Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Thinking About Trying Mad Men
Vicki and Tammy have both been watching Mad Men (the title of which I understand to be a play on "ad men" as that's what the show is apparently about) for years now, but I've not yet seen even a single minute of it. Not too long ago, however, Jeff "Doc" Jensen transitioned from writing about Lost to providing his thoughts about MM. That event, alone, was enough to pique my curiousity. Now I'm considering buying the first season on DVD to give it a try. So to anyone out there who's seen the show, I ask: how highly do you recommend it?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
8 comments:
Can't recommend it enough, which means you might want to stay clear of it.
The Mad part also refers to Madison Avenue and the show is very very slow, but worth it.
You should get on the Rubicon bandwagon too. It puts Fringe to shame.
If you start watching, does that mean you'll blog about it? Not sure how I feel about that..
Just like Lost, it's really only worth getting into if you start from the beginning. Probably my favourite show out there right now.
Sorry, no smoke monsters...
I'd say it's my favorite show on right now as well.
Here's what I think you would like:
1) The writing is tight - sharp dialogue, plot lines are never forgotten about (characters often pop in and out, story threads are picked up many eps down the road)
2) It seems more rooted in reality than most other shows - you get a sense that these things could actually have happened, characters react logically, etc.
3) Acting is exceptional
4) Character development is the primary focus on the show, and subtlety is the writing team's strong suit.
5) I know you're not that into the 60's in general, but I do think it's interesting how they intertwine 60's events with plotlines, including having them line up metaphorically (there is certainly a lot for Doc J to analyze)
What I think you wouldn't like:
1) The main character - he is supremely flawed, makes horrible decisions, and is not always (or often) someone you can root for or identify with
2) In general there is a lack of characters that you want to root for. Most make frequent bad decisions and have their own demons. You have to actively work to see the redeeming qualities (which are there, and it helps when they give you backstory as to why the characters are so messed up - most of it has to do with the societal problems of the 60's in general)
Overall:
I think your disgust for most of the main characters will probably sway the balance to the "matt no like!" side
Really appreciating all of the comments so far, guys. Especially Tammy's very thoughtful analysis of what I'll like and dislike. The first season (on DVD) has been ordered and should be here in a few days, lining up nicely with us finishing our 2nd viewing of Lost's final season. By then we'll be ready for something else to watch.
I think Tammy has it right, good show but no heroes, no Jack and Juliet playing house!
I'm looking forward to re-watching season one!
Tammy neglected to mention that the entire first 3 seasons are really 'Peggy's Dream' and her recollection of the start of the Feminist movement.
The forth season has been kinda weird with the Mayor of Sunnydale being a demon and all.
I don't know about you guys, but I'm addicted to certain TV shows right now:
Breaking Bad
Mad Men
Hung
Treme and to a bit lesser extent, Rubicon.
It's like a golden age of American TV. The level of tension that Breaking Bad delivers each and every week is phenomenal. Add to this Giancarlo Esposito as Gus, the Crystal Meth king of the American South West and the show deserves all the Emmy's and accolades.
You could lend me Season 1 when you are done - I have heard good things.
Funny you have yet to get hooked on Glee or So You Think You Can Dance. (Insert hysterical laughter just picturing you watching these.)
Post a Comment