Hi guys! How are you holding up?
Believe it or not, I’ve probably been among the few people who didn’t have a lot of free time during this pandemic. Not that I’m one of the heroes who work in healthcare, delivery, and other vital branches of society, but I have been busy enough with writing and graphic design.
I’m not a TV addict, but I am a fan of good movies and series. Having watched a little more TV than usual, I thought I’d make a list with some of the shows I’ve been watching to give you some inspiration.
Twin Peaks – I’ve just discovered this series, and LOVED the first season. Season two was interesting enough, but frankly a little too strange for my taste. I have started season 3 and plan to watch the movie, Fire Walk With Me. Will let you know if I like it.
Columbo – a classic but forever a favorite! How can you not adore the apparently clumsy and forgetful, but sharp and ruthless lieutenant Columbo?
Since we’re at the “classics” chapter, I have to include one of my many favorites: Hitchcock’s Birds. I remember this movie terrified me as a kid, but now I can fully appreciate its qualities. It’s all about tension and atmosphere. A must-see at least once in a lifetime!
Another director I love for his original, controversial and weird style is Roman Polanski. A particular movie of his that I like is The Fearless Vampire Killers, a dark comedy/parody. I discovered it when I was about 14, and I remember one night I set my alarm clock at 3 am so I can watch it on TCM!
You’ve probably realized by now that I’m a dark comedy aficionado and lover of all things satire – even better if you add a touch of gothic. One of my personal favorites of all times is The Addams Family. I love the books, the classic movies, the cartoons – everything!
And back to murder for real, Ted Bundy is an obligatory case study for any author who aspires to write about murder. I’ve watched the latest movie about Bundy, and while Zac Efron gives an exceptional performance, I didn’t care for the focus on Bundy’s humane, charming side. “Nobody wants to be a monster” is a quote I’ve read yesterday in a Lisa Gardner book. I think maybe it’s a matter of choice. Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile (boy, that’s a long title to remember!) is worth seeing, if just to get a different perspective on one of the most controversial serial killers, since the story is told from his girlfriend’s perspective.
I’ll have more – many more – movies and TV shows to share with you, but I’ll end today’s post with Dublin Murders, a recent show made by Starz based on two novels by Tana French. There’s only a first season so far and I don’t know if there will be a second, but personally I liked parts of it. The ending was not very satisfactory, because the series was based on atmosphere and suspense, even more so than the plot and many questions remain unanswered. However, it was good research for my Irish Garda series – I was stunned to discover this series was launched precisely when I was working on my second book starring An Garda Síochána detectives. Who knows? Maybe one day you’ll see a series about my books! 😉
I hope you enjoyed my selection of TV material. See you soon and stay safe! 🙂
Melinda Colt 