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Buzz Gift Guide: Goodies For Gramps

BuzzSugar — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 06:30:06 -0800

Welcome back, folks, to the next installment of my Buzz Gift Guide series for all the entertainment lovers in your life. Yesterday I suggested some fun gifts for grandma (after tackling mom and dad), and that leaves us with grandpa!

The first thing I thought of for my grandpa was the soundtrack to AMC's hit show Mad Men. I know he'd enjoy the collection of tunes by artists like The Andrews Sisters, Bobby Vinton and Rosemary Clooney.

A lot of grandpas might also appreciate some help with ditching the old rabbit ears and updating to a digital converter. This model looked pretty sleek and shiny to me, and you can even help him apply for a coupon!

If your gramps is squared away technology-wise then he also might appreciate this Alfred Hitchcock DVD collection or the complete series of Get Smart.

Check out HolidaySugar for all of our holiday coverage and gift guides.

The Simpsons Parodies Mad Men, Charlie Brown Tonight

BuzzSugar — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 06:30:33 -0800

The Simpsons may not be must-see TV for me like it was a few years back, but I still try to make a point of watching the annual Halloween special, the Treehouse of Horror. Even though it usually airs after Halloween (thanks a lot, World Series), it keeps me in the spooky holiday mood with clever horror parodies.

I'm especially excited for this year's (19th!) episode because it includes a takeoff on one of my favorite Halloween traditions: It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. The producers even got the rights to use the film's classic score, which is basically burned into my brain from years of watching the TV special.

There's also a Transformers parody, and another of Mad Men called "How to Get Ahead in Dead-Vertising," which features Homer Simpson falling through the sky just like Don Draper in the opening credits. Will you be watching this year's Treehouse? You can watch a snippet of the Mad Men parody if you

Which Mad Men Lady Is Your Favorite?

BuzzSugar — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 07:30:32 -0700

The men of Mad Men can sometimes be like train wrecks — I have to watch them even when I find some of them repellent. And while Don Draper may be the center of the show, I actually think it's the ladies who keep me coming back for more week after week. The fashion is amazing for one thing, and Joan, Peggy, and Betty are some of the most fascinating and heartbreaking female characters on television right now.I know picking a favorite can be hard but give it a try anyway. Now that we're at the end of season two, which Mad Men lady do you like best?Photos courtesy of AMC

Which Mad Men Lady Is Your Favorite?

Joan

Betty

Peggy

Other (I'll tell you below)

Mad Men Rundown: Episode 13, "Meditations in an Emergency"

BuzzSugar — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 10:30:16 -0700

The storm clouds swirled on this week's exciting season finale of Mad Men. As the terror of the Cuban missile crisis thrums below the surface, everyone copes with the prospect of the end of the world in his or her own way. The entire episode has a nihilistic vibe to it, with characters weighing each moment against the idea that it could be their last.

But worrying isn't just for global affairs: the ad men of Sterling Cooper are also fretting about big changes a little closer to home. If you know what I mean and want to chat about it,

You, Too, Can Pick Up Women Just Like Don Draper

BuzzSugar — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 08:15:17 -0700

It's been a very Mad Men weekend around here. In addition to the second-season finale on Sunday night, about which I'll have a lot more to say in just a little while, Jon Hamm also stopped by Saturday Night Live for a guest-hosting gig that poked some fun at Mad Men and Hamm's character, Don Draper.

A bunch of Hamm's sketches were funny — I was pretty impressed with him overall — and it was great to see fellow Mad Men actors Elisabeth Moss and John Slattery pop up in one of the scenes. But hands-down, my favorite sketch of the night was "Don Draper's Guide to Picking Up Women," which would probably be a classic even if it weren't possibly Amy Poehler's last SNL appearance ever (congrats to her, by the way). To get some relationship advice from the slick womanizer himself, just

TV Tonight: Mad Men's Season Two Finale

BuzzSugar — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 07:30:45 -0700

Sigh — it's here. The end of Mad Men (for this season, anyway — it's coming back). I can't believe it! Sundays will feel a little different heading into the Winter without the drama of the gang at Sterling Cooper.

The final episode is titled "Meditations in an Emergency," and the only small hint AMC is giving us is: "Sterling Cooper is in play and the office scrambles without Don. Betty learns some disconcerting news." So that tells me that things are really going to get nuts in the office as this merger goes through, and apparently Don won't be back (right away? at all?) to save the day. I'm starting to wonder how legit this whole thing is given that Don wasn't able to place an official vote at the partner meeting last week.

Also! What about Don and Betty? I feel like we need one more mega-confrontation between the two before we break. And is Joan going to marry this guy? Dump him? I wonder why they would make her hit bottom last week if they weren't setting us up for something in the finale. And finally, Peggy's going to learn something, but who knows what it will be. Maybe Don's true identity? Maybe something about her baby? Perhaps Father Gill admits a crush (that's my secret Thornbirds-esque hope)?

