THE BIG C: A Review

Thank Goddiness

A directory of photorgraphy is a person who works on films, and who, although doesn't operate the camera, frames each shot, maticulously sets up each frame, because film is expensive, and such a person is prudent to make sure that the film is not wasted.  Also, this is a major artist of the film, he designs the "look" of the film.  He is what makes a scene beautiful, a shot gorgeous.  He is important.  (or she)

In the eighties and early nineties, all television shows were shot on film.  This was expensive and abandoned for video at the earliest convenience.  You may remember that "Cheers was filmed before a live studio audience."  Well, television isn't "filmed" anymore, in fact, movies (films) aren't filmed anymore, they are computerized, digitized, etc.

The Big C has a Director of Photography.  This means that each frame, each shot, is planned out and on this show done so well.  It means that we are watching a mini-movie, no, a mini-film each episode.  This speaks to expection care to the craft in the planning of this show.

Let's not forget the choice of Ms. Laura Linney as lead actress.  Laurua Linney is an actress who is worthwhile.  However, she is so adept, she could star in Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure 3 and still garner an award nomination.  She is a competitor to Ms. Meryl Streep. 

Point is, Ms. Linney could have been in an Office hack sitcom and done well, but she has chosen to go to Showtime for this show, a stylish show in which she gets to flex her acting muscles.

Finally, and my favorite category, the writing.  The writing on this show is smart, funny, sassy, and pretty much perfect.  I have no doubt that this television series will help to redefine the common narative.  Precious' Gabrielle offers perfect support; Howard Stern said "Look it, she'll never act again."  Now she has, and she is actually creating a roll.

What we have here is a television show with brilliant writing, brilliant (albeit seasoned) acting, and most importantly, an attention to detail. 

The fact that the producers of The Big C decided to have a directory of photography on staff, to help create this show, proves that they are in for the long run. They are not only planing on creative a great show, they are planning on redefining what we call television.  They know us TV watchers expect a higher quality.  While film excessively delves into the 3-D, we will sit at home and enjoy the brilliance that is compelling television. 

I, personally, LOVE TV.  I think Weeds is a great lead into The Big C.  I think Buffy the Vampire Slayer is the best show on TV, followed by Golden Girls, Cheers, Frasier, MASH, and Mary Tyler Moore.  I think The Big C might ruin all that.

My final point:  This show spells potential with a capital C.

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