tv flashbacks

Summer is notoriously a crappy time for television. In the past year of two, the networks have attempted to minimize reruns by putting on crappy reality shows. If I had to choose, I wouldn't opt to be at home all summer without excellent television to distract me. At the same time, there have been some gems that I've discovered.

I've already mentioned my love of "Shaq's Big Challenge" but I've also gotten into "Top Chef" thanks to speakmemory's recommendation. The host and main judge leave a bit to be desired in the personality department, but I keep watching. I also checked out Victoria Beckham's one-hour special and I have to admit, she came off as fairly funny and charming. I can't become a fan until she rises above the 95 lb mark, but she was entertaining.

There are two shows though I want to bring to your attention. The first is "Scott Baio...45 and Single." Amazing. All I really knew about Baio is that he was on "Happy Days", he ruled the school on "Charles in Charge" and he has slept with most actresses in town. I've only seen the one aired episode, but he came off as normal, funny, seriously New York-y and Italian, and a manwhore. All things which I find entertaining. Check it out.

But mainly, I want to point you in the direction of "John From Cincinnati" on HBO. Truthfully, it's too late to start now as too much has happened. This is, without a doubt, the most bizarre show I've ever seen on television. Yes, more bizarre than "Twin Peaks". I don't know whether it's brilliant or terrible but it is interesting and it is different, and that's enough this summer. There is some seriously fantastic acting and there is also the worst acting I've ever seen on screen. Some of the guilty parties are non-actors that David Milch decided to cast...some are...well, Rebecca De Mornay. But the excellent actors make up for it. As well as the intricate story lines and characters. If you aren't convinced this show is great, please join me as I list the 80s and 90s greats who have resurfaced to make an appearance.

Dylan from "90210"
Al Bundy from "Married with Children"
Baby from "Dirty Dancing"
Zack Morris from "Saved by the Bell"
Stanford from "Sex in the City"

I hope that's enough to make you tune in. Especially if you like it when Jesus is channeled by an idiot savant played by a good looking Jake Gyllenhaal type.