Regardless of how it all turns out, 'tis a bittersweet combo of excitement and sadness that it's over for now. To check out a scene from tonight's episode, in which the gang speculates about Don's whereabouts all this time,

Mad Men Rundown: Episode 12, "The Mountain King"

BuzzSugar — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 11:35:28 -0700

A lot went down in this week's episode of Mad Men, which makes sense as next week will mark the conclusion of season two (boo!). However, despite some character story lines progressing along, this episode doesn't offer many clues as to how Betty and Don will resolve their marital issues.

We do learn a bunch of stuff about other characters, though, including the fact that Pete is violently opposed to adoption and poor Joan is caught up in a terrible relationship with a wretched man. And while Don's away in California indulging in a mother of an identity crisis, Peggy's slowly but surely proving herself to be the brightest star in the office. So much to talk about! Let's get started, just

What Do You Want From a Third Season of Mad Men?

BuzzSugar — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 07:30:23 -0700

Mad Men will be getting a third season on AMC — though creator Matthew Weiner is still in negotiations to determine whether he'll return — and that means we'll be watching another year in the life of Sterling Cooper. Back at the TCA press tour, Weiner suggested he has a five-year plan for the series that would end in 1968, so presumably a third season could mean another time jump (though even at the time Weiner said nothing was set in stone).

This season of Mad Men has focused more on the characters' home lives than on the office. I think it would make sense for a third season to shift the entire dynamic back to the workplace and focus in on office politics. Duck is in position to shake things up and I'd really like to see Peggy move far enough up the ladder to a point where she's landing business. There's also plenty to resolve from this season that may not be wrapped up by the Oct. 26 finale, including the fate of Betty and Don's marriage.

I'm wondering: What would you want to see in a third season of the show?

Photo courtesy of AMC

Buzz News Roundup, 10/17

BuzzSugar — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:30:37 -0700

Once is going to get a remake as a Broadway musical. — LA Times
Speaking of theater, Will Ferrell will make his Broadway debut in January in the new solo comedy You’re Welcome America. A Final Night With George W Bush. — Variety
Mad Men will be renewed for a third season — but creator Matthew Weiner isn't officially on board yet. — The Hollywood Reporter
Michael Lewis’s nonfiction bestseller Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game will be adapted to film, with filmmakers eying Brad Pitt for the lead role. — ComingSoon
The real Sarah Palin will appear on Saturday Night Live this weekend. — AP
The film adaptation of Cormac McCarthy's The Road may not be ready for release until 2009. — The Hollywood Reporter
Four Tops lead singer Levi Stubbs has passed away at the age of 72. — AP
Kim Cattrall is set to star in a movie titled Miss January. — Variety
Barry Manilow will release an album of '80s covers on Nov. 25. — Billboard

Source

How Well Do You Know the Era of Mad Men?

BuzzSugar — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 05:30:21 -0700

Are you ready for something insanely addicting but also highly informative? Then check out this Mad Men-themed Jeopardy game online. The game covers the early 1960s through categories like "Ad Slogans," "In the News," and "Popular Culture." I've played several times now and I'm amazed at the trivia I've absorbed through the show. TV is so good for making people smarter (of course, I have to say that!). It's also funny because when you get the answer wrong the crowd gasps really loudly, and when you get it right sometimes your little cartoon person will raise the roof in joy.

It's good practice for when an actual Mad Men category will be included on a special Jeopardy on Oct. 17. I, for one, will be watching with a pen that I will pretend is a buzzer. Sigh. I'm such a sucker for both of these shows.

Mad Men Rundown: Episode 11, "The Jet Set"

BuzzSugar — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 11:43:50 -0700

This week's Mad Men episode has got to be the most bizarre yet. I was looking forward to Don and Pete's trip to L.A. (especially for the fashion and sets!) but did not see Don's little sojourn into an eerie little "family" coming. The mood in L.A. is surreal and exotic, with the figures around Don often moving around him in slow motion, making his departure from the realities and responsibilities of his life all the more creepy.

Back in New York, Roger and Jane get extremely serious and move their relationship to the next level even as Roger stares down what I'm guessing will be a nasty divorce. Also, Peggy gets a mini-makeover, Bob Dylan is the hot concert ticket in town, and someone comes out of the closet in the Sterling-Cooper break room. Ready to chat about this fascinating episode? Just

Mad Men Rundown: Episode 10, "The Inheritance"

BuzzSugar — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 11:36:52 -0700

As is often the case with Mad Men, the title of the episode is perfect. This week's installment has little Sterling-Cooper stuff and tons of richly layered, sad, prickly family issues dealing with difficult moms, sick dads, unknown heirs and lonely little boys. We don't see too much of our main man, Don Draper, this week, and I longed for more Joan, Roger and Peggy, but this episode is just as sad, disturbing and well-written as any of them.

