Second Screening.

Second Screening is a rolling idea, it's like a double take for the moviegoer, the television addict. Its something that I've wanted to do for a while but never had anywhere for it. Basically, its you and I going over things, and spreading what we love to each other.

That came out a bit wrong, but nevertheless, I'm sticking with it.

Second Screening is the chance for us at Movieville to share what we love to watch, and what we think you the readers might like. However, the most important part of this is you. Yeah, you. We want you the readers to tell us what your shows are, what your films are, the ones you love to watch, but when you go share this with someone the response is a muted 'I don't know what that is'. This is your chance to teach us and others, what truly are the things we should have watched.

To get the ball rolling, here's my show that you really should check out:

Fringe (2008-)

Fringe is, in short, a beautiful modern American X-Files. Now, I'm not saying its a replacement or a rival for favouritism, but it is good at what it is:

The story follows female FBI Agent Dunham as she works her way into a secret division of the government, which solves mysteries lying somewhere between the unexplainable and the unimaginable. She works with the brilliant Father-Son duo of Walter and Peter Bishop under the orders of Agent Broyles, solving these mysteries with an arsenal of tricks which are always visually and narratively spectacular.

The show is very American and formulaic, with a great story arc linking 24 'monster of the week' episodes throughout each season. It's big, explosive, and has an extensive fan base built on a unisex audience. It's got a sense of humour, a good grasp on mystery and at times gives a gentle nod to horror. Each episode works to build the characters naturally in their element and environment, and unlike most shows, I personally found myself growing fond of the character's quirks and repetition, a familiarity was created without overstaying its welcome.

The show was in part created by J.J. Abrams, who if you don't know also worked on a little show called Lost. Now, if you're put off by that, know that the style of the content has not carried over, but a good chunk of the budget has, and it shows.

 

So readers, next time your browsing online, or in a store somewhere, and you see this little beauty bellow 'Friends' in the 'F' section, give it a go. It's fun, light enough to grasp you, heavy enough to keep you, well written and well paced television.

Martyn's score: 8/10

 

IMDB: Fringe.

martyn

Hello. I'm Martyn, a film student studying production at Cheltenham. I love films and want to make them for a living, but if not I guess I'll just die cold and alone. I love David Lynch's films (E