YOU EVEN DOING!?!?! But really, Abbott is proving that networks need to bring full season sitcom orders back. I have really enjoyed having holiday episodes again.
Everybody Hates Chris, all the seasons
Tyler James Williams is so great in Abbott Elementary that I wanted more so I went back to this one. Currently on Season 3, Everybody Hates Chris is super unique and necessary part of the sitcom canon.
Hello Tomorrow!, S1
I’m really only watching this because I worked on the show and honestly, the best thing about the show is the production design so I am HONORED that I officially have that IMDB credit of ‘Art Assistant’.
Next on the list to watch:
The Mandalorian, S3
As if The Last of Us isn’t giving me enough Pedro Pascal…
Daisy Jones & The Six
I signed an NDA so I can’t say too much but I will be inhaling this show the moment it comes out on Amazon Prime.
Girls
DON’T JUDGE ME! As someone currently writing a sitcom pilot that is set in 2016, I’ve been considering revisiting this show that I never finished since it was such a big deal in the time period I have creatively been focusing on. That being said, I am open to over music, movies, and television shows from that time period that you were OBSESSED with.
Here’s to some happy TV viewing!