To talk about this week's new developments,

Mad Men Rundown: Episode Nine, "Six Month Leave"

BuzzSugar — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 12:30:39 -0700

Any Mad Men episode with a lot of Roger Sterling in it is going to be among my favorites and that's a big reason why this first new episode after the show's big Emmy wins did not disappoint. There's a moment at a gambling club when a young woman approaches Roger and Don and asks if they're winners. His response is classic Roger: "Uh, losers tonight but winners in general." Another reason why this episode was good? That would be Betty's bone-chilling spiral into crazy-town, made even creepier with the suicide of Marilyn Monroe lurking in the background. The symbolism of Monroe's untimely death is rich with meaning and I can't wait to chat more about that after the jump.

It isn't just the ladies who have had it up to here with their lot in life. Apparently, despite the fact that they've long been having their cake and eating it too, the men are also feeling trapped. Roger and Don, in a scene that makes them out to be even bigger jerks than I thought possible, talk each other into a midlife crisis together. All of this combined with the sad and pathetic ending of one man's career at Sterling Cooper made for a very dark episode indeed. Ready to chat about it? Just

Want to Catch Up on Mad Men or Breaking Bad? Here's How

BuzzSugar — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 15:30:52 -0700

If you were thinking of picking up either Mad Men or Breaking Bad after their big Emmy wins on Sunday, AMC is making it easy. Over the next week, they're rerunning a big chunk of Mad Men and all of Breaking Bad in two marathon sessions.

The first comes tonight starting at 4 p.m. EDT (check your local listings if you're elsewhere), when the network will air the first eight episodes of the second season of Mad Men all in a row. (Once you're done, come back for my recaps!)

Then next Wednesday, Oct. 1, the entire first season of Breaking Bad will air starting at 8 p.m. EDT. It's only seven episodes total, so it's not a huge time commitment. I didn't manage to catch every episode of that one myself, so I'll definitely be setting my DVR to capture the ones I missed this time around.

Meanwhile, if you just want a taste of Breaking Bad, you can also watch the pilot online right now.

Photos courtesy of AMC

These Mad Men Illustrations Are the Bee's Knees

BuzzSugar — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 06:30:12 -0700

Caught wind of this yet, Mad Men fans? You are in for a fantastic treat. New York-based illustrator Dyna Moe has created a series of images depicting Mad Men characters and scenes which you can download as wallpaper, or buy certain prints of here. According to the Flickr page, Moe started the whole thing when she designed a Christmas card for Rich Sommer (who plays Harry Crane) to send to his co-workers last season. From there a whole series of illustrations ensued. Moe notes that she bases the look on illustrators "who did advertising and commercial art" during the era in which the show is set.

My favorites include the ones above as well as "Insulting the Utzes" and "What'll It Be, Daddy?" (Sally Draper's Cocktail Cheat Sheet) which is, um, actually going to be really helpful when it hangs in my kitchen.

Is This Season of Mad Men Better Than the First?

BuzzSugar — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 16:30:15 -0700

There was no new Mad Men episode to recap this week but there was still plenty to talk about given the splash the AMC original series made at the Emmys! I was dubious at first about the show's second season, what with the leap forward in time and all the unanswered questions, but the further in we get the more exciting it all becomes.What do you think so far? Is this season of Mad Men topping the first?Photo courtesy of AMC

Is This Season of Mad Men Better Than the First?

Yes! It's darker and the you-know-what is really hitting the fan.

No! I'm still waiting for the magic of last year to return.

They are both equally awesome so far!

Other (I'll tell you below).

Live From the Emmy Press Room: Mad Men

BuzzSugar — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 22:06:16 -0700

The cast of Mad Men was completely delightful in the Emmy press room, where they were celebrating their Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series — the first basic cable series to win that award. Several cast members sipped champagne, and Jon Hamm and Elisabeth Moss snapped iPhone pictures of each other.

Series creator Matthew Weiner called the win gratifying for a show that "resonates with the human condition," and he said it was something of a victory for every writer who's ever toiled away on a TV script at a library or a Starbucks. But a lot of the questions were for Hamm, whose Don Draper has been the heart of the show from the start.

"It is a career-changing role," Hamm said. "It is the thing that you dream about. You dream about getting to play something this rich and layered and funny and sad and beautiful all at the same time. Until recently, it hardly ever happens on television."

Pretending to smoke a cigarette while swilling champagne, Hamm acknowledged that "it is fun to dress up and smoke and drink in fakeland." But no worries — he said he doesn't behave like Don behaves in daily life.

Hamm also heaped praise on Bryan Cranston, who took home the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for Breaking Bad, so to hear about that, just

Mad Men Rundown: Episode Eight, "A Night to Remember"

BuzzSugar — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 12:39:55 -0700

Last night's episode of Mad Men shall henceforth be known as "that time Betty totally melted down," despite its official title. I've been hoping for a while now that she would finally let some of the air out of the repressed tension by confronting Don about his lies and this week I was granted this wish. More on that after the jump.

Meanwhile, Joan gets a taste of making a contribution to the business beyond her secretarial duties — and she likes it! We also see more of her fiance, who certainly has some strong beliefs about male-female roles. Finally, Peggy and her priest friend continue to bond as he works to gain her trust and talk about the deep secrets he knows she harbors (thanks to her lovely sister).

