We’ve just digested the results of the Nevada caucus, with Bernie Sanders emerging as the front runner – while, at the same time, news has leaked that intelligence agencies notified some congressional leaders last month, including Sanders, that the Russians were actively plotting to influence our coming election, reportedly spewing information and disinformation to sow discord by supporting both Sanders and President Trump. How will The Circus cover this circus? T

2020

Feb

ZOEY'S EXTRAORDINARY PLAYLIST By David Bianculli

If you’re following and enjoying this metaphysical musical series, here’s something to look forward to: In tonight’s episode, one of the people revealing their inner feelings in music and dance is Lauren Graham’s Joan, who bursts into song in the women’s rest room at work. Well, the echo is good in there…

2020

Feb

THE WALKING DEAD By David Bianculli

MIDSEASON PREMIERE: It’s not unusual for this series to engage in guerrilla battles against the undead, or even some living enemy – but for this half of this season, it’s outright war. For a full review, see David Hinckley's All Along the Watchtower.

2020

Feb

THE OUTSIDER By David Bianculli

Last week, Holly (Cynthia Erivo) almost died, and then dreamed she had. This week, the shape-shifting evil she’s been pursuing may have set its sights on a new quarry – in a very creepy carnival setting. But of course. This is, after all, a solid adaptation of a Stephen King novel, so danger is everywhere, and carnivals often are nearby.

2020

Feb

HOMELAND By David Bianculli

This is the third of four episodes Showtime previewed for critics this season, so I can say, with authority, that it’s an episode (and, so far, a season) not to be missed. Claire Danes, as Carrie, seems to be on her way to redemption and clarity – but let’s just say there are obstacles.

2020

Feb

BETTER CALL SAUL By David Bianculli

SEASON PREMIERE: It’s finally here. Not only Season 5 of Better Call Saul, after more than a year away from TV, but the moment when Bob Odenkirk’s Jimmy McGill, in this companion series to Breaking Bad, finally adopts the persona of Saul Goodman. Does that mean his story is over? No. This series is scheduled to end after Season 6, so we have a while yet to spend with these characters – which, to me, is an absolute joy. To hear my review on NPR’s F

2020

Feb

CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM By David Bianculli

Tonight’s episode is called “Surprise Party,” and it’s no surprise that Larry David, at least “TV Larry,” isn’t fond of surprises… even when it’s not his party. But I’ll reveal one surprise about tonight’s episode: among the guest stars is Fred Armisen, who plays an old guy with a walker – and a guy with whom Larry has an uncomfortable hallway encounter on the way to the bathroom.