Yes, this week it's all about the ladies and some of the men who do crappy things to them. Ready to chat about it all? Just

Mad Men Rundown: Episode Seven, "The Gold Violin"

BuzzSugar — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 12:30:38 -0700

Last night's Mad Men ended on a totally shocking and gross note that rendered me unable to finish a piece of pizza. Just last week I was wondering when any of these men were going to get called out on their cheating ways (especially Don), and finally it kind-of, sort-of happened! I've also been wondering when we'd get back to some of the peripheral characters, like Ken Cosgrove (remember, he's a published writer of fiction?) and art director Salvatore Romano (remember, he's tormented by his sexual orientation?), and was happy to see the show pick up with those folks where we left off.

And then there was the Joan/new girl smackdown (totally awesome) and more flashbacks to Don's strange and mysterious past, including a little about how he got his start. He's come a long way, that Draper, but that only means he has farther to fall. To get chatting about the episode,

Do You Ever Read or Write Fan Fiction?

BuzzSugar — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:30:55 -0700

I loved following the story last week of the Mad Men Twitter accounts, where people blogging as "Don Draper" and "Peggy Olson" were shut down by AMC (which later relented and allowed the feeds to stand). What I hadn't really thought about — until the New York Times pointed it out — is that the Twitter feeds are a new form of fan fiction. I'm more familiar with the older idea of fanfic (as the Times put it: "Not satisfied with the number of original “Star Trek” episodes? Why not write a sonnet about Captain Kirk’s feelings toward Tribbles and post it on your blog?"). It's a pretty interesting idea to take characters from your favorite shows, books, or movies and make your own stories with them, and some fan communities (Twilight fans, Buffy fans) are particularly prolific. I've read some fanfic in my day, but I can't say I've ever written any. What about you? Source

Do You Ever Read or Write Fan Fiction?

Yes! I both read and write fan fiction.

I read fan fiction, but I've never written any.

Nope, I've never read or written any fan fiction.

Other (tell me below)

Mad Men Rundown: Episode Six, "Maidenform"

BuzzSugar — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 14:15:24 -0700

Last night's episode of Mad Men was a lot of things: illuminating, kinky, awkward, frustrating, and heartbreaking. I guess same old, same old for this show — but something about last night was a bit more intense, a touch more raw than the previous episodes this season. Maybe we're just at a place in the story arc of all the characters where, as Bobbie put it, "the gloves come off."

A lot of the characters in the Mad Men universe had moments of self-reflection: Don at the end of the episode, after another intense encounter with Bobbie, gazing at himself in the mirror; Pete taking a good look at himself in his own mirror after a night with a model. Meanwhile, Peggy's professional journey still captivates me, as she continues to face challenges as an up-and-coming woman at the office.

The part of Peggy's story that gives me chills is watching how ambitious she is becoming while knowing that, to some extent, she's not quite right in the head — or, at the very least, has experienced some emotional trauma we haven't seen her cope with yet. And this episode also had me laughing at the funny, old-fashioned terms people used for bras (like "brassiere")! So much to talk about, so let's start chatting — just

Link Time! 8/26

BuzzSugar — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:30:19 -0700

Aww . . . this Shirley Manson video, posted in honor of her 42nd birthday, takes me back! — Popwatch
Speaking of Manson, here's a preview of Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, where she now stars. — The TV Addict
Check out an exclusive video from the DNC of Will.i.am talking about the possibility of a black president. — CitizenSugar
Apparently, AMC wasn't such a fan of the Mad Men characters Twittering. — Pop Candy
Cheetah Girls movie rates high . . . but why? — TV Squad
According to Labor Pains costar Kevin Covais, Lindsay Lohan is "a sweetheart" and "very personable." — MTV Movies Blog
The new video for Stereolab's "Neon Beanbag" is cool, trippy. — Stereogum
Yet more love for Gavin and Stacey. — TV with MeeVee

Mad Men Rundown: Episode Five, "The New Girl"

BuzzSugar — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 11:36:50 -0700

Whoa — big episode of Mad Men this week with all of my favorite characters getting a good amount of screen time. One of my favorite characters from last season makes a return and we learn a whole lot about what happened to Peggy a while ago, including how she managed to keep her job after going through her secret ordeal.

I don't know about you, but there were some heart-stopping, high drama moments for me in this week's episode. Pressure continues to build within the Draper marriage as Don's lies keep piling up, Pete is a tool to his wife as usual, and there's some exciting news for Joan!

To read the rest of my thoughts and chat about the episode,

Buzz In: What Books Capture the Lives of Women in 2008?

BuzzSugar — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 07:30:49 -0700

I saw a great Charlie Rose interview of Matthew Weiner (creator of Mad Men) and I learned some fascinating tidbits. My favorite is the fact that Weiner defers to two books as his guide to what women's lives in the 1960s must have been like: The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan and Sex and the Single Girl by Helen Gurley Brown.

I can easily see the influence of Friedan's book in Betty's identity crises as a housewife, and Joan practically embodies the financially independent, swinging city gal that Gurley Brown so emphatically describes in her book.

In 40 years or so, if someone wanted to make an authentic TV series about the lives of women in 2008, what books should they read? They could, of course, include descriptions of the fashions of the time like gladiator sandals, tent dresses and apparently pegged jeans (?!). Or not.

One thought I had was Eat, Pray, Love, since I can't seem to ride a bus these days without spotting a woman with it on her lap. I know plenty of women don't like it, but it certainly resonates with enough of us. Fiction, memoir, guides to life — what books do you think capture the lives of American women in 2008?

Mad Men photos courtesy of AMC, source

Mad Men Rundown: Episode Four, "Three Sundays"

BuzzSugar — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 12:31:59 -0700

After last week's episode of Mad Men, there has been lots of discussion about that scene in the restaurant between Don and Bobbie (you know, That Scene) and what it means for Don's character. My feeling was that this was the beginning of Don becoming dangerously unhinged, and after this week's episode I'm even more convinced. I would not be shocked if he became increasingly violent as this season progresses.

But Don's not the only one whose world is unraveling; it seems that many people in the Sterling Cooper universe are reaching their own breaking points. With the slow and deliberate pace of Mad Men, I find myself becoming more and more on edge with each episode, as though watching a storm slowly gather, and waiting for lightning to strike.

To talk about the chilling, funny and interesting new developments from this week's episode,

Mad Men Rundown: Episode Three, "The Benefactor"

BuzzSugar — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 14:35:00 -0700

Last week I mused that the soul of Pete Campbell was being set up as a battleground for the competing forces at Sterling Cooper, but I may have been a little premature, as Pete was nowhere to be seen in the latest episode of Mad Men. Boo. Even though Pete can be slimy and repulsive, that's a heck of a lot more interesting to watch than, say, Harry angling for a raise. Joan was also pretty much MIA last night, which only added to a sense of wanting this episode to be over so that we can get back to the good characters next week.

That said, last night was not without its fair share of slime, although the target of my revulsion came as a bit of surprise to me. Plus, we got a lot more Betty, which means we're inching closer to to knowing what happened between her and Don during the break between seasons — and also means we're probably closer to her ilicit affair with the horse guy (at least that's what I'm ~~hoping for~~ predicting). To see the rest of my thoughts on last night's episode,

Mad Men Rundown: Episode Two, "Flight 1"

BuzzSugar — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 12:31:06 -0700

On Sunday's Mad Men, a tragedy struck the office and set off a chain of events that further divided Sterling Cooper into two competing sides: the good (Don) and the bad (Duck). Or at least that's how I like to think of it, even though nothing is as simple as good vs. evil in the world of these ad men. For now, though, the show seemed to kick off what I bet becomes a struggle for the soul of Pete Campbell (of all people), and we're probably in for some interesting office politics over the next several weeks.

The thing that continues to nag at me, though, is: What's wrong with Don? He's seriously lost his mojo and is constantly looking bewildered and sad. Last week the show hammered on the fact that he's growing old and might be losing touch with those hip kids so important to advertising. This week was all about watching him lose power and influence at the office and at home, and it clearly doesn't suit him. It's quite the departure from the cocky and ambitious philandering dreamboat we met in season one.

This week's episode also belonged to Paul, Joan, and Peggy, as we got some deeper revelations about what their lives are like outside of the office and what makes these people tick. To read my thoughts and chat with me about yours,

Mad Men Rundown: Episode One, "For Those Who Think Young"

BuzzSugar — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:38:48 -0700

It's no secret that I'm quite addicted to AMC's Mad Men — I declared July "Mad Month," after all! It's fresh and smart, with great writing and fantastic characters (and the fashion is awesome, and Don Draper is one of the dreamiest men to hit the television in a long while . . . ), and because there isn't a lot going on this Summer in TV-land, the show's return on Sunday felt a little like Christmas in July.

So, since Mad Men keeps me riveted to my screen (both because of the entertainment value and multi-layered social commentary embedded in each episode), I'm going to be recapping each episode of season two. Together we can sort through the drama and thought-provoking topics the storylines touch each week.

I know a lot of people are still playing catch-up with season one, so I won't even hint at where we last saw these ad men and the women who ~~loathe~~ love them until after the jump. But if you're ready to chat about last night or just see my thoughts,

TV Tonight: Mad Men Returns

BuzzSugar — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 08:00:46 -0700

Although Mad Men seems like the most-talked about show on television right now, that wasn't always the case. In fact, even despite early critical acclaim, the show flew under most people's radars during its inaugural season last Summer on AMC. Slowly but surely, the time capsule straight out of the '60s gained a following — one that apparently included a lot of Emmy voters. Now, as we approach the super-hyped second season opener, there is no question that Mad Men has arrived. Starting tonight, the spotlight is aimed hot and bright at creator Matthew Weiner and his cast to see if the show can continue to deliver the goods in its sophomore year.

To see where Mad Men has been and where it might be going tonight,

AMC's Mad Men Marathon — This Sunday!

BuzzSugar — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 14:00:07 -0700

It's officially time to start counting down to the season two premiere of Mad Men July 27! If my preview clips and photos weren't enough, AMC is giving you one more (free!) chance to either catch up or get aquatinted with the show by airing a marathon of the first season all day Sunday starting at 12:00 p.m. EST (check local listings!).

If you've been paying attention at all this summer, the buzz for AMC's first original program's sophomore season has been huge. On top of all the press, the show just set Emmy records this week and all signs point to more intriguing and fascinating developments from the show. I truly think this is the kind of show that lives up to all the hype.

If you're busy watching The Dark Knight for the fifth time this Sunday, you can at least catch the pilot for free here. Otherwise, you're on your own and will have to spend some money on the series. I'll definitely have this on in the background while I go about my Sunday, how about you?

Photos courtesy of AMC

Mad Men Holds Court at TCA

BuzzSugar — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 12:32:37 -0700

The centerpiece of Wednesday's presentations at the TCA press tour was the panel discussion with the cast and creator of Mad Men. More than a few critics who were in the room called the session a total lovefest, and it's easy to understand why. Creator Matthew Weiner is legendarily tight-lipped with details about plot twists, but he and his actors did let a few tidbits slip in the session:

Season two, which starts later this month, will pick up in February 1962, 14 months after the season one finale.
As the show goes on, we can get used to those kinds of time jumps: Weiner has "a five-year plan" for covering the '60s, ending up in roughly 1968 by season five (though Weiner insists there's no plan set in stone for the series and its storylines).
In the season's second episode, Pete Campbell will suffer a major tragedy, and the script will be about how someone reacts to bad news versus how they should react.
The cast still only rarely gets recognized on the street, but one of the biggest tragedies for the female cast members is that they can't wear their own favorite vintage clothes anymore lest someone think they're in costume.
The interaction that seems to best sum up Weiner's attitude about spoilers:

Question: What would you say to the viewers who will tune into the premiere and will want to know immediately what happened with Peggy and the baby?
Answer: I'd say trust me, I will give you the information as you need it, in the most entertaining fashion.
Remember that New York Times story about Weiner and Mad Men from a few weeks back? Weiner apparently thought it captured him perfectly.

As for the goings-on at the rest of TCA, just

On What TV Shows Would You Want to Be an Extra?

BuzzSugar — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 16:31:54 -0700

I recently learned of a Mad Men contest in which fans are challenged to submit videos of themselves doing line readings from the show to possibly win a walk-on role. How fun would that be? You'd get to wear an amazing costume and be a part of a set that is essentially transported to the 1960s.

It got me thinking about other shows that might be interesting for a fan to be a part of. Of course, it would be exciting to be on set for a filming of Lost — not just for the beautiful locale, but also to learn some of the super secretive plot points in advance. I'd be intrigued to check out Pushing Daisies and find out how much of that show is special effects and how much is actually a set. There doesn't seem to be much extra work available on The Office, but it seems like that cast has a ton of fun at work, and I'd love to be a part of that, however temporarily.

What about you? If there were a contest to win an extra role on your favorite show, would you enter it? And which show — or shows — would get you to try?

Mad Men: A Few Glimpses of Season Two

BuzzSugar — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 06:30:49 -0700

Why don't we just rename July "Mad Month"? Yesterday Mad Men's first season came out on DVD. But that didn't get us all that much closer to the July 27 premiere of season two, and so today I have a few short clips (and a few new photos) of the new season to tide us over for a little longer.

In all honesty, the best way to watch these glimpses of season two is to click here, go into the "Sneak Peeks and Trailers" section, and just let the clips play one right after the other. Though each is just 30 seconds long, the whole batch of them perfectly captures the chilling, captivating atmosphere of the show. But if you only have a few seconds to spare, I've embedded a couple of my favorites after the jump.

Also there: a few pictures of season two. They're from the first episode, but that's all I know, so feel free to speculate. Meanwhile, if you don't think you can make it through the DVDs in time for the 27th, AMC has a 12-minute recap of season one.

OK, ready for a taste of what's to come? Just

What to Netflix: New DVD Tuesday

BuzzSugar — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 07:30:19 -0700

All of the new DVD releases hit stores (and Netflix) on Tuesdays. So each week in What to Netflix: New DVD Tuesday, I sort through the best of the batch and tell you what to add to your queue. In addition to the titles below you can also now find the third season of TNT's The Closer on DVD, along with the brutal but stunning Brazilian film City of Men.

Mad Men: Season 1
I'm excited for the release of Mad Men's first season because I've been running around town, preaching to anyone who will listen that they should hurry up and watch it before the second season starts Sunday July 27! The series initially flew under the radar, as it was AMC's first venture into original programming, but it much-deserved attention and credibility by winning multiple Golden Globes.

The series is set in 1960s Manhattan, in the heart and soul of the advertising industry. It follows the trials and tribulations of one Madison Avenue firm's employees who (true fact) named themselves "Mad Men." The attention to detail in this show is impeccable, right down to the coned-bras and smoking in the work place. The series is as wonderful to look at as it is dark, and it doesn't flinch from the politically incorrect behavior of the era, including uncomfortable scenes rife with sexual harassment, racism, and anti-semitism. It may leave your soul a bit shattered and battered at its portrayal of America during this time, but it's so well-executed you'll probably recover fast. Plus, Don Draper is among the dreamiest characters to come along in a while (despite the fact that his behavior is often repugnant).

Special features include cast and crew interviews, a photo gallery, Mad Men music, and commentaries on every episode.

Two more great choices up next so

BuzzSugar's Must Haves for July

BuzzSugar — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 06:30:52 -0700

Well, July may not be the biggest book release time of the year (go figure), and it's a little weak on the music, too — but there are still plenty of entertainment options capturing my attention this month. My must haves include Summer escapism in an air-conditioned movie theater, an interesting read, a trip to the '60s, and one musical beacon whose new album has me excited. To see my picks for July, hit "Start." Source and Source

Summer Reading: The NYT Delves Into Mad Men

BuzzSugar — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 14:00:07 -0700

If you've got some extra time today, I recommend taking a read through this New York Times Magazine story about Mad Men (it's also out in today's edition of the print magazine, if reading thousands of words online isn't your cup o' chai). It's a fascinating look at the show and its creator, Matthew Weiner. Among the best tidbits:

Weiner wrote the pilot of Mad Men while working on the show Becker; it got him a job on The Sopranos but his series pitch was rejected by both HBO and Showtime.
At least one prominent ad man of the '60s is annoyed by the show, which he think plays down the work he did in favor of "three-martini lunches" and ogling women.
If someone's tie is tied wrong on the show, that's probably because the actor tied it himself. Weiner thinks a slightly imperfect look enhances the show's authenticity.
The show has only made two blunders that Weiner regrets . . . but you should go read the story to find out what they are!

If you're just getting into Mad Men, beware of some spoilers in the story —but if you love the show, it really is a great read. Enjoy, and then come back here to discuss!

Source

Season 2 of Mad Men Gets a Premiere Date

BuzzSugar — Thu, 29 May 2008 12:48:15 -0700

Hooray: The second season of the dark, gripping and insanely clever AMC series Mad Men now has a premiere date of Sunday July 27 at 10:00 p.m. (9:00 Central). And commence countdown. . . now.

I am completely smitten with this show which sheds a bright and unforgiving light on the advertising industry in New York (on Madison Avenue) in the 1960s. It's often difficult — though mesmerizing — to watch as it never glosses over the fact that while some might call it a "more innocent" time, certain things were seriously messed up back then (rampant and intense racism and sexism in the office, pregnant ladies drinking and smoking constantly, etc.). The people working on this show do a phenomenal job of capturing this bygone era using language, set pieces and especially the fashion of the times.

If you haven't seen the show and want to catch up before it comes back to TV, the series will be on DVD July 1.

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Link Time! 4/10

BuzzSugar — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 13:31:21 -0700

TV Squad is all ga-ga over the packaging of the Mad Men DVD set — and for good reason!
So, according to Vulture, maybe David Archuleta didn't have such a tough time deciding to sing "Angels," after all.
Someone on Pushing Daisies is gay, and if you want to know who, head to AfterElton.

After watching another schlubby guy-hot girl movie (Forgetting Sarah Marshall), Cinematical asks, where are the movies where unattractive women score hot guys?
Hey, it's Give Me My Remote's first Office Thursday in months!
Cute alert! The Paste Magazine blog alerts me to the fact that Shel Silverstein's books and albums are being reissued.
Sure, Lifetime's gaining Project Runway — but, as Popwatch points out, that might not offset its loss of The Golden Girls reruns to the Hallmark Channel.
This week's Hump Day Hottie on FilmExperience was Dennis Quaid, which I find totally awesome.

Source

PaleyFest: Mad Men and X-Files Close Out the Week

BuzzSugar — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 16:30:01 -0700

The Paley Festival has officially wrapped up its two-week stand in Los Angeles, closing out its run with panels featuring the creators of The X-Files and the cast and creative team behind Mad Men. While I'm sorry I couldn't be there for myself, at least there are video highlights to share!

David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson didn't attend Wednesday night's X-Files panel, but that doesn't mean there wasn't scoop to be had about the upcoming movie. A new trailer premiered during the panel, but it's since been pulled down from YouTube (come on, Fox, please?). E! has interviews with producers Chris Carter and Frank Spotnitz. The Futon Critic has a liveblog of the event, and The Hollywood Reporter has its own account. A couple of tidbits:

The movie doesn't have a title yet — or rather, Carter knows what he wants to call it, but whether that becomes the official title is still in Fox's hands.
The producers just kind of figured out the show's mythology as they went along. The movie, meanwhile, will be more "monster of the week," less aliens.
The issue of whether Scully's baby is normal "will not go unconsidered" in the movie.

For a video clip and some of the highlights from Mad Men, just

TV Tonight: Breaking Bad and Mad Men

BuzzSugar — Sun, 20 Jan 2008 12:30:49 -0800

Forget your image of AMC as the stodgy channel of old black-and-white movies. Now, the cable network is bad and mad.

I'm talking, of course, about Breaking Bad and Mad Men, which take over the channel's Sunday night lineup starting tonight. Breaking Bad is the quirky new series starring Malcolm in the Middle's Bryan Cranston as a high school chemistry teacher who completely flips his life's boring script when he's diagnosed with a terminal illness. It follows the success of AMC's first original series, Mad Men, which I named one of my best shows of 2007.

The intriguing clips for Breaking Bad have already prompted me to set my TiVo for tonight; the first episode airs at 10 p.m. EST and PST and will repeat again immediately after. Then, at midnight, AMC begins showing the first season of Mad Men from the beginning — great timing considering the show's Golden Globe wins.

Do you think you'll be checking out either show? To watch the Breaking Bad and Mad Men trailers, just

Atonement Leads Golden Globe Nominations

BuzzSugar — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 06:49:17 -0800

Atonement came up big this morning when the nominations for the Golden Globe Awards were announced in Hollywood. The film snagged seven nominations — three for the acting of stars James McAvoy,
Keira Knightley, and Saoirse Ronan and four more for Best Dramatic Picture, Best Director, Best Screenplay, and Best Score.

Also getting a lot of attention from the Hollywood Foreign Press Association: Charlie Wilson's War, which snagged five nominations, including Best Musical or Comedy and acting nominations for Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Sweeney Todd, Michael Clayton, and No Country for Old Men were close behind with four nominations each.

In the television categories, cable series got a lot of love, including new shows Californication, Damages, and Mad Men.

I'll be back with my complete thoughts later today, but for now, you can check out all the nominees if you

Mad Men Ends Its First Season Tonight

BuzzSugar — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 07:30:00 -0700

It's hard for me to think of a show that was more universally praised this year than AMC's Mad Men. An unlikely hit from a network that had never done a weekly original series before, the show about an advertising agency in New York in 1960 had critics declaring it one of the best shows on TV almost as soon as it premiered in July.

The show has been renewed for a second season, with 13 more episodes scheduled to air starting next June. But before that happens, there's some unfinished business to take care of in tonight's first-season finale. Betty is going to uncover some unpleasant secrets about her husband, while Peggy gets an exciting new opportunity that leaves her colleagues none too thrilled. The entire episode will air commercial-free with sponsorship from DirecTV, and after the episode, we'll also get to see footage from the show's wrap party. Are any of you still hooked? To watch a preview of tonight's episode, just

TV Today: The "Mad Men" Marathon

BuzzSugar — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 08:00:00 -0700

One of this summer's TV pleasures has been "Mad Men," AMC's drama about advertising and American life in 1960 New York. The show is gritty and compelling, but unfortunately, I've fallen behind on episodes. Luckily, AMC is giving us a chance to catch up: The network is showing all seven episodes that have aired so far in a marathon today, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Here's the schedule of which episodes are airing when. In the meantime, to watch a clip previewing the most recent episode, just

TV Tonight: "Mad Men"

BuzzSugar — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 15:57:19 -0700

A couple of weeks ago, I told you how excited I was about the premiere of "Mad Men," AMC's new drama about the advertising industry set in 1960 New York. I'm still an episode behind (my DVR got a little overloaded when I was in LA for the TCA press tour), but everything I've seen and heard about this show suggests that the second episode was just as strong as the first. Tonight's third episode has Pete returning from his honeymoon conflicted about his bachelor party encounter with Peggy, while Don's business relationship with Rachel seems to be moving into unexpected territory. If you've been watching, what do you think of the show so far? To watch a few clips from tonight's episode,

TV Tonight: "Mad Men"

BuzzSugar — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 08:30:00 -0700

Watching the trailer for "Mad Men," AMC's original series about the ruthless business of advertising in the 1960s, reminds me of Good Night and Good Luck, set a few years later and shot in color. The cigarettes everywhere, the martini lunches and the slicked-back hair all recall an era far removed from today's digital world. But, much like Good Night and Good Luck, "Mad Men" isn't just a period piece. It's dealing with themes that still resonate today: how America gets sold — and who's doing the selling.

AMC isn't exactly known for its original series — its primary business is movies, from classics like The Godfather to more modern fare like Catwoman — but "Mad Men" could put it on the map. For a cable show on a network nobody associates with TV, it's gotten a tremendous amount of critical buzz, with some calling it the best new drama of the summer and even the best new series of the year. The show premieres tonight at 10 p.m. Eastern. To watch the preview, along with a short clip about the show's authenticity,